New TxT Service: Upgrade Your Texas Learner License to a Provisional License Online
A new feature has been added to TxT, allowing Texans to upgrade a learner driver license to a provisional driver license online. This update provides a more convenient way to complete the process without requiring a visit to a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Here’s a breakdown of how the service works and what you need to know.
Eligibility for the Online License Upgrade
If you or a family member holds a Texas learner license, this online upgrade allows drivers to transition seemlessly from a learner license to a provisional license after passing the required driving skills test. This eliminates the need for scheduling an appointment or visiting a DPS location, streamlining the process for new drivers.
Steps to Complete the License Upgrade
To initiate the upgrade, your learner license must be linked to your TxT account. Once you pass the driving skills test with an authorized third-party provider, and after the DPS verifies and approves your information, the “Upgrade Driver License” option will become available in your TxT to-do list.
From there, you can complete the upgrade by following the provided steps online. The process is straightforward and can be done at any time, without needing to visit a DPS office.
Other Available Services on TxT
In addition to the new license upgrade feature, TxT offers a range of services for account holders. These include vehicle registration renewal, driver license or ID renewal, and address changes. More services will be added in the future to further simplify various tasks.
One must effectively address a crucial point in the development of the United States that exists in the complexities and legacy of slavery with its attached component of white supremacy. Poor whites could not afford slaves as the price for just one was exorbitant (roughly $600 during a specific time frame). Most Whites could not afford slaves so their path to becoming “gentlemen” of the slave owning class was blocked. However, the desire to own slaves was strong, and this was the powerful influence of white supremacy which became an accepted social and political ideology that created fear of equality with Blacks. Their loss of white privilege at the top of the racial pyramid because of skin color, was threatened with the abolition of slavery. This was the motivator for poor whites to fight for the upper class.
The “gentlemen” of the slave owning class were murderers, serial killers, psychopaths and evil men. The myth of these “gentlemen” was mad obvious in the movie “Gone with the Wind.” The movie was about the burning of Atlanta and the destruction of the “gentlemen class” of slave owners. The brainwashed Confederate soldiers were fooled into supporting slavery, the Confederacy, Robert E. Lee, and these rest of those American traitors, when they had no money to buy slaves. Gone with the Wind was a 1939 white supremacist American film adapted from a novel by Margaret Mitchell. It was an attempt to make audiences feel pity for the crushed “gentlemen” few that fought for the Confederate Army who were chased like dogs from Atlanta by northern general William Sherman. With this victory, the South lost an important slave holder city that was providing supplies to their lost cause.
On August 15, 1864, the 14th United States Colored Troops (USCT) defeated a Confederate attack on the Western and Atlantic Railroad, which was General William T. Sherman’s main supply line. The majority of the Black soldiers in the 14th USCT were former slaves. Given the history of Georgia it becomes easier to understand why Trump is so worried about losing the election there, as many of his racist supporters are gone with the wind racist lunatics, focused on an invented past. The destruction of Southern rail lines devastated the Confederacy. On November 15, 1864, northern troops led by Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman burned nearly all of the captured city of Atlanta, Georgia and freed many slaves. This is what they were crying about in that white supremacist movie.
The psychological impact of white supremacy short-circuited class awareness and created a racist hierarchy over class self -interest. The role of racial identification, with whites often saying, “I might be poor, but at least I am not Black,” demonstrates how those in power exploited this racism to supply troops for the plantation class during the Civil War. If slavery ended, the perception was that Blacks could achieve equality with whites. Hence, the poorest White often thought they were superior. This complex dynamic sustained white supremacy. Today, extremist white supremacist organizations, that politicians are now using, provides support for racist schemes by Trump.
In the United States, this social engineered fact is what fuels police abuse and racism which is accompanied with white supremacist penetration in presidential campaigns to develop racialized social policies. This makes it important to challenge systematic and institutional racism that continues to shape our lives today. This past has not been quarantined from the present and will result in a return to increased hatred, of those most vulnerable, if not defeated.
The Power of Information: Navigating Election Seasons and Protecting Our Rights
Throughout our lives, we are exposed to various rules and teachings that influence our growth. These moments shape our convictions, values, and standards, guiding the decisions we make throughout our journey.
Recognizing the Dangers of Disinformation in Elections
With the development of these skills, we become better equipped to identify the harmful effects of both disinformation and misinformation, especially during election seasons. Campaigns and some officials often prioritize spreading their messages, regardless of truth, which can manipulate public perception.
The Importance of Sound Judgment in Electing Our Representatives
As the future becomes the present, it’s crucial to apply the foundation we’ve built to make informed decisions about who will represent us. The outcome of elections has significant consequences, especially when it comes to policies that impact our political freedoms.
Recent Texas Ruling Shuts Down Voter Fraud Investigation
On September 28, Federal Judge Xavier Rodriguez ruled that parts of Texas’s Voter Security Law (SB1) were unconstitutional. The ruling states that Texas can no longer criminally investigate voter assistance efforts, citing violations of free speech and the 14th amendment.
Under this provision, individuals who assist mail-in voters for compensation could face penalties, up to ten years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Representatives from organizations like LULAC and the ACLU applauded the decision, emphasizing its role in keeping elections accessible and protecting voters’ rights. This victory highlights the ongoing battle to ensure that every Texan, particularly young voters, has the opportunity to vote.
College Campuses to Serve as Early Voting Sites in Bexar County
In an effort to make voting more accessible, seven college campuses in Bexar County will serve as Early Voting sites. This provides a greater opportunity for young voters, ages 18 to 30, to cast their ballots and participate in the democratic process.
The Benefits of Voting and the Consequences of Inaction
Voting has both benefits and consequences. It’s up to voters to choose the path that leads to positive change, rather than allowing disinformation to steer their decisions.
More than 120 people have accused Sean “Diddy” Combs of sexual assault, according to an attorney who plans to file lawsuits against the rapper on their behalf
Content warning: This story discusses graphic violence and sexual abuse.
“We will expose the enablers who enabled this conduct behind closed doors,” Texas-based attorney TonyBuzbee, who is representing the 120 accusers, told reporters at an Oct. 1 press conference, per NBC News. “We will pursue this matter no matter who the evidence implicates.”
The lawyer said his team had “collected pictures, video, texts,” which would expose, “Many powerful people … many dirty secrets.”
The allegations against Combs Buzbee noted, include, “violent sexual assault or rape, facilitated sex with a controlled substance, dissemination of video recordings, sexual abuse of minors.”
“It’s a long list already,” he continued, “but because of the nature of this case, we are going to make sure, damn sure we are right before we do that. These names will shock you.”
The attorney explained that over 3,000 individuals had come forward with accusations against Combs, and that he and his team would be filing lawsuits in numerous states within the next 30 days. He also added that they will be naming other defendants at a later date.
In the press conference, Buzbee said that 25 of the accusers were minors at the time of the alleged incidents, adding that one accuser was allegedly just 9 years old.
However, Combs’ legal team denies all the allegations against him.
“As Mr. Combs’ legal team has emphasized, he cannot address every meritless allegation in what has become a reckless media circus,” his attorney Erica Wolff said in a statement to E! News. “That said, Mr. Combs emphatically and categorically denies as false and defamatory any claim that he sexually abused anyone, including minors.”
She added, “He looks forward to proving his innocence and vindicating himself in court, where the truth will be established based on evidence, not speculation.”
The documents—filed on Sept. 27—allege that the music mogul assaulted the woman over a four-year period, claiming that one occasion led her to becoming pregnant, although she later suffered a miscarriage.
Here are some of the most iconic Black NBA rookies who forever changed the game
In October 1950, Earl Lloyd became the first African-American to play in an official NBA game, suiting up for the Washington Capitals. His historic debut paved the way for future Black players to make their mark on professional basketball and helped open the doors for diversity in the sport.
Magic Johnson: Transforming the Point Guard Role
30 Jan 1996: Guard Earvin (Magic) Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during a game against the Golden State Warriors at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California. Mandatory Credit: ALLSPORT USA /Allsport Mandatory Credit: ALLSPORT USA /A
After leading Michigan State to an NCAA title, Magic Johnson was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979. His rookie season was nothing short of remarkable. When center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was injured in the 1980 NBA Finals, the Lakers moved Johnson from point guard to center, where he scored 42 points, securing the championship. Johnson went on to lead the Lakers to multiple titles and became a 12-time All-Star and an integral part of the 1992 Olympic Dream Team.
Michael Jordan: A Superstar from the Start
Guard Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls stands on the court during a playoff game against the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Jazz won the game 104-93. 6 Jun 1997. (Photo: Brian Bahr /Allsport)
Michael Jordan’s rookie year in 1984-85 saw him crowned NBA Rookie of the Year. From the moment he stepped on the court, Jordan established himself as a leader for the Chicago Bulls. One of only 45 players ever to make the All-Star game in their rookie season, Jordan quickly became a global icon, leading the Bulls to six championships and solidifying his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Shaquille O’Neal: A Force in His First Year
1 Nov 1996: Los Angeles Lakers center Shaquille O’Neal looks on during a game against the Phoenix Suns at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California. The Lakers won the game, 96-82. Mandatory Credit: Jed Jacobsohn /Allsport
Shaquille O’Neal made an instant impact during his 1992-93 rookie season with the Orlando Magic. Like Jordan, Shaq earned Rookie of the Year honors and played in the All-Star Game as a rookie. His presence helped transform the Magic, more than doubling their previous season’s wins. O’Neal’s dominance continued throughout his career, earning him multiple titles and MVP awards.
LeBron James: A Phenomenal Debut
(Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
Drafted first overall in 2003, LeBron James lived up to the hype, winning the Rookie of the Year award for the 2003-04 season. With a 40-point game and twelve 30-point games under his belt that year, James set the tone for a career that has spanned over two decades. Even in his 21st season, LeBron continues to push the boundaries of greatness.
Kobe Bryant: From High School to NBA Stardom
This January 2006 photo shows Kobe Bryant talking about his 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors at the Los Angeles Lakers’ headquarters in El Segundo, California. The Lakers unveiled a statue of Bryant on Thursday, honoring their late superstar with a 19-foot bronze likeness. (Photo: Reed Saxon/AP, File)
Kobe Bryant entered the NBA at just 18 years old, becoming the youngest rookie in league history. His 1996-97 season had its challenges, but Bryant’s talent quickly became undeniable. He won the Slam Dunk Contest in his rookie season and continued to evolve into one of the game’s greatest players, winning five championships and earning MVP honors throughout his career.
Other Standout African-American Rookies
Many other Black rookies have made significant impacts on the NBA, including players like Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Charles Barkley, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, each of whom carved out lasting legacies in their first seasons.
Building a Legacy
These rookies not only excelled in their first seasons but also set the stage for future generations, breaking records and inspiring countless others to rise to greatness in the NBA.
VA Benefits Increase for 2025 – Check Eligibility, Pay Chart & Payment Dates
The yearly cost of living adjustment (COLA) is expected to result in a VA benefits increase for veterans and military retirees across the nation in 2025. The COLA applied to Social Security benefits will be shown by this increase, making sure that veterans’ benefits keep up with inflation.
Congress’s recent passage of this legislation is an important step toward maintaining veterans’ financial security, especially for those who heavily depend on these benefits for everyday living. This adjustment recognizes the ongoing rising prices veterans face, making sure they are not left behind as living costs rise.
VA Benefits Increase for 2025
The COLA increase will help over 7 million veterans and retired military members. Approximately 5 million veterans and 2 million military retirees receive monthly payments from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for various forms of support.
The increase will be applied to clothing allowances, dependency and protection benefits, and other VA programs in addition to disability payments. Without this annual legislative action by Congress, these benefits would remain unchanged, which might negatively impact the financial well-being of veterans relying on them.
VA Benefits 2025 Overview
Projected COLA Increase
Approximately 2.4% is the estimated COLA increase for 2025, according to projections from Senior Citizens League experts. Even though this estimate is the lowest increase since 2020, veterans and retirees will still need to make this adjustment to help them manage the growing costs of goods and services.
For comparison, the COLA increase in 2023 was 8.7%, the highest in 40 years, and it increased by 3.2% in 2024. Maintaining financial security is still critical for veterans, even though the adjustment in 2025 may be less significant.
VA Benefit Payment Amounts
Veterans with varying degrees of disability will receive significant financial support from the VA in the form of disability benefits payment amounts for 2024.
The monthly benefits for unmarried veterans without dependents vary from $171.23 for veterans with a 10% disability rating to $3,737.85 for veterans with a 100% disability rating.
While they are not eligible for monthly benefits, veterans with a 0% disability rating may still be eligible for other benefits like VA health care.
Eligibility Requirements for VA Benefits Increase
To access to VA Benefits Increase, new eligibility requirements are being introduced in addition to the COLA increase. Veterans who received an Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge due to mental health conditions such as PTSD or military trauma can now request a faster review and adjustment of their discharge status.
Many veterans will now have less obstacles to overcome and access a wider range of benefits, providing much-needed financial help to those who have served.
VA Disability Rates for 2025
VA Benefits Increase Payment Schedule
According to the 2024 payment schedule, veterans receive timely financial support because VA Benefits Increase have been distributed consistently during the year.
The payment dates for October, November, and December of 2024 are Friday, November 1, November, and Tuesday, December 31.
Veterans who rely on these benefits have been designed to have stability and dependability from the schedule.
Furthermore, as living expenses continue to be impacted by inflation, the anticipated 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment increase has the goal of protecting veterans’ financial security.
FAQs
What were recent COLA increases?
The COLA increase was 8.7% in 2023 and 3.2% in 2024.
Can 0% disability veterans get benefits?
Yes, they may qualify for other benefits like health care.
How much will the increase be?
The estimated VA Benefits Increase is approximately 2.4%.
Victor Wembanyama Bulks Up: From Slim Rookie to Powerhouse Contender
As Victor Wembanyama prepares to enter his second NBA season, excitement surrounding the San Antonio Spurs’ star remains at an all-time high. Coming off a rookie year that saw him unanimously crowned Rookie of the Year and in close contention for Defensive Player of the Year, Wembanyama has already exceeded many expectations on the court.
Rookie Season at 210lbs
One of the few concerns initially surrounding the 7’4″ center was his weight. Entering the league at just 210 pounds, questions loomed about how he would handle the physicality of the NBA, especially against some of the league’s most imposing players. However, after playing in 71 NBA games and representing France in the Olympics, Wembanyama’s durability quickly dispelled many of those doubts.
Bulked UP, Simply Gaining Mass
At the Spurs’ recent media day, the team released their official roster, revealing that Wembanyama has bulked up significantly—now tipping the scales at 235 pounds. Despite the 25-pound increase, it’s clear that this transformation is more about strength and conditioning than simply gaining mass. Wembanyama himself emphasized that his focus during the offseason was on improving his strength and mobility, rather than simply adding weight.
“It’s a natural process because it’s important to work in a way that’s good for your body and respects the body’s identity,” Wembanyama explained. “We really put an emphasis on gaining strength and core strength, not gaining weight necessarily, but weight will come with strength. It’s just a result of the good work we’ve done all summer. I’m really satisfied with the summer we just had here.”
Victor Wembanyama
Regular Yoga Practice
Known for his remarkable flexibility—thanks in part to his regular yoga practice—Wembanyama is keenly aware of the risks that come with his towering frame. Historically, players of his size have struggled with injuries, but his playing style, which prioritizes agility and finesse, has so far proven durable. His rookie season showed a player with the potential to not only dominate but also stay healthy over the long haul.
Now entering his fifth season as a professional (with three seasons in France under his belt), Wembanyama understands the importance of offseason work in building a lasting career.
“I’ve felt my body strength increase every year,” he said. “I want to keep going in that direction because it’s the primary thing that allows me to expand my game.”
A More Dominant Force
In his rookie year, Wembanyama often relied on jump shots rather than powering through defenders to the basket. With his newly added muscle, he now draws comparisons to Giannis Antetokounmpo, a player known for both his strength and versatility. It’s clear that the Spurs’ phenom is evolving, and as his body continues to mature, so too will his game. Fans and opponents alike can expect to see a more dominant force on the court this season.
43-Foot-Tall Naked Trump Marionette Unveiled in Las Vegas
A new art installation in Las Vegas is turning heads—literally. A 43-foot-tall marionette of former President Donald Trump, depicted naked, has made its debut as part of the “Crooked and Obscene Tour.” This massive sculpture, weighing around 6,000 pounds and constructed from foam over rebar, is the centerpiece of an art project aimed at making a statement on political transparency and public personas.
An Artistic Statement on Politics and Transparency
The creators of the project describe the naked Trump marionette as a bold expression of vulnerability and transparency in politics. According to the tour’s organizers, the goal is to provoke thought about the influence of political figures and the transparency—or lack thereof—in their public actions. By displaying such a larger-than-life figure of Trump in this exposed manner, they hope to ignite conversations about the power dynamics in American politics.
Touring the U.S. After Its Vegas Debut
After its initial showcase in Las Vegas, the sculpture is set to travel across the United States as part of the “Crooked and Obscene Tour.” While dates and specific cities have yet to be announced, the massive marionette will soon be on display in multiple locations. The project organizers aim to bring this controversial piece to a wide audience, challenging perceptions and sparking dialogue in each stop.
Not the First Naked Trump Statue
This isn’t the first time Trump has been the subject of a nude art piece. In 2016, the art collective INDECLINE commissioned artist Joshua “Ginger” Monroe to create a series of life-size naked statues of Trump as part of a project titled “The Emperor Has No Balls.” These statues appeared in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Cleveland but were quickly removed due to their unauthorized placement. The new marionette, however, dwarfs its predecessors and adds an even more dramatic presence.
Stay tuned for updates on tour dates and locations as this towering installation travels the country, continuing to stir reactions and fuel discussions.
Red Cross GSA to Honor Lifesaving Heroes at Board Fundraiser
(The American Red Cross Greater San Antonio Chapter) — The American Red Cross Greater San Antonio Chapter is proud to honor three individuals with the prestigious Lifesaving Award for their heroic actions. Hannah Sandini, Nick Sandini, and Tamaryn Wynder will receive the Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action during a ceremony at the IBC Bank Event Center, 8650 Fredericksburg Road, San Antonio, TX 78240, on Monday, September 30, at 5:30 p.m. This event also marks the Board of Directors’ inaugural fundraising event, dedicated to raising awareness of the Red Cross mission and celebrating local heroes.
On November 19, 2023, at Flix Brewhouse in San Antonio, a moviegoer suffered an apparent heart attack and stopped breathing. Two bystanders, Nick and Hannah Sandini immediately stepped in to help. Nick assessed the situation, ensured the victim’s airway was clear, confirmed they were not breathing, and performed CPR and rescue breathing until first responders arrived. Meanwhile, Hannah calmly called 911, communicated the details of the emergency, confirmed there was no AED available, and supported the victim’s family during the crisis.
On February 26, 2024, Tamaryn Wynder and her teammates witnessed a fellow athlete choking in a parking lot at their school. While others froze in shock, Tamaryn acted quickly, performing the Heimlich maneuver and successfully dislodging a large strawberry from her teammate’s airway. Thanks to Tamaryn’s swift intervention, her teammate was able to breathe again.
Dr. Daniel P. Martinez, Executive Director of the Greater San Antonio Chapter, will present the awards alongside the chapter’s board of directors, staff, volunteers, and community members.
“American Red Cross Lifesaving Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage in emergency situations, saving or sustaining lives,” said Dr. Martinez. “Hannah, Nick, and Tamaryn exemplify the Red Cross mission to alleviate human suffering in times of crisis, and their unwavering commitment to helping others deserves this recognition.”
Fundraising Event
The Lifesaving Award presentation will be part of a special fundraising event hosted by the Greater San Antonio Chapter Board of Directors, at the IBC Bank Event Center from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Community members are invited to attend to learn more about the Red Cross mission and support its efforts. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP here.
Nominate Someone
People can visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate and recognize an individual or group of individuals who have used the skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain a life.
Journalist Jade Jackson Pursues MBA at Family-Founded Jarvis Christian University
Jade DeMelody Jackson, a journalist with The Indianapolis Star, has announced her return to higher education as an MBA candidate at Jarvis Christian University. This step holds deep personal significance for Jackson, as her great-grandfather, Thomas Buchanan Frost, was among the founders of the historically Black university over a century ago.
A Personal Connection to Jarvis Christian University
Jackson shared the news on her Instagram, stating, “I’m officially an MBA candidate at Jarvis Christian University this fall. It’s back to school for me at the same HBCU my great-grandfather founded in 1912.” Her return to school symbolizes a full-circle moment, continuing the family’s connection to the institution that began with its founding.
The Founding of Jarvis Christian University
Jarvis Christian University, originally known as Jarvis Christian Institute, was established in partnership with the Negro Disciples of Christ, drawing inspiration from the Southern Christian Institute in Mississippi. The school’s creation was spearheaded by Mrs. Mary Alphin, who led a fundraising effort through the Christian Woman’s Board of Missions to provide education for Black youth. When the school opened in 1913, Thomas Buchanan Frost and Charles Albert Berry served as the first Superintendent and Principal, respectively.
From Humble Beginnings to a Leading HBCU
What started as a small elementary school in Hawkins, Texas, has grown into a respected historically Black university. Jarvis Christian University is known for its dedication to academic excellence, service, and Christian ethics. These core values have guided the institution in preparing a diverse student body for over a century.
Continuing a Legacy Through Education
Last year, Jackson’s family established the Frost-Briggs Legacy Fund, which offers scholarships to undergraduates at the university. Now, as a student herself, Jackson continues her family’s long-standing commitment to the institution. Reflecting on this journey, Jackson shared, “It’s a true honor to carry on my family’s legacy of excellence at the very place we’ve contributed to for generations. Being a student here is both humbling and inspiring.”
Jackson’s pursuit of an MBA at Jarvis Christian University marks another chapter in her family’s deep ties to the institution and their ongoing contribution to its mission.
