77.7 F
Houston
Friday, May 2, 2025

Home Blog Page 195

Renowned Dragon Ball Z Creator Akira Toriyama Passes Away at 68

Acclaimed Japanese manga artist Akira Toriyama, best known for his groundbreaking creation “Dragon Ball,” passed away on March 1 due to complications from an acute subdural hematoma. Toriyama’s death was confirmed by the official “Dragon Ball” website, which issued a statement expressing deep regret and honoring the creator’s remarkable contributions to the world of manga.

In the statement released by Bird Studio, which oversees Toriyama’s works, it was lamented that the artist had several ongoing projects that he was passionately involved in. The studio expressed gratitude for the support Toriyama received over his illustrious 45-year career and hoped that his unique creative legacy would continue to be cherished by fans worldwide.

Toriyama rose to prominence in the late 1970s with his hit series “Dr. Slump,” which garnered critical acclaim and won the prestigious Shogakukan Manga Award in 1981. However, it was with the introduction of “Dragon Ball” in 1984 that Toriyama achieved global recognition and solidified his status as a manga icon. “Dragon Ball” went on to become one of the best-selling manga series of all time, revolutionizing the genre and captivating audiences worldwide with its captivating storytelling and dynamic characters.

Despite his monumental success with “Dragon Ball,” Toriyama’s artistic contributions extended beyond the beloved franchise. He lent his talent to various one-shot manga projects and collaborated on character designs for renowned video game titles such as “Chrono Trigger” and the “Dragon Quest” series.

In the 2010s, Toriyama made a triumphant return to “Dragon Ball,” contributing to the screenplay of the highly anticipated film “Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods.” His involvement in subsequent film adaptations, including the latest installment, “Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero,” underscored his enduring influence on the franchise.

A private funeral service has already been held for Toriyama, with the artist survived by his wife, Yoshimi Katō, and their two children. His passing marks the end of an era in manga history, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of fans around the world.

BREAKING: Passengers Evacuated from United Airlines Plane at George Bush Intercontinental Airport

0

In a morning incident at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, passengers were evacuated from a United Airlines plane, as confirmed by the Houston Airport System (HAS). The flight, originating from Memphis, experienced a mishap upon leaving the runway to approach the gate, veering off into the grass, according to United Airlines.

Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among passengers. Prompt evacuation procedures were implemented, with passengers safely transported to the terminal. Despite the incident, operations at the airport remained unaffected, stated United Airlines. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been duly informed.

With this occurrence marking the third incident involving United Airlines this week, concerns have been raised regarding the airline’s safety protocols. On Thursday, a tire detached from a United flight departing from San Francisco. Earlier in the week, a United flight departing from Houston encountered engine troubles, prompting a return to the airport due to flames emanating from one of its engines.

As investigations continue into today’s incident, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of passengers and airport operations. Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.

United Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Engine Fire Midair

0

A United Airlines flight bound for Florida was forced to make an emergency landing this week after one of its engines caught fire shortly after takeoff.

The incident occurred on Monday evening as Flight 1118 departed from George Bush Intercontinental Airport at 6:40 p.m. The flight was en route to Southwest Florida International Airport before the engine malfunction occurred.

Thankfully, there were no reported injuries resulting from the incident, according to a United spokesperson who spoke to USA TODAY on Thursday.

“United flight 1118 returned to Houston shortly after takeoff due to an engine issue. The flight landed safely, and the passengers deplaned normally,” United stated in a release to USA TODAY.

Despite the frightening ordeal, passengers remained safe as the plane made its emergency landing. Video footage shared on social media captured the harrowing moments, showing flames erupting from the aircraft’s left engine.

One passenger, @jboulah, expressed gratitude for the safe landing in a social media post following the incident.

David Gruninger, another passenger aboard the flight, recounted the terrifying experience to KTRK-TV in Houston. “I remember there was just this bright, flashing light that came through the window, and it sounded like a bomb went off, and then it was just a strobe of fire out the window,” Gruninger shared.

Despite the disruption to their travel plans, United Airlines swiftly arranged for a new aircraft, allowing passengers to continue their journey to Fort Myers later that evening.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise during air travel, underscoring the importance of safety protocols and quick action in ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew.

USWNT Triumphs in Rain-Soaked Concacaf Semifinal, Secures Final Spot Amid Weather Chaos

0

The typically arid climate of San Diego took an unexpected turn as torrential rain showers disrupted the much-anticipated Concacaf semifinal clash between the United States and Canada on Wednesday night. Despite the challenging weather conditions at Snapdragon Stadium, the match culminated in a nail-biting 2-2 draw in extra time, with the United States emerging victorious in a penalty shootout, securing a spot in Sunday’s final against Brazil.

The encounter was marked by unforeseen challenges stemming from the inclement weather, with former USWNT players expressing concerns over safety. Nevertheless, both teams pressed on, navigating through the waterlogged pitch and slippery conditions.

Sophia Smith’s crucial goal in the first half of extra time appeared to seal the U.S.’s path to the final, only to be countered by a penalty kick from Canada’s Adriana Leon in the dying moments. However, redemption awaited U.S. goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher in the penalty shootout, as she delivered a heroic performance, saving two penalties and converting one herself.

The adverse weather conditions significantly impacted gameplay, with both teams struggling to maintain possession and execute passes effectively. Jaedyn Shaw’s opening goal for the U.S., stemming from a halted back pass due to the rain, exemplified the challenging circumstances faced by players on both sides.

Despite the victory, questions lingered regarding the suitability of the match conditions, with the waterlogged pitch rendering traditional gameplay nearly impossible. As players prepare for the final showdown against Brazil, they remain hopeful for improved weather conditions and a smoother playing surface.

In the day’s other semifinal, Brazil secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Mexico, capitalizing on early goals and exploiting their numerical advantage following Nicolette Hernandez’s red card.

The USWNT’s triumph sets the stage for an exhilarating final clash against Brazil, scheduled for Sunday at 8:15 p.m. ET on Paramount+. As anticipation builds for the championship showdown, fans await a spectacle of soccer excellence amidst hopes for clearer skies and optimal playing conditions.

Houston Airports Brace for Record Spring Break Travel Amid Surge in Passenger Numbers

0

With Spring Break on the horizon, Houston Airports are gearing up for what is anticipated to be the busiest travel period on record, surpassing last year’s totals by 8%. Forecasts predict a staggering 2.1 million passengers, signaling a significant uptick in holiday travel through Hobby Airport and Bush Airport.

Preparations are underway to accommodate the influx of travelers, with Hobby Airport poised to welcome nearly 540,000 passengers, while Bush Airport anticipates hosting close to 1.8 million passengers. Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, assured the public of the airports’ readiness to handle the heightened crowds.

“Houston Airports is ready for increased crowds,” stated Szczesniak. “From ensuring traffic flows smoothly to fully staffing operations and supporting additional Houston police officers, our team is committed to providing a 5-Star experience for every guest.”

In light of the expected surge in travelers, Houston Airports urge passengers to plan and prepare adequately for their journey. World-class amenities such as playgrounds, restaurants, shops, and pet relief stations await travelers, providing opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment amidst the hustle and bustle of travel.

For passengers flying out of Bush Airport, navigating construction projects remains a key consideration. A new international terminal and transformation of Terminal B are underway, with efforts prioritized to minimize traffic impacts during the Spring Break period.

Travelers are advised to follow recommendations to streamline their airport experience, including adhering to TSA screening guidelines, monitoring wait times, and reserving parking online to ensure convenience and accessibility.

As Houston Airports brace for the busiest Spring Break on record, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early, and make the most of the amenities and services available to enhance their travel experience.

FDA Urged to Recall Acne Products Amid Cancer-Causing Benzene Contamination Concerns

In a significant development, an independent laboratory petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday to recall a range of acne products suspected to contain heightened levels of benzene, a known carcinogen.

The lab, Valisure, based in Connecticut, raised alarm over the presence of benzene in these acne treatments, attributing it to the breakdown of benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient found in over-the-counter topical acne remedies.

This isn’t the first time Valisure has flagged hazardous substances in everyday products. Over the past years, the lab has uncovered cancer-causing elements in various consumer goods and medications, prompting recalls, including benzene in hand sanitizers and spray sunscreens.

Benzene, classified as carcinogenic by numerous federal agencies and international organizations, poses significant health risks. Exposure to even low levels of benzene, as low as 0.8 parts per million (ppm), has been linked to various cancers, including blood and lymphatic cancers.

The FDA guidelines strictly prohibit the use of benzene in drug product manufacturing, advising against levels exceeding 2 ppm. Valisure’s testing revealed benzene contamination in 94 benzoyl peroxide products, often surpassing the permissible limit.

Moreover, Valisure’s research highlighted a concerning trend: a considerable spike in benzene levels when samples were subjected to common pharmaceutical stability testing temperatures, such as 122°F. This temperature mimics conditions encountered in everyday settings, indicating a potential hazard for consumers.

Further investigation by Valisure suggested that benzene could be leaching from product packaging, exacerbating the contamination risk. The lab posited that benzoyl peroxide products may degrade into gaseous benzene, dispersing into surrounding environments, such as hot cars or steamy bathrooms.

Beyond advocating for recalls, Valisure urged the FDA to scrutinize manufacturing processes of benzoyl peroxide products and develop robust testing protocols to detect benzene contamination. Brands implicated in Valisure’s findings include Proactiv, Target’s Up & Up, Clinique, Clearasil, and CeraVe.

The revelation underscores the urgent need for rigorous oversight and regulatory measures to safeguard consumer health. As the FDA evaluates Valisure’s petition, consumers are advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant when using acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, pending further regulatory action.

University of Houston Secures Share of Big 12 Regular Season Championship

0

The University of Houston Cougars men’s basketball team claimed a significant milestone in its inaugural season in the Big 12 conference, securing a share of the regular-season championship with a hard-fought victory over the University of Central Florida Golden Knights. The No. 1 ranked Coogs battled to a 67-59 triumph in Wednesday’s matchup, setting the stage for a potential outright title clinch in their upcoming showdown against the No. 14 Kansas Jayhawks.

Despite trailing for much of the game and facing a resilient UCF squad, Houston showcased its resilience and determination, mounting a decisive comeback in the latter stages of the contest. A pivotal three-point shot from Jamal Shead ignited a crucial 7-0 run, propelling the Coogs into the lead with just 12 minutes remaining on the clock.

Senior transfer L.J. Cryer, a pivotal figure in Houston’s campaign, led the scoring charge with an impressive 25-point performance, punctuated by five three-pointers. Shead contributed significantly with 16 points and eight assists, while J’Wan Roberts chipped in with 12 points. Despite an injury scare involving Ja’vier Francis, who rallied to finish the game with eight rebounds, Houston showcased its depth and resilience.

The victory comes amid adversity for head coach Kelvin Sampson’s squad, which recently suffered a setback with the loss of Jojo Tugler for the remainder of the season. However, the Coogs remain undeterred as they return home to conclude their remarkable debut season in the Big 12 conference, facing off against the formidable Kansas Jayhawks in a highly-anticipated matchup.

The upcoming clash, scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m., promises to be a thrilling finale to Houston’s regular-season campaign. As the Coogs set their sights on further success in the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship, where they are expected to enter as the presumptive No. 1 seed, fans can anticipate an electrifying postseason journey, with all tournament games slated to air on various ESPN networks.

Mayor Appoints Independent Panel to Review Houston Police Department’s Handling of Suspended Cases

In a bid to uphold transparency and maintain public trust, Mayor John Whitmire has declared the appointment of an independent panel tasked with reviewing the Houston Police Department’s (HPD) management of suspended cases. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over the handling of 264,000 incident reports that were suspended within the department.

“I trust and believe Police Chief Troy Finner is doing the best he can to manage the internal investigation, get to the bottom of it, and hold people accountable,” stated Mayor Whitmire during the announcement. “The independent panel will consist of individuals I also trust to review and validate the outcome, thereby aiding in bringing closure to the victims.”

The Mayor pledged to release the names of those who have agreed to serve on the independent review panel in the forthcoming days. Chief Finner affirmed that HPD is actively sorting through the extensive backlog of suspended cases, attributed to an internal HPD code citing a lack of personnel. Additional investigators have been assigned to thoroughly review the reports and reach out to the victims involved.

“I am deeply concerned about how and why this happened. The public wants answers and accountability. This process of appointing an independent panel will validate the investigation’s integrity,” remarked Mayor Whitmire, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability within law enforcement.

The move reflects the city’s commitment to address concerns raised by the community and restore confidence in the Houston Police Department’s operations. As the investigation progresses, both city officials and the public await further developments to ensure justice and accountability prevail.

Texas Primary Shake-Up: Trump Dominates, Haley Bows Out

0

In a decisive and closely watched event, Texas has delivered its verdict in the Super Tuesday primary elections, setting the stage for the presidential race ahead. With a significant number of delegates up for grabs, candidates vied fiercely for support across the Lone Star State.

Key Highlights:

  • Donald Trump Emerges Victorious: Incumbent Republican President Donald Trump clinched a resounding victory in Texas, solidifying his position as the party’s nominee for the upcoming presidential race. The win reaffirms Trump’s strong support base in Texas, a traditionally conservative stronghold.
  • Nikki Haley Exits Race: Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced her withdrawal from the Republican presidential race, citing the need for unity within the party. Despite a valiant effort, Haley’s campaign faced stiff competition, ultimately leading to her decision to suspend her candidacy.
  • Democratic Race Remains Competitive: On the Democratic side, the primary race in Texas proved to be fiercely contested, with multiple candidates vying for delegates. While early results suggest a close race, the final outcome is yet to be determined, reflecting the diversity of opinions and preferences among Texas voters.
  • Voter Turnout Surges: Preliminary reports indicate a surge in voter turnout across Texas, underscoring the significance of the Super Tuesday primaries. The enthusiastic participation of voters from diverse backgrounds underscores the importance of the electoral process in shaping the future of the nation.
  • Impact on National Landscape: Texas’s primary election results carry significant implications for the broader national political landscape. As one of the largest and most influential states in the country, Texas plays a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes and determining the trajectory of the presidential race.

With the Texas primary election results now in, candidates will shift their focus to upcoming contests, seeking to consolidate support and secure crucial delegates on the path to their respective party nominations. As the presidential race intensifies, all eyes remain on Texas and its pivotal role in shaping the future of American politics.

Mayor Whitmire Takes Action on Houston’s Water Bill Crisis

Significant developments are underway to address the ongoing water bill issues plaguing residents of Houston.

During Tuesday’s city council meeting, Mayor John Whitmire, who was recently elected, discussed his plans to alleviate the burden on residents facing unexplained and excessively high water bills.

Whitmore acknowledged the concerns voiced by two Houstonians during the council meeting and emphasized his determination to find a solution. “We will get there even if I have to replace the entire Public Works,” Whitmire responded.

While originally planning to unveil his high water bill relief plan this week, Whitmire decided to delay its announcement. He expressed dissatisfaction with the plan presented by Houston Public Works, citing gaps and stating that it is not up to standard. “I did not like the plan that was presented to me yesterday because it had some gaps. It is still not where it needs to be,” Whitmire remarked.

Despite not disclosing the full details of the plan, Whitmire revealed some aspects that water customers can anticipate. He mentioned that there are approximately 100,000 broken remote read water sensors throughout the city, leading to inaccurate billing. The goal is to replace these sensors within the next nine months, significantly earlier than the previously planned five-year timeframe.

“Our goal is fair and truthful billing,” Whitmire emphasized, adding that customers who receive high water bills should calculate their correct billing cost by averaging their three lowest water bills from 2023.

In December, former Mayor Sylvester Turner implemented changes to several ordinances related to water bills, including allowing customers to apply for a maximum of two leak adjustments per year and providing 50% credit on excess water usage on both water and wastewater charges.

Houston Public Works has applied $6.3 million in credits to water bills in dispute since the implementation of these ordinance changes in December 2023. The department continues to collaborate with Mayor Whitmire on his plan to ensure reliable water bills for residents.

As the city works towards resolving the water bill issues, updates will be provided as soon as they become available.