Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
ERCOT warns of possible grid risks amid winter freeze fears
Texas could face severe winter conditions that may strain the electric grid, according to ERCOT. While another Winter Storm Uri is unlikely, ERCOT estimates a 50% chance of outages in January under extreme cold. If conditions rival the 2021 freeze, that risk jumps to 80%.
KUT energy and environment reporter Mose Buchele joins the Standard to explain.
Texas House speaker race tests partisan divides
In a state once known for bipartisanship, cooperation has become a rarity, especially among Texas Republicans. House Speaker Dade Phelan, criticized by his party for working with Democrats, opted out of a contentious fight to keep his gavel. But if not Phelan, then who?
For more on the battle for House speaker, the Standard’s joined by Blaise Gainey of The Texas Newsroom.
No recourse for East Texas family after routine procedure ends tragically
In 2021, Kimberly Ray underwent a routine rhizotomy to address lingering back pain. But under general anesthesia, she stopped breathing and never regained consciousness.
Laura Beil recounts Ray’s story in a Texas Monthly investigation that raises questions about medical risks and accountability.
Big Bend seeks artists to capture park’s rugged beauty
Calling all creatives: Big Bend National Park is accepting applications for its artist-in-residence program. Participants live and work in the park, creating art inspired by its landscape while assisting with outreach efforts.
Tom VandenBerg, chief of Interpretation & Visitor Services at Big Bend, shares how to apply.
Zelma Watson George: an East Texas star on the world stage
This Week in Texas Music History, we celebrate Zelma Watson George, an opera singer and civic leader from East Texas who became an ambassador and left a lasting legacy.
Jason Mellard from The Center for Texas Music History at Texas State University tells her story.
Mando Rayo’s chilly weather comfort food favorites
As Texas temperatures drop, it’s time for cozy scarves and warm dishes. Taco journalist Mando Rayo, host of The Tacos of Texas podcast, shares his favorite go-to soups and hearty meals perfect for the season.
The enduring culture of Texas lowriders
Texas lowriders are more than custom cars with sleek paint jobs, metal flake and pinstripes. Since the 1940s, they’ve been rolling celebrations of Mexican-American heritage, family and community, with clubs and events that embody a distinctly Texan legacy.
Emiliano Tahui Gomez of the Austin American-Statesman explores the history and culture of Austin’s original lowriders.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
