Houston Housing Market Sees Sales Drop in 2023 but Outlook Improves for 2024
Houston's housing market experienced a downturn in 2023, with a decrease in home sales and overall property sales. However, conditions are looking more favorable for 2024 with modest pricing adjustments and increased housing inventory.
Severe Freeze Hits Houston, Prompting Shutdowns and Reduced Hours by Government Offices and Major Retailers
Houston faces severe cold, prompting business and government closures, including the Harris County Clerk's Office and METRO transit services, with potential reopenings contingent on weather improvements.
Texas Man Slaps Sunglass Hut, Macy's With $10M Suit After Facial Recognition Fiasco Leads to False Imprisonment, Gruesome Assault in Houston
A Texas man is suing Sunglass Hut, Macy's, and their parent companies for $10 million over a wrongful arrest and subsequent assault based on flawed facial recognition technology.
Buff Brew CEO Vows Swift Reopening Amid Houston Venue Lockout and Financial Struggles
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co. (Buff Brew) is embroiled in a dispute over its closed Sawyer Yards venue, with CEO William McLucas promising to resolve financial issues and reopen, despite facing legal challenges and a lawsuit from Frost Bank.
Houston Downtown Aquarium Ordered to Pay $2.8 Million for Patron's Injury, Faces Safety Scrutiny
A jury awarded $2.825 million to Glenda Lammert for an ankle injury sustained at Houston's Downtown Aquarium, owned by Landry's. Another incident involving a partial building collapse occurred but resulted in non-life-threatening injuries.
Houston's East End to Transform with New Culinary and Mixed-use Developments
Houston's East End will see aging warehouses transformed into a "food-maker" campus and a mixed-use district, with commercial kitchen spaces for local vendors and a pedestrian-friendly design featuring dining, shopping, office spaces, and greenspace.
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Barkbus Brings Luxury Mobile Dog Grooming to Houston Neighborhoods, Expanding Texas Footprint
Barkbus, a mobile dog grooming service, is expanding to Houston, targeting areas with high dog populations after launching in Dallas. Its luxury vans offer convenient doorstep grooming with prices ranging from $130 to $350.
Big Oil Gambles on Carbon as Chevron and Others Eye Profits with New Wells in Texas and the Gulf
Oil companies in Texas are exploring carbon capture storage (CCS) projects, incentivized by a federal tax credit and potential profits. Critics question the technology's long-term effectiveness and environmental impact.
Tour de Houston Revs Up with New Routes and Finish at Discovery Green This April
The Tour de Houston cycling event has a new start and finish at Discovery Green, raising funds for Re-Plant Houston and inviting cyclists of all levels. The 17th annual event includes three routes and a post-ride party. Registration is open online.
Over 3.7 Million Vehicles Advised to Park Outside Across Major U.S. Cities Including Houston and Los Angeles
Vehicle fire recalls in the US have risen to 3.7 million, with Houston, Atlanta, and California seeing significant increases. Owners are urged to park outside to avoid potential spontaneous fires.
Conroe Grapples with $155K in Unreceipted Hotel Tax Spending, Post-Audit Revelations Prompt Action
An audit in Conroe, Texas, revealed $155K in untracked hotel tax spending, leading to city scrutiny and changes in financial oversight, while United Airlines introduced mile-sharing for frequent flyers.
Deer Park Skies Light Up with Shell Chemical Plant Flare as Harris County Judge Seeks Transparency on Emissions
A flare at the Shell Chemical plant in Deer Park, Texas, following a power outage, is expected to last a week. The effect on locals and specifics of chemicals burned have raised concerns, but Shell asserts no community threat.
Australian Company Funlab Brings Holey Moley Mini Golf and Karaoke to Houston's River Oaks
Funlab is opening Holey Moley, a mini golf and karaoke venue, in Houston's River Oaks in mid-April, following its success in other cities. The venue will feature themed golf holes, private karaoke rooms, and a dining area named The Caddyshack.
Over 2,000 Jobs Lost as Humble-Based U.S. Logistics Solutions Abruptly Closes, Bypassing WARN Notice
Over 2,000 U.S. Logistics Solutions employees were laid off abruptly after the funding firm, Ten Oaks Group, stopped financing, bypassing the 60-day WARN notice. The company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and ceased operations.
Houston Set to Embrace Luxury Resort WorldSprings with Mineral Soaking Pools by Late 2025
Houston is anticipated to welcome a WorldSprings luxury health spa, following a Dallas opening. The $40 million Houston spa will feature body treatments, facials, and mineral soaking pools, and is set to begin construction in September 2024.
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Great Wolf Lodge Texas Gulf Coast in Webster to Open Early, Plans 600 New Jobs at Upcoming Job Fair
Great Wolf Lodge Texas Gulf Coast in Webster is set to open on August 7, earlier than planned. The resort seeks to hire 600 workers, offering various roles and competitive wages at a job fair starting June 29.
Houston Hosts Key Negotiations as Golden Pass LNG and Zachry Holdings Seek Settlement in Construction Dispute
Golden Pass LNG and contractor Zachry Holdings work towards resolving their construction dispute amidst a bankruptcy hearing, with both sides presenting solutions and engaging in complex negotiations to save the Gulf Coast export terminal project.
Texas Churches Struggle to Find Affordable Insurance as Major Insurer Retreats
United Methodist Churches in Texas struggle with rising insurance premiums and reduced coverage as insurers reassess risks due to weather-related losses. Many congregations are left vulnerable or face steep rate increases in their property insurance.
Fort Bend County Witnesses Economic Surge with Doubling of Businesses and Population Growth
Fort Bend County has experienced significant economic growth, with its business count nearly doubling to 15,000 in a decade and median household income exceeding $100,000, highlighting its diverse workforce and infrastructure development.
Uber Freight Partners with Aurora to Launch Autonomous Trucking on Dallas-Houston Route
Uber Freight and Aurora Innovation partner to introduce autonomous trucking services in Texas, focusing on safety and efficiency. They plan to operate self-driving trucks on the Dallas to Houston corridor by the end of the year.
Houston Faces Price Gouging as Hurricane Beryl's Economic Toll Hits $30 Billion, Residents Urged to Report Exploitation
Post-Hurricane Beryl, Houstonians face price gouging while dealing with the storm's estimated $28-32 billion in damages. Authorities urge reporting of overpricing to protect consumers.
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Bullet Vending Machines in Texas Stir Safety and Regulation Debate Amid Expansion Plans
American Rounds launched bullet vending machines in Texas, stirring debate due to safety concerns, given their placement near schools and the ease of ammo access, despite featuring technology to ensure buyer's identity and age.
The Woodlands Township and Montgomery County Eye Switch to Entergy Texas Amid Criticism of CenterPoint Energy's Storm Response
Officials in The Woodlands, TX, are considering switching from CenterPoint Energy to Entergy for power provision, citing poor communication and frequent outages, especially after Hurricane Beryl.
Texas-Based Conn's HomePlus Faces Potential Bankruptcy, Houston and Nationwide Store Closures Loom
Conn's HomePlus is facing potential bankruptcy and may close up to 100 stores despite optimism from its CEO and recent acquisition of W.S. Badcock. Declines in sale and stock value have put the retailer's future in question.
New Retailers to Boost The Woodlands' Shopping Experience, Oliver Peoples and Golden Goose Among Confirmed Additions
The Woodlands in Northern Houston is expecting several new retailers by 2024, including high-end boutiques like Oliver Peoples, global brands like Pandora, and furniture stores like Havertys, alongside other businesses.
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Little Woodrow's Tomball Outpaces The Spot in Galveston in Post-Pandemic Alcohol Sales Surge
Houston suburbs' alcohol sales fluctuate post-pandemic, with Little Woodrow's leading in June. Perry's Restaurants missed from the top sales list, while establishments like Voodoo Hut faced sharp sales drops in March.
Chevron to Shift Headquarters from San Ramon to Houston, Citing Business-Friendly Climate
Chevron plans to move its headquarters from California to Texas, citing a business-friendly environment and lower cost of living as reasons for the transition, with economic impacts expected on local housing and spending.
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League City Buzzes with New Businesses: Authentic Mexican Cuisine, Asian Eateries, and Music School Enrich Local Scene
League City announces new businesses in August Biz Brief, including La India Bonita, Little K Kitchen, and Attuned School of Music, offering Mexican, Asian cuisine, and music lessons respectively.
Circle K Offers Labor Day Gas Discounts in Multiple States with Proceeds Supporting Hurricane Beryl Recovery
Circle K offers Labor Day gas discounts in select states, with up to 30 cents off per gallon at certain times and locations, and profits from Polar Pop sales supporting Hurricane Beryl recovery.
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Progressive Halts New Home Insurance Policies in Texas Amid Climatic Strains, Impacting Buyers and Market
Progressive Insurance has discontinued offering new home insurance policies in Texas, due to the increased risk from extreme weather events. Current policyholders may face uncertainty about future coverage.
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Energy Leaders Converge in Houston for Gastech 2024 to Discuss Climate Action and Sustainability
The Gastech Conference 2024 in Houston showcases global energy solutions focusing on sustainability, with over 800 companies from 125 countries participating and featuring talks by leaders such as former President George W. Bush.
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Chevron Moves Headquarters from San Ramon to Houston, Boosting Texas Economy and Educational Programs
Chevron is moving its headquarters from California to Texas, citing conflicts with California's energy policies. They're investing in education in Houston, where their new base will be, as part of their commitment to workforce development.
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CenterPoint Energy Launches Power Grid Upgrade in Houston to Withstand Hurricanes, Consumers Face Possible Bill Increase
CenterPoint Energy is enhancing its power grid with stronger poles and buried lines to weather future storms, while also updating its natural gas infrastructure in Houston. The costs of these upgrades may lead to higher customer bills.
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Rice University Launches Virani Undergraduate School of Business With Major Donation from Houston Philanthropists
Rice University inaugurated the Virani Undergraduate School of Business, sponsored by Farid and Asha Virani, to enhance its business education, differentiating it from the Jones Graduate School of Business.
Sage Geosystems Partners with DoD to Pilot Geothermal Energy at NAS Corpus Christi, Explores Solar Project with San Miguel Co-op Near San Antonio
Sage Geosystems is partnering with the DoD to test geothermal energy at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi and is also planning a solar and storage project in Texas.
Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest Recalls 80,000 Pounds of Kirkland Signature Butter from Costco in Texas for Undisclosed Milk Allergen
Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest has recalled about 80,000 pounds of Kirkland Signature butter from Costco for lacking an allergen warning for milk, despite milk being stated in the ingredients.
Satirical Twist of Fate: The Onion Triumphs in Infowars Auction Amidst Judicial Review and Sandy Hook Family Support
The Onion won the bid for Infowars at a bankruptcy auction, but the sale is temporarily halted due to judicial concerns about the process. The Onion plans to revamp Infowars into a parody site.
Record-Breaking Cyber Monday Frenzy Expected to Hit $13.2 Billion with Amazon Leading the Charge in Richmond
This article discusses the expected rise in Cyber Monday sales to $13.2 billion, Amazon's preparedness with its fulfillment center operations, and the impact on small businesses using Amazon's services.
23 Years Post-Scandal, Enron Teases Controversial Comeback in Houston, Sparking Speculation and Skepticism
Signs suggest that Enron might be making a comeback, stirring both curiosity and skepticism among Houston locals, as ads and a relaunched website emerge 23 years after the company's scandalous collapse.
Texas Topped the Nation in Financial Distress, WalletHub Study Reveals; Houston, Dallas, San Antonio Among Hardest Hit Cities
WalletHub's report named Texas the most financially distressed state in the U.S., citing low average credit scores and high bankruptcy rates, with 13 Texas cities among the top 100 most financially distressed.
Fort Lauderdale-Based MARA Holdings Set to Acquire 114-Megawatt Texas Wind Farm for Sustainable Bitcoin Mining
MARA Holdings Inc. is set to acquire a 114-MW wind farm in Texas for Bitcoin mining, aiming to power operations sustainably, requiring regulatory approval, with plans to use renewable energy.
Nearly 44000 Holiday Light Controllers Recalled Over Fire Risk Sold at Target Walmart and Cracker Barrel
Nearly 44,000 wireless tree light controllers have been recalled due to fire risks, with reports of overheating and one fire incident. Sold at Target, Walmart, and Cracker Barrel, customers are advised to return them for a refund.
The RealReal Opens Sophisticated New Store in Houston's Montrose Collective, Expands Texas Presence
The RealReal opens a new store in Houston's Montrose Collective, marking its second outlet in Texas, offering luxury consignment services and aiming to cater to the local demand for pre-owned luxury goods.
Starbucks to Streamline Menu by 30% in Effort to Improve Service and Restore Brand Ethos
Starbucks is cutting its menu by 30% to improve service and recapture its original local coffee house feel. It will cut certain items, offer coffee/tea refills, reintroduce self-serve condiments, and prioritize in-store customers over mobile orders.
Survey Reveals 73% of Texans Support Casino Resorts, Majority Back Online Sports Betting Amid Legislative Hesitation
A survey shows 73% of Texans favor casino resorts and 60% support online sports betting, indicating a shift in public sentiment towards gambling expansion despite political resistance in the state.
H-E-B Kicks Off 12th Annual Quest for Texas Best, $100K Prize and Store Distribution On The Line
H-E-B seeks Texas-made products for its 12th Quest for Texas Best, with a $100,000 prize pool and a deadline of April 23 for entries, offering local producers the chance to get their items sold in stores.
Border Blitz, Texas Agents Bust $20M in Meth Disguised as Bottled Water in Roma, Following $5M Blueberry Sting in Pharr
U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized over $20 million in meth disguised as bottled water and blueberries in Texas, affecting cartel profits and potentially saving lives by intercepting the spread of drugs.
Young Texans Triumph at RodeoHouston, Record $1.4M Earned in Junior Market Steer Auction
Record bids were placed at RodeoHouston's Junior Market Steer Auction, with young Texans earning $1.4 million. Jacob Schickedanz's steer Kareem won Grand Champion, fetching $675,000, while Jett Hale's steer Mike set an auction record of $690,000.
Houston Texans Face Lawsuit Alleging Fraud and Price Manipulation from PSL Holders in Harris County
Nineteen PSL holders have sued the Houston Texans for fraud, conspiracy, and breaching contract, alleging unfair ticket pricing and market manipulation. They seek at least $1 million in damages for the team's conduct affecting fans.
Houston Braces for Impact as Trump Tariffs Set to Shake Global Markets, Affecting Retirement Savings and Big Brands
President Trump announced new tariffs affecting global markets and trade, with investors alarmed as stocks plunged, retirement savings at risk, and potential higher costs for consumers.
Gallery Furniture Announces Closure of Post Oak Showroom in Houston with 'Epic Blowout Sale'
Gallery Furniture's Post Oak showroom is closing after 16 years; McIngvale announced an "epic blowout sale" with discounts up to 70%. Two other locations remain open. McIngvale is known for philanthropy, including sheltering hurricane victims.
Houston Retail and Dining Scene Adjusts Hours for Easter 2025, Shoppers Anticipate Closures and Limited Services
In Houston, stores like Walmart and Trader Joe's are open for Easter 2025, while Target and Costco are closed. Fast-food chains vary in hours, and postal and bank services are affected by the holiday.
Houston Emerges as Top U.S. Goods Exporter in 2024 Despite National Trade Deficit Woes
Houston emerges as a top goods exporter in 2024 with $180.9 billion in exports, countering the US's record trade deficit of $140.5 billion. The city saw a significant increase in goods handled, despite national challenges due to tariffs.
Houston's Pappas Restaurants Set to Acquire Bankrupt On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina
Pappas Restaurants is set to acquire On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, aiming to enhance the chain post-bankruptcy. Pending court approval, the sale could finalize within weeks, expanding Pappas' national reach.
Kinder Foundation's $150M Donation Ignites Pioneering Pediatric Cancer Center in Houston
The Kinder Foundation donated $150 million to establish the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in Houston, a joint effort by Texas Children's Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Center focusing on pediatric cancer care.
Over $7 Million in Counterfeit Apple Chargers Seized by Customs Officials at Port of Houston/Galveston
U.S. Customs officials in Houston seized over $7 million in counterfeit iPhone chargers, totaling 373,000 units with Apple's trademark on the packaging. They underscored the economic harm and safety issues posed by such counterfeits.
Texas THC Industry Braces as Senate Bill 3 Threatens Economic and Social Fallout, Eyes on Governor Abbott's Decision
Texas Senate Bill 3, aiming to regulate THC products from hemp, has passed the House and Senate, threatening a substantial industry and sparking concern among business owners about economic and job impacts. Governor Abbott's decision is pending.
Houston Fireworks Vendors Warn of Price Surge Due to New Tariffs Ahead of Fourth of July Celebrations
New tariffs increase fireworks prices in Houston, but options for budget-conscious shoppers remain. Fireworks are legal outside city limits with safety restrictions; Houston Fire Department emphasizes safe usage to avoid accidents and fines.
Kemah's Trump Burger Locked in Legal Battle with Landlord Over Alleged Lease Breach and Unlawful Takeover
Trump Burger Kemah LLC is involved in a legal battle with their landlord Archie Patterson over alleged lease breaches and unpaid expenses, while also accusing Patterson of unlawfully taking over their restaurant.
Elon Musk Awarded $29 Billion in New Tesla Shares Despite Prior Court Ruling
Elon Musk has been awarded 96 million new Tesla shares, about a $29 billion value, in a move to secure his leadership and boost his voting power in the company. However, the payout has been criticized by some as ignoring prior Delaware court rulings.
Cracker Barrel Reinstates Classic Logo After Public Backlash and Trump's Criticism
Cracker Barrel returned to their classic logo after a failed redesign sparked backlash, including criticism from former President Trump. The original logo reflected the brand's southern identity which customers prefer, according to a YouGov survey.
End of an Era, Cyclone Anaya’s Tex-Mex Kitchen Bids Farewell to Houston's Tanglewood, Las Salsas Goes Silent in San Antonio
Cyclone Anaya’s Tex-Mex Kitchen closes its Tanglewood location after 20+ years, and Las Salsas in San Antonio's Monte Vista remains silent for months without explanation, reflecting changes in Texas' Tex-Mex dining scene.
Dublin's Primark to Make Houston Debut with New Store in Katy Mills
Primark is opening a new 31,600-square-foot store in Katy Mills, Houston, with a grand opening scheduled for November 20. It's part of a broader U.S. expansion, with another location in Willowbrook Mall and plans for 17 stores across the country.
Galveston to Welcome World's Largest Cruise Ship and Carnival Sunshine in 2027 Cruise Line Expansion
Carnival and Royal Caribbean are expanding their cruise offerings from Galveston, TX, with the Carnival Sunshine debuting in 2027 and Royal Caribbean launching trips on the world's largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas.
Houston Thanksgiving Dining Options Include Upscale Restaurants and 24-Hour Diners Open for 2025 Holiday
Houston's dining scene offers a variety of Thanksgiving options, including prix-fixe menus and classic foods. Retailers like Whole Foods and HEB have holiday hours, while others like Walmart and Costco remain closed.
Hobby Lobby Plots Big Meyerland Plaza Comeback in Southwest Houston
Permit filings show Hobby Lobby plans to renovate a 69,134‑square‑foot anchor at Meyerland Plaza, a move that would bring another national big‑box tenant to the Beechnut and Loop 610 corner. The work is tentatively slated for Aug. 2026–Mar. 2027.
Houston Shoppers, Know Your Christmas Eve and Day Store Hours, Some Retailers to Remain Open
Houston retailers have limited hours on December 24 and many are closed on Christmas Day. Some grocery stores, pharmacies, Waffle House, and Buc-ee's will remain open. Check individual store hours before visiting.
Verizon Chaos Unleashed, Major Cities Including New York and Chicago Hit by Massive Outage, Emergency Services Scramble
Verizon experienced a significant service outage affecting voice and data, particularly in the eastern U.S., impacting emergency services and prompting responses from T-Mobile, AT&T, and municipal authorities. Verizon is working on a fix.
Walmart and Wing Launch Drone Delivery Service in Houston, Promising 30-Minute Drop-Offs
Walmart, with Wing, launched a drone delivery service in Houston for goods such as groceries and medications, as reported by KHOU. Customers can check for eligibility online and expect deliveries as quickly as 30 minutes.
Houston Grocery Stores Adjust Hours Amid Winter Storm, H-E-B and Kroger Amend Operations for Public Safety
Houston grocery stores modify hours due to a winter storm, with H-E-B opening at 8 a.m. and maintaining regular closing times. Kroger and Walmart adjust their hours, advising customers to check locally.
Amazon Slashes 16,000 Jobs in Latest Workforce Reduction Amidst Broader Tech Sector Layoff Trend
Amazon has cut about 16,000 corporate jobs, marking its second layoff round in three months, aiming to simplify operations and focus on strategic areas, with impacted US workers given time to find new roles within the company or receive severance.
Schlitterbahn Galveston Unleashes Hiring Wave, Seeks 1,000 Summer Workers for 2026
Schlitterbahn Galveston is hiring about 1,000 seasonal and part‑time workers for its May 2, 2026 season opener. Applications are being handled through the park’s online portal and roles are open to applicants 15 and older.
Port Arthur Braces as Valero Lines Up Venezuelan Crude Gusher
Valero is lining up as much as 6.5 million barrels of Venezuelan crude for March runs, leaning on Port Arthur’s upgraded coker capacity and new U.S. licenses. Schedules and Treasury rules will determine how much actually lands on the Gulf Coast.
Houston Gas Player Axip Hits the Skids With Chapter 11 Shakeup
Axip Energy Services filed for Chapter 11 and has lined up a stalking‑horse buyer plus DIP financing as it runs a court‑supervised sale while keeping operations going. The move follows a squeeze in contracted work that the company says forced a sale process.
Kendra Scott Turns 12 South Into Cocktail Country With Yellow Rose Flagship
Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott opened a Nashville flagship Thursday, pairing western‑inspired retail with Beau's Bar, the brand's first cocktail lounge. The 12 South shop adds experiential touches like a hat atelier and Color Bar.
Houston Factory Heavyweights The 2026 List Quietly Running the City
A new Houston Business Journal ranking profiles 100 local manufacturers and highlights where big investments — from Daikin campuses to Eli Lilly’s $6.5B plant — are shifting jobs and neighborhoods. The list maps where training and infrastructure will matter most in 2026.
Weatherford Moves Legal Home To Texas, Tightens Ties To Houston Hub
Weatherford announced plans to move its legal domicile from Ireland to Texas, citing recent Texas corporate‑law and court changes and aligning with its Houston HQ. The move requires shareholder approval and is expected to complete in Q3 2026.
Mammoth Wire Hub Muscles Into Missouri City With 169,000-Sq-Ft Gulf Coast Gambit
Distributor Wire & Cable opened a 169,000-square-foot Missouri City hub to move specialty cable inventory closer to Gulf Coast energy and infrastructure projects. The center offers cut-to-length service and same-day pickup.
Houston Power Players Ride $142 Billion Energy Deal Stampede
Deloitte says U.S. power-and-utilities M&A jumped to nearly $142B in 2025 as data‑center demand and transmission limits push buyers toward connected gas and de‑risked renewables. Houston’s dense energy cluster puts it at the center of those deals.
