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What Is a FICO Score and How Does ItAffect Your Credit?

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What Is a FICO Score and How Does ItAffect Your Credit?

By: Michael Esparza

If you have ever applied for a loan, a credit card, or any other form of credit, you have probably heard of the term FICO score. But what exactly is a FICO score and why is it important for your financial health?

A three-digit FICO score, often simply referred to as a credit score, is a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness. It is a crucial financial metric that lenders, creditors, and financial institutions use to assess the risk associated with lending money or extending credit to consumers. The term “FICO” is an acronym derived from the company that developed this scoring model, the Fair Isaac Corporation.

FICO scores range from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better credit. A FICO score of 670 to 739 is generally considered good credit, while a score of 740 to 850 is considered excellent credit. Lenders use FICO scores to help them decide whether to approve your loan application and what interest rate to charge you. A higher FICO score can help you qualify for lower interest rates and better loan terms.

FICO scores are based on five main factors that reflect your credit behavior:

  • Payment History (35%): This is the most significant factor in assessing whether you have made on-time payments on your credit accounts, such as loans and credit cards.
  • Credit Utilization/Amounts Owed (30%): This factor examines the amount of credit you are currently using compared to your total available credit limits. Lower utilization rates are generally better for your score.
  • Length of Credit History (15%): Longer credit histories tend to have a positive impact on your score.
  • Credit Mix (10%): Having a diverse mix of credit types, such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages, can positively impact your score.
  • New Credit (10%): Opening multiple new credit accounts in a short period can negatively affect your score.

Each factor has a different impact on your FICO score depending on your overall credit profile. For example, if you have a long and positive credit history, a few late payments may not hurt your score as much as if you have a short and negative credit history. You can check your FICO score for free once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus. You can also get your FICO score from many lenders and credit card companies.

Here are some tips for improving your FICO score:

  • Pay your bills on time and in full every month.
  • Keep your credit utilization low. This means using less than 30% of your available credit.
  • Keep your credit history long. Avoid opening too many new credit accounts in a short period of time.
  • Have a mix of different types of credit.
  • Check your credit reports regularly for errors and dispute them if you find any.

A FICO score is a key indicator of your financial health and reputation. By understanding what it is and how it works, you can take charge of your credit and achieve your financial goals. Improving your FICO score can take time, but it is worth it in the long run. A good FICO score can help you qualify for lower interest rates on loans and credit cards, save money on insurance premiums, and get approved for apartments and housing. Maintaining a good credit score can open doors to better financial opportunities, while a poor score can limit access to credit and lead to less favorable terms and higher borrowing costs. Therefore, understanding and managing your credit responsibly is essential for your financial well-being.

ERCOT Expresses Gratitude as Texas Residents’ Conservation Efforts Navigate Record-Breaking Peak Times

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ERCOT Expresses Gratitude as Texas Residents’ Conservation Efforts Navigate Record-Breaking Peak Times

The recent conservation appeal in Texas concluded after residents willingly held back power consumption for two consecutive days during early morning hours, contributing to grid reliability during record-breaking peak times. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) expressed gratitude towards the efforts of Texas residents and businesses, acknowledging their collaboration in managing energy demands.

In a statement, ERCOT conveyed, “Thank you to Texas residents and businesses. Your conservation efforts, along with additional grid reliability tools, helped us get through record-breaking peak times (Tuesday) and (Monday) morning.” Despite the conservation appeal officially ending at 9 a.m., ERCOT emphasized the continuation of an ERCOT Weather Watch through Wednesday, serving as an advance notification of anticipated significant weather with high energy demand.

During an interview with ABC13’s Nick Natario on Monday, ERCOT CEO Pablo Vegas acknowledged the elevated risk associated with extreme weather events, highlighting the severity of one of the coldest winter weather events in Texas. Vegas affirmed ERCOT’s commitment to doing everything possible to maintain power supply amidst challenging conditions.

While the conservation appeal ceased at 9 a.m., ERCOT urged residents to sustain electricity conservation efforts between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Tuesday due to ongoing freezing weather in the Houston area. ERCOT’s online tracker indicated yellow grid conditions early Tuesday morning, signifying some strain on the grid. However, by the appeal’s expiration at 9 a.m., conditions had returned to the green, indicating normal grid operations.

Vegas disclosed ongoing collaborative efforts with transmission utility companies over the past few years to implement controlled outages, ensuring that electricity interruptions are minimized during adverse conditions. Residents were encouraged to monitor grid conditions on the ERCOT website for real-time updates.

Addressing potential outages, ERCOT clarified that any disruptions were local in nature and unrelated to grid reliability. As Texas navigates through challenging winter weather, the collaborative efforts of residents and ERCOT’s strategic measures continue to play a crucial role in sustaining power reliability.

Houston Texans Face Tough Challenge Against Top-Seeded Baltimore Ravens in AFC Divisional Round

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Houston Texans Face Tough Challenge Against Top-Seeded Baltimore Ravens in AFC Divisional Round

The Houston Texans secured a dominant victory over the Cleveland Browns in their postseason opener, setting the stage for a more challenging matchup in the AFC divisional round against the Baltimore Ravens. The Texans, seeded fourth, were initially slated to face the Kansas City Chiefs had the Pittsburgh Steelers won on Monday. However, the Buffalo Bills’ triumph over the Steelers altered the Texans’ course, leading them to a showdown with the top-seeded Ravens.

The Ravens, boasting the NFL’s best regular-season record at 13-4 and a formidable scoring defense of 16.5 points per game, present a significant hurdle for the Texans. Houston aims to reach the conference championship round for the first time in franchise history.

Key information for fans ahead of the playoff clash:

NFL Playoff Bracket: AFC

  • 4) Houston Texans at 1) Baltimore Ravens
    1. Kansas City Chiefs at 2) Buffalo Bills

Kickoff Time and TV Info:

  • The Texans-Ravens game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. CT on Saturday at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
  • ABC and ESPN will broadcast the game, with live streaming available on ESPN+.

Previous Meeting: In Week 1, the Texans faced the Ravens, keeping it close in the first half but ultimately falling short with a 25-9 loss. Despite limiting MVP favorite Lamar Jackson to 207 total yards and securing an interception, the Texans struggled as Baltimore rushed for three touchdowns, while Houston’s offensive production was limited to three field goals.

By the Numbers: Houston Texans

  • Scoring offense: No. 13
  • Total offense: No. 12
  • Scoring defense: No. 11
  • Total defense: No. 14
  • Turnover differential: No. 5 (tied)

Baltimore Ravens

  • Scoring offense: No. 4
  • Total offense: No. 6
  • Scoring defense: No. 1
  • Total defense: No. 6
  • Turnover differential: No. 1 (tied)

The Texans face a formidable test against the Ravens, and fans eagerly anticipate an intense battle as Houston strives to make franchise history in the pursuit of the conference championship.

Man accused of killing missing mom who was witness in murder case, Texas cops say

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Man accused of killing missing mom who was witness in murder case, Texas cops say
from Instagram.

A man is accused of killing a 22-year-old Texas mother, and witness in a murder case, who went missing near her place of work in Houston, according to investigators.

Friends and family called Deundrea Ford reliable, police said in Harris County court documents filed Jan. 11. When she disappeared without a word, it quickly became clear that something was wrong — she would never be apart from her 4-year-old son for long, family told police.

Ford was a witness in a murder case in which a man riding in a vehicle with her was fatally shot in May, KHOU reported.

According to court documents in that case, a text message between two suspects implied Ford’s life was in danger, saying “She ain’t safe in Houston … at all,” KTRK reported.

Ford was working at Divas Bikini Sports Bar and Grill at about 1 a.m., Sept. 22, when she encountered the man police say would soon kill her, investigators said. Cameras captured her talking to Yoland Washington, a 51-year-old New Jersey man, before getting into a white van parked outside, police said, adding that it was the last time she was seen.

Her boyfriend was going to pick her up, but at 1:34 a.m. she texted him to say she had found a “date,” according to investigators. He texted her back but the message was left unread, and he went to the club at 2:23 a.m. to look for her.

One minute before the boyfriend arrives, police say Washington can be seen pulling out of the parking lot and driving away.

Investigators spoke with Washington several days later, according to police. He said the reason she was never seen getting out of his van is because he dropped her off at another location.

Ford’s body still hasn’t been found, but during a search of Washington’s van police used a chemical that reacts with blood, which “illuminated” spots all over the the interior, spanning from the back back doors to the driver seat. Using a DNA sample from Ford’s son, investigators say they found “DNA consistent with (Ford) … mixed with (Washington’s) DNA on 3 of the blood stains” on a shirt he wore the night of Ford’s disappearance.

Investigators say Washington has “an extensive history of violent offenses against women.”

Washington’s “account is also suspicious, and some of it is clearly a lie,” police said, adding that video surveillance and Google location data contradict parts of Washington’s story.

Washington is charged with murder.

Police did not say whether they believe Ford’s killing is related to her being a witness in a separate murder investigation.

What we know about the drownings of 3 Mexican migrants in Eagle Pass, Texas

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What we know about the drownings of 3 Mexican migrants in Eagle Pass, Texas

The drowning deaths of a woman and two children from Mexico near the US-Mexico border have magnified the rift between Texas and federal officials over who has jurisdiction in that part of the Rio Grande area and how to tackle the migrant crisis.

The tragedy happened days after state authorities blocked the US Border Patrol from accessing 2.5 miles of the US-Mexico border near Eagle Pass, Texas – which was recently the epicenter of the migrant crisis. The area includes Shelby Park, a city park on the Rio Grande that Texas authorities blocked off with fencing, gates and razor wire – effectively denying access to federal border patrol agents.

But whether a lack of access may have played a role in the deaths is in dispute.

On Monday, authorities with Mexico’s National Institute of Migration identified the deceased as Victerma de la Sancha Cerros, 33; Yorlei Rubi, 10; and Jonathan Agustín Briones de la Sancha, 8.

And new details have emerged from a US Supreme Court filing – part of the Biden administration’s ongoing legal battle against Texas to regain access to the border area.

Here’s what we know and what’s still unclear:

What federal officials say happened

Around 9 p.m. Friday, “Mexican officials advised Border Patrol of two migrants in distress on the U.S. side of the river in the area near the Shelby Park boat ramp,” a US Customs and Border Protection lead field coordinator wrote in the Supreme Court filing. “Mexican officials also informed Border Patrol that three migrants – one woman and two children – had drowned at approximately 8:00 p.m. in the same area.”

Prior to the filing, Democratic US Rep. Henry Cuellar said in a social media post that six migrants were reported to be in distress.

A Border Patrol agent went to an entrance gate at Shelby Park and informed Texas National Guard members there of the distress call, according to the filing.

“Speaking through the closed gate, the guardsmen refused to let the (Border Patrol agent) enter because they had been ordered not to allow Border Patrol access to the park,” the filing says.

The Border Patrol agent also spoke with the guardsmen’s supervisor over the phone but was again denied access, according to the filing. The supervisor conveyed that Border Patrol is not permitted to enter the area “even in emergency situations” and guardsmen would be sent to investigate, the filing says.

The next day, Mexican officials confirmed to Border Patrol that they had recovered three drowned bodies and rescued two distressed migrants and another two migrants who had attempted to cross in the night, according to the filing.

The US Department of Homeland Security confirmed the deaths and said Border Patrol agents were stopped from assisting at the border.

“In responding to a distress call from the Mexican government, Border Patrol agents were physically barred by Texas officials from entering the area,” a DHS spokesperson told CNN in a Saturday statement. “The Texas governor’s policies are cruel, dangerous, and inhumane, and Texas’s blatant disregard for federal authority over immigration poses grave risks.”

“Texas officials blocked US Border Patrol agents from doing their job and allowed two children to drown in the Rio Grande,” US Rep. Joaquin Castro, another Texas Democrat, said in a statement Saturday.

What Texas authorities say happened

But the Texas Military Department said by the time Border Patrol agents requested access to the site Friday night, “the drownings had occurred, Mexican authorities were recovering the bodies, and Border Patrol expressed these facts to the TMD personnel on site.”

The Texas Military Department Saturday said it was contacted by Border Patrol at 9 p.m. Friday about a “migrant distress situation” and searched the river with lights and night vision goggles, but “no migrants were observed.”

About 45 minutes later, Mexican authorities were seen responding to an incident on the Mexican side of the riverbank, said the Texas Military Department, which then “reported their observations back to Border Patrol, and they confirmed that the Mexican authorities required no additional assistance,” according to its statement.

“At no time did TMD security personnel along the river observe any distressed migrants, nor did TMD turn back any illegal immigrants from the US during this period,” the Texas Military Department said. “Also, at no point was TMD made aware of any bodies in the area of Shelby Park, nor was TMD made aware of any bodies being discovered on the US side of the border regarding this situation.”

EAGLE PASS, TEXAS - JANUARY 12: National Guard soldiers stand guard on the banks of the Rio Grande river at Shelby Park on January 12, 2024 in Eagle Pass, Texas. The Texas National Guard continues its blockade and surveillance of Shelby Park in an effort to deter illegal immigration. The Department of Justice has accused the Texas National Guard of blocking Border Patrol agents from carrying out their duties along the river. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

National Guard soldiers stand guard Friday on the banks of the Rio Grande at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Texas.Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Mexico’s foreign ministry speaks out

Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its condolences over the deaths of the migrants in a statement released Sunday by the Mexican Consulate in Eagle Pass.

Mexico’s Beta Groups – part of the National Institute of Migration of Mexico dedicated to protecting the human rights of migrants and specializing in rescues and first aid – and the Mexican National Guard recovered the bodies from Mexico, the statement said. Two other Mexicans were rescued.

Apprehensions increase near Eagle Pass

After a significant decrease in migrant encounters earlier this month, migrant apprehensions in the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector have increased since last week, according to a law enforcement source familiar with the operations. Eagle Pass is located in the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector.

Smugglers are pushing large groups of migrants to cross the Rio Grande through residential areas and places west of Eagle Pass – which are outside the river area taken over by Texas, the source said. This geographic shift in the flow of migrants creates a new challenge for federal border authorities because there is no infrastructure in these areas, especially as temperatures dip in the overnight hours, the source said.

About 1,000 migrant apprehensions took place Sunday in the Del Rio Sector, compared to between 500 and 600 earlier in the week, according to the source.

The number of migrant apprehensions on Friday and Saturday were 659 and 624, respectively, the source said.

The rift between Texas and the feds

Tensions have been high between the state and federal officials as the Biden Administration has challenged the policies of Texas’ Republican governor, including the use of razor wire along the border and a new law that makes entering Texas illegally a state crime.

On Friday, the Biden administration complained to the US Supreme Court about the state blocking Border Patrol from the Shelby Park area and asked the high court to quickly intervene. On Saturday, Texas told the high court it was “working promptly” to ensure Border Patrol has access to a boat ramp at Shelby Park.

In the deadly weekend incident, “Border Patrol specifically requested access to the park to secure two additional migrants that were presumed to have traveled with the deceased, though had crossed to the boat ramp,” the agency said Sunday night. “Two migrants were apprehended by (the Texas Military Department), with one turned over to (the state Department of Public Safety) and the other transferred to EMS in response to initial hypothermic conditions.”

But the Biden administration said in its Monday court filing that the two migrants were rescued by Mexican officials.

On Saturday, Texas began allowing Border Patrol limited access to the Shelby Park boat ramp area and another port of entry gate, according to the filing. A Border Patrol agent was also able to enter the restricted area Monday and drive onto an access road, the document notes.

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection said CBP was “saddened by tragic migrant drownings in Eagle Pass.”

“We remain gravely concerned by actions that prevent the US Border Patrol from performing their essential missions of arresting individuals who enter the United States unlawfully and providing humanitarian response to individuals in need,” the spokesperson said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s office and the Texas Department of Public Safety both referred CNN to the Texas National Guard for further information. But Abbott has defended the state’s action to seize control of land at the US-Mexico border.

“Texas has the legal authority to control ingress and egress into any geographic location in the state of Texas. And that authority is being asserted with regard to that park in Eagle Pass, Texas, to maintain operational control of it,” Abbott said at a press briefing Friday, before the drownings took place.

On Sunday, the White House called the recent migrant deaths “tragic” and characterized Abbott’s directives on the border as “political stunts,” according to Angelo Fernández Hernández, White House assistant press secretary.

“While we continue to gather facts about the circumstances of these tragic deaths, one thing is clear,” Fernández Hernández told CNN in a statement. “Gov. Abbott’s political stunts are cruel, inhumane, and dangerous. US Border Patrol must have access to the border to enforce our laws.”

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNN’s Caroll Alvarado, Sara Weisfeldt, Ashley Killough, Karol Suarez and Jennifer Deaton contributed to this report.

See who won at the Golden Globes

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See who won at the Golden Globes


The 80th Golden Globes Awards were presented Tuesday in Los Angeles.

ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” and HBO’s “The White Lotus” were some of the big TV winners of the night, and in film, “The Banshees of Inisherin” and “The Fabelmans” walked away with two of the most coveted awards of the night.

See below for a full list of nominees with the winners, indicated in bold.

TELEVISION

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy

Donald Glover, “Atlanta”

Bill Hader, “Barry”

Steve Martin, “Only Murders in the Building”

Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”

Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear” *WINNER

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy

Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary” *WINNER

Kaley Cuoco, “The Flight Attendant”

Selena Gomez, “Only Murders in the Building”

Jenna Ortega, “Wednesday”

Jean Smart, “Hacks”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama

Jeff Bridges, “The Old Man”

Kevin Costner, “Yellowstone” *WINNER

Diego Luna, “Andor”

Bob Odenkirk, “Better Call Saul”

Adam Scott, “Severance”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Drama

Emma D’Arcy, “House of the Dragon”

Laura Linney, “Ozark”

Imelda Staunton, “The Crown”

Hilary Swank, “Alaska Daily”

Zendaya, “Euphoria” *WINNER

Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Taron Egerton, “Black Bird”

Colin Firth, “The Staircase”

Andrew Garfield, “Under the Banner of Heaven”

Evan Peters, “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” *WINNER

Sebastian Stan, “Pam and Tommy”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Jessica Chastain, “George and Tammy”

Julia Garner, “Inventing Anna”

Lily James, “Pam and Tommy”

Julia Roberts, “Gaslit”

Amanda Seyfried, “The Dropout” *WINNER

Best Television Series Drama

“Better Call Saul”

“The Crown”

“House of the Dragon” *WINNER

“Ozark”

“Severance”

Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

“Black Bird”

“Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”

“Pam and Tommy”

“The Dropout”

“The White Lotus” *WINNER

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical-Comedy or Drama Television Series

Elizabeth Debicki, “The Crown”

Hannah Einbinder, “Hacks”

Julia Garner, “Ozark” *WINNER

Janelle James, “Abbott Elementary”

Sheryl Lee Ralph, “Abbott Elementary”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical-Comedy or Drama Television Series

John Lithgow, “The Old Man”

Jonathan Pryce, “The Crown”

John Turturro, “Severance”

Tyler James Williams, “Abbott Elementary” *WINNER

Henry Winkler, “Barry”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Jennifer Coolidge, “The White Lotus” *WINNER

Claire Danes, “Fleishman Is in Trouble”

Daisy Edgar-Jones, “Under the Banner of Heaven”

Niecy Nash-Betts, “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”

Aubrey Plaza, “The White Lotus”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

F. Murray Abraham, “The White Lotus”

Domhnall Gleeson, “The Patient”

Paul Walter Hauser, “Black Bird” *WINNER

Richard Jenkins, “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”

Seth Rogen, “Pam and Tommy”

Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy

“Abbott Elementary” *WINNER

“The Bear”

“Hacks”

“Only Murders in the Building”

“Wednesday”

FILM

Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy

“Babylon”

“The Banshees of Inisherin” *WINNER

“Everything Everywhere All at Once”

“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery”

“Triangle of Sadness”

Best Motion Picture – Drama

“Avatar: The Way of Water”

“Elvis”

“The Fabelmans” *WINNER

“TAR”

“Top Gun: Maverick”

Best Motion Picture – Foreign Language

“RRR” (India)

“All Quiet on the Western Front” (Germany)

“Argentina, 1985” (Argentina) *WINNER

“Close” (Belgium)

“Decision to Leave” (South Korea)

Best Screenplay – Motion Picture

Todd Field, “Tár”

Tony Kushner & Steven Spielberg, “The Fabelmans”

Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert, “Everything Everywhere All at Once”

Martin McDonagh, “The Banshees of Inisherin,” *WINNER

Sarah Polley, “Women Talking”

Best Original Song – Motion Picture

“Carolina,” Taylor Swift (“Where the Crawdads Sing”)

“Ciao Papa,” Guillermo del Toro & Roeban Katz (“Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio”)

“Hold My Hand,” Lady Gaga and Bloodpop (“Top Gun: Maverick”)

“Lift Me Up,” Tems, Ludwig Göransson, Rihanna and Ryan Coogler (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”)

“Naatu Naatu,” Kala Bhairava, M. M. Keeravani, Rahul Sipligunj (“RRR”) *WINNER

Best Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture

Brendan Gleeson, “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Barry Keoghan, “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Brad Pitt, “Babylon”

Ke Huy Quan, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” *WINNER

Eddie Redmayne, “The Good Nurse”

Best Actress in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture

Angela Bassett, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” *WINNER

Kerry Condon, “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Jamie Lee Curtis, “Everything Everywhere All at Once”

Dolly De Leon, “Triangle of Sadness”

Carey Mulligan, “She Said”

Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy

Diego Calva, “Babylon”

Daniel Craig, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery”

Adam Driver, “White Noise”

Colin Farrell, “The Banshees of Inisherin” *WINNER

Ralph Fiennes, “The Menu”

Best Motion Picture – Animated

“Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” *WINNER

“Marcel the Shell With Shoes On”

“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”

“Turning Red”

Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama

Austin Butler, “Elvis” *WINNER

Brendan Fraser, “The Whale”

Hugh Jackman, “The Son”

Bill Nighy, “Living”

Jeremy Pope, “The Inspection”

Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama

Cate Blanchett, “Tár” *WINNER

Olivia Colman, “Empire of Light”

Viola Davis, “The Woman King”

Ana de Armas, “Blonde”

Michelle Williams, “The Fabelmans”

Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy

Lesley Manville, “Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris”

Margot Robbie, “Babylon”

Anya Taylor-Joy, “The Menu”

Emma Thompson, “Good Luck to You Leo Grande”

Michelle Yeoh, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” *WINNER

Best Director – Motion Picture

James Cameron, “Avatar: The Way of Water”

Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, “Everything Everywhere All at Once”

Baz Luhrmann, “Elvis”

Martin McDonagh, “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Steven Spielberg, “The Fabelmans” *WINNER

Best Original Score

Alexandre Desplat, “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio”

Hildur Guðnadóttir, “Women Talking”

Justin Hurwitz, “Babylon” *WINNER

John Williams, “The Fabelmans”

Carter Burwell, “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Georgia DA Prosecuting Trump Speaks Out About Affair Allegations in Emotional Church Speech

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Georgia DA Prosecuting Trump Speaks Out About Affair Allegations in Emotional Church Speech

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis took the stage at Atlanta’s Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church on Sunday morning, delivering a heartfelt and passionate speech that seemed to acknowledge, for the first time, the affair allegations leveled against her last week. The event, held in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, provided Willis with a platform to address the controversy surrounding her, as well as to defend the special prosecutor she appointed for the election interference case against Donald Trump.

In her address, Willis humorously remarked, “I hope for y’all this week I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” The speech touched on the challenges she has faced as the Fulton County DA, addressing the recent affair allegations and the broader scrutiny she has encountered.

Former President Donald Trump’s co-defendant in the Georgia election interference case, Michael Roman, is seeking to dismiss the indictment against him and disqualify DA Willis. Roman alleges that Willis engaged in a romantic relationship with one of the top prosecutors she brought in for the case, potentially resulting in financial gain for both.

During her speech, Willis repeatedly referred to herself as “flawed” and “imperfect” while discussing the difficulties she has faced in her role. She emphasized feeling “isolation,” “loneliness,” and constant death threats that forced her out of her home. The emotional address included Willis reading a letter she wrote to God, expressing feelings of unworthiness for her position.

While not directly addressing the affair allegations, Willis defended the special prosecutor, Nathan Wade, without mentioning him by name. She highlighted his credentials and suggested that attacks on him were motivated by race. Willis questioned the criticism of bringing in multiple special prosecutors and emphasized that she paid them all the same hourly rate.

The court filing from Roman accuses Willis of potential fraudulent acts by failing to disclose the alleged relationship with Wade, asserting that she personally benefited from it. Trump’s attorney has indicated considering joining the complaint against Willis.

In response to Willis’s speech, Roman’s attorney, Ashleigh Merchant, pushed back against the suggestion that the allegations were racially motivated. She emphasized that the focus was on the alleged relationship and the financial arrangement with Wade.

The indictment against Roman, Trump, and others in the case involves charges related to their efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. Willis’s investigation has faced criticism from Trump, who views it as politically motivated. The developments in the case continue to unfold as the legal proceedings progress.

Iowa Caucuses Kick Off 2024 Republican Presidential Primary Amidst Frigid Weather

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Iowa Caucuses Kick Off 2024 Republican Presidential Primary Amidst Frigid Weather

As the Iowa caucuses unfold on Monday night, they mark the inaugural votes cast in the 2024 Republican presidential primary, setting the stage for a crucial political season.

In the prelude to the event, former President Donald Trump has established a commanding lead in polls, creating a significant presence in the race. The caucuses, slated to commence at 8 p.m. EST, will serve as the first litmus test for Republican contenders.

Challenging Trump’s dominance, the race for second place is notably contested between former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The dynamic field also includes biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who opted to suspend his campaign last Wednesday. (For an in-depth understanding of how caucuses function, refer to The Associated Press.)

The anticipation surrounding the caucuses is not only political but also meteorological, as frigid temperatures threaten to influence voter turnout. The National Weather Service has issued a wind chill warning, highlighting the possibility of temperatures feeling “in the 20s or 30s below zero, even during the day.”

Leading up to the caucuses, the region experienced extreme cold, high winds, and heavy snowfall. Trump, responding to the adverse weather conditions, canceled nearly all in-person events over the weekend but urged supporters to participate in the caucuses, stating, “even if you vote and then pass away.” Severe weather also prompted Haley and DeSantis to cancel or adjust their campaign events.

As Iowans gather to cast their votes, the outcome of the caucuses is eagerly awaited, setting the tone for the unfolding narrative in the 2024 Republican presidential primary. Stay tuned for updates as the political landscape takes shape amidst both political and meteorological challenges.

Houston-Area School Districts Extend Closures Amidst Arctic Blast and Frigid Conditions

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Houston-Area School Districts Extend Closures Amidst Arctic Blast and Frigid Conditions

Following the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Monday, several Houston-area school districts have announced additional closures for Tuesday due to the extreme cold caused by the Arctic blast.

Meteorologists are predicting a hard freeze on Tuesday, with temperatures plummeting into the 20s and teens. Southeast Texas is bracing for wind chill or “feels like temperatures” dipping into the teens or below. A Hard Freeze Warning is in effect from midnight Tuesday through 9 a.m. Wednesday for all of Southeast Texas, accompanied by a Wind Chill Advisory from 6 p.m. Monday through noon Tuesday.

Here is the latest list of school closings and delays for Tuesday, January 16, with updates expected throughout the day and night:

School Closings and Delays:

  • Aldine ISD: Closed on Tuesday, January 16, due to winter weather. District leaders will provide updates as needed.
  • Angleton ISD: All schools and facilities closed on Tuesday, January 16, due to potential icy weather and unsafe travel conditions. Athletic events scheduled for Tuesday are under review, and the school board meeting has been postponed to January 23.
  • Boling ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Brazosport College: Closed on Tuesday due to winter weather and hazardous road conditions.
  • Brazosport ISD: All schools and facilities closed on Tuesday; after-school activities canceled. Decisions for Wednesday will be made on Tuesday afternoon.
  • Cleveland ISD: Campuses and facilities closed on Tuesday; warming centers extended hours until 5 p.m. for enrolled students and their families.
  • Conroe ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Corrigan-Camden ISD: Delayed school start times to 10 a.m. in Polk County.
  • Cy Fair ISD: All classes and activities canceled on Tuesday.
  • Dayton ISD: No school or activities on Tuesday.
  • Goodrich ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Katy ISD: All campuses and facilities closed on Tuesday; all activities canceled. Anticipates school to resume on Wednesday, January 17.
  • Klein ISD: All schools and facilities closed on Tuesday; sponsored activities postponed or canceled for January 15 and 16.
  • Livingston ISD: Remain closed through Tuesday, January 16.
  • Lone Star College: All classes and activities canceled on Tuesday, January 16.
  • Montgomery ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • New Caney ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Onalaska ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Sealy ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Spring ISD: All schools and offices closed on Tuesday, January 16; no classes or after-school activities.
  • Tarkington ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Van Vleck ISD: School canceled on Tuesday.
  • Waller ISD: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Wharton County Junior College: Closed on Tuesday.
  • Willis ISD: All schools and offices closed on Tuesday due to icy roadways; updates for Wednesday will be provided by early afternoon/evening.

Parents, students, and staff are advised to stay tuned for further updates and changes in the forecast through official communication channels of their respective school districts. Stay safe and warm during these challenging weather conditions.

Warming Shelters Open Across Greater Houston Area

Que Onda Editorial
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Warming Shelters Open Across Greater Houston Area

As the Greater Houston area anticipates freezing temperatures from January 15 to 17, warming shelters are gearing up to provide refuge for local residents in need. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas has issued a news release, warning of the potential for higher electrical demand and lower reserves during this period.

To assist residents in preparing for the cold spell, here is a list of warming shelters across the Greater Houston area:

Brazoria County Library System Warming Shelters (Open from 8 a.m. on Jan. 16):

  • Alvin Branch Library, 105 S. Gordon St., Alvin
  • Angleton Branch Library, 401 E. Cedar St., Angleton
  • Brazoria Branch Library, 620 S. Brooks St., Brazoria
  • Clute Branch Library, 215 N. Shanks St., Clute
  • Freeport Branch Library, 410 Brazosport Blvd., Freeport
  • Lake Jackson Branch Library, 250 Circle Way St., Lake Jackson
  • Manvel Branch Library, 20514B Hwy. 6, Manvel
  • Pearland Tom Reid Branch Library, 3522 Liberty Drive, Pearland
  • West Pearland Branch Library, 11801 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland
  • Sweeny Branch Library, 205 W. Ashley Wilson Road, Sweeny
  • West Columbia Branch Library, 518 E. Brazos Ave., West Columbia

Fort Bend County Warming Shelters:

  • Attack Poverty-Friends of North Rosenberg, 1908 Ave. E., Rosenberg (6 p.m.-6 a.m. Jan. 14-16)
  • Albert George branch library, 9230 Gene St., Needville (regular operating hours)
  • Cinco Ranch branch library, 2620 Commercial Center Blvd., Katy (regular operating hours)
  • First Colony branch library, 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land (regular operating hours)
  • Fort Bend Family YMCA, 4433 Cartwright Road, Missouri City (regular operating hours)
  • Fulshear branch library, 6350 GM Library Road, Fulshear (regular operating hours)
  • George Memorial library, 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond (regular operating hours)
  • Mamie George library, 320 Dulles Ave., Stafford (regular operating hours)
  • Mission Bend branch library, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road, Houston (regular operating hours)
  • Missouri City branch library, 1530 Texas Parkway, Missouri City (regular operating hours)
  • Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch, 22807 Westheimer Parkway, Katy (regular operating hours)
  • Sienna branch library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd., Missouri City (regular operating hours)
  • Sugar Land branch library, 550 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land (regular operating hours)
  • University branch library, 14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land (regular operating hours)
  • Willie Melton Law Library, 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 20714, Richmond (regular operating hours)

Galveston County Warming Shelters:

  • McGuire Dent Recreation Center, 2222 28th St., Galveston (regular operating hours Jan. 16-17)
  • Salvation Army of Galveston County facility, 610 51st St., Galveston (regular operating hours Jan. 16-17)
  • Wright Cuney Recreation Center, 718 41st St., Galveston (beginning at 7 a.m. on Jan. 15 through Jan. 17)

City of Houston Warming Shelters (Open from 8 p.m. on Jan. 15):

  • Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery Road, Houston
  • Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center, 6402 Market St., Houston
  • Downtown Recovery Center, 150 Chenevert St., Houston
  • Fonde Community Center, 110 Sabine St., Houston
  • Metropolitan Multi-Service Center at W. Gray, 1745 W. Gray St., Houston
  • Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center, 4410 Reed Road, Houston
  • Lakewood Church, 3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston
  • Alief Family YMCA, 7850 Howell Sugar Land Road, Houston
  • All YMCA of Greater Houston locations (during normal business hours)
  • All Harris County Public Library branches, community centers, and multiservice centers (during normal business hours)

Residents in need of assistance can arrange free rides to the warming centers through the city of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management website. Additionally, the city’s shelters are pet-friendly, providing kennels for pets upon arrival.

For more information on city of Houston warming centers, residents can call 311 or visit www.houstontx.gov/311. Stay warm and safe during the cold spell!

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