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Harris County Authorities Launch No Refusal DWI Initiative for New Year’s Weekend

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No Refusal Weekend - Law Office of Gary Tabakman, PLLC

As the New Year’s holiday weekend approaches, authorities in Harris County are issuing a stern warning against drinking and driving. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office unveiled its comprehensive plans on Thursday for a “No Refusal DWI Initiative” aimed at curbing intoxicated driving incidents during the end-of-year celebrations.

Under this initiative, intoxicated or impaired drivers will not have the option to refuse a blood alcohol test when suspected of impairment. The enforcement efforts will be visible across Harris County, with checkpoints set up starting Friday night, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to drunk driving.

This annual initiative is part of ongoing efforts to ensure public safety during the holiday season. Last year’s campaign resulted in 42 DWI arrests and an additional 18 arrests unrelated to DWI.

Harris County has unfortunately gained notoriety for having one of the highest rates of deadly DWI crashes in the country. According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the county witnessed 148 fatalities in DUI-related crashes in 2022. Statewide, over 1,000 lives were lost in accidents involving impaired drivers.

During a press conference on Thursday, the family of Deputy Jennifer Chavis, who lost her life to a suspected drunk driver in 2022, emphasized the personal toll of these incidents. Chavis’s sister remarked, “When we talk about realities, this is the reality of drunk driving that you see before you. We and their family as well stand before you with pictures because that’s all that we have left.”

Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner, also present at the press conference, stressed the preventable nature of these incidents, stating, “And that’s what’s so frustrating because we come time and time again – and Harris County time and time again leads the nation in DWI-related deaths. Because you don’t want to be in jail, but we’re going to be out there. And most importantly – we don’t want to see any more victims.”

Highlighting recent legislative measures, it was noted that House Bill 393, passed earlier this year, mandates drunk drivers convicted of intoxication manslaughter to pay child support if they cause the death of a child’s guardian. Payments are required until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school.

As New Year’s Eve approaches, celebrants are strongly advised to plan ahead by arranging a ride home with a sober friend, family member, or rideshare service. Alternatively, staying put until sober is strongly encouraged to ensure the safety of all road users. Authorities emphasize the shared responsibility in preventing the tragic consequences of drunk driving incidents.

Texans Triumph as C.J. Stroud Leads Convincing Victory Over Titans

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Texans Triumph as C.J. Stroud Leads Convincing Victory Over Titans

In a stunning return to the quarterback position, C.J. Stroud orchestrated a dominant performance for the Houston Texans, securing a resounding 26-3 triumph over division rivals, the Tennessee Titans.

The win places the Texans on the cusp of a playoff berth, with the condition that they defeat the Indianapolis Colts in the upcoming weekend—a victory that would mark their return to the postseason for the first time since the 2019 season.

Throughout the game, the Houston defense showcased its prowess, with rookie sensation Will Anderson Jr. notching two sacks. Anderson’s impressive feat brings his season total to seven sacks, setting a new Texans rookie record.

Before kick-off, injured receiver Tank Dell ignited the crowd with an electrifying pre-game moment.

First-Half Highlights: The Texans wasted no time getting on the scoreboard in the first quarter, courtesy of Ka’imi Fairbairn’s successful 28-yard field goal.

As the first quarter concluded with this solitary scoring act, the Texans intensified their offensive drive in the second quarter. Devin Singletary’s impactful run propelled Houston past the Titans’ 50-yard line, setting the stage for Stroud’s game-defining 12-yard touchdown pass to Brevin Jordan.

The momentum continued for the Texans as Sheldon Rankins executed a scoop and score, extending Houston’s lead to 17-0. Fairbairn contributed an additional three points, establishing a commanding 20-0 advantage.

While the Titans managed to break onto the scoreboard just before halftime, relentless defensive efforts, including back-to-back sacks by Will Anderson, thwarted their potential for a more substantial comeback.

With these two sacks, Anderson solidified his place in the record books, setting a rookie record for most sacks in a season at an impressive seven.

Second-Half Highlights: The Texans maintained their offensive prowess in the second half, as they drove down the field for another successful Fairbairn field goal, expanding their lead to 23-3.

Texans’ Playoffs Chances Stand at 37.7%: Crucial Wins Needed in Season’s Final Stretch

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Texans’ Playoffs Chances Stand at 37.7%: Crucial Wins Needed in Season’s Final Stretch

As the curtain falls on the 2023 NFL regular season, the Houston Texans find themselves in a position many deemed improbable just a few months ago—alive and well in the playoff race.

With a record of 8-7 and two games left in the regular season, the Texans have already surpassed their win total from the previous two seasons combined, signaling a remarkable turnaround from the struggles of recent years.

The path to the playoffs is clear but not without challenges. The straightforward route is for the Texans to secure victories in both of their remaining games. If they emerge victorious in the home finale against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday and clinch a win in the season finale on January 7 against the Indianapolis Colts, the Texans will guarantee themselves a coveted playoff berth. Even if they drop one of the final two games, there exist scenarios in which the Texans can still clinch a playoff spot, albeit with some reliance on outcomes in other matchups.

According to ESPN, as the Texans enter Week 17, their chances of reaching the postseason stand at 37.7%. NFL.com provides further insight, indicating that a victory against the Titans on New Year’s Eve would significantly boost the Texans’ playoff odds to 51%. Conversely, a loss in the penultimate game of the season drops their playoff chances to a less optimistic 13%, as per NFL.com’s projections.

The Texans’ unexpected resurgence has injected excitement into the final stretch of the regular season, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of pivotal matchups that could determine the team’s playoff fate. The franchise, absent from the postseason since 2019, is poised for a dramatic conclusion to the 2023 campaign.

Bizarre Break-In at Spring Branch Bar Leaves Managers Puzzled

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Bizarre Break-In at Spring Branch Bar Leaves Managers Puzzled

Managers of a recently opened bar in Spring Branch are grappling with the peculiar motivations of a brazen burglar who executed a bizarre break-in on the property early Christmas morning. The incident, first reported by KHOU 11’s Stephen Goin, unfolded at The Decoy, where security cameras captured the intruder lifting the outdoor patio gate off its hinges and indulging in a rather unconventional spree.

According to Bar General Manager Miguel Cruz, the mysterious trespasser, equipped with a suitcase, proceeded to change clothes and embarked on an eight-hour escapade around the premises. The man, caught on camera, helped himself to water from the outdoor station and engaged in peculiar activities, including igniting small fires on the bar’s beach volleyball court.

“He went right into the front, got some water from the water filler station, hung out,” shared Cruz, recounting the incident with a laugh. “I’m sure if the TV was on, he probably would’ve stayed all night.”

Throughout his extended stay, the intruder reportedly partook in various activities, from consuming food to tossing around “pornographic materials” while reclining on bar seating. The audacious break-in concluded with the suspect discreetly hiding as a cleaning service arrived, unaware of the unwelcome guest. Fortunately, no harm befell the cleaning crew.

“He had the opportunity to get into the building and do something harmful to our cleaning crew—two ladies—and they had no idea this was happening,” explained Cruz. “We’re grateful. At the end of the day, nobody got hurt.”

As the suspect vanished into the night, he left behind a trail of destruction, with thousands of dollars in damages, according to Goin’s report. The unidentified individual, who remains at large, exited the bar premises with some volleyball equipment in tow.

This incident marks the latest and most peculiar in a series of burglaries targeting bars and restaurants in the Houston area. In early November, a thief targeted Taste of Tel Aviv, an Israeli-owned kosher restaurant in Meyerland, making off with a cash register after breaking through the front door. Initially considered a potential hate crime, authorities later categorized the case as a “straight-up burglary.”

Texas Rings in New Year with Controversial Laws Affecting Higher Education, Taxation, and Justice

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Texas Rings in New Year with Controversial Laws Affecting Higher Education, Taxation, and Justice

As Texas college students prepare to return to their campuses after the winter break, a looming change awaits them—the lights in their campuses’ diversity offices will remain dimmed. A new law, effective January 1, 2024, prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts at the state’s higher education institutions, sparking debates over its potential impact on campus inclusivity.

Senate Bill 17 mandates the discontinuation of DEI work, including training for faculty and staff, and the exclusion of diversity statements in hiring processes. Universities are required to confirm compliance with these regulations to the Legislature between sessions. Although the law officially takes effect in the new year, many public universities in Texas have already begun scaling down their DEI practices in response to legal uncertainties and guidance issued by the governor’s chief of staff.

In addition to dissolving DEI offices, universities are grappling with the closure of university-led student support programs, raising concerns about potential violations of the law. While some institutions explore workarounds, such as the establishment of alternative centers promoting inclusivity, others face the challenge of navigating a complex landscape created by the new legislation.

The impact extends beyond DEI initiatives, affecting the hiring process for new faculty members. Although the law exempts class instruction, materials required for federal grant applications, and student organizations, university officials report increased difficulties in recruiting diverse faculty.

Beyond the realm of higher education, the new year in Texas brings forth 29 additional laws targeting various aspects of the economy, tax codes, and the criminal justice system. Notable changes include:

  • Streamlining Tax Exemptions: Senate Bill 1381 and House Bill 4077 ease requirements on property reappraisals for spouses inheriting property, and House Bill 2354 prevents the transfer of ownership for tax purposes when land is left to a spouse.
  • Diverting Minors Charged with Class C Misdemeanors: House Bill 3186 introduces alternative measures, such as diversion plans, for minors charged with class C misdemeanors, offering support programs in lieu of fines.
  • Expanding Exemptions for Charitable Organizations: House Bill 1058 and House Bill 4645 provide tax credits and exemptions for charitable organizations investing in low-income housing, and House Bill 456 exempts such organizations from taxes on certain mineral interests.
  • New Standard for Homeowner Association Fees: House Bill 614 mandates homeowner association boards to adopt standardized enforcement policies for fines, requiring transparent communication about potential violations.
  • Restricting E-cigarette Advertising to Minors: House Bill 4758 criminalizes the use of images of food, celebrities, or cartoon characters on e-cigarette packaging, aiming to combat vaping among minors.
  • Improving Understanding of Patient Insurance Plans: House Bill 4500 obligates insurance providers to create secure portals for healthcare providers, streamlining the process of determining patients’ insurance coverage.

As the Lone Star State ushers in 2024, these laws spark discussions and debates over their implications for higher education, taxation, and justice within Texas communities.

Ringing in 2024: 7 New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Greater Houston

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Ringing in 2024: 7 New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Greater Houston

As the countdown to 2024 begins, Greater Houston is gearing up for a festive array of New Year’s Eve events. Here’s a roundup of celebrations happening across the area:

  1. NYE Bash at The Weird Sister
    • The Weird Sister bar in Tomball invites you to a lively New Year’s Eve extravaganza. Enjoy a chance to win a bottle of Moet champagne in a raffle, dance to a DJ’s beats, savor food and drink specials, and anticipate a midnight balloon drop with exciting prizes.
    • When: Dec. 31, 9 p.m.
    • Where: 23227 Snook Lane, Tomball
    • Cost: Free admission
    • More Info
  2. Home Run Dugout’s Family-Friendly NYE
    • Home Run Dugout in Katy hosts a family-friendly New Year’s Eve event featuring a Sol Flair performance, fireworks, a bounce house, a photo booth, face painting, and a thrilling Dinger Derby competition.
    • When: Dec. 31, 7 p.m.
    • Where: 1220 Grand West Blvd., Katy
    • Cost: Free admission
    • More Info
  3. New Year’s Eve at 202 Main
    • Join the fourth annual New Year’s Eve extravaganza at 202 Main in Conroe, offering drink specials, DJ Slickback, gourmet eats, and indulgent luxury desserts.
    • When: Dec. 31, 7 p.m.
    • Where: 202 N. Main St., Conroe
    • Cost: $25 admission
    • More Info
  4. Tomball VFW NYE Dance
    • The Tomball VFW presents a New Year’s Eve dance featuring Doug Boggs and The Country Jazz Band. Secure your tickets in advance and enjoy a night of lively music and dancing.
    • When: Dec. 31, 8 p.m.-midnight
    • Where: 14408 Alice Road, Tomball
    • Cost: $20 (advance), $25 (cash only at the door)
    • More Info
  5. NYE at Pacific Yard House
    • Pacific Yard House in Conroe hosts a glitter-themed New Year’s Eve event featuring piano music and the lively tunes of Yelba’s Variety Band.
    • When: Dec. 31, 7 p.m.
    • Where: 101 Metcalf St., Conroe
    • Cost: $15 per reserved seat
    • More Info
  6. High Noon Countdown
    • The Woodlands Children’s Museum offers a New Year’s Eve event for children and families. Join in the festivities with a balloon drop, classic holiday carols by Tom’s Fun Band, and a time capsule project.
    • When: Dec. 30; 9:30-11 a.m., 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m., and 2-3:30 p.m.
    • Where: 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands
    • Cost: $20 (children ages 1-13), $10 (adults)
    • More Info
  7. Circe De Centric New Year’s Eve Party
    • Market Street in The Woodlands hosts an upscale New Year’s Eve event with an exquisite dinner, complimentary drinks, music, dancing, multiple entertainers, and a midnight champagne toast. This event is exclusively for adults aged 21 and up.
    • When: Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m.
    • Where: Hyatt Centric The Woodlands, 9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste. 1100, The Woodlands
    • Cost: $199 admission
    • More Info

Alzheimer’s Rates Soar Among Hispanic Communities

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Alzheimer’s Rates Soar Among Hispanic Communities

Recent data from the Alzheimer’s Association reveals that Hispanics are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease compared to white Americans. However, experts argue that cultural factors may indicate a higher prevalence of the disease among Hispanics than reported numbers suggest.

Alarming rates of Alzheimer’s diagnoses are particularly evident in border counties in Texas, where data from the Alzheimer’s Association indicates rates ranging from 13% to 18% among individuals aged 65 and over. Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, not only affects patients but also places a significant burden on caregivers, often family members.

Joe Arciniega, a member of the National Board of Directors of the Alzheimer’s Association, highlights that Hispanic families often downplay the possibility of Alzheimer’s due to a fear of embarrassment, making diagnosis and understanding the disease challenging. The protective nature of Hispanic families around their elderly members may inadvertently contribute to underdiagnosis.

Cultural barriers further complicate the situation, as many Hispanic families dismiss dementia symptoms as a normal part of aging, according to Arciniega. This, coupled with a gap in Alzheimer’s education, calls for increased programs in higher education focused on dementia care and treatment, along with targeted outreach to families.

Gladys Maestre, a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, emphasizes that the values of the Hispanic community can interfere with diagnosis and patient care. Language barriers also play a role, as English as a second language, coupled with medical terminology, poses challenges for Hispanic families.

Admitting the presence of a problem proves difficult for Hispanics, influenced by a cultural emphasis on respecting elders, says Alzheimer’s Association Executive Director Greg Sciuto. Breaking down the stigma associated with a diagnosis becomes crucial to encourage individuals to come forward.

Lack of representation in clinical trials is identified as a consequence of cultural views among Hispanics. Joe Arciniega notes that inadequate representation limits medical understandings of risk factors and interventions specific to non-White patients who face a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Christopher Johnson, a clinical professor of sociology at Texas State University, highlights the need for outreach to Latino families to increase Hispanic representation in clinical trials. Johnson identifies language and cultural barriers as significant hurdles.

Empowering caregivers with knowledge about Alzheimer’s and fostering an understanding of the disease help remove stigma and support families, according to experts. The strong family social support in Hispanic communities is acknowledged, but the stress experienced by caregivers is also recognized.

As efforts to address Alzheimer’s disparities continue, education, outreach, and support for caregivers emerge as crucial components in mitigating the impact of Alzheimer’s disease within Hispanic communities.

City of Houston Provides 23 Convenient Christmas Tree Recycling Drop-Off Locations

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City of Houston Provides 23 Convenient Christmas Tree Recycling Drop-Off Locations

As the holiday season fades into the rearview mirror, residents are faced with the question of what to do with their Christmas trees. For those who opted for plastic trees, the solution is simple – disassemble and stow away for next year. However, if you chose a live tree this year, the City of Houston encourages you to recycle, emphasizing their commitment to sustainability.

Running until Friday, January 26, the Houston Solid Waste Management Department has established 23 Christmas tree recycling drop-off locations across the city. This initiative aims to promote the recycling of live trees, which are biodegradable and contribute positively to the environment.

Residents can conveniently drop off their Christmas trees at various locations throughout Houston, open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023. The designated drop-off locations include:

  • Central Neighborhood Depository: 2240 Central St.
  • Kirkpatrick Neighborhood Depository: 5565 Kirkpatrick
  • Sommermeyer Neighborhood Depository: 14400 Sommermeyer
  • N. Main Neighborhood Depository: 9003 N. Main
  • Southwest Neighborhood Depository: 10785 SW Freeway
  • Sunbeam Neighborhood Depository: 5100 Sunbeam

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. are:

  • Kingwood (Branch Library) – Bens View Lane @ Bens Branch Drive
  • Doss Park – 2500 Frick Road (County Park), gates close at 5 p.m.
  • Memorial Park (2 Locations):
    • Softball Parking lot: 6402 Arnot St, Houston, TX 77007
    • Sports Complex
  • T.C. Jester Park: 4200 T.C. Jester West
  • Ellington Airport Recycling Drop-off: HWY 3 @ Brantley Road

Operating Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Monday, Dec. 25, and Jan. 15, are:

  • Westpark Consumer Recycling Center: 5900 Westpark
  • Living Earth: MON-FRI 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 7:00 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Living Earth locations closed on both Monday, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1, include:

  • 5802 Crawford Rd.
  • 1503 Industrial Dr, Missouri City
  • 1700 Highway 90A East, Richmond
  • 12202 Cutten Road
  • 16138 Highway 6
  • 5210 S. Sam Houston Pkwy E
  • 27733 Katy Freeway, Katy TX
  • 10310 Beaumont Highway
  • 17555 I-45 South, Conroe TX
  • 20611 US Hwy 59, New Caney TX
  • 9306 FM 523, Freeport TX

It’s important to note that only live trees will be accepted, and before dropping off your tree, ensure it is free of all ornaments, lights, strands, and any non-organic decorations.

For those looking to participate in a community tree recycling event, mark your calendars for January 5, when an event will take place at Houston City Hall’s reflection pool at 11:30. Join fellow residents in contributing to a greener and more sustainable Houston by recycling your Christmas trees at these designated drop-off locations.

METRO Anuncia Viajes Gratuitos y Servicio Limitado Durante la Víspera y el Día de Año Nuevo

Edward Saenz
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Por Edward Saenz e Indira Zaldivar

Encimándose el 2024, METRO ofrece viajes gratuitos a partir de las 6 p.m. en la víspera de Año Nuevo hasta las 6 a.m. del día de Año Nuevo. En observancia de las festividades, el sistema de tránsito también operará con un horario limitado para la próxima víspera y día de Año Nuevo.

El domingo 31 de diciembre, los servicios locales de autobuses, METRORail, METRORapid y curb2curb seguirán los horarios de los domingos. Además, los carriles HOV operados por METRO permanecerán abiertos para facilitar el flujo de tráfico. Las rutas de Park & Ride no estarán operativas.

Similar a la víspera de Año Nuevo, el horario del Día de Año Nuevo será el siguiente: los servicios locales de autobuses, METRORail, METRORapid y curb2curb operarán según los horarios de los domingos. Las rutas de Park & Ride no estarán en servicio durante ambos días festivos. Sin embargo, los carriles HOV operados por METRO estarán cerrados durante el día pero reanudarán su operación normal el 2 de enero.

Durante ambos días, el Centro de Atención al Cliente de METRO, las Tiendas de Viajes y los Servicios de Objeto Perdido no estarán disponibles.

Este horario ajustado tiene como objetivo adaptarse al período festivo mientras garantiza servicios de
transporte esenciales para el público. Se recomienda a los pasajeros que planifiquen sus viajes en consecuencia y tomen nota de las modificaciones específicas en el servicio durante las festividades de Año Nuevo.

METRO Announces Free Rides, Limited Service During New Year’s Eve and Day

Edward Saenz
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By Edward Saenz & Indira Zaldivar

As 2024 rolls in, METRO is offering free rides starting at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve through 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day. In observation of the holidays, the transit system is also operating on a limited schedule for the upcoming New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

On Sunday, Dec. 31, local bus services, METRORail, METRORapid, and curb2curb will follow Sunday schedules. Along with this, METRO-operated HOV Lanes will remain open to accommodate traffic flow. Park & Ride routes will not be operational.

Similar to New Year’s Eve, the News Year’s Day schedule will be as follows: local bus services, METRORail, METRORapid, and curb2curb will operate on Sunday schedules.

Park & Ride routes will not be in service during the two holidays.

However, METRO-operated HOV Lanes will be closed for the day but will resume normal operation on Jan 2.

During both these days, the METRO Customer Service Call Center, RideStores, and Lost & Found services will not be available. This adjusted schedule aims to accommodate the holiday period while ensuring essential transportation services for the public. Riders are advised to plan their trips accordingly and take note of the specific service modifications during the New Year’s holiday.

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