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Pearland and League City Named Among Top Places to Live in the U.S.

Two Houston Suburbs Crack the Top 10

Pearland and League City have earned national recognition as two of the best places to live in America for 2025, according to the latest rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.

In the expanded “Best Places to Live in the U.S.” list for 2025–2026, Pearland secured the No. 3 spot, while League City landed firmly within the top 10, showcasing the growing appeal of Houston’s suburban communities.

U.S. News Expands and Refines Rankings

This year’s rankings were broadened to include 250 cities, up from 150 in previous years. The updated methodology evaluates cities based on five key factors:

  • Quality of life
  • Value
  • Desirability
  • Job market
  • Net migration

These updated criteria aim to give a more accurate and holistic picture of where Americans are choosing to live and why.

Pearland: A Rising Star in the Nation

Pearland tied with the No. 1 and No. 2 cities—Johns Creek, Georgia, and Carmel, Indiana—by scoring a 7.0 overall. Its strong job market, family-friendly atmosphere, and steady population growth have helped it climb to near the top of the national list.

League City Joins Elite Company

League City, another Houston-area suburb known for its schools, proximity to the Gulf Coast, and expanding economy, also placed in the top tier. Its ranking further highlights the growing appeal of life outside of Houston’s city core.

A Win for the Houston Metro Area

The recognition of both Pearland and League City reflects the broader success of the Houston metropolitan area in offering livability, opportunity, and affordability. As more people seek out places that combine urban convenience with suburban comfort, these two cities continue to stand out.

For all things Houston, keep up with Que Onda Magazine daily.

Hot holiday weekend continues with increasing rain and storm chances next week

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We’re still feeling the steam on this Sunday, with feels-like temperatures heading to 100 degrees this afternoon.

Sunday will start off humid and a bit cloudy with that morning heavy morning humidity, and we’re not ruling out a few showers developing along the coast and moving inland for the first part of the day. Otherwise we’re expecting another sunny and hot day with afternoon highs in the mid 90s. Winds will pick up too, gusting out of the south at about 25 mph at times.

What can we expect for Memorial Day?

Monday will start off humid once again and temperatures will rise back into the 90s once again. But by Monday afternoon, a slow-moving front will begin to dip across north Texas. Any showers and storms that develop along that front will charge southward towards the coast Monday afternoon and evening. Some of these storms could be strong to severe as well, with hail, damaging winds and street flooding as potential threats. Portions of Southeast Texas are within the severe weather risk area of Monday with the best chance for severe weather north of Houston and I-10, so storms will likely be strongest farther north and weakening as they track south towards the coast Monday night.

Any more severe weather or flooding expected next week?

With the kind of pattern setting up next week, we cant rule out a shower or storm being on the strong to severe side Monday through Friday of next week. Hail, gusty winds and heavy rains will be the main threats with the strongest storms that develop. As for rainfall amounts, most of Southeast Texas will pik up 1 to 3 inches of rain collectively over the next 7 days. Coastal communities could see less and our far northern counties could see more. Street flooding will be a concern as the heavy rain falls.

Hurricane seasons begins in just over a week. What can we expect this season?

Hurricane season begins on June 1st and this year we are anticipating another active one. Both hurricane outlooks from NOAA and Colorado State University predict an above normal season. From NOAA specifically, the predication is 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and possibly 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Two big reasons why are because of the lack of an El Nino or La Nina and the trend of seeing warmer than normal ocean temperatures. And while these outlooks aren’t landfall forecasts for the United States, given these conditions there is the possibility for storms to move into the Gulf this year.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

George Floyd’s childhood friends build on his legacy five years after his death

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — George Floyd is a product of the Third Ward. He grew up in the Cuney Homes. When he died five years ago, several of his childhood friends drove to Minnesota because they wanted to make sure Floyd’s death was fully investigated.

Cal Wayne was one of those people.

“He meant so much to me when it happened; I jumped in the car and rode 22 hours to Minnesota to see what happened,” said the longtime Houston rapper.

We first met Cal Wayne, and some of Floyd’s other childhood friends on Winbern in front of the now iconic blue mural of George Floyd painted after his death. These days, the mural’s still there, maybe not as bright, and the streets don’t seem as busy. But this is still George Floyd’s neighborhood, where his memories don’t fade.

“This is my brother,” Wayne said, who featured Floyd in some of his earlier rap videos. “This is the first person I’ve ever looked up to. This is a person that put the crates up on a tree for us to play basketball when we were little. To hammer the milk crates, he was tall and could put them up for us.”

He was known as “Big Floyd” in the neighborhood because of his height and towering presence. When Floyd died that fateful day in May 2020, the lives of those who called him family were also forever changed.

“To see my friend and a guy that I was born and raised with, who we said is like brothers, for him to be on the ground like that, you know, it sparked the change,” childhood friend Travis Cains said.

“It sparked the person who wanted to get up, be active, and be more of an advocate.”

Cains participated in the rallies, protests, and calls for justice. He keeps in close touch with Floyd’s daughter, Gianna, and her mother, Roxie Washington. They dream about George Floyd’s legacy, which has yet to be fully realized.

Cains said, “Through the grace of God, it’s going to get done.”

Wayne has channeled the pain into new music, and several recordings honor George Floyd’s memory.

“I really knew, Lord, like I really, really knew him, I idolized him.”

Cal Wayne, Travis Cains, Roxie Washington, and Gianna Floyd are a tight group of friends working together to build a foundation, a community center, and a more permanent legacy for Big Floyd.

“I know he’s looking down on me. I can just imagine what he’s saying. Like, I knew big brother got me. It always ever happened.”

On Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., George Floyd’s family and friends will gather for a five-year remembrance event to honor him. The public is invited to Emancipation Park at 3018 Emancipation Avenue.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Russia Strikes Ukraine in Massive Barrage Despite Historic Prisoner Swap

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Wave of Attacks Across Ukraine

Russia launched a massive overnight barrage of drones and missiles on cities across Ukraine, killing at least 18 people and injuring 85 others, Ukrainian officials said Sunday. The attacks came just hours after the largest prisoner exchange of the war was completed.

Ukraine’s air force reported 367 aerial attack vehicles were launched, including ballistic and cruise missiles as well as nearly 300 drones. Most regions were affected, with strikes in 22 locations. Kyiv’s dormitories and factories were among the targets.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on social media, “Today, rescuers have been working in more than 30 Ukrainian cities and villages following Russia’s massive strike.”

“These were deliberate strikes on ordinary cities,” he added. “Ordinary residential buildings were destroyed and damaged. In Kyiv, dormitories of the university’s history department were hit. There were also strikes on enterprises. Tragically, people were killed, including children.”

Russia Justifies Attack, Ukraine Disputes Intent

Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed the attack targeted Ukraine’s defense infrastructure: “a massive strike by sea, air, land-based precision weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles against enterprises of Ukraine’s military-industrial complex.”

“The targets of the strike have been achieved,” the ministry stated.

Ukraine’s Interior Ministry reported 80 residential buildings were damaged and 27 fires were recorded. Among the dead were three children from one family.

Escalation Amid Peace Stalemate

The assault marked the fourth consecutive night of large-scale missile and drone strikes, highlighting Moscow’s intensified campaign despite ongoing calls for peace.

The barrage came just as Ukraine and Russia completed a major prisoner exchange involving around 1,000 troops on each side. This was the largest such exchange since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

Calls for Stronger Action Against Russia

Zelenskyy called for renewed international pressure. “Each such terrorist Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia,” he said.

“The war can be stopped, but only through the necessary force of pressure on Russia. Putin must be forced to think not about launching missiles, but about ending the war.”

Andriy Yermak, head of the president’s office, added, “Instead of a ceasefire, there are murders.”

“Without pressure, nothing will change and Russia and its allies will only build up forces for such murders in Western countries,” he warned.

Stalled Peace Talks and Persistent Demands

Despite U.S.-brokered peace talks under President Donald Trump, no ceasefire has been reached. Ukraine demands a 30-day ceasefire to initiate peace negotiations, while refusing to cede any territory.

Russia continues to demand the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, the retention of Crimea, a ban on NATO membership for Ukraine, and so-called “denazification.” Ukrainian leaders argue these conditions demonstrate Russia’s lack of commitment to real peace.

For more updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Memorial Day Weekend Recipe for Sipping: Paleta Float

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Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States — the perfect time to gather with family and friends outdoors. And what better way to cool down than with a treat that blends the best of two worlds?

This fruit paleta float combines the nostalgic flavors of traditional Mexican popsicles with the fun, fizzy flair of a classic American float. It’s vibrant, easy to make, and a delicious way to honor our Latin roots under the sun.

Ingredients

  • 4–6 Mexican-style fruit paletas (recommended flavors: strawberry, mango, or hibiscus)
  • 1 liter of sparkling water (lime-flavored or plain)
  • 1/2 cup of fresh fruit (sliced strawberries, cubed mango, pineapple chunks)
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
  • Optional: A splash of rum or tequila for an adult version

Instructions

  1. In a tall glass or mason jar, add a handful of fresh fruit and a few mint leaves.
  2. Place a paleta into each glass, leaving the stick exposed.
  3. Pour the sparkling water over the paleta — watch it fizz and melt into a refreshing, icy drink!
  4. Optional: Add a splash of rum or tequila for a grown-up twist.
  5. Stir gently and serve immediately with a spoon and straw.

Why It Works

  • Latin Flavor: Pays homage to the classic paleterías of Latin America.
  • Versatile: Kid-friendly or easily made into a boozy treat.
  • Festive: Colorful, fun, and perfect for large gatherings.

A summer refresher that’s both playful and cultural — this paleta float is sure to be the hit of your Memorial Day celebration.

For more fun recipes, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

‘Lilo & Stitch’ Smashes Memorial Day Box Office Records, ‘Mission: Impossible’ Hits Franchise High

The 2025 Memorial Day weekend box office is making history, driven by the explosive debuts of “Lilo & Stitch” and “Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning.”

Record-Breaking Debuts Dominate Holiday Weekend

Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” is set for a stunning $170M–$180M domestic opening, overtaking “Top Gun: Maverick” as the highest Memorial Day debut ever. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise’s final “Mission: Impossible” installment is projected to earn a franchise-best $77M.

Lilo & Stitch’ Surpasses Expectations

Originally tracking for a $120M debut, “Lilo & Stitch” surged in momentum, especially among Gen Z and younger millennial women nostalgic for the 2002 original. The film grossed $55M on Friday from 4,410 theaters, including a record $14.5M from Thursday previews — the biggest Memorial Day preview haul in Disney live-action history.

Nostalgia and Broader Appeal Fuel Success

The film’s appeal stretches beyond families, with teens and young adults showing strong turnout. This mirrors the success of 2019’s “Aladdin,” also produced by Rideback, which grossed $1.1B globally. Despite its modest $100M budget and original plans for a Disney+ release, “Lilo & Stitch” received an A CinemaScore and holds a 70% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Mission: Impossible Sets Franchise Records

Paramount and Skydance’s “Final Reckoning” took in $24.8M on Friday from 3,857 theaters, including $8.3M in Thursday previews — a new high for the series. It’s expected to surpass the $61.2M opening of “Fallout” and easily beat the $54.7M launch of Dead Reckoning.

Older Audiences Turn Out for Cruise’s Finale

Older viewers, particularly those over 55, made up the majority of ticket buyers, followed by the 18–25 demographic. The film scored an A- CinemaScore and has an 80% Rotten Tomatoes rating. Despite its steep $400M production cost, Paramount sees long-term value through increased home entertainment revenue and library boosts.

Biggest Memorial Day Box Office Ever

Together, both films are projected to push total holiday weekend sales past $320M — topping the $306M record set in 2013. It also marks the strongest showing for two major films opening head-to-head over Memorial Day.

Global Performance: Lilo Leads Early

Overseas, “Lilo & Stitch” earned $29.6M on Friday, bringing its international total to $56.3M from 50 markets. It set year-best opening days in China, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, and Italy.

Final Reckoning Ramps Up Abroad

The “Mission: Impossible” finale brought in $16.6M internationally on Friday, for a total of $75.9M from 64 markets. It will open in China on May 30.

The Next Box Office Rivalry?

While not quite a Barbenheimer-style cultural event, the powerful one-two punch of “Lilo & Stitch” and Final Reckoning has sparked buzz — maybe even earning its own nickname: “Stitchin: Impossible.”

Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump’s Ban on Harvard’s International Students

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A federal judge has temporarily stopped the Trump administration from barring Harvard University from enrolling international students.

Court Action Delays Controversial Ban

U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs issued a temporary restraining order and scheduled a hearing for Tuesday. This comes after Harvard sued the administration, arguing the move violated the First Amendment, the Due Process Clause, and the Administrative Procedure Act.

Harvard Responds with Lawsuit

In its legal complaint, Harvard accused the administration of an “unprecedented and retaliatory attack” due to policy disagreements. The university said, “Harvard’s more than 7,000 F-1 and J-1 visa holders—and their dependents—have become pawns in the government’s escalating campaign of retaliation.”

University President Defends Student Rights

Harvard President Alan Garber called the ruling a “critical step to protect the rights and opportunities of our international students and scholars.” He rejected the government’s claim that Harvard had failed to comply with federal requests. “In fact, Harvard did respond to the Department’s requests as required by law,” Garber said.

DHS Cites Safety, Compliance Issues

The Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, revoked Harvard’s ability to use the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Noem cited the university’s “refusal to comply” with requests for information and accused it of fostering an “unsafe campus environment that is hostile to Jewish students, promotes pro-Hamas sympathies, and employs racist ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ policies.”

Tensions Between Harvard and Trump Administration Escalate

The dispute is part of a broader conflict between Harvard and the Trump administration, which has threatened the university’s tax-exempt status and withheld billions in federal funding.

Public Opinion Favors Harvard

A recent ABC News/Washington Post poll showed that 66% of Americans side with Harvard in the conflict, while 32% support the Trump administration. The poll was conducted before the move to block international student enrollment.

Federal Requests for Student Data Spark Legal Battle

According to DHS, Harvard failed to provide adequate data on visa holders involved in protests, disciplinary actions, or threats to campus safety. Noem emphasized that studying at U.S. universities is “a privilege, not a right.”

A final decision is pending the outcome of the upcoming court hearing.

For more on the ban on international students, keep up with updates on Que Onda Magazine.

Let’s talk about Memorial Day. Will it rain on your holiday?

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’ll feel like summer this long holiday weekend with humid mornings, sunny and hot afternoons with the chance for a few showers and storms on Memorial Day.

That 20% chance over the weekend could include a localized strong storm or two. There’s a better chance your neighborhood stays dry.

When could we get some rain again?

Rain chances return for the holiday with the highest chance of rain peaking the day after Memorial Day when another front pushes into Southeast Texas. At this time, we have a 20% chance for Saturday, a 20% chance for Sunday, a 30% chance for Monday, and a 60% chance for next Tuesday.

Will the Memorial Day front bring us any sustained heat relief?

Yes! The combination of clouds and rain will drop highs back into the 80s for most of next week, which is more typical for late May.

Hurricane seasons begins in just over a week. What can we expect this season?

Hurricane season begins on June 1st and this year we are anticipating another active one. Both hurricane outlooks from NOAA and Colorado State University predict an above normal season. From NOAA specifically, the predication is 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and possibly 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Two big reasons why are because of the lack of an El Nino or La Nina and the trend of seeing warmer than normal ocean temperatures. And while these outlooks aren’t landfall forecasts for the United States, given these conditions there is the possibility for storms to move into the Gulf this year.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

HPD releases images of suspect accused of fatally shooting man on METRO bus in SW Houston

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HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Police Department has released images of the suspect accused of fatally shooting a man on board a METRO bus in southwest Houston on Friday afternoon.

The shooting happened at about 2:30 p.m. near W. Bellfort in the 2100 block.

Police said the shooting stemmed from the suspect and the victim arguing before the suspect pulled out a gun and fired at the man.

ORIGINAL REPORT: Bus rider dies after shooting on METRO bus in SW Houston, suspect at large, officials say

Officials said the gunman fled the scene shortly after. HPD said once officers arrived, the victim was found on the sidewalk and taken to the hospital by the Houston Fire Department paramedics.

He was pronounced dead a short time later.

The suspect is described as a Black man between the ages of 18 and 25. Police said he is between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet tall, has locs, and is wearing a black shirt, blue-patterned shorts with trees, and a black crossbody in the photos.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

15-Year- Tried to Flee and Hide Loaded Gun Between His Buttocks

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A 15-year-old boy was arrested on May 19, 2025, following a brief police chase involving Precinct 4 deputies from Harris County along the 19700 block of Tomball Parkway in northwest Houston.

Refused to Stop for Deputies

According to the official report, deputies attempted a routine traffic stop when the driver sped off instead of complying. The chase ended shortly after when the vehicle crashed into a curb, allowing deputies to apprehend the driver—who turned out to be a minor.

Carried a Hidden Firearm

During the search, officers discovered the teen was carrying a loaded firearm. He had attempted to hide the weapon between his buttocks to prevent its discovery.

Facing Multiple Charges

Sheriff Mark Herman confirmed the teen was taken to the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center. He faces charges of evading arrest in a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of a firearm.

For more uncanny stories like this, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.