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USCG rescue swimmer who saved children during July 4 flood to serve as rodeo parade grand marshal

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’s time to dust off your Western heritage gear (although rocking it anytime is absolutely allowed around here) and make sure your cowboy boots are ready for the spotlight as we celebrate the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade.

Watch LIVE on ABC13 | SATURDAY, FEB. 28 at 10 A.M.

The festivities will again kick off from downtown Houston, with decorative floats, marching bands, wagons, trail riders and horses all stepping off for the parade on Walker St. at Bagby St.

The parade will snake around to Travis St., Bell St., Louisiana St., and Lamar St. before finishing there at Bagby.

The rodeo parade also has a grand marshal, and this year, U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan will take on the role.

Ruskan, 26, executed multiple high-risk rescues, saving 165 children from raging waters during the Independence Day flash floods in the Texas Hill Country.

Ruskan continues to serve on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard, where he supports search-and-rescue operations across the Gulf Coast.

You can read more about Ruskan here.

Where’s the best place to watch?

Be sure to arrive early downtown to secure a good spot.

According to the rodeo, the best places to view the parade are on Louisiana, from Bell to Lamar, Lamar, and from Louisiana to Smith.

Bagby and Walker streets, from Sabine Street to Bagby, will be off limits for viewing.

Street closures

Like with many parades downtown, you should expect streets to be closed that morning not only for the parade, but even earlier for the Rodeo Run, which begins at 8:30 a.m.

A quick note about the Rodeo Run: It will run the entire parade route and can be seen on Allen Parkway from I-45 to Shepherd/Kirby.

Streets will reopen around 2 p.m. after all events have concluded.

Parking

You may want to head for the public parking garages in downtown and the Theater District.

Keep in mind, each garage will have its own parking fees, and they’re also available to parade viewers.

Garages include: Alley Theater Garage, One Market Square Garage (Rodeo Mural), Lyric Center, and 1100 Smith Garage.

You can also use parking available at Texas and Smith, Smith and Preston, Smith and Dallas, Smith and Clay, and Walker and Main.

Tell me more about the parade

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade is a tradition dating back to 1938, officially launching rodeo season in the nation’s fourth largest city.

ABC13 began televising the Rodeo Parade in 1959, using three cameras to broadcast the sights and sounds of the celebration to viewers across southeast Texas.

WATCH: ABC13’s first Rodeo Parade Broadcast

We’ve been broadcasting and livestreaming the parade every year since, solidifying the long-term relationship between ABC13 and RODEOHOUSTON.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world.

This year, the rodeo runs from March 2-22, 2026.

WATCH: Scenes from the 1966 Rodeo Parade in Houston

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Netflix CEO Responds to Trump’s Demand to Remove Susan Rice Amid Warner Bros. Bid

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has addressed calls from President Donald Trump urging the company to remove Susan Rice from its board, emphasizing that the company’s pursuit of Warner Bros. assets is strictly business.

“A Business Deal, Not Political”

In an interview with the BBC, Sarandos dismissed the controversy, saying Netflix’s attempt to acquire parts of Warner Bros. Discovery is “a business deal… not a political deal.” He noted the transaction will ultimately be evaluated by regulators, including the U.S. Department of Justice and international authorities.

Trump’s criticism followed comments Rice made on a podcast about corporations aligning politically, prompting him to warn Netflix to remove her “or pay the consequences” in a social media post.

Sarandos downplayed the president’s involvement, remarking that Trump “likes to do a lot of things on social media.”

High-Stakes Media Battle

The political pressure comes as Netflix competes with Paramount Global for control of Warner Bros. Discovery assets. Netflix is reportedly seeking streaming and studio operations in what Sarandos described as a “vertical merger” that would expand the market rather than reduce competition. Paramount, by contrast, is pursuing a broader acquisition of the entire company.

Warner Bros. Discovery’s board recently granted Paramount a short window to improve its offer, with reports indicating a bid of at least $31 per share—higher than a previous $30 proposal submitted in late 2025.

Political Influence Concerns

Media analyst Peter Kafka described Trump’s demand as an “extraordinary use of power,” highlighting concerns that the White House could influence regulatory decisions tied to the merger, regardless of public statements to the contrary.

For Netflix, the outcome could reshape the entertainment landscape, potentially strengthening its studio pipeline and global streaming dominance—if regulators approve the deal.

For more business news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Northeast Houston wildfire could prompt evacuations, fire department says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Fire Department said that its Wildland Division is managing a wildfire in northeast Houston near Greens Bayou and John Ralston Road.

Authorities said that the fire stretches across roughly 175 acres, and 30% of it has been contained.

Residents in Verde Forest and those east of Thorn Street and north of Caddo Road should be prepared to to evacuate if conditions change, officials said, adding that winds with smoke are expected to shift south in the coming days.

HFD requests that everyone, including those driving utility terrain and off-road vehicles, avoid the area, as traffic affects operations.

The fire department said that crews will be on the scene for several days until the fire is completely contained.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston. For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.

Winter has returned with chilly morning temperatures through Tuesday

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We’ve got two chilly mornings on tap this week before warmer, spring-like temperatures return once again.

Temperatures Monday morning will fall into the upper 30s or low 40s across Southeast Texas. Closer to College Station lows could even be in the mid 30s, possibly allowing for areas of patchy frost to form. Widespread frost is not expected at this time for most of Houston and Southeast Texas Monday morning, but it will be quite chilly so make sure you have a jacket for the morning rush. Afternoon highs will climb back into the low-mid 60s under a bright sunny sky. The breeze will also be lighter Monday, out of the north, at about 10-15 mph. It’s then Monday night into Tuesday morning when areas of frost could develop across the region with a lighter breeze, clear sky and morning lows dropping into the mid-upper 30s.

Besides the cold weather this week, any more potential forty mornings in sight?

Tuesday morning is the best chance we have for frost as it’s both the coldest morning in our 10 Day forecast. You might want to cover any cold sensitive plants or take them inside Monday night as a precaution, especially north of Houston. Otherwise, the forecast is looking warm heading into March.

With it feeling more like spring, any signs of oak pollen yet?

Nope, not yet! Tree pollen has been a bit high this week with counts of Cedar, Birch and Elm. Mold spore counts have also increased this past week because of the humidity, but those counts should go down early next week.

Any more strong cold fronts on the way?

We are monitoring another cold front that could swing through Southeast Texas Thursday evening. This front looks to be significantly weaker though with not much rain or even a temperature drop behind the front. Long range models also hint at another front within the first week of March that could bring both rain and cooler temperatures but it’s still way too early to promise either.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival Returns for Spring Break Fun

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Houston families looking for an out-of-this-world staycation can mark their calendars for the return of the Moon 2 Mars Festival at Space Center Houston, happening March 11–14. Now in its fifth year and presented by Wellby Financial, the event blends hands-on STEM experiences with live music, food, and exclusive access to space exploration attractions.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits during the day and enjoy concerts at night, including performances by The Wallflowers on March 13 and 311 on March 14.

NASA Experiences and Interactive STEM Activities

As the official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston will offer tram tours to astronaut training facilities, Rocket Park, and the Johnson Space Center campus. Festival grounds will also feature robotics demos, rocket-building activities, VR experiences, and educational programming for all ages.

“The Moon to Mars Festival is a spring break destination that offers a unique experience for families, space enthusiasts, food lovers, and music fans,” said William Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston.

20250315-Houston Texas. Space Center Houston hosted their annual Moon 2 Mars Festival. Photo by David Duncan Photography LLC

Innovation, Food, and Nighttime Entertainment

The festival’s Innovation Tent will showcase emerging space technologies with participation from organizations including the United States Space Force and aerospace company Intuitive Machines. Guests can also enjoy planetarium shows, science DJ performances, and immersive exhibits such as The Moonwalkers experience.

Food will be available throughout the event, including festival favorites prepared by celebrity chef partner Wolfgang Puck, along with a themed beer garden featuring a new Space Center Houston collaboration brew.

A Festival for the Whole Community

Organizers say the event is designed to inspire curiosity while creating memorable spring break experiences.

“We’re proud to sponsor the Moon 2 Mars Festival at such a pivotal moment in human space exploration,” said Marty Pell, president and CEO of Wellby Financial.

Tickets are available through Space Center Houston, with daytime activities included in admission and concerts offered as special ticketed events.

For more ideas on things to do in Houston, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

When Seconds Matter: How Local Bilingual Media Supports Houston’s Hispanic Community in Crisis

When Seconds Matter: How Local Bilingual Media Supports Houston’s Hispanic Community in Crisis

When Houston faces storms, power outages, or heat advisories, every second counts for its Hispanic community. Que Onda Magazine stands ready with fast, verified Houston Hispanic news in both English and Spanish, cutting through confusion when it matters most. You’ll see how this bilingual media Houston partner delivers clear crisis communication Houston relies on, guiding you to vital emergency alerts Houston and community resources Houston you can trust.

Bilingual Media in Crisis

In moments of crisis, accurate and timely information can make all the difference. That’s where Que Onda Magazine steps in, providing real-time updates that the Houston Hispanic community can rely on.

Fast and Verified Updates

Imagine a storm hitting your neighborhood. You need information quickly, in a language you understand. Que Onda Magazine offers just that. Their team works tirelessly to bring you the latest news, ensuring it’s both fast and reliable. This isn’t just about reporting; it’s about being a trusted source when every second matters.

Their bilingual coverage means you can choose to read in English or Spanish, making sure no one is left out. This approach not only informs but also empowers you to make informed decisions during emergencies.

Building Trust in Emergencies

Trust isn’t given; it’s earned. During emergencies, Que Onda Magazine has proven itself as a reliable partner. Most people think news is just about facts, but it’s also about trust. By providing accurate and quick updates, Que Onda builds a relationship with its readers that goes beyond typical reporting.

In times of crisis, having a source you can trust reduces anxiety and confusion. You know you’re getting the truth, which is crucial when making decisions for your family’s safety.

Guiding to Community Resources

Que Onda Magazine doesn’t stop at just reporting news. They guide you to the community resources you need. Whether it’s finding a shelter during a storm or accessing food banks during a power outage, they’ve got you covered. They know the longer you wait, the harder it can be to find the help you need.

By connecting you to local resources, Que Onda ensures you get the support you deserve. This is about more than news; it’s about community care and connection.

Real-Time Coverage During Storms

Storms can disrupt life in an instant, but with Que Onda Magazine, you’re never in the dark. Their real-time coverage keeps you informed and prepared.

Storm Updates Houston

When a storm approaches, you’re on edge. You need updates that help you prepare. Que Onda Magazine provides real-time storm updates Houston residents rely on. Their detailed reports cover everything from storm paths to safety tips, helping you stay one step ahead.

They don’t just give you the basics. You get comprehensive information, ensuring you understand the full scope of the situation. This way, you’re not just reacting; you’re proactively protecting your family.

Heat Advisory Houston Alerts

Heat can be just as dangerous as storms. Que Onda Magazine delivers heat advisory Houston alerts, so you know when to take action. They provide practical advice on staying cool and hydrated, ensuring your safety during intense heat.

Many assume that heat doesn’t require the same level of attention as storms. However, Que Onda challenges that notion by highlighting the risks and offering solutions. This proactive approach can make all the difference for your health and well-being.

Power Outage Resources Houston

Power outages are more than an inconvenience. They can be a serious threat. Que Onda Magazine connects you with power outage resources Houston residents need. From updates on restoration times to tips for keeping food safe, they have you covered.

Their coverage ensures you’re not left in the dark—literally and figuratively. By providing this vital information, Que Onda helps you navigate these challenging moments with confidence.

Engaging Houston’s Hispanic Community

Que Onda Magazine isn’t just a news outlet; it’s a community partner. They engage Houston’s Hispanic community in meaningful ways.

Houston News in English and Spanish

Language shouldn’t be a barrier to staying informed. Que Onda Magazine offers Houston news in English and Spanish, ensuring everyone has access to the information they need. This bilingual approach fosters inclusivity and ensures no one is left behind.

Their dual-language reporting challenges the assumption that news should be one-size-fits-all. Que Onda proves that catering to the diverse needs of their audience is both possible and essential.

Community Resources Houston

Que Onda Magazine goes beyond news, providing community resources Houston families depend on. Whether you’re looking for local events or need assistance programs, they point you in the right direction.

This isn’t just about information; it’s about building a connected community. Que Onda Magazine acts as a bridge, bringing people together and strengthening local ties.

Partnering with ABC13 and Telemundo

Collaboration is key to comprehensive coverage. Que Onda Magazine partners with ABC13 and Telemundo, ensuring you get a wide range of perspectives and expertise. This partnership enhances the quality and reach of their reporting.

By joining forces with these respected outlets, Que Onda amplifies its impact, bringing you the best of local and national news. It’s a testament to their commitment to serving Houston’s Hispanic community with excellence and integrity.

For more insights into how bilingual news benefits the Hispanic community, check out Que Onda Magazine. Explore how crisis information reaches diverse communities at Houston Public Media. To stay connected, follow Que Onda Magazine on Facebook.

Free Tax Preparation Help Available for Houston Seniors and Families

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones is partnering with AARP to offer free tax preparation assistance to seniors and residents of all ages during the 2026 tax season.

The initiative aims to help families save money, avoid costly filing fees, and maximize eligible tax credits as many households continue to face rising living expenses. Services will be provided in both English and Spanish on a first-come, first-served basis, and no registration is required.

Who Can Get Help

The free assistance is open to:

  • Seniors
  • Working families
  • Individuals needing help filing taxes
  • Spanish- and English-speaking residents

Organizers say the program is designed to ensure residents keep more of their earnings while receiving accurate filing support from trained volunteers.

Locations, Dates, and Times

Residents can receive assistance at three Harris County community centers:

Radack Community Center
18650 Clay Road, Houston, TX 77084
Saturdays through March 28
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Tracy Gee Community Center
3599 Westcenter Drive, Houston, TX 77042
Mondays and Tuesdays through April 14
Noon – 4 p.m.

Fonteno Senior Education Center
6600 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77074
Weekdays through April 15
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Helping Residents Keep More Money

County leaders say free tax preparation services can make a meaningful financial difference for households, especially those eligible for credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit.

Officials encourage community members to share the information with friends, family, and neighbors who may benefit from the program before tax deadlines arrive.

For more community resources, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Nine Skiers Confirmed Dead After Sierra Nevada Avalanche; Investigation Underway

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All nine missing skiers have been found dead following a catastrophic backcountry avalanche near Castle Peak in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, authorities confirmed. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office said recovery teams located the victims over two days after the Feb. 17 slide, which is now under investigation for possible criminal negligence.

Sheriff Shannan Moon said officials are still determining what decisions were made before the avalanche, which occurred during the final day of a three-day ski tour. The slide happened amid “high” danger warnings issued by the Sierra Avalanche Center and was classified as a powerful D2.5 avalanche spanning roughly a football field.

Many victims were Marin County parents connected to a nearby ski academy, along with three professional guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides. Six others survived after sheltering for hours in hazardous conditions before being rescued.

A separate workplace safety review has also been opened by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health. Families of the victims say they still have unanswered questions as investigators work to determine whether negligence contributed to the tragedy.

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

Expedited Airport Programs Suspended Amid DHS Shutdown: What Travelers Need to Know

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A partial funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is forcing a rare nationwide suspension of expedited airport screening programs, including TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, beginning Sunday morning. The move is expected to cause longer lines at airports and ports of entry across the United States, particularly as winter weather disruptions and the upcoming spring break travel season strain the system.

Why TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Are Being Halted

DHS officials say the suspension is necessary to redirect personnel to standard screening operations during the shutdown. According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, staff assigned to expedited programs will instead assist the broader traveling public.

The programs, which provide faster security screening for pre-approved travelers, were not paused during the previous year’s government shutdown—making this decision unusual and potentially more disruptive.

Longer Lines Expected Nationwide

The timing could worsen travel delays:

  • A major winter storm has already caused thousands of flight cancellations nationwide.
  • Airports are preparing for increased passenger volume as flights resume.
  • Spring break travel demand is expected to surge in the coming weeks.

Without expedited screening lanes, travelers who normally rely on PreCheck or Global Entry may face standard security wait times.

Additional Impacts: FEMA Shifts Priorities

The shutdown is also affecting disaster preparedness. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will pause non-disaster operations to focus resources on active emergencies, highlighting the broader consequences of the funding lapse across DHS agencies.

Political Backlash and Industry Concerns

The decision has drawn criticism from lawmakers and travel industry leaders. Representative Bennie Thompson, the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, condemned the move, arguing it would increase wait times and place additional strain on unpaid federal workers.

Meanwhile, U.S. Travel Association warned that travelers should not be caught in political disputes, emphasizing that efficient travel is critical to the U.S. economy.

What Travelers Should Do Now

With expedited programs suspended, travelers should prepare for:

  • Earlier airport arrival times (at least 2–3 hours before departure for domestic flights).
  • Potentially longer customs processing for international arrivals.
  • Continued disruptions from weather-related delays.

Officials say the suspension will remain in effect until DHS funding is restored.

For more on the TSA screening updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Thieves steal multiple AC units from northwest Harris County church, executive pastor says

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HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — The First Metropolitan Church in northwest Harris County isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a place with a food pantry that provides for many in need.

“That’s all we want to do, serve people and do the work of the Lord.” But lately to fulfill that mission, Evelyn Ogletree, who is the church’s executive pastor, says they’re having to jump through several hurdles.

“Our budget is already slim. You know, churches are trying to recover from COVID, the freeze and all the stuff we had to miss out on.” And this past Monday, came another setback.

Ogletree told ABC13 that a group of thieves stole four of their air conditioning units. She feels, after looking through security footage, the suspects knew what they were doing.

“They took out our light that comes in when you come. But the light came on enough for us to get the picture. One of the guys got up on the ladder and unscrewed that. And they went on the poles to turn the cameras out of view.” And to get their hands on the units, she says they got through an iron fence.

“They are just cutting the locks off, and cutting the gate and coming on in, so that’s never happened to us before.” Not only do church leaders have to worry about serving the community, they have to find a way to take care of their own volunteers.

“They need to get out of the heat into the air conditioning, just for a little while. Most, if not all, are seniors, so they need to sit down and rest and cool off.” In the meantime, Ogletree and others are relying on their strong faith to help get through this difficult time.

“I know God is looking out for us and I know God is going to make sure they get caught.”

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For updates, follow Mo Haider on FacebookX and Instagram.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.