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Elon Musk Becomes World’s First Trillionaire After SpaceX IPO

Michael Esparza
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Elon Musk Becomes World’s First Trillionaire After SpaceX IPO

Elon Musk trillionaire status became reality Friday, June 12, after SpaceX surged in its Wall Street debut. The rocket and satellite company’s initial public offering became the largest in history and pushed Musk’s estimated net worth above $1 trillion.

SpaceX opened at $150 a share and climbed to about $168 by early afternoon, according to The Associated Press. That gave the company a market value near $2.2 trillion.

SpaceX IPO Pushes Elon Musk Trillionaire Milestone

The SpaceX IPO raised about $75 billion, far above previous public offering records. The company trades under the symbol SPCX.

Forbes estimated Musk’s net worth at about $1.2 trillion after the early trading surge, AP reported. Musk remains a major shareholder in SpaceX and also holds large stakes in Tesla and other companies.

The milestone came after years of speculation that Musk could become the first trillionaire. Earlier attention focused on Tesla’s massive performance-based pay package. However, SpaceX’s market debut delivered the faster path.

Why Investors Rushed Into SpaceX

SpaceX has attracted investor interest because of its work in rockets, satellites, Starlink internet service, and space-based data center plans. Musk has also tied the company’s future to long-term goals such as Mars travel and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Still, the IPO carries major risks. AP reported that SpaceX lost billions before going public. Analysts have warned that parts of the company’s valuation depend on ambitious projects that remain unproven.

Morningstar analysts also raised concerns that SpaceX could be overvalued. The company’s supporters argue that its launch business, satellite network, and government contracts give it rare market power.

Texas Remains Central To SpaceX’s Growth

The IPO also carries Texas significance. SpaceX has major operations at Starbase in South Texas, near Boca Chica. The site has become central to the company’s Starship rocket program.

Musk has promoted Starbase as a key location for future space exploration plans. The company’s growth has brought jobs, tourism, and attention to the region. It has also drawn debate over environmental impact, local infrastructure, and public access near launch areas.

For Texas readers, the SpaceX IPO is more than a Wall Street story. It is tied to one of the state’s most visible technology and aerospace projects.

Wealth Milestone Draws Debate

Musk’s new title is already sparking debate over wealth inequality and corporate power. Critics say one person reaching $1 trillion shows how quickly wealth can concentrate in the modern economy.

Supporters point to SpaceX’s private-sector role in lowering launch costs and expanding satellite internet access. They also see the IPO as a signal that investors still want high-growth technology companies.

The public market will now test that confidence. SpaceX must show investors that its costly space ambitions can produce steady returns.

For communities watching the story across Texas and beyond, the takeaway is clear: SpaceX’s debut has reshaped both the stock market and Musk’s place in business history.

Margaritaville Lake Resort Kicks Off Swim-Up Soccer Summer Near Houston

Michael Esparza
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Margaritaville Lake Resort Kicks Off Swim-Up Soccer Summer Near Houston

Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston is bringing soccer fever to the water with Swim-Up Soccer Summer, a resort-wide celebration tied to Houston’s FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. The Montgomery resort will feature poolside watch parties, live music, special events, and a limited-time global menu inspired by competing nations.

Houston’s first World Cup match is set for Sunday, June 14, when Germany faces Curaçao at Houston Stadium, according to the official FIFA World Cup 26 Houston schedule. The city will host seven matches during the tournament.

Swim-Up Soccer Summer Brings Matches Poolside

The center of the resort’s celebration will be the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Pool. Fans can watch tournament action on a 6-foot by 10-foot digital screen while relaxing in the water.

The setup gives guests a different kind of match-day experience. Instead of watching from a couch or crowded bar, fans can follow the games from a pool float with a margarita in hand.

The resort is positioning the event series as a home base for match weekends. Guests can watch games onsite, enjoy resort amenities, and still travel into Houston for live tournament events.

Global Menus Add Match-Day Flavor

Margaritaville’s culinary team created a limited-time menu inspired by several competing nations. Each dish will be served at a different restaurant on the property.

At License to Chill Bar & Café, guests can order France Chicken Coq au Vin for $33. The dish features chicken braised in red wine sauce with herbs, vegetables, roasted tri-color carrots, and petite potatoes.

LandShark Bar & Grill will serve Mexico Chicken Enchiladas for $19. The dish includes rolled tortillas filled with seasoned chicken, house-made enchilada sauce, melted cheese, black beans, and Mexican rice.

At Lone Palm Pool Bar & Grill, the Spain Beef Empanada Platter is built for sharing. The $48 platter includes 10 flaky pastry pockets filled with seasoned beef and served with assorted dipping sauces.

The resort will also debut the GOAL-A-Rita, a tournament-inspired margarita made with CASAMIGOS Tequila. The cocktail will be available throughout the resort for $14.

Shuttle Option Connects Conroe and Houston

For fans planning to attend matches or fan events in person, the resort is highlighting a transportation option through the City of Conroe. Shuttle service from the Conroe Park-N-Ride to Houston Stadium and the FIFA Fan Festival will be available for $16.

Tickets are $10 for riders under 18. Children 10 and younger ride free.

The shuttle gives visitors another way to avoid heavy event traffic and parking concerns. Houston officials have also encouraged fans to plan transportation ahead of match days.

After the final whistle, guests can return to the resort for its regular amenities. Margaritaville Lake Resort offers the 3.5-acre Jolly Mon Water Park, pickleball and tennis courts, St. Somewhere Spa, an 18-hole golf course, and six onsite restaurants and bars.

The all-suite resort includes 335 suites and 32 lakefront cottages across 186 acres on Lake Conroe. It is located about an hour from Houston and within driving distance of Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and other major Texas markets.

With Houston match weekends expected to draw large crowds, Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston is encouraging guests to book early for Swim-Up Soccer Summer stays.

Texas, Federal Agencies Escalate Response to Screwworm Outbreak in South Texas

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas, Federal Agencies Escalate Response to Screwworm Outbreak in South Texas

State and federal officials are ramping up emergency response efforts across South Texas following the detection of New World screwworm cases, a development that threatens the state’s livestock industry and has prompted a coordinated containment campaign.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the presence of the flesh-eating parasite in Texas earlier this month, marking the first known U.S. cases in decades. The discovery has triggered an aggressive response from federal and state agencies seeking to prevent the pest from spreading into major cattle-producing regions.

The USDA has deployed additional personnel to affected areas, increased surveillance and trapping operations, and expanded the release of sterile male screwworm flies, a long-standing method used to disrupt the insect’s reproductive cycle. Veterinary supplies and treatment resources have also been positioned throughout South Texas as officials work to contain the outbreak.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has expanded the state’s disaster declaration and activated emergency management resources to assist with containment efforts. State agencies, veterinary experts and agricultural partners have been directed to support monitoring and response operations in vulnerable regions.

“The goal is to stop the spread before it reaches broader portions of Texas cattle country,” officials said during recent briefings on the outbreak.

South Texas has become the focal point of response efforts because of its proximity to Mexico, where officials have been tracking the northward movement of the parasite. The screwworm, which infests open wounds in warm-blooded animals, poses a significant threat to cattle, wildlife, pets and, in rare cases, humans.

The parasite’s larvae feed on living tissue, causing severe injuries that can become fatal if left untreated. The United States successfully eradicated New World screwworm in the 1960s through a massive sterile-fly release program, making the recent detections particularly concerning for agricultural officials.

Ranchers across South Texas are closely monitoring the situation as authorities implement quarantine zones and livestock movement restrictions designed to slow the parasite’s spread. The measures could affect cattle transportation and trade throughout the region.

Texas leads the nation in cattle production, and agricultural groups warn that a widespread infestation could have significant economic consequences. State officials have estimated that an uncontrolled outbreak could result in billions of dollars in losses to the livestock industry while disrupting beef markets and trade.

The outbreak has also prompted increased coordination between local governments, state agencies and federal officials as they work to monitor new detections and educate livestock owners about prevention and treatment measures.

Officials are encouraging ranchers and veterinarians to immediately report suspicious wounds or infestations in livestock as response teams continue surveillance efforts across South Texas.

The situation remains fluid as authorities work to determine the extent of the outbreak and prevent the parasite from gaining a foothold in the nation’s largest cattle-producing state.

Water Crisis in Corpus Christi Emerges as Major Issue in Texas Governor’s Race

Edward Saenz
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Water Crisis in Corpus Christi Emerges as Major Issue in Texas Governor’s Race

A worsening water shortage in Corpus Christi has become a major flashpoint in Texas politics, drawing criticism from state leaders and placing renewed attention on the state’s long-term water infrastructure needs as drought conditions continue to strain supplies.

The dispute intensified after city officials delayed action on a proposed desalination and water treatment project intended to help secure future water supplies for the Coastal Bend region. The delay prompted criticism from Gov. Greg Abbott, who warned that the state could intervene if local leaders fail to address the growing crisis.

Corpus Christi, home to one of the nation’s busiest energy export hubs, relies on a water system that serves residents, businesses and major industrial facilities connected to the Port of Corpus Christi. Years of drought and increasing demand have raised concerns about whether current supplies can meet future needs.

Local officials have warned that water restrictions could become necessary if reservoir levels continue to decline and rainfall remains below average.

The issue has also become a campaign battleground in Texas’ 2026 gubernatorial race.

Abbott has argued that local leaders must move more aggressively to secure additional water supplies, while Democratic gubernatorial nominee Gina Hinojosa has accused state leaders of failing to adequately address Texas’ broader water challenges. Hinojosa has called for increased state investment in water infrastructure and questioned whether industrial users are carrying their fair share of the costs associated with future projects.

At the center of the debate is a proposed desalination facility designed to convert seawater into drinking water. Supporters say the project would provide a reliable source of water independent of rainfall and reservoir levels. Critics have raised concerns about the project’s cost, environmental impact and long-term financial burden on residents.

The dispute highlights a growing challenge facing communities across Texas as population growth, economic development and recurring drought conditions place increasing pressure on water supplies.

State leaders have spent years warning about Texas’ future water needs. According to state water planning projections, demand is expected to rise significantly in the coming decades while existing water supplies decline because of drought, aging infrastructure and groundwater depletion.

Water experts say Corpus Christi’s situation could serve as a warning for other rapidly growing regions throughout Texas, including areas surrounding Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio.

As city leaders continue debating long-term solutions, the outcome in Corpus Christi could influence future water policy discussions at the Capitol and become a defining issue in the state’s 2027 legislative session.

For residents of the Coastal Bend, however, the immediate concern remains ensuring that enough water is available to meet the needs of homes, businesses and industry during the months ahead.

Waymo Expands Houston Robotaxi Service Ahead of FIFA World Cup

Edward Saenz
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Waymo Expands Houston Robotaxi Service Ahead of FIFA World Cup

Autonomous vehicle company Waymo has expanded its Houston robotaxi service ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, positioning self-driving vehicles as part of the city’s transportation strategy for one of the largest events in its history.

The expansion nearly doubles Waymo’s Houston service area to approximately 50 square miles, adding several key destinations expected to see heavy visitor traffic during the monthlong tournament. The enlarged coverage area now includes East Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, NRG Stadium and portions of northeast Houston.

Houston is set to host seven World Cup matches and is expected to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world. City officials have spent years preparing transportation and public safety plans designed to accommodate the influx of fans, with autonomous vehicles now joining traditional rideshare services, taxis and public transit as transportation options.

Waymo riders can use the company’s mobile app to request fully autonomous rides throughout the service area. The expansion places NRG Stadium, the site of Houston’s World Cup matches, within reach of the company’s driverless fleet as tournament activities begin across the city.

The World Cup represents one of the largest real-world tests yet for autonomous transportation during a major international sporting event. Millions of fans are expected to travel among stadiums, fan festivals, hotels and entertainment districts throughout the tournament, creating significant demand for transportation services.

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has continued expanding operations across several U.S. cities as competition in the autonomous vehicle industry intensifies. Company officials view major events such as the World Cup as opportunities to introduce self-driving technology to new riders, including international visitors who may be experiencing autonomous transportation for the first time.

The expansion comes as Houston leaders work to manage increased traffic and mobility challenges associated with the tournament. Local officials have coordinated with transportation agencies, rideshare companies and event organizers to reduce congestion and improve access to World Cup venues.

Despite the growth, autonomous vehicle technology continues to face scrutiny from regulators and the public. Earlier this year, some Houston residents raised concerns after Waymo vehicles reportedly experienced navigation issues near railroad crossings in the city’s Fifth Ward. The company has also faced regulatory attention following recalls involving thousands of autonomous vehicles nationwide.

Transportation experts say Houston’s World Cup experience could provide valuable data on how autonomous vehicles perform under the demands of a major international event. The technology’s ability to handle increased traffic volumes, road closures and large crowds will be closely watched by both industry leaders and local officials.

If successful, the tournament could serve as a showcase for how autonomous vehicles can be integrated into transportation plans for future large-scale events. For Houston, the World Cup may offer a glimpse into how self-driving technology could become a more prominent part of the city’s transportation network in the years ahead.

Houston City Council Approves $7.5 Billion Budget, Adopts First Residential Trash Fee

Edward Saenz
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Houston City Council Approves $7.5 Billion Budget, Adopts First Residential Trash Fee

The Houston City Council approved a $7.5 billion fiscal year 2027 budget Wednesday, adopting the city’s first residential trash collection fee as officials seek to address a significant budget shortfall while maintaining core city services.

The budget, backed by Mayor John Whitmire, passed after weeks of debate over how to close an estimated budget gap without raising property taxes. The plan includes a new monthly fee for households that receive city-operated garbage collection, marking a major change in how Houston funds its solid waste services.

Under the approved plan, most residents will begin paying a $5 monthly trash collection fee through their water bills beginning in July. City officials say the fee will provide a dedicated source of funding for solid waste operations, which have historically been supported through the city’s general fund.

Supporters of the measure argued the change is necessary to place Houston on firmer financial footing and ensure the long-term sustainability of trash collection, recycling and neighborhood cleanup services.

“This budget addresses our financial challenges while protecting essential city services,” Whitmire and supporters said throughout the budget process.

The vote followed extensive public testimony at City Hall, where residents voiced concerns about affordability, public safety, flooding, neighborhood infrastructure and sanitation services. The proposed trash fee emerged as one of the most contentious issues discussed during recent council meetings.

Opponents argued that the fee would place an additional financial burden on families already facing higher housing costs, utility bills and grocery prices. Several community advocates urged the city to consider exemptions or reduced rates for low-income households, seniors and residents living on fixed incomes.

City officials have indicated discussions regarding potential assistance programs will continue as the fee is implemented.

The budget debate also highlighted broader concerns about Houston’s long-term financial outlook. City leaders have spent months examining ways to balance the budget while addressing aging infrastructure, public safety needs and service demands across the nation’s fourth-largest city.

Supporters of the trash fee noted that many major cities fund sanitation services through dedicated fees rather than relying solely on general tax revenue. They argued the new charge creates a more transparent funding structure and allows the city to better track the cost of providing waste collection services.

The fiscal year 2027 budget also includes funding for public safety, infrastructure improvements and other city operations. However, the trash fee is expected to remain a focal point of public discussion as residents begin seeing the new charge on their utility bills later this summer.

The measure represents one of the most significant policy changes approved by the City Council this year and is likely to remain a major issue at City Hall as officials monitor its financial impact and residents evaluate whether it results in improved city services.

Heat, Humidity Become Early Challenge for Houston World Cup Events

Que Onda Editorial
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Heat, Humidity Become Early Challenge for Houston World Cup Events

Houston’s intense summer heat and humidity emerged as an early concern for FIFA World Cup organizers Thursday after dozens of attendees required medical attention during the opening day of the city’s FIFA Fan Festival.

According to local officials, more than 20 people were treated for heat-related illnesses during the event, while several others were transported to hospitals for further treatment. The incidents occurred as thousands of fans gathered in East Downtown to watch the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and celebrate the start of the monthlong tournament.

The medical calls came amid a recent stretch of increasingly hot and humid weather across Southeast Texas. Temperatures reached around 90 degrees Thursday afternoon, but high humidity levels pushed the heat index significantly higher, creating conditions that can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Weather experts have warned that Houston’s combination of heat and humidity could become one of the biggest challenges facing fans, workers and athletes during the World Cup. Unlike air temperature alone, humidity limits the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating, increasing the likelihood of heat-related illnesses during prolonged outdoor activities.

Houston has experienced a noticeable increase in heat and humidity in recent days as summer conditions settle across the region. Forecasters have also warned of continued tropical moisture moving into Southeast Texas, which could further elevate humidity levels during the coming week.

In anticipation of the weather, organizers installed misting stations, hydration stations, shaded areas and air-conditioned cooling centers throughout the Fan Festival grounds. Medical teams, ambulances and emergency personnel remain stationed on site throughout the tournament.

The FIFA Fan Festival, located in Houston’s EaDo neighborhood near Shell Energy Stadium, is expected to draw thousands of visitors daily throughout the World Cup. The free event will remain open on match days through July 19 and serves as the city’s primary gathering place for fans without tickets to matches.

Health officials are urging attendees to drink water frequently, seek shade when possible and limit alcohol consumption during outdoor events. They also encouraged visitors unfamiliar with Houston’s climate to recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can quickly become medical emergencies if left untreated.

With Houston set to host seven World Cup matches and hundreds of thousands of visitors over the next month, city officials say managing the effects of extreme heat and humidity will remain a key public safety priority throughout the tournament.

Mexico Beats South Africa in First Game of 2026 World Cup

Michael Esparza
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Mexico Beats South Africa in First Game of 2026 World Cup

Mexico vs South Africa opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup today in Mexico City, launching the largest tournament in the event’s history. El Tri started strong with a 2-0 win over South Africa at Mexico City Stadium.

The June 11 match marked the first of 104 games across Mexico, the United States and Canada. It also brought the World Cup back to Mexican soil for another historic opener.

Mexico vs South Africa Opens a New World Cup Era

Mexico entered the match with the pressure and energy of a host nation. The crowd in Mexico City gave El Tri a loud home-field advantage from the opening whistle.

The matchup also carried history. Mexico and South Africa previously met in the opening game of the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg. That match ended in a 1-1 draw.

This time, Mexico controlled the result. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez scored for El Tri, according to ESPN. South Africa finished the match with nine players after receiving two red cards.

The win gives Mexico an early lift in Group A. It also gives fans across Texas and the broader Latino community a major moment to start the summer tournament.

El Tri Starts With Three Points

Mexico’s 2-0 victory gives the team three points in its opening group match. In the World Cup group stage, every early point matters.

El Tri will now try to build momentum as the tournament continues. A strong start can help reduce pressure before tougher group matches.

South Africa, meanwhile, faces an uphill climb after the loss. The team must recover quickly after playing short-handed late in the opener.

The expanded 2026 format includes 48 teams for the first time. That makes every group result important as teams fight for a place in the knockout rounds.

A Historic Tournament Begins

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first hosted by three countries. Mexico, the United States and Canada are sharing the monthlong event.

Mexico City Stadium hosted the opener. The venue, widely known as Estadio Azteca, has a deep World Cup history. It previously hosted major tournament moments in 1970 and 1986.

The 2026 tournament will run through July 19. Matches will be played in 16 host cities across North America.

For fans in the United States, the opener aired on FOX and Telemundo. Spanish-language coverage remains a major part of the tournament experience for many Latino households.

Houston Gets Ready for Its First Match

Houston will enter the World Cup spotlight this weekend. The city’s first tournament match is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, at Houston Stadium.

That match will bring international fans, watch parties and local events across the region. Houston is one of several U.S. host cities playing a major role in the tournament.

For Texas soccer fans, Mexico’s opening win adds early excitement. El Tri has one of the strongest followings in the state, especially in Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Dallas-Fort Worth.

The first game delivered a winning start for Mexico and a festive opening for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As the tournament moves forward, fans across Texas will be watching closely as the world’s biggest soccer event arrives in their own backyard.

WHO Says Ebola Risk Remains Low for 2026 World Cup Host Nations

Indira Zaldivar
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WHO Says Ebola Risk Remains Low for 2026 World Cup Host Nations

No Ebola Cases Reported in North America

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the risk of Ebola spreading to countries hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains low despite the growing outbreak in Central Africa.

WHO Europe Regional Director Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge said there are currently no Ebola cases reported in North America or Europe. The tournament is being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Outbreak Continues in Central Africa

Health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have confirmed 676 Ebola cases, while neighboring Uganda has reported 19 cases and two deaths. Many of Uganda’s infections have been linked to travel from affected areas.

The WHO emphasized that most cases remain concentrated in remote regions of the DRC, reducing the likelihood of widespread international transmission.

Why Health Officials Say Risk Is Low

According to the WHO, several factors limit the risk of global spread:

  • Ebola is not an airborne virus.
  • The disease spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person.
  • People become contagious only after symptoms appear.
  • Health screening measures are in place for travelers leaving affected regions.

The U.S. has also implemented enhanced public health screenings for certain travelers arriving from the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan.

Travelers Encouraged to Stay Informed

WHO officials are not recommending travel restrictions for World Cup attendees. Kluge said travelers should continue with their plans while staying informed through trusted health sources.

He also urged the public to avoid stigmatizing people from affected regions, noting that Ebola transmission is not linked to nationality or ethnicity.

Health experts continue to monitor the outbreak closely, but current assessments indicate no significant threat to World Cup host countries as the tournament approaches.

For the latest on the ebola outbreak, stay informed with Que Onda Magazine.

Tropical moisture set to bring back downpours, ABC13 Weather Watch for Monday

ABC13 Houston
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Tropical moisture set to bring back downpours, ABC13 Weather Watch for Monday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We are in a typical summertime weather pattern for the rest of the week, but we are eyeing a pattern change over the weekend that has us putting out an ABC13 Weather Watch for Monday. That’s when high levels of tropical moisture collide with June’s version of a cool front, which could bring torrential downpours and flash flooding to parts of Southeast Texas. Until that pattern change occurs, expect highs in the low 90s with heat index values above 100 each afternoon.

It will be hot and humid on Thursday with only a 20% chance of a cooling downpour.

When does the tropical air return with higher rain chances?

That will occur on Sunday. At this time we have rain chances at 30% Saturday and 60% Sunday, but the highest chance over the next 10 days is currently reserved for next Monday and Tuesday with 80% and 70% odds, respectively.

Why does it feel so hot even though the air temperature is barely hitting 90?

It has everything to do with the wet ground and high humidity. True, our highs are only hitting the low 90s, but when you factor in all that humidity, it feels about 10 degrees hotter to our bodies.

What are you tracking in the tropics?

Cristina has dissipated in the Pacific, but the remnant moisture is coming for the southwest Gulf. The National Hurricane Center has given the remnants of this storm a 10% chance of re-forming into an Atlantic tropical system over the Bay of Campeche. That’s the moisture that surges in here this weekend and early next week. For the latest on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our Tropical Update page for our daily tropical weather discussion and forecast.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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