Reporting Texas
News and features from UT-Austin's School of Journalism
byMeredith McKelvey
A 16-year-old boy and his older siblings, both in their early 20s, were detained with more than 40 others during a law enforcement raid at a party in Hays County. According to a press statement, the raid was the result of a federal investigation into a Venezuelan gang that has become a target of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement.
The siblings’ mother told Reporting Texas that the authorities are wrong.
“I want the public to know that my children are not linked to any gang, as the government is saying,” the mother said.
The siblings remain detained at an undisclosed location.
byMadeline de Figueiredo
Recent cuts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture have forced the cancellation of 396 food deliveries to Texas food banks, putting at risk nearly 12 million pounds of food valued at $19 million and intended for emergency food assistance.
byLuke Lawhorn
Austin’s soccer popularity can be seen through the sold-out crowds for its Major League Soccer team, Austin FC, and the strength of its high school soccer programs. Austinites also have a thriving network of pickup games running in parks. In a country where medical experts report people are losing fitness and a sense of community, Vanta Athletics is striving to keep the two together.
Vanta is Austin’s first and only rooftop soccer facility, available for memberships for anyone 18 or older. The field, which sits on top of a parking garage at 300 San Antonio St., was built in two days by its founders, Sam Clark and Tanner Friesen, last August.
byAngelica Ruzanova
The fire station at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge resembles a cross between military barracks and a dorm room. Dusty cans labeled “dehydrated water,” unlaced boots a few sizes too big, and an untuned guitar clutter the space. Engine Captain Caleb Thyer calls nearby homeowners to issue an important notification. A prescribed burn is planned […]
