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NBA All-Star Weekend 2024 Promises High-Flying Action at Slam Dunk Contest

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NBA All-Star Weekend 2024 Promises High-Flying Action at Slam Dunk Contest

Mac McClung celebrates with the trophy after winning the Dunk Contest.

Excitement is building as the NBA All-Star weekend 2024 gears up for what promises to be a thrilling event, both figuratively and literally, with the spotlight shining on the highly anticipated Slam Dunk contest.

Traditionally, the Slam Dunk contest serves as the highlight of Saturday’s All-Star lineup, following closely on the heels of the skills challenge and 3-point contests. While the contest had somewhat lost its luster in recent years, the star power is back in full force this time around.

Notably, Boston Celtics’ standout Jaylen Brown will headline the event, marking the first time since 2018 that an All-Star player has participated in the dunk contest. Brown joins a stellar lineup of contenders including Jaime Jaquez Jr. from the Miami Heat, rookie Jacob Toppin of the New York Knicks, and defending champion Mac McClung from the G League’s Osceola Magic.

Scheduled to take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis—the home turf of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts—the NBA All-Star dunk contest will be broadcast live on TNT starting at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can also catch the action via online streaming and the TNT app. The event will be hosted by the network’s renowned “Inside the NBA” crew comprising Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith.

Last year’s champion, Mac McClung, who wowed audiences with his jaw-dropping dunks, will be back to defend his title. The contest’s panel of judges includes basketball legends Gary Payton, Mitch Richmond, Dominique Wilkins, and former Slam Dunk Contest champions Fred Jones and Darnell Hillman.

As for the contest format, participants will undergo two rounds, showcasing their aerial artistry with a mix of creativity and athleticism. The first round allows each contestant 1 minute and 30 seconds and three attempts to execute their dunks. The top two dunkers with the highest composite scores will advance to the final round, where they will vie for the coveted title.

With past winners including iconic names like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Vince Carter, the NBA All-Star Slam Dunk contest remains a stage for showcasing unparalleled athleticism and jaw-dropping feats of aerial prowess. As anticipation mounts for this year’s showdown, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the electrifying spectacle set to unfold at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Latino Voter Turnout Expected to Surge in 2024 Election, Potentially Influencing Key Battleground States

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Latino Voter Turnout Expected to Surge in 2024 Election, Potentially Influencing Key Battleground States

In a projection unveiled by the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) on Wednesday, an estimated 17.5 million Latinos are anticipated to cast their votes in the upcoming November elections. This figure marks a notable 6.5% increase from the 2020 turnout and holds the potential to wield significant influence in pivotal battleground states.

The rise in projected Latino voter participation underscores the expanding pool of eligible Hispanic voters, provided concerted efforts are made to ensure their registration.

During a press conference, Arturo Vargas, CEO of NALEO, emphasized, “The takeaway here is that if we are able to get Latinos registered to vote, they will turn out in elections.”

Dorian Caal, NALEO’s director of civic engagement research, highlighted that in the 2020 elections, a remarkable 88% of registered Latino voters exercised their voting rights.

NALEO anticipates that Latinos will comprise more than 1 in 10 voters in November, constituting an 11% share—a notable 20.5% surge from 2016.

Noteworthy increases in Latino voter turnout are projected in several states compared to 2020 figures, including California (6.1%), Florida (13.8%), Nevada (15.5%), and New York (12.4%). Conversely, states such as Arizona, Georgia, New Jersey, and Texas are anticipated to maintain turnout rates similar to those recorded in 2020.

NALEO’s projections are grounded in historical voting patterns and demographic trends.

Reflecting on the heightened enthusiasm witnessed in the 2020 election cycle, Vargas remarked, “The turnout rate for all voters nationally was 92%. And for Latinos, 88% of those registered to vote voted.” He highlighted the diminishing gap between Hispanic and non-Hispanic voter turnout, largely attributed to compelling factors driving voter engagement, including concerns over healthcare costs and social justice issues following the death of George Floyd.

Moreover, increased outreach efforts by campaigns and advocacy groups contributed to bolstering Hispanic voter participation in 2020.

With Hispanics comprising the largest racial and ethnic minority group in the United States, totaling 63.7 million individuals according to the 2022 Census, efforts to ensure their registration and engagement in the electoral process are increasingly pivotal.

Caal emphasized, “The challenge is getting Latinos registered… because the number of Latinos eligible to vote is growing much faster than any other population.” This underscores the imperative of proactive measures to harness the burgeoning Latino electorate’s potential impact on shaping the nation’s electoral landscape.

Travis Scott Hosts Annual Celebrity Softball Classic to Support HBCU Students

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Travis Scott Hosts Annual Celebrity Softball Classic to Support HBCU Students

Travis Scott, the renowned musician and philanthropist, gathered a star-studded lineup of celebrities and athletes for the 2024 Cactus Jack Foundation HBCU Celebrity Softball Classic held at Minute Maid Park on Thursday.

The event, organized in partnership with the Cactus Jack Foundation and Project H.E.A.L initiative, aims to support students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who face financial adversity in their final year of studies, ensuring they graduate alongside their peers.

One of the key beneficiaries of the event is the Waymon Webster Scholarship Fund, which awarded a total of $1 million in scholarships to 100 seniors at HBCUs to assist with tuition fees.

The stadium was abuzz with excitement as fans cheered on their favorite celebrities and athletes, who took to the field to showcase their skills and support the cause.

Among the standout participants was C.J. Stroud, the Houston Texans’ Pro Bowl selection and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, who delivered a stellar performance, earning the title of Most Valuable Player. Stroud’s impressive display included crushing home runs and demonstrating his natural talent for baseball.

Reflecting on his participation, Stroud expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause, emphasizing the importance of supporting initiatives that uplift communities.

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who overcame a life-threatening injury to return to the football field, also joined the lineup of participants. For Hamlin, the event held special significance, symbolizing his love for football and the resilience that defines his journey.

The Cactus Jack Foundation HBCU Celebrity Softball Classic serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and philanthropy in making a positive impact on the lives of students and communities. Through events like these, Travis Scott and his foundation continue to champion education and empowerment, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and succeed.

Bulletproof Vests, Neo-Nazi Book Among Evidence Seized from Lakewood Church Shooter’s Home

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Bulletproof Vests, Neo-Nazi Book Among Evidence Seized from Lakewood Church Shooter’s Home

In the aftermath of the tragic incident at Lakewood Church, the City of Conroe Police Department has disclosed a detailed inventory of evidence confiscated from the residence of Genesee Moreno, the woman who entered the Houston mega-church armed with a loaded gun.

Moreno met a fatal end at the hands of officers after brandishing a loaded AR-15 rifle within the premises of Lakewood Church. The revelation of evidence comes as investigators strive to unravel the motives behind her actions.

KPRC 2 Investigates obtained 911 recordings, totaling 21 calls dating back to December 2019, shedding light on the series of events preceding the church shooting. Among these records, officials previously hinted at the potential presence of bomb-making materials within Moreno’s home.

Before succumbing to gunfire, Moreno inflicted injury upon a male victim inside Lakewood Church. Upon confrontation by law enforcement, she purportedly brandished her weapon and asserted possession of a bomb. Notably, one officer reported observing Moreno with a “yellow in color rope and substances consistent with the manufacture of explosive devices, which appeared to be a detonation cord.” However, the credibility of Moreno’s bomb threat remains unresolved.

The inventory of seized evidence paints a chilling portrait, including multiple rounds of ammunition, bulletproof vests, a white mask adorned with the phrase ‘Free Gaza Trump,’ a neo-nazi publication, and two containers housing unidentified white substances, among other items.

See full list of items found here:

As the investigation into the Lakewood Church shooting continues, authorities endeavor to piece together the puzzle surrounding Moreno’s motives and the circumstances leading to the tragic altercation.

Yolanda Saldivar Breaks Silence on Selena’s Death in Upcoming Oxygen True Crime Series

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Yolanda Saldivar Breaks Silence on Selena’s Death in Upcoming Oxygen True Crime Series

In a riveting exploration of one of music’s most tragic chapters, Oxygen True Crime’s latest documentary series delves into the murder of Tejano sensation Selena Quintanilla Perez, offering unprecedented insights from her convicted killer, Yolanda Saldivar.

Titled “Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them,” the two-part series provides a nuanced examination of the events leading to Selena’s untimely demise, as recounted by Saldivar herself. Scheduled to premiere on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m., with subsequent episodes airing on Feb. 18, the series promises to shed new light on the complexities surrounding the case.

Saldivar, who is eligible for parole next year, offers her perspective on the fateful encounter that culminated in Selena’s tragic death, aiming to “set the story straight” after years of silence. The documentary crew also engages with members of Saldivar’s family, who share previously unseen documents and recordings, unveiling untold facets of the tragedy.

The murder, which occurred on March 31, 1995, shook the world as Selena’s promising career was abruptly cut short. Saldivar, a close confidante of the beloved singer, stands convicted of first-degree murder, having fatally shot Selena during a confrontation over financial matters.

However, the series ventures beyond the sensational headlines, inviting scrutiny from Corpus Christi Police Department detectives who challenge the validity of the new revelations. Despite Saldivar’s claims and her family’s assertions of an accidental shooting, law enforcement officials maintain their stance on her rightful conviction.

As anticipation builds for the documentary’s release, audiences can expect a comprehensive examination of a case that continues to captivate public interest decades later. With exclusive access to firsthand accounts and archival material, “Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them” promises to offer fresh perspectives on a tragic saga that left an indelible mark on music history.

In tandem with the documentary premiere, fans of Selena Quintanilla Perez can immerse themselves in her enduring legacy through a new art exhibit titled “Siempre Selena” at the El Paso Museum of Art, running from Feb. 15 to Feb. 9, 2025. As her memory lives on through her music and cultural impact, this exhibit serves as a poignant tribute to the enduring spirit of the beloved Tejano singer.

Jennifer Lopez Unveils “This Is Me…Now The Tour” Across North America

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Jennifer Lopez Unveils “This Is Me…Now The Tour” Across North America

In an exclusive announcement on TODAY, Jennifer Lopez revealed plans for her highly anticipated “This Is Me…Now The Tour,” coinciding with the release of her ninth studio album. The tour, spanning over 30 cities across North America, is set to commence in June and conclude in August, featuring performances of her greatest hits and tracks from her latest album, including the lead single “Can’t Get Enough.”

As Lopez prepares to embark on this musical journey, she shared insights into the deeply personal nature of her latest album, inspired by her rekindled romance with husband Ben Affleck. Alongside the album, Lopez will debut “This Is Me… Now: A Love Story,” a cinematic companion film depicting her journey to love and personal growth, both slated for release on Feb. 16.

The tour marks a significant milestone for Lopez, as it represents her first concert series in five years following the success of her 2019 tour. Commencing on June 26 at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida, the tour promises to deliver an electrifying experience to fans across the continent.

Tickets for “This Is Me…Now The Tour” will go on sale to the general public on Friday, Feb. 23, at 10 a.m. local time via Live Nation. Additionally, fans can access exclusive presale tickets through the J.Lo Fan Club, Citi presale, and Verizon presale, beginning on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at various times.

The tour itinerary boasts an array of cities, including Miami, Los Angeles, New York City, and Toronto, offering fans ample opportunities to witness Lopez’s dynamic performances firsthand. With a lineup of captivating venues and a repertoire of chart-topping hits, “This Is Me…Now The Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

As excitement builds for Jennifer Lopez’s upcoming tour, anticipation is mounting among fans eager to witness her unparalleled talent and infectious energy on stage. Stay tuned for further updates and announcements as Lopez prepares to take audiences on a musical journey like never before.

Trump’s Hush-Money Trial to Proceed as Scheduled On March 25th Despite Defense Pushback

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In a New York courtroom decision on Thursday, Judge Juan Manuel Merchan ruled against delaying Donald Trump’s hush-money trial, set to commence jury selection on March 25. Trump’s defense attorneys had requested a postponement, citing potential interference with his political ambitions of reclaiming the White House.

The trial marks the first of four criminal prosecutions facing Trump and revolves around allegations from his 2016 presidential campaign, implicating efforts to suppress stories regarding extramarital affairs. Additional charges against Trump include plots to overturn the 2020 election results and mishandling classified documents at his Florida estate.

Judge Merchan justified maintaining the trial date by referencing a recent delay in a Washington prosecution linked to the 2020 election aftermath. He emphasized his prior resistance to postponing the trial, stating, “In hindsight, frankly, I’m glad that I took that position, because here we are and the D.C. case did not go forward.”

Expected to span six weeks, the hush-money trial looms just weeks after Super Tuesday primaries, coinciding with a crucial period in Trump’s potential presidential candidacy. Defense attorney Todd Blanche objected to the trial’s timing, asserting that it impedes Trump’s campaign efforts.

Trump, while expressing his discontent with the trial’s scheduling, acknowledged the necessity of navigating both legal proceedings and campaign obligations. Despite his voluntary appearance in court, Trump emphasized his commitments to both legal proceedings and campaign activities.

The New York trial marks Trump’s first return to court since his historic indictment, making him the first ex-president to face criminal charges. The former president also faces indictments in Florida, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., adding to the legal complexities of his post-presidential life.

The hearing unfolds amidst Trump’s increasing entanglement with legal matters, blending with his ongoing political maneuvers. As the trial schedule solidifies, the legal saga surrounding Trump continues to captivate public attention and shape the trajectory of his political future.

Texas School Districts Transitioning to Clean Transportation Could Qualify for State Funding

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Texas School Districts Transitioning to Clean Transportation Could Qualify for State Funding

In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, numerous Texas public school districts are poised to secure state funding as they make the switch to electric buses and other eco-friendly modes of transportation.

Under the grant program administered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), districts have the opportunity to seek reimbursement as they upgrade or replace diesel-powered buses. Approximately $13.5 million has been allocated for this purpose.

According to Nate Hickman, TCEQ Program Specialist, the transition to cleaner transportation benefits everyone involved. “The new school buses certainly have little to zero exhaust … so the air in and around the school buses are cleaner,” Hickman emphasized. “That’s great for the children, the bus drivers, teachers at the school and the administration, but also the immediate communities [that] buses drive in and around.”

Districts have the flexibility to choose between upgrading existing diesel buses to reduce emissions or investing in new diesel, propane, or electric-powered vehicles. However, buses must have been manufactured before 2007 to qualify for replacement, as per the TCEQ guidelines.

Applications for the 19th year of the Texas Clean School Bus program opened on Feb. 14, with a deadline of Oct. 14 for submissions. Nevertheless, Hickman cautioned that funding is often depleted within the initial months of the application period.

The program covers up to five projects per district, providing full reimbursement for retrofitting initiatives and up to 80% reimbursement for new school buses. Originating in 2005, the Texas Legislature initiated the program with the aim of promoting cleaner transportation options within the state’s education system.

The shift towards electric buses holds substantial significance. Not only are they more fuel-efficient and cost-effective to maintain compared to their diesel counterparts, but they also operate with significantly less noise pollution.

Statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation underscore the environmental benefits of electric buses, with one electric bus capable of eliminating 1,690 tons of carbon dioxide over a span of 12 years – equivalent to removing 27 gas or diesel-powered cars from the roads.

Furthermore, the health impacts of diesel exhaust cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diesel pollutants can lead to reduced lung function, heightened susceptibility to pneumonia, and even cancer.

In recent developments, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) secured $6.25 million in federal funding for the acquisition of 25 new electric buses, with plans underway to transition all diesel buses to electric by 2035. Similarly, Cy-Fair Independent School District (ISD) near Houston utilized local grant funding to purchase 10 electric buses, signaling a statewide commitment towards sustainable transportation solutions.

#FugitiveFriday – February 16, 2024

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#FugitiveFriday – February 16, 2024

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.

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 February 15, 2024 at 5:30 pm.

RODNEY RAY GAMBLE JRB/M      12-23-96      6’00”/145 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1836425, 1836426, 1836425
EVADING ARREST/DETENTION W/VEH
POSS CS PG 1/1-B >=1G<4G     
UNL POSS FIREARM BY FELON    
Last known location: Houston Texas
TRIREKA LA SHA GRAYB/F      11-03-92      5’02”/135 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1845115
THEFT <$2,500 2/MORE PREV CONV
Last known location: Houston Texas
RACHEL MICHELLE GUTIERREZW/F      10-11-87      5’00”/125 Lbs.      Bro/Grn
Warrant #: 1853085, 1851694
THEFT <$2,500 2/MORE PREV CONV x2
Last known location: Houston Texas
ALAN ROYCE OLIVER JRW/M      05-30-78      5’07”/180 Lbs.      Bro/Haz
Warrant #: 1763420
PROB VIOL FRAUD/USE/POSS ID INFO- 5-9 IT
Last known location: Channelview Texas
TIFFANY BETTANMAAL PETERSB/F      12-18-78      5’04”/138 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1735565
PROB VIOL BURGLARY OF HABITATION       
Last known location: Houston Texas
RAYMUNDO PRIETO JRW/M      09-30-72      6’01”/215 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1793568
PROB VIOL POSS CS PG 1/1-B >=1G<4G
Last known location: Baytown Texas
BRITTANY NICOLE SKILESW/F      08-12-96      5’03”/115 Lbs.      Bln/Haz
Warrant #: 1778462
PROB VIOL HARASSMENT OF PUBLIC SERVANT 
Last known location: Houston Texas
CHRISTOPHER LEE WHITEW/M      12-13-85      5’09”/145 Lbs.     Bro/Haz
Warrant #: 1852286
UNAUTH USE OF VEHICLE
Last known location: Magnolia Texas
BOBBY DARREN WILLIAMSB/M      09-01-89      6’01”/180 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1824301
PROB VIOL ABAN/ENDANGER CHILD CRIM NEG
Last known location: Humble Texas
MADALENE CORRYNN WILLIAMSW/F      02-24-06      5’04”/120 Lbs.      Bro/Haz
Warrant #: 1839529
ENGAGE ORG CRIME USE/EXHIBIT D
Last known location: Houston Texas

CDC Alerts: Incorrect RSV Vaccines Administered to Pregnant Women and Children

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CDC Alerts: Incorrect RSV Vaccines Administered to Pregnant Women and Children

In a recent development, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning regarding the erroneous administration of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, particularly among specific demographic groups. The CDC highlighted instances where individuals received the wrong RSV vaccine intended for a different age group or demographic category, raising concerns within the medical community.

The RSV vaccine, authorized for use in pregnant individuals and adults over the age of 60, has faced challenges in proper administration. According to CDC reports, approximately 128 pregnant individuals received a vaccine designated for adults over 60, while approximately 25 young children were administered a vaccine only approved for adults.

Although the number of errors remains relatively small compared to the total number of vaccinations administered, the CDC underscored the importance of vigilant oversight to prevent such occurrences. While most reports did not indicate adverse events, the CDC emphasized the need for healthcare providers to remain vigilant and promptly report any unusual symptoms or reactions following vaccination.

Dr. Daniel Ganjian, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, highlighted the complexity of introducing new vaccines and treatments, which can sometimes lead to confusion, particularly in busy healthcare settings. Ganjian stressed the importance of seeking information from reliable sources such as the CDC or healthcare providers to ensure accurate understanding of vaccination protocols.

In response to these incidents, healthcare providers are urged to adhere to stricter protocols to minimize errors in vaccine administration. Dr. Patricia Faraz, a board-certified OB/GYN, emphasized the need for verification procedures and proper storage practices to mitigate the risk of administering the wrong vaccine.

Despite these challenges, experts affirm the importance of RSV vaccination, particularly for pregnant individuals to protect against severe complications and safeguard newborns. However, concerns remain regarding the use of certain vaccine brands in pregnancy, necessitating further research to assess safety and efficacy.

As individuals consider RSV vaccination, healthcare professionals advise seeking guidance from trusted sources and ensuring clarity regarding vaccine types and eligibility criteria. By staying informed and proactive, individuals can play a crucial role in mitigating risks and promoting effective vaccination strategies in combating RSV and safeguarding public health.

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