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ERCOT issues Weather Watch from Jan. 20-23 for next week’s arctic cold front

ABC13 Houston
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ERCOT issues Weather Watch from Jan. 20-23 for next week’s arctic cold front

This story comes from our media partner ABC13. For me on this developing story, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — ERCOT has now issued a Weather Watch for Monday, Jan. 20 through Thursday, Jan. 23, ahead of next week’s arctic front.

The power grid is very much on the minds of Texans after hundreds of people died when the power grid collapsed in February 2021.

ERCOT graphs on the company’s website show that there will be more than enough electricity on hand to meet the anticipated demand for power over the next six days.

ABC13 will keep checking back for any changes to those projections.

ERCOT also sent ABC13 the following improvements they made to the electric grid since 2021:

  • Weatherization and Inspections. The ERCOT Weatherization and Inspections Program is entering its 4th season of cold weather inspections. In December, we completed 149 inspections. In total we will conduct a minimum of 450 generation resources or transmission service provider facilities by the end of February for this winter. ERCOT completed three full seasons of winter weatherization inspections with enhanced requirements for generation and transmission facilities and conducted its second summer weatherization inspections this past summer in 2024.
  • Firm Fuel Supply Service (FFSS). An additional source of onsite fuel for generators benefits the grid by providing a redundant, or additional, fuel source should there be a natural gas scarcity. FFSS Phase 1 created the FFSS service. Phase 2 expanded resources that can qualify. If a resource’s fuel service is firm and isn’t under a lower curtailment priority if there’s a curtailment event, they can now qualify.
  • Scheduled Maintenance Period. ERCOT has worked with generators and transmission operators to schedule their maintenance in the shoulder months while allowing ERCOT to reliably operate the grid in the off-peak seasons.
  • Forecasting Improvements. ERCOT has been working on reducing weather forecast error by procuring additional weather forecasts and developing load forecast models that are tuned for extreme cold weather. ERCOT has also improved the forecasting software testing process related to holidays and other outlier scenarios.
  • ERCOT Contingency Reserve Service (ECRS). Added in June 2023, ECRS takes advantage of resources that can start within 10 minutes to address unexpected or rapid changes in supply or demand.
  • Fast Frequency Response Service. Added in 2022, this addition to our ancillary services takes advantage of the capability of faster-responding resources to respond to events.
  • Critical Supply Chain and Critical Infrastructure Map. This map was created in 2022 to share the locations and connectivity of all the critical parts of the Texas power infrastructure.
  • Improved Inter-Agency Communications. Agencies are seeing improved, ongoing communications through both the Texas Department of Emergency Management and Texas Energy Reliability Council.

Houston-area school and college closings and delays

ABC13 Houston
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Houston-area school and college closings and delays

This story comes from our media partner, ABC13. For updated information on this developing story, click here.

When there are active reported school closings or delays around Houston and the surrounding areas, they will appear in a list below.

Closings Last Updated at 11:42pm on 1/17/2025

BARBERS HILL ISD Closed Tuesday  
BAY CITY ISD Closed Tuesday  
CLEVELAND ISD Closed Tuesday  
DAYTON ISD Closed Tuesday  
EAST CHAMBERS ISD Closed Tuesday  
MATAGORDA ISD Closed Tuesday  
PALACIOS ISD Closed Tuesday  
TARKINGTON ISD Closed Tuesday  
TIDEHAVEN ISD Closed Tuesday  
VAN VLECK ISD Closed Tuesday  

Why Old School RuneScape Players Are Upset With Jagex

Edward Saenz
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Why Old School RuneScape Players Are Upset With Jagex

Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the beloved MMORPG known for its nostalgia and community-driven updates, has recently faced some significant backlash from its player base.

The discontent stems from a series of controversial decisions and updates by the games developer, Jagex, which many players feel are out of touch with the community’s preferences and expectations. Here’s a breakdown of the primary issues fueling the frustration:

Membership Price Increases

Jagex recently conducted a survey exploring the introduction of new membership tiers. Some proposed tiers included higher prices in exchange for perks such as enhanced customer support and the ability to manage multiple characters on a single account. While intended to offer additional value, many players perceived this as a move prioritizing profit over player satisfaction. The potential price hikes drew widespread criticism, with some accusing Jagex of monetizing features that should be standard, or outright free.

Pronouns and Body Type Update

In a recent update, Jagex introduced options for players to select pronouns and body types during character creation. While this change would be aimed to enhance customization and inclusivity, it sparked controversy within the community. Some players argued the update came out of know where and was unnecessary or “forced,” leading to heated debates. The polarizing response highlighted divisions within the player base over the direction of such changes in the game.

Loot Mechanics of Tormented Demons

The introduction of Tormented Demons, a new type of in-game enemy with specific loot mechanics, added to the discontent. Players expressed frustration over perceived imbalances in the loot tables, and the issue escalated when some individuals began targeting Jagex developers with personal attacks. The situation prompted Jagex to release a statement urging players to direct their feedback constructively rather than targeting individual team members.

Community Concerns

These issues have contributed to a growing sentiment among OSRS players that Jagex is becoming increasingly disconnected from its community. OSRS has long prided itself on being shaped by its players, with major updates typically requiring approval through community polls. However, the recent controversies suggest a widening gap between Jagex’s decisions and the preferences of its dedicated fan base.

Moving Forward

As the tension between Jagex and its players persists, the company faces a critical challenge: regaining the trust of a passionate community that has been instrumental in the game’s enduring success. Open communication and a renewed commitment to community-driven development may be the key to resolving these conflicts and preserving the unique appeal of Old School RuneScape.

Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban, Citing National Security Concerns

Indira Zaldivar
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Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban, Citing National Security Concerns

The Supreme Court unanimously upheld a federal law on Friday that bans TikTok starting Sunday unless it is sold by its China-based parent company, ByteDance. The court ruled that national security risks tied to the app’s Chinese ownership outweigh free speech concerns for TikTok’s 170 million U.S. users.

“Congress has determined that divestiture is necessary to address its well-supported national security concerns regarding TikTok’s data collection practices and relationship with a foreign adversary,” the court stated in its unsigned opinion.

The ban, set to take effect on Jan. 19, will prevent new users from downloading the app and halt updates, eventually rendering it unusable, according to the Justice Department. Existing users will still have access for now, but functionality will degrade over time.

Biden and Trump’s views

Despite bipartisan support for the law, President-elect Donald Trump and President Joe Biden’s administration have offered contrasting views. While Trump expressed hope for negotiating a resolution, Biden’s administration has signaled it would not enforce the ban when it takes effect on Sunday, his last full day in office.

Dispute and Proposed Solutions

The dispute stems from fears that TikTok could expose vast amounts of user data to the Chinese government and allow content manipulation via its proprietary algorithm. TikTok has consistently denied these allegations, and its legal team argued that selling the company is complicated by Chinese laws restricting the sale of its algorithm.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Neil Gorsuch filed separate opinions expressing some reservations but agreed with the decision.

ByteDance has stated it will not sell TikTok, though some U.S. investors, including billionaire Frank McCourt and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary, have reportedly proposed deals to acquire the app’s U.S. operations.

Effect for users

The law also prohibits app stores like those operated by Apple and Google from offering TikTok and bars internet hosting services from supporting the app. However, questions remain about how enforcement will proceed and whether a potential sale could offer TikTok a reprieve.

Keep up with the latest tech, social media, and Supreme Court with us on QueOndaMagazine.com

Vianney De Aquino: Un homenaje a la resiliencia, el éxito y la inspiración internacional de la diseñadora mexicana

Indira Zaldivar
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Vianney De Aquino: Un homenaje a la resiliencia, el éxito y la inspiración internacional de la diseñadora mexicana

Houston, Texas – (Que Onda Magazine)

Vianney De Aquino, reconocida diseñadora mexicana de alta costura, fue honrada con una Proclamación Congresional y múltiples reconocimientos por sus contribuciones excepcionales al mundo de la moda y la cultura. El evento tuvo lugar el martes 7 de enero de 2025 en su icónica boutique de alta costura, Viann’k Mansur, para quinceañeras, ubicada frente al Galleria Mall en el 2901 W Loop S.  

Ivan Sanchez da un discurso para presentar la Proclamacion Congresional a Vianney De Aquino el 7 de enero del 2025. Credito: Edward Saenz / QOM

La proclamación fue presentada por el líder comunitario Iván Sánchez en representación de la oficina de la excongresista Erica Lee Carter. Sánchez destacó el notable trayecto de Vianney desde sus humildes comienzos en la Ciudad de México, donde fundó su empresa Viann’k Mansur con recursos limitados, hasta alcanzar reconocimiento internacional.  

“La historia de Vianney sirve como un faro de esperanza e inspiración para diseñadores, emprendedores y latinos en todo Estados Unidos,” expresó Sánchez.

“La historia de Vianney sirve como un faro de esperanza e inspiración para diseñadores, emprendedores y latinos en todo Estados Unidos.”

 Una carrera de logros internacionales  

Vianney también ha dejado huella a nivel global como la primera diseñadora mexicana nombrada la mejor en Dubái, Emiratos Árabes Unidos. Además, su trabajo fue destacado en la prestigiosa revista “Vogue” durante un evento en Turquía, reafirmando su lugar en la élite de la moda internacional.  

Durante el evento, Vianney compartió su inspiradora historia de perseverancia y humildad exclusiva con Que Onda Magazine.

“Hace cinco años llegué a este país con solo ocho dólares. Para mí es importante que todos vean hacia adelante. Tenemos un país lleno de oportunidades; aprovéchenlas, sean constantes y fuertes,” declaró la diseñadora.  

“Hace cinco años llegué a este país con solo ocho dólares. Para mí es importante que todos vean hacia adelante. Tenemos un país lleno de oportunidades; aprovéchenlas, sean constantes y fuertes.”

Un gesto de justicia y generosidad  

Las estudiantes Ana Pineda y Laurent Centeno reciben becas por parte de Viann’k Mansur, boutique de Vianney De Aquino el 7 de enero, 2025. Credito: Edward Saenz /QOM

En un emotivo momento, Vianney entregó dos becas a jóvenes cuyos premios habían sido revocados durante una sesión del Consejo de la Ciudad de Pasadena. Este gesto simbolizó su compromiso con la justicia y su deseo de empoderar a otros. El acto fue posible gracias a su colaboración con el miembro del Consejo Emmanuel Guerrero, quien había impulsado originalmente las becas.  

“Vianney ha construido un imperio y está devolviendo a la comunidad. Con todos estos logros, te damos gracias por abrir tu corazón tan grande, expandirlo más e invertir en estas jóvenes,” dijo el concejal Guerrero.  

Vianney estuvo acompañada por sus cuatro hijos, quienes le rindieron un respetuoso homenaje, destacando su fortaleza y dedicación como madre y profesional.  

Reconocimientos y celebración  

Además de este significativo gesto, la diseñadora fue reconocida por los Empresarios Hispanos de Houston, quienes le otorgaron su máxima distinción por su trayectoria inspiradora y su dedicación a crear oportunidades para la comunidad.  

“Historias como estas son las que llegan a nuestros corazones,” expresó Andrés Sánchez, vicepresidente de la Cámara de Empresarios Latinos. “Vianney quiso darles la oportunidad a dos jóvenes de educarse, salir adelante y representar a la comunidad hispana aquí en Houston y en todo el país.”  

La velada incluyó una ceremonia oficial donde se presentó una bandera estadounidense que había ondeado sobre el Capitolio en honor a Vianney. También participaron líderes comunitarios, defensores sociales y figuras influyentes de la moda.

Un legado de inspiración  

El evento fue un testimonio del impacto transformador de Vianney De Aquino, cuya influencia trasciende la moda. Con más de 500,000 seguidores en redes sociales y una presencia destacada en la industria, su legado inspira a generaciones a soñar en grande y perseverar.  

Su historia y sus logros son un recordatorio poderoso de que, con esfuerzo y determinación, es posible transformar los sueños en una realidad llena de propósito e inspiración.

Para mas historias inspiradoras de los latinos en Houston, siguenos en QueOndaMagazine.com

Deadly Avian Disease: What Harris County Pet Owners Need to Know

Indira Zaldivar
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Deadly Avian Disease: What Harris County Pet Owners Need to Know

A highly contagious disease, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), is spreading among ducks and other birds in Harris County and across Texas, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. This outbreak poses a potential risk not only to birds but also to household pets like dogs and cats.

Kelly Norrid, a spokesperson for the department, told the Houston Chronicle that HPAI has been confirmed in multiple ducks throughout Harris County.

“Much like influenza that impacts humans, avian influenza could be a returning or new strain,” Norrid explained.

Since December, there have been numerous positive HPAI test results in Houston, Harris County, and other parts of Texas. The disease’s reach includes cases among domestic ducks in Northwest Austin and reports of wild birds in Wharton, El Paso, and Potter counties. Recently, a sick bald eagle was also identified in northwest Harris County.

How Does HPAI Affect Pets?

Muscovy ducks, an invasive species commonly found in Houston, have been hit particularly hard. While their decline may benefit native species, these ducks can spread the virus to other birds and potentially to cats and dogs.

Norrid warned that prolonged exposure to infected ducks or consuming contaminated birds could infect pets with HPAI. “If dogs or cats consume or carry around an infected duck, they can become infected,” Norrid told the Houston Chronicle. Pet owners are advised to keep cats indoors and dogs away from duck ponds, especially in areas where sick ducks congregate.

Preventing the Spread of Avian Flu

The TPWD urges residents in affected areas to take several precautions:

  • Remove bird feeders to reduce bird gatherings.
  • Safely dispose of sick, dead, or dying birds using rubber gloves and masks, sealing carcasses in plastic bags before discarding them.
  • Avoid walking pets near areas where sick ducks have been observed.
  • After walking in potentially contaminated areas, leave shoes outside and wash hands thoroughly.

“If you have been walking in an area that you think is positive for the virus, maybe leave your shoes in the garage. Wash your hands. Take precautions as if you were trying to stop the spread of a disease that affects humans,” Norrid said.

Why It Matters for Pet Owners

The migratory flight routes across Houston and the Gulf Coast bring a steady influx of birds, increasing the potential for disease spread. These migratory birds can land in lakes or ponds with infected ducks, picking up the virus and carrying it to new locations. This keeps HPAI circulating in the environment, posing ongoing risks to wildlife and pets.

For pet owners, vigilance is crucial. By keeping pets away from potentially infected birds and following TPWD guidelines, you can help protect your furry family members from this dangerous disease. Stay alert, stay informed, and take the necessary precautions to keep your pets safe.

For more environmental news, stay tuned to QueOndaMagazine.com

Israel and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement: Hostage Releases and War Pause

Indira Zaldivar
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Israel and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement: Hostage Releases and War Pause

After 15 months of relentless conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced early Friday that an agreement has been reached to pause the war in Gaza.

The deal includes the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.

“I have instructed a special task force to prepare for the hostages’ return from Gaza,” Netanyahu said, adding that their families have been informed about the breakthrough, according to the Associated Press.

This agreement also aims to allow hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to their homes, many of which have been left in ruins due to the ongoing violence. However, the deal has sparked intense debate within Netanyahu’s coalition government. Hardline members, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have expressed strong opposition, threatening to resign if the ceasefire proceeds. Ben-Gvir described the agreement as “reckless” and warned it would “destroy all of Israel’s achievements.”

Despite these internal divisions, the ceasefire has been widely welcomed by international mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, who played significant roles in brokering the deal. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty urged both sides to “implement the ceasefire without delay,” emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The conflict, which escalated after Hamas’ October 2023 cross-border attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis and took 250 hostages, has devastated Gaza. Local health officials report that more than 46,000 Palestinians have died, with women and children accounting for over half of the fatalities. The military campaign has displaced 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, leaving many in squalid tent camps.

“Enough with the destruction and killing,” pleaded Omar Jendiya, a resident of Deir al-Balah, highlighting the despair among Gaza’s population.

As part of the agreement, the initial release of 33 hostages is expected within the next six weeks. In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Humanitarian aid will also be increased, and Israeli forces are set to withdraw from some areas in Gaza. However, significant challenges remain. Hamas has signaled that the release of additional hostages will depend on a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal, while Israel insists it will continue efforts to dismantle the militant group.

The deal has also raised questions about the future of Gaza post-conflict. Reconstruction efforts will be monumental, and debates continue over who will govern the territory moving forward. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has expressed concern over the high civilian death toll in Gaza but has supported efforts to achieve a ceasefire.

With the conflict entering a new phase, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this agreement can lead to lasting peace or merely a temporary pause in hostilities. As Netanyahu convenes his security Cabinet to finalize the deal, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution to one of the most devastating conflicts in recent history.

President Joe Biden Leaves TikTok’s Fate to President-elect Trump

Indira Zaldivar
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President Joe Biden Leaves TikTok’s Fate to President-elect Trump

In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden will not enforce a looming ban on the social media app TikTok, set to take effect a day before his term ends. A U.S. official confirmed Thursday that the outgoing administration is leaving the enforcement of the ban to President-elect Donald Trump, signaling a significant shift in the app’s uncertain future.

Last year, Congress passed a law signed by Biden requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, to divest its U.S. operations by January 19, the day before the presidential inauguration. However, implementation of the law remains unresolved as Biden departs office.

Incoming President Donald Trump, who once advocated banning TikTok over national security concerns, has since embraced the platform, pledging to keep it operational in the U.S. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, with reports suggesting he may receive prime seating on the dais. Incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz hinted that the new administration is open to finding a solution to prevent TikTok from “going dark.”

“The federal law allows for an extension as long as a viable deal is on the table,” Waltz told Fox News on Thursday.

The debate over TikTok has garnered bipartisan attention. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Biden to extend the deadline, emphasizing the app’s role in supporting millions of American users and influencers. “It’s clear that more time is needed to find an American buyer and not disrupt the lives and livelihoods of so many influencers who have built up a good network of followers,” Schumer stated.

However, Republican Senator Tom Cotton opposed the extension, labeling TikTok as a threat. “TikTok is a Chinese Communist spy app that addicts our kids, harvests their data, targets them with harmful and manipulative content, and spreads communist propaganda,” Cotton said.

The issue has also reached the Supreme Court, where justices recently heard oral arguments on the law mandating ByteDance’s divestment. Legal experts believe the court is likely to uphold the statute. Waltz suggested Trump’s administration would act decisively if the court supports the law. “President Trump has been very clear: TikTok is a great platform, but he’s going to protect [Americans’] data,” he said.

Trump’s evolving stance on TikTok is notable. Initially, he sought to ban the app during his first term, citing national security concerns. However, his campaign’s use of the platform during the 2024 election to connect with younger voters has reshaped his view. Trump credited TikTok with helping him capture youth votes, pledging during the campaign to “save TikTok.”

As the Biden administration hands over responsibility for TikTok to Trump, the app’s future hangs in the balance. Whether the incoming administration will successfully broker a deal or enforce the ban remains to be seen.

Nintendo unveils the new Switch 2

Indira Zaldivar
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Nintendo unveils the new Switch 2

By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz

Nintendo has officially unveiled the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, sharing a first look in a YouTube video that highlights the console’s updated design and features. As the successor to the widely popular original Switch, the Switch 2 retains the modular concept that made its predecessor a hit while introducing several notable improvements.

Larger Console and Redesigned Joy-Cons

One of the most prominent changes is the console’s size. The Switch 2 boasts a larger display, though a noticeable bezel remains around the screen. Alongside the size increase, the Joy-Con controllers have undergone a significant redesign. They are larger to accommodate the bigger screen and now feature a more rounded design for improved ergonomics. The controllers attach magnetically to the console’s sides, offering a seamless modular experience.

Sleek and Minimalist Aesthetic

Aesthetic changes also stand out. Unlike the original Switch’s vibrant, colorful options, the Switch 2 leans into a more understated look, with an all-black design accented by subtle colors near the controller sticks and the tops of the Joy-Cons. The result is a sleek, modern appearance.

Dockable Functionality and Improved Kickstand

The console retains its dockable functionality, enabling players to connect it to a TV. Detached Joy-Con controllers can be used individually or snapped onto a controller grip for a traditional gaming experience. For handheld gaming, the Switch 2 includes a redesigned kickstand. This new version is sturdier and more reliable than the original’s, providing better support during gameplay. Additionally, the USB-C charging port has been relocated to the top of the device, making it easier to charge while playing in handheld mode.

Backward Compatibility with Original Switch Games

Compatibility is another highlight of the Switch 2. Nintendo confirmed that it will support games from the original Switch, both physical and digital. A cartridge slot at the top of the device allows players to continue using their favorite physical games from the first generation.

A Glimpse at Upcoming Games

The reveal video featured only one game, a Mario Kart title that closely resembles Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It remains unclear whether this is a revamped version of the existing game or an entirely new installment in the franchise.

Enhanced Hardware and Future Announcements

Under the hood, the Switch 2 is expected to include upgraded internal components, making it capable of handling more demanding games. However, Nintendo has yet to provide detailed information about the hardware improvements.

Pricing and release details are still under wraps, but Nintendo has announced that more information will be shared during a Nintendo Direct livestream on April 2, 2025. This timeline suggests that the Switch 2’s release is still several months away.

With its larger size, enhanced controllers, and backward compatibility, the Nintendo Switch 2 appears poised to build on the success of the original console while addressing fan feedback and modern gaming demands. Gamers around the world are eagerly awaiting further details on what this next-generation console has to offer.

Stay tuned for more Gaming updates with us on QueOndaMagazine.com

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1316

Que Onda Editorial
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¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1316

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Houston’s premier Hispanic news network, dedicated to keeping you informed with the latest updates on local and national breaking news, community events, entertainment, chisme, and much more. We strive to be your trusted source for engaging and timely content that connects with our vibrant community and celebrates the culture and stories that matter most to you.

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