The U.S. military launched another deadly strike in the Caribbean, killing six people aboard a vessel allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Friday. It marked the ninth target in a controversial campaign that has claimed at least 40 lives.
Controversy Over Legality
Legal experts and lawmakers from both parties have questioned the strikes, arguing that lethal force against suspected traffickers violates international law and bypasses due process. Critics say the administration has yet to provide evidence that the vessels carried drugs.
Hegseth’s Warning to Cartels
Hegseth described the men killed as “narco-terrorists,” vowing relentless pursuit. “Day or night, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you,” he said in a statement defending the campaign.
White House Justification
President Donald Trump and Hegseth maintain the operations are lawful under Trump’s February designation of certain drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations.” The Pentagon claims the missions are meant to “change the psychology” of traffickers by instilling fear rather than relying on traditional interdiction methods.
Regional Fallout
The strikes have drawn sharp condemnation from Latin American leaders. Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused the U.S. of “murder,” alleging one strike killed an innocent fisherman. In response, Trump said he would withhold U.S. aid and impose tariffs on Colombia.
Pushback in Congress
Democratic Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine attempted to curb the operations through legislation, but Republicans blocked the measure. Senator Rand Paul also criticized the approach, saying, “We don’t just summarily execute people — we present evidence and convict them.”
Despite mounting criticism, Trump suggested he may expand operations, hinting at possible strikes on land to target what he calls “Venezuelan cartel strongholds.”
For more on international affairs under Trump’s second administration, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro issued an emotional appeal for calm on Thursday, urging in English, “No crazy war, please!” as tensions with Washington intensified following U.S. President Donald Trump’s admission that he had authorized covert operations against Venezuela.
A War of Words and Maneuvers
Trump denied reports that a U.S. B-1B bomber had flown close to Venezuela’s coast, calling them “false,” despite flight-tracking data suggesting otherwise. The U.S. maintains its military presence in the Caribbean as part of an anti-narcotics campaign, while Maduro accuses Washington of pursuing regime change.
Maduro’s Call for Calm
“Yes peace, yes peace forever, peace forever. No crazy war, please!” Maduro said during a meeting with pro-government unions. He condemned recent U.S. strikes that have killed at least 37 people and claimed the campaign was a cover for attempts to destabilize his government.
Covert Operations and Rising Tensions
Trump confirmed authorizing CIA operations targeting alleged drug cartels, while Venezuela’s Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino warned that any U.S. covert actions would fail. The Venezuelan military has launched coastal defense drills in response to U.S. naval movements.
Both nations are ramping up military activity and rhetoric, fueling fears of direct confrontation. As the standoff deepens, the Caribbean remains a flashpoint — and Maduro’s plea for peace may face its toughest test yet.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Moisture levels have rapidly increased over the area so another round of scattered storms are possible Friday afternoon. Then a powerful storm system will move in Friday night with potentially severe thunderstorms developing on Saturday,
Tell us more about the ABC13 Weather Watch for Saturday. What should we expect with Saturday’s storm system?
We predict an organized complex of thunderstorms will develop over West Texas late Friday and reach us sometime early Saturday morning before sunrise. The initial round of storms could feature damaging wind gusts and a quick 1-3″ of heavy rain that leads to street flooding. We also cannot rule out isolated tornadoes. There will likely be rain continuing behind the main line of storms that continues all the way into the afternoon. The Saturday afternoon storms will be scattered but contain an additional threat for isolated tornadoes. Right now your chance of getting rain is 90%. This Pacific weather system blows in some slightly drier air for Sunday, but there’s no major cool down with this one.
When will we get a stronger cold front to make it finally feel like fall?!
Our confidence is growing that a stronger cool front will arrive Tuesday of next week and last through Halloween into the first weekend of November. This one will feel more like a “season changer” as it ushers in much colder air than we’ve experienced all fall. At this time we are looking at lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s, which is more typical for the end of October and the first week of November. There is a chance lows could dip into the 40s on one or two mornings next week, with that most likely to occur on the morning of Halloween.
What’s the early outlook for trick-or-treat time on Halloween?!
It looks nearly ideal at this time with temperatures falling from the 70s into the 60s during the evening under a mostly clear sky. Let’s hope this treat of a forecast continues to hold!
What is happening in the tropics?
Tropical Storm Melissa continues to move slowly to the northwest through the Caribbean and most likely will bring impacts to Haiti and Jamaica in the next few days. We are also monitoring a developing Pacific disturbance near Mexico that could send moisture into Texas later this month. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.
Millions of low-income Americans could lose access to food assistance on Nov. 1, as the federal government shutdown forces states to halt benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the nation’s largest anti-hunger initiative.
At least 25 states — including California, Arkansas, Hawaii, Indiana, Mississippi and New Jersey — told POLITICO they have begun notifying SNAP recipients that November payments will not be issued due to the ongoing shutdown. Other states did not respond to requests for comment before publication.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service recently directed all states to pause the distribution of benefits until further notice, according to multiple state agencies.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, a Democrat, said during a press conference Wednesday that President Donald Trump is “the first president in U.S. history to cut off SNAP benefits to people in America.”
“The state funding can’t begin to match what the federal government provides,” Healey said. Her state plans to end benefits Nov. 1.
The shutdown, now in its fourth week, has left programs such as SNAP and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) caught in the crossfire of congressional spending negotiations. Some states are attempting to keep programs afloat using limited reserves and emergency funds from the Trump administration, but those resources are quickly running out.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins told NewsNation that the administration would need to find more than $8 billion to keep SNAP operating if the shutdown continues.
“We just can’t do it without the government being open,” Rollins said. “By Nov. 1, we are very hopeful this government reopens and we can begin moving that money out. But right now, half the states are shut down on SNAP.”
SNAP currently serves more than 42 million people nationwide, providing an average of $187.20 per month to help families pay for groceries. The suspension of benefits would come just weeks before Thanksgiving — a time when food banks and pantries are already struggling to meet higher seasonal demand.
Even if Congress reaches a funding agreement before the end of October, many states expect delays in processing November payments. The Kansas Department for Children and Families told POLITICO it would take at least three days to restart the program after the shutdown ends.
The government shutdown began Oct. 1 after Congress failed to pass a budget or a temporary funding measure for the new fiscal year. Without congressional action, federal agencies, including the USDA, remain closed or partially operational.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the lapse in food assistance could affect more than 40 million Americans — including about 16 million children, 8 million older adults, and 4 million people with disabilities.
Thirty-six states have issued public warnings about potential interruptions to November SNAP payments, according to data compiled by Newsweek.
The potential disruption adds to growing concern about food insecurity across the country, with advocates warning that millions of Americans could face hunger as the political stalemate continues.
Yvonne Guidry, the powerhouse entrepreneur, philanthropist, and creative behind SpoiledLatina, has built an empire of empowerment with nearly 60,000 Instagram followers and countless others across social media. Known for founding SpoiledLatina Day and the SpoiledLatina Summit, Guidry’s mission is to remind women—especially Latinas—that self-care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.
In an exclusive interview with Que Onda Magazine, Guidry opened up about her beginnings, the story behind her brand, and her journey to becoming one of Houston’s most inspiring Latina voices.
The Birth of “SpoiledLatina”
What began as a nickname on a video shoot became a brand that transformed Guidry’s life.
“I was called ‘SpoiledLatina’ on set one day,” she recalled with a smile. “I liked how it sounded, so I created an email and a blog by that name. It became my way of sharing my love for fashion, beauty, and entertainment.”
Some questioned the name early on, but Guidry embraced it as a declaration of self-worth.
“I had a little pushback at first,” she said. “People would say, ‘Why spoiled?’ But I wanted women to know it’s okay to treat yourself, to value yourself, to take time to rest and recharge.”
Family Roots and Houston Dreams
Born in Corpus Christi and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Guidry proudly carries her Mexican heritage.
“My parents came from Mexico for the American dream,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion. “I always remind myself—I don’t want their sacrifices to be in vain.”
Guidry first fell in love with Houston during a family road trip as a teenager. Years later, she made it her home.
“Houston is full of people doing great things,” she said. “Everyone here has a dream and a hustle.”
From Blog to Movement
Guidry launched her blog in 2008, sharing beauty tips and personal reflections. By 2015, her influence had grown so significantly that Houston Mayor Annise Parker and Council Member Ed Gonzalez proclaimed July 9 as SpoiledLatina Day.
That milestone inspired her next big leap—the creation of the SpoiledLatina Summit in 2016.
“My first sponsor was All Laundry Detergent—they sent me $5,000 and 75 bottles of detergent,” she laughed. “Everyone walked away with clean clothes and full hearts.”
Nearly a decade later, the SpoiledLatina Summit has become a must-attend event for Latinas across the country.
“I didn’t see myself represented in other conferences,” Guidry explained. “So I created one for us.”
Empowering Women Beyond the Home
Guidry speaks openly about challenging cultural expectations that often limit Latina women.
“In many Latino households, women are expected to stay home,” she said. “But I believe we can do both—raise a family and chase our dreams. God didn’t give us just one gift.”
Balancing motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship, she leads by example.
“Spoil yourself,” she advised. “Even if it’s locking yourself in the bathroom to read a few pages of a book. Practice gratitude, give yourself grace, and be kind.”
Building Community and Giving Back
Guidry also channels her influence into philanthropy. Through her nonprofit Jefita Atrevida (“Daring Little Boss”), she supports first-generation college students with scholarships, cap-and-gown donations, and community events.
“I know what it’s like to struggle,” she said tearfully. “Now I want to make it easier for students who just need that little push.”
Her annual Jefita Sneaker Gala, supported by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, and United Airlines, helps fund those initiatives.
“We wear sneakers with gowns,” she said with a laugh. “It’s stylish, fun, and for a great cause.”
Faith, Networking, and Representation
For Guidry, faith is central to everything she does.
“I may not go to church every Sunday, but I talk to God every day,” she said. “It’s not just about asking—it’s about thanking Him in advance.”
She also believes in the power of putting yourself out there. Her collaborations with global brands and celebrity encounters—from Colombian superstar Maluma to American rapper 50 Cent—often stem from networking moments she created herself.
“A closed mouth doesn’t get fed,” she said. “You have to go out, meet people, and advocate for yourself.”
A Message to Her Community
When asked what message she wants to leave with Que Onda readers, Guidry smiled.
“Life is short—spoil yourself,” she said. “Slow down, take care of you, then come back recharged and take over the world.”
As SpoiledLatina Day continues to inspire women across Houston and beyond, Guidry’s legacy shines as a reminder of faith, gratitude, and unapologetic joy.
“Gratitude is everything,” she added. “Even if it’s not happening right now, it will—just keep believing.”
The NFL’s decision to keep Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl LX halftime performer has stirred outrage among MAGA supporters and conservative commentators. Despite calls for the league to reconsider, Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the decision stands.
Goodell Defends the Move
Speaking at a press conference, Goodell emphasized that the NFL carefully selects its performers to reflect a global audience. “I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an artist where we didn’t have some blowback,” he said. “Bad Bunny is one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world.”
Political and Cultural Reactions
Bad Bunny—born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio—has faced criticism for his outspoken advocacy on Latino issues and his decision not to tour mainland U.S. cities due to concerns over immigration enforcement. Former President Donald Trump dismissed the choice, saying, “I never heard of him… it’s absolutely ridiculous.”
In response, conservative group Turning Point USA announced plans for its own “All-American Halftime Show,” set for the same day, February 8, 2026.
Celebrities Show Support
While critics accuse the NFL of ignoring its fan base, others have praised the move. Jennifer Lopez told CBS Mornings that Bad Bunny “transcends language,” and The View co-host Sunny Hostin called him “an artist activist” suited for this moment.
Bad Bunny will perform at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, for Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, marking one of the most talked-about halftime shows in recent NFL history.
For more on Bad Bunny as the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime show performer, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.
As inflation, tariffs, and government shutdown worries continue, the U.S. economy is showing clearer signs of a “K-shaped” split—where wealthier Americans maintain strong spending habits while lower-income consumers tighten their budgets.
Spending Gaps Widen
According to recent data, affluent households are still investing in high-end goods and travel, supported by stock market gains and rising home values. In contrast, working- and middle-class families face mounting pressure from higher grocery, gas, and housing costs. The Labor Department’s upcoming Consumer Price Index report—delayed by the shutdown—may offer new insight into these disparities.
Food and Beverage Trends
Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey said the company’s growth is being driven by premium drinks like Topo Chico and Fairlife protein shakes, while lower-income customers are turning to dollar stores for deals. McDonald’s and Chipotle have also noticed similar divides, with McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski describing the situation as a “two-tier economy.”
Cars and Airfare Reflect the Split
New vehicle prices hit record highs above $50,000, with defaults rising among borrowers with low credit scores. “Today’s auto market is being driven by wealthier households who have access to capital,” said Erin Keating of Cox Automotive. Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines reports booming demand for premium seats, which may soon surpass revenue from economy cabins.
Hospitality Sector Holds Mixed Outlook
Hilton CEO Christopher Nassetta acknowledged the economic bifurcation but predicted improvement next year. “I don’t think you’re going to continue to have this bifurcation,” he said, expecting middle- and lower-income segments to recover as inflation and interest rates cool.
Despite those hopes, Hilton’s most affordable brands have recently seen declining revenue, while luxury properties continue to thrive—underscoring a widening gap between the haves and have-nots in today’s economy.
A late-night fire in the Greenspoint area claimed the lives of two children and left their grandfather critically injured after he tried to rescue them, according to the Houston Fire Department.
Fire Broke Out Late Wednesday
Officials said the blaze erupted around 11 p.m. Wednesday at a townhome on Casa Grande Drive. Houston Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz described the tragedy as “a very sad day for the department.”
Family Members Caught Inside
At the time of the fire, the children, their mother, and their grandfather were inside the home. Both adults were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Muñoz said the grandfather made a desperate attempt to save his grandchildren but was unable to reach them in time.
Grandfather Suffers Severe Burns
“The grandfather made a valid effort to try and save the kids,” Muñoz said. “He wasn’t able to get all the way in.” Officials confirmed he sustained severe burns during the rescue attempt.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not released the children’s ages, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Chief Muñoz urged the community to keep the family in their prayers, calling it “a hard time for the city.”
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our mild fall weather continues Thursday, but a potent weather system arriving Saturday looks to bring the widespread rain we’ve needed to help turn this drought around. There is an ABC13 Weather Watch on Saturday for the possibility of street flooding and severe wind gusts when the storms blow in.
Temperatures Thursday morning will start off in the upper 50s and lower 60s, then moisture levels will quickly rise during the afternoon as the Gulf breeze returns to push highs into the upper 80s.
Tell us more about the ABC13 Weather Watch for Saturday. What should we expect with Saturday’s storm system?
We predict an organized complex of thunderstorms will develop over West Texas late Friday and reach us sometime Saturday morning, possibly before sunrise. The initial round of storms could feature damaging wind gusts and a quick 1-3″ of heavy rain that leads to street flooding. We also cannot rule out isolated tornadoes. There will likely be rain continuing behind the main line of storms that continues all the way into the afternoon. This will keep temperatures generally in the 70s all day long under an overcast sky. Right now your chance of getting rain is 90%. This Pacific weather system blows in some slightly drier air for Sunday, but there’s no major cool down with this one.
When will we get a stronger cold front to make it finally feel like fall?!
Our confidence is growing that a stronger cool front will arrive Tuesday night of next week and last through Halloween into the first weekend of November. This one will feel more like a “season changer” as it ushers in much colder air than we’ve experienced all fall. At this time we are looking at lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s, which is more typical for the end of October and the first week of November. There is a chance lows could dip into the 40s on one or two mornings next week, with that most likely to occur on the morning of Halloween.
What’s the early outlook for trick-or-treat time on Halloween?!
It looks nearly ideal at this time with temperatures falling from the 70s into the 60s during the evening under a mostly clear sky. Let’s hope this treat of a forecast continues to hold!
What is happening in the tropics?
Tropical Storm Melissa continues to move slowly to the northwest through the Caribbean and most likely will bring impacts to Haiti and Jamaica in the next few days. We are also monitoring a developing Pacific disturbance near Mexico that could send moisture into Texas later this month. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.
