Cicero said, “If you have a library and a garden, you have all that you need.” Texas Standard commentator WF Strong says you can begin to understand that wisdom when you enter the gates of Quinta Mazatlan. It’s an urban oasis in south McAllen.
Episodes
March 18, 2026
How the Texas Hill Country inspired NYC’s Central Park
It’s not hard to find a Texas connection to a news story. The same is true for history. One example that may surprise you is the fact that the Texas Hill Country inspired the design of New York Central Park. Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong explores. Stories from Texas is a listener-supported production of KUT […]
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March 4, 2026
Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong professes he knows a good deal about Texas literature, but has far less knowledge as to what classic and historical Texas books, in good condition, are worth.
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February 18, 2026
‘He didn’t take on an iconic role, he made the role iconic’: W.F. Strong on Robert Duvall
Texas Standard’s commentator remembers the Academy Award-winning actor who was not born a Texan, but played a heck of one on TV and film.
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February 4, 2026
Sandra Cisneros, a Texas literary rock star
Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong examines how one of the state’s most celebrated writers found a home in San Antonio.
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January 22, 2026
LBJ’s presidency was marked by turbulent change. And while the longtime Texas-born politician is often remembered for his role in the war and in civil rights, few remember what Commentator WF Strong calls LBJ’s ‘ secret weapon’ — his sense of humor.
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January 7, 2026
Traces of Texas – A priceless gift for all Texans
W.F. Strong offers up a story of thanks for Traces of Texas.
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December 17, 2025
How Three Gifts To UT Gave All Texans A Fourth: The Gift Of The Stars (re-run)
WF Strong talks about how the McDonald Observatory came to be.
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December 3, 2025
Mix up your holiday entertainment with a history of Texas’ lawless influence on Old West
WF Strong tells us that the author has a new book he’d recommend for those who might need an antidote for Hallmark holiday movies.
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