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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).
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.
From Pews to Power: Houston-Born Tech Startup ChurchSpace Relocates to Detroit After $1.2M Raise,
Redefining Sacred Spaces with Faith, Innovation, and Economic Justice
In a transformative leap for both faith-based innovation and Black tech leadership, ChurchSpace, the Houston-born startup often dubbed the "Airbnb for churches," has announced the relocation of its headquarters to Detroit following a $1.2 million funding raise. Co-founded by Krystal Jeanne “Day” Edwards and Emmanuel Brown, ChurchSpace is on a mission to help churches unlock the economic power of their underutilized buildings—turning empty pews and fellowship halls into hubs of opportunity.
Fort Bend County Residents Help Shape Future Through Participatory Budgeting: A Grassroots Approach to Fiscal Equity
In a bold step toward inclusive governance and fiscal transparency, Fort Bend County recently concluded its 2nd Annual Participatory Budget Town Hall Series, hosted by Precinct 4 County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy. The two dynamic sessions, held on April 24 and May 3, 2025, invited local residents to take a direct role in shaping the county’s financial future, offering a hands-on opportunity to influence the 2026 fiscal year budget.
NAREB Sets Record with 106 Wealth-Building Events Nationwide
Empowering Black Families to Build Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
In a powerful and history-making move, the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) hosted a record-breaking 106 Community Wealth-Building Day events across the country on April 12, 2025, reaffirming its unwavering mission to narrow the racial wealth gap by promoting Black homeownership and economic empowerment.
Mayor Whitmire and HPOU Unveil Historic “Generational Contract” to Strengthen Public Safety and Empower Houston Police
In a bold move to elevate public safety and honor the dedicated service of Houston’s law enforcement officers, Mayor John Whitmire, joined by Police Chief J. Noe Diaz and Houston Police Officers' Union (HPOU) President Doug Griffith, has announced a landmark five-year agreement that promises to transform the future of policing in Houston.
Trailblazing PVAMU Professor Earns Prestigious NIH Grant for Groundbreaking Mental Health Research
As the nation turns its attention to Mental Health Awareness Month, one Prairie View A&M University professor is shining a light on the intersection of psychology, technology, and social justice. Dr. Anne Lippert, an assistant professor of psychology at the Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts and Sciences, has been awarded a National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant exceeding $90,000 to advance her pioneering research in mental health and education.
Houston Unites for Safety: Largest Disaster Readiness & Resilience Expo to Empower Residents Ahead of 2025 Hurricane Season
As Houston faces another unpredictable hurricane season, city leaders and community partners are coming together to launch one of the most comprehensive preparedness initiatives in the region. The Disaster Readiness and Resilience Clinic & Expo, scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the George R. Brown Convention Center (Hall A), promises to be Houston’s largest and most inclusive disaster readiness event to date.
Duncan Aldred Appointed President of GM North America, Signaling a Bold New Era of Innovation and Customer Focus
In a decisive move that underscores its commitment to customer-centric innovation and sustainable growth, General Motors (GM) has appointed industry veteran Duncan Aldred as Senior Vice President and President of North America. Effective immediately, Aldred will oversee GM’s largest and most dynamic regional market, reporting directly to Rory Harvey, GM Executive Vice President and President of Global Markets.
Texas Triumphs on the Global Stage as Meow Wolf Grapevine and Houston Earn Top Honors at IAAPA 2025
Everything is bigger—and more imaginative—in Texas. This week, the Lone Star State dazzled on the international stage as Meow Wolf Grapevine and Meow Wolf Houston brought home major wins from IAAPA Honors 2025, the world’s most prestigious celebration of creativity in themed attractions and immersive entertainment.
Congressman Al Green Issues Response to President Trump’s Statement on Truth Social
On Friday, May 2, 2025, I published this communique in response to media inquiries that I have received concerning a statement made by President Trump. Please review the statement from President Trump below following my response:
Commissioner Ellis Applauds Dismissal of Charges Against Former Health Director Barbie Robinson, Cites Need for Justice Reform
In a powerful stand for justice and accountability, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis has spoken out following the dismissal of all felony charges against former Harris County Public Health Director Barbie Robinson. The decision by newly elected District Attorney Sean Teare to drop the indictments shines a spotlight on what Ellis calls a disturbing misuse of prosecutorial power under former DA Kim Ogg’s administration.
ARTECHOUSE Houston Unleashes “Rolling Stone Presents: AMPLIFIED” – A Groundbreaking Immersive Rock ‘n’ Roll Experience Narrated by Kevin Bacon
Houston, get ready to plug into the raw power of rock music like never before. Beginning May 9, ARTECHOUSE Houston will unveil “Rolling Stone Presents: AMPLIFIED”—a mind-blowing immersive journey into the legacy of rock ‘n’ roll, narrated by the iconic Kevin Bacon. Nestled in the heart of the Heights, ARTECHOUSE invites you to witness a revolutionary 50-minute spectacle that fuses legendary soundtracks, boundary-breaking photography, and 18K floor-to-ceiling visuals—all backed by Rolling Stone’s legendary music archives.
US job growth hasn’t been this slow since Covid. Trump’s policies could chill it further
It all comes down to the job market. President Donald Trump’s drastic policy moves, and the twists and turns that have come alongside them, have made economic forecasting a squirrely endeavor.
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts Announces First-Ever Open Call for Applications
Applications Now Open Through June 1, 2025 to Apply for the Houston is Inspired Residency
Applicants must be a Houston-based performing artist or organization and demonstrate readiness to present a 90–120-minute performance in Zilkha Hall.
Rep. Green Proposes Amendment to Protect HUD Funds, Boost Disaster Aid
On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Congressman Al Green, Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, shared remarks in a Financial Services Hearing entitled, “Markup of Various Measures."
🚢 Houston to Make History as First Texas City to Host U.S. Navy Fleet Week in November 2025
In a momentous announcement underscoring Houston’s growing national prominence, Mayor John Whitmire and U.S. Navy Admiral Daryl Caudle, Commander of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command, have revealed that Fleet Week Houston will take place November 5–12, 2025—marking the first time ever that a Texas city will host this prestigious U.S. Navy tradition.
Preservation Houston Names Jennifer Kapral as Executive Director—A New Era of Inclusive Leadership in Historic Preservation
In a bold and visionary step forward, Preservation Houston has appointed Jennifer Kapral as its new Executive Director, ushering in a dynamic chapter for the city’s premier historic preservation nonprofit. With over two decades of leadership in education, public policy, and community engagement, Kapral brings a profound commitment to storytelling, heritage, and Houston’s diverse cultural fabric.
Rep. Green Condemns CFPB Dismantling, Warns Trump Is Turning Democracy Toward Plutocracy in 100 Days
On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Congressman Al Green, Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, shared remarks in a Financial Services Hearing entitled, “Regulatory Overreach: The Price Tag on American Prosperity."
🎉 East End Street Fest 2025: A Spectacular Cinco de Mayo Celebration of Culture, Community & Cumbia
Get ready, Houston! The heartbeat of the city’s cultural soul returns stronger than ever as the East End Street Fest electrifies Cinco de Mayo weekend with a vibrant fusion of music, food, art, and unforgettable performances. This free, family-friendly celebration is set to light up Navigation Boulevard’s iconic Esplanade on Saturday, May 3, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM—and you don’t want to miss it.
Bill Hader describes ‘shock’ of LA wildfires and the sweet way girlfriend Ali Wong helped him in the aftermath
Bill Hader was in Malibu filming a Volkswagen commercial with his former “SNL” co-stars Kristen Wiig and Fred Armisen when a devastating wildfire began ripping through the Pacific Palisades, the affluent West Los Angeles neighborhood perched atop a peak overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Holocaust Museum Houston Honors Survivors with Free Admission Days This May
This May, Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH) invites the community to experience powerful lessons of resilience and remembrance through a series of free admission days honoring two extraordinary Holocaust survivors: Walter Kase and Stefi Altman.
YMCA of Greater Houston Champions Wellness with Healthy Kids Day Celebration
Over the weekend, the YMCA of Greater Houston brought families together for a vibrant and inspiring Healthy Kids Day event across 19 centers throughout the city. This free community event energized children and parents alike with fun-filled activities focused on keeping minds and bodies active during the summer months — and all year long!
The Ensemble Theatre Serves Up a Slice of Life with “Coconut Cake” — A Delicious Rolling World Premiere You Don’t Want to Miss!
This spring, The Ensemble Theatre invites audiences to feast on more than just a slice of drama — they’re serving up Melda Beaty’s sizzling and soulful play, "Coconut Cake," as part of an exciting rolling world premiere! Opening Friday, May 9, 2025, and running through Sunday, June 1, 2025, this rich and poignant production is set to stir emotions and ignite conversations across Houston.
Baltimore man takes plea deal after allegedly framing a former principal with an AI-generated rant
A Baltimore man took a plea deal and was sentenced to four months in prison Monday after being accused of using AI to impersonate a former high school principal.
Thousands of LA County workers set to strike over alleged unfair labor practices
More than 55,000 Los Angeles County workers are expected to go on strike Monday night, which could disrupt some services for residents.
Texas Southern University and Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Unite for Zikaron BaSalon: A Night of Remembrance, Reflection, and Renewed Bonds
In a heartfelt evening of remembrance and dialogue, Texas Southern University (TSU) and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston came together on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, to host a powerful Zikaron BaSalon event. Translating to "Memories in the Living Room" in Hebrew, Zikaron BaSalon offers an intimate and personal approach to Holocaust remembrance—bringing the stories of survivors directly to small gatherings where empathy and education thrive.
Kobe Bryant’s debut jersey sells for $7 million at auction, a record price for memorabilia tied to the NBA legend
The jersey Kobe Bryant wore in his NBA debut sold for $7 million in auction on Thursday. Per auction house Sotheby’s, the sale sets a record for any memorabilia tied to the Los Angeles Lakers legend, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020 along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others.
Honoring History & Heroism: The 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon at the Lone Star Flight Museum
This Saturday, history and heroism will take center stage at the Lone Star Flight Museum as Houstonians gather to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon with a moving firsthand account from Nick Tran, a decorated U.S. military veteran and proud Vietnamese-American.
Houston Leads with Integrity: Citywide Efficiency Study Ushers in a New Era of Transparent and Accountable Governance
In a bold move to reshape how local government serves its people, the City of Houston has completed a groundbreaking citywide efficiency study, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility. Spearheaded in late 2024, the initiative—backed by the global consulting powerhouse Ernst & Young LLP (EY)—marks a significant step toward building a more responsive and resourceful municipal government for the city’s dynamic and diverse population.
MD Anderson Showcases Groundbreaking Cancer Research at AACR 2025 Annual Meeting
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is making a powerful statement at this year’s American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, presenting over 200 abstracts from April 25 through April 30. This highly anticipated annual gathering brings together the brightest minds in oncology, and MD Anderson is taking center stage with five groundbreaking plenary talks and numerous oral presentations, spotlighting the institution’s unwavering commitment to revolutionizing cancer care, prevention, and treatment.
One of Trump’s billionaire supporters has harsh words for the president about his trade war
Citadel CEO Ken Griffin, a billionaire supporter of President Donald Trump and a megadonor to Republican candidates, had some unusually harsh words for the president about his trade war: It’s hurting America’s standing in the world and eroding the nation’s brand.
Congressman Al Green Champions Justice for SNAP Theft Victims with Groundbreaking Legislation
In a bold and compassionate response to an escalating crisis, Congressman Al Green (D-TX) has introduced H.R. 2983—the SNAP SECURE Act of 2025—a legislative gamechanger aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and restoring stolen benefits to the vulnerable individuals and families who need them most.
Celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a Spectacular Lion Dance Performance at University Branch Library
This May, Fort Bend County Libraries invites the community to honor the vibrant traditions of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month with an unforgettable cultural celebration! On Saturday, May 3, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., the University Branch Library — located on the University of Houston Sugar Land campus — will come alive with the rhythm, energy, and beauty of a traditional Chinese Lion Dance.
Grammy-Winning Powerful Muni Long Announces the Songwriters Forum - A Game-Changing Workshop
In an industry often guarded by gatekeepers, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and R&B luminary Muni Long is tearing down barriers and opening doors with the launch of The Songwriters Forum — an exclusive, two-day educational and networking experience set to take place in Los Angeles, California, June 12-13, 2025.
Houston Area Students Gear Up for the 2025 All-Earth Ecobot Challenge: Exploring Innovation, Sustainability, and the Future of the Shipping Industry
This weekend, the spirit of innovation will be alive and thriving at the Leonard E. Merrell Center in Katy, Texas, as more than 300 bright young minds from across Harris County converge for the highly anticipated 2025 All-Earth Ecobot Challenge. Hosted by the Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment for Kids (CASE for Kids)—a proud division of the Harris County Department of Education—the annual STEM competition is set to inspire the next generation of engineers, environmentalists, and tech leaders.
Houston Native Alan Reyesluna Carves Out a Bright Future in the U.S. Navy's Elite Machinery Repairman Program
In the heart of the U.S. Navy's Surface Warfare Engineering School Command at Great Lakes, one Houston native is turning precision and perseverance into a powerful career. Seaman Apprentice Alan Reyesluna, a proud Houstonian, is making waves as he perfects his technical skills at the Machinery Repairman (MR) "A" School.
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