The city hosted its first-ever Lunar New Year Celebration on January 17, 2025, at City Hall.
Organized by the Office of the City Controller’s Community Engagement Department and led by Joanne Ray, the event was supported by over 60 community organizations.
Texas Department of Public Safety fires seven employees over a data breach and theft allegations. The department focuses on transparency, cybersecurity training, and protocol updates to prevent future breaches.
Houston’s Bush Airport Terminal B will close until 2026 for a $2.5 billion renovation. The project aims to modernize the terminal, enhance passenger experience, and improve operational efficiency, with operations shifted to Terminal C during this period.
The Houston Health Department reports the city’s first measles cases in seven years, linked to international travel. Two adults from the same household, with unknown vaccination statuses, have been diagnosed. Efforts are underway for contact tracing and public awareness to prevent further spread. Residents are encouraged to ensure vaccinations are current.
Houston officials are implementing enhanced security for the city’s marathon, involving federal, state, and local agencies. The measures come after a recent attack in New Orleans, with uniformed and plainclothes officers stationed along the 26-mile route. The focus is on ensuring participants’ and spectators’ safety.
BP, headquartered in Houston, announces a 5% workforce reduction, totaling 4,700 jobs as part of a $2 billion cost-saving strategy. CEO Murray Auchincloss plans to realign the company with its core oil and gas operations while maintaining BP’s competitiveness in the evolving energy market. The impact on BP’s largest office in Houston, with 4,000 employees, remains uncertain.
Landry Distillery wins a legal battle to keep its name against billionaire Tilman Fertitta. The court ruled no trademark violation occurred, allowing the distillery to retain its identity. This decision holds implications for future trademark disputes and brand name conflicts in varying industries.
The City of Houston announced that municipal employees must return to the office full-time starting February 2024, ending the hybrid work model. Mayor Sylvester Turner informed employees of the decision, emphasizing the need for better collaboration. Employees have voiced concerns about work-life balance and commuting, but city officials promise support for a smooth transition. This decision aligns with a national trend of returning to traditional work environments as pandemic restrictions ease.
Landry’s, Inc., owned by Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta, lost a trademark lawsuit against Austin’s Landry Distillery. The jury ruled no confusion existed between the two brands, highlighting the complexities of trademark law when family names are involved. Landry’s, Inc. may appeal the decision.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has increased the reward for information in the 1981 murder of Karen Lynn Douglas. The DPS seeks leads in hopes of solving the cold case and has urged the public to come forward with any details that may aid in the investigation.