IColin Allred Sweeps Major Trio of Texas Endorsements: THE LEADER WHO WILL DELIVER REAL CHANGE FOR TEXANS
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
n a powerful testament to Colin Allred’s growing momentum, three of Texas' most influential newspapers—The Houston Chronicle, Austin American-Statesman, and Dallas Morning News—have officially endorsed him in his bid for the U.S. Senate. Each endorsement is a reflection of Allred's track record, his bipartisan approach, and the growing dissatisfaction with Ted Cruz’s tenure.
Houston Chronicle: "Texas Needs Allred to Hold the
Center"
The Houston Chronicle, known for its focus on clear-headed analysis, hailed Allred as “solid, smart, and dedicated to his responsibilities.” Their endorsement cuts to the heart of the argument against Cruz, reminding readers of his well-documented failures, from his infamous Cancun getaway during Winter Storm Uri to his support of divisive policies. The editorial board praised Allred’s focus on comprehensive immigration reform and his support for women’s reproductive rights—issues central to Texans. They emphasized the need for someone who shows up for their constituents and remains committed to bipartisan solutions.
Austin American-Statesman: "Texans Need a New Leader"
Echoing sentiments of change, The Austin American-Statesman lambasted Cruz as a figure who has become more focused on “owning the libs” than on meaningful policy. The editorial board praised Allred for his ability to work with both parties, citing his legislative record as proof of his potential to make a real difference in the Senate. Texans, the board urged, should seek a “fresh start” with a leader like Allred, who represents responsibility and progress, especially in areas such as women's rights and immigration reform.Former Dallas Mayor and Congressman Steve Bartlett added to the chorus of Republican praise, stating, “Colin Allred has the character to take us forward and will be the kind of leader Texans need in the Senate. I trust Colin to respect our liberties, our constitution, and our shared values as Americans. Texans know that Colin would never abandon our state.”
Dallas Morning News: "A Willingness to Compromise for Solutions"
Closer to home, The Dallas Morning News endorsed Allred as a voice of reason and a bridge-builder. The newspaper noted Allred’s consistent willingness to compromise for the greater good, contrasting sharply with Cruz’s pattern of political
obstructionism. Highlighting his role in supporting key bipartisan legislation, the Morning News underscored the fact that Allred doesn’t play political games—he delivers results. His pragmatic approach to governance stands in stark contrast to Cruz’s divisive tactics, making Allred, in their view, the best candidate to represent Texas in the U.S. Senate.
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Why This Matters for Texas
With endorsements from Texas’ leading editorial boards, Colin Allred’s Sen-
ate run has picked up undeniable momentum. Each newspaper has made it clear: the state needs a new direction, one driven by bipartisan cooperation, not political theater. While Cruz continues to cater to extreme elements, Allred is being recognized as the leader who can restore dignity and purpose to the Senate seat.
These endorsements also reflect a broader recognition of Allred’s personal journey—from being raised by a single mother in Dallas to becoming a standout NFL player, and now a public servant. His character, resilience, and commitment to the people of Texas have made him the best option for voters seeking a candidate who will deliver real solutions in Washington. Houston Style Magazine readers, as the election approaches, Texas faces a crucial decision: to continue with the polarizing antics of Cruz or to embrace Allred’s moderate, problem-solving leadership. For these newspapers—and increasingly for voters across the state—the choice is clear. Allred is Texas’ future. www.ColinAllred.com
COMMENTARY ATTACKS ON PEOPLE’S STORIES ARE ATTACKS ON PEOPLE JUST ASK A LIBRARIAN
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
Your traditions and place in the American storyline are not real or valid. The history of your people is fiction.
That is the message a Houston, Texas suburb is sending to Native American kids. Just three days after Indigenous People’s Day, October 17 was the deadline to move the book Colonization and the Wampanoag Story by Linda Coombs to the “Fiction” section in Montgomery County’s public libraries. The problem is the book is not fiction.
My white ancestors on my dad’s side of the family arrived at the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts 400 years ago this year. When they arrived, the Wampanoag people had already been there for 12,000 years.
The Wampanoag were the first tribe the Pilgrims encountered when they arrived on the Mayflower. According to the book’s publisher, Colonization and the Wampanoag Story tells, from an Indigenous perspective, “the true story of the Indigenous Nations of the American Northeast, including the Wampanoag nation and others, and their history up to present day.”
The book’s author is a Wampanoag Tribe historian with 50 years of experience in her field. Colonization has been classified as a work of nonfiction by the Library of Congress and major library systems across Texas. However, back in March, Montgomery County adopted a library materials policy that gives an unelected, uncredentialed Citizens Review Committee “sole authority” to review any challenges to children’s, young adult, and parenting books in public libraries, basing their assessment on undefined “standards and values” of the County.
Virtually anyone can file a complaint about a book. There is not even a requirement for proof of local residency. The Committee then has the power to
reassign the book to “a more restrictive portion of the library” or remove it altogether. And its determination cannot be appealed. Librarians can be involved in “an advisory capacity” at the discretion of the committee chairperson.
Terese Kenny, who owns Village Books in Montgomery County, told Lonestar Live in March, “A tsunami of complaints from one individual outside of our state or even our country could deplete the parenting, children’s and young adult shelves of books based on one person’s biases alone.”
American Library Association (ALA) president Cindy Hohl is a member of Santee Sioux Nation. She is the ALA’s second Indigenous president and a former head of the American Indian Library Association. She notes that Indigenous Americans – the first Americans – are still here by the millions and she laments the message this reclassification sends to Native kids.
Hohl told me, “This action by the citizen committee tells Indigenous kids that their ancestors are merely fictional characters, not actual human beings, and that their people’s experiences and history are simply false, or even fantasy.”
The harmful reclassification of books is an extension of the recent wave of book bans and other authoritarian
attacks on the freedom to learn across the country. PEN America has tracked close to 10,000 book bans from July 2021 through the end of the 2023 school year.
Among the banned books, 37 percent “had characters of color or themes of race and racism. 36 percent had LGBTQ+ characters or themes.” According to PEN’s count, the bans have happened in 41 states and at least 247 school districts. In addition to burying Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ perspectives and history, the censorship brigade is also targeting texts that tell the truth about climate change. Even children’s classics, like Where the Wild Things Are and The Lorax, are not safe.
Last year, Illinois became the first state in the nation to ban book banning. Maryland and Minnesota have since followed suit. More states should. And they should also include protections against the kind of book reclassification happening now in Texas.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who initiated the bill in his state, said, “What this law does is it says, let’s trust our experience and education of our librarians to decide what books should be in circulation.”
On that point, the ALA’s Hohl was crystal clear:
“We as Library and Information professionals are credentialed to do this
work. We went to school and earned the Masters of Library and Information Science degree. And we should be trusted to do the work in our communities.”
She says we are seeing a consequence of not allowing librarians to do the job for which they were trained. “It brings harm to a child to hear that no longer is the history of their people deemed valid.”
Hohl also stressed the pride librarians take in helping their communities rise above the misinformation and disinformation spreading across America. “We are often quiet people but we stand up for justice and serve on the frontlines of democracy each and every day. Every day a library is open should be an opportunity for an American to access accurate information and we are the protectors of that access.”
“Libraries are supposed to be safe spaces for everyone,” Hohl says. “Strong communities have strong libraries, and it should be clear that all are welcome, that everyone belongs in a library.”
Attacks on books like the Colonization and the Wampanoag Story send the opposite message. Marginalized groups should find safe haven in public libraries. But how can they if libraries become one more place where their stories, perspectives, and histories are erased and invalidated?
Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com www.StyleMagazine.com
Early County is buzzing with political energy as early voting kicks off! Voters are flocking to the polls, driven by an unstoppable force – the chance to make history. The possibility of electing Vice President Kamala Harris as the first Black woman American President or sending Texas Democrat Colin Allred to the U.S. Senate as the first Black senator from Texas has ignited a fire under Harris County voters. On the first day of early voting, an impressive 125,472 voters lined up across the county, braving long waits of up to two hours at some of the 88 polling locations. Mike Doyle, Harris County Democratic Party Chairman, expressed confidence, stating, “If 1.1 million Democrats turn out by Election Day, Texas could finally see Colin Allred in the Senate and a sweep of local Democratic wins.”
Top Polling Locations See Record Turnout
The hottest polling spots in Harris County are already seeing record numbers of voters:
• Richard and Meg Weekly Community Center (Katy): Leading the charge with 3,994 voters, this area is home to many new families and could help elect Chase West, the first Black State Rep., and Stepha-
LOCAL: EARLY VOTING EXCITEMENT IGNITES ACROSS HARRIS COUNTY
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
nie Morales, the first Latina State Rep. from west Houston.
• Kingwood Community Center: A traditionally Republican stronghold, Kingwood saw 3,411 voters—many rallying behind Charles Cunningham, a U.S. Army veteran who made history as Kingwood’s first Black State Rep.
• West Gray Multi-Service Center (Montrose): Always a progressive favorite, 3,375 voters showed up, eager to participate in elections that could bring meaningful change for the LGBTQ+ community and Houston’s diverse young professionals.
• Juergens Hall (Cypress): With 3,207 voters, this location is home to Rep.
Wesley Hunt’s first re-election campaign. The Black Military Academy graduate and Apache Helicopter Pilot is seeing strong support from a rapidly expanding Cy-Fair ISD community.
• Nottingham Park (West Houston): With 2,639 voters, this area is fiercely supporting Mano DeAyala, Texas’ first Cuban American State Rep., known for his efforts in advocating for diverse communities and educational reform.
The Pulse of Early Voting in Harris County From Clear Lake (2,548 voters) to East Harris County (2,532 voters), residents are deeply concerned about issues
like hurricane recovery, education reform, crime, and immigration. Meanwhile, growing Latino and Black communities are making their voices heard in unprecedented ways.
At Prairie View A&M University Northwest and Jersey Village City Hall, voters are particularly energized by local school board races and the fight for fair water resource management. It’s clear: the more diverse Harris County becomes, the stronger the call for representation that reflects the county's growing multicultural fabric.
The Road Ahead: Voter Power in Action Harris County’s political future is in the hands of its voters. Early voting continues daily through Friday, November 1, leading up to the highly anticipated Election Day on Tuesday, November 5. Voters across Houston are making history—and it’s not just about presidential or senatorial races. From water boards to school boards, the decisions being made at the polls now will shape the future of Harris County for generations to come.
Houston Style Magazine readers, voters are determined, energized, and ready to make change happen. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this historic moment— get to the polls and let your voice be heard!
Get ready, Houston! Starting Monday, October 21, Harris County voters can take advantage of early voting for the Tuesday, November 5th General and Special Elections. Whether you're busy with work, life, or unexpected events, early voting ensures you won’t miss the chance to make your voice heard.
Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth is urging everyone to mark their calendars and plan ahead. Early voting will run through November 1, offering ample time to vote at any of the 88 convenient vote centers across Harris County. You can vote on your schedule, with a total of 144 hours to cast your ballot early. "Life can be unpredictable," Hudspeth notes, "so voting ahead of Election Day ensures that illness, work, or any last-minute surprises won’t stand in your way."
Early Voting Schedule
Here’s a quick look at the hours during this early voting period:
October 21–26: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
October 27 (Sunday): 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
October 28–30: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
October 31: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
November 1: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Don’t forget to review and print your personalized sample ballot before
EARLY VOTING FOR NOVEMBER 5 ELECTIONS KICKED
By Francis Page, Jr.
heading to the polls. You can find it at HarrisVotes.com.
Vote by Mail Deadline: October 25
Can’t make it in person? You’ve still got time! Friday, October 25 is the deadline to request a ballot by mail. Remember, that’s the “received by” date—so don’t wait until the last minute. You’re eligible to vote by mail if:
You’re 65 or older
Sick or disabled
Expecting a baby close to Election Day
Traveling outside the county Confined in jail but still eligible For more details, visit HarrisVotes.com and stay tuned for updates by following @HarrisVotes on social media.
Plan Ahead and Get Involved Houston Style Magazine readers, voting early not only gives you flexibility, but it also helps reduce Election Day congestion at the polls. Harris County Clerk Hudspeth stresses the importance of making voting “as accessible and secure as possible”—so why wait? Head to the polls during early voting and be sure to spread the word. Let’s make this election count, Houston!
Imani Waters Howard University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Mattie Moore North Carolina A&T University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Harrison Buck Morehouse College
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Stefon Young-Rolle Alabama State University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Juan Benn Jr. Howard University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Kynnedi Jackson Southern University A&M College
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Kayla Hare North Carolina A&T University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Amyah Fountain Clark Atlanta University
NNPA Journalism Fellow
Erinn Gardner Spelman College
Joseph Tilaye Alabama A&M University
Fellow
On October 17, 2024, the Second Annual Latina Entrepreneurship Conference took place in Houston’s historic East End, drawing over 200 Latina small business owners. The one-day event celebrated Latina entrepreneurs in Texas and provided resources to support their ongoing success. As one of the largest Latina metropolitan areas in the U.S., Houston was the ideal location for the conference, which underscored the important role Latina-owned businesses play in the state’s economy.
The event, organized by the Amigas Latinas & Friends Network, a Houston-based nonprofit, aimed to raise awareness about the economic contributions of Latina-founded and led businesses while equipping participants with tools for success. Resources such as financial literacy
H 2ND LATINA ENTREPRENEURSHIP CONFERENCE H
Organized by the Amigas Latinas & Friends Network
education, personal development strategies, marketing techniques, and networking opportunities were available to help entrepreneurs overcome the unique challenges they face.
Anjelica Cazares, founder and organizer of the conference, highlighted the importance of supporting Latina entrepreneurs, emphasizing the removal of barriers for women at all levels. “Latinas are leading the charge when it comes to starting and growing successful businesses in Texas and across the country,” said Cazares. “But we face unique challenges that require a certain level of cultural understanding to meet our needs.”
The Amigas Latinas & Friends Network was created to serve the community of women connected through Cazares' national Latina Leadership Podcast. The organization’s mission is to remove barriers for all women, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, and
pay equity. The conference serves as a key annual event to support Latina business owners throughout the year.
The conference featured keynote speakers, expert panels, and roundtable discussions on critical business topics, such as accessing capital, improving marketing strategies, and managing business growth. Major sponsors included Walmart, Kroger, Pfizer, Comcast, and Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, all of which played significant roles in supporting the event. Representatives from the Small Business Administration Houston Office and local nonprofits also participated, offering resources and advice to attendees. In addition to the in-person networking and educational sessions, the event reached a broader audience by live-streaming portions online, allowing those who could not attend to benefit from the discussions and insights.
Cazares stressed the need for ongoing support for Latina entrepreneurs,
noting that while many have achieved significant success, disparities in access to capital, networking opportunities, and pay equity remain. “Latinas are creating economic value at incredible rates, but we must also acknowledge the disparities they face. By bringing Latina entrepreneurs together with industry leaders and community resources, we are building a network of support to address these issues,” she said. The event concluded with attendees leaving empowered and equipped with new strategies and connections. It was not only a day of learning but a celebration of the resilience, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of Latinas in Texas. The Latina Entrepreneurship Conference continues to be a crucial platform for fostering business growth, empowering women, and supporting Latina entrepreneurs across Texas and beyond.
Anjelica Cazares, Founder, Latina Entrepreneurship Conference
As he fall breeze sweeps across Texas, there's more than just cooler temperatures to celebrate this season. For nearly 5,000 teachers and employees at Harmony Public Schools, October has brought an extra dose of joy—and cash! Yes, you heard that right—$15 million in bonuses are being handed out, proving that Harmony is not only a school but a family that recognizes and rewards dedication.
Starting on Monday, October 21st, Harmony teachers and staff will receive a
generous six percent of their annual salary as a special holiday bonus. For the average teacher, this translates into a well-deserved $3,000 to $4,000. And it doesn’t stop there. The holiday cheer is spreading even to the unsung heroes behind the scenes—those who keep the school running like a well-oiled machine, from crossing guards to tutors.
A Bonus for Everyone—Harmony's Way
has consistently shown its commitment to ensuring its team members feel valued. This $15 million holiday bonus follows similar gestures in the past, including a five percent bonus in November 2023. Not to mention the enticing opportunities Harmony offers its teachers to earn even more throughout the year by leading clubs, taking professional development courses, and teaching in critical subject areas.
Harmony’s early adoption of the Texas Education Agency’s Teacher Incentive Allotment program means the top-performing educators can earn between $3,000 and a staggering $30,000 in additional compensation annually. About 1,000 teachers have already benefited from this program, adding another feather to Harmony’s well-deserved cap. Harmony’s Commitment to Excellence— And It Shows
Harmony Public Schools, a proud Texas-born and Texas-wide charter school system, boasts an impressive curriculum that combines STEM education, character building, and hands-on learning. Its 58 campuses across 23 cities in the Lone Star State are leading the way in preparing students for college and life beyond the classroom. Whether in Houston, Austin, or the Rio Grande Valley, Harmony students thrive in an environment where academic excellence is the norm, not
on the future, the present looks exceptionally bright for its teachers and employees. With the holiday season just around the corner, the bonus checks come at the perfect time to spread some extra cheer—perhaps a new holiday tradition in the making? Either way, Harmony Public Schools has made it clear that in this family, hard work never goes unnoticed.
So, if you're a Texas educator or parent looking for a forward-thinking environment for your child, now’s the time to explore Harmony’s PreK-12 programs. The charter system is currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year, both for students and for those hoping to join the Harmony team. Head over to www.harmonytx.org to learn more and maybe, just maybe, catch the Harmony magic for yourself! Join the Harmony Family Today!
At Harmony Public Schools, students aren’t the only ones who get to shine. From its cutting-edge STEM-focused curriculum to the deep respect shown to educators, Harmony is where innovation meets appreciation. As Texas families prepare for another school year, Harmony’s message is clear: hard work, commitment, and excellence deserve to be rewarded—and celebrated!
While Harmony is always focused
In Harris County, time is marked not only in years, but also by the storms that have left lasting impacts. Since 2007, we've faced hurricanes Ike, Harvey, and Beryl, as well as tropical storms like Imelda, and floods that occurred on Memorial Day, Tax Day, and even Halloween.
In August 2017, during Hurricane Harvey, I was nine months pregnant with my youngest daughter. Surrounded by severe flooding and destruction, I feared I would not make it to a hospital safely. Even today, as my daughters grow up, they still feel uneasy during heavy rains. This lingering anxiety reflects a broader concern in Harris County, where flooding is frequent and devastating, and affects our community's sense of security.
This November, Harris County voters will consider Proposition A, which relates to the maintenance of flood control infrastructure. If passed, it would allocate $100 million to the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) for flood mitigation efforts. These funds would be specifically designated for infrastructure maintenance, ensuring that resources are used transparently and accountably.
Since 2018, HCFCD has invested more than $5.2 billion in flood control
Op-Ed: UNDERSTANDING HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT PROPOSITION A
projects designed to protect lives and property. Recent improvements, like those along Brays Bayou, played a key role in preventing flooding during Hurricane Beryl, demonstrating the positive impact of the District's ongoing efforts. While we continue delivering new improvements, we are also tasked with maintaining current flood-prevention assets. Just like our homes and vehicles require regular upkeep, so too does flood control infrastructure. If approved by the voters, Proposition A would support the ongoing maintenance of our infrastructure investments, shortening the asset replacement life cycle by about 200 years.
Demands on HCFCD’s existing infrastructure continue to rise. Since 2000,
By Comissioner Lesley Briones
our flood control assets have doubled, and more than 1.3 million new residents have moved to Harris County. Despite these increased demands, funding for maintenance has remained flat since 2000. If passed, Proposition A would provide additional funding to accelerate repairs, including sediment removal, erosion control, and concrete repairs. These efforts play a key role in maintaining clear channels, reducing floodwaters, and safeguarding homes and businesses across the region.
Investing in resilient infrastructure is key to managing Harris County’s growth, preparing for future weather events, and better protecting our families. Proposition A, if approved by voters, would support proactive maintenance
programs that address community concerns and potential issues before they escalate. The proposed property tax increase for the average Harris County home would be around $60 per year. While the immediate impact of flooding might not be felt by every household, the entire region benefits from a well-maintained flood control system.
As we face the reality of more frequent and severe weather events, it’s crucial to consider the long-term needs of our community so that we may ensure our infrastructure remains strong for generations to come.
Commissioner Briones
LOCAL: TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT UNVEILS CUTTING-EDGE STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING FACILITY
By Francis Page, Jr. - Editor
In, a pivotal moment for Texas Southern University (TSU) Athletics, the department recently celebrated the grand opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art Strength and Conditioning Facility. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a significant milestone for the TSU campus, marking the beginning of a new era for its student-athletes and athletic programs. Nestled behind the iconic Alexander Durley Stadium, this 6,600-square-foot facility promises to catapult TSU's athletic offerings to new heights, setting the stage for greater success and broader competitive reach.
A Leap Forward for TSU Athletics
"One of the things that these new student-athletes are checking out is your facilities. So, when you don’t have top-notch facilities, a lot of times they’re not going to come to your school,” said Dr. Kevin Granger, TSU’s Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. “Now, when we have recruits visit our
campus, we can bring them into facilities that will match up with anybody’s in the state.”
The new Strength and Conditioning Facility is a game-changer for TSU’s 16 intercollegiate athletic programs, as well as for the beloved Ocean of Soul Marching Band, TSU Cheer Team, TSU Sensations, and the university mascots. With top-tier weights, cutting-edge equipment, dedicated spaces for physical therapy, and ample offices for strength and conditioning staff, the facility breathes new life into the training
regimen of TSU’s athletes.
More Than Just a GYM – It's a $3.5 Million Investment
This new facility, representing a $3.5 million investment, is twice the size of the old training space at H&PE Arena. It's not just a space upgrade—it’s an investment in the future of TSU Athletics. For years, the student-athletes had to make do with a smaller space, but now they have the room and resources to get bigger, faster, and stronger.
TSU baseball player Errick Lewis is particularly enthusiastic about the new facility.
Mathew Knowles —music executive, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and, of course, father of superstars Beyoncé and Solange—has always been in the spotlight. But in 2019, he found himself in a different kind of spotlight: that of a breast cancer survivor. Yes, you read that right—breast cancer doesn’t just affect women. Men can, and do, get breast cancer, and Mathew Knowles wants everyone to know about it.
It All Started with a Symptom For Knowles, it all began with an unusual and alarming sign—bloody discharge from his nipples. Trusting his instincts, he sought medical attention, and after undergoing a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, his fears were confirmed. He was diagnosed with stage 1A breast cancer. This was early-stage cancer, which hadn’t yet spread to his lymph nodes, but still a serious diagnosis that needed immediate attention.
The Reality of Male Breast Cancer
Although male breast cancer is rare, it’s not impossible. In fact, about 1 out of every 100 breast cancer diagnoses in the United States is in men. Yet, many men are unaware of this possibility. As Knowles points out, there’s often a sense of shame or stigma that can prevent men from getting checked or speaking out
LOCAL : BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH - BEYONCÉ’S DAD, MATHEW
KNOWLES, SHARES HIS POWERFUL STORY AS A MALE BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
about it. “The more you talk about it, the more open you are, it loses its power,” Knowles explained. And that’s why he’s making it a mission to raise awareness.
Undergoing Treatment and Genetic Testing
Like many other male breast cancer patients, Knowles’ treatment required a mastectomy—removal of the breast tissue. Because men typically have smaller amounts of breast tissue, the procedure often involves removing the entire breast, as was the case with Knowles. He didn’t need radiation or chemotherapy, but genetic testing soon revealed he carried the BRCA2 gene mutation. This was a critical piece of information, not just for him, but
for his entire family. What is the BRCA2 Gene?
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are tumor suppressor genes, crucial in the body’s fight against cancer. However, if a person carries a mutation in either gene, their risk for certain cancers—like breast cancer—dramatically increases. For men like Knowles, carrying a BRCA2 mutation means their risk of developing breast cancer is 100 times higher than that of the average man.
Family Matters: Sharing Knowledge and Protecting Loved Ones
With a strong family history of breast and prostate cancer, Knowles knew his genetic information could be
life-saving for his children and other relatives. He made it a priority to inform his family, ensuring they could take proactive steps in their health journeys. “That’s the beauty of genetic testing,” he said. “It allows you to share that information with the people you love.”
Spreading Awareness with Purpose Today, Knowles is not only a cancer survivor but also an advocate for genetic testing and awareness. He’s teamed up with AstraZeneca’s BeBRCAware campaign to spread the word about the importance of knowing your family history, getting tested, and taking proactive steps to manage health risks.
A Changed Life
It’s been five years since Knowles’ diagnosis, and he remains cancer-free. But the experience changed him forever. He’s lost 30 pounds, switched to a healthier diet, and exercises regularly. Now, he’s hyper-vigilant about his health, undergoing annual screenings for breast and prostate cancer. His message to everyone? Don’t be afraid to get checked. Early detection saves lives.
Mathew Knowles
Prepare your taste buds for a flavorful fall as Lotus Seafood, Houston’s beloved seafood spot since 2006, serves up a new fresh batch of culinary delights that are sure to leave you craving for more. This season, Lotus is elevating its already fan-favorite menu with some Southern-inspired seafood twists, bringing together comfort food and coastal classics in a way only Lotus can!
Let’s talk about the stars of the new menu: Soft Shell Crab and Seafood Po’Boys. Whether you’re a die-hard Po’Boy fan or just craving a satisfying bite, Lotus delivers with the all-new Soft Shell Crab Po’Boy—a Southern masterpiece with tender, crispy crab nestled between pillowy bread. Then there’s the Oyster & Fried Green Tomato Po’Boy, which takes traditional flavors up a notch by adding a burst of tangy fried green tomatoes that will have your taste buds dancing. And if that doesn’t convince you, Soft Shell Crab is also served on its own, paired with Lotus’ famous Louisiana Fried Rice for an extra pop of flavor! For those seeking the ultimate comfort, Lotus is also rolling out new homestyle Southern sides that’ll make any meal feel like a cozy fall evening at Grandma’s. We’re talking about Coleslaw, Mac and Cheese,
LOCAL: Lotus Seafood - Houston’s New Fall Flavors are Here to Spice Up Your Palate!
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Fried Green Tomato, Mashed Potatoes, Fried Okra, and Potato Salad. These new sides are the perfect match to Lotus’ seafood creations, completing every plate with a touch of homey Southern goodness. But hold up—this is just the beginning! Over the past 16 years, Lotus Seafood has gone from being a local “You Buy, We Fry” seafood market to becoming a thriving chain with five locations and a wildly popular food truck. Known for its unique,
mouthwatering dishes like the Loud Pack and Hot Box, Lotus has made a name for itself with Houston foodies and beyond. In fact, with over 500,000 Instagram followers (@lotusseafood), Lotus’ influence in the food scene is undeniable.
And if you haven’t tried their signature Crack Sauce, you’re missing out. This creamy, buttery, garlicky blend is downright addictive and now available nationwide in 16-ounce bottles for your home
enjoyment. Whether drizzled over seafood, fries, or anything else you can think of, this sauce is pure magic!
Of course, Lotus isn’t just about new menu items. They’re staying true to their roots with crowd favorites like lobster, crawfish, oysters, Cajun shrimp, and more. Want something beyond seafood? You can still dig into wings, seafood rice, noodles, and even to-go frozen daiquiris! And for football season, Lotus’ Stafford location is a must-visit for game day with its full bar, multiple TVs, and a perfect lineup of seafood Po’Boys and oysters to keep you fueled up.
All these delicious new additions are available at Lotus Seafood locations across Houston (Pearland, Kirkwood, Stafford, and Bissonnet at 59), except Veterans Memorial Drive. Don’t forget to visit their website at Lotus Seafood to place your online orders or grab a bottle of that unforgettable Crack Sauce via The Sauce Packin’ Co..
Houston Style Magazine readers, get ready to experience Southern seafood comfort like never before – at Lotus Seafood – the flavors are always fresh, bold, and Houston-proud!
In an exciting new chapter for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, legendary barrelman Leon Coffee has officially passed the torch, introducing rodeo fans to the first new RODEOHOUSTON® barrelman in 31 years—none other than the award-winning entertainer, John Harrison. Set to debut in 2025, this change marks a monumental moment in the history of the Rodeo, one that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
A New Legend Takes Center Stage
John Harrison, a household name in the world of rodeo entertainment, has earned a reputation as one of the finest performers in the industry. With an impressive 12 National Finals Rodeo (NFR) appearances and nine PRCA Clown/Barrelman of the Year titles, including his most recent win in 2023, Harrison’s credentials are unmatched. Known for his comedic charm and undeniable talent, he’s also taken home the Comedy Act of the Year award eight times. Now, the Oklahoma native and beloved “Clown Family” patriarch is ready to bring his unique flair to Houston.
“I am beyond thrilled to join the RODEOHOUSTON family,” Harrison said in a recent interview. “To follow in the footsteps of a legend like Leon Coffee is a tremendous honor, and I cannot wait to create some unforgettable memories with
LOCAL: RODEOHOUSTON® WELCOMES JOHN HARRISON:
THE FIRST NEW BARRELMAN IN OVER 30 YEARS!
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
the incredible Houston crowd in 2025.”
Leon Coffee’s Legacy
Leon Coffee, a rodeo legend who has captivated Houston audiences for over three decades, played an integral role in choosing his successor. Harrison, handpicked by Coffee himself, is expected to uphold the legacy of performance excellence while adding his own distinctive comedic twist. Coffee expressed his excitement about the future: “John is the perfect addition to RODEOHOUSTON. I’m eager to see how he connects with the audience and brings new energy to the arena next year.”
Chris Boleman, president and
CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, echoed Coffee’s sentiments. “We are thrilled to have John Harrison on board. He has proven himself as one of the best in the business, and we can’t wait to introduce him to our RODEOHOUSTON guests. We will forever be grateful to Leon for his decades of unforgettable performances, and we’re excited for this new chapter.”
Houston Gears Up for 2025!
As the countdown to the 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo begins, excitement is building for John Harrison’s first appearance on opening night, March 4, 2025. Fans can expect electrifying performances, heart-stopping stunts,
and a brand-new barrelman at the center of the action.
Houston Style Magazine readers, mark your calendars because the 2025 Rodeo, scheduled from March 4 to March 23, promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. But first, don't miss the 2025 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest presented by Cotton Holdings, running from February 27 to March 1—a tantalizing prelude to the main event.
About the Houston Livestock Show
and Rodeo
Since 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a cornerstone of Texas culture. With a mission to promote agriculture, support Texas youth, and celebrate Western heritage, RODEOHOUSTON is a family-friendly, community-driven event that educates and entertains year-round. Over the decades, the Rodeo has generously contributed more than $600 million to Texas youth and education programs, a tradition that continues to this day.
For the latest news, be sure to follow @RODEOHOUSTON on social media platforms like Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube, and visit their website at rodeohouston.com.
