Stories for April 2021

Friday, April 30

Tease photo

Astros Sends Early Message To American League Champions

The Astros got a small piece of revenge on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays. Although it was just a regular season game, Houston may have still had the feelings they felt the last time the two teams met in Game 7 of the 2020 American League Championship Series.

Tease photo

Staycation at The Renovated Hyatt Regency Houston

STAYCATIONS ARE HAUTE: A staycation, or holistay, is a period in which an individual or family stays in their city and participates in leisure activities within day trip distance of their home.

As the world continues to open back up – as safely as possible – many are looking to escape the worries of last year by traveling to a destination other than home. And since many are still unsure about travel via air (...and understandably so), in-city ‘staycations’ are a cost-efficient desirable option for you to consider. Or perhaps, if you live in a neighboring city to Houston – come on over, the food and hospitality is like no other!

Tease photo

The Open House: With Realtor Falyn Davis Client Testimony Time

Welcome back to The Open House. I want you to close your eyes and imagine just for a moment that you had a person who anticipate all of your housing needs and even most of your wants, then made it happnen!

Tease photo

The Census, Redistricting and The Republican Conspiracy

Forty years ago, those who wanted to amend the U.S. Constitution to eliminate the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments, along with any other provi- sions that extended democracy to “we the people,” were calling for a Constitutional Convention. Today, that approach is no longer necessary since those who still want to make those stated changes have found new ways to accomplish the same old goals.

Tease photo

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee Secures a $900,000 Settlement From ITC - Due to Deer Park Explosion

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee settled a lawsuit with Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) for $900,000 in connection with the 2019 Deer Park fire. Two years ago, a fire erupted at ITC’s bulk liquid terminal when a tank containing a flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture caught fire, eventually spreading to additional tanks. The fire created a plume over the entirety of the City of Houston before the fire was extinguished days later. The fire made national news and closed local schools and businesses.

Tease photo

Accountability Does Not Equal Justice

Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer who killed George Floyd, has been declared guilty. The job of this jury is done. But, the job of those who seek justice is not.

Tease photo

The Case for 'DC' Statehood Is Clear

Last week, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 51, a bill that would make Washington, D. C., the 51st state of the union. It would finally end the denial of voting representation to its more than 700,000 residents, the majority of whom are black or brown.

Tease photo

Houston Style Magazine Honors Mothers Who Serve the Community - Dee Moore

Fat is one of the ugliest words in the English language for the negative connotation it carries as far as Dee Moore is concerned. For the majority of her life she has been a woman with curves. Like most plus size women, she has endured a lot of pain being the butt of jokes and focus of judgmental eyes. Moore got criticism from everywhere but what hurt most was criticism she received from men who were suppose to love her. The constant disrespect greatly damaged her self esteem until one day she had enough. No longer would Moore allow words to damage her self-worth. She would remove the power those words had over her and other women as well.

Tease photo

Houston Style Magazine Honors Mothers Who Serve the Community - Angelee Moody Rhyne

You can adopt a child, a pet, and even a highway. Angelee Moody Rhyne decided to adopt a park. One day she had a meeting with someone at the Marian Park to discuss plans for a Back-to- School. In her mind the park would be an ideal location since at one point she frequented the park regularly. However, that was many years ago. She had no idea the state that she would find the park in today. She was just applauded at how the park had gone down.

Thursday, April 29

Tease photo

100 BIPOC-Owned Small Businesses In Houston Receive $1 Million In Grants From Comcast RISE

More Than 150 Others To Receive A Technology Makeover or Marketing Services

Comcast this week announced it will award $1,000,000 in grants to 100 BIPOC-owned small businesses, which includes Hispanic and Asian American owned businesses among others, in Houston. More than 150 businesses in the area will also receive technology and marketing resources. These recipients are part of nearly 2,500 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been selected as Comcast RISE awardees since November. Houston was one of five cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, and Philadelphia, selected to award $10,000 grants to 100 local businesses from the Comcast RISE Investment Fund, for a total of $5 million across 500 businesses.

Tease photo

Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs Awards $69,800 to projects promoting Neighborhood Cultural Destinations and Resilience Awareness

The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) announces the first grants through the newly designed City’s Initiative (CI) grant program. The seven inaugural awards will support cultural activations in neighborhoods and strengthen community resilience.

Students return to classroom with few weeks left in school year

Thousands of students in the Stockton Unified School District have the opportunity to return to in-person learning on Thursday as the district opens its doors for the first time since the pandemic started.

Texas medical examiner rules in-custody death of Marvin David Scott III a homicide

The in-custody death of Marvin David Scott III in Texas has been ruled a homicide by the Collin County Medical Examiner.

Jimmy Kimmel's interview with the MyPillow CEO got pretty weird

Jimmy Kimmel has interviewed many eccentric guests as the host of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" over the years, but one of his most surreal interviews took place on Wednesday night.

TSA officers confiscate multiple 'cat eyes'

Over the weekend, TSA officers at Lambert International Airport confiscated four "cat eyes" from passengers.

Attorneys for families of police violence tell lawmakers they want 'meaningful' changes in police reform bill

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill and advocates who want to overhaul the nation's policing laws held a series of meetings Thursday searching for legislation that can pass both chambers of Congress, the day after President Joe Biden highlighted the demand for policing reform in his prime-time address.

Here's how long Biden spoke on different issues in the joint address

President Joe Biden spent the majority of his first speech to Congress on Wednesday discussing his economic and infrastructure plans for the nation, his foreign policy vision for America's role in the world and the coronavirus pandemic and other health care issues, according to a CNN analysis of the address.

Tease photo

Biden tells trans Americans he has their back as GOP governors sign more anti-trans bills

President Joe Biden pledged his support for transgender Americans during his address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, telling members of the community he's standing by them at a time when they face a barrage of attacks by GOP-led state legislatures.

Wednesday, April 28

Tease photo

A Multi-Sports Empire Is Preparing Student Athletes To Compete At The Next Level

PSAT Hoops Academy is the future! The Cypress-based elite professional multi-sports development school will provide student-athletes, 3rd-12th grade and post-grad, with access to elite coaching, competition, sports medicine, athletic conditioning, sports development and distinguished NCAA approved academic preparation.

Tease photo

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.

Tease photo

Samsung unveils 'mobile-first' laptops

Samsung is bringing some of the strengths of its flagship Galaxy smartphones over to its notebook line. The company announced on Wednesday four mobile-first PCs that combine the power of a laptop with the responsiveness of its smartphones: the Galaxy Book, Galaxy Book Pro, Galaxy Book Pro 360 and Galaxy Book Odyssey, all of which run on Windows 10 and an Intel processor.

Tease photo

A juror in the Derek Chauvin trial says every day in the courtroom felt like a funeral

The images from inside the courtroom still trouble Brandon Mitchell, juror 52 in the trial against Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd.

Tease photo

Teen killed while riding ATV across busy highway

Family members are beginning to make funeral arrangements after their 14-year-old nephew was killed while riding his ATV Tuesday.

Tease photo

Derek Chauvin's sentencing date is changed to June 25

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who was found guilty of the murder of George Floyd last week, will be sentenced at 2:30 p.m. ET June 25, according to an updated entry on the court docket.

Tease photo

Former fed. prosecutor: Fed authorities may have to prove use of restraint chair in jail was punishment

Clayton County police as well as the Georgia Department of Corrections' policy, only authorize using restraint chairs as a safety measure when an offender is violent or unruly. But at least four times last year, federal investigators claim the sheriff violated those rules and constitutional rights.

Two Spanish journalists and an Irish citizen killed in Burkina Faso

Two Spanish journalists and an Irish citizen have been killed after they were kidnapped during an anti-poaching patrol in Burkina Faso on Monday.

A bad 80-year-old review of 'Citizen Kane' has been unearthed, making 'Paddington 2' officially a better movie

The online reviews database Rotten Tomatoes has unearthed a negative 80-year-old write-up of "Citizen Kane," stripping the cinematic classic of its perfect score among critics and demoting it below movies including "Paddington 2" and "The Terminator."

Microsoft president: This is what technology will be like in 2030

Microsoft had another blowout quarter, a massive acquisition and a noteworthy investment in Georgia, which just passed a controversial bill that restricts voting rights for minorities.

ACE Announces Two Full Scholarships for HBCU Graduates

Online College Will Award One Master's and One Doctoral Education Scholarship for August Term

American College of Education announced today it is offering two full education program scholarships to graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for the August 24, 2021, term.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at The General Public

Cinco de Mayo is coming up, and The General Public is getting ready to have a fiesta in honor of the festive day!

Tuesday, April 27

Tease photo

Astros Put A “Stain” On The Mariners Record Behind Pitching Performance Of Javier

Houston defeated the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday night by a score of 2-0 behind a brilliant pitching performance from starting pitcher Cristian Javier (3-0) who threw a career-high seven scoreless innings in the victory.

Tease photo

Biden picks Texas sheriff who criticized Trump-era policies for ICE director

President Joe Biden will nominate Harris County, Texas, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, a critic of former President Donald Trump's immigration policies, to serve as director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the White House announced Tuesday.

Tease photo

Beyond the Rhetoric : The Night I Met Fred Hampton

It was a typical Monday afternoon during my senior year at the University of Wisconsin when my fellow linebacker, John Borders, prompt down next to my seat. John informed me that he had made another deal with Professor Rosenstein.

Tease photo

ANDRA DAY IN OVER $2 MILLION WORTH OF TIFFANY & CO. DIAMONDS AT THE 2021 ACADEMY AWARDS

Andra Day, nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for The United States vs. Billie Holiday, dazzled in Tiffany & Co. diamonds at the 93rd Academy Awards tonight.

Tease photo

Study says inflammation seen in earliest stages of Parkinson’s disease, and it is different between men and women

New research shows evidence of inflammation in the blood of Parkinson’s disease patients during the earliest stages of the disease, lending support to theories that inflammation is a major driver of PD. The findings, from researchers at the Alabama Udall Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, were published April 13 in npj Parkinson’s Disease, part of the Nature Partner Journal series in partnership with the Parkinson’s Foundation.

NAACP CRISIS MAGAZINE: NATIONAL RECKONING ON RACE CHANGING CORPORATE AND INDIVIDUAL ATTITUDES TOWARDS IMPLICIT BIAS IN AMERICA

Dr. Bryant T. Marks Writes that Whites are More Open to Discussing Race Issues

Bryant T. Marks, Ph.D., one of the nation’s leading implicit bias counselors, writes in the NAACP Crisis Magazine that the nation is opening to more frank, truthful conversations about race and topics like unconscious bias. He also notes that corporate America is demonstrating a new sensitivity towards these issues, including a willingness to relinquish profits for opportunities to improve racial equity and inclusion.

New Study: Texas has No. 19 Lowest Rate of Homelessness

A new study shows Texas has the No. 19 lowest rate of homelessness, while the nation saw an increase in homelessness for the fourth consecutive year.

Kellogg’s Black History Every Month: A Call for Food Justice

Kellogg Company is continuing to celebrate the launch of its campaign, “Kellogg’s Black History Every Month: A Call for Food Justice.”

Houston Museum of African American Culture Events

The Houston Museum of African American Culture is kicking off its outdoor movie series, HMAAC Movies at Sunset, with the Houston premiere and advance screening of IN OUR MOTHERS' GARDENS.

Tease photo

Serving America: In What Context?

In 1735 when the French colonists of Louisiana pursued the Natchez War against Native Americans, they mustered free and enslaved African Americans into two military companies that came to be known as the Corps D'Afrique.

Biden Administration Puts a Stop to Trump-Era Transgender Housing Discrimination

Combatting Gender Inequality in Housing is Critical to Uphold Civil Rights for All

Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge withdrew a Trump-era rule that would allow federally funded single-sex shelters to discriminate against tenants based on gender identity.

Tease photo

AboutThatCar.com: 2021 Cadillac XT4 AWD Sport

We first the test drove the Cadillac XT4 when it debuted in Seattle. The point is that the test drive was structured and on unfamiliar pavement.

Tease photo

Houston and Sugar Land Mayors Unite to Encourage COVID-19 Vaccinations

Mayor Sylvester Turner and Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman will be joined by Fort Bend County Judge KP George, Congressman Al Green and other invited elected officials and community leaders to encourage members of the public to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and help the Greater Houston area achieve herd immunity.

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee Secures $900,000 Settlement from ITC Due to an Explosion at Its Deer Park Facility

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee settled a lawsuit with Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) for $900,000 in connection with the 2019 Deer Park fire. Two years ago, a fire erupted at ITC’s bulk liquid terminal when a tank containing a flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture caught fire, eventually spreading to additional tanks. The fire created a plume over the entirety of the City of Houston before the fire was extinguished days later. The fire made national news and closed local schools and businesses.

Tease photo

Mostyn Law to Award $5,000 On Mother's Day to a Deserving Houston Mom

The “5K for Mother’s Day Giveaway” Now Underway with Majic 102.1

Mostyn Law and 1-800-TruckWreck will honor one Houston-area mother with a $5,000 cash gift through an online contest, staged in conjunction with Majic 102.1 (KMJQ-FM/Houston). Houston-area residents are being asked to nominate moms who have exhibited strength, commitment and love for their family throughout the ups and downs experienced in the last year and to describe how this money would positively impact these moms and their families.

HoustonISD Statement About Playgrounds

Effective immediately, all HISD school playgrounds are open, and recess permitted. Masks must be worn while playing on the equipment and during recess to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Civil Rights and Grassroots Groups Take Action to Halt Mass Displacement in Norfolk

Housing Advocates Aim to Stop Unlawful Evictions and Demolition of Public Housing Community

The city of Norfolk and the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA) are perpetuating residential racial segregation by implementing their unlawful redevelopment plan for public housing in the St. Paul’s Quadrant, according to a motion filed Thursday by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, the Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia, and global law firm Hogan Lovells.

Lone Star College and Partners Receive $651,516 Job-Training Grant

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has awarded Lone Star College in partnership with 801 Ventures-Twelve Stone Transport, BL Technology Inc., BLTI Services, Farouk, McCarthy Holdings Inc., Methodist Hospital Willowbrook, Motiva, Precision Medical Billing, and Watco Companies a $651,516 Skills Development Fund grant. The grant will benefit workers in the Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast area.

How to practice socialization after thriving in isolation

As the vaccination rate rises and COVID-19 restrictions begin to decrease, everyday activities are slowly becoming normal. But for those who have thrived during isolation, the idea of participating in social activities again may be daunting.

Houston Health Department urges action as fetal deaths linked to congenital syphilis surge in Houston-area

The Houston Health Department urges expectant mothers to act now as fetal deaths linked to congenital syphilis surge in the Houston-area.

Tease photo

Bonuses for Teacher Appreciation Week being award to all 4,000 Harmony Public Schools active employees

In appreciation of their extraordinary work in educating the students of Harmony Public Schools while serving their communities during one of the most challenging years for educators ever, Harmony Public Schools will award a $250 bonus to nearly 4,000 employees in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week.

Tease photo

Former CDC director: We can prevent the next pandemic

As the United States and the world continue to struggle in the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic, one truth has emerged -- it didn't have to be nearly this bad.

Tease photo

Skateboarding passersby helps capture burglary suspect

Police say neighbors in a north Portland neighborhood helped them catch a burglar with a lengthy criminal history.

Tease photo

Wall Street's losses on Archegos just topped $10 billion

Losses caused by the collapse of US hedge fund Archegos have topped $10 billion. Swiss bank UBS revealed on Tuesday that it lost $774 million from last month's implosion of Archegos Capital Management, a bigger hit than many analysts expected. The announcement came as Japan's Nomura said it would book losses of $2.9 billion from Archegos, a sharp increase from its initial estimate of $2 billion.

Tease photo

NBA Top Shot customers can't get their money out. Experts are confounded

NBA Top Shot is the hottest NFT marketplace on the planet. It's also got a big problem: Customers are complaining about exceptionally long wait times to get paid from sales of digital tokens that can often cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Tease photo

Garland announces Justice Department investigation into the Louisville Police Department

Attorney General Merrick Garland on Monday announced a Justice Department investigation into the practices of the Louisville Police Department.

Tease photo

Arizona GOP representative struggles to justify state bill that would purge early voting list

An Arizona Republican lawmaker on Friday defended a GOP-sponsored bill that would change the mail-in voting process by arguing that state lawmakers need to "correct problems" regardless of whether there was actual fraud in the 2020 election.

Nearly 70 million Americans have criminal records. We must give them a second chance

An enduring belief in the American dream has powered decades of innovation, inspired generations of entrepreneurs and driven the economic growth of our nation.

Tease photo

How you and your kids can avoid Covid-19 at playgrounds

Playgrounds seem like -- and in many cases are -- a relatively safe pandemic activity, but there are factors that can complicate the issue.

Tease photo

Jay-Z on raising kids with Beyoncé and their quarantine life

Jay-Z rarely gives interviews so when he talks about life and family people listen.

Tease photo

Elon Musk on Mars: 'You might not come back alive'

There may not be a bigger promoter of the idea that humanity should go to Mars than Elon Musk. But Musk is once again in the news for admitting, though not for the first time, the truth about his dream: "A bunch of people probably will die" in the process.

Tease photo

Nevada’s longest-serving firefighter retires after 46 years

The longest-serving firefighter in Nevada wrapped up a 46 years of service with a sendoff at Las Vegas Fire Station 1.

Tease photo

Murkowski challenger wrote in support of 'ex-gay' organization and posts on evils of 'addictive' witchcraft and 'Twilight'

Kelly Tshibaka, a Republican Senate candidate seeking to challenge Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski in 2022, once wrote in support of an "ex-gay" Christian organization that promoted discredited "conversion therapy" and said that homosexuality was caused by "sexual molestation during childhood."

Tease photo

Health officials link 11 non-viral hepatitis cases linked to water products

After working with federal partners, the health district has identified 11 probable cases of acute non-viral hepatitis linked to the consumption of “Real Water” brand alkaline water in Clark County.

Tease photo

GameStop cashes in on Reddit surge with big stock sale

GameStop shares have gone ballistic this year, surging more than 800% thanks to love from Reddit fans betting on a turnaround for the video game retailer. Now, GameStop has cashed in with a sale of more than $550 million in stock.

DC Police department hit by ransomware attack

The Washington Metropolitan Police Department has been the subject of a ransomware attack, according to a source familiar with the incident.

Tease photo

Calls grow louder for police to release bodycam video six days after the fatal shooting of Andrew Brown Jr.

Six days after Andrew Brown Jr. was fatally shot by police, protesters gathered again Monday to call for the release of the police body camera footage they hope will answer questions surrounding his death.

Tease photo

US says Iran's Navy harassed Coast Guard in Persian Gulf earlier this month

Four ships from the Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps harassed the US Coast Guard operating in the Persian Gulf earlier this month, with one of the ships repeatedly crossing in front of the US patrol boats at very close range despite multiple warnings, the US Navy said.

Tease photo

First Black woman to be North Carolina Supreme Court chief justice announces Senate bid

Cheri Beasley, the first Black woman to be North Carolina Supreme Court chief justice, launched her 2022 Senate campaign on Tuesday, seeking to break another barrier as the state's first Black senator.

Tease photo

'Don't use my skin for your diversity': Labor union blasts newsrooms for underpaying women and people of color

"I remember the punched-in-the-gut feeling I had the moment I learned that a young male reporter with just a few years of experience had nearly the exact same salary that I had, despite my two decades as a working journalist."

Tease photo

Diane Warren takes being Oscars most-nominated woman with no wins in stride

Diane Warren is not upset about losing out on an Oscar. Or 12 of them. The famed songwriter lost her 12th nomination at the 93rd Academy Awards on Sunday, making her the most-nominated woman in the history of the Oscars who has never won.

Donald Trump made *7* times more misleading statements than Joe Biden in his first 100 days

With Donald Trump's presidency in the rear-view mirror, there's a natural human tendency to sort of forget about what he did to the nation's highest office. Let's look to the future -- and all that.

Monday, April 26

Tease photo

Rockets Guard John Wall Ruled Out For The Remainder Of The Season With Injury

Bad news has plagued the Houston Rockets this season and on Monday they were hit by the injury bug once again as veteran point guard John Wall will miss the remainder of the 2020-21 NBA season with a right hamstring strain. Rockets General Manager Rafael Stone made the announcement after an MRI that was performed by Dr. Steve Flores of Memorial Hermann revealed the injury

Tease photo

Biden and top officials set for nationwide travel blitz after prime-time address

President Joe Biden's joint address to Congress may stand as the prime-time marker of his first 100 days in office, but it will also serve as the launch point for an all-out administration-wide blitz to highlight accomplishments -- and the ambitious legislative push ahead.

Places of worship welcome back 100% capacity for first time in more than a year

Even though the state said churches could allow everyone back, the Archbishop of Santa Fe is asking priests to limit the crowds and stay with the color-coded risk level their county is in, but others are ready to welcome back their congregation.

Firefighter inspires bill to help families impacted by work-related disability or illness

The legacy of a Lenexa firefighter who passed away from cancer is living on with new legislation in Kansas.

Gulf Shores man gets five years for child pornography conviction

A federal judge on Monday imposed a five-year prison sentence on a Gulf Shores man who copped to thousands of images of child pornography.

Inside Biden's make-or-break first 100 days battling the Covid pandemic

For the last 100 days, President Joe Biden and his top advisers have mounted an urgent, wartime effort to get millions of coronavirus vaccines into the arms of Americans in order to beat back a pandemic that has upended the world for the better part of year.

Tease photo

A Texas hospital system will require employees to get the Covid-19 vaccine and could fire them if they don't comply

A hospital system in Houston is requiring all of its employees to get vaccinated against Covid-19, making it one of the first major hospital systems in the US to mandate vaccination among employees and move to fire them if they don't comply.

Two die and more than 100 test positive in coronavirus outbreak among US diplomatic staff in India

There has been a major coronavirus outbreak among US diplomatic staff in India with two locally employed staff dying and more than 100 people testing positive in recent weeks as the country struggles to cope with a dramatic surge of the deadly disease, two sources familiar with the situation told CNN.

Frances McDormand's third Oscar win puts her one step closer to most honored best actress

(CNN) -- Frances McDormand's third Oscar win puts her nearly in a league of her own.

'Master of None' return date set at Netflix -- with a twist

"Master of None," the acclaimed Aziz Ansari-led Netflix comedy, is returning for Season 3 -- but it's unclear how much Aziz Ansari will appear at all.

How to update your medical record so it includes your Covid-19 vaccination

Getting vaccinated against Covid-19 and receiving a vaccination card has become a rite of passage for many Americans who have endured the pandemic for the last year.

Armed men stormed her school in a kidnapping raid. Then she found her family in her captors' hideout

Habiba Iliyasu, 15, was asleep in her school dormitory in northwestern Nigeria when a group of armed men burst in and ordered her and her schoolmates out of bed.

Apple may soon have company in the $2 trillion market cap club

Apple is the only American company to reach a $2 trillion market value. But it could soon have a lot more company in that elite club.

SRO seizes drugs, pellet gun, real ammunition from car outside school

A school resource officer in Frederick County uncovered drugs, a pellet gun and real ammunition while investigating a man who was found asleep in a car on campus, the sheriff's office said.

Thousands sign petition for an empty seat at graduation for student who died by suicide

Anna Zamenski and Julia McCarthy met in kindergarten and grew up as best friends. This year, the girls would have graduated high school together, but Julia died by suicide just before their sophomore year.

Oscars deliver a surprising truth

Covid-19 wasn't the only reason the 93rd Academy Awards ceremony felt different from its predecessors. It made me wonder whether our expectations for what a movie is, or isn't, still matter.

Dozens of protesters march through downtown Jackson calling for end to gun violence

As violence continues in Mississippi's capital city, dozens of protesters marched through downtown Jackson on Sunday in search of an end to gun violence.

US to begin sharing AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine doses soon

The United States plans to share millions of doses of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine with other countries in the coming months, the White House announced on Monday.

Florida ‘church’ leader accused of selling toxic bleach marketed as COVID-19 'miracle cure'

A Florida man and his three sons have been indicted on federal charges alleging they sold tens of thousands of bottles of bleach that were marketed as a "miracle cure" for COVID-19.

Tease photo

Oscars notches its lowest ratings in the show's history

Hollywood's biggest night was also it's smallest night ever. The 93rd Academy Awards tried to cover for a lost year in film with a boatload of intrigue: A change in venue that allowed for a maskless audience, a movie-style production led by director Steven Soderbergh, and a change in format with a surprise ending. None of that could save the Oscars from turning in the lowest rated telecast in the show's history — by a sizable margin.

Tease photo

Elizabeth City declares state of emergency as Andrew Brown's family prepares to view video of fatal police shooting

A North Carolina city declared a state of emergency Monday morning amid concerns that video showing the police killing of Andrew Brown Jr. could cause civil unrest when it's released to the public.

Tease photo

Liz Cheney on charging Trump: 'That's a decision that the Justice Department is going to have to make'

Rep. Liz Cheney, a top House Republican who voted to impeach Donald Trump earlier this year, said Monday that it should be up to the Justice Department on whether to charge the former president for anything related to his actions on January 6.

Biden will announce new CDC mask guidance Tuesday, sources say

President Joe Biden is expected to announce Tuesday that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its guidance for wearing masks outdoors, three people familiar with the expected announcement said.

Supreme Court won't let Texas immediately defend Trump-era 'public charge' immigration rule

The Supreme Court on Monday denied, for now, a bid by Texas and 13 other states to defend a controversial Trump-era rule that makes it more difficult for immigrants to obtain legal status if they use certain benefits, such as Medicaid, food stamps and housing vouchers.

Tease photo

Supreme Court agrees to take up major Second Amendment case

The Supreme Court announced Monday it will consider the scope of the Second Amendment next term in a case concerning a New York law that restricts an individual from carrying a concealed handgun in public.

Tease photo

Former Rep. Doug Collins, a top ally of former President Donald Trump, announced April 26 he will not run for office in 2022. Mandatory Credit: Graeme Jennings/Pool/Getty Images

The Pentagon is assembling a force of around 650 troops to send to Afghanistan in the coming days to protect US forces as they withdraw from the country, according to several defense officials.

Tease photo

Trump ally Doug Collins will not run for Georgia Senate or governor in 2022

Former Rep. Doug Collins, a top ally of former President Donald Trump, announced Monday he will not run for office in 2022, taking out a potential top-tier candidate for a crucial Georgia race that could determine the future control of the Senate.

Tease photo

House Democrats want to see permanent child tax credit in Biden's second recovery

A group of House Democrats have introduced a bill to permanently expand the child tax credit and want to see it as part of President Joe Biden's recovery plan, a new marker that could complicate the passage of the bill.

Saturday, April 24

Tease photo

Rockets Face Tough Western Conference Foe Without Key Players In The Lineup

"We're very, very banged up going into (Saturday's) game," Coach Silas said in his postgame press conference after the 109-104 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. "I'm not sure what it's going to look like at this point.”

Tease photo

Astros Reliever Has His Coffee Break Interrupted By Major League Debut

“It was wild, Emanuel said of how things transpired before he was inserted into the game. “I had just sat down and opened up a coffee. All of a sudden they were like, ‘Hey, you better start loosening up. I was like…here we go.”

Rockets Tad Brown Announces Transition from Role as CEO Following End of 2020-21 Season

Houston Rockets Chief Executive Officer Thaddeus “Tad” Brown today announced he will transition from his role at the end of the season. Brown originally joined the Rockets as their Vice President of Corporate Development for the 2002-03 season and was named CEO in October of 2006.

Tease photo

Garcia Gets Revenge On His Former Team As The Astros Win In Extra Innings

“It was super fun,” said Garcia, who is working his way back into game shape as he had to sit out games due to being placed in health and safety protocol by MLB. “It was the first time I had a walk-off, so it was a great experience for me, just the trust the manager had in me in that spot and the coaches and teammates, as well.”

Friday, April 23

Tease photo

The Home Buyers ‘Roadtrip’ To Buying Your Home

Welcome back to The Open House. Oftentimes I get questioned about the home buying process.

Tease photo

All-New Air-Tag and New 24” iMac Featuring Stunning Design In A Spectrum Of Vibrant Colors, M1 Chip and 4.5K Retina Display and A New iPhone 12 and A Mini In Stunning Purple

Apple this week introduced AirTag, a small and elegantly designed accessory that helps keep track of and find the items that matter most with Apple’s Find My app. Whether attached to a handbag, keys, backpack, or other items, AirTag taps into the vast, global Find My network1 and can help locate a lost item, all while keeping location data private and anonymous with end-to-end encryption. AirTag can be purchased in one and four packs for just $29 and $99, respectively, and will be available beginning Friday, April 30

Tease photo

Mayor Turner’s Statement On ExxonMobil’s Carbon Capture and Storage Project

This week, ExxonMobil announced a $100 billion Carbon Capture and Storage project.

Tease photo

BLACK LOVE Returns For 5th Season: Friday, May 14 • 9PM

This Season Celebrates Prominent Couples in the Black Community -- Keith David and Wife Dionne, Chance and Tabitha Brown, Ja- son Bolden and Adair Curtis, Kenny Lattimore and Faith Jenkins, Ledisi and

Oprah Winfrey Network announced this week the fifth season of its popular and ground-breaking four-time NAACP nominated docu-se- ries “Black Love” will premiere on Friday, May 14 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. “Black Love” makes its return to Friday nights where it will join OWN’s dating series “Ready to Love.” During its previous run on Fridays, the series which celebrates love stories from the Black community, was ranked #1 in its time slot across all cable with African American W25-54.

Tease photo

The Verdict, The Nation, Us

The conviction of Derek Chauvin on all three counts in the death of George Floyd represents a much- needed breeze of change, but it is neither the storm or whirlwind needed to correct the malignant, cancerous attitude of law enforcement against not only Black men and women and people of color, but a society which says it’s alright to be judge, jury and executioner of those having contact with police in particular.

Tease photo

The Ion Launches Aerospace Innovation Accelerator To Empower BIPOC Entrepreneurs

With Partners NASA and DivInc, The Ion Is Creating New Pathways For Houston’s Economic Resilience and Expanding Access to Careers in Aerospace

The Ion, Houston’s new innovation hub, today an- nounced the launch of its Aerospace Innovation Accelerator for Minority Business Enterprises (AIA for MBEs). The AIA for MBEs develops Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) owned busi- nesses tackling aerospace-related challenges.

Tease photo

Community Leaders Speak Out On Verdict in George Floyd Murder Trial

This week, a jury in Minneapolis did the right thing. For almost a year, George Floyd’s death under the knee of a police officer has reverberated around the world — inspiring murals and marches, sparking conversations in living rooms and new legislation. But a more basic question has always remained: would justice be done?

Tease photo

Republicans Posture As The Party Of Working People

The debate over Joe Biden’s $2 tril- lion American Infrastructure Plan is heating up – and getting more and more unhinged. Republicans are railing against the president for asking for too much. They promise a filibuster against the bill unless there is a bipartisan agree- ment – on their terms.

Tease photo

Why Derek Chauvin Was Convicted, When So Many Other Police Are Not

When police officers kill a person, they are rare- ly charged with a crime. It’s even more rare for a jury to convict an officer for murder or manslaughter. So, what made Derek Chauvin’s case different?

Thursday, April 22

Debris falling from overpass damages multiple cars, police investigate

Nearly a dozen cars were damaged Wednesday as a result of objects falling from a Cobb County overpass.

'Will be the future': Canadian billionaire develops one-seat electric vehicle to fight traffic woes

A Canadian billionaire is developing a new vehicle he believes could solve congestion issues on city streets.

Man kills 11-year-old daughter, then takes his own life at park, police say

Gwinnett County Police police said they are investigating a murder and suicide involving a man and his daughter that occurred inside Lawrenceville’s Bethesda Park this past weekend.

Tease photo

House passes bill that would grant DC statehood

The House of Representatives voted on Thursday to pass a bill that would grant statehood to Washington, DC, a Democratic priority that faces obstacles to final passage even with the party now in control of both chambers of Congress and the White House. The party line vote was 216-208.

LeBron James deleted a tweet about Ma'Khia Bryant's killing but repeats call for accountability

LeBron James tweeted, then deleted, a post about the killing of 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant at the hands of Columbus police.

Daunte Wright's funeral is underway, marking another emotional day for a city reeling from police violence

Mourners were gathering in Minneapolis on Thursday to honor the life of Daunte Wright, the Black motorist fatally shot by a Minnesota police officer this month during an arrest attempt.

Nominees for USPS Board of Governors say they haven't been pressured about DeJoy

President Joe Biden's trio of US Postal Service Board of Governors nominees said Thursday they have not made any commitments or been pressured about the potential firing of embattled Trump-era Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.

Jim Clyburn says he was fined for avoiding metal detectors off the House floor

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn told CNN that he was fined for violating the procedure of going through the metal detectors installed off the House floor, the first Democrat to receive such a fine.

Tease photo

Army vet waiting on justice years after losing leg, hit by alleged DUI driver

“The day started off normal. I went to work that morning and decided to hang out with a couple of my friends on the bike. Everything was all good until it wasn’t good anymore.”

Tease photo

Macy's Backstage Opens Additional Locations in Houston Area This May Offering Off-Price, On-Trend Styles and More

Macy’s will open 47 Backstage stores nationwide in 2021, including two Macy’s locations within Macy’s Deerbrook and Macy’s Almeda stores

Macy’s will open its off-price store, Macy’s Backstage, at Macy’s Deerbrook and Macy’s Almeda locations this May, joining three store-within-store locations in the Houston market. Macy’s Backstage offers fashion-loving customers another way to shop at their favorite store by providing a store-within-store shopping experience specifically designed for the savvy and cost-conscious shopper who enjoys finding on-trend fashion at a great price and shops often. With so many ways to shop, from Macy’s app or macys.com to visiting your local Macy’s for inspiration or enjoying contact-free curbside pick-up, scoring the best deals and must-have trends for spring has never been easier.

Wednesday, April 21

Tease photo

Bats Don't Warm Up For The Astros As They Lose 6-3 To The Rockies

Most Houston Astros fans couldn’t believe what they were seeing on Wednesday as the Astros took on the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field in Denver. Most witnessed Houston drop their ninth game out of the last ten played by a score of 6-3 to the Rockies to put them at three games under .500 for the season at 7-10 and place them in the bottom of the American League West.

Tease photo

2021 Cricket Wireless SWAC Football Championship Relocated

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) has announced that the upcoming 2021 Cricket Wireless SWAC Football Championship presented by Pepsi Zero Sugar initially scheduled to be played on the campus of the highest ranked team at the conclusion of regular season play has been relocated.

Texas House approves bill allowing election judges to carry a gun in most polling places

The Texas House on Tuesday passed legislation that would allow election judges to carry a handgun in most polling places on Election Day and during the early voting period.

Tease photo

Astros, Maldonado Agree To Contract Extension

The Astros and catcher Martin Maldonado have agreed to a one-year contract extension, General Manager James Click announced today.

Tease photo

Republican Lisa Murkowski breaks ranks to advance Biden's associate attorney general nominee Vanita Gupta

The Senate narrowly voted to advance the nomination of President Joe Biden's nominee to be associate attorney general, Vanita Gupta, setting up a final vote expected later Wednesday despite fierce opposition from most Republican senators.

Tease photo

Netflix needs a Next Big Thing

Netflix is synonymous with streaming, but its competitors have a distinct advantage that threatens the streaming leader's position at the top.

Tease photo

Nervous about socializing in the office again? Here's how to break the ice

The idea of returning to the office can conjure up a lot of emotions. Fear. Excitement. Nervousness. Anticipation. Ambivalence.

Trump's dominance spells trouble for the GOP

Others have said it, but since top Republicans haven't taken it to heart, the message bears repeating: With all due respect, you've got to quit Donald Trump. For your own sake, and the country's, cancel your reservations at Mar-a-Lago. Block his number. And whatever you do, don't fall for any of his old tricks.

Biden calls for businesses to give paid time off for employees to get vaccinated as he touts 200 million shots

President Joe Biden on Wednesday touted the United States administering 200 million coronavirus vaccine shots since he took office and urged businesses to give their employees paid time off to get vaccinated,

Tuesday, April 20

Tease photo

Derek Chauvin found guilty of all three charges for killing George Floyd

The former Minneapolis Police officer who kneeled on George Floyd's neck for over 9 minutes last year was found guilty Tuesday of all three charges against him in one of the most consequential trials of the Black Lives Matter era.

Tease photo

The US is vaccinating millions of Americans daily. But here's why Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations are up

Experts say Covid-19 vaccinations in the US are continuing at an impressive pace, and now all Americans 16 and up can get a shot. But a leading health official said that the country remains in a "complicated stage" of the pandemic.

Tease photo

Chad's President Idriss Deby killed in frontline clashes with rebels, state TV reports

Chad's long-serving President Idriss Deby has died from injuries sustained in clashes with rebels, the army said in a surprise announcement Tuesday, plunging a volatile region deeper into crisis.

1 killed, 2 injured in a grocery shooting in West Hempstead, New York, police say

A shooting at a Long Island grocery store Tuesday left one employee dead and two other people wounded, and investigators are looking for the shooter, police said.

Tease photo

Two Canadian railroads launch bidding war for rare access to Mexico

All aboard! There's a bidding war in the railroad industry. Canadian National is offering to buy Kansas City Southern for $33.7 billion, topping a $25 billion bid from rival Canadian Pacific.

Tease photo

Biden suggests the evidence in Chauvin trial is 'overwhelming': 'I'm praying that the verdict is the right verdict'

President Joe Biden, breaking his careful silence about the eventual outcome in the trial of Derek Chauvin, said Tuesday he was "praying the verdict is the right verdict" and suggested there was ample evidence for the jury to consider as they determine whether the former Minneapolis police officer is guilty of murdering George Floyd

Darth Vader 'Star Wars' script reveals how huge secret was preserved

A script for "Star Wars: Episode V -- The Empire Strikes Back" reveals how a pivotal plot twist in the movie franchise was considered to be such a secret that it was not reflected in the lines provided to actors.

Tease photo

Judge resigns after admitting to using n-word and saying all lives matter while at work

Colorado District Judge Natalie Chase has resigned after she admitted using a racial slur in front of court employees, voiced her opinion on racial issues from the bench and asked employees to do personal tasks for her during work hours.

Tease photo

Disinfecting surfaces to prevent Covid often all for show, CDC advises

The risk of surface transmission of Covid-19 is low, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday. Far more important is airborne transmission -- and people who obsessively disinfect surfaces may be doing more harm than good..

A judge declined to toss the federal sentence of ex-officer Michael Slager in fatal Walter Scott shooting

A federal judge Monday declined to toss out the prison sentence of a former South Carolina police officer who fatally shot an unarmed Black man in the back in 2015.

What the Chauvin judge got so wrong about Maxine Waters

Judge Peter Cahill was way, way out of line to suggest Monday that the words of Rep. Maxine Waters -- one of many leaders calling for protests against police killings and racial injustice -- violated her oath of office and might somehow poison the murder trial of Derek Chauvin.

Monday, April 19

Tease photo

Astros Need To Readjust As They Head To Colorado

As the Houston Astros prepare to take on the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday, they have a lot of issues that have led up to their 1-7 record in the last eight games. In the 7-2 loss to the Seattle Mariners on Sunday it was the issue with the bats again as the Astros were only able to muster up one hit which came on an error by left fielder Jose Marmolejos. It was also the lack of being able to get out of jams in certain innings.

Sunday, April 18

Tease photo

Rockets Defeat The Magic On Hot Shooting From Three-Point Range

No matter how few and far between they have come, the Houston Rockets enjoy every victory they get. After defeating the Dallas Mavericks at home, the Rockets lost five games in a row, but was able to get a much-needed win on Sunday to break the losing streak with a win over the Orlando Magic by a score of 114-110.

Friday, April 16

Tease photo

Road Trip May Help Bring Some Life Back To The Astros

The Astros are doing what everyone of us does when we seem to be in a funk at work or at home. They are headed on a road trip that will hopefully bring them better results than their last homestand. Houston went 1-5 against the Oakland A’s and Detroit Tigers who were led by their former manager A.J. Hinch.

Tease photo

Houston Needs To Speak Up Against Denver

Communication is the one thing that was missing on the defensive end on Wednesday night when the Indiana Pacers defeated the Houston Rockets 132-124 at Toyota Center. During his pregame press conference, Rockets head coach Stephen Silas elaborated on how much he emphasized it to the team.

Tease photo

WE RUN THE WORLD!: Virtual Fundraiser Showcasing Harris County’s Talent, Diversity, Elected Officials & Grassroot Organizations

Suffice it to say, it’s been a tough year. Finally, we can see faint lights at the end of the tunnel. Isn’t it time to take a break, a breather, a sabbatical from politics...at least for a moment? No. We simply cannot afford to do that.

Tease photo

Viola Davis Premieres On OWN: Friday, April 16 • 9PM

OWN announced today “OWN Spotlight: Viola Davis” to air Friday, April 16 at 10 pm ET/ PT on OWN. Continuing conversations surrounding issues impacting Black lives, Oprah talks to Oscar, Emmy and Tony Award-Winning actress Viola Da- vis about her role as fearless blues singer Ma Rainey in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” available on Netflix now. In the film, tensions and temperatures rise at a Chicago music studio in 1927 when fiery blues singer Ma Rainey joins her band for a recording session.

Tease photo

One Year Without Knocking

March 2021 not only brought back a plethora of bitter and sweet memories, it also reminded us that life as we know it had changed for the foreseeable future, and for some, life changed forever. One thing that you may have noticed, is the absence of a knock on your door by a familiar group.

Tease photo

How To Prepare Finances To Buy Your First Home

The Open House: With Realtor Falyn Davis

Welcome back to The Open House. Are you tired of rent- ing? Do you want to own your own place, but don’t know where to start? Well, this week’s topic is for you: How To Prepare To Buy Your First Home. When I bought my first home, I didn’t know what the process looked like. Between the pre-approval, finding the right home, all the fees and closing costs...I was a bit overwhelmed.Welcome back to The Open House. Are you tired of rent- ing? Do you want to own your own place, but don’t know where to start? Well, this week’s topic is for you: How To Prepare To Buy Your First Home.

Tease photo

Money Talk: The Conversations Everyone Needs to Have

People tend to tiptoe around the subjects of politics, religion, race, estate planning, physical & mental health and finances. But why are so many silent on these very crucial topics. It is not as if not talking about them will diminish their importance or will make the need for the conversations to disappear from our life. In fact, not talking about finances just creates a larger problem. Stop skating around the issue of finances and start the money talk conversations that everyone needs to have during Financial Literacy Month.

Tease photo

Black Males and Police Encounters

While many of us are reliving the murder of George Floyd through the trial of Derek Chauvin for his murder, we are getting con- stant reminders that police abuse and murder of Black men and women continues with no lessons learned. Sunday’s “murder” of Daunte Wright in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, should never have happened over a traffic stop or any nonviolent police encounter.

Tease photo

Houston Health Officials Pause the Distribution of J&J Vaccine

Apprehension about getting inoculated for COVID-19 has just increased in many individuals after the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was paused by officials of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Research is being done to look into the cause of six women who developed dangerous blood clots with one of them dying after having received the single-dose.

Tease photo

George Floyd Justice in Policing Act Would Set National Standards for Police Behavior

Even as Derek Chauvin is on trial for the murder of George Floyd, police 10 miles away fatally shot an African American man, Duante Wright, after pulling him over for an alleged traffic violation. That triggered protests that led to confrontations with police, despite Wright's family pleading for non-violence. The Washington Post reports that 985 people have been shot and killed by police in the past year, with blacks more than two times as likely to be shot and killed than whites. Fundamental reform is long overdue.

Tease photo

Breaking: Brooklyn Officer Kim Potter Charged with 2nd Degree Manslaughter

A police officer who authorities say shot and killed a Black man in a Minneapolis suburb after a traffic stop has been arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter in the case, authorities said Wednesday.

Thursday, April 15

How the ugly, racist White 'replacement theory' came to Congress

Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Scott Perry used a House Foreign Affairs Committee meeting on Wednesday to spread an ugly, racist theory that "native-born" (read: White) Americans are being purposely replaced by immigrants as a way to alter the culture of the country.

Our beautiful Asian faces are not going anywhere

"Hollywood isn't for me, it's for Americans." It's a thought that crossed my mind as I started to fall in love with performing at 16-years-old, thinking I'd never stand a chance to make it in show business. Seeing little to no Asian representation brainwashed me into believing that my name could never be in lights. Lucy Liu and Jackie Chan made it -- the ridiculously few spots for people who looked like me were taken. Now we, as a community, are choosing empowerment over competition.

Tease photo

So far, 5,800 fully vaccinated people have caught Covid anyway in US, CDC says

About 5,800 people who have been vaccinated against coronavirus have become infected anyway, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tells CNN.

State: 7,000+ doses invalid or wasted at vaccine clinic

State health officials are urging thousands of Coloradans to get revaccinated after getting doses at Dr. Moma's Health & Wellness Center in Colorado Springs.

Tease photo

Biden administration expected to announce nine career diplomats will be US ambassadors

The Biden administration plans to announce the nominations of nine career diplomats to be United States ambassadors as soon as Thursday, marking the first selection of overseas envoys since President Joe Biden took office, according to an internal list reviewed by CNN.

Chicago police body camera footage to be released in fatal shooting of 13-year-old Adam Toledo

The Chicago Civilian Office of Police Accountability will release body camera footage on Thursday from the fatal police shooting of 13-year-old Adam Toledo last month.

Maxine Waters tells Jim Jordan to 'shut your mouth' after Covid-19 hearing erupts

Republican Rep. Jim Jordan and the nation's top infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci got into a heated exchange Thursday over the country's Covid-19 mitigation measures, which ended with Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters telling Jordan to "shut your mouth."

Chile's vaccination rollout was fast and broad. So why are Covid-19 cases spiking?

It was supposed to be Latin America's bright spot in the fight against Covid-19. Chile, a country of 19 million on the Pacific coast of South America, had gotten a head start on vaccines by making agreements with pharmaceutical companies only months into the pandemic. By the beginning of this year, Chile had reached one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, while other countries in the region had yet to get any vaccines.

Tease photo

De La Ghetto Shares Latest Project "New Calle" - Latin Superstar Pairs with Aspiring Urban Artist to Create New Street Anthem for Latino Millennials

New Song Available Now on Spotify & Companion Music Video on YouTube

Latin Grammy Award-nominated singer/songwriter De La Ghetto is excited to announce the release of a special new project called “New Calle” with a brand new song and an accompanying music video.

Tease photo

Hyundai reveals a new pickup truck, but please don't call it that

While it may have an open cargo bed in the back, Hyundai's new Santa Cruz is not a pickup truck. Or, at least, not according to Hyundai.

Tease photo

Walmart invests in GM's self-driving car company, Cruise

Walmart is investing in GM's self-driving vehicle company, Cruise, as it works to build out its delivery network.

Tease photo

Reese's wants to give you a peanut butter glow up

Reese's is launching its own makeup line — and no, it's not edible.

Tease photo

Mercedes' new electric car has a nap mode and doors that open for you

Mercedes has unveiled its largest and most luxurious electric car yet. The Mercedes EQS is the battery-powered equivalent of the Mercedes S-Class sedan, the brand's flagship model.

Derek Chauvin says he will not testify at trial and testimony ends. Closings are set for Monday

Derek Chauvin invoked his Fifth Amendment right not to testify on Thursday and the defense rested its case as the trial of George Floyd's death neared its final stages. Closing arguments are set for Monday, after which the jury will be sequestered during deliberations.

Tease photo

Protesters gather at Brooklyn Center police station hours after ex-officer is charged in the death of Daunte Wright

For the fourth night in a row, protesters gathered at the Brooklyn Center police station to demonstrate over the killing of 20-year-old Daunte Wright, a Black man, during a traffic stop in the Minneapolis suburb, hours after former police officer Kim Potter was arrested and charged in his death.

Tease photo

Jackie Robinson broke baseball's color barrier but these Black players still faced racism

Ernest Fann never imagined his baseball career would be tainted by racism more than a decade after Jackie Robinson's debut.

Tease photo

House panel advances bill to study reparations for descendants of enslaved Americans

A House committee on Wednesday advanced a bill that would create a commission to study reparations for descendants of enslaved Americans, a major achievement for advocates of reparations as it marks the first time this bill could have a full House vote on the floor.

Tease photo

Colton Underwood filming unscripted series for Netflix

Colton Underwood is returning to reality TV -- but this time on Netflix. The former "Bachelor" star, who for the first time on Wednesday publicly revealed he is gay, is currently in production on an unscripted series for the streaming service, according to a source with knowledge of the project.

Tease photo

What to expect at the Oscars

Amid a global pandemic, shuttered movie theaters and after a two-month delay, next Sunday's 93rd Academy Awards are already poised to feel very different than in previous years.

Tease photo

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez announce breakup in new statement

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez say they are better off as friends.

Tease photo

Secretary of State Blinken visits Afghanistan day after US announces plans for withdrawal

Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday in an unannounced visit to the country where US troops have been fighting for nearly 20 years.

Family of teacher killed in fire: "We always knew she was special"

We are hearing from the family of a Mobile teacher killed Monday night in a house fire. Lillis Lewis was found in her home burning home on Silverwood Street. She was brought to the hospital where she later died. Mobile Fire-Rescue are still looking into the cause.

New book on Pelosi details fraught relationship with AOC and the Squad

It's no secret that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez of New York have had a tense relationship.

Tease photo

The body of an LSU student who went missing a week ago has been found in Mississippi River

The body of missing Louisiana State University student Kori Gauthier has been recovered, according to a joint press release from Baton Rouge Police and LSU Police.

Tease photo

Manslaughter charge in Daunte Wright's death is a 'good initial step,' family lawyer says, as ex-officer is due in court

The family of Daunte Wright -- the Black motorist shot and killed by a Minnesota police officer during an arrest attempt last weekend -- sees a manslaughter charge filed against the officer as a "good initial step" toward justice, a lawyer for the relatives said Thursday.

Tease photo

Derek Chauvin says he will not testify at trial as defense is set to rest

Derek Chauvin said Thursday he will not testify in his own defense in the trial of George Floyd's death and he invoked his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent.

Tease photo

Habitat and species loss leaves just 3% of world's land ecosystems intact, study suggests

Just under 3% of the world's land remains ecologically intact, with undisturbed habitat and minimal loss of its original animal species, a new study suggests.

Tease photo

Biden imposes new sanctions on Russia in response to election interference and cyber hacks

The Biden administration targeted Russia with sweeping sanctions and diplomatic expulsions Thursday, punishing Moscow for its interference in the 2020 US election, its SolarWinds cyberattack and its ongoing occupation and "severe human rights abuses" in Crimea.

Wednesday, April 14

Tease photo

Rockets Hope to Bring Momentum From Their Last Game As They Take On The Indiana Pacers

After a tough 126-120 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Monday, the Houston are back in action against the Indiana Pacers looking to carry some of that defensive intensity they had in the second half of the Suns game where they held one of the highest scoring teams to just 45 points after giving up 81 in the first half.

Tease photo

Astros Make Significant Roster Moves

On Wednesday, the Houston Astros announced the following roster moves had been made according to Astros general manager James Click.

Tease photo

If you've recently had the J&J vaccine, watch for these rare symptoms, CDC says

Have you had the single-shot Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine within the last month?

Tease photo

DOJ nominee Kristen Clarke faces Senate as supporters say civil rights chief is badly needed

Kristen Clarke, President Joe Biden's nominee to lead the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, heads to her Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday as a groundswell of supporters says there's an urgency for Clarke to take office and lead the team of federal prosecutors to address recent allegations of unconstitutional acts across the country, including police killings of unarmed people of color.

Tease photo

Hit crime drama 'Luther' isn't 'authentic,' BBC's diversity chief says

The BBC's diversity chief has said its hit detective series "Luther" is not "authentic" enough.

Tease photo

Biden prepares to leave America's longest war

It's an image President Joe Biden kept returning to: the sight of helicopters evacuating Americans from Saigon during the last major battle of the Vietnam War.

Tease photo

Treasury sets up office to oversee implementation of recovery programs

The Treasury Department is establishing an Office of Recovery Programs to lead the agency's implementation of economic relief measures from three massive congressional coronavirus relief bills.

Tease photo

Former 'Bachelor' star Colton Underwood: 'I'm gay'

Colton Underwood told Robin Roberts on "Good Morning America" that he is gay in an interview that aired Wednesday morning.

Senate pushes bill to combat surge of anti-Asian hate crimes

The Senate is pushing to advance a bill Wednesday that would address the surge of hate crimes against Asian Americans.

Tease photo

Bernie Madoff, infamous Ponzi schemer, has died

Bernard Madoff, whose name became synonymous with financial fraud, died while serving a 150-year sentence in Federal Prison. He was 82 years old.

Tease photo

House committee to vote on bill to grant DC statehood

The House Oversight and Reform Committee is slated to hold a vote on Wednesday to approve a bill that would grant statehood to Washington, DC, a Democratic priority that still faces obstacles for final passage even when the party controls both chambers on Capitol Hill and the White House.

Like it or not, 'woke' Corporate America is here to stay

Conservative lawmakers concerned by the growing list of major corporations taking progressive stances on hot-button political issues should expect more of the same for the foreseeable future.

Atlanta educators approve raises, bonuses for all employees

Atlanta Public School employees will a bigger paycheck after a school board vote.

Tuesday, April 13

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Fast Facts

Here is a look at the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season.

Tease photo

States scramble to halt Johnson & Johnson vaccinations after CDC and FDA recommend pause

States trying to fend off a new, dominant strain of coronavirus have a new challenge: having to stop Johnson & Johnson vaccinations for now.

Why Biden is making more progress on economic than social issues

The magnitude of the economic proposals that President Joe Biden may pass through Congress this year is drawing legitimate comparisons to Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal and Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society.

Tease photo

Children's healthiest meals of the day come from school cafeterias

School food is often given a bad rap, but a new study found it can be the healthiest meal children eat in a day.

Ludacris Foundation helps rising golf stars tee up

The future of golf got its chance to tee off Saturday morning.

Tease photo

Biden mourns slain Capitol Police officer: He 'was a hero'

President Joe Biden paid a personal tribute to fallen Capitol Police Officer William "Billy" Evans during a service at the US Capitol on Tuesday in which he praised the officer for his service and offered words of comfort to his family.

Body cam records attorney explaining how he crashed D.A.'s vehicle

A Bossier City attorney’s personal insurance company has paid the cash value of a taxpayer-owned vehicle he totaled after crashing it into a bayou last year.

Humane Society offering free pet food giveaways in April

April showers bring additional free pet food giveaways from Blue Ridge Humane Society. Blue Ridge Humane Community Outreach staff will host two giveaways this month as well as provide pet food and support for the Interfaith Assistance Ministry’s Drive-Thru Tuesdays on the fourth Tuesday of the month. The first pet food giveaway will take place on Monday, April 12, 3pm-5:30pm at the BRHS Adoption Center located at 88 Centipede Lane in Hendersonville.

Tease photo

Two suspects arrested in the disappearance of Kristin Smart, family and sources say

Two men were arrested Tuesday morning in connection with the disappearance of Kristin Smart, the California college student who vanished in 1996, a spokesman for the family and two law enforcement sources confirmed to CNN.

Tease photo

Biden and Obama to appear in TV special to promote Covid-19 vaccinations

President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama will appear in an hour-long NBC special on Sunday aimed at promoting Covid-19 vaccinations as they hope to convince hesitant Americans to get shots.

Kanye West asks for joint custody in divorce filing

Kanye West has responded to Kim Kardashian's divorce filing. In his own response filed on Friday and obtained by CNN, West has requested joint legal and physical custody of their four children.

Tease photo

The gleaming city that emerged from turmoil in the heart of Africa

Kigali's streets thrum with traffic, motorbikes darting around buses, its roadside markets a hive of activity. Standing on the roadside, it's much like any other major city in the heart of Africa. But this is a city that stands apart from other metropolises on the continent.

Tease photo

The world's most powerful passports for 2021

The gap in travel freedom is its biggest in decades and disparities in vaccination access between countries could make the situation even worse, says a new report.

Tease photo

How to plan a safe trip to the swimming pool

Where is the fun in warm weather if you can't take a dip in a cold pool? And now that some people have received Covid-19 vaccines, has the risk of public swimming pools changed?

Tease photo

Facebook removes page for French town named Bitche

Sometimes, life can be a Bitche. The residents of a French town thought just that after social media giant Facebook removed Ville de Bitche's official page from its site last month.

The job of binge-watching true crime for a day is back -- and could earn you $2,400

Fans of true crime documentaries have another chance to binge-watch a full day of gory drama and earn cash while doing it.

Houston, We are Connected! Multi-Service Centers and Select Parks Now Offer FREE Wi-Fi Internet Connectivity

The City of Houston and Comcast are pleased to announce the completion of 14 Lift Zone Wi-Fi hotspots designed to help community members connect to the internet so they can fully participate in education opportunities and the digital economy.

Tease photo

Hugh Jackman celebrates 25th wedding anniversary with Deborra-Lee Furness

Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee Furness are celebrating 25 years of marriage.

Tease photo

'WTF With Marc Maron' awarded the Governors Award by The Podcast Academy

"WTF with Marc Maron" will receive the first-ever Governors Award at the inaugural Awards for Excellence in Audio (The Ambies) on May 16.

Tease photo

'Shameless' series finale after party hit a snag

No spoilers here, but people were sad about Sunday's "Shameless" series finale.

Tease photo

Grimes shows off the 'beautiful alien scars' she's had tattooed across her back

Canadian musician Grimes has unveiled the "beautiful alien scars" she's had tattooed across her entire back.

Tease photo

'MacGyver' fans campaign to save show

It looks like "MacGyver" will not be returning for a sixth season -- and some viewers are not happy about that.

Tease photo

Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song welcome their first child together

Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song have welcomed a new baby, a rep for Culkin confirmed to CNN.

'The Talk' returns with Sheryl Underwood remarks and an episode on race

"The Talk" returned Monday by jumping right into a conversation about race.

Tease photo

Britney Spears is 'flattered' people care so much

Britney Spears feels the love. The singer posted video Monday on her verified Instagram account she said was shot last year for the "Just a Touch of Rose" project.

Tease photo

The cast of 'ER' will reunite for special 'Stars In The House' episode

Yes, Dr. Doug Ross will be there. The cast of "ER" will reunite on "Stars In The House" for a special Earth Day episode for Waterkeeper Alliance, producers Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley have announced. Waterkeeper is the fastest growing global nonprofit focused solely on clean water.

Tease photo

Vaccine passport apps are about to be everywhere. It could get complicated

As the vaccine rollout continues to accelerate and the broader US economy prepares to reopen, talk of vaccine verification apps has heated up.

Tease photo

Apple will launch new products on April 20

Apple is set to host its first product launch of the year where an updated iPad Pro and AirPods are expected.

Tease photo

Grab is going public in $40 billion SPAC deal, the biggest on record

Southeast Asia's ride-hailing giant Grab is setting the stage for an eye-popping Wall Street debut.

Wife of injured police officer publicly thanks everyone for the ‘outpouring of love’

The wife of one of three officers shot on Monday publicly thanked everyone for their support as her husband recovers from the shooting.

Families hope recommendations will help lower suicide rates

A Michigan resident dies by suicide every six hours, according to a new report by the state health department. The report crafted by the Michigan Suicide Prevention Commission and makes recommendations on how to reduce the state's suicide rate.

'How do we put life back together after this?' Daunte Wright's family mourns a young man killed by police

Derek Chauvin's defense team highlighted George Floyd's arrest and drug use in May 2019 in court on Tuesday after the prosecution rested its case against the former Minneapolis Police officer.

Derek Chauvin's defense begins its case by highlighting George Floyd's prior arrest

Derek Chauvin's defense team highlighted George Floyd's arrest and drug use in May 2019 in court on Tuesday after the prosecution rested its case against the former Minneapolis Police officer.

Tease photo

Biden proposes meeting with Putin amid rising Ukraine tensions

President Joe Biden spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday and proposed a meeting in a third country in the coming months as tensions between Russia and Ukraine rise in eastern Europe.

Tease photo

Hyatt Lost Pines Announces April Lineup for Live Music Series

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines and Visit Bastrop announce the April lineup for the “Live at Lost Pines” music series.

Tease photo

300 movie screens to go dark in California after company shuts operations due to Covid-19 impact

A cinema chain said Monday that all its theaters will close permanently after a brutal year for business amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Tease photo

Teachers are choosing to quit rather than go back to school while pandemic lingers

Fifteen years ago, Annette Lang left a Wall Street career for a new start. She was finally ready to follow her passion -- teaching. It brought her back home to New Jersey, where she got a job as a fifth-grade teacher at South River Elementary School.

Former Nike marketing manager pleads guilty to embezzling nearly $1.5 million

Former Nike marketing manager pleaded guilty on Monday, to wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements on a loan application in an attempt to defraud his former employer, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug.

Tease photo

Practically everything is getting more expensive in America

Wall Street has been a bundle of nerves about potential spikes in inflation since Democrats passed $1.9 trillion in economic stimulus last month. And on Tuesday, some of the first signs of inflation came to pass.

Tease photo

Austin announces increase to US military presence in Germany

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Tuesday that the US military will increase its presence in Germany, recommitting the US to the NATO alliance in a reversal from the previous administration's plans to withdraw troops from the country.

Tease photo

CDC and FDA recommend US pause use of Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine over blood clot concerns

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Food and Drug Administration are recommending that the United States pause the use of Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine over six reported US cases of a "rare and severe" type of blood clot.

Prosecution expected to rest its case today in Derek Chauvin's trial

The prosecution is expected to rest its case against former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin on Tuesday and offer the defense its turn to call witnesses.

Nikki Haley just *totally* flip-flopped on Donald Trump's 2024 candidacy

Nikki Haley sent a clear message to Donald Trump on Monday: If you run for president, I'm out.

Monday, April 12

Tease photo

Blinken names chief diversity officer to lead change on a 'problem as old as the department itself'

Secretary of State Antony Blinken named retired ambassador Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley as the department's first chief diversity and inclusion officer Monday, a step that current and former diplomats said reflects Blinken's seriousness about improving diversity at America's oldest Cabinet agency.

Tease photo

Nike wants to resell your (lightly) worn shoes in some stores

Nike is now reselling returned sneakers at a discount in select stores in an effort to reduce waste.

Tease photo

Tidal Reality Services To Offer Summer Internship To Students From Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern University

Tidal Realty Services would like to invite college students who are currently attending Prairie View University or Texas Southern to participate in our summer internship.

Tease photo

Error by prosecutors prompts judge to dismiss charge against funeral director in alleged illegal cemetery

An error by Prichard prosecutors has prompted a judge to dismiss criminal charges against an Eight Mile man accused of operating a funeral home without a license.

Tease photo

Harry pays tribute to 'cheeky' grandpa Prince Philip as he arrives in UK for funeral

Britain's Prince Harry has paid tribute to his grandfather Prince Philip, describing him as "a man of service, honour and great humour," after flying back to the United Kingdom ahead of the funeral on Saturday.

Tease photo

How to make your gym workout less risky during the pandemic

Now that more people are getting vaccinated against coronavirus, is this the moment to trade your neighborhood cycle for a motivating spin class at the gym?

Tease photo

Bitcoin is back above $60,000 as Coinbase gets ready for public debut

The bitcoin bull market rages on: The price of one bitcoin is back above $60,000, and not far from its all-time high, as investors gear up for this week's eagerly awaited direct listing of cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase Global.

Tease photo

Bad Bunny announces 2022 tour

It's happening! Bad Bunny has announced he's heading out on a North American tour, calling it El Último Tour del Mundo 2022.

Tease photo

Michigan's Covid-19 crisis could be a sign of what's to come for the US, expert says

As the US races to vaccinate more Americans, Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations are rising, predominantly among younger people who haven't yet gotten a shot.

Tease photo

China hits Alibaba with record $2.8 billion fine for behaving like a monopoly

China has ordered Alibaba to pay a record fine of 18.2 billion yuan ($2.8 billion) after antitrust regulators concluded that the online shopping giant had been behaving like a monopoly.

Thousands turned away at SF vaccine clinic due to overwhelming demand

There was a big demand for vaccine all across the Bay Area Saturday.

Tease photo

Ways to support humanitarian aid at the US-Mexico border

More than 2 million migrants are expected to make it to the US-Mexico border by September, according to internal government estimates reviewed by CNN.

Houston Health Department offering 7,900 COVID-19 vaccination appointment slots for week of April 12

The Houston Health Department is offering approximately 7,900 COVID-19 vaccination appointment slots for the week of April 12, 2021.

Tease photo

Biden to name Chris Inglis as new national cyber director

President Joe Biden is expected on Monday to name Chris Inglis to the new position of national cyber director, an official familiar with the matter confirmed to CNN.

Tease photo

Yes, the IRS can tax bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. What you need to know

Even though you can buy things with bitcoin, it's not the same as cash. At least not in the eyes of the IRS.Even though you can buy things with bitcoin, it's not the same as cash. At least not in the eyes of the IRS.

Tease photo

Biden to name Trump policy critics to lead two key immigration agencies

President Joe Biden plans to nominate Tucson, Arizona, police chief Chris Magnus to serve as commissioner of US Customs and Border Protection and Ur Jaddou to serve as director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, according to four sources familiar with the selections.

100 days later, Brexit isn't working and business wants it fixed

When British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his Brexit trade deal on December 24, he said it would enable UK companies "to do even more business" with the European Union.

Tease photo

A shooter is on the run in Paris after killing one and injuring another outside a hospital

One person was killed and another injured after a shooting in front of a private hospital in Paris on Monday, a police source told CNN.

Tease photo

Luke Bryan to miss first 'American Idol' live show due to Covid diagnosis

"American Idol" judge Luke Bryan is sitting out the first live show after testing positive for Covid-19, the singer announced on Monday.

Tease photo

Rural education model being reshaped

Texas A&M University’s Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, ALEC, is working with rural schools to make sure the future offers as many opportunities as possible for Texas youth.

Tease photo

ABC7/WABC-TV New York Plans to 'Set the Record Straight' in an Upcoming Streaming Premiere of Its Jam Master Jay Documentary This Friday, April 16

‘Set the Record Straight: The Jam Master Jay Case’ Features Original Music From Oscar®-Nominated Composer Charles Mack, and Interviews With Music Industry Figures Including Former Def Jam Recordings

ABC 7/WABC-TV New York, an ABC Owned Television Station, shares with viewers never-before-seen footage with new and exclusive details surrounding the death of hip-hop legend and member of Run-DMC, Jason “Jam Master Jay’ Mizell, in an exclusive stream-only premiere of “Set the Record Straight: The Jam Master Jay Case,” Friday, April 16, with a Hulu premiere on April 20.

Tease photo

France to ban domestic flights where trains are available, in move to cut emissions

France is set to ban short domestic flights in favor of train services, after lawmakers approved a plan that will see several air routes discontinued to reduce emissions.

DEEP identifies kayaker whose body was pulled from pond

Environmental officials identified a kayaker whose body was pulled from a pond in Middlebury over the weekend.

Tease photo

Brazil is building a new statue of Jesus -- and it's going to be bigger than Rio's

A huge statue of Jesus Christ is under construction in southern Brazil, and it will be even taller than its famous counterpart in Rio de Janeiro.

Tease photo

Biden administration stands down on policing commission, focuses on legislative route instead

The Biden administration is standing down on a campaign promise to create a White House-led commission and instead moving forward with its efforts toward passing police reform through legislative channels.

Tease photo

Minnesota National Guard deployed after protests over the death of man following a police shooting during a traffic stop

Hundreds of people protested Sunday night after a Black man in Minnesota was shot by a police officer and died following a traffic stop.

Tease photo

Cardiologist says George Floyd's death was absolutely preventable in Derek Chauvin's trial

An expert cardiologist testified Monday that George Floyd died from cardiopulmonary arrest caused by low oxygen levels brought on by prone restraint and positional asphyxia -- making him the fifth doctor to say as much in Derek Chauvin's trial.

Tease photo

Nick Cannon expecting twin boys with Abby De La Rosa

Actor and TV presenter Nick Cannon is preparing to welcome his second set of twins into the world.

Tease photo

Will Smith and Antoine Fuqua pull 'Emancipation' production from Georgia

Georgia has lost a major production because of its newly restrictive voting legislation.

Tease photo

Prosecution nears end of its case as Derek Chauvin trial enters third week of testimony

An expert cardiologist testified Monday that George Floyd died from cardiopulmonary arrest caused by low oxygen levels brought on by prone restraint and positional asphyxia -- making him the fifth doctor to say as much in Derek Chauvin's trial.

Saturday, April 10

Tease photo

Rockets Face Warriors After Tough Loss Against The Clippers

The Rockets will have no time to regroup as they head up the coast from Los Angeles to San Francisco on Saturday to take on the Golden State Warriors who are also coming off of a tough loss to the Washington Wizards on Friday night.

Tease photo

Cold Bats Leads To Another Astros Loss

What started out as a great homestand seemed to turn quickly on the Houston Astros. After opening up the three-game series against the Oakland A’s with a 6-2 victory in game one, the big bats for Houston suddenly went cold. Oakland’s 7-3 gives them their third win of the season and evens the series against Houston at one a piece after taking back-to-back games in Minute Maid Park.

Friday, April 9

Tease photo

The Open House: With Realtor Falyn Davis

How To Win As A Buyer In A Sellers’ Market

Welcome back to The Open House. Today’s topic is ‘How to win as a buyer in a sellers market’.

Tease photo

New Community Initiative

“Changing 1 Life At A Time” Inner City Communities -VS- First Responders

I would like to invite you to join my new initiative “Changing 1 Life at a Time.”

Tease photo

DMX, rapper and actor, dies at 50

DMX, a rapper known as much for his troubles as his music, has died, his family announced in a statement. He was 50.

Tease photo

Community mourns beloved doctor, family and worker who officials say were killed by former NFL player

A shocked South Carolina community was grieving and looking for answers Thursday after officials said a beloved doctor and four other people were shot and killed by a man who had gone from a local high school on to college and the NFL.

Tease photo

Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip, longtime consort to Queen Elizabeth II, dies

The most famous family on earth is mourning the loss of its patriarch.

Tease photo

Ending the COVID-19 Pandemic

Improving Vaccine Confidence In Communities of Color

Black and Brown Americans have been dis- proportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, experiencing a significant share of the devastating health and economic impact of the virus. In response to the pandemic, biopharmaceutical researchers have developed multiple vaccines that are now authorized for use. While vaccines are critical to saving lives and getting the country back to normal, many individuals have questions about getting vaccinated. Black and Brown Americans in particular have important questions and seek to understand how the vaccines were developed and ensuring their safety. Please join us for an event led by leaders in the Black business community, biopharmaceutical researchers, and health professionals as they explore:

Tease photo

Rasheedah Carr Named Vice President Of Engineering For Comcast Houston

Comcast this week announced that Rasheedah Carr has been appointed Vice President of Engineering for the company’s Houston Region. In this role, Carr will be responsible for providing leadership to the market implementing Engineering initiatives that deliver superior network reliability and fast paced growth production.

Tease photo

Corporate America, Politics and You

The Black Votes Matter project in the State of Georgia has demonstrated once again the connection between politics and the dollar. This project has approached corporate America in the person of Coca Cola, Delta, Home Depot, UPS and others, demanding that they take a position against the voter suppression laws enacted by the Georgia legislature.

Tease photo

Tiger Woods’ SUV Crash Caused By Speed and Inability To Make Curve

As he approached a curve in the road, Tiger Woods of the crash were speed and Woods’ Tiger Woods apparently meant to inability to negotiate a curve. hit the brakes but instead slammed Woods was driving a Genesis

Tease photo

Has America Come Any Closer to King's Dream?

Last weekend marked the 53d anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's assassination. Over half a century. Has America come any closer to his dream?

Tease photo

New Chief of Houston Police Department: Troy Finner

When outgoing police chief Art Acevedo announced his exit to run the Miami Police Department, Mayor Sylvester Turner knew he wanted his replacement to be someone who was fully capable to step into the role day one. The city needed someone who would be intentional about reducing crime. He could not have a found a more qualified officer to do that other than Troy R. Finner. After Houston City Council unanimously voted in favor Finner as chief, the official swearing-in could take place.

Tease photo

Astros Welcomed Home By Sell-Out Crowd In Victory Over The Oakland A’s

“It was great seeing all the orange jersey’s out there,” Manager Dusty Baker said about the crowd. “It made a big difference, and I could see the positive energy it had on our team.”

Thursday, April 8

Tease photo

READY TO LOVE: Fall In Love With Just Gritz

Ready to Love season 4 returned to Houston for round 2 with a couple of familiar Houston faces. Host Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles returned for the 4th year as host but not with a “couple” of surprises. His wife Jacquline Miles joined him for the premier and Twitter went wild, hoping that she will stay on to give a woman’s perspective.

Tease photo

George Floyd Died Of Low Level Of Oxygen As Derek Chauvin Pinned Him To Street, Doctors Says

A renowned pulmonary critical care doctor testified Thursday morning that George Floyd died from a “low level of oxygen” as former police officer Derek Chauvin pinned him to the street and restricted his ability to breathe.

Several people injured in shooting in Bryan, Texas, police say

Police responded Thursday to the scene of a shooting at an industrial park in Bryan, Texas, where they found "several victims," according to Lt. Jason James of the Bryan Police Department.

Tease photo

Welcome Home: Astros Set To Play First Game In Front Of Fans At Minute Maid Park Since 2019.

As Houston prepares for its home opener against the Oakland A’s, they will be greeted by some familiar faces as fans are allowed back into Major League stadiums this season. Minute Maid Park will allow 50 percent capacity to be met in the month of April and will reevaluate more options before the next month begins.

Tease photo

What schools can do with their Covid stimulus money

An unprecedented amount of money is flowing to K-12 schools from the federal government and districts are planning to spend it on summer schools, tutoring programs and, in some places, teacher bonuses.

Tease photo

Washington governor signs bill restoring voting rights after prison release

Democratic Washington Gov. Jay Inslee signed a bill Wednesday that will automatically restore the voting rights of people convicted of a felony once they are released from prison, even if they are still under community supervision.

Tease photo

Kentucky Gov. Beshear signs into law bipartisan elections bill expanding voting access

Kentucky Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear signed a bipartisan-supported bill into law on Wednesday that expanded voting access by codifying election recount procedures, online absentee ballot portals and early voting procedures -- an exception to the GOP efforts nationwide to overhaul state election rules in the wake of the 2020 election.

Tease photo

Biden to take first limited steps on gun control, including on 'ghost guns' and pistol braces

President Joe Biden will take his first, limited actions on gun control Thursday, directing his administration to tighten restrictions on so-called ghost guns and pistol stabilizing braces that allow the weapons to be used more accurately, according to a senior administration official.

Wednesday, April 7

Tease photo

Rockets Break Five-Game Losing Streak As Wall Returns To The Lineup

“Tonight, was a pretty complete game on both ends of the floor,” said Silas when asked about his team not collapsing in the fourth quarter like they have in the past. “It wasn’t just the execution on the offensive end. It was also the execution on the defensive end as well.”

Tease photo

Mavericks Luka Doncic Causes Mismatch Issues For Rockets

The Houston Rockets will be back in action on Wednesday night against one of their in-state rivals, Dallas Mavericks. After a tough 133-130 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Monday, the Rockets must prepare to take on another team that has been catching as of late. Dallas is coming into the Toyota Center with a five-game winning streak including a 111-103 win over the Utah Jazz who holds the best record in the NBA.

Comcast RISE to Award $1 Million in Grants to BIPOC-Owned, Small Businesses in Houston

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Comcast executives, and several community leaders gathered at City Hall last month to announce a new phase of the Comcast RISE program launching in Houston – the Comcast RISE Investment Fund. The Comcast RISE Investment Fund, will award $5 million dollars of grants to hundreds of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-owned, small businesses in five cities nationwide, including $1 million in Houston.

Tease photo

Tishaura Jones defeats Cara Spencer in St. Louis mayoral race

Treasurer Tishaura Jones defeated Ward 20 Alderwoman Cara Spencer in the St. Louis Mayoral election Tuesday night, becoming the first Black female mayor in the city's history

Tease photo

'Neighbours' actors allege racism and homophobia on set of beloved Australian soap

Australia's longest-running soap, "Neighbours," is embroiled in a racism scandal after an Aboriginal actress said she was abused by cast and crew members, heard the N-word multiple times and confronted an actor over a "monkey" epithet while working on the show.

Tease photo

Some Covid-19 long haulers say vaccines may be relieving their symptoms. Researchers are looking into it

Jessamyn Smyth hopes that two shots in the arm may be what finally delivers her from a year in which the lasting effects of Covid-19 wreaked chaos in her life.

Tease photo

Illinois bar opening event linked to 46 Covid-19 cases, a school closure and hospitalization, CDC report says

A rural Illinois bar opening event in February was linked to a Covid-19 outbreak of at least 46 cases, a school closure and the hospitalization of a long-term care facility resident, according to a United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report.

Tease photo

How to talk about alcohol and drugs with kids of all ages

As informal as today's parents are compared with previous generations, there remains a handful of uncomfortable subjects. Alcohol and drug use is one of them.

Tease photo

Youth sports and other extracurriculars are spreading Covid-19, health officials say

The practice of finding new uses for old medications -- called repurposing or repositioning drugs -- is not new.

Tease photo

California says it will fully reopen in June, citing falling Covid-19 case rates

California, the first state to implement a lockdown for the coronavirus pandemic, plans to fully reopen activities and businesses beginning June 15, state officials said Tuesday.

Tease photo

Why young people are not safe from Covid-19 — Dr. Wen explains

There has been a worrisome trend emerging in recent weeks: Cases among younger people are rising. In Michigan, hospitalizations among people in their 30s have climbed by over 600%, and those in their 40s by 800%. Average daily cases for children have also risen by over 200%. In Massachusetts, the largest increase in Covid-19 infections has been in children and teens.

Students set to launch bike rental program aided by donation

St. Ambrose University students in Davenport are in the process of launching a bike rental program on campus, thanks to a donation from the Hilltop Campus Village and Scott County Sheriff's Department.

Tease photo

Angelo Gabriel, 16, becomes youngest goalscorer in Copa Libertadores history

Santos forward Angelo Gabriel became the youngest goalscorer in Copa Libertadores history on Tuesday as he scored his side's final goal in a 3-1 victory against San Lorenzo.

Tease photo

When can we go on a cruise again?

It's been a year since the cruise industry was in the eye of the Covid storm as leisure ships proved themselves ideal places for the disease to spread.

Tease photo

Nikki Glaser learns to love herself

In the new FX/ Hulu documentary, "Hysterical," viewers are treated to the backstories of the female comics who star in it, childhood scars and all.

Tease photo

Paul Ritter, 'Friday Night Dinner' actor, dead at 54

British actor Paul Ritter, a versatile actor known for lighting up the screen and the stage, died Monday. He was 54. According to his agent, Jonty Brook, Ritter died after battling a brain tumor.

'Hemingway' tackles the writer in a documentary as big as his tumultuous life

The long history of Ken Burns documentaries ranges from places to people to entire wars. His latest collaboration with Lynn Novick, "Hemingway," falls in that middle category, portraying Ernest Hemingway's war-spanning, tumultuous life over six hours, which might not qualify as Hemingway-esque brevity, but proves fascinating nevertheless.

Tease photo

Bollywood star hospitalized with Covid-19 as pandemic sweeps through industry

Indian actor Akshay Kumar has become the latest top Bollywood star to test positive for Covid-19, as India's second wave of coronavirus infections tears through its film industry.

Tease photo

Sheryl Underwood addresses Sharon Osbourne leaving 'The Talk'

Sheryl Underwood is sharing her thoughts about co-host Sharon Osbourne leaving "The Talk" after their fiery debate.

Tease photo

White House defends hiking taxes on corporations to pay for infrastructure

Faced with major blowback over its $2 trillion infrastructure proposal, the Biden administration is rolling out a campaign to justify why it needs to hike corporate taxes to fund the massive plan.

Tease photo

Trump endorses Republican ally Mo Brooks for Alabama Senate

Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday endorsed Rep. Mo Brooks' campaign for US Senate in Alabama, supporting the controversial GOP congressman who stood by him during two impeachments and led the House effort to object to the 2020 election results.

Tease photo

The YMCA Children’s Academy at Avenue Welcomes Families To New State-of-The-Art Facility in Near Northside

The YMCA of Greater Houston in partnership with Avenue, has announced the opening of the YMCA Children’s Academy at Avenue, a new early childhood education facility at Avenue Center in the Near Northside. This site will assist in creating equity and access to key education programs and address the shortage of early childhood education capacity in this community.

Tease photo

Justices Erin Nowell, Amanda Reichek, Launch 2022 Campaigns for Texas Supreme Court

Justice Erin Nowell and Justice Amanda Reichek, both of whom sit on the 5th District Court of Appeals based in Dallas, today announce plans to campaign for the Texas Supreme Court during the 2022 cycle. Justice Nowell will seek Place 3, Justice Reichek Place 5. The two Democrats were elected to the 5th District Court of Appeals in 2018 as voters demanded new perspectives and greater diversity on intermediate courts throughout the state that had been dominated by one party for decades.

Tuesday, April 6

Tease photo

“California Dreaming” Astros complete West Coast road trip with 5-1 record.

It must be something about the weather out in California that the Houston Astros enjoy. They have hit a stride early to begin the 2021 Major League Baseball season by going 5-1 on their opening six game road trip against the Oakland A’s and Los Angeles Angels.

Tease photo

Stop "Othering"

I wondered how long expressions of empathy would continue to be front and center in the minds of Americans following the hate-fueled multiple murders of Asian women in and near Atlanta, Georgia.

Congressman Al Green Hosts #StopAsianHate Press Conference in Houston’s Chinatown

On Friday, April 2, 2021, Congressman Al Green hosted a press conference in Houston’s Chinatown with local and state elected officials as well as community leaders to condemn anti-Asian violence and discrimination. Congressman Green traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday, March 28, 2021, with fellow CAPAC members to visit the sites of the March 16 shootings and to meet with two of the victims’ families. He has also spoken out against the recent physical attack on a 65-year-old Asian woman in Manhattan.

Tease photo

The Houston Texans Surprise Three Local Nonprofits with $10,000 Grants to Help Close the Digital Divide

Earlier today the Houston Texans awarded $10,000 grants to the Chinese Community Center, Urban Enrichment Institute and The Pangea Network through the United Way of Greater Houston to help close the digital divide across the Houston community. The “digital divide” is defined as the gulf between those who have ready access to computers and the internet, and those who do not. These grants will assist with providing access to the technology needed to help close this gap and is part of the National Football League’s efforts to close the digital divide in communities across the country.

$4.5M Gift Supports Student, Faculty Success and New Lecture Series on Equity and Social Justice

Transformative Gift Initiates First Matching Gift by ‘$100 Million Challenge’ for Total Impact of at Least $6.5M

The University of Houston has received a $4.5 million gift from the Thomas Michael Panos Family Estate to establish an endowed chair in the Cullen College of Engineering; a scholarship endowment available to students throughout the University; and an endowed lecture series focused on equity and social justice, which will reside in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. An additional $2 million has been matched by the University’s new “$100 Million Challenge” Aspire Fund. This is the first matched gift since the fund was established, making the total impact of the Panos Family Estate gift at least $6.5 million.

Tease photo

NAACP Condemns UT Fight Song "Eyes of Texas"

The Houston NAACP is out front on major matters facing the African American community and the community at large!

Harris County teen writers, artists earn 80 National Scholastic Art & Writing Medals, Scholarships

The creative works of 70 teen writers and artists from 13 Harris County school districts and 10 private schools were recognized this month during the 98th annual National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards 2021, judged in New York City. Seventy-five national medals and five scholarships were awarded to the area youth who earned regional Gold Key Awards earlier this year during a competition sponsored by Harris County Department of Education.

Tease photo

Governor Abbott Provides Update On Operation Lone Star In Weslaco

Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference in Weslaco where he provided an update on Texas’ response to the humanitarian crisis at the southern border through Operation Lone Star. Prior to the press conference, the Governor received a briefing from the Texas Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement on the ongoing crisis at the border.

Tease photo

Texas A&M AgriLife expert shares advice to safely eliminate pests, protect your family

Now that spring weather finally arrived across the state, many Texans are preparing for spring cleaning.

Governor Abbott Appoints McAdams To Public Utility Commission Of Texas

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Will McAdams to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) for a term set to expire September 1, 2025. PUC regulates the state's electric, telecommunication, and water and sewer utilities, implements respective legislation, and offers customer assistance in resolving consumer complaints.

Construction Complete on the Greens Bayou Glen Forest and Kuykendahl Stormwater Detention Basins

The Harris County Flood Control District has completed construction of the Glen Forest and Kuykendahl Stormwater Detention Basins, located in Greens Bayou. The two stormwater detention basins were funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through the Hurricane Ike Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Flood Control District matched the $39.2 million award, bringing the total cost of construction to $63.7 million.

Building A Life Together

Life Priorities for Newlyweds

For future brides and grooms and recent newlyweds, combining assets under one roof takes more than a moving van and space for all their belongings. Every couple planning to build a life together should take prudent actions to protect their future.

MOVE Texas on the Passage of Voter Suppressing SB 7

Today, after Senate Bill 7 passed the Texas Senate, MOVE Texas released a statement rebuking the bill and the legislators complicit in shepherding in restrictive, discriminatory anti-voter legislation that will disproportionately harm Black and brown voters, disabled, elderly and low-income voters.

Tease photo

Black Owned Hair Care Line, My Curl Products, Is Changing The Natural Hair Game During The Pandemic By Offering At Home Solutions To Help People Around The World Maintain Their Hair With Virtual One-O

My Curl Products is a black-owned hair care line that's making life easier for women and men to care for their curls during the pandemic. By offering premium salon-grade products and access to professional hairstylists to answer your specific questions, their team ensures that you get the support you need to maintain and style your hair successfully.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis: “We must create an equity framework for relief from the economic impacts of the pandemic”

Following the passage of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, which includes more than $900 million in direct aid to Harris County, Precinct One Commissioner Rodney Ellis is advocating for an equity framework to ensure that these funds effectively address the needs of Harris County residents most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tease photo

Families are 'self-separating' in Mexico after being expelled from the US, Border Patrol says

Migrant families are "self-separating" in Mexico, sending children alone to cross into the United States after first having been expelled, the US Border Patrol's chief patrol agent of the Rio Grande Valley sector told CNN.

Tease photo

US Air Force test to launch ultra-fast hypersonic missile fails

The US Air Force's new hypersonic missile program suffered a blow Monday after it failed to launch from a B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft flying from Edwards Air Force Base in California.

Tease photo

Florida Democratic congressman Alcee Hastings dies at 84

Democratic Rep. Alcee Hastings, a civil rights activist and the longest-serving member of Florida's congressional delegation, has died, his chief of staff Lale M. Morrison told CNN on Tuesday. He was 84.

Tease photo

Woman billed $90 for a short Uber ride

A short ride caused a long list of unexplained charges for a disabled Omaha woman that depends on Uber for trips to the doctor and pharmacy.

Biden set to announce he's moving deadline for all US adults to be eligible for Covid vaccine to April 19

President Joe Biden plans to announce Tuesday that he is moving up his deadline for states to make all American adults eligible for a coronavirus vaccine by almost two weeks.

Man hit by own car during attempted robbery at gas station

A robbery victim was hit by his own car in Hazelwood Monday evening.

Dangerous Covid-19 Variant Has Spread to All 50 US States

The highly contagious Covid-19 variant first identified in the UK has now been reported in every state in the US, and experts are concerned spreading variants could send cases surging.

Tease photo

Police say they're responding to a shooting in Frederick, Maryland

Police in Maryland are "on scene responding to an active shooter" in the city of Frederick on Tuesday morning, according to a tweet from city police.

Tease photo

McConnell warns businesses of 'serious consequences' after many condemn Georgia's restrictive voting law

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell warned big businesses they would face "serious consequences" after accusing them of employing "economic blackmail" in attempts to influence voting laws as the backlash over Georgia's elections law that imposes voting restrictions intensifies.

Black women delivered for Biden. Now it's time for Congress to deliver on a $15 minimum wage

"Thank Black women" has become a familiar refrain from Democratic lawmakers, who are eager to pay lip service to their fiercest, most reliable voting bloc. Black women helped deliver the presidency and the Senate to the Democrats, who ran on the promise of a $15 an hour minimum wage, among other things. Now they must do what they can to deliver on that promise.

Tease photo

'Drunk History: Black Stories' will give you something to toast

Comedy Central's popular "Drunk History" series is getting a spinoff, but be sure to watch it responsibly.

Monday, April 5

Rebuilding Together and The Home Depot Foundation Supporting Historic Winter Storms Relief Efforts in Houston

Local Support Focuses on Homes with Broken Pipes and No Water

The damage caused by the Texas winter storms left numerous homeowners with damaged pipes and no running water weeks after the historic cold weather. The Home Depot Foundation and Rebuilding Together are once again joining forces to help struggling Houstonians get their pipes fixed and water back on so residents can recover from the devastating damage caused by the extreme cold weather.

Tease photo

Neighbor's racist rant against Chinese family caught on camera

A San Jose couple is trying to raise awareness after a hate incident occurred right on their front porch.

Tease photo

Virginia becomes the first state in the South to ban gay and trans panic as a defense

Approving a bill introduced by its only transgender lawmaker, Virginia became the first state in the South to ban "gay and trans panic" as a defense for murder or manslaughter.

Tease photo

Illinois bar opening event linked to 46 Covid-19 cases, a school closure and hospitalization, CDC report says

A rural Illinois bar opening event in February was linked to a Covid-19 outbreak of at least 46 cases, a school closure and the hospitalization of a long-term care facility resident, according to a United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report.

Trump shouldn't get credit for the economic rebound. Neither should Biden

Presidents typically get too much credit -- or blame -- for the US economy's current performance, while the unseen drivers of the economic cycle get way too little.

Tease photo

Ghost Bike memorial honors 5 who died

A memorial has been installed, remembering the five cyclists killed just outside the Las Vegas Valley in December.

Tease photo

The foods you should eat to jump-start your morning, and 2 recipes to try out

Successfully tackling your morning to-do list could start with the first thing you put in your mouth.

Tease photo

Yellen calls for global minimum corporate tax rate in first major address as Treasury secretary

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called for a global minimum corporate tax rate on Monday, a pitch that comes as the Biden administration begins to sell its roughly $2 trillion infrastructure and jobs proposal that would raise US corporate taxes to fund the massive plan.

Tease photo

Army sends additional criminal investigators to Fort Sill following sexual assault allegation

Additional Army criminal investigators have been sent to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in the wake of a soldier's allegation about sexual assault that may have involved multiple Army personnel in more than one incident, several Army officials told CNN.

Tease photo

Tesla's stock rises on record Model 3 and Model Y deliveries

No Model S or Model X cars on the Tesla assembly line is apparently no problem for investors.

Man gets probation for illegal relationship with teen

A Rexburg man will spend time on probation after an illegal sexual relationship with a teenager.

Tease photo

Lonzo Ball Has Career Night From Three-Point Range To Defeat The Rockets

The shorthanded New Orleans Pelicans used a very efficient game from Lonzo Ball to defeat the Houston Rockets 122-115 on Sunday at the Toyota Center in Houston. Ball, who had been out of the lineup since mid-March with a hip flexor strain, scored 27 points and had nine assists while hitting a career-high eight shots from three-point range.

Sunday, April 4

Tease photo

Astros Bats Make A Huge Impact In Four-Game Sweep Over The A’s

Houston (4-0) used a strong combination of hitting and pitching to take all four games from the defending A.L. West Champions Oakland A’s (0-4) including an impressive 9-2 win on Sunday. The Astros scored a combined 35 runs on the A’s averaging 8.75 runs per game which was almost as many as Oakland had for the entire series (9). They became the fourth team in Major League history to score eight or more runs in their first four games.

Saturday, April 3

Tease photo

The Astros Didn’t Forget

Houston (2-0) scored nine runs on Friday night to defeat Oakland (0-2) by a score of 9-5. The Astros are now 5-1 in their last six games against the A’s dating back to last year’s postseason and have a total of 50 runs scored against them.

Friday, April 2

Tease photo

Garcia Hamilton & Associates Gives Houston Area Families A $250.00 H-E-B Gift Cards

120 Gift Cards Provided To Community and Baptist Ministers

On Tuesday, March 30, 2021, Gil- bert Garcia of Garcia Hamilton and Associates along with H-E-B provided 120 underserved families with a $250 H-E-B gift card to assist them during these challenging times from the pandemic to the recent winter storm.

Tease photo

Fully vaccinated people can travel at low risk to themselves, new CDC guidance says

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday released a highly anticipated update to travel guidance for people who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, eliminating some testing and quarantine recommendations.

Tease photo

Top homicide detective says Derek Chauvin violated policy by kneeling on George Floyd

The Minneapolis Police Department's top homicide detective testified at the murder trial of the former officer who knelt on George Floyd's neck last May that "if your knee is on someone's neck -- that could kill them."

Tease photo

Seven detention officers fired, one resigns, after an in-custody death in a Texas jail

Seven detention officers in Texas have been fired, and an eighth has resigned, following the death in custody of Marvin David Scott III, a news release from the Collin County Sheriff's Office said Thursday.

Doctor: Arkansas anti-LGBTQ law is completely unethical

As physicians, my colleagues and I have the honor and privilege to help people through some of the most difficult times of their lives. Along with this privilege come some challenging situations. Once at three in the morning, I was paged to see a patient going through alcohol withdrawal. The moment I walked into his room, he grabbed my pager from my scrubs and threw it against the wall. He screamed homophobic slurs in my face. I was tired. My shoulders tightened with anxiety, and I steeled myself against memories of middle school bullies summoned by this patient's screaming.

Tease photo

Get fully vaccinated before resuming normal activities, health experts plead with Americans

With fears growing the US may be facing a fourth surge of Covid-19 cases, health experts are pleading with Americans to keep taking precautions until they are fully vaccinated.

Tiananmen Square watch withdrawn from controversial sale by auction house

An English luxury auction house has withdrawn a commemorative watch given to a Chinese soldier following the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre after its vendor received threats on social media.

Tease photo

White House tells Democratic investigators it no longer has Trump White House Capitol attack documents

The White House says it no longer has custody of the documents House Democratic investigators sought to shed light on the inner workings of then President Donald Trump's top aides in the lead up to, and on the day of, the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, according to a letter obtained by CNN.

Tease photo

Hunter Biden details his struggle with addiction -- and his dad's love -- in new memoir

In a new memoir, Hunter Biden reveals his staggering slide into crack addiction and how he was buoyed by his father, President Joe Biden. "Beautiful Things" details the younger Biden's lifelong struggles with drugs and alcohol; his first drink was aged 8, downing a glass of champagne at a family event.

Tease photo

The Open House: With Realtor Falyn Davis

Welcome to The Open House, Houston Style Magazine’s new real estate column. My name is Falyn Davis and I am a Texas Realtor located in Houston.

Tease photo

Here’s What’s In Biden’s Infrastructure Proposal

Now that his massive coronavirus relief package is law, President Joe Biden is laying out his next big proposal: A roughly $2 trillion plan for improving the nation›s infrastructure and shifting to greener energy over the next 8 years.

The Whispers Of Women’s History Month

As we close out Women’s History Month, I take a moment to re- flect not only on all the history that is being made this year alone but also the last 10 years. While I am still in semi-quarantine, I have been binge-watching shows that I absolutely love like The Walking Dead and there is an episode where Eugene (Google him) decides he is going to help fight for the first time and he makes a statement that is quite familiar with many shows like this, he says “ This is what they are going to write about.” That made me think of what I like to call Whisperers of Women’s History.

Tease photo

Store Cashier Who Suspected George Floyd Of Using Fake $20 Bill Says He Feels Guilty

An employee at the Minneapolis corner store who suspected George Floyd gave him a counterfeit $20 bill last May testified in court Wednesday that he felt guilty knowing that their interaction led to Floyd’s death under former police officer Derek Chauvin’s knee.

Tease photo

The New Jim Crow

In Georgia, Donald Trump's big lie that the election was stolen has now been turned into bad law -- an election law designed to make it harder for minorities and the young to vote. This is, as President Joe Biden stated, the new Jim Crow a blatant attempt by Republicans to suppress votes so they can hold onto power.

Tease photo

Some Habits Are Worth Keeping

For the ninth consecutive time, the Astros won their opener which ties the longest streak in the modern era joining the St. Louis Browns, Cincinnati Reds, Seattle Mariners and New York Mets who have all done it since the 1900’s. Houston (1-0) defeated the reigning American League West Champions Oakland A’s (0-1) 8-1. It was the second year in a row that the Astros put eight runs on the board to start the season.

Tease photo

Don’t Suffer Alone: STOP Domestic Violence

This time last year domestic violence was on the rise in Houston. Increasing by almost 10%, victims were now trapped in an enclosed space 24/7 with their abuser. No help from family and friends was available as all were practicing being socially distance while quarantining. Although staying at home to stay safe was enacted to keep everyone was safe from catching the coronavirus, it gave abusers the opportunity to take total control over their defenseless victim(s). Through various community partnerships with the city of Houston, a message was sent out to let survivors know that they don’t have to suffer in silence.

Thursday, April 1

Mellow Mushroom Announces Open Patio Season

Mellow Mushroom announces new spring menu.

EXPERIENCE THE GREAT OUTDOORS AT CANYON MADNESS RANCH IN NEW MEXICO

Experience Canyon Madness Ranch, a truly luxurious outdoor playground that is spectacularly beautiful and tranquil.

Tease photo

GM Increasing Ad Spend in Black-Owned Media by 400%

Automaker cancels meeting with group of seven publishers. Will now hold a series of small meetings with more media executives “ASAP”

Facing charges of “systemic racism,” General Motors Wednesday evening announced a 400% increase in ad spending in Black-owned media by 2023.

Tease photo

New stimulus Obamacare subsidies start April 1

Extra premium subsidies approved as part of the recent stimulus bill will be available on the federal Affordable Care Act exchange starting on Thursday.

Tease photo

Taxpayers who already filed returns will automatically get stimulus break on unemployment benefits, IRS says

Americans who lost their jobs last year and have already filed their tax returns will have one less headache to deal with.

Tease photo

Biden administration asks for more time to decide whether to turn Trump's taxes over to the House

Lawyers for the Department of Justice have asked a judge for additional time to decide whether to turn former President Donald Trump's taxes over to the House Ways and Means Committee.

Tease photo

Biden officials urge states to 'buckle down' amid virus resurgence but avoid issuing federal guidance

Biden administration officials are increasingly urging governors and local officials to reinstate or avoid relaxing public health restrictions as coronavirus cases continue to rise and the US stares down the prospect of another surge.

Tease photo

Top US national security officials call counterparts as Russia and Ukraine tensions rise

Top US national security officials have spoken with their Ukrainian counterparts, and America's top general held a call Wednesday with his Russian opposite number amid concern over Russian military activity in Crimea and eastern Ukraine, including what the US deemed a violation of a ceasefire by Moscow that led to the deaths of four Ukrainian soldiers last week.

Tease photo

State Department orders non-emergency personnel out of Myanmar

The State Department has ordered the departure of all non-emergency US government personnel and their family members from Myanmar as deadly crackdowns by the country's military continue.

Tease photo

Two US Capitol Police officers sue Trump and say he should be held responsible for January 6 attack

Two US Capitol Police officers who say they were injured during the January 6 insurrection are suing former President Donald Trump for inciting the crowd.

Tease photo

A Check Up For NAACP President Derrick Johnson

We understand that Mr. Johnson, as President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), serves at the pleasure of the National Board that appointed him. But we also understand that this national association is, and always has been, as strong as its members. The members are hardworking volunteers who have replicated themselves in service for more than 100 years. Within each Chapter or Branch, people have been elected to serve as presidents of those units because of the faith in their service and leadership.

Tease photo

Biden administration launches $10 million ad campaign, leaders' network to encourage vaccination

The Biden administration on Thursday unveiled a large-scale effort to encourage Americans to get vaccinated against the coronavirus, rolling out its first national ad campaign and announcing a national network of community organizations, sports leagues and other leaders to boost confidence in the vaccines.

Tease photo

The Seven Last Words of George Floyd

The commemoration of Good Friday is a solemn and holy event for Christians. We cannot get to the resurrection of Jesus Christ without traversing through the crucifixion, death, and burial of God’s only begotten son. One of the dividing lines among Christian traditions is the context of Jesus’s Passion and death. When we separate Jesus from His worldly environment and circumstances—being persecuted as a Jewish teacher by a foreign empire and betrayed by compatriots who were threatened by His message and witness—we lose sight that Jesus, both fully God and man, was gruesomely murdered.

Tease photo

Bipartisan bill would provide $1 billion fund to handle migration influx at southern border

Key House lawmakers introduced bipartisan legislation Thursday that would address repeated funding and resource shortfalls that occur during large upswings in the number of migrants arriving at the US-Mexico border.

Tease photo

Trump's own statements in old lawsuit could haunt him in any future criminal case

Donald Trump once said he calculated his net worth, to a degree, on his "feelings," and that he put the "best spin" on some of the assets.

Tease photo

Kamala Harris dives into migration diplomacy as GOP aims to make her the face of the border crisis

Vice President Kamala Harris and her team are staring down attempts to make her the face of the Biden administration's response to the crisis at the border, a little more than a week after being assigned a role that positions her in the center of one of the administration's most divisive issues.

Tease photo

Texas Senate advances bill with new voter restrictions

The Texas State Senate advanced a far-reaching elections bill early Thursday with several provisions placing new restrictions on the voting process, particularly for those living in densely populated counties.

Tease photo

Astros Open Their 2021 Season Against Divisional Opponent Seeking Revenge

Although the fans of the Houston Astros will have to wait a little longer to hear the umpires yell “Play Ball” to open up the 2021 Major League Baseball season for the Astros, most do not have a problem with that at all. Houston will take on the reigning American League West Champions Oakland A’s in a nationally televised game in Oakland on Thursday.