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Houston Health Department Offers Free Measles Vaccination Clinic Amid Rising Cases

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston Health Department Offers Free Measles Vaccination Clinic Amid Rising Cases

HOUSTON – With measles cases on the rise across the country, the Houston Health Department is stepping up efforts to keep the community protected.

This Saturday, HHD will host a free measles vaccination clinic for eligible children and adults at the Sunnyside Health Center, located at 4410 Reed Road.

The clinic will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Health officials stress the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles, a highly contagious virus that can cause severe complications, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

“Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we face, and it can lead to serious health consequences,” said Dr. David Persse, Houston’s chief medical officer. “The best protection against measles is vaccination, which is both safe and highly effective.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to ensure immunity. Additionally, adults born after 1956 who have never had measles or have not been vaccinated should receive at least one dose. Some high-risk individuals may require two doses for full protection.

HHD urges families to take advantage of this free clinic to safeguard their health and prevent further outbreaks in the community.

“With measles outbreaks occurring in various parts of the country, now is the time to get vaccinated,” Dr. Persse added. “We want to provide as much information as possible and ensure our community is protected.”

For more information about vaccine eligibility or additional health resources, visit the Houston Health Department’s website.

Keep up with the measles outbreak with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Amazing weather ahead this weekend, ABC13 Weather Watch declared for storms on Tuesday

ABC13 Houston
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Amazing weather ahead this weekend, ABC13 Weather Watch declared for storms on Tuesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our weekend weather ahead looks spectacular, but we do have a potent weather system arriving Tuesday that could bring severe storms to Southeast Texas. For that reason, we have declared an ABC13 Weather Watch for Tuesday.

We are starting off Saturday mostly clear with some patchy fog. Any fog should burn off by mid morning. Sunny skies will quickly warm temperatures into the low to mid 80s this afternoon. If your are heading to the Rodeo parade downtown, then make sure you stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun!

By the evening, some sea fog could return along the coast for Mardi Gras in Galveston. Temperatures at the time of the Knights of Momus Grand Night parade should stay in the 60s.

How does the weather look for the rest of the weekend?

Sunday looks spectacular! Temperature will warm from the low 50s to the mid 70s with a mix of clouds and sun. It will be a breezy day ahead of the storm system coming our way on Tuesday.

What are the chances we get severe weather on Tuesday?

At this time it looks like there’s about a 70% chance you’ll get rain with a 15% chance one of the storms near you could turn severe. The winds will be rather strong around this storm system, so even without any storms we expect wind gusts over 40 mph which could lead to isolated power outages. Any storm that does turn severe could produce wind gusts over 60 mph, hail, and tornadoes. The core of the anticipated severe weather outbreak will be well to our northeast, but we will be on the southern edge of where severe weather could occur.

Are we done with freezes now?

While we cannot 100% rule out a late season freeze just yet, more than likely we are done with freezes. On average, Houston’s last night in the 30s occurs around mid March. If we see any signs of a light freeze or frost on the horizon, we’ll be sure to let you know!

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Houston family mourns loss of woman murdered, allegedly by her husband, in Maine

ABC13 Houston
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Houston family mourns loss of woman murdered, allegedly by her husband, in Maine

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A Houston family is mourning the loss of a lifestyle blogger who police say was murdered by her husband while visiting her mother-in-law in Maine.

Family members told ABC13 that Margaux and Samuel Whittemore had only been married since September. They said Margaux seemed happy and was a yoga instructor who was thriving creatively. They said Samuel is a graduate of MIT and a former engineer.

Now, the family is understandably desperate to figure out where things went wrong.

“She was there to inspire people,” said Roger Risley, Margaux’s cousin.

Much of Margaux’s Instagram feed was picture perfect. At a young age, she caught the travel bug, and Risley was often there for the ride.

“I feel like I lost myself, in a sense, because that is how close we were,” Risley said.

Margaux was from France, but her grandparents and Risley live in Houston.

Risley said Margaux had recently moved to Belfast, Maine, where she started a life with her newlywed husband, Samuel.

“Sam, I don’t know much about his history. I never got the opportunity to actually meet him,” Risley said.

On Feb. 19, authorities say Margaux was at her in-laws’ home in Maine when things went horribly wrong.

Belfast police say when they responded to the scene, Margaux was dead outside the home and Samuel’s mother was inside with critical injuries.

“To go from zero to 100 like that, that’s the biggest question for all of us,” Risley said. “It’s just mind-boggling. You would think there would be signs.”

In photos posted to Instagram, the couple looks happy, and according to Risley, none of Margaux’s friends saw the warning signs either.

“It doesn’t change the outcome, but maybe if we can get a picture of the moments leading up to it or those days, I don’t know,” Risley said.

Police say Whittemore took off after the murder but was arrested shortly after.

He made his initial court appearance on Friday afternoon, but was ordered to undergo a competency evaluation before criminal proceedings can resume.

Risley says despite her brutal end, he will forever celebrate Margaux for living her life to the fullest.

“I’ll see her again. I have to, you know? That energy doesn’t just disappear,” Risley said.

Risley told ABC13 he’s working with other family members to get Margaux’s body back to France so her mother can bury her.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Ohio Bus Driver Saves Middle School Students from Fire

Que Onda Editorial
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Ohio Bus Driver Saves Middle School Students from Fire

A routine school bus ride turned into a terrifying ordeal Thursday morning when a vehicle carrying 15 middle school students caught fire. Thanks to the swift actions of the bus driver and prior safety training, all students evacuated safely, avoiding what could have been a tragic incident.

The fire, which broke out near a rear wheel of the bus heading to Monticello Middle School in the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District, was reported by Cleveland ABC affiliate WEWS. Witnesses described hearing loud booms before seeing flames engulf the vehicle.

“There were a couple of booms,” 13-year-old Britt Mosby told ABC News. “The bus driver said, ‘Everybody get off the bus.’ That’s when we ran from it and the bus just caught on fire. We were all scared. We called our parents. Luckily, the bus driver got us off safely.”

Nearby residents also witnessed the chaotic scene. Maureen Ottman, a neighbor, described seeing a child board the bus just before the explosion. “I heard a big boom. I looked out the window and saw flames coming from the side of the bus,” she said.

Another district vehicle quickly arrived to transport the students to school. Parents expressed immense relief at the driver’s quick thinking. “I’m highly grateful that everybody survived and was able to escape,” said Antwone Jones, whose child was on board.

Devin Morris Meadows, who had both a son and nephew on the bus, commended the driver’s composure. “It was very comforting hearing the bus driver had it under control,” he said.

The Cleveland Heights Fire Department and Ohio State Highway Patrol are now investigating the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, school officials credit regular bus evacuation drills for ensuring students knew how to respond in the emergency.

Keep up with breaking news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Lawmakers Renew Push for Dreamer Protections with American Dream and Promise Act

Indira Zaldivar
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Lawmakers Renew Push for Dreamer Protections with American Dream and Promise Act

A coalition of lawmakers has reintroduced the American Dream and Promise Act of 2025, aiming to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, known as Dreamers. The bill also seeks permanent legal status for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) holders.

“Dreamers are American in every way but on paper,” said Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), one of the bill’s sponsors. The legislation, backed by 201 congressional cosponsors and nearly 120 advocacy groups, was introduced by a bipartisan group including Reps. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL).

If enacted, the bill would grant Dreamers conditional permanent residency for ten years, protect them from deportation, and provide a pathway to full lawful status. It would also allow TPS and DED recipients to apply for permanent residency. Additionally, Dreamers could access federal financial aid and apply for relief even if living outside the U.S.

Supporters emphasize the economic benefits of the legislation. The Center for American Progress estimates that granting citizenship to Dreamers could boost the U.S. GDP by $799 billion over the next decade. DACA recipients alone contribute billions in federal, state, and local taxes despite being ineligible for federal benefits.

Advocates stress the urgency of passing the bill, particularly amid calls for stricter immigration policies. “Dreamers are an essential part of our communities,” said Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA). “They deserve the opportunity to be Americans.”

While previous versions of the bill have stalled in Congress, lawmakers remain hopeful that growing public support will drive action.

Keep up with immigration news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

While Texas Faces Worst Measles Outbreak in Decades, Abbott and other state officials remain quiet

Que Onda Editorial
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While Texas Faces Worst Measles Outbreak in Decades, Abbott and other state officials remain quiet

Texas is grappling with its worst measles outbreak in decades, with cases surging from two to 124 in just one month. One child has died, 18 are hospitalized, and experts warn the situation could worsen as low vaccination rates leave communities vulnerable.

Limited Government Response

State and local health officials have launched vaccine clinics and urged residents to get the highly effective measles shot. However, Gov. Greg Abbott and lawmakers from the hardest-hit areas have not publicly addressed the crisis. Unlike other states that enforce stricter public health measures, Texas has yet to enact policies such as preemptive school exclusions for unvaccinated students or mandatory quarantines after exposure.

Public health experts say the state’s response reflects lingering skepticism from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everybody is so sensitive to the vaccine topic due to COVID,” said Ector County Judge Dustin Fawcett. Infectious disease expert Catherine Troisi added, “There’s less political will now… People don’t want to be told what to do, forgetting that what they do can affect others.”

Urgency of Vaccination

The outbreak has highlighted Texas’ declining immunization rates. Gaines County, the epicenter of the outbreak, has a vaccination rate of just 82%, far below the 95% threshold needed to prevent measles from spreading.

“This is entirely due to low vaccination rates,” Troisi told The Texas Tribune. “And kids aren’t vaccinated because there is so much misinformation out there.”

Some areas have taken more drastic steps during past outbreaks. In 2019, New York imposed fines on residents in affected communities who refused the measles vaccine. But such measures are unlikely in Texas, where state leaders continue to oppose vaccine mandates.

“I don’t know what brings us back,” vaccine expert Dr. Peter Hotez told The Texas Tribune. “There was no auto-correction after 40,000 Texans needlessly died because they refused the COVID vaccine.”

With the outbreak still unfolding, public health officials stress that increasing vaccination rates remains the best defense against measles’ rapid spread.

Keep up with health news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Francis Friday update: Signs of recovery

Indira Zaldivar
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Pope Francis Friday update: Signs of recovery

Pope Francis has reached a crucial milestone in his recovery from pneumonia, marking two weeks since his hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. While doctors report that he has passed the most critical phase of the infection, they emphasize the need for continued medical observation before he can be considered fully out of danger.

Progress and Caution

Vatican officials have reassured the public that the 88-year-old pontiff remains actively engaged in his duties, despite his health struggles. His condition has improved significantly, as he has transitioned between high-flow supplemental oxygen and a mask, indicating enhanced respiratory function. Medical professionals remain cautious, stating that additional days of stability are required before determining his full recovery timeline.

During his hospital stay, Pope Francis has resumed limited activities, including prayer in the chapel of his private apartment and light administrative work. He also continues respiratory physiotherapy to aid his recovery. However, Vatican officials have refrained from announcing a discharge date, citing the complexity of his condition and the need for ongoing monitoring.

Global Concern and Support

News of Pope Francis’ health struggles has resonated worldwide, prompting an outpouring of prayers and well-wishes from the faithful. At Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Araceli Gutiérrez joined a vigil, expressing her deep concern.

“He is like part of the family. That’s why we feel so worried about him.” María Teresa Sánchez, visiting from Colombia, echoed this sentiment: “He has done so much for religion; he’s such a humble person.”

In the United States, Archbishop-elect Robert McElroy of Washington highlighted the pope’s enduring spirit.

“He is a man of joy and deep prayer who works tirelessly and does so with a sense of humor. He listens, engages with others, and believes in learning from those around him.”

Uncertainty Surrounding Key Events

While Pope Francis’ health is stabilizing, uncertainty looms over his upcoming commitments. The Vatican has already canceled a planned Holy Year audience, and it remains unclear if he will deliver his traditional Sunday noon blessing. With Ash Wednesday approaching, concerns persist about his ability to participate in Holy Week and Easter ceremonies, events that typically require significant physical endurance.

Beyond Easter, the pope has major engagements on his calendar. On April 27, he is scheduled to canonize Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint. Another key date is May 24, when Francis has been invited to Turkey by Orthodox leader Patriarch Bartholomew I to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. Although the pope previously expressed hope of attending, the Vatican has not confirmed his participation, leaving his long-term travel plans in question.

As Pope Francis continues his recovery, the world watches closely, hoping for his swift return to full health and leadership.

Keep up with Pope Francis’ diagnosis recovery with us on Que Onda Magazine.

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1319

Indira Zaldivar
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¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1319

13 Investigates found 9% of HISD’s uncertified teachers left during the school year

Edward Saenz
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13 Investigates found 9% of HISD’s uncertified teachers left during the school year

This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more on this story, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Diana Moore was sitting at the dinner table with her son when she found out his algebra teacher was no longer teaching at the Houston Independent School District.

“My first reaction was disbelief,” Moore told 13 Investigates. “I worried for him. It makes me nervous about his success because stability is kind of important. I’ve never had that happen to me when I was going through school. I never had a teacher just not be there anymore.”

Her son, Gavin Moore, a seventh-grader at Pershing Middle School, said that even though he received a letter at the beginning of the school year telling him his algebra teacher does not have a teaching certification, it is still one of his favorite teachers.

“He had a way of teaching that was easy to understand, and he would definitely give as much help as he could,” the seventh-grader said.

But, just months into the school year, Moore’s beloved algebra teacher left.

“On his last day, we all took a photo with him, and we drew photos for him on the whiteboards,” Moore said. “I was sad like he was a good teacher.”

Moore’s teacher is among at least 78 uncertified teachers who left during the first half of the school year, according to data 13 Investigates obtained from HISD.

About 16% of Houston ISD’s 13,000 teachers are uncertified.

A handful of HISD’s 2,100 uncertified teachers had no experience in the classroom, including a restaurant server who became a reading teacher, a probation officer hired to teach middle school history, and a marketing manager who turned into a math teacher, according to job applications, the 13 Investigates team reviewed.

13 Investigates spoke with Moore’s teachers and other uncertified teachers who left just months into the job. They told us they left because expectations were constantly changing, leaving them feeling unprepared.

An HISD spokesperson told us in a statement that a recent survey of teachers found 95% of them plan to return to the district next year.

“HISD started the 2024-2025 school year with around 2,100 teachers working toward certification. As of mid-February, 91% of those teachers still worked at the district,” the district said in a statement.

That means about 190 uncertified teachers have left the school district so far this year.

Jacob Kirksey, an assistant professor in the College of Education at Texas Tech University, has researched uncertified teachers and found they are three times more likely to leave a school than someone certified.

Based on his research, Kirksey believes it’s extremely tough when someone is expected to lead and manage a classroom, create lesson plans, and collaborate with fellow teachers and school leaders and hasn’t seen any of that model.

“It’s hard to become a teacher. That first year is tough for anybody, and so imagine what that first year is going to be like when you’ve had no preparation leading up to it,” Kirskey said.

Kirksey said that the trend of uncertified teachers at HISD mirrors what’s happening across the state.

HISD admits while teaching is an important job, it is hard and might not be for everyone.

“HISD has increased both teacher pay and teacher support across the district. But, even with better pay, better support, and the chance to make a difference, teaching isn’t for everyone. While it sounds like the teacher you spoke to made a positive connection with some students, it’s a shame he chose to leave after only three months,” HISD said in a statement. “When teachers leave in the middle of the school year, it is disruptive to students, and HISD moved to fill the position as quickly as possible. HISD will continue to focus on providing teachers with great pay, high-quality curriculum, and consistent support.”

While the number of uncertified teachers leaving the district is small compared to the overall number of teachers, it’s enough for parents like Diana Moore to question the education their child is receiving.

She said she moved her son into public schools from private schools a few years ago to help widen his experiences. Now, she’s considering pulling him out of HISD.

“I want a teacher that’s invested. I’m a nurse. People become nurses or teachers because they want to make a better future and improve things and make things better for people,” Moore said. “Imagine how much he put up with or what they’re putting up with that would make them leave.”

Houston’s renamed sustainability office to report to mayor, will continue addressing climate change

Edward Saenz
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Houston’s renamed sustainability office to report to mayor, will continue addressing climate change

The Office of Resilience and Sustainability, focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, no longer exists. Its duties now fall under a consolidated office called the Office of Recovery and Resilience, which reports to the mayor instead of another city department.

Houston City Council voted Wednesday (2/26) to replace the Office of Resilience and Sustainability with the new Office of Recovery and Resilience, which will report directly to the mayor. This change shifts oversight of the city’s Climate Action Plan from the previous office, which was under the Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department.  

Angela Blanchard, the city’s chief recovery and resilience officer, will now oversee the Climate Action Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. The plan includes goals like transitioning the city’s vehicle fleet to electric and low-emission options, improving public transportation, and expanding carbon capture technology.

Council member Abbie Kamin proposed an amendment, which was approved, to also place the Resilient Houston Plan under this new office. This plan focuses on improving transportation and emergency preparedness.  

Officials say the restructuring will not change the Climate Action Plan itself but will help ensure progress. Mayor John Whitmire’s chief of staff, Chris Newport, said the city will update the plan to focus on actions the city can directly control, such as reducing energy use at government buildings.  

Blanchard is also leading efforts to improve the city’s disaster response, particularly after recent weather events like flooding in Kingwood, the derecho windstorm in May, and Hurricane Beryl in July. Before joining Whitmire’s administration, she spent over 25 years with BakerRipley, a nonprofit focused on disaster recovery and community support.

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