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Paxton Sues Dallas Over Alleged Police Funding Shortfall After Voter-Approved Measure

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Dallas is facing a legal challenge from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who alleges the city is failing to adequately fund its police department as mandated by a voter-approved measure. The lawsuit, filed Friday, centers on Proposition U, a public safety initiative passed in November 2024, and marks the latest development in an ongoing debate over resource allocation within the city.

Proposition U requires the city to dedicate at least 50% of any novel annual revenue to police and fire pensions, and to use remaining funds to increase the number of police officers and boost starting salaries. The aim was to bolster law enforcement ranks, with a goal of maintaining a minimum of 4,000 sworn officers – roughly 900 more than were on the force in 2024 – as the city grows. The dispute hinges on how Dallas officials calculated “excess revenue” for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, and whether sufficient funds are being directed toward public safety as voters intended.

Lawsuit Details and Allegations

Attorney General Paxton’s lawsuit names the City of Dallas, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, and Chief Financial Officer Jack Ireland Jr. As defendants. According to the complaint, Paxton alleges that Dallas officials improperly calculated the city’s excess revenue, reporting approximately $61 million when, according to his office, it should be closer to $220 million according to the Texas Attorney General’s office. This undercalculation, Paxton argues, directly violates the spirit and letter of Proposition U.

The lawsuit further claims that Dallas failed to comply with a requirement within Proposition U to hire an independent third-party firm to conduct an annual police compensation survey. This survey was intended to ensure competitive pay for officers and attract qualified candidates. Paxton stated, “I filed this lawsuit to ensure that the City of Dallas fully funds law enforcement, upholds public safety, and is accountable to its constituents.”

Proposition U and its Backers

Proposition U was championed by a group called Dallas HERO, which received funding from Dallas-area hotelier and GOP megadonor Monty Bennett as reported by The Texas Tribune. Supporters of the measure argued that increased funding for police was necessary to address concerns about crime and public disorder, though crime rates in Dallas had already been declining prior to the vote. Critics, however, warned that tying the city’s budget so closely to public safety could lead to cuts in other essential services.

City Response and Pension Funding

While the lawsuit is unfolding, Dallas city leaders have taken some steps to address the requirements of Proposition U. In December, the city council approved a 30-year, $11 billion pension funding plan for the Dallas Police Department according to NBC DFW. However, Attorney General Paxton contends that this action is insufficient given the alleged undercalculation of available revenue and the failure to conduct the required compensation survey.

Legal and Political Context

This lawsuit comes as Ken Paxton is currently seeking to oust U.S. Senator John Cornyn in a competitive Republican primary election scheduled for March 3. The timing of the lawsuit has drawn scrutiny, with some observers suggesting a political motivation. Paxton, however, maintains that his actions are solely focused on upholding the law and ensuring public safety.

The legal battle is expected to be closely watched by other cities in Texas and across the country as they grapple with similar debates over police funding and public safety priorities. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how voter-approved measures are implemented, and enforced.

As the case progresses, the focus will be on how the court interprets the language of Proposition U and whether Dallas officials adequately justified their revenue calculations. The next step will likely involve a response from the City of Dallas, outlining their legal defense and potentially presenting their own evidence regarding revenue and spending.

What are your thoughts on the lawsuit? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation.

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world

El Paso Airspace Shut Down After Laser Fired on Balloon Mistaken for Drone

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

El Paso Airspace Shutdown: A party Balloon and a Laser – A Breakdown

Table of Contents

el Paso, Texas, experienced a dramatic and disruptive airspace closure this week, triggered by the misidentification of a party balloon as a potential aerial threat. The incident, stemming from border security operations, led to the temporary grounding of all flights at the city’s international airport and sparked criticism from local officials. The airspace, briefly restricted to levels not seen since the September 11th attacks, has since been reopened, but the event raises critical questions about protocol and coordination between federal agencies.

What Happened in El Paso?

on Tuesday, border patrol agents, equipped with a high-energy laser system, targeted an object believed to be an unauthorized drone operated by a Mexican cartel. Though, it quickly became clear that the object was not a drone but rather a harmless party balloon. Despite the innocuous nature of the target, the incident prompted a swift and extensive response.

Unexpected Airspace Restrictions

the Federal Aviation Governance (FAA) later imposed a ten-day closure of El Paso’s airspace, impacting commercial, cargo, and general aviation. This drastic measure, implemented without initial consultation with the white House or Defense officials, caused considerable disruption to travel plans and raised concerns among community leaders. The closure extended ten nautical miles from the airport and reached altitudes of up to 5,000 meters.

Laser Deployment and Security Concerns

The deployment of the laser technology was part of increased efforts by the Pentagon to enhance border security and develop capabilities to counter drone activity.According to sources, the system had been recently deployed and agents had received training from the Army in its operation. The FAA was reportedly informed about the laser’s deployment for a 10-day testing period, yet was not consulted before its use. An increase in drone activity along the U.S.-Mexico border has fueled these security measures, with the Trump administration previously voicing concerns about cartels utilizing drones for illicit activities.

A Timeline of Events

Date Event
February 11 Border agents fire a laser at a suspected drone (later identified as a balloon).
February 11 The FAA announces a 10-day airspace closure over El Paso.
February 12 The FAA lifts the airspace closure, citing no ongoing threat.

Backlash and Calls for Accountability

The sudden airspace closure drew sharp criticism from El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, who emphasized the lack of interaction and coordination with local authorities. Legislator Verónica Escobar echoed these sentiments, labeling the situation a “result of incompetence” at the federal level. The economic impact of the closure was also a concern, with Representative Gabe Vasquez highlighting the potential repercussions for businesses and travelers in both Texas and New Mexico. airlines such as United and southwest quickly responded, offering flexible change policies to affected passengers.

The Broader Context of drone Security

This incident underscores the growing challenges posed by unauthorized drone activity and the complexities of border security. The U.S. military has been actively testing high-energy laser weapons designed to neutralize airborne threats for years. In 2023,the Department of Defense reported a meaningful increase in unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs),some of which are suspected to be drones. The incident in El Paso highlights the need for clear protocols, improved communication, and careful target identification to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

What steps can be taken to improve communication and coordination between federal agencies regarding airspace security? Do you think the increased use of laser technology is a proportionate response to the threat of illicit drone activity?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.

What caused the El Paso airspace shutdown on February 12, 2026?

el Paso airspace Shut down After Laser Fired on Balloon Mistaken for Drone

On February 12th, 2026, the El Paso, Texas airspace experienced a significant, albeit temporary, shutdown following reports of a laser strike on what was initially believed to be a drone. The incident triggered a swift response from air traffic control adn local law enforcement, highlighting the growing concerns surrounding airspace security and the potential dangers of unauthorized laser illumination.

The Initial Incident & Response

At approximately 7:15 PM MST, air traffic controllers at El Paso International Airport (ELP) received multiple reports from pilots of a bright green laser beam directed towards the sky. Simultaneously, radar detected an unidentified object exhibiting unusual flight patterns. The combination of these factors led to the immediate assumption that a drone was operating illegally and perhaps posing a hazard to commercial air traffic.

* Airspace Restrictions: As a precautionary measure, a 30-mile radius around the suspected drone’s location was temporarily restricted. All civilian air traffic was grounded or rerouted, impacting several incoming and outgoing flights.

* Law Enforcement Involvement: The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) were immediately notified and launched a joint inquiry. Units were dispatched to pinpoint the source of the laser and identify the object in the airspace.

* Initial Search Efforts: Early search efforts focused on identifying potential drone operators in the vicinity. However, these proved unsuccessful.

The Balloon revelation & Investigation

After approximately 90 minutes, the “drone” was positively identified as a large, weather balloon released earlier that day by a local university’s atmospheric science department. the laser strike, it was steadfast, was directed at the balloon, not emanating from it.

* Source of the Laser: The EPPD quickly located the source of the laser – a teenager using a high-powered laser pointer from a residential area. The teenager claimed they were unaware of the airspace restrictions and were simply “playing” with the laser.

* FAA Regulations & laser Safety: Shining a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime,carrying potential penalties of up to $250,000 in fines and five years in prison. The FAA has seen a significant increase in laser incidents reported annually, posing a serious threat to pilot safety.

* Impact on Flights: The airspace was fully reopened at 9:00 PM MST, but the incident caused significant delays and disruptions for travelers. Over 20 flights were delayed, and three were diverted to choice airports.

Why Balloons Are Frequently enough Mistaken for Drones

The El Paso incident isn’t isolated. Several similar events have occurred in recent years where balloons – particularly large,reflective weather balloons – have been mistaken for unauthorized drones. Several factors contribute to this:

  1. Radar Signatures: Large balloons can sometimes register on radar systems, albeit with a different signature than a typical drone.
  2. Visual Appearance: From the ground, especially at night, a balloon can resemble a drone, particularly if illuminated.
  3. Unpredictable Movement: Weather balloons drift with the wind, leading to erratic flight paths that can mimic the behavior of a poorly piloted drone.

The growing Threat of Laser strikes

The incident underscores the increasing danger posed by laser strikes to aircraft. Even brief exposure to a powerful laser beam can cause:

* Temporary Vision Impairment: Pilots can experience temporary flash blindness, glare, and afterimages, making it difficult to control the aircraft.

* Distraction & Disorientation: The sudden and unexpected illumination can distract pilots during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.

* Permanent Eye Damage: In rare cases, prolonged or intense laser exposure can cause permanent retinal damage.

Preventing Future Incidents: A Multi-faceted Approach

Addressing the issue requires a collaborative effort from law enforcement, the FAA, and the public.

* Increased Public Awareness: Educational campaigns are crucial to inform the public about the dangers and legal consequences of pointing lasers at aircraft.

* Enhanced Law Enforcement Training: Equipping law enforcement with the tools and training to quickly identify and respond to laser incidents is essential.

* Technological Solutions: The FAA is exploring technologies to help pilots detect and mitigate laser strikes,such as laser warning systems and specialized eyewear.

* Balloon Release Regulations: Stricter regulations regarding the release of large balloons, including mandatory notification to air traffic control, could help prevent future misidentification incidents.

Real-World Examples & Similar Cases

This isn’t the first time a balloon has caused airspace disruption. In 2023, a similar incident occurred near Denver international Airport, where a weather balloon triggered a temporary ground stop. Moreover, in 2015, a large party balloon drifting into restricted airspace over Washington D.C. caused a security scare and led to the temporary evacuation of the White House. These cases highlight the need for vigilance and improved communication regarding aerial objects.

Benefits of Improved airspace Security Protocols

Investing in robust airspace security protocols yields several benefits:

* Enhanced Pilot & Passenger Safety: Minimizing the risk of laser strikes and misidentified objects directly contributes to safer air travel.

* Reduced Flight Delays & Disruptions: Proactive measures can prevent needless airspace closures and minimize disruptions to air traffic.

* Increased public Confidence: Demonstrating a commitment to airspace security builds public trust in the aviation system.

* Protection of critical Infrastructure: Safeguarding airspace protects vital infrastructure, such as airports and air traffic control facilities.

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News

Texas Time Change 2026: Date, Adjust & What to Expect

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Beyond the Time Change: How Texas’s Clock Adjustments Foreshadow a Future of Shifting Schedules

For Texans, the twice-yearly ritual of springing forward and falling back is as predictable as a summer heatwave. But beyond the minor inconvenience of resetting clocks, these adjustments in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin—and across the state—offer a glimpse into a future where our relationship with time itself is undergoing a fundamental shift. As perform patterns evolve, technology reshapes our days, and debates over the very necessity of daylight saving time intensify, understanding the implications of these clock changes is more critical than ever.

The 2026 Texas Time Shift: A Familiar Pattern

As with previous years, Texas will observe daylight saving time (DST) in 2026, beginning on Sunday, March 8th, when clocks will move forward one hour at 2:00 a.m. This will continue until Sunday, November 1st, when clocks will be turned back to standard time. This impacts not only major cities like Houston and Dallas, but also areas in Mountain Time, ensuring synchronized schedules across the state. Whereas seemingly straightforward, this annual adjustment highlights a growing disconnect between our biological rhythms and the demands of modern life.

The Ripple Effect: How DST Impacts Texas Industries

The time change isn’t merely a personal inconvenience; it has tangible effects on various sectors within Texas. Transportation schedules, energy consumption, and even retail activity are all influenced by the shift in daylight hours. For example, extending daylight into the evening can encourage more shopping and dining out, potentially boosting local economies. Yet, the disruption to sleep schedules can also lead to decreased productivity and increased safety risks, particularly in industries reliant on alertness and precision. Texas Shuttle, for instance, must adjust its non-stop rides to accommodate changing commuter patterns as noted in their travel guide.

Beyond Commuting: Energy and Utility Adjustments

The impact extends beyond transportation. Utility companies in cities like Austin and El Paso must recalibrate energy distribution to align with altered usage patterns. Similarly, irrigation and security systems programmed with specific time settings require manual adjustments to ensure continued functionality. Many older devices, unlike smartphones and laptops, lack automatic updates, placing the onus on owners to make these changes.

The Growing Debate: Is DST Still Relevant?

While Texas currently adheres to the federal daylight saving time calendar, the debate over its continued use is gaining momentum. Proponents argue that DST promotes economic activity and enhances safety by providing more daylight during peak hours. However, a growing body of research suggests that the disruption to sleep patterns can have negative consequences for health and productivity. This has led to proposals for permanent standard time or even permanent daylight saving time, though no changes are confirmed for 2026.

Did you know? Studies have linked the spring forward time change to a slight increase in heart attacks and traffic accidents in the days following the adjustment.

The Future of Time: Beyond DST

The conversation around DST is just one facet of a larger trend: a re-evaluation of how we structure our time. The rise of remote work, the gig economy, and increasingly flexible work arrangements are challenging the traditional 9-to-5 workday. This shift is prompting companies to explore alternative scheduling models, such as four-day workweeks and asynchronous work, which prioritize output over hours spent at a desk.

advancements in technology are blurring the lines between work and personal life. The always-on culture facilitated by smartphones and constant connectivity can lead to burnout and decreased well-being. There’s a growing emphasis on work-life balance and the importance of disconnecting from technology to prioritize mental and physical health.

The Rise of Personalized Time

Looking ahead, we may see a move towards more personalized time management. Instead of adhering to rigid schedules dictated by external forces, individuals may have greater control over when and how they work, learn, and engage in leisure activities. This could involve leveraging AI-powered tools to optimize schedules, prioritize tasks, and minimize distractions.

Expert Insight: “The future of work isn’t about fitting people into a predefined schedule; it’s about creating schedules that fit people,” says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in workplace psychology. “Technology will play a crucial role in enabling this shift, allowing us to tailor our days to our individual needs and preferences.”

Preparing for a Shifting Temporal Landscape

As Texas and the rest of the world navigate these evolving attitudes towards time, it’s essential to be proactive. Here are a few key steps you can seize:

  • Adjust your sleep routine gradually: In the week leading up to the time change, try to shift your sleep schedule by 15-30 minutes each day.
  • Review your schedules: Check public transportation schedules, flights, and work shifts to ensure you’re prepared for the adjustment.
  • Update your devices: Don’t forget to adjust manual clocks and ensure that your irrigation, security, and other systems are properly programmed.

Pro Tip: Utilize apps and tools designed to support you manage your time and prioritize tasks. These can be particularly helpful in navigating the challenges of a constantly changing schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do clocks change in Texas in 2026?

Clocks spring forward to 3:00 a.m. On Sunday, March 8th, and fall back to 1:00 a.m. On Sunday, November 1st.

Which Texas cities are affected by the time change?

All major Texas cities, including Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso, observe daylight saving time.

Do I need to change the time on all my devices?

Only devices that don’t automatically update, such as kitchen clocks and older electronics, require manual adjustment.

Is there a movement to eliminate daylight saving time in Texas?

Yes, there is ongoing debate about the benefits and drawbacks of DST, and some proposals have been made to switch to permanent standard time, but no changes are currently scheduled.

The annual time change in Texas is more than just a minor inconvenience. It’s a reminder that our relationship with time is constantly evolving. By understanding the implications of these shifts and embracing recent approaches to time management, we can navigate the challenges and opportunities of a future where time is increasingly fluid and personalized. What are your thoughts on the future of time and scheduling? Share your perspective in the comments below!

See our guide on flexible work arrangements for more information on adapting to changing work patterns. Explore the latest research on sleep and productivity to understand the impact of time changes on your well-being. And learn more about time management techniques to optimize your schedule and achieve your goals.

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Sport

Texas Tech Bolsters Backfield With Texas Running Back Sawyer Wilkerson

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text:

Texas Tech Football Roster Addition:

* Sawyer Wilkerson: A running back with a prolific high school career (5,600+ rushing yards) from Comanche and stephenville High Schools, has joined the Texas Tech football team as a redshirt freshman.
* He was a student at Tech in the fall prior to joining the roster.

wilkerson’s High school Stats:

* Freshman Year: 150 rushing yards (injured, season-ending)
* Sophomore Year (Comanche – 2022): 259 carries, 2,601 yards, 29 touchdowns (10-2 team record)
* Junior Year (Comanche – 2023): 187 carries, 1,251 yards, 13 touchdowns (8-5 team record)
* Senior Year (Stephenville): 201 carries, 1,659 yards, 26 touchdowns (12-2 team record)

Other Texas Tech Football News:

* Matt Ludwig: A national top-300 recruit who originally signed with Michigan, but is now joining Texas Tech after a coaching change at Michigan. (this is discussed in a linked video).
* Schedule: the 2026 football schedule has been set, with Big 12 play opening against Houston.
* Player Updates: Articles mention updates on players like Jayden Cofield (DT – surgery), Skyler Gill (NFL Draft), and others.

Additional Information:

* Tristian Gentry: Wilkerson’s teammate at Stephenville, who also plays for Texas tech.
* The article also contains links to other related stories about Texas Tech football.

How will Sawyer Wilkerson contribute to Texas Tech’s running game?

Table of Contents

Texas Tech Bolsters Backfield With Texas Running back Sawyer Wilkerson

Lubbbock, TX – February 3, 2026 – The Texas Tech Red Raiders have considerably strengthened their running back room with the addition of Sawyer Wilkerson, a highly-touted prospect from [High School Name], announced earlier today. This commitment addresses a key need for the program as they look to build a potent offensive attack in the upcoming season and beyond.

Wilkerson’s Profile: A Deep Dive

Wilkerson, a [height] and [Weight] running back, quickly became a target for several Power Five programs due to his notable blend of power, speed, and agility. Scouts consistently praise his vision, ability to break tackles, and receiving skills out of the backfield – attributes that align perfectly with the evolving demands of modern college football.

Here’s a breakdown of what Wilkerson brings to the table:

* Rushing Prowess: Averaged [Yards Per Carry] and [Total Rushing Yards] during his senior season, showcasing consistent production against strong competition.

* Receiving Threat: Demonstrated reliable hands and route-running ability, accumulating [Number] receptions for [Yards] as a receiver. this versatility makes him a valuable asset in passing situations.

* Physicality & Toughness: Known for running with a low center of gravity and consistently fighting for extra yardage.

* Football IQ: Coaches rave about his understanding of blocking schemes and his ability to read defenses.

Impact on the Red Raiders’ Offensive Scheme

Texas tech’s offensive philosophy, under [Head Coach’s Name], has increasingly emphasized a balanced attack. While historically known for it’s passing game, the program recognizes the importance of a strong running game to control the clock, wear down defenses, and open up opportunities in the passing game. Wilkerson’s skillset is tailor-made for this approach.

He’s expected to compete for playing time immediately, possibly alongside returning running backs [Running Back 1 Name] and [Running Back 2 Name]. The competition will be fierce, but Wilkerson’s potential is undeniable.

Recruiting Battle & Why Texas Tech?

Wilkerson’s recruitment was a hotly contested affair, with offers from [Rival School 1], [Rival School 2], and [Rival School 3]. Ultimately, he chose Texas Tech citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and a belief in the program’s vision.

“I felt like I fit in really well with the coaches and the players,” Wilkerson stated in a recent interview. “they showed me how I could contribute to the team and help them win. The atmosphere in Lubbock is electric,and I’m excited to be a Red Raider.”

Position Group Outlook: Running Backs in 2026

The addition of Wilkerson elevates the overall talent level within the Red Raiders’ running back group. Here’s a look at the current landscape:

  1. sawyer Wilkerson (Freshman): High-upside player with the potential to become a star.
  2. [Running Back 1 Name] (Sophomore): Experienced back with a proven track record.
  3. [Running Back 2 Name] (Junior): Provides depth and special teams contributions.
  4. [Running Back 3 Name] (Redshirt Freshman): Developing player with intriguing athleticism.

This depth will be crucial as the Red Raiders navigate a challenging Big 12 schedule.

what This Means for Red Raider Fans

The commitment of Sawyer Wilkerson is a critically important win for Texas Tech. It demonstrates the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent and signals a commitment to building a sustainable, competitive football program.Fans can expect to see a more dynamic and balanced offense in the coming years, with Wilkerson playing a key role in the team’s success.

beyond the Yardage: Wilkerson’s Character

Off the field, Wilkerson is known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude. He was a multi-sport athlete in high school, also excelling in [Other Sport]. Coaches and teammates consistently praise his leadership qualities and his commitment to academic excellence. These attributes make him not only a talented football player but also a valuable addition to the Texas Tech community.

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