Lights, Camera, Economic Action: Houston's Film Industry Shines Bright in 2024
The Houston film scene is rolling out the red carpet as the economic impact of local film projects skyrockets in 2024! Despite a slight dip in the total number of productions, the financial boost to the Houston economy is nothing short of spectacular. In just the first half of the year, film productions assisted by the Houston Film Commission generated an astonishing **$65.6 million**, a staggering **259.6% increase** from the mere **$18.2 million** recorded during the same period in 2023.
Transforming Houston: The Bold Vision for George R. Brown Convention Center
Houston is about to embark on a transformative journey that will reshape the city's skyline and boost its economic prowess. Houston First Corporation has made a game-changing move by selecting Hines, a global real estate powerhouse headquartered right here in Houston, to lead the ambitious transformation of the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) and its surrounding district. This landmark project is set to turn the 37-year-old convention center into a vibrant, world-class destination that will attract larger conferences and meetings, providing a significant economic boost to downtown Houston.
Woman who hurled racist slur at a Black University of Kentucky student pleads guilty following mediation
A former University of Kentucky student facing assault charges after repeatedly hurling a racial slur at a Black student on campus in 2022 pleaded guilty on Monday, following mediation in court, her attorney told CNN.
European airline announces annual ‘all you can fly’ pass
For some it’s the dream: a flight pass around Europe and the Mediterranean.
Americans are still shopping. They’re just going to Walmart
Americans are cutting back on Disney parks, Big Macs and Starbucks coffee. But they keep shopping at Walmart.
‘I’m down to eating ramen’: Social Security benefits aren’t keeping up with inflation
Until last year, Janet Albrecht could afford to eat roast beef sandwiches or tuna salad for lunch. But the widowed 78-year-old now has to skimp on her meals because her Social Security benefits haven’t kept up with the rising costs for food, housing and health care in recent years.
Disney wants wrongful death suit thrown out because widower bought an Epcot ticket and had Disney+
A man suing Walt Disney Parks and Resorts for the wrongful death of his wife is facing a new legal hurdle: Disney is trying to get it thrown out of court and sent to arbitration — because he signed up for Disney+ years earlier.
New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge reaches 300 career home runs faster than anyone in MLB history
New York Yankees star outfielder Aaron Judge is no stranger to making Major League Baseball history, and on Wednesday he did it again.
Vikings rookie QB JJ McCarthy to miss season after surgery for meniscus tear
JJ McCarthy’s career as the Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback will be delayed until next season after it was revealed Wednesday the rookie’s surgery for a meniscus tear in his right knee was a “full repair.”
Taylor Swift set to return to the stage in London following thwarted terror attack plot in Vienna
Taylor Swift will return to the stage at London’s Wembley Stadium on Thursday, just over a week after three of her Eras Tour concerts in Vienna were canceled when police in the Austrian city thwarted a terror attack plot targeting one of her shows.
‘End the havoc’: Another major city has banned e-scooter rentals from its streets
When it comes to wheels, it’s hard to deny that rented e-scooters are among the most divisive modes of transportation in the world right now.
Gena Rowlands, star of ‘The Notebook’ and ‘A Woman Under the Influence,’ dead at 94
Oscar-nominated actress Gena Rowlands, whose screen career spanned nearly seven decades and more than 100 film and TV credits, has died at 94.
Italy imposes beach rules and selfie stop lights as tourist numbers hit peak levels
Dream Roman Holidays may be more like a nightmare for anyone visiting Italy over the next few days. Such huge numbers are expected to descend on the country’s popular destinations around a major holiday that special measures are being put in place to keep tourists in check.
Multiple arrests made in connection to Matthew Perry’s death
Multiple arrests have been made in connection with Matthew Perry’s death, according to a law enforcement source familiar with the situation.
Wally Amos, founder of Famous Amos cookies, dies at 88
Wally Amos, the charismatic founder of Famous Amos cookies, has died at age 88, according to a statement signed by his children.
Remembering Floyd Newsum: A Visionary Artist and Beloved Founder of Project Row Houses
The Houston arts community has lost one of its brightest stars. Floyd Newsum, a revered visual artist, professor, and one of the founding pillars of Project Row Houses, has passed away. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Houston Community Unites for Walk to Defeat ALS® at Lone Star College Montgomery
On October 5, 2024, the Houston community will come together to support those battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, during the Walk to Defeat ALS in The Woodlands. Hosted by The ALS Association, the event will take place at Lone Star College Montgomery, where families, friends, caregivers, and advocates will gather to raise awareness and funds to combat this devastating neurodegenerative disease.
Harris County Clerk's Office Hosts Fourth Annual Back-to-School Birth Certificate Event Amid Post-Hurricane Recovery
As Harris County continues to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, the Harris County Clerk’s Office (HCCO) is stepping up to support families with school-age children. On Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., HCCO will host its Fourth Annual Back-to-School Birth Certificate Event at the Chimney Rock Annex, located at 6000 Chimney Rock Road. This event is designed to help families obtain the birth certificates necessary for school registration.
Teneshia Hudspeth Elected President of International Association of Government Officials
In a momentous achievement, Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth has ascended to the role of President of the International Association of Government Officials (iGO). The announcement was made official during iGO's 2024 Annual Conference, which took place in New Orleans from July 19-24, 2024.
Walz agrees to October 1 vice presidential debate
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said Wednesday that he has agreed to participate in a vice presidential debate on CBS News on October 1.

