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Live Nation Reaches $280M Settlement With DOJ Over Ticketmaster Monopoly Claims

Live Nation, the parent company of Ticketmaster, has reached a major settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve allegations that its dominance in the ticketing industry harmed competition and consumers.

$280 Million Settlement and Industry Changes

Under the agreement, Live Nation Entertainment will pay $280 million in civil penalties to 40 U.S. states that sued the company over alleged anti-competitive practices.

The settlement also requires the company to:

  • Sell several of its amphitheaters
  • Open Ticketmaster’s technology platform so rival ticket sellers can access its system and reach customers

Sources told CBS News the changes are designed to increase competition in the ticketing marketplace.

Antitrust Case Focused on Market Power

The settlement comes just days after the antitrust trial against Live Nation began in a New York courtroom. Federal prosecutors argued the company used its power in concert promotion and ticketing to block competitors.

“This case is about power — the power of a monopolist to control competition,” Justice Department attorney David Dahlquist said during opening statements on March 3, according to the Associated Press.

Allegations of Higher Ticket Prices

The Justice Department and dozens of states filed the lawsuit in 2024, claiming Live Nation illegally limited competition in both ticket sales and concert promotion. Prosecutors argued the company’s practices drove up ticket prices for fans and restricted venues from choosing alternative ticketing services.

Live Nation has previously defended its business model, saying artists set ticket prices and determine how tickets are sold.

Ticketmaster’s History

Ticketmaster was founded in 1976 in Phoenix, Arizona. In 2010, Live Nation acquired the ticketing platform, forming Live Nation Entertainment, which became the dominant force in the live events and ticketing industry.

More details about the settlement are expected to be announced Monday. Stay tuned to updates with Que Onda Magazine.

Man faces aggravated assault charges after pointing gun at Uber driver, records show

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A man is behind bars after pointing a gun at a rideshare driver in Harris County over the weekend, court documents state.

Records show that 43-year-old Derek Beck was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after he pointed a gun at an Uber driver who used his driveway to make a U-turn on or around March 7.

The documents add that Beck is still in jail and expected to appear in court on March 9.

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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Long TSA waits at Houston airports due to spring break travel, partial government shutdown

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — As spring break begins, officials at Hobby Airport and Bush Intercontinental Airport are warning travelers of long TSA lines due to vacation travel and the partial government shutdown.

In a post on social media, Hobby Airport is advising travelers to arrive at the airport four to five hours before their scheduled flight to allow for extra time at TSA.

“On the way to the airport, everyone started texting in the group chat. TSA is down. It’s hours long wait. Get there ASAP,” Hobby traveler Austin Cuellar said.

Hobby Airport explained that the long wait times are not only due to spring break travel but also to the partial government shutdown. Officials explained that TSA operations may differ from one shift to the next due to the impact of the federal government shutdown. This comes after reports of TSA workers receiving only a portion of their pay on Friday due to the shutdown, according to a CNN report.

“The airport staff are saying it’s three to four hours to get through security because there’s only four lines open right now because of the government shutdown,” Hobby traveler Richard Johnson said.

According to the Hobby Airport’s website, the wait time to pass through the security checkpoint exceeded 120 minutes on Sunday morning.

Houston Airports, which oversees both Hobby Airport and Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), said in a statement that Sunday is one of the busiest days for spring break travel. According to projected travel days, IAH will see 185,000 passengers on Sunday alone. Other projected peak days are March 12 and March 15, according to the statement.

“Houston Airports is ready to welcome approximately 2.2 million travelers during the 2026 Spring Break travel period from March 5 through March 16, a 3% increase over last year,” the statement read.

Officials said in the statement that many passengers will be traveling to vacation destinations from IAH, including Orlando, Cancun, and Las Vegas.

Many travelers braced for the possibility that they might miss their flight.

“We got here at 10 a.m. My flight was departing at 1:50 p.m. We’re not going to make that,” Hobby Traveler Aaron Purvis said. “It’s very unnerving right now. I’m trying to keep high spirits right now to keep everybody else up. But I mean, everybody’s in a bad mood. Hot and sweaty and everything.”

The statement by Houston Airports also acknowledged that many travelers are also coming to Houston throughout this week.

“The Spring Break travel period coincides with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the World Baseball Classic, and expanded cruise departures from Galveston, drawing visitors from around the world,” the statement explained.

Houston Airports advises travelers to arrive at the airport early, monitor wait times online, and arrange parking plans ahead of time.

For more news updates, follow Sarah Al-Shaikh on Facebook and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Rain moves out, leaving foggy conditions behind for Monday morning

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — As the weekend showers and storms move out, foggy conditions will be left in their wake for Monday morning.

We’ll see a few areas of dense fog develop overnight with these humid, muggy conditions continuing with temperatures hovering in the mid-upper 60s. And after a foggy or misty start to Monday, we’ll gradually see those conditions lift into the afternoon with a little sunshine and highs climbing into the low 80s. There’s a 20% chance you run into a passing shower or small storm Monday and Tuesday before our next larger storm system arrives Wednesday. And for that, we have an ABC13 Weather Watch for the chance we get stronger storms with a passing cold front.

What’s the outlook for Spring Break?

It’s going to be a warm and humid start to Spring Break, but we’ll end the week with more seasonal conditions with lower humidity and cooler mornings. Monday and Tuesday will each be warm and humid with foggy mornings and warmer afternoons and the chance for a passing shower. Wednesday is the day that brings the change with a cold front moving through Southeast Texas, potentially bringing a fast-moving line of storms to Houston. For that, we have an ABC13 Weather Watch to account for the chance these storms impact your plants with heavy rainfall, gusty winds and lightning. Once the front clears, we’ll see cooler, drier and less humid conditions settle in for Thursday and Friday.

Tell me more about Wednesday’s ABC13 Weather Watch.

Wednesday we’re expecting a cold front to sweep through Southeast Texas that could bring scattered showers and storms during the day. There’s the chance a few of these storms could be on the stronger side with heavy rainfall, lightning and gusty winds. And since these storms have the potential to impact your Spring Break plans and the rodeo, we’ve got you on ABC13 Weather Watch. Once the front clears, cooler, drier and less humid weather rolls in for Thursday.

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the 40s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the 40s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

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!

How Bilingual News Outlets Keep Houston’s Hispanic Community Informed During Emergencies

How Bilingual News Outlets Keep Houston’s Hispanic Community Informed During Emergencies

When storms hit Houston, getting timely, clear information in both Spanish and English can mean the difference between safety and confusion. The Houston Hispanic community relies on bilingual news Houston outlets like ¡Que Onda Magazine! to deliver real-time emergency alerts Houston residents trust. From hurricane updates Houston to flood and power outage updates Houston, this coverage keeps you connected and prepared when every minute counts. For more insights on the critical role of bilingual communication during emergencies, visit here.

Bilingual News Coverage in Houston

Bilingual news plays a crucial role in keeping the Houston Hispanic community informed during emergencies. These updates help bridge language gaps and ensure everyone stays aware and safe.

Fast and Accurate Updates

When a storm is approaching, you need information quickly. ¡Que Onda Magazine! is committed to delivering fast and accurate updates in both Spanish and English. This ensures you get the news you need without delay. For example, during the recent hurricane, alerts were sent out every hour. This included critical information about evacuation routes Houston and safety measures. Many rely on trusted local news Houston for these updates, as the magazine partners with trusted outlets like ABC13 Houston and Telemundo Houston.

Coordination with Local Partners

Coordinating with local partners is key to effective news dissemination. ¡Que Onda Magazine! works closely with emergency services and community leaders. This collaboration ensures that the emergency alerts Houston receives are timely and relevant. By working together, they can provide you with comprehensive coverage that includes flood updates Houston and power outage updates Houston. This partnership is not just about sharing information; it’s about creating a network of support during critical times. To learn more about how local media collaborates during crises, check out this article.

Engaging Houston’s Hispanic Community

Engagement with the community is more than just delivering news. It involves building trust and offering resources that empower residents during emergencies.

Building Trust Through Transparency

Trust is built through transparency and reliability. ¡Que Onda Magazine! prioritizes clear communication to ensure you feel informed and secure. They offer consistent updates and fact-checked information, which helps build credibility. When most people think about news, they expect accuracy. But here, it’s also about trust. Regular surveys show that 90% of readers find their updates reliable. This feedback is crucial in maintaining and growing trust within the Houston Hispanic community.

Empowering Residents with Resources

Having the right resources can make a huge difference during emergencies. ¡Que Onda Magazine! provides guides and tools to help you prepare. This includes tips on storm preparation Houston and access to Houston emergency resources. Knowing where to find help can be just as important as the news itself. The magazine also offers workshops and online resources to educate the community on emergency preparedness. To explore more about empowering diverse communities, visit this link.

Customizing Emergency Alert Systems

Customizing alert systems to meet the needs of a diverse community ensures everyone gets the information they need, when they need it.

Real-Time Alerts and Notifications

Real-time alerts are essential in emergencies. ¡Que Onda Magazine! uses various platforms to reach you, including WhatsApp alerts Houston. This instant communication means you get the latest updates directly, no matter where you are. Alerts cover everything from hurricane updates Houston to heat advisory Houston notices. This proactive approach ensures that information is not just available but accessible to all. Learn more about the importance of real-time communication here.

Tools for Diverse Community Needs

Each community has unique needs, and ¡Que Onda Magazine! addresses these by offering tailored tools. Whether it’s bilingual alerts or cultural insights, they ensure the community stays informed. This includes addressing specific concerns like evacuation routes Houston and providing bilingual emergency information. By understanding and addressing these needs, they help foster a sense of belonging and security. For further insights, explore the Texas Department of Emergency Management.

In summary, ¡Que Onda Magazine! stands as a pillar of support for the Houston Hispanic community, delivering timely, bilingual emergency information across various platforms. This commitment to fast, accurate updates, community engagement, and customized alert systems not only informs but also empowers residents, ensuring safety and preparedness.

Explosion Reported Outside US Embassy in Oslo

Authorities in Oslo are investigating an early-morning explosion outside the U.S. Embassy in Oslo that damaged part of the building’s entrance but caused no injuries.

Police said they received reports of a “loud bang” at around 1 a.m. Sunday.

Incendiary Device Suspected

According to investigators with the Oslo Police District, the blast was likely caused by an incendiary device placed near the embassy. Officials believe the diplomatic building may have been the intended target.

Frode Larsen, head of the police joint unit for investigation and intelligence, said authorities are working through multiple possible motives while searching for suspects.

“We are early in the investigation, but we are working based on multiple hypotheses,” Larsen said.

Backpack Device Exploded Near Consular Office

A U.S. official said the explosive device was reportedly inside a backpack and detonated near the entrance to the embassy’s Consular Affairs section.

Witnesses told local media that thick smoke covered the street after the explosion.

Security Response Underway

Norway’s police security service, Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), deployed additional personnel following the incident but has not raised the country’s terror threat level.

Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway’s justice and public security minister, called the explosion “an unacceptable incident” and said police are dedicating significant resources to the investigation.

Authorities say there is currently no indication of a broader threat to the public.

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

18-year-old charged with capital murder after deadly shooting in Houston Heights, HPD says

By Brianna Willis, ABC13 Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston police said an 18-year-old suspect is now charged with capital murder after a woman was shot and killed early Saturday morning.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Woman shot and killed in Houston Heights, person in custody after hours long standoff, HPD says

Investigators said they identified the suspect as Darius Hall, 18, after he was taken into custody after an hours-long standoff on Saturday.

According to the Houston Police Department, officers responded to a call about a shooting that happened around midnight on Saturday on 20th Street near Lawrence Street. When officers arrived, they said they found the woman lying on the sidewalk after being shot in the neck, allegedly by Hall during an attempted robbery.

Officials said first responders took her to the hospital, where the victim was later pronounced dead. Authorities have not released information on the victim’s identity.

According to police, Hall stole the victim’s car after the shooting. He then crashed it near the Southwest Freeway feeder at Buffalo Speedway before hiding in a vacant townhome apartment unit, investigators said.

Police said Hall then barricaded himself in the unit for several hours during a standoff with authorities. Hall was later apprehended by SWAT officers and taken into custody, HPD said.

According to court documents, Hall is charged with capital murder, evading arrest, and tampering with evidence, all of which are felony charges. Records also revealed that Hall is under juvenile supervision for four previous charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

For news updates, follow Brianna Willis on Facebookx and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Improvised Explosive Device Thrown During Protests Outside NYC Mayor’s Home

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An improvised explosive device was thrown during dueling protests outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of Zohran Mamdani, prompting a major police response and multiple arrests, according to authorities.

Officials with the New York City Police Department said six people were arrested following the tense demonstration in New York City on Saturday.

Police Confirm Device Was a Real Explosive

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the department’s Bomb Squad determined that one of the devices thrown during the protest was a genuine improvised explosive device (IED).

According to Tisch, the device was ignited before being thrown and was not a hoax or smoke bomb.

“It is, in fact, an improvised explosive device that could have caused serious injury or death,” Tisch said. Investigators are also analyzing a second suspicious device recovered at the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke as the device traveled through the air before hitting a barrier and extinguishing a few feet from police officers.

Anti-Muslim Protest Sparks Counterdemonstration

Police said about 20 demonstrators linked to far-right activist Jake Lang gathered outside the mayor’s residence for an anti-Muslim protest. Around 120 counterprotesters also assembled nearby, escalating tensions.

Authorities said one protester allegedly used pepper spray on a counterprotester and was arrested.

Police later detained two suspects—ages 18 and 19—who were allegedly involved with the explosive devices. Officials said the devices appeared to be jars wrapped in black tape and filled with nuts, bolts, screws, and a hobby fuse.

Mayor Condemns Violence and Hate

Mayor Mamdani condemned the protest and the use of violence, calling the incident an attack on the city’s values.

“Such hate has no place in New York City,” Mamdani said in a statement, adding that attempts to harm others with explosives are “reprehensible.”

A spokesperson confirmed that the mayor and his wife were safe during the incident.

Investigation Ongoing

In addition to the suspects connected to the devices and the pepper spray incident, three others were arrested for disorderly conduct and blocking traffic.

No injuries were reported, and the investigation remains ongoing. Police praised officers at the scene for quickly responding and securing the area.

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

Deaf 6-Year-Old Deported to Colombia Without Hearing Aid, Attorney Says

A six-year-old deaf boy was deported from the United States alongside his family without access to his hearing aid, according to an attorney representing them.

Family Detained During ICE Check-In

The child, his younger brother, and their mother, Lesly Rodriguez Gutierrez, were detained earlier this week during a routine appointment with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in San Francisco.

The family, asylum seekers from Colombia, had been living in Hayward, California, for about five years before being transferred through multiple detention centers and eventually deported.

Attorney Raises Due Process Concerns

Their lawyer, Nikolas De Bremaeker of Centro Legal de la Raza, said he struggled to locate the family for two days before finding them at a detention facility in Arizona.

According to De Bremaeker, the child was denied access to his hearing aid after a relative attempted to deliver it at the ICE office.

“This child has been dragged from detention center to detention center,” he said, calling the situation “inhuman, illegal, and unconstitutional.”

Officials Demand Child’s Return

The boy previously attended the California School for the Deaf in Fremont. Tony Thurmond, California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, condemned the deportation and urged federal officials to return the child to his school community.

“No child should be ripped from their home community,” Thurmond said.

DHS Responds

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Gutierrez received full due process and had been issued a final removal order in November 2024.

Officials said she chose to leave the U.S. with her children, and the family returned to Colombia on March 5.

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

Iran Selects New Supreme Leader as War With US and Israel Intensifies

Iran’s clerical leadership has reportedly chosen a new supreme leader following the death of longtime leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike last week.

Assembly of Experts Holds Vote

A member of Iran’s powerful Assembly of Experts, Ahmad Alamolhoda, confirmed to Iranian state media that the council elected a new leader during a recent meeting. However, officials have not yet publicly revealed the successor’s name.

According to reports, members of the assembly are divided on how and when the announcement should be made. Some believe the decision can be revealed immediately, while others argue another session is needed before confirming the choice.

Security Concerns Delay Announcement

The delay may also be linked to security threats. The Israel Defense Forces warned it would target any successor to Khamenei, raising concerns about the safety of the new leader.

In a message posted in Farsi on X, the Israeli military said it would pursue anyone involved in appointing the next leader.

War Continues to Escalate

The leadership decision comes as the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel enters its ninth day. The war began after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran on Feb. 28.

Israeli forces have struck sites in Tehran and southern Lebanon, including oil storage facilities, while Iranian attacks have targeted regional infrastructure such as a desalination plant in Bahrain.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the next phase of the conflict could bring “many surprises.”

Officials report that the conflict has already killed more than 1,200 people in Iran, hundreds in Lebanon, and several in Israel.

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