SUMMARY: Massive wildfires swept through Los Angeles, destroying homes and killing at least two people. Three major blazes erupted, blanketing the city in smoke and ash, with over 1,000 structures lost and thousands forced to evacuate, including many in affluent neighborhoods. Firefighters, aided by out-of-state personnel, battled intense flames fueled by hurricane-force winds. The fires have burned about 22 square miles, marking the most destructive incident in LA’s history. As conditions worsened, California officials urged residents to conserve water and prepared for potential utility shutoffs. President Biden promised federal aid, while the city remains on high alert.

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SUMMARY: In fiscal 2024, Texas’ oil and natural gas industry set multiple records, including paying a record $27.3 billion in taxes and royalties, surpassing last year’s figure by nearly $1 billion. This amount is more than the total tax revenues of 34 states. These funds support essential services such as public schools, universities, and roads. The industry is a major contributor to the state’s education funds, with royalties going into the Permanent School Fund and Permanent University Fund. The industry also significantly funds local school districts and counties, especially in West Texas’ Permian Basin, where it constitutes the majority of the tax base.

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SUMMARY: Wildfires ravaged the Los Angeles area, particularly impacting the Eaton Fire that erupted near a nature preserve, quickly consuming over 100 structures and spreading across 2,227 acres by Wednesday. Residents of a senior living center were evacuated under threat from the advancing flames. In Pacific Palisades, many fled on foot as roadblocks caused chaos. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, deploying over 1,400 firefighting personnel. High winds, part of the Santa Ana system, exacerbated the situation, and evacuation orders affected around 30,000 residents. Power outages impacted over 200,000 people as firefighters battled multiple uncontained blazes throughout the region.

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