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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.

Houston City Council launches fund for homelessness as Mayor pushes for outdoor sleeping ban

Edward Saenz
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Houston City Council launches fund for homelessness as Mayor pushes for outdoor sleeping ban

Houston Mayor John Whitmire is pushing to ban sleeping outside as part of his plan to address homelessness. On Wednesday (2/26), the City Council approved the creation of the Initiative to End Street Homelessness Fund, which will be managed by the city’s housing department. While currently empty, the fund is designed to receive money from multiple sources.

“A critical differentiator in Mayor Whitmire’s plan to End Street Homelessness is the establishment of a sustainable funding structure to ensure long-term solutions to homelessness,” Nichols told Houston Public Media in a written statement. “The proposed Initiative to End Street Homelessness Fund embodies this vision by braiding together local funding sources. This strategic approach allows us to remain flexible and adaptable, effectively addressing the unique and complex needs of those experiencing homelessness. Importantly, it aims to remove waiting times and prevent individuals who are at risk from falling into homelessness.”

According to his presentation, the first-year budget consists of $4.2 million from the City of Houston, between $8 million and $18 million from Harris County, $2.6 million from Houston First, $5 million to $8 million from local management districts, $10 million from the METRO transit authority and up to $20 million from philanthropy and corporations. 

The approved measure allows funding to be used for relocating homeless individuals from encampments into housing, creating hubs across the city for immediate services, and restoring public spaces for community use. Unlike past efforts that relied on federal funding, Whitmire’s plan focuses on raising local funds. Housing department director Mike Nichols said the city aims to raise $70 million in the first year from sources including the city, Harris County, METRO, local businesses, and philanthropic contributions.

A key part of Whitmire’s strategy is expanding the city’s civility ordinance, which currently bans sitting or lying on sidewalks in certain areas during the day. Nichols emphasized that before enforcing stricter policies, the city must first secure funding for rehousing and mental health services.

Since launching the initiative in November, the city has already cleared one encampment at Allen’s Landing downtown, working with various local organizations. Moving forward, the focus will shift to the downtown homeless population.

If fundraising is successful, Houston could become the first city to guarantee housing for all homeless individuals within 90 days. Kelly Young, CEO of the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County, highlighted the initiative’s collaborative approach and stressed that meaningful progress requires sustained funding.

According to Young, the initiative will next focus on the homeless population across downtown Houston. 

If the city is successful in raising funds, Young said, Houston could be the first city to ensure all people receive housing within 90 days of becoming homeless. 

“This is just something that actually costs money to do,” Young said. “You have to have the funding to be able to propel people’s lives forward when you’re literally taking them from the street, where they’ve been for a long time and had nothing for a very long time.”

Michelle Trachtenberg, Beloved Actress from ‘Ice Princes,’ ‘Gossip Girl’ Dies at 39

Indira Zaldivar
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Michelle Trachtenberg, Beloved Actress from ‘Ice Princes,’ ‘Gossip Girl’ Dies at 39

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in “Gossip Girl,”
“Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” and “Harriet the Spy,” has passed away at the age of 39.

New York Police Department officials confirmed that Trachtenberg was found unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment early Wednesday morning. Emergency medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene. While no foul play is suspected, authorities have launched an investigation, and the medical examiner will determine the cause of death.

Possible Health Complications Linked to Liver Transplant

While an official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, sources told ABC News that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and may have experienced complications. Reports indicate that she is believed to have died of natural causes.

In recent months, fans had expressed concerns about the actress’s health due to noticeable changes in her appearance. However, Trachtenberg responded to speculation in January 2024, assuring her followers via Instagram that she was “happy and healthy,” dismissing rumors of malnutrition or plastic surgery.

A Legacy in Film and Television

Trachtenberg’s career began at just three years old in television commercials, but she quickly became a household name. She captivated audiences as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of the cunning Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film career also flourished, with leading roles in Ice Princess (2005), 17 Again (2009), and EuroTrip (2004). She was also known for her work in Inspector Gadget, Black Christmas, and Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish. On television, she made memorable appearances in The Adventures of Pete & Pete, Law & Order, Criminal Minds, NCIS: Los Angeles, and Weeds.

A Private Life in the Public Eye

In recent years, Trachtenberg had stepped back from acting, though she remained connected with fans through social media. She hosted the true crime series Meet, Marry, Murder and made a brief return as Georgina Sparks in the 2021 Gossip Girl reboot on HBO Max.

Just days before her passing, Trachtenberg was still active on Instagram, posting photos and engaging with her followers. Her family, through a representative, requested privacy during this difficult time, expressing their deep sorrow over her loss.

Remembering Michelle Trachtenberg

With a career spanning decades, Trachtenberg’s impact on Hollywood remains undeniable. From childhood stardom to iconic teen roles, she left a lasting mark on television and film. Fans and colleagues have begun sharing tributes, celebrating her talent, wit, and unforgettable performances.

Her passing is a tragic loss to the entertainment world, and she will be remembered for the characters she brought to life and the legacy she leaves behind.

Keep up with this developing story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Foggy mornings continue until a cool front arrives

ABC13 Houston
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Foggy mornings continue until a cool front arrives

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — More fog will develop Wednesday night, then a cool front arriving Thursday will bring a momentary end to our foggy mornings, but the sunny afternoons in the 70s will continue into the weekend. The front arriving Thursday is Pacific in nature, so we’ll stay well above freezing behind the front and will only have a 10% chance of rain when it arrives.

What is the weekend weather forecast?

Saturday looks beautiful! Temperatures will start off in the upper 40s, then sunshine will warm temperatures into the 70s. On Sunday we’ll be grazed by a Pacific storm system swinging through the southern Plains. This will bring widespread clouds and a 20% chance for an isolated shower. Temperatures will start off in the upper 50s and warm into the low 70s.

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!

Any big storms in the near future?

We are eyeing a stronger Pacific storm system that could impact us around Tuesday of next week. For now we have a 60% chance of thunderstorms in the forecast, and we’ll need to watch this one for its potential to bring severe weather to Texas.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

First Measles Fatality Reported Amid Growing West Texas Outbreak

Indira Zaldivar
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First Measles Fatality Reported Amid Growing West Texas Outbreak

A measles outbreak that has been spreading across rural West Texas has claimed its first life, health officials confirmed Wednesday. The patient, who was hospitalized with the highly contagious virus, passed away overnight, marking the first fatality since the outbreak began in late January.

Melissa Whitfield, with the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, confirmed the death but did not provide further details about the patient, including their age. Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock, where many measles cases have been treated, has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Outbreak Reaches 124 Cases, Spreads Beyond Texas

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the number of confirmed measles cases has surged to 124 across nine counties, with an additional nine cases reported in eastern New Mexico. The outbreak has also affected Houston, where at least two cases have been identified.

Health officials report that 18 individuals have been hospitalized due to complications from the virus. Measles, a respiratory infection, is known for its high transmission rate—up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will become infected, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While many children recover from measles without severe consequences, the virus can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and, in rare cases, death.

Community at the Center of the Outbreak

The outbreak has primarily affected members of the Mennonite community in rural West Texas. The region, characterized by small towns and vast stretches of land, sees frequent travel between communities for work, church, and daily activities, contributing to the rapid spread of the virus.

Health officials continue to urge vaccination, emphasizing that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection. As the outbreak unfolds, authorities are monitoring the situation closely and encouraging those who are unvaccinated or at high risk to take precautions.

This remains a developing story, with health officials providing ongoing updates on the outbreak’s trajectory and containment efforts.

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

Astros top prospect smacks two home runs in first few days of Spring Training

Edward Saenz
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Astros top prospect smacks two home runs in first few days of Spring Training

Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown referred to new top prospect Cam Smith as an “aircraft carrier” when discussing the 6-foot-3, 224-pound right-hander. 

Smith’s power at the plate is already making Brown’s description look prescient early in Spring Training. Smith, who the Astros acquired in December’s blockbuster trade of Kyle Tucker, bashed not one, but two home runs in Tuesday’s contest against the New York Mets in West Palm Beach, Florida. 

Smith went opposite way to right field with a line-drive home run in the bottom of the sixth, then smacked a towering shot to right-center field. The Florida State product and 2024 first-round pick smacked 16 extra-base hits (including seven home runs) in 32 minor-league games last season. 

He’s enjoying a similarly smooth ascent this spring in his first games with a new club. Given his dearth of minor league experience to date, Smith is unlikely to play for the Astros in 2025. However, Houston’s brass will gushingly praise his expected baseball future. 

Brown’s endorsement of Smith was echoed by Hall of Fame first baseman and current team advisor Jeff Bagwell, who noted that he believes Smith’s talent is “off the charts.” “Cam Smith is a big deal that we got out of that trade with Chicago,” Bagwell told MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart in February. 

“He looks good in a uniform. He’s a big ‘ol kid, a great kid, wants to learn. I think [his] talent [is] off the charts.” “He’s got a chance to do some special things, I really believe that.” 

Smith could be the Astros’ future at his current defensive home of third base, and Brown added Smith could experiment defensively at either first base or left field in 2025. Positional considerations will arrive at a later date, likely in 2026. 

For now, Houston’s coaches and management will spend the spring and summer evaluating the growth of Smith’s already-impressive bat.

METRO earmarks $10 million for Houston Homeless Initiative. How will it be spent?

Edward Saenz
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METRO earmarks $10 million for Houston Homeless Initiative. How will it be spent?

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

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — This Thursday, METRO’s board is expected to approve an agenda item that will give $10 million to Houston Mayor John Whitmire’s initiative to combat homelessness in the city.

The vote came after METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock told reporters on Tuesday that the entity “will take back our buses, our shelters, and our transit system from the homeless.”

The statement mirrored Whitmire’s remarks in November when he announced his initiative to combat homelessness.

He told reporters, “You help the homeless by getting them off the street and reclaiming our public spaces.”

To implement the initiative, Whitmire told reporters that he and his team believe the city needs to secure $70 million in funding annually-a tall ask considering the city’s budget deficit of $300 million to $350 million.

According to the City’s Housing Department, a substantial amount of funding has been secured for the next two years.

“I think you’re gonna start to notice a change immediately. I think the problem right now is a lack of funding, and the city has had a lack of funding. They have a deficit, and we’re gonna try to help with that and accelerate that process,” Gonzalez Brock said.

ABC13 asked Gonzalez Brock how the $10 million, if approved, will be spent. Ultimately, she deferred to the city.

“What we’re doing is contributing to the Mayor’s homeless initiative because they are the professionals that are gonna be responsible for handling and coming up with a strategy to deal with the homeless while we can get back to our mission of transporting people,” she said.

ABC13 contacted the Mayor’s Office and the City Housing Department. A spokesperson for the Housing Department responded with the following statement:

“At this time, we are unable to provide a full breakdown of the intended uses of the funds. However, we can confirm that these resources will be instrumental in enhancing our targeted efforts to establish proper ‘front doors,’ key access points of immediate support for those in need. This assistance includes adequate housing interventions, resource hubs, and stacked supportive services. These efforts are designed to provide comprehensive support and direct pathways out of homelessness, as well as to prevent individuals who have fallen through the gaps from becoming homeless. Additionally, funds will be leveraged to support the sustained maintenance and safety of our streets, transit spaces, and parks following encampment decommissioning.”

Sex assault charges dismissed against former NASA engineer

Edward Saenz
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Sex assault charges dismissed against former NASA engineer

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

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Dismissals were filed in all seven sex assault cases against a now former NASA engineer two days before it was set for trial.

Eric Sim, 38, was accused of sexually assaulting women he met on dating apps from 2019 to 2023.

Six of the cases were dismissed for not having proof beyond a reasonable doubt, according to court filings, and one was dismissed at the request of the complainant.

One of the women told authorities when the cases were originally filed that she believed she was drugged prior to the assault and woke up with injuries she did not remember sustaining and evidence that sexual intercourse happened. Court records say the woman contracted an STD from the assault. Another woman said she told Sim she could not participate in sexual activity but that he proceeded to forcefully assault her.

Other women later came forward, and prosecutors at the time said the allegations all had similarities.

The district attorney’s office said the decision was made to dismiss the charges after reviewing the evidence, which included five terabytes of data.

Forensic analysis of an external hard drive turned up a folder labeled “sex tapes” and several other folders with women’s first and last names, according to an affidavit for a search warrant filed on June 24, 2024. Detectives noted finding numerous videos of sexual encounters in Sim’s home.

Sim’s attorney, Neal Davis, said he was not surprised by the dismissals.

“From day one with you and others, I’ve said that these are false allegations, and we will win this case,” Davis said.

While Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare was not with the DA’s office at the time charges were filed, he said the case was handled in the “right way” and defended the decision to file charges quickly before having all the evidence.

“When you talk about multiple victims, and you talk about the predatory behavior that was exhibited in every one of these different cases, it made sense to file the charges to prevent any future victims,” Teare explained.

He said they knew they could not prove the cases and had an obligation to dismiss them.

“To get to the level of sexual assault, we need some definitive proof, and this is not in any way casting aspersions on the survivors or saying we don’t believe them,” Teare explained.

Davis was critical of former District Attorney Kim Ogg’s decision to hold a press conference and call for other victims worldwide due to Sim’s international travel.

“This case was initially filed under Kim Ogg,” Davis said. “It was done under very political circumstances where she was running for reelection, and the HPD rape unit was under fire, and unfortunately, really sadly, Eric Sim became her political football.”

He said Sim was forced to resign his position from NASA following the charges and suffered under the bond conditions that were set, including 24 house arrest and monitored web usage.

According to his attorney, Sim is relieved that the charges were dropped and decompressing from the “nightmare.”

“The next question is how much can he repair his reputation because so much damage was done to it in Kim Ogg’s press conferences and other media statements,” Davis said. “That’s really what he’s focused on, is trying to repair his reputation, getting back to a normal life.”

NRG Stadium’s Future: Upgrades, Debate, and the Possibility of a New Venue

Edward Saenz
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NRG Stadium’s Future: Upgrades, Debate, and the Possibility of a New Venue

As of February 2025, NRG Stadium in Houston is undergoing several developments concerning its infrastructure and future.

Immediate Upgrades: In preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation has approved funding to replace 4,750 damaged seats at a cost of $305,644. Additionally, modifications to the pitch area will be made to comply with FIFA regulations, including the installation of a new grass surface. These enhancements aim to ensure the stadium meets international standards for the upcoming matches.

Long-Term Considerations: The Houston Texans are evaluating the future of their home venue as their lease at NRG Stadium approaches its expiration in 2032. An independent assessment estimates that maintaining and upgrading the current facility could cost approximately $1.4 billion over the next 30 years. This significant financial consideration has prompted discussions about whether to invest in extensive renovations or to construct a new stadium altogether.

Public Sentiment and Financial Implications: The prospect of building a new stadium has sparked debate among local officials and residents, especially given that Harris County still owes $1 billion from the original construction of NRG Stadium, with repayments extending until 2056. Many community members and commentators have expressed concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers and the potential wastefulness of abandoning a relatively young facility. Some have suggested alternative uses for the existing stadium site, such as developing affordable housing to benefit the community.  

While the Texans’ priority remains supporting renovations to NRG Stadium, they are also exploring all potential solutions to ensure the long-term success of the team and the venue. Collaborations with stakeholders, including the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Harris County officials, are ongoing to identify the best path forward. 

Houston Sports Awards 2025: Celebrating the City’s Top Athletes and Game-Changing Moments

Edward Saenz
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Houston Sports Awards 2025: Celebrating the City’s Top Athletes and Game-Changing Moments

The 2025 Houston Sports Awards celebrated the city’s outstanding athletic achievements, with winners announced over a week-long virtual event from January 13 to 17, 2025. This format allowed for daily recognition of honorees across seven categories, enhancing community engagement and spotlighting individual accomplishments. 

Athlete of the Year and Moment of the Year

Houston’s gymnastics icon, Simone Biles, was a standout, securing both Athlete of the Year and Moment of the Year. Her exceptional performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she added four medals to her collection, including her second Olympic All-Around Gold, captivated audiences worldwide and solidified her legacy in gymnastics history. 

Inspiration Award

Greg Jones, a dedicated football and disabilities track coach at George Ranch High School, received the Inspiration Award. His unwavering commitment to empowering athletes with disabilities has made a profound impact, fostering inclusivity and resilience within the sports community. 

Community Impact Award

The Knockout Factory, a boxing gym located in Houston’s East End, and Frank Ross, the Houston Texans’ special teams coach, were honored with the Community Impact Award. Their charitable initiatives, particularly those benefiting the homeless, have significantly contributed to the well-being of the Houston community. 

High School Coach of the Year

Willie Gaston, head football coach at North Shore High School, was named High School Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, the Mustangs achieved a Top 10 national ranking, demonstrating excellence and dedication to high school athletics. 

Lifetime Achievement Award

Janice McNair, co-founder and senior chair of the Houston Texans, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Over the past six decades, Mrs. McNair has profoundly influenced the Houston community through her philanthropic endeavors, focusing on education and medical research. Together with her late husband, Bob McNair, she has contributed over half a billion dollars to various charitable organizations, including The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, the Houston Texans Foundation, and The Robert and Janice McNair Educational Foundation. Since its establishment in 2002, the Houston Texans Foundation alone has raised nearly $48 million. Mrs. McNair’s dedication to the community and her active involvement in the Houston Texans organization have solidified her legacy as a pivotal figure in Houston’s sports and philanthropic landscapes.

The 2025 Houston Sports Awards, presented by the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, highlighted the diverse talents and contributions of the city’s sports figures. By adopting a virtual format, the event ensured that honorees received personalized recognition, celebrating their achievements in a manner that resonated with the community.

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