Month: April 2026

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 21, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a moment that beautifully bridges history, heritage, and high achievement, Texas Southern University has crowned its newest royal ambassadors — Zyias Richards and Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes—as Mister and Miss TSU. Their coronation arrives at a pivotal time as the university celebrates its Centennial, marking 100 years of cultivating brilliance, leadership, and unapologetic Tiger pride.

This year’s Mister and Miss TSU Scholarship Pageant was more than a competition — it was a showcase of intellect, talent, poise, and purpose. With four dynamic women and three accomplished men vying for the crown, contestants were evaluated across talent, interviews, Q&A, and formal presentation. Rising above a field of excellence, Richards and Nelson-Grimes didn’t just win titles—they embodied a legacy.

Zyias Richards: A Voice of Leadership, A Vision of Service

Houston native and Lamar High School graduate Zyias Richards steps into history as the 25th Mister Texas Southern University—and he does so with distinction. A junior majoring in Radio, Television, and Film with a minor in Entertainment Recording Industry Management, Richards represents the modern TSU scholar: creative, committed, and community-focused.

From commanding the stage as an announcer for the legendary Ocean of Soul marching band to sharpening his intellect as a President’s List scholar and award-winning member of the TSU Debate Team, Richards has built a résumé rooted in excellence. His academic journey through the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College and recognition as a Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute Scholar further reflect a rising leader prepared for national impact.

Yet, it is his heart for service that defines his reign.

With a platform centered on bridging the gap between student leadership and servant leadership, Richards is poised to amplify voices, inspire belief, and cultivate a culture where every TSU student sees themselves as a catalyst for change.

“When you believe in yourself, you give others something to believe in,” Richards shared—words that now echo across campus as a call to action.

Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes: Power, Purpose, and Poise

Equally inspiring is the 79th Miss TSU, Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes — a junior Marketing major from St. Louis whose presence commands both elegance and empowerment. Nelson-Grimes is the embodiment of the modern HBCU woman: driven, dynamic, and deeply committed to uplifting others.

Her leadership footprint spans campus—from mentoring freshmen through Campus Pals to championing women’s empowerment with HER TSU. As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Psi Chapter, and a leader within the Midwest Club, she blends sisterhood with service in impactful ways.

Her influence extends even further as a Residential Assistant, Recreation and Wellness Center contributor, and XceleadHer Fellow—spaces where she continues to build platforms for women to lead boldly and unapologetically.

Inspired by the wisdom of Oprah Winfrey, Nelson-Grimes carries a message that resonates deeply:

“Failure is not the end—it’s the beginning of becoming greater.”

A Centennial Court with a Purpose

Together, Richards and Nelson-Grimes are more than ceremonial figures—they are strategic ambassadors for a new era of TSU excellence. Their reign will champion unity, advocacy, academic success, and student empowerment, all while honoring the rich legacy that has defined Texas Southern University for a century.

As TSU enters its next 100 years, this royal duo stands as a powerful reminder: the future is not only bright—it is brilliant, bold, and built on the shoulders of leaders who dare to serve.

For Houston—and for the culture—this is more than a crowning moment.

This is legacy in motion.

More information, go to: TSU.edu

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
KIELEESTYLE@GMAIL.COM
4096658446

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 21, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a city where diversity isn’t just celebrated—it’s lived—Stafford, Texas is preparing to take center stage with a dazzling tribute to culture, community, and connection. Mark your calendars for Friday, May 8, 2026, at 7:30 PM CT, when the City of Stafford proudly hosts its highly anticipated Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Celebration at the iconic Stafford Centre.

This dynamic, FREE and open-to-the-public event promises to be more than just a show—it’s a cultural experience designed to honor the powerful legacy and vibrant contributions of AAPI communities as the United States approaches its historic 250th anniversary.

A Night Where Cultures Converge

Presented in partnership with the Asia Society Texas Center and the Asian Chamber of Commerce, this multicultural celebration will bring together artists representing more than 10 countries, showcasing an electrifying mix of music, dance, and storytelling. From the rhythmic beats of Kaminari Taiko of Houston to the elegance of the Salaru Sri Lankan Cultural Academy, and the high-energy performances of the Houston Bhangra Academy, attendees can expect a global journey—without ever leaving Houston’s backyard.

This carefully curated lineup reflects the richness of the AAPI diaspora and its profound influence on American culture, innovation, and identity. Whether it’s the disciplined artistry of the Shaolin Temple Cultural Center or the youthful brilliance of the North America Youth Chinese Orchestra, every performance will serve as a reminder: diversity is America’s greatest strength.

A Celebration with Purpose—and Perks

“This assembly of top-tier entertainment is a once-in-a-generation spectacle,” shared Stafford City Council Member and AAPI Committee Chair Alice Chen, emphasizing the event’s significance. “We aim to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary while highlighting the unity and diversity that define us.”

And yes—there’s an added bonus. Attendees aged 21 and older will have the opportunity to enter a raffle for a chance to win one of four round-trip international flights departing from Houston to dream destinations including Tokyo, Taipei, Manila, and Singapore. (Must be present to win—so plan accordingly!)

Plan Ahead—Seats Will Fill Fast

While admission is free, advance ticket reservations are required, and seating is limited. Reservations officially opened on April 13, 2026, via staffordcentre.com, and if Houston’s track record for cultural events is any indication—this one will be a full house.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early:

Doors Open: 6:30 PM CT (with a lively pre-show in the lobby) Unclaimed Seats Released: 7:15 PM CT Event Details at a Glance

What: City of Stafford AAPI / Multicultural Celebration When: Friday, May 8, 2026, 7:30 PM CT Where: Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 Admission: FREE (Advance reservation required) More Info: staffordtx.gov | Follow @CityofStafford

Why This Matters for Houston—and Beyond

In a region as globally connected as Houston, events like this don’t just entertain—they educate, empower, and unite. The AAPI Celebration in Stafford stands as a powerful reminder that the future of America is multicultural, collaborative, and deeply rooted in shared respect.

For the readers of Houston Style Magazine—leaders, influencers, families, and forward-thinkers—this is more than a night out. It’s an opportunity to engage with the stories, rhythms, and traditions that continue to shape our city and our nation.

So, Houston Style Magazine readers, gather your friends, secure your tickets, and prepare for an unforgettable evening where culture shines, community thrives, and Houston’s global spirit takes center stage.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
KIELEESTYLE@GMAIL.COM
4096658446

By Francis Page Jr.

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    April 21, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — On Earth Day, the message echoes louder than ever—care for what we’ve been given. It’s a principle older than policy, older than politics, and deeply rooted in faith, science, and common sense alike. Across cultures and generations, humanity has shared a simple, profound responsibility: protect the Earth.

And yet, the urgency of that responsibility has never been clearer.

From the steady rhythm of sunrise to the miracle of growth in every seed, our planet tells a story of balance, beauty, and design. But today, that balance is under pressure. Scientists warn that the rate of species loss is accelerating at a pace not seen in over 66 million years—what many now call the “sixth mass extinction.” Unlike past events triggered by natural disasters, this one carries a more sobering truth: it is driven by human activity.

But here’s the good news—Houston is not standing still.

A City Rising to the Challenge

In the heart of Texas, Houston is emerging as a global leader in energy transformation. Known historically as the energy capital of the world, the city is now redefining that legacy—shifting from traditional fossil fuels toward cleaner, renewable solutions that honor both innovation and environmental stewardship.

This evolution reflects a powerful realization: the same ingenuity that powered the industrial age can now drive a sustainable future.

Solar energy, wind power, hydrogen innovation, and carbon capture technologies are no longer distant concepts—they are active investments shaping Houston’s economic and environmental landscape. Initiatives across the Greater Houston region are creating jobs, advancing equity, and positioning the city as a cornerstone of America’s clean energy future.

From Finite to Infinite: A Necessary Shift

Human history has always been tied to energy. From the discovery of fire to the rise of coal and oil, each advancement brought progress—but also consequences. Forests vanished. Wildlife populations declined. Ecosystems were altered, often irreversibly.

The difference today? We have options.

Renewable energy sources—sun, wind, water—offer something previous fuels never could: sustainability without depletion. These resources are not only abundant but also increasingly accessible and cost-effective. Transitioning to them isn’t just smart economics—it’s a moral imperative.

In many ways, this shift represents growth—an evolution from dependence on finite resources to stewardship of infinite ones.

Environmental Justice: A Houston Priority

For Houston Style Magazine readers, this conversation goes beyond science—it’s about community.

Environmental impact is not distributed equally. Historically underserved communities often bear the greatest burden of pollution, flooding, and industrial exposure. That’s why Houston’s forward momentum must also prioritize environmental justice—ensuring that cleaner air, safer water, and sustainable infrastructure benefit every neighborhood.

Programs tied to workforce development, such as hydrogen job training and green energy careers, are opening doors for communities across the Gulf South. These efforts not only address environmental concerns but also empower the next generation with opportunity and economic mobility.

Earth Day Is More Than a Moment—It’s a Movement

Earth Day isn’t just about reflection—it’s about action.

Whether it’s supporting clean energy initiatives, reducing waste, advocating for policy change, or simply educating the next generation, every step matters. The collective power of small actions, multiplied across millions, can reshape the future.

Houston understands this. From city leadership to community organizations, from classrooms to corporate boardrooms, the message is clear: protecting our planet is not optional—it’s essential.

A Future Worth Building

The idea of stewardship—caring for the Earth as something sacred, something entrusted to us—resonates across belief systems and backgrounds. It reminds us that progress and preservation are not opposing forces. They can—and must—coexist.

This Earth Day, Houston stands at the intersection of responsibility and opportunity. The path forward is not about sacrifice—it’s about smarter choices, better technology, and a shared commitment to something greater than us.

Because in the end, protecting our planet isn’t just about saving the Earth.

It’s about securing the future—for our children, our communities, and generations yet to come.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Kierra Lee
KIELEESTYLE@GMAIL.COM
4096658446

By Stephanie Moore

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    ASHEVILLE, North Carolina (WYFF) — A couple from New Mexico appeared in federal court in Asheville this week and pleaded guilty to smuggling counterfeit Native American jewelry made in Vietnam and selling it to customers in the United States as authentic, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Kiem Thanh Huynh, 60, and My Ngoc Truong, 61, pleaded guilty to misrepresentation of Indian goods in an amount greater than $1,000, in violation of the federal Indian Arts and Crafts Act, and smuggling.

According to filed documents and the plea hearing, Huynh and Truong co-owned MT Jewelry MFG., Inc. (MT Jewelry) located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The business, marketed to wholesale customers, claimed on its website that it specialized “in creating unique and handmade southwestern jewelry.” Huynh and Truong traveled to trade shows throughout the United States, including in Western North Carolina, where they sold their merchandise as authentic Native American jewelry.

According to plea documents, much of the jewelry sold by the defendants was not Indian produced or the product of an Indian tribe. Between December 2023 and July 2024, law enforcement intercepted six shipments from Vietnam that were destined for MT Jewelry. The shipments contained jewelry, including pendants, bracelets and rings, made in Vietnam to resemble Native American-style jewelry. The jewelry was adorned with unique stones and/or fish or wildlife products and was marked with inscriptions and other hallmarks commonly used by artists to authenticate their handicrafts. As importers of jewelry, Huynh and Truong failed to mark the items with country-of-origin or other commercially feasible markers to indicate they were imported before selling them.

In pleading guilty, the defendants admitted that, on two occasions, Huynh and Truong attended GLW Shows in Western North Carolina where they sold counterfeit jewelry contained in shipments intercepted by investigators. Huynh and Truong falsely claimed that the jewelry was made by Native American artists at their shop in Albuquerque and that their workers were Navajo. As Huynh and Truong admitted in court, the defendants knew the jewelry they were selling was made in Vietnam by non-Indians and that they falsely sold these items as authentic Native American handicraft.

Huynh and Truong will remain out of custody pending sentencing. At sentencing, they face a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison for the Indian Arts and Crafts Act violation and up to 20 years for the smuggling charge. They have agreed to forfeit $341,967.98, constituting the proceeds of their crimes.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Hannah Murphy

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    MONTGOMERY, Alabama (WVTM) — The Civil Rights Memorial Center is bringing a new traveling exhibition to Montgomery.

Opening April 28, 2026, Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See offers an interactive, immersive experience focused on the life, death and legacy of Emmett Till.

Visitors can move through several hands-on installations designed to bring history to life. “Eyewitness Account” lets guests pick up a rotary telephone to hear a firsthand account of Till’s kidnapping.

“Emmett Till Funeral” presents a scrolling series of photographs capturing the return of his body for burial.

In “Courtroom Sketchpad,” visitors can explore how the murder trial unfolded through recreated sketches and explanations.

The exhibit will remain on view through August 2026.

Admission is included with general entry to the Civil Rights Memorial Center. Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for ages 8 to 17, and free for children 7 and younger.

You can purchase admission here.

Organizers say the exhibition is designed to help visitors better understand the lasting impact of Till’s death and why his story continues to resonate today.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By WLS Digital Team

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    CHICAGO (WLS) — The CTA is laying off unarmed private security guards.

About a month ago, the transit agency unveiled a new security plan that includes more police patrols.

The plan was in response to an order from the Trump administration to improve safety for riders following multiple high-profile crimes on the CTA.

The new security plan includes a 75% increase in policing hours and more patrolling from both the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

The new plan also includes an expansion of the CTA’s mental health outreach to connect people with social services and housing.

The union representing the guards confirmed that on Friday, the CTA laid off 159 members employed by Monterrey Security.

The CTA released a statement, saying the funding will instead be directed to sworn police officers and other security resources.

“The CTA is strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives. Funding previously allocated to unarmed security guards will instead be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other security resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe,” the CTA said.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.