H-E-B On Being the Change Against Racial Injustices
As a company, H-E-B stands on the belief that each and every person counts. Wouldn’t that be beautiful if it were true? Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. preached about it. Congresswoman Shirley Chisom lobbied for it. Congressman John Lewis fought for it. President Barack Obama believed in it. Vice President Kamala Harris broke barriers for it. Over the years we have constantly chipped away at America’s problem with systemic racism. Yet, instill, the problem persists. If we take what divides us to unit us, together we could bring about real change. We could be the change we want to see.
The Legendary Cicely Tyson
"We have to honor this blessed gift that we have. That's what keeps you going. Keeps your mind fluid -- your heart, your whole being," said the Hollywood legend Cicely Tyson five year ago in a Time magazine story. "You can't just stop, because that will be the end of you."
President Joe Biden Takes Executive Action On Day One – With The Stroke Of His Pen
Every president has their own agenda with their pressing issues in rank order. Each one comes to the office ready to get to work immediately but they do take time to enjoy the spoils of their inauguration participating in parades, attending countless balls, and taking in every unbelievable moment as it sinks in that they are the leader of the free world. However, Joe Biden didn’t have that luxury. He had the misfortune to have to fix everything that Donald Trump destroyed immediately while also executing his own agenda to make America better. Never before has a president come into office with so many problems and so much pressure to do what is right in government and what is right by the citizens of the country. Good thing is this is something Biden knew when he declared his candidacy and its something that he has prepared for taking executive action on his first day in office.
Joe Biden’s Inaugural “We Are One” Event Celebrates The Resilience Of Black Culture And Heroism
There are at least three times in the Holy Bible where it speaks to a divide house – Matthew 12:25, Mark 3:25, and Luke 11:17. If a house is not equal, it is not stable or solid. At the first sign of trouble, the house will crack. It cannot weather any storm. This is why a house must be unified. There is strength in numbers and most definitely strength in stability. This is the America President Joe Biden is trying to restore.
What Would ‘King’ Do In A Global COVID-19 Pandemic?
“This is our country; this is our house,” one riot- er told a reporter while storming the US Capitol last week in support of President Donald Trump. its shingle covering.”
Houston Pastor Caldwell Sentenced for 6 Years for Wire Fraud
Church people trust their faith and they trust their faith leader. A Houston area pastor, Kirbyjon Caldwell, has abused that trust and now it has landed him behind bars. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Caldwell to serve 72 months and 1 year of supervised release. In addition, Caldwell had to pay restitution to the tune of $3,588,500 and a fine of $125,000.
H-E-B Named Grocery Store Of Year 2020
Regional Grocery Takes Top Spot For Its’ COVID-19 Response
When it comes to grocery stores, Texans can agree that H-E-B is the best. Yes, they have a wide variety of food and other things. Yes, they make meal prep easy for cooks and non-cooks with their ready-made meals and cooking demos. But what keeps people coming back time and time again to shop at H-E-B is the way they treat customers and how that care follows to help communities.
Chaos at the Capitol
Wednesday, January 6, 2021, will go down as one of the darkest days in American History. A sitting U.S. President incited people for months with lies about how the election was stole from him and was unfair igniting the angry in people to the point that they became craze. That craze became insanity. And they did the unthinkable with the permission of these words:
What to Watch in 2021
Leave all the events of 2020 in 2020. Don’t look back. Just look forward and push toward to the future of 2021. This is the year where we all will transform in one way or another. Our world will also change with us. This is why we must keep our eyes on the ones leading change. Take a look at a few things and people to keep a lookout for in 2021.
#CAP Dow Promise Virtual Summit Gives Students a Head Start On College Admissions
Dow knows how to keeps its promises. In 2000, they took their original promise and expanded it to make a broaden stance of their support to the community with an initiative called The Dow Promise Program. The annual competitive grant program allows organizations to obtain a grant up to $10,000 for use for a sustainable project with longevity in the community. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter was a proud recipient of a $5,000 grant that they used to host the #CAP Dow Promise Virtual Summit.
Kwanzaa: A Celebration to Bring Families Together
The year that will forever be etched in the history of Los Angeles, California is 1965 when a normal traffic stop took an unexpected turn. In the wake of the unforeseen circumstances violence would loom over the city for six days leaving 34 dead and over $40 million in damages. How could any positive be birth from such a tragedy? But it did. This is the story of how Kwanzaa came to be.
New Study Indicates COVID-19 Rates 4x Higher Than Reported in Houston
COVID-19 cases seem to be four times higher than reported according to a new study from the Houston Health Department. Through a partnership with Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University, volunteers’ blood from Houston area households was subject to random viral testing for COVID-19 antibodies.
Prairie View A&M University Receives the Largest Donation in Its 144-Year History
Prairie View A&M University will be able to produce a lot more productive people thanks to a $50 million donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
Sandra Lindsay, First Person in U.S. to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine
When Sandra Lindsay volunteered to be vaccinated for COVID-19 she had one goal in mind – to lead by example. Lindsay, Director of Critical Nursing at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, had heard all the skepticism of others leery about taking the vaccine. She also was well aware of the history of unjust, racist treatment of African Americans with medical experimentation.
Three Charged with Election Fraud for the 2020 Democratic Primary
Election news is making headlines once again but this time the news is not coming from Washington but from right in our own backyard.
Lloyd Austin’s Historic Nomination Adds To President-Elect Joe Biden’s Diverse Cabinet
Keeping true to his word of creating a cabinet that is reflective of America, President-elect Joe Biden has named retired Army general Lloyd Austin as his nominee as the Secretary of Defense. Lloyd’s confirmation would break barriers as he would be the first Black Secretary of Defense.
City of Houston and Comcast Launches Internet Voucher Program and Lift Zones With U.S. CARES ACT Funding
Having Internet access has always been critical in the areas of education, business, and every aspect of life. The pandemic has created an even bigger need for connectivity and pointed out the many who were left behind due to a lack of services. Numerous programs exist to try to alleviate this problem. However, there are still some who have been overlooked. Houston Mayor Turner has a “not in my city stance” and has once again collaborated with Comcast to give families their must needed lifeline to get and stay connected.
Pope Francis Suggests Building Bonds of Reciprocity for Solidarity
A common phrase that I have heard since the pandemic started is the need for something better to be birth from it. Whether that is a new skill, career opportunity, cleaner environment, the desired outcome was always to be better or something to be made better. Pope Francis wrote an op-ed for the New York Times with this same air of the world and its residents being better coming out of this pandemic. His thoughts were that people would be better by being more connected to each other on a personal level and being less selfish to be more empathic to one’s pain. This could make kinder people and a kinder, more understanding world.
Houston ISD Board Blocks Lathan From Top Spot
No surprises were made by the way the Houston ISD School Board voted 6-3 to decline interim superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan the permanent job to run the largest district in Texas.
Kamala Harris: Visualizing a Future Never Once Imagined
Barriers are meant to block someone or something from occurring. Just as they are meant to deter, barriers also can serve as motivation for someone to do what has never be done before. For years women have encounter roadblocks in the climb up the political ladder. Despite what was in their way they kept pressing forward, pushing the mark, never losing their focus. Never underestimate a woman who has ever been doubted. She will just smile in your face and say ‘Watch me work.’
Chris Hollins: Defender of the Right to Vote
Proper preparation warrants productive possibilities. When Chris Hollins assumed the office of Harris County Clerk, after a 3-2 party vote of the Harris County Commissioners Court, he had three priorities in mind. His goal was to ensure that every resident of Harris County, regardless of party, race, creed, religion, or area of town in which they live, could vote in a safe, peaceful and convenient manner. Having shattered all previous Harris County voting turnout records, Hollins has blown even his own mind with Election 2020.
How Young and Black Voters Can Flip Election 2020
Voting has always been the greatest power any American can ever hold. Unfortunately, it is also one of the greatest power that is least used, especially by Black and young voters.
Why the GOP Wants to Steal Your Vote?
Trick or treat is the time old tradition where children put on costumes and knock on doors in hopes of getting a treat of candy and not a trick. For the last four years, Americans have been in a sort of a game of Halloween minus the costumes. Donald Trump has been supplying all the tricks of lies, policy changes, and false claims but no treats!
Be Fearless and Fierce in the Face of Breast Cancer
Angela Wright shares her story as a breast cancer survivor
We all know that life can throw some twists and turns then there are a few times life throws a curve that almost takes our breath away.
Don’t Be Discouraged – Vote
For months now we have heard how this would not be an ordinary election. Beyond the candidates and the issues, the hot topic has been how we would vote and be safe at the same time. All across the nation, there have been court hearings, lawsuits, protests, and marches with people interpreting laws to favor their side to either take away or add more voting restrictions all to discourage minorities from voting.
What to Expect at the Polls
With predictions of this election having extremely high voter turnout Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins and his office are making sure everything is in order before election day. The goal is to make sure that every voter can have the accessibility, safety, and convenience to vote their way.
All of Trump Men: Positive for COVID-19
“Don’t be afraid of COVID. Don’t let it dominate your life,” said President Donald Truth as he left Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. After contracting COVID and having had a 72-hour hospital stay this is what he had to say. Not the slightness bit of humbleness or gratefulness was in his words.
Are You Registered to Vote?
My vote won’t count. I missed the deadline. The process is too hard. What are these statements? Excuses used by Americans as reasons why they don’t vote. And there are more than that with regards to black and brown people faced with lack of transportation, voter IDs laws, distrust of the system, and a lack of education of the process. However, I am of the belief that for every excuse there is a solution to resolve it. Stop thinking you won’t be heard.
Are You Registered to Vote?
My vote won’t count. I missed the deadline. The process is too hard. What are these statements? Excuses used by Americans as reasons why they don’t vote. And there are more than that with regards to black and brown people faced with lack of transportation, voter IDs laws, distrust of the system, and a lack of education of the process. However, I am of the belief that for every excuse there is a solution to resolve it.
Notorious RBG: Protector of the Right to Be Treated Equally
Hours after learning of the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg President Donald Trump said, “She led an amazing life. What else can you say?" There is a lot more that can be said because of the long-standing legacy she forged as a warrior for justice.
Latinos Power Up to Vote
The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that in the next six months Latinos will no longer be the minority but the majority. A static that excites the members of Jolt, the largest Latino progressive organization in Texas, since with greater numbers comes greater power. However, legislators are not utilizing Latinos' political power. Latinos across the country are expected to support different agendas, show up at the ballot box, and check this and that box but no one is really listening to what they want. No one is taking the time to invest in the community but expects the community to invest in them. Antonio Arellano, Interim Executive Director of Jolt, thinks it is time out for that. If any political party wants to capture Latinos they must first invite them to the party.
Protecting the Safety and Rights of Voters
A safe, secure, efficient, accessible, and fair voting process for every registered voter has always been the goal of Chris Hollins since he was appointed as Harris County Clerk. His office is committed to inclusivity because he believes the “right to vote is fundamental to what it means to be free and have a voice in our democracy.” With that in mind, Hollins has proposed mailing applications to vote by mail to all registered voters that are 65 years old and up regardless if they requested the application or not. Republicans have a big problem with that and have filed two lawsuits to put a stop to it.
Vote: It Is Up to All of Us
These are critical times in which we find ourselves. Besides living during this global pandemic, race relations are boiling over, immigrations issues continue to rip families apart, healthcare is not available for all, and issue after issue keeps mounting with more frustrations and less of viable solutions. America is in deep turmoil.
Why We Still Love Michelle Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama grabbed us by the heart the minute she stepped on to the national stage. She became a role model for little girls and grown women too. Her presence just commands a certain type of respect when she enters any room. Her words gripped you right from the start and don’t let go until she is finished speaking. Her style is impeccable. Add on her love for Barack Obama and she has the full package. Here are just a few reasons we are still in love with Michelle Obama.
Harris County Commissioners Earmark $32 Million to Give Students Digital Access for New School Year
Having a good education can set an individual up to handle all kinds of opportunities in life. Access to this type of education is not always readily available to all students for a variety of reasons. Obstacles are unique for each generation. For students of today, the biggest problem is the lack of Internet access and/or digital devices.
America’s Problem: Protecting Students in Schools
School administrators across the nation are grappling with questions about one of the toughest decisions they have had to make in their educational careers, “How can they safety educate students amid a global pandemic?” Beyond student safety, they also have to consider the safety of faculty and staff.
Joya T. Hayes Takes Office As South Central Regional Director for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has always been an organization that of times of crisis, the members respond by stepping up, serving, and continuing the business at hand. The global pandemic of COVID-19 might have delayed their efforts but did not stop them. Treading in uncharted waters, the sorority used its virtual platforms to hold the first virtual election where Joya T. Hayes was declared the South Central Regional Director and installed into office at the 69th international convention of the 112-year-old organization. Hayes now leads 10,000+ members in more than 120 undergraduate and graduate chapters in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas in the second largest region of the sorority.
Evictions: Millions of Families in Financial Turmoil
The COVID-19 global pandemic is scary enough with just trying to stay healthy. Adding stress to that problem for many Americans is the lost of income as a result of layoffs and furloughs since many businesses had to close their doors. Lack of money on an already low-income family is compounded stress making the first of the month one of the scariest days ever.
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum Building Vandalized
The Buffalo Soldiers seeking answers in the wake of the defacing of the building that houses the national museum.
The Life and Legacy of Earl Lewis Thomas
BOOM! Earl Lewis Thomas was a force that no one wanted to challenge on the football field. The NFL defensive man was one of six that encompass the Seattle Seahawks’ Legion of Boom that put the team in the history books for their six consecutive seasons. The NFL, family, and friends are mourning the powerful wide receiver as Thomas passed away in Houston at the age of 71 succumbing to COVID-19 virus.
Will Texas Shut Down Again?
Several businesses have signs that require a shirt and shoes for service. Other businesses with drive-thru windows require one to be in a vehicle for service. Schools required visitors to check in the front office before visiting other parts of the school.
COVID-10 Stays In the Air Longer Than First Believe
For four months we have been glued to any news source trying to learn everything about what COVID-19 is, what are the symptoms, how it is treated, and most importantly, how to prevent it from getting infected by it. Wearing a mask has become our new fashion statement. Staying six-feet apart from the next person is second nature. Washing our hands is now a ritual. And touching our face is strictly forbidden.
Turner Requests the Shut Down of the Republican Convention
Mayor Sylvester Turner, in his quest to reduce the spread of COVID-19, has requested that the Texas Republican Convention scheduled in Houston at the George R. Brown Convention for July 16-18th be shut down.
Why You Should Want to Vote
George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain, Sandra Bland, Trayvon Martin, just the mention of their names alone ought to be enough to make you want to vote. When there are areas of town populated by Black and Brown people that lack adequate places to grocery shop, obtain healthcare, and play in parks than other areas of town populated by mainly Caucasian ought to be enough to make you want to vote.
Mayor Turner And 8 Texans Mayors Demand Mask Requirements From Gov. Abbott
Over the past few days Houston has set records and not the good kind. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city has been on a rise. The Memorial Day weekend and numerous protests have blamed in the spike. Social distancing and wearing masks has proven to be the most efficient way of combating the coronavirus. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed he supports such precautions in a press conference held earlier this week.
Black Fathers: The Heavy Weight On Their Minds
“Dad changed the world,” said a proud six-year-old Gianna, the youngest daughter of George Floyd, the Houston man who was killed by a former Minnesota police officer after he put his knee on the neck of Floyd for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. Most children are like Gianna in putting their dads on pedestals believing that they are fearless, strong, and will protect them at all cost. However, in the eyes of America, Black fathers are viewed in a different light making them have a bad wrap.
Remembering the Legend Dr. Thomas F. Freeman
Talk about a life well lived, Dr. Thomas F. Freeman did just that. Traversing on this earth for 100 years, the impact that he made on students, the community, and the world is long lasting. He was the epitome of a living, walking, legend.
Salute to the Class of 2020: Nothing Will Stand In Their Way
2020 has proven to be a year we will never forget. From the onset of a global pandemic to being quarantine for months to the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, 2020 has worn us out and we still have half a year left. The very way we have live our lives has been drastically altered.
Black America Is Burning With Pain
Before any fire can start, there must first be a stimulant. A fire is the result of a chemical reaction after carbon dioxide, water vapor, oxygen and nitrogen come together in a process called combustion. When a fire roars our bodies feel an intense burn from the heat it gives off. Our eyes are mesmerized by the orange and yellow colors that are reflected by a fire’s sparks and flames.
“We Got All Four”
“We got all four. We got all four,” was the rally cry that rang out around the world by protestors in Minneapolis, Minnesota as the four former officers involved in the death of George Floyd were finally arrested and charged with his murder. Derek Chauvin, Tou Thao, J. Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane are all in custody awaiting trial.
