Houston Public Library Expands Hours to Enhance Community Access and Services
In a significant move to better serve the community, the Houston Public Library (HPL) is thrilled to announce the extension of its operating hours. Starting June 1, 2024, key locations including Alief Regional Library, Central Library, and all three History Research Centers will offer expanded hours, providing greater access to a wealth of resources, services, and programs.
Celebrating Excellence: HISD's Young Women's College Preparatory Academy Seniors Honored at 3rd Annual Trailblazer Awards Luncheon
The Young Women's College Preparatory Academy (YWCPA) seniors of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) recently received a grand tribute at the 3rd Annual Trailblazer Awards Luncheon. This prestigious event celebrates the remarkable achievements and steadfast dedication of the academy’s graduating class, reaffirming YWCPA's legacy of academic excellence and leadership.
U.S. Department of Energy Launches Inaugural Faculty-Applied Clean Energy Sciences Program for Minority-Serving Institutions
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has proudly announced the launch of the inaugural Faculty-Applied Clean Energy Sciences (FACES) Program, selecting its first-ever cohort from Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) nationwide. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to bridge the gap between DOE laboratories and academia, enhance STEM education, and promote clean energy responsibility across social and environmental sciences.
Empowering Low-Income Communities: 2024 Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program Now Accepting Applications
In a landmark announcement, the Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Department of Energy (DOE) have officially opened the application portal for the 2024 Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program. This initiative, established under the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to bolster clean energy investments in low-income communities by providing significant tax incentives for solar and wind projects.
Paving the Path to Energy Justice: REDI Applications Open and Global Engagements Flourish
In my journey with the Department of Energy, the evolution of energy justice has been a profoundly gratifying experience. Over nearly four years, I have witnessed its roots extend from the icy landscapes of Alaska to the sun-soaked shores of Hawaii. Our initiatives have amplified the voices of communities that have long been marginalized, empowering them to shape their own clean energy futures.
GM Promotes Baris Cetinok and Dave Richardson to Lead Software and Services Organization
General Motors (GM) is making strategic advancements in the realm of electric, autonomous, and connected vehicles with the promotion of Baris Cetinok and Dave Richardson to lead its Software and Services organization. These seasoned executives are set to drive GM’s software and digital transformation, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.
Celebrating Black Music Month: Gwendolyn Quinn and Bill Carpenter’s Super Playlist
As Black Music Month marks its 45th anniversary this June, public relations veterans and content creators Gwendolyn Quinn and Bill Carpenter have created a special tribute to Black music and its creators. Their “Gwendolyn & Bill’s 45th Black Music Month Super Playlist” features over 20 hours of music, including more than 300 classic and hit songs spanning 21 diverse sub-genres. This playlist not only celebrates the popular genres of hip-hop and R&B but also explores the broader spectrum of Black musical artistry.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Faces Pancreatic Cancer with Unwavering Faith and Commitment
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), a distinguished leader and tireless advocate for justice and equality, has recently disclosed her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. In a powerful statement, she shared her determination to confront this personal challenge with the same steadfast faith and courage that have defined her decades-long public service career.
Rev. Al Sharpton Leads Community Prayer for Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg in Wake of Trump Guilty Verdict
In a significant move that underscores the importance of community solidarity and justice, Rev. Al Sharpton, President and Founder of the National Action Network (NAN), is set to lead a day of powerful advocacy and prayer. This Saturday, June 1st, at 10 a.m., the NAN House of Justice in Harlem will host a community prayer session in support of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and his family, following the recent guilty verdict of Donald Trump.
Michelle Obama’s mother, Marian Robinson, dies
Marian Robinson, the mother of former first lady Michelle Obama, has died, according to a statement from the Obama and Robinson families. She was 86.
Standing Together: Houston's Resilience in the Face of Texas Storms and Floods
Amidst the relentless onslaught of nature's fury, Houston emerges as a beacon of resilience, embodying the spirit of solidarity and support in the wake of back-to-back severe weather outbreaks. From devastating tornadoes to relentless floods, our communities have faced unprecedented challenges, yet amidst adversity, hope perseveres.
Fort Bend County and Sugar Land Secure Over $42 Million for Vital Flood Mitigation Projects
In a monumental step towards fortifying the resilience of Fort Bend County against the ravages of flooding, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham joined forces with Fort Bend County Judge KP George and Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman to announce over $42 million in funding for crucial flood mitigation initiatives. Held against the backdrop of looming storm threats, this partnership underscores a united front in safeguarding communities and ensuring the well-being of residents.
NBA Star Anthony Davis and Raven Magwood Goodson Team Up to Give Us the Full Court Advantage on Finding Our Way Back with Finding Tony
The phrase “Life Imitates Art” can be traced back to 1889, when Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde wrote, “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life” in his essay “The Decay of Lying.” Now, some 130 years later, it feels as though there has been a shift. Art is most definitely imitating life in the independent film, Finding Tony. Released on May 10th, Finding Tony was the perfect film for us to review as we close out #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth. The film puts us in the passenger seat of a widowed former basketball player’s journey to finding his way back to himself through becoming a women's college basketball coach.
Shell Freedom Over Texas: Houston's Spectacular Fourth of July Celebration Unveils Star-Studded Lineup and Family-Friendly Fun
Get ready to ignite your patriotism and celebrate America's birthday in grand style at Shell Freedom Over Texas, Houston's official Fourth of July extravaganza. Mayor John Whitmire and Shell USA proudly present an unforgettable day of festivities, live entertainment, and a breathtaking fireworks display set against the backdrop of Buffalo Bayou. Join us as we honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom and revel in the spirit of unity and community.
City of Houston Corruption Unveiled: Former Employees and Contractors Face Felony Charges
In a watershed moment for justice and accountability, the recent press conference spearheaded by Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg and Houston Mayor John Whitmire has exposed a distressing reality: former city employees and contractors implicated in a corrupt web of deceit tied to city contracts. The event, held on Friday, May 31, reverberated with the gravity of the charges levied against individuals allegedly involved in an emergency water repair scam, signaling a firm stance against malfeasance within Houston's municipal sphere.
Texas Fraud Scheme Unveiled: $110M IRS Scam Culminates in Final Guilty Pleas
In a landmark development, the conclusion of a complex federal case exposes the intricate web of deceit spun by seven individuals across Texas. From the vibrant streets of Round Rock to the cultural hub of San Antonio, the scheme orchestrated by Abraham Yusuff and his cohorts showcases the lengths to which criminals will go to defraud the IRS. With the final defendants, including Yusuff himself, entering guilty pleas, the narrative of this audacious fraud scheme nears its climax.
Aldine ISD, No Kid Hungry Texas, and Representative Armando Walle to Host Summer Feeding Kickoff Event
This summer, Aldine ISD, No Kid Hungry Texas, and Texas Representative Armando Walle (District 140) are joining forces to combat child hunger with an exciting and supportive community event. The Summer Feeding Kickoff Event, set for Monday, June 3, 2024, at Escamilla Elementary, promises to be a fun-filled day designed to raise awareness about crucial summer meal programs that ensure kids stay nourished when school is out.
Public Utility Commission of Texas Launches Texas Energy Fund In-ERCOT Generation Loan Program
Exciting news for Texas energy sector! Starting tomorrow, June 1, 2024, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) will open applications for the Texas Energy Fund (TEF) In-ERCOT Generation Loan Program. This significant initiative aims to bolster the state’s power grid by financing new construction and upgrades to existing dispatchable electric generating facilities within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) power region.
NAREB: Down Payment Assistance Programs Boost Home Ownership for Black Consum
For Black consumers and first-time homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a significant hurdle. Families and individuals can often manage a monthly mortgage but lack the upfront resources for a down payment. However, crucial programs are available that can assist homebuyers with their down payments, making homeownership more accessible.
Mayor Whitmire Appoints Thomas Muñoz as Acting Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security
In a decisive move to strengthen Houston's public safety framework, Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Thomas Muñoz as the acting Director of the Mayor's Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security. Muñoz, who has served as the Deputy Director for this office, will continue his pivotal role as Emergency Management Coordinator for the Office of Emergency Management.
