77.2 F
Houston
Thursday, May 1, 2025

Home Blog Page 201

Inmate Maintains Innocence as Execution Date Looms: Ivan Cantu’s Fight for Justice

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Inmate Maintains Innocence as Execution Date Looms: Ivan Cantu’s Fight for Justice

Ivan Cantu, facing a looming execution date, maintains his innocence from behind the bars of the Allan B. Polunsky Unit prison in West Livingston, Texas. Convicted 24 years ago for two murders he claims he did not commit, Cantu clings to hope while awaiting a scheduled lethal injection on February 28.

Born in Dallas 50 years ago, Cantu was sentenced to death in October 2001 for the murder of his cousin, James Mosqueda, and Mosqueda’s fiancée, Amy Kitchen. Despite two postponements, Cantu’s execution date remains imminent, pending a last-minute appeal.

Speaking with Noticias Telemundo, Cantu expressed his desperation, insisting on his innocence. “I don’t want to die,” he asserted, lamenting the impending punishment for a crime he maintains he did not commit. Despite efforts to present evidence supporting his innocence, Cantu feels unheard by the judicial system.

Over the years, Cantu’s case has garnered public attention and support. His attorney, Gena Bunn, alongside private investigators and a podcast producer, claim to have unearthed evidence discrediting the prosecution’s case and raising doubts about Cantu’s guilt. Public figures, including Kim Kardashian, Martin Sheen, and Jane Fonda, as well as organizations like Amnesty International, have advocated for a revision of Cantu’s sentence.

Despite these efforts, Cantu’s plea for a fair trial remains unfulfilled. Recent appeals have been unsuccessful, with the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals rejecting requests for further review.

Cantu’s case is marred by allegations of a flawed trial, including inadequate legal representation and questionable witness testimony. Yet, these issues have yet to prompt a reevaluation of his conviction.

As Cantu awaits his fate, he reflects on the toll of his incarceration, spending up to 22 hours a day in his cell. The harsh conditions of death row weigh heavily on him, with limited contact with loved ones and restricted access to legal resources exacerbating his isolation.

Despite the challenges, Cantu remains determined to prove his innocence. He hopes for a new trial, believing it to be his only chance to vindicate himself and reunite with his family. As his execution date looms, Cantu’s fight for justice continues, a testament to his unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

Latin American Leaders Bukele and Milei Headline CPAC, Strengthening Ties with U.S. Conservatives

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Latin American Leaders Bukele and Milei Headline CPAC, Strengthening Ties with U.S. Conservatives

This week, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) will host Presidents Nayib Bukele of El Salvador and Javier Milei of Argentina, marking a significant convergence between right-leaning Latin American leaders and the Republican Party. The presence of these leaders underscores a growing alliance, with both strategic and political implications.

While some Republicans see this alliance as an opportunity to bolster support for the upcoming November elections, Latin American leaders view it as a chance to cultivate relationships with potential future U.S. leaders and exert influence over foreign policy decisions.

According to Eduardo Gamarra, a political science professor at Florida International University, the engagement with CPAC reflects efforts by Latin American leaders to establish rapport with potential future U.S. presidents. However, Gamarra cautions that aligning with a specific political faction carries risks, particularly if that faction loses influence.

The collaboration between the Latin American right and U.S. conservatives mirrors longstanding gatherings of left-wing political parties in Latin America, such as the Foro de São Paulo. While Democrats have not traditionally participated in such forums, some on the right have accused Democratic administrations of being influenced by leftist movements.

CPAC, once primarily a gathering for Republicans, has evolved into a platform dominated by former President Donald Trump and his allies. It has expanded internationally, with spinoff events in Brazil and other countries. The relationship between the Latin American right and Republicans was further solidified during Trump’s presidency, particularly through his close ties with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Bukele and Milei’s presence at CPAC reinforces the anti-left message embraced by Republicans, particularly in their efforts to appeal to Hispanic voters. Both leaders have garnered attention for their outspoken views and policies, with Bukele emphasizing his efforts to combat crime in El Salvador and Milei advocating for economic reforms in Argentina.

Despite criticism of some of Bukele’s tactics, such as packing courts with loyalists, his governance model has gained popularity in the region, especially amid rising gang violence. The Biden administration, while initially critical of Bukele’s actions, has shown a willingness to engage with him, particularly on issues related to migration.

Milei, known for his populist economic views, has sought to implement bold economic reforms in Argentina to address the country’s economic crisis.

Overall, the presence of Bukele and Milei at CPAC signifies a deepening relationship between the Latin American right and U.S. conservatives, with implications for both domestic and international politics.

Historic Milestone: Battleship Texas Set to Float Again by Early March

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Historic Milestone: Battleship Texas Set to Float Again by Early March

In an eagerly awaited development, the beloved floating museum, Battleship Texas, is on track to return to the water next month, promising a blend of historical restoration and modern upgrades.

The latest update from the Battleship Texas Foundation, posted earlier this week, highlighted significant progress in the restoration efforts. The focus has been on reinstalling mounts and hardware for two of the ship’s deck guns, with one already completed and the other scheduled for reinstallation. Additionally, maintenance tasks such as paint touch-ups and part refitting are underway.

The guns, classified as 5”/51 type, boast formidable specifications, firing five-inch diameter projectiles with a barrel length of over 21 feet. Originating in 1911, these guns played pivotal roles in naval battles, notably during World War II, such as the engagement at Wake Island in 1943.

Interestingly, historical records reveal initial skepticism from the ship’s captain about the effectiveness of these guns in 1919. However, by 1941, the vessel was armed with sixteen of these powerful weapons.

Despite the anticipation, the foundation clarified that visitors shouldn’t expect any live demonstrations: “no, we will not make the gun go bang.”

While the restoration progresses, the foundation aims for the ship’s return to water by early March, marking a significant milestone in the $60 million multi-year restoration project. Efforts include ensuring the vessel’s structural integrity and applying specialized coatings to combat corrosion.

However, despite the excitement of its impending return to water, the Battleship Texas won’t be setting sail independently anytime soon. The foundation clarified that the ship will remain stationary, with plans to settle it into a new berth near Galveston’s Pier 21 pushed to the latter half of 2025 or even 2026.

For enthusiasts eager to witness the ongoing restoration firsthand, limited spots are available for the upcoming dry-dock tour, offering a unique opportunity to explore the historic vessel before its relocation. Tickets are priced at $200 and can be purchased through the foundation’s website.

Border Protection Makes History with $117 Million Meth Seizure in Eagle Pass, TX, Largest Ever At at a Port of Entry

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Border Protection Makes History with $117 Million Meth Seizure in Eagle Pass, TX, Largest Ever At at a Port of Entry

In a significant enforcement action, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have seized a staggering six and a half tons of methamphetamine, valued at over $117 million, marking the largest meth seizure ever at a port of entry.

Director of Field Operations Donald Kusser, overseeing the Laredo Field Office, hailed the remarkable interception as a testament to CBP officers’ unwavering dedication to combatting the narcotics threat. He emphasized the critical role of CBP’s technological enforcement tools and the expertise of its officers in identifying and thwarting such substantial threats.

Special Agent in Charge Mark Dawson of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Houston echoed Kusser’s sentiments, underscoring the devastating impact of drug trafficking on communities. He praised the collaborative efforts between HSI Houston, HSI Eagle Pass, HSI Mexico City, and CBP, emphasizing that the record-breaking seizure had prevented an immense quantity of narcotics from reaching Houston streets, where they would have inflicted irreparable harm.

The seizure unfolded on Sunday, February 18, at the Camino Real International Bridge, when a CBP officer flagged a tractor-trailer transporting a purported shipment of drying agent for piglets for further inspection. Subsequent examinations, including canine detection and non-intrusive inspections, led CBP officers to uncover nearly 13,101 pounds of alleged methamphetamine concealed within the conveyance. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics amounted to a staggering $117.1 million.

CBP has seized the narcotics, while Homeland Security Investigations special agents have initiated an investigation into the seizure, aiming to dismantle the drug trafficking network responsible for this significant illicit shipment.

Former Talk Show Host Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Former Talk Show Host Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia

Renowned television personality Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with a form of dementia, as disclosed in a statement issued Thursday by her caretakers. The 59-year-old, known for her stint as a talk show host, received the diagnosis last year, following an extensive series of medical evaluations.

According to the statement, Williams was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, conditions that significantly impact behavior and language functions. This revelation comes amid heightened awareness of similar diagnoses, notably that of actor Bruce Willis, who also battles with this form of dementia.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare neurological disorder, primarily affects individuals in their 40s, 50s, and early 60s. The disease manifests through the shrinkage of specific brain regions responsible for regulating behavior and language, leading to personality changes and language impairments. Often misinterpreted as depression or bipolar disorder, diagnosing FTD can pose significant challenges and may require years of evaluation.

Johns Hopkins University cognitive scientist Brenda Rapp underscored the complexities associated with FTD, highlighting the frustration experienced by individuals grappling with behavioral changes that they may not fully comprehend.

FTD often coincides with primary progressive aphasia, a condition characterized by difficulties in language comprehension and expression. Individuals afflicted with this variant of FTD may struggle with finding words or understanding speech, further complicating daily communication.

The underlying causes of FTD remain elusive, although damage to neurons, the brain’s communication pathways, is a contributing factor. While individuals with a family history of dementia are at an increased risk, most FTD cases occur in individuals with no prior familial predisposition to the condition.

Although no cure exists for FTD, various therapeutic interventions aim to alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life. Speech therapy and physical therapy are commonly prescribed to address language and movement impairments, respectively. Additionally, medications such as antidepressants or drugs targeting Parkinson’s symptoms may be utilized to manage overlapping symptoms.

FTD is characterized by a variable progression, spanning anywhere from two to ten years. As symptoms worsen over time, individuals with FTD necessitate increasing levels of caregiving and nursing support. The financial strain on families coping with dementia can be substantial, with out-of-pocket expenses averaging $10,000 annually for health and long-term care, according to estimates from the Alzheimer’s Association.

U.S. Returns to Moon: Intuitive Machines’ Successful Landing Marks Milestone in Space Exploration

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
U.S. Returns to Moon: Intuitive Machines’ Successful Landing Marks Milestone in Space Exploration

In a historic achievement, a private lander marked the first U.S. touchdown on the moon in over half a century on Thursday. The groundbreaking moment, orchestrated by Intuitive Machines, however, was initially overshadowed by communication challenges, requiring flight controllers to swiftly rectify the situation for better contact.

Despite initial communication setbacks, Intuitive Machines confirmed the successful landing of its craft, known as the Odysseus lunar lander. While details regarding its precise location near the moon’s south pole were scarce, the company assured that the lander had touched down upright. The live webcast from the company’s Houston control center was concluded shortly after a lone, weak signal was received from the lander.

Mission director Tim Crain affirmed, “What we can confirm, without a doubt, is our equipment is on the surface of the moon,” as tension mounted in the control center. Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus echoed the sentiment, stating, “I know this was a nail-biter, but we are on the surface and we are transmitting. Welcome to the moon.”

Approximately two hours post-touchdown, data began streaming in, marking a significant breakthrough for the mission. The successful landing not only reinstated the U.S.’s presence on the lunar surface since NASA’s Apollo missions but also established Intuitive Machines as the first private entity to accomplish a lunar landing—a feat previously achieved by only five countries.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson hailed the achievement, tweeting, “Intuitive Machines ‘aced the landing of a lifetime.'”

The final moments leading to touchdown were fraught with tension as the lander’s laser navigation system malfunctioned. A last-minute switch to an experimental NASA laser system was deployed, necessitating an additional orbit around the moon to facilitate the change.

The mission’s target area, located approximately 186 miles shy of the moon’s south pole, held strategic importance due to its proximity to potential water resources. The Odysseus lander aimed for a relatively flat terrain surrounded by rugged features that could potentially harbor frozen water—a key aspect of lunar exploration.

Intuitive Machines’ successful lunar touchdown joins a series of recent endeavors by various nations and private entities seeking to explore and utilize lunar resources. With Japan’s recent lunar landing adding to earlier triumphs by Russia, the U.S., China, and India, the quest to unlock the moon’s potential continues.

The Odysseus lander, equipped with NASA’s tech and navigation experiments, also carried payloads from Columbia Sportswear, sculptor Jeff Koons, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, showcasing the diverse applications of lunar exploration beyond scientific research.

Mayor Whitmire Unveils Plans to Transform Houston’s Animal Welfare Landscape

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Mayor Whitmire Unveils Plans to Transform Houston’s Animal Welfare Landscape

On February 22nd, Houston PetSet, a nonprofit dedicated to combating animal homelessness in the city, convened a press conference at the Houston Crime Stoppers building in Midtown. The event centered on discussions regarding the current state of animal welfare in Houston, with notable speakers shedding light on various initiatives and challenges facing the community.

Mayor John Whitmire headlined the conference, outlining his administration’s commitment to elevating Houston as a leader in animal welfare. Addressing critical issues such as dealing with stray animals and managing increasing instances of animal aggression on city streets, Whitmire emphasized the necessity of garnering resources to support these efforts.

“We need to provide education and demonstrate public interest in caring for our animal companions,” stated Whitmire. “Subsequently, we require the necessary resources to enact meaningful change.”

Highlighting the financial constraints faced by the city, Whitmire proposed the possibility of consolidating Harris County and Houston’s animal shelters to alleviate some fiscal challenges. He suggested transforming the potentially merged shelter into a nonprofit entity, a move he believes would galvanize community support for animal welfare initiatives.

“We could establish a top-tier shelter by transforming it into a nonprofit,” remarked Whitmire. “The public’s affinity for their pets could drive substantial backing for such endeavors.”

Prior to Whitmire’s address, Tama Lundquist and Tena Lundquist Faust, co-owners of Houston PetSet, provided an overview of the city’s current animal welfare landscape. Data presented indicated that Houston lags behind other major cities like Dallas and San Antonio in terms of animal control budgets and resources.

“Despite the challenges, there’s optimism for progress,” expressed Lundquist. “We’re encouraged by Mayor Whitmire’s dedication to prioritizing animal welfare.”

During the Q&A segment, attendees engaged in discussions with Whitmire, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, and Houston PetSet representatives on various aspects of animal welfare. Topics ranged from the possibility of implementing spay and neuter ordinances to addressing the surge in aggressive animal incidents amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re witnessing a concerning rise in aggressive animal behavior,” acknowledged Gonzalez. “While it’s a shared challenge, we’re committed to finding solutions.”

As the dialogue continues, Houston PetSet and city officials underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding the welfare of animals across the city.

Houston Rockets Owner Tilman Fertitta Eyes Bringing NHL Franchise to City

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Houston Rockets Owner Tilman Fertitta Eyes Bringing NHL Franchise to City

Tilman Fertitta, the owner of the NBA’s Houston Rockets, is reportedly in active discussions with the National Hockey League (NHL) about potentially bringing a professional hockey team to the city.

Fertitta, a Galveston native and prominent figure in the hospitality industry who also owns Landry’s Inc. and Golden Nugget casinos, revealed to Bloomberg News that talks with the NHL have recently intensified. His ambitious plan involves establishing an NHL team that would play in downtown Houston, alongside the Rockets and the MLB’s Houston Astros.

“We are talking to the NHL, but it’s got to be good for both of us,” Fertitta stated, as reported by Bloomberg News on Wednesday. “We just know that when there’s a concert downtown, how it activates downtown, we know what the Astros do for downtown, we know what even soccer does for downtown.”

Requests for comment from Fertitta and his affiliated companies, as well as from the NHL and the office of Houston Mayor John Whitmire, were not immediately returned on Wednesday afternoon.

While Fertitta’s aspirations for an NHL team in Houston gather momentum, the city’s previous mayor, Sylvester Turner, expressed support for the idea last spring. Turner’s spokesperson emphasized Houston’s status as a “sports town,” noting the positive impact professional sports franchises have on civic pride and enthusiasm.

Although Houston has never hosted an NHL franchise, it boasts a history of professional hockey with the Houston Aeros. The first iteration of the Aeros, competing in the former World Hockey Association from 1972 to 1978 under the leadership of hockey legend Gordie Howe, clinched two league championships. Subsequently, a minor league version of the Aeros operated in the International Hockey League and American Hockey League from 1994 to 2013.

Fertitta revealed to Bloomberg News that his interest in bringing an NHL team to Houston dates back to his acquisition of the Rockets seven years ago. He expressed willingness to explore both the possibility of securing an expansion franchise and acquiring an existing team to relocate to Houston, underscoring his commitment to broadening the city’s sports landscape.

#FugitiveFriday – February 23, 2024

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
#FugitiveFriday – February 23, 2024

In an effort to keep our neighborhoods safe, Crime Stoppers of Houston and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are seeking the public’s help locating the following individuals that have active Felony and/or Misdemeanor Warrants.

Crime Stoppers may pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the location and arrest of the suspects featured. Information may be reported by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app. All tipsters remain anonymous. Only tips and calls DIRECTLY TO Crime Stoppers are anonymous and eligible for a cash reward.

All warrants are active at the time this press release was created and is subject to change. Crime Stoppers of Houston and this news organization are not making any legal claims that this is the most current legal status.

The following individuals all have active warrants as of February 22, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

CRYSTAL RENEE AVERYW/F      02-08-95      5’00”/110 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1847100
POSS W/INT DEL CS PG1 200-400G
Last known location: Rye Texas
TRAVEON DAYSHON BOGANB/M      02-27-96      6’02”/165 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1850706, 1850708, 1841643
ASSAULT OF PREGNANT PERSON   
UNL POSS FIREARM BY FELON    
UNAUTH USE OF VEHICLE        
Last known location: Houston Texas
JULIO JORGE MONZONW/M      04-09-60      4’11”/130 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1853807
CONTINUE SEX AB/CHILD
Last known location: Katy Texas
MARCUS STEPHEN MUELLERW/M      01-30-82      5’11”/145 Lbs.      Bln/Blu
Warrant #: 1844082
UNAUTH USE OF VEHICLE
Last known location: League City Texas
ANDREE JOSEPH FORBES NELSONB/M      04-14-87      5’06”/145 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1853517
THEFT <$2,500 2/MORE PREV CONV
Last known location: Katy Texas
WILLIAM LEE PARKERW/M      12-22-72      5’11”/140 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1853145
CREDIT/DEBIT CARD ABUSE
Last known location: Deer Park Texas
AMILLYA DEMETRIA RATCLIFFB/F      06-03-03      5’07”/154 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1804516
PROB VIOL EVADING ARREST/DETENTION W/VEH
Last known location: Houston Texas
CASSANDRA MARI RODRIGUEZW/F      02-23-89      5’04”/156 Lbs.      Blk/Bro
Warrant #: 1776249
DWI W/CHILD <15 YOA W/2 PRIORS
Last known location: Pasadena Texas
BRITTANY ANN SPRADLINW/F      09-28-92      5’05”/120 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1815758, 1841458, 1842430
POSS CS PG 1/1-B >=4G<200G   
BURGLARY OF HABITATION
FRAUD/USE/POSS ID INFO-LESS 5
Last known location: League City Texas
WALETHA LYNETT WILLIAMSB/F      05-01-83      5’04”/150 Lbs.      Bro/Bro
Warrant #: 1797772
CREDIT/DEBIT CARD ABUSE
Last known location: Houston Texas

Union Pacific and Trees For Houston Launch Collaborative Tree Planting Initiative in Fifth Ward

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Union Pacific and Trees For Houston Launch Collaborative Tree Planting Initiative in Fifth Ward

A significant step towards enhancing environmental sustainability and improving air quality was taken as Union Pacific Railroad and Trees For Houston joined forces to plant new trees at Julia C. Hester House in Fifth Ward. This collaborative effort marks a promising beginning in the quest to foster greener, healthier communities throughout the city.

Sherea McKenzie, the executive director of Hester House, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the long-term benefits it will bring to Fifth Ward residents. “The beautiful trees planted here will provide shade and cleaner air for the Fifth Ward residents we serve for generations to come,” said McKenzie. “We’re pleased Trees For Houston chose our historic site to kick off its collaboration with Union Pacific.”

The tree planting event saw the active participation of volunteers from Union Pacific, Trees For Houston, and the local community, who came together to plant 20 trees on the grounds of Hester House. With a legacy spanning over 80 years, Hester House has been instrumental in providing essential services focused on youth development and workforce training in Fifth Ward.

Beth Whited, President of Union Pacific, expressed optimism about the project, highlighting the manifold benefits of planting and maintaining trees in urban areas. “We look forward to seeing these new trees grow tall and strong thanks to the dedicated work of Trees For Houston,” said Whited. “We believe planting and maintaining trees improves air quality and brings natural beauty to neighborhoods across the city.”

This collaborative endeavor signifies the commencement of a two-year partnership between Union Pacific and Trees For Houston. The primary objective of this collaboration is to augment Houston’s urban canopy cover, thereby fostering cleaner air, cooler temperatures, and aesthetically enhanced neighborhoods for city residents.

Barry Ward, Executive Director of Trees For Houston, underscored the significance of the partnership in expanding green spaces across Houston communities. “This collaboration allows us to make an even greater impact in communities needing more green space,” said Ward. “We are excited to partner with Union Pacific to expand our tree planting work across more Houston neighborhoods.”

The partnership operates under Union Pacific’s Community Ties Giving Program, which allocated over $700,000 to Houston non-profit organizations in 2023. Local grants are distributed based on the program’s four priority cause areas: safety, workforce development, community spaces, and environmental sustainability. The grant application period for 2024 opens in April, offering further opportunities for community-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing Houston’s social and environmental landscape.

1...200201202...706Page 201 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