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:County magazine: Dust, pavement and the price of progress Texas County Storytellers

Take a first look inside the newest issue of County magazine. In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn talks with Managing Editor Mary Huber about the cover story on De Witt County and the Eagle Ford Shale, plus other standout stories ranging from rodeos to drones to the marriage capital of Texas. Along the way, they spotlight TAC's Texas County Storytellers and County Best Practices Awards. But wait! There's more. Don't miss a preview of the upcoming Healthy County Boot Camp. Press play and catch it all.

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: TAC County Best Practices Awards Program TAC County Relations Officers

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.

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.