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Cinergy to Build $40 Million Entertainment Complex in Corpus Christi

Cinergy Entertainment Group plans to invest $40 million in a new entertainment complex on Corpus Christi’s Southside, aiming to transform the area into a major destination for family-friendly attractions and nightlife.

The 90,000-square-foot facility will be built on a 10-acre site near Rodd Field Road and South Padre Island Drive. The Dallas-based company said the development will feature luxury bowling lanes, a multi-level sports bar, dine-in movie theaters, escape rooms, virtual reality attractions, arcade games and other interactive experiences.

The city approved a Chapter 380 economic development agreement that offers up to $4.15 million in tax rebates over 15 years to support the project. Officials estimate the complex will generate more than $2 million in city property taxes during the abatement period, and nearly $7 million for other local entities such as Nueces County and the school district.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with an opening projected in 2027 or early 2028. Cinergy estimates the project will create between 150 and 200 direct jobs, paying more than $2.8 million in total wages annually.

City leaders say the complex could serve as a catalyst for broader development in the surrounding area, which includes more than 50 acres of undeveloped land. The project also represents a major step in reshaping the city’s reputation as a destination for entertainment and leisure.

Cinergy, which operates 10 locations in Texas and neighboring states, said the Corpus Christi venue will be its largest and most advanced to date. The company has been recognized by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions as a “Top Family Entertainment Center of the World.”

“This is a game-changer for Corpus Christi,” said City Council members in a statement. “It’s exactly the kind of anchor project we’ve needed to revitalize this part of the city.”

Woman Claims She Matched with Bryan Kohberger Before Idaho Murders

A woman has come forward saying she matched with Bryan Kohberger on Tinder just weeks before he brutally murdered four University of Idaho students in November 2022, according to newly released police records.

Uncomfortable Conversations and a Knife Reference

The woman told Moscow Police she ended contact with Kohberger after disturbing conversations about murder made her uneasy. She reported that Kohberger, who introduced himself as a criminology student at Washington State University, asked what she thought was the worst way to die. When she replied “knife,” he responded, “like a Ka Bar?”—a reference to the type of combat knife authorities say he used in the killings.

A Tip That Came Too Late

She said the conversation reminded her of a friend’s murder and horror films like Rob Zombie’s “Halloween,” but Kohberger’s questions ultimately led her to cut off contact. It wasn’t until after his arrest that she recognized his face in the news and called the police tip line in March 2023.

Tip Couldn’t Be Verified

Investigators could not confirm the woman’s claims. She no longer had her Tinder account or user ID, and the dating app had no records based on the information she gave. Authorities said if new information emerges, they may pursue a warrant for additional records.

Kohberger Sentenced to Life

Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences for the fatal stabbings of Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, and Madison Mogen. The case remains one of the most chilling in recent memory.

Stay informed with the latest news this weekend at QueOndaMagazine.com.

Trump Administration Releases $6 Billion in Previously Frozen Education Funds

The Trump administration is releasing approximately $6 billion in federal education funding that was frozen earlier this month, a U.S. Department of Education spokesperson confirmed Friday.

Funds Restored for Key Education Programs

The funding includes critical support for programs such as English language acquisition, teacher development, and adult education. The pause had sparked significant backlash from educators, lawmakers, and advocacy groups.

Political Pressure and Lawsuits Mount

Several Republican senators recently urged the administration to reverse the freeze, while a coalition of school districts and officials—including North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson—sued the administration, warning the cuts would be a “shock to the system.”

Administration Cites Program Review

Education Secretary Linda McMahon previously stated the freeze was to assess whether some programs were misusing federal dollars to push a “radical leftwing agenda.” She indicated in an ABC News interview that funds could be released by year’s end but did not specify a timeline.

Timing Remains Unclear for States

While the release of funds has been confirmed, it remains uncertain how quickly states will receive the money—despite many school districts preparing to open for the new academic year in the coming days.

Earlier Unfreeze of After-School Funds

Last week, the Office of Management and Budget also released over $1 billion in after-school and summer learning funds. A senior official noted that new restrictions would apply to ensure program accountability moving forward.

Follow every update on this story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Rachel Zegler Exits ‘Evita’ Mid-Show Due to Illness

Rachel Zegler, 24, abruptly left the Thursday evening performance of Evita at the London Palladium due to illness.

Her understudy, Bella Brown, stepped in for the second act, opening with “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” Brown’s performance was met with a nearly five-minute standing ovation and 10 curtain calls.

Understudy Shines in the Spotlight

Taking to Instagram, Brown praised the importance of understudies in live theater, calling it “a proud day to be at Evita.” She also shared her excitement about performing alongside Zegler earlier in the day, who had completed the matinee performance before exiting the evening show.

Zegler’s West End Debut and Fan Reactions

Zegler is set to star as Eva Perón through September 6 in a production directed by Jamie Lloyd. The Snow White actress had previously called the role a lifelong dream, sharing memories of singing the show’s iconic songs with her father.

Some audience members have expressed frustration over a staging decision that places Zegler outside on a balcony during “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” forcing ticket holders to watch via livestream. While some deemed it a “rip off,” others praised the symbolism of Evita singing to the public from the streets.

Romance Offstage

Offstage, Zegler has been seen with dancer Nathan Louis-Fernand. The two were spotted kissing in Hyde Park and attending a Sabrina Carpenter concert together. Louis-Fernand, a former Magic Mike Live performer, shared flirty exchanges with Zegler on social media.

Controversies and Career Challenges

Zegler’s Evita run follows a rocky year. Her portrayal of Snow White in Disney’s live-action remake drew backlash after she criticized Trump voters and called the original film “dated.” Reports also alleged tension with co-star Gal Gadot over political disagreements. The film underperformed, with an estimated $115 million loss.

For more on Zegler’s and other celebrities, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Second Executive Resigns from Tech Firm After Coldplay ‘Kiss Cam’ Incident

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HR Head Steps Down Amid Viral Video Fallout

Kristin Cabot, chief people officer at data company Astronomer, has resigned days after a viral “kiss cam” moment at a Coldplay concert in Boston led to online speculation about her and then-CEO Andy Byron. The company confirmed her resignation on Thursday.

Concert Clip Sparks Controversy

The video, filmed at Coldplay’s July 16 show, shows a man and woman caught on the jumbotron embracing before quickly pulling away. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin playfully narrated their reaction, joking, “Either they’re having an affair, or they’re just very shy.” The footage rapidly spread on social media.

Leadership Changes Follow Investigation

Neither Cabot nor Byron have commented publicly. Byron resigned on July 19 following the company’s announcement of an internal investigation. Astronomer emphasized in a LinkedIn statement that its leadership must uphold standards of conduct and accountability, noting that Byron’s resignation had been accepted by the board.

Interim Leadership and Forward Focus

Cofounder Pete DeJoy is serving as interim CEO while the company searches for a permanent replacement. Astronomer, based in New York, reiterated its commitment to company values and stated it remains focused on supporting clients with data and AI solutions.

For the details on more viral moments like these, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Jennifer Lopez Celebrates 56th Birthday with Glam, Gratitude, and Skincare Secrets

Birthday Bash in Turkey

Jennifer Lopez marked her 56th birthday on July 24 with a lavish celebration in Antalya, Turkey, while on her Up All Night tour. She shared a series of photos from the day, including a fresh-faced selfie and scenes from a glamorous night out, where she wore a backless gown and danced beside a pink and white birthday cake.

Tour Highlights and New Music

The tour, which began on July 8, continues across Europe with stops in Spain, Italy, and Poland. To celebrate her birthday season, Lopez released a new single aptly titled “Birthday,” featuring lyrics that embrace self-love and celebration. The tour ends August 10, and later this year, she’ll launch a residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Skincare Routine and JLo Beauty

JLo’s posted this selfie without makeup on her Instagram.

Fans continue to marvel at Lopez’s youthful appearance, which she attributes to her skincare line, JLo Beauty. In a July 20 Instagram video, she responded to a fan’s skepticism: “No, I use it. I use it every day.” Lopez emphasized that her line is luxury skincare “clinically tested” and “like cashmere for your face.”

A Dream Suite and Emotional Performance

Lopez spent her birthday at the Regnum Carya resort in a dramatic stone-carved suite featuring spa amenities and lush views. During her July 23 concert, she was surprised when her team led the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday,” which moved her to tears.

Words of Wisdom for Fans

Speaking to the audience, Lopez shared heartfelt advice: “Do what you love with people that you love… The happiness that you have in your heart is directly tied to the people around you.” She ended the night by thanking her fans: “I love you so much.”

For more stories on our Latino stars like JLo, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

ABC13 Weather Watch for Friday as tropical downpours could flood streets

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our weather team has declared an ABC13 Weather Watch for Friday. Tropical moisture will spread into Southeast Texas as a disturbance remains over the Gulf, and that will lead to scattered tropical rain showers Friday that could flood streets where a quick 1-3″ of rain falls down. These storms could also produce frequent lightning and wind gusts over 40 mph.

When should we expect rain on Friday?

That depends on where you’re located. For the morning almost all of the rain showers and thunderstorms will remain over the coastal counties or offshore. Folks along the coast should prepare for a wet morning drive, and some beach plans may get rained out in the morning. The higher chances for rain will spread inland for the afternoon with widely scattered downpours impacting Houston and the surrounding suburbs. This could make for a wet and stormy drive home. The rain should calm down in most locations after the sun sets in the 8 p.m. hour.

How much rain could we get?

We are seeing a signal that locations along the coast will end up with 1-3″ with isolated spots possibly picking up over 6″ of rain. For locations inland like Houston, most will pick up an inch or less, but there could still be some 2-3″ pockets in the heaviest storms. Momentary street flooding will be the primary hazard with these torrential rain showers.

Will this rainy pattern continue into the weekend?

Yes, but rain chances will drop down to 40% by Sunday. Saturday will be another day with widespread heavy thunderstorms, and because they will start earlier in the day than Friday’s storms, many communities will register highs only in the 80s. Sunday will be a bit hotter with the high back into the low-to-mid 90s.

What’s happening in the tropics?

The main thing we are watching is the tropical moisture pushing toward us from the northern Gulf waters this week, but we may see a similar pattern develop again for next week. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Remains found in cooler identified as 35-year-old mom missing since 2024, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston police have identified a woman whose skeletal remains were found in a cooler along Hirsch Road near Buffalo Bayou this February as 35-year-old Dionne Williams.

The mother of two young children was first reported missing from the Greater Fifth Ward area in 2024.

“Now we’re seeking justice. Now we need justice,” Williams’ mother, Melissa Cashaw, said.

Cashaw told ABC13 she “knew something was wrong” when her daughter failed to show up to church on Mother’s Day 2024. She said she immediately began searching for her.

However, Houston police believe Williams may have been seen by others as late as August 2024. The department is asking anyone who knows anything about where Williams was or with whom from April to August 2024 to contact its homicide division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

“Release that information. We need closure,” Cashaw pleaded.

According to Houston police, it remains unclear how Williams died. Cashaw told ABC13 if her daughter was murdered, she wants the killer or killers to know that both God and her family “forgive them.”

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Chuck E. Cheese Mascot Arrested for Debit Card Theft in Florida

A Chuck E. Cheese employee in full mascot costume was arrested at a Tallahassee location after being accused of stealing a customer’s debit card, according to police.

Costumed Suspect Identified as 41-Year-Old Jermel Jones

The suspect, 41-year-old Jermel Jarreau Jones, was taken into custody on Wednesday while still dressed as the iconic mouse. Police said they approached him during work hours and he initially resisted arrest, forcing officers to physically restrain him.

“Chuck E, come with me Chuck E,” one officer reportedly said during the arrest.

Stolen Card Found in Mouse Costume

According to the arrest report, officers discovered the missing debit card in Jones’ pants pocket after removing the oversized Chuck E. Cheese head. The card had been reported stolen during a child’s birthday party on June 28. Police alleged that Jones used the card multiple times—at a smoke shop, a meat market, and a Whataburger.

Jones Denies Theft, Claims He Planned to Turn It In

Jones denied the accusations, telling police he had just found the card and was about to return it to the lost and found. He now faces felony charges including larceny of a debit card, identity theft, and fraudulent use of the card.

Customer Helped Crack the Case

The victim reportedly investigated the unauthorized charges herself. After tracking down surveillance footage from a meat market, she recognized Jones as a Chuck E. Cheese employee and alerted police. She later accompanied officers to the restaurant and agreed to press charges after identifying him.

Company Responds

In a statement to ABC News, a Chuck E. Cheese spokesperson said, “We have taken the appropriate action concerning the subject employee,” and directed further inquiries to the Tallahassee Police Department.

The arrest, which unfolded in front of children and families, has sparked widespread attention both online and in the local community. Stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Venus Williams Confirms Engagement to Andrea Preti

Venus Williams has plenty to celebrate.

On Tuesday, the tennis legend not only secured a victory against 23-year-old Peyton Stearns—making her the oldest woman to win a WTA singles match since 2004—but also confirmed her engagement to longtime partner Andrea Preti.

A Supportive Partner Courtside

During a post-match interview, Williams responded to being called an “engaged woman” with heartfelt acknowledgment.

“Yes, my fiancé is here,” she said, drawing applause from the crowd.

“He really encouraged me to keep playing… He’s never seen me play.” When the interviewer called Preti her “good luck charm,” Williams smiled and agreed.

Who Is Andrea Preti?

Preti, 37, is a Danish-born, Italian-raised model and actor. He studied acting at New York’s Susan Batson Studio and has appeared in several films and series, including “One More Day,” which he also wrote and directed, and the Italian drama “Un Professore.” Most recently, he starred in Temptation (2023).

A Low-Key Romance

The couple has kept their relationship mostly private. First spotted together in Italy in July 2024, they sparked engagement rumors earlier this year when Williams was seen wearing a ring at a training session in Rome. Their only major public appearance came during Milan Fashion Week at the Dsquared2 Fall/Winter 2025 show.

Preti’s Past Relationship

Before Williams, Preti dated Italian tennis player Susanna Giovanardi. The two attended the “Challengers” premiere together in April 2024.

Now, with a new milestone in her personal life and her continued achievements on the court, Venus Williams enters this next chapter with love, resilience, and renewed energy.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.