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Elana Meyers Taylor Wins First Olympic Gold at Age 41

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American bobsled star Elana Meyers Taylor captured her long-awaited first Olympic gold medal Monday, winning the women’s monobob event at the Milan Cortina Winter Games and becoming the oldest American woman to win gold at a Winter Olympics.

The 41-year-old rallied in the fourth and final heat to finish with a combined time of 3:57.93, dropping to her knees in tears when the result became official.

Historic Podium Finish

Germany’s Laura Nolte took silver, while American teammate Kaillie Humphries earned bronze with a time of 3:58.05 to secure her fifth Olympic medal.

Meyers Taylor had previously won five Olympic medals — three silver and two bronze — and was already the most decorated Black athlete in Winter Olympics history. Her sixth medal ties U.S. speedskating legend Bonnie Blair for the most Winter Olympic medals by an American woman.

A Career-Defining Comeback

Entering the final run, Nolte held a narrow lead, but Meyers Taylor delivered the fastest closing performance to secure gold. The victory adds to a career that includes world titles, multiple Olympic podiums, and two comebacks after becoming a mother.

For Meyers Taylor, the achievement marked the final milestone in an already historic career — and her first time hearing the U.S. national anthem played in her honor at the Winter Games.

For more on the Winter Olympics, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Pipeline expansion accelerates in Montgomery County as energy companies build major natural gas corridors

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A surge of new oil and gas pipeline construction is reshaping parts of Montgomery County as energy companies expand infrastructure to meet growing demand along the Gulf Coast.

Multiple large-scale natural gas and natural gas liquids projects are underway or in advanced planning stages, drawing attention from local officials and residents concerned about safety, environmental impacts and proximity to neighborhoods.

Texas has roughly 483,000 miles of pipelines crisscrossing the state, according to industry data, and Montgomery County sits along key corridors linking the Permian Basin and other production regions to refineries and export terminals on the coast.

Major projects underway

Among the most prominent developments is the Blackfin pipeline, led by WhiteWater Midstream. The 193-mile natural gas pipeline is designed to transport up to 3.5 billion cubic feet of gas per day. Construction began in late 2024, with the line running through several Southeast Texas counties, including Montgomery.

The project drew scrutiny after plans for a compressor station near Conroe prompted community opposition. Residents raised concerns about noise levels, emissions and the facility’s distance from homes and businesses. Legal challenges temporarily halted work at the proposed site before relocation plans were pursued.

Another large proposal, the Mustang Express pipeline, is being developed by ARM Energy Holdings LLC. The 240-mile intrastate line would move up to 2.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day from Colorado and Waller counties toward liquefied natural gas facilities in Port Arthur. Construction is expected to begin later this decade, pending permitting and surveys.

The Bahia NGL pipeline, operated by Enterprise Products Partners with a stake held by ExxonMobil, became operational in December 2025. The 550-mile system transports natural gas liquids such as ethane and propane from West Texas to Gulf Coast processing hubs. Additional capacity expansions are planned through 2027.

Meanwhile, Kinder Morgan is constructing the Trident intrastate pipeline, a 216-mile natural gas line expected to carry about 2 billion cubic feet per day when completed. The project is slated to enter service in 2027.

Oversight and local response

Oil and gas pipelines in Texas are regulated by the Texas Railroad Commission, which oversees permitting and safety standards. Counties do not have direct authority over routing decisions, though local officials say they monitor projects closely.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough has said the county supports responsible energy development but remains cautious about facilities near densely populated areas. He has voiced opposition to placing compressor stations close to residential neighborhoods, citing safety and quality-of-life concerns.

Industry representatives maintain that pipelines are one of the safest and most efficient methods of transporting energy products, reducing the need for tanker trucks on highways and lowering traffic risks.

As Montgomery County continues to grow rapidly, the intersection of residential development and energy infrastructure is likely to remain a focal point of debate. For now, construction crews continue laying pipe beneath fields and roadways, expanding the underground network that fuels much of the state’s economy.

Lionel Messi Effect Fuels Inter Miami Revenue Surge Nearly 300% Since MLS Arrival

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The arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi has dramatically transformed the financial and competitive landscape of Inter Miami CF, with club revenue rising nearly 300% since he joined Major League Soccer in 2023.

Beyond his on-field success, Messi’s presence elevated Inter Miami into one of the league’s most valuable and recognizable franchises in just a few seasons, bringing unprecedented global attention to North American soccer.

Record Valuation and Explosive Revenue Growth

Following the club’s 2025 MLS Cup championship, Inter Miami reached a reported valuation of $1.45 billion — the highest ever for an MLS franchise. Financial performance has surged alongside that milestone. The club generated approximately $200 million in revenue during the 2025 season, compared with $56 million in 2022, the last full year before Messi’s arrival.

The dramatic increase reflects booming ticket sales, sponsorship deals, merchandise demand, and international visibility tied to the Argentine icon’s global brand.

New Stadium and Contract Extension Signal Long-Term Growth

Inter Miami’s financial momentum is expected to continue, driven by two major developments: the planned opening of Miami Freedom Park in April and Messi’s contract extension through December 2028. Both moves provide stability and long-term commercial opportunities for the franchise.

Club leadership — led by co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas — has capitalized on the momentum with aggressive investments to strengthen the roster and maintain competitive success.

Heavy Spending to Build a Championship-Caliber Squad

The club spent nearly $38 million in transfer fees during 2026, one of the largest single-season investments in MLS history. Key moves included triggering a $15 million purchase clause for Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, making him among the most expensive signings in league history.

Additional acquisitions included Tadeo Allende, Rocco Ríos Novo, David Ayala, and Mexican international Germán Berterame, whose $15 million transfer matched De Paul among the club’s biggest purchases.

Inter Miami also strengthened depth through free transfers, including goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair and defender Facundo Mura.

Ambitions Expand Beyond MLS

With rising revenues and an upgraded roster, Inter Miami is targeting success not only domestically but also in international competitions such as the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Ownership believes continued investment will translate into trophies while reinforcing the club’s growing global brand.

The “Messi effect” has already reshaped the franchise financially and competitively — and the club’s rapid ascent shows little sign of slowing.

For more sports news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

US Oil Companies Expected to Expand Operations in Venezuela, Energy Secretary Says

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Additional American energy firms could begin operating in Venezuela within the next few months, according to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, signaling a major shift in economic ties following recent political changes in the South American nation.

Currently, Chevron remains the only U.S. oil company with active operations in Venezuela, but that could soon change after new federal authorizations cleared the way for more companies to enter the market.

New Licenses Open the Door for Major Energy Firms

The U.S. Treasury Department recently issued licenses allowing several multinational companies — including BP, Shell, Eni, and Repsol — to negotiate and operate with Venezuela’s state oil company, PDVSA.

Wright said increased production is already underway, with Chevron expanding output this month and next. He projected a “meaningful rise” in Venezuelan oil production over the next year, with much of the supply expected to flow to U.S. refineries, particularly in Florida.

Political Transition Driving Economic Cooperation

The developments follow the removal of longtime Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro earlier this year during a U.S.-backed operation. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has since taken office and met with Wright in Caracas to discuss energy cooperation and economic recovery.

According to Wright, U.S. oversight of oil revenue distribution gives Venezuelan leadership strong incentives to collaborate.

President Donald Trump has stated his administration intends to partner with private companies and Venezuelan authorities to expand oil exports while maintaining U.S. control over revenue flows.

Possible Elections by 2027

While some observers speculated elections could occur sooner, Wright said organizing credible voter rolls and election systems will take time. However, he indicated that a national election before the end of 2027 is “a real possibility.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also defended U.S. involvement in Venezuela during recent congressional testimony, emphasizing plans to restore democratic governance.

Potential Impact on U.S. Gas Prices

Wright argued that increased Venezuelan oil production could benefit American consumers by lowering energy costs across multiple sectors, including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt.

“Americans are going to be winners out of this, as well as the Venezuelans,” he said.

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

Robert Duvall, Oscar-Winning Star of The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, Dies at 95

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Legendary actor Robert Duvall, known for iconic roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, has died at age 95. He passed away peacefully at his home in Virginia on Feb. 15, 2026, according to his family and representatives.

Duvall won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies and earned seven Oscar nominations over a career spanning more than seven decades and over 90 films.

He first gained attention playing Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird and became widely recognized as Tom Hagen in The Godfather films alongside Marlon Brando. His portrayal of Lt. Col. Kilgore in Apocalypse Now delivered one of cinema’s most famous lines: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.”

Duvall also earned acclaim for television roles, including the Western miniseries Lonesome Dove, which he often called his favorite project.

He is survived by his wife, Luciana Pedraza. In keeping with his wishes, no formal service will be held, with the family encouraging fans to honor his memory by watching a great film or spending time with loved ones.

For more on Duvall’s farewell, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

7 teenage victims in different shootings across the city of Houston in the last week

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By Sarah Al-Shaikh, ABC13 Houston.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Seven teenagers were all victims in different shootings across the city of Houston in the last week, according to reports.

The most recent shooting happened over the weekend, according to police. They said a 16-year-old girl was pronounced dead after getting caught in gunfire at a house party in Houston’s southside.

The Houston Police Department said it happened at a house on Dagg Road on Saturday. Officials said a party of about 300 people ended with the young girl being struck by gunfire and ultimately dying from her injuries.

In the last week, ABC13 reported on seven shootings, with some of them ending fatally.

The victims’ ages ranged from 19 to 15 years old, according to reports.

One teenager was shot and killed at a car meet-up with a friend, according to police.

“One individual in his late teens was struck and pronounced deceased here on the scene,” HPD Lt. JP Horelica said.

A 16-year-old teenager was also shot last week while selling vape pens at the apartment complex where he lives after arranging an online transaction on social media, according to authorities.

“It was definitely very traumatic,” neighbor Isis Nery said.

Nery said she heard the shots ringing out.

“Bullets, like you said, they don’t have any name. They can go through walls. They can go through windows,” Nery said.

Amongst young people, firearm offenses increased by 45% from 2020 to 2025, according to data from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

The department said it also saw more higher-risk youth with increasing treatment needs. It specifically cited aggression and mental health treatment at all-time agency highs.

“I have a 16-year-old brother as well,” Nery said. “It’s just the fact of just communicating with them and showing them what consequences can you know, what your actions and the consequences are, you know?”

For more news updates, follow Sarah Al-Shaikh on Facebook and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston. For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.

FCC Clears Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show After Complaints

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The halftime performance by Bad Bunny at Super Bowl LX sparked online debate and viewer complaints, with some criticizing lyrics they claimed were inappropriate—despite many being in Spanish.

No Decency Violations Found

An initial review by the Federal Communications Commission concluded the show did not violate broadcast decency rules. According to Charles Gasparino of the New York Post, the songs had been edited to remove explicit references, similar to past halftime performances.

Edits like these were also made during Kendrick Lamar’s set at Super Bowl LIX, making the FCC decision unsurprising. Officials said the matter is closed unless new evidence emerges.

Controversy Comparatively Minor

The performance drew massive audiences—over 128 million live viewers, with billions more views across platforms like YouTube—but the backlash has been relatively small compared to past halftime controversies, including the infamous wardrobe malfunction incident more than two decades ago.

Overall, regulators determined the show met broadcast standards, ending the dispute quickly.

For more on the “Benito Bowl,” stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston Mother Pleads for Husband’s Return After Deportation Amid Child’s Medical Crisis

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A mother in Houston is asking for public help after her husband was deported to Honduras while their young son battles a rare, life-threatening condition.

Father Detained Despite Pending Immigration Case

Gabriela Murillo says her husband, Jorge Murillo, was pulled over in Mississippi on Oct. 8 while driving for work. According to the family’s attorney, he had an open immigration case and was legally allowed to remain in the United States during the process.

Despite this, he was detained and transferred to a facility in Louisiana, where he remained for months before being deported on January 10.

Gabriela said she learned the news during a video call with him after he had already arrived in Honduras.

5-Year-Old Son Faces Rare Genetic Disorder

The couple’s son, James, 5, is autistic and suffers from multiple medical conditions. Doctors recently diagnosed him with a rare genetic disorder that causes aortic dilation, affecting his heart and lungs. The family says his life expectancy could be between five and ten years.

Gabriela described the emotional toll of the situation, saying she is trying to cherish every moment with her son while coping with her husband’s absence.

Attorney Claims Deportation Was Legally Wrong

The family’s lawyer argues the deportation should not have happened because Jorge’s immigration appeal was still pending.

Jorge, who says he has no criminal record, fears being separated during a critical time in his son’s health journey. He also stated he cannot relocate his son to Honduras due to limited medical resources and the severity of his condition.

Mother Caring for Five Children Alone

Gabriela is now caring for five children under the age of 8 while seeking assistance from local, state, and federal officials to bring her husband back. She says she has not received responses so far.

According to reporting from KHOU-TV, immigration authorities have also not publicly commented on the case despite multiple inquiries.

For now, the family remains focused on their son’s health and hoping for a resolution that reunites them.

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

Father shot by son while working on bike in Kingwood-area home garage, Houston police say

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HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — A father was shot by his son while working on his bike in his home garage overnight, Houston police said.

According to the Houston Police Department, the shooting happened around 2 a.m. on Sunday in the 2700 block of Tinechester Drive near the Kingwood area.

The victim told officers he was working on his bike in his garage shed when he heard a loud bang. According to authorities, the victim felt pain in his jaw and neck area. The man then turned around and saw his son, standing over the victim with a gun in his hand, police said.

Police said the son then fled the scene. Officers formed a perimeter and started a search for the suspect, authorities said. Officers from the Cleveland Police Department later told HPD that they had the suspect in custody, officials said.

HPD did not immediately release information on a possible motive for the shooting or the age of the son.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston. For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.