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TOP STORY
Texas Man Avoids Jail in Child Sex Case Plea Deal
A Texas man charged with multiple child sexual assault felonies accepted a plea deal dropping nine charges in exchange for a five-year deferred probation sentence without jail time. The victim's family says they were blindsided by the decision from the Soros-backed Travis County prosecutor. The man must register as a sex offender and avoid contact with minors.
If you or your family live in Travis County, this case highlights the tensions surrounding how serious crimes are prosecuted locally. The lack of jail time for such severe allegations may affect your sense of security and trust in the justice system. It also underscores ongoing debates about criminal justice reform and victim advocacy in Texas communities. Staying informed can help you engage in these critical conversations and advocate for protective policies.
Source: Fox News
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Markets
Oil (WTI) | 60.7900 | ▲ 0.0165% |
Gas (Nat.) | 4.5310 | ▲ 0.1105% |
Cotton | 0.6378 / lb | ▼ 0.0157% |
Cattle | 2.2732 / lb | ▲ 0.1189% |
S&P 500 | 6848.0898 | ▼ 0.0121% |
Dow Jones | 47937.6602 | ▲ 0.0356% |
Nasdaq | 23473.1328 | ▼ 0.0225% |
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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 | 77.9 | 49.1 |
Houston | 80.8 | 59.0 |
Austin | 82.9 | 53.1 |
San Antonio | 82.9 | 51.6 |
Alerts
Dallas: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Houston: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Austin: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
San Antonio: No active Weatherbit or NWS alerts.
Politics and Economy
Texas Republican Fires Back at Trump's Latest Jab
Former Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan responded sharply to President Trump's criticism following his retirement announcement. The ongoing rivalry reflects deeper divisions within Texas Republicans, intensified by Trump's support for Phelan's primary challenger. This feud centers on Phelan’s role in the impeachment of AG Ken Paxton, a key Trump ally.
If you follow Texas politics, this clash signals how divided the GOP remains, affecting party unity and legislative priorities. Phelan’s retirement opens up his Texas House seat, shaking up local power dynamics and possibly shifting future policy directions. For residents, these internal battles influence the leadership shaping laws on voter integrity, education, and more — impacting your community’s political representation.
Source: News Week
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What else is happening:
Austin first responders voice frustration with city leaders after the release of a revised budget following Proposition Q’s rejection, citing concerns over its impact on public safety and essential city services.
As the government shutdown nears its end, disabled Texas families say the damage is already done, with halted federal aid dampening holiday hopes.
Texas Congressman Chip Roy slams a Senate GOP provision he calls self-serving, arguing it unfairly benefits Republicans under investigation as Congress moves to reopen the government.
Tech and Business
ZOQQ Expands Platform to Boost Global Business Payments
ZOQQ is enhancing its enterprise fintech platform, offering a unified set of API-driven solutions for multi-currency, card services, foreign exchange, and cross-border payments. This move aims to help businesses scale internationally with seamless financial tools.
If you run or work for a business handling payments across borders, ZOQQ's upgraded platform could make a big difference. Processing multiple currencies and managing cross-border transactions often slow growth, but with these API-driven tools, you can speed up payments and reduce friction. This can help your company move faster in global markets and simplify daily financial operations.
Source: Weatherford Democrat
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Austin First Responders Criticize Revised City Budget
Following the rejection of Proposition Q by voters, Austin's first responders express frustration with the revised city budget. The budget raises funding slightly but falls short of meeting emergency services' expanding needs, raising concerns about response times.
If you're in Austin, changes in the city budget could affect your emergency response times. First responders are worried the cuts and limits on overtime might slow down help in fires or medical emergencies. That could have real consequences for your safety and peace of mind. As city leaders revisit plans, these budget decisions will directly impact how reliable and fast emergency services remain in your neighborhood.
Source: Fox 7 Austin
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What else is happening:
Asian stocks edge higher on optimism surrounding a potential end to the U.S. government shutdown and expectations of another Federal Reserve rate cut, boosting global market confidence.
West Texas Intermediate crude rises above $60.50 per barrel, reflecting investor optimism tied to signs of a U.S. government reopening and stabilizing demand.
Ongoing FAA flight cutbacks amid the shutdown have caused over 9,000 cancellations nationwide, disrupting travel plans and straining airline operations.
Sports
San Antonio Spurs Seek Sixth Straight Home Win
The San Antonio Spurs aim to extend their undefeated home streak to six games as they face the Golden State Warriors. This marks their first meeting this season. Spurs have been strong at home with a 5-0 record, while Golden State struggles on the road at 1-6.
If you’re in San Antonio, the Spurs’ home success means exciting nights of basketball with a team on a roll. Watching them maintain a winning streak creates buzz and brings the community together. For fans, these matchups highlight top Western Conference competition and potential playoff momentum.
Source: AP News
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Sports Spotlight:
Keon Thompson led Stephen F. Austin to an 81-69 win over Rice, driving decisive scoring runs and a tough defensive display in Texas college basketball Stephen F. Austin over Rice.
Roope Hintz sealed the Dallas Stars’ thrilling comeback with an overtime winner, lifting the team to a 3-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators in an intense NHL matchup.
Texas Tech fell short on the road against No. 14 Illinois despite JT Toppin’s standout performance, as the Red Raiders narrowly missed completing their comeback.
Texas Heritage Insight
The iconic Texan phrase “Don’t mess with Texas” began not as a slogan for state pride—but as an anti-littering campaign by the Texas Department of Transportation in 1985. It stuck far beyond its original intent, transforming into one of the most recognized symbols of Lone Star toughness.