Cadillac Unveils the Opulent Velocity Concept: A Visionary Leap into All-Electric Luxury Performance
In a world where the future of automotive innovation meets timeless luxury, Cadillac has once again redefined the boundaries with the introduction of the Opulent Velocity concept. This groundbreaking vehicle is not just a car; it's an experience—a pure expression of Cadillac's unwavering commitment to electrification, autonomous technology, and the ultimate in luxury performance.
Luis Fonsi and Linda Perry Unite for “City of Dreams”: A Powerful Anthem for an Unforgettable Film
The cinematic world is abuzz with anticipation as director Mohit Ramchandani unveils the stirring music video for "City of Dreams," the title track of his upcoming film. This isn't just any music video; it's a masterful collaboration between 5-time Latin Grammy-winning artist Luis Fonsi, the voice behind the global sensation “Despacito,” and the iconic songwriter Linda Perry, who’s penned hits like Christina Aguilera’s “Beautiful” and Pink’s “Let’s Get the Party Started.”
Biden-Harris Administration Powers Up America’s Future: $99.6 Million Investment in Clean Energy and Biofuels
In a powerful stride towards a greener and more sustainable future, the Biden-Harris Administration marked the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act with a monumental announcement. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack revealed a groundbreaking $99.6 million investment in 160 clean energy and biofuel projects across 26 states. This initiative, a cornerstone of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, is set to transform the energy landscape, create new market opportunities, and fuel the nation's economic growth from the middle out and bottom up.
LGBTQ+ Leaders and Allies to Shine at the DNC: An Evening of Celebration and Historic Achievements
Prepare for an electrifying evening as LGBTQ+ icons and their unwavering allies converge in Chicago for the highly anticipated "Victory at the DNC" event, hosted by the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute. This celebration is more than just a gathering; it’s a testament to the trailblazing progress and indomitable spirit of the LGBTQ+ community within the Democratic Party.
Meow Wolf Launches Second Comin’ to YOUston Giveaway: A Dino-Themed Art Car Ride and Saint Arnold’s Brewing Feast
Get ready, Houston foodies! Meow Wolf is back with their second thrilling installment of the Comin’ to YOUston Giveaway, promising an extraordinary adventure that combines art, cuisine, and pure fun. This unique experience offers an exhilarating ride in a one-of-a-kind dinosaur-themed art car and a delectable feast from the renowned Saint Arnold’s Brewing, complete with a private brewery tour.
Black Spa Expo 2024 Unveils Historic Black Spa Museum and Hall of Fame
Get ready for an unparalleled experience as Candace Holyfield, also known as "The Six Figure Spa Chick," prepares to host the 6th Annual Black Spa Expo from September 13-15, 2024, in Atlanta. This year's event promises to be a landmark occasion, featuring the debut of the Black Spa Museum and the Black Spa Hall of Fame.
PFLAG Votes 2024 Launches “Love Votes” Campaign to Drive LGBTQ+ Voter Engagement
Today marks the launch of PFLAG Votes 2024 with its inspiring “Love Votes” campaign, an initiative designed to galvanize LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies for the crucial 2024 election. Embracing a message of hope and positivity, the campaign aims to engage voters nationwide to register, educate themselves on key issues, and mobilize their communities.
Jazz Houston Launches 2024-2025 Season with a Centennial Tribute to Sarah Vaughan
Saturday, September 7, 2024 | 7:00 PM | The Wortham Center’s Cullen Theatre
Jazz Houston is set to ignite the 2024-2025 season with an unforgettable celebration of jazz legend Sarah Vaughan’s 100th birthday. This milestone event will unfold on September 7, 2024, at The Wortham Center’s Cullen Theatre, promising an evening of dazzling performances and musical excellence.
EPA Announces $7.9 Million Clean School Bus Grant for Alief Independent School District
In a significant boost to green transportation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $7.9 million to Alief Independent School District (ISD) as part of President Biden’s Investing in America initiative. This grant will fund the acquisition of 20 cutting-edge electric school buses, marking a transformative step toward a more sustainable future for the district.
EPA Announces $7.9 Million Clean School Bus Grant for Alief Independent School District
In a significant boost to green transportation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $7.9 million to Alief Independent School District (ISD) as part of President Biden’s Investing in America initiative. This grant will fund the acquisition of 20 cutting-edge electric school buses, marking a transformative step toward a more sustainable future for the district.
New Agent Compensation Rules: A Looming Threat to Black Real Estate Professionals and Homeownership
In an era where the fight for equity in homeownership continues, a new threat looms large over Black real estate professionals and aspiring Black homeowners. Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, President of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), has sounded the alarm on upcoming changes in agent compensation formulas that could undermine the progress made in bridging the racial homeownership gap.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston Unveils "All in for Youth" Texas Hold'em Tournament
Get ready to shuffle up and deal for a cause! The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston (BGCGH) is excited to host its inaugural "All in for Youth" Texas Hold'em Tournament, proudly presented by Opportune. Set for Thursday, September 12th, this thrilling event will bring together poker enthusiasts and community champions for an evening of competitive play and impactful giving.
The Ultimate Driving Wagon: BMW Unleashes the M5 Touring in North America
BMW has once again redefined the boundaries of luxury performance with the introduction of the 2024 BMW M5 Touring, marking the first time this high-performance wagon is available in the United States. This isn’t just any station wagon—this is a BMW M5, engineered to thrill and built to impress.
Chevrolet’s “Discover the Unexpected” Internship Program: Empowering HBCU Talent for Eight Thrilling Years
Chevrolet is revving up its commitment to diversity and talent development with the eighth year of its “Discover the Unexpected” (DTU) internship program, a groundbreaking initiative in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). This year’s program kicked off on June 12 and culminated in a vibrant ceremony in Detroit on August 9, celebrating the achievements of ten exceptional HBCU students.
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.
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.
Lamar High School Celebrates Brian Orakpo’s Inspiring Legacy
On Saturday, August 10, 2024, Lamar High School proudly welcomed back one of its most distinguished alumni, Brian Orakpo, a celebrated football star from the Class of 2004. Orakpo returned to tour the school’s newly enhanced weight room, a facility funded by his generous contributions. This special event was not only a celebration of Orakpo's remarkable achievements but also a testament to the positive impact he has made on the Lamar community.
Tipsy Treats To-Go Unveils Irresistible New Happy Hour Menu with $9.99 Frozen Craft Cocktails and Southern Delights
If you’re looking to elevate your Happy Hour experience without breaking the bank, Tipsy Treats To-Go has just the thing! Houston’s leading adult beverage concierge and craft cocktails to-go destination is excited to announce its brand-new Happy Hour Menu, featuring a tantalizing array of $9.99 Frozen Craft Cocktails paired with mouthwatering Southern cuisine.
Communities In Schools of Houston Expands Impact with $443,152 Scaling for Success Grant
Communities In Schools of Houston (CIS) is set to make an even greater impact in the lives of students across the city, thanks to a significant grant of $443,152 from the national Scaling for Success initiative, funded by the Ballmer Group. This funding will allow CIS of Houston to expand its comprehensive support services to eight additional school campuses for the 2024-2025 school year, a move that will provide critical resources to even more students in need.
Texas-Sized Triumph: Winners Announced for 11th Annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best
In a celebration of Texas's rich entrepreneurial spirit, H-E-B proudly announced the winners of the 11th Annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best competition, held at Dallas’ iconic Fair Park. This year, four outstanding small businesses emerged victorious, taking home a total of $70,000 in prize money and the coveted opportunity to have their products featured on H-E-B store shelves across the state.
Ashley Jadine Foundation Presents 7th Annual H.O.P.E. 5K Walk and Health Fair
The Ashley Jadine Foundation (AJF) is proud to announce the 7th Annual H.O.P.E. 5K Walk and Health Fair, set to take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Kitty Hollow Park in Missouri City, TX. This year’s theme, "Helping One Person Everyday," continues the Foundation's mission of fostering hope and raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention in our communities.
$18M ARPA-H award supports Rice-led research on tumor analysis system for breast, head and neck cancer
Rice University, MD Anderson lead research team developing affordable system for immediate digital pathology of tumors during surgery
Rice University, a beacon of innovation and research in Houston, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative that could transform the landscape of cancer surgery. In a monumental stride for medical technology, a Rice University-led research team has secured up to $18 million in funding over five years from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). This funding will support the development and validation of a pioneering system known as AccessPath, designed to enhance the accuracy of tumor removal in breast, head, and neck cancers.
Houston Community Rallies Behind Young Hero D.J. Daniel in His Quest to Honor Law Enforcement
The heartwarming journey of Devarjaye "D.J." Daniel, a 12-year-old Houston boy with an indomitable spirit, continues to inspire countless people across the nation. Diagnosed with an incurable form of brain and spinal cancer, D.J. has embarked on a mission that transcends his illness: to be sworn in at 100 law enforcement agencies. But in true testament to his bravery and determination, D.J. has far exceeded that goal, with the current count standing at an awe-inspiring 844 agencies.
Habitual Sex Offender Sentenced to Life Without Parole for Child Molestation in Harris County
In a landmark case that underscores the severity of crimes against children, a 42-year-old registered sex offender has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Manuel Enrique Arana Jr., a habitual offender with a long history of preying on vulnerable individuals, was convicted by a Harris County jury for the continuous sexual assault of a child under the age of 14.
NAACP Houston Branch Position On City of Houston Proposed Picketing Ordinance
Protecting the First Amendment of the Constitution requires defending free speech and the rights to peaceful protest. All significant civil rights, human rights and social justice organizations align on the fact that protecting the First Amendment is key to preserving a functioning democracy.
Twin Liquors’ Annual Dollar Sale: Unbeatable Savings on Wine & Spirits, August 29-31, 2024
Mark your calendars, Texas! Twin Liquors, the beloved Texas-based and family-owned liquor chain, is bringing back its highly anticipated Dollar Sale from August 29-31, 2024. This annual event, which has become a staple for savvy shoppers and spirits enthusiasts alike, promises the lowest prices of the year on an impressive selection of wines and spirits.
LTYC's Black Leading Women's Celebration: A Monumental Success in Empowering and Honoring Women of Color
The Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Center (LTYC) is riding high on the overwhelming success of its 3rd Annual Black Leading Women's Celebration, an event that has become a beacon of empowerment and recognition for women of color. This year’s celebration, themed "Honoring the Impact of Rising Stars and Shining Legacies," marked a significant milestone in LTYC's mission to integrate the arts in education while uplifting Black women who are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings.
LTYC's Black Leading Women's Celebration: A Monumental Success in Empowering and Honoring Women of Color
The Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Center (LTYC) is riding high on the overwhelming success of its 3rd Annual Black Leading Women's Celebration, an event that has become a beacon of empowerment and recognition for women of color. This year’s celebration, themed "Honoring the Impact of Rising Stars and Shining Legacies," marked a significant milestone in LTYC's mission to integrate the arts in education while uplifting Black women who are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings.
The Periwinkle Foundation Hosts Annual Iron Bartender Competition to Support Pediatric Cancer Patients
The Periwinkle Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated Iron Bartender competition, set to take place on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the stylish Lyric Market in downtown Houston. This premier event brings together some of the city’s most talented bartenders for an evening of mixology, competition, and philanthropy—all in support of a noble cause.
CYCLE to Host Roaring 20th Anniversary Ball: Celebrating Two Decades of Transforming Childhood Literacy in Houston
CYCLE, a renowned Houston-based nonprofit, is set to mark a significant milestone this fall as it celebrates 20 years of empowering young readers. The organization, dedicated to enhancing literacy among second graders in Title 1 Schools across Greater Houston, will host its Roaring 20th Anniversary Ball on October 5, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. The celebration will take place at the luxurious OMNI Houston Hotel, located at 4 Riverway Dr., Houston, TX 77056.
Celebrating Excellence in Education: The 2024 Virani Distinguished School Leader Award Honors Houston’s Exceptional Principals
In a momentous celebration of educational leadership, Dr. Asha and Farid Virani, in partnership with Teach For America Houston, proudly announce the winners of the 2024 Virani Distinguished School Leader Award. This esteemed recognition highlights the exceptional dedication and transformative impact of two remarkable school leaders in the Greater Houston area. Each winner will receive a $10,000 grant to further their efforts in driving educational excellence and equity.
Navigating the College Application Process: Expert Tips to Empower Houston's Future Leaders
As the college application season approaches, the pressure to gain admission to prestigious universities is mounting for many students and their families. However, according to Greg Kaplan, a renowned college admissions strategist with years of experience guiding students and families, the focus should shift from the prestige of the institution to the individual growth and future success of the student.
Statement from Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth About November 2022 Elections
"The activities that occurred during the November 2022 elections in the now-defunct Elections Administrator’s Office do not reflect the integrity or operations of the Harris County Clerk’s Office.
East River Kicks Off Fall with a Dynamic Lineup of Events Along Buffalo Bayou
Midway’s East River is ushering in the fall season with a vibrant array of events that promise to transform the Buffalo Bayou into a bustling hub of music, culture, and community engagement. With its first phase now open to the public, East River invites Houstonians to explore its unique offerings through a series of free, lively gatherings designed to celebrate the city’s rich culture and diversity.
AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA BKLYN: Celebrating Black Creativity with a Battle of the Bands
AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA BKLYN is set to make its highly anticipated debut at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, from August 23 to 24, 2024. In partnership with BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!, this inaugural event will showcase an electrifying lineup of performances as AFROPUNK gears up for its momentous 20th anniversary in 2025. This summer, the festival promises an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and Black creativity, inviting attendees to come as they are and join in the festivities.
FBISD to Launch Stopfinder Bus Software for Enhanced Student Safety and Communication
Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) is set to roll out its innovative Stopfinder bus software system in the coming weeks, a significant upgrade designed to enhance safety and communication for students, parents, and school staff. This new system will empower families to verify bus route information, track arrival times, and confirm that their children are safely aboard the correct bus.
The Sanders Hand: Cultivating the Next Generation of Young Entrepreneurs with County Connections Grant
While most summer programming students are busy splashing in pools or enjoying arts and crafts, a remarkable group of middle and high school students enrolled in The Sanders Hand Young Billionaires Club is diving into the world of entrepreneurship and financial literacy. This dynamic nonprofit, founded in 2017 by Sebastian Sanders, is making waves in the Alief community by equipping at-risk youth across Harris County with essential skills to break the cycle of poverty.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Unveils Pioneering Sports Photography Book, *Game Changers*
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is set to release a groundbreaking book that captures the profound impact of Black athletes on American sports and culture. Titled *Game Changers: Sports Photographs from the National Museum of African American History and Culture*, this visually striking volume is slated for publication on September 17. As the first sports-focused edition in the museum’s esteemed Double Exposure series, the book features a collection of rare and powerful images that span over a century, showcasing the intersection of sports, history, and the African American experience.
2024 State of Tarrant County College: A Year of Unprecedented Achievements and Transformative Growth
Tarrant County College (TCC) is on an unstoppable trajectory, setting new benchmarks in academic excellence, community engagement, and career readiness. In her annual State of the College address, Chancellor Elva LeBlanc declared 2024 as the most impactful year in the institution's history, marking significant milestones that continue to elevate TCC as a leader in higher education.
Houston Native and Texas Tech Alum Lt. Daniel Galvan: A Legacy of Service and Leadership in the U.S. Navy
Lt. Daniel Galvan, a proud Houston native and Texas Tech University graduate, is making waves in the U.S. Navy as a dedicated surface warfare officer aboard the USS Barry, a formidable Navy destroyer. Currently stationed at Naval Station Everett in Washington, the USS Barry is undergoing routine maintenance in a Seattle shipyard, where Galvan and his fellow sailors are hard at work ensuring the ship's readiness for its next mission.
Houston Native, Fire Controlman 3rd Class Martin Galvan, Plays Vital Role in U.S. Navy’s Indo-Pacific Operations
Houston's own Fire Controlman 3rd Class Martin Galvan, currently serving aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4), is making significant contributions to the U.S. Navy's mission in the Indo-Pacific region. Galvan, a proud native of Houston, recently connected a RIM-162D Evolved Seasparrow surface missile to the NATO Seasparrow Missile System while the USS Boxer sailed through the Pacific Ocean on August 1, 2024.
The Junior League of Houston to Host Double Showings of Opening Style Show: Models of Style and Service
The Junior League of Houston is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated annual Opening Style Show, "Models of Style and Service," which will take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. For the first time, the event will feature not one, but two dazzling showings in the League’s elegant Ballroom, located at 1811 Briar Oaks Lane, Houston, Texas 77027.
All-Star Women's Boxing Lineup Aims to Knock Out Pay Disparity in Historic WBC Event
In a groundbreaking showcase of female athleticism, the World Boxing Council (WBC) is set to present an all-women’s boxing event on September 27 at the Lux Stage at Trilith Studios, Atlanta. This historic event, titled “Hit Like a Girl, Fight Like a Champion,” will feature the highly anticipated WBC Super Featherweight Championship, where reigning champion Alycia Baumgardner will defend her title against Belgium's seasoned fighter, Delfine Persoon.
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Galveston County August 13
FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Galveston County August 13 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. Center location: Galveston Historic Water & Electric Light Community Center 715 30th St. Galveston, TX 77550 The center operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find a Disaster Recovery Center location near you go to fema.gov/drc. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Houston Native Seaman Jacquelyn Klay Plays Key Role in RIMPAC 2024 Aboard USS Carl Vinson
Hailing from Houston, Texas, Seaman **Jacquelyn Klay** is making waves as she stands signalman watch in the hangar bay aboard the mighty **USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70)**. As the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier sails through the Pacific Ocean, Klay plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and safety of the ship during one of the world’s most significant maritime exercises, Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024.
Celebrate National Black Business Month with the Phenomenal I'MarE Boutique!
August is National Black Business Month, a time to celebrate and spotlight the extraordinary impact Black entrepreneurs have made across industries. This month, we turn our focus to one of Houston’s own success stories, the trailblazing I'MarE Boutique, founded by the unstoppable **Martha E. Elmore**. From humble beginnings to styling some of the biggest names in the gospel industry, Martha has transformed her passion into a thriving enterprise, all while inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
