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Judge Blocks Deportation of DACA Recipient

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An immigration judge has ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) cannot deport Catalina “Xochitl” Santiago without proof that her legal status was revoked.

Santiago, a 28-year-old DACA recipient from Mexico, has been held at the El Paso Service Processing Center since August after Border Patrol agents stopped her at El Paso International Airport.

Detention Sparks Nationwide Protests

Santiago’s detention ignited demonstrations in El Paso, Phoenix, Chicago, and Boston, where she previously worked with immigrant rights groups.

“Our family and community have suffered every single day since she was taken,” her spouse Desiree Miller said. “Now that the judge threw out her case, she should not spend another night in detention.”

Santiago’s spouse, Desiree Miller, speaks at a rally in favor of Santiago’s release. Screenshot courtesy of Paul Ratje via The Texas Tribune

ICE Plans to Appeal

Despite the ruling, ICE lawyers plan to appeal and will keep Santiago in custody, her attorney Norma Islas told The Texas Tribune. A federal hearing is scheduled for Sept. 23 before U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone, who has ordered that Santiago not be transferred out of El Paso while the case continues.

Background and Legal Battle

Santiago, born in Oaxaca and a member of the Zapotec Indigenous community, has lived in the United States since age 8 and renewed her DACA status six times. Federal courts have preserved DACA protections for current recipients, but the Trump administration has sought to dismantle the program. Homeland Security officials argue that DACA does not guarantee immunity from deportation and cited a 2020 Arizona arrest that prosecutors later declined to pursue.

Supporters Push for Release

Miller said she speaks to Santiago daily by phone and emphasized that her wife remains strong and informed about the detention process. “There’s no reason for them to keep holding her in there,” Miller told The Texas Tribune. “There was no reason for them to detain her in the first place.”

Next Steps

Santiago’s legal team is asking the federal court to order her release while ICE appeals. Judge Cardone noted in her order that constitutional protections apply to everyone within the United States and warned that deporting Santiago now could mean she “may never be able to return.”

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

A steamy forecast for Monday Night Football

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The sunny and warm weather continues for the last full week of summer and will likely stick around as we head into fall.

A couple of isolated showers or storms could develop Monday. The best chance for any of these passing showers and storms will be along and south of I-10. Otherwise, Monday will be another sunny day with a few cumulus clouds and warm conditions. Morning lows will start in the low-mid 70s with afternoon high temperatures reaching the low-mid 90s.

What’s the weather for the Texans home opener for Monday Night Football?

Get ready to swarm NRG Park and Stadium with a mix of sun and clouds and plenty of steam! Be sure to stay hydrated through because temperatures Monday afternoon will be in the mid 90s. Don’t forget the sunscreen too with a mostly sunny to partly cloudy sky for tailgates. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. where temperatures will be in the low 90s at the start of the game and fall into the mid 80s by the fourth quarter.

Are there any decent rain chances over the next 10 days?

Not any really good chances. A heat ridge settling in over Texas will squash our rain chances to 20% or less every day. By the end of next week, high temperatures could also make a run for the upper 90s. Some computer models are showing a hint at a pattern change that could bring better rain chances and slightly cooler weather once fall begins on Sept 22nd, but it’s far from set in stone at this point.

When does fall begin?

The autumnal equinox is on Monday, September 22, marking the end of astronomical summer and the beginning of astronomical fall. Meteorological Fall began on September 1st.

What is happening in the tropics?

There is a high chance for tropical development in the eastern Atlantic over the next 7 days, and there are signs that things could take an active turn the last 10 days of this month. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Gen Z Gender Divide on Politics, Marriage and Kids

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A new NBC News poll highlights a sharp gender gap among Generation Z, not only in politics but also in views on family, success, and mental health. Conducted by SurveyMonkey between Aug. 13 and Sept. 1 with nearly 3,000 respondents ages 18–29, the survey shows just how differently young men and women see the future.

Trump Approval Splits Young Men and Women

Almost half of Gen Z men (47%) said they approve of Donald Trump’s job performance, compared with just 26% of women. That gap is wider than among older generations, according to Pew Research data. Men were also more likely to support Trump’s handling of immigration, trade, and inflation.

The results reflect voting patterns in the 2024 election, when 55% of young men backed Trump compared to 41% of young women. In 2020, those numbers were far lower, underscoring a rightward shift among young men.

Mental Health and Workplace Perceptions

Concerns about the future also differ by gender. Two-thirds of young women said they feel anxious most of the time, compared to less than half of young men. When asked about workplace equality, 69% of men said gender doesn’t matter, while only 51% of women agreed.

Still, both groups chose the same top workplace traits: communication, reliability, adaptability, and collaboration.

Defining Success: Marriage and Children

When ranking markers of success, men and women agreed on the top three: meaningful work, financial independence, and enough money to enjoy life. But beyond that, their priorities diverged.

Young men ranked having children and being married much higher than women, especially among those who voted for Trump. In contrast, young women—particularly those who supported Kamala Harris—placed greater emphasis on emotional stability and community pride.

For the latest on politics, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Mexico Prepares for Historic Woman-led Independence Day Shout

For the first time, Mexico’s annual grito de independencia will be led by a woman. On Monday night, President Claudia Sheinbaum will step onto the balcony of the National Palace and lead tens of thousands gathered in Mexico City’s Zócalo in the traditional cry of “¡Viva México!”

A Year of High Approval

Sheinbaum, who took office on Oct. 1, 2024, remains popular with approval ratings above 70%. Her administration has already seen a 25% drop in homicides, a judicial overhaul mandating elected judges, and concessions with U.S. President Donald Trump to ease trade tensions.

Balancing AMLO’s Legacy

Much of Sheinbaum’s presidency has been shaped by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Once dismissed as his “puppet,” she has instead proven capable of steering his populist movement while softening its tone. She maintains AMLO’s social programs but has adopted a more diplomatic style.

Facing Trump and Security Challenges

Security has marked her biggest departure from AMLO’s approach. Under U.S. pressure, Sheinbaum has pursued cartel crackdowns, fentanyl busts, and extraditions. Meanwhile, she has sought to calm tensions with Trump, who has threatened tariffs and even military action. Sheinbaum has been firm but careful: “Mexico is not a colony of anyone.”

Symbol of Change

Monday’s ceremony will carry both nationalist and feminist energy. Sheinbaum often reminds supporters, “I didn’t arrive alone, I arrived with all Mexican women.” For many, including mothers bringing their daughters to watch, her leadership represents possibility.

As Mexico shouts its independence, it will also celebrate a new chapter in its history.

Follow along with the top headlines from Mexico with Que Onda Magazine.

Rubio Visits Israel After Controversial Strike on Qatar

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Israel to address the ongoing war in Gaza, days after Israel launched an attack on Hamas members in Qatar. The strike, which targeted militants involved in ceasefire talks, has drawn widespread condemnation from international partners, including Qatar, a key US ally.

Before leaving Washington, Rubio acknowledged President Donald Trump was “not happy” about the strike but emphasized the strength of US-Israel ties. “Now we need to move forward and figure out what comes next,” he said.

Ceasefire Efforts Complicated

Hamas leaders had been in Doha discussing a US-backed ceasefire proposal when the Israeli strike hit. Qatar has condemned the action as “cowardly” and a violation of international law. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended it as a justified move against those who organized the October 7, 2023 attacks.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum accused Netanyahu of undermining negotiations, claiming “every time a deal approaches, Netanyahu sabotages it.” Hamas is still holding dozens of Israeli hostages in Gaza, with about 20 believed to be alive.

Escalation in Gaza City

Palestinians move along with efforts to flee war in Gaza. Screenshot Courtesy of Reuters.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces have intensified bombardments in Gaza City, destroying residential blocks and ordering civilians to flee south. Local officials say at least 30 buildings have been leveled in recent days. The UN has warned that further escalation in famine-stricken areas will deepen the humanitarian crisis.

Displaced resident Musbah al-Kafarna told Reuters, “The bombardment intensified everywhere and we took down the tents, more than 20 families, we do not know where to go.”

Mounting Civilian Toll

The Hamas-run health ministry reported 68 deaths from Israeli strikes in a single day, with overall fatalities surpassing 64,000 since the war began. It also claims 144 people have died from starvation and malnutrition since famine was confirmed in August. Israel disputes those figures but says it is increasing aid access.

The war, triggered by Hamas’s October 7 attack that killed about 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages, continues to push Gaza deeper into humanitarian disaster. An emergency Arab-Islamic summit hosted by Qatar on Monday is expected to focus on the fallout from Israel’s strike and next steps toward ceasefire talks.

For more updates on the war in Gaza and the U.S.’s international affairs, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

A steamy Sunday, spot shower possible later in the day

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Another warm day on the way as we approach the end of summer, Sunday’s weather will work out fine for any outdoor plans, just make sure to stay hydrated and seek out some shade whenever you can.

To go along with high temperatures in the low 90s, there is a small, 20% chance for spotty showers in the afternoon and evening.

What’s the weather for the Texans home opener for Monday Night Football?

Get ready to swarm NRG Park and Stadium with beautiful sunny, summery weather! Be sure to stay hydrated through because temperatures Monday afternoon will be in the mid 90s. Don’t forget the sunscreen too with a mostly sunny to partly cloudy sky for tailgates. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. where temperatures will be in the low 90s at the start of the game and fall into the mid 80s by the fourth quarter.

Are there any decent rain chances over the next 10 days?

Not any really good chances. A heat ridge settling in over Texas will squash our rain chances to 20% or less every day. By the end of next week, high temperatures could also make a run for the upper 90s. Some computer models are showing a hint at a pattern change that could bring better rain chances and slightly cooler weather at the start of fall (Sept 22nd), but it’s far from set in stone at this point.

When does fall begin?

The autumnal equinox is on Monday, September 22, marking the end of astronomical summer and the beginning of astronomical fall. That’s also our next chance at a cool-down.

What is happening in the tropics?

There is a high chance for tropical development in the eastern Atlantic over the next 7 days, and there are signs that things could take an active turn the last 10 days of this month. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

California Lawmakers Approve Bill Banning Police Face Masks

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Legislative Action

California lawmakers have passed a bill that would bar most law enforcement officers from covering their faces while conducting official duties. The measure, approved Thursday in the Democratic-controlled Legislature, comes in response to recent immigration raids in Los Angeles.

Scope of the Bill

The legislation prohibits ski masks, neck gaiters, and similar coverings for state, local, and federal officers operating in California. Exceptions are made for undercover work, medical-grade masks such as N95 respirators, and tactical gear used in specific situations.

Governor’s Decision Pending

Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has criticized masked raids in the past, has about a month to decide whether to sign the bill into law. His office declined to comment, noting it does not typically address pending legislation. Newsom has previously questioned whether the state has authority over federal agents, even as he has opposed the use of masks.

Supporters’ Argument

Backers say the law is needed to restore public trust and prevent fear during immigration operations. Assemblymember Juan Carrillo, vice chair of the Latino caucus, argued that masked agents create confusion and terror. “Imagine the absolute fear of being pulled over at gunpoint by a group of masked individuals,” he said.

Legal scholars have also weighed in. UC Berkeley constitutional law expert Erwin Chemerinsky wrote that while states cannot directly regulate federal agencies, federal officers must still follow state laws unless compliance significantly interferes with their duties.

Opposition View

Republican lawmakers and law enforcement agencies contend the ban would make officers more vulnerable. “Bad guys wear masks because they don’t want to get caught. Good guys wear masks because they don’t want to get killed,” said state Sen. Kelly Seyarto.

National Context

California is the first state legislature to approve such a measure, though similar proposals have been introduced in Congress and several other states. The debate reflects broader tensions over immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, where officials defend mask use as a safety measure for agents and their families.

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

New Mexico Becomes First State to Guarantee Universal Child Care

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Policy Details

Starting Nov. 1, New Mexico will provide free universal child care to all families, making it the first state in the nation to do so. The policy removes income eligibility limits and family copayments, saving families an estimated $12,000 per child each year.

Governor’s Statement

“This is about family stability, workforce participation, and New Mexico’s future prosperity,” Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said in a statement. “By investing in universal child care, we are giving families financial relief, supporting our economy, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive.”

Background

The program fulfills a pledge made in 2019, when New Mexico created the Early Childhood Education and Care Department. Since then, the state has gradually expanded free child care to families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level.

Preparing for Demand

To meet anticipated growth, New Mexico is investing in facility expansion and renovation through a low-interest loan fund.

National Context

While several states have expanded early childhood education, New Mexico is the first to guarantee universal child care. Advocates suggest it could serve as a blueprint for others, as polls show that most Americans view child care costs as a major issue and favor government action to address it.

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

Ellen DeGeneres Sued Over 2023 Car Crash in California

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Ellen DeGeneres is facing a negligence lawsuit after being accused of causing a car collision in California last year.

According to court documents filed in Santa Barbara County, a woman alleges that on Oct. 16, 2023, DeGeneres, 67, failed to stop at a stop sign and “t-boned” her vehicle at a four-way intersection.

The plaintiff claims she had come to a complete stop, checked for oncoming traffic, and proceeded through the intersection when DeGeneres “suddenly and without any warning” struck her car. She says the crash left her with “multiple serious personal injuries,” medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. She is seeking unspecified damages.

DeGeneres’s attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The former talk show host ended her long-running daytime program in 2022 following workplace misconduct allegations and later embarked on a final U.S. comedy tour. That same year, she and her wife, Portia de Rossi, purchased a home in England’s Cotswolds. The couple made the move permanent in late 2024, a decision DeGeneres recently said was influenced by Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

“We got here the day before the election and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis,” she said in July. “I was like, ‘He got in.’ And we’re like, ‘We’re staying here.’”

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

Houston Weather: Here’s what to expect for your weekend

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HOUSTON, Texas (KHOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — If you like it hot and humid, you’re going to love Houston’s weather for the remainder of astronomical summer! For everyone else, you could be waiting for weeks to get another taste of fall like we had earlier this week.

What’s in store for the weekend?

For Saturday and Sunday we expect highs in the mid 90s. We can’t rule out a stray shower either day, but we have rain chances at 10% Saturday and 20% on Sunday, so most of us will stay dry. Ozone pollution could also reach unhealthy levels in some Houston area neighborhoods.

Are there any decent rain chances over the next 10 days?

Not really. A heat ridge settling in over Texas will squash our rain chances to less than 20% every day. By the end of next week, high temperatures will also make a run for the upper 90s.

When does fall begin?

The autumnal equinox is on Monday, September 22, marking the end of astronomical summer and the beginning of astronomical fall. The atmosphere doesn’t look like it will play along, with summer-like heat continuing past the equinox.

What is happening in the tropics?

There is a medium chance for tropical development in the far eastern Atlantic over the next 7 days, and there are signs that things could take an active turn the last 10 days of this month. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.