Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, Jan. 6, 2025:
Polar vortex hits Texas: What to expect
As the polar vortex grips Texas, cold weather is sweeping across the state. Which areas are feeling the brunt of the freeze? And is there a risk of winter precipitation turning into dangerous ice?
Eric Berger, meteorologist and senior space editor at Ars Technica, joins the Standard with the latest updates.
John Whitmire’s first year as Houston mayor
It’s been a year since John Whitmire transitioned from dean of the Texas Senate to Houston’s mayoral office. The past 12 months have brought natural disasters, a police scandal and a budget deficit. What has he accomplished so far?
Abby Church, City Hall reporter for the Houston Chronicle, breaks it all down.
‘This act has no place in Islam’: Houston Muslims worry about Islamophobia after New Orleans attack
In the wake of the New Orleans truck attack and the revelation that the driver lived in Houston and had pledged allegiance to the terrorist group ISIS, some Muslim residents worry about the impact this will have on their community.
The Texas Newsroom’s Stella M. Chávez spoke with attendees at Houston’s Medical Center Islamic Society.
Energy prices rise as temperatures fall
Cold weather has Texans thinking about energy. Natural gas prices are climbing as expected — but why are oil prices also rising?
Kpler energy analyst Matt Smith joins the Standard to explain how this cold snap and winter season are affecting markets and consumer costs.
Texas population keeps growing
Texas is booming — again. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that in 2024, Texas gained over half a million new residents, more than any other state.
What’s fueling this growth, and what does it mean for the future? Texas State Demographer Lloyd Potter digs into the data.
Antone’s: 50 years of the blues
Antone’s has been a cornerstone of Texas blues for five decades, hosting acts from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Gary Clark Jr.
As the iconic Austin venue celebrates its 50th anniversary, co-owner Will Bridges and booker Zach Ernst join the Standard to reflect on its legacy and what’s next.
Mental health in the Houston Fire Department
After a challenging year responding to Hurricane Beryl and navigating a new union contract, the Houston Fire Department is focusing on mental health. Following the recent loss of a firefighter, the department is working to strengthen resources for its team. Houston Public Media’s Colleen DeGuzman reports.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
