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NAACP Sues Texas Over New Congressional Map

Indira Zaldivar
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NAACP Sues Texas Over New Congressional Map

The NAACP has filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas, arguing that its newly passed congressional map discriminates against voters of color and violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Allegations of Discrimination

The suit claims that the new map — along with past maps drawn after the 2020 Census — intentionally dilutes the voting strength of Black and Latino communities. NAACP president Derrick Johnson called the mid-decade redistricting effort “racially motivated” and said it aims to reduce congressional representation for Black voters.

Lack of Public Input

According to the lawsuit, Texas lawmakers pushed the map through without allowing sufficient public comment or feedback before approval. The complaint asks the court to block the state from enforcing the new district boundaries.

Republican Defense

Republican leaders have defended the maps, saying they were based on political performance rather than race. The map, not yet signed into law, could shift as many as five districts toward Republicans by merging Democratic strongholds in Houston, Austin, and Dallas-Fort Worth and making two Rio Grande Valley districts more competitive.

Wider Redistricting Battle

The NAACP also urged blue states like California and New York to redraw their own congressional maps in retaliation. “We must counter Texas’ unconstitutional move and ensure Black Americans still have a voice in Congress,” the organization said.

For more on the problematic redistricting maps and Texas Legislature, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Chris Watts wrote he’s a ‘A New Man:’ From Family Murder to Life in Prison

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Chris Watts wrote he’s a ‘A New Man:’ From Family Murder to Life in Prison

Few cases have shocked the U.S. in recent decades like that of Chris Watts. Now 40, he is serving life in prison for the 2018 murders of his pregnant wife, Shanann, and their daughters, Bella, 4, and Celeste, 3.

The Disappearance and Cover-Up

When Shanann and the girls were first reported missing, Watts appeared on television pleading for their return. Behind the scenes, he was hiding a grim truth: he had strangled Shanann, suffocated the children, and disposed of their bodies at an oil site in Frederick, Colorado.

Motive and Affair

Investigators later uncovered that Watts was having an affair with coworker Nichol Kessinger and hoped to start a new life with her. His attempt to frame Shanann for the children’s deaths unraveled when he failed a lie-detector test and eventually confessed.

Sentencing

Watts avoided the death penalty by pleading guilty. He received three consecutive life sentences plus 84 years, with no chance of parole. He has been housed at Dodge Correctional Institution in Wisconsin ever since.

Prison Life and Claims of Forgiveness

According to reports, Watts believes God has forgiven him. In letters to a pen pal, he wrote about becoming “a new man” through faith, claiming he has finally found peace.

But inside prison, former inmates say he is widely despised. “He’s the lowest of the low,” one ex-prisoner told The New York Post. Watts lives in near isolation, spending most of his time reading the Bible and writing letters, under close guard for his own safety.

For more true crime stories, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Rain chances climb this week as humid weather returns

ABC13 Houston
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0
Rain chances climb this week as humid weather returns

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) —  It will feel more humid as you step outside on Wednesday. That added moisture will help spark scattered showers and a few storms during the morning commute. Numerous showers and storms will be possible during the afternoon as high temperatures climb in the low to mid 90s.

This wet and active weather pattern will continue through the week ahead of another cool front arriving Saturday.

What’s the latest on the rain and storm chances this week?

Rain chances climb this week thanks to the help of our sea breeze, increasing moisture, and more disturbances approaching the region from the north. Rain chances through Saturday of this week sit at about 40 to 60 percent. And as all of this is happening, temperatures in Southeast Texas will stay pretty seasonal with afternoon highs in the low-mid 90s. Friday’s temps may make it to the upper 90s before the rain starts.

How are things looking for Labor Day weekend?

A cool front will give us a chance for showers and storms Saturday, then we’ll start to dry out. Not only will our rain chances drop by Labor Day, our temps and humidity levels will drop too. How does virtually no rain, with low humidity and high temps around 90 sound for the holiday?

What is happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Fernand continues to weaken in the open Atlantic with no threat to land. 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.

Houston City Council hosts 1st evening public session

Indira Zaldivar
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Houston City Council hosts 1st evening public session

Houston City Council held its first-ever evening public comment session on Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall.

The evening session is part of a new pilot program designed to make it easier for Houstonians to participate in local government. Traditionally, public hearings are scheduled at 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, limiting access for residents juggling work, traffic, and family responsibilities.

“This is about meeting people where they are,” said Council Member Mario Castillo, who proposed the change. “We want to hear from more Houstonians—not just those who can take off in the middle of the day.”

How the Pilot Program Works

  • Schedule: The last Tuesday of each month, from Aug. 26 through Dec. 16, will feature an evening session.
  • Time: Public comment begins at 6 p.m. instead of 2 p.m.
  • Goal: To expand civic engagement and allow more residents to share their concerns and ideas.

While the first session took place at City Hall, officials considered rotating future evening sessions to community spaces such as libraries and cultural centers. Bringing back virtual comments that were first implemented due to COVID-19, were also discussed in prior meetings to encourage both in-person and virtual comments. Furthermore, staff also acknowledged potential costs, including security and broadcasting, but emphasized the value of community accessibility.

“This is a small but meaningful change,” Castillo added. “We’re hoping it opens the door for more voices to be heard.”

How to Register to Speak

If you want to address City Council during an evening session, you must register by 3 p.m. on the Monday before the meeting.

Residents can sign up by:

  • Calling 832.393.1100
  • Emailing speakers@houstontx.gov
  • Visiting the Office of the City Secretary, City Hall Annex, 900 Bagby, Room P101

What’s Next

The pilot will run through Dec. 16, after which City Council will review participation numbers and public feedback to determine whether evening sessions should become permanent in 2026.

The dates of the four remaining evening public sessions are the following.

  • Tuesday, Sept. 16
  • Tuesday, Oct. 28
  • Tuesday, Nov. 18
  • Tuesday, Dec. 16

“This is a step toward more inclusive civic participation,” Castillo said. “We’re making space for voices that have too often been left out.”

Stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine for weekly coverage of Houston City Council.

Netflix Film Breaks 18-Year Record

Michael Esparza
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Netflix Film Breaks 18-Year Record

Netflix has reached an unprecedented milestone with the release of K-Pop Demon Hunters, which has now amassed more than 350 million global views since its premiere in June. This animated musical phenomenon, co-produced with Sony Pictures Animation, quickly became a global event, shattering multiple streaming records and captivating audiences in countries around the world.

Second-Most Watched Netflix Film in History

According to Netflix’s own data, K-Pop Demon Hunters is now the second-most watched film ever on the platform, trailing only Red Notice (2021), the $200 million action spectacular starring Dwayne Johnson and Ryan Reynolds. The film has already pulled ahead of other streaming blockbusters such as Bird Box and Don’t Look Up, both of which previously set high watermarks for Netflix originals.

Global Release and Box Office Impact

Initially launched as a Netflix exclusive for streaming audiences on June 20, K-Pop Demon Hunters also made history as one of the rare original films to be released in theaters internationally just two months later. Its limited “sing-along” edition debuted in over 1,700 theaters worldwide the weekend of August 23-24, drawing tens of thousands of fans and topping the U.S. box office for that period—another first for a Netflix production. Industry analysts have noted that, if not for its early streaming release, the film’s theatrical performance could have rivaled traditional blockbusters.

A Historic First for Netflix Originals

In Netflix’s 18 years of original film production, no title has reached the streaming heights of K-Pop Demon Hunters. The film’s viewership continued to soar through August, with weekly view counts rarely dipping below 19 million and a streak of 15 consecutive weeks in the platform’s global Top 10. Such consistency is unprecedented, and the film’s passionate fanbase has driven equally impressive numbers for its original soundtrack, which broke into the Billboard Top 10 and was certified Platinum by the RIAA in October.

Cultural Phenomenon

Critics and fans alike have hailed K-Pop Demon Hunters as a cultural milestone, citing its blend of K-pop music, fantasy action, and relatable characters as key ingredients for its runaway success. The movie’s fresh spin on the K-pop idol genre—with a girl group doubling as demon hunters—has struck a chord worldwide, sparking trends, challenges, and even merchandise that quickly sold out in Netflix’s online shop.

K-Pop Demon Hunters is more than just a Netflix hit—it’s a historic, genre-defining film that has changed the streaming landscape, set new records for global engagement, and opened doors for more ambitious international collaborations.

For the latest film news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Fires Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook

Edward Saenz
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Trump Fires Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook

President Donald Trump announced late Monday that he is firing Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, citing allegations of mortgage fraud. The move marks a dramatic escalation in his effort to assert control over the central bank.

Allegations of Mortgage Fraud

The accusations stem from claims by Bill Pulte, a Trump appointee to the agency overseeing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Pulte alleged that in 2021, Cook listed two primary residences — one in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and another in Atlanta — to obtain better mortgage terms.

Mortgage rates are typically higher for second homes or rental properties.

Fight Over Fed Independence

Cook, who had already resisted Trump’s earlier calls to resign, was one of seven members on the Fed’s governing board. Her removal raises significant questions about the Fed’s independence from political pressure.

Trump insisted he has constitutional authority to remove her, but legal experts say the move will likely trigger a court battle. Cook may be allowed to keep her seat while the case proceeds.

Broader Push for Control

The firing comes as part of Trump’s wider push to reshape the Fed. He has long criticized Chair Jerome Powell for not cutting interest rates and has threatened to fire him as well.

Removing Cook would give Trump a chance to appoint an ally who supports his stance on lowering rates.

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

Florida Teen Missing for Two Years Found in North Carolina

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Florida Teen Missing for Two Years Found in North Carolina

In June 2023, 16-year-old Gracie Elizabeth Landa disappeared from her Tampa, Florida, home and was listed in the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s database.

Two years later, she has resurfaced—this time as a murder suspect in North Carolina.

Arrest in Durham Shooting

Now 18, Landa was arrested Monday in Durham and charged in connection with the death of 23-year-old Christopher Piedrasanta-Perez.

Authorities say Piedrasanta-Perez had just finished a DoorDash delivery with his girlfriend when he was shot and killed in his car near Whippoorwill Park on May 30. Two women with him were also injured.

Details of the Attack

Police reports indicate that two or three people opened fire on the vehicle, unleashing more than 40 rounds from multiple weapons. An autopsy confirmed that Piedrasanta-Perez died from a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators have not clarified whether Landa was among the shooters or played another role in the attack.

Family in Mourning

Piedrasanta-Perez’s mother, Amalia Perez, described her son as hardworking and family-oriented. A graduate of Southern High School, he worked at FedEx and took DoorDash jobs to help support his family.

“He was not out there looking for trouble. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time,” she told local reporters.

On a GoFundMe page, family members remembered him as “respectful, funny, caring, loving, hardworking,” and the first of 10 grandchildren.

What’s Next

Authorities say other suspects remain at large. Landa is being held at the Durham County jail without bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 11.

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

Rain chances climb this week as humid weather returns

ABC13 Houston
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0
Rain chances climb this week as humid weather returns

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Even though temps were on the hot side Monday, it didn’t feel too bad because the humidity was somewhat low. We won’t be as lucky Tuesday with higher humidity on the way. That moisture increase will give us chances for showers which will stick with us the rest of the week.

What’s the latest on the rain and storm chances this week?

Rain chances climb this week thanks to the help of our sea breeze, increasing moisture, and more disturbances approaching the region from the north. Rain chances Tuesday through Saturday of this week sit at about 30 to 40 percent each day to account for showers or storms that develop with onshore flow from the Gulf. And as all of this is happening, temperature wise Southeast Texas will stay pretty seasonal with afternoon highs in the low-mid 90s.

How are things looking for Labor Day weekend?

A cool front will give us a chance for showers and storms Saturday, then we’ll start to dry out. Not only will our rain chances drop by Labor Day, our temps and humidity levels will drop too. How does virtually no rain, with low humidity and high temps around 90 sound for the holiday?

What is happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Fernand continues to weaken in the open Atlantic with no threat to land. 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.

First U.S. Human Case of Flesh-Eating Parasite Confirmed

Edward Saenz
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0
First U.S. Human Case of Flesh-Eating Parasite Confirmed

Case Linked to Travel

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed the nation’s first human case of the New World Screwworm. The patient, a Maryland resident, had recently returned from travel to El Salvador. State health officials said the individual has since recovered, and there is no evidence of further spread.

What Is the New World Screwworm?

The parasite is caused by a species of fly whose larvae feed on live tissue, burrowing into wounds with sharp hooks. Left untreated, infestations can cause severe damage and even death in animals and humans.

Global Outbreak Concerns

While eradicated in the U.S. decades ago, outbreaks have surged across Central America. Panama reported more than 6,500 livestock cases in 2023, compared to just 25 annually in previous years. The parasite has since spread to seven other countries in the region.

U.S. Preventive Measures

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says the risk to the public remains low but warns the parasite could threaten ranching, food supply, and national security. Measures include building a sterile fly facility in Texas, deploying mounted patrol officers, and using detector dogs at ports of entry.

In May, the USDA temporarily banned imports of live cattle, horses, and bison from Mexico and later issued restricted reopenings. The FDA has also authorized emergency animal drugs to treat screwworm infestations.

Who Is at Risk?

According to the CDC, higher-risk groups include travelers to outbreak areas, people spending time around livestock, and those with open wounds who sleep outdoors.

For more disease prevention tips and the latest health news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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