575 Ways Families Can Reduce Summer Learning Loss for Back to School
Post-summer “brain drain” or summer learning loss for students is real, according to Harris County Department of Education Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment for Kids (CASE for Kids) Director Lisa Thompson-Caruthers. Most teachers spend at least three weeks re-teaching last year’s lessons at the beginning of each school year, she said.
Seeking America’s Next Superstar: Main Event to Host Singing Contest for ‘Houston Idol’
Five winners of local singing competition on Aug. 28 will receive a Silver Ticket to audition for ‘American Idol’ executive producers
Not only is Main Event America’s go-to destination for fun; it’s also helping Houstonians win a chance to become the next American Idol!
Lake Charles to Host 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing
USA Boxing and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee have awarded the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing to Lake Charles, Louisiana. Scheduled for Dec. 7-15, 2019, the trials will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center, with the finals taking place at the Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel. In conjunction with the Trials, the 2019 USA Boxing National Championships will be held to determine USA Boxing’s junior and youth high performance teams for 2020.
USDA Forest Service Awards First Community Forest Conservation Program Grant in Texas
Through the Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program, the USDA Forest Service awarded the first grant to a project in Texas. The funds will benefit a community forest project on Sink Creek in the city of San Marcos, Hays County, Texas.
Afghanistan's National Growers Union Saffron Quality Raises The Bar For Color, Flavor and Quality
The test results are in, and saffron from Afghanistan has surpassed expectations for quality. While Afghan producers have long believed in the quality of their production, third party lab results on 51 samples tested against ISO 3632 by a fully accredited laboratory in India confirms the exceptional quality of the Afghan product.
FEMA grants $119 million to the City of Houston for emergency protective measures during and after Hurricane Harvey
In the two years since Hurricane Harvey made landfall, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $119 million to the City of Houston for emergency protective measures taken after Hurricane Harvey’s landfall.
National Civil Rights Organization Opposes Efforts to Gut Civil Rights Protections Under the Affordable Care Act
The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law filed a comment opposing the Trump Administration’s proposed rule to limit civil rights protections in health care under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.
Statement on HISD Takeover Matt Barnes for HISD District IV
Some may attempt to defend the HISD overall “B” ranking, but in my neighborhood, (District IV), 10 out of 16 elementary schools have received either a D or F rating for student achievement, and that is unacceptable.
America?s Racial Wealth Gap Could Cost Economy $1.5 Trillion
America's nagging racial wealth gap has been the focus of many research reports and economic policy debates. Now new research analyzes the strong connection between disproportionate wealth and financial services and products that are either shared or denied with consumers of color.
Lights All Night Announces Lineup Feat. Skrillex, Bassnectar, Virtual Self, Louis the Child & More // Tickets On Sale This Thursday For 10th Annual NYE Weekend Music Festival
Lights All Night, one of the longest running end-of-the-year parties in Dallas and across the country, is excited to officially announce the music lineup for the 10th annual music festival returning to Dallas Market Hall near downtown Dallas, Texas on Friday and Saturday, December 27 and 28 of New Year’s Eve weekend. Two-day GA tickets, as well as various VIP packages are on sale this Thursday, August 22 at www.lightsallnight.com.
Houston’s Most Luxurious VIP Shooting Range Opens – The Bellaire Shooting Range
Grand Opening Event Aug 28th 2019, Wednesday 6pm-8pm
The opening of the Bellaire Shooting Range marks a new level in a luxurious shooting range experience. The largest shooting range in the Houston area, the Bellaire Shooting Range offers patrons a 5-star luxury experience, with an exclusive VIP room and 20 shooting lines. They boast a full range of firearms education including safety & marksman courses, Texas License to Carry (LTC) Courses; handgun, rifle and shotgun basic training courses.
“Carla Coleman - 2019 Sickle Cell Houston Walk Chair ”
Carla has served the Sickle Cell Disease “SCD” Community for many years as a Community Outreach Specialist (CCHW) with the UT Health System, where she promoted public awareness to health education services, wellness issues and resources for the SCD and Gerontology communities.
Industrial Bank Celebrates its 85th Anniversary
Industrial Bank was founded in 1934 by Jesse H. Mitchell with the help of nine initial investors, and has grown significantly since its humble though confident beginnings.
Trivedi Global CEO Vitamin D is Key Author Alice Branton Talks Thyroid Disease on NBC Daytime with Jerry Penacoli
International Best-selling author Alice Branton is on a mission to champion the breakthrough science of Life Force Energy, Trivedi Effect®, and its applications in pharmaceutical and nutraceuticals product research to usher in a new era of human health and wellness.
ACLU Files Court Brief to Address Prolonged Immigration Detention and Lack of Access to Counsel at the Border
The ACLU of Texas and the ACLU National Prison Project filed a legal brief requesting that a federal court order U.S. Customs and Border Protection to stop its practice of detaining migrants in deplorable conditions without access to an attorney. The friend of the court brief was filed in support of a class-action lawsuit challenging the conditions of those detained by CBP in south Texas.
First of five Texas restaurants as part of 2019 expansion throughout the U.S.
Atlanta-based Tin Drum Asian Kitchen, a Pan Asian restaurant that transports its guests to a street side café in Asia, complete with hawker style cuisine and atmosphere, will open the first of five restaurants in Houston this year. Tin Drum has tapped experienced Houston restaurateurs Shairoz Lakhani, Avez Maredia and Faizan Momin to own and operate the five units in the Houston area. They are currently identifying potential locations and plan to open by the end of the year.
Big Sean Is Set to Perform at the 2019 MTV VMAS
Fans can vote for the “Best New Artist” award, presented by Taco Bell®, by visiting vma.mtv.com leading up to the VMA broadcast. Fans on Twitter and Facebook Messenger can also slide into VMAs’ DMs to cast an additional vote for “Video of the Year,” “Song of the Year,” and more. Fans will also be able to ask Alexa to “vote for the VMAs” for “Artist of the Year” within the MTV skill on Alexa-enabled devices.
Governor Abbott Announces New Uber Hub in Dallas
Governor Greg Abbott today announced that Uber Technologies, Inc. will establish a new U.S. General and Administrative Hub that will house various corporate functions in Dallas, Texas. Uber is a multinational company that offers ride hailing services, food delivery, and other forms of transportation worldwide. The project will create 3,000 new jobs and more than $75 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $24,000,000 has been extended to Uber Technologies, Inc.
Planned Parenthood Chooses Abortion Over Women’s Health
Today, Jessica Anderson, Vice President of Heritage Action, issued the following statement in response to Planned Parenthood's decision to officially withdraw from the Title X Family Planning program instead of complying with the Trump administration's Protect Life rule:
Mahendra Kumar Trivedi's book hits No. 1 International Best Seller list on Amazon for 45-Minute Science and Math Short Reads
Author Mahendra Kumar Trivedi has authored hundreds of science-related books and papers. Recently "Thermal and Physical Properties of Biofield Treated Bile Salt and Protesose Peptone" became a No. 1 International Best Seller on Amazon for 45-Minute Science and Math Short Reads, and eight additional categories including Nosology, Biophysics, Preventive Medicine, Biochemistry, Medical Technology, Pathophysiology, Molecular Biology, Science Reference, and Preventative Medicine.
Governor Abbott To Hold Ceremonial Bill Signing Establishing College of Medicine At University of Houston
Governor Greg Abbott will ceremonially sign House Bill 826 into law on Wednesday, August 21 in Houston. House Bill 826 (Zerwas/Huffman) establishes the University of Houston College of Medicine in Houston.
Blue Star Contemporary Looks Back in Time with New Program: If Walls Could Talk
Artist Ethel Shipton and actor, writer, stand-up comic Sarah Fisch discuss the importance of artist communities and the history of San Antonio’s Blue Star Arts Complex
To complement her installation You Just Have to Hear It, which highlights the importance of artist communities, Fünf exhibiting artist Ethel Shipton and actor, writer, stand-up comic Sarah Fisch host an evening of conversations with artists and community members who have been integral to the past and present of the Blue Star Arts Complex.
Representative Garnet F. Coleman Announces Bid for Re-Election
Today, August 20th, Representative Garnet F. Coleman (D-147) released the following statement:
Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Urban Harvest and Clear Channel Outdoors Launch Public Service Campaign to Promote Farmers Markets that Bring Local Produce to Houston’s Food Deserts
Initiative Includes Double Up Houston Program that Allows SNAP Recipients to Purchase $40 of Produce for $20
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Clear Channel Outdoor and Urban Harvest on Saturday, Aug. 17 launched a public service campaign, including 13 donated billboards, to promote the Double Up Houston program that allows families to use their SNAP benefits to bring home double the amount of fresh locally grown food from participating farmers markets.
“No Time To Die” Official Title of the 25th James Bond Film
“No Time To Die” is Set to Release in the U.K. on April 3 and in the U.S on April 8
James Bond Producers, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli today released the official title of the 25th James Bond adventure, No Time To Die. The film, from Albert R. Broccoli’s EON Productions, Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios (MGM), and Universal Pictures International is directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga (Beasts of No Nation, True Detective) and stars Daniel Craig, who returns for his fifth film as Ian Fleming’s James Bond 007.
Black Congressional Leadership Grills JUUL Executives
“We are as committed, as ever, to combating youth usage, but don’t take our word for it, look at our actions,” JUUL Labs said in a statement.
Loretta Devine at 70: On A Divine Assignment
Many associate Loretta Devine, with her many memorable performances on both the big and small screen, including the hit movies Waiting to Exhale and Jumping The Broom, as well as her Emmy-winning performance on Grey’s Anatomy, her scene-stealing role on Being Mary Jane, her starring role on the breakout hit, The Carmichael Show or her voice on the hugely popular, Doc McStuffins.
Houston Native Turns Over Command of Naval Support Activity Sarasota Springs
Cmdr. Christopher J. Tejada, a native of Houston, recently turned over command of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Saratoga Springs, New York, to Cmdr. Phillip Boice at a change of command ceremony held at the Saratoga Springs Knights of Columbus organization.
Houston “To Showcase the City” During Convention
Mayor Turner describes Convention as “an infusion of fresh air”
After two years of preparation, 50,000 will be in Houston to attend the Spanish-language “Love Never Fails”! International Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses August 23-25, 2019, at NRG Stadium.
Take an inner transformational journey and free yourself from limiting, negative thoughts
Flavia Mosci, M.S., releases ‘I Flow: 738+ Words Toward Awareness and Mental Freedom’
In her debut book release, author Flavia Mosci, M.S., teaches readers how to break free from negative patterns of thinking and attain freedom through an inner transformational journey.
Book introduces readers to metals and manufacturing industries
Krishan Katyal announces the release of ‘Essential Guide to Metals and Manufacturing’
Krishan Katyal spent nearly 40 years with manufacturers of machine tools and metal machining and welding companies. He felt there should be a book that covers major topics related to metals and manufacturing, which led him to come up with “Essential Guide to Metals and Manufacturing” (published by Xlibris).
Artists, Activists, Labor & Civil Rights Leaders Pen Letter of Support To Latino Community After El Paso Shooting and ICE Raids
America Ferrera, Eva Longoria, Diane Guerrero, Alex Martinez Kondracke, Mónica Ramírez, and Olga Segura, Along With Jennifer Lopez, Gina Rodriguez, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Carmen Perez, Anthony D. Romero, Wilmer Valderrama, Zoe Saldana, Salma Hayek Pinault, Ricky Martin, Rosario Dawson, Diego Luna, Dolores Huerta, Sandra Cisneros and More Sign Letter Published in the New York Times, El Nuevo Herald, La Opinión, and El Diario
Pediatricians Say Racism is Devastating to Black Children- Let's Get to the Root Cause
It's amazing how often the news media give big play to an academic report that tells us something Black mothers already knew. Another example of the old wisdom nothing is real until White people discover or acknowledge it. Does that seem harsh? Consider the splashy coverage given to a recent policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics entitled The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health.
How Early Orthodontic Evaluation Can Save Your Child A Mouthful Of Problems
Oral diseases affect almost half the global population, and recent research indicates they persist because oral health has not been prioritized as much as traditional healthcare.
Business Betrayals: Protecting Yourself From Workplace Treachery
Betrayal in business can come in many forms. A supervisor who gives specific directions for a project, then lays the blame squarely on you when things go awry. An employee who fails to inform you of a high-end client’s unhappiness, leaving you blindsided and feeling the CEO’s wrath when the client cancels a contract.
Governor Abbott Reappoints Clayton To Texas Judicial Council
Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Sonia Clayton to the Texas Judicial Council for a term set to expire on June 30, 2025. The council studies the court system in Texas and looks for methods to improve while also investigating and reporting on matters referred to the council relating to the court system.
MCCA Announces Regional Winners and Inaugural International Winner for the 2019 Employer of Choice Award
Today, the Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA) announced the regional winners and its inaugural international winner for its 2019 Employer of Choice Award. The Employer of Choice Award honors corporate legal departments who have made meaningful commitments to creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Free Press Action Pleased to See Beto O’Rourke Challenge White-Supremacist Violence but Skeptical of Proposal to Weaken Section 230
Democratic presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke announced on Friday his plan to combat hate and violence in the United States. The candidate’s proposal includes requiring large social-media platforms to create systems designed to remove hateful activities on their sites.
ACLU of Texas Statement on Plano’s Rape Crisis Center
The Plano City Council will hold a council budget workshop this Saturday to discuss the possible defunding of The Turning Point, the only rape crisis center in Collin County. Two city council members expressed concern about the center providing emergency contraception, such as the high dosage version of oral birth control known as Plan B, to survivors of sexual assault.
Arts District Houston Launches with New Mural Project Paying Homage to Neighborhood's Rich History
Arts District Houston (the Arts District), a state-appointed Arts and Cultural District, will reveal its first major mural project since Art Alley at Sawyer Yards, with a new, interactive series that will reflect the rich history of Houston’s historic First and Sixth Wards. With five projects in the works, the murals will engage multiple artists across various mediums to reflect what is unique about the neighborhoods that make up the Arts District and culminate with an “Arts District Houston” mural in October during Arts District Month. A ribbon-cutting and unveiling event will formally introduce the Arts District, previously known as Washington Avenue Arts District, and the on-going mural project on August 30 at Henderson and Kane General Store from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Study Finds Lack of Racial Diversity in Cancer Drug Clinical Trials
New research published this week in JAMA Oncology, which includes contributions from a Baylor University undergraduate researcher, has found a lack of racial and ethnic diversity in clinical trials for cancer drugs.
City-Hosted Community Rain Barrel, Compost Bin Sale Now Open
The City of Houston Green Building Resource Center helps area residents conserve natural resources to lessen the effects of the Texas heat by offering rain barrels and compost bins at a discounted price. The fall edition of its biannual online sale is now open, with a pick-up date of Saturday, October 12.
Why do women get cholesterol-lowering statins less frequently than men?
Women are less likely than men to be treated with cholesterol-lowering statins – or get them prescribed at guideline-recommended intensity levels when they do, according to a new study that also looked at reasons behind the discrepancies.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Announces Gun Violence Prevention Summit and Roundtable
Jackson Lee: “If we are serious about tackling gun violence, then we must take reasonable, commonsense steps towards that end. This is why, on September 3, 2019, I will be hosting a gun violence prevention summit and roundtable. This meeting will include members of law enforcement, medical professionals, statisticians, parents and community leaders. It will include stakeholders who, like me, are sickened by the incidences of mass shootings and gun violence. It will require attendees to explore how, collectively, we can stem the tide of this uniquely American scourge. All attending will recognize that this time cannot be a time where we do nothing. We must do something. This includes urging the Senate to pass pieces of legislation which have already cleared the House of Representatives. In February, the House passed H.R. 8, legislation designed to implement universal background checks in all gun purchases, and H.R 1112, which would close the “Charleston Loophole.” Passing commonsense gun violence prevention legislation also means ensuring that weapons of war are not readily accessible to the wholesale public, enabling the most perverse and dangerous to inflict carnage. This includes limiting the amount of ammunition readily available, so that the bloodshed inflicted by the shooter in Dayton is not again replicated.”
NRG Stadium Again Transformed Into a House of Worship
Thousands of Local Volunteers Transform Stadium for the Second Time in a Month
For the past 17 years NRG Stadium has hosted its share of football games, rodeos and soccer matches – not to mention numerous concerts. However, for the second time in a month thousands of Jehovah’s Witnesses will be converting the stadium into a place of worship for their “Love Never Fails”! International Convention
Silafrica Tanzania Honored with Five East Africa Best Brand Awards
Silafrica, a leading packaging supplier to East Africa and surrounding regions was the honored recipient of five 2019 East Africa Best Brand Awards. The company produces rigid packaging for food, beverage and chemicals packaging as well as consumer products for the middle income and base of pyramid populations in Africa for home, sanitation, and schools.
To Go or Not to Go
I recently returned from a mission trip to Brazil with eleven members of my Presbyterian church in Wilmington, North Carolina. Partnering with a Presbyterian congregation in Manaus, our team, which included three physicians and two nurses, furnished medical assistance, dental instruction, drugs, and eye glasses to more than 600 children and adults in four remote villages on a tributary of the Amazon.
Harris County Democratic Party Statement on Representative Jessica Farrar's Retirement
We are beyond grateful for Representative Jessica Farrar's 25 years of service in the Texas Legislature. Representative Farrar was a devoted fighter for the people of her district and a fierce advocate for the rights of women.
Josh Gordon to be Reinstated On Conditional Basis
Commissioner ROGER GOODELL notified JOSH GORDON of the New England Patriots that he will be reinstated to the NFL on a conditional basis.
The Bible: A Gift That Reaches the Heart
A momentous event took place on July 19, 2019, with the release of the revised edition of the New World Translation in Spanish at the “Love Never Fails”! International Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Madrid, Spain. The revised edition in English was released earlier in 2013 and more languages are being worked on for the future. This Spanish language edition of the Bible is a welcome gift to many living in the culturally rich city of Houston.