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Houston Rodeo 2024 Unveils Exciting New Offerings: Food, Discounts, Rides, and Shopping Galore

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Houston Rodeo 2024 Unveils Exciting New Offerings: Food, Discounts, Rides, and Shopping Galore

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at this year’s Houston Rodeo as organizers roll out a slew of exciting new attractions, promising something for everyone. From tantalizing new food options to exhilarating carnival rides and unique shopping opportunities, the 2024 edition of RodeoHouston is shaping up to be an event like no other.

New Food Delights Await

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure with an array of mouthwatering dishes debuting at the rodeo:

  • Asian Streetness’ Wonton Nachos
  • Big Fat Bacon’s Bacon Bourbon Caramel Cheesesteak on a Stick
  • Casa De Yummy’s Horchata con Cafe
  • Corndog With No Name’s Brunch Pops
  • FRIED WHAT !?’s Lemon Cake Bar
  • MiaBellas Wood Fired Pizza’s BBQ Bacon Bourbon Wood-Fired Pizza

Selected food vendors will be offering special discounts on Wednesdays, making it the perfect time to sample a variety of flavors without breaking the bank:

  • Greek Grill: Baklava Greek pastry for $6
  • Sills Funnel Cakes and Food: Foot-long corndog and drink for $13
  • Harlon’s BBQ: Chopped beef sandwich, chips, and drink for $12

Carnival Fun and Thrilling Rides

Thrill-seekers will be delighted by the addition of new carnival midway foods:

  • Cheeto Cheese Chicken on a Stick
  • Nashville Hot Chicken Tots
  • Barbalicious Float: A handcrafted bubblegum soda topped with cotton candy and whipped cream

New rides to enjoy include the Joker 360, a giant pendulum offering an exhilarating g-force experience set to tunes loved by all generations.

Retail Therapy and Unique Finds

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the Houston Rodeo has you covered with a lineup of new shopping vendors:

  • Angry Minnow Vintage
  • Dakota West Leathers
  • Snakebite Creative Design

With so much to see, do, and taste, the Houston Rodeo 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages. So mark your calendars and get ready to saddle up for a wild ride at the greatest show in Texas!

Texas Implements Tough New Law: 10-Year Minimum Sentence for Human Smuggling

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Texas Implements Tough New Law: 10-Year Minimum Sentence for Human Smuggling

Starting February 6th, individuals convicted of smuggling immigrants into Texas will face a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 10 years, following the enactment of Senate Bill 4 (SB 4). This stringent measure represents a significant shift in state policy and is part of Republican Governor Greg Abbott’s broader agenda to address illegal immigration.

SB 4, approved by Texas lawmakers during their third special legislative session in October, aims to combat human smuggling by increasing penalties for offenders. Under this new law, the minimum sentence for smuggling humans has been raised from two years to a mandatory 10 years. Additionally, a five-year minimum sentence has been established for harboring undocumented immigrants in “stash houses.”

Governor Abbott highlighted the urgency of addressing human smuggling, citing a drastic increase in arrests related to this crime in recent years. He pointed out that while there were 370 arrests for smuggling illegal immigrants in Texas in 2017, this number surged to 7,700 arrests by 2023.

Supporters of SB 4 argue that it will effectively target criminal organizations, including drug cartels, involved in human trafficking. However, critics, including immigrant rights advocates, have raised concerns about potential racial profiling and the law’s effectiveness in deterring criminals.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas has estimated that SB 4 could cost taxpayers over $1 billion annually. Nick Hudson, a policy and advocacy strategist for the ACLU of Texas, criticized the law, stating that harsh sentences like those in SB 4 exacerbate racial disparities and are ineffective in deterring crime.

In response to questions raised during legislative debates, lawmakers clarified that SB 4 does not change the existing definition of smuggling under state law. They emphasized that individuals must knowingly engage in activities such as encouraging or inducing undocumented individuals to enter or remain in the country illegally to be charged with smuggling.

Beyond SB 4, Governor Abbott has signed two other immigration-related bills into law. Senate Bill 3 allocates $1.54 billion to fund the construction of a border wall along the Texas-Mexico border, while another bill, also named SB 4 from the fourth special session, grants Texas the authority to arrest and deport migrants who enter the state illegally.

However, these measures have faced legal challenges, with the U.S. Department of Justice, El Paso County, and immigrant rights groups suing Texas to block implementation. Critics argue that these laws encroach upon federal immigration authority and could exacerbate tensions along the border. Governor Abbott maintains that Texas must enact its own immigration laws to address what he calls a “border crisis.”

Both SB 3 and the fourth special session’s SB 4 are scheduled to become law on March 5th.

Mexico Overtakes China as Top U.S. Import Source, Signals Geopolitical Shift

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Mexico Overtakes China as Top U.S. Import Source, Signals Geopolitical Shift

In a significant shift reflecting geopolitical tensions and trade strategies, Mexico has emerged as the United States’ top source of imports, surpassing China for the first time in over 20 years. The latest data from the U.S. Commerce Department, released on Wednesday, indicates that the value of goods imported from Mexico to the U.S. saw a nearly 5% increase from 2022 to 2023, totaling over $475 billion. Conversely, Chinese imports experienced a notable decline, dropping by 20% to $427 billion during the same period.

This reversal marks the first instance since 2002 that Mexican imports have outweighed those from China. The shift underscores evolving economic dynamics amid escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing. The strained relations stem from ongoing trade disputes and escalating military posturing in the Far East initiated by Beijing.

As the United States seeks to diversify its import sources and navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the prominence of Mexico as a trade partner has grown, signaling a strategic reevaluation of trade relationships.

Supreme Court Set to Decide on Trump’s Eligibility for 2024 Presidential Race

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Supreme Court Set to Decide on Trump’s Eligibility for 2024 Presidential Race

In a landmark case that could significantly impact the 2024 presidential race, the Supreme Court is poised to hear arguments regarding former President Donald Trump’s eligibility for a second term. The case revolves around Trump’s conduct during the January 6, 2021, Capitol assault, with potential ramifications extending across all 50 states.

The dispute, formally known as Trump v. Anderson, originates from a lawsuit filed by six Colorado voters challenging Trump’s candidacy. At the heart of the matter lies Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, a provision seldom invoked since its adoption in 1868. This clause prohibits individuals engaged in insurrection against the Constitution from holding public office.

The Colorado Supreme Court’s December ruling, which declared Trump ineligible for the presidency based on his actions surrounding the Capitol riot, prompted the current high-stakes legal showdown. Trump, along with the group of voters, appealed the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court, which agreed to review the case.

Trump’s legal team argues several key points, including whether Section 3 applies to former presidents, whether Trump’s actions constitute insurrection, and the enforceability of the provision without congressional legislation. They contend that the clause does not specifically mention the presidency and should not disqualify him from the ballot.

Conversely, proponents of Trump’s disqualification emphasize the severity of his alleged insurrectionary behavior and stress the importance of upholding constitutional integrity. They argue that allowing Trump to run again would undermine the rule of law and democratic principles.

As the Supreme Court prepares to deliberate, the outcome remains uncertain. A decision favoring Trump could solidify his position on primary and general election ballots, while a ruling against him could reshape the electoral landscape, potentially excluding him from the race altogether.

The case underscores the judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding the democratic process and ensuring adherence to constitutional norms. With the nation’s political future hanging in the balance, the Supreme Court’s verdict promises to leave an indelible mark on American history.

TEA Commissioner Praises Reform Efforts in Houston ISD Schools

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TEA Commissioner Praises Reform Efforts in Houston ISD Schools

Texas Education Agency (TEA) Commissioner Mike Morath commended the reform initiatives spearheaded by state-appointed superintendent Mike Miles during his visit to three Houston Independent School District (HISD) campuses on Tuesday. This visit marked Morath’s first inspection of the district’s schools since the state takeover.

Accompanied by school officials, Morath toured Kashmere High, Highland Heights Elementary, and Shadydale Elementary, all of which are part of the New Education System (NES) program implemented by Miles this academic year. Noting a significant improvement in academic standards compared to his previous visits, Morath praised the transformative impact of the NES model on HISD schools.

Under the NES framework, HISD introduced a standardized curriculum, innovative classes such as “Art of Thinking” and “Dyad,” and established Team Centers at 85 campuses, primarily located in low-income, Black, and Latino communities. The program also entails extended school hours, increased teacher compensation, and additional support personnel such as “teacher apprentices” and “learning coaches” to aid educators.

Speaking at a press conference following his visits, Morath lauded the quality of instruction and structural changes within HISD, emphasizing their potential to address the diverse needs of all students. While acknowledging that the full impact of these changes may take time to materialize, Morath expressed optimism about the program’s ability to prevent student academic disparities and provide comprehensive support in key subjects.

Morath highlighted the NES model’s focus on personalized instruction and targeted intervention, particularly for students with special education needs. Accompanied by TEA officials, he observed how HISD accommodates special education students, an area where the district has faced compliance challenges with state and federal laws.

Despite some concerns raised by HISD teachers about accommodating special education students within the NES framework, Morath emphasized the benefits of additional educators in classrooms, facilitating customized support as part of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

However, recent criticisms regarding the reading curriculum at NES schools, which predominantly feature short passages instead of full novels, have surfaced. Miles defended the curriculum’s effectiveness in teaching reading skills, stating that students have the option to read full books independently outside of class time.

Morath stressed the importance of exposing students to a diverse range of reading materials, including complex texts, to foster critical thinking skills. He emphasized the need for students to engage with challenging literary works, such as those by Shakespeare or John Keats, while receiving individualized support tailored to their academic needs.

In conclusion, Morath’s visit to HISD schools underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance educational outcomes and address systemic challenges within the district, signaling a collaborative approach between state and local education authorities to ensure all students receive quality education.

House Republicans Advance Impeachment Proceedings Against Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas Over Immigration Policies

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House Republicans Advance Impeachment Proceedings Against Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas Over Immigration Policies

In a stark display of party polarization, House Republicans rallied behind a motion to advance impeachment proceedings against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The move, fueled by accusations of a “willful and systematic” neglect of immigration laws, underscores the escalating tensions surrounding border security, which has emerged as a central issue in the 2024 election landscape.

Following a marathon session on Tuesday, the Homeland Security Committee recommended two articles of impeachment against Mayorkas, marking a rare and historic charge against a Cabinet official not seen in nearly 150 years. Republicans, aligning with the hard-line deportation stance championed by former President Donald Trump, assert that Mayorkas’s alleged failures demand swift action.

The committee’s decision, split along party lines, saw Republicans voting in favor of impeachment while Democrats unanimously opposed the move, resulting in an 18-15 vote in favor of advancing the impeachment proceedings.

Chairman Mark Green, representing Tennessee, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We cannot allow this man to remain in office any longer.” The sharp divide within the committee reflects the deep-seated partisan discord surrounding immigration policy and underscores the significant political ramifications at play as the impeachment process unfolds.

Fort Bend County Introduces New Downtown Commuter Service from Sugar Land to Houston

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Fort Bend County Introduces New Downtown Commuter Service from Sugar Land to Houston

Fort Bend County residents will soon have a convenient and affordable option for commuting into Downtown Houston as Fort Bend Transit prepares to launch its latest route on March 4th. The eagerly awaited Downtown Commuter Service, priced at $4 for a one-way trip, aims to address longstanding requests from both riders and employers in the area, according to Perri D’Armond, director for public transportation in Fort Bend County.

The implementation of this service, made possible through the acquisition of nine new buses, is supported by a $2 million grant from the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program. Partnering with the Downtown Houston Management District, Fort Bend Transit secured the grant, fulfilling the local funding match requirement.

The initiative is not only aimed at providing commuters with a reliable transportation option but also at reducing traffic congestion and pollution in the region. D’Armond emphasized the environmental benefits of fewer vehicles on the road, highlighting the positive impact on emissions as the city and region continue to grow.

Starting in March, commuters can board the bus at the AMC First Colony 24 park and ride lot, with additional stops planned at strategic locations including the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds and the University of Houston at Sugar Land. Tickets, priced at $4, can be purchased conveniently through mobile apps like Token Transit or METRO’s RideMETRO app.

The route will operate with 40-passenger buses, making a total of 37 daily runs between Sugar Land and Downtown Houston, including morning, midday, and evening trips. Stops in Downtown Houston will be strategically located around high employment areas to serve the commuting needs of riders effectively.

In tandem with the introduction of the new Downtown Commuter Service, adjustments will be made to existing routes. The Galleria commuter route will be discontinued after February 2nd, with an additional stop being added to the Greenway route on February 5th. This modification aims to provide seamless transfers for riders traveling to the Galleria or uptown area.

With the launch of this new service and the ongoing enhancements to public transportation options, Fort Bend County residents can anticipate improved accessibility and connectivity for their daily commutes into Houston’s bustling downtown district.

GOP Senators Reject $118 Billion Border Security Package, Sparking Political Showdown

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GOP Senators Reject $118 Billion Border Security Package, Sparking Political Showdown

In a significant turn of events, Senate Republicans have blocked a key piece of legislation focused on border security, despite their previous insistence on such measures as a condition for supporting additional aid to Ukraine. This decision, made on Wednesday, comes amidst ongoing debates over how best to address the complex issues of immigration policy and foreign aid.

The blocked legislation, valued at $118 billion, aimed to address both foreign aid and immigration policy reform. Among its proposed measures were stricter asylum laws and the creation of a new system to respond to illegal border crossings. However, former President Donald Trump had vehemently opposed the bill well before its unveiling, placing considerable pressure on Republican lawmakers to reject it. Indeed, around half of Republicans had expressed their opposition within a mere 24 hours of the bill’s release.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell had previously stated that there was no viable path forward for this legislation, setting the stage for a showdown within the Senate. However, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer swiftly announced his intention to advance a separate aid bill, effectively forcing Republicans to take a clear stance on the issue of Ukraine funding, which has been a contentious topic within their party.

Recent months have seen Republicans in both the House and Senate express reluctance to provide further assistance to Ukraine without certain conditions being met. The proposed alternative emergency aid bill, currently under consideration, would allocate significant funds for various purposes, including $60 billion for Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, $14 billion for Israel’s endeavors against Hamas in Gaza, and substantial sums for humanitarian assistance and trade partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

In response to the developments, the White House has voiced its support for the trimmed-down aid bill, while also taking aim at Republicans whose stance on the border bill seemed to be influenced by Trump. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates emphasized President Biden’s unwavering commitment to border security and the necessity for comprehensive reforms, regardless of political considerations.

Mardi Gras 2024: Festivities Abound in Houston and Galveston

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Mardi Gras 2024: Festivities Abound in Houston and Galveston

As the countdown to Fat Tuesday, February 13, 2024, continues, the vibrant celebrations of Mardi Gras are in full swing in Houston and along the picturesque beaches of Galveston. Embracing the spirit of this annual extravaganza, locals and visitors alike are gearing up to partake in a plethora of traditional, raucous, and family-friendly events.

Galveston, known as the headquarters of Mardi Gras festivities, proudly marks its 113th celebration with a lineup of events spanning two weekends and culminating on Fat Tuesday itself. Balcony parties, live music performances, and a myriad of official activities promise an unforgettable experience for revelers of all ages.

While Galveston serves as the epicenter of Mardi Gras, the festivities extend across Greater Houston and beyond. From parades to parties and everything in between, the region is buzzing with excitement as participants prepare to “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good times roll).

Among the highlights of the upcoming celebrations are:

  • The renowned Mardi Gras! Galveston, now in its 113th year, boasting lively parades, balcony parties, and family-friendly events. Ticket prices vary, with options available for single-day, weekend, and multi-day passes.
  • The Jolly Jester Jaunt 5K in Downtown Galveston, offering a unique twist to the traditional run with participants treated to special goodies and access to festival activities.
  • Various themed brunches and parties across Houston and Galveston, including events at B&B Butchers, Hotel Lucine, and House of Blues, promising delicious food, live entertainment, and festive atmospheres.
  • Family-friendly gatherings such as the Mardi Gras Celebration at Kemah Boardwalk and Mardi Gras on Main in La Porte, featuring activities for all ages, including parades, live music, and carnival rides.
  • Special culinary offerings, including King Cake kits and traditional treats, available at local establishments like Common Bond Bakery, ensuring that the flavors of Mardi Gras are savored throughout the season.

As the excitement builds towards Fat Tuesday, a variety of events are planned to culminate the festivities:

  • The Woodlands Children’s Museum hosts a Mardi Gras Celebration & Parade, inviting families to partake in crafts, parades, and King Cake.
  • The Rustic Downtown in Houston hosts a Mardi Craw Party, featuring a crawfish boil, live music, and festive activities.
  • Galveston Arts Center presents a Fat Tuesday Celebration, offering prime views of the sendoff parade along with complimentary refreshments.
  • Brennan’s of Houston invites guests to a special Fat Tuesday Party, complete with a themed dinner and lively entertainment.
  • Daiquiri Time Out in Galveston hosts a lively Fat Tuesday Party, featuring live music and parade views.

As Mardi Gras fever sweeps through the region, Houston and Galveston stand ready to embrace the rich traditions and joyful celebrations that define this annual event. Whether revelers are seeking lively parades, delectable cuisine, or family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as they join in the festivities and let the good times roll.

Family of Four Reported Missing After Moving from New Orleans to Houston

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Family of Four Reported Missing After Moving from New Orleans to Houston

The New Orleans Police Department is urgently seeking information on the whereabouts of a family of four who disappeared after embarking on a journey from New Orleans to Houston two months ago.

According to Louisiana police, 27-year-old mother Steys Yanira David-Funez, her 31-year-old husband Ramon Ruiz Crisanto, and their two daughters, 4-year-old Jazzlyn Esther Ruiz David and 1-year-old Dara Ismeray Ruiz David, have not been heard from since they left New Orleans.

The family’s disappearance was reported by David-Funez’s father, who drove them to the Greyhound bus station at 1001 Loyola Ave. in New Orleans on November 30, 2023. They informed him they were relocating to Houston, and he received a text message later that day confirming their arrival at their destination.

However, concerns arose when David-Funez’s father attempted to contact his daughter the following week but received no response. Further inquiries with relatives in Texas revealed that the family never reached their intended destination.

Despite multiple attempts to reach out to the family, they remain unreachable, leaving authorities and loved ones increasingly worried. As of Monday, it has been 67 days since the family departed New Orleans.

The missing family members are of Hispanic descent, and police have issued photos of them to aid in their search.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Steys Yanira David-Funez, Ramon Ruiz Crisanto, and their two daughters is urged to contact the New Orleans Police Department’s Sixth District detectives at 504-658-6060.

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