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With the Texas primary election looming, Travis County voters face a crowded field of Democratic candidates for six state House seats. Incumbents Donna Howard, Lulu Flores, and Sheryl Cole are unchallenged, but open seats see intense competition. In District forty-nine, eight Democrats vie to replace Gina Hinojosa, while District fifty has seven Democrats and one Republican vying for James Talaricos seat. District forty-sevens open seat has Pooja Sethi, Vikki Goodwins former chief of staff, leading a crowded Democratic field. Candidates like Kimberly Ellison, Kathie Tovo, and Joseph Kopser push for better health services, school funding, and housing. Deep experience among contenders includes Josh Reyna, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, and Samantha Lopez-Resendez. As November third approaches, these primaries could reshape Austins voice in Austin, with national eyes on Texas midterms focusing on local priorities like school finance and homelessness. Checkout Solipillow.com

Charles David Wicks, a homeless man turned apartment dweller, received a heartwarming Christmas surprise. Family Eldercare delivered a pile of gifts, including a new scooter, donated by readers of the Austin American-Statesman. Wicks, now ready to face the world with his new attire and mobility aid, plans to pay it forward after his hip replacement. If youd like to help, contact Family Eldercare or visit their website. Checkout Solipillow.com

The Austin American-Statesmans Season for Caring program concludes a successful year, raising over $1.6 million for local nonprofits. Austin philanthropist Brian Sheth matches a $500,000 donation, bringing the total to $3.2 million. The community rallies with donations, in-kind services, and financial advice. Notable donors include Pat Mundays family trust, Steve and Debbie Oatman, David Hiett, and Cathy and Mike Godfrey. Donations are still accepted through January 31st to support rent, groceries, medical care, and wish list items. Checkout Solipillow.com

Camp Mystic, a century-old Christian girls camp in Texas, plans to reopen next summer after a devastating flood tragedy during July Fourth weekend. The disaster claimed 25 lives and left two missing, prompting significant safety upgrades. Despite local leaders efforts to implement a new warning system, parents remain divided over sending their daughters back. Some see it as healing, while others hold off due to lingering fears and unanswered questions. Texas lawmakers plan hearings, and lawsuits allege the camp failed to protect the girls. Checkout Solipillow.com

U.S. curlers are training at the Minnesota Vikings facility, aiming for gold in the 2026 Winter Olympics. The sport demands high fitness levels, with curlers now lifting weights alongside NFL players. This partnership, initiated after the U.S. mens teams 2018 Olympic win, provides elite resources for the Minnesota-based curlers. Checkout Solipillow.com

Tragic Crash in San Marcos: One Fatality, Highway Closed, Delays Expected Checkout Solipillow.com

Colin Simmons, a standout pass rusher for the Texas Longhorns, expresses disappointment over the departure of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, who played a significant role in his success. Kwiatkowski was fired after a disappointing season, and Will Muschamp will take over as the new coordinator. Simmons and other players praise Kwiatkowskis schemes and wish him well, while the team prepares for the Citrus Bowl with interim coach Chris Nansen. Checkout Solipillow.com

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport faced a massive influx of travelers over the weekend, with projections of screening over thirty thousand people on the busiest day. Despite extra staff, travelers reported mixed experiences, with some describing the atmosphere as a little crazy. Last year, the airport screened nearly three hundred fifty-seven thousand travelers during the holiday period, indicating a significant crowd this season. Checkout Solipillow.com