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Francis Page Jr.

Stories by Francis

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Devil in a Cerulean Blue Dress: A 'Devil Wears Prada' Sequel in the Works

Gird your loins, fashion enthusiasts! The highly anticipated sequel to "The Devil Wears Prada" is reportedly in development, promising to bring back the iconic Miranda Priestly as she navigates the ever-evolving world of magazine publishing in the post-aughts era.

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Ice Cube's Big3 Basketball League Expands with a New Team in Houston

Houston, a city renowned for its rich sports culture and passionate fans, is set to welcome an exciting addition to its roster of professional teams. The BIG3 basketball league, founded by Hip-Hop icon Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz, is expanding to Houston, bringing its unique brand of 3-on-3 basket- ball to the Lone Star State.

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Unforgettable Evening of Magic and Entertainment with Harry Maurer and Guest Magicians

MagicNight Productions partners with Margaritaville Lake Resort in Lake Conroe to present "Magic at Margaritaville," a thrilling Saturday night show this summer featuring renowned magician Harry Maurer and special guest magicians from across the country.

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Mayor Whitmire Appoints Vonn Tran as New Director of Planning and Development Department

Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Vonn Tran as Houston's new Director of the Planning and Development Department, pending city council confirmation on July 17. With over 20 years in commercial real estate, Tran's leadership and expertise in Special Districts are poised to enhance urban development and community preservation efforts across the city.

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The Worst Decisions from the United States Supreme Court in 2024

As Americans celebrated their independence, the Supreme Court's MAGA-influenced majority issued rulings favoring corporate interests, weakening regulatory authority, and elevating presidential powers, posing significant risks to public health and democratic governance.

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Modern Heart and Vascular Institute Unveils State-of-the-Art Cardiovascular Center in TMC

Modern Heart and Vascular Institute opens a state-of-the-art cardiovascular center in Texas Medical Center, staffed by a team of renowned specialists, offering advanced diagnostic, preventative care, and comprehensive cardiovascular services to enhance healthcare accessibility for the Houston community.

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Paris 2024: A Grand Finale Celebrating Athletic Excellence and Unity

As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games conclude on August 11, the Closing Ceremony, directed by Thomas Jolly, will celebrate athletic achievements and emotions on a grand 2,800 m² platform at Stade de France, featuring performances, traditional elements, and a message of reflection and celebration.

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Ice Cube’s BIG3 Basketball League Expands with a New Team in Houston

Houston welcomes the BIG3 basketball league, founded by Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz, as energy executives Eric Mullins and Milton Carroll purchase rights to the third location-based franchise, marking the league's shift to a city-based model and promising an electrifying sports experience for the city.

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Houston Unites: Congressman Green and Congresswoman Garcia Lead Emergency Aid Post-Beryl

In response to Hurricane Beryl's devastating impact, Congressman Al Green and Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia secured a Federal Emergency Disaster Declaration from President Biden, ensuring essential funding for Houston's recovery and highlighting the community's resilience and their commitment to aiding affected constituents.

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H-E-B Summer of Sharing Brings Relief to Conroe Families

On June 29, 2024, the H-E-B Summer of Sharing tour made a significant stop in Conroe, Texas, co-hosting a much-needed drive-thru feeding event in collaboration with the Conroe Independent School District and Montgomery County Food Bank. The event took place at the Woodforest Bank Stadium and was designed to provide essential food supplies to families across Conroe and Montgomery County.

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These Ultra-Processed Foods May Shorten Your Life, National Cancer Institute Study Says

Eating higher levels of ultra-processed foods may shorten lifespans by more than 10%, according to a new, unpublished study of over 500,000 people whom researchers followed for nearly three decades. The risk went up to 15% for men and 14% for women once the data was adjusted, said study lead author Erikka Loftfield, an investigator at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland.

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H-E-B Opens New Store in Mansfield, Expands Presence in Tarrant County

H-E-B continues its impressive expansion in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area with the grand opening of its latest store in Mansfield, Tarrant County. This 128,000-square-foot facility marks the sixth H-E-B location in the Metroplex, joining recently opened stores in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Allen, and Alliance, along with a new Joe V’s Smart Shop in Dallas.

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Tyler Perry and 50 Cent Join Forces: A Collaboration of Vision and Success

In an exciting development for the entertainment industry, rapper-actor 50 Cent has found a new mentor in the iconic filmmaker Tyler Perry. The dynamic duo recently connected at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, marking the beginning of what promises to be a powerful collaboration.

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KIDPENDENCE DAY: A Spectacular Celebration at Children’s Museum Houston

Join us for a star-spangled celebration as Children’s Museum Houston throws a dazzling Kidpendence Day annual event on Thursday, July 4, starting at 9 a.m. This year, we’re pulling out all the stops to honor America’s 248th birthday with an unforgettable “Summer Escape.” Gather your family and friends to experience a day brimming with exhilarating activities, spectacular shows, and patriotic fun suitable for all ages. For tickets, click here: https://www.cmhouston.org/events/kidpendence-day

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HCC Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher Hosts Consular Corps of Houston and Unites to Expand Student Opportunities

In a momentous gathering at the Houston Community College (HCC) System office auditorium, Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher hosted the esteemed Consular Corps of Houston Luncheon. This event marked a significant step towards enhancing educational and economic opportunities for international students in Houston's diverse community.

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Bronny James Joins Lakers and Dad: A Historic NBA Milestone for the James Family

The anticipation has culminated in a historic moment. Bronny James, the eldest son of NBA superstar LeBron James, has found his place in the NBA, joining his father on the Los Angeles Lakers. Bronny James, one of the most closely watched amateur basketball players of the past decade, was selected 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Lakers. This significant milestone follows a challenging year filled with speculation and questions about his potential to play professionally after experiencing a cardiac arrest.

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2024 Houston Ski Jammers - Summertime Social

The Houston Ski Jammers recently hosted a vibrant summertime social event at Aspire Post Oak, bringing together members and enthusiasts to plan for the upcoming 2025 Annual National Brotherhood of Snowsports (NBS) Ski Summit. The event featured delicious food prepared by Chef Etchane Towers and included a warm welcoming statement by Andrea Yowman, President of the Houston Ski Jammers Black Ski Club. The summit is set to take place in Keystone, Colorado, from February 22 to March 1, 2025, promising a week of exhilarating winter sports and activities aimed at promoting diversity in Snowsports.

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Project 2025: A Threat to Democracy and Social Justice

Project 2025, unveiled by conservative think tanks, is being hailed by its proponents as a roadmap to restore America's greatness. However, beneath its veneer of patriotic rhetoric lies a stark reality: a blueprint that could undermine democracy, erode social justice, and deepen socio-economic divides. As we delve into the specifics, it becomes clear that Project 2025 poses significant threats to the principles of equality and fairness that underpin American society.

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NBS Chooses Keystone Resort for 2025 Summit: A Celebration of Inclusion and Winter Sports

The National Brotherhood of Snowsports (NBS) has announced Keystone Resort as the distinguished host for its 2025 Annual Ski Summit, marking a milestone in their commitment to fostering diversity in winter sports. Partnering with Vail Resorts, NBS will gather 58 member clubs and thousands of supporters worldwide from February 22 to March 1, 2025, for a week-long celebration of skiing, snowboarding, and community empowerment.

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JJ Redick Officially Named New Head Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have made an exciting announcement, officially naming JJ Redick as the franchise’s next head coach. Redick, who becomes the 29th head coach in the history of the Lakers and the 25th in the Los Angeles era, will be introduced at a press conference scheduled for Monday, June 24, at 1:30 p.m. PT. Fans can catch the live event on Spectrum SportsNet or the Lakers' YouTube channel.

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Remembering DeAndre Jones: A Call for Mental Health Awareness

In a heartbreaking announcement, legendary boxing champion Roy Jones Jr. shared that his son, DeAndre Jones, tragically passed away by suicide on Saturday at the age of 32. This devastating news has prompted Jones to emphasize the importance of mental health and the need for support during difficult times.

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Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Ida M. Lewis Ashford of Anahuac, Texas

Ida M. Lewis Ashford, born on October 12, 1930, in Double Bayou, Anahuac, Texas, was the second child of Mr. Robert Lewis and Mrs. Inez Lewis. Her passion for education and commitment to fostering learning in others left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Ida's life was a testament to the power of education and the positive impact a dedicated teacher can have on their community.

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Biden-Harris Campaign 2024 Commits $1.5 Million Advertising Buy with the Black Press of America

The Biden-Harris Campaign has made a significant move in securing support from Black voters by committing to a $1.5 million advertising buy with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). This partnership, which highlights the importance of the Black Press of America, aims to amplify the campaign’s message across the nation. The announcement was made at the NNPA’s 2024 Annual National Convention held in Baltimore, Maryland, from June 19-22, 2024.

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The Dire Consequences of a Terminally Corrupt and Authoritarian Federal Government for America

In today's rapidly evolving political landscape, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences of a terminally corrupt and authoritarian federal government. Such a government could erode the very foundations of American democracy, leading to a loss of individual freedoms, pervasive injustice, and widespread societal unrest. The new political satire book, No Common Sense: Donald J. Trump and the Big Bad Government by Lucy Furr, provides a thought-provoking and humorous exploration of these themes, offering a modern perspective on the dangers of unchecked governmental power.

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Director Shalanda Baker Leaves a Legacy of Justice and Equality for All and Opens the Door for Those Who Follow

Since the inaugural day of the Biden-Harris Administration, my mission has been clear: to revolutionize the energy system, ensuring it benefits all Americans. Over the past three and a half years, I have had the honor of expanding and transforming a once-obscure office into a beacon of hope and progress—the Office of Energy Justice and Equity. As its Director, and as the Secretarial Advisor on Equity, I have dedicated myself to highlighting energy injustices and championing a vision for a just transition to clean energy. My journey began not only as a scholar and policy enthusiast with a deep commitment to energy justice but also as someone who has personally experienced the legacy of energy and environmental injustice across generations. This dual perspective has driven my work and passion in this role.

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Gary Guidry: Pioneering Excellence in Global Music Promotions

As the CEO of the Black Promoters Collective (BPC), Gary Guidry stands at the forefront of a transformative movement in the music industry. With a career spanning 26 years, beginning with street promotions in college, Guidry has cultivated a legacy of innovation and community engagement.

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KTSU Welcomes Legendary Broadcaster Uncle Funky Larry Jones

KTSU 90.9 FM, known for its rich legacy in community-focused broadcasting, proudly announces the addition of the legendary Lawrence “Funky Larry” Jones, affectionately known as “Uncle Funky,” to its esteemed lineup. With a remarkable broadcasting career spanning over five decades, including more than 30 years in Houston, Uncle Funky brings his iconic voice, extensive experience, and profound community connections to KTSU.

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Celebrating 10 Years of Comcast NBCUniversal’s Voices of the Civil Rights Movement

From August 2023 through August 2024, Comcast NBCUniversal is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking multimedia initiative, Voices of the Civil Rights Movement. This platform honors the monumental Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s by chronicling the lives and experiences of over 200 leaders, activists, innovators, and trailblazers whose courage and determination fundamentally altered the course of American history.

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Monique Franklin Appointed Interim Director for Fort Bend County Library System

The Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has officially announced the appointment of Monique Franklin as the Interim Director of the Fort Bend County Library System. Franklin's extensive experience and unwavering dedication to library services position her as a prime candidate to lead the library system during this transitional period.

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Doja Cat Shines in the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Festival Presented by Capital One Lineup in Las Vegas

Music enthusiasts, get ready! The 2024 iHeartRadio Music Festival is set to dazzle fans with an incredible lineup featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. Presented by Capital One, this two-day music extravaganza will take place on September 20 and 21 at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

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Invitation: Join Judson Robinson, III and Houston Area Urban League for the Advancing Equity Luncheon

The Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) cordially invites you to our Advancing Equity Luncheon on Fri- day, June 21, 2024. This prestigious event celebrates over five decades of HAUL’s un- wavering commitment to fostering a diverse, well-educated workforce and advocating for equity in Houston.

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Union Pacific's Soil Sampling in Houston’s Fifth Ward: A Critical Examination

Union Pacific, in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the City of Houston, and Harris County, has embarked on a comprehensive soil sampling initiative in Houston’s Fifth Ward. While this extensive testing aims to demonstrate Union Pacific's commitment to community health and environmental responsibility, a critical review raises questions about the true impact and transparency of these efforts.

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Donald Trump Built a National Debt So Big (Even Before the Pandemic) That It’ll Weigh Down the Economy for Years

The “King of Debt” promised to reduce the national debt — then his tax cuts made it surge. Add in the pandemic, and he oversaw the third-biggest deficit increase of any president.

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MENTAL HEALTH: Unveiling Trauma-Informed HR: Transforming Workplace Wellness with Tiffany Mensah

Tiffany Mensah, a Certified Trauma Support Specialist and Executive Director of D.O.V.E.S. Network®, recently delivered a transformative webcast at HR.com’s Future of Employee Well-being Virtual Event. Her session, titled "Trauma-Informed HR: The Key to Unlocking Your Team’s Full Potential," which took place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, and provided attendees with invaluable strategies to enhance workplace wellness. This virtual event catered to HR professionals, organizational development experts, and employee wellness advocates, and offered the chance to earn HRCI/SHRM credit validation.

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Join Us for the Houston Area Urban League's Advancing Equity Luncheon Featuring Marian Cabanillas

The Houston Area Urban League is thrilled to announce that Marian Cabanillas, President of UnitedHealthcare Community & State’s South Texas Health Plan, will be a distinguished panelist at our upcoming Advancing Equity Luncheon on Friday, June 21, 2024.

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Join Us at the Houston Area Urban League's Advancing Equity Luncheon Featuring Mario K. Castillo!

We are honored to feature Mario K. Castillo, J.D., as a distinguished panelist at the upcoming Advancing Equity Luncheon on Friday, June 21, 2024. Mario serves as the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel at Lone Star College, where his leadership and expertise have significantly shaped the institution's growth and success.

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Empowering Houston: Join Dr. Rudy Rasmus at the 2024 Advancing Equity Luncheon

The Houston Area Urban League is thrilled to announce Dr. Rudy Rasmus as a distinguished panelist for our upcoming Advancing Equity Luncheon on Friday, June 21, 2024. This significant event will be a gathering of influential leaders and advocates dedicated to fostering equity and inclusion in our community.

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Join Us for the Houston Area Urban League Advancing Equity Luncheon! Featuring LaTanya Flix: A Trailblazer in Inclusive Leadership and Systemic Change

We are thrilled to announce that LaTanya Flix will be a distinguished panelist at the Houston Area Urban League's Advancing Equity Luncheon on Friday, June 21, 2024. LaTanya Flix is a pioneering figure in the realm of inclusive leadership and systemic change, known for her compelling presentations, influential keynote speeches, and dynamic facilitation skills.

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Celebrate Leadership and Community Impact at the Houston Area Urban League’s Advancing Equity Luncheon

Join us on Friday, June 21, 2024, for the Houston Area Urban League’s Advancing Equity Luncheon, a pivotal event dedicated to fostering equity and community empowerment in Houston.

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Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose: A Visionary Leader in Real Estate and Community Development

Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose will be a panelist at the upcoming Advancing Equity Luncheon hosted by the Houston Area Urban League.

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Houston Grand Opera Announces Unique Opportunity for Local Street Artists: A Chance to Shine on Stage at the Wortham Theater Center

Houston Grand Opera (HGO) is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for local street artists to feature their work on the illustrious stage of the Wortham Theater Center’s Brown Theater. This initiative invites Houston area ‘street artists’ to submit their artwork for a chance to create a large-scale piece for HGO’s upcoming production of Verdi’s Il Trovatore, set to premiere on October 18, 2024. The selected artist will receive a $3,000 honorarium for their contribution. Interested artists can apply at HGO.org/StreetArt.

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Looking to Thrive in Life? Register for FLOURISH Conference 2024!

Join Pastor Byron C. Stevenson, First Lady Sonya Stevenson and The Fort Bend Church Family at the FLOURISH Conference 2024, a transformative gathering focused on Faith, Family, and Finances, from July 31 to August 2, 2024. This groundbreaking conference is designed to equip attendees with tools to thrive in their personal, professional, and church lives.

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Boosting Homeownership: NAREB's Down Payment Assistance Programs for Black Consumers

For many Black consumers and first-time homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a daunting challenge. While many families and individuals can manage monthly mortgage payments, the upfront resources for a down payment are often lacking. Fortunately, crucial programs are available to assist homebuyers with down payments, making homeownership more accessible.

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Rodney Ellis and Harris County Commissioners Push for $15 Minimum Wage for County Employees and Contractors

In a landmark decision today, Rodney Ellis and the Harris County Commissioners Court approved a proposal to raise the minimum wage for all county employees and contractors to $15 an hour. This initiative, spearheaded by Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, marks a significant step towards ensuring fair compensation for all county workers.

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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.

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Donald Trump Found Guilty of All Charges in Historic Hush Money Trial

In a landmark decision, a Manhattan jury found Donald Trump guilty of 34 charges of falsifying business records on Thursday. This unprecedented verdict marks the first time in American history that a former president has been convicted of a felony.

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Unleash the Power of Storytelling at the Marketing for the Culture Summit

The African American Marketing Association (AAMA) is thrilled to announce the 3rd annual Marketing for the Culture Summit (MFTC), taking place on June 5-7, 2024, in Houston, TX. This vibrant event promises to bring together marketing professionals and creative entrepreneurs for an immersive experience of inspiration, education, and connection.

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Houston Fire Department Recommends Safety Tips for Summer Fun and Weekend Family Activities

As we honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country, the Houston Fire Department (HFD) is encouraging all residents to ensure a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend by following some essential safety guidelines.

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Justice for Alexander McClay Williams: A Family’s Quest to Clear His Name

In 1931, 16-year-old Alexander McClay Williams became the youngest person executed in Pennsylvania's history. Convicted of murdering Vida Robare, a matron at the Glen Mills School, a youth detention facility near Philadelphia, his execution by electric chair left his family in anguish and shame. For 85 years, his sister, Susie Williams Carter, believed he was guilty. However, new evidence has surfaced, prompting Carter and her family to seek justice for Alexander and clear his name.

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Greater Houston Disaster Alliance Unveils Relief Fund for Severe Weather and Derecho Victims with Comcast and Centerpoint’s Lead Support

In a significant move to support families affected by recent severe weather, the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance has launched the Severe Weather and Derecho Relief Fund. This initiative, a collaborative effort by the Greater Houston Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston, aims to aid those impacted by devastating storms, derecho winds, tornadoes, and flooding that struck the region between April 26 and May 17, 2024.