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Stop by ABC13’s Earth Day E-Cycle Drive for free electronic recycling and help set a record

ABC13 Houston
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Stop by ABC13’s Earth Day E-Cycle Drive for free electronic recycling and help set a record

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — What’s a great way to celebrate Earth Month, offload electronics you no longer use, and help a local business ring in its 30th anniversary?

How about joining ABC13 and CompuCycle for the 19th annual ABC13 Earth Day E-Cycle Drive, an event focused on helping our communities safely recycle electronics.

From 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, you can stop by CompuCycle at 8019 Kempwood Dr., Houston, TX 77055 to drop off old or unwanted electronics.

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Take a look through some of the action (and big equipment donations!) during 2025’s drive at CompuCycle.

CompuCycle, who is celebrating 30 years in business and sponsoring this event, will take care of the rest, and you can leave knowing you’ve played a part in reducing harmful e-waste.

You don’t even have to get out of your car as the CompuCycle team will assist once you arrive.

Each year, the amount of electronic waste dropped off for recycling has grown with the drive hitting 100,000 pounds or more multiple times over the years.

In fact, ABC13’s Earth Day E-Cycle Drive holds the Guinness World Record for the largest single day e-waste collection, set in 2014 when we collected 138,174 lbs. of electronics.

But records were meant to be broken!

We want to top that this year. Will you help us?

Here’s what else to know before the big day.

How much is it?

Free! You can drop off and all will be handled at no cost to you. No appointment necessary.

Is there anything I should prepare?

Yes! Before you drop off electronics, back up any important data and perform a factory reset on devices that store personal information. Remove any accessories like cables and chargers.

What can I drop off?

Old computers and phones are just the tip of the iceberg. CompuCycle accepts various items from fax machines and Wi-Fi extenders to e-readers, MP3 players, streaming devices, and charging cables.

Read on to see the full list.

Computers & Mobile Devices
Desktops
Laptops
Tablets
All-In-One Computers
Cellphones
Smartphones
Pagers

Home Office Equipment
Routers
Modems
Wi-Fi Extenders
Network Switches
Printers
Fax Machines
Scanners

Personal Electronics
E-Readers
MP3 Players
Smartwatches
GPS Devices
Fitness Trackers
Portable DVD Players
Portable Hard Drives & USB Flash Drives

Entertainment & Gaming
TVs (LCD, LED, Plasma)
DVD/Blu-ray Players
Streaming Devices (Roku, AppleTV, etc.)
Gaming Consoles
Handheld Game Systems

Audio & Video Equipment
Speakers
Sound Systems
Home Theater Systems
Digital Cameras
Camcorders

Power Systems
HDMI Cables
Ethernet Cables
Composite Cables (red, white, & yellow)
All Charging Cables
Power Cords & Adapters

What items are not accepted?

While CompuCycle accepts a lot, there are some items they can’t take on for the safety of their employees and the environment.

In general, the company can’t accept items that pose a fire, explosion, or pollution risk.

Specifically, the below would be a no-go:

Household appliances
Fans
Refrigerators
Stoves
Washer/Dryers
Microwaves
Vacuum Cleaners

Hazardous Materials
Paint
Light Bulbs
Oil Waste
Mercury Devices
Medical/Biohazard Waste

Specialized Equipment
Smoke Alarms
Solar Panels
Dehumidifiers
Air Conditioners

If you have questions, reach out to CompuCycle.

Is there a limit to what I can drop off?

You can bring up to five items.

So whether you have one device or several, you can drop them off during the drive.

What happens to my electronics after I drop them off?

Once collected, CompuCycle sorts your old electronics, hard drives are wiped clean for your safety, and all materials are then processed for use in new consumer products.

Goods are also recycled in compliance with their e-Stewards certification, according to CompuCycle’s website, adding that they will guarantee secure data destruction on all devices with storage capabilities to protect your personal information.

Why does safely recycling electronics matter?

Diverting hundreds of thousands of pounds of e-waste from Houston landfills promotes a healthier city, preventing the release of toxins in our air, soil and water.

Typically, the impact and response during the drive is great.

In 2024, ABC13 viewers recycled the equivalent of 382 refrigerators worth of electronic waste.

  • 240.92 lbs. of toxic metals diverted
  • Reduction of 45.37 metric tons of greenhouse gas
  • Saved 383.72 gallons of oil
  • Like removing nearly 10 cars from the road
  • 293.60 cubic yards of landfill space saved
  • 3,736,637.20 hours of electricity saved

What if I can’t make it?

We really want to see you on Friday, April 24, but we know things happen.

CompuCycle accepts drop-offs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Business deliveries can be scheduled by calling (713) 869-6700.

In addition, both residential and corporate drop-offs are welcome during the drive.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

In Defense of Opossums: Houston’s Most Misunderstood Neighbor

Indira Zaldivar
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In Defense of Opossums: Houston’s Most Misunderstood Neighbor

In neighborhoods across Houston, a quiet, often unwelcome visitor moves through the night. The Opossum is frequently labeled “filthy,” “scary,” or a pest. But much of what people believe about this animal is simply not true.

Not Dangerous—Just Misunderstood

Opossums are non-aggressive and solitary. When threatened, they’re far more likely to freeze or “play dead” than attack. Despite common fears, they are extremely unlikely to carry rabies due to their naturally low body temperature, which makes it difficult for the virus to survive.

Their quiet, slow movements and unusual appearance may startle people, but they are not a threat to humans, pets, or neighborhoods.

Nature’s Cleanup Crew—and Tick Control

Far from being a nuisance, opossums play an important role in Houston’s ecosystem. They are natural scavengers, feeding on:

  • Roadkill and animal remains
  • Insects and cockroaches
  • Rodents and small pests

They also groom themselves constantly, consuming large numbers of ticks in the process. This helps reduce tick populations in the areas they inhabit. Fewer ticks can mean a lower risk of tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease, for both people and pets.

In that sense, opossums act as an unexpected layer of protection in our neighborhoods.

Why You’re Seeing Them More Often

As Houston continues to grow, wildlife habitats shrink. Opossums adapt by moving into residential areas in search of food and shelter. Seeing one in your yard at night is not unusual—it’s often just passing through.

They do not dig aggressively like some animals, nor do they typically cause structural damage. Most encounters are brief and harmless.

What To Do If You See One

If you come across an opossum:

  • Keep your distance and give it space
  • Do not attempt to handle it unless it is clearly injured
  • Secure trash and pet food to avoid attracting wildlife

If the animal appears hurt, contact Houston SPCA, which operates a wildlife ambulance and rehabilitation center serving the region.

Changing the Narrative

Opossums have lived in North America for millions of years, quietly contributing to the health of ecosystems long before Houston existed. Yet today, they are often met with fear instead of understanding.

Reframing how we see these animals starts with simple awareness: they are not invaders, but neighbors adapting to a changing environment. In a city like Houston, coexistence isn’t optional—it’s part of living here.

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

Fleet Week Houston 2026: What to Know Before You Go

Indira Zaldivar
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Fleet Week Houston 2026: What to Know Before You Go

Fleet Week Houston has officially arrived, bringing active-duty U.S. Navy ships, sailors, and a full week of public events to Houston. Running April 15–22, this first-ever celebration offers rare access to military vessels and community festivities across the region.

Ship Tours: Free but First-Come

Visitors can tour Navy ships docked at the Port of Houston with no reservations required. Entry operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is strongly recommended.

ID Requirements:

  • Adults (18+) must show a valid government-issued photo ID
  • Non-U.S. citizens must present a passport and complete additional screening
  • Children can enter with an adult

Important Visitor Rules

Ship tours have strict safety guidelines:

  • Minimum age: 5 years old
  • Mobility: Must walk unassisted and climb steep ladders
  • No strollers or large bags
  • No pets, drones, or political items
  • No restrooms onboard (available at docks)

Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing—expect lots of walking, heat, and tight spaces.

Key Events Highlights

Fleet Week features events citywide, including:

  • Parade of Ships (April 15) – Seawolf Park
  • Fleet Week on the Green (April 16) – Discovery Green
  • Festival at Saint Arnold Brewing Company (April 17)
  • Aviation Exhibit (April 18–19) – Ellington Airport
  • Fleet Week Expo (April 18–19) – POST Houston
  • Street Festival & Drone Show (April 20) – Seabrook

For the full list, visit Houston Fleet Week.

Why It Matters

Fleet Week offers a rare chance to connect with service members, explore naval operations, and celebrate military contributions up close. With free tours and family-friendly events, it’s one of Houston’s biggest spring attractions.

Plan ahead, dress for the conditions, and arrive early—this is a can’t-miss debut event for the city.

For the Houston events you need to know about, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Woman shot by her alleged stalker, who was then run over by her boyfriend in N. Harris County: HCSO

ABC13 Houston
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Woman shot by her alleged stalker, who was then run over by her boyfriend in N. Harris County: HCSO

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — The Harris County Sheriff’s Office says an alleged stalker will face charges after he and his victim were both hospitalized in north Harris County on Tuesday night.

The agency told ABC13 it was after 9 p.m. when a woman returning home in the 2100 block of Hartwick Road noticed someone in her yard.

“She was coming home from church,” Lt. Roosevelt Berry, Jr. said.

Authorities said the suspect, now identified as Emanuel Marin, was in her yard and had allegedly been stalking the victim for a few days.

Investigators said the woman was then shot in the shoulder when Marin fired into her vehicle. Marin then reportedly fired at the victim’s boyfriend’s car, hitting it. Fearing for his life, the boyfried drove his car into Marin, injuring him.

“(Her boyfriend) was following her home from church in his own vehicle,” Berry said. “He witnessed the shooting.”

According to HCSO, Marin had previously attended church with the victim and her boyfriend until he was bananed from returning for allegedly making threats to staff members.

Both the woman and her alleged stalker were hospitalized, but are expected to survive, according to the lieutenant.

HCSO said Marin is 24 years old and will be charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and burglary of a habitation. Deputies said he had a broken leg and would be transferred to the HCSO Detentions Medical unit.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Rideshare driver accused of sending explicit images to underage passenger, authorities say

ABC13 Houston
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Rideshare driver accused of sending explicit images to underage passenger, authorities say

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — Montgomery County law enforcement is urging parents to use caution when allowing minors to use rideshare programs after a driver was arrested for sending explicit images to a minor, according to court documents.

On Wednesday, the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office shared the arrest of Josiah Carroll, who is charged with online solicitation of a minor.

Authorities said that in April 2026, they received a complaint alleging that Carroll, a rideshare driver, had sent sexually explicit images to an underage minor.

An investigation revealed that Carroll had exchanged personal contact information with the minor during the ride, which was then used to send the explicit material, according to Pct. 1.

Based on the evidence, authorities were able to obtain an arrest warrant for Carroll. He was taken into custody and charged with a second-degree felony.

As the investigation went on, authorities said they identified a possible second victim, and now are urging anyone who may have had contact with Carroll through a rideshare service, social media, or any other form to come forward

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Montgomery County District Attorney’s ICAC Division at 936-539-7800.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Security guard breaks up fight, allegedly shoots, injures woman who jumped in, HPD says

ABC13 Houston
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Security guard breaks up fight, allegedly shoots, injures woman who jumped in, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Officials are determining whether to file charges against a security guard who fired shots and injured a woman involved in a parking lot fight in southeast Houston.

The shooting happened on Martin Luther King Boulevard near Griggs Road on Tuesday evening.

The Houston Police Department said that three women arrived at the empty parking lot, two in a maroon car and another in a white car, got out, and began fighting. Officials said during this time, the security guard was parked and sitting in his vehicle before approaching the women.

At one point, two of the women had the other woman on the ground, kicking and hitting her, before the guard came to break up the fight. Officials said that is when a fourth woman, who HPD believed was homeless, approached and kicked the woman on the ground in the head.

The guard eventually pushes back against the fourth woman and clears the fight before the initial three women leave the area, leaving just the fourth woman and the security guard at the scene, HPD says.

Lt. Wilikins with HPD said the woman then reportedly became frustrated and tried to hit the guard, causing him to slip and fall. HPD said that is when the guard recovered, grabbed the woman, told her to leave, and then walked away.

As the guard walked away, the woman threatened him and began to go through her bag, saying, “I’ve got something for you,” and pulled an object out, leading the guard to open fire, hitting her in the hand and in the stomach, HPD said.

Officials said the guard did call 911. The woman, who police said is in her 40s, was taken to the hospital and is expected to be OK.

There was no word from officials on what led up to the initial altercation or the relationship among the four women.

HPD said the guard is cooperating with police, and the case will be reviewed by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Houston stays warm and humid until stormy cool front arrives Saturday

ABC13 Houston
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Houston stays warm and humid until stormy cool front arrives Saturday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our warm weather is going nowhere as a stormy cool front blows in this weekend and brings a higher rain chance and a modest cool down.

It’s another warm, humid day with highs expected to top out around 85 degrees. There’s enough moisture for a brief shower, but your chance of getting measurable rain is only 10%.

Overnight we expect another mild one with lows around 70 due to the high humidity and steady Gulf breeze.

What’s the outlook for this weekend’s rain chances?

It looks like the cool front will reach Houston Saturday afternoon or evening. Isolated showers are possible ahead of the front, then a broken line of showers and thunderstorms are expected when the front reaches your neighborhood. We currently have rain chances at 40%, but those chances will go up if our confidence increases in the timing of the front. A few showers could linger into Sunday morning, so we are keeping a 20% chance of rain in the forecast for now.

How cool will it get behind this front?

Temperatures should dip into below-average territory behind the front. We expect a couple of days with highs in the 70s and a few mornings with lows in the 50s. The average high this time of year is around 80, and the average low is around 60.

https://abc13.com/post/houston-weather-forecast-today-near-me-texas-rain-storm-predictions/39346/

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

NRA convention in Houston draws scrutiny amid internal turmoil, political tension

Edward Saenz
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NRA convention in Houston draws scrutiny amid internal turmoil, political tension

The National Rifle Association’s annual convention in Houston is unfolding under a cloud of controversy, as the gun rights organization grapples with leadership upheaval, declining membership and ongoing political backlash.

The convention, scheduled for April 16–19 at the George R. Brown Convention Center, marks the NRA’s return to Houston for the first time since 2022. This year’s gathering comes as the organization continues to face questions about its financial stability and long-term influence in American politics.

Former longtime NRA leader Wayne LaPierre resigned in 2024 following allegations of financial misconduct, including the misuse of millions of dollars on luxury travel and personal expenses. The fallout contributed to a steep decline in membership revenue and political spending in recent years, according to organizational disclosures and reporting.

NRA officials have framed the Houston convention as a rebuilding moment, with leadership seeking to restore stability and member confidence. However, internal divisions remain over proposed reforms, including changes to election procedures and governance rules aimed at increasing transparency.

The convention is also expected to draw political attention. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is scheduled to speak, while former President Donald Trump is not expected to attend, continuing a trend of recent absences from NRA events by the Republican leader.

Gun control advocates are expected to protest outside the convention, as has been common at previous NRA gatherings. The organization’s 2022 return to Houston drew heightened scrutiny in the aftermath of the Uvalde school shooting, an event that continues to shape public debate over gun policy in Texas and across the country.

Despite its historical influence in national politics, the NRA’s recent challenges have raised questions about its future role. Declining revenues and internal restructuring efforts have fueled debate over whether the organization can regain its former political strength.

The Houston convention is expected to serve as a key test of that effort, bringing together members, lawmakers and activists at a time of continued national division over gun policy.

Texas opens London office to lure global business, boost ‘Y’all Street’ ambitions

Edward Saenz
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Texas opens London office to lure global business, boost ‘Y’all Street’ ambitions

Texas is expanding its global economic reach with the opening of a new office in London aimed at attracting international companies, investment and jobs to the state.

State officials say the London outpost will serve as a hub to recruit European businesses — particularly in finance and manufacturing — looking to establish or expand operations in the United States. The effort is part of a broader push to position Texas as a leading destination for global commerce.

The office will be operated by Vianovo, an Austin-based advisory firm, and led by James Taylor. A delegation of Texas officials and business leaders is expected to travel to the United Kingdom for the official launch.

Texas leaders are pitching the state’s business-friendly environment, including no state corporate or personal income tax, streamlined regulations and access to incentive programs. The state is also highlighting its specialized business courts and relatively low cost of doing business compared to coastal U.S. markets and parts of Europe.

The move comes as Texas intensifies efforts to grow its financial sector, particularly in the Dallas area, which officials have promoted as an emerging rival to Wall Street — a vision sometimes referred to as “Y’all Street.” Central to that strategy is the planned Texas Stock Exchange, which aims to attract listings and capital from companies seeking alternatives to traditional U.S. exchanges.

Officials say London was a natural choice for the new office due to its status as a global financial center and its longstanding economic ties with Texas. Trade between Texas and the United Kingdom reached billions of dollars in recent years, and U.K.-based companies have invested heavily in the state, supporting thousands of jobs.

The timing also reflects shifting dynamics in global finance. London markets have faced increasing competition in recent years, with some companies opting to list elsewhere or go private. Texas officials see an opportunity to draw those firms toward U.S. markets — and specifically to Texas.

The London office adds to Texas’ growing network of international economic development outposts, which includes locations in Mexico and Asia. State leaders say the expansion underscores a more aggressive approach to recruiting business from abroad.

By establishing a permanent presence in Europe, Texas is seeking not only to sustain its rapid economic growth but also to elevate its role in global finance and trade.

“This is about taking Texas to the world,” officials said, framing the initiative as a long-term investment in the state’s economic future.

IRS Tax Deadline 2026: Last-Minute Filing and Extensions

Edward Saenz
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IRS Tax Deadline 2026: Last-Minute Filing and Extensions

With the April 15 tax deadline here, millions of Americans are rushing to file their returns—or request more time through an extension with the Internal Revenue Service.

How to File a Tax Extension

If you’re not ready to file, you can request an automatic extension using Form 4868, which gives you until October 15 to submit your return.

The IRS offers several easy, free options:

Once submitted by April 15, the extension is automatically approved—no explanation required.

Important: You Still Have to Pay

An extension only delays filing your return, not paying taxes owed.

If you owe money and don’t pay by April 15, you could face penalties and interest, even if your extension is granted.

Does Filing an Extension Cost Money?

Filing directly through the IRS is completely free. However, some private tax services may charge small fees to submit the form.

There’s no penalty for filing an extension on time. But penalties can apply if:

  • You miss the extension deadline
  • You fail to pay taxes owed by April 15

Key 2026 Tax Dates

  • Tax Day: April 15
  • Extension Deadline: April 15
  • Extended Filing Deadline: October 15

Some groups, including Americans living abroad and certain military members, may qualify for additional time.

If you’re running out of time, filing an extension with the Internal Revenue Service is quick, free, and helps you avoid costly late-filing penalties—but make sure to pay what you owe to minimize extra charges.

For more financial information and recommendations, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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