Good ways to put your tax refund to use
Congratulations for getting your taxes done and filed. If you’re in line for a refund — or already have received one — you’re in good company. A majority of US filers typically do get money back. And this year is no exception.
American Airlines, last of the major carriers, is adding free Wi-Fi
American Airlines will soon offer free Wi-Fi on most of its flights, becoming the latest major carrier to add the perk.
Chili’s trolls McDonald’s with its new quarter pounder burger
Chili’s is ratcheting up its fight against fast food rivals with a new cheeseburger that might make McDonald’s call their lawyers.
Starbucks is updating its dress code for baristas
Starbucks is updating its uniform policy, emphasizing the appearance of its recognizable “green aprons” as part of CEO Brian Niccol’s broader plans to revive the slumping brand.
Boeing shares fall on report that China has halted its deliveries as part of trade war
Shares of Boeing fell Tuesday following a report that China has halted the delivery of all its jets to airlines in the country as part of an escalating trade war that has enveloped the world’s two biggest economies.
Tariffs on toilet paper? Europe threatens tit-for-tat levies on a range of US goods if trade talks fail
The European Union has announced it will impose retaliatory tariffs on American toilet paper, soybeans, eye makeup and hundreds of other products if trade negotiations with the United States aren’t successful.
Democracy Delivered: Harris County Voters Applaud 2024 Election Experience
Two-thirds of voters say “excellent” — and a bipartisan majority agree: Harris County got it right.
In an era where trust in democracy is too often under siege, Harris County just earned a standing ovation from its citizens. According to a new study by the Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center at Texas Southern University, two-thirds (65%) of Harris County voters rated their November 2024 voting experience as “excellent”, with another 30% saying it was “good.”
Campus Chronicles - April 16, 2025
Keep Up with what is going on in Aldine ISD, Klein ISD, Fort Bend ISD, and Pasadena ISD.
Maury Povich Gets Real: A Powerful Conversation on Revenge, Regret, and Redemption with Pinky Cole
In a rare and deeply revealing conversation, legendary talk show icon Maury Povich steps out from behind the curtain of his on-screen persona and straight into raw vulnerability — and it all unfolds in his unforgettable sit-down with plant-based entrepreneur and Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole on the latest episode of On Par with Maury Povich.
Honoring a Champion: Houston Celebrates the Life and Legacy of George Foreman with Heartfelt Memorial
In a moving tribute befitting a global icon, the City of Houston and Mayor John Whitmire joined the family, friends, and fans of the legendary George Edward Foreman to honor his extraordinary life as a two-time Heavyweight Champion, devoted father, and tireless philanthropist. Held at the elegant Wortham Theater Center, the invitation-only memorial service radiated with love, pride, and deep gratitude for a man who punched through every obstacle to become one of the most beloved figures in American history.
Rooted in Service: Rick Garcia Champions Fort Bend ISD’s Future
In a school district where community roots run deep, Fort Bend ISD School Board Vice President Rick Garcia is not just running for re-election — he’s reaffirming a mission of service, equity, and visionary leadership for the 80,000+ students and 11,000 employees who call the district home.
ESSENCE Festival of Culture® 2025: A 55-Year Legacy of Black Excellence Returns to New Orleans for an Unforgettable Celebration
For more than half a century, ESSENCE Magazine has served as the heartbeat of Black culture — amplifying stories, celebrating achievements, and shaping conversations that reflect the richness and resilience of the Black community. In 2025, that spirit takes center stage once again as the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® returns to its forever home, New Orleans, for another iconic Independence Day weekend celebration.
Reliant Launches Smarter Home Bundle, Enhances Grid Reliability
As Houston residents prepare for another sweltering summer, Reliant Energy has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to help Texans stay cool, secure, and energy-efficient. The new Smarter Home Bundle, launched in partnership with Vivint, offers qualifying Reliant customers a complimentary Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro and Smart Thermostat, complete with professional installation. This innovative offering aims to simplify home energy management while enhancing grid reliability across the state.
Houston Native Master Chief Long Lam Charts a Course for Success Aboard USS Abraham Lincoln
From the vibrant streets of Houston to the commanding decks of one of America’s most formidable naval assets, Master Chief Petty Officer Long Lam has charted a remarkable journey of service, sacrifice, and success aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).
Houston’s Own Eric Holy Stands Ready: USS Iwo Jima’s Close Quarters Combat Training Highlights American Excellence at Sea
Proudly representing Houston on the high seas, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Eric Holy is proving that hometown strength and dedication extend far beyond the Texas skyline. Currently assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Holy is sharpening his tactical edge by participating in advanced Close Quarters Combat (CQC) training—an essential part of life aboard one of the U.S. Navy's most versatile and mission-critical vessels.
The New “Great Dying” Deserves Our Attention and Action
My childhood growing up in Pacific Grove, California was blessed with the kind of exposure to and immersion in nature that all kids deserve. We played among towering redwood trees that seemed to reach all the way to heaven. We surfed at Asilomar Beach, and marveled at both how small we are in our place in nature yet how connected we all are. And, a privilege of living in Pacific Grove specifically, we got to witness the migration of western monarch butterflies.
NBA’s playoff picture set after thrilling end to regular season
The NBA’s Western Conference playoff picture is officially set following an action-packed Sunday that saw all 30 teams take the court for the regular season finale, with six teams vying for postseason berths.
Texas Renaissance Festival Kicks Off Its 2025 Season with a Majestic Launch Party at J-Bar-M Barbecue
Hear ye, hear ye! The spirit of the Renaissance is coming alive in the heart of Houston’s EaDo district as the Texas Renaissance Festival (TRF), the largest and most legendary Renaissance-themed event in the nation, officially launches its 2025 ticket sales with a spectacular kickoff celebration at J-Bar-M Barbecue on Tuesday, April 15, from 5 to 8 p.m.
BlackDoctor.org Ushers in a Bold New Era, Appoints Akinwole “Aki” Garrett as President & COO to Spearhead Growth and Innovation
In a powerful stride toward shaping the future of health and wellness for communities of color, BlackDoctor.org (BDO) — the nation’s premier health and wellness platform for Black families — has officially appointed Akinwole (Aki) Garrett, MBA as its new President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Garrett, a proven media visionary with nearly 20 years of executive leadership experience, is set to guide BDO through an exciting new chapter of expansion, innovation, and cultural impact.
Success in Business Presents: Pathways to Prime MWBE Procurement Forum and Empowerment Workshops
In Harris County, opportunity hasn’t always looked like us (minority women). For far too long, Minority-owned businesses—especially those led by women, more specifically Black women—have stood outside of billion-dollar rooms, knocking politely and being told to wait. But the Pathways to Prime MWBE Procurement Forum and Empowerment Workshops isn’t just another event—it’s a battering ram to those closed doors. And for the Black community, it’s a lifeline.
