Harris County Commissioners approved a $500,000 grant to International Pride Softball (iPride) to host the Gay Softball World Series in Houston from September 21 to 27. The tournament is expected to draw teams from 55 cities, about 3,000 athletes and 2,000 spectators, generating hotel and food spending in the county. State incentive funding had previously supported the event but Governor Greg Abbott's office rejected iPride's application this year, risking the tournament. Local officials emphasized economic benefits and community welcome, while one commissioner questioned public funding when many youth baseball tournaments receive no subsidies.
Looking forward to welcoming all of these thousands of visitors to Houston and Harris County, where they're going to spend money on hotels and food.
We were heartbroken because it made us feel like we weren't welcome. It made us feel like we weren't valued.
We're just more emboldened and proud to show off our brand of softball in a welcoming community in about a month.
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