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Ricky Martin Returns to Acting in Star-Studded Series “Palm Royale”

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Ricky Martin Returns to Acting in Star-Studded Series “Palm Royale”

Renowned as the “king of Latin pop,” Ricky Martin is making a triumphant return to the world of acting, trading melodies for the spotlight in the star-studded miniseries “Palm Royale,” set to debut on Apple TV+ this Wednesday.

At 52 years old, Martin is set to clash with Oscar nominee Kristen Wiig in the comedy-drama, portraying Robert Diaz, a bartender at the prestigious Palm Beach resort. The series, set in 1969, follows Wiig’s character, Maxine Simmons, as she navigates the exclusive social circles of Palm Beach in her quest to gain entry to the high society resort club where Diaz works.

In a recent interview with NBC News, Martin revealed the dynamic between his character and Wiig’s, highlighting their initial animosity rooted in their striking similarities. Exploring themes of social segregation, the miniseries serves as a poignant reflection of societal divisions, both past and present.

“Palm Royale” juxtaposes the opulence of Palm Beach’s elite against the backdrop of burgeoning social movements advocating for change. Martin hopes the series will prompt viewers to confront the masks they wear and embrace authenticity in pursuit of true happiness.

Off-screen, Martin’s storied career spans music and acting. From his early days in the Puerto Rican boy band Menudo to global pop stardom, Martin has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Now, with “Palm Royale,” he seeks to broaden his acting horizons, building on past successes in theater and music.

Reflecting on his journey, Martin expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have shaped his career, from his teenage foray into television to his acclaimed Broadway performances. With “Palm Royale,” Martin endeavors to captivate audiences with impactful storytelling that transcends musical boundaries.

“As I embark on this new chapter in my career, I’m eager to delve deeper into the realm of acting, exploring complex emotions and narratives,” Martin shared. “Through ‘Palm Royale,’ I aim to provoke thought and inspire viewers to embrace their true selves.”

With his magnetic presence and boundless talent, Ricky Martin’s return to acting promises to be a captivating journey, inviting audiences to join him on an emotional exploration of identity and belonging in the glamorous world of “Palm Royale.”

NASA Prepares for Potential Collision in 2182 as Massive Asteroid Bennu Alters Shape

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NASA Prepares for Potential Collision in 2182 as Massive Asteroid Bennu Alters Shape

NASA has issued a concerning warning: an asteroid larger than the Empire State Building is hurtling towards Earth on a direct trajectory. Known as Bennu, this colossal space rock, estimated to be 4.5 billion years old, is anticipated to perform a close flyby in the year 2182. Despite NASA’s assertion that the likelihood of a collision is only 0.05 percent, the agency is actively working on contingency plans for this potentially catastrophic scenario.

In a groundbreaking maneuver in October 2022, NASA conducted its inaugural Double Asteroid Deflection Test (DART), successfully diverting the trajectory of the asteroid Dimorphos by deliberately impacting it with a spacecraft. This week, scientists revealed astonishing findings: the shape of Bennu has undergone a remarkable transformation. Shantanu Naidu of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory described the alteration, noting that Bennu has shifted from a relatively symmetrical object to a “triaxial ellipsoid,” resembling an elongated watermelon.

This isn’t NASA’s first encounter with Bennu. Since its discovery in 1999, Bennu has made at least six close approaches to Earth. Notably, in September 2023, the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft returned to Earth after a seven-year odyssey spanning nearly 3.9 billion miles. Its mission? To collect samples from Bennu’s surface, offering insights into asteroid deflection strategies and shedding light on solar system formation.

An alarming observation was made in 2019 when Bennu was seen ejecting particles from its surface. Further analysis by scientists at the University of Arizona revealed intriguing compositions on Bennu, including magnesium phosphate and glycine—components crucial for life on Earth. Additionally, water-bearing minerals and phyllosilicates suggest Bennu may have originated from an ocean-covered world conducive to life.

Samples collected from Bennu are now on public display in Texas, Arizona, and Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft has embarked on a new mission to investigate the asteroid Apophis, rechristened OSIRIS-APEX.

As NASA continues its meticulous study of Bennu and its implications for Earth, uncertainties loom. Tim McCoy of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History emphasizes that much remains unknown, underscoring the urgency of ongoing research efforts.

Texas Braces for Rare Total Solar Eclipse: TxDOT Prepares for Traffic Surge

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Texas Braces for Rare Total Solar Eclipse: TxDOT Prepares for Traffic Surge

As anticipation mounts for next month’s rare total solar eclipse, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) gears up for an unprecedented influx of visitors, preparing to manage increased traffic across the state.

For Martin Lazo, lead of TxDOT’s Highway Emergency Response Operator team, the memory of the 2023 annular eclipse remains vivid. The eerie darkness that enveloped the sky during the midday hours left an indelible impression. Now, as Texas braces for its first total solar eclipse since 1878, Lazo and his team are poised to handle the anticipated surge in traffic.

“We’re accustomed to operating in low-light conditions,” remarks Lettie Casares, senior operator of the HERO team, emphasizing their readiness for the upcoming celestial event.

With preparations spanning two years, TxDOT aims to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhanced safety measures during the eclipse. Spanning 480 miles across Texas, the “path of totality” is expected to witness heavy traffic before, during, and after the event.

Matthew Heinze, TxDOT’s emergency management coordinator, underscores the significance of the eclipse, anticipating a million visitors traversing Texas to witness the rare phenomenon.

Collaborating with multiple state agencies, TxDOT orchestrates a comprehensive response plan, deploying crews equipped with traffic control tools and messaging signage. Special attention is given to highway safety, with reminders urging motorists to refrain from stopping on highways to view the eclipse.

To facilitate traffic management, TxDOT halts certain road construction and maintenance activities along major corridors during the eclipse period, ensuring smoother travel experiences for commuters.

Amidst preparations, TxDOT urges public cooperation and proactive planning. Travelers are advised to anticipate heavier traffic and plan their routes accordingly. DriveTexas.org offers real-time traffic updates to aid travelers in navigating congestion.

Emphasizing safety, TxDOT encourages viewers to find designated parking spots before the eclipse and refrain from impeding traffic flow. A courteous and patient attitude on the road is emphasized, alongside environmental stewardship to preserve Texas’ natural beauty.

Aware of potential challenges, Lazo and Casares advise eclipse viewers to arrive early at their designated spots to avoid congestion. Patience and cooperation are sought from motorists to facilitate emergency response efforts.

The eclipse’s trajectory will enter Texas at the Mexico-U.S. border near Eagle Pass, progressing across the state and exiting near Texarkana. Totality durations vary by location, with major cities such as Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and Fort Worth in the eclipse’s path.

Here are the times of totality for select cities:

  • Eagle Pass: 1:27 p.m.
  • Uvalde: 1:29 p.m.
  • San Antonio: 1:33 p.m.
  • Austin: 1:36 p.m.
  • Waco: 1:38 p.m.
  • Dallas and Fort Worth: 1:40 p.m.
  • Tyler: 1:43 p.m.
  • Texarkana: 1:46 p.m.

Digital kiosks at TxDOT Travel Information Centers will disseminate eclipse information, while highway signs will convey safety messages to motorists.

For further details and travel resources, including driving tips and agency collaborations, visit www.txdot.gov/discover/texas-eclipse-2024.html as Texas prepares for this extraordinary celestial event.

Houston Astros to Introduce Facial Recognition Entry System for Fans

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Houston Astros to Introduce Facial Recognition Entry System for Fans

As the baseball season draws near, the Houston Astros are set to pioneer Major League Baseball’s Go-Ahead Entry system, offering fans a hands-free and efficient means of entry into Minute Maid Park using facial recognition technology.

Following a successful pilot phase at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia last year, the Go-Ahead Entry system will be fully operational at all entry gates of Minute Maid Park. Fans will witness its debut during the Astros’ upcoming exhibition game against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys scheduled for Monday at 7:10 p.m.

While traditional ticketing options remain available, the convenience and speed of the Go-Ahead Entry system may sway fans’ preferences. However, privacy concerns linger among some, given the use of artificial intelligence to scan fans’ selfie photos for entry. Assuaging these concerns, MLB senior vice president Karri Zaremba assures that the system does not retain fans’ images but rather stores a token on their ballpark app account.

To ensure smooth implementation, only fans aged 18 or older can register with the system, while those under 18 must have their tickets loaded onto the app by someone of legal age. This feature facilitates family entry, allowing parents to manage tickets for their children within the app.

Astros senior vice president of business operations, Marcel Braithwaite, anticipates widespread adoption of the technology across ballparks, citing its convenience for families and fans alike. Unlike previous facial recognition systems, the Go-Ahead Entry offers a seamless, free-flowing entry process without the need for fans to pause for scanning.

To guide fans unfamiliar with the system, Go-Ahead Entry ambassadors will be stationed at each gate entrance. For those eager to utilize the technology, here’s a simple guide:

Step 1: Download the MLB Ballpark app and enroll in the Go-Ahead Entry system, which will prompt you to take a selfie. Step 2: Accept your tickets via email linked to your MLB Ballpark app account. Step 3: Ensure all tickets are downloaded onto the app and proceed through the designated “Go-Ahead Entry” lane for seamless entry into Minute Maid Park.

With its debut, the Go-Ahead Entry system marks a significant stride towards enhancing fan experience and streamlining entry processes at MLB ballparks.

Texas Showdown: Texas A&M Faces Off Against Houston in March Madness Clash

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Texas Showdown: Texas A&M Faces Off Against Houston in March Madness Clash

In what promises to be a captivating showdown of Texan talent, two formidable basketball teams from the Lone Star State are set to collide this Sunday, igniting anticipation for an intense match in the ongoing March Madness tournament. Texas A&M’s commanding victory over Nebraska with a score of 98-83 in Friday’s Round of 64 clash at the FedEx Forum in Memphis sets the stage for a thrilling encounter, as Houston, the top seed in the South Region, delivered a resounding 40-point blowout against Longwood in their debut game at the Big Dance the same evening.

Beyond the inherent rivalry fueled by their shared state affiliation, the impending matchup brims with compelling storylines, drawing attention from basketball enthusiasts across the nation.

Recent Encounters: Although encounters between Houston and Texas A&M are infrequent, their earlier face-off this season left an indelible mark. In a neutral venue contest at the Toyota Center, Houston narrowly clinched a 70-66 victory over Texas A&M, despite facing a formidable challenge as the Aggies nearly erased a daunting 21-point deficit in the second half.

Wade Taylor IV vs. Houston’s Defense: The emergence of Texas A&M’s guard, Wade Taylor IV, as a formidable scoring force has caught the attention of basketball aficionados. Taylor’s exceptional performance, amassing 34 points and sinking six three-pointers in the previous encounter against Houston, underscores his pivotal role in the Aggies’ offensive strategy. With an impressive postseason record averaging 26.8 points per game and displaying remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, Taylor poses a formidable challenge for Houston’s defense, renowned for its prowess as per KenPom’s metrics.

Star Power: Adding a layer of intrigue to the matchup is the presence of former Texas A&M football star Johnny Manziel, lending his support to his alma mater in Memphis. Manziel’s spirited presence during the Aggies’ triumph over Nebraska, coupled with his enthusiastic engagement with fans, amplifies the excitement surrounding the impending clash.

Coaching Titans Clash: The impending showdown also marks a battle of coaching giants, with Kelvin Sampson at the helm for Houston and Buzz Williams leading Texas A&M. Boasting illustrious coaching careers, both Sampson and Williams command respect in college basketball circles, with multiple accolades to their names, further elevating the stakes of Sunday’s encounter.

Sweet 16 Aspirations: For both teams, the coveted Sweet 16 berth hangs in the balance, adding an extra layer of significance to the impending clash. While Houston aims for its fifth consecutive trip to the Sweet 16, Texas A&M seeks to replicate its 2018 success and secure a coveted spot in the next round. The prospect of advancing to the Sweet 16 further intensifies as the tournament progresses, with Dallas slated to host the South Region’s Sweet 16 and Elite Eight matchups, offering the potential for a significant homecourt advantage.

As the stage is set for a riveting showdown between two Texas titans, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding drama on Sunday, anticipating a clash that epitomizes the essence of March Madness.

First-Ever Pig Kidney Transplant in Human Marks Groundbreaking Medical Milestone

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First-Ever Pig Kidney Transplant in Human Marks Groundbreaking Medical Milestone

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital successfully conducted the world’s first transplant of a genetically modified pig kidney into a living human recipient, marking a significant leap forward in organ transplantation. The pioneering surgery, performed on Saturday, saw the integration of a pig kidney into 62-year-old Rick Slayman, a patient grappling with end-stage kidney disease.

Mr. Slayman, a manager with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, had endured a lengthy battle with kidney failure, undergoing previous transplant procedures and dialysis treatments. His journey led him to become the first recipient of this innovative xenotransplantation approach, which offers hope to thousands of patients facing organ shortages worldwide.

The four-hour surgery, led by Dr. Tatsuo Kawai, director of the Legorreta Center for Clinical Transplant Tolerance, saw immediate success as the pig kidney began functioning seamlessly within Mr. Slayman’s body. Describing the moment as emotional, Dr. Kawai recalled the excitement among the transplant team as the kidney “pinked up” and initiated urine production, signifying its integration.

The historic procedure comes after decades of research and collaboration, with eGenesis Bio pioneering genetic modifications in pigs to enhance compatibility with humans. CRISPR-Cas9 technology enabled precise alterations to the pig’s DNA, reducing the risk of rejection by the human immune system.

While hailed as a monumental achievement, medical experts emphasize the need for further research to assess the long-term viability and safety of pig organ transplants in humans. However, the successful outcome brings hope for addressing the critical shortage of organ donors and offering life-saving treatments to patients worldwide.

Mr. Slayman’s courageous decision to undergo this innovative procedure underscores the potential of xenotransplantation to revolutionize organ transplantation and save countless lives. As medical science continues to push boundaries, the success of this milestone offers renewed optimism for patients awaiting organ transplants and reflects the tireless dedication of medical professionals in advancing healthcare innovation.

DOJ Sues Apple, Alleging Monopolistic Practices: Potential Breakup on the Table

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DOJ Sues Apple, Alleging Monopolistic Practices: Potential Breakup on the Table

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken legal action against tech giant Apple, alleging that the company’s iPhone ecosystem operates as a monopoly, leading to its “astronomical valuation” at the expense of consumers, developers, and competitors. The lawsuit, filed by the DOJ and 16 state attorneys general, accuses Apple of anti-competitive behavior extending beyond its iPhone and Apple Watch businesses, encompassing various services such as advertising, browsers, FaceTime, and news offerings.

The suit claims that Apple’s practices have solidified its dominance in the smartphone market, hindering competition and innovation. Notably, the DOJ has not ruled out the possibility of breaking up the company, signaling a potential seismic shift in the tech industry if successful.

The legal action follows years of scrutiny into Apple’s business practices and previous DOJ cases, including disputes over e-book pricing and allegations of collusion. The lawsuit alleges that Apple’s actions are designed to maintain its monopoly power while maximizing revenue, posing a significant risk to its business model.

Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, and other executives have come under fire for their remarks and decisions, including limitations on cross-platform messaging apps and smartwatch compatibility. The DOJ also highlighted Apple’s resistance to cloud streaming services on its App Store platform, echoing complaints from industry players like Microsoft and Meta.

If successful, the lawsuit could compel Apple to make significant changes to its core businesses, including the iPhone, Apple Watch, and lucrative services division. However, Apple has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that the lawsuit threatens its ability to innovate and could set a dangerous precedent for government intervention in technology.

The legal battle between Apple and the DOJ underscores broader concerns about the power and influence of big tech companies. With the outcome uncertain, the case has the potential to reshape the competitive landscape of the tech industry and influence future regulatory actions against dominant players like Apple.

NFL Owners to Decide Fate of Texans’ Ownership: cal McNair’s Future Hangs in Balance

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NFL Owners to Decide Fate of Texans’ Ownership: cal McNair’s Future Hangs in Balance

At the upcoming NFL owners’ meeting, league owners will deliberate on whether to ratify Houston Texans chairman and CEO Cal McNair as the franchise’s new principal owner, a source disclosed to ESPN.

The critical vote is slated for Tuesday morning during the NFL owners’ session.

Following the passing of Bob McNair, the former owner of the Texans, in November 2018, his spouse Janice McNair assumed the role of principal owner for the Texans and became one of only 10 women holding such positions across NFL franchises.

In the wake of his father’s demise, Cal McNair has taken charge of the Texans’ day-to-day football operations and has been the face of the team at owner’s meetings, effectively representing the organization in place of Janice.

While reports of the vote surfaced, it’s imperative to note that the Texans are not slated for sale, according to an ESPN source, who emphasized that the franchise has no immediate plans for such a move.

If Cal McNair secures the majority vote from fellow NFL owners, he will continue to helm the franchise, a responsibility he has shouldered for the past five seasons. During this tenure, the Texans have recorded a 31-51-1 win-loss record.

The decision on McNair’s potential elevation to principal owner comes on the heels of the resolution of a legal matter concerning Janice McNair. Last month, one of her sons, Robert Cary McNair Jr., had filed a case seeking her declaration as incapacitated and the appointment of a guardian. However, on Feb. 26, attorneys representing Cary McNair and other involved parties jointly moved to dismiss the lawsuit, signaling the end of the legal dispute.

Houston Dash Coach Matt Lampson Suspended Amid National Women’s Soccer League Probe

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Houston Dash Coach Matt Lampson Suspended Amid National Women’s Soccer League Probe

The Houston Dash have bid farewell to goalkeeper coach Matt Lampson following an inquiry into allegations of policy violations within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), as confirmed by the league in a statement released on Thursday.

According to the NWSL statement provided to The Equalizer, Lampson’s removal from his coaching duties stemmed from an alleged relationship with a player at the club. The league’s investigation concluded that Lampson breached the NWSL Anti-Fraternization Policy and the NWSL Coach Code of Conduct. Notably, the investigation did not uncover any violations of the NWSL Anti-Harassment Policy.

The NWSL Anti-Fraternization Policy, outlined in a 2023 document, prohibits supervisors from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with employees, including players, over whom they have direct or indirect supervisory authority. Similarly, the NWSL Coach Code of Conduct emphasizes the necessity for coaches to maintain professional boundaries with athletes and strictly prohibits any romantic or sexual involvement with players.

Lampson, a former Major League Soccer (MLS) player with stints at clubs like the Columbus Crew and LA Galaxy, has been suspended by the NWSL until the conclusion of the 2024 season. The league mandates that Lampson acknowledges his wrongdoing, undergoes NWSL-mandated training, and demonstrates a commitment to rectifying his behavior before being considered for future employment within the league.

The departure of Lampson comes at a critical juncture for the Houston Dash, who faced a defeat against the North Carolina Courage in their season opener last week. The team is set to make their 2024 home debut against Racing Louisville FC at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday.

Governor Greg Abbott Optimistic About Prospects for Private School Voucher Plan

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Governor Greg Abbott Optimistic About Prospects for Private School Voucher Plan

Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick voiced optimism about the passage of a private school voucher plan during a recent gathering at the conservative Texas Public Policy Foundation’s annual conference in Austin.

Addressing attendees on March 20, Abbott expressed confidence in the likelihood of state lawmakers approving the voucher plan next year. He highlighted the recent primary election outcomes, where several anti-voucher Republicans were defeated or forced into tight runoffs, signaling a shift in support towards vouchers.

Abbott, who spearheaded efforts to remove House Republicans opposing the voucher plan, emphasized the imperative of advancing the initiative, characterizing resistance to vouchers as a departure from constituents’ wishes.

The broader context underscores a longstanding divide, with rural House Republicans and Democrats aligning to block the controversial voucher program. Critics argue that vouchers would divert crucial funding from public schools, while proponents, including Abbott and Patrick, contend that vouchers offer parents the flexibility to opt out of underperforming schools.

Patrick echoed Abbott’s sentiments during a speech at the conference on March 21, underscoring the urgency of implementing school choice to counter what he referred to as the “woke culture” pervasive in schools.

Looking ahead, Patrick projected the adoption of a voucher plan in February 2025, contingent upon Abbott designating vouchers as an emergency item to expedite legislative action. Notably, vouchers ranked among Abbott’s emergency priorities for the 2023 session.

In a bold statement, Patrick declared that the failure to pass the voucher bill would prompt him to withhold signing any legislation throughout the session, emphasizing the pivotal role of vouchers in their legislative agenda.

Beyond the voucher debate, Abbott and Patrick also highlighted other legislative priorities, including property tax cuts, border security measures, and opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion offices at public universities. The legislative fervor in Texas, characterized by a historic 246 days of legislative activity in 2023, underscores the state’s role as a bastion of liberty and freedom, according to Patrick.

Meanwhile, Texas continues to grapple with the implications of Senate Bill 4, a contentious immigration law entailing provisions for the arrest and deportation of migrants suspected of illegal border crossings. The fate of SB 4 remains uncertain following a federal appeals court hearing on March 20, with no immediate decision on its enforcement.

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