82 F
Houston
Monday, May 19, 2025

Home Blog Page 256

Houston Organizations Rally to Provide Free Food and Holiday Cheer to Families in Need

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Houston Organizations Rally to Provide Free Food and Holiday Cheer to Families in Need

As the holiday season approaches, numerous organizations in the Houston area are coming together to ensure that families experience the joy of the season, even if that means putting food on the table for those in need.

Several food distribution events are scheduled across the city, offering not only healthy, balanced meals but also essential personal care items. Here’s where families can access free food during the holidays:

Christmas Super Feast by City Wide Club
On Saturday, December 23, the George R. Brown Convention Center will host the Christmas Super Feast, organized by the City Wide Club. This event, renowned as the nation’s largest feeding and turkey distribution, offers a dine-in option or pick-up-and-go service, ensuring families can enjoy a festive meal during the holiday season.

Catholic Charities Food Distributions
The Catholic Charities: Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is organizing multiple food distributions at the Guadalupe Family Assistance Center before and after Christmas. Located at 326 S Jensen Dr., Houston, TX, the distributions are scheduled on:

  • December 19: 9 to 11 a.m.
  • December 20: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • December 21: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • December 26: 9 to 11 a.m.
  • December 27: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • December 28: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    First-time clients are required to bring a photo ID and a bill confirming their address.

India House Houston Free Food Distribution
In partnership with the Houston Food Bank, India House Houston will host a free food distribution event on Wednesday, December 27, from 10 to 11 a.m. at 8888 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX. The distribution will include fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and packaged foods.

West Houston Assistance Ministries Drive-Thru Distribution
Leading up to the holiday season, the West Houston Assistance Ministries will conduct weekly drive-thru distributions, providing attendees with boxes containing fresh produce, protein, and other groceries. The last distribution before Christmas will be on Wednesday, December 20, from 8 to 10 a.m. (or until supplies run out) at 10501 Meadowglen Lane, Houston, TX. Personal care items are available upon request and availability.

Target Hunger Food Fair
Target Hunger is organizing a drive-thru food fair distribution right before Christmas on Thursday, December 21, at the Valero on 9701 Manchester, Houston, TX. Participants are required to complete a registration form for this event.

These initiatives reflect the community’s commitment to supporting one another during the holiday season, ensuring that no family goes without a warm meal and holiday cheer.

Texas Longhorns and Houston Cougars Secure Wins in The Halal Guys Showcase, Eyeing March Madness Success

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas Longhorns and Houston Cougars Secure Wins in The Halal Guys Showcase, Eyeing March Madness Success

In a compelling display of college basketball prowess at the Toyota Center, the Texas Longhorns and Houston Cougars emerged victorious in The Halal Guys Showcase, setting the stage for potential success in the upcoming men’s NCAA tournament.

The Longhorns and Cougars, both narrowly missing a chance at the Final Four earlier this year, showcased their dominance as favored teams on Saturday. Texas delivered an impressive first-half performance, accumulating 56 points and securing a 95-86 win against the LSU Tigers. Meanwhile, Houston faced a late surge from Texas A&M guard Wade Taylor IV but managed to clinch a narrow 70-66 victory.

For Houston, the path to victory once again relied on their stifling defense, a trademark of Kelvin Sampson’s squad. Boasting an 11-0 record in the 2023-24 season, the Cougars showcased the formula that has made them a force in college basketball—a tenacious defense, efficient offense, and a blend of frontcourt strength and backcourt scoring prowess. Guard Emanuel Sharp emphasized the significance of playing in high-stakes games like The Halal Guys Showcase.

“We want to play in big games like this,” Sharp stated.

The Cougars, eyeing their second Final Four appearance in the last four seasons, showcased their defensive prowess by limiting Texas A&M to 23 first-half points and forcing eight turnovers. Key contributors LJ Cryer and Emanuel Sharp demonstrated their scoring capabilities, with Cryer sinking four threes in a 17-point effort, while Sharp contributed 19 points, including two crucial three-pointers.

Houston’s defensive efficiency, ranked as the best in college basketball by KenPom metrics, bodes well for their tournament prospects. With a top-four seed in the NCAA tournament bracket likely, the Cougars appear to be genuine Final Four contenders.

On the other hand, Texas faces a more uncertain future. Missing their top three scorers from last year’s Elite Eight team, the Longhorns, led by veteran guard Max Abmas, are still in the process of fine-tuning their closing lineup and rotation, according to coach Rodney Terry. However, the Longhorns displayed their potential as a Final Four contender, particularly with the return of versatile scorer Dylan Disu, who made his season debut on Saturday.

While Houston seems to be a bonafide Final Four contender, Texas stands on the fringe, with their success in March Madness hinging on finding the right formula. Both teams navigated the challenges presented at the professional environment of the Toyota Center, securing victories that could be crucial in sustaining their seasons as they look ahead to the intensity of March Madness.

Texans Express Cautious Optimism as Governor Abbott and Energy Leaders Assure Winter Grid Readiness

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texans Express Cautious Optimism as Governor Abbott and Energy Leaders Assure Winter Grid Readiness

In a press conference on Thursday, Governor Greg Abbott and energy leaders declared that the Texas power grid is now winter-ready and better prepared than ever, seeking to reassure the public just two years after a winter freeze caused a grid failure. Despite their assurances, some customers, including homeowners Mary Baker and Gloria Contreras, expressed a mix of hope and hesitation, acknowledging the surprise factor of the previous failure.

“I don’t expect it, but that was a surprise, and I could be surprised again,” remarked homeowner Mary Baker. Gloria Contreras admitted, “I don’t know. I’m a little scared, but I’m hoping everything works out.”

While acknowledging past mistakes, those interviewed by ABC13 expressed a desire to believe that lessons have been learned, and preparations are in place for the upcoming winter, a sentiment echoed by Governor Abbott, energy providers, and ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) leaders.

“In regards to the winter, I want to assure everybody that we are ready,” stated Calpine CEO Thad Hill. ERCOT reported the addition of 3,000 megawatts to the grid in 2023, providing power for approximately 600,000 homes. The council has also introduced new inspectors and completed inspections at 1,500 facilities, with plans for an additional 500 inspections this year.

Governor Abbott emphasized the state’s readiness, stating, “Texans should know, as we approach January and February, it’s going to get colder, and Texas and the grid are better prepared than we’ve ever been.”

ABC13 learned that ERCOT is not only focusing on the current winter but also preparing for future seasons. A new natural gas plant, slated to be operational in 2026 in Freestone County, was announced to address the growing Texas population and increased demand on the grid. The plant is expected to generate power for an additional 85,000 homes.

“This is an important project. This is really good for the state of Texas. It reflects the progress the state is making in encouraging the energy resources of the state. Texas has always been and always will be a leader in energy investments, and this is a representation of that innovation moving forward,” remarked ERCOT’s CEO Pablo Vegas.

Congressional Latinos Express Concerns Over Biden Administration’s Border Security Talks

Que Onda Editorial
-
0

In a significant development, prominent Latino members of Congress have voiced their reservations regarding the Biden administration’s approach to border security talks, raising questions about the exclusion of pathways to citizenship for long-term immigrants without proper legal documentation. Democratic Senator Alex Padilla of California and Senator Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico initially raised concerns privately, engaging in constant communication with administration officials to seek clarification on the absence of meaningful considerations for citizenship pathways in Senate negotiations.

Despite their efforts, when the talks failed to address their concerns, these influential lawmakers shifted to open opposition. Senator Padilla emphasized, “A return to Trump-era policies is not the fix; in fact, it will make the problem worse.” Notably, Padilla took the opportunity to caution President Joe Biden personally at a fundraiser in California, urging him to be wary of adopting harmful policies.

The Latino senators find themselves in a complex position amid ongoing debates over immigration, particularly as President Biden aims to address border challenges as part of a broader $110 billion package for Ukraine, Israel, and national security. The negotiations, crucially timed as bargainers race to draft a framework by the weekend, have come under scrutiny from both Republicans and members of the Democratic party.

While criticism has been directed at the administration’s handling of border and immigration issues, pro-immigration changes such as providing permanent legal status to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, commonly known as “Dreamers,” remain off the negotiating table. Senators Padilla, Luján, and Bob Menendez voiced their concerns prominently at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus news conference, condemning Senate Republicans for linking border policy changes to Ukraine aid and criticizing Biden for concessions that, according to them, undermine the United States’ welcoming stance toward immigrants.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has assured Senator Padilla and others access to proposals before a final agreement, but Latino lawmakers have largely been excluded from the core negotiating group. During a call with the Hispanic Caucus, White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas engaged with concerned lawmakers.

The Biden administration faces pressure from various angles, including criticism over border management, the looming threat of far-right immigration measures promised by former President Donald Trump, and the connection of the issue to the broader goal of supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russia. With the White House and Senate leaders aiming for a border deal framework by Sunday, the complexity of U.S. immigration law adds challenges to the negotiations.

While recent discussions hinted at the inclusion of provisions legalizing young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children, progress has been hindered by the intricate nature of immigration law. The bipartisan group acknowledges the likelihood of losing votes from both ends of the political spectrum. As the negotiations intensify, immigration advocates rally against proposed changes, likening them to Trump-era measures and emphasizing potential negative consequences for individuals fleeing persecution.

Key considerations include policies that may allow border officials to send migrants back to Mexico without asylum opportunities, a move criticized for potential exploitation by dangerous cartels. Advocates argue that such measures could make the border region more chaotic and dangerous, with implications for the large-scale detention of migrants at a substantial cost. Leading House Democrats, including Representatives Nanette Barragán, Pramila Jayapal, Veronica Escobar, and Jerry Nadler, have joined the chorus of concerns, highlighting the potential lasting impact on Latino voter support should concessions be made without benefiting Dreamers and essential workers.

Houston Texans Secure Thrilling Overtime Victory Against Tennessee Titans

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Houston Texans Secure Thrilling Overtime Victory Against Tennessee Titans

In a nail-biting matchup on Sunday, the Houston Texans emerged victorious over the Tennessee Titans with a final score of 19-16, thanks to Ka’imi Fairbairn’s game-winning field goal as time expired.

The game’s first half saw the Titans taking an early lead, capitalizing on a Texans three-and-out as quarterback Will Levis orchestrated a scoring drive, finishing it off with a touchdown run. The Titans extended their lead with a pick-six off Keenum, showcasing their defensive prowess.

Despite a challenging start, the Texans’ defense stepped up, preventing further scoring opportunities for the Titans. Houston managed to put points on the board just before halftime with a field goal, narrowing the deficit to 13-3.

The second half proved to be a turning point for the Texans. The defense continued its stellar performance, highlighted by a crucial interception by Stephen Nelson on a Levis pass, leading to a successful field goal attempt and bringing the score to 13-6.

The Texans’ offense then came to life, with quarterback Keenum connecting with Noah Brown for a touchdown pass that leveled the score at 16-16. The game headed into overtime, setting the stage for Fairbairn’s game-deciding field goal that sealed the 19-16 victory for Houston.

The thrilling Sunday showdown showcased the Texans’ resilience and determination, marking a significant win in overtime against their division rivals, the Tennessee Titans.

Quaker Oats Recalls Granola Bars and Cereals Over Salmonella Concern

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Quaker Oats Recalls Granola Bars and Cereals Over Salmonella Concern

In response to potential salmonella contamination, Quaker Oats, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, has issued a recall for numerous granola bars and granola cereals, urging consumers to dispose of the affected products immediately. The recall, announced on Friday and confirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), includes various flavors of Quaker Big Chewy Bars, variety packs, and Quaker Simply Granola cereals.

The impacted products were distributed in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan, according to the FDA. Consumers are advised not to consume any of the recalled Quaker items and to contact Quaker Consumer Relations at 1-800-492-9322 or visit www.quakergranolarecall.com for more information or product reimbursement.

Salmonella, a bacterium that can lead to foodborne illness, may contaminate food during handling if proper hygiene measures are not followed, warns the FDA. The bacteria is commonly transmitted through raw or undercooked foods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the U.S. each year.

Symptoms of salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, manifesting between six hours and six days after exposure. More severe cases may present with aches, headaches, elevated fever, lethargy, rashes, or blood in urine or stool, and in rare instances, the infection can be fatal.

Quaker Oats, in its statement on the recall, did not provide specific details on how the potential contamination occurred. However, the company assured that there have been no confirmed reports of illnesses associated with the recalled products.

The recall encompasses several dozen products, including granola bars, granola cereals, and variety packs that may contain different bars. Some of the affected products listed in the recall include Quaker Big Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip, Quaker Chewy Bars Dark Chocolate Chunk, Quaker Chewy Bars Less Sugar Variety packs, Quaker Chewy Dipps Peanut Butter bars, Quaker Puffed Granola Apple Cinnamon Cereal, Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey, Raisins & Almonds Cereal, Quaker Protein Granola Oats, Chocolate, & Almonds Flavor, and Frito-Lay Chips and Quaker Chewy Granola Bars Variety Pack.

For a complete list of the recalled products, along with their UPC codes, consumers are advised to visit the official Quaker Granola recall site.

Impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton Incurs $4.2 Million in Taxpayer Expenses

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas A.G. Ken Paxton Tries to Block Court-Approved Abortion - The New York Times

The impeachment proceedings against Attorney General Ken Paxton have reportedly cost Texas taxpayers a staggering $4.2 million, with the House of Representatives disclosing records that shed light on the substantial expenses incurred during the legal battle.

In a batch of records released on Wednesday, invoices from the law firms of prominent Houston attorneys Rusty Hardin and Dick DeGuerin, who spearheaded the case against Paxton, topped $3.5 million. These legal fees represent the most significant expenses disclosed by the House in response to public information requests. The House had additional expenses of approximately $200,000, most of which had been previously disclosed.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick stated on Thursday that the Senate’s expenditure related to Paxton’s impeachment amounted to “roughly $435,000,” bringing the known total between the two chambers to over $4 million. However, the actual total could be higher, as the House has not yet disclosed invoices from other lawyers involved in Paxton’s case.

Paxton and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick had been urging the House to release the expenses since the Senate, led by Patrick, acquitted Paxton in September after a trial. The state auditor is currently reviewing the spending at the lieutenant governor’s request.

While the impeachment lawyers defend the expenses as essential for pursuing justice, Paxton and his allies argue that it was a misuse of taxpayer money, given the trial’s ultimate outcome.

In response to the latest spending figures, Paxton stated, “This is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether it’s the House costs, Senate costs, or the overall impeachment session costs, many millions more were incurred on [House Speaker] Dade Phelan’s sham and needless impeachment.”

House Speaker Dade Phelan defended the House’s impeachment efforts, emphasizing its role in exposing Paxton’s actions and preserving the public’s trust. Rep. Andrew Murr, chair of the House board of impeachment managers, justified the costs, stating, “The future of Texas’s governance, rooted in trust and transparency, justifies this expenditure, reinforcing the belief that the foundations of our democracy are worth every penny.”

The Senate has yet to respond to public information requests for its detailed spending, but Lt. Gov. Patrick criticized the House for excessive spending, claiming the Senate had protected taxpayer money.

Paxton’s legal defense costs, which he claims exceeded $4 million, have not been disclosed regarding the source of funds, with Paxton emphasizing that no taxpayer money was used. The newly revealed expenses, particularly the substantial legal fees from Hardin and DeGuerin’s firms, have intensified the debate over the financial aspects of Paxton’s impeachment.

Texans Roster Faces Key Setbacks Ahead of Crucial Week 15 Clash with Titans

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texans Roster Faces Key Setbacks Ahead of Crucial Week 15 Clash with Titans

The Houston Texans are grappling with a spate of injuries to key players on their roster following a disappointing 30-6 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday. As they gear up for a crucial Week 15 matchup against the Tennessee Titans on December 17, the Texans find themselves without the services of two standout rookies, defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and quarterback CJ Stroud.

Anderson has been absent from consecutive practices due to an ankle injury, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. On the other hand, Stroud, who left during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s loss, is currently navigating the NFL’s concussion protocol, a process that involves multiple stages. According to Eyewitness News, Stroud’s completion of the protocol before Sunday appears unlikely.

Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke expressed the team’s commitment to giving Anderson every opportunity to recover, acknowledging the challenge of losing a key player like the promising Alabama star.

In addition to Anderson and Stroud, the Texans’ injury list includes wide receiver Nico Collins (calf), offensive tackle George Fant (hip), linebacker Blake Cashman (hamstring), and cornerback Tavierre Thomas (hamstring). Rookie wide receiver Tank Dell suffered a season-ending left fibula fracture earlier this month.

Despite the setbacks, there is a silver lining for the Texans as kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn is poised to make his return. Fairbairn has been absent since Week 9, with kicker Matt Ammendola filling in. Tight end Dalton Schultz is also set to return from a hamstring injury.

Currently sitting on the brink of the playoffs as the No. 8 seed in a six-way tie at 7-6, the Texans remain optimistic about their postseason aspirations. Notably, the team has made playoff tickets available to season ticket holders, signaling the organization’s confidence in a potential playoff berth as they navigate the challenges posed by injuries to key players.

Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Revealed as Autopsy Shows Ketamine-Related Factors

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Matthew Perry’s Cause of Death Revealed as Autopsy Shows Ketamine-Related Factors
Matthew Perry smiling

The recently released autopsy report from the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner has disclosed that actor Matthew Perry, best known for his role in “Friends,” died due to the “acute effects of ketamine.” Perry, aged 54, passed away on October 28 after an apparent drowning incident in a hot tub at his residence in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles.

The autopsy report outlined that along with the ketamine-related effects, Perry’s death was influenced by “coronary artery disease” and the effects of the medication buprenorphrine. The report also noted the discovery of “prescription medications and loose pills” at his residence.

Contrary to speculation, the autopsy confirmed the absence of substances such as alcohol, methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, PCP, and fentanyl. The report specified that Perry had trace amounts of ketamine in his stomach contents, although the exact method of intake remained unknown.

Perry had reportedly undergone “ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety,” with his last known treatment occurring more than a week before his demise. However, the medical examiner ruled out that the ketamine in his system at the time of death could be attributed to the therapy, given ketamine’s short half-life of 3 to 4 hours.

Ketamine, described as a dissociative anesthetic drug with established medical and surgical applications, has a history of use in veterinary surgery. Dr. Michael Baden, former chief medical examiner of New York City and a forensic pathologist, explained that ketamine was initially employed for surgeries on horses but later gained popularity among humans, albeit with hallucinatory side effects.

Speaking exclusively to Fox News Digital, Dr. Baden expressed surprise at the presence of ketamine in Perry’s autopsy report, noting that Perry had not previously been associated with this particular substance during his battles with addiction. Dr. Baden emphasized Perry’s efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and highlighted that ketamine was not among the drugs the actor had been known to abuse during his public struggles with addiction.

Texas Takes Ranks High on Spots for April 8 Solar Eclipse, Showcasing Diverse Viewing Opportunities

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Texas Takes Ranks High on Spots for April 8 Solar Eclipse, Showcasing Diverse Viewing Opportunities

As the world eagerly anticipates the solar eclipse on April 8, Texas emerges as a prime destination for celestial enthusiasts, joining the ranks of global locations such as Sierra Leone, the Yucatán Peninsula, and Pompeii. The Lone Star State, with sections in the path of totality, promises a unique viewing experience, with only Miami, Florida, and the state of New York securing spots alongside Texas on National Geographic’s coveted list.

While Houston may not feature prominently in eclipse-watchers’ recommendations, the focal point of totality is anticipated near Del Rio, tracing a path northeastward across the state. Nevertheless, Houston residents can still witness a near-total eclipse, with 94 percent of the sun veiled during the celestial event.

Beyond Houston, a multitude of locations across the state is poised to offer a twilight-like spectacle as the moon aligns itself between the Earth and the sun. Texas State Parks highlights 31 parks within the path of totality, including iconic sites like McKinney Falls, Enchanted Rock, and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

Adding to the excitement, Burnet, Texas, will host the Texas Eclipse Festival, featuring live music, art exhibitions, and camping activities centered around the eclipse day. Scientists are also gearing up for groundbreaking experiments, with NASA planning to capture images of the moon’s shadow, analyze the chemical composition of the sun’s dust ring (corona), and observe the impact of solar radiation on Earth’s atmosphere.

For those seeking a unique perspective from the skies, Southwest Airlines is offering special flights aligning with the direct or partial path of the eclipse.

Texas’ inclusion in National Geographic’s eclipse-watching destinations coincides with a booming period in the state’s travel and tourism sector. In 2022, visitors to and within Texas contributed a staggering $91.7 billion, making a significant $187.5 billion impact on the state’s economy. As the world turns its eyes to Texas for this celestial phenomenon, the state is set to showcase not only its astronomical wonders but also its diverse range of viewing opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

1...255256257...715Page 256 of 715

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