85.9 F
Houston
Thursday, May 1, 2025

Home Blog Page 185

American Figure Skater Ilia Malinin Makes History with Record-Breaking Performance

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
American Figure Skater Ilia Malinin Makes History with Record-Breaking Performance

In a dazzling display of talent and perseverance, 19-year-old American figure skater Ilia Malinin clinched his first world title at the World Figure Skating Championship over the weekend. Overcoming both mental and physical challenges, Malinin delivered a breathtaking free skate that shattered every competition scoring record on record.

Dubbed the “quad god” for his mastery of complex quadruple jumps, Malinin captivated audiences with his flawless execution of six cleanly landed quads during his free skate routine. Set to the haunting theme from the TV show “Succession,” Malinin’s performance seamlessly intertwined music and movement, showcasing his athleticism and artistry in perfect harmony.

Launching his skate with a jaw-dropping quadruple axel, a feat he uniquely owns, Malinin set the tone for his remarkable performance. Landing five more quads with precision and grace, he left spectators awestruck as he concluded his routine to thunderous applause.

Reflecting on his emotional journey, Malinin expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the crowd. “It was amazing to hear the crowd go wild,” he shared, visibly moved by the experience. “I couldn’t even hold myself up, it was that emotional to me. I’m still in shock. I still can’t believe I did this. It’s just incredible.”

The pinnacle of Malinin’s triumph came with the announcement of his record-breaking score: 227.79, the highest ever recorded in the history of the World Figure Skating Championship. Surpassing the previous record set by fellow American Nathan Chen in 2019, Malinin soared from third place to claim the gold medal, a momentous achievement in his burgeoning career.

Despite grappling with a left foot injury in the lead-up to the competition, Malinin’s unwavering determination propelled him to take to the ice. “There was a little voice in my head saying, ‘You have to keep fighting, you have to keep going no matter how good or bad you feel,'” he recounted. “You just had to know what you are capable of and stick to your muscle memory.”

Malinin’s triumph marked a historic moment for American figure skating, as he joined Madison Chock and Evan Bates in securing gold for the U.S. in ice dancing. This double victory marked the first time in 28 years that American skaters have claimed two of the four events at Worlds, echoing the success of Michelle Kwan and Todd Eldredge in 1996.

As Malinin basks in the glory of his unprecedented achievement, his victory stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and unwavering determination on the world stage of figure skating.

Texas to Get Rid of Mandatory Vehicle Inspections Starting 2025

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas to Get Rid of Mandatory Vehicle Inspections Starting 2025

In a significant policy shift set to take effect from 2025, Texas drivers will bid farewell to the requirement of mandatory vehicle inspections. Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 3297 into law on August 5, paving the way for the elimination of regular safety inspections for noncommercial vehicles across the state.

Under the new framework outlined in the bill, drivers will no longer need to undergo vehicle inspections before registering their vehicles. However, they will still be obligated to pay the annual inspection fee of $7.50. For vehicles not previously registered, drivers will incur a fee of $16.75 but will be exempt from the $7.50 inspection fee for the subsequent registration year for the same vehicle.

Despite this overhaul, the 17 Texas counties mandating annual emissions tests will continue to enforce this requirement, unaffected by the new legislation.

This move places Texas in the minority of states with mandatory vehicle inspections, with only 13 others still upholding such regulations since the federal government ceased program requirements in 1976.

While proponents of the bill, including State Representative Cody Harris of Palestine who filed the legislation, argue that mandatory vehicle inspections are redundant, dissenting voices raise concerns about potential safety risks.

Larry Harris, owner of Larry’s Auto Inspection in Houston, expressed apprehension regarding the elimination of mandatory inspections, warning of potential dangers to driver safety. With 34 years of experience in the industry, Harris fears that the move could jeopardize the safety of vehicles on the road and undermine the viability of his business.

“I just think it defies logic,” Harris stated. “If nobody is making sure the vehicles are safe, there’s going to be some unsafe vehicles on the street.”

Highlighting the implications for his business, Harris emphasized that the removal of mandatory inspections would significantly impact his operations.

“I just wonder, if they stopped the safety program and somebody decides to drive unsafe, what’s going to be out there to stop them from driving,” he expressed.

As Texas prepares for this transformative policy change, debates surrounding its potential consequences for road safety and the automotive industry continue to unfold.

165-Acre Site Purchased for Future Harris County Fair and Rodeo Events

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
165-Acre Site Purchased for Future Harris County Fair and Rodeo Events

In a significant development for the Harris County Fair and Rodeo, the Stockton Foundation Inc. has announced the acquisition of a sprawling 165-acre tract of land. Avison Young, representing the foundation in the transaction, revealed the purchase through a news release on March 10.

Fred Stockton, a key figure within the Stockton Foundation and chairman of the Harris County Fair and Rodeo Association, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition’s implications for the organization’s mission. In a statement featured in the news release, Stockton emphasized the foundation’s commitment to youth engagement, agricultural education, entertainment, and family-friendly events.

“We are thrilled to acquire this site to be utilized by our nonprofit group,” Stockton remarked. The expansive land is poised to become the new venue for the Harris County Fair and Rodeo, offering ample space for a diverse range of activities and experiences.

According to Stockton, the inaugural fair and rodeo at the new location is anticipated to take place in late 2024. Notably, plans are underway to relocate several historical buildings to the parcel, adding a touch of heritage and charm to the venue.

Among the structures slated for relocation is the iconic Tin Hall, a beloved landmark originally constructed in the late 1800s in Cypress, TX. Despite its closure in 2014, Stockton expressed his excitement about reviving the historic building in its new setting.

“We will reconstruct the old Tin Hall,” Stockton explained, detailing plans to preserve and repurpose various interior elements salvaged from the original structure. The restoration project aims to breathe new life into the historic venue, offering patrons a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Currently hosted at the East Montgomery Fair Grounds in Sallas Park, New Caney, the Harris County Fair and Rodeo is a cherished annual tradition. With the acquisition of the expansive new site, organizers anticipate expanding the event’s offerings and accommodating a larger audience.

The move marks a significant milestone for the Harris County Fair and Rodeo, signaling an exciting chapter of growth and development for one of the region’s premier cultural celebrations. As plans for the new venue take shape, anticipation builds for the upcoming festivities and the community eagerly awaits the grand debut of the expanded fair and rodeo experience.

Terrorist Attack Rocks Moscow: Concert Hall Massacre Claims Over 100 Lives

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Terrorist Attack Rocks Moscow: Concert Hall Massacre Claims Over 100 Lives

In a shocking turn of events, Moscow finds itself reeling from a devastating terrorist attack that has left the city in mourning. A suburban concert hall became the site of a gruesome massacre as assailants struck, claiming the lives of at least 133 innocent people. This tragedy marks one of the deadliest attacks to have struck Russia in recent memory, sending shockwaves through the nation.

The Islamic State group swiftly claimed responsibility for the heinous act, igniting fears of heightened tensions amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite assertions by the United States backing the jihadist group’s claim, Moscow and Kyiv engaged in a blame game, each pointing fingers at the other amid the chaos.

Details surrounding the attack remain shrouded in uncertainty, leaving many questions unanswered. The assault, which unfolded on Friday night, has raised concerns about its potential connection to a security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Moscow just two weeks prior. The embassy’s warning indicated extremist intentions to target large gatherings, including concerts, in the Russian capital.

As Russia grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the incident. Eleven suspects have been apprehended, shedding some light on the perpetrators behind this senseless act of violence. However, the authenticity of statements issued by Russian investigators remains unconfirmed, adding to the complexity of the situation.

The Islamic State group, notorious for its brutal tactics and extremist ideology, has long been a source of global concern. Originating as an offshoot of al-Qaida, the group gained notoriety for its reign of terror across Iraq and Syria in 2014. Despite significant setbacks on the battlefield, including defeats at the hands of a U.S.-led coalition, the group continues to pose a threat, with remnants operating in various regions across the globe.

The tragic events unfolding in Moscow bear the hallmarks of an ISIS attack, according to security experts. The choice of target, a concert hall, echoes past atrocities perpetrated by the group, including the infamous Bataclan theater attack in Paris and the Manchester Arena bombing. Such calculated acts of terror serve as grim reminders of the enduring threat posed by extremist organizations.

Amidst the grief and uncertainty, Russia observes a national day of mourning, with flags lowered to half-staff and cultural events canceled as a mark of respect for the victims. The harrowing incident has cast a shadow over the city, prompting reflection and solidarity in the face of adversity.

As investigations continue and the nation grapples with the aftermath, the international community stands in solidarity with Russia, condemning this senseless act of violence and reaffirming the collective resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms.

Houston ISD Superintendent Reverses Decision on Principal Evaluation System Following Public Backlash

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Houston ISD Superintendent Reverses Decision on Principal Evaluation System Following Public Backlash

Houston Independent School District (HISD) Superintendent Mike Miles has made a U-turn on the implementation of a contentious aspect of the district’s principal evaluation system, following an intense three-hour public outcry during the board of manager’s meeting on March 21.

Before the meeting convened, 117 district principals received notifications indicating they were at risk of termination based on mid-year screenings conducted through the principal evaluation system. The focal point of contention was a ranking system that would have automatically led to the dismissal of approximately 10% of principals categorized in the lowest tier.

Although the board managers had no plans to vote on the issue during the meeting, approximately 150 community members attended to voice their apprehensions regarding the outcomes of the mid-year screening.

Miles released a statement around 2 a.m. on March 22 after the board’s return from executive session, declaring, “The proficiency screener rating will not be used in the evaluation of principals or other campus administrators in any adverse employment decisions for 2023-24.” He further added, “The superintendent will continue to use instructional data and student achievement data in the exercise of the discretion outlined in board policy.”

Taking a deeper dive into the evaluation system, board managers had sanctioned it in October to determine principal salaries for the 2024-25 academic year. The system categorized principals into six groups, ranging from “Exemplary II” to “Progressing I.” According to the system’s guidelines, principals scoring “Proficient I” or above would retain their positions, while those falling under “Progressing I” would face removal.

While the ranking system won’t influence employment decisions this year, Miles asserted that student achievement data, predominantly derived from test scores, along with instructional data from classroom observations and evaluations, would still play a role in assessing principals’ employment statuses.

At a news conference on March 22, Miles expressed uncertainty regarding whether the district would proceed with terminating 10% of underperforming principals.

In response to the superintendent’s decision, stakeholders weighed in with their perspectives. Elliot Delgado, an 11th-grade student at Carnegie Vanguard High School, expressed concern over his school’s principal not being rated as proficient, citing Carnegie’s outstanding performance. Community member Eileen Harrell criticized the administration, stating her belief that the implementation of the evaluation system was rushed.

Reflecting on the public’s feedback, Miles emphasized its significance in the decision-making process. “There’s no question that the amount of feedback we received from the community at the board meeting is one part and a big part of why the board and I took a lot of time last night to really think through what we were hearing,” he remarked during the news conference. “I think it was good to hear some of the concerns and respond to them in a positive way.”

Texas Showdown: Houston Beats Texas A&M in NCAA Tournament Thriller

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas Showdown: Houston Beats Texas A&M in NCAA Tournament Thriller

In a showdown between Lone Star State rivals, the first weekend of the NCAA tournament culminated in a gripping encounter as two Texas teams clashed, delivering a basketball spectacle that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Houston, carrying the mantle of the South Region’s No. 1 seed, showcased their mettle by edging past the resilient No. 9 seed, Texas A&M, in a heart-stopping 100-95 overtime victory on Sunday night. The game, marked by its pulsating intensity, saw the Cougars secure their fifth consecutive Sweet 16 appearance, further solidifying their credentials as formidable contenders.

The contest unfolded as a tale of two halves, with Houston initially asserting dominance, only for Texas A&M to mount a remarkable comeback. Trailing by 12 points with a mere two minutes left in regulation, the Aggies orchestrated a stirring rally, culminating in a buzzer-beating shot that forced the game into overtime. However, Houston, undeterred by the late-game heroics of their opponents, regrouped and ultimately prevailed with a 14-9 scoring run in the extra period.

Looking ahead, Houston’s journey in the tournament continues as they gear up to face off against the No. 4 seed, Duke, in a highly anticipated showdown scheduled for Friday in Dallas.

The game witnessed several key moments that epitomized the competitive spirit of both teams. Backup guard Ryan Elvin’s clutch free throws in the waning seconds of overtime solidified Houston’s victory, while Texas A&M’s valiant efforts to narrow the gap fell just short, despite their spirited performance.

Throughout the game, pivotal plays and momentum swings kept spectators on edge. From Jamal Shead’s electrifying slam dunk to Texas A&M’s relentless late-game surge, each possession carried immense weight, reflecting the high stakes of March Madness basketball.

As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Houston emerges triumphant, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA tournament. Yet, the resilience displayed by Texas A&M serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where underdogs can defy the odds and rewrite the script at any moment.

With the Sweet 16 on the horizon, basketball enthusiasts await with bated breath as the drama of March Madness unfolds, promising more exhilarating matchups and unforgettable moments on the road to college basketball glory.

12-Year-Old Boy Charged with Aggravated Assault in Stabbing Incident in Harris County

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
12-Year-Old Boy Charged with Aggravated Assault in Stabbing Incident in Harris County

A troubling incident unfolded in northwest Harris County on Saturday afternoon, as a 12-year-old boy stands accused of aggravated assault following a stabbing incident involving a woman. According to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, another child, a 7-year-old boy, is not legally responsible for the assault.

The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. on April Valley Court near Queenston Boulevard. As of Sunday afternoon, the woman remains in critical condition, although the sheriff’s office could not confirm her current status when contacted.

The sheriff’s office disclosed that the two children had returned to the woman’s residence after a potential earlier confrontation, which ultimately escalated into the stabbing. Surveillance footage shared by a neighbor captured a significant portion of the altercation. In the video, the victim can be seen engaged in an argument with two boys on bicycles in her driveway. A neighbor intervenes, urging the boys to leave the woman alone.

According to witnesses, similar confrontations have occurred in the neighborhood previously.

“We try to keep our patience,” remarked Maddy Monsalve, a longtime neighbor. “We are understanding even though it’s very frustrating, and we all have to call the cops, not just me, other neighbors have too, we try to have patience.”

The children involved in the incident were unharmed. Video evidence depicts the boys returning to the scene wearing surgical gloves before approaching the victim in the driveway. A boy in a red hoodie appears to approach the victim before both children flee.

Subsequently, the victim’s family arrived at the scene, with her brother discovering her condition and promptly contacting emergency services.

“Her brother came [by] just to check up on her, he checks on her daily, at that point he came at the right time. He opened the door and saw she was stabbed,” explained HCSO investigator Sergio Torres.

Deputies indicated that the 59-year-old victim has a history of mental health issues. She was initially transported to the hospital in serious condition and later airlifted to another medical facility.

The incident has left residents concerned for their safety.

“If [the kids] have the ability to go and do that to an older woman who clearly has mental issues, and even our neighbor tells them like, hey leave her alone, she has something, now it’s a concern,” expressed Monsalve.

Texas Longhorns Fall Short Against Tennessee Volunteers, Exit NCAA Tournament

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas Longhorns Fall Short Against Tennessee Volunteers, Exit NCAA Tournament

In a hard-fought battle at Spectrum Center on Saturday night, the seventh-seeded Texas Longhorns men’s basketball team saw their NCAA Tournament journey come to an end as they were defeated by the second-seeded Tennessee Volunteers.

Despite a valiant effort, the Longhorns were unable to overcome a double-digit deficit late in the second half, ultimately succumbing to a 62-58 defeat against the Volunteers, who now advance to the Sweet Sixteen.

Throughout the game, Texas struggled to find their rhythm, trailing by nine points at halftime. The team faced shooting woes, with a field goal percentage of just 31% at halftime, coupled with 10 turnovers. In contrast, Tennessee managed to maintain a slim lead despite shooting 29% from the field and a mere 8% from beyond the arc in the first half.

Leading the charge for Texas was guard Tyrese Hunter, who notched a crucial three-point jump shot with just 4.2 seconds remaining in the game, finishing with a team-high 13 points. Forward Dylan Disu contributed 12 points and four rebounds, while guard Chendall Weaver provided a spark off the bench with 13 points.

Adding to the intensity of the matchup was the presence of Tennessee’s head coach, Rick Barnes, who previously helmed the Longhorns from 1998 to 2015, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the contest.

The Longhorns entered the game fresh off a convincing 56-44 victory over No. 10 Colorado State in the tournament’s opening round. However, despite their previous success, Texas struggled to maintain momentum against Tennessee, particularly plagued by turnovers, totaling 16 for the game.

While the loss marks the end of Texas’ tournament run, the team showcased resilience and determination throughout the game, demonstrating their competitive spirit against a formidable opponent in Tennessee.

Potential Severe Storms Looming for Southeast Texas: Here’s What to Expect

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Potential Severe Storms Looming for Southeast Texas: Here’s What to Expect

Following last Thursday’s drenching rainfall in Southeast Texas, which inundated Houston with over 1.5 inches of rain, a new weather system is brewing in the western United States, heralding the likelihood of another round of storms and potentially severe weather by Monday. Here’s a breakdown of what residents can anticipate in the coming days.

Sunday’s Outlook:

Ahead of the anticipated storm activity, Sunday is forecasted to remain dry across southeast Texas. However, changes are on the horizon as moisture levels increase. Despite starting with mostly sunny conditions, clouds are expected to blanket the region throughout the day. Additionally, wind speeds will elevate, reaching up to 20 mph in Houston during the afternoon, with gusts potentially exceeding 30 mph.

Temperatures will hover around 60 degrees early in the morning, gradually climbing to the low 70s by the afternoon, slightly below the seasonal average for late March.

While precipitation is not anticipated in Houston on Sunday, Central Texas may experience late-night storm development, which will progress eastward, impacting East and Southeast Texas by Monday.

Severe Weather Threat:

On Monday morning, scattered thunderstorms are likely to emerge in Houston, particularly after 8 a.m. By late morning to early afternoon, a line of storms is expected to traverse the area. Although a widespread severe weather outbreak isn’t foreseen, isolated storms could yield damaging hail and gusty winds.

The Storm Prediction Center indicates that the Houston metro area faces a level 1 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms on Monday, suggesting the potential for isolated severe impacts. The system is anticipated to be fast-moving, thus limiting overall rainfall accumulation. However, the strongest storms could bring higher rainfall totals, with areas in far East Texas, including Port Arthur and Beaumont, under a level 2 risk.

By late afternoon and evening, the storm activity is projected to shift eastward, impacting Louisiana and Arkansas.

What’s on the Horizon:

Following Monday’s storm activity, a relatively tranquil weather pattern is expected for much of the upcoming week. Tuesday is slated for sunny skies and rising temperatures into the mid-70s. Wednesday may see a slight dip in temperatures and a marginal chance of rain due to a weak low-pressure system, albeit without significant impacts.

Thursday and Friday are forecasted to remain calm as high pressure settles in, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the mid to upper 70s, aligning with typical late March conditions.

Former President Trump Faces Deadline to Secure Bond for Civil Fraud Judgment

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Former President Trump Faces Deadline to Secure Bond for Civil Fraud Judgment

Former President Donald Trump is under increasing pressure as the deadline approaches for him to secure a bond to cover the substantial civil fraud judgment against him. Trump and his legal team are in a race against time to meet the Monday deadline imposed by Judge Arthur Engoron in a multimillion-dollar case brought by the New York Attorney General’s office.

The judgment, amounting to over $454 million personally owed by Trump, with additional sums owed by his sons and the Trump Organization, has raised the stakes in a legal battle that has gripped the nation’s attention. With interest, the total amount owed balloons to $463.9 million.

Legal experts have suggested that failure to secure the required bond could lead to the initiation of asset seizure proceedings by the Attorney General’s office. This would involve targeting Trump’s various assets, including properties, vehicles, and financial holdings.

In response to the looming deadline, Trump has petitioned a state appeals court to either reduce the bond amount or eliminate it entirely, citing potential irreparable harm if forced to sell properties prematurely.

If Trump fails to secure the bond, state prosecutors could move swiftly to seize his bank accounts, which experts believe would be the most immediate and effective course of action. Seizing other assets, such as properties and businesses, would involve a more protracted legal process.

Assets held out of state, notably Trump’s properties in Florida, present additional challenges for state prosecutors. However, legal maneuvers are already underway to facilitate asset seizure proceedings in New York.

The potential impact on iconic Trump properties, such as Mar-a-Lago, remains uncertain, with legal experts suggesting that a contentious legal battle over residency rights could ensue.

Bankruptcy has been posited as a last-resort option for Trump, although it carries significant implications for debt collection efforts.

As the deadline looms, questions have arisen regarding Trump’s financial liquidity, particularly following claims made on the Truth Social platform regarding his available cash reserves. However, discrepancies between Trump’s assertions and his legal team’s statements have added to the uncertainty surrounding his financial standing.

With the clock ticking, the pressure is mounting on Trump and his legal team to navigate the complexities of the legal system and secure the necessary bond to stave off potential asset seizure. As the legal battle intensifies, the outcome remains uncertain, with significant implications for Trump’s financial future and the broader political landscape.

1...184185186...706Page 185 of 706

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