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Trump Criticizes Gavin Newsom Over UK Clean Energy Agreement

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Criticizes Gavin Newsom Over UK Clean Energy Agreement

President Donald Trump reignited his feud with California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday, attacking the Democrat after he signed a clean energy cooperation deal with the United Kingdom.

Trump called Newsom a “loser” and said it was inappropriate for British officials to partner with him, warning the agreement would not succeed.

Details of the Energy Partnership

Newsom signed a memorandum of understanding in London with UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband aimed at expanding clean energy investment, scaling technology deployment, and increasing export opportunities for British companies in California.

The governor’s trip is part of a broader European tour focused on climate policy and economic cooperation, fueling speculation about a possible 2028 presidential run.

Political Back-and-Forth Escalates

Newsom’s office pushed back, accusing Trump of favoring fossil fuels and arguing that international leaders are aligning with California’s climate agenda. The clash reflects ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and California over environmental policy, infrastructure, and migration trends, with both leaders frequently trading public criticism.

For more on clean energy efforts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Tom Pritzker to Retire as Hyatt Executive Chairman After Epstein Links Revealed

Edward Saenz
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Tom Pritzker to Retire as Hyatt Executive Chairman After Epstein Links Revealed

Billionaire hotel heir Tom Pritzker announced Monday he will retire as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and will not seek reelection to the board following newly released Justice Department files detailing his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Pritzker, who has held the role since 2004, acknowledged maintaining contact with Epstein and associate Ghislaine Maxwell after Epstein’s 2008 plea deal, calling it “terrible judgment” and expressing regret for not distancing himself sooner.

Leadership Transition at Hyatt

Hyatt’s board named current president and CEO Mark Hoplamazian to immediately assume the role of chairman.

Broader Fallout From Epstein Files

Pritzker is among several prominent figures facing consequences after the latest disclosures about Epstein’s network. Economist Larry Summers was previously banned from the American Economic Association, and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem was replaced as head of DP World amid scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein.

The Pritzker Organization has not issued additional comment.

For more on the Epstein files, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Rhode Island youth hockey shooting reverberates in Texas as safety debates resurface

Edward Saenz
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Rhode Island youth hockey shooting reverberates in Texas as safety debates resurface

A shooting at a youth hockey game in Rhode Island that left three people dead and several others injured is renewing national debate over gun violence and prompting reflection among officials and families in Texas.

Authorities said gunfire erupted Sunday at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket during a youth hockey event. Police said the suspected gunman died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Several victims were transported to area hospitals, some in critical condition.

Investigators have indicated the shooting may have stemmed from a targeted dispute rather than a random act of violence. Federal authorities, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, assisted local law enforcement at the scene.

The tragedy quickly drew reactions from elected officials across the country, with many expressing condolences and emphasizing that youth sporting events should be safe spaces for families.

Ripple effects in Texas

Though the shooting occurred more than 1,800 miles away, its impact was felt in Texas, where past mass shootings have left deep scars and shaped ongoing policy debates.

Incidents like the one in Rhode Island often resurface discussions in the Texas Legislature over firearm regulations, school security funding and mental health resources. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have historically pointed to national tragedies when arguing for or against changes to state gun laws.

Gov. Greg Abbott has previously emphasized strengthening school safety measures and increasing law enforcement presence on campuses following high-profile shootings nationwide. Advocacy groups that support tighter gun restrictions, as well as those that defend gun rights, are also expected to reference the Rhode Island case as part of broader arguments over public safety policy.

School and youth event security

School districts and youth sports organizations in Texas routinely review emergency preparedness plans after major incidents elsewhere in the country. Large districts such as Houston Independent School District and others across the state have expanded active shooter drills, upgraded surveillance systems and increased coordination with local law enforcement in recent years.

Youth sports leagues, including hockey programs in North Texas and the Houston area, often reassess security procedures following national tragedies, focusing on entry controls, volunteer training and communication protocols for parents.

Continuing national debate

The Rhode Island shooting adds to a long list of gun violence incidents that have fueled a persistent national conversation about firearm access, domestic disputes and community safety. In Texas, where gun ownership is common and political views on regulation vary widely, each new tragedy elsewhere in the country tends to renew a familiar debate over how best to prevent future violence.

As investigators in Rhode Island continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, communities in Texas and beyond are once again confronting questions about how to ensure safety at schools, sporting events and other public gatherings.

Elana Meyers Taylor Wins First Olympic Gold at Age 41

Indira Zaldivar
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Elana Meyers Taylor Wins First Olympic Gold at Age 41

American bobsled star Elana Meyers Taylor captured her long-awaited first Olympic gold medal Monday, winning the women’s monobob event at the Milan Cortina Winter Games and becoming the oldest American woman to win gold at a Winter Olympics.

The 41-year-old rallied in the fourth and final heat to finish with a combined time of 3:57.93, dropping to her knees in tears when the result became official.

Historic Podium Finish

Germany’s Laura Nolte took silver, while American teammate Kaillie Humphries earned bronze with a time of 3:58.05 to secure her fifth Olympic medal.

Meyers Taylor had previously won five Olympic medals — three silver and two bronze — and was already the most decorated Black athlete in Winter Olympics history. Her sixth medal ties U.S. speedskating legend Bonnie Blair for the most Winter Olympic medals by an American woman.

A Career-Defining Comeback

Entering the final run, Nolte held a narrow lead, but Meyers Taylor delivered the fastest closing performance to secure gold. The victory adds to a career that includes world titles, multiple Olympic podiums, and two comebacks after becoming a mother.

For Meyers Taylor, the achievement marked the final milestone in an already historic career — and her first time hearing the U.S. national anthem played in her honor at the Winter Games.

For more on the Winter Olympics, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Pipeline expansion accelerates in Montgomery County as energy companies build major natural gas corridors

Que Onda Editorial
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Pipeline expansion accelerates in Montgomery County as energy companies build major natural gas corridors

A surge of new oil and gas pipeline construction is reshaping parts of Montgomery County as energy companies expand infrastructure to meet growing demand along the Gulf Coast.

Multiple large-scale natural gas and natural gas liquids projects are underway or in advanced planning stages, drawing attention from local officials and residents concerned about safety, environmental impacts and proximity to neighborhoods.

Texas has roughly 483,000 miles of pipelines crisscrossing the state, according to industry data, and Montgomery County sits along key corridors linking the Permian Basin and other production regions to refineries and export terminals on the coast.

Major projects underway

Among the most prominent developments is the Blackfin pipeline, led by WhiteWater Midstream. The 193-mile natural gas pipeline is designed to transport up to 3.5 billion cubic feet of gas per day. Construction began in late 2024, with the line running through several Southeast Texas counties, including Montgomery.

The project drew scrutiny after plans for a compressor station near Conroe prompted community opposition. Residents raised concerns about noise levels, emissions and the facility’s distance from homes and businesses. Legal challenges temporarily halted work at the proposed site before relocation plans were pursued.

Another large proposal, the Mustang Express pipeline, is being developed by ARM Energy Holdings LLC. The 240-mile intrastate line would move up to 2.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day from Colorado and Waller counties toward liquefied natural gas facilities in Port Arthur. Construction is expected to begin later this decade, pending permitting and surveys.

The Bahia NGL pipeline, operated by Enterprise Products Partners with a stake held by ExxonMobil, became operational in December 2025. The 550-mile system transports natural gas liquids such as ethane and propane from West Texas to Gulf Coast processing hubs. Additional capacity expansions are planned through 2027.

Meanwhile, Kinder Morgan is constructing the Trident intrastate pipeline, a 216-mile natural gas line expected to carry about 2 billion cubic feet per day when completed. The project is slated to enter service in 2027.

Oversight and local response

Oil and gas pipelines in Texas are regulated by the Texas Railroad Commission, which oversees permitting and safety standards. Counties do not have direct authority over routing decisions, though local officials say they monitor projects closely.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough has said the county supports responsible energy development but remains cautious about facilities near densely populated areas. He has voiced opposition to placing compressor stations close to residential neighborhoods, citing safety and quality-of-life concerns.

Industry representatives maintain that pipelines are one of the safest and most efficient methods of transporting energy products, reducing the need for tanker trucks on highways and lowering traffic risks.

As Montgomery County continues to grow rapidly, the intersection of residential development and energy infrastructure is likely to remain a focal point of debate. For now, construction crews continue laying pipe beneath fields and roadways, expanding the underground network that fuels much of the state’s economy.

Lionel Messi Effect Fuels Inter Miami Revenue Surge Nearly 300% Since MLS Arrival

Indira Zaldivar
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Lionel Messi Effect Fuels Inter Miami Revenue Surge Nearly 300% Since MLS Arrival

The arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi has dramatically transformed the financial and competitive landscape of Inter Miami CF, with club revenue rising nearly 300% since he joined Major League Soccer in 2023.

Beyond his on-field success, Messi’s presence elevated Inter Miami into one of the league’s most valuable and recognizable franchises in just a few seasons, bringing unprecedented global attention to North American soccer.

Record Valuation and Explosive Revenue Growth

Following the club’s 2025 MLS Cup championship, Inter Miami reached a reported valuation of $1.45 billion — the highest ever for an MLS franchise. Financial performance has surged alongside that milestone. The club generated approximately $200 million in revenue during the 2025 season, compared with $56 million in 2022, the last full year before Messi’s arrival.

The dramatic increase reflects booming ticket sales, sponsorship deals, merchandise demand, and international visibility tied to the Argentine icon’s global brand.

New Stadium and Contract Extension Signal Long-Term Growth

Inter Miami’s financial momentum is expected to continue, driven by two major developments: the planned opening of Miami Freedom Park in April and Messi’s contract extension through December 2028. Both moves provide stability and long-term commercial opportunities for the franchise.

Club leadership — led by co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas — has capitalized on the momentum with aggressive investments to strengthen the roster and maintain competitive success.

Heavy Spending to Build a Championship-Caliber Squad

The club spent nearly $38 million in transfer fees during 2026, one of the largest single-season investments in MLS history. Key moves included triggering a $15 million purchase clause for Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, making him among the most expensive signings in league history.

Additional acquisitions included Tadeo Allende, Rocco Ríos Novo, David Ayala, and Mexican international Germán Berterame, whose $15 million transfer matched De Paul among the club’s biggest purchases.

Inter Miami also strengthened depth through free transfers, including goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair and defender Facundo Mura.

Ambitions Expand Beyond MLS

With rising revenues and an upgraded roster, Inter Miami is targeting success not only domestically but also in international competitions such as the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Ownership believes continued investment will translate into trophies while reinforcing the club’s growing global brand.

The “Messi effect” has already reshaped the franchise financially and competitively — and the club’s rapid ascent shows little sign of slowing.

For more sports news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

US Oil Companies Expected to Expand Operations in Venezuela, Energy Secretary Says

Edward Saenz
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US Oil Companies Expected to Expand Operations in Venezuela, Energy Secretary Says

Additional American energy firms could begin operating in Venezuela within the next few months, according to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, signaling a major shift in economic ties following recent political changes in the South American nation.

Currently, Chevron remains the only U.S. oil company with active operations in Venezuela, but that could soon change after new federal authorizations cleared the way for more companies to enter the market.

New Licenses Open the Door for Major Energy Firms

The U.S. Treasury Department recently issued licenses allowing several multinational companies — including BP, Shell, Eni, and Repsol — to negotiate and operate with Venezuela’s state oil company, PDVSA.

Wright said increased production is already underway, with Chevron expanding output this month and next. He projected a “meaningful rise” in Venezuelan oil production over the next year, with much of the supply expected to flow to U.S. refineries, particularly in Florida.

Political Transition Driving Economic Cooperation

The developments follow the removal of longtime Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro earlier this year during a U.S.-backed operation. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has since taken office and met with Wright in Caracas to discuss energy cooperation and economic recovery.

According to Wright, U.S. oversight of oil revenue distribution gives Venezuelan leadership strong incentives to collaborate.

President Donald Trump has stated his administration intends to partner with private companies and Venezuelan authorities to expand oil exports while maintaining U.S. control over revenue flows.

Possible Elections by 2027

While some observers speculated elections could occur sooner, Wright said organizing credible voter rolls and election systems will take time. However, he indicated that a national election before the end of 2027 is “a real possibility.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also defended U.S. involvement in Venezuela during recent congressional testimony, emphasizing plans to restore democratic governance.

Potential Impact on U.S. Gas Prices

Wright argued that increased Venezuelan oil production could benefit American consumers by lowering energy costs across multiple sectors, including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt.

“Americans are going to be winners out of this, as well as the Venezuelans,” he said.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Robert Duvall, Oscar-Winning Star of The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, Dies at 95

Indira Zaldivar
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Robert Duvall, Oscar-Winning Star of The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, Dies at 95

Legendary actor Robert Duvall, known for iconic roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, has died at age 95. He passed away peacefully at his home in Virginia on Feb. 15, 2026, according to his family and representatives.

Duvall won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies and earned seven Oscar nominations over a career spanning more than seven decades and over 90 films.

He first gained attention playing Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird and became widely recognized as Tom Hagen in The Godfather films alongside Marlon Brando. His portrayal of Lt. Col. Kilgore in Apocalypse Now delivered one of cinema’s most famous lines: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.”

Duvall also earned acclaim for television roles, including the Western miniseries Lonesome Dove, which he often called his favorite project.

He is survived by his wife, Luciana Pedraza. In keeping with his wishes, no formal service will be held, with the family encouraging fans to honor his memory by watching a great film or spending time with loved ones.

For more on Duvall’s farewell, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

7 teenage victims in different shootings across the city of Houston in the last week

ABC13 Houston
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7 teenage victims in different shootings across the city of Houston in the last week

By Sarah Al-Shaikh, ABC13 Houston.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Seven teenagers were all victims in different shootings across the city of Houston in the last week, according to reports.

The most recent shooting happened over the weekend, according to police. They said a 16-year-old girl was pronounced dead after getting caught in gunfire at a house party in Houston’s southside.

The Houston Police Department said it happened at a house on Dagg Road on Saturday. Officials said a party of about 300 people ended with the young girl being struck by gunfire and ultimately dying from her injuries.

In the last week, ABC13 reported on seven shootings, with some of them ending fatally.

The victims’ ages ranged from 19 to 15 years old, according to reports.

One teenager was shot and killed at a car meet-up with a friend, according to police.

“One individual in his late teens was struck and pronounced deceased here on the scene,” HPD Lt. JP Horelica said.

A 16-year-old teenager was also shot last week while selling vape pens at the apartment complex where he lives after arranging an online transaction on social media, according to authorities.

“It was definitely very traumatic,” neighbor Isis Nery said.

Nery said she heard the shots ringing out.

“Bullets, like you said, they don’t have any name. They can go through walls. They can go through windows,” Nery said.

Amongst young people, firearm offenses increased by 45% from 2020 to 2025, according to data from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

The department said it also saw more higher-risk youth with increasing treatment needs. It specifically cited aggression and mental health treatment at all-time agency highs.

“I have a 16-year-old brother as well,” Nery said. “It’s just the fact of just communicating with them and showing them what consequences can you know, what your actions and the consequences are, you know?”

For more news updates, follow Sarah Al-Shaikh on Facebook and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston. For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.

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