The 47th Annual “Original” Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade will take place on Monday, January 20, 2025, in Downtown Houston, beginning at the corner of Smith and McKinney in front of City Hall. It is open to the public, and this year’s theme, “In a diverse society, we must foster acceptance, maintain human dignity, and safeguard fundamental human rights,” invites Houstonians to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and the universal values of equality, justice, and compassion.
Organized by the Black Heritage Society, Inc., in collaboration with the City of Houston, the event is set to honor the memory and mission of Dr. King, who dedicated his life to nonviolence, equality, and fighting for civil rights. This year’s parade features Rev. Dr. Derek King, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s nephew, who brings insight into the power of human relationships and inclusivity. As Grand Marshal, he exemplifies Dr. King’s principles of service, love, and advocacy for a better world.
Additionally, Nate Griffin , a prominent figure and sports anchor at Fox Houston, serves as Co-Grand Marshal. Griffin, a longtime advocate for kindness and positive community impact, has been instrumental in shaping Houston’s sports media landscape. His efforts to promote respect and unity align with the spirit of Dr. King’s vision for a united society.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Festival and Children’s Day of Service at Hermann Park Square will also be a cornerstone of the festivities. Visitors can enjoy a day of entertainment, music, food vendors, and cultural celebrations while engaging in activities focused on civic responsibility, including lessons on voting, MLK-themed games, and other meaningful events designed to inspire future leaders.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this monumental event!
The parade will feature lively marching bands from local schools such as Evan Worthing, Jack Yates, and Rice University’s Marching Owl Band, adding to the vibrant celebration of Dr. King’s legacy. Sponsors like United Airlines, HEB, Stellar Bank, and ABC 13 have made this event possible, along with generous community support from local churches and organizations.
Schedule of Activities:
• January 15, 2025
Press Conference: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm at The Historic St. John Missionary Baptist Church , 2702 Emancipation, Houston, Texas 77004
• January 18, 2025
Black Heritage Society Soiree at Hotel ICON , Guest speaker: Dr. Tamika Cross
- Tickets selling quickly!
Public Invitation : SRI Ashtalakshmi Temple
• January 19, 2025
City-Wide Fellowship Service: Rev. Dr. Derek King at The Community of Faith - Bishop James Dixon II, open to the public
• January 20, 2025
47th Original MLK Jr. Parade Day in Downtown Houston
MLK Festival and Children’s Day of Service at Hermann Park Square - open to the public
Special events leading up to the parade include the Black Heritage Society Soiree (January 18, 2025) featuring keynote speaker Dr. Tamika Cross, and a citywide fellowship service led by Rev. Dr. Derek King. For a full schedule of events, visit the Black Heritage Society’s website and join us in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Support our mission of love, unity, and transformation! Your participation helps fund community projects, including education and youth outreach programs. For ticket information and to purchase tickets:
• Black Heritage Soiree: Click here to purchase tickets
• Festival Vendor Booth & Food Truck : Click here to reserve a booth
Together, we can carry the torch of Dr. King’s vision into the future, ensuring that his dream of an inclusive and compassionate society remains alive for generations to come.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered on August 28, 1963, at the LincolnMemorial,remainsoneofthe most iconic addresses in American history. In this speech, King called foranendtoracism,segregation,and discriminationwhileurgingthenation tohonorthepromisesoffreedomand equalityoutlinedintheU.S.Constitution.HeacknowledgedthedeepstrugglesofAfricanAmericansandtheunfulfilledpromisesofliberty,justice, andequalitythathadbeendeniedto them for so long.
King's dream was a vision of a world where people would not be judged by the color of their skin but bythecontentoftheircharacter.He spokeofafuturewhereracialharmony and brotherhood would prevail, with all people sharing in the blessings of liberty. He dreamt of a society where justice would roll down like waters and righteousness like a mightystream,wherechildrenofall raceswouldlivetogetherinpeaceand unity.
He emphasized the urgent needforchangeandtheimportanceof takingactionthroughpeaceful,nonviolent means. King reminded his audiencethatthestruggleforcivilrights could not be postponed, as African Americans had already waited too long for justice. His speech echoed thenecessityofcontinuingthefight, notthroughhatred,butthroughlove, faith, and nonviolent resistance. Ultimately, King's words called on Americans to join together,regardlessofraceorbackground, to ensure that freedom, justice, and equalitywouldbecomearealityfor all. His vision continues to inspire movementsforjustice,equality,and humanrightsaroundtheworld,reinforcing the enduring power of hope, unity, and collective action.
COMMENTARY
It is official: 2024 was the hottest year on record. Temperatures not only surpassed 2023 as the previous hottest year, they leapt – for the first time – past the goal set in the Paris Climate Agreement of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Whether you turn on the TV to news of the most recent super storm or raging wildfire, or can see these disasters firsthand just by looking outside, the climate crisis is all around us.
If there was ever a single worst time in history to undermine climate science and America’s climate leadership, it is right now. So it is an outrage that incoming President Donald Trump’s picks for key administration posts signal his intent to do just that.
And the clear pro-fossil fuel, anti-science agenda extends beyond Trump’s picks for the positions most obviously related to climate policy. We know that nominations like fossil fuel industry shill Lee Zeldin to lead the Environmental Protection Agency and oil executive Christ Wright as head of the Department of Energy spell disaster for the lives and livelihoods, and health and wealth, of countless communities
THE TIMING COULDN"T BE WORSE.
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
and working families. But those are not the only foxes in the henhouse.
Case in point: Russel Vought, Trump’s choice to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Vought is an architect of the notorious Project 2025 –the authoritarian playbook for decimating democratic institutions and checks and balances to serve up an extreme far-right agenda. Vought authored a chapter on the Executive Office, outlining ways Trump could increase his power. As head of OMB, Vought would oversee the office tasked with overseeing “the implementation of the pres
ident’s vision across the Executive Branch.” It is an immensely powerful office with influence over a vast amount of the federal government. And Vought has climate policy squarely in his sights.
Vought has laid out his desire to attack civil servants who work to protect public health and address the climate crisis, saying, “When they wake up in the morning, we want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains. We want their funding to be shut down so that the EPA can't do all of the rules against our energy industry because they
have no bandwidth financially to do so. We want to put them in trauma.”
In his Project 2025 chapter, Vought suggests efforts to address climate change are merely “social engineering” and promotes reshaping the US Global Change Research Program (USGCRP). Now, the sharp edge of this particular attack has become clear with reporting that Vought seeks to undermine the National Climate Assessment, which is produced by the USGCRP. The Assessment is the foundational report used by the federal government for policies addressing or related to climate change, the product of research by hundreds of scientists and a key to US climate leadership worldwide. Vought is calling for more White House control of the Assessment, and giving OMB a role in selecting the scientists who produce the report.
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at:
It'a a new dawn for Texans aged 50 and older. AARP Texas has unveiled a bold and transformative agenda for the 89th Texas Legislature, addressing the pressing issues that matter most to older adults and their families. From ensuring reliable backup power in long-term care facilities to tackling elder fraud, the 2025 legislative priorities are poised to create a safer, healthier, and more financially secure future for aging Texans.
Tina Tran, AARP Texas Director, captured the essence of this mission
AARP Texas 2025 Legislative Priorities: Building a Better Future for Aging Texans
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
perfectly: “Our 2025 legislative priorities involve measures to prevent and fight elder exploitation and fraud, strengthen emergency response and preparedness, improve quality and access to healthcare and longterm care, and bolster financial security for Texans. AARP staff and volunteers are eager to engage with Texas’ elected leaders on a journey toward improving the lives of older Texans and their families for both the needs of today and the years ahead.”
Here’s how AARP Texas plans to champion a brighter tomorrow for Texans over 50:
Battling Elder Exploitation and Fraud:
Protecting What Matters Most Fraud knows no boundaries, and older adults often bear the brunt of these malicious schemes. With financial impacts that can devastate lives, AARP Texas is advocating for:
•Enhanced consumer protections for solar panel contracts and cryptocurrency transactions.
•Stricter measures against scams like identity theft, spoofing, and deed theft.
•Greater resources for law enforcement to combat elder abuse and financial crimes.
Tina Tran emphasizes, “Fraud isn’t
• Health Screenings – Blood pressure – Cervical cancer
just a crime; it’s a betrayal of trust. We’re determined to shield Texans from scams that threaten their peace of mind.”
Strengthening Emergency Response: Powering Through the Storm Natural disasters disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, with older adults often representing the majority of fatalities. AARP Texas is calling for:
•Mandatory on-site backup power in long-term care facilities.
•Strengthened transmission infrastructure to prevent power disruptions.
•Improved efficiency of STEAR (State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry).
Tran notes, “When disaster strikes, preparation saves lives. These measures will ensure our seniors aren’t left in the dark— literally and figuratively.”
Transforming Healthcare and Long-Term Care: A Lifeline for Many Affordable, quality healthcare remains a cornerstone of AARP’s advocacy. For 2025, the organization is pushing for:
•Greater transparency in nursing home funding and ownership.
•Reduced prescription drug costs.
•Increased access to medical and
• Immunizations
– Pediatrics*
– Adults (Flu and COVID)
• Financial Assistance Information Appointments needed for free cervical cancer, HPV and mammogram screenings. Call 281-454-0913 today to schedule.
*Immunizations are only for eligible children, based on Texas Vaccines for Children Program guidelines. Children receiving a vaccine must meet one of these requirements: 18 years of age or younger, American Indian or Alaskan native, enrolled in Medicaid or does not have health insurance.
mental health care for older adults.
•Expanded support for Texas’ direct care workforce.
•Flexibility in Medical Power of Attorney forms.
•Mandated minimum staffing ratios in Alzheimer’s care facilities.
“Healthcare is a basic right, not a privilege,” Tran asserts. “We’re fighting to make quality care accessible to all Texans.”
Securing Financial Stability:
Easing the Burden
Living on a fixed income shouldn’t mean sacrificing stability. AARP Texas aims to:
•Advocate for affordable housing and homeowners insurance.
•Push for reliable, cost-efficient utilities.
•Expand access to public benefits and fair consumer credit.
•Increase public transportation options in rural areas.
In an inspiring step toward combating the opioid epidemic, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis announced his full support for the Commissioners Court's approval of a $1 million grant to the African American Male Wellness Agency. This bold initiative, funded by the Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reflects the county’s unwavering commitment to addressing the escalating opioid crisis among Black men in Harris County.
A Public Health Emergency Demanding Action
“The overdose epidemic is a public health emergency that’s hitting Harris County hard, especially in our most vulnerable neighborhoods,” Commissioner Ellis passionately stated. “This grant to the African American Male Wellness Agency underscores our determination to tackle this crisis head-on. By leveraging a grassroots, community-based approach, we can reverse this devastating trend and save countless lives.”
Harris County’s own data underscores the urgency of this issue. Between 2018 and 2022, Black non-Hispanic adults witnessed a staggering 375% increase in substance-related healthcare facility visits,
HEALTH: A LIFELINE FOR THE COMMUNITY: COMMISSIONER ELLIS CHAMPIONS $1M OPIOID
PREVENTION GRANT FOR BLACK MEN
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
while the community also endured a 79.3% spike in substance-involved deaths. These statistics reveal an unsettling reality: African American men are disproportionately affected, making targeted interventions not only necessary but vital.
Grassroots Solutions for a Complex Crisis
The African American Male Wellness Agency, recognized for its strong community roots and collaborative history with OD2A, has been tasked with leading this life-saving charge. Through the grant, the agency will deploy a range of strategies, including:
Recovery Coaching: Providing individualized support to those grappling with addiction.
Naloxone Distribution: Ensuring access to the life-saving medicine that reverses opioid overdoses.
Community Engagement: Tailored outreach efforts in high-risk areas to foster trust and encourage participation.
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) will complement these efforts by offering technical assistance, data-driven insights, and continuous tracking to ensure the program’s effectiveness. Moreover, HCPH has committed to awarding additional
partnerships to reach diverse demographic groups, ensuring that no community is left behind.
A Collective Call to Action
Commissioner Ellis’s leadership exemplifies how public officials can champion transformative change. His dedication to supporting initiatives like this reflects his vision for a healthier, more equitable Harris County. "Working together, we can reverse this trend and save lives," Ellis affirmed.
The $1 million grant is more than just funding—it’s a lifeline. It’s a testament to the power of community, data, and collaboration in addressing public health crises. As the African American Male Wellness Agency rolls out its programs, hope is rekindled for families affected by the epidemic.
Engaging Houston Style Magazine Readers
At Houston Style Magazine, we recognize the gravity of this initiative. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about lives, families, and futures. As the African American Male Wellness Agency embarks on this critical journey, we encourage our readers to spread awareness, advocate for resources, and support organizations striving to make a difference.
By addressing this public health emergency with determination and compassion, Harris County is setting an example for communities nationwide. Let’s stand together in support of this vital work.
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025
LUNCHEON 11:45AM - 1:30PM
BUSINESS EXPO 10:00AM - 3:00PM
MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOUSTON 1777 WALKER STREET
HOUSTON, TX 77010 2025 ANNUAL AWARDS GALA
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2025
6:00PM - 11:00PM
THOMPSON HOUSTON 1711 ALLEN PARKWAY
HOUSTON, TX 77019
Sponsorship opportunities available (713) 644-7070 | info@houstonhispanicchamber.com www.houstonhispanicchamber.com
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Leader of Houston’s New Majority®
Photos By Francis Page, Jr. - #TeamStyleMag – Photography
U.S. Congressman – Sylvester Turner
U.S. Congresswoman – Lizzie Fletcher
Texas State Senator - Molly Cook
Rev Ralph West – Church Without Walls
U.S. Federal Judge – Alfred Bennett Swearing In Congressman – Sylvester Turner
Musical Solo Selection – Treva Jones
Photos By Francis Page, Jr. - #TeamStyleMag – Photography
U.S. Congressman – Al Green
Harris County Judge - Lina Hidalgo
Harris County Commissioner - Rodney Ellis
Houston City Council - Abbie Kamin National Anthem Solo – Earnest Pugh Prayer - Rev. Miguel Solorzano
Photos By Cindy Clifford - The Clifford Group – Photography
HC Attorney – Christian Menefee
Harris County Judge - Lina Hidalgo
Christian Menefee & Judge George Hanks, Jr.
Cindy Clifford & Christian Menefee
Teneshia, Christian & Tiffany
Congresswoman – Jasmine Crockett
If you're caring for someone you love and struggling to find support, AARP and United Way have teamed up to help you get AARP family caregiving resources through your local 211. Call 211* to connect with a 211 specialist in your community who can help – for free –find AARP caregiving resources for things like managing finances, transportation needs, and more. 211 specialists are ready to listen, offer support and help you find answers.
AUTO: FLO RIDA SHINES BRIGHT AT THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW GALA
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Motor City roared to life Friday night at the Detroit Auto Show’s Charity Preview Gala, and it wasn’t just the cars stealing the show. This year, Flo Rida and an entourage of surprises revved up the festivities, transforming the prestigious event into what attendees are calling “t/he most electrifying gala in Detroit Auto Show history.”
Turbocharged Entertainment: Flo Rida at Full Throttle
From the moment Flo Rida hit the stage, the energy in Huntington Place shifted into overdrive. His 75-minute set was an unforgettable mix of chart-topping hits, dynamic showmanship, and interactive moments that blurred the line between performer and audience. Who else but Flo Rida could get tuxedo-clad attendees onstage, sipping tequila shots, and dancing like it was a Miami nightclub? From the anthemic beats of “Low” to the soaring hooks of “Good Feeling,” the Miami native reminded everyone why his music ruled the airwaves and dance floors from 2008 to 2015.
And if you thought it couldn’t get any wilder, think again. Enter Flavor Flav, the hip-hop icon himself, who surprised the crowd with a snippet of Public Enemy’s “911 Is a Joke” before donning his hype-man hat for Flo Rida’s high-octane set. The legendary entertainer added his own brand of charisma, ensuring the night would be talked about for years to come.
Celebrity Cameos Galore
It wouldn’t be a Motor City celebration without a few unexpected guests. Detroit Lions All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph set the stage, quite literally, hyping the crowd with a highlight reel and a walk-on to Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” Urban legend White Boy Rick, aka Richard Wershe Jr., brought his signature swagger, capturing selfie moments and raising a toast during the smash hit “G.D.F.R.”
Even Monica Conyers, a former Detroit City Council member, joined in the fun. She and a throng of other fans took to the stage to dance along to “Low,” adding a touch of humor and spontaneity to an already electric atmosphere.
A New Era for the Detroit Auto Show
While the Detroit Auto Show has long been synonymous with innovation and prestige, this year’s gala injected a fresh dose of cultural flair. Flo Rida’s hip-hop beats may have been a bold departure from tradition, but they symbolized the event’s evolving spirit—a nod to Detroit’s ever-changing, ever-resilient identity.
As the night closed with a rousing rendition of “What a Night,” Flo Rida and Flavor Flav dove into the crowd, sharing fist bumps and selfies with fans. It was a communal moment that captured the essence of Detroit: a city built on hard work, creativity, and unshakable pride.
The Afterparty That Never Stopped
Of course, no event is perfect. While the music left attendees buzzing, the coat check at Huntington Place became its own saga, with hours-long waits testing the patience of even the most exuberant partygoers. But for most, the magic of the evening far outweighed the minor inconvenience of navigating the snowy streets afterward.
Rev Your Engines for More!
The Detroit Auto Show officially opened to the public on Saturday, January 10, and runs through Monday, January 20th, promising days of automotive marvels, futuristic concepts, and hands-on experiences. Tickets are priced affordably at $10-$20, ensuring accessibility for families, car enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike.
Don’t just take our word for it—head to Detroit to experience the best Auto Show yet. And as always, stay tuned to Houston Style Magazine for more updates on the biggest events and brightest stars across the nation.
CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM
e Mystique and Beauty of China Before Communism
Shen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multidimensional, deeply moving journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures— the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance— along with innovative multimedia effects and all-original orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a glorious civilization of unrivaled beauty, artistry, and inspiration.
“This is the best I have ever seen. It was so uplifting. It spoke to everything that is good in this world.”
—Glen Duncan, Grammy Award-winning musician
“It makes you dream of a heavenly world. It’s something that really restores you, regenerates you.”
—Filippa Giordano, famous Italian-Mexican singer
ENTERTAINMENT: Star-Studded Lineup: A Rodeo for the Ages
RodeoHouston has truly outdone itself for 2025, blending the best of country, pop, hip-hop, and more into a showstopping roster of talent. Here's what to expect:
•Reba McEntire kicks things off on Tuesday, March 4. With 20 performances under her belt, this trailblazing icon will remind us why she’s
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
a RodeoHouston legend. It’s been 11 years since her last appearance—get ready for a Texas-sized homecoming!
• Post Malone makes his RodeoHouston debut on Tuesday, March 18. Known for his genre-defying hits and recent pivot to country music, his performance is guaranteed to pack the stadium. “I Had Some Help,” his collaboration with Morgan Wallen, will undoubtedly bring the house down.
•Bun B’s Birthday Bonanza returns for Black Heritage Night on Friday, March 7, and if last year’s surprise-filled show is any indication, expect another unforgettable evening.
•Rising star Charley Crockett takes the stage on Monday, March 17, marking his ascension from
intimate Houston clubs to RodeoHouston's massive arena. A win for Texas talent!
A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock ‘n’ Roll (and More!)
From the soulful notes of Lauren Daigle (Wednesday, March 12) to the timeless classics of Journey (Friday, March 14), the diversity in this year's lineup ensures there's something for every music fan. Highlights include:
•Bailey Zimmerman (Saturday, March 8): The breakout country artist with three No. 1 singles will bring his soulful storytelling to the big stage.
•AJR (Thursday, March 6): This trio of pop-rock siblings is set to follow in the Jonas Brothers’ record-breaking footsteps.
•Grupo Frontera (Sunday, March 16): Representing for Go Tejano Day, this Mexican-American band promises an energetic, heartwarming performance.
Legacy Acts and Fan Favorites
For the traditionalists, RodeoHouston is rolling out the red carpet for country legends. Brooks & Dunn will make their jaw-dropping 22nd appearance on Saturday, March 22, while Luke Bryan closes out the festivities on Sunday, March 23 with his signature hip-swivels and hit-packed set.
Secure Your Spot: Tickets On Sale Soon
Tickets go live on Thursday, January 16, 2025, with two waves:
•Wave 1: Performances from Tuesday, March 4 to Thursday, March 13 go on sale at 10 a.m.
•Wave 2: Performances from Friday, March 14 to Sunday, March 23 go on sale at 2 p.m.
Visit RodeoHouston.com to snag your tickets before they’re gone. With a lineup this strong, you won’t want to miss out.
Why RodeoHouston Matters
RodeoHouston isn’t just a music festival—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and Houston’s deep-rooted love for all things Texas. From the iconic rotating stage to the carnival rides and mouthwatering food, it’s an experience that unites Houstonians of all backgrounds.
So, Houston Style Magazine readers saddle up and get ready for three weeks of unforgettable entertainment. Whether you’re there for the music, the rodeo, or the funnel cake, RodeoHouston 2025 promises to deliver moments you’ll cherish forever.
For more information, go to: www. RodeoHouston.com
