TOP STORY
Grid Operator Says Blackouts Unlikely This Christmas
Texas grid officials have indicated that, despite winter's chill, power outages are unlikely during this Christmas week. This reassurance brings relief after previous years' energy challenges during cold spells.
Knowing that blackouts are unlikely means you can enjoy your holiday with fewer worries about power disruptions. This stability helps in planning holiday gatherings, keeping homes warm, and avoiding emergency preparations. It also reflects improvements in the state's energy grid resilience, offering more peace of mind during winter's unpredictable weather.
Source: NWA Online
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Markets
Oil (WTI) | 58.3600 | ▼ 0.10% |
Gas (Nat.) | 3.7460 | ▼ 0.85% |
Cotton | 0.6378 / lb | • 0.00% |
Cattle | 2.2860 / lb | ▼ 0.12% |
S&P 500 | 6934.88 | ▲ 0.09% |
Dow Jones | 48738.97 | ▲ 0.11% |
Nasdaq | 23614.58 | ▲ 0.10% |
Last Time the Market Was This Expensive, Investors Waited 14 Years to Break Even
In 1999, the S&P 500 peaked. Then it took 14 years to gradually recover by 2013.
Today? Goldman Sachs sounds crazy forecasting 3% returns for 2024 to 2034.
But we’re currently seeing the highest price for the S&P 500 compared to earnings since the dot-com boom.
So, maybe that’s why they’re not alone; Vanguard projects about 5%.
In fact, now just about everything seems priced near all time highs. Equities, gold, crypto, etc.
But billionaires have long diversified a slice of their portfolios with one asset class that is poised to rebound.
It’s post war and contemporary art.
Sounds crazy, but over 70,000 investors have followed suit since 2019—with Masterworks.
You can invest in shares of artworks featuring Banksy, Basquiat, Picasso, and more.
24 exits later, results speak for themselves: net annualized returns like 14.6%, 17.6%, and 17.8%.*
My subscribers can skip the waitlist.
*Investing involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. Important Reg A disclosures: masterworks.com/cd.
Texas Grid & Weather Snapshot
Statewide Outage Count — today (from start of day to now): None.
City | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
Dallas | 81.3 | 59.4 |
Houston | 79.2 | 66.2 |
Austin | 80.1 | 63.5 |
San Antonio | 79.9 | 65.3 |
Alerts
Dallas: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Houston: A Dense Fog Advisory was issued on December 25 at 2:18 AM CST and remains in effect until 10:00 AM, according to NWS Houston/Galveston.
Austin: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
San Antonio: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Politics and Economy
Trump DOJ Targets States for Voter Data Access
The Trump-era Justice Department demands sensitive voter data from states, aiming to review and purge voter rolls—a move likely violating federal law and the Constitution. This unprecedented federal intervention raises concerns about election security ahead of 2026 and fuels fears of election interference.
This affects your personal voting information and the security of your vote long before you head to the polls. If your state shares this data, it could be vulnerable to misuse or hacking, putting your privacy at risk. It also means your state's control over election rolls is being challenged, which could lead to confusion or wrongful removal from voter lists. Staying informed about your registration and speaking up to election officials can help protect your rights.
Source: The Boston Globe
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What else is happening:
Brownsville's Catholic community highlights Bishop Daniel E. Flores conversational homilies and strong focus on the poor, shaping local outreach and responses to immigration challenges.
A petition drive fell short of the signatures needed to force a vote on the Vista Ridge water project, leaving opponents to pursue legal and outreach next steps.
Tech and Business
Virtual Reality Enhances Social Life for Older Adults
Virtual reality headsets are helping seniors in over 800 retirement communities rediscover adventure and combat social isolation. Programs let residents explore places like Europe or their childhood neighborhoods, boosting cognition and sparking new conversations among users.
If you have older family members, VR could be a game changer in how they stay mentally sharp and socially connected. It offers a fun, low-effort escape without leaving their living rooms, and even encourages new friendships and shared experiences. For seniors hesitant about technology, this could be a gentle introduction that brightens their day—and yours.
Source: AP News
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Federal Court Blocks Texas App Age Verification Law
A US federal court blocked Texas's law requiring age verification before downloading apps, stating it likely violated the First Amendment by imposing content-based speech restrictions. The court ruled the law was not the least restrictive means to address concerns over minors' app use and struck down vague provisions about liability and notifications.
If you're a Texas app user, this ruling means you won't have to verify your age before downloading apps or accessing paid content anytime soon. It keeps access smoother, especially for younger users balancing privacy and parental controls. The court's decision also highlights ongoing debates over protecting minors online without overstepping free speech rights, impacting how future digital laws could shape your app experience.
Source: Jurist
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What else is happening:
The AI talent wars have pushed top firms to pay interns record salaries, intensifying competition that could shift recruiting advantages toward Texas tech centers like Austin and Dallas.
SpaceX mafia startups are raising billions in venture capital as ex-employees launch companies across aerospace, AI, and health, altering regional startup ecosystems including Texas
A new study shows vehicle-to-home charging can let electric vehicles power homes and cut owners’ charging costs, offering resilience during Texas grid stress or storms.
Sports
A&M's Henry Secures 37th National Title
Texas A&M men's track and field captured the national championship, marking coach Pat Henry's 37th title. This milestone ranks as The Eagle’s No. 7 sports story of 2025, honoring a legendary career in Bryan-College Station and the Brazos Valley.
If you follow college sports or have ties to Texas A&M, this win highlights a legacy of success that shapes community pride and local sports culture. Coach Henry’s record speaks to the dedication and consistency behind these victories, inspiring young athletes and fans alike. This championship is more than a trophy—it’s a testament to years of hard work and Texas sporting tradition.
Source: The Eagle
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Sports Spotlight:
Christmas Day broadcast schedule lists the Cowboys-Commanders and Mavericks-Warriors games and provides local TV and radio information for Texas viewers in Thursday’s TV/Radio listings.
An MRI shows Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson avoided ligament damage but will miss multiple games, raising rotation questions as Denver prepares for upcoming matchups.
After Kawhi Leonard’s 41-point performance, the Clippers visit Portland where the Trail Blazers seek defensive adjustments in a pivotal Western Conference matchup in Los Angeles visits Portland.
Texas Cultural Insight
The city of Waco, Texas, is home to the Dr Pepper Museum, located at the site of the original Dr Pepper bottling plant. Founded in 1885 by pharmacist Charles Alderton, Dr Pepper is the oldest major soft drink brand in America — predating both Coca-Cola and Pepsi. The museum celebrates this uniquely Texan creation with historic exhibits, vintage bottles, and interactive experiences.