Ok… before we get started Ronnie has to out himself regarding the great state of Texas. You see, he (Ronnie) was a senior in high school in 1978. A die-hard Denver fan, he was excited to watch the match-up between his beloved Donkeys and the Dallas Cowboys (a powerhouse at the time). Of course, football nerds know about the outcome of that particular game, and Ronnie has yet to get over it. So, out of the gate we have to deal with Ronnie’s less than warm and fuzzy outlook regarding Texas, the Lone Star State. That said, he wants readers to know he’s not prejudiced against them. He says some of his best friends are Texans (wink). Yes… even Cowboys fans. Though he’s more likely to show compassion these days as it seems they have fallen on hard times. Ah, bless their hearts (double wink).

Anyway, Texas, or Tejas, as his Austin-based friends call it, is a vast and diverse land with a rich history and culture. It offers a wide range of experiences, from bustling cities to tranquil… read desolate, endless prairie. And before you ask, yes there are several publicly accessible natural hot springs in Texas. It has a handful of unique hot springs in the southern part of the state. There are not as many hot springs as other states in the Southwest United States, but the 5 spots included here are truly special.

As for higher-ed opportunities, Texas is home to a variety of choices, including many small to medium-sized institutions. Some notable examples include Trinity University, located in San Antonio, this private liberal arts college is known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus; Texas A&M University-Commerce, this public university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs; Texas Lutheran University, located in Seguin, this private Lutheran university emphasizes faith and learning.

And since this is the HSoB tour, with Ronnie on the constant lookout for literary landmarks, Texas has it. There are several famous literary landmarks throughout the state. Some of the most notable include the J. Frank Dobie House, located in Austin, this historic house was the home of the Texas folklorist J. Frank Dobie; Stephen F. Austin State University, this university is named after the “Father of Texas” and offers a variety of literary programs.

Now, again, Ronnie’s NOT prejudiced against Texas. And he’ll prove it now by highlighting positive features. Starting with those wide-open spaces and natural beauty. In fact, some see those endless prairies fondly. Witness this early hit by The Chicks. And Texas features more than just mind-numbingly endless prairie and longhorn cattle, there’s a wide range of sights to see there. Hill Country, the Texas Panhandle, and the Gulf Coast, offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Texas also has a strong, thriving economy, with a diverse range of industries. There’s also a rich cultural heritage as the state’s history, music, and food have made a significant impact on American culture… and Texans are friendly, welcoming people, known for their hospitality and warm demeanor. Just remember “bless your heart” isn’t always a friendly expression (wink).

Now, some of the Bad & Ugly points Ronnie LOVES to make: For one, Texas is subject to extreme weather. Depending on what area you are living in, you can experience hurricanes, tornadoes, and/or droughts, which can cause significant damage and disruption. Like some of the other massive urban zones the HSoB tour has passed through, the state’s growing population has led to increasing traffic congestion in major cities. Ironically, some of these beleaguered Texans have made their way to, of all places, Denver for a reprieve… only to get jammed for $20 for stumbling into the c470 auto-toll turnpike. A steep price for an airport short-cut, but hey, they (e470 Authority) can get away with it, and so they do.

And… the ugly: Texas has a reputation for being politically conservative, and there can be significant divisions between different groups. To be fair, Texas is enormous, and like California, deliciously diverse. It may be tempting to assume Texas is a monolith of red-state sentiments, but that’s just not the case. In fact, Texas is the home of some super-charismatic left-leaning populists. Jim Hightower comes to mind, and the late, great, lady statesperson and former governor, Ann Richards reminds us that the political pendulum is alive and well in the Lone Star State.

Now, if Texans were pressed to name their best sightseeing location, they might mention the Big Bend National Park, widely regarded as one of the most stunning natural areas in Texas. It offers breathtaking scenery, including mountains, deserts, and rivers.

And what about Famous Texans? Well, there’s George Bush (I & II), Lyndon Baines Johnson, Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Beyoncé, Matthew McConaughey, Renée Zellweger, Tommy Lee Jones, Larry McMurtry, and many more.

Overall, Texas is a state with a lot to offer. While it has its challenges, it also boasts a vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and a strong economy. Now if Ronnie could just get over the ’78 Dallas-Denver Superbowl debacle, maybe he’d bless their hearts… the friendly way, that is.

Onward through the fog… R.H.

It might be reckless…
To mess with Texas…
Demand prospectus…
Don’t be pretentious…
But if you seek a…
Rude consensus…
Someone will surely…
Disagree… bless your heart!