Author: CNN Newsource

By Francis Page Jr.

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    May 11, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — As Pride Month 2026 approaches, Houston is preparing for one of the city’s most influential and inspiring gatherings of the year — the 10th Annual Pride In Business Celebration Luncheon + After Party hosted by the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. Set for Thursday, June 12, 2026, at the iconic Hilton Americas-Houston, this year’s milestone event promises to be the largest and boldest celebration in the organization’s history.

Leading the charge as Co-Chair is Dr. Jacquie Baly, whose leadership, vision, and commitment to inclusive economic growth continue to elevate conversations surrounding equity, entrepreneurship, and opportunity throughout the Houston region.

“This luncheon has grown into the largest LGBTQ business luncheon in the country,” Dr. Baly shared, “bringing together more than 1,000 business leaders, elected officials, entrepreneurs, and community advocates from across the region and beyond.”

And Houston Style Magazine readers know exactly what that means: when Houston’s business community gathers with purpose, culture, and celebration at the center, powerful things happen.

A Decade of Progress — And the Beginning of Something Bigger

This year’s theme — “Honoring a Decade of Progress. Igniting the Next Era of Impact.” — captures both the remarkable journey of the Chamber and the exciting momentum driving Houston’s inclusive business future.

For ten years, the Pride In Business Celebration has evolved into a premier economic and leadership event where business meets community and where diversity fuels innovation. What began as a growing regional gathering has transformed into a nationally recognized celebration of LGBTQ+ economic impact, leadership excellence, and entrepreneurial empowerment.

Now, in 2026, the event moves into the stunning Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Americas-Houston, signaling a new era of expansion and visibility.

Attendees can expect: A dynamic Pride In Business Expo before and after the luncheon, An elevated awards celebration honoring outstanding business and community leaders, Powerful keynote speakers and inspiring storytelling, Networking opportunities with more than 1,000 influential leaders and One of Houston’s most anticipated Pride Month After Parties.

From elected officials and Fortune 500 executives to small business owners and nonprofit advocates, this event reflects the incredible diversity and economic power shaping modern Houston.

Why This Celebration Matters

At its heart, Pride In Business is more than a luncheon — it is a statement about the future of Houston’s economy.

The event shines a spotlight on the importance of inclusive leadership, equitable business growth, and creating pathways where talent from every background can thrive. In a city as globally connected and culturally rich as Houston, that message resonates deeply.

Dr. Jacquie Baly emphasized the broader mission behind her role as Co-Chair: “Strong economies are built when talent, entrepreneurship, and opportunity are fully engaged. The Chamber does critical work supporting business growth, job creation, and economic participation across our region.”

photo Dr. Jacquie Baly

That philosophy mirrors Houston itself — a city powered by resilience, diversity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Bigger. Bolder. More Impactful Than Ever.

The numbers alone tell the story: Attendance records continue to grow year after year, More than 1,000 attendees are expected in 2026, Expanded programming and a larger event footprint are planned and Enhanced networking and sponsorship opportunities continue to attract regional and national attention.

With momentum building quickly, organizers encourage attendees and supporters to secure tickets and sponsorships early.

Event Details – 10th Annual Pride In Business Celebration Luncheon + After Party

Thursday, June 12, 2026 • Hilton Americas-Houston – 1600 Lamar Street, Houston, Texas

Ticket Deadlines – Early Bird Deadline: Friday, May 15, 2026 • Final Ticket Deadline: Friday, June 5, 2026

As Houston continues proving itself to be one of America’s most dynamic and inclusive business cities, this landmark celebration stands as both a reflection of progress made and a powerful preview of the future ahead.

And if 2026 is any indication — the next decade is going to be extraordinary. #TeamStyleMag #HSM

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.

Click here for updates on this story

    May 11, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ accelerates, excitement is exploding from Houston to Hollywood — and around the globe. For the first time in FIFA World Cup™ history, three nations — the United States, Mexico, and Canada — will unite to launch the largest sporting event the world has ever seen with an unprecedented series of Opening Ceremonies designed to celebrate culture, music, diversity, and the universal power of football.

Beginning Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Mexico City and continuing Friday, June 12, 2026, in Toronto and Los Angeles, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Opening Ceremonies promise to deliver an electrifying global spectacle that reaches far beyond the pitch. For Houston Style Magazine readers — especially the diverse and hard-to-reach communities that represent the heartbeat of Houston — this moment symbolizes far more than sports. It is a celebration of international unity, cultural pride, representation, and opportunity.

The spotlight will shine brightest in Los Angeles, where the United States officially welcomes the world with a blockbuster entertainment showcase worthy of the world’s entertainment capital. Global music icons Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA, Rema, and Tyla are set to headline the star-studded festivities, creating a powerful soundtrack for what FIFA President Gianni Infantino describes as a transformational moment in sports and culture.

“This opening ceremony in Los Angeles represents the extraordinary scale of what the FIFA World Cup 2026™ will become,” Infantino said, noting that the artist lineup reflects the cultural diversity and global diasporas that define America itself. And Houston understands that spirit better than almost any city in America.

As one of the most multicultural cities in the nation — where African American, Latino, Caribbean, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, and immigrant communities thrive side-by-side — Houston is already embracing World Cup fever. The city’s global identity makes it uniquely positioned to celebrate the tournament’s themes of inclusion, international connection, and shared human experience.

The Opening Ceremonies will also feature artists connected to the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album, including Elyanna and Jessie Reyez, whose newly released single Illuminate is expected to become one of the tournament’s defining anthems. Their participation reinforces FIFA’s effort to connect music, storytelling, and football into one unforgettable worldwide celebration.

Fans attending the Los Angeles ceremony are encouraged to arrive early, as festivities begin 90 minutes before kickoff, with immersive experiences, live entertainment activations, and interactive fan engagement opportunities planned throughout the stadium. Produced in partnership with Balich Wonder Studio, the ceremonies will feature massive visuals, immersive storytelling, and emotionally charged performances designed to unite audiences across continents.

photo FIFA Partners

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will also make history with a record-breaking 104 matches played across 16 Host Cities throughout North America, culminating with the championship final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at New York New Jersey Stadium.

For Houston families, students, soccer fans, and underserved communities dreaming of global opportunities, the World Cup represents more than entertainment. It signals economic growth, tourism, youth inspiration, international collaboration, and expanded visibility for communities that are too often overlooked.

From neighborhood watch parties to youth soccer leagues, from cultural festivals to international business partnerships, the road to FIFA World Cup 2026™ is already creating momentum that will ripple through Houston long before the first whistle blows.

The world is coming to North America — and Houston is ready to shine. For tickets and tournament information, visit: FIFA.com/tickets

#FIFAWorldCup2026 #WorldCupHouston #HoustonStyleMagazine #TeamStyleMag #HSM

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 KAKE News Staff

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    WICHITA, Kansas (KAKE) — A 54-year-old man has been charged nearly a year after he allegedly crashed his pickup truck into a Wichita home, critically injuring a sleeping teenager.

Christopher Alexander was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on Sunday. Online court records show he’s charged with three counts of aggravated battery while driving under the influence, possession of drugs and paraphernalia, and driving while suspended. His bond was set at $150,000.

Deandre “Junior” Rogers Jr. was asleep in his bed on the morning of June 2 when a pickup truck crashed into his home near Friends University. The truck entered through Junior’s bedroom and hit him. Junior, who was 18 years old at the time, became trapped under the truck and was quickly extricated by the Wichita Fire Department.

Police said the pickup truck was heading south, allegedly at a high rate of speed, when it left the road and entered the house.

“The truck entered the home through a bedroom, hitting an 18-year-old male who was asleep in bed,” WPD spokesperson Brad Wright said in June. “It continued through the bedroom into the living room, where it struck several more victims who were also sleeping.”

Junior, who had just graduated from Wichita West High School a month prior, was rushed to a local hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. A fundraiser started for him says he had plans to attend Friends University in the fall and play the game he loves, football, according to a GoFundMe to help with medical care, therapy and recovery costs.

After emergency brain and skull surgery, Junior was placed into a medically induced coma and put on a ventilator, the GoFundMe says. A brain monitor was installed to track his brain activity, and doctors later confirmed significant damage to the right side of his brain.

Ten days after the crash, doctors took Junior off the ventilator, and he began breathing on his own. The next morning, he took his first sips of water and a few spoonfuls of applesauce.

In an update that same month, Junior’s parents said he would be transferred to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Nebraska. At the time, doctors predicted it would take him six months to a year to recover. No updates have been provided since.

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 Francis Page Jr

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    May 11, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a powerful display of progress, pride, and public safety leadership, the Rosenberg officially unveiled its brand-new Fire Station No. 1 during a celebratory ribbon-cutting and traditional uncoupling ceremony held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 — a milestone moment signaling a brighter, safer future for one of Fort Bend County’s fastest-growing communities.

photo City of Rosenborg Celebrates Ribbon Cutting

Located at 1021 4th Street in Rosenberg’s Historic District, the modernized station represents far more than bricks and mortar. It symbolizes resilience, strategic investment, and the City’s unwavering commitment to protecting families, businesses, and future generations across the region.

The impressive public safety project was made possible through a combination of local investment and state partnership, including a $4.1 million Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) award from the Texas General Land Office. The remaining funding was strategically allocated from the City’s Fiscal Year 2022 and 2023 budgets — a move city leaders say reflects Rosenberg’s proactive approach to strengthening infrastructure without increasing the tax burden on residents.

Houston Style Magazine readers understand that communities thrive when leadership invests in the essentials — and few essentials matter more than emergency response readiness. The ceremony brought together current and former City Council members, firefighters past and present, city officials, residents, architects, contractors, and community supporters for an emotional and inspiring celebration rooted in both history and hope. One of the most memorable highlights was the traditional “uncoupling ceremony,” a deeply respected fire service ritual that honors the evolution of firefighting while paying tribute to generations of first responders who have served before.

Symbolically, uncoupling the hose marks the completion of a fire call and the moment a station officially goes “in service.” It is a ceremonial transition from preparation to protection.

“This hose uncoupling bridges our past and our future,” said Fire Chief Maretka during the event. “It marks not just the opening of a building, but the beginning of a new chapter in fire service for the City of Rosenberg. We are proud to place this station into service, and we look forward to continuing our mission of protecting this community with honor and dedication.”

And that future is arriving with strength.

The newly enhanced Fire Station No. 1 features state-of-the-art apparatus bays, expanded operational areas, upgraded firefighter living quarters, and improved emergency response capabilities designed to meet the growing demands of the Rosenberg community for decades to come.

City Manager Joyce Vasut emphasized the broader impact of the project, calling the station a reflection of Rosenberg’s long-term vision for resilience and public service excellence.

“Fire Station No. 1 reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting our residents and strengthening our community’s resilience,” Vasut said. “We are grateful to the Texas General Land Office for their support in making this important project possible.”

As Greater Houston communities continue expanding westward and southwestward, Rosenberg is positioning itself as a city focused not only on growth — but smart, sustainable growth anchored by safety, preparedness, and community-first leadership. For Houston Style Magazine readers, the message is clear:

Rosenberg is not simply building a fire station. The city is building confidence, preparedness, and peace of mind.

For additional information about the City of Rosenberg and Fire Station No. 1, visit City of Rosenberg or call 832-595-3301. #TeamStyleMag #HSM

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 Ben Jealous

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    May 11, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In politics, fear has a color. For most of American history, that color has been Black. No ad has taught that lesson more brutally than the Willie Horton ad of 1988. It showed the face of a Black man convicted of murder. It blamed Michael Dukakis for a furlough program. It told voters mercy was dangerous.

After that, clemency withered. Democrats especially learned to treat grace as a trap. To this day, too many Democratic politicians fear using their clemency powers. Even when their cowardice means people receive punishment they do not deserve.

Republican governors and presidents have often been more sweeping. Our nation’s current president has used the pardon power boldly and repeatedly. He has never seemed afraid of the power itself. Too many Democrats still are.

This spring marks 10 years since the Bernie Sanders campaign made a very different kind of ad. Nearly three decades after Willie Horton, I asked the campaign to do the opposite. Put a Black man convicted of murder in a presidential ad. Not to destroy the campaign. To strengthen it.

His name was Chris Wilson.

Chris grew up in Baltimore. He saw violence young. At 17, he took a man’s life. He went to prison.

There is no hiding from that truth. There should not be. But Chris did what we say we want people to do. He took responsibility. He educated himself. He built a master plan for his life. He came home determined to work, mentor, and help others escape the traps that nearly swallowed him.

At the time, Chris was painting my house. When the campaign came to film the ad, Chris helped find the location.

To me, his story was not a liability. It was the point. Real public safety requires redemption. Prevention. Education. Jobs. Second chances.

The idea carried risk. Given the legacy of Willie Horton, some had concerns. That was understandable. This was not a safe testimonial. It was a direct challenge to a powerful racial taboo. But in a nation with the highest incarceration rate on Earth, Willie Horton politics had trained campaigns to distrust voters. My experience told me voters were better than that.

Years earlier, I had been part of polling for a big-box retailer that wanted to know what would happen if customers learned it provided second-chance employment for formerly incarcerated people. Customers said they would be more likely to shop there. The company stood to gain market share, not lose it.

People were ready to believe in second chances. Politics just had to catch up.

Everyone signed off on taking the risk. The campaign made the ad. The name said it all: “Be Bold, Change the System.” There was Chris, looking into the camera, telling the truth. No hiding. No sugarcoating. No mug shot. No monster. Just a man. A Black man. A Baltimore man. A man who had caused harm, paid a terrible price, and fought to become a force for good.

It was the anti-Willie Horton ad.

The Willie Horton ad said Black men are the reason to fear mercy. The Chris Wilson ad said Black men are among the reasons to believe in redemption.

And it worked. The ad drew roughly a million clicks in the first 24 hours. It sent Bernie’s support up fast in Illinois. It was used powerfully in Michigan and Missouri. It moved people because it trusted them.

Chris later received a book contract. The Master Plan told how he refused to let prison be the end of his life. That work became the basis for an education program that has trained more than 100,000 incarcerated people.

Today, Chris is a celebrated artist whose paintings sell for tens of thousands of dollars.

That is what Willie Horton politics never wants America to see. It wants to freeze a Black man forever at the worst moment of his life. Chris Wilson proves something else. Redemption does not erase accountability. It fulfills it.

Ten years later, the lesson is urgent. Willie Horton politics is still with us. It has changed targets. Today, the scary Black man in the old ad has too often become the scary brown immigrant in the new one. Campaigns still take one terrible crime, attach it to a whole people, and tell voters mercy, due process, and fairness will get them killed.

The faces change. The formula does not.

The Chris Wilson ad, and the life he has led since, prove the best way to combat racist, authoritarian propaganda is with the bold and transformative truth.

Bold enough to believe accountability and redemption can live in the same sentence. Bold enough to trust voters with the full humanity of a Black man who changed his life. Bold enough to bury the politics Willie Horton made famous — and build a politics worthy of the people of every color we too often leave behind. In America, the color of trust is the color of the blood in all our hearts — red and blue, flowing together as one.

Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and former president and CEO of the NAACP.

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