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Student Loan Collections Restart: What Borrowers in Default Need to Know

Indira Zaldivar
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Student Loan Collections Restart: What Borrowers in Default Need to Know

The Department of Education has resumed collecting on defaulted student loans, putting millions at risk of wage and benefit garnishment. This policy shift comes as the Trump administration rolls back Biden-era reforms aimed at student debt relief.

Who’s Affected?

Over 5 million borrowers are currently in default, and another 4 million are in late-stage delinquency. Those not in default yet are not affected by this change, but experts urge all borrowers to check their loan status to stay informed.

What Is Default?

Federal student loans enter default after 270 days of missed payments. If you’re unsure about your status:

  • Check your credit report
  • Contact your loan servicer
  • Visit studentaid.gov for up-to-date information

How Will Collections Work?

The government has reactivated the Treasury Offset Program, allowing it to collect from:

  • Federal and state tax refunds
  • Social Security benefits

This summer, the Education Department will also restart administrative wage garnishment, where employers may be ordered to withhold part of a borrower’s paycheck.

How to Get Out of Default

1. Loan Rehabilitation

Make nine consecutive, voluntary payments over 10 months. Payments are based on your income, generally 10–15% of discretionary income. Rehabilitation removes the default from your credit report, though previous delinquency will still appear.

2. Loan Consolidation

Combine multiple federal loans into one. This resets eligibility for income-driven repayment plans but restarts the forgiveness timeline.

Are Deferment or Forbearance Options?

Not while in default. Borrowers lose access to deferment, forbearance, and repayment plan choices until they either rehabilitate or consolidate their loans.

Can Bankruptcy Discharge Student Loans?

Discharging student debt in bankruptcy is rare, but possible under the Brunner Test, which requires showing:

  • An inability to maintain a basic standard of living
  • That hardship will continue long-term
  • A good faith effort to repay

Thanks to Biden-era reforms, more borrowers succeeded in discharges, but this may become harder.

Watch Out for Scams

Be cautious of companies promising quick relief for a fee.

Visit studentaid.gov for official information and scam alerts.

For more tips and updates on student loans, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Rain chances climb this week, strong to severe storms possible Tuesday

ABC13 Houston
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Rain chances climb this week, strong to severe storms possible Tuesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — After a picture-perfect weekend, rain chances climb this week with the potential for strong to severe storms multiple days this week. Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Watch Day with the potential for severe storms across Southeast Texas.

Along with the risk of severe weather, flooding will be possible especially for some of our northern counties. A Flood Watch in effect Tuesday for parts of southeast Texas, including the following counties: Brazos, Grimes, Houston, Madison, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity and Walker.

Clouds will build on Monday as temperatures climb into the low 80s. One big difference for Monday though is increasing humidity, which will allow for a few showers and storms to develop in the afternoon and evening. Best chance for rain Monday will be west of I-45, but we can’t rule out a shower or storms getting close to the Beltway or Houston Monday during the evening commute.

What’s on the horizon for this week?

After a gorgeous weekend of calm weather conditions, rain chances return as early as Monday afternoon with even more rain in the coming days. An upper-level low will spin up showers and thunderstorms to Southeast Texas for Tuesday and Wednesday, some of which could be strong to severe. Rain chances for each day are 60 to 80% at this time, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll get some rain either or both days. Then that low lingers over the Southeast Thursday and Friday, so we cant completely rule out a few showers each day.

How about the ABC13 Weather Watch Day for Tuesday?

Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Watch Day because of the potential for strong to severe storms. Almost all of Southeast Texas is included in a Slight Risk for storms from the Storm Prediction Center Tuesday. A warm front will lift through Southeast Texas Tuesday afternoon, paving the way for storms that could produce hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes. Street and area flooding isn’t out of the question either as rainfall rates could be around 1 to 3 inches an hour within some of the largest storms.

How much rain are we talking?

Depends on the intensity of the showers and storms and how many roll through your neighborhood. But on average most of Southeast Texas will pick up around 1 to 3 inches of rain this week. Some areas could see more though, which is why there’s a localized flood concern. Flash flooding could be a localized threat when the heavy rain falls Tuesday and Wednesday.

And any early indications for Mother’s Day weekend?

Thankfully it looks like that upper-level low will finally pull away from the region by next weekend, leaving behind a calmer weekend of weather, potentially similar to that of this weekend. There is a 20% chance for a stray shower Saturday. Mother’s Day Sunday is dry at this time. Both days will be partly cloudy with a mild morning and warm afternoon.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Lady Gaga Sets World Record with Historic 2.5 Million-Person Concert in Brazil

Indira Zaldivar
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Lady Gaga Sets World Record with Historic 2.5 Million-Person Concert in Brazil

Pop Icon Performs for Largest Crowd in Music History

U.S. pop sensation Lady Gaga has officially made history by performing for what is now the largest concert audience ever recorded.

According to concert promoter Live Nation, an estimated 2.5 million people gathered on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday night to witness the landmark performance.

The massive turnout sets a new global record for concert attendance, marking the largest crowd ever for a single live performance—particularly by a woman in music history.

An Emotional Milestone for Lady Gaga

Still overwhelmed by the magnitude of the event, Lady Gaga took to social media platform X on Sunday to reflect on the unforgettable night.

“Nothing could prepare me for the feeling I had during last night’s show — the absolute pride and joy I felt singing for the people of Brazil. The sight of the crowd during my opening songs took my breath away,” she wrote.

Gaga, known for her emotional connection with fans and theatrical stage presence, expressed deep appreciation for the energy and culture of her Brazilian audience.

“Your heart shines so bright, your culture is so vibrant and special, I hope you know how grateful I am to have shared this historical moment with you,” she added.

A Message of Empowerment and Resilience

More than just a performance, Gaga’s message to her fans struck a chord around the world. Reflecting on the scale of the night, she framed the concert as a celebration of perseverance and self-belief.

“An estimated 2.5 million people came to see me sing, the biggest crowd for any woman in history. I wish I could share this feeling with the whole world — I know I can’t, but I can say this — if you lose your way, you can find your way back if you believe in yourself and work hard. You can give yourself dignity by rehearsing your passion and your craft, pushing yourself to new heights — you can lift yourself up even if it takes some time.”

A Cultural Moment Etched in Music History

The event has quickly become one of the most talked-about musical moments of the decade, symbolizing not just Gaga’s global impact, but also the power of music to unite millions in a single, shared experience. Set against the backdrop of Rio’s iconic coastline, the concert reaffirmed Lady Gaga’s place among the most influential and beloved performers of all time.

For more content on world-record-setting pop superstar Lady Gaga, keep up with us on Que Onda Magazine.

1 dead, 13 injured in shooting at family gathering in southeast Houston, HPD says

ABC13 Houston
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1 dead, 13 injured in shooting at family gathering in southeast Houston, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — One person is dead, and more than a dozen others were injured when a shooting broke out during a family gathering in southeast Houston, police said.

The shooting happened just before 1 a.m. Sunday in the 6000 block of Cherryhill. According to police, a family gathering was taking place when an uninvited guest arrived. The guest was asked to leave, and police said he did, but not before firing as he left. Gunfire was also returned from many residents at the scene.

Officers said that as they were arriving, they heard gunshots and saw the injured victims in various locations around the home.

The Houston Police Department said officers created a plan to go to a nearby Jack in the Box to bring the injured victims. Houston Fire Department crews arrived and began tending to the victims, but police said people continued to call about shootings in the area.

In total, 14 people were injured. Police said three were taken to Jack in the Box, some self-reported to hospitals, and at least one died.

Multiple victims were critically injured and are in surgery, and a few of them are stable.

According to police, multiple people were detained.

Brandon Angel told ABC13 he was there as shots were fired and he feared for his life.

“You just see a lot of people start scattering, people on floor, everybody trying to get cover, people pushing other people,” Angel said.

He also said it was scary as everyone started running for safety.

“We tried to get out as fast as we could, and whenever I got to the corner store to wait for my brother, I got detained,” Angel said.

Neither the identities of the suspects nor the victims have been released.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

President Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Send U.S. Troops into Mexico

Edward Saenz
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President Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Send U.S. Troops into Mexico

Tense Phone Call Sparks Debate Over U.S.-Mexico Military Cooperation

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico revealed on Saturday that President Donald Trump proposed sending American troops into Mexico to assist in the fight against drug trafficking. Speaking to supporters in eastern Mexico, Sheinbaum firmly stated that she rejected the idea.

According to Sheinbaum, the proposal came during a tense phone call last month. The conversation, reported by The Wall Street Journal, allegedly involved Trump pressuring her administration to accept greater U.S. military involvement in operations against Mexican drug cartels.

A Firm Rejection in Defense of National Sovereignty

“He said, ‘How can we help you fight drug trafficking? I propose that the United States military come in and help you.’ And you know what I said to him? ‘No, President Trump,’” Sheinbaum told the crowd.

She doubled down on her position, adding: “Sovereignty is not for sale. Sovereignty is loved and defended.”

No Immediate Response from the White House

The White House did not immediately issue a response to Sheinbaum’s public remarks. Her comments, however, are likely to add fuel to ongoing debates about U.S. involvement in foreign drug enforcement, especially in Latin America.

Escalating U.S. Military Presence at the Southern Border

In recent months, the U.S. military has significantly increased its presence along the southern border. Following Trump’s January order, the U.S. Northern Command deployed more troops and equipment, ramped up surveillance operations to track fentanyl trafficking, and sought expanded permissions for U.S. Special Forces to cooperate with Mexican units.

Trump further escalated the issue on February 19 by officially designating many drug cartels operating across the border as foreign terrorist organizations, giving U.S. authorities additional tools to restrict their movements and crack down on their operations.

A Collision Course Between Allies

Despite a history of bilateral cooperation on trade and immigration, Sheinbaum’s remarks signaled a sharp divergence from Trump’s approach to cross-border security. Her refusal to allow U.S. military forces into Mexican territory highlights a broader effort to assert national independence in matters of internal security.

“We can work together, but you in your territory and us in ours,” Sheinbaum stated.

The crowd erupted in applause when she delivered her final, resolute declaration: “We will never accept the presence of the United States military in our territory.”

Keep up with the historic administration of Mexico’s first female president with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Brazilian Police Foil Bomb Plot Targeting Lady Gaga Concert in Rio

Indira Zaldivar
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Brazilian Police Foil Bomb Plot Targeting Lady Gaga Concert in Rio

Two Arrested in Connection to Planned Attack

Brazilian authorities announced Sunday that they successfully thwarted a planned bombing at pop superstar Lady Gaga’s concert in Rio de Janeiro, an event that drew an estimated 2.5 million people to Copacabana Beach on Saturday—the largest concert led by a female artist of all time.

Working closely with Brazil’s Justice Ministry, Rio de Janeiro’s state police intervened to prevent the attack, which was allegedly orchestrated by a group known for spreading hate speech against the LGBTQ community. Law enforcement officials stated the group aimed to radicalize and recruit teenagers to carry out violent acts using Molotov cocktails and improvised explosive devices.

Plot Framed as a Social Media “Challenge”

Investigators revealed that the planned attack was conceived as a “collective challenge” intended to generate online notoriety. “The plan was treated as a ‘collective challenge’ with the aim of gaining notoriety on social media,” police said in a public statement, emphasizing the dangerous influence of extremist online communities.

Nationwide Raids and Arrests

Two individuals have been arrested in connection to the plot. The alleged ringleader was detained in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul on charges related to illegal weapons possession. A teenager was also taken into custody in Rio de Janeiro on charges of child pornography, according to police.

Authorities carried out raids on 15 suspects across several Brazilian states, seizing mobile phones and other electronic equipment as part of the investigation.

Lady Gaga’s Team Responds

In response to the news, a spokesperson for Lady Gaga issued a statement emphasizing that there were no known safety concerns before or during the concert. “We learned about this alleged threat via media reports this morning. Prior to and during the show, there were no known safety concerns, nor any communication from the police or authorities to Lady Gaga regarding any potential risks. Her team worked closely with law enforcement throughout the planning and execution of the concert and all parties were confident in the safety measures in place.”

The incident underscores growing concerns about online radicalization and its potential to incite real-world violence, particularly at high-profile events. Despite the threat, the concert proceeded without incident, with millions of fans gathering to celebrate music and unity on Rio’s iconic shoreline.

Keep up with this developing story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Backyard Crops You Can Plant in May

Indira Zaldivar
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Backyard Crops You Can Plant in May

May is a great month to plant a variety of warm-season crops in your Houston backyard garden. With average temperatures climbing into the 80s and plenty of sunshine, USDA Zone 9 provides an ideal growing environment for both vegetables and herbs. Here are some top crops to consider planting in May:

1. Okra

Okra thrives in Houston’s heat and can handle the hot, humid summer ahead. Sow seeds directly into the garden in full sun. Harvest the pods frequently while they are young and tender.

2. Sweet Potatoes

May is an excellent time to plant sweet potato slips. They need loose, well-drained soil and lots of space to sprawl. These heat-loving tubers will mature in about 90 to 120 days.

3. Southern Peas (Black-eyed peas, Crowder peas)

Southern peas love the heat and are drought-tolerant, making them perfect for Houston summers. Sow seeds directly in the garden for a late summer harvest.

4. Peppers (Bell, Jalapeño, Banana)

If you missed planting peppers in early spring, you can still transplant established seedlings in early May. They need full sun and consistent watering to thrive.

5. Eggplant

Like peppers, eggplants love warm soil. Transplant young plants into your garden beds and provide support as they grow. Watch for flea beetles and other pests.

6. Basil and Other Herbs

Basil, oregano, thyme, and mint grow well in the heat of May. Basil especially flourishes and benefits from frequent harvesting, which encourages bushier growth.

7. Malabar Spinach

This heat-tolerant leafy green thrives where regular spinach wilts. It climbs easily, so give it a trellis and enjoy fresh greens throughout the summer.

8. Yardlong Beans (Asparagus Beans)

These vigorous climbers do well in the Houston heat and produce long, tender pods. Direct sow and provide a trellis or fence for support.

Tips for Success:

  • Mulch: Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Water: Houston heat dries soil quickly. Water deeply and early in the morning.
  • Watch for pests: Aphids, squash bugs, and caterpillars can appear this time of year. Monitor plants regularly and use organic pest control methods when possible.

May is a transitional month for gardening in Houston. With the right crops and care, your backyard garden can thrive and provide fresh produce all summer long.

Downtown Houston Gears Up for Colorful Cinco de Mayo Parade

Indira Zaldivar
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Downtown Houston Gears Up for Colorful Cinco de Mayo Parade

One of Houston’s most vibrant celebrations returns this weekend as the 2025 LULAC District 8 Cinco de Mayo Parade brings music, color, and community to the streets of downtown.

Parade Details and Livestream

The parade kicks off Saturday at 10 a.m., running through noon.

More Than a Party — A Cultural Tribute

Cinco de Mayo, often misunderstood as Mexican Independence Day, actually commemorates Mexico’s unlikely victory over France at the 1862 Battle of Puebla.

A Celebration of Houston’s Hispanic Community

With Houston now home to the fourth-largest Hispanic population in the U.S., according to Census data, the parade reflects the city’s growing cultural diversity. Hispanic residents make up over 40% of the Houston metro area and own 42% of its businesses, according to the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Parade Route

  • Starts on Dallas at Bagby
  • East on Dallas
  • North on Louisiana
  • West on Walker
  • South on Smith
  • West on Lamar
  • Ends on Lamar at Bagby

A Citywide Invitation

The event welcomes schools, businesses, and families to join in celebrating Houston’s Hispanic heritage.

Que Onda Magazine is the proud print media sponsor of LULAC’s Cinco de Mayo Parade.

Rockets Rally Past Warriors in Game 6 to Force Decisive Game 7 in Houston

Edward Saenz
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Rockets Rally Past Warriors in Game 6 to Force Decisive Game 7 in Houston

The Houston Rockets are still alive.

Behind a clutch performance from Fred VanVleet and a dominant team effort, Houston defeated the Golden State Warriors 115-107 Friday night to force a winner-takes-all Game 7 in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.

VanVleet Leads with Poise and Power

Fred VanVleet delivered when it counted most, finishing with 29 points, eight assists, and eight rebounds. His four-point play to open the fourth quarter flipped momentum back to Houston after Stephen Curry’s late-third-quarter surge had cut the Rockets’ lead to two.

VanVleet followed with a dagger three-pointer to put the Rockets up 101-89, and Houston never looked back.

Golden State Goes Cold

The Warriors, who once led the series 3-1, struggled to find rhythm when it mattered most. They missed 13 straight shots in the fourth quarter, going scoreless for nearly seven minutes as Houston’s defense tightened.

Curry led Golden State with 29 points but shot just 9-for-23 from the field and 6-for-16 from three. Jimmy Butler added 27 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists in the loss.

Balanced Rockets Answer Every Run

Alperen Sengun added 21 points and 14 rebounds, while Steven Adams came off the bench to provide energy and 17 crucial points. Jalen Green also chipped in with key hustle plays, including a putback off his own miss that extended the lead early in the fourth.

“It was a mantra going into the series: play through everything,” Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said, according to AP News. Now 5-1 when facing elimination, Udoka credited his team’s composure and physicality for the win.

Game 7 Bound for Houston

The Rockets’ Game 5 win reignited the series, and now the momentum is squarely on their side heading into Sunday’s Game 7 at home. The winner will meet a well-rested Minnesota Timberwolves team in the Western Conference semifinals.

Golden State, previously hoping to close out the series on home court, must now regroup for what could be the final game of their postseason.

“We can’t give up a four-point play in a two-point game,” said Draymond Green, frustrated by missed opportunities and defensive lapses.

Game 7 tips off Sunday in Houston at 7:30 p.m.

Keep up with Houston Rockets’ climb to the top with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Newly Released Video Shows 2022 Tennessee Traffic Stop of Kilmar Abrego Garcia

Edward Saenz
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Newly Released Video Shows 2022 Tennessee Traffic Stop of Kilmar Abrego Garcia

Body camera footage obtained by ABC News reveals the 2022 traffic stop of Kilmar Abrego Garcia on Interstate 40 in Tennessee—an event that’s now part of the broader controversy surrounding his wrongful deportation to El Salvador.

Pulled Over But Not Arrested

The video shows Tennessee state troopers questioning Abrego Garcia on the roadside at night. He was stopped for driving 75 mph in a 65 zone and cited for having an expired driver’s license. He was not arrested, and no illegal activity was found after a K-9 search. Troopers eventually let him go.

Claims of Human Trafficking Disputed

The Department of Homeland Security later referenced this stop in an April press release, calling it part of a “bombshell” investigation and labeling Abrego Garcia a suspected human trafficker. But his wife, Jennifer Vasquez, said he worked in construction and often transported workers, calling the claim unfounded.

Confusion Over the Date

DHS listed the stop as happening on December 1, 2022, but Tennessee Highway Patrol records show it occurred on November 30, near Cookeville, about 80 miles from Nashville.

From Traffic Stop to Deportation

This traffic stop was separate from the March 2024 encounter with federal agents in Maryland that led to Abrego Garcia’s deportation. Despite a 2019 court order prohibiting his removal due to fears of persecution, he was sent to El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison after being accused—without charges—of MS-13 gang ties, which his family and legal team strongly deny.

Supreme Court Rules for Return

A federal judge and the U.S. Supreme Court have since ruled that the U.S. government must facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return. The Biden administration acknowledged the deportation was in error, though former Trump officials argue his alleged gang ties disqualify him from returning.

Ongoing Legal and Political Fallout

The case has sparked diplomatic tension, with reports that Senator Marco Rubio has spoken to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele about Garcia’s situation. Meanwhile, Abrego Garcia remains in legal limbo, as advocates push for accountability and his safe return.

Keep up with Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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