Word on the streets of Houston is that it’s been a weekend filled with powerful voices, dramatic skies, and a resilient spirit that defines our city. I’m Morgan Riley, and here’s what’s making headlines today.

Let’s start downtown, where thousands gathered in front of Houston City Hall for the “No Kings” protest on Saturday. Organizers say more than 4,000 people RSVP’d for the event, which aimed to highlight concerns over civil liberties and demand greater accountability from leadership. It wasn’t just a march; it was a tapestry of Houston—people of all ages sharing why democracy matters to them. The rally looped through major streets, filling the area with chants and signs, while community leaders like State Representative Gene Wu spoke about unity and the strength of collective action. Law enforcement, mindful of both public safety and constitutional rights, had a visible presence, but the atmosphere remained peaceful and energized throughout. For those who braved the traffic downtown, it was a reminder of Houston’s long tradition of civic engagement, echoing the city’s role in national movements since the days of the Johnson Space Center’s early activism.

Switching gears, severe storms over the weekend caused significant travel headaches. Both Bush Intercontinental and Hobby Airport experienced major delays, with a ground stop at Hobby that lasted until 9 p.m. Sunday. That hold has since been lifted, but if you’re catching a flight today, check your departure times and pack a little patience—airport officials are still working to get schedules back on track.

In north Houston, a shooting at the Mustang Inn on Tidwell left three people injured Sunday. Police reported a gunfight broke out late in the evening, and investigations are ongoing. This incident has brought renewed calls from neighborhood leaders for increased investment in community safety and local outreach initiatives.

Now for a story close to home—a familiar face at Montrose’s iconic Blacksmith Coffee turned a small act of kindness into something bigger. Local barista Andre Lopez, known for remembering everyone’s coffee order, organized a pay-it-forward campaign on Friday. By midday, more than 120 coffees had been gifted, with customers leaving notes of encouragement for strangers. It’s a simple but uplifting reminder that, even on challenging days, Houstonians look out for each other.

Weather today brings partly sunny skies with highs in the mid-90s and a lingering chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Looking ahead, the Houston Juneteenth Parade returns to Emancipation Park on Wednesday with live music, food trucks, and family activities. For those craving the classics, Miller Outdoor Theatre is hosting a free Shakespeare in the Park performance Friday night.

As we close, I’m struck by how Houston’s heart shows up—in protest, adversity, or a cup of kindness. Our stories reflect the city’s vast diversity and a deep well of hope. This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Remember to subscribe so you never miss a Houston news update. For more information or to share your story, email me at [email protected] or visit our website at Quiet Please dot AI.