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Jo-Carolyn Goode

Stories by Jo-Carolyn

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In a powerful testament to duty, honor, and resilience, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (MA2) Kelton Wood proudly reenlisted into the United States Navy on July 8, 2025, reaffirming his unwavering commitment

On Friday, July 11, 2025, Congressman Al Green will host a press conference in response to President Donald Trump’s mandate requiring Governor Greg Abbott to call for a special session aimed at targeting Democratic Texas congressional members through mid-decade redistricting.

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Hometown Hero Recommits to Service: MA2 Kelton Wood Reenlists at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay in Greece

In a powerful testament to duty, honor, and resilience, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (MA2) Kelton Wood proudly reenlisted into the United States Navy on July 8, 2025, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to national and global security. The reenlistment ceremony took place at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, located on the storied island of Crete in Greece—a vital hub for U.S. and Allied operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

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Celebrate 713 Day the Sweet Voodoo Way: $7.13 Off Dozens at Houston’s Favorite Doughnut Destination

This Sunday, July 13, the city of Houston gets a delicious dose of hometown pride as Voodoo Doughnut rolls out an irresistible offer in celebration of 713 Day — the city’s unofficial holiday that pays homage to Houston’s original area code and vibrant culture.

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Empowering the Future: NAREB Presents Los Angeles Community Wealth Building Day on Saturday, July 26

In a continued mission to close the racial wealth gap and advance Black homeownership, the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) is bringing its transformative Community Wealth Building Day to Los Angeles on Saturday, July 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Hosted in partnership with Bishop Craig Worsham and the People’s Independent Church of God in Christ, the event will take place at 5856 West Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90043, and is free and open to the public.

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Celebrate 713 Day in Style: Where to Brunch, Sip, and Ride a Bull in Houston on July 13, 2025

Houston’s unofficial holiday, 713 Day, returns this Sunday, July 13, and the Bayou City is pulling out all the stops to honor the culture, cuisine, and community that define H-Town. Named for Houston’s iconic 713 area code, this annual celebration unites the city’s pride through an irresistible lineup of food and drink specials, live entertainment, and uniquely Houston experiences — from brunching in style to bull-riding for a $713 cash prize.

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Unveiled: Holocaust Museum Houston Opens Powerful Exhibition of Rare Artifacts, Local History, and Global Memory

This summer, Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH) invites the public into a profound journey through history with the debut of Unveiled: From the Vault, a powerful and poignant exhibition opening Friday, July 25, 2025, and running through Sunday, January 4, 2026, in the Museum’s Josef and Edith Mincberg Gallery.

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ESSENCE GU® and Kensington Grey Ignite a New Era of Black Creator Culture at the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture®

At the intersection of creativity, culture, and community, a groundbreaking partnership emerged during this year’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola®—the nation’s largest celebration of global Black excellence. ESSENCE Girls United® (ESSENCE GU®) and Kensington Grey, the premier talent agency representing Black digital storytellers, joined forces to elevate the future of creator culture in a way that was bold, unapologetic, and revolutionary.

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Megan Thee Stallion’s Pete & Thomas Foundation to Honor Community Leaders at Inaugural Gala

Honorees -Southern Black Girls Founder LaTosha Brown and 13-Year-Old Mental Health Advocate Mila Henry

Grammy Award-winning artist and Houston’s own Megan Thee Stallion is once again using her platform to spotlight trailblazing changemakers. Her nonprofit, the Pete & Thomas Foundation, is gearing up to host its inaugural black-tie gala on July 16, 2025, at the iconic Gotham Hall in New York City. The star-studded affair, hosted by actress Taraji P. Henson, will feature performances by Muni Long and DJ sets by DJ D-Nice, benefiting transformative initiatives in education, housing, and health and wellness for underserved communities.

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From Houston to the Depths of Duty: Fire Control Technician Rosa Figueroa Embodies Service, Strength, and Pride aboard the USS Scranton

From the hallways of Porter High School to the stealthy corridors of a U.S. Navy fast-attack submarine, Houston native Petty Officer 1st Class Rosa Figueroa has charted a bold and inspiring path in service to her country. As the United States Navy celebrates its historic 250th birthday this year, Figueroa stands as a shining example of courage, commitment, and community pride—defending America's interests from beneath the sea aboard the USS Scranton.

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Apple TV+ Drops Trailer for Final Season of Beloved Comedy Series “Acapulco” — Premieres July 23

Apple TV+ is turning up the heat this summer with the official trailer release for the highly anticipated fourth and final season of its critically acclaimed bilingual comedy, Acapulco. Set to premiere globally on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the season kicks off with a double-episode debut, followed by weekly episodes every Wednesday through September 17.

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Airbnb.org Steps Up to Provide Free Emergency Housing for Central Texas Flood Victims and First Responders

In the wake of the devastating floods sweeping through Central Texas, Airbnb.org—the nonprofit arm of Airbnb—has launched a critical initiative to offer free emergency housing for those most affected. This compassionate effort includes displaced families, individuals who’ve lost everything, and brave first responders working tirelessly on the frontlines.

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Commissioner Sid Miller Mobilizes TDA Relief Efforts for Flood-Stricken Texans

As deadly floods ravage communities across Central Texas, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is stepping up in a big way. Over the weekend, Miller directed the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) to activate emergency resources to support farmers, ranchers, and rural families devastated by this historic natural disaster.

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Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) Collection and Facility Schedule for 4th of July Holiday

In observance of the City of Houston’s approved holiday schedule, there will be no curbside collection services, and all Solid Waste Management (SWMD) facilities will be closed.

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Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Set to Ignite the Future of EV Performance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed! ⚡🚗

Get ready, Houston! The future of high-performance electric vehicles is almost here — and it's coming in fast. Hyundai is charging into the spotlight with the world premiere of the IONIQ 6 N at the iconic Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 10, 2025, and all eyes are on this electrifying new chapter in EV innovation.

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Rep. Al Green Requests Unanimous Consent to Block Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP (Washington, D.C.)

On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, Congressman Al Green delivered remarks on the House floor requesting unanimous consent to block cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

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Kuhlman Estate Unveils Breathtaking Renovation in Texas Hill Country!

Just in time for summer sipping season, the beloved Kuhlman Estate has officially debuted its stunning renovation—elevating wine tasting experiences along the iconic Wine Road 290 between Fredericksburg and Johnson City. Nestled among rolling vineyards and lush gardens, this boutique gem is blending elegance, sustainability, and Texas charm like never before. 🌿🍇

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Christian Menefee’s Congressional Campaign Surges Past $970K—Fueled by the People!

The momentum is real and the message is resonating! Since launching his campaign for Texas' 18th Congressional District on March 17, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee has raised an incredible $970,000+—powered by a grassroots army of 12,568 individual donors! 🌱💪🏽

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GM Shifts into High Gear with Record-Breaking Sales!

General Motors (GM) is leading the charge in the U.S. auto industry—and the numbers don’t lie. With Q2 sales up 7% and a staggering 12% surge in the first half of 2025, GM is officially the #1 automotive leader in total and retail sales across the country! 📈🔥

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🔥 Justice Prevails in Baytown! 🔥

In a monumental win for environmental justice and community health, the United States Supreme Court has officially rejected ExxonMobil’s appeal, letting stand a record-breaking $14.25 million judgment for years of illegal air pollution at its Baytown refinery and chemical complex. This marks the largest civil penalty ever awarded in a Clean Air Act citizen suit—and it’s a game-changer.

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🚨 Big News from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation! 🚨

After decades of groundbreaking leadership and community empowerment at 1720 Massachusetts Ave., NW, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is officially on the move—and stepping boldly into a new era! 🏛️➡️✨

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🚗💥 Hyundai Shatters Records in 2025 With Best-Ever First Half Sales and Industry-Leading Wins! 🇺🇸⚡️

Houston Style Magazine is celebrating Hyundai Motor America’s unprecedented momentum as the auto giant wraps up the strongest first half in its history, with 439,280 units sold — a 10% jump compared to the first half of 2024! 🔥

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📣 A Historic First for TDCJ: Chaplain Billy Holmes Appointed as First-Ever Staff Chaplain! 🙌🏽💼🙏🏾

In a landmark move to elevate staff wellness and spiritual support, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) has officially named Chaplain Billy Holmes as its first-ever Staff Chaplain, effective July 1, 2025. This trailblazing role is part of TDCJ’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at enhancing employee wellness through the eight dimensions of well-being outlined by SAMHSA — with spiritual health now front and center.

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METRO Enhances Eastex Corridor Commute with New Evening HOV-Only Hours on I-69 North

In a strategic move aimed at improving Houston’s afternoon traffic flow, METRO is implementing new evening HOV ONLY hours on the I-69 North (Eastex) HOV/HOT lane starting Monday, July 7. This initiative is part of the agency’s broader commitment to streamline regional mobility and provide a safer, more reliable travel experience for high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) users.

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The Ensemble Theatre Concludes 48th Season with Electrifying “The Tap Dance Kid” Musical Spectacular

The Ensemble Theatre is ending its remarkable 48th Artistic Season on a powerful, rhythmic note with the highly anticipated opening of The Tap Dance Kid, a Tony Award-winning musical that opens tomorrow. Bursting with energy, heart, and soul, the production brings a timeless story of self-expression, family dynamics, and the healing power of the arts to Houston’s vibrant theater scene.

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BJ’s Restaurants Turn Up the Heat with a S’mores-Inspired Pizookie®, Summer Brews & All-American Flavors

Summer is officially in session—and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is serving up the ultimate way to toast the season. Starting June 26, foodies and beer lovers alike can indulge in the return of the fan-favorite Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie®, alongside an exciting new wave of seasonal brews and a smash burger so good, it’s destined to become your go-to summer bite.

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Texas Southern University Launches Inaugural ‘Tiger Chat’ to Spotlight Student Voices and Inspire Community Engagement

Texas Southern University (TSU) proudly ushered in a new era of dialogue and leadership with the launch of its Tiger Chat: Conversations That Inspire series. Held on Tuesday, June 24, in the elegant main hall of the TSU University Museum, the event not only commemorated the first anniversary of President J.W. Crawford III’s historic appointment but also placed student leadership front and center.

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NASA Trailblazer Katherine Johnson Soars Among Aviation Legends in Commemorative “250 Years of Flight” Magazine

The extraordinary life and legacy of NASA icon Katherine Johnson continues to rise to new heights. Now honored among the world’s most groundbreaking aviation heroes, Johnson is featured in the newly released “250 Years of Flight: A Breathtaking Journey from Dirigibles to Space Travel,” a special edition publication from McClatchy Lifestyle Specials. With the feature headlined “Katherine Johnson: The Woman Who Charted the Path to the Stars,” the magazine cements her rightful place beside global luminaries like Leonardo da Vinci, the Wright Brothers, Amelia Earhart, the Tuskegee Airmen, and John Glenn in the pantheon of aviation and aerospace pioneers.

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Celebrate Summer Under the Stars at Discovery Green: Where Houston Comes Alive After Dark

Summer nights in Houston just got brighter, bolder, and more exhilarating—thanks to Discovery Green, the city's 12-acre urban oasis in the heart of downtown. From dance-fueled evenings and pride-filled celebrations to splashy adventures on Kinder Lake and soul-soothing fitness sessions, Discovery Green is the ultimate destination to beat the heat and ignite your spirit. Whether you're looking for family fun, cultural connection, or self-care under the stars, here’s why Houston’s backyard belongs at the top of your summer to-do list.

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Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N Electrifies the Auto World with Five-Star Award from Autocar

In a powerful nod to innovation, performance, and the future of electrified driving, Hyundai Motor Company has once again made headlines—this time with its high-performance electric marvel, the IONIQ 5 N. The groundbreaking EV has earned the coveted Five-Star Car accolade from Autocar, one of the automotive industry's most influential voices.

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Celebrate Independence Day in Style with “Red, White & Cruise” at Hermann Park’s McGovern Lake!

This Fourth of July, ditch the crowded lawns and parking lots and celebrate America’s birthday with a truly unforgettable experience: Red, White & Cruise at Hermann Park! 🚣‍♀️🎆

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Here We Grow Again: The Plant Project Blooms Anew at M-K-T Heights in Houston

Get ready to grow, Houston! The Plant Project — Texas’ first Black woman-owned plant shop — is proudly returning to the city in full bloom with a brand-new location at M-K-T Heights (600 N. Shepherd Drive, Suite 117). The soft reopening is set for Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, promising an afternoon of beauty, botanicals, and community spirit.

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Houston’s Own Isabella Wakeham Shines on Season 17 of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior

Houston is beaming with pride as American Ninja Warrior Season 17 swings back into action — and Cypress native Isabella Wakeham is taking the spotlight by storm. In an electrifying performance during Monday night’s episode, Wakeham was the only woman to complete the grueling obstacle course, securing her place in the highly anticipated Semi-Finals. Representing not just her hometown, but an entire generation of bold, determined female athletes, Wakeham is proving that Houston's strength runs deep.

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Three Groundbreaking Bills Signed into Texas Law to Protect Vulnerable Communities and Strengthen CPS Transparency

In a landmark moment for Texas legislation, three new bills—House Bill 107 (HB 107), Senate Bill 1137 (SB 1137), and Senate Bill 1141 (SB 1141)—have officially been signed into law. These common-sense measures aim to save lives, protect vulnerable populations from exploitation, and improve transparency for families navigating the Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) system.

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Juneteenth Celebration at the African American Civil War Memorial

Dr. Frank Smith, founder and executive director of the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, stands next to the U Street Memorial in Washington, DC where the Juneteenth celebration will take place under a big tent starting at 11 am on June 19th.

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Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee Takes Stand Against NIH Funding Cuts, Defending Houston's Medical Future

In a bold defense of public health and medical innovation, Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee has joined a coalition of 45 cities, counties, and local government leaders nationwide in filing a powerful amicus brief opposing abrupt funding cuts by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These cuts, if upheld, could devastate critical medical research programs, jeopardize thousands of jobs, and weaken the nation’s healthcare infrastructure—especially in regions like Harris County, home to the globally recognized Texas Medical Center (TMC).

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Houston Native Makes Waves Beneath the Surface as U.S. Navy Submariner

Beneath the ocean’s surface, where silence is power and precision is everything, a proud Houston native is serving as a guardian of America’s national security. Petty Officer 3rd Class Raymund Nelson, a 2023 graduate of West Side High School, is charting an extraordinary course with the United States Navy aboard the USS Tennessee, homeported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia.

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Turning Dreams into Diplomas: Harris County Adult Learners Celebrate Graduation Milestone

This weekend, more than 150 inspiring individuals from Harris County will proudly don caps and gowns as they cross the stage to receive their high school equivalency diplomas (HSE), proving that it's never too late to rewrite your story. The Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) will host its annual Adult Education Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, June 21, 2025, honoring adult learners who completed their HSE requirements during the 2024–2025 academic year.

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League City’s Own Serves as Silent Sentinel Beneath the Waves

From the quiet suburbs of League City, Texas, to the strategic depths of the Atlantic Ocean, Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeremy Carter is making waves in the U.S. Navy’s elite submarine force. Currently serving aboard the USS West Virginia, homeported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Carter is part of a select group entrusted with one of the most complex and consequential missions in modern defense: protecting America from beneath the sea.

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Fielding’s River Oaks Delivers Luxe Lunches with 25-Cent Martinis—A New Friday Favorite in Houston

Fielding’s River Oaks, one of Houston’s premier destinations for prime steaks, craft cocktails, and fine wine, is transforming Fridays into a can’t-miss culinary celebration. With the launch of its new Friday lunch series, guests can now enjoy a sophisticated midday menu paired with indulgent 25-cent martinis—yes, you read that right—just twenty-five cents each.

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160 years after Juneteenth 1865 - Racism, misogyny, harmful public policy, and destruction of lives

By May 8, 2025, 106,000 Black women lost their jobs, including me,” a somber and visibly shaken @sunshineharpy shared on her social media page. “And those of us that’s been out here trying to find work again, it’s basically just been non-existent, and I’m starting to feel like it’s by design. Because there are over 100,00 women (black women like me) who have the same story,” she claimed in a 10-minute-long emotional video.

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Fort Bend County Libraries Host Open Auditions for “Shakespeare-by-the-Book” Featuring The Merchant of Venice

Aspiring actors and Shakespeare enthusiasts across the Greater Houston area are invited to step into the spotlight as Fort Bend County Libraries teams up with The Live Oak Playhouse for an exciting theatrical opportunity this summer. Open auditions for the beloved Shakespearean drama The Merchant of Venice will take place on Saturday and Sunday, July 12–13, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Bohachevsky Gallery inside the George Memorial Library, located at 1001 Golfview Drive in Richmond, Texas.

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Houston’s Own Raymund Nelson Makes Waves in the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force

From the vibrant heart of Houston to the deep blue sea, Petty Officer 3rd Class Raymund Nelson is making his mark as a proud member of the elite U.S. Navy Submarine Force. A 2023 graduate of West Side High School, Nelson now serves as a missile technician aboard the USS Tennessee, stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia — homeport of the Navy’s East Coast ballistic- and guided-missile submarines.

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2026 Corvette ZR1X: Chevrolet Unleashes the Most Advanced American Hypercar Ever

Chevrolet has redefined the boundaries of performance and innovation with the introduction of the 2026 Corvette ZR1X—a 1,250-horsepower, all-wheel drive, electrified supercar that boldly claims its title as the most powerful and technologically advanced Corvette in history. Assembled with pride at the iconic Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky, the ZR1X isn’t just a car—it’s a revolution on wheels and a proud symbol of American engineering.

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Hyundai Accelerates American Innovation: Five Models Rank Among 2025’s Most American-Made Vehicles

Hyundai is hitting the gas on American innovation and manufacturing excellence in 2025. The global auto giant has proudly secured five spots on Cars.com’s prestigious 2025 American-Made Index—a powerful testament to its deep-rooted commitment to U.S. jobs, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The vehicles recognized include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Santa Fe Hybrid, IONIQ 5, Tucson, and the adventure-ready Santa Cruz

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Turkish Airlines Named Best Airline in Europe for 10th Time

Turkish Airlines, the global carrier renowned for flying to more countries than any other airline, has once again soared above the competition—claiming the title of Best Airline in Europe for the 10th time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Widely regarded as the Oscars of the Aviation Industry, this year’s prestigious ceremony was held at the iconic Air and Space Museum in Paris on June 17, 2025.

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Harris County Leads Legal Fight as Judge Blocks Attorney General Ken Paxton’s Controversial Oversight Rule

In a significant victory for local governance and judicial independence, a Travis County judge has temporarily blocked a controversial new rule introduced by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which would have mandated sweeping oversight of prosecutors in Texas' most populous counties. The injunction halts enforcement of the rule while legal challenges—spearheaded by Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee—move forward in court.

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Gemini Ink and H.E. Butt Foundation Empower San Antonio Teens Through Transformative Storytelling Workshop Inspired by the 1968 Edgewood Walkouts

In a powerful fusion of history, creativity, and activism, Gemini Ink, in collaboration with the H.E. Butt Foundation, is proud to present “Walk Out and Speak Up”—a free youth storytelling workshop designed to uplift and amplify the next generation of changemakers. Set against the backdrop of San Antonio’s rich civil rights legacy, this immersive experience runs from June 23 to June 26, 2025, offering teenagers aged 13 to 19 a chance to explore their voice and power through the written and spoken word.

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Shake, Stir & Celebrate: HiFi at The Finn Mixes Up Excitement for National Martini Day and More in Downtown Houston

This summer, Downtown Houston’s nightlife scene is raising the bar—literally and figuratively—with a spirited lineup of events at HiFi at The Finn, the city’s new vinyl-inspired cocktail destination. As the calendar flips to National Martini Day on June 19, HiFi invites cocktail lovers to mix, sip, and celebrate with a Mini Martini Mixology Class that promises both flavor and flair.

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Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy Applauds “No Kings” Movement: A Defining Moment in Modern American Democracy

In a powerful and patriotic statement, Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy hailed this past weekend’s nationwide “No Kings” rallies as a defining chapter in America’s ongoing commitment to democracy, civil liberties, and the right to protest.

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UHD Hosts Powerful Screening of KHOU 11's Juneteenth Documentary Honoring Black Family Legacy and Freedom

In an inspiring tribute to the resilience, heritage, and triumph of African American families, the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) will proudly host a special screening of KHOU 11’s groundbreaking Juneteenth documentary, Juneteenth: 1865 – 2005 | Kinfolk and Family, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the TDECU Tour Room of the Welcome Center at 201 Girard Street.