87.2 F
Houston
Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Home Blog Page 252

American Express Gold Card: A Comprehensive Guide to Rewards and Benefits

0

By: Michael Esparza

If you are looking for a credit card that rewards you for dining, travel, and everyday purchases, the American Express Gold card might be the perfect choice for you. The American Express Gold card is a premium card that offers a generous welcome bonus, flexible redemption options, and valuable benefits that can enhance your lifestyle. Here are some of the perks and benefits of the American Express Gold card:

Welcome Bonus
The American Express Gold card offers a sizable welcome bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new card within the first 6 months of card membership. This bonus is worth up to $600 when redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, or on Amazon.com, or even more when transferred to one of AmEx’s many travel partners.

Rewards Points
The American Express Gold card earns 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar when you dine at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1 point per dollar), 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express travel, and 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases. These are some of the highest earning rates among credit cards, especially for food-related purchases.

Dining Credit
The American Express Gold card also offers a $120 annual dining credit, which gives you up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you enroll and pay with your card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Milk Bar, Wine.com, and participating Shake Shack locations. This credit can help you save money on food delivery, restaurant meals, gourmet treats, and wine.

Uber Cash
Another benefit of the American Express Gold card is the $120 annual Uber Cash, which gives you $10 in Uber Cash per month when you add your card to your Uber account. You can use Uber Cash for U.S. Uber Eats orders or Uber rides. This benefit can help you enjoy convenient transportation and food delivery services.

Travel Benefits
The American Express Gold card also comes with several travel benefits that can make your trips more comfortable and rewarding. Some of these benefits are:

  • No foreign transaction fees: You won’t have to pay any extra fees when you use your card abroad.
  • $100 airline fee credit: You can get up to $100 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, charged by one selected qualifying airline¹.
  • Hotel Collection: When you book two or more consecutive nights at a participating hotel through American Express travel, you can get a $100 hotel credit to spend on qualifying dining, spa, and resort activities, and a room upgrade at check-in, when available.
  • Travel insurance: You can get coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, trip delay, baggage loss and damage, car rental loss and damage, and travel accident¹.
  • Global Assist Hotline: You can get access to 24/7 emergency assistance, such as medical, legal, and financial referrals when you travel more than 100 miles from home.

Other Benefits
The American Express Gold card also offers other benefits that can protect your purchases and enhance your membership experience. Some of these benefits are:

  • Purchase protection: You can get coverage for up to 90 days from the date of purchase if your eligible purchases are accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost.
  • Extended warranty: You can get an additional year of warranty on eligible purchases that have an original manufacturer’s warranty of 5 years or less.
  • Amex Offers: You can get access to exclusive discounts and bonus points at participating merchants when you add offers to your card.
  • Membership Rewards: You can enjoy the flexibility and variety of the Membership Rewards program, which allows you to redeem your points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, travel, and more. You can also transfer your points to one of AmEx’s many travel partners, such as airlines and hotels, to get more value and options for your points.
  • American Express App: You can manage your account, track your spending, pay your bills, and access digital tools, such as chat, fraud alerts, and Amex Offers, from your smartphone.

Is the American Express Gold Card Worth It?
The American Express Gold card is a great card for anyone who loves dining, travel, and everyday rewards. The card can easily pay for itself if you use the credits and benefits and redeem your points for travel. The card offers a generous welcome bonus, high earning rates, flexible redemption options, and valuable benefits that can easily offset the $250 annual fee. With certain restaurants and Uber giving you a total of $240 in credit, you’re essentially paying $10 for the card. If you can take full advantage of everything this card offers, you will experience the gold standard of credit card membership.

If you’re interested in applying for the American Express Gold card, visit
https://americanexpress.com/en-us/referral/MICHAEQEOp?xl=cp01 to apply for your card today!

Runners Triumph in Record-Setting 2024 Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon

0

A dynamic mix of elite athletes, everyday heroes, and inspirational runners gathered to showcase their resilience and determination at the 2024 Chevron Houston Marathon and the Aramco Houston Half Marathon. The bustling streets came alive at 7 a.m. on Sunday, January 14, with participants enduring cold temperatures to embark on an unforgettable racing experience.

The elite men’s category in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon witnessed a thrilling finish, with five athletes crossing the line within a seven-second window. Jemal Yimer emerged as the official winner, completing the race with an impressive time of 1:00:42.

Jemal Yimer, adorned with smiles, received an official belt buckle in recognition of his victory in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon.

The momentum continued with Sutume Kebede securing a record-setting time of 1:04:37 in the women’s half marathon, showcasing exceptional pacing skills amid the downtown Houston backdrop.

Weini Kelati, making her debut in Houston and her first-ever half marathon, clinched the fourth position among women while setting a remarkable USA record of 1:06:25.

Zouhair Talbi maintained the excitement by setting a record in the Chevron Houston Marathon, securing victory with a remarkable time of 2:06.

The women’s category of the Chevron Houston Marathon saw Rahma Tusa Chota emerging victorious with a time of 2:19:33, marking her first marathon triumph since 2018.

For those who missed the live coverage on ABC13 from 6:55 a.m. to 10 a.m., a replay is scheduled at 6 p.m. on Sunday. Viewers can catch up on any highlights or even spot themselves during the run by streaming ABC13.

The 2024 Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon proved to be a celebration of athletic prowess, determination, and record-breaking achievements, leaving a lasting imprint on the running community.

Fruit Stripe Gum to Be Discontinued After Decades of Sweet Memories

0

The beloved gum brand Fruit Stripe, known for its vibrant fruit-inspired flavors and distinctive zebra-print packaging, is bidding farewell to store shelves. Ferrara, the owner of Fruit Stripe, announced the discontinuation of this iconic treat, marking the end of a flavorful era.

A spokesperson for Ferrara conveyed the weight behind the decision, stating, “The decision to sunset this product was not taken lightly.” The company considered various factors, including consumer preferences, purchasing patterns, and overall brand trends for Fruit Stripe Gum, before arriving at this significant conclusion.

Fruit Stripe Gum has been a staple since the 1960s, offering enthusiasts a burst of flavor with options like Wet n’ Wild Melon, Cherry, Lemon, Orange, and Peach. Each pack of this nostalgic gum included a bonus feature – a temporary tattoo featuring the brand’s mascot, Yipes the Zebra.

Ferrara, recognized for its diverse candy portfolio that includes popular brands such as Trolli, Fun Dip, Pixy Stix, and Nerds, expressed that discontinuing Fruit Stripe was a “difficult decision.” The move comes as part of a strategic assessment of the brand’s trajectory and evolving consumer preferences.

For those still yearning to savor the taste of Fruit Stripe Gum, Ferrara mentioned that remaining stock might be available in select retailers nationwide for a limited time. This provides a last chance for loyal fans to grab a piece of this cherished gum before it disappears from the market.

As the iconic zebra-striped packaging takes its final bow, fans are left with fond memories and the opportunity to secure a piece of nostalgia one last time from retailers who may still carry this classic treat.

Get Ready to Applaud: 75th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Return with Star-Studded Celebration

Television enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The grandeur of the Emmy Awards is set to illuminate screens on January 15, 2024, celebrating the outstanding contributions of writers, directors, actors, and craftspeople who captivated audiences worldwide throughout the past year.

This year’s biggest night in television falls on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, adding significance to the 75th-anniversary edition of the prestigious awards. Anthony Anderson will take center stage as the host for the live ceremony, promising an evening filled with entertainment and accolades.

Originally scheduled for September 2023, the 75th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards faced a postponement due to the Hollywood strikes. The Television Academy and FOX jointly announced the rescheduled January 2024 date in August 2023, with nominations unveiled in July of the same year.

Among the standout contenders, “Succession” leads the pack with an impressive 27 nominations. Other notable mentions include “The Last of Us,” “The White Lotus,” and “Ted Lasso,” each garnering multiple nods.

The live broadcast from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, January 15. As viewers prepare for the star-studded event, they can catch the ceremony live on the Fox network. Additionally, Hulu will offer a streaming option for those eager to relive the highlights on January 16, 2024.

For enthusiasts eager to witness the glitz and glamour of the red carpet, there are multiple avenues to indulge in the star arrivals. “PEOPLE & Entertainment Weekly Red Carpet Live: 75th Emmy Awards,” hosted by Jeremy Parsons and Janine Rubenstein, will commence streaming on January 15 at 6:00 p.m. ET on People.com, EW.com, PEOPLE and EW’s YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter pages.

E! is set to amplify the pre-awards excitement with two specials, “Live From E!: Countdown to the Emmys” and “EMMYS Live from E!,” hosted by Laverne Cox. The former begins at 5:00 p.m. ET on January 15, while the latter, focused on style and fashion coverage, starts at 6:00 p.m. ET on the network.

So, whether you’re tuning in for the awards ceremony, streaming the event, or catching the red carpet moments, the 75th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards promise an unforgettable night of celebration and recognition.

Houston Braces for Sub-Freezing Temperatures: NWS Issues Hard Freeze Watch, Urges Residents to Protect Property

0

New updates from the National Weather Service (NWS) have issued a chilling forecast for Houston and its surrounding areas, warning of sub-freezing temperatures as low as 18 degrees Fahrenheit expected from late Monday night through Wednesday morning. An alert released at 9:07 a.m. on Sunday highlights that parts of south Central and Southeast Texas are now under a hard freeze watch, prompting residents to take precautionary measures to safeguard crops and property from potential freeze damage.

The NWS advises residents to act promptly in protecting tender plants from the impending cold. To mitigate the risk of freezing and potential bursting of outdoor water pipes, precautionary steps such as wrapping, draining, or allowing a slow drip are recommended. However, Houston Public Works is urging residents not to employ faucet dripping if their water source is from a pumping station, a condition applicable to nearly everyone in the city.

In addition to the freezing temperatures, a winter weather advisory issued at 3:30 a.m. warns that Houston and neighboring cities may experience mixed precipitation and ice accumulation from 6 p.m. on Sunday to 6 p.m. on Monday. NWS officials caution residents in the affected areas to prepare for possible power outages and challenging driving conditions. A Wind Chill Advisory is also in effect, as noted in a tweet from NWS Houston, accompanied by a forecast map.

The Energy Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has taken to social media to remind Texans of its own weather watch, effective from Sunday through Wednesday. Described as the lowest level of grid condition notices within the Texas Advisory and Notification System (TXANS), a weather watch indicates that “the grid is operating normally, with supply and demand balanced, but reserves are dropping,” according to ERCOT. Citizens can stay informed about real-time grid conditions at ercot.com and sign up for TXANS updates to receive timely information as the situation unfolds.

Ravens, Chiefs, or Bills? Texans in Limbo as AFC Playoff Scenarios Unfold

0

The Houston Texans clinched a resounding 45-14 victory against the Cleveland Browns, marking their first playoff win in four seasons. Despite the triumph, their path forward remains uncertain as they eagerly anticipate Monday’s matchup to determine their next opponent.

As the No. 4 seed in the AFC, the Texans face the suspense of waiting until Monday to discover their fate. The Baltimore Ravens, holding the coveted No. 1 seed, are guaranteed to face the lowest-remaining seed in the upcoming week. The Kansas City Chiefs, seeded third, secured their advancement with a notable win against the Miami Dolphins.

The playoff landscape hinges on the outcome of the game between the No. 2 seed Buffalo Bills and the seventh-seeded Pittsburgh Steelers, initially scheduled for Sunday but postponed by a day due to adverse weather conditions.

The scenarios for the Texans’ next move are as follows:

  1. At Ravens: If the Buffalo Bills emerge victorious against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
  2. At Chiefs: In the event of a Pittsburgh Steelers win over the Buffalo Bills.

The Texans’ impressive triumph against the Browns sets the stage for an exciting playoff journey, and fans eagerly await the unfolding drama as the playoff picture becomes clearer on Monday.

Stay tuned for updates on the Texans’ playoff journey and their next formidable opponent.

Which Type of Personal Credit Card is Right for You?

0

By: Michael Esparza

There are many types of personal credit cards, each with different features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of personal credit cards:

Rewards credit cards: These cards let you earn points, miles, or cash back on your purchases. You can redeem your rewards for various things, such as travel, merchandise, gift cards, or statement credits. Some rewards cards have specific categories that earn more rewards, such as dining, travel, or groceries. Others have a flat rate of rewards for all purchases.

Travel credit cards: These are a type of rewards card that focuses on travel-related benefits. Travel credit cards often offer sign-up bonuses, travel credits, airport lounge access, or other perks for frequent travelers. You can also earn and redeem points or miles for flights, hotels, car rentals, or other travel expenses. Some travel credit cards have no foreign transaction fees, which can save you money when you use your card abroad.

Cash back credit cards: These are a type of rewards card that gives you cash back on your purchases. Cash-back credit cards usually have a simple and straightforward rewards system. You can either get a fixed percentage of cash back on all purchases, or a higher percentage on certain categories that rotate every quarter. You can redeem your cash back as a statement credit, a direct deposit, or a gift card.

Starter credit cards: These are cards that are designed for people who have little or no credit history. Starter credit cards can help you build or improve your credit score by reporting your payment history to the credit bureaus. There are three main types of starter credit cards: secured, unsecured, and student. Secured cards require a security deposit that acts as your credit limit. Unsecured cards do not require a deposit but may have higher interest rates or fees. Student cards are for college students who want to establish their credit while earning rewards or other benefits.

Student credit cards: Student credit cards are designed for students who are just starting to
build their credit history. They typically have lower credit limits and interest rates than other
types of credit cards.

Store credit cards: Store credit cards can be used to make purchases at a specific store or group
of stores. They often offer discounts or rewards on purchases made at the store.

These are some of the most common types of personal credit cards, but there are also other types that may suit your needs better. For example, there are premium credit cards that offer luxury benefits and services, balance transfer credit cards that let you move your debt from one card to another with a lower interest rate, co-branded credit cards that partner with specific brands or retailers, and store credit cards that offer discounts or rewards at specific stores.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a personal credit card:

  • Annual fee: Some credit cards have an annual fee, while others do not. If you choose a credit card with an annual fee, make sure that the benefits of the card outweigh the cost of the fee.
  • Interest rate: The interest rate is the amount of interest you will be charged on any unpaid balance. If you carry a balance on your credit card, it is important to choose a card with a low-interest rate.
  • Rewards program: If you are interested in earning rewards, make sure to compare the rewards programs of different credit cards. Some cards offer better rewards than others, depending on your spending habits.
  • Other benefits: Many credit cards offer additional benefits, such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranties. Consider which benefits are important to you when choosing a credit card.

Before you apply for any type of personal credit card, you should compare the features and benefits of different options and choose the one that matches your spending habits and financial goals. You should also check your credit score and report to see if you qualify for the card, you want and to avoid any errors or fraud. Finally, you should always use your personal credit card responsibly by paying your bills on time and in full every month, keeping your balance low, and avoiding unnecessary fees or interest charges.

Historic Joint Primary Election Announced for Harris County

0

In a groundbreaking move, Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth revealed today that Texas’ largest county will witness a joint primary election hosted by the Republican and Democratic Parties during the upcoming March 5, 2024, primary election cycle. This collaborative effort signifies a departure from the traditional practice of holding separate primary elections for each party.

“Conducting a Joint Primary will be a first in the history of Harris County,” said Clerk Hudspeth, the County’s Chief Election Official. “I commend the Chairs of each party and their executive committees for their due diligence in arriving at an accord that addresses the challenges presented by new legislation and best serves Republican and Democratic Primary voters.”

Under this agreement, both political parties will share common precincts, allowing voters from both sides of the aisle to cast their ballots on Election Day using the same voting equipment. Clerk Hudspeth, the Chief Election Official for the county, lauded the Chairs of each party and their executive committees for their diligent efforts in reaching this accord. She emphasized the historic nature of this decision, marking the first-ever joint primary election in the history of Harris County.

The impetus behind this joint endeavor stems from the challenges posed by Senate Bill 924, enacted during the 2023 Legislative session. The legislation mandates that voting precincts cannot be combined during primary elections, necessitating the opening of numerous polling locations. The logistical constraints, coupled with a shortage of resources, made it increasingly difficult for the parties to conduct separate primary elections.

Clerk Hudspeth reassured voters that the joint primary process would be familiar to both Democratic and Republican primary voters. This approach mirrors the voting process employed during early voting in previous primary elections and aligns with the Election Day voting process used in November elections.

In Texas, primary elections occur on the first Tuesday in March during even-numbered years, playing a crucial role in determining each political party’s nominees for the subsequent November general election.

Approval for this joint election agreement requires endorsement from the county chairs of participating parties, the county elections officer, and ultimately, the governing authority of the County via resolution.

For additional election-related information, interested individuals can visit www.HarrisVotes.com or contact 713-755-6965. To stay updated with the latest news, follow the County Clerk’s Office on social media at @HarrisVotes and @HarrisCoTxClerk.

What Type of Business Credit Card is Right for You?

0

By: Michael Esparza

Business credit cards are cards that are designed for business owners or entrepreneurs who want to separate their personal and business expenses, earn rewards or cash back on their purchases, and access other benefits and features that can help them manage their cash flow and grow their business. There are different types of business credit cards, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types of business credit cards:

Cash back business credit cards: These cards let you earn a percentage of cash back on your purchases, which can be redeemed as a statement credit, a direct deposit, or a gift card. Cash-back business credit cards can have a flat rate of cash back for all purchases, or a tiered or rotating system that offers higher cash back on certain categories, such as office supplies, gas, or travel. Some cash-back business credit cards may offer a sign-up bonus or an introductory 0% APR period.

Rewards business credit cards: These cards let you earn points or miles on your purchases, which can be redeemed for various rewards, such as travel, merchandise, gift cards, or statement credits. Rewards business credit cards can have a general rewards program that offers flexible redemption options, or a co-branded rewards program that partners with a specific airline, hotel, or retailer. Some rewards business credit cards may also offer perks such as travel credits, airport lounge
access, free checked bags, or discounts on partner purchases.

Secured business credit cards: These cards require a security deposit that acts as your credit limit. Secured business credit cards can help you build or improve your business credit score by reporting your payment history to the credit bureaus. Secured business credit cards may have lower interest rates and fees than unsecured business credit cards but may not offer any rewards or benefits. Some secured business credit cards may also offer the opportunity to graduate to an unsecured card after a period of responsible use.

0% APR business credit cards: These cards offer an introductory 0% APR period on purchases and/or balance transfers for a certain number of months. 0% APR business credit cards can help you finance large purchases or pay off existing debt without paying any interest charges. However, you should be aware of the regular APR that will apply after the introductory period ends, and the balance transfer fee that may apply if you transfer a balance from another card. You should also avoid carrying a balance beyond the 0% APR period, as it can hurt your credit score and incur interest charges.

You might be surprised to learn that you don’t need a formal business to apply for a business credit card. In fact, many people who work as freelancers, independent contractors, or side hustlers can qualify for a business credit card based on their self-employed income. To apply for a business credit card without a business, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Research and choose the right card: Compare annual fees, interest rates, rewards programs, and other benefits to find the card that best suits your business needs.
  2. Gather necessary documentation: You will need to provide some information about yourself and your business, such as your name, address, phone number, email, Social Security number, estimated annual income, and estimated monthly spending.
  3. Fill out the application form: You can apply online or by phone for most business credit cards. You will need to enter your personal and business information, as well as agree to the terms and conditions of the card.
  4. Wait for approval: Depending on the card issuer and your credit history, you may get approved instantly or within a few days. Some card issuers may ask you to mail in additional documents for verification, such as tax returns or bank statements.

As you can see, applying for a business credit card without a business is not as difficult as you might think. However, you should be aware of some things before you apply:

Your personal credit may be affected: Since your name and Social Security number are on the card application, the credit check and new account may show up on your personal credit report. This can affect your credit score and your ability to qualify for other loans or credit cards.

You are personally liable for the debt: Unlike some corporate cards that are backed by the
company’s assets, most business credit cards hold you personally responsible for paying off the
balance. This means that if you default on your payments, the card issuer can sue you or garnish
your wages.

You should use the card responsibly: To avoid getting into debt or damaging your credit score, you should always pay your bills on time and in full every month, keep your balance low, and avoid
unnecessary fees or interest charges. You should also track your spending and keep receipts for tax purposes.

Before you apply for any type of business credit card, you should compare the features and benefits of different options and choose the one that matches your spending habits and financial goals. You should also check your business credit score and report to see if you qualify for the card you want and to avoid any errors or fraud. Finally, you should always use your business credit card
responsibly by paying your bills on time and in full every month, keeping your balance low, and avoiding unnecessary fees or interest charges.

Houston Texans Gear Up for Postseason Clash with Cleveland Browns After Securing AFC Wild Card Spot

0

The Texans are set to play a postseason game on Saturday, marking their return to the playoffs since the 2019 season. The Texans will host the Cleveland Browns in an AFC Wild Card game at 3:30 p.m., showcasing a renewed sense of competitiveness.

The trio of players, left tackle Laremy Tunsil, long snapper Jon Weeks, and kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn, remain the only members of the Texans who participated in the team’s last playoff game in 2019. Their experience will be crucial as the team seeks to navigate the postseason challenge.

The spotlight, however, is on the marquee figures of the Texans’ current roster, particularly the rookies who have played pivotal roles in the team’s 10-7 season and AFC South Division championship. DeMeco Ryans, in his first year as head coach, has led the team with remarkable success. Accompanying him are rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud and rookie defensive lineman Will Anderson Junior, forming a dynamic trio that has captured attention throughout the season.

Notably, Stroud and Ryans have achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first rookie head coach and rookie quarterback combination to lead a team to the NFL playoffs since Andrew Luck and Chuck Pagano accomplished the same with the Colts in 2012.

The Texans, who faced significant challenges last season with just three wins, clinched their playoff berth by defeating the Colts 23-19 in a crucial game last week. Jacksonville’s loss to Tennessee on Sunday further solidified the Texans’ position as AFC South champions.

Looking ahead, a victory against the Cleveland Browns would propel the Texans into the AFC Divisional Playoffs next weekend. The unique aspect of the NFL playoffs, where teams are re-seeded, adds an element of uncertainty regarding the Texans’ potential opponents in the next round. The destination for the next game, whether it be in Baltimore, Buffalo, Kansas City, or a home game against Miami, hinges on the outcome of the Wild Card games across the league.

Texans fans and football enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate the team’s performance in this postseason showdown, as the franchise seeks to make a strong statement and advance further in the pursuit of championship glory.