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Lisa Valadez

Stories by Lisa

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Menefee and Edwards Lead Tight Race for Texas’ 18th Congressional District Ahead of Early Voting

With early voting starting October 20, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards lead a crowded field in the special election for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, signaling a likely runoff on November 4.

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Porscha Brown Appointed Executive Director of Harris County’s Managed Assigned Counsel Program

Harris County has appointed Porscha Brown as Executive Director of the Managed Assigned Counsel Program, reinforcing the county’s commitment to fair and effective legal representation for residents who cannot afford private counsel.

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Harris County Offers Free Help for Medicare Enrollment During Open Enrollment Period

Harris County residents can get free help reviewing and updating their Medicare coverage for 2026. Assistance is available in-person, virtually, and by phone. Open enrollment ends December 7.

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Daikin and Houston Astros Host Big League Experience Youth Baseball Clinic

Houston kids ages 7–14 can step up to the plate this fall! The Big League Experience at Daikin Park on November 8 offers pitching, batting, base-running drills, and a chance to meet Astros pitcher Spencer Arrighetti. Spots are limited—register starting October 22.

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Hermann Park Conservancy Invites Houston to Fall Fitness Events Supporting the Park

Get active this fall and support Houston’s beloved green space! Join the Park to Port Bike Ride on October 25 or Run in the Park on November 8—fun for all ages and fitness levels. Register now and help sustain Hermann Park.

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Broadway Musical Water for Elephants Heads to Houston’s Hobby Center in January 2026

Experience the magic of the circus on stage! Water for Elephants, the critically acclaimed Broadway musical based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel, comes to Houston’s Hobby Center January 27–February 1, 2026.

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HOPE Releases First National Report on Economic Status of Latinas

HOPE releases its first national report on Latinas’ economic and leadership progress, highlighting strong workforce participation, rising entrepreneurship, and a persistent $1.7 million lifetime wage gap for Texas Latinas.

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Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort Kicks Off the Holidays with First Annual Tree Lighting and Extravaganza

Looking for a festive Hill Country getaway? The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio is lighting up the season with its first-ever Holiday Extravaganza — featuring live reindeer, s’mores by the fire, Santa’s grand arrival in a red Ferrari, and more family fun all season long.

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Record Attendance at 11th Annual Girls in Aviation Day at Lone Star Flight Museum

More than 675 aspiring aviators and STEM leaders attended Girls in Aviation Day at the Lone Star Flight Museum, experiencing hands-on activities, aircraft tours, and guidance from female leaders in aerospace.

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Magical Winter Lights Returns to Fort Bend County

Houston’s holiday lantern festival, Magical Winter Lights, returns November 21, 2025, at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, featuring dazzling lanterns, acrobatic performances, cultural vendors, and a new interactive petting zoo.

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Fielding’s River Oaks Expands Lunch Service to Thursdays, Offering Chef-Driven Midday Dining

Houston diners can now enjoy Fielding’s acclaimed lunch menu on Thursdays, featuring seasonal specialties, premium steaks, and a new outdoor patio experience.

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Texas Bowl Announces 2025 Gridiron Legends Class, Honoring Football Stars and Houston Icons

Texas politics is entering a bold new era. As the 2026 election approaches, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and State Representative Katrina Pierson — two fearless, outspoken women on opposite sides of the aisle — are eyeing higher offices that could reshape the state’s political future. From historic Senate bids to influential congressional campaigns, these rising stars are redefining what it means to lead in Texas.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston Celebrates 75 Years at Gala, Raises $600,000 for Mentorship Programs

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston marked 75 years of mentorship at its gala, raising $600,000 to connect hundreds of local youth with caring mentors

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Teatro Índigo Brings 12th Season of “Calavera con Calavera” to the Hobby Center

Teatro Índigo returns to The Hobby Center for the 12th consecutive season of Calavera con Calavera, a vibrant Día de Muertos celebration blending theater, music, and Mexican heritage.

Texas Primary Race Shows Tight Senate Contest, Shifts in Voter Preferences

Five months before the March 2026 Texas primary, a new survey shows U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton in a tight Republican Senate race, with Wesley Hunt trailing. The survey also highlights shifts in Trump’s support and potential Democratic contenders.

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The Periwinkle Foundation Hosts Houston’s Iron Sommelier Wine Tasting Event and Fundraiser

Houston’s premier wine tasting event, the Iron Sommelier, returns on November 20 at The Post Oak Hotel, benefiting pediatric cancer patients through The Periwinkle Foundation. Guests will sample exceptional wines, engage with top sommeliers, and enjoy auctions, raffles, and a four-course dinner.

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Congressman Green Opposes Trump Nobel Peace Prize

Congressman Al Green has formally urged the Nobel Committee to reconsider any potential nomination of former President Donald Trump for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, citing concerns over his foreign policy record and the integrity of the award.

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Council Member Edward Pollard Partners with Custom Technology Solutions to Launch More Jobs Houston Platform

Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard has teamed up with tech entrepreneur Nadeem Mazhar to launch MoreJobsHouston.com, a dynamic platform that centralizes thousands of local job opportunities. The initiative aims to make employment more accessible, boost the local economy, and provide Houstonians with the tools they need for meaningful careers

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Harris County and TSU Honor Dr. John Biggers with Two New Murals Celebrating Art and Activism

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis and Texas Southern University unveiled two new murals honoring artist Dr. John Biggers and TSU’s civil rights pioneers, celebrating a legacy of creativity, courage, and community in Houston.

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Little Ghouls Gear Up for a Spook-tacular Halloween at Houston Premium Outlets

Get ready for a hauntingly fun afternoon at Houston Premium Outlets’ Spook-tacular Halloween Event on October 25!

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Halloween Fun for Kids at Children’s BOO!seum Houston and BOO!scovery Center

Houston families can enjoy a month of Halloween fun at Children’s BOO!seum Houston and Fort Bend Children’s BOO!scovery Center, featuring safe trick-or-treating, spooky crafts, mad science, and weekend specials through October 31, 2025.

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Fort Bend Libraries Mission Bend Branch Offers Free College-Preparedness Workshops on Financial Aid and College Planning

Students and parents can get free guidance on college admissions, financial aid, and planning for higher education at the Mission Bend Branch Library’s fall workshop series, “S.T.E.P. Into College,” starting with “T: Tackle Financial Aid” on October 25

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Comedy Icons Unite for the “Legends of Laughter” Tour at NRG Arena

Houston’s NRG Arena will light up with laughter on May 2, 2026, as the Legends of Laughter Tour brings comedy icons Sommore, Lavell Crawford, Earthquake, and Don “DC” Curry together for one unforgettable night of humor, storytelling, and classic stand-up.

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BAPS Houston Celebrates Diwali with Fireworks and Cultural Exhibits

Experience the magic of Diwali at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Houston with a spectacular two-day festival featuring cultural exhibitions, a Kids’ Carnival, over 1,000 vegetarian dishes, a dazzling light and sound show, and a grand fireworks finale — all celebrating unity, culture, and the triumph of light over darkness.

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Spring ISD Hosts College, Career, and Military Readiness Night

Spring ISD families explored college, career, and military pathways during the district’s annual College, Career, and Military Readiness Night, designed to help students plan their futures after high school.

Houston Texans Assess Growth, Roster Depth Ahead of Bye Week

Texans focus on roster growth, depth, and preparation as they head into their bye week following back-to-back wins

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Wild Bird Adventures: Live Raptors and Education Program at Fulshear Branch Library

Fort Bend County Libraries invites K-5 students to Wild Bird Adventures: Birds, Books, & Beyond on October 13 at the Fulshear Branch, featuring live raptors, educational activities, and tips for exploring birds in the wild.

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Fort Bend County Libraries Hosts Boo Bash at George Memorial Library

Fort Bend County Libraries invites families to a free, festive Boo Bash at George Memorial Library on October 11, featuring Halloween stories, crafts, a murder-mystery game, a family-friendly movie, and pumpkin-cookie decorating.

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Harris County Launches “Plan Together” Mobility Programs in Precinct One

Commissioner Rodney Ellis unveils five new programs to improve safety, accessibility, and infrastructure equity

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis launches Plan Together, five new mobility programs in Precinct One aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and resilience, with equitable infrastructure investments across Houston neighborhoods.

Dolores Huerta Foundation Launches Educational Lesson Plans for Hispanic Heritage Month

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Dolores Huerta Foundation has released K–12 lesson plans highlighting the life and legacy of Dolores Huerta, offering educators and students new resources to explore Latino history, labor rights, and community impact.

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Fort Bend County Libraries Launch Kanopy PLUS Streaming Service for Library Cardholders

Fort Bend County Libraries now offer Kanopy PLUS, giving library cardholders unlimited access to hundreds of films, including curated British Cinema & TV and Easy Watching collections.

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Annise Parker Leads Democratic Field in Harris County Judge Race According to New Poll

According to a new poll, former Houston Mayor Annise Parker is leading the Democratic field in the Harris County Judge race ahead of the March 3, 2026 primary, with 15 candidates competing for the seat.

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Alejandra Salinas Reports Fundraising Total in Houston City Council Special Election

Alejandra Salinas reports over $500,000 raised in the November 4 Houston City Council At-Large Position 4 special election, with 15 candidates competing for the remaining term through January 2028.

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The Ensemble Theatre Presents Of a Darker Hue in Artist Highlight Project

The Ensemble Theatre presents Of a Darker Hue this October, a lantern-lit theatrical experience by playwright Reginald Edmund that amplifies powerful stories of resilience and survival as part of its Artist Highlight Project.

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Houston to Host 2025 Black Authors Matter Children’s Book Awards

The 2025 Black Authors Matter Children’s Book Awards winners will be announced at the 2024 National Black Book Festival in Houston. Celebrate outstanding children’s authors, discover new books, and join free author events for the whole family.

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Wireless Infrastructure Association Awarded $5 Million Grant to Lead Texas Broadband Workforce Program

The Wireless Infrastructure Association has been awarded $5 million to lead a statewide program training Texans for high-demand broadband careers. In partnership with the University of Houston System, the initiative will prepare thousands of certified fiber optic technicians to meet the state’s broadband expansion goals

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Odus Evbagharu Secures Key Endorsements as Jon Rosenthal Pursues Railroad Commission Seat

Odus Evbagharu secures broad endorsements for Texas House District 135 as current representative Jon Rosenthal pursues a statewide seat on the Texas Railroad Commission, signaling a key leadership transition in northwest Harris County.

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Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Launches “Geaux Bold” Tourism Campaign

Discover Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou like never before with the bold new “Geaux Bold” tourism campaign, offering unforgettable adventures, authentic Cajun cuisine, and vibrant cultural experiences just an hour from New Orleans.

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Toni Braxton Brings Music and Sisterhood to Lifetime with Two New Films

GRAMMY® Award winner Toni Braxton brings her music to the screen with two new Lifetime films celebrating romance, resilience, and the power of female friendship.

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32nd Annual Spirituality in Nursing Conference to Highlight Mental Health and Spiritual Care

The Institute for Spirituality and Health at the Texas Medical Center will host the 32nd Annual Spirituality in Nursing Conference, offering nurses and students tools to integrate spiritual care and mental health support into patient care.

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HCU Expands Campus Housing with University Place Repurchase

Houston Christian University plans to repurchase University Place, expanding on-campus housing by 33% to accommodate growing student enrollment and enhance the residential experience.

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UH Report: Houston Households Struggle with Debt and Rising Costs

A new University of Houston report reveals growing financial strain, widespread debt, and stark savings disparities among Houston-area households, highlighting challenges for local families and small business communities.

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First All-Black High School Polo Team Makes Historic Competition Debut in Atlanta

Atlanta BEST Academy makes history as the first all-Black high school polo team, winning their debut match at the 2025 Soul Symphony Weekend.

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Houston Designer DCASSO Custom Designs Makes Debut at New York Fashion Week

Houston designer Demitric “D” Simmons makes his mark on the global fashion stage with DCASSO Custom Designs debut at New York Fashion Week, blending bespoke elegance with bold, modern style.

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Ghostly Tales Live On: Fort Bend’s Local History Preserved in John C. Allwright’s Books

Discover the ghosts of Fort Bend! John C. Allwright’s classic “Fort Bend Ghost Stories” preserves more than 35 local hauntings while supporting the George Memorial Library’s history department.

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Ayoola LIVE Comes to The Ensemble Theatre

The Ensemble Theatre brings Afro-Diaspora stories to Houston with Ayoola LIVE, a one-night musical storytelling event blending live music and theatrical monologue.

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Latino Entrepreneurs Week Returns to Houston for Hispanic Heritage Month

Houston’s Latino Entrepreneurs Week returns this October, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with workshops, pitch competitions, and resources to empower the city’s growing Latino business community.

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The Capital Grille’s Wagyu & Wine Pairing Returns to Houston for Fall

The Capital Grille’s Wagyu & Wine pairing returns to Houston this fall with gourmet Wagyu burgers and rare-by-the-glass Dave Phinney wines, available through Nov. 16.

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Houston Theater Week 2025 Breaks Records With $2 Million in Ticket Sales

Houston Theater Week 2025 set new records with more than 43,000 tickets sold and $2 million in revenue, showcasing 400 performances across the city’s vibrant theater scene. The fourth annual event brought music, dance, theater, and a celebrity lecture series to audiences throughout Greater Houston.

Northwest Harris County MUD 24 Hosts National Night Out Block Party Oct. 7

Northwest Harris County MUD 24 invites residents to its Annual National Night Out Community Block Party on October 7. The family-friendly event will feature first responders, safety demonstrations, kids’ activities, and free refreshments.

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