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Friday, May 8, 2026

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Houston Weather: Here’s what to expect over the next 10 days

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — If you like it hot and humid, you’re going to love Houston’s weather over the next 10 days! For everyone else, you’ll be waiting for some time to get another taste of fall like we had earlier this week.

We started off warm and muggy Friday… and that’s how we will stay! While it will be a humid day, the moisture levels will drop off from Thursday’s levels, meaning rain chances will be very near zero percent. That means it should be rain-free for the Friday night football games.

Ozone pollution could also pop up to unhealthy levels in some Houston area neighborhoods.

What’s in store for the weekend?

More of the same. For Saturday and Sunday we expect lows in the mid 70s and highs in the mid 90s. We can’t rule out a stray shower either day, but the rain chance is less than 20%. Ozone pollution could also reach unhealthy levels in some Houston area neighborhoods.

Are there any decent rain chances over the next 10 days?

Not really. A heat ridge settling in over Texas will squash our rain chances to less than 20% every day. By the end of next week, high temperatures will also make a run for the upper 90s.

What is happening in the tropics?

There is a medium chance for tropical development in the far eastern Atlantic over the next 7 days, and there are signs that things could take an active turn the last 10 days of this month. 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.

9/11 Attacks Remembered 24 Years Later

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On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 lives were lost in coordinated terrorist attacks that shook the United States and the world. Today, 24 years later, the nation pauses to reflect on the tragedy, the resilience that followed, and the lasting impact on American life.

Ceremonies Across the Country

Memorial services are taking place in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. In New York, bells tolled at the exact times when the Twin Towers were struck and later collapsed. Families of victims read the names of their loved ones, a solemn tradition that has endured for more than two decades.

A Legacy of Unity and Service

In the aftermath of 9/11, Americans came together in displays of unity and service. First responders who risked and sacrificed their lives remain central to the story of that day. Annual volunteer efforts and charitable events continue to honor their bravery and the spirit of resilience shown by communities across the nation.

Challenges and Reflection

The attacks reshaped U.S. foreign policy, heightened security measures, and left lasting scars on survivors and families. As the nation reflects 24 years later, leaders urge Americans to remember not only the loss but also the responsibility to foster unity in a time of division.

Never Forget

From flags at half-staff to moments of silence, the message is clear: September 11 remains a day etched in memory. “Never Forget” continues to serve as a call to honor those who died, support those still impacted, and carry forward the values of resilience and hope.

Inflation Rises in August as Tariffs Bite

Consumer prices rose 2.9% in August compared to a year earlier, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The increase, up from 2.7% in July, comes as President Donald Trump’s tariffs intensify.

Housing and Food Drive Costs

Housing costs rose 0.4% in August, making up the largest share of the overall increase. Food prices climbed 0.5% and energy costs 0.7%. Egg prices held steady for the month but remain 11% higher than a year ago, while coffee surged 20% year-over-year. Overall, prices grew 0.4% from July, the largest monthly gain since December.

Fed Faces Tough Choices

The report arrives days before the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates. While a rate cut could ease pressure on the slowing job market, it risks fueling further inflation. Chair Jerome Powell has warned that tariffs are adding to price pressures, putting policymakers in a bind between fighting inflation and avoiding recession.

Jobs Market Weakens

Hiring slowed significantly in August, according to a recent jobs report. Revisions also showed fewer jobs were added in 2024 and early 2025 than previously reported. Analysts warn the combination of rising inflation and weak hiring could push the economy toward stagflation.

Political Fallout

The inflation data also follows Trump’s dismissal of BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer, who he accused of manipulating jobs data. McEntarfer, a Biden appointee with two decades of federal service, called her role “the honor of my life.” Former BLS Commissioner William Beach condemned the firing as “totally groundless” and a threat to the bureau’s independence.

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

Apple’s iPhone 17 & 17 Pro Max: A Bold Redesign With Next-Gen Cameras and All-Day Power

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Apple has officially launched the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Max, setting new benchmarks for performance, design, and camera capabilities in the smartphone world. Both models have received major upgrades that appeal to everyday users and demanding content creators alike, including a more powerful chip, all-new display features, and innovative camera systems for photos and video.

Design and Display

Apple has introduced a dramatic new brushed aluminum unibody design, available in deep blue, cosmic orange, and silver finishes. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is slightly larger and heavier than previous models, featuring a 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, while the iPhone 17 sports a 6.3-inch version. Both models benefit from a brighter screen with up to 3,000 nits peak brightness, enhanced anti-reflective coatings, and the debut of Ceramic Shield 2 front and back protection for improved durability. The long-requested ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate has finally come to the base iPhone 17, along with support for Always-On display and LTPO power-saving features.

Performance and Battery

Under the hood, the new A19 and A19 Pro chips drive significant performance gains, offering a six-core CPU, a next-generation Neural Engine for AI tasks, and advanced graphics for mobile gaming and creative work. Apple’s vapor chamber cooling system enables higher sustained performance and contributes to extended battery life. The iPhone 17 Pro Max now boasts the best battery life ever on an iPhone, helped by its larger battery and new internal architecture. Rapid charging is supported via USB-C, with both wireless (MagSafe/Qi2) and wired options.

Camera and Creative Features

The camera systems represent the most significant generational leap, especially on the Pro models. Both feature triple 48MP “Fusion” rear sensors—Main, Ultra Wide, and an all-new Telephoto—that together deliver optical-quality zoom up to 8x on Pro Max. The front-facing camera is also improved, now using an industry-first 18MP sensor with “Center Stage,” making selfies and video calls sharper and more dynamic. Video creators will appreciate new features such as ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, genlock support, and more professional controls for exposure, zoom, and styles.

Practical Upgrades

Other highlights include:

  • Brighter displays and stronger materials for everyday toughness
  • Dual-eSIM functionality (no physical SIM slots), suiting international travelers and security-minded users
  • Refined Action Button and Camera Controls on the chassis, offering shortcuts for the most-used functions
  • Wi-Fi 7, Precision GPS, and the latest 5G modem for high-speed connectivity
  • Expanded storage, ranging from 256GB up to 2TB on Pro Max, for users with demanding needs

Conclusion

In summary, the iPhone 17 series is Apple’s most advanced release yet, with a clear focus on professional creativity, multiplayer gaming, durability, and battery endurance. With its upgrades to display, design, camera, and core performance, both the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro Max are worth considering for users seeking state-of-the-art technology in a sleek, reliable package. Pre-orders began on September 12, 2025, with wide availability following on September 19

FBI Releases Images in Charlie Kirk Shooting Manhunt

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The FBI has released photos of a person of interest in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Officials are offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the suspect’s capture. The individual, seen wearing a cap and sunglasses, was tracked on video moving through stairwells before firing from a rooftop.

Weapon and Cartridges Recovered

Investigators found a Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle wrapped in a towel near the scene. Alongside the weapon, cartridges contained writing described as “transgender and anti-fascist.” Authorities said the meaning is unclear and forensic testing is underway.

Details of the Attack

Kirk, 31, was struck once around 12:20 p.m. Wednesday while addressing a crowd of more than 3,000 people. He was rushed to a hospital but later pronounced dead. Officials confirmed the shooting was targeted and said they are exhausting all leads, including analyzing palm and footwear impressions left at the scene.

Political Reactions

President Donald Trump called the killing a consequence of political demonization and announced flags will be lowered to half-staff. He also said Kirk would be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox described the shooting as a “political assassination,” while leaders from both parties, including President Joe Biden and Gov. Gavin Newsom, condemned the attack.

Controversial Visit

Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, had faced pushback from some Utah Valley University students ahead of his visit. Still, police said no credible threats were identified before the shooting. The university has closed until Sept. 14 as the investigation continues.

National Impact

Kirk was a prominent voice in conservative youth politics and a close ally of Trump. His death has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, highlighting concerns about the rise of political violence in the U.S.

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

Moisture moves in bringing back slight chance of rain Thursday

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — I hope you enjoyed that drier air because the humid air is back!

That extra moisture in the air kept our temperatures from getting too cool this morning with lows only dipping down to the low to mid 70s for most of us. Temperatures will climb into the low 90s with feels like temperatures closer to 100 degrees this afternoon. With the added moisture, we’ll also see a few showers and isolated storms roll through.

What about the rain chance on Thursday?

Moisture along with a weak disturbance will produce a few showers, mainly south of I-10 Thursday afternoon. The rain chance is 20% for Houston, and 30% for our coastal counties.

So no more low humidity for the weekend?

Correct. We’re back to hot, humid weather Thursday and it continues on through the weekend and most of next week. For Saturday and Sunday we expect lows in the mid 70s and highs in the mid 90s. We can’t rule out a stray shower either day, but the rain chance is less than 20%.

What is happening in the tropics?

There is a low chance for tropical development in the far eastern Atlantic over the next 7 days and there are signs that things could take an active turn later this month. 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.

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1333

Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot During Campus Event at Utah Valley University

Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a live student event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, sending shockwaves across the nation and reigniting urgent calls to confront political violence in America.

The Shooting and Immediate Response

Kirk, 31, was addressing students outdoors as part of his “American Comeback Tour” when, shortly after noon, a single gunshot struck him in the neck. Eyewitness video and reporting described Kirk suddenly collapsing as panicked attendees fled, and he was swiftly evacuated by his security detail. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The shooter reportedly fired from a nearby building at a distance of roughly 200 yards, and police launched a massive response involving local, state, and federal law enforcement.

Utah Valley University immediately closed the campus, canceled classes, and issued lockdown protocols for student safety.

Outpouring of Condemnation

President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death and described him as “the Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk,” expressing sympathy for Kirk’s family and calling for prayers. Bipartisan figures—Vice President JD Vance, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Democratic leaders Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris, and House Speaker Mike Johnson—offered condolences, called for unity, and condemned the violence. Social media platforms were inundated with reactions and tributes from politicians, activists, and constituents nationwide.

Charlie Kirk’s Impact

Charlie Kirk founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and quickly grew the movement to include hundreds of college chapters and major conservative youth conferences coast to coast. His energetic organizing and influential media outreach helped shape Republican strategy for engaging young voters, making Turning Point USA a pivotal force in campus activism. Kirk’s approach—bridging grassroots organization with mass media—redefined conservative political engagement among new generations. His commitment to free speech, limited government, and social values leaves a lasting mark on American politics.

Community and National Reflection

Utah Valley University mourned Kirk’s passing and reaffirmed its dedication to free speech and student safety. The shooting has sparked intense conversations about the security of public events and the dangers of political polarization, emphasizing the need for civility and respect in American society.

Charlie Kirk’s impact endures, his life a testament to bold activism, and his death an urgent call to reject violence as a means of political discourse.

Harris County Moves Toward Finalizing $4 Billion Budget Without Tax Hike

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Harris County commissioners voted 3–2 on Tuesday to approve a $4 billion budget plan that avoids Judge Lina Hidalgo’s proposed tax increases. The decision comes as the county faces a deficit driven in part by a $100 million pay raise for law enforcement.

Budget Balancing Measures

Commissioners Adrian Garcia, Lesley Briones, and Tom Ramsey backed the plan, which relies on a hiring freeze, use of surplus funds, cost-saving measures, and the expiration of pilot programs. They argued these steps would fill the gap without raising taxes.

Garcia assured residents the impact would be minimal, noting that out of nearly 20,000 county employees, only eight positions could be affected.

Pushback From Hidalgo and Ellis

Hidalgo and Commissioner Rodney Ellis opposed the plan, saying it cuts too deeply into progressive programs that provide housing, health care, legal aid, and youth services. “We are here to kill programs today,” Hidalgo said, arguing voters should have a say on potential tax hikes.

Ellis echoed her concerns, warning the county is making “poor budgetary decisions” by refusing to raise revenue.

Community Voices

The meeting drew residents both for and against the plan.

“Leadership means serving all residents, not just law enforcement,” said Lynitta Robinson, who urged more investment in equity and opportunity.

Others, like Laila Khalili, accused commissioners of downplaying service cuts: “You are lying to our faces.”

What’s Next

The budget, which maintains the law enforcement pay raise while scaling back progressive initiatives, will come up for final approval on Sept. 18.

For more on Harris County updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Blocks Trump From Removing Fed Governor Lisa Cook

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A federal judge on Tuesday temporarily blocked President Trump from removing Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, allowing her to keep her seat while her lawsuit challenging the firing moves forward. The ruling comes just days before the Fed’s next policy meeting on Sept. 16–17.

Court Finds Cook Likely to Prevail

Judge Jia Cobb of Washington, D.C., said Cook is “substantially likely” to succeed on her claim that the removal violated the Federal Reserve Act, which only allows dismissals for cause. Cobb wrote that dismissal cannot be based on unproven conduct from before an official took office.

Cook’s lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said the decision “reaffirms the importance of safeguarding the independence of the Federal Reserve from illegal political interference.”

Allegations of Mortgage Fraud

Trump cited claims that Cook submitted false mortgage information, allegations first made public by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte. The Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation, but Cook denies wrongdoing and says she was never given a chance to respond.

Her lawsuit argues Trump’s move was a pretext to open a Fed board seat for himself to fill. Cook’s lawyers warned that even a temporary removal would “crack the foundation” of the Fed’s independence.

Legal Battle With High Stakes

The case could head swiftly to the Supreme Court. Recent rulings have weakened job protections at independent agencies, though justices have suggested Fed officials may hold stronger safeguards.

Cobb, a Biden appointee, rejected the administration’s broader interpretation of what constitutes cause for removal, ruling that it must relate to a governor’s ability to perform their duties while in office. Cook, also appointed by Biden, is serving a term through 2038.

White House and Fed Response

A White House spokesman said the administration would appeal, calling the decision “not the last say on the matter.” Justice Department lawyers argued courts should defer to the president’s judgment on removals.

The Fed, named as a defendant alongside Trump, said it would abide by court orders but emphasized the uncertainty hanging over the central bank. Chairman Jerome Powell has not commented publicly on the dispute.

For more on the aftermath of Cook’s removal, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.