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Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Events of the Year for Entrepreneurs

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is preparing for one of the largest business networking events in the city this April, bringing together entrepreneurs, executives, community leaders and young professionals from across Houston.

In an exclusive interview with Que Onda Magazine, President and CEO Laura Murillo shared details about the highly anticipated luncheon and expo, as well as other initiatives designed to strengthen economic opportunities for the community.

Annual Luncheon and Expo: One of Houston’s Largest Business Events

The annual luncheon and expo will take place Friday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hilton Americas-Houston and will feature a wide range of industries, including health care, engineering, law, restaurants, finance and technology.

Murillo explained the importance of the event’s multicultural reach:

“When you arrive, it’s impressive to see how many exhibitors are there. Everything from security to doctors, engineers, lawyers and restaurants — a little bit of everything. People are exchanging business cards, looking for jobs and searching for opportunities to connect.”

In addition to the exhibition area, attendees will participate in a keynote conference featuring high-profile speakers. Past speakers have included George W. Bush and Tillman Fertitta, although the chamber typically keeps the keynote speaker’s identity secret until the event.

“What’s beautiful is that people, even if they don’t know who the speaker will be, go there to help each other — whether they are Latino or not. It’s important to hear those stories because they are inspiring and people can learn from them.”

The Importance of Networking for Growth

Murillo emphasized that active participation is essential for business growth, comparing involvement in the chamber to going to the gym:

“The chamber is like a gym. You have to participate, you have to sweat, you have to move, because business will not come to your door. You have to go out and look for that opportunity.”

The event is open to both business owners and professionals who work in companies or corporations and want to build strategic partnerships.

Programs and Events Throughout the Year

In addition to the April expo, the chamber offers several initiatives aimed at professional and business development.

Leadership Summit and Expo

An event focused on professional growth, where experts share strategies on leadership and business success.

“We have people who have been very successful join us, share their stories, and we also have an expo with people selling, buying and making connections.”

Date: Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

State of Hispanics: Data Summit

A conference that provides economic information and data about Houston’s Hispanic market, including housing, consumer trends, taxes and business opportunities.

“It’s data about Houston — where to move, what the opportunities are and how to reach the Hispanic community.”

Date: Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Emerging Leaders Program

Designed for young professionals under 40, connecting them with mentors from different industries.

“We have leaders who help them — architects, doctors, lawyers — so they can aim high and be in front of people who faced challenges but reached another level.”

Date: Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 (applications open in May)

Virtual Workshops and Online Resources

Since the pandemic, the chamber has expanded its digital resources with virtual workshops on topics such as:

  • How to start a business
  • Access to financing
  • Retirement planning
  • Marketing strategies

Many of these resources are available in both English and Spanish, even for non-members.

“There are many resources the chamber offers, even if someone is not a member or never leaves their house, because there is so much available online.”

The Economic Power of the Latino Community

Murillo emphasized that Latino-owned businesses represent a vital economic force not only for the Hispanic community but for the entire region.

“The Latino market is important for everyone, and understanding it is a very important skill.”

The chamber also collaborates with nonprofit organizations to promote volunteer opportunities and community engagement.

For more information about events, memberships and programs, visit HoustonHispanicChamber.com or follow the organization on social media.

UN Panel Accuses Trump Rhetoric and U.S. Immigration Crackdown of Human Rights Violations

Geneva Report Raises Concerns Over Racist Hate Speech

A panel of independent experts backed by the United Nations has warned that rhetoric from President Donald Trump and other U.S. political leaders, along with intensified immigration enforcement, may be contributing to serious human rights violations in the United States.

The findings were released by the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, a Geneva-based body that monitors global compliance with anti-racism agreements. The committee said it was “deeply disturbed” by derogatory language targeting migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

According to the panel, portraying immigrants as criminals or burdens could encourage discrimination and hate crimes.

Call to Limit Immigration Enforcement Near Schools and Hospitals

The committee urged the United States to suspend immigration enforcement operations near sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals and places of worship.

The recommendation was issued under the panel’s early-warning procedure, which is designed to highlight potential human rights risks. While the decision is not legally binding, it seeks to hold countries accountable to international agreements.

Experts also raised concerns about racial profiling by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, saying people of color are sometimes subjected to arbitrary identity checks.

White House Rejects U.N. Criticism

The White House dismissed the report as biased. A spokesperson said the administration’s policies have strengthened national security and reduced crime.

The committee’s assessment argues that U.S. immigration practices may conflict with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, which the U.S. ratified in 1994.

Allegations of Excessive Force

The report also highlighted recent incidents involving federal agents, including shootings in Minnesota that left two U.S. citizens dead during an enforcement operation.

Panel members said the use of lethal force in those cases could amount to “arbitrary deprivation of life” under international human rights law.

Ongoing Debate Over U.S. Immigration Policies

The criticism comes as the Trump administration expands immigration enforcement and deportation efforts nationwide, citing economic and security concerns.

Although the U.N. panel cannot enforce its recommendations, it is calling on the United States to review immigration policies, protect access to essential services for migrants and ensure enforcement practices comply with international human rights standards.

For more on Trump’s international conflicts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Missing 7-year-old with autism found dead in pond after search in Pearland neighborhood, police say

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PEARLAND, Texas (KTRK) — Pearland police said their search for a missing 7-year-old girl with autism has come to an end after she was found dead in a pond in the local neighborhood on Wednesday.

According to the Pearland Police Department, Skylar Hopson, a 7-year-old with autism who has been described as being nonverbal, wandered away from home with her iPad in the 2000 block of Sunset Springs Drive at about 9:10 a.m. She was last seen wearing a tie-dye dress, according to officials.

Police said they used K9’s, drones, and the Houston Police Department’s helicopter in the area to search for Hopson.

An Amber Alert was issued in connection to this incident, with officials saying it was issued due to Hopson having autism and being nonverbal. Police said there was no indication or evidence that Hopson was abducted.

According to authorities, K9s were able to track Hopson’s scent to a nearby retention pond, which aligned with pings from her iPad. At about 2:45 p.m., Hopson was recovered from the pond with assistance from the Houston Dive Team, officials said. Hopson was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Pearland PD thanked other law enforcement for assistance in the search, including TEXSAR and their K-9, as well as the local community.

This is a developing story. Eyewitness News is continuing to gather facts.

Watch live breaking news coverage from ABC13 on our 24/7 streaming news channel.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Man charged with murder in connection with case of woman who went missing in 2024, records show

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Angela Diaz went missing in 2024. Now, nearly two years later, authorities have charged a man with murder in connection with her case, according to records.

Charging documents show 39-year-old Jason Scarbrough was charged with murder on Wednesday. Documents state that Scarbrough allegedly murdered Diaz and then tampered with her body by using a saw to get rid of her body.

According to the Houston Police Department, Diaz went missing in July 2024, but her body was found in March 2025 in Clear Lake. At the time, police said someone was passing by on Space Center Boulevard when they found her remains.

“We have no timespan of when they were dumped. It could’ve been within a month or two, depending on the weather, animal activity, or it could’ve been years. It’s going to take forensics to nail that down for us,” a detective said at the time.

Records also show Scarbrough was out of jail on bail in separate cases of aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

Investigators still haven’t shared how Diaz was killed or how they were able to identify the discovered remains as hers.

For news updates, follow Brianna Willis on Facebookx and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Grab the jacket! It’s much colder for Thursday with temperatures only climbing into the upper 60s. Winds will still be gusty through mid-morning before calming down later in the afternoon. And after a stormy Wednesday, no rain is expected Thursday.

And be ready for an even colder morning Friday! Temperatures overnight will fall 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 storms expected with this next cold front?

Sunday night’s cold front could bring a few passing showers late Sunday and into Monday. But at this time we’re not expected widespread storms or severe weather like what we saw with last Wednesday’s front. This front will have another big cool down with it though, for another cooler couple of days early next week.

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 40s 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

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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Stay Safe This Spring: Community Tips for Houston’s Hispanic Neighborhoods

Stay Safe This Spring: Community Tips for Houston’s Hispanic Neighborhoods

Spring in Houston means vibrant festivals and busy streets in our Hispanic neighborhoods—but it also brings fresh safety challenges. You want to enjoy the Houston Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and East End street festivals without worry. That’s why this guide offers clear community safety tips Houston families and businesses can count on. Keep reading to get your family safety checklist, transit advice, and real-time alert sign-ups that keep you connected when it matters most. For more detailed safety resources, visit this link.

Community Safety Tips for Houston Spring Events

Welcome to our guide on keeping safe during Houston’s vibrant spring events. Together, we can ensure that everyone enjoys the festivities safely and joyfully.

Family Safety Checklist

Keeping your family safe is the first step to enjoying any event. Start by planning your day. Make sure everyone in your group knows where to meet if you get separated. Consider using the buddy system to keep everyone accounted for.

Always pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and a small first aid kit. It’s also wise to have a list of emergency contacts. Before you head out, check the weather and dress accordingly. You can find more detailed safety tips in this community safety guide.

Small Business Safety Tips

Small businesses are the heart of our community, and protecting them during busy events is essential. Start by securing your premises. Ensure that all security systems are functioning and that staff are trained on emergency procedures.

Consider having a plan for cash handling to minimize risks. Communicate with neighboring businesses to keep an eye out for each other. For more insights, check out this community conversation on safety.

Real-Time Neighborhood Alerts

Staying informed is crucial for safety. Sign up for local alerts to get updates on any potential issues during events. These alerts can provide information about weather changes or traffic disruptions.

You can join local social media groups or download apps that offer real-time community updates. Knowing what’s happening around you lets you respond swiftly to any situation.

Navigating Houston’s Spring Celebrations

With your safety fundamentals covered, let’s delve into navigating Houston’s bustling spring events. From transit tips to parking, here’s how you can move smoothly through the city festivities.

Public Transit Safety Houston

Public transport is a convenient way to get around during busy festivals. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Traveling with a group can add an extra layer of security.

Check transit schedules ahead of time to avoid long waits. If you’re new to public transit, familiarize yourself with the routes you’ll be taking. You can find more tips by visiting this link.

Parking and Traffic Safety Houston

If driving, choose well-lit parking areas and never leave valuables in plain sight. Houston’s spring events can lead to traffic congestion, so plan your route in advance.

Consider using apps to find parking or to get live traffic updates. Be patient and always drive cautiously, especially with more pedestrians around.

Emergency Contacts and Severe Weather Guidance

It’s always good to be prepared. Store emergency contacts in your phone and know where the nearest medical facilities are. In case of severe weather, have a plan for seeking shelter quickly.

Check weather updates regularly and listen to local news for any urgent announcements. This emergency resource page offers valuable guidance.

Engaging with the Community

Being part of the community during these events is rewarding. Here’s how to stay connected and informed throughout the celebrations.

Bilingual News and Resources

Stay updated with local happenings in both English and Spanish. Engaging with bilingual news outlets ensures you don’t miss important announcements.

Our partners at ABC13 and Telemundo provide comprehensive coverage. Keeping informed helps you enjoy the events while staying safe.

Neighborhood Watch Houston

Join or start a neighborhood watch to foster safety and unity. These groups are great for sharing information and looking out for one another.

Most people believe that safety is just about being cautious, but community involvement is equally crucial. The longer you wait to engage, the more you miss out on building a safer environment together.

Partnering with Local Media Outlets

Local media can be your ally in staying informed. They provide updates on events and any safety concerns. Consider reaching out to them if you have news or concerns to share.

Your voice matters in keeping our neighborhoods safe and vibrant. By working together, we can ensure a secure and enjoyable spring for everyone.

Houston Police to Give ICE 30 Minutes to Respond to Administrative Warrants

Policy change follows arrests that violated department rules

The Houston Police Department announced a new policy Wednesday that will give U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 30 minutes to respond when officers encounter someone with an administrative immigration warrant.

HPD Chief Noe Diaz said the change is meant to clarify procedures after two recent arrests in which officers violated department policy by detaining drivers and personally transporting them to ICE agents.

New requirements for officers

Under the updated guidelines, Houston patrol officers must:

  • Contact ICE and allow up to 30 minutes for a response if they encounter a person with an administrative warrant.
  • Call a supervising sergeant to the scene in those situations.
  • Avoid making arrests solely based on immigration violations.

Administrative warrants are civil immigration notices rather than criminal warrants, and law enforcement agencies often have different policies on how to handle them.

Mayor says arrests were a mistake

At a news conference announcing the change, Houston Mayor John Whitmire said the two incidents that prompted scrutiny were a mistake and confirmed they violated department policy.

City leaders raised concerns after reports revealed that officers had detained drivers and transported them directly to ICE agents. According to the mayor, the officers involved were relatively young and were not disciplined, though officials said the department would correct the policy confusion.

Growing scrutiny over immigration enforcement

The issue comes as immigration enforcement has expanded nationwide. Since the start of Donald Trump’s second term in January 2025, federal officials have added hundreds of thousands of noncriminal administrative immigration warrants to databases accessible to local law enforcement agencies.

In Houston and across Texas, departments have taken different approaches to how officers should respond when they encounter these warrants.

Several members of the Houston City Council have called for further discussion of the department’s immigration-related policies and may question police leadership at an upcoming meeting.

For the latest on immigration enforcement in Houston, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Your Spring 2026 Guide to Houston Cultural Events Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Your Spring 2026 Guide to Houston Cultural Events Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Spring is bursting with color and rhythm in Houston this year, and your calendar needs to keep up. The Houston Hispanic heritage events 2026 lineup promises lively festivals, music, and family-friendly gatherings that bring the community together like never before. From Cinco de Mayo celebrations to Latin film showcases, this guide helps you plan your spring with events that honor culture and spark connection. Stay tuned for dates, locations, and tips to make the most of Houston’s vibrant spring scene. For more details, check out this event calendar.

Houston Hispanic Festivals 2026

Houston is gearing up for a series of vibrant festivals that celebrate Hispanic culture. These events are set to bring joy and cultural pride to the community. Join the festivities and experience the essence of Hispanic heritage firsthand.

Family Friendly Events Houston 2026

Looking for activities the whole family can enjoy? Houston has a lineup of events that cater to all ages. You can start with the Hispanic Heritage Celebration at the Children’s Museum. This event offers interactive exhibits and cultural performances. Don’t miss out on the activities designed to engage young minds with Hispanic culture.

For an outdoor experience, take your family to the Houston Zoo’s Hispanic Heritage Fiesta. Here, you’ll find educational booths and live music performances. It’s a fantastic way to learn about different cultures while enjoying the beautiful Houston spring weather.

Cinco de Mayo Houston 2026

Cinco de Mayo is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a vibrant celebration in Houston. Get ready to immerse yourself in parades, music, and traditional foods. Start off with the Cinco de Mayo Parade. This event fills the streets with colorful floats and dancers. It’s a visual spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Feeling hungry? Head over to downtown Houston where food vendors line the streets offering traditional Mexican dishes. Enjoy tacos, tamales, and other delicacies while soaking in live mariachi performances. This celebration is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant community spirit.

Arts and Culture in Spring

Spring in Houston means a rich tapestry of arts and culture, waiting to be explored. The city offers numerous events that showcase the depth of Hispanic artistic expression.

Houston Latin Music Events

Houston’s music scene comes alive with Latin rhythms this spring. The city hosts a variety of concerts that highlight the talents of Latin musicians. Attend the Latin Music Festival at Discovery Green and sway to the beats of salsa, bachata, and reggaeton. It’s an event that promises non-stop music and dance.

For a more intimate setting, check out local bars and cafes hosting Latin music nights. These venues feature local artists who bring their unique sounds to the stage. It’s a great way to support local talent while enjoying a night out.

Houston Museum Exhibits Spring 2026

Museums across Houston are celebrating Hispanic heritage with special exhibits. The Museum of Fine Arts will host an exhibit featuring works from renowned Hispanic artists. Discover paintings, sculptures, and installations that tell stories of cultural identity and resilience.

Another must-visit is the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where you’ll find an exhibit on the ancient civilizations of Latin America. This exhibit offers a deep dive into the history and contributions of Hispanic cultures. It’s both educational and awe-inspiring.

Neighborhood Celebrations and Markets

Houston’s neighborhoods are full of life during the spring. Explore local markets and community events that highlight Hispanic culture.

Houston Neighborhood Events

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own unique way of celebrating Hispanic heritage. In the East End, you’ll find block parties with live music and dance performances. These gatherings are a great way to meet locals and enjoy community vibes.

In the Heights, the Hispanic Heritage Street Festival offers artisanal crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local vendors and experience the warmth of the community.

Houston Markets and Food Festivals

Food is at the heart of every celebration, and Houston’s markets are no exception. Visit the Hispanic Farmers Market for fresh produce and traditional Hispanic foods. Here, you can buy ingredients to try new recipes at home.

Don’t miss the Houston Food Festival that features a section dedicated to Hispanic cuisine. Sample dishes from different countries and learn about their culinary history. It’s a delicious way to spend a day and broaden your taste horizons.

Plan your spring with these exciting events and celebrate the rich Hispanic heritage in Houston. Whether you’re attending festivals, concerts, or markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information on upcoming events, explore the Houston cultural calendar.

Inflation Holds Steady in February as Oil Prices Surge

Inflation in the United States remained steady in February, but rising oil prices linked to the escalating conflict involving Iran are raising concerns that costs could climb in the coming months.

According to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, consumer prices rose 2.4% in February compared to a year earlier, the same rate recorded in January. While inflation has cooled from previous highs, it still remains slightly above the 2% target set by the Federal Reserve.

Gas Prices Already Rising

Fuel costs began increasing even before the conflict intensified. The report showed gasoline prices rose more than 3% in February compared to the previous month.

Since late February, oil prices have surged sharply. U.S. crude oil climbed to about $86 per barrel, increasing more than 30% in just one month as global energy markets reacted to the conflict.

The national average price for gasoline has also jumped, reaching $3.53 per gallon, up from $2.92 a month earlier, according to AAA.

Economists warn that higher fuel prices could eventually push up costs across the economy, especially for goods transported by diesel-powered trucks and planes.

Food Costs Remain Elevated

Food prices also remain a concern for consumers. In February, food costs rose 3.1% compared to a year earlier, continuing to outpace the overall inflation rate.

Higher grocery prices have remained one of the most persistent drivers of household expenses over the past year.

Slowing Job Growth Adds Economic Pressure

Economic data released last week showed the U.S. labor market may be losing momentum. The economy lost 92,000 jobs in February, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.4%, according to government figures.

Although unemployment remains historically low, slower hiring combined with stubborn inflation has raised concerns about possible stagflation, a period of slow growth paired with rising prices.

Federal Reserve Faces Tough Choices

The evolving economic picture could complicate decisions for the Federal Reserve, which is tasked with balancing price stability and employment growth.

The central bank held interest rates steady during its last meeting in January after cutting rates three times previously. Policymakers are expected to make their next interest-rate decision on March 18, as officials weigh the impact of rising energy costs and slowing economic growth.

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

Deadly Storm System Sweeps Across US, Leaving at Least 2 Dead

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A powerful storm system moved across large portions of the United States overnight, killing at least two people and injuring several others as severe weather continues Wednesday.

Officials with the Lake Township Fire Department in Indiana confirmed the deaths after destructive storms caused widespread damage, including collapsed homes and residents trapped inside buildings.

Millions Under Severe Weather Threat

More than 65 million Americans remain at risk as the storm system moves east from Houston to Philadelphia. Forecasters warn the system could bring strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail throughout the day.

The National Weather Service has already issued more than 45 tornado warnings across seven states, while at least 10 tornadoes were reported from Texas to Indiana overnight.

Destructive Winds and Giant Hail

The storms produced wind gusts between 60 and 80 mph, damaging homes, buildings, and infrastructure across multiple states.

Some of the most significant damage was reported in Kankakee County, Illinois, and Starke County, Indiana. Authorities in Kankakee County said a “large and extremely dangerous tornado” caused extensive destruction in the village of Aroma Park.

Hailstones measuring up to 5.2 inches in diameter—larger than grapefruit—were reported in parts of Illinois.

Storm Line Stretching Across the Country

By Wednesday morning, the severe weather had formed a massive 1,600-mile storm line stretching from Canada to Mexico, affecting areas from New York to Texas.

Cities including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Nashville, Memphis, Birmingham, Shreveport, and New Orleans are all under a Level 2 “slight risk” for severe weather.

Flash Flooding and More Storms Expected

Heavy rainfall may trigger flash flooding, particularly across East Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and southern Arkansas, where repeated thunderstorms could dump several inches of rain in just a few hours.

Forecasters say the storm system should move offshore by Thursday morning, followed by a cold front that could bring rapid temperature drops and even a chance of snow in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, including Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia.

For more on the fatal weather pattern, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.