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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.

Texas Trees Foundation Urges Oak Tree Owners to Avoid Pruning Amidst Oak Wilt Concerns

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Texas Trees Foundation Urges Oak Tree Owners to Avoid Pruning Amidst Oak Wilt Concerns

As spring approaches, the Texas Trees Foundation is cautioning homeowners and landscapers against pruning oak trees due to the threat of oak wilt—a fast-spreading and lethal fungus. With oak wilt posing a significant risk to trees across the U.S., the foundation advises refraining from pruning oaks between February 1 and June 30 to prevent the spread of the disease.

Oak wilt, caused by the Bretziella fagacearum fungus, disrupts the water-conducting system in oaks and is primarily transmitted through beetle-infested bark wounds. While all oak species are susceptible, certain types like live oak, Texas live oak, and red oak are particularly vulnerable due to interconnected root systems.

Recognizing symptoms such as yellowing veins, vein banding, and tip burn on oak leaves is crucial for early detection. Prompt intervention, including proper pruning techniques and fungicide injections, can help manage oak wilt, although prevention remains the best strategy.

The Texas Trees Foundation emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about oak wilt and adopting integrated management practices to mitigate its impact. Homeowners are encouraged to consult certified arborists for guidance and refrain from pruning oaks during critical periods to safeguard their trees and prevent further spread of this devastating fungus.

While the Texas Trees Foundation focuses its efforts in Dallas, the Houston Area Urban Forestry Council echoes similar concerns, emphasizing the need for collective action to preserve oak trees and maintain the urban forest canopy in the greater Houston area.

Mother of Michigan School Shooter Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter

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Mother of Michigan School Shooter Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter

In a groundbreaking trial, a Michigan jury found Jennifer Crumbley guilty of involuntary manslaughter on Tuesday for her role in the 2021 Oxford High School shooting that claimed the lives of four students. Prosecutors argued that Crumbley failed to secure the gun used by her 15-year-old son, Ethan Crumbley, and neglected his mental health needs.

The verdict, returned after approximately 11 hours of deliberation, held Crumbley accountable for each student’s death. The courtroom atmosphere was tense as the verdict was read, with Crumbley visibly shaken by the outcome.

As the jurors were polled, Crumbley, 45, looked down and shook her head slightly. Oakland County Judge Cheryl Matthews acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, thanking the jurors for their service.

Prosecutor Karen McDonald received heartfelt gratitude from the families of the victims as she left the courtroom. However, a gag order imposed by the judge prevented both McDonald and defense attorney Shannon Smith from commenting on the case to the press.

The trial revealed critical lapses in parental responsibility leading up to the tragedy. Despite school concerns over Ethan’s violent drawing and distressing statements, his parents failed to remove him from the premises. Hours later, he opened fire in the school, causing devastating casualties.

Assistant prosecutor Marc Keast underscored Jennifer Crumbley’s pivotal role in enabling the shooting, emphasizing her direct involvement in firearm activities with her son and her awareness of his proficiency with the weapon.

Ethan Crumbley, now serving a life sentence after pleading guilty, penned disturbing entries in his journal, lamenting his parents’ dismissal of his mental health struggles. Jennifer Crumbley asserted her trust in her son and denied observing any signs of distress.

The jury’s verdict marks a significant moment in legal history, as Jennifer and her husband James Crumbley become the first parents in the U.S. charged in connection with a mass school shooting perpetrated by their child. James Crumbley’s trial is scheduled for March.

Jennifer Crumbley faces sentencing on April 9, with her roughly 2 1/2 years in county jail to be credited. However, the Michigan parole board will ultimately determine her prison term, with involuntary manslaughter carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years.

Country Music Icon Toby Keith Dies at 62 After Battle with Cancer

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Country Music Icon Toby Keith Dies at 62 After Battle with Cancer

Toby Keith, the celebrated country music artist renowned for his patriotic anthems and lively tunes, has passed away at the age of 62 after a battle with stomach cancer. The singer-songwriter, known for hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” breathed his last surrounded by loved ones on Monday, as confirmed by a statement on his official website.

Throughout his illustrious career, Keith captivated audiences with his powerful vocals and candid lyrics, often drawing both praise and criticism for his unabashed patriotism and bold opinions. Songs like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “I Love This Bar” underscored his unwavering love for his country and his knack for capturing the essence of American life.

With over 20 Billboard No. 1 hits to his name, including “How Do You Like Me Now?!” and “As Good As I Once Was,” Keith’s impact on the country music scene was profound. His influence extended beyond the realm of music, as he tirelessly supported charitable causes and embarked on numerous USO tours to entertain troops serving overseas.

Despite his success, Keith remained grounded, drawing inspiration from his humble beginnings in the Oklahoma oil fields. His journey from a young roughneck to a country music icon exemplified resilience and determination, with music serving as a constant companion through life’s trials and triumphs.

Keith’s passing marks the end of an era in country music, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate with fans around the world. As tributes pour in from fellow artists and admirers, his indelible contributions to the genre and his unwavering commitment to his craft will be fondly remembered by all who cherished his music.

With his distinctive voice silenced, Toby Keith leaves behind a void in the music industry, but his spirit and enduring impact will live on through the timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics that defined his remarkable career.

Super Bowl 58 Showdown: Chiefs vs. 49ers Predictions Split Among Experts

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Super Bowl 58 Showdown: Chiefs vs. 49ers Predictions Split Among Experts

The anticipation is mounting as Super Bowl 58 approaches, promising an electrifying showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This clash marks a rematch of Super Bowl 54, with the Chiefs aiming to defend their title against a formidable 49ers squad boasting revamped strength.

Expert predictions from various sports media outlets offer insights into the potential outcome:

The Athletic: Seven out of eight analysts foresee a Chiefs victory, citing Mahomes’ prowess and the team’s robust defense as key factors.

CBS Sports: Predicts a close Chiefs win with their defensive advantage likely to tip the scales in their favor.

The Sporting News: All five analysts favor the Chiefs, emphasizing their defensive prowess and impactful young talent as crucial advantages.

ESPN: Eight of eleven analysts predict a Chiefs win, highlighting their solid defense compared to the 49ers’ recent defensive decline.

Jerry Rice: The NFL legend backs his former team, the 49ers, with a score prediction of 28-21 in their favor.

Despite expert opinions, the BetMGM NFL odds favor the 49ers as favorites to triumph over the Chiefs in Super Bowl 58. The odds reflect the anticipation and excitement surrounding the upcoming clash, offering fans an opportunity to engage with the game through mobile sports betting apps.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, football enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup, set to unfold in the heart of Las Vegas.

King Charles III Diagnosed with Cancer, to Limit Public Engagements

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King Charles III Diagnosed with Cancer, to Limit Public Engagements

Buckingham Palace disclosed on Monday that King Charles III, aged 75, has been diagnosed with cancer and will be refraining from public appearances following medical advice to minimize face-to-face interactions. This announcement marks a significant departure from past royal practices, where the health issues of monarchs were often shielded from public knowledge, according to experts in the field.

The palace revealed in an official statement that during a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate concern was identified, leading to subsequent tests confirming a form of cancer. However, the statement did not specify the stage of the cancer. Notably, Buckingham Palace clarified that the king does not have prostate cancer.

Last week, both King Charles and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, were discharged from a private London clinic after undergoing medical procedures. The king underwent a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, aged 42, underwent unspecified abdominal surgery on January 17.

The statement from the palace highlighted that the king has commenced a regimen of regular treatments and has been advised by medical professionals to postpone public engagements during this period. The disclosure of his diagnosis aims to prevent speculation and foster public understanding, particularly for those affected by cancer globally.

Before ascending to the throne, King Charles served as patron to several cancer-related charities, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to supporting cancer patients, their families, and healthcare professionals.

While no further details regarding the king’s treatment or prognosis have been disclosed, he has returned to London for outpatient care. Buckingham Palace has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the postponement or cancellation of the king’s planned engagements.

The announcement of the king’s diagnosis and his subsequent decision to limit public appearances underscore a departure from the historical tradition of concealing royal health matters. Sarah Gristwood, a royal biographer, noted the significance of this transparency, contrasting it with past practices where the severity of King George VI’s illness was concealed, even from the monarch himself.

King Charles III ascended the throne last May following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who held the throne for 70 years until her passing in September 2022.

While the king focuses on his treatment, Queen Camilla will continue with her full public duties. Buckingham Palace emphasized that no counsellors of state will be appointed, indicating that the king intends to continue fulfilling his constitutional duties.

Prince Harry, who resides in California with his family, is set to visit the UK to support his father in the coming days following the announcement of the king’s diagnosis. Despite stepping back from his role as a senior member of the royal family in 2020, Harry remains engaged with family matters, attending significant events such as his grandmother’s funeral and his father’s coronation.

High-Yield Savings Accounts: Earn More & Save in 2024

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High-Yield Savings Accounts: Earn More & Save in 2024

By Michael Esparza

In today’s economic climate, every penny counts. That’s why parking your savings in a traditional savings account might not be the best use of your hard-earned cash. Enter high-yield savings accounts, offering significantly higher interest rates than a traditional savings account. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

What are High-Yield Savings Accounts?

High-yield savings accounts function similarly to traditional savings accounts, allowing you to deposit and withdraw funds easily. However, they typically offer much higher annual percentage yields (APYs), currently ranging from around 2% to over 5%. This means your money grows faster, giving you more bang for your buck.

Let’s say you have $10,000 that you want to save for a year. You have two options: a traditional savings account that pays 0.47% APY, which is the national average according to the FDIC, or a high-yield savings account that pays 5.10% APY, which is one of the best rates available from Bask Bank.

If you choose the traditional savings account, you will earn $47 in interest after a year, and your balance will be $10,047. If you choose the high-yield savings account, you will earn $510 in interest after a year, and your balance will be $10,510. That’s a difference of $463, which is more than 10 times the interest you would earn from a traditional savings account. The more you have in your account, the more interest you receive.

Why Consider a High-Yield Savings Account?

  • Boost your returns: Compared to traditional savings accounts, high-yield accounts can significantly increase your interest earnings.
  • Emergency fund: Keep your emergency fund readily accessible while earning a higher return than a traditional savings account.
  • Savings goals: Save for specific goals like a down payment, tuition, or vacation with a dedicated high-yield account.

Things to Consider When Choosing a High-Yield Savings Account:

  • APY: This is the key factor but remember rates can fluctuate.
  • Minimum balance requirements: Some accounts require a minimum balance to earn the advertised APY.
  • Monthly maintenance fees: Avoid accounts with monthly fees, as they can eat into your earnings.
  • ATM access: Not all high-yield accounts offer ATM cards or widespread ATM networks.
  • Account features: Some accounts offer bonus interest for meeting certain requirements.

Banks with Top High-Yield Savings Account Rates (as of January 29, 2024):

  • Bask Bank: 5.10% APY, no minimum balance, no monthly fees.
  • Affirm: 4.35% APY, no minimum balance, no monthly fees.
  • Ally Bank: 4.35% APY, no minimum balance, no monthly fees.
  • Bread Savings: 5.15% APY, $100 minimum balance, no monthly fees.
  • Capital One 360 Performance Savings: 4.35% APY, no minimum balance, no monthly fees.

Remember: This is not an exhaustive list, and rates are subject to change. Always research and compare
different options before deciding.

Additional Tips:

  • Shop around: Compare rates, fees, and features from multiple banks before choosing one.
  • Consider online banks: They often offer higher rates and fewer fees than traditional banks.
  • Read the fine print: Understand all terms and conditions before opening an account.

By choosing the right high-yield savings account, you can watch your savings grow faster and achieve
your financial goals sooner.

Tragic Wildfires in Chile Claim Over 120 Lives as Emergency Response Intensifies

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Tragic Wildfires in Chile Claim Over 120 Lives as Emergency Response Intensifies

Chile is reeling from a devastating wave of wildfires that has tragically claimed the lives of at least 122 individuals, with authorities cautioning that the toll is likely to rise. The Legal Medical Services of Valparaiso shared the grim update on Monday, revealing that 32 bodies have been identified, 40 autopsies conducted, and 10 bodies prepared for handover to grieving families.

The severity of the situation prompted President Gabriel Boric to declare a state of emergency, particularly affecting coastal cities like Viña del Mar and Valparaiso, where thick blankets of smoke have engulfed the regions. The unfolding emergency has forced residents in central areas to evacuate their homes.

Chile is currently grappling with 161 active fires, presenting a formidable challenge for firefighters. While 102 fires have been brought under control, 40 others still rage on, and 19 are under observation, according to Álvaro Hormazábal, the Director of the Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED).

With the nation battling a summer heatwave and neighboring Colombia also grappling with destructive wildfires, South America faces a heightened risk exacerbated by the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, further escalating temperatures.

The UN Environment Programme’s 2022 report warned of the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires globally due to the human-induced climate crisis. The report projected a rise of up to 14% in extreme wildfire events by 2030 and a staggering 30% by 2050.

President Boric expressed deep concern during a press conference, acknowledging fears that the death toll could witness a significant increase. In response, he declared Monday and Tuesday as days of national mourning in honor of the fire victims.

The magnitude of the crisis prompted the deployment of additional military units to affected areas, with the defense ministry ensuring all necessary resources are available. Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of Valparaiso, revealed that curfews are in effect in towns like Viña del Mar, Quilpué, Villa Alemana, and Limache to facilitate firefighting efforts.

In Valparaiso, a popular tourist destination known for its colorful houses and historic old town, local officials reported 372 residents as missing. The fires have caused extensive damage, with nearly 1,400 houses in the municipality of Quilpué alone being affected, according to Valeria Melipillán, the mayor of Quilpué city.

Chile’s Finance Minister Mario Marcel estimated preliminary damages in the Valparaíso region to reach “hundreds of millions of dollars.” Emergency crews continue to prioritize efforts in Valparaiso due to its proximity to urban areas.

As the crisis unfolds, the global community rallies behind Chile, offering support and assistance. Pope Francis, hailing from nearby Argentina, called for prayers for the victims of the devastating fires in central Chile.

As authorities grapple with the ongoing emergency, at least one person has been detained in connection to the wildfires. The individual, reportedly engaged in welding work at his home in the city of Talca, accidentally triggered a fire that rapidly spread to nearby grasslands. The suspect is set to be arraigned in Talca.

As the nation confronts this unprecedented crisis, emergency crews, military units, and communities are uniting to combat the relentless wildfires, illustrating the resilience and solidarity needed to face such environmental challenges. The situation remains dynamic, with responders working tirelessly to contain the fires and ensure the safety of affected residents.

Taylor Swift Stuns Fans with Surprise Album Revelation During Grammys Acceptance Speech

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Taylor Swift Stuns Fans with Surprise Album Revelation During Grammys Acceptance Speech

In a surprising turn of events at the Grammys, Taylor Swift dropped a bombshell announcement, revealing her latest musical endeavor, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Swift, basking in her 13th Grammy win for “Midnights,” expressed gratitude to her fans and disclosed the well-kept secret of her new album, scheduled for release on April 19. The album cover, featuring a black-and-white photo of Swift on a bed, sets the tone for her 11th record, which will comprise 16 tracks and a bonus titled “The Manuscript.”

The revelation came accompanied by a cryptic message shared on Swift’s Twitter account shortly after her acceptance speech. A photo showcased a folder open to a page bearing Swift’s handwritten verses:

“And so I enter into evidence / My tarnished coat of arms / My muses, acquired like bruises / My talismans and charms / The tick, tick, tick of love bombs / My veins of pitch black ink / All’s fair in love and poetry… Sincerely, The Chairman of The Tortured Poets Department.”

Ahead of the 66th annual Grammys, Swift’s website experienced technical difficulties, displaying an “Error 321 Backend fetch failed.” This code, resembling a fax communication error, added to the intrigue. The website also featured a bold, seemingly random line: “hneriergrd,” which clever online detectives unscrambled to reveal the term “red herring,” suggesting misleading or distracting information.

Swift’s artistic flair extended to her website’s coding, where enthusiasts deciphered words like “chairman,” “bruises,” “veins,” “cadence,” “apple cake,” “talisman,” “love bombs,” “muse,” “ink,” “evidence,” and “fake.” These linguistic clues hint at the album’s aesthetic, evoking the ambiance of a black-and-white 1950s police detective show.

As anticipation builds, fans are eagerly awaiting more Easter eggs and revelations as Swift embarks on the 2024 Eras Tour in Japan. Notably, the album is scheduled for release during Swift’s brief hiatus. The excitement surrounding “The Tortured Poets Department” continues to captivate Swifties worldwide.

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