TOP STORY
New invasive pest threatens Texas grazing and livestock

Texas officials warn that the pasture mealybug, a pest never before seen in North America, is spreading across more than 20 counties. It damages grass vital to hay production and cattle feed, posing risks to livestock operations statewide.
If you rely on Texas grazing lands or livestock products, this pest could affect costs and availability of feed and meat. The bug weakens grasses fundamental for cattle nutrition, so ranchers may face tougher times ahead. Early detection and reporting are key to protecting your local farming community and preserving food supplies you depend on.
Source: Fox News
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Markets
Oil (WTI) | 57.5200 | ▼ 0.09% |
Gas (Nat.) | 4.2130 | ▲ 0.38% |
Cotton | 0.6412 / lb | ▲ 0.30% |
Cattle | 2.3095 / lb | ▼ 0.02% |
S&P 500 | 6902.10 | ▲ 0.10% |
Dow Jones | 48707.79 | ▼ 0.02% |
Nasdaq | 23597.26 | ▲ 0.12% |
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Texas Grid & Weather Snapshot
Statewide Outage Count — today (from start of day to now): None.
City | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
Dallas | 69.6 | 44.2 |
Houston | 76.1 | 56.5 |
Austin | 74.3 | 48.2 |
San Antonio | 73.2 | 50.4 |
Alerts
Dallas: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Houston: A Dense Fog Advisory was issued on December 12 at 4:59 AM CST and remains in effect until 9:00 AM, according to NWS Houston/Galveston.
Austin: A Dense Fog Advisory was issued on December 12 at 3:05 AM CST and remains in effect until 9:00 AM, and a Special Weather Statement was issued at 1:11 AM, according to NWS Austin/San Antonio.
San Antonio: A Dense Fog Advisory was issued on December 12 at 3:05 AM CST and remains in effect until 9:00 AM, and a Special Weather Statement was issued at 1:11 AM, according to NWS Austin/San Antonio.
Politics and Economy
Texans Voice Concerns Over Affordability and Civility

Letters highlight Texans struggling with rising costs on groceries and family essentials amid silent congressional action. Criticism extends to political discourse, with calls for civility and attention to wildlife disease threats impacting rural economies. These voices underscore widespread frustration with economic burdens and deteriorating public conversation.
You’re probably feeling it when your grocery bill spikes or essential items like diapers become harder to afford — these letters remind us it’s a reality for many Texans. As political leaders spar without reigning in prices or modeling respectful discourse, your daily life and community wellbeing can suffer. The warnings on wildlife disease show how local economies tied to hunting and outdoor culture might face bigger challenges ahead unless action is taken.
Source: Dallas News
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What else is happening:
Texas voters hear contrasting views as a Dallas congresswoman confronts Donald Trump amid calls to end the harsh tone in politics as a blood sport.
Discussions about Texas candidates, taxation, and higher education mobility capture regional concerns in this Letters to the Editor.
The Department of the Interior plans to transfer public land in Imperial County for a National Defense Area, impacting federal and military land use policies.
Tech and Business
Tech Job Market Faces Toughest Year in Decade

Big Tech layoffs at Amazon, Microsoft, and others fueled fierce competition in 2025. With over 154,000 tech layoffs and fewer job openings, candidates face stiff challenges landing roles despite strong experience and skills.
If you work in tech, this means the job search can be exhausting and financially stressful. Many are tapping savings or considering moves to lower-cost areas while rethinking career paths beyond Big Tech giants. It’s a crowded, slow hiring landscape where even highly qualified professionals struggle to stand out.
Source: Business Insider
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RH Reports Revenue Growth but Earnings Miss Estimates

RH posted Q3 2025 revenue of $883.81 million, up 8.9% year-over-year, slightly surpassing expectations. However, EPS dropped to $1.71 from $2.48, missing estimates by nearly 20%. The company expanded its store count amid mixed financial results.
For shoppers and investors, RH’s growth shows demand remains solid even as profit pressures mount. The expanding gallery count suggests the brand is investing in physical retail experiences that could influence shopping choices. Watching how RH navigates rising costs could guide your spending or investment decisions.
Source: Head Topics
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What else is happening:
A trustee sale notice details key information about the property at 211 WEST PAUL AVE and provides legal context in this public notice.
Houston Cougars travel to New Mexico for their first season meeting in a non-conference matchup, aiming to improve road performance in this women's college basketball contest.
The Dallas Morning News offers numerous chances to participate in exciting contests through their Enter to Win Giveaways program.
Sports
Stars Aim to Extend Home Win Streak Against Panthers

The Dallas Stars, holding a strong 21-6-5 record, will host the Florida Panthers as they try to maintain a four-game home winning streak. The Panthers, 15-13-2 overall, won their last matchup in a shootout. Key players like Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston lead the Stars' charge, while the Panthers rely on Anton Lundell and Carter Verhaeghe.
If you’re a Stars fan in Dallas, this game is a perfect chance to catch your team riding high at home. The Stars are especially strong when they score on power plays, so watching them keep that momentum can energize your weekend plans. Whether you follow road games or love the fast pace of NHL hockey, this matchup adds some thrilling local sports excitement to your Saturday night.
Source: AP News
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Sports Spotlight:
The Oklahoma City Thunder face the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup semifinals, highlighting a key Texas-related basketball rivalry with high stakes in the NBA Cup semifinals.
No. 16 Texas Tech hosts No. 17 Arkansas at American Airlines Center, emphasizing a crucial college basketball contest between top-ranked teams in Dallas, Texas.
Prairie View A&M prepares to face the UTSA Roadrunners following a strong individual performance, marking an important upcoming match in Texas collegiate basketball.
Texas Cultural Insight
The Texas State Fair’s Big Tex — the iconic 55-foot talking cowboy — debuted in 1952. Originally 49 feet tall as part of an exhibit called “The Big Texan Village,” he quickly became the official fair greeter and was rebuilt after a fire in 2012 with modern safety features and an even bigger presence.


