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Harris County’s “Uplift Harris” Guaranteed Income Program Application Postponed, Details Under Review

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Harris County’s “Uplift Harris” Guaranteed Income Program Application Postponed, Details Under Review

Harris County officials announced on Monday that the launch of the online application portal for the “Uplift Harris” guaranteed income program has been postponed until later this week. The initiative, which aims to provide $500 per month for 18 months to low-income families, will undergo a review by county leaders at the upcoming Commissioners Court meeting on Tuesday. Further program details are expected to be released in the coming days, with a focus on clarifying eligibility criteria.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis’ office for Harris County Precinct 1 confirmed that commissioners will use the upcoming session to “iron out” specifics related to eligibility and program implementation. The delay in the launch allows for a more thorough examination of the “Uplift Harris” program to ensure it effectively addresses the needs of the community.

Under the program, approximately 1,928 eligible residents will receive direct cash assistance over the course of 18 months, providing financial relief for families facing economic challenges. The funds are intended to cover essential expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, housing, utilities, and healthcare. Monthly payments will be distributed randomly, with applicants selected from the county’s most underserved neighborhoods.

Last summer, Harris County officials identified priority areas through specific zip codes, including 77050, 77093, 77051, 77060, 77028, 77033, 77026, 77081, 77547, and 77091. These zip codes encompass various neighborhoods, including Gulfton, Galena Park, Sunnyside, Acres Homes, and more.

To be eligible for the “Uplift Harris” program, households must be living 200 percent below the federal poverty line. This equates to an individual earning $29,160 per year or a family of four with a maximum income of $60,000 annually. Applicants must be 18 years or older to apply, and additional recipients will be selected from the county’s Public Health ACCESS program, which offers specialized services for vulnerable individuals, focusing on education, employment, healthcare, and housing.

Funded through $20.5 million in American Rescue Plan Funds, the “Uplift Harris” program received approval from Harris County leaders in June 2023. Similar initiatives have been launched in Los Angeles County and Chicago.

Residents are encouraged to submit online applications, with notifications expected via email or phone in mid-February. The initial payments are slated to begin in March or April, distributed through direct deposit or on a prepaid reloadable debit card. For more details on the program, interested individuals can find additional information here.

Pope Francis Advocates Global Ban on Surrogacy, Denounces Commercialization of Unborn Children

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Pope Francis Advocates Global Ban on Surrogacy, Denounces Commercialization of Unborn Children

In a comprehensive address to ambassadors representing 184 nations with diplomatic ties to the Vatican on Monday, Pope Francis fervently called for a worldwide prohibition on surrogate motherhood. He denounced the practice as “deplorable” and emphasized that unborn children should not be treated as commodities for trafficking.

The pontiff asserted that surrogacy represents a profound violation of both the dignity of women and the sanctity of children, exploiting the financial circumstances of surrogate mothers. He declared, “A child is always a gift and never the basis of a commercial contract,” emphasizing the moral implications of such arrangements.

This is not the first time Pope Francis has spoken out against surrogacy. In 2022, he referred to it as “inhuman,” highlighting the exploitation of predominantly economically disadvantaged women and the commodification of children.

The global landscape regarding surrogacy laws is diverse, with only a handful of countries and some U.S. states permitting commercial surrogacy. Others allow “altruistic” surrogacy, where no financial transactions take place, while several nations, especially in Europe, have outright banned the practice.

In his annual address to the diplomat corps, often regarded as the pontiff’s “state of the world” speech, Pope Francis underscored the threat posed by conflicts and divisions to global peace. Surrogacy found its place in this list, alongside issues such as the ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine, the immigration crisis, climate change, arms proliferation, antisemitism, the persecution of Christians, and artificial intelligence.

Reflecting on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the pope emphasized that such conflicts inevitably lead to indiscriminate suffering among civilian populations, asserting that grave violations of international humanitarian law constitute war crimes. As Pope Francis addressed a myriad of global concerns, his call for a universal ban on surrogacy stood out as a moral imperative in the pursuit of a more just and humane world.

Verizon Customers Could Get a $100 Payout. Here’s How to Claim the Class Action Money

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Verizon Customers Could Get a $100 Payout. Here’s How to Claim the Class Action Money

Verizon Wireless is paying up to $100 million to settle lawsuit claims about a misleading administrative charge.

Verizon logo on a phone
You could be eligible for up to $100 in a Verizon class-action settlement.James Martin/CNET

If you’re a current or former Verizon customer who purchased a traditional, postpaid wireless plan in the past seven years, you may be owed money as part of a $100 million class action lawsuit settlement. Verizon is making the payments to address claims that its service plans were misleading because the advertised prices did not include an administrative charge.

In a class-action lawsuit, the plaintiffs allege (PDF) that Verizon implemented, charged and increased an administrative fee for postpaid wireless or data services in a deceptive and unfair manner.

In a statement to CNET, a Verizon spokesperson said the company “clearly identifies and describes its wireless consumer Admin Charge multiple times during the sales transaction, as well as in its marketing, contracts and billing. This charge helps our company recover certain regulatory compliance and network-related costs.”

Jornada Sabatina De Credencialización

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Jornada Sabatina De Credencialización

Este sábado 13 de enero en el Consulado General de México en Houston podrás tramitar sin cita tu credencial para votar INE

  • Solotienes que traer:
  • Identificación con fotografía,
  • Comprobante de domicilio,
  • Documento que acredite nacionalidad mexicana.

Que no se te pase, tienes hasta el 20 de febrero para tramitarla.

Horario: 7:30 am a 2:00 y de 3:00 a 7:00 pm

3200 Rogerdale Rd Houston, Tx 77042

Houston Police Shoot Suspect During Marijuana Altercation at Gas Station

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A man is hospitalized after an incident involving Houston police in northeast Houston, where authorities say officers shot the individual during a confrontation.

The Houston Police Department (HPD) revealed that the incident unfolded at a gas station in the 8400 block of Tidwell Road near Haddick Street. According to HPD, officers detected the smell of marijuana emanating from a car parked at the gas station around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Upon approaching the vehicle, officers requested the 39-year-old man inside to exit. However, the man reportedly refused to comply, prompting the officers to attempt a physical removal. During this interaction, the officers observed a handgun on the car’s floorboard.

Efforts to use a Taser proved unsuccessful, leading to a critical moment in the encounter. Asst. Chief Kevin Deese stated, “One of the two officers at that point realized and made the declaration that the suspect was reaching for the gun. At that time, he (the officer) discharged his firearm.”

Following the shooting, the suspect fled into a convenience store where he was eventually apprehended after a brief struggle. Despite sustaining a gunshot wound to the lower body, the man was conscious and breathing when transported to the hospital. His condition is reported as stable.

The HPD shared an image on social media depicting the weapon found inside the suspect’s vehicle.

Notably, the officers involved in the incident emerged unharmed. One officer has been serving with the department for three years, while the other boasts four years of service. The HPD is likely to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Tiger Woods Ends 27-Year Partnership with Nike

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Tiger Woods Ends 27-Year Partnership with Nike

In a surprising move, golf legend Tiger Woods announced on Monday the end of his long-standing partnership with Nike, marking the conclusion of a 27-year relationship with the iconic apparel manufacturer. Woods broke the news via social media, expressing gratitude for the remarkable moments and memories shared during the collaboration.

“Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” Woods stated. “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever.”

The 15-time major winner joined forces with Nike in 1996, creating a synonymous and iconic pairing of Woods and the Nike Golf brand. The collaboration extended beyond clothing, as Woods had his own line of Nike golf clubs and a signature shoe that other professional golfers adopted. Even after Woods transitioned to TaylorMade golf clubs and Bridgestone golf balls, Nike remained his go-to brand for apparel.

Woods expressed gratitude to Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, for his passion and vision that brought about the partnership. He also acknowledged the Nike employees and fellow athletes with whom he had the pleasure of working throughout the years.

While Woods did not disclose the reasons for the split or his future plans, speculation had been brewing since the PNC Championship in December. Reporters pressed Woods about the status of his expiring 10-year contract with Nike, and he cryptically responded, “I’m still wearing their product.” However, the golfer made it clear that 2024 would see a change, leaving fans intrigued about the next chapter in his career.

Woods concluded his announcement with a mysterious message: “People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!” Woods is set to host The Genesis Invitational at The Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, California, from February 15 to 18, adding a layer of anticipation to his upcoming endeavors.

Apple Announces Launch Date for Vision Pro Headset in the U.S.

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Apple Announces Launch Date for Vision Pro Headset in the U.S.

In a press release on Monday, Apple revealed that its highly anticipated Vision Pro headset is set to launch in the United States on February 2, with preorders kicking off on January 19 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. The company aims to enter the virtual reality (VR) space, competing directly with Meta’s Quest headsets, marking Apple’s foray into a new product category since the introduction of the Apple Watch in 2015.

The Vision Pro, priced at $3,500, has been in development for several years and was officially unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in 2023. According to the company’s statement, the headset is equipped with 256 GB of storage and offers prescription lens inserts for an additional $149.

Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized the arrival of the “era of spatial computing,” positioning the Vision Pro as a groundbreaking device in the VR landscape. The headset is powered by Apple’s M2 chip, the same chip utilized in its computers, showcasing the company’s commitment to cutting-edge technology.

While analysts and experts predict that the Vision Pro may not initially drive significant revenue, Apple is positioning the headset to redefine user experiences in gaming and video content consumption. The device introduces a new operating system, VisionOS, complemented by an advanced input system enabling users to control the headset through their eyes, hands, and voice.

Key features of the Vision Pro include compatibility with productivity and creativity apps, such as Microsoft’s Office suite and Salesforce’s Slack. Apple envisions users enjoying an immersive experience while watching content from various platforms, including Apple TV+, on a virtual reality screen that provides a sensation of being 100 feet wide.

As the release date approaches, industry observers are eager to see how the Vision Pro will impact the competitive landscape of the growing virtual reality market. Apple’s strategic entry into VR underscores its commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of consumer technology.

Texas Real Estate Anticipates Growth in Single-Family Homes and Office Spaces in 2024

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Texas Real Estate Anticipates Growth in Single-Family Homes and Office Spaces in 2024

A comprehensive report from the Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center indicates that Texas is poised to witness a surge in the delivery of single-family homes and office spaces throughout the state in 2024.

Released on January 4, the “2024 Texas Real Estate Forecast” by the research center delves into overarching trends that could impact the real estate market. Utilizing various principles, the research team provides projections on how the market is likely to fare in the coming year.

Daniel Oney, the research director, emphasized that the forecast is not merely a prediction but a strategic economic tool designed to empower decision-makers in the real estate sector. He stated, “It equips real estate decision-makers with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the Texas real estate market.”

Key Highlights from the Report:

Residential Market:

  • Anticipated growth in single-family home inventory, reaching pre-pandemic construction levels.
  • Single-family home prices expected to remain close to $340,000.
  • Multifamily rent projected to increase by 2.5% compared to the previous year.

Commercial Market:

  • Expansion in office space inventory, surpassing 2023 levels.
  • Retail rents forecasted to rise by 2% by the end of the year.

Industrial Market:

  • Anticipated statewide increase in industrial inventory between 1.5%-3%.
  • Continued growth in industrial rents, albeit at a slower pace than in 2023.

Detailed Analysis:

The forecast predicts a return to pre-pandemic levels in the delivery of single-family housing, with an expected growth of almost 4% compared to the previous year. While median home prices might experience a slight dip, they are anticipated to hover around $340,000 statewide.

The commercial sector could witness a surge in office space inventory, potentially adding 10 million square feet. Retail space, on the other hand, is expected to maintain its current levels.

The report also indicates a downward trend in rural land sales for 2024, with the median land price projected to peak before experiencing a decline.

The “2024 Texas Real Estate Forecast” is accessible on the Real Estate Research Center’s website.

Congress Strikes $1.59 Trillion Spending Deal Amid Looming Shutdown Threat

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Congress Strikes $1.59 Trillion Spending Deal Amid Looming Shutdown Threat

In a crucial move to avert a potential government shutdown, Congressional leaders announced a bipartisan deal on Sunday, setting a top-line spending budget of $1.59 trillion for the 2024 fiscal year. The agreement, reached just days before the looming Jan. 19 deadline, allocates $886 billion for military spending and $704 billion for non-defense expenditures.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana shared the details of the deal in a note on Sunday, highlighting the intense negotiations that led to the agreement. Johnson emphasized the importance of unlocking the FY 24 topline numbers, allowing the Appropriations Committee to initiate negotiations on the twelve annual appropriations bills.

Despite the deal signaling progress and cooperation between Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), the possibility of a government shutdown still lingers as parties continue to grapple over key policy issues.

In a joint letter on Sunday, Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) expressed optimism about the framework agreement, stating that it would enable appropriators to address major challenges both domestically and internationally. They underscored the importance of maintaining investments for American families, secured by legislative achievements under President Biden and Congressional Democrats.

Acknowledging that the spending levels may not satisfy all parties, Johnson clarified that the deal provides a pathway to “move the process forward,” reprioritize funding towards conservative objectives, and advocate for important policy riders included in House FY24 bills.

Key concessions made in the deal include a $10-billion cut to IRS mandatory funding under the Inflation Reduction Act and a $6.1 billion reduction in “COVID-era slush funds.”

Schumer and Jeffries specified that the deal allocates $772.7 billion toward non-defense discretionary funding, safeguarding key domestic priorities from cuts sought by right-wing extremists.

The coming weeks present a significant test for Johnson’s leadership as House Speaker. With a shrinking majority and Louisiana Republican House Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s absence, the GOP margin is reduced to one vote. This necessitates Democratic votes for any spending deal, making it challenging for House Republicans to pass bills along party lines.

President Biden, in a statement released on Sunday, expressed approval of the deal, urging Congressional Republicans to fulfill their responsibility to fund critical domestic and national security priorities and to act promptly to avoid a government shutdown.

The deal, while providing a potential resolution to the funding crisis, sets the stage for further negotiations and challenges in the weeks ahead.

The 2024 Golden Globes Showcase Top Oscars Contenders and Celebrate Outstanding Achievements

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The 2024 Golden Globes Showcase Top Oscars Contenders and Celebrate Outstanding Achievements

The 2024 Golden Globes unfolded on Sunday, marking a pivotal moment in the awards season by solidifying the positions of major Oscars contenders. Hosted by comedian Jo Koy at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, the ceremony honored outstanding achievements in film and television throughout 2023.

Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” emerged as a dominant force, securing five prestigious accolades, including Best Picture — Drama, Best Actor (Cillian Murphy), and Best Supporting Actor (Robert Downey, Jr.). The film’s success positioned it as a strong contender in the upcoming Oscars race. Meanwhile, Lily Gladstone, star of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” strengthened her lead in the Best Actress category.

The event served as a crucial platform for nominees to make impassioned speeches ahead of the Oscars nominations announcement on Jan. 23. Emma Stone (“Poor Things”), Paul Giamatti (“The Holdovers”), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (“The Holdovers”), and the cast of “Oppenheimer” took the opportunity to share their gratitude and excitement on national television.

Among the top film nominees were Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” which won Best Original Song for Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell’s “What Was I Made For?” and received the Globes’ inaugural Box Office Achievement honor. Other notable contenders included Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things” and Celine Song’s breakout drama “Past Lives.”

On the television front, the final season of HBO’s “Succession” dominated the drama category, earning multiple acting awards and the coveted Best Television Series trophy. FX’s “The Bear” also garnered significant recognition in the comedy category.

The 2024 Golden Globes marked a turning point for the awards body, following a year of significant changes. The implementation of two new competitive categories, including one for box office success, and the dissolution of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) membership body were notable transformations. The changes were prompted by a 2021 exposé revealing a lack of diversity within the HFPA, leading to widespread criticism and the restructuring of rules and membership requirements.

The complete list of winners from the 2024 Golden Globes is provided below:

Film Categories:

  • Best Motion Picture — Drama: “Oppenheimer”
  • Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy: “Poor Things”
  • Best Motion Picture — Animated: “The Boy and the Heron”
  • Best Motion Picture — Non-English Language: “Anatomy of a Fall” (France)
  • Cinematic and Box Office Achievement: “Barbie”
  • Best Director: Christopher Nolan, “Oppenheimer”
  • Best Original Score: Ludwig Göransson, “Oppenheimer”
  • Best Original Song: “What Was I Made For?” — Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, “Barbie”

Television Categories:

  • Best Television Series — Drama: “Succession”
  • Best Television Series — Musical or Comedy: “The Bear”
  • Best Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television: “Beef”
  • Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama: Kieran Culkin, “Succession”
  • Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Drama: Sarah Snook, “Succession”
  • Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy: Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear”
  • Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy: Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”
  • Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television: Steven Yeun, “Beef”
  • Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television: Ali Wong, “Beef”
  • Best Performance by a Supporting Actor/Actress in a Series, Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television: Matthew Macfadyen, “Succession”; Elizabeth Debicki, “The Crown”

Stand-Up Comedy on Television:

  • Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television: Ricky Gervais, “Ricky Gervais: Armageddon”

The 2024 Golden Globes proved to be a momentous occasion, recognizing outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry and setting the stage for the upcoming Oscars.

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