Housing Affordability, United Targets Noisy Passengers, CA Seat Switch

Sunday, March 8, 2026

Good Morning! On this day in 1912, future Texas Gov. Preston Smith was born in Williamson County. He served in the Texas House and Senate before being elected lieutenant governor in 1962 and governor in 1968. He lost his bid for a third term as governor after becoming embroiled in the Sharpstown stock-fraud scandal.

From Mars missions to free ice cream, Texas headlines span quite a range today. Texas A&M is opening a $200 million space institute while Blue Bell hits the road with free scoops. Which story caught your eye? Hit reply and let us know.

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70+ Arrested as Spring Break Begins in Galveston

More than 70 people were arrested on Friday across Galveston Island and in Texas City as spring break began and hundreds of high school seniors gathered for the unofficial “Senior Skip Day.”

Law enforcement agencies increased patrols after crowds gathered at Buc-ee’s in Texas City before heading to the island. Authorities said 10 firearms were confiscated during the operation, including two reported stolen.

Large crowds and heavy traffic forced police to temporarily close several beach access points on the west end of Galveston Island before reopening them later in the afternoon.

Tensions Push Oil Higher

Gas prices across Texas have risen as geopolitical tensions involving Iran push crude oil prices higher. AAA reports the statewide average price for regular gasoline has reached $2.87 per gallon, while the national average stands at $3.25.

Prices are also rising as refineries shift to summer-blend gasoline and travel demand increases ahead of spring break and seasonal road trips. In East Texas, drivers say they’re already noticing the jump at local stations.

AAA spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said the global oil market remains sensitive to international conflicts, adding that higher crude prices are putting upward pressure on gasoline costs nationwide.

A&M Plans Space Hub

Texas A&M University plans to open its $200 million Space Institute this fall near NASA’s Johnson Space Center, aiming to position Texas as a long-term hub for space exploration.

The four-story facility will sit on a 32-acre site and will feature the world’s largest indoor lunar and Martian landscapes—specialized testing environments designed for robotics, astronaut training, and mission simulations.

Institute leaders say the project aims to support decades of research related to future Moon and Mars missions. “It’s basically setting up Texas to be the center of two generations of future exploration,” said Associate Director Robert Ambrose.

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➤ Arlington: Globe Life Field unveiled a bronze statue honoring the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency, drawing criticism from local NAACP leaders who say the tribute revives controversy tied to the group’s history. (More)

➤ Dallas: IKEA on Wednesday will open its first store within Dallas city limits at The Shops at Park Lane, a two-story small-format location offering about 3,200 home goods items. (More)

➤ Round Rock: Developers broke ground on Origin at The District, a 316-unit luxury multifamily project with ground-level retail, launching vertical construction on the city’s larger mixed-use development. (More)

➤ Breckenridge: An early-morning lightning strike sparked a fire at an oilfield site on County Road 176, damaging six tank batteries and equipment. No injuries were reported. (More)

➤ Houston: Five Apache helicopters flying low over the city this week were preparing for Armed Forces Appreciation Day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, honoring service members. (More)

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➤ Two World Baseball Classic games are scheduled today at Houston’s Daikin Park. Great Britain and Italy will kick off the action at 1 p.m. Later, Brazil and Mexico will square off at 8 p.m. (See full schedule)

➤ No. 4 Texas women’s basketball rolled Alabama 83-60 on Friday to advance to the SEC tournament semifinals. (More)

➤ Dallas Stars’ franchise-record 10-game winning streak ended on Friday with a 5-4 shootout loss to the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche. (More)

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➤ Actress Michelle Pfeiffer said she felt “moved” visiting Taylor Sheridan’s 600-acre Bosque Ranch near Weatherford while discussing her role in the upcoming Paramount+ drama The Madison, which premieres on March 14. (More)

➤ SeaWorld San Antonio opened Barracuda Strike, the tallest inverted family roller coaster in North America, this weekend, sending riders beneath the track across 1,800 feet of twists and dives at up to 44 mph. (See Video)

➤ Blue Bell Creameries has launched a statewide free ice-cream tour, set to stop in major cities, handing out free hand-dipped ice cream, frozen snacks, and merchandise to thank communities for more than 100 years of support. (See Tour Details)

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Last Sunday in Longview.

Do you use checks?

Yesterday's Results:

Do you change the clock in your car when the time changes?

Yes: 52%
It changes by itself: 29%
No: 11%
Don't have a clock: 8%

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Today’s podcast newsletter is sponsored by Particle Face Cream for Men, a deeply nourishing and hydrating daily moisturizer designed specifically for men’s skin. With powerful anti-aging and smoothing benefits, this lightweight formula helps firm, replenish, and protect your face, so you look as great as you feel.

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Today’s episode of The Flyover Podcast with Amy Hess has a few stories you won’t find in today’s emailed edition, only in the podcast episode, because not everything fits in an inbox.

Here's a sneak peek of what we're diving into in today's Podcast Extra section:

➤ A veteran Republican stepped aside, throwing a key California district into turmoil. (Hear More)

➤ United Airlines is cracking down on loud videos and games during flights. (Listen Now)

➤ Home affordability is improving, yet the typical house is still out of reach. (Podcast Available)

Hit play and get the full scoop.

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Operation Silent Hand, New State Fishing Record, and Kayaking for a Cause

Sunday, March 8, 2026

Good Morning! In March of 1817, the first prisoner arrived at the Georgia Penitentiary in Milledgeville, marking the beginning of the state's first official prison and an important step in Georgia's development of a formal criminal justice system.

Georgians are serious about preserving the state's beautiful rivers and creeks. See how the city of Valdosta is helping to keep local waterways clean in Around Georgia. Then check out two kayakers who've made a 500-mile commitment to protect the Chattahoochee River in Et Cetera.

Today's sponsor, Sonic Glow Toothbrush, uses powerful sonic vibrations and built-in blue light technology to help remove plaque, protect sensitive gums, and promote a cleaner, brighter, healthier smile in just seconds a day.

Don't feel like reading the national edition of The Flyover? Tune in to The Flyover Podcast! New episodes drop daily—watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, all in under 15 minutes.

State of Emergency, Curfew Issued for Henry County

Henry County has declared a local state of emergency and issued a weekend curfew for minors that will remain in effect until Monday morning amid concerns about a planned "teen takeover" event at the Henry Town Center on Jonesboro Road.

The curfew requires everyone under the age of 18 to be off public streets by 7 p.m. unless they qualify for specific exceptions or are accompanied by a parent, guardian, or authorized adult.

The decisions were made in response to information circulating on social media regarding the planned event.

In recent weeks, over 30 arrests were made at similar gatherings in Atlanta.

16 Arrested in Drug Trafficking Operation

A multi-agency investigation, Operation Silent Hand, led to the arrest of 16 North Georgians who are accused of running a drug trafficking ring across six counties.

Thirty-two kilograms of suspected methamphetamine, 4 pounds of suspected fentanyl, numerous diverted pharmaceutical opioids, and multiple firearms were seized by authorities.

Investigators with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation stated that the group was sourcing its supplies from cartel-connected individuals in metro Atlanta, primarily Gwinnett County, and illegally diverting pharmaceuticals from local pain clinics. All of those arrested have been charged with violating the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Nearly 1,000 Laid Off From Battery Plant

SK Battery America Inc. has laid off 958 employees at its manufacturing plant in Commerce.

The job cuts come amid slowing demand for electric vehicles and shifts in automakers' electrification plans, including Ford's cancellation of the fully electric F‑150 Lightning pickup truck, a vehicle the plant had supplied batteries for.

Affected workers will receive pay through May 6.

"To align operations to market conditions, SK Battery America has made the difficult decision to reduce our workforce. We appreciate the contributions of employees and will be working with those affected during this transition," the company said in a statement.

Flying together with our sponsor

Support healthier teeth and gums with the Sonic Glow Toothbrush, an advanced sonic toothbrush designed to deliver a deep, gentle clean in seconds. Its high-frequency vibrations help break down plaque and bacteria along the gumline and between teeth—areas many manual brushes miss.

With consistent use, Sonic Glow Brush helps promote fresher breath, healthier gums, and a cleaner, more confident smile every day.

➤ Kennesaw: Yamaha Motor Co. will move its U.S. headquarters to the city from Cypress, California. The relocation is scheduled to begin at the end of this year and is expected to be completed by late 2028. (More)

➤ Hawkinsville: A local fisherman set a new state fishing record by catching a 31‑pound, 14‑ounce longnose gar at Lake Blackshear. (See Photo)

➤ Valdosta: The city secured a $98,250 grant to fund the installation of new trash‑catching equipment designed to intercept debris before it reaches local waterways. (More)

➤ Harlem: A new city park featuring a playground, splash pad, pavilion, and other amenities broke ground last week, with the project scheduled to be finished by the end of August. (More)

➤ Dunwoody: Two new dual-purpose K9s from the Czech Republic, Max and Zorro, have joined the Dunwoody Police Department. (More)

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➤ Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. roped a double on the first pitch he saw in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, helping lead team Venezuela to a 6-2 win over the Netherlands on Friday. (Watch Video)

➤ Georgia Southern men's basketball took on Coastal Carolina late last night in the Sun Belt Conference tournament quarterfinals. (See Score)

➤ No. 11 Georgia baseball defeated Queens 12-2 on Friday to improve to 12-3 on the season. Sophomore utility man Henry Allen ended the game early with this two-run home run to complete the run-rule victory. (Watch Video)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Struggling with knee pain that slows you down? Nu-Knee Brace delivers targeted compression and stabilization to help reduce swelling, relieve pressure, and support weak or injured knees. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable enough for daily wear, it helps improve mobility so you can walk, exercise, and stay active with less discomfort.

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ A dog missing for nearly a year was reunited with its family after the Lee County Animal Shelter identified the owners using the dog's microchip. (More)

➤ Music artist Lady Gaga donated $100,000 through her Born This Way Foundation to the Atlanta nonprofit COR Inc. during her tour stop in the city, supporting programs that provide resources to marginalized students and families. (More)

➤ Two men are kayaking 500 miles down the Chattahoochee River to raise money for conservation efforts supporting the river. (More)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Discover the QuadAir 4K Drone. A foldable, ultra-portable flying camera that's easy to pilot, captures stunning aerial 4K footage with a wide-angle lens, and offers up to ~30 minutes of flight time, making it perfect for travel, social-media videos, and unforgettable adventure shots while supplies last!