2009 News Archive
Listen Now
On the Air
KPAC
KSTX
KTXI



>>> Find current news stories in the TPR Newsroom


Interview: State Representative Frank Corte

December 30, 2009 · San Antonio state representative Frank Corte announced yesterday his decision to retire from the Texas House of Representatives. Corte is one of the most conservative members of the Texas House and is the Chair of the Republican Caucus. Rep. Corte speaks with Texas Public Radio's Davd Martin Davies about his decision to leave office and what the future might hold.


Wounded Warrior Finds Peace in Stand-up Comedy

December 30, 2009 · We first brought you the story of Staff Sergeant Bobby Henline last year. In April 2007, Henline was wounded in Iraq and burned over nearly half his body. After months of recovery, his life is slowly getting back to something like normal. Henline must endure grueling physical therapy because of his injuries. But to help heal his emotional wounds, he has taken up an interesting hobby, one that helps him employ the healing power of laughter. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


Wounded Warrior Sets Special Goals for Christmas

December 22, 2009 · The Christmas holiday is traditionally a time to celebrate with family and reflect on the achievements of the year. For some, what seem like the smallest goals are the most important. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea brings us the story of a wounded warrior who has some goals to achieve and some Christmas wishes to fulfill.


San Antonio Symphony Musicians Bring Holiday Cheer to Jail

December 24, 2009 · The San Antonio Symphony is providing some holiday cheer around Alamo City. John Clare has the story.


Bexar County Democratic Party Faces Embezzlement Scandal

December 23, 2009 · With less than three months before the primary elections, the Bexar County Democratic Party is missing more than two hundred thousand dollars. The party suspects the money was embezzld by a local party worker. Today Bexar county democrats are presenting a united front and pledging to raise the money needed to fix the financial mess. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Interview: Ben Roseberry of The Lion King

December 22, 2009 · Texas Public Radio's Ernie Villarreal interviews Ben Roseberry, who plays the hyena "Ed" in the traveling production of The Lion King.
 


Patty Ortiz on the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center

December 16, 2009 · Patty Ortiz, Executive Director ofthe Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, speaks with Texas Public Radio's Ernie Villarreal.


Texas Plans Energy Star Rebate Program

December 14, 2009 · If you are in the market for a new home appliance, you could save big with an energy efficient model and a Texas program. TPR David Martin Davies has the story.
 


Six San Antonio's Play in Annual Army-Navy Football Game

December 10, 2009 · Ernie Villarreal talks with one of the Midshipmen who is from San Antonio who is playing in the Annual Army-Navy football game.


Aurora Geis Talks About Her Resignation From CPS Energy Board

December 9, 2009 · Aurora Geis steps down from the CPS Energy board after eight years. She speaks to Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies just before her resignation plans were announced.


Sandra Cisneros Speaks on the 25th Anniversary of The House On Mango Street

December 7, 2009 · Sandra Cisneros talks to Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies about The House on Mango Street and her Macondo Foundation.
 


Inside the Combat Paper Project

December 4, 2009 · Serving in combat with a military unit can cause emotional scars that take years to heal – if they ever do. Many veterans continue to search for ways to work through their experiences in a positive way. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea introduces us to a project that encourages vets to channel those emotions into the creation of visual art.


Lamar Smith Poll Results Questioned

December 4, 2009 · Central Texas Congressman Lamar Smith is reaching out to area voters with a cell phone poll but some are questioning the polls accuracy. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


AtticRep Opens New Season With "Lydia"

December 2, 2009 · AtticRep opens its new season this week with a play about a Mexican American family navigating life in 1970’s El Paso. Director Marisela Barrera joined Terry Gildea in the studio to talk about this rich and complex play.


Mayor Castro Speaks on CPS Energy Scandal

November 25, 2009 · Still no verdict from the CPS Energy Board of Trustees on what to do about a scandal that has tarnished the San Antonio-owned energy provider. San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro is on the CPS Board. TPR's David Martin Davies spoke to Castro earlier today on the phone.


Maria Berriozabel Calls For Real Reform at CPS Energy

November 24, 2009 · The city owned energy provider, CPS Energy, is being rocked by scandal. It’s come to light that during a series of public forums about a proposed expansion to the South Texas Nuclear Project that official cost estimate was wrong and that the city council might have been deliberately mislead. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies speaks with former councilwoman Maria Berriozabel about calls for reform for the municipal energy provider.


Austin Group Takes on Cyber Bullies

November 24, 2009 · Schoolyard bullies have been around as long as there have been schoolyards, but with new social media technologies comes new ways for bullies to inflict misery. As Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports an Austin organization is looking to unplug cyber bullies.


Air Force Nurse Acquitted of Murder Charges

November 23, 2009 · An Air Force nurse was acquitted of murder charges Saturday in the deaths of three patients at Wilford Hall Medical Center. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


San Antonio Poet Wins Tobin Prize for Artist Excellence

November 23, 2009 · Recently the Artist Foundation of San Antonio announced eleven winners of grants for local art projects. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies talks with one of the grant recipients.


Fontana’s Defense Team Claims Medical Records Altered After Incidents

November 19, 2009 · The trial of an Air Force nurse charged with three counts of murder continued in San Antonio. More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.
 


The Trial of Captain Michael Fontana Continues

November 18, 2009 · The trial of an Air Force nurse accused of killing patients has begun at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


Rep. Rodriguez participates in Veteran Roundtable at UTSA

November 12, 2009 · Veteran’s day is a time to thank those who serve our country, but it can also be an opportunity to raise awareness about issues facing vets. Students and veterans gathered at the University of Texas at San Antonio on Wednesday for a roundtable discussion. More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.


San Antonio School Rock Challenge Promotes Physical Fitness for Kids

November 11, 2009 · Texas Public Radio's Ernie Villarreal visits a local elementary school to meet kids who are participating in the School Rock Challenge, an initiative of the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon San Antonio to promote health and physical fitness for children.


Rough Road for Military Families with Special Needs

November 11, 2009 · As the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq rage on repeated deployments are taking a toll on military families. As service members fight overseas, spouses and children are often left alone to navigate the challenges that come with separation. It becomes even more difficult when a parent has a child with special needs. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea profiles one military family trying to overcome some extraordinary obstacles.


Hotel Continues Annual Dia de los Muertos Tradition

October 27, 2009 · The traditional holiday honoring family and friends who have died will be observed this Sunday and Monday. On Sunday it’s All Souls Day and on Monday it’s Dia de los Muertos. Texas Public Radio's Ernie Villarreal talks with one hotel manager on how they are continuing the tradition.


Interview: Deborah Paredez, Author of Selenidad: Selena, Latinos, and the Performance of Memory

October 26, 2009 · Yvette Benavidez interviews Deborah Paredez, author of Selenidad: Selena, Latinos, and the Performance of Memory.


Brooks City Base Fights H1N1 and Educates Students

October 15, 2009 · A San Antonio military installation is playing a key role in controlling the spread of the H1N1 flu virus, and educating students about infectious diseases. More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.


Anti-Nuclear Protestors Prep for Public Referendum

October 14, 2009 · Activists gathered Wednesday to voice their opposition to CPS Energy’s plan to expand nuclear energy. And they say they are ready to take their fight to the next level. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


San Antonio to Celebrate Diwali, Festival of Lights

October 14, 2009 · As if San Antonio needed another reason to throw a party, the city now officially celebrates Diwali: the Festival of Lights. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.

 


Organizers Begin Work on Next Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio

October 14, 2009 · Organizers are working on the next San Antonio Luminaria, and they are looking for local artists. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies talks with event event organizers George Cisneros and Paula Owen about next year's event.


CPS Energy Approves Nuclear Expansion Plan

October 14, 2009 · After weeks of a public campaign discussing need for greater nuclear energy for San Antonio’s future, the CPS Energy Board voted Tuesday to seek expansion of the South Texas Nuclear Project. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Entrepreneur Combines Business and Philanthropy

October 13, 2009 · President Bill Clinton called him one of the most interesting entrepreneurs he ever met.  Blake Mycoskie is the founder of Tom’s Shoes, a company that gives away a pair of shoes for every pair it sells, and he’s coming to San Antonio to speak at St. Mary’s.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Japanese Tea Garden Restoration Enters Second Phase

October 12, 2009 · Tea once again will soon be flowing at the Japanese Sunken Tea Garden. Phase two was kicked off Monday for the restoration of the historic area in Brackenridge Park. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


CPS Energy Forecasts Consumer Costs for the Winter

October 12, 2009 · Recent cooler temperatures mean San Antonio residents will soon turn off their air conditioners and fire up their furnaces. On Monday, CPS Energy officials released their estimates on how much it will cost consumers to stay warm this winter. More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.


Texas Facing Possible Fines Over Food Stamp Delay

October 12, 2009 · In this economic downturn, a growing number of Texans are asking for help feeding their families with food stamps.  But according to the federal government, the state agency in charge of the program isn’t doing a very good job.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Unemployment Hitting Intellectually Disabled

October 9, 2009 · The unemployment rate in Texas has hit 8 percent, a 22-year high. As jobs get scarce, there’s one segment of the population who is getting hit particularly hard. They are the intellectually challenged. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Bexar County Teaches Financial Literacy to Combat Domestic Violence

October 9, 2009 · October is Domestic Violence Awareness month and the Bexar County Family Justice Center is looking to highlight a disturbing trend and offer a lifeline to families in distress. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


How CareLink Serves Bexar County

October 8, 2009 · Among the many questions in the health care debate is how much should the government do to care for those who don’t have the money or insurance to get care themselves. Traditionally state governments have that responsibility, but in Texas, each county must pick up the tab for those costs not covered by other programs. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea looks at a program in Bexar County trying to meet the healthcare needs of the working poor.


Third Annual AccessAbility Fest Takes Place On Oct. 11

October 8, 2009 · On Sunday, October 11, Texas Public Radio will host the 3rd annual AccessAbility Fest in honor of National Disability Awareness Month. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies spoke with event organizer Melanie Cawthon about the initiative.


Family Exhibits Family Art Stolen by Nazis

October 7, 2009 · A new exhibit opens on October 7 at the McNay Art Museum. "Reclaimed" features masterwork paintings that had been stolen by the Nazis and then stolen again by the Dutch government. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


INTERVIEW: Rudi Rodriguez of Texas Tejano

October 6, 2009 · Texas Tejano sets to raise awareness about Tejano pioneers’ contributions in Texas history. The organization is founded by a Tejano descendant Rudi Rodriguez. Rudi joined TPR's David Martin Davies in the Texas Public Radio studios.


Local Photographer Finalist in "This Place Matters" Contest

October 5, 2009 · A local photographer is a finalist in a national contest put on by National Trust for Historic Preservation. More from TPR’s Ernie Villarreal.
 


Big Brothers Big Sisters to Start New Juvenile Mentoring Program

September 28, 2009 · Big Brothers and Big Sisters of South Texas has received a grant to begin new mentoring program for juvenile offenders. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.
 


The Horse Boy

September 18, 2009 · A new documentary, The Horse Boy, chronicles a Texas family’s healing journey halfway around the world with their five-year-old autistic son. Texas Public Radio’s Nathan Cone shares their remarkable story.


Soldiers at Fort Sam Remember 9/11 Victim

September 11, 2009 · As the nation reflects on the eighth anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, some soldiers gathered at Fort Sam Houston this morning to honor one of their own that perished on that day.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


NEISD Announces It Will Not Broadcast Obama Speech Live

September 3, 2009 · A San Antonio school district has announced it will not broadcast President Obama’s speech on education next week.  More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.


Air Force Nurse Accused of Murder Puts Off Entering Plea

September 2, 2009 · An Air Force nurse charged with killing three terminally ill patients has put off entering a plea. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.
 


Symposium on Trauma Care Held in San Antonio

August 31, 2009 · Medical professionals from all over the country gathered in San Antonio on Monday to share and discuss the latest innovations in trauma medicine. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


Texans Rally to Break Away from the United States

August 31, 2009 · Some Texans are calling for the Lone Star State to secede from the rest of the country.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story from Austin.


City Plans Cuts for Project WORTH

August 25, 2009 · The City of San Antonio faces some difficult decisions as city council members review a proposed budget in a time when tax revenue continues to decrease. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports that one of the biggest cuts would gut a city program that works in the community to reduce teen pregnancy.


Drought Has Devastating Effect on Area Ranchers

August 24, 2009 · According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the area of Austin down to the border is experiencing exceptional drought conditions. San Antonio is in the middle of that drought zone. In at least nine counties, it’s the worst drought on record. And, as Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports, the drought is having a devastating effect on area ranchers.


Judge Sharon Keller Awaits Decision from State Panel

August 21, 2009 · The ethics trial of Texas Criminal Appeals Court Judge Sharon Keller ended in San Antonio on Thursday. She is accused of denying a death row inmate his defense team the right to appeal their case on the day of his execution. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


LULAC Challenges 'Texas Two-Step'

August 14, 2009 · Luis Vera is the council for LULAC. The civil rights organization is suing the Texas Democratic Party over it’s Texas Two Step primary system. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


The State of Texas Newspapers

August 14, 2009 · Newspapers around the country are struggling to survive. Some are cutting back on staff and shrinking the size of paper itself. Other papers have closed altogether after more than a century of publishing. Newspapers in the Lone Star State are not immune to the recession. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea spent some time inside the San Antonio Express-News to see how one of the state’s major newspapers is retooling itself to stay alive.


Poetry and Tango Highlighted in San Antonio

July 30, 2009 · Poetry and tango music combined Wednesday night as part of the Macondo Writers Workshop. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


The Air Force Will Hire 1200 Civilians Nationwide

July 27, 2009 · The U.S. Air Force will hire more than one thousand civilians in the next few months and some of those jobs will be coming to San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


VA Secretary Shinseki Addresses Army Medical Symposium

July 22, 2009 · Eric Shinseki, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, addressed service members gathered at an Army medical conference in San Antonio Wednesday. The retired Army General used the opportunity to outline his vision for improving VA healthcare over the next several years. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


Wounded Warrior Symposium

July 16, 2009 · Soldiers returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are coming home with serious problems, both physical and mental issues resulting from their combat experience. The Army wants to do a better job of giving them more immediate and comprehensive care. So this week Army brass took off their uniforms and opened up their ears to soldiers and their families struggling to recover. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


Finding Jobs for Wounded Warriors

July 13, 2009 · Finding a job in today’s economy is getting more and more difficult. But imagine the challenge for a service member who has spent months recovering from injuries sustained in Iraq. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea brings us the story of a wounded warrior who is making that transition from the hospital to the workplace, with help of some important Army programs.


African-American Art at the Amon Carter Museum

June 30, 2009 · One of the most significant collections of African-American art in the world was assembled not by a wealthy patron but by a middle-class couple from San Antonio. In the 1980s, Harmon and Harriet Kelley began buying the occasional painting of a Texas landscape. But in 1986, the San Antonio Museum of Art brought in the touring exhibition, “Hidden Heritage: Afro-American Art from 1800-1950.” From North Texas Public Radio KERA's Jerome Weeks has the story.


San Antonio Film Festival Turns 15

June 25, 2009 · The San Antonio Film Festival celebrates its Quinceañera this year. It’s bigger than ever with four full days of films and workshops at the Instituto Cultural de Mexico in downtown San Antonio’s Hemisfair Park. Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone talks to the festival organizer.


Wounded Warriors Test Their Skills at Mini-Triathlon

May 25, 2009 · The triathlon is often a grueling event – testing both physical and mental stamina. Imagine participating in one with a prosthetic limb or while recovering from severe burns.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea takes us to a triathlon where wounded warriors are showing everyone they’ve got what it takes to be competitors.


Shiner's Spoetzl Brewery Turns 100

May 22, 2009 · A cultural icon of the Lone Star State turns 100 this year.  Shiner Bock enjoys a large following among beer lovers around the country and its popularity is growing.  The Spoetzl Brewery was one of only a few to survive prohibition and now it’s battling a surge of international brands and micro brews to keep its share of the market.  Terry Gildea takes us to the small Texas town where it all began and continues today.


Castro Looks To The Future As Mayor

May 11, 2009 · Julian Castro enjoyed a wide margin of support on election night, but amidst the celebration, the mayor-elect of San Antonio was also thinking about the challenges he will face.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


McNeil Looks Ahead After Defeat

May 11, 2009 · San Antonio City Councilwoman Sheila McNeil suffered a difficult defeat in the Mayor’s race.  But TPR’s Terry Gildea reports she heads back into private life proud of what she’s accomplished.


Lawmakers Work to Block Sex Offenders from Internet Sites

May 5, 2009 · Texas lawmakers are working to pass a bill that would better track the Internet activities of registered sex offenders.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports on the measure to hopes to make chat rooms and social networking sites safer for kids.


Voter ID Bill Stalled In House

May 1, 2009 · A bill that would require voters to show a photo ID in order to vote has stalled in the Texas House thanks to party politics.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports.


Perry Bashes Media for Flu “Hype”

April 30, 2009 · Governor Rick Perry was in San Antonio today to see how the region is dealing with swine flu.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.
 


VA Assistant Secretary Tammy Duckworth Speaks at AW2 Training

April 30, 2009 · The U-S Army held a training seminar in San Antonio for those counselors who help soldiers wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan get their lives back on track.  The key note speaker at the conference was herself a wounded warrior and the newest assistant secretary to Veteran’s Administration.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has the story.


Texas Governor Declares Swine Flu Disaster

April 29, 2009 · Texas Governor Rick Perry has issued a state-wide disaster declaration over the swine flu outbreak.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports the declaration will allow the state to move more aggressively against the virus.


Swine Flu Test Kit Shortage

April 29, 2009 · The number of swine flu cases in the U.S. may be underreported.  KUT's Crystal Chavez reports that some clinics don't have swine flu test kits on hand.


Texas Pandemic Hearing Revisted

April 28, 2009 · Texas health officials are working overtime trying to contain the Swine Flu virus across the state.  But early last year, they were warning state lawmakers that Texas was ill prepared to deal with a flu pandemic.  KUT's Nathan Bernier reports.


Seton Home Loses State Funding

April 28, 2009 · Texas has weathered the recession better than most states, but non-profits that provide important social services are losing funding from foundations and government programs.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea brings us the story of Seton Home in San Antonio and the tough choices the organization has had to make to keep their doors open.


Lawmakers Consider Keller Impeachment Resolution

April 27, 2009 · Texas lawmakers heard the arguments over whether or not to impeach Court of Criminal Appeals Chief Justice Sharon Keller.  Keller has been under fire since September 2007 when she allegedly closed the court and effectively denied a last-second appeal of a man who was executed later that night.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports.


Swine Flu Shuts Down School District

April 27, 2009 · There are signs that the swine flu virus is spreading in Cibolo, Texas, near San Antonio.  There could be as many as 12 cases of swine flu among the students.  As a result, all the schools in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City School District are closed for the entire week.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Study Finds 7th Graders Having Sex

April 22, 2009 · A new study finds young people are having sex as early as 7th grade.  KUHF's Bill Stamps reports that while the news may or may not be shocking, researchers believe those who do have sex that young may be setting themselves up for failure.


San Antonio Symphony Deals With Revenue Shortfall

April 21, 2009 · The San Antonio Symphony is playing the blues.  The city’s orchestra is suffering a budget shortfall and it's responding by making cuts.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Texas Cities Dominate Job Growth List

April 20, 2009 · Forbes magazine has released its list of best cities for jobs in the U.S. and Texas dominates the list.  The study is based on job growth in more than 300 metropolitan areas across the U.S.  Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone has more.


Andrews County To Vote On Funding Nuclear Waste Dump

April 20, 2009 · Early voting begins on April 27th and while many Texas cities will focus on picking new mayors and city council members, Andrews County in far West Texas will be deciding if they should use county funds pay for a local private nuclear waste dump.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Texas House Begins Budget Debate

April 17, 2009 · The Texas House begins debate on its version of the state budget this morning.  Lawmakers filed more than 400 amendments on the $178 billion bill.  KUT’s Ben Philpott gives us a preview of today’s debate.


Republicans Attempt Revival With Anti-Tax Rallies

April 16, 2009 · While procrastinators raced against the April 15th tax filing deadline, tax protesters held “tea parties” across the nation.  In Texas, Republicans may be trying to regain an image as the “low-tax party.”  KERA's Shelley Kofler has the story.


Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins

April 16, 2009 · The gulf coast weather is warming up, meaning that it’s the beginning of the sea turtle nesting season.  Wildlife experts say beach-goers can help the endangered turtles best, by just leaving them alone.  KUHF's Jim Bell reports turtle populations are on the rebound.


Alamo Tea Party Brings Out Crowd

April 15, 2009 · On April 15, crowds were swarming around the Alamo.  They carried political signs and teabags on federal Tax Day.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.
 


American Airlines Workers Protest Executive Package

April 15, 2009 · Hundred of American Airlines employees – from ramp workers to baggage handlers – protested outside corporate headquarters, demanding an end to stock compensation for executives.  The payout to senior management is expected later today.  KERA’s Bill Zeeble has more.


Alamo Plaza Prepares for Tax Day Tea Party

April 15, 2009 · Today is the day to settle up with Uncle Sam and many are marking their federal tax day with tea.  Not for drinking, but for protesting.  One tea party protest that’s getting national attention is in San Antonio in front of the Alamo.  Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Congress Could Consider DREAM Act

April 13, 2009 · President Obama recently rekindled hope for some of those pushing for comprehensive immigration reform.  As a result, Congress may try tackling the issue this year, and the DREAM Act could be part of the effort.  KERA’s Bill Zeeble has more.


Rain Slows Texas Wildfires, But Many Burn On

April 12, 2009 · Most of Central and North Texas received about inch or more of rain last night into early Easter morning.  Hundred of thousands of acres of Texas land has been burning since last week in wildfires scattered across the state.  The storm has been a welcoming sign for some firefighters battling wildfires in Central Texas.  But as KUT’s Erika Aguilar reports, the storm actually made things worse for others in West Texas.


Burial Program Ensures Homeless Vets Not Forgotten

April 10, 2009 · Despite an increase in awareness and services, the number of homeless veterans across the country remains high.  While many programs try to give these vets a new life off the streets, some never make it back to stability.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea examines an effort by the military community that ensures the sacrifices these men have made will never be forgotten.


Lawmaker Blasted for Asian Comment

April 10, 2009 · Democrats are lambasting State Representative Betty Brown of Terrell for comments she made about voters of Asian descent.  She suggested they adopt names that are "easier for Americans to deal with." KERA's Shelley Kofler reports.


Two Texas Colleges Earn Muzzle Awards

April 9, 2009 · A national group has criticized two Texas colleges over matters of free speech.  Each school's administration clamped down on student-led protests about gun rights on campus.  KUT's Ian Crawford reports the on the collision between the Right to Free Expression and the Right to Bear Arms.


Texas race track gambles with new slot machines

April 9, 2009 · The horses are off and running today at Grand Prairie's Lone Star Park season opener.  With the track's parent company under bankruptcy protection, Lone Star is betting on a bottom line boost by adding slot machines.  That's if legislators and voters OK the move.  KERA's Bill Zeeble reports.


Texas-based Centex purchased by Pulte Homes

April 9, 2009 · Dallas-based homebuilder Centex, one of the nation’s biggest, is being purchased by its larger competitor from Michigan, Pulte Homes.  KERA’s Bill Zeeble has more.
 


No New Road Money After 2012

April 8, 2009 · The State of Texas is running out of money to build new roads.  That was the message delivered to the Capitol today.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports on what lawmakers are doing to try and generate new funds.


Voter ID Public Testimony

April 8, 2009 · Texans got their chance to let lawmakers know what they think about a proposed Voter ID bill.  The proposal would require a photo ID or two other identification items to allow Texans to vote.  KUT’s Ben Philpott reports on what the public had to say.


Time Warner Tests Bandwidth Caps

April 7, 2009 · Time Warner Cable is using San Antonio, Austin and several other cities as test markets to experiment with how internet service is sold.  The company will begin testing a pricing scheme that would charge based on how much you download.  As KUT's Nathan Bernier reports, the test may be about more than just an increase in fees.


Guns and Money Make US-Mexico Border Porous

April 1, 2009 · U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano is traveling to the Southwest border this week to discuss U.S.-Mexico border security.  KUT's Crystal Chavez reports on the efforts to stop firearms trafficking.


Military Bases to Benefit from Federal Stimulus Package

March 30, 2009 · Members of San Antonio’s congressional delegation have announced that a huge chunk of federal stimulus money will go toward construction projects on surrounding military bases.  TPR’s Terry Gildea has more.


Senator Cornyn Pushes for New VA Hospital in the Rio Grande Valley

March 26, 2009 · Republican Texas Senator John Cornyn wants to build a new Veteran’s Medical Center in the Rio Grande Valley.  More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.
  


Air Force Nurse Charged in the Deaths of Three Patients

March 17, 2009 · An Air Force nurse has been charged in the deaths of three terminally ill patients at Wilford Hall Medical Center.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.
 


Wounded Warriors Ride through San Antonio and Texas

March 13, 2009 · There’s a special group of cyclists riding through San Antonio and other Texas cities this week.  They’re wounded warriors injured in Afghanistan and Iraq.  Today they made a pit stop at the Alamo.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


Forum Theater Project Explores Borders and Walls

March 12, 2009 · Attic Rep, one of San Antonio’s professional theatre companies, is using improvisation to tell stories about life along the U.S./Mexico border.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


Soldiers and employers gather for wounded warrior job fair

March 11, 2009 · Finding a job is getting tough, but imagine you’re recovering from an injury sustained in Iraq or Afghanistan and now you’re looking for full-time work.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea takes us to a job fair specifically designed for wounded warriors.


Luminaria 2009 Gears Up For Saturday

March 10, 2009 · This Saturday downtown San Antonio will transform into a giant canvas to show off the city's creative community.  It will be the second year for Luminaria and San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger has a message for the tens of thousands of people who attended last year, "you aint seen nothing yet."  Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Brackenridge Park Parking Garage Opens

March 6, 2009 · The problem of too many cars squeezed into Brackenridge Park now has a solution.  The city’s favorite picnic area now has an environmentally smart parking garage.  TPR's David Martin Davies has the story.


Sheila McNeil considers running for mayor

March 5, 2009 · Time is running out for Sheila McNeil to enter the city’s mayoral race.  TPR’s Terry Gildea reports the second term city councilwoman IS considering a run.
 


Smith and Rodriguez secure funds for San Antonio International Airport

February 27, 2009 · Two San Antonio Congressman have secured more than one million dollars of federal money to help pay for improvements at the airport.  More from Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea.


SA lawmakers push for help with BRAC infrastructure

February 25, 2009 · As Congress debates appropriations bills for the fiscal year, some San Antonio lawmakers are trying to get some money to help with an upcoming military expansion.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


What the Stimulus Package means for San Antonio

February 17, 2009 · President Obama signed the enormous economic stimulus bill into law on Tuesday.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea caught up with San Antonio Democrat Charlie Gonzalez to find out how the package could benefit the Alamo City.


SA Democrats sponsor three family planning bills

February 16, 2009 · Texas ranks third in nation for the number of first time teen pregnancies – but it tops the list for the amount of repeat teen births.  Two San Antonio democratic state lawmakers are sponsoring legislation they hope will decrease the number of repeat births.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


Defense Contractors and Personnel Come to SA to Discuss BRAC

February 11, 2009 · San Antonio is one of many cities around the country preparing for a realignment of military bases over the next three years.  Defense contractors and government officials gathered in the Alamo city this week to discuss the obstacles that face them as they try to meet project deadlines.  Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


San Antonio Mayoral Candidates Compete Online for Votes

February 3, 2009 · The race for San Antonio mayor is underway. Although the election isn’t until May, the candidates are already scrambling for votes, and the first battleground is the world online. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Urban-15 Performs for President Obama

January 21, 2009 · At the inaugural parade, San Antonio’s Urban-15 group was asked to give the new president a special performance. From Washington D.C. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Long Waits for Washington D.C. Visitors

January 20, 2009 · Washington D.C. is overflowing with people who have swarmed on the nation’s capital to witness the swearing in of a new president. Most of those people will be riding the Metro subway to get around, and that’s putting a strain on the system. From Washington D.C. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


MLK March Draws Thousands

January 20, 2009 · Thousands gathered on San Antonio’s east side today (yesterday) to march in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, but this year’s event has a special meaning for the city and the rest of the nation. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


Urban-15 Travels to D.C.

January 19, 2009 · San Antonio’s drum and dance group Urban-15 is in Manassas, Virginia, this morning, just outside of Washington D.C. The group spent the weekend going sixteen hundred miles to take part in the Barack Obama's presidential inauguration parade. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Germans Interned in Texas during WWII

January 14, 2009 · It’s well known that during WWII the United States Government created camps for Japanese immigrants and citizens of Japanese decent. The United States officially apologized and paid reparations to the Japanese for this injustice. But the government also interned some fifteen thousand Germans and German-Americans during the war, many of them in Texas. The U.S. has never officially apologized for that action. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Mayor Hardberger Urges Support for Urban-15 Trip to D.C.

January 7, 2009 · The San Antonio dance and drum group Urban-15 is working on the last minute details for its trip to the presidential inauguration. One detail is coming up with the money to pay for the trip. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Braswell Concert to Benefit SA Homeless

January 6, 2009 · A San Antonio singer who rocketed to stardom on the television program America’s Got Talent will use his talent to help San Antonio’s homeless. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Fallen Heroes Honored at Basic Training Graduation

January 2, 2009 · Families gathered at Lackland Air Force Base this morning to celebrate as their loved ones graduated from basic training. But two milestones made the day especially important. Texas Public Radio's Terry Gildea has more.


>>> Find archived news stories from 2008