ICYMI: 5 Things That Mattered In Local News Last Week

HOUSTON, TX — Another week produced another long list of stories in the Greater Houston area. Though crime seemed to dominate many Patch headlines this week, some of the bigger stories happened outside of the region, but their impact on the area is why they made the news. Without further ado, here are five stories that mattered in Houston this week.

13 Texas Lawmakers In Train Crash

Senator Ted Cruz and 12 U.S. Representatives were among the GOP lawmakers involved in a train crash Wednesday on the way to West Virginia for a GOP policy retreat. Texas had the most lawmakers on the train and the highest percentage. The passenger of the dump truck that was struck by the train died, but no lawmakers were injured. And here's what happens if the worst would've happened that day.

Gov. Abbott Orders Texas Rangers To Investigate Karolyi Ranch

Last Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered the Texas Rangers to investigate sexual assaults and other criminal activity at the Karolyi Ranch near New Waverly, just south of Huntsville.

Mattress Mack Attends State Of The Union Address

Jim McIngvale, a.k.a. Mattress Mack, was the guest of Representative Kevin Brady for President Donald Trump's first State of the Union speech on Tuesday night.

An Agave Plant Shortage Could Increase The Price Of Tequila

Mexican farmers who grow Agave tequilana, more commonly known as blue agave, don't have enough supply to keep up with the worldwide demand of tequila. Prices have already increased six-fold for distributors, and the cost could trickle down to the consumers. That means margaritas and tequila shots could have a more sobering effect on your wallet.

School athletics get realigned

The UIL announced its biennial realignment on Thursday. Here's how it affects local football, volleyball and basketball teams.

Image: Some bars fear that a tequila shortage may be around the corner. (Photo by Chris Hondros/Newsmakers via Getty Images)