Author: CNN Newsource

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Human trafficking is one of the most urgent human rights crises of our time—hidden in plain sight, fueled by exploitation, and sustained by silence. This January, as Texas observes Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the message is unmistakable: freedom is non-negotiable, and communities like Houston are drawing a firm line against abuse.

Led by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), the state is elevating prevention, education, and survivor support through coordinated programs that place people—especially the most vulnerable—at the center. A statewide proclamation from Greg Abbott reinforces the urgency, calling on Texans to recognize trafficking for what it is: a crime that robs individuals of liberty and undermines public safety.

A Crime That Touches Every Community

Human trafficking includes sexual exploitation and forced labor, and it does not discriminate by age, gender, or background. In a global hub like Houston—home to major ports, highways, and a world-class medical corridor—prevention requires vigilance, coordination, and compassion. Traffickers depend on invisibility; communities defeat trafficking by making it visible.

Health Care Providers on the Front Lines

One of Texas’ most effective strategies focuses on health care professionals, who often encounter survivors while exploitation is ongoing. HHSC emphasizes awareness training so providers can identify warning signs and respond appropriately—without judgment, fear, or delay. Compassionate care can be the first safe doorway out of harm.

HEART: Turning Awareness into Action

A cornerstone of this effort is HEART—Hearing, Evaluating, Activating, Resourcing, and Training. This free training equips health care workers to recognize indicators of trafficking and take survivor-centered steps toward help. The results are tangible: more than 109,000 Texas health care providers completed HEART training between September 2024 and August 2025, dramatically expanding the state’s capacity to intervene early and effectively.

Connecting Survivors to Support

The HHSC Human Trafficking Resource Center anchors statewide prevention by funding initiatives, offering specialized training, and connecting survivors to critical services—from emergency shelter and counseling to legal advocacy. Texas also participates in the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, a coalition of more than 50 organizations working together to educate the public, identify victims, strengthen prosecutions, and recommend policies that close gaps traffickers exploit.

How Texans Can Help—Every Day

Prevention isn’t limited to professionals. Texans can report suspicious activity through iWatchTexas, support survivor services by purchasing the “Stop Human Trafficking” specialty license plate, and stay informed about the signs of trafficking. Small actions, multiplied across millions of residents, create powerful deterrence.

Houston’s Leadership Moment

Houston’s strength has always been its people—diverse, resilient, and ready to protect one another. Ending trafficking means believing survivors, asking hard questions, and refusing to look away. Awareness opens eyes; action saves lives.

If You Suspect Trafficking

Call 9-1-1 if someone is in immediate danger National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 (TTY: 711) Text: 233733 Online Chat: National Human Trafficking Hotline

Houston Style Magazine Takeaway: Human trafficking has no place in Texas. With education, accountability, and compassion—powered by community leadership—Houston is proving that freedom is a right worth defending, every day, for everyone.

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.

Francis Page, Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
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By Burt Levine

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Fort Bend County has never been shy about growth—or about redefining what the future of Texas leadership looks like. Now approaching the one-million-resident milestone, this nationally recognized hub of diversity, education, and economic momentum is witnessing a County Judge race as dynamic and multifaceted as the community itself. With Early Voting beginning Tuesday, February 17, 2026, ahead of the Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Super Tuesday Primary, voters are preparing to choose among 10 accomplished, highly educated, and culturally diverse candidates vying for one of the most influential local offices in Texas.

While statewide contests for U.S. Senate, Governor, and Attorney General dominate headlines, seasoned civic observers know the real day-to-day impact of government is felt closest to home. The Fort Bend County Judge presides over Commissioners Court and plays a central role in public safety, infrastructure, flood control, economic development, criminal justice, and quality of life—issues that shape neighborhoods long after national campaign signs come down.

A Field That Mirrors Fort Bend’s Demographics—and Ambition

The incumbent, KP George, made history in 2018 as the first Indian-American County Judge in Texas, bringing experience from his service as a Fort Bend ISD School Board Trustee. His leadership now faces a broad and energetic slate of challengers, each bringing a distinct background and vision.

Among them is Kenneth Omoruyi, a Nigerian-American CPA emphasizing fiscal discipline and accountability, and Daniel Wong, a Chinese-American professional engineer who underscores infrastructure resilience and public service. Daryl Aaron, a U.S. Army veteran and attorney from Rosenberg, brings a leadership-through-service narrative, while Melissa Wilson, a construction company CEO, stands poised to become the first Black and first woman County Judge should she prevail.

The race continues with Christian Becerra, a twice-elected countywide District Judge whose family’s civil-rights legacy in Rosenberg spans more than a century. He is joined by Rachelle Carter, a Sugar Land Municipal Judge known for courtroom experience and community engagement.

Adding further depth are Dr. Cynthia Lenton-Gary, a former Missouri City Council Member and Houston Community College Trustee with a strong education and workforce focus; Dexter McCoy, a first-term Fort Bend County Commissioner whose career began in President Barack Obama’s White House and who many consider a frontrunner; and Eddie Sajjad, an Indian-American entrepreneur known for innovative Get-Out-The-Vote technology and long-standing local Democratic activism.

A County Built on Education, Opportunity, and Ownership

This unprecedented field reflects Fort Bend County’s remarkable profile. According to the most recent U.S. Census estimates, the county’s population of roughly 958,000 residents is among the most diverse in America—27.9% White, 25% Hispanic, 23.2% Asian, and 22.8% African American. Homeownership stands at an impressive 77.5%, digital connectivity exceeds 94%, and nearly half of residents over 25 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Add to that tens of thousands of minority- and women-owned businesses, and you have a community deeply invested in smart governance and inclusive growth.

Key Dates Every Voter Should Know

Last day to register to vote: Monday, February 2, 2026 Early Voting begins: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Primary Election Day: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Last day to apply for Ballot by Mail: Friday, February 20, 2026 Runoff Election (if needed): Tuesday, May 28, 2026

Why This Race Matters—Now More Than Ever

In Fort Bend County, the County Judge’s race isn’t just crowded—it’s consequential. It represents a community confident enough to debate ideas vigorously, diverse enough to offer multiple paths forward, and engaged enough to show up at the polls. For Houston-area readers, this election underscores a broader truth: local leadership is where progress becomes personal.

As Fort Bend County charts its next chapter, voters hold the pen. The choice they make this spring will help define how one of America’s most successful counties continues to grow—fairly, boldly, and together.

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.

Francis Page, Jr
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By Lisa Valadez

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 is gaining momentum as the brand prepares to debut as the Cadillac Formula 1 Team at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8. The move marks a significant milestone for both Cadillac and American motorsport on the global stage.

General Motors recently unveiled the team’s Special Edition testing livery at its new global headquarters in Detroit, signaling the next phase of Cadillac’s journey to the Formula 1 grid. The livery will be used during the all team Shakedown Week in Barcelona from January 26 through January 30, ahead of the official race livery reveal on February 8.

Developed through a collaboration between GM Global Design and the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, the testing livery features a monochrome, precision driven design inspired by a modern interpretation of the Cadillac crest. As with traditional Formula 1 testing liveries, the look is designed to disguise aerodynamic details while maintaining a strong brand identity through clean lines, geometric patterns, and a premium finish.

A replica Formula 1 car wearing the Barcelona Shakedown livery was also displayed as part of GM’s headquarters opening week and will remain on view at the Detroit Auto Show through January 25.

The reveal in Detroit ties Cadillac’s Formula 1 ambitions to its roots, with GM’s new headquarters located near the brand’s original home. With testing set to begin in Spain and the season opener fast approaching, Cadillac’s Formula 1 debut represents a defining moment as the brand brings its design heritage and performance ambitions to the pinnacle of global motorsport. More info: Cadillac.com

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.

Francis Page, Jr
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By Francis Page, Jr.

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Detroit has always known how to throw a party—with purpose. And in 2026, the Motor City’s most glamorous night returns in unforgettable style as the Detroit Auto Show launches its milestone season with the iconic Charity Preview, a black-tie celebration that blends world-class entertainment, cutting-edge automotive innovation, and decades of heartfelt philanthropy.

For Houston Style Magazine readers who appreciate culture with a cause, this is one winter event worth circling in bold.

A Headliner That Bridges Generations

Taking center stage for the 2026 Charity Preview is international superstar Robin Thicke, whose smooth vocals and chart-topping hits promise to transform Huntington Place into a Motown-meets-modern-soul experience. Known for seamlessly blending contemporary R&B with classic influences, Thicke’s performance will resonate across generations—much like Detroit itself.

A five-time GRAMMY® Award nominee and diamond-selling artist, Thicke’s résumé reads like a soundtrack to pop and R&B history. From early collaborations with Michael Jackson and Usher to his own platinum-selling catalog, his presence adds global star power to a night rooted deeply in community impact.

Detroit Legends Bring the City’s Energy Home

Because no Detroit celebration is complete without hometown icons, the entertainment lineup proudly features legendary rapper Trick Trick, delivering a moment that’s unmistakably only in Detroit. His raw authenticity and cultural influence will add edge, pride, and unpredictability to the evening.

Setting the tone from the moment doors open is Detroit native DJ Rimarkable (Maria “Ri Ri” Garcia), whose signature remix style will keep the night moving with a soundtrack inspired by the city’s past, present, and future.

Guiding the celebration as Master of Ceremonies is none other than Jalen Rose—Fab Five legend, broadcaster, and founder of the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy. His commitment to education and youth empowerment makes him the perfect steward for an evening dedicated to children and community.

Fifty Years of Giving Back—And Still Going Strong

Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview is more than a glamorous gala—it’s one of the most successful philanthropic automotive events in the world. Since its founding in 1976, the Charity Preview has raised more than $125 million for children’s charities across Southeast Michigan.

Proceeds from the 2026 event will benefit six vital organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, Detroit PAL, The Children’s Center, The Children’s Foundation, the Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund, and University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital—ensuring the night’s impact lasts long after the final encore.

First Look at the Future of Mobility

Beyond the music and martinis, Charity Preview guests enjoy exclusive first access to the auto show floor—where the world’s most innovative vehicles debut. From next-generation EVs to immersive mobility experiences, attendees can see, touch, and even ride in the cars shaping tomorrow.

As Detroit Auto Show Executive Director Sam Klemet notes, the evening uniquely reflects Detroit’s ability to unite automotive excellence, cultural pride, and community impact—a formula Houston knows well.

Event Details at a Glance – Charity Preview Friday, January 16, 2026 • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Huntington Place | Detroit • Tickets: $400 individual | $700 per pair Available at detroitautoshow.com

Why Houston Is Watching Detroit

From Houston to Detroit, cities built on innovation understand the power of industry paired with intention. The Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview isn’t just a night out—it’s a reminder that progress moves fastest when culture, creativity, and community drive together.

Black tie. Big heart. Bold future.

For tickets, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments, visit detroitautoshow.com and follow the Detroit Auto Show on social media.

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.

Francis Page, Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
7139275444

By Lisa Valadez

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Texas Southern University has achieved a historic milestone, earning the nationally recognized Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, a prestigious designation that highlights universities where community engagement is deeply embedded in research, teaching, service, and institutional practice.

Fewer than 10% of the nearly 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the United States hold the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, placing Texas Southern among an elite group of universities committed to public purpose. The university is the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in Texas to receive the honor, joining a select category of research-active institutions that also maintain a strong mission-driven focus.

“This designation affirms Texas Southern University’s longstanding commitment to advancing education, research excellence, and societal impact through meaningful community partnerships,” said President J.W. Crawford III. “It reflects the work of faculty, students, staff, and community partners who have collaboratively shaped research, teaching, service, and outreach to address real-world challenges and improve outcomes locally and beyond.”

Unlike Carnegie research classifications, which emphasize research expenditures and doctoral output, the Community Engagement Classification evaluates how universities work with communities through mutually beneficial and reciprocal partnerships. The elective designation requires a rigorous application process, including extensive qualitative and quantitative evidence showing that community engagement is institutionalized, assessed, and sustained.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Carl B. Goodman emphasized the impact of these partnerships: “Community engagement at Texas Southern University facilitates reciprocal partnerships that shape teaching, research, and institutional practice. These collaborations add value to the community and affirm our commitment to academic excellence grounded in shared purpose and public impact.”

Texas Southern’s commitment to community engagement is evident across its academic programs:

Culturally Responsive Educators: The College of Education partners with PreK–12 schools to prepare teachers who gain hands-on classroom experience while supporting local schools and families.

Mental Health Access and Workforce Development: In collaboration with Mental Health America of Greater Houston, faculty and students help connect residents to mental health services and host internship fairs for future counseling professionals.

Community-Focused Health Education: Doctor of Pharmacy students participate in service-learning projects that support health initiatives across diverse Houston communities.

Public Service and Professional Practice: Master of Public Administration students complete internships with government and nonprofit agencies, contributing to community development, policy analysis, and program evaluation.

Social Work Internships: Senior social work students complete 450 hours of supervised fieldwork across 16 Houston ZIP codes, expanding access to social services.

Arts, Culture, and Community Storytelling: The English Department partners with organizations like Kindred Stories to host literary events that engage students and the public, amplifying diverse voices.

This recognition further distinguishes Texas Southern as a research-active institution with a mission-driven focus. Combined with its Carnegie R2 (Doctoral University with High Research Activity) status, the university now holds a rare dual designation that positions it as a leader among HBCUs nationwide.

Nationally, the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is increasingly seen as a marker of readiness for federal agencies, foundations, and philanthropic organizations focused on social impact. For Texas Southern, the designation strengthens opportunities for community-engaged research funding while aligning research growth with its institutional mission. More infor: 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.

Francis Page, Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
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By Lisa Valadez

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Texas communities, including those across the Greater Houston region, have a new opportunity to fund projects that make neighborhoods more livable for residents of all ages. AARP Texas is now accepting applications for its 2026 AARP Community Challenge Grant Program, with a deadline of March 4, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Central Time.

The annual program supports quick-turnaround projects designed to improve everyday life through enhancements to public spaces, transportation options, housing, digital access, and community resilience. Grants are part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which focuses on creating environments that are especially supportive of adults age 50 and older—while benefiting people of all generations.

Now in its tenth year, the Community Challenge will award more than $8 million nationwide in 2026. Since 2017, AARP has invested $24.3 million in more than 2,100 projects across the U.S. In Texas alone, nearly $705,000 has been awarded through 57 grants, including 12 projects funded in 2025.

“Through the Community Challenge grant program, AARP Texas works closely with local residents, advocates, and policymakers to improve the quality of life for people of all ages, especially Texans 50 and older,” said Lisa Rodriguez, AARP Texas director. “We’ve seen quick turn-around projects lead to very tangible and long-lasting improvements.”

Three Grant Opportunities Available

For 2026, applicants may apply under one of three categories:

Flagship Grants: Support improvements to public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and disaster resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars up to $15,000. Capacity-Building Microgrants: Provide $2,500 along with expert guidance, webinars, and cohort learning for projects focused on walkability, bikeability, home modifications, and disaster preparedness. Demonstration Grants: Fund scalable, replicable projects, with 2026 priorities including pedestrian safety, broadband expansion, and housing choice design competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, up to $25,000.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include:

501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations Local and state government entities Other organizations considered on a case-by-case basis

All projects must align with AARP’s mission to support people age 50 and older and be completed by December 15, 2026.

Houston-area nonprofits, municipalities, and community groups are encouraged to apply and bring innovative ideas forward that can make lasting local impact.

Applications and full program details are available at: AARP.org/CommunityChallenge

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.

Francis Page, Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
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By Lisa Valadez

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    January 13, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — The Houston Texans have named veteran sports executive Scott Shepherd as chief revenue officer to lead the team’s commercial and … The Houston Texans have hired Scott Shepherd as chief revenue officer, placing a veteran sports and entertainment executive in charge of the team’s primary revenue and commercial operations.

Shepherd will oversee ticket sales and membership services, partnerships and Luxe, and all aspects of commercial development as the Texans continue to grow their business footprint in the Houston market.

He joins the organization from Legends Global, where he most recently served as senior vice president and project leader for the Buffalo Bills’ New Highmark Stadium project from 2022 to 2025. Prior to that role, Shepherd held several senior leadership positions with the Washington Commanders, including chief partnership officer and senior vice president of corporate partnerships and hospitality. His background also includes serving as chief commercial officer at Guest Services, Inc., along with additional executive roles overseeing sales, marketing, events, and strategic alliances.

Shepherd began his career in professional sports in 2000 with the Tampa Bay Lightning and later worked with the Minnesota Vikings and the Columbus Blue Jackets. His experience spans the NFL, NHL, and large-scale venue and hospitality operations.

A graduate of the University of Lynchburg, Shepherd earned a degree in business administration with a minor in English and was a member of the school’s NCAA soccer team. He and his wife, Emily, have three daughters and family ties to the Houston area.

The appointment adds to the Texans’ executive leadership team as the franchise focuses on expanding revenue streams, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing its business operations. More info: HoustonTexans.com

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.

Francis Page, Jr
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By Brian Johnson

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    JACKSON COUNTY, Missouri (KMBC) — A proposed Jackson County ordinance would ban most law enforcement officers from wearing masks while on duty, requiring their faces and badges to remain visible except in limited situations such as undercover work, SWAT operations or the execution of warrants.

Ordinance 6050 would also require agencies to adopt written policies governing those exceptions and to report annually to county lawmakers on when and how they are used. Officers who violate the rule could face criminal misdemeanor charges and potential civil liability.

Jackson County Legislature Chair Manny Abarca III said the measure is designed to create uniform standards and accountability.

“This is a uniform policy. This isn’t anything that’s new or innovative. This is a very basic mechanism to keep us all safe,” Abarca said.

Abarca said he is open to amendments as lawmakers continue to debate the proposal.

“I don’t think there’s any advocate out there saying they want their law enforcement agencies to cover their badges, cover their faces, and cover their names. And so we just need to navigate through this political rhetoric,” he said.

The ordinance was first introduced last month. Abarca, a fourth-generation Mexican American, said he has been racially profiled by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the past and argued the legislation is needed as a check on what he described as the current administration’s approach to law enforcement.

“The aimlessness and approach and tactics of this administration, are counter to democracy, to our democratic values,” Abarca said. “And so that reality we need to check this administration, or it’s going to get worse, faster.”

Jackson County Sheriff Darryl Forte has criticized the proposal, saying it was written without input from officers and would restrict what he called “reasonable actions necessary to protect life.”

Sixth District Legislator Sean Smith also raised concerns about the measure’s impact on de-escalation in tense situations.

“We can simply de-escalate if both sides are willing to. And, I don’t think that telling them they can’t wear a mask is going to be effective,” Smith said.

County lawmakers are expected to continue discussions on the ordinance as it moves through the legislative process.

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.