Powering the Future: How the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investment
In Hydrogen Hubs Is Transforming America’s Clean Energy Landscape
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Biden-Harris Administration has taken a bold step toward cementing America’s place as a global leader in clean energy innovation with the announcement of up to $2.2 billion in funding for two transformative Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs). These groundbreaking initiatives, part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) ambitious H2Hubs program, promise to bring a clean energy revolution to life, creating tens of thousands of high-paying jobs, slashing emissions, and boosting economic opportunities nationwide.
Hydrogen: A Flexible Energy Game-Changer
Clean hydrogen is not just another energy resource; it’s the future of energy innovation. From fueling heavy-duty vehicles to powering homes and industrial processes, hydrogen offers unparalleled versatility. What makes it truly remarkable is its potential to be produced from a wide array of domestic energy sources—including renewables, nuclear, and fossil fuels with carbon capture—ensuring a steady and resilient energy supply for decades to come.
A Gulf Coast Revolution: The HyVelocity Hub in Texas
At the heart of this clean energy transformation is the Gulf Coast Hydrogen Hub, or HyVelocity Hub, which boasts an unprecedented $1.2 billion in federal funding. Strategically located in Texas, a state renowned for its energy production prowess, this hub is set to leverage the region’s abundant renewable energy and natural gas supply to drive down hydrogen costs. Through a cutting-edge mix of electrolysis and natural gas processing with carbon capture, the HyVelocity Hub aims to achieve two critical goals: reducing harmful emissions and catalyzing regional decarbonization.
The numbers are staggering—this hub alone is projected to create around 45,000 direct jobs over its lifetime, all while contributing to a robust national clean hydrogen network. With Houston positioned as the "Energy Capital of the World," this initiative solidifies its reputation as a trailblazer in the energy transition.
Midwest Momentum: The MachH2 Hydrogen Hub
Not to be outdone, the Midwest Hydrogen Hub (MachH2) represents another leap forward. Backed by $1 billion in federal funding, this hub will harness the Midwest’s diverse energy mix—wind, nuclear, and natural gas—to decarbonize industries like steel, manufacturing, and heavy-duty transportation across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Michigan.
Expected to generate approximately 12,000 direct jobs, MachH2 is a vital link in America’s clean energy future.
Economic Growth Meets
Environmental Justice
What sets the H2Hubs apart isn’t just their scale or technological innovation—it’s their commitment to community. Each hub is required to implement a comprehensive community benefits plan shaped by meaningful engagement with local labor and community organizations. From supporting underserved communities to prioritizing environmental and energy justice, these hubs embody a vision of equitable growth.
The Gulf Coast Hydrogen Hub, in particular, will play a crucial role in delivering benefits to communities across Texas. Its potential to unlock 45,000 new jobs underscores a key pillar of the Biden Administration’s Investing in America agenda: ensuring that no community is left behind in the clean energy transition.
Why This Matters for Houston and Beyond
Houston has long been at the forefront of the energy industry, and initiatives like the HyVelocity Hub further cement its legacy as a leader in innovation. For the readers of Houston Style Magazine, the message is clear: this is more than a technical milestone; it’s an opportunity for Houston to shine as a hub of economic empowerment and environ-
mental stewardship. Moreover, the HyVelocity Hub will serve as a springboard for initiatives like entry-level hydrogen job training programs and community engagement events aimed at increasing awareness of hydrogen’s potential. For underserved communities across the Gulf Coast, this means access to high-quality jobs and pathways to new opportunities in a rapidly growing sector.
A Cleaner, Greener Future is Within Reach
The $2.2 billion investment in these hydrogen hubs is not just about infrastructure—it’s about securing a better future for all Americans. By slashing emissions, creating jobs, and fostering innovation, the H2Hubs are proof that clean energy can be a powerful engine for progress.
For Houston, Texas, and the Gulf Coast region, the HyVelocity Hub isn’t just a project—it’s a promise of prosperity, sustainability, and leadership in the global clean energy race. Let’s embrace this moment as a community and ensure Houston remains a beacon of innovation and opportunity for generations to come.
AMONG THE POWERFUL VOICES WE LOST IN 2024, LOUIS GOSSETT, JR.’S ECHOES LOUDLY
By Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher, National Political Commentator
Iwas my last year as national president of the NAACP, at the end of 2013 Image Awards. I was with my dear friend Louis Gossett, Jr., the actor and activist who won an Oscar for his role in the film “An Officer and a Gentleman.” Lou said to me, “You know, Ben, I’ve been in this racial justice movement my whole life, but you know, sometimes, brother, I feel like we’re fighting over who’s in first class. What we should be doing is looking out the window, because the plane has fallen like 20,000 feet in the last two minutes.”
He saw I was a little confused. So he continued, “The planet is dying. It doesn’t matter who’s in first class on a dead planet.”
Lou’s words have stuck with me for over a decade. It was Lou’s voice echoing in my ear that inspired me to get back into the environmental movement and take my current job as the head of the Sierra Club.
December is the customary month of remembrance. A time of year we take stock; a moment on the calendar when we pause to reflect on the giants we have lost.
Louis Gossett, Jr. is one of those giants. He died this past March.
Lou never shied away from using his platform to fight for people and the planet. Remembering his passion for justice and the path he forged can be a guiding light. His example, like that of scores of other Black leaders we lost in 2024, has a special resonance for America’s Black men and boys. But it is an example that should inspire anyone who sees a situation that their own moral calling tells them needs to change.
As a child, Lou loved superheroes.
When he did not see anyone who looked like him playing his favorite superhero, Superman, he decided to become one –both on and off the screen. The character he portrayed in “An Officer and a Gentleman,” Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley, was a soldier highly decorated for his patriotism. Offscreen Lou was a true patriot himself.
Lou often spoke of the need to focus on the “bigger picture.” He pictured concentric circles as he thought about how people could make a difference and have an
impact in their family, community, country, as well as the world. He founded the Eracism Foundation to promote cultural diversity, historical enrichment, and anti-violence initiatives for young adults, teens and preteens through "Shamba Centers" throughout the country.
Lou contributed one of the autobiographical essays in my book Reach: 40 Black Men Speak on Living, Leading, and Succeeding. In it, he wrote about meeting Nelson Mandela when the South African leader was finally released from prison after 27 years. Lou said Mandela’s message was simple: there is no time to focus on revenge, which is a “self-inflicting disease;” the only thing we have time to focus on is “uplifting ourselves and one another for the bigger picture, which is the salvation of the planet.”
Lou spoke of the values passed on to him and his cousins by their grandmother: “collective responsibility; empathy; being ready, willing and able to help another person when he or she is down.” Those
are values to live by. I can relate. My own grandmother’s wisdom continues to guide me. Her sage advice continues to be one of my mantras in life: "Pessimists are right more often, but optimists win more often. As for me, I'll take winning."
Of course, in addition to Lou, we lost many Black men this year whose lives and work inspired millions. Icons of stage and screen like James Earl Jones and John Amos, historymaking sports legends such as Willie Mays, and titans of the Civil Rights Movement like Rev. James Lawson, whom Dr. King called “the leading theorist and strategist of nonviolence in the world.” We lost Quincy Jones, who not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but was a champion for civil and human rights. And many others.
In my introduction to Reach, I noted that imitation has always been the first step for those seeking to achieve great things. Children pick up sticks to reenact the battles of warrior heroes. Toddlers preach
MAKE YOUR VOICE COUNT: EARLY VOTING BEGINS FOR DECEMBER 14 JOINT RUNOFF ELECTION
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
The clock is ticking, and it’s time for Harris County residents to step up and make their voices heard! Early voting for the much-anticipated December 14 Joint Runoff Election kicks off Monday, December 2, and runs through Tuesday, December 10. This election presents an opportunity to shape leadership in two critical contests:
•City of Baytown, Mayor
•Lone Star College System, Trustee, District 1
Why Your Vote Matters
Runoff elections often see lower voter turnout, but their impact on local leadership is profound. These contests determine who will represent your community and advocate for the issues that matter most to you. As Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth emphasizes, “Runoff elections play a critical role in shaping local leadership. We encourage all eligible voters to make their voices heard.”
Am I Eligible?
Convenient Early Voting Hours
Why wait until Election Day when you can beat the rush? Take advantage of early voting during these convenient dates and times:
For those who prefer the thrill of Election Day voting, polling locations will be open Saturday, December 14, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mark your calendars!
Plan Your Voting Experience
bring one of the seven acceptable forms of photo identification. If obtaining an ID is a challenge, a Reasonable Impediment Declaration with supporting documents will work.
•Be Prepared: Review your sample ballot beforehand. Knowing what’s on the ballot helps you vote with confidence and speed.
to congregations, or sing to crowds, of teddy bears and puppets. Babies step into their parents shoes and try to walk. But we cannot imitate – or draw inspiration from – that which we have never seen, heard, or read about. I hope people continue to learn about my friend Louis Gossett, Jr. and the other giants we lost because the examples they set are surely ones to be imitated.
Lou’s hope was that younger generations grow up to remember that bigger picture of which he spoke. That “instead of talking about the salvation of the Irish or the Jew or the Black, they talk about the salvation of mankind and the planet. I think we can ask for and expect nothing less.” Hear, hear.
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at:
Only voters registered within the specific boundaries of these districts can participate. Not sure if you’re eligible? No worries! Visit HarrisVotes.com to confirm your eligibility and check out a sample ballot. It’s quick, easy, and ensures you’re ready to make an informed decision at the polls.
•Monday, December 2 – Saturday, December
7: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
•Sunday, December 8: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
•Monday, December 9 – Tuesday, December 10: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
To make the process seamless, here are some quick tips:
•Locate Your Polling Place: Find the nearest polling station using the interactive tools at HarrisVotes.com. You can even check wait times!
•Bring Proper ID: Don’t forget to
Spread the Word Houston Style Magazine readers, Elections are a community effort. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to vote early or on Election Day. Let’s ensure every eligible voter in Baytown and the Lone Star College System District 1 makes their voice count. Follow @HarrisVotes on social media for the latest updates and reminders. Together, We Decide Elections are more than dates on a calendar—they’re moments of decision. Let’s take ownership of our communities and shape the future we want to see. Whether you vote early or on Election Day, your participation makes all the difference.
Visit HarrisVotes.com for more details, and let’s make democracy thrive in Harris County!
LOUIS GOSSETT, JR.
In a seamless transition that underscores the enduring spirit of service in Houston's 18th Congressional District, Interim Congresswoman Erica Lee Carter (D-Houston) has stepped into her mother’s shoes with both grace and grit. Elected on November 5th to complete the term of the late, great Sheila Jackson Lee, Lee Carter has wasted no time in ensuring her mother’s unfinished work reaches the legislative finish line.
Taking the oath of office on November 12th in the storied halls of the U.S. Capitol, Lee Carter’s first actions reflect the values and tireless dedication her mother exemplified for nearly three decades in Congress. From amending Title 18 with H.R. 10228 to strengthening penalties for human trafficking in school zones, Lee Carter has already proven herself a formidable advocate for justice and child protection.
A
Legacy Bill for a Cause That Cannot Wait
The newly titled "Sheila Jackson Lee Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act" is a poignant tribute to a woman whose life was dedicated to combating human exploitation. "As a mom and grandmother, this issue was close to my mother’s heart," shared Lee Carter. "This bill is more than legislation—it’s a promise to protect
LOCAL: JACKSON LEE’S LEGACY LIVES ON THROUGH ERICA LEE CARTER’S LEGISLATIVE PUSH
By Burt Levine, Political Editor
our most vulnerable, our children."
The bill, co-sponsored by West Harris County Congressman Michael McCaul, adds five years to federal prison sentences for trafficking offenses occurring within 1,000 feet of schools. McCaul, who had worked closely with Jackson Lee on the Homeland Security Committee, praised the legacy of collaboration. “Human trafficking is an egregious violation of human rights, preying on the most vulnerable among us,” he stated.
Statistics from Texas paint a sobering picture, with over 80,000 children known to be victims of trafficking. Lee
giveaways, and connecting with constituents even through the Thanksgiving holiday. Every handshake and event echo Jackson Lee’s philosophy of public service being rooted in direct connection with the people. The District's Future in Strong Hands
As Lee Carter prepares to hand the reins to former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner in January, the 18th Congressional District remains steeped in its storied history. From Barbara Jordan’s groundbreaking leadership to the passion of Mickey Leland, Craig Washington, and Sheila Jackson Lee, Turner will inherit a legacy of transformative advocacy.
Carter’s passionate drive to push this legislation reflects her commitment to carrying forward her mother’s unyielding advocacy More Than a
Seat—A Mission
But Lee Carter’s ambition doesn’t stop at human trafficking legislation. She is also championing bills her mother introduced to enhance security for federal judges—a stark reminder of the risks public servants face. “The work my mother started is far from over, and I intend to see it through,” she said.
Her relentless schedule has mirrored her mother’s tradition of community engagement, attending parades, turkey
For now, Houston Style Magazine readers and the people of Houston can rest assured that the fight for justice continues. Erica Lee Carter is proving that while her mother’s seat may now hold a new name, its commitment to serving the community remains steadfast.
In honoring the memory of Sheila Jackson Lee, her daughter has shown that legacies don’t just live on—they inspire action.
www.StyleMagazine.com
IPOLITICS: A FATHER’S LOVE, A PRESIDENT’S DILEMMA: BIDEN’S BOLD
MOVE TO PARDON HUNTER
By Francis Page Jr., Editor for
n a historic and emotionally charged decision, President Joe Biden chose to exercise his presidential pardon power, granting clemency to his son, Hunter Biden, amid controversies surrounding gun and tax convictions. For the first time in modern history, a sitting president has pardoned a close family member, blending the personal and political in an extraordinary display of fatherly devotion and moral conviction.
The decision, covering offenses dating back to 2014, has stirred a maelstrom of political discourse. Critics have been quick to pounce, calling it an abuse of power, while supporters view it as a brave act of integrity. At the heart of this moment lies a father torn between two worlds: his unwavering love for his son and his solemn duty to uphold justice.
A Pardon Rooted in Compassion and Controversy
Hunter Biden, a man who has battled addiction, public scrutiny, and relentless political attacks, found himself at the center of high-profile legal proceedings. Convicted on charges stemming from a 2018 gun purchase and tax-related issues, he faced an uncertain future despite having paid back over $1.4 million in taxes, including penalties.
President Biden, in his official statement, underscored what he viewed as selective
prosecution driven by partisan politics. “No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son – and that is wrong,” Biden asserted. This statement resonates deeply in a polarized America, where the line between justice and political vendetta often seems blurred.
A Tale of Redemption
The pardon has also drawn attention to Hunter’s five-and-a-half years of sobriety, a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.
pointed out, “Without aggravating factors like use in a crime or straw purchasing, people are almost never brought to trial on felony charges solely for how they filled out a gun form.”
The narrative of selective prosecution is a stark reminder of the challenges ordinary citizens face when justice is weaponized. For the Black and Brown communities of Houston, this moment is a poignant reflection of systemic inequalities that permeate the justice system. Biden’s act of clemency resonates beyond the personal, sparking broader discussions about fairness and reform.
The Legacy of a Decision
Once vilified in the media, Hunter’s journey reflects the universal struggles of those battling addiction. For President Biden, this decision is as much about justice as it is about hope— hope for a second chance, hope for redemption, and hope for healing.
Reactions Across the Spectrum
As expected, the move has sparked reactions from all corners of the political landscape. While critics argue it undermines the impartiality of the justice system, supporters highlight the glaring disparities in how similar cases are handled. The president’s statement
In pardoning his son, Biden has etched his name into history as a president who dared to prioritize family and justice over political convenience. While the long-term political ramifications remain uncertain, this decision offers a rare glimpse into the complexities of leadership and the enduring power of love.
At its core, this act is not just about Hunter Biden or even the Biden family. It’s about a nation grappling with the intersection of justice, politics, and humanity. In a time of division, Biden’s decision challenges us to consider the values that unite us—family, compassion, and the pursuit of a fairer world.
MENTERTAINMENT: GRAND
NATIONAL TOUR: KENDRICK LAMAR AND SZA SET TO DOMINATE THE STAGE IN 2024!
By Francis Page Jr., Editor for
ark your calendars, Houston! The musical heavyweights Kendrick Lamar and SZA are joining forces for the highly anticipated Grand National Tour. Presented by Live Nation, pgLang, and Top Dawg Entertainment, this tour promises to electrify 19 stadiums across North America in 2024.
With stops at iconic venues, including Houston’s very own NRG Stadium on Wednesday, April 23rd, this is not just a concert – it’s a cultural phenomenon waiting to happen. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Kendrick’s thought-provoking lyricism or SZA’s soulful melodies, this collaboration is a dream come true.
The Heartbeat of the Tour
The Grand National Tour isn’t just about music; it’s about unity, inspiration, and a celebration of artistry. Kendrick Lamar, known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning storytelling, continues to set the bar for creativity and innovation. Meanwhile, SZA, riding high on the success of her latest album, is poised to bring her unique blend of R&B and neo-soul to audiences worldwide. Both artists have expressed their excitement, with SZA describing the tour as "a journey of love, art, and connection." Kendrick added, "We’re bringing the soul of the studio to the heart of your city."
always been a hub for music and culture, and this tour stop is sure to reinforce that legacy. With the energy and passion of Kendrick and
SZA, NRG Stadium will transform into a haven of rhythm and lyrics, uniting fans from all walks of life. Whether you’re in the heart of the action or soaking it all in from the stands, this night will be unforgettable. Get Your Tickets! Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, December 6th at 10 AM (local time) via grandnationaltour.com. But wait – exclusive presale opportunities are available for Cash App Visa Card users starting Wednesday, December 4th at 10 AM (local time). This presale gives you early access to secure your spot and enjoy exclusive perks like 20% off official tour merchandise purchased on-site. Simply use the first nine digits of your Cash App Card to unlock the presale! For all the details on presales and exclusive perks, visit cash.app/exclusives/kendrickandsza.
Why the Grand National Tour Matters
The Grand National Tour isn’t just another concert series – it’s a testament to the power of music in bringing people together. At a time when the world craves unity, Kendrick and SZA remind us of the beauty in shared experiences. Their artistry transcends boundaries, offering a night of hope, joy, and raw talent. Read
Houston in the Spotlight Houston fans, prepare for a night to remember at NRG Stadium! The city has
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Tracie Payne, Zarina Poole & Dr. Bibb
Khambrell Marshall, Zarina Poole & Keith Garvin
Intimacy —it’s that magical connection that binds us together, a dance of trust, shared laughter, and heartfelt conversations. But in a world hyper-focused on sex as the ultimate expression of closeness, many forget that intimacy doesn’t need a bedroom—it thrives in the small, thoughtful moments. Let’s break it down: intimacy is not the sundae; it’s the cherry on top, the extra sparkle that makes everything more meaningful.
Here are 6 to 9 creative and impactful ways to nurture intimacy without ever stepping into sexual territory. Buckle up, Houston, because this list will have you rethinking what it means to connect deeply.
1. Emotional Intimacy: Hearts Over Hands Forget about swiping right and dive into meaningful conversations. Want to bond? Share stories from your childhood, laugh over your most embarrassing moments, or reveal your biggest dreams. Emotional intimacy is about learning each other’s hearts and minds, falling in love with the quirks that make your partner uniquely them. Pro tip: next time you’re out for ice cream, let the conversation flow like a Netflix series—no interruptions, no phones.
2. Experiential Intimacy: Create Memories, Not Just Moments
HEALTH: 6 TO 9 WAYS TO BE INTIMATE WITHOUT SEX :
BUILDING DEEPER CONNECTIONS BEYOND THE PHYSICAL
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Netflix and chill? Nah, let’s make it hike and thrill. Whether it’s walking along Galveston beach, cooking a surprise dinner, or skydiving (if you’re the adventurous type), experiential intimacy is about crafting unforgettable memories. Want bonus points?
Think outside the box: organize a karaoke date or take a painting class together. After all, the couple that laughs (and paints badly) together, stays together.
3. Spiritual Intimacy: Souls in Sync
Let’s talk about that vibe—the one that comes from being equally yoked in spirit. Whether you’re praying together, discussing life’s big questions under a canopy of stars, or exchanging daily affirmations, spiritual intimacy connects you at your core. Don’t believe us? Try it. There’s something irresistibly attractive about someone who isn’t afraid to show their faith—or their love for the universe’s mysteries.
4.Physical Intimacy: The Power of Touch
Here’s the deal: physical intimacy isn’t about the big stuff—it’s the little things that matter. Holding hands on a sunny walk through Discovery Green, a comforting hug after a long day, or a simple forehead kiss can work wonders. Did you know holding hands reduces stress and releases feel-good hormones? It’s science-backed intimacy, folks, and it’s free.
5. Intellectual Intimacy: Minds That Click
Ever geek out with someone and feel that spark? Intellectual intimacy is all about vibing on ideas—whether it’s debating your favorite films, discussing social issues, or brainstorming world domination (just kidding… or not). Get curious about each other’s interests, share your favorite reads, and exchange ideas that stimulate your minds and hearts alike.
6. Creative Intimacy: Building Something Beautiful Together
Imagine writing a poem together, planting a garden, or even crafting a vision board for your future. Creative intimacy is like a trust fall for your artistic side—messy, authentic, and full of love. Whether you’re harmonizing on a duet or painting mugs for
each other, creativity is intimacy at its most colorful.
7. Community Intimacy: Giving Back as a Duo
There’s something deeply fulfilling about making a difference—together. Volunteer at a local shelter, join a cleanup drive, or organize a charity bake sale. Building intimacy isn’t just about looking inward; it’s about facing outward, handin-hand, and showing the world you’re a power couple with a purpose.
8. Digital Intimacy: Connecting Across the Screen
Long-distance? No problem. Send each other funny memes, create collaborative playlists, or have late-night FaceTime calls that go beyond “how was your day?” Technology doesn’t have to be a barrier; it can be the bridge that brings you closer.
9. Playful Intimacy: Because Love Should Be Fun
Probiotics are your gut’s best friend. By supporting healthy bacteria, they help balance your digestive system and reduce acid reflux triggers. Add yogurt, kefir, or a high-quality probiotic supplement to your routine for long-term benefits.
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Jaguar's Bold Leap Into the Future: A Controversial Reimagination That Dares to "Copy Nothing"
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for
Jaguar, the legendary British automaker, is known for redefining luxury and sophistication in the automotive industry. Now, it's shifting gears to an electrified future with its jaw-dropping Type 00 concept car—revealed during the glitz and glamour of Miami Art Week. But this isn’t just a story about a car; it’s a story about evolution, disruption, and a brand daring to rewrite its destiny.
The Type 00: A Design That's Anything But Ordinary Clad in Miami Pink and London Blue, the Type 00 isn’t merely a vehicle— it’s a bold artistic statement. With its ultra-long bonnet, fastback profile, and 23-inch alloy wheels, this concept car is turning heads worldwide. But Jaguar insists that the Type 00 is about more than looks; it’s a preview of the brand’s pivot to electric luxury vehicles.
The Miami Pink color pays homage to the city’s vibrant Art Deco architecture, while London Blue serves as a nod to Jaguar's British roots. This dual-tone artistry encapsulates Jaguar’s past and its ambition for the future.
And while the Type 00 will never hit production lines, it has achieved its purpose—sparking heated debates and putting Jaguar firmly back in the spotlight.
Divided Opinions: Genius or Overreach?
Not everyone is applauding Jaguar’s audacious design. Social media is ablaze with polarized reactions. Some call the Type 00 “stunning” and “a bold masterpiece,” while others have dismissed it as “overpriced and overstyled.” Elon Musk himself weighed in with a cheeky critique, asking, “Do you sell cars?”
Yet, Jaguar’s Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern isn’t fazed by the criticism. “This isn’t about pleasing everyone,” he asserts. “It’s about restoring Jaguar’s luxury allure while making it resonate with contemporary audiences.”
A Brand Reimagined: The Road to 2026
The unveiling of the Type 00 isn’t an isolated event—it’s part of Jaguar’s comprehensive rebranding. The automaker has retired its iconic leaping cat badge in favor of a minimalist new logo, described as a “celebration of modernism.” Its tagline, “Copy Nothing,” underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation and individuality.
Jaguar has also revealed plans for a four-door electric grand tourer, set to debut in 2025. With a price tag of $152,400, it targets the high-end luxury market, competing with the likes of Tesla and Aston Martin.
“We’re not building cars for everyone,” explains Jaguar CEO Rawdon Glover. “Our focus is on creating vehicles that people aspire to own.”
Jaguar’s Bold Gamble: Risky, Yet Necessary
This reinvention comes at a critical time for Jaguar. The brand’s sales have plummeted from 180,000 units in 2018 to just 67,000 last year. The decision to stop selling new Jaguar cars in the UK until 2026 is part of a deliberate strategy to recalibrate its offerings and build anticipation.
By embracing electric vehicles and targeting a younger, more affluent demographic, Jaguar hopes to ensure its relevance—and profitability—for the next century.
Art Meets Automotive: A Future Worth Watching
Love it or hate it, Jaguar’s rebrand is undeniably bold. The Type 00 concept car, with its fusion of heritage and futurism, serves as a statement piece for a brand that refuses to blend into the crowd.
Jaguar’s transformation into an electric-only, ultra-luxury automaker may alienate some traditionalists, but it also opens the door to a new era of innovation and elegance. For now, the world will have to wait until 2025 to see if this gamble pays off.
For readers of Houston Style Magazine, Jaguar’s story is a testament to resilience and reinvention. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a lover of bold designs, or simply intrigued by the shifting tides of luxury markets, Jaguar’s journey offers lessons in staying relevant while honoring the past.
With the hashtag-friendly tagline #CopyNothing, Jaguar’s rebranding is destined to spark conversations far beyond the automotive world. Keep following Houston Style Magazine for more updates on the bold moves shaping the future of luxury.
H-E-B, Texas’s beloved grocery chain, continues to redefine community support with its latest announcement: a groundbreaking $1 million donation to Austin Habitat for Humanity and a flurry of new store openings and renovations across the Austin area. As a steadfast pillar of community growth, H-E-B is proving yet again that business can be a powerful force for good.
A Store for Every Neighborhood
The East Austin community is abuzz with excitement as H-E-B reveals plans for a brand-new store at McKinney Falls Parkway and William Cannon. Scheduled to break ground next year, the store promises to transform an underserved area into a bustling hub for both commerce and community. With this project and several others in the pipeline, H-E-B isn’t just opening stores — it’s opening opportunities.
In fact, this year alone, H-E-B has committed to 12 major Austin-area projects, including six new stores and six renovations. This robust growth initiative will not only elevate the shopping experience but also generate over
STATE:
H-E-B'S BOLD EXPANSION: SUPPORTING
GROWTH AND AFFORDABLE LIVING IN AUSTIN
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
4,000 local jobs. From the newly opened third Pflugerville location featuring True Texas BBQ to a state-of-the-art South Congress store slated to open in December, H-E-B is leaving no corner of the region untouched.
A Commitment to Affordable Housing
Amid Austin’s skyrocketing housing market, H-E-B’s $1 million donation to Austin Habitat for Humanity is a game-changer. The funds will directly support two major affordable housing projects: Persimmon Point, which will offer 126 units, and Whisper Valley, with nearly 50 single-family homes.
“This isn’t just a financial contribution; it’s a lifeline for hardworking families striving for stability and security,” said Michele Anderson,
“As a company rooted in Texas, we take immense pride in supporting the places where our customers and employees live, work, and thrive,” said Cathy Harm, H-E-B’s Senior Vice President for the Central Texas Region.
A Legacy of Service
Since its founding in 1905, H-E-B has been more than a grocery chain — it’s been a family member, a neighbor, and a champion for progress. As the company unveils its ambitious plans for Austin, one thing is clear: H-E-B is here to stay, and it’s here to make a difference.
Houston is once again on the hunt for its next Poet Laureate, a role that beautifully marries the city’s vibrant culture with the universal language of poetry. If words are your superpower, now’s the time to wield them and inspire a city that thrives on creativity and community.
ENTERTAINMENT: HOUSTON’S NEXT POET
AN INVITATION
hood-focused anthology, or performances that celebrate Houston’s diverse tapestry, the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination.
What It Takes to Be the Next Poet Laureate
CEO of Austin Habitat for Humanity. “H-E-B’s investment empowers us to dream bigger and build stronger communities.”
These efforts couldn’t come at a better time. Austin's Eastern Crescent, a rapidly growing region, is grappling with a lack of affordable housing. By aligning its business strategy with community needs, H-E-B is setting a new standard for corporate responsibility.
Building a Future Together
H-E-B’s vision extends far beyond its storefronts. Over the past five years, the company has donated nearly $50 million to Austin-area nonprofits. From education to housing, H-EB's generosity touches nearly every facet of community life.
With every new store and every dollar donated, H-E-B is building more than shelves and aisles. It’s building stronger neighborhoods, brighter futures, and a legacy of giving that Austin and the entire state of Texas can be proud of. Closing Thoughts
H-E-B’s unwavering commitment to innovation and community support is a masterclass in how businesses can drive meaningful change. As Austin continues to grow, H-E-B’s investments in affordable housing, job creation, and store improvements serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity.
So the next time you walk through an H-E-B, remember: every cart, every aisle, and every checkout counter is part of a bigger story — one where Texans uplift each other and thrive together.
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For over a decade, the Poet Laureate program has been a beacon of artistic expression in Houston, elevating voices that reflect our city's diversity and resilience. This prestigious two-year appointment isn’t just a title—it’s a chance to ignite imaginations, connect communities, and showcase the transformative power of poetry.
A Platform for Creativity and Connection
Past Poet Laureates have left indelible marks on Houston's cultural landscape. From creating anthologies to engaging underserved communities through social media and live workshops, the role is a springboard for innovation. The current Poet Laureate, Aris Kian Brown, has set a high bar with her visionary project, “Space for Us: Afrofuturism and the Poetic Imagination,” a multidisciplinary masterpiece that fuses Black historical archives, multilingual poetry, and community stories to envision a liberated future.
Now, it’s your turn to bring your poetic vision to life. Whether it’s through a social media poetry campaign, a neighbor-
This isn’t just about penning beautiful verses—it’s about being a cultural ambassador for Houston. To qualify, applicants must have a strong connection to the city, a solid body of published work, and a passion for engaging with communities through poetry. Whether you’ve published a full-length book, been featured in esteemed literary journals, or ranked in national poetry slams, your unique voice and perspective could make you Houston’s next poetic torchbearer.
Here’s what you need to prepare:
A community outreach proposal that redefines how poetry can impact lives.
A writing sample (10–15 pages) showcasing your best work.
A brief biography that tells your story in 250 words.
A concise résumé or CV highlighting your accomplishments.
The chosen Poet Laureate will receive an honorarium of $20,000 over two years and will be tasked with delivering eight virtual community workshops, mentoring the Youth Poet Laureate, and
curating content for the Poet Laureate’s social media platforms.
How to Apply
Applications and nominations are due by December 11, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.
CST. Visit the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs to review the full guidelines and submit your application. Don’t wait—Houston is eager to celebrate its next literary star! Why Houston Style Magazine Cares
At Houston Style Magazine, we celebrate the voices that shape our city.
Poetry is more than an art form—it’s a bridge that connects us all. We encourage our readers, young and old, to support and participate in this transformative initiative. Share this opportunity widely and help us spotlight the talent that makes Houston a cultural powerhouse.
For further details, visit the application portal here. Let’s write Houston’s next chapter together—one poem at a time.
