Browsing: News that Matters to HOU

Marketplace Facts vs. Fiction: A Clear Guide to Your 2026 Coverage

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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.

The Sticky Trap: How the Gift Card Barcode Scam is Hitting Houston Stores

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Criminals prefer Houston because of the sheer volume of transactions. In a busy store during the December rush, cashiers move through lines as quickly as possible. They rarely have the time to inspect every individual card for a sticker or a slightly raised edge. Scammers exploit this speed, knowing that the ‘human element’ is the weakest link in the retail chain. While the technology behind the barcode is simple, the psychological timing is precise; thieves rely on the chaos of a Houston holiday crowd to mask their physical tampering.

Holiday Blues: Why It Happens and Helpful Tips on How Houstonians Can Get Through the Season

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You might be dealing with the “holiday blues,” a common mood dip that can pop up when routines change, expectations rise, budgets tighten, and family dynamics (or grief) get stirred up. For some people, it’s the first holiday without someone they love. For others, it’s feeling far from home, overwhelmed by packed calendars, or quietly burned out while everyone else looks like they’re thriving.

A Heartfelt Thank You and Tribute to Dave Ward, Houston’s Legendary ABC13 Anchor

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Houston has lost one of its most iconic voices. Dave Ward, the legendary ABC13 (KTRK) anchor, died Saturday, December 13, 2025, at age 86 after a career that spanned more than five decades. Known for his steady presence, sharp storytelling, and signature greeting, “Good evening, friends,” Ward helped shape how generations of Houstonians experienced the news.

He joined KTRK in 1966 as the station’s sole on-the-street reporter and photographer, then became the main anchor of Eyewitness News in 1968. He held that role with integrity and warmth until his retirement in 2017, earning recognition for one of the longest tenures by a TV news anchor at the same station in the same market. For Houston, Dave Ward wasn’t just a familiar face, he was a trusted part of the city’s daily life.