You know the saying about the weather here in Texas: if you don't like it, give it a few minutes. I've often wondered just how much that truly reflects our experience, or if it's more a reflection of how much Texans like the sound of homespun wisdom. After all, our weather doesn't really shift that often, though when it does, watch out. In this week's edition of the newsletter, we read about allegations against a top Texas Agriculture Department aide, accused of telling would be hemp-growers he could help secure licenses for a price . The fact that hemp is now a cash crop here reflects how much things are changing. The allegations of graft? Maybe not so much. Ditto when it comes to problems with the Texas foster care system. For years, the system has been in disarray , blamed for the deaths of scores of young people in its care, and in 2015, ruled so dangerous as to be "unconstitutional." But a new report from federal monitors shows how little has improved during the decade-long legal battle over conditions. Similarly, this legislative session was expected to be dedicated to huge sweeping issues touching all Texans, from the pandemic to police reform and power outages. Now, as the session winds down, we are seeing a return to familiar culture war themes , raising alarms for some families of transgender children. And then there's Texas music, transitioning to new sounds as a younger generation redefines the very term "Texas music," though its themes are often as familiar as family. There's so much to explore in this week’s newsletter, and we hope you enjoy getting caught up on the news as much as we enjoy bringing these stories to you. Until next Wednesday, we'll see you on the radio.

- David Brown

Work safe, Texas. Texas Work Comp Insurance

In Depth: Texas Rangers’ Hemp Scheme Investigation Focuses on Sid Miller’s Top Political Aide

Todd Smith allegedly told would-be hemp growers and investors that he could get them an exclusive license – for a price.

Mom Of Trans Teen: Texas ‘Basically Trying To Legislate These Kids Out Of Existence’

A mother and daughter share their heartfelt concerns about a bill that would define gender-affirming treatment as child abuse.

New Report: Texas Foster Care System Still Falls Short

At least 23 children have died in foster care since 2019. Many are still sleeping in state offices rather than in foster homes.

In ‘Blue Heron Suite,’ Sarah Jarosz Finds Calm On The Texas Coast: Interview

On her latest album, the Wimberley native reflects on family memories from Port Aransas and her mother’s battle with cancer.

Austin Leaders Want Equity In Vaccination Rates. So Far That Hasn't Happened. (KUT Austin)
Uber And Lyft Will Give Free Rides To COVID-19 Vaccination Spots, White House Says (NPR)
Family Names Bar In $20 Million Lawsuit Over Deadly Collision In San Antonio (Texas Public Radio)
Police Arrest Man They Say Let A Tiger Roam West Houston – But The Big Cat Is Still Loose (Houston Public Media)

Hello! My name is Liz Myong and I’m the assistant digital producer at KERA. I also report on race and culture, business and the arts. I started in my position last January, right before the pandemic hit. It’s been a strange time to jump into a new job, but it’s also been incredibly meaningful to report on North Texas where I grew up. In the last year, I’ve had the opportunity to cover different small businesses owned by people of color. My reporting’s taken me to nail salons, barbecue restaurants, a donut shop and a local Chinatown . I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it’s been for entrepreneurs to keep their businesses afloat and the sacrifices they’ve had to make. In a year of racial reckoning, I’ve also seen how these business owners have allowed their cultural identities to fuel what they do, whether that’s educating customers through lunchbox specials on Juneteenth or holding #StopAsianHate fundraisers. After a rocky year of a statewide shutdown, the gradual lifting of capacity restrictions and other unexpected COVID changes, it feels like things are slowly improving. Still, each business is unique and it’s uncertain what full recovery will look like. As the region continues to grow, the tapestry of local businesses help tell the story of North Texas. I’m just grateful that folks have let me into their lives and businesses - which are so often intertwined - to share their triumphs, challenges, frustrations and hope during such a volatile year.

- Elizabeth Myong

@elizabeth_myong

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