68 F
Houston
Friday, May 8, 2026

Home Blog Page 222

Houston City Council Weighs Evening Meetings to Boost Civic Engagement

Edward Saenz
-
0
Houston City Council Weighs Evening Meetings to Boost Civic Engagement

By Edward Saenz & Indira Zaldivar

The Houston City Council is considering a proposal to hold some of its public meetings in the evening in an effort to increase civic participation among residents with traditional work schedules.

Public hearing sessions, where people can voice their concerns before Houston City Council, are normally held on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. , but council members are looking to increase public engagement by changing the final hearing of each month to 6 p.m.

Supporters argue that daytime meetings prevent many working citizens from attending, thereby limiting their voice in local decisions. Shifting certain sessions to the evening could open the door for broader public input and greater transparency in city governance.

Would this increase public participation?

The Houston City Council is seeking public input on the matter.

The proposal is brought forth by council member Mario Castillo through Proposition A and co-sponsored by council members Sallie Alcorn and Amy Peck.

City officials noted that other municipalities have successfully implemented similar measures, resulting in improved community engagement. The proposal is currently under review and could be voted on in the coming weeks.

If approved, the change would mark a significant shift in how Houston conducts its public affairs, potentially reshaping how residents interact with local government.

As of June 25, the item has been tagged, to be reviewed at a later date, with councilmember Matha Castex-Tatum citing the need to hear from the community in the meantime.

The next agenda session of the Houston City Council is set for Wednesday, July 9th at 9 a.m., as the council is in recess next week for the Fourth of July holiday.

Keep up with the latest from Houston City Council with Que Onda Magazine.

Cooper Flagg Drafted No. 1 Overall in 2025 NBA Draft

Michael Esparza
-
0
Cooper Flagg Drafted No. 1 Overall in 2025 NBA Draft

Duke basketball star Cooper Flagg was selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday night, calling the moment “surreal” and emotional. The 18-year-old phenom becomes the second-youngest top pick in NBA history.

Flagg’s Fast Rise to Stardom

Flagg accelerated his path to the NBA by reclassifying and entering college a year early. In his freshman year at Duke, he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, leading the Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance. His standout performance solidified his position as the draft’s front-runner.

Maine Native Makes History

With his selection, Flagg becomes just the third NBA player ever born in Maine. “Coming from Maine is a huge part of who I am,” Flagg said on Good Morning America, adding that he feels the support of his entire home state.

Excitement About Dallas Opportunity

Before the draft, Flagg visited Dallas for a workout and praised the Mavericks organization. “It was a great visit,” he said. “I’m really excited for what’s ahead.” After being drafted, he expressed gratitude to share the moment with his family and friends.

Message to Young Athletes

Flagg encouraged others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they come from. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from… as long as you believe in yourself and really work hard, you can achieve your dreams,” he said.

Staying Grounded Amid Big Changes

The top pick says he’s focused on staying grounded through the transition to the NBA. “Having my family close and a tight circle of people around me is going to be really important,” he said.

NBA Draft Details

The 2025 NBA Draft is a two-night event held at Barclays Center in New York City. Round one aired June 25 on ESPN and ABC, with round two airing June 26 on ESPN at 8 p.m. ET. The event is also streamed on the ESPN app.

For the latest updates from the final NBA draft night, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Scattered showers and storms are expected once again on Thursday

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Scattered showers and storms are expected once again on Thursday


HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Tropical moisture will linger into Thursday, keeping a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms going. This tropical moisture will remain disorganized, but a few of the storms could drop a quick inch or two of rain that floods streets along with frequent lightning strikes that could temporarily knock out the power.

The storms on Thursday should form later in the day, so the temperature will briefly climb into the 90s until rain-cooled air moves through the city during the afternoon. Remember, if you hear thunder roar, head indoors!

How much longer will this wet weather last?

Moisture levels will drop off in a bigger way for Friday and Saturday as drier air takes over. Another wave of tropical moisture will clip us on Sunday to bring the rain chance up to 30%, then the faucet will shut off for the first days of July as a Saharan dust cloud blows overhead.

What’s the early outlook for July 4th and the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

At this time it looks dry but hot! Temperatures will peak near 100 with heat index values well above 100.

What’s happening in the tropics?

The Atlantic is coming in quiet and no tropical development is expected over the next 7 days. That’s partly because of a large Saharan dust cloud that will blow in here by Monday. Meanwhile, another storm is threatening to form south of Mexico in the eastern Pacific. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Closing Arguments Begin in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Closing Arguments Begin in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial

The trial of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is nearing its conclusion, with closing arguments scheduled to begin Thursday, June 26, and continue into Friday.

Combs faces federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and obstruction. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Allegations and Defense

Prosecutors allege Combs led a criminal enterprise that trafficked women for sex, orchestrated drug-fueled parties called “freak-offs,” and used intimidation to silence victims. Some acts cited include the arson of rapper Kid Cudi’s car and coerced sexual encounters involving male escorts. Combs denies all accusations, claiming the sex was consensual and that he lived a swinger lifestyle.

Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo argues Combs’ partners were willing participants, not victims. The defense contends there is no direct evidence linking Combs to the alleged arson or other crimes.

Prosecution’s Closing Strategy

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik will present a four-hour closing statement, summarizing six weeks of testimony about sex, drugs, violence, and Combs’ alleged use of his inner circle to commit crimes. Prosecutors have narrowed their focus, removing some predicate acts like attempted kidnapping and arson but still including arson, witness tampering, bribery, and forced labor in their racketeering case.

To convict Combs of racketeering conspiracy, the jury must unanimously agree on at least two of ten possible predicate acts.

Defense Closing and Jury Instructions

Defense closing arguments were pushed to Friday at the defense’s request, prompting debate over whether it was a strategic delay. Judge Arun Subramanian agreed, adjusting the schedule. Once closings finish, the judge will issue jury instructions.

Defense attorney Agnifilo is expected to speak for three hours, followed by a one-hour prosecution rebuttal.

Obstruction Charge Simplified

Prosecutors also trimmed the scope of the obstruction charge, which centers on witness tampering. A former assistant testified she felt “terrified” after being contacted by Combs’ associates following Cassie Ventura’s lawsuit. A hotel security guard also testified about pressure from Combs’ staff to obtain surveillance footage.

Jury to Begin Deliberations Soon

The timeline for jury deliberations remains unclear. They may begin late Friday or wait until Monday. The case continues to draw intense public and media attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendant and the disturbing details presented in court.

Keep up with the last stretch of the Diddy trial with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Houston State Senator Joan Huffman Announces Bid for Texas Attorney General

Edward Saenz
-
0
Houston State Senator Joan Huffman Announces Bid for Texas Attorney General

State Sen. Joan Huffman, a Houston Republican and former judge, announced Monday she is entering the race for Texas attorney general, emphasizing her deep legal and legislative experience as she seeks to become the state’s top lawyer.

Huffman, who has represented the Houston area in the Texas Senate since 2009, chairs the Senate Finance, State Affairs and Redistricting committees and serves as the chamber’s lead budget writer. She previously worked as an assistant district attorney and later as a state district judge in Harris County.

“You want an experienced attorney, not someone who’s never seen the inside of a courtroom,” Huffman said in her campaign launch, drawing a contrast with other GOP contenders whom she described as “young politicians climbing the ladder.”

Huffman enters a crowded Republican primary field that already includes State Sen. Mayes Middleton and former Justice Department official Aaron Reitz. Her current term in the Senate runs through 2028, allowing her to seek the attorney general post without relinquishing her seat.

If elected, Huffman would be the first woman to serve as Texas attorney general.

Want help drafting an op-ed on this or breaking down where each candidate stands? I’m on it.

CareerBuilder and Monster File for Bankruptcy, Seek Sale of Core Businesses

Edward Saenz
-
0
CareerBuilder and Monster File for Bankruptcy, Seek Sale of Core Businesses

CareerBuilder and Monster, two of the most recognizable names in online job recruitment, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Tuesday in a move that signals the end of an era for legacy job boards struggling to compete in a rapidly evolving employment market.

The combined company filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, listing estimated assets between $50 million and $100 million and liabilities between $100 million and $500 million. As part of the restructuring, the firm is seeking to sell off key business units and downsize its operations.

The filing comes amid steep revenue declines, increased competition from tech-forward rivals like LinkedIn and Indeed, and what executives described as a “challenging and uncertain macroeconomic environment.”

Planned Asset Sales

To facilitate the restructuring, CareerBuilder and Monster have lined up several “stalking horse” bids—baseline offers that can be topped by competing buyers during the court-supervised auction process.

  • Job board operations, including the core CareerBuilder and Monster platforms, are set to be sold to JobGet Inc., a mobile-first job app focused on the gig economy.
  • Monster Government Solutions, which provides software to government agencies, is slated for sale to Valsoft, a Canadian software acquisition company.
  • Monster’s digital media assets, including Military.com and Fastweb.com, are to be sold to Valnet, a Montreal-based digital media publisher.

The company has secured up to $20 million in debtor-in-possession financing from Blue Torch Capital to continue operating during the bankruptcy process.

Downsizing and Operational Impact

CareerBuilder and Monster plan to lay off approximately 390 employees and close their main office at 200 N. LaSalle Street in Chicago by August. Despite the downsizing, the company said it intends to continue paying employees and vendors as usual throughout the reorganization process.

The companies’ owners, Apollo Global Management and Randstad NV, backed the decision to seek Chapter 11 protection. Apollo became the majority stakeholder after a merger deal in 2024.

A Digital Pioneer in Decline

CareerBuilder and Monster were pioneers in online recruiting during the early 2000s, once dominating the market before the rise of more adaptive platforms. In recent years, however, the companies struggled to keep pace with trends like AI-powered recruitment tools, mobile-first platforms, and social-media-integrated job matching.

Analysts say the bankruptcy marks a large shift in the employment services industry, with legacy platforms falling out of favor amid technological disruption and changing employer behavior.

The bankruptcy case is being overseen by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Kate Stickles.

What’s Next

The company hopes to complete its asset sales by the end of the summer. Court hearings to approve the stalking-horse bidders are expected in the coming weeks.

For now, both CareerBuilder and Monster remain operational, though the future of their brand identities remains uncertain as new ownership takes shape.

Houston Celebrates Pride Month 2025 with Full Lineup of Events

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Houston Celebrates Pride Month 2025 with Full Lineup of Events

Houston’s LGBTQ+ community is celebrating Pride Month with a vibrant schedule of events throughout June, spotlighting inclusivity, culture, and community.

Grand Marshal Reception – Sunday, June 15

Montrose Country Club will host a free afternoon event honoring the 2025 Grand Marshals. Guests can enjoy lite bites, a cash bar, and community recognition.

Location: 202 Tuam Street
Time: 1 to 5 p.m.

Rock The Runway – Wednesday, June 25

Pride Houston’s annual fashion show returns to Warehouse Live with LGBTQIA+ designers, models, and DJs in a night of style and performance.

Location: 2600 Travis Street
Time: 7 to 11 p.m.
Tickets: Starting at $16

Eden Girl+ Party – Friday, June 27

This inclusive celebration uplifts Houston’s LGBT+ women with music, empowerment, and fun at Warehouse Live.

Location: 2600 Travis Street
Time: Starts at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $15 plus fees

47th Annual Houston Pride Celebration – Saturday, June 28

The city’s signature Pride event features a day-long festival and evening parade in front of City Hall, drawing crowds in the hundreds of thousands. The parade is free but tickets to specific areas and the festival are available for purchase.

Festival Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Parade Time: 7 to 10 p.m.
Location: Houston City Hall

7th Annual Pride Brunch – Date TBA

Enjoy a festive brunch at The Heights Social with drinks and a drag performance by Mistress Isabelle Brooks of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Location: 1213 W 20th St, Houston, TX
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets: Drink tickets start at $15

For the latest updates and ticket info from pridehouston365.org., stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine as more events may be added throughout the month.

Trump Repeats Claim of “Total Obliteration” of Iran Nuclear Sites

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Trump Repeats Claim of “Total Obliteration” of Iran Nuclear Sites

At the NATO summit in the Netherlands, President Donald Trump declared again that U.S.-Israeli strikes had achieved the “total obliteration” of Iran’s nuclear program, contradicting early intelligence reports suggesting the damage may be temporary.

Trump dismissed Pentagon findings that Iran may have moved enriched uranium before the June 22 attacks, saying the operation acted fast enough to prevent such measures. He maintained the program is “gone for years.”

Mixed Signals from Israeli Sources on Nuclear Facility Damage

Israeli officials offered conflicting accounts of the airstrikes’ impact, especially on the Fordo enrichment facility. While some sources said the damage was underwhelming, another Israeli official insisted the site was “damaged beyond repair,” citing intelligence from human and cyber sources inside Iran. The source denied that enriched uranium was removed before the attack, claiming it was buried under rubble.

US Embassy in Jerusalem Resumes Operations Amid Ceasefire

With a ceasefire between Israel and Iran appearing to hold, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem lifted a shelter-in-place order for its personnel and resumed normal operations. Officials urged continued caution, especially amid the possibility of sudden rocket or drone attacks.

Trump Defends Airstrikes on Social Media

Trump took to social media to condemn news reports questioning the effectiveness of the Iran strikes, calling the mission “one of the most successful military strikes in history.” Intelligence assessments, however, continue to suggest Iran’s program may only be set back a few months.

Special Envoy Slams Leak of Strike Report

Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff labeled the leak of preliminary intelligence as “treasonous” and emphasized that the ceasefire was holding. He rejected the idea that Iran could quickly resume enrichment, saying it was “not even conceivable.”

Satellite Images Reveal Surface Damage to Nuclear Sites

Satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies shows damage at Fordo and Isfahan nuclear facilities, including cratered roads and bombed tunnel entrances. However, analysts noted these visuals don’t confirm destruction of underground structures critical to Iran’s program.

Senators Review Classified Report on Strike Damage

Key U.S. senators reviewed a classified report assessing the nuclear strikes. Lawmakers withheld details but raised concerns over whether Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles were truly destroyed. Some questioned the feasibility of penetrating Iran’s hardened underground sites.

IAEA Confirms Iran Nuclear Setback, But Duration Unclear

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated Iran’s nuclear capabilities had been “significantly” set back but could not confirm for how long. He stressed that without resumed inspections, it remains unclear where Iran’s enriched uranium is now located.

Two Holocaust Survivors Killed in Iranian Strikes on Israel

Two Holocaust survivors, aged 94 and 95, were killed during Iranian missile strikes on Israeli cities before the ceasefire. About 20 more survivors were displaced after missiles damaged their homes, according to Israeli authorities.

Initial Intelligence: Iran Nuclear Program Only Set Back Months

Early intelligence reviewed by ABC News indicated the U.S. strikes damaged above-ground infrastructure but failed to destroy enriched uranium or most centrifuges. While Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth maintained the mission’s success, the findings suggest Iran’s capabilities may recover sooner than claimed.

Tropical moisture brings even more downpours Wednesday

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Tropical moisture brings even more downpours Wednesday


HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Rain chances are increasing as tropical moisture surges into Houston on Wednesday. This tropical moisture will remain disorganized, but these storms could drop a quick inch or two of rain that floods streets along with frequent lightning strikes that could temporarily knock out the power. This type of pattern also can produce funnel clouds and waterspouts in the morning near the coast.

These storms will start to develop during the morning commute, and this early onset of the rain will keep highs for most only in the mid-to-upper 80s. The rain chances will drop during the afternoon from I-10 south, but the storm chances will climb north of I-10 for the afternoon. Those afternoon storms north of Houston could turn a bit stronger like some did late Tuesday. Remember, if you hear thunder roar, head indoors!

How much longer will this wet weather last?

The tropical moisture will start moving away Wednesday night, dropping the rain chance to 40%. By Friday and Saturday, drier air will take over dropping the rain chance to 20% or less. Another wave of tropical moisture will clip us on Sunday to bring the rain chance up to 40%, then the faucet will shut off for the first days of July.

What’s the early outlook for July 4th and the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

At this time it looks dry but hot! Temperatures will peak near 100 with heat index values well above 100.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Andrea, the first storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season formed over the Atlantic on Tuesday. A short-lived storm, it should dissipate by Wednesday. Meanwhile, another storm is threatening to form south of Mexico in the eastern Pacific. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Harris County Democrats Push to Oust Houston Mayor John Whitmire from Party

Edward Saenz
-
0
Harris County Democrats Push to Oust Houston Mayor John Whitmire from Party

A political rift is deepening within Houston’s Democratic leadership as approximately 30 Harris County Democratic precinct chairs call for the removal of Mayor John Whitmire from the party. At a press conference held Sunday, June 22, in the East End, precinct officials and community members accused the mayor of violating party principles and aligning too closely with Republican interests.

A Party Split in Public View

The most pointed criticism centered around Whitmire’s attendance at a Republican fundraiser in April for Congressman Dan Crenshaw. For precinct leaders, the appearance symbolized a broader pattern of bipartisan cooperation they see as betrayal.

“Anybody in the boat rowing in the opposite direction is not a teammate,” said precinct chair Cameron “Coach Cam” Campbell. “That moment was a moment when you were no longer our teammate.”

In response, the chairs drafted a formal resolution seeking Whitmire’s removal from the Democratic Party, citing internal rules against endorsing or aiding political opponents. The resolution also recommends that he be ineligible for future party endorsements.

Policy Moves Prompt Additional Backlash

Critics also highlighted the mayor’s perceived support for federal immigration enforcement measures resembling Trump-era policies, as well as budget priorities that diverge from Democratic values—particularly regarding infrastructure and policing.

While Whitmire’s office has not issued a direct response to the resolution, he has previously defended his bipartisan outreach as necessary for Houston’s broader interests. He has argued that working with leaders across party lines is key to effective governance in a city as diverse as Houston.

Recall Movement Gaining Steam

This party-led admonishment comes on the heels of a growing recall campaign. A grassroots group called Recall For Houston aims to gather more than 63,000 signatures to trigger a special election. Organizers cite frustrations over infrastructure delays, public safety concerns, and unresolved disputes with the fire department.

Whitmire has publicly dismissed the recall as “silly” and emphasized that he was elected to serve all Houstonians, not just party loyalists.

What’s Next?

This rare public rebuke marks a significant turning point for Houston politics. The intra-party tension not only signals fractures in local Democratic unity but could also shape the city’s 2026 electoral landscape. Whether the resolution gains formal party approval or the recall effort reaches the ballot, Whitmire’s leadership will remain under intense scrutiny.

1...221222223...956Page 222 of 956

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