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Shohei Ohtani Signs Record-Breaking 10-Year, $700 Million Deal with Los Angeles Dodgers

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In a stunning turn of events, Shohei Ohtani, initially embroiled in rumors about a trip to Toronto, officially confirmed his signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday. Breaking the news on Instagram, the 29-year-old Japanese phenom announced a historic 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers, making him not only the instant face of the franchise but also the highest-paid player in MLB history.

Expressing gratitude in his Instagram post, Ohtani apologized for the delay in making his decision and stated, “I have decided to choose the Dodgers as my next team.” This momentous deal surpasses the previous MLB record set by Mike Trout’s $426.5 million contract.

The magnitude of Ohtani’s contract also positions it as one of the largest in sports history, eclipsing reported figures for soccer stars like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Notably, the majority of Ohtani’s earnings will be structured as “unprecedented” deferrals, a decision attributed to Ohtani himself. These deferrals, according to an anonymous source familiar with the contract, aim to provide tax benefits for Ohtani and alleviate potential payroll and luxury tax complications for the Dodgers.

With no opt-outs included in the agreement, Ohtani’s deal underscores a long-term commitment to the Dodgers. Despite being limited to designated-hitting duties next season due to his recent second Tommy John surgery, Ohtani is expected to significantly impact the team, transforming an already star-studded lineup that includes MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman.

Evan Phillips, Dodgers closer, expressed excitement about Ohtani’s signing, saying, “It’s unprecedented what we’ve seen Shohei do in years’ past. I think the earnings he’ll be able to bring the Dodgers off the field, his impact as a whole, is going to be record-setting.”

The Dodgers’ pursuit of Ohtani dates back to his high school days, and their admiration for his skillset has only grown over the years. Despite previous attempts to sign him, Ohtani chose to play in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league and later joined the Angels in 2018. Now, after an impressive tenure as both a hitter and a pitcher, Ohtani joins the Dodgers as a transformative player and a key priority for the team.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, speaking at the winter meetings, had emphasized, “Clearly, Shohei is our top priority,” reflecting the organization’s unwavering commitment to securing the exceptional talent of Shohei Ohtani.

Arrest Made in Tragic Death of 16-Year-Old Cheerleader in Edna, TX

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Arrest Made in Tragic Death of 16-Year-Old Cheerleader in Edna, TX

The Edna Police Department has reported a significant development in the case surrounding the death of 16-year-old cheerleader Lizbeth Medina. Officials have arrested Rafael Govea Romero, charging him with the capital murder of the teenager, whose life was tragically cut short in her apartment complex.

The distressing incident came to light when Lizbeth’s mother, Jacquline Medina, discovered her daughter’s absence from the annual town holiday event on December 5, where she was expected to participate with her cheer squad. Concerned, Jacquline went to their residence at the Cottonwood Apartments and made the heartbreaking discovery. Law enforcement was immediately contacted, and despite the efforts of first responders, Lizbeth was pronounced dead at the scene.

The arrest of Romero, described as undocumented by authorities, occurred one day after the Edna Police Department released images believed to be him. The images depicted Romero wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and driving a silver Ford Taurus. Acting swiftly, law enforcement identified and located Romero in the city of Schulenburg, effecting his arrest on Saturday.

Following the arrest, Romero has been booked into the Jackson County Jail, with officials yet to disclose whether he will be granted bond.

On the same day as Romero’s arrest, friends and family members of Lizbeth gathered for a poignant candlelight vigil at the Jackson County Courthouse, coming together to honor and remember the life of the young cheerleader. The community remains in shock and mourning as they grapple with the tragic loss of a promising young life. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Lizbeth Medina’s death are ongoing, and the community awaits further updates from law enforcement officials.

Houston Texans Face Offensive Challenges as Key Players Ruled Out Due to Injuries

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Houston Texans Face Offensive Challenges as Key Players Ruled Out Due to Injuries

The Houston Texans encountered significant setbacks during their Sunday matchup against the New York Jets as leading receiver Nico Collins was ruled out due to a calf injury.

Collins, who suffered the injury early in the Texans’ first drive, managed to surpass the 1,000-yard mark (1,004) in a single season for the first time in his career with a 13-yard reception. However, his achievement was overshadowed by the subsequent injury, leading him to head to the locker room for further evaluation.

Compounding the Texans’ woes, they entered the game without their second and third top receivers in terms of yards. Wide receiver Tank Dell, dealing with a lower leg issue, and tight end Dalton Schultz, nursing a hamstring injury, were both sidelined.

The absence of key offensive weapons took a toll on the Texans’ passing attack in the first half. Quarterback C.J. Stroud struggled, completing just 6 of 12 passes for 28 yards, without recording any touchdowns or interceptions. Additionally, Stroud faced considerable pressure from the opposing defense, enduring three sacks.

In addition to Collins, linebacker Blake Cashman and cornerback Tavierre Thomas also suffered hamstring injuries during the game, leading to their exclusion from the remainder of the contest.

The Texans now face the challenge of regrouping and adjusting their offensive strategy in light of these injuries as they navigate the remainder of the game and plan for the upcoming matchups.

Chris Hollins Secures Victory in Houston Runoff for Chief Financial Officer Position

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Former Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins is running for mayor in 2023 – Houston Public Media

In a decisive victory on Saturday night, Houstonians elected Chris Hollins as the city’s Chief Financial Officer, marking his triumph over Orlando Sanchez in a closely contested runoff vote.

The Chief Financial Officer, or controller, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the city’s financial matters and ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Prior to the runoff, Hollins emphasized his commitment to being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars in an interview with ABC13. He articulated his vision for the role, stating, “Our job is to be an independent watchdog, not a lap dog, but not an attack dog.”

Hollins, who initially entered the race for controller after withdrawing from a crowded mayor’s race, demonstrated strong support by finishing first in the general election held in November.

Speaking about the responsibilities of the controller’s office, Hollins underscored the importance of transparency and accountability. “We’re put in office by the voters so they know what’s going on down at city hall,” he affirmed. “So that they know how their money is being spent, and that we’re fighting every single day to make this a more efficient and effective city government for them, regardless of who the mayor is.”

With this election outcome, Chris Hollins is poised to take on the role of Chief Financial Officer, contributing to the financial well-being and responsible governance of the city of Houston.

Houston Attorney Tony Buzbee loses City Council Race to Incumbent Mary Nan Huffman

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In a closely watched runoff race for the City Council District G seat, prominent Houston lawyer Tony Buzbee conceded to incumbent Mary Nan Huffman on Saturday night. Buzbee, who previously served as the defense attorney for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, acknowledged falling short in a Facebook post and extended his best wishes to Huffman in her continued service to the residents of District G.

“We entered this campaign against an incumbent on literally the last day of filing,” Buzbee explained in his post. “Despite our tardy entry and the apparent opposition from the entire Houston political establishment, with hard work and grassroots support, we pushed an incumbent into a runoff. Unfortunately, despite our efforts, we fell short.”

At the time of his concession, Buzbee trailed Huffman with 43 percent to her 56 percent, with Election Day ballots still undergoing counting.

Buzbee’s defeat follows his performance in the Nov. 7 general election, where he secured 41.29 percent of the vote compared to Huffman’s 49.45 percent, just shy of the 50.1 percent required for an outright victory. In the month leading up to the runoff, both candidates invested substantial funds, with their campaigns collectively spending over $500,000, according to campaign finance reports.

Mary Nan Huffman’s victory concludes an intensely scrutinized and contentious city council race that showcased a clash between Buzbee, a flamboyant trial lawyer known for representing Astroworld Festival victims and individuals suing former Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, and Huffman, a trusted incumbent vying for representation in one of Houston’s affluent districts.

Despite Buzbee’s courtroom theatrics, Huffman secured the Nov. 7 vote with over an eight-point lead. Reflecting on her previous accomplishments, Huffman’s campaign highlighted her success as a council member, overseeing the approval of more than 50 infrastructure projects in District G and facilitating the reopening of a library damaged during Hurricane Harvey. Additionally, she emphasized her endorsements from law enforcement entities, including the police officers’ union, three Harris County Constables, and other police organizations.

Huffman, a former prosecutor for the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office who currently serves as an attorney for the Houston Police Officers’ Union, initially secured her city council seat through a special election in early 2022, replacing Greg Davis.

Houston Elects Senator John Whitmire as Next Mayor

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Houston Elects Senator John Whitmire as Next Mayor


In a decisive election held on Saturday night, Houston elected 74-year-old Democratic state Senator John Whitmire as its next mayor, besting U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee in a runoff. With a political career spanning 50 years, Whitmire, one of Texas’ most influential Democratic legislators, now assumes leadership over America’s fourth-largest city.

In an exclusive interview with ABC13’s Brooke Taylor just before his acceptance speech, Whitmire expressed his optimism for Houston, stating, “We ran a very positive campaign. Houston is a great city – it’s a special city, and we’re demonstrating it tonight.” His campaign primarily focused on addressing issues such as reducing crime, improving infrastructure, and fostering unity within the diverse community.

Whitmire’s victory marked a notable contrast in campaign spending, as he significantly outspent Jackson Lee, who aimed to become Houston’s first Black female mayor. Emphasizing a commitment to creating a safer city and resolving longstanding problems, Whitmire asserted, “We’re not New York or Chicago or LA. We’re Houston. We fix our problems.”

The runoff followed a crowded field of nearly 20 candidates in the general election on Nov. 7, where both Whitmire and Jackson Lee emerged as leading contenders. The campaigns of these political stalwarts highlighted their extensive political experience, each boasting decades in public service, as qualifications to address the city’s challenges, including crime, infrastructure issues, and potential budget shortfalls.

Houston’s growth over the past decade has presented challenges, but it has also solidified its position as an expanding stronghold for Texas Democrats. While the mayoral race is officially nonpartisan, both Whitmire and Jackson Lee are Democrats. Whitmire, who began his political career in the Texas Legislature in 1973, will now hold the distinction of being the oldest big city mayor in the U.S.

The choice between Whitmire and Jackson Lee, both in their 70s, has sparked frustration among some Democratic voters, particularly younger ones seeking new political voices in Texas.

The new mayor inherits a city facing legislative changes from the GOP-led state government, impacting local elections and regulatory powers. Whitmire succeeds Mayor Sylvester Turner, serving eight years and unable to run again due to term limits.

Houston, recognized as the energy capital of the world, faces economic shifts toward cleaner energy. The city also grapples with challenges common to many large U.S. cities, including affordable housing shortages and concerns about economic inequality. As Whitmire assumes leadership, he navigates a diverse metropolis, with 45% Latino, 23% Black, and 24% white residents, reflecting the city’s status as one of the most diverse in the country.

2023 Heisman Trophy: Finalists and Ceremony Details Revealed

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2023 Heisman Trophy: Finalists and Ceremony Details Revealed

The anticipation for the pinnacle of individual achievement in college football is building, as the 2023 Heisman Trophy finalists have been revealed. The ceremony, set to take place on Saturday, December 9 at 8 p.m. ET, will unfold at the Appel Room in the Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. Here’s an overview of the four contenders and what to expect from the ceremony.

How to Watch: The announcement of the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner will be broadcast on ESPN in the United States.

Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State: Marvin Harrison Jr., following in the footsteps of his Pro Football Hall of Fame father, has had a remarkable 2023 campaign as a wide receiver for Ohio State. The 21-year-old, standing at six feet four inches, capped off the season with 1,211 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He recently secured the Fred Biletnikoff Award for the best wide receiver in college football and earned distinctions as the Big Ten Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year and Wide Receiver of the Year. If Harrison Jr. clinches the Heisman, he would mark the eighth Heisman winner in Ohio State’s history.

Bo Nix, QB, Oregon: Bo Nix, in his fifth and final season with the Oregon Ducks, has led the program to a No. 8 ranking with an impressive 11-2 record. The 23-year-old quarterback boasts a remarkable 77.2% completion percentage, ranking him among the top in the country. Nix’s Heisman nomination is the culmination of a standout college football career, including a transfer from Auburn to Oregon. He aims to become the second Oregon player to win the award, following Marcus Mariota in 2014.

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU: Jayden Daniels, a transfer student from Arizona State, has been in exceptional form throughout the season. The 22-year-old quarterback has already garnered accolades, being named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year and receiving the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. Daniels led LSU to a successful 2023 season, topping national statistics for a quarterback in total offense, passing touchdowns, total touchdowns, and rushing yards by a quarterback. If he secures the Heisman, Daniels will join the ranks of LSU stars like Joe Burrow.

Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington: Another transfer student, Michael Penix Jr., arrived from Indiana in late 2021, making a significant impact on the Washington Huskies’ remarkable season. The team finished with a perfect 13-0 record and claimed the Pac-12 Championship. Penix Jr., leading from the front, topped the nation in passing yards with 4,218 and threw 33 passing touchdowns in 2023. He aspires to become the first Heisman Trophy winner in Washington’s history, with the Huskies eyeing their third-ever claimed National Championship.

As the Heisman Trophy ceremony approaches, football enthusiasts eagerly await the crowning of the 2023 winner, who will join the illustrious list of college football greats.

Army-Navy Game Moves to New England for the First Time

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Army-Navy Game Moves to New England for the First Time

In a groundbreaking development for the renowned Army vs. Navy football rivalry, the annual matchup will unfold in New England for the first time in its storied history.

Traditionally held in Philadelphia, the 2022 edition took place at the Eagles’ Lincoln Financial Field. However, this season marks the commencement of a four-year rotation among different stadiums before the game returns to Philadelphia in 2027.

The 2023 Army-Navy Game is scheduled to be held at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, marking the eighth state to host this iconic clash. Out of the 123 previous matchups, an overwhelming 90 have been hosted in Philadelphia, a strategic location due to its proximity to Annapolis, Maryland (125 miles), and West Point, New York (142 miles).

The shift to Massachusetts provides a slight advantage to the Army, given that Gillette Stadium is only 209 miles away from West Point, compared to the 414 miles from Annapolis.

Key Details about the Army vs. Navy Game in 2023:

Location: Foxborough, Massachusetts

The Army-Navy game in 2023 will take place in Foxborough, Massachusetts, deviating from its traditional venue. Gillette Stadium, home to the New England Patriots and the New England Revolution, will host this historic rivalry.

Stadium Details: Gillette Stadium

  • Capacity: 64,628

Gillette Stadium, with a seating capacity of 64,628, will host the Army vs. Navy game for the first time. Notably, this stadium has approximately 5,000 fewer seats than Lincoln Financial Field, where the game was hosted last season.

Why Massachusetts?

The decision to hold the 2023 Army-Navy game in Massachusetts aligns with several significant anniversaries in American history. Notable milestones include the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, the 225th anniversary of the USS Constitution’s maiden voyage, and the 124th edition of the iconic Army vs. Navy rivalry.

Additionally, Massachusetts holds rich historical ties with the Army and Navy, being the birthplace of the National Guard in 1636. The state is home to the Charlestown Navy Yard, one of the country’s original Navy shipyards, and the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat. The battles of Lexington and Concord, pivotal moments in the American Revolution, further contribute to Massachusetts’ historical significance.

Future Army vs. Navy Locations Through 2027:

  • Dec. 14, 2024: FedEx Field (Landover, Md.)
  • Dec. 13, 2025: M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore, Md.)
  • Dec. 12, 2026: MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, N.J.)
  • Dec. 11, 2027: Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia)

Historical Context:

Ninety out of the 123 Army vs. Navy matchups have historically taken place in Philadelphia. Seven games were played at West Point, N.Y., and Annapolis, with various locations hosting games outside Philadelphia since the game’s inauguration. The 2023 shift to Foxborough, Massachusetts, adds another chapter to the rich history of this enduring rivalry.

Biden Administration Approves Emergency Sale of Tank Ammunition to Israel

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Biden Administration Approves Emergency Sale of Tank Ammunition to Israel

In a move circumventing Congressional processes, the Biden administration announced on Saturday its approval of the emergency sale of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition to Israel. The munitions, valued at over $106 million, come as Israel escalates military operations in the southern Gaza Strip.

While President Joe Biden’s request for a substantial $106 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and national security remains stalled in Congress, entangled in discussions on U.S. immigration policy and border security, the administration has chosen to expedite assistance to Israel independently.

The State Department disclosed the sale late Friday, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken determining that “an emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” in the U.S. national security interest. This decision allows the purchase to bypass the usual congressional review for foreign military sales, a rare but not unprecedented move employed in urgent situations.

In a statement, the State Department emphasized the commitment to Israel’s security, stating, “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives.” The ammunition, totaling $106.5 million, includes 13,981 120 mm High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer tank cartridges, along with U.S. support, engineering, and logistics, all sourced from the Army inventory.

Such emergency determinations for arms sales have historically faced resistance from lawmakers, who typically have a window of time to assess and potentially block proposed weapons transfers. This decision echoes a similar move in May 2019 when then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an emergency determination for an $8.1 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, amid concerns about the Saudi-UAE-led war in Yemen.

Tragic Death of 16-Year-Old Cheerleader Sparks Investigation in Edna, Texas

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Tragic Death of 16-Year-Old Cheerleader Sparks Investigation in Edna, Texas

In the wake of the heartbreaking discovery of 16-year-old cheerleader Lizbeth Medina’s lifeless body in her Edna apartment, the Edna Police Department has released images of a person and vehicle of interest in connection to the case.

The photos, shared by the police department, depict an individual sporting a black ‘Volcom’ hooded sweatshirt, believed to be the driver of a silver Ford Taurus with a model year spanning from 2010 to 2018.

Notably, the man in question may bear a tattoo behind his right ear, as mentioned in the police release, though no further details regarding his physical appearance were provided.

The tragic incident unfolded on December 5 when the Edna police received a distress call reporting an unresponsive juvenile at the Cottonwood Apartments. Regrettably, Lizbeth was pronounced dead at the scene.

Jacquline Medina, Lizbeth’s mother, revealed that she discovered her daughter’s lifeless body after Lizbeth failed to attend the town’s Lighted Christmas Parade with her cheer squad.

“Words can’t explain what I felt at that moment, finding my daughter in the manner that she was,” expressed Medina in an interview with Crossroads Today.

Law enforcement officials have classified the case as a capital murder investigation, enlisting the assistance of the Texas Rangers and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

A community vigil to commemorate Lizbeth’s life is scheduled for Saturday, December 9, at 6 p.m. at Cowboy Stadium in Edna. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to aid the family with funeral expenses.

Individuals possessing any information related to this case are urged to contact the Edna Police Department at 361-782-6522 or reach out to Crime Stoppers at 361-552-CASH (2274). The community remains on alert as authorities intensify efforts to solve this tragic mystery.

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