SNAP junk-food purchase restrictions take effect Jan. 1 in five states, others to follow in 2026 — see where

The new year brings new restrictions on food purchases by SNAP recipients. On Jan. 1, five states are banning SNAP recipients from using their taxpayer-funded food assistance benefit to purchase junk food.

First Day Hikes scheduled at Texas state parks to welcome 2026

Texas Parks and Wildlife offers Texans an opportunity to start 2026 off with First Day Hikes at a Texas state park.

Hyatt to pay $1.25M to settle Texas lawsuit over hidden "Junk Fees"

Hyatt settled a lawsuit for $1.25 million for hiding fees while marketing hotel rooms at prices that were not as advertised.

Dry January: Where to get non-alcoholic drinks around Houston

If you're participating in Dry January for 2026, there are several Houston bars that have you set with mocktails and other non-alcoholic drinks to try.

Outback Steakhouse sued after toilet shatters, injures man

A Florida man has filed a lawsuit against Outback Steakhouse, alleging he suffered severe injuries after a handicapped toilet seat suddenly shattered and collapsed beneath him.

Why cheaper beef prices are still a long way off

It's going to be a while before consumers see any relief when it comes to beef prices.

2026 travel trends: What will Americans do next year?

From hosting the World Cup to celebrating our 250th anniversary, Americans have lots to travel for in 2026. Here’s a look at some of the trips already trending for the new year.

2 teens shot at short-term rental party in Houston
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Houston police are investigating a shooting at a short-term rental party that left two teenagers hospitalized late Saturday night.

These carmakers had the most recalls in 2025

More than 24.4 million vehicles were recalled by the nation’s largest automakers in 2025. See if your car made the list.

New study ranks the nation's top airports for traveler amenities, see the list

When it comes to flying, airports across the U.S. have a variety of shops, restaurants, and lounges for travelers to enjoy.  A new study ranked the top airports where fliers can enjoy a luxurious pre-flight experience.

Ford shatters decade-old recall record with 152 safety alerts issued this year alone across multiple models

Ford Motor Company logged far more recalls in 2025 than any other automaker, according to federal safety data, eclipsing a decade-old industry record and underscoring ongoing quality issues affecting millions of vehicles across multiple model lines.

2026: Things that happened 120 years ago

In 2026, the United States marks the 120-year anniversaries of several major events that shaped the nation’s history, innovation, and culture.

Here's when you can visit US national parks for free in 2026

The National Park Service has rolled out a new slate of free-admission days, giving travelers several chances throughout the year to explore iconic parks without paying an entrance fee.

Powerball's $1.7B jackpot could make Christmas Eve unforgettable

Does it seem like lottery jackpots get bigger than they used to? It’s true - the odds are tougher now after a systematic change. But one lucky player could still have an unforgettable Christmas Eve.

'Significant amount of food' dumped ahead of Houston Super Feast

The club says this jeopardizes their goal to feed over 30,000 people on Wednesday. They're now turning to Houstonians for help.

Instacart ending price test program after backlash

Instacart is ending a program where customers saw different prices for the same product ordered at the same time from the same store. Here’s what they’re saying about the price testing strategy.