Tonight listen to on KEOS 89.1FM from 6:00pm – 7:00pm for this week’s edition of Biased Transmission.
On tonight’s show our first guests will be Charles Baish and Amelia Mayer from the Human Rights Coalition; topics of conversation will include what type of activism and what causes the coalition is supporting. Also, we will be discussing the recent protest of the T. Don Hutto detention facility in Taylor, Texas, and why the coalition is protesting the detention of immigrant families from fifty different countries.
Then our second guest will be Victor Agosto, a soldier stationed at Fort Hood who has refused to deploy to Afghanistan. After returning home from a tour of duty in Iraq, Agosto faces the possibility of a court-martial for refusing to take part in what he considers an unjust and immoral occupation. We will talk about his experiences as both a war veteran and a war resister, and what the future may hold for him.
Tune in every Wednesday night to hear Ann, Srikanth, Danny, and Teddy on Biased Transmission. For more information about Biased Transmission visit our Facebook page, or listen to previous episodes on our internet archive.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Video Lunch: The Hidden Cost of War
In 2003 Donald Rumsfeld estimated a war with Iraq would cost $60 billion. Five years later, the cost of Iraq war operations is over 10 times that figure. So what's behind the ballooning dollar signs? Joseph E. Stiglitz and Linda J. Bilme's exhaustedly researched book, "The Three Trillion Dollar War: The True Cost of the Iraq Conflict," breaks down the price tag, from current debts to the unseen costs we'll pay for years to come.
Local News: Representative Fred Brown is on the Couch
Brown Lands on the Couch
By Janet Phelps
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
State Rep. Fred Brown was among 10 legislators who made the 'Furniture' category in the July issue of Texas Monthly magazine's semi-annual Best and Worst Legislators feature.
The College Station Republican on Tuesday brushed off the magazine as a liberally-slanted publication after editors put him in the category of being as useless as furniture.
"You've got to be kidding me," Brown said upon hearing of his designation. "I've had a great legislative session. I got all the legislation passed that was important to our district, and because I'm not liberal enough to get noticed by Texas Monthly is no concern of mine because as long as I keep my constituents happy in Bryan-College Station and do what they expect me to, I'm doing well."
The term "furniture," as explained in the magazine, refers to lawmakers who are inactive --"indistinguishable from their desks, chairs and inkwells" -- and the least consequential.
The magazine has compiled listings since 1973 after each legislative session. Other local representatives have been named on the list, although this is Brown's first turn.
In 2007, Sen. Steve Ogden, R-Bryan, and Rep. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, both were cited as among the "best."
The lists are compiled by Paul Burka, Texas Monthly's senior executive editor, and Patricia Kilday Hart. They cover the House and Senate, respectively.
Burka said Brown, who has served in the House of Representatives since 1999, has been active in the past on issues that are important to him, but "there wasn't anything like that this time."
Burka said he and Hart typically make their own lists of people who are contenders for the furniture list, then "I'll just go around and check a little bit," he said.
One peremptory challenge is enough to keep someone off the list, he said.
Brown said he had "no idea" why he was named.
"The Texas Monthly is pretty liberal, so for them to say nice things about a conservative is pretty unusual," Brown said, adding that he maintained that belief despite the fact half of the legislators on the furniture list are democrats.
Brown pointed to several bills he authored or sponsored during the past session -- one that will allow night classes at colleges and another that will extend victim confidentiality in child sexual abuse cases to civil courts. A third bill that would have required university health care centers to accept private insurance was vetoed by Gov. Rick Perry.
Although Brown said there were "about nine" pieces of legislation he helped to craft or pass that would positively affect his constituents, he could name only three and referred other questions to a staff member.
Brown pointed to high marks he received from Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, which maintains the Empower Texans Web site. The group recently gave him a high score on its Fiscal Responsibility Index with a score of 90 out of 100.
Burka, who has posted several responses from lawmakers and readers on his Texas Monthly blog, responded online to a critic who called the listings as "little more than a front for left-wing ideological agendas."
"We have liberal readers, and we have conservative readers. Each of these groups expect[s] us to be fair. The Best and Worst Legislators story could not have flourished for 36 years if our audience perceived us to be biased in one direction or the other," he wrote.
On Tuesday, Burka said both 'furniture' and 'worst legislators' are bad spots to land on, but most lawmakers prefer to be named 'worst' over the title Brown was given.
"To me it's hard to distinguish between them. I think in terms of being able to argue against it -- it's easier to argue against the worst list," he said, adding, "I don't know that I'd want to be on either one."
Published on Wednesday, June 24, 2009
By Janet Phelps
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
State Rep. Fred Brown was among 10 legislators who made the 'Furniture' category in the July issue of Texas Monthly magazine's semi-annual Best and Worst Legislators feature.
The College Station Republican on Tuesday brushed off the magazine as a liberally-slanted publication after editors put him in the category of being as useless as furniture.
"You've got to be kidding me," Brown said upon hearing of his designation. "I've had a great legislative session. I got all the legislation passed that was important to our district, and because I'm not liberal enough to get noticed by Texas Monthly is no concern of mine because as long as I keep my constituents happy in Bryan-College Station and do what they expect me to, I'm doing well."
The term "furniture," as explained in the magazine, refers to lawmakers who are inactive --"indistinguishable from their desks, chairs and inkwells" -- and the least consequential.
The magazine has compiled listings since 1973 after each legislative session. Other local representatives have been named on the list, although this is Brown's first turn.
In 2007, Sen. Steve Ogden, R-Bryan, and Rep. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, both were cited as among the "best."
The lists are compiled by Paul Burka, Texas Monthly's senior executive editor, and Patricia Kilday Hart. They cover the House and Senate, respectively.
Burka said Brown, who has served in the House of Representatives since 1999, has been active in the past on issues that are important to him, but "there wasn't anything like that this time."
Burka said he and Hart typically make their own lists of people who are contenders for the furniture list, then "I'll just go around and check a little bit," he said.
One peremptory challenge is enough to keep someone off the list, he said.
Brown said he had "no idea" why he was named.
"The Texas Monthly is pretty liberal, so for them to say nice things about a conservative is pretty unusual," Brown said, adding that he maintained that belief despite the fact half of the legislators on the furniture list are democrats.
Brown pointed to several bills he authored or sponsored during the past session -- one that will allow night classes at colleges and another that will extend victim confidentiality in child sexual abuse cases to civil courts. A third bill that would have required university health care centers to accept private insurance was vetoed by Gov. Rick Perry.
Although Brown said there were "about nine" pieces of legislation he helped to craft or pass that would positively affect his constituents, he could name only three and referred other questions to a staff member.
Brown pointed to high marks he received from Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, which maintains the Empower Texans Web site. The group recently gave him a high score on its Fiscal Responsibility Index with a score of 90 out of 100.
Burka, who has posted several responses from lawmakers and readers on his Texas Monthly blog, responded online to a critic who called the listings as "little more than a front for left-wing ideological agendas."
"We have liberal readers, and we have conservative readers. Each of these groups expect[s] us to be fair. The Best and Worst Legislators story could not have flourished for 36 years if our audience perceived us to be biased in one direction or the other," he wrote.
On Tuesday, Burka said both 'furniture' and 'worst legislators' are bad spots to land on, but most lawmakers prefer to be named 'worst' over the title Brown was given.
"To me it's hard to distinguish between them. I think in terms of being able to argue against it -- it's easier to argue against the worst list," he said, adding, "I don't know that I'd want to be on either one."
Published on Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Video Lunch: Reverend Jim Rigby Speaks Out Against T. Don Hutto
On World Refugee Day June 20th 2009 a group of concerned citizens (including Rev. Jim Rigby) from Texas gathered at the Private, For Profit Prison, T. Don Hutto "Family Residential Center" in Taylor, TX to voice their concerns about this corrupt prison industrial complex that is spreading. This vigil was organized by a coalition that includes Williamson County residents, the Border Ambassadors, Amnesty International, and the national chapter of LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens).
Local News: Local Children Learn About Green Energy
Texas A&M Researcher Teaches Kids Energy Conservation
Bryan students learn hands-on conservation techniques at weeklong camp
By: Alex Worsham
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
A group of 36 Bryan middle-schoolers are learning the essentials of energy efficiency and alternative energy this week in a new program at Davila Middle School.
Camp Energy was designed to give sixth, seventh and eighth graders hands-on experience with energy conservation tchniques, said Don Gilman, creator of the program and Texas A&M assistant research engineer.
"We hope we will produce students who are interested in it at a personal level and apply it to their lives, possibly as a career," said Bryan ISD secondary science coordinator Debbie Richards.
It is imperative that kids learn this concept now, Gilman said.
"If our parents had learned about it at that age, we wouldn't have the level of problems have now," Gilman said.
The camp will explore a different concept each day this week.
Camp Energy teacher Susan Hammond will teach an introduction to the different forms of energy, and energy transformations.
"We're going to do an energy survey to find out how efficient the school is," Hammond said. "The students will find out different ways that energy conservation can take place in a large building, compared to a small building such as their homes."
The students need to apply this knowledge in the future to make the most of our resources, Hammond said.
"As our energy resources change, the cost of energy changes over time and energy technology improves, we want the students to find the best uses of our energy resources and conserve energy for future generations," Hammond said.
The students will also learn about heat conservation, alternative fuels, wind energy and nuclear energy.
"Friday, the kids will build solar cars and have a solar barbeque," Richards said. "It should be a lot of fun."
The students will use a kit to see how different buildings perform in terms of energy consumption. The kit includes a solar window screen donated by EnerCon, a solar domestic hot water demonstration system with a thermal storage tank, residential wall panels with green fiber and pink insulation donated by GreenFiber, residential roof panels with normal roofing material and a radiant barrier, SIP roof/wall panels donated by EH Systems, a solar PV system, a heat lamp and reflector and an incandescent and CFL bulb display.
"The kids are going to see how the different building materials perform with a 300-watt heat lamp on them," Gilman said.
After the students experiment with the materials in the classroom, they will apply their knowledge to their own building, walking around with a checklist and noting what needs to change.
The students are expected to follow this procedure in their own homes, Gilman said.
"[Camp Energy] is taking a different approach to teaching science in middle schools: showing career opportunities in the field trips, the school gets an energy assessment, and the kids will go home to their parents teaching them what they've learned," Gilman said.
The students will go on three field trips to five different venues, including Bryan Texas Utilities.
"They're going to the pilot plant [at Texas A&M] that converts chicken poop and waste paper into gasoline components," Gilman said. "It's recycling at its utmost."
Camp Energy will hopefully be the start of a larger effort to teach children about energy conservation, Richards said.
"Our purpose in the summer camp is a pre-trial to align the activities to the state curriculum," she said. "We want to use it as a supplement during the school year."
The first step is for the program to expand to other school districts, Gillman said.
"An enhanced version of this [program] national, that's my goal," he said.
Published on Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Bryan students learn hands-on conservation techniques at weeklong camp
By: Alex Worsham
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
A group of 36 Bryan middle-schoolers are learning the essentials of energy efficiency and alternative energy this week in a new program at Davila Middle School.
Camp Energy was designed to give sixth, seventh and eighth graders hands-on experience with energy conservation tchniques, said Don Gilman, creator of the program and Texas A&M assistant research engineer.
"We hope we will produce students who are interested in it at a personal level and apply it to their lives, possibly as a career," said Bryan ISD secondary science coordinator Debbie Richards.
It is imperative that kids learn this concept now, Gilman said.
"If our parents had learned about it at that age, we wouldn't have the level of problems have now," Gilman said.
The camp will explore a different concept each day this week.
Camp Energy teacher Susan Hammond will teach an introduction to the different forms of energy, and energy transformations.
"We're going to do an energy survey to find out how efficient the school is," Hammond said. "The students will find out different ways that energy conservation can take place in a large building, compared to a small building such as their homes."
The students need to apply this knowledge in the future to make the most of our resources, Hammond said.
"As our energy resources change, the cost of energy changes over time and energy technology improves, we want the students to find the best uses of our energy resources and conserve energy for future generations," Hammond said.
The students will also learn about heat conservation, alternative fuels, wind energy and nuclear energy.
"Friday, the kids will build solar cars and have a solar barbeque," Richards said. "It should be a lot of fun."
The students will use a kit to see how different buildings perform in terms of energy consumption. The kit includes a solar window screen donated by EnerCon, a solar domestic hot water demonstration system with a thermal storage tank, residential wall panels with green fiber and pink insulation donated by GreenFiber, residential roof panels with normal roofing material and a radiant barrier, SIP roof/wall panels donated by EH Systems, a solar PV system, a heat lamp and reflector and an incandescent and CFL bulb display.
"The kids are going to see how the different building materials perform with a 300-watt heat lamp on them," Gilman said.
After the students experiment with the materials in the classroom, they will apply their knowledge to their own building, walking around with a checklist and noting what needs to change.
The students are expected to follow this procedure in their own homes, Gilman said.
"[Camp Energy] is taking a different approach to teaching science in middle schools: showing career opportunities in the field trips, the school gets an energy assessment, and the kids will go home to their parents teaching them what they've learned," Gilman said.
The students will go on three field trips to five different venues, including Bryan Texas Utilities.
"They're going to the pilot plant [at Texas A&M] that converts chicken poop and waste paper into gasoline components," Gilman said. "It's recycling at its utmost."
Camp Energy will hopefully be the start of a larger effort to teach children about energy conservation, Richards said.
"Our purpose in the summer camp is a pre-trial to align the activities to the state curriculum," she said. "We want to use it as a supplement during the school year."
The first step is for the program to expand to other school districts, Gillman said.
"An enhanced version of this [program] national, that's my goal," he said.
Published on Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
Free the Children: Protest of the T. Don Hutto Detention Facility
A crowd gathered together on a hot Texas afternoon; people traveled from all over the state to stand together. Over fifty different organizations where represented, and people from all different cultural backgrounds gathered in solidarity. There were hundreds of signs and banners, and an American flag blew in the hot summer breeze. The organizer, Jay Johnson-Castro, spoke to the group that had gathered in Heritage Park and talked about how they could affect change.
As the march came to the other side of the bridge the protesters turned onto Walnut Street, and walked through a low income neighborhood. Then the protesters marched through a public baseball field; a field that is within view of the playground area of the detention facility. The imprisoned children must literally watch free children play baseball. It was in front of this field where the marched paused, and acknowledged the children that are incarcerated in the detention facility. The protesters then marched around the facility meeting the Cesar Chavez delegation and stopping at the front gates of the facility.
It was in front of the T. Don Hutto detention facility that the protest took place in blazing heat; several activist spoke at a make shift stage. Vehicles lined the road in front of the detention facility and several cars that drove through the protest gave approving honks and thumbs up.
The focus of the protest was the children that are incarcerated inside the facility and many of the protest signs where asking for the children to be freed. During one portion of the protest Johnson-Castro spoke about the United Nations Rights of the Child, which only the United States and Somalia have not ratified. Protesters held up signs with free the children written in fifty different languages, representing the over fifty different nationalities held inside the facility.
Some of the speakers included: Rosa Rosales, President of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC); Antonio Diaz, from the Texas Indigenous Council; Jaime Martinez, from the Cesar Chavez March for Justice Foundation; Gabriel Valesquez, President of Inner City Advocates; Daniel San Miguel, from the Brown Berets; Tony Mandujano, from the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement; Jim Rigby, Minister of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.
There was some media in the crowd; KPFT 90.1FM Houston (Pacifica Radio) and the Independent Media Center of Houston was covering the protest. An Austin area twenty-four hour news station, Channel 8, covered the events, and posted an article about the protest. There was also a reporter from the Austin-American Statesman; however, there has not been a story posted or any other coverage about the event.
After almost three hours the protest ended. Everyone at the protest had the freedom to drive home, however, for the detainees inside the complex freedom is only an abstract concept.
The march began on the corner of Main and 4th streets, and lead by a police escort they marched to the detention facility. Over three hundred people marched down Main Street, most holding signs and most chanting to free the children. As the protested marched over the bridge that passes over the railroad tracks, the detention facility was barely visible in the distance. Hidden on the “other side of the tracks” behind a low income neighborhood, the detention facility is far from view of the residents of Taylor.
As the march came to the other side of the bridge the protesters turned onto Walnut Street, and walked through a low income neighborhood. Then the protesters marched through a public baseball field; a field that is within view of the playground area of the detention facility. The imprisoned children must literally watch free children play baseball. It was in front of this field where the marched paused, and acknowledged the children that are incarcerated in the detention facility. The protesters then marched around the facility meeting the Cesar Chavez delegation and stopping at the front gates of the facility. It was in front of the T. Don Hutto detention facility that the protest took place in blazing heat; several activist spoke at a make shift stage. Vehicles lined the road in front of the detention facility and several cars that drove through the protest gave approving honks and thumbs up.
The focus of the protest was the children that are incarcerated inside the facility and many of the protest signs where asking for the children to be freed. During one portion of the protest Johnson-Castro spoke about the United Nations Rights of the Child, which only the United States and Somalia have not ratified. Protesters held up signs with free the children written in fifty different languages, representing the over fifty different nationalities held inside the facility.
Some of the speakers included: Rosa Rosales, President of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC); Antonio Diaz, from the Texas Indigenous Council; Jaime Martinez, from the Cesar Chavez March for Justice Foundation; Gabriel Valesquez, President of Inner City Advocates; Daniel San Miguel, from the Brown Berets; Tony Mandujano, from the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement; Jim Rigby, Minister of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.There was some media in the crowd; KPFT 90.1FM Houston (Pacifica Radio) and the Independent Media Center of Houston was covering the protest. An Austin area twenty-four hour news station, Channel 8, covered the events, and posted an article about the protest. There was also a reporter from the Austin-American Statesman; however, there has not been a story posted or any other coverage about the event.
After almost three hours the protest ended. Everyone at the protest had the freedom to drive home, however, for the detainees inside the complex freedom is only an abstract concept.
Video Lunch: T. Don Hutto-A Family Prison: Part I
Taylor, TX is home to CCA's for-profit family detention center. Grassroots Leadership documents the T. Don Hutto detention facility and its impact on children and their families.
Local News: Brazos County Searching for New Justice of the Peace
Search For New County JP Begins
By Erika Jaramillo
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
Brazos County Judge Randy Sims said Sunday that it's too early in the process to decide from the small pool of applicants who will take over an unexpired term for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4.
He said he's sure of one thing though: He wants to do background checks on those who apply.
"I need to check with the commissioners but I don't want to have the same situation like this one to happen again," Sims said.
Precinct 4 JP Ramiro Quintero resigned Friday morning, less than 24 hours after he was arrested on a felony charge of tampering with evidence and two misdemeanor charges -- unauthorized practicing of law and accepting gifts as a public service.
Quintero -- who is not an attorney and, as a judge, is not allowed to give advice to people in his courtroom -- is accused of giving legal recommendations to a woman trying to file a small claims suit in his court. He's also charged with accepting a payment from the woman and then later -- after being confronted by authorities -- flushing the evidence down the toilet.
Sims said he's received at least five phone calls inquiring about the position, but he anticipates more since Quintero's resignation isn't official until 5 p.m. Monday.
"[Today] we will post a meeting with the commissioners and discuss what kind of qualifications the court is looking for," Sims said, adding that the selection will be made by the commissioners court, not just by him. He said the qualities he's looking for include honesty and integrity.
All applicants must be at least 18 years old and have lived in the U.S. for 10 years and in Texas for seven years, but also must reside in Precinct 4. A justice of peace in Texas is not required to have a law license, nor do he or she have to have a high school diploma.
Sims said he hopes the commissioner's court can pick a new judge by the end of next week. In the meantime, other JPs are sharing the job duties.
Published on Monday, June 22, 2009
By Erika Jaramillo
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
Brazos County Judge Randy Sims said Sunday that it's too early in the process to decide from the small pool of applicants who will take over an unexpired term for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 4.
He said he's sure of one thing though: He wants to do background checks on those who apply.
"I need to check with the commissioners but I don't want to have the same situation like this one to happen again," Sims said.
Precinct 4 JP Ramiro Quintero resigned Friday morning, less than 24 hours after he was arrested on a felony charge of tampering with evidence and two misdemeanor charges -- unauthorized practicing of law and accepting gifts as a public service.
Quintero -- who is not an attorney and, as a judge, is not allowed to give advice to people in his courtroom -- is accused of giving legal recommendations to a woman trying to file a small claims suit in his court. He's also charged with accepting a payment from the woman and then later -- after being confronted by authorities -- flushing the evidence down the toilet.
Sims said he's received at least five phone calls inquiring about the position, but he anticipates more since Quintero's resignation isn't official until 5 p.m. Monday.
"[Today] we will post a meeting with the commissioners and discuss what kind of qualifications the court is looking for," Sims said, adding that the selection will be made by the commissioners court, not just by him. He said the qualities he's looking for include honesty and integrity.
All applicants must be at least 18 years old and have lived in the U.S. for 10 years and in Texas for seven years, but also must reside in Precinct 4. A justice of peace in Texas is not required to have a law license, nor do he or she have to have a high school diploma.
Sims said he hopes the commissioner's court can pick a new judge by the end of next week. In the meantime, other JPs are sharing the job duties.
Published on Monday, June 22, 2009
Texas Progressive Alliance Roundup – June 22, 2009
It's Monday, the day after the first day of summer, and it's time for another Texas Progressive Alliance blog roundup.
President Obama, Bill White, and John Sharp are all in the same sinking DOMA boat. The Texas Cloverleaf comes off of hiatus to tell you why.
strong>CouldBeTrue from South Texas Chisme cheers the impeachment of Judge Kent. 4 articles passed without a single nay. Lets hope the Senate is through with him by August.
BossKitty at TruthHugger finally signed up for Twitter to get updates on the Iran protests. What a day of drama and emotion it brought, Icons and Martyrs All Day On Twitter Watching Iran. I was really meaning to highlight the regressive influences causing upheaval in personal lives, especially in Texas. Immigration Policies and Gay Rights – Contradictions
Unlike Nevada Republican Senator John Ensign, Neil at Texas Liberal makes a promise he'll keep - He'll never cheat on his wife! Also, Neil sings the Damned's Wait For The Blackout at the Houston Ship Channel.
Off the Kuff takes a look, then a second look, at the bills Governor Perry vetoed.
WCNews at Eye On Williamson knows in order to solve big problems it takes leadership, Who is willing to lead, who has enough LBJ in them?.
Castle Hills Democrats heard candidates Tom Schieffer, John Sharp, Bill White, and Neil Durrance speak at the Dual County Fish Fry in north Texas. The blogger reviews their messages--and reports on feedback from the Dems in the audience.
WhosPlayin investigated the claim by a former mayoral candidate that the city is hiring illegal aliens for its road projects because one of its contractors doesn't yet use the E-Verify program.
Teddy at Left of College Station writes about escorting at Planned Parenthood and how what happens in Kansas doesn't stay in Kansas. Today on Left of College Station: a report from the T. Don Hutto Residential Detention Facility and the protest on Saturday (including exclusive photographs).
Big Gas wants you to believe that regulating hydraulic fracturing is a state's rights issue. The truth: Only one state in the US regulates hydraulic fracturing. TXsharon busts the Big Gas bubble again on Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Citizen groups opposed to new coal plants being built in Robertson County and near Victoria were given a chance to intervene last week when two of the 12 newly proposed coal plants in Texas had preliminary hearings for their waste water permits. Check out the video over at Public Citizen's Texas Vox.
Over at TexasKaos, Libby Shaw tells us that Dumb, Self-serving Politicians Make Dumb, Self-serving Decisions. What a surprise that Governor Goodhair takes the starring role in this little drama. Check out the details.
Do you love the Real Housewives on Bravo? Were you a little less than impressed by the NJ version? So was Barfly over at McBlogger.
President Obama, Bill White, and John Sharp are all in the same sinking DOMA boat. The Texas Cloverleaf comes off of hiatus to tell you why.
strong>CouldBeTrue from South Texas Chisme cheers the impeachment of Judge Kent. 4 articles passed without a single nay. Lets hope the Senate is through with him by August.
BossKitty at TruthHugger finally signed up for Twitter to get updates on the Iran protests. What a day of drama and emotion it brought, Icons and Martyrs All Day On Twitter Watching Iran. I was really meaning to highlight the regressive influences causing upheaval in personal lives, especially in Texas. Immigration Policies and Gay Rights – Contradictions
Unlike Nevada Republican Senator John Ensign, Neil at Texas Liberal makes a promise he'll keep - He'll never cheat on his wife! Also, Neil sings the Damned's Wait For The Blackout at the Houston Ship Channel.
Off the Kuff takes a look, then a second look, at the bills Governor Perry vetoed.
WCNews at Eye On Williamson knows in order to solve big problems it takes leadership, Who is willing to lead, who has enough LBJ in them?.
Castle Hills Democrats heard candidates Tom Schieffer, John Sharp, Bill White, and Neil Durrance speak at the Dual County Fish Fry in north Texas. The blogger reviews their messages--and reports on feedback from the Dems in the audience.
WhosPlayin investigated the claim by a former mayoral candidate that the city is hiring illegal aliens for its road projects because one of its contractors doesn't yet use the E-Verify program.
Teddy at Left of College Station writes about escorting at Planned Parenthood and how what happens in Kansas doesn't stay in Kansas. Today on Left of College Station: a report from the T. Don Hutto Residential Detention Facility and the protest on Saturday (including exclusive photographs).
Big Gas wants you to believe that regulating hydraulic fracturing is a state's rights issue. The truth: Only one state in the US regulates hydraulic fracturing. TXsharon busts the Big Gas bubble again on Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Citizen groups opposed to new coal plants being built in Robertson County and near Victoria were given a chance to intervene last week when two of the 12 newly proposed coal plants in Texas had preliminary hearings for their waste water permits. Check out the video over at Public Citizen's Texas Vox.
Over at TexasKaos, Libby Shaw tells us that Dumb, Self-serving Politicians Make Dumb, Self-serving Decisions. What a surprise that Governor Goodhair takes the starring role in this little drama. Check out the details.
Do you love the Real Housewives on Bravo? Were you a little less than impressed by the NJ version? So was Barfly over at McBlogger.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Video Lunch: Bankrupt GM Begins Slashing Jobs
From the American News Project
General Motors has another day in bankruptcy court today - good news for lawyers. "Hundreds, if not thousands, of lawyers will attach themselves to some part of the proceedings to carve out some much-needed business," notes a recent article in The AmLaw Daily.
Meanwhile, the General Motors flameout - the fourth largest bankruptcy in the history of the country - has been a disaster for blue collar Americans working on assembly lines. Out of 123,000 North American GM workers, 20,000 are scheduled to lose their jobs.
GM's previous management has come under a lot of fire for running the company into the ground but with the American people owning a 60% stake in GM, one could argue that taxpayers will be the ones making the layoffs - and sending the jobs overseas.
According to Peter Whoriskey in the Washington Post , "the number of cars that GM sells in the United States and builds in Mexico, China and South Korea will roughly double." The Auto Task Force, appointed to oversee the process, is led by Wall Street financiers and seems intently focused on a single goal - turning a profit and getting stock prices to rise. It's an approach that has some people worried.
Local News: Central Texas Lobbying for Rail Funding
Officials Get in Line for Rail Funding
By Noelle Yaqoub
From the Temple Daily Telegram
Central Texas lawmakers are lining up to ask for transportation money as a congressional committee prepares a highway bill. Some of that money is for high-speed transit and public transportation needs.
U.S. Rep. John Carter, R-Round Rock, is requesting almost $391 million. The majority of that will go toward financing studies and construction of the Texas T-Bone in Central Texas.
“Congressman Carter has put in a transportation appropriations request for $350 million specifically for the Texas T-Bone,” said John Stone, communications director for Carter.
The transportation bill, which could reach $450 billion, is undergoing committee scrutiny this month and, if approved, will include money for projects over a six-year period.
Of some $660 million sought by Waco Democrat Chet Edwards, nearly two-thirds is for transportation or rail projects.
One of Edwards’ requests is money for a portion of the Texas T-Bone to connect Waco with Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Temple Mayor Bill Jones III has been a strong proponent of the project, and the Temple City Council has expressed support as well.
Earlier this week, Jones attended the American Public Transportation Association annual meeting, which had a focus on railways. Jones made a presentation on the Texas T-Bone plan.
“It was very well received,” Jones said. “Many people came and complimented us - Texas - on the plan and said that it made sense.”
Jones said the plan has the Temple-Killeen area as the hub for the Texas T-Bone.
On June 4, the Temple City Council approved the articles of incorporation and bylaws for the South Central High-Speed Rail and Transportation Authority Inc., a local government corporation whose purpose is to promote high-speed rail passenger service in Texas.
In April, the council decided to form the corporation, which is seeking a contract with the state to implement high-speed rail service through the city to other areas of the state.
Published on Friday, June 19, 2009
By Noelle Yaqoub
From the Temple Daily Telegram
Central Texas lawmakers are lining up to ask for transportation money as a congressional committee prepares a highway bill. Some of that money is for high-speed transit and public transportation needs.
U.S. Rep. John Carter, R-Round Rock, is requesting almost $391 million. The majority of that will go toward financing studies and construction of the Texas T-Bone in Central Texas.
“Congressman Carter has put in a transportation appropriations request for $350 million specifically for the Texas T-Bone,” said John Stone, communications director for Carter.
The transportation bill, which could reach $450 billion, is undergoing committee scrutiny this month and, if approved, will include money for projects over a six-year period.
Of some $660 million sought by Waco Democrat Chet Edwards, nearly two-thirds is for transportation or rail projects.
One of Edwards’ requests is money for a portion of the Texas T-Bone to connect Waco with Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Temple Mayor Bill Jones III has been a strong proponent of the project, and the Temple City Council has expressed support as well.
Earlier this week, Jones attended the American Public Transportation Association annual meeting, which had a focus on railways. Jones made a presentation on the Texas T-Bone plan.
“It was very well received,” Jones said. “Many people came and complimented us - Texas - on the plan and said that it made sense.”
Jones said the plan has the Temple-Killeen area as the hub for the Texas T-Bone.
On June 4, the Temple City Council approved the articles of incorporation and bylaws for the South Central High-Speed Rail and Transportation Authority Inc., a local government corporation whose purpose is to promote high-speed rail passenger service in Texas.
In April, the council decided to form the corporation, which is seeking a contract with the state to implement high-speed rail service through the city to other areas of the state.
Published on Friday, June 19, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Local News: Steak and Wine
Third Annual Texas Reds and Grapes Festival
Live music, a steak cook-off and wine tasting highlight the events of the weekend.
By: Alex Worsham
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
More than 25,000 people are expected to sink their teeth into Texas steak and sip Texas wine in downtown Bryan this weekend.
The third annual Texas Reds and Grapes Festival, a free public event, will kick off Friday with live music.
"Midnight Express will open for Big Otis," said event coordinator Gwynne Shillings. "Big Otis is more of an all around R&B rock and Midnight Express is more classic rock."
More than 20 wineries from Texas will be competing in a taste-off.
"We'll have wineries from all over the hill country and Dallas and some from the bluebonnet trail," Shillings said. " You can purchase glasses of wine or you can purchase a bottle."
Every wine is worth tasting, she said.
"[The wineries] are all great. They're all different," Shillings said. "Of course we have the Messina Hof from here in town. They're here every year."
The Messina Hof staff will shuttle guests Saturday for free tours to the Messina Hof winery, located on Reliant Road in Bryan.
"We like to have a variety out there because not everybody has the same taste," Shillings said. "There's something there for everybody who likes wine."
More than 20 teams will compete at 11 a.m. Saturday in the steak cook-off, including last year's best of show winner Hometown Gang from Bryan, Texas.
Local celebrities, including elected officials, will be judging the steaks, said April Saginor, Bryan communications director and a 2008 steak cook-off judge.
"You don't know you can cook steak that differently. They were all very different," she said. "Some were cooked in wine or seasoned with different seasonings or have special cuts. They're all very unique."
A Kids Zone and Grape Stomp will be open until 7 p.m. Saturday. The Grape Stomp competition costs $5 and proceeds benefit the Texas Reds 4-H scholarship program. The champion stomp-off will begin at 6:30 p.m. and prizes include passes to Texas amusement parks.
"If you haven't done [the Grape Stomp], you should," said Darrell Lovelette, director of parks and recreation. "It's a lot of fun."
A big turnout is expected at the festival this year, Shillings said
"The first year was very successful; we brought in about 8,000 to 10,000 people," she said. "The second year was estimated about 18,000, and this year we expect 25,000."
The festival helps the city of Bryan economically, Lovelette said.
"This is a festival that really puts Bryan on the map," he said. "We market to all of Texas including the Houston area, to Dallas and Austin.".
Robert Earl Keen, a Texas singer, will be performing at 9 p.m. Saturday.
"I think it is catching on by word of mouth. Robert Earl Keen is drawing a lot of attention this year from outside Bryan," Saginor said. "I had a lady from Austin call me the other day asking about this event. She'd never heard of the festival but she wanted to take her husband to see [Keen] for Father's Day. It's a great way to introduce other people to our little town."
Father's Day has been a big help to draw attention to the festival this year, Saginor said.
"I think [Father's Day] enhances it," Saginor said. "It's a pretty good Father's Day gift to eat the food, drink some wine and enjoy the show."
The third annual Texas Reds and Grapes Festival, a free public event, will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at 10:30 p.m. Saturday. Admission to the event is free, but tickets must be purchased for the steak cook-off and wine tasting. Presale tickets are $15 and can be purchased at HEB-Bryan, JCody's , Clear Channel, Readfield Meats, Producers Co-Op, LaSalle Hotel, City Of Bryan Parks and Recreation, City of Bryan Municipal Office Building, B/CS Chamber of Commerce, B/CS Convention and Visitor Bureau, and Bryan Broadcasting. Tickets can also be bought at the festival for $20. Saturday morning the festival will begin with wine tasting at 10 a.m. For more information visit www.texasredsfestival.com
Published on Thursday, June 18, 2009
Live music, a steak cook-off and wine tasting highlight the events of the weekend.
By: Alex Worsham
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
More than 25,000 people are expected to sink their teeth into Texas steak and sip Texas wine in downtown Bryan this weekend.
The third annual Texas Reds and Grapes Festival, a free public event, will kick off Friday with live music.
"Midnight Express will open for Big Otis," said event coordinator Gwynne Shillings. "Big Otis is more of an all around R&B rock and Midnight Express is more classic rock."
More than 20 wineries from Texas will be competing in a taste-off.
"We'll have wineries from all over the hill country and Dallas and some from the bluebonnet trail," Shillings said. " You can purchase glasses of wine or you can purchase a bottle."
Every wine is worth tasting, she said.
"[The wineries] are all great. They're all different," Shillings said. "Of course we have the Messina Hof from here in town. They're here every year."
The Messina Hof staff will shuttle guests Saturday for free tours to the Messina Hof winery, located on Reliant Road in Bryan.
"We like to have a variety out there because not everybody has the same taste," Shillings said. "There's something there for everybody who likes wine."
More than 20 teams will compete at 11 a.m. Saturday in the steak cook-off, including last year's best of show winner Hometown Gang from Bryan, Texas.
Local celebrities, including elected officials, will be judging the steaks, said April Saginor, Bryan communications director and a 2008 steak cook-off judge.
"You don't know you can cook steak that differently. They were all very different," she said. "Some were cooked in wine or seasoned with different seasonings or have special cuts. They're all very unique."
A Kids Zone and Grape Stomp will be open until 7 p.m. Saturday. The Grape Stomp competition costs $5 and proceeds benefit the Texas Reds 4-H scholarship program. The champion stomp-off will begin at 6:30 p.m. and prizes include passes to Texas amusement parks.
"If you haven't done [the Grape Stomp], you should," said Darrell Lovelette, director of parks and recreation. "It's a lot of fun."
A big turnout is expected at the festival this year, Shillings said
"The first year was very successful; we brought in about 8,000 to 10,000 people," she said. "The second year was estimated about 18,000, and this year we expect 25,000."
The festival helps the city of Bryan economically, Lovelette said.
"This is a festival that really puts Bryan on the map," he said. "We market to all of Texas including the Houston area, to Dallas and Austin.".
Robert Earl Keen, a Texas singer, will be performing at 9 p.m. Saturday.
"I think it is catching on by word of mouth. Robert Earl Keen is drawing a lot of attention this year from outside Bryan," Saginor said. "I had a lady from Austin call me the other day asking about this event. She'd never heard of the festival but she wanted to take her husband to see [Keen] for Father's Day. It's a great way to introduce other people to our little town."
Father's Day has been a big help to draw attention to the festival this year, Saginor said.
"I think [Father's Day] enhances it," Saginor said. "It's a pretty good Father's Day gift to eat the food, drink some wine and enjoy the show."
The third annual Texas Reds and Grapes Festival, a free public event, will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at 10:30 p.m. Saturday. Admission to the event is free, but tickets must be purchased for the steak cook-off and wine tasting. Presale tickets are $15 and can be purchased at HEB-Bryan, JCody's , Clear Channel, Readfield Meats, Producers Co-Op, LaSalle Hotel, City Of Bryan Parks and Recreation, City of Bryan Municipal Office Building, B/CS Chamber of Commerce, B/CS Convention and Visitor Bureau, and Bryan Broadcasting. Tickets can also be bought at the festival for $20. Saturday morning the festival will begin with wine tasting at 10 a.m. For more information visit www.texasredsfestival.com
Published on Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tonight on Biased Transmission
Be sure to tune into KEOS 89.1FM on Wednesday, June 17th from 6-7 PM for this week's edition of Biased Transmission!
This week's guest will be Barbara Symons, and she will be talking about her spiritual journey in her life and in this community. Once a very active member of a very traditional ministry, Barbara began to question the traditional doctrines and the limited interpretations within that church.
Finally, after leaving the church and all that she knew behind, her spiritual life journey began. Her experiences pointed her to a concept of this world and our time in it that is more complex than traditional Christian doctrine could explain. We will talk about her son's life changing accident, and how what she experienced during that time informs her belief system now.
And finally, Barbara is very knowledgeable of the biblical text, and we will discuss how her interpretation of that text has changed with her evolving awareness. It should be an interesting show!
Finally, after leaving the church and all that she knew behind, her spiritual life journey began. Her experiences pointed her to a concept of this world and our time in it that is more complex than traditional Christian doctrine could explain. We will talk about her son's life changing accident, and how what she experienced during that time informs her belief system now.
And finally, Barbara is very knowledgeable of the biblical text, and we will discuss how her interpretation of that text has changed with her evolving awareness. It should be an interesting show!
Video Lunch: Lone Wolf
From the Media That Matters Film Festival:
On July 8, 2005, blogger and activist Josh Wolf filmed an anti-G8 protest in San Francisco’s mission district. The protest turned violent and a police officer was injured; however Josh did not capture the incident on tape. After selling his edited video footage to KRON, a local cable channel, Josh was subpoenaed by a grand jury requesting that he turn over his complete, raw and unedited video footage. Josh refused to be the government’s informant and was jailed for 226 days.
Lone Wolf is shot on 16mm and recorded in non-sync sound, with a mix of graphics and archival footage. The film examines Josh’s current job as a metro reporter for the Palo Alto Daily Post and as a jailed blogger who struggled to get the media establishment that he is a legit journalist.
The film debates many concerns for 21st century journalism: Who is a journalist in today’s world where everyday citizens maintain blogs and are equipped with cameras on their phones? What are society’s expectations of journalist outside their day jobs? Is it appropriate to be an activist attempting to influence the news in addition to covering it? Is objectivity ever possible?
This intimate portrait attempts to answer these questions through the lens of young journalist at the center of the debate.
Local News: Students at Texas A&M Protest Iran Election Results
A&M Students Protest Iran Election Results
Community Rallies to Support Fight for Freedom
By: Julie Rambin
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
Iranian students and community members Bryan and College Station gathered at Rudder Plaza to protest the results of Friday's election in Iran, and raise awareness of the issue.
"We believe, and a lot of Iranian people believe that this election has been stolen," said Mehran Mirjafari, protest organizer and electrical engineering graduate student. "We don't want violence - we just want our votes back."
The Iranian government announced Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won 63 percent of the votes and reform leader Mir Hossein Mousavi received 34 percent of the votes.
"With the massive rallies in the streets it is impossible," Mirjafari said. "There were two main Reformist candidates, and both of them received less votes than Ahmadinejad in their own provinces. It would be like Barack Obama being defeated in Chicago."
Students at the protest said the Iranian government had ignored the actual election results and imposed Ahmadinejad as president.
"The fraud is obvious," Mirjafari said. "Ahmadinejad is not our president. We have not elected him."
Censorship is a problem in Iran, and was an issue in the election, said a petroleum engineering graduate student.
"The TV is under control of the Supreme Leader. They check the newspapers before publishing," the student said. "You will see a blank column where the government said 'you cannot publish this.'"
Ahmadinejad's government has shut down cell phone networks, text messaging services, and websites, the student said.
"If we give information to people, he cannot win," the student said.
Tuesday's protest at Rudder was intended to show solidarity with the people of Iran, the student said.
Protests are illegal in Iran without a permit from the government.
"We are worried about the militia that support the government. They don't wear uniforms. They go into the crowd and they cause terrible, terrible crimes," Mirjafari said. "According to state radio, eight people were killed yesterday in a very, very peaceful rally … If you think you have a lot of supporters, why do you do this? Why do you send a militia into a peaceful protest and kill them?"
The Iranian government has closed universities in Tehran to quell opposition, the student said.
"We have freedom of speech, but we don't have freedom after our speech," the student said.
Iranians who do protest may face jail time, the student said.
"Students in the universities are under huge pressures," the student said. "Some of my close friends have been arrested in the past few years. They wrote some things against the president, and the government came and arrested them. Some of them are still in jail."
A free government could flourish in Iran under a different leader, said Sohrab Shahandeh.
"People don't understand Iran," the sophomore architecture major said. "They think all they need is democracy, but [Iranians] also have to preserve their culture and history and build a free government around that."
Government openness would help to bring about greater freedom for the Iranian people, the student said.
"It's a hard question," the student said. "It wouldn't be a pure democracy, of course, but it would be much better."
Concern and a sense of solidarity with family members still living in Iran motivated some protesters, said Shahandeh.
"I think what most people take for granted is that America is such a great and free country," Shahandeh said. "I feel like it's my duty to come here, protest, let my family know I'm supporting them in their fight for freedom."
Published on Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Community Rallies to Support Fight for Freedom
By: Julie Rambin
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
Iranian students and community members Bryan and College Station gathered at Rudder Plaza to protest the results of Friday's election in Iran, and raise awareness of the issue.
"We believe, and a lot of Iranian people believe that this election has been stolen," said Mehran Mirjafari, protest organizer and electrical engineering graduate student. "We don't want violence - we just want our votes back."
The Iranian government announced Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won 63 percent of the votes and reform leader Mir Hossein Mousavi received 34 percent of the votes.
"With the massive rallies in the streets it is impossible," Mirjafari said. "There were two main Reformist candidates, and both of them received less votes than Ahmadinejad in their own provinces. It would be like Barack Obama being defeated in Chicago."
Students at the protest said the Iranian government had ignored the actual election results and imposed Ahmadinejad as president.
"The fraud is obvious," Mirjafari said. "Ahmadinejad is not our president. We have not elected him."
Censorship is a problem in Iran, and was an issue in the election, said a petroleum engineering graduate student.
"The TV is under control of the Supreme Leader. They check the newspapers before publishing," the student said. "You will see a blank column where the government said 'you cannot publish this.'"
Ahmadinejad's government has shut down cell phone networks, text messaging services, and websites, the student said.
"If we give information to people, he cannot win," the student said.
Tuesday's protest at Rudder was intended to show solidarity with the people of Iran, the student said.
Protests are illegal in Iran without a permit from the government.
"We are worried about the militia that support the government. They don't wear uniforms. They go into the crowd and they cause terrible, terrible crimes," Mirjafari said. "According to state radio, eight people were killed yesterday in a very, very peaceful rally … If you think you have a lot of supporters, why do you do this? Why do you send a militia into a peaceful protest and kill them?"
The Iranian government has closed universities in Tehran to quell opposition, the student said.
"We have freedom of speech, but we don't have freedom after our speech," the student said.
Iranians who do protest may face jail time, the student said.
"Students in the universities are under huge pressures," the student said. "Some of my close friends have been arrested in the past few years. They wrote some things against the president, and the government came and arrested them. Some of them are still in jail."
A free government could flourish in Iran under a different leader, said Sohrab Shahandeh.
"People don't understand Iran," the sophomore architecture major said. "They think all they need is democracy, but [Iranians] also have to preserve their culture and history and build a free government around that."
Government openness would help to bring about greater freedom for the Iranian people, the student said.
"It's a hard question," the student said. "It wouldn't be a pure democracy, of course, but it would be much better."
Concern and a sense of solidarity with family members still living in Iran motivated some protesters, said Shahandeh.
"I think what most people take for granted is that America is such a great and free country," Shahandeh said. "I feel like it's my duty to come here, protest, let my family know I'm supporting them in their fight for freedom."
Published on Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Local News: Texas A&M Faculty and Student Protest Regents
Faculty, Students Say They're Losing Confidence in Regents
By Michelle Casady
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
Texas A&M faculty and students on Monday continued to criticize A&M System officials for the departure of former president Elsa Murano and for what they characterized as strongarm tactics that ignore the concept of shared governance of the university.
At a rally outside the Memorial Student Center before the Board of Regents meeting Monday morning, Bob Bednarz, speaker of the faculty senate, read a statement saying that recent actions by A&M System officials led him to believe that faculty input is neither valued nor desired.
"I fear that the events of the past month have had significant negative impacts on faculty morale, on the academic image of Texas A&M, and, therefore, on our ability to attract and retain the best and brightest people who are recruited to A&M by the faculty.
"Although every member of the Aggie family deserves to be heard, not many students, administrators, or regents spend 30 years at Texas A&M. Many of my colleagues and I have. We have devoted our professional lives to the improvement of this university."
He wasn't alone in his beliefs.
More than 100 professors gathered outside the MSC, where two protesters carried a sign reading: "McKinney and Regents: Gig 'em," but the traditional thumbs-up sign was instead pointed down. The other side of the sign had the Texas A&M logo and underneath it the words -- "Absolute mess."
Several dozen wore black ribbons tied around their arms to represent mourning the death of Vision 2020 -- the university's broad 20-year plan to make A&M one of the top universities in the country.
The gathering, which included about 15 students, was organized by the Council of Principal Investigators, a group that represents faculty researchers. Initially, it was called late last week to rally support behind the embattled Murano, but after her resignation Sunday afternoon the focus shifted to putting the spotlight on the idea of shared governance.
Murano -- who said in a statement Sunday that she hoped to stay on in Aggieland as a member of the faculty -- was not at the rally or the meeting.
A&M doctoral student Chuck Goldsmith, who made the sign with the thumbs down, said he's "sad and frustrated" by the unfolding situation.
"I don't think personal politics should guide our university," said Goldsmith, a 25-year-old from Plano who is studying genetics.
"The chancellor and board of regents have already showed their hand," he said, referring to the belief that officials had planned to oust Murano. "They're backpeddling a little, but not changing their minds. We're going down a dark path. No one is going to want to work here. No one is going to teach here."
Several professors said the regents were using the economic situation as a pretense to carry out their personal agendas.
Brandon Honore, a senior political science major from Carrollton, said he thought it was "ludicrous" to believe that the positions of president and chancellor should be combined for financial reasons -- an idea floated by the chancellor three weeks ago.
Another student at the rally felt similarly.
"I feel like some of the actions taken by the Board of Regents don't necessarily have the interests of the students at heart. It's a political move," said sophomore Alexa Rodin. "When the university just agreed to a $100 million MSC renovation," said the biomedical sciences major from Austin, pointing to the Memorial Student Center behind her, "you can't tell me this is about cutting costs."
More than 100 people packed into the Board of Regents meeting room at the MSC; another 50 were in an overflow room down the hall. Some of those who attended were less than pleased by what they heard.
"I was a little surprised that there was so little discussion," said Marty Loudder, former speaker of the faculty senate.
Other faculty expressed similar sentiments and said they wished there had been an opportunity for them to ask questions or comment on the presentations.
Two presentations were made during the open portion of the Board of Regents meeting -- one on finances, the other on combining several offices at the system and the flagship campus.
Following the financial analysis presentation, a regent asked the presenter if the numbers indicated there were more professors on staff with lighter workloads than in previous years.
"No one I know is getting lighter loads," said R. Douglas Slack, former speaker of the faculty senate, following the meeting. "I assume the implication there was that faculty don't carry their load and responsibilities to the taxpayers, but gosh, we do."
Following the meeting, a group of faculty gathered in the hall and shared their grievances.
"They've pretty much undone 50 years of progress that started with Earl Rudder in two weeks. Right now it's more like vision 1920," said Thomas McKnight, a professor and associate head of biology. "I think it's very clear that the board holds the faculty in contempt. This is a very sad day for A&M and for the Aggie family."
In moving forward, McKnight said, filling the top slot at the state's second-largest public university likely will be more difficult than expected.
"I really think that their actions over the past month have poisoned the well," he said. "No one who would be good at the job would want it now."
Loudder commented on Board Chairman Morris Foster's goal of having a new president hired within six months.
"I don't think it's possible. That's pretty optimistic," she said. "What university president in another Tier I university would want to apply for a job at Texas A&M when they know, and have seen in all the national publications, that this Board of Regents wants to micromanage the flagship university?"
She said in order to keep A&M from heading down a regressive path, immediate action is needed.
"It's going to have to start with open communication between the regents and the representative of the faculty senate," she said. "We simply want to have a voice in the decision-making process. That's what happens at every world-class university, and if it stops happening here at Texas A&M, we're doomed to be second-rate."
Published on Tuesday, June 16, 2009
By Michelle Casady
From the Bryan-College Station Eagle
Texas A&M faculty and students on Monday continued to criticize A&M System officials for the departure of former president Elsa Murano and for what they characterized as strongarm tactics that ignore the concept of shared governance of the university.
At a rally outside the Memorial Student Center before the Board of Regents meeting Monday morning, Bob Bednarz, speaker of the faculty senate, read a statement saying that recent actions by A&M System officials led him to believe that faculty input is neither valued nor desired.
"I fear that the events of the past month have had significant negative impacts on faculty morale, on the academic image of Texas A&M, and, therefore, on our ability to attract and retain the best and brightest people who are recruited to A&M by the faculty.
"Although every member of the Aggie family deserves to be heard, not many students, administrators, or regents spend 30 years at Texas A&M. Many of my colleagues and I have. We have devoted our professional lives to the improvement of this university."
He wasn't alone in his beliefs.
More than 100 professors gathered outside the MSC, where two protesters carried a sign reading: "McKinney and Regents: Gig 'em," but the traditional thumbs-up sign was instead pointed down. The other side of the sign had the Texas A&M logo and underneath it the words -- "Absolute mess."
Several dozen wore black ribbons tied around their arms to represent mourning the death of Vision 2020 -- the university's broad 20-year plan to make A&M one of the top universities in the country.
The gathering, which included about 15 students, was organized by the Council of Principal Investigators, a group that represents faculty researchers. Initially, it was called late last week to rally support behind the embattled Murano, but after her resignation Sunday afternoon the focus shifted to putting the spotlight on the idea of shared governance.
Murano -- who said in a statement Sunday that she hoped to stay on in Aggieland as a member of the faculty -- was not at the rally or the meeting.
A&M doctoral student Chuck Goldsmith, who made the sign with the thumbs down, said he's "sad and frustrated" by the unfolding situation.
"I don't think personal politics should guide our university," said Goldsmith, a 25-year-old from Plano who is studying genetics.
"The chancellor and board of regents have already showed their hand," he said, referring to the belief that officials had planned to oust Murano. "They're backpeddling a little, but not changing their minds. We're going down a dark path. No one is going to want to work here. No one is going to teach here."
Several professors said the regents were using the economic situation as a pretense to carry out their personal agendas.
Brandon Honore, a senior political science major from Carrollton, said he thought it was "ludicrous" to believe that the positions of president and chancellor should be combined for financial reasons -- an idea floated by the chancellor three weeks ago.
Another student at the rally felt similarly.
"I feel like some of the actions taken by the Board of Regents don't necessarily have the interests of the students at heart. It's a political move," said sophomore Alexa Rodin. "When the university just agreed to a $100 million MSC renovation," said the biomedical sciences major from Austin, pointing to the Memorial Student Center behind her, "you can't tell me this is about cutting costs."
More than 100 people packed into the Board of Regents meeting room at the MSC; another 50 were in an overflow room down the hall. Some of those who attended were less than pleased by what they heard.
"I was a little surprised that there was so little discussion," said Marty Loudder, former speaker of the faculty senate.
Other faculty expressed similar sentiments and said they wished there had been an opportunity for them to ask questions or comment on the presentations.
Two presentations were made during the open portion of the Board of Regents meeting -- one on finances, the other on combining several offices at the system and the flagship campus.
Following the financial analysis presentation, a regent asked the presenter if the numbers indicated there were more professors on staff with lighter workloads than in previous years.
"No one I know is getting lighter loads," said R. Douglas Slack, former speaker of the faculty senate, following the meeting. "I assume the implication there was that faculty don't carry their load and responsibilities to the taxpayers, but gosh, we do."
Following the meeting, a group of faculty gathered in the hall and shared their grievances.
"They've pretty much undone 50 years of progress that started with Earl Rudder in two weeks. Right now it's more like vision 1920," said Thomas McKnight, a professor and associate head of biology. "I think it's very clear that the board holds the faculty in contempt. This is a very sad day for A&M and for the Aggie family."
In moving forward, McKnight said, filling the top slot at the state's second-largest public university likely will be more difficult than expected.
"I really think that their actions over the past month have poisoned the well," he said. "No one who would be good at the job would want it now."
Loudder commented on Board Chairman Morris Foster's goal of having a new president hired within six months.
"I don't think it's possible. That's pretty optimistic," she said. "What university president in another Tier I university would want to apply for a job at Texas A&M when they know, and have seen in all the national publications, that this Board of Regents wants to micromanage the flagship university?"
She said in order to keep A&M from heading down a regressive path, immediate action is needed.
"It's going to have to start with open communication between the regents and the representative of the faculty senate," she said. "We simply want to have a voice in the decision-making process. That's what happens at every world-class university, and if it stops happening here at Texas A&M, we're doomed to be second-rate."
Published on Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Video Lunch: Democracy Now Headlines - June 15, 2009
Headlines * Scores Killed in Iraq Bombing * Deadly Blast Hits Pakistan Hotel * Clinic of Slain Abortion Provider to Close * Court Rulings Advance Pending Chrysler Sale * Admin Drops Salary Caps for Bailed-out Firms * 10 Firms Cleared to Repay Bailout Loans * Transferred Gitmo Prisoner Pleads Not Guilty in US Court * Uyghur Prisoners to Be Resettled in Palau * Nicaragua Grants Asylum to Peruvian Indigenous Leader * UN: Over 117,000 Displaced in Somalia * Report: Arab States Give Obama Deadline on Peace Offer * US Suspends Deportations of Widows * West Virginia State Court OKs Coal Silo Near School * More Headlines
Local News: Texas A&M President Murano Resigns
Texas A&M President Murano Resigns
President Says A&M's Best Interest in Mind
By: Kalee Bumguardner
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
Texas A&M President Elsa A. Murano, the first female and first Hispanic president of the University, announced her resignation Sunday afternoon, effective Monday and subject to approval by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.
Morris Foster, chairman of the board, called a special meeting Friday, for 9 a.m. Monday. Murano's resignation, and the plans for her transition back into the faculty will be addressed at the meeting.
"Murano has served the University with distinction over the course of her career," Foster said. "I want to thank her for her service and commitment to the betterment of the University, its faculty, and its students."
In an e-mail sent by Murano's representative and attorney, Darryl Carter of Glickman, Carter & Bachynsky, LLP in Houston, Murano said that her deep and abiding passion for Texas A&M reinforces her duty to do what is best for the University, and that is why she will be resigning as president.
Murano's resignation is the latest in a string of events that began when Texas A&M University System Chancellor Mike McKinney gave Murano a poor performance evaluation Feb. 9 for her first year on the job, despite having recommended her for the position in 2007.
Murano vehemently rejected the results of the evaluation and presented her evidence as to why it was undeserved in a 10-page letter to McKinney and the Board of Regents March 10.
In late May, McKinney suggested merging the positions of Texas A&M president and system chancellor as one of many options to save money. This suggestion met with much opposition from faculty and students. Murano compiled these arguments and sent them to the regents.
Her subsequent resignation prompted a flurry of comments from A&M students and faculty, some in support of her, and others who were glad to see her go.
"I admire and commend Dr. Murano for her year and a half of service," said Student Body President Eric Beckham, senior petroleum engineering major. "I'm sad to see her go in this fashion, but will look to the student body to rally around whoever's going to be the next president."
Former student body president, senior biomedical sciences major Mark Gold, who is the only SBP to serve his full tenure with Murano as president, said he was surprised to hear of her resignation.
"I did not expect a resignation from President Murano because of the short period of time she served and I believe she had just gotten her team together to execute her plans and achieve her vision for Texas A&M University," Gold said.
The faculty senate speaker, Robert Bednarz, said Murano's resignation was unfortunate for a number of reasons.
"It will almost certainly introduce instability at the University just as it was emerging from a two-year period during which almost every senior administrator at Texas A&M was replaced," Bednarz said. "In addition, the short tenure of the president and the manner in which her presidency began and ended will make it more difficult to attract the most highly qualified individuals to apply for the position."
Different theories as to why Murano resigned have emerged.
Kolin Loveless, speaker for the student senate and senior mechanical engineering major, said while he didn't know for certain why she resigned, he suspects that it is because of all the articles regarding Murano and the chancellor that have been in the news.
"She's been under a lot of fire lately, and maybe she thought she'd be on the chopping block anyway," Loveless said.
Some said that by resigning before the regents' meeting, when they planned to discuss the employment, evaluation or dismissal of A&M system administration officers, including the president, Murano saved face.
"I think it was a wise decision on her part to resign due to her recent barrage of criticism," said senior history major Bryant McCombs. "It would have been a bad choice for her to continue because it would have tarnished her legacy, however short it was."
The executive committee for the Council of Principal Investigators have asked students and faculty to meet near the Rudder Tower fountains at 8:30 a.m. Monday in a show of support for shared governance and the future of Texas A&M.
"Although it may appear that the decisions have already been made, it may still be possible to influence the outcome," said Deborah Bell-Pedersen, a professor in the biology department, on behalf of the CPI executive committee. "Hence, it is essential for the students, faculty, and staff to make their opinions known."
In a March 2009 meeting, the regents eliminated the requirement for a search committee in the hiring of a University president.
Logan West and Lorelei Willett contributed to this report.
Published on Monday, June 15, 2009
President Says A&M's Best Interest in Mind
By: Kalee Bumguardner
From the Texas A&M University Battalion
Texas A&M President Elsa A. Murano, the first female and first Hispanic president of the University, announced her resignation Sunday afternoon, effective Monday and subject to approval by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.
Morris Foster, chairman of the board, called a special meeting Friday, for 9 a.m. Monday. Murano's resignation, and the plans for her transition back into the faculty will be addressed at the meeting.
"Murano has served the University with distinction over the course of her career," Foster said. "I want to thank her for her service and commitment to the betterment of the University, its faculty, and its students."
In an e-mail sent by Murano's representative and attorney, Darryl Carter of Glickman, Carter & Bachynsky, LLP in Houston, Murano said that her deep and abiding passion for Texas A&M reinforces her duty to do what is best for the University, and that is why she will be resigning as president.
Murano's resignation is the latest in a string of events that began when Texas A&M University System Chancellor Mike McKinney gave Murano a poor performance evaluation Feb. 9 for her first year on the job, despite having recommended her for the position in 2007.
Murano vehemently rejected the results of the evaluation and presented her evidence as to why it was undeserved in a 10-page letter to McKinney and the Board of Regents March 10.
In late May, McKinney suggested merging the positions of Texas A&M president and system chancellor as one of many options to save money. This suggestion met with much opposition from faculty and students. Murano compiled these arguments and sent them to the regents.
Her subsequent resignation prompted a flurry of comments from A&M students and faculty, some in support of her, and others who were glad to see her go.
"I admire and commend Dr. Murano for her year and a half of service," said Student Body President Eric Beckham, senior petroleum engineering major. "I'm sad to see her go in this fashion, but will look to the student body to rally around whoever's going to be the next president."
Former student body president, senior biomedical sciences major Mark Gold, who is the only SBP to serve his full tenure with Murano as president, said he was surprised to hear of her resignation.
"I did not expect a resignation from President Murano because of the short period of time she served and I believe she had just gotten her team together to execute her plans and achieve her vision for Texas A&M University," Gold said.
The faculty senate speaker, Robert Bednarz, said Murano's resignation was unfortunate for a number of reasons.
"It will almost certainly introduce instability at the University just as it was emerging from a two-year period during which almost every senior administrator at Texas A&M was replaced," Bednarz said. "In addition, the short tenure of the president and the manner in which her presidency began and ended will make it more difficult to attract the most highly qualified individuals to apply for the position."
Different theories as to why Murano resigned have emerged.
Kolin Loveless, speaker for the student senate and senior mechanical engineering major, said while he didn't know for certain why she resigned, he suspects that it is because of all the articles regarding Murano and the chancellor that have been in the news.
"She's been under a lot of fire lately, and maybe she thought she'd be on the chopping block anyway," Loveless said.
Some said that by resigning before the regents' meeting, when they planned to discuss the employment, evaluation or dismissal of A&M system administration officers, including the president, Murano saved face.
"I think it was a wise decision on her part to resign due to her recent barrage of criticism," said senior history major Bryant McCombs. "It would have been a bad choice for her to continue because it would have tarnished her legacy, however short it was."
The executive committee for the Council of Principal Investigators have asked students and faculty to meet near the Rudder Tower fountains at 8:30 a.m. Monday in a show of support for shared governance and the future of Texas A&M.
"Although it may appear that the decisions have already been made, it may still be possible to influence the outcome," said Deborah Bell-Pedersen, a professor in the biology department, on behalf of the CPI executive committee. "Hence, it is essential for the students, faculty, and staff to make their opinions known."
In a March 2009 meeting, the regents eliminated the requirement for a search committee in the hiring of a University president.
Logan West and Lorelei Willett contributed to this report.
Published on Monday, June 15, 2009
Texas Progressive Alliance Roundup - June 15, 2009
It's Monday, and that means it's time once again to present the best of the Texas Progressive Alliance blog posts for the week.
TXsharon can't choose one post this week! It's a toss up between the aerial video view of Barnett Shale Industrial Wasteland Texas or the Barnett Shale drilling induced earthquakes or Erin Brockovich does Midland or the governmental warnings about defective pipeline materials on Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Xanthippas at Three Wise Men blogs about how utterly ridiculous it is for us to pay a tiny South Pacific nation to take Guantanamo Bay detainees because we are a nation of bed-wetting, pearl-clutching morons.
WCNews at Eye On Williamson analyzes what might possibly happen in the upcoming special session, Perry calls a special - what gets done is up to him.
Off the Kuff looks at a Lone Star Project report on State Rep. Dwayne Bohac and his questionable relationship with an employee of the Harris County Tax Assessor's office.
BossKitty at TruthHugger sees a growing pandemic of hate that erupts in violence. See the diagnosis: Scapegoat Lessons: Holocaust Museum ‘Act Of Cowardice’
CouldBeTrue of South Texas Chisme is glad that Judge Kent is going to jail. Too bad his sentence wasn't longer. CBT can hardly wait to see his impeachment hearing in the senate.
This week, McBlogger finds out that the 290E tollway will be built using stimulus dollars. Which means Austinites will pay three different taxes to support this road.
John at Bay Area Houston> wonders about the lack of diversity at the Nancy Pelosi event in Houston.
Citizen Sarah at Texas Vox wonders if the specter of Texas losing its leadership role creating clean energy jobs is scary enough to address in a special session.
George at The Texas Blue thinks that forced arbitration with credit card and cell phone companies is fundamentally unjust, but forced arbitration in a rape case is just disgusting.
Teddy at Left of College Station, reports on whether or not America is actually becoming more "pro-life" and looks deeper into the polls to find that opinions on reproductive rights are much more complicated, and Left of College Station also covers this week in the headlines.
Neil at Texas Liberal writes about Juneteenth. Juneteeth is June 19th and it has a Galveston origin.
Midland's chromium 6 contamination got more linkage from PDiddie at Brains and Eggs.
Over at TexasKaos, liberaltexan asks, what exactly does the latest abortion survey means? He answers not much new, since it does a poor job of asking the question and sorting out the nuances of public opinion. See the rest here: Are More Americans Pro-Life?
Justin at AAA-Fund Blog took some time to remember Tim Russert.
TXsharon can't choose one post this week! It's a toss up between the aerial video view of Barnett Shale Industrial Wasteland Texas or the Barnett Shale drilling induced earthquakes or Erin Brockovich does Midland or the governmental warnings about defective pipeline materials on Bluedaze: DRILLING REFORM FOR TEXAS.
Xanthippas at Three Wise Men blogs about how utterly ridiculous it is for us to pay a tiny South Pacific nation to take Guantanamo Bay detainees because we are a nation of bed-wetting, pearl-clutching morons.
WCNews at Eye On Williamson analyzes what might possibly happen in the upcoming special session, Perry calls a special - what gets done is up to him.
Off the Kuff looks at a Lone Star Project report on State Rep. Dwayne Bohac and his questionable relationship with an employee of the Harris County Tax Assessor's office.
BossKitty at TruthHugger sees a growing pandemic of hate that erupts in violence. See the diagnosis: Scapegoat Lessons: Holocaust Museum ‘Act Of Cowardice’
CouldBeTrue of South Texas Chisme is glad that Judge Kent is going to jail. Too bad his sentence wasn't longer. CBT can hardly wait to see his impeachment hearing in the senate.
This week, McBlogger finds out that the 290E tollway will be built using stimulus dollars. Which means Austinites will pay three different taxes to support this road.
John at Bay Area Houston> wonders about the lack of diversity at the Nancy Pelosi event in Houston.
Citizen Sarah at Texas Vox wonders if the specter of Texas losing its leadership role creating clean energy jobs is scary enough to address in a special session.
George at The Texas Blue thinks that forced arbitration with credit card and cell phone companies is fundamentally unjust, but forced arbitration in a rape case is just disgusting.
Teddy at Left of College Station, reports on whether or not America is actually becoming more "pro-life" and looks deeper into the polls to find that opinions on reproductive rights are much more complicated, and Left of College Station also covers this week in the headlines.
Neil at Texas Liberal writes about Juneteenth. Juneteeth is June 19th and it has a Galveston origin.
Midland's chromium 6 contamination got more linkage from PDiddie at Brains and Eggs.
Over at TexasKaos, liberaltexan asks, what exactly does the latest abortion survey means? He answers not much new, since it does a poor job of asking the question and sorting out the nuances of public opinion. See the rest here: Are More Americans Pro-Life?
Justin at AAA-Fund Blog took some time to remember Tim Russert.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
What Happens in Kansas
You think about it while you drive to the clinic. Even though it is unlikely that something would happen, it is still on your mind. You think about what to look for, and you think about what you will do if you see something. It is on your mind even more than usually, because of what happened in Kansas.
I parked down the street from the clinic, in part because I do not want to take up parking space for the clients and in part because of protesters who have in the past written down license plate numbers. When I arrived at the clinic it was early in the morning, and there was already a few protesters in front of the fence, and most of the medical staff had already arrived and were inside the building. I have never gotten used to the fact that when I walk inside a place that provided women with the services that they need, it is surrounded by a fence, security cameras, and security systems.
The first thing I did was walk inside and sign into the volunteer log, and put on one of the orange volunteer vest. The next thing I did was head to the kitchen and get a cup of coffee; however, the weather usually makes it more appropriate to drink Gatorade. Then for the rest of the morning I sat in front of the clinic, and waited for patients to arrive. This week one of my fellow volunteers brought breakfast, which along with the coffee, was a good way to start off the morning.
Most of the mornings we talk about whatever happens to be in the news or whatever things are happening locally around town. Texas A&M President Elsa Murano was a topic of conversation, and whether or not she would resign or be fired. We talked about the farmers market, and the different locally grown and produced things that you can by there. Normally we do not talk much about reproductive rights, but yesterday morning was different. We voiced our concern about the recent events, and talked about how it might affect reproductive health care.
We have learned how to pause conversations and start them again, as clients come inside the fence usually one or two of us will meet them at their car and another person will stand by the door to let them into the building. When you are escorting the patients your main purpose is simply to be a welcoming face. Especially on the days when abortion services are provided most the women who come into the clinic are there for a very personal reason, and the best thing that we can provide is a supportive atmosphere. Usually escorts will greet the clients, and welcome them to Planned Parenthood. Then we will walk with them through the parking lot, and then open the door to the clinic for them.
The protesters usually actively try to verbally engage with the clients, and they will speak through the fence. In general what the protesters say is the same, warnings about the dangers of abortion and reasons why Planned Parenthood should be avoided. The vast majority of what the protesters say is either a distortion of the truth, or it is completely false. Sometimes the clients will ask what the protesters are saying or what they are protesting, and I usually just explain that they are protesting abortion and avoid elaborating on the subject.
There have been times when I have been targeted by the protesters, but I have always chosen never to engage with the protesters. Some of my fellow escorts engage in conversation or debate with the protesters, but it seems like there is not much point to the exchange. I am not there for them; I am there for the women that need access to reproductive health care.
I am there for the woman who is there with her friend, to show her where the smoking area is and to be someone that she can vent to about things. I am there for the father who is there with his daughter, to provide a moment of levity while talking about sports. I am there for the woman that is there by herself, who asks me to walk her to her car. I am there because I do not know what they are going through, but I know that a smile can mean much more than anything they say on the other side of the fence.
This week unfolded just like any other. There were no incidents between the clients or the escorts and the protesters. However, this week was different the other weeks in that the fear was there, just under the surface. The murder of Doctor George Tiller has greatly affected the reproductive rights community, and it was not an unexpected event. With the election of President Obama and the election of Democratic majorities in both the House of Representatives and in the Senate, it has been thought that the anti-choice may become more radical.
The murder of Doctor Tiller affects both patients and doctors alike. It will continue to be difficult for doctors to make the decision to provide later term abortions, because of the impact that it could have on them personally. This murder will also affect women’s decision making process in seeking reproductive health, and if more violent actions occur fewer women may have the confidence in making reproductive health decisions.
Doctor Tiller’s murder has had a significant impact on women’s reproductive health, and the possible violent actions in the future will continue to have a negative affect on women’s reproductive health. What happens in Kansas, doesn’t stay in Kansas.
I parked down the street from the clinic, in part because I do not want to take up parking space for the clients and in part because of protesters who have in the past written down license plate numbers. When I arrived at the clinic it was early in the morning, and there was already a few protesters in front of the fence, and most of the medical staff had already arrived and were inside the building. I have never gotten used to the fact that when I walk inside a place that provided women with the services that they need, it is surrounded by a fence, security cameras, and security systems.
The first thing I did was walk inside and sign into the volunteer log, and put on one of the orange volunteer vest. The next thing I did was head to the kitchen and get a cup of coffee; however, the weather usually makes it more appropriate to drink Gatorade. Then for the rest of the morning I sat in front of the clinic, and waited for patients to arrive. This week one of my fellow volunteers brought breakfast, which along with the coffee, was a good way to start off the morning.
Most of the mornings we talk about whatever happens to be in the news or whatever things are happening locally around town. Texas A&M President Elsa Murano was a topic of conversation, and whether or not she would resign or be fired. We talked about the farmers market, and the different locally grown and produced things that you can by there. Normally we do not talk much about reproductive rights, but yesterday morning was different. We voiced our concern about the recent events, and talked about how it might affect reproductive health care.
We have learned how to pause conversations and start them again, as clients come inside the fence usually one or two of us will meet them at their car and another person will stand by the door to let them into the building. When you are escorting the patients your main purpose is simply to be a welcoming face. Especially on the days when abortion services are provided most the women who come into the clinic are there for a very personal reason, and the best thing that we can provide is a supportive atmosphere. Usually escorts will greet the clients, and welcome them to Planned Parenthood. Then we will walk with them through the parking lot, and then open the door to the clinic for them.
The protesters usually actively try to verbally engage with the clients, and they will speak through the fence. In general what the protesters say is the same, warnings about the dangers of abortion and reasons why Planned Parenthood should be avoided. The vast majority of what the protesters say is either a distortion of the truth, or it is completely false. Sometimes the clients will ask what the protesters are saying or what they are protesting, and I usually just explain that they are protesting abortion and avoid elaborating on the subject.
There have been times when I have been targeted by the protesters, but I have always chosen never to engage with the protesters. Some of my fellow escorts engage in conversation or debate with the protesters, but it seems like there is not much point to the exchange. I am not there for them; I am there for the women that need access to reproductive health care.
I am there for the woman who is there with her friend, to show her where the smoking area is and to be someone that she can vent to about things. I am there for the father who is there with his daughter, to provide a moment of levity while talking about sports. I am there for the woman that is there by herself, who asks me to walk her to her car. I am there because I do not know what they are going through, but I know that a smile can mean much more than anything they say on the other side of the fence.
This week unfolded just like any other. There were no incidents between the clients or the escorts and the protesters. However, this week was different the other weeks in that the fear was there, just under the surface. The murder of Doctor George Tiller has greatly affected the reproductive rights community, and it was not an unexpected event. With the election of President Obama and the election of Democratic majorities in both the House of Representatives and in the Senate, it has been thought that the anti-choice may become more radical.
The murder of Doctor Tiller affects both patients and doctors alike. It will continue to be difficult for doctors to make the decision to provide later term abortions, because of the impact that it could have on them personally. This murder will also affect women’s decision making process in seeking reproductive health, and if more violent actions occur fewer women may have the confidence in making reproductive health decisions.
Doctor Tiller’s murder has had a significant impact on women’s reproductive health, and the possible violent actions in the future will continue to have a negative affect on women’s reproductive health. What happens in Kansas, doesn’t stay in Kansas.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Week in Headlines
Local
Murano Put on Special Agenda for Monday
Texas A&M University System regents is set to meet Monday, and the fate of Texas A&M University president Elsa Murano will be decided. The controversy that has developed of the course of the last several weeks has included speculation of her resigning or firing.
Texas Politics
The Best and Worst Legislators 2009
Texas Monthly’s ranking of the best and the worst of the Texas Legislature, which it characterized this year like an episode of Seinfeld: a show about nothing. Bryan-College Station Representative Fred Brown did not make the best list, nor did he make the worst list. Representative Brown made the list of furniture: lawmakers indistinguishable from their desks, chairs, and inkwells.
Education
A Look at the Texas Social Studies ‘Experts’
Texas Freedom Network reports on the Texas State Board of Education appointments to the “expert” review panel for social studies curriculum revisions. The nominees include equal numbers of mainstream academics, including Texas A&M professor Jim Kracht, and fundamentalist Christian ideologues such as Reverend Peter Marshall who believe the U.S. Constitution does not protect separation of church and state.
Health Care
Why Not Single-Payer?
50 million Americans are uninsured and 25 million more are underinsured, but single-payer health care is still considered to be political unrealistic. A look at some of the reasons why single-payer is political problematic, and what minds are going to have to be changed.
Women’s Issues
Racial Disparities in Illness Highlighted
A report by the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that black women in the District of Columbia suffer from obesity, diabetes, heart disease more than white women. Also, the study also found wide gaps exist between black and white women in the incidence of other illnesses such as cancer and HIV and AIDS.
Reproductive Rights
The Hardest Choice
A woman’s story about having a second trimester abortion, and why her choice was the only act of love that she could give her unborn child. She also asks the question of where will women turn to who need late term abortions during heart wrenching situations now that Dr. Tiller is gone and fewer women have access to the reproductive health care they need.
GLBT Issues
Vermont Program Helps Students Explore Gender
High school students in Vermont take part in “Gendertopia,” an after school program designed to teach students about gender and to assist them in identify the subtle signals used to express gender. The program has gained wide acceptance in the community, and there has been significant participation by students interesting in explore gender.
Race and Racism
Bank Accused of Pushing Mortgage Deals on Blacks
Investigative report on how Wells Fargo systematically targeted the black community for subprime mortgages, and pushed customers who could have qualified for prime loans into subprime mortgages. A loan officer in the report reveals how Wells Fargo employees referred to blacks as mud people” and to subprime lending as “ghetto loans.”
From the Blogs
FiveThirtyEight:
Leader Limbaugh: Chalk One Up to Obama, DNC
FiveThirtyEight reports that the effort by the Democratic National Committee and the Obama Administration to portray Rush Limbaugh as the leader of the Republican Party has worked. Recent polls show that Limbaugh is viewed as speaking for the GOP among both Democrats and Republicans. However, perhaps worse is that nearly half self identified Republicans could not think of “a single political or other figure when asked to name the main person who speaks for their party.”
Mean Rachel:
Political Snowbirds: The Case for Sen. Leticia Van de Putte for Texas Governor
Rachel lays out the case for why Democrats should support State Senator Leticia Van de Putte for Governor, and why she is a better choice than the political snowbirds or the artist formerly known as an independent.
Latina Lista:
FCC Needs to do More to Monitor "Outrage" Media That Fuels Hate
Marisa writes about the increase in hate crimes and extremist, such as Holocaust Museum murder suspect James W. von Brunn, and how outrage is fueled and empowered by internet sites and media personalities.
Murano Put on Special Agenda for Monday
Texas A&M University System regents is set to meet Monday, and the fate of Texas A&M University president Elsa Murano will be decided. The controversy that has developed of the course of the last several weeks has included speculation of her resigning or firing.
Texas Politics
The Best and Worst Legislators 2009
Texas Monthly’s ranking of the best and the worst of the Texas Legislature, which it characterized this year like an episode of Seinfeld: a show about nothing. Bryan-College Station Representative Fred Brown did not make the best list, nor did he make the worst list. Representative Brown made the list of furniture: lawmakers indistinguishable from their desks, chairs, and inkwells.
Education
A Look at the Texas Social Studies ‘Experts’
Texas Freedom Network reports on the Texas State Board of Education appointments to the “expert” review panel for social studies curriculum revisions. The nominees include equal numbers of mainstream academics, including Texas A&M professor Jim Kracht, and fundamentalist Christian ideologues such as Reverend Peter Marshall who believe the U.S. Constitution does not protect separation of church and state.
Health Care
Why Not Single-Payer?
50 million Americans are uninsured and 25 million more are underinsured, but single-payer health care is still considered to be political unrealistic. A look at some of the reasons why single-payer is political problematic, and what minds are going to have to be changed.
Women’s Issues
Racial Disparities in Illness Highlighted
A report by the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that black women in the District of Columbia suffer from obesity, diabetes, heart disease more than white women. Also, the study also found wide gaps exist between black and white women in the incidence of other illnesses such as cancer and HIV and AIDS.
Reproductive Rights
The Hardest Choice
A woman’s story about having a second trimester abortion, and why her choice was the only act of love that she could give her unborn child. She also asks the question of where will women turn to who need late term abortions during heart wrenching situations now that Dr. Tiller is gone and fewer women have access to the reproductive health care they need.
GLBT Issues
Vermont Program Helps Students Explore Gender
High school students in Vermont take part in “Gendertopia,” an after school program designed to teach students about gender and to assist them in identify the subtle signals used to express gender. The program has gained wide acceptance in the community, and there has been significant participation by students interesting in explore gender.
Race and Racism
Bank Accused of Pushing Mortgage Deals on Blacks
Investigative report on how Wells Fargo systematically targeted the black community for subprime mortgages, and pushed customers who could have qualified for prime loans into subprime mortgages. A loan officer in the report reveals how Wells Fargo employees referred to blacks as mud people” and to subprime lending as “ghetto loans.”
From the Blogs
FiveThirtyEight:
Leader Limbaugh: Chalk One Up to Obama, DNC
FiveThirtyEight reports that the effort by the Democratic National Committee and the Obama Administration to portray Rush Limbaugh as the leader of the Republican Party has worked. Recent polls show that Limbaugh is viewed as speaking for the GOP among both Democrats and Republicans. However, perhaps worse is that nearly half self identified Republicans could not think of “a single political or other figure when asked to name the main person who speaks for their party.”
Mean Rachel:
Political Snowbirds: The Case for Sen. Leticia Van de Putte for Texas Governor
Rachel lays out the case for why Democrats should support State Senator Leticia Van de Putte for Governor, and why she is a better choice than the political snowbirds or the artist formerly known as an independent.
Latina Lista:
FCC Needs to do More to Monitor "Outrage" Media That Fuels Hate
Marisa writes about the increase in hate crimes and extremist, such as Holocaust Museum murder suspect James W. von Brunn, and how outrage is fueled and empowered by internet sites and media personalities.
Video Lunch: My Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood supporters, patients, and staff talk about why reproductive health care services are important in their lives and communities.
Local News: Soldier From Waco Killed in Iraq Inspires GI Bill Expansion
Proposed Expansion of GI Bill Inspired by Waco-Area Soldier Killed in Iraq
By Regina Dennis (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
A new provision to expand GI Bill education benefits for the children of fallen service members will be named in honor of a Lorena man who was killed while on duty in Iraq.
The Marine Gunnery Sgt. John David Fry Scholarship would cover the full cost of a college education for all children of military members serving after Sept. 11, 2001, who are killed in combat or active duty.
The scholarship’s namesake, John Fry, a Lorena native stationed in Iraq, was killed in March 2006, when a hidden roadside bomb he was attempting to defuse exploded. The 28-year-old had been set to return just one week after that fatal incident for a scheduled six-month leave.
U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, added the provision to the 2009 Supplemental Appropriations bill that funds military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. A House and Senate conference committee approved the bill Thursday, and it will be sent to the floor for a vote next week.
Edwards said he met Fry’s widow, Malia Fry, and three children at a 2007 Veterans Day ceremony in Waco in which four McLennan County veterans who were killed in Iraq were honored. He said he was especially moved by Fry’s commitment, volunteering to defuse three roadside bombs as his group was being relieved from duty, a move that led to his death when a fourth bomb under one he had defused exploded.
“I can hardly tell his story without becoming emotional about it,” Edwards said Thursday. “I felt these scholarships ought to have a face on them and a story behind them, so I felt it was appropriate to name them (after Fry).”
The current GI Bill allows a soldier who died in active duty since the Sept. 11 attacks to transfer educational benefits to only one dependent. The soldier must have served at least six years with an additional four-year commitment, and the soldier’s children must serve at least three years in the military to receive full benefits.
The scholarship provision will expand GI Bill benefits to all the children of post-Sept. 11 fallen solders and waives the service commitment. It will cover the tuition and fees up to the maximum in-state tuition at a public university and will include a monthly housing allowance and up to $1,000 for books and supplies each year.
“I’m hoping this sends a message of respect to every serviceman and woman that when you go into harm’s way for your country, our prayer is that you don’t have to give your life, but if that happens, we’re not going to forget your children,” Edwards said. “This legislation is as meaningful to me as any legislation I’ve ever passed because who could be more deserving of our support than children whose moms or dads have died in military service to our nation.”
Fry’s widow, Malia Fry, said Thursday that she was grateful for the honor, and said her three children, Kathryn, 12, Gideon, 10, and C.L., 5, would be even more proud of their father.
“I am truly honored and speechless that (Edwards) was so moved by my family,” Fry said after Edwards called her Thursday morning to tell her that the scholarship provision would be named after her husband. “The great thing is that this will not just benefit my children, but every fallen (soldier’s) children. I know that John would be so proud to have something like that named after him. It’s amazing.”
In 2008, Edwards jumped aboard Fry’s efforts to have the Lorena post office renamed in her husband’s honor, sponsoring a resolution passed by Congress approving the name change.
The Marine Gunnery Sgt. John D. Fry Post Office Building at 1190 Lorena Road was officially dedicated on March 27. Fry said she hopes postal patrons will be inspired by her husband’s service.
Since her husband’s death, Fry has worked to preserve his memory for the couple’s three children. There are photo albums, videos of him reading to his children and playing with the family, and voice mail messages he left for each of the three children. A photo of John is posted over her youngest son C.L.’s bed, and he kisses his father good night at bedtime.
“It’s been difficult at times,” Fry said, her voice cracking as she spoke of her high school sweetheart and husband of nearly 11 years. “But I’ve found that life goes on, as hard as it is. You never forget, you never stop missing that person, but you move forward.”
Fry said she has befriended the widows of other fallen Iraq and Afghanistan soldiers, taking advice from the women who dealt with their spouse’s death before her.
“I’ve called some at 2 a.m. just to cry, and we’re the best of friends now,” Fry said.
She said she also has begun reaching out to women who have recently lost their husbands in the wars.
“We usually sit around and talk about our husbands, about what happened to them,” Fry said. “I try to let newer widows know that it is better to talk about it than to let it build up inside you, and let them know that you are not alone, and though you never get over it, you learn to live with it.”
Fry said one of her favorite memories of her husband is from an e-mail he sent her a month after he was deployed to Iraq in 2005. John had climbed on the roof of a home to survey unexploded bombs in its backyard, and he heard a young Iraqi child giggle nearby. He played peek-a-boo with the child for a few minutes to gain his trust, then picked the child up and moved him to a safe distance and defused the bombs.
“He said that that made it clear to him that he was there for children, so that children didn’t have to play in a backyard with bombs in it,” Fry said. “He said ‘I want to make sure my children never have to live in a country like that,’ and that was my husband. He was a Marine, and he did his job, and he had this soft center and loving soul.
Published on Friday, June 12, 2009
By Regina Dennis (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
A new provision to expand GI Bill education benefits for the children of fallen service members will be named in honor of a Lorena man who was killed while on duty in Iraq.
The Marine Gunnery Sgt. John David Fry Scholarship would cover the full cost of a college education for all children of military members serving after Sept. 11, 2001, who are killed in combat or active duty.
The scholarship’s namesake, John Fry, a Lorena native stationed in Iraq, was killed in March 2006, when a hidden roadside bomb he was attempting to defuse exploded. The 28-year-old had been set to return just one week after that fatal incident for a scheduled six-month leave.
U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, added the provision to the 2009 Supplemental Appropriations bill that funds military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. A House and Senate conference committee approved the bill Thursday, and it will be sent to the floor for a vote next week.
Edwards said he met Fry’s widow, Malia Fry, and three children at a 2007 Veterans Day ceremony in Waco in which four McLennan County veterans who were killed in Iraq were honored. He said he was especially moved by Fry’s commitment, volunteering to defuse three roadside bombs as his group was being relieved from duty, a move that led to his death when a fourth bomb under one he had defused exploded.
“I can hardly tell his story without becoming emotional about it,” Edwards said Thursday. “I felt these scholarships ought to have a face on them and a story behind them, so I felt it was appropriate to name them (after Fry).”
The current GI Bill allows a soldier who died in active duty since the Sept. 11 attacks to transfer educational benefits to only one dependent. The soldier must have served at least six years with an additional four-year commitment, and the soldier’s children must serve at least three years in the military to receive full benefits.
The scholarship provision will expand GI Bill benefits to all the children of post-Sept. 11 fallen solders and waives the service commitment. It will cover the tuition and fees up to the maximum in-state tuition at a public university and will include a monthly housing allowance and up to $1,000 for books and supplies each year.
“I’m hoping this sends a message of respect to every serviceman and woman that when you go into harm’s way for your country, our prayer is that you don’t have to give your life, but if that happens, we’re not going to forget your children,” Edwards said. “This legislation is as meaningful to me as any legislation I’ve ever passed because who could be more deserving of our support than children whose moms or dads have died in military service to our nation.”
Fry’s widow, Malia Fry, said Thursday that she was grateful for the honor, and said her three children, Kathryn, 12, Gideon, 10, and C.L., 5, would be even more proud of their father.
“I am truly honored and speechless that (Edwards) was so moved by my family,” Fry said after Edwards called her Thursday morning to tell her that the scholarship provision would be named after her husband. “The great thing is that this will not just benefit my children, but every fallen (soldier’s) children. I know that John would be so proud to have something like that named after him. It’s amazing.”
In 2008, Edwards jumped aboard Fry’s efforts to have the Lorena post office renamed in her husband’s honor, sponsoring a resolution passed by Congress approving the name change.
The Marine Gunnery Sgt. John D. Fry Post Office Building at 1190 Lorena Road was officially dedicated on March 27. Fry said she hopes postal patrons will be inspired by her husband’s service.
Since her husband’s death, Fry has worked to preserve his memory for the couple’s three children. There are photo albums, videos of him reading to his children and playing with the family, and voice mail messages he left for each of the three children. A photo of John is posted over her youngest son C.L.’s bed, and he kisses his father good night at bedtime.
“It’s been difficult at times,” Fry said, her voice cracking as she spoke of her high school sweetheart and husband of nearly 11 years. “But I’ve found that life goes on, as hard as it is. You never forget, you never stop missing that person, but you move forward.”
Fry said she has befriended the widows of other fallen Iraq and Afghanistan soldiers, taking advice from the women who dealt with their spouse’s death before her.
“I’ve called some at 2 a.m. just to cry, and we’re the best of friends now,” Fry said.
She said she also has begun reaching out to women who have recently lost their husbands in the wars.
“We usually sit around and talk about our husbands, about what happened to them,” Fry said. “I try to let newer widows know that it is better to talk about it than to let it build up inside you, and let them know that you are not alone, and though you never get over it, you learn to live with it.”
Fry said one of her favorite memories of her husband is from an e-mail he sent her a month after he was deployed to Iraq in 2005. John had climbed on the roof of a home to survey unexploded bombs in its backyard, and he heard a young Iraqi child giggle nearby. He played peek-a-boo with the child for a few minutes to gain his trust, then picked the child up and moved him to a safe distance and defused the bombs.
“He said that that made it clear to him that he was there for children, so that children didn’t have to play in a backyard with bombs in it,” Fry said. “He said ‘I want to make sure my children never have to live in a country like that,’ and that was my husband. He was a Marine, and he did his job, and he had this soft center and loving soul.
Published on Friday, June 12, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Local News: Voter ID Controversy Prevents Environmental Legislation Progress
Legislative Meltdown Dims Hope for Environmental Progress
By J.B. Smith (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
Among the casualties of the legislative melee in Austin last week was the environment, with broadly supported bills on clean air, solar incentives and energy efficiency left on the killing floor.
State Sen. Kip Averitt of McLennan County felt the pain. The Republican heads the Senate Natural Resources Committee and filed major clean-air and renewable energy legislation, most of which failed to pass the House.
“A lot of really good work and a lot of effort went by the wayside at the end of the session as the House was fussing over the voter ID bill,” Averitt said, referring to the issue that dominated the House for four crucial days late in the session.
Averitt spent the last weeks of the session salvaging parts of Senate Bill 16, his clean-air bill that passed the Senate but died in the House. He tacked pieces of that bill onto House bills as amendments.
Part of his agenda survived, including a $20-million-plus incentive program for industries to install new technologies that reduce air emissions. Those emissions include carbon dioxide, a global-warming gas that has not been regulated in Texas.
Also salvaged was a provision that Texas seek a place at the table on federal discussions on greenhouse gas regulation, a topic that state officials have largely avoided until now.
But several key points of Averitt’s original legislation failed, including:
* A statewide program to trade in energy-wasting refrigerators and air conditioners.
* New energy-efficiency standards on consumer products such as pool pumps and water dispensers.
* New energy-efficient building codes.
* A $4,000 incentive for plug-in hybrid cars.
* A requirement that state regulators consider the cumulative impact of coal-fired power plants during the permitting process — a position supported by the city of Waco and other past opponents of Central Texas coal-fired plants.
Averitt also had supported the Senate’s passage of $500 million in solar energy incentives. Those provisions also died in the House.
He said the legislation’s failure will limit Texas’ potential to become a leader in solar energy, a position it already has in wind energy.
“We just put ourselves a little farther behind,” he said. “We need to be not only installing solar technology but manufacturing the equipment in Texas.”
Sid Bolfing, fuel cell and renewable energy technology coordinator at Texas State Technical College in Waco, agreed that the Legislature missed an opportunity.
‘A big disappointment’
“It’s certainly a big disappointment to me and other folks really rooting for renewables,” he said. Bolfing is waiting for a green light from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating board to offer a two-year degree in solar technology at TSTC starting this fall.
Still, Bolfing thinks the market for solar technology will continue to grow, aided by federal tax incentives and the rapidly decreasing cost of solar panels.
“Even though it failed in the Legislature, there’s a huge effort for solar power,” he said. “Most people think energy rates will continue to rise.”
Tom “Smitty” Smith, head of the environmental group Public Citizen Texas, shared Averitt’s frustration over the session.
“It has been one of the worst sessions in decades, largely due to the voter ID bill killing most of our efficiency and renewables agenda,” he said.
However, he said the Legislature made some progress, such as the incentives for air-emission reductions at industries such as coal- fired power plants and cement kilns. That could help existing coal plants reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
“We oppose coal plants, but there are a lot of coal plants in this country,” Smith said. “Even in my most utopian moments I can’t see shutting down all the coal plants in the next 20 years.”
Averitt said the session wasn’t a total bust for environmental issues, pointing to several conservation-related bills that did pass:
* Legislation that requires annual soil testing and new testing protocols for cow manure application fields in the North Bosque watershed, which runs into Lake Waco.
* Legislation extending the deadline for other counties to join McLennan County’s new groundwater-conservation district and modifying its rate structure.
* A new groundwater-management district also was formed out of Johnson, Hill and Somervell counties, a growing North Central Texas region that faces heavy water demand by the gas-drilling and nuclear power industries.
Averitt said the environmental bills that failed were victims of the same partisan politics that killed other popular measures, such as child health insurance. House Democrats managed to kill the voter ID bill by “chubbing,” or prolonging debate on other issues to keep unwanted legislation off the House floor.
Averitt supported the voter ID bill, saying the “security of the ballot box” was important to citizens.
‘It was handled poorly’
But he added: “It was handled poorly. It’s just one issue. Whether you’re for it or against it, I don’t believe it rises to the level of being worth killing all the other necessary legislation.
“You could blame Republicans for bringing it up or Democrats for their tactics to kill it. There was enough blame for everybody.”
Published on Thursday, June 11, 2009
By J.B. Smith (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
Among the casualties of the legislative melee in Austin last week was the environment, with broadly supported bills on clean air, solar incentives and energy efficiency left on the killing floor.
State Sen. Kip Averitt of McLennan County felt the pain. The Republican heads the Senate Natural Resources Committee and filed major clean-air and renewable energy legislation, most of which failed to pass the House.
“A lot of really good work and a lot of effort went by the wayside at the end of the session as the House was fussing over the voter ID bill,” Averitt said, referring to the issue that dominated the House for four crucial days late in the session.
Averitt spent the last weeks of the session salvaging parts of Senate Bill 16, his clean-air bill that passed the Senate but died in the House. He tacked pieces of that bill onto House bills as amendments.
Part of his agenda survived, including a $20-million-plus incentive program for industries to install new technologies that reduce air emissions. Those emissions include carbon dioxide, a global-warming gas that has not been regulated in Texas.
Also salvaged was a provision that Texas seek a place at the table on federal discussions on greenhouse gas regulation, a topic that state officials have largely avoided until now.
But several key points of Averitt’s original legislation failed, including:
* A statewide program to trade in energy-wasting refrigerators and air conditioners.
* New energy-efficiency standards on consumer products such as pool pumps and water dispensers.
* New energy-efficient building codes.
* A $4,000 incentive for plug-in hybrid cars.
* A requirement that state regulators consider the cumulative impact of coal-fired power plants during the permitting process — a position supported by the city of Waco and other past opponents of Central Texas coal-fired plants.
Averitt also had supported the Senate’s passage of $500 million in solar energy incentives. Those provisions also died in the House.
He said the legislation’s failure will limit Texas’ potential to become a leader in solar energy, a position it already has in wind energy.
“We just put ourselves a little farther behind,” he said. “We need to be not only installing solar technology but manufacturing the equipment in Texas.”
Sid Bolfing, fuel cell and renewable energy technology coordinator at Texas State Technical College in Waco, agreed that the Legislature missed an opportunity.
‘A big disappointment’
“It’s certainly a big disappointment to me and other folks really rooting for renewables,” he said. Bolfing is waiting for a green light from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating board to offer a two-year degree in solar technology at TSTC starting this fall.
Still, Bolfing thinks the market for solar technology will continue to grow, aided by federal tax incentives and the rapidly decreasing cost of solar panels.
“Even though it failed in the Legislature, there’s a huge effort for solar power,” he said. “Most people think energy rates will continue to rise.”
Tom “Smitty” Smith, head of the environmental group Public Citizen Texas, shared Averitt’s frustration over the session.
“It has been one of the worst sessions in decades, largely due to the voter ID bill killing most of our efficiency and renewables agenda,” he said.
However, he said the Legislature made some progress, such as the incentives for air-emission reductions at industries such as coal- fired power plants and cement kilns. That could help existing coal plants reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
“We oppose coal plants, but there are a lot of coal plants in this country,” Smith said. “Even in my most utopian moments I can’t see shutting down all the coal plants in the next 20 years.”
Averitt said the session wasn’t a total bust for environmental issues, pointing to several conservation-related bills that did pass:
* Legislation that requires annual soil testing and new testing protocols for cow manure application fields in the North Bosque watershed, which runs into Lake Waco.
* Legislation extending the deadline for other counties to join McLennan County’s new groundwater-conservation district and modifying its rate structure.
* A new groundwater-management district also was formed out of Johnson, Hill and Somervell counties, a growing North Central Texas region that faces heavy water demand by the gas-drilling and nuclear power industries.
Averitt said the environmental bills that failed were victims of the same partisan politics that killed other popular measures, such as child health insurance. House Democrats managed to kill the voter ID bill by “chubbing,” or prolonging debate on other issues to keep unwanted legislation off the House floor.
Averitt supported the voter ID bill, saying the “security of the ballot box” was important to citizens.
‘It was handled poorly’
But he added: “It was handled poorly. It’s just one issue. Whether you’re for it or against it, I don’t believe it rises to the level of being worth killing all the other necessary legislation.
“You could blame Republicans for bringing it up or Democrats for their tactics to kill it. There was enough blame for everybody.”
Published on Thursday, June 11, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Support the Petition: College Station Should Vote on Red Light Cameras
The red light cameras in College Station have sparked grassroots activism in our community against what is perceived to be an intrusion of government and a violation of civil liberties. As the debate has unfolded Left of College Station has covered the developments and the different perspectives to the debate.
There is the argument to be made that the current operation of the red light cameras does not enforce the law equally. If you receive a ticket after being recorded by a camera running a red light it is only considered a civil violation. However, if you receive a ticket from a police officer it is considered a criminal offense. Two different penalties, for the same crime. There is also the problem that arises with challenging the tickets; residents who receive the tickets are not afforded the same opportunities to challenge their guilt that they would if they were given a ticket by a police officer.
The National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running supports red light cameras. The NCSRLR supports red light cameras because it believes that they are a “proven method of increasing road and intersection safety.” However, the NCSRLR, like other organizations, have ties to insurance companies and the companies that produce the red like cameras. Other organizations that support red light cameras are the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the Governors Highway Safety Association.
There is only one significant organization that opposes red light cameras National Motorists Association, a for-profit organization. However, this organization also opposes any safety regulation of automobiles. Also, the NMA supports raising the blood alcohol content (BAC) limits that would qualify someone for receiving a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) violation. Simple put the NMA is just another lobbying organization, and it has no regard for public safety.
Red light cameras are an interesting and controversial idea, and if they are enforced effectively and fairly they could be a benefit to the community. However, the manner in which they are currently operated does not enforce the law equally. There have been studies on red light cameras; however, these studies suggest that there is no broad consensus on what effect the cameras have on traffic safety. Also, it is useful to raise money for the local and state government using the cameras, as long as the money is used for an acceptable purpose.
As a liberal and progressive I support an active government, I believe it is important for the government to provide for the general welfare of its citizens. The question that is often debate is what constitutes when the government should take an active role in providing for the general welfare, and where distinctions should should be made for when the government should not take an active role. One area in which the government should take an active role is public safety. In the rhetoric of this debate it has been noticed that opponents of the red light cameras argue that accidents are going to happen, however, it is the government’s responsibility to take steps to prevent accidents.
On another note, I found it interesting that the organizer of the movement became involved with the issue after he received a ticket for running a red light. Ash does not argue that he has a right to run a red light, but that he has a right to legally challenge his accusers. However, it illustrates how so many of us do not recognize when civil rights and civil liberties are being infringed unless that are our civil rights and civil liberties are being infringed upon. As Martin Luther King once wrote while imprisoned in a jail, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” I hope those that are supporters of this movement take note, and take notice of violations of rights of people that have no voice and no legal recourse.
Left of College Station does not support the manner in which the red light cameras are currently operated, however, if the manner in which the red light cameras was modified Left of College Station could support the cameras under certain circumstances. Whether or not you are against or support red light cameras, you should support the petition to place the issue before the voters. Left of College Station supports any action that creates greater democratic involvement within the community.
There is the argument to be made that the current operation of the red light cameras does not enforce the law equally. If you receive a ticket after being recorded by a camera running a red light it is only considered a civil violation. However, if you receive a ticket from a police officer it is considered a criminal offense. Two different penalties, for the same crime. There is also the problem that arises with challenging the tickets; residents who receive the tickets are not afforded the same opportunities to challenge their guilt that they would if they were given a ticket by a police officer.
The National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running supports red light cameras. The NCSRLR supports red light cameras because it believes that they are a “proven method of increasing road and intersection safety.” However, the NCSRLR, like other organizations, have ties to insurance companies and the companies that produce the red like cameras. Other organizations that support red light cameras are the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the Governors Highway Safety Association.
There is only one significant organization that opposes red light cameras National Motorists Association, a for-profit organization. However, this organization also opposes any safety regulation of automobiles. Also, the NMA supports raising the blood alcohol content (BAC) limits that would qualify someone for receiving a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) violation. Simple put the NMA is just another lobbying organization, and it has no regard for public safety.
Red light cameras are an interesting and controversial idea, and if they are enforced effectively and fairly they could be a benefit to the community. However, the manner in which they are currently operated does not enforce the law equally. There have been studies on red light cameras; however, these studies suggest that there is no broad consensus on what effect the cameras have on traffic safety. Also, it is useful to raise money for the local and state government using the cameras, as long as the money is used for an acceptable purpose.
As a liberal and progressive I support an active government, I believe it is important for the government to provide for the general welfare of its citizens. The question that is often debate is what constitutes when the government should take an active role in providing for the general welfare, and where distinctions should should be made for when the government should not take an active role. One area in which the government should take an active role is public safety. In the rhetoric of this debate it has been noticed that opponents of the red light cameras argue that accidents are going to happen, however, it is the government’s responsibility to take steps to prevent accidents.
On another note, I found it interesting that the organizer of the movement became involved with the issue after he received a ticket for running a red light. Ash does not argue that he has a right to run a red light, but that he has a right to legally challenge his accusers. However, it illustrates how so many of us do not recognize when civil rights and civil liberties are being infringed unless that are our civil rights and civil liberties are being infringed upon. As Martin Luther King once wrote while imprisoned in a jail, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” I hope those that are supporters of this movement take note, and take notice of violations of rights of people that have no voice and no legal recourse.
Left of College Station does not support the manner in which the red light cameras are currently operated, however, if the manner in which the red light cameras was modified Left of College Station could support the cameras under certain circumstances. Whether or not you are against or support red light cameras, you should support the petition to place the issue before the voters. Left of College Station supports any action that creates greater democratic involvement within the community.
Tonight on Biased Transmission
Tonight on Biased Transmission: “In the Name of God", new music from David Rovics about the murder of Dr. George Tiller in Kansas.
The guest today will be Charlie Lindahl. The main topic of the show will be "hactivism,” defined as "the nonviolent use of illegal or legally ambiguous digital tools in pursuit of political ends. These tools include web site defacements, redirects, denial-of-service attacks, information theft, web site parodies, virtual sit-ins, virtual sabotage, and software development." Also being discussed is "citizen journalism," where members of the public play an active role in the process of collecting, reporting, analyzing and disseminating news and information.
In addition there will be several songs by Lu Mitchell and Catch-23. Lu and her group will be performing at a house concert at Danny Yeager’s house on Friday, June 12 at 7:30 PM.
Information on the House Concert:
Part of the Radical as Reality Itself house concert series, the cost of admission is $10-$20 on a sliding scale and children admitted at no charge. Refreshments include potluck snacks and BYOB (soft drinks, beer, and wine). The doors open at 7:00pm, and the concert starts at 7:30pm. Reservations will probably not be necessary, but reservations will assure a seat.
For More Information…
Email: touchst@cy-net.net
Phone: (979) 777-8758
The guest today will be Charlie Lindahl. The main topic of the show will be "hactivism,” defined as "the nonviolent use of illegal or legally ambiguous digital tools in pursuit of political ends. These tools include web site defacements, redirects, denial-of-service attacks, information theft, web site parodies, virtual sit-ins, virtual sabotage, and software development." Also being discussed is "citizen journalism," where members of the public play an active role in the process of collecting, reporting, analyzing and disseminating news and information.
In addition there will be several songs by Lu Mitchell and Catch-23. Lu and her group will be performing at a house concert at Danny Yeager’s house on Friday, June 12 at 7:30 PM.
Information on the House Concert:
Part of the Radical as Reality Itself house concert series, the cost of admission is $10-$20 on a sliding scale and children admitted at no charge. Refreshments include potluck snacks and BYOB (soft drinks, beer, and wine). The doors open at 7:00pm, and the concert starts at 7:30pm. Reservations will probably not be necessary, but reservations will assure a seat.
For More Information…
Email: touchst@cy-net.net
Phone: (979) 777-8758
Local News: Anti-War Activist Sheehan Returns to Waco
Three Years After Crawford Protests, Cindy Sheehan Returns to Speak in Waco
By Tim Woods (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
Peace activist Cindy Sheehan’s return to Central Texas drew about 55 people Tuesday night to hear her speak at Poppa Rollo’s Pizza.
The event was a stop on Sheehan’s book tour to promote Myth America, the latest of her four books.
Sheehan, whose son, Casey, was killed in Iraq in 2004, garnered the attention of the nation in 2005 when she and other anti-war protesters gathered in Crawford outside the ranch of former President George W. Bush. The protesters demanded the president’s justification for the Iraq war and asked for the immediate withdrawal of all troops.
Tuesday night, Sheehan railed not only against Bush and his policies but also against President Barack Obama and other politicians who Sheehan says are perpetuating Bush’s war policies.
“It’s about challenging the policies and not the person,” Sheehan said after her talk, referring to her willingness to now protest Obama’s actions. “I’ve been in several protests of Obama, and there’s no coverage, but then I go protest George Bush in Dallas, and there’s an overwhelming amount of media coverage.”
The protester, who was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize following her Crawford vigil, repeatedly referred to the two classes she sees in America, the “robbers” and the “robbed.”
A poignant moment at the event came during the question-and-answer session after Sheehan’s talk. A man asked Sheehan if she would be who she is and do what she does “if it weren’t for April 4,” the date her son was killed in Sadr City, Iraq.
After Sheehan said she could not answer that hypothetical question, the man, Timothy Priddy, told her that his platoon was there the day Casey was killed.
Following the event, Priddy said he agrees with some of Sheehan’s beliefs but wonders if she is tarnishing her son’s legacy.
“I agree, but at the same time I think she degrades what he stood for,” Priddy said. “I understand where she’s coming from, but my point is, if it wouldn’t have happened, would she be here today, or would she be living the life that she’s arguing against?”
Published on Wednesday, June 10, 2009
By Tim Woods (Tribune-Herald staff writer)
From the Waco Tribune-Herald
Peace activist Cindy Sheehan’s return to Central Texas drew about 55 people Tuesday night to hear her speak at Poppa Rollo’s Pizza.
The event was a stop on Sheehan’s book tour to promote Myth America, the latest of her four books.
Sheehan, whose son, Casey, was killed in Iraq in 2004, garnered the attention of the nation in 2005 when she and other anti-war protesters gathered in Crawford outside the ranch of former President George W. Bush. The protesters demanded the president’s justification for the Iraq war and asked for the immediate withdrawal of all troops.
Tuesday night, Sheehan railed not only against Bush and his policies but also against President Barack Obama and other politicians who Sheehan says are perpetuating Bush’s war policies.
“It’s about challenging the policies and not the person,” Sheehan said after her talk, referring to her willingness to now protest Obama’s actions. “I’ve been in several protests of Obama, and there’s no coverage, but then I go protest George Bush in Dallas, and there’s an overwhelming amount of media coverage.”
The protester, who was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize following her Crawford vigil, repeatedly referred to the two classes she sees in America, the “robbers” and the “robbed.”
A poignant moment at the event came during the question-and-answer session after Sheehan’s talk. A man asked Sheehan if she would be who she is and do what she does “if it weren’t for April 4,” the date her son was killed in Sadr City, Iraq.
After Sheehan said she could not answer that hypothetical question, the man, Timothy Priddy, told her that his platoon was there the day Casey was killed.
Following the event, Priddy said he agrees with some of Sheehan’s beliefs but wonders if she is tarnishing her son’s legacy.
“I agree, but at the same time I think she degrades what he stood for,” Priddy said. “I understand where she’s coming from, but my point is, if it wouldn’t have happened, would she be here today, or would she be living the life that she’s arguing against?”
Published on Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Are More Americans Pro-Life?
Are Americans really more pro-life? The truth is that it is the wrong question. The question of whether or not someone identifies as pro-life or pro-choice has as much to do with the terms themselves that it does with their views on abortion.
A recent Gallup poll reported that 51% of those surveyed identified as pro-life, while 42% identified as pro-choice. For the first time since Gallup began polling on the subject in 1995 a majority of Americans self identified as pro-life. However, when you look at the public’s specific views on the legality of abortion it has remained relatively constant over the last thirty-five years. Since 1975 at least 48% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal under certain circumstances, and at least 22% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal under all circumstances. While those surveyed who believe that abortion should be illegal in all circumstances has never had more than 22% and as low as 12%. Currently 53% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal in certain circumstances and 22% believe it should be legal in all circumstances.
A recent Gallup poll reported that 51% of those surveyed identified as pro-life, while 42% identified as pro-choice. For the first time since Gallup began polling on the subject in 1995 a majority of Americans self identified as pro-life. However, when you look at the public’s specific views on the legality of abortion it has remained relatively constant over the last thirty-five years. Since 1975 at least 48% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal under certain circumstances, and at least 22% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal under all circumstances. While those surveyed who believe that abortion should be illegal in all circumstances has never had more than 22% and as low as 12%. Currently 53% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be legal in certain circumstances and 22% believe it should be legal in all circumstances.
From Gallup.com
CNN/Opinion Research Corporation asked if respondents would want the Supreme Court completely overturn its Roe v Wade decision, and 68% of those surveyed did not want the decision overturned. Public opinion in support of Roe v Wade has remained constant, if not increasing, over the last twenty years. This is perhaps a much more truthful depiction of the public’s overall opinion on abortion, there is a difference between a people self identifying as pro-life or pro-choice and their propensity to support legal abortion. Nate Silver of 538 notes “the terms ‘pro-choice’ and ‘pro-life’ are at least somewhat fungible; years of Democrats saying things like ‘I am personally opposed to abortion, but I don't think I have a right to impose my few on the rest of society’.”
From FiveThirtyEight.com
The most recent poll on the subject is an Associated Press and GfK poll that found that 20% of those surveyed believe that abortion should be completely illegal, and 24% believe it should be legal in most cases. Also, 19% believed that abortion should be legal in all cases, and 33% believed that it should be legal in most cases. (5% of those polled were unsure about the legality of abortion) The percentage of those who believe abortion should be completely illegal decreases when you ask the question differently. When asked if abortion should be made illegal without any exceptions (cases of rape, incest and to save the mother's life), a NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll found that only 10% believe that it should be completely illegal.
The issue becomes even more complex when you take into a consideration that a recent Rasmussen Reports poll found that 52% of those surveyed believe that it is too easy to obtain an abortion in the United States, while only 13% believe it is too hard to get an abortion. However, according to the Guttmacher Institute 87% of all counties in the United States do not have an abortion provider. Also, according to the same Rasmussen poll 29% of those that self identified as pro-choice also believe that most abortions are morally wrong. This shows that although someone may believe that abortion is morally wrong, they also believe that the choice should be available.
What begins to become apparent when looking at a broad view of the polling data is that roughly the same percentage believe that it should be either completely legal or completely illegal (20%). The majority of Americans (the other 60%) have a much more nuanced view of abortion, and believe that abortion should be neither completely illegal or completely legal. While Fox News describes the poll as a “cultural shift” and Townhall characterizes the poll as a “watershed moment for the pro-life movement,” however, it is unlikely that this represents a complete change in Americans’ views of abortion and more likely that it represents a change in Americans’ perception of the terms “pro-choice” and “pro-life.”
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