Tara Holley

Tara Holley's first on-air experience was at age 3 on a jingle in Temple, Texas. Radio has been a part of her life ever since. She received a BA in Theatre and Communication in 2004 from McMurry University. Her professional journey includes theatre, Neilsen media research, advertising and marketing, creative writing and scripting, and more. However, radio has always been her first professional love. Tara writes about all things East Texas -- including fantastic food, Texas legends and lore, and lifestyle topics. She loves conversation, comedy, coffee, animals, philosophy, and the arts. Her basic life philosophy can be summed up in the words of the great Bill and Ted: “Be Excellent to Each Other.” Tara received the Mayor's ROSE (Recognition of Service and Excellence) Award in 2021 and the President's Club Award for Townsquare Media Tyler in 2021 for Contributor of the Year. She served on the Heart of Tyler Board of Directors from 2017-2022, was a 2-year Chair for the Downtown Tyler Film Festival, and served on the Tyler Civic Theatre Board for several years, as well. She is currently on the Tyler Music Friendly Advisory Board.'

Texas’ Most Expensive Single Dish is Served at This Restaurant

Texas is home to some truly over-the-top dining experiences. From $300 tasting menus to a $1,000 Wagyu ribeye, here are the most expensive dishes being served in the Lone Star State.

‘Ozempic Teeth’: Dentists Warn of Alarming Side Effects from Popular Weight-Loss Drug

A new simulation reveals how Ozempic affects the body, with dentists raising concerns over side effects dubbed “Ozempic teeth,” including dry mouth and enamel erosion.

Is It Illegal to Get Out of Your Car at a Red Light in Texas?

We’ve all seen it—or done it: Someone hops out at a red light for laughs. But is it actually legal in Texas?

I Became a Little Sad While I Was Shopping Today in East Texas

Understaffing in retail stores is a growing issue, affecting both employees and customers. In East Texas, local and national stores alike are feeling the pressure.

Disney Announces First New Park in 15 Years! Texans May Already Be Planning Trips

Disney is opening a new theme park unlike any other—indoors, immersive, and far from home. Texans may want to pack early. Well, not too early. Completion is still quite a way out.

Texas AG is Investigating Kid-Friendly Toothpaste Ads

The state of Texas is digging into toothpaste ads made for kids. Attorney General Ken Paxton says brands like Colgate and Crest might be crossing the line by making toothpaste that looks and tastes like candy — which could cause kids to swallow too much fluoride.

Say Hello to the Red Bug You Had No Idea You Were Eating Regularly

You may be surprised to learn that a tiny red bug called a cochineal is responsible for the rich red dye in many Texas foods—from jams to cakes. Here's what you should know.

Real Talk: My Biggest Pet Peeve About Some Dangerous East Texas Drivers

Why are some East Texas drivers so aggressive lately? Tailgating, lane bullying, and road rage are putting lives at risk—and many locals we've talked to are fed up.

Why Young College Grads Are Struggling to Land Jobs in Texas

The job market has tightened for recent college grads in Texas, and across the U.S. Why is it happening and what does this mean for the Class of 2025?

In One Texas County, Dementia Has Touched Nearly Every Family

A deep dive into this Texas County reveals something so common there that almost every family knows someone affected. Here's why dementia is so prevalent there, and what this may reveal to us about healthcare in rural areas.

Warning From Flight Crews: Airplane Passenger Rage is On the Rise in 2025

Flight attendants say air travel is getting tougher with short-fused passengers, leading to more drama in the skies. Here's what's driving the tension.

This Is the Biggest Prison in Texas—And It’s in East Texas

Located just over an hour from Tyler, the H.H. Coffield Unit in Tennessee Colony is the largest prison in Texas, housing thousands of inmates and employing hundreds on-site.