Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025:
Bird flu outbreak grows, while federal agencies stay silent
When bird flu first struck dairy cattle in Texas last year, it was unclear how the virus might spread. As of now, H5 N1 has infected more than 900 herds and dozens of people, killing one person. While experts say a human pandemic isn’t inevitable, recent developments suggest it’s no longer a remote possibility; meanwhile, the Trump administration has ordered federal health agencies to pause public communications.
Joining us to break it down is Dr. Catherine Troisi, a professor of epidemiology at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health.
A little extra protein? How to identify and get rid of this common pantry pest
Wizzie Brown is a program specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and our go-to insect expert. Today, she introduces us to the Indianmeal Moth.
Dallas’ public transit agency faces financial fight
The future of Dallas Area Rapid Transit is uncertain, as debates over its sales tax funding have pitted agency leaders against the cities they serve. Now, after nearly a year of tension, the fight may be headed to the Texas Legislature. KERA News’ Pablo Arauz Peña reports.
China’s AI breakthrough panics Silicon Valley
The latest AI disruptor isn’t a high-profile U.S. project. Instead, it’s DeepSeek, a Chinese-developed language model that’s shot to the top of Apple and Google app charts. Some in Silicon Valley see it as an existential threat – a “Sputnik moment” for U.S. AI.
What do AI users need to know, and why is it causing so much concern? Tech expert Omar Gallaga joins us with insights.
Jacob’s Well likely closed to swimmers again
Despite recent rains, the famous Wimberley swimming hole Jacob’s Well is unlikely to reopen for swimming this year. KUT News’ Maya Fawaz has the latest on why:
Texas secures land for a new state park
Texas outdoor lovers will soon have a new place to explore. The state has finalized the purchase of a 2,000-acre tract along the Colorado River in Burnet County, next to Colorado Bend State Park.
What can visitors expect? Todd McClanahan, chief of programs for Texas State Parks, joins with the details.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lays out legislative priorities
With just days until Gov. Greg Abbott’s State of the State address, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has announced the first 25 of 40 priority bills for the Texas Senate.
What’s on the list? Alex Driggars, who covers the Texas Capitol for the Austin American-Statesman, joins the show with more:
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
