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Tag: ATX

2019 Governor’s Inauguration

Makayla Mason

It was a chilly morning as we left our hotel to walk two blocks to the Capitol. As we walked towards the capitol building, our excitement began to grow as we saw the stage with the giant Texas flag above it and the rows of chairs filled with programs.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

We arrived early, so we were able to find seats and take pictures of everyone getting ready for the big event.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

We noticed the security precautions for the event such as many State Troopers, drones, and snipers in buildings above.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

As government officials and everyday civilians began to fill the north side of the Capitol, the ceremony, formally known as the Oath of Office Ceremony, commenced.

The announcer introduced Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick along with their families, and these elected officials walked through an arch of swords to their seats.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

We were led the Pledge of Allegiance by a Boy Scouts troop and as they finished…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

we were treated to a military flyover.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, following an introduction by Senators Jane Nelson (R) and John Whitmire (D),

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, John Whitmire, Jane Nelson

…was the first to take the oath conducted by Appeals Court Justice Don Willett.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

After he was sworn in, he gave a speech that included the introduction of “his personal security” for the event, Chuck Norris!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris

Patrick struck a note of bi-partisanship and unity.  Following his introduction by a Democrat and Republican, he introduced House Speaker Dennis Bonnen whom, in an “unprecedented” move, he called to the dais to join him.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick

He then went on to lay out his agenda for the session….

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Chuck Norris

…which included stressing increasing teacher pay, re-structuring school finance, and reducing property taxes.  While some of the crowd impatiently chanted “build the wall” and others got lost in the policy details…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,

…the crowd was mostly appreciative.

Then it was time for Governor Abbott to take the oath, and he was sworn in by Nathan Hecht, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,

After Governor Abbott finished swearing in, his family provided hugs,

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,, Audrey Abbott

…and cannons boomed a 19-gun salute (in the US, only Presidents or other heads-of-state receive the 21-gun salute) and the crowd cheered.

Abbott struck a theme of “In Texas, anything is possible”….

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…and delivered a well-received speech.  The band played…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,

…and Abbott’s, friends, family, and Speaker Dennis Bonnen congratulated the Governor on a job well done.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,, Dennis Bonnen

And with that, Speaker Bonnen gaveled the session adjourned.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,, Speaker Dennis Bonnen

The ceremony came to a close and we were able to take pictures with the current Sam Houston students who are interning at the Capitol, including two LEAP Ambassadors.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick,, SHAIP, Sam Houston Austin Internship Program, Maggie Denena, Anne Jamarik, Brittany Gibson, Jezel Luna, Mackenzie Smith, Peyton Reed, Monica Dike, Yvana Kepnga, Jordan Davis, Karen Tinajero, Ilexus Williams, Victoria McClendon-Leggett, Makayla Mason

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on January 18, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Capitol, Dan Patrick, Governor Inauguration, Greg Abbott, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Sam Houston Austin Internship Program, SHAIP, SHSULeave a comment on 2019 Governor’s Inauguration

A Full Day in Austin

 For Day two of our LEAP Retreat, we began with brunch at the Russian House, an authentic Russian Restaurant in downtown Austin.  The name “Russian House” is very fitting for the restaurant.  When we were seated at our table, it genuinely felt like we were having brunch in someone’s home.  There were family photos lining the walls, chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, small decorative knick-knacks on various shelves, and there was even a mini-fireplace.

For many of us, it was our first time experiencing Russian food.  With the goal of being culturally diverse, everyone kept an open mind and diverged from ordering dishes with which we were already familiar.  To ease our way into this experience, we started with Cheburek, which is a crescent-moon shaped dough filled with meat and herbs.  Next, was the group’s favorite: the stuff mushroom.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Russian House

This was a grilled Portobello Mushroom covered in gorgonzola cheese, salted cucumber, and fried onion.  Lastly, we tried the Pogrebok, which consisted of an assortment of pickled vegetables, pork belly, boiled potatoes, sauerkraut, herring, and scallions.  This was our least favorite.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Russian House

 

And this was just in preparation of our main meals!  Our meals consisted of Potato Zrazy…

 

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Russian House

…which includes fried potato rolls; the Manty, which are large dumplings stuffed with lamb;

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Russian House

…and the Golubtsy, which includes cabbage rolls stuffed with beef, portk, and rice.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Russian House

After stuffing ourselves, we reflected a bit on our meals.  Although we were somewhat daunted by trying new food, we enjoyed our meals, learned much that was new (Russians like sour cream with almost everything!), and enjoyed further exploring Austin.

Next, we decided to further explore Austin by visiting the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, which is named for Texas’s 38th Lieutenant Governor.  The Museum opened in 2001, and it captures more than 2,500 years of Texas history.

As we walked inside, we were greeted by a quote on the wall by Sam Houston, declaring his love for Texas.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

After taking a photo, we began our journey through time with exhibits that explore the pre-contact phase of Texas history.

We enjoyed the exhibits, which covered much that students are already familiar with, such as the conquistadors, Stephen F. Austin and the settlement of Texas, and the Alamo.

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But we also saw some brand new things.  One of the paintings on Texas history, for example, was “Marching to the Massacre,” and it was painted by none other than Andrew Jackson Houston, Sam Houston’s son.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

And speaking of paintings, the Museum had a special exhibit on collectibles, which included a painting of Abraham Lincoln, called “Melancholy Lincoln.”  It was a fine painting, but what made it unusual is that it was painted by Dwight D. Eisenhower.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

It is also energizing to learn about the role that Sam Houston played in the Civil War; specifically, his decision not to take an oath to the confederacy.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

As we ascended the floors, we learned more about the history of modern day Texas, such as the importance that oil has played in the state’s development, the state’s role in the space race, and a special exhibit titled “Rodeo,” which showcased the history of rodeo in Texas.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

We had a lot of fun pretending to be in a rodeo…

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To mark our time in the Museum, we took some LEAPing photos in front of the giant Lone Star.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History

To finish a full day in Austin, we headed to “Rowing Dock,” the LEAP Ambassador’s favorite kayaking spot in Austin.  But for four of us, it was actually our first time to kayak, and we did it in 48-degree weather!

At first, we struggled to get our bearings, and we remained very concerned about tipping over into the frigid water.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

The double kayaks rent for about $20 for an hour, which was only $10 per person. It took us, however, about an hour and a half to do our four-mile trip, which was to the second set of Austin bridges.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

Once we reached our goal, we paused and balanced in our kayaks for a quick selfie with the Austin skyline as our backdrop.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

The view was beautiful.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

Going back was a little more difficult, because it involves rowing upstream.

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But we were warming up from the effort…

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

…and the beauty of the sunset made it a pleasant journey.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Austin Texas, ATX, Kayaking

To warm up a bit more and to decompress after exercise, we went to “Quacks” on 43rd Street, where we enjoyed coffee, tea, and cupcakes.

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Quacks is our favorite local bakery in Austin, and while we enjoyed all the cupcakes, the Gingerbread was the best!  It was a nice cap to a long and productive day, and it left us energized for some traveling on day three of our Austin adventure.

​

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on January 17, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, Fun, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Bob Bullock, Kayaking, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Quacks, Russian House, SHSULeave a comment on A Full Day in Austin

ATX: Inaugural Version

Victoria McClendon-Leggett

After we arrived in Austin on Saturday, a couple of us stayed at the hotel and used the time to get some work done, while Makayla–who had never been to Austin–used the time to explore Austin and its grounds.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, ATX, Texas Capitol, Governor's Inauguration, Makayla Mason

She posed for photos, while also exploring the art exhibit on gun violence in the Capitol Building.

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After a bit of downtime, we met Ilexus and Jezel, the two LEAP Ambassadors currently interning in Austin, and we decided on dinner at CAVA, a Mediterranean restaurant with build-your-own grain bowls, pitas, and salads.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, ATX, Texas Capitol, Governor's Inauguration, Ilexus Williams

Everyone was able to find something they liked there, while also trying something different.  The black lentils and falafel were especially delicious additions to our bowls, and we were also able to sample the interesting-sounding beet lemonade that proved to be quite refreshing.

After dinner at CAVA, we stopped by The Coffeehouse at Caroline Restaurant for a pick-me-up and also to have something to warm our hands on during the chilly walk back to the hotel.  We got a little experimental and tried matcha green tee lattes, white blueberry teas, while other, less-adventurous folks settled for their white mochas.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, ATX, Texas Capitol, Governor's Inauguration, Makayla Mason

Armed with these refreshments, we made our way back to our hotel, to commence a “retreat,” where we planned not only for the remainder of our trip, but also for the semester.

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on January 17, 2019Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, FoodTags ATX, Governor's Inauguration, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Texas CapitolLeave a comment on ATX: Inaugural Version

Austin and Internships

The Texas legislature only meets once every two years, and some feel that “no man or beast is safe when the legislature is in session.”  But for a select group of SHSU students, the legislative session poses the opportunity for a Sam Houston Austin Internship.

Day 1:

Thus it was that five students embarked to Austin early this week, with the hopes of landing an internship in a legislative office. The students were some of the 30-plus students who applied for the SHAIP Internships, and approximately half of those selected to interview in Austin.

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships

In all ten students were selected to interview with eleven offices.  Two of these students have already been placed; three more are coming later this week; and the five of us are hoping for the best.

Our schedule is grueling but rewarding: up before 6am, dressed in suits, and a schedule of four interviews, each lasting two hours. It was a day of stress, but you wouldn’t know by the happy smiles we wore as we arrived at the Texas Capitol…

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships

The end to the day’s interviews brought on a sense of contentment and relief, and we were smiled up again as we toured the Capitol building.

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships

As the afternoon gave way to the evening, we met with SHAIP alumni (Christina Perez and Ariel Leaf) at The Clay Pit for a fabulous dinner.  For most of us, it was the first time to try various dishes…

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…but we did a great job of coming close to finishing things and being adventurous.  And  we also tried to wisely use our time with Christina and Ariel; learning as much about the process as possible.  By the end of the evening, we felt more comfortable about the internship logistics and also felt we had made new friends!

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships

With additional interviews scheduled for the next day, we returned to the hotel, prepared to study and sleep.

Day 2:

The second day was a bit more eventful.  There were fewer interviews, so the students with the later interviews had the special opportunity to tour the Texas State University System’s new headquarters in O. Henry Hall.

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships, TSUS, O Henry Hall

The building is beautiful!  Built between 1877-1881, the structure was designed by architect James Hill–whose work is notably diverse–and he managed to make this a unique structure in the City of Austin.  Construction occurred under the supervision of Abner Cook, who also designed the Governor’s Mansion and was the Director of TDCJ during its early years. It was designed as a courthouse and post office.

Its name derives from the fact that O. Henry (William Sydney Porter) was tried in this building in 1898 for embezzlement.  O’Henry was convicted, and he spent time in jail.  But today the building, his nearby home, and dozens of short story extend his legacy.

The building’s interior is as impressive as its exterior.  With Vice-Chancellor Sean Cunningham as a tour guide…

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships, TSUS, O Henry Hall, Sean Cunningham

…we had many chances to explore.

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships, TSUS, O Henry Hall

A highlight was meeting many of the staff, such as Candice Woodruff, Pierce Mitchell, and Chancellor Brian McCall.  Indeed, Cunningham and McCall agreed to a photo with us, and two of us had the chance to stand with replicas of Sam Houston’s cane!

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships, TSUS, O Henry Hall

The tour was informative and enlightening, and it helped us feel more a part of a larger process.  It was also a great way to occupy our minds while our afternoon interviews awaited.  We were grateful that the TSUS office thought of us, and appreciative we were at a University and a System where students can receive this type of support.

The afternoon brought an end to our interviews, and we headed back to Huntsville.  A final wave of students will interview later this week, and placements should be made over the weekend or, at the latest, Monday.  Until then, we will be grateful for the opportunity and reflect on all that we have learned and experienced!

SHSU, LEAP, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHAIP, Austin Texas, ATX, Internships, TSUS, O Henry Hall

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on November 2, 2018Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, Law, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Internships, LEAP, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHAIP, SHSULeave a comment on Austin and Internships

Wrapping up the Texas Tribune Festival

After three days attending the Texas Tribune Festival, LEAP students prepared themselves for a somewhat relaxed day of learning about art.  But first, the crew headed out for lunch at the New World Deli.

Lunch at New World Deli – Ilexus Williams

After getting to sleep in a bit after a long weekend traversing the Festival, we started our last half-day in Austin with brunch at New World Deli. We were greeted by friendly staff, and all ordered various soups and sandwiches. Among the many dishes ordered, a common one was the Broccoli and Cheese soup, which everyone agreed was scrumptious!

The sandwiches that we ordered weren’t the only things grilled at the table; Professor Yawn questioned each of us in turn about our favorite activities of the trip. First, we were asked to reflect on our favorite Texas Tribune panels, which included “Education Reform That Makes the Grade,” “From Deployment to Employment,” to “The Consequences of Gun Violence.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Gun Violence, Austin Texas, ATX

Then we were asked which speaker we enjoyed hearing from the most. The answers ranged from Beto O’Rourke and Eva Guzman to Wendy Davis. Next, we all tried to distinguish our favorite group activity. However, no one could choose between Mr. Arredondo’s art studio…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Daniel Arredondo

and the Segway tour!

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

Both were unique and unforgettable experiences in their own regard.

After finishing our meals, we ordered a smorgasbord of sweet treats. We finished out our time at the New World Deli with brownies, chocolate cake, gluten free cookies, and key lime pie. After indulging in dessert, we made our way to our last stop: The Blanton Museum of Art.

The Blanton Museum of Art – Elena Castillo

At the Blanton Museum of Art…SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX

…we were taken back to a time when art was a catalyst of revolution and change. Today we wandered through centuries of historic change from different cultures and societies. As we walked through The Blanton Museum of Art each piece held a different message. We saw many pieces by many of LEAP’s favorite artists such as Thomas Hart Benton…

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, Thomas Hart Benton

….Ellsworth Kelly…

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX

…George Segal…

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, George Segal

…and Andy Warhol.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, Andy Warhol

My personal favorite was one of the pieces from the Carl & Marilynn Thomas collection known as “La Muerte de San Jose,” which translates to “The Death of Saint Joseph.” This piece was filled with many colors that blended so smoothly together that it was hard to understand where the focal point was but it was clear that the painting represented something important. It also added to the reality of Saint Joseph’s death, from the angels above his body, to his pale skin, and finally by Jesus placing a final blessing on him as he dies.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX

I was so captivated that I didn’t realize the rest of the group had continued on to the next exhibit and had to catch up!

Another favorite among the group was a piece by Cildo Meireles. It is a contemplative space that is meant to symbolize the Jesuit oppression of the indigenous Tupi-Guarani peoples of Brazil during colonial times.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX

The installation uses a line of 800 communion wafers that is strung from a ceiling made of 200 cattle bones and hangs down and connects to the floor which is strewn with around 600,000 pennies. The entire piece is shrouded in black gauzy fabric which is meant to represent life and death. The string of wafers connecting the bones and coins symbolizes the connection that spiritual power had between the suffering of the indigenous peoples and material wealth that resulted from their colonization.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX

After meandering all the way through the museum, it was time to explore “Austin” which is perhaps more well known simply as the Ellsworth Kelly chapel. As it is relatively empty, we only spent a short while taking it in.

The different designs of stained-glass windows at each of the three different ends of the chapel cast different colors on all the walls inside.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, Ellsworth Kelly

The Kelly pieces were beautiful, with each wing of the chapel showing off the art in a different way.

 

 

 

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, Ellsworth Kelly

…and being just right for photographs.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin Texas, ATX, Ellsworth Kelly

For many, this was our first time to the Blanton Museum, and for a couple it was our first trip to an art museum ever. We learned so much during this weekend, and were grateful for the opportunity to visit our state’s capital and learn and experience so many new things there. Until next time, Austin!

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 22, 2018Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, Civil Rights, Food, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Blanton Museum of Art, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Ellsworth Kelly, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Texas Tribune FestivalLeave a comment on Wrapping up the Texas Tribune Festival

A Festival Fiesta: Fun at the Texas Tribune Festival

Our third day in Austin promised to be a busy one.  With panels on the agenda, plus our regular retinue of meals, and a keystone speech with Beto O’Rourke, we were hoping for a climactic day at the Texas Tribune Festival.

From Deployment to Employment Panel – Elena Castillo

The struggle of going from serving the nation to becoming a civilian in the nation is something that goes unnoticed by many. Today we heard from a panel of speakers talk about the different programs available to help veterans adjust to civilian life.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival

We heard the perspectives of Jodey Arrington, a U.S. Representative for Texas’s 19th district, Paul Reickhoff, founder and CEO of a veteran’s support group, Ruth Ruggero Hughs, chairwoman of the Texas Workforce Commission, and Richard Delgado, director of Military Affairs at Texas A&M – San Antonio.  Each panel member began by briefly discussing the fact that many veterans are left underemployed and how that overall affects the mental health and adjustment process of each veteran.

“Babies, puppies, and vets,” these are the things that people seem to love. According to Rieckhoff veterans are underemployed not because they do not have the skills required for a job, but because they are seen like by businesses as more of an investment. In the beginning, it takes time for veterans to readjust but once they do, they benefit their employers.  He also says that many times politicians use veterans’ issues as a ploy to gain more voters but that ultimately nothing has really changed in order to help veterans adjust to civilian life. The panel was so informative and we were able to take so much from it! We were so glad we picked it!

The Consequences of Gun Violence Panel – Ilexus Williams

While a couple of us were at the Deployment to Employment panel, the rest of us attended The Consequences of Gun Violence panel. It opened with a brief speech from Evan Smith, the CEO, and co-founder of The Texas Tribune.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival

Mr. Smith stressed how this panel was one of the most important conversations that would be discussed during the festival. He stated, “This is not just a policy issue, but a human issue.” He warned us that the discussion would be approached from a human perspective, not solely on policy. The panel included Chris Grady, a survivor of the Parkland, Florida shooting, Suzanna Gratia Hupp, former State Representative and survivor of the 1991 Luby’s Killeen shooting, Frank Pomeroy, pastor of First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs and survivor of the Sutherland Springs mass shooting that also claimed the life of his fourteen year old daughter, and Nicole Hockley, the mother of a Sandy Hook School shooting victim and founder of Sandy Hook Promise.

Collectively, the panelists agreed that grief is different for everyone. Pomeroy emphasized that the tragic events that they all experienced do not define them, but are forever a part of who they are. He stated that his community continues to seek hope and will continue to give God the glory despite their tribulations. Hockley’s aftermath experience was different. She did not know what change was needed, but she was adamant that some form of action had to be taken. Eventually, Hockley went on to found a non-profit organization: Sandy Hook Promise. This organization strives to educate the public about at-risk behavior in individuals in the hope that future mass shootings will be avoided. Following the Parkland shooting, After his experience, Grady became involved in the fight for gun control laws. He is a strong supporter of the March for Our Lives and Never Again movements. He expressed that we must take personal action through civic engagement. Grady stated, “You can’t complain if you don’t do anything. Voting is important, especially for the youth.” Different from the rest, Hupp was filled with rage after her experience. Her rage was not aimed at the shooter, but rather at her legislators. She stated that she was angry with the laws at the time because the gun that she owned was in her car and completely useless to her. Later, as a U.S. representative, Hupp fought for the right to carry a concealed weapon.

At a time when gun violence seems like a normal part of life, Hockley stated that “it rips the scab off of my heart all over again when a shooting occurs.” She encouraged us to stay optimistic about our futures and the future of gun control. Even though the topic was heavy, it was a favorite of many on this trip. The panelists exuded such courage and hope for the future, and we wish them the best in their healing and the fight for their cause.

The State of Texas Music

After the panel on gun violence and a quick Starbucks pick-me-up, we headed over to a tent on Congress Avenue, in the pouring rain.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Music

The reason for doing so was to see Joe Lanane from the Community Impact Newspaper interview Brendon Anthony who is the Director of the Texas Music Office.  Anthony has previously traveled the world playing his own music and is now focused on supporting up-and-coming music artists in Texas.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Music

He explained to the audience that the Texas Music Office is run under the office of the Texas Governor Greg Abbott and that the goal of the TMO is to attract the music industry to foster the economic development of Texas music businesses and musicians. Unfortunately, Anthony says that they do remain one of the frequent targets of the Texas legislature, but he remains confident that they are able to demonstrate the importance of keeping the music industry thriving in Texas, and especially in Austin where the music and the musicians themselves are so important to the community.

Bethany McLean Redux

One of the highlights for us was the opportunity to see Bethany McLean for the second time in approximately two weeks.  It was nice to note that she recognized us!

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean

…and we each spent a little time with her getting books signed.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean
SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean
SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean
SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean
SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean
SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean

And we couldn’t resist asking for another group photo, which she happily obliged.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Bethany McLean

1968 Panel – Jezel Luna

Could you believe that one of the most influential political years was 50 years ago? Today we attended a panel of diverse speakers including: Chris Matthews, author and host of MSNBC’s “Hardball with Chris Matthews,” Lawrence O’Donnell, author and host of MSNBC’s “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” President LBJ’s daughter Luci Baines Johnson, and Sam Houston alumnus, legendary news anchor Dan Rather.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Chris Matthews, Dan Rather, Luci Baines Johnson

The panelists all attested to the “electricity” that filled the air during the time, as nearly all young men faced the draft, and were terrified that they would never return home if they left. Luci Johnson spent her allotted time setting the record straight about her father; she reminded the audience that her father never wanted to go to war and that he suffered greatly both physically and mentally during this time. No one during the sixties and seventies was keeping silent, and this is what the panelists say is wrong with American youth today. The common consensus was that millennials are not passionate about anything. People from that time period remember protesting on their college campuses for a number of good causes.  “Stand up to your parents,” was the advice the panelists gave to the youth of today when asked.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Dan Rather, Chris Matthews, Luci Baines Johnson

After the panel concluded Luci Baines graciously took a moment to pose for a picture with a few of us, even as nervous Tribune Festival volunteers attempted to usher her away from the crowds.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Luci Baines Johnson

One on One with Beto O’Rourke

As our last event of the day, we attended the closing keynote for The Texas Tribune Festival. The event was held in an auditorium in The Long Center for the Performing Arts. Immediately after the keynote was over Beto was due to appear with Willie Nelson on a stage across the lawn, and outside the Center was jam-packed with people waiting in anticipation.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Willie Nelson

We headed inside and found seats in the auditorium before it got too crowded.

​Congressman O’Rourke was interviewed on stage by Evan Smith, the moderator or questioner.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Beto O'Rourke, Evan Smith

Mr. Smith brought up Congressman’s DWI, and Beto’s stances on a number of topics like the legalization of marijuana, healthcare, and immigration. Congressman O’Rourke answered questions in a way that delighted almost all of the crowd.

Congressman O’Rourke emphasized his belief in giving the youth more attention in politics and media, promised to keep the people of Texas as his number one concern once elected.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Texas Tribune Festival, Beto O'Rourke, Evan Smith

O’Rourke compared the American Judicial system to a modern-day equivalent to  Jim crow laws, which in turn inhibited the rights of minorities in society.  The closing keynote enabled us to learn more about the issues at stake in the upcoming election, so we were grateful that we were able to attend. The crowd was enthused by Beto, and we are all looking forward to what happens come election day November 6th.

Dinner at Jack Allen’s

For the end of our evening, we had dinner at an Austin favorite, but one that is a restaurant we had not been to: Jack Allen’s.  We tried diverse food, with red chili fries, pimento cheese dip, guacamole (the only guac we’ve had that included pumpkin seeds) and chips and salsa.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Jack Allens

For the meal, we continued our diverse “comfort food” theme, with tacos, burgers, mac and cheese (with five cheeses)…

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Jack Allen's, Austin Texas, ATX

…and chicken and pasta.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Center, Jack Allen's, Austin Texas, ATX

The food was top-notch, the service was excellent, and the ambience was acceptable.  It was a comforting and delicious end to an interesting and exhausting day.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Austin Texas, ATX

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 21, 2018Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, Fun, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Jack Allen's, Law Engagement And Center, LEAP Center, SHSU, Texas Tribune Festival1 Comment on A Festival Fiesta: Fun at the Texas Tribune Festival

The Politics and Art of Austin, Texas: Day Two of the Texas Tribune Festival

Gender, Power, and Leadership 

Our first stop of the day was The Omni Hotel to attend the “Gender, Power and Leadership” panel with Former State Senator Wendy Davis, Texas Supreme Court Justice Eva Guzman, Baylor University President Linda Livingstone, and State Representative Senfronia Thompson.

The panel was held in a cool room called the Capital Factory filled with colorful sculptures and a few giant bean bag chairs in one corner!  The crowd applauded as the four prestigious women walked out and were seated.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

Although the panel was moderated, Wendy Davis got the lion’s share of the speaking time, at times seeming to recreate her famous 2013 filibuster on the Senate floor.  Representative Thompson was also outspoken, although less voluble, and Justice Guzman and President Livingstone were more reserved.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

​The four panelists were very engaging. They discussed various topics such as sexual harassment, the treatment of women in the workplace, and other hot topics (such as the Kavanaugh hearings).

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman, Wendy Davis, Senfronia Thompson, Eva Guzman

The audience had the opportunity to ask the panelists a few questions, and then after the panel was finished we had the pleasure of a very brief meeting with Representative Thompson.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

Two of our students even had the opportunity to meet Justice Eva Guzman, which was a special treat, since many of our students had a chance to meet her when she came to SHSU in 2017.

Lunch with Emily Johnson – Ilexus Williams

After being empowered by the phenomenal women at the Gender, Power, and Leadership panel, the LEAP students headed to The Clay Pit, which is a contemporary Indian restaurant located in downtown Austin.  For many of the students, it was our first encounter with Indian food.

When we arrived, Emily Johnson, a former LEAP Ambassador joined us for lunch. Mrs. Johnson currently works for the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission as a Policy Analyst. The Texas Sunset Advisory Commission works to assess the extent to which an agency is needed, is working effectively, and is efficiently utilizing its resources.

Mrs. Johnson expressed that the biggest challenge of her job is working with the legislature. As a policy analyst, it is not Mrs. Johnson’s job to take a side of a position. She must be nonpartisan and be an honest broker.

As we enjoyed chatting with her, we also enjoyed Naan, a traditional Indian flatbread which the restaurant had stuffed with different fillings. These fillings included garlic and herb, three cheese, and jalapeno and cream cheese.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, The Clay Pit

It was common consensus that the jalapeno cream cheese was the favorite at the table. Most of us decided to grab our food from the lunch buffet, but a few opted to order dishes from the menu.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, The Clay Pit

While we sat enjoying our Indian cuisine, the prospective Austin interns were able to receive valuable advice from Mrs. Johnson about the lessons that she learned during her time as an intern in the Sam Houston Austin Internship Program. She encouraged students who are selected as interns to use every opportunity available in their office to learn because “knowledge is power.” She urged us to use any free time to attend committee meetings, and she stressed the importance of asking questions. After saying farewell to Mrs. Johnson we parted ways and headed out to a suite of art galleries in East Austin.

Daniel Arredondo’s Art Studio – Jezel Luna

Full of delicious Indian food, we made our way to one of Austin’s many local art studios where we had the pleasure of meeting Daniel Arredondo, a passionate, cheerful, and talented local artist.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Daniel Arredondo

His small studio is housed in the same building as the Flatbed Gallery. He introduced himself and thoroughly explained many of the techniques he uses and how they create different effects that really make his paintings come alive.

https://flatbedpress.com/

Personally, one of my favorites was a painting that was made in loving memory of his father-in-law who recently passed away. I could feel the passion and love being expressed in the work, and I was able to make my own connection with it.   He believes that the picture should have two names, the one that the artist gives it and the other for the client to give it. Before we left, Mr Arredondo gave us each a heartfelt gift to remember him by, and our professor bought several of his pieces.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Daniel Arredondo

We thanked him profusely and meandered around the rest of the galleries seeing the work of many other different artists.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Flatbed Press

Their works, like Mr. Arredondos’ left us captivated and with a higher level of respect for their talent in making something special from nothing.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Flatbed Press

Education Reform That Makes the Grade – Elena Castillo

As the panel started we could sense the tension building as the education reform discussion progressed, and we soon realized we had the front row for the cat show!  The laughter of the crowd, the different opinions of the panel, and the catty comments added to the intensity of the panel.

Each panelist was given the opportunity to express their opinion on why they believe public schools are or are not working. Disagreements were made on public schools versus charter schools, and quality and equality for all children’s education was questioned and debated. The biggest point that was brought up was that families do not have the ability to pick the “right school” for their children, and what our education system might look like if they did.

Flash back to “White only days,” the days when schools were segregated by the color of your skin. This is a reality that was thought to have been left behind, but today we heard different from Robert Enlow, President and CEO of EdChoice. In the panel for Education Reform we heard his thoughts on how public schools still seem to be segregated, if not by law, then at least by fact. We heard about the different early college programs in high schools in Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex from panelist Todd Williams. In this panel, tensions were high between State Representative Gina Hinojosa and Co-founder of Steinhouser Strategies, Randan Steinauser. They disagreed on whether charter schools should be allowed to disqualify certain students to attend their schools and whether or not that made them a “public” school. The stakes for better education are high, but whether education reformers will ever begin to make strides forward for better education is the question we are left asking.

Affairs of State: The US And its World Relations

One of most timely and intriguing panels involved three ambassadors: Ryan Crocker (who was Ambassador to six different countries, and who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service); Wendy Sherman (a social worker, founding director of Fannie Mae, and high-ranking official in the Department of State under President Obama); and Bill Richardson (former Governor of New Mexico, Secretary of Energy, and Ambassador to the UN).

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

Sherman proved the most partisan of the bunch, but all of the diplomats expressed concern over the State Department under President Trump.  Crocker was the most balanced and insightful, although not without his own zingers.  When asked whether President Trump “pulled the rug out from under Secretary Tillerson,” for example, he said: “Yes. We all cheered when it happened. We only wished he would have pulled it out from under him when he was at the top of the stairs.”

Sherman, who sometimes drifted into comments about Brett Kavanaugh, was also critical of Tillerson, noting that his engineering background did not help him with his diplomatic mission: “He thought he could check boxes to achieve a desired end, without putting in the necessary personal relationships.”

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

Richardson, whose experience is broader than the other two panelists, had the least to say, but he did share an amusing if alarming story of how he got his job as Secretary of Energy.  President Clinton called him and said, “Bill, I need you to be Secretary of Energy.”  Richardson replied, “But I don’t know much about Energy policy,” to which Clinton replied, “That’s okay.  You’re Hispanic, and I need another Hispanic in the Cabinet.”

Ambassador Crocker ended on a wise but depressing note, suggesting that while nothing the Trump team has done is “irrevocable,” “it will take a long time to get back to where we should be.”  Crocker mentioned the huge personnel cuts in State Department, which largely slashed the non-political career diplomats who serve both parties.  He also pointed out that some of the negative changes, morale problems, and weakening of the State Department began under the Obama administration, when little or no action was taken to developments in the Middle East (particularly in Syria and Pakistan)–a point also mentioned in Bob Woodward’s “Fear.”

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

As might be expected, the panel prompted many audience members to ask questions, no doubt spurred by the importance of the US’s changing role in the world.

Austin Segway Tour 

After a full day at Texas Tribune Festival panels and Daniel Arredondo’s art gallery, we found ourselves at Nation Tours right in front of the capitol building. It was 5pm, and time for some fun of the two-wheeled kind!

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

After signing liability waivers and receiving a rather brief tutorial which covered how to turn, stop, and park, we all hopped on our Segways…

Segway_5_Monica_Web
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

…and were zooming around the city. Our tour guide Robbie took us through the capitol grounds and the surrounding downtown area.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We found out that Segways are street legal when Robbie nonchalantly took off into traffic and then motioned for us to follow.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We managed to avoid any collisions with cars, and had a lot of fun…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

…although at least one Ambassador had a fall and another had a Segway with a mind of its own!

We also learned a few things from our tour guide Robbie along the way. The capitol building wasn’t always the enormous building that it was.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

The first was originally about the size of a corner store! We also passed the statue of Angelina Eberly, and learned that without her, Austin might not be our state capital today. In 1842 when Sam Houston sent troops to remove Texas’s archives so that a new state capital could be established elsewhere, Eberly fired a cannonball and alerted the town that the theft was occurring. Robbie also took us by the Austin City Library, which looks nothing like a library at all. We learned from him that it even has a coffee shop and a bar inside.

Our last stop of the tour was right in front of the governor’s mansion, which we learned was partially destroyed in an arson fire in 2008 when a hooded man walked up to the front door and threw a Molotov cocktail at it.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We also made a quick stop by the Texas Main Street Office.  As fans of (and regular volunteers for) Huntsville Main Street, we were happy to see where the program began.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours, Texas Main Street

The nice weather that had held up for us during our tour began to falter, and we parked our borrowed Segways and headed home after learning more about our state’s capital.​

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 4, 2018October 4, 2018Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, Food, Fun, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Sam Houston State University, Segway Tours, SHSULeave a comment on The Politics and Art of Austin, Texas: Day Two of the Texas Tribune Festival

Austin, Texas: A Capitol Experience

In 2013, President Dana Hoyt initiated the Sam Houston Austin Internship Program (SHAIP).  Since that time, SHSU students have interned in the Texas Legislature for three consecutive legislation sessions, and several students are determined to ensure that the Bearkat streak is extended to four sessions.  To that end, four of the students attending the Texas Tribune Festival squeezed in interviews on Thursday.  The interviews were of the extended variety, with the legislative offices fitting in office work such as writing, bill analysis, phone skills, learning office equipment, and basic knowledge assessment.  In one case, the interview was 2.5 hours!

 While final placements are still weeks away, this opportunity gave the students an early taste of what professional interviews entail.  The extended nature of the interviews also allowed the students—and the offices—to assess the potential of personality fits between office and intern.  It’s a different process than many universities use, but SHAIP offers both the intern and office staff the opportunity to ensure that their time and energy are invested in the best possible fit.

 For several of the students involved in the interviews, the nervousness of interviewing was layered with the intrigue of their very first visit to the state capitol.  

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

Visiting the capitol is always an interesting experience; it’s a special treat, though, when your very first time to approach the Capitol is to interview for a job there.  Thus for Monica Dike, Jezel Luna, and Maggie Denena, the day’s experience was especially memorable.

But, of course, even repeat visitors—such as Victoria McClendon-Leggett, Ilexus Williams, and Brianna Sabrsula—have fun touring the state’s capitol building….

 SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

___________________________________________________________________________

 We entered through the exceptionally tall wooden doors of the Texas capitol and submitted to the usual metal detectors and bag searches that accompany trips to important government buildings. After everyone was given the okay to enter, we walked across the foyer to a statue of our university’s namesake, Sam Houston. It and a statue of Stephen F. Austin both stand and greet visitors and capitol employees every day just inside the south entrance to the capitol building.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

The two statues were unveiled in the capitol in 1903, and were completed by famous Texas sculptor and Austin resident Elizabet Ney.

Also in the entrance to the capitol there is hung a rather large painting depicting the capture of Santa Anna after the battle of San Jacinto. Our excellent tour guide—Professor Yawn, forced in to duty—pointed out that in the painting General Sam Houston’s right leg is bandaged, while in reality it was his left leg that was injured in the skirmish. We lingered in the south foyer for just a few more moments before we moved on to the piece de resistance, the rotunda.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas
The rotunda is both beautiful and intimidating, with its intricate gilded trim rising 266 feet above the floor. On each floor immediately surrounding the dome, along the walls are hung portraits of former governors, in chronological order starting with the oldest at the top and winding their way down towards the most recent.

We were able to peek into both the House and Senate chambers, which we had all to ourselves because the next legislative session does not start until January 8, 2019. W

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

e also visited the rooms which once housed the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

Before we left, we also had the opportunity to explore the library, which contains thousands of books, law journals, and House Bills passed during the former legislative sessions. We also had a nice surprise: we ran into a friend of SHSU and the LEAP Center, Chief Justice Tom Gray.  Justice Gray was in the building on business, but he stopped to talk to us…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

…to say “hi” to familiar faces (Victoria) and to greet new ones (everyone else!).  The LEAP Ambassadors have long worked with him on bringing the 10th Court of Appeals to SHSU each spring, and it was a nice treat to see him again.

The Texas State Capitol is such a beautiful building with a rich history that matches that of our state, and it was crazy to think that some among us would soon be working there!

 SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas

____________________________________________

Kerbey Lane Café, Monica Dike

 After leaving the capitol, those of us that weren’t still interviewing had lunch at the Kerbey Lane Café. A couple of us had never heard of the place, but it’s a favorite among the LEAPsters that have gone there before. When we walked in, the host greeted us with a bright smile and a clever shirt stating: “Don’t go bacon my heart,” which we chuckled at. Once seated, I noticed that the menu contained a variety of options for lunch and even an all-day breakfast. As an appetizer we all shared the chips and queso and tried the roasted brussels sprouts. I wasn’t sure how well I would like the brussels sprouts, but once they came out and I tried them, I found them absolutely delicious!

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Kerbey Lane Cafe

I ordered a cheeseburger, which I thought would be a pretty simple meal, but when it arrived, it was twice as big as I expected!  It was delicious, although I couldn’t possibly eat it all.  Victoria and Stephanie had chili and cornbread, Brianna had breakfast tacos, and Elena–our least adventurous eater–had chicken.  All enjoyed their meal, and we left content we can return anytime for delicious fare.

___________________________________________________________________________

Texas Tribune Festival and Secretary John Kerry.

Trying to find parking in a large city Austin is very much like trying to find a needle in a haystack! After a bit of roaming around in an attempt to find a parking garage within walking distance, we made our way over a block or two to The Moody Theater to hear The Texas Tribune’s opening keynote speaker, former Secretary of State John Kerry. We walked down the sidewalk and around to the entrance of ACL Live where we spotted Austin’s favorite musician Willie Nelson—albeit in statue form.

We quickly found our seats as the The Texas Tribune’s editor-in-chief and also our moderator for the evening, Evan Smith, began introducing Kerry.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry 

The questions flowed smoothly as John Kerry was asked about current events and current scandals.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

Kerry’s experience and knowledge were impressive, and he discussed  them with a depth we can hope to achieve one day. John Kerry acknowledged that we should be concerned for the future in some areas like climate change, but also suggested that we needed to make changes happen today.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

Kerry was very insightful as he discussed his reasons for writing his autobiography “Every Day Is Extra.” Kerry himself called it a detailed book communicating all his accomplishments from the beginning, as well as why he believes our democracy is broken today. When asked if he was considering running for President in 2020, he refused to give the audience a direct answer, instead choosing to “neither confirm nor deny” whether he was considering it or not. Smith pressed him on this issue, and Kerry pressed back, refusing to respond. (Disappointingly, that was actually the only issue that Smith pressed Kerry on.)

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

There was also a section for audience questions, which alternated between interesting and redundant.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

The interview soon came to close–with a call to get out and vote!  But the evening was not over.

One of our very own, Victoria, got the opportunity to briefly meet the former secretary as he signed her book.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

And even that did not end the evening.  Victoria ran into the moderator Evan Smith, where she had a chance to discuss things…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

 …and got a photo…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Texas Tribune Festival, Texas Capital, ATX, Austin Texas, Evan Smith, John Kerry

And with that, the event concluded, as did our first day of The Texas Tribune Festival.

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 1, 2018Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, Fun, Jobs, Law, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Evan Smith, John Kerry, LEAP Center, Sam Houston State University, SHSU, Texas Capital, Texas Tribune FestivalLeave a comment on Austin, Texas: A Capitol Experience

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