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Mexico Beats South Korea to Clinch World Cup Knockout Spot

Michael Esparza
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Mexico Beats South Korea to Clinch World Cup Knockout Spot

Mexico’s 1-0 win over South Korea gave El Tri a major boost in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Mexico South Korea World Cup match ended with the co-hosts securing first place in Group A and becoming the first team to reach the Round of 32.

The victory came Thursday, June 18, at Estadio Akron near Guadalajara. Mexico now heads into its final group match with control of its tournament path.

Mexico South Korea World Cup Match Turns on One Moment

The first half brought few clear chances for either team. South Korea stayed compact and tried to slow Mexico’s rhythm in midfield. Mexico pushed forward at times, but the attack struggled to find clean space.

The decisive moment came in the 50th minute. Luis Romo reacted quickly after a South Korean defensive mistake and scored the only goal of the match.

The goal changed the pace of the game. Mexico gained confidence, while South Korea had to take more risks in search of an equalizer.

Raúl Rangel Helps Mexico Hold the Lead

South Korea pushed harder in the final stretch. The team sent more players forward and looked for openings in the Mexican defense.

Goalkeeper Raúl Rangel delivered the key defensive moment late in the match. He made a crucial double save to protect Mexico’s lead and keep the clean sheet.

That stop helped seal one of Mexico’s most important group-stage wins in recent World Cup history. It also gave the home crowd a tense but memorable finish.

El Tri Wins Group A

With the result, Mexico moved to six points from two matches. El Tri also clinched the top spot in Group A, according to match reports.

That position gives Mexico momentum before its final group-stage match against Czechia on June 24. The team can now manage that match with qualification already secured.

South Korea remains alive in the tournament but faces pressure in its final group match against South Africa. A positive result could still help South Korea move forward.

What the Win Means for Mexico Fans

Mexico’s win was not a dominant attacking performance, but it showed discipline and patience. El Tri found the breakthrough and protected the result under pressure.

For fans across Texas and beyond, the victory adds energy to a World Cup already carrying special meaning. Mexico is co-hosting the tournament and playing with major expectations.

The knockout stage will bring tougher tests. Still, Mexico has handled its first two matches with composure and results.

El Tri now has a chance to build on this strong start. The next challenge will be turning group-stage control into a deep World Cup run.

Harris County expected to appoint new Flood Control District director

Que Onda Editorial
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Harris County expected to appoint new Flood Control District director

Harris County commissioners are expected to consider appointing former agency engineer Marcus Stuckett as executive director of the Harris County Flood Control District as the department works to protect hundreds of millions of dollars in federal disaster-recovery funding.

The Commissioners Court agenda for June 25 includes an executive-session item to discuss and potentially ratify Stuckett’s appointment.

Stuckett is a licensed professional engineer and certified floodplain manager with experience in drainage, water resources and hydraulic engineering.

He previously held several leadership positions at the Flood Control District, including director of its Engineering Division and manager of its Watershed Management Department. He also worked as a project manager and served as a liaison to the Harris County Engineering Department.

During his time at the district, Stuckett oversaw engineering, design and bidding work for flood-control projects and managed hydrology and hydraulics operations.

He left the agency in 2022 to join the private engineering firm Pape-Dawson Engineers. His previous experience with the district could allow him to take over without an extended adjustment period.

Stuckett would replace former Executive Director Tina Petersen, who resigned June 11 after commissioners discussed her performance during two closed-door sessions.

Petersen said debate surrounding her position had become a distraction and offered to help with the leadership transition.

She had led the district since January 2022 and was its first female executive director.

The leadership change follows concerns about the district’s management of federal funding for Hurricane Harvey recovery and mitigation projects.

County and state officials raised questions about delays, grant documentation, employee turnover and whether Commissioners Court received timely and accurate updates about projects at risk of missing funding deadlines.

The district is managing 28 projects supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Texas General Land Office.

Eleven disaster-recovery projects face a Feb. 28, 2027, deadline, while 17 mitigation projects have deadlines in 2028. At least six projects in the earlier group were expected to miss the 2027 deadline.

County officials have proposed transferring certain phases of delayed projects into the program with the later deadline. Projects that are further along would then use money scheduled to expire sooner.

Officials said the restructuring could protect approximately $322 million in disaster-recovery funding connected to more than $800 million in federally supported projects.

The proposal would not provide additional funding or change the projects’ planned scope.

Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham has said the county’s plan appears workable but warned that the February 2027 deadline is firm. Funding that is not used by the deadline could be subject to repayment or a federal and state reconciliation process.

If appointed, Stuckett would be responsible for carrying out the funding-reallocation plan, accelerating delayed projects and improving grant documentation and communication with county leaders.

He would also inherit challenges involving projects financed through Harris County’s 2018 flood bond, including funding gaps, contracting delays and debate over how projects are prioritized under the county’s equity-based framework.

The June 25 Commissioners Court agenda does not include Stuckett’s proposed salary, start date or contract terms.

Harris County unveils plans for Remembrance Park in downtown Houston

Que Onda Editorial
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Harris County unveils plans for Remembrance Park in downtown Houston

Harris County officials have released new details about a proposed 5.8-acre park in downtown Houston designed to memorialize victims of racial violence and examine the history of Black communities in the region.

Remembrance Park would extend across three downtown blocks near Buffalo Bayou, incorporating Quebedeaux Park and the former site of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. The project would include public art, historical exhibits, gardens, gathering spaces and connections to nearby bayou trails.

The park should not be confused with Houston’s Memorial Park.

Harris County began considering the redevelopment of Quebedeaux Park and surrounding county property in 2020. Commissioners approved a master plan for the project in 2024.

The proposed park would explore the history of slavery, Reconstruction, Juneteenth, racial-terror lynchings and the struggle for African American civil rights. Designers have described the project as a place for remembrance, education, reflection and community gatherings.

Plans include eight connected areas, each offering a different experience.

The Witness Grove would serve as an entrance surrounded by live oak trees, seating and a mist fountain. The Memory Pavilion would feature a sunken sculpture garden intended for quiet reflection.

The Hush Harbor Gardens would be inspired by secluded places where enslaved people gathered for worship and fellowship. A Remembrance Courtyard would include a large installation featuring the word “REMEMBER.”

Other proposed elements include a landscaped Cypress Grove designed to collect stormwater, a shaded canopy with space for artwork and historical interpretation, a reflective water feature known as the Bayou Mirror and terraces connecting visitors to Buffalo Bayou.

Earlier versions of the park’s master plan also included an amphitheater, performance spaces, exhibition pavilions, a welcome center and areas for restaurants, shops and community events.

One of the park’s central features would recognize African Americans killed in acts of racial violence in Harris County.

Historical markers are planned to honor John Walton, Bert Smith, John White and Robert Powell, four Black men who were lynched in Harris County between 1890 and 1928.

The memorial effort was influenced by the Equal Justice Initiative’s Community Remembrance Project, which works with local communities to research and memorialize victims of racial-terror lynchings.

The proposed Memory Pavilion would be located near the former site of the Rice Home and Plantation. Designers said the space would encourage visitors to confront the history of slavery connected to the land before moving through the rest of the park.

The park’s three blocks would focus on education and remembrance, artistic expression and environmental restoration along Buffalo Bayou.

A construction consultant previously estimated the project could cost approximately $42 million. The figure remains a planning estimate, and county officials have not announced a final funding package.

A groundbreaking date and projected opening have also not been released. The project remains in the planning and design phase.

Houston City College approves three proposed bachelor’s degree programs

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston City College approves three proposed bachelor’s degree programs

Houston City College trustees have unanimously approved plans for three new applied bachelor’s degree programs as the institution continues expanding its four-year offerings.

The proposed programs would allow students to pursue bachelor’s degrees in Information Technology, Project Management and Early Childhood Education and Teaching.

The programs are expected to begin in spring 2027, pending approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the college’s accrediting organization.

The information technology program would offer a 120-credit Bachelor of Applied Technology degree. Students would first complete an associate degree before continuing their studies in areas including software development, cloud infrastructure or cybersecurity.

The proposed Bachelor of Applied Science in project management would use a stackable structure, allowing students to earn a certificate and an associate degree while working toward the four-year credential. College officials said the model could help students enter the workforce before completing the full bachelor’s program.

The early childhood education and teaching program would build upon the college’s existing child development and early education courses. The program is intended to prepare students for careers in schools, child care centers and other early-learning environments.

Final information about concentrations, admissions requirements and course delivery has not been released.

The three programs are expected to cost approximately $597,000 during their first year. College projections show the programs could eventually generate more revenue through tuition and state funding than they cost to operate.

The information technology program alone is projected to generate approximately $3.7 million over five years, compared with about $2.1 million in estimated expenses during the same period.

Texas law allows public community colleges to offer a limited number of bachelor’s degrees in areas such as applied science, applied technology and nursing. The programs are generally designed to address workforce needs and provide students with a pathway from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.

Houston City College already offers bachelor’s degrees in artificial intelligence and robotics and health care management. The institution graduated its first bachelor’s degree students in 2024.

College leaders have said the expansion of four-year programs was among the factors behind the institution’s decision to change its name from Houston Community College to Houston City College.

The three proposed programs are not yet accepting applications. Tuition rates, campus locations, enrollment requirements and online options are expected to be announced after the state and accreditation review processes are completed.

Houston FIFA Fan Festival reaches capacity during Mexico-South Korea match

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston FIFA Fan Festival reaches capacity during Mexico-South Korea match

Houston’s FIFA Fan Festival reached capacity Thursday evening as thousands of soccer fans gathered in East Downtown to watch Mexico face South Korea in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Organizers temporarily paused admission to the festival at about 6:20 p.m., roughly 90 minutes before the match’s scheduled 8 p.m. kickoff. Officials said the event was not being closed and that additional spectators could enter as other attendees left and space became available.

The outdoor festival grounds near Shell Energy Stadium can accommodate approximately 7,500 people at one time. Organizers have said as many as 15,000 visitors could pass through the site over the course of a full festival day as crowds rotate in and out.

The neighboring Shell Energy Stadium watch party also reached capacity Thursday. The ticketed stadium event was scheduled from 6:30 to 11 p.m., while admission to the outdoor FIFA Fan Festival was generally free and did not require advance registration.

Thursday marked the third time Houston’s official fan festival had reached capacity since the World Cup began June 11.

The turnout was fueled in part by strong local support for Mexico’s national team. Greater Houston is home to a large Mexican and Mexican American population, making Mexico’s group-stage matches among the most anticipated events at the festival.

The capacity restrictions were part of routine crowd management and were not connected to an emergency. No major safety incidents related to the admission pause were immediately reported.

The FIFA Fan Festival features large-screen match broadcasts, food vendors, live entertainment and activities from tournament sponsors. The event is scheduled to operate on select World Cup match days through July 19.

Mexico’s next scheduled watch party at Shell Energy Stadium is set for June 24, when the team is expected to face Czechia. Doors are scheduled to open at 7 p.m., with kickoff set for 8 p.m.

Thursday’s turnout highlighted the demand for Houston’s official World Cup viewing events. Organizers have encouraged fans attending high-interest matches to arrive early because admission to the unticketed outdoor festival is not guaranteed once the venue reaches capacity.

Texas faces flood concerns, dangerous heat after tropical weather weakens

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas faces flood concerns, dangerous heat after tropical weather weakens

Texas is facing a mix of lingering flood concerns and dangerous heat after tropical weather brought heavy rain and severe weather threats to parts of the state.

Tropical Storm Arthur formed near the Texas coast Wednesday before weakening, but its remnants continued to produce heavy rainfall and raised concerns about flash flooding across parts of the Gulf Coast and Southeast. By Thursday night, the National Hurricane Center said there were no active tropical cyclones in the Atlantic, though leftover moisture from the system continued to affect the region.

In Texas, the immediate concern shifted from the storm itself to the hazards left behind: saturated ground, high humidity, dangerous heat and the possibility of more storms.

The National Weather Service office for Houston and Galveston issued a heat advisory for all of Southeast Texas through Saturday night, with temperatures in the low- to mid-90s and heat index values expected to reach between 107 and 112 degrees. Forecasters also warned that additional rain and storms could develop late Friday into early Saturday, creating a flash flooding risk in areas where the ground is already saturated.

In Houston, heat index values could climb as high as 111 degrees during the Juneteenth holiday period. Rain chances were expected to return Friday night and Saturday, adding another layer of concern for flood-prone roads and neighborhoods.

Coastal areas also remained under beach hazards. Forecasters warned of a high risk of rip currents for Gulf-facing beaches through at least Saturday evening. Officials said beachgoers should use caution, especially in Galveston and other coastal communities, where dangerous surf conditions can continue even after a storm weakens or moves away.

The weather concerns come as the state continues emergency operations related to storms and flooding. Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 101 Texas counties earlier this week, allowing local governments to access state resources and coordinate with emergency management officials.

Abbott also directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate additional emergency response resources and keep the State Emergency Operations Center in 24-hour operations while storm risks continued.

The declaration covers counties across Southeast, Central and South Texas, including several areas that regularly face flooding and severe weather threats.

For Houston and the Gulf Coast, the threat is not limited to one storm system. Officials and residents are watching a broader pattern of tropical moisture, repeated rain chances, extreme humidity and intense heat.

The combination creates a difficult weather setup for communities already dealing with drainage concerns, flood-prone streets and the risks that come with prolonged heat.

Officials urged Texans to monitor local forecasts, avoid driving through flooded roads and take precautions against heat-related illness.

Texas passes California for most Fortune 500 headquarters

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas passes California for most Fortune 500 headquarters

Texas has reclaimed the top spot for Fortune 500 headquarters, surpassing California in the latest annual ranking of the nation’s largest companies by revenue.

The 2026 Fortune 500 list shows Texas with 57 corporate headquarters, ahead of California’s 56 and New York’s 53. The ranking marks another milestone in Texas’ yearslong effort to position itself as the country’s leading state for business growth, corporate relocations and major industry expansion.

Texas-based Fortune 500 companies generated about $2.8 trillion in revenue, slightly ahead of California’s roughly $2.7 trillion, according to the ranking. Fortune said the companies on the 2026 list collectively produced about $21 trillion in revenue, $2.1 trillion in profits and employed more than 30 million people worldwide.

Houston remains one of the biggest drivers of Texas’ corporate presence. The Houston area has 27 Fortune 500 headquarters, tying Chicago as the second-largest metro area in the country for Fortune 500 companies, behind only New York City. Twenty-five of those headquarters are located within Houston, while two are based in nearby Spring.

Some of the largest Texas-based companies on the list include McKesson, headquartered in Irving, and Exxon Mobil, headquartered in Spring. Other major companies with headquarters in Texas include Dell Technologies, Tesla, Oracle, Chevron, AT&T, Valero Energy, USAA, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and NRG Energy.

State leaders have framed the ranking as evidence that Texas’ tax structure, regulatory environment and workforce continue to attract major companies. In recent years, several high-profile corporations have moved their headquarters or expanded major operations in Texas, including Tesla, Oracle and McKesson.

The ranking also underscores Houston’s continued role as a national corporate hub, particularly in energy, health care, logistics, aviation and industrial services. Local economic development officials have frequently pointed to Houston’s corporate base as a selling point for attracting new investment and high-paying jobs.

But the growth comes with challenges. As Texas cities continue to expand, local governments are facing increased pressure on infrastructure, housing, transportation and public services. Critics have argued that corporate growth should be matched with investments that help communities manage population growth and rising demand.

While Texas led the country in the number of Fortune 500 headquarters, California remained ahead in overall profits and market value, according to reporting on the rankings.

Still, the shift gives Texas another talking point in its competition with California and New York for corporate investment, talent and national economic influence.

Abbott pushes data center rules, disaster response as Texas faces grid and weather concerns

Que Onda Editorial
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Abbott pushes data center rules, disaster response as Texas faces grid and weather concerns

Gov. Greg Abbott is calling on Texas energy regulators to protect residents from the cost of expanding electric infrastructure for large data centers, even as the state continues responding to severe weather and flooding concerns across more than 100 counties.

Abbott directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas to develop recommendations aimed at preventing residential customers from paying for infrastructure needed by large data centers, including facilities tied to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.

The governor’s office said data centers should be responsible for the electric infrastructure required to serve their operations. Abbott also called for recommendations on reducing residential transmission costs and asked regulators to examine ways to better manage the industry’s rapid expansion.

The push comes as Texas sees growing demand from large electricity users. State regulators approved a new framework this week that would allow ERCOT to study large-load projects together, helping the grid operator assess future power demand, available grid capacity and needed transmission upgrades.

The issue has become a growing political and infrastructure debate in Texas. Supporters of the data center boom say the projects can bring investment, jobs and new tax revenue. Critics have raised concerns about the amount of electricity and water the facilities require, as well as the potential effect on utility bills, rural communities and the state’s power grid.

Abbott has also said he wants lawmakers to consider requiring data centers to use more water-efficient cooling systems, report electricity and water usage more accurately, phase out outdated tax incentives and adopt practices aimed at reducing noise and other effects on nearby communities.

The debate over data centers comes as Texas continues emergency operations related to severe weather. Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 101 counties because of storms and flood risks affecting large parts of the state.

The declaration allows local governments to access state resources and coordinate more closely with emergency management officials. Counties included in the declaration span Southeast, Central and South Texas, including Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Galveston, Brazoria, Bexar, Travis, Hidalgo, Cameron and Webb counties.

Abbott urged Texans to monitor local forecasts, avoid flooded roads and follow instructions from local officials. The Texas Division of Emergency Management also activated additional emergency response resources and moved the State Emergency Operations Center into 24-hour operations as storms continued.

For Houston and the Gulf Coast, officials and residents are watching for repeated rounds of rain, flash flooding and high winds. The weather threat adds pressure to communities already dealing with drainage problems, flood-prone roadways and recovery from previous storms.

Both developments highlight some of the state’s most pressing infrastructure challenges: how Texas manages its growing demand for electricity while also responding to weather events that continue to test local governments, emergency responders and residents across the state.

McAllen Soccer Day Celebrates the Heart and Soul of the Game in the Rio Grande Valley

Blanca Beltran-Robinson
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McAllen Soccer Day Celebrates the Heart and Soul of the Game in the Rio Grande Valley

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the city of McAllen pulsed with energy and orgullo as McAllen Soccer Day transformed the Las Palmas Community Center and its surrounding fields into a vibrant celebration of the beautiful game. Spearheaded by Elva Trevino of Champions Club Agency and proudly supported by Que Onda Magazine as a media sponsor, this unforgettable evening united athletes, families, coaches, performers, and community leaders in a powerful tribute to soccer, culture, and connection.

From the moment guests arrived, the spirit of the Rio Grande Valley was undeniable. Local vendors showcased community flavor, music set the rhythm of the night, and excitement filled the air as players of all ages stepped up for the highly anticipated penalty kick competition. With the support of YEISI, Hector Ortiz, and Efraín Lopez, nearly 55 participants took part across multiple divisions, each kick met with cheers, anticipation, and pride from the crowd.

Adding a unique flair to the celebration was a stunning halftime showcase by Regina’s Modeling Agency. Blending fashion, confidence, and performance, the presentation brought a dynamic visual energy to the field, reminding attendees that soccer is not just a sport, it’s a stage for expression and community pride.

A defining moment of the evening came with the official proclamation presented by Commissioner Rolando “Rolly” Rios, honoring McAllen Soccer Day and recognizing its deep impact across the region. The ceremony spotlighted individuals whose dedication has helped shape and strengthen the game for generations.

Among those honored were Braulio Vidal of the Special Olympics, Coach Patrick Arney, and Coach Segovia from McHi, leaders whose passion and commitment have opened doors and inspired countless young athletes throughout South Texas. Their recognition reflected the true spirit of the night: honoring those who uplifted the game and the community.

The celebration was further energized by the presence of Tejano music icon Bobby Pulido, along with community-driven organizations like Rod Squad, Special Olympics, Fleet Feet McAllen, and Mi Familia Vota. Their participation underscored the unity and shared purpose that define the Rio Grande Valley.

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Throughout the evening, families gathered not just to watch, but to be part of something meaningful, enjoying live entertainment, supporting local vendors, and celebrating the universal language of soccer. Youth leagues, school teams, and community organizations stood side by side, showcasing the depth, diversity, and bright future of the sport in the Valley.

Set in the welcoming and accessible Las Palmas Community Center, McAllen Soccer Day created a space where community pride could shine freely, where every goal, every cheer, and every handshake told a story of connection.

As the night ended, one thing was clear: McAllen Soccer Day was more than an event, it was a movement. A reminder that soccer continues to unite, inspire, and elevate the Rio Grande Valley, driven by the very people who pour their hearts into the game.

Splash Into Summer Event Sells Out at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown

Que Onda Editorial
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Splash Into Summer Event Sells Out at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown

Splash Into Summer, a partner and family water park event presented by Life Savers ER, is officially sold out. The event is scheduled for Friday, June 27, from noon to 7 p.m. at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown in Spring.

The gathering will take place at 21300 Interstate 45 N., Spring, TX 77373. The event promotes food, water park access, family fun and time with community partners.

Splash Into Summer Marks a Family-Focused Day

Splash Into Summer is designed as a summer outing for partners, families and community guests. The event gives attendees a full afternoon at one of the Houston area’s best-known water parks.

Hurricane Harbor Splashtown offers slides, pools and outdoor attractions for families looking to cool off during the Texas summer. The event’s timing also places it during a busy season for local family activities.

The sold-out status shows strong interest from guests and community partners. It also reflects demand for organized family events during the summer break.

Life Savers ER Presents the Event

The event also highlights Houston Injury & Wellness Clinic as part of the partner presence. These organizations are connected to health, wellness and emergency care services in the region.

Community events like this often help local organizations connect with families outside of clinical settings. They also create a relaxed space for networking, outreach and appreciation.

Food, Water Park Access and Family Fun

The event includes food, water park access, family fun and great company. Those features make it a full-day experience for invited guests and registered attendees.

Water park access is a major draw during late June. With high temperatures common across Southeast Texas, outdoor water attractions remain popular for families and groups.

Food and shared activities also help make the event more than a day at the park. They create time for families, employees, partners and guests to spend time together in a casual setting.

Sold-Out Event Reflects Strong Community Response

Because Splash Into Summer is sold out, additional registration or entry may not be available. Guests who already secured access should confirm any arrival details directly through event organizers or the presenting organization.

The sold-out announcement also helps prevent confusion for families still looking for summer events. It confirms that attendance has reached capacity ahead of the scheduled date.

Interest in the event points to the value of accessible, family-centered gatherings. It also highlights the role of local businesses in supporting community experiences beyond their regular services.

Summer Events Remain Popular Across the Houston Area

Across the region, families continue to look for safe and engaging summer activities. Water parks, community festivals and partner events often draw strong crowds during school breaks.

Splash Into Summer fits that seasonal demand with a simple focus: food, water park access, family fun and time together. Its sold-out status makes clear that the event connected with its intended audience.

As summer continues, families can watch for future community events from local partners and organizations. Splash Into Summer shows how health-focused businesses and community groups can create memorable experiences beyond the workplace.

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