81.6 F
Houston
Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Home Blog Page 6

Large Gathering at Discovery Green Prompts Police Response During Houston World Cup Festivities

Edward Saenz
-
0
Large Gathering at Discovery Green Prompts Police Response During Houston World Cup Festivities

Houston police responded to a large gathering of hundreds of teenagers and young adults near Discovery Green over the weekend, deploying more than 100 officers after reports of gunfire during one of the city’s busiest stretches of FIFA World Cup activities.

Authorities said the incident began Saturday night when officers received reports of a crowd of approximately 500 to 600 people gathering at the downtown park. The event, described by police as a “teen takeover,” occurred near several World Cup-related attractions, including the FIFA Fan Festival.

Houston police said officers were dispatched around 9:23 p.m. to monitor the gathering and prevent the crowd from moving into nearby World Cup venues, which were hosting thousands of visitors.

As officers worked to disperse the crowd, gunshots were reported from another group in the area. Police said shots were heard on two separate occasions approximately 10 to 15 minutes apart, prompting a large-scale law enforcement response.

No injuries were reported.

Investigators detained two individuals — one juvenile and one adult — who were allegedly found in possession of firearms near the area where the shots were fired. Authorities have not announced additional charges as the investigation remains ongoing.

The incident comes as Houston hosts several matches and fan events for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an international sporting event expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region. City officials have spent years preparing security plans for the tournament, with law enforcement agencies coordinating crowd management and public safety operations throughout the city.

Police officials said officers were able to prevent the crowd from reaching nearby FIFA Fan Festival activities, avoiding what could have become a larger security concern in an area already experiencing heavy pedestrian traffic.

The gathering has renewed attention on so-called “teen takeovers,” large social media-organized events that have occurred in cities across the country. Similar gatherings have occasionally led to public safety concerns, traffic disruptions and increased police presence in entertainment districts and public spaces.

Houston officials have not indicated whether additional security measures will be implemented following Saturday’s incident. However, the event is expected to be reviewed as part of the city’s ongoing World Cup security operations.

With multiple World Cup matches and related festivities still scheduled in Houston over the coming weeks, public safety officials continue to urge visitors and residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity.

The investigation remains active.

Houston-Area STAAR Results Show Mixed Academic Progress as Schools Continue Recovery Efforts

Edward Saenz
-
0
Houston-Area STAAR Results Show Mixed Academic Progress as Schools Continue Recovery Efforts

Houston-area school districts posted mixed results on the latest State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exams released Tuesday, reflecting modest academic gains in some subjects while highlighting ongoing challenges in student achievement across the region.

The results, released by the Texas Education Agency, showed varying levels of performance among districts throughout the Greater Houston area. Statewide, students demonstrated improvements in several mathematics categories, while reading scores remained largely unchanged from the previous year, according to state education officials.

The findings come as districts continue efforts to address learning disruptions that began during the COVID-19 pandemic and as educators work to improve student outcomes through targeted academic interventions.

Houston Independent School District, the state’s largest district and one of the most closely watched education systems in Texas, reported gains in several tested subjects under the leadership of Superintendent Mike Miles. The district has been operating under state-appointed leadership since the Texas Education Agency took control of the district in 2023.

District officials pointed to improvements in reading and Algebra I performance as evidence that academic reforms are producing results. However, data also showed some elementary campuses experienced declines in performance, drawing scrutiny from both supporters and critics of the district’s ongoing transformation efforts.

The release of the scores arrives amid continuing debate over HISD’s New Education System, a reform initiative that has reshaped instruction and campus operations at dozens of schools across the district. Supporters argue the changes have led to measurable academic gains, while critics have questioned the sustainability of improvements and raised concerns about disparities among campuses.

Across Texas, eighth-grade reading showed some of the strongest gains among tested subjects, while several middle school mathematics categories continued to trail pre-pandemic performance levels. State education leaders described the results as evidence of continued academic recovery but acknowledged that achievement gaps persist among student populations.

Education experts say the latest scores will likely play a significant role in policy discussions during the coming months, particularly as districts finalize budgets, evaluate academic programs and prepare for the next school year.

The results are expected to become a focal point in Houston-area education debates as community members, educators and policymakers assess the effectiveness of current reform efforts and consider future strategies for improving student achievement.

More detailed campus- and district-level results are available through the Texas Education Agency’s accountability reporting system.

Grammys Add 5 New Categories for 2027 Awards, Including First Asian Pop Music Honor

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Grammys Add 5 New Categories for 2027 Awards, Including First Asian Pop Music Honor

Recording Academy expands awards lineup

The Grammy Awards will introduce five new categories for the 2027 ceremony, including the first-ever award recognizing Asian pop music performances.

The Recording Academy announced the additions ahead of the 69th Grammy Awards, which will air Feb. 7, 2027.

New Grammy categories announced

The new categories include:

  • Best Asian Pop Music Performance, honoring artists from Asian markets, including K-pop, J-pop and C-pop recordings featuring Asian languages.
  • Best Latin Song, recognizing songwriting achievements in Latin music.
  • Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance.
  • Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance.
  • Best Traditional Folk Album.

The Academy said the Asian pop category reflects the global growth and influence of Asian music, while the new Latin song category creates a dedicated space to recognize songwriters.

Changes to Grammy rules and eligibility

Along with the new categories, the Recording Academy announced updates to voting and eligibility rules.

A new voting option called Ballot Plus will allow eligible members with expertise in multiple genres to participate in additional peer-related categories.

The Academy also changed the eligibility rules for Best New Artist, allowing artists to be considered up to four times instead of three.

Albums will now need 66% new recordings to qualify for Grammy consideration, down from the previous 75% requirement.

More recognition for songwriters

The Recording Academy will also expand awards recognition for songwriters and composers. Creators of new material on winning albums in most genre categories will receive Grammy trophies and achievement certificates, similar to producers and engineers.

The 2027 Grammy Awards will stream and air live on ABC, Disney+ and Hulu.

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

Pizza Hut to Be Sold for $2.7 Billion as Brand Struggles With Declining Sales

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Pizza Hut to Be Sold for $2.7 Billion as Brand Struggles With Declining Sales

Yum Brands sells pizza chain to new owners

Yum! Brands is selling Pizza Hut in two deals totaling $2.7 billion as the struggling chain faces declining sales, outdated locations and increased competition.

Private equity firm LongRange Capital will acquire Pizza Hut operations outside mainland China for about $1.5 billion. Yum China Holdings Inc. will purchase the mainland China business for approximately $1.2 billion.

The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter.

Pizza Hut faces challenges

Yum Brands announced earlier this year that it was reviewing options for Pizza Hut after the chain reported falling sales. The company also planned to close about 250 U.S. restaurants as part of efforts to address weaker performance.

Analysts have described Pizza Hut as the weakest-performing brand in Yum’s portfolio, noting that the chain needs major investment to compete with rivals and modernize its restaurants.

New owners focus on growth

Yum Brands CEO Chris Turner said the new ownership groups bring restaurant industry experience that could help position Pizza Hut for future growth.

Pizza Hut was founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, and became part of Yum Brands after PepsiCo spun off its restaurant division in 1997. Yum Brands also owns other major chains, including KFC and Taco Bell.

The sale allows Yum Brands to focus on its stronger-performing restaurant brands while giving Pizza Hut new leadership as it works to rebuild its business.

For more on your favorite food brands and chains, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

ABC13 Weather Alert Days through Wednesday due to flooding downpours

ABC13 Houston
-
0
ABC13 Weather Alert Days through Wednesday due to flooding downpours

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — At least two weather systems will bring torrential downpours that could lead to severe flooding in parts of Southeast Texas, prompting ABC13 Weather Alert Days through and Wednesday. Thursday has also been declared an ABC13 Weather Watch Day.

The ABC13 Weather Team said to expect an average of 3 to 6 inches of rain, leading to the potential for flash flooding in Houston through Thursday morning.

Drivers will need to exercise caution over the next few days and be aware of high-water spots.

Stay weather aware with ABC13 throughout the week for additional alerts and the latest on your forecast.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

El Paso City Council Keeps Meta Data Center Deal After Heated Debate

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
El Paso City Council Keeps Meta Data Center Deal After Heated Debate

Council rejects effort to cancel $10 billion project agreement

The El Paso City Council voted 5-3 to keep its controversial incentive agreement with Meta Platforms Inc. for a new data center in Northeast El Paso.

The decision came after a seven-hour public meeting Tuesday, where many residents called on officials to end the agreement over concerns about water use, pollution, energy demands and the size of the tax incentives.

City Representatives Josh Acevedo, Chris Canales and Lily Limón voted to move forward with ending the agreement. Representatives Alejandra Chávez, Cynthia Boyar Trejo, Deanna Maldonado-Rocha, Art Fierro and Ivan Niño voted to keep the contract.

Meta receives 25-year tax incentive

The agreement, approved in 2023, provides Meta with an 80% reduction in city property taxes for 25 years through a Chapter 380 economic development agreement.

The incentive applies to Meta’s planned $10 billion investment, although the company’s initial commitment was $800 million. The city estimates the project could generate about $15 million annually in city taxes and become one of El Paso’s largest taxpayers.

Meta said the project will create thousands of construction jobs and support long-term technology infrastructure in the region. The company has said the data center will create at least 300 jobs, while the agreement requires 50 permanent positions.

Residents raise water and environmental concerns

Opponents argued the data center could place additional strain on El Paso’s limited water and energy resources. Some residents cited estimates that the facility could use up to 1.5 million gallons of water daily.

Critics also questioned whether the economic benefits justify the tax break, while supporters said canceling the agreement could hurt future development and expose the city to legal risks.

Officials debate risks of ending contract

Supporters of terminating the deal argued the city should reconsider an agreement made before several current council members took office. Opponents warned that ending the contract could lead to lawsuits and financial penalties.

City officials have estimated the project could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue over 25 years, while legal experts have warned the city could face significant damages if the agreement is broken.

After the vote, protesters called on residents to hold elected officials accountable during the November elections, when several council seats will be on the ballot.

For more on the data centers and AI controversy, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Midland Aims to Expand Texas’ Growing Space Economy Through New Launch Site, Aerospace Investments

Edward Saenz
-
0
Midland Aims to Expand Texas’ Growing Space Economy Through New Launch Site, Aerospace Investments

Long known as the heart of the Permian Basin oil industry, Midland is positioning itself as a future hub for the commercial space sector as local leaders pursue new aerospace investments, manufacturing projects and rocket launch capabilities.

City officials, economic development leaders and aerospace industry representatives gathered this week to discuss Midland’s role in Texas’ rapidly expanding space economy, highlighting efforts to diversify the region’s economy beyond oil and gas.

At the center of those efforts is the Midland International Air & Space Port, one of the few FAA-approved commercial spaceports in the United States. Local officials say the facility’s expansive airspace, existing infrastructure and engineering workforce make it an attractive location for aerospace companies seeking manufacturing, testing and launch operations.

The city recently received a $5 million grant from the Texas Space Commission to support development of a planned vertical rocket launch site. Officials say the project could become one of the first commercially accessible vertical launch facilities in the country outside of government-operated launch centers.

Supporters argue the project would allow Midland to attract rocket companies, satellite manufacturers and aerospace contractors looking for additional launch capacity as demand across the industry grows.

“The goal is to create an ecosystem that supports the full aerospace supply chain,” local economic development officials said during discussions about the project.

Several aerospace companies have already established operations in Midland. AST SpaceMobile, a satellite communications company, has expanded its manufacturing presence in the city and plans to continue producing satellites in West Texas. Aerospace company Starfighters Space has also established facilities at the spaceport, supporting research and testing operations.

The initiative comes as Texas continues to strengthen its position as a national leader in the commercial space industry. The state is already home to major aerospace facilities, including SpaceX’s launch operations in South Texas, Blue Origin’s testing facilities in West Texas and NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Rather than competing directly with those operations, Midland leaders envision the city serving as a complementary center for aerospace manufacturing, testing and commercial launch activities.

Economic development officials say the strategy is designed to reduce the region’s dependence on fluctuations in the oil market while creating new opportunities in a high-growth industry. Industry forecasts estimate the global space economy could reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, driven by satellite communications, commercial launch services, defense contracts and emerging space technologies.

Local leaders believe Midland’s existing workforce, developed through decades of energy production and industrial operations, could provide a strong foundation for aerospace growth.

If development plans move forward as expected, officials estimate the region’s space sector could create hundreds of additional jobs over the coming years while attracting new private investment to West Texas.

For Midland, the effort represents one of the most ambitious economic diversification projects in the city’s history — a bid to leverage its industrial expertise and infrastructure to secure a place in the next generation of Texas economic growth.

Texas Expands Response to New World Screwworm After First U.S. Case Confirmed

Edward Saenz
-
0
Texas Expands Response to New World Screwworm After First U.S. Case Confirmed

Texas and federal officials are intensifying efforts to contain the spread of the New World screwworm after the first U.S. case of the parasite in decades was confirmed in South Texas, raising concerns about potential impacts on the state’s livestock industry.

The discovery has prompted a coordinated response involving the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Texas Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other agencies tasked with preventing the pest from establishing a foothold in the United States.

State officials have expanded surveillance efforts, increased livestock inspections and implemented movement controls in affected areas as they work to contain the outbreak. Veterinary teams have also been deployed to monitor livestock and investigate potential additional cases.

Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster proclamation related to the outbreak, allowing state agencies to mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts more quickly.

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Unlike common maggots that consume dead tissue, screwworm larvae burrow into healthy flesh, creating wounds that can become severe and potentially fatal if left untreated.

The parasite can infect cattle, horses, wildlife, pets and, in rare cases, humans.

The United States eradicated the New World screwworm in the 1960s through a large-scale sterile insect release program that is widely considered one of the most successful pest eradication efforts in U.S. history. The recent detection has alarmed agricultural officials because of the economic damage the parasite can cause if allowed to spread.

Texas is home to one of the nation’s largest cattle industries, and agricultural leaders warn that a widespread infestation could result in significant economic losses for ranchers and livestock producers. The outbreak could also affect interstate and international livestock movement if additional cases are detected.

Officials are increasing trapping and monitoring efforts in South Texas while coordinating with federal authorities and counterparts in Mexico to track the parasite’s movement and prevent further spread. Authorities are also preparing contingency plans that could include the use of sterile-fly release programs if necessary.

Agriculture experts say rapid detection and containment are critical because screwworm populations can spread quickly among livestock and wildlife if left unchecked.

While only a limited number of cases have been confirmed, officials say they are treating the situation aggressively to prevent a larger outbreak.

The coming weeks are expected to be critical as state and federal agencies continue testing, surveillance and containment operations across South Texas. The outcome could determine whether the outbreak remains isolated or develops into a broader threat to Texas agriculture and wildlife.

Texas Regulators Consider New Rules for Reuse of Treated Oilfield Wastewater

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas Regulators Consider New Rules for Reuse of Treated Oilfield Wastewater

Texas environmental regulators are considering new rules that could allow treated wastewater from oil and gas drilling operations to be used for agricultural purposes, a proposal that has sparked debate among industry leaders, scientists and environmental advocates.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is developing regulations governing the reuse of treated “produced water,” the wastewater generated during oil and gas extraction and hydraulic fracturing. Supporters say the effort could help address growing water shortages across Texas, while critics warn more research is needed to ensure public health and environmental safety.

Produced water contains a mixture of salts, heavy metals, naturally occurring radioactive materials and chemicals used in drilling operations. Texas oilfields generate billions of barrels of the wastewater annually, with most currently disposed of through underground injection wells.

Under draft regulations being considered by state regulators, treated produced water could be used under specific conditions and setbacks designed to protect water supplies and nearby communities. Proposed rules would restrict use near streams, lakes and water wells and require applicants to demonstrate that groundwater resources would not be harmed.

The proposal comes as Texas faces increasing pressure on its water resources due to population growth, prolonged drought conditions and rising agricultural and industrial demand.

Supporters of the initiative, including some energy industry groups, argue that advances in water treatment technology could transform a major waste product into a valuable resource. They say expanding water recycling efforts could reduce strain on traditional water supplies while providing additional resources for agriculture and other sectors.

Environmental organizations and some researchers, however, have expressed concerns about the long-term impacts of releasing treated produced water into the environment. Critics argue that current regulations may not require sufficient testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, radioactive materials and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals.”

They contend that wastewater generated by oil and gas production presents unique challenges that differ from municipal wastewater and should be subject to stricter oversight before widespread reuse is authorized.

The debate comes as Texas lawmakers and regulators continue exploring ways to expand water supplies amid recurring drought conditions and concerns about the state’s long-term water future.

If adopted, the rules could significantly alter how Texas manages one of its largest industrial waste streams and potentially create a new source of water for agricultural and other non-potable uses. The proposal is expected to face continued scrutiny as regulators move through the rulemaking process.

The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Texas’ energy industry, agricultural sector and environmental policy as state leaders seek to balance economic growth with increasing demands on the state’s water resources.

Houston’s World Cup Debut Draws Massive Crowd, Exposes Transit Challenges

Edward Saenz
-
0
Houston’s World Cup Debut Draws Massive Crowd, Exposes Transit Challenges

Houston’s first match as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup drew more than 68,000 fans Sunday and marked a major milestone for the city, but transportation issues following the game highlighted one of the biggest logistical challenges officials face as the tournament continues.

Germany defeated Curaçao 7-1 before a crowd of 68,021 at Houston Stadium, officially launching Houston’s role in the largest World Cup in history. The match was the first of seven World Cup games scheduled to be played in the city over the coming weeks.

The event represented years of planning by local leaders, transportation agencies and public safety officials, who have spent the past four years preparing for an influx of international visitors. Houston is expected to welcome hundreds of thousands of fans throughout the tournament, generating significant economic activity for hotels, restaurants and local businesses.

Despite concerns about heavy rain earlier in the day, fans arrived in large numbers and filled the stadium. Organizers reported only minor weather-related issues, while security operations and stadium procedures were largely successful during the city’s opening match.

The biggest challenge emerged after the final whistle.

Thousands of fans attempting to leave the stadium overwhelmed nearby public transit stations, creating long lines and extended wait times for riders seeking transportation back to downtown and other parts of the city.

METRO had increased service along its Red Line and encouraged fans to use public transportation rather than drive to the stadium. Before kickoff, trains operated frequently and helped move large crowds to the venue. However, the departure of tens of thousands of spectators at the same time created bottlenecks at stations near the stadium.

Many fans reported waiting well over an hour to board trains, while others described crowded platforms and confusion regarding boarding procedures. Some spectators opted to leave the transit lines altogether and seek rideshare services or alternative transportation.

The delays occurred amid high temperatures and humid conditions, leading emergency personnel to respond to several minor heat-related incidents among fans waiting in line.

Transportation experts have long identified mobility as one of Houston’s most significant challenges during the World Cup. Unlike some international host cities with extensive rail networks, Houston relies heavily on a combination of light rail, buses, rideshare services and private vehicles to move large crowds.

The city’s transportation system is expected to face additional tests this week as Houston prepares to host several more World Cup matches, including a highly anticipated matchup featuring Portugal.

METRO officials said they are reviewing operations from Sunday’s match and working with FIFA and local partners to improve crowd management and transit flow before the next game.

Houston leaders have repeatedly emphasized that the World Cup serves as an opportunity to showcase the city on a global stage. While the opening match was widely viewed as a success inside the stadium, officials now face pressure to address transportation concerns before larger crowds arrive for future matches.

The city’s next World Cup fixture is scheduled for Wednesday, when another large international audience is expected to descend on Houston Stadium and surrounding venues.

1...567...996Page 6 of 996

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