The Southside Signal --weekly Publication

Week ending 4/7/2026

Houston’s Meals on Wheels program is undergoing a significant shift.  

After over 20 years, YWCA Houston is passing its Meals on Wheels operations to Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston, effective as soon as April 1.  

This transition isn’t a shutdown, but rather a handoff—ensuring roughly 950 local seniors keep receiving daily hot meals and wellness checks.  

Interfaith Ministries will expand service into 17 new zip codes, reaching neighborhoods like Third Ward, Sunnyside, and Magnolia Park.  

Seniors don’t need to act; services will continue on their regular schedule without interruption.  

However, funding remains a challenge, with a $100,000 gap to fully support the expansion as demand outpaces resources.  

Beyond nutrition, Meals on Wheels is vital—enabling seniors’ independence, health, and daily human connection.  

As Houston grows, supporting these essential programs becomes more urgent than ever.

Houston, TX — A local, veteran-owned business is making an impact at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center.

LaMont “The Waterman” Gilbert’s Absolutely Amazing Alkaline H2O recently launched a satellite retail location inside the facility, providing fresh alkaline water to veterans every day through his Hydration for Heroes initiative.

Since its debut, demand has soared, with several sell-out days underscoring the need for on-site healthy options tailored to veterans.

Gilbert, certified by the Texas Veterans Commission, is leveraging his status to bring meaningful change directly inside a trusted federal setting.

Plans for expansion include a mobile hydration unit and further partnerships with veteran-focused organizations.

Momentum is attracting attention from potential sponsors and community partners — signaling that for Gilbert and local veterans, this is just the beginning.

HOUSTON AREA, TX — A sweeping Texas ban on smokable hemp products takes effect March 31, forcing local retailers to clear their shelves overnight.

Shops in League City and beyond face sudden revenue losses—some estimate as much as 70% due to the new restrictions.

The regulations outlaw sales of hemp flower, pre-rolls, and other inhalable hemp items.

At the same time, annual licensing fees have soared to $10,000, squeezing small businesses even further.

The legal landscape is confusing: while smokable hemp is now banned in stores, THC edibles and drinks remain legal, though with tighter labeling rules.

Many Texans say they’ll simply buy smokable hemp online, shifting dollars out of state.

Independent retailers, especially, worry about surviving amid rising costs and unclear enforcement—fueling debate over whether the law may drive consumers toward unregulated markets.

Justin Pulliam, a controversial YouTuber known for his channel Corruption Report, is now facing serious legal action in Fort Bend County, Texas.

Pulliam built his audience by confronting police officers during live incidents, blurring the line between accountability and disturbance.

But in court, officials described Pulliam’s actions as deliberate taunting of law enforcement, raising concerns about public safety and officer interference.

This case has sparked a heated debate in the area about how far digital creators can go when recording police activity — and where free speech gives way to obstruction.

As “audit” videos continue to trend, local courts and communities are watching closely to see how cases like Pulliam’s may set precedent.

The boundary between content creation and legal consequences has never been thinner.

Houston is bracing for days of soaking rain and possible street flooding, while the real severe storms target North and West Texas.

Forecasters warn that areas from the Red River to the Rio Grande may see damaging winds, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes midweek—but Houston’s threat is all about the rain.

Multiple rounds of showers are set to roll through Southeast Texas.

With a stalling cold front, downpours intensify Thursday, boosting the risk of flooding in low-lying neighborhoods.

The main event arrives Saturday with a stronger system, higher moisture, and increased flooding potential.

A dramatic temperature drop follows the storms—expect highs to fall into the 60s and low 70s by Sunday, bringing cooler air just in time for Easter.

Locals should stay weather aware as the week unfolds.

The city of Houston is gripped with concern tonight as legendary Rockets center Hakeem Olajuwon reportedly suffered a severe stroke while asleep.

Known affectionately as “The Dream,” Olajuwon isn’t just an icon for basketball fans—he’s a symbol of pride and resilience throughout Houston.

From leading the Rockets to historic back-to-back championships in the mid-’90s to inspiring young athletes with his unparalleled “Dream Shake,” his impact resonates far beyond the court.

The outpouring of support has been immediate, as fans, former players, and local leaders rally with messages of hope.

While details about Olajuwon’s condition remain scarce, the seriousness of the news has united the city in anxious solidarity.

Houston stands together tonight, hoping for their hero’s recovery.

A shocking tragedy struck Houston’s Southside when 64-year-old Steven Anderson was killed outside his home on May 3, 2024.

Neighbors were left stunned as Anderson, a beloved retired cancer center manager, was fatally struck by a vehicle while he checked his mail.

Authorities report that 20-year-old Karon Fisher hit Anderson with her car, reversed, then hit him again before exiting the vehicle and continuing the attack.

Security camera footage of the incident deeply unsettled both investigators and residents alike.

Despite urgent efforts from neighbors to save him, Anderson’s injuries proved fatal.

Fisher, who had no known connection to Anderson, was arrested the same day and faces murder charges, with additional charges following related incidents after her arrest.

The motive remains unknown, leaving the community searching for answers and reeling from this senseless act.

One Idaho pizza delivery driver’s small act of kindness is inspiring thousands across the nation.  

Dan, a 68-year-old Domino’s driver, became a viral sensation after using his own money to buy a Diet Coke for a customer who forgot to order one.  

A doorbell camera captured the moment, showing Dan’s quiet generosity — he delivered the soda with no expectation of reward.  

After seeing the footage, the Wilson family launched a GoFundMe that quickly raised over $32,000, as support flooded in from all over.  

Dan’s story isn’t about a soft drink — it’s about honesty, hard work, and genuine kindness when no one’s watching.  

For many locals, his actions serve as a powerful reminder that real community spirit still exists.  

In a fast-moving world, the smallest gestures can leave the greatest impact.

Houston became the center of college basketball excitement during the NCAA Men’s Elite Eight, as top teams battled for Final Four spots on March 28–29, 2026.

Illinois displayed fierce defense, defeating Iowa 71–59 and advancing with confidence.

Arizona surged past Purdue 79–64, pulling away late after a close first half and claiming their semifinal place.

Michigan delivered an unforgettable performance, overwhelming Tennessee 95–62 in one of the tournament’s biggest routs.

In a dramatic showdown, UConn edged out Duke 73–72, surviving a last-second thriller that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

With Illinois, Arizona, Michigan, and UConn moving forward, Houston’s passionate crowd witnessed four worthy teams earn their shot at the National Championship.

The local Houston Cougars missed the cut, but the city’s energy made this Elite Eight unforgettable.

Houston’s 77087 zip code is quietly emerging as a stable, opportunity-rich pocket in the local real estate market.

Home prices hover around $245,000, edging up gently year-over-year, while inventory and days on market suggest healthy balance.

First-time buyers, investors, and families are showing strong interest, thanks to hotspots near Gulfgate Center, Mason Park, and William P. Hobby Airport.

Entry prices start near $200,000, and move-in-ready properties sell fast. Fixer-uppers offer long-term upside for those willing to renovate.

Sellers should focus on updated, energy-efficient homes, as today’s market favors properties that present well and are priced right.

On the rental side, demand remains high for affordable units, with many airport and industrial workers seeking value along Telephone Rd and park-adjacent areas.

In 77087, prices remain accessible, demand is consistent, and room for future growth is clear—making this one of Houston’s real estate best-kept secrets.

HOUSTON, TX – Easter Sunday sparked energy and connection throughout the city, with families flocking to parks, churches, and buzzing brunch spots from morning until night.

Egg hunts at Hermann Park and neighborhood greens brought Houstonians together, filling fields with laughter as kids raced for colorful prizes and parents captured memories against a backdrop of perfect spring weather.

Throughout River Oaks, The Heights, and Downtown, local restaurants served up signature Easter brunches—tables packed, reservations in demand, and traditional favorites like honey-glazed ham and fresh pastries taking center stage.

Church pews overflowed as congregations welcomed larger crowds, underlining Easter’s deep meaning for residents across Houston.

One rescue pup named “Bunny,” photographed in playful Easter ears, went viral—drawing attention to local shelters and inspiring the city.

This Easter, Houston truly showed up—celebrating tradition, family, and community spirit under sunny skies.