Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, March 28, 2025:
State health cuts target infectious disease funding amid measles outbreak
The Texas Department of State Health Services is facing major funding cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency, which plans to slash nearly $1 billion from federal grants meant to fight infectious diseases. The move comes as Texas grapples with a measles outbreak that has already infected more than 335 this year.
Brad Burt of Texas Tech Public Media in Lubbock joins us with more.
Remembering Carole Keeton Strayhorn, a trailblazing Texas leader
Carole Keeton Strayhorn, the first woman to serve as Texas Comptroller and Austin’s first female mayor, has died at 85. Known for her fierce independence and bold leadership, she left a lasting mark on Texas politics.
Mark Rose, a former Austin City Council member and longtime colleague, reflects on her legacy.
Dallas mayor’s GOP group raises big money – but where is it going?
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson’s Republican Mayors Association has raised over half a million dollars to elect more GOP candidates locally. But financial reports show little of that money has gone directly to campaigns.
KERA’s Nathan Collins investigates where the funds are actually being spent.
Women push back against menstruation stigma during Ramadan
Muslim women are speaking out about the stigma surrounding menstruation during Ramadan, when they are exempt from fasting while on their periods. Some say the shame runs deep, but efforts are growing to challenge these outdated taboos.
KERA’s Olla Mokhtar reports from North Texas.
Austin restaurant Canje finds creative ways to keep food fresh and affordable
As food costs soar, Austin’s Afro-Caribbean restaurant Canje is partnering with farm-to-table suppliers to keep ingredients fresh and prices in check. Executive sous chef Erik Trotman says sustainability is key to balancing quality and affordability.
He joins us to share how they’re making it work.
Austin comedian Avery Moore shares her journey ahead of Moontower festival
San Antonio-born, Austin-based comedian Avery Moore has been making audiences laugh for years, earning national recognition along the way. As she prepares for her 10th Moontower Comedy Festival, she shares insights on her career, comedy and the Texas scene.
New Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington highlights stories of sacrifice
The National Medal of Honor Museum opened this week in Arlington, offering an in-depth look at the history of the prestigious military award. Organizers hope the museum will not only honor recipients but also inspire future generations. KERA’s James Hartley reports.
The gang delivers another custom poem. Reach out to Texas Standard with your topic suggestions!
The Texas Tribune’s Jasper Scherer joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics.
All this, plus the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
