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Start building your credit today!

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Start building your credit today!

By: Michael Esparza

Starting a credit history is important for building a strong financial foundation. A good credit history can help you qualify for loans, get lower interest rates, and rent an apartment. If you are starting out, there are a few things you can do to build your credit history.

  1. Open a Bank Account: Start by opening a checking and savings account with a bank or credit union. This establishes a basic financial relationship and helps you manage your money.
  2. Apply for a Secured Credit Card: A secured credit card is a good option if you have no credit history. You’ll need to provide a security deposit, which becomes your credit limit. For example, if you deposit $300, you can charge up to $300 on your card. Make small purchases and pay the balance in full every month to build a positive payment history.
  3. Become an Authorized User: You can ask a family member to add you as an authorized user on their credit card account. Their positive credit history may be reported on your credit report, helping you start building credit.
  4. Apply for a Starter Credit Card: Look for credit cards designed for individuals with limited or no credit history. These cards might have higher interest rates but can help you build credit if used responsibly.
  5. Apply for a Student Credit Card: If you are a college student, you may qualify for a student credit card, which is designed for young adults who are new to credit. Student credit cards typically have lower credit limits and higher interest rates than regular cards, but they may also offer features that can help you build your credit history and learn financial skills. For example, some student cards may reward you for paying on time, maintaining a good GPA, or giving you access to educational resources or free credit scores. To apply for a student credit card, you may need to provide proof of enrollment, income, or bank account information.
  6. Pay Bills on Time: Pay all your bills, including utilities and rent, on time. Timely payments contribute to a positive payment history. 
  7. Pay Your Credit Card Statement in Full: Paying your credit card balance in full is better than making the minimum payment because it saves you money on interest, builds your credit score faster, and helps you avoid debt collectors.
  8. Keep Utilization Low: If you have a credit card, keep your credit utilization (the percentage of your available credit you’re using) below 30%. This shows lenders that you can manage credit responsibly.
  9. Check Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report for errors or inaccuracies. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) once a year.
  10. Avoid Opening Too Many Accounts: Opening too many accounts in a short period can negatively impact your credit score. Only apply for credit when you need it.
  11. Diversify Your Credit: Over time, consider having a mix of credit types, such as a credit card and an installment loan (like a personal loan or auto loan).
  12. Be Patient: Building credit takes time. Consistently practicing good credit habits will gradually improve your credit history and score.

Remember, the key is responsible credit management. Pay your bills on time, keep your balances low, and avoid taking on more credit than you can handle. This will help you establish a positive credit history and pave the way for better financial opportunities in the future.
Close-up of several credit cards Description automatically generated

Third arrest made in killing of Savanah Soto and boyfriend Matthew Guerra

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Third arrest made in killing of Savanah Soto and boyfriend Matthew Guerra

A third arrest has been made in the shooting death of a Texas teen and her boyfriend, San Antonio police said.

Myrta Romanos, 47, was charged with three felonies, including altering, destroying, or concealing a human corpse, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence, police announced Wednesday.

Her arrest comes one week after police charged Christopher Preciado, 19, with capital murder and Ramon Preciado, 53, with abuse of a corpse. Ramon Preciado’s charge stems from allegedly helping Christopher Preciado move the bodies after they were killed.

San Antonio Police Department Lt. Michelle Ramos said at a news conference Wednesday that Romanos is “maybe a stepmother” to Christopher Preciado, and all three suspects lived together.

Police photo of Myrta Romanos / Credit: San Antonio Police Department
Police photo of Myrta Romanos / Credit: San Antonio Police Department

Savanah Nicole Soto, 18, and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, 22, were reported missing in late December before they were found dead in Guerra’s car several days later. The couple disappeared a day before Soto, who was 9 months pregnant, was scheduled to be induced to give birth. Both Soto and Guerra were found with gunshot wounds.

Police said surveillance footage was a key factor in all three arrests. Romanos was seen leaving and returning to her home in a truck with Christopher and Ramon Preciado on the night of the murder, according to police.

The gun used in the killings belonged to Romanos, police said.

Detectives were aware early in the investigation that a third person was involved but there was not enough evidence at the time to confirm it was Romanos, according to Ramos.

Shortly after the murders, police released a video showing what they described as two persons of interest. One person was seen driving a dark Chevy Silverado with a bed cover, and another was seen driving Guerra’s Kia Optima. San Antonio Police Department Chief Bill McManus said the video was recorded “very close to” where the bodies were found and a few days before they were discovered.

“A lot of information on social media that there was a third individual involved, and our homicide detectives were aware of that, however, we were looking for enough probable cause to make that arrest,” Ramos said Wednesday

Ramos said San Antonio police are confident there are no more suspects in the killings.

Milonga del Arrabal – This Saturday!

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Milonga del Arrabal – This Saturday!

Saturday, January 13, 2024

Talento Bilingue de Houston

333 S Jensen St. Houston, TX 77003

The Milonga del Arrabal is a social dance inspired by the Great Milonhas of the City of Buenos Aires. A trip that will take you to feel the atmosphere of the Golden 40s and the splendor of Argentine Tango and its orchestras.

Bring your Tango items that you no longer use and we can sell them at the Arrabal Vintage Store.

Texas National Guard and State Troopers Block Border Patrol Access in Escalating Federal-State Clash

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Texas National Guard and State Troopers Block Border Patrol Access in Escalating Federal-State Clash

In an escalating clash between state and federal authorities on the Texas-Mexico border, the Texas National Guard and state troopers have reportedly blocked U.S. Border Patrol agents from a 2.5-mile stretch of the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass. According to a court filing by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the move prevents federal agents from patrolling that specific part of the border.

Troopers and National Guard members initiated the takeover on Wednesday night, asserting “full control” of the 47-acre Shelby Park. Concertina wire and fencing were erected, closing off public access to the park indefinitely. Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas conveyed that the state’s action aimed to thwart immigrants from illegally crossing into Texas.

The DOJ, seeking intervention from the U.S. Supreme Court, highlighted the state’s escalation in measures, hindering Border Patrol’s ability to patrol or surveil the border. The court filing challenges a 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling preventing Border Patrol agents from cutting the concertina wire along the Rio Grande, placed by Texas.

The White House criticized Governor Greg Abbott’s actions, accusing him of using “extreme political stunts” to make Border Patrol’s job “harder and more dangerous.” The spokesperson emphasized the need for adequate resources, policy changes, and comprehensive immigration reform.

Governor Abbott defended the park takeover, asserting Texas’s legal authority to control ingress into any geographic location in the state. A spokesperson for Abbott blamed the Biden administration’s immigration policies and stated that Texas would continue deploying National Guard soldiers, troopers, and barriers to address the ongoing border crisis.

Tensions between Texas and the federal government have persisted since Abbott’s Operation Lone Star initiative in 2021, involving the deployment of state troopers and National Guard members to the Texas-Mexico border. The legal battle includes disputes over concertina wire placement and Abbott’s order for a floating barrier, with ongoing lawsuits and appeals shaping the complex dynamics between state and federal authorities.

Applications Open for Harris County’s “Uplift Harris” Guaranteed Income Program

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Applications Open for Harris County’s “Uplift Harris” Guaranteed Income Program

Harris County residents can now apply for the “Uplift Harris” guaranteed income pilot program, which aims to provide financial assistance to low-income households. Originally scheduled to start taking applications on Monday, the program launch was delayed to allow Harris County commissioners more time for discussion.

Under the Uplift Harris initiative, nearly 2,000 eligible low-income households will receive $500 per month in guaranteed cash payments for a duration of 18 months. To qualify, applicants must live below 200% of the federal poverty line, approximately $60,000 for a household of four, and be at least 18 years old.

Additionally, recipients must reside in one of the 10 highest-poverty zip codes in Harris County, including 77026, 77028, 77033, 77050, 77051, 77060, 77081, 77091, 77093, and 77547. Alternatively, participation in the ACCESS Harris County program, serving vulnerable populations with various needs, can also qualify individuals for Uplift Harris.

County health officials reported that 30,000 people expressed interest in the program through the county’s website. Concerns were raised about the website’s readiness to handle the demand, with Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo stating, “If it’s not, people are going to be getting calls from me personally.”

Applicants have until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, to apply. The selection process will involve a lottery, with 1,928 families randomly chosen to start receiving funds in April. Notably, the program operates on a lottery basis, not a first-come, first-served approach.

The Uplift Harris program, funded by a $20.5 million grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), received approval from the Harris County Commissioners Court in June. The grant aims to provide financial relief to struggling families for essential needs such as rent, groceries, transportation, housing, utilities, healthcare, and more.

While economists express concerns about the uncertainty of pilot program results, Harris County leaders are optimistic about addressing economic inequity. However, questions linger about the potential impact on recipients’ motivation to seek employment once the program concludes after 18 months.

As the program unfolds, Harris County leaders remain committed to addressing the needs of their residents, acknowledging the potential challenges and exploring options for future programs. The initiative represents a unique effort to alleviate economic disparities in Harris County, with ongoing discussions about its long-term implications and potential expansion.

Texas Department of Transportation Unveils Ambitious I-45 Expansion Project in Houston

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Texas Department of Transportation Unveils Ambitious I-45 Expansion Project in Houston

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is set to embark on a colossal I-45 expansion project, scheduled to commence in 2024 and spanning until 2038. This extensive initiative aims to transform the road network in Downtown Houston while adding lanes to the major north-south highway corridor, running from the northern stretch of Beltway 8 through Downtown.

The $9.7 billion project has garnered praise from TxDOT for its potential to enhance safety, alleviate congestion, and serve as an economic stimulus. However, it has also encountered opposition from community groups expressing concerns about environmental impacts and the displacement of residents and businesses within the project’s footprint.

Divided into three segments, the North Houston Highway Improvement Project entails the following components:

  • Segment 1: A $907 million project along I-45 from Loop 610 to Beltway 8
  • Segment 2: A $1.6 billion project along I-45 from I-10 to Loop 610 and parts of Loop 610
  • Segment 3: A $5.7 billion project along I-45 from I-10 to I-69, covering parts of I-10 and some downtown roadways

Key features of the project include the addition of four managed lanes on I-45 from Downtown Houston to Beltway 8 North, rerouting I-45 parallel to I-10 on the north side of downtown and parallel to I-69 on the east side of downtown, as well as incorporating bicycle and pedestrian amenities along frontage roads and cross streets.

Grady Mapes, Director of TxDOT Houston District Comprehensive Development Agreements program, revealed that construction will commence with Segment 3. This segment involves rerouting portions of I-45, straightening I-69, widening it from eight lanes to 10 or 12 lanes in each direction, and constructing a new downtown connector from I-45 to replace the Pierce Elevated.

Despite opposition and concerns raised by community groups, TxDOT officials expressed their commitment to the project. Cap structures, serving as bridges over the highway, are being planned at three locations, potentially transforming into public gathering spaces with parklike amenities.

Approximately $5 billion of the project is currently funded, with around 80% of the funding coming from federal sources. However, the project’s scale necessitates the displacement of more than 1,400 homes and businesses, as well as places of worship, schools, and medical facilities. TxDOT asserts that assistance programs are in place to support those affected, and no displacements will occur until adequate replacement housing is identified.

The I-45 expansion project, in development since 2002, received a record of decision in early 2021, paving the way for construction. Opposition grew over concerns about environmental impacts, leading to a lawsuit by Harris County and an investigation by the Federal Highway Administration. A memorandum of understanding was finalized in December 2022, and a voluntary resolution agreement (VRA) was signed in March 2023, outlining requirements for TxDOT.

While the VRA aims to address community concerns, some, including the group Stop TxDOT I-45, remain skeptical about its effectiveness. TxDOT is moving forward with plans to send the drainage project (3B1) out for construction bids in June, with work expected to begin in September or October. Construction on Segment 2 is slated for 2028. TxDOT remains open to feedback and may consider different meeting formats in the future. The I-45 expansion project continues to be a subject of debate and scrutiny as it progresses through its multi-year timeline.

Houston Rodeo Reveals Star-Studded Musical Lineup for 2024 Extravaganza

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Houston Rodeo Reveals Star-Studded Musical Lineup for 2024 Extravaganza

As Houstonians prepare to dust off their cowboy boots and Stetsons, the excitement is palpable as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo gears up for its annual spectacle at NRG Stadium. The 20-day event, running from February 27 to March 17, promises a fusion of rodeo thrills and live musical performances on its iconic star-shaped stage.

The star-studded musical lineup for the 2024 Houston Rodeo is set to captivate audiences across various genres. Here’s the full schedule:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 27, Country: Blake Shelton
  • Wednesday, Feb. 28, Country: Carly Pearce
  • Thursday, Feb. 29, Christian: For King + Country
  • Friday, March 1, Hip-Hop/Rap: 50 Cent
  • Saturday, March 2, Country: Hardy
  • Sunday, March 3, Latin: Ivan Cornejo
  • Monday, March 4, Country: Hank Williams Jr.
  • Tuesday, March 5, Country: Oliver Anthony
  • Wednesday, March 6, Country: Jelly Roll
  • Thursday, March 7, Country: Luke Bryan
  • Friday, March 8, EDM: Major Lazer
  • Saturday, March 9, Country: Lainey Wilson
  • Sunday, March 10, Norteño: Los Tigres Del Norte
  • Monday, March 11, Country Rock: Whiskey Myers
  • Tuesday, March 12, Rap: Bun B’s All-American Takeover
  • Wednesday, March 13, Rock: Nickelback
  • Thursday, March 14, Country: Zac Brown Band
  • Friday, March 15, Pop: Jonas Brothers
  • Saturday, March 16, Country: Brad Paisley
  • Sunday, March 17, Country: Eric Church

Several familiar faces return to the rodeo arena, including veterans like Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Bun B, and the Jonas Brothers. However, newcomers Oliver Anthony, Jelly Roll, and rapper 50 Cent are set to make their RodeoHouston debut.

The Houston Rodeo has a rich history of entertaining crowds since 1942, with legendary performers such as Selena, Beyoncé, Dolly Parton, George Strait, and Elvis Presley gracing its stage. This year’s lineup continues the tradition of bringing diverse musical talent to the forefront.

On weekdays, NRG Stadium gates open at 6 p.m., rodeo events kick off at 6:45 p.m., and the headlining act takes the stage around 9 p.m. Weekends offer an early start, with gates opening at 2 p.m., rodeo events commencing at 2:45 p.m., and the entertainer captivating the audience at approximately 5 p.m.

Tickets for each performance will be available in two waves, with Wave 1 tickets (Feb. 27–March 7 concerts) on sale at 10 a.m. and Wave 2 tickets (March 8–17 performances) available at 2 p.m. on January 18. Enthusiasts can secure their spots through the AXS waiting room, opening 30 minutes before each wave. For more ticket information, visit RodeoHouston’s official website. The countdown to this spectacular blend of rodeo excitement and musical prowess has officially begun!

End of an Era: Bill Belichick Bids Farewell to New England Patriots After 24 Seasons

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End of an Era: Bill Belichick Bids Farewell to New England Patriots After 24 Seasons

In a stunning announcement on Thursday, Bill Belichick, the iconic coach of the New England Patriots, revealed that he will no longer lead the team, concluding an unparalleled 24-season tenure. This decision comes on the heels of a historic career that included an unmatched six Super Bowl titles.

Belichick’s departure was marked by a news conference where Patriots owner Robert Kraft expressed mutual respect and admiration for the legendary coach. Kraft, calling Belichick the greatest coach of all time, stated during the conference that the decision was a mutual agreement between both parties, devoid of conflicts or disagreements.

“This is a move that we mutually agreed that is needed at this time,” Kraft affirmed. “What Bill accomplished, in my opinion, will never be duplicated.”

Belichick, with one year left on his contract, is set to part ways with the Patriots without the team seeking compensation. Expressing gratitude to Kraft and his family for the opportunity and support, Belichick said, “We had a vision of building a championship football team that has exceeded my wildest dreams and expectations.”

While Belichick expressed that he will “always be a Patriot,” the coach is eager to continue his career in coaching. Sources indicate that several NFL teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, may express interest in securing Belichick’s expertise.

Kraft acknowledged the difficulty in seeing Belichick in anything other than the signature cutoff hoodie on the sideline but wished him continued success, except when facing the Patriots.

As the Patriots navigate their first head-coaching search in 25 years, Jerod Mayo, the current linebackers coach and a rising coaching candidate, is seen as a leading contender. Mayo, who played for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015, signed a contract extension in the offseason and has been an assistant under Belichick since 2019.

In a surprising move, Kraft chose not to pursue a trade for Belichick, emphasizing that it was not right to treat the coach’s departure as a transaction. Kraft drew a parallel with Tom Brady’s departure to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, stating, “We’re looking for someone who can help us get back to the playoffs and win.”

Tom Brady, who achieved numerous successes under Belichick, took to Instagram to express his gratitude, calling him “the best coach in the history of the NFL” and acknowledging the amazing accomplishments they achieved together.

Belichick’s exit from New England coincided with the retirement of his close friend Nick Saban from Alabama, adding a symmetrical touch to the departures of two football legends, each considered the greatest coach in their respective domains. The parallel journeys of Saban and Belichick, marked by numerous championships and collaborations, contribute to a unique moment in football history as both coaching legends bid farewell to their longstanding roles within 24 hours.

Arctic Cold Front to Bring Freezing Weather Conditions

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Arctic Cold Front to Bring Freezing Weather Conditions

In a weather alert issued by the National Weather Service (NWS), an impending arctic cold front is set to sweep through the region on Saturday night, ushering in winter weather conditions. As temperatures are anticipated to plummet rapidly late Sunday afternoon, locals are urged to brace themselves for the first freezing weather of the season.

To safeguard against the impending chill, residents are advised to take proactive measures to protect the “Four P’s”: People, pets, pipes, and plants.

People:

  1. Keep warm and stay indoors whenever possible.
  2. If venturing outside, dress in layers, don hats, gloves, and appropriate coats.
  3. Avoid overexertion, as cold weather places added strain on the body.

Pets:

  1. Prolonged exposure to forecasted temperatures and wind can be fatal to unprotected livestock and pets.
  2. Bring pets indoors and relocate other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.
  3. Ensure adequate food and water availability for pets.

Pipes:

  1. Winterize exposed pipes and plumbing to prevent damage.
  2. Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain, and store in protected areas.
  3. Wrap exposed faucets and pipes, especially those in unheated spaces, to avoid freezing.
  4. When leaving town, shut off the main water supply and drain pipes to prevent burst damage.

Plants:

  1. Bring potted plants inside or store them in garages near interior walls for added warmth and wind protection.
  2. Apply extra mulch and consider covering cold-sensitive outdoor plants with cloth fabric to shield them from wind and frost.
  3. Tropical plants and vegetation require maximum freeze protection.

Heater Safety:

With the anticipated cold, portable space heaters may become essential. However, improper use can lead to fires, severe injuries, and even death. To ensure safety:

  1. Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable items.
  2. Place heaters on solid, non-flammable surfaces.
  3. Avoid blocking exits or creating obstacles with heaters.
  4. Keep children away from heaters.
  5. Plug heaters directly into wall outlets; never use extension cords.
  6. Turn off and unplug space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

Additionally, protect against carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing battery-operated CO detectors. Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.

For more information on preparing and staying safe during winter weather, visit ReadyHarris.org. Stay updated on power conditions at CenterPointEnergy.com and ERCOT.com. Be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and warm winter experience.

Father & son face new charges in San Antonio murder of Savanah Soto, boyfriend Matthew Guerra

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A 19-year-old and his father have been arrested in connection with the killings of a pregnant Texas teen and her boyfriend after their bodies were found last week in a car in San Antonio, authorities said Wednesday.

Christopher Preciado was arrested on suspicion of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Savanah Soto, who was nine months pregnant, and 22-year-old Matthew Guerra, the San Antonio Police Department said in a news release on Facebook.

Preciado’s father, Ramon Preciado, 53, was arrested on charges of abuse of a corpse, the release said, accused of helping his son “move the bodies.”

CNN is working to determine whether Christopher Preciado and Ramon Preciado have legal representation.

The younger Preciado is being held on $1 million bond, Bexar County court records show. Bond for his father was set at $100,000, with a hearing scheduled for February 6. There was no hearing date listed for Christopher Preciado.

“We do expect more charges to be pending,” San Antonio police Sgt. Washington Moscoso said at a news conference Wednesday night, adding the killings appeared “to be a narcotic-related deal that went bad.”

Detectives would work with the Bexar County District Attorney’s office to determine if there will be “any charges related to the unborn baby,” Moscoso said. The case had been listed as a capital murder “due to the death of an unborn child,” San Antonio police Lt. Michelle Ramos told CNN last week.

From left, Christopher Preciado, 19, and Ramon Preciado, 53.

From left, Christopher Preciado, 19, and Ramon Preciado, 53.San Antonio Police Department

The bodies of Soto and Guerra were found, each with a gunshot wound, in a car parked near a San Antonio apartment complex on December 26, police had said.

The bodies may have been there for “possibly three or four days,” Police Chief William McManus told reporters last week, describing the crime scene as “very, very perplexing.”

Soto, who was past her delivery date, was reported missing by her family when she missed an essential medical appointment, according to police in Leon Valley, Texas.

Guerra was Soto’s boyfriend, family members told CNN affiliate KSAT.

The arrests came days after San Antonio police asked for the public’s help finding “two persons of interest” seen in surveillance video that captured a pickup truck and the victims’ vehicle driving up to each other in the area where the bodies were found, then driving away.

“One of the key pieces of evidence that we did collect at the scene was Savanah’s cell phone. That was handed over to our technology team, who was able to download some information on there,” Moscoso told reporters Wednesday. Then with the help of federal investigators, “we were able to get enough information, and so that information was given to our detectives today,” Moscoso said.

The information pointed authorities to the possible location of the pickup truck and ultimately to the two suspects’ home, Moscoso said.

“The father answered the door — he knew why the police were there (and) cooperated fully with the investigation,” according to Moscoso.

Father and son were then interrogated by police, and detectives were able to get a warrant signed by a judge, Moscoso said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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