Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, July 24, 2025. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Lawmakers probe lack of Hill Country warning system
Lawmakers are probing why a flood alert system wasn’t in place before the deadly July 4th floods. Yesterday, the spotlight fell on the Upper Guadalupe River Authority, which said it sought funding for years but didn’t move forward due to low state support.
Could lives have been saved? Nina Satija, investigative reporter at the Houston Chronicle, joins the Standard with more.
What lawmakers learned from flood survivors
Lawmakers also heard emotional testimony related to the July 4th floods yesterday and raised additional concerns about local emergency preparedness.
Emily Foxhall, climate reporter at The Texas Tribune, joins the Standard with a recap:
This botánica is a staple of East Austin, but it was once the neighborhood grocery store
John Cazares Jr. grew up working in the Green & White Grocery as a teenager. He never imagined becoming the full-time owner.
Los Topos: Mexican rescue team aids Texas flood victims
A volunteer rescue group from Mexico, Los Topos, joined flood recovery efforts in Central Texas. Their mission transcends borders and politics.
Mando Rayo, host of the Tacos of Texas podcast, joins the Standard with more.
ADA turns 35: What true inclusion looks like
As the Americans with Disabilities Act marks 35 years, advocates say we need to go beyond “accessibility” to build truly inclusive spaces – especially in disaster planning.
Pat Prior Sorrells of Camp For All and Jamie Paul Weiner of Alexander JFS join the Standard with more.
UTEP’s Kayla Thornton makes history
From a Miner to a Valkyrie – that’s the trajectory of Kayla Thornton, who made history this weekend as the first undrafted player to appear in a WNBA All-Star Game. She dropped a double-double in her debut, but fans might not know she got her start at UTEP.
Keitha Adams, her former coach, joins the Standard with more.
