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Texas and Washington Fight for Playoff Glory in Sugar Bowl Showdown

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Texas and Washington Fight for Playoff Glory in Sugar Bowl Showdown

In a high-stakes showdown, neither the Pac-12 nor the Big 12 has tasted national championship glory during the four-team College Football Playoff era. As the curtains fall on their current conference affiliations, No. 2 Washington (13-0) and No. 3 Texas (12-1) gear up to clash in the Sugar Bowl, the second of Monday’s College Football Playoff semifinals, scheduled for 8:45 p.m. ET in New Orleans. This matchup marks the Huskies’ second appearance in the CFP, having previously bowed out in the semifinals in 2016, while the Longhorns make their Playoff debut.

For the unfortunate loser on Monday night, it will signify the end of an era in its current conference. Washington is set to join the Big Ten after this season, while Texas embarks on a new journey in the SEC.

Despite the Pac-12 and Big 12 collectively holding a modest 2-7 record in the Playoff, both Washington and Texas have emerged as formidable contenders for the national title in 2023. Washington, spearheaded by Heisman Trophy finalist Michael Penix Jr., boasts an impressive 4-0 record against teams in the final CFP rankings. Meanwhile, Texas claims a standout victory of the season, securing a 10-point triumph at Alabama in September, and rallying with seven consecutive wins following a setback against arch-rival Oklahoma.

For live updates leading up to kickoff, stay tuned with The Athletic’s dedicated coverage.

Date: Monday, Time: 8:45 p.m. ET, Location: New Orleans, Broadcast: ESPN

As the anticipation builds, odds favor Texas with a -3.5 spread. Football enthusiasts are invited to tune in to ESPN for the thrilling clash between these two powerhouse teams in a bid to secure their spot in the coveted national championship game.

John Whitmire Takes Oath as Houston’s 63rd Mayor

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John Whitmire Takes Oath as Houston’s 63rd Mayor


In a heartfelt ceremony, surrounded by family and close friends, John Whitmire officially assumed the role of the City of Houston’s 63rd mayor shortly after the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2024.

The early morning swearing-in unfolded in the dignified City Hall Proclamation Room, presided over by Harris County Justice of the Peace Victor Trevino, III. The oath of office was administered as Whitmire, placing his left hand on a bible held by his daughters, Whitney Whitmire Jenkins and Sarah Whitmire, pledged his commitment to serve the vibrant city.

Mayor John Whitmire, flanked by his daughters, taking the oath of office

Following the brief yet significant ceremony, Mayor Whitmire took the podium, expressing his dedication to ushering in a new era of ‘total transparency’ within his administration. He took the opportunity to extol the greatness of Houston, emphasizing the collective effort needed to propel the city forward.

“We have a great city with great people, and we must do everything possible to ensure Houston goes forward and becomes greater. From our Medical Center to our Port to the Spaceport, we will do everything we can,” remarked Mayor Whitmire.

After the celebratory moment, Mayor Whitmire wasted no time in joining Police Chief Troy Finner for a ride-along across various neighborhoods in Houston. The purpose was to gain firsthand insight into the challenges faced by first responders and underscore the importance of public safety.

“I am making public safety my highest priority from day one,” he declared, “supporting our officers and improving public safety for all our communities. Chief Finner and I are going to go to scenes throughout the morning to show our appreciation for first responders and let the citizens of Houston know that we have no higher priority than to do everything we can to make this a safer city, and I know we can do it. I know that officers are fired up to work for Chief Finner and Mayor Whitmire. Let’s go to work.”

Mayor Whitmire and Police Chief Finner on a ride-along

Beyond the immediate focus on public safety, Mayor Whitmire outlined a comprehensive agenda, promising to create a balanced and transparent budget, enhance city services, restructure the permitting office, address homelessness, combat illegal dumping, and upgrade critical infrastructure, including the water system, flooding, and drainage.

The official public inauguration of Mayor Whitmire, alongside City Controller Chris Hollins and the Houston City Council, is set to take place at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2, at the esteemed Wortham Theater Center. The event will mark the formal commencement of their respective roles in guiding the city’s future.

U.S. Mortgage Rates Keep Dropping, Offering Hope for Home Buyers

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U.S. Mortgage Rates Keep Dropping, Offering Hope for Home Buyers

In a welcome trend for home buyers grappling with the challenges of the least affordable housing market since the 1980s, U.S. mortgage rates continued their downward trajectory this week. The decline, which began in early December, marks the ninth consecutive week of falling rates, bringing relief to those navigating a challenging real estate landscape.

According to data released by Freddie Mac on Thursday, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate averaged 6.61% in the week ending December 28, down from 6.67% the previous week. This shift represents a significant improvement for homebuyers compared to the 6.42% average recorded a year ago. The consistent decline in rates over the past two months can be attributed to the anticipation of Federal Reserve rate cuts expected to commence next year.

Freddie Mac’s chief economist, Sam Khater, commented on the situation, stating, “The rapid descent of mortgage rates over the last two months stabilized a bit this week, but rates continue to trend down.” Despite the stabilization, experts caution that holiday-driven fluctuations may introduce some noise into the data.

Realtor.com economist Jiayi Xu urged caution in interpreting the latest mortgage rates, emphasizing the seasonal nature of the market during this time of the year. While the current decline in rates is a positive development, it may not immediately translate into a significant sales recovery, given the persistent challenge of limited housing inventory propping up home prices.

Looking ahead to 2024, economists anticipate further declines in mortgage rates. Federal Reserve officials have recently projected a median of three rate cuts next year. These potential rate cuts are expected to exert downward pressure on mortgage rates, as the central bank’s actions play a pivotal role in influencing borrowing costs.

Mortgage rates closely track the yield on 10-year U.S. Treasuries, responding to expectations and reactions related to the Fed’s policies. Despite the ongoing decline in mortgage rates, the real estate market’s recovery is tempered by the scarcity of housing inventory, contributing to the resilience of home prices.

While the current environment hasn’t yet translated into a substantial rebound in sales, industry experts express optimism about a potential nascent recovery in the housing market if inflation continues to decelerate in the coming year.

Tomball Resident Strikes Gold with $2 Million Powerball Win

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Tomball Resident Strikes Gold with $2 Million Powerball Win

In a stroke of luck overnight, a Powerball ticket purchased in Tomball turned into a substantial $2 million windfall for its fortunate owner. Texas lottery officials confirmed that the winning ticket was sold at Rosehill Mini Mart on FM 2920, adding another success story to the region’s lottery lore.

The winning combination from last night’s drawing consisted of the numbers 10, 11, 26, 27, and 34, with the Powerball number being seven. While the grand jackpot remained elusive for players, the lack of a jackpot winner means the stakes continue to rise, reaching an impressive $810 million for the upcoming drawing.

It’s worth noting that this recent win follows another substantial victory in the previous Wednesday’s drawing, where a ticket sold in Katy secured a $2 million prize. The back-to-back multimillion-dollar wins have added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for lottery enthusiasts across the state.

As the Powerball jackpot swells to unprecedented heights, the prospect of an eight-figure payout has captured the imagination of hopeful participants. The coming drawing holds the promise of a life-changing sum for one lucky ticket holder, making it a must-watch event for lottery aficionados. With the excitement building, the lottery craze continues to grip the region, fueled by the prospect of turning a simple ticket into a multimillion-dollar jackpot.

Texas Legislature Set to Enforce New Laws Starting January 1, 2024

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Texas Legislature Set to Enforce New Laws Starting January 1, 2024

As the new year approaches, the Texas Legislature is gearing up to implement a range of bills set to take effect on January 1, 2024. These legislative changes span diverse areas and impact various aspects of life across the state. Below are some key laws that will come into force next month:

  1. HB 260: Appraisal of Open-Space Land
    • This law relates to the calculation of “net to land” in the appraisal of open-space land for ad valorem tax purposes. Chief appraisers must now consider the impact of diseases and pests on the net income of the land when making calculations.
  2. HB 456: Tax Exemption for Charitable Organizations
    • Certain charitable organizations owning specific mineral interests in place will now be exempt from ad valorem taxation under this law.
  3. HB 614: Property Owners’ Association Fines
    • This law addresses fines imposed by property owners’ associations.
  4. HB 796: Publicly Available Database for Protest Hearings
    • Chief appraisers are mandated to create and maintain a publicly available database of information regarding protest hearings under this legislation.
  5. HB 1058: Tax Credit for Housing Developments
    • Certain housing developments will now qualify for a franchise or insurance premium tax credit.
  6. HB 1228: Delivery of Information under Property Tax Code
    • This law pertains to the delivery of specific information under the Property Tax Code.
  7. HB 1285: Training and Duties of Taxpayer Liaison Officer
    • Specifies the training and duties of a taxpayer liaison officer for an appraisal district.
  8. HB 1922: Reauthorization of Municipal Building Permit Fees
    • Municipal building permit fees are now subject to periodic reauthorization under this legislation.
  9. HB 2121: Form of Rendition Statement for Ad Valorem Tax Purposes
    • Addresses the form of a rendition statement or property report used to render property for ad valorem tax purposes.
  10. HB 2323: Specialty License Plates Commemorating 100th Anniversary
    • Relates to the issuance of specialty license plates commemorating the 100th anniversary of the writing of the state song.

These are just a few among the array of laws set to be enforced come January 1, 2024. Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and understanding of the evolving legal landscape in Texas.

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.

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