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Cardi B Hosts Houston Walmart Meet-and-Greet

Indira Zaldivar
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Cardi B Hosts Houston Walmart Meet-and-Greet

Rap superstar Cardi B is in Houston today for a special meet-and-greet at the Walmart Supercenter in Cypress, located at 8927 Fry Rd., from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event promotes her upcoming sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, releasing Friday, September 26.

Fans can pose for photos with Cardi B and receive pre-signed copies of her new album. Photo opportunities require signing up on her website and purchasing a pre-signed album, which went on sale at Walmart starting 1 p.m. Today, photo spots are sold out, but the event remains open on a first-come, first-served basis. Only the event photographer is allowed to take pictures during the meet-and-greet.

Cardi B’s Rise to Fame

Cardi B first gained attention on social media and as a cast member of Love & Hip Hop: New York. She skyrocketed to fame with her 2017 single Bodak Yellow, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and went nine-times platinum. Her debut album, Invasion of Privacy (2018), won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, and her single I Like It with Bad Bunny and J Balvin achieved diamond certification.

Am I the Drama? and Future Plans

Cardi B’s new album, Am I the Drama?, includes 23 tracks with collaborations from major artists such as Janet Jackson, Selena Gomez, Megan Thee Stallion, Lizzo, and Summer Walker.

She will return to Houston in March 2026 for the Little Miss Drama tour, performing at the Toyota Center on March 4.

For more celebrity headlines, tune in to Que Onda Magazine daily.

Trump Criticizes UN While Promoting His Own Agenda

Que Onda Editorial
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Trump Criticizes UN While Promoting His Own Agenda

President Donald Trump delivered a combative address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, sharply criticizing the international body while highlighting his administration’s policies.

Attacking the UN

Trump accused the UN of failing to live up to its potential, calling its statements “empty words” and claiming the organization often creates problems rather than solving them. He positioned himself as a peacemaker, insisting that millions of lives had been saved due to his policies, and suggested he deserved a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts.

Controversial Stances on Global Issues

In his hourlong speech, Trump took aim at world leaders on multiple fronts: migration, climate change, and conflict resolution. He called climate change “the greatest con job ever” and encouraged countries to reject green policies, while condemning uncontrolled migration as a crisis.

Russia, Ukraine, and Economic Threats

Trump threatened Russia with “powerful tariffs” if Moscow did not pursue peace but emphasized that other nations, particularly Europe, must reduce Russian oil imports. He also criticized China and India for buying Russian energy, suggesting they were prolonging the war in Ukraine.

Middle East and Hostage Crisis

On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Trump demanded that Hamas release hostages immediately and expressed opposition to international recognition of Palestinian statehood, framing it as a reward for terrorism.

Military Action and Drug Trafficking

Trump highlighted recent U.S. military strikes against narcoterrorists in Venezuela, declaring that traffickers and terrorists would be “blown out of existence,” drawing attention to his administration’s aggressive and controversial approach to foreign threats.

Critics Respond

Observers noted that Trump’s UN speech mirrored his administration’s tendency to prioritize personal political narratives over multilateral diplomacy. Experts argue that his rhetoric undermines international cooperation, exaggerates U.S. achievements, and oversimplifies complex global challenges such as migration, climate change, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

For more on the UN assembly, tune in to Que Onda Magazine.

What to Know About UN General Assembly 2025

Edward Saenz
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What to Know About UN General Assembly 2025

Every September, world leaders gather at the UN headquarters in New York to debate and pass resolutions on major global issues. The 80th session of the General Assembly began on Sept. 9, with the agenda adopted and committees organized in preparation for the high-level General Debate starting on Wednesday.

High-Level Debate

The main debate takes place in morning and afternoon sessions, with more than 150 heads of state and government delivering speeches. Brazil traditionally opens the debate, followed by the United States. This year’s dynamic is notable due to the tense relationship between Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil and Donald Trump of the U.S.

Member Participation and Speaking Order

The speaking order for other member states is determined by level of representation, expressed preferences, and geographic balance. The Holy See, Palestine, and the European Union also participate according to their representation. Sessions are livestreamed and continue until all scheduled speakers have spoken, with no sessions on Sunday.

UN Headquarters

The UNGA is held at the UN headquarters along the East River in Manhattan. The complex includes the Secretariat, the General Assembly Hall, the Conference Building, the Dag Hammarskjöld Library, and outdoor spaces with member-state artwork. Since 1952, nearly all sessions have been held in New York, with exceptions like 1988 and the virtual session in 2020 due to COVID-19.

Key Agenda Items

This year’s theme is “Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” Key topics include Palestine, climate change, artificial intelligence, global food crises, and international conflicts. Several countries recently announced recognition of Palestine as a state, though efforts to grant full UN membership remain blocked by the United States.

UN Membership

The UN currently has 193 members and two observers: Palestine and the Holy See. To become a full member, a country must accept the UN Charter, be recommended by the Security Council, and approved by a two-thirds majority in the General Assembly. Full membership grants voting rights and full participation in UN programs and decisions.

U.S. Veto on Palestinian Membership

The United States has repeatedly blocked full membership for Palestine through vetoes in the Security Council and General Assembly. Since 2012, Palestine has been a non-member observer state, allowing it to participate in debates but not vote. The U.S. veto has consistently limited measures addressing military actions, settlements, and occupation of Palestinian territories.

Follow every beat on the UN General Assembly with Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Spreads Misinformation on Autism, Tylenol, and Vaccines, Ignoring Scientific Evidence

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Spreads Misinformation on Autism, Tylenol, and Vaccines, Ignoring Scientific Evidence

President Donald Trump, alongside Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., made a controversial announcement on autism at the White House on Monday. Trump urged pregnant women to avoid Tylenol and suggested vaccines could be linked to autism—claims widely disputed by experts.

Scientific Consensus on Tylenol and Autism

Research led by Ann Bauer at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell analyzed 46 studies on Tylenol, autism, and ADHD. Most found no causal link, while a few suggested Tylenol could occasionally exacerbate underlying risk factors. Experts caution that fevers during pregnancy, rather than acetaminophen itself, are more strongly associated with autism. Bauer recommends using Tylenol judiciously and consulting doctors, but warns against blanket bans.

Concerns Over Misinformation

Autism specialists, including Helen Tager-Flusberg of Boston University, described Trump’s statements as dangerous. CDC scientists confirmed they were not consulted for the announcement, breaking standard protocol. Critics say misleading messages about vaccines and medications could put children and pregnant women at risk.

Political Influence on Research

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has promoted debunked theories linking vaccines to autism. Experts like Peter Hotez and Brian Lee warn that his influence at HHS could distort public understanding and undermine credible research. Public Citizen and other organizations note that the Trump administration has cut research funding, reduced advisory committee meetings, and dismissed career scientists at the CDC and FDA.

Ongoing Research and Recommendations

The White House suggested updating Tylenol and leucovorin labeling to encourage careful use, but scientists emphasize systemic measures—like reducing environmental toxins and supporting families of disabled children—would have a far greater impact on autism outcomes than limiting medications or vaccines. Researchers stress that genetics remain the most significant risk factor for autism.

Scientific Integrity at Risk

Experts are concerned that politically motivated initiatives could cherry-pick studies, subvert grant processes, and erode public trust in health research. Bauer declined to participate in HHS-funded projects overseen by Kennedy, citing concerns over credibility and scientific independence.

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

Secret Service Stops Major Telecom Threat

Edward Saenz
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Secret Service Stops Major Telecom Threat

As world leaders gathered for the U.N. General Assembly, the U.S. Secret Service dismantled a hidden telecom network in New York capable of crippling cell towers and jamming 911 calls. Officials say the system, built from more than 300 SIM servers and over 100,000 SIM cards, could have paralyzed the city’s communications at a critical moment.

Discovery of a Massive Network

The servers, spread across multiple sites within 35 miles of the U.N., functioned like banks of mock cellphones able to flood networks with millions of calls and texts. Investigators uncovered the operation while probing threats against senior government officials.

Potential for Catastrophe

Special Agent Matt McCool warned the system could have triggered a citywide blackout, cutting off emergency services during a high-profile international event. “Use your imagination—it could be catastrophic,” he said.

Early Forensic Findings

Authorities have found no direct plot targeting the U.N. meeting, but they suspect nation-state actors used the network to send encrypted messages to organized crime groups and terrorist organizations. Analysts are now combing through data from the 100,000 active SIM cards.

Expensive, Well-Funded Operation

Agents discovered shelves of SIM cards, many already activated, with capacity to send up to 30 million text messages a minute. Investigators believe operators were preparing to double or triple the network’s reach.

Ongoing Concerns

Officials caution that similar hidden systems may exist elsewhere in the United States.

“It’d be unwise to think that there’s not other networks out there,” McCool said, underscoring the Secret Service’s focus on prevention and rapid response.

For more on this story, tune in to Que Onda Magazine.

U.S. Visa Hike Spurs Global Talent Shift

Indira Zaldivar
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U.S. Visa Hike Spurs Global Talent Shift

The Trump administration’s decision to raise the H-1B visa application fee to $100,000 has rattled U.S. employers and reopened the race for highly skilled foreign workers. Big Tech and financial firms that rely on the program now face steep costs, creating opportunities for other regions to attract top talent.

Europe’s Work-Life Edge

European leaders say quality of life could be their winning card. Former Deutsche Bank chair Paul Achleitner pointed to strong social systems, healthcare, and education as major draws.

“Maybe some of that talent actually find their way to us,” he said, noting that the U.S. no longer seems as accessible as before.

Balance Over Pay

A Randstad global survey found that work-life balance now ranks higher than salary for employees in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas—the first time in 22 years that lifestyle factors have surpassed pay in importance.

A “Unique Opportunity” for Startups

European venture investor Peter Specht called the moment “a unique opportunity” to boost talent density and strengthen research and development. He urged policymakers to streamline visas, harmonize stock options across the EU, and invest in advanced fields like artificial intelligence.

U.K. Considers Visa Reforms

Britain is weighing the removal of visa fees for top professionals, according to the Financial Times. Immigration expert Louise Haycock said the U.K.’s transparent and speedy system is a plus for employers, even as salary and skills thresholds rise.

Fierce Global Competition

Not everyone believes Europe will seize the chance. VC founder Harry Stebbings warned of a “global war for talent,” citing Dubai’s zero capital gains and business-friendly policies as powerful lures. “Why would you come and build here, when Dubai hangs up an ‘open for business’ sign?” he asked.

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

It will feel like summer again on Tuesday, but a fall front brings stormy weather Wednesday

ABC13 Houston
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It will feel like summer again on Tuesday, but a fall front brings stormy weather Wednesday


HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Welcome to Fall, y’all! Sure, it doesn’t feel like it just yet, but our first cool front of the new season arrives on Wednesday.

Tuesday is shaping up to look a lot like Monday: Hot and humid with a 40% chance of getting a brief but heavy rain shower. Temperatures will start off in the mid 70s and peak in the low 90s. Factor in the humidity, and the heat index will easily clear the century mark.

What’s the latest on this incoming “cool” front?

The cool front is coming on Wednesday, moving through Southeast Texas during the afternoon and evening. The changes with this one will unfold over a couple of days. First, we’ll get a round of scattered thunderstorms as the front rolls in, and some of those storms could pack a punch. Severe wind gusts and street flooding are the primary concerns as the front bows in. As the front slowly pushes offshore, a few showers could linger for Thursday morning’s commute. Regarding a temperature drop, don’t get your hopes up too much. More than anything you’ll feel a humidity drop on Thursday as the northwest breeze pushes the moisture offshore. Friday through Sunday is when we get to experience drier, sunnier days with lower humidity and seasonal temperatures. That means morning lows in the upper 60s and afternoon highs in the upper 80s. Keep in mind Houston normally doesn’t see it’s last high in the 90s until mid-October, so this refreshing air will not last forever.

When does the hot, humid air return?

Highs should get back above 90 by Monday at the latest, but the higher humidity levels could hold off until the middle of next week.

What is happening in the tropics?

Major Hurricane Gabrielle is passing by Bermuda at category 4 strength. There are also two more tropical waves to monitor in the Atlantic, one with a medium chance for development and one with a high chance for development over the next 7 days. 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.

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

Latino and Hispanic Hollywood and Broadway stars sign free-speech open letter condemning Jimmy Kimmel’s temporary suspension

Indira Zaldivar
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Latino and Hispanic Hollywood and Broadway stars sign free-speech open letter condemning Jimmy Kimmel’s temporary suspension

When the American Civil Liberties Union released an open letter condemning the government’s role in Jimmy Kimmel’s temporary suspension, hundreds of Hollywood and Broadway figures signed in solidarity. Among them were many prominent Latino and Hispanic performers and creators who used their platform to defend the constitutional right to free expression.

A Letter for the First Amendment

The letter warns that “government threats to our freedom of speech…strike at the heart of what it means to live in a free country.” Signatories emphasized that silencing one voice endangers everyone, urging Americans to “defend and preserve our constitutionally protected rights.”

Latinx and Hispanic Signatories

Several celebrated Latino and Hispanic stars added their names, underscoring how vital free speech is to diverse communities:

  • America Ferrera – The Emmy-winning Ugly Betty and Barbie star of Honduran roots has long advocated for immigrant rights and Latinx representation.
  • Ariana DeBose – An Oscar winner for West Side Story, DeBose is a proud Afro-Latina who often speaks about visibility for marginalized artists.
  • Demián Bichir – The Mexican actor and Academy Award nominee for A Better Life joined the call for protecting artistic voices.
  • Diego Luna – Known for Andor and Rogue One, the Mexican actor-director has consistently supported freedom of expression in the arts.
  • Gabriel Luna – The Texas-born actor of Mexican descent, recognized for The Last of Us and Terminator: Dark Fate, also signed on.
  • Lin-Manuel Miranda – The Hamilton creator and son of Puerto Rican parents has been a leading advocate for both the arts and civil liberties.
  • Luis & Luz Miranda – Lin-Manuel’s parents, who have championed Puerto Rican causes and community activism, added their voices.
  • Melissa Fumero – The Brooklyn Nine-Nine star, of Cuban heritage, is a frequent advocate for Latinx inclusion in television.
  • Melissa Villaseñor – A groundbreaking Latina comedian and former Saturday Night Live cast member joined fellow artists in support.
  • Pedro Pascal – The Chilean-born star of The Last of Us and The Mandalorian lent his global platform to defend free speech.
  • Rafael Casal – The actor, whose family immigrated from Cuba, writer, and director (Blindspotting) added his name to the growing list.
  • Rosario Dawson – The actress and activist of Puerto Rican and Cuban descent reinforced the message of artistic independence.
  • Selena Gomez – One of the world’s biggest pop stars and an outspoken advocate for mental health and immigrant rights, Gomez joined the effort.

A Broader Cultural Stand

These Latino and Hispanic voices stood alongside hundreds of fellow artists—including Meryl Streep, Robert De Niro, and Mark Ruffalo—to call this “a dark moment for freedom of speech.” Their participation highlights how diverse communities recognize the threat when any group’s right to speak is challenged.

As the debate over Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension continues, the united stance of these prominent Latino and Hispanic stars signals that protecting free expression transcends politics, fame, and borders.

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

Jimmy Kimmel Live Set to Return After Suspension

Edward Saenz
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Jimmy Kimmel Live Set to Return After Suspension

ABC confirmed Monday that Jimmy Kimmel Live will return Tuesday, ending nearly a weeklong suspension sparked by the host’s remarks on the Sept. 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Network Explains Decision

Disney, ABC’s parent company, said it halted production to “avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country.” Executives described Kimmel’s comments as “ill-timed and thus insensitive” but said “thoughtful conversations” with the comedian led to the decision to resume the show.

The Remarks That Sparked Backlash

During a monologue, Kimmel said “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk” and accused “the MAGA gang” of trying to portray the alleged killer as “anything other than one of them.” The comments prompted swift criticism and led ABC affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair to preempt the show.

Political and Regulatory Pressure

The controversy drew national attention. Former President Donald Trump, a frequent target of Kimmel’s jokes, called the suspension “great news for America” and urged other late-night hosts be fired. Brendan Carr, a commissioner at the Federal Communications Commission, issued a public warning about Kimmel’s remarks before later denying he threatened to revoke ABC station licenses, saying the issue was “about ratings, not federal action.”

Industry and Public Response

While some affiliates pulled the program, fellow comedians defended Kimmel. More than 430 Hollywood and Broadway figures—including Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep, Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, and Lin-Manuel Miranda—signed an American Civil Liberties Union open letter calling the suspension “a dark moment for freedom of speech.” On ABC’s The View, co-host Whoopi Goldberg declared, “No one silences us,” criticizing Disney’s decision.

Kimmel’s Career and Contract

Kimmel has hosted Jimmy Kimmel Live! since 2003 and is a four-time Academy Awards host. His current contract with Disney-owned ABC runs through May 2026. In a summer interview with Variety, he acknowledged concern about government crackdowns on comedians but said, “That can’t change what you’re doing.”

Late-Night Landscape

The suspension comes amid broader changes in late-night TV, including CBS’s cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s show earlier this year. Disney said it intends to move forward with Kimmel at the helm, with new episodes beginning Tuesday.

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

Angelina Jolie Voices Concern Over Threats to Free Expression

Indira Zaldivar
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Angelina Jolie Voices Concern Over Threats to Free Expression

Angelina Jolie expressed alarm over growing limits on personal freedoms during a press conference at the San Sebastián Film Festival in Spain on Sept. 21, 2025.

“Anything anywhere that divides or, of course, limits personal expressions and freedoms from anyone, I think, is very dangerous,” the actress said while promoting her new film Couture.

“I Don’t Recognize My Country”

Asked what worries her as both an artist and an American, Jolie replied, “I love my country, but I don’t at this time recognize my country.” She added that her life and friendships are international, and that these “very heavy times” require careful words and global unity.

Context of Media Tensions

Jolie’s comments came days after ABC and Disney indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following jokes about former President Donald Trump and the Sept. 15 fatal shooting of activist Charlie Kirk. The move, preceded by remarks from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and Trump’s criticism of negative media coverage, has fueled debate over free speech in U.S. media.

Longtime Humanitarian Advocate

A veteran human rights activist, Jolie has worked extensively with the United Nations refugee agency and frequently highlights global crises. Earlier this year she marked World Refugee Day by noting record-high displacement worldwide and issued a statement on famine in Gaza.

Plans for an International Life

Jolie has previously said she intends to live abroad once her children are grown, citing a desire for privacy and a sense of global community. “Sometimes this place can be…that humanity that I found across the world is not what I grew up with here,” she told The Hollywood Reporter in January, adding that she expects to spend significant time in Cambodia, where her son Maddox was born.

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

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