Here's why people move to — and stay in — Houston, according to new Rice University Kinder Institute survey
Houston's population is growing fast. The latest Houston-area survey from Rice University's Kinder Institute reveals key trends about what's drawing people to the area, what's keeping them here and what they think Houston's biggest challenges are.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Fox News
6 hours ago
- Fox News
Child predators, gang members, human traffickers deported in major Texas city ICE roundup
Child predators, gang members and human traffickers were among the 142 criminal illegals deported to Mexico by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officials in the Houston area in just the last two weeks. According to an ICE statement on Tuesday, the criminal immigrants were deported between May 19 and May 30. Those deported had been convicted of a total of 473 criminal offenses and had illegally entered the country a combined 480 times. The statement said that among those deported, 11 of the illegals were convicted child predators, eight were "documented gang members" and one had illegally entered the country 21 times. Additionally, among the deported illegals were 43 aggravated assault and domestic violence-related convictions, 48 drug trafficking or drug possession convictions, 22 human trafficking or human smuggling convictions and one conviction for making terroristic threats. One of the illegals, Alejandro Aguilar Vazquez, a 45-year-old Mexican national, had been convicted three times of cruelty towards a child, according to ICE. Another, Luis Angel Garcia-Contreras, a 40-year-old criminal immigrant from Mexico and documented member of the Surenos 13 gang, has illegally entered the U.S. 21 times and has been convicted of illegal entry four times. Benito Charqueno Zavala, a 60-year-old Mexican national, was convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a child. In the statement, Bret Bradford, ICE ERO Houston Field Office director, said, "Unfortunately, this is not an anomaly." "For the past few years, there was virtually no deterrent to illegally entering the country," he said. "As a result, millions of illegal aliens poured into the country including violent criminal aliens, child predators, transnational gang members and foreign fugitives." As a state that comprises over 60% of the U.S.-Mexico border, Texas was among the states most heavily impacted by the immigration crisis in the last several years. Bradford said that "many of these dangerous criminal aliens went on to prey on law-abiding residents in local communities right here in Southeast Texas." "This is just a small snapshot of those efforts as it only focuses on deportations to one country over the course of a two-week period, but it gives you an idea of how big this problem really is," he explained. Ammon Blair, a senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, explained the scale of the still-ongoing crisis in Texas and across the nation. He told Fox News Digital that the deportation of the 142 criminal illegal immigrants in Houston "reveals a far deeper crisis unfolding across our nation—one that poses a direct threat to public safety, national security, and the rule of law." He said the 142 represents "only a sliver of the 650,000 criminal aliens currently on ICE's Non-Detained Docket, free to move through American communities with impunity." "Texas has become the front line in this crisis, not just geographically, but constitutionally," he added, explaining that "nearly 100 counties in Texas have issued disaster declarations or formally declared an invasion, not for political theater, but because cartel operations, weaponized mass migration, and the release of violent offenders have made every community in Texas vulnerable." "This is not a policy disagreement. It is a public safety emergency," he added. Andrew Mahaleris, a spokesperson for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, told Fox News Digital that President Donald Trump is "stepping up where Joe Biden failed." While many other states are resisting ICE operations, Mahaleris said that Texas "will continue to assist the Trump Administration in arresting, detaining, and deporting illegal immigrants." "President Trump's deportation efforts are making Texas safer," he said. "Governor Abbott is grateful to finally have an administration upholding the rule of law in our country."
Associated Press
7 hours ago
- Associated Press
Ravi Kathuria – Noted Spiritual Author & Coach – Reveals Why Religion and Spirituality are Completely Distinct. People Can Pursue Spirituality With or Without Religion
Spirituality can only be non-religious. Spirituality does not care which religion one follows or if one is an atheist. Spirituality is all inclusive. It is accessible to everyone regardless of caste, creed, religious beliefs, age, status, gender, or gender orientation. No judgments. No preconditions. Houston, Texas - June 4, 2025 - In a world where the lines between religion and spirituality often blur, Ravi Kathuria emerges as a guiding light. A renowned spiritual author and coach, he invites us all to explore the deeper essence of existence beyond traditional beliefs. With his insights, one can unravel the intricate tapestry that differentiates religion from spirituality—a distinction vital for personal growth in today's fast-paced society. Imagine having an inner dialogue about life's most significant questions without being confined by dogmas or doctrines. This is precisely what Ravi advocates: a journey toward the understanding that spirituality transcends religious boundaries. Whether one identifies with a faith or stands firmly as an atheist, there's profound wisdom waiting for everyone on this path of enlightenment and self-realization. Religion and spirituality often intertwine, yet they serve different purposes. Religion is a structured system with doctrines, rituals, and community practices. It provides guidelines for followers to adhere to a specific belief system. Spirituality, on the other hand, is inherently personal and fluid. It focuses on individual experiences of transcendence and inner peace. This journey does not require adherence to any particular dogma or institution. While religion can offer comfort in times of distress, it may also create divisions among people based on beliefs or interpretations. Spirituality transcends these boundaries; it is an inclusive path open to all individuals regardless of their backgrounds. Spirituality emphasizes connection and union — both within ourselves and with the Universe all around. In this way, one's spiritual journey becomes less about conformity and more about authentic self-discovery. In his book, 'Happy Soul. Hungry Mind.' Ravi uses a capital 'U' in Universe as he declares, 'God is the Universe. The Universe itself is God!' Union with the Infinite Universe is union with the Infinite God. The role of religion in society: Religion has played a pivotal role in shaping societies throughout history. It often serves as a moral compass, guiding individuals on what is considered right and wrong. Many find comfort and hope through the rituals and beliefs that religion offers. Communities bond over shared faith practices, creating social networks that promote support during challenging times. These congregations can foster a sense of belonging, giving people a space to connect with others who share similar values. However, religion can also lead to division. While it unites some, it has historically discriminated against different faiths or lifestyles. This duality highlights its complex influence on societal norms. Through its teachings, religion encourages individuals to seek purpose beyond material existence. Yet sometimes, dogmas may overshadow the essence of spiritual exploration. The challenge lies in navigating these waters while remaining open-minded about varying beliefs and experiences around spirituality. The concept of spirituality as a personal journey: Spirituality is a deeply personal journey from one's mind to one's soul. It begins with quieting the 'hungry mind' and ends with the experience of one's life-force. That experience is the highest experience of life — where one is free from finite limitations and connects with the Infinite Self! Many find that spirituality unfolds in quiet moments — during meditation, nature walks, or simply sitting in silence. These experiences, where the mind quiets downs, allow one to connect with an inner peace that exists unaffected and undiminished by modern-day external chaos. Spirituality is in everyone's DNA from birth. It exists naturally. That is precisely why spirituality is not subject to beliefs. What the mind believes has no impact on a human being's ability to connect with their inner-peace. Just like everyone human has the ability to swim, so does every human have the ability to access the spirituality-within regardless of their circumstances. How to pursue spirituality with or without religion: One doesn't need to adhere to any specific religion to tap into one's spiritual essence. Start by cultivating quietude and self-awareness. Reflect on your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Learn to go with the flow. Learn to live in moderation where nothing in the world can hold you hostage. Meditation is the most powerful gateway to access the infinite peace within. It quiets and sublimates the mind, allowing us to go beyond the mind. Even a few minutes daily can open doors within oneself that one never knew existed. Explore nature and allow its beauty to inspire gratitude and mindfulness. Nature has an innate ability to ground oneself, helping to feel connected beyond human experiences. Engage in practices like journaling or art. These mediums offer avenues for self-expression and deeper understanding of one's spiritual path. Learn to be in the 'zone' where the activity calms the mind. Remember, there are no strict rules here; spirituality is flexible and inclusive. Embrace what resonates personally, regardless of religious affiliation or lack thereof. Ravi Kathuria's perspective on balancing both religion and spirituality: Ravi Kathuria presents a unique perspective on the intricate dance between religion and spirituality. He believes that both can coexist harmoniously, serving distinct yet complementary roles. For him, religion often provides structure — a set of guidelines that helps individuals navigate life's complexities. Yet he emphasizes that true fulfillment lies beyond mere rituals and dogmas. Spirituality, according to Kathuria, is an inward journey that transcends external practices. It connects one deeply with one's essence, urging one to explore the ocean of peace within oneself. He encourages embracing the beauty of spiritual exploration while respecting individual religious beliefs. This balance allows for personal growth without judgment or restriction. Through meditation and self-reflection, he suggests one can cultivate this harmony — connecting mind and soul in a way that's enriching rather than divisive. It's about finding joy in both realms while fostering inclusivity at every step. As Ravi Kathuria emphasizes through his teachings as a spiritual author and coach: all must learn how to connect with one's inherent spiritual abilities if one wants transformation in one's lives. Making time for this connection amidst the chaos of daily living enhances one's overall well-being. Take a moment today — quiet your mind — and allow yourself an opportunity for realignment with your life's ultimate purpose; let go of distractions that pull you away from the serene existence within yourself. For further information, visit: Media Contact Company Name: Ravi Kathuria Contact Person: Media Relations Email: Send Email Phone: 281.506.2933 City: Houston State: Texas Country: United States Website: Source: PRD Marketing Group
Associated Press
11 hours ago
- Associated Press
Pirates and Astros meet, winner secures 3-game series
Houston Astros (33-28, first in the AL West) vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (23-39, fifth in the NL Central) Pittsburgh; Thursday, 6:40 p.m. EDT PITCHING PROBABLES: Astros: Framber Valdez (5-4, 3.12 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 73 strikeouts); Pirates: Mitch Keller (1-7, 3.73 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 56 strikeouts) BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Astros -161, Pirates +136; over/under is 7 1/2 runs BOTTOM LINE: The Pittsburgh Pirates and Houston Astros play on Thursday with the three-game series tied 1-1. Pittsburgh is 23-39 overall and 14-17 at home. The Pirates are 9-3 in games when they scored at least five runs. Houston has an 11-16 record in road games and a 33-28 record overall. The Astros have the seventh-ranked team on-base percentage in the AL at .317. Thursday's game is the third time these teams match up this season. TOP PERFORMERS: Oneil Cruz leads the Pirates with 12 home runs while slugging .474. Bryan Reynolds is 14 for 39 with two doubles, a triple, a home run and nine RBIs over the last 10 games. Jeremy Pena has 10 doubles, a triple and nine home runs for the Astros. Jose Altuve is 12 for 37 with three home runs and four RBIs over the past 10 games. LAST 10 GAMES: Pirates: 5-5, .257 batting average, 3.00 ERA, outscored opponents by nine runs Astros: 7-3, .257 batting average, 4.15 ERA, outscored by six runs INJURIES: Pirates: Joey Bart: 7-Day IL (concussion), Colin Holderman: 15-Day IL (thumb), Enmanuel Valdez: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Justin Lawrence: 60-Day IL (elbow), Tim Mayza: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Jared Jones: 60-Day IL (elbow), Johan Oviedo: 60-Day IL (elbow), Dauri Moreta: 60-Day IL (elbow) Astros: Chas McCormick: 10-Day IL (oblique), Ronel Blanco: 60-Day IL (elbow), Zach Dezenzo: 10-Day IL (hand), Hayden Wesneski: 60-Day IL (elbow), Yordan Alvarez: 10-Day IL (hand), Spencer Arrighetti: 15-Day IL (thumb), Luis Garcia: 60-Day IL (elbow), Cristian Javier: 60-Day IL (elbow), J.P. France: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Taylor Trammell: 10-Day IL (calf), Pedro Leon: 10-Day IL (knee) ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
