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Lisa Valadez

Stories by Lisa

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Raising Cane’s Celebrates 30th Anniversary With Houston Animal Welfare Giveback

Raising Cane’s is celebrating its 30th anniversary by donating net proceeds from its limited-edition 30th Birthday Plush Puppy to 15 Houston-area animal welfare organizations.

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MICHELIN Guide Texas 2026 Selection to Be Revealed Oct. 8

The MICHELIN Guide will reveal its 2026 Texas restaurant selection on Oct. 8, including MICHELIN Stars, Bib Gourmands and other dining distinctions.

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Houston City Council Passes Right to Air Conditioning Ordinance for Rental Properties

Houston City Council has approved a Right to Air Conditioning ordinance requiring rental properties to provide operable air conditioning, with landlords given 120 days to comply.

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Hobby Center Announces Single-Ticket Sales for 2026-2027 Concert Series

The Hobby Center’s 2026-2027 season brings Broadway stars, Houston artists, jazz, world music and intimate live performances to Houston, with single tickets going on sale Aug. 24.

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Gov. Greg Abbott Targets Houston’s IAH Over Ablution Room and Prayer Facility

Abbott seeks federal review of religious accommodations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport as Houston officials say the facilities are open to all and were built without taxpayer, state or federa

Gov. Greg Abbott is seeking a federal review of religious accommodations at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, while the city says the facility is open to all travelers and was built without taxpayer, state or federal grant funding.

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San Antonio Fall Getaway: Fright Fest Turns Six Flags Fiesta Texas Into a Halloween Adventure

Make a quick fall getaway to San Antonio for Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ biggest Fright Fest yet, with family-friendly Halloween fun by day and haunted mazes, scare zones and nighttime thrills after dark.

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Houston Council Member Announces Free A/C Giveaway as Extreme Heat Threatens Vulnerable Residents

Houston City Council Member Alejandra Salinas is offering 125 free portable A/C units to eligible residents as Houston faces dangerous summer heat.

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Miller Outdoor Theatre Turns September Into a Global Celebration of Music and Culture

From J-pop and New Orleans jazz to mariachi, Latin jazz and opera, Miller Outdoor Theatre is bringing a world of music and culture to Houston this September with a lineup of free performances for all ages.

Harris County Flock Camera Contract Faces Privacy Concerns as Regional Scrutiny Grows

Harris County’s $868,975 Flock Safety contract is facing renewed privacy and oversight concerns as officials and residents debate surveillance safeguards and the company announces new accountability measures

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Discovery Green’s Fall Season Brings Houston Together Through Music, Art and Culture

Discovery Green welcomes fall with a vibrant lineup of free concerts, art installations, cultural festivals, family activities and wellness programs celebrating the many communities that make Houston special.

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Paris Eley’s Remarkable Radio Journey Comes Full Circle With Texas Radio Hall of Fame Induction

Houston broadcasting legend Paris Eley will be inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2026, honoring more than five decades of radio, music industry leadership and community service.

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YES Prep Earns Strong “B” in 2026 Texas Education Agency Accountability Ratings

ES Prep Public Schools earns its highest-ever Texas Education Agency accountability score, with all 15 secondary campuses receiving an “A” rating for overall performance.

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Don’t Worry Willy Weekend Brings Theatre, Family Resources and Neurodiversity Awareness to Houston

Houston families are invited to Don’t Worry Willy Weekend, a new community event bringing together theatre, family resources, sensory-friendly experiences and education focused on neurodivergence and varied learning styles.

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AARP Texas Survey Finds Older Texans Want Stronger Protections Against Crypto ATM Fraud

A new AARP Texas survey finds strong support among older Texans for tougher safeguards against cryptocurrency kiosk fraud, as lawmakers prepare for the 2027 legislative session.

Sip, Savor & Take in the View: A Night at Thompson Houston’s Sol 7

Thompson Houston’s new Chef Tasting Series at Sol 7 combines Chef Sierra Rustrum’s inventive cuisine, curated wine pairings, lively music and stunning downtown Houston views for an unforgettable foodie experience.

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Graceful Gowns Initiative to Host Inaugural Becoming Her Empowerment Luncheon in Houston

The Graceful Gowns Initiative will host its inaugural Becoming Her Empowerment Luncheon in Houston on September 20, bringing women and young leaders together to celebrate mentorship, confidence and leadership.

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Goode Damn Coffee: A Houston-Born Brand Brewing More Than Just a Cup of Coffee

Houston-based Goode Damn Coffee is brewing more than specialty coffee, building a brand centered on brotherhood, connection, community and creating better moments.

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Harris County Backs Texas Firearms Restrictions in Sensitive Locations

Harris County Commissioners Court has authorized County Attorney Abbie Kamin to support Texas laws restricting firearms in sensitive locations as a legal challenge moves before the Fifth Circuit.

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Democratic Gubernatorial Nominee Gina Hinojosa Brings Voting Rights Discussion to Houston Ahead of November Election

At “Taking Back Our Power in Texas: The Voting Rights Act at 61,” Hinojosa reflects on the law’s history, its impact on Black Americans, and the ongoing debate over voting rights and representation in

Democratic gubernatorial nominee Gina Hinojosa visited Houston to discuss the legacy of the Voting Rights Act, its impact on American democracy, and the future of voting rights and representation in Texas.

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Prairie View A&M University Celebrates 150 Years of Legacy Through Sesquicentennial Celebration Choir

Prairie View A&M University celebrates its 150-year legacy with the launch of the Sesquicentennial Celebration Choir, honoring the institution’s rich musical traditions and historic impact

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Houston’s Culinary Stars Take Center Stage as James Beard Foundation’s Taste America Returns to the Bayou City

The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America culinary series returns to Houston Nov. 12, bringing together award-winning chefs, local restaurants and food lovers for an unforgettable tasting experience at Thompson Houston.

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Trill Burgers Brings Award-Winning Houston Flavor to Rice University Campus

Award-winning Houston burger brand Trill Burgers is expanding its campus presence with a new location at Rice University, bringing its signature beef and vegan burgers to students, faculty and visitors.

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Harris County Law Enforcement Pay Parity Investment Cuts Turnover by More Than 50%, Officials Report

Harris County’s $118.4 million law enforcement pay parity investment has reduced officer turnover by more than 50%, increased recruitment and added more officers to serve communities across the county.

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Huntington National Bank Appoints Blake Absher to Lead Central Texas Growth Strategy

The Huntington National Bank has appointed Blake Absher as Central Texas Division President to lead regional growth and strengthen client relationships across Austin, San Antonio, Waco and Bryan-College Station.

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H-E-B Partners With Communities In Schools of Houston to Help Students Start the School Year Ready to Learn

Back-to-school donation campaign supports school supplies and resources for Houston-area students

H-E-B is partnering with Communities In Schools of Houston for a back-to-school donation campaign that helps provide essential school supplies and resources to students across the Houston area.

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Harris County Clerk's Student Runner Program Earns International Innovation Award

Election Night initiative recognized for engaging high school students in civic service and election administration

The Harris County Clerk's Office has received the International Association of Government Officials' Innovator Award for its Student Runner Program, which engages high school students in Election Night operations and civic leadership.

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Cimento Wines and Pendleton Unite for Limited-Edition Magnum Celebrating Pacific Northwest Craftsmanship

Cimento Wines has partnered with Pendleton Woolen Mills to debut a limited-edition 2022 Cimentare Malbec Magnum featuring a custom woven bottle bag that celebrates Pacific Northwest craftsmanship, terroir and collectible design

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Hamra Enterprises Expands Panera Bread Presence in Greater Houston With Second Café Opening in Katy

Family-owned franchisee continues Texas growth with seven planned Houston-area locations by the end of 2026

Hamra Enterprises has opened its second Panera Bread café in Greater Houston as part of a seven-location expansion bringing fresh-baked favorites, new jobs and community investment to the region.

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Mayor John Whitmire Appoints Dr. Kevin Schulz as Houston Fire Department EMS Physician Director

Veteran emergency physician succeeds longtime EMS leader Dr. David Persse

Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Dr. Kevin Schulz as the Houston Fire Department's new EMS Physician Director, succeeding longtime leader Dr. David Persse and bringing more than 25 years of emergency medical service experience to the role.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston Brings Youth Voices to the Table During Second Annual Advocacy Town Hall

Teens, elected officials and community leaders discuss issues impacting Houston’s next generation

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston brought together teens, elected officials and community leaders for its second annual Youth Advocacy Town Hall, where young people led discussions on food insecurity, homelessness, gun violence and substance abuse.

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Fort Bend Commissioners Stand Firm as Legal Challenge to Interim Judge Daniel Wong Continues

During a public meeting, Commissioners Dexter McCoy and Grady Prestage listened to constituents and provided updates on county projects as the legal dispute over Wong’s appoi

Fort Bend County Commissioners Dexter McCoy and Grady Prestage addressed residents during a public meeting as the legal dispute over Interim County Judge Daniel Wong’s appointment continues

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Black Texans Remember the Record, Not the Rhetoric, as 2026 Election Approaches

Leaders point to voting rights, health care, education and economic opportunity as critical issues for Black voters.

Governor Greg Abbott’s criticism of James Talarico’s relationship with Black voters sparks debate over outreach, accountability, and the broader political priorities of Black Texans ahead of the 2026 election.

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When Words and Actions Don't Align: Reflections on Black Media, Campaign Outreach, and Respect

A Houston Style Magazine editorial reflects on a recent James Talarico campaign event, examining the importance of authentic engagement with Black media, respectful outreach, and the role trusted community news organizations play in connecting with Black voters.

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Houston Parks Board Names Ali Flanders Dodson as Chief Advancement Officer

Houston Parks Board has named veteran nonprofit fundraiser Ali Flanders Dodson as chief advancement officer to lead philanthropic growth, communications and community engagement as the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary and continues expanding parks and trails across Greater Houston.

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Escape to the Texas Hill Country: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort Announces 2026 Holiday Experiences

A San Antonio getaway offers Houston families a festive road trip filled with holiday lights, family activities, and seasonal experiences

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas in San Antonio is offering Houston travelers a holiday escape with festive events, family activities, and a limited-time 25% “Christmas in July” booking promotion.

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Houston Properties Earn Three International TOBY Awards for Commercial Real Estate Excellence

Three Houston-area commercial properties earned International TOBY Awards, giving Houston BOMA its first international victories in nearly a decade and recognizing excellence in commercial property management.

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Primark Opens Houston Store at Willowbrook Mall

Primark has opened its second Greater Houston store at Willowbrook Mall, expanding the retailer's Texas footprint with affordable fashion and back-to-school shopping options.

Gov. Abbott Directs Texas Rangers to Investigate Fatal ICE Shooting in Houston

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Rangers to conduct an independent investigation into the fatal July 8 ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston, joining ongoing federal and local investigations.

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Harris County Opposes Proposed Federal Rule That Could Affect Billions in Grant Funding

Harris County Attorney Abbie Kamin is urging the federal government to reject a proposed rule that she says could jeopardize billions of dollars in federal funding supporting disaster recovery, public safety, housing, public health, transportation, and other essential local services.

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Daikin, Astros Foundation Bring $100,000 HVAC Upgrade to Moody Park Community Center

Daikin and the Astros Foundation are investing $100,000 in HVAC upgrades at Moody Park Community Center, improving cooling capacity and year-round comfort for one of Houston's key neighborhood gathering spaces.

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Houston Residents Press City Leaders for Action During Emotional Public Comment Session Following Fatal ICE-Related Shooting

Houston residents packed City Hall during Wednesday's public comment session, urging elected officials to take action following the fatal ICE-related shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and voicing concerns about immigrant rights, surveillance technology, and community leadership.

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Lone Star Flight Museum to Celebrate New Orleans Culture at Annual Jet Setters Ball Fundraising Gala

Houston’s aviation museum will honor Lisa and Jerry Simon for their longtime support while raising funds for aircraft preservation, exhibits and STEM education program

The Lone Star Flight Museum’s annual Jet Setters Ball will celebrate New Orleans culture while honoring Lisa and Jerry Simon and supporting aviation preservation, museum exhibits and STEM education programs.

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Planning a Texas Summer Getaway? San Antonio Offers History, Family Fun and a Fuel Credit for Travelers

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk launches summer offer to help visitors offset travel costs while exploring the Alamo City
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Houston's Bayou Collective to Host 'State of Black Philanthropy: Houston Edition' at Historic Deluxe Theater

August 5 event will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, nonprofits, and corporate partners to explore the future of Black-led giving in Houston.

The Bayou Collective will host State of Black Philanthropy: Houston Edition on Aug. 5 at the Deluxe Theater, bringing together leaders from philanthropy, business, and nonprofit organizations to celebrate and strengthen Black-led giving in Houston.

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Texas Southern University Generates $1.6 Billion Annual Economic Impact, Supports More Than 15,600 Jobs

New report highlights TSU's growing influence on Houston's economy, workforce development, and return on investment as university approaches its centennial

A new Texas Southern University economic impact report finds the institution generates $1.6 billion annually, supports 15,676 jobs, and delivers strong returns for students, taxpayers, and the regional economy.

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YMCA Operation Backpack Helps Houston Students Prepare for School Year Amid Rising Family Challenges

YMCA Operation Backpack returns for its 22nd year, providing more than 30,000 Houston-area students with backpacks, school supplies and support as families face rising costs and back-to-school challenges.

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LOVB Houston Unveils 2026-27 Roster After Championship-Level Season

Houston’s professional volleyball team returns with Olympians, national team standouts, and emerging talent as it looks to build on a historic season.

LOVB Houston has unveiled its 2026-27 roster featuring Olympians, national team athletes, and emerging stars as the team looks to defend its regular season championship and continue building Houston’s professional volleyball presence

Council Member Alejandra Salinas Proposes Right to Air Conditioning Ordinance for Houston Renters

Council Members Sallie Alcorn, Mario Castillo, and Edward Pollard join as co-sponsors of proposal to require working air conditioning in rental properties.

Houston City Council Member Alejandra Salinas has introduced an ordinance that would require landlords to provide and maintain working air conditioning in rental units by eliminating a longstanding exemption in the city's building code.

Things to Do This Weekend in Houston: Food, Fun and 713 Day Celebrations

Celebrate Houston this weekend with free ice cream, immersive art, live entertainment, special food collaborations, brunches, and citywide events leading up to and including 713 Day.

Houston Leaders Call for Independent Investigation After ICE Agent Fatally Shoots Man in East Houston

Houston leaders and civil rights advocates are calling for an independent investigation after an ICE agent fatally shot Lorenzo Salgado Araujo during an enforcement operation in east Houston.

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