2011 News Archive
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Closing Arguments Heard in Redistricting Case

January 31, 2012 · Closing arguments are underway in Washington, D.C. over Texas' redistricting maps and the issue of whether the state violated the Voting Rights Act.


Attorney Chronicles Redistricting Developments With Website

January 30, 2012 · A Texas attorney is trying to make sense of all the redistricting developments. Michael Li created txredistricting.org after the Census data came out last year. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked with him on what he thinks will happen.


Time Running Out For Redistricting Compromise

January 30, 2012 · February 6 is the deadline a San Antonio federal court set for the state and minority groups to reach a compromise on redrawn political districts or risk pushing back the April 3 primary.


SAWS Begins BexarMet Transition

January 30, 2012 · Over the weekend, sign workers removed the BexarMet letters from the building and changed out the decals on the fleet of trucks in a transition ceremony. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd was there and spoke to State Senator Carlos Uresti, who began the process of dissolving the troubled water company five years ago.


Cowboy Breakfast Kicks off San Antonio Rodeo

January 26, 2012 · Thousands of San Antonians attended the 34th annual Cowboy Breakfast this morning at Cowboy's Dancehall.


HeartGift Receives Support from San Antonio Cocktail Conference

January 26, 2012 · An organization that provides cardiac surgery for impoverished children is getting some support from the San Antonio Cocktail Conference.


St. Patrick's Day Street Parade Cancelled

January 26, 2012 · For the first time in 44 years, the St. Patrick's Day Street Parade will be a no-go. The Harp and Shamrock Association, which runs the parade, could not afford the cost and had to make the decision to cancel it.


District 25 Candidate Defends Residency

January 26, 2012 · While the redistricting maps are up in the air, candidates may not know where they are running. But one of Texas' Railroad Commissioners, Elizabeth Ames Jones, is vying for Bexar County's Senate District 25 currently held by Jeff Wentworth. As Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports, there is a question over her residency for that office.


National Parks Service Seeks to Connect With Latino Communities

January 27, 2012 · The National Parks Service has developed a new program to connect with Latino communities across the country. It's part of an overall effort to recognize the country's ethnically diverse cultures. From Phoenix, Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez reports.


Councilwoman Ivy Taylor Meets One on One With Her Constituents

January 26, 2012 · It's idea day for Councilwoman Ivy Taylor. She went one on one with constituents as she continues her efforts to curb the violence on the east side.


Airport Improvements Taking Off

January 26, 2012 · Passengers will soon see more improvements at the San Antonio International Airport taking off.


Veterans Group Seeks To Help Soldiers Returning Home From War

January 26, 2012 · As the war in Afghanistan winds down, and thousands of soldiers find themselves struggling to integrate back into a normal life, there are people who want them to know there's help.


Tornado Confirmed in San Antonio

January 26, 2012 · Damage on the westside street of Deer Park has been confirmed as the result of a tornado.


University Health System Receive Grant to Prevent Cervical Cancer in Latina Women

January 26, 2012 · The Bexar County University Health System is the recipient of a multi-million dollar grant to prevent cervical cancer in the Latina population.


Food Bank Conserves Resources Through Energy Efficiency

January 26, 2012 · The San Antonio Food Bank is a little more self-sustainable after a grant from the Department of Energy.


Winds Damage Westside Homes

January 25, 2012 · Several residents on the westside are picking up the pieces after a high winds from this morning's storms tore their homes apart.


Straus Looks Ahead to 2013 Session

January 25, 2012 · While lawmakers are away from the Capitol, they've still got work to do. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked with Speaker of the House Joe Straus on his priorities before the 83rd Legislative Session begins a year from now.


VIA Moves Forward With Bus Rapid Transit on Fredericksburg Road

January 25, 2012 · Construction will soon begin to improve VIA's mobility in one of the city's most traveled corridors.


Texas Lawmakers React to State of the Union

January 25, 2012 · Last night, President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress in his third State of the Union speech. As Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports, he underscored education, energy, and immigration, to name a few.


Bexar County Piloting Green Programs

January 24, 2012 · Bexar County Commissioners are going green.


Public Art is Thriving in San Antonio

January 24, 2012 · You may notice new art around city offices and public spaces around town. No, the city isn't spending your hard earned money on expensive art. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd explains how this art found its way to places like City Hall.


Local Restaurants Rewarded for Workplace Safety

January 24, 2012 · Safety in the workplace is paying local restaurant owners hundreds of thousands of dollars.


Artist Evokes African Heritage in Unique Fiber Art Exhibit

January 24, 2012 · The Southwest School of Art is celebrating the new year with a special exhibit of fiber art from a nationally-renowned artist. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the exhibit's fortuitous timing during Black History Month provides an added layer of cultural interest.


MPO Seeks Input on Transportation Projects

January 24, 2012 · The Metro Planning Organization is calling on residents of San Antonio and Bexar County to help prioritize a list of transportation projects.


Basura Bash an Annual Tradition for Area Volunteers

January 23, 2012 · This year will be the 18th anniversary for the river clean up party known as "Basura Bash." Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on its long-standing history and the volunteers who make it a part of their life.


Community Outreach Keeps San Antonio Classical Music Thriving in Tough Economy

January 23, 2012 · Last year, the Philadelphia Symphony, one of the most well-known symphonies in the nation, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. Others have followed suit, or closed altogether, as in the case of the Bellevue, Washington Philharmonic. But as Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd notes, saving the American symphony is becoming an art form all its own.


Judge Gives Sonogram Law's Opponents Little Hope

January 23, 2012 · A new Texas law requiring women to have a sonogram 24 hours before having an abortion had its day in court Friday. But as KUT's Erika Aguilar reports, the federal judge presiding over the case gave little hope to opponents of the law.


Supreme Court Sends Redistricting Maps Back to Texas

January 20, 2012 · The Supreme Court is sending the redistricting maps back to the drawing board.


City Council Deflects Another Water Rate Hike

January 20, 2012 · The City Council is questioning a proposed SAWS rate increase.




How Did Rick Perry Fall?

January 20, 2012 · Now that Texas Governor Rick Perry has exited the race for the Republican presidential nomination, people may wonder what happened to his campaign. How did a candidate who joined the race as a frontrunner fall so far?


USDA Closes Border Research Facility

January 20, 2012 · A unique agricultural research center on the Texas-Mexico border will shut down because of funding cuts.


City Council Bans Smoking at Fiesta Parades

January 20, 2012 · This year's Fiesta parades will be smoke-free.



City Looks to Save Additional 6,000 Animals

January 19, 2012 · The San Antonio City Council approved a partnership between the Humane Society and San Antonio Pets Alive to promote a pet foster program.


Texans React to Keystone Decision

January 19, 2012 · Texans for and against the Keystone XL pipeline say President Obama's rejection of the pipeline today will affect the Lone Star State.


Websites Go Dark in Protest of SOPA

January 18, 2012 · Multiple websites have gone dark to protest the Stop Online Piracy Act. TPR's Joey Palacios Reports even San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro is against the bill as it stands.


In The Car, On TV, and Online: New Marketing Campaign by Animal Care Services

January 18, 2012 · Production is underway for an aggressive marketing campaign by Animal Care Services.


SAISD Ends Talks with Spurs Sports and Entertainment

January 18, 2012 · The potential for professional soccer at Alamo Stadium could be dead for now.


Authorities Bust Live Cockfight

January 18, 2012 · Bexar County Sheriff's deputies, the SWAT team and animal control busted a live cockfight over the weekend.


Southtown Neighborhood Speaks Up About Needed Quiet Zone

January 18, 2012 · Train horns blow day and night in a neighborhood that wants its peace and quiet. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports from the Lone Star neighborhood south of downtown.


Volunteer Fire Departments Fight Lack of Funds

January 18, 2012 · Texas volunteer fire departments have been left to scrape by because of an $18 million cut in grants from 2009 to today. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on what lawmakers are trying to do about the shortage of money while still protecting people.


City Prioritizes Program Funding Heading into 2020

January 17, 2012 · The city of San Antonio is thinking of ways to re-align how it spends money and which programs are important in the overall SA2020 plan.


Thousands March for MLK

January 17, 2012 · Over 100,000 people marched down Martin Luther King Drive Monday in memory of Dr. King.


Redistricting Trial Begins

January 17, 2012 · Political analysts say it's anyone's guess regarding the outcome of a trial to determine whether or not Texas violated the Voting Rights Act of 1965. That trial is underway today in Washington, D.C.


Perry Fights for Air at South Carolina Debate

January 17, 2012 · While most of last night's GOP presidential debate had the top tier candidates fighting amongst each other, Texas Governor Rick Perry was just trying to stay relevant.


83 Years Later, Civil Rights Leader Still Inspires Service

January 17, 2012 · Just before one of the largest MLK marches in the country, volunteers headed outdoors this weekend to clean, shovel, rake and paint. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd explains how Martin Luther King, Jr. is still inspiring service, 83 years after his birth.


Abandoned Homes, Vacant Lots Worry Residents on Heels of MLK March

January 17, 2012 · The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March runs along a route with abandoned houses and vacant lots that's become the focus of an overall east side cleanup. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on what's being done for growth and settlement in that area.


Councilman Proposes New Way to Fill Vacant Council Seats

January 17, 2012 · With the recent appointment of Leticia Ozuna to fill the District 3 City Council seat, one councilman is pushing for a change in the process.


SAISD Clarifies Intentions in Alamo Stadium Zoning Plans

January 17, 2012 · With emotions high on zoning changes for Alamo Stadium, the SAISD wants to clarify its intentions as it moves forward.


King William Park Dedicated

January 17, 2012 · A historic park that never had the proper recognition was formally dedicated Friday. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked with the great-great-great-grandson of the San Antonio icon, Don Pedro Huizar.


UTSA Receives Funds to Further Internet Security Research

January 17, 2012 · UTSA is receiving a large contribution from an alumnus towards its cyber security research programs.


Texas State University Receives Research Status Upgrade

January 17, 2012 · Texas State University has now been classified as an Emerging Research University.


Trial Over Redistricting Maps Set For Tuesday

January 13, 2012 · The battle over Texas' redrawn congressional districts will have its day in court on Tuesday.


The Rick Perry Action Figure

January 13, 2012 · Rick Perry may not be leading the polls in the GOP race for the White House, but he's got something that other candidates do not. He is now an action figure.


Blood Supply Critically Low

January 13, 2012 · The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is asking for blood donations, as its supply is critically low.


Soldier Receives Rare Autotransplant in San Antonio

January 12, 2012 · A soldier shot in the back by a sniper goes under the knife in San Antonio in a rare autotransplant of his own kidneys.


Local Authorities Prepare for Major Tornado Scenario

January 12, 2012 · A group of local, state, and federal emergency responders along with the military are holding disaster exercise today.


TxDOT Addressing Errant Drivers

January 12, 2012 · San Antonio has a grave problem with wrong-way drivers. The problem has gotten so bad that TxDOT is taking action.


City Receives Input on Infrastructure Bond

January 12, 2012 · In May, voters will decide on a $596 million bond package that addresses areas like parks, drainage, streets, bridges, sidewalks, and community initiatives. The city received input from the public on which projects are most important.


City Council Nearing Vote on District 3 Replacement

January 12, 2012 · Today the San Antonio City Council will vote on Jennifer Ramos' vacated District 3 council seat. Last night the council narrowed the field of seven down to three.


CPS Energy Secures Solar Deal

January 11, 2012 · CPS Energy has secured a proposal for the creation of additional Solar Energy in San Antonio.


Human Trafficking Summit Sheds Light on Child Victims

January 11, 2012 · Medical professionals and law enforcement officials are taking a candid look at human trafficking and how to intervene as soon as they spot a problem.


Voter Registration Card Mailing Delayed

January 11, 2012 · Voters registration cards are delayed from being mailed statewide due the redistricting fight.


Seniors Needed For Aspirin Study

January 11, 2012 · The UT Health Science Center is conducting a study on the effects aspirin has the elderly. The study needs local participants.


Lawmakers Concerned With Drought's Impact on Power Grid

January 11, 2012 · State leaders are becoming increasingly worried about the drought causing more brownouts and scaring businesses away from Texas.


Big Changes Behind the Scenes at the Woodlawn Theatre

January 11, 2012 · On-stage productions at the Woodlawn Theatre may look the same as they always have. But backstage, there is a big change in the works.


Immigrant Family Detention Could Return to Texas

January 11, 2012 · Undocumented families waiting for their immigration status to be determined could soon be held in detention centers in Texas. The federal government is reviewing contracts from companies interested in running such a facility.


MET-C Chief Takes Top Medical Technician Post in Washington

January 11, 2012 · The first-ever Command Chief who brought MET-C into reality in San Antonio is moving to Washington.


Council to Vote on Test Driving Car Share Program

January 10, 2012 · The Office of Environmental Policy will ask the city council Thursday for a three-year agreement on a new car share venture.


Second STRIDE Meeting to Curb East Side Violence

January 10, 2012 · Police officers and city staffers continue developing an action plan to address east side violence.


Pro-Soccer Field & Track Approved for Alamo Stadium

January 10, 2012 · Despite threats of a voter recall, the SAISD Board of Trustees approved placing a pro-soccer field in Alamo Stadium as part of bond renovations.


Supreme Court Considers Delaying TX Primary

January 10, 2012 · The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Monday in a case that could determine what Texas' legislative and congressional districts look like for the upcoming primaries. That election, now set for April 3, was already delayed a month by legal wrangling. Monday's hearing left open the possibility the primaries could be delayed further.


Bus, Meal Pass to Help Homeless After Aggressive Panhandling Ordinance

January 9, 2012 · Haven for Hope and the VA step in after San Antonio's recently adopted ordinance to stop aggressive panhandling.


San Antonio's Seniors Celebrate New Year's With a Trip Back in Time

January 9, 2012 · The Lopez Senior Center is full of the normal everyday activities. But in the back room, a time machine transports seniors to the days of old.


With Little Support in N.H., Perry Moves On to S.C.

January 9, 2012 · New Hampshire Republicans head to the polls tomorrow to select the candidate they want to run against President Barack Obama in the fall. Texas Governor Rick Perry isn't playing to the New Hampshire crowds. He's already in South Carolina, as Ben Philpott reports for KUT News and the Texas Tribune.


Texas Election Maps Before Supreme Court Today

January 9, 2012 · Legal teams from Texas are gathered at the U.S. Supreme Court today for arguments over which redistricting map should be used for this year's elections. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports the impact on minority voters is at issue.


Juvenile Detention Graduates Serve as Example to Other Residents

January 6, 2012 · It's graduation day for a class at the Cyndi Krier Juvenile Detention Center. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on the progress the men have made.


Research Seeks Better Understanding of PTSD in Soldiers Returning From War

January 6, 2012 · A San Antonio researcher is trying to better understand post-traumatic stress disorder to help soldiers returning from the war zone.


Occupy San Antonio Ends Fulltime Stay in HemisFair

January 6, 2012 · The Occupy San Antonio Movement is no longer staying in HemisFair Park 24/7. The group is reevaluating itself and plans to reorganize.


San Antonio Opera Cancels Show To Reorganize

January 6, 2012 · Each performance the San Antonio Opera puts on stage costs as much as $350,000. That's exactly how much debt the company is in. Interim Director Terence Frazor says the board of directors cancelled February's performance of "Don Giovanni" so it can reorganize and restructure its financial situation.


Analysts Dissect Governor Perry's Continued Campaign

January 6, 2012 · Political analysts are trying to get inside Governor Rick Perry's head to figure out why he's continuing his campaign for president.


Tiger Prawns Roar into the Gulf of Mexico

January 6, 2012 · Huge prawns that can grow over a foot long, are showing up in nets all along the Gulf Coast.  It might sound like a tasty surprise, but as KUT's Mose Buchele reports for StateImpact Texas, it's also a mystery that could threaten the ecosystem of the entire Gulf of Mexico.


SAISD Committee Rejects Proposal For Alamo Stadium Soccer Field

January 5, 2012 · An SAISD Citizens Oversight Committee has rejected a proposal to remove the track at Alamo Stadium to make way for a professional-sized soccer field.


If Perry Returns to Texas, What Challenges Await?

January 5, 2012 · Despite his fifth place loss in the Iowa GOP caucus, Governor Rick Perry will continue campaigning for president. While he's been away, Texans have grappled with the impacts of a historic drought, a newly invigorated fossil-fuel industry, and seen continued battles between state policymakers and the federal government over environmental regulation. For StateImpact Texas, KUT's Mose Buchele reports what challenges the Governor will face back at home, if he falls short in his bid for the White House.


Horses Offer Hope For Incarcerated Youth

January 5, 2012 · The Bexar County Juvenile Corrections Department will soon start up a program that's been in the works for years. Equine therapy is getting off the ground and expected to help youths discuss their emotions and understand themselves better.


Castro Responds To Boeing's Move

January 5, 2012 · San Antonio leaders say they can't take credit for the largest aerospace company in the world expanding in San Antonio, but they are looking forward to San Antonians taking advantage of the opportunity.


Boeing's Kansas Closure Sends Jobs To Alamo City

January 4, 2012 · New aerospace jobs are coming to San Antonio after Boeing announced it's closing a defense facility in Wichita.


Perry Staying In for "Actual Primaries"

January 4, 2012 · Governor Rick Perry says he'll return home to Texas to decide whether or not to continue in the GOP presidential race. That's after he came in fifth place in last night's Iowa Caucus.


City Looks To Reduce Downtown Parking Rates

January 4, 2012 · The city is taking a look at how to reduce parking rates downtown to increase the number of visitors.


Neti Pot Deemed Safe In San Antonio

January 4, 2012 · An under-the-radar allergy treatment has gained national attention after the deaths of two people in Louisiana who washed their sinuses with a neti pot. Despite warnings against neti pot use by the Louisiana Health Department, local officials are not concerned.


Perry Reassessing White House Bid

January 4, 2012 · Governor Rick Perry says he'll return home to Texas to decide whether or not to continue in the GOP presidential race. That's after he came in fifth place in last night's Iowa Caucus.


SAPD Meets With East Side Residents

January 4, 2012 · East side residents voice their concerns over crime and violence in the community. TPR's Ryan Loyd reports.


TxDOT To Widen I-10

January 3, 2012 · Construction has begun on a portion on I-10 to relieve packed lanes north of Huebner. TPR's Joey Palacios reports one exit will be permanently closed.


Paul Attracting Voters In Iowa

January 3, 2012 · In Texas, many Republicans consider Governor Rick Perry the leader of their state party. But in Iowa, there appears to be more voter enthusiasm for another Texas Republican, Congressman Ron Paul from Lake Jackson. KERA's Shelley Kofler has more from voters about why they're supporting Paul.


Rick Perry Hoping for Turnaround Tonight in Iowa

January 3, 2012 · The Iowa caucuses are finally here. Tonight Republicans in the Hawkeye state will select their favorite candidate to face off against President Barack Obama in November. KUT's Ben Philpott has been following Texas Governor Rick Perry as he criss-crossed Iowa over the last few weeks and reports on the final day of his tour.


Bacterial Meningitis Vaccine Now Required For College Students

January 3, 2012 · Some college students will need a new vaccine this semester.



Fatty's Improves Look, Adds Burgers to Menu for 2012

December 30, 2011 · The news coming from the city's east side isn't only bad. The group called SAGE, San Antonio for Growth on the East Side, is in its second year of its program and is now awarding its 17th store front grant. That means SAGE puts up some of the money, usually $10,000, and the business will match that amount.


Study: Latino Families Willing To Make Healthy Substitutes In Traditional Meals

December 30, 2011 · Latino children are among the more overweight ethnic groups in the nation. A new study seeks to find ways to help Latino parents make healthier choices in their diet without giving up their culinary heritage.


Giant Shrimp Invade the Gulf

December 30, 2011 · Little can be done to fight off a giant shrimp that's invading the Gulf of Mexico. State wildlife officials say it's threatening the native shrimp population and crab.


Hotels Booked, Celebrate SA Preps Underway

December 30, 2011 · Hotel rooms are nearly booked up and preparations for Celebrate San Antonio are in full swing. The workers making it all happen talk about what's new for the New Year's celebration this year.


Mexican Crime Victims May Find Help In U.S.

December 30, 2011 · Residents along the U.S.-Mexico border who are targeted by criminals in Mexico may get finanical relief in their home state.



State Health Services Issues Consumption Advisory On Sabine Lake

December 30, 2011 · The Washington Huskies and Baylor Bears take each other on in the 19th annual Alamo Bowl. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked to some of the fans bringing plenty of business to town.


Alamo Bowl a Big Win for Alamo City

December 29, 2011 · The Washington Huskies and Baylor Bears take each other on in the 19th annual Alamo Bowl. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked to some of the fans bringing plenty of business to town.


Taylor's Action Plan For The Eastside

December 29, 2011 · Next week a community will come together to talk about the increased number of shootings in the city's Eastside. Some city leaders have a few ideas for solutions to the problem.


Free/Discounted Cab Rides Offered On New Year's Eve

December 28, 2011 · Party-goers can receive a ride from yellow cab on the tab of someone else this weekend if they're too intoxicated to drive from downtown as officials aim for a 'fatalilty free New Year's Eve.'


Edwards Aquifer Authority Approves Habitat Conservation Plan

December 28, 2011 · The Edwards Aquifer Authority has committed to better protection for endangered species.


California's English Language Learner Programs Criticized

December 28, 2011 · California has the country's largest Hispanic student population and ranks at the bottom for reading and math achievement among Latino children. Experts are beginning to call for an overhaul of the school system.


Study: Diet Soda "Free Of Calories, But Not Of Consequences"

December 28, 2011 · Of the unique studies done in the medical research community in 2011, some of the most important findings came from San Antonio's UT Health Science Center.


New Property Tax Exemption For Veterans' Surviving Spouses

December 28, 2011 · Texas continues helping military veterans and their families. A full homestead property tax exemption that began in 2009 to help totally disabled military veterans will extend to their surviving spouses on January 1.


String Of East Side Shootings Prompts Concerns

December 27, 2011 · Since last week, 10 people have been injured in east side shootings; one man died. Residents like Stephon Finnell are taking notice.


TX Attorney General Defends Voter ID Law

December 27, 2011 · Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott is fighting for a controversial law that will take effect in less than a week. He is taking to Twitter to defend the state's voter ID law. It was passed by the 82nd Texas Legislature this year, requiring voters to present a photo ID at the ballot box.


Final U.S. Combat Brigade In Iraq Arrives In Ft. Hood

December 27, 2011 · The last U.S. combat brigade to leave Iraq arrived at Ft. Hood on Christmas Eve. One San Antonio soldier pulled into town just in time to spend the holiday with his family.


Mexicans Abroad Encouraged To Vote In Presidential Election

December 27, 2011 · The last presidential election in 2006 was the first time Mexicans expats had the right to vote, but just over 32,600 of the millions residing in the United States cast a ballot. The deadline for Mexicans to register to vote in 2012 is January 15.


Park Service Rehabilitating Old Border Smuggler Trails

December 27, 2011 · The National Park Service is beginning to map out hundreds of old smuggler roads along the Arizona border. The agency plans to return scarred land to natural desert.


Working To Re-vegetate Bastrop

December 27, 2011 · Central Texas nature organizations have pulled together $1,800, 450,000 native plant seeds, and 300 groups of Central Texas children to deliver some color to Bastrop's wildfire victims.


Judge Issues Opinion on Redistricting Maps

December 23, 2011 · A Washington, D.C. panel issued an opinion on standards the Texas legislature used to re-draw district lines. 


Salvation Army Red Kettle Program Short This Year

December 23, 2011 ·The local Salvation Army's Annual Red Kettle Program could be short several thousand dollars this year.


Auditors Find CBP Inspectors Lacking in Training

December 23, 2011 · Federal auditor: "We just don't want to get ourselves into a situation where dangerous individuals and cargoes can make into a port of entry without being detected."


Feds Target Immigration Scammers

December 23, 2011 · The logjam in Washington over immigration reform has led to an unintended consequence: fraud. For years, the federal government in San Antonio has targeted so-called "notarios," or scammers who promise miracles to immigrants who need legal papers. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg reports the effort is now gaining national attention.


Artist John Chamberlain Dies

December 23, 2011 · Artist John Chamberlain died on Wednesday in New York. One of the giants of Abstract Expressionism, he was best known for his large metal sculptures made of crushed cars. But he was proudest of his installation at the Chinati Foundation in the small West Texas town of Marfa.


Mountain Cedar is Here for the Holidays

December 23, 2011 · People who suffer from cedar allergies have been fortunate so far this season, but the reprieve may be coming to an end. A few days in a row of clear weather means those pollen counts will be going up.


Bright Forecast for Local Economy in 2012

December 22, 2011 · As 2011 draws to a close, economic forecasts for 2012 are looking up.


New School Finance Lawsuit Filed

December 22, 2011 · The fourth and what's expected to be the final school finance lawsuit was filed today in Austin. Among the 63 public school districts filing the suit are San Antonio's Northside ISD and Northeast ISD.


Emma Teneyuca Honored with State Marker

December 22, 2011 · A 1930's Latina labor activist is now honored with a historical marker at Milam Park. TPR's Joey Palacios reports.



Occupy SA Photograph Park Police Officer Sleeping

December 22, 2011 · Occupy San Antonio members are asking questions about a Park Police officer sleeping on the job in HemisFair Park after being told they can't doze off.



Texas Counties Tell Federal Judges They Can't Meet New Primary Deadline

December 22, 2011 · Texas counties are expressing serious concerns about the state's new primary election schedule.



EPA Issues New Mercury Rules

December 22, 2011 · The Environmental Protection Agency has released new rules on toxic chemicals pumped out by coal-fired power plants.



Texas Insurers Could Send Out $160 Million In Rebates Next Year — Maybe

December 22, 2011 · Starting in 2012, health insurance plans in Texas may have to cough up millions of dollars in rebates to customers. The provision is part of the national health reform law, the Affordable Care Act. It will apply to health plans that spend too much on administrative costs instead of medical care. But state officials are quietly working behind the scenes to push back the requirement for a few years.


Perry Hopes Bus Tour Will Turn Around Caucus Fortunes

December 22, 2011 · Today is the last day of Governor Rick Perry's 8-day bus tour through Iowa. Tomorrow Perry will return to Texas for a brief Christmas break. Then it's back to campaigning. KUT's Ben Philpott reports on whether this tour has helped his chances in the state.


A Stretch Of I-10 On SA's Northwest Side To Be Widened

December 22, 2011 · A major expansion of a portion of Interstate 10 on San Antonio's northwest side is about to begin. 


Bobby Jindal Joins Perry's Iowa Bus Tour

December 21, 2011 · With two weeks to the first vote of the 2012 presidential race, Texas Governor Rick Perry revved up his bus tour of Iowa Tuesday by bringing a long-time supporter along for the ride.


Broadnax Tapped to Lead City of Tacoma

December 21, 2011 · The city council of Tacoma, Washington voted to enter into contract negotiations with San Antonio Assistant City Manager T.C. Broadnax.



Texas Wildfires Scattered Birds to the Wind

December 21, 2011 · Bird watchers across the country are participating in the annual Christmas Bird Count this month. But in Central Texas the tradition has a special importance this year. For StateImpact Texas, KUT's Mose Buchele reports that the wildfires in Bastrop County and across Texas have conservationists paying close attention to local bird populations.


SA To Restore The "Donkey Barn"

December 20, 2011 · A 90-year-old stone building in Brackenridge Park is poised to get a renovation and function as an educational facility.



City Will Save Millions With Energy Retrofit

December 20, 2011 · A proposed energy efficiency retrofit will save San Antonio taxpayers half a million dollars a year. Lighting retrofits and window film to block the sun will be the first phase of a massive project to help the city cut down on energy costs.


Tamales Fight Hunger In SA's Tamalathon

December 20, 2011 · Thousands of tamales filled, rolled and steamed will directly benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. Mark Kent will tell you it's the most wonderful time of the year — to make tamales!


New Signs Reflect Increased Speed Limits On Highways

December 20, 2011 · You may notice certain speed limits on your way to work increasing. The Texas Department of Transportation is changing or taking down posted speed limit signs all over the state.


Study: Flashing Lights Are More Crash Prone Than Stop Signs

December 20, 2011 · Busy intersections controlled by flashing lights can be three times as crash-prone as intersections controlled by stop signs or other controls. UT Transportation Engineering Professor Chandra Bhat ran a study of 170 intersections in the city of Arlington and concluded that the safest controls for busy intersections are traffic signals. 


Occupy San Antonio Members Arrested

December 19, 2011 · At least six members of Occupy San Antonio were arrested this morning.



Food Bank Doles Out Fresh Food

December 19, 2011 · Children at nine SAISD schools are getting some food for thought. The San Antonio Food Bank and the Goldsbury Foundation are working to provide fresh fruits and veggies to kids and their families.


North Texas Earthquake This Weekend

December 19, 2011 · A 3.2 magnitude earthquake shook North Texas this past Saturday.


Texans May Lose Presidential Clout With April Primary

December 19, 2011 · A federal judge has signed off on an agreement to delay Texas' March primary election until April 3. That will give candidates time to adjust to final redistricting maps. But KERA's Shelley Kofler reports Texas may lose some of its influence in choosing a republican presidential nominee.


Electric Car Charging Stations Installed

December 19, 2011 · The city of San Antonio and CPS Energy installed a electric vehicle charging station at the Central Library.



Report Shows Steady Decline In TX Unemployment

December 16, 2011 · New unemployment figures for November show San Antonio and Texas making steady improvements. The State of Texas, as well as San Antonio specifically, show steady declines in unemployment rates for November.


Bi-Partisan Consensus On Primary Date

December 16, 2011 · Republicans and Democrats have agreed on the primary election date of April 3, removing Texas from March's Super Tuesday. The federal judges in San Antonio still need to sign off on the agreement.


Texas Candidates Make Final Case to Iowa

December 16, 2011 · Last night's Fox News Republican debate in Sioux City was billed as a chance for the GOP presidential candidates to give their closing arguments to Iowans. They'll hold the first-in-the-nation nominating contest on January 3rd.


San Antonio Ranked Best Performing City In U.S.

December 16, 2011 · The Milken Institute is out with its "Best-Performing Cities" for 2011, and San Antonio tops the list.
 


Fracking Report Reverberates in Texas

December 16, 2011 · A draft report from the Environmental Protection Agency sent shockwaves through the energy industry this week. The report showed that the technique of oil and gas drilling called hydraulic fracturing lead to water contamination in Pavillion, Wyoming. What could the findings mean for drilling in Texas? For StateImpact, Texas, KUT's Mose Buchele reports.   


City Council Accepts Ramos' Resignation

December 15, 2011 · San Antonio01 city council members officially accepted the resignation of District 3 Councilwoman Jennifer Ramos.
 


NASA Fosters Public-Private Ventures

December 15, 2011 · Houston's Johnson Space Center (JSC) has reached a high-tech deal to open its facilities and resources to outside projects now that NASA's shuttle program is retired.


Sinkin Criticizes 'Inaction' at U.N. Climate Conference

December 14, 2011 · Local business leader, environmentalist, and director of Solar San Antonio, Lanny Sinkin, is speaking out against what he calls "inaction" of world leaders at the recent U.N. climate conference. As Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, the conference produced little more than a compromise that extends the Kyoto Protocols for five more years.


Hospitals Must Adapt to Texas Medicaid Shake-up

December 14, 2011 · Texas is fighting to control costs in Medicaid, the insurance program for the poor and disabled. Now the federal government has given the state permission to move almost all Medicaid patients into managed care, as a way to save money. But the new freedoms come with strings attached. KUHF's Carrie Feibel reports from Houston. This story is part of a project on health care in the states, a partnership of KUHF, NPR and Kaiser Health News.


Occupy SA Holds Its Position In HemisFair

December 13, 2011 · This morning, the occupiers were approached by SAPD's park police and were asked to remove tarps used as shelter by some of those staying in HemisFair. The Occupy San Antonio movement will stay in HemisFair Park according to its members.


Rick Perry's Final Days in Iowa

December 13, 2011 · It's three weeks until the Iowa Caucus, the first election in the race for the GOP presidential nomination. In an effort to turn his recent fortunes around here, Texas Governor Rick Perry is set to embark on a 16-day bus tour of the state. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports from Iowa.


Poll: Latinos Lack Interest In 2012 Presidential Election

December 13, 2011 · A national poll released today shows Latinos are UN-happy with both major political parties. The poll posed several questions to Latino registered voters about their attitudes toward candidates and the 2012 election. Fronteras correspondent Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez reports.


National Guard To Pull Back From The Southwest Border

December 13, 2011 · No announcement has yet been made, but government officials say the deployment of National Guard soldiers at the US-Mexico border is about to change significantly. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg reports.


UTSA Receives $3 Million For Cyber Security Research Package

December 12, 2011 · The National Science Foundation awarded UTSA $3 million grant for some in-depth cyber security research. Texas Public Radios' Eileen Pace reports.


Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe

December 12, 2011 · Today is the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  It's a day revered by many Mexican and Mexican American Catholics. As Texas Public Radio's Yvette Benavides reports, it's also become a global celebration.


Assistant City Manager In Talks With Tacoma

December 9, 2011 · San Antonio Assistant City Manager T.C. Broadnax is in the running for a top city job in the Pacific Northwest. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd has the story.


San Marcos Posts Online Survey For Bag Ban

December 9, 2011 · The city of San Marcos is going online for public input on a plastic bag ban. The city council wants to hear from more residents about the topic.


New Fire Station On The South Side

December 9, 2011 · City leaders unveiled the new 12,669 square foot Fire Station 50 on the South Side. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports.


GAO Reports Concerns On Visa Waiver Program

December 9, 2011 · President Obama supports expanding a program that allows certain foreigners to come without a visa. But a new congressional report concludes that may not be such a good idea.


Tiny Algae Could Be Big Power Source

December 9, 2011 · Algae, that green slimy stuff that ruins swimming trips and clogs drains, is for most people a disgusting nuisance, but not to a group of researchers at UT Austin. For the StateImpact Texas project, KUT's Mose Buchele takes you into the lab to learn why scientists believe the cars of the future could run on algae.


Poll Shows Majority Hispanics Say Religion Has No Place In Politics

December 8, 2011 · A new poll shows a majority of Hispanics say religion has no place in politics. A national study by the polling group Latino Decisions came out on Thursday. From our Fronteras Desk, Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez reports.


Precinct 1 County Commissioner Race Taking Shape

December 8, 2011 · One city council member's fight for county government is on. District 3 Councilwoman Jennifer Ramos announced her candidacy for Bexar County Commissioner Precinct 1, currently held by Sergio "Chico" Rodriguez.


Bike Share Program Gaining Popularity

December 8, 2011 · San Antonio's Bike Share is in its ninth month. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd went for a test ride to see if it's been a success.


Salad Bars More Prevalent in Area Schools

December 8, 2011 · School lunches in San Antonio are becoming healthier thanks to federal stimulus money to focus on childhood obesity. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd has the reaction from students on the new salad bar at Roosevelt High School.


Holocaust Survivor Speaks to Nimitz Students

December 8, 2011 · Rose Williams, 84, one of three living Holocaust survivors in San Antonio. She spoke to students at Nimitz Middle School on December 2 about her experiences at the concentration camp.


OLLU Offers More Scholarships For Business Majors

December 8, 2011 · One local university is reaching out with scholarships to get more community college students to complete four year degrees.


KLRN-TV Doubles Broadcast Signal Power

December 7, 2011 · San Antonio's Public Television Station has gotten a power upgrade. KLRN is now broadcasting with a stronger signal. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies has more.


A Traveling WWI Exhibit Makes A Stop In San Antonio

December 7, 2011 · A traveling World War I exhibition is making a stop in San Antonio Wednesday. Texas Public Radio's Steve Short has the details.


Lanier High School Aims for Tamale Making Record

December 7, 2011 · Students at Lanier High School are looking to be put in the record books. This week they're prepping to make several thousand tamales on Wednesday with the help of the community. There are currently no Tamalada -related records in the Guinness World Records Book.


Researchers Convene for Breast Cancer Symposium

December 6, 2011 · Eight thousand oncologists, researchers, and advocates from around the world have come to the 34th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. Experts from San Antonio are expected to announce major drug research findings at the San Antonio event. The symposium is the largest breast cancer conference in the world.


A Mural To Encourage Positive Change For Youth Offenders

December 5, 2011 · According to staff reports, half of all the residents at the Cyndi Krier Juvenile Correctional Center in south Bexar County will reoffend. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd found out how a Colorado artist hopes his message will discourage repeat crime.


Change of Command, U.S. Army North at Fort Sam Houston

December 5, 2011 · Lt. Gen. Guy Swan III relinquished command of U.S. Army North during ceremonies at Fort Sam Houston Friday. Swan retires after more than 35 years of service, his last two years at Fort Sam. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


CPS Energy; ERCOT: Electricity Generation May Not Meet Demand

December 2, 2011 · With predictions from the operator of the state's power grid that energy usage may surpass demand, CPS Energy explains what that means for San Antonio. TPR's Joey Palacios reports.


Gas Prices Are Down Again

December 2, 2011 · You may have noticed the signs at the gas stations. The price for a gallon of gas at some San Antonio pumps has fallen below $3 for the first time in many months.


GOP Hispanics Oppose Perry

December 2, 2011 · A national conservative Hispanic group is calling for Texas Governor Rick Perry to drop out of the presidential race. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg has more.


Nation's Oldest Four-Star General Left His Mark On San Antonio

December 2, 2011 · San Antonio is set to say farewell to the nation's oldest four-star general this weekend. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


We're Drugging Our Foster Kids, GAO Report Says

December 2, 2011 · State and federal authorities are not doing a good enough job overseeing psychotropic medications for foster children. That's according to a new report from the Government Accountability Office. The GAO looked at rates of medicating foster children in five states – including Texas. As KUT's Matt Largey reports, investigators found high rates of potentially risky practices here.


85-Year-Old Woman To Be Sentenced For Human Smuggling

December 1, 2011 · An 85 year-old woman will be sentenced today in San Diego for four decades of human smuggling operations across the U.S.-Mexico border. From our Fronteras Desk, Ruxandra Guidi reports.


NuStar Explosion Contained Quickly

November 30, 2011 · A South side refinery that caught fire last year has had an explosion once again. TPR's Joey Palacios reports.


Apollo 13 Items Auctioned

November 30, 2011 · A unique “space” auction got underway in Dallas this morning, and, as Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports, some of the unique items sold are among the last that will ever be available from their original owners.


Hasan Attorneys Seek Judge's Recusal

November 30, 2011 · A military judge has refused to step down in the case of an Army psychiatrist charged in the Fort Hood shooting rampage.


Ciro Rodriguez Files for Congressional District 35

November 30, 2011 · Former Congressman Ciro Rodriguez has announced his bid to run for a new Texas seat in the U.S House.


Endorsement Renews Immigration Focus

November 30, 2011 · Texas Governor Rick Perry picked up a substantial endorsement when Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio joined him on the campaign trail in New Hampshire. At least some of Gov. Perry’s dramatic tumble from the top spot in the GOP primary has been attributed to what some call his “soft” stance on illegal immigration.


AMR, American Airlines Parent, Files For Bankruptcy

November 30, 2011 · Even though American Airlines' parent, AMR, filed for bankruptcy Tuesday, passengers may see no changes in the carrier's operations.


In McAllen, Guatemala Opens Its First Border Consulate

November 29, 2011 · The growing exodus of Guatemalan emigrants to the United States has prompted that country to open its first-ever border consulate.


Fast and Furious Gun-Walking Operation May Stretch To Texas

November 29, 2011 · An ongoing scandal over U.S. weapons arming Mexican drug cartels may soon expand from Arizona to Texas.  A Texas senator has teamed up with colleagues in Washington to investigate whether the scandal over the Fast and Furious gun-walking operation stretches to Texas.


San Marcos May Ban The Plastic Bag

November 29, 2011 · Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports on a possible plastic bag ban in San Marcos.


Students In Solar Energize UTSA

November 29, 2011 · New solar panels at UTSA are opening the door to new research and partnership opportunities. Students interested in this field are the most important part of the project.


Outer Loop In New Braunfels Goes To City Council

November 28, 2011 · Opponents of an outer loop around the city of New Braunfels are set to present an alternate transportation plan to the city council Monday night.


Archbishop Garcia-Siller Celebrates One Year

November 28, 2011 · San Antonio’s Archbishop held a mass last Wednesday in honor of his one year anniversary in the Alamo City.


Local Shop Owners Hope to Score This Holiday Season

November 28, 2011 · This year, a big push away from corporate America could drive more people to shop local. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd explores the deals local shop owners are hoping to score this holiday season.


State Rep. Joaquin Castro Seeks TX-20th Congressional Seat

November 28, 2011 · With Congressman Charlie Gonzalez not seeking re-election, local State Representative Joaquin Castro is running for his seat. Former Congressman Ciro Rodriguez is also trying to reclaim a place in Congress.


Mexican Consumers Flock to the U.S. for Holiday Sales

November 28, 2011 · Some Mexican shoppers traveled a long way to get in on Black Friday sales along the U.S.-Mexico border.


Congressman Charlie Gonzalez Will Not Seek Reelection

November 28, 2011 · Congressman Charlie Gonzalez, who represents San Antonio in the 20th District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives, announced he will not seek reelection. 


Crime Drops Significantly After East Side Clean Up

November 23, 2011 · Cleaning up the east side is more than brooms and buckets. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on a fix-up project that appears to also be wiping out crime.


Preparations Underway for Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner

November 23, 2011 · It’s all hands on deck downtown at the Convention Center as volunteers prepare for the annual Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports.


Castro and Doggett to Avoid Ballot Face-off

November 23, 2011 · A just released redrawn congressional map of Texas puts an end to the fight over the newly minted 35th congressional district of Texas. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies has more.


Evangelicals Assert Their Role in Primary

November 23, 2011 · While national security was the focus of last night’s GOP debate – some conservative voters believe the topic should take a back seat to more spiritual matters. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on the role of Christian conservatives in the 2012 Republican presidential race.


Turkey Fires, Not So Much in Bexar Co.

November 22, 2011 · Texas is said to be number one in the number of deep-fried turkey fires. But, Bexar County and San Antonio residents seem to be practicing safer frying methods.


Escaped Tigers and Panthers in North Bexar County a False Alarm

November 22, 2011 · Reports that three tigers escaped from a home in the 27,000 block of O’Kent prompted the lockdown of nearby Timberwood Park Elementary. TPR's Joey Palacios reports that as it turns out, the tigers never even left their cages.


Dallas Prepares for Anniversary of JFK Assassination

November 22, 2011 · Today marks the 48th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's assassination in downtown Dallas. As always on this date, Dealey Plaza draws more tourists than usual. KERA's Bill Zeeble talked to some of them, and also has more on plans for the 50th anniversary.


Transgender Day of Remembrance Observed in San Antonio

November 21, 2011 · Sunday was a day of remembrance for transgender people in San Antonio. Community members gathered at City Hall for a memorial in the evening and remained overnight.


John Jay HS Donates 3 Tons of Food to St. Vincent de Paul

November 18, 2011 · A local high school has donated over 6,000 pounds of food to Saint Vincent de Paul.




Alamo Plaza Christmas Tree Arrives

November 18, 2011 · Another local school district has decided to join the statewide school funding lawsuit last night. Judson ISD is the second district this week to do so.


Judson ISD Joins Statewide School Funding Lawsuit

November 18, 2011 · Another local school district has decided to join the statewide school funding lawsuit last night. Judson ISD is the second district this week to do so.


In Texas, Confidence that Tar Sands Crude Will Find a Way to the Gulf

November 18, 2011 · The Obama administration’s decision to put off construction of parts of the Keystone XL crude oil pipeline was lauded by environmentalists. The plan is to pipe oil from the Tar Sands of Alberta, Canada, to the Gulf Coast of Texas. Despite that delay, many investors and industry observers in Texas think they already know how the cards will fall. For the State Impact Texas project from KUT and KUHF, Mose Buchele reports.


Spurs Pay Their Rent, Regardless of Lockout

November 18, 2011 · Bexar County leaders are not concerned about who’s paying for the AT&T Center while the NBA and players work out their differences. The facility is the responsibility of the San Antonio Spurs, with or without a playing season.


Reporting Child Abuse Mandatory in Texas

November 18, 2011 · As the almost daily revelations continue over the alleged abuse by a former Penn State assistant football, many wonder how such activities could have gone on so long without being reported. According to Pennsylvania state law, the coach who did report seeing what he thought was sexual abuse to his supervisor was not obligated to tell the police. KUT’s Ben Philpott reports what would happen in Texas.


Halliburton To Open Operations Center In South Bexar County

November 17, 2011 · Oil and gas services company Halliburton broke ground today on a new complex that will bring hundreds of jobs to San Antonio.


New Agreement Protects Warbler

November 17, 2011 · An agreement among Bexar County, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Army strikes a balance between protecting endangered species and military training needs.


Northside ISD Joins School Finance Lawsuit

November 16, 2011 · San Antonio’s largest school district has joined the statewide lawsuit against inequities in school funding.


Red Ventures Looking to Hire in San Antonio

November 16, 2011 · Marketing company Red Ventures is looking to hire people in San Antonio. They’re hosting a career fair on Friday.


Feds: Sinaloa Cartel Discussed Attacking U.S. Targets

November 16, 2011 ·Some of Mexico’s most wanted allegedly discussed the plot: Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán and Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada. The plan was to strike a government building or American media outlet, possisbly with a rocket launcher, and make it look like it was done by a rival cartel.


Study: Immigrants In U.S. Assimilating Well

November 16, 2011 · A new study examining the latest Census data finds those who emigrate to the U.S., especially young immigrants, are assimilating well.



Boys and Girls Club Celebrates 20 Years of Free Thanksgivings

November 16, 2011 ·The turkey, dressing and all the trimmings are being set on tables across the city. The Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio continues their long-standing tradition.



Despite Setbacks In Other Cities, Occupy SA Continues Peacefully

November 16, 2011 · Yesterday, a federal judge ruled that evicted Occupy Wall Street Protesters cannot return to Zucotti Park with tents, tarps, generators or camping equipment. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd wondered how Occupy protesters in San Antonio felt about the news.


Parks Department Seeks Youth Musicians

November 16, 2011 · The Parks and Recreation Department is asking musicians and singers, ages 13 to 18, to audition for department’s youth band, Take Note.


Streetcar System On Track

November 15, 2011 · Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports that Bexar County is now officially on track for a the proposed streetcar system.


Working With Autism

November 15, 2011 · Almost one percent of all children in the United States have been diagnosed with Autism – a number that has risen dramatically over the past ten years. For many parents, their biggest concern is what to do when those children become adults. As KUT’ s Nathan Bernier reports, some of them are making it on their own.


State Sen. Zaffirini's District 21 "Torn to Shreds" And Uncertain

November 14, 2011 ·Three San Antonio federal judges are set to draw interim voting maps. A trial was set to begin Monday here in the Alamo City, but the judges felt time would be better spent re-drawing the maps. Senator Judith Zaffirini believes her district that runs through Bexar County was torn to shreds.


Partnership Between SAT and Interjet Takes Off

November 14, 2011 · A new connection between San Antonio and Mexico will begin December 1. Interjet’s flights are reported to bring the economic and cultural benefits to the U.S. and Mexico.


Starbucks Brews Donations For Jobs

November 14, 2011 · The Create Jobs For USA Fund surpassed $1 million in donations in just two weeks. Starbucks brews and wristbands helped achieve the milestone.


“Smishing” Scam Hits South Texas

November 14, 2011 ·The Better Business Bureau is warning South Texas residents about a new scam involving your cell phone’s text messages. The practice is called “smishing,” and you may have already received text messages using the practice.


Joint IH-35 Transit Study To Be Conducted

November 14, 2011 · Two transit organizations are conducting a study on improvements to Interstate 35 in San Antonio and want your input. The Alamo Regional Mobility Authority and the Texas Department of Transportation are launching the I-35 Planning and Environmental Linkages Study for improvements to the corridor between downtown San Antonio and FM 1103 near Guadalupe and Comal counties.


Former Texas Public Radio Host Jim Leonard Dies at 61

November 11, 2011 · Former long-time KSTX host Jim Leonard has died after an over 20-year battle with heart disease.


Veterans Day Brings First Texas Patriot Festival to Fort Sam Houston

November 11, 2011 · Veterans and service members will be honored in a big way at Fort Sam on Veterans Day at the inaugural Texas Patriot Festival this evening. 


Sandusky Scandal Reaches Alamo City

November 11, 2011 · Penn State’s trip to the Alamo Bowl in 1999 has attracted the interest of the San Antonio Police Department amid allegations of child sex abuse involving former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky.


Veterans Across Generations Share The Same Struggles

November 11, 2011 ·Today is Veterans Day. While many people take the day to say “thank you” to veterans, some service men and women say that just getting back on their feet is all the gratitude they need — no matter how old they are. Some veterans think Texas can do a better job honoring the job they did for their country.


Report: Social Studies Guidelines Not Aligned With College Standards

November 10, 2011 · Social studies standards adopted by the Texas State Board of Education will leave students unprepared for college. That’s according to a new report by a professor of history at the University of Texas at El Paso. KUT’s Nathan Bernier reports.


Confederate Plate Rejected

November 10, 2011 · Texas officials struck down a proposal for a new Confederate flag license plate. But as Fronteras Correspondent Hernán Rozemberg reports, the controversy is far from over.


County Ups Investment in VIA Streetcar Project

November 10, 2011 · Bexar County announced Thursday an additional $37 million will be invested in VIA’s new streetcar system.


Perry Campaign Begins Damage Control

November 10, 2011 · Political operatives, reporters and pundits alike agreed: the biggest story to come out of last nights Republican debate in Michigan was Governor Rick Perry’s gaffe. As Ben Philpott reports for KUT News and the Texas Tribune, the more important story is what his performance on stage may have started behind the scenes.


SAMA Jade Exhibits Smartphone Technology

November 10, 2011 · A trip into ancient China through the San Antonio  Museum of Art’s new jade exhibit is enhanced by some cutting-edge technology. Visitors  can temporarily capture the once-in-a-lifetime exhibit electronically.


Job Fair For “The Right Person At The Right Time”

November 9, 2011 ·The Texas job unemployment rate stands at 8.5%, the highest since June of 1987. But just before Thanksgiving and Christmas, San Antonians are getting a little bit of hope on the job front. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports from Congressman Lamar Smith's job fair at the Live Oak Civic Center.


Juárez Murder Victims Get A Memorial; Families Still Seek Justice

November 9, 2011 · A Mexican official inaugurated the still unfinished memorial to murdered women and asked for "forgiveness.” Some in attendance shouted back: “Your apology does not take away our pain!”


Voters Approve $399 Million NEISD Bond

November 9, 2011 · Voters in the Northeast Independent school district narrowly approved a multimillion dollar bond last night. TPR’s Joey Palacios explains on how it will benefit the district.


Controversy Over Confederate Flag Plate In Texas

November 9, 2011 · Critics contend the plate resurrects and legitimizes slavery. Supporters say they are simply trying to honor Confederate soldiers.


New Braunfels Voters Pass The Ban

November 9, 2011 · Residents of New Braunfels went to the polls in record numbers on Election Day to vote on an ordinance that would ban disposable containers on the rivers inside the city limits. 


Bilingualism May Boost Learning Abilities

November 9, 2011 · Researchers at UTSA received funding to study how bilingualism affects a person’s ability to learn other concepts, such as math.


Texas Stands Out On Polluter List

November 9, 2011 ·This week, KUT News is teaming with NPR on a project highlighting industrial air pollution.  NPR reporters, working with the Center for Public Integrity, reviewed never-before published lists compiled by the U-S Environmental Protection Agency to track polluters.  Roughly one in 10 factories on the most recent list is in Texas.  Some of those facilities have been on the watch list for years. For the KUT/KUHF StateImpact Texas project, Mose Buchele reports on the regulatory environment that allows industries to keep polluting, which one former TCEQ commissioner describes as “byzantine.”


Voters Overwhelmingly Choose To Dissolve BexarMet

November 9, 2011 · BexarMet customers overwhelmingly voted to dissolve the water utility. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports.


Mixed Results on Election Day

November 9, 2011 · Seven of 10 proposed state constitutional amendments were given voter approval last night. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Federal Court Rules Republican Redistricting 'Improper'

November 8, 2011 · A Washington, D.C.-based Federal Court Tuesday ruled that the Republican controlled Legislature in Texas used improper methods for determining new district lines.


Jones Withdraws Bid For U.S. Senate

November 7, 2011 · Texas Railroad Commission chairwoman Elizabeth Ames Jones is dropping her bid to become a U.S. Senator.


Dwayne Adams On Trial With Democrats

November 7, 2011 · All Democrats in Texas are on trial. That’s according to a practicing Democrat and former Bexar County precinct chair watching the trial of Dwayne Adams. He’s the former treasurer for the Bexar County Democratic Party, and he’s accused of stealing money from the party’s primary fund.


Bilingual Babies: The Earlier, The Better

November 7, 2011 · A joint study between UTSA and the University of Washington in Seattle suggests that children who are spoken to in two languages from birth have an easier time learning that second language as they get older. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Pecan Prices on the Rise

November 7, 2011 · You may think twice about adding one traditional item to your Thanksgiving meal this year. That’s because the price of pecans continues to go up. From the Fronteras Desk in Phoenix, Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez reports.


Skinner Receives Stay of Execution

November 7, 2011 · Death row inmate Hank Skinner received a second stay of execution by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. KUT's Matt Largey reports.


Border Patrol To Curb Presence At Transportation Centers

November 7, 2011 · An agency spokesman won't answer questions about the new policy. Some current and former agents question the change in strategy.


Texans On The Issues

November 7, 2011 · Many Texans believe the biggest issues facing the country are different than those facing Texas. That's the result of a statewide poll conducted by the University of Texas and the Texas Tribune. KERA's Shelley Kofler takes a look.


$2 Million Goes To Research Liver Cancer in Hispanics

November 4, 2011 · The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas has awarded scientists at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio $2 million to study why local Hispanics suffer twice as many cases of liver cancer as people in the rest of the country.


Air Force to Cut 800 Positions at Joint Base San Antonio

November 4, 2011 · Hundreds of positions are expected to be cut within Joint Base San Antonio in the coming months. TPR’s Joey Palacios reports on the Air Force’s nationwide reductions and how it affects home


Burbank H.S. Trainer Arrested for Placing Camera in Restroom

November 4, 2011 · Police in the San Antonio Independent School District have arrested a Burbank High School athletic trainer for placing a camera in a boy’s restroom.


EPA To Probe Fracking Technique

November 4, 2011 ·The Environmental Protection Agency is set to start a federal probe into whether the controversial drilling technique known as hydraulic fracturing is spoiling and diminishing drinking water supplies.


Drive Alert, Arrive Alive

November 4, 2011 · It’s not a crime to drive drowsy, but San Antonio is taking a stand against it. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd spoke to one woman victimized by a person tired behind the wheel.


City Council Continues to Vet Panhandling Ordinance

November 4, 2011 · A unanimous vote by city council sends an aggressive panhandling ordinance back to the drawing board again. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd explains why.



Interim Redistricting Maps Are Presented in Court

November 3, 2011 · While a Washington, D.C. court decides how to handle lawsuits filed over Congressional redistricting in Texas, a three-judge panel in San Antonio continues hearing testimony. Witnesses presented interim map plans in federal court today.


Valero Request for Tax Break Draws Protest

November 3, 2011 · Early Wednesday morning, a caravan of buses set out from the Houston area, headed for Austin and the headquarters of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. KUT's Mose Buchele reports on the protest against a request from Valero Energy Corp. for tax breaks for some of its oil refineries through a system that could give millions of dollars back to one of Texas’s most profitable corporations.


The Quest To Recover A Job Training Program

November 3, 2011 · A workforce training program on the brink of disaster is being brought back to life. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd explains how Project Quest will continue to serve people in San Antonio.


Children of Deported Parents Ending Up in Foster Care

November 2, 2011 · A new report takes a look at this year's record number of deportations, and finds that a growing number of children of deported immigrants are ending up in foster care in the U.S. From our Fronteras Desk, Ruxandra Guidi has our story.


Texas Adds Construction Jobs, Bucks Nationwide Trends

November 2, 2011 · More than half the nation's metro areas lost construction jobs in the last year, but none of those jobs were lost in Texas cities. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


November is National Novel Writing Month

November 2, 2011 · San Antonio writers are getting their thinking caps on. It's National Novel Writing Month, referred to as NaNoWriMo. As Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports, published works come out of the event, but many say the real fun is just in writing.


Courthouse Stretch of South Main Considered for Permanent Closure

November 1, 2011 · A major downtown street my be closed permanently to vehicle traffic. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports.


SAMM Ministries Asks For Dinette Donations

November 1, 2011 · There may be more families that need some help to provide a Thanksgiving dinner this year. There also are families with no furniture where they can serve that dinner. SAMM Ministries’ Furniture For A Cause is asking for 50 gently-used dinette sets to give directly to families in need.


Bexar County Clerk Preserves the Alamo Name

November 1, 2011 ·  History is alive and well in downtown San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports on the exploration of valuable Spanish archives and how the name “The Alamo” is now in the right hands.


Bi-Partisan Compromise May Map Re-Districting

October 31, 2011 ·  A panel of three federal judges are taking up district maps drawn by the Texas Legislature that many say are unfair to minority voters. As Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports, the court is trying to come up with an interim plan in time for the primaries next March.


State Park Rangers Target Burros And Kill 130

October 31, 2011 ·  More questions are being raised about the veracity of a recent state report that asserts the Texas side of the Texas-Mexico border is a “war zone.”


Statesman Analysis of Border Violence Challenges “War Zone” State Report

October 31, 2011 ·  More questions are being raised about the veracity of a recent state report that asserts the Texas side of the Texas-Mexico border is a “war zone.”


Prop 6 Would Move Money to Public Schools

October 31, 2011 ·  Proposition 6 would allow the Texas Land Commissioner to transfer hundreds of millions of dollars to public education. From KUT in Austin, Ben Philpott reports.


Proposal to Waive Interlocal Tax Payment

October 28, 2011 · This fall’s constitutional election ballot has a proposal that supporters say would make it easier and cheaper for local governments to enter into contracts with their neighbors.


Mason Gun Dealer Refuse to Teach Concealed Carry Class to Muslims

October 28, 2011 · A Central Texas gun dealer is under fire for his radio advertisement to teach a concealed gun license class to anyone but those who voted for President Barack Obama, Arabs and Muslims.


Economist Defends Project Quest

October 27, 2011 · Project Quest remains on the defensive after a blistering attack by the chair of the Texas Workforce Commission. Now, a noted economist is praising the San Antonio job training program.


Drought Prompts Move To Artificial Turf At Texas High Schools

October 27, 2011 · The drought in Texas is shrinking a little bit. A new report from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows the percentage of Texas in the worst drought stage — D4, or exceptional — shrank to 70 percent. But as KUT's Nathan Bernier reports, the worst single-year dry spell in Texas history still has school districts thinking about what to do with their football fields.


Prop 4 Aims to Ease Development

October 27, 2011 · Early voting for the November 8 election continues. Texans are voting on 10 constitutional amendments, dealing with everything from property taxes to county bonds. KUT’s Andy Uhler looks at Proposition Four on this fall's ballot.


City Council Takes A Lesson From SAPD Academy

October 27, 2011 ·San Antonio’s police chief says a bold new direction is making the streets safer. As Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports, council members tasked with public safety planning went behind the scenes at the training academy to find out how the force is changing.


Janet Napolitano Scrutinized By Congress Over New Deportation Measures

October 27, 2011 · The Department of Homeland Security is under scrutiny in Congress over recent changes to immigration enforcement, including deportations.


Family Justice Center Receives Grant For Domestic Violence Prevention

October 27, 2011 · The Bexar County Family Justice Center has received a grant to raise awareness of domestic abuse to local middle school and high school students.


Diwali Lights Up HemisFair

October 27, 2011 · Diwali, also known as Deepavali, begins this week in India. For the third year in a row, San Antonio will celebrate with a festival next weekend at HemisFair Park.

 


Unemployed Find Few Solutions From Politicians

October 26, 2011 · With critical issues facing the country, San Antonio Congressman Lamar Smith learned his constituents are worried about the government's debt and the unemployment rate. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports on what people feel lawmakers are doing about the problem.


The Eastside Blooms With SAGE

October 26, 2011 · Dozens of new jobs are opening up on the city’s Eastside. It’s the result of the non-profit San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside (SAGE) that matches business owner dollars for renovations. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd stopped by Sausage Hauze and found out how the grant is starting to redevelop a whole neighborhood.


Zero-Energy Homes On The Rise In SA

October 26, 2011 · Build San Antonio Green and KB Homes have announced a partnership to create energy-efficient homes in San Antonio, and they have debuted one of the first zero-energy usage homes in the city.


"No Refusal" Any Day

October 24, 2011 · No Refusal is now expanding to seven days a week. In Bexar County, drivers who are detained for DWI and refuse a breathalyzer test will have their blood drawn.


SA2020 Proceeds To Serve SA

October 24, 2011 · Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Bexar County Sheriff’s Department, have begun their annual crisis intervention training. This year, the training is at St. Philip’s College.


Sheriff’s Dept. Continues Crisis Intervention Training

October 24, 2011 · Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Bexar County Sheriff’s Department, have begun their annual crisis intervention training. This year, the training is at St. Philip’s College.


Ranchers Ask Perry to Bring Hay to Drought-Ridden Texas

October 24, 2011 · Drought conditions across Texas have ranchers dealing with a critical shortage of affordable hay for their horses and livestock. One group is asking Governor Rick Perry to get involved and provide relief.


Death Row Inmate Hank Skinner Seeks DNA Evidence

October 24, 2011 · Hank Skinner is due to be executed on November 9, and today his case will be heard in an Amarillo federal court. Skinner is fighting a legal battle gain access to evidence he says will prove he’s not a triple murderer.


Battle Looms Over Confederate Plates

October 21, 2011 · The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Board is once again considering whether to approve specialty license plates displaying the Confederate battle flag. KUT's Crystal Chavez reports.


Despite Opposition, Streetcar Project Moves Ahead

October 21, 2011 · San Antonio’s proposed streetcar project is on track to move forward with a city-backed investment and partnerships with the county and VIA. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd reports from City Hall on the strong opposition that wants city leaders to railroad the idea.


UTSA Gets Phi Kappa Phi Chapter

October 20, 2011 · UTSA is being awarded a chapter of the oldest honor society in the country. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.

 


Halloween Candy to be Sent to Soldiers

October 20, 2011 · Parents who don't want their children to consume all of the sugary candy they receive at Halloween can enlist the kids' to help cheer up soldiers overseas. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes South Texas

October 20, 2011 · South Texas felt a rare earthquake this morning. The epicenter was near the Atascosa and Karnes County line. TPR's Joey Palacios reports from Pleasanton.


Courthouse Break-in Deemed a Prank

October 20, 2011 · The break-in at the Bexar County Courthouse Wednesday morning by five foreign nationals could have been only a prank according to Sheriff Amadeo Ortiz. TPR's Joey Palacios has the story.


Foreign Suspects Break Into Bexar County Courthouse

October 19, 2011 · Five foreign suspects are in the custody of the Bexar County Sheriff's Office after a break-in at the Bexar County Courthouse this morning. TPR's Joey Palacios reports that both Homeland Security and the FBI are investigating.


Perry, Romney Get Heated Over Immigration

October 19, 2011 · Texas Governor Rick Perry appeared to have turned in his strongest debate performance of his Presidential campaign last night in Las Vegas. Instead of defending his record as governor, Perry went on the offensive against his chief opponent Mitt Romney. For KUT and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reviews Perry's strategy.


Texas Groups Oppose Ballot Measures

October 18, 2011 · Three grassroots organizations are taking a stand against two state propositions that are on the November ballot. TPR's Joey Palacios explains.


GetEQUAL TX Protests Same Sex Marriage Ban

October 18, 2011 · Several same-sex couples were married in a group ceremony at the Bexar County Courthouse Saturday as part of a GetEQUAL protest for marriage equality. TPR's Joey Palacios reports.


Drug Cartels Recruit Teenagers

October 14, 2011 · The Texas Department of Public Safety is warning that Mexican drug cartels are recruiting high school students in the state. TPR's Joey Palacios reports.


Perry Relies on Energy to Power Jobs

October 14, 2011 · Today, Governor Rick Perry announced initial details of his plan to create jobs in America. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott looks at how his plan to create jobs could also affect the country's energy policy and consumption.


SAPD, County and U.S. Marshals Wrap Gang Round-Up

October 14, 2011 · During a recent 17 week operation, a multi-agency task force arrested more than 200 members of multiple gangs in San Antonio, including the Tango Orejón. TPR’s Joey Palacios reports on the operation and who was involved.


Ford Promotes Energy Efficient Vehicles

October 14, 2011 · You have a choice and Ford Motor Company wants you to know it. The auto giant toured the Alamo City, touting energy efficiency and more affordable electric vehicles at the UTSA Downtown Campus. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd went for a test drive and found out how CPS Energy is also getting involved in the future of fuel savings.


Bank Debit Card Fees Spark Interest in Local Credit Unions

October 14, 2011 · Starting soon, it's possible your bank may start charging you to use your debit card, causing outrage among the masses. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd talked to the California woman encouraging people to drop their big bank, and found out local credit unions are getting hundreds of calls to sign up for new accounts.


Protesters Speak Up In Support of Obama's Jobs Bill

October 14, 2011 · President Barack Obama's American Jobs Act bill has gone nowhere fast. Protestors near Von Ormy want people to get back to work, and they say an overpass near that small town is a good place to start. But as Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd explains, building a bridge between opposite views is still miles away.


UT Health Science Center Opens New Research Facility

October 14, 2011 · The University of Texas Health Science Center has expanded once again with a new facility containing over 40 new laboratories. TPR's Joey Palacios explains its benefit for San Antonio.


Your Peso Is Good For Pizza

October 13, 2011 · Economic turbulence is one of the reasons the Mexican peso is weakening in value. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd found out how the peso looks long-term and whether businesses are worried.


Feds Take Small Step To Help Foreign Students Study, And Stay

October 13, 2011 · Close to 700,000 international students study on U.S. college campuses, and the majority of those students head home after they graduate. The federal government wants to keep many of them here, especially those in the so-called STEM fields — science, technology, engineering and math. From our Fronteras Desk, Jill Replogle reports on recent efforts to expedite the visas process.


Border Business: Maquiladora Workers Organize For Better Treatment

October 13, 2011 · Foreign-owned manufacturing factories along the border in Mexico have been hailed as an economic blessing. But there’s another side to that story. Many workers and labor unions complain of poor work conditions, low pay and health risks. Most don’t dare speak up for fear of being fired. For the last segment of our Border Business series, Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg talked to some workers to share their stories.


Services Set For Fallen Hero

October 12, 2011 · Services have been set for a fallen hero from San Antonio. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Benjamin Whetstone Schmidt was killed while on patrol in Afghanistan, October 6. Eileen Pace reports.


Reviewing Perry’s Message from Economic Debate

October 12, 2011 · As the Republican presidential candidates took turns giving their ideas for fixing the U.S. economy during last night’s debate, the Texas economy — and Governor Rick Perry’s handling of it — were on display. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on how the governor’s debate rhetoric matches his record and results in Texas.


DA Investigates Former Bexar Met Executive

October 12, 2011 · The Bexar County District Attorney’s Office has launched an investigation into allegations that a former BexarMet executive accepted an illegal gift from one of the utility’s contractors. TPR’s Joey Palacios reports.


Saudi Ambassador Murder Plot Has Ties To U.S.-Mexico Border

October 12, 2011 · A man with potential South Texas ties was arrested Tuesday as part of an international assassination plot involving Mexico. Hernán Rozemberg explains.



23-Year-Old East Central High School Teacher Dies

October 12, 2011 · Administrators say the 23-year-old teacher died after collapsing at the high school before classes began Monday. TPR’s Joey Palacios has the story.


African American Faith Leaders Unite For Photo

October 12, 2011 · Bishops and pastors joined together for a historic photo-op. The shoot included nearly 200 of the most influential African American religious leaders in the area. Texas Public Radio’s Ryan Loyd gives us this snapshot of what the pastors hope will be gained from the event.


Red Tide Threatens Sea Life in Port Aransas

October 12, 2011 · A toxic bloom of Red Tide is showing up in waters just off Port Aransas. It's resulting in fish die offs and respiratory problems for some people on the beach. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Red Cross Helps Tornado Victims

October 10, 2011 · After a tornado touched down in San Antonio early Sunday morning, the American Red Cross is stepping in to help the now homeless families get back on their feet. Texas Public Radio's Joey Palacios reports.


SAISD Employees Resign Over Conflict of Interest Claims

October 10, 2011 · Two senior employees at SAISD resigned over what district leaders say is a conflict of interest. As Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports, district officials believed the staff members abused their positions by allowing service contracts to go to family members.


New Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center Serves South Texas

October 10, 2011 · Veterans and active duty service members who receive multiple traumatic injuries have a new place to be treated in San Antonio. TPR’s Joey Palacios reports.


Scobee Planetarium Celebrates 50 Years

October 10, 2011 · Over the weekend, Scobee Planetarium reached its golden anniversary. TPR’s Joey Palacios attended the celebration and has more information on the potential Challenger Learning Center.


Sunken Gardens Theater Could Get a Makeover

October 10, 2011 · The Sunken Gardens Theater could receive a restoration if a proposal by the same group managing the Majestic and Empire Theatres is included in the city’s 2012 bond program. TPR’s Joey Palacios reports.


San Antonio Symphony in Debt

October 10, 2011 · The San Antonio Symphony concluded its first season in eight years with a deficit. TPR’s Joey Palacios has more information.

 


Shepherd Road Flood Control Project Complete

October 7, 2011 · A flood control project is now complete in Southwest Bexar County on Shepherd Road at Elm Creek and Black Hill Branch. It’s the first to be finished as part of the county’s 10-year $500 million flood control program.


Chef Guo Xiang Brings Wuxi to the Alamo City

October 7, 2011 · As part of the City of San Antonio’s China Advisory Subcommittee’s Cultural Exchange Component, guest Chef Guo Xiang is adding some flavor to a weekend full of events. Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd reports.


Tea Party Campaigns Against Texas Student Loan Proposition

October 7, 2011 · What was expected to be a routine vote on a state proposition to extend a Texas Low-Interest Student Loan program may run into a political buzz-saw called the Texas Tea Party. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Occupy San Antonio Protests Downtown

October 6, 2011 · Members of the Occupy San Antonio are protesting in downtown San Antonio right now in support of the other Occupy Movements around the country.


Can ‘Weather Modification’ Help In A Drought?

October 6, 2011 · Texas could remain in the grip of the current drought until 2020. The drought could surpass the so-called “drought of record” that happened back in the 1940s and 50s. That drought spawned some scientific approaches to what’s become known as “rainfall enhancement,” or “weather modification.” Some have wondered why we can’t just use the power of science to make it rain in this drought. KUT’s Matt Largey has the story.


No Details Yet From Perry on Jobs

October 6, 2011 · The next major milepost for the Republican presidential campaign is next week in New Hampshire. On Tuesday, the GOP candidates will meet at Dartmouth College for a debate focused specifically on the U.S. economy. Texas Governor Rick Perry touts his economic record in Texas, but as KUT's Ben Philpott reports, Perry’s focus on job creation has yet to yield any specifics in his campaign.


Hay Shortage Squeezes Horse Owners

October 5, 2011 · The drought is causing severe shortages of hay across Texas. As KUT's Nathan Bernier reports, that's making life hard for people who own horses.



“Occupy San Antonio” Movement Forming

October 5, 2011 · The “Occupy Wall Street” Movement is growing around the country and moving into South Texas. A group of San Antonians desiring to participate are planning a demonstration of their own this Thursday. TPR’s Joey Palacios attended one of their most recent meetings.


National Night Out in the Alamo City

October 5, 2011 · San Antonians opened their doors and stepped out for some fresh air at the city's National Night Out. The city that's taken top honors for posting big turn-outs again met friends and strangers to crack down on crime. As Texas Public Radio's Ryan Loyd found out, one woman credits knowing her neighbors for scaring away an intruder.


Mexican-Born Naturalized Citizen Confirmed Federal Judge

October 5, 2011 · A native of Mexico and long-time naturalized U.S. citizen was confirmed as a new federal judge in South Texas. Hernán Rozemberg has more.



In Mesquite Obama Promotes Jobs Plan, Challenges Republicans

October 5, 2011 · A laid-off Dallas teacher shared the stage with President Barack Obama yesterday as he lobbied for his jobs bill. KERA’s Shelley Kofler reports the President told Republicans to get their act together during his stop at Eastfield College in Mesquite.


HUD Questions State Management of Disaster Recovery Funds

October 5, 2011 · Officials with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development are asking questions about the management of more than $1 billion in disaster recovery funds. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the engineering firm given the job of managing those funds has close ties to Governor Rick Perry.


The Monarch Butterflies Are Back But Struggling

October 5, 2011 · If you noticed a shock of bright orange blowing through the air these days, it could be a falling leaf or it could be a monarch butterfly, making its annual migration down to Mexico. Mose Buchele reports, a lot has changed for the monarchs since the last time they flew through Texas.


Conservation Society Wants Second Opinion on Wolfson Building

October 5, 2011 · The San Antonio Conservation Society is hoping to save some parts of the Wolfson Building that was gutted in Saturday morning’s fire on Main Plaza. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the group’s president inspected the historic building late Monday and found some signs of hope in the mound of rubble.


15,000 Step Out for City’s First Síclovía

October 3, 2011 · Cars and trucks were turned away on Broadway Avenue just north of downtown yesterday. It was the city’s first Síclovía, and it underscored a community-wide effort to boost healthy living. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Celebrating 125 Years Of State Fair Tradition

October 3, 2011 · The 125th State Fair of Texas opened Friday, and at the concession stands, the deep fryers are already bubbling. While new inventions like fried bubblegum and fried sauerkraut have the most buzz, KERA's Courtney Collins says it's the taste of tradition that keeps fairgoers coming back.


Sonogram Legislation On Hold

September 30, 2011 · The Texas sonogram law, set to take effect this Saturday, remains on hold as it goes through the appeal process. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.

 


New U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Visits Tijuana, San Diego

September 30, 2011 · The new U.S. Ambassador to Mexico visited the San Diego-Tijuana border region last night. The career diplomat most recently comes from another country in conflict: Afghanistan. From our Fronteras Desk, Ruxandra Guidi reports.


Historic Conservation in San Antonio: Villa Finale

September 30, 2011 · What once was a dilapidated rooming house in King William is now the only place in Texas that's part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. There are only 29 such sites across the country. Among them: James Madison's home Montpelier and Frank Lloyd Wright's home in Chicago. Here in San Antonio it's the home of visionary preservationist Walter Mathis. As part of Texas Public Radio's special series on historic conservation, Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports.


"Talk About It" Brings In No-Kill Pioneer

September 28, 2011 · Mayor Julian Castro says San Antonio is well on its way to becoming a No-Kill city. He spoke to members of the “Talk About It” campaign this week, which is now a year old and chalking up some successes.


Texas Tracks Listeria in Cantaloupe

September 28, 2011 · Billionaire oilman T. Boone Pickens told local business leaders Tuesday that gas will reach $5 per gallon before American drivers finally say ‘enough is enough.’ Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports Pickens offered his energy predictions at a Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce economics conference.


Pickens Urges Nation To Get Off The OPEC Treadmill

September 28, 2011 · Billionaire oilman T. Boone Pickens told local business leaders Tuesday that gas will reach $5 per gallon before American drivers finally say ‘enough is enough.’ Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports Pickens offered his energy predictions at a Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce economics conference.


Three Renoirs Join McNay

September 27, 2011 · The McNay Art Museum acquired three Renoir paintings, thanks in part to generous gifts. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the local art community also celebrated the 20th anniversary for the museum’s director with a reception to mark the occasion.


State Report Says Border is a War Zone

September 27, 2011 · Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples is calling for tougher security along the Texas Mexico border. Staples released a report on Monday saying Mexican drug cartels are a serious threat to the public safety of Texans. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Wind Prevents August Blackouts, But Next Summer A Concern

September 26, 2011 · Energy officials are crediting an unexpected blast of wind with preventing power outages last month. Now they’re worried about what will happen next summer as KERA’s Shelley Kofler reports.


Republicans Woo Latino Voters In 2012 Elections

September 26, 2011 · Hispanic voters could play an important role in next year's presidential election, especially in key states like Nevada, Colorado and New Mexico. A newly formed conservative organization called Hispanic Leadership Network convened in Albuquerque this weekend to discuss the Latino vote. From the Changing America Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports one of the issues raised over and over again was immigration.


SA Continues To Pursue No-Kill Stray Animal Policy

September 23, 2011 · The city’s no-kill task force has been pounding the streets over the past year to talk to residents about neutering their pets, adoption, and taking better care of dogs and cats. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports San Antonio’s “Talk About It” campaign is a year old and beginning to record some successes on the way to becoming a no-kill city.


San Juan Suffers Damage By Vandals

September 23, 2011 · National Park officials are asking for help in finding the vandals who carved names and initials in the walls of the nearly 300-year-old Mission San Juan Capistrano. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports the act has permanently damaged one of San Antonio’s national treasures, and the crime is a federal offense.


Mexican Peso Drops To Lowest Level In Two Years Against Dollar

September 23, 2011 · The Mexican peso has dropped to its lowest value in two years. From the Changing America Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports the devaluation has positive and negative consequences for the southwest border.


SA Red Cross Enlists Olympian To Raise Millions

September 23, 2011 · Recent disasters across the country have stretched the fiscal resources of the local Red Cross. On Thursday, major donors asked their friends to step up to the table to increase support for San Antonio needs. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports Olympic gold medalist Josh Davis brought a message of “giving back” to the event.


TPR's Fronteras Project hold Town Hall on the Dream Act

September 22, 2011 · How to deal with illegal immigration is a divisive issue in America. Nearly all sides agree reform is desperately needed and that reform is stuck. To encourage a public dialog on the issue Texas Public Radio held a Fronteras town hall meeting Tuesday night on the DREAM Act.


UTSA President Says March To Tier One Is A Marathon

September 22, 2011 · Texas Secretary of State Esperanza "Hope" Andrade was in San Antonio to introduce UTSA President Ricardo Romo for his annual "State of the University" Address. As TPR’s Eileen Pace reports, Romo says the school’s march to Tier One status is a marathon, not a footrace.


National Science Foundation Awards St. Mary's For STEM Student Support

September 21, 2011 · St. Mary’s University is one of two San Antonio colleges and universities to receive the National Science Foundation’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Scholars Program. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


DADT Repeal Means Business As Usual For Joint Base S.A.

September 21, 2011 · Thousands of military service members in San Antonio saw the repeal of the law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) as business as usual. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the message is clear from within: a service member’s sexual orientation should make no difference in their service.


Threat From Mexican Cartel Cancels High School Football Game In U.S.

September 21, 2011 · Mexican drug cartels have threatened a high school football team. The potential violence has forced the team’s opponent in the United States to cancel an upcoming game. From San Antonio, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


Latinos Would Lose The Most From Cuts To Medicare

September 21, 2011 · Elderly Latinos in Southwestern states would have the most to lose from potential cuts to Medicare and Social Security benefits. From our Fronteras Desk, Ruxandra Guidi has our story.


Parking Spots Turn Parks For A Day On Grayson

September 19, 2011 · Saturday was Park(ing) Day at the Pearl, a day when ordinary curbside parking spaces were transformed into miniature parks by architecture and environmental science students. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it’s an annual effort to get passers-by to stop and smell the roses.


Ciudad Juárez Steps Out To Celebrate Mexican Independence Day

September 16, 2011 · Last year, Ciudad Juárez canceled the public celebration of the country’s 200th birthday party. After four years of brutal drug cartel violence, the city on the U.S.-Mexico border opted out of the nation’s biggest celebration of the century. This year, under a new mayor, the party is on. From the Changing America Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports that while Juárez has one of the worst murder rates in the Americas. Residents are tired of hiding.


GAO: Are Millions Spent On Military At Border Worth It?

September 16, 2011 · The investigative arm of Congress has released a report saying that the United States military’s efforts on the Mexican border haven’t been managed efficiently despite the millions of dollars spent. Fronteras Desk correspondent Michel Marizco reports.


Forbes Ranks SA #1 In Job Growth

September 15, 2011 · San Antonio has been rated the top city in the country for job seekers this fall. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has more.



Joint Base San Antonio Officially On

September 15, 2011 · San Antonio’s military facilities met the September 15 deadline handed them by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission in 2005. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports San Antonio’s air force bases and Fort Sam Houston were officially merged under the umbrella of Joint Base San Antonio at a ceremony Thursday morning.


Critical Wildfire Warning

September 14, 2011 · Bexar County is issuing a warning about wildfires for Thursday. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Homeland Security Program Targets Visitors Who Overstay Their Visa

September 14, 2011 · The Homeland Security Department will roll out a new system to track down people who overstay their temporary legal visas. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg explains it has been a decade in the making.


Cigarettes Can Fast Lead to Wildfires

September 14, 2011 · San Antonio firefighters say motorists aren’t paying attention, and the fire department is warning again of the dangers of tossing smoldering cigarettes from moving vehicles. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the San Antonio Fire Department asked the media out to the firefighting training facility Tuesday for a demonstration of just how rapidly wildfires can get out of hand.


Texas Poverty Grows By Nine Percent In One Year

September 14, 2011 · The US Census Bureau released a new report on poverty yesterday. And as KUT’s Nathan Bernier reports, the situation in Texas is not getting any better.



Perry Takes His Lumps in Tampa

September 14, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry started the week with another poll showing him at the head of the crowded GOP presidential pack. But as Ben Philpott reports for KUT news and the Texas Tribune, staying there may be harder than he expected.



San Antonio Red Cross Positioned Across State Won’t Affect Ability To Respond Locally

September 12, 2011 · Fires in Bastrop and East Texas have stretched local Red Cross resources, but officials say it has not diminished the level of service San Antonians will receive if they need help at the same time. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Comptroller Website Pushes Anti-Fed Regulation Point-of-View

September 12, 2011 · The Texas Comptroller’s Office is launching a new website that tracks the impact of federal regulations on Texas. Critics say the state website shows only a one-sided political point-of-view. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Governor Perry No Show at Recent Wildfire Update

September 12, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry is in Tampa today, prepping for another GOP presidential debate. Perry left the campaign trail briefly last week when the wildfires broke out in Central Texas, but he skipped a scheduled appearance in Bastrop Saturday. KUT’s Ben Philpott reports that for a governor who has the reputation for being strong in an emergency, Perry’s behavior this week struck some dissonant chords.


Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Run Commemorated Firefighters Of 9/11

September 12, 2011 · Bexar County firefighters marked the tenth commemoration of 9/11 with an unusual footrace through the streets of downtown San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Texas Landowners Must Take Steps to Prevent Soil Erosion

September 12, 2011 · As the dry weather continues across Texas, land management experts say it's time to start planning ahead. They says farmers and ranchers need to act now to preserve their lands, so they can best take advantage of rainfall when the drought is over. From KUHF Houston, Gail Delaughter reports.


UTSA Football On Local Longhorn Network Television

September 12, 2011 · The UTSA Roadrunners endured its first loss of the season against the McMurry War Hawks of Abilene in the Alamodome Saturday. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports UTSA games are now televised locally on the Longhorn Network.


Rep. Gonzalez Criticizes Voter ID Laws

September 9, 2011 · A Senate Judiciary Committee is looking closer at state laws that impact voter access, including the Texas Voter ID law. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports San Antonio Congressman Charlie Gonzalez testified before the subcommittee this week.


Post 9/11 Border Build-Up

September 9, 2011 · The 9/11 terrorists entered the country legally, but the attacks forever changed public attitudes toward our nation's borders and, in my cases, toward immigrants. Border security became a rallying cry. Now, a decade after the twin towers fell, U.S. borders are much more pretected, but experts believe they can never be absolutely secured. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


Perry and Romney Rise to the Top of GOP Field

September 8, 2011 · As expected, Governor Rick Perry and his record in Texas were the focus of last night's GOP presidential debate in California. But, in what may become the running theme of the republican battle, East very quickly faced off against West. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports.


Tough Action For Burn Ban Violators

September 7, 2011 · The Bexar County Fire Marshal is issuing a warning now to anyone caught in violation of the burn ban. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Perry Takes National Stage Tonight at Debate

September 7, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry will introduce himself to GOP voters across the country tonight in his 1st presidential debate. It will also the first chance for his opponents to go on the attack, and try to slow down the momentum the Texas governor has gained since he entered the race in August. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports from California.


Metro Health Health Urges Infant Mortality Awareness and Support

September 7, 2011 · The World Health Organization reported this week that infant mortality rates in the U.S. are on the rise. The Metropolitan Health Department is taking action to educate more people in the community about the local problem. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports Mayor Castro has proclaimed September "Infant Mortality Awareness Month."


Farmers Market Caters To Low-income Residents

September 7, 2011 · A new farmers market opened on Friday. This one is designed to bring nutritious, fresh foods to lower income residents who may not have access to outlying grocery stores. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the new location on Cesar Chavez targets residents in public housing as well as Southtown residents and visitors to First Fridays.


Feds Take Over Bastrop Blaze

September 7, 2011 · Beginning Tuesday morning, an elite federal fire team took command of the Bastrop wildfire, the worst blaze in Texas history. A Federal grant will now pay for most of it, as requested by the Texas Forest Service. Texas fires have killed at least four, consumed hundreds of homes, thousands of acres and blackened most of Bastrop State Park. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.


Joint Base SA Security Increased In Advance of 9/11

September 6, 2011 · Security has been stepped up at military installations across the country in advance of the 10th anniversary of 9/11 including those in San Antonio.  Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Northwest Vista Receives Grant for Math Programs

September 5, 2011 · Northwest Vista College has gained the attention of the National Science Foundation, which has rewarded the two-year college for its forward-thinking math programs.  Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Diez Y Seis Celebrates Parade’s 30th Anniversary

August 31, 2011 · San Antonio’s Diez y Seis celebration promises to be bigger and better this year and to involve all parts of the community. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports that officials announced some new events for this year’s festivities.


Hundreds Gather To Commemorate Brooks Air Force Base

August 31, 2011 · Hundreds of national military dignitaries, San Antonio and Bexar County officials, and members of the area business community gathered Tuesday evening to celebrate the rich history of Brooks Air Force Base. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the base officially closes in September but will live on as Brooks City-Base.


TX Sonogram Bill Tossed By Federal Judge

August 31, 2011 · A federal judge is throwing out the Sonogram Abortion Law. It is was set to go into effect in Texas on Thursday. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Consert Energy Management Company Opens In S.A.

August 31, 2011 · The first of those five new, energy-related companies moving to San Antonio has arrived. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


New Law Takes Effect for Alamo

August 31, 2011 · On September 1, a battery of new state laws go into effect from noodling catfish to revealing what’s in fracking fluid. Another law officially begins a transition at the Alamo. TPR’s David Martin Davies reports.


Perry Visits VFW Convention

August 29, 2011 · Even though Governor Rick Perry is preparing for his first two GOP presidential debates in the next two weeks, he set his stump speech aside when speaking at the Veterans of Foreign Wars national convention in San Antonio. The VFW event has been a mainstay on the presidential campaign trail over the years. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports.


San Antonio Red Cross Volunteers Assist Victims Of Irene

August 29, 2011 · Emergency Response Vehicles from the San Antonio Chapter of the Red Cross are part of a contingent of hundreds arriving on the East Coast this week to assist victims of Hurricane Irene. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports.


Library May Honor A Hero Of The Old Spanish Missions

August 29, 2011 · Monsignor Balthasar Janacek, a name familiar to many Catholic parishioners, was instrumental in preserving San Antonio’s missions. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports that now, the San Antonio Library board is considering a proposal to name a portion of the new Missions Branch Library for Janacek.


Dozens Dead In Mexico 'Terror' Attack

August 26, 2011 · Authorities in Mexico say at least 53 are dead in Monterrey after the fire-bombing of a casino in the city. As Fronteras correspondent Michel Marizco reports, this is the latest episode in an increasingly violent string of events south of the border.


Texas To Deport Foreign Convicts

August 25, 2011 · A new law that goes into effect in Texas next week is expected to save the state millions by deporting foreign convicts instead of keeping them in prison here. Our Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg reports.


Rate Of Young Latinos In College Increases

August 25, 2011 · Over the past year, Latino enrollment has surged in colleges and universities. A Pew Hispanic Center report shows young Latinos in college outnumber all other minority groups. From Phoenix, Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez reports.


CaféCollege Celebrates One Year Anniversary

August 25, 2011 · Phase Two of cafécollege is complete now, which adds 9,000 square feet to the college assistance facility. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the mayor issued a challenge to local high school students who use cafécollege.


CPS Asks For Help In Face Of Power Emergency

August 24, 2011 · There was a lot of nail-biting at CPS Wednesday afternoon. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports officials at the utility are hoping they will not have to initiate those rolling brown-outs across San Antonio.


Border Town Fire Department Skips Night Calls

August 24, 2011 · As the bloodshed continues on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande, a South Texas fire department chief says he will no longer respond to night calls at the border. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg reports.


Síclovía Kicks Off

August 24, 2011 · City officials are hoping the weather will be much cooler when San Antonio’s first Síclovía opens in less than two months. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports community leaders gathered last night to kick off a San Antonio party of a different kind.


STEM Labs Make Learning Dynamic At Davis Middle School

August 24, 2011 · Students at Davis Middle School returned this year to a surprise in one of the classrooms. The “Smart Lab” is a hands-on, computerized, high-tech environment where kids can build motors, design houses, create clean energy and perform science experiments. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the lab is designed to get kids interested, and keep them interested, in more education.


Texas A&M-San Antonio Starts Semester With New Campus

August 24, 2011 · San Antonio’s newest university is set to open its doors today for the first time on its new campus. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.

 


Rick Perry Hits Fundraising Trail

August 24, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry is in Austin this week to rest and raise money for the next leg of his presidential campaign. The money will be especially important for Perry as success in fundraising could cement him as the candidate to beat in the 2012 GOP primaries. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports.


Texans Asked to Approve $6 Billion for Water Projects

August 24, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry has set Tuesday, November 8, 2011, as the date that Texans will vote on 10 constitutional propositions. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Perry and the Evangelical Vote

August 22, 2011 · Conservative, Christian voters will be important to Governor Rick Perry if he wants to win the Republican presidential nomination. Yet Perry's campaign has been slow to answer questions about his specific religious beliefs. KERA's Shelley Kofler takes a look at some of the questions so-called Evangelical voters will be asking.


Gas Prices Continue To Drop

August 22, 2011 · Gas prices dropped nearly a nickel per gallon since last week. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the downward trend is expected to continue.


A&M’s Conference Jumping Could Cost Texas Big Bucks

August 22, 2011 · If Texas A&M takes its maroon football away from the Big 12 Conference and joins the Southeastern Conference, it will do more than scramble some football schedules. It could cost Texas big bucks. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


In Drought, Ranchers Sending More Cattle To Auction

August 22, 2011 · One of the worst droughts in Texas history has led to more than $5 billion in agriculture losses since November. That’s according to a report from the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. As KUT’s Matt Largey reports, the drought is leaving cattle ranchers with some tough decisions to make.


Paul and Perry Battle in Presidential Race

August 22, 2011 · Texas has two candidates running for the GOP presidential nomination. It’s the second run in a row for Congressman Ron Paul, and he was less than 200 votes away from wining the Iowa straw poll. Governor Rick Perry is a late entry but quickly rose to the top of several polls tracking the GOP race. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott compares and contrasts the two candidates.


Delayed Deportations

August 19, 2011 · The Obama administration has announced it will delay deporting illegal immigrants who haven’t committed a crime beyond crossing the border. Instead, federal officials will focus on convicted criminals and those deemed to be public safety threats. Fronteras Desk correspondent Michel Marizco reports.


SA Schools Start With STAAR

August 19, 2011 · San Antonio children may have new-school-year jitters, but for the city’s public schoolteachers, new faces are far from the only changes this year. A new standardized testing system is replacing the TAKS, the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills. The new exam is called the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness or STAAR. As Texas Public Radio’s Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports, the STAAR is billed as tougher than the old TAKS.


Hernandez Family Lawsuit Against U.S. Border Patrol Dismissed

August 19, 2011 · A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed against the United States by the family of a Mexican teenager. The boy was shot and killed by a border patrol agent last year. From the Changing America Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports.


Will Today's Job Numbers Help or Hurt Perry?

August 19, 2011 · The latest jobs numbers for Texas were released this morning. The state's unemployment rate has hovered around 8 percent for the last two years. That's about one percent lower than the national average. It's a fact Governor Rick Perry has used on the campaign trail to promote his record of job growth in Texas. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on the political battle over whether the state's job growth has been substantive or just flashy.


Local Law Enforcement Agencies Train Counterparts In Mexico

August 19, 2011 · Federal law enforcement agents have helped train their Mexican counterparts for decades. But now for the first time local police agencies will be part of a formal, expanded training program. Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg explains.


Mission San Jose Re-Opens Friday

August 18, 2011 · After a nine month closure, Mission San Jose re-opens Friday to a community ready to worship in the grand old church. As Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports, the structure has been restored to a nearly original condition, with a new adornment to take it through many future centuries.


Back-To-School Sleeping Tips

August 18, 2011 · With the first day of school right around the corner, parents are trying to get their kids back on a school-year sleeping schedule. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it’s not too late to get some use out of the tips from a local sleep expert.


San Antonio Kicks Off Cultural Exchange: The Year of Taiwan

August 17, 2011 · Fall in San Antonio usually brings cooler weather, and this fall will bring a bounty of Taiwanese art and culture to the city. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the latest in a growing history of cultural exchange between the City of San Antonio and far-away countries.


Federal Court Rules In Favor Of Democrats' Motion In Redistricting Fight

August 17, 2011 · Opponents of the Republican-drawn redistricting map of Texas are calling a recent federal court ruling a victory. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Protests Against Plan To Repeal Driver's Licenses For Illegal Immigrants

August 17, 2011 · Hundreds of people marched Tuesday in Las Cruces to protest the New Mexico governor's efforts to repeal driver's licenses for illegal immigrants. From the Changing America Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports state lawmakers will likely debate the issue in a special session next month.


Private Security Company Defends The Border

August 17, 2011 · Property owners along the Texas-Mexico border are considering hiring a highly-armed private security company to defend themselves from spillover violence. Hernán Rozemberg of our Fronteras Desk has more.


Former Comptroller to Become A&M Chancellor

August 16, 2011 · The Texas A&M University System is three weeks away from having a new leader. KUT's Nathan Bernier explains.

 


New Year, Fresh Start With STAAR

August 16, 2011 · Texas launches its new end-of-year exams when school starts next week. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Requirements or STAAR tests. They're said to be the state's toughest test yet.


San Antonio Airport Offers Non-Stop To Monterrey

August 15, 2011 · San Antonio travelers soon will be able to take non-stop flights to and from Monterrey, Mexico. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.

 


Poteet Water Emergency

August 15, 2011 · The town of Poteet is in a water emergency this afternoon. The water system has run dry, and an emergency water pick-up station is set up at the Poteet City Hall. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


New Aquifer Fees To Be Based On Water Usage

August 15, 2011 · Local water users are worried about the the aquifer usage fees predicted to be added to next year’s water bills. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports most homeowners will see only small increases.


City Hosts District Hearings On Proposed Budget

August 15, 2011 · San Antonio residents are getting the opportunity to comment on the 2012 proposed city budget. TPR’s Steve Short reports the first district hearing is taking place tonight.


Texas Census Shows High Influx Of Central American Immigrants

August 12, 2011 · Newly-released stats from the 2010 Census in Texas show a skyrocketing influx of Central American immigrants over the last decade. The typical household is not so typical anymore. Fronteras Desk reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains.


Perry: A Presidential Profile

August 12, 2011 · Now that the Perry campaign has confirmed Governor Rick Perry will officially join the presidential battle this weekend, the inevitable "who is he" and "can he win" stories will begin to flood the airwaves. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott brings us this look at the political past and future of Governor Perry.


San Antonio To Commemorate 10th Anniversary of 9/11

August 12, 2011 · This September 11th will mark the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. TPR’s Steve Short reports San Antonio, like most of the country, will commemorate the event.


State Sales Tax Revenues Rise Again

August 11, 2011 · Sales taxes returned to taxing entities around the state are up again for the month of July. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it’s the 16th straight month of average increases for the state of Texas.


St. Philip’s Fosters Clean Energy Career Paths

August 11, 2011 · A new program at St. Philip's College gives students cutting-edge career opportunities in alternative energy. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports.

 


Libertarian Party Blasts Perry’s Record On Free Markets

August 10, 2011 · Political watchers are speculating that Governor Rick Perry will announce on Saturday his plans on running for the Republican nomination for president. Wednesday, the Libertarian Party targeted Perry with an online attack. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


VIA Receives First Deposit For Multi-Modal Transportation

August 10, 2011 · VIA’s first rail system got the official go-ahead Tuesday from Bexar County Commissioners. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.

 


Japanese Learn From Texas Grief Camp

August 10, 2011 · For more than 20 years, a Camp Fire USA program near Granbury has helped grieving Texas children recover from their loss. Now, a group of visiting Japanese hope the program can help heal their children who were traumatized by the earthquake and tsunami last March. reports.


Texas Ag Commissioner "Pray for Rain"

August 10, 2011 · Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples says farmers and ranchers in the state have been devastated by one of the worst droughts ever, and it's not over. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.


TEA Orders School District To Close

August 9, 2011 · Premont ISD is in Jim Wells County in the upper Rio Grande Valley. By next July it will be no more The TEA has ordered the district to close.


State Conflicts With Federal Government

August 9, 2011 · State lawmakers and bureaucrats from across the country have come to San Antonio for an annual summit. The 4 day event allows attendees to share ideas and information about what's working in state government – and what's not. For KUT News and the "Texas Tribune, " Ben Philpott reports on one conflict that's become a theme at the event.


UTSA Screens Sex Trafficking Documentary

August 9, 2011 · Sex trafficking of girls and boys – it happens here in San Antonio, and it isn't hard to track down. That's what students at UTSA's Social Work program discovered and they made a documentary about the issue. The school is holding a free screening tonight. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


VIA Proposes Fare Hike

August 8, 2011 · The cost to ride VIA could be going up. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies has more.



Perry To Announce White House Plans Saturday

August 8, 2011 · Will Rick Perry run for president? The speculation about the Texas governor's political ambitions will end on Saturday. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies has the story.



CPS Energy Contracts Additional Wind Energy Source

August 8, 2011 · CPS Energy is marching forward in its Vision 2020 plan for a 20-percent renewable energy supply. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.



North Texas Town Runs Out Of Water

August 8, 2011 · Extreme drought has led to several pipe bursts that caused a North Texas town to run out of water. KERA's BJ Austin reports.


What's Next For Perry After The Response?

August 8, 2011 · Some political watchers expect Governor Rick Perry to announce his presidential intentions as early as this week. For KUT News and the "Texas Tribune," Ben Philpott reports that now that Mr. Perry's day-long prayer gathering in Houston is behind him, there's time to concentrate on national ambitions.


Border Patrol Combats Splashdown Tactics In Drug War

August 8, 2011 · Law enforcement agencies say the intensified cross-border crackdown on drug cartels is forcing them to fight for every drug load. Hernán Rozemberg from our Fronteras Desk explains.


Historic Preservation in San Antonio: Lerma's Nite Club

August 5, 2011 · For decades, Lerma's Nite Club provided a stage for up-and-coming conjunto musicians. The dancehall was an integral part of the social fabric on San Antonio's West Side, especially for the older Latino couples who came to do the polka and cumbia every weekend. A year ago, city inspectors with concerns about the safety of the building shut Lerma's down, leaving its future in limbo. Michelle Koidin Jaffee has her lates report in our historic preservation series.


Texas Immigrant Licenses

August 3, 2011 · A Texas judge has reversed a recently enacted law giving the state power to deny or limit driver’s licenses to legal immigrants. From our Fronteras Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


High School Football Players Fight The Heat

August 2, 2011 · High school football players across Texas are in their first week of two-a-day practices. And it's the hottest week so far this summer, with an "excessive heat warning." KERA's BJ Austin reports.


When's Perry Running

August 1, 2011 · Speculation has run wild about whether Governor Rick Perry will announce that he's running for President. Right now it appears more like when not if. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on what's left to do before the big announcement.


Texas A Growing Center For Hispanic Tea Party Members

August 1, 2011 · Hispanic conservatives in Texas are working to increase their ranks. One avenue they’ve found is the growing Tea Party movement. From our Fronteras Desk, Hernán Rozemberg profiles the Hispanic Tea Party.


EPA to Crack Down on Gas Drillers

July 29, 2011 · The federal government says the natural gas industry will have to do more to prevent air pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency announced a new set of proposed rules to clamp down on the release of harmful gases, particularly around drill sites that use hydraulic fracturing.


Soldier Suspect Arrested Near Fort Hood

July 29, 2011 · Police in Killeen say they expect federal charges to be filed against a soldier they say was planning to attack military personnel at Fort Hood. Private First Class Nasser Abdo was arrested Wednesday following a tip from a clerk at a Killeen gun store. KUT’s Matt Largey reports.


No Hope For Borders in S.A.

July 28, 2011 · Books-A-Million’s interest in buying some of the Borders bookstores has waned. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Prayer Event Poses Risk For Perry, Rising In The Polls

July 28, 2011 · As Governor Rick Perry moves closer to deciding on a presidential campaign, his popularity has shot up in a national political poll. When the Gallop organization asked likely Republican voters last week who they supported for President only Mitt Romney had more support for the GOP presidential nomination. Some 17% backed Romney, while 15% chose Perry. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports that Perry's star is rising as he plans for a prayer event that carries risk.


S.A. Mid-Year Economic Forecast Depends On Washington’s Next Steps

July 27, 2011 · Economists are calling Texas one of the most positive business environments in the country, and San Antonio stands near the top of the list among Texas metro cities. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the mid-year economic outlook presented by the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.


Drought Causes Changes In Bats’ Eating Habits

July 27, 2011 · The Texas drought has caused some of the Central Texas bat population to behave differently, putting them in danger from predators. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.
 


South Texas Papayas Threatened With Salmonella

July 27, 2011 · A salmonella scare has forced the recall of papayas in South Texas. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has details.


Rural Regions Need New Medical Technologies

July 27, 2011 · A new study out today from one of the nation's large health care companies says already-limited health care in rural regions will get worse without technological improvements. KERA's Bill Zeeble explains.


Borders Bookstores May Have Buyer

July 25, 2011 · Going-out-of-business sales got underway Friday at some of Borders’ 399 remaining bookstores after a federal bankruptcy judge approved the company's plan to liquidate. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


SAWS Gets Proposals for New Water Sources

July 25, 2011 · San Antonio Water System is awash with ideas on how to bring new sources of water to the city. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


Local State Lawmakers Scored for Eco-Votes

July 25, 2011 · The recently wrapped legislative session is being examined to determine which lawmakers voted consistently to protect the state’s environment. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.
 


Kelly Field: A Family Changed, Part 5

July 22, 2011 · When a group of dedicated individuals created a turn-around plan for Kelly Air Force Base in the years following its closure, they had two priorities: to minimize the impact on Kelly employees and establish the best use of facilities. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen takes a look at the future for the unique logistics and industrial complex that already employs almost 15,000 workers and brings an estimated $4 billion dollars to the local economy each year.


SBOE Science Vote Over

July 22, 2011 · The State Board of Education has adopted science instructional materials that will be in use for the next decade. KUT’s Nathan Bernier reports.



A Monument To The Tejanos

July 22, 2011 · Texas history began at The Alamo, right? Not according to a group of Mexican-Americans in South Texas who say history books have it all wrong. As our Fronteras reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains, the group has been on a decade-long quest to honor the original pioneers, the Tejanos.


Kelly Field: A Family Changed, Part 4

July 21, 2011 · It has been ten years since the draw down of Kelly Air Force Base, and much progress has been made on re-using the property. In Part 4 of our series, “Kelly Field: A Family Changed,” Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace examines how the local community overcame the challenges of revitalizing a 1,900 acre tract of government property.


SBOE Considers Science Classroom Materials

July 21, 2011 · The state Board of Education has begun a two-day process to adopt new science materials for Texas public schools. As KUT's Nathan Bernier reports, the contentious issue of evolution is set to figure prominently in the debate.


Senate Candidate Dewhurst Weighs In On Debt

July 21, 2011 · Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst says he's taken the first step in his campaign for the U.S. Senate. He's signed a Tea Party backed pledge for limiting the national debt. KERA's Shelley Kofler has more on the effect of Dewhurst entering the race.


American Airlines To Buy 460 Jets

July 21, 2011 · On the same day American Airlines announced a record-setting jet purchase, it also announced a quarter billion dollar loss over the last three months. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports how the two are tied together.


Kelly Field: A Family Changed, Part 3

July 20, 2011 · Some of those involved in the closure of Kelly Air Force Base had a different agenda than that of the Air Force. In Part 3 of our series, “Kelly Field : A Family Changed,” Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace talks with those on the inside track of the 1995 BRAC about how San Antonians responded.


Texas Redistrict Plans Submitted To Federal Court For Pre-Clearance

July 20, 2011 · Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott asked a federal court Tuesday for preclearance for the redistricting plans passed by the state legislature last month. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has the story.


Dangerous Radioactive Camera Equipment Stolen Tuesday

July 20, 2011 · The Texas Highway Patrol has issued an alert for a radioactive device that was stolen in Austin.  TPR’s Eileen Pace has more on the story.



City Seeks Citizens Interested In Being Code Rangers

July 20, 2011 · The City of San Antonio is seeking citizens interested in becoming involved in code enforcement activities.  TPR’s Steve Short has the details.
 


Kelly Field: A Family Changed, Part 2

July 19, 2011 · Civilian workers at Kelly Air Force Base numbered in the tens of thousands over the years, and their service was critical to war fighters in every conflict since World War I. At its peak, Kelly employed 28,000 workers and still numbered in the thousands when the flag came down on July 13, 2001. In Part 2 of our series, “Kelly Field: A Family Changed,” Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace talks with former Kelly workers who adapted to new job situations when the BRAC closure hit the base.


Gov. Perry Continues Non-Campaign in Texas

July 19, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry made three separate stops around Austin Monday. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on how these and other stops for Perry add up to a the precursor of a Presidential campaign.


UT And MIT To Study Risky Energy Exploration

July 19, 2011 · Scientists from the University of Texas and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are teaming up to tell energy companies how to be more responsible when they’re drilling for oil and gas. As KUT’s Nathan Bernier reports, they want the energy companies to pay for it.


Kelly Field: A Family Changed, Part 1

July 18, 2011 · Ten years after the close of Kelly Air Force Base, Port San Antonio officials marked the occasion last week with the unveiling of an aluminum mural commissioned to illustrate Kelly’s long and adaptive history. In her series, “Kelly Field: A Family Changed,” Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace takes a look back this week at the Kelly that was, the BRAC closure, and the turn-around process that created and shaped Port San Antonio.


Free Museum Admissions For Military

July 18, 2011 · Active duty military personnel and their families can visit museums at no charge now until Labor Day. Texas Public Radio’s Ernie Villarreal reports on an initiative called the Blue Star Museums.


Consulate Carbomb Warning

July 18, 2011 · The U.S. State Department has issued a warning that Mexican drug cartels may target a consulate office or a port of entry in the coming days. Warnings of this magnitude are only rarely disseminated to U.S. Citizens. From the Fronteras Desk, Michel Marizco reports.


Perry Touts Environmentally Friendly Energy Production

July 18, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry called Texas an environmentally friendly oil and gas production leader Friday afternoon in Denton. At truck-maker Peterbilt, he ceremonially signed three energy-related bills into law. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports one is the first in the nation to disclose hydraulic fracturing chemicals.


PUC Asks Consumers To Conserve Electricity

July 15, 2011 · The Public Utility Commission has issued a “Yellow Conservation Alert" for the state in response to extremely high heat index predictions. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.
 


Farmers, Fields Wither in Drought

July 15, 2011 · Texas is suffering through its third worst drought on record with some saying it could be the most damaging. KUT’s Mose Buchele reports on the immediate and future impact of a long, hot summer.


Port San Antonio Celebrates 10th Anniversary

July 14, 2011 · Ten years after the final closure of Kelly Air Force Base, Port San Antonio officials and 200 invited guests marked the occasion last night. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.
 


SAPL Plans To Strengthen City's Education Level

July 14, 2011 · The San Antonio Library is asking for public input on the strategic plan that will take it into the next decade. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the drafted plan targets the mayor’s education goals and is based on some hard evidence.


Border Fence Takes Its Toll On Wildlife

July 14, 2011 · A new environmental study concludes that fencing along the U.S.-Mexico border is taking its toll on the region’s wildlife. Hernán Rozemberg of our Fronteras: Changing America Desk reports.


Bexar County Introduces Rx Card For Residents

July 13, 2011 · Bexar County has introduced a prescription card to help residents save money on drug costs. TPR’s Steve Short has the details.


GOP Outside Texas Getting To Know Rick Perry

July 12, 2011 · Governor Perry has been calling influential Republicans in Iowa and New Hampshire, trying to gauge his popularity in the first two states holding contests for the GOP Presidential nomination. But, what do Republicans outside of Texas know about Rick Perry? Often, not a lot, as KERA’s Matt Laslo reports from Washington.


MPO Hosts Bike Night This Wednesday

July 12, 2011 · The Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Bike Night is taking place this Wednesday. TPR’s Steve Short reports it’s a chance for San Antonio’s cycling community to celebrate the latest cycling happenings.


Emergency Assistance Available To Homeowners Facing Foreclosure

July 11, 2011 · Recognizing the difficulties of homeowners facing foreclosure, the City of San Antonio wants residents to be aware of a program that can help them. TPR’s Steve Short has the details.


Downtown Metrics Are Doable

July 8, 2011 · Downtown San Antonio’s Centro Partnership is gearing up to take the SA2020 planning to the next level. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the group is working toward a plan that will shape the strategy and design specific implementations in just five years.


Unlicensed Assisted Living Homes Shut Down

July 8, 2011 · A trio of elder care facilities operating in two counties has been shut down by a court order today. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Immigration Law Provision Pardons Immigrant Spouses Of U.S. Soldiers

July 8, 2011 · A little known provision of U.S. immigration law has been quietly expanded in the last year to provide legal residency to spouses of active-duty military members. Known as “parole in place,” it gives spouses who have been in the country illegally a temporary pardon while their green-card applications are processed. Yet, as Hernán Rozemberg of our Fronteras Desk reports, the program has its critics.


EPA Issues New Emissions Rule

July 8, 2011 · The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a tough new clean-air rule that limits ozone emissions. Critics say the new rule is too pricey and unrealistic. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more, from both sides.


New Braunfels Marine Buried Today

July 7, 2011 · A 20-year-old from New Braunfels was killed in Afghanistan last Tuesday while fighting in Helmand Province. Today, he was buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
 


Walzem Revival Project Takes Shape

July 7, 2011 · The Walzem Road Area Revitalization Project is going into its final community meeting before the structural work begins. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


White House Applauds Judson ISD

July 7, 2011 · The Judson Independent School District has been recognized by the White House for meeting nutritional and physical benchmarks set by the HealthierUS School Challenge program.
 


USDA Compensates Discrimination Victims

July 5, 2011 · The Obama administration is trying to rectify a long history of minority discrimination by the Department of Agriculture. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the USDA is sending representatives across the country, publicizing its efforts to compensate farmers who were denied USDA loans because of their color or gender.


School Year To Start Without Textbooks

July 5, 2011 · Texas public schools will likely have to start classes in August without new textbooks.


Grasshoppers May Plague Texas Farmers

July 5, 2011 · As if the drought and wildfires haven't been enough for Texas farmers to be dealing with, Agriculture experts are warning of another challenge. Grasshoppers are threatening crops.


Drought Causes Tubing Troubles

July 1, 2011 · The drought is wreaking havoc on a Central Texas summer tradition: tubing. KUT's Nathan Bernier reports on what happens when the beer flows freely and the river does not.

 


President Obama Signs Texas Disaster Declaration

July 1, 2011 · President Barack Obama today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Texas and ordered FEMA to help assist efforts to recover from wildfires. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Gulf Coast Clean Up May Use Texas Wetland Restoration As Model

July 1, 2011 · Scientists have come up with an idea to restore the sensitive Gulf Coast wetlands destroyed by BP's Deepwater Horizon platform disaster and the subsequent oil spill — the largest in U.S. history. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Historic Preservation in San Antonio: San Pedro Springs Park

July 1, 2011 · San Antonio's earliest history can be traced to a set of clear, bubbling springs that emanated from the earth just north of modern-day downtown. The land that would become San Pedro Springs Park, America's second-oldest municipal park after Boston Common, had a powerful grip on Native Americans more than 7,000 years ago. Today, amid a severe drought, the springs are dry, but they continue to signal an important message about the future. As part of Texas Public Radio's special series on historic preservation, Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports.


Native Americans Gather For Ceremony Naming White Buffalo Calf

June 30, 2011 · Native Americans from the country across traveled to a ranch near Greenville Wednesday for the ceremonial naming of a white buffalo calf. KERA's Shelley Kofler has more on the importance of Lightening Medicine Cloud's birth.


Southwest Pilot Apologizes

June 30, 2011 · A Southwest Airlines pilot who insulted gays and older workers has apologized. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has details.


Cornyn Pleased As President Obama Nominates U.S. Attorneys for Texas

June 29, 2011 · President Obama nominated four people this week to serve as U.S. Attorneys in Texas. Republican Senator John Cornyn is pleased with the President’s choices. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.


Deaths Of Three Illegal Immigrants Under Murder Investigation

June 29, 2011 · The Duval County Sheriff is conducting a murder investigation into the deaths of three illegal immigrants in South Texas. From our Fronteras Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


City Joins Retailers To Promote Plastic Bag Recycling

June 29, 2011 · The City of San Antonio is asking residents to jump feet first into the grocery bag recycling campaign and to help decrease the number of plastic bags by 25% in parks, rivers and on city streets. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace says local retailers have made commitments to help San Antonians meet the mayor’s goal by the end of next year.


VA Secretary Eric Shinseki Speaks at Army Medical Conference

June 29, 2011 · The head of the Department of Veterans Affairs was in San Antonio Tuesday to speak at the annual Army Medical Command Conference. TPR’s Terry Gildea has more.



SAISD Seeks Input On Bond Renovations

June 28, 2011 · SAISD is asking parents and other residents of the district to attend some of the renovation meetings this summer to help decide the final plans for the schools targeted in the bond election. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


A Bill For Southbound Border Checkpoint

June 27, 2011 · A border-area lawmaker in Texas wants state troopers to help the federal government stop southbound weapons and funds from boosting Mexican drug cartels. Fronteras Desk reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains.


Wentworth and Van de Putte Spar Over Sanctuary Cities

June 27, 2011 · A bill moving through the Texas Legislature empowers local law enforcement to check the immigration status of people they suspect are in the country illegally. It is unclear if the bill will be passed before the special session ends Wednesday, but two San Antonio lawmakers in the Texas Senate find themselves involved a public war of words over the legislation. TPR’s Terry Gildea has more.


Joaquin Castro Filed To Run For Austin/SA Congress District

June 27, 2011 · San Antonio State Rep. Joaquin Castro filed to run for Congress on Friday. District 35 is one of the four new congressional districts being carved into Texas; it covers parts of San Antonio and the area south of Austin. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Army's Medical Museum Offers Concert

June 24, 2011 · The public is invited to "Groove Therapy," a free concert this Sunday at Fort Sam Houston's Mecial Museum. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace has the story.


Immigration Prison Security Guard Charged With Sexual Abuse

June 23, 2011 · An immigration prison security guard in South Texas was charged with sexual abuse. Hernán Rozemberg reports from the Fronteras Desk.


Perry Adds Measure On Expense Report Confidentiality To School Finance Bill

June 23, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry has introduced into the special session a measure that would maintain secrecy about his travel expenses. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports Perry tacked the measure onto the school finance bill after it failed to muster support during the regular session.


Saving Trees In Drought

June 23, 2011 · Sometimes the largest investment in one’s property is the trees. Horticulture experts say there are things homeowners can do right now to protect those investments during the drought. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it may be necessary to focus available water on trees rather than lawns during Stage 3 water restrictions.


Border Patrol Shoots Man Crossing Border Fence

June 22, 2011 · For the first time in more than a century, management at the iconic Alamo mission is set to change under a new law that Texas Gov. Rick Perry quietly signed last week. Fronteras Desk reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains.


Alamo Dust-Up

June 22, 2011 · For the first time in more than a century, management at the iconic Alamo mission is set to change under a new law that Texas Gov. Rick Perry quietly signed last week. Fronteras Desk reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains.


Texas Dairy Farms Struggle With Drought

June 22, 2011 · East Texas dairy farmers had hoped for a profitable year with higher milk prices. Kate Archer Kent of Red River Radio reports a severe drought and soaring feed prices now have farmers scrambling to feed their cows.


CPS Energy Leads Consortium To Add Jobs, Move To Green Energy

June 21, 2011 · A partnership of five new energy companies have announced they will move to San Antonio or build new facilities here to develop new energy technologies. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the move represents not only the promise of up to 1,000 new jobs, but also a promise to the citizens to clean up the air and bring enhanced education opportunities in the growing industry.


Perry Vetoes Community College Bill

June 21, 2011 · A bill designed to help and encourage community college students to continue school and earn their bachelors' degrees won't make it into law this legislative session. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports Governor Perry vetoed the bill at the last minute.


Red Cross Develops Plan for Cross-Border Disasters

June 21, 2011 · People look to the Red Cross when natural disasters strike the United States. But when Mother Nature hits the U.S.-Mexico border, getting help across quickly to the other side has been delayed by heavy bureaucracy. That will soon change. Hernán Rozemberg reports on an effort to change that.


Llano River In Danger Of Running Dry

June 20, 2011 · Drought conditions are tough throughout the Hill Country, but folks in Llano face a tighter water situation than most of us. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the community’s water supply is barely running at a trickle.


Evangelicals Target Perry Over Immigration

June 20, 2011 · Some Hispanic Evangelical Ministers who have previously supported Rick Perry are organizing against him just as Perry considers a run for the White House. KERA's Shelley Kofler says Perry's sanctuary cities legislation is at issue.


Governor Perry Fails To Walk The Talk

June 16, 2011 · As Texas Governor Rick Perry works to raise his profile among Christian constituents, some are asking whether his tithing record will haunt him. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Texas Legal Case Opens Door For Mexican Asylum Seekers

June 16, 2011 · More than 21,000 Mexicans have sought asylum in the United States since President Felipe Calderón initiated a head-on war against drug cartels in 2006. Asylum seekers now stand a better chance thanks to a little-known legal case out of Texas. Hernán Rozemberg of our Fronteras Desk has the story.


Villarreal Makes 'Texas Monthly' Best Lawmakers List

June 16, 2011 · Who are the best and worst lawmakers in Austin? The answer is up to debate, but "Texas Monthly" released their rankings for the 82nd legislature today. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Cornyn Proposes Federal Sunset Commission Based on Texas Model

June 15, 2011 · Republican Texas Senator John Cornyn is urging the Obama administration to follow the lead of the Lone Star State’s effort to cut what he calls wasteful spending. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.


New Rainy Day Plan Floated for School Funding

June 15, 2011 · A new Rainy Day Fund approach for public education is about to go to a vote in the Texas Senate. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports education groups are asking the public to call their senators to support a new amendment.


Transfer Of Immigrants In Detention On The Rise

June 15, 2011 · On any given day, there are about 37,000 immigrants in detention throughout the U.S. Before they are deported, many are often transferred to remote jails. From our Fronteras Desk, Ruxandra Guidi has our story.


Father’s Day Program Promises Excitement at Pacific War Museum

June 15, 2011 · The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg is hosting its re-enactment of one of the bloodiest battles fought by World War Two Marines. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has the story.


Juarez Fights Drug Cartels With Youth Orchestra

June 14, 2011 · A new youth orchestra in the Mexican border city of Juarez made its debut this week. From the Fronteras Desk, Monica Ortiz Uribe reports the orchestra is part of an effort to steer the next generation away from violence.


Gov. Rick Perry Takes To The National Stage This Week

June 13, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry has signed on to Bexar County’s emergency ban on all fireworks sales. Texas Public Radio’s Brian Kirkpatrick has more.


Perry Signs On To Bexar Fireworks Ban

June 13, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry has signed on to Bexar County’s emergency ban on all fireworks sales. Texas Public Radio’s Brian Kirkpatrick has more.


UTHSCSA Study Finds Undernourishment In Pregnant Females Key To Diseases Of The Next Generation

June 13, 2011 · Pregnant women give their unborn children diabetes and other chronic health conditions by not watching their diet; that’s the finding of a new study. Texas Public Radio’s Nathan Cone reports.


Latino Civil Rights Groups Fight Redistricting Designs

June 13, 2011 · A Latino civil rights group has joined a lawsuit to stop a Republican-drafted congressional redistricting plan. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.


Uresti Opposes Sanctuary Cities Bill In Special Session

June 13, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry added the Sanctuary Cities Bill to the special legislative session. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports that Democratic State Senator Carlos Uresti is among the Bexar County delegation that opposes the bill.


Drought Drying Up West Texas Water Supply

June 10, 2011 · The extreme drought is hitting some parts of Texas extra hard. As water supplies start to dry up, the rush is on to find new sources of drinking water. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Emergency Fireworks Ban in Place in Bexar County

June 10, 2011 · The ongoing drought is so severe that Bexar County is banning all fireworks sales for the coming Fourth of July celebration. Officials say this is only the second time that the county has taken this measure to protect the area from wildfires. TPR’s David Martin Davies reports.


Institute of Texan Cultures Celebrates The Folklife Festival

June 10, 2011 · The Institute of Texan Cultures begins its 40th Folklife Festival this weekend. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports the institute is celebrating the anniversary with an exhibit of the festival’s highlights and history.


Texas Rangers In Border Shootout

June 10, 2011 · Texas Department of Public Safety officers were in a cross-border shootout with suspected drug runners in Mexico Thursday morning. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has more.


TABC Fights Illegal Wine Shipping

June 8, 2011 · The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is appealing to shipping companies to stop the illegal shipment of wine from out-of-state retailers to Texas consumers. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


New Head Start Program Revives Carol Burnett’s Childhood Home

June 8, 2011 · The childhood home of Carol Burnett on the city’s West Side has been rescued from demolition and relocated to provide a space for a new Head Start program. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it’s a house that holds a lot of history.


Bexar County Bans Some Aerial Fireworks

June 8, 2011 · Because of the extremely dry conditions in Bexar County, commissioners have banned some fireworks for the weeks ahead. TPR’s Steve Short has the details.

 


Immigration Bills Fizzle Across Southwest

June 7, 2011 · 2011 was supposed to be the year of immigration crackdown at statehouses across the Southwest. In fact, nationwide, state legislators filed more than 1,500 immigration bills. Hernán Rozemberg of the Fronteras Desk reports that while many followed Arizona's tough enforcement approach, few of these bills actually made it into law.


Natural Gas in Eagle Ford Shale Brings Jobs to South Texas

June 7, 2011 · While most of the nation is dealing with a lack of new jobs, South Texas is seeing a boom. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports on the rush to tap the Eagle Ford Shale for natural gas and oil.


CPS Energy Offers Incentive for Home Energy Audits

June 7, 2011 · CPS Energy has announced another rebate for its customers. This one is from a federal Department of Energy grant and is available to customers who perform a home energy audit and make the recommended changes. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Bataan Death March Prisoner Awarded Posthumous Purple Heart

June 6, 2011 · A World War II victim of the Bataan Death March was posthumously honored with a Purple Heart today, 69 years after succumbing to wounds inflicted while he was held as a prisoner of the Japanese. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


UT Health Science Center Braces For Record Cuts

June 6, 2011 · Officials say the largest budget cuts ever to hit the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio will force the loss of 150 employees. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports.

 


Mediation Ordered For Durango-Chavez Naming Dispute

June 6, 2011 · A state district judge has ordered the City of San Antonio into mediation with the San Antonio Conservation Society over the renaming of Durango Blvd.

 


State Rep. Castro Eyes Run in New Congressional District

June 6, 2011 · Republicans released a map with a new district that includes Bexar County. TPR’s Terry Gildea talks with one San Antonion who may run for the proposed seat.


Angel Fares For Morgan's Wonderland

June 3, 2011 · Morgan’s Wonderland can now host special-needs children from out-of-town, Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the new endowment by a San Antonio-based business.
 


San Antonio Kicks Off "Project Cool" Fan Drive

June 3, 2011 · The hot days of summer have arrived in South Texas. TPR’s Steve Short reports the City of San Antonio is kicking off its fan drive, the Project Cool Program today.
 


Household Hazardous Waste Collection This Saturday

June 3, 2011 · The City of San Antonio’s household hazardous waste collection is set for this weekend. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Sanctuary Pride

June 3, 2011 · This year’s regular legislative session in Texas is over, but the governor has called for another round. He’s expected to resurrect a bill in special session to punish so-called “sanctuary cities.” From the Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports the only city in the state that openly protects illegal immigrants is ready to fight to keep its unique status.


Lawmakers Weigh Effect Of Perry's Presidential Aspirations

June 3, 2011 · KERA's Shelley Kofler is in Austin and looks at whether Perry's presidential aspirations affected legislative decisions during the regular session. She reports Perry began setting the stage for a national campaign at least two years ago.


Library Kicks Off Summer Reading Program

June 3, 2011 · The San Antonio Public Library is kicking off its Summer Reading program today. Texas Public Radio's Steve Short reports.


Bill Clements Memorial Service Today

June 2, 2011 · Texas Governor Bill Clements died Sunday. KERA's Bill Zeeble spoke to grandson George Seay about the governor who helped swing state politics to the GOP.
 


Abbott To Fight Graduation Prayer Ban

June 1, 2011 · The Texas Attorney General has joined forces with a Medina Valley Independent School District officials to appeal a ruling that would ban prayer from a graduation ceremony. Texas Public Radio's Terry Gildea reports.


Bexar County’s Adult Detention Center Expands Its Resources

June 1, 2011 · Bexar County’s Adult Detention Center, the jail, houses fewer inmates today than it did ten years ago, despite the county's increase in population. This good news is the result of a change in approach to the criminal justice system in the county.


San Antonio Gets $21 Million In HUD Grants

June 1, 2011 · The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has announced the final Fiscal Year 2011 block grant allocations to about 1200 state and local governments. TPR’s Steve Short has the details.


Sexting Bill Awaits Governor’s Signature

May 31, 2011 · Texas lawmakers are in favor of looking out for kids who transmit sexually-explicit photos or videos without realizing they are committing a crime. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the new sexting bill waiting for the governor’s signature.


Romo Appointed To President’s Commission On Latino Education

May 31, 2011 · UTSA President, Dr. Ricardo Romo, has just returned from Washington where he was sworn in as a member of the Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


House Approves $690-Billion Defense Spending

May 27, 2011 · The just-approved House version of the Defense Authorization Bill for Fiscal 2012 contains provisions for additional protection for soldiers against IED's. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace spoke with Texas Congressman Charles Gonzalez about House Resolution 1540 passed on Thursday.


HOA Reforms Quietly Passed In Austin

May 27, 2011 · New protections against Home Owner Association abuse and foreclosures are headed to the Governor’s desk. They come just days after some declared them dead. From Austin KERA’s Shelley Kofler takes at what it took to pass the reforms.


Military City U.S.A.

May 27, 2011 · San Antonio is known as “Military City, U.S.A.” City leaders long ago donated land would become Fort Sam Houston with its first structure, the Quadrangle. As part of TPR’s special series on historic preservation, Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports.


Alamo Colleges Recognized As Leader In Boosting Graduation Rates

May 26, 2011 · Alamo Colleges has been recognized as a leader in boosting graduation rates. TPR's Steve Short reports that a grant will help more community colleges better serve students.


Red Cross Sends Local Volunteer To Aid In Joplin

May 26, 2011 · The San Antonio Chapter of the Red Cross has been asked to assist in coordination of disaster relief efforts in tornado-torn Joplin, Missouri. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


CPS Gives Rebates For Electric Cars

May 26, 2011 · Getting to work is a lot easier and a whole lot cheaper for an SAISD librarian, now that she has her new all-electric car. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the car has no tailpipe because it is zero-emissions.


Drilling Disclosure Bill Fights End-Of-Session Deadlines

May 26, 2011 · Senators from North Texas helped defeat efforts to delay the disclosure of chemicals used in natural gas drilling. From Austin, KERA’s Shelley Kofler reports the fracking legislation is now fighting facing end-of-session deadlines.


Sanctuary Cities Bill Stalls in Texas Senate

May 25, 2011 · A bill designed to crack down on illegal immigrant activity in Texas might have met its demise in the Texas Senate. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports.


Texas May Set Precedent With Fracking Disclosure Bill

May 25, 2011 · Texas may soon become the first state in the country to require natural gas drillers to disclose the chemicals they use in a process known as fracking. KERA’s Shelley Kofler reports a “fracking” disclosure bill is expected to be on the floor of the Texas Senate today.


County Flood Control Program Checks In With Residents

May 25, 2011 · County officials met with Precinct 4 residents last night to update the progress on Bexar County’s Flood Control Capital Improvement Program. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports some residents had immediate concerns.


Texas House Approves Collaborative Health Care Bill

May 25, 2011 · The Texas House has approved a bill to establish the Texas Institute of Health Care Quality and Efficiency. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on this new collaborative health care initiative to improve quality and accountability and contain costs.


UTSA Hosts Youth Conference For Higher Education

May 25, 2011 · High school seniors, who will be graduating soon, are invited to a conference this Saturday to help them through the transition to college. TPR’s Steve Short has the details.


Bexar County Commissioners Extend Burn Ban

May 25, 2011 · A burn ban is currently in effect for unincorporated Bexar County, and TPR’s Steve Short reports County Commissioners have voted to extend it for another three months.


Castro Endorses Bernal In Runoff

May 24, 2011 · Mayor Julián Castro is throwing his political muscle behind Diego Bernal in the city council run-off race for District 1. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Conservation Society Prevails In First Battle Over Durango Name Change

May 24, 2011 · A state district judge has issued an order to temporarily stop the City of San Antonio from changing the name of Durango Boulevard to Cesar Chavez Boulevard Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


SAISD's Head Start, Pre-K Programs Filling Up

May 24, 2011 · SAISD is seeing steady enrollment during the second round of applications for its pre-K and Head Start programs. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


The Drug War At Home: The Texas Valley Of Corruption

May 24, 2011 · Sullivan City, one of dozens of little towns that line Expressway 83 in the Rio Grande Valley, the southernmost tip of Texas, is mired in a corruption scandal involving the drug trafficking conviction of the city's police chief. The Fronteras Desk's Hernán Rozemberg examines how the citizens of Sullivan City have reacted.


Conservation Society Files to Stop Durango Name Change

May 23, 2011 · Members of the San Antonio Conservation Society are waiting to hear from a state district judge today on their request to stop the city from renaming Durango Boulevard for labor leader Cesar Chavez.


BRIT Hopes To Solve World Problems Through Plants

May 23, 2011 · The Botanical Research Institute of Texas, BRIT, opened its new environmentally “green” campus in Fort Worth’s Cultural District. The scientists working there say they now have room to expand one of the country’s largest plant collections and help solve global problems, as KERA’s Shelley Kofler reports.


Guns on Campus Bill Dead for This Session

May 20, 2011 · The bill to allow students to carry concealed guns on college and university campuses has apparently been shot down for the current legislative session.


Boys And Girls Club SA Expands Their Reach

May 20, 2011 · Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio received a surprise bonus when a fairy godmother decided to up the ante on her gift. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.



Durango Street Is Renamed To Honor César Chávez

May 20, 2011 · After four hours of debate Thursday, San Antonio City Council voted to rename Durango Street in honor of labor leader César Chávez. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.



Community Brainstorms School Funding Solutions

May 19, 2011 · A group of informed community members gathered yesterday to brainstorm new solutions to the state’s budget crisis that lawmakers may not have considered. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the group, led by the San Antonio Alliance for Teachers, aims to build a grass-roots effort to increase their voices with legislators.


Annual Diabetes EXPO This Saturday

May 19, 2011 · The American Diabetes Association is hosting its annual Diabetes EXPO this Saturday. TPR’s Steve Short reports this free event includes activities for people of all ages.


"Makin' Hay" Livens The Legacy Of Hardberger Park

May 19, 2011 · Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports Hardberger Park, in the heart of San Antonio's north side, features a four-acre public art installation honoring the agricultural legacy of a preminent dairy farm in San Antonio.


TX Bill Speeds The System With More Judges

May 18, 2011 · A Texas Senator is introducing a bill that could place more federal judges in the Lone Star State. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.


TAMU-SA Celebrates Record Graduating Class

May 18, 2011 · Texas A&M at San Antonio is celebrating its continued growth on the city’s south side with its largest graduating class yet. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.



For Loop 1604 Commuters, Relief On The Way

May 18, 2011 · Engineers from the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) met with the public Monday night to address the proposed expansion of Loop 1604 on the eastern perimeter of San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Religious Community Unites Against Controversial Play

May 17, 2011 · San Antonio's interfaith leaders have united to condemn a controversial play being staged at San Pedro Playhouse. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.



University Health System Provides Online Stroke Test

May 17, 2011 · May is National Stroke Awareness Month. The University Health System has a new test on its website that can help you know if you're at risk for a stroke. More from TPR's Steve Short.


Texas College Dems Blast Republican Leaders Over Education Cuts

May 17, 2011 · State budget cuts to Texas colleges and universities could bring a backlash from younger voters against the ruling Republican party, college democrats warned Monday. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


School Districts Budget Uncertainty

May 16, 2011 · Public school budgets are going to be cut by the Texas Legislature. At the moment however, school districts do not know how deep the cuts will run. Will it be $8-billion, or closer to $4-billion? For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on how that uncertainty affects school district budgets at the local level.


Cameras in School Cafeterias Track Nutrition

May 13, 2011 · A local non-profit organization has developed a technology to help curb child obesity. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the Social and Health Research Center is giving school lunches close scrutiny under the watchful eyes of high-tech cameras.


SA Film Duo Takes San Antonio to Cannes, Again

May 12, 2011 · A short film about the devastating effects of drug abuse set in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, “Katrina’s Son” screens at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival this week. TPR's Nathan Cone interviews director Ya’Ke Smith, who is celebrating the event, while deep in pre-production on his first feature, “Wolf.”


Bicycle Master Plan Unveiled

May 12, 2011 ·After more than a year of planning, designing, meetings, surveys, and drawings, the Bike Plan Advisory Committee got a look at the city’s new Bike Master Plan Wednesday evening. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the plan projects 20 years of bicycle-friendly infrastructure on city streets and trails.


Community Unites To Curb Teen Pregnancy

May 11, 2011 · A group of local teenage girls came together last night to bust the myths about teenage motherhood as depicted on MTV's "Teen Mom" and "16 and Pregnant" programs. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the incidence of teenage pregnancy is declining, but more slowly in San Antonio than in other cities.


Texas Agriculture Suffering Longest Drought In Recent History

May 11, 2011 · Texas farmers and ranchers are scrambling to salvage what they can from some of the driest conditions they've seen in many years, but as Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, there's not much they can do.


Texas Sanctuary Bill Tackles Immigration Policy

May 11, 2011 · Texas cities and towns that bar their police officers from helping federal immigration agents could lose state funding. A bill making that happen moved one step closer to becoming law. Our Fronteras correspondent Hernán Rozemberg has more details.


Study Shows Enlarged Prostate Not A Warning Sign of Cancer

May 11, 2011 · A local and national study has found that an enlarged prostate should not be considered a warning sign of cancer. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Sebelius Praises San Antonio's "Por Vida" Obesity Prevention Program

May 9, 2011 · San Antonio still carries the bad reputation it got from a 2003 CDC study that pointed to the Alamo City as the most obese community in the country. A new city-wide attitude is credited with improving the situation. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, The U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services came to San Antonio last week to view first-hand the Communities Putting Prevention to Work program that she calls "the best in the nation."


Green Space And Flood Control For Fredericksburg Rd

May 5, 2011 · Fredericksburg Road is awash in knee-deep water during heavy floods, preventing emergency vehicles and buses from getting through. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports on the flood control community meeting to get public input on the use of a green space that will replace the old Northwest Plaza shopping center with a sustainable flood control system.


How Cuts To Medicaid May Affect Seniors In Long-Term Care

May 5, 2011 · State lawmakers in Austin are divided over how to manage a budget deficit of more than $25 billion. One program targeted for cuts is Medicaid, a state and federal partnership that funds health care services for those in need. TPR’s Terry Gildea takes us inside one of San Antonio’s nursing homes to understand how cuts could affect patients and staff.


Law Would Allow Employees to Keep Guns in Cars

May 4, 2011 · A proposed law would require companies to permit employees to bring their guns to work — but only if employees keep the guns locked in their cars. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


TV Recycling Bill Has Better Chance This Session

May 4, 2011 · Texas lags behind other states in electronics recycling, and Austin Senator Kirk Watson hopes to change that by creating incentives for recycling old television sets. His Senate Bill 329 has received the nod from a Senate committee. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports it’s the second try for a TV recycling law.


The Alamo Battle of 2011

May 4, 2011 · An influential women’s activist group has been the sole caretaker of the Alamo for more than a century. Yet, state leaders are growingly concerned over reports of mismanagement and poor fundraising by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Our Fronteras Desk reporter Hernán Rozemberg explains changes are afoot at the Shrine of Texas Liberty.


Community Meeting Will Detail the Laddie Place Flood Control Project

May 3, 2011 · A long-standing flood problem on Fredericksburg Road is about to be resolved. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports a neighborhood meeting is scheduled for this evening to discuss the Laddie Place/Northwest Center project.


Lufkin Attorney Made Patriotic Promise Over Bin Laden's Capture

May 3, 2011 · One Texas attorney has an addition reason to mark the demise of terrorist Osama bin Ladin. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Lawmakers Recognize bin Laden Death with Prayer, Applause

May 3, 2011 · Texas lawmakers have less than a month to pass a state budget and finalize hundreds of other bills before the legislative session ends May 30th. Nonetheless, the gravity of the death of Osama bin Laden took precedence for many Monday morning. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports.


Fort Hood Focuses on Road Ahead after bin Laden Death

May 2, 2011 · News of the death of Osama bin Laden is bringing reaction from around the world and across Texas today. At Fort Hood, security was tightened. The post played a major role in the wars that followed the September 11th terrorist attacks. News of bin Laden's death was welcome, as KUT's Matt Largey reports.


Local Middle Eastern Expert Reacts to Bin Laden's Death

May 2, 2011 · Many in South Texas are reacting to the news of Osama Bin Laden’s death. TPR’s Terry Gildea spoke with a local expert on Islamic and Middle Eastern politics.



Residents On Watch for Local Fires

May 2, 2011 · We tend to think the threat of wildfires is far away in rural areas or along country roads, but Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the SAFD is asking city residents to be on watch as local fire monitors.


Comptroller Offers Free Credit Monitoring

April 29, 2011 · State Comptroller Susan Combs is trying to protect 3.5 million Texans whose personal information was exposed by her agency. They will be offered a year of free credit monitoring; KERA's Shelley Kofler reports.


State Department Warns of Dangers in Border Beach Town

April 28, 2011 · Last week, the State Department listed Rocky Point as a Mexican town Americans need to be careful in. As Fronteras reporter Michel Marizco reports, that has business owners furious.


Perry Blasting Obama for Ignoring Texas Disaster While Tending to Alabama

April 28, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry is blasting the Obama Administration for being slow to react to the Texas wild fires disaster. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Lizard Protection May Increase Drilling Costs in West Texas

April 27, 2011 · Gas prices are already sky high, and some say if a West Texas native lizard gets federal protection, prices may climb even higher. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.
 


Study Shows Low Hispanic Voter Turnout

April 27, 2011 · A new study from the Pew Hispanic Center shows Latino voter-turnout during mid-term elections continues to lag significantly behind all other groups. Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez, from our Fronteras: Changing America Desk, reports.


UTSA Invites Cyber Security Competitors

April 26, 2011 · UTSA's Institute for Cyber Security is helping the business world and governments find a few good men and women to police their computer security. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the Cyber-Patriot Competition is designed to help fill the gap of qualified IT security experts.


Natural Gas Exploration Brings New Jobs to Cibolo

April 26, 2011 · A Canadian oilfield services company is expanding into Texas and bringing 500 new jobs with it. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports Cibolo just north of San Antonio, as well as other communities in South Texas along the Eagle Ford shale formation, stand to benefit from the state's newest drilling project.


Komen Race For The Cure This Saturday

April 26, 2011 · The Susan G. Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure 5K Run/Walk is taking place this Saturday. TPR's Steve Short reports registration is taking place all the way up to race time.



Texas Budget Battle: Conservative Group Launches Ads

April 26, 2011 · The Texas Senate is expected to vote on its version of the state budget this week. Their plan spends about $12 billion more than the House budget, including increased spending in education and health care. A raucous House/Senate conference committee is expected, as the two sides try to work out the differences. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports as that showdown draws closer, outside groups are turning up the heat to make each side hold its ground.


Hill Country Film Festival Invites Indie Film Fans to See the Stars

April 25, 2011 · Movie lovers are invited to see the stars in Fredericksburg at the second annual Hill Country Film Festival this week. Stars in the literal sense, that is, for you won’t find Sandra Bullock or Tommy Lee Jones, but you will find three days of great independent film under a big Texas sky. Texas Public Radio’s Nathan Cone speaks to Festival Director Chad Matthews.


Mexico May Sue American Gun Dealers

April 25, 2011 · The Mexican government has hired a U.S. law firm to investigate the possibility of suing American gun dealers and manufacturers. The idea is to stop the flow of weapons headed across the border. Fronteras Reporter Michel Marizco has the story.


State Dept. Issues Wide Travel Warning for Mexico

April 25, 2011 · For the fifth straight year, the U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for Americans going to Mexico. As , from Fronteras: the Changing America Desk, reports, this warning is more strongly worded and suggests that in some parts of Mexico, Americans are being targeted.


GAO Says Lack Of License Plate Readers Scuttles Southbound Smuggling Crackdown

April 25, 2011 · Two years after the Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, ordered federal agents to beef up inspections of cars leaving the U.S. for Mexico, drivers can still slip through most southbound border lanes undetected. Amy Isackson, from Fronteras: the Changing America Desk, reports on the current situation.


BBB Warns of Debit Card Fraud

April 25, 2011 · The Better Business Bureau is responding to a rash of debit card overcharges with an education campaign for consumers. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports there are times for the debit card and other times where the credit card is more appropriate.


The Borglum Studio: Mount Rushmore Takes Shape in San Antonio

April 22, 2011 · Mount Rushmore is among America's most revered and spectacular monuments. Allthough San Antonio is more than 1,200 miles from Mount Rushmore, the landmark first took shape here in the Alamo City. As part of Texas Public Radio's special series on historic preservation, Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports.


Political Redistricting Gets Underway

April 21, 2011 · With 2011 census counts unveiled, Texans are bracing for a political ritual seen only every 10 years. Hernán Rozemberg of our Fronteras: Changing America Desk reports on the process of political redistricting underway at the Texas legislature, where no less than four new congressional districts and numerous state boundary line revisions.


Military Breaks Ground on New Surgery Center

April 20, 2011 ·Ground was broken this morning on a new out-patient surgery center that will replace the hospital building at Wilford Hall Medical Center. More from TPR’s Terry Gildea.


Increased DWI Arrests During Fiesta

April 20, 2011 ·There was a significant increase in the number of Driving While Intoxicated arrests made during Fiesta over last year.  TPR’s Steve Short reports on the statistics.

Families Flock to Matamoros Morgue

April 20, 2011 · The quiet Mexican farming town of San Fernando achieved a new, horrible notoriety in Mexico’s drug war. Around 150 corpses have been recovered so far from mass graves there, believed to be the work of warring drug cartels. The bodies were taken to the morgue in the nearby city of Matamoros, and it has become a mecca for hundreds of mourning families from near and far hoping to identify their disappeared relatives.


SA Military Tackles River Clean-up for Earth Day

April 20, 2011 · As Earth Day approaches this Friday, many folks start thinking about recycling and other earth-friendly projects. But, as Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports, San Antonio’s Armed Forces have already been tackling earth-friendly jobs around the city.


BAMC to Participate in TBI Study

April 19, 2011 · Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, has become a common injury among soldiers wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, but it’s also often a result of car accidents and other traumas. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports that officials at Brooke Army Medical Center are participating in a nationwide study that could improve prospects for those living with TBI.


Fiesta Medals Take the Prize

April 19, 2011 · Most of those close to Fiesta say the Monday after is always a let-down, so the Fiesta Commission added one more event Monday night. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the event could become the newest tradition.


State Takes Steps To Help After Data Breach

April 19, 2011 · Letters from the Texas Comptroller went out late last week, notifying people in the Teacher Retirement System, Texas Workforce Commission and Employees Retirement System that their personal information had been exposed for all to see. The internal mistake allowed anyone to access social security numbers, birth dates and other sensitive data for about 3.2 million Texans.


San Fernando Murders

April 18, 2011 · Mexican authorities continue to find bodies in mass graves near the town of San Fernando. The Mexican community lies about 90 miles south of Brownsville Texas. The grim task of identifying the more than 140 bodies is under way. Families of missing persons throughout Mexico are arriving at the makeshift morgue to see if they can get answers.  Fronteras Reporter Al Macias reports.


Gas Prices Higher Again

April 18, 2011 · Gasoline prices continue to climb this week, in Texas and nationwide. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.



Forensic Report on Willingham Case Released

April 14, 2011 · The Texas Forensic Science Commission has released its report on the Cameron Todd Willingham case. Willingham was executed in 2004 for setting a fire that killed his three daughters in Corsicana. As KUT’s Matt Largey from Austin reports, the commission was asked to investigate the now-discredited science used to convict Willingham.


Rock House Fire in West Texas

April 14, 2011 · In West Texas, the Texas Forrest Service and volunteer fire fighters continue to battle the Rock House fire. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on the blaze that started on Saturday near Marfa and has spread to Fort Davis.



Texas and California Working Together

April 14, 2011 · A delegation of California lawmakers have come to Texas as part of a fact finding mission looking into why California has shed jobs over the last two years — while Texas has created them. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on how these two big state rivals are meeting in hopes of making each other stronger.


Castro Talks with other Mayors about Federal Budget Plans

April 14, 2011 · As Congressional Republicans and the Obama Administration roll out their budget plans for the next fiscal year, several mayors participated in a discussion on how their cities could be affected by those proposals. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports on how San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro participated in that discussion.


Magnet High Schools Are Top-Ranking

April 14, 2011 · Quality rankings for San Antonio-area schools were released on Monday. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports just two local schools placed in the top 15 among Texas high schools in the report that analyzes graduation rates, advanced coursework, TAKS scores, and other data about public schools.


Michelle Obama Visits Warrior and Family Support Center

April 14, 2011 · As part of the White House “Joining Forces” Initiative to challenge communities to provide support for returning service men and women and military families, First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden made a trip to San Antonio Wednesday. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the first ladies wanted to see the Warrior and Family Support Center at Fort Sam Houston.


Wild Fire Warnings Spread East

April 14, 2011 · There is a forecast for a high probability of dangerous wildfires expanding beyond West Texas and the Panhandle today. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Mexico Travel Warning Dropped

April 14, 2011 · Last Friday, the United States quietly issued a travel warning for parts of Mexico, saying American citizens and law enforcement were at risk. Now, that warning has been dropped. Michel Marizco reports.



NIOSA Bigger and Better

April 13, 2011 · NIOSA began in the usual way Tuesday evening: King Antonio and El Rey Feo leading the march through La Villita, transformed for the four-night Fiesta bash. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports this year’s Night in Old San Antonio provides the largest space in the event’s history.


Stage One Water Restrictions In Effect

April 13, 2011 · Stage One water restrictions are now in place for San Antonio residents. TPR’s Steve Short reports City Manager Sheryl Sculley made the announcement Tuesday.



Project Helps Parkinson's Patients Regain Their Voices

April 12, 2011 · Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that is often associated with hands that shake uncontrollably; a loss of balance; arms and legs that become rigid and difficult to move. There's also a less recognized symptom — a loss of understandable speech. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports on a North Texas project that is helping Parkinson's patients recover their voices.


Comptroller Acknowledges Huge Security Breach

April 12, 2011 · In the largest security breach in state history, the Texas Comptroller's office says it mistakenly left some 3.5 million personal files on a publicly accessible computer file. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports current and retired state employees are most at risk.


Clear-cutting Bill Moves Forward in Texas House

April 11, 2011 · A bill by an East Texas state representative threatens to eliminate the rights of cities like San Antonio to enforce municipal ordinances on the clear-cutting of trees in extra-territorial jurisdictions. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the bill could go to the full Senate as early as next week.


Morgan's Wonderland Receives National Awards

April 5, 2011 · Morgan's Wonderland has received another honor for the unique service it provides to persons with disabilities. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the award also lauds the park for its leadership in marketing and outreach to the special needs community.


Land Heritage Institute Creates Phoenix From Applewhite Debacle

April 5, 2011 · More than 1,000 acres of land that was forcibly taken under eminent domain for the proposed Applewhite Reservoir is being given a new life. As Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, several years after the reservoir project was rejected twice by San Antonio voters, the newly-formed Land Heritage Institute will honor the property and its former inhabitants with hands-on history lessons for local students and residents.


Southwest Airlines Inspects Fleet

April 4, 2011 · Southwest Airlines has taken 3 jets out of service for repairs, after inspecting dozens of Boeing 737-300's for subsurface cracks. This follows an emergency landing Friday in Arizona. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more on what this could mean for passengers.


Texas House Approves Budget Bill

April 4, 2011 · The Texas House passed a $164 billion state budget late last night. The spending bill now heads to the Texas Senate where lawmakers are expected to make many changes and add billions in additional funding. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott has this recap of the weekend's debate.


Comparing State Budget Cuts

April 1, 2011 · The Texas House begins debate on its version of the state budget today. The $164 billion spending bill is about $23 billion smaller than the last budget. And unlike most other states, it's the first time Texas addressed its budget since the recent recession and national economic downturn. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on the cuts other states have made — and the fallout.


State Historical Commission Honors Local Historian

March 31, 2011 · A local man is being honored in Austin Friday for his lifetime of work in uncovering the histories of families that settled Texas. TPR's Eileen Pace reports.


Non-Profit Makes School Music More Affordable

March 31, 2011 · Thirty-five music students in five school districts are getting bonuses, of a sort, this week. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports on the first deliveries of free guitars, trumpets, and keyboards for schools in Bexar and surrounding counties.


Preliminary Report Released On Parking Garage Collapse

March 31, 2011 · TPR’s Steve Short reports that a preliminary report has been released on the cause of the collapse of a parking garage under construction at University Hospital.


Over $1 Million In Scholarships At Texas A&M-San Antonio

March 31, 2011 · The Texas A&M-San Antonio Foundation has reached its initial goal of awarding over $1 million in scholarships. TPR’s Steve Short reports.


State Is Sued Over Foster Care

March 30, 2011 · Texas has been sued by a children's advocacy organization that alleges harm to thousands of foster children overseen by the state. Texas denies the charge, as KERA's Bill Zeeble reports.


Free Rides for Fiesta

March 30, 2011 · With Fiesta right around the corner, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is preparing to unveil a free taxi service for the event. TPR’s Steve Short reports the details.


Pedestrian Plan Identifying Problem Areas

March 29, 2011 · The first steps of a pedestrian safety plan are underway after a resident survey was approved yesterday. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace says the Metropolitan Planning Organization wants the public's input to develop the master plan for the entire county.


Census Passes Over Border Colonias for Count

March 29, 2011 · When census figures for Texas were released last month, they revealed that Hispanics accounted for two-thirds of the state's growth in the last decade. Latinos now comprise nearly 40 percent of the Texas population. But as Hernán Rozemberg of Fronteras: The Changing America Desk reports, the many communities on the border called "colonias" were not counted in the census.


Spokesman Says Mexican Government Winning War on Drug Violence

March 29, 2011 · The Mexican Government's Chief Spokesperson on security issues was at UT-Austin on Monday. Speaking on the battle against drug violence South of the border. But as KUT's Mose Buchele reports, not everyone there was comforted by his presentation.


Arts Foundation Director Dies

March 29, 2011 · The managing director of the Bexar County Performing Arts Center Foundation has passed away. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


BexarMet Bill Moves to the TX House

March 28, 2011 · Last week, a bill passed the Texas Senate that would give voters served by the troubled Bexar Metropolitan Water District a chance to decide to dissolve the entity. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports that as the bill moves to the House, several lawmakers are concerned the legislation does not address all the concerns of rate payers.


Downtown B-Cycle Program Goes Live

March 28, 2011 · Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on downtown San Antonio’s new B-cycle bike sharing program, which went live on Saturday.



Villarreal Arms Constituents with Budget Information

March 28, 2011 · State Representative Mike Villarreal offered an education forum to his constituents Saturday. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the lawmaker is asking taxpayers to have their say in the Texas budget crisis.


Green Spaces Alliance Encourages Community Gardening

March 25, 2011 · It's Spring in San Antonio, and for many, that means getting dirty in the garden. Rather than do all the work alone, many are looking to friends and neighbors and forming community gardens. TPR's Terry Gildea introduces us to one organization that wants to help build more community gardens in the city.


Unemployment Dips in Texas

March 25, 2011 · The unemployment rate for February has dipped slightly across the state and in San Antonio. TPR's Steve Short has a look at the figures.


Miss San Antonio Retains Her Title

March 25, 2011 · A jury has determined that Domonique Ramirez will keep her Miss San Antonio title.


Local Literary Landmark Faces Uncertain Future

March 25, 2011 · O. Henry is one of America's best known and admired writers. But his time spent in San Antonio is largely forgotten. As part of a special series on historic preservation, Michelle Koidin Jaffee reports that a small limestone building in downtown San Antonio still stands to remind us of O. Henry's time here. But the future of the historic structure is in question.


Texas Governor Perry Fined on Ethics Charges

March 24, 2011 · Texas Governor Rick Perry has been fined $1,500 for ethics violations. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.

 


Hunger Problem Growing for Texas Seniors

March 24, 2011 · The federal government says hunger in the U.S. has reached an all-time high. For seniors, the problem is especially difficult. More than six million are considered “food insecure.” KUT's Matt Largey reports.


Proposed State Bill Threatens Municipal Regulation of Clear Cutting

March 23, 2011 · San Antonio’s city hall and local activists are joining forces to fight a proposed state law that would allow developers to clear cut trees just outside city limits. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on the bill expected to go before a state senate committee today.


Self E-Verify Allows Workers to Check Their Own Employment Eligibility Status

March 22, 2011 · People can now check their own employment eligibility status by going online and checking the Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify system. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies has more.


Texas Comptroller's Office Honored for Transparency

March 22, 2011 · The Texas Comptroller's Office has honored by national organization for providing information about government spending to the public. More from TPR's Terry Gildea.

 


Austin Teen Premieres Vampire Film at SXSW

March 22, 2011 · Eighteen-year-old Emily Hagins is just finishing high school this spring, but she's already finished her first feature-length film. "My Sucky Teen Romance" takes a bite out of the sparkly vampires from the "Twilight" franchise. In this interview, the Austin resident talks about the challenges of being both a student and filmmaker, and shares some of her early cinematic inspirations.


Texas Man Receives Nations First Full Face Transplant

March 22, 2011 · Modern medicine and determination have resulted in a Fort Worth construction worker becoming the nation's first to receive a full facial transplant. The announcement came yesterday. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports Dallas Wiens is in good condition, recovering in a Boston hospital.


'Natural Selection,' a Dark Comedy That Lit Up at SXSW

March 22, 2011 · The Texas film "Natural Selection" was the big winner at the 2011 SXSW Film Awards, receiving six in total, including the Grand Jury Prize and audience pick for Best Narrative Feature. Texas Public Radio speaks with the films directors and two lead actors.


'Something Ventured' Chronicles the Early History of Tech Companies

March 22, 2011 · You may know about how Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started Apple Computers in their garage, but how did they grow that home-brew computing operation into a multi-billion dollar business? The answer is venture capital. The documentary "Something Ventured" chronicles the early history of companies like Apple, Intel, and Genentech by talking to the handful of risk-takers that knew a good idea when they saw one. In this interview, TPR's Nathan Cone talks to the directors of the film, Dan Geller and Dayna Goldfine, and the Executive Producer, Molly Davis.


UTSA Invites Public for Wind Energy Discussion

March 21, 2011 · UTSA energy researchers are hoping for a packed house when they reach out to the community to offer energy information Tuesday. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Famous Texans' Shoes and Hats in Special ITC Exhibit

March 21, 2011 · If you're looking for a quiet activity to wrap up Spring Break, think about hoofing it downtown to the Institute of Texan Cultures for the "Head to Foot" exhibit. As Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, you'll find an array of shoes, boots, hats and spurs of famous — and inspiring — Texans which tell their unique Lone Star State stories.


Lisa Robinson, Annie Howell, and Anna Margaret Hollyman of 'Small, Beautiful Moving Parts'

March 21, 2011 · Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone interviews three technophiles behind "Small, Beautifully Moving Parts," a feature film spun from a web series and premiering at SXSW.

 


Voter ID Stalls in Texas House

March 21, 2011 · Members of the Texas House began debating a bill today that would require voters to present photo identification at the polls. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports on why the legislation was sent back to committee on a technicality.


Villarreal Weighs In on Decision to Tap State’s Rainy Day Fund

March 21, 2011 · Last week the Texas House Appropriations Committee approved a plan to fix the state’s current budget deficit by taking some money from the Rainy Day Fund. TPR’s Terry Gildea talks to Democrat Mike Villarreal, one of the San Antonio lawmakers who voted to tap the state’s surplus.


Nuclear Is Still Part of the San Antonio Energy Conversation

March 18, 2011 · CPS Energy talks with its supplier of nuclear energy will resume, but the question is, "When?" Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, the Japanese nuclear plant disaster postponed but may not abate San Antonio's participation in atomic power.


Bill Sinkin Honored for a Lifetime of Service

March 18, 2011 · A San Antonio icon was honored this week for his years of work on behalf of the city and his behind-the-scenes efforts to create Hemisfair. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports former Mayor Lila Cockrell was on hand to honor Bill Sinkin for a lifetime of work on behalf of San Antonio.


Villarreal Offers Bills to Reform State Board of Education Practices

March 17, 2011 · A San Antonio state lawmaker is introducing legislation in the Texas House that would limit the powers of the State Board of Education to revise textbooks. TPR's Terry Gildea has more.


Director Berndt Mader and Actor Ryan Akin on 'Five Time Champion'

March 17, 2011 · Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone interviews director Berndt Mader and actor Ryan Akin about 'Five Time Champion,' one of two films shot in Smithville, Texas, that screened at SXSW this year.


Director Vikram Gandhi on His Documentary 'Kumaré'

March 17, 2011 · Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone interviews Vikram Ghandi, director of the 2011 SXSW Film Awards-winner for Best Documentary.

 


Demonstrators Bring Nuclear Concerns to CPS' Door

March 16, 2011 · CPS Energy has suspended discussions with NRC Energy about nuclear power plant additions, but a local environmental watchdog group is asking for those talks to come off the table completely. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the group Energia Mia staged a protest outside CPS headquarters Tuesday.


Tussle Over Foster Kids' Benefits

March 16, 2011 · Critics of foster care policies are launching a nationwide campaign against what they say is a common practice: state agencies taking control of Social Security benefits earmarked for foster kids. Federal legislation was filed today that would end that practice.


Texas Switching Execution Drug Amid Shortage

March 16, 2011 · State officials say they have settled on a replacement for one of the drugs in the three-drug protocol used in lethal injections. Many states, including Texas, have been unable to find new supplies of sodium thiopental after the drug's only U.S.-based manufacturer stopped making it. KUT's Matt Largey reports.


Cornyn Continues to Pursue More Access to Public Information

March 16, 2011 · Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn took time this week on Capitol Hill to advocate for greater access to public information. It’s been a long time pet project for Cornyn and has produced an unlikely bipartisan relationship. TPR’s Terry Gildea has more.


Gunn Family’s Land Donation Completes Concepción Park

March 16, 2011 · Friends of the San Antonio Missions, Los Compadres, have received the largest land donation in the organization’s history. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the property is key to development of the Mission Concepción area and the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River.


Texas German Dialect is Dying Out

March 16, 2011 · Texas German is a remnant of a robust German immigrant community that settled in the Hill Country near San Antonio. From the Fronteras: the Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports that the dialect is dying out.


Local Toyota Plant Weathers Japan's Crisis

March 16, 2011 · The earthquake off the coast of Japan has not interupted the supply of parts to the local Toyota truck plant. TPR's Brian Kirkpatrick reports company officials hope to keep it that way.


Texas Cleans Up at SXSW Film Awards

March 16, 2011 · A Texas-based film was the big winner at this year's South By Southwest film festival as awards were handed out last night from the jury and the audience polls. Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone reports from Austin.


Perry Relents To Using Some Rainy Day Money

March 16, 2011 · Public pressure was building and Governor Perry has relented. He’s agreed to allow lawmakers to spend some of the Rainy Day Reserve fund. KERA‘s Shelley Kofler has more on what that means.


Local and State Democratic Leaders Call for Bexar County Democratic Chairman to Step Down

March 15, 2011 · The political fallout continues over profane and anti-homosexual remarks made by Bexar County Democratic Party Chairman Dan Ramos. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports that local and state party officials are demanding that Ramos step down from his post.


Exception for Veterans Denied in Abolishing the Emergency Mortgage Relief Program

March 15, 2011 · A program that helped 30,000 to 50,000 homeowners a year avoid foreclosure has fallen under the federal budget axe, at least in the Republican-majority House. But as Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, there may still be hope in the Senate, especially for veterans.


Lawmakers Will Vote on HB275 to Tap the Rainy Day Fund

March 15, 2011 · Lawmakers in Austin are ready to tap into the state’s Rainy Day Fund to bail out the current state budget, but they appear to be worried about the political fall out. They are looking to the governor's office for guidance, but so far they've been getting mixed messages. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Social Media For The Social Good

March 14, 2011 · Social networking for the social good: That was the topic of a South by Southwest Interactive panel today. And as KUT's Nathan Bernier reports, nonprofits are using tools like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to grow their base of support.


Central Texas Hearts and Wallets Open for Japan

March 14, 2011 · As the twin disasters of earthquake and tsunami were still ravaging Japan, Central Texans were already opening their hearts and wallets to survivors. KUT's Ian Crawford reports one Austin group is feeling the devastation more than others might.


Texans Rally at State Capitol for Education Funding

March 14, 2011 · Educators, parents, and taxpayers from 300 Texas school districts turned out for Saturday's rally to Save Texas Schools at the State Capitol. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


New Boeing Contract Brings Hundreds of New Jobs to San Antonio

March 14, 2011 · San Antonio's Boeing workers and local community leaders played host to Boeing and Japan Air Lines executives Friday, announcing the company's largest airline contract job in San Antonio so far. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports Boeing is hiring 450 high-skilled workers for its "change incorporation" for Japan's fleet of 787 Dreamliners.


Mission Theater Closed For Repairs

March 14, 2011 · Despite spring break tourists coming to San Antonio this week, the Visitor Center Theater at Mission San José is being closed for renovations. TPR's Steve Short reports.
 


Bill Filed to Change State Board of Education Procedures

March 14, 2011 · A San Antonio state representative has filed a bill that would make some changes to on State Board of Education procedures. TPR's Steve Short reports.


Chamber Offers Optimistic Predictions Based on 2010 Trends

March 11, 2011 · The Greater San Antonio Chamber’s Economic Forecast based on 2010 trends finds San Antonio in a good position to bounce back from the recession. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports creating new small businesses is key to increasing the number of available jobs.


SA High School Band is Safe in Hawaii After Tsunami

March 11, 2011 · Alamo Heights High School band was in Hawaii when the island state was hit by a tsunami generated from the earthquake off the coast of Japan. TPR's Brian Kirkpatrick reports.


The San Antonio Military Health System Is Created

March 11, 2011 · As mandated by the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law, a new era of military medical care is being established in San Antonio. TPR’s Steve Short reports.


State Lawmakers Hear About Problems at the Alamo

March 10, 2011 · The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the group that cares for the Alamo, were called to the State Capitol yesterday. They were asked to explain how well they are maintaining the state shrine. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports the DRT has been accused of not focusing adequately on preserving the 300-year-old structure.


Dye To Be Injected Into The Edwards Aquifer

March 10, 2011 · The Edwards Aquifer Authority, in cooperation with BexarMet and local well owners, plans to conduct a tracer test beginning this Friday. TPR's Steve Short reports a non-toxic dye will be injected into the aquifer to investigate groundwater flow paths in northern Bexar County near Lorence Creek.


A New Look For Market Square This Weekend

March 10, 2011 · San Antonio's Market Square is sporting a new look and welcomes spring breakers to Fiesta Primavera this weekend. More from TPR's Steve Short.

 


Education Rally Planned in Austin

March 10, 2011 · Public school teachers from across Texas have a message for state lawmakers: They're not going down without a fight. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


TX Democrats Respond to Proposed Medicaid Cuts

March 9, 2011 · Members of the Democratic Caucus in the Texas House are denouncing the latest Republican budget proposal. They say that if it’s passed, hundreds of nursing homes across the state could close, and thousands of senior citizens would be without a assisted living care. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea has more.


New Report Shows “Uptick” in Local Economy

March 9, 2011 · The local economy is in an “uptick.” That’s according to a UTSA economic development expert, who has produced a report of small business activity over the past year. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports San Antonio has unique strengths that are helping its small business owners over the hump.


Citizens Demand Action in Austin to Solve Budget Crisis

March 9, 2011 · Hundreds of San Antonio residents at a town hall meeting in Edgewood ISD Tuesday night demanded lawmakers take action to solve the budget crisis that threatens Texas education. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


The Fate of BexarMet Goes to Legislative Committees

March 9, 2011 · Supporters and detractors of Bexar Metropolitan Water District were in Austin Tuesday debating if local rate payers should have a vote to dissolve the troubled water utility. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Funeral Arrangements Complete For Local Priest

March 9, 2011 · Funeral arrangements have been finalized for a local priest who drowned while swimming in his native El Salvador. More from TPR's Steve Short.


A Warrant Roundup Of Hot Check Writers Is Underway

March 9, 2011 · If you've written a hot check and haven't made good on that payment, don't be surprised if you get a knock on your door today. TPR's Steve Short reports.


Film on Women's Rights in Iraq Screens at UTSA

March 8, 2011 · In honor of Women’s History Month, tonight, UTSA invites the public to a screening of the documentary “Quest for Honor.” Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports on the film that addresses the killings of female family members whose Iraqi families face dishonor by the society.


Proposed Bill Would Allow Direct Access to Physical Therapists

March 8, 2011 · Most health insurance providers allow patients to see a specialist without seeing a doctor first. But if you want to see a physical therapist in Texas, you still need a physician referral. A bill being considered in the Texas House could change that. TPR's Terry Gildea has more.


Wildfire Danger Continues In West Texas

March 8, 2011 · A little over a week after devastating wildfires ripped through West Texas, forecasters are predicting similar conditions today and encouraging residents in the affected area to be prepared to evacuate. Texas Public Radio's Steve Short.


Greater San Antonio Chamber Launches Coupon Website

March 8, 2011 · The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce has launched a coupon website to help families save money. Texas Public Radio's Steve Short Reports.


State Lawmakers Raiding City Revenue

March 8, 2011 · Legislators trying to close the gigantic state budget hole plan to raid city revenue and increase traffic fees. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports on how the state budget crisis could threaten budgets for cities including Dallas.


Lawmakers Try to Save Arts Class From Budget Ax

March 8, 2011 · While lawmakers in Austin are focused on cuts to the state budget, some are working to save art courses in public schools. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


FIRST Robotics Competition Descends on the Alamo City

March 7, 2011 · More than 1500 kids from all over Texas, neighboring states and Mexico descended on the Alamo City in the first week of March for the FIRST Robotics Competition — the first of the worldwide events to be hosted by San Antonio. The “Battle Bots” type contest is a powerhouse of ideas and technology — one that is attracting more and more girls. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the Girl Scout competitors, team name: “Kobayashi Maru.”


Wild Hogs Vex Rural Texans

March 7, 2011 ·The State has a message for rural Texans with a wild hog problem: it's their problem. Texas Public Radio's Brain Kirkpatrick reports.

 


Bexar County Launches Interactive Community Map

March 7, 2011 · Visitors to Bexar County’s website now have a multitude of information available with a few simple clicks of the mouse through the Bexar County Community Dashboard. Texas Public Radio's Steve Short reports.


TX Senator Jeff Wentworth, A Self-Styled Conservative

March 7, 2011 · San Antonio Republican Jeff Wentworth has represented District 25 in the Texas Senate for nearly two decades. He is staunchly conservative on some issues and surprisingly progressive on others. TPR’s Terry Gildea profiles the politician who spends less time worrying about what partisan Republicans are saying and works towards decisions he believes are best for the people he represents.


Rey Feo LXIII on Final Push for Scholarship

March 4, 2011 · The "common man's king," El Rey Feo is about to embark on a wild ride before Fiesta even begins. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports on the important education mission of San Antonio's "Ugly King."


Fifteenth Annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice Promises to be Largest Yet for San Antonio

March 4, 2011 · Organizers are hoping for a record turnout at this year’s Cesar Chavez March for Justice and record food donations for San Antonio’s hungry. TPR's Eileen Pace reports.
 


Texas Brewpubs Fight For Right to Sell Their Beers Offsite

March 4, 2011 · Ever wonder why the beer you enjoy at a Texas brewpub isn’t available in the grocery store? It’s illegal in this state for brewpubs to distribute their beer outside of their establishments. TPR's Terry Gildea reports on how one San Antonio State lawmaker is trying to make craft-brewed Texas beer more available to consumers.


Women's March Planned to Protest State Budget Cuts

March 4, 2011 · The 21st Annual San Antonio International Woman's Day March will be held this Saturday. Yesterday organizers called on supporters to join the march to fight state budget cuts that hurt women. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


House To Vote On Abortion Sonogram Bill

March 3, 2011 · The Texas House will take up a bill requiring sonograms before abortions again today. KERA's BJ Austin says Democrats managed to delay a vote yesterday by challenging committee procedures.


NEISD Board Approves Bond Proposal

March 2, 2011 · On Monday evening board members from the Northeast Independent School District approved a bond proposal. TPR’s Terry Gildea reports on what they’re asking voters to pass.


Texas Marks 175th Anniversary of Declaration of Freedom

March 1, 2011 · Wednesday, March 2, is the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Texas declaration of independence. The historic event happened in Washington-on-the-Brazos, and as TPR’s David Martin Davies reports, the community will be marking the day in a special way.


School Board Candidates Offered New Learning Opportunities

March 1, 2011 · A new professional development program for school board members begins this week in San Antonio. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on a workshop designed to provide a foundation for potential candidates who have already filed for school board elections or are thinking about serving their school districts.


Former Dallas Mayor On Senate Campaign Trail

February 28, 2011 · Former Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert is in Washington D.C. today. KERA's B.J. Austin reports on Leppert's bid for the U.S. Senate and his efforts to assemble a campaign team.




HemisFair Redevelopment Moving Forward

February 28, 2011 · Last week, San Antonio residents wrapped up their second phase of planning for the redevelopment of HemisFair Park. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the park’s next incarnation is part of the mayor’s vision of revitalization for downtown San Antonio.


June Scobee Campaigns for Challenger Centers in San Antonio

February 25, 2011 · What were you doing at the moment of the Challenger explosion 25 years ago? It is a question that most Americans can answer. Astronaut Dick Scobee's widow, author June Scobee Rodgers, was in San Antonio in February to help open a new Challenger Center at San Antonio College — and to promote her new book, Silver Linings. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


French Culture Celebration Kicks Off

February 25, 2011 · San Antonio will spend the month of March rediscovering its French roots. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Sonogram Bill Passes Key Committee

February 24, 2011 · A proposed state law that would require women to receive a sonogram before an abortion cleared a key house committee on Wednesday. If it passes the House, then Texas would carry one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the nation. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


House Bill 104 Aims to Protect School Budget Cuts

February 24, 2011 · Some state lawmakers anticipate a legal challenge to the school finance system in response to budget cuts. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on how a proposed state constitutional amendment would protect the cuts and also eliminate a practice known as Robin Hood finance.


Education Cuts May Impact Standardized Test Roll Out

February 23, 2011 · School districts and staff around the state are preparing for budget cuts and layoffs that could happen in the next few months. But the cuts to state education funding also have some worried about 2012 when a new school accountability system begins to roll out. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports on how some want the STAAR test delayed to give districts time to recover from the 2011 cuts.


Non-Profits Say Budget Cuts Will Hurt Community Services

February 23, 2011 · Many of San Antonio’s non-profits gathered today to protest the state budget cuts and demand tapping the Rainy Day Fund. They say the reduction in state spending is going to hit hard in the local community. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Rep. Castro Fighting Proposed Education Cuts

February 21, 2011 · State lawmakers in Austin are scrambling to find ways to fend off proposed budget cuts to education. One lawmaker poised to play a key role is Democratic Representative Joaquin Castro. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea presents this profile of the San Antonio lawmaker.


Developments for New San Antonio Opera Company

February 21, 2011 · San Antonio could soon be seeing a second local opera company taking the stage. The new opera group says they are making great strides in their development. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies has the story.


Burgess Aims to Lift Freeze on Federal Funds for TX

February 21, 2011 · Supporters say a weekend vote by the U.S. House could be the beginning of Texas receiving $831 million school dollars now on hold, though one key House democrat disagrees. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports on the early morning vote and what happens next.


New Report Gives Perspective to Drug Violence in Mexico

February 18, 2011 · A new report on drug violence in Mexico shows that the majority of drug violence is happening in only one part of the nation. More than 80 percent of last year's record number of murders occurred in four Mexican states. From the Fronteras Desk, Amy Isackson reports.


Texas Census Reports Increase in Urban and Latino Populations

February 18, 2011 · The 2010 Census is revealing a state that is increasingly urban and Latino. Texas' largest cities grew in population and diversity, as did many suburban counties. On the otherhand, many rural parts of West Texas saw a decrease in numbers. Hernán Rozemberg of the Fronteras Changing Americas Desk reports on the results of the Texas Census Report.


Texas Sheriffs Oppose Texas Anti-Illegal Immigration Law

February 18, 2011 · Lawmakers in Austin are considering passing a law for Texas that would be similar to Arizona's SB 1070 anti-illegal immigration law. One group that is stepping forward in opposition to the Texas bill is state law enforcement officers. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


UTSA Gets the Conversation Started

February 17, 2011 · UTSA’s 12th Annual Great Conversation benefiting the Honors College is set for Tuesday evening, February 22. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on the event that draws together a diverse group of community and academic leaders at the dinner table with guests from the community.


Lawmakers Battle Over the Rainy Day Fund

February 16, 2011 · Texas lawmakers are proposing billions of dollars in cuts during the current legislative session to help close a budget hole. One thing Texas has that most other states don’t is a sizable savings account to help make ends meet, but as KUT’s Ben Philpott reports, some lawmakers don’t want to spend any of the projected $9.4 billion dollars in the state’s Rainy Day Fund.


Bexar County Saves on Flood Control Projects

February 16, 2011 · The economic climate is providing an advantage to governmental agencies working on capital improvement projects. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports the Bexar County Flood Control Program is one of those entities listing recession-related savings.


Library Begins New Strategic Plan

February 16, 2011 · The San Antonio Public Library System announced on Monday that it is creating a strategic five-year plan. TPR’s Eileen Pace reports on how the library is hopes to provide competitive services in an evolving 21st Century.


NIOSA Poster Unveiled

February 16, 2011 · If you love San Antonio, then you, too, may adopt the passion of collecting Fiesta memorabilia. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace says her weakness has extended to NIOSA posters.


State Senate Grills Regulators Over Power Outages

February 15, 2011 · State lawmakers grilled regulators and energy industry representatives Tuesday, demanding answers for the cause of dozens of power plants to fail February 2 and lead to rolling power outages across Texas.


Lawmakers Debate Teacher Paycut Options

February 15, 2011 · State lawmakers say school districts may prefer cutting teacher salaries to massive layoffs, but right now they don't have that option. KERA's Shelley Kofler has more on how the consequences of a pay raise passed in 2009.


Library Begins New Strategic Plan

February 15, 2011 · Library board members were joined by past and present local officials to kick off a strategic plan that will build a 5-year vision for the library and its users. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports library clients have a more varied list of needs than ever before, and the library is working to respond.


Mayor Announces Bid for Reelection

February 14, 2011 · Mayor Julián Castro stood before Café College on Sunday to announce his bid for reelection as mayor of the nation's seventh largest city. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on how Castro was joined by high-school and college students to shine a light on the focus of his campaign.


Fuzzy Valentine Friends Ready for Adoption

February 14, 2011 · Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports, if your loved one shuns chocolate decadence, perhaps she would prefer a “fuzzy valentine.”

 


St. Mary's President Stepping Down

February 14, 2011 · St. Mary's University President, Dr. Charles Cotrell, will be stepping down after 12 years of service as the school's leader. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.

 


Same-Sex Couples Demonstrate With Photo Session

February 11, 2011 · Not everyone who wants to join in marriage is eligible to participate in the county’s mass wedding on Valentine’s Day. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on how same-sex couples will demonstrate nationwide this year to promote legalizing same-sex marriage.


Political Ire Over School Budget Crisis at NISD Town Hall

February 11, 2011 · The Texas school budget crisis was again the topic of a community meeting — this time at San Antonio’s Northside Independent School District. David Martin Davies reports on the the sharp political tone of the meeting.


Frigid Weather Disrupts Turtles on Texas Coastlines

February 11, 2011 · Hundreds of sea turtles in South Texas trying to escape the frigid water are washing ashore, many already dead. Hernán Rozemberg, from Fronteras: The Changing America Desk explains volunteers are on rescue duty as the region's cold spell continues.


Department of Education Seeks Advice

February 11, 2011 · Dropout rates remain high in Texas, especially among Spanish speakers. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports on federal education leaders meeting in Dallas and five other cities, as they hope to improve that outcome.


Computer Recycling in Texas Doubles

February 11, 2011 · Texans have bought into computer recycling. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


SAISD Planning Deep Cuts at Area Schools

February 10, 2011 · The state’s budget crisis hit home last night for faculty, parents and students of the San Antonio Independent School District. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports on just how severe the school district will have to cut its spending due to the shortfall in state funding.


Abbott Testifies Against EPA

February 10, 2011 · Attorney General Greg Abbott says Texas will drop six lawsuits against the Environmental Protection Agency if Congress passes a bill that prevents the EPA from regulating greenhouse gases. KERA's Shelley Kofler has more on Texas' latest skirmish over air pollution rules.


UTSA Receives Gift to Develop Science Program

February 9, 2011 · UTSA will be building another academic science program, thanks to a $4million dollar gift from one of the world's top suppliers of oil and gas industry technology and information solutions. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace has more.


Smith Now Key To Shaping Immigration Legislation in House

February 9, 2011 · When the first in a series of immigration hearings in Washington begin this week, a congressman from San Antonio will be the Republican Party's point man. Representative Lamar Smith pledges to reverse course from the Democratic leadership by emphasizing border security. Hernán Rozemberg of Fronteras: The Changing America Desk takes a look at the new House Judiciary Committee chairman.


SA-to-DC Trip Called Success

February 9, 2011 · Delegates on the “SA-to-DC” trip came back to San Antonio with a report of success about their federal agenda. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace has more.


VIA Transit Works to Gain Federal Funding

February 9, 2011 · Delegates on the "SA-to-DC" trip came together Tuesday to make an unusual presentation for San Antonio's transit plan. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the group got the federal authority's attention with a synergistic plan for San Antonio's transit system.


Middleton Retires as Head of NEISD

February 9, 2011 · Dr. Richard Middleton, the superintendent of the Northeast Independent School District, officially announced his retirement on Wednesday. TPR's Terry Gildea reports.

 


Gov. Perry's State of the State Address

February 8, 2011 · Governor Rick Perry gave his sixth State of the State address Tuesday. While he announced that the state of Texas is strong, Perry did say there are tough budget choices facing the state. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports.


Rep. Smith Introduces Bill to Rein-in Medical Malpractice Suits

February 7, 2011 · A San Antonio congressman wants to reduce the number of medical malpractice suits filed in the U.S. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


Assault Weapon Reporting Rule For Border States Delayed

February 7, 2011 · A measure that would help federal authorities control sales of a group of guns known to be favored among Mexican drug cartels is stalled in the White House. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, reporter Amy Isackson has more.


Assault Weapon Reporting Rule For Border States Delayed

February 7, 2011 · A measure that would help federal authorities control sales of a group of guns known to be favored among Mexican drug cartels is stalled in the White House. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, reporter Amy Isackson has more.


SAFILM, KLRN Partner to Bring Back Fresh Cut

February 7, 2011 · The San Antonio Film Festival has partnered with KLRN to revive a student filmmaking program. Texas Public Radio's Nathan Cone reports.


SAHA Prepared to Help Needy in Their Homes

February 3, 2011 · The San Antonio Housing Authority is keeping an eye on properties that may need a little help if weather gets really bad tonight. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports.


Nuevo Laredo Police Chief Slain

February 3, 2011 · After barely a month on the job, the police chief of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, across the Rio Grande from Laredo, was shot to death in an ambush late Wednesday night.


More Outages Expected, Texans React

February 3, 2011 · Texans across the state could again experience rolling power outages today, according to ERCOT, the agency that operates the electric power grid which serves most of the state. ERCOT says the frigid weather has caused electricity use to approach record levels, and it is urging customers to conserve wherever possible to avoid further blackouts. The ongoing concern about power capacity follows a day that was confusing for some consumers, frustrating for others as KERA's Shelley Kofler reports.


Outages Caused by 50 Failures Across State

February 3, 2011 · Those rolling brownouts were not just the result of one or two problems at Texas power plants. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


No Sales at Texas Liquor Stores on Super Bowl Sunday

February 3, 2011 · Superbowl Sunday isn't so super for anyone in Texas looking to buy a bottle of bourbon. The state's liquor laws are putting the booze stores on the sidelines. TPR's David Martin Davies reports the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States doesn't like it.


Red Cross Responds to Severe Weather

February 2, 2011 · The Red Cross is gearing up to help those without sufficient heating systems in their homes. But with changing weather and electricity situations, Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports even the Red Cross is in a "wait-and-see" mode.


New Braunfels Utilities Takes Action to Ensure Power

February 2, 2011 · Electric customers in New Braunfels experienced minimum brown-outs today by conserving on commercial power. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Environmentalists Push for Reductions In Mercury Emissions

February 1, 2011 · As the Environmental Protection Agency prepares to issue a new rule for mercury reductions at coal-fired power plants across the nation, environmental groups are working to get the word out about the severity of mercury pollution in Texas. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports Texas is the worst mercury-emitter in the country.


Phishing Expedition Targets Local Bank and Credit Union Customers

February 1, 2011 · A financial “phishing” scam has affected customers —perhaps numbering in the thousands— of local banks and credit unions. Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace uncovered the story that started over the weekend.


State Officials Predict Decrease in Pension Plan Contributions

February 1, 2011 · As Texas lawmakers look to slash billions in state spending, pension plans have become fair game. KUT’s Mose Buchele reports on a legislative proposal to decrease state contributions to some plans.


Proposed Medicaid Cuts Worry Texas Nursing Homes

February 1, 2011 · State agencies facing the budget axe this session say the only thing left to cut are the services they provide. From KUT News, Ben Philpott reports.


Rep. Villarreal Proposes School Board Reform

February 1, 2011 · A San Antonio State Representative wants to give city governments more sway over school boards whose school districts are academically failing. Texas Public Radio’s Terry Gildea reports.


Freezing Temps Require Preparation

February 1, 2011 · As temperatures drop over the next few days, Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports on how home insurers prepare to answers calls concerning water damage from frozen pipes.


S.A. Researchers Partner With China For Cancer Drug Trails

January 31, 2011 · A San Antonio cancer research center has announced it will partner with a research group in China. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the announcement marks the first time the U.S. and China have worked together in a drug trial.


Space Shuttle Columbia Tribute Museum Opens in East Texas

January 28, 2011 · Eight years after the Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart over east Texas, the town of Hemphill is set to open a tribute museum to the astronauts and two rescue workers who died during and after the Columbia tragedy. Kate Archer Kent of Red River Radio reports.


Texas Attorney General Announces Financial Literacy Initiative

January 28, 2011 · The state's attorney general came to UTSA today to announce a new program to teach college students how to manage their personal finances. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Questions Raised About SA Chimpanzees Used in Bio-Research

January 28, 2011 · It was just 6 million years ago that humans and chimpanzees shared a common ancestor. And bio-science research has made use of our commonality with chimps. A lot of that life-saving medical research is happening in San Antonio, but animal rights groups say the practice needs to stop. Texas Public Radio's David Martin Davies reports.


Construction of Southside Sports Park Breaks Ground

January 27, 2011 · The 35-acre Concepción Sports Park, seen as pivotal to boosting the south side's economy, is the latest project of Bexar County's revitalization efforts for the area. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


VIA Asks Community Input on 25-Year Transit Plan

January 26, 2011 · VIA Metropolitan Transit is asking community members to attend one of five upcoming public meetings to offer input to its 25-year transit plan. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Texas School Libraries Facing Cuts

January 25, 2011 · The $27 billion budget shortfall is forcing lawmakers in Austin to make some deep cuts. David Martin Davies reports on how school libraries across the state may be among the education resources hit the hardest.


City Amends Solid Waste Codes to Improve Recycling Efforts

January 25, 2011 · The City of San Antonio is making some changes to the city's garbage pick-up codes. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports there are some new services offered and some changes to existing services.


Schools Get Free Salad Bars

January 24, 2011 · Representatives from 13 local school districts came together Friday for a workshop on making the most of grant-funded salad bars provided at schools this year. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Archidiocese Settles Fiala Lawsuit

January 24, 2011 · The San Antonio Archdiocese has settled a lawsuit stemming from the alleged sexual assault of a 16-year-old boy. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Public Utility Commission Rules on Placement of Transmission Lines through Texas Hill Country

January 24, 2011 · The Texas Public Utility Commission has unanimously settled on a route for transmission lines to carry wind power through the Texas Hill Country. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Family Astronomy Night at UTSA

January 21, 2011 · Families are invited to spend "Third Fridays" with astronomers at UTSA. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


FAA Fines San Antonio Aerospace

January 21, 2011 · The Federal Aviation Administration is fining San Antonio Aerospace more than one million dollars for not following federal rules related to hiring. More from Texas Public Radio's Terry Gildea.


Houston Hospital Prepares for Giffords' Arrival

January 21, 2011 · The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research is getting ready for the arrival of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. The Houston hospital goes by the acronym TIRR and is part of the Memorial Hermann system. Giffords is expected to arrive in Houston this morning. Carrie Feibel reports.


Air Taxis Ease Border Crossing for Mexican Shoppers

January 20, 2011 · Many Mexican nationals are permanently relocating north of the border to escape violence at home. But not all want to move for good. Some just want to keep their traditional weekend shopping getaway, so they're taking to the skies instead of the road. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg has the story.


Art Featured Throughout Renovated Lila Cockrell Theater

January 20, 2011 · The city has rededicated the renovated Lila Cockrell Theater with a birthday celebration for the former mayor. Officials also dedicated new art by Ansen Seale and honored some older works. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Representatives Burgess, Johnson Differ On Repealing Health Care Plan

January 19, 2011 · A vote to repeal the national health care bill is scheduled today in the U.S. House, and the vote is expected to be along party lines. Now that Republicans control that chamber, the repeal may succeed there, though it's likely to fail in the Senate where Democrats are still a majority. KERA asked two Dallas-area representatives voting today to explain their different perspectives. KERA's Shelley Kofler reports.


CPS Unveils Aggressive Clean Energy Plan

January 19, 2011 · Solar is the next renewable on the agenda of the CPS management team. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports on an ambitious plan that would make the CPS transition to solar an affordable proposition.


News Reporter Announces Bid for City Council

January 18, 2011 · Retired news reporter Bud Little announced his candidacy for city council in District 10. More from Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace.


NEISD Honored for Clean Air in Schools

January 18, 2011 · Northeast ISD has been honored by the EPA for raising the standard of air quality in its schools. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Texas Job Cuts Coming

January 18, 2011 · Some state leaders have begun to warn that the state's dire fiscal situation will lead to the loss of several thousand state jobs. We'll get a better idea of just what those lost jobs could be, when House budget writers release their first draft budget later today. But as Ben Philpott reports for KUT News and the Texas Tribune, the thousands of state jobs expected to be cut might just be the beginning.


Bill Proposes Statewide Texting Ban

January 14, 2011 · Just as San Antonio's ordinance banning texting while driving went into effect, lawmakers in Austin are proposing similar bills for a statewide ban. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Jobs to be Cut State Budget

January 14, 2011 · Lawmakers in the Texas Senate and House are revealing a few details of their initial budget drafts. From Austin KERA's Shelley Kofler says layoffs and furloughs will help close the spending gap.


BioMed SA Makes Leadership Change

January 13, 2011 · BioMed SA, the nonprofit organization that promotes and advocates for new scientific and medical research in the city, is getting a new leader. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


TAB Pushes Education Agenda

January 13, 2011 · Texas business leaders are asking state legislators to change the way students are chosen to receive the Texas Grant. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Hutchinson Not Seeking Re-election

January 13, 2011 · Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison will not seek re-election when her term is up in 2012. KERA's BJ Austin says the Senator from Dallas made the announcement in a letter to supporters today.


Local Native American Community Seeks Tribal Recognition

January 13, 2011 · Despite its location in the Southwest, Texas is only home to three federally recognized Indian tribes. A little known Native American community in San Antonio is trying to be the fourth. But after more than a decade of waiting, the group has decided to revive its ancient culture on its own. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


State Senator Calls for Dissolution of BexarMet Water District

January 13, 2011 · A bill introduced by State Senator Carlos Uresti this week could result in the dissolution of the long-troubled BexarMet water utility. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Public Input Sought for Hemisfair Plan

January 12, 2011 · San Antonio residents are invited to contribute ideas for the redevelopment of Hemisfair Park. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Straus Denounces Activist Threats

January 12, 2011 · Governor Perry, the Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House have called a press conference for Wednesday morning. Many hope they'll explain how they plan to close an enormous budget shortfall without new taxes. The press conference will follow the first day of the legislative session where House Speaker Joe Straus denounced tactics employed by conservative activists. KERA's Shelley Kofler is in Austin and has more.


A Home for Haiti

January 12, 2011 · Two San Antonians are doing what they can to help in Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake. Texas Public Radio's Ernie Villarreal reports.


NISD Makes Budget Plans

January 11, 2011 · Education may be hardest-hit by state budget cuts. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports the still-growing Northside ISD is planning for the worst, and its leaders are calling on the 82nd legislature to fix—once and for all—the problem of education funding.


Education on Joaquin Castro's Legislative Agenda

January 10, 2011 · State Representative Joaquin Castro plans to continue his education efforts in the 82nd Legislature, especially working to decrease the drop out rate in both high schools and colleges. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Asylum Denied for Mexican Police Officer

January 10, 2011 · In a potentially precedent-setting legal case, a Mexican cop's attempt to become a U.S. refugee was rejected. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, HernánRozemberg has the story.


SAISD Board Anticipates State Budget Cuts

January 7, 2011 · Facing massive state budget cuts, school districts across the state are considering how they will make ends meet in the coming year. As Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports, SAISD convened a special board meeting Wednesday night to crunch some numbers.


Texas Lawmakers Looking to Challenge Birthright Citizenship

January 7, 2011 · Legislators from 14 states, including Texas, are meeting in Washington this week. They're considering a challenge to the constitution on the definition of citizenship. From Fronteras: The Changing America desk, Ruxandra Guidi reports.


Sexy Kidnapper Lures Victims in Mexico

January 7, 2011 · The FBI is investigating a shooting incident in Nogales, Arizona, involving the U.S. Border Patrol. It is the third shooting in Nogales involving federal agents since November. From Fronteras: The Changing Americas Desk in San Diego, Amy Isackson reports.


Border Patrol Kills Teen

January 7, 2011 · The FBI is investigating a shooting incident in Nogales, Arizona, involving the U.S. Border Patrol. It is the third shooting in Nogales involving federal agents since November. From Fronteras: The Changing Americas Desk, Michel Marizco reports.


San Antonio Food Company Sued in Celery Death

January 7, 2011 · A San Antonio produce company that was shut down by the state has been sued in connection with the death of a Guadalupe County man. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Big Bend Border Crossing to Possibly Reopen

January 7, 2011 · The U.S. government will reopen an informal crossing with Mexico at Big Bend National Park that was closed years ago due to security concerns. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, Hernán Rozemberg reports.


Library Cleans Out Old Technology

January 7, 2011 · It's a sign of the times. The San Antonio library system is getting rid of all of its books on tape and VHS movies. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Texas Treasure Award Goes to San Antonio Firm

January 4, 2011 · A San Antonio architecture firm is now officially a Texas Treasure. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


More People Following the Jobs To Texas

January 4, 2011 · Texas gained more residents than any other state during 2010. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports on the results of an annual study that counts moves made by Allied Van Lines.


Sales Tax Increase Proposed to Balance State Budget

January 4, 2011 · It's not very hard to find strange bedfellows at the Texas legislature when the bills start flying. Republicans and Democrats frequently cross the aisle to support legislation that they feel will help their constituents. For KUT News and the Texas Tribune, Ben Philpott reports the same could be true as lawmakers try to figure out how to balance the state budget during the upcoming legislative session.


Mission San Juan Vandalized

January 3, 2011 · Mission San Juan Capistrano has been cleaned up after the irreverent defacing of the church by vandals over the weekend. Texas Public Radio's Eileen Pace reports.


Brownsville Bag Ban Goes into Effect Wednesday

January 3, 2011 · This week plastic grocery bags will be sacked in Brownsville - making it the first city in Texas to adopt the ban. Texas Public Radio's Yvette Benavides has the story.


Border Patrol Murder Investigation Stalled

January 3, 2011 · It's been nearly two weeks, and the FBI has still not charged anyone with the murder of U.S. Border Patrol agent Brian Terry. However, some details are beginning to emerge. From Fronteras: The Changing America Desk, Michel Marizco reports.


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