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Trump Sparks a Redistricting Arms Race

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Sparks a Redistricting Arms Race

President Donald Trump encouraged Republican-led states to redraw maps to boost GOP seats, prompting Democratic-led states to respond in kind. California Gov. Gavin Newsom framed the effort as retaliation, saying Trump “started this redistricting war.”

The Supreme Court’s 2019 ruling that partisan gerrymandering claims are not subject to federal review has further opened the door to aggressive mapmaking, even as racially discriminatory maps remain challengeable.

Republican-Led States Advancing New Maps

Several GOP-controlled states are moving forward with redistricting that could favor Republicans:

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called a special session to consider maps that could weaken three to five Democratic seats, though a state constitutional amendment poses legal challenges.

Ohio approved a new map that could help Republicans flip two Democratic districts due to a state law requiring a redraw.

Missouri enacted a map that dismantles a Democratic-held Kansas City seat, though lawsuits and a potential referendum loom.

North Carolina approved a GOP-backed map designed to flip a Democratic seat, with no veto power granted to the governor under state law.

Republican Efforts That Fell Short

Not all GOP efforts succeeded.

Indiana’s Republican-controlled Senate rejected a Trump-backed plan that would have tilted all nine House seats toward Republicans.

Kansas lawmakers abandoned a similar effort after concluding they lacked enough support to override a veto from Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

Democratic Gains Sought in Other States

Democrats are also pursuing redistricting advantages in several states:

Virginia lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment that could allow redrawing maps to flip up to four seats, though it must still be approved by voters and survive legal challenges.

Utah saw a state judge strike down a GOP-drawn map, replacing it with one that could flip a Republican-held seat.

New York is redrawing a Staten Island-based district after a court order, potentially putting a GOP seat in play.

Maryland Effort Stalls

In Maryland, Democrats attempted to target the state’s lone Republican House seat, but the effort stalled after state Senate leaders said there was insufficient support to move forward.

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

Penny the Doberman Makes History at the 150th Westminster Dog Show

Michael Esparza
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Penny the Doberman Makes History at the 150th Westminster Dog Show

Penny Crowned Best in Show

A four-year-old Doberman Pinscher named Penny has been named Best in Show at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City, securing one of the most prestigious titles in the dog world. The working group winner stood out among seven finalists in the packed arena at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night.

Penny’s victory came at a milestone edition of Westminster, which marked its 150th year and remains the second-longest continuously run sporting event in the United States. The win also added to the Doberman Pinscher’s legacy at Westminster, with Penny becoming the fifth of her breed to take the top prize.

Beating Thousands for the Title

This year’s Westminster show drew more than 3,000 dogs from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and over a dozen other countries, representing just over 200 breeds. After breed and group judging narrowed the field, Penny advanced from the Working Group to the final Best in Show ring.

In the last round, Penny competed against six other elite dogs that had each earned Best in Group in categories such as Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, Sporting, and Terrier. Judge David Fitzpatrick, presiding over the historic Best in Show lineup, described the 2026 field as one that would “go down in history” for its overall quality.

Handler’s Long-Awaited Moment

Penny was handled by veteran dog man Andy Linton, who is no stranger to the Westminster spotlight. Linton previously guided another Doberman, Indy, to a Best in Show win at Westminster in 1989, making this latest triumph a long-awaited repeat at the top level.

Linton has spoken about setting specific goals for his show career, with another Westminster Best in Show firmly on that list. With Penny’s performance on Tuesday night, that ambition became reality as the pair posed for photos with the iconic purple-and-gold ribbon and trophy.

A Historic Year for Westminster

The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show featured several days of competition, including agility and other canine sports, before culminating in the traditional conformation finals at Madison Square Garden. The event is broadcast nationally and continues to attract top show dogs, seasoned handlers, and passionate fans from around the world.

Last year’s Westminster winner, Monty the Giant Schnauzer, was honored as part of a special tribute to past champions often referred to as “legends” of the show. Penny now joins that storied list, earning her place in Westminster history as the Best in Show winner of its sesquicentennial edition.

What’s Next for Penny

With the Westminster title secured, Penny is expected to embark on a busy post-show schedule that typically includes national media appearances and public events. As a newly minted Westminster champion, she will also help spotlight the Doberman Pinscher breed, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and working ability.

For now, the sport’s newest star leaves Manhattan as America’s top dog, capping an unforgettable night at Madison Square Garden and a landmark year for the Westminster Kennel Club.

Make Your Message Local: How Community Organizations Can Maximize Reach Through Houston Media

Que Onda Editorial
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Make Your Message Local: How Community Organizations Can Maximize Reach Through Houston Media

Make Your Message Local: How Community Organizations Can Maximize Reach Through Houston Media

Most community groups in Houston struggle to break through noisy local media. You’re pouring time into event promotion Houston outlets barely notice. This guide lays out clear steps for community organization PR that gets results—covering everything from crafting a sharp press release Houston reporters can’t ignore to tapping bilingual media Houston outlets trust. Stick with us, and you’ll learn how to put your story where Houston Hispanic media and the Latino audience really pay attention. For more insights, you can check out this resource.

Identifying the Right Outlets

To make your voice heard, knowing where to speak is key. Let’s dive into finding the right spots in Houston to amplify your message.

Houston Hispanic Media Landscape

When reaching out, understanding the media landscape is crucial. Houston has a rich mix of outlets that cater to diverse audiences. ¡Que Onda Magazine! stands out as a top choice for those aiming to connect with the Hispanic community. This magazine not only covers the latest news but also cultural events that resonate with local readers.

  • Example: Consider a community event that celebrates Hispanic heritage. ¡Que Onda Magazine! would be an ideal platform to highlight the event, reaching both English and Spanish-speaking audiences.

  • Insight: More than 40% of Houston’s population identifies as Hispanic. Targeting such a significant demographic can maximize your reach.

For a more strategic approach, explore outreach strategies examples that can enhance your engagement.

Building Relationships with Reporters

Forming solid connections with reporters can be your secret weapon in gaining media coverage. Start by identifying key journalists who cover topics related to your organization.

  1. Research: Find out who writes about community events or nonprofit initiatives in local newspapers or online platforms.

  2. Personalize Your Approach: When reaching out, mention specific articles they’ve written that align with your cause. This shows that you’ve done your homework and genuinely appreciate their work.

  3. Be Helpful: Offer exclusive stories or insights that would interest their audience. Reporters are more likely to cover stories that provide unique content.

By establishing these relationships, you can increase the chances of your events or announcements being featured. For more tips on engaging with media personnel, visit advancing community-centered journalism.

Crafting a Compelling Press Kit

A press kit is your organization’s calling card. It tells the media why your story matters and why they should cover it.

Essential Elements of a Media Kit

A well-crafted media kit contains several key components. Here’s what you need to include:

  • Fact Sheet: A concise overview of your organization, including its mission and key achievements.

  • Bios: Brief biographies of key personnel or spokespersons who can provide quotes or interviews.

  • Images: High-quality images of your events or projects that can be used by the media.

  • Contact Information: Make it easy for journalists to reach out with questions or to schedule interviews.

A complete kit not only provides information but also makes it easier for media outlets to cover your story. For a detailed checklist, see media kit checklist.

Writing Newsworthy Angles

To capture a reporter’s attention, your story needs a hook. What makes your event or announcement newsworthy? Here are some ways to find that angle:

  • Timeliness: Does your event tie into a current trend or holiday?

  • Impact: How will it affect the community or contribute to a larger cause?

  • Human Interest: Are there personal stories or testimonies that would resonate with the audience?

Crafting a compelling narrative is key to making your press release stand out. For more insights, refer to newsroom pitch tips.

Pitching Your Story Effectively

Once your press kit is ready, it’s time to pitch your story to the media in a way that grabs attention and gets results.

Timelines for Local Media Outreach Houston

Timing is everything. Knowing when to pitch can significantly impact your chances of getting coverage.

  • Plan Ahead: For events, start reaching out at least three weeks in advance. This gives reporters time to consider your story and plan coverage.

  • Follow Up: After your initial outreach, follow up a week later with additional details or updates.

Maintaining a timeline ensures your story doesn’t get lost in a reporter’s inbox. For more on planning your outreach schedule, check strategies to increase community engagement through local TV.

Leveraging Bilingual Media Houston

In a city as diverse as Houston, bilingual media can vastly broaden your reach. ¡Que Onda Magazine! and Telemundo Houston are excellent platforms for engaging both English and Spanish speakers.

  • Include Bilingual Content: If possible, offer your press materials in both languages. This shows respect for the audience’s linguistic diversity and can increase engagement.

  • Engage with Cultural Stories: Highlighting cultural events or stories can resonate deeply with Hispanic audiences and lead to higher media interest.

By strategically leveraging bilingual media, your organization can connect with a wider audience, making your message more inclusive and far-reaching. For more ideas, consider these earned media strategies.

By following these steps and tapping into the power of local and bilingual media, your community organization can effectively amplify its voice across Houston. Don’t wait—start planning your media strategy today to make the most out of your outreach efforts.

Federal Immigration Enforcement Scaled Back in Minnesota

Edward Saenz
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Federal Immigration Enforcement Scaled Back in Minnesota

The Trump administration is withdrawing about 700 federal immigration officers from Minnesota after state and local officials agreed to cooperate with federal authorities, border czar Tom Homan said Wednesday. Roughly 2,000 officers will remain in the state.

Cooperation Linked to Drawdown

Homan said increased collaboration—such as turning over arrested immigrants—has reduced the need for a larger federal presence, though he did not name specific jurisdictions.

No End Date Set

He declined to give a timeline for when the operation might fully end, citing ongoing protests in the Twin Cities following the killing of protester Alex Pretti. Homan said a broader pullout would depend on an end to interference with federal agents.

Operation Defended

Despite criticism, Homan called the enforcement effort effective for public safety, acknowledging it was not a perfect operation but saying federal agencies worked under a unified command.

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

Lorde Donates $204K in Merch Sales to Immigrant Rights Groups

Indira Zaldivar
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Lorde Donates $204K in Merch Sales to Immigrant Rights Groups

Lorde has revealed she donated $204,000 from merchandise sales at her Minneapolis shows to immigrant advocacy organizations, including the Minnesota Immigration Rights Action Committee and the Immigrant Defense Network. The singer shared the news on Instagram alongside a photo of the words “ICE out” written on her hand.

Story upload by international artist Lorde on Instagram.

Donation Made During Minneapolis Tour Stops

The contribution came from two sold-out performances on October 11–12 while Lorde was on her Ultrasound World Tour. The artist said the donation reflected her support for immigrant communities and opposition to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Artists Amplify Anti-ICE Messages

Lorde joins a growing number of musicians using their platforms to speak out against ICE. At the recent Grammy Awards, artists including Justin Bieber, Billie Eilish, and Kehlani wore “ICE out” pins on the red carpet, while several winners addressed the issue during their acceptance speeches.

Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish Speak Out at the Grammys

After winning Best Música Urbana Album, Bad Bunny used his speech to declare “ICE out,” emphasizing unity and compassion over hate. “The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love,” he said, urging audiences to choose empathy.

Billie Eilish echoed similar sentiments while accepting Song of the Year, stating, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” and encouraging continued activism, protest, and speaking out.

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

After years of debate, Texas’ private school voucher application opens this week

ABC13 Houston
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After years of debate, Texas’ private school voucher application opens this week

By Nick Natario, ABC13 Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — As the state’s private school voucher program goes live, education experts said it’s not just parents with questions about what comes next.

On Wednesday, Texas’ private school voucher application process goes live, and Erin Baumgartner, Director of the Houston Education Research Consortium at Rice University, said public school districts will be watching to see how many families apply.

“This is something districts have been thinking about even before vouchers came along, is how can they make sure families know about all of the amazing programs they offer and how their needs can get met,” Baumgartner explained.

Baumgartner said the voucher program may not have a significant impact because many families who apply starting Wednesday may already be familiar with private schools. In other state voucher programs, more than 90 percent of participants were already enrolled in private schools.

It’s possible, she says, Texas is different. Texas is allocating $1 billion to benefit about 100,000 students, more than any other state.

“The budget is high for Texas because we’re a big state, but in other states where they’ve budgeted, it’s ended up far exceeding the budget than what the cost of the program was once they opened it up to families,” Baumgartner said.

“I think it’s about the needs of your family and your kids,” Baumgartner explained. “Knowing that if you have a student with special needs, there are certain private schools that may not be able to meet those needs, where we know public schools have to meet the needs for those students.”

How to apply

The process starts on Wednesday at 9 a.m. Officials said there’s no need to rush to submit an application, as families have until March 17th to apply.

You can fill out an application on your computer or phone on the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website. You have to provide documentation, including tax returns and citizenship information.

Parents don’t need to say which private school their child is attending, yet.

One thing to keep in mind is that if too many families apply, there will be a lottery. If that happens, the bill lays out what would happen.

There would be priority for children with disabilities, followed by income. Experts said that if a lottery is used, transparency will be key to ensuring those requirements are followed when allocating taxpayer funds.

For updates on this story, follow Nick Natario on Facebook, X and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Storms have moved out, chilly sunshine returns Wednesday

ABC13 Houston
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Storms have moved out, chilly sunshine returns Wednesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Now that a cold front has pushed into the Gulf, we’ll get a chilly, breezy, and sunny Wednesday.

Temperatures Wednesday morning will drop into the mid 40s, and the 20 mph north wind will make it feel like its in the 30s. Sunshine will allow temperatures to rebound into the mid 60s, but it will be cool and breezy throughout the day.

How long does the cooler air stick around?

We’ll get to enjoy some comfortable winter temps for the rest of the week! Thursday morning will be our coldest with lows in the mid-to-upper 30s, but we should stay above freezing.

How is the weekend shaping up?

The weekend will be the complete opposite of what we just experienced! After two weekends in a row with freezing temperatures and arctic air, this Saturday and Sunday will feature sunshine with lows in the 40s and highs in the 70s.

Could we get more severe weather any time soon?

We are eyeing two Pacific storm systems next week that could bring some rough storms to Texas, one around Tuesday, one around Friday. It’s too soon to get more specific than that, but we’ll work hard to sort it all out while you enjoy our delightful weather for the rest of the week!

Any more cold blasts possible in February?

Sure, but if we do get blasted with anymore arctic air, it likely wouldn’t be until the second half of February. Until then, we will likely remain free from any freezing weather.

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 Businesses Can Authentically Reach Houston’s Hispanic Community—What Works Now

Que Onda Editorial
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How Businesses Can Authentically Reach Houston’s Hispanic Community—What Works Now

How Businesses Can Authentically Reach Houston’s Hispanic Community—What Works Now

Most businesses think reaching Houston’s Hispanic community means just translating ads to Spanish. That approach misses the mark—and the market. To genuinely connect, you need a clear Hispanic marketing Houston strategy that respects culture, language, and local ties. This guide breaks down what works now, helping you build authentic Hispanic advertising that truly speaks to your audience. Learn more about effective strategies here.

Engaging Houston’s Hispanic Audience

To truly engage Houston’s vibrant Hispanic community, understanding cultural nuances is key. This section explores how businesses can foster genuine connections.

Understanding Local Cultural Nuances

Getting culture right can be the difference between connecting or being ignored. Houston’s Hispanic community is diverse, with rich traditions from various Latin American countries. Embrace these differences. For instance, incorporating local holidays like Día de los Muertos into your campaigns can show respect and understanding. Remember, it’s not just about language but about cultural resonance.

Think about attending local cultural festivals. Events like these offer a window into what’s important to the community. You could even sponsor a booth to interact with attendees firsthand. This direct engagement demonstrates commitment beyond the surface level. To effectively reach Hispanic consumers, you must show that your brand is part of the community, not just an outsider looking in.

Building Trust Through Bilingual Media

Trust is built through communication. Bilingual media offers a bridge, ensuring your message reaches both English and Spanish speakers. It’s about accessibility. Bilingual content strategy can help you connect better. Have you considered publishing content in both languages on your social media platforms?

Using trusted local platforms like Que Onda Magazine for advertising can enhance your credibility. This publication is well-respected and widely read in the community. It offers a powerful channel for authentic Hispanic advertising. By partnering with bilingual media, you’re not just reaching more people, you’re showing respect for both languages, which can build deeper trust.

Effective Hispanic Marketing Strategies

Once you’ve engaged culturally, it’s time to implement marketing strategies that respect these insights. Let’s explore how to create campaigns that resonate.

Crafting Culturally Relevant Campaigns

Creating campaigns that resonate requires attention to detail. Begin by identifying cultural symbols and narratives that align with your brand. For example, if you’re promoting a food product, consider highlighting traditional recipes that incorporate your product. This not only showcases your product but also respects culinary traditions.

Data can guide you. According to a study by Magid, culturally relevant advertising can boost brand relevance by 22%. Use these insights to tailor your messaging. Remember, your goal is to connect, not just sell.

Successful campaigns often feature community members. This approach provides authenticity, as it represents real stories. Consider collaborating with local influencers who are trusted voices within the community. They can offer genuine endorsements that resonate more deeply than traditional ads.

Local Hispanic News Media Partnerships

Partnerships with local media can amplify your reach. Collaborating with Hispanic news outlets like Que Onda Magazine provides a direct line to the community. This publication covers everything from local news to cultural events, making it a trusted source for the community.

By placing your ads in local Hispanic news media, you tap into this established trust. It positions your brand as one that values community ties. Plus, these partnerships offer targeted reach, ensuring your message lands where it matters most.

Consider how these partnerships can be more than just ads. Collaborate on content that educates or entertains. Whether it’s a sponsored article or a community spotlight, engaging content can enhance your brand’s visibility and credibility.

Community-Centric Advertising Approaches

To deepen connections, focus on community-centric advertising. These approaches ensure your brand remains relevant and respected.

Sponsoring Local Events and Causes

Sponsoring local events is a powerful way to show support for the community. Think about sponsoring a local soccer tournament or a cultural festival. These events draw large crowds and offer excellent visibility. Plus, they provide opportunities for face-to-face interaction, which can be invaluable.

Community sponsorship Houston efforts show that your brand is invested in more than just sales. They demonstrate a commitment to the community’s success. This kind of involvement can foster goodwill and long-term loyalty. Don’t forget, the longer you wait to get involved, the more opportunities you might miss.

Collaborating with Cultural Creators

Partnering with cultural creators allows for authentic storytelling. These creators have a deep understanding of the community’s values and can craft content that resonates. Whether it’s through video content or social media collaborations, their unique perspective can enhance your brand’s message.

Consider engaging with local artists or musicians. They can bring fresh, creative angles to your campaigns, making them more engaging. For example, a local artist could design a campaign logo that incorporates cultural elements. This not only adds authenticity but also supports local talent.

In conclusion, to authentically connect with Houston’s Hispanic community, businesses must embrace cultural nuances, engage with bilingual media, and develop community-focused strategies. By doing so, you can create lasting relationships that benefit both your brand and the community.

Bruce Springsteen’s ICE Protest Song Tops U.S. Sales Charts

Indira Zaldivar
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Bruce Springsteen’s ICE Protest Song Tops U.S. Sales Charts

Bruce Springsteen’s new protest song criticizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has surged to the top of U.S. music sales charts.

“Streets of Minneapolis” was the highest-selling digital song in the country last week, according to Billboard, selling about 16,000 downloads. The track reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart despite being available for only two days during the tracking period.

Springsteen said he wrote the song in response to what he called “state terror” in Minneapolis, following two fatal shootings involving federal immigration authorities. In January, Renee Good, 37, was shot and killed by a federal immigration officer during a Department of Homeland Security crackdown. Weeks later, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was killed by a Customs and Border Protection agent.

The 76-year-old artist dedicated the song to Minneapolis residents, immigrant communities, and the families of Pretti and Good. Known as a frequent critic of President Donald Trump, Springsteen directly targets Trump and the Department of Homeland Security in the lyrics.

Homeland Security officials pushed back, with an agency spokesperson defending ICE agents and criticizing Springsteen for focusing on their actions rather than crimes committed by undocumented immigrants.

Despite the backlash, the song’s rapid climb to No. 1 underscores strong public interest — and controversy — surrounding Springsteen’s latest political statement.

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

Family Says ICE Detention Kept Father From Son’s Funeral

Indira Zaldivar
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Family Says ICE Detention Kept Father From Son’s Funeral

A Texas family says Immigration and Customs Enforcement prevented a detained father from attending the funeral of his disabled U.S. citizen son, who died after losing his primary caregiver.

Son Died After Losing Caregiver

Wael Tarabishi, 30, of Arlington, Texas, died Jan. 23 after a lifelong battle with advanced Pompe disease. His father, Maher Tarabishi, was his full-time caregiver and was often described by family as his “arms, legs, and lungs.”

Maher was detained by ICE in October 2025 during a routine annual check-in required under a supervision order that had allowed him to remain in the U.S. legally to care for his son.

Father Denied Permission to Attend Funeral

Following Wael’s death, family members and advocates requested that ICE allow Maher, who was being held at a detention facility in Anson, Texas, to attend his son’s funeral. ICE denied the request, leaving the family to bury Wael without his father present.

Conflicting Claims From ICE and Family

ICE said Maher Tarabishi is a member of an organization the U.S. considers a terrorist group and described him as a “criminal alien.” The family and Maher’s attorney strongly deny those claims, saying his legal team previously challenged them and that no evidence supports the allegations.

Family Speaks Out

Relatives say Wael’s final wish was to see his father one last time. They accuse ICE of causing irreversible harm by separating them during Wael’s final months and say they will continue advocating for Maher’s release.

Supporters have rallied online, arguing the case reflects broader concerns about immigration enforcement and humanitarian exceptions involving families and caregivers.

For more updates on Trump’s immigration enforcement, which has led to numerous deaths, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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