The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 2025 Infrastructure Summit & Expo – Architects, Engineers & Contractors (AEC) at Houston Dynamo FC. The event brought together business leaders, elected officials, and industry professionals to discuss key infrastructure priorities across Greater Houston, including stormwater management, transportation, port improvements, grid resilience, and public health facilities. Speakers included Tina Petersen of the Har-
ris County Flood Control District, Scott Hill of Houston Airports, and Roberto Treviño, Executive Director of the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA), who shared insights on upcoming projects and opportunities for collaboration.
The Chamber acknowledged the support of Harris County Commissioners Adrian Garcia, Lesley Briones, Rodney Ellis, and Tom S. Ramsey, along with City and County Directors and agencies such as the Harris County Engineering Department,
Harris County Flood Control District, Harris Health, Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA), and Houston Public Works. The event was made possible through the support of sponsors and was underwritten by Houston Dynamo FC, Fifth Third Bank, and Omega Engineers, Inc., contributing to the success of the summit and expo.
WHEN PRESIDENTS CAN'T TAKE A JOKE, DEMOCRACY SUFFERS
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
AMidwestern schoolteacher once told her class that a sense of humor is a sign of intelligence. “Look around the classroom,” she said. “The smartest kids always get the joke right away. The others might struggle.”
I’ve never confirmed that theory with a doctor. But I believe it. Humor takes quick thinking. It takes perspective. It takes freedom.
That’s why it matters when our
presidents can laugh at themselves. For generations, they have. Reagan turned questions about his age into a punchline. Obama roasted himself at the Correspondents’ Dinner. Even George W. Bush, the butt of endless late-night jokes, learned to grin and roll with it.
That humility has always set us apart from the monarchy we broke away from. Kings demand silence. Presidents in a free nation are supposed to be able to
laugh along with the people.
Donald Trump doesn’t get that. He can’t take a joke—and worse, he tries to punish the people who make them. First Stephen Colbert. Now Jimmy Kimmel. Using the power of the presidency to go after comedians isn’t just petty. It’s dangerous.
Authoritarians hate humor because humor exposes them. Stalin, Mussolini— every strongman fears the comic more than the critic. A joke spreads fast. A sharp one
can cut through a wall of propaganda. That’s why free countries protect comedians. They keep leaders honest by refusing to let them take themselves too seriously.
We forget: America was born on satire. Franklin drew cartoons mocking the British crown. Revolutionaries cracked jokes as easily as they fired muskets. Laughter was proof that no king could control the American spirit.
But when presidents can’t laugh at themselves, citizens stop laughing too. And when citizens stop laughing, they stop questioning. That silence is the first step toward submission.
This isn’t about whether you watch Jimmy Kimmel or Stephen Colbert. It’s about whether you want to live in a country where the president decides which jokes are allowed. Today it’s late-night hosts. Tomorrow it could be a cartoonist, a college kid, or you for what you post online.
The strength of America isn’t that our leaders are above mockery. It’s that they can survive it. A president who can’t take a joke can’t take criticism. And a president who can’t take criticism can’t be trusted with freedom.
That Midwestern schoolteacher was right: humor is a sign of intelligence. But more than that, it’s a sign of liberty. And if we want to keep our democracy strong, we better insist on leaders who can laugh—even, and especially, at themselves. Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and the former head of the NAACP. He is a direct descendant of the youngest combatant at the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
You can write to Ben Jealous incare of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Texans from Houston to El Paso will hold in their hands the power to reshape the Lone Star State’s constitution. Seventeen statewide propositions—covering everything from property tax relief to parental rights—will appear at the very top of every ballot. This is not just another election season—it’s a historic opportunity for Texans to weigh in on how their state funds schools, supports families, protects rights, and fosters economic growth.
While most of these proposed constitutional amendments revolve around tax cuts and exemptions, others dive into vital areas like education, water security, dementia research, judicial reform, and voter eligibility. In short: it’s a wide-ranging blueprint of Texas priorities, placed directly in the hands of its citizens.
Why This Election Matters
Texas lawmakers, riding a record $51 billion budget surplus , have sent these propositions to voters after months of debate. Their pitch? Give homeowners, businesses, and everyday Texans relief in the face of rising costs, while strengthening infrastructure and codifying rights. Supporters say these measures will keep Texas competitive, business-friendly, and family-oriented. Critics caution that short-
TEXAS AT THE BALLOT BOX - A VOTER’S GUIDE: TO THE 17 STATEWIDE PROPOSITIONS SHAPING OUR FUTURE
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor – www.StyleMagazine.com
term tax breaks could strain funding for essential services like schools, health care, and public safety
But here’s the thing: only voters can decide. Once approved, these amendments become enshrined in the state constitution—meaning it takes another constitutional vote to undo them. This is democracy, Texas-style.
Key Propositions to Watch
• Proposition 1 (SJR 59) – Funding for Texas State Technical College to prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce.
• Proposition 2 (SJR 18) – Ban on capital gains taxes—a move to cement Texas as an investor’s haven.
• Proposition 3 (SJR 5) – Bail reform, restricting certain individuals from release before trial.
• Proposition 4 (HJR 7) – Critical wa-
ter infrastructure funding to secure Texas’ most precious resource.
• Proposition 5 (HJR 99) – Tax exemptions for those selling animal feed—a nod to Texas’ agricultural.
• Proposition 6 (HJR 4) – Ban on securities transaction taxes, keeping Wall Street Texas-friendly.
• Proposition 7 (HJR 133) – Property tax exemption for surviving spouses of veterans
The Bigger Picture What Houston Voters Need to Know
• Voter Registration Deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025.
• Early Voting: Monday, October 20 –Friday, October 31, 2025.
• Mail-In Ballot Deadline: Friday, October 24, 2025.
• Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, let’s make history—one ballot at a time.
By Francis Page, Jr.
When it comes to beauty, confidence, and ambition, Houston City College (HCC) is helping students like 20-year-old Aracely Salas turn dreams into diplomas, and diplomas into dazzling careers.
Fresh out of Heights High School in 2023, Aracely knew two things: she loved beauty, and she was serious about business. What she didn’t know was how quickly HCC would give her the tools to transform a teenage hobby into a professional pathway. Today, Aracely is a licensed cosmetologist, employed at the bustling Visible Changes salon inside Memorial City Mall, and on track to earn her associate degree in May.
From Inspiration to Graduation
Aracely’s spark began years ago on nail salon trips with her mom. What started as painting her own nails at home blossomed into a passion for nails, hair, and makeup artistry.
At HCC’s Cosmetology Program , her talent quickly caught the attention of faculty. “Aracely is an outstanding student who fell in love with every aspect of cosmetology,” said faculty member Mishe Benjamin-Curry. “She came for nails, but she discovered she could master the whole beauty spectrum.”
That mastery paid off. Within a week of earning her Texas state cosmetology license in July, Aracely submitted her application to Visible Changes, got an interview, and was behind the chair the following week.
Education Meets Entrepreneurship
But Aracely isn’t stopping at scissors and styling tools. Thanks to HCC’s dual focus on technical and business education, she’s already planning her next move. She has enrolled in business courses at HCC with the goal of transferring to the University of Houston-Downtown for her bachelor’s degree.
Her mission? To own her very own salon by the age of 30.
“I know the behind-the-chair experience,” she said. “Now I want to learn the business side of owning a salon. HCC gave me the flexibility and the foundation to do both.”
Support, Flexibility, and a Future in Focus
Like many Houstonians, Aracely relied on financial aid and guidance counselors to keep her goals in motion. “HCC advisors are always making sure we’re on the right track,” she said. “You see all walks of life at school, and it really feels like a place that welcomes everybody.”
She’s now balancing full-time salon work with her studies, ready to walk proudly across the graduation stage in May 2026. “I skipped my first graduation, but this one—I’m definitely walking,” she said with a smile.
Life Beyond the Chair
When she’s not perfecting hair coloring techniques or styling clients, Aracely bowls with friends, explores Houston’s diverse restaurant scene, and binge-watches her favorite shows. It’s that balance of discipline and joy that makes her story relatable for every Houstonian chasing a dream.
Why HCC Matters Now
Houston Style Magazine readers, Aracely’s journey is proof that Houston City College is more than just a classroom—it’s a launchpad. Whether students are studying beauty, business, healthcare, or high tech, HCC continues to provide affordable education, hands-on training, and pathways to entrepreneurship that fuel Houston’s economic engine.
For Aracely, the future is not just bright—it’s styled, colored, and ready for success. “I’m grateful for where I started,” she said. “And I’m even more excited for what’s ahead.”
TDECU and Houston Texans Partner with Kids’ Meals to Tackle Childhood Hunger in Houston
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
When football meets philanthropy, the real winners aren’t just on the scoreboard—they’re in our Houston neighborhoods. This year, the Houston Texans’ Red Zone Sponsorship with TDECU (Texas Dow Employees Credit Union) has taken on a powerful new purpose: feeding hungry children through the life-changing work of Kids’ Meals.
Scoring Points for
Houston’s
Future
Every time the Texans’ offense pushes into the red zone—the heart-pounding stretch between the 20-yard line and the goal line—TDECU donates $300. That single play funds 150 nutritious lunches for preschool-aged children who otherwise might go without. With the Texans’ offense heating up, Houston’s kids now have more reasons than ever to cheer.
For Isaac Johnson, President and CEO of TDECU, the partnership is about more than charity; it’s about legacy.
“Part of our giving strategy is focused on addressing critical needs like food insecurity, and Kids’ Meals is doing life-changing work in that space,” Johnson explained. “This new opportunity allows us to take that relationship to the next level.”
Kids’ Meals: Nourishing More Than Stomachs
Kids’ Meals, a Houston nonprofit, delivers over 9,000 healthy meals every weekday to children living in food-insecure households. For Beth Braniff Harp, CEO of Kids’ Meals, the partnership with TDECU is a lifeline: “The TDECU Red Zone partnership demonstrates the incredible impact possible when organizations unite to end childhood hunger. Together, we’re not just feeding children— we’re delivering hope across Greater Houston.”
A Kickoff Celebration Full of Spirit
The collaboration officially launched with a high-energy celebration at Kids’ Meals headquarters. The TDECU Cares Foundation presented an $8,000 donation, and Texans Safety Jalen Pitre, mascot Toro, Texans cheerleaders, and over 90 TDECU volunteers rolled
up their sleeves to prepare meals. For Pitre, a proud Houston native, the moment was deeply personal:
“We’re proud to partner with TDECU to support Kids’ Meals this season. This is about making sure Houston kids have the fuel they need to dream big and achieve.”
A
Legacy of Giving Back
This marks the fourth consecutive year that TDECU has served as the Texans’ Red Zone sponsor. Last season alone, the program raised more than $24,000 for KIPP Sunnyside. For Crystal Harris, Executive Director of the TDECU Cares Foundation, the initiative is the definition of a win-win:
“We get to cheer for the Texans on the field while knowing every score helps provide meals for children who need them most. It’s a touchdown for Houston.”
About TDECU
Founded in 1955, TDECU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative with over 399,000 members and $4.8 billion in assets. With 34 Member Centers and a network of 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs worldwide, TDECU offers everything from mortgages and auto loans to digital banking, wealth management, and insurance products. Beyond banking, TDECU invests deeply in community well-being through its TDECU Cares Foundation. For more information, visit www.TDECU.org or call (800) 839-1154.
Why It Matters
In Houston, where one in four children faces food insecurity, partnerships like this redefine what it means to be “Houston strong.” Every touchdown in the red zone becomes a victory for our city’s youngest and most vulnerable. By combining hometown pride, athletic energy, and community generosity, the Texans and TDECU are proving that when Houston plays as a team—no child is left behind.
Pictured Holding The Check (L to R) - Texans Safety Jalen Pitre, Kids’ Meals CEO Beth Braniff Harp, TDECU President
Bishop - James Dixon
US REP Al Green & Bishop James Dixon
Terry Williams (HEB) & Bishop James Dixon
US REP Sylvia Garcia & Bishop James Dixon
Sylvia Mintz with Bishop James Dixon
Rebekah Williams (Mayor Whitmire) with Bishop James Dixon Martye Kendrick with Bishop James Dixon Bill Miller with Bishop James Dixon
US REP Al Green and Dr. Ruth Simmons
Michael Trevino with Bishop James
H Al Green H Sylvia Garcia H John Whitmire H Bill Miller H Martye Kendrick H Michael Trivino H Sylvia Mintz H Dr. Ruth Simmons H Sunday, September 21, 2025 H
Photos By Glennesha Johnson & TeamStyleMag
Bishop James Dixon & Family
Dr. Ruth Simmons with Bishop James Dixon
Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell with Bishop James Dixon
Violinist - Jamie Perry
Beef lovers, brace yourselves: that ribeye you’ve been eyeing may cost nearly as much as a concert ticket.
Ground beef prices have surged 51% since February 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, leaving many Houstonians wondering — what’s really behind this grocery sticker shock, and what can shoppers do about it?
The Price Puzzle: Supply, Demand, and Drought
The U.S. cattle herd is at its smallest in 75 years. Years of drought have left ranchers struggling to irrigate fields and feed their herds. Add in global tariffs, import restrictions, and climate challenges, and you’ve got a recipe for high prices.
In fact, the USDA forecasts beef production will fall 4% this year and another 2% in 2026. That means supply is shrinking while demand — America’s deep love affair with burgers, brisket, and steaks — is only beginning to bend under pressure.
As third-generation rancher Brady Blackett put it, “We’ve kind of hit this perfect storm. There’s healthy competition for the cattle, and not enough of them to fulfill demand.”
From Ranch to Register: What Shoppers See Restaurants and grocery stores
WHY BEEF PRICES ARE SKY-HIGH AND HOW SHOPPERS ARE FIGHTING BACK
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
are adjusting. In Omaha, a classic $8.95 burger now costs $11.95. In Texas and New Mexico, County Line barbecue owner Skeeter Miller is paying nearly double for hamburger meat — and even contemplating the unthinkable: pausing brisket until prices stabilize.
At the grocery store, research from Circana shows a turning point: ground beef sales, once a growth powerhouse, have plateaued for the first time. Between mid-July and mid-August, sales rose just 0.2% compared to the prior year. In other words, shoppers are starting to resist.
Shopper Survival Strategies: Turning Challenges Into Choices
The good news? Shoppers are far from powerless. Here are some shopper-smart strategies making waves across Houston households:
Portion Smarts: Stretch beef further by mixing with beans, mushrooms, or veggies for hearty, flavorful meals.
Try Alternatives: Chicken, turkey, plant-based meats, and even Houston’s booming seafood scene offer tasty, often cheaper swaps.
Shop Local & Seasonal: Farmers’ markets and co-ops may offer fresher options at better prices.
Watch for Deals: Stock up during sales and freeze portions for later use. This isn’t about giving up on burgers or brisket — it’s about giving families room to breathe at the checkout line.
Houston Pride: Community Resilience on Display
If there’s one thing Houston shoppers know, it’s resilience. From
weathering hurricanes to navigating inflation, this city has always found creative ways to adapt. Today’s beef challenge is no different.
As Circana’s Chris Dubois noted, “For years, all we saw were increasing prices and increasing demand. This is the moment of change.”
And change doesn’t have to mean sacrifice. It can mean smarter choices, supporting local producers, and making meals that nourish both body and budget.
Bottom Line: Shoppers Are in Control
Yes, beef prices are at record highs. Yes, ranchers are facing challenges that will take years to resolve. But shoppers? We hold the power — in our wallets, our kitchens, and our community.
By supporting local options, exploring alternatives, and refusing to let inflation dampen our dining joy, Houstonians can keep meals delicious, affordable, and full of pride.
So, Houston Style Magazine readers whether you’re grilling turkey burgers, simmering veggie chili, or splurging on that once-in-a-while ribeye, remember – you’re part of a larger movement — one where shoppers adapt, innovate, and thrive.
A HISTORY OF BIAS:
WHO GETS DEPORTED IN THE UNITED STATES? WHAT HOUSTON LEARNED AND WHY IT MATTERS NOW
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
AGroundbreaking Look at Deportation in America: On Friday, September 19, 2025, Houston joined a powerful national conversation as American Community Media hosted a briefing with UCLA’s Center for Immigration Law & Policy (CILP) and Million Dollar Hoods.
The subject: Mapping Deportations—a first-of-its-kind interactive project that lays bare more than 127 years of U.S. deportation orders (1895–2022). The conclusion? Deportation has never been neutral. More than 96% of deportation orders targeted people from predominantly non-white countries, revealing a deep-rooted pattern that continues to shape America’s present.
The Voices Leading the Discussion
Dr. Kelly Lytle Hernández — historian, MacArthur Fellow, and founder of Million Dollar Hoods.
Mariah Tso — GIS “rebel cartographer,” the mastermind behind the mapping visuals.
Prof. Ahilan Arulanantham — CILP Co-Director, Supreme Court advocate, and tireless defender of immigrant rights.
Together, they gave Houston and the nation a new lens to understand how policy and enforcement have repeatedly drawn the boundaries of belonging.
Five Eras That Tell the Story
Dr. Hernández outlined how de-
portation history mirrors America’s racial struggles:
1790–1875: Roots of Control — Early laws restricting Black migrants and fueling Indigenous removal.
1876–1929: Whites-Only Regime — Asian exclusion, limits on Black migration, and criminalization of Mexican entry.
1930–1954: Consolidation — Cold War pressures entrenched the racial order.
1955–1990: Amend & Enforce — Civil Rights reforms met with rulings like Brignoni-Ponce (1975), allowing race to remain an enforcement factor.
1991–Present: Deportation Nation — The largest deportation system in the world, with 7 million deportations and 25 million
voluntary departures since the 1990s.
Why This Matters for Houston
Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the U.S.—our neighborhoods, schools, and small businesses thrive because of immigrant communities. But the Mapping Deportations data underscores what many Houstonians know firsthand: Mexico has led deportation orders for 109 consecutive years—a result of discriminatory legal design, not just geography. Families here live the consequences of outdated, racially biased laws still shaping enforcement today.
The streets of Richmond are about to come alive with the sounds of marching bands, the sparkle of floats, and the joy of a community united. The Fort Bend County Fair Parade 2025 is here, and it’s more than just a parade—it’s a celebration of family, youth, agriculture, and the heart of Fort Bend County.
This year’s theme, “Promoting Family, Youth, and Agriculture,” promises a spectacular showcase of what makes our county strong. From civic groups and trail riders to school organizations and cultural performances, the parade route will be packed with energy, tradition, and plenty of smiles
Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy
Calls on District 4 to Shine
Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy is inviting residents to join in the fun, whether by riding on the trailer, walking alongside to hand out goodies, or simply waving proudly from the sidelines. “The Fort Bend County Fair Parade is one of our favorite events of the year,” McCoy shared. “It’s about celebrating our community, spreading good vibes, and showcasing the pride of District 4.”
With music in the air and neighbors gathered downtown, this is your chance to be part of an unforgettable day of commu-
FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR PARADE 2025: TRADITION, PRIDE, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT SHINE BRIGHT
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
nity spirit.
Event Details
When: Friday, September 26, 2025, 9:00 AM CT
Where: Downtown Richmond, TX
(Parade Route runs west on US 90A from Fifth Street in Richmond to Jennetta Street in Rosenberg – approx. 3 miles)
Fuel up with snacks, stay refreshed with drinks, and get ready to walk, wave, and celebrate!
Please RSVP here: RSVP Link
Registration & Participation
Registration opened: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 9:30 AM CT
Entry deadline: Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 4:00 PM CT
Late registration: Through August 29, 2025
BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL
FEATURED ARTIST JONAH BALLARD
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(subject to $25 fee, end-of-line placement)
Parade number pickup: September 22–24, 2025 at the Fort Bend County Fair Office, Main Ticket Building – Gate 2
Categories include Youth Civic, School, Commercial, Non-Profit, Trail Riders, Car Clubs, Elected Officials, and Fair Queen Candidates.
Top entries will be recognized with 1st Place Certificates, and one standout will be crowned “Judge’s Favorite” with a trophy and ribbon.
Parade Rules & Safety First
The Fort Bend County Fair Association has set clear rules to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment—from float size limits to family-friendly music policies. Remember: No decorated vehicles allowed as standalone
entries.
No throwing candy or objects from floats. No alcohol before or during the parade. Horses must have negative Coggins documentation.
This ensures that the parade remains a safe, family-friendly event for all ages.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Fort Bend County Fair Parade isn’t just an event—it’s a tradition. It’s where neighbors come together, where children see their community in full color, and where pride in Fort Bend County shines brightest. Whether you’re marching, cheering, or capturing memories with your camera, this is the place to be.
So, Houston Style Magazine readers mark your calendars, polish those boots, and bring your brightest smiles— because on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM CT, downtown Richmond will transform into a parade of pride, unity, and unforgettable Fort Bend spirit.
For more info. or to RSVP with Commissioner McCoy’s team, email CommPct4@fbctx.gov or visit www. fortbendcountyfair.com. Please RSVP here: RSVP Link
The Caribbean Music Awards 2025 lit up the Kings Theatre in New York and millions of homes across the globe during its historic broadcast on BET on Thursday, August 28, 2025, 7:00 PM CT. With bold beats, fiery performances, emotional tributes, and record-shattering wins, the CMAs proved once again why Caribbean music is not just a genre—it’s a global movement.
A Red-Carpet Affair: Style Meets Star Power
The evening began with a glamorous red carpet livestream hosted by Naomi Cowan, Spexdaboss, and DJ AG. It wasn’t just about the fashion—it was about Caribbean royalty making powerful entrances. Icons like Alison Hinds, Buju Banton, Spice, Konshens, DJ Khaled, and Busta Rhymes rubbed shoulders with rising stars, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
Performances That Moved the World
The show opened with a bang as Elephant Man stormed through the theatre with dancers and joined forces with Ding Dong for a medley of their biggest hits. Energy levels skyrocketed when Full Blown brought “Good Spirits” to life—only to be joined mid-performance by the soca king himself, Machel Montano, and newcomer
CARIBBEAN MUSIC AWARDS 2025 RECAP: A NIGHT OF STARS, CULTURE, AND UNSTOPPABLE CARIBBEAN VIBES
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Ayetian in a collaboration that had fans screaming for more.
Reggae royalty took the spotlight during the “Voice of the Caribbean” segment, where Romain Virgo and Lila Iké delivered soulful performances reminding the world of the genre’s depth and spirit.
Closing out the evening, Lady Lava dropped her anthem “Ring Finger,” sending the audience out on a high, proving once again that Caribbean music is a movement powered by both tradition and innovation.
Tributes, Legends & Cultural Honors
The night was as much about paying homage as it was about crowning champions. Highlights included:
Alison Hinds honoring Rihanna, celebrating 20 years of boundary-breaking brilliance. Busta Rhymes accepting the Elite Icon Award, reflecting on his Caribbean roots with an emotional, history-rich speech. Sizzla Kalonji receiving the Humanitarian
Award for his work with the Sizzla Youth Foundation, which uplifts young people through education and the arts.
Bounty Killer honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, proving legends never fade.
The Record-Breaker: Shenseea
If the CMAs had a headline, it would be spelled S-H-E-N-S-E-E-A. The dancehall star shattered records with five wins in one night, including Female Dancehall Artist of the Year and Dancehall Album of the Year for Never Gets Late Here. With a total of six CMA wins to date, she officially became the most awarded solo artist in Caribbean Music Awards history. Her single “Hit & Run” alone grabbed three trophies, making her the night’s undeniable queen.
Complete List of Winners Highlights include:
Latin
Reggae Artist of the Year – Romain Virgo Dancehall Song of the Year – “Hit & Run” – Shenseea x Masicka x Di Genius
Lifetime Achievement Award – Bounty Killer
Humanitarian Award – Sizzla Kalonji
Elite Icon Award – Busta Rhymes
People’s Choice – Vybz Kartel
(See the full list at CaribMusicAwards.com)
Houston Style Magazine Takeaway At Houston Style Magazine, we celebrate voices that carry cultures forward. The 2025 Caribbean Music Awards proved that when the Caribbean shines, the world dances.
Bouyon Artist of the Year – Mr. Ridge Female Soca Artist of the Year – Patrice Roberts
Caribbean Artist of the Year – Bad Bunny
Houston’s entrepreneurial spirit shines brightest when diversity leads the way.
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, the Asian Chamber of Commerce (ACC) will proudly host its Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards, honoring over 35 years of impact, growth, and resilience within Houston’s Asian business community. This premier black-tie celebration will unfold at the luxurious Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston, uniting the region’s leaders, visionaries, and innovators under one roof.
A Legacy of Leadership and Community Impact
For more than three decades, the Asian Chamber of Commerce has championed Asian-owned businesses across Greater Houston, uplifting entrepreneurs who not only drive economic growth but also shape culture, civic leadership, and philanthropy. The Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards stands as the Chamber’s signature event—where achievements are honored, partnerships are forged, and the Houston community at large comes together in celebration.
This annual evening recognizes companies and individuals who exemplify excellence in leadership, business innovation, and community service, underscoring the vital role Asian businesses play in Hous-
Asian Chamber Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards 2025: A HISTORIC CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE
By Francis Page, Jr. Editor – www.StyleMagazine.com
Event Details
�� Location: The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston, 1600 West Loop South, Houston, TX 77027
�� Attire: Black Tie (Optional, but elegance encouraged)
�� Register Now: Asian Chamber Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards 2025 Registration
Honoring Today, Celebrating Tomorrow
The awards ceremony will highlight top influential Asian-owned businesses and entrepreneurs , celebrating their contributions to Houston’s thriving economic landscape. By attending, guests will be immersed in an evening of networking with business leaders, civic officials,
and cultural icons—an opportunity to stand united in elevating our city’s economy while honoring Houston’s vibrant Asian community
Past honorees and speakers have included The Honorable Elaine L. Chao, Ambassador Katherine Tai, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel, and Chef Christina Ha, each adding their voice to this legacy of recognition and empowerment.
Sponsorship Opportunities: Click Here
Asian Chamber Gala Saturday, October 25, 2025
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Post Oak Hotel
For sponsorship or event inquiries, call the Asian Chamber office at 713-782-7222.
This fall, Houston takes center stage as the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) brings its prestigious Annual Conference and Career Expo to the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) from Tuesday, September 23 – Saturday, September 27, 2025. With an estimated 7,000 attendees expected this gathering of Black excellence in business, leadership, and innovation is set to be one of the city’s most impactful events of the year.
But here’s the call to action: volunteers are the heartbeat of this conference— and Houston is ready to shine.
A Legacy of Leadership Meets Houston Hospitality
From empowering keynote sessions to dynamic networking opportunities, the NBMBAA Annual Conference is more than an event—it’s a movement. This year’s lineup features some of the most influential names in business, media, and innovation:
-Marvin Ellison, CEO of Lowe’s -Ashley Etienne, former White House Comms. Strategist for Presidents Obama and Biden
-Jalen Rose, former NBA star, author, and New York Times bestselling writer -Angle Bush, founder of Black Women in AI
-Frank Holland, CNBC Anchor LaToya Moore, TikTok’s Head Community
HOUSTON WELCOMES THE NATIONAL BLACK MBA ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL CONFERENCE AT GRB – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Ed Gordon, award-winning journalist and media company founder
And that’s just the beginning. Each speaker brings inspiration, strategy, and bold perspectives to elevate attendees and empower the next generation of leaders.
Why Houston Needs YOU
Hosting an event of this magnitude requires more than a stunning venue—it requires the spirit of service that Houstonians are known for. Organizers are seeking volunteers from all walks of life—students, professionals, corporate groups, and community members—to help ensure a seamless, world-class experience. Volunteer perks aren’t just about free snacks (though those are included!). This is an opportunity to:
Build your network with top executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
Gain insider experience in coordinating one of the nation’s premier conferences.
Enhance your career path with resume reviews, interview coaching, and professional development sessions.
Receive official NBMBAA gear and on-site rewards like access to the Career Expo or General Sessions.
Earn post-conference rewards such as a complimentary one-year NBMBAA membership and a 2026 Premium Conference Registration.
And here’s the best part—you don’t need an MBA or even business experience to volunteer. All you need is a commitment of at least 8 volunteer hours and a willingness to be part of something transformative.
Key Volunteer Details
Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years old
Volunteer Days: Monday, September 22 –Friday, September 26, 2025
Orientation: Monday, September 22, 6:30 PM – 8:00
PM • Tuesday, September 23, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Snacks, drinks, and camaraderie included daily
For individuals, this is a front-row seat to the future of Black business leadership. For corporations, it’s an excellent team-building and community branding opportunity.
Be Part of the Movement
The NBMBAA Conference is more than just a week of events—it’s a launchpad for careers, a hub for innovation, and a powerful networking opportunity that will ripple far beyond Houston. So, Houston—are you ready to step up?
The city’s reputation for hospitality is on the line, and we need your energy, your commitment, and your pride. �� Register today to become a volunteer: https://nbmbaa.org/become-a-volunteer/ �� Learn more about the conference: https://nbmbaa.org/conference/
Let’s show the world that when Houston hosts, we do it bigger, better, and bolder.
Creator
Francis Page, Jr & Chad Burke
Francis Page, Bill Flores & Jay Guerrero
Linda Toyota, Alejandro Colom & Mary Jane Mudd
Ric Campo & Dr. Brenda Hellyer
Francis, Lisa, Tiko, Victoria
Thomas Brinsko – Industry ICON Winner Ross, Dennis & Adam Winkler
Amanda Baucum - Alliance
Darryl, Tiko & Francis
Mary, Tiko & Michelle
Photography By TeamStyleMag
Rob Bacon – Alliance Houston Port Chairman Ric Campo - Chairman of the Port Commission and his Port team
Francis, Linda & Jeffrey Cambell
Team Houston Style Magazine
DIVERSITY
IS THE
H-E-B’s Supplier Diversity Program works hard to ensure we’re selling goods and utilizing services from a wide variety of Texan businesses. We’re proud that our suppliers are as diverse as the Lone Star State itself.
As a former small business ourselves, we believe in and celebrate the value & strength that working with small businesses, local businesses, and businesses owned by diverse suppliers, women, LGBTQ+, Veterans, and disabled Texans brings to both our business and the communities we serve.
