COMMUNITY

Get ready to Empty the Shelters in Houston at BARC Animal Shelter
by Sierra Rozen
| September 30, 2025
That’s what BARC Animal Shelter hopes will happen at the Empty the Shelters event. From Oct. 1-15, BARC Animal Shelter, along with 300+ shelters across 38 states, will be offering reduced adoptions fees through a partnership with BISSELL Pet Foundation.

Rate of uninsured children in TX tops list
| September 30, 2025
Affordability | CULTURE | EQUALITY | FAMILY | Federal Cuts | health insurance | insurance | LIFESTYLE | Local news | local politics | Medicaid | politics | TEXAS
Texas has the highest uninsured rate for children in the nation. That’s according to a report from Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families.

12 Houston events to help you fall into October
by Sierra Rozen
| September 29, 2025
It’s every fall lover's favorite month! And while Houston is still enjoying (or sweating in) hotter weather for the season, there are still plenty of upcoming events to help get you in the spooky and autumnal spirit. Keep reading for just a few of the festivals and other events we’re looking forward to.

Houston’s Southern Smoke Festival returns with its biggest lineup yet
| September 29, 2025
2025 southern smoke festival | Community | CULTURE | ENTERTAINMENT | food and drink | HARDGATE | HOUSTON LEAD STORY | HTX | LIFESTYLE | southern smoke festival | tourism
Sample bites from 85+ top chefs, sip signature cocktails, and enjoy live music at Houston’s biggest culinary block party on October 4.

Austin-based Brazilian snack brand takes home the big bucks at H-E-B small business competition
by Sierra Rozen
| September 26, 2025
Grab-and-go snacks, easy cocktails, and spice packets were the stars at H-E-B’s Quest for Texas Best award ceremony, where five Texas businesses were awarded a collective $110,000 to help grow their small ventures.



