August 22, 2021
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
Vol. 26, Issue 31
who police the police? “Addressing Current & Historical Realties Affecting Our Community”
Third shots needed
By: By: N.L. Preston
Big, Black, Beautiful and Unapologetic!
By: Roy Douglas Malonson
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and, frankly, who gives a damn what you think! That is what more women are saying these days – tired of living under the microscope and scrutiny of judgment and unwanted advice. Why can’t we all just let a person be whom they want to be – especially if they
are not bothering you. Can we be FAT and HAPPY? Sounds strange that we even have to ask these questions, but sadly, today, we do! The “weight loss industry” is racking in billions – from a collection of fad diets and products, “healthy meal” services, exercise equipment, gym memberships,
waist trainers, etc. etc. etc. because so many of us are trying to live up to others’ standard of beauty. We are not against anyone getting healthy and physically fit, that is necessary to save lives, we are just against the stigma of people trying to “perfect” themselves and not focusing on positive body images.
Black women are in a category all by themselves. Many of us will never fit into the “Hollywood” stereotypical – or rather European – ideals of beauty. We are, by design, made stronger, with more athletic builds, broader shoulders,
Unapologetic cont’d page 4
It seems we’re back where we started in this COVID-19 crisis. Despite vaccines being administered, cases continue to rise, and hospitals are to the brim with patients suffering from the Delta variant of the coronavirus. Health experts say the effectiveness of the vaccines against the new variant is declining. While the vaccine does keep most people from being hospitalized, people are still contracting the virus. The Centers for Disease Control is now recommending booster shots. In a blunt – perhaps troubling – assessment
about the need for a third vaccine shot, CDC Dr. Rochelle Walensky said the agency examined numerous cohorts through the end of July, and early August and three points are now clear. “First, vaccineinduced protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection begins to decrease over time. Second, vaccine effectiveness against severe disease, hospitalization, and death remains relatively high. And third, vaccine effectiveness is generally decreased
Shots cont’d page 3
“OUR VOTE AND OUR MONEY ARE THE TWO MOST POWERFUL THINGS WE HAVE. BE CAREFUL WHO YOU GIVE THEM TO.” - ROY DOUGLAS MALONSON