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Here’s why the unusual May heat wave cranks up another notch Wednesday

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The unusual May heat wave underway over Texas cranks up another notch Wednesday, and it will be made worse by an increase in humidity.

The strong Gulf breeze will not only transport in higher humidity Wednesday morning, it will also keep temperatures from cooling much below the mid 70s. Houston got all the way up to a new record high of 95 on Tuesday, and it will be even hotter on Wednesday afternoon with the record high of 93 predicted to get smashed. When it hits 97 around 3 p.m., the temperature will feel more like it’s between 100-105 because of that more humid air.

A Heat Advisory begins at Noon and lasts until 7 p.m. for Brazos, Burleson and Washington counties.

SEE: HOW TO STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY DURING HEAT WAVE

What’s the hottest it will get this week, and how long will it stick around?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be challenged, tied, or broken today through at least Wednesday of next week. That’s right, a solid week of heat in record territory. Additionally, it will be humid enough starting Wednesday to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees well into next week. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. The stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over, and it won’t be until around the middle of next week that we’ll see a 20% chance of rain return.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For tips to stay safe and healthy during the heat wave, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Menendez Brothers Resentenced to 50 Years to Life, Opening Door for Parole After 35 Years Behind Bars

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After spending 35 years in prison for the high-profile 1989 murders of their parents, Erik and Lyle Menendez were resentenced Tuesday to 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible for parole. The move marks a major development in the brothers’ decades-long legal battle and ongoing efforts to gain their freedom.

Originally sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, the Menendez brothers were convicted of killing Jose and Kitty Menendez in their Beverly Hills mansion—a crime that shocked the nation and captivated public attention for years. With this new sentence, they now join a growing number of inmates eligible for release under recent California justice reforms.

Expressions of Remorse and a Push for Redemption

During the resentencing hearing, held virtually with the brothers appearing from prison, both Erik and Lyle Menendez addressed the court with emotional statements.

“I killed my mom and dad,” Lyle admitted candidly. “I give no excuses.” He went on to confess to perjury during his initial trials and apologized for the lies that had compounded his family’s trauma. His brother Erik echoed that tone, saying, “I committed an atrocious act… My actions were criminal, selfish and cowardly.”

He added, “I have come a long way on this path of redemption. I will not stop trying to make a difference.”

Following the hearing, Erik Menendez released a written statement: “This has to be the first step in giving people who have no hope in prison some hope. That possibility that rehabilitation works is more important than anything that happened to me today.”

Family and Legal Support

More than 20 family members supported the resentencing request, including their cousin Anamaria Baralt, who testified on their behalf. Fighting back tears, she urged the court to allow the brothers a chance to reunite with their aging relatives.

“They are very different men than when they committed the murders,” Baralt said. “Their transformation is remarkable.”

Defense attorney Mark Geragos, who has long represented the Menendez brothers, declared the hearing a breakthrough.

“There are no two better candidates in the state of California right now for resentencing than Erik and Lyle Menendez,” Geragos said outside the courtroom. “It’s a unicorn-style situation: horrific crimes, yes, but also unprecedented rehabilitation.”

A retired judge also testified in favor of the brothers, saying their example had changed his outlook on inmate reform. “Because of them, I now believe in rehabilitation,” he stated, describing them as respected figures who help fellow inmates and the elderly.

Prosecution Pushback and Parole Concerns

Despite the ruling, the case remains contentious. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who succeeded George Gascón after his failed re-election bid, filed a motion to reverse the resentencing—calling the brothers’ claims of self-defense part of “a litany of lies.” Judge Michael Jesic ultimately denied that request.

Following Tuesday’s decision, Hochman issued a statement saying, “This case… must be viewed with a critical eye,” emphasizing the need for transparency and a full accounting of the facts.

A recent risk assessment conducted by the California Board of Parole—at the request of Governor Gavin Newsom—rated the brothers as a “moderate risk” if released. The evaluation, part of a separate clemency track, noted the brothers’ involvement in several prison violations over the years, including illegal cellphone possession—most recently by Erik in January of this year.

Still, their disciplinary record has shown improvement. Lyle Menendez has no history of violent behavior behind bars, and Erik’s only infraction involving violence dates back 25 years.

Looking Ahead

The brothers’ fight for freedom now turns to a parallel clemency effort. Their next hearing is scheduled for June 13, when the court will consider arguments stemming from the parole board’s risk assessment. Meanwhile, Governor Newsom retains the authority to grant clemency independently of the resentencing process.

Whether parole or clemency, Erik and Lyle Menendez remain determined to prove that their decades in prison have not been in vain—and that their future lies beyond prison walls.

Keep up with the Menendez brothers’ case with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Signs Landmark Economic Deal with Saudi Arabia in First Stop of Middle East Trip

President Donald Trump began his highly anticipated Middle East tour on Tuesday with a diplomatic and economic milestone: the signing of a broad agreement package with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The visit marks Trump’s first stop on a four-day regional trip focused on strengthening alliances and brokering deals with key partners in the region.

A Warm Welcome from the Saudi Crown Prince

Trump received an enthusiastic reception upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, where Crown Prince Mohammed personally greeted him. The two leaders exchanged pleasantries, with Trump later remarking, “I really believe we like each other a lot.” Their rapport set the tone for a day of high-level meetings and strategic agreements.

Over a Dozen Agreements Signed

The U.S. and Saudi Arabia finalized more than a dozen deals aimed at boosting collaboration across several sectors. These include increased coordination between the two countries’ militaries, closer ties between justice departments, and new partnerships in cultural and educational institutions. The agreements reflect mutual interests in bolstering security and economic engagement amid rising regional tensions.

Iran and Gaza Loom in the Background

While the focus of the trip is on diplomacy and commerce, regional challenges continue to cast a shadow. Both leaders voiced concern over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Although no new policy announcements were made on those fronts, the issues remain central to U.S.-Saudi discussions.

Potential Detour to Turkey Over Ukraine War

Trump also touched on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, hinting at a possible visit to Turkey later this week. Presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to meet in Istanbul on Thursday to discuss a potential peace framework. Trump suggested he might intervene in person “if my presence could help.”

Qatar’s Lavish Gift Sparks Ethics Questions

In a separate development, Trump revealed that the ruling family of Qatar has offered him a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet—a gesture he appears ready to accept. The plane, which U.S. officials say could be retrofitted into a presidential aircraft, has already drawn scrutiny and raised ethical concerns over the propriety of foreign gifts to a sitting U.S. president.

As Trump continues his tour through the region, attention will remain fixed on both the deals he seals and the broader geopolitical implications of his diplomacy in one of the world’s most volatile areas.

Keep up with Trump’s Middle East trip with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Resentencing Hearing for Menendez Brothers Begins, Opening the Door to Possible Release

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After more than three decades behind bars, Erik and Lyle Menendez are facing a crucial turning point. Their long-awaited resentencing hearing begins Tuesday and continues into Wednesday, with both sides prepared for a fierce courtroom showdown that could decide the brothers’ future.

Defense Pushes for Reduced Sentence

Veteran defense attorney Mark Geragos, who has championed the brothers’ release, plans to call seven witnesses in support of their resentencing. While Erik and Lyle Menendez are not expected to testify, their case is bolstered by support from over 20 family members. Geragos argues that the brothers deserve a second chance based on their rehabilitation and the abuse they endured prior to the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.

In this April 12, 1991 file photo, Lyle, left, and Erik Menendez appear in court for a preliminary hearing held in Beverly Hills, Calif.

Judge Reportedly Open to Resentencing

Sources close to both the defense and prosecution told ABC News that the presiding judge is leaning toward granting a resentencing. The Menendez brothers are currently serving life sentences without the possibility of parole. A major shift in their legal prospects came in October 2024 when then-Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced he supported reducing their sentences.

Gascón recommended that their life-without-parole terms be replaced with a sentence of 50 years to life for murder. Since both brothers were under the age of 26 at the time of the crime, California law would make them immediately eligible for parole under the new sentence structure.

Change in District Attorney Brings Renewed Opposition

In March, newly elected District Attorney Nathan Hochman filed a motion to withdraw the resentencing petition, arguing that the brothers’ longstanding claims of self-defense were based on a “litany of lies.” The judge denied Hochman’s motion, allowing the resentencing to proceed.

Hochman continues to oppose the release and has declined to confirm whether he believes the brothers’ allegations of sexual abuse by their father.

“The issue is not never for the resentencing,” Hochman told ABC News on Monday. “It’s not yet.”

Risk Assessment Adds New Layer to Legal Battle

As part of a separate clemency request, California Gov. Gavin Newsom asked the Board of Parole Hearings to conduct a risk assessment on the Menendez brothers. The report, completed recently, concluded that the pair poses a moderate risk to the community if released.

The assessment cited disciplinary violations in prison, including the possession of illegal cellphones. Erik Menendez was found with a cellphone as recently as January 2025—a point Hochman used to question the sincerity of their reform. However, the defense emphasized that Erik’s last violent write-up occurred 25 years ago, and Lyle has never had a violent infraction.

Judge Weighs Preliminary Risk Assessment

Judge Michael Jesic noted that while he will consider elements of the risk assessment, the information remains preliminary. He also ruled that attorneys will not be allowed to question the psychologists who conducted the evaluation.

As the resentencing hearing unfolds, it will not only test the strength of the Menendez brothers’ legal arguments but also highlight evolving public and institutional attitudes toward rehabilitation, youth sentencing, and claims of abuse. The decision could mark a dramatic shift in one of the most infamous criminal cases of the 20th century.

Keep up with the Menendez brother’s case with us on Que Onda Magazine.

How to Stay Safe and Healthy During Houston’s May Heat Wave

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An unusually intense heat wave is sweeping into Houston this week, bringing summer-like temperatures that are more typical of July than mid-May. With highs expected to challenge or break long-standing records, it’s crucial to take precautions to stay healthy and hydrated during this stretch of extreme weather.

Record-Breaking Temperatures Ahead

Starting Tuesday, Houstonians will experience an early-morning warmth that builds rapidly into the afternoon. Temperatures are forecast to reach the low 90s by midday and climb into the mid-90s by late afternoon, according to our news partners at ABC13 Houston. Forecasters expect Houston to potentially tie a record high of 94 degrees set in 1907.

The heat isn’t just here for a day or two—it’s expected to persist through at least next Tuesday. As the humidity rises beginning Wednesday, the heat index (or “feels like” temperature) will likely reach between 100 and 105 degrees. Wednesday may mark the hottest day of the week, with actual temperatures projected to hit 97 degrees. If that holds, it would be the earliest date on record for Houston to hit 97, beating a previous milestone set in 2011.

Meanwhile, areas to the west—such as Austin, San Antonio, and the Hill Country—could see temperatures soar into the 105 to 110 degree range, potentially breaking all-time May heat records.

Little to No Rain Expected

The oppressive heat is being driven by a strong high-pressure ridge, which is not only heating the region but also keeping rain away. Forecasters say there’s little chance of rain throughout the week, with only a slight possibility of isolated showers heading into the weekend.

Tips for Staying Healthy During the Heat Wave

  1. Hydrate Constantly
    Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
  2. Limit Outdoor Activity
    Try to stay indoors during peak heat hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and wear light-colored, breathable clothing.
  3. Never Leave Children or Pets in Cars
    Interior car temperatures can climb to dangerous levels within minutes. Always check the back seat before locking your car, and never leave pets unattended.
  4. Cool Down Your Home
    Use fans and air conditioning if possible. Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to block out heat. If you don’t have access to AC, consider visiting a public place such as a mall, library, or cooling center.
  5. Check on Vulnerable Individuals
    Older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Make sure they’re staying cool and drinking enough fluids.
  6. Know the Signs of Heat Illness
    Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, rapid pulse, headache, and confusion. If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, seek medical help immediately.

As this unseasonably intense heat wave settles over Houston, staying informed and taking the right precautions can help prevent serious health issues. Keep an eye on the forecast, look out for each other, and stay cool.

For more health tips, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

US Egg Prices Drop for First Time in Months, but Stay Close to Record Highs

After months of steady increases, U.S. egg prices saw a welcome decline in April—but the relief for consumers may be limited.

Government data released Tuesday shows that while prices have dipped, they remain significantly higher than they were a year ago.

First Price Drop Since October 2024

According to the latest Consumer Price Index, the average price for a dozen Grade A eggs fell by 12.7% in April, settling at $5.12. This marks the first month-over-month decline since October 2024. The price drop follows a record high of $6.23 per dozen recorded in March.

Chart shows a dip in the average price for a dozen Grade A eggs in April at $5.12. Courtesy: Consumer Price Index.

Eggs Still Nearly Twice as Expensive as Last Year

Despite the decline, egg prices are still up 79% from the previous year. In April 2024, the average price for a dozen eggs was just $2.86. The steep rise is largely attributed to an ongoing bird flu outbreak that has severely impacted the nation’s egg-laying hen population.

Bird Flu Outbreak Continues to Pressure Supply

Since early 2022, more than 169 million birds have been culled due to avian influenza outbreaks. The disease spreads quickly, and once a bird is infected, entire flocks—often numbering in the millions—must be euthanized to prevent further contamination.

In April alone, new outbreaks on farms in Ohio and South Dakota led to the loss of over 927,000 hens. These disruptions have continued to place pressure on egg supplies across the country.

Seasonal Demand Adds Complexity

The timing of the price drop surprised some observers, as egg demand typically peaks around Easter and Passover. That seasonal uptick usually supports higher prices, but this year’s dip suggests a complex mix of factors at play—including changes in supply dynamics and possibly shifting consumer behavior.

While April’s decline may offer a momentary break for shoppers, experts warn that ongoing bird flu outbreaks could mean continued volatility in egg prices in the months ahead.

Keep up with the egg inflation with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Record-setting heat wave begins Tuesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A major May heat wave starting Tuesday will feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May.

The Gulf breeze will bring a warmer start to the day on Tuesday. All the sunshine will rapidly warm temperatures toward 90 by noon and into the mid 90s during the afternoon. The record to beat is 94 from 1907, and we are predicting a record-tying high of 94.

A May heat wave?! How hot are we talking?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be challenged, tied, or broken from this Tuesday through at least next Tuesday. That’s right, a solid week of heat in record territory. Additionally, it will be humid enough starting Wednesday to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. We cannot rule out a stray shower for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but the stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over.as (KTRK) — A major May heat wave starting Tuesday will feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May.

The Gulf breeze will bring a warmer start to the day on Tuesday. All the sunshine will rapidly warm temperatures toward 90 by noon and into the mid 90s during the afternoon. The record to beat is 94 from 1907, and we are predicting a record-tying high of 94.

A May heat wave?! How hot are we talking?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be challenged, tied, or broken from this Tuesday through at least next Tuesday. That’s right, a solid week of heat in record territory. Additionally, it will be humid enough starting Wednesday to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. We cannot rule out a stray shower for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but the stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For health tips to stay safe during a heat wave, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Texas House advances bill to prohibit land sales to people, entities from certain countries

The Texas House has passed a bill allowing the governor to restrict property sales to residents, governments, and entities from countries they deem a threat. This authority was granted through an amendment to Senate Bill 17, which initially limited such restrictions to countries designated as national security threats by the U.S. national director of intelligence (currently China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia).

State Representative Nate Schatzline, a Republican from Fort Worth, sponsored the amendment, arguing it would enable quicker responses to potential threats to Texas. He stated this would allow the governor to act without waiting for federal designation.

Democrats opposed the amendment, with Representative Gene Wu, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, calling it a “dangerous” overreach granting “unfettered power” to the governor without oversight.

Schatzline’s amendment also permits the governor to include “transnational criminal organizations” on the list, citing the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as an example.

Representative Cole Hefner, the Republican from Mt. Pleasant who presented SB 17 in the House, described the bill as a measure to protect Texas land and resources from adversarial nations and oppressive regimes.

Democrats voiced concerns that the bill could lead to discrimination against Asian Americans.

The bill will return to the Senate for approval of the House amendments before potentially being sent to the governor. Key House amendments include limiting a property lease exemption to one year or less (down from the Senate’s proposed 100 years, which Rep. Mitch Little called a “loophole”) and exempting lawful permanent residents.

Several Democratic amendments, including exemptions for visa holders like students, researchers, performers, and athletes, and a proposal for more detailed complaint and investigation procedures, failed.

SB 17 is Senator Lois Kolkhorst, a Republican from Brenham’s second attempt at such legislation, with a similar bill failing in the House in 2023. She described the bill as crucial for protecting Texas’ assets from “hostile nations” and a matter of “national security.”

The passage of the bill was aided by the election of more conservative House members. If enacted, it would take effect on September 1 and apply only to purchases or acquisitions after that date.

The bill mandates the attorney general’s office to establish an investigation process, with violations potentially leading to court orders for property divestment and referral for criminal charges.

While detailed tracking of foreign-owned Texas property is limited (except for agricultural land), a constitutional law professor noted that it is likely a small percentage. The Texas Republican Party, however, considers even 1% too much.

Representative Angie Chen Button, a Chinese American and supporter of the bill, stated it aims to protect “freedom, liberty and national security.”

Some Asian Texans, represented by groups like Asian Texans for Justice, worry the bill could foster animosity and racial profiling, despite its focus on permanent residence rather than national origin. Representative Wu also expressed concern about the broader impact on Asian communities in Texas due to a lack of public distinction between nationalities.

Asian Texans for Justice emphasized that individuals should not be held responsible for their government’s actions. The bill has motivated greater civic engagement within the Asian Texan community.

Wu anticipates the bill could negatively impact the Republican Party in future elections by alienating Asian American voters.

Montgomery County takes over $193M Old Conroe Road project, Conroe scraps plan over funding

Conroe city officials have canceled a $193 million project to extend Old Conroe Road due to a lack of funding commitment from Montgomery County, opting instead to focus on critical water and sewer infrastructure needs. While the city secured federal funds to cover most of the cost, they were still responsible for approximately $40 million. City officials expressed concerns about the financial risk without county partnership, especially given the city’s urgent water infrastructure issues. Despite having already spent $4.7 million on the project, the city estimated an additional $42.5 million would be required due to the county’s uncertain involvement.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough, however, stated that the county is committed to moving forward with the Old Conroe Road extension in collaboration with Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley. Keough emphasized the importance of the project and the potential loss of significant federal funding from the Houston-Galveston Area Council if the project were abandoned.

The 5.7-mile collaborative project between Conroe and the Texas Department of Transportation aimed to connect Sgt. Ed Holcombe Boulevard and Old Conroe Road with a bridge over the West Fork of the San Jacinto River and Lake Creek. Conroe officials noted that only a small portion of the project lies within city limits, suggesting the county would be the primary beneficiary. Mayor Pro Tem Harry Hardman indicated that the county’s recent approval of a substantial bond without allocating funds for this project effectively forced Conroe’s decision.

Record-scorching heat wave coming to Texas this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Do yourself a favor and enjoy Monday morning because it’s probably our last dip into the 50s until we get to the other side of summer. A major May heat wave is incoming this week that will feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May.

We’ll enjoy a crisp northwest breeze through the night that will send morning lows down into the upper 50s to start off our work and school week. The upper low that brought our lovely Mother’s Day weekend weather will start pulling away during the day and taking the clouds along with it. All the sunshine should allow temperatures to easily warm into the mid 80s, which is a typical mid-May reading.

Ozone pollution could be high enough to cause issues for folks sensitive to the lung irritant. Asthma attacks and a dry cough of possible in sensitive individuals.

Monday night the Gulf breeze will return to push lows temperatures back into the mid 60s, which is again another seasonal reading. Starting Tuesday, the May heat wave will make its presence know and stick around for the rest of the week.

A May heat wave?! How hot are we talking?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be tied or broken Tuesday through Friday. Additionally, it will be humid enough to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. We cannot rule out a stray shower for Friday and Saturday, but the stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.