Major layoffs across Texas, New York, Washington, and California have left hundreds jobless just days into President Donald Trump’s second administration.
Texas: Houston Refinery Shuts Down
LyondellBasell is set to permanently close its Houston refinery, leaving 400 employees unemployed. The decision stems from environmental concerns and unsuccessful efforts to sell the facility. The company plans to repurpose the site for producing recycled plastic pellets in compliance with U.S. environmental regulations.
New York: CNN Cuts 200 Jobs
CNN has announced a 6% reduction in its workforce, impacting 200 employees, mainly producers and editors. The network is shifting focus to its digital platforms and developing a news streaming service to meet changing audience demands.
Washington: Layoffs at Amazon and Starbucks
Amazon plans to lay off 200 corporate employees, primarily in data engineering and merchandising, to improve efficiency. Starbucks is also downsizing corporate staff but assured that barista roles remain unaffected. CEO Brian Niccol cited the company’s complex structure as a challenge.
California: Stripe Reduces Workforce
California-based tech company Stripe laid off 300 employees, mostly in engineering and product roles. Despite the cuts, Stripe aims to expand its workforce to 10,000 employees by year’s end.
Implications and Next Steps
These layoffs present challenges for President Trump, who campaigned on job creation and economic growth. While corporate decisions drive these cuts, the administration faces pressure to fulfill its employment promises amid a shifting economic landscape.
Javier Loya, the chairman of OTC Group and part owner of the Houston Texans, shared his incredible journey from a young football enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. His story highlights the power of hard work, perseverance, and the deep impact of supporting communities, especially through education and diversity initiatives.
From El Paso to the NFL
Loya’s love for football began in his hometown of El Paso, Texas. Like many young boys in the state, he was introduced to the sport early, and it quickly became a central part of his life. For him, football wasn’t just a game—it was a way of life.
“For us, it was a unique experience because football was a means for us to get an education,” Loya recalls. He later went on to play football at Columbia University.
While Loya dreamed of going pro, he soon realized that making it to the NFL was a steep climb. As he progressed in his career, he understood the importance of education and the role football played in securing his future beyond the field.
The Entrepreneurial Leap
In 1994, Loya took a bold step into the business world. With an interest in commodities and natural gas, he saw an opportunity in the deregulation of the natural gas market. He moved to Houston and, with two partners, founded a natural gas brokerage firm.
“We were excited about it, probably naive about the risks, but we had the drive and the right opportunity,” Loya admits.
That early venture grew rapidly, and after 25 years, OTC Group employs over 500 people, becoming a significant player in the energy sector. For Loya, this success was built on the lessons of discipline and hard work instilled in him by his parents.
“My parents taught me the value of a dollar, the value of hard work, and the importance of discipline,” he says.
“These values are the backbone of both my personal and business life.”
Breaking Barriers in the NFL
As a part-owner of the Houston Texans, Loya is proud to be the first Latino owner in the NFL.
“I’m honored to be the first, but I hope I’m the first of many,” he says.
Being the first Latino NFL owner is a point of pride, but Loya also views it as a milestone for the broader Latino community. He hopes that in time, more opportunities will open up for minority communities to achieve ownership stakes in the NFL and other professional leagues.
“Football is a very competitive and exclusive world, but I believe it’s only a matter of time before more Latino and minority owners emerge,” Loya explains. He sees this as a natural progression of growing wealth and influence in America’s minority communities.
Giving Back to the Community
Loya’s commitment to supporting his community is as strong as his business acumen. His dedication to education, especially for underprivileged youth, is a central part of his philanthropic work. He has long been involved with LULAC, which aims to empower the Latino community through education and advocacy. Loya’s first exposure to LULAC came when his father, who had been unjustifiably fired, sought their assistance.
“It was my first connection to LULAC, and later, when I bought into the Texans, I was grateful for their support in helping to open up the ownership group,” he shares.
Recently, Loya made a significant donation to LULAC, supporting their 90th anniversary celebration. He hopes his contribution will further the organization’s mission to educate and uplift the next generation of Latino leaders. Loya’s belief in education extends beyond LULAC.
His support of programs like the Houston Showcase and the El Paso Showcase—which helps local students secure academic scholarships—shows his commitment to expanding opportunities for youth from all backgrounds.
The Power of Education and Entrepreneurship
When asked about advice for young entrepreneurs, Loya emphasizes the importance of both passion and hard work.
“Follow your passion, but also do what you’re good at,” he advises. He encourages young people to seek out internships, shadow others, and always be willing to learn.
“Education doesn’t stop,” he adds. “Even as an entrepreneur, you have to continue educating yourself, studying the competition, and staying on top of market trends.”
A Legacy of Giving Back
“We live in a welcoming city like Houston, which has a strong Latino presence. There are so many great stories here, and I’m just one of many. We all have the ability to succeed, and I encourage everyone to follow their dreams and work hard to see them through.”
Through his business success, football ownership, and commitment to giving back, Loya has become an inspiring role model for the Latino community and beyond. His journey from a young football player in El Paso to a major player in business and philanthropy shows what’s possible with dedication, passion, and a desire to make a difference.
Loya’s story is more than just about football or business success—it’s about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and lifting up others along the way. His contributions to education, his commitment to diversity in ownership, and his ongoing efforts to support the community serve as a reminder that when we help others rise, we all rise together. As Loya says,
“If it’s a level playing field, our community will perform. We just need to give them the opportunity.”
Emergency crews are responding to a serious chemical spill following an 18-wheeler crash on FM-1725 in San Jacinto County. According to our news partner ABC13, sulfur oxide was identified as the spilled chemical, leading to health concerns and the treatment of 37 individuals for symptoms such as sore throat and coughing.
Details about the condition of the driver and others affected remain unavailable, as officials have not yet released further information.
Scene Overview
SkyEye footage obtained by ABC13 shows an overturned 18-wheeler on the side of the roadway with a visible pool of liquid behind it. Emergency vehicles, including hazmat fire trucks, were stationed in clusters near the crash site, some as far as a few miles away from the incident.
The San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) confirmed on social media that a strong chemical odor was reported after the crash.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Initially, authorities evacuated a mile-wide area surrounding FM-1725 and Tyra Drive, near FM-3081. However, in a later update, TxDOT Lufkin expanded the evacuation zone to a three-mile radius. FM-1725 remains closed in both directions at FM-3081, and residents are being urged to avoid the area entirely.
For those displaced by the evacuations, a shelter has been set up at 250 Live Oak St. in Coldspring, providing support to evacuees as hazmat teams work to resolve the situation.
HAZMAT SPILL: The closure has expanded for three miles each direction from this spill. FM 1725 is closed at FM 3081 in San Jacinto County due to a crash that resulted in a hazmat spill. Avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/NhpJfpUUJs
During ABC13’s 9 a.m. streaming newscast, environmental toxicologist Dr. Noreen Kahn-Mayberry emphasized the seriousness of the spill and the importance of following official guidance.
“When first responders take this kind of precaution, as a private individual, you should take the utmost precaution,” Kahn-Mayberry stated. “If they say shelter in place or tell you to get out of the area, get out of the area.”
Ongoing Cleanup Efforts
Hazmat specialists are actively working to clear the scene, but officials have not provided a timeline for when the area will reopen. The immediate vicinity of the crash is heavily wooded, with a few homes nearby, further complicating cleanup efforts.
Residents and drivers are advised to stay updated through official channels as emergency crews address the spill and ensure public safety.
Con la temporada de impuestos de 2025 acercándose, aquí tienes una guía con fechas clave que establecio elIRS,consejos útiles y advertencias para protegerte contra estafas relacionadas con los impuestos.
¿Cuándo Comienza la Temporada de Impuestos 2025?
La temporada de impuestos comienza oficialmente el lunes 27 de enero de 2025. Este es el primer día en que el IRS comenzará a aceptar declaraciones para el año fiscal 2024. Sin embargo, no tienes que esperar hasta entonces para prepararte. Presentar tus impuestos temprano asegura que tu declaración esté en la fila para un procesamiento más rápido, lo que podría significar un reembolso más pronto.
¿Cuál es la Fecha Límite para Declarar Impuestos?
El plazo tradicional para presentar impuestos es el martes 15 de abril de 2025. Si debes impuestos, es fundamental cumplir con esta fecha para evitar sanciones.
¿Qué Pasa Si Necesitas Más Tiempo?
Si no puedes presentar tus impuestos antes del 15 de abril, puedes solicitar una extensión gratuita con el IRS. Esto te permitirá presentar tu declaración hasta el 15 de octubre de 2025, pero recuerda que debes pagar cualquier monto que debas antes del 15 de abril para evitar intereses y penalizaciones.
Solicitar una extensión es sencillo y puedes hacerlo de forma electrónica o utilizando el Formulario 4868 en papel. Asegúrate de incluir tu información básica como tu nombre, dirección y número de Seguro Social.
¿Cómo Evitar Sanciones por No Declarar a Tiempo?
Si no cumples con el plazo del 15 de abril y no solicitas una extensión, podrías enfrentarte a sanciones severas:
Falta de presentación: El IRS cobra un 5% del saldo no pagado por cada mes de retraso, hasta un máximo del 25%.
Falta de pago: Si presentas tu declaración pero no pagas lo que debes, se aplica una penalización menor de 0.5% al mes.
¿Cuánto Tiempo Tardan en Emitir un Reembolso?
Para la mayoría de los contribuyentes, los reembolsos se emiten dentro de 21 días calendario después de presentar la declaración electrónicamente. Las declaraciones en papel pueden tardar más, generalmente cuatro semanas o más.
La herramienta en línea ¿Dónde está mi reembolso? en el sitio web del IRS es la mejor manera de rastrear el estado de tu reembolso. La herramienta se actualiza cada noche y ofrece información confiable sobre tu declaración.
Cómo Evitar Estafas Durante la Temporada de Impuestos
La temporada de impuestos es un momento clave para los estafadores que buscan engañar a los contribuyentes. Aquí tienes algunos consejos importantes para protegerte:
El IRS nunca te llamará por teléfono ni te pedirá información personal por correo electrónico o mensaje de texto. Si recibes una llamada amenazante o sospechosa, cuelga inmediatamente.
No confíes en cartas falsas. Si recibes una notificación por correo, verifica la autenticidad ingresando al sitio oficial del IRS o llamando directamente a su línea de atención al cliente.
El IRS no exige pagos inmediatos con tarjetas de regalo o transferencias bancarias. Este es un método común de estafa.
Usa un software confiable para presentar tus impuestos. Si decides trabajar con un preparador de impuestos, asegúrate de que esté certificado por el IRS.
Ten cuidado con correos electrónicos o mensajes que parezcan ser del IRS. No hagas clic en enlaces sospechosos; podrían ser intentos de phishing para robar tu información personal.
Monitorea tus registros fiscales. Crea una cuenta en el sitio oficial del IRS para verificar el estado de tus declaraciones y pagos.
Consideraciones Especiales para Desastres Naturales
Los contribuyentes afectados por desastres naturales reciben automáticamente una extensión para presentar sus impuestos. Esto significa que no necesitas presentar documentación adicional para obtener más tiempo.
Prepárate para una Temporada de Impuestos Segura y Sin Estrés
Declarar impuestos no tiene que ser un proceso complicado ni un riesgo para tu seguridad. Mantén en mente estas fechas clave, protege tu información personal, y sigue los pasos necesarios para presentar tus impuestos correctamente.
Para más detalles o ayuda, visita el sitio oficial del IRS en irs.gov o consulta con un profesional de impuestos calificado.
Eligible taxpayers could see a boost in their bank accounts soon, with stimulus checks worth up to $1,400 arriving by late January.
This round of payments stems from the Internal Revenue Service’s December announcement that it would distribute approximately $2.4 billion to taxpayers who missed out on claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.
Why the Stimulus Payments Were Announced
The IRS initiated this distribution after reviewing data that revealed many taxpayers had failed to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit applies to individuals who didn’t receive one or more of the Economic Impact Payments, often referred to as stimulus checks, during the pandemic.
Who Qualifies for the Payment?
Taxpayers who left the Recovery Rebate Credit section blank or recorded a $0 on their 2021 tax return are eligible for this payment. If you’re unsure whether you claimed the credit, check your 2021 tax return for clarity.
How to Receive the Payment
The good news? No action is required. The IRS started sending payments automatically in December and will continue through the end of January. Eligible individuals will receive a notification letter, and the payments will be either directly deposited into bank accounts or sent as paper checks.
What If You Didn’t File a 2021 Tax Return?
Even those who didn’t file a 2021 tax return may still qualify. However, they must submit their return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by April 15, 2025, to be eligible for the payment.
This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that no eligible taxpayer is left behind in receiving pandemic-related financial assistance.
Keep up with more IRS news and income tax helpful information with us on QueOndaMagazine.com
HOUSTON, Texas (Que Onda Magazine)– As the weekend approaches, Houston residents can anticipate significant changes in the weather.
After several days of freezing morning temperatures, the city will see its last light freeze on Friday morning, followed by a milder and wetter pattern for the next week.
Friday Morning: A Final Freeze
According to meteorologists from our news partner ABC13, Friday morning will start off cold, with temperatures dipping below freezing in some areas. However, this will likely mark the end of freezing conditions for at least the next 7–10 days, providing some relief for those weary of the cold snap.
Saturday: Fog, Clouds, and Mist
The arrival of humid Gulf air over the cold ground will create widespread fog, low clouds, and drizzle starting early Saturday. Temperatures will gradually warm from the upper 30s in the morning to the 50s by the afternoon as a warm front moves in.
Although the rain chances remain low on Saturday, don’t be surprised by persistent mist and drizzle during the afternoon and evening. It may not be heavy rainfall, but the damp conditions will be noticeable, so keep an umbrella handy if you’re out and about.
Sunday: Showers and Thunderstorms
Sunday will see even milder temperatures, with morning lows in the 50s and highs reaching the 60s. However, the weather will take a stormy turn, with an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms. This marks the start of a wet weather period expected to continue throughout most of the upcoming week.
What to Expect Next Week
Sunday’s rain is only the beginning, as Houston braces for an extended period of wet weather. Stay prepared for cloudy skies and frequent rain showers over the next several days.
Key Takeaways for the Weekend:
Friday morning: A light freeze, then warming temperatures.
Saturday: Widespread fog, drizzle, and highs in the 50s.
Sunday: Thunderstorms likely, with highs in the 60s.
Plan your weekend activities accordingly, and keep an eye on the forecast as the weather evolves with us on QueOndaMagazine.com
AUSTIN COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — A manhunt is underway after a Waller County inmate escaped custody at a hospital in Austin County on Thursday evening, according to police.
The Waller County Sheriff’s Office said the inmate, Salvador Saucedo, was undergoing testing at the Midcoast Medical Center Bellville, located on North Cummings Road near West Highway 159, when he got away at about 7 p.m.
The Bellville Police Department said Saucedo was arrested earlier on Thursday.
Eyewitness News reached out to the sheriff’s office for details on his charges, but has yet to hear back.
Authorities described him as a Hispanic man who has face tattoos, missing front teeth, and brown hair with red highlights.
Investigators said he was last seen wearing an orange shirt and Lujan jeans.
Authorities posted about the escape on social media and shared a picture of Saucedo from previous body camera footage.
If Saucedo is seen or located, contact the Waller County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (979) 826-8282 or, in the case of an emergency, dial 911.
Law enforcement warns the public not to approach him because he is not handcuffed and considered dangerous.
The highly anticipated 2025 Oscar nominations have finally been revealed, following a brief delay due to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. In a livestream telecast on Jan. 23, Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang and Bottoms actress Rachel Sennott announced the contenders for the 97th Academy Awards. The ceremony, set for March 2, will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien and promises to celebrate some of the year’s most remarkable achievements in film.
A Diverse Slate of Nominees
This year’s Best Picture category features a diverse lineup of ten films, including “The Brutalist”, “The Substance,” “Wicked,” “Nickel Boys,” and “A Complete Unknown.” Notably, “The Substance,” a rare horror film nominee, has garnered five nominations, while the musical Wicked has also earned nods in multiple categories. Other standout titles in the Best Picture race include “Dune: Part Two” and “Emilia Pérez,” showcasing a wide range of genres from science fiction to biographical drama.
First-Time Nominees and Returning Favorites
The acting categories highlight a mix of seasoned stars and first-time nominees. Timothée Chalamet received a Best Actor nomination for his performance in “A Complete Unknown,” marking his second career nomination after 2018’s “Call Me By Your Name.” In the Best Actress category, Demi Moore’s role in “The Substance” earned her a nomination, alongside Cynthia Erivo (“Wicked”) and Karla Sofía Gascón (“Emilia Pérez”). Ariana Grande also made waves with her first Oscar nomination for her supporting role in “Wicked,” while Edward Norton and Jeremy Strong were recognized in the Best Supporting Actor category for their performances in “A Complete Unknown” and “The Apprentice,” respectively.
Milestones in Filmmaking
This year’s nominations underscore groundbreaking achievements in filmmaking. Coralie Fargeat’s direction of “The Substance” earned her a nod in the Best Director category, making her one of the few female directors to be recognized. In the Best Original Song category, standout entries include “Mi Camino” from Emilia Pérez, performed by Selena Gomez and Edgar Ramírez, and Elton John’s “Never Too Late” from his biographical documentary.
A Challenging Year for Hollywood
The 2025 Oscar nominations arrive during a challenging period for Hollywood. The Los Angeles wildfires, which delayed the announcement, have left a significant impact on the film community. The Academy issued a heartfelt statement expressing condolences to those affected and emphasizing their support through partnerships with organizations like the Motion Picture Television Fund. This somber backdrop adds a layer of resilience and unity to this year’s celebrations.
What to Expect on Oscar Night
With Conan O’Brien at the helm as host, audiences can anticipate a blend of humor and heartfelt moments during the ceremony. The 97th Academy Awards aims to honor not only the industry’s finest talents but also the enduring spirit of Hollywood in the face of adversity. As we await the March 2 ceremony, one thing is clear: being nominated for an Oscar remains one of the highest accolades in cinema.
Where to Watch?
The 97th Oscars will be broadcasted live on your local ABC channel and livestreamed on Hulu on March 2 starting at 5:30 p.m Central time with the red carpet portion of the show. At 6 p.m. the show itself is set to begin. While Hulu is the main streaming platform, subscribers to YouTube TV, AT&T TV, or FuboTV will also be able to watch live on those platforms.
Comics have long been a space for creative storytelling and vibrant art. For creators Julio Anta and Jacoby Salcedo, it’s also a powerful way to represent Latinx culture, often overlooked in mainstream media.
During a recent talk at the University of Houston-Downtown, they discussed their journey into comics, collaboration, and the importance of authentic storytelling.
Growing up with Comics
Both Anta and Salcedo found their love for comics early in life, but their paths to creating them were unique. “I grew up with comics, anime, and cartoons,” Anta recalled.
“But growing up, I didn’t see much Latinx representation in the medium. So, I started writing stories from a Latino perspective.” For Salcedo, the drive came from an innate passion for drawing. “I’ve always loved drawing,” he said. “My mom pushed me into art college, and that’s when I began creating my own comics.”
Credit: Edward Saenz/QOM
The Power of the Comics Medium
When asked what makes comics a powerful form of story telling, Anta highlighted the unique way they can engage readers. “With comics, you can read at your own pace,” he explained. “You can slow down and really di gest each individual scene.” Salcedo pointed out the close-knit community of creators. “It’s a small community of great people, which makes working in comics even more special,” he said.
Collaborating as Creators
The duo’s collaboration has been an organic process built on mutual respect and shared interests. They began working on mini-com ics together, using smaller projects to hone their teamwork and craft. “We share ideas and stories back and forth, brainstorming on what we can create together,” Anta said. Salcedo agreed, adding, “It’s very natural for us to collaborate. We have the same interests and ideas.”
Research & Reality in Their Work
Research plays a key role in their creative process, especially for Anta. “All my writing comes from personal interests and emotions,” he said. “Whether it’s fantasy or super hero stories, they’re all grounded in real events.” For Salcedo, the visual aspect requires accuracy.
“Real places make drawing easier. I use Google Maps and his historical photos to ground things like character designs and clothing.” When asked about the challenges of designing characters, Salcedo admitted that creating a new Blue Beetle suit was tough. “It’s alien tech, so it was hard to balance that with a sense of realism,” he said.
Representing Latinx Identity
For Anta, writing about Lat inx identity is crucial. “We make up 20% of the population but are only about 6% of the creators in media,” he said. “I feel a responsibility to tell these stories authentically.”
One way Anta incorporates Latinx culture into his work is through language. “My focus is always on what’s authentic—what language the characters would realistically be speaking.”
Credit: Edward Saenz/QOM
Comics as Tools for Social Change
Both creators see comics as a platform for social change. Anta recalled how, after his first comic, readers reached out to say it was the first time they’d seen themselves represented in the media.
“Art should reflect the real world,” he said. “It’s a tool to shatter pre-existing notions of marginalized groups.” Salcedo, too, spoke about the power of telling stories that matter, particularly their work focused on the U.S.-Mexico border. “It was the first time I’d seen a story near the border, and it was important to respect and share that story,” he said. Anta emphasized the importance of confronting the realities of the border.
“The border is a highly politicized place, but migration has been happening forever,” he said. “If we want this global economy to continue, we need migrants. It’s important to inspire and educate people about this.” For Anta, the overarching message of his work is about understanding and sharing stories.
“What’s happening at the border isn’t new; it’s just evolved,” he said. Despite the challenges and pushback, including frequent rejections from publishers, Anta remains committed to his vision. “These books are for social change, so pushback is expected,” he said.
Moving Forward: Authenticity and Representation
Anta and Salcedo’s dedication to telling real, grounded stories from a Latinx perspective is clear in everything they create. Whether designing new characters, working on bilingual books, or confronting social issues like migration, their work reflects their belief in the power of comics to teach, inspire, and spark change. In a world where Latinx representation is still limited, creators like Anta and Salcedo are leading the charge, ensuring that their stories—and the stories of their communities—are heard
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The City of Houston’s reputation as a big city with low-cost living is at risk.
Houstonians face surging home prices, rising rent costs, and escalating insurance rates.
Local real estate expert Tricia Turner joined Eyewitness News to explain how housing is impacting the affordability of this city.
Turner said interest rates are the biggest difference in housing over the last two decades of her experience.
Rising rates have impacted prospective home buyers across the country. However, Houston, as a Gulf Coast city, has been hit particularly hard by rising insurance rates.
First-time home buyers are feeling the brunt of the affordability crisis.
Turner said younger people are facing economic challenges like student loan debt and credit card debt.
There is also a cultural shift. Younger generations are prioritizing experiences and education while waiting longer to start a family.
Turner said she thinks mortgage rates may come down a bit next year, but it’s not guaranteed.
If they do improve, that could give buyers a better chance of affordability.
Home buyers who are still struggling to find affordable housing options in today’s market, even with recent reductions in mortgage rates, could still find it challenging if home prices are increasing.
For people looking to buy a house in 2025, Turner suggests knowing your budget.
Focus on your monthly housing payment, which is affected by the price of the home, your down payment, mortgage rate, loan term, home insurance, and property taxes.
You may not be able to afford your dream home right now, but consider your budget and buy something practical.
This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more on this story, click here.
