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Rodeo Houston Legend Leon Coffee Retires from Barrel Riding After 31 Years

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Rodeo Houston Legend Leon Coffee Retires from Barrel Riding After 31 Years

After three decades of captivating audiences as a barrel man and clown at Rodeo Houston, Leon Coffee bids farewell to his iconic role, marking the end of an era. However, while he may be stepping away from the arena, Coffee remains dedicated to spreading joy and continuing his mission of making people happy.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Coffee expressed gratitude for his time at Rodeo Houston, describing it as the pinnacle of his achievements. “My rodeo career in Houston is the highlight of my career. Not everybody can get a really good rodeo. But, when you get them it takes a lot to keep them,” he remarked.

Coffee’s last barrel ride is scheduled for Sunday, marking the culmination of an extraordinary chapter in his life. Despite his retirement from barrel riding, he reassures fans that he will remain an integral part of Rodeo Houston, committed to bringing laughter and entertainment to audiences.

“The good Lord put me on the earth to do two things, and that’s help people out and make people happy. I could do them both right there in the ring, but he didn’t say I couldn’t do it outside of it,” Coffee affirmed.

Throughout his tenure, Coffee cherished the collaborative spirit of Rodeo Houston, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the audience. “I try to have a relationship with every person in this building… I want a relationship with everybody because fans are what build this,” he shared.

Looking ahead, Coffee eagerly anticipates his continued involvement in Rodeo Houston’s fan zone, where he aims to spread joy and uphold the tradition of community engagement. As he embarks on this new chapter, Coffee’s legacy as a beloved rodeo personality endures, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of rodeo enthusiasts and fans alike.

Judge Juan M. Merchan Juggles High-Profile Trump Case While Presiding Over Mental Health Court

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Judge Juan M. Merchan Juggles High-Profile Trump Case While Presiding Over Mental Health Court

In a Manhattan courtroom adorned with high ceilings and solemn decor, Judge Juan M. Merchan finds himself at the center of two vastly different worlds. While his upcoming role overseeing Donald Trump’s hush money case garners widespread attention, Merchan continues to preside over the less conspicuous proceedings of Manhattan’s Mental Health Court.

The expanse between these two realms couldn’t be starker. While the former entails navigating complex legalities and facing the scrutiny of a former U.S. president, the latter involves closely monitoring mentally ill offenders’ progress toward rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Amid the looming anticipation of Trump’s trial, Merchan remains steadfast in his dedication to delivering justice. “There’s no agenda here. We want to follow the law. We want justice to be done,” he emphasized in an interview, underlining his commitment to upholding judicial integrity.

Merchan’s trajectory to the forefront of the Trump case is marked by a distinguished legal career. Born in Colombia, he immigrated to New York at a young age, eventually ascending to the bench after years of service as a state prosecutor and family court judge.

Over the years, Merchan has presided over a myriad of cases, ranging from murder trials to complex financial frauds. However, it is his recent involvement in matters related to Trump’s business empire that has thrust him into the national spotlight.

Trump’s legal team has raised concerns about Merchan’s impartiality, citing alleged biases and familial connections to Democratic causes. Despite these assertions, Merchan remains resolute in his commitment to fairness and objectivity.

Beyond the glare of the media spotlight, Merchan dedicates Wednesdays to overseeing Manhattan’s Mental Health Court, a forum where offenders with mental illness undergo rigorous treatment programs in lieu of incarceration. Here, Merchan’s demeanor exudes compassion and encouragement as he navigates the intricate paths to rehabilitation.

Last week, amidst a flurry of proceedings, Merchan offered words of encouragement to participants, acknowledging their progress and resilience in the face of adversity. From celebrating milestones to addressing setbacks, Merchan’s unwavering commitment to fostering rehabilitation underscores his multifaceted approach to justice.

As Merchan prepares to navigate the complexities of the Trump trial, his steadfast dedication to upholding the rule of law serves as a beacon of integrity in the legal arena. Whether presiding over high-profile cases or championing the cause of mental health advocacy, Merchan’s judicial acumen and unwavering commitment to justice continue to shape the landscape of the legal profession.

Desperate Search for Missing Christina Johnson Intensifies

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Desperate Search for Missing Christina Johnson Intensifies

The Johnson family of Houston is reeling from the disappearance of their beloved daughter, Christina Johnson, who vanished without a trace on March 6, 2024. A routine morning walk with her dog, Max, near her parents’ residence on Westbrook Drive in southwest Houston turned into a harrowing ordeal when Christina failed to return home.

Concerns for her safety have mounted as days have turned into weeks without any sign of her whereabouts. Emmanuel Johnson, Christina’s father, voiced his fears, suspecting that she may be in peril. “I believe so because she would have definitely come home on the first day,” he expressed, adding, “She may even be held against her will or anything can be going on right now, Lord knows where she is. I have no idea.”

Desperate for any leads, the family provided crucial details about Christina’s appearance on the day of her disappearance. Clad in a sweatshirt, COVID mask, shorts, and Crocs with colorful socks, she carried a backpack adorned with a stuffed animal. Perhaps most alarming, Christina left her phone behind, hindering potential tracking efforts and exacerbating her family’s anguish.

Emmanuel Johnson wasted no time in filing a missing persons report with the Houston Police Department on March 9th. Determined to leave no stone unturned, he vowed to distribute flyers and scour the Harris County area in search of his daughter. “Somebody may have seen something, remember her or the dog, or a female with a dog. Hopefully, it sparks someone’s memory,” he pleaded.

As the community rallies behind the Johnson family in their quest for answers, Texas EquuSearch has offered assistance in locating Christina. Emmanuel Johnson shared insights into his daughter’s recent struggles, expressing concern about her vulnerability. “Anybody could approach her, and she wouldn’t really recognize the danger that’s in front of her,” he lamented, issuing a heartfelt plea for Christina’s safe return.

“Come on home… your mother is worried about you. Your brother is coming down from out of town. We are all worried about you. Please just come on home,” Emmanuel Johnson implored, his plea echoing the sentiments of a family longing for reunion.

Houstonians are urged to contact HPD’s Missing Persons Unit at 832-394-1840 with any information regarding Christina Johnson’s whereabouts, as her family clings to hope in their relentless pursuit of answers.

FBI Chief Expresses Concern Over Terrorists Crossing Borders With Fake IDs

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FBI Chief Expresses Concern Over Terrorists Crossing Borders With Fake IDs

FBI Chief Christopher Wray has expressed alarm over the threat posed by known or suspected terrorists who utilize counterfeit identification to enter the U.S. through the southern border. This, he states, is a significant worry for the nation’s intelligence network.

Wray voiced these concerns on Tuesday during the 2024 Annual Threat Assessment hearing conducted by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. This hearing was attended by key members of the U.S. intelligence community including Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence; William Burns, CIA Director; General Timothy Haugh, National Security Agency Director and U.S. Cyber Command Commander; and Lieutenant General Jeffrey Kruse, Defense Intelligence Agency Director.

The hearing underscored the escalated threats facing the U.S., posed by foreign powers such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. It also highlighted the U.S.-Mexico border as a potential entry point for malicious actors intending to infiltrate the country.

During the hearing, Mississippi’s Republican Representative Trent Kelly asked Wray if the FBI was confident in tracking every known or suspected terrorist—or anyone else on a watchlist—on the southern border or any other border, and if these individuals were subsequently apprehended, deported, or monitored by the authorities.

Wray responded by stating that there were several categories of individuals that they were apprehensive about. He expressed confidence in the coordination between the FBI and DHS (Department of Homeland Security) when a known or suspected terrorist is caught at the border. However, he highlighted the greater risk posed by those who use false identification documents at the border. Since there are no biometrics to verify their identity, these individuals could potentially enter the country undetected until it is discovered that they are on a watchlist.

Wray also informed Select Committee Chairman, Republican Congressman Michael Turner from Ohio, that in the past five years, there has been an uptick in the number of known or suspected terrorists attempting to cross the southern border.

In a similar vein, Wray, during his testimony in front of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Monday, warned about the threat of individuals unlawfully entering the U.S. through the southern border. When asked by Committee member and Georgia Democrat Senator Jon Ossoff about the seriousness of the terrorism threat associated with illegal entry through the southern border, Wray confirmed his concerns, especially in light of the recent attacks by Hamas on Israel, which sparked a lethal conflict in Gaza.

On Monday, Wray stated that even before these attacks, he would have informed the committee of a heightened threat level from a terrorism perspective. He emphasized that it’s the first time in many years that he has seen threats from homegrown violent extremists, domestic violent extremists, foreign terrorist organizations, and state-sponsored terrorist organizations all elevated simultaneously.

Join Us for Lone Star College’s Chancellor Appreciation Day Honoring Mario Castillo

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Join Us for Lone Star College’s Chancellor Appreciation Day Honoring Mario Castillo

Join us on March 20th from 6 pm to 7:30 pm at Spanish Flowers, located at 14915 North Freeway, Houston, TX, as we celebrate Lonestar College Chancellor Appreciation Day en la Comunidad. This event honors Mario Castillo as the first Latino chancellor for Lonestar College. We extend our special thanks to our community partners and Que Onda Magazine for their support as official sponsors. It promises to be an evening filled with recognition, appreciation, and community spirit as we come together to acknowledge Chancellor Castillo’s achievements and contributions. Come and join us in celebrating diversity, leadership, and the impact of education in our community.

Eva Longoria and Bill McRaven Among Recipients of $100 Million Bezos Prize for Social Impact

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Eva Longoria and Bill McRaven Among Recipients of $100 Million Bezos Prize for Social Impact

In a philanthropic endeavor aimed at recognizing individuals making significant societal contributions, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez have announced a $100 million donation as part of Bezos’ annual prize initiative.

This year’s recipients, each receiving $50 million, are actor and entrepreneur Eva Longoria, renowned for her role in ABC’s drama Desperate Housewives, and Bill McRaven, a retired Navy admiral and former chancellor of the University of Texas System.

The Bezos Courage and Civility Award, established to honor individuals striving to address complex challenges, promote unity, and champion civility, recognizes the recipients’ work with charitable organizations.

Previous recipients of the prize include lawyer and CNN commentator Van Jones and chef José Andrés, who were each awarded $100 million in 2021, and Dolly Parton in 2022. Notably, there was no award in 2023.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, McRaven outlined his intentions to utilize the donation to support education initiatives for the children of deceased veterans, particularly within the special operations community. Additionally, he aims to address mental health and brain performance among veterans while fostering the development of future military leaders through educational programs.

Longoria, known for her advocacy in education and entrepreneurship within Latino communities, views the award as an opportunity to bolster the strength of the Latino community in the United States. Through initiatives such as the Eva Longoria Foundation, which connects Latinos and Latinas in underserved areas with peer mentors, and her support for Latino-owned small businesses, Longoria seeks to address disparities in opportunities and infrastructure.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the impact of the donation, Longoria emphasized the extraordinary potential of Latinos in the U.S. and the importance of investing in their opportunities for growth and success.

The contribution underscores Bezos and Sánchez’s commitment to fostering positive societal change and recognizing individuals dedicated to promoting courage, unity, and civility in their endeavors.

Houston to Pay $650 Million in Back Pay to Firefighters Following Landmark Agreement

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Houston to Pay $650 Million in Back Pay to Firefighters Following Landmark Agreement

In a significant development for the city of Houston, officials have announced plans to allocate $650 million in back pay to firefighters for the eight years they worked without a contract, marking a pivotal moment in resolving a long-standing dispute.

The settlement terms, disclosed in a news release on March 14, encompass all current firefighters, retired firefighters, and families of firefighters who have passed away since 2017. These groups are slated to receive lump sum payments for wages owed dating back to 2017.

In addition to addressing the backlog of back pay, the agreement holds several other notable provisions, including:

  • Permanently establishing the temporary 18% pay increases granted to firefighters in 2021.
  • Mandating additional raises of 10%, effective July 1.
  • Instituting a five-year contract to govern future engagements.
  • Implementing measures to facilitate the seamless transfer of firefighters from other area departments.
  • Preserving existing benefits for firefighters while introducing new incentives, assignment bonuses, holiday pay, and an increased uniform allowance.

Mayor John Whitmire, who announced a tentative agreement on March 1, underscored the necessity of honoring the commitment to prioritize public safety. “An agreement of this nature is absolutely necessary to recruit and retain firefighters in the quality and numbers needed to serve the largest city in Texas,” Whitmire emphasized.

The financial implications of the settlement, totaling $650 million, will be shouldered by the city of Houston through judgment bonds. Explaining the rationale behind this decision, Whitmire emphasized the importance of avoiding further litigation costs and fostering a collaborative path forward with the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association (HPFFA).

HPFFA President Patrick Lancton hailed the agreement as unprecedented, highlighting Mayor Whitmire’s leadership and cooperation in reaching a resolution. “The victory belongs to every Houston firefighter who has sacrificed for the last eight years,” Lancton remarked, underscoring the unity that propelled the negotiations forward.

Looking ahead, legal representatives for both the city and HPFFA are scheduled to present a proposed settlement and judgment to the presiding judge on March 18. A joint news conference featuring Mayor Whitmire and President Lancton will follow the court’s action, although specifics regarding the time and location of the conference are yet to be announced.

Kamala Harris Addresses Latino Concerns, Stresses Economic Opportunities in Western Tour

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Kamala Harris Addresses Latino Concerns, Stresses Economic Opportunities in Western Tour

Fresh from a tour across Western states, Vice President Kamala Harris shared insights with NBC News, highlighting reasons for optimism among Latino voters regarding the economy and job market, despite lingering challenges.

Harris’ recent visits to Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado were strategically aimed at reinforcing President Joe Biden’s State of the Union message among Latino voters while bolstering their support. In a phone interview on Wednesday, Harris underscored positive economic indicators, noting that wage growth has outpaced inflation and emphasizing a downward trend in inflation rates. She also highlighted the creation of millions of jobs and low unemployment rates, particularly among Hispanic communities.

Acknowledging that the tangible benefits of these achievements may take time to manifest, Harris emphasized the Biden administration’s policies aimed at aiding Latino families. These include measures such as capping prescription drug costs for seniors and insulin prices, initiatives with direct impacts on Latino communities, where diabetes diagnosis rates are significantly higher than among non-Hispanic whites.

Additionally, Harris pointed to the administration’s efforts in student loan debt forgiveness, which has particularly benefited first-generation students, including Latinos. Moreover, increased investment in community banks has facilitated greater lending opportunities for Latino small businesses.

Despite these initiatives, Harris acknowledged the uphill battle in reassuring Latino voters about improvements in economic conditions. Recent years have seen many Latino and Black households grappling with higher shares of household budgets spent on goods, particularly in areas such as food and rent, where inflation rates have been highest. These challenges followed years of job losses and income disruptions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Recent polls reflect these concerns, with Biden’s approval rating among Latino registered voters standing at just 35%, according to an NBC News poll conducted in late January. In a potential rematch between Biden and former President Donald Trump, the two candidates were tied among Latino voters.

Looking ahead to the 2024 election cycle, the economy remains a top concern for Latino voters, with significant numbers expressing a desire for continued progress. Additionally, immigration issues loom large, with Harris highlighting the stark differences between candidates’ approaches to immigration policy.

Harris emphasized the Biden administration’s commitment to addressing immigration challenges, including proposing a bill with a pathway to citizenship for eligible immigrants. In contrast, she criticized opponents for capitalizing on immigration issues without offering viable solutions.

Despite challenges, Harris remains optimistic about garnering Latino support on various fronts, including reproductive rights. Citing statistics indicating broad support for legal access to abortion among Latinos, she highlighted the importance of addressing reproductive health concerns within the community.

As Harris continues to engage with voters across diverse demographics, her focus remains on addressing pressing issues and rallying support for the administration’s agenda.

Major Downtown Traffic Disruption Looms as Key Houston Ramp Closes for Three Months

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Major Downtown Traffic Disruption Looms as Key Houston Ramp Closes for Three Months

Next week, commuters traveling from the Meyerland/Galleria area to downtown Houston should brace themselves for significant traffic upheaval as a crucial ramp closure takes effect.

The Loop 610 northbound connection ramp to U.S. 59/I-69 North, serving travelers from Meyerland en route to downtown, will be inaccessible for three months starting next Friday, March 22, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced.

This closure marks the final phase of a lengthy project aimed at demolishing and reconstructing various ramps within the interchange. Unlike previous closures, this reconstruction effort is expected to progress more swiftly due to the targeted replacement of specific sections, explained TxDOT Public Information Officer Danny Perez.

Acknowledging the anticipated disruption, Perez emphasized TxDOT’s awareness of the impact on traffic flow. “We do understand the impact this will have on traffic,” Perez said. “But we’re getting really close to the end of this project. We realize it will be painful for many folks.”

Anticipating a three-month closure period, TxDOT remains optimistic about completing the work ahead of schedule, citing incentives for project completion. However, the agency advises commuters to prepare for potential delays and explore alternative routes whenever possible.

For those affected by the closure, TxDOT has recommended detours to mitigate traffic congestion. One suggested route involves utilizing the connector ramp to I-69 southbound main lanes, followed by the Chimney Rock Road exit, a U-turn at Chimney Rock onto the I-69 northbound frontage road, and re-entry onto I-69 northbound main lanes. Alternatively, commuters can opt for an alternate detour via the Westpark/Richmond exit and navigating the 610 Loop northbound frontage road to I-69 northbound main lanes.

The timing of the closure, strategically planned after the Houston rodeo and spring break, aims to minimize disruptions during peak travel periods. This ramp closure represents a pivotal component of a larger $260 million highway project aimed at enhancing safety and mobility on both freeways. Initiated in 2018, the Southwest Freeway Interchange project aims to replace and improve connectors between U.S. 59/I-69 and the West Loop 610, with an expected completion date in the fall of 2024.

The urgency of such infrastructure upgrades is underscored by the segment of West Loop 610 between I-10 and the Southwest Freeway being labeled the most congested roadway in Texas, according to a report from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. This congestion not only disrupts traffic flow but also incurs significant costs for motorists, amounting to over $120 million in 2022 alone, according to the report’s findings.

University of Houston Leads NCAA Tournament Favorites Amidst Selection Sunday Anticipation

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University of Houston Leads NCAA Tournament Favorites Amidst Selection Sunday Anticipation

As the NCAA Tournament looms, the University of Houston, currently holding the coveted No. 1 spot nationally, stands poised as one of the prime contenders for the championship title. However, before the Cougars and other hopefuls can embark on their quest for glory, the crucial question remains: where will they land in the tournament bracket? Here’s a comprehensive guide to keep you informed:

Selection Sunday Schedule

The anticipation will culminate this Sunday, as the men’s bracket is set to be unveiled at 5 p.m. CT during CBS’ March Madness selection show. Hosted by Adam Zucker alongside esteemed analysts Clark Kellogg, Jay Wright, and Seth Davis, the hour-long program will feature insights from NCAA Division I men’s basketball committee chair Charles McClelland, a former Texas Southern athletic director. Viewers can also catch the announcement via live stream on the NCAA March Madness Live app and Paramount+, CBS’ streaming platform. Following CBS’ reveal, ESPN will offer its own in-depth analysis with the “Bracketology” show from 6-7 p.m.

Game Commencement

The men’s tournament will kick off on Tuesday, March 19, with the “First Four” taking place in Dayton, Ohio. This initial phase will feature matchups between the four lowest-seeded at-large teams and the four lowest automatic qualifier teams. Subsequently, the NCAA Tournament will commence in full swing on March 21, with games broadcasted across CBS, TNT, TBS, and TruTV.

Venue Locations

Eight sites have been designated for the first- and second-round games. Among these, Memphis, Tennessee, is the nearest location to Houston, with games scheduled for March 22 and 24. Notably, this is where most predictions place the University of Houston’s trajectory. Other host cities include Brooklyn, New York; Charlotte, North Carolina; Indianapolis, Indiana; Omaha, Nebraska; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Spokane, Washington.

Key Tournament Dates

  • Selection Sunday: March 17
  • First Four: March 19-20
  • First Round: March 21-22
  • Second Round: March 23-24
  • Sweet 16: March 28-29
  • Elite Eight: March 30-31
  • Final Four: April 6 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona
  • NCAA Championship Game: April 8 at Glendale, Arizona

Looking Ahead: Sweet 16 and Beyond

Dallas will host the South Regional on March 29-31 at the American Airlines Center, the anticipated landing spot for the University of Houston. Additionally, regional competitions will take place in Boston (East), Detroit (Midwest), and Los Angeles (West).

Other Texas Teams and Women’s Tournament

Aside from the University of Houston, Baylor, Texas, Texas Tech, and TCU are widely expected to secure spots in the tournament. However, Texas A&M remains on the bubble, while Sam Houston (C-USA) and TSU (SWAC) must clinch victories in their conference tournaments to advance.

Meanwhile, the NCAA Women’s Tournament selection bracket will be unveiled on ESPN at 7 p.m., followed by a “Bracketology” special from 8-10 p.m. Texas and Baylor are assured entries, but Texas A&M faces uncertainty, and Lamar (South) must secure its conference tournament win for advancement. Campus sites will host the first- and second-round games, with regional contests set in Portland, Oregon, and Albany, New York, from March 29 to April 1. The Final Four will take place in Cleveland on April 5 and 7, marking the pinnacle of the women’s collegiate basketball season.

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