Texas Longhorns Jump Up In Polls
The Texas Longhorns moved up several spots in the major college football polls after beating Iowa State 37-14 Saturday night. Texas is now ranked 11th in the AP poll and 10th in the USA Today coaches' poll. The Horns had been ranked 17th in both polls. These are the highest ranks the Longhorns have seen since the beginning of last season. Texas takes on Oklahoma in Dallas this weekend in the Red River Rivalry.
How Prepared are You For Fires?
National Fire Prevention Week is next week and it's taking on a new significance in Texas amid this record setting wildfire season. The American Red Cross of Central Texas is encouraging people to be prepared and has released some tips:
- Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home and inside bedrooms
- Test your smoke alarms once a month and replace alarm batteries at least once a year
- Teach children what the alarm sounds like and what they should do if they hear it
- Keep all fuel sources such as paper, clothing and bedding at least three feet away from all heat sources
- Create a home fire escape plan and practice it with family members at least twice a year
Today the City of Austin's Public Safety Commission will get briefings on wildfire safety and preparedness from the Austin Fire Department and Austin Energy. The public meeting starts at 4 p.m.
NPR Hires New Leader
NPR's board announced Sunday it has selected a new president and CEO. Gary E. Knell is chief executive of the company behind the children's TV show, Sesame Street. Here's more about Knell from NPR.org:
Knell, 57, said he hopes to "calm the waters" at NPR after a rocky year in which the institution lost several top executives and faced renewed challenges to its funding. Knell currently leads Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit education organization that also produces Electric Company, Dragon Tales and other highly regarded children's shows. He has been with the company since 1989, and rose through the ranks to become CEO in 2000.