53.8 F
Houston
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Home Blog Page 9

Pope Francis Friday update: Signs of recovery

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
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
-
0
¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1319

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

Edward Saenz
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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.”

1...8910...684Page 9 of 684

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.

Contact us: contact@queondamagazine.com

© Copyright - Que Onda Magazine 2024

X