Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em, But You May Still Go To Jail

Texas lawmakers decided that arresting every day pot smokers was stupid, and enacted a law to give them a citation in lieu of jail. Unfortunately, local DFW officials would still rather fill up our already overcrowded jail system and overstretch our already stretched police forces.

We have said this over and over and over. Non violent offenders should not go to jail. What part of this is so hard to comprehend?

The Collin County prosecutor in the CBS11 story is quoted as worrying that giving someone a ticket sends the wrong message. I believe the message the state is giving you is that you need to stop wasting resources on the small fry pot head and go after the dealers and suppliers of the drugs. DFW officials should know they have a problem with the supplier, when they have massive marijuana farms popping up in their own backyards...literally in at least one case.

We're not drug users here at TC, no matter if we have leaf in our name. But we have common sense when it comes to the war on drugs. Go after the head of the dragon if you want to put out the rest of the fire.

TxDOT and TTC Chairman Ric Williamson Runs The Proverbial Toll Booth

Do not pass "Go". Do not collect $200. I guess Ric wasn't "farsighted" enough to ward off his 3rd, and fatal, heart attack. RIP Ric Williamson. May the Trans Texas Corridor join you whereever it is you went.

This Week In Waitress Stories

Every Christmas a waitress, hard on her luck, and in a small town, gets a huge tip or something cool from some crotchety old bastard. This year was no exception. A Brownsville Texas cafeteria employee cashed in. This is a lesson to all service workers. Keep smiling, and it just might pay off. Or at the very least, don't spit in our food. Merry Christmas from the blue hairs.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas - For nearly seven years Melina Salazar did her best to put on a smile and tend to the every need of her most loyal and cantankerous customer.

She made sure his food was as hot as he wanted, even if it meant he burned his mouth. And she smiled through his demands and curses. The 89-year-old Walter "Buck" Swords obviously appreciated it, leaving the waitress $50,000 and a 2000 Buick when he died.

"I still can't believe it," the Luby's cafeteria employee told Harlingen television station KGBT-TV in an interview during which she described Swords as "kind of mean."

Swords, a World War II veteran, died in July. But Salazar learned just a few days before Christmas that he had left her the money and car.

A Texas Democratic Christmas Carol

All of the characters from A Christmas Carol are lining up to run in the Democratic Primary in Texas.

The hero is of course Bob Cratchit, played by State Rep. Rick Noriega. He works tiredlessly at the office all day and all night for little pay, because he wants to provide for everyone.

Tiny Tim is played by Ray McMurrey, who means well, but is so weak, and not to mention utterly clueless. But he just loves everyone, including Scrooge.

And everyone's favorite dead actor, Gene Kelly, is reprising his role as Ebeneezer Scrooge.

Tiny Tim said this of Scrooge, in a poorly scribbled press release:

Responding to questions about Kelly’s entrance into the race, McMurrey said that, “Democrats are about inclusion, not exclusion. We are about expanding democracy, not limiting it. We are about people first, not winning. We are about principle, not power. We are about the millions who do not vote, not million-dollar donors. The heart and soul of the Democratic Party will be found in my campaign.”

We hope in 2008 the Ghost of Christmas Future sees a new US Senator in Rick Noriega.

Merry Christmas to all. And God bless us, every one, Tiny Tim.

This Week In....Santa!

Normally we provide you with some stupid stories. We decided you needed Christmas stories instead!

 

Mount Santa Claus anyone? Former Soviet Republic Kyrgyzstan (pronounced Kyrgyzstan...yeah we dunno either), has decided to name one of its mountains after Jolly Ol' Saint Nick to develop tourism. Santa will join the likes of Lenin and Stalin among named peaks. See, who said all Muslim countries were bad?

 

Mary Young married Brian Christmas. Hilarity ensued when she just figured out a year later her name is Mary Christmas. Ho ho ho! Apparently it's a Welsh joke that not even the Welsh get.

 

Your 16 year old daughter got knocked up and don't know how it happened? Ho ho ho! This one isn't a Welsh joke, but a good time to talk to your kids and tell them where babies come from. The Louisiana delta sure is fertile.

Ongoing Saga Of The Cosco Busan

It's lawsuit time! In the ever developing story of the Cosco Busan, which struck the San Francisco Bay Bridge, the City of San Francisco is the latest to file suit to recoup damages.

 

According to the Journal of Commerce, the suit charges that the fuel spill caused by the ship wreck killed 2,200 birds as well as other marine life, damaged waterfront property, and harmed area fisherman who make their livelihoods on the bay. Just about anyone who can be sued is being sued, including the ship's owner, the ship's operator, the owner of the ship's fuel, and the now infamous ship's pilot, John Cota.

 

The US Justice Dept already filed suit on Nov 30th for unspecified damages related to the same incident.

 

 

Texas Blog Roundup

It's Sunday and this week's Texas Progressive Alliance Blog Round-Up compiled by Vince from Capitol Annex. His hokey blogger Christmas carol (as seen on other round up versions) was deleted due to complaints of milk being snorted through noses and other injuries from our readers.

Fred Thompson couldn't make the ballot in Delaware because of FIVE HUNDRED
SIGNATURES. Mayor McSleaze at McBlogger thinks that's pretty pathetic. You will as well.

Eddie at Burnt Orange Report writes about a precedent-setting case in the Sixth District Court of Appeals which gives helps a Paris, Texas blogger preserve his or her anonymity.

How I became a "far-left-radical with a socialist agenda" etc. On Bluedaze by TXsharon

While Gary at Easter Lemming Liberal News had a sick mouse the world moved on.

Choo choo!! That is the sound of cleaner air at The Texas Cloverleaf. 98 new more environmentally friendly trains are running in Texas. But did taxpayers really have to front the money?

Bay Area Houston Wonders why NASA Contractors are limiting their employees constitutional rights while receiving billions of dollars of government funding.

Vince at Capitol Annex notes that AG Greg Abbott has handed Speaker Tom Craddick an early Christmas present in the form of an opinion that hands him cart blanche to do whatever he wants--and even emasculates impeachment.

Muse discovers a list of 300+ women political bloggers! Female bloggers are playing a powerful role in this presidential election cycle – and are increasingly recognized for this. Texas bloggers are on the list. Check it out!

In his piece titled John Cornyn Files for Senate, Hal at Half Empty entertains the notion that the junior senator is really looking for an elusive seat on the US Supreme Court.

Stace at DosCentavos tells us about the newest Pew Center poll! It's no wonder many Citizen-Latinos (and especially undocumented folks) are feeling like people without a country.

Eye on Williamson, posts on Brian Ruiz, Rep. John Carter's opponent in TX-31, and two of Carter's recent votes in Brian Ruiz And Rep. John Carter's (R-Exxon Mobil) Circle .

An activist action plan for the FISA-with-telecom immunity bill, coming up on Monday in the Senate, is posted by PDiddie at Brains and Eggs.

And, last but not least, don't forget about Dan Barrett in House District 97, who has been endorsed by the Texas Progressive Alliance in his special election runoff. Matt at Burnt Orange Report has a great post about the race here.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year": Texas House Democratic Leadership

[Today, the Texas Progressive Alliance honors its 2007 Texan of the Year. This year, the Alliance elected to recognize a number of other Texans who have contributed to Texas politics and the Progressive cause during 2007. This week, leading up to the TOY announcement, we brought you our Texas Progressive Alliance Gold Stars. Thursday, we recognized State Sen. Mario Gallegos. Wednesday, we recognized Molly Ivins. Tuesday, we recognized Denise Davis. Monday, it was Rick & Melissa Noriega. Our Silver Stars, announced last week, may be found here.]

The Texas Progressive Alliance is proud to announce the House Leadership team of State Rep. Jim Dunnam, State Rep. Garnet Coleman, and State Rep. Pete Gallego as our 2007 recipients of the Texan of the Year award.

There may not be another three individuals who have done more for Democrats in the state of Texas over the past four years than Rep. Jim Dunnam, Rep. Pete Gallego. Together, they have led the fight for the resurgence of the Texas Democratic Party. Every day is another story. They fought through the 2006 elections, and then they fought for the months leading up to the first day of session. They led the fight against Speaker Craddick in the final days of the session, and are now poised to add to the Democratic gains in the House as they continue their roles as Co-Chairs of the House Democratic Campaign Committee.

Their work together is imperative to the continued progress of Democrats in Texas, but it's their individual efforts that really demonstrate how this leadership team makes the best of one another for the good of all Texans. Here is a brief highlight of what each of these leaders did over the past year:

State Rep. Jim Dunnam

In 2003, we had a mere 62 members in the House in 2003. Today, there are 70, including State Rep. Kirk England who announced his intentions to switch parties and run as a Democrat next cycle. In only 5 years, there was full frontal attack on Speaker Craddick's ability to lead, launched by one question by the Waco Democrat: "Mr. Speaker, what is the process of removing the Speaker of the Texas House?" His mastery of the House rules is incredible to watch.

During the 80th Regular Session, Rep. Jim Dunnam led efforts to clean up the mess Governor Perry and the Republican leadership made at the Texas Youth Commission. He worked with Rep. Coleman and Rep. Gallego to lead the fight against expanding new tax cuts for the richest 10% of Texans at the expense of health care and education opportunities for Texas families. He passed numerous bills for his district, but he will forever be remembered for the efforts he made on the House floor, challenging the absolute power of Speaker Craddick.

State Rep. Garnet Coleman

Rep. Garnet Coleman is one of the most progressive members of the Texas House. Rep. Coleman filed over sixty piece of legislation, including (1) legislation end tuition deregulation, (2) legislation to overturn the ban on gay marriage, (3) legislation to prevent the construction of any new toll roads anywhere in the state of Texas. But beyond these strong policy positions, he successfully passed legislation to expand health care opportunities for former foster children and double the funding for cancer research. He continued his fight to fully restore CHIP -- an effort he's worked for ever since Speaker Craddick and his allies cut hundreds of thousands of kids off of health care since 2003.

Beyond his legislative work, Rep. Coleman is the top fundraiser for Texas Democrats, and is well-known for his non-stop efforts in supporting House Democrats across the state. He chairs the Legislative Study Group, which received a Silver Star award from the TPA for its incredible policy work.

State Rep. Pete Gallego

Rep. Pete Gallego is the chair of of the largest bipartisan legislative caucus in the Texas House-- the Mexican American Legislative Caucus. He also sits on the national board of NALEO. He was a top lieutenant for Speaker Pete Laney, and his trust from that better time in the Texas House allows him to remain as one of the most trusted members in the Texas House.

His policy issues are far-reaching, and can range from helping protect our state's natural resources to preventing those horrid voter ID bills behind the scenes. Rep. Gallego also helped temper some of the more controversial issues of the session, including immigration and security.

Rep. Gallego often makes waves quietly inside the Capitol, but his efforts help thousands of Texans from all walks of life. Together, Rep. Gallego, Rep. Dunnam, and Rep. Coleman are extremely deserving for our 2007 Texan of the Year award.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year" Gold Stars: State Senator Mario Gallegos

[This year, in addition to recognizing its Texan of the Year (which will come this Friday), the Texas Progressive Alliance elected to recognize a number of other Texans who have contributed to Texas politics and the Progressive cause during 2007. This week, leading up to the TOY announcement, we bring you our Texas Progressive Alliance Gold Stars (one each day through Thursday). Wednesday, we recognized Molly Ivins. Tuesday, we recognized Denise Davis. Monday, it was Rick & Melissa Noriega. Our Silver Stars, announced last week, may be found here.]

Don't forget! The Texan Of The Year Will Be Announced On Friday!!!!

State Sen. Mario Gallegos

We all like to think that when our beliefs and principles are truly put to the test, that we will be able to answer the call and stand up for the things we hold dear, even if it means putting our own well-being at risk. Most of us never find ourselves in that position, and it's often just as well, for as the Apostle Peter could tell us, it's easier said than done. But when it is done, it serves as an inspiration for all of us.

State Sen. Mario Gallegos was in that position this spring. Having undergone a liver transplant shortly after the legislative session began, he spent most of the rest of the session in Houston recuperating. His absence meant that the Democratic Senate caucus had only ten members in it, which by itself was not enough to block a divisive partisan bill, such as the many that were filed to restrict voting rights by requiring photo ID. Sen. Gallegos asked Lt. Gov. Dewhurst to give him notice if a voter ID bill was going to be on the docket, so he could do his duty and prevent it from passing. Dewhurst made a one-time-only guarantee, so against the advice of his doctor, Gallegos arrived in Austin and vowed to stay there until sine die to protect all voters' rights. And it was a good and necessary thing that he did, as later events proved Dewhurst's willingness to pass such a bill by any means necessary. His health was weak, but his will was strong, and the battle was at a standstill.

But alas, just as victory seemed assured, his fragile health sent him back to Houston, and it looked like Dewhurst would finally get his chance. And then, when everyone least expected it, he came back, and he left no doubt as to the force of his resolve.

Ailing state Sen. Mario Gallegos, D-Houston, has a hospital bed set up in the sergeant's office -- about a 100 feet from Gallegos' Senate chamber desk, Monday so that he could help block a contentious voter ID bill from debate.

"I'm hurting. I'm hurting," Gallegos said a few minutes ago as the Senate went into session.

[...]

In the meantime, Sen. Bob Deuell, R-Greenville, is monitoring Gallegos' health. Deuell is a physician.

In the face of such resistance, Dewhurst finally capitulated, and let Sen. Gallegos return home where he could get the treatment he needed. He left the Senate chamber to a standing ovation, and the lasting gratitude of all Texans who cherish the right to vote.

For literally putting his life on the line in order to protect democratic principles, State Sen. Mario Gallegos is a deserving winner of a Gold Star from the Texas Progressive Alliance.

This Week In Stupid

We don't know what it is with people wanting to kill animals in class, but this week two Columbus Texas teens brought a baby raccoon to class. Then they proceeded to stomp on it, kill it, then eat it. The substitute teacher present "didn't know any better" according to the Superintendent. He assured everyone it won't happen again. Wow, that makes us feel better about the whole situation. I am sure the mother of the raccoon is relieved as well.

Rather than lose his precious bottles of vodka to airport screeners, a German man downed 1 liter of vodka in the check point line. Boris Yeltsin's ghost is proud of you, sir.

Management and security at a Hurst Texas Dillard's department store made a disabled Iraq war veteran leave the store , as they decided he did not have a valid reason for bringing in a service dog. We have two questions. First, what training do retail managers receive that qualifies them to determine what handicapped people can do? Secondly, why would anyone shop in Hurst?

Subsidizing Clean Texas Trains. Breathe In Those $$

For once the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality made a decent decision. Much like previous efforts in California, Texas has helped pay for 98 low emission locomotives for the Union Pacific rail road to use in Texas locations.

 

$75 million may seem like a lot, but that still only covered 75% of the cost of those trains. But compared to the air quality benefit we may be winning out on this one. A normal diesel locomotive emits 26 tons of nitrous oxide PER DAY, which is 7% of the total amount of the entire DFW metroplex. The new engines cut their emissions by 54 to 63 percent on average.

 

One question we do have is this. Why did the state have to subsidize a multi-BILLION dollar company like Union Pacific to get these engines? In the same article, it mentions the BNSF railroad already has some of these trains in operation, which one would assume they paid for themselves (correct us if we're wrong). UP's 3rd quarter 2007 profit alone was over $500 million. We also can not find where California paid UP for the implementation of these same locomotives. It seems there, it was a mandate agreed upon by both UP and BNSF.

 

Couldn't they pay for just a teeny bit more of the cost on these engines themselves? As consumers, we already pay for them indirectly by paying the shipping costs that UP charges the companies who provide us our goods. Shipping costs are passed on to us in our retail prices.

 

Maybe it is time Texas legislators step up to the plate and mandate cleaner air. If the Republicans in control are so pro free market, then make the free market step up as well! But in the meantime, kudos to the TCEQ and UP for trying to do something about the problem.

Bush Hates Children, Part Duh

What will John Cornyn's spin be this time? President Bush vetoed the SCHIP bill for a second time today.

 

Even after revising the bill to give Republicans solice in knowing illegal immigrants can use SCHIP, Bush still rejected the bipartisan legislation. House Miniority Leader John "Hard On" Boehner, raised up his voice in discontent that Democrats rejected his plea to only give a handful more children some coverage.

 

Man, if the majority would just give in to all minority demands, we could just solve these problems. Sorry Bonny. Didn't work that way in the GOP Congress in 1994-2006 and it doesn't work that way now. The majority rules in Congress, as it does in public life. The majority in Congress and in the public say they want an expanded SCHIP. Unfortunately, you all just don't get it yet. Maybe you will in 2008.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year" Gold Stars: Molly Ivins

[This year, in addition to recognizing its Texan of the Year (which will come this Friday), the Texas Progressive Alliance elected to recognize a number of other Texans who have contributed to Texas politics and the Progressive cause during 2007. This week, leading up to the TOY announcement, we bring you our Texas Progressive Alliance Gold Stars (one each day through Thursday). Yesterday, we recognized Denise Davis. Monday, it was Rick & Melissa Noriega. Our Silver Stars, announced last week, may be found here.]

Molly Ivins. Had Molly Ivins been born in 1984 instead of 1944, she might have been a modern-day blogger. Instead, she was an award-winning, best selling journalist, columnist and author. A Texan, a progressive, a feminist, and a survivor, Molly Ivins passing earlier this year marked the end of an era for Texans and those who loved her fiery, populist brand. Molly Ivins gave progressives a prominent, national, voice.

In honoring someone as distinguished as the late, great Molly Ivins, sometimes it's best to do so in someone else's words. In this case, Molly's:

I used to say, having once been a card-carrying Sixties radical, that if I had to be called a liberal, I’d just as soon be the worst kind of liberal--a bleeding heart. I wound up being a liberal because I was for civil rights and against the war in Vietnam and that’s what I got called. I missed the New Deal and McCarthyism and all that good business.

I’ve got more important things to worry about--three-year-old kids getting raped and denied admission to a hospital because their mamas don’t have any money and things like that. I carry neither brief nor guilt for the many sins of liberals past and present: there’s too much to bleed over. And laugh over.

Indeed, Molly Ivins. Indeed. For this and more, we name you a Texas Progressive Alliance 2007 Gold Star.

John Edwards Can Beat Them All

Polls polls everywhere is polls. But one of the strongest telling polls of them all has come out today over in Wolf Blitzer Land. CNN's latest poll shows the new GOP darling Guvnah Mike Huckabee losing big time to every Democratic candidate out there.

But the best part is--- John Edwards is the ONLY Democrat who can beat each of the top GOP contenders. He takes out Huckabee by 25%, magic underwear man himself Mitt Romney by 22%, and even McCain and Rudy by 8% and 9% respectively.

But what is it that the other polls are missing? If John Edwards and John McCain are the best candidates in head to head match ups, why are they not leading polls in early primary states? We really do not have a good answer for that. If you ask an Iowan, he or she might say Hillary is tops. But on the same page, you can ask one certain grandmother in North Carolina who has voted Democrat her entire life, and her answer right now is John McCain. So polls do not reflect the voting choices of the entire populous.

You must remember this when you go to vote. YOUR VOTE DOES MATTER. Vote for who you want to and not who the polls tell you to vote for. Oh, and we're still going with John Edwards.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year" Gold Stars: Denise Davis

[This year, in addition to recognizing its Texan of the Year (which will come this Friday), the Texas Progressive Alliance elected to recognize a number of other Texans who have contributed to Texas politics and the Progressive cause during 2007. This week, leading up to the TOY announcement, we bring you our Texas Progressive Alliance Gold Stars (one each day through Thursday). Yesterday, we recognized Rick & Melissa Noriega. Our Silver Stars, announced last week, may be found here.]

Denise Davis. Few stories this year enthralled the politically inclined among us this year like the ongoing turmoil in the Texas House of Representatives. From the Speaker's race at the onset of the 80th Legislative Session to Rep. Pat Haggerty's call for members who wanted to remove House Speaker Tom Craddick to take the keys to their voting machines and follow him out of the chamber at the end of the session, this year was a watershed moment in Texas political history. While there were many, many, elected officials who deserve (and, indeed, will receive) recognition and historical remembrance for the parts they played in the pageant of chaos that was the 80th Texas Legislature, one other individual--who happens not to be an elected official--also deserves to be recognized for the role she played in the unprecedented drama. Denise Davis, the former Parliamentarian of the Texas House of Representatives was never an uncontroversial figure. Throughout her tenure--which lasted for nearly three sessions--some Democrats privately criticized Davis for some of her rulings and believed her to be an unrepentant loyalist to House Speaker Tom Craddick. That changed near midnight on May 25, 2007 when Denise Davis walked out of the Parliamentarian's Office and into the pages of history. Around 9 p.m. that night, after House Democratic Leader Jim Dunnam attempted to get Craddick to recognize a motion to vacate the chair, Craddick walked off the dais and left the House in utter chaos, 'adjourned' until 11 p.m. What happened in the interim to some degree remains a blur, although one thing is clear: Parliamentarian Denise Davis (and her deputy, Chris Griesel) resigned, and House Speaker Tom Craddick appointed two enforcer-thugs to take their place. Denise Davis departed House Speaker Tom Craddick's service that night rather than legitimize his dictator-like hold over the Texas House. It is a move that took courage, because the full weight of Craddick's office--in attempts to keep her quiet about what happened in those last days--came down upon her and demanded she say nothing about her tenure publicly. While Davis, for her own reasons, has not spoken about what happened in those last days and hours of her tenure, one thing is sure: when the history of the 80th Legislature is written, amidst the legislators who will occupy the pages of the texts that tell this story, there will be one other person whose part will be recognized, and that person will be Denise Davis--for her courage.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year" Gold Stars: Rick and Melissa Noriega

This year, in addition to recognizing its Texan of the Year (which will come this Friday), the Texas Progressive Alliance elected to recognize a number of other Texans who have contributed to Texas politics and the Progressive cause during 2007. This week, leading up to the TOY announcement, we bring you our Texas Progressive Alliance Gold Stars (one each day through Thursday).

Rick and Melissa Noriega. These two Houston Democrats could easily be called Texas' new Political Power Couple. Melissa Noriega made news early this year with her run for the Houston City Council seat vacated by Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, who resigned the seat to assume the last six weeks of former Congressman Tom DeLay's term in 2006. Through a special election, a runoff, and a general election battle to win the seat for a full term, Melissa Noriega's progressive message endeared her to Houston voters, earned her statewide media recognition, and helped mark her as part of a new generation of progressive leaders with statewide potential. Rick Noriega's story is one that is also well known. A veteran of the "War on Terror," Rick Noriega started generating buzz early in 2007 as a number of progressive Netroots activists and bricks-and-mortar Democratic activists created a movement to "draft" Noriega into the Democratic Party's race for United States Senate. Rick Noriega answered the call to service and threw his hat into the ring to take on John Cornyn and the Texas Republican machine in the 2008 election in spite of the fact that he could have easily won reelection to his seat in the Texas Legislature or even run for another office where the fight would have been small to none. Instead, he had the courage to stand up for all Texans and say enough is enough. A true people-powered candidate, Rick Noriega, along with Melissa Noriega, have both made significant sacrifices to serve the people of Texas. For this and many other reasons, the Texas Progressive Alliance is pleased to recognize Rick and Melissa Noriega among its 2007 Gold Stars.

Texas Blog Roundup

Sorry we're late. Too much partying. Here is this week's roundup.

It's Monday, and that means it is time once again for the Texas Progressive Alliance Blog Round-Up. This week's round-up was compiled by Vince from Capitol Annex.

It appears that TX. Sen. Craig Estes is considering recommending an investigation into the egregious negligence and malpractice of the Texas Railroad Commission. However, as TXsharon at Bluedaze reminds us: It's no time to rest! Keep the pressure on with your letters, emails, faxes and calls.

Now that Williamson County's secret complaint has been dismissed, the Texas Fair Defense Project's class-action lawsuit on behalf of indigent defendants is now back on track. Eye on Williamson's wcnews provides an update on the slowly progressing case in The Upside-Down World of Williamson County.

The Associated Republicans of Texas met, ate, belched and applauded the most recent venom spewed from the mouth of Karl Rove at an appearance in Austin last week. Grab your can of disinfectant and click over to Brains and Eggs, where PDiddie has the (pooper) scoop.

CouldBeTrue of South Texas Chisme enjoyed this headline: 'Where was Hutchison, Valley veterans ask'. Why aren't all US veterans asking where all 'support the troop' Republicans have been?

John Coby at Bay Area Houston has his take on a Christmas poem T'was the Night Before Impeachment. T'was the night before impeachment it was cold, wet, and rainy Not a creature was testifying, not even Dick Cheney. Impeachment resolutions were hung in the House for appearing Waiting for Conyers and Waxman, and a long awaited hearing.

BossKitty at Bluebloggin is frustrated with Congress dropping the Hate Crime Bill H.R. 1585 Hate Crime Bill Married To Iraqi War Funding - No Joke

Vince at Capitol Annex takes a look at the lies and errors in Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott's amucis brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in groundbreaking Voter ID case.

The Texas Cloverleaf calls out TxDOT for delaying DFW area construction projects even after receiving $3.197 billion from NTTA.

The Sunset Commission is taking a hard look at TXDOT and McBlogger thinks it's about time. Feel to send in your
href="http://www.mcblogger.com/archives/2007/12/sunset_asking_f.html">suggestions on how to fix the ailing agency.

One week into Filing Season, Off the Kuff reviews the filings he's waiting for.

The Texas Education Agency made national news after the forced resignation of Chris Comer, its science curriculum director, in the ever-swirling "intelligent design" controversy, reports North Texas Liberal's Texas Toad.

Killian's Irish Red Middle School

A new Lewisville school, Killian Middle School, would normally not be the subject of controversy, except in the case of it's new logo. Students chose the Mustangs as its new mascot, and a teacher drew up a similar logo to a beer of the same name. Killian Middle School. Meet Killian's Irish Red beer.
In the age of corporate sponsorships, maybe the brewery should step up and sponsor the school, while in turn getting some free advertising. Maybe not. We know 7th graders only like Beast Lite.

So we've come up with some other possibilities of logos for the school.

The Killian Middle School Frogs?

The Killian Middle School Spuds?

Ok maybe not so much. But there are other alternatives in the market out there.

Texas Progressive Alliance "Texan Of The Year" Silver Stars

Since 2005, the Texas Progressive Alliance has named a "Texan of the Year" to give recognition to one worthy Texan who has made a significant contribution to the world of politics or the progressive cause.

For our Third Annual Texan of the Year Awards, the Texas Progressive Alliance elected to not only name a Texan of the Year--the Texan or Texans who contributed the most to the cause of the Progressive movement in 2007--but also recognize other Texans whose contributions were also important to the Progressive cause and worthy of recognition.

The Texan of the Year will be announced next Friday, December 14. Between now and then, the Texas Progressive Alliance will announce its list of Texans whose contributions to the progressive cause it believed worthy of special recognition. This begins today, with the announcement of the Texas Progressive Alliance's Silver Stars. Starting Monday, four additional "Gold Stars" will be announced followed by the TOY on Friday.

Without further ado, here are the 2007 Texas Progressive Alliance Silver Stars (in alphabetical order):

Texas Ranger Brian Burzynski. It has been said that persistence is as much a virtue as patience. Inasmuch as that is so, it is also true that persistence pays off. In the case of Texas Ranger Brian Burzynski, persistence also saved thousands of Texas children from a certain Hell at the Texas Youth Commission. For nearly two years, starting in 2005, Burzynski investigated allegations of sexual misconduct in Texas' juvenile prison system. He was rebuffed by state authorities, local prosecutors, and even the United States Department of Justice. In spite of these rebuffs, Burzynski continued to push his case--investigating, making noise, not letting go, and never taking 'no' for an answer. The end result? It broke open one of the largest criminal justice scandals in the history of Texas and brought forward a flood of legislative reforms, and victims. For this and more, the Texas Progressive Alliance is pleased to confer upon Ranger Brian Burzynski a 2007 Texas Progressive Alliance Silver Star.

Hank Gilbert. When Hank Gilbert's race for agriculture commissioner ended last November, he kept on going. During his 2006 campaign, Gilbert promised Texans that--win or lose--he wouldcontinue to fight against toll roads, mandatory animal ID legislation, and international corporations that threatened the citizens of Texas. Gilbert organized a Texas Independence Day March on Austin. Working with farmers, ranchers, Democratic activists, and disillusioned landowners, brought nearly 1,000 Texans to Austin to testify against the Trans Texas Corridor at a session of the Texas Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security the day before the march. Thousands more Texans showed up the next day to continue the fight. Gilbert has been instrumental in forming a statewide umbrella organization of anti-toll groups to continue the fight against toll-enabling legislation. As a director for Texans Uniting for Reform and Freedom, he continues to travel the state and nation speaking out against the takeover of taxpayer funded infrastructure by private interests. For this and more, the Texas Progressive Alliance proudly names Hank Gilbert recipient of a 2007 Texas Progressive Alliance Silver Star.

Congressman Ciro Rodriguez. In 2006, Ciro Rodriguez was the "come back kid" of Texas Politics, winning a seat in congress after a runoff about the time the Texan of the Year for 2006 was announced. This year, Rodriguez took office as part of the first Democratic congress in nearly a generation, and has served his San Antonio-based district honorably. His race is considered one of national Republicans' top targets, although Rodriguez's constituent services and his support from Democratic Leaders like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi will no doubt help him retain the district.

Texas Bloggers Who Made A Difference. This year, for the first time, Texas Bloggers determined that some of their own were worthy of special recognition for their work during 2007: John Cobarruvias (Bay Area Houston Blog); Vince Leibowitz (Capitol Annex); Edmundo "Xicano Power" Roca (XicanoPwr); and Sharon Wilson (TxSharon of BlueDaze). A note on each blogger:

John Cobarruvias has almost single handedly changed the way Texas legislators use and report their campaign/officeholder expenses. Because he has held their feet to the fire through his Spending Campaign Cash series, organizing a group of volunteers to file complaints against offending legislators and urging media to report on spending abuses, legislators have cleaned up their acts. The Texas Ethics Commission has issued written reminders to legislators about the very problems with reporting expenses that Cobarruvias uncovered.

Vince Leibowitz. As the 80th Session of the Texas Legislature ended in turmoil--with parliamentarians resigning, a walk-out, and two stooges of House Speaker Tom Craddick on the dais as officers of the Texas House, Leibowitz decided that the whole story of those final days wasn't being told and started digging. Through public information requests, he uncovered a sheaf of documents from House Speaker Tom Craddick's office that helped piece together exactly what happened in those final hours. No main-stream media outlet had dug into this, and Leibowitz's work broke new ground and proved that House Speaker Tom Craddick's actions were the premeditated acts of a Speaker on the edge.

Edmundo Rocha. Blending lends heavy-handed social critiques, local and national politics, and a heaping dose of common sense in his blog, Edmundo Rocha tackles heavy topics like imigration, teenage pregnancy, racial and gender politics, and backs up everything with a sense of style and spirit. With a loyal and unwavering audience (his Texan of the Year nomination, in fact, was suggested in the comments of a blog by one of Edmundo's readers), Rocha has rapidly become one of the state's most prominent Latino bloggers. No issue is too tough, and none taboo for this blogger.
Sharon Wilson. Most Texans don't know what the Texas Railroad Commission is or does. In 2007, one Texas blogger changed that: Sharon Wilson. Wilson's reporting on the injection well drilling in the Barnett Shale region and its impact on the water quality and the environment in Wise County and surrounding areas has been exceedingly important to bringing wider attention to the dangers this practice poses across the state. Wilson has nearly single-handedly stood up to large oil companies and made the companies and state agencies--including the Texas Railroad Commission--take notice. Relentless in her drive to educate the public and elected officials to the damage being done to the Texas environment, Wilson's investigative reporting and blogging is worthy of recognition.

Texas Legislative Study Group. The policy clearinhouse for Progressives, the Texas Legislative Study Group is full of unsung heroes. Policy analysts who help Legislators keep up with the more than 50 bills that come up a day in the Texas House, the Texas Legislative Study Group and its policy analysts could perhaps be considered the most important behind-the-scenes players in the legislative process when it comes to safeguarding progressive principles. Legislators carry their reports around on the House floor like bibles. Their arguments against the Appropriations Bill, some versions of Jessica Law, and the Castle Doctrine were masterful. Also important to note is that the brilliant minds behind the work of the LSG aren't aged policy veterans, but rather among the best Texas minds of more recent generations, "Generation X" in particular. The men and women who daily toil at the LSG are indeed the men and women who will shape Texas public policy for generations into the future.

TexBlog PAC. Started by just a handful of Texas progressive bloggers, TexBlog PAC has harnessed the energy of the online community. In a state with one of the largest netroots communities in America--and the most vibrant progressive blogosphere, TexBlog PAC is poised to build on victories bloggers helped happen in 2004 and 2006. Having already raised over $10,000 in its initial months, the PAC will play a key role for Democrats as we try to take back the House in 2008.

David Van Os. Following his defeat in the 2006 Attorney General's race, Van Os made good on his promise to "keep fighting 'em on ice." From helping groups like TURF in their fight against the private takeover of government infrastructure to helping workers who were intimidated when nooses started showing up in their workplace (securing the removal of both the noose and the supervisor), Van Os hasn't stopped fighting for working Texans. In addition, from musicians to probation officers to non-profit workers, Van Os has continued his life's work on behalf of the working men and women of Texas.

State Representative Mike Villarreal. In 2003, many were ready to write Mike Villarreal's political obituary. Fast forward to 2007, and Villarreal has become one of the Progressive leaders in the Texas House of Representatives. Authoring legislation that would have made created contribution limits for political candidates and an independent redistricting commission, Villarreal took a lead with these progressive issues. In addition, Villarreal took a lead on GLBT rights by authoring HB 900, which would have provided protections from discrimination in housing and employment based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression for the GLBT community. This, coupled with the compromise he sought to proffer when Republicans tried to take over the House and suspend the constitutional provision concerning the consideration of legislation early in the session, make Villarreal worthy of recognition.

TxDOT Continues Its Poverty Plead And Delays DFW Area Funding

Even after TxDOT just received a check from NTTA of $3.197 billion, the agency is withholding funds promised to help build DFW area road and bridge projects. CBS 11 is reporting that 3 major projects are not being funded at this time, due to a federal budget crisis effecting the cash strapped state agency.

 

2 of the projects are central to the Trinity River project in Dallas. $15 million was due to help build the 2nd Calatrava designed bridge over the river, which is now being withheld for one year. The bridge is slated to replace the aging current bridge I-30 uses to transverse the Trinity. It is also delaying another $50 million for connector roads to get to the 1st Calatrava designed bridge. As one can imagine, the Dallas City Council has been caught off guard. As one can imagine, we were told just one month ago that all funding would be in place if only we allowed that toll road to be built in the flood plain. Foiled again!

 

Additionally, George Bush Turnpike (an NTTA toll road) will have to do without its $181 million promise from TxDOT to build an interchange between it and I-30 on the eastern side of the metroplex.

 

We're doing some simple math here, and those projects total $246 million. Quite a bit smaller than the $3.197 billion they just had handed to them by our local toll agency. We think it's time we got some of that dough you owe us, or we might have to travel to Austin and perform an old school shakedown. Put out a call to your local politicians and tell them to grow a set and get the DOT-heads to give up the cash.

This Week In Stupid

Hearing the excitment of the upcoming Spice Girls reunion, a Wisconsin man broke into the Naughty Novelties store and stole a talking blow up doll . Victoria Beckham could not be reached for comment, as her lips are tightly fused in an open circle.

 

A Florida man left his 3 month old son at home, while he could run errands, which included robbing his local grocery store . The baby was later found with a severe case of diaper rash and watching an episode of Maury Povich paternity testing.

 

Nothing says Happy Hanukkah like a Christmas Ham. A New York City establishment was photographed complete with "Perfect for Chanukah" signs on their deli case . Beaumont residents can not rejoice in knowing they are not the only ones.

 

Texas Progressive Alliance Endorses Dan Barrett For HD 97

If you'd like to donate to Dan's campaign, click here.

TEXAS PROGRESSIVE ALLIANCE ENDORSES DAN BARRETT IN TEXROOTS 2007 SLATE

AUSTIN--The Texas Progressive Alliance, a confederation of political blogs, bloggers, and online activists from across Texas, today announced its endorsement of Dan Barrett (D-Fort Worth) in the special election runoff in House District 97.

"We believe that Dan Barrett will make an excellent addition to the growing numbers of Democrats in the Texas House of Representatives," said Vince Leibowitz, Chair of the Texas Progressive Alliance. "We are pleased to offer him our support," he continued.

In early November, Barrett led a field of seven candidates vying for the seat vacated by retiring State Rep. Anna Mowery, a longtime ally of Texas House Speaker Tom Craddick.

"I believe the voters in House District 97 are ready for a change and will realize that Dan Barrett will be no rubber-stamp for Tom Craddick's regime and policies," said Charles Kuffner of Houston, the vice chair of the Alliance.

This is the second year for the Alliance, which is made up of more than 50 bloggers representing more than 30 of the state's most widely read progressive political blogs, to endorse candidates through its TexRoots program.

The TexRoots program helps bring blog readers and online activists to specific candidates and races where their funds can make an immediate difference. The Alliance endorsed three candidates for its TexRoots 2006 rollout during the mid-term elections including State Rep. Juan Garcia (D-Corpus Christi).

Texas Blog Roundup

It's late Sunday, and that means it's time for another edition of the Texas Progressive Alliance's weekly blog round-up. This week's round-up is compiled by Vince from Capitol Annex.

Also, as a special note, the Texas Progressive Alliance would like to announce that the time has come to announce its 2007 Texan of the Year. This year's Texan of the Year process will be a little different than in years past. We've got a full slate of Texas Silver Stars (our Honorable Mentions), and four runner-ups (Texas Gold Stars) and, of course, a Texan of the Year. We'll start by announcing the Texas Silver Stars on Friday, December 7. Then, each day from December 10 through December 13 we'll announce a Gold Star, followed by our Texan of the Year on Friday, December 14. So be sure to check your favorite TPA blog starting this coming Friday to see who our picks are for our Texan of the Year!

What happens when it rains and containers holding lethal chemicals overflow into creek beds? See How Are Injection Well and Gas Coupling Inspections Alike? for another example of RRC negligence that puts Texans at risk. Brought to you by TXsharon at Bluedaze.

Refinish69 from Doing My Part For The Left shares his memories of loved one lost to AIDS in his World AIDS Day diary and podcast.

Gary at Easter Lemming Liberal News observes the devolving of Texas Education.

Jaye at Winding Road asks "What if abortion is outlawed in a Republican administration?"

Xanthippas at Three Wise Men informs you that when it's the National Football League versus Big Cable, the only loser is you.

Vince at Capitol Annex takes a look at the Interim Charges for committees of the Texas House in the 80th Legislature in three posts, as well as Tom Craddick's views on the charges.

The Texas GOP is gearing up a sophisticated voter suppression effort for the 2008 elections. PDiddie at Brains and Eggs forwards the Lone Star Project's comprehensive report.

The Texas Cloverleaf tells us that TxDOT can no longer plead poverty! It just received a Christmas gift of $3.197 Billion from NTTA for the rights to build SH 121 Toll.

Hal at Half Empty reports that the Republican Party of Fort Bend County has taken a radical shift to the right as neoconservative evangelicals have taken over their county party leadership.

Lightseeker at Texas Kaos looks at the mess Texas Education Agency has become with TEA: We must remain neutral on junk science theory. This should be enough to make parents either vote or move to get their kids out of the Texas school systems.

Matt Glazer at Burnt Orange Report talks about the Texas Internet Revolution and the good publicity TexBlog PAC has been getting recently.

Stunned about the tuition increases at UT Law? So was Closet Purist at McBlogger who takes a detailed look at how UT Law compares to Harvard and Yale and asks, what do you get for the money?

You may have heard the right-wing echo chamber saying that the surge is working in Iraq, or that things are going better now. Texas Toad at North Texas Liberal gives us the real deal in "Some Perspective on the Surge."

CouldBeTrue of South Texas Chisme notes that federal rules allow ferry
security guards to sleep on the job. Republicans say they care about security, but prove they don't.

Off the Kuff exercises his privilege as a blogger to nitpick an article about the rise of the netroots in Texas.

Eye On Williamson takes a look at the retirement of Rep. Mike Krusee in Why We Won't Have Mike Krusee To Kick Around Anymore.

TxDOT Can No Longer Plead Poverty

NTTA presented TxDOT with a Texas sized check of $3.197 billion for the rights to design and build the Hwy 121 toll project in Collin, Dallas, and Denton counties. The money was part of an agreement that NTTA build the road, rather than outsourcing it to Spanish consortium Cintra for less money.

The Citizens of North Texas get that check? We may hold them to that. Daddy needs to pay some bills.

Of course, you know we hate toll roads, but at least the money is staying here in Texas rather than heading to Spain. And by 2012 we will have a highway that will help alleviate a great deal of traffic in the DFW area. If anyone has ever driven SH 121 in its current state, you will know how much it sucks ass. But now, in the name of progress, Carrollton and The Colony regional drivers will have to suffer with the North Dallas Tollway, George Bush Turnpike (also a toll road), and 121 Toll surrounding their cities. Doesn't that gas tax look better and better each day?