Connect with us

Austin, TX

Texas version of DOGE got to work at Capitol

Published

on

Texas version of DOGE got to work at Capitol


The Texas version of DOGE got to work on Wednesday. The Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency was created by House Speaker Dustin Burrows.

It is modeled after the controversial federal team led by Elon Musk.

Advertisement

What is the Texas DOGE program?

What they’re saying:

The House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency (DOGE) got underway Wednesday with a promise from Committee Chairman Giovanni Capriglione.

Advertisement

“For too long, government inefficiency has been tolerated, accepted and ignored. That ends now,” said Chairman Capriglione (R) Southlake.

This Texas twist on the federal DOGE program is similar in name to the one led by Elon Musk. But the chairman denied it was a political copycat.

Advertisement

“This is going to be different. This is, as I say, everything in Texas, a little bit bigger and a little bit better. And that’s what we’ll be doing here in this committee will be looking at using scalpels, and we’ll also be able to look at sledgehammers,” said Chairman Capriglione.

Chairman Capriglione was asked if there is waste in the Texas government. Did he think the state has been mismanaged for the past 20 years by Republican leaders? 

“It hasn’t, but we only meet every two years. So, this is an opportunity for us to go and look at what’s been done over the last two years and possibly longer,” said Chairman Capriglione.

Advertisement

Dig deeper:

The committee’s initial focus on Wednesday was on the state’s IT department, the newly formed Space Commission, and even the Sunset Advisory Commission.

Advertisement

Committee member Tony Tinderholt (R) Arlington asked the Executive Director of the Sunset Advisory Commission, Eric Beverly, how often the organization determines that an agency should be eliminated. 

“I can tell you that we have just, in the last 12 years, recommended abolishing eight different agencies,” said Beverly. 

Most state agencies not only go through a Sunset review, all go through a review during the Legislative Budget process. Despite that, Chairman Capriglione does not believe his committee is redundant.

Advertisement

“You always need an independent a third party, if you will, to go and look at what’s been done and what’s going on. And that’s what this committee is going to do,” said Chairman Capriglione.

During the hearing, committee member Ana-Maria Rodriguez Ramos indicated House Democrats will embrace being part of the Texas DOGE.

Advertisement

“I would love to learn more about exploring waste, fraud, and abuse under Operation Lonestar and I hope that, you know, our legislature would really be committed to transparency there, knowing how much we’ve spent billions and billions over the past few years,” said Rep. Rodriguez Ramos (D) Richardson.

The Texas DOGE committee will not issue pink slips. But members are expected to make recommendations about staffing and file legislative reforms that could reassign staff.

“We’re going to go and point out wherever we see inefficiencies. Right. And so, obviously, that goes to each individual agency to decide. But we already have bills that are coming to our committee that are going to talk about how to make sure that what people want and the services they need align with the resources that we’re putting into it,” said Chairman Capriglione.

Advertisement

Local perspective:

There is the potential for scoring political points beyond Operation Lone Star, according to Brian Smith with St. Edwards University.

Advertisement

“Democrats might be able to make something of this,” said Smith.

High-profile cuts, according to Smith, may be more difficult to accomplish.

“Everybody’s going to justify their program under the Dome as being very efficient,” said Smith.

Advertisement

Smith also noted that Texas runs a lean budget unlike the federal budget. Chairman Capriglione is confident reforms can be made.

“The goal of this is to make sure that the government’s working for the taxpayers, not the other way around,” said Chairman Capriglione.

Advertisement

What’s next:

The state has almost 270,000 different rules and regulations on the books. 

Based on the hearing on Wednesday, it appears the committee’s initial focus may be on that, as well as contracts and property management, rather than the state workforce.

Advertisement

The Source: Information from the Texas legislative session

Texas PoliticsAustin



Source link

Advertisement

Austin, TX

Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal

Published

on

Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal


Updated: Sunday, January 4, 2026

Jump To: Full-Service | Affordable | Group 

As the new year approaches, many Austinites are setting fresh fitness goals and rethinking their workout routines. Austin’s gym scene continues to evolve in 2026, offering everything from luxury athletic clubs to no-frills strength gyms and high-energy group fitness studios.

Advertisement

Whether you’re training for performance, looking for community, or simply trying to stay consistent, these gyms in Austin stand out for their programming, facilities, and overall value.


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our articles on the Healthy Food Cedar Park, Healthy Food Round Rock, and Healthy Food in Austin!


Full-Service Gyms

Life Time 

fitness centers in Austin - Life Time Austin North

Image credit: Life Time Austin North

Life Time is ideal for those who want a premium, all-in-one fitness experience. Members have access to expansive workout floors, boutique-style classes, pools, recovery amenities, and family-friendly programming.

Advertisement

Where: 1301 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm | Monday – Friday 4:00 am – 11:00 pm


Gold’s Gym

Gold’s Gym remains a staple for strength training and general fitness in Austin. With multiple locations, members benefit from large free-weight areas, machines, group classes, and personal training options.

Where: 13435 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 9:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 11:00 pm


Hyde Park Gym

Hyde Park Gym is a longtime favorite among serious lifters in Austin. Known for its old-school atmosphere, it prioritizes heavy lifting, strength equipment, and a focused training environment.

Where: 4125 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78751
Operating Hours: Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm | Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Advertisement

Affordable & Budget-Friendly Gyms

Korrect Fitness

best gyms in Austin TX - Korrect Fitnessbest gyms in Austin TX - Korrect Fitness

Image credit: Korrect Fitness

Korrect Fitness is a premier 10,000-square-foot training facility in South Austin that specializes in functional performance through small group conditioning, unconventional equipment like steel maces and kettlebells, and elite recovery amenities including cold plunges and saunas.

Where: 4401 Freidrich Ln, Unit 301, Austin, TX 78744
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 9:00 pm


Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is best for beginners or anyone looking for a low-pressure, affordable gym membership. The gym focuses on cardio equipment, circuit training, and a welcoming environment.

Where: 1807 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748
Operating Hours: 24/7

Advertisement

Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness offers 24-hour access and smaller gym footprints, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. It’s a solid choice for members who value consistency and flexibility.

Where: 8516 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78729
Operating Hours: 24/7


FeV Iron Vault Gym

gyms in Austin - FeV - Iron Vault Gymgyms in Austin - FeV - Iron Vault Gym

Image credit: FeV – Iron Vault Gym

Iron Vault Gym caters to powerlifters, bodybuilders, and experienced strength athletes. The gym emphasizes high-quality equipment and a no-frills approach to training.

Where: 2101 W. Ben White BLVD #105, Back of building facing Redd St, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Monday = Friday 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

Advertisement

Group Fitness & Specialty Studios

Orangetheory

Orangetheory delivers coach-led group workouts combining cardio, rowing, and strength intervals. The structured format appeals to members who want accountability and efficient, results-driven sessions.

Where: 401 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm | Monday – Thursday 5:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday 5:00 am – 6:00 pm


F45 Training

F45 focuses on fast-paced functional training in a group setting. Daily workout variations keep classes engaging, making it popular with members who enjoy high-energy, team-based fitness.

Where: 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Sunday 9:30 am – 11:15 am | Monday – Thursday 5:30 am – 7:15 pm | Friday 5:30 am – 6:15 pm


Big Tex Gym

gyms in Austin - Big Tex Gymgyms in Austin - Big Tex Gym

Image credit: Big Tex Gym

Advertisement

Big Tex Gym is a veteran-owned, old-school strength sanctuary in North Austin that provides 24/7 access to specialized equipment for powerlifting, bodybuilding, and strongman training within a supportive community atmosphere.

Where: 1921 Cedar Bend Dr A 130, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: 24/7


Many gyms offer free trials or seasonal promotions at the start of the year, making January an ideal time to explore. And once you’ve locked in your workouts, you can also check out our weekend guide of activities and events!

Lacey MorrisLacey Morris
Latest posts by Lacey Morris (see all)





Source link

Continue Reading

Austin, TX

Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County

Published

on

Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County


Accident or crime scene cordon tape, police line do not cross. via Getty Images

A juvenile has been arrested Saturday after an early morning double-homicide near Round Rock. 

The situation ended after officials successfully negotiated a barricade situation with the minor, they say. 

Advertisement

Williamson County double-homicide

What we know:

Williamson County authorities got the shooting call around 2 a.m. from the 8900 block of Brushy Gate Cove, outside the Round Rock city limits. 

Advertisement

Williamson County sheriff’s deputies found two men dead of gunshot wounds at the scene. The suspect was barricaded inside a bedroom in the home. 

Williamson County SWAT and crisis negotiators responded, and the suspect peacefully surrendered around 6:30 a.m.

Advertisement

Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public. 

Williamson County officials comment

What they’re saying:

Advertisement

“On our arrival, we found two deceased people from the residence, adult males,” said Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. 

“Anytime you have a barricaded subject inside of a home where we believe two people are deceased, you know, we’re going to take all precautionary measures that we can to ensure our safety and the safety of the neighbors as well,” said Foster. 

Investigators say everyone involved resided in the house and that this was an isolated incident. 

Advertisement

“Information is going to be very limited, because this is a juvenile investigation, and certain laws protect certain information regarding juveniles,” said Foster. 

What we don’t know:

The identity of the minor suspect has not been released. 

Advertisement

The victims were not identified. 

The motive behind the shooting has not been commented on. 

Advertisement

The Source: Information in this article came from the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. 

Williamson CountyCrime and Public Safety



Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Austin, TX

Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility

Published

on

Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility


Samsung is taking steps to provide Apple with image sensors built with advanced technology for iPhones. Reportedly, the sensors for the iPhone will be manufactured in Samsung’s current Austin, Texas facility, and the company is anticipated to soon have production equipment installed for the upcoming project.

The image sensor of the iPhone is expected to have a three-stack design for better low-light performance and a higher density of pixels with multiple layers stacked vertically. This results in less power consumption, a dynamic range that’s higher, and faster speeds for readouts.

Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility

It’s believed that the new sensor will be made for the upcoming iPhone 18 in 2027. Apple and Samsung have reportedly arrived at a deal where Samsung will be supplying the component for the sensor. This marks the first occasion Apple will be going with another company apart from Sony as their main supplier for image sensors for its iPhones.




Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending