Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022:
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) could be on the brink of collapse. A brief filed last week by 16 current and former DFPS employees claims the ongoing investigations of parents of transgender youth are resulting in widespread resignations, and that lack of adequate staff could hamper the department’s ability to operate. The Dallas Morning News’ Lauren McGaughy joins with more.
Some U.S. veterans are trying to help their Afghan allies escape. It’s a slow, frustrating process
Since the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan last year, some American veterans have been scrambling to help their Afghan allies escape the collapsing country. Though some have succeeded, most have not – and the stress has taken a toll on their health. TPR’s Carson Frame reports for the American Homefront Project.
The Battleship Texas docks in its new, temporary home
As we reported earlier this week, the Battleship Texas has taken trip. Yesterday, the U.S.S. Texas was hauled from a port outside Houston to a new home in Galveston, where extensive repairs will be made to the dreadnought. How did the trip go for the 112-year-old ship? The Standard’s Michael Marks fills us in.
Gamer graphics cards are super affordable right now
Heard of Moore’s Law? It’s the adage from Intel co-founder Gordon Moore that the number of transistors in a circuit doubles every two years. It’s proven relatively accurate – and now, computer gamers are reaping the benefit of increasingly-advanced graphics cards at affordable prices. Our tech expert Omar Gallaga renders his opinion on this new generation of cheaper graphics cards.
Study: Houston’s end to cash bail didn’t compromise public safety
Five years ago, Houston ended the practice of cash bail for people accused of minor crimes. The practice has been attacked from the right, but a new study says it’s working, leading to fewer crimes and less-crowded jails. Study author and University of Pennsylvania professor Paul Heaton joins us with the findings today.
Beyoncé, Lizzo and the conversation about ableism
New songs from Beyoncé and Lizzo included a slur against people with physical disabilities. Both artists quickly responded, changing the offensive lyric. In the Texas Observer, writer Craig Lindsey says that controversy has the potential to elevate the conversation about ableism.
Southern Dallas apartment complex residents grapple with bug infestations, faulty electrical outlets
Residents of the Arterra Apartments in southern Dallas say they live with holes in their floors and walls, dangerous electrical problems and bug infestations. The City of Dallas says it is investigating. KERA’s Alejandra Martinez has more.
All this, plus the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
