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Dwayne Johnson Secures Legal Ownership of Iconic “The Rock” Name in WWE Deal

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Dwayne Johnson, widely known as “The Rock” in the professional wrestling world, is set to legally own the iconic moniker under a new agreement with WWE. In addition to this landmark development, Johnson will join the board of TKO Group, the sports and entertainment company housing both WWE and UFC.

“The Rock” name holds sentimental value for Johnson, originating from his father, WWE Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson, who made history as the first Black champion in WWE alongside Tony Atlas. In an interview with CNBC, Johnson refrained from disclosing the financial details of the WWE deal but emphasized the personal significance of the name.

“I owe that name everything,” Johnson expressed. “Without that name, there’d be no wrestling career. There’d be no Hollywood career.”

The multi-talented movie and wrestling star, with an extensive business portfolio, including Seven Bucks Productions, Teremana Tequila, ZOA Energy, Project Rock apparel, and the United Football League, adds this significant legal ownership to his achievements.

This marks Johnson’s first time serving on the board of a publicly traded company, and he expressed his motivation to contribute to the global expansion of TKO, WWE, and UFC businesses. In a prepared statement, Johnson highlighted his commitment to representing athletes and performers who work tirelessly to fulfill their dreams and entertain audiences.

TKO Group Holdings Inc. sees Johnson’s appointment to the board as a strategic move to deliver long-term value and strong performance for shareholders across both UFC and WWE. The appointment is effective Tuesday, signifying Johnson’s entry into a new realm of corporate leadership.

Starting his wrestling journey with WWE in 1996, Johnson became a third-generation wrestling sensation, engaging in memorable rivalries with the likes of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and Triple H. His finishing maneuver, The Rock Bottom, and eight WWE championships solidified his status as a wrestling legend. Beyond the wrestling ring, Johnson has achieved success in movies such as “Fast X,” “Black Adam,” “Jungle Cruise,” and “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.”

Recently making appearances on WWE’s “Smackdown” and “Raw” television programs, rumors swirl about Johnson potentially competing at this year’s WrestleMania, adding excitement to his enduring connection with the wrestling world.

Supreme Court Allows Removal of Razor Wire at US-Mexico Border Amid Legal Battle

In a pivotal decision, the Supreme Court has granted permission for US Border Patrol agents to dismantle razor wire deployed as part of Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott’s border security initiative. The 5-4 vote represents a significant victory for President Joe Biden in the ongoing dispute with Abbott over border policies.

The justices’ order comes amidst a heightened border policy disagreement, intensified after three migrants drowned in a section of the Rio Grande where state officials had restricted agents’ access. The Biden administration had urgently sought the high court’s intervention, leading to the Supreme Court’s decision to lift a federal appeals court order that had halted the removal of razor wire along a small stretch of the Rio Grande.

Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented, expressing their disagreement with the federal request. The delay in issuing the order has raised questions about the principles of constitutional federalism, according to legal analysts.

While the Biden administration welcomes the decision, some concerns linger about the potential implications for states’ ability to interfere with federal law enforcement. White House spokesman Angelo Fernández Hernández expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s action, emphasizing the importance of addressing urgent humanitarian situations and enforcing laws.

Texas Governor Abbott’s spokesperson, Andrew Mahaleris, argued that the absence of razor wire might encourage unsafe and illegal border crossings. Abbott intends to continue defending Texas’ authority to secure the border.

The Department of Homeland Security welcomed the court’s order, highlighting that immigration law enforcement is a federal responsibility. The agency criticized Texas for impeding federal personnel’s ability to enforce laws and administer consequences in a safe and orderly manner.

Legal arguments presented to the Supreme Court emphasized the constitutional Supremacy Clause, with Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar asserting that Texas’s position could allow states nationwide to impede federal authority. Prelogar also highlighted Texas’s recent escalation of efforts, including the installation of new barriers, to hinder border patrol duties.

The ongoing legal battle over the removal of concertina wire is set for oral arguments in the 5th Circuit on February 7. The court will weigh the federal government’s authority to remove wire installed by Texas along the Rio Grande banks.

The Biden administration has repeatedly called on Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to address challenges at the US-Mexico border. The White House remains committed to finding bipartisan agreements with Congress for additional resources and meaningful policy reforms.

Geomagnetic Storm Alert: Possible Disruptions to Power Grids and Satellites as Solar Outburst Approaches Earth

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In a dramatic turn of events, a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) has been observed erupting from the Sun, and its impact is set to reach Earth today. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a geomagnetic storm watch, warning of potential disruptions to power grids, satellites, and GPS systems. Additionally, sky gazers might witness auroras further south than usual.

The CME, a colossal release of solar plasma, lifted off from the Sun on Sunday, prompting the SWPC to predict a moderate solar storm on Earth spanning Monday and Tuesday. Geomagnetic storms are categorized on a scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), and the current event has been classified as a G2 or G3. While the SWPC reassures the general public that there’s no need for major concern, there is a possibility of disturbances to power grids, radio transmissions, and satellite orbits.

A G3 storm, such as the one anticipated, could also bring about the stunning spectacle of the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. States in the northern and upper Midwest regions, from New York to Idaho, may witness this colorful phenomenon. Interestingly, during G5 storms, the Northern Lights have even been observed as far south as Florida and southern Texas.

Geomagnetic storms, according to the SWPC, result from significant disturbances in Earth’s atmosphere caused by the exchange of energy from solar wind. The most intense storms are associated with CMEs, where billions of tons of solar plasma reach Earth. These storms can take as little as 18 hours or several days to impact our planet.

This solar eruption comes at a time when the sun is nearing its solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year cycle marked by explosive activity. In November 2023, the SWPC predicted that this solar maximum would be more intense, lasting longer and resulting in more sunspots, solar flares, and CMEs. As a positive consequence, the Northern Lights are expected to grace the skies more frequently, providing sky watchers with an increased opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle.

What You Need to Know About Tomorrow’s New Hampshire Primary Election

For over a century, New Hampshire has proudly hosted the first primary election in the United States, solidifying its status as a pivotal state in the presidential race. However, the 2024 primary calendar brings a significant departure from tradition, raising questions and reshaping the political landscape.

Delegates at Stake: Republican and Democratic Dynamics

With 22 delegates at stake for Republicans and 32 for Democrats, New Hampshire’s position is crucial in the nominating process. Yet, due to the state running its primary ahead of the Democratic National Committee’s schedule, it’s anticipated that no Democratic delegates will be awarded after Tuesday’s vote.

Republican Showdown: Trump vs. Haley

The Republican race took an unexpected turn as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis withdrew from the competition, leaving a showdown between former President Donald Trump and former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley.

Controversy and Commitment: New Hampshire’s “First-in-the-Nation” Status

Amidst controversy over New Hampshire’s commitment to maintaining its “first-in-the-nation” primary status, the state finds itself at a critical juncture in this unique primary season on January 23.

Trump’s Target: Recapturing Victory in New Hampshire

After a historic win in the Iowa caucuses, Trump looks to New Hampshire, the state that played a pivotal role in his 2016 GOP nomination. A CBS poll conducted in December 2023 showed Trump with a double-digit lead over Haley among likely GOP primary voters. However, this was before the exits of DeSantis, Chris Christie, and Vivek Ramaswamy.

Open Primaries: Undeclared Voters Hold the Key

New Hampshire’s primary system is “open,” allowing undeclared voters, a significant bloc constituting over 39% of registered voters, to participate in either the Democratic or Republican primary. This flexibility is crucial for Haley, aiming to sway both conservative and undeclared voters away from Trump, while registered Democrats and Republicans each make up about 30% of the voting demographic.

Record Turnout Anticipation: Secretary of State’s Projections

Anticipating record turnout, New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan predicts approximately 322,000 Republicans and 88,000 Democrats participating in their respective primaries. The deadline to switch party registration expired in early October, restricting registered voters to one party’s primary.

DNC’s Scheduling Shift: Biden Absent on the Ballot

Despite being embraced as the first primary state by Republicans, the Democratic National Committee’s early primary schedule, supported by President Biden, disrupted the traditional Iowa-to-New Hampshire slate. New Hampshire Republicans resisted the DNC’s changes, leading to Biden not appearing on the state’s primary ballot, a rare move for a sitting president.

Democratic Challengers: Absence of Biden Spurs Primary Competition

With the absence of President Biden on the ballot, Democratic primary challengers have emerged. Representative Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson are among the 21 Democrats on the ballot, challenging the status quo.

Voter Sentiments: Frustrations and Diverse Perspectives

As New Hampshirites express frustration with the political climate, registered Republicans exhibit a range of views. While some support Trump’s policies, others, like Ralph Lewis, view Nikki Haley as the candidate to unify America. However, concerns about Trump’s legal issues and divisiveness are voiced by some Republicans like Brenda Bell and Bruce Gurley.

Critical Chapter Unfolds: 2024 Primary Season Dynamics

The 2024 primary season in New Hampshire unfolds against a backdrop of evolving political dynamics and shifting voter sentiments, setting the stage for a critical chapter in the nation’s presidential race.

La Porte Mourns Loss of Police Chief Doug Ditrich in Tragic Accident

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The City of La Porte is grappling with the untimely death of its Police Chief, Doug Ditrich, who tragically lost his life in an accident on Sunday in Milam, Texas. City officials have refrained from disclosing details surrounding his death but emphasized that no foul play was involved.

Chief Doug Ditrich had been an integral part of the La Porte Police Department since 1997 and, recognizing his dedication and service, was promoted to the position of chief in May of the previous year.

The La Porte Police Department issued a statement on Monday expressing deep sorrow over the loss:

“The City of La Porte, Texas, is extremely saddened to share the passing of its police chief, Doug Ditrich, following a fatal accident in Milam County on Sunday, January 21. Chief Ditrich’s family was notified, and the City respects their need for privacy at this time. The incident was unrelated to any investigation or law enforcement duties, and no foul play was involved. The City is providing counseling assistance for the Police Department and City staff. As available, memorial service information will be shared. LPPD Assistant Chiefs Bennie Boles and Scott Pullig will oversee Department operations until further notice.”

The statement affirms that the incident leading to Chief Ditrich’s passing was not related to any ongoing investigation or law enforcement duties. In the wake of this tragic loss, the City is extending counseling assistance to both the Police Department and City staff.

As the community mourns the loss of Chief Doug Ditrich, Assistant Chiefs Bennie Boles and Scott Pullig will assume responsibility for overseeing Department operations until further notice. Details regarding memorial services will be shared as they become available, allowing the community to come together in honoring the memory of a dedicated public servant.

Houston Residents Seek Answers Amid USPS Delivery Delays in Missouri City

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Houston-area residents are expressing frustration over significant delivery delays at a United States Postal Service (USPS) facility in Missouri City. Congressman Al Green, representing the city’s 9th district, revealed that around 30 residents, including one woman awaiting her wedding dress, have reported missing packages.

The ongoing issues are attributed to the USPS’s “Delivering for America” plan, aimed at modernizing the postal system. As part of this plan, the Missouri City center has transitioned into a local processing center, while the North Houston Processing and Distribution Center now serves as a regional hub.

According to USPS statements provided to the Houston Chronicle, “As with any transition, some unintended and temporary disruptions may occur. We are taking steps to ensure packages are processed as quickly and efficiently as possible and apologize to any customers who may be experiencing issues with delivery of their items.”

Congressman Al Green addressed the concerns at a press conference on Monday, providing updates on the actions being taken to resolve the situation. Green emphasized the need for greater transparency from the Postal Service, urging them to meet with the press and make on-site customer service representatives available to assist the public.

To actively address the delivery delays, Green announced plans to draft a letter to send to the committee overseeing the Postal Service. He also intends to tour two USPS facilities to better understand the challenges contributing to the delays.

In the interim, Green encourages affected individuals to reach out to him for assistance while also advising them to contact USPS directly to report and address their delivery concerns. As the community seeks answers, the Congressman remains committed to resolving the issues and ensuring a smoother mail delivery process in the Houston area.

FIFA President Calls for Automatic Forfeits in Response to Racist Abuse Incidents

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Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, has advocated for the introduction of automatic forfeits for teams whose fans engage in racist abuse during matches. This proposal comes in the wake of incidents described by Infantino as “totally abhorrent” during games at Udinese and Sheffield Wednesday.

AC Milan’s victory at Udinese was briefly halted due to alleged racist abuse directed at Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan by home fans. Similarly, Coventry’s Kasey Palmer reported facing similar abuse at Hillsborough during a match against Sheffield Wednesday.

Infantino expressed his views on the matter through a post on X, stating the need for harsher punishments. He proposed the implementation of an automatic forfeit for teams whose fans are responsible for racist incidents leading to match abandonment. Additionally, he called for worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges against the perpetrators.

“FIFA and football show full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination!” Infantino declared.

The incidents in Udine and Sheffield prompted strong condemnation from the FIFA president, emphasizing his unequivocal support for the affected players. Infantino urged all relevant stakeholders to take decisive action, starting with educational initiatives in schools to instill the understanding that racism has no place in football or society.

AC Milan’s players walked off the pitch briefly after Maignan reported hearing “monkey noises” from the crowd at the Stadio Friuli. Despite the disruption, the players returned, and Milan ultimately secured a 3-2 victory. Maignan called for meaningful actions to address the recurring issue of racism in football.

The incident involving Kasey Palmer led to a temporary stoppage in Coventry’s Championship win over Sheffield Wednesday. South Yorkshire police have initiated an investigation, and the club pledged to impose the “strictest possible sanctions” on anyone found culpable.

Infantino’s call for automatic forfeits aligns with the collective support expressed by various entities, including AC Milan, Inter Milan, and anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out. The latter emphasized that clubs, in addition to authorities, should face consequences if they cannot prevent such incidents. The charity welcomed FIFA’s push for stronger and more meaningful punishments to address the persistent problem of racism in football.

Ron DeSantis Suspends Presidential Campaign, Endorses Trump

In a surprising turn of events, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential primary, just two days before the New Hampshire primary. Previously viewed as a formidable opponent to Donald Trump, DeSantis announced his decision and endorsed the former president through a video on the social media platform X.

Following a second-place finish in Iowa, DeSantis expressed his deliberation on the campaign’s future, stating, “If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it. But I can’t ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources. We don’t have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign.”

DeSantis emphasized that a majority of Republican primary voters seem inclined to give Donald Trump another chance. He endorsed Trump, citing the need to avoid a return to the “old Republican guard” represented by Nikki Haley.

Nikki Haley responded to the news while on the campaign trail in New Hampshire, acknowledging DeSantis’s race and wishing him well. She commented, “It’s now one fella and one lady left.”

The uncertainty surrounding DeSantis’s intentions became apparent after his second-place finish in Iowa. The campaign sent mixed signals, with the candidate shuttling between South Carolina and New Hampshire, creating confusion among voters, donors, and campaign aides. DeSantis canceled appearances on Sunday-morning television programs, adding to the speculation about his campaign’s future.

Advisers and donors expressed uncertainty about DeSantis’s decision until Sunday morning when he officially announced his withdrawal from the race. Trump and his allies had hinted at DeSantis’s potential withdrawal, with Rep. Matt Gaetz suggesting the likelihood of DeSantis getting back on Trump’s side.

DeSantis, who initially sought to position himself as an alternative to Trump, faced challenges in peeling away enough support from the former president. Relentless attacks from the Trump machine and his own missteps, coupled with a significant spending campaign against him, contributed to the fading momentum of his once-promising presidential bid.

The campaign, marked by infighting, financial troubles, and a complicated relationship with the super PAC Never Back Down, struggled to gain traction. Despite a strong start, DeSantis’s presidential aspirations faced hurdles, and his decision to suspend the campaign reshapes the dynamics of the Republican primary race.

5th Circuit Court Temporarily Blocks Texas Law Requiring Sexual Content Ratings on School Books

In a recent development, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has issued a temporary block on a contentious Texas law, House Bill 900, which aimed to mandate book vendors to provide ratings for sexual content before selling to schools.

The conservative court, in a move that aligns with the concerns raised by booksellers, ruled that the law violated freedom of speech and posed potential “irreparable” financial harm to the vendors. The ruling effectively prevents the Texas Education Agency Commissioner, Mike Morath, from enforcing the law.

It’s crucial to note that while the court blocked the requirement for book ratings, it did not impede a separate provision of the law. This specific aspect mandates new library collection standards, prohibiting schools from acquiring or displaying materials deemed “sexually explicit.”

Key Points:

  • Plaintiffs’ Lawsuit: The lawsuit was initiated by various parties, including bookstores in Austin and Houston, the Association of American Publishers, and others. They contended that the law was excessively broad, granting unchecked licensing authority to state officials over book selection in public schools.
  • HB 900 Overview: The law, also referred to as the “Restricting Explicit and Adult-Designated Educational Resources Act,” compelled vendors to rate their books as “sexually explicit,” “sexually relevant,” or provide “no rating.” The court criticized these ratings as neither factual nor uncontroversial.
  • Vendor Obligations: Book vendors were required to submit their ratings to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) by April 1, with annual reviews. The TEA could correct ratings and restrict schools from purchasing books from non-compliant vendors.
  • Free Speech Violation: The court ruled that the law, known as the READER Act, infringed on booksellers’ rights to free speech by forcing them to adopt the TEA’s ratings or face revenue loss.
  • Remaining Law Provision: A part of the law, requiring the Texas State Library and Archives Commission to establish library collection standards, remains in effect. These standards, adopted by the Texas State Board of Education, are unrelated to vendor ratings.
  • Support and Opposition: Supporters argue that the law enhances parental control over children’s exposure to inappropriate content, while opponents express concerns that it may unfairly target books discussing race and sexuality.

Reactions:

  • Bill Author’s Response: Rep. Jared Patterson, the author of HB 900, expressed disappointment at the court’s decision and called for an appeal to the United States Supreme Court.
  • Plaintiffs’ Statement: The plaintiffs welcomed the court’s decision as “historic,” emphasizing the protection of constitutionally guaranteed speech and the prevention of government-compelled speech on private citizens.

As this legal battle unfolds, the fate of the controversial Texas law remains uncertain, leaving stakeholders on both sides closely watching for further developments.

Taste the Tradition: Houston’s Best BBQ Places Unveiled

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Houston, a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene, is also a barbecue enthusiast’s haven. From tender briskets to smoky ribs, the metropolis boasts a plethora of BBQ joints that tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Here’s a mouthwatering roundup of the 10 best BBQ places in Houston, each offering a unique spin on this beloved American cuisine.

  1. Corkscrew BBQ:
    • Nestled in Spring, Corkscrew BBQ is a local gem celebrated for its perfectly smoked brisket and flavorful sausage. The lines may be long, but the melt-in-your-mouth experience is undoubtedly worth the wait.
    • Location: 26608 Keith St, Spring, TX 77373
    • Website: Corkscrew BBQ
  2. The Pit Room:
    • A Montrose favorite, The Pit Room is a BBQ haven with a laid-back vibe. Their delectable brisket, inventive sides, and welcoming atmosphere make it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
    • Location: 1201 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
    • Website: The Pit Room
  3. Blood Bros. BBQ:
    • This Asian-inspired barbecue joint brings a fusion of flavors to Houston’s BBQ scene. The innovative menu features dishes like gochujang-rubbed brisket and Thai green curry boudin, delivering a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure.
    • Location: 5425 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77401
    • Website: Blood Bros. BBQ
  4. Gatlin’s BBQ:
    • Situated in the Heights, Gatlin’s BBQ is a family-owned establishment serving up classic Texas barbecue. Their mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and homemade sides create a comforting and satisfying experience.
    • Location: 3510 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77018
    • Website: Gatlin’s BBQ
  5. Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue:
    • This Tomball gem combines two indulgent pleasures: chocolate and barbecue. Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue crafts exceptional smoked meats alongside handcrafted chocolates, providing a unique and delightful pairing.
    • Location: 200 N Elm St, Tomball, TX 77375
    • Website: Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue
  6. Roegels Barbecue Co.:
    • Known for its traditional approach to barbecue, Roegels Barbecue Co. in the Bellaire area is celebrated for its perfectly smoked meats and Southern-style sides. The commitment to quality shines through in every bite.
    • Location: 2223 S Voss Rd, Houston, TX 77057
    • Website: Roegels Barbecue Co.
  7. Pinkerton’s Barbecue:
    • Located in the Heights, Pinkerton’s Barbecue offers a rustic charm and expertly smoked meats. The pitmaster’s dedication to the craft is evident in the succulent brisket, ribs, and house-made sausage.
    • Location: 1504 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009
    • Website: Pinkerton’s Barbecue
  8. Feges BBQ:
    • Feges BBQ, a relative newcomer, has quickly made a mark with its inventive menu. From brisket to smoked turkey and unique sides like loaded baked potato salad, Feges BBQ offers a fresh take on traditional barbecue.
    • Location: 3 Greenway Plaza C-210, Houston, TX 77046
    • Website: Feges BBQ
  9. Ray’s BBQ Shack:
    • A neighborhood favorite in Third Ward, Ray’s BBQ Shack is known for its flavorful meats and homestyle sides. The friendly atmosphere and generous portions make it a staple for both locals and BBQ enthusiasts.
    • Location: 3929 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, TX 77021
    • Website: Ray’s BBQ Shack
  10. Killen’s Barbecue:
    • A bit of a drive to Pearland, Killen’s Barbecue is worth every mile. Renowned for its exceptional brisket, this barbecue joint by Chef Ronnie Killen consistently ranks among the best in Houston.
    • Location: 3613 E Broadway St, Pearland, TX 77581
    • Website: Killen’s Barbecue

Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or a newcomer to the scene, Houston’s diverse BBQ landscape promises a smoky, savory adventure. From traditional pit stops to innovative fusion joints, these top 10 BBQ places showcase the city’s commitment to delivering a mouthwatering barbecue experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.