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Melinda French Gates Responds to Bill Gates’ Name Appearing in Epstein Files

Que Onda Editorial
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Melinda French Gates Responds to Bill Gates’ Name Appearing in Epstein Files

Melinda French Gates is speaking publicly after newly released Justice Department records connected to Jeffrey Epstein included mentions of her ex-husband, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

“He Has to Answer,” She Says

In an interview on NPR’s Wild Card podcast, Melinda French Gates said she felt “unbelievable sadness” seeing Bill Gates’ name referenced in the Epstein files. She emphasized that any remaining questions are for those named to address themselves.

“Whatever questions remain there … for even my ex-husband, they need to answer to those things, not me,” she said, adding that she is relieved to be removed from what she described as “all the muck.”

Focus on Survivors

French Gates stressed the harm done to Epstein’s victims, calling their treatment “beyond heartbreaking.” She said the revelations were especially painful as a mother, recalling both her own youth and that of her daughters.

“No girl should ever be put in the situation that they were put in by Epstein,” she said.

Bill Gates Denies Allegations

Bill Gates’ name appears among several prominent figures mentioned in the Epstein records. Some documents include emails written by Epstein suggesting Gates was involved in extramarital affairs and illicit activity.

A spokesperson for Gates denied the claims, calling them “absolutely absurd and completely false,” and said the emails reflect Epstein’s frustration over not maintaining a relationship with Gates.

A Painful Chapter After Divorce

Melinda and Bill Gates divorced in 2021 after 27 years of marriage. She later acknowledged that Bill Gates had an affair with a Microsoft employee, which he has publicly admitted, saying he caused “a lot of pain” to his family.

French Gates said the Epstein disclosures reopen painful memories from that period but emphasized that she has moved on.

“I’m in a really unexpected, beautiful place in my life,” she said, adding that she hopes justice is ultimately served for Epstein’s victims.

Broader Context of the Epstein Files

The Epstein files also mention other high-profile men, including President Donald Trump, Elon Musk, former President Bill Clinton and former Prince Andrew. None have been criminally charged in connection with Epstein. Ghislaine Maxwell remains the only person convicted for crimes tied to his sex trafficking operation.

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

Space Center Houston to Host Artemis II Launch Watch Party on March 6

Edward Saenz
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Space Center Houston to Host Artemis II Launch Watch Party on March 6

Space Center Houston has announced a new date for its Artemis II Launch Watch Party following NASA’s decision to delay the mission after findings during a recent wet dress rehearsal.

New Launch Window Identified

NASA has identified March 6–9 or March 11 as the next earliest possible launch window for Artemis II, with the schedule potentially extending into April. In response, Space Center Houston will host the public launch watch party on March 6 at the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center.

Mission Overview

The Artemis II mission is designed to send four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft on a 10-day journey around the Moon. The crewed lunar flyby will test critical spacecraft systems and operational capabilities needed for future deep-space missions, marking a key step toward NASA’s long-term lunar exploration goals.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Artemis II Launch Watch Party are available for purchase through Space Center Houston. Tickets purchased for the previously scheduled Feb. 8 event will automatically roll over to the next confirmed launch date. Additional details for ticket holders are available on the same ticketing page.

TICKETS: Available now

For the latest NASA mission updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Meet Disney’s New Leadership: CEO Josh D’Amaro and Creative Chief Dana Walden

Michael Esparza
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Meet Disney’s New Leadership: CEO Josh D’Amaro and Creative Chief Dana Walden

Disney is entering a major new chapter as long‑time chief executive Bob Iger prepares to hand the reins to Josh D’Amaro in March 2026, while Dana Walden steps into an expanded creative leadership role that will redefine the company’s direction across streaming, film, television, and theme parks.

From Bob Iger to Josh D’Amaro

Bob Iger, who returned as CEO in 2022 after the ouster of Bob Chapek, has spent the last several years restructuring Disney and preparing a successor while his contract ran through the end of 2026. In early 2026, Disney’s board moved up that timetable, deciding to name a new chief executive and accelerate the transition away from Iger’s day‑to‑day leadership.

The board has now unanimously elected Josh D’Amaro, currently Chairman of Disney Experiences, to become Chief Executive Officer effective at the company’s annual meeting on March 18, 2026. Iger will step into a Senior Advisor role to the board through December 31, 2026, giving Disney a defined hand‑off period where the outgoing and incoming chiefs work in parallel.

Who is Josh D’Amaro?

Josh D’Amaro is best known inside Disney for running its global “Experiences” segment, which includes theme parks, resorts, cruise lines, and consumer products. Under his leadership, the parks and experiences business has been central to Disney’s financial recovery, with major investments in new attractions, technology‑driven guest experiences, and integrated storytelling across physical and digital platforms.

As CEO, D’Amaro is expected to bring that guest‑focused, operations‑heavy mindset to the entire company, balancing the demands of streaming, theatrical releases, ESPN, and international growth. The board highlighted his deep company experience, close collaboration with Iger, and strong relationships across Disney’s creative and business units as key reasons for his selection.

Dana Walden’s Rise in Creative Power

Alongside D’Amaro’s promotion, Disney is elevating Dana Walden—currently Co‑Chair of Disney Entertainment—to the newly defined role of President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company. Walden already oversees Disney’s global entertainment media, news, and content businesses, including its streaming platforms, scripted and unscripted television, and a major share of film production.

As President and CCO, Walden will effectively become the top creative architect of Disney’s storytelling strategy, from franchise management to green‑lighting new series and films across Disney+, Hulu, and traditional networks. Iger and the board have emphasized that placing a seasoned creative executive in this role is meant to keep “creativity at the heart” of Disney’s identity even as it pursues financial discipline and technological innovation.

The New Inner Circle

D’Amaro will be supported by a senior leadership group that has already been working closely together during the succession process. Key figures expected to continue in influential roles include Alan Bergman, Co‑Chairman of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, both of whom remain central to strategy in film, television, and sports.

The board itself has also been refreshed to guide this transition, with James Gorman serving as chairman and leading the Succession Planning Committee that evaluated D’Amaro and Walden. That committee put both executives through an extended preparation program, including direct mentoring from Iger, outside coaching, and repeated sessions with the full board to test their strategic vision.

What This Means for Disney’s Future

Disney’s new leadership structure splits power between an operator CEO and a creative chief, signaling a strategy that tries to keep the company nimble while protecting its core identity as a storytelling powerhouse. D’Amaro’s background suggests a focus on integrated experiences—linking parks, consumer products, and digital content—while Walden’s role is designed to stabilize and grow the hit‑making engine across Disney’s brands and streaming services.

With Iger still on hand as an advisor through the end of 2026, Disney aims for a smoother succession than the turbulent Chapek era, giving investors, employees, and creative partners a clearer view of who is in charge and how decisions will be made. If D’Amaro and Walden can maintain creative momentum while steering through streaming economics, cord‑cutting, and global competition, this leadership reset could define Disney’s trajectory for the next decade.

Local News, Lasting Roots: How Houston Coverage Fuels Cultural Pride and Identity

Michael Esparza
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Local News, Lasting Roots: How Houston Coverage Fuels Cultural Pride and Identity

Local News, Lasting Roots: How Houston Coverage Fuels Cultural Pride and Identity

Local news Houston often shapes how you see your neighborhood and culture. When stories reflect the Houston Hispanic community’s real voices and traditions, they build a deeper sense of pride and belonging. Que Onda Magazine plays a key role in keeping Houston Latino news alive and relevant, making sure your stories get heard and your events gain attention. Stick around to see how local coverage strengthens Houston culture—and how you can join this vibrant conversation. Learn more about the pride and inclusivity efforts in Houston.

Houston News and Cultural Identity

Local news in Houston is more than just headlines; it’s a tapestry that weaves the community together. By highlighting the stories of the Houston Hispanic community, local media fosters a sense of unity and pride. Let’s explore how these connections are strengthened and celebrated.

Strengthening Community Bonds

When you see your stories in local news, it’s like seeing a piece of yourself in the broader community. This shared visibility helps build strong community ties. For instance, when neighbors gather to celebrate cultural festivals, the coverage in local media reinforces these connections. It’s not just about being informed; it’s about feeling included in a larger narrative.

Your participation in community events is vital. It brings people together and strengthens bonds. When your stories are shared, it not only informs but also brings a sense of belonging. Most people think news is just information, but it’s actually a bridge for community bonding. As you engage with local stories, you help reinforce neighborhood ties and cultural pride.

Celebrating Latino Culture

Houston’s rich Latino culture is a treasure trove of stories. From lively festivals to family traditions, every event adds color to the cultural landscape. Celebrating these events through local news ensures that cultural heritage is preserved and appreciated. For example, the annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations spotlight the vibrant traditions that are central to the community’s identity.

These celebrations are not just events; they are expressions of cultural pride. When covered in the media, they reach a broader audience, inviting everyone to appreciate and participate. Sharing these stories encourages cross-cultural understanding and respect. So, next time you see a cultural story, remember it’s not just news—it’s a celebration of identity and heritage.

Role of Que Onda Magazine

Que Onda Magazine plays a pivotal role in reflecting and shaping the Hispanic community’s voice in Houston. By focusing on stories that matter, the magazine ensures that the Hispanic community’s contributions are recognized and valued.

Amplifying Hispanic Voices

Que Onda Magazine is committed to amplifying the voices of the Hispanic community. Through bilingual news and cultural features, it ensures that stories are accessible to a wider audience. By highlighting personal stories, the magazine gives a platform to those who might otherwise be unheard. This is not just about sharing stories; it’s about empowering individuals and communities.

The power of storytelling lies in its ability to make connections. When you read about someone’s journey, you find pieces of your own story. Que Onda Magazine’s dedication to authentic storytelling makes it a cornerstone of media representation in Houston. This isn’t just about being visible; it’s about being heard and understood.

Showcasing Houston Events

Local events are the heartbeat of any community, and Que Onda Magazine is at the forefront of showcasing these vibrant happenings. From community parades to local fairs, the magazine provides comprehensive coverage that keeps you informed and engaged. Discover how community hubs like the Montrose Center support local events.

By attending and reporting on these events, Que Onda Magazine brings them to life for those who couldn’t be there. This coverage is essential for fostering a sense of inclusion and celebration. Events covered range from cultural festivals to educational workshops, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Houston culture.

Fostering Community Engagement

Community engagement is the cornerstone of a vibrant neighborhood. By partnering with local advertisers and encouraging story contributions, Que Onda Magazine plays a crucial role in fostering this engagement.

Partnering with Local Advertisers

Advertisers looking to connect with the Hispanic market find a trusted partner in Que Onda Magazine. By aligning with local businesses, the magazine helps create authentic connections between advertisers and the community. This partnership ensures that advertising is not just about selling but also about sharing cultural values.

These partnerships are mutually beneficial. Advertisers gain access to a dedicated audience, while the community receives information about products and services that cater to their needs. By focusing on local businesses, Que Onda Magazine supports the local economy and strengthens community ties.

Encouraging Story Contributions

Your stories matter, and Que Onda Magazine encourages community members to contribute their narratives. By sharing your experiences, you help enrich the community’s collective story. This invitation to contribute is more than an opportunity; it’s a call to action.

When you share your story, you become part of a larger conversation. This engagement fosters a deeper connection to your cultural roots and encourages others to do the same. The magazine’s commitment to community storytelling ensures that every voice is valued and heard.

Through local news and cultural coverage, Houston’s Hispanic community continues to thrive. By engaging with Que Onda Magazine, you become an active participant in shaping and sharing the stories that matter most.

Christian Menefee Sworn In as Representative for Texas’ 18th Congressional District

Indira Zaldivar
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Christian Menefee Sworn In as Representative for Texas’ 18th Congressional District

Texas’ 18th Congressional District has representation in Washington again after Christian Menefee was sworn into Congress on Monday, ending a months-long vacancy for the Houston-area district.

More Than 330 Days Without a Voice

In remarks following the swearing-in, Menefee emphasized that the district went more than 330 days without representation in Congress. He noted that residents were left without a vote on major national issues during that time, including debates tied to programs such as SNAP and Medicaid.

Menefee’s Pledge to the District

Menefee said he intends to approach the role with “the seriousness that it deserves,” vowing to advocate for and protect the people of the 18th District. He framed his new position as both a responsibility and a commitment to restoring the district’s voice on Capitol Hill.

Balancing Governance and Campaigning

Political analysts say Menefee enters office while already preparing for another election. He is expected to campaign ahead of a potential March 3 primary and a May 26 runoff, even as he begins navigating the demands of governing in Washington.

Early Votes Could Come Quickly

According to Rice University political scientist Mark Jones, Menefee’s first major vote could arrive soon, possibly tied to an appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security. The exact timing remains uncertain, as House schedules and legislative priorities can shift.

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet known when Menefee will cast his first vote, which committees he will be assigned to, or how quickly he may gain influence in Congress. The scope of any backlog of constituent requests awaiting attention has also not been detailed.

For more updates on Congress, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Student hospitalized after high school stabbing in Spring, according to Conroe ISD

ABC13 Houston
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Student hospitalized after high school stabbing in Spring, according to Conroe ISD

By Daniela Hurtado, ABC13 Houston

SPRING, Texas (KTRK) — A student was rushed to the hospital on Monday after being stabbed at Grand Oaks High School, school district officials said.

According to Conroe ISD, a student suffered three shallow stab wounds after an altercation with another student occurred at 9 a.m. on campus at Grand Oaks High School, which is located at 3800 Riley Fuzzel Road in Spring.

EMS was immediately called to the scene, and the student was taken to the hospital for their injuries, district officials said.

Officials said that parents of both involved students were notified.

The Conroe ISD Police Department, along with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, responded quickly to the incident and were able to apprehend the suspect, who was a juvenile, officials said.

Conroe ISD said there is no ongoing threat to students or staff. The incident is currently under investigation, district officials said, adding that “appropriate disciplinary and legal actions will be pursued in accordance with district policy and the law.”

The district said that additional Conroe ISD police officers will be on campus for the rest of this week following the incident.

The identities of the student and the suspect, along with information on what led to the stabbing, were not immediately released.

For updates on this story, follow Daniela Hurtado on Facebook, X and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Trump Seeks $1 Billion in Damages From Harvard

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Seeks $1 Billion in Damages From Harvard

Donald Trump announced he is seeking $1 billion in damages from Harvard University, escalating his administration’s long-running dispute with the Ivy League institution. The announcement follows reports that the White House retreated from an earlier demand that Harvard pay $200 million during negotiations over frozen federal funding.

Dispute Fueled by Media Claims and Campus Protests

Trump referenced a New York Times report in a Truth Social post, accusing Harvard of spreading “nonsense” to the paper. Administration officials have claimed the university failed to adequately address antisemitism during pro-Palestinian campus protests—an allegation Harvard has firmly denied.

Harvard at the Center of White House Culture War

Harvard has been a frequent target in the administration’s campaign against what it labels “woke” or “radical left” ideologies in higher education. Last April, the administration revoked roughly $2 billion in research grants and froze additional federal funding to the university.

Court Ruling Reverses Funding Cuts

Harvard sued, arguing that the government cannot dictate academic content, admissions, hiring, or research priorities at a private university. A federal judge later overturned the funding cuts, ruling they violated Harvard’s free speech rights. The White House vowed to challenge the decision and warned Harvard could remain ineligible for future grants.

Negotiations Collapse, Legal Threats Continue

Prior to Monday’s announcement, the administration had been in talks with Harvard to potentially restore funding. Those discussions appear to have collapsed. Trump accused the university of “serious and heinous illegalities,” without specifying alleged violations, and reiterated past threats to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status and seize patents tied to federally funded research.

Other Ivy League Paths Diverge

Unlike Harvard, Columbia, Penn, and Brown reached agreements with the administration to protect at-risk funding rather than pursue litigation—highlighting a sharp divide in how elite universities have responded to the White House’s pressure campaign.

For the latest news on the Trump administration, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

A warm and wet day ahead as a cold front moves through Tuesday evening

ABC13 Houston
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A warm and wet day ahead as a cold front moves through Tuesday evening

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Milder weather is on the way for most of this week, but we do have one more mid-week cool down in the forecast.

A decent southerly wind ahead of our next cold front will hold temperatures Tuesday morning in the mid and upper 50s. Scattered showers will be possible during the morning commute as moisture levels increase.

How long does the milder air stick around?

We’ll have highs in the 70s most days this week! And when our next cold front arrives late Tuesday, no arctic air will follow it, keeping our temperatures in a more “seasonal” range for Wednesday and Thursday with lows near 40 and highs in the 60s.

When should we expect rain with Tuesday’s cold front, and how much could fall?

Scattered showers are possible at any time during the day, but the main line of rain associated with the front will impact Houston during the evening. Some of the heavy showers could drop up to an inch of rain, but most neighborhoods will pick up less than half an inch. No severe weather is expected, but there could be some isolated rumbles of thunder and briefly heavy rainfall as the front pushes in.

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, Saturday and Sunday will feature sunshine with lows in the 40s and highs in the 70s.

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!

Agents Identified in Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti

Edward Saenz
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Agents Identified in Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti

Two federal immigration agents involved in the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, have been identified as longtime Customs and Border Protection officers, according to a ProPublica report.

Who the Agents Are

Government records name Border Patrol agent Jesus Ochoa, 43, and CBP officer Raymundo Gutierrez, 35, as the officers who fired on Pretti during a protest in Minneapolis on Jan. 24. Both agents are based in Texas and were deployed to Minnesota as part of “Operation Metro Surge,” a large-scale federal enforcement effort tied to the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

Customs and Border Protection has not publicly released their names and confirmed both agents were placed on administrative leave following the shooting.

Federal Response and Pushback

The Department of Homeland Security said it will not confirm or deny identities, citing safety concerns and warning that publicizing officers’ names could put them and their families at risk. The incident remains under investigation.

Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, have criticized the lack of transparency, arguing federal agents involved in fatal encounters with civilians should be identifiable and held to clear rules of engagement.

Details From the Preliminary Review

A preliminary federal review sent to Congress outlines a confrontation that escalated after officers ordered protesters out of the roadway. The report says Pretti was pepper-sprayed during a struggle and shot moments after an agent shouted that he had a gun. The review does not state that Pretti brandished a weapon, contradicting earlier claims from DHS officials.

Pretti was taken to the hospital and pronounced dead roughly 30 minutes later.

Protests and Ongoing Investigation

Pretti’s killing, along with the recent death of another Minneapolis resident during a separate federal encounter, has sparked mass protests locally and nationwide. Following public pressure, the Justice Department confirmed its civil division, led by the FBI, has opened an investigation into Pretti’s death.

For more on immigration enforcement, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Administration Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Immigrant Visa Freeze

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Administration Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Immigrant Visa Freeze

Immigrant rights groups, legal advocates and U.S. citizens have filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s decision to pause immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries worldwide.

The lawsuit, filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, names Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the U.S. Department of State as defendants.

Challenge to State Department Policy

Plaintiffs argue the policy unlawfully rewrites U.S. immigration law and amounts to a discriminatory, nationality-based ban. They say it replaces the individualized, case-by-case visa adjudication required under federal law with a sweeping categorical restriction.

The State Department policy took effect Jan. 21 and indefinitely pauses immigrant visa issuance—though not nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist visas—for applicants from the listed countries.

Administration’s Justification

The Trump administration has said the pause is intended to prevent applicants likely to become “public charges,” or dependent on government assistance, while agencies reassess screening and vetting procedures.

The lawsuit counters that claim, calling it unsupported and false, and argues the policy relies on a discredited narrative that immigrants from the affected countries migrate to improperly rely on public benefits.

Scope and Impact of the Ban

According to the complaint, the freeze affects an estimated 40% to 45% of immigrant visa applicants worldwide. It applies even to individuals whose visas were already approved or authorized for printing and includes no end date, review criteria or exemption process.

Countries impacted span Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, South Asia and parts of the Balkans.

Families Caught in Limbo

Plaintiffs include nonprofit organizations and U.S. citizens petitioning for family members. One case involves a New York grandmother whose approved petitions for her children and grandchildren from Ghana were halted. Another involves a Long Island man whose wife and infant are stranded in Guatemala after a scheduled visa interview.

Expanded ‘Public Charge’ Definition Challenged

The lawsuit also challenges a related State Department directive expanding the definition of “public charge” to include noncash benefits, private charity use and speculative future factors such as health or English proficiency.

Plaintiffs argue the expansion contradicts decades of immigration law and congressional intent.

What the Plaintiffs Are Seeking

The groups are asking the court to declare the policies unlawful, block their enforcement nationwide and restore individualized immigrant visa processing.

Democracy Forward, one of the organizations bringing the case, said the administration is using bureaucracy to mask a discriminatory policy that separates families and excludes workers the U.S. economy relies on.

Administration Response

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott defended the policy, stating that visas are a privilege, not a right, and that applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. He said the pause is necessary to protect public benefits and strengthen screening procedures, emphasizing that the administration prioritizes American citizens first.

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

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