The beloved bakery chain Sprinkles Cupcakes has unexpectedly closed all of its retail locations and cupcake ATMs across the U.S., ending a 20‑year era in gourmet desserts. The closures took effect on January 1st, 2026 (New Year's Eve was the last operating day), surprising customers, employees, and fans alike, with little prior warning. A pioneer of gourmet cupcakes and cupcake ATMs Founded in 2005 in Beverly Hills by [...]
Another blow to California workers: 368 jobs lost as cheese plant moves production to Texas”
A major cheese manufacturing facility in Lemoore, California is set to permanently close early next year, cutting hundreds of jobs and dealing a blow to the local community. The Leprino Foods ‘Lemoore East’ plant — part of one of the world’s largest mozzarella producers — will cease operations in early 2026. History Leprino’s Lemoore East facility has been open for more than a century. Company officials cite the [...]
“Time to call it”: After 62 years, beloved Texas restaurant closes as aging owners step down
After more than six decades as a beloved community fixture, the Monterey House Mexican Restaurant in Beaumont, Texas, has served its final meals. The iconic Tex-Mex eatery, which has been open since 1963, closed permanently on December 31, 2025, marking the end of a 62-year culinary legacy that introduced generations of Southeast Texans to classic Tex-Mex flavors. Rooted in community history Founded by Bob and Pris [...]
Forget strict diets this New Year — why “add before you subtract” is the healthier approach
Every New Year, millions of people resolve to “eat better,” often by cutting carbs, sugar, or entire food groups. But dietitians (like myself) agree that strict diets rarely last — and for many, they backfire entirely, and can even lead to bigger problems like disordered eating. Instead, aim for a simpler, more sustainable approach for the new year: add before you subtract. Why New Year’s diets often fail Highly [...]
Trying to cut grocery costs in 2026? These 4 nutrient-dense foods are worth buying
As many households look ahead to 2026, setting a realistic grocery budget is becoming just as important as choosing nutritious foods. With food prices still elevated, it's important to focus on items that deliver the most nutrition per dollar. These four cost-effective, nutrient-dense foods can help stretch grocery budgets without sacrificing health. #1: Eggs Eggs remain one of the most budget-friendly sources of [...]
Don’t pass up these 3 frozen foods at Costco, says a dietitian
Stocking your freezer with nutrition-packed staples can make healthy eating easier and more affordable — especially at Costco, where buying in bulk means less frequent grocery trips and better value per serving. As a Costco-loving Registered Dietitian, I’m sharing three of my favorite frozen foods from Costco that I always have on hand. 1. Trident Salmon Burgers If you’re like me, you know fish is good for you and [...]
