Hundreds of soccer fans in Houston gathered at a public viewing event to watch the FIFA World Cup draw and learn which national teams could play in the city next summer. Organizers confirmed that Houston will host seven matches and provided details about potential team assignments, stadium operations, and local preparations.
A Texas judge denied Klein ISD’s request to dismiss a federal Title IX lawsuit tied to former Klein Cain High School teacher Kedria Grigsby, who faces child trafficking and compelling prostitution charges in Harris County. The ruling keeps the civil case active and allows plaintiffs to pursue claims that the district failed to respond adequately to alleged misconduct, while Grigsby’s separate criminal case proceeds in state court.
Voters across Houston will choose a new at-large city council member in a runoff election on Saturday, Dec. 13, after the previous officeholder stepped down to run for Harris County Judge. Early voting runs through Tuesday, Dec. 9, at locations across the city administered by Harris County election officials. The at-large seat represents all Houston residents and plays a key role in decisions on budget, infrastructure, and public safety. Election authorities will release unofficial results on election night and certify final totals after counting all eligible ballots.
Houston City Councilwoman Abbie Kamin announced her candidacy for Harris County Attorney, a move that will require her to vacate her current council seat under Texas’ resign-to-run rules. Her decision sets up an open seat on Houston’s largest legislative body and adds a new contender to the race for Harris County’s top civil legal office. Local and state election authorities will manage the process for filling her council vacancy and administering the Harris County Attorney election, while Harris County voters will ultimately choose the next official to lead the office.
Kevin Durant scored 28 points in Houston to become the eighth player in NBA history to reach 31,000 career points, but the Phoenix Suns fell to the Houston Rockets, 117-98, on Friday night. The game marked Durant’s first matchup against his former team since a recent seven-team trade involving Jalen Green and multiple assets reshaped both rosters. Houston used balanced scoring, strong rebounding, and tight perimeter defense to control the contest, while Phoenix relied on Durant’s efficient shooting in the loss.
Authorities in Bartlett, Texas, are investigating vandalism at the historic Bartlett Red School building and have offered a reward for information leading to the suspects. Police documented damage at the site, collected evidence, and appealed to the public for tips, including any sightings of suspicious activity near the property. Officials are working with preservation representatives to assess the impact on the historic structure.
LeBron James and Luka Doncic missed the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the Boston Celtics on Friday night at TD Garden, where Boston posted a 126-105 win. Austin Reaves scored 36 points with eight assists for the Lakers, while Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 30 points. Former Celtics guard Marcus Smart also did not play. The loss halted the Lakers’ strong recent run of eight wins in nine games, as both teams adjusted lineups to cover key absences in this regular-season NBA matchup.
The Texas Restaurant Association has activated the TX Restaurant Relief Fund to offer $5,000 grants to independent restaurants and foodservice workers in Central Texas impacted by catastrophic July 2024 floods. Eligible businesses that suffered physical damage, inventory loss, or prolonged closure can apply online for financial assistance to support repairs, equipment replacement, payroll, and other recovery costs. The fund, supported by donations from industry partners and individuals, will review applications on a rolling basis and distribute grants directly to approved recipients.
Austin officials report that the city must commit funding earlier than planned for phase two of the I-35 “caps and stitches” project after a change in the funding schedule by transportation partners. The project will add deck-style caps and connections over a rebuilt, lowered I-35 to support parks, public spaces and development in central Austin. City staff will bring updated cost estimates, funding options and a revised timeline to the Austin City Council while coordinating design and construction with TxDOT to keep the caps integrated with the highway redesign.
Fort Bend County approved a $1.5 million contribution to help fund a permanent memorial for the “Sugar Land 95,” the remains of 95 individuals uncovered in 2018 on Fort Bend ISD property and believed to be victims of Texas’ historic convict leasing system. The county’s funding will support design, construction and educational elements at the protected cemetery site, in partnership with the school district, state agencies, researchers and community groups. Officials plan for the memorial to serve as a public historical and educational resource while honoring the individuals reinterred on the campus.