PARKS

The Mellon Foundation has announced a $13.4 million grant to the National Parks Foundation to fund 30 humanities postdoctoral fellowships.

Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, died after being shot during a campaign speech.

The June 11 event will feature jazz and go-go music and end with a screening of a documentary about the venerable D.C.-based label.

As the country spins in circles trying to make sense of race, ward off inhumanity and define social justice, Parks’s creative kin are uniquely positioned to shed light, offer guidance and question the status quo.

The McIlhenny Co. took notice of a bottle of their famous Tabasco hot sauce painted into a religious artwork inside a church in Parks.

Elected leaders in Kansas convened community groups and held town hall conversations after demonstrators protested George Floyd’s death statewide.

D.C. theater troupe specializes in commedia dell’arte, the centuries-old street-theater form.

Several youths have been apprehended and prosecuted in the past year for vandalizing park district property

A four-legged addition to a Florida hospital is helping lift spirits and motivate kids.

A four-legged addition to a Florida hospital is helping lift spirits and motivate kids.

Parks’s advanced skills include turning light switches on and off with his snout and pulling ropes to hold doors open.

Black families are moving out of Chicago, partly to seek lower costs of living and leave gun violence behind.

Denver police say they have identified a man responsible for killing three women and a 17-year-old girl in separate incidents between 1978 and 1981.

Studio Theatre produces a revised version of the dramatist’s 2019 play

AFFORDABLE HOME OF THE WEEK | While the condo retains some elements of its older architecture such as arched doorways and radiators for heat, it also has tall east-facing windows that bring in natural light.

Phaedra Parks seems to have undergone a radical transformation since her days on reality TV. Now sporting a blond wig, a newly cinched waist, a […]

Funding for an Indigenous Cultures Center for Hays County received a recommendation from the Parks and Open Spaces Advisory Commission.[San Marcos, TX] [Hays County news] News San Marcos News, San Marcos Record [Texas State]

Phaedra Parks‘ family outing photo on Nov. 14, sparked controversy after fans found something different about the former reality star’s appearance in the shot. In […]

Soulful British singer-songwriter Arlo Parks has won the prestigious Mercury Prize for her debut album “Collapsed in Sunbeams.”.

"It’s just not something that seems Canadian,” Environment Canada senior climatologist David Phillips told CTV News.

The cop was recorded saying, “It’s a lie, but it’s fun.”

While some small businesses are recovering, others are being left behind in what's being called a "K-shaped" recovery.

Clara Park successfully challenged the idea that “refrigerator” moms caused the condition.

Texas Parks and Wildlife announced Wednesday that parks across the state are beginning to return to normal capacity. “We’re excited to welcome more visitors to our parks,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. Prior to the pandemic, many of the state’s most heavily-trafficked parks enacted capacity limits to ensure they weren’t overrun. “Getting outdoors is essential for people’s physical and mental health, and Texas State Parks play a critical role in meeting this need.”AdDay passes are available for purchase up to one month in advance. Travelers can reserve campsites or buy passes by visiting the State Parks Reservations page or calling 512-389-8900.

HOUSTON – The Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) announced Monday the scheduled reopening of certain facilities, fields, and leagues over the next few weeks. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and National Recreation and Park Association guidelines will be observed at all Parks Department facilities, which includes wearing masks at some league gatherings and other social-distancing and hygienic precautions. “We are extremely happy to reopen some of our parks facilities and amenities following the long shutdown related to COVID-19,” said HPARD interim director, Kenneth Allen. “We urge everyone to observe CDC safety guidelines when visiting these amenities. “This pandemic has disrupted almost every segment of our society these past several months, including the Parks Department,” said Allen.

This image released by Smithsonian Channel shows, from left, Rhiannon Giddens, Allison Russell, Leyla McCalla and Amythyst Kiah, of Our Native Daughters, near Parks, La., on Jan. 29, 2018. The group will appear in the documentary "Reclaiming History: Our Native Daughters" premiering Monday on Smithsonian Channel. (Terri Fensel/Smithsonian Channel via AP)NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Playing a banjo as a Black female artist is a form of activism for the four members of Our Native Daughters. Why does someone assume if you’re Black, you must be doing urban music, whatever that means?” said Russell. “Songs of Our Native Daughters” which came out on the Smithsonian Folkways record label in 2019, focused on the stories of women during the transatlantic slave trade, but also the triumphs of Black women.

“I did ask the urgent care doctor what I should be doing, and she said well, ‘Rest and ride it out,’” Parks said. So Parks decided to try self-care at home after doing science-backed research and seeking advice from friends with a medical background. She said while she believes boosting her immune system at home helped in her recovery it doesn’t replace health care. Dr. Joseph Varon, chief medical officer with United Memorial Medical Center, said taking vitamins D and C are great to take daily to help boost immunity. Varon said the best way to avoid COVID-19 is to follow the advice medical professionals have been preaching for months.

HOUSTON – If you’re an avid cyclist, be on the lookout for speed limit signs on some popular bike trails in Houston. Radack says his office has received around 20 complaints about cyclists going too fast around people. Cutrufo says cyclists usually don’t keep speedometers on their bikes and it’s hard to know how fast you’re going. Cutrufo adds he’s willing to work with Commissioner Radack or any official to find a better solution for cyclists and pedestrians. Commissioner Radack says he’s willing to adjust the speed limit once people comply with the rules.

Denver Broncos cornerback A.J. “Yeah, I was disappointed for him,” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said about an hour after the league suspended Bouye. Missing the final four games of 2020 will cost Bouye $2.34 million. The suspension would hang over Bouye into 2021 when he’d have to sit out the first two regular-season games. Given the injuries and suspension at cornerback, Parks said he was getting a crash course in the Broncos’ 2020 playbook.

Wildlife vets take samples from dead elephants found in Hwange National park, Zimbabwe, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020. (AP Photo)HARARE – Parks authorities in Zimbabwe said Monday that the recent deaths of elephants have been caused by a bacterial disease that has previously affected elephants in Asia and other animals in southern Africa, although more tests will still be carried out. In recent years poachers in Zimbabwe have poisoned dozens of elephants with cyanide and then have taken their ivory tusks to sell them to illegal traders. Not enough information is known about the disease’s effect on local elephants to predict a long-term outcome, he said. “Yes they die, but honestly this is just nothing, a drop in the ocean because we have over 84,000 elephants in Zimbabwe, which is overpopulation already,” he said.

As part of our Ask 2 series, the newsroom will answer your questions about all things Houston. Question: Will public parks and trails be open during Labor Day weekend? Answer: Yes, public parks and trails in Houston will be open during Labor Day weekend. He said when an individual is in public with others, they should wear a mask and practice social distancing. Bear in mind that the principles of the virus have not changed, Turner said during a press conference Friday.

Rayshard Brooks was laid to rest on Tuesday in Atlanta, Georgia, and Phaedra Parks is reflecting on what it meant to her to help direct the funeral service. A number of Brooks' family and friends were in attendance, including his wife, Tomika Miller, and a few notable celebrities, T.I. According to Parks, after the funeral, she accompanied his widow to the location where he was killed, and they spoke about his legacy. "As a little girl I really didnt know if I thought racism really existed, until I was hired to do some tutoring for a white family," Parks recalled. RELATED CONTENT:Rayshard Brooks Remembered as a Caring Father During Atlanta FuneralFired Atlanta Officer Who Shot Rayshard Brooks Charged With MurderMeghan McCain Calls for Police Reform Following Rayshard Brooks' DeathBillie Eilish Demands Justice for Rayshard Brooks After His Death

Getty ImagesLast year, Disney's Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products segment was its fastest-growing profit driver. However, its theme parks are expected to take the biggest hit. Disney theme parks are closed as the coronavirus continues to spread across the United States on March 14, 2020 in Anaheim, California. Currently, analysts are split on when theme parks will reopen in the U.S., in particular. Hodulik predicts that profit in the Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products division will fall around $500 million this year and $200 million in 2021.

SUGAR LAND, Texas – As the weather continues to heat up, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just need to clear your mind, Sugar Land has plenty of activities to do around the city. Here are six outdoor activities you can do right in Sugar Land. bit.ly/2LCgXNU Posted by Sugar Land Parks and Recreation on Friday, June 15, 2018Mayfield Park is a 4.3-acre neighborhood park located in one of Sugar Land’s oldest neighborhoods, near the historic Imperial Sugar Factory and the Sugar Land Heritage Museum & Visitor Center. Sugar Land, TX 77479For a map and guidelines: SugarLandTX.govBurn some calories on a walking trailSugar Land Memorial ParkSugar Land Memorial Park encompasses 150 acres along the Brazos River and 2.5 miles walking and biking trails.

Here are five walking trails you can visit to help ease your mind and body. As always, remember to practice social distancing and wash your hands after your park visit. Katy City Park“Beautiful scenery, beautiful environment, suitable for walking, running and barbecue in the wild.” -JonathanAddress: 5720 Franz Road, Katy TX 77493Mary Jo Peckham Park“Beautiful park for walking, jogging and bringing the kids to play. Great place for a picnic.” -MichelleAddress: Rice Park Trail, Katy, TX 77450Mason Creek South Hike & Bike Trail“Great place to take a long walk. There is a trail between this park and Katy Park that really adds to the value of this park as a destination.

HOUSTON – Families won’t be spending this weekend in Houston and Harris County parks. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo signed an order Wednesday to close all county parks from Thursday at 8 p.m. to Monday at 8 a.m. to promote social distancing. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner followed by announcing on Thursday afternoon that all city parks will also be closed through Easter weekend. “We want people to be spiritually together but physically apart,” said Dr. Umair Shah, the executive director of Harris County Public Health during a press conference Wednesday. On Wednesday, Harris County officials reported 135 new coronavirus cases and seven deaths, bringing the total to 961 cases and 19 deaths in Harris County, excluding the cases in the city of Houston.

Whether it’s stress from work, COVID-19 or need to step out of the household for a bit, we compiled a list of six walking trails you can visit in Cypress. It’s by no means as small as it may look, lots of trails and a creek that runs along the side.” -NicoleAddress: Telge Rd & Spring Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77429Phone: (281) 353-8100Telge ParkVisitor Review: “Nice little park for a forest walk. Great for kids.” -ArnoAddress: 12400 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cypress, TX 77429Phone: (281) 496-2177Website: pct3.com/ParksMaxwell ParkPet Owner Review: “I love this park. My shihtzu loves this park.” -YolimarAddress: 12622 Maxwell Rd, Cypress, TX 77429Phone: (281) 496-2177Related: 7 hiking trails outdoor enthusiasts in The Woodlands love to exploreKickerillo-Mischer PreserveVisitor Review: “I absolutely love this place!!! The park is well-maintained and clean.” -NuwanAddress: 14234 W Cypress Forest Dr, Houston, TX 77070Phone: (281) 353-8100

A Third Ward developer has loaned a vacant lot at McGowen and Live Oak streets for a community chess park, according to Third Ward Complete Communities. HOUSTON – A Third Ward developer has loaned a vacant lot at McGowen and Live Oak streets in Houston for a community chess park, according to Third Ward Complete Communities. The chess park is at a significant intersection and across the street from Ralston’s Liquor Store in Third Ward. A Third Ward developer has loaned a vacant lot at McGowen and Live Oak streets for a community chess park, according to Third Ward Complete Communities. The Third Ward Chess Club will maintain the chess park with assistance and guidance from Cinque Projects.

MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- A new statue of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks was dedicated in Alabama's capital city on Sunday, the 64th anniversary of her historic refusal to give up her seat on a public bus to a white man.Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed and Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey pulled back a cloth to unveil the statue before a crowd of about 400 spectators.The ceremony coincided with the anniversary of Parks' Dec. 1, 1955 arrest that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal part of the civil rights movement. One of the plaintiffs, Mary Louise Smith, took part in the ceremony Sunday.Parks was 92 when she died in 2005.Fred Gray, the attorney who defended Parks, the Browder v. Gayle plaintiffs and many other civil rights activists, sat in the second row at the unveiling. "For the city officials, from the city and the county, to be able to honor Mrs. Parks and honor those plaintiffs, and even more importantly to honor the 40,000 African American men and women who stayed off of the buses for 382 days, it is indeed a step in the right direction," Gray told the Montgomery Advertiser.

Unemployed, their phones disconnected, and their neighbor having nefariously added a password to her WiFi account, something's got to change. Luckily for young Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik), his friend Min has recommended him as English tutor to Da-hye, daughter of the wealthy Park family. Class struggle is also at the forefront of Parasite, though it's based in an all-too authentic present day. But if Parasite is Bong Joon-ho's creation, it's Song Kang-ho who really brings it to life. Parasite is a triumph by a director who still hasn't really made a misstep.

Stormwater from the Addicks and Barker Reservoirs continues to flow into Buffalo Bayou, and people in the affected area are hoping the water keeps going down and out of their neighborhoods. On Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Addicks Reservoir through Friday. A truck carried Park’s neighbor’s car safely out of their flooded neighborhood and up to dry ground. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett said the Army Corps of Engineers was closely watching the Addicks and Barker Reservoirs release rates that would alleviate flooding. NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACTSHarris County law enforcement officials are reporting water in some streets in the Bear Creek Village subdivision adjacent to Addicks Reservoir (near Clay Road).

Gordon Parks courageous photography helped awaken America at the dawn of the civil rights era. He was a master of portraying people from every walk of life. But for years some of Parks’ most important early work seemed lost. Now, as Anthony Mason reports, a new generation of Americans can see it for themselves.

HOUSTON – Senator Ted Cruz says he feels energized after ending a marathon session of standing and speaking on the floor of the U.S. Senate to draw attention to his fight to de-fund the Affordable Care Act. The Texas Republican began speaking Tuesday afternoon and ended his verbal assault on the health care law nearly 22 hours later. "As a middle-aged cancer survivor I want and need health care," said Parks. "I just admire Ted Cruz. Witt says the new health care law will drive up the cost of coverage for her family of five and they are bracing for the financial hit.