News from the South - Texas News Feed
‘Groundbreaking,’ First-in-human total artificial heart implanted inside patient in Houston
SUMMARY: The Texas Medical Center’s Texas Heart Institute has successfully implanted a groundbreaking artificial heart, marking a significant medical advancement 22 years in the making. Unlike traditional mechanical hearts that serve as temporary solutions, this novel device is designed to be permanent, potentially saving thousands of lives each year without the need for donor hearts. Announced during a press conference, the first implantation occurred on July 9 in a critically ill man awaiting a transplant. The innovative heart features a unique spinning disc that minimizes mechanical wear, allowing it to last long-term. If trials succeed, widespread availability could come in around five years.

THI and BiVACOR announced the successful first-in-human implantation of the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH) as part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Early Feasibility Study (EFS) on July 9, 2024.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Popular online food critic surprises Houston-area dessert shop with $50,000 donation
SUMMARY: Popular online food critic Keith Lee surprised Perland-area dessert shop owner Janelle Prader with a $50,000 donation, helping her expand her business. A year ago, the shop faced uncertainty, but Lee’s visit sparked massive support. Now, Prader is opening a larger location offering more than banana pudding and adding a food truck. The new space will create a comfortable environment for customers to relax and work. Grateful for the community’s love, Prader hopes to launch the food truck by April and the renovated shop by her birthday in May. Lee’s contribution brought her expansion dreams to fruition.

Keith Lee helped a Houston-area dessert shop tremendously when he did a review of their tasty treats last year.
This time, though, he brought a different kind of surprise in the form of $50,000.
Inside the small Pearland storefront, big things are happening for The Puddery owner Janel Prator. With Lee’s financial contribution, her expansion plans are coming to fruition sooner than expected.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Puro Picks: Social media influencer Stephanie Guerra discusses weekend events in San Antonio
SUMMARY: Social media influencer Stephanie Guerra highlights exciting weekend events in San Antonio. Tonight, attend “I Am Every Woman,” an 8 PM celebration of Women’s History Month at Rosdio’s rooftop, featuring performances by local artists for $30. Tomorrow, the Harlandale ISD Cultural Arts Fair Parade runs from 9 to 11 AM, followed by a fair from 11 AM to 2 PM at Memorial Stadium. Other events include “Cafe Conron” coffee parties at Luna Rosa with DJ music and the Flourish and Fem art fair at Hotel Contessa showcasing local women artists. Plus, Norteno Fest at Cado Ranch features a carneasada cook-off. Enjoy the vibrant local scene!

Social media influencer Stephanie Guerra joins Friday’s KSAT Q&A to discuss weekend happenings in and around San Antonio.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
VA Plans 80,000 Job Cuts for Efficiency
SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to cut approximately 80,000 jobs, about 17% of its workforce, to improve efficiency. Secretary Doug Collins stated the goal is not reducing money or people but eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. VA employees and union representatives, including the American Federation of Government Employees, fear these cuts will compromise veterans’ care, especially in areas like call centers, eligibility, benefits, and mental health support. Crisis responders, like Erica Alexander, worry layoffs will leave veterans without essential services, while union vice president Jonathan Geller emphasizes the loss of care for those who served the country.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is set to lay off 80,000 employees. Leigh Waldman speaks with VA workers concerned about how this will affect veterans’ care.
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