45 arrested, $74K seized in Newton County dog fighting bust

Authorities in Newton County, Texas, arrested 45 people and seized $73,858 during a raid on an alleged dog fighting ring under Operation Pitbull. Deputies, assisted by state agencies, intervened while a fight was in progress, rescued two injured dogs and transported them for emergency veterinary care. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office said the case began after months of community complaints and remains under active investigation, with additional charges possible.

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Houston Humane Society asks community to foster pets this holiday season

Houston Humane Society is asking Houston-area residents to provide short-term foster homes for dogs and cats during the holiday season. The nonprofit supplies food, crates, and veterinary care for foster pets and offers flexible options, including weekend-only fostering. Staff use foster stays to learn about each animal’s behavior in a home and to improve adoption chances with better photos and information. Residents interested in fostering can contact Houston Humane Society by phone at 713-433-6421 or by email at info@houstonhumane.org.

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Cassandra Ong reportedly last seen in Japan

Philippine authorities reported that Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, charged with qualified human trafficking over her alleged links to the Lucky South 99 offshore gaming hub in Porac, Pampanga, was last tracked in Japan after her release from detention, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, which continues to coordinate with domestic and foreign agencies to monitor her whereabouts and pursue the ongoing case as part of wider efforts against organized crime and human trafficking connected to offshore gaming operations.

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Rob Deniel honors Original Pilipino Music

Philippine singer-songwriter Rob Deniel, 22, pays tribute to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) through a growing catalog of self-written songs and performances that media outlets, including the Philippine Daily Inquirer, have featured. This news article reports how Deniel’s original compositions, live appearances, and recordings position him among the most visible young OPM artists in the Philippines. It details his role in contemporary Filipino music, the platforms that carry his work, and the coverage that highlights his contributions to the OPM tradition.

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Marcos urges space science, technology to benefit the public

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday highlighted in Manila the role of space science and technology in boosting the Philippines’ climate resilience, disaster response and sustainable development efforts. He outlined how satellite data supports weather forecasting, hazard mapping, damage assessment, resource monitoring and planning for infrastructure and land use. Marcos also stressed the importance of education, research, inter-agency coordination and partnerships with local and international stakeholders to expand space-based services. The government plans to align space initiatives with national priorities on climate action, food security, environmental protection and inclusive growth while promoting innovation and responsible use of public funds.

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Marcos receives strong endorsement from state governors

Governors from across the Philippines reaffirmed their support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during a meeting in Malacañang in Manila, where they discussed national programs, local development priorities, and coordination with the national government amid ongoing controversies surrounding the administration, according to the Presidential Communications Office. Malacañang officials said major business groups also maintain their backing for the government’s economic agenda and continue to coordinate with the Office of the President on investments and public-private partnerships. The article details the issues raised by governors, the responses from national agencies, and the follow-up actions that the government plans to undertake with local chief executives and private sector representatives.

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U.S. lawmakers warn peace plan may tilt in Russia’s favor

U.S. lawmakers on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the Congressional Ukraine Caucus voiced concern over a reported Ukraine-Russia peace plan they say appears to favor Moscow. They called for details on how the proposal emerged, who was involved, and whether it aligns with existing U.S. policy on Ukraine, sanctions, and European security. Members also pressed for formal briefings from the Trump administration, raised questions about possible back-channel discussions, and stressed that any peace initiative must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law.

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Whooping cough cases rise 58% in Austin-Travis County, APH warns

Austin Public Health reports that Austin-Travis County has recorded more than 130 whooping cough (pertussis) cases so far this year, marking a 58% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Health officials say the rise spans multiple age groups and neighborhoods and emphasize vaccination, early diagnosis, and isolation during the contagious period as key steps to limit spread. The department continues to monitor case data, coordinate with state health authorities, and provide guidance to schools, childcare facilities, and healthcare providers across the county.

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Adolis García among 66 cut loose; India leads 34 players who reached agreements

Major League Baseball’s non-tender deadline on November 15, 2024, sent 66 players into free agency, including Texas Rangers outfielder Adolis García, catcher Jonah Heim and right-hander Josh Sborz. Another 34 arbitration-eligible players agreed to contracts before the cutoff, led by Kansas City infielder Jonathan India at $8 million for 2025. The moves reshaped rosters and payroll plans across the league and expanded the free agent market ahead of the 2025 season.

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