Stories for January 2022

Monday, January 31

Tease photo

Jalen Green Trying To Follow In The Footsteps Of Steph Curry

That’s like a big bro. I was struggling a little bit in the G League, and he (Curry) sent me a voice message like, ‘Man, just keep shooting.’ I don’t know how many nights had been in that shooting slump, but I just kept shooting. He’s always giving me advice. I can hit him up whenever I need to.

Friday, January 28

Tease photo

Houston Author J. Elle Releases Highly Anticipated Winter Read Ashes of Gold

The forthcoming finale to her New York Times-bestselling YA "Wings of Ebony" duology, Ashes of Gold was released on January 11, 2022.

Tease photo

Commissioner Ellis’ Statement in Support of Congress Members’ Call to the Justice Department for Help Regarding Mail Ballots in Texas

Voting is a sacred right and among the most important hallmarks of our democracy. In Harris County, the State of Texas, and the nation, we have seen these fundamental rights stripped away from people.

Tease photo

Houston Recruiter Selected as CNRC FY-21 Recruiter of the Nation

Commander, Navy Recruiting Command (CNRC) recently named Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Berly Lue, a recruiter assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Houston, the 2021 CNRC Enlisted Recruiter of the Year (EROY) - active component (AC). Colloquially referred to as the recruiter of the nation, Lue outperformed more than 3,000 of her peers at 26 NTAGs across the nation to earn her spot as Navy recruiting's top gun. During a year with as many consequential and unforgettable events as the turbulent year of 2020, Lue met challenges head-on with unrelenting discipline and poise earning NTAG Houston Nuclear Recruiter of the Year and AC Talent Scout of the Year along the way.

Tease photo

Voting Rights Now!

For African Americans, freedom, citizenship and the right to vote are inextricably linked. With the victory of the Union in the Civil War, the Civil Rights Amendments to the Constitution -- the 13th, 14th and 15th --were passed, freeing the slaves, requiring equal justice for all, and protecting the right to vote against discrimination. Those rights were trampled by segregation, an apartheid regime shamefully ratified by a reactionary Supreme Court. It took 100 years and the civil rights movement to end segregation and pass the Voting Rights Act once more enforcing the right to vote.

Tease photo

The Biden Pick: Representation Matters

It is time for African American Woman on the Supreme Court

President Joe Biden made many promises to Americans on the campaign trail in 2020. One of which was to ensure that appointments he made would reflect the diverse nature of these united states. A more specific nod to diversify was his commitment to nominate an African American woman to the Supreme Court. With the announcement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s retirement, President Biden is posed to stand by his word and make history while doing so.

Wednesday, January 26

DivInc Houston Launches Inaugural 5G Sports Tech Accelerator in partnership with Verizon

The accelerator program supports startup s led by underrepresented founders changing the future of sports and esports.

DivInc, the premier startup accelerator for people of color and women entrepreneurs, is proud to announce the launch of its first Sports Tech Accelerator made possible through support from title sponsor, Verizon.

Houston Health Department launching $1,000 COVID-19 vaccination incentive program

Hundreds of people to get chance at $50 gift cards

The Houston Health Department is launching a new program to encourage more Houstonians to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The 6-week initiative will award 12 people $1,000 gift cards and provide $50 gift cards to hundreds of additional people.

U.S. Department of Education Solicits Public Comments on the Project Prevent Grant Program

The Department issues notice of proposed priorities to direct funds toward local educational agencies to implement community- and school-based strategies to help prevent and mitigate gun crime and other forms of community violence

People For Statement on the Retirement of Justice Stephen Breyer

Following reports today that Justice Stephen Breyer will retire form the U.S. Supreme Court at the end of this term, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

National Charity League, Inc, Forms New Chapter in Houston, TX

National Charity League, Inc. (NCL), the nation’s premier mother-daughter non-profit organization, announced the formation of the Palomas Chapter. With the addition of the Palomas Chapter, NCL now has 289 chapters across the country and 40 chapters in Houston, TX.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Announces EPA Action to Aid Kashmere Gardens, 5th Ward and other Areas Impacted by creosote contamination by the Railroads in the Region

“EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Biden Administration are taking important steps forward to help the people in my Congressional District, who live in Kashmere Garden, 5th Ward and Northeast areas of Houston and Harris County that comprise the 18th Congressional District. The announcement today is going to change lives by focusing needed resources on a problem that has gone too long without a remedy. Over the years I have been holding discussions and meeting cancer victims and listening to the stories of families who lost loved ones to cancer and other diseases over generations. We are desperate for relief. I have been disappointed by the unwillingness of previous Administrations to act to protect residents. Biden Administration has changed that by taking action.

Rooftop Cinema Club opens 2022 season earlier than ever on Valentine’s weekend; tickets on sale Feb. 1

Venue opens Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, with “Pretty Woman” and “Love & Basketball”

Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown will open its 2022 season earlier than ever before, just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, with “Pretty Woman” and “Love & Basketball” kicking things off on opening night. The ultimate open-air cinema experience in Uptown Houston located at 1700 Post Oak Blvd. today offers fans a first look at its Valentine’s weekend lineup so they can start making plans ahead of tickets going on sale for the full February lineup next Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022, at noon.

President Biden Announces Six New Nominees to Serve as U.S. Attorneys

President Biden is announcing six new nominees to serve as U.S. Attorneys across the country, officials who will be indispensable to upholding the rule of law as the top federal law enforcement officials for their districts.

Tuesday, January 25

Tease photo

Bravo Announces New Top Chef "Cheftestants" and Houston Chef Evelyn Garcia is in the mix!

Emmy-Winning Digital Companion Series “Top Chef: Last Chance Kitchen” Returns Thursday, March 10

Houston, we have “Top Chef!” Bravo’s “Top Chef,” will call Houston, the nation’s fourth largest city, home for season 19, launching with a supersized premiere on Thursday, March 3 from 8:00 – 9:15 pm ET/PT. The Emmy and James Beard Award-Winning series, produced by Magical Elves, returns with host Padma Lakshmi, head judge Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons. Expect the unexpected as 15 talented chefs from across the country vie for the coveted title bringing their unique skillsets, variety of cuisines and gamut of flavors.

Tease photo

Four attorneys general sue Google for 'deceptive' location tracking

A bipartisan group of attorneys general sued Google on Monday, alleging that the technology giant has used "dark patterns" and deceptive practices to track users' physical location even when those users have made efforts to block Google from doing so.

Tease photo

Memorial Park's Land Bridge Tunnel Preview Party on Saturday, February 5

Opportunity for public to explore and celebrate transformational project before tunnels open to traffic

Memorial Park Conservancy along with project partners the City of Houston, Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Kinder Foundation and Uptown Houston invite Houstonians for a FREE event celebrating Memorial Park’s transformational Land Bridge and Prairie project. Attendees will enjoy an exclusive opportunity to walk through and explore one of the project’s four tunnels before they open to vehicular traffic.

Readout of Secretaries Cardona and Mayorkas's Meeting with HBCU Presidents on International Day of Education

Today, on International Day of Education, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas hosted a discussion with presidents of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) from across the nation to share information on grant programs, training resources, research opportunities, and other tools available to HBCUs to strengthen campus safety and security. The meeting was part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing commitment to ensure HBCUs have equitable access to the resources and support they need to effectively execute their critical missions.

Harmony Public Schools awarded grant to provide computer, internet access to thousands of low-income students

Harmony Public Schools is a free, open enrollment public charter school serving families in 23 communities across Texas.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has awarded Harmony Public Schools a $539,000 grant to connect low-income students with access to computers and the internet.

Tease photo

Getty Images, the Getty Family and Stand Together Announce Recipients of Inaugural Grant to Preserve the Visual History of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Claflin University, Jackson State, North Carolina Central University, and Prairie View A&M University awarded $500,000 grant to digitize their archival photographic libraries

Getty Images, a preeminent global visual content creator and marketplace, in partnership with the Getty Family and Stand Together, a philanthropic community tackling some of the biggest challenges of our times, today announced the recipients of the inaugural Getty Images Photo Archive Grant for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Axalta commits to new sustainability goals for 2030

Axalta (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global supplier of liquid and powder coatings, today announced its commitment to an absolute reduction of 50 percent of Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, on its way to becoming carbon neutral in its operations by 2040 – one decade ahead of the deadline set by the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. In addition, the company has made 10 new sustainability commitments for 2030. Key among these is the commitment to produce sustainability benefits from 80 percent of Axalta's new product developments.

Tease photo

World Renowned Artist Alexandra Nechita to Exhibit in Houston

Off the Wall Gallery, Houston’s premier fine art gallery is honored to present the ground-breaking exhibition “Alexandra Nechita: Setting the Stage”.

Tease photo

Jackson State University Selected as Recipient of Getty Images Grant to Uncover and Digitize Rarely Seen Imagery from its Archival Photographic Library

Jackson State University today announced it is one four recipients of the inaugural Getty Images Photo Archive Grant for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), an initiative aimed at preserving and amplifying the invaluable visual history of HBCUs.

Recording Academy Announces Partnership With GLAAD To Foster LGBTQ+ Inclusion In The Music Community

With the Partnership, the Recording Academy Donates $150,000 to GLAAD to Advance LGBTQ+ Representation in Music

The world's leading society of music creators, the Recording Academy®, has donated $150,000 to GLAAD, the world's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) media advocacy organization, to support its work to diversify the music industry and champion musicians in the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to the donation, the Recording Academy and GLAAD announced a partnership for 2022 to further promote inclusion in this space through various initiatives, including:

Keep COVID-19 Precautions, Along with Romance, on Your Radar on Valentine’s Day

Show your love by helping your sweetie prevent allergy and asthma flares

It all feels eerily familiar. A Valentine’s Day that will involve helping to keep our sweethearts safe from COVID-19, and for those with allergies and asthma, keeping symptoms and triggers at bay.

Announcing the 2022 iHeartCountry Lineup: Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band, and more!

Hosted by Bobby Bones, the iHeartCountry Festival Will Take Place at the New “Moody Center” in Austin, Texas on Saturday, May 7

iHeartMedia announced today the return of the iHeartCountry Festival Presented by Capital One on Saturday, May 7. Now in its ninth year, the 2022 lineup will feature Country music’s hottest artists including Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band, Maren Morris, Dustin Lynch, Jimmie Allen, Scotty McCreery, Cody Johnson and more performing live at the new “Moody Center” in Austin, hosted once again by iHeartMedia's nationally-syndicated top on-air Country personality, Bobby Bones.

Thurgood Marshall College Fund Continues its Legacy of Partnership with Leading Global Medicines Company

Novartis US Foundation HBCU Scholarship Application Now Open

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Novartis, a leading global medicines company, announced the opening of applications for the Novartis US Foundation HBCU Scholarship, designed to reduce financial barriers for students and equip the next generation of leaders in health, business and social equity related fields. Novartis has committed $20 million over 10 years to TMCF, which represents America’s publicly supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs).

Teach For America Houston Launches Tutoring Program to Help Students Address Learning Recovery

The Ignite Fellowship Provides Tutors to Support 3rd and 8th Grade Houston Students Through Small Virtual Cohorts

Teach For America Houston announced the launch of its new tutoring program, the Ignite Fellowship, which is focused on helping 3rd through 8th grade Houston students address learning loss from the pandemic.

‘Lefty’ tightens control of embryonic development

Inhibitor protein shown to regulate Nodal signaling relay during tissue patterning

A protein known as Lefty pumps the brakes as human embryos begin to differentiate into the bones, soft tissues and organs that make us.

Amy Schneider breaks new 'Jeopardy' record with winning streak

Schneider won her 39th game and also became No. 2 on the all-time consecutive wins list for the game show. Schneider, an engineering manager from Oakland, now has a total winning pot of $1,319,800.

Tease photo

The 2021 tax filing season has begun. Here's what you need to know

The federal tax filing season has begun. And it's going to be tough sledding for the IRS -- and for some tax filers -- given the millions of returns from last year that still have to be processed, staffing issues due to Covid-19 and a lack of needed funding for the agency.

Tease photo

Snow blankets Greece and Turkey as wild weather system creates rare 'snownado'

A rare and severe snowstorm has blanketed parts of Greece and Turkey, causing chaos on the streets of major cities and forcing the evacuation of thousands of people.

Tease photo

Performances Of Off-Broadway Shows At The Theater Center Temporarily Called Off After Thieves Break In, Steal Copper Piping

“Perfect Crime” — the Off-Broadway play — needs help solving an actual crime at its theater.

AFCON: Report into deadly stadium crush will focus on who closed gate that led to loss of lives

The president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has said a report into a stadium crush in the Cameroonian capital of Yaoundé will center on who closed the gate at the Olembe Stadium.

Tease photo

Tonga eruption was 'hundreds of times' more powerful than Hiroshima atomic bomb, NASA say

The eruption this month of an underwater volcano near Tonga was hundreds of times more powerful than the Hiroshima atomic bomb, according to NASA.

Tease photo

'It belongs to everyone': Australian government buys rights to Aboriginal flag for $14 million

Australia's government has bought the copyright to the Aboriginal flag, making it freely available for public use and ending a longstanding battle over the design.

SAT will soon be all-digital and shortened from 3 hours to 2

The SAT taken by prospective college students across the country will go all-digital starting in 2024 and will be an hour shorter, the College Board announced in a statement Tuesday.

Tease photo

Australian Open relaxes rule against Peng Shuai protest T-shirt, Craig Tiley tells AFP

The Australian Open will allow people to wear shirts that say "Where is Peng Shuai?" CEO of Tennis Australia Craig Tiley told Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Tuesday.

Stocks slide as volatility continues

It's no turnaround Tuesday on Wall Street: Stocks resumed their selloff at the opening bell for another ride on the market roller coaster.

Illinois State Trooper, Woman Found Shot Dead In Car On Southeast Side

A man who was a trooper with the Illinois State Police and a woman were found shot dead Monday afternoon in a car in the East Side neighborhood.

Monday, January 24

Man searches for paramedics who saved his life 28 years ago

It’s been nearly three decades since Dave Murphy was stabbed outside an Ottawa mall. "I suffered from severe PTSD," Murphy said. "I couldn’t even talk about it, couldn’t think about it. If I saw anyone that looked like those guys, I'd get off the train or look the other way."

UK's Boris Johnson attended a gathering for his birthday while the rest of the country was in lockdown

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson celebrated his birthday with a gathering at his official residence in June 2020 while the United Kingdom was in its first Covid-19 lockdown, a spokesperson said Monday, marking the latest scandal for the country's leader.

Tease photo

Srage 13 Docuseries "MARCH" on HBCU Band Life Debuts Tonight on The CW

Step into the riveting and demanding world of the Marching Storm, the award-winning band at HBCU Prairie View A&M University, as its members strive to climb in the rankings, balance the demands of life and school, and carry the bold legacy of the university. Stage 13’s docuseries MARCH debuts on Monday, January 24 at 8:00pm ET/PT on The CW. The 8-episode series is executive produced by Jamail Shelton (“Love & Hip Hop”), Emmy winner Cheryl Horner McDonough (“The T Word”), and Stage 13 EPs Shari Scorca and Marcel Fuentes.

Tease photo

Kem and Babyface Coming to NRG Arena

R&B LEGENDS KEM & KENNY ‘BABYFACE’ EDMONDS ANNOUNCE “THE FULL CIRCLE TOUR” HOSTED BY SHERRI SHEPHERD

Tease photo

Dolly Parton celebrated her 76th birthday in her 'birthday suit'

Dolly Parton's idea of a "birthday suit" is slightly more sedate than you might imagine. The singing legend celebrated her 76th birthday Wednesday by posting a photo of her wearing a pink outfit with red lace accents on her verified Twitter account.

Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show set to be a '90s lovefest

A trailer for this year's Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show is a cinematic treat featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar in a '90s-style video.

Fans sue Universal Pictures for cutting Ana de Armas from film

Two fans of the actress Ana de Armas are suing the studio Universal Pictures for allegedly duping them into renting a film because they believed she would be in it due to trailers and promotional material.

Tease photo

Opening statements begin Monday in criminal trial of Michael Avenatti over Stormy Daniels' book deal

Opening statements are set to start Monday in Manhattan in a third criminal case against Michael Avenatti, the once high-flying celebrity lawyer who rose to fame by representing adult-film star Stormy Daniels in her bid to terminate a hush-money deal that silenced her allegations of an affair with former President Donald Trump.

Tease photo

Supreme Court takes up case that could limit federal government's jurisdiction over wetlands

The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to take up a case that could limit the federal government's jurisdiction over wetlands protected under the Clean Water Act.

Tease photo

Biden administration identifying troops for possible deployment to Eastern Europe amid Russia tensions

The Biden administration is in the final stages of identifying specific military units it wants to send to Eastern Europe and writing up the military orders in an effort to deter Russia, which has massed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, according to multiple US and defense officials.

Texas sheriff's deputy struck, killed while conducting off-duty motorcycle escort

The Harris County, Texas, Sheriff's Office (HCSO) Monday announced the death of one of its officers who was struck and killed overnight while conducting an off-duty motorcycle escort.

Dozens of dogs and cats rescued from hoarding case up for adoption in Massachusetts

Dozens of cats and dogs rescued from a hoarding case in Tulsa, Oklahoma are now in Massachusetts and will soon be looking for new homes, the MSPCA says.

Clark Atlanta University School of Business Hosts Supply Chain and Logistics Innovators for Forward Forum

The Clark Atlanta University School of Business Administration (CAU-SBA) will begin its Forward Forum series next week, featuring diverse innovators who are changing the face and future of their respective industries. The virtual event will be held Tuesday, January 25, 2022, at 11:30 AM.

Tease photo

Nicolas Jimenez Named Director of Government Affairs for Comcast’s Houston Region

Nicolas Jimenez has been named director of Government Affairs for Comcast’s Houston Region. In this role, Jimenez will be responsible for overseeing regulatory, franchising, and public policy matters across the entire region.

Friday, January 21

Tease photo

H-E-B's Scott McClelland to Retire December 31st

Houstonians have fallen in love with H-E-B’s top guy, Scott McClelland. He is such an all around good guy whose personality matched his actions and made Houstonians fall in love with H-E-B even more. Now McClelland has announced that it is time for him to move on and inch towards retirement.

Tease photo

Howard University and At Least 7 Other HBCUs Receive Bomb Threats

At least eight historically Black colleges and universities received bomb threats Tuesday, school officials said, triggering abrupt evacuations of students and employees. Spelman College, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Florida Memorial University, Howard University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University, Prairie View A&M University in Texas, and Xavier University of Louisiana reported bomb threats. No explosions occurred.

Tease photo

Dr. Bernice King: ‘Voting Is the Heart and Soul of Our Democracy’

Since 1986, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day has been observed by Americans, taking place on the third Monday in January. It is a day to celebrate the civil rights icon as he was an advocate for nonviolent protests during the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s.

Tease photo

Houston Native Promoted in U.S. Navy Reserve

Houston native was advanced to third class petty officer during her drill weekend with U.S. Naval Forces South-ern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet Reserve Component (NR COMUSNAVSO/C4F) in Mayport, Florida on January 8.

Tease photo

Dr. King's Work Is Not Yet Done

Yesterday, we celebrated the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King. It is an extraordinary national tribute to a leader who did not amass a fortune, nor command an army, nor hold elective office, and yet transformed America. In the U.S., we too often love martyrs and not marches. We honor those who sacrifice - after they are dead. Yet, Dr. King's example when he was alive holds lessons for us today.

Tease photo

Preserving the Black Church Is a Job for All Americans

Black churches have a long history of being the central focus of the community. More than a religious institution, Black churches are safe spaces where people can come to seek shelter from a storm, fill their empty belly, educate their children, find employment opportunities, and have their mind, body, and soul blessed. The church is a place where one can come broken and be made whole. These institutions represent so much good it is puzzling why so much bad happens to their structure and people.

Thursday, January 20

Tease photo

Angelique Bartholomew Joins Houston-Based Women-Owned Consulting Management Firm As Partner

Managing Partners Laurie Robin- son, MBA, and Tara DeAndrea, RHIA of PVMA, LLC released a joint statement on their admission to the partnership. "This is an unprecedented climate for the Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure, and Healthcare industries, it will require exceptional teams and experience for the future of Recovery efforts. Angelique Bartholomew has the experience and commitment we need to move forward in 2022. Angelique has 20+ years of public and private sector experience in project and program management. She has a consistent award-winning track record in Business Development. Angelique has teamed with global firms, led prime opportunities, and built exceptional revenue growth through strategic partnerships across the country in disaster recovery. We are pleased to have her on board."

Tease photo

Garrison Mathews Confidence Helps Him Out Of Shooting Slump

“When you have a good shooting game, your confidence starts to build back up,” said Mathews about having back-to-back good games. “I had a tough few games, but that is just going to happen. The main thing for me is to not get so high or too low. When you are a shooter, you are going to have games like that or little stretches like that, but it is very important as a shooter to just keep your confidence all the time.

Wednesday, January 19

Tease photo

Coke is giving its cans a makeover

Coca-Cola is fighting for your attention. The company is unveiling a new look for flavored Coke products this month, and it has a new Coke variety coming in a few weeks. It's part of the company's renewed focus on its Coke brand, as it dumps niche products and tries to drum up excitement for its core beverages.

City of Houston Awarded $150,000 Grant from the National League of Cities to Promote Equitable Career Opportunities for Youth

The City of Houston has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the National League of Cities (NLC), as part of a new initiative to make true economic opportunity a reality for youth and young adults who are marginalized from quality education and career opportunities. In addition to the monetary award, Houston joins the five other cities from across the nation who will also receive specialized assistance from NLC’s staff and other national experts to advance the city’s efforts to expand STEM career pathways for marginalized young people.

Mayor Turner's Statement on Voter Registration Card Shortage in Texas

Mayor Sylvester today issued the following statement in response to reports that the Texas Secretary of State's office will distribute fewer voter registration forms to groups ahead of elections this year.

Tease photo

Fashion icon André Leon Talley is dead at age 73

André Leon Talley, the former longtime creative director for Vogue and a fashion icon in his own right, has died at age 73, according to a statement on his official Instagram account.

Tease photo

Grammy Awards relocate to Las Vegas and move to April

The Grammy Awards have a new date and location. CBS and the Recording Academy announced Tuesday that the music event will take place in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 3, one week after the Academy Awards. The ceremony was originally going to occur later this month in Los Angeles, but it was postponed due to the pandemic.

Tease photo

Steve Harvey 'uncomfortable' with Michael B. Jordan and Lori Harvey's PDA

Some things your dad probably isn't meant to see. During a recent appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," Steve Harvey said he was "uncomfortable" looking at a photo of his daughter, Lori Harvey, sitting on the lap of her boyfriend, actor Michael B. Jordan.

Tease photo

Cardi B pledges to pay funeral costs for Bronx fire victims

Rapper Cardi B plans to pay the funeral costs for those who lost their lives in a deadly fire in that New York City borough.

Tease photo

Biden needs to answer these 5 questions about the economy

From startlingly high inflation and empty grocery store shelves to elevated prices at the pump, Americans are frustrated with the state of the economy.

Takeaways and new details from the New York AG's investigation into Trump's business empire

New York Attorney General Letitia James laid out new, specific details about what her office believes to be "misleading or fraudulent" financial statements from former President Donald Trump's business empire in a late-night court filing on Tuesday.

Tease photo

Teen convicted of killing Tessa Majors in a New York City park will be sentenced today

More than two years after the killing of Barnard College freshman Tessa Majors, the third and final teen who pleaded guilty in her case will learn his fate Wednesday.

Palestinian family home demolished in sensitive East Jerusalem neighborhood

A Palestinian family has been removed from their home in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in East Jerusalem in an overnight operation carried out by Israeli police.

Tease photo

‘Humble, generous, hardworking’ owner of iconic bakery unexpectedly dies

A longtime baker and beloved member of the community passed away unexpectedly Monday.

Tide is raising prices on laundry detergent

It's going to cost you more to wash your clothes. Procter & Gamble said Wednesday that it was raising prices by an average of about 8% on retail customers next month for its Tide and Gain laundry detergents, Downy fabric softener and Bounce dryer sheets.

Worker injured in explosion at Table Mountain Casino suffered second, third-degree burns

Maria Magallon wasn't sure how much she should worry when she got the phone call telling her what happened to her son Monday afternoon.

Tease photo

Senate Republicans again expected to block Democrats' voting legislation

Senate Republicans are expected to once again block a voting bill put forward by Democrats in the latest partisan showdown over voting rights, an issue Democrats are seeking to spotlight despite the fact that they lack the votes to pass the legislation.

Tease photo

Europe rolled out 5G without hurting aviation. Here's how

Major international airlines are canceling flights to the United States over aviation industry fears that 5G technology could interfere with crucial onboard instruments.

Boston Police Subdue Knife-Wielding Man With Bean Bag Round On Mass Ave.

Police officers subdued a knife-wielding man with a bean bag round during an incident Tuesday afternoon on Mass Ave. in Boston. Cell phone video captured the suspect backing down Huntington Ave., yelling at the swarm of officers tracking him as they demanded he drop the knife.

Another Wolf Attack In Colorado: 1 Cow Euthanized Afterwards, Another Injured

Colorado Parks and Wildlife reported another wolf attack in Colorado. Officers received a report of the attack on two cows in Jackson County on Tuesday morning.

Tease photo

Biden signs memo to boost spy agencies' cyber defenses

President Joe Biden on Wednesday signed a national security memorandum to bolster cybersecurity for sensitive computer systems used by the Pentagon and US spy agencies amid an array of hacking threats from foreign governments.

Tease photo

TUBI HONORS BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH THOUSANDS OF HOURS OF PREMIUM BLACK CINEMA

ALL-NEW ORIGINAL MUSICAL DRAMA “HOWARD HIGH," AND ORIGINAL MUSIC DOCUMENTARY “PASS THE MIC”

Debuting Friday, February 4, HOWARD HIGH features all-star cast of singers and dancers, including Chrissy Stokes, Anthony Lewis, Earanequa Carter, Lindsay Davis, Veronika Bozeman, Jarell Houston, Christian Gonzalez, Kida Burns, Marques Houston, and award-winning R&B singer-songwriter Keith Sweat.

Tease photo

Naples' new tourist site rewrites ancient history

It's world-famous for the Roman ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 C.E., but the latest tourist attraction in Naples shows a very different side of the city.

Flush with cash, big companies are ready to buy up rivals and reward investors

Microsoft's massive acquisition of Activision Blizzard is notable for several reasons, not the least of which is that it's spending nearly $70 billion -— in cash — to make the deal. That means Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is essentially going to write a check for Activision Blizzard.

Enes Kanter Freedom is prepared to visit China, but only if he can see 'the real China'

NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom says he would accept a visit to China -- as long as he gets to see "the real China," rather than "propaganda."

Tease photo

Incredible photo of a shark shows mysterious bite mark on its side

Photographer Jalil Najafov's first thought when he saw the great white was: "Is that real?"

Britney Spears sends cease-and-desist letter to sister demanding she stop talking about her on book tour

The public feud between Britney Spears and her sister Jamie Lynn Spears is far from over. Spears' lawyer, Mathew Rosengart, sent a leg

Tease photo

What is C-band 5G? Verizon and AT&T are flipping on the switch in the US

The next-generation of wireless technology is now even faster for 5G users in some parts of the country.

Tease photo

Tiger Woods names Aaron Beverly as recipient of Charlie Sifford exemption to play PGA Tour event

Tiger Woods has named Aaron Beverly as the recipient of the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption which will grant him entry to the 2022 Genesis Invitational.

Tease photo

French actor Gaspard Ulliel dead in skiing accident at 37

French actor Gaspard Ulliel, best known for playing Hannibal Lecter in "Hannibal Rising," has died at the age of 37 after a skiing accident in southeastern France.

Stranded: Community steps up to help after Mission nurse's vehicle stolen during storm

A Mission ICU nurse and her co-workers woke up Sunday morning ready to go to work after staying at a downtown hotel. But instead, they found themselves stranded after someone apparently stole their car.

Tuesday, January 18

Tease photo

Law ES fourth-grader wins 26th Annual MLK Jr. Oratory Competition

Houston Independent School District fourth-grader Ronnie Williams of Law Elementary School won the Foley & Lardner LLP 26th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratory Competition.

Tease photo

Book Review: "Out of Office: The Big Problem and Bigger Promise of Working from Home" by Charlie Warzel and Anne Helen Petersen

At least the commute is better. That's what you tell yourself every morning: 15 steps from bed to office is better than 15 miles. You've been working from home now for nearly two years and you're waffling: will it be like this forever and if so, is that good? Read "Out of Office" by Charlie Warzel and Anne Helen Petersen, and it could be...

Tease photo

The Silent "White" in AMerica

On a recent Sunday broadcast of NBC’s “Meet the Press,” viewers witnessed a classic example of the decoupling of people of color from notions of America.

Tease photo

AboutThatCar.com 2021 Lexus UX 200

The Lexus UX 200 may be the least recognized but most accomplished of the luxury brand’s crossovers and sport utilities.

Tease photo

Dallas-Area High School Students Selected to Participate in Landmark 15th Year of Disney Dreamers Academy Program

The exclusive Walt Disney World Resort mentorship event that fosters the dreams of Black students and teens from underrepresented communities plans to return in March with reimagined programming and a

Disney Dreamers Academy, an educational mentorship program created and hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, plans to return with a reimagined approach, March 3-6, marking its 15th year of broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America. Four Dallas-area teens will be part of the 100 high school students to participate in the exclusive program’s Class of 2022. They are:

Houston Soulfood Bistro, The Greasy Spoon Celebrates Owner's Birthday and Highly Anticipated Grand Opening of Pearland Location!

During MLK weekend, one of Houston's favorite soul food bistros, The Greasy Spoon, celebrated owner, Max Bozeman II 38th birthday and the highly anticipated grand opening of TGS's new Pearland location. For months the question from Houstonians has been, "When will the Pearland location open?" Bozeman answered that question in a major way this past weekend with a lavish Grand opening experience to welcome all of the Pearland community.

Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Announces Latest Round of Investments, Partnerships and Grants to Kick Off 2022

One Million Black Women announces new investments, impactful partnerships and philanthropic grants for 17 leading organizations and projects across the country to lift up Black women and girls.

Tease photo

Opinion| The Everlasting Dream

Last year in this space, I sought to honor the sacrifices of Martin Luther King Jr. by focusing on some of the gains made by the black community since Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act (1964) and the Voting Rights Act (1965). As part of the academic community, I celebrated the increases in high school and college graduation rates. Also, during the same period since the 1960s, the poverty rates decreased because of measurable gains in median household incomes.

Tease photo

City of Houston Seeks Artists for Sculpture and Mural Works for New North Belt Public Safety Complex

The City of Houston Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA), in collaboration with the Houston Police Department (HPD) and the Houston Fire Department (HFD), has released a request for qualifications for two art pieces that will be displayed at the new North Belt Public Safety Complex.

City of Houston Awarded $150,000 Grant from the National League of Cities to Promote Equitable Career Opportunities for Youth

The City of Houston has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the National League of Cities (NLC), as part of a new initiative to make true economic opportunity a reality for youth and young adults who are marginalized from quality education and career opportunities. In addition to the monetary award, Houston joins the five other cities from across the nation who will also receive specialized assistance from NLC’s staff and other national experts to advance the city’s efforts to expand STEM career pathways for marginalized young people.

U.S. Department of Education Announces Distribution of All American Rescue Plan ESSER Funds and Approval of All 52 State Education Agency Plans

Today, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) announced that every state education agency (SEA) received approval of their American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) plan before the end of December 2021. As a result, the Department has distributed all $122 billion of ARP ESSER funds to all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Visit Lake Charles Encourages Everyone to Celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day!

National Plan for Vacation Day (NPVD) is Tuesday, Jan. 25, and Visit Lake Charles and the U.S. Travel Association are encouraging everyone to plan time off for the entire year at the start of the year. After nearly two years of pandemic stress and fatigue, this is an opportunity for Americans to look ahead to brighter days and make plans for getaways or vacations over the coming months.

Tease photo

What Do I Do IF…COVID Decision Guide

1. When Should I Get Tested The most obvious time to get tested for COVID-19 is when you have noticeable symptoms.

PERRY HOMES NOW SELLING NEW HOMES IN AUDUBON COMMUNITY IN MAGNOLIA

Perry Homes, one of the largest and most trusted builders in Texas, is expanding in Magnolia.

Tease photo

Access Granted: Covering the Cost For Your Meds

Are you able to cover the cost of your meds? It could easily put a dent in your pockets if you are battling major health challenges. Let’s face it: Coming to terms with the fact that you have a lifelong disease can be mentally draining. Trying to figure out how you will be able to afford your medications is an extra layer of stress that can be detrimental to your illness.

Tease photo

Black Designer Launches Luxury Handbag and Accessories Line

Meet Ndidi Obi, founder and CEO of a refreshing new Black-owned, luxury brand called Ndidi Obi USA Inc. that poised to take us to the next level in fashion. Utilizing a Black-owned USA-based manufacturer is a take notice feature for the new brand. “Our mission is to bring the finest quality of luxury goods to people who desire more,” she says.

Tease photo

Black Family-Owned Construction Firm Awarded 7 Multi-Million Contracts Including JFK Airport

Meet Darrell K. Choates, Sr., his father, his son, and his grandson (that’s 4 generations), the owners of Choates G Contracting LLC, a Black-owned construction firm headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The company has recently scored — not one or two — but seven new multi-million dollar contracts including a $30 million construction project at JFK Airport’s Terminal 1 in New York City and a $25 million construction project in Ghana.

'I'm 60 and sexy': Jim Carrey celebrates milestone birthday

Jim Carrey celebrated his 60th birthday on Monday and took to social media to remind us of the goofball humor that's made him one of comedy's most enduring stars over the last 30 years.

Blinken to travel to Ukraine and Germany this week

Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Ukraine and Germany this week as the Russian threat toward Ukraine continues to loom.

Putin and Biden are caught in a high-stakes gamble over Ukraine

It is a very bad idea -- for all concerned. Yet the drumbeat towards another war in Ukraine is amplifying itself, taking on a life of its own, in a huge, high-risk maneuver by either the Biden administration or Moscow, or both.

'Highly improbable': Experts dispute claim Beijing Omicron case from Canadian mail

After the city of Beijing announced its first reported case of the Omicron variant, Chinese officials alleged that the virus may have travelled to the city through a piece of mail from Canada—a claim experts say doesn't add up.

European study finds action video games can help a child's reading ability

A team of researchers in Italy and Switzerland found that children can achieve long-term reading improvements by playing as little as two hours of action video games per week.

'How I Met Your Father' delivers stale gender flip on the 'Mother' format

"How I Met Your Father" is billed as a sequel, not a reboot, since it incorporates a few elements of the original CBS series that ended in 2014, as opposed to just flipping the gender on it. Whatever one chooses to call it (and it's a distinction without much difference), this Hulu series feels particularly stale, with its modest wrinkles failing to offer enough to merit starting a new relationship.

Tease photo

Airlines ask Biden administration for 'immediate intervention' on 5G

Executives from the largest US airlines asked the Biden administration for "immediate intervention" in the planned rollout of 5G technology near major airports on Wednesday, warning of dire consequences for transportation and the economy.

Heating issues at school in Winchester prompt early dismissal for the entire district

Heat issues at a public school in Winchester prompted the entire district to dismiss early on Tuesday

Golden State Warriors distance themselves from team investor who said: 'Nobody cares about what's happening to the Uyghurs'

The Golden State Warriors have distanced themselves from comments made by Chamath Palihapitiya, a part owner who said that "nobody cares about what's happening to the Uyghurs."

Every Time I Die band splits

The band Every Time I Die has split over an apparent disagreement with singer Keith Buckley. Some members of the the metalcore band that first formed in 1998, including Jordan Buckley, shared a statement on social media stating "Andy, Jordan, Steve and Goose's last show with Every Time I Die was on Dec 11, 2021."

Hartford leaders plan to launch new task force after student dies from overdose

A school community in Hartford continues to grieve the death of a 13-year-old who died from a fentanyl overdose.

$388 million funding cut will force the BBC to cancel shows

The BBC has warned that it will be forced to slash services and cancel shows after the UK government froze its main source of funding, resulting in a budget shortfall of roughly $388 million.

Tease photo

Gunman in Texas synagogue standoff was known to UK security services, official says

The British national killed by the FBI after taking four people hostage at a Texas synagogue Saturday was known to UK security services and had been the subject of a brief investigation in 2020, a UK official told CNN.

Stocks fall as bond yields rise and earnings season gets into full swing

Wall Street is off to another day in the red at the start of the shortened trading week as investors are grappling with earnings seasons and rising Treasury bond yields.

NFL Pro Bowl Fast Facts

Here is a look at the NFL Pro Bowl, the all-star game of the National Football League.

Oklahoma City hospitals are at breaking point, health care system leaders say

Oklahoma City hospitals are short of staff and overwhelmed, with no ICU or inpatient beds available as the Omicron variant causes a surge of Covid-19 patients, according to an open letter from leaders of the city's four major health care systems.

Microsoft to acquire Activision Blizzard in $68.7 billion deal

Microsoft on Tuesday announced plans to acquire Activision Blizzard in a blockbuster deal worth nearly $70 billion. It's one of the biggest acquisitions in the tech industry in recent years, one that will boost Microsoft's standing in the growing gaming industry but could be complicated by recent concerns about Activision's toxic culture.

Friday, January 14

Tease photo

Texans GM Nick Caserio Sites Philosophical Differences As The Reason David Culley Was Fired

“I think it’s about moving forward, and it’s about, I would say, being open-minded to potentially making some changes, whatever those entail, whatever that constitution looks like,” said Caserio.

Tease photo

The Community Artist Collective Trio

The Community Artists’ Collective welcomes the new year with “Wisdom and Hope,” the creative offerings of local artists Hardy Allen, Daniel Tesfai, and Zymora Eikner. The exhibition opens January 21, and a reception will be on Saturday, January 22, from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Collective, 4101 San Jacinto, Suite 116. The exhibition continues through February 26.

First Lady Cecilia Abbott Announces New Partnership With Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission To Fight Human Trafficking

First Lady Cecilia Abbott today attended a press conference at the State Capitol in Austin where she announced a new partnership with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to fight human trafficking. The First Lady was joined by TABC Chairman Kevin Lilly, Executive Director Bentley Nettles, State Rep. Tony Dale and TABC law enforcement officers. TABC unveiled a public service announcement featuring the First Lady and TABC officials that builds upon the statewide "Be The One" anti-human trafficking campaign.

Governor Abbott Waives Certain Regulations To Allow Delivery Of Alcohol From Restaurants And To Support Hospitality Industry

Governor Greg Abbott today issued a waiver that will allow restaurants to deliver alcoholic beverages with food purchases to patrons, including beer, wine, and mixed drinks. The Governor also directed the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to waive certain provisions to allow manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of alcoholic beverages to repurchase or sell back unopened product.

Alcohol training company eases burden of temporarily unemployed hospitality workers during coronavirus pandemic

LIQUORexam extends 50 percent discount on TABC alcohol server training, certification during COVID-19 closures

A service that provides state-approved TABC alcohol server/seller certification and server permits is responding to the COVID-19 crisis and its impact on restaurants and bars nationwide by offering a deep discount on training toward certification.

Governor Abbott Lauds Lone Star State’s Jobs Surge

Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement following the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) release of June employment numbers showing continued economic expansion as Texas employers added 55,800 jobs over the month, marking job growth in 13 of the last 14 months, as the unemployment rate dropped to 6.5 percent as more Texans jumped back into the job market.

Tease photo

CurlDaze Hair Care Launches its Silky Hydration Line

Influencer-Founded Brand CurlDaze adds another product to its hair care collection

This month sees the highly anticipated release of CurlDaze Hair Care’s Silky Hydration Line. The line includes a Cream Shampoo, Detangling Conditioner, Detangling Leave-In Conditioner, and the highly anticipated Deep Conditioner Detangling Masque, which has been developed to ensure hair is cleansed and ready to style. These items will join the brand’s three signature products: Glossy Shine Gel, Ultra Moisture Creme with Kukui Oil, and Creamy Curl Styler with Kukui Oil. The initial product selection of stylers has sold out several times via the brand’s E-commerce resulting in a growing cult following since the 2020 launch.

The Pavilion Partners Accepting Applications for 2022 Fine Arts Scholarship Program

Each year, The Pavilion Partners offers fine arts scholarships to graduating high school seniors planning to major in the arts, as well as renewal scholarships to past recipients currently studying the arts in college. Applications for the 2022 Fine Arts Scholarship Program are currently being accepted with a deadline of January 31, 2022.

TABC issues emergency order suspending El Tucanazo’s liquor permit for 30 days following deadly Jan. 8 shooting

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission has issued an emergency order suspending the liquor permit of a Houston-area bar for 30 days following a deadly shooting that left one person dead early Jan 8.

Tease photo

Red Cross: Safely heat your home as colder weather sets in across the Texas Gulf Coast Region

Home fires typically increase during cold

It’s time to turn the heat back on in cooler parts of the country and the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast urges families to safely heat their home to avoid home fires.

Fuel your New Year with Juice Week at Original ChopShop

Neighborhood eatery with food for Every/Body to give away free juice for a year and more Jan. 17-21

Original ChopShop is kicking off 2022 by hosting its ninth-annual Juice Week celebration complete with fresh-squeezed in-app rewards, in-Shop surprises, a chance to win free juice for a year and its new headlining juice — the Caliente Kicker!

Tease photo

Richard Gray is awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry

Texas A&M Forest Service’s Richard Gray received the 2021 Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry today.

Tease photo

McDonald's Set to Pay $33.5M for Racial Discrimination Lawsuit

It’s genuinely cheaper not to be racist. Herb Washington once owned 27 McDonald’s restaurants, and now he will receive $33.5 million from the corporation after a recent lawsuit.

Goldman Sachs "One Million Black Women" Announces Latest Round of Investments, Partnerships and Grants to Kick Off 2022

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE: GS) today announced the next round of investments, partnerships and grants for the One Million Black Women initiative. The announcement was made following the January 12 One Million Black Women Advisory Council meeting, which consists of 17 Black business and community leaders. At the meeting, One Million Black Women highlighted a new partnership with the renowned King Center to prepare young people to be the global leaders of tomorrow ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Tease photo

PVAMU remembers legendary Track and Field Coach Barbara Jean Jacket

“We mourn the loss of our beloved Coach Jacket. She was an icon in the Track and Field community with a legacy of producing student-athletes who performed at the top of their game. Her groundbreaking achievements and stellar record as a coach will continue to serve as an inspiration to all. The Prairie View A&M University family offers our deepest sympathy to coach Jacket’s family and friends.” -Donald R. Reed, Ph.D., director of PVAMU Athletics.

Tease photo

Houston Author J. Elle set to release highly anticipated winter read ASHES OF GOLD on January 2022

The forthcoming finale to her New York Times-bestselling YA "Wings of Ebony" duology, ASHES OF GOLD releases January 11, 2022.

METRO's Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Schedule

METRO will operate normal weekday service for all services on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 17, 2022.

HISD Superintendent Millard House II Honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now,”- Dr. Martin Luther King

THIS MONTH: Texas Communities Bring Hope, Can-Do Spirit to School Choice Week Celebrations

Gov. Greg Abbott Issues Proclamation Recognizing Jan. 23-29 as School Choice Week

Kids learn differently, and families need education options. That's the message Texas families and educators are bringing to their celebrations of National School Choice Week 2022.

Tease photo

Healing with Food and Herbs

My first encounter with herbal healing was when I was a little Frenchman, as my uncle called me, and we visited my cousins in Elton, Louisiana. I was sick with a cold and all I can remember was a log in a pot. I drank it, within a few hours, my cold healed. I am sure it was magic, but it always sparked curiosity in herbal medicines.

Change Happens wins $100,000 grant to narrow gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity for Third Ward youth

Change Happens announced today that it has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Foot Locker Foundation Community Engagement Program to support its Each One Of Us program.

Tease photo

Miss Earth USA Announces 2022 Winner – Natalia Salmon of Pennsylvania

Miss Earth USA announces their newly crowned 2022 winner. The much-anticipated title went to Miss Pennsylvania Earth, Natalia Salmon. As part of her coronation, the winner pledges to raise awareness about environmental issues and advocate for more sustainable living throughout her reign as the 2022 titleholder.

Is it Coronavirus, The Flu, A Cold or Allergies? Here’s How to Tell

If the coronavirus wasn’t enough, it’s also cold and flu season. AND…if that wasn’t enough, we are also going into allergy season (it’s a lot, I know). But don’t worry, while some of the symptoms of all four are similar, each one has distinct qualities to figure out which infection you may have. Details for each are listed below: Coronavirus

Tease photo

How to Prepare for Your Home Search in 2022

Whether you were out bided on every home you liked or you never found the right fit because of limited inventory, you probably encountered a few challenges if you tried to buy a home last year.

Tease photo

Houston Native Serves at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island

Petty Officer 1st Class Kendrick Pope, a native of Houston, Texas, is serving with the U.S. Navy’s cutting-edge maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft squadron in Oak Harbor, Washington. Pope joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Pope serves as an intelligence specialist.

Tease photo

Best Outcome Would Be for Children to Be Back in School and Safe

The shutdown of Chicago public schools - the third largest school district in the country with 350,000 students - is headed into its second week. Everyone involved - the mayor, the school district officials, the teachers, the parents - agree that remote learning is bad for students and for parents, particularly those from lower income families. Everyone agrees that the best outcome would be for children to be back in school and safe. And there is where the problem arises.

Tease photo

Sixty-five Years Later & We Are Still Fighting to Vote

In 1957, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave an historic speech to advocate for the voting rights of African Americans in the United States. Calling the denial of African Americans’ right to vote a “tragic betrayal of the highest mandates of our democratic tradition,” Dr. King laid out what would happen if African Americans could vote. Below are excerpts from his “Give Us the Ballot” speech.

Thursday, January 13

Tease photo

19 states have fewer than 15% of ICU beds left as health care staffing shortages complicate care

As a record number of Americans are infected with Covid-19, largely due to the rapidly spreading Omicron variant, some states' health care systems are beset with nearly full intensive care units.

Tease photo

Delta posts a profit but warns Omicron will mean a loss this quarter

A strong holiday travel season helped Delta Air Lines to a better-than-forecast profit in the last three months of 2021. But it expects to lose money again in the current quarter as Covid infections surge.

RNC plans to change rules to require candidates pledge not to participate in general election debates sponsored by the Commission on Presidential Debates

The Republican National Committee said Thursday in a letter to the Commission on Presidential Debates that it is prepared to "prohibit future Republican nominees from participating in CPD-sponsored debates" unless the commission makes a number of significant changes to its procedure.

January 6 committee meets with former NYC police commissioner Bernard Kerik

Bernard Kerik, the former New York City police commissioner, is meeting with the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol Hill insurrection.

Tease photo

The NFL returns to ratings dominance

The National Football League bounced back to ratings dominance following a 2020 season that was disrupted by the pandemic — showing once again that pro football is still the biggest audience draw on television.

Prince Andrew stripped of military titles and charities amid sex abuse lawsuit

Britain's Prince Andrew has been stripped of his military titles and charities, Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday, a day after a judge ruled a sexual abuse civil lawsuit against the Queen's son could proceed.

GOP congressman apologizes for comparing DC vaccine protocols to Nazi Germany

Ohio Republican Rep. Warren Davidson apologized on Thursday for comparing Washington, DC's Covid-19 safety protocols to Nazi Germany. "Bad things happen when governments dehumanize people," said Davidson in a tweet. "Sometimes, there is a next step—to systematically segregate them. Unfortunately, any reference to how the Nazis actually did that prevents a focus on anything other than the Holocaust."

Tease photo

Lubbock, Texas is the Place to Be!

One may think that there is not much happening in West Texas, but one has not stepped in Lubbock County. Like a diamond in the rough, once you Discover West Texas, there is no denying that the culture and all it embodies will have you wanting more.

Wednesday, January 12

Tease photo

2 men arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of rapper Young Dolph

Two men are in custody after federal and local authorities arrested them in connection with the fatal shooting of rapper Young Dolph.

Tease photo

The Obamas Portraits Are Coming to Houston Thanks to MFAH

From the moment of their unveiling at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in February 2018, the official portraits of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have become iconic. Kehinde Wiley’s portrait of Barack Obama and Amy Sherald’s portrait of Michelle Obama have inspired unprecedented responses from the public.

A winter storm will swing through the East. Does Atlanta get snow? Nashville? Washington? It's still up in the air

If you live in the heart of the South, you might be dreaming of a rare snowy weekend. Don't get the snow sleds out quite yet.

Will Smith and more celebrate their SAG Award nominations

Nominations for the 2022 Screen Actors Guild Awards, highlighting acting work in film in television, were announced Wednesday. A compilation of reactions from some of the nominees follows below.

Tease photo

Catalytic converter thefts in Greater Fifth Ward ‘won’t be tolerated,’ DA Ogg says

The thieves who cut catalytic converters out of City of Houston vehicles from a municipal facility on Japhet Street last year are the latest example of those committing the rampant property crime in Harris County, and they must be held accountable, District Attorney Kim Ogg said Wednesday.

Congressman Al Green Proudly Stands with President Biden and Vice President Harris in the Fight for Passage of National Voting Rights Legislation

On Tuesday, January 11, 2022, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) released the statement below following the U.S. President and Vice President’s remarks in Atlanta, GA advocating for voting rights: Basileus Basil

District Attorney Ogg requests more prosecutors to combat county-wide violent crime

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg appeared before county commissioners Tuesday to request additional funding for 82 new prosecutors in 2022. Ogg seeks additional staffing to address three “crime drivers” spiking Harris County’s homicide and criminal victimization rates: repeat violent offenders, domestic violence and gang crime.

Tuesday, January 11

HISD COVID-19 Update

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced that Harris County has raised the COVID-19 threat level to red—the highest and most severe level.

U.S. Department of Education Emphasizes Importance of Full-Service Community Schools Through Competitive Grant Program

Department aims to scale the program to impact more children and families as communities respond to the pandemic.

Today, the U.S. Department of Education released the Notice of Proposed Priorities, definitions, and requirements for the Full-Service Community Schools competitive grant program and tomorrow is launching a 30-day public comment period for the program. These proposed priorities align with the vision set forth by the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in support of high-quality educational opportunities for all students and the important role of full-service community schools in providing wraparound and academic supports to students and families that are critical in their academic success.

Tease photo

Houston-Based Non-Profit Partners With Celebrities & Influencers To Help Inspire The Youth & Prevent Suicide!

Houston-based non-profit 501(c)3, Society of Royals, has partnered with local Houston schools to provide encouraging letters to grade school kids around the city to keep them uplifted in these difficult times, where the youth are experiencing isolation, fear of the unknown, mental challenges, and more.

Tease photo

Martin Luther King Jr Day Acts of Service Project on Texas Parkway

Give back to your community this Martin Luther King Jr Day and volunteer with MCTX At-Large #1 Councilmember Vashaundra Edwards in the “Acts of Service Project on Texas Parkway” by helping to cleanup the corridor. Interested individuals or groups, may sign up

Fort Bend County Offers Grant Funding to Nonprofits for Family Violence Prevention

Fort Bend County in support of family violence prevention invites area nonprofit service providers to sign up for the Family Protection Grant to help support survivors of domestic violence and their children.

Tease photo

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston encourages volunteers to step up during January’s National Mentoring Month

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, the region’s leading youth development organization, recognizes National Mentoring Month throughout January and encourages community members to step up and volunteer to make a difference in the lives of young people. The organization now celebrates 70 years of providing life-changing services to youth in our community, which enables them to realize bright futures.

Tease photo

Getting COVID shots in all kids begins with understanding community barriers

The new year begins with good news for anxious parents wanting COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for their children. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine booster for children 12 to 15 years of age. This means everyone over the age of 12, including adults, can get booster shots. The FDA also allows a third primary series dose for certain immunocompromised children 5 through 11 years of age.

Congressman Al Green Strongly Disapproves of the Texas GLO’s Mismanagement of Hurricane Relief Funds

On Saturday, January 8, 2022, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) released the following statement:

Tease photo

"She Raised Her Voice! 50 Black Women Who Sang Their Way into Music History" by Jordannah Elizabeth, illustrated by Briana Dengoue

Tap, tap, tap, tap. That's often the start of some good music. The sound of sticks hitting cymbals. The pat of a hand on a stomach or thigh, just keeping the beat. It's what your toes do when you're about to break out into a dance because the tunes are just so good. Tap, clap, tap, and read "She Raised Her Voice! by Jordannah Elizabeth, illustrated by Briana Dengoue.

Tease photo

Black Celebrity Soul Food Chef, Rene Johnson’s, Heart Healthy Movement

“One of the best ways you can celebrate this upcoming Black History Month is by honoring your health and longevity, and the health and longevity of your loved ones, through making some strategic tweaks to your favorite family recipes.” - Chef Rene Johnson

Tease photo

Turkey Leg Hut Food Trucks Expanding to Private Events as an Additional Option with Ongoing Pandemic

Houston’s famous Turkey Leg Hut (TLH) is seeing another success story emerge with the expansion of their food trucks for private parties and gatherings amid the ongoing pandemic.

People For the American Way Announces the Full-time Appointment of Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick As Executive Director of the People For Foundation

People For President and CEO Ben Jealous Praises Myrick’s Progressive Record As Mayor; Applauds Myrick’s Willingness To Focus Fulltime on Defending American Democracy

Today, People For the American Way President and CEO Ben Jealous announced the full-time appointment of Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick as Executive Director of People For and praised Myrick’s progressive record as Mayor. Myrick will transition from his duties as Mayor and part-time executive director of the People For Foundation next month, where his expanded duties will include fundraising, donor cultivation, media and public speaking roles, as well as continuing the important work he has already initiated to build strategic partnerships and advance People For’s public safety and democracy reform initiatives.

Monday, January 10

Tease photo

Local Business Owner Is Seeking Support After Losing Her Business During This Past Weekend's Tornado!

Martha E. Berry has been a force in the community by helping small businesses build their brands and their boutique since reaching success within the boutique industry. Her selfless efforts have reached people all over the world. After being laid off in 2016, and experiencing many obstacles, the then single mother began styling her church members in her living room to make extra money.

Katy Prairie Conservancy preserves nearly 965 acres of land for conservation projects

The Katy Prairie Conservancy (KPC) announces the preservation of nearly 965 acres of additional land for two important land conservation projects, increasing lands conserved by the land trust to 30,127 acres. The lands will be protected from any future commercial development.

People For: Biden ‘Must Deliver’ on Voting Rights in Atlanta

As President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris prepare to travel to Atlanta to call for federal voting rights protections, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

Methodist's New Threat to Nurses and Doctors

Houston Methodist Hospital is doubling down on its vaccine mandate ultimatums, now threatening to fire nurses and doctors who refuse to take a booster shot too.

Tease photo

Texas Customs And Border Protection officers seize $358K in methamphetamine at Los Indios Bridge

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Los Indios International Bridge seized $358,908 in methamphetamine on Jan. 3.

Tease photo

'Fresh Prince' reboot turns up the drama in its first trailer

Bel-Air's iconic Fresh Prince is getting a fresh new look, 30 years later.

Foundation behind network pushing election and coronavirus conspiracies had its tax-exempt status revoked. It still solicits donations

An online media network that promotes election and coronavirus-related conspiracy theories is soliciting donations and telling donors their contributions will be tax-deductible -- even though its foundation's tax-exempt status has been revoked by the IRS.

Tease photo

Farmington boy to miss hockey season to battle leukemia again

A young Farmington hockey player received a special sendoff Sunday morning as he faces off against a tough opponent.

Fishermen rescued after ice shelf separates from shore in Green Bay

Ice fishermen in Wisconsin had a rare kind of scare this weekend when a large ice shelf broke off and drifted out into the water.

Tease photo

Why Covid-19 tests are in short supply

The US has been on a troubling course in its fight to end the pandemic: Since the first cases of Covid-19 caused by the Omicron variant were identified in the US, case numbers have been on the rise, with hundreds of thousands of new patients diagnosed per day. Given the latest Covid spike, demand for testing is surging along with misperceptions of what it takes to perform a test, from collecting the sample to delivering a diagnosis.

Tease photo

'America's Dad' Bob Saget also loved dirty jokes. He mastered both

Danny Tanner was great, but Bob Saget loved working blue.

Taco Bell employee shot, killed by customer attempting to buy food with counterfeit money

A fast food employee was shot and killed in South Los Angeles on the job. The incident unfolded just before 11 p.m. Saturday night at the Taco Bell on Avalon and Century Boulevards, when an employee denied the suspect who attempted to purchase food at the drive-thru with counterfeit currency.

Harris County Judge Raises COVID-19 Threat Level to Level 1: Red

Just after 20 days of raising the threat level to orange, Harris County Judge Lina Hildago is prepared to raise it once more to red. Known as level 1, the red threat level encourages everyone to Stay Home and Play Safe.This is the highest level we have been since the pandemic.

Tease photo

Driver hospitalized in turnpike shooting: Troubling trend is an “epidemic’ says criminologist

The search is on for the gunman who opened fire on the Florida Turnpike over the weekend which sent one man to the hospital. The shooting is part of a troubling trend we have been seeing on South Florida roads.

Biden raises concerns with Ethiopia's Abiy over Tigray air strikes, urges ceasefire

US President Joe Biden spoke with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Monday, raising concerns over air strikes in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region and urging the leader of Africa's second most populous country to negotiate a ceasefire after 14 months of war.

Tease photo

Farewell, FAANGs: Big tech stocks sink and Dow falls 350 points

For some time, many investing experts have been predicting there will be a shift away from big tech towards value stocks. It might finally be happening.

Tease photo

Grand Theft Auto, meet FarmVille

Zynga, the mobile game developer known for hits like FarmVille, Words With Friends and a popular Texas Hold'em poker game, is pairing up with Take-Two Interactive, the developer of the Grand Theft Auto franchise of games.

Tease photo

2 snowshoers and their dog killed in avalanche in area of Hoosier Pass in Summit County

Two snowshoers and their dog were found dead after being buried and killed by an avalanche Saturday near North Star Mountain, northwest of Hoosier Pass, Colorado Avalanche Information Center confirmed Sunday night.

Tease photo

US coronavirus surge could peak later this month, expert says, but the next few weeks are critical

The current Covid-19 surge in the US, fueled by the Omicron variant, could peak later this month -- but the next couple of weeks are critical, a health expert says.

Robert Durst, convicted murderer and subject of HBO's 'The Jinx,' has died

Originally Published: 10 JAN 22 14:39 ET By Paul Vercammen and Faith Karimi, CNN (CNN) -- Robert Durst, the eccentric millionaire who fascinated viewers as the subject of HBO's documentary series "The Jinx" before being convicted last year of murder, has died in a California prison hospital, long-time attorney Dick DeGuerin tells CNN's Paul Vercammen. He was 78. This is a developing story and will be updated.

Tease photo

‘Very dangerous’: Colorado escapee Elias Buck on the run after allegedly shooting New Mexico officer

A manhunt is underway in the Four Corners area for a 22-year-old Durango resident who authorities believe shot and injured a Farmington, New Mexico, police officer during a traffic stop Friday night.

Sunday, January 9

Tease photo

Rockets Alperen Sengun out another week due to right ankle sprain

I missed the team. I missed playing basketball. I missed being on the court. I am sad; I’m upset because I cannot fight with the team on the court right now.

Friday, January 7

Tease photo

Sidney Poitier, Oscar-winning actor and Hollywood's first Black movie star, dies at 94

Sidney Poitier, whose elegant bearing and principled onscreen characters made him Hollywood's first Black movie star and the first Black man to win the best actor Oscar, has died. He was 94.

Tease photo

To sir, with love: Entertainers and activists pay tribute to Sidney Poitier

"Beautiful," "brilliant," "grace" and "elegance" are just a few of the words used by those who paid tribute Friday to the late Sidney Poitier, one of the greatest actors of the past century.

HISD hiring 500 students and alumni as elementary tutors to address learning loss

In response to the unique challenges presented by COVID-19, Houston Independent School District has partnered with iEducate to hire 500 HISD students and alumni for spring semester tutoring positions at elementary schools throughout HISD. HISD students ages 15 and up and alumni currently in college are invited for this paid opportunity – no experience required and all majors welcome!

Tips to Help You Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions

Katia Designs shares tips on how to improve your resolution success rate

Every time a new year rolls around, there are millions of people who make resolutions, or set new goals they want to meet. The problem with this is that within weeks, many of them have already given up on those goals. Coming up with a resolution is one thing, but ensuring that it plays out is completely another. The good news is that there are things that you can do to help improve your success rate and keep you focused on achieving those new goals.

Tease photo

NAMI Greater Houston to Spotlight Mental Illness and Honor Greater Houston Heroes

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Greater Houston, the region's oldest grassroots, mental health organization dedicated to serving those affected by mental illnesses will host its inaugural “Heroes and Hope Across Greater Houston” virtual gala on Friday, January 14, 2022, at 6:30 pm.

Tease photo

The Real On Real Estate with Your Unyielding REALtor - the Key to Getting the Keys

As we approach 2022, many of us are making those resolutions. One of the many resolutions is the goal of home ownership. As a woman of faith, my faith plays an integral part of all decisions that I make personally and professionally. Galatians 6:9 states, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Having the confidence in the promises of the God that are outlined in His word is a primary and foundational source in decision making.

Tease photo

Bringing Awareness to Food Insecurity and Homelessness Is One That Is of Great Importance

Despite Houston leading the nation with the least amount of homeless people we still see about 4,000 that are without permanent shelter on any given night based on a SEARCH homeless services report. Even though we have crossed the over into the new year, the giving season lasts all year long. There is always a reason to help and give back to the lives of others.

Tease photo

“Quit Playin”

In 2022 Frugal is all the Rage!

True story. When I was 30 years old, all I wanted to be was a six-figure “Nicca.” I know the N-word bothers you, but “Que es lo que es!” (It is what it is!) And that’s exactly what I wanted to be. But nowadays, $100,000 ain't enough to keep up with the "Joneses." Listen up if you're 20 to 39 and think you're a real “Henry” (high earner- not rich yet). Let me spit some real game. In 2022 you will have to get smarter. Frugalness is in vogue. It’s all the rage! “Don’t break a dollar to spend a dime” is what mama always quoted as a caveat of caution; think before you part with your hard-earned money.

Tease photo

The Station Museum of Contemporary Art Present Clark V> Fox: Subversion and Spectacle

The Station Museum of Contemporary Art is proud to present Clark V. Fox: Subversion and Spectacle, an expansive survey exhibition of the work of Native American artist Clark V. Fox, opening on Saturday, February 5, 2022, through June 26, 2022.

Tease photo

NNPA CEO to Interview Sophia the Robot at 2022 Tech With Soul Virtual Conference

Tech with Soul 2022 also promises to bring together the best and brightest in tech and to create a unique space for people of color technologists to exchange ideas, share their professional journeys, and network with like-minded business and tech professionals.

Opinion: What I Witnessed On January 6

On January 6, I woke up knowing it was going to be a difficult day, but I had no idea that it would take the harrowing turn that it did. In fact, I was actually somewhat optimistic when the day began. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, hours before, had won their US Sen- ate runoffs in Georgia, giving Democrats control of the Senate. Weeks earlier in November, in Texas and throughout the country, turnout in the 2020 presidential election had been historic -- with people of all backgrounds and political persuasions making their voices heard despite fearmongering and misinformation.

Tease photo

Houston native serves aboard USS Carl Vinson

Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) 2nd Class William Peek, left, from Olathe, Kan., and Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) 3rd Class Gervin Flores, from Houston, perform maintenance

The January 6 Riot and Donald Trump Loom Over Joe Biden's Presidency a Year Later

Two weeks before becoming president, Joe Biden watched the January 6 attack on television from his home in Delaware, horrified as the unspeakable images of the insurrection unfolded and aghast at the sitting President's unwillingness to condemn it.

Tease photo

It Is Time for Congress to Act to Defend Free Elections

Jan. 6, 2022 marks one year since the deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol, incited by a president voted out of office by the vast majority of the American people. What is now clear is that Donald Trump and his tong of zealous aides and complicitous right-wing legislators were deadly serious about overturning the results of that vote and keeping Trump in office. They failed but have since launched a systematic campaign in states across the country to make it possible to succeed the next time.

Tease photo

It’s Getting Nasty: How Sickness Is Spreading Across Houston

Today, a simple cough can clear a room. With the rise of positive COVID cases, Houston streets are getting nasty. People have become less concerned about wearing masks and social distancing. Many Houstonians have a false sense of security that the COVID vaccine is the ultimate protection against the coronavirus. Although the vaccine does provide protection against getting the virus, it does not mean a vaccinated individual can’t get COVID. The vaccine can lessen the severity of symptoms. People must continue practicing safety precautions, especially in a population where there are so many unvaccinated individuals.

Thursday, January 6

Tease photo

Taco Bell is selling a $10 monthly taco subscription

Taco Bell is rolling out what's arguably the tastiest subscription service yet: daily tacos.

Tease photo

Fourteen recommended reads about January 6 and 'what will likely come next'

I spent the morning of January 6, 2021 on the phone with one of my sources at Fox -- a true conservative who hated what Donald Trump had done to the channel and the Republican party. We lamented Fox's support for Trump's election lie and why so many people wanted to believe a fairytale. We wondered if Trump would fade into the background now that he had lost to Joe Biden. So much for that.

Republicans wasted no time dragging Big Tech into the culture wars in 2022

Almost exactly one year after the Capitol insurrection that led to former President Donald Trump being suspended from Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, Big Tech was again in the political crosshairs this week for cracking down on an account from another Republican.

The single most important -- and powerful -- line from Joe Biden's 1/6 speech

"You can't love your country only when you win." That's President Joe Biden during a speech he gave Thursday morning to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the US Capitol riot. It's not only a memorable line -- it's likely to be the one that gets repeated the most today and in the days to come -- but also a hugely important one if we hope to fully come to grips with what happened last January 6 and everything that lead to that moment.

READ: Vice President Kamala Harris' remarks on January 6 anniversary

Vice President Kamala Harris spoke from the US Capitol on the one-year anniversary of the January 6 insurrection, where she said that on that day, "we all saw what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful. The lawlessness, the violence, the chaos." Read her remarks as released below:

Tease photo

'She's a perfect miracle': Michelle Kwan announces birth of her first child

Former Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan has said she is "overjoyed" after welcoming her first child.

These 37 Bed Bath & Beyond store are closing

Bed Bath & Beyond revealed the locations of 37 of the approximately 200 stores it plans close by the end of this year.

Tease photo

Couple celebrates anniversary waiting for Whataburger to open

A Hermitage couple celebrated their anniversary at the opening of Middle Tennessee’s first Whataburger restaurant.

Brittany Daniel had a baby using her twin sister's donor egg

Identical twins and "Sweet Valley High" stars Brittany and Cynthia Daniel have always been close, and are now sharing a story of true sisterhood.

What January 6 revealed about the attack on multiracial democracy

A version of this story appeared in CNN's Race Deconstructed newsletter. To get it in your inbox every week, sign up for free here.

Tease photo

The January 6 riot and Donald Trump loom over Joe Biden's presidency a year later

Two weeks before becoming president, Joe Biden watched the January 6 attack on television from his home in Delaware, horrified as the unspeakable images of the insurrection unfolded and aghast at the sitting President's unwillingness to condemn it.

Tease photo

National and local authorities offer $15,000 for the capture of a man wanted for murder of Memphis musician

National and local authorities are offering $15,000 Wednesday for a man who is wanted for the murder of rapper ‘Young Dolph’.

One of Coke's most-popular sodas is becoming a boozy beverage

Coca-Cola is tapping into the canned cocktail craze with a boozy version of its Fresca soda.

One reporter's 21 hour nightmare inside the US Capitol on January 6, 2021

January 6, 2021 started like lots of days on Capitol Hill for CNN reporter Daniella Diaz. She was braced for a very long day as Congress was set to formalize Joe Biden's Electoral College victory. What transpired over the next 21 hours -- rioters storming the US Capitol in an attempted coup -- was history in the making. On the anniversary of that fateful day, I reached out to Daniella to talk about her recollections -- and what memories have stayed with her. Our conversation -- conducted via email and lightly edited for flow -- is below.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Coming out of Covid-19 isolation doesn't have to be complicated

With more than a half-million Americans being officially diagnosed with Covid-19 every day, the need for clear guidance on isolation and quarantine is critically important. Sadly, the guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is continuously changing, confusing and at times contradictory.

Quit your job? Here's what to do with your 401(k)

Millions of people have decided to quit their jobs. If you're one of them, you'll have a lot to wrap up before your last day of work.

Wednesday, January 5

Chisa Hutchinson’s Amerikin to be Directed by Resident Acting Company Emeritus James Black

World Premiere Drama Finally Premieres at the Alley Theatre

The Tony Award®-winning Alley Theatre announces the cast and creative team of Chisa Hutchinson’s world premiere drama Amerikin. The play is directed by former Resident Acting Company Emeritus member James Black and runs February 11 – March 13, 2022 in the Neuhaus Theatre. Developed as part of the 2019 Alley All New Festival, the play was scheduled in both the 2019-20 and 2020-21 in-person seasons but cancelled due to COVID-19. Amerikin now makes its world premiere this season.

Tease photo

GM at CES 2022: Experience The Ultium Effect, Chevrolet Introduces 2024 Silverado EV

In a virtual keynote today at CES 2022, General Motors Chair and CEO Mary Barra outlined the waves of change that are coming as society moves toward the mass adoption of electric vehicles. GM, a company transitioning from automaker to platform innovator, provided a view of EV technology's inflection point at CES one year ago.

Regional Planning Group Approves Future Goals to Protect Groundwater

GMA 14 Approves 2021 Desired Future Conditions

The Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District (LSGCD) announced today that the greater Groundwater Management Area 14 (GMA 14) has approved proposed desired future conditions (DFCs), setting groundwater management goals through 2080. The approved DFCs balance the desire to preserve Montgomery County's groundwater supply for future generations and protect property rights.

Tease photo

First of former NFL players charged in medical reimbursement scam pleads guilty

Shantee Orr, one of eight former NFL players who, along with an athletic trainer, are charged with taking part in a $632,000 scheme to defraud an NFL player trust fund by submitting false claims for medical benefits, has pleaded guilty, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced Wednesday.

Tease photo

Prepare for Winter Weather

Winter storms can bring snow, sleet, ice, freezing rain and high winds across our region. Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion.

Two more major financial companies urge workers to stay at home

American Express and BlackRock are the latest major companies to urge employees to start 2022 by working remotely as Covid-19 cases skyrocket.

Tease photo

The 'Queens' Release New Music Video "Lady Z Strikes Back (Can't Stop You)" Featuring New Cast Member Remy Ma

The new ABC series starring Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez, and Brandy as four ’90s hip-hop legends, now in their 40s, who reunite for a chance to recapture their fame. The 'Queens' release their new video "Lady Z Strikes Back (Can't Stop You)" featuring new cast member Remy Ma. Remy Ma will have a recurring role on the show.

Tuesday, January 4

Tease photo

Prairie View A&M Hires Bubba McDowell As Their New Head Coach

On Tuesday, Prairie View A&M University announced they had hired Leonard “Bubba” McDowell as its new head football coach.

Thanks to His New Lungs, a Pennsylvania Pharmacist is Back in the Pharmacy and Able to Celebrate National Pharmacists Day 2022

Each year, January 12th is designated as National Pharmacists Day. Transplant families throughout the nation rely on the expertise and guidance of their trusted pharmacists. One pharmacist in Pennsylvania is an incredible resource to transplant families now that he is on the other side of his life-saving double lung transplant.

Tease photo

Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Deliver GM’s 2nd Consecutive Year of Full-Size Pickup Sales Leadership in 2021

General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) and its dealers delivered 2.2 million vehicles in 2021, with Chevrolet and GMC cementing the company’s eighth consecutive year of combined full-size and midsize pickup sales leadership, second consecutive year as the full-size pickup sales leader and its 21st consecutive year as the market leader in full-size SUVs.

Tease photo

Children's Book Author Releases -- A Brown Girl Like Me: A Historical Journey Through HERStory

Educator and Author La Tanya Brooks’s inroduces A Brown Girl Like Me: A Journey Through HERstory. In this book, little Aubri Payton travels back in time and meets a beautiful fairy guide who whisks her off into a wondrous journey through time. The book presents history and victories in short, poetic, and fun lines that paint a picture of courage, audacity, and girl power.

Tease photo

Guy Burrows, M.D., Board-Certified Neurologist and Peripheral Nerve Specialist, Unveils Clinical Center Dedicated to Neuromuscular and Autoimmune Disorders

Burrows Muscle and Nerve Center Offers Thorough Evaluations, Personalized, Compassionate Clinical Care and Infused Biologic Therapies

Guy Burrows, M.D., a leading Houston-based, board-certified neurologist, announced the opening of a clinical center solely dedicated to treating those with peripheral nerve conditions and neuromuscular disorders.

Tease photo

Get Fit Thursdays at Urban South - HTX

Challenge and reward yourself at Urban South - HTX this new year! Every Thursday, the Sawyer Yards brewery is hosting a free run club and yoga event. Guests can work up a sweat and then celebrate with a cold beer of their choice.

The Heritage Society Starts the New Year with An Evening of Heritage on January 9

Special guest speakers include Susan Garrett Baker & Secretary James A. Baker and Jim McGrath

Houston, December 17: On Sunday, January 9, join “A Conversation with James A. Baker III & Susan Garrett Baker with Jim McGrath” at The Heritage Society’s “An Evening of Heritage” event. This grand event starts at 3 p.m. and will be followed by a Sunday supper and music by Jerry Atwood.

Raising Cane’s is Getting Ready to Ring in the New Year at Its Newest Houston Location

Fastest-growing chicken finger concept to celebrate opening on Jan. 7 and commitment to Make-A-Wish

Raising Cane’s is kicking off 2022 by bringing more of its ONE LOVE® – quality chicken finger meals – to the greater Houston area!

Texas’ Covid Crisis Grows More Dire, Texas Now Leads the Nation in Child COVID-19 Hospitalizations

Where’s Governor Abbott?

The Covid-19 crisis in Texas continues to grow more and more dire, with no signs of leadership or action shown by Governor Greg Abbott to stop it.

Young Shreveport rapper using platform to bring attention to senseless violence

An 11-year-old is using his rap skills to speak out about the violence overtaking over Shreveport. Ray Da Yungin is using his growing platform to reach the masses. The rapper is using music to show other young people the impact of violence. He calls himself a kid influencer and he's determined to use his voice for good. He says the violence here in Shreveport is just hitting too close to home and after losing two friends tragically he put all his hurt into his music.

Tease photo

NYC Mayor Eric Adams to big banks: We need you back in the office

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is not pleased with the shift back to remote work by Wall Street banks and other major employers in the Big Apple.

Texas Border Protection Officers find undeclared, endangered ‘new world’ spider monkeys

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and agriculture specialists at the Progreso International Bridge made “an unusual discovery” this past week when they found four undeclared spider monkeys concealed inside a duffle bag.

Tease photo

Tristan Thompson apologizes to Khloé Kardashian after fathering another child

Tristan Thompson has revealed he is the father of a newborn son and has apologized to Khloé Kardashian. The Sacramento Kings basketball player posted a note on his Instagram stories Monday stating that a paternity test has proven he fathered a child in December with fitness model Maralee Nichols.

Tease photo

Marvel's 'Morbius' release date pushed by Sony again

"Morbius," starring Jared Leto, has been pushed back by Sony from Jan. 28 to April 1, the studio announced. Leto plays Michael Morbius, a scientist who attempts to cure his rare blood disease by using bat DNA, but instead turns into a vampire.

Tease photo

French TV star Igor Bogdanoff dies of Covid, days after twin brother

French TV star Igor Bogdanoff has died of Covid-19, six days after his twin brother Grichka died due to the same disease, the brothers' lawyer confirmed to CNN Tuesday.

Tease photo

Biden will make 'brief remarks' Tuesday on rapid spread of the Omicron variant

President Joe Biden on Tuesday will make brief remarks addressing the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus in the US and the steps his administration is taking to address it, according to the White House.

Tease photo

Hackers breached Florida health care system, potentially exposing data on 1.3 million people

Hackers breached the computer networks of a southeast Florida health care system in October and may have accessed sensitive personal and financial information on over 1.3 million people, the health care system announced this week.

Tease photo

Illinois lawmaker Bobby Rush's retirement marks 2 dozen Democrats leaving the House

Rep. Bobby Rush of Illinois told the Chicago Sun-Times in an interview published Monday that he won't run for a 16th term in the US House of Representatives, the 24th House Democrat to announce plans of leaving the chamber at the end the term.

Tease photo

Here's what a subpoena is -- and what happens if you ignore one

Subpoenas have been at the center of some of the highest profile inquiries in Washington and beyond -- including the House select committee investigating the January 6 riot and the New York attorney general's office's efforts to compel testimony from members of the Trump family.

Tease photo

Melania Trump to auction white hat and other items for $250,000 minimum bid

Melania Trump announced Tuesday morning that she is holding an auction of the white hat she wore during the visit of the French first family, the Macrons, to the White House in 2018.

Tease photo

Biden set to meet with Covid-19 team and deliver remarks

President Joe Biden will receive a briefing from his Covid-19 response team and deliver remarks on the Omicron variant Tuesday afternoon, as the US reached more than 100,000 hospitalizations due to to the illness for the first time in four months.

Tease photo

Albany DA declines to prosecute former Gov. Andrew Cuomo on forcible touching charge

The Albany district attorney will not prosecute former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on a misdemeanor sex crime charge of forcible touching after reviewing the evidence in the case despite finding the complainant "cooperative" and "credible."

Biden's infrastructure czar urges governors to appoint their own infrastructure implementation coordinators

President Joe Biden's infrastructure czar Mitch Landrieu sent letters to all the nation's governors on Tuesday urging them to appoint their own infrastructure implementation coordinators to smooth the rollout of the $1.2 trillion law.

Tease photo

Update to CDC's Covid-19 isolation guidance is imminent, source says

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expected to update its guidance on the recommended isolation period imminently, according to a source familiar with the plan.

Monday, January 3

The best new hotels to book in 2022

Though 2021 was not exactly the year of jet-setting travel that we'd hoped for, we have our fingers crossed for 2022.

Tease photo

Titans’ Dupree wanted for questioning after altercation inside Walgreen’s

Metro Police are investigating a physical altercation at the Walgreen’s on Rosa Parks Boulevard that may have involved a Tennessee Titans player.

Tease photo

Elizabeth Holmes Trial: Jury says it is deadlocked on three counts

The jury tasked with determining the fate of Elizabeth Holmes, the former CEO and founder of failed blood testing startup Theranos in her criminal trial, said that it is unable to come to a unanimous verdict on three of the eleven counts.

Tease photo

White House investing $1 billion to boost competition in meat-processing industry and lower consumer prices

The White House on Monday announced it would allocate $1 billion in funding from the American Rescue Plan to independent meat and poultry producers as part of an effort to boost competition in the meat-processing industry and lower prices for consumers.

Tease photo

GM was America's largest automaker for nearly a century. It's about to be dethroned by Toyota

Toyota is about to become the leader in US auto sales for the first time, taking away a title that General Motors has held for nearly a century.

Prince Andrew accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre's 2009 settlement with Jeffrey Epstein released

A 2009 settlement agreement between sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Virginia Roberts Giuffre -- the woman who accused him of sexual abuse and of trafficking her to Prince Andrew and other men -- was unsealed Monday.

Tease photo

Union vote could trigger 'electronic lockout' of Chicago teachers amid dispute over rising Covid-19 cases

The Chicago Teachers Union is planning to convene an emergency meeting to vote on whether its teachers should move to virtual teaching amid a surge in Covid-19 cases, according to a union official, setting up a potential "electronic lockout" by the school district.

This woman could topple the French President

As France gears up for a presidential campaign amid a savage fifth coronavirus wave sweeping the country, for the first time in the nation's history, female candidates occupy three of the principal axes of the political spectrum and may hold the key to the nation's future.

Don't worry, Snoop Dogg; Ben Affleck says people have messed up his last name in worse ways

Ben Affleck has no hard feelings toward Snoop Dogg. The actor on Monday appeared on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" and opened up about the rapper's accidental mispronunciation of his name while announcing the Golden Globe nominations last month.

Boosters could make all the difference against Omicron

The Omicron coronavirus variant is now spreading at warp speed. It has become the dominant coronavirus strain, accounting for 59% of all new cases as of Christmas Day, according to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tease photo

Apple has become the world's first $3 trillion company

Apple has reached yet another major milestone. The iPhone maker topped a market value of $3 trillion Monday — the first publicly traded company ever to be worth that much.

Tease photo

Wall Street is getting greedy again

The calendar has flipped to 2022 but investors are still partying like it's 2021. Stocks remained near record levels Monday, the first trading day of the year, and investors are ramping up the greed.

Tease photo

A Covid-19 survivor came out of a coma after 65 days. Now she supports vaccinations

After spending two months in a coma due to Covid-19 earlier this year, a California woman is urging people to get vaccinated.

Tease photo

Whoopi Goldberg tests positive for Covid-19

Whoopi Goldberg has tested positive for Covid-19, "The View" co-host Joy Behar announced on Monday's episode of the talk show.

Tease photo

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene says Facebook blocked her account for 24 hours

Facebook has blocked Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene from posting on its platform for 24 hours, the Georgia Republican said Monday.

2021: The year of space tourism

When future generations write about the history of space travel, 2021 may well get its own chapter. "The year of the billionaires," it might be called.

'We're staying open': Adams bucks teacher's union request days into new administration

Eric Adams has started his tenure as New York City mayor by rejecting a request from the city's largest teachers' union to temporarily move public schools to remote learning, capping off a frenetic first 72 hours of his administration.

Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce Announces Job Fair & Business Expo Followed by Black-Tie Awards Dinner Dear Media Colleagues and Friends,

Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce Announces Job Fair & Business Expo Followed by Black-Tie Awards Dinner Dear Media Colleagues and Friends,

Access Consciousness Celebrates the 9th Annual Global Access Bars® Day on January 15th

One of the largest personal development companies to offer complimentary stress relief sessions plus 10 hours of free inspirational livestream content on January 15th

Access Consciousness® is inviting members of the community to experience one of the fastest growing forms of self-care on January 15th for its 9th Annual Global Access Bars Day, a day for people to discover new possibilities for growth and happiness as they embark on a new year.

Tease photo

East End Houston Adds More Than 400 Trees to the Neighborhood

Dozens of Volunteers Joined the Effort to a Greener 2022

The East End Houston community is greener thanks to a massive effort led by the East End District to plant more than 400 trees in the historic neighborhood. Crews of volunteers were mobilized to three sites in the East End area during December, completing the task in less than 24 hours.

The Spot EaDo Launches Weekly Live Music Events and New Happy Hour This Thursday

The Spot EaDo, the trendy new franchise from the owners of the Third Ward staple The Spot Lounge and Bar, is launching a new weekly live music series and Happy Hour on Thursdays called “Houston Live at The Spot EaDo” beginning January 6, 2022!

Tease photo

Elevating & Dance Infused - To The Sky - Jamecia Bennett ft. Sounds of Blackness

Jamecia Bennett 'To The Sky' ft. Sounds of Blackness is an elevating dance- infused new single and music video on Rock the Cause Records.

Tease photo

Tech's biggest event starts this week. Here's what to expect

CES, typically one of the year's biggest tech trade shows, is moving forward with plans to host an in-person component this week despite looming threats of the Omicron Covid-19 variant.

Ariana Grande's improvised lyrics in 'Don't Look Up' are perfect for 2022

Ariana Grande improvised part of her singing performance in "Don't Look Up," director Adam McKay reveals.

Nicolas Cage doesn't want to be called an 'actor'

Nicolas Cage knows it may sound "pretentious," but he would prefer you refer to him as a "thespian."

Tease photo

Ryan Reynolds responds to Betty White saying he can't get over her

Betty White said Ryan Reynolds just couldn't quit her. The two starred in the 2009 movie "The Proposal," and ever since Reynolds had been publicly calling White his "ex-girlfriend."

Tease photo

Screening event for Betty White's 100th birthday will go on

Betty White was weeks away from her 100th birthday and planned a big celebration.

Tease photo

Ryan Reynolds and more pay tribute to Betty White

Betty White is being remembered for her light, humor, charm and friendship. Ryan Reynolds posted a loving tribute to longtime friend and "The Proposal" costar, who died Friday at the age of 99.

Tease photo

Betty White's best 'Golden Girls' lines and moments

Betty White wasn't supposed to play Rose Nylund on "The Golden Girls," but we are so grateful that she did.

Tease photo

Kodak Black arrested for trespassing on New Year's Day

Kodak Black was arrested Saturday in Pompano Beach, Florida, on a misdemeanor trespassing charge, according to Broward County Court records.

'Crikey! It's the Irwins' Season 4 is the Irwin family's gift to us

Terri Irwin and her children Robert and Bindi are grateful to America. That's because Americans have been so supportive of their conservation work through both the Australian wildfires and the more recent global pandemic.

'Around the World in Eighty Days' takes the Jules Verne classic in a different direction

What seems like a not-necessary idea actually turns into a pretty good one with "Around the World in Eighty Days," adapting Jules Verne's novel into an eight-episode Masterpiece series, one already renewed for another voyage. David Tennant plays the unlikely adventurer Phileas Fogg, in a slick retelling that significantly updates and expands the story.

Tease photo

Joe Gatto is leaving 'Impractical Jokers' for personal reasons

Comedian Joe Gatto has announced that he will be leaving the popular television series "Impractical Jokers" after nine seasons to focus on fatherhood.

Alec Baldwin addresses 'Rust' tragedy in New Year's video

In a video looking ahead to 2022, Alec Baldwin reflected on the fatal shooting on the set of his film "Rust."

Betty White's agent on how much fans loved her: 'She knew it'

Betty White left this world after having had a life well lived and well loved. Her agent and longtime friend, Jeff Witjas, told People magazine that White, who died New Year's Eve at the age of 99, was aware of how much she was beloved.

Janet Jackson's documentary: The revelations we can't wait for

The trailer for Janet Jackson's forthcoming two-night documentary is "All For You."

Tease photo

Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation Launches $2M Grant to HBCU Scholarship Program

The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation announced a $2 million commitment to support scholarships for Black, African and African American students, including those at Morehouse College, Spelman College and 10 additional historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) through the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

Patton Oswalt defends his longtime friendship with Dave Chappelle

Patton Oswalt shared a heartfelt letter on social media explaining his longtime friendship with fellow comic Dave Chappelle as controversy over Chappelle's jokes about trans people in his last Netflix special has continued.

Ukraine's culture minister slams 'Emily in Paris' for 'offensive' Ukrainian character

Ukraine's minister of culture has been watching Netflix series "Emily in Paris" -- and he's not happy.

Singer Omarion says he's definitely not a variant

Ever since the latest variant of Covid-19, Omicron, has gained ground in the US, jokes calling it the "Omarion" variant, after the R&B singer, have been rampant.

Sunday, January 2

Tease photo

Introducing Actress, Host, Acting Coach, Performer and Director Reece Odum

It is a new year and we are excited to see new faces on our tv screens. Award winning Actress/Producer, Reece Odum, is a rising star and a fresh face to the television and film industry. In a short time her career is one to be reckoned with, as she has worked along side some of the heavy hitters in the industry.

Saturday, January 1

Tease photo

Rockets Jae'Sean Tate makes impressive return against the Heat

Rockets Forward Jae’Sean Tate made sure to return the love he was receiving as he waived to the crowd before being handed a basketball to begin his drills. It was the first time that Tate had been seen in a Rockets uniform in over eight days, having played his last game on December 23 against the Indiana Pacers.