Don’t sweat – here are our top 10 favorite summer stories from the past decade

Texas Standard is celebrating 10 years on the air this year in a variety of ways. One way has us looking back on all our work from this past decade.

Every month we’re sharing a themed top 10 list where we’ll go over some of our favorite segments of years past.

May still technically is a spring month, but it certainly can already feel like summer in these parts (especially this year) – and what better way to get ready for the season in earnest than by sharing some of our favorite stories concerning summer activities, safety and celebrations?

10. Find a kitten? Why taking it to a shelter should be your last resort.

Kitten season is a thing, and summer is smack dab in the middle of it. We chatted with animal welfare experts about the best options for helping any kittens you come across during this season where there appears to be a surge in their births.

Atlantic Deer Cowrie seashells. Courtesy of Wes Tunnell from Encyclopedia of Texas Seashells (TAMU Press 2010)

9. How to shore up your shell collection

In the summer, many Texas families head to the beach for some swimming, fishing and, of course, seashell hunting. Here’s a breakdown of the many unique shells that can be found on Texas shores, and the best spots to find them.

8. Raspas, mangonadas and agua frescas are just a few delicious ways to keep cool in Texas

Sure, popsicles and ice cream can be satisfying, but what if you add tajín or chamoy and crank up the heat on your frozen treat? Tacos of Texas host Mando Rayo joined us to break down some of his favorite chilled treats to indulge in during these sweltering months.

7. How to keep your garden going during a drought

Heat waves of the record-setting variety are seemingly becoming more frequent every summer – which can pose risks for people, pets and, yes, plants. We’ve got some tips on how you might keep that garden going until the next rainy respite.

6. How to keep your pets cool during the dog days of summer

Well, we gave you those tips for plants – now here’s some for the pets. We spoke with an expert about the best ways we can keep our furry friends safe during the dog days of summer.

5. Why you should consider an LCRA park for your next outdoor adventure

Whether it’s for camping or glamping, Texas parks get a lot of love during the summer. But while state parks get a lot of the attention, one writer we spoke with highlighted a lesser-known, and perhaps less-crowded, option for those wanting to get away for the summer.

4. Understanding the ‘forgotten child syndrome’ of leaving kids in hot cars – and how to prevent it

It’s a tragedy no one ever wants to get news of – least of all happen to them. One expert spoke with us about the underlying psychology that leads to kids being left in hot cars, as well as the ways it can be prevented.

3. Laredo’s first Olympian going for gold in Paris

Perhaps one of the most anticipated events of the season occur every four years: the Summer Olympics. And Texas is often well-represented at the games, as in 2024 with 21-year-old boxer Jennifer Lozano. The Laredo native captivated us with her tale of grit in the face of bullying to make it to the world’s largest stage for sport.

2. What are your Texas summer songs? Here are a few of ours.

Through the years, summer has been romanced by music with considerably more staying power than the season itself. Here’s a few of our favorite summer tunes by Texas musicians.

1. Attendees reflect on Juneteenth during jubilee at Austin’s Willie Mae Kirk Library

Juneteenth is among the most notable of Texas-born holidays, marking the day when the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation was read in the state, announcing the end of the American Civil War and slavery. The Texas Standard’s Sean Saldana sat in to see how one particular Austin library observes the holiday.

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