🚨 Historic Leadership for METRO Police 🚨 Congratulations to Chief Ban Tien on his appointment as the new Chief of the METRO Police Department (MPD), marking a historic milestone as the first Asian Chief in its history. Chief Tien brings an impressive resume to the role, including 25 years of service with the Houston Police Department (HPD), where he most recently served as Executive Assistant Chief. Additionally, his 32 years of service in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve demonstrate his deep commitment to public service. Under his leadership, MPD will continue working to enhance safety across the transit system, with plans to increase police presence, upgrade technology, and strengthen collaboration with other agencies. We are excited to see Chief Tien lead MPD into a new era of public safety. Congratulations again, Chief! 👏 #METROPolice #Leadership #BanTien #PublicSafety #Community

Calling All Do-Gooders! We need volunteers for the 2024 Annual AAPOA Thanksgiving Turkey Drive! This is your chance to make a real difference in our community this Thanksgiving by helping pack and distribute dinners for families in need. Whether you’re a high school student, college student, community member, or part of a church or business group—we need your helping hands! Event Details: 📅 Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024 📍 Location: 201 Sharpstown Center, Houston, Texas 77036 🍁 Volunteer Shift: Packing starts at 7 AM and will take around 3-4 hours Join us in serving families from Spring Branch, Gulfton, East Aldine, Southwest District, and Hobby area neighborhoods. Together, we can bring joy and warmth to those who need it most this holiday season. Light breakfast will be provided for volunteers. Interested or have questions? Reach out to David at 832-535-9788, Mike at 281-773-6431, or Dang at 281-745-6110. Let’s make this Thanksgiving one to remember! #TurkeyDrive2024 #GiveBackHouston #HoustonCommunity #FamiliesInNeed #VolunteerForGood

Honoring Our Veterans Today and Always This Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the brave men and women who have served our country. Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice inspire us every day. Thank you for protecting our freedoms and paving the way for a brighter future. 🇺🇸 #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans #HonoringHeroes

Remembering Senior Police Officer Calamity “C.J.” Elliott Barnes We honor the life and legacy of Senior Police Officer Calamity “C.J.” Elliott Barnes, who dedicated nearly 44 years to protecting and serving the people of Houston. Officer Barnes, believed to be HPD’s longest-serving African American female officer, was known for her steadfast dedication, resilience, and kindness. She retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and all who served alongside her. May Officer Barnes rest in peace, and may her memory continue to light our path forward. #HPDFamily #RestInPeace #CJBarnes

Honoring Firefighter Marcelo Garcia Station 23/B - End of Watch We are deeply saddened to share the loss of Firefighter Marcelo Garcia III, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while fighting a warehouse fire in Houston’s East End. Firefighter Garcia was known for his kindness, bravery, and commitment to protecting our community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and served alongside him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow firefighters at Station 23. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. #GoneButNotForgotten #HoustonFire #EndOfWatch

🍔 The Hamburger Fundraiser is Happening Now! 🍔 Join us for a tasty burger lunch—served with chips and a drink! Stop by before 2 PM to support a meaningful cause. Proceeds will help with Joyce’s medical and recovery expenses. 📍 Location: 1307 Baker Street, Houston, TX 77002 🍔 $10 for a burger, chips, and a drink 🍪 Add a cookie for $2 Can’t make it but still want to help? Scan the QR code to donate through her GoFundMe! Thank you for supporting our community. See you soon! #Fundraiser #CommunitySupport #Houston

🍔 Join the AAPOA Hamburger Fundraiser to Support a Community Member in Need 🍔 Help us raise funds for Joyce Banks, who’s facing significant medical and daily expenses on her path to recovery. Join us for a delicious meal and show your support! Event Details: 📅 Date: Thursday, November 7, 2024 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 📍 Location: 1307 Baker Street, Houston, TX 77002 (outdoor area) Menu: 🍔 Hamburger with chips & beverage - $10 per person 🍪 Add a cookie for just $2 Every purchase goes toward easing the financial burden of Joyce’s journey. Want to donate directly? Scan the QR code to access her GoFundMe page.

🍁 Celebrate Fall with Us at the Alief® International Fall Festival! 🍂🎉 AAPOA will have a booth at this year’s Alief® International Fall Festival hosted by the Vietnamese American Cultural Association (VACA)! Stop by our booth to learn more about AAPOA, and enjoy the festivities with your family and friends. Enjoy: • Live Music • Festive Food • Bounce House • Face Painting • Market Vendors 📅 Dates: 2 days left! • Saturday, Nov. 2: 1 PM – 10 PM • Sunday, Nov. 3: 1 PM – 10 PM 📍 Location: Bellnott Square 13200 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77083 🎟️ FREE ENTRY! Don’t miss out on a fantastic fall weekend—make sure to swing by and visit the AAPOA booth! #FallFestival #AAPOA #VACA #CelebrateFall #HoustonEvents #FamilyFun

🚨 Reminder! 🚨 Our AAPOA Trunk or Treat is happening TONIGHT! 🎃🍬 Bring the family out for an evening of fun with a bounce house, live DJ, and plenty of candy for the kids. Don’t miss out on this spooktacular event! 📅 When: Tonight, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Where: Mission Bend Storefront Parking Lot 7043 Highway 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 We can’t wait to see you there! 👻 #TrunkOrTreat #HalloweenFun #AAPOA #FamilyEvent

With Halloween just around the corner, let’s ensure everyone stays safe and has fun with these last-minute tips! 🎃 For Trick-or-Treaters: 1️⃣ Travel in Groups: Stick with friends or family for added safety. 2️⃣ Plan Your Route: Stay in well-lit, familiar areas, and avoid shortcuts through dark spaces. 3️⃣ Wait to Eat Candy: Have an adult inspect treats before digging in. 4️⃣ Respect Home Lights: Only approach houses with porch lights on. 5️⃣ Watch Your Step: Be mindful of decorations and uneven sidewalks. 🚗 For Drivers in Neighborhoods: 1️⃣ Drive Slowly: Watch for children running across streets or between parked cars. 2️⃣ Be Extra Vigilant at Intersections: Kids may not always use crosswalks. 3️⃣ Avoid Distractions: Keep your phone down and stay alert. 4️⃣ Use Your Headlights Early: Even before dark, this helps you see and be seen. 5️⃣ Yield to Trick-or-Treaters: Expect the unexpected and stay patient. Let’s all do our part to make this Halloween safe and fun! 🎃👻 #HalloweenSafety #DriveSafe #AAPOA #FamilyFirst #TrickOrTreatTips