News from the South - Texas News Feed
VA Plans 80,000 Job Cuts for Efficiency
SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to cut approximately 80,000 jobs, about 17% of its workforce, to improve efficiency. Secretary Doug Collins stated the goal is not reducing money or people but eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. VA employees and union representatives, including the American Federation of Government Employees, fear these cuts will compromise veterans’ care, especially in areas like call centers, eligibility, benefits, and mental health support. Crisis responders, like Erica Alexander, worry layoffs will leave veterans without essential services, while union vice president Jonathan Geller emphasizes the loss of care for those who served the country.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is set to lay off 80,000 employees. Leigh Waldman speaks with VA workers concerned about how this will affect veterans’ care.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Slawinski's small town toughness starts in Johnson City
SUMMARY: Johnny Slawinski, a top MLB Draft prospect from Johnson City, Texas, stands out as a talented left-handed pitcher from an unlikely small-town background. Johnson City, with a population of around 2,000, has never had a player drafted into Major League Baseball before. Despite playing on a challenging high school field with poor conditions, Slawinski’s confidence and skill have earned him recognition as the 68th overall prospect. Committed to Texas A&M, he faces a choice between college baseball and going pro. Proud of his humble roots, Slawinski appreciates the close-knit community and the mental toughness developed on his hometown field.
The post Slawinski's small town toughness starts in Johnson City appeared first on www.kxan.com
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Oreo maker sues Aldi over packaging of store-brand products
SUMMARY: Oreo maker Mondelez has sued Aldi, claiming the store’s house-brand packaging copies Oreo’s distinctive blue design and cookie likeness. The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court argues Aldi’s packaging infringes on Oreo’s iconic trademark. Mondelez also alleges Aldi copied packaging of other brands like Wheat Thins (named Thin Wheat) and Utter Butter Cookies (Peanut Butter Creme). Aldi has not commented on the lawsuit. Despite the claims, many shoppers appreciate Aldi’s low prices and are aware they’re buying store brands, not the originals. A judge will decide if Aldi must change its packaging. Until then, enjoy the savings.
A judge will ultimately decide whether Aldi has to change some of its packaging.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
What’s happening with the money Travis County approved for affordable child care?
SUMMARY: Travis County approved a 2.5-cent property tax increase in November to fund affordable child care, generating about \$75 million in its first year. This funding aims to create 1,900 child care slots for low-income babies and toddlers and nearly 3,900 after-school and summer slots for elementary students, while incentivizing businesses to expand child care options. Early services are launching this summer and fall, including funding waitlisted families, supporting working parents, and expanding existing programs. Public input has influenced these efforts, especially for children under three, prompting the county to accelerate funding initiatives and partnerships with Austin. The next update is due July 15.
The post What's happening with the money Travis County approved for affordable child care? appeared first on www.kxan.com
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