Latest news with #HoustonLivestockShowandRodeo
Business Journals
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo boosts vocational scholarships to new record, addressing skilled-labor shortage
Houston's rapid growth has led to a shortage of skilled workers in various fields. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo aims to help address that shortage and provide opportunities for local students considering career paths beyond the traditional four-year college route.
The Sun
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Rarely seen 80s rock legend unrecognizable as he's spotted on day out in LA – 44 years after smash hit song
AN EIGHTIES music legend looked unrecognisable as he stepped out in Los Angeles. The singer-songwriter, 76, was the lead singer and frontman of an American group, best known for its 1981 hit Don't Stop Believin'. 6 6 Yet Steve Perry left fans doing a double take as he took a stroll in a baggy black logo top and shorts, paired with dark trainers. The Journey hitmaker was seen running errands with a paper bag tucked under his left arm. The California-born singer, who had two stints in the band known for hits Open Arms and Separate Ways, pulled on a pair of sunglasses as he made his way down the street. He appeared to be eager to go incognito, gazing down at the ground with a calm expression on his face as he walked with his new partner. Steve quit Journey for the second time back in 1998, due to personal reasons. At the time, he old SiriusXM station Trunk Nation: "The reason I left is because I was just truly burned out. "My love for music was getting really, really questionable within my heart, and I kind of had to stop. "There was no easy way to stop, leaving the mothership that I had so loved and worked so hard with the guys to build. "It was tough. I didn't tell nobody — I just kept working, and then all of a sudden, it just kind of hit the wall, and I said, 'I can't do this anymore." He also spoke out in 2017 when the band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame and simply said: "I am truly grateful that Journey is being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame." Seventies rock legends forced to cancel concert during hit song - months after ditching UK tour last minute The band currently consists of singer Arnel Pineda, guitarist Neal Schon, drummer Deen Castronovo, keyboardist and guitarist Jonathan Cain, bassist Todd Jensen and Jason Derlatka. TRICKY JOURNEY Steve's former band faced a sticky situation in March after they were forced to cancel a gig while performing one of their greatest hits. Journey were performing at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo when an 'electrical incident' occurred. The band were performing one of their biggest hits - Don't Stop Believin' - as the fifth song in their set. But suddenly, power on the stage went off, and initially the crowd continued to sing the lyrics of the 1981 smash hit. However, crew then took to the stage with fire extinguishers and soon after, a statement was released to the fans to reveal the rest of the concert had unfortunately been cancelled. The cancellation came months after Journey cancelled their 2024 UK tour at the last minute. But back in August, with members embroiled in a legal battle, the band gave no explanation as they put the decision down to "circumstances beyond their control". "Due to circumstances beyond the band's control, Journey's UK and Ireland tour is unfortunately cancelled. "Refunds will be made from your point of purchase." The 50th anniversary tour, which had already travelled across the U.S., was set to begin in Cardiff in October and travel to cities including Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham and London. 6 6 6
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Deep Dive Data Drop: Zelle® Unveils First-Ever Small Business Report - Here's What it Reveals
New data demonstrates how small business use of Zelle is growing, helping small businesses across the country do more, faster NEW YORK, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Main Street makes the American economy move, and Zelle® today released never-before published data that provides new insight into when, where, and how U.S. small businesses rely on the payment tool's unique features to help boost growth and unlock opportunities. The new data, released ahead of National Small Business Month in May, underscores the growing role Zelle plays in helping reduce uncertainty for America's Main Street economy: Almost seven million small businesses are enrolled to use Zelle and use of Zelle to pay small businesses has tripled in the past three years. Zelle also plays a meaningful role in the financial lives of an additional estimated 3-4 million individuals who use it to receive payments tied to independent or self-directed work. Zelle is most popular with small businesses in critical commercial markets across the country. In these areas, small businesses are getting paid with Zelle in ways as unique as the cities they're in — like surf lessons in Los Angeles, local souvenirs in Orlando, livestock grooming during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, or grabbing a hot dog from a cart in New York City. On average, small businesses received about $465 per transaction in 2024. Zelle is used by small businesses owners to send payments in key moments when speed and reliability matter most — like ensuring payroll is met and vendors are paid. In fact, the average payment sent by a small business was around $630 in 2024 — that's about the monthly cost of vendor space at the Ft. Myers Beach Market in Florida or a bi-weekly space at the Union Square Farmers Market in Massachusetts. What They're Saying: "Small businesses power the U.S. economy — and Zelle helps them thrive," said Denise Leonhard, general manager of Zelle. "By enabling fast, reliable payments, Zelle helps lower costs and builds confidence. It's a game-changer for how small businesses run and stimulate growth in local economies nationwide." "I've been using Zelle for about seven years to accept payments from clients on a weekly and monthly basis. I find it's pretty seamless—easier than some of the other services out there," said Michael B., who owns a dog walking service in New York. "It's just really easy to set up. Payments go right into my bank account. I don't have to go through a third party. I have access to the money immediately." Where Small Businesses Rely on Zelle1 Zelle is available from financial institutions in all 50 states — from South Carolina to Michigan, from New Hampshire to Iowa, and from Wisconsin to Nevada. In fact, 95% of the banks and credit unions that offer Zelle are community financial institutions — and according to a recent survey of Zelle users, 3 out of 5 small businesses say Zelle helps them build a deeper and more trusted relationship with their bank or credit union.2 Small businesses in economic centers across the country are also relying on Zelle to help them succeed. Below are the top areas of the country where small businesses are using Zelle: Los Angeles, Calif. Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Fla. New York, N.Y. Chicago, Ill. Houston, Texas Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas Atlanta, Ga. Washington, D.C. Phoenix, Ariz. Orlando, Fla. When Small Businesses Use Zelle3 Whether paying contractors, managing overhead, or receiving customer payments, Zelle supports economic empowerment and enables real-time cash flow. The Zelle network is built for reliability around the clock — and while small businesses count on it every day, the data reveals key moments when speed and dependability matter most: March Momentum: March is the busiest month for payments received by small businesses on Zelle. Why? March is typically tied to increased consumer spending from bonuses and tax refunds. Summer Surge: May through August have a high volume of payments sent by small businesses. This is typically when seasonal industries ramp up staffing and there is an increase in tourism, food service, recreation, landscaping, and construction. From Payday to Rent Pay: Fridays and the first of each month are consistently the busiest days for transactions. Both are days where businesses are often paying their employees and sending rent payments to landlords. These patterns reflect the real-time nature of small business operations and the growing reliance on trusted payment tools like Zelle. The benefits of Zelle to small businesses are clear and the increasing use of Zelle by small business owners reflects a broader digital shift as entrepreneurs seek payment tools that are more flexible and immediate. Zelle helps reduce uncertainty and helps small business owners focus on what matters most: running and growing their business. About Zelle® Zelle® is transforming how money moves, with more than five billion digital payments sent since its launch in 2017. The Zelle® network connects over 2,200 banks and credit unions of all sizes, enabling consumers and businesses to send digital payments to people and businesses they know and trust with an eligible bank account in the U.S. Money is available directly in bank accounts generally within minutes when the recipient is already enrolled with Zelle®. To learn more about Zelle® and participating financial institutions in the Zelle® network, visit 1Based on 2024 enrollment and 90-day use data. 2This consumer research was conducted by Nonfiction Research in partnership with Early Warning Services, LLC and Pereira O'Dell. The data and quotes featured were obtained via Qualitative Interviews (N=24) and Quantitative Surveys (N=1007) from July 2024 through August 2024. Participants were compensated for their time. 3Based on limited available and self-reported 2024 memo field data. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Early Warning Services, LLC
Business Journals
25-04-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Bun B's Trill Burgers opens 2nd standalone location in Klein area
By submitting your information you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and User Agreement . Join the Houston Business Journal to unlock even more insights! Trill Burgers, the popular smash burger chain owned by Houston rapper Bun B, officially has a second brick-and-mortar location — and this one is outside of the Loop. Trill Burgers, the popular smash burger chain owned by Houston rapper Bun B, officially has a second brick-and-mortar location. The new Spring restaurant, at 6810 Louetta Road in the unincorporated Klein area north of Houston, opened April 25. The company confirmed that location, formerly a Dairy Queen, last November. Jonathan Aron of Houston-based Hunington Properties secured the location for Trill Burgers, and Houston-based Construction Concepts & Design handled the design and build-out. GET TO KNOW YOUR CITY Find Local Events Near You Connect with a community of local professionals. Explore All Events The design features Trill's signature black-and-yellow color palette. Prominent design components include neon signage, including the 'Keep It Trill' phrase; warm wood elements; and colorful murals by Houston graphic artist Todd Louis. The 3,023-square-foot restaurant seats 76 guests inside and 32 on the patio. Trill Burgers' new location will continue to offer fan favorites, such as the OG Burger – named 'Best Burger in America' by Good Morning America in 2022 – the Vegan OG Burger and more. Additionally, Trill Lemonade makes its in-store debut in Spring after premiering at the 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The fresh-squeezed lemonade comes in classic and strawberry versions as well as blended with iced tea for an Arnold Palmer option. Coca-Cola is the new fountain drink provider for Trill Burgers. 'The support our community continues to show has been nothing short of incredible,' Bun B — whose real name is Bernard Freeman — said in an April 25 press release. 'We're so grateful for this city, and we're excited to expand to the north side of Houston. To our new neighbors and visitors in Spring, we're thrilled to be joining your community. We hope to see y'all at Trill Burgers very soon.' Led by co-founders Bun B, Andy Nguyen and Nick Scurfield with executive chefs Mike Pham and Fernando Valladares, Trill Burgers launched in 2021 with a series of pop-ups, including one at City Hall in September 2022 that drew 2,000 customers. Its first brick-and-mortar location opened in a former James Coney Island building at 3607 S. Shepherd Drive, at Richmond Avenue, in June 2023 and immediately attracted long lines. The concept also has added outposts at NRG Stadium, Shell Energy Stadium and TDECU Stadium. Trill Burgers also has participated in festivals such as Coachella, Rolling Loud, Rock the Bells and Something in the Water as well as the Chris Shepherd-spearheaded Southern Smoke Festival. The concept also sold thousands of burgers during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for the past several years. Next up, Trill Burgers plans to open locations in Fort Bend Town Center in Missouri City as well as on Westheimer west of the Galleria later this year. Trill Burgers' Spring restaurant will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the drive-thru open until midnight. Trill Burgers also extended its partnership with DoorDash as its exclusive third-party provider for delivery and pickup orders.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tri-State Fair & Rodeo names 5 finalists for inaugural $25,000 ambassador scholarship
The Tri-State Fair & Rodeo has announced five finalists for the inaugural Tri-State Fair Ambassador Scholarship. The 2025 finalists are Gunnar McConlogue from Canyon High School, Maggie Meeks from Dalhart High School, Sydney Nickson from Amarillo High School, Addilyn Reed from Kress High School and Tate Wilhelm from Canadian High School. The Tri-State Fair & Rodeo said the goal of the program is to identify outstanding area students that excel in leadership, integrity and community involvement. Each finalist will participate in an in-person interview on April 10, where they will present to a panel of judges and answer questions about their connection to the mission of the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo and vision for the ambassadorship. The winner will receive a $25,000 scholarship and the prestigious title of Tri-State Fair Ambassador, representing the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo throughout their senior year of high school. 'This scholarship will give one high school junior a platform to represent our longstanding, nonprofit organization, further develop their leadership skills and promote the mission of the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo, not to mention the invaluable experience engaging with the community,' said Brady Ragland, CEO of the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo. 'We are incredibly proud of this program.' The Tri-State Fair & Rodeo is committed to fostering youth development and supporting the next generation of leaders through scholarships and educational programs. The Ambassador Scholarship, new in 2025, is a cornerstone of this commitment, recognizing students who embody values that align with the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo. The 2025 winner will be announced following the interview process. Stay tuned for updates and join them in celebrating these remarkable students. For more information, visit or contact Lauren Fritzler at lauren@ Two Texas Panhandle youths came back with big wins from the recent Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as Junior Market Steer Champions. Grand Champion Jacob Schickedanz, 16, of Perryton sold his black crossbred steer, Kareem, at the Houston event for $675,000, and Reserve Grand Champion Jett Hale, 17, of Miami broke a record with his Charolais Cross steer, Mike, selling for $690,000, according to media reports. '(The judge) looked at (my steer) when the Reserve Grand Champions were walking around,' Jacob said. 'I thought maybe I had a shot then.' This week's Furry Friend from the Amarillo Society For the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is Hudson, a young male Husky. "Hudson is a gorgeous looking dog in his black & cream colored coat. A super sweet guy, who is certainly people friendly; dog friendly as well. Hudson needs a 'forever' home of his own." APSCA adoptions can be made at the shelter, 11901 S. Coulter, noon-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. For more info, call 806-622-0555, or visit or The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Amarillo said tickets are selling fast for Amarillo's 3rd Wine Women & Shoes, but there's still time to secure them before the event. The fun-filled evening takes place April 24 at 6 p.m. at Arts in the Sunset. It will include wine tasting, designer shopping, culinary delights, live and silent auctions, a raffle, fashion show and more. All proceeds go toward RMHC's mission to provide comfort, care, and support to families of children receiving medical treatment in the community. For more, visit The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services are among area agencies working to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. Events officially began Tuesday with The Bridge's sold-out Heroes & Legends: Striking Out Child Abuse event with Roger Clemens. Events this week include The Bridge's annual Pinwheel Ceremony at 11 a.m. Tuesday at 804 Quail Creek, Go Blue Lubbock Kickoff on Wednesday at the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and the Paint Cadillac Ranch Blue event Friday. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the Texas Abuse Hotline at 800-252-5400 or report online at Physicians Surgical Hospitals, Quail Creek campus recently completed its 100th Inspire procedure, a treatment option for those with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who cannot use Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. OSA affects 22 million Americans. When left untreated, it doesn't just affect one person, but also those around them. The Inspire system is implanted during a short, outpatient procedure. Inspire works inside the body with a patient's natural breathing process to treat sleep apnea. Mild stimulation opens the airway during sleep, allowing oxygen to flow naturally. The patient uses a small handheld remote to turn Inspire on before bed and off when they wake up. A Handy Gal 101 Workshop will be held 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. April 12. The Lucille and Leo Caiafa, Jr. Center for Advancement has partnered with Cadre Fuller Construction, Amarillo Custom Coatings and the Amarillo Fire Department to offer the workshop at their location at 2308 SW 7th St. in Amarillo. The workshop is free and open to any woman in the community and will have door prizes and refreshments for attendees. The hands-on workshop will include sessions on topics such as basic plumbing and electrical, tools for every job, flooring repair, drywall repair, heat/air unit maintenance and fire safety. Register by April 9 by calling 806-358-7803, email cfa@ or online at . Mission Amarillo's shoe closet has given away 1,406 pairs of shoes this school year, according to the organization. While they are on pace to past last year's total of 1,607, they're aiming to collect shoes in particular during June and July to be ready for August, when they regularly give away 250-325 pairs of shoes. Raising Cane's has launched a limited-edition Golden Plush Puppy, with 100% of net proceeds from in-restaurant sales benefiting local pet organization Amarillo SPCA. The Golden Plush Puppy is inspired by the brand's namesake dog, Cane and is available in-Restaurant and online for $9.99, now through April 29. DHDC's Summer Camp Discovery is officially open for registration. Caregivers have eight themes to choose from over the summer. Each weekly theme is packed with age-appropriate activities, crafts, science demonstrations, discovery, and fun: Blueprints & Beyond (June 2-6), Dino Discovery (June 9-13), Expedition Earth (June 16-20), Underwater Wonders (June 23-27), The Science of Art (June 30-July 3), Space Explorers (July 7-11), Animal Explorers (July 14-18), Code Makers (July 21-25). The July 4 week is split into individual day camps due to the holiday. Spots are limited; to register, for pricing and more information, visit The connections between Roman law and the U.S. Constitution, among other topics, will be in the spotlight in the next installment of West Texas A&M University's Distinguished Lecture Series. Dr. Lukasz Korporwicz, associate professor in the Department of Roman Law and vice dean for research at the University of Lodz in Poland, will offer 'Sophisticated Legal Tradition? On the Relation Between Common, Canon and Civil Law Once Again'at 7 p.m. April 3 in the Thunder Room in the Jack B. Kelley Student Center on WT's Canyon campus. Amarillo Independent School District's retiring superintendent Doug Loomis is being honored by the establishment of a professorship and an endowed scholarship in his name at West Texas A&M University through the Terry B. Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences. Loomis, who earned his master's in education from WT, announced in October that he would retire effective June 30. Loomis said he is 'deeply honored and profoundly humbled by the establishment of this professorship and scholarship" in his name at WT. The Amarillo Fire Department has shared about a community-led effort to install Amarillo's first Safe Haven Baby Box. The initiative builds on Texas' Baby Moses Law, which allows parents to safely surrender newborns at designated locations like fire stations. This project honors past stories of surrender, including one that took place at Station 13 just a few years ago. To learn more about the initiative or how you can help, visit This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Tri-State Fair & Rodeo names 5 ambassador scholarship finalists
