SUMMARY: Lawmakers in Washington are racing to pass a new funding bill to prevent a government shutdown after a last-minute measure collapsed yesterday. The bill, opposed by President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and his allies, failed to gain support. Trump called for a clean bill without what he labeled “Democrat giveaways.” House Republicans later declared the bill dead. Democrats criticized the outcome, warning that it reflects poorly on the new Congress and administration. The White House warned a shutdown would hurt Americans who rely on services like Social Security and urged Republicans to honor their commitments.

This comes after a last-minute spending bill collapsed on Wednesday.

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SUMMARY: In July, police discovered 28-year-old Ryan Zala dead in a bathtub, with fentanyl in his system. Detectives linked his death to Caleb Toledo, who Zala had messaged on Facebook regarding drug purchases. Toledo was arrested following the investigation. Meanwhile, Williamson County has received a $1.6 million federal grant to combat overdose fatalities and substance use. This funding will help open a new recovery center, offering support group meetings and resources to the community, aiming to address increasing local needs and ultimately save lives, including those affected by overdoses like Zala’s.

A Pflugerville man wanted for murder in connection to a fentanyl overdose death has been arrested.

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SUMMARY: A family in Independence Heights is seeking help after a thief stole a sentimental life-size Nutcracker decoration from their porch, captured on doorbell video. The homeowner, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared that the Nutcracker had only been displayed for about a week, marking their baby’s first Christmas. The theft has left them shocked and disappointed, as they’ve never experienced such an incident before. The family plans to report the theft to the Houston police and intends to secure their future decorations more carefully. They hope someone will recognize the thief or that the Nutcracker finds its way back home.

An Independence Heights family had a rude awakening Monday morning when they realized their life-size Nutcracker decoration on the front porch vanished in the middle of the night.

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