Missouri City's Municipal Court has launched three new incentives to make city services easier, faster and more convenient for residents, Municipal Court Director Stacy Froeschner announced in a May 28 Facebook video.

The details: The three new tools and procedures focus on convenience, communications and customer service, including:

1. Text message notification system: Defendants with a valid phone number on file can receive text message notifications for:

• Upcoming payment deadlines
• Scheduled court dates
• Default notices
• Outstanding warrants

• Payment plans
• Defensive driving requests
• Deferred disposition
• Compliance dismissals

Hue Darling Candle Co. has opened opened a brick-and-mortar location in Missouri City, owner Daneille Moss confirmed.

The background: The business started as a candle brand in 2018 selling at markets across the state and gradually expanded to hosting pop-up candle making workshops.

What they offer: The business sells hand poured candles and original artwork as well as offers candle making workshops, Moss said. Additional creative workshops will also be offered in the future.

• 3334 FM 1092 Road, Ste. 440, Missouri City

There are several events taking place throughout the month of June to celebrate Pride Month in Greater Houston. 

Chase the Rainbow: Stride with Pride
The 5K race will celebrate, bring awareness to and raise funds for Katy Pride. Strollers and leashed pets are allowed, according to the event's Race Roster site.

• June 13, 7:30 a.m.
• $39.74 (12 and under); $50.48 (5K); $45.11 (virtual 5K)
• John Paul Landing Park, 9950 Katy Hockley Road, Cypress

• June 14, 1-6 p.m.
• Free
• Bad Astronaut Brewery, 1519 Fulton St., Houston

• June 21, 6 p.m.
• $20-$30 (admission)
• The Hobby Center For The Performing Arts, 810 Bagby St., Houston

Texas’ sweeping immigration enforcement law can take effect for now, a federal appeals court ruled May 29.

The background: Senate Bill 4 gives Texas officials the unprecedented authority to arrest and deport migrants suspected of crossing the Texas-Mexico border illegally. State lawmakers passed the measure in late 2023, and it has largely been tied up in court since.

The latest: In an unpublished order May 29, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals allowed SB 4 to take effect as the case continues, lifting a lower court order that had blocked portions of the law. 

What they're saying: In a joint statement, a trio of civil rights groups decried the May 29 decision as “disappointing and out of step with the Constitution,” saying that they would continue to fight the law in court.

Gov. Greg Abbott celebrated the order as a “major border security victory.” State agencies have not detailed their plans to arrest, detain or deport migrants under SB 4.