INTRO
✈️ Houston news is ready for takeoff this morning. From a flight that turned back shortly after leaving the runway (and resulted in an arrest) to new restaurants and local sports wins, there is plenty to catch up on today. Be sure to check out our Houston Then & Now segment for a quick look at how the city has changed over time.
In This Edition of Houstonicity:
Unruly Passenger Arrested After Houston Flight Returns
UH Removes Several Gender-Neutral Bathrooms
Kristen Hole Named Deputy Superintendent Of HISD Academics
And More…
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THE WEATHER VANE
Today: 80F | 67F |☁️| 19% Precipitation | SSW 10 MPH Winds
Friday: 77F | 64F |🌦️| 55% Precipitation | SE 13 MPH Winds
Saturday: 75F | 59F |🌤️| 22% Precipitation | NNW 18 MPH Winds
Sunday 70F | 51F |🌤️| 0% Precipitation | NNE 16 MPH Winds
Monday: 74F | 54F |☀️| 0% Precipitation | NNE 9 MPH Winds
HOUSTON’S NEWS
UNRULY PASSENGER ARRESTED AFTER HOUSTON FLIGHT RETURNS
A Delta flight from Houston to Atlanta had to turn back to Hobby Airport early Wednesday after a passenger caused a disturbance shortly after takeoff. Police were called and the person was taken into custody. I’m going to take this moment to say Thank You to the Houston Police. You are appreciated!
Delta said the cockpit was never breached, and things at the airport returned to normal soon after. The flight later took off again and reached Atlanta about 80 minutes behind schedule.
UH REMOVES SEVERAL GENDER-NEUTRAL BATHROOMS
Some University of Houston students came back from winter break to find a few all-gender restrooms on campus had been relabeled. The changes were made as the university began following a new Texas law about bathrooms in public buildings.
Students in the social work building said losing their only unisex option has been frustrating, even though other single stall restrooms exist elsewhere on campus. University officials say the updates were needed to comply with state law.
KRISTEN HOLE NAMED DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT OF HISD ACADEMICS
Houston ISD has created a new leadership role and promoted Chief of Academics Kristen Hole to deputy superintendent. In her new position, she will oversee both the academics and schools’ offices across the district.
District leaders say the move is meant to support new initiatives like artificial intelligence, accelerated math and a districtwide virtual school while keeping a clear and consistent vision for campuses.
HOUSTON MURALS THEN & NOW
A selection of iconic Houston Murals Then & Now
THEN
906 PRESTON ST., MARCH 2010
NOW
906 PRESTON ST.
THEN
5913 WASHINGTON AVE., APRIL 2011
NOW
5913 WASHINGTON AVE.
THEN
1100 Franklin St., April 2010
NOW
1100 Franklin St., Now
HOUSTON BUSINESS NEWS
VAST MAJORITY OF HOUSTON RESIDENTS STAYED AND DID NOT MOVE LAST YEAR
Most people in the Houston area stayed put last year. New data shows 86.7 percent of residents did not move in 2024, matching a nationwide slowdown in people changing homes. This conclusion is based on an analysis of data from Point2Homes.
Experts say low mortgage rates, rising home prices and high rent are making it tough to relocate. Houston still welcomed new residents from Texas, other states and abroad, but for many families, moving has become harder than it used to be.
LO-LO’S CHICKEN & WAFFLES COMING TO HOUSTON
Houston is getting a new soul food destination. Lo Lo’s Chicken and Waffles will open its first local restaurant on Feb. 21 at 3611 Gulf Freeway near EaDo and the Third Ward.
The family-owned restaurant, founded in 2002, built a strong following with its scratch made recipes and signature chicken and waffles. The new spot aims to be a gathering place for brunch, dinner and late-night meals, with a grand opening celebration planned.
HOUSTON SPORTS NEWS
UH BLACK ATHLETICS STAFFERS HAVE MAJOR IMPACT
Houston Athletics is using Black History Month to highlight the staff members who support student athletes behind the scenes every day. From academics and training to mental health and career guidance, these leaders help athletes grow far beyond their sport.
They also have real conversations about life after college, since only a small percent of athletes go pro. By building trust and showing what is possible, these mentors help students believe in new paths and future opportunities.
RICE BASEBALL CRACKS TWO HOMERUNS IN WIN OVER PURDUE
Rice bounced back Wednesday night with a 5 to 2 win over Purdue at Reckling Park. After being shut out the night before, the Owls responded with 13 hits and two home runs to finish the homestand strong.
Cole Green opened the scoring with a solo shot, and Colin Robson added a two-run homer later in the game. Jeremiah Arnett pitched into the seventh inning for the first time in his career, and freshman Ty Thames closed it out for his first save as Rice heads into a weekend series against USC.
ASTROS ZACH DEZENZO JOINS TEAM ITALY FOR WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC
Astros player Zach Dezenzo has a big spring ahead. He is trying to earn a spot on the team’s opening day roster while getting ready to play for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic.
Dezenzo said the chance to represent his heritage was an easy decision. After injuries cut last season short, he says he feels fully healthy and ready to take advantage of both opportunities.
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THANKS!
🛩️ Thanks for starting your day with Houstonicity. We will see you tomorrow with more local stories and updates. – O.B.