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Jim Lovell, Apollo 13 Commander, Dies at 97

Edward Saenz
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Jim Lovell, Apollo 13 Commander, Dies at 97

Legendary Astronaut Remembered

Jim Lovell, the famed Apollo 13 commander and four-time spaceflight veteran, has died at age 97, NASA announced Friday. Lovell passed away Thursday in Lake Forest, Illinois. Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy praised Lovell’s “courage under pressure” and lifelong inspiration to millions.

His family remembered him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. “He was our hero,” they said in a statement. “We will miss his unshakeable optimism, his sense of humor, and the way he made each of us feel we could do the impossible.”

Historic Space Career

Born March 25, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, Lovell attended the University of Wisconsin and the U.S. Naval Academy before serving as a naval aviator. Selected as an astronaut in 1962, he became a key figure in NASA’s Gemini and Apollo programs.

Lovell flew on Gemini 7, Gemini 12, Apollo 8, and Apollo 13. In 1968, as Apollo 8’s command module pilot, he joined Frank Borman and William Anders as the first humans to orbit the moon.

Apollo 13 Mission and Near Disaster

Lovell’s most famous mission began April 11, 1970, when Apollo 13 launched toward the moon. Two days in, an oxygen tank exploded, forcing the mission to be aborted. Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise worked with Houston ground control to turn their lunar module into a “lifeboat,” conserving power and water for a safe return to Earth on April 17.

The mission’s dramatic events were later portrayed in the 1995 film Apollo 13, with Tom Hanks playing Lovell.

Life After Spaceflight

Lovell retired from NASA and the Navy in 1973, holding the world record for most time in space at the time. He went on to a successful career in the telecommunications industry, retiring in 1991 as executive vice president of Centel Corporation.

Honored with the Congressional Medal of Honor and Presidential Medal of Freedom, Lovell was married to his wife Marilyn for over 60 years until her death in 2023. He is survived by four children.

For more on NASA and legendary astronauts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Montana Bar Shooting Suspect Captured After Weeklong Manhunt

Indira Zaldivar
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Montana Bar Shooting Suspect Captured After Weeklong Manhunt

Suspect Arrested in Anaconda

Authorities have captured 45-year-old Michael Paul Brown, an Army veteran accused of killing four people at The Owl Bar in Anaconda, Montana, on Aug. 1. The Granite County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Brown’s arrest Friday afternoon near the search area after a weeklong manhunt that involved more than 250 officers from 39 local, state, and federal agencies.

Details of the Shooting

Brown allegedly opened fire inside the small-town bar, killing bartender Nancy Loretta Kelly, 64, and patrons Daniel Edwin Bailey, 59; David Allen Leach, 70; and Tony Wayne Palm, 74. Authorities say Brown lived next door to the bar and likely knew most of the victims. He fled in a stolen vehicle after shedding his clothes and remained on the run for days.

Massive Search Effort

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen credited a large law enforcement presence on a nearby hill Thursday with “flushing out” Brown, leading to his capture. Officers described the suspect as armed and extremely dangerous at the time of his arrest. The rugged terrain in and around Anaconda prolonged the search, according to Gov. Greg Gianforte, who praised the persistence and sacrifice of the search teams.

Ongoing Investigation

Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Attorney Morgan Smith said the homicide investigation continues, with details being withheld to protect the case’s integrity. Brown, a veteran of the Iraq War and the Montana National Guard, is now in local custody.

Community Resilience

Gov. Gianforte and Sen. Steve Daines commended the law enforcement effort and the resilience of Anaconda residents.

“For the past week, Anaconda and the surrounding community showed the country the resilience and grit that makes Montana special,” Daines said.

Stay informed this weekend with the latest headlines with Que Onda Magazine.

Rain chances climbs back up this weekend

ABC13 Houston
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Rain chances climbs back up this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Rain chances continue to peak in the afternoon on Saturday and Sunday.

What’s in store for the weekend?

The weekend will be hot but nothing extreme for August. There’s a 30% chance of a downpour today, with a 40% chance tomorrow as the heat dome moves away and an upper level low develops over the Texas coastline.

How does the weather look for those going back to school next week?

It’s looking like typical August weather! It will be hot with highs near averages in the mid 90s, and every afternoon there’s a 30%-40% chance for showers and thunderstorms. These storms could impact afternoon recesses and after-school activities.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Dexter has dissipated and is no longer a threat. We are also monitoring two areas of potential development, one off the East Coast and one over the central Atlantic. We continue to see signs that the tropics may become even more active the second half of August as wind shear relaxes across the Gulf, Caribbean, and West Atlantic. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific remains very active. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Administration Doubles Bounty on Venezuela’s Maduro to $50 Million

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Administration Doubles Bounty on Venezuela’s Maduro to $50 Million

The United States is offering a $50 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Thursday, calling him “one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world” and a national security threat.

Background on Charges

Maduro was first indicted by the Trump administration in 2020 on narcoterrorism charges, with a $15 million bounty that later rose to $25 million. U.S. officials say the Venezuelan leader heads the Cartel de Los Soles and works with other criminal organizations, including the Sinaloa cartel, to traffic cocaine into the U.S. Bondi said authorities have seized 30 tons of cocaine linked to Maduro and nearly seven tons tied directly to him.

Political Isolation and Sanctions

The U.S. has not recognized Maduro as president since 2019, citing flawed elections in 2018 and alleged fraud in 2024. Sanctions under the first Trump administration cut Venezuela off from the U.S. financial system and blocked oil imports. A brief easing of sanctions during the Biden administration ended after officials said promised free elections did not occur.

Maduro’s Response

Maduro denies any drug trafficking ties, once telling The Washington Post the allegations “make me laugh.” Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil dismissed the new reward as a distraction from U.S. domestic issues, posting a yawning emoji alongside Bondi’s announcement.

Impact on Venezuela

Maduro has led Venezuela since 2013, following Hugo Chávez’s death. His tenure has been marked by economic collapse and mass migration, with 7.7 million Venezuelans leaving the country — hundreds of thousands arriving in the U.S. in recent years.

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

Rain chances climbs back up this weekend

ABC13 Houston
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0
Rain chances climbs back up this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — There’s still a small chance for an afternoon downpour on Friday, but there’s only a 20% chance you’ll cross paths with one. A heat ridge will dominate the sky over most of Texas, pushing the temperature in Houston back up toward 100 degrees.

Temperatures will quickly warm into the 90s by noon. Highs in Houston will again peak around 100. There will be less moisture available in the atmosphere for showers and thunderstorms than in previous days, but if a shower does pop up over your neighborhood it could bring briefly heavy rainfall.

What’s in store for the weekend?

The weekend will be hot but nothing extreme for August. There’s a 30% chance of an afternoon downpour this weekend as the heat dome moves away and an upper level low develops over the Texas coastline.

How does the weather look for those going back to school next week?

It’s looking like typical August weather! It will be hot with highs near averages in the mid 90s, and every afternoon there’s a 30%-40% chance for showers and thunderstorms. These storms could impact afternoon recesses and after-school activities.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Dexter has dissipated and is no longer a threat. We are also monitoring two areas of potential development, one off the East Coast and one over the central Atlantic. We continue to see signs that the tropics may become even more active the second half of August as wind shear relaxes across the Gulf, Caribbean, and West Atlantic. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific remains very active. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Harris County Tightens Decorum Rules After Heated Early Childhood Education Tax Debate

Indira Zaldivar
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Harris County Tightens Decorum Rules After Heated Early Childhood Education Tax Debate

New Rules on Conduct Adopted

Harris County Commissioners Court has amended its rules of procedure, conduct, and decorum to strengthen standards for behavior during court meetings.

The change, passed unanimously by all four commissioners in the momentarily absence of Judge Lina Hidalgo for a medical appointment, adds new language to Section 5, requiring all county elected officials and employees to conduct themselves with “proper respect and decorum” when addressing the court, engaging in public discussions, or appearing in the courtroom.

The updated rules prohibit profane, insulting, or threatening language as well as racial, ethnic, or gender slurs. Violations can result in censure—a formal declaration of condemnation—by a majority vote of the court, with the action recorded in the official minutes.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis, while opposing the effort to censure Judge Lina Hidalgo, did vote in favor of adopting the amended rules.

Motion to Censure Hidalgo

The rules change was brought forward by Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, who also moved to censure Hidalgo for what he described as failure to maintain proper decorum on the Thursday Commissioners Court during the vote on her early childhood education “penny tax” proposal. Ramsey accused Hidalgo of using profane language in the courtroom in the presence a seven-year-old, during a separate incident on June 26.

‘Penny Tax’ Proposal Fails to Make Ballot

The motion came after a tense meeting in which Hidalgo’s proposal to place a small property tax increase on the November ballot fell short of the needed support. The measure aimed to continue funding for early childhood programs set to lose federal COVID-19 relief funding in 2026.

@queondamagazine Judge Lina Hidalgo’s push for a “penny tax” to fund child care, summer camps, and early education worker training failed to make the November ballot after a tense Commissioners Court meeting. The plan aimed to continue programs helping working families as COVID-era funds are set to expire in late 2026. Commissioners cited budget concerns and lack of data as reasons to decline support to put the penny tax on the ballot for voters to decide whether to fund the early education programs. #HarrisCounty #EarlyEducation #LinaHidalgo #ChildCareAccess #TexasPolitics #harriscountycommissionerscourt #news #explorepage #houstonnews ♬ original sound – Que Onda Magazine

Hidalgo brought dozens of children into the courtroom to emphasize the importance of the proposal, at times encouraging them to sit near the dais and chant in favor of the measure.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo holds a press conference to voice support for continued funds for the early childhood education programs.

Three of the four commissioners: Democratic Commissioners Lesley Briones Adrian Garcia, and Republican Tom Ramsey declined to support placing the tax on the ballot, citing budget concerns, lack of data, and the need to explore other funding options.

What’s Next

The updated decorum rules take effect immediately. While Ramsey’s censure motion against Hidalgo drew attention, it remains to be seen whether commissioners will take further action on the matter. The debate highlights deep divisions on the court, both over policy priorities and the tone of public discourse in county government.

Keep up to date with Harris County news with Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Orders Temporary Halt to ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Construction

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Judge Orders Temporary Halt to ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Construction

A federal judge has ordered construction on the controversial immigrant detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” to stop for 14 days following testimony about its potential environmental impact.

Temporary Restraining Order Issued

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Mary Williams granted the temporary restraining order after hearing concerns from environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. While detainees can still be housed at the site, all new construction must pause to prevent possible harm to the Everglades.

Environmental and Cultural Concerns

Opponents say the facility was built without legally required environmental impact studies in an area home to endangered species like the Florida Panther and land considered sacred by the Miccosukee Tribe. Tribal leaders and environmental advocates argue the detention center threatens both the ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Legal Battle Over Compliance

Plaintiffs claim federal and state officials bypassed environmental review laws, while Florida officials argue the state’s role exempts the project from certain federal requirements. The facility operates in what critics call a legal “gray zone,” with state management but federal funding.

High-Stakes Hearing Continues

The court is weighing whether the facility’s construction and use violate environmental laws. Located in the Florida Everglades, the detention center was rapidly built to hold over 3,000 detainees and sits near Miccosukee tribal land, including villages and sacred sites.

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

Hidalgo’s Penny Tax Proposal to Keep Early Education Programs Fails to Be Placed on the Ballot Amid Courtroom Tensions

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Hidalgo’s Penny Tax Proposal to Keep Early Education Programs Fails to Be Placed on the Ballot Amid Courtroom Tensions

By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz

Proposal to Extend Education Programs Falls Short

A proposal from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo to place a small property tax increase on the November ballot—aimed at extending early childhood education programs—failed Thursday after a contentious Commissioners Court meeting.

The plan would have funded and expanded programs that have served over 60,000 children originally supported by federal pandemic relief funds but lacked the necessary support from commissioners to advance. At this time, the programs’ original funds are set to expire in 2026.

Meeting Disrupted by Tensions and Children

@queondamagazine Judge Lina Hidalgo’s push for a “penny tax” to fund child care, summer camps, and early education worker training failed to make the November ballot after a tense Commissioners Court meeting. The plan aimed to continue programs helping working families as COVID-era funds are set to expire in late 2026. Commissioners cited budget concerns and lack of data as reasons to decline support to put the penny tax on the ballot for voters to decide whether to fund the early education programs. #HarrisCounty #EarlyEducation #LinaHidalgo #ChildCareAccess #TexasPolitics #harriscountycommissionerscourt #news #explorepage #houstonnews ♬ original sound – Que Onda Magazine

In a dramatic move, Hidalgo brought dozens of children into the courtroom to emphasize the stakes of the proposal. At times, she encouraged them to sit near the dais and chant in favor of the measure. The scene drew criticism from fellow commissioners who called it a breach of decorum and repeatedly asked for order.

Commissioners Withhold Support

Commissioners Lesley Briones, Adrian Garcia, and Tom Ramsey did not back the measure. Briones cited insufficient stakeholder engagement and the need to wait for a University of Houston study expected in 2026. Ramsey questioned whether the county had fully explored other funding sources and noted the county’s ongoing $270 million budget deficit.

Programs at Risk as COVID Funds Expire

The proposal sought to continue funding three key programs: Early REACH (free daycare and preschool), County Connections (summer youth camps), and ACCS (training for child care workers). These initiatives, launched in 2023, expanded access to child care and learning opportunities for thousands of families across Harris County.

Modest Tax, Broad Support

Hidalgo described the plan as a “penny tax,” costing the average homeowner about $24 per year. Supporters, including the Greater Houston Partnership, cited strong returns on investment and polling that showed two-thirds of voters support early childhood funding.

Ballot Deadline Missed After Recess

After it became clear the measure wouldn’t pass, Hidalgo called a 10-minute recess. The delay allowed the deadline to place the proposal on the ballot to lapse. She did not return to the courtroom after the break but stated, “If you want to vote no in front of the kids, that’s fine.”

Next Steps Unclear

While the failed proposal sparked intense debate and media attention, Hidalgo described the measure as her final attempt to preserve the programs and underscored her frustration: “This is all I’ve got.”

For more on Harris County, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

FBI to Help Locate Fleeing Texas Democrats, Sen. Cornyn Confirms

Edward Saenz
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0
FBI to Help Locate Fleeing Texas Democrats, Sen. Cornyn Confirms

Senator John Cornyn announced Thursday that FBI Director Kash Patel granted his request for help locating Texas House Democrats who left the state to block GOP redistricting efforts.

Federal Action Requested

Cornyn sent a letter Tuesday urging federal assistance in tracking down the lawmakers who fled to prevent a quorum. He thanked President Donald Trump and Director Patel for taking swift action, saying the Democrats must be held accountable for avoiding their constitutional duties.

Democrats Accused of Irresponsibility

Speaking on “The Mark Davis Show,” Cornyn called the Democrats’ absence “irresponsible,” especially given urgent legislation tied to recent flooding. He said their protest would ultimately fail, calling it “a stunt.”

Redistricting Fight Continues

The Texas House has repeatedly failed to pass the GOP’s new congressional map, which could give Republicans up to five more seats in the next midterms—enough to solidify their U.S. House majority. House Speaker Rep. Dustin Burrows said another attempt to establish quorum would happen Friday.

State and Federal Pressure Mounts

Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest the Democrats and return them to Austin. Meanwhile, Trump told ABC News the FBI may need to intervene, insisting lawmakers can’t “sit it out” and must “fight it out.”

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

Missing Fisherman Identified Nearly 30 Years Later

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Missing Fisherman Identified Nearly 30 Years Later

Human remains discovered by a hiker in Utah have been identified as belonging to a man who vanished during a fishing trip in 1997, authorities confirmed.

Grim Discovery at Fish Lake

In May, a hiker and his dog stumbled upon a hiking boot containing a human foot along the shores of Fish Lake. According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, the shoe model was only produced in 1996, prompting investigators to review cold cases.

David White’s Disappearance

David White of Washington, Utah, was last seen in September 1997. He had planned to fish with friends, but when those plans fell through, he went alone and never returned. His boat was later found moving across the lake, empty. A hat and a shoe were also seen floating nearby, suggesting he may have fallen into the water.

Years Without Answers

The initial five-day search yielded no further evidence. Nearly 28 years passed without resolution—until DNA testing on the foot matched one of White’s daughters with 99.9994% certainty.

Family and Authorities Express Gratitude

White’s daughter Stefanie Bennett thanked the hiker and his dog, as well as law enforcement, for their role in bringing closure. Sheriff Nathan J. Curtis acknowledged the case had weighed heavily on search and rescue teams for decades.

Closure at Last

The discovery has finally answered questions that lingered for nearly three decades, offering peace to White’s family and those who searched tirelessly for him.

For the latest headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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