May 3rd, 2024

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President Biden sounds alarm on pending holiday omicron disaster, urges all to get fully vaccinated

Featured, Health, National, News, NNPA /

With hospitalizations rising around the country, the Biden-Harris administration are working with medical experts to stop the spread of COVID-19 and to blunt the impact of the new Omicron variant. Broadway shows are shuttering, some professional sports teams again are playing without fans in attendance, and some nations are enacting travel bans. “I want to send a direct message to the American people: Due to the steps we’ve taken, Omicron has not yet spread as fast as it would’ve otherwise done and as is happening in Europe,” President Biden asserted. “But it’s here now, and it’s spreading, and it’s going to increase,” he insisted. Experts at the University of Minnesota’s Centers for Infectious Disease Research and Policy issued a warning that millions of Americans might suffer infections over the holidays because of the Omicron variant. The National Hockey League’s Montreal Canadiens announced the team’s upcoming games will take place without fans, and the NFL and NBA have reported uptick in COVID-related player issues. Dr. Allen Sills, the NFL’s chief medical officer, said the omicron variant has been found among cases throughout the league. The NBA’s Chicago Bulls canceled two games this week because of an outbreak among personnel in the Windy City. Some colleges and universities have returned to online learning, and some grade schools have resorted to hybrid models. “For unvaccinated, we are looking at a winter of severe illness and death – if you’re unvaccinated – for themselves, their families, and the hospitals they’ll soon overwhelm,” President Biden declared in a statement late Thursday. He said those fully vaccinated – including booster shots – are protected from severe illness and death. The President proclaimed that “booster shots work.” “They are free, safe, and convenient,” the President said. About 60 million people have received booster shots, and the White House continues to urge all to protect themselves. “It’s time. It’s past time,” President Biden remarked. “And we’re going to protect our economic recovery if we do this. We’re going to keep schools and businesses open if we do this. And I want to see everyone around enjoy that. I […]

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Lone Star College-North Harris receives 2021 Star Award for response to COVID-19

Education, Local, News /

HOUSTON  – The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board recognized    Lone Star College-North Harris as a recipient of the 2021 Star Award on Thursday, Dec. 2, at this year’s Leadership Conference. LSC-North Harris is one of 10 higher education institutions across the state selected for the Star Award because of its outstanding response to COVID-19. The criteria for the award were based on a clear demonstration of implementing strategies to ensure the health, safety, and success of our community through partnership and innovative and creative strategies. “This award validates that the return to building plans developed by the Chief Operating Officer and implemented by LSC-North Harris was effective in doing its part in training and certifying essential personnel, and getting them into the workforce, even in the midst of the pandemic,” said Dr. Archie L. Blanson, president, LSC-North Harris. The college’s response to COVID-19 began by shifting nearly 75% of classes online while still making traditional resources available through online access. Each building on campus displayed signage to ensure social distancing and the latest CDC guidelines, along with a thorough check-in process, including temperature checks and online sign-in for contact tracing. To help students adapt to the changes on campus, the college created a web page providing updates to campus protocols, important contact information, and links to resources about mental health and ways to stay connected. Campus leadership also participated in a series of videos offering reassurance and helpful tips for taking online classes to students through videos shared on the college’s social media platforms. Throughout the pandemic, partnerships provided the opportunity to offer COVID-19 testing onsite when needed through the Harris County Health Department, along with two vaccination clinics with the help of HEB. “We’re honored that this recognition highlights our commitment to student success and the well-being of our community,” said Dr. Blanson. Lone Star College offers high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 93,000+ students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of

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No vaccines, no employment!

Coronavirus, COVID-19, Featured, Health, News /

In the spirit of the “no shoes, no shirt, no service” policy we have historically seen displayed on many businesses, many employers are making it clear to their vaccine hesitant staff that “no vaccine” can and will equate to “no jobs.” From hospitals, to airlines and, most recently, to the city of Houston, employers are letting staff know that it is imperative to be vaccinated in order to remain on the roster. And despite the pushback and lawsuits, businesses are not budging. The first local hospital system to take a stand was the Houston Methodist system, requiring all of its employees to get vaccinated or face termination.  After that, others followed, including Baylor College of Medicine, recently announcing that faculty and staff were required to be COVID-19 vaccinated by Sept. 15 or face disciplinary action.  Hospital officials said there will be exceptions, however, for certain medical and religious beliefs. As for those helping us to safely fly the friendly skies, Delta Air Lines will charge employees on the company health plan $200 a month if they fail to get vaccinated against COVID-19, a policy the airline’s top executive says is necessary because the average hospital stay for the virus is costing the airline $40,000. CEO Ed Bastian said that all employees who have been hospitalized for the virus in recent weeks were not fully vaccinated. Bastian said that 75% of Delta employees are vaccinated, up from 72% in mid-July. He said the aggressiveness of the leading strain of the virus “means we need to get many more of our people vaccinated, and as close to 100% as possible.” The airline also announced that it also will stop extending pay protection to unvaccinated workers who contract COVID-19 on Sept. 30 and will require unvaccinated workers to be tested weekly beginning Sept. 12, and employees will have to wear masks in all indoor company settings effective immediately. United Airlines will require employees to be vaccinated starting Sept. 27 or face termination. Mayor Sylvester Turner signed this week Executive Order (EO 1-71) COVID-19 Mitigation Safety Measures requiring City of Houston employees to test

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Children, especially younger children, seem to always have a sniffle or runny nose. However, in today’s climate, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Things parents should know sending kids back to school

#NNPA BlackPress, Education, News /

By: Breonna Randall, Howard University News Service For the first time since March 2020, millions of students, pre-kindergarten to high school seniors, will be attending in-person classes. Aside from attending class, they will be also participating in extracurricular activities, like sports, music and clubs. Parents have many concerns and questions. Howard University News Service reached out to five physicians for answers, Dr. Hadie Shariat, pediatrician, Howard University Hospital; Dr. Katherine Hager, Infectious Disease Fellow, Howard University Hospital; Dr. Catherine Marshall, pediatrician at Balboa Pediatrics; Dr. Andrea Goings, pediatrician, Baby Doc House Calls, and Dr. Stacey Eadie, pediatrician at her own private practice, Peds in a Pod. Should I get my child vaccinated?  The unanimous opinion among our doctors was if your child can get vaccinated, they should. The only thing that has proven to be effective so far in fighting COVID-19 is the vaccine, they said. While a tiny fraction of people has died from the vaccine, more than 600,000 have died from the disease. Children under the age of 12 cannot be vaccinated, though pharmaceutical companies are working on a vaccine for them. What if my child is too young for the vaccine? In this case, the doctors advise, your child should stay away from unvaccinated adults, stay away from crowded indoor places, always wear a mask and keep practicing social distancing and good hygiene. Also always remember to keep up with your local safety guidelines. Guidelines and prevalence of coronavirus are different in different cities and states. Residents may need to be more careful in some locales. What kind of mask should my child wear and how many do they need? The readily available blue and white surgical masks are the best option for students of all ages. They will protect your child if they are wearing them properly. The mask should cover their nose and their mouth. If the mask falls to the ground or gets wet either by sneezing into it or from water, they should be discarded, and a new mask put in place. Younger children should carry about a half a dozen surgical masks

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EXCLUSIVE: Rev. Jesse Jackson Speaks About His and Wife’s Covid Diagnosis

#NNPA BlackPress, COVID-19, National, News, NNPA, NNPA Coronavirus Task Force, NNPA Newswire, Stacey M. Brown /

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia NNPA NEWSWIRE — In an exclusive telephone conversation from his hospital bed on Sunday, August 22, the renowned civil rights leader expressed his ongoing support for vaccinations while explaining why his wife, Jacqueline, had not received the vaccine. “I have had both my shots,” Rev. Jackson said in the telephone call from Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “My wife did not receive the vaccine because she has pre-existing conditions that were of concern.” Jackson maintained the importance of vaccination, noting that there are more stringent variants of the coronavirus. While he and his wife remain hospitalized in a Chicago hospital after positive Covid tests, the Rev. Jesse Jackson told the Black Press that he remains vigilant in fighting for freedom, justice, and equality. In an exclusive telephone conversation from his hospital bed on Sunday, August 22, the renowned civil rights leader expressed his ongoing support for vaccinations while explaining why his wife, Jacqueline, had not received the vaccine. “I have had both my shots,” Rev. Jackson said in the telephone call from Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “My wife did not receive the vaccine because she has pre-existing conditions that were of concern.” Jackson maintained the importance of vaccination, noting that there are more stringent variants of the coronavirus. He said he and Jacqueline are receiving the “best of care.” The telephone call came just one day after his organization, the Rainbow Push Coalition, revealed the positive tests and hospitalization. The call included National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., a longtime friend and comrade in the fight for civil rights. Both disciples of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rev. Jackson, and Dr. Chavis expressed concern that some media members would exploit Jackson’s positive tests. Jackson issued a reassurance of his strength. “I’m doing fine,” Rev. Jackson insisted. “My wife is here, and she’s being cared for.” Though he’s battling Parkinson’s disease and now diagnosed with Covid, Rev. Jackson’s voice appeared strong. He said his battle for freedom, justice, and equality would continue. “He’s a fighter, a warrior,” Dr.

EXCLUSIVE: Rev. Jesse Jackson Speaks About His and Wife’s Covid Diagnosis Read More »

In Memoriam: Craig Sebastian Adams, aka “BUD”

Community, Featured, In Memoriam, Local, News /

Our beloved brother Craig Sebastian Adams, aka “BUD,” was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday August 11, 2021 at 5:01 a.m., at the age of 63.  He succumbed with a little over a two-week battle with COVID-19 and sadly, had not been vaccinated.  Craig was the healthiest one of us all, but the Delta variant overwhelmed him, and God saw fit to make him the voice for this pandemic that has ravaged our nation for well over a year or so now. Craig was born at St. Elizabeth Hospital on November 9,1957 to Earl Felix and Mary Electa (Skipper) Adams, who preceded him in death, as well as his brothers, Louis Everett (2012), Michael Elliott (1980), Christopher Robert (2010) and Kenneth Bernard (1974), as well as our dear sister-in-law Alice Potts Adams (2020). He was baptized and raised as a faithful servant to the Lord for 60 years at St. Monica Catholic Church in Acreage Home (44), where he served as an Altar Server, Eucharistic Minister, lecturer, usher, a member of the Altar Society, St. Vincent de Paul, Knights of Peter Claver (151), chairman of the Bazaar Committee, CCE (Sunday School) teacher and many others. He leaves to celebrate and remember his life 13 siblings; Earl II (Ebonny), Frederick, Patrick, Adrian (Athena), Timothy (Jewell), Clifford (Marilyn), Leah, Phillippa (Rodney), Clement (Sonia), Gerald, (Briggitte), Regina, Magdalena (Dena), Lillia (Kimm) and sister- in-law Joyce (Louis deceased). Craig ‘s life of education began when he attended A.B. Anderson Elementary, until he was placed in 5th grade at St. Rose of Lima in an “Empty Seat Program,” along with six of his other siblings, with the younger ones to follow. He then attended Northwest Jr. High (aka Seton/Assumption) and went on to graduate at St. Pius X High School “Class of 76” with Honors, alongside his brother Clifford. Craig was humble, kind, knowledgeable and full of talent. As a teenager, he worked at McDonalds aka “Mickey D’s,” alongside at least one of the many siblings that followed him and brought home his paycheck to the “Bank of MESA (Mary Electa Skipper

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America’s Booster Shots Draws Criticism from Some World Leaders

Coronavirus, COVID-19, Government, Health, NNPA, World /

By: Stacy M. Brown Poorer countries – including many in Africa – have little access to vaccines, and America should provide doses to those nations. The announcement by the Biden-Harris administration to begin providing booster shots to combat Covid-19 has drawn the ire of the world community. The World Health Organization (WHO) responded to the announcement that the doses – the third shot for those who received either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines – immoral and unconscionable. “We’re planning to hand out extra life jackets to people who already have life jackets, while we’re leaving other people to drown without a single life jacket,” Dr. Michael Ryan, the emergencies chief at WHO, remarked. The organization said poorer countries – including many in Africa – have little access to vaccines, and America should provide doses to those nations. “If none of us are safe until all of us are safe, why are we talking about booster shots while less than 2 percent of Africa’s population is fully vaccinated?” tweeted Ahmed Ali, a researcher, and advocate of evidence-based policies. Global data shows that 32 percent of the world’s population has received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, and 24 percent are fully vaccinated. Approximately 4.84 billion doses have been administered globally, and 34.95 million are now provided each day. The data shows that just 1.3 percent of individuals in low-income countries have received at least one dose. In the United States, health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 189.9 million people – or 57 percent of the total population – have received at least one dose. Approximately 163.9 million people – or 49 percent of the U.S. population – are fully vaccinated. “Some richer countries hoard vaccines,” asserted Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the regional director of Africa for the WHO. “They make a mockery of vaccine equity,” Dr. Moeti insisted. U.S. officials countered that while the country plans to administer 100 million booster shots by the end of the year, America will distribute 200 million more vaccines globally. President Biden noted that America already had shipped abroad 600

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COVID Vaccine Booster Shots Will Start in September

Coronavirus, COVID-19, Health, National, NNPA /

By: Stacy M. Brown “We are prepared to offer booster shots for all Americans beginning the week of September 20 and starting eight months after an individual’s second dose,” the officials wrote. Top health officials and medical experts joined on Wednesday, August 18, to announce that booster shots of the Covid-19 vaccine will be available beginning on September 20. The officials said the boosters are still pending authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Dr. Anthony Fauci, and COVID Health Equity Task Force Chair Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith counted among the experts and officials to issue a news release about the additional shots. “We are prepared to offer booster shots for all Americans beginning the week of September 20 and starting eight months after an individual’s second dose,” the officials wrote. “At that time, the individuals who were fully vaccinated earliest in the vaccination rollout, including many health care providers, nursing home residents, and other seniors, will likely be eligible for a booster.” The statement continued: “We would also begin efforts to deliver booster shots directly to residents of long-term care facilities at that time, given the distribution of vaccines to this population early in the vaccine rollout and the continued increased risk that COVID-19 poses to them.” The announcement arrives as the virus continues a rapid spread throughout the country, with hotspots identified in Florida, Mississippi, Texas, Oregon, and other states. The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it plans to send a trailer mortgage to San Antonio, Texas because bodies are beginning to pile there. In South Carolina, the Pickens County School District closed schools and converted to remote learning after a dramatic Covid outbreak. During the first week of school in El Paso, Texas, health officials reported 309 actives Covid cases in children. That number rose the second week to 373, and ultimately it climbed this week to 501. Vaccines still have not been authorized for children under 12. Authorized Covid-19 vaccines are “remarkably effective in reducing the risk

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Blacks urged to put fears aside and get COVID vaccinations

Family, Featured, Health, Local, National, News, Texas /

Just in case you need any more proof that COVID is indeed REAL and should be taken seriously, this week, the Houston area’s Memorial Hermann Hospital system re-implemented a policy stating that visitors will no longer be allowed at any of its facilities.  Why? Because of fear of exposure to the rapidly spreading, highly transmissible Delta variant.

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WATCH: Michelle Obama encourages Americans to get vaccinated

Coronavirus, COVID-19, Health, National, News, Video /

Former first lady — and many people’s “forever” first lady, Michelle Obama is encouraging Americans to get vaccinated.  The coronavirus is still out there, and in order to fight it, we all need to continue following the Centers for Disease Control’s safety guidelines regarding proper hygiene, social distancing and wearing masks (if you are not vaccinated), but the best protection for everyone is to get their COVID-19 shots. In order to return to normal, we all must do our parts. From Mrs. Obama: “Hey everyone it’s Michelle Obama, and I wanted to let you know that Barack and I couldn’t be more thrilled that we got our Covid-19 vaccine. This is a deadly disease, and we know the vaccine will protect us from getting really sick. It’s how we’ll start getting back to seeing friends and family and doing all those things we love again. So I hope you’ll join me, Barack and millions of others around the country and get your vaccine as soon as it’s available to you. It’s safe, it’s free, and it could save your life or the life of someone you love. To learn more just go to CDC.gov/coronavirus. “I know it’s been a long, hard year, but we can beat back this pandemic. With your help, we can do this.” Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

WATCH: Michelle Obama encourages Americans to get vaccinated Read More »

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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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