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Montgomery County takes over $193M Old Conroe Road project, Conroe scraps plan over funding

Edward Saenz
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0
Montgomery County takes over $193M Old Conroe Road project, Conroe scraps plan over funding

Conroe city officials have canceled a $193 million project to extend Old Conroe Road due to a lack of funding commitment from Montgomery County, opting instead to focus on critical water and sewer infrastructure needs. While the city secured federal funds to cover most of the cost, they were still responsible for approximately $40 million. City officials expressed concerns about the financial risk without county partnership, especially given the city’s urgent water infrastructure issues. Despite having already spent $4.7 million on the project, the city estimated an additional $42.5 million would be required due to the county’s uncertain involvement.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough, however, stated that the county is committed to moving forward with the Old Conroe Road extension in collaboration with Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley. Keough emphasized the importance of the project and the potential loss of significant federal funding from the Houston-Galveston Area Council if the project were abandoned.

The 5.7-mile collaborative project between Conroe and the Texas Department of Transportation aimed to connect Sgt. Ed Holcombe Boulevard and Old Conroe Road with a bridge over the West Fork of the San Jacinto River and Lake Creek. Conroe officials noted that only a small portion of the project lies within city limits, suggesting the county would be the primary beneficiary. Mayor Pro Tem Harry Hardman indicated that the county’s recent approval of a substantial bond without allocating funds for this project effectively forced Conroe’s decision.

Record-scorching heat wave coming to Texas this week

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Record-scorching heat wave coming to Texas this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Do yourself a favor and enjoy Monday morning because it’s probably our last dip into the 50s until we get to the other side of summer. A major May heat wave is incoming this week that will feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May.

We’ll enjoy a crisp northwest breeze through the night that will send morning lows down into the upper 50s to start off our work and school week. The upper low that brought our lovely Mother’s Day weekend weather will start pulling away during the day and taking the clouds along with it. All the sunshine should allow temperatures to easily warm into the mid 80s, which is a typical mid-May reading.

Ozone pollution could be high enough to cause issues for folks sensitive to the lung irritant. Asthma attacks and a dry cough of possible in sensitive individuals.

Monday night the Gulf breeze will return to push lows temperatures back into the mid 60s, which is again another seasonal reading. Starting Tuesday, the May heat wave will make its presence know and stick around for the rest of the week.

A May heat wave?! How hot are we talking?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be tied or broken Tuesday through Friday. Additionally, it will be humid enough to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. We cannot rule out a stray shower for Friday and Saturday, but the stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Israel Pauses Gaza Fighting Ahead of US Hostage Edan Alexander’s Release

Edward Saenz
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0
Israel Pauses Gaza Fighting Ahead of US Hostage Edan Alexander’s Release

Israel has agreed to temporarily halt military operations in Gaza on Monday to facilitate the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander, who has been held by Hamas since October 7, 2023.

Combat Pause for Safe Transfer

According to Israeli security officials, the pause in combat, airstrikes, and aerial surveillance will take place in the area where Alexander is set to be released. The pause will last until he safely crosses into Israeli territory, a process expected to take less than 30 minutes.

Who Is Edan Alexander?

Alexander, born in New Jersey, moved to Israel at 18 and joined the Israel Defense Forces. He was just 19 years old when captured during Hamas’ surprise attack on his base near the Gaza border. He is the last known living American held hostage by Hamas. U.S. officials believe the group is also holding the remains of four dead American citizens.

A Step Toward Ceasefire Talks

Hamas announced its intent to release Alexander on Sunday, calling it “part of the steps being taken to achieve a ceasefire.” The group had been in direct talks with U.S. officials in recent days. President Donald Trump praised the move on Truth Social, calling it “the first of those final steps necessary to end this brutal conflict.”

Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler confirmed he would accompany Alexander’s mother during the retrieval of her son.

Limited Progress in Negotiations

While the U.S. welcomed Alexander’s pending release as a goodwill gesture and a possible opening for broader peace negotiations, officials confirmed they were unable to secure the return of the four deceased American hostages.

Family Pleads for All Hostages’ Return

In a statement, Alexander’s family said they remain in close contact with U.S. officials and emphasized that “it is forbidden to leave any hostage behind.” They urged Israel to work urgently to bring home the remaining 58 hostages.

Background on the Conflict

Alexander was among 253 hostages taken during Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack, which killed approximately 1,200 people in Israel. Since then, Israel’s offensive in Gaza has killed over 52,000 people and wounded nearly 120,000, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to updates on Alexander’s return home with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Texas Abortion Pill Bill Sparks Legal Alarm Over Court Limits and Civil Suits

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Texas Abortion Pill Bill Sparks Legal Alarm Over Court Limits and Civil Suits

Texas lawmakers are advancing a controversial bill that would sharply restrict access to abortion-inducing drugs and block state courts from ruling on its constitutionality—potentially reshaping the state’s legal system.

SB 2880: Expanding Lawsuits, Targeting Providers

Senate Bill 2880, passed by the Texas Senate, allows anyone involved in providing or distributing abortion pills to be sued for at least $100,000. The bill also expands wrongful death claims, letting family members—especially male partners—sue up to six years after an alleged abortion. The pregnant person cannot be sued, but doctors, pharmacists, and others can.

Judges and Lawyers at Risk

The bill bars Texas judges from hearing constitutional challenges to the law. Any judge who does can be personally sued and denied state legal protection. Attorneys who lose such cases would be liable for court costs, not their clients.

“This is absolutely unprecedented,” said SMU law professor Joanna Grossman. “It’s a threat to judicial independence.”

Broader Legal and Political Impact

Legal experts warn SB 2880 could erode the separation of powers.

“We’ve never had a system where people can sue judges over rulings,” said attorney Charles Siegel.

The bill also builds on Texas’ 2021 “bounty” law by giving private citizens more legal power to sue and limiting countersuits and venue changes.

Male Partners Empowered to Sue

The bill gives “biological fathers” the right to sue even with the woman’s consent—unless the pregnancy was from sexual assault. Critics call it a “bounty hunter bonanza.” Supporters say it’s a tool for holding abortion providers accountable, even across state lines.

National Implications

Legal scholars say Texas is once again setting a precedent that could spread. “This won’t be the last time we see these kinds of strategies,” said UC Davis law professor Mary Ziegler.

Keep up with updates on the Texas Legislature with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Opening Arguments Set in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial

Que Onda Editorial
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0
Opening Arguments Set in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial

The long-awaited criminal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to begin Monday in New York with opening arguments, following delays in jury selection.

Combs faces a series of federal charges, including sex trafficking by force, transportation for prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy.

Combs Faces Serious Allegations

Combs, 55, who rose to fame in the 1990s as a key figure in the careers of artists like Notorious B.I.G., Usher, and Mary J. Blige, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Federal prosecutors allege he led a violent criminal enterprise that coerced women into drug-fueled sexual acts he referred to as “freak offs.” Combs has denied wrongdoing, claiming all encounters were consensual and part of a swinger lifestyle.

Jury Selection Wraps Monday

Judge Arun Subramanian announced that final jury selection would take place Monday morning after two potential jurors unexpectedly dropped out late Friday. The jury will be seated at 8:30 a.m., followed by formal instructions and opening statements shortly thereafter.

High-Profile Defense Team

Combs is represented by a powerhouse legal team with over 150 years of combined experience. His lead attorneys, Marc Agnifilo and Brian Steel, have defended high-profile figures such as rapper Young Thug, disgraced financier Martin Shkreli, and accused corporate criminal Luigi Mangione.

Legal experts say the team’s deep experience across criminal defense sectors could prove pivotal in this high-stakes case, where Combs faces the possibility of life in prison if convicted.

For more on Combs’ trial, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

US and China Agree to 90-Day Tariff Reduction

Indira Zaldivar
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0
US and China Agree to 90-Day Tariff Reduction

The United States and China have announced a 90-day agreement to lower reciprocal tariffs, marking a significant pause in their ongoing trade tensions.

A joint statement released Monday emphasized both countries’ commitment to a “sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship.”

Talks Held in Geneva

The announcement followed a weekend of talks in Geneva, Switzerland, aimed at de-escalating the trade war sparked by President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs announced in April. These measures had triggered market instability and raised fears of a U.S. recession.

Tariffs to Drop to 10%

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that both nations agreed to a 90-day pause and would reduce reciprocal tariffs by 115%, bringing the rate down to 10%. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer added that China would also remove countermeasures as part of the deal.

Effective Tariff Rates

Greer clarified that during the 90-day pause, the effective U.S. tariff on Chinese goods would be 30%, while China’s tariffs would be held at 10%. These changes are set to take effect by Wednesday.

Path to Ongoing Negotiations

China’s state-run news agency Xinhua reported that both countries plan to create a mechanism for continued dialogue, with future meetings to take place in either nation or a neutral location. Working-level consultations may also be held as needed.

Positive Momentum in Talks

Both sides described the Geneva talks as productive. Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng said the discussions reached “important consensus,” and U.S. officials spoke of “substantial progress,” although they stopped short of calling it a finalized deal.

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

Trump Revives Drug Pricing Plan with New Executive Order Targeting Medicare Costs

Edward Saenz
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0
Trump Revives Drug Pricing Plan with New Executive Order Targeting Medicare Costs

A Familiar Promise with New Momentum

President Donald Trump announced he will sign an executive order Monday aimed at slashing certain prescription drug prices—a revival of a controversial plan from his first term.

If implemented, the order could reduce prices for some medications by 30% to 80%, though experts caution its impact would be limited to specific treatments covered under Medicare Part B.

“Most Favored Nation” Policy Returns

Trump’s proposal centers on a “Most Favored Nation’s Policy,” tying what the U.S. pays for certain drugs to the lowest prices paid by other wealthy nations.

“Our country will finally be treated fairly,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“Our citizens’ healthcare costs will be reduced by numbers never even thought of before.”

Focus on Medicare Part B Drugs

The executive order would apply mainly to medications administered in doctors’ offices, such as cancer infusions and specialty injectables—not drugs filled at pharmacies. In 2021, Medicare Part B drug spending topped $33 billion, with Americans often paying far more than patients in comparable countries.

Political Roadblocks and Industry Pushback

Trump attempted a similar measure in 2020, but it was blocked by the courts after opposition from the pharmaceutical industry, which argued that the policy would undermine innovation and give foreign governments too much influence over U.S. drug pricing. Critics also questioned Trump’s claim that the plan would save “trillions of dollars,” calling it an overstatement.

Tough Talk on Big Pharma

Trump doubled down on his long-standing criticism of drug companies, accusing them of exploiting American consumers. “They said the high prices were about research and development—but the suckers of America paid for it alone,” he posted. He also dismissed the influence of pharmaceutical lobbyists.

“Campaign contributions can do wonders, but not with me.”

A Lingering Issue, a Renewed Fight

Despite bipartisan frustration over the high cost of drugs in the U.S., Congress has repeatedly failed to pass sweeping reform. Trump’s revived executive order may not deliver immediate relief, but it positions him once again as a populist challenger to Big Pharma heading into the 2024 election cycle.

Keep up with this developing story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Leo XIV: First American Pontiff Calls for Peace, Prayers, and Unity

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Pope Leo XIV: First American Pontiff Calls for Peace, Prayers, and Unity

White Smoke and a Historic Moment

On Thursday, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the 133 cardinals had elected a new pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago was introduced as Pope Leo XIV—the first American to lead the Catholic Church and the 267th pontiff in history.

A Message of Peace and Hope

In his first public address, Leo appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and greeted crowds with a message of peace.

“This is the peace of the risen Christ.”

Speaking days later on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, he urged an end to wars in Ukraine and Gaza and called for humanitarian aid and the release of prisoners and hostages. He also praised a ceasefire between India and Pakistan as a hopeful sign for lasting diplomacy.

A Pope in Prayer

On Saturday, Leo made a quiet stop at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, praying at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and before the beloved icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani—a tradition Pope Francis held dear.

Regina Caeli and a Call to the Faithful

On Sunday, Leo delivered the Regina Caeli prayer from the main loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica. An estimated 100,000 people filled the square as the new pope asked for prayers, especially for the priesthood.

Balancing Faith and American Identity

With his American roots and the complex global landscape, experts say Pope Leo XIV must carefully balance his leadership.

“He is going to be a bridge builder,” said Rev. Stephen Spahn of Loyola University Maryland, emphasizing Leo’s likely effort to lead from a universal Christian perspective—not a political one. Still, observers expect he won’t shy away from addressing U.S. issues when they intersect with the Church’s mission.

A New Era Begins

As Pope Leo XIV takes the helm, he inherits a Church facing global conflict, division, and hope. His early gestures—calls for peace, interfaith healing, and devotion—set the tone for a papacy rooted in diplomacy, compassion, and unity.

Keep up the stances of the new pope with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Man accused of injuring dad, fatally stabbing mom on Mother’s Day in W. Houston, court records say

ABC13 Houston
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0
Man accused of injuring dad, fatally stabbing mom on Mother’s Day in W. Houston, court records say

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A 36-year-old man was arrested on Mother’s Day morning after allegedly stabbing his mom to death and injuring his father, according to court records.

The Houston Police Department said the stabbing took place at the family’s home off of North Fallen Bough Drive.

Boa Dinh did not physically appear in probable cause court on Sunday evening, but the magistrate still read his case and the circumstances.

The court officials said Dinh reportedly told authorities that he had a vivid dream” telling him that he needed to kill his parents to “prevent a massive global war.”

From there, the suspect went to his father’s room and struck him with a dumbbell multiple times before attacking and injuring him with a knife. Dinh told police that his father yelled out for help to his mother.

The suspect then saw his mother at the bottom of the stairs and admitted to stabbing her, court records said. The woman was rushed ot the hospital, where she died from her injuries at around 6 a.m.

According to records, police scanners said that first responders stated Dinh was experiencing a mental health crisis.

A judge called Dinh a threat to public safety and set his bond at $1.5 million.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Record-scorching heat wave coming to Texas this week

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Record-scorching heat wave coming to Texas this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Do yourself a favor and enjoy Monday morning because it’s probably our last dip into the 50s until we get to the other side of summer. A major May heat wave is incoming this week that will feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May.

We’ll enjoy a crisp northwest breeze through the night that will send morning lows down into the upper 50s to start off our work and school week. The upper low that brought our lovely Mother’s Day weekend weather will start pulling away during the day and taking the clouds along with it. All the sunshine should allow temperatures to easily warm into the mid 80s, which is a typical mid-May reading.

Ozone pollution could be high enough to cause issues for folks sensitive to the lung irritant. Asthma attacks and a dry cough of possible in sensitive individuals.

Monday night the Gulf breeze will return to push lows temperatures back into the mid 60s, which is again another seasonal reading. Starting Tuesday, the May heat wave will make its presence know and stick around for the rest of the week.

A May heat wave?! How hot are we talking?

Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be tied or broken Tuesday through Friday. Additionally, it will be humid enough to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.

Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?

Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. We cannot rule out a stray shower for Friday and Saturday, but the stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

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