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Russia Attacks Ukraine with Deadly Strikes

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Russia Attacks Ukraine with Deadly Strikes

Russia attacks Kyiv in one of the deadliest recent strikes on Ukraine’s capital, killing at least 20 people, according to Ukrainian officials. The overnight drone and missile barrage injured dozens more and caused damage across the city.

Russia Attacks Kyiv Overnight

Explosions shook Kyiv for hours as Russian missiles and drones targeted the capital overnight into Thursday, July 2. Residents took shelter in metro stations while air defense units responded to waves of incoming weapons.

Kyiv officials said at least 20 people were killed. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said 86 people were injured, including 70 who were hospitalized. Emergency crews continued searching damaged buildings, meaning the toll could rise.

Officials reported destruction in every district of the capital. They said several residential buildings were hit or damaged, including a partially collapsed multi-story building in the Darnytskyi district.

Homes and Civilian Sites Damaged

The attack lasted for hours and caused widespread damage across Kyiv. Ukrainian officials said damage was recorded at roughly 30 sites, mainly residential buildings and civilian infrastructure.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said about 20 residential buildings were damaged. Images from the city showed smoke rising over neighborhoods and apartment blocks scarred by missile and drone impacts.

Klitschko declared Friday, July 3, a day of mourning in Kyiv. The decision followed what he described as the most massive attack on the capital since the full-scale war began.

Moscow Calls Strike Retaliation

Russia’s Defense Ministry said the attack came in response to Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian oil facilities. Moscow said it targeted military industry sites, energy infrastructure and airfields.

Ukraine rejected that explanation. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression. He also urged allies not to delay air defense aid.

Russia launched 74 missiles and 496 drones, according to Ukraine’s air force. The attack included 24 ballistic missiles, which are among the hardest weapons for Ukraine to intercept.

Ukraine Seeks More Air Defense

Ukrainian officials renewed calls for more Patriot missile systems and interceptors. They said stronger air defenses remain essential as Russia increases large-scale attacks on cities.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned before the assault that Moscow appeared to be preparing another major strike. Hours later, Kyiv faced a barrage that left emergency teams searching through rubble at several sites.

European officials also condemned the attack. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Europe should increase pressure on Moscow and expand sanctions on entities tied to Russia’s military industry.

War Pressure Continues

The Kyiv attack came as Ukraine keeps striking Russian oil refineries and military supply lines. Kyiv says those operations aim to weaken Russia’s war machine and force Moscow toward negotiations.

Russia has shown no sign of easing its air campaign. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow would continue increasing pressure on Kyiv to achieve its goals.

The latest attack underscores the war’s continuing civilian toll. It also keeps international attention on humanitarian relief, air defense support and renewed diplomatic efforts.

Houston Companies Named Among Best Places to Work by U.S. News

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Houston Companies Named Among Best Places to Work by U.S. News

Twenty-four local employers have landed on the Houston best places to work list in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 ratings. The recognition places Houston among Texas’ strongest job markets for workers seeking pay, stability, flexibility and career growth.

The annual ratings reviewed 3,900 public and private companies across 14 industries. In Texas, 95 companies were named among the best companies to work for in the South.

Houston Best Places to Work List Grows

Houston’s showing increased sharply from recent years. The area had 16 companies recognized in 2024 and 11 in 2025.

This year, 24 Houston-area companies made the cut. Most are based in Houston proper, while others are located in The Woodlands, Kingwood and Spring.

The list reflects the region’s broad economy. Energy, engineering, technology, homebuilding, real estate, finance and infrastructure companies all appear in the ratings.

Major local names include Chevron, Occidental, Powell Industries and David Weekley Homes. Other recognized employers include PROS, EOG Resources, Targa Resources, TechnipFMC, Cheniere, DXP, Comfort Systems USA, Corebridge, Baker Hughes, KBR, CenterPoint Energy and Phillips 66.

The list also includes S&B, Cornerstone Home Lending, Farouk, Hines, Insperity, HPE and Sterling Infrastructure.

How U.S. News Rated Employers

U.S. News rated companies on six main workplace factors. Those include pay and benefits, work-life balance, job stability, comfort, belonging and career development.

The ratings are designed to help job seekers compare employers beyond salary alone. They also show how companies support workers during changing economic conditions.

For many workers, flexibility and stability remain major concerns. Career development has also become more important as artificial intelligence changes job duties across industries.

The report gives workers a broader view of what an employer may offer. That includes professional growth, workplace culture, benefits and long-term security.

Energy and Industry Lead Houston’s Showing

Energy companies remain central to Houston’s workplace reputation. Chevron, EOG Resources, Targa Resources, Cheniere, Baker Hughes, Phillips 66 and Occidental all reflect the region’s long-standing strength in energy and industrial work.

Engineering and construction also had a strong presence. KBR, S&B, TechnipFMC, Powell Industries and Comfort Systems USA show Houston’s continued role in major infrastructure and technical services.

The list also reaches beyond traditional energy. PROS represents the city’s growing software sector. Hines reflects Houston’s real estate influence. David Weekley Homes and Cornerstone Home Lending point to the area’s housing and finance industries.

What the Recognition Means for Workers

The recognition gives job seekers a useful starting point when comparing employers. It may also help companies recruit talent in a competitive market.

Houston continues to attract workers across many fields. The city offers jobs in energy, health care, technology, construction, logistics and professional services.

For employees, the best workplace depends on personal needs. Some may prioritize pay. Others may value flexibility, stability, advancement or workplace culture.

The U.S. News ratings do not replace individual research. However, they offer a snapshot of companies that scored well across several workplace measures.

Houston’s Job Market Stays Competitive

The growth in recognized companies points to Houston’s strength as a major employment center. It also shows that local companies are competing on more than wages.

As workers weigh career moves, workplace quality remains a major factor. Houston’s latest showing gives local job seekers more options to consider close to home.

Empire State Building Climbers Taken Into Custody After Apparent Proposal

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Empire State Building Climbers Taken Into Custody After Apparent Proposal

Two Empire State Building climbers were taken into custody Wednesday after scaling the landmark’s spire, unfurling a banner and appearing to get engaged high above Manhattan. Police said no injuries were reported after the unauthorized climb on July 1.

The incident drew a large response from the NYPD and briefly disrupted access to the building’s observation deck. The climbers came down from the structure shortly after 12:30 p.m. and were taken into custody after 1 p.m.

Empire State Building Climbers Reach the Spire

The two climbers wore black clothing and masks as they climbed above the public observation areas. Video from local news helicopters showed them near the antenna structure at the top of the building.

The Empire State Building rises 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan, including its antenna. The climb placed the pair far above areas normally open to visitors.

Authorities responded with emergency units as crowds watched from the street. The observation deck was cleared while police handled the situation.

The building later said the incident was resolved with help from the NYPD. Management also said there was no danger to tenants, visitors or observation deck guests.

Banner and Apparent Engagement Draw Attention

During the climb, the pair unfurled a banner with a message about love and peace. Video also showed the two embracing and taking photos near the top of the tower.

As they climbed down, one person appeared to get down on one knee. The other appeared to look at a ring-like object before the pair hugged and kissed.

Authorities had not immediately confirmed whether a proposal occurred. Still, the apparent engagement quickly became a central part of the viral moment.

Local outlets identified the pair as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, who are known for high-altitude climbing stunts. The couple was taken into custody after descending from the spire.

No Injuries Reported After Unauthorized Climb

Police reported no injuries during the incident. The climbers were taken into custody after returning from the structure.

Officials did not immediately release a full list of possible charges. The climb was described as unauthorized by the Empire State Building.

It was not immediately clear how the pair accessed the restricted area. The incident also raised questions about security at one of New York City’s most recognizable landmarks.

The Empire State Building is a major tourist destination and office building with strict access controls. Unauthorized climbs can place climbers, guests and emergency responders at risk.

Landmark Stunt Ends With Police Custody

The Empire State Building has seen public stunts before, though most are planned with official approval. Unauthorized climbs remain dangerous and can trigger large emergency responses.

Wednesday’s incident combined a protest-style banner, an apparent proposal and a highly visible police response. It also unfolded in front of visitors and viewers watching live news coverage.

For the public, the takeaway is clear: the building offers official ways to visit and even propose, but restricted areas remain off limits. The Empire State Building climbers are now facing police custody after turning a private moment into a public safety incident.

Anthropic AI Models Get Global Release After U.S. Restrictions Lifted

Que Onda Editorial
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Anthropic AI Models Get Global Release After U.S. Restrictions Lifted

Anthropic AI models are once again available to users around the world after the U.S. government lifted export controls on Claude Fable 5 and Claude Mythos 5. Anthropic announced that it restored Fable 5 globally on July 1 through Claude Platform, Claude.ai, Claude Code, and Claude Cowork.

Previously, the company paused access for nearly three weeks because of national security concerns. Now, users in many regions can once again access the advanced AI model. The Associated Press also reported that federal officials lifted the restrictions after Anthropic strengthened its cybersecurity safeguards.

Anthropic AI Models Return to Users Worldwide

Anthropic confirmed that the U.S. government imposed export controls on Claude Fable 5 and Claude Mythos 5 on June 12. As a result, the company had to restrict access for foreign nationals.

However, Anthropic explained that it could not reliably verify every user’s nationality in real time. Therefore, it temporarily suspended access to both models for all users instead of limiting access only to certain regions.

After officials lifted the restrictions on June 30, Anthropic immediately began restoring service. In addition, the company said it will continue expanding availability through Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Foundry as quickly as possible.

For Pro, Max, Team, and select Enterprise subscribers, Fable 5 will count toward only 50% of weekly usage limits through July 7. Afterward, normal usage policies will resume, and some users may need additional usage credits.

Why the Restrictions Were Introduced

Federal officials introduced the restrictions after cybersecurity researchers raised concerns about how the models could be misused. According to Anthropic, Amazon researchers discovered a technique that bypassed some of Fable 5’s safety protections.

Using that method, the model identified software vulnerabilities and generated code that demonstrated how attackers could exploit them.

Even so, Anthropic emphasized that researchers did not uncover unique cybersecurity capabilities exclusive to Mythos 5. Instead, the company quickly addressed the issue by developing a stronger safety classifier.

Today, that updated safeguard blocks the reported technique in more than 99% of tested cases, according to Anthropic.

What Fable 5 and Mythos 5 Offer

Anthropic introduced Fable 5 and Mythos 5 on June 9 as advanced Claude AI models built for complex reasoning, software engineering, and long-running workflows.

Fable 5 includes additional safety protections for general users. Meanwhile, Anthropic designed Mythos 5 for trusted organizations performing defensive cybersecurity research and testing.

The company has already restored Mythos 5 access for selected U.S. organizations. Furthermore, Anthropic said it continues working with government agencies to expand access for additional domestic and international partners participating in its Glasswing program.

Anthropic Plans Stronger AI Safety Standards

Anthropic also announced plans to work with Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and other technology companies on a shared framework for evaluating AI jailbreaks. A jailbreak attempts to bypass an AI model’s built-in safety protections.

The proposed framework will evaluate several factors, including the amount of capability unlocked, the scope of access, the ease of weaponization, and how easily someone can discover the exploit.

Additionally, Anthropic believes the AI industry needs a consistent way to measure and communicate the severity of jailbreak techniques. As a result, the company plans to strengthen collaboration with U.S. government agencies on pre-release testing and responsible information sharing.

What the Global Release Means

The return of Anthropic AI models highlights how quickly government policy can affect AI development, businesses, and everyday users. At the same time, it demonstrates the growing importance of balancing innovation with cybersecurity.

For developers, students, researchers, and businesses that rely on Claude, the restored availability of Fable 5 means they can once again access the company’s newest AI capabilities. Looking ahead, Anthropic’s latest announcement suggests that advanced AI systems will continue expanding globally while stronger safety standards become an increasingly important part of future releases.

PlayStation Physical Discs Will End for New Games in 2028

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PlayStation Physical Discs Will End for New Games in 2028

Sony Interactive Entertainment says PlayStation physical discs will no longer be produced for new games released on PlayStation consoles starting in January 2028. The company announced the change July 1 in a PlayStation Blog update.

PlayStation Physical Discs Shift to Digital

The change means new PlayStation games released after January 2028 will be available in digital formats only. Players will still be able to buy games through the PlayStation Store.

Sony also said digital versions will remain available through retailers. That could include download codes or other digital purchase options sold outside the console store.

The company said the move reflects a larger shift in consumer habits. According to Sony, more players now prefer digital media over physical discs.

Existing Disc Games Will Not Be Affected

The announcement does not affect games already released on disc. It also does not affect games scheduled to launch on disc before January 2028.

Players who own physical PS4 or PS5 games can continue using those copies, as long as their console supports discs. The change applies only to new releases after the cutoff date.

For collectors, the decision marks a major change in how PlayStation games will be sold. Physical editions have long been part of gaming culture, especially for fans who trade, lend or display their games.

What This Means for Players

The move could make digital libraries more important for PlayStation users. It may also place more focus on account access, storage space and online storefront availability.

Digital games offer convenience. Players can buy, download and switch between titles without handling discs.

However, physical games still matter to many families and longtime players. Discs can be shared, resold or purchased secondhand. They can also help players find deals at local stores.

Sony said it will continue to offer choices on where players buy new games. Still, the format itself will move toward digital for future releases.

Other PlayStation News This Week

The disc announcement came the same day Sony revealed July’s PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup. The July games include Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, For the King II and CrossCode.

Those titles will be available to PlayStation Plus members from July 7 through Aug. 3, according to PlayStation Blog.

Sony also recently highlighted major upcoming PS5 titles during its June State of Play presentation. The showcase included updates on Marvel’s Wolverine, God of War Laufey and other upcoming games.

A Major Change for Gaming Habits

The end of new PlayStation physical discs signals a clear change for the console market. Digital access is becoming the standard for future PlayStation releases.

For gamers, the shift makes it more important to understand digital purchases, account security, and storage needs. Players who prefer discs still have time to buy physical releases before the January 2028 change.

Kevin Warsh Says AI Could Create Jobs as Inflation Risks Ease

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Kevin Warsh Says AI Could Create Jobs as Inflation Risks Ease

Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh said Wednesday that inflation risks appear to be declining, while artificial intelligence could strengthen the U.S. economy over time. His Kevin Warsh AI jobs remarks came during a central banking forum in Sintra, Portugal, where he also stressed the Fed’s independence.

Warsh said inflation expectations have moved lower in recent weeks, according to the Associated Press. Still, he made clear that the Fed does not plan to accept inflation above its 2% goal.

Kevin Warsh AI Jobs Outlook

Warsh said the United States could benefit from artificial intelligence as the technology spreads through the economy. He said AI may increase productivity, expand supply and support job growth over the long term.

The Fed chair also acknowledged that the timing remains uncertain. Many businesses are still testing AI tools, and economists continue to debate how quickly the technology will reshape hiring.

According to Anadolu Agency, Warsh described the AI shift as being in an early stage. He said employment and prosperity could improve as the transformation continues.

However, the short-term picture remains mixed. AI infrastructure spending can raise costs for chips, computing equipment and electricity. Those costs may add pressure to inflation before productivity gains appear.

Inflation Pressures Show Signs of Easing

Warsh said inflation risks have moderated since his first weeks as Fed chair. He pointed to surveys and bond market measures that show lower inflation expectations.

At the same time, inflation remains above the Fed’s target. AP reported that inflation rose to 4.2% in May, partly because the Iran war pushed gas prices higher. Gas prices have since declined after a peace agreement.

That shift could give the Fed more time before making another interest rate move. Lower energy prices often help reduce headline inflation, though core costs can remain sticky.

Warsh said businesses and households should not expect the central bank to tolerate inflation above 2%. He said the Fed remains focused on price stability.

Fed Avoids Interest Rate Signals

Warsh declined to say whether the Fed could raise interest rates at its July 28-29 meeting. He repeated his opposition to forward guidance, which is when central bank leaders signal future policy moves.

The Fed held rates steady at its June 16-17 meeting. Its current target range stands at 3.5% to 3.75%, according to recent Fed materials listed on the Federal Reserve website.

Nearly half of Fed policymakers signaled support for higher rates this year. Others preferred no change, while one projected a cut.

Warsh said policymakers would review the data before deciding. A strong jobs report could reduce pressure to lower rates, while persistent inflation could keep rate hikes on the table.

What It Means for Workers and Families

The Fed’s next steps matter for households, small businesses and workers across the country. Higher interest rates can make credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and business borrowing more expensive.

Warsh’s comments also show that AI has become a central economic issue. The technology may create new types of work, but it may also change existing jobs.

For Latino families and business owners, the key takeaway is practical. Inflation, interest rates and AI-driven job changes will continue to shape household budgets, hiring and long-term career planning.

Trump Made Millions From Hollywood-Linked Deals Last Year, Filings Show

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Trump Made Millions From Hollywood-Linked Deals Last Year, Filings Show

Trump Hollywood income came from several entertainment and media-related sources in 2025, according to newly released federal financial disclosures. The filings show President Donald Trump reported money tied to media settlements, performer pensions and residual payments from past television and movie appearances.

The largest Hollywood-linked amounts did not come from acting work. Instead, they came from settlements involving major media companies, including Disney-owned ABC and Paramount-owned CBS.

Trump Hollywood Income Included Media Settlements

Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure, released by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, listed more than $86 million in legal settlements involving media and technology companies, according to reports from the Associated Press and other outlets.

Those settlements included payments connected to lawsuits involving ABC, CBS, Meta, YouTube and X. Some of the money was directed toward Trump’s future presidential library or related purposes, based on previously announced settlement terms.

ABC News agreed in 2024 to pay $15 million toward Trump’s future presidential library to settle a defamation lawsuit. The case involved comments made by anchor George Stephanopoulos about the civil case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll.

Paramount, the parent company of CBS, agreed in 2025 to pay $16 million to settle Trump’s lawsuit over a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris. Paramount said the money would go to Trump’s future presidential library and not directly to Trump.

Small Residuals From TV and Film Work

The financial disclosure also showed smaller payments from Trump’s past entertainment work. The filing listed a Screen Actors Guild pension of $84,292 and an American Federation of Television and Radio Artists pension of $7,997.

Trump also reported residuals from earlier movie and television appearances. The filing listed $333.31 from WB Studio Enterprises for projects including “Two Weeks Notice,” “Suddenly Susan” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”

Paramount Picture Corporation also appeared in the disclosure. The filing listed $371.82 in residuals tied to New York, while another Paramount entry from Hollywood, California, showed no income or less than $201.

Entertainment Partners was also listed for residual income tied to “Zoolander,” “The Nanny” and “Sex and the City.” Those individual programs generated less than $200, according to the filing.

Disclosure Shows Broader Business Income

The entertainment-related income was only one part of Trump’s broader financial picture. The Associated Press reported that Trump took in nearly $1.2 billion from crypto businesses last year.

The disclosure also listed income from real estate, licensing, merchandise and investments. Federal disclosure forms often use broad ranges, so they do not always show exact values for every asset.

Trump has said he does not manage his finances directly. The White House has rejected claims that his business activity creates conflicts of interest.

Still, the filings drew attention because they showed how Trump’s business interests continue to overlap with media, entertainment and technology companies while he serves as president.

Why The Filing Matters

The latest filing offers a rare public look at Trump’s income sources during his return to office. It also shows that his Hollywood ties now extend beyond older television appearances and performer pensions.

Most of the Trump Hollywood income came from disputes with major media companies, not from traditional entertainment work. However, the disclosure also shows that past appearances on television and in film still generate small payments.

For readers, the filing highlights how celebrity, politics and business remain closely connected in Trump’s financial life.

Disney Apps Add Spanish Translations for Walt Disney World and Disneyland Guests

Michael Esparza
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Disney Apps Add Spanish Translations for Walt Disney World and Disneyland Guests

Disney apps Spanish translations are now available for select Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort planning tools. The update helps Spanish-speaking guests plan trips, manage details, and navigate vacation options with more ease.

Starting July 1, the My Disney Experience app for Walt Disney World and the Disneyland app for Disneyland Resort now include select content translated into Spanish. The update is part of Disney’s effort to simplify vacation planning, improve booking tools, and give guests more confidence before and during their visits.

Disney Apps Spanish Translations Expand Guest Access

Guests who have Spanish set as the default language on their phones will automatically see available translated sections in Spanish. The change applies to the My Disney Experience app and the Disneyland app.

Disney said the update responds to visitor feedback. The company has continued adding digital tools designed to make trip planning easier and more convenient.

For many families, mobile apps play a major role in planning a Disney vacation. Guests use them to check plans, manage reservations, review park information, and access key trip details.

The Spanish-language update aims to help guests who prefer browsing in Spanish move through those steps with more ease.

Some App Features Remain in English

Not every feature is available in Spanish yet. Disney said Mobile Order menus and Mobile Merchandise Checkout menus are not currently translated.

That means guests using those tools may still see English-language content during parts of the ordering or checkout process. Disney has not announced a timeline for when those features may receive Spanish translations.

Visitors who want to view the app in Spanish should check their phone settings. The app language depends on the device’s default language setting.

If a phone is set to English, the app will continue to appear in English. Users must set their device language to Spanish to see the translated app content where available.

Recent Disney App Improvements

The Disney apps Spanish translations rollout follows other recent updates to Disney’s planning apps. Earlier this year, Disney redesigned both the Disneyland app and My Disney Experience app.

The redesign introduced more intuitive navigation and a more consistent guest experience. It also allows guests to see travel plans in one place, instead of checking only a daily view.

In recent months, Disney has also added updates for restaurant reservations, online check-in, and theme park reservations. Guests can now complete more planning steps directly through the apps.

These updates reflect a broader push to reduce friction during vacation planning. They also help guests access important trip tools before arriving at the parks.

More Flexibility for Disneyland Guests

Disney has also made changes beyond its digital platforms. Earlier this month, Disneyland Resort guests with Park Hopper tickets and Magic Key passes gained more flexibility.

Those guests no longer need to wait until 11 a.m. Pacific Time to switch parks. Park hopping remains subject to availability.

The change gives eligible guests more freedom when planning their day between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

Together, these updates show Disney’s continued focus on convenience, flexibility, and guest access. For Spanish-speaking families, the new app translations offer another tool to plan with more confidence.

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup Win Sends El Tri Into Round of 16

Michael Esparza
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Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup Win Sends El Tri Into Round of 16

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup action delivered a major moment for El Tri on Tuesday night. Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, moving into the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The win kept Mexico perfect in the tournament. It also gave the co-hosts another clean sheet in front of a loud home crowd.

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup Match Turns Early

Mexico took control in the first half with two goals. Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute after a quick attacking move.

Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead in the 31st minute. The veteran forward finished after Ecuador failed to clear the ball near the penalty area.

Those two moments shaped the match. Ecuador pushed for a response, but Mexico stayed organized and protected the lead.

El Tri Defense Stays Strong

Mexico’s defense again played a central role. Ecuador created pressure at times, including set pieces and chances from distance.

Still, Mexico handled the danger with discipline. The back line limited Ecuador’s best looks and kept the match under control late.

The result continued Mexico’s strong start to the tournament. El Tri has now opened the World Cup with four straight wins and four clean sheets.

Ecuador Falls Short In Knockout Test

Ecuador entered the match with confidence after advancing from a difficult group. The team had already shown it could compete with top opponents.

However, Mexico’s early goals changed the rhythm. Ecuador had to chase the match for more than an hour.

The night grew harder for Ecuador after Piero Hincapié received a late red card. That left Ecuador with 10 players and little time to recover.

What Comes Next For Mexico

Mexico will now wait for its Round of 16 opponent. The winner of England vs. DR Congo will face El Tri next.

That match is expected to bring even more pressure. Mexico has not reached the World Cup quarterfinals since 1986, the last time the country hosted the tournament.

This team now has a chance to change that story. With goals from Quiñones and Jiménez, plus another shutout, Mexico gave its fans a reason to believe.

For supporters following El Tri, the takeaway is clear. Mexico is still alive, still unbeaten, and now one win away from a historic breakthrough.

Houston Restaurant Closures Hit Local Favorites

Michael Esparza
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Houston Restaurant Closures Hit Local Favorites

Houston restaurant closures continued in June as several local favorites announced permanent or temporary shutdowns. The latest round affected bars, breweries and restaurants across Montrose, Memorial City, Cypress, Garden Oaks, Washington Avenue and Rice Village.

Houston Restaurant Closures Reflect Industry Pressure

The June closures show how rising food costs, labor challenges and lease issues continue to affect Houston’s dining scene. The impact is not limited to small independent spots.

Several closures involved local restaurant groups or operators with multiple concepts. That includes brands that had expanded across the area in recent years.

For diners, the changes mean saying goodbye to neighborhood staples and adjusting plans for familiar brunch, bar and dinner destinations. For owners, the decisions often reflect a mix of business costs, lease terms and shifting priorities.

Roswell’s Saloon and State Fare Close Locations

Roswell’s Saloon closed in Montrose on June 28 after nearly three years in business. The Westheimer Road bar was known for its space-themed design, neon atmosphere and playful cocktails.

The owner is expected to focus on other restaurant businesses rather than renew the lease. Roswell’s had built a following as a neighborhood bar with a distinctive look and late-night energy.

State Fare Kitchen & Bar also closed its Memorial City flagship after 10 years. The restaurant was known for brunch, comfort food and cocktails.

The closure leaves State Fare with one remaining location in The Woodlands. Ownership has also teased a reworked version of the concept, including a larger footprint, new menu and more social dining features.

Duck N Bao, Pho Fix and Platypus Brewing Also Close

Duck N Bao closed its Cypress location with little notice. The Beijing duck and dumpling restaurant had grown from Cypress into other parts of the Houston area.

Its Memorial and Rice Village locations remain open. The owners also operate other Asian dining concepts in the region.

Pho Fix closed its Garden Oaks restaurant on June 8 after about three years. The restaurant had served pho, banh mi and other Vietnamese dishes.

Its closing announcement thanked customers and described the restaurant as a place where families, friends and neighbors gathered. Pho Fix first opened downtown before adding the Garden Oaks location in 2023.

Platypus Brewing also poured its final beers on Washington Avenue on May 31. The Australian-inspired brewery, bar and restaurant operated for nearly a decade.

Owners said the lease was ending and suggested another project may be ahead.

More Closures Are Coming in July

Two more notable restaurants are expected to close in July. Istanbul Grill in Rice Village will close July 19 after nearly 30 years in business.

The Turkish restaurant has long served diners in one of Houston’s busiest restaurant districts. Its owners cited lease circumstances as the reason for the closure.

Killen’s in the Heights will also serve its final meal on July 19. The Southern comfort food restaurant opened in 2020 and later earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition.

The farewell menu is expected to include customer favorites such as chicken-fried steak, oxtails, chicken pot pie, barbecue and German chocolate cake.

Hidden Omakase Temporarily Relocates

Not every closure is permanent. Hidden Omakase has temporarily closed after a car crashed into its dining room.

The Michelin-recommended restaurant is continuing service through a summer residency at Bar Moon in Uptown. The team is offering limited seatings Tuesday through Saturday.

The June changes show how quickly Houston’s food scene can shift. Diners still have time to visit some closing restaurants before their final service, while others have already served their last meal.

For Houston food lovers, the month is a reminder to support neighborhood restaurants, bars and breweries while they are still open.

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