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Here are this week's stories about rural Texas that you need to read.
The Texas Rural Reporter is a weekly compilation of news stories around healthcare, education, economic development, and our way of life that we think you should read. Sign up to receive our weekly report.
March 17, 2023
TCFA: Micheal Bezner - There's No Place Like Home
From farming to feeding cattle, production agriculture has always been in the cards for Michael Bezner. “I enjoy growing things and the lifestyle that encompasses agriculture. I think it’s just in my DNA,” he says with a laugh.
Texas Tribune: A storied Texas Panhandle newspaper halts publication after 130 years
Thursday arrived as usual in the Texas Panhandle. But a new edition of The Canadian Record, this gritty town’s definitive source of local news for more than 130 years, did not come with it.
Beilue: Hey, Canadian Record, 'you were good'
An award-winning institution quietly said goodbye last week after 132 years of service to one of the most unique communities in the Texas Panhandle. The Canadian Record, the best small-town newspaper in the state, has likely printed its last edition and the good folks of Canadian are poorer for it.
Local representatives talk about school choice as the legislative session continues
As the 88th legislative session continues conversation surrounding school choice increase. A major push for school choice is due to concern in curriculums being taught in Texas public schools.
Anette on Education Podcast: Standing Up for Public Ed--Helen Warwick & Ted Beard
Anette visits with public ed advocates Ted Beard and Helen Warwick, discussing the recent op-ed written by the two of them in response to one by a community outsider with questionable motives. Thanks to both Ted and Helen for their pub ed advocacy and years of service! Learn more below. (Approx 25 minutes)
With virtual visits, telemedicine expands reach and care for rural areas of Texas
Health care's reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major integration of a rise in usage and confidence in telemedicine among the populace. With many of the emergency restrictions and rules ending in May nationwide, there are concerns that this valuable health care tool may go away or have restricted usage.
TTUHSC asking Texas legislators for $6.75 Million to fund telehealth
The Texas Tech Health Sciences Center took 30 faculty, students, and scientists to the Texas capital to speak to Texas legislators about their top legislative priorities for this session, primarily, expanding telehealth care in rural communities, specifically throughout the 108 Texas counties that TTUHSC serves.
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Advanced Power Alliance Report: Renewable Energy to Serve as Backbone for Emerging Energy Technologies in Texas
Renewable energy projects can help attract more diverse energy investment to Texas, including carbon capture, hydrogen production, and synthetic fuels production, according to a new study released by the Advanced Power Alliance (APA).
TFB: Texas lawmakers consider right to farm, meat labeling bills
Over 3,500 bills have been filed in the 88th Texas Legislature, and several of them relate to agriculture, property rights and rural communities. “The session is beginning to pick up speed, and there are already a number of bills filed to address priority issues important to farmers, ranchers and rural Texans,” Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) State Legislative Director Charlie Leal said.
Herald Banner: Texas speaker names infrastructure bills as top priority
Texas Speaker of the House Dade Phelan said infrastructure investment is a top priority this legislative session. Phelan released three additional top priorities focused on broadband, water and housing on Monday. “The Texas Legislature must continue to support our state’s rapidly-increasing demand for internet, water and housing,” Phelan said in a statement.
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