Good Morning! On this day in 1912, future Texas Gov. Preston Smith was born in Williamson County. He served in the Texas House and Senate before being elected lieutenant governor in 1962 and governor in 1968. He lost his bid for a third term as governor after becoming embroiled in the Sharpstown stock-fraud scandal.
From Mars missions to free ice cream, Texas headlines span quite a range today. Texas A&M is opening a $200 million space institute while Blue Bell hits the road with free scoops. Which story caught your eye? Hit reply and let us know.
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70+ Arrested as Spring Break Begins in Galveston
More than 70 people were arrested on Friday across Galveston Island and in Texas City as spring break began and hundreds of high school seniors gathered for the unofficial “Senior Skip Day.”
Law enforcement agencies increased patrols after crowds gathered at Buc-ee’s in Texas City before heading to the island. Authorities said 10 firearms were confiscated during the operation, including two reported stolen.
Large crowds and heavy traffic forced police to temporarily close several beach access points on the west end of Galveston Island before reopening them later in the afternoon.
Tensions Push Oil Higher
Gas prices across Texas have risen as geopolitical tensions involving Iran push crude oil prices higher. AAA reports the statewide average price for regular gasoline has reached$2.87 per gallon, while the national average stands at $3.25.
Prices are also rising as refineries shift to summer-blend gasoline and travel demand increases ahead of spring break and seasonal road trips. In East Texas, drivers say they’re already noticing the jump at local stations.
AAA spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said the global oil market remains sensitive to international conflicts, adding that higher crude prices are putting upward pressure on gasoline costs nationwide.
A&M Plans Space Hub
Texas A&M University plans to open its $200 million Space Institute this fall near NASA’s Johnson Space Center, aiming to position Texas as a long-term hub for space exploration.
The four-story facility will sit on a 32-acre site and will feature the world’s largest indoor lunar and Martian landscapes—specialized testing environments designed for robotics, astronaut training, and mission simulations.
Institute leaders say the project aims to support decades of research related to future Moon and Mars missions. “It’s basically setting up Texas to be the center of two generations of future exploration,” said Associate Director Robert Ambrose.
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⤠Arlington: Globe Life Field unveiled a bronze statue honoring the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency, drawing criticism from local NAACP leaders who say the tribute revives controversy tied to the group’s history. (More)
⤠Dallas: IKEA on Wednesday will open its first store within Dallas city limits at The Shops at Park Lane, a two-story small-format location offering about 3,200 home goods items. (More)
⤠Round Rock: Developers broke ground on Origin at The District, a 316-unit luxury multifamily project with ground-level retail, launching vertical construction on the city’s larger mixed-use development. (More)
⤠Breckenridge: An early-morning lightning strike sparked a fire at an oilfield site on County Road 176, damaging six tank batteries and equipment. No injuries were reported. (More)
⤠Houston: Five Apache helicopters flying low over the city this week were preparing for Armed Forces Appreciation Day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, honoring service members. (More)
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⤠Two World Baseball Classic games are scheduled today at Houston’s Daikin Park. Great Britain and Italy will kick off the action at 1 p.m. Later, Brazil and Mexico will square off at 8 p.m. (See full schedule)
⤠No. 4 Texas women’s basketball rolled Alabama 83-60 on Friday to advance to the SEC tournament semifinals. (More)
⤠Dallas Stars’ franchise-record 10-game winning streak ended on Friday with a 5-4 shootout loss to the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche. (More)
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⤠Actress Michelle Pfeiffer said she felt “moved” visiting Taylor Sheridan’s 600-acre Bosque Ranch near Weatherford while discussing her role in the upcoming Paramount+ drama The Madison, which premieres on March 14. (More)
⤠SeaWorld San Antonio opened Barracuda Strike, the tallest inverted family roller coaster in North America, this weekend, sending riders beneath the track across 1,800 feet of twists and dives at up to 44 mph. (See Video)
⤠Blue Bell Creameries has launched a statewide free ice-cream tour, set to stop in major cities, handing out free hand-dipped ice cream, frozen snacks, and merchandise to thank communities for more than 100 years of support. (See Tour Details)
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70+ Arrested as Spring Break Begins in Galveston
