SUMMARY: The Texas Longhorns begin their season Saturday against Ohio State in Columbus, but their live mascot, Bevo—a 2,100-pound steer—won’t attend. Handler Ricky Brennes explained that traveling to Ohio early in the school year would disrupt students in the Silver Spurs Alumni Association, who manage Bevo, and the long trip isn’t ideal for the steer. The 18-hour drive requires multiple stops for Bevo to stretch and rest in pastures overnight, as he doesn’t stay in the trailer overnight. Bevo is expected to appear at the Longhorns’ next three home games starting September 6.

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SUMMARY: The Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, is waiving numerous environmental and health regulations to expedite construction of five miles of border wall through wildlife refuges in South Texas’s Rio Grande Valley. These waivers affect protected areas within the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, threatening endangered species and habitats. Environmentalists criticize the move, highlighting the violation of 31 laws, including the Endangered Species Act and Clean Water Act. Despite historically low border apprehensions, DHS insists the construction is vital for security. Critics argue the wall disrupts wildlife corridors and targets federal lands to avoid legal hurdles, causing significant ecological harm.

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SUMMARY: Two used needles were found on the playground of Joslin Elementary School in Austin ISD, raising safety concerns among parents. The school promptly informed parents and provided resources to affected students. The nearby Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center, which offers services to people experiencing homelessness, has been controversial, with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton suing it for operating as a nuisance and citing safety risks. Sunrise’s director denied connections between the center and the incident, emphasizing ongoing community support and cleanups. Austin City Council plans to relocate the center to a more appropriate site, considering impacts on families connected to the school.

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