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Juneteenth: A National Celebration of Freedom Rooted in Galveston, Texas

Indira Zaldivar
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Juneteenth: A National Celebration of Freedom Rooted in Galveston, Texas

From Galveston to the Nation

Juneteenth, now celebrated as a federal holiday, marks the day—June 19, 1865—when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

Former President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law in 2021, making it the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Biden described Juneteenth as “a day of profound weight and power,” honoring both the suffering and resilience of Black Americans. The federal recognition came after decades of grassroots advocacy, led in part by Opal Lee, a retired teacher from Texas known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.”

Galveston’s Enduring Legacy

Galveston mural honors the historic day where union soldiers arrived on the island and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans. Credit: Indira Zaldivar

As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston holds a powerful role in this national story. On that historic day, Union Major General Gordon Granger read General Order No. 3 from the steps of Ashton Villa, proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas. Today, Galveston honors this legacy with reenactments, educational programs, and cultural events, keeping the memory and meaning of Juneteenth alive for new generations.

Houston Celebrates Juneteenth in a Big Way

Houston, home to one of the largest African American populations in the U.S., offers a rich variety of Juneteenth events for all ages and interests. From educational workshops and dance parties to family festivals and parades, the city is embracing the spirit of liberation and community.

Here are some of the highlights:

1. Children’s Museum Houston | Juneteenth Celebration | 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Activities include Juneteenth crafts, a DJ dance party at 3:30 p.m., and drumming at 5:30 p.m.
Location: 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004

2. Emancipation Park | Juneteenth Family Fun Day | 12–4 p.m.
Live poetry, food trucks, cultural exhibits, and a pool day celebration.
Location: 3018 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004

3. Reedy Chapel | Juneteenth Emancipation March & Service | 12–8 p.m.
Includes family activities, a community march, and an evening service.
Location: 2015 Broadway Ave J, Galveston, TX 77550

4. Skylab Social Bar & Lounge | Juneteenth Jam | 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate with music and drinks.
Location: 4112 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007

5. Galveston | Juneteenth Parade & Picnic | Parade at 3 p.m.
Parade along Ball Street followed by a community picnic.
Location: Ball St from 26th to 41st, Galveston, TX 77550

6. Freedmen’s Town | Juneteenth 160 Festival | 1–8 p.m.
Yoga, art workshops, STEM activities, live music, and a dance party with Soul Control.
Location: Fourth Ward, Houston, TX 77019

7. Midtown & Museum Park | Juneteenth Almeda Bar Crawl | 3–8 p.m.
Bar hop with actor Kendrick Sampson as a special guest.
Start: 4501 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77004

8. Giant Texas Distillers | HBCU Social Exchange | 6 p.m.
Networking and socializing in honor of HBCU pride.
Location: 5610 Clinton Dr, Houston, TX 77020

9. Institute of Contemporary Dance | Juneteenth Dance Workshop | 11 a.m.
Celebrate freedom through movement.
Location: 1302 Houston Ave, Suite 3000, Houston, TX 77007

10. Spring Street Studios | Echoes of Emancipation: Juneteenth Fest | 7 p.m.
Art, music, and community conversations on liberation.
Location: 1824 Spring Street #4056, Houston, TX 77007

Celebrating Freedom Together

Whether you’re learning about the historical significance in Galveston or attending vibrant events across Houston, Juneteenth is a day to honor the journey toward freedom, reflect on our shared history, and celebrate the cultural contributions of Black Americans. From parades and poetry to dance and dialogue, Juneteenth continues to inspire generations to stand for equality and justice.

To learn more about cultural events, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Juneteenth will be hot with a slim chance for cooling showers

ABC13 Houston
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Juneteenth will be hot with a slim chance for cooling showers

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Juneteenth’s weather is going to look like a typical summer day: Hot with a small chance for a shower or thunderstorm.

We’re in for another steamy morning with temperatures starting in the upper 70s to low 80s. Temperatures are expected to warm to around 90 by noontime and peak out around 94 degrees in the afternoon. That hot, humid air could yield a few more showers and thunderstorms through the early evening.

When can we expect some drier weather?

Over the weekend a heat ridge glides by our part of Texas to push rain chances to just 10% both Saturday and Sunday. This hot, mostly dry pattern will be short-lived as another slug of Gulf moisture rolls in next week to bring back daily downpours.

Any triple-digit days on the horizon?

Not at this time. However, triple-digit heat indices will occur every day this week. Houston’s first 100-degree day is typically in the second half of July.

Will the rain chances continue next week?

Yep. In fact, rain chances will likely climb again next week as tropical moisture flows in around a major heat ridge over the northeastern part of the country. This type of pattern often produces funnel clouds and waterspouts in the morning near the coast.

What’s happening in the tropics?

At this time, the Atlantic basin is filled with a Saharan dust cloud, limiting tropical development and bringing a slightly hazy sky to Southeast Texas. Meanwhile, Hurricane Erick has rapidly intensified off the Pacific coast of Mexico. 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.

KP George Switches Parties Amid Money Laundering Charges

Que Onda Editorial
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KP George Switches Parties Amid Money Laundering Charges

Fort Bend County Judge KP George has officially left the Democratic Party to join the Republican Party, a move that coincides with ongoing legal troubles. George, who is facing felony and misdemeanor charges, announced the switch at a press conference, citing a disconnect between the Democratic Party and the values of local residents.

Shift in County Power

George’s defection gives Republicans a 3-2 majority on the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court, flipping the balance of power. Republican Party President Bobby Eberle welcomed the change, calling for “fair and balanced voting maps” to replace those drawn by Democrats in 2021.

Why George Switched

George said he could no longer align with a party he described as promoting a “corrupt and radical ideology.” He claimed the Republican Party better represents “faith, family and freedom,” and announced he will run for reelection in 2026 as a Republican.

Criminal Charges and Allegations

George faces a third-degree felony charge for alleged money laundering between $30,000 and $150,000 in early 2019, shortly after taking office. He claims the money was a legal reimbursement of a personal campaign loan and accused prosecutors of weaponizing the legal system.

In a separate case, George was indicted in 2024 for misrepresentation of identity. He’s accused of conspiring with former staffer Taral Patel to post fake racist comments on social media during his 2022 campaign to manipulate voter sentiment. Patel has pleaded guilty, but George maintains his innocence.

Public and Political Reaction

Reactions have been mixed. Republican Commissioner Andy Meyers pledged continued collaboration, while Democratic Judge Dexter McCoy called George “morally corrupt,” accusing him of betraying the public trust for personal gain.

George’s legal future and political prospects remain uncertain. He may face primary opposition in 2026, and the outcome of his court cases could heavily influence his chances of remaining in office.

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

Shakira announces date for re-scheduled San Antonio concert

Indira Zaldivar
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Shakira announces date for re-scheduled San Antonio concert

Shakira took to Instagram to announce the new date for her San Antonio concert, which was previously canceled due to technical setbacks “beyond” her control.

“I’ll be with my pack in San Antonio this July 5th to give you the show you deserve!” she wrote.

New San Antonio Date

The Colombian global superstar will perform at the Alamodome in San Antonio on July 5.

“Lo prometido es deuda. Estaré en San Antonio este 5 de julio para cumplirle a mi manada como se merece,” she wrote saying that she will fulfill the promises made to her pack as deserved.

Shakira in Houston

On Tuesday, Shakira wrapped up a successful two-night, sold-out run at Houston’s Toyota Center on Tuesday, as part of her world tour.

From the timeless “Hips Don’t Lie,” now celebrating its 20th anniversary, to “Antología” from her breakthrough “Pies Descalzos” 90s era, and her latest empowerment anthem “Soltera,” the 48-year-old star had the crowd dancing, crying, and howling in unison.

“Gracias por ser esa manada fiel que toda loba necesita,” she told fans during the opening night in Houston, thanking her loyal pack despite tour setbacks.

Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” World Tour

“See you soon, Texas!” she wrote in her post, bidding farewell as she heads to her next performance on June 22 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Shakira is currently in the midst of her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” world tour across the United States and Latin America, with the final show scheduled for Nov. 16 in Lima, Peru.

For more on Shakira and our bright Latino stars, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Biden to Attend Juneteenth Celebration in Galveston

Indira Zaldivar
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Biden to Attend Juneteenth Celebration in Galveston

Former President Joe Biden is set to join a Juneteenth celebration at the historic Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Galveston, Texas, The Associated Press reported. His attendance was confirmed by a source familiar with the plans, though not authorized to speak publicly.

A Key Role in Juneteenth History

In 2021, Biden signed the law making Juneteenth a federal holiday. The day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston and announced the end of slavery—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Galveston mural honors Juneteenth as the island is where the original freedom order was read to enslaved people in 1865. Credit: Indira Zaldivar.

Historic Church Hosts the Event

Thursday’s event will take place at Reedy Chapel AME Church, the oldest African Methodist Episcopal church still operating in Texas. It is one of the historic sites where the original freedom order was read to enslaved people in 1865.

Keep up with updates on this story with Que Onda Magazine.

Houston Council Proposes New Transparency Rules for City Projects

Edward Saenz
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Houston Council Proposes New Transparency Rules for City Projects

Houston City Council Member Julian Ramirez introduced a set of amendments aimed at increasing transparency around the city’s $16.7 billion Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), officials said Tuesday.

The proposed measures would require monthly reports from Mayor John Whitmire’s office detailing any changes to CIP projects, including cancellations, delays or alterations. The amendments also would allow council members to formally object to project changes in their districts if supported by at least three council members.

Additionally, the proposal calls for mandatory public hearings on procurement decisions tied to CIP projects to enhance community involvement.

Ramirez, joined by Council Member Abbie Kamin, said the goal is to improve communication and accountability in the city’s infrastructure planning and not to criticize the mayor’s office.

“The intent is to strengthen governance under Houston’s strong-mayor system,” Ramirez said.

The CIP outlines key infrastructure improvements, including storm drainage, fire stations and water systems, over a five-year period. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of notification when projects are altered or canceled.

The City Council is expected to vote on the proposed amendments alongside the CIP on June 25.

Houston Methodist Performs Lifesaving Double Lung Transplant for COVID Survivor

Edward Saenz
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Houston Methodist Performs Lifesaving Double Lung Transplant for COVID Survivor

A 33-year-old COVID-19 survivor is breathing easier after undergoing a lifesaving double lung transplant at Houston Methodist Hospital, capping off a remarkable medical journey that included six months on a heart-lung machine.

Andrew Capen spent half a year on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, one of the longest durations recorded globally. ECMO is typically used as a last-resort life support system for patients with severe lung or heart failure.

Under the care of Dr. Eddie Suarez and Houston Methodist’s lung transplant team, Capen received donor lungs earlier this year. He is now on the road to recovery and says he is deeply grateful for the gift of life.

“I’m not gonna waste them,” Capen said of his new lungs.

Houston Methodist, which performed its first lung transplant in 1987, operates one of the busiest lung transplant programs in the nation. The hospital is known for taking on complex cases and for its use of innovative surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted procedures.

Online, other patients and families shared their own stories of recovery, praising the hospital’s care.

“My mom received a double lung transplant at Methodist and couldn’t be more happy with her team,” one user wrote on Reddit. “She is doing much better… going from basically dying to running errands with my dad and learning how to crochet.”

Another person added: “They saved my husband’s life… They transplant sicker patients than other hospitals, and successfully.”

The hospital continues to collaborate with organ procurement organizations such as LifeGift to improve donor availability and promote equity in transplantation.

Capen’s case is being hailed as an example of how medical innovation and patient resilience can combine to achieve extraordinary outcomes.

Conroe-Based FluxWorks Secures State Grant to Advance Magnetic Gear Technology for Space

Edward Saenz
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Conroe-Based FluxWorks Secures State Grant to Advance Magnetic Gear Technology for Space

CONROE, Texas (June 17, 2025) — FluxWorks Inc., a growing aerospace and defense startup headquartered in Conroe, has been awarded up to $347,000 by the Texas Space Commission to support the development of its innovative magnetic gear system for space applications. The grant is part of a broader $20.7 million state initiative to boost Texas’ space technology sector.

The funding will help FluxWorks prepare its magnetic gear technology for testing aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2026. The project aims to demonstrate how magnetic gears — which use magnetic forces rather than traditional gear teeth — can offer more efficient, quieter, and low-maintenance performance in the extreme environment of space.

From Texas A&M Lab to Conroe Factory

Founded by Dr. Bryton Praslicka, a Texas A&M University Ph.D. graduate, FluxWorks spun out of academic research focused on magnetic gear systems. The technology eliminates friction between gear teeth, delivering up to 99% efficiency with no need for lubrication — features ideal for aerospace, defense, robotics, and subsea energy systems.

FluxWorks gained national attention in 2023 when it won the Rice Business Plan Competition grand prize of $350,000. The company has since opened a 9,000-square-foot facility in Conroe, bringing design, manufacturing, and testing operations under one roof. The expansion has been supported by state and local leaders, including the Greater Houston Partnership and Governor Greg Abbott’s economic development office.

Building Partnerships and Momentum

In addition to the Texas Space Commission grant, FluxWorks has attracted funding and partnerships from:

  • The U.S. Army, with about $1.9 million in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts to adapt its magnetic gear technology for military applications.
  • NASA, to develop gearboxes for future lunar rovers designed to withstand harsh environments on the Moon.
  • Boeing and CASIS, through a MassChallenge Space Tech Prize supporting the upcoming ISS mission.

The company has also achieved federal security certifications, positioning it for work with NASA’s Johnson Space Center and key defense contractors.

A Bright Future for Texas Space Innovation

FluxWorks projects $1.8 million in revenue for 2025, with clients ranging from defense startups to government agencies. The ISS mission will provide crucial flight data as the company aims to commercialize its gear systems for a range of demanding environments.

“The Texas Space Commission’s investment not only accelerates our path to spaceflight testing, but reinforces the state’s role as a national leader in space technology and advanced manufacturing,” said Dr. Praslicka in a statement.

As Texas continues to position itself as a hub for space exploration and aerospace manufacturing, FluxWorks’ success highlights the growing ecosystem of innovative hardware startups contributing to that vision.

CenterPoint Energy, Houston-Area Cities Reach $3.2 Billion Deal for Grid Resiliency Upgrades

Edward Saenz
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CenterPoint Energy, Houston-Area Cities Reach $3.2 Billion Deal for Grid Resiliency Upgrades

HOUSTON, Texas (June 17, 2025) — CenterPoint Energy and a coalition of Houston-area cities have reached a landmark $3.2 billion agreement aimed at fortifying the region’s power grid against extreme weather and future outages. The deal, announced Tuesday, comes in the wake of growing concerns about the grid’s reliability following major storm events.

The proposed plan, which still requires approval from the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUCT), focuses on targeted resiliency investments between 2026 and 2028. The initiative is expected to reduce outage durations and impacts for CenterPoint’s 2.8 million customers.

Strengthening the Grid

The agreement calls for:

  • The installation of 130,000 stronger utility poles, representing about 10% of CenterPoint’s total poles.
  • Expanding underground power lines from roughly 46% of the network to 50%, helping reduce exposure to wind and falling trees.
  • Accelerating vegetation management, with tree-trimming cycles shortened from five years to three years.

Company officials say these measures could prevent nearly 1 billion minutes of customer outages by 2029 and will help limit the size of areas affected by service disruptions.

Ratepayer Impact

To fund the project, CenterPoint estimates an average residential customer will see a $1.40 per month increase on their bill each year from 2026 through 2028, followed by an additional 60 cents per month in 2030. The company will earn a 9.65% return on most of the resiliency-related investments.

Importantly, the final plan drops about $2 billion in transmission-only projects that were part of earlier proposals, following feedback from city officials and regulators who urged a sharper focus on resilience.

A Response to Past Failures

CenterPoint’s grid performance came under scrutiny after Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which left 2.2 million customers without power. The company initially proposed a $2.7 billion upgrade package, later revising it to $5.75 billion before settling on the more focused $3.2 billion deal.

“We heard the concerns of our customers and city leaders,” a CenterPoint spokesperson said. “This plan represents a balanced, cost-effective approach to making our infrastructure stronger and more reliable.”

Next Steps

The PUCT will review and vote on the settlement in the coming months. If approved, work could begin in early 2026, with major components completed by 2028.

In addition to the resiliency package, CenterPoint is also expanding its investment in battery energy storage, including a 160-megawatt/320-megawatt-hour facility slated for completion this summer. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernize and secure Houston’s energy infrastructure amid rising demand and climate challenges.

Shakira graces Houston’s Toyota Center for 2 nights

Indira Zaldivar
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Shakira graces Houston’s Toyota Center for 2 nights

The “Hips Don’t Lie” star had the Houston she-wolf pack dancing, crying, and howling in unison during a performance that pays tribute to her iconic 34-year-old music career.

Colombian global superstar Shakira wrapped up her time in Space City on Tuesday night, delivering two back-to-back sold-out shows at Houston’s Toyota Center.

After a triumphant opening on Monday, the Queen of Latin Music left her she-wolf pack howling with delight, dazzling the crowd with a magical performance during her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” world tour.

“Hello Houston, ¿cómo está mi gente?” Shakira beamed after dancing her way through the floor-level crowd to kick off two hours of iconic choreography, dynamic outfit changes, and soulful, empowering vocals.

Dressed in a sleeveless sparkly pink mini dress (one of her many outfits for the night), she greeted fans with heartfelt excitement.

“It’s so incredible to be here reunited with all of you,” she said. “To be here in Texas, I’ve been counting the days—this is a dream.”

“There’s absolutely no better feeling than when a she-wolf is back with her pack.”

Acknowledging recent setbacks “beyond her control”, including the cancellation of her San Antonio concert, that’s now been re-scheduled to July 5th, Shakira expressed deep gratitude for her fans’ patience and loyalty.

“Gracias por ser esa manada fiel que toda loba necesita,” she said.

“Estos días no han sido nada fáciles para mí por las cancelaciones que se han dado por las fallas técnicas que están fuera de mi control. No hay nada peor para un artista que no poder tocar cuando sabes que hay un estadio lleno esperando por ti; no hay nada peor.”

With fans ranging from children to lifelong supporters, Shakira guided the multi-generational crowd through three decades of genre-defining hits that transcended languages and borders.

“Houston, mi gente, esta noche y siempre somos uno.”

From the timeless “Hips Don’t Lie,” now celebrating its 20th anniversary, to “Antología” from her breakthrough “Pies Descalzos” 90s era, and her latest empowerment anthem “Soltera,” the 48-year-old star had the crowd dancing, crying, and howling in unison.

She closed the show the same way she started—walking among her fans to the viral hit “BZRP Music Sessions #53,” radiating empowerment with every beat, lyric, and fierce movement.

“Te quiero mucho, Houston,” she shouted with a wave, bidding “hasta luego” from the catwalk as she descended and disappeared from view.

Shakira is on tour across the U.S. and Latin America through Nov. 16

For more on the Queen of Latin Music, Shakira, and other Latino stars, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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