TEXAS HEMP BUSINESS COUNCIL

Nov 23 2025ENTERTAINMENT

Holiday Fun at Oregon Public Library

The Oregon Public Library is buzzing with holiday activities this December. Kids can meet Santa in a calm setting on December 6th. This event is perfect for families with children who have autism or special needs. The library is teaming up with Easter Seals to make this Santa visit extra welcoming. You need to email jocelync@oregonpubliclibrary. com to book your time...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 23 2025BUSINESS

China and Italy: A Balancing Act

China's Premier Li Qiang recently emphasized the importance of mutual investment benefits between China and Italy. He highlighted this during a chat with Italian President Giorgia Meloni at the G20 summit in Johannesburg. Li Qiang expressed hope for a level playing field for Chinese investors in Italy. He also mentioned that China is open to more Italian businesses ...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025BUSINESS

When Fintech Meets Betting: The Polymarket Story

In 2025, the world of fintech took a thrilling turn with the rise of Polymarket, a crypto-based platform that lets people bet on all sorts of events. But it's not all fun and games. This platform is walking a fine line between innovation and gambling, and regulators are watching closely. Polymarket started in 2020, allowing users to bet on political, cultural, and e...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 23 2025EDUCATION

ODU and Google Join Forces to Boost AI Education

Old Dominion University (ODU) has taken a big step forward by teaming up with Google to create MonarchSphere, an AI incubator. This isn't just about using AI; it's about building a whole new way for students and teachers to work together with businesses to tackle real-life problems. The university's president, Brian O. Hemphill, sees this as a game-changer. He belie...

reading time less than a minute
Nov 23 2025ENTERTAINMENT

Downtown Elizabeth's Ritz Theatre: A Cultural Powerhouse

The Ritz Theatre in downtown Elizabeth is more than just a venue; it's a community hub that brings people together. The Castros, a father-son duo, have transformed this historic theater into a place where music, sports, and culture collide. Imagine giant screens broadcasting the World Cup, concerts featuring big-name artists, and even boxing matches—all under one roo...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025BUSINESS

Alaska's Small Businesses Face Health Insurance Crisis

Alaska's small business owners are in a tough spot. Health insurance costs are going up a lot. This is because special help from the government, called premium tax credits, is ending soon. Without this help, many small businesses might struggle to stay open. Some business owners, like Brie Loidolt, are seeing their insurance costs go up by hundreds of dollars each m...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025BUSINESS

The Ups and Downs of Running Your Own Show

Starting a business is not just about having a great idea. It's about being ready for the rollercoaster ride that comes with it. You might think being your own boss means no one tells you what to do. But in reality, you answer to everyone - customers, suppliers, and employees. Are you ready for that responsibility? Time and money can be unpredictable. Some days, you...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025BUSINESS

A Rising Star in Banking: Meghan Sonderegger's Journey

Meghan Sonderegger has climbed the ranks at Union Bank & Trust (UBT) and is now the Vice President of Treasury and Payments. She's been with the bank since 2005 and has focused on improving digital products for both retail and business customers. Sonderegger is not just about work. She gives back to her community by volunteering at her children's schools. This shows...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025TECHNOLOGY

Texas City's High-Tech Virtual Gate: A Double-Edged Sword for Safety

In a small Texas city near Houston, a high-tech security system is keeping a close eye on everyone who comes and goes. This isn't your average security setup. It's a network of cameras and license plate readers that creates an invisible barrier around the city. The goal is to catch criminals and protect residents. But it also raises some big questions about privacy. ...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025OPINION

Pennsylvania's Energy Potential Stifled by Old Rules

Pennsylvania is a big deal in the energy world. It's the second-largest natural gas producer in the U. S. , right behind Texas. The state also exports a lot of coal. Recently, U. S. Sen. Dave McCormick hosted an event focusing on AI and energy. This event showed how important Pennsylvania is for the country's energy future and the economic chances it brings for peopl...

reading time about 2 minutes