La tormenta, que arrojó lluvia y nieve en el oeste este fin de semana, ahora avanza hacia el este, trayendo vientos dañinos y posibles granizo y tornados hacia el sur.
Jackson, Misisipi; Rolling Fork, Misisipi; y Alexandria, Luisiana, son las que tienen más probabilidades de verse afectadas por el clima severo el lunes por la tarde y por la noche. Nueva Orleans y Mobile, Alabama, estarán en el centro de la atención durante la noche y el martes por la mañana.
El martes, la tormenta ganará velocidad a medida que avanza hacia el noreste. Quienes conduzcan por el corredor de la Interestatal 95 para llegar a sus destinos del Día de Acción de Gracias deben extremar las precauciones.
La lluvia llegará al área de Washington, D.C., Maryland y Virginia en la hora pico de la mañana y durará todo el día.
Para el martes por la noche, se esperan lluvias más intensas desde las Carolinas hasta la ciudad de Nueva York. Es posible que se produzcan inundaciones repentinas durante la noche del martes al miércoles.
El miércoles por la mañana, fuertes lluvias azotarán Boston.
La nieve comenzará en el norte de Nueva Inglaterra el martes por la tarde y continuará hasta el miércoles por la noche. Se pronostican de seis a 12 pulgadas de nieve para partes de Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire y Maine.
La Corte Suprema rechazó el lunes la apelación del ex oficial de policía de Minneapolis Derek Chauvin de su condena por asesinato en segundo grado por el asesinato de George Floyd.
Los jueces no hicieron comentarios sobre dejar vigentes los fallos de los tribunales estatales que afirman la condena de Chauvin y la sentencia de 22 años y medio.
Los abogados de Chauvin argumentaron que a su cliente se le negó un juicio justo en 2021 debido a la publicidad previa al juicio y a la preocupación por la violencia en caso de absolución.
Floyd, que era negro, murió el 25 de mayo de 2020, después de que Chauvin, que es blanco, le presionara el cuello con una rodilla durante nueve minutos y medio en la calle, frente a una tienda de conveniencia donde Floyd intentó pasar un billete falso de 20 dólares. Un video de un transeúnte capturó los gritos desvanecidos de Floyd de “No puedo respirar”. La muerte de Floyd desató protestas en todo el mundo, algunas de las cuales se volvieron violentas, y obligó a un ajuste de cuentas a nivel nacional con la brutalidad policial y el racismo que aún persisten.
Chauvin está apelando por separado su condena por cargos federales de derechos civiles.
After maintaining her innocence for nearly five years, pop star Shakira reached a last-minute agreement to avoid the risk of imprisonment on the opening day of her tax fraud trial in Barcelona on Monday.
Shakira informed the presiding magistrate, José Manuel del Amo, that she accepted the deal struck with prosecutors, acknowledging six counts of failing to pay the Spanish government 14.5 million euros (approximately $15.8 million) in taxes between 2012 and 2014.
As per the agreement, Shakira will receive a suspended three-year sentence and a fine of 7 million euros ($7.6 million). The trial, initially expected to include over 100 witnesses over the following weeks, was abruptly halted after just eight minutes.
In July, prosecutors had announced their intention to seek an eight-year and two-month prison sentence along with a 24 million euro ($26 million) fine for the globally acclaimed singer, known for her hits in Spanish and English across various musical genres.
In a statement released by her public relations firm, Shakira expressed her desire to fight on but emphasized prioritizing her family, career, and peace of mind.
“I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart, who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight,” she said. “I need to move past the stress and emotional toll of the last several years and focus on the things I love, my kids, and all the opportunities to come in my career.”
The case centered on Shakira’s residence during that period when prosecutors argued that she spent over half of it in Spain and should have paid taxes on her global income in the country, despite her official residence still being in the Bahamas, where tax rates are significantly lower.
Before entering the courthouse, Shakira waved and blew a kiss to a small crowd of onlookers. While seated in front of the panel of judges, she was flanked by prosecution and defense teams.
“This has been a difficult decision that took time to reach,” said defense lawyer Miriam Company. “Her legal team had prepared the trial and were convinced we could demonstrate her innocence, but the circumstances changed, and (Shakira) opted to accept the deal.”
Shakira had rejected a deal offered by prosecutors in July 2022, asserting her belief in her innocence. She was named in the “Paradise Papers” leaks, revealing offshore tax arrangements of various high-profile individuals.
Shakira’s defense team previously stated that she had paid all owed taxes and an additional 3 million euros (about $3.2 million) in interest. The defense argued that she had not spent more than 60 days a year in Spain during the period, a requirement for fiscal residency.
Spanish prosecutors disagreed, and investigating judge Marco Juberías, in 2021, found “sufficient evidence of criminality,” leading to the trial. Shakira maintained her innocence during questioning by Juberías in 2019.
Flu season is in progress, with at least seven states experiencing elevated rates of flu infections, and cases on the rise nationwide, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC highlighted an increase in doctors’ visits for respiratory issues, positive flu lab tests, and influenza hospitalizations this week. The South Central, Southeast, and West Coast regions are currently witnessing the most significant spikes in flu activity.
Louisiana reported very high flu activity last week, with Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, New Mexico, and South Carolina also indicating high activity. The District of Columbia and Puerto Rico declared an influenza epidemic earlier this month, with both areas experiencing high activity.
Moderate but increasing flu activity was observed in New York City, Arkansas, California, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas, according to the CDC.
So far, the CDC estimates that the flu has caused a minimum of 780,000 illnesses this season, leading to 8,000 hospitalizations and 490 deaths.
To combat the spread of the flu, the CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 and above receive a flu shot. However, vaccination rates this year are lower compared to the previous year, with approximately 35% of U.S. adults and 33% of children having received their flu shots.
HOUSTON – In an effort to keep our neighborhoods safe, Crime Stoppers of Houston and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are seeking the public’s help locating the following individuals that have active Felony and/or Misdemeanor Warrants.
Crime Stoppers may pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the location and arrest of the suspects featured. Information may be reported by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app. All tipsters remain anonymous. Only tips and calls DIRECTLY TO Crime Stoppers are anonymous and eligible for a cash reward.
The language in this press release is intentional and could have legal implications. Please do not change the copy of the paragraph above.
All warrants are active at the time this press release was created and is subject to change. Crime Stoppers of Houston and this news organization are not making any legal claims that this is the most current legal status.
The following individuals all have active warrants as of November 16, 2023 at 2:00 pm.
DERRISHA LORRAINE BUTLERB/F 02-14-97 5’05”/190 Lbs. Blk/Bro Warrant #: 1840208 THEFT <$2,500 2/MORE PREV CONV Last known location: Houston Texas
CHANUNCEY DWAYNE FRANKB/M 07-30-76 5’09”/160 Lbs. Blk/Bro Warrant #: 1655952 PROB VIOL MONEY LAUNDERING >=$150K<$300K Last known location: Houston Texas
ALVIN RAY GOLSTONB/M 08-20-75 5’10”/250 Lbs. Blk/Bro Warrant #: 1839315 UNAUTH USE OF VEHICLE Last known location: Houston Texas
KARINA LOPEZ LEMAIREW/F 10-12-89 5’02”/150 Lbs. Bro/Bro Warrant #: 1681274 THEFT AGGREGATE =>$150K<$300K Last known location: Houston Texas
JUAN ANTONIO MONTOYAW/M 02-11-60 5’06”/160 Lbs. Blk/Bro Warrant # 1768435 INDECENCY W/CHILD SEXUAL CONTA Last known location: Houston Texas
LAURA MICHELLE PARKERW/F 06/15/85 5’07”/125 Lbs. Bln/Brn Warrant #: 1839651 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF >=$2,500<30K Last known location: San Leon Texas
JASON ALLEN ROFFW/M 06-03-83 5’08”/165 Bro/Bro Warrant #: 1833125 THFT MAT ALUM/BRNZ/COPPR/BRASS Last known location: Richmond Texas
Taylor Swift has chosen to postpone a concert in Rio de Janeiro after a 23-year-old fan passed away during her Friday night performance. The singer shared the news on her Instagram, explaining that extreme temperatures in Rio prompted the decision, prioritizing the safety and well-being of fans, performers, and crew.
The cause of the fan’s death, Ana Clara Benevides Machado, who sought medical attention during the show, has not been disclosed. The public prosecutor’s office in Rio has initiated a criminal investigation, and Benevides’ body is undergoing examination.
Benevides’ passing has deeply affected many in Brazil, as she had embarked on her first flight to Rio from the country’s center-west region to attend the concert. She documented her journey through a WhatsApp group, sharing photos and videos with her family.
Fans and officials expressed outrage, speculating that the death could be linked to extreme heat. Concertgoers complained about not being allowed to bring water into the stadium, despite the oppressive weather. Federal authorities later announced the availability of free water at concerts and large events.
Swift, in a previous statement, expressed a “shattered heart” and described the young woman as “incredibly beautiful and far too young.” The concert’s organizer, Time4Fun, stated that paramedics attended to Benevides, taking her to a first-aid center and subsequently to a hospital, where she passed away.
Witnesses reported challenging conditions inside the stadium, with apparent temperatures reaching record highs. Swift paused her performance to request water for fans, and concertgoers mentioned seeing distressed individuals and hearing calls for water.
Benevides, in videos before the concert, shared her excitement about attending and waiting in line for hours in the sun, echoing the experiences of thousands of fans.
The tragic incident has led to calls for increased safety measures at future events, including the allowance of personal water bottles and improved medical resources. Despite the postponement, Swift expressed her grief on Instagram and refrained from addressing the incident from the stage.
An Array of Houston Restaurants Offering Distinctive Thanksgiving Menus
Houston’s dining scene is embracing variety this Thanksgiving, with an increasing number of restaurants serving up unique takes on the traditional holiday feast. Some establishments are deviating from the norm, offering options like lobster and turkey pot pie, miso-marinated cod, and cacio e pepe fritters.
For those seeking a more traditional Thanksgiving experience, several local eateries are sticking to the classics. Turkey, prepared in various styles, is accompanied by timeless sides and seasonal offerings such as butternut squash soup and candied yams.
Here’s a roundup of some Houston favorites open for Thanksgiving:
Amore Italian Restaurant: Enjoy an elevated Thanksgiving brunch with a complimentary glass of prosecco and a small gift for each guest. The menu features traditional roasted turkey, halibut, and lamb chops, among other options.
Roma: Indulge in an Italian-influenced three-course spread, including hand-carved turkey breast, green-bean casserole, and a choice of pecan or pumpkin pie.
Nobu: The popular Galleria restaurant offers its usual menu, featuring miso-marinated cod, sashimi, and rock shrimp, providing a non-traditional yet delightful Thanksgiving dining experience.
Turner’s: Experience a show-stopping Thanksgiving meal with live piano music, complimentary Kir Royale or champagne, a petite seafood tower, and a variety of courses, including roasted venison loin and brine-and-roasted turkey breast.
Bludorn: This Montrose spot presents a special Thanksgiving menu with unique offerings like smoked maitake mushrooms and a lobster and turkey pot pie.
Amrina: In The Woodlands, savor a five-course Thanksgiving spread at this contemporary Indian-influenced establishment, with a prix-fixe meal priced at $85 per person.
Cleburne Cafeteria: A Houston institution since 1941, Cleburne Cafeteria offers its usual offerings on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., allowing diners to skip waiting between courses.
Rainbow Lodge: Indulge in a picturesque and flavorful Thanksgiving banquet at Rainbow Lodge, known for its wild game offerings, offering a three-course meal at $75 per person.
B&B Butchers & Restaurant: Opt for a three-course prix-fixe holiday menu at this popular steakhouse, priced at $90 per adult and $35 per child.
Jonathan’s the Rub: The Memorial Green location of this New American staple will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering festive favorites like butternut squash bisque and herb-roasted turkey breast.
Eunice: Enjoy Creole-Cajun flavors at Eunice, where the full menu is available on Thanksgiving, along with special holiday offerings like Cajun stuffed turkey and pumpkin bisque.
Steak 48: In addition to its regular menu, Steak 48 is serving a traditional Thanksgiving Day meal, the “Chef’s Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner,” priced at $74.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille: Offering a two-course meal at $49, Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille provides a more budget-friendly option for Thanksgiving, including sliced turkey and butternut squash soup.
These diverse offerings cater to various tastes, making Thanksgiving dining in Houston a truly eclectic experience.
Max Verstappen initially disapproved of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, criticizing the excess and prioritization of opulence over racing upon his arrival in Sin City. However, following his 18th win of the season, the three-time reigning Formula One world champion changed his perspective, expressing enjoyment of the race.
As he crossed under the checkered flag waved by Justin Bieber, Verstappen, who had previously slammed the spectacle, sang, “Viva Las Vegas! Viva Las Vegas!” Despite his earlier reservations, he raced in an Elvis-inspired firesuit and clinched victory on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
Verstappen’s race strategy involved passing Charles Leclerc at the start and overcoming a penalty to make another successful pass with 13 laps remaining, showcasing his season-long dominance. Despite plans to head straight to the nightclub, Verstappen, Leclerc, and Sergio Perez were chauffeured in a limousine to a stage near the Bellagio, where they were surprised with the casino’s renowned fountain show.
The Bellagio fountains, which had been off all week, were restarted as part of the victory celebration. Despite the unexpected treat, the participants appeared disinterested as they stood chatting. Following the trophy presentation, they enjoyed a fireworks display reminiscent of New Year’s Eve over the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
As per a recent study conducted by truckinginfo.net researchers, Harris County holds the third position in the nation for driving fatalities during Thanksgiving holidays, with 127 total traffic deaths recorded between 2001 and 2021. Leading the country is Los Angeles County in California with 276 driving fatalities during the same period, followed by Maricopa County in Arizona with 163.
Harris County isn’t the sole Texas county listed among the top 20 most perilous for drivers during Thanksgiving. According to truckinginfo.net, Dallas County secures the eighth spot, reporting 89 driving fatalities over the Thanksgiving holidays from 2001 to 2021. Tarrant County, situated in North Texas and neighboring Dallas County, holds the fourteenth position nationally, documenting 55 driving fatalities during the holiday period. The study reveals that Texas records nearly 2.5 driving fatalities per one million people throughout the Thanksgiving holiday.
The researchers also identified two particularly hazardous roadways in Harris County during Thanksgiving: I-45, with nine driving fatalities from 2001 to 2021, and I-610, recording eight deaths over the same period. These alarming statistics coincide with the commencement of the next phase of a controversial $9 billion I-45 rebuild set for 2024.
Truckinginfo.net researchers based their analysis on fatal accident data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and population data from the U.S. Census Bureau. The Thanksgiving holiday period was defined as the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through the Sunday after.
On Saturday, residents in the Houston area participated in the fifth gun buyback event organized by Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones in collaboration with Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzales and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. The drive-thru event, held at METRO’s Westchase Park and Ride on Harwin Drive, saw 559 guns turned in by participants before the gates opened at 8 a.m. In exchange, 1,557 gift cards, totaling almost $78,000, were distributed to those who voluntarily surrendered unwanted firearms for proper disposal.
Funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), the gift cards were part of efforts to enhance community safety. The surrendered firearms included 155 Semi-Automatic Handguns, 124 Semi-Automatic Rifles, 82 Revolvers, 77 Shotguns, 59 Hunting Rifles, 58 Non-functioning firearms, and 4 Single-shot guns.
Commissioner Lesley Briones emphasized the importance of such initiatives in preventing crime, particularly youth suicides, school shootings, and domestic violence incidents. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in conjunction with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, will process each turned-in gun to determine its involvement in crimes.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner highlighted the collaborative efforts, including gun buyback programs, as essential tools in addressing gun violence. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez expressed optimism about positive results and emphasized the importance of proactive measures.
Houston City Councilmember Abbie Kamin stressed the significance of disposing of firearms through law enforcement to prevent them from reaching the streets or unregulated pawn shops. The event also saw the distribution of 400 gun safes and 1000 gun locks to participants, further promoting safe storage practices.
Despite ongoing efforts, gun violence remains a significant concern, surpassing car crashes in fatalities among children and young adults. The Harris County Commissioners Court had previously approved nearly $1.1 million in ARPA funding for up to eight gun buyback events.
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, who supported the ARPA, highlighted the multifaceted approach required to address gun violence, expressing commitment to legislative efforts. The event marked the collection and disposal of over 4,000 guns in five buyback events, reflecting a collaborative approach involving various entities, including METRO.
METRO’s board of directors chairman, Sanjay Ramabhadran, emphasized the importance of community partnerships in addressing safety concerns. Beyond gun buybacks, Harris County has implemented additional public safety initiatives, such as the Community Violence Interruption Program (CVIP) and investments in programs like the Holistic Assistance Response Teams (HART) Program.
Commissioner Briones concluded by underlining the event’s role as part of a holistic approach to public safety and the commitment to creating a safer Harris County. The success of the event was attributed to the support from various organizations, including Harris County Precinct 4, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, City of Houston, METRO, Houston Fire Department, Houston Police Department, Asian American Peace Officers Association, and Spring Branch Management District.
