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 X de Elon Musk, anteriormente Twitter, demanda a Media Matters mientras los anunciantes huyen por un informe de anuncios que aparecen junto a publicaciones neonazis  

La empresa de redes sociales X de Elon Musk, anteriormente conocida como Twitter, presentó una demanda contra el grupo de defensa liberal Media Matters for America el lunes, diciendo que fabricó un informe para mostrar las publicaciones de los anunciantes junto con publicaciones neonazis y nacionalistas blancas con el fin de “impulsar a los anunciantes”. desde la plataforma y destruir X Corp.”

Los anunciantes han estado huyendo de X por preocupaciones de que sus anuncios aparezcan junto a contenido pronazi (y discursos de odio en el sitio en general), mientras que el propietario multimillonario Musk ha inflamado las tensiones con sus propias publicaciones que respaldan una teoría de conspiración antisemita.

IBM, NBCUniversal y su empresa matriz Comcast dijeron la semana pasada que dejaron de hacer publicidad en X después de que el informe Media Matters dijera que sus anuncios aparecían junto con material que alababa a los nazis. El informe de Media Matters también señaló anuncios de Apple y Oracle que aparecieron junto a material antisemita en X, y el grupo dijo que había encontrado anuncios de Amazon, NBA México, NBCUniversal y otros junto a hashtags nacionalistas blancos.

Otras empresas importantes, incluidas Apple, Warner Bros. Discovery, Disney y Paramount Global (la empresa matriz de CBS), anunciaron que retirarían la publicidad de la plataforma. Fue un nuevo revés mientras la plataforma intenta recuperar las grandes marcas y su dinero publicitario, la principal fuente de ingresos de X.

Pero X, con sede en San Francisco, dice en su demanda presentada ante un tribunal federal en Fort Worth, Texas, que Media Matters “a sabiendas y maliciosamente” presentó anuncios junto a material de odio “como si fueran lo que los usuarios típicos de X experimentan en la plataforma”.

La denuncia de X afirma que Media Matters “manipuló algoritmos que gobiernan la experiencia del usuario en X para eludir las salvaguardas y crear imágenes de las publicaciones pagadas de los anunciantes más importantes de X junto a contenido racista e incendiario, dejando la falsa impresión de que estos emparejamientos son cualquier cosa menos lo que realmente son: fabricado, inorgánico y extraordinariamente raro.”

La presentación siguió a la publicación de Musk durante el fin de semana prometiendo: “El tribunal de fracción de segundo se abre el lunes, X Corp presentará una demanda termonuclear contra Media Matters y TODOS aquellos que se confabularon en este ataque fraudulento a nuestra empresa”.

Media Matters, con sede en Washington, D.C., respondió a la demanda el lunes por la tarde con una declaración de su presidente, Angelo Carusone, diciendo: “Esta es una demanda frívola destinada a intimidar a los críticos de X para que guarden silencio. Media Matters respalda su informe. “

Carusone dijo en un comunicado anterior que Media Matters continuará su trabajo. “Si nos demanda, ganaremos”, afirmó.

En una entrevista con Reuters el lunes, Carusone dijo que los hallazgos del grupo sugieren que las protecciones de seguridad promocionadas por X no lograban evitar que aparecieran anuncios junto a contenido dañino.

“Si buscas contenido nacionalista blanco, florecen los anuncios. El sistema que dicen que existe no funciona como tal”, afirmó.

Poco después de que X anunciara su demanda, el fiscal general de Texas, Ken Paxton, emitió un comunicado diciendo que su oficina investigaría Media Matters por “actividad potencialmente fraudulenta”, haciéndose eco de la afirmación de X de que la organización sin fines de lucro manipuló sus resultados.

Los anunciantes se han mostrado nerviosos con X desde la adquisición de Musk hace más de un año. Bajo su propiedad, el sitio redujo drásticamente su fuerza laboral, disolvió su grupo asesor de Confianza y Seguridad y eliminó su sistema de verificación de usuarios.

En julio, Musk publicó que el sitio por el que pagó 44 mil millones de dólares tenía un “flujo de caja negativo” debido a una “caída del 50% en los ingresos por publicidad más una fuerte carga de deuda”.

Musk también ha provocado indignación con sus propias publicaciones, incluida una la semana pasada en la que respondió a un usuario que acusó a los judíos de “impulsar… el odio contra los blancos” escribiendo: “Has dicho la verdad real”.

Musk ha enfrentado acusaciones de tolerar mensajes antisemitas en la plataforma desde que la compró el año pasado. Bajo su propiedad, X revocó las reglas que eliminaban el “contenido violatorio de odio” en la plataforma, dijo la Liga Antidifamación en un informe de junio. Según el análisis de la ADL, el 27% del acoso online en el primer semestre de 2023 se produjo en X, frente al 21% en 2022.

Dazzling Displays: A Guide On Where See to Houston’s Best Christmas Lights

As the festive season approaches, Houstonians are gearing up for a visual feast of twinkling lights and holiday cheer. From traditional neighborhoods to dedicated light displays, the city offers a plethora of options for those seeking the magic of Christmas illumination. Here’s a guide to the must-see Christmas lights in Houston.

1. River Oaks – The Epitome of Elegance: Known for its opulent estates, River Oaks transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays. The streets are adorned with tasteful and elaborate light displays that capture the spirit of the season. Take a leisurely drive through this upscale neighborhood to bask in the glow of exquisite decorations.

2. Prestonwood Forest – A Community Tradition: A time-honored tradition in Houston, the Prestonwood Forest subdivision in Northwest Houston is renowned for its elaborate decorations and themed street displays. Many residents participate in this community-wide effort, creating a festive atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the city.

3. Magical Winter Lights – Gulf Greyhound Park: For a more organized and immersive experience, head to the Magical Winter Lights at Gulf Greyhound Park. This annual event features larger-than-life lantern sculptures, vibrant light displays, and cultural exhibits. It’s a family-friendly outing complete with a holiday market and live entertainment.

4. Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo: The Houston Zoo transforms into a sparkling paradise during the holiday season with its Zoo Lights extravaganza. Millions of lights illuminate the zoo grounds, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Stroll through themed sections, enjoy seasonal treats, and take in the enchanting sights.

5. Sugar Land Holiday Lights at Constellation Field: Head southwest to Sugar Land for a dazzling display at Constellation Field. The Sugar Land Holiday Lights offer a festive experience with over 3 million lights, a carnival, and Santa’s workshop. It’s a perfect outing for families, complete with amusement rides and holiday treats.

6. Christmas Village at Bayou Bend: Immerse yourself in the charm of an old-fashioned Christmas at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. The Christmas Village features thousands of lights, festive decorations, and activities for the whole family. Explore the beautifully decorated gardens and historic estate for a magical holiday experience.

Whether you prefer a neighborhood drive or a structured event, Houston has something for everyone when it comes to Christmas lights. Grab your hot cocoa, load up the car, and embark on a magical journey through the twinkling streets of the city. As the lights dance in celebration, Houstonians are reminded of the joy and warmth that the holiday season brings.

University of Houston Fires Head Coach Dana Holgorsen after 5 years

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The tenure of Head Football Coach Dana Holgorsen at the University of Houston has come to an end, as confirmed by KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy, following a decision made late Saturday night. The initial report of Holgorsen’s firing came from Joseph Duarte of the Houston Chronicle.

Holgorsen took charge in 2019 after an eight-year stint at West Virginia. His leadership spanned the program’s transition from the American Athletic Conference to the Big 12 Conference, where they faced challenges in the current season as anticipated. The highlight of Holgorsen’s tenure at UH was the 12-2 finish in 2021.

Despite having time remaining on his UH contract, Holgorsen’s departure comes with a projected buyout in the ballpark of $15 million. The team concluded the current season with three consecutive losses, culminating in a defeat at the hands of Central Florida on Saturday. The Cougars finished with a 4-8 overall record and a 2-7 standing in the Big 12.

The search for a new head coach is set to commence promptly under the guidance of AD Chris Pezman. Early contenders for the position include the highly regarded UTSA Head Coach Jeff Traylor and Tulane’s Willie Fritz, with additional candidates expected to emerge in the coming days. The University of Houston is gearing up for a new chapter in its football program, seeking leadership to guide the team to future successes.

Hostage Release and Cease-Fire Bring Moments of Relief Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis

In a significant development today, Hamas released seventeen hostages, including 4-year-old American Abigail Edan, as part of a negotiated deal with Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office provided a list confirming the release, while in exchange, Israel released 39 Palestinian prisoners, all of whom were minors, according to a spokesperson from Qatar.

This follows the release yesterday of 13 Israelis and four Thai citizens, marking a total of 26 Israelis released out of the expected 50 from Gaza. Simultaneously, 39 Palestinian prisoners were freed as part of the broader hostage-prisoner swap.

The cease-fire has enabled a flow of aid trucks into Gaza, providing much-needed relief to civilians who have faced shortages of food, water, and medicine in recent weeks. Among the aid, fuel shipments have been crucial in addressing pressing needs.

Despite these positive developments, challenges persist. The Israeli military is cautioning civilians who fled to southern Gaza not to return home, emphasizing preparations for the next phase of the conflict once the cease-fire concludes.

The human toll of the conflict in Gaza is staggering, with over 1.7 million people displaced, and health officials reporting a death toll exceeding 14,500 after weeks of Israeli attacks. The Israel Defense Forces estimate that 1,200 people were killed in the October 7 Hamas attack, with over 200 individuals being held hostage in Gaza.

As the region grapples with the aftermath of the hostage release and the ongoing humanitarian crisis, NBC News correspondents Keir Simmons, Raf Sanchez, Ali Arouzi, Erin McLaughlin, and David Noriega are on the ground, reporting on the unfolding situation. The situation remains fluid, with international attention focused on efforts to maintain the fragile peace and address the urgent needs of those affected by the conflict.

Immigration Debate Intensifies: Trump’s Hard-Line Agenda Sparks Concerns as Americans Grapple with Shifting Views

Although Americans generally support immigration, there is a growing willingness to embrace stricter enforcement measures, presenting a potential challenge for hard-line proponents of anti-immigrant policies in the upcoming 2024 elections.

Both Democrats and Republicans are sounding the alarm about a perceived “crisis” at the border, fueled by record encounters reported by the Border Patrol. Adding to the concern, former President Donald Trump has vowed to build upon the tough immigration stances of his initial term. This has raised concerns among immigration advocates and even some conservative Republicans.

Trump’s rhetoric has intensified, likening immigrants to a threat, using language reminiscent of Nazi ideology. He has proposed drastic measures, including a sweeping deportation initiative inspired by the Eisenhower-era “Operation Wetback” and the creation of detention camps drawing parallels to Japanese internment camps.

His agenda encompasses ending the constitutional right to birthright citizenship, utilizing a World War II-era law to unilaterally detain and deport non-U.S. citizens, and cutting off funding for transportation and shelter for those without legal status, according to The Associated Press.

This unfolds against a backdrop of diminishing support for immigration among Americans. A June Gallup poll revealed that 68% of Americans still believe immigration is beneficial for the country, marking the lowest percentage since 2014. This figure is a decline from 77% in 2020. Another NBC News poll found that three out of four registered voters advocate increased spending on border security to address immigration concerns.

In cities traditionally welcoming to immigrants, leaders express resource strain due to the influx of newcomers, causing tension between long-time undocumented workers and newly arrived asylum-seekers. This has led to divisions and concerns about the broader implications of certain policies.

Immigration advocacy groups and progressives caution against a rushed response to the perceived “border crisis,” emphasizing the potential risks to citizens. Tom Jawetz, senior fellow for immigration policy at the Center for American Progress, highlights the broader impact of Trump’s immigration plan, stating, “Citizens are at risk, too.”

With immigration poised to be a pivotal issue in the 2024 elections, hard-liners are testing the waters to exploit the growing skepticism towards immigration. Progressives worry that Americans may not fully grasp the wider consequences of these policies.

Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America’s Voice, asserts that Trump’s vision extends beyond immigration policy, expressing concern that he aims to redefine the nation’s identity. She emphasizes the importance of not becoming desensitized to his rhetoric and actions.

Todd Schulte, president and executive director of FWD.us, an immigration advocacy group, warns against the potential violation of civil liberties and basic rights if policies targeting millions based on immigration status are implemented. He references Arizona’s SB 1070 law as a precedent, which faced legal challenges for unfairly targeting Latino residents before certain provisions were struck down.

Looking ahead, some states may explore pushing the boundaries of immigration enforcement, testing the willingness of the conservative Supreme Court to revisit laws such as Arizona’s SB 1070, which traditionally fall under federal jurisdiction.

Holiday Spending Projected to Hit Record Levels, Online Shopping Surges, and Consumers Embrace Resilience Amid Economic Variables

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The National Retail Federation predicts that holiday spending in November and December will set new records, projecting a growth of 3-4% over 2022 to a total between $957.3 billion and $966.6 billion. NRF President Matthew Shay attributes this to stable household finances supporting consumer spending. Although the growth rate is slower than in recent pandemic years, it aligns with the average annual increase from 2010 to 2019.

Online shopping remains a significant trend, with non-store sales expected to rise 7-9% to reach $273.7 billion to $278.8 billion. NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz notes consumer resilience despite inflation, high gas prices, and credit conditions. Job and wage growth will influence spending, with an emphasis on seeking deals and discounts.

Kleinhenz emphasizes the shift from goods to services in spending trends, noting strong growth in service spending. NRF anticipates retailers hiring between 345,000 and 450,000 seasonal workers to meet holiday demand. Weather impacts, particularly from El Niño, could introduce unpredictability to holiday retail spending.

NRF’s holiday forecast relies on economic modeling, excluding auto dealers, gas stations, and restaurants. The holiday season, defined as November 1 through December 31, is supported by a Prosper Insights & Analytics survey, indicating 43% of holiday shoppers plan to start buying before November, with an average spending expectation of $875 on core holiday items.

Moist Conditions Expected as Cold Front Sweeps Through Houston

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While Houston currently enjoys brisk Fall weather, clammier conditions are on the horizon as a cold front approaches from the north. Anticipate showers on Saturday night and Sunday morning, with temperatures dropping into the low 40s early Sunday. Texans fans should prepare for a damp tailgate before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, although showers are likely to clear by the afternoon.

This front is a spinoff of a larger winter storm named “Cait” by The Weather Channel. Expected to bring heavy snowfall to the western United States and Midwest, its influence will be felt in southeast Texas, signaling cooler temperatures next week. Downtown Houston may experience lows in the low 40s on Monday and Tuesday, with the potential for a light freeze in areas north of the city on Tuesday morning, as highlighted by Space City Weather’s Matt Lanza.

While not the traditional fall weather, the upcoming conditions provide a welcome change from the relentless summer heat and power conservation appeals that defined the year.

Texas Football Dominates Texas Tech 57-7, Secures Spot in Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship Game

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The No. 7 Texas Football team secured a dominant 57-7 victory over Texas Tech in the regular season finale at Darrell K Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium. This decisive win earned the Longhorns a coveted spot in the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship Game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2, at 11 a.m.

Texas showcased an impressive performance, amassing 528 total yards of offense (226 pass, 302 rush) while limiting Texas Tech to a mere 198 total yards. Running back Jaydon Blue had a standout day, rushing for 121 yards on 10 carries, including a remarkable 69-yard touchdown rush, marking his first 100-yard game.

Kicker Bert Auburn had a record-setting game, tying the Texas single-game record with five made field goals and accumulating 21 points, establishing a new Texas single-game record.

Key Statistics Highlights:

  • Keilan Robinson secured his first touchdown of the season with a 10-yard rush in the first quarter, giving Texas an early 7-0 lead.
  • Jaydon Blue’s explosive 69-yard touchdown rush in the second quarter extended the Longhorns’ lead to 17-7.
  • Bert Auburn’s flawless performance included four first-half field goals and a perfect 5-for-5 record in the win, maintaining his streak of 19 consecutive made field goals.
  • Keilan Robinson electrified the second half with a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, expanding Texas’ lead to 33-7.
  • Xavier Worthy added his fifth touchdown of the season with a 19-yard reception from quarterback Quinn Ewers, pushing the Longhorns further ahead at 43-7.
  • Jett Bush recorded his first interception of the season, returning it for a touchdown and extending Texas’ lead to 50-7.
  • Quintrevion Wisner secured his first career touchdown with a 10-yard rush in the fourth quarter, sealing a commanding 57-7 lead.

Looking ahead, Texas has clinched a spot in the 2023 Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship Game, scheduled for Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. Central at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. The opponent will be determined on Nov. 25. Longhorn Foundation members have been notified about ticket allotments, and fans can purchase guaranteed tickets through SeatGeek, with Texas designated as the No. 1 seed and the home team for the championship.

Black Friday Draws Diminished Crowds as Shoppers Prioritize Discounts Amid Economic Concerns

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This year’s Black Friday events witnessed subdued attendance, reflecting a consumer focus on securing discounts and deals following restrained spending in anticipation of what is projected to be the least robust holiday season in five years.

The National Retail Federation anticipates a modest 3% to 4% increase in overall sales for November and December, marking the slowest growth in five years compared to the 5.4% surge last year and the exceptional 12.7% spike in 2021 following the pandemic’s depths.

Observations at a Walmart in New Milford, Conn., revealed a half-full parking lot at 6 a.m. on Friday, exemplifying the quieter atmosphere reported by shoppers like Theresa Forsberg, who noted a significant difference from previous Black Fridays.

Consumer spending, affected by inflation, saw a 7% decrease between mid-October and mid-November compared to the previous year, with a corresponding 6% reduction in items purchased, according to Circana research. Major retailers such as Target and Macy’s have reported recent sales declines.

Retailers brace for modest growth amid consumer challenges with high prices across various sectors. Lower-income consumers, in particular, face difficulties finding attractive deals as the savings from previous stimulus checks diminish.

Online spending hit a record $5.6 billion on Thanksgiving Day, marking a 5.5% increase from last year. The trend reflects a shift to online shopping, with significant discounts observed in categories like toys (28%) and electronics (27%).

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday are expected to see robust spending, retailers like BestBuy and Walmart are adjusting strategies to cater to deal-focused customers. BestBuy anticipates a 3% to 7% decline in comparable store sales in the crucial fourth quarter, emphasizing a focus on budget-conscious consumers.

Luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus are also affected, with an 8% decline in sales reported for the most recent quarter. Consumer caution and increased promotion in the luxury sector contribute to the challenges faced by high-end retailers.

Despite economic concerns, experts anticipate strong spending during the promotional Black Friday and Cyber Monday period, with consumers planning to spend an average of $567, representing a 13% increase from the previous year, according to a Deloitte survey. However, many consumers aim to complete their holiday shopping early to adhere to spending limits.

Navigating the Post-Thanksgiving Travel Rush: A Comprehensive Guide to Smooth Journeys

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SANTA ANA, CA – November 16: Passengers go through TSA security at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, CA on Thursday, November 16, 2023. The Automobile Club of Southern California estimates a 3% increase of people traveling compared to last holiday season. (Photo by Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images)


As the Thanksgiving festivities wind down, many Americans are gearing up for the annual post-Thanksgiving travel rush. With millions expected to hit the roads, skies, and rails, preparation becomes paramount for a smooth journey back home. Here’s a guide on how to navigate the post-Thanksgiving travel rush:

  1. Plan Ahead: Check the expected peak travel times and plan your journey accordingly. Adjust your departure time to avoid the rush, if possible.
  2. Book Flights Strategically: If flying, consider booking a flight on the less popular travel days, like the actual day of Thanksgiving or the following Monday. Prices may be lower, and airports less congested.
  3. Road Trip Readiness: If you’re hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, and fluids. Be prepared for winter weather if you’re traveling through colder regions.
  4. Pack Light and Smart: If you can, avoid checking bags to save time and potential fees. Pack essentials and consider shipping gifts in advance to your destination.
  5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and any travel advisories. Stay informed about potential delays or disruptions and have a backup plan in case of unexpected changes.
  6. Use Technology to Your Advantage: Download travel apps to stay updated on flight statuses, road conditions, and alternative routes. These apps can provide real-time information to help you navigate any challenges.
  7. Hydrate and Snack Smartly: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during air travel. Pack some snacks to avoid relying solely on airport or gas station food.
  8. Consider Off-Peak Transportation: If possible, opt for off-peak travel times. Trains and buses might be less crowded during non-peak hours, offering a more relaxed journey.
  9. Be Patient and Kind: Travel during this period can be stressful for everyone. Exercise patience, and remember that everyone is working to reach their destination. Treat fellow travelers and staff with kindness.

By incorporating these tips into your travel plans, you can increase the likelihood of a smoother and more enjoyable post-Thanksgiving journey, making the trip back home a memorable part of the holiday season.