89.3 F
Houston
Sunday, June 14, 2026

Home Blog Page 82

Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival Returns for Spring Break Fun

Edward Saenz
-
0
Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival Returns for Spring Break Fun

Houston families looking for an out-of-this-world staycation can mark their calendars for the return of the Moon 2 Mars Festival at Space Center Houston, happening March 11–14. Now in its fifth year and presented by Wellby Financial, the event blends hands-on STEM experiences with live music, food, and exclusive access to space exploration attractions.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits during the day and enjoy concerts at night, including performances by The Wallflowers on March 13 and 311 on March 14.

NASA Experiences and Interactive STEM Activities

As the official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston will offer tram tours to astronaut training facilities, Rocket Park, and the Johnson Space Center campus. Festival grounds will also feature robotics demos, rocket-building activities, VR experiences, and educational programming for all ages.

“The Moon to Mars Festival is a spring break destination that offers a unique experience for families, space enthusiasts, food lovers, and music fans,” said William Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston.

20250315-Houston Texas. Space Center Houston hosted their annual Moon 2 Mars Festival. Photo by David Duncan Photography LLC

Innovation, Food, and Nighttime Entertainment

The festival’s Innovation Tent will showcase emerging space technologies with participation from organizations including the United States Space Force and aerospace company Intuitive Machines. Guests can also enjoy planetarium shows, science DJ performances, and immersive exhibits such as The Moonwalkers experience.

Food will be available throughout the event, including festival favorites prepared by celebrity chef partner Wolfgang Puck, along with a themed beer garden featuring a new Space Center Houston collaboration brew.

A Festival for the Whole Community

Organizers say the event is designed to inspire curiosity while creating memorable spring break experiences.

“We’re proud to sponsor the Moon 2 Mars Festival at such a pivotal moment in human space exploration,” said Marty Pell, president and CEO of Wellby Financial.

Tickets are available through Space Center Houston, with daytime activities included in admission and concerts offered as special ticketed events.

For more ideas on things to do in Houston, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Que Onda Magazine Celebrates Women Leaders at Houston Event

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Que Onda Magazine Celebrates Women Leaders at Houston Event

Community Celebration Honors Women in Leadership

Que Onda Magazine is celebrating women in leadership across the Houston area during a special recognition event taking place Friday, March 13 at 6 p.m. at MECA at TBH 333 S Jensen Houston, TX 77003.

The event honors several influential women who have made an impact in public service, business, sports, and community leadership, including Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock, board chair of METRO Houston, and several women elected to offices in Harris County.

The evening highlights the achievements and leadership of women shaping the future of the Houston region.

Hosted by ABC13’s Samica Knight

The celebration will be emceed by Samica Knight of ABC13 Houston, who will guide the program honoring women leaders and their contributions to the community.

Community and Corporate Support

The event is made possible thanks to the support of numerous community partners and sponsors, including Lopez Law Firm, Life Savers, Goya, MECA Houston, Houston City College, Houston First Corporation, United Airlines, Taqueria Arandas, Houston Texans, Telemundo Houston, Funeraria del Angel, Latin Groove, Sylvia Reyes Real Estate and the Mariachi Festival.

Organizers say the event aims to highlight the achievements of women who continue to break barriers and lead across Houston’s civic and professional landscape.

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

ROTC Students Stop Gunman at Old Dominion University

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
ROTC Students Stop Gunman at Old Dominion University

Instructor Killed in Campus Shooting

A gunman opened fire inside an academic building at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia on Thursday, killing an ROTC instructor and injuring two others before students subdued the suspect, authorities said.

Officials identified the victim as Brandon Shah, a lieutenant colonel, Army aviator and professor of military science who taught in the university’s ROTC program.

Lt. Col. Brandon Shah was a professor of military science and ROTC instructor at Old Dominion University in Virginia.
ODU

ROTC Students Stopped the Attacker

The suspected gunman, 41-year-old Mohamed Jalloh, allegedly entered a classroom in Constant Hall, asked if it was an ROTC class and opened fire after receiving confirmation, investigators said.

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, ROTC students in the room acted quickly and physically subdued the suspect, ending the threat before police arrived. Officials said Jalloh was not shot but was killed during the struggle.

Suspect Had Terrorism Conviction

Authorities said Jalloh previously served in the Virginia Army National Guard and was convicted in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to the extremist group ISIS. He was released from federal prison in December 2024.

The FBI is investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism. Classes at the university were canceled following the shooting while authorities continued their investigation.

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

Suspect in Michigan Synagogue Attack Had Family Killed in Lebanon Strike, Mayor Says

Edward Saenz
-
0
Suspect in Michigan Synagogue Attack Had Family Killed in Lebanon Strike, Mayor Says

Truck Ramming and Shooting Investigated as Hate Crime

Authorities are investigating a violent attack at Temple Israel Synagogue after a suspect rammed a truck into the building and opened fire. The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, was shot and killed by synagogue security guards.

Officials said the truck contained fireworks and an unidentified chemical agent that ignited after the crash. One security guard was struck by the vehicle and briefly knocked unconscious but is expected to recover.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the incident as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.

Suspect Had Personal Loss in Lebanon Conflict

Mo Baydoun, mayor of Dearborn Heights, said the suspect had recently lost several family members in an Israeli strike in Lebanon. The mayor condemned the attack and warned that global conflicts can sometimes fuel violence within local communities.

Leaders Condemn Antisemitism

Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, called the incident “antisemitism at its absolute worst,” noting that children were inside the synagogue during the attack. About 140 students and staff were safely evacuated, and no one inside the building was injured.

Whitmer said security measures likely prevented a far more deadly outcome and urged Americans to reject hate and lower political tensions amid rising antisemitic incidents nationwide.

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

Children Held in ICE Detention Beyond Legal Limit, Families Say

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Children Held in ICE Detention Beyond Legal Limit, Families Say

Families Describe Trauma at Texas Detention Center

Immigrant families detained at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center say children are being held for weeks or months—far beyond the 20-day limit established under the Flores Settlement Agreement, a court settlement meant to protect minors in immigration custody.

Data collected by court monitors shows more than 900 children have been detained longer than 20 days since the start of the second administration of Donald Trump, with some confined for more than twice that period.

Child With Autism Struggles in Detention

Vilma Bautista Torres, an asylum seeker from Honduras, said she and her 9-year-old son Kenek—who has severe autism—spent more than 80 days at the facility. Without therapy or specialized schooling, she said her son became increasingly distressed, crying at night and hitting himself.

“He would tell me, ‘Let’s go to my house,’” she said.

Advocates Warn of Harm to Children

Immigration lawyers say prolonged detention is part of a broader enforcement strategy meant to discourage asylum claims. Experts warn extended confinement can cause developmental regression and psychological trauma in children.

The facility is operated by private prison company CoreCivic under contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which denies claims of poor care and says families receive appropriate services.

Advocates argue the cases highlight the growing impact of immigration detention policies on vulnerable children and families awaiting asylum decisions.

For more on immigration enforcement effects and updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

ICE Surveillance App and Arrest Targets Revealed in Oregon Lawsuit

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
ICE Surveillance App and Arrest Targets Revealed in Oregon Lawsuit

Court Testimony Sheds Light on ICE Operations

New courtroom testimony has revealed that agents with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Oregon used a specialized mobile app to identify neighborhoods for immigration enforcement and were given daily arrest targets during operations.

The details surfaced in a federal class-action lawsuit filed by the nonprofit Innovation Law Lab, which challenged ICE practices of detaining people without warrants or probable cause. A federal judge ultimately ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, broadly halting warrantless immigration arrests across Oregon.

Daily Arrest Goals Disclosed

During a December hearing, an ICE agent identified as “JB” testified that his team was verbally instructed to make eight arrests per day. The unit—made up of nine to twelve officers—was part of a broader enforcement effort known as Operation Black Rose, which authorities say resulted in more than 1,200 arrests in the Portland area by mid-December 2025.

Although officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have denied the existence of arrest quotas, the testimony appeared to contradict those claims. Public statements from Trump adviser Stephen Miller previously cited a national goal of 3,000 immigration arrests per day.

App Used to Identify “Target-Rich” Areas

Agents also described using a tool called Elite, a mapping-style application that displays areas where people with an “immigration nexus” may live. The app reportedly compiles data from multiple sources to estimate where enforcement efforts might lead to arrests.

According to testimony, officers used the tool to surveil an apartment complex in Woodburn, Oregon—an agricultural community with many farmworkers. After running license plates in the area, agents stopped a van carrying farmworkers and detained seven people.

However, the officer acknowledged the app’s information could be inaccurate and that it only provided probabilities rather than confirmed identities.

Judge Criticizes Enforcement Tactics

The case’s presiding judge, Mustafa Kasubhai, criticized the Woodburn operation, saying the intelligence tools and arrest strategy risked targeting people who were lawfully in the United States.

The lawsuit also raised concerns about racial profiling and mass surveillance. Advocates argue the technology created what they called an “electronic dragnet” that could bypass constitutional protections against unreasonable searches.

Legal advocates say the testimony provides a rare look into internal immigration enforcement strategies that are usually kept confidential.

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

13 Alert Traffic: Walmart 18-wheeler crash on Hwy 99 SB blocking traffic in Dayton area

ABC13 Houston
-
0
13 Alert Traffic: Walmart 18-wheeler crash on Hwy 99 SB blocking traffic in Dayton area

LIBERTY COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — Drivers taking the Grand Parkway in the Dayton area on Friday may experience heavy delays during their morning commute.

Before 7 a.m., SkyEye flew over a major crash involving a Walmart 18-wheeler along Highway 99 southbound, which could be seen blocking traffic in both directions between FM-686 and FM-1960.

At some points, traffic was being let through one lane at a time.

It’s unclear what may have led to the incident or whether anyone was injured.

ABC13 has real-time traffic data to help you navigate Houston’s roads and avoid traffic delays.

Sign up for traffic alerts that are sent straight to your phone through our ABC13 app. Manage your notifications from the settings tab.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Cooler conditions have arrived with temperatures dropping into the 40s Friday morning

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Cooler conditions have arrived with temperatures dropping into the 40s Friday morning

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’s an even colder morning Friday! Temperatures overnight fell into the low 40s across Southeast Texas, with some areas north of I-10 waking up in the upper 30s Friday morning. Widespread frost or freeze conditions are not expected.

What does the weekend look like?

It’s not as rainy or stormy as last weekend! It’s going to be a beautiful weekend with mild mornings, warm afternoons and plenty of sunshine. We are monitoring our next cold front though that could arrive late Sunday evening and will cool us down again for Monday of next week. This front could also bring a few showers and storms to the region after sunset Sunday as it tracks from north to south towards the coast overnight.

Any strong storms expected with this next cold front?

Sunday night’s cold front could bring a few isolated thunderstorms Sunday evening and night. The highest chance for severe storms with the front will extend from northeast Texas to Missouri where damaging winds will be possible.
An isolated strong storm can’t be ruled out in our area with our northern counties being the most likely place. Stay tuned!

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the upper 30s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the 40s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Rising Leaders: How Hispanic Youth Programs Are Shaping Houston’s Cultural Scene

Que Onda Editorial
-
0

Rising Leaders: How Hispanic Youth Programs Are Shaping Houston’s Cultural Scene

Hispanic youth programs Houston have changed the face of Houston’s cultural scene more than many realize. These programs aren’t just after-school activities—they’re launching pads for leaders, artists, and changemakers shaping our city’s future. From vibrant murals to STEM projects and music ensembles, young voices are gaining strength and visibility. Let’s look at how these programs are making a real impact and how you can get involved. For more insights into Houston’s cultural diversity, visit Understanding Houston.

Impact on Houston’s Cultural Scene

Hispanic youth programs are making waves in Houston. They’re not just about fun; they’re about fostering new leaders and artists.

Arts and Music Programs

Imagine a city where every corner bursts with color and sound. Hispanic youth programs in Houston are turning this vision into reality. Local organizations offer music and dance classes that bring together traditional and modern styles. For instance, the Mariachi Academy teaches young musicians how to blend classic Mexican tunes with contemporary sounds.

These programs don’t just teach skills—they build confidence. When kids perform at community events or festivals, they gain more than just applause. They receive pride and a sense of belonging. The impact goes beyond the kids. Families and neighbors gather, strengthening community ties. As a result, the arts become a shared language that unites everyone. To see these programs in action, check out this YouTube video.

Murals and Public Art

Drive around Houston and you’ll see stories painted on walls. These murals tell tales of culture, history, and hope. Hispanic youth programs are behind many of these creations. Young artists collaborate with local muralists to design and paint vibrant pieces that decorate our neighborhoods.

These public artworks do more than beautify walls. They spark conversations about identity and history. They make the city a living canvas that reflects the community’s heart. Each mural is a testament to the power of youth voices and the importance of cultural expression. For more on mural projects in Houston, explore this Houston Banf article.

Empowerment Through Education

Education is a powerful tool for change. Houston’s Hispanic youth programs are using it to create future leaders and innovators.

STEM and Leadership Initiatives

Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. Hispanic youth programs in Houston know this well. They offer STEM workshops that encourage curiosity and problem-solving. Programs like the Hispanic Engineers Society introduce students to real-world engineering challenges, helping them think critically and creatively.

Leadership initiatives go hand in hand with STEM education. Students learn to lead projects, work in teams, and express ideas confidently. These skills are essential in any career path. By participating in these programs, youth not only gain knowledge but also become empowered. They start seeing themselves as capable of changing the world.

Scholarships and Mentorships

Access to education shouldn’t be a barrier. Scholarships for Hispanic students in Houston ensure that finances don’t stop dreams. Local organizations provide scholarships for promising students, making higher education attainable.

Mentorships are equally crucial. Experienced mentors guide young minds, offering advice and opening doors to new opportunities. They help students navigate challenges and celebrate successes. This support network is vital for personal and academic growth. To learn more about mentorship opportunities, visit Houston Area Survey.

Building Community Connections

Strong communities are built on strong connections. Hispanic youth programs in Houston are nurturing these bonds.

Nonprofit Partnerships

Partnerships with nonprofits amplify the reach of youth programs. Collaborations with organizations like the Latino Learning Center expand resources and opportunities. These partnerships bring additional funding, expertise, and support to programs, making them more effective.

Working together, nonprofits and youth programs address community needs and foster a sense of unity. They create a network of support that benefits everyone involved. This collaborative spirit is essential for lasting impact and growth in the community.

Family and Community Resources

Family support is crucial for any young person’s success. Hispanic youth programs provide resources that involve families in the educational journey. Workshops, family nights, and community events bring families together, ensuring they’re part of the process.

These resources strengthen family bonds and create a supportive environment for youth. When families are engaged, students feel more motivated and confident. This holistic approach benefits not just the individual but the entire community. For more on how Hispanic communities thrive in Houston, read this 24 Hour Translation article.

In conclusion, Hispanic youth programs in Houston are more than just activities. They’re platforms for empowerment, creativity, and connection. By supporting these programs, we support a brighter future for our city. Let’s continue to nurture these young leaders and artists, ensuring their voices are heard and celebrated.

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edition 1346

Edward Saenz
-
0
¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edition 1346

1...818283...989Page 82 of 989

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