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Jelly Roll Donates Grammy Award to Nashville Juvenile Detention Center

Indira Zaldivar
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Jelly Roll Donates Grammy Award to Nashville Juvenile Detention Center

Country artist Jelly Roll announced he is giving away one of his Grammy Awards to a cause rooted deeply in his own past, even as his recent ceremony remarks sparked online debate.

Big Night at the Grammys

At the 68th Grammy Awards, the 41-year-old singer won three trophies: Best Country Duo/Group Performance for Amen with Shaboozey, Best Contemporary Country Album for Beautifully Broken, and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for Hard Fought Hallelujah with Brandon Lake.

During his acceptance speeches, Jelly Roll delivered faith-centered remarks crediting Jesus for guiding him through his darkest moments. The comments drew mixed reactions online, with some critics labeling the speech “MAGA-coded” and expressing frustration that he did not address immigration enforcement issues amid heightened national tensions.

Giving Back Where It Started

Despite the controversy, Jelly Roll earned praise for his decision to donate one of his Grammy trophies to the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center in Nashville.

His wife, Bunnie Xo, shared that the award would be given to the facility to inspire youth currently housed there. Jelly Roll spent time at the detention center between the ages of 14 and 16, including several birthdays, during a turbulent period marked by repeated incarcerations.

Music as a Lifeline

Jelly Roll has said his time in juvenile detention was where he first discovered music — a turning point that ultimately changed his life. Since rising to fame, he has consistently supported the facility, using music as a tool for rehabilitation and hope.

In 2024, he funded the launch of a recording studio inside the detention center, providing instruments, equipment, and programming for at-risk youth.

A Message of Hope

Reflecting on his decision, Jelly Roll said giving back to young people is essential, especially those born into difficult circumstances.

“They can’t always see past their environment,” he said in a recent interview. “I just hope to bring hope and be a light for those kids.”

For more on the musical world, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Part of I-10 in east Houston may remain closed until Monday due to sinkhole, TxDOT says

ABC13 Houston
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Part of I-10 in east Houston may remain closed until Monday due to sinkhole, TxDOT says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A sinkhole in the pavement on the East Freeway caused delays for Houston drivers on Wednesday, with officials saying the eastbound lanes could be closed at least until Monday due to repairs.

SkyEye was over the freeway when all eastbound lanes were blocked due to a sinkhole on the shoulder of the roadway near Federal Road.

TxDOT advised drivers to expect delays due to a “pavement issue” that forced the closure of all lanes.

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Terry Garza said it was a sinkhole caused by a water leak beneath the freeway.

According to TxDOT, the City of Houston has to assess the waterlines before TxDOT crews can assess damages to the roadway in order to begin repairs. According to the agency, TxDOT is estimating this portion of I-10 could be shut down until Monday morning, adding that this estimate depends on the extent of the waterline damage.

Live traffic map

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Minnesota Student Released From ICE Custody After Monthlong Detention

Edward Saenz
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Minnesota Student Released From ICE Custody After Monthlong Detention

Elizabeth Caisaguano, a 10-year-old student from Minnesota, was released Tuesday night from an ICE family detention center in Texas along with her mother, Rosa, after spending nearly a month in federal custody.

Detained on the Way to School

Elizabeth and her mother were taken into custody on Jan. 6 while traveling to school in Columbia Heights during a large-scale immigration enforcement operation under the Trump administration. The family, who fled Ecuador, has an active asylum application, according to school officials.

Elizabeth was transferred to the family detention facility in Dilley, Texas, where hundreds of minors are held. Attorneys later raised concerns about a measles outbreak at the facility, which complicated efforts to secure the family’s release.

Community Shock and Scramble for Answers

Elizabeth became the first of five students from the Columbia Heights school district detained by ICE. School staff said they initially believed Elizabeth would be dropped off at school after she was allowed to call her father.

Instead, she was quietly flown to Texas later that day.

Tracy Xiong, a social worker at Highland Elementary School, said staff spent hours trying to locate Elizabeth after she failed to arrive. By afternoon, they learned she had been transported out of state — a move immigration attorneys say can limit detainees’ access to legal representation.

Echoes of Other Child Detentions

Elizabeth’s case drew comparisons to that of Liam Ramos, a 5-year-old from the same community who was released from the same Texas facility over the weekend following widespread public pressure.

A Student Remembered at School

Elizabeth is a fourth-grade student described by school leaders as soft-spoken but resilient. She enjoys volleyball, dreams of becoming a doctor, and rides the school bus each morning. Her principal said she is often seen laughing with friends and thriving in the classroom.

“I’m extremely happy and relieved,” said school administrator Carolina Gutierrez. “But we have to continue advocating and speaking up for other people to come home.”

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

Trump Sparks a Redistricting Arms Race

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump Sparks a Redistricting Arms Race

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

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

Republican-Led States Advancing New Maps

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

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

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

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

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

Republican Efforts That Fell Short

Not all GOP efforts succeeded.

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

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

Democratic Gains Sought in Other States

Democrats are also pursuing redistricting advantages in several states:

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

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

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

Maryland Effort Stalls

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

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

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

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

Penny Crowned Best in Show

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

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

Beating Thousands for the Title

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

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

Handler’s Long-Awaited Moment

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

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

A Historic Year for Westminster

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

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

What’s Next for Penny

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

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

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

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

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

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

Identifying the Right Outlets

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

Houston Hispanic Media Landscape

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

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

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

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

Building Relationships with Reporters

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

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

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

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

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

Crafting a Compelling Press Kit

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

Essential Elements of a Media Kit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writing Newsworthy Angles

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

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

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

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

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

Pitching Your Story Effectively

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

Timelines for Local Media Outreach Houston

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

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

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

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

Leveraging Bilingual Media Houston

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

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

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

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

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

Federal Immigration Enforcement Scaled Back in Minnesota

Edward Saenz
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Federal Immigration Enforcement Scaled Back in Minnesota

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

Cooperation Linked to Drawdown

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

No End Date Set

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

Operation Defended

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

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

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

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

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

Story upload by international artist Lorde on Instagram.

Donation Made During Minneapolis Tour Stops

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

Artists Amplify Anti-ICE Messages

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

Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish Speak Out at the Grammys

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

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

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

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

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

By Nick Natario, ABC13 Houston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to apply

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

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

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

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

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

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

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Storms have moved out, chilly sunshine returns Wednesday

ABC13 Houston
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Storms have moved out, chilly sunshine returns Wednesday

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

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

How long does the cooler air stick around?

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

How is the weekend shaping up?

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

Could we get more severe weather any time soon?

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

Any more cold blasts possible in February?

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

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

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