Texas city and cultural gateway
Torrential rain has driven dangerous floods across Texas Hill Country for a third day, triggering rescues and road washouts. Authorities warn waters will continue to rise, with last year’s deadly floods weighing on response efforts.
Six people have died in a sealed, unventilated shipping container at a Laredo rail yard after being smuggled on a freight train. A seventh person was left for dead along the route. The Webb County medical examiner suspects hyperthermia, and the U.S. Attorney has charged 11 defendants with conspiracy and transporting aliens resulting in death.
A new AP-NORC survey finds 39% of US adults approve of Donald Trump’s immigration handling, down from 49% earlier in his term. Republican backing remains high on immigration, but overall popularity has declined, with mixed views on Iran and the economy.
Moderna has won FDA approval for its mRNA flu vaccine mFlusiva for adults 50–64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older. The decision follows a contentious review earlier this year, a unanimous advisory panel recommendation in June and political disputes inside US health agencies over mRNA vaccines. Retail availability is expected in coming weeks.
Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old American teacher detained in Russia since 2022, has been in a dissociative stupor for 47 days and has developed a high fever and elevated blood pressure. He has been moved from prison to a civilian hospital, put on a feeding tube and remains handcuffed to his bed while the U.S. State Department has raised his case with Russian authorities.
Andy Green has reached 406.320 mph in JCB’s Hydromax at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats, setting a Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile‑certified record for hydrogen internal combustion cars. The 64‑year‑old former RAF pilot drove a 32ft vehicle powered by two hydrogen engines producing 1,600 horsepower. JCB is using the result to promote hydrogen for heavy industry.
A U.S. Marine veteran, Jonathan Gilman, has been returned to the United States from Russia on a humanitarian basis after facing extended prison time and worsening health. He has landed at Dulles, been flown to San Antonio for medical and psychological care, and been described by officials as walking, talking and evaluated by doctors on the flight.
Multiple beluga whales from Marineland have been relocated to five marine parks, including Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, under a government-approved rescue plan. The latest update confirms continued transfers, while concerns over animal welfare and sanctuary availability persist.
Updated: Crispy baked buffalo chicken tacos are served with a protein ranch dressing and a crunchy collard slaw. The dish, drawn from a cookbook, is scalable for dairy-free and grain-free diets and includes tips for leftovers and variations.
A mix of mortgage rates remaining elevated and inventory growth is shaping US and UK housing markets. Cash sales have cooled, financed buyers are gaining ground, and prices show modest changes in several markets. Analysts warn of continued affordability challenges and potential further rate-related pressure.
Two food stories unfold today: In‑N‑Out has announced bun, salt, and ketchup ingredient updates across 10 states, while UK butter buyers face higher prices and expanding product choices as butter remains central to home cooking.
The Knicks have paused individual ticket sales after a pricing error sent early prices soaring. They are rolling back to last year’s prices with an average 12% increase and will refund buyers who already purchased tickets. Sales will restart next week at moderated prices.
A lawsuit filed in San Antonio accuses Texas leaders and medical officials of upholding a near-total abortion ban that endangered Tierra Walker, who died in December 2024 after facing life-threatening pregnancy complications. The suit argues the emergency exception is effectively unusable and seeks accountability for preventable deaths.
Jalen Brunson has hosted Saturday Night Live, becoming the first Knicks player to host since 2007. The episode opened the Knicks’ season after their title victory, featuring questions from Brunson’s teammates in the monologue and a series of sketches.
Investigators have found more than 10 housing units outside regular prison cells at Cibinong Prison in Bogor, near Jakarta, with amenities such as air conditioning, TVs, fridges, sofas and dining areas. A gym and a golf simulator are under construction. Five officials have been suspended as authorities examine whether inmates received special accommodations through bribery.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has disclosed credible information about a planned violent attack in Austin. Benny Caldera Jr. was arrested in Converse near San Antonio after a tip led SWAT to a residence. He faces potential charges including felony terroristic threat against a public servant; federal authorities are involved.
Prices for Halloween candy have surged since 2021, with inflation hitting 71% while typical bags now cost about 17 cents per piece. Reports from New York Post and New York Times show consumers facing higher costs, prompting shoppers to change buying habits and consider alternatives.
An Air Force Tech. Sgt. has died after a fast-rope demonstration at the Alamodome during UTSA vs. Navy. The incident is under investigation; UTSA and local authorities are offering support to those affected, and the Air Force is coordinating with partners as the incident unfolds.