Tag: trending

  • What Happened to Jade McKissic?

    The University of Houston community is grieving. They are mourning the tragic discovery of Jade “Sage” Elise McKissic. She was a 20-year-old University of Houston student. Her body was found in Brays Bayou. Her death has raised many questions. Friends, family, and classmates are mourning the loss of a young woman who was active, kind, and full of potential.

    Who Was Jade McKissic?

    Jade McKissic was a junior at the University of Houston. She studied Strategic Communications and Advertising in the Honors College. She was well known on campus for being active in student life. She served as an orientation guide. She worked as a front desk assistant. She also helped manage social media for different student groups.

    Friends and classmates described her as thoughtful, encouraging, and creative. She was the type of person who lifted others up and made them feel welcome. Many who knew her remember her smile and her willingness to help others succeed.

    Posted on IG page @houstontips on 9/17/2025

    What Happened to Jade?

    Jade was last seen on September 11, 2025. She was leaving a restaurant called LA Burgers and Daiquiris near MacGregor Way in Houston. She was reported missing three days later on September 14 when no one had heard from her. On September 15, Houston Police recovered her body from Brays Bayou. This location is near Spur 5 and not far from the University of Houston campus. On September 18, the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences confirmed her identity. At this time, the cause of death has not been released. The medical examiner is still working on the case; as of 9/19/2025 at 11:57am CST, the case status is pending. Houston Police have said there is no confirmed sign of foul play, but the investigation is ongoing.

    Source: KPRC Click 2 Houston evening newscast
    Update with surveillance footage

    Concerns About Safety

    Jade’s death has shaken the University of Houston community. Some student groups have raised concerns about campus safety. They point out the need for better lighting. More transportation options are necessary. Faster communication is essential when students go missing. The group Deeds Not Words at UH was especially vocal. They said the university could have responded faster. The university could have done more to protect students. University officials have since offered support services for students and staff who are grieving.

    Jade’s case is especially alarming because she is not the only one found in Houston’s waterways. In the same week, at least four bodies were recovered from bayous around the city. This brings the total to 13 bodies found in Houston Bayous this year. While police say these cases are not connected, it has made many residents more concerned about safety in the area.

    Remembering Jade

    Jade McKissic is remembered as much more than a headline. She was a bright student, a loyal friend, and a leader who touched many lives in her short time. From Spring ISD, where she graduated, to the University of Houston, her impact is being felt deeply.

    The loss of Jade McKissic is heartbreaking for her family, friends, and classmates. The investigation is ongoing. Her story reminds us how valuable every life is. It is important for communities and schools to take student safety seriously.

  • The Truth About STD Rates in Houston

    THE STD AND HIV RATE IN HOUSTON IS AS HIGH AS RENT RIGHT NOW!

    Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV and AIDS, remain a major health concern in Houston. Harris County consistently reports rates higher than the Texas and national averages. This article breaks down the facts in simple, clear language. We are busting myths and dropping strong stats.

    How Bad Is the STD Situation in Houston?

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health reports, Houston ranks among the top U.S. cities for STD rates. Harris County, which includes Houston, has consistently reported:

    • Chlamydia: Over 40,000 cases reported in 2022.
    • Gonorrhea: Over 14,000 cases in 2022.
    • Syphilis: Around 3,000 cases reported in 2022, with sharp increases in congenital syphilis (passed from mother to baby).
    • HIV: Nearly 739 new diagnoses in 2022, higher than most Texas counties.

    For comparison, the rate of chlamydia in Houston is about 1.5 times higher than the Texas state average. The rate of gonorrhea is almost double the national average.

    📊 Up-to-Date HIV & AIDS Numbers in Houston

    According to the Houston Eligible Metropolitan Area data for 2022:

    • 1,413 new HIV diagnoses were reported in the Houston area in 2022. This is a 5% increase from 2021. Of these diagnoses, 90% were residents of Houston/Harris County.
    • 1,277 of these diagnoses were confirmed in Harris County specifically—that is a rate of 26.4 new HIV cases per 100,000 people
    • There were 287 new AIDS diagnoses (stage-3 HIV) in 2022 in Harris County, a rate of 5.9 per 100,000
    • By the end of 2022, approximately 33,397 people were living with HIV (PLWH) in the Houston EMA—about 30,425 of them in Harris County, with a prevalence rate of 630 per 100,000 residents
    • In comparison, the national rate of new HIV diagnoses is around 13 per 100,000, so Houston/Harris County has more than double that rate
    • Source: Houston Health Department’s 2024 Epidemiologic Supplement for HIV Prevention and Care Services Planning Report

    Note: the current population in Houston is 2.39 million as of 2024.

    Here’s a heat-map-style image showing ZIP codes in Harris County (Houston) with the highest rates of HIV and other STIs. Darker areas highlight neighborhoods like 77002 (Downtown), 77006 (Montrose), 77021 (Southeast Houston), and 77026 (Kashmere Gardens)—regions with the most elevated infection rates. Source: KPRC Click2Houston

    Why Are Rates Rising?

    Several reasons contribute to Houston’s high STD rates:

    • Lack of regular testing – Many people don’t know they are infected. During COVID, many people missed checkups, so infections went undetected.
    • Stigma and fear – Some avoid clinics because they are embarrassed.
    • Limited access to healthcare – Not everyone has affordable care.
    • Rapid population growth – More people, more risk of spread.

    🔍 What Are Common Myths About HIV & STDs?

    Myth #1: “HIV is always obvious or shows early symptoms.”
    👉 In reality, many people living with HIV don’t feel or look sick for years.

    Myth #2: “Only certain races or groups get HIV.”
    👉 Everyone is at risk. In Houston, Hispanic/Latinx and Black communities are most affected, but HIV impacts all groups

    Myth #3: “Getting tested is embarrassing or unnecessary.”
    👉 Testing is confidential, often free, and the best way to find infection early—even before you have symptoms.

    Myth #4: “If I take PrEP, I don’t need to worry.”
    👉 PrEP helps prevent HIV but doesn’t protect against other STDs like syphilis or chlamydia. Regular testing is still important.

    ✅ Prevention & Public Health Efforts

    • Free or low-cost testing available through Houston Health Department, Harris County Public Health, and Legacy Community Health.
    • Mobile clinics and outreach in high-risk ZIP codes (e.g. Sunnyside, Fifth Ward, South Park) help reach underserved communities
    • Services offered include PrEP, DoxyPEP, Rapid Start ART, and prenatal HIV care (risk of mother-to-child transmission reduced to under 1%
    • Rates of care retention and viral suppression: Under 77% of HIV-positive people receive some care, 55% stay in care, and 62% achieve viral suppression (undetectable and can’t pass to another person)

    Final Takeaway

    Houston has twice the U.S. average rate of new HIV diagnoses. Please get tested regularly, use protection, and know your options for treatment and prevention so you can stay safe. Stop playing with your lives out here.

    🗣️📢BRING BACK SEX EDUCATION SINCE WE ARE BRINGING BACK THE BIBLE INTO SCHOOLS!

    Watch this video below FOR AWARENESS.

    Check out this video compilation of TikTok videos about Houston’s STD problem from YouTube channel @whatitlooklike_tv
  • The Tragic Story of Romeca Meeks: A Community Seeks Justice

    Romeca Meeks-Blackmon, a 31-year-old mother, was shot in the face and killed on Monday morning, September 8, 2025, in Chicago’s South Loop area near State Street and Cermak (South State Street near Serach Road) while dropping off her son at school. She was taken to Stroger Hospital but did not survive.

    Following the shooting, the suspect—Quadajah “Holly” Johnson—was arrested and held by Chicago police. However, as of reports published September 12–13, 2025, prosecutors announced that Johnson has been released without any charges filed.

    Romeca’s mother, Tina McMiller, has publicly demanded justice and called for stricter measures against domestic violence. She joined local leaders near the scene of the shooting and urged enforcement of Illinois House Bill 158, which treats violence as a public health crisis. A vigil was held outside Englewood STEM High School (or nearby), where hundreds of balloons were released in memory of Romeca, and her family described her as a kind, loving person who cared deeply for her child.

    Romeca’s young son is now being cared for by his grandmother. He is still trying to understand the loss of his mother.

    Many reports highlight that Romeca shared a child with a man named Carlos (sometimes referred to as Carlos Losos Way), who was present during the altercation. There are differing accounts about what triggered the confrontation. Some say Romeca had a restraining order against Carlos, and the relationship was unstable. Others—including people close to Carlos and Holly—claim Romeca may have harassed Holly, destroyed property, and initiated the fight on the day of the shooting.

    Witnesses reported that a physical struggle broke out. They allege Carlos held Romeca in a headlock, while Holly retrieved a firearm from their vehicle and shot Romeca in the face. Holly later told police she feared for her life, citing her concealed-carry license and claiming self-defense.

    Ultimately, no charges were brought against either Johnson (“Holly”) or Carlos. Police have labeled the shooting “domestic in nature,” but the exact sequence of events are still debated.

    The most heart-wrenching part of this story was the note she wrote for her son. She wrote it on the first day of school and put it in his lunch bag. As a mom, that messed me up a little. Was she expecting something bad to happen?

    What should have been a normal start to her day turned into a nightmare her child will never forget. Romeca wrote one last note to her child.

    I started thinking the other day. Most BW on BW (Black Woman on Black Woman) violence stems from either jealousy or a man. This happens whether you’re trying to impress him or keep him. Its sad because once again, kids will be missing a mother. Do you even care about your kids at all???

  • America Is in the Toilet and I Want the African American Aliens to Beam Me Up

    America’s losing it right now. From school shootings to false alarms on campuses, every day feels like another blow. Rising unemployment adds to the constant school bullying. Unsafe school settings contribute to this daily impact. Honestly? I’m like, “Beam me up, my 🥷🏾👽,” because this mess is too heavy.

    School Shootings and Fear in Classrooms

    School shootings and lockdowns are becoming the norm. Students walk into buildings filled with anxiety, not hope. Every day looks like a potential headline. Yesterday at Evergreen High School near Denver, a 16-year-old named Desmond Holly, reportedly radicalized by some extremist network, opened fire with a revolver around lunch. Then today, UMass Boston went on full lockdown. Reports of gunfire near East Residence Hall and the Kennedy Institute sent students fleeing, hiding, not opening doors—even though nothing was ever found. A false alarm, but trauma is real and so is the reminder: our campuses are always just a whisper away from real danger.

    😒 Charlie Kirk—No Love, But Sorry for the Family

    Charlie Kirk, conservative activist, was assassinated at an event in Utah—yeah, it sucks and obviously my heart goes out to his family. But me? I’m not sad about him. He frequently said some nasty things about Black women. So listen—I don’t care for the guy. Sorry, not sorry. He’s gone, and his death happened in a way that echoes the issues he criticized—but he didn’t support people like me. So it’s a hard pass for me emotionally here.

    📉 Black Women Unemployment Is Soaring

    Black women’s unemployment has spiked to around 6% in August 2025—up from about 5.4% in January, and double the rate for white women. Between May and August alone, nearly 300,000 Black women either lost or exited jobs. Many of the hardest hits were federal jobs cut under Trump’s administration. This isn’t just numbers. It’s Black moms losing stability and support. They are trying to raise kids in dangerous schools. They are fighting to protect their kids and holding families together.

    🙅🏾‍♀️Bullying Among Girls Is Exploding

    Bullying among girls has hit alarming levels—especially online. According to recent data, adolescent girls are more likely than boys (59.2% vs 49.5%) to experience cyberbullying—and over 28% were bullied in the past month alone. Girls report appearance-based body shaming at rates of 72% in 2025. Social exclusion, rumor spreading, and humiliation on Instagram dominate the landscape. These behaviors appear weekly in 37% of middle schools and 25% of high schools. Even worse, among Black teens 21% report bullying because of their race. Black girl victims face high rates of damaging online exposure. They also experience emotional harm. No lie, I must put some blame on Baddies. The Baddie culture of fighting and getting expensive wigs pulled off heads has ran its course. Plot twist: GROWN WOMEN WITH CHILDREN PARTAKE IN CYBERBULLYING AS WELL.

    Teachers Bail Out; AI Steps In

    Teacher shortages are off the charts. Over 411,000 positions are either empty or filled by uncertified staff. This situation affects 1 in 8 classrooms nationwide. Local breakdowns show even deeper trouble: in Houston ISD, 32% of teachers left last year, nearly double the state average. Teachers report burnout, low pay, chaos—even though fewer teachers say they’re leaving, stress levels remain sky high. While human teachers exit, schools are experimenting with AI lesson plans and virtual “teachers.” But AI can’t comfort kids, see bullying hiding behind smiles, or teach empathy. It’s education by default—and our children are losing.

    🏚️ The Rent Is Too Damn High

    And then there’s housing. Rent is out of control. Landlords and big apartment companies tack on random fees. These include parking fees, trash fees, “amenity” fees, pest control, and insurance. They add things that weren’t even on the lease. You either pay it, move out, or risk homelessness. Having a job is one thing, but jobs don’t stretch when rent takes half your paycheck. Add food, light bill, internet, gas, childcare, and you’re stuck in a depressing cycle. Save money? How? And if you’re working two jobs, when do you see your kids? When do you rest? Families are being priced out of living with dignity, forced to choose between shelter and sanity. And honestly, that cycle breaks people.

    America may be in the toilet, but we still deserve dignity, safety, jobs, and respect. Beam me up? Maybe. I’m ready to take my kid out of school. I want to move to the country and homeschool her. We can live happily and safely ever after.

  • Whites-Only Town in Arkansas Sparks Outrage Online

    A new community in Arkansas is getting a lot of attention and anger on social media. The private association behind it calls itself Return to the Land (RTTL). They say they want a place just for people with “European ancestry” who share traditional values. This town is located in the Ozark hills of Arkansas, and about 40 people already live there on 160 acres of land. The group has even said they want to expand into other states like Missouri.

    Why People Are Upset

    The idea of a “whites-only” town has caused major backlash. People on social media are calling the plan racist and a step backward to old segregation laws. Civil rights groups like the Anti-Defamation League are warning that this could break housing discrimination laws. Even the Arkansas Attorney General, Tim Griffin, is looking into what this group is doing. Many people believe this is a return to the days of Jim Crow and that it sends a dangerous message about race and equality.

    Other Talk About “White Towns”

    This Arkansas community is the most organized example of a whites-only place in recent years. Online, there are some other groups and individuals talking about starting similar towns to “preserve white culture.” Most of these are just conversations on the internet and haven’t turned into real communities yet. Currently there are:

    • Arkansas Ozarks Community I, II, III (The Ozarks) founded in 2023 with 150 acres and is expanded
    • Deep South Community I (covering LA-MS-AL-GA-FL-NC-SC) in initial planning process
    • Appalachian Community I and II (Appalachian region–MS-AL-TN-GA-NC-SC-VA-KY-WV-OH-PA-MD-NY)

    Harrison, Arkansas has a Racist Past

    Harrison, Arkansas, a city nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, carries a deeply troubled and well-documented history of racism. Years ago, it was known as a “sundown town,” a place where Black people were not welcome.

    The 1905 riot was triggered by allegations of a Black man assaulting a white woman. A white mob responded by driving out many Black residents through intimidation and violence. The second, and more definitive, riot occurred in 1909, again sparked by a criminal accusation against a Black man. In the aftermath, the remaining Black families were forced to flee, their property often sold for a fraction of its value or outright stolen.

    Harrison later became associated with the Ku Klux Klan. While the Klan’s presence has fluctuated over the years, the area has been home to prominent figures in the white supremacist movement. The national headquarters of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, led by Thom Robb, is located in the nearby town of Zinc, and a Harrison post office box has been used for the organization’s mail.

    In the 2010s, there were big billboards in the town with messages like “Anti-Racist is a Code Word for Anti-White” and other hateful phrases. Some of these were tied to the KKK. In recent years, local leaders have tried to change the town’s image. A Community Task Force on Race Relations was started in 2003 to help, and some hateful signs have been removed. But the reputation still lingers.

    What the Law Says

    The United States has strong laws against housing discrimination. The main one is the Fair Housing Act, passed in 1968 during the Civil Rights Movement. This law makes it illegal to deny someone housing because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. That means a neighborhood, apartment complex, or community cannot legally say “only white people can live here.”

    Even if a group tries to call it a private membership club, it usually doesn’t work if people live there or buy property. When housing is involved, the law still applies. In simple terms: if you sell or rent homes or land, you cannot make rules that exclude people based on race.

    The U.S. Constitution also guarantees equal protection under the law, which means the government cannot allow racial segregation to happen openly. If the Return to the Land group is found to be breaking these rules, they could face lawsuits, fines, or even be shut down.

    Why It Matters

    A town that only allows white residents is more than just a private decision—it affects society. Critics say these communities encourage racism, keep people divided, and hurt efforts to build trust among different races. I, personally as a Black American woman, am curious to see how they will do. Everyone has a right to live where they feel comfortable. If only I could get 10 acres of land, move my family and good friends into land ownership, and live happily ever after. I remember a group in Georgia tried this and…

    Freedom, Georgia

    I do find it funny that this “private association” has the name “Return to the Land”, yet must have European descent…is the land you’re returning to in Europe? Because this land belonged to others before you. It doesn’t matter. Get you land, white man! So, if you are White and interested in preserving white culture, they have an interest meeting coming up.

  • Texas High School Stabbing: Case Updates on Austin Metcalf and Karmelo Anthony

    UPDATE: Karmelo Anthony’s bond has been reduced to $250,000. (10:20AM at 4.14.2025)

    The fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Texas high school track meet has sparked nationwide attention. It has led to legal debates and emotional reactions. Here’s the latest on the case involving suspect Karmelo Anthony, including updates on his bond hearing and ongoing developments.

    Case Background

    On April 2, 2025, a dispute over seating under a team tent at a Frisco ISD track meet turned deadly. Austin Metcalf, a Memorial High School athlete, asked Karmelo Anthony, a Centennial High School student, to leave the tent. Witnesses reported that Anthony gave a warning. He said, “Touch me and see what happens.” Anthony then allegedly stabbed Metcalf once in the chest with a knife from his backpack.

    Anthony claims self-defense. He immediately confessed to police, saying, “I’m not alleged, I did it.” He asked if the stabbing could be considered self-defense. Metcalf died in his twin brother Hunter’s arms minutes later.

    Bond Hearing and Legal Status

    Anthony remains in Collin County Jail on a $1 million bond. His defense team argues the amount is excessive and plans to request a reduction at a hearing on April 14. Collin County DA Greg Willis confirmed Anthony will not face the death penalty if convicted. This decision is due to Supreme Court rulings. The rulings bar executions for crimes committed by minors. Anthony’s lawyers emphasize his right to a fair trial. They claim the public should withhold judgment until all evidence is reviewed. (They already made a judgment in the court of public opinion sadly.)

    Fundraising Efforts

    A GiveSendGo fundraiser for Anthony’s legal fees has raised nearly $400,000, sparking backlash. The family denies involvement with deleted GoFundMe campaigns and calls circulated narratives â€œfalse and harmful”. on the other side, a GoFundMe for Austin’s memorial and family expenses surpassed $316,000. His father described him as a â€œleader with a 4.0 GPA” and football MVP.

    What’s Next?

    From the Collin County Judicial Online Case Search

    There will be a Bond Reduction Hearing on Monday, April 14th. Judge Angela Tucker will review Anthony’s $1 million bond. His attorney, Mike Howard, argues Karmelo Anthony is not a flight risk. Police are still interviewing witnesses and combating misinformation, including fake social media posts about the stabbing. No trial date is set, but the DA hopes to keep the case in Collin County.

    Community Impact

    The tragedy has divided opinions, with some calling for empathy and others demanding accountability. Conversations about race? Of course. As the legal process unfolds, both families grieve, and the nation watches closely. Updates will follow as new details emerge.

    BOTH parties were GOOD students AND athletes. Let’s not paint Karmelo Anthony out to be the bad guy until we have heard witnesses and seen evidence. I am sure there is a video around here because teenagers record EVERYTHING!

    For further details, refer to sources linked in ABC NewsCBS Texas, and FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth.

  • Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s ‘Luther’: A Record-Breaking R&B Hit

    Kendrick Lamar and SZA just dropped a romantic bombshell with their new music video for “Luther,” and the numbers are wild. Not only did the visual rack up 5.3 million YouTube views in its first 24 hours—making it the fastest R&B song to hit that milestone in 2025—but it also crushed Drake’s “Nokia” video, which managed 2.1 million views in its debut week. Let’s break down why this collab is dominating the charts and the conversation.

    By the Numbers: “Luther” vs. “Nokia”

    • 7-Hour Smash: Within just 7 hours of release, “Luther” hit 2.3 million views, overtaking Drake’s “Nokia” (2.1M) to become the 5th biggest YouTube debut for a hip-hop artist this year.
    • 24-Hour Reign: By the end of Day 1, the video soared to 5.3 million views, securing the #1 trending spot on YouTube and setting a new record for R&B tracks in 2025.
    • Chart Domination: The song itself isn’t new—it’s been ruling the Billboard Hot 100 for 7 consecutive weeks, thanks partly to Kendrick and SZA’s show-stopping Super Bowl halftime performance.

    Meanwhile, Drake stans are left scrambling as Kendrick quietly flexes his viral power. Fans online are split, with one user joking, â€œDrake’s gonna blame bots for this”, while others praise Kendrick’s “authentic” approach to drops: no ads, no countdowns—just a random Friday surprise.

    Inside the “Luther” Video: Love, Architecture, and a Drake Jab?

    Directed by Karena Evans (known for Drake’s â€œIn My Feelings” and â€œGod’s Plan”), the video is a moody, romantic masterpiece. Here’s the vibe:

    • Two Love Stories: Kendrick and SZA are shown with separate love interests—a rare choice that avoids clichĂŠs. SZA struts through brutalist hallways, while Kendrick rolls up in a vintage Buick GNX, draped in red cloth.
    • Nostalgic Samples: The track samples Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s 1980s classic â€œIf This World Were Mine,” which plays in full at the video’s end—a nod to the song’s soulful roots.
    • Subtle Shade?: Hiring Evans, Drake’s frequent collaborator, feels like a cheeky power move amid their ongoing feud. Kendrick’s team hasn’t commented, but fans called it â€œmind games”.

    The visuals mix bold colors and black-and-white scenes, capturing quiet, intimate moments—like SZA smoking outside a building while Kendrick dances in an empty room. It’s less flashy, more feelings. I also noticed that the location of this video was the same place where the GNX Teaser (or what we fans call the sample ‘Bodies’ was filmed).

    Why “Luther” Can’t Lose

    The track’s success is no accident. It’s the crown jewel of Kendrick’s surprise 2024 album GNX, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and spawned 12 Hot 100 entries (5 in the top 10). Add SZA’s silky vocals and a timeless sample, and you’ve got a recipe for a record-breaker.

    And the timing? Perfect. The video dropped just 8 days before their joint Grand National Tour kicks off in Minneapolis (April 19), with stops in Atlanta, L.A., and Europe. Expect “Luther” to stay on repeat—both online and onstage.

    Final Take

    Kendrick and SZA didn’t just drop a video—they dropped a statement. While Drake’s “Nokia” had its moment, “Luther” proves that organic buzz, raw talent, and a touch of rivalry can’t be beat. As one fan put it: â€œKendrick doesn’t chase numbers; the numbers chase him”.

    Catch the “Luther” video on YouTube—and stay tuned for more sparks when the Grand National Tour hits your city.

  • KP George: Fort Bend Money Laundering Charges Explained

    Fort Bend County Judge Kyle Persad (KP) George, a well-known Democratic leader in Texas, is facing serious legal trouble. He has been charged with two counts of money laundering. This felony could land him in prison for up to 10 years per charge if convicted. 

    Fort Bend County Judge KP George mugshot, April 2025

    The Charges

    Judge George is accused of laundering a sum between $30,000 and $150,000. This occurred between January and April 2019. This was shortly after he first took office as county judge. Prosecutors claim he hid money linked to illegal activity and falsified campaign finance reports to cover it up. He turned himself in on April 4th and was released on a $20,000 bond (10,000 per charge). These charges are separate from an earlier case. In that case, George was accused of allowing his former chief of staff. Taral Patel created fake social media accounts. These accounts were used to post racist comments during his 2022 reelection campaign. Patel faces felony online impersonation charges, and George was previously charged with a misdemeanor for identity misrepresentation in that scheme.

    George’s Response

    George has denied wrongdoing, calling the charges a â€œpolitical witch hunt” by the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. In a statement, he claimed his actions are legal. He argues that loaning his own money to his campaign and then repaying it later is allowed. This is permitted as long as it’s properly documented. In a fiery statement, he accused prosecutors of twisting facts to damage his reputation. However, Texas law requires strict transparency in campaign finances, and prosecutors allege George broke these rules. They haven’t yet shared specific evidence, leaving many questions unanswered.

    Political Fallout

    The case has sparked strong reactions across the Texas political scene. The Fort Bend County Democratic Party once supported Judge George. Now, they are urging him to step down. They cite a betrayal of public trust. Party Chairman Fred Taylor criticized George’s “victim mentality.” He criticized George’s attacks on the District Attorney’s office. Taylor argued that this behavior undermines confidence in local government. Meanwhile, County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy described the charges as “deeply troubling.” He emphasized the importance of keeping the county’s operations running smoothly despite the controversy. On the other hand, Republicans have largely remained silent. Rumors suggest George might consider switching parties ahead of his potential 2026 reelection campaign. This adds another layer of intrigue to the situation.

    What’s Next?

    George’s trial will take place in the 458th District Court, separate from his pending misdemeanor case. Looking ahead, several critical questions remain unanswered. First, prosecutors will need to prove that George intentionally violated campaign finance laws. This task requires clear evidence of wrongdoing. Second, the ongoing legal battle could disrupt county operations, as the case may distract from important governance issues. If convicted, George would face prison time. He would also automatically lose his position as county judge under Texas law. This would effectively end his political career. The outcome of this trial could reshape Fort Bend County’s political landscape for years to come.

    Here’s a local news story from Fox26Houston.

  • Black TikTokers Urge Sit Out for April 5th Protests

    On April 5, 2025, large protests called the “Hands Off! National Day of Action” took place across the U.S. People rallied against policies linked to former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. They focused on issues like cuts to Social Security, threats to democracy, and unfair tax benefits for the wealthy. Organized by groups like the Human Rights Campaign, the goal was to pressure lawmakers to stop these policies.

    Why TikTok Warned Black People to “Sit Yo Black Ass Down”

    A viral TikTok trend urged Black Americans to avoid the protests, sparking widespread discussion. Many Black creators raised concerns about safety. They pointed to Trump’s history of threatening to use the military or National Guard to control protests. They worried this would lead to violence or even martial law. Others highlighted the long history of Black protesters facing harsher treatment. Police or counter-protesters treat them more severely compared to other groups.

    Critics also argued that the protests centered issues that mattered more to ‘white liberals.’ These issues included tax cuts for the wealthy. The protests did not focus (or include) on urgent priorities for Black communities, like police violence or systemic racism. Some felt Black voices were being used to support causes that didn’t tackle their specific struggles. To spread their message, Black TikTokers used humor and creativity.

    Be sure to subscribe to @PeaceOfMind-LAPC on Youtube!

    Behind the jokes, though, was a serious call to focus on safer actions with greater impact. Many suggested supporting Black-owned businesses. They also recommended practicing self-care to cope with political (or everyday) stress. Others advocated organizing locally around issues that directly affect their communities. Common folk like me will just stay home, be with the family, and hop on the video game.

    Did People Listen?

    While the April 5th protests drew crowds in cities like New York and Washington, D.C., many Black activists chose to stay home. The TikTok movement revealed a divide in how people view activism. Some still believe mass protests are powerful tools for change. Others argue that marginalized groups, like Black Americans, need to prioritize safety. They should adopt strategies that directly benefit their communities. May I remind you that WE Black people went to the polls? We constantly educated ourselves about this administration. Yet, we still got fade? Yep, we are sitting this one out.

    The TikTok-driven April 5th Protest reflects a growing sentiment among Black communities. It shows that participation in activism doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Whether through protests, mutual aid, or rest, the goal remains fighting systemic inequities while safeguarding mental and physical well-being.

    Watch this live feed. Not a speck of us out there. Someone even shouted “Black Lives Matter” but that someone didn’t look like me.

  • Girl Scout Cookies and Metal Concerns: What You Need to Know

    Girl Scout cookies are a beloved treat many of us look forward to every year. But recently, reports have surfaced about some cookies possibly containing metals like lead or cadmium. Let’s break down what’s going on in simple terms.

    What’s the Issue?
    A study (or news report) claimed that certain Girl Scout cookies tested positive for small amounts of heavy metals. These metals, like lead or cadmium, can be harmful if consumed in large amounts over time. The concern is that even tiny traces in food might add up, especially for kids.

    How Do Metals Get Into Cookies?
    Metals like lead and cadmium aren’t added on purpose. They often come from the environment, like soil or water used to grow ingredients (e.g., cocoa, wheat). Factories that make the cookies might also accidentally introduce metals during processing.

    Are the Cookies Safe to Eat?
    The Girl Scouts organization and cookie manufacturers say their products meet strict safety standards. They follow rules set by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), which limits how much metal is allowed in food. The amounts found in cookies are likely very small and within “safe” limits. Still, some parents and experts worry about long-term exposure, especially for children.

    What Are the Risks?
    Heavy metals can cause health problems if consumed in high doses over years. This can lead to kidney issues. It can also cause developmental delays in kids. But experts stress that the tiny amounts in cookies alone probably won’t hurt you. The real risk comes from all sources of metals in your diet. These include rice, veggies, or drinking water. It’s not just cookies.

    What Should You Do?

    1. Don’t Panic: Occasional cookie treats are unlikely to cause harm.
    2. Moderation: Limit how many cookies kids (or adults) eat in one sitting.
    3. Check Updates: Look for official statements from the Girl Scouts or the FDA.
    4. Contact the Seller: If you’re worried, ask your local Girl Scout troop or cookie supplier for more info.

    Girl Scouts’ Response
    The Girl Scouts take safety seriously. They work with bakers to ensure cookies meet FDA guidelines. They also remind supporters that cookie sales fund important programs for girls, like STEM projects and leadership camps.

    The Bottom Line
    Girl Scout cookies are still a fun tradition, but it’s good to stay informed. While the metal reports sound scary, the risk is low unless someone eats huge amounts regularly. If you’re concerned, focus on balancing treats with a varied diet and keeping up with official updates.

    What do you think? Would this change your cookie-buying habits? Share your thoughts below!