87.1 F
Houston
Sunday, June 15, 2025

Home Blog Page 223

Girl Scout Troop Welcomed Back After Brief Dispute with Crumbl Cookies Franchise in Cypress

0

In a turn of events, tensions between a Girl Scout troop and a Crumbl Cookies franchise location in Cypress have been resolved amicably, dispelling earlier reports of a potential conflict.

Initial reports from ABC13 on Thursday suggested that the troop had been asked to vacate their usual spot at the Towne Lake Center, sparking concerns of a rift between the two entities. However, management has since confirmed that the troop has been welcomed back with open arms.

Jennifer Simmons, Chief Marketing Officer of the Boardwalk, shed light on the situation, explaining that in previous years, Girl Scout troops had coordinated directly with individual stores for cookie sales without the knowledge of the overarching agreements. This had inadvertently clashed with the center’s rules, which prohibited the solicitation or sale of items that could be seen as competing with nearby businesses.

However, management clarified that these rules were not intended to apply to Girl Scout cookie sales. Roxie Walker, managing partner of the Crumbl Cookies location in Cypress, emphasized that the troop was not viewed as competition but rather as a valued part of the community.

“It enhances the businesses here at the boardwalk. They really are the embodiment of community that Towne Lake Center stands for,” Walker affirmed.

Upon learning of the misunderstanding, management swiftly moved to rectify the situation. Simmons attributed the issue to miscommunication and has since reached out to the Girl Scouts’ general counsel to ensure a smooth resolution.

In a gesture of goodwill, Crumbl Cookies has pledged to purchase $2,000 worth of cookies to be donated to local police, firefighters, and Camp Hope. Walker expressed her desire to support the troops and make up for any potential loss in sales.

As the situation continues to unfold, Eyewitness News awaits confirmation from the Girl Scouts regarding the resolution. However, with both parties expressing a commitment to cooperation and community support, it appears that any potential conflict has been swiftly resolved.

TxDOT Completes Early Finish on I-610 West Loop and I-69 Southwest Freeway Interchange Project

0

In a welcome update for commuters, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced the early completion of roadwork on the I-610 West Loop and I-69 Southwest Freeway interchange project over the weekend.

Initially projected to cause significant traffic disruptions, the completion of the project ahead of schedule came as a relief for drivers navigating the busy interchange. TxDOT confirmed the successful conclusion of the project on Sunday, following the completion of essential roadwork.

The project had entailed the closure of all southbound lanes of the West Loop at I-69 throughout the weekend, starting from Friday at 9 p.m. and slated to continue until Monday at 5 a.m. Additionally, the southbound lanes of the Southwest Freeway were temporarily closed around the same time on Friday but reopened to traffic by Saturday at 5 a.m.

With the completion of this phase of the project, TxDOT is now eyeing the final stages, aiming for full completion by late this year. The overarching goal of the project is to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety measures at the interchange, addressing longstanding concerns among commuters.

The early finish of the roadwork comes as welcome news for residents and commuters alike, signaling progress in the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and ease traffic flow in the region. As TxDOT continues its endeavors to enhance transportation networks, the completion of the I-610 West Loop and I-69 Southwest Freeway interchange project marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of safer and more efficient roadways.

96th Academy Awards Set to Make Waves Amidst Controversy and High Expectations on March 10th

The anticipation for the 96th Academy Awards is at fever pitch as Hollywood gears up for a night of glitz, glamour, and potential history-making moments. Scheduled to commence an hour earlier than usual at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 10, this year’s Oscars promise to deliver excitement and surprises against the backdrop of a tumultuous year in the movie industry.

Amidst the aftermath of unprecedented events such as the Barbenheimer phenomenon and industry-wide strikes, the Oscars will emanate from the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Viewers can catch the action live on ABC or via various streaming platforms such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV.

Returning for his fourth stint as host, the irrepressible Jimmy Kimmel takes the reins once again, drawing inspiration from the cultural zeitgeist shaped by movies like Barbie and Top Gun: Maverick. With his past experiences, including the infamous La La Land-Moonlight mix-up, Kimmel is primed to navigate the evening’s festivities with his trademark wit and charm.

As the spotlight shines on the nominees, the possibility of groundbreaking victories looms large. Notable contenders like Lily Gladstone of Killers of the Flower Moon and Colman Domingo of Rustin stand poised to break barriers with potential historic wins in acting categories. Meanwhile, veteran director Martin Scorsese and composer John Williams could etch their names in the annals of Oscar history with record-breaking achievements of their own.

In the race for Best Picture, Oppenheimer emerges as a frontrunner, with the potential to surpass longstanding records for most wins by a single film. As the excitement builds and anticipation reaches a crescendo, the 96th Academy Awards promise to be a night to remember, celebrating the magic and artistry of cinema in all its splendor.

30th Annual SAG Awards Reflect Industry’s Best Performances of 2023

The 30th Screen Actors Guild Awards, a prestigious event recognizing outstanding performances in film and television, showcased notable victories for “Oppenheimer” and “The Bear” on Saturday. Held at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles and streamed live on Netflix for the first time, the ceremony celebrated the best performances of 2023, offering insights into potential outcomes for the upcoming Academy Awards.

With categories exclusively focused on performance, the SAG Awards hold significance within the industry. Winners are determined by the votes of the union’s vast membership, exceeding 119,000 members according to the SAG Awards website.

This year’s awards marked a significant moment following a 118-day strike by members the previous year. After negotiating a new contract with over 350 production companies, actors secured improved wages, working conditions, and safeguards against the encroachment of artificial intelligence in performances.

Barbra Streisand was honored with the prestigious Life Achievement Award, receiving a standing ovation for her contribution to the industry. In her acceptance speech, Streisand reflected on her journey and the importance of pursuing dreams despite obstacles, emphasizing the privilege of being part of the profession.

Among the notable winners in the film category were “Oppenheimer,” recognized for outstanding performance by a cast, with Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr. earning individual accolades for their roles. In television, “The Bear” emerged victorious, with Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri receiving awards for their performances.

Here is the complete list of winners:

Film:

  • Outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture: “Oppenheimer”
  • Outstanding performance by a female actor in a leading role: Lily Gladstone, “Killers of the Flower Moon”
  • Outstanding performance by a male actor in a leading role: Cillian Murphy, “Oppenheimer”
  • Outstanding performance by a female actor in a supporting role: Da’Vine Joy Randolph, “The Holdovers”
  • Outstanding performance by a male actor in a supporting role: Robert Downey Jr., “Oppenheimer”

Television:

  • Outstanding performance by a male actor in a television movie or limited series: Steven Yeun, “Beef”
  • Outstanding performance by a female actor in a television movie or limited series: Ali Wong, “Beef”
  • Outstanding performance by a male actor in a drama series: Pedro Pascal, “The Last of Us”
  • Outstanding performance by a female actor in a drama series: Elizabeth Debicki, “The Crown”
  • Outstanding performance by a male actor in a comedy series: Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear”
  • Outstanding performance by a female actor in a comedy series: Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”
  • Outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series: “Succession”
  • Outstanding performance by an ensemble in a comedy series: “The Bear”

Stunts:

  • Outstanding performance by a stunt ensemble in a motion picture: “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One”
  • Outstanding performance by a stunt ensemble in a television series: “The Last of Us”

University of Houston Men’s Basketball Triumphs Over Baylor in Thrilling Overtime Victory

0

In a highly anticipated matchup, the University of Houston Men’s Basketball team secured a hard-fought victory against Baylor in an intense game that went into overtime. Senior guard L.J. Cryer, facing his former team, emerged as a key player, scoring 15 points, including six crucial free throws during overtime, to seal the win with a final score of 82-76. The game, held at Foster Pavilion on Saturday afternoon, showcased the Cougars’ resilience and determination as they maintained their lead throughout regulation and battled through the extra period to secure the win.

Reflecting on his performance, Cryer expressed his readiness for the hostile reception from Baylor fans, stating, “I was expecting the boos and stuff like that, like not welcoming.” Despite the challenging environment, Cryer demonstrated his composure and maturity, playing nearly 43 minutes without committing a turnover.

Cougars coach Kelvin Sampson commended Cryer for his exceptional performance, highlighting his ability to stay focused amidst the pressure. “L.J. was in a tough environment today… He showed his maturity because he just played solid,” said Sampson.

The Cougars, currently ranked second and leading the Big 12 conference, displayed a team effort with contributions from multiple players. Emanuel Sharp, a sophomore guard, led the team with 18 points, while senior forward J’Wan Roberts added 17 points and eight rebounds. Senior point guard Jamal Shead also made significant contributions with 12 points and 10 assists, securing his third double-double of the season.

Despite Baylor’s valiant efforts, led by Ja’Kobe Walter and RayJ Dennis, who scored 23 and 21 points respectively, the Bears fell short in their bid to overcome the Cougars’ relentless defense.

The game showcased the intensity of the rivalry between the two teams, marking their first meeting as Big 12 opponents since Baylor’s victory in the Final Four three years ago.

Looking ahead, the Cougars are set to face Cincinnati in their next matchup on Tuesday, Feb. 27, followed by a series of challenging games in March. Fans can continue to support the team through initiatives like Linking Coogs and the 50-50 Club, which provide crucial financial support for the program’s success.

For updates and news about Houston Men’s Basketball, fans can follow @UHCougarMBK on social media platforms and stay connected with the team’s latest developments.

This victory solidifies the Cougars’ position as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball, as they continue their pursuit of excellence in the Big 12 conference and beyond.

Houston Air Force Veteran Missing After Planned Trip to Mexico City

0

Concerns are mounting for the safety of a Houston Air Force veteran who has gone missing after reportedly traveling to Mexico City. John Gamboa, as confirmed by his mother, Fermina Gamboa, was expected to return on Sunday from his trip but has not been heard from since before his departure.

The U.S. State Department has acknowledged reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Mexico City, offering limited details on the case. According to Fermina, John had plans for a brief trip to Mexico City to retrieve belongings, as he had been home-based there last year during his work. However, his failure to return as scheduled has left his family deeply worried, with Fermina expressing fears for her son’s life.

“I am not sure if he’s alive,” Fermina expressed, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding John’s whereabouts and well-being.

The last contact Fermina had with John was on the morning of Feb. 16, when he informed her of his imminent departure for Mexico City. Since then, communication has ceased, raising further concerns about his safety. Despite attempts to reach out to acquaintances in Mexico, there has been no word on John’s whereabouts or condition.

The situation took a troubling turn when Fermina received a notification from USAA Bank on Saturday morning, indicating attempted access to John’s account. As Sunday came and went without John’s return, Fermina grew increasingly anxious. Worries escalated on Monday when John’s employer informed Fermina that he had failed to log in for work, adding to the mystery surrounding his disappearance.

Efforts to gather information have been met with frustration, with Fermina encountering roadblocks in her attempts to reach relevant authorities. Despite the withdrawal attempts from John’s account, Fermina remains focused on the paramount importance of her son’s safety.

“I just need my son to be back,” Fermina emphasized, underscoring the irreplaceable value of John’s life over material concerns. She stressed that while money can be replaced, her son’s well-being cannot.

John’s background as an Air Force veteran adds a poignant dimension to his disappearance, with Fermina lamenting the challenges she faces in seeking assistance from state and government agencies. The family’s origins from the Philippines further compound the complexities of the situation.

As Fermina continues her relentless pursuit for answers, the community remains hopeful for John’s safe return, rallying behind the family during this distressing time.

Fort Worth Gears Up to Host 2024 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships

0

Gymnastics enthusiasts and Olympic hopefuls alike are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the 2024 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth. Set to take place from May 30 to June 2 at Dickies Arena, this prestigious event will feature some of the sport’s biggest stars, including Houston’s very own Simone Biles.

For athletes competing in Fort Worth, the championships mark a crucial opportunity to secure a spot in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, slated for Minneapolis four weeks later. As the final chance for qualification, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the excitement is palpable as gymnasts prepare to showcase their skills on the national stage.

Among the star-studded lineup expected to grace the arena are the last three women’s Olympic all-around gold medalists: Gabby Douglas (’12), Simone Biles (’16), and Sunisa Lee (’20). Additionally, spectators can look forward to witnessing performances by top talents such as Fred Richard and Khoi Young, the medalists from the 2023 World Championships.

Expressing enthusiasm for the event, Jason Sands, Executive Director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission, emphasized the city’s pride in hosting such a prestigious competition. “We are proud to support Team USA as they compete to represent our country on the world’s biggest stage,” Sands remarked. “We can’t wait to welcome these amazing athletes back to Dickies Arena and our great city for a truly authentic Texas experience.”

Tickets for all sessions of the 2024 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships are available for purchase through Ticketmaster. Prices start at $239 for access to all eight sessions, offering fans the chance to witness the exhilarating performances across multiple days.

The schedule for the championships features a lineup of events spread over four days, including both junior and senior categories for men and women. From the intense competition of the senior events to the promising talent on display in the junior competitions, there’s something for every gymnastics enthusiast to enjoy.

As Fort Worth prepares to host this prestigious event, the city’s Sports Commission, a division of Visit Fort Worth, is working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for athletes, spectators, and participants alike. With Fort Worth poised to shine as an international sports destination, the 2024 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships promise to be an unforgettable spectacle of athleticism and skill.

Inmate Maintains Innocence as Execution Date Looms: Ivan Cantu’s Fight for Justice

0

Ivan Cantu, facing a looming execution date, maintains his innocence from behind the bars of the Allan B. Polunsky Unit prison in West Livingston, Texas. Convicted 24 years ago for two murders he claims he did not commit, Cantu clings to hope while awaiting a scheduled lethal injection on February 28.

Born in Dallas 50 years ago, Cantu was sentenced to death in October 2001 for the murder of his cousin, James Mosqueda, and Mosqueda’s fiancée, Amy Kitchen. Despite two postponements, Cantu’s execution date remains imminent, pending a last-minute appeal.

Speaking with Noticias Telemundo, Cantu expressed his desperation, insisting on his innocence. “I don’t want to die,” he asserted, lamenting the impending punishment for a crime he maintains he did not commit. Despite efforts to present evidence supporting his innocence, Cantu feels unheard by the judicial system.

Over the years, Cantu’s case has garnered public attention and support. His attorney, Gena Bunn, alongside private investigators and a podcast producer, claim to have unearthed evidence discrediting the prosecution’s case and raising doubts about Cantu’s guilt. Public figures, including Kim Kardashian, Martin Sheen, and Jane Fonda, as well as organizations like Amnesty International, have advocated for a revision of Cantu’s sentence.

Despite these efforts, Cantu’s plea for a fair trial remains unfulfilled. Recent appeals have been unsuccessful, with the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals rejecting requests for further review.

Cantu’s case is marred by allegations of a flawed trial, including inadequate legal representation and questionable witness testimony. Yet, these issues have yet to prompt a reevaluation of his conviction.

As Cantu awaits his fate, he reflects on the toll of his incarceration, spending up to 22 hours a day in his cell. The harsh conditions of death row weigh heavily on him, with limited contact with loved ones and restricted access to legal resources exacerbating his isolation.

Despite the challenges, Cantu remains determined to prove his innocence. He hopes for a new trial, believing it to be his only chance to vindicate himself and reunite with his family. As his execution date looms, Cantu’s fight for justice continues, a testament to his unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

Latin American Leaders Bukele and Milei Headline CPAC, Strengthening Ties with U.S. Conservatives

0

This week, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) will host Presidents Nayib Bukele of El Salvador and Javier Milei of Argentina, marking a significant convergence between right-leaning Latin American leaders and the Republican Party. The presence of these leaders underscores a growing alliance, with both strategic and political implications.

While some Republicans see this alliance as an opportunity to bolster support for the upcoming November elections, Latin American leaders view it as a chance to cultivate relationships with potential future U.S. leaders and exert influence over foreign policy decisions.

According to Eduardo Gamarra, a political science professor at Florida International University, the engagement with CPAC reflects efforts by Latin American leaders to establish rapport with potential future U.S. presidents. However, Gamarra cautions that aligning with a specific political faction carries risks, particularly if that faction loses influence.

The collaboration between the Latin American right and U.S. conservatives mirrors longstanding gatherings of left-wing political parties in Latin America, such as the Foro de São Paulo. While Democrats have not traditionally participated in such forums, some on the right have accused Democratic administrations of being influenced by leftist movements.

CPAC, once primarily a gathering for Republicans, has evolved into a platform dominated by former President Donald Trump and his allies. It has expanded internationally, with spinoff events in Brazil and other countries. The relationship between the Latin American right and Republicans was further solidified during Trump’s presidency, particularly through his close ties with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Bukele and Milei’s presence at CPAC reinforces the anti-left message embraced by Republicans, particularly in their efforts to appeal to Hispanic voters. Both leaders have garnered attention for their outspoken views and policies, with Bukele emphasizing his efforts to combat crime in El Salvador and Milei advocating for economic reforms in Argentina.

Despite criticism of some of Bukele’s tactics, such as packing courts with loyalists, his governance model has gained popularity in the region, especially amid rising gang violence. The Biden administration, while initially critical of Bukele’s actions, has shown a willingness to engage with him, particularly on issues related to migration.

Milei, known for his populist economic views, has sought to implement bold economic reforms in Argentina to address the country’s economic crisis.

Overall, the presence of Bukele and Milei at CPAC signifies a deepening relationship between the Latin American right and U.S. conservatives, with implications for both domestic and international politics.

Historic Milestone: Battleship Texas Set to Float Again by Early March

0

In an eagerly awaited development, the beloved floating museum, Battleship Texas, is on track to return to the water next month, promising a blend of historical restoration and modern upgrades.

The latest update from the Battleship Texas Foundation, posted earlier this week, highlighted significant progress in the restoration efforts. The focus has been on reinstalling mounts and hardware for two of the ship’s deck guns, with one already completed and the other scheduled for reinstallation. Additionally, maintenance tasks such as paint touch-ups and part refitting are underway.

The guns, classified as 5”/51 type, boast formidable specifications, firing five-inch diameter projectiles with a barrel length of over 21 feet. Originating in 1911, these guns played pivotal roles in naval battles, notably during World War II, such as the engagement at Wake Island in 1943.

Interestingly, historical records reveal initial skepticism from the ship’s captain about the effectiveness of these guns in 1919. However, by 1941, the vessel was armed with sixteen of these powerful weapons.

Despite the anticipation, the foundation clarified that visitors shouldn’t expect any live demonstrations: “no, we will not make the gun go bang.”

While the restoration progresses, the foundation aims for the ship’s return to water by early March, marking a significant milestone in the $60 million multi-year restoration project. Efforts include ensuring the vessel’s structural integrity and applying specialized coatings to combat corrosion.

However, despite the excitement of its impending return to water, the Battleship Texas won’t be setting sail independently anytime soon. The foundation clarified that the ship will remain stationary, with plans to settle it into a new berth near Galveston’s Pier 21 pushed to the latter half of 2025 or even 2026.

For enthusiasts eager to witness the ongoing restoration firsthand, limited spots are available for the upcoming dry-dock tour, offering a unique opportunity to explore the historic vessel before its relocation. Tickets are priced at $200 and can be purchased through the foundation’s website.