FROM THE GOVERNOR

Abbott appoints Clement, Buford to Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board Governor Greg Abbott appointed James Clement III, and reappointed Tina Yturria Buford to the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) for terms set to expire on Feb. 1, 2027, and Feb. 1, 2026, respectively. TSSWCB administers Texas’ soil and water conservation law and coordinates conservation and pollution abatement programs throughout the state.

James Clement III of Kingsville is a veteran rancher and the senior vice president of Grass and Rangeland at EarthOptics. He is the director for Ranchbot Monitoring Solutions, Frontiers Market, and Beggs Cattle Company. He is a director and chairman of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Committee for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and a director for the American Quarter Horse Association, National Ranching Heritage Center, and the South Texas Property Rights Association.

He is a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, with service in the active and reserve components since 2008. Clement received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Goucher College and a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University.

Tina Yturria Buford of Harlingen is the director of education for the East Foundation and works alongside her family at the H. Yturria Land and Cattle Company.

She is a director of Texan by Nature, former member of the Governor’s Commission for Women, former president of the Texas Wildlife Association and the Texas Wildlife Association Foundation, and former board member of the Sand County Foundation. Buford received a Bachelor of Science in Rangeland Ecology and Management from Texas A&M University at College Station and a Certificate in Ranch Management from the Texas Christian University.

These appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.

Abbott congratulates Brenham as tourism friendly Texas certified community AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott congratulated the city of Brenham on being designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas in the inaugural year of the program after completing the multistep certification process. The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation shows Visit Brenham’s commitment to further develop tourism as an economic growth strategy, boost local job creation, and draw more visitors to their community and to Texas from across the nation and around the world.

“Tourism is critical to our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and from across Texas generate more than $193 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. Every region of this great state offers endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and true Texas hospitality that draws visitors to our communities. I congratulate the City of Brenham and Visit Brenham on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”

“Rolling hills, historic landmarks, and a thriving small-town cultural scene make Brenham a must-visit destination,” said Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell. “Each spring, visitors can take in the beauty of bluebonnet-covered landscapes, while year-round attractions include boutique shopping, touring the legendary Blue Bell Creameries, and exploring the area’s wineries and craft breweries. This recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community celebrates Brenham’s commitment to creating an inviting and enriching experience for all who visit.”

“Congratulations to my hometown of Brenham for achieving the designation of a Tourism Friendly Texas Community,” said Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst. “Located conveniently between Houston and Austin, Brenham boasts a rich tapestry of attractions and experiences that play a vital role in boosting the local economy. Visitors can explore charming historical sites, shop in a myriad of boutiques, immerse themselves in vibrant local festivals, and dine on a variety of cuisines, including world-famous ice cream. Generations of Texans have made the trip to Brenham for its natural beauty, admiring the local bluebonnet fields or enjoying the countless sporting events and outdoor activities. As a proud representative of Brenham in the Texas Senate and a former Washington County Chamber Director myself, I have seen firsthand the dedication and hard work done in promoting our community. This designation will boost local businesses and encourage more Texans to experience the warmth and charm of Brenham and Washington County.”

“Congratulations to the City of Brenham on being designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Representative Trey Wharton. “This achievement is a testament to the community’s commitment to fostering growth and enhancing the experience for visitors while preserving its unique heritage and charm. This designation is not just a recognition of Brenham’s efforts in promoting tourism, but it is also a reflection of collaboration and dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all who visit.”

“Tourism is a vital economic engine for the City of Brenham, driving significant revenue that supports local businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens our community,” said Mayor Atwood Kenjura. “With our city’s unique blend of history, arts, outdoor recreation, and local charm, tourism helps preserve the heritage and character of Brenham.”

“I want to congratulate our Visit Brenham destination marketing team for their outstanding work contributing to our Tourism Friendly Texas Community designation,” said Brenham/ Washington County Tourism Advisory Board Chair Scott Atwood. “From ice cream to history, and from historic carousel rides to a working gin, along with the quaint towns around the county, we have so much to offer visitors and locals alike.”

“Tourism plays a significant role in our local economy,” said City of Brenham Tourism & Marketing Director Jennifer Eckermann. “Receiving recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community is an honor and exciting for our area. For us, tourism contributes more than $120 million in travel spending and creates more than 900 jobs countywide, providing the impetus to showcase all the amazing attractions, destinations, retail, and lodging we have to offer.”

The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open to local governments or non-profit organizations that serve as the lead entity for tourism promotion and development efforts. Benefits of the designation for tourism entities seeking certification on behalf of their community include the opportunity to strengthen or establish relationships important for tourism development, educate local leaders on the importance of tourism to the state, identify and prioritize locally driven strategies, and learn more about opportunities provided by Travel Texas and other state government programs available to support both communities and the travel and tourism industry. For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program, visit: gov.texas. gov/tourism-friendly-texas The mission of Travel Texas in the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office is to enhance and extend local economic development efforts by marketing Texas as a premier travel destination in out-of-state and international markets, generating non-Texan travel to Texas, and creating revenue and jobs for local communities and the state.

Abbott directs Texas Rangers to open criminal investigation into East Plano Islamic Center AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Rangers to open an investigation into the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and any affiliated entities for potential criminal activities.

“Texas is a law-and-order state, and those scheming to evade law enforcement scrutiny must know justice is awaiting them,” said Governor Abbott. “That is why I directed the Texas Rangers to fully investigate the group behind the proposed EPIC compound for potentially violating criminal law. Texas will ensure that anyone affiliated with EPIC who is breaking the law is brought to justice.”

The Texas Rangers investigation into EPIC will focus on potential criminal law violations. Once the investigation is completed, any charges will be brought to the appropriate prosecutorial authorities for further action.

Governor Abbott and the State of Texas continue to take action to uphold the rule of law and defend Texas communities from any threats posed by EPIC: Texas Workforce Commission is investigating EPIC and affiliated entities for potential discrimination in violation of the Texas Fair Housing Act Texas State Securities Board is investigating EPIC and affiliated entities for potential financial harm to Texans Texas Funeral Service Commission sent a ceaseand- desist letter ordering EPIC to immediately stop all illegal funeral service operations Attorney General of Texas is investigating EPIC and affiliated entities for potential violations of Texas consumer protection laws Last week, the Governor announced that a dozen state agencies are investigating potential illegal activities conducted by EPIC and its affiliated entities.

Abbott announces Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund Grant to DSM

AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced that the sixth Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant of $7.87 million has been extended to DSM Semichem LLC (DSM) for an expansion of their specialty materials and chemicals facility in Plainview. This expansion brings DSM’s total capital investment in the facility to $176 million and creates 40 new jobs.

“Texas is making strategic investments to ensure the stability of critical domestic supply chains for the technologies that fuel our economy,” said Governor Abbott. “This $176 million total capital investment by DSM to construct and expand its facility in Plainview will double their production volume of specialty materials essential for semiconductor manufacturing in Texas. It will also create 40 good-paying jobs for Texans in a high-demand industry. By working together to meet the rising demand for chip production, Texas will continue to lead the nation as we build a stronger, more prosperous Texas than ever before.”

DSM, a joint venture of Dongjin USA, Samsung C&T America, and Martin ELSA Investment LLC, produces electronic-level sulfuric acid (ELSA). DSM’s ELSA is a highly pure form of sulfuric acid needed for its ability to clean wafers and not leave any residual impurities or unidentifiable particles, a critical step in manufacturing chips in high-performance computing, 5G, Al, and defense applications.

“DSM Semichem is honored to receive a $7.87 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund,” said DSM Semichem LLC Managing Director Tae Yong An. “This funding will accelerate the expansion of our electronic-level sulfuric acid plant in Plainview, enabling Texas to produce the highest quality ELSA in America and meet the increasing demand of domestic leading-edge fabs. DSM will establish Texas as a central semiconductor material production hub and strengthen the U.S. semiconductor supply chain.”

“This investment is a big win for Texas and a testament to our state’s leadership in securing critical supply chains,” said Senator Charles Perry. “DSM’s expansion in Plainview strengthens our semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, bolsters national security, and brings high-quality jobs and major capital investment to West Texas. By supporting homegrown production of essential materials, Texas is ensuring its role as the backbone of American innovation and economic strength.”

“Texas continues to lead the way in securing our nation’s semiconductor supply chain, and this investment in Plainview is proof of that leadership,” said Representative Ken King. “DSM’s expansion will create good-paying jobs, strengthen our local economy, and ensure that materials for chip production are made right here in House District 88. I appreciate Governor Abbott’s commitment to keeping Texas at the forefront of semiconductor manufacturing, and I’m proud to support strategic investments that bring opportunity to our region.”

GovernAbbott signed into law the Texas CHIPS Act in 2023 to establish the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, a performance- based incentive program to encourage the continued leadership of Texas in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing, as well as the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium. These programs, administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, a newly formed division within the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, are designed to leverage Texas’ investments in the semiconductor industry, encourage semiconductor- related companies to expand in the state, further develop the expertise and capacity of Texas institutions of higher education, and maintain the state’s position as the nation’s leader in semiconductor manufacturing.

Abbott appoints Coronado, Smith to Texas Workforce Investment Council AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott appointed Aida Coronado and Bobby Smith to the Texas Workforce Investment Council for terms set to expire on Sept. 1. The Council engages in a collaborative and systematic view of workforce development programs throughout the state and provides for the planning, evaluation, research, and other functions related to 19 workforce programs.

Aida Coronado of Brownsville is the executive vice president and chief operations officer for DHR Health Brownsville and a family nurse practitioner. She is the chairman of Advanced Practice Providers Process Improvement and DHR Allied Health Committee and a representative on the DHR Medical Executive Committee.

She was honorably discharged from the United States Public Health Service. Coronado received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas (UT) Rio Grande Valley, formerly UT Brownsville, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi.

Bobby Smith of Buda is the business representative for United Association Local 286. Additionally, he teaches EPRI Industrial Rigging at Local 286. He is a delegate for Central Texas Labor Council and a former member of the Austin Construction Advisory Committee. He is a parishioner at Saint Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church and sponsor at Outdoor Christian Ministries.

Smith completed a plumbing, pipefitting, and welding Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) apprenticeship with Local 286.

Governor Abbott announces joint FEMA preliminary damage assessments for South Texas flood Damage AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to request that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials join state and local partners in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments in South Texas communities impacted by recent flooding.

These assessments will help determine whether Texas meets the federal threshold for disaster assistance.

“Texas continues to provide all necessary resources to local officials, first responders, and emergency management teams as they respond to the recent flooding and heavy rainfall that occurred in South Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans are urged to report any damage to their homes or businesses through the iSTAT damage survey to help the state determine if Texas qualifies for federal disaster assistance. I thank the Texas Division of Emergency Management for partnering with local, state, and federal officials to ensure Texans meet the eligibility requirements for financial assistance. The State of Texas continues to work tirelessly to ensure impacted communities get the assistance they need to rebuild and recover from the flood damage.”

Officials continue to review disaster damage information self-reported by Texans through TDEM’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). Once it is safe to do so, affected Texans are encouraged to submit information about damage to homes or businesses by visiting damage. tdem.texas.gov. This data is vital to help officials identify impacted areas and connect Texans with resources.

Governor Abbott continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities from the impacts of flooding, including: Issuing a state disaster declaration for impacted communities.

Activating state emergency response resources ahead of storm impacts.

Governor Abbott appoints Polk to Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Council AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott appointed Andrew Polk to the Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Council for a term set to expire on February 1, 2029.

The Council’s duties are to advise and assist the Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Program (TFRLCP) with administration of the program and to select applicants to receive grants. The goal of the TFRLCP is conservation of working lands with high values for water, fish and wildlife, and agricultural production.

Andrew Polk of Lufkin is senior vice president and commercial lender at Angelina Savings Bank and partner of Polk Land & Cattle Company. He is a member of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, where he serves as vice chair of the Natural Resources Committee. Polk received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Leadership and Development from Texas A&M University and a certificate in Ranch Management from Texas Christian University.

This appointment is subject to Sente confirmation.

Governor Abbott reappoints three To Texas Military Preparedness Commission AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott reappointed Michael “Mike” Boyd, Garry Bradford, and Todd Fox to the Texas Military Preparedness Commission for terms set to expire on February 1, 2031.

The Commission’s goal is to preserve, protect, expand, and attract new military missions, assets, and installations. Additionally, the Commission encourages defense-related businesses to expand or relocate in Texas.

Michael “Mike” Boyd of Christoval is the former chairman of Housley Communications, Inc. Boyd is a 2024-2025 National Defense Alliance Defense Community Champion. He is a former trustee of the San Angelo Health Foundation, former president of the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, and former trustee of the Shannon Medical Center Board of Trustees.

Boyd received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University, a Master in Banking from Southwestern Graduate School of Banking, and a military degree from the Command and General Staff College. He is a Texas Army National Guard veteran with over 30 years of service.

Garry Bradford of Corpus Christi is the owner, president, and CEO of Unique Employment Service and Bradford Holding Company. He is the former chairman of the Board for the Certification Institute. He is the former president for the Texas Chapter of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations and the past National and Texas Leadership chairman.

Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors for Employers Service Assurance Corporation, Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Board of Directors, and the Wells Fargo Bank Business Advisory Board for the Southwestern Region. He serves on the Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Tarpon Foundation Board of Directors, Del Mar College Business Advisory Board, Bay Area Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse, and the South Texas Military Facilities Task Force.

Bradford received a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences and Business from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Science in Military Science from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He retired in 2006 as a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves and earned an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army for prior service.

Todd Fox of Belton is president of First Heroes National Bank. He served in the United States Army for 24 years, retiring as chief of staff, III corps in 2018. Fox received a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College, a Master of Public Policy from Georgetown University, and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategy from the United States Army War College.

These appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.