Texas

Dawn Buckingham and Jay Kleberg vie for open land commissioner seat overseeing the Alamo and disaster relief funds

Published

2 years ago

October 12, 2022

Dawn Buckingham and Jay Kleberg vie for open land commissioner seat overseeing the Alamo and disaster relief funds

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Because the Nov. 8 midterm election nears, most eyes throughout Texas are on high-profile races similar to these for governor, lawyer basic and the Legislature. However Texas voters can even select a brand new land commissioner within the race between state Sen. Daybreak Buckingham, R-Lakeway, and Democratic conservationist Jay Kleberg.

The land commissioner heads the Texas Normal Land Workplace, the oldest public company within the state. It manages public land throughout the state and is accountable for preserving its wildlife. The GLO additionally helps fund public colleges in Texas by contributing to and dealing with the Texas Everlasting College Fund, a statewide schooling endowment value greater than $48 billion, making it the most important within the nation.

The workplace is accountable for managing and distributing pure catastrophe reduction funding, together with billions of {dollars} Congress appropriated after Hurricane Harvey in 2017, and has managed the Alamo since 2011. The land commissioner additionally chairs the Veterans Land Board, which oversees 9 veterans’ properties and 4 veterans’ cemeteries.

Voting FAQ: 2022 midterms

When is the final day to register to vote?

The deadline to register to vote within the 2022 main election is Oct. 11. Verify in case you’re registered to vote right here. If not, you’ll have to fill out and submit an software, which you’ll be able to request right here or obtain right here.
When can I vote early?

Early voting runs from Oct. 24 to Nov. 4. Voters can forged ballots at any polling location within the county the place they’re registered to vote throughout early voting. Election day is Nov. 8.
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This feature is pretty restricted in Texas. You’re allowed to vote by mail provided that: You may be 65 or older by Election Day, you’ll not be in your county for all the span of voting, together with early voting, you cite a illness or incapacity that forestalls you from voting in individual while not having private help or with out the probability of injuring your well being, you’re anticipated to provide beginning inside three weeks earlier than or after Election Day or you might be confined in jail however in any other case eligible (i.e., not convicted of a felony).
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Whereas no Texas Democrat has received statewide workplace since 1994, Kleberg had greater than twice as a lot marketing campaign money readily available than Buckingham on the finish of June, in keeping with the newest marketing campaign finance experiences from July. He had greater than $440,000 in his marketing campaign coffers, in comparison with her $206,500.

However Kleberg admits he’s dealing with an uphill battle in a state the place Republicans management all statewide places of work and each legislative chambers. Within the main runoff election in Could, round 115,000 extra individuals voted for Buckingham than voted within the Democratic runoff altogether. Kleberg has spent a lot of his marketing campaign in deep pink elements of the state, making an attempt to sway conventional GOP voters to help him based mostly on a litany of points.

“I feel that what we’re making an attempt to do is get again to a spot the place Texans elect individuals based mostly on their expertise and their {qualifications} and their being match for service,” he stated Thursday.

Buckingham’s marketing campaign didn’t reply to a number of requests for remark for this story. The Lakeway Republican has been within the Texas Senate since 2017. She has labored as a watch surgeon specializing in oculoplastics and was endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Kleberg is the previous affiliate director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Basis, a nonprofit group devoted to the stewardship and conservation of Texas’ setting and wildlife. His household owns the 825,000-acre King Ranch in Kingsville and different elements of Kleberg County.

Incumbent land commissioner George P. Bush didn’t search reelection. As an alternative, he ran for the Republican nomination for lawyer basic, dropping to embattled incumbent Ken Paxton.

After profitable the Democratic nomination in Could, Kleberg and his crew deliberate a dance corridor marketing campaign tour so he may speak with on a regular basis individuals to listen to their issues for the Normal Land Workplace. In an interview with The Texas Tribune, Kleberg stated he deliberate the 10-stop tour as “one thing that’s very Texan” and as “apolitical” as potential to achieve Texans all throughout the state and on either side of the aisle.

“The thought is to get into some communities and get into some areas and speak to individuals,” he stated in an interview on Thursday. “In Amarillo, 99% of that crowd was Republican.”

Kleberg criticized Buckingham for refusing to publicly debate him. Whereas Buckingham and her marketing campaign couldn’t be reached for remark, her social media signifies that she’s at present touring throughout the state on her “Weapons to Robes” marketing campaign tour.

Regardless of their variations, Kleberg and Buckingham have marketing campaign plans that overlap on some points. Each candidates say they need to defend and broaden the Everlasting College Fund and ensure Texas kids obtain the absolute best public schooling they will get. Each candidates publicly champion supporting and uplifting Texas’ giant inhabitants of veterans on their web sites, though Buckingham was criticized in 2016 for her ties to Nationwide American College, a for-profit establishment {that a} veterans’ group criticized as predatory.

Kleberg’s marketing campaign has centered on defending Texas wildlife and land, particularly locations most vulnerable to pure disasters or the consequences of local weather change, just like the coast.

“You’ve bought 25% of the inhabitants in Texas — you’ve bought 25% of the financial system — alongside the Texas coast, and also you’ve bought an $800 billion financial engine within the port of Houston,” he stated Thursday. “It’s our fiduciary duty as a land commissioner to spend money on coastal safety and conservation alongside the Texas coast.”

Underneath Bush, the land workplace final 12 months awarded $1 billion of federal help appropriated after Hurricane Harvey however gave none of it to the town of Houston, which skilled devastating flooding after the 2017 storm. The U.S. Division of Housing and City Growth accused Bush’s workplace of discriminating in opposition to Black and Latino Texans.

A Tribune evaluation of the spending plan for the subsequent $1.2 billion in allocations discovered that the land workplace is on monitor to as soon as once more ship a disproportionately excessive share of cash to inland counties with decrease danger of pure disasters.

“I might have made positive that fifty% of the catastrophe restoration and 50% at the least, ground, of the mitigation funding went to the Harris County area,” Kleberg stated.

Whereas Buckingham couldn’t be reached for questions, the primary marketing campaign plan listed on her web site is to “combat Biden’s inflation and decrease prices for Texas households.”

“As a doctor and enterprise proprietor, I perceive how the failed Biden financial system is hurting Texans,” Buckingham’s web site reads. “As your subsequent Land Commissioner, I’ll proceed combating for you.”

She doesn’t embody particulars on her plans to scale back inflation throughout Texas, which doesn’t typically fall below the GLO’s purview.

The administration of the Alamo has been the duty of the GLO since 2011 when it began shifting the obligation away from the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, a corporation that took care of the historic website for 120 years since 1891.

Bush confronted criticism for his involvement within the GLO’s Alamo renovation and redevelopment undertaking, particularly his protection of shifting the Cenotaph, a Nineteen Thirties monument that commemorates those that died within the 1836 battle for which the Alamo is thought.

Conservative teams argued that shifting the monument, often known as The Spirit of Sacrifice, would dilute its significance, though the planners behind the thought stated it could assist the positioning extra carefully resemble the way it initially regarded.

Bush additionally skilled scrutiny for insisting that the positioning of the Alamo deal with representing the battle of 1836. Some have urged the Alamo needs to be up to date to signify its wider historic significance, together with the function of slavery within the Texas Revolution and the Alamo’s earlier function as a Native American burial floor.

Presently, the undertaking goals to protect the Alamo Mission itself together with the Lengthy Barrack, the Alamo’s oldest construction that after housed Spanish missionaries, and to broaden the positioning by developing a museum and customer middle for vacationers who want to be taught in regards to the historical past of the Alamo.

Kleberg helps the renovations for the Alamo Mission that the San Antonio group has envisioned.

“They’ve a plan that features an archives, that features an space for schoolchildren to really sit within the shade,” he stated. “They’ve bought a brand new museum. They’ve a brand new archives. I feel there are a variety of tales to be advised, and I feel that the group has actually rallied round that.”

He additionally voiced help for updates to the scope of the historical past that the positioning of the Alamo represents, which have been the supply of controversy lately.

“I feel that there’s an amazing quantity of historical past there that goes again hundreds of years, after which there’s fashionable historical past there as properly that needs to be advised, and the plan is to inform it,” he stated. “My place is that I’m in keeping with what the group is placing collectively, and I feel that needs to be the function of the land commissioner, to be a associate. Interval.”

Buckingham doesn’t point out the Alamo or her plans for its administration on her web site.

Disclosure: Texas Normal Land Workplace has been a monetary supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan information group that’s funded partly by donations from members, foundations and company sponsors. Monetary supporters play no function within the Tribune’s journalism. Discover a full listing of them right here.

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Texas

I’ve traveled all over Texas. This small town in the Hill Country captivated me the most.

Published

1 hour ago

December 24, 2024

Press Room

I’ve traveled all over Texas. This small town in the Hill Country captivated me the most.

I arrived at the San Antonio International Airport and stepped outside to meet my ride. The dry, hot air gave me an instant flashback to my days intermittently working in the West Texas oilfield. I’ve seen quite a bit of the Lone Star State and couldn’t wait to get to Fredericksburg. I’d heard so much about this cute historical German town in the Texas Hill Country.

After an hour’s drive, the shuttle driver and my host said, “We’re on Wine Road 290.” The county has over 75 wineries, vineyards, and wine-tasting rooms. I thought, “What a perfect getaway for Texans and travelers flying into the area.”

A unique stay in a whimsical hideaway

Blue Sage No. 12

I wasn’t surprised to see the rolling hills as we drove toward the property I was staying at outside town. But I was astonished at how green this part of Texas was, especially since I was visiting at the end of the summer. I learned that Fredericksburg is home to the largest working wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms, and seeing the fields of flowers is a popular activity during the spring. People come from all over to admire the bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and red poppies.

We pulled up to Blue Sage, where I was staying, and I was instantly excited to check in to my accommodations — No. 12. The dark blue treehouse-inspired cottages looked like they belonged in a fairy tale. As I toured the inside of mine, I was awed by the warm and inviting boho decor. The loft room, with a giant soak tub overlooking the woods, was grounding, and I knew I had found a comfy weekday retreat.

After resting and freshening up from the long travel day, I met with friends to enjoy cocktails at Chase’s Place Cocktails + Kitchen in Fredericksburg’s historic district. We sipped and savored a handcrafted cocktail and a few small bites in their relaxing lounge area before heading to Hill & Vine for dinner. Known for their Southern staples, trying Texas wine and their black-eyed pea hummus was delicious.

Hike at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock on a blue sky day / Ashlee hiking the Summit Trail

In 2023, over 300,000 people visited Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. It’s a popular place for hiking, camping, and bird-watching – many migratory birds fly through.

The iconic rock feature is one billion years old, and you can hike to the top of the pink granite dome along the Summit Trail. The climb is steep, but the views of Hill Country are worth the trek.

Planning tip: Be sure to make reservations to visit the park. October through May are the busiest times of the year to explore, and parking is limited.

After hiking, we drove back into town for lunch at Hill Country Herb Garden. Their menu is curated with wellness in mind and rotates seasonally. I had a beautiful kale and quinoa salad with steak, just what my body needed after the morning’s hike. After lunch, we toured the herb gardens, gift shop, and spa — they make custom scents. There are even 14 quaint little cottages on the property you can book for lodging.

Learn about Fredericksburg’s German heritage

Outside of the Vereins Kirche Museum / Lunch at the Hill Country Herb Garden

Germans immigrated to the area in the mid-1800s after being enticed by promises of a new life. It wasn’t just Germans; Danish and Swiss settlers also made their way to Fredericksburg. You can learn more about the town’s history at the Vereins Kirche Museum and the Pioneer Museum.

You can do a self-guided tour of a historic homestead at the Pioneer Museum and see inside the buildings, including a traditional Sunday house. A Sunday house is where families that lived out of town and worked on farms and ranches would stay on the weekends so they could attend church.

After an exciting day of hiking and tours, we ended the evening with an Italian-inspired dinner at Alla Campagna. The savory Heritage Chicken Risotto and a Texas white wine were the perfect way to end the day. I couldn’t resist topping the day off with a few bites of homemade chocolate, vanilla, and pistachio gelato.

A morning of local retail therapy

Row of cowboy boots at Allens Boots / Breakfast at the Keidel Pharmacy

The following day, we drove into town and had breakfast at Keidel Pharmacy inside the new Albert Hotel (the largest hotel on the main street, opening in January 2025). I was pleased to start the day with a piece of gluten-free cinnamon coffee cake and an almond milk London Fog latte.

Afterward, I spent a few hours window shopping and checking out all the cute local stores, such as Carol Hicks Bolton, Blackchalk Home + Laundry, Allens Boots, and Flying Cow Tallow.

For lunch, we grabbed a glass of rosé and a quick salad at Standard Public House before heading to the vineyards for wine tasting.

Discover Fredericksburg’s wine scene

Wine tasting at Meierstone Vineyards / Airis’Ele Vineyards — Meierstone Vineyards / Airis’Ele Vineyards

While traveling, there is something glamorous and fun about visiting local wineries, hearing stories from the owners, and tasting wine. Our first stop was Meierstone Vineyards. Krystal Patel’s family has been making 100% Texas wine for seven generations, starting in the 1840s. I loved the white wine flight, and their 2023 Trebbiano was my favorite.

Next, we visited Airis’Ele Vineyards. Their team has over 40 years of experience in the wine business. I found their wine-tasting room welcoming, with big windows for Summer Tanager bird-watching. Their sweet Bienvenue was refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Don’t miss this family-run farmstand

Last, we headed to Das Peach Haus farmstand, which has been in business for over 50 years. The Fischer & Wieser family business sells local wines made from 100% Texas grapes, fruit jams, jellies, sauces, and other delectable artisanal goods.

Deanna Fischer, the Chief Experience Officer, shared that the company’s goal is to “Create flavorful experiences that make people happy.”

You can sample many of the farmstand’s specialty foods to select your favorites before purchasing. I appreciated that each jar provides examples of how to pair it with your next happy hour hors d’œuvre or cozy dinner at home. You can also take one of their cooking classes or have a hand-crafted cocktail at Dietz Distillery, which is next door.

It’s nice to see places like this still preserving family, food, and faith in the community.

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Texas

Where is Texas vs. Arizona? Peach Bowl game location info, details, CFP schedule

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Press Room

Where is Texas vs. Arizona? Peach Bowl game location info, details, CFP schedule

Texas football is preparing to face the champion of its old conference in the College Football Playoff, with Big 12 champion Arizona State awaiting in the Peach Bowl.

Texas was tested in the first round, defeating Clemson 34-24 behind a rejuvenated running attack led by Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner. However, the Sun Devils, winners of six straight games, also have a fierce rushing attack led by running back Cam Skattebo, who has run for 1,568 yards rushing and 22 total touchdowns.

BUY TICKETS FOR TEXAS VS. ARIZONA STATE HERE

The Peach Bowl is held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta the same site of Texas’ loss to Georgia in the Southeastern Conference championship game. The winner will advance to the Cotton Bowl, where Ohio State or Big Ten champion Oregon will await. Ohio State advanced to the quarterfinals after beating Tennessee at home, 42-17.

Here’s everything to know about the upcoming game:

Where is Texas vs Arizona State?

Texas will travel to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta to face Arizona State. It is also the location of the national championship game.

CFP Bowl locations

Peach Bowl

Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Matchup: No. 5 Texas vs. No. 4 Arizona State

Fiesta Bowl

Location: State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

Matchup: No. 3 Boise State vs. No. 6 Penn State

Sugar Bowl

Location: Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

Matchup: No. 2 Georgia vs. No. 7 Notre Dame

Rose Bowl

Location: Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

Matchup: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 1 Oregon

Texas vs. Arizona State tickets

Tickets for Texas’ game against Arizona State are available here.

CFP schedule

Playoff quarterfinals

All times in CT

Tuesday, Dec. 31

Fiesta Bowl, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 1

Peach Bowl, noon

Rose Bowl, 4 p.m.

Sugar Bowl, 7:45 p.m.

Playoff semifinals

All times in CT

Thursday, Jan. 9

Orange Bowl, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 10

Cotton Bowl, 6:30 p.m.

Playoff Championship

Monday, Jan. 20 at 6:30 p.m. CT

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Texas

Texas Longhorns vs. Arizona State Sun Devils College Football Playoff Preview

Published

17 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Press Room

Texas Longhorns vs. Arizona State Sun Devils College Football Playoff Preview

The Texas Longhorns are three games away from a national championship, and for the quarterfinal matchup against Arizona State, the Horns will travel to a familiar field.

Texas will take on the Sun Devils at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, the same venue that hosted the SEC Championship loss to Georgia.

The new opponents have a similar story to Texas: a conference newcomer that dominated the veterans.

Arizona State joined Texas’ former conference, the Big 12, and had a breakthrough season. The Sun Devils defeated Iowa State in the conference championship to take the trophy home in their maiden season.

The Sun Devils are led by redshirt freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt, a transfer from Michigan State. Leavitt has recorded 192 completions in 304 passing attempts for 24 touchdowns.

The defense is also led by a transfer player out of New Mexico State. Junior defensive back Myles Rowser has recorded 88 tackles and one sack.

Arizona State only dropped two games this season, both in conference play at Cincinnati and Texas Tech. The season record and championship clinch earned the Sun Devils the No. 4 seed in the College Football Playoff, awarding them with a bye week in the first round.

Texas, on the other hand, fell to Georgia in the championship game and dropped to the fifth seed, while the Bulldogs earned the second. But that wasn’t enough to stop the Longhorns from advancing.

The Horns had no issues defeating ACC champion Clemson in the first round at home.

Texas and Arizona State will face each other on New Year’s Day for a spot in the semifinals.

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