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Texas lawmakers warned of

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Texas lawmakers warned of


The Texas Department of Public Safety warned state legislators of a “credible threat” against them during Saturday’s “No Kings” protest at the state capitol building in downtown Austin.

The Texas State Capitol and grounds were evacuated at 1 p.m. local time Saturday due to the threat and remain temporarily closed. Texas DPS said that the evacuation was out of an abundance of caution. No further details were provided. 

“Just today, a credible threat was made to possibly kill members of the Texas Legislature at the Capitol,” Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said in a post on X. “Death threats are sadly a part of serving in public life today.” 

Patrick called on the public to remain cautious and to “heed the warning of the Texas DPS until the threat is no longer active.”

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The protest at the Texas Capitol was scheduled for 5 p.m., according to the “No Kings” website. It was not immediately clear if the event would continue.  

While such threats are not often discussed, Patrick said the state handles many each month. He noted that most come from individuals who “go too far in their emails or calls,” and that they frequently retract their statements when confronted, insisting they didn’t intend harm. Still, he stressed that “all have to be taken seriously.”

Patrick highlighted the need to differentiate between acceptable discourse and unlawful threats.

“There’s a difference between free speech complaints, which we welcome, and making death threats,” Patrick said in his statement. “The latter can be a crime.”

Minnesota lawmakers targeted

The bulletin to legislators also mentioned the targeted attacks against two lawmakers in Minnesota. State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed, and state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were wounded in politically-motivated shootings overnight, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said Saturday morning.

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A manhunt is underway for the suspect, who remains at large. 

“Currently, it seems to be an isolated incident. However, we’re always concerned about copycats and those who this attack might inspire. Your safety is our top priority, and we are taking all necessary precautions to address any potential threats,” the bulletin said.

“What happened today in Minnesota was an absolute criminal act and a tragic loss of life,” Patrick said in his statement. “Our prayers go out to those in Minnesota.”

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Austin, TX

Crews respond to grass fire near I-35 in Kyle, roads closed in the area

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Crews respond to grass fire near I-35 in Kyle, roads closed in the area


Crews are responding to a grass fire near I-35 in Kyle, according to officials.

Kyle Fire Department and Kyle Police Department units responded to a grass fire near the southbound Exit 210 off I-35.

ALSO | Travis County extends burn ban for unincorporated areas amid dry conditions

Police closed Exit 210 and Center Street at the intersection of the southbound I-35 frontage road as crews worked the scene.

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Authorities urged drivers to avoid the area, expect smoke and increased emergency traffic, and use alternate routes while crews worked to contain the fire.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.



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Austin, TX

Austin Airport Announces Opening of Checkpoint 4

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Austin Airport Announces Opening of Checkpoint 4


The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport just announced that Checkpoint 4 is finally open for general screening. Here’s what that means for upcoming travel plans.

The airport revealed the news in a Monday afternoon social media post. “Checkpoint 4 is now open at AUS for general screening,” the post reads. “Head to the far west side of the terminal for faster, easier access to gates 22 and up.”

AUS called the news “another step toward a more comfortable airport experience.” Travelers can find directions to Checkpoint 4 on the airport’s online map. It’s near popular concessions Vino Vino, Tacodeli, and Antone’s.

The airport also posted on Friday an alert about a detour that will run from Feb. 24-25, 11 p.m.-7 a.m. During that time, there will be an overnight roadway closure due to Yellow Garage construction.

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Note that rental car returns and rideshare/taxi pickups should use the Red Garage entrance. Rideshare, taxi, and rental car pickup locations will be the same. Drivers should follow all detour signage and staff directions.

The airport is currently working on a multi-billion dollar expansion project that will allow it to keep up with regional growth and routinely shattered passenger records. Last year, the airport served a total of 21.6 million arriving and departing passengers, and added four new nonstop destinations and 21 new nonstop services.

Eventually, the expansion project will result in 32 new airline gates, a new concourse, Concourse A redevelopment, expanded airline ticket counters, new amenities, a larger baggage claim hall, a centralized TSA security checkpoint, and a mobility lounge.

If approved by City Council, the expansion project cost could rise to over $5 billion as the scope continues to be refined.





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Downtown Austin Alliance debuts free parking pilot program

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Downtown Austin Alliance debuts free parking pilot program


Get ready to park it. Over the next 10 weeks, patrons at participating Downtown businesses will be eligible to receive free or discounted parking as part of the Downtown Patron Parking Pilot.

The partnership between the Downtown Austin Alliance and Austin Convention Center is meant to boost accessibility to nearby businesses during the convention center’s redevelopment.

Visitors will be able to receive two hours free (or discounted parking for longer visits) at Second Street Garage and Fifth Street Garage all day Sunday-Thursday and until 4 p.m. Friday + Saturday.

Participating businesses include Antone’s Nightclub, Revolución, Nica on 4th, El Cockfight, Elephant Room, The Creek and The Cave, HokkaiSan, Skipjack Oyster, Speakeasy Austin, and Sunset Strip Comedy Club. See the full list.

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