H-Town Morning: Energy Power Moves and Rodeo Rhythms

Morning Mood: The Pre-Rodeo Warm-Up

Houstonians waking up this Wednesday are greeted by a thick blanket of clouds and that familiar Bayou City humidity. With temperatures climbing to a mild 79 degrees by the afternoon, the city feels like it is holding its breath for spring. There is a distinct sense of "Rodeo Fever" starting to simmer, as the legendary Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is now less than two weeks away. Whether you are navigating the south-southwest gusts during your commute or planning an outdoor lunch, the lack of rain makes it a stable, if slightly gray, day to get things done across H-Town.

The Big Talking Point: Houston Solidifies Its Energy Crown

The talk of the town in the business district is the massive $58 billion merger between Houston-based Coterra Energy and Devon Energy. This corporate titan-pairing ensures the combined company remains headquartered right here in Houston, pushing our city’s Fortune 500 headquarters count to an impressive 27. Along with Expand Energy relocating its executive leadership from Oklahoma City to the Bayou City this month, the message is clear: Houston remains the undisputed global capital of energy. For residents, this means more than just bragging rights; it signals continued economic momentum and industry stability in the natural gas and power sectors as we head further into 2026.

Feel-Good Story: Cougars Kick Off the Trail Ride

If you see a different kind of traffic near the University of Houston today, do not be surprised. In a heartwarming nod to Texas tradition, UH students are kicking off the season with a "Rodeo Trail Ride" this afternoon. Departing from Cougar Woods Dining Hall at 5 p.m., students and campus police will make their way to the Fertitta Center to support the Cougars' Women’s Basketball team in their high-stakes clash against #12 TCU. It is a perfect blend of campus pride and western heritage, featuring commemorative gameday buttons and postgame autographs. Other local highlights for your Wednesday evening include:

• Dropkick Murphys: Bringing high-energy Celtic punk to the House of Blues at 6:00 p.m.
• Rice Baseball: The Owls take on the Purdue Boilermakers at Reckling Park with the first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m.
• Mountain West Swimming: The 2026 Championships officially dive in today at the UH CRWC Natatorium, bringing elite collegiate athletes to the region through Saturday.