Ep. 75: The Sheriffs' Legislative Perspective: Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne
Release Date: 02/28/2025
Ep. 96: From Potholes to Public Office: A Working Commissioner's Story
Texas County Voice
From patching asphalt as part of a county work crew to elected official, De Witt County Commissioner Ryan Varela knows what it takes to keep rural roads moving. In this episode of Texas County Voice — part of our Texas County Storytellers initiative — he shares how the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom tests South Texas infrastructure, and the lessons of responsibility, resilience and service he’s learned along the way. See also:
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Ep. 95: The Stories Shaping Texas Counties – A Look Inside County Magazine
Texas County Voice
Take a first look inside the newest issue of . In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn talks with Managing Editor Mary Huber about the , plus other standout stories ranging from rodeos to drones to the marriage capital of Texas. Along the way, they spotlight TAC's and . But wait! There's more. Don't miss a preview of the upcoming . Press play and catch it all.
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Ep. 94: Sharing What Works: TAC’s County Best Practices Awards
Texas County Voice
Counties across Texas are finding smart, practical ways to serve their communities, and TAC's County Best Practices Awards are designed to highlight those successes. In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC County Relations Officers Rhita Koches and Jay Mayden explain how the awards program works, why it matters and how an innovative idea in one county can benefit all 254. If your county is doing something worth sharing, this episode is your invitation to tell that story. Related information:
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Ep. 93: Meet TAC's New President, Denton County Treasurer Cindy Yeatts Brown
Texas County Voice
Denton County Treasurer Cindy Yeatts Brown began her two-year term as President of the Texas Association of Counties Board of Directors on Jan. 1. In this episode of Texas County Voice, she reflects on a journey that started with a part-time county job in high school and grew into nearly four decades of public service. Listen as she shares the experiences that shaped her passion for county government.
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Ep. 92: Real Talk on Men's Health
Texas County Voice
November is Men's Health Awareness month. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we sit down with TAC's Senior Director of Health Benefit Services Quincy Quinlan and Senior Wellness Consultant Mark Zollitsch to explore why men often avoid care, the barriers they face and how reaching out can make a difference. From vital stats to practical tips, we shine a light on why speaking up is the first step toward a healthier life.
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Ep. 91: Behind the Pages: County Storytellers and the Road to the 2030 Census
Texas County Voice
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we catch up with Mary Huber, managing editor of County magazine, for a look inside the latest issue. Hear why Texas counties should already be getting ready for the 2030 census and get a sneak peek at Texas County Storytellers, a new feature celebrating the people who bring county government to life. You'll also meet Rockwall County Justice of the Peace Mark Russo, the first storyteller in the new series. He shares what inspires his work and his connection to the community he serves.
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Ep. 90: Newton County Halloween
Texas County Voice
Happy Halloween! Newton County Judge Ronnie Cochran tells us about getting the courthouse ready to pass out candy for local school children, and why he hopes the impact of this event will leave a lasting impression on the community.
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Ep. 89: Inside TAC's 2025 Legislative Conference: Cybersecurity
Texas County Voice
This episode of Texas County Voice, we feature highlights from the 2025 Legislative Conference session on Cybersecurity. Dallas County Clerk John Warren and Texas Association of Counties Deputy Director of Technology Services Peter Crary talk about the newly formed Texas Cyber Command, plus how counties can use AI to serve their communities.
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Ep. 88: Inside TAC's 2025 Legislative Conference: Big Issues, County Stories
Texas County Voice
Recorded at TAC’s 2025 Legislative Conference, this episode of Texas County Voice takes you behind the scenes with Texas county leaders sharing stories from the frontlines. Join us for insights on the legislation that made it through this year's Legislature and what it means for counties across the state. Related Resources:
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Ep. 87: Echoes of Helena: Preserving the Toughest Little Town in Texas
Texas County Voice
Once known as the Helena was booming — until one man's vengeance stopped its future. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we visit the former seat of Karnes County to explore its wild past, from rowdy saloons and infamous duels to the grief-fueled act that sealed the town's fate. Discover the stories still echoing in Helena's surviving buildings and the ongoing efforts to preserve what remains.
info_outlineIn this episode of Texas County Voice, Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne outlines the priorities of the Sheriff's Association of Texas during the 89th Legislature. From grant funding for rural law enforcement to border security and THC regulation, Sheriff Hawthorne discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Texas sheriffs and counties.