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Temperatures rise but a weak front moves in Friday

ABC13 Houston
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Temperatures rise but a weak front moves in Friday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our stretch of award-winning weather continues into Wednesday! Temperatures Wednesday morning started off chilly but will warm quickly. By noon it will be in the mid-to-upper 70s with most of the afternoon spent in the low 80s.

Good news! Oak pollen remains down significantly from last week, so hopefully those with allergies can enjoy the weather outside, too! Unfortunately though, today is an Ozone Pollution Watch Day as unhealthy levels of ozone could get produced in the afternoon hours.

Are any other cold fronts in the works?

We are expecting a weak front to move through Southeast Texas on Friday, but it won’t move the mercury much. This front will reinforce the dry and sunny conditions and lower humidity heading into the weekend. Another weak front could slip in here next Tuesday or Wednesday.

Any other rain chances coming up in the forecast?

Not really. In fact, it should stay perfectly sunny through the weekend ahead. Late next week we’ll have enough moisture back for at least a small chance for rain.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Chevron to lay off 600 workers in California as it prepares corporate move to Houston

Edward Saenz
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Chevron to lay off 600 workers in California as it prepares corporate move to Houston

Chevron is in the process of laying off about 600 employees based in its California office as the company prepares to move corporate operations to the Houston area.

First reported by Houston Chronicle the layoffs will affect several different departments, but all will come from Chevron’s hub in San Ramon, California.

The company plans to lay off about 25% of its workforce during the next two years as it restructures operations, and more cuts are likely to occur.

Officials with the company say they’re making the move because Texas offers a more “business-friendly environment.”Houston currently has the companies biggest employee base in the U.S., with about 7,000 workers.

Scientists Revive Dire Wolf Through De-Extinction Technology

Indira Zaldivar
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Scientists Revive Dire Wolf Through De-Extinction Technology

A Groundbreaking Scientific Feat

Colossal Biosciences, a U.S.-based biotech company, has achieved a historic milestone: the revival of the dire wolf, a species that went extinct approximately 10,000 years ago. This marks a major step in the company’s ambitious goal of using genetic engineering to bring back extinct species, including the woolly mammoth by 2028.

The Process of Resurrection

The revival process began with sequencing the dire wolf genome. Scientists extracted DNA from two existing fossils and combined it with the genome of a gray wolf, which shares 99.5% genetic similarity with dire wolves. Using precise gene-editing techniques, they modified the gray wolf cells to reflect the dire wolf’s genetic makeup.

Chief scientist Beth Shapiro expressed confidence in the project’s success.

“If it looks, acts, and fills the role of a dire wolf, then you’ve done it,” she told ABC News.

This dire wolf pup is among the first of its species born in around 10,000 years.
Colossal Biosciences

Debate Over Authenticity

Not all experts are convinced. Dr. Julie Meachen, a wolf expert and former research collaborator with Shapiro, remains skeptical. “I don’t think they are actually dire wolves. What we have is something new—a mostly gray wolf that looks like a dire wolf,” she told ABC News.

Despite the debate, three dire wolf pups have been born. Two arrived in late 2024, named Romulus and Remus after the mythological founders of Rome. The third, Khaleesi, was born in early 2025, named after a “Game of Thrones” character. They now reside in a secure 2,000-acre nature preserve.

Ethical and Ecological Concerns

While Colossal sees de-extinction as a way to restore lost species and ecosystems, others worry about potential risks. Bioethicist Dr. Robert Klitzman warns of unforeseen consequences. “You may produce a wolf that’s twice as ferocious. We need to be careful when altering ecosystems,” he told ABC News.

Meachen also questions whether resources should instead focus on conserving endangered species rather than reviving extinct ones. “The mission to save species from the brink of extinction is something I fully support,” she said.

Looking to the Future

Colossal has also cloned critically endangered red wolves and introduced the “woolly mouse,” a thick-furred rodent inspired by the woolly mammoth. The company hopes to continue using genetic breakthroughs to aid biodiversity conservation.

As Colossal pushes toward reviving the woolly mammoth within the next three years, Shapiro argues that avoiding such technology also carries risks. “If we decide these technologies are too risky and don’t try to save species, that choice has consequences too,” she said.

With ongoing advancements in de-extinction, the world may soon see more species brought back to life—but the debate over the ethics and impact of such efforts continues.

Keep up with environmental news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Trump vs. Obama: Who Would Win a Hypothetical Third Term?

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump vs. Obama: Who Would Win a Hypothetical Third Term?

Trump’s Interest in a Third Term

President Donald Trump has openly expressed interest in running for a third term, despite the 22nd Amendment barring anyone from serving more than two terms. In recent weeks, Trump floated the idea of running in 2028, prompting speculation about a hypothetical rematch between him and former President Barack Obama.

When asked about this possibility, Trump responded enthusiastically: “I’d love that. Boy, I’d love that.” However, a new poll suggests he may not fare well against Obama.

Poll Results: Obama Leads Trump

A recent Overton Insights poll conducted on April 2 surveyed 1,100 registered voters. The results showed 53% would vote for Obama, while 47% would support Trump. This hypothetical scenario would require a constitutional amendment, making such a contest highly unlikely.

The Constitutional Barrier

The 22nd Amendment states that no person can be elected president more than twice. Changing this amendment would require approval from two-thirds of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures—a formidable challenge.

Despite this, Trump and his allies have hinted at potential ways around the restriction. Trump recently told NBC, “There are methods by which you could do it.” His personal attorney, Boris Epshteyn, reportedly claimed to have studied legal pathways for a third term.

Political Reactions and Speculation

Reactions to Trump’s remarks have been mixed. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed the idea, emphasizing that Trump’s focus remains on his current term. Some Congressional Republicans believe he was joking, while others, like Rep. Andy Ogles, have even proposed revising the 22nd Amendment to allow Trump another run.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, however, warned against dismissing Trump’s comments. “The idea of a third term? Why not? They don’t believe in the rule of law,” he told CBS News, suggesting Trump’s ambitions should be taken seriously.

Conclusion

While Trump’s musings about a third term have sparked debate, the constitutional hurdles make such a scenario improbable. Nevertheless, political allies and opponents alike continue to weigh the implications of his statements, keeping the conversation alive in Washington.

Keep up with politics with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Houston loses NCAA championship to Florida in nail-biting finish that came down to the last minutes

ABC13 Houston
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Houston loses NCAA championship to Florida in nail-biting finish that came down to the last minutes

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KTRK) — Houston’s historic season ended in heartbreak Monday night as the Cougars fell 65-63 to Florida in a thrilling NCAA championship showdown that came down to the final seconds.

The Coogs faced the Florida Gators on Monday night in San Antonio.

ABC13’s Brandon Hamilton was in San Antonio along the River Walk Monday morning and spoke to Houston fans packing the Alamo city for the many festivities.

“One of the best experiences in my life. After having kids, getting married, this is number three for sure,” one Coog fan said.

Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. finished with 11 points, all in the second half, but what he’ll be remembered for most is getting Houston’s Emanuel Sharp to stop in the middle of his motion as he tried to go up for the game-winning 3 in the final seconds.

Clayton ran at him, Sharp dropped the ball and, unable to pick it up lest he get called for traveling, watched it bounce there while the clock ticked to zero.

Will Richard had 18 points to keep the Gators (36-4) in it, and they won their third overall title and first since 2007, this time led by third-year coach Todd Golden. The Cougars (35-5) and coach Kelvin Sampson were denied their first championship.

This was a defensive brawl, and for most of the night, Clayton got the worst of it.

He was 0 for 4 from the field without a point through the first half. He didn’t score until 14:57 was left in the game. He finished with one 3-pointer and, before that, a pair of three-point plays that kept the Gators in striking range.

It was Florida’s defense, not Houston’s, that controlled the final minute.

After Alijah Martin made two free throws to put Florida ahead 64-63 – its first lead since 8-6 – the Gators lured Sharp into a triple-team in the corner, where Richard got him to dribble the ball off his leg and out of bounds.

Florida made one free throw on the next possession, and that set up the finale. The ball first went to L.J. Cryer, who led the Cougars with 19 points. Blanketed by Richard, he threw to Sharp, who was moving to spot up for a 3 when Clayton ran at him. That left him with no choice but to let the ball go.

Sampson, who designed a defense that held Florida under 70 points for only the second time this season, looked on in shock.

Instead of the 69-year-old becoming the oldest coach to win the title, the 39-year-old Golden becomes the youngest since N.C. State’s Jim Valvano in 1983 to win it all — also against Houston.

The Gators trailed by 12 points early in the second half, and Clayton wasn’t the only one getting frustrated.

The Florida bench got a technical foul during a quick span of three foul calls in less than a minute. Later in the second half, Houston’s smothering defense baited Rueben Chinyelu into a technical after committing a foul.

But that wasn’t enough. Houston ends up at the same place as the Phi Slama Jama teams of the 1980s – in second place, but memorable.

This gut-wrenching loss came two nights after the Cougars fashioned a wild comeback of their own, from 14 down against Duke.

All three Final Four games were decided down the stretch, none by more than six.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with University of Houston sports with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Man shoots his ex and her current boyfriend in murder-suicide at car meetup, police say

ABC13 Houston
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Man shoots his ex and her current boyfriend in murder-suicide at car meetup, police say

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Police are investigating a murder-suicide they say stemmed from domestic violence in a northwest Houston parking lot on Monday night.

The Houston Police Department told ABC13 that a man showed up to an unsanctioned car meetup in a parking lot at 14191 Northwest Freeway and saw his ex-girlfriend with a new boyfriend.

The man reportedly shot his ex-girlfriend multiple times and shot the new boyfriend once.

Then, police say, he shot the ex-girlfriend several more times and then turned the gun on himself.

The shooter and the ex-girlfriend are dead, and the new boyfriend is at the hospital with a gunshot wound, expected to survive, police said.

Police say a Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy heard the gunshots while driving in the area, and rendered aid to the new boyfriend’s gunshot wound.

The shooter has only been identified as a 26-year-old man. Police say the other victims appear to be in their 20s.

If you need help getting out of a domestic violence situation, call the Houston Area Women’s Center 24/7 hotline at 713-528-2121 or call AVDA at 713-224-9911. You can also click here to chat with an advocate online. If you are deaf or hard of hearing and need help, call 713-528-3625.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with domestic violence awareness with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Archaeologists uncover an ancient Egyptian tomb belonging to a mystery king

Edward Saenz
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Archaeologists uncover an ancient Egyptian tomb belonging to a mystery king

Archaeologists have recently uncovered an ancient Egyptian tomb that sheds light on a king from over 3,600 years ago, but the exact identity of the ruler remains a mystery. The tomb, found in Abydos, Egypt, was discovered in January. It features a large limestone burial chamber with multiple rooms and a decorated entryway, but the name of the king who was buried there is unclear. Unfortunately, graverobbers damaged some of the hieroglyphic text on the tomb, making it unreadable.

The tomb, which does not contain any skeletal remains, is believed to belong to a king from the Abydos Dynasty. This dynasty, which ruled Upper Egypt between 1640 and 1540 BC, is one of the least understood in ancient Egyptian history. The king’s identity is unclear, and it’s possible he’s one of several rulers who are not mentioned in traditional records of ancient Egyptian monarchs.

Josef Wegner, the Egyptologist who led the excavation, explains that the Abydos Dynasty was largely forgotten due to political instability during that period. The discovery of this tomb opens up new opportunities for research into this mysterious dynasty.

The tomb was found about 23 feet underground in a necropolis in Abydos, an ancient burial ground. Abydos was considered a sacred site and was the burial place of the first pharaohs. It also held the tombs of many kings from different dynasties.

Over a decade ago, Wegner and his team uncovered a tomb that confirmed the existence of the Abydos Dynasty. That tomb belonged to King Seneb-Kay, a ruler who was not recorded in historical texts. So far, they’ve discovered eight tombs from this dynasty. The newly discovered tomb is larger than Seneb-Kay’s, which suggests it may belong to an earlier ruler from the dynasty.

The researchers suspect the tomb could belong to either King Senaiib or King Paentjeni, two other rulers from the dynasty. However, they acknowledge it’s possible the tomb belongs to a completely unknown king.

The tomb still features two painted images of the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, which are often seen in funerary art. The researchers plan to explore more of the area in hopes of finding additional tombs, using advanced technology like ground-penetrating radar and magnetometry.

Salima Ikram, an expert in Egyptology, praised the discovery for helping to better understand this little-known period of Egyptian history. She hopes future excavations will reveal more tombs and provide further insight into the Abydos Dynasty.

The tomb had three rooms in total with the main burial chamber measuring about 1.9 meters (6.2 feet) wide by 6 meters (19.7 feet) long. Researchers say the unknown king’s name was once painted on the entryway to the chamber (bottom right). 
Josef Wegner/The Penn Museum

‘A Minecraft Movie’ Breaks Box Office Records with Monumental Opening Weekend

Michael Esparza
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‘A Minecraft Movie’ Breaks Box Office Records with Monumental Opening Weekend

Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures have struck gold with A Minecraft Movie, which delivered a record-breaking opening weekend at the box office. The highly anticipated adaptation of Mojang Studios’ best-selling video game grossed $157 million domestically and an additional $144 million internationally, bringing its global debut to an astonishing $301 million. This achievement not only marks the largest opening of 2025 but also sets a new benchmark for video game adaptations in cinematic history, surpassing the previous record held by The Super Mario Bros. Movie ($146 million in 2023).

A Much-Needed Win for Hollywood

The film’s success comes at a critical time for the movie industry, which had been grappling with declining box office revenues. Before A Minecraft Movie‘s release, 2025’s box office earnings were down 13% compared to the previous year. The film’s massive debut has narrowed that gap significantly, offering a much-needed boost to both Hollywood studios and theater owners.

Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros.’ head of global distribution, described the film as “a genuine hit right at the bullseye,” emphasizing its role in revitalizing the industry. Analysts attribute this success to the film’s broad appeal, clever marketing, and the enduring popularity of the source material, which boasts over 300 million copies sold and 174 million monthly players worldwide.

Breaking Records and Expectations

Initial projections for A Minecraft Movie were conservative, with estimates ranging from $60 million to $80 million domestically. However, strong pre-sales, positive audience buzz, and walk-up ticket purchases propelled the film far beyond expectations. Its domestic opening of $157 million is nearly double early forecasts and eclipses this year’s previous top opener, Captain America: Brave New World ($88.5 million).

Internationally, the film performed exceptionally well in markets like China, where it earned $14.6 million—marking the best performance for a Hollywood release in the country this year.

Audience Demographics and Reception

Despite mixed reviews from critics (earning a B+ CinemaScore), A Minecraft Movie resonated strongly with audiences under 18, who rated it an A. The film’s audience was predominantly male (around 65%) and skewed younger, with 64% of viewers under 25 years old. Families also contributed significantly to ticket sales.

The PG-rated action-comedy features a star-studded cast led by Jack Black as Steve and Jason Momoa in a key role. Directed by Jared Hess (Napoleon Dynamite), the story follows four outcasts transported into Minecraft’s cubic Overworld as they embark on a perilous yet comedic quest to return home.

Implications for Video Game Adaptations

The success of A Minecraft Movie continues the upward trend for video game adaptations at the box office. Recent hits like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Five Nights at Freddy’s have demonstrated that studios are finally cracking the formula for turning beloved games into cinematic blockbusters.

Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst at Comscore, noted that “younger viewers genuinely enjoy the cinema experience,” highlighting how films like Minecraft can transition from small screens to big screens as must-see events.

For Warner Bros., Legendary Pictures, and fans of Minecraft alike, this is a monumental win that underscores the enduring power of well-executed adaptations rooted in beloved cultural phenomena.

U.S. Stocks Rebound as Trump Signals Tariff Negotiations

Edward Saenz
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U.S. Stocks Rebound as Trump Signals Tariff Negotiations

Market Recovers After Initial Deep Losses

U.S. stocks saw a dramatic turnaround on Monday morning, rebounding from steep losses after President Donald Trump suggested openness to negotiating tariffs with trade partners. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 470 points (1.2%), while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 gained 2.5% and 1.8%, respectively.

“Countries from all over the world are talking to us,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Tough but fair parameters are being set.”

This recovery follows last week’s market turbulence, where the Dow suffered its worst week since 2020, and the Nasdaq officially entered a bear market.

Global Markets Experience Sharp Declines

Before the U.S. markets rebounded, global markets suffered severe losses. Asian stocks took a significant hit, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index plummeting 13.22%, its worst single-day drop since the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis. Other major losses included:

  • Japan’s Nikkei 225: Down nearly 9%, triggering a trading halt.
  • Taiwan’s Taiex: Dropped 9.7%.
  • South Korea’s KOSPI: Fell 5.5%.
  • China’s Shanghai Composite: Declined more than 7% despite government intervention.

European markets mirrored the decline, with the British FTSE 100, Germany’s DAX, and France’s CAC all experiencing significant drops between 6-10%.

Trump Addresses Market Concerns

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump acknowledged the market turbulence but remained optimistic about the country’s economic future.

“I don’t want anything to go down, but sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something,” he said. “Our country has gotten a lot stronger, and eventually, it will be the most dominant economically in the world.”

U.S. Markets Braced for Continued Volatility

Despite Monday’s gains, uncertainty looms as investors react to Trump’s new tariffs. The Dow closed Friday down 2,230 points (5.5%), while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell 6% and 5.8%, respectively. The Nasdaq’s decline placed it firmly in bear market territory, marking a 20% drop from its recent peak.

The coming days will test whether Monday’s recovery is the start of a sustained rebound or a brief respite in an ongoing period of volatility.

Keep up with the effect of Trump’s tariffs with us on Que Onda Magazine.

What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes by the April 15 Deadline

Indira Zaldivar
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What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes by the April 15 Deadline

April 15 can arrive sooner than expected, catching many taxpayers off guard. If you find yourself unable to pay your taxes by the deadline, don’t panic—you have options. Here’s what happens if you miss the tax deadline, immediate steps to take, and IRS solutions to help you stay on track.

Consequences of Missing the Tax Deadline

The IRS differentiates between failing to file and failing to pay:

  • Failure to File: If you don’t submit your tax return by April 15, the IRS imposes a failure-to-file penalty, typically 5% of your unpaid taxes per month, up to 25%.
  • Failure to Pay: If you file but don’t pay, a failure-to-pay penalty applies—0.5% of your unpaid taxes per month, also up to 25%. Interest accrues daily on top of these penalties.

For example, if you owe $5,000 and file six months late without paying, you could face:

  • $1,250 in failure-to-file penalties (5% x 6 months x $5,000)
  • $150 in failure-to-pay penalties (0.5% x 6 months x $5,000)
  • Additional interest on the balance

IRS Collection Actions

Ignoring your tax debt can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Tax liens on your property
  • Wage garnishments
  • Refund offsets, where future refunds are applied to your debt

Beware of IRS Scams: The IRS primarily communicates through mail. If you receive a call, email, or text claiming to be from the IRS, do not respond—it’s likely a scam.

Steps to Take if You Can’t Pay Your Taxes

1. File Your Tax Return on Time

Even if you can’t pay, filing your return prevents the costly failure-to-file penalty. If you need more time, request an extension through IRS Free File, which gives you until October 15 to file—but not to pay.

2. Pay What You Can

Even a partial payment reduces your balance, minimizing penalties and interest. You can pay online via bank transfer, debit, or credit card.

3. Consider a Payment Plan

The IRS offers several payment options:

  • Short-Term Plan (up to 180 days): Available if you owe less than $100,000. No setup fees.
  • Long-Term Installment Agreement: For balances under $50,000, allowing monthly payments over time.
  • Offer in Compromise (OIC): Settles tax debt for less than owed, but only for those proving financial hardship.
  • Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: Temporarily halts collection efforts if you can’t pay anything.

Special Circumstances

Some taxpayers may qualify for deadline extensions or penalty relief:

  • U.S. citizens living abroad receive an automatic two-month filing extension.
  • Military personnel in combat zones may qualify for additional time to file and pay.
  • Residents of federally declared disaster areas might be eligible for postponed deadlines.
  • First-Time Abate Relief may waive penalties if you have a history of timely filing and payment.

Don’t Forget State Taxes

State tax deadlines and penalties vary. Check with your state tax authority to avoid additional late fees.

Alternative Payment Solutions

If an IRS payment plan isn’t feasible, consider:

  • 0% APR credit card (if you can pay off the balance within the promotional period)
  • Personal loans (potentially lower interest rates than IRS penalties)
  • Home equity loans/HELOCs (lower interest rates but higher risk, as your home is collateral)
  • Retirement account loans (last resort due to penalties and lost investment growth)

When to Seek Professional Help

If you owe a significant balance, are facing wage garnishments, or feel overwhelmed, consider consulting:

  • Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) for tax preparation and payment strategies.
  • Tax Attorneys if facing legal issues or IRS collections.
  • Enrolled Agents (EAs) for assistance with back taxes and offers in compromise.

Beware of Tax Relief Scams: Some companies promise to erase tax debt but may charge excessive fees or be fraudulent. Always verify credentials and avoid large upfront fees.

Planning for Next Year

To avoid tax stress next year:

  • Adjust your withholdings using the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator.
  • Build a tax reserve by setting aside money each month in a high-yield savings account.
  • Stay organized by tracking deductible expenses and storing tax documents properly.
  • Set reminders for estimated tax payments and filing deadlines.

By taking proactive steps, you can navigate tax challenges more effectively and avoid costly penalties in the future. Keep up with more finance tips with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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