HOUSTON – Texans may soon start breathing some cautious sighs of relief as the first shipment of the coronavirus vaccine, which includes 224,250 doses to 109 Texas hospitals in 34 counties, are set to arrive on Dec. 14, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Those amounts are barely enough to scratch the surface, with 30 million people in the state of Texas alone, so who will be among the selected to receive the first shots, and many are wondering if they are safe to take.

State officials have decided that health care workers will be vaccinated first, followed by nursing home staffers, emergency medical service drivers, paramedics and home health aides workers in an effort to “protect those caring for COVID-19 patients and preserve the health care system’s ability to function.”

“The State of Texas is already prepared for the arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine and will swiftly distribute these vaccines to Texans who voluntarily choose to be immunized,” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said in a release. “As we await the first shipment of these vaccines, we will work with communities to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.”

The vaccine will be spread across 21 hospitals in Harris County, four in Montgomery County, one in Galveston County and one in Fort Bend County. Larger allotments are expected in January and in the following months.

But many are apprehensive to take the immunizations, especially Black Americans, still exhibiting mistrust and distrust developed from the infamous Tuskegee Experiment.

The head of the U.S. vaccine development effort, Dr. Moncef Slaoui, said he believes the COVID-19 vaccine is safe, and could have long-lasting effect.

Slaoui told CNN’s “State of the Union” that only time will tell for certain, but that in his opinion, the vaccine’s effectiveness could last for “many, many years,” with older people and others who are more vulnerable requiring a booster every three to five years.

Slaoui also said that one of the hallmarks of immune systems is memory, so the body’s response to the coronavirus will be much faster once vaccinated, adding that it’s still unknown if vaccinated persons could spread the virus to others, and we may have to wait until February or March to find out.

With that in mind, people are reminded to continue to take safeguards and follow safety guidelines in order to protect themselves and others against COVID-19.

Slaoui said once 70 to 80% of the population is vaccinated, “the virus will go down.”

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

The United States has more than 14 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and more than 281,000 deaths.  Worldwide, there are more than 66 million confirmed cases with more than 1.5 million deaths.

After a devastatingly painful year 2020 – we may have hope on the horizon and could be approaching “the beginning” of “the end” of the pandemic.

Local hospitals to receive vaccines:

Harris County:

  • Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital: 1,950
  • Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital: 975
  • Lukes Hospital at The Vintage: 975
  • Texas Children’s Hospital (Main campus): 3,900
  • HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest: 1,950
  • Texas Children’s Hospital (West Campus): 975
  • UT MD Anderson Cancer Center: 4,875
  • LBJ Hospital – Harris County Hospital District: 1,950
  • Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center: 5,850
  • Memorial Hermann Greater Heights: 1,950
  • Memorial Hermann SE Hospital: 1,950
  • Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center: 2,925
  • Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital: 975
  • Ben Taub General Hospital: 1,950
  • Houston Methodist West Hospital: 975
  • Houston Methodist Hospital: 5,850
  • CHI St. Lukes Health: 5,850
  • Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital: 975
  • Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital: 975
  • HCA Houston Healthcare Southeast: 975
  • University of Texas Medical Branch – Clear Lake: 975
  • Montgomery County (Total: 4,875 doses)
  • Texas Children’s Hospital Woodlands: 975
  • Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital: 975
  • Kingwood Medical Center: 975
  • Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital: 1,950

Fort Bend County:

  • Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital: 1,950

Galveston County:

  • University of Texas Medical Branch Hospital: 2,925

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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