Author: CNN Newsource

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    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

Click here for updates on this story

    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
7139275444

By Lisa Valadez

Click here for updates on this story

    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
7139275444

By Lisa Valadez

Click here for updates on this story

    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
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
7139275444

By Brian Johnson

Click here for updates on this story

    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.

By Jason Burger

Click here for updates on this story

    CHICKASHA, Oklahoma (KOCO) — A collective sigh of relief was felt in Chickasha, as 12-year-old Ryan “RJ” Davis was found alive on Sunday after being missing for more than a week.

The United Cajun Navy, a nonprofit organization, located RJ in a shelter north of Cement, not far from the property where he lived with his mother and stepfather, Kimberly and George Cole.

“Whatever we can do to help a child, we’re going to do it,” said Thomas Gentile, a volunteer with the United Cajun Navy. “If you have a skill set and you’re able to apply it, especially for a good cause and anything that helps children.”

After appearing in court on Monday, George attempted to take his own life in his jail cell. He survived and was taken to the hospital for further testing.

The community, including residents of Chickasha and surrounding Grady and Caddo counties, had spent the weekend searching for RJ, and his safe return was met with a collective sigh of relief.

“I was worried that he was no longer—I thought, you know, chances are slim, but kept hoping and praying,” said Vaughn Craddock, a neighbor.

Both suspects are expected to return to court in April.

In the days following RJ’s discovery, George and Kimberly Cole were charged with multiple offenses, including abuse and sexual abuse. Hunter McKee from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said the agency is working closely with the Department of Human Services to ensure RJ is placed in a safe home.

“The OSBI and the Chickasha Police Department, we’re going to work closely with DHS to make sure that RJ is put into a safe home, which he deserves at this time moving forward, of course,” McKee 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.