Laser Focus World is an industry bedrock—first published in 1965 and still going strong. We publish original articles about cutting-edge advances in lasers, optics, photonics, sensors, and quantum technologies, as well as test and measurement, and the shift currently underway to usher in the photonic integrated circuits, optical interconnects, and copackaged electronics and photonics to deliver the speed and efficiency essential for data centers of the future.

Our 80,000 qualified print subscribers—and 130,000 12-month engaged online audience—trust us to dive in and provide original journalism you won’t find elsewhere covering key emerging areas such as laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, lasers in space, integrated photonics, chipscale lasers, LiDAR, metasurfaces, high-energy laser weaponry, photonic crystals, and quantum computing/sensors/communications. We cover the innovations driving these markets.

Laser Focus World is part of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B.

Laser Focus World Membership

Never miss any articles, videos, podcasts, or webinars by signing up for membership access to Laser Focus World online. You can manage your preferences all in one place—and provide our editorial team with your valued feedback.

Magazine Subscription

Can you subscribe to receive our print issue for free? Yes, you sure can!

Newsletter Subscription

Laser Focus World newsletter subscription is free to qualified professionals:

The Daily Beam

Showcases the newest content from Laser Focus World, including photonics- and optics-based applications, components, research, and trends. (Daily)

Product Watch

The latest in products within the photonics industry. (9x per year)

Bio & Life Sciences Product Watch

The latest in products within the biophotonics industry. (4x per year)

Laser Processing Product Watch

The latest in products within the laser processing industry. (3x per year)

Get Published!

If you’d like to write an article for us, reach out with a short pitch to Sally Cole Johnson: [email protected]. We love to hear from you.

Photonics Hot List

Laser Focus World produces a video newscast that gives a peek into what’s happening in the world of photonics.

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast dives deep into the fascinating world of photonics. Our weekly episodes feature interviews and discussions with industry and research experts, providing valuable perspectives on the issues, technologies, and trends shaping the photonics community.

Editorial Advisory Board

  • Professor Andrea M. Armani, University of Southern California
  • Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D., LightSolver
  • James Butler, Ph.D., Hamamatsu
  • Natalie Fardian-Melamed, Ph.D., Columbia University
  • Justin Sigley, Ph.D., AmeriCOM
  • Professor Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, and Leibniz University of Hannover
  • Professor Stephen Sweeney, University of Glasgow
  • Mohan Wang, Ph.D., University of Oxford
  • Professor Xuchen Wang, Harbin Engineering University
  • Professor Stefan Witte, Delft University of Technology

Houston Developer JB THibodeaux Launches First Ever Duplex Giveaway to Support Local First Time Buyers

The innovative initiative will award a brand-new duplex and provide homeownership education to help local families build generational wealth.

(PRUnderground) August 11th, 2025

JB Thibodeaux Homes and Properties has officially launched the Duplex Flex Giveaway, a housing initiative designed to support first-time buyers in the Houston market. One participant will be selected to receive full ownership of a newly built duplex located in Houston, TX. The property serves as a hands-on learning module, guiding participants through the full journey of real estate investing, from acquiring land to building, renting, and eventually selling for profit.

The launch created an immediate buzz. In fact, the program’s website experienced a temporary outage due to the high volume of submissions within the first hour. The Duplex Flex Giveaway is the first of its kind and apart of the First Home, First Investment initiative, a broader effort that offers property ownership alongside a structured educational experience.

The initiative was formally introduced at a press conference held on July 15, 2025, with the support of local and state leaders, including:

  • Councilmember Willie Davis, Houston City Council At-Large Position 2
  • State Representative Charlene Ward, Texas House of Representatives
  • Letters of support were also received from Councilmember Tarsha Jackson and Twila Carter, Houston City Council At-Large Position 3.

Their collective presence highlighted the community’s investment in innovative approaches to housing access.

“This is bigger than just handing someone a set of keys,” said the Duplex Giveaway innovator James Thibodeaux. “It’s about delivering a foundation for long-term financial security and helping families take the first step toward building a legacy.”

How the Program Works – The six-week cohort will provide 44 participants with hands-on guidance from industry professionals.

Key takeaways:

  • Navigating the homebuying process
  • Real Estate basics for investing
  • Tools to manage personal finances
  • Land acquisition and property maintenance

At the conclusion of the course, one graduate will be awarded:

  • Full title to a brand-new duplex
  • Hands on Coaching to support long-term success

The winner will be announced during the Open House Soirée on October 18, 2025, details coming soon.

Addressing Real Challenges to Ownership

Soaring mortgage rates have placed traditional homeownership out of reach for many hardworking families. This initiative offers an alternative, removing the need for a down payment while also equipping participants with knowledge. Supported by Prosperity Bank, the NAACP, and a network of community partners, the program seeks to reduce the homeownership gap and offer a sustainable entry point into real estate.

“We’re focused on impact,” Thibodeaux added. “For families who’ve been told to wait or who’ve felt shut out of the market, this is a chance to step into ownership on solid ground.”

About JB Thibodeaux Homes and Properties

JB Thibodeaux Homes and Properties is a real estate development firm committed to expanding access to homeownership and financial mobility. Through innovative design, strategic education, and inclusive partnerships, JBTH transforms properties into opportunities for economic growth and sustainability.

The post Houston Developer JB THibodeaux Launches First Ever Duplex Giveaway to Support Local First Time Buyers first appeared on

Press Contact

Name: LaToya F Hurley
Phone: 3469809062
Email: Contact Us

Original Press Release.

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms Of Service.