Stories for May 2021

Monday, May 31

Texas is the latest frontier in the voting rights fight

Republican lawmakers in the Lone Star State were moving closer Sunday to imposing a slew of new restrictions on voting until Democrats staged a late-night walkout that left the House short of a quorum.

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Illinois lawmakers pass a bill banning police from deceiving juvenile suspects during interrogations

Police in Illinois could soon be banned from lying to juvenile suspects during questioning.

Tiktok fire challenge puts teen in ICU

A Portland family believes it was a TikTok fire challenge video that is behind why their 13-year-old is now in the intensive care unit with severe burns on her neck and arm.

Kentucky State Police searching for jail escapee

Kentucky State Police are searching for a Calloway County inmate who is on the run after leaving a work release program on Monday.

Texas Democrats celebrate blocking restrictive voting bill, but warn of future threat to voting access

Texas Democrats on Monday cheered their derailment of a restrictive voting bill, while warning of the continued threat of the legislation that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has promised to bring back during a planned special session.

The most ominous part of Texas' voter suppression move

If you cherish US democracy, you should be outraged by what's just happened in Washington, DC, and Texas. In the US Senate, Republicans managed to block a bill to launch an independent inquiry into the deadly January 6 attack on the Capitol. And in Texas, the GOP tried to enact new restrictive voting measures that not only would make it harder for people of color to vote, but would alarmingly make it easier for Texas judges to overturn election results -- something Donald Trump was unable to do after he lost the 2020 election.

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Benefits of avocados: 5 ways they are good for your health

Avocados have become an increasingly popular food in recent years, with people blending the creamy fruit in their smoothies or slicing it to layer on top of toast.

Hawaii Tourism Authority monitoring 'extreme growth' of visitors to the islands

A recent survey found nearly 80% of Americans are ready to travel again. The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has been monitoring what it calls "extreme growth" of visitors locally. In January, about 74,000 people flew into the state.

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Vaccinated Americans are celebrating the 1st big holiday safely without masks. But for some, returning to normal is not so easy

For the first time in over a year, millions of Americans are gathering for a major holiday without masks or physical distancing -- safely.

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Woman connects with family of father's friend using postcards from 80+ years ago

Imagine someone out there held the history of one of your relatives who served their country more than 80 years ago, including details of their travels overseas, their joys, their frustrations.

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Child malnutrition is spiking in Haiti amid pandemic, says UNICEF

Severe acute childhood malnutrition in Haiti is expected to more than double this year as the country deals with rising violence, the coronavirus pandemic, and a lack of access to essential services, UNICEF, the United Nations' children's agency, said in a statement Monday.

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Biden proclaims day of remembrance on 100th anniversary of Tulsa Race Massacre

President Joe Biden on Monday issued a proclamation to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre, when hundreds of Black Americans were killed by a White mob that attacked a prosperous Black neighborhood and burned dozens of city blocks to the ground.

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Demonstrators gather outside Nashville hat store that offered 'not vaccinated' yellow Star of David badgesCn

The owner of a Nashville hat store is being accused of anti-Semitism after announcing the sale of yellow Star of David badges, similar to the ones Nazis forced Jews to wear during the Holocaust, that read "NOT VACCINATED."

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Echoing QAnon forums, Michael Flynn appears to suggest a Myanmar-style coup should happen in the United States

Michael Flynn, former President Donald Trump's first national security adviser, appeared to endorse a Myanmar-style coup in the United States on Sunday.

Florida governor opposes CDC's condition for cruises

Even though cruises have been given the green light to sail again, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing back against the CDC's only condition.

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Read: President Biden's proclamation to mark the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa race massacre

President Joe Biden released a proclamation for a day of remembrance for the centennial of the 1921 Tulsa race massacre, calling on the American people "to reflect on the deep roots of racial terror in our Nation and recommit to the work of rooting out systemic racism across our country."

A 12-year-old was killed and two others were injured in shooting in New Orleans

New Orleans Police are searching for whoever was responsible for the fatal shooting of a 12-year-old girl late Sunday night.

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Las Vegas police release new image of boy found dead on trail

Police have released a new digitally enhanced photo of the boy whose body was found by a hiker on a trail near Las Vegas on Friday morning.

Man took his shootings skills to the front lines in Europe in World War II

Lavone Chandler says he was a good shot, taking aim at squirrels around the melon farm where he grew up near Ruston.

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Christian diet guru and 'Tarzan' actor are among 7 presumed dead in plane crash near Nashville

Seven people are presumed to have died in Saturday's crash of a small jet into a Tennessee lake, including Remnant Fellowship Church founder and Christian diet guru Gwen Shamblin Lara, officials said.

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France and Germany 'seeking full clarity' from US and Denmark on spying report

France and Germany are "seeking full clarity" on a report claiming that one of Denmark's intelligence agencies helped the United States spy on several senior European officials, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday.

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Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open after choosing to avoid media

Tennis star Naomi Osaka said Monday she is withdrawing from the French Open after refusing to speak to the media at the grand slam.

Fort Bend County Judge KP George Honors Mental Health Leaders

Fort Bend County Judge KP George, honored the work of Fort Bend County Director of the Behavioral Health Services Department, Dr. Connie Almeida, and Executive Vice-Chair and Professor of Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Asim Shaw.

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Olivia Rodrigo's 'Sour' debuts at the top of the chart

The 18-year-old only recently stepped onto the music scene, and not only did her recent single, "Good 4 U," skyrocket to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, but now her album is No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

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Kroger Health to Launch #CommunityImmunity $5 Million Giveaway to Encourage Vaccinations

Giveaway starting next week will give people who have received their vaccine from Kroger Health a shot at winning one of five $1 million payouts totaling $5 million in cash prizes and chance to win fr

Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), is launching a new effort to incentivize more Americans to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The #CommunityImmunity giveaway campaign will start next week and provide individuals, including customers and associates, the opportunity to win life-changing prizes like one of five $1 million payouts and 50 chances to win free groceries for a year.

Black Women's Health Imperative Launches Covid-19 Vaccine Campaign to Reach Black Women and Communities of Color with a $400,000 Grant from The Rockefeller Foundation

The Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI) announced that it has received a $400,000 grant from The Rockefeller Foundation to improve vaccination rates among Black women and communities of color. The grant is part of The Rockefeller Foundation's $20 million Equity-First Vaccination Initiative, which supports hyper-local, community-led programs to improve vaccine access and support educational outreach in five cities.

Kahawa 1893: The First Black Woman-Owned Coffee Brand in Trader Joe’s

Brand takes consumer connection to farmer to next level with QR code on packaging that allows buyer to send a tip to the farmer's e-wallet

Kahawa 1893 coffee has made history as the first Black woman-owned coffee brand to be sold at Trader Joe’s. Earlier this month, Kahawa 1893 debuted on shelves in all 200 Trader Joe's stores in California. The brand’s momentous rollout will be followed by expansion into other regions across the nation.

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Popular Streaming Show Conscious Living® Airs Fourth Season on PBS Stations Starting in June

Husband and Wife Team Bianca and Michael Alexander Travel the Globe to Inspire Viewers to Live More Mindfully While Eating, Shopping, Traveling, and more!

The past year in quarantine has forced many of us to think more consciously about the impact everyday choices have on our health, humanity and the sustainability of the planet. As we emerge cautiously from isolation and venture beyond our insulated pods and cocoons, Conscious Living invites viewers to explore the world more mindfully.

Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation Announces Leadership Transition Names Two Interim Senior Executives to Support Organization

Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation (BLMGNF) announced that BLM Co-Founder and current Executive Director, Patrisse Cullors, would be transitioning from her role, and named two Senior Executives to support the organization.

Third Ward Consortium Receives Grant to install new synthetic sports turf surfaces at Jack Yates High School Athletic Field

A consortium of organizations, has received a field valued at $1,250,000 donated by the Houston Texans, Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation-NRG Park, and Hellas Construction, Inc., $250,000 from the NFL Grassroots Foundation Grant, and a $200,000 NFL Foundation Matching Grant through the Houston Texans to install a new synthetic sports turf surface at Jack Yates High School Athletic Field. Rodney Ellis, Harris County Commissioner Precinct One, was instrumental in the designation of Yates as the recipient of the field.

Congressman Al Green, Area Congressional Representatives Urge GLO to Ensure Houston, Harris County Receive Adequate Allocation of Harvey Funds Appropriated by Congress

Congressmembers Al Green – Chairman of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation (TX-09), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), and Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29) held a press conference calling upon the Texas General Land Office (GLO) to ensure the areas worst hit by Hurricane Harvey receive the funds allocated by Congress. Congressman Green released the following statement:

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City of Ali Review

Can we ever get enough of Muhammad Ali? No! And so, another documentary about him is automatically good news on some level. Particularly during these troubled times when stirring up memories of “The Greatest” can connect us back to the best in humanity.

Harris Health Surpasses Half-Million Virtual Visit since Pandemic Start

The COVID-19 pandemic caught healthcare providers worldwide off guard. Almost immediately, doors shuttered to most in-person non-COVID care. Harris Health System, like many providers, quickly ramped up its virtual and telemedicine program—most recently completing nearly 565,000 virtual care visits since the start of the pandemic.

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Emerging R&B Singer-Songwriter MESHAE Releases Visuals To New Single, "KICK IT"

"KICK IT" was written by Meshae Boateng and produced by Kwajo Cinqo and Rob Kelly. "The inspiration behind the song Kick It, is more or so having that constant feeling of wanting to vibe and chill with someone who you are beginning to show interest in and getting to know," mentions Meshae. "You just want to be with them all day," she shares with a laugh.

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Circus Buffet Reopens at Circus Circus Las Vegas

Circus Circus Las Vegas today announced Circus Buffet will reopen to serve guests delectable American comfort food daily for breakfast, brunch and dinner. Starting Saturday, May 29, Circus Buffet will offer a variety of American food including cooked-to-order omelets.

University of Houston’s Humana Institute to Address Health Harming Legal Needs

Medical Legal Partnership Launches at Lone Star Circle of Care Clinic at UH

The University of Houston (UH) College of Medicine and the Humana Integrated Health System Sciences Institute at the University of Houston (Humana Institute) have teamed up with Lone Star Circle of Care, a federally qualified health center, and Lone Star Legal Aid, a free legal aid provider, to launch a medical legal partnership (MLP) at Lone Star Circle of Care’s clinic at UH.

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Three varieties to worry about, control and repel

That familiar buzz and bite are signs that mosquito season in Texas is here, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife entomologist.

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EstrellaTV Breaks with Tradition on Season 24 of Its Hit Show “Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento” with First-Ever All-Female Edition and First-Ever Split of Grand Prize

In Star-Studded Season Finale, Spanish-Language Television Network EstrellaTV, Has Network First, with Ashley Acosta of Houston, Texas and Viririana Sandoval of Tallahasee, Florida Splitting the Crow

EstrellaTV, a leading Spanish-language broadcasting network in the U.S., announced today that its #1 hit show Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento concluded its first-ever all-female special edition with an unprecedented moment in the show’s history, a split of the first-place grand prize between Ashley Acosta of Houston, Texas and Viririana Sandoval of Tallahasee, Florida, who both will share the $100,000 prize.

Harris County Gender Wage Gap Widens

UH Analysis Reveals ‘Double Gap’ for Women of Color

Even as the gender wage gap narrowed nationwide, the average pay disparity between men and women in Harris County widened, according to an analysis of the latest census data by the Institute for Research on Women, Gender & Sexuality (IRWGS) at the University of Houston. Factor in race and ethnicity, and the contrast is even more stark.

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This 'wandering meatloaf' chiton has a rare mineral in its teeth

A rare iron mineral has been discovered in the teeth of a living organism for the first time -- one that bears the pet name "wandering meatloaf."

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Clark Atlanta University Mother and Daughter Graduate in Same Day Commencement Ceremonies

Dr. Lorri Saddler and daughter Jaelyn Rice earned their degrees on the same day from the Atlanta HBCU

"We couldn't have planned an occasion as brilliant as Commencement 2020," said Dr. Saddler.

HESP Union Honored School Bus Drivers and School Staff Lost to COVID-19 Inbox

Event will feature HESP President Wretha Thomas, Rep. Al Green, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, State Rep. Ron Reynolds

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the working poor and communities of color especially hard in Houston. This is especially true for school bus drivers and support personnel who have transported students to school, provided healthy meals and cleaned schools that have COVID-19 hotspots this past year. Many workers and their families have died or still suffer from long-term complications from COVID-19.

Governor Abbott Statement On Election Integrity, Bail Reform Legislation

Governor Greg Abbott tonight issued the following statement regarding election integrity and bail reform legislation:

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Texas Democratic Members Walkout of Texas State House: A Courageous Act for Justice! May 30, 2021

Tonight, the Texas Voters Forward Coalition and Houston NAACP applaud the Texas Democratic Caucus’s action to break quorum in the Texas State House. The organized walkout, by all but one Black Caucus member, served as a peaceful protest against Senate Bill 7.

Largest Innovation Maker Hub in Texas Launches in East End Houston

A new era of US manufacturing is born

East End Houston is on its way to becoming the manufacturing epicenter for the entire country, opening the new East End Maker Hub (EEMH) on June 3, 2021. The 300,000 sq ft. innovation manufacturing facility has a goal to create 1,000 new companies in the next five years and prepare Houston’s 21st-century advanced manufacturing workforce to fill thousands of high paying advanced manufacturing jobs most available to non-degreed adults of all ages.

Fort Bend County Judge KP George Statement On SB7

The Texas House Democrats killed Senate Bill 7 late Sunday night when they took a stand against the most restrictive bill since the end of Reconstruction, which echoed Jim Crow-era policies, by walking off the state House floor, leaving majority Republicans without the quorum they needed to approve the bill before the midnight deadline.

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TSU Board of Regents Selects Sole Finalist for President

“I’m honored to be considered by the full Texas Southern University Board of Regents as the sole finalist for the next president,” said Crumpton-Young. “TSU is a vibrant and treasured institution filled with legacy, excellence and promise. It will be an honor and privilege to serve.”

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John Krasinski responds to Amy Schumer's joke that his marriage to Emily Blunt is for publicity

Amy Schumer took to Instagram to recommend "A Quiet Place Part II," starring Emily Blunt and directed by John Krasinski, who also happen to be married.

China's economy needs workers but its three-child policy may not fix the problem

China's decision to allow people to have more children is a dramatic attempt to head off a worsening labor shortage that could weigh on the country's economic rise.

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Biden honors fallen service members on Memorial Day

President Joe Biden honored those who died serving in the military in Memorial Day remarks at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday.

Is it finally the end for Benjamin Netanyahu, the great survivor of Israeli politics?

A quarter of a century ago, Israelis were stunned when Benjamin Netanyahu narrowly beat Shimon Peres to become Israel's youngest-ever Prime Minister.

Sunday, May 30

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Coline Creuzot Debuts “No One Does It Better” featuring Paul Wall & Lil Keke

Coline Creuzot Debuts Summer Anthem “No One Does It Better” featuring Paul Wall & Lil Keke

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Astros Ace Should Change His Name To, “Zack Greinke, M.D.”

I think that Houston Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke needs to add M.D. to the end of his name this season as he has had to operate from the mound in order to save the bullpen. Greinke pitched eight brilliant innings as the Houston Astros (28-24) was able to salvage the last game of the three-game series against the San Diego Padres (34-20) with a 7-4 victory.

Saturday, May 29

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Astros Can’t Catch A Break As They Drop Another Extra Innings Game To The Padres

There have been two constants for the Houston Astros in the last two games against the San Diego Padres. Extra innings and bullpen failure. Houston dropped their second extra innings game to San Diego by a score of 11-8 at Minute Maid Park.

Friday, May 28

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Astros Outfielder Heads To The IL

The Astros got some bad news on Friday as the team learned that OF Michael Brantley was headed to the 10-day Injured List due to tightness in his right hamstring. His stint was retroactive to May 25.

Houston man sentenced to 40 years for execution-style murder

A 42-year-old Houston man who gunned down a father in front of his 15-year-old son in 2016 was sentenced to 40 years in prison earlier this week, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced Friday.

The Opportunity Project Announces Support for the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre National Day of Learning on June 3, 2021

Virtual event registration is free and open to the public; Underwriting support includes access and learning for community educators and youth workers TULSA, Oklahoma, May 28, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)

The Opportunity Project (The Opp) has announced underwriting support of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre National Day of Learning on Thursday, June 3, 2021, from 9 am until 4:30 pm. As part of its support, The Opp is facilitating a special breakout session focused on the present-day implications for young people and advancing equity in youth-serving fields.

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METRO Increases Bus Service in June

As the Houston region recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, METRO service planners are closely monitoring ridership to ensure supply meets demand. On Sunday, June 6, 2021, a series of METRO route and schedule modifications will take effect on various METRO local bus, Park & Ride and METRORapid routes.

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2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric CUV North American Virtual Premiere

Hyundai will present the all-new 2022 IONIQ 5 to the North American market today at 12:00 p.m. PT (3:00 p.m. ET). IONIQ 5 introduces advanced technology, innovative use of interior space and a new global electric platform. During today’s virtual presentation the following executives will share insights about the IONIQ 5.

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HISD Closing Community Food Distribution Program

With just three weeks left in the school year and public health conditions improving across the city, the Houston Independent School District is preparing to shut down its Neighborhood Supersite community food distribution program.

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Houston Fire Department Receives International Recognition From CFAI

The Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) recommended the Houston Fire Department for accreditation to the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). On May 18, 2021 the CFAI reviewed the recommendation and awarded the HFD accreditation with full honors, recognizing the Houston Fire Department as an Internationally Accredited Organization.

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Mayor Turner Reflects On the Year Following George Floyd’s Murder

This past year has not only shined a spotlight on interactions between law enforcement and people of color, but also underserved or marginalized communities. During the in-depth conversation with Turner about the last year, he spoke about community investment. Born in Houston’s Acres Homes, Turner still lives there, and understands the need.

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The Mark of History Scars Tulsa

Memorial Day marks one year since the murder of George Floyd by the hands of the Minneapolis police. This week also marks the 100-year anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre - a brutal government-aided leveling of a prosperous African American community for which there still has been no accounting and no justice. Few even know about the massacre. It hasn't even been taught in the Tulsa public schools until this year. Although 100 years old, the massacre poses questions of justice and of decency that America cannot avoid.

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Houston Texans, NFL Foundation And LISC Award $450,000 To Renovate And Resurface Jcak Yates High School Athletic Field

“The Houston Texans are proud to work with our partners to support the renovation of the Jack Yates High School Athletic Field,” said Texans Chairman and CEO Cal McNair.

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Texans Wide Receiver Brandin Cooks Focuses On What He Can Control

“For me, it’s one of those things that finishing strong and being able to show that just doing that game in and game out and having that confidence and letting the coaches know that’s just who I am,” Cooks said when asked about the learning experiences from last season.

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Kristen Clarke: Civil Rights New Heroine

If ever one's life was predestined to make a change in the world, it is that of Kristen Clarke. Before she even graduated high school, she challenged the universe to envision "a world with more justice, greater equity, and equal access." She is now in the best position to evoke clarity to that vision. The history maker just became the first African American woman to lead the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division as Assistant General Attorney since its formation in 1957.

Thursday, May 27

Mother wrestles child from arms of attempted kidnapper

A North Carolina woman managed to wrestle her child from the arms of an attempted kidnapper Wednesday afternoon.

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An unarmed man shot and wounded by a Virginia sheriff's deputy has been discharged from the hospital

Isiah Brown, the unarmed man shot and wounded by a Virginia sheriff's deputy in April, was discharged from the hospital Tuesday and will continue his rehabilitation at home, according to his attorney David Haynes of The Cochran Firm.

Graduating rapper escorted from ceremony after throwing thousands of dollars in the air

An Atlanta rapper and high school student 'made it rain' money at graduation but the excitement was short lived as officers swept in to stop the thousands of dollars' worth of celebration.

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Cruise ship gets approval to set sail from the US in June

Celebrity Edge is poised to be the first major cruise ship to sail from the United States in over a year as Covid-19 restrictions continue to ease in the country.

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GOP counters Biden's infrastructure plan with $928 billion offer as President's adviser slams opposition

Senate Republicans made a $928 billion counteroffer to President Joe Biden's sweeping infrastructure proposal Thursday morning as one of the President's closest advisers rallies allies to embrace the White House's proposals.

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Emily Wickersham is leaving 'NCIS'

After almost eight years Emily Wickersham is hanging up her "NCIS" gear.

Dozens of dogs touched down in the Portland area on Wednesday. They made their way from Texas, hoping to start a new life here in the Pacific Northwest with their forever families.

Critical race theory is just that -- a theory -- but the term has been weaponized, with its most extreme critics alleging that merely studying the theory is racist.

Dozens of dogs make trip to find forever families thanks to local rescue group

Dozens of dogs touched down in the Portland area on Wednesday. They made their way from Texas, hoping to start a new life here in the Pacific Northwest with their forever families.

New study examines how staph bacteria goes from harmless microbe to dangerous pathogen

A new study from an international team at the German Center for Infection Research has determined how the bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis goes from a harmless microbe commonly found on skin -- and morph into dangerous strains that cause what are colloquially known as “staph infections.”

Woman arrested after chase that spanned two cities

Police say a woman who was wanted for kidnapping in Colorado is behind bars after a chase that spanned multiple cities in Lincoln County on Wednesday.

'Cruella' is an unexpected treat, with Emma Stone's dark spin on the Disney villain's origins

"Cruella" confounds expectations in mostly delightful ways, particularly for what amounts to a supervillain origin-story prequel inspired by a 60-year-old animated movie. Credit much of that to a twin dose of Emma power -- as in Stone and Thompson -- in a movie that might owe its life to "101 Dalmatians," but which centers around a tasty cat fight.

Longtime White House butler retiring after 47 years of service

After four decades, William "Buddy" Carter -- one of the longest serving White House butlers -- is set to retire at the end of the week, three people familiar with the matter tell CNN.

John Davis, real Milli Vanilli singer, dies from Covid aged 66

John Davis, one of the true singers behind notorious R&B act Milli Vanilli, has died of coronavirus aged 66, according to his family.

It's getting more likely the world will reach a climate tipping point in the next five years

The likelihood that the earth's average temperature will at least temporarily breach a crucial tipping point is rising, according to the world's leading weather and climate organization.

Wednesday, May 26

EPA Announces City of Houston to Receive $600,000 in Brownfields Assessment Funding

The grant awards help underserved communities across the country Build Back Better and address Environmental Justice concerns

Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the city of Houston, Texas, is among the 151 recipients of 154 grant awards totaling $66.5 million in Brownfields funding through its Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) Grants.

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Galleria Dallas to Celebrate Bipoc Designers with Black Fashion Movement Pop Up June 17-20

When Frenchye Harris entered the fashion industry, there weren’t many people who looked like her at the table. There weren’t many models who looked like her. And there certainly wasn’t a showcase for designers who looked like her. Harris met that challenge during the past year by creating the Black Fashion Movement.

Gamma Zeta Boulé Foundation's 16th Annual L.A.M.P. Mentor Program Scholarship Celebration "Dream, Believe, Achieve"

The 16th Annual Gamma Zeta Boulé Foundation L.A.M.P. Mentor Program Scholarship Celebration will be held on Saturday, May 29th, 2021 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, in a VIRTUAL environment.

Second-generation COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial starts at Baylor College of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine investigators are recruiting volunteers for a multicenter Phase 1 clinical trial to examine the safety, tolerability and immune response for different doses of a two-part, investigational COVID-19 vaccine regimen.

Yates HS students to benefit from $250,000 Academy scholarship fund through 2025

Academy Sports + Outdoors is honoring seven high school seniors from the Jack Yates High School class of 2021, with scholarships totaling $50,000 from the new Academy Sports + Outdoors Scholarship Fund. Academy has pledged to award Yates High School with $250,000 by 2025 to encourage and celebrate actions that promote equality within the Houston Independent School District.

How Businesses Can Give Back Meaningfully Without Utilizing Big Bucks

The COVID-19 pandemic curtailed some businesses’ ability to contribute to charitable causes. The crisis affected the bottom lines of U.S. small businesses in particular, many of them on a modest budget to begin with, preventing some of them from being philanthropic or as giving as they would like.

With just three weeks left in the school year and public health conditions improving across the city, the Houston Independent School District is preparing to shut down its Neighborhood Supersite commu

American Heart Association honors EmPOWERED to Serve™ Scholars in appreciation of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

In appreciation of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, the American Heart Association, the leading global voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, is honoring its EmPOWERED to Serve Scholars of Asian American and Pacific Islander decent. These students are next-generation social justice leaders who are committed to ensuring equitable health and well-being for all.

HISD closing community food distribution program

Campus curbside pickup for student meals to continue through end of school year

With just three weeks left in the school year and public health conditions improving across the city, the Houston Independent School District is preparing to shut down its Neighborhood Supersite community food distribution program.

Fort Bend County Unanimously Passes County Policy for Body-Worn Cameras on the Anniversary of George Floyd's Death

Today Fort Bend County Commissioners’ unanimously passed the policy for body-worn cameras to establish guidelines for the operation of County body-worn camera equipment assigned to peace officers in an effort to increase accountability and transparency for law enforcement and the residents of Fort Bend County.

House Judiciary Crime Subcommittee Chair Sheila Jackson Lee Applauds Senate Confirmation of Kristen Clarke as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights

Jackson Lee: “As Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Ms. Clarke will bring the passion for justice that is the hallmark of her remarkable legal career to ensuring that all persons are treated equal under law and to combating discrimination, whether it be on the grounds of race, sex, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. She is the right person at the right time to lead the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice.”

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Houston native Courtney Tezeno to host new version of HGTV's "Cash in the Attic"

Hightower High School alum to host new version of HGTV's "Cash in the Attic"

HGTV recently announced that after 11 years, it has greenlit six new episodes of its popular series Cash in the Attic. The show's latest iteration has been retooled to highlight collectible items relevant to today’s audiences and will star Houston native and Hightower High School alum, Courtney Tezeno.

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Sasha Johnson: Five arrested in connection with shooting of British BLM activist

London police have arrested five men on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the shooting of prominent Black Lives Matter activist Sasha Johnson.

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George Floyd's family members remember the man and what he stood for

The story of George Floyd has ignited a movement. But to his girlfriend, "Big Floyd" was the man she loved.

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Darnella Frazier says she's 'a girl trying to heal' a year after recording George Floyd's last moments

Darnella Frazier says she still struggles with what she witnessed a year after recording the murder of George Floyd.

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Multiple fatalities after shooting at public transit control center in San Jose, California

A shooting at a public transit control center in San Jose, California, Wednesday morning left multiple casualties and fatalities, Deputy Russell Davis of the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office said.

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A Lot Of Walking Done During Losing Streak

That losing streak would continue as they dropped a highly contested game that featured two future Hall of Fame pitchers in Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw by a score of 9-2 in front of one of the largest crowds they have been in front of since 2019.

Tuesday, May 25

Initiatives announced to identify and remove barriers to health care access and quality

As a champion for health equity, the American Heart Association, the leading global voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, is enlisting the power of social entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and individual change agents to create innovative business models and concepts designed to drive health equity, sustainability, and community transformation.

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Houston Celebrates Africa with a Series of Events in Observance of Africa Day 2021

The City of Houston will mark its 4th annual Houston Africa Day celebration on May 27 by hosting the African Union Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Ambassador Hilda Suka-Mafudze, and 13 Ambassadors from African nations to Houston.

Friday, May 21

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Houston ISD Board of Education names Millard House as lone finalist for superintendent

After a lengthy process of gathering stakeholder input, a nationwide search that included a diverse pool of applicants, and a comprehensive interview process, the HISD Board of Education has announced Millard House as the lone finalist for superintendent of the Houston Independent School District

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Legal Challenges Likely Ahead For Strict New Texas Abortion Law

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday signed into law a so-called "heartbeat ban" abortion bill -- barring most abortions at the onset of a fetal heartbeat, which can occur as early as six weeks into pregnancy and before many people know they are pregnant.

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Mayor Sylvester Turner Proposes 18 % Pay Raise for the Houston Firefighters

This Mayor Sylvester Turner today proposed increasing the salaries of Houston firefighters by 18 percent over three years. The pay increase would begin July 1, 2021, with firefighters receiving a six percent raise every year for three years.

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COVID-19 Is A Risk To Humanity

COVID-19 knows no national boundaries. It does not discriminate by race or religion or ideology. The pandemic poses a threat to humanity, not to any one country. Our response must be as encompassing as the threat: we cannot end the threat here without ending it everywhere.

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The Right to Choose: Whose Rights Are Really Being Protected?

Having the freedom to choose is one of the undeniable rights that every natural born American has. Because we are all created equally with the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, we all know what it means to be free. However, when one American's right to choose negatively effects another American's inalienable right, who is really in the right and who is wrong? That is the big question when it comes to the new executive order from the office of Gov. Greg Abbott issued this past week.

Thursday, May 20

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Astros Defeat Oakland To Take Over Sole Possession Of First Place In A.L. West

On Thursday Houston defeated the Oakland A’s 8-4 to complete game number 10 out of 13 against interdivisional opponents in which they have won eight of those games and now lead the division by .05 games with a 26-18 record.

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H-E-B Celebration Zone at Discovery Green® unveiled during Gala on the Green

Families can reserve the space to host outdoor celebrations such as birthday parties, graduations, baby showers or any of life’s special events.

Discovery Green, the 12-acre park in the center of downtown Houston, unveiled its newest attraction for visitors during the virtual Gala on the Green: The H-E-B Celebration Zone.

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Springtime Travel to the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa, and Casino

Just in time for spring - Southwest Airlines offers direct flights from Houston to Reno/Tahoe for your next vacation at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort and Casino

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Mayor Turner Appoints New Director in the Mayor's Office of Education

Mayor Turner announced Wednesday the appointment of Olivera Jankovska as new Director of the Mayor's Office of Education.

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Astros pitcher Zack Greinke Speaks Loudly In The 8-1 Victory Over The A’s

Greinke (4-1) who started his 10th game of the season, pitched eight innings only allowing one run while striking out a season-high eight batters and did not walk any batter he faced as the Astros moved within a half of a game of the A’s for first place in the A.L. West division with an 8-1 victory over Oakland.

Tuesday, May 18

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Val Demings plans to run for Senate against Rubio, sources say

Florida Rep. Val Demings plans to run for US Senate against Republican Sen. Marco Rubio in 2022, two sources familiar with the plan told CNN Tuesday.

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Walmart got a boost from shoppers spending their stimulus checks

The latest round of federal stimulus payments of up to $1,400 per person lifted sales at Walmart, the largest retailer in the United States, as shoppers used their checks to buy clothing, home goods and other merchandise at stores and online.

Why Biden is not diving into Middle East peace brokering

Another tragic Middle East conflict is offering fresh insight into Joe Biden's sometimes ruthless calculations about the purpose of his presidency and his view of America's global role.

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US task force lowers recommended age to start colorectal cancer screening to 45

The US Preventive Services Task Force on Tuesday lowered the recommended age to start screening for colon and rectal cancers from 50 to 45.

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Women lead way in building home for a deserving veteran

A house that is being almost entirely built by women will go to a deserving veteran. Five months from now, Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County will have one last thing to do at a home on Sand Road in Westwood, New Jersey, and that is to hoist the ribbon for the cutting.

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South Carolina deputies involved in Jamal Sutherland's death have been fired, sheriff says

The two deputies involved in the in-custody death of Jamal Sutherland have been fired, Charleston County Sheriff Kristin Graziano said a statement tweeted by the Charleston County Sheriff's Office.

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Bank of America will raise its minimum wage to $25 by 2025

Bank of America said Tuesday that it will raise the hourly minimum wage of its US employees to $25 by 2025.

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Most states require parental consent for Covid-19 shots for ages 12 to 15, but not all. Here's the list.

Nearly all states require some form of parental or guardian consent for vaccine providers to administer Covid-19 shots to people ages 12 to 15, a CNN analysis finds. But there are a few exceptions.

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2 churches host night of prayer to stop gun violence

Religious leaders in Shreveport joined with the community for a night of prayer Monday. The event was the first of the "Save our City" campaign organized by Peaceful Rest Baptist Church and Praise Temple.

Shooting deaths of doctor, 70-year-old woman may be linked, police say

The fatal shooting of a doctor outside a Brentwood, Mo. hotel and a 70-year-old woman in University City may be connected, police say.

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School bus carrying 10 students rolls into ditch

The Winterset Community School District said 10 elementary students and a bus driver were involved in a rollover crash Monday in Madison County.

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14-year-old arrested for kidnapping, slashing woman's throat

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 14-year-old male on Friday with charges of kidnapping, robbery, aggravated battery and tampering with evidence. According to police, the 14-year-old met up with a woman in her twenties at a park on May 3. While at the park, the boy and the woman were in her car when the boy attacked her with a razor blade, slashed her throat several times and choked her.

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State offering $1,000 to the unemployed who find jobs

Connecticut's governor is offering a new initiative to get the people of Connecticut back to work in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Negotiators say they're not adhering to a deadline for policing bill as Floyd anniversary looms

A bipartisan and bicameral group of congressional negotiators met again Tuesday as they try to craft a compromise bill overhauling the nation's policing laws, with one week left until the one-year anniversary of George Floyd's death.

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Ethiopian soldiers armed with guns and grenades raid hospital featured in CNN report

Ethiopian soldiers armed with machine guns, sniper rifles and grenades raided a hospital in Ethiopia's war-torn northern Tigray region earlier this week in retribution, doctors say, for a CNN investigation that revealed Ethiopian and Eritrean troops were blocking humanitarian aid to patients there.

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New York Mets player suffers nasal fractures after getting hit in the face by a 94 mph fastball

New York Mets outfielder Kevin Pillar will meet with a specialist after he suffered multiple nasal fractures when a 94 mph fastball hit him, the team said Tuesday.

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Prophetic investor from 'The Big Short' is betting against Tesla

Michael Burry, one of the investors who became famous for predicting the epic collapse in the housing market in 2008 that was chronicled in the book and movie "The Big Short," has a new favorite stock to bet against: Tesla.

Law professor says businesses can ask for residents to show vaccine card

A COVID-19 conundrum after the latest guidance from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention allowing those vaccinated to go mask less in a number indoor and outdoor situations.

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5 ways to repair a friendship (or leave it behind if toxic)

When a friendship hits a stumbling block, how do you know whether to work on the relationship or let it go?

Why the United Nations is stuck on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

The deadly ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the kind of challenge you might think the United Nations could address. After all, it played a major role in establishing Israel as a state more than 70 years ago, what Palestinians refer to as the Nakba or "catastrophe." But it's not doing much on this one.

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Flooding leads to rescues in Louisiana and Texas, with more rain on the way

Water rescues were underway Tuesday morning in Louisiana's capital region after torrential rain that started a day earlier caused dangerous flash flooding in parts of that state and southeastern Texas.

The real reasons for why Kevin McCarthy is afraid of a January 6 commission

Days after a bipartisan agreement was reached in the House to form a commission to examine the roots and events of the January 6 riot at the US Capitol, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy announced Tuesday that he opposes the bill.

What Joe Biden's tax returns should remind us of (HINT: Donald Trump)

On Monday night, President Joe Biden did something relatively unremarkable: he released his 2020 tax returns, showing that he and his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, had made just over $607,000 in the last year and owed federal taxes of $157,000.

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City of Houston Begins to Electrify Fleet Through a Partnership with Greenlots

Today, Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston City Council announced approval to purchase, install and deploy electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in various City facilities. The effort will be enabled through the City’s partnership with Greenlots, a leading EV charging solutions provider and member of the Shell group, and driven by the Houston Climate Action Plan – a strategy that sets out to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve regional air quality, and build climate resilience.

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Mayor Turner Announces Unique Partnership Between Houston ISD and Rapper/Actor Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson

Mayor Sylvester Turner hosted a news conference Monday to announce a unique partnership between rapper, actor, and philanthropist Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, his G-Unity Foundation, and the Houston Independent School District.

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Arson suspect arrested in uncontrolled fire burning near Los Angeles

An arson suspect in custody is believed to be responsible for starting the uncontrolled Palisades Fire in Southern California, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said Monday.

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Nick Jonas is recovering from bike accident

Singer/actor and recently returned "The Voice" coach Nick Jonas has revealed details following reports he was hospitalized over the weekend.

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The housing market is still red hot despite lumber shortage

Americans keep putting money into their homes. And that's great news for Home Depot.

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T.I. and Tiny's lawyer says they have not been contacted by police

An attorney representing rapper Clifford "T.I." Harris and his wife, singer Tameka "Tiny" Harris, says the couple have not been contacted by authorities regarding an investigation into sexual assault and abuse allegations levied against the couple.

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Forbes staffers announce intention to unionize

At Forbes, a publication known for its coverage of the rich and powerful, its employees are fighting for something rather less glamorous: fair pay and job security.

Here's the truth: Raising the capital gains tax won't hurt the economy

The Biden administration recently released plans to increase the top capital gains tax rate for people earning over a million dollars a year to help pay for his American Families Plan. That plan is already under heavy fire from critics who claim it will spur them to curb their investments and destroy jobs. But the truth is, raising the capital gains tax rate won't hurt the economy or cut investments at all.

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Don’t Lose Your Covid-19 Vaccination Card…You’re Going To Need It

You thought your ID and passport were your most precious travel documents. This summer add a small white piece of paper, better known as your COVID Card, to the list.

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Should Women Skip Panties In The Summer?

Are you thinking about doing away with panties this summer? Some of us may think that this question is still up for debate, but scientifically there are real health benefits to both wearing and not wearing panties during the warmer months. Need to settle the debate once and for all? Here’s the rundown:

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Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

The summer is a great time to have fun, soak up all the vitamin D and enjoy not wearing a 2-pound heavy winter coat. While it’s something a lot of people look forward to, there are still some things to be cautious of in the summer. Here are the top health concerns/illnesses to watch out for in the summer!

Judge finds probable cause to move ahead with case against former officer Kim Potter

A Minnesota judge ruled Monday that there is probable cause to support the case against Kim Potter, the former Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, police officer who fatally shot Daunte Wright during a traffic stop in April.

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More places in the US lift mask mandates. One local leader says the honor system is already not working

Several days since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said fully vaccinated Americans can -- for the most part -- ditch their masks, more places are announcing changes to their mask policies, or doing away with the requirement altogether.

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After death of Covid-denying president, Tanzania sets roadmap to combat the virus

Tanzania's coronavirus response is getting serious, two months after the death of the country's Covid-denying president.

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Biden wants to bring the economy from relief to recovery. A labor shortage may signal trouble for those plans.

Patti Eisenbraun had been anxiously waiting for the pandemic to subside so the dining room and patio at the Brown Iron Brewhouse would be bustling once again.

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Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez are officially married Originally Pu

Congratulations and best wishes to the newly married Ariana Grande.

Monday, May 17

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Microsoft board investigated Bill Gates over an alleged affair with employee, report says

Bill Gates's 2020 resignation from Microsoft's board of directors came after the board hired a law firm to investigate a romantic relationship he had with a Microsoft employee, according to new reporting from the Wall Street Journal.

Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez are officially married

Congratulations and best wishes to the newly married Ariana Grande.

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Former Trump officials dodge questions about not defending US Capitol on January 6 as Republicans downplay riot

Two former top Trump administration officials testified before Congress on Wednesday about the Capitol insurrection, dodging questions from Democratic lawmakers about the attack while Republicans at the hearing used their time to criticize the government's investigations into the rioters and question the existence of the insurrection itself.

Gifts arriving for church-goer whose feel-good story went viral

It seemed like a feel-good story had run its course. Then surprises started arriving in the mail. La Verne Ford Wimberly, an 82-year-old retired Tulsa Public Schools administrator, gained global recognition and acclaim in March because she was at the center of a story-gone-viral: She dressed in her Sunday best for a year’s worth of Metropolitan Baptist Church services even though she was watching services from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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What we know about UFOs: How the Pentagon has handled reported sightings, mysterious videos and more

For years, the US government largely ignored reports of mysterious flying objects seen moving through restricted military airspace but it is now slowly beginning to acknowledge that UFOs, which the Pentagon refers to as unidentified aerial phenomena, are real.

Man dies on Mt. Everest; colleagues raising money to bring body back home

Family and friends are mourning the death of a Glastonbury man who died while climbing Mt. Everest.

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Biden administration notified Congress of $735 million weapons sale to Israel earlier this month, before violence began

The Biden administration notified Congress of a proposed US weapons sale to Israel worth $735 million earlier this month, according to two sources familiar with the notification.

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Bucknell University condemns 'horrific incident' against LGBTQ student community and orders investigation

Bucknell University condemned a "horrific incident" against the LGBTQ student community that occurred last week and announced investigations are underway.

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Bobby Brown opens up about coping with losing Whitney Houston and his kids

As in his 2009 hit, Every Little Step, Grammy Award winning performer Bobby Brown walks with new new purpose and truth.

Foundation’s Guinness World Record brings awareness to suicide prevention

A rock event for the ages. A Maryland foundation earned the Guinness World Record for the most painted rocks in one place at one time.

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Nurses' union president criticizes new CDC mask guidance

The president of the country's largest nurses' union has spoken out against updated federal guidance which says that -- with a few exceptions -- people who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 don't need to wear face masks in indoor or outdoor settings.

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New York won't require masks or social distancing for fully vaccinated people starting Wednesday

New York will adopt the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines to not require masks or social distancing for vaccinated people beginning Wednesday, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday.

Girl in ‘very critical condition’ after being shot at birthday party

polis Police are investigating after a child was shot in the head during a birthday party in Minneapolis’s Jordan neighborhood Saturday night.

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Mexico's Andrea Meza crowned Miss Universe

Miss Mexico Andrea Meza was crowned Miss Universe at the 69th annual pageant, which was delayed last year due to Covid-19.

J. Crew taps a streetwear design veteran to lead its men's brand

J. Crew, a brand known for its preppy aesthetic, is turning to a streetwear design veteran to help attempt a comeback after filing for bankruptcy last year.

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Tennessee governor signs controversial bathroom bill into law

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed a so-called controversial bathroom bill into law Friday, according to the state General Assembly website, prompting criticism from those who say the bill is discriminatory toward transgender individuals.

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Burger King is bringing back this fan-favorite menu item

Burger King is bringing back crown-shaped chicken nuggets after a 10-year absence, the latest nostalgia play in the fiercely competitive fast-food industry.

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Kim Kardashian West buys iconic Janet Jackson video outfit

It was Janet Jackson's 55th birthday over the weekend, but Kim Kardashian West got the gift.

Why Biden hasn't thrown himself publicly into a mediation effort in the Middle East

It's an emerging and potentially defining feature of Joe Biden's presidency. The new White House is training relentless attention on issues that Biden believes got him elected. But it also appears wary of spilling political capital in other crises that could deflect attention from his main ambitions or where deeper involvement may not deliver a decisive payoff.

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Harris headlines unity summit for AAPI community

Vice President Kamala Harris will serve as the keynote speaker for a virtual unity summit for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders this week, her latest outreach to a community that has faced a wave of racially motivated crimes during the pandemic and is growing as a voting bloc.

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Rapper J. Cole makes his debut in African basketball league the same weekend his album drops

J. Cole is having quite the weekend with not only the Friday release of his album, "The Off-Season," but also his debut in the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

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Baseball-sized hail threatens Texas again as flood risk increases

An outbreak of severe storms will threaten over 33 million people in the southern Plains on Monday, while the risk for flash flooding ramps up Tuesday and Wednesday.

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AT&T to spin off and combine WarnerMedia with Discovery in deal that would create streaming giant

The streaming TV race is about to get even more competitive. On Monday morning AT&T and Discovery, Inc. announced a deal under which AT&T's WarnerMedia will be spun off and combined with Discovery in a new standalone media company.

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Summer travel 2021: Things are booking up, but you can still plan a getaway

The wait-and-see approach to travel right now is prudent from a health perspective. From a booking perspective, maybe not so much.

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Thousands evacuated as powerful Cyclone Tauktae threatens Indian region grappling with Covid

Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from low-lying areas in western India as a powerful cyclone is expected to make landfall Tuesday, threatening a region already struggling with a devastating second coronavirus wave.

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US announces more sanctions against Myanmar's military government

The Biden administration announced more sanctions on Monday against Myanmar's military government, which has conducted a violent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters, and against key figures in the military regime as well as some family members of previously designated officials.

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Giuliani's attorneys argue recent search warrants are 'fruit of this poisoned tree' after 'illegal' iCloud search review in 2019

Attorneys for Rudy Giuliani argued in a letter to the court unsealed Monday that federal authorities' review of material seized from a covert search of his iCloud account in 2019 was illegal and suggested the search warrants executed late last month on his Manhattan home and office were the "fruit of this poisoned tree."

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Young man overcomes challenges to become student body president

College of Southern Nevada's new student body president shared obstacles he had to overcome to invest in his education.

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Bee season is underway

This spring, bees are beginning to multiply as it is their time to shine and that means Hummer & Son is working with them to get their season started to create honey.

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Supreme Court takes up major abortion case next term that could limit Roe v. Wade

The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to take up a key abortion case next term concerning a controversial Mississippi law that banned most abortions after 15 weeks, rekindling a potentially major challenge to Roe v. Wade at the majority conservative court.

Why my family is still isolating

We thought they got off the island. When we launched into our 533-page copy of "The Swiss Family Robinson" with our then 5- and 7-year-olds at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, my husband and I assumed that the Robinsons, shipwrecked on a remote desert island, would eventually rejoin humanity.

SUV crashes into storefront

An SUV drove into an Idaho Falls business on Park Avenue Sunday afternoon.

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What are the UK travel rules from May 17?

As of today, going on holiday is no longer illegal for travelers from England, Scotland and Wales.

Baseball organization helps those with autism

What began as a way to help people with autism participate in afterschool programs or community organizations has turned into a nationwide sports program in 33 states.

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The CDC was too cautious about what vaccinated people can do, doctors say. Now pendulum has swung in the opposite direction

At first, the news sounded great: Fully vaccinated Americans don't need to wear masks indoors, with just some exceptions, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

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Musk's mixed messages on bitcoin stoke anxieties about cryptos in Corporate America

Bitcoin, it seemed, was finally ready for prime time. Prices were surging, big payments firms were accepting it, and billionaires such as Paul Tudor Jones and Stanley Druckenmiler were endorsing it as an investment.

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Long working hours are killing hundreds of thousands of people a year, WHO says

Working long hours is killing hundreds of thousands of people a year through stroke and heart disease, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

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White House says Biden will release tax returns 'soon'

The White House will release President Joe Biden's tax returns "soon," press secretary Jen Psaki announced Monday, reinstating a presidential tradition that was halted by former President Donald Trump.

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Former Matt Gaetz associate Joel Greenberg pleads guilty to six federal charges

Joel Greenberg, a former Florida tax collector and close confidant of Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz, formally pleaded guilty on Monday morning to six federal charges in a court hearing, admitting to a federal judge that he had knowingly solicited and paid a minor for sex.

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White House concerns rising over civilian deaths in Israeli-Palestinian conflict

The growing number of civilian deaths in the intensifying battle between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is causing worry inside the White House as officials work the phones with partners in the region.

What we know about the Covid-19 variant first found in India

A coronavirus variant first detected in India in February has now gone global, spreading to dozens of countries and raising fears that the strain will overwhelm health care systems, reverse reopening plans and even potentially undermine the rollout of vaccines.

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Georgia's Republican lieutenant governor, a Trump critic, says he will not seek reelection in 2022

Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan -- a Republican who has been critical of former President Donald Trump's false claims of fraud in the state's election -- announced Monday he will not seek reelection in 2022.

81-year-old driver inducted into School Bus Driver Hall of Fame

A Rutherford County bus driver is being inducted into the Tennessee School Bus Driver Hall of Fame at the age of 81.

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'This is a huge step for law enforcement.' Police unions shift stance on protecting bad officers

In response to the police killing George Floyd, 15 unions that represent law enforcement officers across the US have endorsed a blueprint for policing that includes an unprecedented shift in the way unions protect bad police officers, according to a copy of the plan obtained by CNN ahead of its release this week.

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Biden announces US will share more vaccines globally

President Joe Biden said Monday that his administration will share millions more doses of Covid-19 vaccines with other countries in addition to the 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine he has already committed to sharing by July 4.

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Toni Beck Named Vice President of External Affairs for Comcast in Houston

Comcast today announced that Toni Beck has been appointed vice president of External Affairs for the company’s Houston Region. In this role, Beck will be responsible for managing all external affairs activities for the region, including government affairs, communications, community, media, and public relations.

Friday, May 14

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How To Get Your Texas Real Estate License

Welcome back to The Open House. Have you ever wanted to get your real estate license but didn’t know where to start? At least once a week I get asked about the process, so this week I wanted to share with you how you can become a Texas Real Estate Agent.

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9 Good Jobs That Have the Highest Suicide Rates

We know there is something that you don’t like about any job you have, but with these jobs, it’s worse. From 2000 to 2012, the overall rates of suicide for people aged 16 and older rose 21 percent, the CDC found. That works out to an approximate increase from 13 to 16 suicides per every 100,000 people in the United States.

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Here's where Melinda Gates will focus her multi-billion-dollar fortune after her divorce

Together, Bill and Melinda Gates were one of the richest and most philanthropic couples in the world. After splitting, they will be two of the wealthiest individuals in the world.

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This AI tool writes real estate descriptions without ever stepping inside a home

"L O V E L Y Oakland!" the house description began. It went on to give a slew of details about the 1,484 square-foot home — light-filled, charming, Mediterranean-style, with a yard that "boasts lush front landscaping" — and finished by describing the "cozy fireplace" and "rustic-chic" pressed tin ceiling in the living room.

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South Carolina sheriff's office releases jail footage showing the in-custody death of a mentally ill Black man

Authorities in South Carolina have released new footage showing how a mentally ill Black man died while sheriffs forcibly removed him from a jail cell earlier this year.

Monica and Rachel's 'Friends' apartment is on Booking.com

"Friends" fans are being given the chance to crash for a night at Monica and Rachel's apartment. More than a quarter century since Rachel sought refuge with Monica after running out of her wedding to Barry the dentist, "The Friends Experience" -- a two-story, immersive celebration of the show launched in New York in March -- has teamed up with travel company Booking.com to provide what it calls "The Ultimate Sleepover."

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COVID-19 Is a Global Threat That Requires a Global Mobilization

India is now ground zero for COVID-19. Saturday, it suffered a new record of more than 335,000 new infections and over 4,000 deaths in one day, while hospitals run out of oxygen and beds, and as morgues and crematoria are overwhelmed. In total, a staggering 22.6 million people have been infected, with 246,116 deaths.

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Things Get A Little Wild For The Astros In Extra Innings

There is an old cliché in sports that goes, “Sometimes is better to be lucky than to be good.” The Houston Astros found that out in the bottom of the 11th inning in a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park on Thursday night.

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Is The Covid-‐19 Vaccine Safe For Our 12-‐15 Aged Children?

Every parent wants to do nothing more than to protect his or her child from any kind of danger. They want to be that shield. That superhero that will do whatever it takes to keep their child safe. And when they can't figure out how to do that it leaves them in a state of panic. A little over 14 months ago parents, along with the rest of the world, went into panic mode.

Thursday, May 13

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People vaccinated against Covid-19 can go without masks indoors and outdoors, CDC says

People fully vaccinated against Covid-19 do not need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors, except under certain circumstances, the director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Thursday.

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Boris Johnson is 'anxious' as Covid-19 variant found in India spreads in UK

Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted Thursday that his government was "anxious" about the coronavirus variant first identified in India, as the number of UK cases of the strain more than doubled in a week.

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Biden's 'core conviction' drives his push to tax corporations and the rich. It could cost him.

President Joe Biden's steadfast belief in taxing corporations and the rich has become a central plank in his legislative agenda, even as he's warned of political peril and red lines from Republicans.

Missouri medical marijuana patients near major milestone; many doctors still banned from certifying patients

Missouri is seeing an increased interest in medical marijuana as dispensaries begin opening in the St. Louis area on an almost weekly basis. The latest data from the state shows 99,225 patients have been approved for medical marijuana cards.

A Republican House member just described January 6 as a 'normal tourist visit'

The Republican Party's attempts to rewrite the history of the January 6 riot at the US Capitol took another dramatic step forward at a Capitol Hill hearing Wednesday, when Georgia Rep. Andrew Clyde (R) suggested that the insurrection was far less serious than it's been portrayed.

New York Yankees say 7 vaccinated members tested positive for Covid-19. Here's how that could happen

Seven members of the New York Yankees' coaching and support staff have tested positive for Covid-19 despite being inoculated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the baseball team's manager said.

Defense attorneys ask judge to allow Ahmaud Arbery's past run-ins with the law into the trial

Attorneys representing the three White men accused of chasing and killing Ahmaud Arbery want to be allowed to tell a jury about Arbery's past run-ins with the law during the upcoming trial.

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Scientists bring to life nearly 100 baby sharks through artificial insemination

Sharks are as fascinating as they are endangered, and scientists have been sounding the alarm on the rate at which shark populations are declining.

Musician on brink of starvation during pandemic

With no gigs over the past year, Barry Flanagan — one of the founding members of the local music group "Hapa" — said he nearly starved to death. When the music stopped, the Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning artist lost his primary source of income. Without help from the state, he said his life began to unravel and he hasn't been able to find the right chords to stop the spiraling.

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State trial for three other ex-officers charged in George Floyd's killing is delayed until next year

The state trial for the three former Minneapolis Police officers accused of aiding and abetting the murder of George Floyd has been postponed until March 7, 2022, so that a federal trial on civil rights charges can take place first, Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill announced in a Thursday hearing, according to a pool reporter in court.

Prince Harry reveals secret supermarket meeting with Meghan

Prince Harry has spoken about the extent to which he and Meghan tried to keep their burgeoning relationship under wraps, how it felt to grow up in the media spotlight and his new life in the US.

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Global airlines cancel flights to Israel as violence escalates

Global airlines are canceling flights to Israel as clashes between the country's military and Palestinian militants in Gaza intensify.

Wednesday, May 12

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Reggie Jackson Joins Crane Capital As Special Advisor Hall of Famer becomes Special Advisor to Jim Crane with focus on charitable and youth efforts

HOUSTON, TX - Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson has joined the Astros family as Special Advisor to Jim Crane. Following an illustrious playing career with the Athletics, Orioles, Yankees, and Angels, Jackson spent most of his post-playing career with the New York Yankees organization as a special advisor.

Tuesday, May 11

College students plan to visit every Iowa town

A lot of Iowans are planning their summer vacations right now, but no one has plans like Austin Schneider and Seth Varner.

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Woman killed on way to granddaughter’s birthday party

Less than five months into the year, 11 people walking on the streets of Las Vegas have been hit by a car and killed. That includes a great-grandmother who was on her way to her granddaughter’s birthday party.

Voting rights fight heads to Senate with committee debate

Senate Democrats are moving ahead this week with a sweeping proposal to rewrite US election laws -- a longshot bid meant to counteract the voter restrictions Republicans have passed at the state level.

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Uber and Lyft to provide free rides to vaccination sites as part of new White House partnership

President Joe Biden announced additional steps toward promoting vaccine accessibility, including free rides on Uber and Lyft to vaccination sites, to help meet the administration's goal of 70% of adults getting at least one coronavirus shot by July 4.

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5 migrant children found alone along US-Mexico border, including an 11-month old

Five unaccompanied migrant children, ranging from as young as 11 months to 7 years old, were encountered along the Texas-Mexico border Sunday, according to US Customs and Border Protection.

Biden to meet with key moderate Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema on infrastructure on Tuesday

President Joe Biden will meet with Arizona Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema at the White House on Tuesday afternoon to talk about his infrastructure proposal, White House official said.

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Mayor Sylvester Turner Announced as New President of African American Mayors Association

Houston Mayor, Sylvester Turner, accept top leadership role in African American Mayor's Association.

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Little Mix's Perrie Edwards is having a baby

Little Mix star Perrie Edwards has announced that she is expecting her first child with England footballer Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

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Tom Cruise returns Golden Globes Awards in protest of HFPA

Tom Cruise has returned his Golden Globe Awards to the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, a source close to the actor told CNN on Monday.

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Porsha Williams engaged to estranged husband of 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' guest star

Porsha Williams has raised some eyebrows with the news that she is now engaged to a man "Real Housewives of Atlanta" viewers met this season as the husband of one of her friends.

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Being a teen is tough. London teenagers share how the pandemic has made it even harder

Away from her friends and regular routine, London teenager Eesha Parashara developed an eating disorder during the UK's first national lockdown, which began last March.

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2 men accused of using chemical on officer Brian Sicknick at the Capitol riot to stay in jail, judge rules

Two men accused of spraying police with chemical spray, including on Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, in the Capitol riot will stay in jail as they await trial, a federal judge ruled on Tuesday.

Senior cybersecurity official warns attacks on US are growing more 'sophisticated frequent and aggressive'

A top Biden administration cybersecurity official warned that cyberattacks on the nation's infrastructure are "growing more sophisticated, frequent and aggressive," at a Tuesday hearing focused on a spate of recent incidents impacting the US.

IBM CEO: America needs a NASA-like agency to prevent future pipeline attacks

IBM is on a tear under the leadership of new CEO Arvind Krishna: It created the world's smallest microchip and Tuesday it announced new AI capabilities at its annual Think event.

Tesla's weak sales in China worry investors

Tesla's recent run of bad publicity in China is apparently hurting its sales there, raising investor concerns.

Voyager spacecraft detects 'persistent hum' beyond our solar system

One of the Earth's longest-flying spacecraft has detected a "persistent hum" beyond our solar system, according to a new study.

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At least 7 children killed in Russian school shooting

Seven children were killed and at least 16 people injured on Tuesday after a gunman opened fire in a school in the Russian city of Kazan, according to the country's National Anti-Terrorism Committee.

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Surging prices are spooking the stock market

US stocks tumbled out of the gate Tuesday as investors grow increasingly concerned about raw material price spikes, shortages and inflation.

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White House says Biden will receive his physical exam later this year

President Joe Biden will receive a regular physical exam later this year, the White House said Tuesday, setting a timeline for when the oldest first-term president in US history might provide more information about his health.

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‘Heartbreaking:’ Leaders react to death of three-year-old boy who accidentally shot himself

City leaders expressed frustration over the ongoing gun violence as well as preventable nature of the death of a three-year-old boy who accidentally shot himself with a gun over the weekend.

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Maryland NAACP leader blasts Gov. Larry Hogan's posthumous pardons of lynching victims as 'political posturing'

The head of Maryland's NAACP on Sunday lambasted Gov. Larry Hogan's posthumous pardon of lynching victims as "political posturing," criticizing the Republican governor for issuing a blanket pardon of dozens of the state's Black victims even though many were never convicted of any crimes, but merely charged or accused of wrongdoing before they were killed.

Sally Buzbee will be first woman to lead Washington Post as new executive editor

The Washington Post has selected Sally Buzbee, executive editor and senior vice president at the Associated Press, as its new top editor.

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Caitlyn Jenner didn't vote for Trump in 2020 and skipped the election to play golf

Caitlyn Jenner is attempting to defy ideological definition as she runs to unseat Gov. Gavin Newsom in California's all-but-certain recall election, telling CNN's Dana Bash that she didn't vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2020 election -- and, in fact, didn't bother to vote at all.

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Gasoline demand spikes in several states after pipeline hack

American drivers on the East Coast are filling up aggressively following a ransomware attack that shut down the Colonial Pipeline, a critical artery for gasoline.

Monday, May 10

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The US Mint wants you to help choose the pioneering women that will appear on its new quarters

Following coins that put the spotlight on Duke Ellington, the Tuskegee Airmen and Samoan fruit bats, a new run of quarters will call attention to pioneering American women.

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NBC will not air the next Golden Globes after diversity controversy

The Golden Globes will not be airing on NBC next year, temporarily ending a decades-long relationship between the network and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the nonprofit responsible for the awards.

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Bed Bath & Beyond has a plan to stop losing bargain hunters to Amazon and Target

About 58% of American adults have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine -- but the rates differ depending on where you look.Bed Bath & Beyond has decided it's too expensive for some shoppers. It's trying to change that.

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Top White House Covid official urges Americans to follow expert guidance as pace of vaccinations slows

The White House Covid-19 response coordinator on Sunday said the country is "turning the corner" on the pandemic, but stressed that despite some Covid fatigue, Americans must get vaccinated and follow the science.

Willow Smith surprised mom Jada with a Wicked Wisdom reunion

It was a heavy Mother's Day surprise on "Red Table Talk" when Willow Smith rounded up her mom's former metal band for a performance.

Apple TV+ announces Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry series debut date

A highly anticipated multi-part documentary series from co-creators and executive producers Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, now has a debut date.

Low pay and 'toxic' workplaces are driving workers away from restaurants

On a typical week in pre-pandemic times, about 15 people would walk into one of Patrick Whalen's casual elegant restaurants seeking a job in the kitchen.

Donald Trump has some *deep* thoughts on Medina Spirit

The big news in the sporting world over the weekend was that Medina Spirit, the surprise winner of the Kentucky Derby, had tested positive for an anti-inflammatory drug that is often used to mask injury or ease joint pain in thoroughbred racehorses.

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Volunteers help search for missing 2-year-old boy, $30k reward offered by family

Las Vegas police are investigating a report of a missing 2-year-old boy last seen east of the Strip.

Italian woman accidentally given six shots of Covid-19 vaccine

A 23-year-old woman who was mistakenly given six doses of the Pfizer BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine has been discharged from the hospital where she was being monitored for any adverse reaction.

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More than 1 million Honda Accords may have a steering problem. The US is investigating

Federal safety regulators are investigating reports that more than 1 million Honda Accords have a steering problem that can a cause a car to veer out of its lane.

Widow not allowed to say goodbye to dying husband at hospital

A family from Greenwood is contemplating legal action after a hospital prevented a wife from saying goodbye to her husband dying of COVID-19.

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Wendy's is bringing its square burgers back to Britain after 20 years

Wendy's is returning to the United Kingdom following a two-decade hiatus, judging now the right time to take advantage of Britons' growing appetite for quick and convenient meals.

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Biden administration says it will enforce federal transgender health care protections, undoing controversial Trump-era reversal

The Biden administration will work to protect transgender Americans from discrimination in health care, undoing a controversial Trump-era decision to nix federal protections for members of the community, the Department of Health and Human Services announced Monday.

America's electric cars need lithium so badly it may wipe out this species

Fewer than 40 years after humans discovered Tiehm's buckwheat, a Nevada plant with yellow flowers, they may drive it to extinction in pursuit of electric vehicles, a technology widely hailed as being environmentally friendly.

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There were at least 9 mass shootings across the US this weekend

A gunman opened fire at a family birthday party in Colorado Springs on Sunday, leaving six people dead and a community in mourning.

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Bill and Melinda Gates have been working on their divorce since 2019, WSJ reports

Bill and Melinda Gates have been in the process of getting divorced for two years, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Teen Vogue has a new editor in chief, again: NowThis' Versha Sharma named to role

Teen Vogue has appointed its second new editor in chief this year. Versha Sharma, managing editor of NowThis, is taking the helm of the Condé Nast brand in a position that was going to be filled in March by Alexi McCammond until the fallout over McCammond's past racist and homophobic tweets.

Interfaith leaders raising $100K for Tulsa Race Massacre reparations

Some Tulsa-area interfaith leaders hope their effort to raise money for Tulsa Race Massacre reparations will ultimately pay off by convincing the city of Tulsa to do the same.

What Florida's attack on voting rights is really about

Like many other GOP-controlled states, Florida has made it even harder to vote, passing a bill to curb access to mail-in voting, implement stricter ID requirements and limit the use of ballot drop-boxes. While signing the bill into law last Thursday, Gov. Ron DeSantis -- barring all Florida press and making the bill signing event a Fox News exclusive -- cooed that this was an achievement for voting "integrity and transparency."

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Ernest “Ernie” Jackson, Jr. Obituary: “A Life of Community Service”

Ernest (Ernie) Jackson Jr., one of the pioneers of the historic Black radio movement in America and an award‐winning amateur photographer, recently made his heavenly transition.

Sunday, May 9

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Tucker Has Breakout Game To Help The Astros Win Series Over The Blue Jays

“I figured I was getting a fastball right there because he (Blue Jays pitcher Anthony Kay) was trying to get back in the count,” said Tucker on his approach being up 3-0 in the count. “I was just getting down and getting ready for it and put a good swing on it.”

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Fans Experience Déjà Vu As Astros Lose To The Blue Jays 8-4

For lifelong Houston Astros fans, it must have been a walk down memory lane seeing the name Biggio on the back of a uniform rounding the bases at Minute Maid Park after hitting a home run. Only problem was this Biggio played for the opposite team. Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Cavan Biggio help lead his team to an 8-4 victory over the Houston Astros.

Saturday, May 8

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Gurriel Continues Hot Streak At The Plate In 10-4 Victory Over Blue Jays

First baseman Yuli Gurriel tied a career high by going 4-for-4 at the plate while also driving in four runs. He has been a very steady bat in the lineup for the Astros this year as he leads the team in batting average (.342) hits (39) and RBIs (24).

Friday, May 7

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Short-Handed Rockets Fall To Bucks 141-133

No matter what team you root for in the NBA, you have to look at the Houston Rockets and imagine what the future holds for them if they are fully healthy next season. They compete at a high level against their opponents, all the while only having eight available players and most of the time two of them would still be on the injured list if the team had a full roster.

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Statement by Rev. Al Sharpton & National Action Network (NAN) on the Federal Grand Jury Indictments of 4 Ex-Officers

Statement by Rev. Al Sharpton & National Action Network (NAN) on the Federal Grand Jury Indictments of 4 Ex-Officers Involved in George Floyd’s Killing, Including Derek Chauvin Who Was Also Charged in a Second Indictment, Stemming from the Arrest and Neck Restraint of a 14-Year-Old Boy in 2017

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Federal grand jury indicts four former Minneapolis police officers in George Floyd's death

A federal grand jury has indicted four former Minneapolis police officers in connection with the death of George Floyd, alleging the officers violated Floyd's constitutional rights, according to court documents filed in federal court in Minnesota.

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What we know about the 2017 encounter that led to Derek Chauvin's second indictment

Derek Chauvin, who was convicted last month on state murder charges in the death of George Floyd, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with a separate incident involving a teen in 2017.

The most absurd conspiracy theory yet in the ongoing Arizona recount

To read the daily missives being sent by former President Donald Trump, you might be led to believe that the ongoing recount of ballots in Arizona's Maricopa County is, well, a serious endeavor.

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'America is not a racist country'

“America is not a racist country.” This is quickly becoming a Republican mantra. Sen. Tim Scott, the only Black Republican in the Senate, used it in his rebuttal to President Biden’s address to the Congress. Sen. Lindsey Graham, the Republican weather vane, echoed him, as did Republicans across the country. Scott went on to accuse Democrats of dividing the country by using race as a “political weapon.”

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Mental Health Is a Problem for All Not Just Some

Being imbalanced is a problem that everyone has had to deal with at some point in their life more than once and will have to deal with it again. Life is stressful and can cause anyone anxiety. Mental health surveys indicate that 60% of the American population has experienced significant levels of mental and/or emotional unwellness since the onset of the global pandemic. A 2020 Kaiser family study indicated that Texans have had an increase in their levels of anxiety and depression from an average of 37.7% before the pandemic to 40.1% during the pandemic. Difficulties are with individuals owning this as their reality as a threat to their mental health can be an even bigger problem than dealing with stress and anxiety itself.

Thursday, May 6

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Altuve’s Birthday Gift To Himself Silences Yankees Stadium

I am pretty sure that Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve will enjoy all the gifts he received for his 31st birthday, but none will be as gratifying as the one he gave himself in the top of the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium on Thursday.

Wednesday, May 5

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Choose the safest sunscreen for your family with this 2021 guide

As you choose your sunscreen for summer fun, be careful to avoid products with harmful chemicals and false advertising claims, according to the 15th Annual Guide to Sunscreens, published by the Environmental Working Group, a consumer organization that advocates for environmental safety.

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Pfizer to seek authorization for Covid-19 vaccine for children ages 2 to 11 in September

Pfizer expects to file for full US Food and Drug Administration approval for its Covid-19 vaccine for people ages 16 to 85 this month, and will seek emergency use authorization for its vaccine for children ages 2 to 11 in September, the company said during an earnings call on Tuesday.

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Life may feel more normal even before herd immunity is reached

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, experts have said how crucial it is to reach some level of herd immunity. But now some say full herd immunity may not be necessary for life to look more normal.

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Canada authorizes Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for children ages 12 to 15

Children in Canada ages 12 to 15 can now get vaccinated against Covid-19.

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Kids and the Covid-19 vaccine: A pediatrician answers safety questions

The US Food and Drug Administration is expected to grant emergency use authorization next week to Pfizer/BioNTech's coronavirus vaccine for teens and children ages 12 to 15.

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Why some vaccinated people won't go maskless -- even outdoors

Texas resident Robert Soto can't wait to visit his favorite karaoke spots in Austin. He says he'll be wearing his mask when he belts out "Amber" by 311 or "The Promise" by When in Rome -- his go-to songs every time he grabs the mic at a bar.

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We're starting to see how the pandemic affected births in the US

Remember that pandemic baby boom some thought we'd see about nine months after coronavirus lockdowns swept across the US?

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The Weeknd plans to continue his Grammys boycott

Despite the Grammys announcing some changes, The Weeknd says he still isn't rocking with them. After being shut out of the 63rd annual Grammy Awards nominations despite having a massively successful album, the singer accused the Recording Academy of being "corrupt" and vowed to boycott future ceremonies, including not submitting his work for consideration.

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Will Smith to get fit for YouTube series

Will Smith is getting serious about his health and will document his journey for YouTube. In the upcoming tentatively titled series "Best Shape of My Life," Smith will show the actor "rebuilding his body into the best shape of his life and getting his groove back along the way," according to a description distributed by YouTube.

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Sean Combs proves he has legally changed his middle name to 'Love'

Sean Combs is at it again. The mogul who went from Puffy to Puff Daddy to P. Diddy, to Diddy, and then P. Diddy again really did change his middle name to "Love."

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Emily will be more French in Season 2 of 'Emily in Paris'

Emily in "Emily in Paris" is going to be a bit more Parisian in Season 2.

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Steven Soderbergh explains exactly why they switched up the Oscars ending

The Academy Awards ending was a little different this year due to a decision by producers that had to do with late actor Chadwick Boseman.

Kelly Osbourne and her sister don't talk

Kelly Osbourne is talking about a lot lately, but there's one person she's not sharing with. The reality star/actress is promoting her new weekly podcast "The Kelly Osbourne and Jeff Beacher Show" and has been giving interviews.

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First on CNN: GOP Senate campaign arm targets Kelly over immigration

The campaign arm for Senate Republicans is set to launch a multi-media ad campaign targeting incumbent Democratic freshman Sen. Mark Kelly over his stance on immigration, a sign that Arizona could be one of the most important battlegrounds in the 2022 midterm elections.

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PPP is out of money for most businesses ahead of planned May 31 closure

The Paycheck Protection Program is out of cash for most businesses weeks ahead of the program's scheduled May 31 closure, the Small Business Administration said Tuesday.

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Donald Trump weighs in on Liz Cheney's expected ouster by endorsing Stefanik and talking to McCarthy

Former President Donald Trump is weighing in on the fight to replace Rep. Liz Cheney in the House Republican Party's leadership, blasting Cheney, endorsing her possible replacement and staying in touch with Republicans on Capitol Hill as the effort gets underway.

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How Amy Coney Barrett has changed the Supreme Court in ways Kavanaugh hasn't

Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett has aligned most often with Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch in her first months on the bench. Yet as the court enters the final weeks of its annual session, Barrett is also separating herself from brethren on the right with a lower key, attention-deflecting manner.

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Biden to deliver remarks on newly launched Restaurant Revitalization Fund

President Joe Biden on Wednesday is set to promote the newly launched Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which was established to help struggling restaurants and other eligible businesses keep their doors open during the coronavirus pandemic, according to a White House official.

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How Melinda and Bill Gates might handle the division of their billions

In the divorce of Melinda and Bill Gates, the division of their vast wealth is unlikely to cause fireworks and fury. For one thing, they have a lot of money to share. Plus, they've publicly committed to giving the majority of their wealth to philanthropy.

Facebook tried to punt the Trump decision. That backfired

The Facebook Oversight Board was designed to make some of Facebook's most difficult decisions for the company. But on Wednesday the board put one of the biggest dilemmas facing the platform back on Facebook and company CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

Judge says CDC doesn't have authority to issue eviction moratorium

A federal judge in Washington on Wednesday declared that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's moratorium on eviction for non-payment must be set aside.

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Garrett Rolfe, former Atlanta officer who fatally shot Rayshard Brooks, was wrongly terminated, board says

Garrett Rolfe, the former Atlanta police officer charged in the fatal shooting of Rayshard Brooks in a Wendy's parking lot, was wrongly terminated, the Atlanta Civil Service Board has ruled.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo With Milagro Tequila

Great tasing cocktails by Milagro Tequila.

Tuesday, May 4

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Astros Greeted With Hostility In Yankee Stadium

Well, the Houston Astros was that team who was involved in a cheating scandal back in 2017 when they defeated the Yankees in the ALCS and advanced to the World Series outlasting the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games. On Tuesday, New York fans came out in full force to boo the five remaining players from the 2017 team and that energy helped fuel the Yankees to a 7-3 victory over the Astros.

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Find out which countries are welcoming US tourists back

Once one of the world's most powerful travel documents, the might of the United States passport has been diminished during the pandemic. With US Covid-19 cases now past the 32.4 million mark, some nations continue to view vacationers warily even as more Americans get vaccinated.

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The desperate families still torn apart by Covid rules

When the European Union recently announced that vaccinated Americans will be allowed to enter the EU this summer, many US travelers celebrated, eager to dust off their passports for a long-awaited trip abroad.

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Carnival cruise ships return to a Texas port for the first time in over a year

Two Carnival cruise ships returned to the Port of Galveston in Texas on Sunday. After over a year away, the return of the ships offers a glimmer of hope for the travel industry, which has taken a huge hit during the pandemic.

Is this the world's best crab restaurant?

Crabs caught in Sri Lankan waters are so prized in Singapore's fine dining establishments that a single one can sell for hundreds of dollars. But there was one place where these crabs weren't the hottest dish on the menu -- Sri Lanka.

A woman gave birth prematurely on a flight to Hawaii. Luckily, 3 NICU nurses and a doctor were on board to help

There were a lot of surprises on a flight to Hawaii last week, starting with the birth of a baby to a woman who didn't know she was pregnant.

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Four astronauts are preparing to return home from a record-breaking mission. This image shows a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifting off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on November 15, 2020. Mandat

Nupur Gupta was nearing the end of a two-week stint teaching at a yoga retreat in Goa, India. It was February 2019 and the weather was balmy, bathing Goa's famous beaches in a warm glow. The sea glistened, invitingly.

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SpaceX splashdown: Four astronauts to return from record-breaking mission

Four astronauts are on their way home from the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, ending their five-month mission to the orbiting laboratory. The astronauts set a record for the longest time in space by a crew that launched aboard an American-built spacecraft.

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Epic Games and Apple spar over consoles and walled gardens on opening day of trial

Epic Games and Apple kicked off their high-profile trial on Monday, beginning a legal battle that is expected to run for at least two weeks and has the potential to change not only the iPhone maker's app ecosystem, but also the broader app economy worth hundreds of billions of dollars.

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May the 4th be with you and other pop culture holidays

Before you get to Cinco de Mayo, May the Fourth be with you. It's that time again when "Star Wars" aficionados (read "geeks") celebrate one of their favorite days of the year.

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Britney Spears slams the documentaries being made about her life

Britney Spears is tired of all the documentaries being made about her life, specifically when it comes to her court-ordered conservatorship.

Dr. Strange almost appeared in 'WandaVision' but then....

According to the head of Marvel, Benedict Cumberbatch was slated to appear as Dr. Strange in the final episode of the Disney+ series "WandaVision."

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Reclusive 'Simpsons' writer John Swartzwelder gives first major interview

"The Simpsons" writer John Swartzwelder is finally talking about his days writing 59 iconic episodes of the show.

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Vaccines are helping bring down US Covid-19 numbers. But the virus is now hitting one group of Americans harder

America's daily Covid-19 cases and deaths are now about one-fifth of what they were during their winter peaks -- and one expert says the country's improved numbers have a lot to do with the climbing vaccinations.

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Mexico City subway overpass collapses, killing at least 23 and injuring dozens

An overpass carrying a subway train collapsed in Mexico City late Monday, killing at least 23 people, including children, according to local government officials.

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Cheney sees cratering support in House GOP as McCarthy says she isn't 'carrying out the message'

Rep. Liz Cheney's days as the No. 3 in House GOP leadership appear to be numbered, with speculation growing about her replacement and House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy contending she has failed to do her job in driving the party's message to take back the majority.

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The Black Stone of Mecca like you've never seen before

High resolution photos have been revealed for the first time of an ancient religious stone in Mecca, Islam's holy city, a Saudi government agency has announced.

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After being pummeled, Southeast US faces the threat of more storms and tornadoes

About 90 million people from the US Gulf Coast to the Northeast could see severe weather on Tuesday as part of a multi-day storm outbreak.

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A Unique Fashion Event You Won't Want To Miss – Tune in live and cast your votes for your favorite designs

If you caught the Academy Awards on April 25th, you may be yearning for more red carpet glam? Well, you’re in luck! The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and Houston Community College have teamed up for an innovative, reimagined fashion event, Fashion Fusion VI: Antiquities to Modern Works, inspired by the Museum’s permanent collection.

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Ethereum is leaving bitcoin in the crypto dust

Hunter S. Thompson once wrote, "There is nothing in the world more helpless and irresponsible and depraved than a man in the depths of an ether binge." He was referring to the intoxicating drug, not the cryptocurrency. But ethereum investors may have reasons for fear and loathing, too.

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Want to invest in crypto? Here's what you need to know

Cryptocurrency is having a moment. Between the meteoric rise of dogecoin, Tesla accepting bitcoin as payment for its vehicles and PayPal allowing users to buy crypto on Venmo — all of which happened in just over a month — there is growing attention on and interest in the digital asset space.

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Disney unveils a real-life lightsaber

Ever since "Star Wars" premiered in 1977, kids and adults alike wanted to get their hands on a lightsaber. The "elegant weapon for a more civilized age" is one of the most famous props in movie history and pop culture — and now Disney has apparently created a "real" one.

Facebook's decision on readmitting Trump is going to enrage people. But there's more to the story

Four months ago, Facebook announced former President Donald Trump had been suspended indefinitely from its platform. On Wednesday morning, Facebook's oversight board -- a first-of-its-kind group of legal experts and human rights leaders -- will announce its decision about whether Trump will be permanently banned.

Kevin McCarthy's dishonest explanation for getting rid of Liz Cheney

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy made clear Tuesday morning that a formal effort to remove Rep. Liz Cheney from her post as the third ranking leader is likely as soon as next week.

Monday, May 3

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Knicks “Bully Ball” Too Much For The Rockets

One day later it was the leading candidate for the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award, Julius Randle’s turn to feast on a Rockets team who only suited up nine players. He scored 31 points in just three quarters of action as the Knicks defeated the Rockets 122-97

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Cops accuse man of swinging colostomy bag at officers

Metro Police arrested a man on multiple charges including assaulting two police officers after he took off his colostomy bag and swung it to strike the officers, according to court documents.

The GOP of Cheney, Bush and Romney feels like ancient history

The GOP's identity crisis is entering a pernicious new phase for Republicans who won't live in former President Donald Trump's alternate reality, push his big lie and rewrite history.

Keegan-Michael Key among final 'SNL' hosts of the season

"Saturday Night Live" has set the stage for its final hosts of the season. Keegan-Michael Key and "The Queen's Gambit" star Anya Taylor-Joy will host the long-running sketch show on May 15 and May 22, respectively.

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Top US general drops opposition to major policy changes on sexual assault in the military

The top US general has dropped his opposition to major policy changes on how the military handles sexual assault, acknowledging the Department of Defense has not "moved the needle" with its previous efforts.

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Bill and Melinda Gates are ending their marriage

Bill and Melinda Gates are ending their marriage after 27 years, the pair announced in a statement on their verified Twitter accounts.

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Landmark trial with drug distributors over the opioid crisis begins in West Virginia federal court

A trial involving three major prescription opioid distributors began Monday in federal court in West Virginia, the outcome of which could set the tone for future litigation related to the nationwide opioid crisis.

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Cheney: What Trump did 'is a line that cannot be crossed'

Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, the No. 3 House Republican, said on Monday her party cannot accept the "poison" of the idea that the 2020 election was stolen and should not "whitewash" the January 6 Capitol riot -- and Donald Trump's role in fomenting it.

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Biden raises refugee cap to 62,500 after blowback

The Biden administration will raise the refugee ceiling to 62,500 people this fiscal year, the White House confirmed, after receiving swift criticism last month when President Joe Biden kept the lower Trump-era cap in place.

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Biden team may partner with private firms to monitor extremist chatter online

The Biden administration is considering using outside firms to track extremist chatter by Americans online, an effort that would expand the government's ability to gather intelligence but could draw criticism over surveillance of US citizens.

Covid-19 caused one in three deaths in Brazil so far this year

Since this year began, one third of all people who've died in Brazil were victims of Covid-19.

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You can now buy a seat on a Blue Origin rocket

Blue Origin, the Jeff Bezos-backed space tourism venture, will soon begin selling tickets for its rocket. The company made the announcement in a nearly minute-long video featuring Bezos himself. It points people to Blue Origin's website, which features a sign-up page for more information scheduled to be released May 5. Neither price nor dates were released Thursday.

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China orders Tencent and other big tech firms to curb their finance businesses

Chinese regulators have ordered more than a dozen tech companies to fix the most "prominent problems" of their financial units, escalating a historic crackdown on the sector that has already engulfed some of the country's top players.

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Amazon profit soars more than 200% in the first quarter

Amazon's profits more than tripled in the first quarter of 2021, as the pandemic continued to boost its online retail, cloud and advertising businesses.

Social media is a lifeline for desperate Indians. And a threat for Narendra Modi

On most days, Network Capital, a business networking group with over 67,000 members on Facebook, focuses on providing its community with information on job vacancies, higher education, and careers.

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Why banning political discussions at work is flawed

Late last month, Basecamp, a project management software company, banned "societal and political discussions" at work. Given the company's relatively small size, the decision might have gone by with little notice, but its founders have made a name for themselves over the years as progressive thought leaders.

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TikTok has a new CEO

TikTok has finally appointed a new permanent chief executive, eight months after its former leader called it quits as the United States was threatening to ban the app.

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Facebook says decision on whether Trump ban will be overturned coming Wednesday

The Facebook Oversight Board will announce its long-anticipated decision on the fate of former President Trump's Facebook account at 9 a.m. ET on Wednesday, it announced Monday morning.

Billie Eilish shows off a new look on the cover of British Vogue

Billie Eilish is trading in her baggy pants and hoodies for catsuits and corsets. Featured on the cover of British Vogue, the 19-year-old sported a new wardrobe showing off her form, shortly after ditching her green hair for blonde.

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Alex Trebek's widow Jean on his philanthropy and legacy

Jean Trebek sees a great lesson in how her late husband continued to work even while he struggled with pancreatic cancer.

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Rebel Wilson got 'some bad news' and feels those struggling with fertility

Rebel Wilson had to share over the weekend. The "Pitch Perfect" star posted on her official Instagram account, writing, "I got some bad news today and didn't have anyone to share it with ... but I guess I gotta tell someone."

'It'll crash tremendously': Alberta now leads Canada and U.S. in per capita COVID-19 cases

Alberta is now reporting the highest number of COVID-19 cases per capita in all of Canada and the United States.

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Young political leaders team up to support millennial and Gen Z Democrats ahead of 2022

In a push to galvanize young Democrats to run for office, a political action committee focused on electing young, down-ballot candidates in swing districts announced Monday a national campaign to support 50 millennial and Gen Z candidates under the age of 45 ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.

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Biden touts education funding in infrastructure proposal in visit to Virginia schools: 'We're in a race' with other nations

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden visited an elementary school and community college in Virginia on Monday to promote the President's sweeping economic proposals and how they would benefit schools if signed into law.

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Now is a great time to sell your old car. Used car sales are soaring

If you've got a car you don't use very much, congratulations. You've got gold in your garage. With the auto industry thrown into disarray by shortages of computer chips and other components needed to build cars and trucks, shoppers are regularly paying nearly full sticker price for new vehicles. Thinning supplies of factory-fresh new cars have also made it difficult for some shoppers to find the new vehicle they want with the paint color and options they're looking.

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Four families separated at the US-Mexico border under Trump to be reunited this week

Four migrant families separated at the US-Mexico border under the Trump administration will be reunited this week, the Department of Homeland Security announced Monday, marking the first reunifications under President Joe Biden.

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'American Idol' features a Disney songbook night

"American Idol" featured a Disney night on Sunday, with 10 artists from Season 18 given a second chance to win the final spot in the Top 10.

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Not reaching herd immunity by the fall could have dire consequences, medical expert says

About 2.4 million people in the United States are now receiving Covid-19 vaccinations daily, but one medical expert thinks the nation may not reach herd immunity this year if more people can't be persuaded to get a shot.

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The Covid-19 hospital in India so bad patients want to get out

For three days, Goldi Patel, 25, went from hospital to hospital in New Delhi's oppressive summer heat, frantically trying to find one that would keep her husband breathing.

Fund created for family of 17-yo killed in crash

The communities of Idaho Falls and Shelley are mourning the loss of a 17-year-old who was killed in a crash Friday.

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Three-time Indy 500 winner Bobby Unser dies at 87

Bobby Unser, winner of the 1968, 1975 and 1981 Indianapolis 500s, passed away Sunday at the age of 87 at his New Mexico home.

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Revel saw a loophole as an opportunity for a new ridehail service. New York City is absolutely livid

Back in 2018, New York City regulators, tired of vehicles from Uber and Lyft making some streets so clogged that cars had to drive slower than streetcars and buggies once had, cracked down and said they would temporarily block new for-hire licenses. But in a fit of environmental-minded well-meaning, they left a loophole for electric cars. Now an upstart company is trying to use that loophole to bring new cars into Manhattan.

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2 killed and 7 injured in overnight shootings in New Orleans

Two shootings in New Orleans overnight left two people dead and seven others injured, police said Sunday. The first shooting happened in the city's Fifth District shortly before midnight. Officers found five victims with gunshot wounds, the New Orleans Police Department said.

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Los Angeles Times names ESPN's Kevin Merida as its new top editor

The Los Angeles Times has its new top editor: Kevin Merida of ESPN will start as executive editor in June, the paper announced Monday.

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Mom of teen killed in crash: ‘I didn’t even get to see her in her prom dress’

Jody Conaway’s world turned upside down on Saturday when she found out her daughter, Kalen Hart, and Hart’s boyfriend, Lendon Byram, would not make it over for pictures before prom.

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Cheney calls out Trump's latest attempt to promote 'BIG LIE' amid criticism from within her own party

Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, the No. 3 House Republican, publicly rejected former President Donald Trump's most recent false charge that he would've won the 2020 election if not for "fraudulent" votes, her latest rebuke of the former president that has put her at odds with many members of her own party.

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Family of Andrew Brown Jr. remembers his life and calls for justice in his death at his funeral

The family of Andrew Brown Jr. gathered at a church in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, on Monday for the funeral of the 42-year-old father and grandfather fatally shot by sheriff's deputies two weeks ago.

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Beer Bros raising money for modified vehicle for 2-yo

The Beer Bros of Mass. are back to help the community. Western Mass News first introduced you to the group back in December when they were kicking off their calendar sales to help a local food pantry.

Old Wall Street wisdom about selling in May no longer makes sense

It's the first trading day of May for the stock market. And guess what? Investors should ignore the dumb, antiquated saying about selling in May and going away.

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Travis Scott Announces Return of Astroworld Festival, Expands to Two Days This November // Tickets On Sale May 5

Back To Back Sellouts Without A Lineup Announcement

Texas-born, GRAMMY Award-nominated, and multi-platinum hip-hop artist Travis Scott is proud to announce that his Astroworld Festival will officially return this coming fall on Friday, November 5 and Saturday, November 6 at NRG Park in Houston, Texas. The third annual music festival is expanding to two days this year due to overwhelming demand as well as rave reviews around the festival’s incredibly curated lineup personally selected by Scott, and an experience that fans have now come to expect from his one-of-a-kind music festival.

Community Members Encouraged to “Name Our Library”

Name your library! Houston Public Library Executive Director Rhea Lawson, Vice Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum and the library naming committee are inviting the community to participate in the naming of the new state-of-the-art library to be located at 5505 Belrose Drive, Houston, TX 77035.