Derek Tice reflects on an eight-year journey in the health insurance industry, a path he began in 2018 looking for stability, but which ultimately provided a deep sense of purpose. Derek argues that in an increasingly complex healthcare landscape, the role of the agent has transitioned from “salesperson” to “essential advisor.

While the Houston skyline represents growth and industrial prowess, a quieter, more corrosive issue lingers in the shadows of its overpasses and rural county roads: illegal dumping. From the bayous of Harris County to the developing outskirts of Fort Bend, the unauthorized disposal of waste has shifted from a mere eyesore to a full-blown public health and legal crisis. As local governments ramp up enforcement in 2026, residents must navigate the thin line between convenience and a criminal record.

Human trafficking is often portrayed in film as a crime of physical abduction – clandestine kidnappings and locked basements. However, today’s reality is far more subtle and, in many ways, more dangerous.

The Day the Sky Fell in Houston Forty years ago, on January 28, 1986, the world stood still as the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds into flight.

In the Fall 2025 DOMEafterDOME capstone project, nineteen University of Houston architecture students reimagined the historic Astrodome not as a stagnant political relic, but as a site for 21st-century innovation. Supported by Amazon and The BASE Lab, the project challenged students to transform the “Eighth Wonder of the World” from an obsolete engineering marvel into a sustainable, functional landmark for the city’s future.

Houston is about to get hit with freezing temps, and your car isn’t ready yet. Oscar Duran shares his insights into “Cold Weather Survival Checklist” to protect your battery, your tires, and your wallet. Read these 10 essential tips before the freeze hits!

With a hard freeze and freezing rain headed for Houston, industry expert Alex from Aleska LLC is urging residents to prepare immediately. The core message is that prevention is cheaper than repair.

Adam founded EZ Lift Garage Doors and More with a focus on honesty and responsiveness. He entered the industry to provide homeowners with a stress-free alternative to typical service experiences, prioritizing clear communication and helping people understand their options before they make a decision.

In Texas, the push for non-collegiate career paths isn’t just a local initiative—it’s a top-tier state priority. Governor Greg Abbott has been a vocal proponent of the idea that a four-year degree is not the only ticket to the American Dream, famously stating that “A four-year college degree is not the right pathway for every student.” This article covers the Governor’s specific policy stances and recent legislative actions as of 2026.

At 1920 Houston Avenue, coffee is more than a morning ritual—it’s a precision craft. Master roaster Andres utilizes computer-graphed roasting techniques to move beyond the traditional ‘dark and bitter’ cup, instead highlighting the natural fruit and citrus notes of the bean. Whether you’re diving into the history of the Americano or enjoying the quiet, industrial-chic atmosphere of the First Ward, The Coffee Garden offers a sophisticated, ‘roaster-to-cup’ experience that is redefined with every pour.

The Americano: A wartime innovation. Born from the cultural collision of World War II, the Americano originated when homesick American GIs in Italy diluted potent espresso shots with hot water to mimic the comforting drip coffee of home. What began as a soldier’s compromise has evolved into a Houston staple, offering a perfect balance between the intensity of espresso and the lingering pace of a Bayou City morning.

Don’t let political headlines dictate your healthcare. This year, the ‘renewal’ notice in your mailbox might be more of a warning than a guarantee. Between disappearing COVID-era credits and shifting doctor networks, 2026 is the year to double-check your coverage before the January 15th deadline. Here is the truth behind the myths and how to actually keep your doctor in the new year.

In a city famously void of traditional zoning, Greater Houston’s HOAs have evolved into a powerful de facto local government, managing everything from neighborhood aesthetics to critical flood infrastructure. As we navigate the legislative shifts of 2026, understanding the new “Digital Sunlight” laws is no longer optional, it is the key to protecting your property value and your rights in the nation’s most sprawling suburban landscape.