Space Center Houston will celebrate Sally’s Night on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., marking the 42nd anniversary of Dr. Sally Ride’s groundbreaking spaceflight aboard NASA’s STS-7 mission.
Ride became the first American woman in space on June 18, 1983, forever changing the course of human spaceflight history.
A Tribute to Inclusion and Discovery
Guests are invited to reflect on Ride’s legacy and her message that “space is for everyone,” honoring her role as both a trailblazing woman and a gender-expansive individual in science. Her mission aboard the space shuttle Challenger remains one of NASA’s most celebrated milestones.
Houston’s ‘BeSomeone’ Artist Joins Celebration
Space Center Houston is partnering with the anonymous BeSomeone artist, known for the iconic graffiti over I-45, to create a live mural inspired by Ride’s message: “Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity.” The artwork will reflect Houston’s vital role in space exploration.
R&B artist Chris Brown appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London to enter a plea in connection to an alleged assault that took place at a nightclub in February 2023.
The 36-year-old is accused of attacking Abraham Diaw with a bottle at Tape nightclub in Mayfair.
Court Appearance with Co-Defendant
Brown arrived in a dark blue suit, walking silently past photographers. He appeared alongside co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, 38, for a plea and trial preparation hearing. Both are U.S. nationals.
Details of the Incident
According to Manchester Magistrates’ Court, Diaw was struck multiple times with a bottle at the bar, then chased and beaten in another section of the club. The altercation allegedly took place on February 19, 2023.
Arrest and Bail Conditions
Brown was arrested in Manchester on May 15 after flying into the UK on a private jet. He was released from prison on May 21 after paying a £5 million security fee as part of his conditional bail.
Continuing Tour Amid Legal Trouble
Despite the charges, Brown has continued performing, including a concert in Cardiff. Shortly after his release, he referenced his tour in an Instagram story, writing: “FROM THE CAGE TO THE STAGE!!! BREEZYBOWL.”
For more on this story, stay tuned for more updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.
Texas quietly halted funding for its state border wall program, leaving only 8% of the ambitious project completed despite an expenditure exceeding $3 billion. Announced four years ago by Gov. Greg Abbott, the initiative aimed to make Texas the first state to build its own border wall.
The decision to defund the project was made without public debate in the final hours of the recent legislative session, leaving the future of the state wall uncertain. The completed sections are scattered and primarily located on large rural ranches, areas where illegal border crossings are less common and migrants can easily bypass the barriers, as reported by The Texas Tribune last year. The Tribune also estimated that completing the wall would take 30 years and cost over $20 billion.
State leaders have suggested the federal government might take over the effort. However, even during former President Donald Trump’s first term, when wall construction was a top priority, his administration completed only 21 miles in Texas—roughly one-third of what the state managed in four years.
In early June, lawmakers approved $3.4 billion for ongoing border security efforts, none of which will be allocated to the wall. State Sen. Joan Huffman, the lead budget writer, confirmed that these funds will instead go primarily to the Department of Public Safety and the Texas National Guard, supporting Operation Lone Star, Abbott’s initiative for apprehending migrants. Huffman, a Republican from Houston, stated that border security should ideally be a federal responsibility.
Andrew Mahaleris, Abbott’s spokesman, indicated that the Trump administration’s efforts at the southern border have allowed Texas to adjust its own strategies, without specifically commenting on the border wall program. He affirmed that the military and public safety departments would continue their border-related missions and that Texas would maintain a strong presence with federal partners to address illegal immigration. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick did not respond to requests for comment.
The Texas Facilities Commission, tasked with building the wall, had aimed to construct at least 100 miles by the end of 2026. However, with only 83 miles left to complete from previous funding, and 65 miles already finished, work will continue only on segments currently under construction, with no new projects starting. Commission Executive Director Mike Novak did not respond to interview requests.
The border wall was a key policy achievement touted by Governor Abbott, who initiated the costly border crackdown during President Joe Biden’s Democratic administration. He held multiple press events promoting the 30-foot wall, which costs about $28 million per mile. Early in its construction, Abbott solicited donations for the wall via his official website, raising over $55 million, though the crowdfunding link was later removed.
The state keeps wall locations confidential, but a Tribune investigation last year revealed it is not a continuous structure but rather fragmented sections across six counties between Del Rio and Brownsville. A major impediment has been landowners who have refused to allow construction on their property, as nearly all Texas land bordering the Rio Grande is privately owned, and the Legislature prohibited the use of eminent domain for the wall. In November, a third of approached landowners declined to host the wall, and by March, 24% of property owners, representing 41 miles of desired wall route, still refused. A Republican state senator’s bill to allow eminent domain for the wall died in committee.
Border security experts noted that landowner resistance has caused construction to be dictated by land availability rather than strategic effectiveness. Most segments were built in rural ranch areas, whereas experts believe barriers would be more effective in urban areas where people could more easily disappear.
The federal government’s plans for continued wall construction are uncertain, and the Department of Homeland Security has not responded to requests for comment. While Trump has signaled that deporting undocumented immigrants is a higher priority for his second administration, his administration did award the first wall contract of his second term in March to build seven miles in Hidalgo County. Both Democratic and Republican administrations have used eminent domain to acquire land for border walls, though this process can take over two years.
Illegal border crossings have significantly declined since peaking in late 2023, with fewer than 13,000 monthly crossings since February, a drop of over 90% from two years prior.
Concerns regarding the efficacy and cost-benefit of the expensive state wall have been raised by Republican lawmakers. In 2023, before voting for $1.5 billion for the wall, Sen. Bob Hall questioned whether the Legislature was “spending a whole lot of money to give the appearance of doing something rather than taking the problem on to actually solve it.” Similarly, Republican Sen. Charles Perry likened endless spending on border infrastructure to being on a “hamster wheel,” stating that “At some point this state must draw a line in the sand.”
Judge Erika Ramirez made history in 2023 as the first Latina and woman elected to Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 8. As she seeks reelection, her unique approach to justice continues breaking barriers while building bridges in the community.
“I’m reminded with every accomplishment that I have, there have been numerous Latinos and Latinas who have put in the work, the blood, sweat, and tears for me to be able to get to the spot. I’m incredibly grateful to them,” Judge Ramirez reflects on her groundbreaking role in an exclusive interview with Que Onda Magazine.
Judge Erika Ramirez with her husband Mauro, and their two rescue dogs, Paquita and Jalapeño.
From Social Work to the Bench
Judge Ramirez’s path wasn’t traditional. Raised by two social workers, she grew up hearing stories of public service and advocacy. Her parents’ dedication inspired her career path, leading her to work as a caseworker assistant in the district attorney’s domestic violence division.
“I saw some amazing attorneys. I saw amazing advocacy. I saw passion, folks who cared. That was it, the folks who cared. And it lit a fire in me,” she recalls. That fire led her to law school and eventually to the judiciary.
Creating a Respectful Courtroom
Serving Harris County’s 4.5 million residents across cases involving DWI, assault, theft, and other misdemeanors, Judge Ramirez has witnessed first-time offenders crying in her courtroom. She understands their fear.
“If you come into the Criminal Court system, especially if you come into Criminal Court at law #8, you are going to be respected in this process. I don’t care who you are. What alleged crime has been committed? Everyone deserves to be respected and be given a fair process,” she emphasizes.
Her approach focuses on constitutional rights and human dignity. “We all make mistakes. We want you to feel comfortable with coming through this process. If it’s being taken accountability, moving on and doing better, that’s what we want.”
The Power of Representation
As the first Latina judge in her position, Judge Ramirez carries the weight of representation. She recalls her law school experience: “I had a classmate whose grandfather’s portrait was on the wall, and I knew he belonged there because his grandpa was an attorney. His dad was an attorney, but who was I?”
The journey to belonging took time. “But I learned and I grew, but I did belong there and I had an impact to make.” Now, she hopes her presence inspires others: “I really hope that folks who see me think they can do it, and then I want them to surpass me. I really do. Because we all belong at the table.”
A Legacy of Resilience
Judge Ramirez’s commitment to dignity stems from deeply personal experiences. Her father was diagnosed with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) at age 19 and sent to live in Carville, Louisiana, separated from his family of 12 siblings.
“Keep in mind a small town 19 year old being sent to live in a different state with no family,” she describes. “Without due process, right. There was no cure at the time, so he had to endure experimental medications.”
Rather than becoming bitter, her parents transformed struggle into advocacy. Her father became a global advocate and licensed social worker. “They turned something that could have been anger into advocacy,” Judge Ramirez explains. “That struggle that my parents have been through… he still came out with love.”
Innovative Approaches
Since taking office, Judge Ramirez has reduced case backlogs, handled the most misdemeanor trials among all 16 courts, and been elected by colleagues to leadership as presiding judge.
Her approach to youthful offenders stands out. She personally follows up with young probationers through Zoom calls. She’s helped secure housing for one probationer and celebrated another’s GED completion. “For him to get that GED is… a piece of paper that can open up a lot of doors.”
Building Upon a SuccessfulTerm
Judge Ramirez’s reelection campaign focuses on expanding specialized justice programs. Her primary goal is helping Harris County create a specialty domestic violence court.
“Domestic violence impacts every single one of us,” she emphasizes, noting that “if a woman is murdered, it’s most likely done by the intimate partner.”
She also addresses Harris County’s DWI crisis, learning that “Texas accounts for 1/3 of the DWI fatalities in the entire nation.” While offenders “never had the intent to hurt anybody,” the reality is “you can kill a family.”
A Call to Unity and Action
Judge Ramirez’s message to the Latino community emphasizes unity: “We need to support each other… And if we support each other? We would be unstoppable.”
Her call extends to voting, inspired by the Hernandez v. Texas Supreme Court decision that fought systematic exclusion of Mexican Americans from jury service. “These people fought for us. And we owe it to them… to vote,” she urges. “Your voice is one voice. It matters. Every single voice matters.”
Judge Ramirez’s judicial philosophy is clear: “I think my approach is to be open minded… I’m willing to listen. Sometimes folks just want to be heard… I’m going to treat you fairly.”
As she seeks reelection, Judge Erika Ramirez continues ensuring Harris County’s criminal justice system serves everyone with dignity and fairness. “Everyone deserves to be respected and be given a fair process,” she concludes. “We all deserve that.”
For more on leaders of Houston’s Latino community like Judge Ramirez, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.
Juneteenth, now celebrated as a federal holiday, marks the day—June 19, 1865—when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
Biden described Juneteenth as “a day of profound weight and power,” honoring both the suffering and resilience of Black Americans. The federal recognition came after decades of grassroots advocacy, led in part by Opal Lee, a retired teacher from Texas known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.”
Galveston’s Enduring Legacy
Galveston mural honors the historic day where union soldiers arrived on the island and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans. Credit: Indira Zaldivar
As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston holds a powerful role in this national story. On that historic day, Union Major General Gordon Granger read General Order No. 3 from the steps of Ashton Villa, proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas. Today, Galveston honors this legacy with reenactments, educational programs, and cultural events, keeping the memory and meaning of Juneteenth alive for new generations.
Houston Celebrates Juneteenth in a Big Way
Houston, home to one of the largest African American populations in the U.S., offers a rich variety of Juneteenth events for all ages and interests. From educational workshops and dance parties to family festivals and parades, the city is embracing the spirit of liberation and community.
Here are some of the highlights:
1. Children’s Museum Houston | Juneteenth Celebration | 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Activities include Juneteenth crafts, a DJ dance party at 3:30 p.m., and drumming at 5:30 p.m. Location: 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
2. Emancipation Park | Juneteenth Family Fun Day | 12–4 p.m. Live poetry, food trucks, cultural exhibits, and a pool day celebration. Location: 3018 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004
3. Reedy Chapel | Juneteenth Emancipation March & Service | 12–8 p.m. Includes family activities, a community march, and an evening service. Location: 2015 Broadway Ave J, Galveston, TX 77550
4. Skylab Social Bar & Lounge | Juneteenth Jam | 5–8 p.m. Celebrate with music and drinks. Location: 4112 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
5. Galveston | Juneteenth Parade & Picnic | Parade at 3 p.m. Parade along Ball Street followed by a community picnic. Location: Ball St from 26th to 41st, Galveston, TX 77550
6. Freedmen’s Town | Juneteenth 160 Festival | 1–8 p.m. Yoga, art workshops, STEM activities, live music, and a dance party with Soul Control. Location: Fourth Ward, Houston, TX 77019
7. Midtown & Museum Park | Juneteenth Almeda Bar Crawl | 3–8 p.m. Bar hop with actor Kendrick Sampson as a special guest. Start: 4501 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77004
8. Giant Texas Distillers | HBCU Social Exchange | 6 p.m. Networking and socializing in honor of HBCU pride. Location: 5610 Clinton Dr, Houston, TX 77020
9. Institute of Contemporary Dance | Juneteenth Dance Workshop | 11 a.m. Celebrate freedom through movement. Location: 1302 Houston Ave, Suite 3000, Houston, TX 77007
10. Spring Street Studios | Echoes of Emancipation: Juneteenth Fest | 7 p.m. Art, music, and community conversations on liberation. Location: 1824 Spring Street #4056, Houston, TX 77007
Celebrating Freedom Together
Whether you’re learning about the historical significance in Galveston or attending vibrant events across Houston, Juneteenth is a day to honor the journey toward freedom, reflect on our shared history, and celebrate the cultural contributions of Black Americans. From parades and poetry to dance and dialogue, Juneteenth continues to inspire generations to stand for equality and justice.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Juneteenth’s weather is going to look like a typical summer day: Hot with a small chance for a shower or thunderstorm.
We’re in for another steamy morning with temperatures starting in the upper 70s to low 80s. Temperatures are expected to warm to around 90 by noontime and peak out around 94 degrees in the afternoon. That hot, humid air could yield a few more showers and thunderstorms through the early evening.
When can we expect some drier weather?
Over the weekend a heat ridge glides by our part of Texas to push rain chances to just 10% both Saturday and Sunday. This hot, mostly dry pattern will be short-lived as another slug of Gulf moisture rolls in next week to bring back daily downpours.
Any triple-digit days on the horizon?
Not at this time. However, triple-digit heat indices will occur every day this week. Houston’s first 100-degree day is typically in the second half of July.
Will the rain chances continue next week?
Yep. In fact, rain chances will likely climb again next week as tropical moisture flows in around a major heat ridge over the northeastern part of the country. This type of pattern often produces funnel clouds and waterspouts in the morning near the coast.
What’s happening in the tropics?
At this time, the Atlantic basin is filled with a Saharan dust cloud, limiting tropical development and bringing a slightly hazy sky to Southeast Texas. Meanwhile, Hurricane Erick has rapidly intensified off the Pacific coast of Mexico. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.
Fort Bend County Judge KP George has officially left the Democratic Party to join the Republican Party, a move that coincides with ongoing legal troubles. George, who is facing felony and misdemeanor charges, announced the switch at a press conference, citing a disconnect between the Democratic Party and the values of local residents.
Shift in County Power
George’s defection gives Republicans a 3-2 majority on the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court, flipping the balance of power. Republican Party President Bobby Eberle welcomed the change, calling for “fair and balanced voting maps” to replace those drawn by Democrats in 2021.
Why George Switched
George said he could no longer align with a party he described as promoting a “corrupt and radical ideology.” He claimed the Republican Party better represents “faith, family and freedom,” and announced he will run for reelection in 2026 as a Republican.
Criminal Charges and Allegations
George faces a third-degree felony charge for alleged money laundering between $30,000 and $150,000 in early 2019, shortly after taking office. He claims the money was a legal reimbursement of a personal campaign loan and accused prosecutors of weaponizing the legal system.
In a separate case, George was indicted in 2024 for misrepresentation of identity. He’s accused of conspiring with former staffer Taral Patel to post fake racist comments on social media during his 2022 campaign to manipulate voter sentiment. Patel has pleaded guilty, but George maintains his innocence.
Public and Political Reaction
Reactions have been mixed. Republican Commissioner Andy Meyers pledged continued collaboration, while Democratic Judge Dexter McCoy called George “morally corrupt,” accusing him of betraying the public trust for personal gain.
George’s legal future and political prospects remain uncertain. He may face primary opposition in 2026, and the outcome of his court cases could heavily influence his chances of remaining in office.
Shakira took to Instagram to announce the new date for her San Antonio concert, which was previously canceled due to technical setbacks “beyond” her control.
“I’ll be with my pack in San Antonio this July 5th to give you the show you deserve!” she wrote.
The Colombian global superstar will perform at the Alamodome in San Antonio on July 5.
“Lo prometido es deuda. Estaré en San Antonio este 5 de julio para cumplirle a mi manada como se merece,” she wrote saying that she will fulfill the promises made to her pack as deserved.
Shakira in Houston
On Tuesday, Shakira wrapped up a successful two-night, sold-out run at Houston’s Toyota Center on Tuesday, as part of her world tour.
From the timeless “Hips Don’t Lie,” now celebrating its 20th anniversary, to “Antología” from her breakthrough “Pies Descalzos” 90s era, and her latest empowerment anthem “Soltera,” the 48-year-old star had the crowd dancing, crying, and howling in unison.
“Gracias por ser esa manada fiel que toda loba necesita,” she told fans during the opening night in Houston, thanking her loyal pack despite tour setbacks.
Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” World Tour
“See you soon, Texas!” she wrote in her post, bidding farewell as she heads to her next performance on June 22 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Shakira is currently in the midst of her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran”world tour across the United States and Latin America, with the final show scheduled for Nov. 16 in Lima, Peru.
Former President Joe Biden is set to join a Juneteenth celebration at the historic Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Galveston, Texas, The Associated Press reported. His attendance was confirmed by a source familiar with the plans, though not authorized to speak publicly.
A Key Role in Juneteenth History
In 2021, Biden signed the law making Juneteenth a federal holiday. The day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston and announced the end of slavery—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Galveston mural honors Juneteenth as the island is where the original freedom order was read to enslaved people in 1865. Credit: Indira Zaldivar.
Historic Church Hosts the Event
Thursday’s event will take place at Reedy Chapel AME Church, the oldest African Methodist Episcopal church still operating in Texas. It is one of the historic sites where the original freedom order was read to enslaved people in 1865.
