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Tag: Greg Abbott

Civics 101: Gubernatorial Inauguration 2023

Continuing our pursuit of understanding Texas history and politics, we embarked on Tuesday, January 17 to the Texas Capitol to experience the gubernatorial inauguration. We arrived on the north side of the capitol building at around 9:15, which allowed us to secure spots to stand. 

2023 Gubernatorial Inauguration

We started the morning by taking some photos and enjoying the view of the capitol building from our vantage point.

Meanwhile, Jessica Cuevas took photos from a closer vantage point, and Professor Yawn was perched in the media gallery.

There was, understandably, a heavy police presence for the event. There were State Troopers, police dogs, and even snipers viewing the inauguration atop an adjacent building.

At 11, the inauguration promptly began with the pledge of allegiance and the singing of The National Anthem by the two-time Grammy Award winner: Tanya Tucker, followed by introductions of such notables as Lee Majors.

Preluding the event, the nationally recognized Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band performed several songs including “Noble Men of Kyle,” and “Patton Theme.” The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band is a military-style marching band and is the largest of its kind in the nation.

After an impressive introduction, we witnessed the inauguration of both Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Governor Greg Abbott. Following this, each addressed the crowd with a speech that outlined each politician’s agenda for the upcoming legislative session.

Although there were notable differences in their speeches, both the Lieutenant Governor and Governor expressed their shared intentions to lower taxes, increase border security, and boost the Texas economy. 

One thing that I personally enjoyed about the event was the diverse religious representation within the program. In all, we heard from three different religious figures: a Jewish rabbi, a Catholic bishop, and a Christian pastor.

After the ceremony, we were serenaded with more musical performances from the Texas A&M Singing Cadets and the University of Texas Longhorn Band who performed a beautiful rendition of “Yellow Rose of Texas”.

Following the formal inauguration, we gathered with the SHAIP interns, some alumni who are now in staff positions (including three Chiefs of Staffs), and even the President of Sam Houston State University!

All in all, attending this event allowed me to enrich my conceptual understanding of governmental proceedings by adding an experiential aspect to my knowledge. The richness of the environment, with drones, helicopters, protests of sorts, and similar scenes were unlike anything I had ever seen.

Although I have learned so much in the classroom, nothing can replace participation in events such as these.

Event: Media Relations

There is nothing like a surprise call from the media to concentrate a student’s mind. So, when Professor Yawn told us that KBTX had called and wanted to do a Zoom call, we were a bit nervous. What would we say? How should we sit? What questions would they ask us?

We soon found out. Tyler Hoskins from KBTX led the interview, and Lexi Gonzalez, Chief of Staff for Rep. Hubert Vo, was gracious enough to let us use her office for the interview!

The interview helped us reflect on the unique experience we have had, and also teach us a thing or two about speaking in complete thoughts short enough to be used on television. You can watch the whole video here

Event: Taste of Texas  

Following the gubernatorial inauguration, LEAP students attended A Taste of Texas Lunch on Capitol grounds, where multiple restaurants from across the state showcase some of their most popular (and Texas-themed) dishes to inauguration attendees. Upon arrival at the event, we were immediately overwhelmed at the options available.

To get the most out of the experience, we split up to try different dishes.

Elaine and I headed straight to the Western Sky Steakhouse booth, where we were met with a delicious plate of steak and potatoes. 

Other entrees we tried were the Country Line sausage and potato salad plate which Andrew described as a good mixture of “sweet and salty… with a little kick.” Olivia on the other hand had a Mongolian pork sausage with a side of potato salad. She described it as a “very fresh and light” dish.

While eating, the University of Houston Mariachi Band caught the crowd’s attention with their vibrant set. Cinthia Villareal and I appreciated the liveliness of the performance on such a formal event, and even got swept into a Conga Line!

This was a great way for the LEAP students to expand their palate and get a taste of Texas! 

Event: Supreme Court Building

After attending the Taste of Texas, we walked over to the Clark Building, which houses the Supreme Court of Texas, to receive a tour from Justice Boyd. Upon arriving, we were greeted by the Director of Public Affairs, Amy Starnes, who gave insight into the history of the building. One of the things she shared with us was that the Supreme Court consisted of only 3 Justices until the people voted to expand the court to 9 Justices in 1945. She also pointed out former Justice Ruby Sondock’s portrait, the first permanent female Justice.

Upon Justice Boyd’s arrival, he reminisced about visiting the Sam Houston campus in 2017 and stated that LEAP is the “model program” for civic engagement in the State of Texas. He then shared some background to his life, first revealing that he got his undergraduate degree in Biblical Studies and was a youth minister in his young adult life.

While some may assume this degree isn’t beneficial to a law student, it was quite the opposite. Working to interpret scripture and applying it to the kids he was teaching every Sunday morning proved to help in interpreting the law and applying it to the cases he was working on. So, when his college roommate called and encouraged him to take an LSAT with him based on a conversation they had during their freshman year, he was well prepared.

In this same spirit, he gave us a piece of advice: Take the LSAT. Prepare as best you can, which is tough because the LSAT tests how you think, not what you know. Even if you are not sure you are interested in becoming a lawyer, you should just take it. You may bomb it, but at least you will know.

In fact, when he took his LSAT, he only told his wife, so that if he did in fact bomb it, only she would know. Then, he went further to say, to be noticed by those in power, “Be known from the beginning and every day thereafter as a problem solver.”

He then went on his path to Texas Supreme Court Justice. About 5-6 years into Justice Boyd practicing law, he became interested in becoming a judge, and in 1998, a seat had opened that the governor was going to need to fill. In a conversation with former Chief Justice John Cornyn, he told Justice Boyd:

1. If you apply, you are not going to get appointed;

2. If I am wrong, you are going to work your tail off for a year and a half and then not get re-elected, and;

3. Absolutely, you should apply because you are a young lawyer interested in public service.

Although he did not get the position in 1998, when John Cornyn was elected as Attorney General, he hired Justice Boyd as Deputy for Civil Litigation. Later, he worked on a case for Rick Perry, who hired him to do more legal work for him as well, which eventually led to him being his General Council.

Although Justice Boyd was not sure if he would enjoy working with former Governor Rick Perry, he explained that he grew to like and appreciate him. “If he walked in, you would love him,” he exclaimed. Next, he described how Rick Perry appointing him came as a shock to him, and how when he expressed his concerns about finances and politics, Rick Perry answered, “Jeff, God’s going to take care of the money, and I’m going to take care of the politics.”

Following this, Justice Boyd took us back to the robing room where all the Justices meet before Court and explained that this was a room where they talked about the weather or sports, ate breakfast, and even played pranks on their newest member from time to time.

He then showed us the closet where the robes were and explained that they were arranged by seniority.

We had the privilege to rank ourselves in seniority and march into the court…

Following this, we went to the Justice’s conference room where they discuss how they will rule on cases. While there, Director of Public Affairs, Amy Starnes explained that the walls were lined with chairs because the Justices allowed their law clerks to sit in on these conferences, which she believes makes them better lawyers. When asked why there was a portrait of former Justice Few Brewster, she smiled and said that it had been put there as a joke when Justice Devine was elected, as the two look remarkably similar.

After seeing two elected officials get inaugurated into office, it was an incredible opportunity to speak and learn from another elected official in power. As a part of our democracy tour, it is important to understand that the government is a multifaceted system in which each position plays a key role in policymaking. Thank you to Justice Boyd for the wonderful opportunity to speak with the LEAP students!

Event: Better Half

After a long day of exploring and touring the Capitol building, the LEAP students ended the day with dinner at a local restaurant, Better Half. For appetizers, we ordered some chips and queso and cauliflower tots. The chips and queso had a flavorful touch of chili powder that added an appealing look. The cauliflower tots were new to a lot of students at the table, but we enjoyed them more than we had anticipated.

For our entrees, we had a large variety of mixed flavors that included hot chicken sandwiches, chicken burgers, soba noodle soup, broiled halloumi, and crispy pork belly. Overall, the restaurant experience was great, and the food was “very robust in flavor” according to MaryBeth.

The restaurant had an impressive drink menu which piqued our interest. The lemonade, cinnamon cardamom latte, and a hibiscus tea were delicious!

With the sharing of stories and laughter at the dinner table, we ended another successful day in Austin.

Author mikeyawnPosted on January 20, 2023January 20, 2023Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, Politics, TravelTags Austin, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Dan Patrick, Greg Abbott, Gubernatorial Inauguration, Justice Jeff Boyd, LEAP Center, Sam Houston State University, SHAIPLeave a comment on Civics 101: Gubernatorial Inauguration 2023

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

Day One: Big D and the GOP

Ever since we attended the Walker County Republican Convention, we had been hearing many anecdotes from previous State delegates about the State Convention, and not all of the stories were good.  So we were equal parts excited and anxious to see what the 2016 Republican State Convention would be like in person.

Part I: Parliamentary Training (Brian Aldaco)

The Convention is able, in theory, to flow smoothly because it is governed by Robert’s Rules of Order, and we began the convention attending the parliamentary procedure training provided by Richard Hayes, the Parliamentarian. The procedure is used often enough that this training would benefit us tremendously in other situations. The Parliamentarian led the training and gave us a sheet to help us follow along. This sheet was extremely helpful, but it was his personality that made the training interesting.

Richard_Hayes_Parliamentarian_2_Web

We got helpful tips to make sure the meetings ran efficiently and we learned that the goal is to have an efficient meeting by focusing on the substance instead of parliamentary maneuvers, which often just serve to delay the proceedings. It was fairly obvious that, even before the convention had officially commenced, that Hayes was anticipating dilatory tactics and his anticipatory frustration was manifest in his suggestions.  At one point, Professor Yawn leaned over and said, “I’m going to have him explain my syllabus to my classes from now on.”

After learning the basics of how the Convention will work, we had a break to spend wandering through the exhibit hall. There we were able to buy GOP pins and other Republican memorabilia. The exhibit hall was also filled with information booths of different candidates aside from the Presidential race, making for a fun tour, followed by our arrival at the large hall for our first general session.

Part II: The Session (Alex Galvan)

We weren’t sure what to expect of the session, but we were grateful to have many delegates there looking out for us.  Thomas Leeper, Stephanie Fors, Mike Yawn, Kara Veinotte, Cynthia Prehoda, Richard Yawn, Dorothy Yawn, Gerald Skidmore, Bobby Gardner, Micah Slaughter, Tore Fossum, Larry Hughes, Leah Boyd, Chad Byrd, Kay Deahl, and Judy Emmett were all on hand to explain things, laugh with us, and sometimes cringe with us.  The day held much promise.

We began the session with a prayer, an exuberant national anthem–including the rarely heard 2nd verse–and the pledge of allegiance to the American and Texas flags. After the opening ceremony the session began with a brief overview of convention affairs by the Republican Party of Texas Chairman Tom Mechler. These affairs included various delegate seating issues, which were quickly resolved by the delegate’s votes. Even though I am unable to vote as I am attending as a guest, it was still insightful to look into these procedures. In this case the cooperation in delegate participation and Chairman efficiency proved for a speedy process that allowed for the rest of the session to continue.

Part III: The Speakers (Karla Rosales)

After the Chairman’s proceedings, we all enjoyed a passionate discourse delivered by our state’s Governor Gregg Abbott. In his speech he voiced his opinion on how he believes the nation’s political spirit ought to be shaped, a message received with enthusiasm.

Abbott_Speaking_1_Web

This was most noticeable when Governor Abbot received standing ovations at passionate moments in his speech. Similarly, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker of the House Joe Straus, Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, and Land Commissioner George P. Bush also joined the stage for their remarks.

Dan_Patrick_Speaking_1_Web

All of the enthusiasm from the moving speeches made us look forward to discussing our thoughts over our upcoming lunch break.

Before we sped off to lunch, Alex was caught by a Univision news crew for a quick interview.

Alex_Television_Web

Alex expertly fielded questions on topics ranging from Hispanic support for Donald Trump to the direction of the party, this burgeoning barrister’s fifteen minutes of fame ended, and we all headed to Cindi’s New York Deli for lunch.

Part IV: The Break and Senatorial Caucus (Kaitlyn Tyra)

Cindi’s New York Deli that offered classics like reubens, pastramis, and other sandwiches for lunch. We all ordered different meals, some more adventurous than others. Brian ordered a beef tongue sandwich and Karla and Kaitlyn stuck to what they knew and ordered a regular turkey and ham sandwich. During lunch we had a great time discussing and comparing the most outrageous outfits and signs at the convention…

Sign_1_Web

…and our new experiences thus far.

After lunch we were ready for our first Senatorial District Caucus Meeting, where all the delegates from Senatorial District 5 (Senator Charles Schwertner’s District) met to elect representatives to the Permanent State Committees. Not only would we elect representatives, but we also were privileged to meet with members of the Texas Legislature such as Representative Larry Gonzales and his Chief of Staff, Chris Sanchez….

Larry_Gonzalez_Students_Web

…and Senator Schwertner…

Schwertner_Speaking_1_Web
…and his Chief of Staff, Tom Holloway.

Tom_Holloway_Studentrs_1_Web

Speaking with both Chiefs of Staff offered helpful advice as we prepare to interview for the Austin Internship Program beginning in the next legislative session. During our Senatorial District Caucus Meeting we were assembled by counties and began by electing a Chairman to lead the caucus. Immediately following, we nominated and voted on our appointments for the Rules Committee, Platform Committee, and Credentials Committee. Electing representatives from each senate district in Texas ensures that we have representation in each procedural and policy area–people we trust to represent our views at the state level.

Part V: Random Sightings (Mike Yawn)

As rare as it is to meet with state-wide elected officials, we saw something even more rare.  Yes, we saw Ryan Brim working!

Ryan_Working_Web

At first, we thought our eyes were deceiving us, and that it might perhaps be an urban legend of some sort, something akin to a sighting of bigfoot…

index…but, no, Ryan had obtained a job as Page at the convention (thank you Linda McKenzie!), and he had various tasks such as posting contradictory signs to confuse bewildered delegates.

Part VI: Wrapping Up (Megan Chapa)

After a quick break and stroll to the opposite side of the convention center, we gathered for our first Congressional District Caucus Meeting. The Congressional District Caucus Meeting elects representatives to National Committees. Interestingly enough, in this meeting it took longer for people to find their seats than it actually took to vote!  The short meeting was a plus, because after a long day of labor and lawmaking, we were ready for the southern food of Ellen’s.

The newly renovated restaurant was homely and offered a variety of traditional southern plates and breakfast options. The group experimented with salads, breakfast steaks, shrimp and grits, and chicken fried steak.  The restaurant had just moved locations and the service was a bit rocky (menus please!), but we all enjoyed the food. We also enjoyed the interesting conversation about the day’s events at the 2016 Republican Convention.

Thomas Leeper, First Assistant City Attorney for Bryan TX, joined us and shared with us some of his favorite legal books, advice on law school, and a few of his law-school and career experiences.

With dinner complete, we headed back to the Omni, hoping to walk off some of the food.  On the way, we stopped at one of Dallas’s civic engagement spots: one of the Big D signs posted around town.  Promoting the town logo of “The Big D”, the City has put up signs around town with a giant “B” and “G,” with a space in between.  This space is designed to be filled by citizens, turning “i” into the City–Big D.  And that’s what we did.

Big_D_Students_Web

But that was our only stop, because our destination included an ice-cream social by Senator Lois Kolkhorst and one of her staff members, Matthew Russell.

Kolkhorst_Students_1_Web

It was great talking with a wonderful leader within the party and state. Many of her constituents were present and she made time to talk with all of them. It definitely showed us the importance of being a leader and maintaining strong relationships with constituents.

Kolkhorst_Students_2_Web

After a long day, all of us were exhausted but also excited to watch another convention day unfold. We have learned so much and have met and watched many great leaders. We hope to take what we have learned back to our communities!

End_Of_Night_Web

Alex, Megan, Kaitlyn, Karla, and Brian would like to thank all of the Walker County Republicans who voted them as delegates and who have welcomed them to the Convention.  This trip was self-funded and was not subsidized by either SHSU or the LEAP Center.

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on May 13, 2016May 14, 2016Categories Civic Engagement, Fun, Politics, TravelTags GOP, Greg Abbott, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Texas Republican Convention 2016Leave a comment on Day One: Big D and the GOP

LEAP Center in Austin–2.0: 2015 Governor’s Inauguration

We left the hotel this morning excited to be attending the historic inauguration of Greg Abbot and Dan Patrick. For it being our first inauguration, we were fortunate to get some of the best seats, right behind the VIP section. Standing for hours before the event…

LEAP_Center_Students_Inauguration

…we had the opportunity to watch the audience fill in, witness anxious news reporters parade around, and get views of snazzy Texan attire.

LEAP_Center_Students_Crowd

The festivities helped put us in the political spirit, with an F-16 flyover, the UT band playing patriotic songs, and a choir performing Texas-themed music.  Karla Rosales, one of our freshmen members, was also interviewed for television!

Karla_Rosales_Interview

We watched as Dan Patrick and his wife strutted under the swords and across the stage, to a solid round of applause. Governor-elect Greg Abbot and his family, however, received resounding applause, and the crowd—and the candidates—were ready.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick was sworn in by his son, Judge Ryan Patrick. Prior to his speech, he greeted the crowd with a selfie, and vowed that every day would be a “New Day in Texas”…

Patrick_Selfie

…while also suggesting he would be the “best Lieutenant Governor ever.”

Patrick_Speaking

Governor Abbot’s inaugural speech was preceded by a 21-cannon salute, and the cannons had a loud, percussive effect. Our cameras shook. Abbott focused on his family and inclusion, stating that “Family everything,” and congratulating his wife on being the first Latina First Lady. Abbott discussed his injuries, which resulted from an accident some thirty years ago, and gave thanks go God and the upward-mobility culture of Texas for his ability to rise to Governor.

Abbott_Speaking_6

The inauguration was followed by a BBQ on the front lawn. Being a Texas BBQ, it was big—with helpings for 17,000. We ate picnic style in front of our state’s capitol building—what a tale for our kids one day.

LEAP_Center_Students_Inauguration_5

After enjoying the Inaugural Barbecue lunch, we headed into the Capitol building for a quick tour. Awed by the architecture of the building, we noted how intricate many of the details were, such as the door hinges and the ornate wooden molding. We traveled up one of the historic staircases to the second floor to enter the House of Representatives and then the Senate. Since the legislature was not in session today due to the Governor’s Inauguration, visitors were able to admire the chambers.

LEAP_Center_Students_House_Gallery

We also searched among the Governor’s portraits in the rotunda, finding our favorites (Sam Houston, of course!). We also visited the courtroom where the Texas Supreme Court met until 1959 when the Supreme Court moved to a building of its own near the capitol.

We took the opportunity of conveniently being at the Capitol during legislative session to visit some of the legislative interns from Sam Houston. We visited the office of the second-longest serving member of the Texas legislature (Rep. Senfronia Thompson), where Jessica Rodriguez is interning. We also visited Lexi Gonzales in Representative Armando “Mando” Martinez’s office, and stopped by to Melva Gomez and Sadie McLaughlin in Representative John Otto’s office.

Melva_Gomez_LEAP_Center_Students

We also stopped by to see Ariel Traub, but she was hobnobbing at the Inaugural Parade, but we were fortunate to get a tour of the office by Senator Charles Schwertner himself! Very personable and friendly, Senator Schwertner was a great person to end our tour of the Texas Capitol and such an awe-inspiring day.

Schwertner_LEAP_Center_Students_3

We left the Capitol, sadly, to head back to Sam Houston and Huntsville. On the way out of town we had the chance to stop at Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery. There we re-caffeinated for the drive home and enjoyed some delicious treats, such as their Raspberry Tart and Ginger Crinkle cookies. We then embarked on the three-hour drive home, reminiscing about our fast-paced trip to the Capitol and looking forward to our chances of maybe representing Sam Houston as interns on the hill one day soon.

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on January 24, 2015Categories Civic Engagement, Law, Politics, TravelTags BBQ, Dan Patrick, Greg Abbott, LEAP Center, Selfie, SHSU, Texas Capitol, Texas Governor, Texas Governor's InaugurationLeave a comment on LEAP Center in Austin–2.0: 2015 Governor’s Inauguration

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  • SHAIP Speaker Series January 28, 2023
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