A highly contagious disease, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), is spreading among ducks and other birds in Harris County and across Texas, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. This outbreak poses a potential risk not only to birds but also to household pets like dogs and cats.
Kelly Norrid, a spokesperson for the department, told theHouston Chroniclethat HPAI has been confirmed in multiple ducks throughout Harris County.
“Much like influenza that impacts humans, avian influenza could be a returning or new strain,” Norrid explained.
Since December, there have been numerous positive HPAI test results in Houston, Harris County, and other parts of Texas. The disease’s reach includes cases among domestic ducks in Northwest Austin and reports of wild birds in Wharton, El Paso, and Potter counties. Recently, a sick bald eagle was also identified in northwest Harris County.
How Does HPAI Affect Pets?
Muscovy ducks, an invasive species commonly found in Houston, have been hit particularly hard. While their decline may benefit native species, these ducks can spread the virus to other birds and potentially to cats and dogs.
Norrid warned that prolonged exposure to infected ducks or consuming contaminated birds could infect pets with HPAI. “If dogs or cats consume or carry around an infected duck, they can become infected,” Norrid told the Houston Chronicle. Pet owners are advised to keep cats indoors and dogs away from duck ponds, especially in areas where sick ducks congregate.
Safely dispose of sick, dead, or dying birds using rubber gloves and masks, sealing carcasses in plastic bags before discarding them.
Avoid walking pets near areas where sick ducks have been observed.
After walking in potentially contaminated areas, leave shoes outside and wash hands thoroughly.
“If you have been walking in an area that you think is positive for the virus, maybe leave your shoes in the garage. Wash your hands. Take precautions as if you were trying to stop the spread of a disease that affects humans,” Norrid said.
Why It Matters for Pet Owners
The migratory flight routes across Houston and the Gulf Coast bring a steady influx of birds, increasing the potential for disease spread. These migratory birds can land in lakes or ponds with infected ducks, picking up the virus and carrying it to new locations. This keeps HPAI circulating in the environment, posing ongoing risks to wildlife and pets.
For pet owners, vigilance is crucial. By keeping pets away from potentially infected birds and following TPWD guidelines, you can help protect your furry family members from this dangerous disease. Stay alert, stay informed, and take the necessary precautions to keep your pets safe.
After 15 months of relentless conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced early Friday that an agreement has been reached to pause the war in Gaza.
The deal includes the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.
“I have instructed a special task force to prepare for the hostages’ return from Gaza,” Netanyahu said, adding that their families have been informed about the breakthrough, according to the Associated Press.
This agreement also aims to allow hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to their homes, many of which have been left in ruins due to the ongoing violence. However, the deal has sparked intense debate within Netanyahu’s coalition government. Hardline members, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have expressed strong opposition, threatening to resign if the ceasefire proceeds. Ben-Gvir described the agreement as “reckless” and warned it would “destroy all of Israel’s achievements.”
Despite these internal divisions, the ceasefire has been widely welcomed by international mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, who played significant roles in brokering the deal. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty urged both sides to “implement the ceasefire without delay,” emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The conflict, which escalated after Hamas’ October 2023 cross-border attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis and took 250 hostages, has devastated Gaza. Local health officials report that more than 46,000 Palestinians have died, with women and children accounting for over half of the fatalities. The military campaign has displaced 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, leaving many in squalid tent camps.
“Enough with the destruction and killing,” pleaded Omar Jendiya, a resident of Deir al-Balah, highlighting the despair among Gaza’s population.
As part of the agreement, the initial release of 33 hostages is expected within the next six weeks. In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Humanitarian aid will also be increased, and Israeli forces are set to withdraw from some areas in Gaza. However, significant challenges remain. Hamas has signaled that the release of additional hostages will depend on a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal, while Israel insists it will continue efforts to dismantle the militant group.
The deal has also raised questions about the future of Gaza post-conflict. Reconstruction efforts will be monumental, and debates continue over who will govern the territory moving forward. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has expressed concern over the high civilian death toll in Gaza but has supported efforts to achieve a ceasefire.
With the conflict entering a new phase, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this agreement can lead to lasting peace or merely a temporary pause in hostilities. As Netanyahu convenes his security Cabinet to finalize the deal, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution to one of the most devastating conflicts in recent history.
In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden will not enforce a looming ban on the social media app TikTok, set to take effect a day before his term ends. A U.S. official confirmed Thursday that the outgoing administration is leaving the enforcement of the ban to President-elect Donald Trump, signaling a significant shift in the app’s uncertain future.
Last year, Congress passed a law signed by Biden requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, to divest its U.S. operations by January 19, the day before the presidential inauguration. However, implementation of the law remains unresolved as Biden departs office.
Incoming President Donald Trump, who once advocated banning TikTok over national security concerns, has since embraced the platform, pledging to keep it operational in the U.S. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, with reports suggesting he may receive prime seating on the dais. Incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz hinted that the new administration is open to finding a solution to prevent TikTok from “going dark.”
“The federal law allows for an extension as long as a viable deal is on the table,” Waltz told Fox News on Thursday.
The debate over TikTok has garnered bipartisan attention. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Biden to extend the deadline, emphasizing the app’s role in supporting millions of American users and influencers. “It’s clear that more time is needed to find an American buyer and not disrupt the lives and livelihoods of so many influencers who have built up a good network of followers,” Schumer stated.
However, Republican Senator Tom Cotton opposed the extension, labeling TikTok as a threat. “TikTok is a Chinese Communist spy app that addicts our kids, harvests their data, targets them with harmful and manipulative content, and spreads communist propaganda,” Cotton said.
The issue has also reached the Supreme Court, where justices recently heard oral arguments on the law mandating ByteDance’s divestment. Legal experts believe the court is likely to uphold the statute. Waltz suggested Trump’s administration would act decisively if the court supports the law. “President Trump has been very clear: TikTok is a great platform, but he’s going to protect [Americans’] data,” he said.
Trump’s evolving stance on TikTok is notable. Initially, he sought to ban the app during his first term, citing national security concerns. However, his campaign’s use of the platform during the 2024 election to connect with younger voters has reshaped his view. Trump credited TikTok with helping him capture youth votes, pledging during the campaign to “save TikTok.”
As the Biden administration hands over responsibility for TikTok to Trump, the app’s future hangs in the balance. Whether the incoming administration will successfully broker a deal or enforce the ban remains to be seen.
Nintendo has officially unveiled the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, sharing a first look in a YouTube video that highlights the console’s updated design and features. As the successor to the widely popular original Switch, the Switch 2 retains the modular concept that made its predecessor a hit while introducing several notable improvements.
Larger Console and Redesigned Joy-Cons
One of the most prominent changes is the console’s size. The Switch 2 boasts a larger display, though a noticeable bezel remains around the screen. Alongside the size increase, the Joy-Con controllers have undergone a significant redesign. They are larger to accommodate the bigger screen and now feature a more rounded design for improved ergonomics. The controllers attach magnetically to the console’s sides, offering a seamless modular experience.
Sleek and Minimalist Aesthetic
Aesthetic changes also stand out. Unlike the original Switch’s vibrant, colorful options, the Switch 2 leans into a more understated look, with an all-black design accented by subtle colors near the controller sticks and the tops of the Joy-Cons. The result is a sleek, modern appearance.
Dockable Functionality and Improved Kickstand
The console retains its dockable functionality, enabling players to connect it to a TV. Detached Joy-Con controllers can be used individually or snapped onto a controller grip for a traditional gaming experience. For handheld gaming, the Switch 2 includes a redesigned kickstand. This new version is sturdier and more reliable than the original’s, providing better support during gameplay. Additionally, the USB-C charging port has been relocated to the top of the device, making it easier to charge while playing in handheld mode.
Backward Compatibility with Original Switch Games
Compatibility is another highlight of the Switch 2. Nintendo confirmed that it will support games from the original Switch, both physical and digital. A cartridge slot at the top of the device allows players to continue using their favorite physical games from the first generation.
A Glimpse at Upcoming Games
The reveal video featured only one game, a Mario Kart title that closely resembles Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It remains unclear whether this is a revamped version of the existing game or an entirely new installment in the franchise.
Enhanced Hardware and Future Announcements
Under the hood, the Switch 2 is expected to include upgraded internal components, making it capable of handling more demanding games. However, Nintendo has yet to provide detailed information about the hardware improvements.
Pricing and release details are still under wraps, but Nintendo has announced that more information will be shared during a Nintendo Direct livestream on April 2, 2025. This timeline suggests that the Switch 2’s release is still several months away.
With its larger size, enhanced controllers, and backward compatibility, the Nintendo Switch 2 appears poised to build on the success of the original console while addressing fan feedback and modern gaming demands. Gamers around the world are eagerly awaiting further details on what this next-generation console has to offer.
Stay tuned for more Gaming updates with us on QueOndaMagazine.com
Tickets for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo performances will go on sale today in two separate waves. Here’s everything you need to know to secure your spot at this iconic event.
Ticket Sale Details
Performances from March 4 to March 13 will go on sale at 10 a.m. Thursday.
Performances from March 14 to March 23 will go on sale at 2 p.m. Thursday.
Purchasing Process
A waiting room will open 30 minutes before each wave, and ticket buyers will be randomly selected to make their purchase. It’s important to note that entering the waiting room does not guarantee tickets.
Key Takeaways from President Biden’s Farewell Address
As President Joe Biden concluded his term and a remarkable five-decade political career, his farewell address highlighted key themes of democracy, accountability, and legacy. Delivered from the Oval Office, the 17-minute speech encapsulated his reflections on leadership, his warnings for the future, and his hopes for the nation.
1. Warning Against Oligarchy
Biden raised alarms about a “dangerous concentration of power” among billionaires, warning that an American “oligarchy” threatens democracy, fairness, and opportunity. Citing the influence of tech entrepreneurs and wealthy political figures, he urged vigilance against the abuse of power and emphasized the need for equitable rules.
2. The Rise of the “Tech Industrial Complex”
Drawing parallels to President Eisenhower’s warning about the “military-industrial complex,” Biden cautioned against a growing “tech industrial complex.” He criticized social media companies for enabling misinformation and called for accountability to protect democracy, families, and children.
3. Reflecting on His Presidency
Biden recalled the challenges he inherited, including a pandemic and economic crisis following the January 6th Capitol attack. He expressed pride in accomplishments such as historic infrastructure spending, clean-energy investments, and boosting the microchip industry. “The seeds are planted,” he said, noting that some benefits will take years to fully materialize.
4. Foreign Policy Achievements
Biden highlighted his efforts to restore alliances and support Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion. On the day of his address, he announced a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, ensuring the release of hostages, including Americans.
5. Calls for Institutional Reforms
The outgoing president renewed calls for Supreme Court term limits, congressional stock trading bans, and clearer accountability for presidential misconduct. “The president’s power is not unlimited. It’s not absolute,” he emphasized.
6. Acknowledgment of Challenges
With a 34% approval rating, Biden faced criticism from within his party for delaying his exit from the 2024 race. Despite this, he affirmed belief in his legacy, recognizing Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, for their service.
7. A Final Call to Action
Biden closed with a heartfelt appeal to the American people: “May you all be the keeper of the flame. May you keep the faith.” As he prepares to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, Biden leaves behind a complex legacy marked by significant achievements and contentious moments.
In his final message, Biden expressed gratitude, love for America, and hope for its future: “I love America. You love it, too. God bless you all, and may God protect our troops.”
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department said the suspect accused of shooting and killing Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas was shot to death, ending an hours-long manhunt.
The initial shooting happened shortly before noon on Stella Link Road, just north of the South Loop.
The sheriff’s office said Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was taken to Ben Taub Hospital, where he died.
Authorities said Vargas served the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office for 17 years. He leaves behind a wife and three children.
Shortly after authorities conducted a news conference about the search for the suspect, a “Blue Alert” was sent across the state.
WATCH: ABC13 WAS LIVE AS DETAILS DEVELOPED
ABC13 brought you live coverage as details were developing into the investigation of Brazoria County deputy Jesus Vargas’ shooting death.
The manhunt continued for nearly five hours until the suspect, identified as Robert Lee Davis, aka Sean Christopher Davis, was shot and killed by law enforcement.
Sources told Eyewitness News that he was hiding in a dumpster in an alleyway the entire time, near the initial shooting. A U.S. Marshall K-9, Rocky, alerted authorities, which led to Davis’ discovery.
UPDATE: A short time ago, the suspect was shot by law enforcement officers behind the businesses near the original shooting scene here on Stella Link. The suspect is deceased.
Davis reportedly shot Rocky twice when authorities opened the dumpster, prompting officers to return fire.
A DPS helicopter rushed the federal K-9 to the Westbury Animal Hospital.
“This afternoon, we lost a local hero,” Mayor John Whitmire said. “(Vargas) attempted to apprehend a repeat violence offender, and he lost his life. The suspect shot (Vargas) as he approached him to serve the warrant.”
Records show Davis has a criminal history dating back to 1990, the most recent being from December 2024 for aggravated sexual assault charges against a relative.
“There is evil in this world. There are demonic people in this world,” U.S. Marshall Chief Michael O’Connor said. “Law enforcement stands steadfast to pursue this evilness and the demonic nature as they are predators preying on the public.”
WATCH: Authorities provide an update after suspect in deputy’s death was shot and killed
Authorities provide an update after a suspect wanted for Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas’ death was shot and killed, HPD says.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A judge has granted the state’s motion to recuse District Court Judge Natalia Cornelio from a high-profile death row appeal after she was accused of bias.
Wednesday’s ruling comes after the Harris County District Attorney’s Office wanted Cornelio to be removed from Ronald Lee Haskell’s case after she ordered him back to Harris County under unusual circumstances last summer.
The initial motion for her recusal was filed Oct. 7, 2024, “based on conduct indicating that she has cast aside her role as a neutral, detached decision maker to become an advocate for death row inmate Ronald Lee Haskell,” it reads.
Haskell was given the death penalty in 2019. He was charged with six counts of capital murder for the shooting deaths of six of his family members at their Spring home in 2014.
The crime was described as a “massacre” and the victims included four children, ages four to 13, and their parents, Katie and Stephen Stay. Katie was the sister of Haskell’s ex-wife, whom he stalked, authorities said. Cassidy Stay, just 15 years old at the time, was the only survivor.
Court records show that on June 27, Cornelio issued a bench warrant for Haskell to appear in her courtroom a month later at midnight.
The DA’s office said that never happened, and they had no idea Haskell had been moved from TDCJ custody.
Instead, during Haskell’s nearly three-week stay at the Harris County Jail, he called his mother, acknowledging the secretive nature of his presence, calling it “cloak and dagger,” according to a jail call transcript.
He was also taken to a private imaging clinic near the Texas Medical Center for a scan as seen in still images from body camera video that were filed with the court.
Drue Lyon is Katie Stay’s brother.
“The inmate was feet — three or four feet — away from some random guy sitting at the doctor’s office, waiting for his name to be called. Did that guy know he was feet away from a mass murderer?” Lyon asked. “Who on Earth has that much power and authority? Who authorized that?”
The defense argued the state didn’t have enough evidence to firmly prove Cornelio was incapable of impartiality, but on Wednesday, Judge Susan Brown ruled otherwise.
ABC13 spoke to Joshua Reiss with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office following her ruling in their favor.
“What was very clear is that the victims of Ron Haskell were never going to have a fair shot,” Reiss said.
This article comes from our news partner, ABC13. To read the article, click here.
This developing story comes from our news partner ABC13. For more on this developing story, click here.
The agreement, which was brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, is currently being finalized, Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, announced during remarks in Doha late Wednesday. The Israelis will take the agreement back to their government for approval, he said.
The agreement will begin on Sunday, with the first, six-week phase seeing the withdrawal of some Israeli forces to allow more aid to get in and the release of 33 hostages in Gaza, starting with women, children and the elderly, according to the Qatari prime minister. A number of Palestinian prisoners will be released, as well, he said.
According to the Hamas delegation in Doha, the provisions Hamas agreed to include the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, including the Philadelphi corridor, in stages, and handing over 33 Israeli prisoners, dead and alive, in exchange for the release of 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations would be completed in stages for the release of the remaining hostages, according to the Hamas delegation.
The Israeli prime minister’s office said in a statement that they resolved an issue over forces on the Philadelphi corridor, though there are several “unresolved clauses” in the deal they hope to finalize Wednesday night.
Israel said its security cabinet will convene on Thursday to approve the deal.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog said the deal is “the right move” and called upon the Israeli government to approve it.
“There is no greater moral, human, Jewish, or Israeli obligation than to bring our sons and daughters back to us — whether to recover at home, or to be laid to rest,” he said.
Ariel Schalit/AP Photo
The provisions also include the opening of the Rafah crossing, according to the Hamas delegation. Coordination is currently underway to open the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing to allow the entry of international aid into Gaza, an Egyptian security source told ABC News.
The second and third phases of the agreement will be finalized after the first phase, the Qatari prime minister said. Phase two will mark a “permanent end of the war,” President Joe Biden said during remarks Wednesday.
Under phase two, the remaining living hostages will be released and all remaining Israeli forces will withdraw from Gaza, according to Biden. The remains of the final hostages will be returned in phase three and a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza will begin,” Biden said.
Biden said the mediating countries have pledged to ensure that negotiations move forward “as long as it takes,” and that his team is coordinating closely with the incoming Trump administration “to make sure we’re all speaking with the same voice.”
The Qatari prime minister said Egypt, Qatar and the U.S. will monitor the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.
“With this agreement, I emphasize the importance of accelerating the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza to address the catastrophic humanitarian crisis, without any hindrances, until a sustainable peace is achieved through the two-state solution, and for the region to enjoy stability, security and development in a world that is large enough for everyone,” Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said in a statement.
The United Nations is ready to support the implementation of the deal and “scale up the delivery of sustained humanitarian relief,” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement Wednesday.
From left to right: Vice President Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are seen in Washington D.C. on Jan. 15, 2025.
In over a year of war between Israel and Hamas, more than 46,000 people have been killed in Gaza and almost 110,000 injured, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. That figure does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. However, more than 14,000 children and 8,000 women have been killed, according to the health ministry.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they have killed more than 15,000 combatants throughout the course of the war, which was sparked by the unprecedented Hamas terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023, in southern Israel. More than 1,200 people were killed and another 253 were taken hostage, according to Israeli authorities.
During a weeklong ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in late November 2023, Hamas freed more than 100 people. In exchange, Israel released more than 200 Palestinians from Israeli prisons. Several hostages in Gaza have also been freed in the months since, while the bodies of others have been recovered.
Amid the renewed negotiations in early January, 94 abductees remained in Gaza, including 34 who have been confirmed dead, according to Israeli officials.
Hamas is currently advising Palestinians to remain alert until the official start of the agreement and to rely on official sources for information on the timing of the ceasefire.
Following news of a ceasefire and hostage deal being reached on Wednesday, people could be seen celebrating across Gaza and Israel.
Biden said the deal followed “many months of intensive diplomacy by the United States, along with Egypt and Qatar.”
“This deal will halt the fighting in Gaza, surge much-needed humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, and reunite the hostages with their families after more than 15 months in captivity,” Biden said in a statement.
“My diplomacy never ceased in their efforts to get this done,” he added.
Biden said he is determined to bring seven American hostages home, three of whom are alive. Americans will be part of the first phase of the hostage release, with more details to come on who will be included in the first phase, he said.
President-elect Donald Trump also said Wednesday that a hostage deal has been reached, writing in a Truth Social post, “WE HAVE A DEAL FOR THE HOSTAGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST. THEY WILL BE RELEASED SHORTLY. THANK YOU!”
Trump took credit for what he called an “EPIC” ceasefire agreement, saying it “could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November.” He said his special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and U.S. allies to “make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven.”
The families of seven American hostages in Gaza said they are “deeply grateful” that an agreement for the phased release of hostages has been reached.
“The coming days and weeks will be just as painful for our families as the entirety of our loved ones’ horrific ordeals,” the families said in a statement. “That is why we ask all parties to stay committed to this agreement, every phase until it is fully implemented and everyone has been returned. We feel hopeful that under President Trump’s leadership, every last hostage will come home.”
A new round of ceasefire negotiations began on Jan. 3 in Qatar. Delegations from both Israel and Hamas were dispatched to Doha to resume the negotiations, which were brokered by Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The Biden administration also helped broker the talks.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken had previously told reporters the United States wanted a ceasefire deal in Gaza and all remaining captives released before Trump takes office on Jan. 20.
Blinken on Jan. 6 reported “intensified engagement,” including by Hamas, on reaching a deal, though he added, “We are yet to see agreement on final points.”
“We need Hamas to make the final necessary decisions to complete the agreement and to fundamentally change the circumstance for the hostages, getting them out, for people in Gaza, bringing them relief, and for the region as a whole, creating an opportunity to actually move forward to something better, more secure for everyone involved,” Blinken said at the time.
On Tuesday, Blinken said during an address at the Atlantic Council that Israel and Hamas were “on the brink” of reaching a six-week ceasefire deal that would see some hostages released from Gaza.
The deal comes after a ceasefire deal was reached between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024, weeks after Israel invaded southern Lebanon as part of an escalation of its conflict with Hezbollah.
It also follows the high-profile assassinations last year of Hamas leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar — with Sinwar being one of the key architects of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel — as well as Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Israel has claimed responsibility for their deaths.
