Friday, May 31
Using Technology to Stay Cool in Summer
Staying cool in summer is easier than ever thanks to technological innovations that are making homes smarter and their inhabitants more comfortable.
More than Half of Americans are Unprepared for Natural Disasters: Are You?
Only 39 percent of respondents in a FEMA survey say they have developed an emergency plan and discussed it with their households.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott Announces $1.6B in Teacher Raises
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said that $1.6 billion in teacher raises are coming. Abbott trumpeted the pay hikes near the end the Texas Legislative session.
Amazon Offers Employees $10K to Start a Delivery Business
Amazon has a proposition for its employee: Become a delivery entrepreneur. According to CBNC, the tech giant is offering its employees $10,000 to set up their delivery business
The Trade War Comes to Walmart, Target and Macy's
America's top stores and consumer brands have avoided serious damage from the prolonged US-China trade clash. But tariffs are starting to bite the retail sector.
State to Do Away with Writing STAAR
Under House Bill 3906, fourth and seventh graders would no longer take the writing STAAR test that tests a student’s ability to compose, revise and edit a variety of written texts. But writing will still be a testing subject.
Texas Moves to Arm More Teachers to Prevent School Shootings
Texas moved a big step closer to arming more teachers and school personnel as a way to help prevent future campus shootings, under a bill sent to Gov. Greg Abbott.
“Becoming a Hair Stylist” by Kate Bolick
Sometimes, you feel like you could just dye. Or curl, or cut, or braid. Some days, you want a change in style, a different ‘do, maybe something like you’ve seen in a magazine. Or you want to be the person who makes that happen, so read “Becoming a Hair Stylist” by Kate Bolick and see if you have what it takes.
Former Miss Black Texas Sues City, Ex-Chief Over Arrest
A beauty pageant winner has sued a Texas city and its former police chief over an evading arrest charge that was later dropped. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Carmen Ponder filed the federal civil rights lawsuit Monday in Dallas over her May 2017 arrest in Commerce.
One of the First Black Woman to Lead a Fortune 500 Company
Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. has announced that Mary Winston, a seasoned public company executive who recently joined the Bed Bath & Beyond Board of Directors, has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Eliminate Stress & Pain with Float Therapy
Float..float onnnnn. Every time I think of float therapy I automatically play “Float On,” by The Floaters in my head. I’m sure float therapy is nothing like what they were thinking about when they wrote the song, but it’s EVERYTHING you need to try.
Kids' Meals Kicks Off 'Hunger Free Summer' Campaign to Deliver 400,000 Meals to Local Children
On June 1, Kids’ Meals kicks off its annual Hunger Free Summer initiative to provide hundreds of thousands of nutritious meals to children in underserved communities.
Competitive Edge
Houston Texans complete the second week of Organized Team Activities
“They line up in a bunch formation and they all have the same moves coming off the line,” says Texans defensive back Jonathan Joseph as he discusses a certain team the Texans will face this upcoming season with his positions coach. “Sometimes they switch the alignment of the receivers to throw you off,” he continues.
Encourage Healthy Eating Habits in Kids
As a parent, instilling healthy eating habits in your children at an early age can aid in proper growth and development. Eating well goes a long way toward maintaining a healthy weight, increasing energy levels and improving moods while also reducing risk of obesity and other chronic issues such as heart disease and diabetes later in life.
Houston’s First Latin Restaurant Weeks Launches on June 2nd
Latin Restaurant Weeks, a two week initiative promoting Latino-owned restaurants in the Houston area, will launch on June 2. Running until June 16, participating restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner.
O'Rourke Announces Immigration Plan Ending Family Separation, Offering Solution for Dreamers
2020 Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke unveiled his immigration policy plan Wednesday morning, arguing that his border roots make him the best candidate to roll back Trump administration policies and spearhead major changes to modernize the US immigration system.
Rita Moreno Becomes First Latina with PEGOT Status
As if Rita Moreno could be any more inspiring, the 87-year-old actress and performer re-made history after becoming the first Latina to achieve ‘PEGOT’ status at the 78th annual Peabody Awards in New York City.
HCC Helping Minority Businesses Prepare for Hurricane Season
Part of a $500,000 Disaster Recovery and Resiliency grant the Houston Community College received last year will be used to help local minority-owned businesses still recovering from Hurricane Harvey, and help others prepare for the 2019 hurricane season, college officials announced Friday.
St. Peter The Apostle Catholic School Closing
After 77 years of educating children in Houston’s Third Ward, St. Peter The Apostle Catholic School is closing its doors. Houston Public Media reports the superintendent over the archdiocese’s schools, Debra Haney, said that a lot of the decision came down to financial pressure. It’s also a reflection of the toll that charter schools have put on not just public schools, but also parochial schools like St. Peter’s.
Bernie Sanders Uses Pamela Turner’s Police Shooting In New Campaign Ad
The only presidential candidate to seemingly even acknowledge last week’s police shooting that killed an unarmed Black grandmother in Texas has made that controversial death the centerpiece of a new campaign ad.
Alvin Teen Earns 6.9 GPA, Becomes First Black Valedictorian At Alvin High School
Alvin High School just saw a barrier of theirs be crossed as a black teen became the first Black valedictorian in school history.
The Burden of College Loan Debt
The reaction -- shock, joy, disbelief, euphoria -- revealed the importance of Robert F. Smith's stunning gift, when he announced, unexpectedly, that he would pay off all the college debts of Morehouse College students graduating this year. His gift literally changed the prospects and the lives of the vast majority of those 396 graduates.
Smithsonian Institution Names First African American Leader in 172-year History
The first African American to head the Smithsonian Institution was elected Tuesday by the collection of museums' board of regents, the organization announced in a statement. Lonnie G. Bunch III was elected as the 14th secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, which maintains more than a dozen museum and galleries, as well as the National Zoo.
Joe Biden Makes First Campaign Stop In Houston
Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden visited Houston Tuesday for campaign events, including a town hall meeting with the American Federation of Teachers and then a fundraiser.
Safer or Scarier: How Will Children of Color Feel About Armed Teachers?
To be clear: I agree that immediate action is needed to protect our children from recurring gun violence in our schools. In fact, just two weeks ago I wrote a call to action, here, urging that “Our Schools Have Become Warzones, Our Children at the Front Lines: Question Is, When Are We, ‘The Adults, ‘ Going to Join Them?” Is the best course of action to put more guns in our schools without any restrictions on gun purchase or ownership though?
Thursday, May 30
Art Meets Science and Technology at Midtown Houston’s 1st Children’s Performance Art Festival
Midtown Houston will celebrate the thrilling space where art meets science at their 1st Children’s Performance Art Festival. The event will be held at Midtown Park on June 1, 2019 from 10 am to 4 pm. This year’s theme will explore how digital elements can enhance art with cutting edge innovation. There will be live music entertainment, artisan food, beverages and interactive art and science activities that speak to the festival’s theme.
47 State Attorneys General Tell Secretary DeVos to Follow the Law: Forgive Federal Student Loans Held by Disabled Veterans
Although Memorial Day is considered by many civilians as the unofficial start of summer, the true intent of the holiday is to annually honor those who lost their lives fighting for our country. The men and women who wear or have worn this nation’s uniform in military service across wars and generations are deserving of remembrance as well as appreciation.
A New York teacher made black students act as slaves in mock auctions
A New York teacher singled out African-American students and cast them as slaves in a mock "auction" as part of a social studies lesson in March.
Fact-checking Trump's flurry of lies Thursday morning
One day after special counsel Robert Mueller publicly refused to exonerate President Donald Trump and hinted at potential impeachment, the President responded Thursday with an avalanche of widely debunked lies about the investigation and its findings.
Virginia Beach Schools to increase recess times
Recess times for students a part of the Virginia Beach City Public Schools will be increased.
Secretary of Agriculture disagrees with Idaho on hemp bust
The Secretary of Agriculture says Idaho is wrong when it comes to a legal ruling on hemp, that resulted in an out-of-state truck driver being charged.
Epsom Derby 2019: Aidan O'Brien saddles over half of Epsom Derby field
Billed as Britain's richest race, the Epsom Derby is the stand-out fixture on the social and sporting calendar.
A teen needed a stable home to make the kidney transplant list. So his teacher took him in
Damien, 13, didn't believe it when he found out his new foster parent would be his math teacher, Finn Lanning.
St. Louis County police searching for 'Bro' who could be seen at UFC watch parties
The St. Louis County Police Department is asking for help identifying a man believed to be involved in a counterfeiting incident.
Meghan McCain blasts Trump over USS McCain controversy
President Donald Trump's repeated attacks on Sen. John McCain have made it difficult for his daughter, Meghan McCain, to heal following the death of her father last August, she said Thursday.
Naomi Osaka rallies again at French Open, this time against Azarenka
Naomi Osaka and Victoria Azarenka are both two-time grand slam winners but when they crossed paths at the French Open, one was surging while the other sought a return to her finest days.
Her deported dad couldn't attend graduation. So she wore her cap and gown to meet him on a border bridge
Sarai Ruiz received her high school diploma at a graduation ceremony in Texas last week. But one of the most important people in her life, her dad Esteban, could not attend.
Foul ball injures a young fan at the Cubs-Astros game and leaves a distraught baseball player in tears
A sharply hit foul ball struck a girl during the Chicago Cubs' game with the Astros in Houston on Wednesday night, sending the young fan to a hospital and pausing the contest as the batter knelt in shock.
Austria names its first female chancellor
Austria is welcoming its first female chancellor with the appointment of Brigitte Bierlein, who will lead a caretaker government until elections can be held in September.
Wednesday, May 29
Natural ways to prepare for this season’s coughs and colds
There’s never a convenient time for your child to get sick. While missed school (and work!) days are going to happen, there are steps you can take to minimize them. As a pediatrician and a parent, I’m eager to share strategies to support their immune system so they’ll be less likely to get sick in the first place. I’m also including simple ways to address your child’s cough and cold symptoms that don’t involve medication.
CBCF Highlights Impact of Philanthropy at #SClassic19!
Reps. Lacy Clay and Stacey Plaskett to co-chair summer event that raises funds for talented students working to continue and complete their education
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) announced today it would host the 27th Annual Mervyn L. and Stephanie Tubbs Jones Memorial Scholarship Classic at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina in Cambridge, Md. from June 23-24, 2019. The two-day event, featuring honorary co-chairs Congressman Lacy Clay and Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, will reiterate the need for and impact of academic scholarships for African American students.
CAREGIVING: Hope And Health For Caregiving Families
After a life-threatening accident stopped her completely in her tracks a few years ago, author Sharon Wegscheider-Cruse and her family came to truly understand that we are all one event from a lifestyle change.
IKEA Hosts Swedish Midsummer Feast to Celebrate Summer
Discounted Tickets Available for IKEA FAMILY* Members for $12.99 Per Person / $2.99 for Kids 12 and Under
IKEA invites you to celebrate the start of summer and the longest day of the year with its annual Midsummer Smörgåsbord on Friday, June 21, 2019 at participating stores nationwide**. Tickets for IKEA’s all-you-can-eat buffet are available for only $16.99 per person / $4.99 for kids 12 and under, or at a discounted rate for IKEA FAMILY members ($12.99 per person / $2.99 for kids 12 and under).
Chemists build a better cancer-killing drill
Rice U.-designed molecular motors get an upgrade for activation with near-infrared light
An international team of scientists is getting closer to perfecting molecule-sized motors that drill through the surface of cancer cells, killing them in an instant.
Spend your Summer at San Jacinto
The San Jacinto Museum of History invites you to spend your summer exploring everything the Museum, Monument and Park has to offer.
Grand Opening and Panel Talk on Wome n's Suffrage to Be Held on June 18 at TSLA C in conjunction with “Women’s Power, Women’s Vote” exhibit
Grand Opening and Panel Talk on Women's Suffrage to Be Held on June 18 at TSLAC in conjunction with “Women’s Power, Women’s Vote” exhibit
Tuesday, May 28
Mayor Turner Opens First Campaign Field Offices June 1
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner will preside of the grand openings of the first two field offices of the 2019 campaign Saturday, June 1.
AARP Texas Calls on Governor Abbott To Sign ‘Incredibly Good’ Bills for Older Texans, Consumers
The 2019 session of the Texas Legislature resulted in passage of bills that AARP Texas is calling on Governor Greg Abbott to sign into law to improve the wellbeing of older Texans and other consumers.
Teen Heroes Show That By Working Together They Become More Than Their Disabilities
Philip Sallinger was 12 years old when his father had "the talk” with him, and it was the single greatest moment of his life. What Philip thought was going to be a cringe-worthy discussion about the birds and the bees turned out to be the revelation that not only were superheroes real, but that Philip was the latest in a long line of "custodians” — those who use their superpowers to protect others.
How A Hybrid Model Can Help Retailers Survive The Online-Shopping Trend
With shoppers finding much of what they want online, the future of the brick-and-mortar store can seem bleak.
Congress should pass the USMCA trade deal
Congress will soon vote to approve -- or reject -- the biggest trade deal in a generation.
New Play Takes on School-to-Prison Pipeline and Overrepresentation of Black Children in Foster Care in ‘Black, White & Sunshine’
August 1-4, 2019
Houston Play On Purpose and Playwright Holly Charles announce the debut of the groundbreaking stage play Black, White & Sunshine, which sheds light on the disproportionality of minority children swept into both the juvenile justice and child welfare systems. While various procedures are in place to protect underserved youth, Sunshine exposes how one-size fits all policies and legislation often do a disservice to children of color and those born into less fortunate circumstances.
Houston Native Among the First to Complete Modernized Operations Specialist Training
A 2014 Phillis Wheatley High School graduate and Houston native is currently serving with the U.S. Navy as an operations specialist (OS), prepared to perform duties at sea as a plotter, radio-telephone and Command and Control sound-powered telephone talker, and to maintain Combat Information Center displays of strategic and tactical information.
Houston Parks Board Hit with Criminal Complaint
The Houston Parks Board is spending 100 million dollars of your money, but they don’t want you to see who is on their payroll and how much they make.
Tickets on Sale for Candytopia Houston TODAY at 12 pm CT
Colossal Candy Creations, Flying Unicorn Pigs and Marshmallow Tsunamis to Invade Space City Beginning June 14
Candytopia, the candy-coated experiential adventure that has delighted over 750,000 guests across the country, is bringing its confectionery wonderland to the heart of Houston at the The MARQ*E entertainment center (7620 Katy Fwy, Suite 360 Houston, TX 77024). The limited-run engagement will debut June 14. Candytopia, the candy-coated experiential adventure that has delighted over 750,000 guests across the country, is bringing its confectionery wonderland to the heart of Houston at the The MARQ*E entertainment center (7620 Katy Fwy, Suite 360 Houston, TX 77024). The limited-run engagement will debut June 14.
Spanish footballers arrested in match-fixing probe
Spanish police have arrested a number of players and officials as part of an investigation into match-fixing in football, they said in a statement.
Serena Williams rallies after French Open first-round scare
For all her singles titles on the grass at Wimbledon -- seven of them -- Serena Williams can still thrive on clay, despite its challenges.
Rescued hiker's survival story: 17 days in Hawaii forest on berries, river water and smarts
It had been more than two weeks that she had been lost in a thick Hawaiian forest, and Amanda Eller was at an end.
First fully albino giant panda filmed in Chinese forest
A fully albino giant panda has been filmed roaming bamboo forests in China -- the first ever recorded in the wild, an expert says.
These myths about Mount Everest feed its mystique (and its traffic jams)
Ever since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers to summit Mount Everest in 1953, adventurers the world over have tried to follow in their footsteps.
Serena Williams makes a high-fashion statement a year after her French Open catsuit ban
Serena Williams made her first appearance at the French Open after officials banned the black catsuit she wore during last year's competition, and she did so in a flashy, black-and-white tennis set with a mesh underlay
Pride 2019: 5 New York exhibitions that honor the legacy of Stonewall
This June will be a month of celebration in New York, as the city ushers in the sixth edition of WorldPride. The timing is especially powerful because 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the historic Stonewall uprising, the precursor to the contemporary pride parade as we know it.
In Japan, Trump accuses Jussie Smollett of hate crime against his supporters
President Donald Trump took time from his Japan state visit Sunday to slam actor Jussie Smollett for not apologizing to his supporters after his alleged staged attack.
Moby apologizes to Natalie Portman after claiming in his new book that they dated
Moby is apologizing for what he wrote about Natalie Portman in his new memoir, "Then It Fell Apart."
Kanye West shares a touching story about his late mother
Kanye West knows his mother would have loved to see her grandchildren full of energy and enjoying life.
What to watch and obsess over now that 'Game of Thrones' is done
It is truly a dark time. "Game of Thrones" is over, and depending on what you thought of its grand conclusion, you're either in mourning or ready to exorcise the whole scarring experience from your soul.
'Game of Thrones: The Last Watch' pays tribute to show's foot soldiers
"Game of Thrones: The Last Watch" could easily be dismissed as HBO's way of maximizing its ample investment in the series, a glorified electronic press kit to extend the program's run by one more week. Yet after many viewers spent the final season bashing the show, the two-hour documentary served a dual purpose, offering a reminder of all the grueling work that went into making it.
Seth Rogen reveals his formula to becoming a successful filmmaker
Seth Rogen lives by a two-part rule. One, when everyone else stops, keep going. Two, don't become anyone's biggest problem.
The 'Game of Thrones' character originally slated to survive
There was lots of death in the final season of "Game of Thrones," but one character who got killed was actually supposed to survive the carnage.
North and Saint West sing at Kanye's Sunday Service
Kanye West's Sunday Services are becoming a family affair. Two of his children, daughter North and son Saint, popped up in videos reportedly from this week's service.
Here's how Arya actually killed the Night King on 'Game of Thrones'
"Game of Thrones" may be over, but the moment when Arya Stark laid waste to one of the show's biggest villains will never get old.
James Charles cancels upcoming tour following Tati Westbrook feud
Beauty vlogger James Charles has canceled his upcoming "Sisters" tour, which was meant to be a 24-city extravaganza full of "beauty tutorials" and entertainment.
'Running With Beto' provides inside look at life on the campaign trail
Temporarily setting politics aside, "Running With Beto" is an intriguing fly-on-the-wall look at Beto O'Rourke's losing 2018 Texas Senate bid, and the nature of a grass-roots Democratic campaign in a red state. The HBO documentary functions less successfully as a window into the candidate, other than the sacrifices and occasionally frayed nerves that go hand in hand with such a pressure-cooker environment.
'Aladdin' works its magic at the box office
"Aladdin" cast its spell over the holiday weekend box office.
Elton John refused to 'tone down' the sex and drugs in 'Rocketman'
Elton John isn't shying away from his wild days. In fact, he said he pushed producers of "Rocketman" for an honest portrayal of his sex and cocaine-fueled days of the past.
Rapper Meek Mill says Las Vegas Cosmopolitan hotel is 'racist as hell' after they turned him away
Meek Mill is asking Twitter for "lawyers ASAP" after a run-in with the hotel staff of the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Spice Girls tour suffers 'awful' sound problems for second night
Fans of the Spice Girls are demanding refunds after the girl group's long-anticipated reunion tour was plagued by sound problems for the second consecutive night.
JLS singer Oritsé Williams cleared of raping fan
JLS singer Oritsé Williams has been cleared of raping a woman after a 2016 concert. Williams and his tour manager Jamien Nagadhana, both 32, were charged by police in September, over allegations of a sexual offence in a hotel room in Wolverhampton, England.
Iggy Azalea leaves social media after topless pics leaked
Rapper Iggy Azalea deactivated her Instagram and Twitter accounts after topless photos of her surfaced which she said left her feeling "violated."
Ariana Grande has something to say about her wax figure
If you count up her hit albums, Ariana Grande has had serious success on wax. (For those who don't get that joke, that's what records once were on before you started streaming your life away.)
Trump says he's not 'personally bothered' by North Korea missile tests
President Donald Trump refused to back away from his positive assessment of North Korea on Monday, saying he wasn't "personally bothered" by the regime's recent short-range missile tests despite the contradictory views of his Japanese hosts and his own national security adviser.
Trump says Rolling Thunder ride will return to DC, organizers say not so fast
As hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists arrive in the nation's capital Sunday to participate in the final Rolling Thunder, where they pay tribute to service members killed in action or taken as prisoners of war, President Donald Trump says the event will continue next year -- even as the group's president says the annual event is set to end.
How YouTube comments are the best way to understand Donald Trump
On Memorial Day -- or really Memorial Night -- CNN will air an hour-long special featuring comedian Colin Quinn. I reached out to Colin to talk about how he developed the special, how comedy fits into this current political moment and his views on President Donald Trump.
Flynn's case could prompt release of some redacted parts of Mueller report
Sought-after parts of the Mueller investigation may be made public this week, thanks to a federal judge who's taken an unusual approach in former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn's case.
Fact-checking North Korea's missiles and the UN Resolution
In early May, North Korea test fired short-range ballistic missiles, the first such launch since late 2017 and the first since President Donald Trump began meeting with North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un. Speaking to reporters over the weekend about these missile tests, US national security adviser John Bolton took a strong line.
Klobuchar says John McCain 'kept reciting' dictator names during Trump's inauguration
Democratic presidential candidate Amy Klobuchar on Saturday told a crowd of voters in Iowa that late Arizona Sen. John McCain "kept reciting" the names of dictators to her during President Donald Trump's inauguration speech in January 2017.
Union chief blasts Trump pick to lead citizenship agency, says choice signals 'end of legal immigration'
The head of a union representing US Citizenship and Immigration Services employees on Sunday slammed Ken Cuccinelli, an immigration hardliner who President Donald Trump is expected to tap to lead the agency, saying his potential appointment "spells the end of legal immigration as it currently exists."
Pete Buttigieg says he wants to 'live a life that's worthy' of fellow service members
Calling Memorial Day "a day beyond politics," Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg on Monday reflected on the holiday's meaning and paid tribute to the members of the military he served with in Afghanistan.
TSA now permits FDA-approved epilepsy drug containing cannabis on flights
A pediatric epilepsy drug containing cannabis that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration is now permitted on flights, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
A private group says it's started building its own border wall using millions donated in GoFundMe campaign
A group that raised millions of dollars in a GoFundMe campaign says it has broken ground on a project to build its own stretch of border wall on private property.
There's one thing Democrats need if they want to break the Electoral College
Why bother amending the Constitution when you can just agree to ignore it? That's essentially the idea behind the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, whereby states agree to pledge their electoral votes to whichever candidate wins the popular vote nationwide.
'He's going to have to earn it': Can Joe Biden hold on to his place as Democratic front-runner?
Joe Biden promises in nearly every speech he makes that "no one is going to work harder" to earn votes in the race for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination.
Trump undercuts his own pomp and circumstance
President Donald Trump often gripes about his bad press -- but as his state visit to Japan shows, sometimes he's his own worst enemy.
Texas secretary of state who led failed voter purge effort steps down
Texas' secretary of state, who led an unsuccessful effort to purge thousands of voters from the state's rolls earlier this year in a move that critics said was intended to intimidate voters on a false narrative of widespread fraud, resigned Monday after failing to attract sufficient support in the state legislature to stay in the role.
Here's the next political truism that Trump might overturn
The 2020 election may test as never before one of the most enduring rules of presidential politics, the straightforward four-word maxim coined by Democratic strategist James Carville in 1992: "It's the economy, stupid."
New York Times: Trump administration planning to change how long-term effects of climate change are assessed
The Trump administration is planning to change how it assesses the long-term effects and impacts of climate change, The New York Times reported Monday.
NFL star J.J. Watt announces engagement to soccer player Kealia Ohai
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt and Houston Dash forward Kealia Ohai made their engagement official on Sunday.
Friday, May 24
Featured Artist Of The Month: Local R&B Crooner Amaru 'The Musical Nomad' Opens Up About Childhood Trauma And Giving A Free Concert For Charity
With his soul-stirring melodies, Amaru 'The Musical Nomad', sung to an audience of community supporters, activists and individuals who deal with mental health daily.
Election 2020: With Hyper-Partisan Politics, Who Needs Russian Interference?
To be clear: hyper-partisanship poses a greater threat to our elections than any foreign government ever will. As the race for 2020 comes to a slow boil with 23 Democratic candidates currently vying for the nomination to oppose President Trump, the partisan politics have already begun to shape the issues we are supposed to really care about.
The GOP's Attack On Women
Alabama -- led by utterly clueless male legislators -- just passed the most restrictive ban on abortion in the country, with Georgia and Missouri piling on. Other states dominated by right-wing Republican politicians are jockeying to join in. Their aim is to get the courts, newly packed with right-wing judges appointed by Trump, to overturn Roe v. Wade, the landmark precedent that established a woman's right to choose in the early months of pregnancy.
Sweet, Refreshing Summer Snacks
There’s no time like a hot summer picnic to let your patriotic spirit show. These all-American snacks featuring a classic favorite fruit – watermelon – are the perfect solution for nearly any summertime celebration.
“Ladysitting: My Year with Nana at the End of Her Century” by Lorene Cary
You were their hope for the future. For your elders, your birth represented things they wished would happen but that they’d never know. It was a joy for them to see you come into the world but for you, as in the new book “Ladysitting” by Lorene Cary, it’s harder to see them go.
Why are Tony Buzbee and Bill King Attacking Our Black Elected Officials?
“Corrupt” “Vindictive” “Show pony” “Petty” “Pay to play politics” “Dictator.”
These are just a few of the epithets being hurled at Mayor Sylvester Turner by his two opponents in the November city elections.
7 Steps Toward Superior Sleep
While it’s fairly common knowledge that quality sleep is essential to overall wellness, there are several factors that can keep you from getting the rest you need. However, overcoming them is well within your control.
Texas House Passes 'Save Chick-fil-A' bill Critics Say Will Discriminate Against LGBTQ Community
The Texas House passed legislation on Tuesday that supporters say provides religious protections, but Democrats and critics argue would allow discrimination against the state's LGBTQ community.
XFL Returns to Houston
Oliver Luck stood at the podium and flashed his huge smile that most Houstonians remember from his time as a quarterback for the Houston Oilers, CEO of Houston Sports Authority, and President/GM of the Houston Dynamo. Luck was in town to announce the new coach and general manager of the XFL team that will begin play in Houston at TDEC Stadium at the beginning of 2020.
Survey: Teen Girls’ Interest in STEM Careers Declines
New Survey by Junior Achievement Asks Teens about Career and Job Goals
A new survey by Junior Achievement (JA) conducted by the research group Engine shows that only 9 percent of girls between ages of 13 and 17 are interested in careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). This is down from 11 percent from a similar survey in 2018. Teen boys’ interest in STEM careers increased slightly to 27 percent, up from 24 percent in 2018. The survey of 1,004 teens was conducted from April 16 to 21, 2019.
McGowan Is First African American Valedictorian at St. Thomas High School
Doing something that no one has done before is a task with no blueprint. Although Kellin McGowan did have somewhat of a guide on his quest to become the first African-American valedictorian in the history of St. Thomas High School, his rich family legacy of achievements was all he needed.
Class of 2019: Saluting African American and Hispanic High School Valedictorians
Twelve years (13 if you include Kindergarten) of school makes the hassle definitely worth the tassel. High school seniors across our city don the ceremonial cap and gown for one of the most important walks of their life, the walk to receive their diploma. With bright smiles and wide eyes, they accept their diploma in their right hand and turn their tassel with their left hand.
Wednesday, May 22
Who should pay for what when you’re dating or married?
In her latest book, wealth advisor Nicole Middendorf shares creative advice to help women navigate love and money
Who should pay for a date? When is the right time to discuss money with a potential partner? “I want women to feel comfortable and confident talking about financial matters with anyone,” says Nicole Middendorf, CDFA, whose previous book – “Lipstick on the Piggy Bank” – divulged the secrets every woman should know about happiness, money and independence. Now in her fifth and latest book, “Who Pays? Navigating Love and Money”, Middendorf is shattering money taboos and revealing when you should use that dreaded word: budget.
Building Video Games and Learning to build them? Code Ninjas to Debut in Aliana, Richmond to Teach Kids Coding in a Cool Way
Code Ninjas Center Opens May 25 and Focuses on Building Video Games, Robotics, Drones, and other Technology and STEM Camps
Say the words “video game” and your kids are bound to stop and listen. The local owners of a new Code Ninjas, a learning center that debuts in Aliana, Richmond on May 25 at 10223 West Grand Parkway S. Ste. 101, in the Target Plaza, know that video games aren’t only fun, but can be educational too. Code Ninjas will serve the local area kids by teaching children computer coding and problem-solving skills.
Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Introduces Bill to Require Congressional Access to ICE Detention Facilities
The Public Oversight of Detention Centers (POD) Act would provide members of Congress access to immigration detention centers within 48 hours of request
This week, Rep. Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) alongside Reps. Jason Crow (CO-06), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Hank Johnson (GA-04) introduced legislation to prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from blocking members of Congress from access to detention centers that house immigrants and migrant children. The Public Oversight of Detention Centers (POD) Act would promote transparency and accountability by allowing members of Congress to gain access to detention facilities within 48 hours of request. The bill would provide entry to both juvenile and adult facilities. To date, there are over 200 immigration detention facilities with the detention bed number a record high of 49,000.
The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Free Skin Cancer Screening Program Stops in Houston, TX Destination: Healthy Skin Brings Skin Cancer Education to Thousands Nationwide
The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Destination: Healthy Skin RV is back for its third year, stopping in Houston on May 5-6.
Uncover A Witty Romantic Comedy as Houston Ballet Brings Back The Merry Widow
With only two more ballets left in its 2018/19 season, Houston Ballet brings back Ronald Hynd’s The Merry Widow. This full-length story ballet is a romantic comedy Houston hasn’t seen since 2013, when Principal Mireille Hassenboehler took her final bows with Houston Ballet.
Introducing Silver Lake: Bold, bright summer bedding from Flaneur
Introducing Flaneur's bold new Silver Lake bedding collection for Summer 2019. Inspired by the exotic color palette of the Bird of Paradise plant - the official flower of the City of Los Angeles - this capsule collection combines three shades, Chang'an, Amsterdam and Avignon, to striking effect.
ACA Armstrong receives TDCAA Civil Practitioner of the Year award
Assistant County Attorney Barbara Armstrong received the 2019 Texas District and County Attorneys Association’s Gerald Summerford Civil Practitioner of the Year award during the annual TDCAA Civil Law Seminar in San Antonio, Wednesday, May 8.
Texas House tanks Pro-Life priorities, ignores grassroots supporters and the cries of the unbornTexas House tanks Pro-Life priorities, ignores grassroots supporters and the cries of the unborn
The Texas House of Representatives killed all but one Pro-Life priority bill, shirking their responsibility to protect Life. While other states and the Texas Senate besieged abortion and euthanasia this year with life-saving legislation, the Texas House stopped zero abortions and again green-lighted the 10-day countdown on the lives of vulnerable, hospitalized patients for at least two more years.
'The Voice' crowns its latest winner
The winner of Season 16 of "The Voice" was announced Tuesday, and it was a big night for a new kid on the block.
'Aladdin' should rub audiences the right way
Chalk it up to modest expectations -- starting with early previews that rubbed people the wrong way -- but "Aladdin" is a great deal of fun, with charming leads and elaborately mounted songs. It's hardly a whole new world, but in this suddenly well-populated land of live-action reboots, makes the most out of its familiar one.
TV show producers cancel plans to scout for filming locations in Georgia because of abortion law
Executive producers for a new television show have decided not to scout for filming locations in Georgia because of the signing of the controversial "heartbeat bill."
Keanu Reeves voices new character in 'Toy Story 4' trailer
We're just one month away from "Toy Story 4" and Pixar has dropped a new trailer with yet another new character.
Cardi B postpones several concerts to recover from plastic surgery
Cardi B has postponed three upcoming concerts in order to recuperate from recent plastic surgery procedures, her publicist Patientce Foster told CNN.
Even Aaron Rodgers didn't like 'Game of Thrones' finale
Being an extra in "Game of Thrones" didn't soften Aaron Rodgers' thoughts on the series' finale.
Kristen Wiig's comedy pulls out of Georgia after anti-abortion bill signing
The creative team behind "Bridesmaids" has joined a growing movement to boycott Georgia in the wake of the signing of an anti-abortion bill.
Ellen DeGeneres renews her talk show for 3 more years
"The Ellen DeGeneres Show" isn't going away -- at least through 2022.
Ford's delivery robot walks like a human
Ford, best known for its cars, pick-up trucks and SUVs, is experimenting with something totally different: a package-carrying robot.
Wall Street's love affair with Tesla is over
Tesla was once the darling of Wall Street. Not anymore. The automaker's stock has plunged nearly 40% since the start of 2019, erasing most of the gains it made over the past several years. This week, Tesla shares fell below the $200 mark for the first time since 2016.
Drivers injured, students unhurt in bus-vehicle accident in Bel Air
Firefighters had to extricate a person from a car involved in an accident with a school bus in Harford County Wednesday morning.
Should you sell a stock if the CEO is?
If the CEO or board member of a company is selling stock, should I do so too?
A healthy dog was euthanized so it could be buried with its owner
Emma, a healthy Shih Tzu mix was euthanized to fulfill her late owner's dying wish that the dog be put down -- and then laid to rest with her.
Montgomery Sees Record Breaking Tourism Growth with Travel Expenditures Near $1 Billion According to Alabama Tourism Department Report
Travelers spent $972 million and were responsible for 13,817 jobs last year in Montgomery County, according to a report conducted for the Alabama Tourism Department by Montgomery economist Dr. Keivan Deravi. That figure represents a 15.5 percent increase in traveler spending on hotels, restaurants, shopping and transportation from 2017, the largest ever increase in traveler spending of any major Alabama county.
Baytown Early Head Start/Head Start Officially Open New Location Under One Roof
Harris County Department of Education Head Start celebrates the opening of its new 20,000-square-foot facility on about 3 acres in Baytown with a ribbon cutting. The facility will house Early Head Start and Head Start under one roof.
Houston Symphony to Receive $25,000 Grant
National Endowment for the Arts Acting Chairman Mary Anne Carter has approved more than $80 million in grants as part of the Arts Endowment’s second major funding announcement for fiscal year 2019. Included in this announcement is an Art Works grant of $25,000 to the Houston Symphony to support the Community-Embedded Musicians (CEM) initiative. Art Works is the Arts Endowment’s principal grantmaking program. The agency received 1,592 Art Works applications for this round of grantmaking, and will award 977 grants in this category.
Have Hearing Problems? It’s Time to do Something About It - May is National Better Hearing Month
Health care professionals want residents of Fairfax County and beyond to listen to a friendly reminder: if you’re having hearing problems, it’s time to do something about it. And what better time is there than May, during Better Hearing Month.
Statement on the Shooting Death of Pamela Turner by a Baytown Police Officer
Jackson Lee: “I stand with the family of Pamela Turner. We must get to the truth, the facts and we will not relent until justice is served. The circumstances surrounding Ms. Turner’s death are shocking and I demand a state and federal inquiry into her death. First, what predicate did the officer involved have in detaining Ms. Turner? Why were no efforts made to deescalate the controversy so that it did not end in a loss of life? And, if Ms. Turner was known to law enforcement in prior dealings, did they not also know about her mental state? In recent months, we have seen too many instances of these types of killings.”
Mayor Turner Releases First Campaign TV Ad
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has released the first television ad of his 2019 mayoral campaign.
Rev. Al Sharpton to deliver eulogy at funeral of Pamela Turner, who was killed by police in Texas this month
Rev. Al Sharpton, civil rights leader and founder of National Action Network (NAN), will deliver the eulogy at the funeral of Pamela Turner, a Black woman shot and killed by a police officer on May 13 outside an apartment complex in Baytown, TX. Turner suffered from schizophrenia.
Monday, May 20
The president gripes about Fox's news anchors, showing his disregard for journalism
According to President Trump's own Twitter feed, he detests seeing Democratic candidates on his favorite television channel.
Trump eyes Biden as he ramps up reelection bid with Pennsylvania rally
President Donald Trump is set to rally his supporters Monday in central Pennsylvania, a key battleground state that has been flashing warning signs for Trump's reelection campaign.
A Minnesota woman donated her kidney to a firefighter who rushed to help her daughter after a seizure
When Becca Bundy's young daughter was having a seizure at home, volunteer firefighter Bill Cox was the first person to help. Two years later, the Minnesota woman was able to offer a lifesaving thank you, by giving him one of her kidneys.
Father of slain CIA officer calls for investigation of comments by 'American Taliban' fighter ahead of release
The father of a former CIA officer killed in Afghanistan in 2001 has formally petitioned for an investigation of extremist comments allegedly made in prison by American Taliban fighter John Walker Lindh, who is scheduled to be released later this week.
Reese Witherspoon gives an update on 'Legally Blonde 3'
Fans of Elle Woods can get ready for another explosion of all pink everything at the movies.
California man to plead guilty to stealing endangered ring-tailed lemur
A California man has agreed to plead guilty to theft after he admitted taking a critically endangered ring-tailed lemur from the Santa Ana Zoo, according to a Department of Justice news release.
'After 7' artist Melvin Edmonds, brother of Babyface, dead at 65
R&B singer Melvin Edmonds, a member of the group After 7 and brother of superstar Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, has died at 65.
'Game of Thrones' finale sets new viewership record
The final episode of "Game of Thrones" brought in a series record of 19.3 million viewers.
White House blocks former counsel Don McGahn's testimony to House committ-
Former White House counsel Don McGahn will not appear Tuesday before the House Judiciary Committee, defying the committee's subpoena and setting the stage for another contempt vote to retaliate against the Trump administration for rejecting the demands of Congress.
Why Justin Amash is particularly vulnerable to a primary challenge
Michigan Republican Rep. Justin Amash made news this weekend when he declared that President Donald Trump has "engaged in impeachable conduct."
'American Idol' crowns new winner
On Sunday night Laine Hardy triumphed over fan and judge favorite Alejandro Aranda to become the winner of Season 2 of ABC's "American Idol."
Let's praise Robert F. Smith -- and heed the problem his donation has laid bare
While considering the incredible generosity of billionaire philanthropist Robert F. Smith, who announced during a commencement speech that he'd be creating a program to pay off the student loans for every student in Morehouse College's class of 2019, you should also think about this: according to statistics from the Department of Education, 99% of borrowers have been rejected by a federal student loan forgiveness program designed to spur public service and reduce the nation's mountain of student loan debt.
A billionaire will pay off debt of Morehouse College's 2019 graduates. Here is what that gesture means
Billionaire investor Robert F. Smith's commitment to pay off the student loan debt for graduates of the historically black Morehouse College covers millions of dollars, the school said.
Morehouse College grads are surprised by a billionaire's promise to pay off their student loans
Morehouse College seniors got a surprise Sunday when billionaire investor Robert F. Smith announced during his commencement speech that he would pay off the student loan debt for the historically black college's graduating class.
Friday, May 17
Chevrolet Partners with America’s Black Publishers to Help HBCU Students Discover the Unexpected
Since 2016, General Motors Chevrolet brand and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) have partnered to provide deserving HBCU students with the exciting opportunity to “Discover the Unexpected” about themselves and their communities via a journalism fellowship program.
State Graduation Rate Up Overall and Among African Americans
Louisiana's four-year high school graduation rate has surpassed 80% for the first time, and the graduation rate for African American students in the state has — for the first time — surpassed the national average, state education officials said Wednesday.
Groups Bringing National Reparations Debate to Detroit
Two national organizations pushing for federal legislation on reparations for descendants of African American slaves are bringing their agendas and messages to Detroit.
“A Craftsman’s Legacy” by Eric Gorges
Necessity is not the mother of invention. Childhood. There you are: that’s the mother of invention. When you were a kid, if you didn’t have something and you didn’t have the funds to buy it, you cobbled it together from whatever you could find – and it worked. But have you lost that initiative, the imagination, the joy in creating? As in “A Craftsman’s Legacy” by Eric Gorges, do you need to return to working with your hands?
Competitive Sports Can Improve Quality of Life at Any Age
Are you an older adult looking for some inspiration to stay physically active? In June, the 2019 National Senior Games presented by Humana will gather a record number of more than 13,700 athletes aged 50 and over to compete in 20 medal sports.
Bank Calls Police On Black Mayor in His Own City
Mayor Richard Thomas discussed how staff at JP Morgan & Chase summoned the police on him, his staff member, and a Mount Vernon Police detective as the Mayor sought to deposit a six figure check and get access to the City’s online banking records
Latin Women’s Initiative Plans to Spice Up Houston
Latin Women's Initiative is a membership organization committed to empowering and supporting Latin women and children in need through financial support, volunteerism and community resources.
Beyonce Reportedly Made $300 Million From Her Uber Investment Despite Shares Plummeting
Uber went public last week and their shares have been plummeting ever since.
Disney Is Taking Full Control of Hulu
Disney's takeover of Hulu is just about complete. Comcast on Tuesday agreed to sell its ownership stake in the streaming video service to Disney.
Walmart Ups the Delivery Game With Next Day Shipping
Walmart is rolling out free next-day delivery on its most popular items, increasing the stakes in the retail shipping wars with Amazon. The nation's largest retailer said Tuesday it's been building a network of more efficient e-commerce distribution centers to make that happen.
How Choice Hotels Is Putting Its Weight Behind Black Women Ownership
A new survey by Mandala Research shows that African American travelers are a significant travel group who contributed about $63 billion to the U.S. travel and tourism economy in 2018.
96 Charged in Immigrant Marriage Scheme That Provided Fake Wedding Albums
Nearly 100 people were charged in connection with what federal prosecutors described as the largest sham marriage scheme ever documented in the Houston area.
Add Fruits, Veggies to Meals for Plant-Forward Nutrition
Adding more fruits and vegetables is one of the simplest ways to make at-home meals healthier for your family.
Our Schools Have Become Warzones, Our Children at the Front Lines: Question Is, When Are We, ‘The Adults, ‘ Going to Join Them?
To be clear: this is not an attack, rather a light that, hopefully, sparks a sense of urgency in adults across this nation to step up to the front lines of this war against increasing gun violence in our schools. Our children are already there.
Texas Senate Removes Exception That Allows Abortion After 20 Weeks
The Texas Senate passed a bill on Tuesday that would ban abortions on the basis of the sex, race or disability of a fetus, and criminalize doctors who perform what opponents call “discriminatory abortions.”
Nipsey Hussle’s Estate Sued
Rapper Nipsey Hussle who was as noted for his business acumen as he was for his music, apparently died in debt to a music company, which now wants his estate to cough up the money they claim he owed them.
Texas Southern to Recognize James Prince with Honorary Degree
Houston native and legendary entrepreneur/music mogul James Prince will receive an honorary doctorate degree from Texas Southern University during Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 18, 2019.
Tiffany Haddish Is Readyyy for Kids Say the Darndest Things Reboot
Tiffany Haddish has been known to say and do the darndest things—and now she’ll be hosting a show full of kids with that same energy!
Why the 2020 Senate Map Looks Better Than It Actually Is for Democrats
At first glance, 2020 looks like the year where Democrats should take back the Senate majority. They have only 12 seats of their own to defend while Republicans have 22. In years past, that sort of disparity has been a recipe for success for the minority party; more targets to shoot at = more likelihood of success.
Largest Class of African-American Women Set to Graduate From West Point
The United States Military Academy at West Point will see a historic number of African-American women graduate this year.
The Finer Things
Astros hot start has fans reminiscing about the 2017 World Series run.
One thing I heard growing up from my other relatives, family, and friends was that I was spoiled. Being the first-born child actually comes with some perks, but I digress. Houstonians over the last three years must feel like spoiled kids when it comes to the Astros because they have become accustomed to the team being in first place come this time of the year.
Texas Among Most Vulnerable to Measles Outbreak
Four Texas counties are among the top 25 in the nation identified as being most at risk for a measles outbreak, according to a new study.
‘Empire’ To Get 1 More Season On Fox Amid Schedule Shake-Up
“Empire” will return for its final season this fall on Fox — with Jessie Smollett a question mark — and should count itself lucky.
Mayor Vows No Layoffs After Prop B Is Ruled Unconstitutional
A state district judge has ruled Proposition B unconstitutional. District Court Judge Tanya Garrison issued her ruling saying the voter-approved measure granting pay parity to firefighters with the Houston Police department, violated Texas Local Government Code and the Texas Constitution.
Texas School District Moving to Four Day School Weeks
Officials in the Dime Box ISD recently decided to move to a four day school week starting next school year.
65 Years After Brown v. Board of Education
This week marks the 65th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, the unanimous Supreme Court decision that outlawed apartheid in America, declaring segregated schools "inherently unequal" and unconstitutional.
Texas Police Officer Shot and Killed a Woman During Arrest Attempt
A shaky cell phone video captured the moments before a Texas police officer shot and killed a woman who claimed she was pregnant. A family member identified the woman as Pamela Shantay Turner.
Kaylah Sharve’ Is a Star On the Rise
Kaylah Sharve has to pinch herself these days to make sure she is not dreaming. The 20-year-old is having the time of her life living out the things she has imagined herself doing for years. As part of the hottest new female group, Citizen Queen, Kaylah is growing her fan base, traveling on a 45-city tour, and celebrating her new recording contract.
Lovell’s Food For Thought: The Failure to Truly Address Health Inequities in America
"If you always do what you've always done, you will always get what you always gotten."
I often use a quote by Mom’s Mabely. It states the following: "If you always do what you've always done, you will always get what you always gotten." The science of the Twentieth and now the 21st Century, as it pertains to addressing the health of all Americans, will continue to not work if we continue to highlight discoveries without focusing on the delivery and involving the community, especially communities of color at every stage of the process. If we continue to use the same criteria as we did in this century we will be reading similar editorials from the AMA in the next decade. The signs have been there for more than three decades now, telling us that what we are doing is not working. The question now is: What are we going to do about it? Are we going to continue along the same path? Or, are we going to try something different, realizing that health along with not solve problem of health disparities? This opinion piece and the recent article in the American Journal of Public Health says we have yet to realize this truth (https://ajph.aphapublications.org/toc/ajph/109/S1). Having been at this for almost four decades, will I see a similar special edition in by five decade?
Wednesday, May 15
Have Too Many Bad Habits? Here Are 6 Ways To Create Good Ones
It’s said that we become our habits. In some cases that is not a good thing; bad habits prevail among many Americans. One report found that over 70 percent of US adults have at least one unhealthy behavior associated with chronic health problems.
Tony Buzbee Comments On Latest Prop B Ruling
This morning, during the weekly City Council meeting, Mayor Turner announced that a state district judge ruled Proposition B unconstitutional.
How To Ditch The Techie Jargon And Improve Your Organization’s Cybersecurity
An office memo that tosses around terms like DRM, botnet, FTP, spear phishing and worm could be a quick, easy read for the head of the IT department.
Tuesday, May 14
Tim Conway, star of the 'Carol Burnett Show,' dies at 85
Actor and comedian Tim Conway, best known for his work on "The Carol Burnett Show," died on Tuesday morning in Los Angeles, according to his publicist.
Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am Is Out In Theaters June 21, 2019
TONI MORRISON: THE PIECES I AM is out in theaters June 21, 2019
Check out the new trailer for Magnolia Pictures upcoming documentary, TONI MORRISON: THE PIECES I AM, releasing in theaters on Friday, June 21st.
Houston Sailor Serves in Atlantic Aboard USS Carney
Fire Controlman 1st Class Alexander Perez, from Houston, reloads a phalanx close-in weapons system aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) during Formidable Shield 19, May 11, 2019.
Manchester City braced for possible ban from $1.5 billion Champions League
Investigators from European football's governing body will meet Thursday to decide whether Manchester City will be banned from competing in the lucrative Champions League, according to a member of the investigatory chamber.
Steve Bullock: Defeating Trump is only the first step
I'm Steve Bullock and I'm running for president. I know I'm not the first person to say those words recently. And with so many other candidates in the race, some folks have asked me, "What took you so long?"
17th annual ‘Ride of Silence’ to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured on public roadways
Join the cause this Wednesday, May 15, for the 17th annual ‘Ride of Silence’ to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured cycling on public roadways.
Zimbabwe sells elephants to China and Dubai for $2.7 million
Zimbabwe made $2.7 million from the sale of more than 90 elephants to China and Dubai, according to a spokesman for the country's wildlife agency.
Joe Biden's early state polling looks more like those of past winners than losers
Former vice president Joe Biden is enjoying a large lead in national primary polls. Primaries, of course, aren't all conducted at once, but rather are held in a sequential fashion, with the early contests of Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina being pivotal. Indeed, many national primary polling frontrunners first started showing weakness in early state polling.
WhatsApp reveals major security flaw that could let hackers access phones
WhatsApp has revealed a vulnerability in its system that could have allowed hackers access to its users' phones, with a London-based human rights lawyer possibly among the targets.
CIA, FBI, Director of National Intelligence working with Attorney General Barr to review Russia probe origins
Attorney General William Barr is working closely with the CIA to review the origins of the Russia investigation and surveillance issues surrounding Donald Trump's presidential campaign, according to a source familiar with the matter, broadening an effort that the President has long demanded to involve all major national security agencies.
Here's why Lisa Kudrow doesn't watch 'Friends' reruns
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the hit comedy series "Friends," but at least one of the stars will not be binge-watching it in celebration.
4 dead and 2 missing after small planes carrying cruise passengers collide in Alaska
At least four people are dead after two floatplanes carrying cruise ship passengers collided in flight Monday afternoon near Ketchikan, Alaska, according to the US Coast Guard.
Elizabeth Warren rejects Fox News town hall invite, slams network's 'hate-for-profit' model
Sen. Elizabeth Warren announced Tuesday morning that she is rejecting an invitation from Fox News to participate in a town hall with the network, slamming the outlet as a "hate-for-profit racket that gives a megaphone to racists and conspiracists."
Tiger Woods hit with lawsuit after employee dies in car crash
The family of a Florida man who purportedly was drunk when he crashed his car is suing Tiger Woods, his girlfriend and his restaurant company, saying they should have prevented the man from drinking too much and driving to his death.
Is this the world's most expensive cup of coffee?
Coffee aficionados are willing to shell out big bucks for the perfect cup of coffee. But Californians may be taking it to the next level.
The Statue of Liberty has a new museum -- and a podcast
Since making her American debut in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has become one of the world's most famous attractions.
IPhone owners can sue Apple for monopolizing App Store, Supreme Court rules
A group of iPhone owners who accuse Apple of violating US antitrust rules can sue the company, the Supreme Court ruled Monday. They claim Apple's App Store is a monopoly.
Amazon will pay $10,000 and 3 months' salary to help workers start delivery businesses
Amazon wants its employees to quit their jobs and create their own delivery businesses. It turns out that's an expensive proposition. So Amazon is upping the ante.
3 production companies say they won't film in Georgia after abortion law signed
Hollywood has been outspoken against a controversial Georgia abortion law, and now the heads of three production companies are saying they will not film in the state.
Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli 'just wanted a good education for their kids'
Actress Lori Loughlin and her husband, Mossimo Giannulli, maintain they are innocent of the charges against them in the college admissions scandal.
Missy Elliott, Alex Lacamoire and Justin Timberlake can now call themselves doctors
Fresh-faced college seniors aren't the only ones being honored this graduation season.
Fans may have caught another 'Game of Thrones' editing error -- but not in the episode
Jaime and Cersei Lannister shared a poetic reunion on this week's "Game of Thrones" -- but the day after the final season's fifth episode aired, fans spotted something not quite as magical.
Melissa McCarthy is replacing Steve Harvey on 'Little Big Shots'
Steve Harvey is losing another one of his gigs. On the heels of the news that his daytime talk show, "Steve," has been canceled, NBC has announced that Melissa McCarthy will replace Harvey as the host of "Little Big Shots."
Diverse Coalition of Students and Community Organizations Ask to Intervene in Suit to Defend Expanded Access to Elite New York City Public Schools
LatinoJustice PRLDEF, LDF, ACLU, and NYCLU File Motion to Intervene to Allow Students and Advocacy Groups to Join the Defense of Efforts to Improve Racial Equity at Specialized High Schools
Court Orders Expansion of Spanish Language Access in Florida for Upcoming Elections
Today, Judge Mark Walker, the Chief U.S. District Judge in Northern Florida, issued a court order granting a preliminary injunction requiring Florida’s Secretary of State and the Supervisors of Elections of 32 Florida counties to take further steps to comply with section 4(e) of the Voting Rights Act.
Meet the Latina From the Bronx Whose Documentary About NYC Yellow Cab Drivers Is a Tribute to Immigrants
Latino Rebels highlights NYC yellow cab drivers documentary. For decades, immigrants arriving to New York City saw in the yellow taxi medallion —which used to give cab drivers exclusive rights to pick up people— their golden ticket out of poverty and into middle class life. But with ride-sharing apps like Uber, the price of the medallion plummeted, sinking the dreams of many along with the price.
Rape And Kidnapping Trial Begins For Ex-NFL Star Kellen Wins
Jury selection kicked off Monday in the trial of ex-NFL tight end Kellen Winslow II, who faces charges of rape, kidnapping and indecent exposure, CBS reports.
Beto O’Rourke Hires Obama Delegate Guru Jeff Berman
Beto O’Rourke has hired one of the masterminds behind Barack Obama’s unlikely 2008 primary victory, part of the Democratic candidate’s efforts to balance his freewheeling style with the organizational demands of a presidential campaign.
Black Teen, Now 32-Years Old, Still Serving 11 Life Sentences in Prison For Crime He Didn’t Commit
Juan Rayford Jr. was 17-years old when he was wrongfully accused of attempted murder and ultimately sentenced with life imprisonment despite his non-involvement in the crime. Now at 32-years old, Rayford Jr. has spent 15 years of his life behind bars and he still dreams that he could one day be free.
Man Awarded $60K After Being Arrested for Refusing to Give Police His Name During Traffic Stop
Robert Mitchell, a Black man who filed a lawsuit against the Bakersfield Police Department for allegedly making an “unconstitutional arrest” on him during a traffic stop two years ago, has reached a settlement with the city of Bakersfield which agreed to pay him $60,000.
Once Homeless, Black Doctor Tells His Story of Beating the Odds in New Film
Dr. Tommy Watson is sharing his empowering life story in a new film called Resilient that is scheduled to start filming in Charlotte, NC in the summer of 2019. Based on his award-winning book A Face of Courage: The Tommy Watson Story, the film tells the story of Watson’s inspiring journey from homelessness, abandonment and childhood neglect to successful Big Ten football player with hopes for the NFL and later a fulfilling career as a school principal and motivational speaker.
Physicist Walter E. Massey to Receive Vannevar Bush Award from National Science Foundation For Contributions to Public Service and Technology
The National Science Board (NSB) recently announced that Dr. Walter E. Massey will receive the prestigious Vannevar Bush Award. The award honors science and technology leaders who have made substantial contributions to the welfare of the nation through public service in science, technology, and public policy.
Kenya Barris to Write, Star in Netflix Comedy Series ‘Black Excellence’ Opposite Rashida Jones
According to Variety.com, since signing a lucrative overall production deal with Netflix and after years at ABC, “Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris has lined up his first series for the streaming giant.
Retired Justice John Paul Stevens says he hopes Trump 'won't do too much damage' to the courts
John Paul Stevens -- an outspoken retired justice -- said he hoped President Donald Trump would not damage on the nation's courts "too much" and waved off nascent proposals by Democrats to add more seats to the Supreme Court.
Top federal prosecutor in Connecticut to review origins of Russia probe
The top federal prosecutor in Connecticut is assisting Attorney General Bill Barr in his review of the genesis of the 2016 Russia investigation, according to a source familiar with the review.
What's behind the absurd gamble on women's rights and health
Last week, Georgia joined the ranks of states in a sudden rush to ban abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, as early as six weeks after conception -- before a woman may even know that she is pregnant. Kentucky, Mississippi, and Ohio passed similar laws this year. Alabama is taking its fight against choice even further, with a bill that not only bans abortions but makes it a crime for a doctor to perform an abortion.
Oil prices jump after Saudi Arabia reports drone attack on pumping stations
Oil prices climbed on Tuesday after Saudi Arabia reported "armed drones" attacked two pumping stations in the kingdom, underscoring rising tensions in the Middle East.
It's Trump vs. Xi in the China trade war -- and it's personal
Neither Donald Trump nor Xi Jinping can afford to blink. A personal duel between two rival presidents could ensure that the escalating trade war across the Pacific may last longer than anyone expected.
NYT: White House reviews plan that would send up to 120,000 US troops to Middle East
Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan presented a military plan at a meeting of top national security officials last week that would send as many as 120,000 US troops to the Middle East in the event that Iran strikes American forces in the region or speeds up its development of nuclear weapons, The New York Times reported Monday.
Reps. Omar and Schakowsky: We must confront threat of white nationalism -- together
Just over two weeks ago, we watched in horror after a man walked into Chabad of Poway synagogue in California and opened fire on worshippers, killing 60-year-old Lori Gilbert Kaye and injuring three others. The attack on the synagogue took place on Shabbat, the holiest day of the week, and Acharon Shel Pesach -- the final day of Passover.
A global software outage caused delays at JetBlue's check-in counters
Lines at JetBlue were long at some airports Tuesday morning after a global outage of the airline reservation system Sabre, a JetBlue statement said.
Monday, May 13
Hip fractures are deadly for many seniors
The news an elderly relative has broken a hip tends to sound alarm bells, perhaps more than breaking another bone would. That's because a hip fracture dramatically increases an older person's risk of death.
Actress Felicity Huffman cries as she pleads guilty in college admissions scandal
Felicity Huffman broke down crying before a federal judge Monday after she pleaded guilty to paying $15,000 to a fake charity that facilitated cheating when her daughter took the SATs for college admission.
The Harvard law professor representing Harvey Weinstein is being removed as a faculty dean
A Harvard University law professor who faced criticism on campus for representing Harvey Weinstein in his sexual assault trial is being relieved of his position as faculty dean of an undergraduate house.
British broadcaster ITV has suspended "The Jeremy Kyle Show" and launched a review of the long-running program after a guest died shortly after taping an episode.
A little more than a week ago, the man who was watching 4-year-old Maleah Davis told police he, the young girl and her brother were abducted by three Hispanic men who knocked him unconscious. When he awoke on the side of a road after nearly 24 hours, he said the young girl wasn't there.
Britain's Jeremy Kyle Show taken off the air after death of guest
British broadcaster ITV has suspended "The Jeremy Kyle Show" and launched a review of the long-running program after a guest died shortly after taping an episode.
Alex Trebek opens up about cancer battle
Even as he battles pancreatic cancer, Alex Trebek still has his sense of humor. "I've got stage 4 cancer, okay," the "Jeopardy!" host joked to CBS Sunday Morning. "Not stage 1, for sissies, that's just beginner's cancer. I've got advanced!"
YouTuber James Charles has lost nearly 3 million subscribers since his feud with Tati Westbrook
James Charles started the week flying high at the Met Gala. Now his career seems to be in free fall.
Kate Gosselin returning to TV with dating show
After an almost a decade of being single, Kate Gosselin is ready to find love again.
Urban Scooter Collisions: What Riders and Motorists Need to Know
Dockless scooters have rapidly gained popularity in cities across the US, providing people with an inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to get around, but many people complain they are a nuisance and a hazard.
Hogg Foundation Awards $11.5 Million in Grants to Address Well-being in the Houston Area
The Hogg Foundation has awarded $11.5 million in grants to 11 organizations for the Communities of Care initiative. The initiative supports collaborative approaches to well-being in the Houston Metropolitan Statistical Area. The grants will strengthen efforts to transform the environments where people live, learn, work, play and pray, bringing a population health approach to support resilience, mental health and well-being for all members of a community, and with a focus on children and youth of color and their families.
Mayor Turner Announces Entertainment for CITGO Freedom Over Texas - July 4th
Featuring a Space City Experience That’s Out of this World
This year, guests will celebrate more than America’s Freedom at the city’s signature Independence Day event, as this July marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. CITGO Freedom Over Texas has partnered with NASA’s Johnson Space Center, to bring an exclusive Space City Experience to all patrons at the event featuring its history and what the future holds for intergalactic exploration and travel. The signature area will include an opportunity to be up close and personal with astronauts, robotic demonstrations, virtual reality fieldtrips to the International Space Station, the Space Exploration Vehicle (SEV), NASA’s Destination Station, and other NASA assets and activities.
Houston Sailor Serves in Atlantic Aboard USS Carney
Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Chance Vaughan, from Houston, Texas, gives a brief to the flight deck crew before flight operations aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) during Formidable Shield 19, May 12, 2019. Formidable Shield is designed to improve allied interoperability in a live-fire integrated air and missile defense environment, using NATO command and control reporting structures. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Fred Gray IV/Released)
AARP Applauds Texas House Approval of Prescription Drug Price Transparency Bill
AARP Texas Director Urges Senate Passage of HB 2536
The Texas House of Representatives has taken a major step to address the skyrocketing cost of prescription drug prices that are making it harder for Texans to afford the medicines they need.
Trump escalates trade fight, drawing retaliation from Beijing
President Donald Trump is digging in on his renewed China trade war, warning Monday that the fight "will only get worse" if Beijing retaliates -- just as Chinese officials announced a fresh set of tariffs on $60 billion of US exports.
'Game of Thrones' Season 8, Episode 5 recap: Just one long 80-minute 'AAAAHHH!!!'
If someone asks you about what happened this week on that little dragon show you watch, you are more than allowed to just scream at full volume for an hour and 20 minutes. Because that's what this episode was. Just one, long 80-minute "AAAAHHH!!!"
Bill Nye says it's time to grow up and realize the planet is on fire
Bill Nye wants to remind you of the seriousness of global warming and he's not mincing words.
Sheriff: Wife calls police after finding images of naked family members on husband's phone
A Genesee County man could face decades in prison after cameras were found in his master bathroom.
Doris Day was much more than 'America's virgin'
Doris Mary Ann Kapplehoff of Cincinnati, Ohio, always insisted she was never as wholesome and pristine as her show biz alter ego Doris Day was made out to be in the movies.
Family uses tattoos to create living tapestry of memories
Morgen Wulf has always celebrated major life events with tattoos. When her son left the neonatal intensive care unit, she got a tattoo of a cartoon bear to mark the occasion.
Officer who helped take down Eric Garner before he said, 'I can't breathe,' to learn whether he keeps his job
The New York police officer accused of using a banned chokehold in the 2014 death of Eric Garner administered "a lethal dose of prohibited force" for no reason, as Garner posed no danger, a lawyer said Monday in a disciplinary hearing.
Nigerian police arrested 65 women in a raid. Some of the women say officers raped them
In a sparsely decorated room in Nigeria's capital city of Abuja, seven women are seated in a row, their backs turned to the assembled media to remain anonymous.
Woman has 7th child, first boy on Mother’s Day
Mothers around the world are celebrated each May. In Bakersfield, one mom says it’s a holiday she’ll always remember as the day she went into labor with a healthy eight-pound baby, Isaac Xavier, at Memorial Hospital.
Donald Trump's strange, startling weekend on Twitter
It was a rainy, damp weekend in Washington. Not good golf weather. But very, very good weather to sit in your house and tweet. Which is exactly what it appears President Donald Trump did.
Supreme Court continues open feud over last-minute death penalty appeals
An ongoing feud between Supreme Court justices over the application of the death penalty escalated again on Monday as the justices filed opinions in two death penalty cases and took the rare step of issuing public explanations to explain their bitter divide.
Uber plunges again -- now about 17% below IPO price
Uber was already the biggest high-profile IPO bust in recent memory. And it only got worse on Monday.
Cardinals Sign Top Pick Murray To Four-Year Deal
The Arizona Cardinals have signed Kyler Murray in time for their rookie minicamp. Arizona signed the No. 1 overall draft pick to a four-year contract Thursday worth about $35 million with a team option for a fifth. It includes a signing bonus of more than $23 million.
Friday, May 10
Improving the Lives of Mothers Through Health and Wellness
Falling is a part of life. Staying down is not. Before 2013, LoRon White was always in the game despite his small stature. He had big dreams of playing basketball professionally. However, an injury of a ruptured tendon in his leg would stifle those dreams. That could have taken him out but White turned tragedy into triumph. After his surgery to repair his leg, White began intense therapy and started working on his physique.
Highlight: Mental Health Is No Longer Taboo, Bobbye Wagner Of The Pink Canopy Documentary Talks The Greatest Lesson Her Mom Would Ever Teach
Bobbye Wagner, Founder of The Pink Canopy talks about her and siblings growing up during an era where mental health was taboo. In the somewhat chilling and emotional documentary, the riveting story of courage sheds light on mental illness in the African American community.
“The Code of the Righteous Warrior” by Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller
These days, you just don’t know what to expect. Things used to be laid out nice and easy: a real man took care of business, he settled disagreements with his fists, and he was head of his household. But it’s a new world now with new expectations, and in “The Code of the Righteous Warrior” by Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, you’ll know how to get through it.
For the First Time, Miss USA, Miss America and Miss Teen USA Are All Black Women
For the first time, America's top beauty pageants -- Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America -- have crowned black women as their winners at the same time.
White Privilege and the Law: Will the Scales Ever Balance for People of Color?
To be clear: white privilege is severe and pervasive. In almost every facet of American society, there is an invisible infrastructure, which supports the majority. No beef; just facts. White privilege and the law, particularly, was all the buzz on social media last week as news broke that two white men, in separate instances, pled guilty to crimes against teenage girls and will serve no jail-time. Both cases had arguably heinous facts.
Eric Green Brings Color & Style With Style Made Simple
With a career that’s spanned across the globe - and included partnerships with fashion powerhouses like Armani, Burberry, Cole Haan, Gap, J. Crew, Neiman Marcus, North Face and more - former Charming Charlie Vice President and Executive Creative Director, Eric Samuel Green, has earned a stellar reputation for being a visionary within the industry. And he’s not done yet.
H-E-B Names Winners in 2019 Excellence in Education Awards
On Sunday, May 5, H-E-B announced statewide winners for the 18th annual H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards during an awards ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel in Austin. During the ceremony, H-E-B Chairman and CEO Charles Butt handed out $430,000 in cash awards and grants, and congratulated eight educators, two school districts, one early childhood agency and a public school board for being among the best in Texas. The program has given away more than $10 million in cash and grants to Texas teachers and schools since 2002.
New York Times: Tax Documents Show Trump Businesses Lost More Than $1 Billion in a Decade
President Donald Trump's businesses reported losses of $1.17 billion from 1985 to 1994, The New York Times reported Tuesday, citing information from tax documents from those years.
Missed Opportunity
Rockets lose crucial Game 5 to the Warriors to fall 3-2 in the series
Famous actor Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther, Creed) not to be confused with the famous basketball legend Michael J. Jordan, turned down a role in a movie I am sure he thinks about and regrets to this day.
Tuskegee Fighter Pilots Visit Houston to Remember the Historic Flight Squadron
Two World War II heroes are visiting Houston on Monday evening. Retired Lieutenant Colonels Harry T. Stewart Jr. and Alexander Jefferson flew numerous combat missions in Europe as part of the Tuskegee Airmen’s 332ndFighter Group, and will appear during a presentation of a documentary about their lives as fighter pilots in the historic squadron.
Sandra Bland Recorded Her Own Arrest in 2015
Newly published video shows the controversial 2015 traffic stop arrest of Sandra Bland from her vantage point, and her family's attorney questions why the footage didn't emerge before now.
Stepfather of Missing Houston Girl, 4, 'Person of Interest' in Her Disappearance
As desperate searchers combed the landscape Tuesday in a wooded area of a Northeast Houston neighborhood where a man told investigators his 4-year-old stepdaughter was abducted last Friday by three men in a pickup truck, police revealed he's now a "person of interest" in her disappearance.
Houston Rapper Trae Tha Truth Helps with Rescues Around the City
ABC13.com reports Houston rapper Trae Tha Truth and his team, the Relief Gang, are out in the streets of Houston searching for people in need of rescue.
Trump's Insatiable Appetite for Regime Change
Push is coming to shove in Venezuela. Trump has decided that the government of Nicola Maduro must go. Senior officials -- led by John Bolton, Trump's super-hawk national security adviser, and Elliott Abrams, stained by his cover-up and lies about death squads in El Salvador and contras in Nicaragua in the 1980s -- boast publicly about their plots for regime change. They have recognized an obscure right-wing Venezuelan politician -- Juan Guaido -- as head of state. They've tightened sanctions again and again, adding directly to the dire suffering of the Venezuelan people. They've encouraged the military to revolt. And when the failure of Guaido's latest coup attempt embarrassed them last week, they've threatened direct military intervention.
Finding the Perfect Gift for Mom
Finding the perfect gift for the woman who has given you everything is daunting. You spend too much money and she’ll say you shouldn't have. You spend too little and you think you have cheapened what she means to you. The experience is enough to make you go crazy but don't. Houston Style Magazine has taken the guesswork out of gift giving by going straight to the source, mothers.
Thursday, May 9
It’s Time to Free Small Businesses from the Ghosts of Wireless Past
For months now, I have been talking about all the good things the New T-Mobile would do for consumers and for the country – and what we will do to spark competition and innovation in the 5G economy. As I’ve shared before, the facts make it clear that keeping the status quo is not just wrong, it’s bad. Really bad. But did you know it can get worse?
Béla Wellness Drinks Launch in LifeCafe
Life Time will be Béla's first national customer
Béla, the Atlanta-based wellness beverage brand, announced today that it will soon be available at LifeCafe fast casual restaurants in Life Time's athletic resort destinations nationwide. Béla will implement a multi-faceted marketing campaign through 2019 to support the launch at Life Time, the nation's premier healthy lifestyle brand.
Houston Native Serves aboard USS John C. Stennis
U.S. Navy Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Kassandra Lopez, from Houston, stencils a life ring aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) in the Atlantic Ocean, May 7, 2019. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) is deployed in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jordan Ripley)
CFPB proposes helping debt collectors instead of consumers: Unlimited text messages, email, and 7 phone calls per week per collector
When it comes to personal finance, multiple issues confront consumers every day. From ever-deepening student debt, to denials on mortgage applications, and small-dollar borrowing known as payday loans that come with legal triple-digit interest rates in 33 states -- all contribute to a series of financial challenges.
Bethune-Cookman University to Remember Alfred Adams During Service of Consecration, Wednesday, May 8, 2019
The Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) campus community is deeply saddened by the loss of Alfred Adams, who passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Adams, a former student-athlete, completed his undergraduate education at B-CU. He was currently enrolled in graduate school at the University.
Big3 Names New CEO
Amit Bajaj Joins the BIG3 as CEO at a Time of Rapid Growth
BIG3 announced today that the professional 3-on-3 basketball league founded by producer, actor and music legend Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz recently added Amit Bajaj as its CEO. His appointment to CEO comes at a time of tremendous growth for the league, which recently announced its broadcast deal with CBS as well as its expansion from eight to twelve teams set to play in a total of 18 cities this summer.
Houston Army Vet, Salon Owner Helping Girls become Entrepreneurs with Free Braiding and Success Workshop Saturday
Houston Girls ages 7-17 can get a head start on launching their own business this Saturday, May 11th thanks to US Army Reserve Veteran and Braids for Hope Founder Jessica Ray.
CVB Honors Partners in Tourism and Recently Retired CEO, Shelley Johnson with Special Guest Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser
The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau (LC/SWLA CVB) honored partners in tourism who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry in Southwest Louisiana as well as recently retired CEO of the LC/SWLA CVB, Shelley Johnson, at the award ceremony held in honor of National Travel & Tourism Week on Tuesday, May 7, at Treasures of Marilyn’s. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser was on hand at the ceremony to deliver the keynote address and assist with awards.
Partial METRORail Shutdown for Emergency Repairs
Immediate repairs are underway on portions of METRORail to address potential hazards involving overhead electrical wires. The Red Line extension from UH-Downtown to the Northline Transit Center along with the Green and Purple lines were shutdown late Wednesday afternoon. Bus shuttles are available along those lines to transport customers. Rail Service along the Red Line between UH-Downtown and Fannin South will not be impacted.
Houston Business Owner Challenges 13-Time Congressional Incumbent
For longer than many of its voters have been alive, Houston’s 18th Congressional District has known one representative. That’s likely to change for the better in 2020 thanks to Dr. Bimal Patel, a native of Houston, a trusted optometrist, and a business owner in the 18th. Dr. Patel—or Bimal, as he prefers to be called—will challenge incumbent Sheila Jackson Lee in next year’s March 3rd Democratic primary.
Single Mother and PhD Student Uses GoFundMe to Help with NASA Internship in Houston
Have you ever been so close to your dreams you could taste it but there was just one thing holding you back? India Jackson of Decatur, Georgia knew that feeling. After being selected to intern for NASA at Johnson Space Center in Houston, Jackson's excitement was dwindled by the costs associated to take the internship.
Five Side Hustles for Digital Hustlers
Given that more than one-third of Americans have a side hustle and more than half of all millennials are supporting themselves with one, too, you might be interested in knowing more ways to hustle. Here are the top five easiest and most fun side hustles that don’t require leaving your house—or desk (shh).
New self-improvement book offers a thoughtful collection of essays based on wisdom gained from life experience
Debuting author Rebecca Meredith shares ‘Lessons in Life’
Debuting author Rebecca Meredith writes about motivational experiences and inspiring true stories from the heart. Taking place in the healing process after losing her mother, Meredith’s self-improvement book titled “Lessons in Life” (published by Lulu) offers a thoughtful collection of essays based on wisdom gained from life experience.
How Americans could unknowingly end up taking black market drugs
Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) recently introduced a bill that would permit Americans to import pharmaceuticals from Canada. The two lawmakers believe their bill will reduce drug costs.
Tuesday, May 7
Governor Abbott Appoints Franz To Texas Lottery Commission
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Mark Franz to the Texas Lottery Commission for a term set to expire on February 1, 2025. The commission controls and supervises the operations of the state lottery and bingo, ensuring that all games are conducted fairly and in compliance with state law.
Beyond the Rhetoric: Congressional Black Caucus – Time for a Game Plan
The new 116th Congress has more Black participation than ever before. There are 55 members of the Congressional Black Caucus. There are two Black elected officials who chose not to belong – Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina and Congressman William Hurd of Texas. They see the Caucus as a Democratic association and they are Republicans. We wish they would reconsider. It is important that the Caucus is bi-partisan.
HMAAC Opens Close to Home: Latinx Art and Identity 2.0
May 11, 2019-August 3, 2019
The Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) is delighted to present Close to Home: Latinx Art and Identity 2.0, an exhibit of work that originated from the Collection of Drs. Harriett and Ricardo Romo of San Antonio.
FBI says it's working with Silicon Valley to stop election meddling
The FBI's relationship with Silicon Valley in tackling foreign influence campaigns targeting the United States has "changed dramatically," FBI Director Christopher Wray told senators on Tuesday, citing what he said was an improvement in cooperation between the agency and Big Tech.
Can Trump be forced to accept electoral defeat?
There have been numerous contested elections in US history, including as recently as 2000, when the Supreme Court essentially called it for George W. Bush.
The secret of why Donald Trump won't release his taxes
On Monday night, as expected, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin informed House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Massachusetts, that he would not be handing over President Donald Trump's tax returns.
Four Hartford students pitch technology idea to Facebook
Four young women from Hartford visited the Facebook headquarters to pitch their tech idea to the social media giant.
Gun in woman's purse fires inside Pasco Publix, husband shot in checkout lane
A man was shot inside a Land O' Lakes Publix on Sunday when a gun inside a purse unexpectedly fired.
CocoCay: Cruise line's $250 million private island opens
Thanks to a $250 million transformation, Royal Caribbean's once-sleepy private island retreat in the Bahamas is offering eye-opening travel amenities to its cruise passengers.
Trump finds anti-immigrant ally in extremist Hungarian Prime Minister
Hungary's hardline nationalist prime minister, whose erosion of checks on his power has led some to describe him as a de facto dictator, will meet President Donald Trump in Washington next week, the White House announced on Tuesday.
Missandei and that 'GoT' scene made Nathalie Emmanuel happy
Well, you can forget about black love on "Game of Thrones."
Don't watch the new 'Spider-Man' trailer if you haven't seen 'Avengers: Endgame' yet
If you are one of the dozen people who has yet to see "Avengers: Endgame," first of all: What are you waiting for?
Amy Schumer welcomes son
Say hello to Amy Schumer's own "royal baby." The actress and comedian gave birth to a son on Sunday night, she announced on Instagram.
New Netflix game show 'Flinch' divides viewers
Torture or competitive fun? That appears to be the debate surrounding the new Netflix series, "Flinch."
Katie Holmes and Jamie Foxx are at least Met Gala official
At the very least Katie Holmes and Jamie Foxx pose well together.
'Wine Country' serves up light comedy from Amy Poehler
There will be wine, laughs and the airing of old grievances in "Wine Country," a light, breezy directorial debut by Amy Poehler, who also produced, worked on the story and co-stars with fellow "Saturday Night Live" alumni. The rudimentary nature of the plot yields a perhaps inevitably episodic feel, leaving fun individual moments, but a movie that's a few bottles short of a case.
Pompeo abruptly cancels trip to Germany
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo abruptly canceled a scheduled trip to Germany, where he was planning to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel "due to pressing issues," the State Department said early Tuesday.
READ: Treasury secretary letter denying House Democrats' request for Trump's tax returns
By CNN (CNN) -- Read the treasury secretary's letter denying House Democrats' request for Trump's tax returns here: cnn.com/2019/05/06/politics/treasury-responds-to-chairman-neal/index.html
British soldier killed by elephant during anti-poaching operation
A British soldier was killed by an elephant during an operation against poachers in Malawi, the UK Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
Stock losses accelerate as Wall Street gets tariff whiplash
US stock market losses accelerated Tuesday morning, as financial markets grapple with the risk of an all-out trade war.
Arsenic in drinking water damages hearts of young adults, study says
Young adults free of diabetes and cardiovascular disease developed heart damage after only five years of exposure to low-to-moderate levels of arsenic commonly found in groundwater. This was the finding of a new study published Tuesday in Circulation, a journal published by the American Heart Association.
Brad Pitt responds to question about reuniting with Jennifer Aniston
It may be time to let it go. Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston have been divorced since 2005 and have married (and divorced) other people since then.
Burlington man says good ‘karma’ led to $250,000 lottery win
Jerry Hughes of Burlington said he was on his way to help raise money for a good cause when “karma” placed into his path a $250,000 lottery ticket.
Climate change is helping spread a fungus that attacks bananas
A fungal plant disease from Asia has been spreading across banana-growing areas of Latin America and the Caribbean since the 1960s. New research suggests that climate change is aiding the spread of this highly destructive plant infection.
Apple and Google remove dating apps FTC says expose children to predators
Apple and Google removed three dating apps from their app stores after the US government said the apps could expose children to sexual predators.
Mitch McConnell argues 'case closed,' time to move on from Mueller report
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell argued Tuesday that it's time to move on from special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation and report, declaring "case closed" as House Democrats continue to investigate and demand the full, unredacted report as well as urge that Mueller himself testify.
Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar released after more than 500 days
Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar under the country's Official Secrets Act for reporting on a massacre of Rohingya civilians have been freed after more than 500 days.
How a North Kansas City 1st grader is taking great strides with a life-threatening diseaseth
Erik Johnson and his classmates have been learning how to make shapes with straws.
Trump tariff threats roil global markets for a second day
The Trump administration is taking stocks on a roller coaster ride. Investors are not pleased.
WHO warns over spread of measles in Europe as 34,000 cases reported in 2 months
Measles outbreaks will continue to spread in Europe without a robust response, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned as it urged countries in the region to vaccinate vulnerable populations.
FBI Director Wray distances himself from Barr's use of 'spying' on Trump campaign
FBI Director Christopher Wray told a Senate panel Tuesday that the bureau is "working to help" Attorney General William Barr as he reviews the origins of the Russia investigation, but distanced himself from Barr's use of the phrase "spying" at a separate hearing last month.
Battle between homeowner and HOA over truck could lead to foreclosure
Andy Lipka loves classic cars. One of his latest obsessions is his 1965 Ford F250 pickup truck.
French man arrives in Caribbean after crossing Atlantic in giant barrel
A French man who has spent more than four months floating across the Atlantic Ocean in a giant orange barrel has arrived at his Caribbean destination.
Monday, May 6
ELOQUII Challenges Unconscious Bias Towards Women Size 14+ with Debut of #MODELTHAT Campaign
State Legislator, An Emmy Award Winning TV Producer, Ultra-Marathon Runner and Army Vet, Among Others, Front the Brand’s First-Ever Advertising Campaign
Macy's Backstage Opens at Macy's Willowbrook
Macy’s welcomes Macy’s Backstage to its location in Willowbrook, on Saturday, May 18. Macy’s Backstage offers fashion-loving customers another way to shop at their favorite store by providing a store-within-store shopping experience featuring significant savings on fabulous finds. The new store will have approximately 16,400 square feet of dedicated retail space and will live on the second level inside the full-line Macy’s.
Children's Museum Raises $87K+ in Golf Tournament
24th ANNUAL SPRING GOLF CLASSIC Children’s Museum of Houston raises more than $87,000 during fundraising tournament Chaired by Bradley Bracewell and William Griffin
The Ensemble Theatre Announces Its 2019-2020 Season
The Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director, Eileen J. Morris, announces the theatre's 2019-2020 season including a commissioned world premiere and five regional premieres packed with drama, comedy and musical performances; and a series of alternative programing, youth initiatives, and fundraising events.
Reynolds HCR 150 Press Release
HCR 150 relates to memorializing the 116th Congress to pass H.R. 40 establishing a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans. Your voices were heard and your concerns are being addressed. Filing this legislation is the next step in the fight. Please urge your representatives to support HCR 150.
Will your fairy tale romance lead to an unhealthy relationship?
Even the most loving relationships can be tough. While it’s normal to have the occasional spat with your significant other, make sure your new relationship doesn’t turn dangerous. Often, you get into a relationship and don’t see the red flags that everyone else sees. Through my nonprofit organization, Unsilenced Voices, I am on a mission to end domestic violence worldwide.
Prairie View A&M Nursing Student in Desperate Need of Brain Surgery
Texas Mother and Daughter Face the Challenge of their Lives in the Midst of Brain Tumor Awareness Mont
DyAnna Tucker, a first-year nursing student at Prairie View A&M University in Texas, managed to complete her second semester of classes this week despite a cyst in her brain that is causing seizures, blurred vision and massive headaches. After being misdiagnosed by two separate doctors, the 19-year-old student was rushed to the emergency room on December 26, 2018, where doctors discovered a pineal gland cyst, about the size of a marble, right in the center of her brain.
Are You Less Of A Man If You Opt For Cosmetic Surgery?
While the stereotype says it is women who worry most about body image, in truth men also are concerned about what they see when they gaze in the mirror.
Houston Native Protects U.S. Navy Forces in the Middle East
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN – Petty Officer 1st Class Chasity Eastland, a Houston native, joined the Navy after speaking with her hometown recruiters and listening to their stories about where they traveled.
Biden takes the fight straight to Trump
Joe Biden kicked off his 2020 presidential bid this week with a video. He looked into the camera and talked about the torch-wielding white supremacists of Charlottesville, Virginia, with an opening argument that aimed to leap over his primary opponents, across the generation gap, straight at President Trump. "We are in the battle for the soul of this nation," he said.
Mary Poppins meets James Bond: Will Meghan and Harry hire a Norland nanny for the royal baby?
Balancing the demands of work and a baby is a challenge for any new parent -- let alone one with the hectic schedule of a British royal.
The royal baby is a boy, Meghan and Harry announce
Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a boy in the early hours of Monday, Buckingham Palace has announced.
Harry and Meghan's new baby: What we know so far
The countdown is over. Meghan and Harry have welcomed a baby boy.
46th annual Daytime Emmy Awards: The winners list
"General Hospital" was a big winner at Sunday's 46th annual Daytime Emmy Awards, which included a tribute to the late "Young and the Restless" actor Kristoff St. John and a standing ovation for "Jeopardy" host Alex Trebek.
Adele embraces self-love while celebrating her birthday
It sounds like Adele is more than ready to leave 30 behind. On Sunday, the singer posted on Instagram in honor of her 31st birthday.
Madonna announces her 'Madame X' tour
Madonna may soon be coming to a city near you. The seven-time Grammy winner announced Monday that she will be going on tour this fall. The tour, named after her upcoming album, "Madame X" is currently scheduled to make its way to three cities with 16 tour dates.
Luke Perry's daughter says he was buried in a mushroom suit
When Luke Perry was laid to rest in Tennessee last month, he was buried in a mushroom suit, according to his daughter, Sophie Perry.
Someone left a coffee cup in a 'Game of Thrones' shot
What's this? Oh, just a coffee cup. A coffee cup on a table in the great hall of Winterfell in the fictional, very coffee-less realm of Westeros.
Missandei and that 'GoT' scene made Nathalie Emmanuel happy
Well, you can forget about black love on "Game of Thrones."
Analysis: Don't use the royal birth to trot out a dangerous myth
It's hard not to get excited. It's like watching the unfolding of a modern-day fairy tale. Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, just gave birth to a boy. The royal baby becomes the "first Afro-American baby born into the royal family," a "gorgeous" symbol of racial progress in the US and Britain.
Global stocks drop after Trump risks 'full-on' trade war with China
President Donald Trump sent shivers through global markets on Monday, with stocks plunging after he threatened new tariffs that would escalate the US-China trade war.
Michigan librarian gets $90,000 after fraud case dismissed
A mid-Michigan librarian is getting $90,000 as part of a settlement after allegations of fraud against her were dismissed.
County libraries work to prevent summer learning loss among young students
As summer vacation inches closer and closer, staff at Pima County Libraries are gearing up for the summer season.
Woman opens up her home for senior and severely ill dogs
Not all heroes wear capes. For senior and severely ill dogs in Idaho and neighboring states, their hero is a Nampa woman named Kimberly Coonis.
Phoenix caregiver training lab available for families and job-seekers
Chances are, at some point you will find yourself caring for an aging family member.
Dow falls as trade war jolts investors
Trade war fears have returned to Wall Street, wiping out a chunk of the stock market's recent surge.
PD: Phoenix teen escapes from window after man tries to break into her home
Police say they've arrested a man on suspicion of breaking into a Phoenix house where a teen girl was home alone on Sunday morning.
Arizona hepatitis A cases reach the hundreds; experts expect more to come
According to health experts, there is a wave of hepatitis A cases in Arizona.
Busy Philipps' E! talk show has been canceled
Busy Philipps might no longer be quite as busy. On Sunday night, the actress announced that her E! talk show, "Busy Tonight," has been canceled.
Former Trump fixer Michael Cohen reports to prison for three-year term
Michael Cohen has completed his transition from presidential fixer to prison inmate.
Florida boy runs with flag in honor of North Carolina K-9 officer killed in line of duty
An officer died in North Carolina, and his sacrifice was felt as far away as the Sunshine State.
Jaylon McKenzie, 8th grade football phenom already counting college offers, shot and killed at Illinois party
Jaylon McKenzie had plans of going to the NFL. The 14-year-old from Belleville, Illinois, was an eighth-grader who already had college offers from University of Missouri and University of Illinois. He was featured in the Future Issue of Sports Illustrated in November 2018 along with five other teen sports stars. He wanted to be a pro star in California, playing for either the Los Angeles Rams or Chargers.
What happens if Donald Trump refuses to admit he lost in 2020?
Speaker Nancy Pelosi recently offered a very blunt assessment of what Democrats need to do in 2020 to ensure a peaceful transition of power in Washington: Win "big."
Cherokee County man arrested for possessing a weapon of mass destruction
A Murphy man has been arrested for possessing a weapon of mass destruction after police found blasting caps at his home.
Why you may have missed Amy Schumer's baby gender reveal
Amy Schumer has slipped the sex of her first child into a message about her activism.
3 burned in fire at San Diego home that allegedly housed marijuana growing operation
Three people were taken to the hospital Sunday after being burned in a fire at a Mira Mesa home that authorities say housed an extensive marijuana growing operation.
AboutThatCar.com: 2019 Ford F150 Limited
Ford’s F-150 Limited is a lot of pickup truck. It is the top of the line model of the bestselling vehicle on the American market f
blink-182 And Lil Wayne Join Forces For Co-Headlining Summer Tour
Multi-platinum, award winning artists blink-182 and Lil Wayne announced they'll be hitting the road together for the first time ever on a co-headlining tour across North America this summer. Special guest Neck Deep will join on all dates. Produced by Live Nation, the massive 38-city outing will kick off June 27th in Columbus, OH and make stops in Toronto, Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, and more before wrapping September 16th in Cincinnati, OH. The tour will see both artists playing indoors and outdoors in arenas and amphitheaters across the U.S. and Canada all summer long.
International Best Selling Author KC Mills Hosted Official “Number Ones” Celebration
On Thursday, May 2, 2019 author KC Mills hosted the official “Number Ones”, celebrating her as one of the top internationally known bestselling authors. The event was held at the beautiful Upstairs Atlanta in Atlanta, GA and served as the official celebration honoring KC Mills as a leading author in the urban literature arena.
Friday, May 3
Houston Health Department Launches Campaign to Build Awareness About PrEP and Treatment as Prevention
The Project PrIDE campaign is the city’s first-ever health campaign directly reaching out to African American and Hispanic members of the LGBTQ community.
Crump, NAACP, NNPA to Demonstrate after Police Brutality Incident in Florida
The Broward County Chapter of the NAACP will lead a march and rally to demand the termination and criminal prosecution of two Florida sheriff deputies who were caught on video punching a 15-year-old African American student and repeatedly slamming the child’s head against concrete pavement.
“Becoming a Veterinarian” by Boris Kachka
The minute the doctor walked into the room, you felt a sense of relief. Soon, the pain will be gone and you might finally get some rest. You could even have a name for the illness causing all these problems. Soon, your ailing pet will feel better, life will return to normal and in “Becoming a Veterinarian” by Boris Kachka, you’ll see what goes into the making of an animal doctor.
Fuel Your Morning with Protein-Packed Recipes
As you prepare to take on the day, one of the most beneficial ways to energize yourself each morning is by fueling your body with the proper nutrients, including protein.
Joe Biden Targets Trump, Touts Union Ties in First Campaign Rally
Joe Biden began his first rally as a 2020 presidential candidate arguing that President Donald Trump had abandoned voters in white, working-class America -- and that reconnecting with those voters is Democrats' path to victory.
GOP, Not Russia, the Greater Threat to Free Elections
We all have heard about WikiLeaks and Russian interference in the 2016 election. The report of Special Counsel Robert Mueller has once more put that on the front pages. Too often lost in the furor, however, is the far more damaging TrikiLeaks -- the tricks and laws used to suppress the vote by partisans, largely Republicans here at home.
Leela James Talks Crossing Genres and Her New EP ‘Are You Ready’
Soul singer Leela James brought her Cali-rooted charm in the form of great weather to Houston in an exclusive in-person interview at The Raven Tower.
Thursday, May 2
Macy's Celebrates Mother's Day With The Perfect Gifts
This Mother’s Day, show Mom just how special she is with a present selected from Macy’s gift guide, a curated selection of great fashion, accessories, beauty and home
This year, Macy’s is making it easy to celebrate Mom and that special mother-figure in your life. Hand-picked selections from the Macy’s Gift List make gift giving thoughtful, stress-free and easy.
