Unearthing the Past: Fort Bend County Libraries to Host Genealogy Class on Tracing Ancestors Through Property-Deed Records
For Houstonians passionate about uncovering their roots, Fort Bend County Libraries is offering a golden opportunity to dig deeper into family history—literally. On Wednesday, June 11, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the George Memorial Library in Richmond will host a free and enlightening session titled “Finding Ancestors in Property-Deed Records.” This hands-on genealogy class promises to unveil how land deeds—often overlooked—can reveal volumes about your ancestors’ lives, legacies, and livelihoods.
A Cultural Homecoming: The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® Returns to New Orleans with Icons, Tributes, and Soul-Stirring Performances
Get ready, Houston! The soul of Black culture is calling us back to New Orleans for the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola®, promising an unforgettable celebration of heritage, music, and empowerment. Set against the electric backdrop of the Big Easy, this year's festival isn't just a music event—it's a powerful love letter to our past, present, and future.
Viola Davis Stuns in Custom Gucci on the Red Carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival
n a moment that radiated timeless elegance and bold Black excellence, Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis graced the red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival in a look that lit up the Croisette and redefined red carpet royalty. Attending the premiere of the highly anticipated film The Mastermind at the iconic Palais des Festivals, Davis made an unforgettable style statement that was both cinematic and couture.
BMW Motorrad Unveils Futuristic Concept RR Superbike at Lake Como's Concorso d’Eleganza
At the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, where elegance meets innovation, BMW Motorrad ignited the imagination of motorcycle enthusiasts with the unveiling of its boldest vision yet—the BMW Motorrad Concept RR. A breathtaking preview of the next-generation superbike lineup, the Concept RR fuses race-track dominance with groundbreaking design and engineering, charting the future of high-performance motorcycling.
Music Under the Star Returns to the Bullock Museum with a Stellar 2025 Lineup
An Austin summer tradition invites Texans to groove under the stars every Friday in June
Texas nights are heating up again as the Bullock Texas State History Museum proudly announces the return of its beloved Music Under the Star concert series. Taking place every Friday in June 2025, this free, family-friendly outdoor concert series transforms the Capitol Mall into a vibrant soundscape of homegrown talent, diverse rhythms, and community connection.
Houston Zoo Extends Hours for Memorial Day Weekend Fun with TXU Energy Presents Jurassic Giants
Get ready, Houston! This Memorial Day weekend, the Houston Zoo is turning up the excitement and staying open late, giving families and animal lovers even more time to explore wildlife wonders and step back in time with prehistoric giants. From May 23-25, the Zoo will offer extended hours from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with last entry at 8:30 p.m.—perfect for enjoying a full day and evening of fun under the stars!
Rev. Al Sharpton, Mayor Eric Adams, and Jewish Leaders Will Unit in NYC to Condemn Deadly Shooting of Israeli Embassy Workers
In a poignant show of unity, Rev. Al Sharpton joined New York City Mayor Eric Adams and prominent Jewish community leaders today at the Center for Jewish History in Manhattan to condemn the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy workers outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., the night before.
Honoring Resilience: Dr. Melanye Price Headlines Houston Public Library’s Fourth Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture
As the nation continues to grapple with its complex history of race and justice, the Houston Public Library (HPL) remains committed to elevating voices that spark critical dialogue, healing, and hope. On Thursday, HPL's Fourth Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture will welcome the distinguished Dr. Melanye Price as its keynote speaker, continuing a tradition of truth-telling, reflection, and empowerment.
Cardi B Crowned ASCAP Voice of the Culture: A Powerful Tribute to Her Musical Impact and Cultural Influence
NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 — Global rap phenomenon, chart-dominating powerhouse, and unapologetic cultural icon Cardi B continues her reign at the top of the music industry with yet another milestone moment. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has announced that the Grammy-winning, multiplatinum artist will be honored with the prestigious ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award, an accolade reserved for boundary-pushing artists whose work transcends charts and changes the game.
Fort Bend County Shines Light on Mental Health with Empowering “Let’s Break the Stigma” Awareness Event
In a profound and purposeful effort to normalize conversations around mental wellness, Fort Bend County hosted a moving and impactful “Let’s Break the Stigma” Mental Health Awareness Event on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Held at the Historic Courthouse in Richmond, this powerful gathering brought together elected officials, healthcare professionals, advocates, and residents united by one mission: to end the stigma surrounding mental health.
Amanda Edwards Earns “Gun Sense Candidate” Recognition from Moms Demand Action in TX-18 Race
In a powerful nod to her unwavering advocacy for safer communities, Amanda Edwards, a leading candidate in the special election for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, has been officially recognized as a “Gun Sense Candidate” by the nationally respected gun violence prevention organization, Moms Demand Action.
K-Pop Powerhouse Chikk Set to Ignite Houston Stage With Nell Grant at House of Blues
An Explosive Night of Music, Sisterhood, and Global Talent Unfolds May 30 at The Bronze Peacock
Global K-Pop phenomenon Rodnae “CHIKK” Bell is making her triumphant return to the live stage—and she’s bringing her unstoppable energy to The Bronze Peacock at House of Blues Houston alongside Houston’s own rising rap star LaNell “Nell” Grant. The electrifying album release concert takes place Friday, May 30, 2025, at 7 PM, and promises to be a night fans won’t forget.
Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital Reaffirmed as Level I Trauma Center: A Lifesaving Legacy for Houston
In a reaffirmation of its unwavering commitment to emergency care excellence, Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital has once again earned re-verification as a Comprehensive Level I Trauma Center by the Texas Department of State Health Services. This prestigious recognition marks over 30 years of Ben Taub’s elite standing among the top trauma care facilities in the United States.
Houston Public Library Honors Heritage, Healing, and Hope with Cultural Celebrations this May
As Houston’s heartbeat of learning, equity, and cultural awareness, the Houston Public Library (HPL) is proudly transforming its branches into vibrant spaces of celebration this May. In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and the enduring legacy of George Floyd, HPL invites the community to experience a powerful blend of culinary arts, cultural expression, and historical reflection. Through inclusive programming, the library continues to champion its mission of education, diversity, and meaningful community dialogue.
Empowered by Education: Tarrant County College Mother-Daughter Duo Graduate Side-by-Side, Embark on a New Academic Journey
In a heartwarming celebration of perseverance, family, and the transformative power of education, a mother and daughter duo from Tarrant County College (TCC) are proving that dreams truly know no age limit. Mary and Tatyana Robinson, a dynamic pair bonded by both blood and books, recently crossed the graduation stage together—each earning an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology. As they stepped into their futures side by side, their story lit up the commencement stage with emotion, triumph, and a reminder that it’s never too late—or too early—to chase your dreams.
Jeremy Jordan to Headline Theatre Under The Stars’ Lights Up Gala: A Back to the Future-Themed Night of Broadway Brilliance
Houston’s arts scene is gearing up for an unforgettable evening of Broadway glamour, retro vibes, and community celebration as Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) presents its highly anticipated Lights Up Gala on Friday, November 7, 2025, at The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston. This year’s gala, themed “Back to the Future: A Theatrical Time Travel,” will transport guests through musical eras from the 1950s to the 1980s and beyond — all led by the electrifying presence of Broadway icon and Houston native, Jeremy Jordan.
East River Unveils Vibrant 2025 Summer Lineup: A Cultural Celebration Along Buffalo Bayou
This summer, East River Houston—Midway’s transformative 150-acre mixed-use development along Buffalo Bayou—invites Houstonians to experience a dynamic blend of music, culture, entrepreneurship, and community connection. The newly announced 2025 East River Summer Series promises a season of live entertainment, family-friendly fun, and a powerful celebration of local Black-owned businesses and artists, all set against the city’s most exciting new waterfront destination.
What we do and don’t know about Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis
— The announcement Sunday that former President Joe Biden was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer has some people wondering how the disease wasn’t spotted sooner.
Hyundai Drives Change in Coastal Georgia Through Community, Conservation, and Compassion
In a bold and heartfelt commitment to sustainability, health, and community enrichment, Hyundai Motor America continues to leave a meaningful imprint in Coastal Georgia—not just through innovation, but through impactful philanthropy. Through its Hyundai Hope initiative, the automaker has deepened its partnerships with Ducks Unlimited, Make-A-Wish Georgia, and Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Coastal Empire, reinforcing its mission of Progress for Humanity.
Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee Fights Back Against Fraudulent Property Scams in Trinity Gardens
In a powerful stand to protect Houston’s most vulnerable communities, Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee has filed a major lawsuit targeting individuals behind a disturbing real estate scam in the Trinity Gardens neighborhood. This bold legal move aims to reclaim stolen property, restore trust in property ownership, and send a clear message: property fraud will not be tolerated in Harris County.
Heatwave Hits Home: Heights High School Shuts Down Due to AC Failure Amid Soaring Temps
As summer temperatures blaze through Houston, Heights High School students and staff found themselves in a sweltering situation—literally. With outside temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and beyond, the lack of air conditioning inside the school turned classrooms into ovens, forcing Houston ISD officials to shut the campus down for the safety of everyone inside.
Houston Teen Entrepreneur Launches Inclusive Plush Toy Line with Sweet Celebration at Howdy Homemade Ice Cream
Houston's entrepreneurial spirit just got a little sweeter—and a lot more huggable. Fourteen-year-old Colton Cyr, a rising teen business mogul and the creative force behind Cute C Toys, is making waves with the debut of Dough Babies—a new line of soft, non-toxic, inclusive plush dolls. To celebrate, Cyr is hosting a vibrant, family-friendly launch party at Howdy Homemade Ice Cream in Katy on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 6 p.m. (20920 Katy Freeway, Suite S), and the entire Houston community is invited to join the fun.
Reclaiming Truth, Reimagining Freedom: Houston Artists Honor 160 Years of Juneteenth Through Dance, Poetry, and Visual Art
Houston is home to a rich tapestry of cultural expression, and this Juneteenth, three trailblazing local voices are using art to amplify the power of remembrance, resistance, and rebirth. In a compelling convergence of movement, poetry, and visual storytelling, the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF) proudly presents two major events that redefine how we honor Black legacy: The Official Juneteenth Homecoming by Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective, in partnership with Nia Cultural Center, and the world premiere of A Voice Within, a poetic opera created by writer Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton and composer Joel Thompson, presented by the Houston Grand Opera.
Fort Bend County Empowers Local Entrepreneurs with Launch of “Fort Bend Helps” Resource Hub
Fort Bend County has taken a bold step forward in championing local economic growth with the official launch of “Fort Bend Helps” — a dynamic, centralized online hub created to uplift and support small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs across the region.
Mitsubishi’s Kim Ito Named Among Top 100 Leading Women in North American Auto Industry
In a bold testament to innovation, leadership, and the rise of women in executive roles, Kim Ito, Chief Marketing Officer at Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA), has been named to the prestigious 2025 list of Automotive News' 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry. This accolade honors the industry's most influential female executives who are making groundbreaking decisions and transforming the landscape of automotive marketing and technology.
Rep. Al Green Files Impeachment Articles, Cites Trump as Threat to Democracy in ‘Dear Colleague’ Letter
Today, Congressman Al Green announced on the floor of the House of Representatives that I have filed H.Res.415 to impeach President Donald John Trump for condoning the flouting of federal court orders, flouting the separation of powers, undermining the independence of the federal judiciary, and flouting the constitutional mandate of due process - devolving our democracy into a de facto dictatorship with himself as the de facto dictator.
Fort Bend County to Host 2025 Memorial Day Ceremony Honoring Fallen Heroes
Fort Bend County Judge KP George and the Commissioners Court invite the public to attend the 2025 Memorial Day Ceremony—a solemn observance dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who sacrificed in service to our nation.
Billboards and Bold Voices: Albuquerque's Campaign to Curb Black Overdose Crisis with Naloxone Awareness
In a city where community action meets public health innovation, Albuquerque, New Mexico is becoming a model of life-saving awareness. Along major highways and in neighborhoods where the overdose crisis has taken too many lives, a bold message is rising from towering billboards: “You Have The Power to Save Lives.” Backed by the national nonprofit Vital Strategies, this initiative is placing naloxone—commonly known by its brand name Narcan—into the hands of those who need it most
ABC News' Emmy-Nominated Coverage of 10 Million Names Project Illuminates Untold Histories of Enslaved Americans
In a historic nod to the power of storytelling and ancestral reclamation, ABC News Live has earned a prestigious national Emmy® nomination for its poignant and groundbreaking coverage of 10 Million Names, a collaborative project spearheaded by American Ancestors®. This remarkable effort aims to recover and preserve the identities of an estimated 10 million enslaved men, women, and children who lived in what is now the United States before emancipation in 1865.
Closing the Visibility Gap: How the Best of BuyBlack.org Awards Are Transforming Support for Black-Owned Businesses
“Buy Black” has become a rallying cry across communities nationwide — a call to action that blends cultural pride with economic empowerment. But while intent to support Black-owned businesses is at an all-time high, many consumers still face a fundamental question: Where do I find them?
Teach For America Houston and EMERGE Unite in New Shared Space to Advance Educational Equity
In a powerful demonstration of collaboration and community-driven progress, Teach For America (TFA) Houston and EMERGE celebrated the opening of their new shared office space with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, May 6. Located at 3555 Timmons Lane, this bold move symbolizes far more than a change of address—it marks a united front in the fight for educational equity across Houston.
The Galleria Welcomes Luxury Retail Growth with New Openings and ZEGNA Transformation
The Galleria, Houston’s crown jewel of upscale shopping, has once again raised the bar in luxury retail with the unveiling of new storefronts and a dramatic renovation from one of its cornerstone designers. As the city’s premier destination for style, innovation, and experiential shopping, The Galleria continues to evolve, offering shoppers both local and international an unrivaled mix of fashion, culture, and family-friendly experiences.
Tom Cruise Honored with Prestigious BFI Fellowship: A Testament to His Enduring Impact on Global and UK Cinema
In a star-studded evening that celebrated cinematic excellence and cultural collaboration, international film icon Tom Cruise was awarded the British Film Institute (BFI) Fellowship—the BFI’s highest honor—during the annual BFI Chair’s Dinner on May 12th at the Rosewood Hotel in London. The award was presented by Cruise’s longtime friend and creative partner, Christopher McQuarrie, the visionary director behind many of Cruise’s high-octane blockbusters.
Honoring Our Elders: HHSC Promoted Lifelong Wellness and Support During Older Texans Month
In May, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) proudly celebrated Older Texans Month by spotlighting a wide range of resources designed to empower seniors across the Lone Star State. With more than 5.9 million Texans aged 60 and older, according to the Texas Demographic Center, HHSC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering healthy aging, meaningful relationships, and community engagement.
Houston Unites for Safety: Thousands Attended the Largest Disaster Readiness & Resilience Expo Ahead of Hurricane Season
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Houstonians turned out in force at the George R. Brown Convention Center for the Disaster Readiness and Resilience Clinic & Expo, the city’s largest preparedness event ahead of hurricane season. Presented by CenterPoint Energy, this dynamic and timely initiative gathered thousands of residents, local agencies, non-profits, and emergency response teams with one unified mission: to strengthen the region’s disaster readiness and community resilience.
African American Women in Cinema Celebrates 25 Years of Empowering Women Filmmakers: Honoring Skye Marshall and Premiering To Live and Die and Live
A bold spotlight will shine on the legacy, brilliance, and resilience of Black women in film as the African American Women in Cinema (AAWIC) organization marks a powerful milestone: its 25th Annual AAWIC Film Festival, set for May 15–17, 2025, at LaGuardia Community College. For a quarter-century, AAWIC has elevated the voices of African American women in film, championing authentic storytelling and equitable representation both behind and in front of the camera.
he Ensemble Theatre Serves Up a Bold Slice of Black Brotherhood with “Coconut Cake”
The Ensemble Theatre is turning up the heat this season with the premiere of “Coconut Cake,” a soul-stirring stage production that explores the heart and humor of Black male relationships. Written by acclaimed playwright Melda Beaty and directed by the award-winning Eileen J. Morris, Artistic Director of The Ensemble Theatre, the play opens this weekend in Houston with a wave of community anticipation.
Al B. Sure! Amplifies the Call for Health Equity in Organ Transplantation on National Stage
Music icon and health advocate Al B. Sure! is leveraging his powerful voice far beyond the stage, stepping boldly into the national spotlight to champion health equity in organ transplantation. As the Executive Chairman of the Health Equity in Transplantation Coalition (HEiTC), Sure! appeared on Good Day New York this morning to shed light on a cause close to his heart—advocating for equal access to lifesaving transplant care, particularly in underserved communities.
Celebrating Courage, Legacy, and Discovery: Holocaust Museum Houston Presents “Ilan Ramon: A Life and Legacy
In a compelling tribute to the enduring power of hope, science, and resilience, Holocaust Museum Houston proudly presents the exhibition "Ilan Ramon: A Life and Legacy", opening on Thursday, May 29, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Lester and Sue Smith Human Rights Gallery. This inspiring exhibition commemorates the extraordinary life of Ilan Ramon, Israel’s first astronaut and a global symbol of perseverance and purpose.
Casting Honor and Healing: The 14th Annual “Salute the Heroes” Fishing Tournament Unites Veterans and Community in Galveston
Beneath the golden sunrise over the Gulf Coast, more than 100 American heroes—veterans and active-duty service members—will set sail for a day of celebration, connection, and healing at the 14th Annual “Salute the Heroes” Fishing Tournament, hosted by the Heroes for Freedom Foundation. Taking place at Waterman’s Marina in Galveston, this cherished event returns bigger than ever, promising a powerful blend of competitive spirit, community camaraderie, and heartfelt appreciation for those who’ve bravely served our nation.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Launches Bold ‘Envy of the World’ Air Traffic Control Overhaul Amid Growing Safety Concerns
In a landmark move set to redefine the future of American aviation, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled an ambitious new initiative to modernize the nation’s long-outdated air traffic control infrastructure. Aptly titled the ‘Envy of the World’ framework, the sweeping proposal seeks to catapult the U.S. into a new era of flight safety and efficiency—replacing antiquated systems with cutting-edge technology designed for the 21st century.
The FAA has had equipment issues for decades, causing real-world problems. The DOT says it wants to fix it
When radar and communications failed at a facility that manages planes preparing to land at New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport last week, it placed the deteriorating technology of the Federal Aviation Administration in the spotlight.
Denser Housing, Stronger Cities: New Study Shows How Compact Growth Pays Off for Texas Communities
As Texas continues to grow by more than 1,500 new residents each day, a groundbreaking study from Texas 2036 and the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture offers a fresh perspective on how cities can manage that growth without breaking the bank. The report, “Fiscal Implications of Urban Density,” reveals that cities embracing medium- and high-density housing developments—such as townhomes, small apartment complexes, and multifamily units—can generate significantly more revenue while spending less on infrastructure maintenance than traditional suburban sprawl.
Fort Bend County Launches 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Campaign with Digital Countdown Billboards
This morning, Fort Bend County Judge KP George, alongside officials from the Fort Bend County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management and Clear Channel Outdoor, officially launched the County’s 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Campaign. The event was held at the South Main Service Station in Stafford.
Houston Chamber Choir’s Triumphant Season Finale Honors Founder Robert Simpson’s Enduring Legacy
As Houston’s arts scene continues to thrive, one of its most cherished institutions is preparing to close a historic chapter. The Houston Chamber Choir will present Gather ‘Round on Saturday, May 31, a poignant and powerful season finale that also marks the final regular concert under the baton of its visionary founder and Artistic Director, Robert Simpson. Held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, this much-anticipated performance is the culmination of a remarkable 30-year journey that transformed the Choir from a passionate dream into a Grammy® Award-winning vocal powerhouse.
As Federal Aid Shrinks, Black-Led Food Justice Movements Step Up to Combat Hunger and Inequality
As federal food assistance programs face deep cuts and school meal rollbacks accelerate, food insecurity is surging to crisis levels across the United States. According to the latest USDA data, over 44 million Americans, including 13 million children, are living in food-insecure households. The burden falls disproportionately on communities of color, where systemic barriers continue to block access to fresh, nutritious food—fueling chronic health conditions, academic underperformance, and intergenerational poverty.
Houston Native Supports National Defense with Life-Saving Effort Aboard Naval Base Kitsap
In a powerful display of patriotism and service, Houston’s own Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Aircraft Handling) 3rd Class Camriyon Smith recently contributed to a life-saving mission far from home. Stationed at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton in Washington state, Smith participated in a U.S. Navy-led blood drive on May 6, 2025—an effort aimed at supporting ongoing military operations and emergency readiness.
This Mother’s Day, Consider the Children Still Waiting for a Mom
Every night across America, thousands of children go to bed unsure if they’ll wake up in the same room—or even the same home—tomorrow. Their dreams of being loved by a stable, nurturing family are too often replaced with the reality of being moved from one foster home to another.
Galveston Native Supports Global Security Aboard USS Nimitz: Texas Sailor Helps Keep the “Mighty Shrikes” Mission-Ready in the Indo-Pacific
In the heart of the Pacific, where diplomacy meets defense, a son of Galveston, Texas, is making waves aboard one of the U.S. Navy’s most formidable assets. Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Apprentice Wallace Barnes, alongside Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Aldred Arandia of Vallejo, California, was recently photographed conducting critical maintenance on an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Mighty Shrikes" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94 aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN 68).
Texas Southern University Reopens Historic Rhinehart Auditorium After $3.5M Renovation—A Melodic Legacy Restored
Texas Southern University (TSU), one of the nation’s most revered historically Black universities, is striking a celebratory chord with the grand reopening of its beloved Charles P. Rhinehart Music Auditorium. Following a $3.5 million renovation and years of anticipation, the storied performance hall will welcome students, alumni, and the public on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, for a day filled with reflection, music, and cultural pride.
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