Man hospitalized after being run over, dragged by truck following robbery Friday

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Shelby Lofton

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    LEHI (KSL) — A Utah County man is in the hospital after being run over and dragged down the street by a truck on Friday as he attempted to confront two alleged thieves.

The RC cars and miniature vehicles sold at A Mad Mans Hobby Store range from $100 to $1500. Teresa Mott runs and owns the store.

“It’s not a corporate thing or, you know, a big chain of stores. It comes out of my pocket,” Mott said.

Surveillance video captured two suspects stealing a car kit.

“This young couple comes in, needed a Traxxas part, so we got him the part,” Mott said. “And then the gentleman asked if he could look around.”

The woman appears to hold the door open, then the man picks up a $1,000 car and walks out without paying.

That’s when, Mott said, she told her employee, Mark Willson, about the theft.

“I says, ‘Hey, they just stole that Maxx,” Mott said.

Willson’s daughter, Shellie Vincent, said her dad began walking toward the couple’s truck, approaching the driver’s side door to confront them about the alleged theft.

Vincent said her dad saw the truck’s backup lights and grabbed onto its tailgate, trying to hop in, “so he didn’t get smashed.” She said her dad held on tight as the truck sped off, then they pulled over.

“As he was coming down and trying to get off of the truck, so he didn’t fall off, they sped off again, and it caught his feet and pulled him into the wheel well,” Vincent said.

A witness helped Mott find Willson about a block away from the store.

“His face is all smashed and blood dripping all over. His legs (were) pointed the wrong direction. He looked like a ragdoll,” Mott said.

Willson’s family said he has multiple broken bones and will need several surgeries.

“You never expect someone you care about, your dad, to be ran over and left in the middle of the street,” Vincent said. “It’s not right. Over an item.”

The Lehi City Police Department said the man and woman haven’t been identified. Mott said they were driving a newer black dodge ram with black rims and tinted windows.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. KSL verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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.

Customer robbed at gunpoint for Pokémon cards worth $300K; string of similar robberies across LA

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Sid Garcia

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    WEST LOS ANGELES (KABC) — In two separate cases just this weekend, thieves went after rare Pokémon cards, and the reported losses are in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

No arrests have been made in either incident.

On Sunday night at RWT Collective in West Los Angeles, one of the shop’s regulars was robbed at gunpoint of a collection of rare cards in the building’s underground parking lot.

Co-owners Danny Leserman and Christopher Chou shared images of the two suspects behind the robbery. When Los Angeles police detectives showed up, the victim positively identified them as the two men who robbed him.

“He was just leaving, just trying to go home,” Lesserman said.

The owners say they’re already working on adding more security.

“We’re going to keep increasing our security systems, too. We’re going to get more cameras into the building, things like that, Chou said.

There was already evidence of that on Monday. Property management had a crew installing surveillance cameras in the parking area and around the building.

The owners also say they’re working with property management on having armed guards at the store and the building.

The approximate value of the rare Pokémon cards stolen from the RWT Collective customer is around $300,000.

There’s been a string of similar robberies across Southern California. Also over the weekend, burglars broke into Simi Sportscards in Simi Valley, taking valuable Pokémon cards.

But what makes the cards so valuable?

“Most of the time, they’re used, and they’re not in good enough quality to be considered collectible. And so when they do rise to a level, that’s when the dollar amount can really get to be something pretty out there,” Leserman said.

Law enforcement officials say they’re comparing notes to see if the recent robberies are connected.

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.

Mead School District expresses condolences over woman hit by school bus

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Melissa Luck

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    SPOKANE, Wash (KXLY) — The Mead School District commented Tuesday on the death of a person hit by a district bus Monday night.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office says a bus driver hit a woman attempting to cross the street in a crosswalk near Mead High School.

The person killed has not been officially identified, but the district confirmed the victim was a former student.

The Mead School District shared this statement Tuesday morning:

We are devastated by the loss resulting from the tragic accident involving a Mead School District bus. Our hearts are with the family, friends, and loved ones, and we extend our deepest condolences and stand with them during this profoundly difficult time. Any time we lose a member of the Mead family, whether a current or former student, it has a widespread impact.

The district has dedicated counselors and additional support staff available on site to provide care and assistance for any students or staff who may need it. We will also continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement as they conduct their investigation.

The sheriff’s office says the investigation is ongoing, but they don’t believe the driver was impaired.

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.

Community demands accountability at vigil for father of 2 killed by off-duty ICE agent in Northridge

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Tim Pulliam

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    NORTHRIDGE, LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Community members in Northridge came together for a vigil on Sunday night in honor of a man shot and killed by an off-duty ICE agent on New Year’s Eve.

Authorities say the agent opened fire when the man pointed a rifle at him.

Now, Northridge community members and activists are mourning his death, expressing outrage and demanding justice.

Loved ones identified the man killed as 43-year-old Keith Porter, a father of two.

“If I could say anything to the ICE agent, it’s that you’re a murderer. You stole my cousin from me. You stole their father from them,” said Jsane’ Tyler, Porter’s cousin. “You stole a Black man off the planet that God ordained to live and thrive. You stole a human life, and you need to pay for it.”

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the off-duty ICE agent heard gunfire near his apartment and went outside to check it out.

That’s when DHS says the officer encountered Porter holding a long rifle.

Advocates say Porter was observing the holiday that night with gunfire.

“You don’t just get to murder people, because you don’t like what they’re doing or how they are doing or how they’re celebrating,” said Melina Abdullah, the co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles.

The agent reportedly identified himself as law enforcement, and that’s when DHS says Porter aimed the rifle at him. The agent then ordered Porter to put down the weapon, and when he didn’t comply, the off-duty officer fired his ICE-authorized gun.

The agency claims Porter fired three rounds at the officer before he died.

“This is sad. This is sad,” said family friend Bishop Jack Wilson.

“I’ve lived here 35 years. This is the first time such a thing has happened in my community,” said neighbor Judy Palachie.

As Los Angeles police investigate what led up to the shooting, the community wants witnesses to come forward. They also want the ICE agent identified, arrested and prosecuted for the killing of a man who they say was kind.

“He was the life of the party. He was the one that always gave you encouragement, that was mainly his role, to put a smile on people’s face,” Tyler said.

Black Lives Matter Los Angeles organized the vigil. They are demanding accountability from District Attorney Nathan Hochman, and say they are having a meeting with him on Monday.

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One Million Miles of Quiet Excellence: Art Belton and the Power of Showing Up

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    January 6, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a city that never stops moving, some heroes don’t wear capes—they wear uniforms, punch a clock, and safely carry thousands of Houstonians through their day. Meet Art Belton, a rail operator whose story is less about headlines and more about something Houston deeply respects: consistency, service, and pride in a job done right.

For more than four decades, Art Belton has been a steady presence at METRO, quietly building a career that now spans more than one million incident-free miles behind the wheel. That milestone isn’t just impressive—it’s rare. And in a region as vast and fast-paced as Houston, it’s a testament to discipline, training, and a deep sense of responsibility.

From Military Service to Moving Houston

Art’s journey with METRO began in 1985, shortly after completing his military service. Like many veterans returning to civilian life, he was focused on stability, family, and purpose. When he learned METRO was hiring, he applied—and never looked back.

“I enjoyed transporting passengers to their workplace,” Belton recalls. “Meeting people. They were friendly. I realized I had made a good choice.”

That choice led him across nearly every major bus route in Houston—Acres Homes, South Main, Bellaire, Richmond, Scott Street—long before METRORail lines reshaped the city’s transit map. For two decades, he mastered Houston’s streets from behind the wheel of a bus, learning the rhythm of neighborhoods and the unspoken responsibility that comes with carrying people’s lives in your hands.

A New Track, the Same Commitment

When METRO expanded into rail service, Art saw not just change—but opportunity. After 20 years as a bus operator, he transitioned to rail, embracing the technical precision and heightened focus the role demands.

“On the bus, you interact with passengers a lot more,” he explains. “On the train, you’re focused on the trackway moving from one end to the other. It’s a different kind of operation.”

Different, but no less meaningful. In fact, it sharpened the very qualities that would define his legacy.

One Million Miles, Zero Incidents

Reaching one million safe miles didn’t happen by accident. Art credits his success to METRO’s safety culture and a training philosophy known as the Smith System—a framework built on anticipation, caution, and preparation.

“It’s about being safe. It’s about preparation,” he says simply. “Those habits were instilled in us from day one.”

That mindset, paired with something even more powerful—showing up consistently carried him past the million-mile mark and beyond. Today, that number continues to grow.

Legacy Beyond the Tracks

Now 68, Art reflects less on accolades and more on what truly matters: providing for his family, staying healthy, and continuing to do work he enjoys.

“I never thought about accomplishments like this,” he admits. “I thought about coming to work, being consistent, and taking care of my family.”

His children—now adults—see the milestone differently. They see pride. Longevity. Proof that quiet excellence still counts.

Why Art Belton Matters to Houston

In an era obsessed with speed and spectacle, Art Belton represents something enduring: professionalism without ego. His story mirrors that of thousands of Houstonians who keep this city running—transit operators, utility workers, nurses, teachers—people whose impact is measured not in likes, but in lives touched safely and steadily.

Houston Style Magazine celebrates Art Belton not just for a million miles driven, but for a lifetime of service that reminds us all: greatness often rides quietly, right on time.

METRO moves because people like Art Belton show up. Every day.

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

Don’t Stop: One Houston Woman’s Return to College Proves It’s Never Too Late

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    January 6, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — There’s a powerful moment that arrives when you realize the finish line is still waiting for you—no matter how long the road has been. For Roshell Brisby, that moment came at age 45, armed with determination, faith, and a simple but life-changing message: Don’t stop. A single mother of four adult children and a proud grandmother, Brisby’s journey to college completion didn’t follow a straight line—and that’s exactly what makes it inspiring. Like so many Houstonians, she put her own dreams on pause to take care of family and work responsibilities. Education was always important, but life had other plans first. In 2018, Brisby took a major step forward by earning her GED and enrolling in an associate degree program at Houston City College (HCC). She was laser-focused on building a new career path—until unexpected health challenges forced her to step away from school just three classes short of graduating. Three classes. So close—yet so far. For years, the idea of returning stayed quietly on the back burner. Family and friends encouraged her not to give up, but balancing health, work, and family made the goal feel distant. Then came a call that changed everything. The Scholarship That Re-Opened the Door The Houston Reconnect Scholarship was designed for people just like Brisby—students who started college, stepped away, and still carried unfinished dreams. Through Houston Reconnect, HCC advisors reached out directly, removed financial barriers, and helped guide her back into the system with clarity and care. At first, Brisby admits she was skeptical. Was this real? Could she really juggle school again? The answer became clear thanks to the personalized support she received from her HCC Global Online advisor, Orlando Zamora. With encouragement, step-by-step guidance, and a realistic plan, she realized the finish line was no longer out of reach. “Don’t stop” became more than a phrase—it became her mission and the example she wanted to set for her children and grandson. Why Online Learning Made All the Difference To make it all work, Brisby chose HCC Global Online, allowing her to balance her job, care for her middle-school-aged grandson, and complete coursework on her schedule. Online classes gave her the flexibility to log in when life allowed, without sacrificing structure or accountability. The adjustment wasn’t effortless—but it was empowering. Clear expectations from instructors, consistent communication, and the ability to study in her own space helped her build confidence. Emailing professors, managing deadlines, and staying organized mirrored real-world professional skills, reinforcing that she belonged in this space. Most importantly, learning from home gave her peace of mind—the freedom to focus, breathe, and keep going. A Degree That Means More Than a Diploma Crossing the stage in her cap and gown represents far more than academic achievement. For Brisby, finishing college is proof that years of sacrifice mattered—and that she is worthy of the rewards of her hard work. Her children were her biggest cheerleaders every step of the way, offering encouragement during tough moments and celebrating each milestone. She hopes her journey shows them what perseverance, faith, and “mind over matter” can accomplish at any age. And she’s not done yet. What’s Next? Even Bigger Dreams Now an HCC graduate, Brisby is exploring new career opportunities, planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree, and even considering law school. The Houston Reconnect Scholarship didn’t just help her finish—it built a bridge to a different future. For anyone wondering if it’s too late to return to school, her message is clear and heartfelt: Your journey is your own. You are worth the effort. Don’t stop. Take it one assignment at a time. Lean on faith. Breathe. And remember—every completed class brings you closer to your own walk across the stage. Ready to Reconnect? If you left college before completing your degree, Houston Reconnect may be able to help you finish at HCC.  Learn more about eligibility and programs: hccs.edu/Reconnect  Explore flexible online options: hccs.edu/online

Because in Houston—and at Houston Style Magazine—we believe it’s never too late to keep going.

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

2026 MLK Unity Parade: One City. One Dream. One Powerful March Forward.

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    January 6, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — That legacy comes full circle in 2026, as the Black Heritage Society, Inc.—the original steward of Houston’s MLK celebrations—leads a citywide moment of reflection, celebration, and unity. Longtime supporters may even recognize the familiar voice of the organization’s late founder recounting the original MLK Jr. Parade and Houston’s early commitment to honoring Dr. King—a reminder that history, when protected, has a way of guiding the future.

A Parade Powered by Purpose—and People

This year’s MLK Unity Parade is built on a simple but powerful idea: every community matters, and every voice belongs. Each participating organization will proudly showcase its own Grand Marshal and creative entries, alongside the City of Houston, creating a tapestry of civic pride, culture, and shared values.

Leading the march as Grand Marshal is Houston radio icon Madd Hatta, whose decades-long career has informed, entertained, and uplifted the city. Joining him are John Whitmire, a steadfast advocate for unity and civic progress, and community leader Charles Stamps. Co–Grand Marshals Debora Nixon, RN, and legendary vocalist Freddie Jackson add depth and distinction to an already remarkable lineup.

Adding historical resonance are two special guests whose presence underscores the intellectual and moral lineage of the movement: Rev. Dr. Derek King, nephew of Dr. King himself, and Jeffrey Peck, great-grandson of W. E. B. Du Bois. Their participation reminds us that Houston’s celebration is not symbolic—it is substantive.

An MLK Weekend That Speaks to Every Generation

The MLK Unity Parade anchors a full MLK Weekend of Celebration, thoughtfully curated to engage minds, uplift spirits, and bring families together.

MLK Podcast & Comedy Jam • Friday, January 16, 2026 | 6:30–9:30 PM A vibrant evening blending elegance, humor, and insight, hosted by Emecc Funky Larry Jones and Co-Emcc Amanda Sapp. Expect laughter with purpose—and conversations that matter. MLK Choir City-Wide Fellowship Celebration • Sunday, January 18, 2026 | 5:00 PM Held at Community of Faith Church under the leadership of Bishop James Dixon II, this gathering reflects the heart of Dr. King’s vision—unity, spiritual strength, and collective joy—through powerful gospel music and fellowship. MLK Unity Parade Day • Monday, January 19, 2026 The day begins with a VIP Breakfast at St. John Methodist Church (2019 Crawford Street) from 7:30–8:30 AM, followed by the MLK Unity Street Procession at 9:15 AM, and the Parade Kickoff at 10:00 AM at Smith and McKinney Streets. From 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Downtown Houston becomes a moving testament to hope. MLK Festival at Tranquility Park • Monday, January 19, 2026 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM A family-friendly celebration featuring vendors, educational exhibits, prizes, and community resources—open to the public and designed to pass Dr. King’s legacy forward.

Why Support Matters—Right Now

Behind the scenes, timing is everything. The Black Heritage Society, Inc. is working to secure vital resources, including transportation and meals for the beloved Prairie View A&M University Band—a crowd favorite whose presence elevates the parade experience for thousands.

Sponsorship isn’t just about visibility; it’s about values. Supporting the MLK Unity Parade affirms a commitment to justice, compassion, and shared humanity. Small business sponsor packages remain available, with flexible options to meet partners where they are. For those already committed—thank you. For those considering—this is your moment to stand on the right side of history.

Houston’s Promise, On Parade

Dr. King taught us that unity is not passive—it is intentional. As Houston gathers on January 19, 2026, the MLK Unity Parade will do more than commemorate a legacy. It will activate it.

One city. One dream. One unforgettable march toward hope.

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

Harris Health Shows Houston How Public Engagement Is Done

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    January 6, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — On Monday evening, January 5, 2026, Harris Health did something both rare and refreshing in modern civic life—it leaned into public dialogue. Not with talking points. Not with polished platitudes. But with openness, clarity, and a genuine invitation for Houstonians to help shape the future of public healthcare. At a well-attended town hall hosted in Harris County Precinct 2, residents gathered at the BakerRipley Ripley House Campus to learn more about the proposed expansion of Ben Taub Hospital, one of the most critical healthcare institutions in Texas and a national leader in trauma care. The meeting focused on Harris Health’s proposal to acquire 8.9 acres of land adjacent to Hermann Park through eminent domain—a topic that naturally carries emotional, historical, and civic weight. Rather than sidestepping concerns, Harris Health confronted them head-on. A Conversation, Not a Monologue Led by Harris Health President and CEO Esmaeil Porsa, MD, the town hall centered on transparency. Dr. Porsa walked attendees through the rationale behind the proposed expansion, emphasizing patient safety, growing capacity needs, modernization, and long-term resilience for Houston’s public healthcare system. Importantly, the evening was not framed as a fait accompli. Questions were welcomed. Concerns were acknowledged. Perspectives—both supportive and skeptical—were heard. That tone set the meeting apart and underscored Harris Health’s commitment to community accountability. Hosting the event alongside Adrian Garcia, Harris Health reinforced that public healthcare decisions do not exist in a vacuum. They are civic decisions—rooted in neighborhoods, families, and shared public spaces. Why Ben Taub’s Future Matters For generations of Houstonians, Ben Taub Hospital has been far more than a hospital. As a Level I Trauma Center, it is often the last line of defense on the worst day of someone’s life. It is where accident victims, emergency patients, and those without insurance receive world-class care—without question and without delay. The proposed expansion aims to ensure that Ben Taub can continue fulfilling that mission as Houston grows larger, older, and more complex. From emergency response to specialty services, Harris Health made clear that standing still is not an option when lives are on the line. Respecting Houston’s History While Planning Its Future Hermann Park holds a special place in Houston’s cultural fabric, and Harris Health acknowledged that reality throughout the discussion. The town hall reflected a deliberate effort to balance preservation with progress—recognizing that strong cities protect both their people and their public spaces. For residents unable to attend in person, Harris Health also reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive participation by keeping public comment open via email at bentaubexpansion@harrishealth.org and continuing to share updates through harrishealth.org. Sixty Years of Service—and Still Listening The timing of the town hall was especially meaningful as Harris Health celebrates 60 years of service, having been established on January 1, 1966. Over six decades, the system has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public healthcare providers, anchored by Ben Taub Hospital and Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, and supported by nearly 40 clinics, specialty centers, and virtual care platforms. Its record speaks volumes: • Magnet® Nursing Excellence designations • Magnet® with Distinction for Ben Taub Hospital • An ‘A’ Leapfrog Grade for LBJ Hospital • National recognition for patient-centered care Those achievements are strengthened through academic partnerships with Baylor College of Medicine, UTHealth McGovern Medical School, and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center—ensuring Harris Health remains both compassionate and cutting-edge. A Model for Civic Engagement What stood out most on Monday night was not just the content of the conversation, but the willingness to have it at all. In an era when communities often feel talked at instead of talked with, Harris Health chose dialogue. For Houston, that matters. As discussions continue and plans evolve, one thing is clear: Harris Health understands that public trust is built not only through clinical excellence, but through listening—especially when the decisions are complex.

Houston Style Magazine will continue to follow this important story, because when it comes to healthcare, community, and the future of our city, showing up is how progress happens. More information: HarrisHealth.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

DACAMERA at the Eldorado: Rising Jazz Stars — Brandon Woody’s Upendo

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Francis Page Jr

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    January 6, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston’s jazz story has always been about place, people, and purpose—and on Sunday evening, January 11, all three converge inside one of the city’s most storied rooms. DACAMERA brings its acclaimed Rising Jazz Stars series back to the legendary Eldorado Ballroom, welcoming trumpeter Brandon Woody and his soulful, high-octane ensemble Upendo for a can’t-miss early evening set that promises both intimacy and lift.

Event Details

Sunday, January 11, 2026 5:00 PM Set Choose-What-You-Pay Tickets: $10 | $25 | $50 Eldorado Ballroom | 2310 Elgin St., Houston, TX 77004 713-524-5050 | boxoffice@dacamera.com

This is the kind of night Houston does best: world-class artistry in a room that carries history in its walls, offered with accessibility and open arms. The Eldorado—once a cornerstone of Black cultural life and live music in Third Ward—feels like the perfect match for Woody’s sound: homegrown, heartfelt, and unapologetically human.

A Voice Rooted in Home, Reaching Everywhere

Raised in Baltimore’s vibrant creative ecosystem, Brandon Woody has built a career that refuses shortcuts. Rather than chasing polish for polish’s sake, he’s honed a voice that embraces texture—celebrations, struggles, and all the jagged beauty in between. That approach caught the attention of both The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times, who’ve hailed him as one of contemporary jazz’s most compelling young voices.

In May 2025, Woody released his Blue Note Records debut, For the Love of It All—a title that doubles as a mission statement. Recorded with his longtime band Upendo (Swahili for “love”), the album feels lived-in and communal, the kind of music shaped not just in studios, but in front of audiences. Songs were refined on bandstands, tested and transformed by hometown listeners who remembered melodies before they had names. That dialogue—between artist and community—remains at the core of Woody’s work.

Upendo: Music with a Pulse

Onstage, Upendo doesn’t just play to the room—they play with it. Expect compositions that move from lyrical warmth to propulsive swing, punctuated by Woody’s trumpet tone: searching, radiant, and fearless. As DownBeat put it, “There’s a lot to love in Brandon Woody’s trumpet playing…a spectacular debut on all fronts.” Houston audiences will hear why.

Woody’s journey—from Berklee summer intensives to the Brubeck Institute, from New York’s promise to Baltimore’s pull—has shaped an artist deeply aware of lineage and responsibility. Studying with mentors like Ambrose Akinmusire and Cecil Bridgewater sharpened his craft, but returning home sharpened his purpose. The result is jazz that feels rooted yet forward-looking, honoring tradition while speaking plainly to now.

Why This Night Matters for Houston

DACAMERA’s Rising Jazz Stars series has long been a bridge between Houston listeners and the next generation of global jazz leaders. Pairing that mission with the Eldorado Ballroom isn’t nostalgia—it’s continuity. It’s a reminder that jazz lives where community gathers, where stories are shared, and where young voices are invited to lead.

This performance is generously sponsored by Kipp Baxter, Niké Beltran Luqman, and Adel and Maureen Chaouch, in honor of the Baxter, Beltran, and Chaouch/Donovan families—another testament to Houston’s culture of stewardship and support for the arts.

Bottom line: If you love jazz that tells the truth, venues that mean something, and evenings that leave you lighter than when you arrived, Brandon Woody’s Upendo at the Eldorado is your Sunday plan. Come early. Bring a friend. Leave inspired. DaCamera.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

New gravity-defying Lions cake sculpture draws crowds to bakery window

CNN Newsource on January 6, 2026

By Carli Petrus

Click here for updates on this story

    ROCHESTER, Michigan (WXYZ) — A life-sized, gravity-defying cake sculpture celebrating Detroit Lions players Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs is drawing crowds to The Home Bakery’s storefront window in downtown Rochester.

Owner Heather Tocco and her team of about 24 spent more than 400 hours creating the fully edible masterpiece, which features St. Brown suspended from the ceiling in a Superman pose while Gibbs crouches below in a Spider-Man position—recreating one of the season’s most memorable touchdown celebrations.

“Gibbs has cake in his thigh, some cake in his abdomen, Rice Krispies on his back,” Tocco said, describing the intricate construction process.

The massive sculpture required four men to secure the St. Brown figure to the ceiling, pushing Tocco’s design limits to ensure structural integrity.

“This one was really pushing my limits as far as making sure I was designing it correctly,” Tocco said.

This marks the second year Tocco has created a Lions-themed display, following last year’s tribute to St. Brown’s iconic headstand celebration. But this year, she wanted to go bigger.

“I think we all know the celly that this comes from, right? That beautiful Gibbs in the Spider-Man, St. Brown in the Superman that I think was on one of the most memorable cellys from this season,” Tocco said.

Despite the Lions’ missing the playoffs this season, Tocco believes there’s still reason to celebrate the team’s memorable moments.

“There’s still some epic moments and we still need to celebrate them and big things are coming this next season, I can feel it,” Tocco said.

The display has become a community attraction, drawing visitors from across the region.

“We came into town to see the window,” Nancy Greve said.

“It’s cool to see the recognition that this bakery has been getting,” JP Valade added.

“She’s super talented and it looks amazing,” Allie Casper said.

People take pictures in front of The Home Bakery window display. Tocco’s favorite aspect of creating these elaborate displays is how they bring the community together and generate excitement.

“I love the idea of it and I feel like what it’s doing for the community, it’s certainly worth our time and celebrating it, it’s just so fun and you felt the energy when you were in here and all the people are looking and taking photos and stuff like that, I love the feeling,” Tocco said.

The bakery plans to keep the cake on display until the end of February, and Tocco is already considering making Lions-themed displays an annual tradition as fans look ahead to next season.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Scripps editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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.