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Frida Festival Celebrates 20 Years of Art, Culture & Community

Que Onda Editorial
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Frida Festival Celebrates 20 Years of Art, Culture & Community

By: Blanca Beltran-Robinson

Houston’s iconic Frida Festival is celebrating two decades of honoring the life and legacy of legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. What began in 2005 in the East End has grown into a vibrant, citywide celebration of Latin American culture, creativity, and community.

Founded by Houston artist Lizbeth Ortiz, the festival was born from a desire to create space for artistic expression and cultural pride. With support from fellow artist Iris Contreras, Ortiz helped grow the event through the East End Studio Gallery, producing hundreds of exhibitions and empowering local artists.

Today, the Frida Festival is a signature event of MuXerHTX, an all-female artist collective dedicated to uplifting underrepresented voices in the arts. Their mission: to foster collaboration, celebrate diversity, and promote the work of women artists through festivals, exhibitions, and workshops.

Courtesy: Alex Barber

Over the years, the festival has transformed venues like Hardy & Nance Studios, Discovery Green, and the Navigation Esplanade into colorful hubs of music, dance, and visual art. From 2018 to 2024, it welcomed over 30,000 attendees, becoming a beloved tradition for Houstonians and visitors alike.

“The festival serves as a platform to uplift our community, celebrating the strength of our spirit and the richness of our culture,” said Frida Festival curator Lizbeth Ortiz.

This year’s 20th anniversary celebration will take place July 19–20 at Karbach Brewery (2032 Karbach St, Houston, TX 77092), featuring live performances, art markets, cultural showcases, and more.

More than a tribute, the Frida Festival is a platform for education, empowerment, and unity — keeping Frida’s fearless spirit alive through every brushstroke, beat, and performance.

Learn more: www.FridaFestival.org

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1328

Edward Saenz
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¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1328

Isolated showers and storms possible Thursday and Friday

ABC13 Houston
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Isolated showers and storms possible Thursday and Friday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Saharan haze is moving out Thursday and as tropical moisture rolls in, that’ll bring the chance for a few showers and storms throughout the day.

It’s a warm and muggy Thursday morning with temperatures in the upper 70s or low 80s. The warm start is thanks to a few more clouds that have rolled in overnight, few of them producing light rain near the Brazos River and College Station. Rain chances climb as we head into the second half of the day with isolated showers and storms possible in the afternoon and evening hours. No severe weather expected, but some of these storms could produce locally heavy rains, thunder and lightning. Besides the rain, it will be another warm and summery day with highs reaching the mid 90s.

Will there still be rain around during the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

We should have a rain-free sky for fireworks time! Most of the rain showers that form during the day should fizzle out quickly after sunset. Temperatures in the evening are expected to be warm in the mid 80s, and of course the humidity will be high.

Isn’t more Saharan dust on the way?

Yes! The second dust cloud of the week is moving in late on July 4th and the day after. This Saharan dust will lead to a hazy gray sky and a reduction in air quality. Those who are sensitive to this particulate matter may notice allergies and asthma flaring up.

What’s in store for the rest of the weekend?

By Sunday the haze is moving out and more tropical moisture will start pushing in. Temperatures will climb into the upper 90s. The moisture moving in from the east is good enough for only a 10% chance of a shower, but those rain odds will increase in the 30-40% range for Monday and Tuesday.

What’s happening in the tropics?

We are watching a zone of potential development near Florida as a weak front stalls out just offshore from the Gulf Coast and the East Coast. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Lawyers Say Abrego Garcia Suffered Abuse in Salvadoran Prison

Que Onda Editorial
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Lawyers Say Abrego Garcia Suffered Abuse in Salvadoran Prison

Kilmar Abrego Garcia endured severe mistreatment during his detention at El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison, according to a new legal filing by his attorneys. They describe beatings, psychological abuse, and inhumane living conditions.

Claims of Torture and Deprivation

In a court filing Wednesday, Abrego Garcia’s lawyers detailed how he was allegedly beaten, deprived of food, and forced to kneel for hours. They say he was stripped, issued prison clothes under duress, and confined in overcrowded cells with bright lights kept on constantly.

Detention Despite Court Order

Abrego Garcia was sent to El Salvador in March despite a 2019 U.S. court order barring his deportation due to fears of persecution. The Trump administration had previously labeled him an MS-13 gang member, a claim he denies.

Upon arrival at CECOT, prison officials reportedly told detainees, “Whoever enters here doesn’t leave.” According to his attorneys, Salvadoran officials later recognized he was not gang-affiliated and separated him from other prisoners.

Health Decline and Continued Legal Fight

During his first two weeks at CECOT, Abrego Garcia allegedly lost 31 pounds. He was later moved to a Santa Ana prison, where his lawyers say he was often hidden from visitors.

Now back in the U.S., Abrego Garcia faces human smuggling charges in Tennessee, where he has pleaded not guilty. Federal prosecutors are seeking his deportation to a third country if he is released on bail.

Lawyers Seek to Block Deportation

Abrego Garcia’s attorneys have asked a Maryland judge to block his deportation without proper notice. They warn he could face persecution or torture in countries like Libya, South Sudan, or Eritrea.

“Without knowing the destination, Mr. Abrego Garcia cannot prepare a defense against removal,” his lawyers argued.

For more on Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Liverpool’s Diogo Jota and Brother Killed in Spain Car Crash

Edward Saenz
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Liverpool’s Diogo Jota and Brother Killed in Spain Car Crash

Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva died in a car accident near Zamora, Spain, police confirmed Thursday.

Lamborghini Crash Claims Two Lives

The crash happened shortly after midnight when their Lamborghini veered off the road and caught fire. Both men, aged 28 and 25, were found dead at the scene. Investigators are looking into whether a blown tire during an attempted overtake caused the accident.

Tragic Scene Unfolds on Isolated Highway

Andre Silva, Jota’s brother.

Officials said the vehicle was incinerated, and the brothers died inside. Firefighters responded as the blaze spread to nearby vegetation. Spanish media showed images of tire marks leading off the road and the burnt wreckage several meters away.

Soccer Community Mourns a Devastating Loss

Jota, a Portugal national team player and Liverpool star since 2020, recently married Rute Cardoso and was a father of three. He helped Portugal win the Nations League last month. Silva played for Portuguese club Penafiel.

Liverpool FC expressed heartbreak over the tragedy, offering support to the family and asking for privacy. The Portuguese Soccer Federation called it an “irreparable loss,” praising Jota as both a talented player and beloved teammate.

Tributes from Around the World

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed condolences, calling it a sad day for soccer and sport. Reactions also came from Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James, and Rafael Nadal.

Cristiano Ronaldo said, “It doesn’t make any sense,” recalling his recent time with Jota on the national team and sending love to his family.

Moments of Silence Planned at Matches

The Premier League and UEFA shared their condolences, announcing moments of silence at upcoming matches, including Euro 2025 games, to honor Jota and Silva’s memory.

For more on this tragic story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Over 175 Democrats Back NAACP Lawsuit to Stop Education Department Overhaul

Que Onda Editorial
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Over 175 Democrats Back NAACP Lawsuit to Stop Education Department Overhaul

More than 175 Democratic lawmakers are filing an amicus brief supporting the NAACP’s lawsuit aimed at blocking the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

Warren, Raskin, and Scott Lead Legal Challenge

Senator Elizabeth Warren, along with Reps. Jamie Raskin, Bobby Scott, and Rosa DeLauro, is leading the 15-page brief. They argue President Trump lacks the authority to abolish the department without congressional approval. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and over 150 other House Democrats also signed on.

Lawsuit Claims Overhaul Violates the Constitution

The NAACP’s lawsuit, filed in March, claims that slashing nearly half of the department’s workforce and cutting grant programs violates the Constitution’s separation of powers. This week, the NAACP and other education groups requested an injunction to stop the administration’s pause of more than $6 billion in education funding ahead of the school year.

Democrats Warn of Harm to Students

In statements, Warren and Raskin condemned the administration’s actions, saying dismantling the department threatens students’ right to a free public education and undermines democracy. Rep. Joe Neguse warned that closing the department would remove vital support for millions of students and teachers.

Ongoing Legal Battle and Future Supreme Court Decision

Lower courts have already blocked parts of the overhaul. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on whether firing nearly 2,000 Education Department employees was legal. Education Secretary Linda McMahon claims essential services will continue, possibly through other agencies.

Part of Warren’s Save Our Schools Campaign

The legal challenge is part of Warren’s broader Save Our Schools initiative, launched after Trump’s executive order targeting the Education Department. Warren and other lawmakers continue to investigate how staffing cuts and policy changes could harm students and borrowers.

Education Advocates Speak Out

Rep. Frederica Wilson, a former principal, said dismantling the department would “bring a shock to this nation,” emphasizing that strong schools are vital to the country’s success.

For more on the Department of Education, follow every update with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Shooting in Chicago’s River North Leaves 4 Dead, 14 Injured

Indira Zaldivar
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Deadly Shooting in Chicago’s River North Leaves 4 Dead, 14 Injured

A mass shooting late Wednesday night in Chicago’s River North neighborhood left four people dead and 14 others wounded, according to police.

Gunfire Erupts Outside During Album Release Party

The violence occurred on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue when a vehicle pulled up and at least one shooter opened fire on a crowd gathered outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge. The event was an album release party for rapper Mello Buckzz.

Suspects Flee the Scene

The suspects fled in the vehicle immediately after the shooting. As of Thursday morning, no arrests had been made.

Victims Mostly Young Adults

Among the victims were two men and two women who died, and 14 others who suffered gunshot wounds. Three of the wounded remain in critical condition. Most victims were in their 20s and 30s.

Citywide Crime Trends Show Decline

Despite this tragedy, overall shootings in Chicago have dropped 39% and murders are down 32% compared to the same time last year, according to the city’s latest crime statistics.

For more on this story, follow every update with us on Que Onda Magazine.

ERCOT Ramps Up Emergency Power Ahead of Record-Breaking Texas Summer

Edward Saenz
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ERCOT Ramps Up Emergency Power Ahead of Record-Breaking Texas Summer

As Texas braces for another scorching summer, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is preparing for what could be a record-breaking surge in electricity demand—forecasting an unprecedented peak of 87.5 gigawatts. That figure would surpass the previous record of 85.5 GW set in August 2023, driven by a combination of extreme heat, explosive population growth, and rising electricity needs from data centers, artificial intelligence systems, and industrial activity.

To stabilize the grid under mounting pressure, ERCOT is deploying a mix of emergency solutions and long-term infrastructure improvements.

Power on Wheels: Mobile Generators Deployed

In partnership with CenterPoint Energy and LifeCycle Power, ERCOT has rolled out 15 large mobile generators, strategically positioned at nine substations around San Antonio. Each generator provides approximately 30 megawatts, adding up to a total of 450 MW in fast-ramping backup capacity. Unlike older gas plants that take hours to activate, these mobile units can respond within minutes to sudden drops in supply or spikes in demand.

Keeping an Aging Plant Online

ERCOT is also keeping the decades-old Braunig Unit 3 gas plant in operation, despite its previous retirement schedule. The plant, which provides another 400 MW of power, has undergone extensive repairs totaling more than $59 million. While it is slower to bring online—sometimes requiring up to 24 hours—it offers a stabilizing energy source when intermittent renewables fluctuate.

Trouble Near of San Antonio

Grid operators are particularly concerned about overloaded and aging transmission infrastructure around San Antonio. These transmission bottlenecks, if left unaddressed, could cause local blackouts or even ripple effects across the state’s grid. To reduce that risk, the mobile generators are being used as a short-term buffer until new infrastructure, including the San Antonio South Reliability II Project, comes online between 2026 and 2029.

Risk of Rolling Blackouts Falls

Thanks to these emergency efforts, ERCOT says the risk of rolling blackouts this August has dropped to less than 1%—a significant improvement from the 12% risk projected just last summer. That’s due not only to backup generation but also to increased investments in battery storage and solar power, which have helped stabilize the grid during the evenings, when solar production drops but electricity use remains high.

Paid by the People

All of these emergency actions come at a cost—covered by ratepayers across the state. The mobile generators alone cost an estimated $54 million. When combined with Braunig’s repair bills and other grid upgrades, Texans can expect to see the price of reliability reflected in their monthly utility bills.

Looking Ahead

ERCOT’s efforts are part of a broader push to future-proof Texas’s electric grid in an era of rapid change. With AI workloads and high-tech manufacturing pushing energy demand ever higher, and extreme weather events growing more frequent, grid resilience has become one of the state’s top priorities.

For now, ERCOT says it’s ready. But the real test will come when the next heatwave hits.

Jury Reaches Verdict in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Sex Trafficking Trial

Indira Zaldivar
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Jury Reaches Verdict in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Sex Trafficking Trial

Jurors in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile federal trial have reached a full verdict after three days of deliberations. The music mogul faced five serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, which could lead to life in prison if convicted on the most severe counts.

Serious Allegations and Potential Life Sentence

The U.S. government accused Combs of running a criminal enterprise that spanned two decades, using his wealth and influence to sexually exploit women. The jury considered five charges: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution.

Graphic Testimonies from Key Witnesses

The seven-week trial featured emotional testimony from nearly three dozen government witnesses, including Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and two other women. They described disturbing acts of abuse, manipulation, and coercion. Some witnesses received immunity in exchange for their testimony.

Defense Pushes Back on Prosecutors’ Claims

Combs’ legal team presented no witnesses, relying instead on cross-examination and closing arguments. Lead attorney Marc Agnifilo argued that Combs lived a consensual but unconventional lifestyle and was not leading a criminal conspiracy. He admitted to instances of domestic violence but denied the more serious criminal accusations.

Prosecution Presents Disturbing Evidence

Prosecutors highlighted evidence such as hotel security footage showing Combs assaulting Ventura and accounts of sexual abuse, forced labor, and threats. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik emphasized that even one instance of coercion was enough to find him guilty of sex trafficking.

What’s Next for Combs

Combs has been held without bail since his arrest in fall 2024. Regardless of the verdict, he still faces multiple civil lawsuits alleging rape and assault. He has consistently denied all allegations, accusing plaintiffs of seeking financial gain.

This story is developing.

For more updates on the Combs’ trial, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

McCaul Defends Sweeping Border and Defense Bill Amid GOP Division

Edward Saenz
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McCaul Defends Sweeping Border and Defense Bill Amid GOP Division

U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, on Sunday defended a sweeping legislative package that includes $80 billion for border security, $150 billion in defense spending, and permanent tax cuts, framing it as a critical step for national security and economic stability.

Appearing on CBS’s Face the Nation, McCaul said the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill” would dramatically reduce illegal immigration, support America’s military amid rising global threats, and prevent what he called “the largest tax increase in American history.”

“This bill secures the border, strengthens the military, and protects taxpayers,” said McCaul, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “That’s a win-win-win for the American people.”

The legislation, which has drawn mixed reactions from Republicans, proposes $80 billion for immigration enforcement, including $12 billion in reimbursements for southern border states like Texas that have shouldered the costs of federal inaction. McCaul cited internal data showing a sharp drop in apprehensions along the Texas-Mexico border, which he attributed to enhanced enforcement and an end to “catch and release” policies.

“We’ve driven those numbers down to almost zero in many regions,” he said. “That shows deterrence works.”

McCaul also defended the bill’s $150 billion allocation to the Department of Defense, citing escalating global tensions in the Middle East, Europe and the Indo-Pacific. He argued that increased military readiness is vital in a “more dangerous world.”

Not all Republicans are on board. Some, including Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, have raised concerns over potential impacts to Medicaid and the federal deficit. The bill includes cost-cutting measures that McCaul said are focused on eliminating “waste, fraud and abuse” in social programs, not slashing essential services.

“This is about accountability, not austerity,” McCaul said, dismissing deficit concerns and arguing that making the Trump-era tax cuts permanent would stimulate growth and ultimately boost revenue.

He also warned that rejecting the bill could carry political consequences for Republicans facing re-election in 2026.

“This is a defining moment,” McCaul said. “If we fail to pass this, we risk our credibility on border security, national defense, and fiscal responsibility.”

The bill remains a focal point of negotiations in the House, with leadership aiming to build consensus before the August recess.

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