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Court Blocks Texas General Land Office, From Seizing Control of City Harvey Funds
Mayor Announces That Program Will Continue Helping Houstonians Repair Harvey Damages
In a significant victory for Houstonians with homes damaged during Harvey, Mayor Sylvester Turner today announced that the City of Houston won a temporary injunction to stop the Texas General Land Office and GLO Commissioner George P. Bush from removing over $1.2 billion in Hurricane Harvey disaster relief from the City.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation and Robert F. Smith Announce New Effort To Address Health Disparities for A/A Men
Expanded Research Program and Revolutionary, Inexpensive, Non-invasive Test To Assess Genetic Risk Of Prostate Cancer
The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) and Robert F. Smith, founder, chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, announce a new effort to reduce deaths from prostate cancer, one of the largest health disparities facing African American men today.
Oxford's COVID-19 Vaccine Appears Safe And Induces Strong Immune Responses
Results from trials involving three different coronavirus vaccines released Monday, all showing positive results, with evidence the vaccines can produce immune responses that would be expected to protect people against infection.
Mayor Turner Discusses COVID-19 Impact on City Employees
Offers Condolences To Families Of Employees Who Died
Today, Mayor Sylvester Turner extended prayers and condolences to the families of two Houston Public Works employees who passed away last week due to COVID-19. Natarvia Robertson worked in Customer Account Services, and Michael Sanchez worked in Transportation & Drainage Operations.
Congressman Al Green: “It Was Always an Honor to Get into Good Trouble with the Honorable John Lewis”
On Saturday, July 18, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement:
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement On the Passing of Civil Rights Icon and Legend - Congressman John R.Lewis
“He was strong, fierce and powerful. And of course, he was a man of strength and resolve that believed America’s divisiveness cannot end without a commitment to the Beloved Community. We will miss John Lewis forever. But what we must do is continue the journey that John Lewis started, and that is a journey toward freedom.” - Sheila Jackson Lee
OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network Remembers Congressman John Lewis with Special Programming
In memory of Congressman John Lewis, OWN will present a special re-airing of “Oprah’s Master Class” from 2018 to air this Sunday, July 19 at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT and “Oprah Winfrey Presents: Legends Who Paved The Way” from 2015 to air on Sunday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT. Episodes will also live stream on OWN’s Facebook page and will be available for free on the Watch OWN app.
Tom Steyer Statement on the Passing of Congressman John Lewis
Climate activist, NextGen America founder, and former Democratic presidential candidate Tom Steyer released the following statement on the passing of Civil Rights titan, Congressman John Lewis:
Civil Rights Icon and Longtime Georgia Congressman John Lewis was the Great Collaborator Who Expanded the Civil Rights Movement, SCLC President Dr. Charles Steele, Jr. Says
Dr. Charles Steele, Jr., president and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the organization co-founded and first led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., issued the following statement today upon learning the passing of legendary civil rights leader and longtime Georgia Congressman John Lewis. Lewis, who resided in Atlanta, died Friday at the age of 80.
Texas Democrats on the Passing of Civil Rights Icon John Lewis
Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa, Vice Chair Carla Brailey, Finance Chair Chris Hollins, Treasurer Mike Floyd, and Secretary Lee Forbes issued the following statement:
Council Members Pollard and Thomas Offer Free COVID Testing, Masks & Food during ‘Community Day’
City Council Member for District J Edward Pollard and City Council Member for District F Tiffany Thomas have partnered to host Community Day, a joint mask and food distribution effort spanning both districts.
Susan Rice 10/3 from 5/1 for Vice President Role
Kamala Harris Eased Further out to 11/10 from 4/5
Susan Rice has already spent plenty of time in the White House being Barack Obama’s former national security advisor but she could be heading back there as her odds on becoming the next Vice President shrunk further on Saturday morning.
The Office for Career, Professional Development & Diversity Initiatives
With a new name, career services office at Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law explores shift from traditional hiring practices and the shared belief that diversity truly matters in the profession
Member of National African American Reparations Commission Assaulted by Racist Mob in Tulsa, Oklahoma
On Wednesday, July 15, Rev. Robert Turner, a commissioner from the National African American Reparations Commission (NAARC) [https://ibw21.org/naarc] was assaulted, both physically and verbally, by an angry white mob outside of City Hall in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The incident was caught on cell phone video.
What Happened to INGDirect.com?
While INGDirect.com was not the first business in the U.S. to offer direct online banking, it offered one of the earliest simple online savings accounts. The bank became well known for its low fees, and when its customers heard that it was changing hands in 2011, one customer pleaded with executives not to “turn ING Direct into just another bank that the old ING Direct would’ve made fun of.”
Senator Kamala Harris Statement on the Passing of Civil Rights Hero John Lewis
U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) on Saturday released the following statement on the passing of Congressman John Lewis. Congressman Lewis passed away on Friday, July 17, 2020.
KIPP Texas-Houston Revises School Restart Plans
Based on new guidance from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) that allows more flexibility in how school districts start the year, KIPP Texas-Houston has adjusted the fall school restart plans.
Texas Democrats on A Federal Judge Ruling that Texas Republicans Can Proceed WIth an In-Person Convention in the Biggest Coronavirus Hotspot in the Country
“After proving that they couldn’t handle a virtual convention, Texas Republicans are now willing to risk the lives of millions of Texans because they are too technologically inept to continue in a safe and distant manner.
Federal $600 Unemployment Payments to End July 25 State Unemployment Benefits to Continue
TWC Reminds Public that Funding Expires Due to Congressional Timeline
The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program is part of the CARES Act that provides an additional $600 to benefit payments, and based on TWC’s contract with the US Department of Labor, the last payable week for FPUC is the week ending July 25, 2020.
The Black Women’s Health Imperative Announces Anniversary Week Celebration To Commemorate 38 Years
Week-Long Celebration To Include Over 30 Speakers From The Women’s Health, Community Activism, Media & Entertainment Sectors
Today, the Black Women’s Health Imperative announced the commemoration of its 38th Anniversary with a series of special events titled BWHI Anniversary Week: A Celebration of Life, Legacy and Service to Black Women presented by Bumble. The week-long series of virtual events will occur from July 26 – August 1 with participation by dynamic speakers who include: cultural icon and professor Angela Davis, BWHI Founder & Board Member Byllye Avery, actresses Jurnee Smollett, AJ Johnson, and Angelica Ross, recording artists Keri Hilson and Syleena Johnson, television personalities Cynthia Bailey, Egypt Sherrod, Eboni K. Williams, and Erica Cobb, and a host of other health professionals, community activists and non-profit leaders who share in the organization’s mission.
Fort Bend County Judge KP George Launches Parent Survey
To better understand how Fort Bend County can support its residents with school-age children as they prepare for the upcoming semester, Fort Bend County Judge KP George is gathering community input through a parent survey.
HCDE Board Approves $174.5 Million 2020-2021 Budget
The Harris County Department of Education Board of Trustees approved a $174.5 million budget for the 2020-2021 school year Wednesday, continuing programs and services that effectively support students, educators and school districts in Harris County. With this budget, HCDE maintains its business model, which preserves the integrity of its services to school districts. The budget also provides for ongoing support for HCDE employees through competitive compensation and benefits.
Top Hip-Hop, R&B, and Gospel Artists Celebrate 2020 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards with Online Performances, Memorable Speeches and Powerful Tributes in Three-Day Social
Cardi B Makes History as First Woman to Win Back-to-Back
In Response to Lawsuit Filed By Minority Voters and Voting Rights Advocates, Secretary of the Commonwealth Begins Mailing Ballot Applications
Following an emergency petition filed in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) by seven Black, Latinx, and Asian-American voters, Common Cause Massachusetts, and MassVOTE, the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Galvin has started sending mail-in ballot applications to voters.
Dr. James Dixon Eulogizes The Memory of John Lewis and C.T. Vivian. "They Challenged Us To Change!"
At such a critical national moment, a force for freedom and equality has fallen!
In the wake of the passing of two American icons, the Honorable John Lewis, and Dr. C.T. Vivian, this message by Dr. James Dixon is powerful. “Divine Interruptions to American Hypocrisy.”
Space Center Houston Opens with New Safety Measures and New Experiences
Today Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, welcomes back guests to a new enhanced guest experience with new safety measures and new exhibits. Registration is also open for the center’s Explorer Camps and Space Center U® education programs.
Kanye Drops Out & Trump Drifts to 13/8 from 5/4 to be Re-Elected
Joe Biden 4/7 Favourite to Become Next US President
Kanye West has dropped out of the 2020 US Presidential Election after he failed to get the backing in Florida despite a 180-strong team and it has resulted in Donald Trump drifting further for another four years.
Governor Abbott Announces U.S. Navy Support In Rio Grande Valley, Southwest Texas To Help Combat COVID-19
Governor Abbott today announced that the U.S. Department of Defense has sent five U.S. Navy teams to four locations in South and Southwest Texas to help combat the spread of COVID-19. Beginning today, one U.S. Navy Acute Care Team will provide support at the Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen and four U.S. Navy Rural Rapid Response Teams will support hospitals in Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and Rio Grande City. These teams consist of medical and support professionals which are being deployed to help meet medical needs in hospitals throughout the state.
AHF Mourns Passing of ‘Good Friend’ Congressman John Lewis, Civil Rights Icon
Global AIDS organization salutes Georgia congressman, a leader and icon in the civil rights movement and one who also pushed for funding for global access to HIV/AIDS care and treatment
AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) today sadly mourns the death of United States Representative John Lewis (D-GA), an icon in the civil rights movement. His family announced his passing in a statement Friday evening, noting Congressman Lewis was “…honored and respected as the conscience of the US Congress and an icon of American history, … a stalwart champion in the on-going struggle to demand respect for the dignity and worth of every human being.
NeuMoDx™ Molecular Announces CE Mark for HPV Diagnostic Test Company continues to expand its CE-IVD Menu
NeuMoDx™ Molecular, a sample-to-result molecular diagnostic company focused on central laboratory customers, announced today it has received CE Mark approval for its molecular diagnostic test for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which was developed in collaboration with Self-screen BV (Amsterdam, the Netherlands). HPV is the virus regarded as the major cause of cervical cancer.
How COVID-19 is Changing Elder Care, Senior Housing and In-Home Caregiving in Houston
The threat of COVID-19 in nursing homes and assisted living facilities is changing the way seniors, and their families, approach where and how they receive care.
New Book Proposes Universal Principles From the Bible for Solutions to America's Social and Financial Problems
On July 2, 2020 the book entitled, From Church House to Main Street, by Edward Wayne Kimbrough, involving ten years of research, was completed by the publisher. The book is based on a scientific analysis of the Holy Bible to develop Universal Principles that can bring unity to the American people and the world community.
Houston Educators, School Personnel and Community Groups Issue Recommendations for Safe Reopening of Houston Schools
Key Recommendation: Open School Year with Virtual Learning if Number of Cases of COVID-19 Has Not Declined for 14 Consecutive Days
Houston educators and community groups released comprehensive recommendations today for reopening Houston public schools in the absence of adequate guidelines from the state or the Houston Independent School District, saying they won’t sacrifice the health and safety of any student or school employee just for the sake of reopening school buildings.
David Weekley Homes Celebrates 100,000 Closing
David Weekley Homes, one of the nation’s largest privately-held home builders, has achieved another incredible milestone in the company’s history with its 100,000th home closing since the company’s inception in 1976.
Joya T. Hayes Installed as the South Central Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
In the wake of COVID-19, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, along with many other organizations across the globe, pivoted to virtual platforms to meet the needs of its members. On June 3, 2020, for the first time in the organization's 112-year history, a virtual election was held in which Joya T. Hayes prevailed as the South Central Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston provides guidance for emotional health of children and teens during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
The physical and emotional well-being of children and teens involved with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston (BGCGH) is of paramount importance. The nonprofit continues to serve as a community resource to provide guidance for parents and children who may be struggling with a higher degree of stress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which can affect a person’s emotional and mental health.
Kroger Houston Kicks Off Annual Backpack Boosters School Supply Drive
Customers can donate a school supply kit at any Houston Kroger location
Thousands of students will receive free school supplies as part of Kroger’s annual Backpack Boosters school supply drive.
T.E.A. Issues Comprehensive Guidelines For 2020 Safe Return To On-Campus Instructions
The Texas Education Agency to- day announced comprehensive guidelines for students to return to school, prioritizing their health and safety while ensuring that students receive quality instruction, whether they choose to learn in a safe on-campus environment or remotely.
H-E-B Opens Spring Green Market
H-E-B will expand its footprint within the Richmond community, opening its newest location, the long-awaited H-E-B Spring Green Market Wednesday, June 24. Located at 9211 FM 723, the 101,000-square foot store will offer residents a world-class, spacious shopping destination with a pledge to deliver unsurpassed freshness and quality at affordable prices.
METRO Bus Operators, METROLift Contract Driver Among Latest COVID-19 Cases
METRO has received confirmation two bus operators, a First Transit contract driver for METROLift, a METROLift dispatcher and a METRO STAR Vanpool employee have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the total number of cases to 100 METRO employees and 24 contractors. Forty-six of the employees had no contact with the public.
Harris County Attorney Ryan Continues to Fight For Right to Sue Local Polluters
Ryan responds to Appeal after State loses in Trial Court
Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan is continuing his court battle to protect local residents from polluters, responding to Attorney General Ken Paxton’s legal effort seeking to prevent the County Attorney’s Office from suing companies that harm the environment.
SPLC Action Fund Calls for Immediate Removal of Mississippi Confederate Monument
On Monday, July 20, the Black Empowerment Organization (BEO) and community members will call on the Neshoba County Board of Supervisors to eliminate symbols of the Confederacy in public spaces by removing the Confederate monument located in front of the courthouse.
Governor Abbott, Lt. Governor Patrick, Speaker Bonnen, Senate Finance, House Appropriations Committee Chairs Announce eLearning Funding For Texas Students
Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Senate Finance Committee Chair Jane Nelson, Vice Chair Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, and House Appropriations Committee Chair Giovanni Capriglione and Vice Chair Oscar Longoria today announced that the State of Texas will allocate $200 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for the purchase of eLearning devices and home internet solutions to enable remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic for Texas students that lack connectivity.
Texas Southern University's KTSU 90.9 FM Debuts #OneVoice
The new show will blend generational voice as they tackle contemporary issues facing the urban community
With the recent racial unrest in our country, now more than ever before, our voices are needed to highlight the social ills plaguing the Black community. That’s why Texas Southern University’s community radio station KTSU, The Choice 90.9 is proud to debut #ONEVOICE, a new talk radio show that is designed to educate, empower and engage the Black community and its allies.
New rule will put more African-Americans and Hispanics at risk for COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic is ravaging the nation and taking a disproportionate toll on African American and Hispanic communities. Yet the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services just moved ahead with a rule that will make it more difficult for vulnerable Americans to access the medicines they need.
Society for the Performing Arts Launches Commissioning Project for Houston Artists
Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) announces a new commissioning project for Houston artists, SPA Houston Artist Commissioning Project (HACP). SPA's goal is to promote and sustain Houston’s working artists and artist communities by supporting the creation of new works across all performing arts disciplines. In this pilot year, the project will progress through two phases: an initial period of virtual commissions, followed by larger-scale live performance commissions presented in Jones Hall for the Performing Arts.
Mayor Turner Appoints New Press Secretary
Mayor Sylvester Turner has tapped communications and public affairs professional Ada Ortega to serve as his new press secretary.
HISD to Reconnect Safely, Return Strong for 2020-2021 School Year
All students to return to school virtually for six weeks; families may choose all-virtual learning
With the health and safety of students, families, and staff as the top priority, all HISD students will begin the 2020-2021 school year virtually on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. Virtual instruction for all students will continue for six weeks through Friday, October 16.
Ralph Cooper Recognized at Harris County Commissioner Court for Being Inducted into Texas Radio Hall of Fame
To recognize a media legend who has kept Houston-area residents informed about sports and news for more than a half century, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis congratulated Ralph Cooper at Commissioners Court on Tuesday for his induction into Texas Radio Hall of Fame.
Kroger Helping Hands Fund Provides Millions to Associates in Need During Pandemic
More than $5 million invested to support Kroger associates impacted by COVID-19
The Kroger Company recently announced that in response to the COVID19 pandemic, it has given out $5 million in associate grants through the Kroger Helping Hands Fund as part of a number of efforts to help ensure its associates are supported and protected.