Greetings District D,

I hope this message finds you well as we enter the month of July. In this edition of our newsletter, I want to address important topics that highlight our commitment to your safety, well-being, and overall quality of life in District D.

Wishing You a Happy 4th of July: As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, I want to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. This is a time to reflect on the values that unite us as a nation and the freedoms we hold dear. I encourage you to celebrate responsibly and consider the well-being of your fellow community members. Whether you choose to enjoy fireworks displays, participate in community events, or spend quality time with loved ones, let us remember the significance of this day and the sacrifices made by those who came before us.

Staying Protected During Extreme Heat: The summer season is upon us, and with it comes intense heat. It is crucial that we take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. I urge you to stay hydrated, seek shade when possible, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, please check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those who may be more vulnerable to the heat. Remember, we are here to support each other and ensure the well-being of our entire community.

Providing Air Conditioning for Seniors: As part of our commitment to caring for our community, I am pleased to announce our ongoing efforts to provide air conditioning units for seniors. We understand the challenges that extreme heat poses, and it is our priority to ensure that everyone has access to a cool and safe environment. If you or someone you know requires assistance, I encourage you to contact the Houston Area Agency on Aging. They can provide information on eligibility and the application process. Let's work together to keep our community cool and comfortable during these hot summer months.

Reflecting on Juneteenth Celebrations: Last month, we commemorated Juneteenth, a momentous occasion that holds deep historical significance for our community. District D came together to honor the emancipation of enslaved individuals and to celebrate the rich culture, heritage, and contributions of African Americans. It was a time of remembrance, education, and unity. I am grateful for the unwavering support and participation of our community members in making our Juneteenth celebrations a success. Let us carry the spirit of Juneteenth with us throughout the year as we strive for equality, justice, and understanding.

Holiday Schedule for Trash and Recycling Pick-up: Please take note of the following changes to the trash and recycling pick-up schedule due to the upcoming holiday. Thursday and Friday B-week recycling that would have been serviced on Thursday July 6th and Friday 7th, will now be collected on Thursday July 20th and Wednesday July 21st.

Pool Openings and New Ryde Service in District D: Beat the summer heat by taking advantage of the pool openings in District D. Below is information about the pools open in District D:

Pools that are open:

Emancipation Park

Sunnyside Park

Cloverland Park

MacGregor Park

Sagemont Park

Furthermore, I am excited to announce the introduction of the new Ryde service in the 3rd Ward Area. This convenient transportation option aims to improve accessibility for our residents and enhance mobility within our community. For our Third Ward residents, Monday through Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm the RYDE app is providing free rides throughout the community. Head to the Google Play or Apple App Store to download and take advantage of your free ride!

In conclusion, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support and engagement. Our community thrives because of your involvement and commitment to making District D a better place for everyone. As we celebrate the 4th of July, stay safe, enjoy the festivities responsibly, and remember to care for one another. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. Your input is invaluable, and I am here to listen.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. Together, we can achieve remarkable things.

At your service,

District D Councilmember Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz 

Ken Rodgers, a resident and staple of the historic Third Ward, is an exceptional community advocate and volunteer who lives by the family motto of "Not for ourselves, but for others." He tirelessly dedicates his time to serving his community, actively engaging in a range of organizations and initiatives that promote economic development, improve health outcomes, and support Third Ward residents. Furthermore, he is a vital member of community partnerships that strive to enhance the quality of life for residents in the Third Ward area. Ken continues to empower Third Ward making District D proud through a multitude of avenues. 

Ken's dedication to volunteering and mentoring is commendable as he participates in various programs and initiatives that uplift and support the community. One initiative is the University of Houston - Mentor Me initiative at Blackshear Elementary, where he mentors and supports students at Blackshear Elementary School. Additionally, he is actively involved in the Economic Development Committee, which aims to improve economic growth in the Third Ward area. He also participates in health initiatives like the Third Ward Health Council, which works towards improving health outcomes for residents. In addition, Ken supports alumni from Jack Yates High School through his involvement in the Jack Yates Alumni Association. Overall, Ken's involvement in these initiatives highlights his commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Ken is also the President of Greater Third Ward Super Neighborhood 67 and the co-sponsor and founder of "Operation Love."

He is married to Dolores and is a proud father of Tharron, Tara, and Kamaria. Ken also has grandchildren named Kaylan and Daxton and a great-grandchild named Kourtlyn.

Thank you, Ken, for serving the District D Community!

District D Pools are OPEN for the Summer!

Looking for a refreshing way to beat the summer heat? Look no further than the many pools open in District D this season! Take a dip and enjoy some fun in the sun with your loved ones. To find the closest pool to you, simply refer to the list below. Stay cool, stay safe, and have a great summer!

MacGregor Park

Sunnyside Park

Cloverland Park

Emancipation Park

Sagemont Park

Coming Soon:

George Nelson Park

Stay Safe & Beat The Heat

We understand the challenges our beloved seniors and families are facing in the scorching Houston heat, and we're taking action to provide them with much-needed relief.

We're proud to serve District D, and your Councilwoman Evans-Shabazz is working tirelessly to support our seniors and families. Together with the Houston Harris County Area Agency on Aging, we're making a difference.

In the coming weeks, we'll be distributing over 150 portable air conditioning units directly to seniors in need throughout District D. These units will bring cool comfort from the sweltering temperatures, ensuring a safer and more comfortable living environment.

If you or a senior you know requires an air conditioner, please reach out to the Harris County Area Agency on Aging at 832-393-4301. We're here to help and ensure that our seniors are well taken care of.

Let's come together as a community and support our seniors and families during this challenging time.

Together, we can beat the heat and ensure the well-being of our

District D seniors.

The Sunnyside Senior Prom

It was a day of laughter, music and fun as over 150 seniors from Houston's Sunnyside Multi-Service Centers attended the "Golden Time of Day Senior Prom," hosted by the Houston Health Department's Congregate Meal Program. The seniors, aged 60 to 92, were dressed to impress and enjoyed door prizes, a best dance contest, and the crowning of a prom king and queen. The Congregate Meal Program, which offers meals to adults 60 and older through community dining, is a great way for older adults to participate in programs with the Houston Health Department and promote social engagement that helps with their overall well-being. For those who are home-bound, the Houston Health Department also offers home-delivered meals through the "Meals on Wheels" program, using contracts with local non-profit agencies.

District D Loves all of our Seniors!

Texas Women Veterans Day

Mayor Sylvester Turner and the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs did a tremendous job in honoring women who have served in the armed forces on Texas Women's Veterans Day. The Women's Armed Services Integration Act played a vital role in enabling women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. It's crucial to recognize and appreciate the contributions of those brave women who have served our country. It's truly inspiring to see women of all ages being celebrated for their bravery and service. As we commemorate Texas Women Veterans Day, let's express our gratitude to all the women who have proudly served in our armed forces throughout history.

16th Annual Chariot Festival at Orissa Culture Center

Councilwoman Evan-Shabazz would like to express her sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the 16th Annual Chariot Festival hosted by the Orissa Culture Center. It was a truly remarkable celebration of interfaith dialogue, multiculturalism, and universal brotherhood. The newly constructed Center at 3101 Fuqua St. was a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, music, dance, and the delicious aroma of food. I was delighted to be a guest of honor and share inspiring words about the importance of embracing diversity. The festival united people from different backgrounds, emphasizing the strength we gain from embracing our differences. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Orissa Culture Center, their volunteers, performers, sponsors, and the Houston Arts Alliance for their tremendous support. The 16th Annual Chariot Festival may have ended, but our commitment to promoting love, tolerance, and understanding in our community remains unwavering.

Thank you to everyone who made the event a resounding success.

'Feeding our Future' Cuney Homes Food Pantry Grand Opening

We're excited to share news about the opening of the Feeding Our Future Food Pantry at Cuney Homes in Third Ward. This incredible initiative is a testament to the power of community and the impact we can make when we come together. The Feeding Our Future Food Pantry is now open to residents in the Third Ward Cuney Homes, offering a wealth of nutritious food items. With over 500+ households expected to benefit each month, this project is expected to make a significant difference to those in need. The community at Cuney Homes was thrilled to receive almost 500 fresh produce boxes during the ribbon cutting ceremony as well. It's heartening to see how the community is coming together to support those in need. According to a recent survey, over a third of Cuney Home residents report experiencing hunger every week, sometimes multiple times a week. In response, community partners such as the Houston Housing Authority, American Heart Association, Common Market, Fit Houston, and Sankofa Research have collaborated to launch the Feeding Our Future Food Pantry.

If you're interested in supporting this cause, you can give donations to the food pantry by emailing cuneyfoodpantry@housingforhouston.com.

You can also drop food items or funds off to the food pantry at 3260 Truxillo St, Houston, TX 77004.

High Water Usage Alerts

The Consumption Awareness Program (CAP) is an easy and convenient way to manage your water usage and bill. CAP offers alerts and notifications via Text, Email or Phone, Weekly Summary E-mail, CAP Usage Manager, Neighborhood Usage Comparison and Water Usage Calculator. By signing up for CAP customers have access via computer or mobile to active readings, track current billing cycle, monthly, daily, hourly usage, receive Weekly Summary Emails, receive alerts and notifications, water usage calculator and next project water bill.

Sign up to be a VDVR

A Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar (VDVR) is a person who assists in the registration of eligible persons to vote.

Sign up or renew your VDVR status. In District D every vote matters!