The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many of our lives. "Texas Together: A Coronavirus Conversation" brought together state and local experts to discuss your questions and concerns.
TEGNA stations across Texas broadcasted this one-hour special on-air and online Thursday night.
TEGNA’s Texas stations are coming together to serve the greater good of our local communities financially as well. The TEGNA Foundation and our stations across the state will be donating $100,000 to COVID-19 Relief Efforts across the state.
The one-hour special "Texas Together" focused on the significant issues Texans are facing as coronavirus -- and our response to it -- impacts all facets of our lives.
Among the topics discussed are personal finance, strategies for working from home, business economy, and mental health. The goal of this special conversation was to provide strategic, actionable advice from professionals who have made their careers in these areas of expertise.
The show opened with an updated from Gov. Greg Abbott.
The governor shared that more resources are coming for health care workers. He also clarified his executive order, asking people to stay home except for essential services.
Personal finance
Next Jason Wheeler of WFAA talked to economist Diane Swonk and Ed Serna, the executive director of the Texas Workforce Commission.
Swonk shared was to expect for the economy in the coming months and why she thinks Congress will pass more aid packages to help the country hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
Working from home
Sara Koprowski from Keller ISD is a teacher and a parent. She has a number of tips to help parents working from home. Two important steps: making a schedule for yourself and your kids, and making sure you all get to take a break from "working."
Sandy Jones is a professional organizer who says one of the most important things you can do is set up an efficient workspace to make sure you can be as effective at home as you are at the office.
Epidemiologist Dr. John Carlo provided new context about the coronavirus and explained what to expect as it spreads. He said the most important thing now is slowing the spread to ease the pressure on our health care system.
The economy
How fast will the Texas economy rebound from the COVID-19 disruption?
Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks and star of ABC's 'Shark Tank' and Charles Schwab vice president Philip Kendall shared their thoughts on what to expect.
Mental health
For many Texans, the crisis caused by the novel coronavirus is causing tremendous stress.
Bill Prasad, a licensed professional counselor and mental health and wellness expert, says the majority of adults who are putting up a strong front for their immediate family, it's all about stress management and coping techniques.
"Texas Together: A Coronavirus Conversation" was anchored by WFAA's Jason Wheeler, KHOU's Mia Gradney, KENS's Deborah Knapp, and KVUE's Terri Gruca.