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TOP STORY
Rio Grande Transformed Into Militarized Border Zone
The Rio Grande Valley, once a place for community and nature, is now heavily militarized with border wall construction and patrols intensifying under President Trump’s recent term. Recent waivers bypass environmental and public access laws, disrupting local ecosystems and restricting river access for residents.
If you live near the Rio Grande, your daily connection to this historic river is fading. What used to be a place for family outings and wildlife is now patrolled by Border Patrol vehicles, with physical barriers and legal waivers cutting off river access and harming local habitats. This shift affects not only your recreation options but also raises concerns about environmental damage and community displacement along the border.
Source: The American Prospect
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Markets
Oil (WTI) | 59.9800 | ▼ 0.13% |
Gas (Nat.) | 5.3500 | ▲ 0.60% |
Cotton | 0.6435 / lb | ▼ 0.08% |
Cattle | 2.3300 / lb | ▼ 0.02% |
S&P 500 | 6875.48 | ▼ 0.02% |
Dow Jones | 49077.35 | ▼ 0.00% |
Nasdaq | 23224.32 | ▼ 0.04% |
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Grid & Weather Snapshot
Statewide Outage Count — today (from start of day to now): None.
City | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
Dallas | 60.1 | 41.9 |
Houston | 70.3 | 59.5 |
Austin | 70.2 | 53.8 |
San Antonio | 74.3 | 50.4 |
Alerts
Dallas: A Winter Storm Watch and an Extreme Cold Watch are in effect starting early January 22 and continuing through January 25–26, issued by NWS Fort Worth.
Houston: A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect through the morning of January 22, with Winter Storm and Extreme Cold Watches extending through January 25–26, issued by NWS Houston/Galveston.
Austin: A Winter Storm Watch begins January 22 alongside an Extreme Cold Watch lasting through January 26, issued by NWS Austin/San Antonio.
San Antonio: An Extreme Cold Watch remains in effect from January 21 through January 26, issued by NWS Austin/San Antonio.
Politics and Economy
Dallas residents dispute library closure plans
Dallas city officials face backlash over proposed library closures amid budget talks. Residents and council members criticize the lack of data and community input, highlighting Renner Frankford Library’s vital role for families and voting. The debate spotlights concerns over service cuts and inadequate analysis behind the city’s approach.
If you rely on Dallas libraries for childcare support, community programs, or even voting, these potential closures could disrupt your routine and access. Renner Frankford Library serves thousands and offers vital spaces beyond books—losing it would limit resources in neighborhoods that already lack community centers. Understanding how data informs these decisions helps you hold leaders accountable to protect your local services.
Source: Dallas News
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What else is happening:
Local officials and residents question a proposed ICE detention site near Oklahoma City, citing capacity, legal concerns, and potential cross-border impacts for neighboring states.
On the 1973 Roe v. Wade anniversary, the Supreme Court legalizes abortion retrospective notes its historic effects and the later legal reversal that reshaped state policies.
Nationwide enforcement shifts are highlighted in an AP News Summary outlining immigration actions in Maine and court rulings limiting police tactics in Minnesota.
Tech and Business
Wall Street pros embrace AI to boost productivity
Wall Street professionals are using AI tools to streamline tasks like summarizing books, preparing presentations, and organizing notes, though AI isn’t yet trusted for complex financial duties. Some firms even program AI agents mimicking top investors to gain fresh insights on stocks and markets.
If you work in finance or business, AI can save you hours on mundane work like note-taking or presentation prep. While it won’t replace expert judgment anytime soon, these tools help everyday tasks run smoother, freeing you to focus on decisions that really count. Expect more teams building custom AI assistants tailored to their unique workflows.
Source: Business Insider
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Austin’s Future Proof Brands cuts 158 jobs after Anheuser deal
Six weeks after Anheuser-Busch acquired a majority stake in Austin’s BeatBox beverage brand, parent company Future Proof Brands announced layoffs of 158 staffers by February 21. The company grew rapidly since its 2014 'Shark Tank' start and is now part of Anheuser-Busch’s expanding 'Beyond Beer' portfolio.
If you or someone you know works in Austin’s booming beverage scene, these layoffs may ripple through local job markets. While acquisitions often bring investment, they can also lead to restructuring and tighter roles. Keeping an eye on opportunities and networking within this evolving sector could be key to staying ahead.
Source: Austin American-Statesman
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What else is happening:
Robotics experts at a World Economic Forum Davos panel outlined automation trends that could transform manufacturing and logistics networks serving Texas energy and industrial hubs.
South Korea enacted a landmark comprehensive law to govern AI safety, setting precedents that may influence U.S. regulators and Texas companies deploying large language models.
Sports
Rashaun Agee Leads Texas A&M In Solid Win
Rashaun Agee scored 23 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and handed out five assists as Texas A&M defeated Mississippi State 88-68. The Aggies have won eight of their last nine games, consolidating their strong start in Southeastern Conference play.
If you follow Texas college basketball, Agee's all-around game means the Aggies are serious contenders this season. His consistent scoring and rebounding drive the team’s momentum, making games exciting and boosting local pride. Catching their Saturday matchup could be a great way to support home team success and see standout talent in action.
Source: Dallas News
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Sports Spotlight:
After Je'Shawn Stevenson scored 27 points in the win over UTSA, North Texas hosts East Carolina with the Mean Green looking to build conference momentum.
After Hannah Riddick scored 22 in a loss to Rice, Riddick leads Tulsa as the Golden Hurricane aim to climb the AAC standings in Friday's meeting.
Betting guides and odds in the AFC Championship Game betting preview offer Texans actionable picks and insights ahead of the Patriots-Broncos title matchup Sunday.
Texas Science & Space Fact
Texas is home to NASA’s primary human spaceflight operations center. Since 1965, Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston has guided every U.S. crewed space mission — from Apollo moon landings to today’s International Space Station operations. When astronauts speak to Earth, Texas is usually the first voice they hear.