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Francis Page Jr.

Stories by Francis

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H-Town Heats Up the UFL: Roughnecks, Curt Menefee & Dany Garcia Kick Off a New Era in Spring Football

On a night when Houston’s skyline shimmered with electric pride, TDECU Stadium became the launchpad for more than just a football game—it became the heartbeat of a movement. The United Football League (UFL) officially kicked off its 2025 season in a primetime showdown between the Houston Roughnecks and the St. Louis Battlehawks, with the energy of an NFL playoff and the intimacy of a hometown block party.

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Smart Shopping, Big Heart: Joe V’s Smart Shop Opens 12th Store and Doubles Down in Dallas

Everything's bigger in Texas—and that includes savings, service, and soul. H-E-B’s beloved discount banner, Joe V’s Smart Shop, just unlocked another major milestone with the grand opening of its 12th location statewide, nestled in the heart of Dallas on Samuell Boulevard. This marks the second Joe V’s in Dallas and is a bold move that reinforces the grocery giant’s unwavering commitment to North Texas—and the everyday Texan.

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ILTexas Breaks Ground in Liberty County: A New Chapter in Educational Excellence Begins

In a rousing celebration of growth, grit, and groundbreaking education, International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas) turned the first symbolic shovelful of dirt for its future Liberty High School in the heart of the thriving Colony Ridge community. And while the rain may have nudged the event indoors, spirits soared as students, parents, community leaders, and dignitaries gathered on March 27 to mark a defining moment not only for Liberty County — but for Texas’ entire public charter school landscape.

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💥 H-Town Hysteria! UH Cougars Charge Into Final Four, Fans Take Over Avenida Houston 💥

March Madness has never looked so Houston. The University of Houston Cougars—our hometown heroes and No. 1 seed—have stormed their way into the 2025 NCAA Final Four, and the city is ready to roar! With red pride blazing, Houston First Corporation and UH Athletics are co-hosting the Official Final Four Watch Party at none other than The Plaza at Avenida Houston—and you're invited to rep your Coogs!

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Spotlight on Tomorrow’s Stars: The 2025 Tommy Tune Awards Light Up Houston’s Theatre Scene

🎭✨ Cue the lights, raise the curtain, and let the magic unfold! Houston’s high school theatre scene is taking center stage once again as Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) proudly announces the finalists for the much-anticipated 2025 Tommy Tune Awards. Celebrating talent, dedication, and the irreplaceable joy of live theatre, this iconic event is more than a ceremony—it’s a citywide standing ovation for the stars of tomorrow.

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Prairie View A&M University Breaks Ground on the Future: A Bold Leap Forward in Education Excellence

On a brisk Texas morning filled with pride, purpose, and promise, Prairie View A&M University officially broke ground on what is being heralded as a transformational milestone in the institution's enduring legacy of academic excellence—the Teaching and Academic Student Support Services Building.

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Rooted in Innovation: HCC Katy Celebrates Nancy Dillon Itz Greenhouse Ribbon Cutting

In a vibrant ceremony blooming with purpose and promise, Houston Community College (HCC) Katy campus officially cut the ribbon on the brand-new Nancy Dillon Itz Greenhouse on March 19, ushering in a new era of hands-on education for students pursuing careers in modern agriculture and environmental science.

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Texas Southern University’s Tiger Ball 2025: A Black-Tie Triumph of Scholarships, Soul, and Style

Get ready, Houston! The countdown is on for one of the city's most impactful and elegant evenings—Texas Southern University’s (TSU) 4th Annual Tiger Ball, happening Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the grand George R. Brown Convention Center. Whether you're a proud TSU alum, a steadfast supporter of Black excellence in higher education, or simply a fan of fine dining with a cause, this is your night to shine

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Houston Style Magazine Celebrates 10 Delicious Years of Black Restaurant Week–Houston: A Culinary Movement Fueled by Flavor, Culture, and Community Empowerment

Cue the confetti and fire up the fryers—Black Restaurant Week–Houston is turning 10, and this is no ordinary anniversary. What began as a passionate idea cooked up right here in the Bayou City has simmered into a nationwide culinary revolution that has uplifted thousands of Black-owned food businesses from Houston to Harlem and beyond.

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🚨 Measles Alert: Houston Health Department Sounds the Alarm to Protect the City We Love

Houston, we’ve got a problem — but we’ve also got the power to fix it. The Houston Health Department (HHD) has launched an urgent investigation into potential measles exposures linked to Fort Bend County’s first confirmed case of the disease. Although this specific case is travel-related and not tied to the outbreak in West Texas, the warning sirens are blaring for Houston-area residents — and it’s time to pay attention.

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A Towering Tribute: Downtown Houston Building Renamed for Beloved Mayor Sylvester Turner

In a heartfelt and unanimous decision that echoes across city streets and hearts alike, Harris County Commissioners voted to rename the towering Lamar Plaza building in downtown Houston to honor a man whose legacy touched every corner of this great city—former Mayor and U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner.

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Get Ready to Shell-ebrate: Mystic Mermaid Oysters Take Center Stage for National Oysters on the Half Shell Day at Fish City Grill

Oyster lovers, mark your calendars and loosen your belts—Monday, March 31, 2025, is National Oysters on the Half Shell Day, and Fish City Grill is bringing the flavor, the flair, and a little mermaid magic to your plate.

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Texas Black Expo 2025: Star Power, Purpose, and Prosperity Converge in Houston

📍 George R. Brown Convention Center | 🗓️ May 2–4, 2025

Houston, get ready for the ultimate celebration of Black excellence, enterprise, and empowerment! The Texas Black Expo (TBE) is back for its electrifying 2025 Summer Celebration—and this year, the stakes, star power, and statewide reach are higher than ever. Set against the bustling backdrop of the George R. Brown Convention Center, from May 2–4, this year’s theme, "Connecting for Contracts," turns vision into velocity for minority-owned businesses across Texas and beyond.

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Rev. Al Sharpton & DA Alvin Bragg Set to Ignite the National Conversation on Justice Reform at 2025 NAN Convention

This spring, New York City is about to feel the heat—not just from spring’s early bloom, but from the powerful voices set to converge at the 2025 National Action Network (NAN) Convention. Leading the charge is none other than civil rights icon Reverend Al Sharpton, who’s turning up the volume on America’s most urgent justice conversations with a not-to-be-missed fireside chat alongside Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

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Celebrate Wellness, Community & Culture at the 2025 Houston Black Family Wellness Expo

Houston, get ready! On Saturday, March 29, 2025, Finnigan Park will transform into a vibrant hub of health, hope, and healing as the Houston Area Chapters of The Links, Incorporated present the 2025 Black Family Wellness Expo — and trust us, you won’t want to miss a moment of it.

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Texas Rising: Reps. Casar and Crockett Lead Bold Democratic Charge Against Trump and Musk

In a nation where political courage can sometimes feel like a rare gem, two bold Texas Democrats are refusing to stay silent. U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (D-Austin) and Jasmine Crockett (D-Dallas) have stepped up to the national stage, not just to resist former President Donald Trump’s influence—but to ignite a new fire in the Democratic Party. Their shared mission? To champion working families, hold billionaires accountable, and remind America that Texas Democrats still know how to shake things up.

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Beto and Walz Bring the Town Hall to the People in Fort Bend County — While GOP Hides from the Mic

On Thursday, March 27, two Democratic powerhouses—Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and former Texas Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke—are teaming up to host a dynamic Congressional Town Hall in none other than battleground Fort Bend County. The event, held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg, TX, kicks off at 6:00 p.m. CT and promises to be more than just a listening session—it's a launchpad for action, advocacy, and accountability.

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Free Tax Prep with a Heart: AARP Partners with Fort Bend Libraries to Help You File with Confidence

Tax season doesn’t have to mean stress—at least not for residents of Fort Bend County. In a shining example of community care and support, Fort Bend County Libraries are once again teaming up with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) to offer free income-tax preparation assistance to qualifying residents.

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CARL LEWIS PASSES THE TORCH—TO HORSEPOWER: OLYMPIC LEGEND TO LEAD 2025 ART CAR PARADE

Houston’s streets are about to get a golden glow — and it’s not just from chrome bumpers and glitter paint. The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art has proudly crowned its 2025 Art Car Parade Grand Marshal, and it’s none other than the “Athlete of the Century” himself — nine-time Olympic gold medalist and University of Houston icon, Carl Lewis.

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Art for the World, Heart from NY: ArtExpo 2025 Returns with Global Glamour and Timeless Creativity

The Big Apple is brushing up for its most colorful homecoming yet— ArtExpo New York is back! From April 3–6, 2025, Pier 36 in Manhattan will once again transform into the epicenter of global creativity, hosting a dazzling four-day spectacle of fine art, passion, and innovation that’s as timeless as a Warhol original and as fresh as a Banksy surprise.

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Amanda Edwards: A Trailblazing Leader Poised to Elevate Houston in Washington

Amanda Edwards, a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to service, has officially announced her candidacy to represent Texas’ 18th Congressional District. Her decision comes in the wake of the passing of U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner, a figure whose leadership she deeply respects. For Edwards, this campaign is not just about winning an election—it’s about continuing the legacy of advocacy, empowerment, and transformative change for Houston’s communities.

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Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Harris Health Partners with WBEA for an Exclusive Coffee & Conversations Event

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Harris Health is joining forces with the Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance (WBEA) to host an exclusive Coffee & Conversations event on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. This virtual webinar, featuring the esteemed Dr. April Day, PhD, will provide invaluable insights into how WBEA empowers women entrepreneurs through certification, networking, and strategic business growth.

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Houston’s March Madness: The Ultimate Watch Party for UH Cougars Fans!

It’s March, it’s Madness, and it’s all about the Cougars! Houston is rolling out the red carpet—literally—for the city’s beloved University of Houston Cougars as they battle it out in Round 1 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. But here’s the twist: they’re facing off against another pack of Cougars—Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

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A Lasting Legacy: Remembering Darryl B. Carter – A Friend, A Leader, A Force for Good

Losing a friend is never easy. Losing a friend like Darryl B. Carter feels nearly impossible. His presence, wisdom, and unwavering support were cornerstones in the lives of so many, from political corridors to corporate boardrooms, from personal friendships to community advocacy.

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Temika (TJ) Broussard Jones: A Powerhouse in Houston’s Housing Evolution

Houston’s housing landscape is set to reach new heights with the appointment of Temika (TJ) Broussard Jones as Deputy Director of the City of Houston’s Housing and Community Development Department (HCD), effective March 15, 2025. Recognized for her unparalleled financial expertise and dedication to community growth, TJ’s promotion marks a significant step forward in Houston’s mission to create equitable, affordable housing solutions for all.

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Texas Southern University Study Reveals Strong Support for Medicaid Expansion, Recreational Marijuana, and Casino Gambling in Texas

New Research Highlights Majority Support Among Texans, With Black Voters Leading the Push for Policy Change

A groundbreaking new study from the Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center at Texas Southern University (TSU) sheds light on the shifting political landscape in Texas. The survey, which examined the opinions of registered voters statewide, reveals that a majority of Texans—and an overwhelming supermajority of Black Texans—support key legislative changes, including Medicaid expansion, the legalization of recreational marijuana, and the introduction of Las Vegas-style casino resorts.

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Harvard's Bold Move: Free Tuition for Students from Families Earning $200K or Less

In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the future of higher education, Harvard University has announced a tuition-free initiative for students from families earning $200,000 or less per year. This game-changing decision, effective for the 2025-26 academic year, makes one of the world’s most prestigious institutions significantly more accessible to middle-class and lower-income students across America.

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Trumps War On Immigrants and Resilience of Houston’s Communities

The streets of Houston pulsed with en- ergy as thousands of protestors took to the pavement, their voices echosands Organized By F.I.E.L. - For Families and Their Education – PROTEST Against ICE Raids

The streets of Houston pulsed with energy as thousands of protestors took to the pavement, their voices echoing through the city’s corridors with a singular demand—justice for immigrants. The gathering on Sunday, February 2, 2025, organized by FIEL Houston (Familias Inmigrantes y Estudiantes en la Lucha), was a defiant rebuke of the relentless anti-immi- grant policies that have defined President Donald Trump’s tenure.

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H-E-B Expands to Montgomery: A Game-Changer for the Growing Community

Montgomery, Texas, is on the brink of a major transformation, and leading the charge is none other than H-E-B, Texas’ beloved grocery powerhouse. With groundbreaking slated for August 2025, the highly anticipated 127,186-square-foot store is expected to redefine grocery shopping in the city while fueling economic growth in one of the fastest-expanding regions near Lake Conroe.

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Discovery Green Nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best City Park Award, Public Voting Now Open

Discovery Green, Houston’s premier 12-acre urban park, has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award in the Best City Park category. This nomination highlights the park’s role as a vibrant, community-driven space offering year-round events, public art, and lush green landscapes for both Houstonians and visitors.

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Texas Southern University Debate Team Secures Historic International Championship Win

Texas Southern University (TSU) Debate Team has once again etched its name in history, emerging as the champions of the 35th Annual International Forensics Association’s Speech and Debate Tournament, held from March 7-9 in Incheon, South Korea.

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Honoring Legacy & Empowering the Future: HSPVA Black Alumni Network Scholarship Gala

The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts Black Alumni Network (HSPVA BAN) proudly presents the 2025 HSPVA Black Alumni Network Scholarship Benefit Soirée, an evening dedicated to celebrating Black artistic excellence, honoring influential trailblazers, and raising funds to support the next generation of creative talent.

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Texas Southern University Day at the Capitol: Tigers Advocate for Legislative Priorities

March 7, 2025 (HOUSTON) — The spirit of Texas Southern University roared through the halls of the Texas State Capitol as more than 70 TSU students, alumni, and community leaders gathered for TSU Day at the Capitol. This pivotal advocacy day was not just about presence—it was about power, purpose, and policy.

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Tesla Powers Up Brookshire: A $200M ‘Megafactory’ Bringing 1,500 Jobs to West Houston

Brookshire, Texas—Tesla is once again shaking up the Texas economy, and this time, it’s turbocharging job creation in the heart of Waller County. The electric vehicle and clean energy giant is investing nearly $200 million to establish a state-of-the-art “Megafactory” in Brookshire’s Empire West Business Park—bringing at least 1,500 advanced manufacturing jobs and a multi-million-dollar economic boost to West Houston.

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A Bold New Era: Mayor Whitmire and Houston First Unveil Visionary Downtown Transformation

Houston is getting a serious glow-up! With a vision as bold as the city’s skyline, Mayor John Whitmire and Houston First Corporation have unveiled an ambitious master plan to transform East Downtown into a world-class convention and entertainment district. This game-changing project will reconnect Houston’s East End with downtown, creating an electrifying, pedestrian-friendly hub that solidifies the Bayou City’s reputation as a top-tier destination for business, entertainment, and innovation.

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A Timeless Ballet Classic Returns: Houston Ballet’s “The Sleeping Beauty” Awakens the Stage

Beauty at the Wortham Theater Center from Thursday, March 13 to Sunday, March 23, 2025. A beacon of artistic excellence in the performing arts, Houston Ballet continues to inspire generations with its spellbinding performances, unparalleled technical mastery, and deep-rooted commitment to storytelling through dance.

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A Legacy of Leadership: Honoring The Life of Sylvester Turner

The city of Houston has lost one of its most beloved sons. Former Houston Mayor and U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner, a towering figure in Texas politics, passed away on Holy Ash Wednesday at the age of 70. On Wednesday morning, March 5th, at approximately 5:45 a.m., he died at his home from en- during health complications. The Turner family is requesting fervent prayers from all who knew and loved him. We also re- quest the public’s respect for our family’s privacy as we process this difficult reality. Official communication will come from his staff at the appropriate time.

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HCC and Fort Bend Chamber Forge Dynamic Workforce Partnership to Empower Local Talent

A Transformative Alliance Paving the Way for High-Demand Careers

Houston Community College (HCC) and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce have officially cemented a groundbreaking workforce training partnership, a bold initiative aimed at reshaping career pathways in Fort Bend County. The signing ceremony, held on March 5 at HCC’s Missouri City campus, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s commitment to workforce excellence and economic empowerment.

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Bun B’s Birthday Bonanza: A Star-Studded Houston Rodeo Celebration!

H-Town’s own rap legend, Bun B, is back at it again—this time, bringing a Birthday Bonanza like no other to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Set to take over NRG Stadium on March 7, this event is not just a concert; it’s a cultural moment, a celebration of Black Heritage Day, and a Houston love letter in the form of music and entertainment.

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Texas Southern University’s Power Move: Advocating for the Future at the Texas Capitol

Houston’s own Texas Southern University is taking its impact straight to the halls of power in Austin, calling on students, alumni, and the community to stand strong for the future of higher education in Texas.

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Visit Lake Charles Team Raises the Bar in Travel Leadership and Destination Marketing

Lake Charles might be known for its glittering casinos, mouth-watering Cajun cuisine, and lively festivals, but it’s also home to a trio of tourism professionals shaking up Louisiana tourism. Visit Lake Charles’ own Aubrey Caldwell, Madison Yates, and Kristen Shiver have leveled up their expertise through the prestigious Louisiana Tourism Leadership Academy (LTLA) and by earning Certified Travel Specialist (CTS) certifications. These achievements mark milestones in their careers and spell good news for travelers – especially Houstonians looking for an enhanced getaway just down I-10.

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Doja Cat Unleashes Fierce Glamour on the Oscars 2025 Red Carpet

The Oscars 2025 red carpet just got a wild upgrade, thanks to none other than Doja Cat. The chart-topping, genre-defying artist turned heads and broke the internet in a jaw-dropping, leopard-print sequined corset gown that was equal parts fierce and fabulous.

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UH’s Women’s History Month Luncheon: A Conversation with Dr. Simmons

Dr. Ruth J. Simmons is a trailblazing leader in higher education, currently a President’s Distinguished Fellow at Rice University and a Senior Adviser to the president of Harvard University. She previously served as president of Prairie View A&M, Brown University, and Smith College, where she launched impactful academic initiatives. A Dillard University graduate with a Harvard Ph.D., she has held leadership roles at Princeton and Spelman College and serves on numerous influential boards.

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Houston’s Hospitality Boom: A Record-Breaking Year for Conventions, Tourism, and Economic Growth

Houston is on fire—economically speaking—and the numbers don’t lie! The city’s hospitality sector just crushed records left and right in 2024, making it one of the most exciting times for Houston’s booming tourism industry. From record hotel bookings to unprecedented air travel traffic, Space City is proving why it’s not just a great place to visit—it’s the place to be.

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Costco vs. Sam’s Club: The Texas Showdown – Why Costco Reigns Supreme

When it comes to warehouse shopping, two giants dominate the landscape: Costco and Sam’s Club. But let’s be real— Costco is in a league of its own. With unbeatable prices, premium product selection, a cult-like following for its legendary $1.50 hot dog combo, and an aggressive expansion plan, Costco is setting the standard. And for Texas shoppers, the good news keeps rolling in: more Costco locations are opening in 2025, making it even easier to ditch the competition.

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Revolutionizing the Arts: Edison Arts Foundation Hosts Exclusive Hamilton Dance Master Class with Jorge Guerra

Prepare for a historic leap forward in the local arts scene! The Edison Arts Foundation (EAF), a powerhouse in community arts development, is set to make waves yet again by hosting an electrifying Hamilton Dance Master Class led by none other than Broadway’s own Jorge Guerra.

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Harris Health System Appoints New Leadership to Elevate Patient Care Across Hospitals, Ambulatory Services, and Correctional Health

The Harris Health System is stepping boldly into a new era of healthcare leadership, streamlining its executive structure to better serve Houston’s dynamic and diverse population. In a historic move, the organization has introduced three new CEO positions, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence, community engagement, and patient-centered care.

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Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman, Wife, and Dog Found Dead in Their New Mexico Home

The golden age of Hollywood has dimmed as the world mourns the loss of two-time Academy Award winner Gene Hackman, who was discovered lifeless alongside his beloved wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home. The devastating discovery was made Wednesday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond. Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of death, though foul play is not suspected.

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🏡 Acres Homes Welcomes a Stunning New Build: Open House This Sunday! 🚪✨

Houston’s real estate market is sizzling, and there’s a golden opportunity waiting for homebuyers in Acres Homes! If you’ve been dreaming of modern luxury combined with affordability, your search ends here.

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PlazAmericas to Host Quinceañera & Bride Expo This March

PlazAmericas tenants come together with this expo for attendees to enjoy a fashion show, giveaways, live entertainment, food, and more!

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