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ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival Returns for 2025: Celebrating Inclusion and Creativity
Houston is set to come alive with a celebration of art, music, and film like no other as the ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival returns from February 2-23, 2025. For nearly a month, this transformative festival will shine a spotlight on the extraordinary talents, stories, and achievements of people living with disabilities.
Houston's Theatrical Brilliance Takes Center Stage: Mildred’s Umbrella and Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Unite for “The Wanderers”
In a season brimming with artistic collaboration and bold storytelling, Mildred’s Umbrella Theater Company and the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC of Houston announce their first of two remarkable co-productions for 2025—the Houston premiere of The Wanderers by celebrated playwright Anna Ziegler. Known for its sharp wit, tender humanity, and award-winning pedigree, The Wanderers promises to captivate audiences with its nuanced exploration of love, faith, and identity.
Final Draft Partners With IHQ Network for Special Holiday Performance: A Heartwarming Evening of Music, Giving, and Traditions
Get ready to usher in the holiday season with soulful melodies and festive cheer as *Final Draft*, the nationally acclaimed R&B group famed for their viral tribute videos and powerhouse performances on *America’s Got Talent*, brings their Annual Holiday Celebration to life. Scheduled for **December 17, 2024**, in Atlanta, GA, this year’s event will be a heartfelt tribute to the late Carol O., a beloved journalist in the music industry whose legacy of community giving and holiday joy continues to shine.
BSH Home Appliances Opens Luxurious Experience Center in Houston: A New Hub for Innovation and Design
Houston just turned up the heat in the world of luxury home appliances! BSH Home Appliances Corporation, the global leader in premium appliances, has officially unveiled its stunning 14,847-square-foot Experience and Design Center (EDC) in the heart of Houston. This sleek, state-of-the-art showroom marks the company’s *eighth* North American location, giving Houstonians an exclusive, hands-on opportunity to explore cutting-edge kitchen technology.
Officials Elected to the 2025 H-GAC Board of Directors: Shaping the Future of Our Region*
The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is stepping into 2025 with a fresh team of dynamic leaders ready to address regional challenges head-on. Following spirited caucus meetings involving cities and independent school districts (I.S.D.), the H-GAC proudly announced its newly appointed delegates to the 2025 Board of Directors. These delegates will act as crucial representatives, championing the interests of cities, counties, and school districts across the 13-county region.
Houston Public Library's Grand Opening of the Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library: A New Chapter for Community Engagement
Houston, get ready to turn the page to a new chapter of community connection, creativity, and learning! The Houston Public Library (HPL) is thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of the new Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library on Saturday, December 14, 2024. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark the beginning of a day brimming with festivities, activities, and endless opportunities to rediscover the magic of libraries.
Heads up if you’re a freelancer or small business owner: The IRS may need something new from you
Heads up to anyone who is a freelancer, independent contractor, business owner, property renter or just a hobbyist who occasionally sells their creations: If you accept business-related income through a payment app or online marketplace like Venmo, CashApp, Airbnb and Etsy, come January you may start receiving 1099-K tax forms from the platforms where you do business.
Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD Foundation Partners with UH Law Center to Champion Criminal Justice Reform
In a powerful collaboration that marries star power with social impact, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s BeyGOOD Foundation has gifted $100,000 to the University of Houston (UH) Law Center. This contribution aims to elevate the Law Center's Criminal Justice Clinic, funding a full-time director and expanding services to better serve Houston’s underserved communities.
Certain foods may disrupt your body’s fight against cancer cells, study says
The food you eat may be affecting your body’s ability to fight cancer cells in the colon, according to a new study.
Randy Parker Makes History: The Visionary CEO Leading Hyundai and Genesis North America
Houston, we have a trailblazer to celebrate! Randy Parker, an industry powerhouse with a stellar track record, has been named Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, effective January 1, 2025. This historic move solidifies Parker’s influence in the automotive world while continuing his groundbreaking tenure as the first African American to lead a major OEM regional market.
Martellus Bennett’s Dear Black Boy: A Playbook for Life Beyond the Field
Houston, mark your calendars—January 14, 2025, promises the touchdown of a lifetime! NFL Super Bowl Champion, author, and creative visionary Martellus Bennett is gearing up to release his heartfelt picture book, Dear Black Boy. Published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, an imprint of The Quarto Group, this inspirational work is more than a book—it’s a love letter to young boys of color who are often told that their only path to greatness lies in sports.
Houston Man Sentenced to Life in Prison Without Parole for Capital Murder
In a case that underscores the gravity of violent crime and the pursuit of justice, a Houston man has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for the capital murder of 21-year-old Edward Guerrero. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced the verdict on Friday, emphasizing the tragedy and senselessness of the crime.
Refreshed and Revamped: 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Makes Waves in North America
Houston drivers, get ready to turn heads and elevate your driving experience! Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) has just unveiled a sneak peek of the refreshed 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, and it’s slated to hit showrooms in late February 2025. The North American debut promises innovation, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, perfect for families, adventurers, and city dwellers alike. Here’s why the Outlander should top your wish list this year.
Driving the Future: GM’s Bold Shift to Autonomous Personal Vehicles
In a strategic pivot that underscores its dedication to redefining transportation, General Motors (NYSE: GM) is realigning its autonomous driving strategy to focus on personal vehicles. This move signals a decisive departure from its earlier pursuits of robotaxi technology and a renewed emphasis on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as a stepping stone toward fully autonomous personal vehicles. With this shift, GM aims to combine innovation with practicality, catering directly to individual drivers.
Lavish Eats HTX: Serving Up Gourmet Glam for Houston’s Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us, and the culinary game in Houston just got an upgrade, thanks to the city’s newest foodie phenomenon—**Lavish Eats HTX**. This gourmet food truck, known for its flair and elevated "New American" cuisine, is stepping off the streets and onto your holiday table. With a holiday catering menu designed to dazzle, Lavish Eats HTX promises to turn your celebrations into a deliciously unforgettable affair.
From Houston to the High Seas: Aviation Ordnanceman Derian Barnett Shows Off Precision Under Pressure
Houston pride is soaring high—literally—aboard the USS Tripoli (LHA 7), where Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Derian Barnett, one of our city’s own, is showcasing the grit and determination that make Houston a hub of excellence. Recently, Barnett was spotted replacing the barrel of a massive M2HB .50-caliber machine gun, an awe-inspiring demonstration of technical skill and focus during a crew-served weapons qualification.
Hyundai's MyHyundai with Bluelink App Reigns Supreme for Second Year Running
In the competitive world of automotive technology, staying ahead of the curve is no easy feat. But Hyundai’s MyHyundai with Bluelink app has done it again. For the second year in a row, the app has clinched the top spot in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. OEM ICE App ReportSM, solidifying Hyundai's position as a leader in connected car technology.
Taco Bell’s Drive-Thru Revolution: A “Live Más” Moment That Could Star in the Big Game
When it comes to redefining fast food culture, Taco Bell continues to lead the charge, proving their drive-thru experience isn’t just a pitstop—it’s a destination. With their latest campaign, Live Más Drive-Thru Cams, Taco Bell invites fans to step into the spotlight, transforming everyday moments into something worthy of football’s biggest stage.
Texas Consumers Win Big: PUCT Champions Refunds and Bill Credits
In the bustling heart of Texas, where electric grids hum, water taps flow, and cell towers connect communities, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) is making waves—this time, for consumers. With a whopping $144,563 secured in refunds and bill credits in just the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025, Texans are seeing firsthand the power of a regulatory body that takes its mission to heart.
METRO Breaks Ground on New Facility to Enhance Rail Operations
On Monday, METRO broke ground on the new 30,000 square-foot Maintenance of Way (MOW) Facility, a key project aimed at enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability across the METRORail system.
The Department of Energy Powers the Future with $36 Million STEM Traineeship Program
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is turning the spotlight on the next generation of innovators, announcing a $36 million investment into 29 groundbreaking projects under its Reaching a New Energy Sciences Workforce (RENEW) initiative. This ambitious funding push spans 42 institutions across 16 states and is aimed at turbocharging the pipeline of talent in STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Hyundai AutoEver: Driving the Future of Mobility with AWS Premier Tier Partner Recognition
At this year’s AWS re:Invent in Las Vegas, Hyundai AutoEver accelerated its position as a global leader in mobility technology by earning AWS Premier Tier Partner recognition. This prestigious acknowledgment from Amazon Web Services (AWS) highlights Hyundai AutoEver's prowess in cloud-based services, particularly in revolutionizing connected cars and smart factories.
Texas Comfort: DQ's Chicken & Dumplings Are Back to Warm Your Winter
Winter in Texas might not bring blizzards, but it does deliver chilly nights perfect for cozying up with a bowl of something warm, hearty, and undeniably comforting. Enter Dairy Queen's fan-favorite Chicken & Dumplings, making its much-anticipated return to select Texas locations just in time for the season. This isn’t just a dish—it’s a spoonful of nostalgia, crafted with care and bursting with flavor.
I-45 North and South HOV/HOT Lanes Closed this Weekend
This weekend, the I-45 North (North Freeway) and I-45 South (Gulf Freeway) HOV/HOT lanes will be closed due to ongoing construction and maintenance projects.
Deck the Halls, Richmond: A Magical Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Await
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Richmond, Texas, where the historic charm of this small town comes alive in festive splendor. The City of Richmond invites you to ring in the holiday season on Friday, December 6, 2024, with its beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony and the highly anticipated sixth annual Community Christmas Walk. Get ready to be swept off your feet by the sights, sounds, and tastes of a classic small-town Christmas!
Statement from President Joe Biden on the November 2024 Jobs Report
America’s comeback continues. Today’s report shows that the economy created 227,000 jobs in November, as Boeing machinists returned to work with record wage gains and hurricane recovery continued. Unemployment of 4.2% is in the same low range of the past seven months. This has been a hard-fought recovery, but we are making progress for working families.
Yara Shahidi and Danielle Deadwyler Spotted Wearing Gucci
Yara Shahidi wore a Gucci Spring Summer 2025 military green gabardine bomber and shorts, leather gloves and wedge mules to Night Shift hosted by American Express and Delta Air Lines at Jon & Vinny's Miami Residency at The Rubell Museum on December 05, 2024 in Miami, Florida.
METRO to Break Ground on New Rail Maintenance Facility
Join METRO in celebrating the ground breaking of the new state-of-the-art Maintenance of Way (MOW) Facility. Centrally located to serve all three METRORail lines, the facility is designed to enhance operational efficiency, support the maintenance of METRORail vehicles, and expand storage capacity to meet the growing needs of the region.Join METRO in celebrating the ground breaking of the new state-of-the-art Maintenance of Way (MOW) Facility.
Get Ready, Houston: Styx, Kevin Cronin, and Don Felder Unite for The Brotherhood of Rock Tour at The Pavilion
It’s official! Mark your calendars, Houston music lovers, because The Pavilion is bringing rock royalty to our backyard. On June 6, 2025, iconic rock band Styx, alongside Kevin Cronin (formerly of REO Speedwagon) and Don Felder (formerly of the Eagles), will set the stage ablaze with their electrifying Brotherhood of Rock Tour. Prepare for an unforgettable night of timeless classics, soaring guitar solos, and memories that will last a lifetime.
AfroPoP Digital Shorts Unveil 'Spare Me': A Powerful Look at Sundown Town Terrors
Black Public Media (BPM) is redefining storytelling, offering authentic narratives and documentaries through its acclaimed AfroPoP Digital Shorts series. Every other month, BPM delivers thought-provoking films on its YouTube channel, shining a light on untold Black experiences—for free. And just in time for the holiday season, the latest offering, Spare Me, directed by Wilderley Mauricette, promises to take viewers on a haunting journey into America’s unsettling past, while sounding alarms about its echoes in the present.
Bridging the Gap: DOE's Trailblazing Prize Energizes Underserved Communities with Clean Innovation
In a dazzling display of innovation and community-focused action, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has made a significant leap toward equity in clean energy. The culmination of the Community Energy Innovation Prize has ushered in a brighter future, awarding over $2 million to 19 ambitious teams committed to reshaping underserved communities through clean energy and manufacturing innovation.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and NAMI Join Forces to Champion Mental Health Awareness
In a historic move that brings hope, healing, and empowerment, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to elevate mental health awareness and provide critical support within the Black community. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in both organizations' shared commitment to breaking the stigma around mental health, particularly in communities of color.
16th Annual Meet the Buyer Procurement Forum: A Golden Opportunity for Houston’s Small Businesses
Mark your calendars, because the 16th Annual Meet the Buyer Procurement Forum is set to bring a dynamic mix of opportunity, connection, and empowerment to Houston’s small business community! The event, hosted by the City of Houston's Office of Business Opportunity (OBO), will take place on December 5, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the iconic George R. Brown Convention Center.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary: A Year of Magic, Memories, and Milestones
Get ready, Disney fans! The “Happiest Place on Earth” is gearing up for a celebration seven decades in the making. Starting May 16, 2025, Disneyland Resort will kick off its milestone 70th Anniversary Celebration, inviting guests to revel in the timeless magic that has defined the park for generations. From jaw-dropping parades to mouthwatering culinary delights, the year-long extravaganza promises a whirlwind of wonder for every Disney dreamer.
Guarding of the Rings: A Cougar-Powered Tradition at the Houston Zoo
Every university boasts its unique traditions, but the University of Houston (UH) has a legacy that roars—literally. This Friday, December 6, the beloved Guarding of the Rings ceremony returns to the Houston Zoo, uniting graduates, alumni, and Cougar enthusiasts in a celebration that’s as wild as it is heartwarming. From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., UH’s vibrant spirit will shine alongside the zoo’s resident cougars, Shasta VII and his brother, Louie, as they proudly safeguard the rings of the university’s newest alumni.
A Season of Giving: Help Brighten the Holidays for Houston's Foster Children
The holiday season is often celebrated as a time of joy, togetherness, and giving—but for hundreds of children in foster care, the magic of the season depends on the kindness of strangers. This year, the DePelchin Children’s Center is calling on the Houston community to rally together in the final days of their annual holiday gift drive to ensure every child experiences the warmth and love they deserve.
Paws, Presents, and Pampering: PetSuites Long Meadow Has Your Furry Friends Covered This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us! Amid the whirlwind of shopping, cooking, and decking the halls, it’s easy to forget about the little (or big) ones who wag their tails, purr, or chirp their way into our hearts year-round—our pets. This year, PetSuites Long Meadow is here to remind you that your four-legged companions deserve just as much holiday cheer as anyone else.
Holiday Spirit Served Hot: Alley Theatre’s The Night Shift Before Christmas Brings Humor and Heart to Houston
Move over, Ebenezer Scrooge—there’s a new Christmas curmudgeon in town. Alley Theatre’s The Night Shift Before Christmas, running from December 5 to December 29 in the Neuhaus Theatre, puts a fresh, modern twist on the classic holiday redemption tale. Written by Isaac Gómez and directed by KJ Sanchez, this Alley Theatre commission serves up laughs, life lessons, and a side of holiday spirit, all while redefining what it means to have a "ghostly" Christmas Eve.
Love Turned Fatal: The Tragic End of 16-Year-Old Lourdes "Betty" Sandoval
In the bustling heart of Houston’s Greenspoint neighborhood, a chilling tragedy unfolded that still reverberates years later. Lourdes Sandoval, affectionately known as "Betty," was just 16 years old—a young girl brimming with dreams and the promise of a bright future. But on a fateful night in September 2018, her life was brutally cut short, a devastating reminder of the dark grip of domestic violence.
Houston Marks Human Rights Day with Free Admission at Holocaust Museum Houston
Houston’s vibrant cultural heart will beat a little louder this Human Rights Day as the Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH) throws open its doors with free admission on Tuesday, December 10, from 10 AM to 5 PM. This special event promises to be a meaningful celebration of resilience, courage, and the universal fight for human dignity. With captivating exhibits, a survivor’s firsthand testimony, and a spotlight on local human rights organizations, it’s an unmissable opportunity to reflect, learn, and be inspired.
Festive Bliss Awaits: PlazAmericas Unveils Magical Holiday Lineup for 2024
The holiday season in Houston just got a little brighter, thanks to PlazAmericas, affectionately known as "Houston’s Mall of the Familia." Located in Sharpstown, this beloved community destination is rolling out an enchanting slate of events designed to captivate hearts and spread joy. From the lively Festival de la Alegría to the much-anticipated Christmas Celebration, PlazAmericas is serving up holiday magic for Houstonians of all ages.
Driving Sustainability: Hyundai's Bold Hydrogen Initiative Powers the Future of Logistics
In the heart of Ellabell, Georgia, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) is charting a revolutionary course toward sustainable transportation. On December 4, 2024, the company unveiled a groundbreaking initiative: the deployment of 21 Hyundai XCIENT heavy-duty hydrogen fuel-cell trucks, marking a milestone in clean logistics. This ambitious move, in partnership with Glovis America, underscores Hyundai's unwavering commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing eco-conscious practices.
Gunman at large after UnitedHealthcare CEO fatally shot in apparent targeted attack, law enforcement official says
The CEO of UnitedHealthcare was shot and killed in midtown Manhattan Wednesday morning in an apparent targeted attack as he was about to attend the company’s annual investor conference, a law enforcement official tells CNN. The gunman remains on the loose.
Elevating Global Nursing Education: University of Houston’s Role in India’s First Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The University of Houston (UH) has once again demonstrated its global influence, this time in the realm of nursing education. Through the visionary support of UH’s Andy & Barbara Gessner College of Nursing, two prestigious universities in India—MGM Institute of Health Sciences in Mumbai and Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences—have launched the country’s first-ever Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. This groundbreaking collaboration not only advances India’s healthcare capabilities but also reflects the innovative spirit of Houston on an international stage.
Houston Native Shines in the Skies and Seas: Aviation Marvel Aboard the USS Carl Vinson
Houston pride soars high as Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Genelle Green takes center stage aboard the legendary USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Representing the heart and soul of her hometown, Green is making waves in the United States Navy by showcasing her technical prowess and unyielding dedication.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture Celebrates Holiday Traditions from Kwanzaa to Watch Night in December Programming
Kwanzaa Celebrations, Culinary Historian Jessica B. Harris, and New Exhibition Opening
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) invites visitors to celebrate Kwanzaa this December with a series of healing and uplifting events, including an event with renowned culinary historian Jessica B. Harris sharing culinary connections to Kwanzaa. Additionally, on Dec. 13, NMAAHC will unveil its newest exhibition, “In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World” in the Bank of America Special Exhibitions Gallery. On the evening of Dec. 13, visitors are invited to the first public program related to this exhibition, with an evening screening of the “Unfinished Conversations” documentary film. For more details about upcoming museum events, visit nmaahc.si.edu/events.
Couple accused of stealing nearly $1 million from Lululemon in elaborate shoplifting plot
A Connecticut couple is accused of running an elaborate theft ring at Lululemon stores in multiple states, stealing nearly a million dollars from the company. Jadion Anthony Richards and Akwele Nickeisha Lawes-Richards are both charged with organized retail theft under a Minnesota law signed by Gov. Tim Walz only last year.
A Feast of Gratitude: Business Services Team Brings Thanksgiving Cheer to Compton Head Start Families
Thanksgiving is more than turkey and pumpkin pie; it’s a time to give back, spread joy, and foster community spirit. This year, the Business Services division of the Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) delivered a hearty dose of holiday cheer to two deserving families at Compton Head Start. The initiative, led by the warm-hearted and festive Dr. Jesus Amezcua, HCDE’s assistant superintendent of business services, is a cherished tradition that’s as heartwarming as a fresh-out-of-the-oven pie.
Cuisine and History on Full Display for Fortis Academy Students
Fortis Academy students recently embarked on an unforgettable journey through the worlds of culinary mastery and historical remembrance, thanks to thoughtfully organized field trips that combined flavor, culture, and critical lessons from the past. These experiences were designed not only to enrich their education but to inspire the next generation of chefs and critical thinkers in Harris County.
Give a Home for the Holidays: BARC Joins BISSELL Pet Foundation for Empty the Shelters™ Event
The holidays are a time of joy, love, and togetherness, and what better way to celebrate the season than by giving a homeless pet the greatest gift of all—a forever home? This December, BARC, the City of Houston's Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, is teaming up with the BISSELL Pet Foundation to bring hope and second chances to countless stray pets through the *Empty the Shelters™* initiative. From December 1 through December 17, BARC will join over 400 shelters across 45 states to offer reduced adoption fees, making it easier than ever to bring home a furry friend.