Sarah, a young teacher from the East Coast, set out for Texas unsure of what she'd find.

 

From the instant she arrived, she felt an undeniable sense of belonging under the expansive Texas sky.

 

Her first local greeting—a warm "howdy" in an Amarillo diner—proved Lone Star hospitality was more than a rumor.

 

Sarah embraced Texas traditions, cheering at a lively rodeo and dancing at a classic hall, forging bonds that felt genuine and lasting.

 

Weekend festivals, from the bustling State Fair of Texas to intimate local gatherings, deepened her sense of community.

 

She delighted in smoky brisket and vibrant Tex-Mex flavors, discovering food that celebrated the state’s diverse heritage.

 

Nature called to her, from wildflowers in Hill Country to sunsets along the Gulf Coast, offering endless adventures.

 

Inspired, Sarah launched her own bakery, drawn by Texas's thriving economy and encouraging spirit.

 

In Texas, she found warmth, culture, and opportunity—her true home.

The West Texas Symphony launches its 63rd season with an electrifying lineup, blending rock icons and classical legends for Midland-Odessa audiences.

 

Music Director Gary Lewis leads the charge, promising variety from timeless masterpieces to fresh, bold performances.

 

Mainstage concerts will fill the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center, while the Chamber Series highlights local ensembles such as the West Texas Winds and Permian Basin String Quartet.

 

The season opens with “Key Collaborations,” featuring acclaimed pianist Fei-Fei in Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Elgar’s Enigma Variations.

 

October brings former Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page for a unique pop-symphony fusion.

 

November shines a spotlight on Co-Principal Trumpet Eric Baker.

 

Holiday magic arrives in December with double “Sounds of the Season” concerts.

 

Look forward to Brahms, Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits reimagined, and a modern twist with Dr. Peter Martens on electric organ.

 

Subscriptions and budget-friendly tickets ensure everyone can enjoy this season of musical innovation.

Pride and anticipation filled Warriors Hall as 164 graduates crossed the stage at Texas A&M University-Central Texas, sharing their achievements with loved ones in an atmosphere brimming with joy.

 

Families and graduates walked arm-in-arm, creating a unique sense of community that made commencement a shared, emotional milestone.

 

University President Richard Rhodes called it the most joyful day of the year, witnessing the heartfelt celebrations from families and supporters.

 

The ceremony spotlighted stories like Alexis Taylor, a single mother of four and Army veteran, who conquered immense challenges to earn her master’s in clinical mental health, inspired by her children and supportive professors.

 

Taylor’s perseverance resonated throughout the event, reflecting the university’s spirit of resilience and hope.

 

As students and families exited together, the university reaffirmed its vital role supporting non-traditional students and igniting brighter community futures.

Julie Bazan, executive director of the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) of the Mid Rio Grande Border Area, was honored by the Laredo City Council for winning the prestigious Center of Excellence Award from the National AHEC Organization.

 

This national recognition highlights Bazan and her team's unwavering commitment to serving Laredo’s medically underserved community.

 

Mayor Victor Trevino commended their innovative healthcare programs, which have expanded access to vital services for local residents.

 

Bazan shared pride in showcasing Laredo on a national stage and expressed gratitude for her team and the city’s historic acknowledgment of their efforts.

 

AHEC President Mercurio Martinez praised Bazan as a strong leader and role model, especially important as Laredo faces physician shortages.

 

This milestone not only honors AHEC’s contributions to health equity, but also inspires ongoing efforts to expand resources and improve community wellbeing.

Preservation Texas has opened nominations for its renowned 2025 Honor Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to historic preservation across the state.

 

The awards honor individuals and projects demonstrating excellence in preservation, rehabilitation, historic reconstruction, and innovative infill work.

 

Winners will be recognized at a vibrant ceremony in San Antonio on Thursday, October 30, set amid the city’s storied heritage.

 

Samantha Hunick, Programs Coordinator, encourages communities and organizations to nominate advocates, educators, skilled tradespeople, and visionary projects that have transformed Texas’ historic landscapes.

 

Two key categories—Individual Awards and Preservation Project Awards—invite a wide range of nominations, including self-submissions.

 

Projects must be recently completed and meet national preservation standards, with a panel of experts ensuring the highest recognition.

 

Nominations close Friday, September 12.

 

Entry fees start at $50 for members, offering everyone a chance to celebrate the state’s enduring legacy.

VeraBank has launched a Flood Recovery Matching Gift Campaign to support Texas Hill Country communities reeling from July’s destructive flash floods.

 

Local donors can now multiply the impact of their generosity.

 

Gifts made to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and WilCo Cares Flood Relief Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar by VeraBank, up to $75,000 per fund.

 

Bank officials have also committed $75,000 in direct donations to each fund, potentially raising the total relief to $450,000 if goals are met by the August 1 deadline.

 

Contributions are accepted through the VeraBank website.

 

CEO Casey Tidwell stressed the campaign’s importance in helping families and businesses recover and rebuild after widespread flood damage.

 

Support from VeraBank and the community is poised to make a lasting difference for affected residents.

Julia Hatfield, a local songwriter, lost her RV and home in the devastating July flash floods that tore through Blue Oak Park, yet she draws resilience from the unity around her.

 

Floodwaters surged over 30 feet, claiming 135 lives and uprooting families, including Hatfield and her husband, who were left with only each other and the support of the community.

 

Rather than dwell on hardship, Hatfield works shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbors, clearing debris and rescuing keepsakes from the mud.

 

Local volunteers, faith groups, and civic organizations continue to provide meals, supplies, and hands-on aid, while donations have poured in from across Texas and beyond, helping uninsured residents recover.

 

For Hatfield, music has become a lifeline—her raw new songs written on her parents’ porch help process trauma and deepen community bonds.

 

Her story stands as a testament to Ingram’s enduring spirit, where creativity and compassion fuel recovery in the wake of tragedy.

Harlingen has become the 87th city to join the Music Friendly Texas program, Governor Greg Abbott revealed from Austin on July 22.

 

This state initiative, led by the Texas Music Office, aims to boost economic growth and foster tourism by spotlighting cities that champion live music venues, music enterprises, and cultural events.

 

Since launching in 2016, the network has supported a thriving Texas music industry, which now contributes more than $31 billion annually and sustains over 196,000 permanent jobs.

 

Local leaders like Representative Oscar Longoria and Mayor Norma Sepulveda emphasize that this new certification will strengthen Harlingen’s economy, build local identity, and expand entertainment options for families.

 

As a certified community, Harlingen gains access to exclusive marketing tools, industry connections, and resources—uniting residents and visitors through vibrant live music experiences.

Dallas’s Koreatown and Richardson’s Chinatown will soon have official highway exit signs, marking a first for these vibrant communities.

 

Governor Greg Abbott signed the new law in June, working from legislation authored by Rep. Rafael Anchia.

 

The signage will appear at Royal Lane on I‑35E for Koreatown, and at Arapaho and Belt Line roads on U.S. 75 for Chinatown.

 

The Texas Department of Transportation is required to install the signs by September 2026.

 

Community leaders, including Charles Park and Johnny Lee, say this move highlights both cultural pride and growing economic impact, offering a sense of visibility and belonging to residents and visitors alike.

Central Texas communities are rallying after devastating July 4 flash floods, with the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country raising an extraordinary $60 million in just over two weeks for relief.

 

The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund doubled its initial $30 million within days, showing unprecedented community and statewide support.

 

CEO Austin Dickson announced a fresh $4.4 million in grants to 15 organizations, following a previous $5 million distributed to 22 groups.

 

Ingram ISD will receive over $1 million to repair schools for the fall, while LiftFund secures $2 million to help small businesses recover.

 

Generosity has come from celebrities such as Maren Morris and Robert Earl Keen, as well as countless local residents.

 

Looking forward, the foundation plans to form a Community Advisory Council to guide long-term recovery and support for all Hill Country residents.

The Texas Restaurant Awards lit up Houston’s 713 Music Hall on July 20, spotlighting culinary talent from across the state.

 

North Texas chefs and restaurateurs brought home major honors: Ernie Quilantan of E Bar Tex Mex clinched Greater Dallas Restaurateur of the Year, Adrian Burciaga of Don Artemio won for Tarrant County, and Amanda Case of Pelican’s took North Texas Restaurateur of the Year.

 

Emerging stars also shone brightly, with Diego Galicia and Rico Torres of Mixtli (San Antonio) named Rising Stars, while Kyle Citrano of George’s/Jorge’s in Waco received the Deep in the Heart Award.

 

Additional recognition went to chefs crafting exceptional menus statewide and to leaders making a difference through education and community impact.

 

With Texas restaurants driving a $138 billion industry, this year’s awards celebrated innovation, leadership, and community—the heart of the local dining scene.

The UTRGV women’s tennis team has earned recognition as an ITA All-Academic Team, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence in both athletics and academics.

 

The Vaqueros achieved a notable 3.67 team GPA, well above the 3.2 threshold required for this honor during the 2024-25 academic year.

 

Seven standout players—Mariia Bakhtina, Kristal Dule, Madeleine Joffe, Rhea Makesar, Hitakamya Narwal, Valentina Urraco, and Yaiza Vazquez—were each named ITA Scholar-Athletes for maintaining GPAs of 3.5 or higher.

 

These achievements highlight the team’s balance between demanding sports schedules and rigorous academic pursuits.

 

Beyond the classroom and courts, the Vaqueros inspire local youth, hosting a free clinic in Harlingen that welcomed 70 children from the region in October 2023.

 

With head coach West Nott expressing pride, the team continues to serve as role models in the Rio Grande Valley.

KFDM Channel 6 News was celebrated as Television Station of the Year at the first Southeast Texas Visionary Awards, hosted at Beaumont’s Downtown Event Centre.

 

This new event shines a spotlight on local creativity by honoring achievements in music, film, poetry, fashion, and media across the region.

 

Chosen by viewers through public nominations and votes, KFDM earned praise for its reliable coverage and deep commitment to Southeast Texas communities.

 

News Director Patrina Adger accepted the award, recognizing the whole newsroom team for telling timely stories that matter locally.

 

The red-carpet gala featured cultural fashion shows and live acts, celebrating diversity and encouraging grassroots recognition.

 

Leaders at KFDM say the station will leverage this recognition to foster nonprofit partnerships, boost engagement, and further invest in digital reporting for the community’s future.

The University of Texas track and field and cross-country teams have reached a noteworthy milestone, with 25 Longhorns earning spots on the 2025 USTFCCCA All-Academic Team.

 

Eligibility required teams to maintain at least a 3.0 collective GPA.

The men’s squad stood out with a strong 3.31 GPA, while the women’s team achieved a stunning program record of 3.49.

 

On the men’s roster, 11 athletes—including Sam Abati, Xavier Butler, and Nabil Tezkratt—demonstrated excellence across sprints, hurdles, jumps, and distance events.

 

The women’s group celebrated 14 honorees such as Mackenzie Collins, Eva Jess, and Nina Ndubuisi, who excelled both on the field and in the classroom.

 

Coaches noted the impact of time management programs, study halls, and academic resources, helping athletes balance demanding travel and training schedules.

 

These 25 honors highlight Texas’ ongoing leadership in forging student-athlete success, on and off the track.

Bank of Texas is tackling child hunger in San Antonio with a $20,000 donation to Kids’ Meals, a nonprofit delivering meals to food-insecure children.

 

This funding will provide thousands of healthy breakfasts and lunches for local kids throughout the upcoming school year.

 

Bank employees have also volunteered, helping sort produce and assemble meal packs for area neighborhoods.

 

The bank implemented a matching gift program, doubling the impact of employee donations and boosting fundraising efforts.

 

More than 10,000 meals will reach children in need because of this initiative, which comes as poverty rates climb in some parts of the city.

 

With ongoing plans for more volunteer events, the bank invites customers and local groups to join in fighting child hunger.

 

Meanwhile, the San Antonio Food Bank’s first Restaurant Weeks event supports summer meal programs, with local restaurants donating $1 per special menu item sold to help feed kids during school breaks. These partnerships ensure children have access to nutritious meals year-round.

Jeff and Allison Balfour of San Antonio’s Southerleigh Hospitality Group have been named Outstanding Restaurateurs of the Year at the 2025 Texas Restaurant Association Awards. 

 

Since launching Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery in 2015, the Balfours have earned praise for fusing Gulf Coast cuisine with signature Texas warmth, serving standout dishes like house-made charcuterie and fresh Gulf oysters alongside an acclaimed beer garden. 

 

Their culinary ventures include Sense of Occasion Catering, offering customizable menus featuring Italian, Mexican, and French flavors, and the recent acquisition of Boiler House Texas Grill in the Pearl district, highlighting their commitment to San Antonio’s food scene. 

 

The Balfours are celebrated for supporting the community by partnering with food-rescue organizations and providing job-training opportunities for local youth. 

 

As innovative leaders, they inspire the industry with ethical growth and transparent practices, reinforcing their esteemed place in Texas dining. 

The 2025 Texas Restaurant Awards lit up Houston’s 713 Music Hall on July 20, spotlighting the talent shaping Texas’s food landscape.

 

George Christie of Christie's Seafood & Steaks and Cathy Painter Cace of Cace's Kitchen received Hall of Honor induction for decades of service and leadership.

 

Allison and Jeff Balfour of Southerleigh Hospitality Group earned Outstanding Restaurateur for innovative, locally sourced cuisine.

 

Community Impact went to Gary LeBlanc of Mercy Chefs for tirelessly providing meals during crises.

 

Alicia Kelso was honored for journalism, while Deborah Williamson took home Rising Star for modern American culinary flair.

 

The Deep in the Heart Award celebrated Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue in Tomball for rural excellence.

 

Chef Carlos Ramos of Milby High School was recognized for educational leadership.

 

Other honors highlighted local partners and advocacy across Texas.

 

Meanwhile, chef Thomas Bille won Best Chef: Texas at the 2025 James Beard Awards, and Gaido's Seafood Restaurant in Galveston received the America’s Classics Award.

 

These recognitions spotlight Texas’s thriving, diverse restaurant community.