Author: DispatchTimes News Desk

Houston is set for a warmer Thursday, with inland temperatures expected to reach the upper 80sF while coastal areas remain in the low 80s amid increasing humidity. The National Weather Service in Houston and Galveston said warm, dry conditions should persist through early next week, with mostly sunny skies and only light winds expected across the region. Residents with allergies have also been warned that ragweed pollen levels are high. An ozone action day is in effect for Houston, Galveston and surrounding areas, with sensitive groups advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon. Clear skies could provide good…

Christie Whelan Browne has hit back at online attacks after being announced as Sal Kerrigan in the forthcoming stage adaptation of The Castle. The award-winning musical theatre performer was named as part of the cast on Tuesday, taking the role of the loving matriarch in the much-loved Australian film. Within a day, she was responding to social media comments questioning her involvement in the production. Whelan Browne said she should have been able to celebrate the opportunity after years of professional work, but claimed online discussions had been dominated by personal attacks and untrue claims about her. “Moments like the…

The UK is seeking tougher punishments to deter undersea pipeline attacks.

New World screwworm has been detected in US wildlife for the first time after an elk was found infected in Pecos County, Texas, the US Department of Agriculture said. The elk was on a game ranch and the infection was reported after the animal was harvested by a hunter. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service said the discovery had prompted further wildlife surveillance in the area. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is assisting with the checks, while the Texas Animal Health Commission will amend an infested zone previously established in the state. New World screwworm is a…

Pope Leo XIV needs no further treatment for lung cancer after doctors confirmed the disease had not spread following surgery, the Vatican has said. The 71-year-old pontiff had the lower lobe of his right lung removed on October 13 after doctors diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma. His lead surgeon, Stefano Margaritora, and personal physician, Luigi Carbone, said an oncological assessment had found that “no further therapy is required”. Leo was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic on Saturday, four days after the operation. He returned to St Peter’s Square on Wednesday for his weekly audience with pilgrims, having earlier appeared at the window…

Former NFL player Cordarrelle Patterson was arrested following a reported domestic disturbance, with photographs showing him handcuffed and being led away by police. The images, taken on Saturday, show the former Pro Bowl running back and return specialist wearing a grey T-shirt and shorts, with his hands restrained behind his back. Patterson was booked on a domestic assault charge after officers responded to a call at the property. According to the arrest warrant, Patterson’s wife told police that he had physically assaulted her by grabbing her hair and left upper arm. An officer said bruising was observed on her arm.…

Michael Carrick has defended his decisions and criticised Manchester United’s lack of effort after captain Bruno Fernandes questioned the coaching staff following a 4-1 defeat by Como. The result extended Carrick’s winless run to seven matches, a sharp reversal after he guided United to 12 victories in 17 games as caretaker manager towards the end of last season and secured the job on a permanent basis. Michael Carrick responds after Como defeat Asked about Fernandes’ criticism of his tactics, Carrick said the team could not expect to win without committing fully in both directions. “There’s a little bit of whatever…

Pat Dixon is presenting his campaign for governor of Texas as a long-term attempt to widen voter choice, rather than a protest bid, as early voting gathers pace ahead of the November 3 election. The Libertarian candidate is challenging Republican incumbent Greg Abbott and Democrat Gina Hinojosa in a race where the two major parties remain firmly in control of the political landscape. In a recent University of Houston poll, Dixon received 2% support among likely voters. ([campusnet.uh.edu](https://campusnet.uh.edu/hobby/texas2026/index.php?utm_source=openai)) Texas began in-person early voting on October 19, with voters able to cast ballots until October 30. The state’s general election will…

The Sir George in Jugiong has been praised as a destination in its own right, rather than merely a convenient stop off the Hume Highway, combining the atmosphere of a historic pub with a rural retreat. The sprawling hotel offers book-lined rooms, open fires and low lighting, creating a cosy setting for a menu that ranges from spice-laden fioretti fritti with fried curry leaves to a rich coq au vin. In warmer weather, live music moves into the expansive garden, where the kitchen serves balloon-edged pizzas with crisp, biscuit-like bases. A parma is also available, but the pork cotoletta is…

Donald Trump’s campaign rally in South Carolina was interrupted by at least six protesters during its opening 20 minutes as he urged voters to support Darline Graham, his chosen candidate to replace her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham, in the US Senate. The disruptions repeatedly halted the president’s address at the T. Ed Garrison Arena in Pendleton on Wednesday night, where he was campaigning ahead of the midterm elections. Trump also renewed his attacks on Darline Graham’s Democratic opponent, Annie Andrews, whom he has nicknamed “Tranny Annie”. The president has alleged that Ms Andrews supports pro-transgender policies. Protesters were removed…