From Houston with Love

On February 12, Houston’s Guadalupe Plaza in the Second Ward hosted an immigration rally to protest Donald Trump’s current immigration agenda. This followed earlier protests held around the city.

Telemundo, KHOU, KPRC, and WB were there as well as many protestors and guests.

The event started off with a dance performance by La Micha Nation. This group uses dances and movement to protest injustice. Trae Tha Truth was also in attendance that night.

I spoke to some of those in attendance and was amazed by what they had to say.

One protestor, who asked to remain anonymous, questioned whether I was affiliated with any law enforcement agency. After I assured her that I was an independent journalist, she agreed to let me conduct an interview.

She told me she was originally from Mexico but had been a citizen for about 10 years. After hearing that, I knew why she was fearful of me at first and wanted to make sure I wasn’t affiliated with any law enforcement agency.

She told me she was there to support the immigrants and help the local community. “All are immigrants here and we need to keep families together,” she told me.

Another protestor’s story left me not only infuriated, but in absolute shock. She and her sister were camping in Big Bend National Park in El Paso one night, when their vehicle was stopped for no apparent reason. She told me the Border Patrol agents on duty profiled and then proceeded to detain her sister. The agents’ reason? The sisters are Hispanic and were suspected of being part of one of the Mexican cartels.

The protestor told me she was left infuriated by the way the Border Patrol agents treated them. She wants to stand up to Donald Trump’s bigotry and inhumane politics, while representing her true country. In the Texas Legislature’s 88th Special Session, she stood in defense of a bill that was being considered.

Frida Dame closed out the event by telling her own story. As a recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA program at 10 years old, she had no security for her younger sister. “Immigrants are here. They are the backbone of America,” she told the crowd. “America was built on the blood, sweat, and tears of immigrants.” She said this was going to be a long fight, but giving up wasn’t an option because knowledge and unity are power.

We need to support the immigrants here and let them know they are welcome. It’s going to take people like you to stand up to Donald Trump’s hardline and inhumane immigration policies.

Talk to your state representatives and senators. Talk to your representative in Washington, as well as senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn. Tell them you will not stand for the inhumane treatments of immigrants and to oppose legislation that gives law enforcement permission to round up people at any time and in any place.

The Hidden Dangers of Toddler Swim Equipment

We’ve all seen how the movies portray drowning-the splashing and noise, but this is far from reality. There are no splashes or noises and the water is calm.

Every year, too many toddlers drown in water related accidents. One person never thought it would happen to their then two-year-old son. As an ambassador for the Judah Brown Project, she works to make sure no family in Louisiana endures the pain of losing their toddler.

When asked how she got involved, she said after losing her two-year-old son to a drowning accident, she was told about the Judah Brown Project from a friend and loved what they did for families to spread awareness for drowning and became a part of this organization and helping to spread awareness in the state of Louisiana.

When asked what she wished she knew about drowning, it was that puddle jumpers, which are a combination of a life jacket, swim aid and swim vest, give children a false sense of security in water. A child slips their arms through the arm floats of the puddle jumper, and then the device is buckled behind the back to secure it.

What are some things new parents should know before signing up for swim lessons? Understanding that swim lessons are only a part of water safety and there are other layers of protection to be used to keep your child safe near any body of water. These include barriers & alarms to prevent a child from entering a body of water unsupervised as well as supervision. 

“Caregivers should always designate one person who is responsible for supervising children in, on or around water. That person should never take their eyes off the child, not even for a second,” says the website for Judah Brown Project.

Water Competency. Step or jump into the water over your head and try to return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute.

Life Jackets-when near, on or in the water, but especially when wading, swimming, fishing, boating or during any other water-related activity. You may not have time to put on your life jacket if you encounter a water hazard, slip while fishing or fall out of your vessel.

Emergency Preparation- Knowing how to do CPR is critical to restoring air movement after a drowning incident.

Never Swim Alone: The first and most important rule for water safety is to always use the buddy system. If swimming with small children, ensure they are always within arm's reach. 

One piece of equipment she wants to see gone is the notorious puddle jumper. The child wears this routinely while swimming confidently and returns to the water without it.

“Puddle Jumpers and floaties are notorious for helping children develop ineffective swimming posture. They are subconsciously training children to be in an upright and vertical position in the water- head up, feet down, arms out. This only expedites a drowning since the child struggles to stay afloat,” says the website for Judah Brown Project.

“Not one more” is not just a slogan for the Judah Brown Project, but their mission to educate new parents on the dangers of swim equipment and drowning.

If you want more information, or wish to donate, visit www.judahbrownproject.org.

Dash unable to beat Louisville

 On August 12, the Houston Dash took on Racing Louisville FC as part of Dynamo Charities weekend. 

Despite putting pressure on Louisville throughout the game, Houston was forced to walk away with a scoreless draw. 

During the third minute, the stadium said thank you to Dash legend Rachel Daly. 

Houston’s first chance at scoring would come in the fourth minute. Another chance would follow in the fifth, followed by a third opportunity in the eighth minute. 

Louisville’s first chance would be in the 10th minute. Three minutes later, a corner kick almost found its way to the net. 

Houston would have another chance to go up 1-0 in the 17th minute, but again came up short. 

Louisville would have a chance in the 22nd minute to break the scoreless draw, but came up empty. 

Houston’s best chance in the first half came in the 31st minute when Louisville bobbled the ball in front of the goal. Despite a clear shot, the ball went wide. 

Louisville would see the first disciplinary action in the 33rd minute when Satara Murray was called for a yellow card after tripping a Dash player in control of the ball. Murray would get her second yellow of the match for the same thing in the 44th minute and got ejected for accumulating two yellow cards in the match. 

In the 41st minute, Maria Sanchez had a good chance to score, but just missed. Houston had one more chance in the 44th minute to go up, but came up short. 

The second half saw Houston come out firing on all cylinders as they continued to pressure Louisville. 

Between the 53rd and 56th minute, Houston had four good chances to score. Unfortunately, three of those shots went right to the goalkeeper. 

Louisville’s Gemma Banter would see the third yellow card of the match in the 60th minute after a bad foul was called. 

From there, Houston continued the pressure, but came up short. 

The Dash play Wednesday against Gotham FC and hope to continue their playoff push. 

Dynamo 2 pound Sporting Kansas City 2 to win season series

On August 7, the Houston Dynamo 2 took on Sporting Kansas City 2 in the third and final regular season matchup between the teams. 

Houston pressured Sporting KC 2 from the start and walked away with a convincing 3-0 victory. Even with the win, Houston still sits in third place in the Western Conference standings with 39 points. 

Houston’s first big chance at a goal would come in the 20th minute. Between the 21st and 37th minutes, Houston would get five good chances, but couldn’t find the goal. Two more first half chances would come before Marcelo Palomino would find the back of the net in stoppage time to put Houston up 1-0. 

Kansas City would get their first good chance in the 42nd minute when a nice setup turned into a denial in the penalty box. Kansas City would try again only to be denied at the goal. 

Discipline would play a role as both teams received their share of yellow cards. 

Kansas City 2 would get the first yellow in the 21st minute. Juan Castilla would get Houston’s first yellow card in the 33rd minute. Beto Avila would get a controversial yellow for “kicking the ball” in the 40th minute. I asked him after the game and he told me that the ball was never kicked. Kansas City 2’s Jacob Davis would get called for a yellow in the 41st minute. The final yellow would be in first half stoppage time when Kansas City 2’s #44 would get one. 

The second half would pretty much be a repeat of the first half as Houston continued pressuring Kansas City 2. 

The first chance for either team to score would be when Kansas City 2 would be denied a goal in the 47th minute. 

Houston then would find the back of the net in the 48th minute when Brooklyn Raines sent the ball past the keeper to put Houston up 2-0. Three more chances for Houston to score would come between the 59th and 63rd minute. 

Kansas City 2 would get a chance to cut the deficit in half on a free kick, only to send it right to the keeper. 

Houston’s third and final goal would be in the 77th minute when Kyle Edwards sent one past the keeper and made it 3-0. That would be the final score. 

The Dynamo control their playoff fate now. With the top four advancing, every point matters now. 

The next game is August 14 against the Colorado Rapids 2. Kickoff is set for 8 pm. 

Dash beat Red Stars

Coming off a loss to Orlando, the Houston Dash returned to the win column in Juan Carlos Amorós’ first game in charge, beating the Chicago Red Stars by a score of 4-1 Saturday night at PNC Stadium. The Red Stars came into the match on a nine-game unbeaten streak but Ebony Salmon stole the show to end their run and give Houston a big three points.

Salmon put the Dash in front after just eleven minutes, pressing the Chicago back line into a turnover. The English striker pressured Chicago defender Zoe Morse all the way back to her goal which pressured goalkeeper Emily Boyd into a bad pass. Boyd’s pass was intercepted by Shea Groom who squared the ball back into the middle to Salmon, whose shot deflected off Amanda Kowalski and into the back of the net.

The goal was Salmon’s first for the Dash after being acquired in a trade at the end of June. It certainly wouldn’t be her last, as Salmon gave the Red Stars’ defense fits the whole match. She nearly doubled her tally on the night after a brilliant solo run, but Boyd came out and made a huge save to keep the match 1-0.

Goalkeeper Lindsey Harris made three saves in the first half including a huge one to deny Ella Stevens in a one-on-one situation. Harris started the match in place of Jane Campbell who was ruled out of the match due to COVID protocols.

Salmon doubled her goal haul and the Dash lead in second half stoppage time. Defender Natalie Jacobs sent a long ball down the right sideline and Salmon outraced everyone to get on the end of it. She wasted no time when she got to the ball, smashing her first touch past Chicago goalkeeper Emily Boyd.

Houston came out in the second half still flying and Salmon bagged her hat-trick in the 55th minute. A Chicago corner was cleared and the Red Stars were left out-numbered on the counter. Ryan Gareis flew forward and picked out Salmon with a through ball to unlock the back line. Salmon calmly smashed the ball low and hard past Boyd to score the second hat-trick in Houston Dash history. Nichelle Prince got the first earlier this season, scoring three against the Orlando Pride. 

The Dash played extremely well in a match they came into with so many things against them. Campbell and defender Julia Ashley were ruled out due to COVID protocols to add to the six players already out for Houston on international duty. It was also Amorós’ first match in charge after just arriving in town this week to lead trainings. Players like Harris, Gareis, and Jacobs stepped up and had huge performances in a match where team needed them in a big way. 19 year-old Paulina Gramaglia made her Dash debut in the second half of the match, becoming the youngest player to appear in a match for Houston.

Sam Fisher grabbed a goal in the 88th minute to ruin the shutout for the Dash and Harris. The rookie scored her first NWSL goal as she was able to get alone in front of Harris and put Chicago on the board. The disappointment of losing the shutout was short-lived as Joelle Anderson ended the big night for Houston, opening her NWSL account with a goal in stoppage time. Anderson’s shot from the top of the box was on goal and Boyd’s attempt at a save was bundled into the net.

Next up for the Dash will be a trip to the Big Apple to take on NJ/NY Gotham FC on July 31. Houston’s Canadian contingent of Nichelle Prince, Sophie Schmidt, and Allysha Chapman should be available for that game after they wrap up CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying on Monday against the United States.

KC Current knock off Houston Dash 2-1

The Houston Dash returned from the international break to take on the Kansas City Current at PNC Stadium. With a number of starters still out on international duty, Houston struggled to get going and fell by a final score of 2-1.

The game got off to a good start with both teams finding their feet after some extended time off. Neither team able to find the back of the net, with a few chances on both ends. Ebony Salmon was able to break behind the defense a couple of times but could not finish. The score remained 0-0 until the 42nd minute. 

A corner kick for Kansas City would end up being recycled in to the box. The cross was sent back in and Shea Groom got in front of the ball to block it. The referee pointed to the spot for a hand ball on Groom, resulting in a penalty kick for the Current. Lo’eau LaBonta would find the back of the net, beating Jane Campbell down the middle, to make it 1-0 at the half.

After the match, acting head coach Sarah Lowdon spoke aboout the team’s mentality after the penalty and going in to the half down a goal. “Yeah, I mean I think you know listen at halftime we were in this game like I thought we had some really good spells of possession,” Lowdon said. “I thought we created some really good opportunities we just didn’t have that finish and I think that’s kind of been the story in the other games too. The penalty, we are still in that game. It happens right before halftime it felt like we actually played them at their place and we got a penalty right before halftime so it changes obviously a little bit at halftime in terms of kind of the message but again the second goal kills us. It’s just, it’s tough to concede right after the second half and yeah, again I think we definitely created more opportunities in the second half and just unfortunate that we couldn’t get something out of this game tonight.”

The Dash needed to rebound in the second half but the deficit was doubled in the first minute after the break. A goal in the 46th minute by Hailie Mace would make it 2-0 to the Current and give Houston an uphill battle. 

Houston fought until the end. Ryan Gareis’ cross deep into stoppage time was defelcted in for an own goal by Elizabeth Ball to make it 2-1 Kansas City. The final whistle would blow not long after and that would be the final score.

Ebony Salmon had some good chances in her debut, after being acquired in a trade with Racing Louisville earlier this week, but she was unable to find the back of the net. “For me it is always good that I am getting the most goal scoring opportunities,” Salmon said after the match. But I have to make sure that I am taking chances and clinically in front of the goal.”

The Dash travel to Orlando to face the Orlando Pride for their next match on Friday, July 8. That game will stream on Twitch. The next home match is Saturday, July 16 against the Chicago Red Stars. 

Dash routed by Thorns to end unbeaten run

On June 12, the Portland Thorns came to town to take on the Houston Dash for the annual Pride Night match at PNC Stadium. From the opening minute, nothing went in Houston’s favor as the Thorns walked away with a 4-0 victory.

Portland went ahead in the first minute of the match. Katie Naughton got her leg on a cross into the Houston box but could only redirect it past Jane Campbell and in her own net. This turned out to be an omen for how the whole match would go.

Abby Smith doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute. Portland would take their lead in to halftime, looking comfortable on a very hot Houston evening.

The Thorns would add another goal in the 75th minute when 16-year-old Olivia Moultrie became the youngest player in NWSL history to find the back of the net. Moultrie got the start after Christine Sinclair was a late scratch from the lineup. The teenager made the most of her opportunity with a goal and an assist.

Moultrie’s assist came on Portland’s fourth and final goal of the evening, Sophia Smith’s second of the contest. Smith was able to score off a scramble in the box, just sneaking her shot over the line. The USWNT striker is in fine form, taking home player of the match honors with her brace and an assist on Moultrie’s assist.

The result was very disappointing for a team that has been in such great form and on a long unbeaten run. Midfielder Bri Visalli spoke after the match about the disappointment. “Initial reactions are just disappointing, we were on a great roll, this is not ideally how we want to come off it either,” Visalli said in the post-match press conference. “We don’t want to stop the streak that we are on, obviously, it is bound to happen at some point, but this definitely wasn’t our night. Quite frankly, very disappointing, a lot of people dug deep, we can reflect on that and figure that out moving forward.”

Acting head coach Sarah Lowdon was very straight forward with her thoughts on the performance after the match. “We can always be better, and tonight is a humbling experience and credit to Portland, tough days happen and it’s how you respond.” Lowdown also spoke about how this loss can be a humbling experience and how the team will respond. “It’s a humbling experience, but I know the character of this team and I’m confident that they will respond accordingly and positively,” Lowdon said. “That’s the main thing I think again like you know the season isn’t decided on one loss, so there is a long way to go, and we learn from this. You got to see a lot of players that potentially haven’t seen many minutes and it was a great opportunity for them tonight.”

Next up for the Dash is an away trip to take on the North Carolina Courage on Sunday, June 19. The next home match is July 1st against the Kansas City Current. That match is a 713 night so make sure you get out to PNC Stadium.

Dash smash Pride

On Friday, June 2, the Houston Dash took on the Orlando Pride at PNC Stadium. The Dash came into this match riding a lengthy unbeaten streak, looking to stay near the top of the table in the National Women’s Soccer League. Everything went the way of Houston on the night as the team romped to a 5-0 victory.

Nichelle Prince got the party started in the 28th minute. Captain Rachel Daly played Prince through on goal and after beating Pride keeper Erin McLeod, Prince’s shot was deflected into the net by former Dash defender Megan Montefusco.

Daly would continue the scoring with a goal in the 32nd minute off a fantastic feed from Maria Sanchez. The Mexican international whipped a ball in from long range on the left to a sprinting Daly. The Englishwoman got her head on the ball perfectly to get her shot on frame and over a helpless McLeod to give Houston a 2-0 lead.

Prince would take over the game from there to leave no doubt about the result. Her second goal, and the Dash’s third, came just before halftime. She darted down the left side, cut back in on her right foot and again sent a shot that Montefusco could only help into her own net.

The Canadian international finished off her hat trick, the first in club history in the 49th minute. Sanchez and Shea Groom worked the ball once again down the left side. Groom took a heavy challenge on the end line but was able to find Prince. The heroine of the evening chipped McLeod with a perfectly weighted effort to make the score line 4-0.

Michelle Aloize would end the party with a goal in the 87th minute, the first of her NWSL career. The Nigerian international was in on goal moments before and missed the net, but she made no doubt this time of asking. Groom played Alozie through from her own half and she was able to hold off the defender and then calmly slot her shot past McLeod to make the final score 5-0.

Nichelle Prince spoke after the match about just how big the win was for the team. “It’s huge,” Prince told the media in the postgame press conference. “We are going into every game fighting for a win and not taking anything for granted or letting teams get into the game. I think we know that we are a really good team when we are playing our best and fighting for each other and when we are following the game plan. When we don’t do that then the game can be different - we are trying to be consistent and bring our game every week.”

Captain Rachel Daly was extremely proud of her teammate and her performance. “Yeah, she needs her name in lights tonight,” Daly said after the match. “She was absolutely brilliant. I’ve said before she’s so underrated and she’s such a phenomenal player. She works so hard and she’s a true professional — everyday she comes in she grinds. She works her ass off, sorry excuse my French, but she is an angel on and off the field and she was absolutely fantastic tonight. I couldn’t be more proud and happy for her.”

With the win, Houston now sits tied for second place with the Chicago Red Stars, two points behind first place San Diego Wave FC. The top six teams make the playoffs. The Dash are back in action tomorrow night, looking to go top of the table if they can beat newcomers Angel City FC. The match kicks off at 9:00 PM central time and can be watched on Paramount+.

The top six teams make the playoffs.

 

Dash pick up a point in draw with North Carolina Courage

The Houston Dash returned to PNC Stadium on Sunday night to face the reigning NWSL Challenge Cup Champion. North Carolina Courage. The Dash returned home for the first time since going 2-0-1 on a three-game road trip. The 7-point road trip looked to give Houston some momentum as they returned to the Bayou City against a formidable opponent.

The Dash went behind early when a mix-up in the back allowed the visitors to pounce. Rookie Diana Ordonez put the Courage in front in the 25th minute.

Houston had several chances to score in the first half and North Carolina looked to be on the verge of taking their lead to the locker room. Dash captain Rachel Daly, in her 100th NWSL appearance had other plans. Daly got on the end of a nicely weighted pass from Nichelle Prince and was able to push the ball past Courage keeper Casey Murphy. Daly kept her composure and smashed her shot through the retreating defenders to equalize in first half stoppage time.

Daly spoke about her goal after the match with the media. “Nichelle (Prince) and I have played together for a really long time now, Daly said. “I think there was a great pickup by, I’m pretty sure, it was Sophie (Schmidt) in the midfield. Yeah, we’ve got good chemistry now, me and Nichelle, and the thing you know, we’ve been working on a lot during the week — the last few weeks. Obviously, she assisted me quite similarly in Portland last week. I think we’re kind of getting on the same page now. We’ve played together for a long time now. So, it was a great, great ball from her. The keeper is a great keeper, she’s big. She’s obviously, she covers the goal really well. She’s tall, very tall. And I thought, you know, maybe I would have dinked over in another game. But I know how tall she is. She got a great hand to my volley, right before that. So, I thought the only option was to go around her. And then yeah, I think on the finish, I just needed to hit it high.”

Both teams came out firing in the second half, but could not find the back of the net. North Carolina finished the match with a 60/40 possession advantage but the Dash had 15 shots to the Courage’s 5. The match would end in a 1-1 draw with both teams picking up a point.

Acting head coach Sarah Lowdon spoke about the performance after the match. “I’m very proud of how the club honored the victims of Uvalde, and we will continue to help support that community moving forward, Lowdon said to the media in her press conference. “So that’s the first thing I’d like to say. We don’t take any points for granted in this league. There’s so much parity whether you’re 4-0 or 0-4. We value wins at home, I thought the first half we struggled, we give the ball away way too much, especially in central areas, lots of turnovers. Second half, we were better. Again, we’re better than the first half. In the first like 10 minutes, we had chances, I thought that we on another day put away. It’s those chances that kind of haunt us later in the game. We have obviously had a couple of games where we’ve conceded late goals. Overall, obviously, to come up with a point at home, obviously, we want to get three points. We have to make sure we pick up points and we will take a point as well. When we’re at home, we’re always looking for those three points.”

Houston returns to PNC Stadium on Friday night to face the Orlando Pride. The Dash will host a pregame ceremony before the match to commemorate Daly’s 100 appearances.

Yellow Rose Coach competes in Ironman Texas

It’s called the world’s most difficult athletic event: the Ironman Triathlon. The course consists of a 2.1 mile swim, a 140 mile bike ride, and a marathon. Those who finish the event in the allotted time are called Ironman. 

I spoke to one of the coaches at Yellow Rose Fitness and got her take on the event after completing five previous Ironman Texas events. 

She said the swim is by far the hardest leg and the most difficult to train for since she doesn’t have easy access to a lake or lap pool. She has come a LONG way since her first event, but still feels there is a lot of room for improvement. She knows a lot of fast swimmers that she compares herself to. She has no problem swimming long distances, but is not as fast as she wants to be. 

Her charity of choice is the IRONMAN Foundation. The charity raises funds for IRONMAN events around the world to directly support the communities hosting events. Nonprofits in the communities that align with the IMF’s vision can apply for grants from the available funds raised. Most of the grant money goes toward facilitating aid stations and volunteer activities to make an event successful  

One of the organizations near and dead to the coach’s heart that has received funds is a non-profit for athletes with disabilities. “I have volunteered in the past by guiding blind athletes and those with amputations in local races. They provide hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants for amputee athletes to get running legs/blades, blind athletes to get bus passes to get to Memorial Park to train, race entries, running gear, tandem bikes, and the list goes on. At the end of the day, it’s a community of athletes supporting like-minded efforts in the community,” she said in an email interview.

“The swim presents many challenges, but it also is a production because I have to work with the available lap swim times at the pools available and/or a Masters swim schedule that also can be quite a drive in Houston traffic. My skin and hair also are not fans of the chlorine, so I have to shower after or I end up super itchy. One day I’ll be able to wake up and go for an open water swim in my backyard. It might not be until I retire, but mark my word, it will happen,” she said. 

“Crossing the finish line is always special, but each is also slightly different.  I’ve also developed a routine of cartwheeling across the finish line (after I stop my Garmin of course). On April 23, it was even more special because my husband volunteered and was able to give me the medal for the first time and that came with a giant hug for beating my previous record.” She doesn’t think there were any tears this time. “I’m pretty emotional and I’ve shed my fair share of happy (and sad) tears across finish lines over the years. I was happy with my finish, but not ecstatic, if that makes sense. Once you’ve done a few of these, you’re either out there to tally up the finishes for some personal goal or you’re out there to crush your previous performances at the distance, and I set some pretty high goals for myself. I was able to walk away with a PR, and I’m not mad about that.” 

Having shaved three minutes off the run from her previous record on a pretty hot and windy day was no easy task. “I’m happy with that, but hungry for more. I’m also more thrilled to finally land in the top 10 in my age group in a full IRONMAN out of 75 starters. I was 27th out of the water and came in 8th off the bike with a bike split in the top 5. I held on to 8th for most of the marathon, but finished in 9th. The bike is clearly my strong suit and also where I feel I can make the most gains, but I also know I’m capable of a faster run. Getting faster on the swim can save me a few minutes, but it all adds up.”

Will she set a new record, or will this year's record stand? Only next year's event will tell.

Dash fall to Chicago Red Stars in Challenge Cup Opener

The Houston Dash faced the Chicago Red Stars in the first game of the 2022 Challenge Cup for both teams.

Katie Naughton and the Dash would strike first in the 19th minute off a free kick after Chicago’s Bianca St. Georges was issued a yellow card in the 18th minute.

The Red Stars would tie the match in the 27th minute with a goal by Mal Pugh.

That would be the halftime score.

The second half turned out to work in Chicago’s favor when Arin Wright converted a controversial penalty kick in the 57th minute. Two minutes later, Mal Pugh would put another one in to make it 3-1 Chicago.

That would be the final score.

The Dash take on the Kansas City Current on March 30 at 7:30 pm. That match will be at PNC Stadium. Tickets are available through the SeatGeek app.

METRORapid Inner Katy Project

 As part of the METRONext plan that was approved by voters, another METRORapid project will run along the Inner Katy Corridor from Northwest Transit Center to the downtown Central Business District and terminating near the Convention District with a possible termination near the EaDo/Stadium Light Rail Station.

On January 31, METRO representatives held a virtual public hearing to give an update on the project and receive public input.

The main reason for the project is the growing congestion along IH-10 between Downtown and Northwest Transit Center. There is currently no dedicated bus lane between Northwest Transit Center and Studemont. This forces buses to use the busy main lanes to get into Downtown, which only adds to travel time. METRORapid’s Inner Katy project would add a faster connection to the Downtown area. METRORapid, Park and Ride routes, and Express Routes would all benefit from this. A dedicated elevated platform would be strictly for bus use. This has a lot of support and could add more stations to the METRORapid line.

Right now, the proposed stations are at Memorial Park, Yale, TC Jester, and Houston, with Shepherd/Durham and Studemont having been set already. Memorial Park is a busy area and could be a good spot for a station. The problem with Yale and TC Jester is the proximity to the Shepherd/Durham and Studemont stations. This could draw riders away and decrease ridership. The problem with the Houston station is that there is too much congestion and no good place to put a station. METRO is planning on going with stations at Northwest Transit Center, Memorial Park, Shepherd/Durham, and Studemont and then making the route head into Downtown.

When asked why stations before Downtown will not be at street level, METRO said that it is a safety hazard.

Once the bus gets into Downtown, the plan is to use the existing Light Rail Lane for the bus. Current stations in Downtown are the Theater District, Central Station, and Convention District, with Franklin/Bagby and EaDo stations being proposed.

With a growing city and the need to plan for the future, METRO needs to expand instead of using current infrastructure for new projects. With Bus Rapid Transit, there is no need to lay rail.

The light rail and METRORapid will have separate signals in Downtown. Hours of operation are planned to start at 4:30 am and end at midnight every day.

If you are wondering when the project gets underway, construction is slated to start in 2024 with service commencing in 2027.

You can find out more by visiting www.ridemetro.org/Pages/METRORapid-Inner-Katy.aspx

METRORapid to start University Corridor project

With the initial success of the METRORapid Silver Line between Northwest Transit Center and Westpark/Lower Uptown Transit Center along Post Oak Boulevard, METRORapid is expected to break ground on the University Corridor Project, running from Westchase Park and Ride to Tidwell Transit Center. The project is divided into five segments.

Segment 1 runs from Westchase Park and Ride to Westpark/Lower Uptown Transit Center. This segment connects the busy Westchase District to Lower Uptown while also servicing Gessner and Hillcroft Park and Ride Lots. At Westpark/Lower Uptown Transit Center, riders can transfer to Westwood/West Bellfort/TMC Park and Ride, METRORapid Silver Line, and the Canal/Memorial local bus route.

Segment 2 connects Westpark/Lower Uptown Transit Center to Wheeler Transit Center near Richmond Avenue and US 59 Southwest Freeway, while also servicing the busy Greenway Plaza area and the University of St. Thomas. At Wheeler Transit Center, riders can transfer to METRORail Red Line as well as local bus routes.

Segment 3 connects Wheeler Transit Center to Eastwood Transit Center near Elgin and Interstate Highway 45 Gulf Freeway while also servicing Houston Community College Main Campus, Third Ward, University of Houston, and Texas Southern University where riders can transfer to the METRORail Purple Line. At Eastwood Transit Center, riders can transfer to Park and Ride routes servicing the Gulf Freeway Corridor as well as local bus routes.

Segment 4 connects Eastwood Transit Center to Denver Harbor/Fifth Ward Transit Center near the Port of Houston and the Houston Ship Channel while also servicing the Second Ward area. Riders can transfer to the METRORail Green Line along Harrisburg. At Denver Harbor/Fifth Ward Transit Center, riders can transfer to local bus routes.

Segment 5 connects the Denver Harbor/Fifth Ward Transit Center to LBJ Hospital and Tidwell Transit Center while also servicing the Kashmere Gardens area. At Tidwell Transit Center, riders can transfer to local bus routes after ending their trip on the METRORapid University Corridor line.

Running more than 25 miles, in a dedicated lane, the University Corridor line is expected to help ease congestion in some of Houston’s busiest areas. This will help build stronger communities and bring about better access to mass transit in the region.

Better access starts with moving more people and taking more cars off the road. It also will invest in communities serviced by providing top of the line service and bringing more connectivity to other METRO services. 

Along the route, riders can transfer to METRORail Red, Green, and Purple Lines, METRORapid Silver Line, 5 transit centers, 3 Park and Ride lots, and multiple local bus routes.

Stronger communities start with serving projected dense population growth along the route. It also will advance transportation equity with additional choices for the area and support a sustainable, healthy future for the region. Communities expected to benefit include Gulfton, Uptown, Greenway Plaza, Montrose, Midtown, Third Ward, Eastwood, Second Ward, Fifth Ward, Kashmere Gardens, and Eastex/Jensen. Colleges and universities expected to benefit include Houston Community College System, University of St. Thomas, Texas Southern University, and University of Houston.

Starting in late 2021, Project Development is expected to commence and end sometime in early 2023. This will be followed by the engineering phase, which is expected to end in early 2025. Shortly after that, construction will start until service commences sometime in 2028.

You can get all the details and attend virtual open houses by visting metrorapid-ucp.com 

Redistricting and low morale could be trouble for Democrats

A growing sense of gloom is developing among Democrats in Congress with less than a year before the 2022 midterm elections. With every Democrat that announces they’re not seeking reelection, the mood worsens.

Morale in Congress is already low among Democrats. As they look ahead to 2022 and what could be a trying election cycle, the belief is that the retirement wave has yet to crash.

23 members of the House Democratic Caucus have already announced they will not seek reelection in 2022. While high profile retirements by the party in power are not uncommon before a difficult midterm election cycle, the sentiment now is that more departures are coming. A combination of political winds tilting to the Republicans that has carved up what were once easy races for Democrats and low morale among House members could spell disaster before the 2022 elections.

“We have a problem here,” Representative Cherri Bustos said. “There are way too many people serving as members of Congress that I not only don’t look up to, but also have no respect for. I hate to even have to say that.”

First elected in 2012, and representing Western Illinois, Bustos announced earlier this year that she was retiring. “I’m looking for a new chapter in my life,” she told CNN. It’s clear though the current standing of Congress loomed over the decision. “While there are some Democrats who aren’t team players, the bulk of them are Republicans who refuse to raise the deficit in order to help put people back to work. At the same time, they ballooned the deficit when they passed former President Trump’s tax cuts.”

“When you only have a three-or-four-vote majority and you see people in tough districts announcing they will not seek another term, everybody worries about what’s ahead,” Bustos stated.

Republicans have also seen some powerful members announce they will not seek reelection. Kevin Brady, the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, announced he will retire and become CEO of the Trump Media and Technology Group.

Retirements are a problem for Democrats, as the party in power, simply cannot afford. With a very slim majority in the House and polls showing a potential Republican swing, any slight change can prove disastrous.

What’s even more worrisome is retirements are stacking up. Representative Peter DeFazio of Oregon, and chair of the House Infrastructure and Transportation Committee, announced he will not seek reelection. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, and chair of the House Space, Science, and Technology Committee, announced she will not run for reelection as well. Kentucky Representative John Yarmouth, who chairs the House Budget Committee, also will not seek reelection.

It’s not just committee chairs that worry Democrats. It’s also districts that will be difficult to keep in 2022. Wisconsin Representative Ron Kind, who represents a district that voted for Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020, announced he will not seek reelection. Republicans are confident they can flip the seat in 2022. Arizona Representative Ann Kirkpatrick, who represents the state’s Second District, announced she will retire as well. Before her 2018 victory, the district was held by a Republican. New York Representative Tom Suozzi announced his intent to run for governor and will vacate his Long Island District. The seat could become competitive if Democrats face a difficult cycle.

All of the retirements have been hailed by Republicans. “Every retirement demoralizes Democrats further and forces them to spend more on defending competitive seats,” Michael McAdams, who is a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, said. “No one wants to run as a Democrat this cycle.”

So far though, Democratic leaders – at least publicly – are rejecting the idea Democrats have a retirement problem.

“It’s pretty standard stuff. Anybody who serves in this Congress knows these are personal decisions. I’m not that worried about it. I think Republicans are going to have at least one good idea for America. They can’t do it with tricks and stacking the deck,” Senator Patrick Maloney, who chairs the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, told CNN’s Manu Raju.

There is a sense inside the caucus that things are not what Maloney and others want the public to believe.

Representative Filemòn Vela, a Texas Democrat who announced earlier this year he will not seek reelection, believes Democrats will do fine if they can get control of inflation and COVID by the summer. “I won’t say we keep the majority because it is such a tough cycle. If by November, we are still in the middle of the COVID crisis and inflation is sky high, we have a problem.”

Vela also added that if those issues continue to pester Democrats, you have the same problem you did in 2010 when Democrats lost 63 seats and control of the House. “It’s a valid concern. If we had been in the middle of midterms earlier this year, I think seats like mine would have been lost. I don’t think that will happen next year.”

Major League Soccer to diversify hiring process

 Major League Soccer announced that effective immediately, teams will be required to advance at least two non-White candidates to the final round of interviews. The league previously required teams looking for new coaches or staff members to interview at least one “diverse candidate,” similar to the National Football League’s “Rooney Rule.” The policy has been updated to require teams to keep at least two non-White candidates in every round of the interview process. Teams that fail to follow the guidelines will be fined. The league will also update the hiring requirements every year.

New England Revolution goalkeeper Earl Edwards was one of the players who helped develop the new policy. He commended the decision as a step towards a real culture shift of working together openly and transparently. Colorado Rapids Coach Robin Fraser, who also helped develop the policy, said that it would give more exposure to Black candidates and create more opportunities within the black community.

Here are the notable updates to the MLS policy:

• Teams will be required to advance at least two non-White candidates to the final round of job interviews, and one of the candidates must be Black or African American.

• Teams must provide proof that they have created an equal interview process for all candidates.

• The league will expand its definition of underrepresented groups to include "Black or African American, Hispanic/Latino(a), American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders, Canadian Indigenous, Canadian First Nations, Women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community."

• Teams must publicize vacant positions to a league-wide diversity portal.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber stated that when the league was founded in December 1993 as part of the United States’ bid to host the 1994 World Cup, a clear and purposeful focus on diverse hiring practices is necessary for any organization to succeed. He believes the changes made today and to the work began before the inaugural season in 1996 will continue to diversify the league at every level. The new policy will ensure more Black candidates will be interviewed for technical positions and will result in tangible changes to the racial makeup of technical staffs across the league.

The updated policy is one of several initiatives designed to combat a growing problem of racism throughout professional soccer. The league also has a diversity committee made up of staff, head coaches, club executives, current, and former players to help ensure MLS is open to all players.

Dash miss playoffs; look ahead to 2022 season

The Houston Dash fell to the Washington Spirit on Halloween and missed the playoffs. Needing a win or draw, the Dash lost 1-0 to the eventual NWSL champions.

When asked about the season, head coach James Clarkson told The Striker Texas he does not know where to start.

“It’s for sure been a rough time. You’ve had the pandemic and the Olympics. That’s made it difficult for everybody to stay completely focused on soccer.”

When asked why players tend to stay in Houston, Clarkson said that it begins with treating the players as humans. “They're just regular people that happen to be good at soccer. I don't look at them as just soccer players. I think it's important that there’s a balance there. Everybody has an opinion. Everybody wants to express their opinion. And I think it's important that we create an environment where people feel comfortable doing that and knowing that they have the support of the staff and the organization.”

Since becoming the head coach prior to the 2019 season, Clarkson has made it clear that the organization will not tolerate harassment or bad behavior. “This is a place where you can express yourself. Regardless of race, religion or whatever it is. This is an environment that we're trying to create where everybody's in. It's an inclusive environment and in their day to day, we want to make sure that it's a place that they really want to come to work.”

What started out as a promising season turned out to be the opposite. The Dash have yet to win the NWSL Cup since joining the league in 2014.

“It's obviously disappointing. There's a lot of reflection going on.”

I said this to the players, as we got into that final quarter of the season. If we don't achieve what we'd set out to do this year, we'll have missed a really big opportunity. And we missed a really big opportunity. It's the last time that that team is going to be together. It's been a good run, but we will look back on this, not just now or next season, but over time, and it will be really tough to deal with because we've really missed a massive, massive opportunity,” Clarkson said.

“I look at the performances all over the season. We've been inconsistent. There's been some outstanding performances. And then there haven't necessarily been too many horrific ones. Reign away was obviously the worst. There’s been too many individual errors this year that have cost us goals, that have cost us points,” Clarkson said about missing the playoffs.

Clarkson's next step is figuring out who he will protect between Jane Campbell and Kristie Mewis, who are both on the U.S. Women's National Team. Only one can be protected. 

When asked about the changes he would like to see, Clarkson said that he wants to see higher standards in facilities. “We also need more fans. I'd love for us to have 10,000, 12,000 in the building. The atmosphere some days when there's been 4,000 has been great. The support of the fans this year has been terrific. That would be one of the highlights of the year, is the support of the fans at home. But how do we double that? That's where we need to get to. I was down in Mexico City the other week. I went to watch Club America against Tigres and there were 10,000 people. It feels important when it's full. That's a proper atmosphere. It's a proper game of football. That's what we need throughout the league. Hopefully, we can get there,” Clarkson said. 

Another thing that Clarkson said needs to change is how the media covers the NWSL. “I think there needs to be better media coverage, there needs to be better TV coverage. There needs to be much more coverage of the teams. Not just locally, but nationally, there needs to be much more attention put on it. We only get reported on when there's bad things, and then everybody jumps on the bandwagon. They're missing the fact the product on the field is outstanding.”

Will any of Clarkson's wishes come true? Can the Dash finally hoist the NWSL Cup? We won't know until the 2022 season gets underway. 

Ted Segal holds first interview with Dynamo and Dash fans

 Ted Segal holds first interview with Dynamo and Dash fans

On September 14, new Dynamo and Dash majority owner Ted Segal had a chance to answer questions from fans.

Questions ranged from how he plans on rebuilding the teams to what’s next for BBVA Stadium.

When asked about how he plans to build a contentious team, Segal replied that spending should not be near the bottom of the league due to the size of the Houston media market. He also said that having most of the lower bowl closed off for Dash games does not make a good impression. “We want to have the entire lower bowl filled for Dash games and hopefully have the stadium completely sold out with every seat filled.” He added that even a full lower bowl is better for marketing the teams.

“One thing that will help is to bring more fans to Dash games. That will allow us to open up more seats and potentially draw in television revenue since most Dash games are only available online.”

When asked what he’s looking for in a general manager, Segal said that past success is going to be a large factor. “Whether it’s in Major League Soccer or FIFA, someone with a proven track record of winning will be at the top of the list. They also need to have a proven track record of successfully developing their youth league or academy.”

Will the new GM and majority owner turn the teams around, or will Houston once again be denied a soccer championship? The last time either the Dash or Dynamo won a championship was in 2007 when the Dynamo won the MLS Cup for a second time in a row.

Dash defeat NC Courage, fall to Portland Thorns

 On July 17, the Houston Dash faced current NWSL champion NC Courage and walked away with a 2-1 victory. This was Houston’s second win over the Courage in team history. Playing in her 100th NWSL game, Shea Groom got the scoring started in the 9th minute on an assist by Veronica Latsko. Seven minutes later, North Carolina tied the game on a goal by Kristen Hamilton. In the 62nd minute, Gabby Seiler scored to make it 2-1 Houston. That would be the final score.

On July 24, the Dash were home against the Portland Thorns and fell 1-0. 35 seconds into the game, Portland’s Sophia Smith scored what would be the game winner.

The Dash are home August 1 against NYNJ Gotham FC. Kickoff is set for 6pm on Paramount +

Dash defeat OL Reign, fall to Chicago Red Stars

Coming off a victory against Orlando Pride on June 26, the Houston Dash looked to make it two wins in a row over the July 4 weekend.

After an hour delay due to severe weather, the Dash kicked off around 8 pm against OL Reign.

After a scoreless first half, Houston took the lead in the 50th minute when Shea Groom found former Reign player Jasmyne Spencer for the goal.

Houston would score again in the 57th minute when Katie Naughton leaped over OL Reign defenders and put a header in the goal to secure the victory. 

Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell did not disappoint in her last game before she joins the U.S. Women’s National Team for the Olympic Games in Tokyo. 

On July 11, Houston hoped to win three in a row when they travelled to Chicago, IL to face the Red Stars. However, things would not go in Houston’s favor as they fell 2-1. 

Jasmyne Spencer would find Veronica Latsko in the 62nd minute for the team’s only goal. Things then went quickly downhill. 

Shea Groom scored the first goal for the Red Stars in the 73rd minute after attempting to clear the ball in the penalty area. Another own goal by former Red Star player Katie Naughton sealed the victory for Chicago in the 76th minute. As with the first own goal, Naughton attempted to clear the ball out of the penalty area, but was unable to do so. 

The Dash travel to face two-time NWSL champion North Carolina Courage on Saturday at 6:00 pm. Fans can follow the action on Paramount + or Twitch. 

The next home game is July 24 at 7:30 against the Portland Thorns. 

Dash fall to Racing Louisville FC, defeat Orlando Pride

On June 20, the Houston Dash faced expansion team Racing Louisville FC and fell 1-0 after not playing for two weeks due to an international break.

Louisville would score the only goal in the 71st minute when Ebony Salmon found her way through two defenders and scored at the top of the goal box.

On June 26, which also was LGBT Pride Night, the Houston Dash came out with their second win of the season. Houston defeated Orlando 2-1. Houston has yet to lose to Orlando after 8 meetings so far.

Houston opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Tigres loaner Maria Sanchez punched the ball past Orlando keeper Ashlyn Harris. Houston would test Harris again in the 20th minute, but the goal was denied. Veronica Latsko would score the second goal in the 27th minute on a header from Sophie Schmidt.

The Dash tested Orlando early and often throughout the match.

Orlando’s only goal came in the 49th minute when Gunny Jonsdittor headed a ball off a pass from Marta.

The Dash return to BBVA Stadium July 2 when the OL Reign come to town.

Houston hopes to make it two wins in a row as well.