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A single-vehicle crash in La Vernia has resulted in the death of a La Vernia teenager. According to the La Vernia Police Department, a 2015 Lexus RX3 was traveling northbound on U.S. 87 around 3:50 a.m. Sunday morning, Aug. 2. For reasons unknown, the vehicle left the roadway, rolled over, and crashed into the brick “Welcome to La Vernia” sign at U.S. 87 and Chihuahua Street. The vehicle caught fire. Members of the La Vernia Police Department, Wilson County District 1 Fire & Rescue, and Wilson County District 3 EMS, along with the Texas Department of... Article Link
Peter A. Leach was sentenced July 30 to 13 years in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility. The 81st District Court sentenced Leach, a former Stockdale Independent School District teacher, to 13 years in prison on charges of improper relationship between an educator and student and indecency with a child by contact, and 10 years on charges of child grooming and tampering with evidence. Leach, 36, will serve his sentences concurrently. Look for more information about the sentencing in the Aug. 5 Wilson County News. reader@wcn-online.com Article Link
Tara Perry grew up in Texas with her father out of the picture, raised by her mother and grandparents in a family where functioning addiction was just part of daily life — which is how she first got exposed to meth as a teenager and started using at just 13 years old. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, she shares how she dropped out of school in ninth grade, had her first child at 16, spent six months in state prison before a five year sentence in the Texas Department of Corrections before she was even 20 years old, and stayed hooked on meth from age 13 all the way to 26 — always managing to get sober inside jail or prison before the cycle started again on the outside. She opens up about eventually starting to sell meth, getting connected to a major organization, having multiple children while in and out of addiction, and what happened when someone close to her snitched and the DEA came knocking. She was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison — and spent seven of those years inside a Texas federal facility before Donald Trump pardoned her on the last day of his first term. _____________________________________________ #prison #addictionrecovery #truecrimecommunity _____________________________________________ Connect with Tara Perry: https://www.instagram.com/princesstara.3313/ _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Early Life 03:50 Childhood, Family & Identity 09:50 First Exposure to Drugs 16:00 Teenage Drug Use & Relationships 23:00 First Criminal Charges & Jail Experience 31:30 Life After First Incarceration 39:00 Motherhood and Continued Addiction 47:00 Second Prison Sentence & Having a Baby in Jail 55:30 Release, Relapse, and Escalating Drug Trade 01:03:30 DEA Bust and Facing Federal Charges 01:10:00 Sentencing and Time in Federal Prison 01:18:00 Life, Change, and Purpose in Prison 01:29:00 Clemency and Life After Prison 01:36:00 Growth, Healing, and Closing Reflections _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka
Send us Fan Mail⚠️ Viewer discretion advised: This episode contains strong language and candid adult conversation.According to the 2026 agent-production chart referenced during this episode, approximately 84% of NAR-registered agents had closed zero transactions between January 1 and July 6, 2026, while approximately 97% had closed four transactions or fewer.So what is actually happening inside the real estate industry?In this unfiltered episode of RealEstateAF, Mark Jones sits down with three experienced San Antonio real estate brokers: Jeff Garza, Robert Saenz and Cesar Amezcua.The panel breaks down why so many agents are struggling, whether real estate has been incorrectly marketed as a side hustle and why simply changing brokerages rarely fixes the real problem.They also get brutally honest about:• Whether real estate licensing standards adequately protect consumers• Why experience and fiduciary responsibility still matter• Massive builder commissions and new-construction incentives• Finding the actual cash value of a new home• Why so many real estate contracts are falling apart• Performative social-media success and “I just capped” posts• The temporary excitement of changing brokerages• What real rainmaker activity actually looks like• Whether struggling agents are surrounded by the wrong people• When becoming a dual-licensed Realtor and loan officer makes sense• Better ways agents can create additional sources of income• Social-media boundaries, lead verification and agent safetyThis is not an attack on struggling agents. It is an honest conversation about the difference between holding a real estate license and building a sustainable professional real estate business.Statistics discussed in this episode are based on a chart displayed and referenced by the panel. RealEstateAF has not independently audited the underlying dataset.━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━TODAY'S GUESTSJeff GarzaCEO and Broker, Redbird Realtyhttps://redbird-realty.com/Robert SaenzBroker, Xsellence Realtyhttps://www.xsellencerealtysa.com/Cesar AmezcuaOwner and Sponsoring Broker, CA & Company, REALTORS®https://cacompanyrealtors.com/━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━CHAPTERS00:00 – Cold Open: Get Better Every Day00:32 – Introducing Jeff Garza, Robert Saenz and Cesar Amezcua02:46 – The 2026 Agent Chart: 84% Closed Zero Transactions08:00 – Real Estate Licensing Standards and Consumer Protection12:25 – Builder Incentives, New Construction and Fiduciary Duty24:37 – Failed Contracts and Performative Social-Media Success31:00 – Brokerage Hopping and the 60-Day Honeymoon50:26 – What Real Rainmakers Actually Do1:00:26 – The 84%, Top Producers and Dual Licensing1:16:45 – Agent Safety, Social-Media Boundaries and Final Takeaways━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━POWERED BY LOANBOTRealEstateAF is powered by LoanBot — Smarter Mortgage Matching.Search LoanBot in the Apple App Store or Google Play.Affiliation disclosure: RealEstateAF host Mark Jones is a co-founder of and holds an ownership interest in LoanBot.LoanBot is an educational mortgage-matching and technology platform. It does not issue loan approvals, make underwriting decisions or provide a commitment to lend.━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━CONNECT WITH MARKConsidering buying, refinancing or developing a mortgage strategy?Visit:https://MortgageTalkWithMark.comMark JonesBranch Manager and Senior Loan OfficerNMLS #513437iTHINK Mortgage powered by Premier Mortgage Resources, LLCNMLS #116924123 Boerne Stage Road, Suite 103San Antonio, Texas 78255Equal Housing Opportunity━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━CHANNEL AND PODCAST DISCLOSUREThe information presented in this podcast is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial, investment, real estate, accounting or individualized mortgage advice.Guests appear for informational and discussion purposes and speak on their own behalf. Their statements, opinions and experiences do not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of Mark Jones, RealEstateAF, iTHINK Mortgage, Premier Mortgage Resources, LLC, LoanBot or any affiliated organization.No compensation is paid or received in exchange for referrals, endorsements or podcast appearances. Nothing discussed during this episode should be interpreted as an agreement to refer settlement-service business or as a requirement to use any particular real estate broker, lender, title company, insurance company or other service provider.Mark Jones is a licensed mortgage loan originator. This content does not constitute an offer to extend credit or a commitment to lend. All loan programs, interest rates, terms, qualifying requirements and product availability are subject to change without notice. All financing is subject to application, credit review, property approval, underwriting approval and applicable investor or agency guidelines. Not all applicants will qualify, and not all products are available in every state.Mortgage examples discussed during the podcast may be hypothetical and may not reflect current interest rates, loan costs, property conditions or an individual borrower's eligibility.Premier Mortgage Resources, LLC is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of the United States government, HUD, FHA, VA, USDA or any other governmental agency.Mark Jones | NMLS #513437Premier Mortgage Resources, LLC | NMLS #1169Equal Housing OpportunityNMLS Consumer Access:https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━TEXAS CONSUMER NOTICEConsumers wishing to file a complaint against a mortgage banker or a licensed mortgage banker residential mortgage loan originator should complete and submit a complaint form to the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending.Complaint forms and instructions may be obtained from the Department's website at:https://www.sml.texas.gov/A toll-free consumer hotline is available at 1-877-276-5550.The Department maintains a recovery fund to make payments of certain actual out-of-pocket damages sustained by borrowers caused by acts of licensed residential mortgage loan originators. A written application for reimbursement from the recovery fund must be filed with and investigated by the Department before payment of a claim. Additional information about the recovery fund is available through the Department's website.━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values
What does it mean to love your country? Is that nationalism? And isn't nationalism—you know—bad? And how should our allegiance and love of country be weighed against our duties and affections to family and faith? Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis is joined by John Wilsey to discuss his latest book, God and Country: Upholding Faith, History, and National Identity, the origins of nationalism and how it differs from patriotism, the link between history and love of ones country, the battles between the Romantics and Rationalists, and that great public servant, the freak show John Quincy Adams. About John Wilsey From the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Dr. John Wilsey is Professor of Church History and Philosophy and Chair of the Department of Church History and Historical Theology. Prior to coming to Southern, Wilsey taught elementary, middle, and high school students in history and Bible for eleven years in North Carolina and Virginia. He also has served Southern Baptist churches, as an associate pastor in Charlottesville, Virginia for eight years and interim pastor for three years in Spring, Texas. Between 2011 and 2017, he taught history and philosophy at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, with most of his teaching load in a fully accredited baccalaureate program in a maximum-security unit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Dr. Wilsey's primary areas of teaching at Southern Seminary and Boyce College are in modern church history, history of Western thought, and American history. He supervises PhD dissertations in the areas of American church history and history of philosophy. In addition to his work at Southern Seminary and Boyce College, Wilsey has held several fellowships, including with the McConnell Center at the University of Louisville as non-resident fellow (2023-2024); the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty as Affiliate Scholar (2016-2020); the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal as Wilbur Fellow (2023); and the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions in the Politics Department at Princeton University as William E. Simon Fellow in Religion and Public Life (2017-2018). He currently holds fellowships at the Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy as Senior Fellow, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention as Research Fellow, and the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary as Research Fellow. Wilsey's academic works have been reviewed in outlets such as National Review, Publisher's Weekly, Journal of Church and State, Fides et Historia, Providence, Church History, Reading Religion, Catholic Books Review, Reviews in American History, Anxious Bench, Claremont Review of Books, First Things, The American Conservative, Christianity Today, and The Federalist. He has appeared on podcasts and programs hosted by the Acton Institute, New Books Network, Current, Thinking in Public, Law and Liberty, the City of Man Podcast, Christ Over All, the Museum of the Bible, the Family Research Council, BBC Radio Wales, 9Marks, the McConnell Center, the Commonwealth Policy Center, and Ben Franklin's World. Wilsey has produced peer-reviewed pieces in the journal Religions and in academic books published by Palgrave and Routledge. He has contributed other chapters to books published by Crossway and B&H Academic as well as long-form articles to Modern Age: A Conservative Review and Fides et Historia. He has served as manuscript reviewer for American Political Thought, Religions, InterVarsity Press, and New York University Press. He has also served as book review editor for H-AmRel of the H-Net: Humanities and Social Sciences Online network and The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology. Wilsey has served on the Ciceronian Society Advisory Board, the Kern Foundation Advisory Council, the Board of Directors of the Society for Values in Higher Education, the Scholar's Council for the Center for the Electoral College, the Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives Advisory Board, and the Annual Meeting Proposal Review Board for Church History as well as the Membership Committee of the Evangelical Theological Society. In 2020, Wilsey was named Tutor of the Year in Boyce College's Augustine Honors Collegium. He has addressed students, faculty, and public audiences as an invited lecturer at Princeton University, Princeton Theological Seminary, the University of Notre Dame, the University of Louisville, the Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, Waynesburg University, Calvin University, St. Francis University, Hannibal-LaGrange University, Charleston Southern University, Grand Valley State University, the College of Biblical Studies, Houston Baptist University, Northwest Nazarene University, the University of Wyoming, Samford University, Spring Arbor University, Ave Maria University, the Philos Project, the Religious Freedom Institute, the Russell Kirk Center, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, and the Kentucky Historical Association. Over the years, Wilsey has remained active with academic societies, reading papers at meetings of the Evangelical Theological Society, the Conference on Faith and History, the Society of Historians of American Foreign Relations, the Christian Scholars' Conference, the Society for Values in Higher Education, the Society for US Intellectual History, the African American Intellectual History Society, the Ciceronian Society, the Association for the Scientific Study of Religion, and the Center for Christian Study in Charlottesville, Virginia. He is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society, the Ciceronian Society, the Society of Historians of American Foreign Relations, the Philadelphia Society, and the James Madison Society. Wilsey is a columnist for World Opinions, and his other public writings have appeared in outlets such as Law and Liberty, Current, Modern Reformation, Acton's Commentary, Christianity Today, Providence, Public Discourse, 9Marks Journal, The Gospel Coalition, Aeon, History News Network, The American Conservative, The Imaginative Conservative, Anxious Bench, Religion and Liberty, and Religion in American History. He has reviewed numerous books for outlets such as Themelios, Southeastern Theological Review, Public Discourse, Fides et Historia, Westminster Theological Journal, Trinity Journal, The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, Journal of Church and State, Evangelical Quarterly, Journal of Markets and Morality, Religion and Liberty, Journal of Spiritual Formation and Soul Care, H-Diplo, Ad Fontes, and The London Lyceum. Wilsey is married to Mandy, his wife of twenty-seven years, and they have two children. He is an elder at Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky.
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor Plus. In this special two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Clay Lacey of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Harald Brink of the Dutch National Police to explore the 25-plus-year legacy of Jack Schonely's tactical training. From individual officer safety to agency-wide operations, Jack's framework for apprehending fleeing suspects has become a global standard for pilots, tactical flight officers, and K-9 handlers alike. In this episode, the group reflects on the leadership and shared experiences that have shaped law enforcement tactics across the U.S. and Europe. Harald provides a global perspective and previews his upcoming course on locating missing persons, while Clay shares hard-earned insights on the humility required to mentor the next generation. The conversation also explores what it takes to become an effective instructor, focusing on authenticity over ego. Finally, the group looks ahead to the ECHO 2026 Public Safety Aviation Conference in Philadelphia. If you're committed to tactical training, instructor development, and the future of public safety aviation, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics, Metro Aviation and SHOTOVER.
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Valor Plus. In this special two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Clay Lacey of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Harald Brink of the Dutch National Police to explore the 25-plus-year legacy of Jack Schonely's tactical training. From individual officer safety to agency-wide operations, Jack's framework for apprehending fleeing suspects has become a global standard for pilots, tactical flight officers, and K-9 handlers alike. In this episode, the group reflects on the leadership and shared experiences that have shaped law enforcement tactics across the U.S. and Europe. Harald provides a global perspective and previews his upcoming course on locating missing persons, while Clay shares hard-earned insights on the humility required to mentor the next generation. The conversation also explores what it takes to become an effective instructor, focusing on authenticity over ego. Finally, the group looks ahead to the ECHO 2026 Public Safety Aviation Conference in Philadelphia. If you're committed to tactical training, instructor development, and the future of public safety aviation, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, CNC Technologies and Precision Aviation Group.
Preliminary data indicates Texas home insurers earned a 22 percent profit on premiums collected last year, according to the Houston Chronicle. It was the best year insurers have had in two decades and follows several years of double-digit rate increases and flat or slightly negative returns for insurers due to increased natural disasters. Insurance rates increased statewide by an average of 4.3 percent last year, according to the Texas Department of Insurance, which was significantly lower than the rate increases of preceding years. Homeowners were still paying about 80 percent more for home insurance in 2025 than they paid in... Article Link
The cause of a Sunday-morning crash on S.H. 97 in Wilson County that killed a Luling man remains under investigation. According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol Sgt. Orlando De Luna Jr., the crash occurred at approximately 3 a.m. July 12, on S.H.97 near mile marker 558 in eastern Wilson County. According to the preliminary investigation, Kristopher Colby Adam Alfaro, 20, of Luling, was traveling west on S.H. 97 in a 1999 Ford Taurus. For an unknown reason, the vehicle veered into the oncoming lane; the driver overcorrected, lost control, and rolled over. Alfaro, the sole occupant... Article Link
A crash June 25 that killed four people on U.S. 181 in Karnes County was caused by a driver being “fatigued or asleep,” according to the final crash report filed with the Texas Department of Transportation. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol responded to the crash that Thursday morning, which occurred at approximately 8 a.m. Fernando Espinoza, 23, was the driver of a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling north on U.S. 181 near Hobson Road. The report indicates that, due to being asleep or fatigued, he lost control of the vehicle, veered into the oncoming lane, and... Article Link
Today's guest is Jaeson Jones. He is a retired Captain from the Texas Department of Public Safety's Intelligence and Counterterrorism Division, and a recognized expert of Mexican drug cartels and transnational crime. He is also a correspondent for Newsmax. Borderland: Narcosis is an IRONCLAD Original Chapters (00:00) Intro (02:33) Landing the Interview with Secretary Omar Harfuch (05:58) Inside the Operation That Killed El Mencho (09:27) The Shift From Cartel Bosses to "The Company" (12:54) Why Cartel Figures Are Turning Themselves In (16:47) Current Border Conditions in Roma, Texas (21:15) Meth Trafficking Ties to Sinaloa Factions (28:41) Cartel Infiltration of Oil and Mining in Texas (35:02) "It's Over": Jones' Prediction on Cartel Collapse (40:06) What's Next for Jaeson Jones Sponsors: 1st Phorm: Go to https://www.1stphorm.com/borderland and get free shipping on any orders over $75, free 30 days in the app for new customers, and 110% money back guarantee on all of our products. Kubota Tractor Corporation: https://www.youtube.com/user/Kubotatractorcorp Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/borderland-narcosis-with-vincent-rocco-vargas/id1730589324 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6w9YAIljxWKXsetl10w9Qp?si=8a5eb53e12b74e3a Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The City of Austin has completed a recent order from Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Department of Transportation directing cities to remove political street art, a violent weekend in Austin has police investigating multiple deadly shootings and President Trump held a press conference for the formal launch of Trump Accounts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's episode of the Book Fair Podcast covers the new Texas Department of Education's reading list for public schools, as well as local groups helping bring access to banned books in their community. The episode also features a review of the newest books out this week.New Releases:The Big One by Dashka Slater, illus. by Myo Yim (Ages 4-8)*Through the Black Gate by Alfredo Cáceresn (Ages 8-12)For the Greatest Good by Blair Hanson (Ages 14+)*Debut authorTakeawaysBanned books access initiativesControversy over Texas reading listChapters00:00 New Books of the Week07:01 Texas Department of Education's Reading List Controversy
This week's episode of the Book Fair Podcast covers the new Texas Department of Education's reading list for public schools, as well as local groups helping bring access to banned books in their community. The episode also features a review of the newest books out this week.New Releases:The Big One by Dashka Slater, illus. by Myo Yim (Ages 4-8)*Through the Black Gate by Alfredo Cáceresn (Ages 8-12)For the Greatest Good by Blair Hanson (Ages 14+)*Debut authorTakeawaysBanned books access initiativesControversy over Texas reading listChapters00:00 New Books of the Week07:01 Texas Department of Education's Reading List Controversy
A holiday road trip can flip from fun to dangerous in seconds, and that is why we wanted a real-world Fourth of July safety check from Texas Department of Public Safety. We finally reach a trooper out on the roads, talking enforcement, summer traffic, and what it looks like when Texas is packed with visitors and major-event crowds. We also hit a detail that sounds small but gets people in trouble fast: extreme heat and dehydration, especially when you are driving long stretches or spending hours outside before you ever get behind the wheel. Then the conversation takes a heavier turn. We wrestle with the question families dread: how do you know when someone is too old to drive? We talk cognitive decline, reaction time, and the emotional reality that a driver's license is more than permission to drive, it is freedom. We share personal stories about taking the keys, what happens when a parent forgets they no longer has a car, and how “don't drive” only works if you have a plan to replace independence with real support. We keep the car-lover energy going with our cruise-in and events calendar for the July 4 weekend, then dive into the week's automotive news. Tesla tops the Cars.com American-Made Index again, while EV representation shifts and hybrids stay competitive. We also unpack a California vehicle technology rule tied to preventing domestic violence tracking, which opens a wider debate about connected cars, location data, and whether drivers should get a true off switch. Finally, we look at how the AI boom is driving DRAM memory chip prices higher and reshaping the supply chain behind software-defined vehicles, infotainment, ADAS, and over-the-air updates. Subscribe for more straight talk on cars, share this with a friend who is driving for the holiday, and leave a review with your take: what is the fairest way to handle an aging driver in the family?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com
The following defendant was among those listed on recent dockets for the 81st District Court in Wilson County: •Jose Escobedo, 63, of Floresville pleaded nolo contendere (no contest) June 1 to a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, after an alleged incident in April 2023. He was sentenced to three years in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility and ordered to pay court costs and fees. Article Link
The Wilson County Sheriff's Office hosted its first-ever First Responder Dodgeball Tournament June 24, with challengers from the sheriff's office, Floresville Police Department, Wilson County Emergency Services Districts (ESD) 2, 4, and 5, Texas Department of Public Safety, Juvenile and Adult Probation departments, Karnes County Sheriff's Office, Wilson County Veterans, Gonzales County Fire Department, and DRR Towing. The event raised gifts and awareness for the Blue Santa Program, sponsored by the Wilson County Sheriff's Office and Floresville Police Department. Article Link
A two-vehicle crash on June 12 in which both drivers died was caused by a driver who was “fatigued or asleep” and drove the wrong way on U.S. 181 north of Floresville, according to the final crash report issued by the Texas Department of Transportation. According to the report, at approximately 9:20 a.m. that morning, Wayne Earl Christiansen, 53, was driving a 2006 Dodge Ram pickup truck, traveling north in the southbound lanes of U.S. 181; his vehicle collided head-on with a 2022 Ford Maverick driven by Daniel David Heinen III, 75. The two men, both of San Antonio, were... Article Link
A Poth woman is among four people killed in a crash on U.S. 181 in Karnes County. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol, a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling north on U.S. 181 near Hobson Road at approximately 8 a.m. June 27 when the driver lost control, veered into the oncoming lane, and collided with a 2015 Black Tahoe traveling south. April Marie Green, 40, a licensed vocational nurse of Poth, the driver and only occupant of the Tahoe, was pronounced deceased on the scene, said DPS Sgt. Orlando De Luna Jr. Also pronounced at... Article Link
In Part 3 of Tim's interview, he exposes the brutal reality of life inside the Texas prison system, including Texas death row, extreme heat with no air conditioning, alleged corruption, contraband cell phones, prison violence, and the inhumane conditions inmates face behind bars. Tim shares firsthand stories from his time in Texas prisons, including what it was like working on death row, seeing inmates receive execution dates, witnessing the emotional impact of executions, and hearing about wrongful convictions. He also breaks down how contraband gets into prison, how inmates survive scorching heat, how prison hustles work, and why he believes the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has gotten worse over time. This raw prison interview covers the hidden world of Texas prisons, death row inmates, prison politics, commissary hustles, staff corruption, segregation, gang dynamics, and the struggle to rebuild life after incarceration. If you're interested in true crime interviews, prison stories, death row documentaries, criminal justice reform, wrongful convictions, and real-life accounts from former inmates, subscribe for more long-form conversations. Topics Covered: -Texas prison system -Texas death row -Life on death row -No air conditioning in Texas prisons -Prison heat deaths -Contraband cell phones in prison -Prison corruption -Wrongful convictions -Executions in Texas -Prison violence and survival -Segregation and prison politics -Life after prison Go Support Tim! IG: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bykriminalkustoms/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Life on Death Row: Getting the Job 02:00 Prison Heat & Air Conditioning Issues 05:00 Extreme Heat and Health Dangers 09:00 Corruption & Water Shortages in Texas Prisons 12:00 Prison Profits: Commissary & Phone Costs 16:00 Contraband: Smuggling Phones & Drugs 21:00 Death Row: Execution of an Innocent Man 27:00 Death Row Life & Prison Economics 32:00 The Politics & Hustles of Death Row Jobs 38:00 Passing Socks, Stamps, and Prison Currency 44:00 Handling Food, Muslim Rules, and Corruption 48:00 Violence, Stabbings, & Prison Justice 54:00 Who Ends Up on Death Row vs. Life 01:00:00 Death Row Inmates: Psychopathy or Normalcy? 01:07:00 Segregation Units & Survival Stories 01:14:00 Harassment, Retaliation, and Violence 01:17:00 How Texas Prisons Have Gotten Worse 01:22:00 Final Thoughts: Broken Prison System & Reform Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The following defendants were among those listed on recent dockets for the 81st District Court in Wilson County: •Christopher W. Jonsson, 41, of La Vernia was originally sentenced in November 2023 to 10 years in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility, suspended to 10 years of community supervision, for two charges of arson from an alleged incident in September 2022. After a May 27 motion to revoke for violating probationary terms, he was sentenced to five years each in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility, to be served concurrently. •Chad M. Carpenter, 46, of Floresville pleaded guilty May... Article Link
A two-vehicle crash on U.S. 181 north of Floresville closed northbound lanes for a period of time, and sent four people to the hospital. According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol Staff Sgt. Orlando De Luna Jr., the accident occurred just after 4:30 p.m. June 10 at U.S. 181 and Creekpark Drive, between F.M. 775 and Loop 1604 north of Floresville DPS troopers and members of the Wilson County Sheriff's Office responded to the crash, along with first responders. The preliminary investigation indicated that a white 2020 Ford SUV failed to yield the right of way at... Article Link
Two men have died, following a two-vehicle crash June 12. The crash, on U.S. 181 north of Floresville near Shady Oak Court, not far from Las Lagunas Restaurant, occurred about 9:20 a.m. last Friday. According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol Sgt. Orlando De Luna Jr., the preliminary investigation indicated that a 2006 Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by Wayne Earl Christiansen, 53, was traveling north in the southbound lanes of U.S. 181 and collided head-on with a 2022 Ford Maverick driven by Daniel David Heinen III, 75. The two men, both of San Antonio, were pronounced... Article Link
USDA Under Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joins us from Kentucky to discuss record U.S. exports and trade opportunities and New World screwworm response. Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller provides an update on the situation with New World screwworm, including various ideas to eradicate it, and other potential challenges down the road. And Nancy Martinez, director of public policy, trade and biotechnology at NCGA, tells us about the Agricultural Coalition for USMCA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) makes sure insurance companies and agents follow state law. When they don't, the Fraud and Enforcement Division steps in to protect consumers, stop illegal activity, and help Texans get the money owed to them.Here are answers to common questions about how the division holds the insurance industry accountable in a fair and transparent way. How are insurance companies or agents punished if they do something wrong? The penalties depend on the severity of the offense: - For minor offenses: TDI may issue a warning letter, a suspension, or probation. - For serious offenses: TDI can permanently take away a license, issue administrative fines, and force the rule-breaker to pay back the people they harmed. What can cause an agent or company to lose their license? TDI can take away a license for serious misconduct, like an agent stealing client money or taking payments without actually setting up the insurance policy. Before anyone loses a license, a formal hearing is held so both sides can present their case. What kinds of criminal cases are referred to TDI's Fraud Unit for prosecution? TDI's Fraud Unit investigates insurance crimes and hands them over to local district attorneys for prosecution. Common examples include: - Agents stealing insurance premiums (the money consumers pay for coverage). - Individuals selling insurance without a license. In Texas, selling insurance illegally is a third-degree felony. How can the public see enforcement actions against a company or agent? Consumers can search for disciplinary actions from the past five years on TDI's website. For help finding a specific company or legal order, call TDI's Help Line at 800-252-3439. What's the role of TDI fraud investigators?How TDI's Help Line helps with insurance questions and complaintsTDI embeds prosecutors in DA offices to investigate insurance fraudForensic accounting and insurance fraud investigationsFraud Files: William "Doc" GallagherTDI analysts work behind the scenes to stop insurance fraudInsurance fraud investigations recover millions for TexansReport insurance fraud online00:00 How does TDI's Enforcement Division hold insurance companies and agents accountable? 00:30 How does TDI enforce the insurance code and protect consumers? 00:56 How does TDI find cases for the Enforcement Division to investigate? 01:26 What kinds of possible code violations does TDI Enforcement Division investigate? 03:36 What is the process of a TDI Enforcement Division investigation? 05:37 How does restitution and revocation work in an insurance code enforcement investigation? 09:03 What happens when a code enforcement investigation uncovers criminal activity? 09:42 Can you look up companies or agents that have been investigated by the TDI Enforcement Division? 10:10 How does the TDI Enforcement Division help Texans? 11:05 If you need to file a complaint or have an insurance code question, call 800-252-3439 or visit tdi.texas.gov
Cheer on your favorite local heroes during the First Responder Dodgeball Tournament on Wednesday, June 24, at 5 p.m. at the Floresville High School Competition Gym. Teams from the Wilson County Sheriff's Office, Floresville Police Department, Wilson County Emergency Services District 4, the Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol, and many more will compete for bragging rights and the title of the best of the best. The entry fee is one unused, unwrapped toy per person to support the Blue Santa Program, which provides gifts and other items to families in need during the holidays. Article Link
A two-vehicle accident on U.S. 87 in Stockdale has resulted in three people going to the hospital. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol troopers were dispatched shortly after 4 p.m. June 4 to the accident at the intersection of U.S. 87 and W. Main Street in Stockdale. In addition to DPS, crews from Wilson County District 3 EMS, District 1 Fire & Rescue, and the Wilson County Sheriff's Office responded to the crash. According to DPS Staff Sgt. Orlando De Luna Jr., preliminary information gathered indicated that a white 2000 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by an 80-year-old male, failed... Article Link
This week on Autonomy Markets, Grayson Brulte and Walter Piecyk discuss Waymo's widening lead, the Ojai (Chinese-made Zeekr robotaxi) rollout's political fault lines, and the new Texas autonomous vehicle and truck database.Waymo is actively preparing to deploy a fleet of Chinese-made Zeekrs across California and Arizona, now renamed Ojai, in blue and purple states, not a red state, at least not yet. Sticking to his original call that the Zeekr is an unforced error, Grayson lays out the emerging split where Jaguars head to red states and Zeekrs head to blue and purple ones.With Magna now producing roughly 250 vehicles a month, Waymo is on pace for 6,000 cars by year-end, and Walt argues the real unlock comes when the sensor stack gets cheaper and Waymo begins to add more than 1,000 new vehicles a month on the road.In Texas, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles launched the Automated Motor Vehicle Lookup, where any member of the public can look up the fleet size of any AV operator in the state along with any complaints that might be filed.Wrapping up the conversation, Grayson and Walt discussed the launch of Wayve Labs, Zoox getting an undeserved pass thanks to Amazon and BYD's willingness to compensate owners when God's Eye is engaged during an incident.Episode Chapters00:00 Waymo Deploys the Ojai06:40 Waymo Production Math08:55 Waymo's Expanding Lead15:15 Texas Automated Motor Vehicle Lookup25:00 Wayve Labs32:10 3,760 Miles Across Canada. No Interventions.36:15 Zoox Gets a Pass39:15 Foreign Autonomy Desk40:20 Next Week--------About The Road to AutonomyThe Road to Autonomy is the leading applied intelligence platform covering the convergence of automation, autonomy, and the Autonomy Economy.™.Through our podcasts, newsletter, and proprietary applied intelligence, we set the narrative for institutional investors, industry executives, and policymakers navigating the convergence of automation, autonomy, and economic growth.Join institutional investors and industry leaders who read This Week in The Autonomy Economy every Sunday. Each edition delivers exclusive insight and commentary on the autonomy economy, helping you stay ahead of what's next.Sign up for This Week in The Autonomy Economy newsletter: https://www.roadtoautonomy.com/ae/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ann sits down with former Texas Ranger Sergeant Matt Cawthon to discuss his decades-long career with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Highway Patrol and the Criminal Intelligence Division. Features musical performance by Logan Bynum.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today's episode of the Consumer Finance Monitor Podcast features a wide-ranging and timely discussion about one of the most consequential fair lending developments in years: the CFPB's final rule fundamentally reshaping enforcement under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and Regulation B. Hosted by Alan Kaplinsky (the Founder, Chair for 25 years and now Senior Counsel of the Consumer Financial Services Group at Ballard Spahr, LLP), the episode brings together an exceptional panel of fair lending authorities: our special guest Bradley Blower (the Principal and Founder of Inclusive-Partners LLC) along with John Culhane, Jr., and Richard Andreano, Jr., Senior Counsel in the Consumer Financial Services Group at Ballard Spahr LLP. The discussion revisits a proposal first examined on the podcast last year when the CFPB under Acting Director Russell Vought proposed sweeping revisions to ECOA enforcement principles (you can find more on that episode here). Now, the Bureau has finalized the rule largely as proposed, marking a dramatic shift in federal fair lending policy. The CFPB's Three Major Changes As discussed during the podcast, the final rule makes three major changes from the former Regulation B: · Eliminates the use of disparate impact analysis under ECOA and Regulation B. · Narrows discouragement liability by focusing primarily on spoken, written, or visual statements rather than broader conduct. · Revises the framework governing Special Purpose Credit Programs (SPCPs), particularly for for-profit lenders. The Bureau's stated rationale is that ECOA does not authorize disparate impact liability and that fair lending enforcement should focus on intentional discrimination rather than statistical disparities alone. Supporters of the rule argue that the changes provide lenders with clearer standards, reduce regulatory uncertainty, and create a more predictable environment for innovation, including AI-driven underwriting and algorithmic decision-making. Critics, however, contend that the rule ignores the historical role disparate impact analysis has played in uncovering systemic discrimination and could make it substantially more difficult to identify discriminatory outcomes embedded in facially neutral policies or automated systems. Disparate Impact: A Sea Change, But Not the End of Fair Lending The panel devoted significant attention to the CFPB's elimination of disparate impact liability under ECOA. John Culhane described the move as a "dramatic shift" for non-mortgage lending, noting that disparate impact theories historically drove many federal fair lending actions involving indirect auto finance, student lending, and other consumer credit products. At the same time, Rich Andreano emphasized that the mortgage industry remains subject to disparate impact claims under the federal Fair Housing Act because of the Supreme Court's decision in Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs v. Inclusive Communities Project. As a result, mortgage lenders still face substantial fair lending exposure notwithstanding the CFPB's new ECOA position. The panelists also stressed that disparate impact is far from dead at the state level. Several states, including Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York, are expected to continue aggressive fair lending enforcement using disparate impact theories under state statutes, regulations, and consumer protection laws. Indeed, the panel highlighted the growing role of state attorneys general and state regulators as federal enforcement narrows. Discouragement Liability and the "Townstone Effect" Another focal point of the discussion was the CFPB's narrowing of discouragement liability. The panel explored how the Bureau's revisions appear heavily influenced by the CFPB's controversial enforcement action against Townstone Financial, where the Bureau alleged that comments made during radio broadcasts and podcasts discouraged minority borrowers from applying for loans. Rich Andreano characterized the final rule's discouragement provisions as effectively "the Townstone rule," reflecting the current CFPB leadership's strong opposition to the prior Bureau's enforcement theory in that case. Nevertheless, both Brad Blower and John Culhane cautioned that courts and state regulators may continue to consider broader conduct, including branch placement, marketing strategies, and community engagement, when evaluating potential redlining or discouragement claims. SPCPs Face New Uncertainty The podcast also examined the CFPB's revisions to Special Purpose Credit Programs. Brad Blower explained that while SPCPs remain permissible, the new rule substantially complicates the use of race-conscious programs by for-profit lenders. Many institutions may now seek to redesign programs around race-neutral criteria such as first-generation homeownership, low- and moderate-income geographies, or majority-minority census tracts. Rich Andreano warned that many financial institutions, especially banks, may scale back SPCPs due to litigation and regulatory uncertainty, particularly given the broader political and legal environment surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The Practical Message: "Stay the Course" Despite the significance of the CFPB's rule changes, the clearest takeaway from the discussion was remarkably consistent: lenders should not dismantle their fair lending compliance programs. All three panelists emphasized that institutions should continue: · Monitoring for disparate impact. · Reviewing underwriting and pricing models. · Evaluating marketing and branch strategies. · Testing AI and algorithmic systems for bias. · Maintaining robust fair lending compliance management systems. As Brad Blower observed, institutions that "take their foot off the gas" risk state enforcement actions, private litigation, reputational harm, and future regulatory scrutiny under a different federal administration. Rich Andreano summarized the prevailing industry guidance succinctly: "Stay the course." AI, Algorithmic Underwriting, and Future Litigation The panel also explored how the rule intersects with AI-driven lending. Although federal ECOA disparate impact enforcement may narrow, the panelists noted that state laws and private litigation could continue targeting algorithmic discrimination. Several states already are pursuing or considering laws specifically addressing AI bias and automated decision-making. The panel further predicted that legal challenges to the CFPB's final rule are highly likely. Potential claims could include: · Administrative Procedure Act challenges. · Arguments that the CFPB disregarded congressional intent underlying ECOA. · Challenges arising under the Supreme Court's decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which eliminated Chevron deference to agency rules. The panel suggested that litigation over the final rule could ultimately reach the Supreme Court, particularly on the unresolved question of whether ECOA itself authorizes disparate impact liability. Conclusion This episode provides an exceptionally practical and nuanced examination of one of the most important fair lending developments in recent memory. While the CFPB has dramatically narrowed federal ECOA enforcement theories, the broader fair lending landscape remains highly active due to state enforcement, private litigation risk, the Fair Housing Act, and ongoing scrutiny of AI-based underwriting systems. For lenders, the message from the panel was unmistakable: despite the CFPB's final rule, fair lending compliance remains as important as ever. You can listen to the full podcast on the Consumer Finance Monitor Podcast available through Ballard Spahr and major podcast platforms. Consumer Finance Monitor is hosted by Alan Kaplinsky, Senior Counsel at Ballard Spahr, and the founder and former chair of the firm's Consumer Financial Services Group. We encourage listeners to subscribe to the podcast on their preferred platform for weekly insights into developments in the consumer finance industry.
This week we are honored to have guest speaker Freddie Anderson, the Director of Huntsville Institutional Ministry (HIM). He has served with this ministry since 1983. The HIM ministry is located in Huntsville, Texas and the mission there is to help each inmate, regardless of his past, aware of the gospel. This ministry is under the oversight of the Garland Street Church of Christ in Plainview, and is supported in part by Prestoncrest and Prestoncrest's Men's Prison Ministry Team (coordinated by Clay Short) that visits the men's prison in Huntsville each quarter to help lead worship, serve, and support Freddie. Freddie's background in prison ministry began as he received his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 1978 from LSU with a minor in Law Enforcement. He worked as a corrections officer in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. He earned his Master's in Criminology (1982) from Sam Houston State University. Freddie is married to Jessie and they have four adult children. He is sought after as a speaker for workshops, seminars, and gospel meetings. To find out more about Prestoncrest's Men's Prison Ministry team and the next visit coming up on June 7, email clayraider@yahoo.com.Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise
Grand Prairie canceled a private party for Muslims at a city-owned water park after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott threatened to pull hundreds of thousands of dollars in state funding. In other news, the Texas Department of Public Safety has proposed rule changes that would affect how Texans apply for and renew certain licenses, including handgun carry licenses; a rapid rise in the cost of living has left seniors on fixed incomes in a precarious position across the U.S.; and the University of Dallas men's basketball team said they are out $60,000 after a travel company filed for bankruptcy following a series of payments the team made for a trip to London. But a $30,000 donation from Mark Cuban on Wednesday may allow the trip to happen after all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Some of the stories on today's show include:-An ag economist at Purdue University says the continued conflict in Iran is causing concerns about rising fertilizer prices.-The commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture says the continued northern movement of New World screwworm leaves cattle producers vulnerable.-The owner of one of the largest sale barns in the country says he's concerned rising fuel prices are going to impact consumer buying habits. -The Trump administration's top ag trade official says the tariff policy has been a game changer for the industry. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Michael Severance was a decorated Air Force staff sergeant from Lee, Maine — a young man known for his integrity, his loyalty, and his love of dancing the Texas two-step. In January 2005, just months into a troubled marriage to a West Texas veterinarian named Wendi Davidson, Mike vanished without a trace. His truck, his wallet, and his cell phone were all left behind. For weeks, investigators chased dead ends while Mike's family in Maine waited desperately for answers.What they eventually found would shock everyone who had known him. What followed was a complex investigation, a bitter custody battle over Mike's infant son, and a legal case full of twists that left his family feeling that true justice was never fully served.Mike survived five combat deployments to some of the most dangerous places on earth. Evil found him in his own home.Today's snack: Queso dip from The Big Texas Cookbook (thanks Carla!)Listen to part 2 today: https://patreon.com/lovemarrykillSources:Fanning, Diane. A Poisoned Passion: A Young Mother, Her War Hero Husband, and the Marriage that Ended in Murder. St. Martin's Paperbacks, 2009Snapped, S27 E9, “What Happened to Michael Severance?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qny3AAilUI8 ABC 20/20, S44 E19, “Dead Man Talking”McCullagh, Declan. "Police Blotter: Murderer nabbed via tracking, Web search." CNET, 18 Mar. 2008, "SSGT MICHAEL SEVERANCE." Bangor Daily News, 25 Sept. 2008"Veterinarian sentenced to 25 years for husband's murder." American Veterinary Medical Association, 15 Nov. 2006"Inmate Information Details: DAVIDSON, WENDI MAE." Texas Department of Criminal Justice"Parole Review Information: DAVIDSON, WENDI MAE." Texas Department of Criminal JusticeWendi Mae Davidson v. Judy Kay Davidson and Robert Lloyd Davidson. No. 03-13-00522-CV. Texas Court of Appeals, Third District, at Austin, 20 May 2014. Justia Law, justia.com"Wendi Mae Davidson's first network prison interview: 20/20 ‘Dead Man Talking' Preview." YouTube, uploaded by ABC News
The fellas reconvene after a short hiatus. Highlights from today's conversation include: Good Friday/Easter Reflections Argentina and Broken Bones Cable moves upstairs Screwtape Chapter 15 (BANGER) Trump's Easter Tweet Muslims attack Texas Department of Education, Chisum dons his turban Biden Admin paid OnlyFans prostitutes for influence Pam Bondi ousted Jaden Ivy cut for his religious [...]
Memphis rapper Lontrell Williams Jr., known as Pooh Shiesty, is accused of orchestrating a plot targeting rap titan Gucci Mane and two other music figures in Dallas. In other news, the Dallas Stars banned an individual from American Airlines Center after an internal investigation into a group of fans performing what appeared to be a Nazi salute at a home game in December; daily North Texas commuters are familiar with the fluctuating prices on TEXpress lanes, courtesy of the Texas Department of Transportation's dynamic pricing structure; and Dallas has put its City Hall “call for concepts and ideas” online, with clearer guidance on what the city wants to see. Submissions are open through 2 p.m. May 3, with the city inviting residents, architects, planners, developers and community groups to take part.Submissions are open through 2 p.m. May 3, with the city inviting residents, architects, planners, developers and community groups to take part. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week's Friday News Round Up, Host Nikki DaVaughn and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec talk about new reporting that reveals just how closely Texas Department of Public Safety officers are working with immigration officers here in Austin. Plus, the city of Austin has removed mysterious downtown bench rails, and still nobody knows who installed them, and the new owners of The Hole in the Wall say, “The hole is going to thrive now,” with big intentions to highlight local music. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter. And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
In this episode of The Other Side of Campus, hosts Stephanie Seidel Holmsten and Jen Moon sit down with Francesca “Chessie” Lockhart, Program Lead of the Cybersecurity Clinic at UT Austin's Strauss Center for International Security and Law. Drawing on her experience in state-level intelligence at the Texas Department of Public Safety, Lockhart shares how her career in counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure protection led her back to the university — and how she's now helping shape the next generation of public-minded technologists and security strategists.At the heart of the conversation is the Cybersecurity Clinic itself: an innovative, hands-on two-semester program where students apply classroom learning directly in partnerships with nonprofits, small businesses, and local governments to address real cybersecurity challenges. Lockhart explains how this model transforms learning — moving beyond the lecture hall to cultivate technical skills, ethical responsibility, and a deep sense of public purpose.We also hear from Kareem Chavez-Escobedo, now a UT law student and a member of the clinic's inaugural cohort, who reflects on what it was like to work with real clients as an undergraduate. Her experience highlights how applied learning can build not only expertise, but confidence, agency, and a clearer sense of how students can contribute to the public good.Together, the episode explores broader questions about the role of higher education in an age of rapid technological change: What responsibilities do universities have in strengthening cybersecurity at the local and national level? How can experiential learning better prepare students to navigate complex, real-world problems? And what gives educators hope about the next generation stepping into these critical roles? As always, thanks for joining us on The Other Side of Campus.
A parasitic pest once eradicated from the United States is moving closer to the border and public health officials are paying close attention. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Shuford an ASTHO member and Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services discusses the growing threat posed by the New World Screwworm as cases spread north through Central America and Mexico. Dr. Shuford explains how Texas is preparing for a potential return of the parasite, an organism that primarily affects livestock but can also cause severe infections in humans. From clinician alerts and lab guidance to enhanced environmental surveillance, Texas is taking a proactive approach to detection and containment.
The local Republican Party's decision to revert Dallas County to precinct-based voting caused hundreds of voters to go to the wrong polling sites on Tuesday – but it also triggered a cascade of problems within county operations that further derailed voters. In other news, parents in Coppell ISD are demanding answers after ammunition was found on three separate occasions on a middle school campus; Attorney General Ken Paxton vowed to press forward with his GOP challenge to incumbent Sen. John Cornyn despite President Donald Trump's demand that the candidates wrap up the fight; and expect possible delays on Interstate 30 as more of the Canyon project's 2.3 mile stretch begins construction. The Texas Department of Transportation broke ground on the I-30 Canyon project Thursday morning in downtown Dallas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, Darlene Goehl – research engineer and research group lead at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute – explains how new infrastructure being developed in Texas can help prevent thousands of monarch butterfly deaths as they migrate across busy roads in North America.Episode NotesIn this podcast episode, Darlene Goehl joins ‘The Stream by AASHTO' to discuss the joint work of the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) with the Texas Department of Transportation in building monarch flight diverters or MFDs – a series of tall, mesh barriers placed along busy roads that motivate the butterflies to fly above the roadway, well above vehicles traveling on the highway below. Researchers have noted sharp declines in monarch populations, specifically during their migration periods in the fall. In some years, researchers found that nearly 3 percent of the monarch's fall migratory population were lost after being struck by vehicles traveling on roads; this number represents about half of the population decline in a given year.Goehl discusses the importance of monarch butterflies to the ecology and cultural symbology of the southern U.S. and northern Mexico, the role of transportation, and how TTI identifies “hot spots” for monarch roadkill. From there, Goehl explains the implementation and feasibility of MFDs in Texas and how the project will fare into the future.This podcast series is part of the AASHTO Environmental Management technical service program operated by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. It explores a wide array of environmental topics that affect state departments of transportation and the infrastructure programs they oversee.
Texas Government Code Section 2054.5191 mandates artificial intelligence and cybersecurity training for local government employees, elected officials, and appointed officials who have access to a local government computer system or database and use a computer to perform at least 25 percent of their duties. The training must be certified by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) — both this podcast and the YouTube video linked to the left are DIR-approved. This episode isn't some boring episode. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy — Ryan Burns — and his buddy — Hacker Hank — as they discuss ways that “Hank Hacks” trick local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more, along with newly-mandated artificial intelligence training. A local governmental entity must keep track of participants internally and certify its compliance by August 31, 2026, using the Cybersecurity Training Certification for State and Local Governments form.Further Information:OPTIONAL, self-administered cybersecurity and/or artificial intelligence test with answer key.Artificial Intelligence Presentation
From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. In the world of homicide investigations, few names carry the weight and respect of retired Texas Ranger Jim Holland. Known for solving some of the nation's most chilling crimes and extracting confessions where others failed, Holland's journey from The Texas Rangers to TV star has turned decades of real-life investigative work into compelling storytelling across television, podcasts, and digital media. The Podcast is available for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and most major podcast platforms. Today, audiences can follow his work through The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify, YouTube, where discussions about criminal investigations, interrogation psychology, and real-world police work are now widely available, for free via The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast to listeners hungry for authentic crime stories grounded in experience rather than fiction. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. An Unexpected Path Into Police Work Holland never set out with a clear plan to become one of America's most recognized investigators. Growing up outside Chicago in Polo, Illinois, he was raised in a large family whose parents renovated an orphanage to house their seven children, an upbringing that shaped his sense of responsibility and service. Supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . After graduating from the University of Louisville in 1993, Holland entered law enforcement in 1995 as a highway patrol trooper with the Texas Department of Public Safety. From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. “I didn't map out becoming a Ranger,” Holland said in an interview. “I just wanted to do meaningful police work and help people.” That path eventually led him into the elite Texas Ranger Division, the primary investigative arm of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Founded in 1823, the Rangers are the oldest statewide law enforcement agency in the United States and specialize in major violent crimes, cold cases, public corruption, and officer-involved shootings. Available for free on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and most major Podcast networks. Becoming a Ranger requires years of investigative experience, advanced training, and a reputation for excellence, standards Holland met through relentless work ethic and investigative success. Life As a Texas Ranger Holland spent more than two decades working complex cases across Texas, investigating murders, serial crimes, and missing persons cases that often left families without answers. “Hard work, dedication, not sleeping, long hours, and time away from family,” Holland explained. “Being a ranger is really a life of selflessness. It's about helping those who can't help themselves anymore.” From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. Look for The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. During his career, Holland worked security for then-Texas Governor George W. Bush and later played key roles in some of the country's most haunting criminal investigations. His reputation grew as someone departments called when cases stalled and traditional evidence ran dry. “I get brought in when there's no DNA or forensics,” Holland said. “My expertise is getting these people to talk.” Catching Killers and Solving Cold Cases Holland has cracked hundreds of cases, including investigations involving serial offenders and long-unsolved murders. Among his most notable achievements was his work with serial killer Samuel Little, whom the FBI later identified as the most prolific serial killer in U.S. history. Through patient interviews and psychological strategy, Holland elicited 93 confessions, helping investigators connect Little to at least 60 cold cases involving murdered women across the country. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. The Los Angeles Times famously referred to Holland as a “serial killer whisperer,” while national programs such as 60 Minutes highlighted his interrogation methods and investigative persistence. “Justice is a hard word,” Holland said. “There's nothing fair about someone being killed. But bringing answers to families and making sure the perpetrator doesn't have the opportunity to do it again, that's what matters.” From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. The Most Difficult Cases During interviews and podcast appearances, Holland frequently reflects on the emotional toll of homicide work. Some of his most difficult cases involved missing women whose investigations had gone cold for years. One particularly challenging investigation centered on the murder of a mother who vanished as a hurricane approached, creating chaos that complicated evidence collection and timelines. “These are cases where families are living in limbo,” Holland said. “You're not just solving a crime, you're giving people the ability to move forward.” His investigative work was also featured in nationally recognized cases highlighted on 48 Hours, including “The Murder of Jackie Vandagriff” and “The Plot to Kill Jamie Faith,” where fellow detectives credited Holland's interrogation techniques as pivotal breakthroughs. It is discussed across News platforms and shared on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Apple, and Spotify, where audiences continue to get their content. From Ranger Badge to Television Star After retiring from the Rangers, Holland found himself unexpectedly recruited by television producers eager to bring authentic investigative insight to true-crime audiences. He now stars in the eight-part Investigation Discovery series KILLER CONFESSIONS: CASE FILES OF A TEXAS RANGER, which premieres Tuesdays on ID, with episodes available for streaming on HBO Max. The series places viewers inside interrogation rooms, showing how cases are solved not through dramatic forensic breakthroughs but through psychology, patience, and conversation. From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. You can find the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, as well as read companion articles and updates on Medium, Blogspot, YouTube, and even IMDB. “People think investigations are always about physical evidence,” Holland said. “But sometimes it's about understanding people, why they did what they did and how to get them to tell the truth.” A New Era: Podcasts, News, and Digital Media Holland's transition into media reflects a broader shift in how audiences consume true crime. Interviews and discussions about his cases now reach global audiences through news platforms, podcasts, and social media channels. Listeners can hear Holland discuss investigative strategy and real-world policing through shows available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, while clips and behind-the-scenes insights circulate widely on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. The accessibility of these platforms allows the public to better understand the realities of police work, far removed from scripted television portrayals. “People want authenticity,” Holland said. “They want to understand how these cases actually get solved.” Legacy of Service Even in retirement, Holland remains a sought-after expert in investigative interviewing, frequently speaking to law enforcement agencies nationwide. Departments still call him when cases appear unsolvable, a testament to the reputation he built over decades. From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and other podcast platforms. From the interrogation room to television screens and podcasts, his mission remains unchanged. “Many victims never get the chance to speak,” Holland said. “My job has always been to make sure their stories are heard.” From The Texas Rangers to TV star, Jim Holland's career represents a rare bridge between real-world policing and public storytelling, proving that behind every solved case is not just evidence, but persistence, empathy, and the determination to keep catching killers long after the badge comes off. Be sure to check out our website . Be sure to follow us on X , Instagram , Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin and other social media platforms for the latest episodes and news. Background song Hurricane is used with permission from the band Dark Horse Flyer. You can contact John J. “Jay” Wiley by email at Jay@letradio.com , or learn more about him on their website . Find a wide variety of great podcasts online at The Podcast Zone Facebook Page , look for the one with the bright green logo. From The Texas Rangers To TV Star: Catching Killers. Attributions Investigation Discovery Channel News 4 Jax Wikipedia Facebook Facebook Group Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
On the night of January 28, 2006, 28-year-old Amber Lyn Smith was last seen at her home in the 1300 block of Aldama Street in Seguin, Texas. She was gone, but her purse, identification, and vehicle were still there. Her two young sons, just four years old and one month old, were asleep inside.Amber's disappearance launched one of the largest searches in Guadalupe County history. Local police, Texas Rangers, DPS Crime Lab personnel, K-9 units, volunteers, and later Texas EquuSearch combed fields and vacant properties in and around Seguin. Helicopters, drones, mounted teams, and sonar-equipped boats were used. No sign of Amber was found.On February 16, 2006, a Texas Department of Transportation worker discovered a badly decomposed body beneath a bridge at FM 725 and Grove Lane, roughly ten miles from Amber's home. Distinctive tattoos helped confirm the remains were hers. The autopsy listed the cause of death as undetermined due to decomposition, but investigators stated she had not arrived there on her own. In March 2006, a justice of the peace ruled her death a homicide.No one has ever been charged. Nearly two decades later, the case remains open.If you have any information about the murder of Amber Lyn Smith in Seguin, please contact Texas Crime Stoppers at (800) 252-8477.Get your GIRL SCOUT COOKIES here: https://digitalcookie.girlscouts.org/scout/alice241168You can support gone cold and listen to the show ad-free at https://patreon.com/gonecoldpodcastFind us at https://www.gonecold.comFor Gone Cold merch, visit https://gonecold.dashery.comFollow gone cold on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, YouTube, and X. Search @gonecoldpodcast at all or just click https://linknbio.com/gonecoldpodcast#JusticeForAmberLynSmith #Seguin #GuadalupeCounty #TX #Texas #TrueCrime #TexasTrueCrime #ColdCase #TrueCrimePodcast #Podcast #ColdCase #Unsolved #MissingPerson #Missing #Murder #UnsolvedMurder #UnsolvedMysteries #Homicide #CrimeStories #PodcastRecommendations #CrimeJunkie #MysteryPodcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gone-cold-texas-true-crime--3203003/support.
Send Kris and Rob a Text Message!*This episode deals with the subject of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233).A Texas mother of four, Suzanne Simpson, disappears after an alleged domestic dispute—and prosecutors later charge her husband, Brad Simpson, with murder in a case that has drawn intense scrutiny because it's being pursued as a no-body homicide. In this episode, we break down what's publicly known so far: the reported timeline around Oct. 6, 2024, the early arrests and allegations, the murder charge filed on Nov. 7, 2024, and the pretrial fight over evidence and discovery. We also explain why prosecutors can move forward without recovered remains, what kinds of circumstantial proof typically become pivotal, and what to watch as the court calendar shifts following reports of a new wave of evidence. We also cover the connected case involving Brad Simpson's longtime business partner, James Cotter, who has faced charges reported as tampering with evidence and prohibited-weapon allegations tied to the investigation. Episode topics:· Suzanne Simpson missing: what we know· Brad Simpson murder charge + indictment· Bexar County hearings, discovery deadlines, and delays · The James "Val" Cotter case and alleged evidence issues· How no-body murder cases are prosecutedListener note: This episode discusses alleged domestic violence, disappearance, and homicide. Brad Simpson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. If someone has information about Suzanne Simpson's whereabouts, call:Call the Olmos Park Police Department (tip line / dispatch): (210) 822-2000. Call the Texas Department of Public Safety Missing Persons Clearinghouse:Phone: (512) 424-5074Helpline: (800) 346-3243 sources used for this podcast: https://www.hitched2homicide.com/post/suzanne-simpson-brad-simpson-murder-trial-timelineSupport the showJOIN THE HITCHED 2 HOMICIDE IN-LAWS AND OUTLAWSSTART KRIS CALVERT'S BOOKS TODAY FOR FREEH2H WEBSITEH2H on TWITTERH2H on INSTA
North Texans are left with one crucial question: When will this snow and ice melt? Unfortunately, there isn't just one answer. Instead, a pattern of melting and refreezing may persist for several days. That refreezing makes black ice a threat for D-FW commuters today. Exact road conditions will depend on how much ice can be cleared by the Texas Department of Transportation throughout the day. In other news, Wakeland High School officials confirmed that the 16-year old girl who died in a sledding accident Sunday was a sophomore at the school. 16-year old Elizabeth Angle died after the sled she and another 16-year-old girl were on collided with a tree; Gov. Greg Abbott said Monday the White House needs to “recalibrate” Immigration and Customs Enforcement's mission to rebuild public trust after federal agents fatally shot a second protester in Minnesota; nd Dallas police impounded nearly a dozen all-terrain vehicles Sunday after reports of reckless driving during the weekend's icy conditions, the department said, including one response in Deep Ellum that led to an arrest on a child-endangerment charge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.In this two-part series, we go international and speak with Hangar Z co-hosts and international instructors. The panel includes Harald Brink, chief tactical flight officer from the Dutch national police; Lt Clay Lacey from the Texas Department of Public Safety; and Jon Duke, a U.K. military aviation veteran and contributor to Vertical and Vertical Valor magazines. This conversation goes beyond borders to examine the common ground and critical differences in air support operations between the U.S. and Europe. From suspect behavior that looks the same in Dallas as it does in The Hague, to the training that makes agency operations effective and efficient.We talk about the intense task saturation of the tactical flight officer—a job we argue is the most difficult in all of law enforcement—and the crucial safety threshold of simulator training, plus the tactical impact of flying single-engine helicopters versus the big twins.Check out the article "Aerial Pursuit Across Continents" by Jon Duke, who joins us to help cross-pollinate these incredible conversations into print. You can find the article in the Fall issue of Vertical Valor magazine. Visit VerticalMag.com to read more about this collaboration that came to life, alongside this recording!Thank you to our sponsors Bell, CENTUM and Metro Aviation.
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.In this two-part series, we go international and speak with Hangar Z co-hosts and international instructors. The panel includes Harald Brink, chief tactical flight officer from the Dutch national police; Lt Clay Lacey from the Texas Department of Public Safety; and Jon Duke, a U.K. military aviation veteran and contributor to Vertical and Vertical Valor magazines. This conversation goes beyond borders to examine the common ground and critical differences in air support operations between the U.S. and Europe. From suspect behavior that looks the same in Dallas as it does in The Hague, to the training that makes agency operations effective and efficient.We talk about the intense task saturation of the tactical flight officer—a job we argue is the most difficult in all of law enforcement—and the crucial safety threshold of simulator training, plus the tactical impact of flying single-engine helicopters versus the big twins.Check out the article "Aerial Pursuit Across Continents" by Jon Duke, who joins us to help cross-pollinate these incredible conversations into print. You can find the article in the Fall issue of Vertical Valor magazine. Visit VerticalMag.com to read more about this collaboration that came to life, alongside this recording!Thank you to our sponsors Bell, CENTUM and Precision Aviation Group.
This week, we're in Texas discussing one of the worst cases of Munchausen by Proxy. Then, we'll talk about one of the most talked about murder cases in the Dallas Fort Worth history. Buckle up and join us on this dark and twisted ride through the Lone Star State.Be sure to subscribe on Apple and leave a review, or email us at unitedstatesofmurder@gmail.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!Watch: Something's Killing Me (Hope Ybarra), Sources: New York Post, Signs of Munchausen by Proxy, Miami Herald, Rolling Stone - Beyond Gypsy Rose Blanchard, Darlie Routier (Wiki), Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Death Penalty Information SystemMusic by Pixabay
In the last episode, I told you the story of Marion Jester-Montoya, a joyful little girl with sparkling brown eyes and a ready smile, who tragically died at the age of 10 months after her mother's boyfriend zipped her into a backpack all day instead of having someone else care for her. That man, Trevor Rowe, is now serving a life sentence in the Texas Department of Corrections for Marion's brutal and senseless murder.In this episode, you'll hear my recent conversation with Marion's family: her father, Emilio; her grandma, Sheilah; and her aunt, Carla, who told me about the precious girl they miss every day, how her loss has affected them, and what they've experienced over the past six years. This is part 2 of the heartbreaking story of Marion Jester-Montoya.Photos related to Marion's story can be viewed on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.147989863442370&type=3You can also follow the podcast on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sufferthelittlechildrenpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@STLCpodMy Linktree is available here: https://linktr.ee/stlcpod Visit the podcast's web page at https://www.sufferthelittlechildrenpod.com. By supporting me on Patreon, you'll also access rewards, including a shout-out by name on the podcast and exclusive rewards. Visit www.patreon.com/STLCpod. You can also support the podcast on www.Ko-Fi.com/STLCpod. **New! Become a member of my YouTube channel for perks, ranging from a shout-out, members-only chat emoji, and loyalty badges to other rewards. Click here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCogRWoIzWMy7TX5PuX18smQ/join Join my Spreaker Supporters' Club: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/suffer-the-little-children--4232884/support This podcast is researched, written, hosted, edited, and produced by Laine.Music for this episode is licensed from https://audiojungle.net. Subscribe to Suffer the Little Children:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suffer-the-little-children/id1499010711Google Podcasts: https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/I5mx3lacxpdkhssmk2n22csf32u?t%3DSuffer_the_Little_Children%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16Spreaker: https://www.spreaker.com/show/suffer-the-little-children Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/suffer-the-little-children/PC:61848?part=PC:61848&corr=podcast_organic_external_site&TID=Brand:POC:PC61848:podcast_organic_external_siteSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0w98Tpd3710BZ0u036T1KEiHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/77891101/ ...or on your favorite podcast listening platform.If you see something, say something. https://childhelp.org