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Rex Lindberg Interview: Pasadena Mayoral Candidate Shares Vision Ahead of June 7 Runoff

In a sit-down interview with Que Onda Magazine, Pasadena, Texas mayoral candidate Rex Lindberg discussed his vision for the city ahead of the June 7 runoff election. Early voting begins May 27 and ends June 3.

Lindberg, a Pasadena native and the city’s Community Relations Director for the past eight years, said he’s ready to lead based on his experience from within city government.

“I was born and raised in Pasadena; it’s my home,” Lindberg said.

“As the Community Relations Director and working out of the mayor’s office, being in the trenches with every kind of problem or disaster that could come up, I feel like I’m fully prepared and the most experienced person in this city to take on this challenge.”

He emphasized his close collaboration with police, fire, EMS, and city directors, and pointed to his first-place finish in the May 3 election—despite being a first-time candidate.

“I am honored and thankful for the support from voters across the City of Pasadena in our campaign,” he said.

Lindberg added that if elected, his priorities will include reliable city services, public safety, strong infrastructure, and keeping taxes low.

“Continuing forward, together, let’s ensure a Pasadena for everyone.”

Latino entrepreneurs and Pasadena mayoral candidate Rex Lindberg.

What Would You Do in Your First 100 Days?

Lindberg said he would prioritize meetings with all 28 department directors and leadership from police and fire departments.

“To ensure we are on the same page and focused on public safety and improving infrastructure.”

Will You Hire Bilingual Staff?

Lindberg highlighted the city’s large Latino population—nearly 70%—and affirmed the importance of language access in public service.

“Spanish is the first language of many households in Pasadena,” he said.

“I am proud that the City of Pasadena has a vibrant bilingual staff… [which] enhances city service and builds trust with the community.”

Are You Planning to Hire More Police Officers?

Public safety remains a top focus. Lindberg said the next police cadet class will boost staffing.

“Hiring more police officers will be a top priority to improve public safety and replace retiring police officers.”

“Our goal is to get us to 325 to serve the city’s population.”

How Would You Handle Public Safety?

Lindberg said Pasadena’s new Training Campus will help ensure high-quality preparation for officers. He supports using technology to help law enforcement and emphasized the value of a strong community presence.

“We will continue to expand law enforcement, have a visible presence in the community, and support our first responders.”

He also noted the importance of bilingual officers in connecting with Spanish-speaking residents.

How Will You Address Infrastructure Needs?

Flood mitigation will be a top priority. Lindberg said he has already helped repair “several hundred miles of streets and sidewalks.” He supports preventative maintenance and will pursue state and federal funding for larger projects.

“Voter approved bond proposals will only be considered for major projects that have the support from our civic and business community leadership.”

Latino Business Owners Back “El Compa Rex”

Latino entrepreneurs interviewed by Que Onda Magazine in Spanish shared strong support for Lindberg, who they say is the first local candidate to approach them for input. The group Amigos Empresarios affectionately call him “El Compa Rex.”

“We’re grateful to El Compa Rex and Willie Rios for asking for the Hispanic business community’s support,” said one business owner.

“No one has done that before. They gave us the opportunity to be heard, to be part of something. We’re 100% behind him.”

Another entrepreneur said: “We’re proud to work with someone who values the Latino community. Politics is about trust— and we trust El Compa Rex.”

A third added: “Amigos Empresarios started with 25 business owners and now we’re 70 strong. Our goal is to support politicians—no matter their background—if they’ll work with us and help us in return. That’s what really matters.”

Lindberg said the support from Latino business leaders means a lot.

“I’m honored to have the trust of local entrepreneurs who help drive Pasadena’s future.”

Election Day is Saturday, June 7. Early voting runs May 27–June 3.
For more on the city of Pasadena’s mayoral runnoff election, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Que Onda Magazine honra a las madres latinas del Condado de Harris

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Con música, comida gratuita, rifas y mensajes inspiradores, Que Onda Magazine celebró la tercera edición anual de “Ven Y Baila con Mamá” en Talento Bilingüe de Houston, un evento dedicado a honrar a las madres latinas del Condado de Harris que trabajan y lideran en sus comunidades.

Además de ofrecer un ambiente festivo con presentaciones musicales de los talentos latinos Marko González y Chloe Castellanos, el evento sirvió como una plataforma para resaltar historias de esfuerzo, superación y liderazgo femenino.

Madres trabajadores comparten sus inspiradoras historias.

Entre las invitadas destacadas estuvieron la alguacil Silvia Treviño del Precinto 6, la fundadora de Que Onda Magazine Lilia Esparza, la subalguacil del Condado de Harris Laura Magallanes, y Carla Goffney, ingeniera operadora del Departamento de Bomberos de Houston. Cada una compartió su experiencia personal como madre, profesional y servidora pública, demostrando con su presencia la diversidad y fortaleza de la mujer en sectores clave de la comunidad.

Three people stand on the stage posing for a photograph.

“¡Feliz Día de las Madres a todas las guerreras que están aquí!”, expresó la alguacil Treviño, quien relató su trayectoria desde sus comienzos humildes en el Northside de Houston hasta convertirse en la primera mujer hispana en ocupar su cargo.

“No fue fácil, pero trabajé duro para demostrar que las mujeres latinas también pertenecemos en posiciones de liderazgo y servicio.”

También habló de su reciente experiencia enfrentando el cáncer de mama. “Fue aterrador, pero la detección temprana me salvó la vida. Mujeres, háganse la mamografía. No esperen,” insistió, resaltando la importancia del autocuidado y la salud preventiva.

La psicóloga Adriana Villegas compartió un mensaje poderoso dirigido a las madres que sienten que deben sacrificar sus sueños por su rol en la familia.

“No somos solo madres—somos mujeres primero. Nuestros hijos necesitan vernos soñar, crecer y vivir con autenticidad.” Subrayó que lo más importante no es estar presente cada segundo, sino ofrecer tiempo de calidad con amor y propósito.

También participó la emprendedora Lisa Swift, quien compartió su historia de recuperación tras enfrentar una grave enfermedad que la llevó a necesitar un trasplante de pulmón. Durante su proceso de sanación, fundó SP Passion, una plataforma para empoderar a otras mujeres a través del apoyo emocional y el desarrollo personal.

“Cada desafío trae consigo una oportunidad de crecimiento. Cuiden de ustedes mismas primero. Solo así podremos servir a los demás con fuerza y compasión.”

El evento culminó en un ambiente de alegría, baile y hermandad, celebrando el papel esencial de las madres latinas en la vida familiar y comunitaria. Para muchas, fue una oportunidad no solo de ser reconocidas, sino también de reconectarse con su fuerza interior.

Gracias a nuestros patrocinadores por hacer este evento posible: Departamento de Bomberos de Houston, Crime Stoppers de Houston, Departamento de Policias de Houston, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Unidos, MECA Houston, Cantu’s Kitchen, Telemundo Houston, Texas Robot Show, Kater Catering, Las Ahogadas, Esfenix, CBBA Radio, Sylvia Reyes y Goya. 

Para mas de Que Onda entre la comunidad, siguenos en nuestro sitio web.

Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Houston with Free Festivals, Music, and Outdoor Fun

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As Memorial Day weekend approaches, both Houstonians and visitors can enjoy a vibrant array of events and experiences throughout the city and nearby areas.

From soulful tributes and maritime celebrations to lakeside relaxation and family movie nights, here are some of the best free or low-cost activities to kick off the unofficial start of summer.

Feel the Rhythm at Hermann Park with “Motown & More”

One of Houston’s favorite Memorial Day traditions returns with the Motown & More Show at Miller Outdoor Theatre. This high-energy, soulful weekend features some of the city’s top talent in an unforgettable tribute to the music that defined generations.

Dance and sing along to the hits of Marvin Gaye, Chaka Khan, The Isley Brothers, Rick James, Whitney Houston, SWV, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. Presented by the Bacement Foundation for the Arts, Dancin’ In The Street: Motown & More is more than a concert—it’s a cultural celebration of legacy, community, and rhythm.

Location: Miller Outdoor Theatre, Hermann Park

Full schedule here.
Admission: All performances are free and open to the public

Explore the Port of Galveston, Celebrating 200 Years

Head to Pier 21 in Galveston to explore interactive historical exhibits as the port celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Make it a full day: take the free Galveston-Bolivar Ferry, enjoy a dolphin sightseeing tour from the pier, and relax on the beaches along the Seawall.

Admission to Pier 21 and the Bolivar Ferry is free. Tickets for rides, parking at Pier 21, and dolphin tours are sold separately.

Pier 21 in Galveston. Courtesy: Indira Zaldivar.

Enjoy the Seaside Breeze at Kemah Boardwalk

For families and thrill-seekers, Kemah Boardwalk offers a charming coastal getaway. Enjoy rides, waterfront restaurants, and the adrenaline-pumping Beast speedboat ride across Galveston Bay. Whether you’re after relaxing views or heart-racing fun, Kemah is a coastal gem just a short drive from Houston.

Location: Kemah Boardwalk
Admission: Free; ride tickets sold separately

Family Movie Night at Discovery Green – May 24

Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, and favorite snacks to Discovery Green for a cozy free Family Movie Night under the stars. Enjoy a fun film in the heart of downtown, surrounded by Houston’s impressive skyline.

Food, beer, and wine will be available for purchase at The Lake House. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not allowed.

Location: Discovery Green, Downtown Houston
Date: May 24
Admission: Free

Lake Getaways: Lake Houston and Lake Conroe

If you’re craving a more laid-back weekend, Lake Houston and Lake Conroe offer perfect spots for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. Pack a picnic and unwind by the water—just a short drive from the city.

Location: Lake Houston via Alexander Deussen Park and Lake Conroe
Admission: Free access at many public areas

Celebrate Freedom, Fun, and Community

Whether you’re grooving to Motown classics, exploring Galveston’s maritime history, or enjoying the lake breeze, Houston offers plenty of ways to enjoy Memorial Day Weekend. Best of all, many of these activities are free. It’s the perfect chance to gather with family and friends, honor the occasion, and create unforgettable memories.

Tip: Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and plan ahead for parking and crowds, especially at popular outdoor locations.

For the scoop on things to do, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston City Council approves $1B HPD contract making it ‘highest paid police department in Texas’

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — On Wednesday, the Houston City Council approved a nearly $1 billion agreement with the Houston Police Officers Union.

The agreement, shared with ABC13, outlines a series of raises for officers over the next five years. Documents show officers will receive a total pay bump of nearly 37%.

Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz said the agreement makes HPD “the highest paid police department in the State of Texas.”

Short staffing at the department has gripped headlines in recent years. Top brass, in part, blamed a recent suspended case scandal on the matter.

“These additional resources will be essential in retaining our seasoned officers while also growing our ranks with new recruits,” Diaz said.

Diaz told ABC13 he plans to poach officers from nearby law enforcement entities. He said more than 200 officers who identify themselves as employees of nearby departments used a QR code over a 24-hour period from Tuesday into Wednesday, indicating that they wanted more information on joining the department. Diaz said approximately 75 of the 200 officers identified themselves as members of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

On Wednesday, HPD posted a flyer on social media advertising a lateral officer class for September. The post stated that the department was seeking officers with three or more years of experience.

“That’s what we’re gonna target. The people that we already have here,” Diaz told ABC13.

In light of the HPD pay bump, the Sheriff’s Office requested pay raises from Harris County officials.

According to a press release from Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen’s Office, all eight Harris County Constables, two Harris County Commissioners, and law-enforcement labor leaders plan to host a press conference on Thursday addressing the “City of Houston’s historic investment Wednesday in police salaries and public safety.”

Houston City Council greenlit the HPD agreement, which is baked into the proposed FY 2026 budget, minutes after a public hearing on the budget proposal.

During the hearing, several council members and constituents expressed concern regarding proposed funding cuts to other city departments, which were also outlined in the proposal. Departments were initially asked to cut 10% to help combat a forecasted budget deficit of several hundred million.

The deficit was slashed to approximately $100 million and settled by drawing money down from the city’s fund balance. City Controller Chris Hollins and City Finance Director Melissa Dubowski have both equated the fund balance to Houston’s “savings account.”

“Today we are taking care of our police officers, but we also need to find ways to take care of the other employees as well,” said District F Council Member Edward Pollard.

The FY 26 budget proposal shows the Neighborhoods Department, for example, is set to lose half of its general fund money, dropping from $14 to $7 million. Similarly, the Health Department is set to experience a $7 million cut.

“I agree that police and fire need raises, but we’re taking it away from the other departments. Please, help us out,” pleaded Neartown Montrose Super Neighborhood President Jack Valinski.

Wednesday Diaz pushed back against insinuations that officer pay bumps resulted in cuts to other city departments. He told ABC13 that the department was also subject to recent cuts.

While uniformed officers will receive raises, many civilian HPD services are being consolidated with city departments. More than 100 department civilian employees also accepted a city employee retirement buyout package that went into effect May 1.

Diaz said the reorganization efforts resulted in the loss of approximately 50% of the civilian staff at HPD headquarters over the past seven months.

“There’s no blank check. There’s no endless pot of gold,” he stressed.

Houston attorneys say Venezuelan refugee disappeared from ICE custody in March

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Two Houston attorneys are fighting against the U.S. government to find out where a Venezuelan refugee was taken after disappearing from ICE custody in March.

Now, a federal judge is demanding that the U.S. government, including ICE and Homeland Security, confirm the whereabouts of Widmer Agelviz-Sanguino and restore attorney-client communication.

Attorneys representing Sanguino tell ABC13 that he, his two younger brothers, and his mom came from Ecuador to Houston in September. They say that’s when Agelviz-Sanguino was detained as the government accused him of having ties with the Venezuelan gang Tren De Aragua.

His attorney tells ABC13 he was taken to the Montgomery County ICE processing Center.

“Just the ability to speak to him would go a long way for us,” said his attorney, Javier Rivera.

Attorney Javier Rivera filed a lawsuit earlier this month detailing that he believed his client, Widmer Agelviz-Sanguino, was removed unlawfully by the U.S. in disregard for due process.

“Widmer and his family were referred to refugee resettlement in the United States through a UN program after being identified in Ecuador and were vetted and granted permission to come to the United States,” Rivera said.

Attorneys tell ABC13 that Sanguino, his two younger siblings, and his mom flew into Houston at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in September to start a new life.

“After being invited, after being provided travel documents to come to the United States, he was arrested at the airport and told he was a gang member and we’re going to deport you back to the place you fear most,” Rivera said.

Rivera says border agents questioned Sanguino about his arm tattoo of a rose, owl, and clock.

“They use tattoos as their end-all be-all for membership in this gang,” Rivera said.

Sanguino’s attorneys claim the tattoos all have special meanings to him. Rivera says the rose was a nod to Sanguino’s grandmother, who loved her rose bush garden. They say the owl and clock represent the area he grew up in, which had owls that would always come in the middle of the night.

Attorneys say Sanguino was immediately taken into ICE custody from the airport.

They say a few weeks later, Sanguino tried to file for asylum since the government told him he was no longer able to take part in the refugee resettlement program.

In March, days before a decision was supposed to come down on his case, his attorneys tell ABC13 they believe he was taken from the ICE facility in Montgomery County, and later deported on a flight to El Salvador to a prison called CECOT. No one has heard from Sanguino since. Eyewitness News was recently told that his family and legal team saw his name detailed in a list of people deported to CECOT from a media report.

“No criminal history. He has never been charged of any crimes either in Venezuela, Ecuador, or anywhere in the world,” Angel Rivera, another attorney representing Sanguino, said.

Angel Rivera says he last heard from him on March 10 or 11. He tells us Sanguino sounded scared on that call.

He says the flight to CECOT was a few days later.

It’s now May. Sanguino’s family and attorneys believe he’s in CECOT only because of media reports, but to this day, no one has heard from him. They say they haven’t been told exactly where he is or how he’s doing.

It’s what the Riveras are trying to get to the bottom of.

Some Harris County commissioners oppose Judge Lina Hidalgo’s request to fund trip to Paris

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo wants to use more than $20,000 in taxpayer dollars for an economic trip to Paris, but some commissioners think it should be funded another way.

On Thursday, Harris County commissioners will meet. On the agenda is an item for $23,300 requested by the county judge’s office for a delegation to travel for a week to Paris. The judge’s office said it’s an economic trip.

At first, Hidalgo tried to limit details. In prior meetings, she cited security concerns as a reason to avoid disclosing the location of the trip.

That prompted commissioners to look at the county’s policy when it comes to international travel.

“We are all stewards of taxpayer dollars,” Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones said. “I believe when we’re using public funds, we need to be completely transparent and open with the public.”

The Greater Houston Partnership said Hidalgo would be part of its efforts in June. As part of a collaboration with Rice University, it’s heading to Paris to expand the region’s global presence and attract business.

“The Greater Houston Partnership, in collaboration with Rice University, is leading a trade and investment mission to Paris aimed at positioning Houston as a global leader in technology and innovation. This delegation underscores our long-standing international engagement and growing presence in global innovation hubs. The mission includes participation in Viva Technology, Europe’s premier tech and innovation conference, as well as meetings with senior government officials, investors, and corporate decision-makers. These engagements are focused on advancing innovation, investment, and collaboration between Houston and key European markets.”

Commissioner Tom Ramsey told ABC13 he thinks the Greater Houston Partnership should fund Hidalgo’s trip, and not county taxpayers. University of Houston political expert Nancy Sims said that’s not necessarily a better option.

“For us as taxpayers, the question becomes would we rather the private sector pay for that, or would we rather invest a small amount of tax dollars and get potential significant returns,” Sims explained.

Experts though said the optics aren’t ideal. Recently, Hidalgo told deputies the county couldn’t afford to give them raises.

Now, she wants money for international travel. To give raises, county officials say it would cost $140 million.

The trip is about $23,000, and it’s not the only one her office has requested.

ABC13 looked at each agenda since last year. The judge’s office has requested more than $160,000 for travel.

“This one of those situations where elected officials find themselves in a no-win situation, yet it’s an important part of their job,” Sims explained.

The agenda item doesn’t just show the cost, but the dates. It shows the trip would take place June 8 to June 15.

ABC13 doesn’t have many details about the weeklong itinerary, but the Greater Houston Partnership said they plan to meet with tech leaders, senior government officials, and investors. Commissioners court is expected to vote on the item during Thursday’s meeting.

Attorney wants civil case against GOP mega-donor to move forward after criminal cases dropped

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — As a controversial case involving a GOP mega-donor, fake ballot allegations, and a roadside confrontation takes a dramatic turn, the attorney for the man who was targeted says it’s important his civil case moves forward.

“This is the only way the public will learn what really happened,” Dicky Grigg said after the announcement by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office on Tuesday that most of the criminal charges against Republican activist Dr. Steven Hotze and former Houston Police Department Captain Mark Aguirre have been dismissed.

Grigg represents David Lopez, an innocent AC repairman who was falsely accused of transporting fake ballots as part of a conspiracy theory-funded private investigation back in 2020. Court records state Hotze financed the operation and hired Aguirre and others to carry it out. On Oct. 19, 2020, Aguirre allegedly rammed into Lopez’s truck and held him at gunpoint, expecting to find fraudulent ballots. None were found, and Lopez, unaware of what was happening, believed he was being robbed.

Hotze and Aguirre were subsequently charged with aggravated assault, robbery, and unlawful restraint, among other crimes.

Now, over three years later, District Attorney Sean Teare has announced that 7 out of 9 criminal cases tied to the incident are being dismissed. At a press conference, attorneys for the defendants celebrated the decision, criticizing the previous administration under former DA Kim Ogg for mishandling the case.

“This was a great day, and we’re rejoicing that justice has been served,” Jared Woodfill, Hotze’s attorney, said.

In a statement, Teare accused the prior administration of engaging in “political theater” and pursuing media attention rather than justice. He also cited failures to turn over evidence and even the loss of some evidence by Ogg’s prosecutors. Ogg did not respond to ABC13 request for comment.

Despite the dismissed criminal cases, Teare said Aguirre still faces two remaining charges. However, Grigg said the focus now turns to the civil courts. The civil case was paused while the criminal cases were still active.

“Now that the criminal cases have been dismissed, he’s going to get his day in court,” Grigg said. “He didn’t know what was happening. He didn’t know the people that were doing it to him. You can believe whatever you want in America, but when you act on those beliefs in a way that harms innocent people, there must be accountability,” he added.

SEE PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
DA dismisses charges against GOP activist and former HPD captain in voter fraud conspiracy case
Dr. Steven Hotze indicted in 2020 case involving former HPD officer accused of assaulting repairman
Houston ‘family man’ sues GOP activist Hotze after ‘violent’ traffic stop
Ex-HPD captain indicted for aggravated assault in bizarre voter fraud conspiracy case

Stephen F. Austin University deaf track star on overcoming adversity: ‘Deaf people can do anything’

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Jarvis Anderson couldn’t hear the cruel comments, but he knew some of the children he grew up with often excluded him.

He knew how much that hurt, so Anderson’s father offered words of wisdom and encouragement. “I know the kids aren’t including you, and you’re being bullied,” his father told him. “You can’t control what they do, but you can control how you feel.”

Anderson took those lessons to heart and pursued his passion for running track. He never let the fact that he’s deaf slow him down. “I want to show them deaf people can do things,” the star at Stephen F. Austin told me. “Deaf people can run track. Deaf people can do anything they want to do.”

Anderson has done it all at SFA. He competes in the triple jump, the 4×400 meter relay, and his favorite, the 400 meter hurdles. He also played for the Lumberjacks football team before deciding to focus on track. “It’s very important to stay positive,” he said through his interpreter. “I’ve experienced hearing people bullying me, but I’ve always tried to focus on what I can do and count my blessings… and not let them get me down.”

This weekend in Houston, Anderson won the Southland Conference title in the 400-meter hurdles.

He has his sights set on much bigger goals in the Olympics. “I’m really looking forward to LA,” Anderson told ABC13.

He’s focused on a great opportunity in Los Angeles in 2028. Until then he’ll continue to ask if the meets he competes in are using the “loud” starter’s pistol. It’s the only kind he can hear.

“I’m fortunate that I can hear about 5% in my left ear,” Anderson said. “So if they have a loud enough gun, I can hear that.”

Later this year, Anderson will head to the World Deaflympics in Japan. He told ABC13 he’ll spend part of the summer coaching children. He’s proving his point that deaf people can do anything they want to do every day.

Houston Texans Face Tough Start to 2025, Prep for Uniform Redesign and Long-Term Deals

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The Houston Texans are gearing up for a pivotal season, facing a demanding 2025 schedule, eyeing major contract extensions, and planning a bold new uniform debut in 2026.

The Texans open the regular season against the Los Angeles Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers—both 2024 division winners. The schedule includes nearly 18,000 miles of travel across eight road games, including two cross-country trips to Los Angeles. Despite the demanding travel, the team will play 12 of its 17 games in climate-controlled or retractable-roof stadiums, which could provide a consistent playing environment.

The Texans will also appear in four prime-time games this year, a sign of the team’s rising national profile.

Off the field, the Texans announced they are working on “rivalry uniforms” set to debut in 2026. Owners Cal and Hannah McNair said the new looks are inspired by the community, echoing the approach of Nike’s City Connect uniforms in baseball. While fans have called for the return of the beloved Oilers-inspired “H-Town blue,” legal restrictions mean the Texans can only use the color as an accent, due to trademark rights held by the Tennessee Titans.

Meanwhile, speculation is swirling around massive contract extensions for two of Houston’s cornerstones. Quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. are expected to command long-term deals that could approach a combined half-billion dollars. Locking up both players remains a top priority for the franchise.

The team has also made several roster moves this month. On May 13, the Texans signed defensive tackle Folorunso Fatukasi, a seven-year veteran out of UConn. The team also claimed linebacker Jackson Woodard off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks on May 7. Woodard played college football at Arkansas and UNLV.

Center Juice Scruggs has emerged as a potential breakout candidate for the upcoming season. With changes across the offensive line, Scruggs is expected to be a key contributor to the Texans’ offensive success in 2025.

Texans fans looking to show their support can grab newly released 2025 draft merchandise, including limited-edition fitted hats and official jerseys, available online and in stores.

As the Texans prepare to kick off what could be a defining season, all eyes are on how they’ll handle early tests, navigate contract negotiations, and continue building their identity both on and off the field.

Astros Go 7–5 in Key May Stretch, Show Depth Despite Injuries

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The Houston Astros continued to assert themselves as contenders in the American League West, finishing a 12-game stretch between May 7 and May 19 with a 7–5 record. The team showcased both its offensive firepower and bullpen depth, even as star slugger Yordan Álvarez remained sidelined with a hand injury.

Houston kicked off the run with a commanding 9–1 road win over the Milwaukee Brewers on May 7. Left-hander Framber Valdez delivered a gem, pitching seven innings of one-run ball with seven strikeouts. Shortstop Jeremy Peña sparked the offense with a home run and four RBIs.

The Astros then returned home for a six-game homestand, splitting a three-game set with the Cincinnati Reds before taking two out of three from the Kansas City Royals. Houston’s pitching staff was dominant in the bookend victories against Cincinnati, including a 3–0 shutout on May 9 and a 6–0 win on May 11. However, the Reds erupted for 13 runs in a wild game on May 10, handing the Astros their highest-scoring loss of the month.

Against Kansas City, Houston dropped the opener 7–5 but bounced back with tight victories on May 13 and May 14, winning 2–1 and 4–3 respectively. Clutch hitting and solid bullpen work played key roles throughout the series.

The road trip that followed tested the Astros further. In a four-game showdown with the division-rival Texas Rangers, Houston split the series 2–2. After being shut out 1–0 in the opener on May 15, the Astros responded with a 6–3 win the next day. Despite a 5–1 loss on May 17, Houston closed the series with a narrow 4–3 win on May 18 behind timely hitting and a strong bullpen performance.

The stretch concluded with a dramatic 4–3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on May 19. Center fielder Jake Meyers broke a 3–3 tie in the seventh inning with a solo home run—his second homer of the season. Peña remained hot at the plate, going 3-for-4. The bullpen trio of Bryan King, Bryan Abreu, and Josh Hader held the Rays scoreless over the final three innings. Hader notched his 12th save of the year.

Through 47 games, the Astros sit at 25–22 and second place in the AL West, continuing to weather injuries while maintaining a winning record.

Injury Watch:
Álvarez is continuing his recovery and is expected to return in the coming weeks. The team has not yet announced a definitive timeline.

Up Next:
The Astros continue their road trip with games against the Tampa Bay Rays and Seattle Mariners as they look to keep pace with the Rangers atop the division.