Starbucks Corp. announced Wednesday it will phase out its Pick Up-only store format by 2026, impacting several Houston locations including branches at City Centre, Hillcroft, Rosenberg, and terminals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
The Pick Up stores, which serve only mobile and online orders and lack seating or restrooms, were designed to offer quick convenience but have drawn criticism for being overly transactional and impersonal.
During a recent earnings call, CEO Brian Niccol said the company plans to shift focus back to more traditional cafes that foster human connection. Some Pick Up locations will close outright, while others will be converted into regular Starbucks cafes.
Mobile ordering remains popular, accounting for nearly a third of Starbucks’ transactions, and will continue at all stores.
The company did not specify which Houston locations will close versus convert.
Texas has been ranked the second-best state for business in the United States, according to CNBC’s 2025 “America’s Top States for Business” report, trailing only North Carolina.
The report, released in mid-July, evaluates all 50 states across 10 categories using 135 metrics, with a maximum score of 2,500 points. Texas earned high marks in workforce quality, economic strength and innovation—placing first in workforce and second in both the economy and technology and innovation categories.
“Texas continues to lead the way in creating a climate that attracts investment, talent and opportunity,” CNBC noted in its summary of the rankings.
Despite the strong business credentials, Texas ranked near the bottom in other areas. It finished 49th in quality of life, receiving an “F” grade based on poor health care access, high crime rates, limited mental health services and restrictive reproductive health policies. The state scored only 72 out of a possible 265 points in that category.
Texas also placed 17th in business friendliness and 26th in infrastructure, signaling room for improvement in regulatory environment and physical development. The state ranked fifth for cost of doing business.
North Carolina retained the top spot for the second consecutive year, buoyed by strong showings in education, infrastructure and corporate relocation trends. Florida, Virginia and Ohio rounded out the top five.
Business Facilities magazine also named Texas the top state for overall business climate in a separate 2025 analysis, highlighting the state’s robust capital investment pipeline and low regulatory burden.
Although Texas’s economic strengths remain a major draw for companies and investors, the state’s low quality-of-life score could impact long-term recruitment and retention.
“Texas offers an unparalleled business environment, but there’s a clear trade-off for workers and families when it comes to access to health care and public safety,” CNBC’s analysts said.
CNBC’s rankings have become a closely watched indicator for corporate leaders, site selectors and state policymakers weighing business climate and workforce development.
Carlos Correa is heading back to the Houston Astros after a surprise trade from the Minnesota Twins, just ahead of Thursday’s MLB trade deadline. The deal, not yet officially announced, reunites the star infielder with the team where he launched his major league career and became a fan favorite.
A Beloved Astros Icon
Correa spent seven seasons with the Astros, helping lead the team to six playoff runs, three AL pennants, and the controversial 2017 World Series title. Drafted first overall in 2012 and named AL Rookie of the Year in 2015, he was a core part of Houston’s transformation into a baseball powerhouse.
Filling a Crucial Infield Gap
Although Correa has exclusively played shortstop during his 11-year career, he’s expected to slide over to third base in Houston. All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes is out indefinitely with a hamstring injury, and shortstop Jeremy Peña is nearing a return from the injured list.
A Clubhouse Leader Returns
Known for his charisma and leadership, Correa is expected to bring energy to an Astros squad that’s held on to first place in the AL West despite key injuries. He’ll reunite with close friend and longtime teammate Jose Altuve, who said he hopes “whatever happens is the best for him and for us.”
Twins Move On from Big Investment
Correa initially left Houston in 2022 after the team declined to meet his salary demands. He signed with the Twins on a three-year deal, then re-signed on a six-year, $200 million contract. However, injuries and underperformance have limited his impact. He’s dealt with recurring plantar fasciitis and posted a .704 OPS with seven home runs in 93 games this season.
Financial Factors Behind the Trade
With Correa’s massive contract now making up a larger share of the Twins’ payroll—especially after a drop in regional TV revenue—the team is facing tighter financial constraints. The Pohlad family has since put the club up for sale.
Correa’s homecoming could be just the boost the Astros need for another deep playoff run. Stay tuned to the top sports news with Que Onda Magazine.
In a historic appointment, Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock became the first Hispanic woman to chair the Board of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO). But as she toldQue Onda Magazine, it wasn’t until after her appointment that she fully realized what that moment meant to the community.
“It’s been a tremendous honor to serve in this role, and I take that responsibility very seriously—especially knowing how meaningful it is for the Hispanic community to see one of their own in this position.”
Leadership with Purpose
Brock was appointed in 2024 by Houston Mayor John Whitmire to lead METRO, which manages a $1.9 billion budget for transit across Greater Houston. Though she holds one of the city’s most powerful civic positions, her path was grounded in humility and consistency.
“There’s no main ingredient,” she said. “It’s putting one foot in front of the other and doing a good job.”
Brock said she encourages young people—especially interns she mentors—to treat every interaction as a stepping stone.
“Every interaction that you have with somebody, should be treated like a job interview.”
No Ordinary Day
As for what her day-to-day looks like, Brock admitted, “There’s no two days that look alike.”
“Every day is a new day. It’s a new challenge… We’re working every single day to provide a useful service to really understand what our customers need, which makes it not only challenging but also exciting.”
Taking the Lead on Climate and Access
METRO is in the process of upgrading 350 buses to improve performance and reduce emissions. The updates will address on-time reliability while also shifting to a cleaner fuel mix.
“It is really critical that we are making sure that our transit-dependent folks are getting to work on time,” she said. “But we also need to make sure that that fuel mix is eco-friendly.”
One innovation she’s especially proud of is the Community Connector: an all-electric, on-demand microtransit program currently operating in pilot zones like Second and Third Ward, Near Northside, and the Heights.
“We want to make sure that what’s coming out of the tailpipe is clean. It’s not enough to do something good if it’s also contributing to poor emissions.”
The program allows residents to book shared rides within a 3- to 5-mile radius—providing better access to essentials like work, school, doctor’s appointments, and groceries. Brock said one rider told METRO he never bought frozen foods before because they’d melt by the time he got home. Now, he can.
From Transit-Dependent to Transit by Choice
Brock emphasized that improving the system—not blaming the public—is key to increasing ridership.
“We want METRO to be the preferred mode of transportation as opposed to somebody being transit dependent,” she said. “We believe that when you provide a superior service, people will choose you.”
She noted that some still opt to pay $50–$60 to park downtown rather than ride METRO—something she aims to change through convenience, reliability, and cleanliness.
A Safer Ride for All
Safety, both perceived and real, is a top concern. Under Brock’s leadership, METRO Police is now fully staffed and decentralized to be closer to high-crime areas. The agency has also added substations and mobile units to respond faster to hotspots.
“We’re getting our police out of their cars and onto the rail system and onto the buses so that there is more safety.”
METRO is also improving lighting, upgrading cameras, and replacing plexiglass with mesh at bus stops to reduce heat.
Another effort underway is a partnership with the City of Houston and Mayor Whitmire’s homelessness initiative.
“We want to make sure that we do it in a humane way… but we also are mindful that these bus shelters have a given purpose—and that’s for people to sit and wait for the bus.”
Rethinking Access and Experience
From sidewalks to shelters, Brock said improving infrastructure is essential to a positive rider experience. Technology plays a big part in that transformation.
“We live in a society where it’s one click away. If it’s more than one click, people abandon it.”
The goal is to simplify access with a unified app and expand features like Apple Pay, all while ensuring that METRO is intuitive for riders of all backgrounds.
Preparing for Global Events—and Everyday Travel
With Houston set to host FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, Brock said METRO is preparing to deliver a seamless transit experience to an international audience.
“We want to make sure that when they come here, they’re able to get around Houston the way they’re used to. Because Houston will be on display.”
Among the most celebrated services today is the direct route between Bush Intercontinental Airport and Downtown—just $4.50 for a 37-minute trip. Brock said plans are in place to expand similar service to Hobby Airport and the Galleria.
METRO is also rethinking its Park & Ride program. Brock sees potential in changing the surface lots into parking garages in growing suburbs where commuters are more likely to shift from cars to transit.
Fiscal Transparency and the Long Game
As a steward of nearly $2 billion in taxpayer funds, Brock stressed that every investment must align with one goal: increasing ridership.
“Everything we do must tie to ridership. So as we look at being cleaner, we look at being more safe, more accessible and our on-time performance—all of that will be directed towards ridership.”
Her vision for the future?
“That we move from being a transit-dependent culture to a transit that people choose to use.”
A Final Word to the Community
Before concluding the interview, Brock took a moment to acknowledge the role of Latino media in helping METRO reach its diverse ridership.
“Thank you to Que Onda for helping to be the vessel to share a message. Because without papers like Que Onda and without the media and your voice, we’re not able to get our message out. So I just really, really appreciate you taking the time and showing interest in what we’re doing. Because the work that we’re doing here is helping our people.”
NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission was set to launch Thursday at 11:09 a.m. CT from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. However, the liftoff was scrubbed due to unfavorable weather conditions, officials confirmed. A new launch is scheduled for tomorrow, although the weather seems less favorable.
Mission to Mark Historic Milestone
The Crew-11 mission is designed to coincide with a major moment in space history — the 25th anniversary of continuous human presence on the International Space Station, which will be celebrated on November 2.
International Crew Headed to ISS
Once launched, the crew — NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan’s Kimiya Yui, and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov — will relieve the Crew-10 team. This marks Cardman’s first flight and Platonov’s debut in space.
Busy Schedule of Science and Simulations
The team will carry out a full roster of tasks on the ISS, including experiments on 3D metal printing, testing light sail propulsion, and studying the effects of long-term spaceflight on the body and mind. They’ll also simulate moon landing procedures using virtual equipment.
Personal Items and a Smooth Transition
Each astronaut is bringing meaningful keepsakes, such as photos, children’s toys, and, in Fincke’s case, a traditional Indian gamosa. A short handover period with Crew-10 is expected, with that team returning as early as August 6.
One person has died and at least 22 others have fallen ill in a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak centered in the Harlem area of New York City, officials confirmed this week. The New York City Health Department began investigating the community cluster after cases began appearing last Friday.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. It spreads not from person to person but through inhaling small water droplets or vapor contaminated with the bacteria. Sources can include cooling towers, hot tubs, whirlpool spas, humidifiers, and large building plumbing systems.
Symptoms and Who’s at Risk
Health officials are urging anyone in the affected area who experiences flu-like symptoms — such as fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, or difficulty breathing — to seek immediate medical attention. Those at higher risk include:
Adults aged 50 and older
Smokers
People with chronic lung disease
Individuals with weakened immune systems
Health Officials Respond
“All operable cooling towers in the investigation area have been sampled,” the NYC Health Department said, adding that buildings with positive test results must begin water system remediation within 24 hours.
“Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early,” said Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Toni Eyssallenne. “New Yorkers at higher risk should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care quickly.”
A Disease with Historical Roots
The disease got its name from a deadly 1976 outbreak at an American Legion convention in Philadelphia. Since then, it has been linked to various water systems where Legionella bacteria can thrive.
Investigation Ongoing
As of Thursday, no details have been released about the person who died. Health officials continue to investigate the source of the outbreak and are closely monitoring the Harlem neighborhood and surrounding areas.
Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, one of the original founders of Houston’s Lakewood Church, has died at the age of 91. Her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, confirmed the news on social media Wednesday, honoring her as a guiding spiritual force and beloved leader within their congregation.
Peaceful Passing at Home
According to Pastor Osteen, Dodie passed away of natural causes in the comfort of her home.
“She was the beloved matriarch of Lakewood Church, an inspiration to millions of people around the world, and a faithful servant of God,” he shared.
It is with a heavy heart that Victoria and I, along with our family, announce the passing of our cherished mother and grandmother, Dolores “Dodie” Osteen. She was the beloved matriarch of Lakewood Church, an inspiration to millions of people around the world, and a faithful… pic.twitter.com/eZmImxzPaI
Dodie Osteen helped co-found Lakewood Church with her husband, John Osteen, in 1959. Over the decades, she became a cornerstone of the church’s spiritual mission, often sharing personal testimonies of healing and faith that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Funeral Arrangements Pending
At this time, no details regarding funeral services have been made public. The Osteen family has asked for privacy as they grieve the loss of their matriarch.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Rain chances will soon help ease our heat, but some storms Saturday could pack severe wind gusts. We’ve now declared an ABC13 Weather Watch for Saturday because of that potential for severe wind gusts when the storms arrive late Saturday.
While rain chances do return for Thursday and Friday, we are also still dealing with heat and ozone pollution. Ozone is a lung irritant that can trigger asthma attacks or a dry cough in sensitive individuals. It usually peaks between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
When ozone reaches “unhealthy” levels, the guidance from the EPA is as follows.
Sensitive groups: Do not do long or intense outdoor activities. Schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone is lower. Consider moving activities indoors. Sensitive groups include people with lung disease such as asthma, older adults, children and teenagers, and people who are active outdoors.
People with asthma: Follow your asthma action plan and keep quick-relief medicine handy.
Everyone else: Reduce long or intense outdoor activity. Take more breaks, do less intense activities. Schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone is lower.
We will monitor the pollution sensors for you and keep you updated during our live TV newscasts today.
We’ll have some clouds spread overhead from storms near the Texas-Louisiana border Thursday morning. With higher levels of moisture in the atmosphere during the afternoon, rain chances will climb to 30% and the heat index will peak closer to 105. The actual air temp will peak just shy of 100. Any storm that pops up in the afternoon heat could pack strong wind gusts over 50 mph, and an isolated severe thunderstorm cannot be ruled out. Similar weather is expected Friday.
What should I know about Saturday’s ABC13 Weather Watch?
Late Saturday we expect storm to erupt in the heat ahead of a weak summer front. The front will increase the coverage of storms higher than what we’ll get Thursday or Friday, and because of the potential for severe wind gusts with these storms, we wanted to give you an early heads up to pay close attention to the weather during the late afternoon and evening. If you have outdoor plans, make sure you have a sturdy place you could seek shelter in should you cross paths with one of those strong or severe storms.
Are more storms possible on Sunday?
Yes, but they won’t be as strong as what develops Sunday because the atmosphere will not get as hot. You chance of getting rain Sunday afternoon is at 40%.
What’s happening in the tropics?
All is quiet in the Atlantic basin for now, but we are seeing signs it may come to life by mid August. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific remains very active. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.
“In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor,” Harris said in a statement released Wednesday.
“I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.”
Focus Shifts Toward 2028 and National Role
While Harris didn’t reveal exactly what her next move will be, the decision may offer her greater flexibility to pursue a 2028 presidential run—a possibility she has yet to rule out.
She added, “I will share more details in the months ahead” about her plans.
A Broader Vision for Change
In her statement, Harris reflected on the state of politics in the country and the need for fresh approaches while staying true to core values.
“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service—service to their communities and to our nation,” she said. “At the same time, we must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis.
“As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking—committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook.”
Reflecting on Her Career and Public Service
Harris said she spent months thinking about how to best contribute to the Democratic Party following her loss in the 2024 presidential election. She reaffirmed her lifelong dedication to public service.
“I am a devout public servant, and from the earliest days of my career, I have believed that the best way I could make a difference in people’s lives and fight for a better future was to improve the system from within,” she said. “And it has been a profound honor to do that work and serve the people of California and our nation—as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President.”
Staying Politically Active
Though she won’t appear on the California ballot in 2026, Harris has continued engaging in national politics. She recently appeared virtually at a young voters summit and participated in an abortion rights advocacy event in June. She’s also fundraising for Democrats, including backing former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper’s U.S. Senate bid through the Harris Victory Fund, her joint committee with the Democratic National Committee.
Still in the Fight
Even without a formal campaign, Harris made it clear that she is not stepping away from the political arena.
She concluded, “I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans.”
