Category: CNN Regional

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    December 04, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston Style Magazine readers, get ready—because the rails are rumbling with holiday cheer.

This Saturday, December 6, Union Pacific Railroad will bring a season of generosity to a celebratory crescendo as Railroad Santa trades his sleigh for steel wheels and leads a festive train ride through Houston. The grand finale marks the end of a tremendously successful year for the UPVETS Houston/Gulf Coast Chapter, Union Pacific’s national employee resource group representing military veterans and reservists.

And if you spot a shining red-white-and-blue locomotive rolling through downtown? That’s no ordinary engine. That’s Locomotive No. 1943 – The Spirit, Union Pacific’s powerful, patriotic tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces.

35,000 Toys. One Mission. A Houston Tradition.

This year, UPVETS volunteers collected an extraordinary 35,000 toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program, turning Houston’s offices, restaurants, stores, and neighborhoods into hubs of holiday giving.

For seven years, this local chapter has mobilized volunteers, recruited sponsors, and placed donation boxes across the region—each year outdoing the last. Their commitment reflects the heart of Union Pacific, where nearly 18% of employees are U.S. military veterans or reservists, many still actively serving.

Their message is simple: Community service never stops—and neither does the railroad.

Ride Along with Railroad Santa & the Marines

The celebration ride will feature coach and observation cars from Union Pacific’s iconic Heritage Fleet, as Marines in full dress uniform join Railroad Santa for a rolling salute to community service, volunteerism, and holiday joy.

Media—and a lucky few—may even hop aboard for the ride. Seats are extremely limited and first come, first served, adding a touch of exclusivity to one of Houston’s most heartwarming traditions.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025 Departure: 9:00 AM CST Arrival: 10:00 AM CST (estimated) Location: Amtrak Depot – Downtown Houston

Guests, spectators, and photographers are encouraged to arrive early to capture the moment the 1943 “Spirit” locomotive powers up and rolls out with Santa waving from the rails.

A Salute to Service — and to Houston

Union Pacific’s support of veteran employees isn’t symbolic—it’s structural. With military veterans making up nearly one-fifth of its workforce, UP ensures leadership opportunities, skills development, and strong community partnerships. UPVETS exemplifies that commitment by pairing service to the nation with service to neighbors.

Through the Toys for Tots drive, these veteran employees continue their proud tradition of showing up where their community needs them most.

Holiday Magic, Houston-Style

This celebration isn’t just a toy drive finale—it’s a uniquely Houston moment. Heritage railcars, Marines, Santa in overalls, and a patriotic locomotive sweeping across the city? That’s the kind of story only Houston writes.

As the toy-filled train rolls into downtown, it carries more than gifts. It carries gratitude, unity, and the steady reminder that when Houston gives, Houston gives big.

Please note: 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 Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    December 04, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston City College (HCC) has long been the launchpad for Houston’s most determined dreamers—entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders who step into its classrooms ready to reshape their futures. That legacy continued in brilliant fashion when the world-traveled, Emmy and James Beard Award-winning Chef Andrew Zimmern, made a stop in the Houston area to serve something far richer than a signature dish: hard-earned wisdom for the next generation of culinary leaders.

Zimmern—beloved host of Bizarre Foods, The Zimmern List, and What’s Eating America—made the stop was in Houston to promote his latest project, The Blue Food Cookbook: Delicious Recipes for a Sustainable Future, co-written with chef and sustainability advocate Barton Seaver. At one point during the visit, the bestselling author and philanthropist shifted gears from global flavors to global advice.

The HCC Difference: Where Culinary Careers Are Built One Skill, One Class, One Opportunity at a Time

For decades, HCC has been a cornerstone of accessible, world-class workforce development in Houston. Its Culinary Arts Program—one of the region’s most respected—has trained talented culinarians who now thrive in restaurants, hotels, food trucks, catering companies, and hospitality ventures across Texas and beyond. The college’s hands-on learning model, industry-connected faculty, and affordability have made culinary education achievable for thousands of Houstonians.

HCC is a place where ambition meets guidance, where raw passion meets discipline, and where students receive not just training, but mentorship.

Zimmern’s Recipe for Success: “Your Career Is Built Step by Step—Not Overnight”

In today’s social-media-driven world, Zimmern emphasizes that culinary success doesn’t happen with a single viral video or the sudden unveiling of a cookbook.

“Mastery takes time, discipline, and humility,” he said. “The question isn’t ‘When will I have a restaurant?’ The question is: ‘What do I need to do to reach that goal?’”

He says that every great chef begins with the same ingredients: patience, perseverance, and the willingness to learn. Some aspiring chefs will take the “riskiest route,” launching a business early and learning through trial and error. Others will choose to learn the industry from the inside—studying operations, leadership, systems, and management under seasoned professionals before branching out.

Zimmern urges every student who aspires to be successful in the culinary world to visualize their dream now—whether it’s owning a food truck in Third Ward, running a boutique catering company in Pearland, or debuting a signature restaurant in Downtown Houston—and then chart the steps to get there.

“Anything is doable, and any dream a student has is 100% possible,” he encouraged. “But you have to do the work. Learn your voice. Learn how to communicate.”

Success Has No Age Limit—And HCC Proves It Every Day

One of the most powerful moments came when Zimmern spoke to all starting a culinary career later in life.

“You are not too old. You can do anything at any age,” he said. “There are so many success stories of culinary professionals in their 50s and 60s—finally figuring out what they want to do.”

His message echoed HCC’s enduring belief: education isn’t bound by age, chapter, or background. From young creatives exploring food for the first time to mid-career professionals switching paths, HCC embraces every learner.

At Houston City College, passion never expires—and neither do opportunities.

A Sustainable Future: The Mission Behind The Blue Food Cookbook

Zimmern’s new cookbook—centered on sustainable blue foods like algae, seaweed, and aquatic plants—invites readers to rethink how food systems impact the planet’s future. His commitment to sustainability aligned seamlessly with HCC’s own mission: preparing students for a culinary world that values innovation, responsibility, and environmental awareness.

Ready to Start Your Culinary Journey? Houston City College Is Your First, Best Step

Zimmern’s wise words symbolize something powerful: HCC isn’t just training chefs—it’s shaping Houston’s culinary future. Step into an HCC kitchen, and you step onto a pathway filled with possibility, mentorship, creativity, and world-class instruction at a fraction of the cost of traditional culinary schools.

If you’re ready to build a dream that’s yours alone—whether you’re 18 or 58—HCC’s Culinary Arts Program is waiting for you.

Explore programs, career pathways, and enrollment options here.

Please note: 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 Kaila Contreras-Aradillas

Click here for updates on this story

    December 04, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — For ten years, the METRO Street Team has been one of the most trusted, consistent faces riders encounter across the Houston region. Long before the first morning buses rolled out or service updates hit inboxes, the Street Team was already in the field—meeting riders where they are, offering guidance, comfort, and clarity through some of METRO’s biggest moments.

What began as a small group of energetic summer interns has grown into a decade-strong program woven into the fabric of METRO’s customer service mission. And today, as the Street Team marks its 10-year anniversary, their story stands as a testament to dedication, resilience, and community connection.

A Team Built for Change

In 2015, METRO implemented one of the most significant service changes in its history: the New Bus Network. To help riders navigate the new system, the agency needed a real-time, face-to-face way to communicate changes.

Tanya McWashington, Chief Administration Officer, and one of the few who helped kick-start the Street Team, remembers the urgency to get this new program started.

“The magnitude of this service change required a more direct, attention-grabbing approach. We needed people to really pay attention,” McWashington said. “Their presence provided not only information but reassurance during a time of significant transition.”

From the start, the Street Team set the tone for what customer-first support looks like. In the heat of summer, team members arrived at 3 a.m. and 4 a.m., to hand out service-change materials directly to riders and stayed into the evening to support late-shift workers.

A Different Kind of Customer Engagement

Unlike traditional Public Engagement staff, who focus on relationship-building, the Street Team provides immediate, real-time support across the system—on buses, at shelters, at transit centers, and anywhere riders need them.

Kayona Bastian, Public Engagement Project Manager and Street Team Manager, said the Street Team’s presence is especially needed to provide that human connection.

“They offer that personal touch with our riders. They make riders feel seen and valued… ensuring METRO hears the community’s voice directly,” Bastian said. “Their presence shows that METRO isn’t just about buses and trains—it’s about people, relationships, and shared journeys.”

Becoming Part of METRO’s Culture

Though part-time, Street Team members are fully embedded into METRO’s outreach efforts. Training, team building, and agency communication ensure they remain aligned and informed.

Former Street Team member—and now Public Engagement Manager—Wilfredo Santamaria still considers his Street Team experience foundational.

“At the time, I was looking for a job—even if it was temporary—so I didn’t think I’d be at METRO longer than a few months. And here I am 10 years later,” Santamaria said.

Frontline Through Houston’s Big Moments

Over the past decade, the Street Team has represented METRO in some of Houston’s largest events:

Super Bowl LI NCAA Men’s Final Four (2016 & 2023) Multiple World Series events and parades Major cultural celebrations and downtown festivals During emergencies, their role becomes especially critical. During the pandemic, members distributed service updates from inside personal vehicles at Park & Ride lots to ensure healthcare workers received accurate, up-to-date information.

“Whether it’s service changes or weather emergencies, Street Team members provide immediate support that strengthens the community’s confidence in METRO,” Bastian said.

The People Behind the Program

The Street Team’s strength lies in its people—students, retirees, bilingual communicators, full-time professionals, and former operators. Their diversity enables them to connect authentically with Houston’s riders.

Current member Keonte Sowunmi, a finance student at Houston City College, has been with the Street Team for a year. He says the experience changed his understanding of METRO and of his community needs.

The Street Team became more than just a part-time job for Sowunmi, it became a mentorship.

“I would likely be lost without the guidance provided by the team,” Sowunmi admitted. “Every conversation I’ve had has been filled with wisdom. I feel comfortable asking for advice and receiving support in return.”

And that support has shaped his future goals.

“I believe I’ve been given an opportunity,” Sowunmi said. “And it’s up to me to make the most of it. I’m grateful for this chance.”

A Decade of Service, A Future of Possibility

Ten years in, the METRO Street Team is more than a group of part-time employees—it’s a symbol of METRO’s commitment to meeting riders where they are, listening to their needs, and helping them navigate a growing and evolving transit system.

The Street Team has helped Houston move forward for a decade. And their story is only just beginning.

“I hope the Street Team continues to be a source of insight for our riders and the community,” Santamaria said. “I hope to see it become a model for other entities looking for effective strategies to engage with the community.” More info, go to: RideMetro.org

Please note: 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 Jacquelyn Quinones

Click here for updates on this story

    SALINAS, California (KSBW) — Seven people were hospitalized in Monterey County after consuming wild white cap mushrooms, which health officials warn can lead to severe poisoning, liver failure, and even death.

Dr. Kimberly Moulton, an emergency medicine physician at Salinas Valley Health, said, “In this case with these mushrooms, I would say one bite can kill.”

He explained that the hospital treated seven patients over the weekend who had ingested the mushrooms, noting the limited treatment options available.

“There’s no antidote to these poisonings; we have protocols that we can use to try to treat it, we can use medications, procedures, the sickest patients may end up needing a liver transplant,” Moulton said.

Hospital staff emphasized that washing, cooking, and preparing the mushrooms do not neutralize the toxins.

“Typically, these mushrooms are the amanita type of mushroom, and they contain a toxin called amatoxin, which is really the dangerous, lethal toxin that causes the poisoning,” Moulton said.

These poisonous mushrooms grow in certain parts of California year-round but are most commonly found during fall, late winter, and spring.

Moulton explained that symptoms of mushroom poisoning can be delayed, saying, “Some people may consume a small amount and not have any symptoms, but some people do develop symptoms, typically when these more serious mushroom poisoning the symptoms actually present in pretty much delayed fashion, so the mushrooms may be consumed and we don’t see any symptoms for 6 to 12, sometimes even longer hours.”

The County of Monterey Health Department advises the public to consume only commercially produced mushrooms.

“Public health recommends that individuals only eat mushrooms that are produced by commercial providers, which include mushrooms you can only buy in grocery stores,” Edward Moreno, County of Monterey Public Health Director, said.

Some of the patients from the weekend are recovering, while a few remain hospitalized and may require liver transplants.

This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting.

Please note: 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 Rob McCartney

Click here for updates on this story

    OMAHA, Nebraska (KETV) — A masked man broke into a game machine at a laundromat near 60th and Ames, stealing over $11,000 in cash.

The incident happened on the night of Nov. 10.

The suspect was seen on video sitting at the machine, looking at his phone and surveying the area before acting.

When the laundromat was mostly empty, the man pulled an electric saw from his pants and cut open the front of the machine, allowing him to access the cash box.

He then removed the cash box, picked up his saw and a piece of clothing, and quickly left the scene.

The suspect is described as fairly tall, wearing a blue jacket, red shorts over blue pants or jeans, and a black mask.

The gaming company said he caused about $5,000 in damage to the machine and stole more than $11,000 from the cash box.

Investigators said the suspect may not have an address and could be staying at the Sienna Francis House.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Omaha Crime Stoppers at 402-444-STOP or online here.

This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting.

Please note: 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 Nick Sloan

Click here for updates on this story

    KANSAS CITY, Missouri (KMBC) — Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas is pushing for a citywide crackdown on the unregulated “gas station drugs” sold at convenience stores and vape shops.

Lucas this week introduced an ordinance which would prohibit the sale of products such as kratom, Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC edibles, synthetic cannabinoids, and nitrous oxide canisters that are currently legal to sell but not overseen by federal health regulators.

“Unregulated gas station drugs are substances that are sold with virtually no oversight or accountability,” Lucas said. “The products are marketed as legal alternatives but often just as dangerous as controlled substances and have no place on our shelves when they contribute to addiction, overdoses, and neighborhood instability, particularly impacting our children.”

City officials say the Kansas City Health Department recently investigated a deadly overdose in which kratom was found in the victim’s system.

Kratom, along with hemp-derived THC products like Delta-8 and Delta-9, has not been approved for any medical use by the Food and Drug Administration.

Public Safety Director Lace Cline said the products are often linked not only to health harms but also disorder around the businesses that sell them.

Violations could lead to fines of $750 to $1,000 per day and could cost business owners their licenses.

This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting.

Please note: 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.