Happy Memorial Day from HD!

$832 Million, Kelvin Sampson & More!

Happy Memorial Day, Houstonians! 🌅 

Wishing you a meaningful Memorial Day as we honor and remember the brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. May their courage and dedication never be forgotten.

Hope you have a wonderful week ahead!

In today’s edition:

  • 👮 $832 Million Police Contract

  • 🏀 Kelvin Sampson is Staying

  • ✈️ Passenger Tried to Jump from a Plane

— Sagar

Trivia

Which historic Houston hotel is said to be haunted and hosted many U.S. presidents? 👻🤔

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Houston City Council Approves $832 Million Police Contract

Houston’s City Council just signed off on a massive five-year, $832 million contract for police officers, giving them the biggest pay bump in HPD history.

Starting July 2025, officers will get a 10% raise, with more increases each year, eventually totaling a 36.5% pay hike over five years and bumping first-year officer pay up to about $81,600 with differentials.

The deal also sweetens shift and patrol pay and updates discipline and overtime policies.

City leaders hope this “generational” contract will help keep and attract officers, especially with other cities competing for talent, even as they figure out how to pay for it with a tight budget.

Restaurant Spotlight

If you haven’t checked out Flip 'n Patties at 1809 Eldridge Pkwy Suite 108 yet, you’re missing out on one of Houston’s coolest spots for comfort food with a Filipino twist.

The vibe is super chill and colorful, perfect for hanging out with friends or grabbing a bite with family.

Their Wagyu burgers—especially the Amboy and Pogi Melt—are seriously juicy and come on these awesome, slightly sweet buns.

But don’t stop at the burgers! The menu is packed with fun Filipino-inspired eats like garlic fries, chicken pupu, and crispy lumpia.

Portions are huge (hello, leftovers), and the prices won’t break the bank. Plus, the staff is always friendly and happy to help you pick something new to try. Definitely a spot you’ll want to come back to.

  • Must-try Wagyu burgers (Amboy and Pogi Melt are top picks)

  • Unique Filipino sides like garlic fries and lumpia

  • Big portions and great value

  • Bright, relaxed setting with plenty of space

  • Super friendly and helpful service

Want to get your restaurant in front of 7,500+ locals? Email us at [email protected]

What Else?

Kelvin Sampson Stays with UH Basketball
Kelvin Sampson just signed a four-year extension to keep leading the University of Houston men’s basketball team. He’s been the driving force behind UH’s national success, and fans can look forward to more big seasons. With Sampson locked in through 2029, the Cougars are set to keep their winning momentum going. Read more 

NASA Astronauts Get Hero’s Welcome in Houston
Four NASA astronauts are getting a big welcome home at Space Center Houston after returning from the International Space Station. The public event on May 22 featured stories from their missions and a special awards ceremony for key contributors. It’s was a chance for space fans to celebrate some serious milestones—including over 121 million miles traveled and months of groundbreaking research in orbit. Read more

Unruly Passenger Forces Tokyo-Houston Flight to Divert
A flight from Tokyo to Houston had to make an unexpected stop in Seattle after a passenger tried to open an emergency door mid-flight. The crew and other passengers jumped in to help, and authorities met the plane when it landed safely in Seattle. Everyone’s okay, but that’s definitely one flight story folks won’t forget anytime soon. Read More

Step into the vibrant heart of Houston’s East End with this inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath bungalow at 120 Adams St.

Perfectly situated near downtown, this charming home blends historic character with modern updates, offering a bright, open living space and a spacious kitchen ideal for entertaining.

Enjoy a private, fenced backyard—perfect for relaxing evenings or weekend gatherings. With quick access to local dining, parks, and major highways, this property is a fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers or investors seeking a prime location in a thriving neighborhood.

Highlights:

  • 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath

  • Open-concept living and dining area

  • Updated kitchen with ample storage

  • Private, fenced backyard

  • Off-street parking

  • Minutes from downtown Houston, parks, and restaurants

Contact Rebecca Vera today to schedule your private tour and discover the charm of East End living!

Want to get your listing in front of 7,500+ locals? Email us at [email protected]

The Bulletin

Got something cool to share about your business, a project you’re working on, a new hire, or just want to say hey to 7,500+ Houstonians?

Get Down, Downtown! is a fun, free dance night at Market Square Park where professional instructors teach high-energy lessons-like salsa, bachata, and merengue-so everyone can join in, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer. After the lesson, the party keeps going with a live DJ, letting you show off your new moves and enjoy a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of downtown. More info here

Summer Trivia Nights Gather your friends and head to Trebly Park for Downtown Houston’s Summer Trivia Nights, where themed evenings-ranging from Marvel and Stranger Things to Disney and Harry Potter-bring fun questions, music, and friendly competition to the heart of the city. Registration starts at 6 p.m., trivia kicks off at 6:30 p.m., and it’s free to play, with prizes for the top three teams. More info here

Create Your Own Turkish Mosaic Lamp!

Looking for a unique weekend activity? Join Pedalisa Turkish mosaic lamp workshops and craft your very own colorful glass lamp using traditional techniques. Whether you come solo, with friends, or as a family, this hands-on experience is relaxing and fun — no artistic background needed! Enjoy complimentary Turkish tea and desserts while you design, chat, and unwind. A perfect blend of culture, creativity, and connection.

📍 Sugar Land — Open 7 days a week

📍 Pearland — June 14th

📍 The Woodlands — June 21st

Use code HOUSTONDOSE for 20% off — limited spots available!

Want to get your event in front of 7,500+ locals? Email us at [email protected]

Monday, May 26

🎨 LIGHT AND SHADOW - NEW EXHIBIT OPENING | Free
9:30am-3:00pm | Cultural Center Our Texas

🚀 The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks Lands at Space Center Houston | Free
Multiple Times | Space Center Houston

🦊 Extreme Animals Alive! at HMNS | $
9:00am-5:00pm | Houston Museum of Natural Science

Tuesday, May 27

👯 In The Heights | $
7:30pm | 800 Bagby Houston, TX 77002

🧑‍🍳 Sorrento's Kids Culinary Adventure | $
10:00am | Sorrento Ristorante

👗 David's Bridal Sample Sale | $
5:00pm-7:30pm | 4520 San Felipe St. Suite 100 610, San Felipe Shop Center

Wednesday, May 28

🍷 California VS Italy Wine Dinner | $
6:00pm-9:00pm | Sorrento Ristorante

🚲️ Ready! Set! Pedal! Bike Freedom Academy | $
5:30pm-6:30pm | 5000 Harrisburg Blvd, Houston, TX 77011 Houston, TX 77004

🎭️  The Viral Comedy Show | Free
9:00pm-11:00pm | 1600 Bar + Grille

Thursday, May 29

🩰 Raymonda by Houston Ballet | $
7:00pm | Brown Theater

🎭️ Das Barbecü | $
7:00pm | Stages

⚾️ Rays vs. Astros | $
7:10pm | Daikin Park

Friday, May 30

🎶 Alejandro Fernandez | $
8:30pm | Toyota Center

🦸 Dream Con 2025 | $
All Day | George R. Brown Convention Center

📽️ Houston Asian American Pacific Islander Film Festival (HAAPIFEST) | $
10:00am-10:00pm | 10609 Westpark Drive Houston, TX 77042

Saturday, May 31

🧘‍♀️ Fitness In The Park by Equinox | Free
12:30pm | River Oaks District

🎭️ Figurative Histories Artists Panel | $
2:00pm-4:00pm | Moody Center for The Arts

🪴 PLANTCON Houston 2025 | $
10:00am-6:00pm | NRG Park

Sunday, June 01

⛸️ Themed Skate Nights at Ice Skate Memorial City | Free
Check Website | 303 Memorial City Way Houston, TX 77024

🎶 Texas Music Scene Live at Avenida Houston | Free
7:00pm | Avenida Houston

🤩 Juneteenth Houston's 3rd Annual Celebrate Freedom Fest | Free
1:00pm-7:00pm | Emancipation Park Conservancy

Do you like the new Events section layout? 🤔

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Trivia Answer: The Rice Hotel is the correct answer because it has a long history of hosting U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy, and is widely rumored to be haunted, with numerous ghost stories reported by guests and residents.

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