Lake Bridgeport Sandflat News

2006-10-30T12:09:00.000-06:00

Ignorance breeds fear; fear breeds hate ...
And Intellectual snobbery breeds useful idiots

The phrase “useful idiots” refers to naieve communist and leftist sympathizers in the United States who zealously advance a leftist agenda without understanding that often they are being used by subersive forces intent on destroying the US. The phrase is attributed to Lenin who is thought to have said in reference to Western capatalists, “They will sell us the rope with which to hang them."

One of the best descriptions of useful idiots comes from Bagder Blog Alliance.

“ . . .The useful idiot never sees the big picture and typically are driven by blind hate and ignorance. They are led by and feel they belong to, an arrogant and self proclaimed leftist intelegensia, who think you are too stupid to know the truth of any subject matter.”http://badgerblogalliance.blogspot.com/2006/10/useful-idiots.html

Yesterday’s Fort Worth Star-Telegram op ed piece, “Ignorance breeds fear; fear breeds hate . . .”, by David J. Keeling, is a prime example of an arrogant, high-brow, useful idiot lecture – the kind most of our children receive in major universities around the country. Keeling is a professor of geography at Western Kentucky University, so expecting independent thought from the left-leaning university intelegensia is pretty hopeless.

His article begins, “During the past five years, America's "war" on terrorism and increasing global instability have become intimately connected to fundamental changes in this country's cultural geographies -- changes that could well lead to increased extremism and terrorism in the homeland.”

The kind of “terrorism in the homeland” that Keeling is writing about, however, addresses only one kind of terrorism - extremist fundamentalism and home-grown terrorism in the "land of the free.” He conveniently avoids questions of border security, illegal immigration, and the fact that Mid Eastern terrorists have already breached our southern borders.

(See: The just released report by the House Committee on Homeland Security entitled, "A Line in the Sand: Confronting the Threat at the Southwest Border")
http://www.grassfire.net/r.asp?u=1142&rid=11013911

Keeling wants us all to “to see ourselves in a broader, more enlightened context” and, as one of the self-proclaimed enlightened, his lecture is pretty one-sided. Oh yes, he’s cleaver enough to briefly address extremism on both the left and the right “the politics of fear and hatred,” but the body of his article belies a heavily nuanced left-tilt attack against the right.

“The government is fueling the fires of radicalism by pushing culturally sensitive issues such as abortion, gay rights, flag burning, gun ownership, censorship and religiously driven fundamentalist views on many aspects of private American life. These culture wars are diverting attention from the real global challenges facing the U.S. and creating an environment of hate, fear and ideological extremism. . . .”

Least we misunderstand where Keeling’s loyalties actually lie; we are treated to a skillfully manipulated leftist spin. Note that “personal destruction and hate” epitomizes the right but the left, at their worst, are merely “extremists” such as William Rivers Pitt.

“From the politics of personal destruction and hate epitomized by rightists such as Ann Coulter to the extremist views of leftists such as William Rivers Pitt, mainstream American society is under assault.”

The further along Keeling goes into his article, the more radicalized and cynical his lecture becomes, but isn’t it cute how he disavows his own cynicism???

“After all, global ignorance is most certainly in a government's best interests, as uninformed voters provide no curb at all on government excess. More cynical commentators might argue that creating the conditions for extremism and terrorism at home provides the government with ample ammunition to exert further control over the populace and to weaken individual privacy rights.

What better way to mobilize the government and the military against the general population than to argue that they are now fighting a "war" against terrorism on home soil?”

Wait a minute . . . Haven’t I already seen the movie??? Now where have I seen this not so thinly veiled attack on the War on Terror before? Oh Yes, it’s "V for Vendetta, " a neo-Marxist piece of blatant leftist propaganda. Well, that’s how it is with useful idiots, they are more heavily informed by Hollywood than by exercising anything that passes for historical perspective or critical thought.

“Based on the graphic novel series of the same name, "V" comes complete with all the bogeymen the far left loves to hate: NSA spying and wiretaps; government torture complete with Abu Ghraib hood fashions; lecherous, elderly Christian clerics in collars raping young girls; Islam, gay rights, and free speech under attack; and even a Bill O'Reilly-esque evil cable talk show host/wicked pharmaceutical billionaire/heinous military officer combo rolled into one character.” Source: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1592100/posts

Like most of the left, Keeling’s prescription against fear is as simplistic as any pre 9/11 leftist mantra; overcome global ignorance and we will love the world, and the world will love us. In the mean time, let’s let Keeling’s true motives be perfectly clear. He really wants to instill fear against the “ignorant” fools who see through his leftist agenda.

“While they carry on about Bush being behind the 9/11 attacks and using the war on terrorism to advance his totalitarian plans, much of Hollywood has the warm and fuzzies for the most corrupt and brutal tyrannies on earth. . .”
Source: http://www.donfeder.com/filecabinet//03232006.doc

Here’s just a little reminder. Healthy rational fear is necessary for survival!

"There are times when fear is good. It must keep its watchful place at the heart's controls. There is advantage in the wisdom won from pain."
Aeschylus

A Line in the Sand

See: The just released report by the House Committee on Homeland Security entitled, "A Line in the Sand: Confronting the Threat at the Southwest Border"

This chilling report that confirms:
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigations have revealed that aliens were smuggled from the Middle East to staging areas in Central and South America, before being smuggled illegally into the United States.
- Members of Hezbollah have already entered the United States across the Southwest border.
-U.S. military and intelligence officials believe that Venezuela is emerging as a potential hub of terrorism in the Western Hemisphere. The Venezuelan government is issuing identity documents that could subsequently be used to obtain a U.S. visa and enter the country.

To access the report click here: http://www.grassfire.net/r.asp?u=1142&rid=11013911

2006-10-16T16:46:00.000-05:00

Bud Kennedy’s Race-baiting Agenda?
Wise County Under Attack - Again

In case you haven’t read Bud Kennedy’s latest assault on the Wise County Republicans, “Wise County GOP likes letter-perfect candidates”, published in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram on Friday, October 13th, let me point out to Bud and to the rest of our readers that there’s far, far more to this little story!!! So stick with me as this story unfolds . . .

According to Kennedy,
. . .“The local party Web site lists not only the candidates on the Nov. 7 ballot but also their race.
Surprise.
Every Republican candidate in Wise County is listed carefully as “Ethnicity: AE.”
A code at the bottom explains that “AE” stands for “American European.” . . .

Source: http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/15755574.htm

According to the county 2000 census, Wise County is 91.01% White, and there are no other local Republican candidates but Anglos. Still, there is no excuse for including the race or ethnicity of a candidate on a party web site. So why did the Republican Party Chair, D.A. Sharpe, include race and ethnicity?

Unlike Bud Kennedy, who was probably afraid to thoroughly vet his story, I decided to ask the Democratic Party Chair, Brenda Rankin, her take on this puzzling question.

Today Mrs. Rankin explained to me that she has known Mr. Sharpe for years and that she has great respect for him and for his integrity. As a matter of fact, she said that everyone who has ever worked with him has respect for him and that he is very kind and gracious and there is nothing racist about him or his intentions. According to Rankin, D.A. Sharpe, an older man, has a great interest in genealogy and it probably never occurred to him that what he was doing was not politically correct. He probably thought he was doing everyone a favor by listing the candidate’s genealogical backgrounds. Mrs. Rankin went on to say that Mr. Sharp has worked long and hard to get minorities in as election judges.

So how did this story get so blown up and where did Bud Kennedy get his information? A little Googling will quickly show that Kennedy has been continuously fed defamatory information about the Wise County Republicans, which he simply regurgitates without any real vetting, for quite some time.

This latest story evolved from postings by a woman who goes by TXSharon on the local Wise County Messenger Forum and on her own multiple “progressive” blogs. After being accused of constant and continuously blatant race-baiting on the WCM forum by several posters, TXSharon went out in search of anything she could use to once-again defame the Wise Republican Party. Then she started posting defamatory statements about everybody from the Christian right to Kinky and the Wise Republicans on her own blog at the well-known leftist Daily Kos site http://www.dailykos.com/story/2006/10/14/155821/25

Interestingly, TXsharon always ends her post comments with this little ditty “The Christian Right is neither Witness Every Day”

Here’s a reader’s comment on Barry Green’s blog “Liberally Lean from the Land of Dairy Queen” that tells “the rest of the story.” Hint to Bud - Links are included so readers can vet this story because you failed to vet by simply following your buddy TXSharon’s links.

“With regard to your link to TXSharon’s blog subject “Update: Republicans busted for blatant racism. Worse than Allen!”

“Where’s the rest of the story?
What made TXSharon go looking for anything she could find on the Wise Republicans this time?

Here’s the real scoop. TXsharon was rebuffed by two Independents and one Democrat for constantly race-baiting. All of those posters had publicly stated that they were going to vote for several Democratic candidates. Because TXsharon had announced on several subject postings that she was working in the David Van O’s campaign they thought that her race-baiting would harm his and other Democratic chances.

TXSharon actually provided the answer when she offered a link to the local “racists” . .

“I realize now that I have been slightly beaten down and suppressed by the local racists who accuse me of "race baiting" when I call them out.”

Since TXSharon was kind enough to supply the link, I hope someone out there will actually read the entire Wise County Messenger forum discussion that started this latest outburst. It can be found at http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=756&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=15

Instead of backing off from the race-baiting, TXsharon reiterated:
“I implied that Republicans have a base full of racist and haters and that the Republicans use the issue to excite that base just as they did before the 2004 election with their religious base.”

Concerned about how her race-baiting would affect Democratic candidates, one poster, Breezy, asked:

Speaking of your display of “political acumen”. . . You have openly announced on this forum on more than one occasion that you support David Van O’s for Attorney General, and that you are working in his campaign. So, more than what I say, what you say here and on your blog is a direct reflection on him. I like everything I’ve heard concerning Van O’s and I plan on voting for him. So I have to wonder what kind of reflection your constant race-baiting has on his campaign. What would he think about your statements? Would he support your race-card playing, or would he tell you to kindly “shut up” or disassociate yourself from his campaign? I’d really like to know, because that will effect my final decision. . . .”

At that point TXsharon appeared to call in her loyal troops for assistance.

Again TXsharon and her race-baiting minions were rebuffed by Breezy:

“That’s exactly true. I know that we are all for varying notions of immigration reform here. But to imply that those who are against massive illegal immigration must be racists, who are “demonizing Mexicans”, is race-baiting. To call the Republican base, the majority of the party, “racists and haters,” is race-baiting. To attempt to link those majority of Americans who are against massive illegal immigration to the religious right and/or Identity Christianity, to the militia movement, to the Klan or Arian Nation Brotherhoods, or to xenophobes, is race-baiting.

It is legitimate, however, to question if this is a wedge issue “that is being driven by the Republicans to create fear and excite the racists and xenophobic and to get out and vote.” (I just quoted TXsharon on that.) In the same way, it is legitimate to question the use of race-baiting as an attempt to create fear of Republicans among those minorities and marginalized peoples and groups in order to keep them in the Democratic fold. As an independent, I see fear-mongering tactics employed by both the Republicans and Democrats. This clouds the issue by keeping us focused on the underhanded tactics rather than being able to find viable solutions.”

Still more protests to Txsharon and her group of race-baiters. This was from Sierra’s Mom

THAT was uncalled for!! Whether you agree or disagree with someone on the issues, stooping to “name calling” is…excuse me for saying this, but…childish!! This is most likely why so many people will NOT post on the board! We can agree on issues…we can disagree on issues and debate them…great!! That’s what this country is all about!!

And a loyal Democrat, named 7117, protested to TXSharon

“You like to " put a spin" on anyone's post that disagrees with you. You've been called on this practice more than once on this board. Now as far as I'm concerned ...post what you think is in your best interest. It's your right to do so. However... I'll remind you that we are in a crucial election in this state and just a few weeks away. It would be in the best interest of the Democrat candidates that you claim to be in constant touch with...if you not drive any voters away or get them to questioning the candidates stand on the issues important to them...just because they are not important to you. Because of your repeated responses and lack of courtesy in answering my concerns regarding securing our southern borders and the fact that you appear to be representing Chris Bell on this board, that I've began to look at the other candidates running for governor.” Source: http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=756&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=90

So, Now you know the rest of the story!!!”
Source: http://skattershooting.blogspot.com/2006/10/theyre-all-white-up.html#comments

Note to Bud Kennedy. Your less than reputable source is now known. If you had bothered to do a little checking with local Democrats, as well as with local Republicans, you would have discovered that there is quite a lot of unity in what is thought about the notorious TXSharon. So instead of looking for something to spin left, why not try a little Vetting??? Until then, perhaps you belong with your buddies who are still spewing their race-card playing venom on the WCM at
http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=840

2006-09-30T14:20:00.000-05:00

North American Union Here Now
Twenty+ stories from conservative and liberal sources that will change your world-view

National Sovereignty. No other issue has managed to unite traditionalist conservatives, liberals, independents, and Libertarians in opposition to the secret formation of the North American Union by the Bush administration. Today we have the ongoing creation of a new country right under the shade of our collective nostrils- the North American Union!!! As improbable as it seems, the creation of this new country (by influential “open-border” elitists and multi-national corporate globalists), which will eventually make obsolete our constitution and irrelevant our national laws, is currently underway. CNN’s Lou Dobbs called it “beyond belief” but true.

Dobbs said, “You know, I was asked the other day about whether or not I really thought the American people had the stomach to stand up and stop this nonsense, this direction from a group of elites, an absolute contravention of our law, of our Constitution, every national value. And I hope, I pray that I'm right when I said yes. But this is – I mean, this is beyond belief." . . .

Here are some excerpts from news items you probably missed because most of the main-stream media has refused to address the issue. Last night, however, CNN news started to raise questions. Now if you don’t have the time to read these excerpts, just scan the headlines and the bold print. If you manage to connect the dots, then you are miles ahead of the majority of folks who are asleep at the wheel because they are reliant on the major networks.

“Newly Uncovered Commerce Department Documents Detail “Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America

U.S. Government Working Groups & Business Leaders Seek to “Harmonize” Regulations with Canada and Mexico (Washington, DC) -- Judicial Watch, the public interest organization that promotes transparency, accountability and integrity in government, politics and the law, today released records obtained under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) from the International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce concerning the “Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America.”

On March 23, 2005, heads of government Vincente Fox, George W. Bush, and Paul Martin launched the North American partnership at a meeting in Waco, Texas, with the expressed goal of “a safer, more prosperous North America.” According to the documents, the partnership’s “working groups” include government and business leaders from the United States, Mexico and Canada, who are addressing a variety of topics, including movement of goods between countries, traveler security, energy, environment and health. Proponents of the partnership claim its purpose is to increase security and prosperity for all three nations through enhanced cooperation. Critics maintain the partnership will sacrifice U.S. sovereignty by establishing a “North American Union,” with open borders and a common currency. . .”
Source: http://www.judicialwatch.org/5979.shtml

“Ok here’s the primer for those who don’t want to download the International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce document “Final Recommendations from the U.S. Section of the North American Competitiveness Council (NACC)”. . .

Open Borders . . .Basically the final recommendations are pushing the development of a non-discretionary, low-cost, easily obtainable, federally issued document, “such as an enhanced driver’s license or identity card” for all travelers as an alternative to the passport.

(Note: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State (DOS) now have new requirements. American citizens-entering or re-entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean will have to present “documents denoting both identity and citizenship by January 1, 2008”).

The final recommendations would also have the US work with the Canadian and the Mexican governments to certify their ID’s so that eventually just licenses could be used for travel into the US.

In the mean time, however, the recommendations are for the DHS to set up a “limited short-term pass program” to facilitate people who come to the border without documents!!! The final recommendations are that “A reasonable grace period should be established at border crossings, during which time people lacking documents are educated about their options and allowed to pass.!!!”
Source: http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=724

“ACLU and Allies Oppose Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Say Plan Undermines Privacy, Provides Little Security WASHINGTON -

The American Civil Liberties Union today joined with Citizen Against Government Waste and the Cato Institute to oppose the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). The WHTI will require all travelers, including American citizens, to have a passport or other "appropriate security document" to enter or re-enter the United States from countries within the Western Hemisphere, including Canada and Mexico. . .

The WHTI was mandated by the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, and is slated to roll out in 2008. CAGW today issued a report outlining the shortcomings of the WHTI program. . .

"At its core, the WHTI only gives the illusion of security," Sparapani added.

"Terrorists, smugglers and undocumented immigrants could still find ways to enter the country or obtain false documents. The privacy of Americans should not be compromised under a failed program." Source: http://www.aclu.org/safefree/general/26681prs20060907.html

“Toll road contract at issue in governor's race to be made public

KELLEY SHANNON September 28, 2006 Associated Press AUSTIN -

Previously secret parts of a contract to develop the Trans-Texas Corridor that have been a contentious issue in the governor's race are going to be made public right away, state officials said Thursday. . .”
Source: http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/news/state/15630758.htm

“North American merger topic of secret confab

Meeting on integration of U.S., Mexico, Canada brings together top officials World Net Daily September 20 2006 WASHINGTON – Raising more suspicions about plans for the future integration of the U.S., Canada and Mexico, a high-level, top-secret meeting of the North American Forum took place this month in Banff – with topics ranging from "A Vision for North America," "Opportunities for Security Cooperation" and "Demographic and Social Dimensions of North American Integration. . ."
Source: http://www.prisonplanet.tv/subscribe.html

The "Soft" Revolution
The following is from a bog written this week by Kevin Craig, running for Congress - Libertarian Party Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, 7th District, Missouri,

“SPP Destroying Evidence?
. . ."soft law" -- unsigned and even unwritten laws that advance the agenda of hemispheric integration without allowing Congress to exercise congressional oversight. . .

As you are reading this, a new government is being created which will overrule all laws and constitutions in the United States. The progress being made in this "soft revolution" will continue unabated regardless of whether or not anything was signed on March 23, 2005. We need representatives in Congress who will work to stop it.

Unfortunately, this issue is not on the political radar of most voters in 2006, and many important milestones in the creation of the North American Union are scheduled for completion in 2007, which will create political and legal inertia that will make it even more difficult to stop in 2008. . .”
Source: http://kevinforcongress.blogspot.com/2006/09/spp-destroying-evidence.html

“SOLD! America III

Bonnie Alba September 26, 2006

Perhaps the most important story of the 21th century is happening away from the public eye. The first-step plan implementation is the Trans-Texas Corridor(TTC), a super highway slated to begin construction in 2007. On September 30, in a kickoff protest across 70-77 counties, many Texans will step into the sunlight, make their way to their county seats and lay a "cupful of soil" from their land on the courthouse steps. "Hands Across the Corridor" is their cry. (indytexans.org) . . .

This isn't just about the TTC, but also about other planned toll road projects which will affect many more Texans and their livelihoods. It appears that Gov. Rick Perry has fallen for the future vision of a three-nation union with no borders, no security, and the pluralism-multiculturalism which threatens all of us. . .

Robert Pastor, Director of the Center for North American Studies at American University, has written extensively on and pushed for his vision of a North American Union based on the European Union model. He also served as a co-chair of the 2005 Council of Foreign Relations task force promoting "Building a North American Community." (www.cfr.org/publication/8102/.) . . .

Are we too soft and complacent? Do we really understand what we will lose?

The Texans may be the first to face this gigantic, strategic plan to destroy our sovereignty. They will know, firsthand, the loss of their property rights and be left with the knowledge that their state and federal governments no longer secure citizens in their property. But they won't be the last. . .
Source: http://www.renewamerica.us/columns/alba/060926

Please review an article in this blog from January 2006:

“The Trans Texas Corridor: Tollway to One World Government It Isn’t Just Fringe Fanatics Who Are Worrying Now

Here’s what the Council on Foreign Relations wants to dictate to us . . . We are being told that we must consolidate the economic communities of Mexico, the US, and Canada. We are being told that National Sovereignty is an “outdated concept.” We are being told that in order to protect the American public from terrorists we must create a new community - the North American Union!!! All these things are coming together to build this “new relationship”: the North American Security Cooperative Act, the passage of NAFTA, CAFTA, the forthcoming FTAA (Free Trade Areas of the Americas), and the route to get us there is the Bush/Perry Trans Texas Corridor!!! . .”
Source: http://sandflat.blogspot.com/2006/01/trans-texas-corridor-tollway-to-one.html

To read the chilling excerpts from Dr. Robert A. Pastor's testimony go to The Council on Foreign Relations

Source: http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:8Rjcb86XX58J:www.cfr.org/publication/8173/north_american_community_approach_to_security.html+%22North+American+Cooperative+Security+Act%22&hl=en

Our " Favorite Store " Is Ready for the TTC...

"The " world's largest retailer" Wal Mart Corporation, evidently has some insight on all of this. Check out the link below and see what's been happening in Mexico and Central America. "

Go to: http://walmartstores.com/GlobalWMStoresWeb/navigate.do?catg=14

“North American Union
The "plan to create" a North American Union in 2010 as a regional government—comprising a collective government for the United States, Canada, and Mexico—is "directly stated only" in the May 2005 task force report Building a North American Community

See:(http://www.cfr.org/publication/8102/building_a_north_american_community.html) published by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Jerome Corsi wrote (http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=15763) June 26, 2006. . . .

A North American Union is being created "through a process of governmental regulations" and without ever "having to bring the issue before the American people for a clear referendum or vote," Corsi wrote (http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=15059) May 24, 2006. "
Source: http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=North_American_Union#NAFTA_Super-Highways

“NAFTA Super-Highways
What is objectionable is the plan to form a European Union-style North American Super-Highway system whose primary goal is to establish trilateral links for the open passage of freight transportation and the virtually unrestrained 'migration' of people among the three countries. Building NAFTA Super-Highways that effectively erase the U.S. borders with Mexico and Canada is a concern, especially if the NAFTA Super-Highways contribute to accomplishing in a de facto manner the integration of the United States into a North American Union, thereby threatening the currently established sovereignty of the United States," Corsi wrote (http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=15839) June 30, 2006. . .

Lamb wrote. "NASCO claims that 'There are no plans to build a new NAFTA Superhighway - it exists today as I-35.' This, however, is at odds with reality," Lamb wrote. "The goal is to build and operate a privately funded toll-corridor that includes up to 10 lanes of car and truck traffic, rail lines, pipelines and utilities, including communications systems. The current agreement is limited to Texas, but fits nicely into the master plan being advanced by NASCO.

"It also fits nicely into the vision of the Council on Foreign Relations' [May 2005] report: Building a North American Community (http://www.cfr.org/content/publications/attachments/NorthAmerica_TF_final.pdf), which advocates 'unlimited access to each other's territory' (page 47), including allowing Mexican or Canadian companies to freely enter the U.S. to compete with U.S. trucking companies, hauling freight between U.S. cities." . . .

Source: http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=North_America%27s_SuperCorridor_Coalition%2C_Inc.

“The superhighway no one is funding

By Admin, Section National News Posted on Sat Sep 02, 2006 at 07:59:44 AM EST

by Joseph Farah,

Between the Lines Another key congressman - Rep. Roy Blunt, majority whip in the House of Representatives - is telling his constituents the federal government has nothing to do with the idea of building the "NAFTA superhighway."

This is at least the third Republican member of Congress either playing dumb or deliberately deceiving American taxpayers by claiming no federal dollars have flowed into the project. . . .”
Source: http://www.missourileadership.com/story/2006/9/2/65944/48934

"NAFTA highway or new silk road?

By William Hawkins The Washington Post September 24, 2006

On Sept. 7, the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP), a government office established in March to increase cooperation between the United States, Canada and Mexico, released a progress report. Among its achievements was creation of an American Competitiveness Council to enhance North America's posture in the struggle for hotly contested global markets.

Unfortunately, major events are already unfolding that will undermine this belated attempt to respond to ambitious rivals who have been piling up ever-higher trade surpluses at the expense of American-based enterprises.

A flurry of articles over the summer painted the SPP as a step toward a North American Union that would submerge national sovereignty and open the U.S. to mass migration and political corruption. Human Events launched the story from the right, but it spread across the spectrum to the Daily Kos on the left. . . .

One focus of the articles was a planned corridor of highways and railroads from Mexico into the American Midwest dubbed the "NAFTA Highway." Some of the stories sought to revisit the debate over the North American Free Trade Agreement, but what is really behind this transportation network heralds the collapse of NAFTA and its dream of a stronger continental economy. NAFTA was supposed to combine cheap Mexican labor with U.S. capital and technology to improve competition with Asian rivals . . .

The Chinese firm Hutchison Whampoa has partnered with Wal-Mart in a $300 million expansion of Lazaro Cardenas to handle perhaps 2 million containers annually by the end of the decade. The American Chamber of Commerce in Guangdong, China, has held seminars promoting this Mexican port. . . .

While American-based manufacturers will continue to suffer under the barrage of Chinese goods, Mexican industry will be smashed flat by what should be called a new Silk Road rather than a NAFTA highway. The economic development goals of NAFTA are being abandoned. More than 600 of the maquiladoras assembly plants along the U.S.-Mexican border have relocated to China, leaving their Mexican workers behind. There is little chance for Mexican wages to rise if at $1.50 an hour they can be undercut by Chinese labor at 50 cents an hour. . . .”

Source: http://washingtontimes.com/commentary/20060923-084008-4624r.htm

Trans Texas Corridor Master Plan Released

Drivers willing to pay to leave Interstate 35 in the dust could have an alternative as early as the summer of 2013. . . .

Because passenger vehicles pay 15.2 cents per mile and truck drivers pay 58.5 cents per mile, the whole plan relies on travelers and freight companies being willing to pay the toll, said Dillard, the Texas Department of Transportation spokesman. . .

The company then will have the rights to the tolls for 50 years, and by then, the road could be generating billions of dollars each year . . .

“Texans didn’t get a chance to vote on this, it’s just getting rammed down our throats,” said Rick Wegwerth, leader of the Waco anti-corridor group, DERAIL. . . .

Source http://www.wacotrib.com/news/content/news/stories/2006/09/29/09292006wacttc.html

Note: According to a January 25, 2005 article by Gordon Dickson, a staff writer for the Fort Worth Star Telegram, since Cintra began controlling tolls in Canada, “Tolls have gone up 200 percent!”

“Students train in 'model parliament' for new North American Union!

N. American students trained for 'merger' 10 universities participate in 'model Parliament' in Mexico to simulate 'integration' of 3 nations

WASHINGTON – In another example of the way the three nations of North America are being drawn into a federation, or "merger," students from 10 universities in the U.S., Mexico and Canada are participating annually in a simulated "model Parliament." Under the sponsorship of the Canadian based North American Forum on Integration, students met in the Mexican Senate for five days in May in an event dubbed "Triumvirate," with organizers declaring "A North American Parliament is born." . . .

"The creation of a North American parliament, such as the one being simulated by these young people, should be considered," explained Raymond Chretien, the president of the Triumvirate and the former Canadian ambassador to both Mexico and the U.S. . . .

Perhaps the most blistering criticism came earlier this summer from Lou Dobbs of CNN – a frequent critic of President Bush's immigration policies.

"A regional prosperity and security program?" he asked rhetorically in a recent cablecast. "This is absolute ignorance. And the fact that we are – we reported this, we should point out, when it was signed. But, as we watch this thing progress, these working groups are continuing. They're intensifying. What in the world are these people thinking about? You know, I was asked the other day about whether or not I really thought the American people had the stomach to stand up and stop this nonsense, this direction from a group of elites, an absolute contravention of our law, of our Constitution, every national value. And I hope, I pray that I'm right when I said yes. But this is – I mean, this is beyond belief." . . .

The concerns about the direction such powerful men could lead Americans without their knowledge is only heightened when interlocking networks are discovered. For instance, one of the components envisioned for this future "North American Union" is a superhighway running from Mexico, through the U.S. and into Canada. It is being promoted by the North American SuperCorridor Coalition, or NASCO, a non-profit group "dedicated to developing the world’s first international, integrated and secure, multi-modal transportation system along the International Mid-Continent Trade and Transportation Corridor to improve both the trade competitiveness and quality of life in North America." . . .
Source: http://www.alipac.us/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=1536

Now Available: The Final Report 2006 (including the final resolutions) The Triumvirate in La Reforma :"The Only North American Model Parliament” (47 page pdf file)

http://www.fina-nafi.org/eng/triumvirat06/documents/Finalreport2006.pdf

“Model Parliament Organizers make clear their intent:

The creation of a North American parliament, such as the one being simulated by these young people, should be considered,” explained Raymond Chretien, the president of the Triumvirate and the former Canadian ambassador to both Mexico and the U.S. . . .

Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-Colo. and the chairman of the House Immigration Reform Caucus as well as author of the new book, “In Mortal Danger,” may be the only elected official to challenge openly the plans for the new superstate.

Responding to a WND report, Tancredo is demanding the Bush administration fully disclose the activities of the government office implementing the trilateral agreement that has no authorization from Congress. . .”

Source: http://www.disgrunt.com/2006/09/29/mexicans-have-better-claim-to-us-than-euro-americans/

“North American Union Would Trump U.S. Supreme Court

by Jerome R. Corsi Posted Jun 19, 2006

The Bush Administration is pushing to create a North American Union out of the work on-going in the Department of Commerce under the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America in the NAFTA office headed by Geri Word. A key part of the plan is to expand the NAFTA tribunals into a North American Union court system that would have supremacy over all U.S. law, even over the U.S. Supreme Court, in any matter related to the trilateral political and economic integration of the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Right now, Chapter 11 of the NAFTA agreement allows a private NAFTA foreign investor to sue the U.S. government if the investor believes a state or federal law damages the investor’s NAFTA business. . .

Like it or not, NAFTA Chapter 11 tribunals already empower foreign NAFTA investors and corporations to challenge the sovereignty of U.S. law in the United States. . .

Under the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) plan expressed in May 2005 for building NAFTA into a North American Union, the stakes are about to get even higher. . .

The CFR plan clearly calls for the establishment of a “permanent tribunal for North American dispute resolution” as part of the new regional North American Union (NAU) governmental structure that is proposed to go into place in 2010. As the CFR report details on page 22: . . .

The executive branch under the Bush Administration is quietly putting in place a behind-the-scenes trilateral regulatory scheme, . .

We will develop a trilateral Regulatory Cooperative Framework by 2007 to support and enhance existing, as well as encourage new cooperation among regulators, including at the outset of the regulatory process. We wonder if the Bush Administration intends to present the Trilateral Regulatory Cooperative Framework now being constructed by SPP.gov to Congress for review in 2007, or will the administration simply continue along the path of knitting together the new NAU regional governmental structure behind closed doors by executive fiat?

Source: http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=15623

Source: http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=15623

“Is our 2nd Civil War about to begin?

A couple of posters have hinted that we may be on the verge of another civil war. If so, who will fight this war??? More likely, we will be merged before the American public even learns the truth!!!

Since most Americans are pretty fat, happy, dumbed-down, and complacent, and are totally reliant on the mainstream media, we won't be fighting any civil wars. Let's just think of this merger as sort of a Big Box type of take over. Big Box moves into town and offers some real bargains and benefits. Next thing you know all the Mom and Pop stores are out of business, gone, and forgotten. Remember when Wal Mart used to advertise that all of the products that they carried were "Made in America"? Then remember what happened? So, too, will go the USA as we once knew it. That is unless we can wake up quite a few more folks. . .”

Source: http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=732

2006-09-15T11:04:00.000-05:00

North Side Marina and Resort Gears Up For Fall

North Side Marina and Resort is gearing up for the upcoming Fall Season as cooler weather has arrived. North Side announces that lower fall cabin rental rates are now available.

In anticipation of lower water levels in the lake, the Marina dock has been permanently moved further out to ensure deeper water. For boaters and local residents who are dry docked, a few boat slips are still available on an annual or month-to-month basis. You can still launch boats at Wise County Park on one of the ramps .

North Side Marina and Resort is still offering combination cabin and boat rentals for those who want to get away from it all and experience Lake Bridgeport . Pontoon rentals will continue into the fall season. For those with their own boat, you may also keep your boat at the Marina during your cabin rental. North Side Marina is now offering previously owned boats for sale as well.

Located on the north end of Lake Bridgeport adjacent to the new Moonlight Bay development, the Marina features a brand new Ship’s Store and a 24 hour pay at the pump gas dock that is fully operational on deep water. The Ship’s Store provides area boaters with all the essentials needed for a day at the lake.

The North Side website has become very popular and includes photo albums of Lake Bridgeport and all of the cabins. There is also a Fishing page with pictures of big catches, fishing tips and other fishing information for Lake Bridgeport enthusiasts .

Cabin and boat rental requests can be made via the website or by calling the Marina directly.

Marina phone: 940-644-5475
Marina website: http://www.northsidemarina.net/

For further information or inquiries, contact Jeanne or Alan Kennedy at 940-644-5475.

2006-08-25T00:19:00.000-05:00

Water Going, Going . . .Angry Texas Cities, North Star Pointe Sales Event

Is Wise County Drying Up???

We’ve gotten used to our constantly receding Lake Bridgeport - down 16 feet and counting. Now, just try to drill a water well these days and see what might happen . . .

The talk on the Wise County Messenger forum comes from some folks in the know. And if what they are saying is true, the picture is very, very grim. Here’s the gist of some of the talk that should raise a few eyebrows.

According to the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council a oil/gas well is fracked an average of 17 times! About 1 to 6 Millions gallons of water are used to frac a well each time. Much of the water used is ground water. From June 2004 to November 2005 421 permits were issued “(not all permits resulted in a completed well)”

"Gallons of water used to frack 421 wells 17 times
1 Million 7,157,000,000
3 Million 21,471,000,000
5 Million 35,785,000,000

Gallons of water used to frack ONE well 17 times
1 Million 17,000,000
3 Million 51,000,000
5 Million 85,000,000"

Additionally, “oil and gas is exempted from ANY ground water regulations that are imposed on a private resident or other business, regarding ground water usage.”

But why should this bother us? “A very well known driller of private water wells in Wise County has recently stated that the major aquifer that supplies water to most of Wise County residents through private water wells, has dropped 100 feet in the past couple of years from where it used to be.”

According to one poster on the WCM forum . . .

“Recently, a nearby resident to me, here in NE Wise County, wanted to irrigate his small hay field in order to try and get a second cutting this year. As we all know, hay is about like gold around here right now. This resident had previously applied for, and obtained, the necessary permit to use ONLY a certain volume of water out of a nearby creek/stream for this irrigation. Unfortunately though, that large "WATER PIT" at the intersection of Hwy 51 and Hwy 455 was dug by oil and gas to use as a source of drilling and fracking water. The tank trucks continually come to that huge water pit, dumping water into it, one truck after another, and sometimes two trucks at a time. In the beginning, some of those trucks were allegedly permitted to take A CERTAIN AMOUNT of water out of the same creek/stream that my friend was also permitted to irrigate from. Low and behold, those tank trucks drained that creek/stream dry of all it's water so my friend wasn't able to irrigate his hay field and therefore wasn't able to produce anymore badly needed hay!”

Note: Want to guess where those tank trucks are getting most of their water???

Source: Wise County Messenger Forum, Local News & Events
http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=630

Angry Texas Cities: Traffic Congestion or Pro Corridor Spin???

Men's Health Magazine has released it's list of the 100 angriest cities in America, and at least nine are in Texas. The magazine's survey considered blood pressure, violence and traffic congestion in its anger equation.

“Our search for evidence of urban anger began with the percentage of men with high blood pressure, from the CDC's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (as calculated by Sperling's BestPlaces). We then factored in FBI rates of aggravated assaults and Bureau of Labor Statistics numbers on workplace deaths from assaults and other violence. And because rage and the road often go hand in hand, we also included traffic-congestion data from the Texas Transportation Institute, as well as speeding citations per state from the Governors Highway Safety Association.”

It looks like the angriest states are: California with twelve cities listed. Texas has nine cities on the list, and Florida has five cities that made the angriest list. But then again, we must ask ourselves “Just how valid is this list?” For one thing, it was awfully nice of the Texas Transportation Institute to share its data because no other state transportation lobby is mentioned. Could it be a bid to positively spin the Trans Texas Corridor as the solution for traffic congestion???

Here’s the list:

“ (From most to least angry cities)

1. Orlando, FL
2. St. Petersburg, FL
3. Detroit, MI
4. Baltimore, MD
5. Nashville, TN
6. Wilmington, DE
7. Miami, FL
8. Memphis, TN
9. Jacksonville, FL
10. St. Louis, MO
11. Chicago, IL
12. Tampa, FL
13. Jackson, MS
14. Albuquerque, NM
15. Charlotte, NC
16. Dallas, TX
17. Houston, TX
18. Tucson, AZ
19. Indianapolis, IN
20. Wichita, KS
21. Birmingham, AL
22. Providence, RI
23. Durham , NC
24. Altanta, GA
25. Washington, DC
26. Denver, CO
27. Philadelphia, PA
28. Baton Rouge, LA
29. Fort Worth, TX
30. Phoenix, AZ
31. Lubbock, TX
32. Cleveland, OH
33. Greensboro, NC
34. Cincinnati, OH
35. Arlington, TX
36. Los Angeles, CA
37. Buffalo, NY
38. Grand Rapids, MI
39. Boston, MA
40. Columbia, SC
41. Tulsa, OK
42. Aurora, CO
43. Seattle, WA
44. Sacramento, CA
45. San Diego, CA
46. Montgomery, AL
47. Raleigh, NC
48. Yonkers, NY
49. Oakland, CA
50. Fort Wayne, IN”
51. Newark, NJ
52. Las Vegas, NV
53. Columbus, OH
54. St. Paul, MN
55. Charleston, WV
56. Kansas City, MO
57. New York, NY
58. Oklahoma, OK
59. Toledo, OH
60. San Antonio, TX
61. Riverside, CA
62. Modesto, CA
63. Louisville, KY
64. Honolulu, HI
65. Richmond, VA
66. San Francisco, CA
67. Bakersfield, CA
68. Spokane, WA
69. Milwaukee, WI
70. Jersey City, NJ
71. Lexington, KY
72. Little Rock, AR
73. Lincoln, NE
74. Billings, MT
75. San Jose, CA
76. Hartford, CT
77. Minneapolis, MN
78. Boise, ID
79. Anaheim, CA
80. Norfolk, VA
81. Austin, TX
82. Fremont, CA
83. Fresno, CA
84. Anchorage, AK
85. Cheyenne, WY
86. Rochester, NY
87. Madison, WI
88. Salt Lake City, UT
89. Omaha, NE
90. Pittsburgh, PA
91. Colorado Springs, CO
92. El Paso, TX
93. Sioux Falls, SD
94. Des Moines, IA
95. Burlington, VT
96. Portland, OR
97. Corpus Christi, TX
98. Fargo, ND
99. Bangor, ME
100. Manchester, NH

Source: http://www.menshealth.com/cda/article.do?site=MensHealth&channel=health&category=metrogrades&conitem=9ca8a9f3340dc010VgnVCM10000013281eac____

North Star Pointe Sales Event This weekend

You might have noticed all the activity and truck traffic this week. North Star Pointe announced that on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26 and Aug. 27, it will be holding a new inventory release sale on all of its gorgeous Lake Bridgeport home sites. They are working at a furious pace to finish up the new pool and ramp area. As a matter of fact, they’ve got the lovely new pool filled with water now and almost completely landscaped.

Please be extra cautious this weekend because we all know how horribly dangerous our narrow, twisting roads can be.

2006-08-21T09:32:00.000-05:00

Trans Texas Corridor Comments Deadline Today!!!

THE LAST DAY TO MAIL TTC-35 COMMENTS IS MONDAY AUG 21ST

Monday is the last day to submit your comments on TTC-35 during the Tier One DEIS period. Submissions must be postmarked on or before August 21, 2006.

MAIL TTC-35 DEIS TIER ONE COMMENTS TO:
Mr. Ed Pensock, Jr., PEDirector of Turnpike Corridor SystemsTxDOT Turnpike Authority DivisionPost Office Box 14707Austin, TX 78761-4707

Or Go to the comments page and send in the form via the web at KeepTexasMoving.orghttp://www.keeptexasmoving.org/comments_questions/ttc-35_comments.htm

2006-08-20T08:53:00.000-05:00

Wise and Parker Counties Suffering Rapid Loss of Ground Water

The following is today’s editorial in the Wise County Messenger. I’ve added some comments/quotes in red below the highlighted lines of this article.

“Commissioners want a conservation district
By Skip Nichols
Published Sunday, August 20, 2006

"Wise County commissioners – led primarily by Kevin Burns and Robert Rankin – want a groundwater conservation district. “It looks like it will become a reality and not one drought or injection well too soon."

" . . .There are more than 31,000 injections wells in Texas—the most of any state. " (Note: Wise County leads the state in abandoned wells slated for injection wells)” http://sandflat.blogspot.com/2006/05/hazardous-injection-wells-new-texas.html

“There are over 70 commercial injection wells in Wise County where outside waste is brought in from elsewhere to contaminate our water. . . According to the Rail Road Commission web site there are 19,000 “abandoned” wells in Wise County. If those wells aren’t properly capped, injected toxic waste water will enter those well holes into the Trinity Aquifer from below.” http://sandflat.blogspot.com/2006/02/wise-county-toxic-dumping-ground-for.html

“The demand on our most precious resource – water – is increasing at an unprecedented rate. There are more folks moving into the county, which is exceeded by only the number of gas wells being punched into the earth beneath our beautiful home.”

So let’s build the Trans Texas Corridor and run the hazardous cargo bypass loop through Wise County! That way we can increase our population of people and hazardous wastes.

"Meanwhile, rainfall has virtually ceased over the past two years.”

We’ve been in an extended drought for at least eleven years.

The result? Aquifers are dropping rapidly.

The problem is most apparent in our neighboring county – Parker.

And Wise County!

That has gotten the attention of state Rep. Phil King (R-Weatherford), who represents Parker and Wise counties in the state House of Representatives.

In a late-night e-mail (he apologized for any spelling or grammatical errors) to John E. Cavenahone, one of his Parker County constituents, King addressed the issue.

Here’s part of his e-mail, which he said we could print:

“I’m on a well, too, and having problems that I’ve never experienced in the last 23 years. I’m trying to determine if it’s my well or the water table. I think it’s the water table.

“I am working very closely with the Water Development Board, the Railroad Commission and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality trying to get the correct facts on what is occurring in Parker County.

“What I’ve been surprised to learn is that there is very little hard data readily available on the aquifer in Parker County (and Wise). No agency (local, county, state or fed.) regularly monitors our water table. A measurement is taken each December by the Water Conservation Board from various monitoring wells around the county. I believe they began annual readings in 1949.

(Interestingly, according to the board’s records, there have been years that the aquifer was lower than recent years. It is cyclical with our rainfall.)

“I’ve also been surprised to learn that no one, not the RRC, TCEQ, no city, county, or state entity, knows the precise impact of gas well activity on our local water table. For example, we need to know how much ground water is being used for gas production relative to the total residential and commercial ground water use in our county. In other words, how big of am impact is drilling having? (My rough estimates suggest that gas production may represent as much as 7 or 8 percent of county-wide ground water use but no one really knows for sure.)

“No question, a gas well frac requires a tremendous amount of water. The RRC estimates an average per well of 1.5 million gallons. I think that’s a low estimate. On the other hand, a significant number of drilling and frac operations do not use ground water at all. These purchase surface water either out of a nearby stock tank or from a city with a surface water supply such as Weatherford or Fort Worth.

“Nonetheless, many people in Parker County, myself included, are experiencing severe problems with their water wells. This is due to a combination of factors – rapid population growth, gas well production and the severe drought. It is not gas well production alone as some have suggested. Gas well activity is part of the problem, but it is not the lone culprit. (For example, many other communities around North Texas are rationing water where there is no Barnett Shale drilling activity at all. And Wise County has much more gas production than Parker, but they are not having similar water problems.)”

King has since revised this once he found out that Wise County has water problems too.

Editor’s note: A staff member in King’s office said that has changed. The representative has been made aware of well problems now in Wise County.

“Bottom line, the current situation should not come as a surprise to anyone. For at least the last 20 years we have been hearing that the ground water supply could not indefinitely keep up with the local population growth (16 percent since 2000) and that the county needed to shift to surface water. A number of us, citizens and local elected officials, tried in 1999 and 2001 to implement a regional water solution. Unfortunately, try as we did, we could not get the necessary community support. In fact, we could not get anywhere near a consensus. (There was particular disagreement between the various municipalities and county officials over the structure of a county-wide water district.)

“So what’s the solution? It’s the same today as it was in 1999 and in 2001. “As much as we all dislike additional government intervention into our affairs, we need regional water management At this stage, a Groundwater Conservation District is probably the best answer for most of Parker County. The Legislature can create the district when we go back into session in January, but it will take the solid support of our city councils, commissioners court, and the community at large. Local community leaders will have to work together.

“I have my entire Capitol staff working on this issue. We are exploring legal options, potential agency enforcement and legislative options. I am more than willing to run with a legislative fix, but I will have to have the support of our communities to pass the legislation.”

Do you have an opinon on the ground water situation in Wise County? Let us hear from you. Write a letter to the editor or you can post your comments on our discussion group at http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum"

Source: http://www.wcmessenger.com/newsbindata/opinion/columns/Commissionerswantaconserva.shtml

2006-08-18T09:43:00.000-05:00

Lake Bridgeport Bullies? A Developing Story

Although this story is a true story that has been thoroughly vetted, names have been withheld – at least for now. My intention of publicizing this story is twofold. (1) Property owners on Lake Bridgeport need to be aware that this kind of thing can happen to them, and (2), Big-time developers need to be reminded that they gave their word to be “good neighbors” to the surrounding developments, and we intend to hold them to their promises.

Imagine, if you will, that you are the proud owner of a lovely lakeside cottage on Lake Bridgeport. You live in the DFW metroplex but you get up to the lake fairly often. This little spot is your haven – your retreat - your sanctuary. You like your lake neighbors and you count on them to keep an eye on your property.

A little over a year ago you had a rude awakening. You next door neighbor called you to inform you that your dock was being used by a neighboring Big-development sales person to load groups of prospective buyers into boats for a tour of the lake. You neighbor had confronted the sales person and that person claimed to have obtained your permission to use your dock. Of course, that was false.

You were incensed. “How dare they use my dock without my permission? We aren’t even part of that big development! What if one of those perspective buyers had fallen off of my dock? ”

You are a reasonable person. You know that if the big-time developer had only sought your permission to use your dock for loading purposes, you might have given it. But that didn’t happen.

You go out and you purchase a “No Trespassing Private Property” sign and you chain off your driveway. You thought you could rest easily. Wrong!

You come home last night after a hard day’s work. It’s sweltering with temperatures still soaring well above 100 degrees. You long to be up at your peaceful private little lake place. You check your phone messages. It’s a long distance call from one of your lake neighbors.

“Hi, I just wanted to let you know that the big development next to us is using your driveway to go down and dredge our cove between your and your neighbor’s houses. It’s probably a good thing, but I didn’t know if you had given them your permission to use your driveway.”

You immediately call your lake neighbor back.

“What??? No, I didn’t give any permission to use my driveway! What happened to my chain and my ‘No Trespassing Private Property’ sign? We’ve got water irrigation lines down there. What if they break our lines? Who do these guys think they are? Do they think they own the entire lake?”

Your neighbor replies. “Well it turns out that your next door neighbor gave them his permission to go down and dredge, but they are actually using your driveway to get down there. And you know, that little pathway next to the fence that the big-time developers put in because the developer promised us that they wouldn’t put in a road on to our development (because we informed him that it would be a violation of our restrictions) – well that little pathway has turned into a worn down path the size of a road. That’s the path they are using to come into your driveway with their big trucks and take out all that dirt. It’s probably because all those big trucks have already torn up the entrance road to that Big-time development. Oh, your chain and sign are lying on the side of your driveway.”

Well, as you can see, this little incident was probably an honest mistake made by the Big-time developer who simply failed to obtain permission of both neighbors. Or perhaps, the truck drivers didn’t understand that the driveway they were using was actually the wrong one. Or perhaps, the neighbor who gave his permission just assumed that his neighbors wouldn’t mind their driveway being used. Maybe he conveyed that assumed permission to the big-time developers? It doesn’t really matter how it happened, but that it did happen. And it will happen again. In the world of big-time land development it’s always a matter of do it now and ask questions later.

Here are three good neighbor tips:

1. If you are a Big-time developer, take extra caution not to step on and crush you little neighbors. Keep the promises that you have given. Be sure to first obtain permission of all property owners who will be directly affected by your actions. And then convey to your subcontractors exactly what that that permission entails.

2. If you are a property owner who plans to cut a deal with anyone that might directly affect your surrounding neighbors, please be sure to contact your neighbors first and let them know your plans. Don’t assume that your neighbors will be OK with your plans, and don’t ever give permission to anyone for your neighbors.

3. If you are a land owner and you see unusual or suspicious activity on your neighbor’s property, call that neighbor immediately. Don’t assume that everything is OK.

2006-08-05T09:54:00.000-05:00

A Republican Blog With a Liberal Political Agenda??? Keep Em Guessing . . .

Last week I received an e-mail lambasting me for spending too much time writing about horrors of the Trans Texas Corridor. The reader was sick to death of reading about the TTC, and told me to “Stop pushing your liberal political agenda . . ..”

(See Wise County Citizens Say “No” to Trans Texas Corridor!!! )

Today, while searching for published reports of the TTC hearings around the state, I noticed that someone else in Wise County had blogged about the public hearing held on July 12th in Decatur. Did that blogger come away with a similar impression? I had to find out, so I clicked on the link.

Well folks, that’s how I discovered that our Lake Bridgeport Sandflat News is a “Republican Blog”!!!

The following is from LiveJournal

Marc Parent mparent7777 wrote,@ 2006-07-16 08:11:00

“Prior to the hearing, a popular, Republican blog in Lake Bridgeport posted this message: The Trans-Texas Corridor: The Defining Issue in the Upcoming State Races . . .

The next day, the same Republican blog posted this message about David Van Os: Wednesday, July 12, 2006 Meet Our Next Attorney General"
Source: http://mparent7777.livejournal.com/10288509.html

Guess the jig is up and it’s confession time. So I just had to rush this into virtual print so all of our long-time readers could be set straight. I’m not sure what the give away was? Perhaps it was all the times I mentioned “Republicans” in my blog? Let’s see? I’ll just do a search on this blog. Gee, I only mentioned “Republicans” once in over 2.5 years on 7/1/06.

“Let’s hope that the Democrats and Republicans can do something positive to end this sickening stereotyping and polarization.”

How about my mentioning Democrats? Let me search that too? Guess I’m not too even-handed. I mentioned the Democrats once more, also on 7/1/06.

“Check out the new very user-friendly Wise County Democrats web site at ...”

Ohhh – now we see. That’s a dead give-away for an undercover Republican blog! Just put in a permanent link to the WiseDems.com but leave out the Republicans. What better way to undermine all liberals?

Now, because we are primarily a local news blog, I try to do our residents a favor by posting almost anything newsworthy sent in by our readers (if it’s in good taste). So when our local Democratic Chairwoman, Brenda Rankin, sent me information about the new WiseDems.com site (see permanent links), I posted it. As a matter of fact, we set up reciprocal links on our respective web pages.

I’d do the same for the Republicans if they asked me, but I haven’t been asked.

So when it comes to news blogs, the sincerest form of flattery has to come from maintaining a balanced political confusion. I suppose we’ll just have to keep em’ guessing!!!

2006-08-05T09:47:00.000-05:00

Trans Texas Hearings Nearing an End: Tracking Hearing Outcomes

TxDOT began holding 54 hearings last month and will finish next week. The hearings have been designed to allow residents across the state to voice their concerns and to offer suggestions regarding the proposed Trans-Texas Corridor- 35 project.

Before TXDOT can move ahead with the TTC-35, a preliminary report must be submitted for approval by the Federal Highway Administration. If, and when, the Federal Highway Administration approves the study area sometime next summer, separate 2 to 5 year studies will be required to determine the exact routing of specific projects.

The news reports coming in following most of the TTC hearings across the state have shown overwhelming opposition to the corridor project. Since its inception, this entire TTC project has been shrouded in secrecy. Is there going to be any public oversight concerning the “official” results of these hearings? Will the “official” results mirror the evidence gathered in news reports? Doubtful!!!

A number of grass roots groups have started to track the outcomes of these public hearings. An excellent site keeping tabs (and showing various hearing videos) is Somervell County Salon at http://salon.glenrose.net/somnewsttc.asp

Lake Bridgeport Sandflat News will be compiling a listing of all published reports of the public hearings on the Trans Texas Corridor-35. We are looking for impact statements from local residents during the hearings. If you have published or read a published report following a hearing anywhere in Texas, please send a link to that published report to lakebridgeportnews@yahoo.com

The federal government requires that TXDOT must address public comments made about the TTC. Please take the opportunity to make your public comments before August 21st.

Go to the comments page at KeepTexasMoving.org
http://www.keeptexasmoving.org/comments_questions/ttc-35_comments.htm

Or Mail your comment to:Mr. Ed Pensock, Jr., PEDirector of Turnpike Corridor Systems, Texas Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 14707, Austin, TX 78761-4707

2006-08-01T23:20:00.000-05:00

GOOD BREAK FOR BRIDGEPORT LAKE

"Tarrant Regional Water District will begin reducing the amount of water released from Lake Bridgeport into Eagle Mountain Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 9.
TRWD said the action will ensure it is able to maintain an adequate water supply for customers in Wise, Parker and Jack counties in the coming months.

TRWD said that residents and recreational users of Eagle Mountain Lake should see the lake level begin falling the second week of August and continue until the area receives enough rainfall to refill the reservoirs.

Without significant rainfall, TRWD engineers estimate that both Lake Bridgeport and Eagle Mountain could drop an additional four feet by the end of the year. Lake Bridgeport is almost 14 feet below conservation level and falling."

Read more... http://www.wcmessenger.com/update/

2006-08-01T10:44:00.000-05:00

Lake Bridgeport Levels Dangerously Low

Lake Bridgeport has dropped almost one foot in the last week from 822.79 to 821.80. Conservation Pool (that rare occasion when the lake is actually full) is 836. So today, the lake is down by 14.20 feet and it’s only August 1st.

The lake dropped almost 3 feet in the last month and the rate of drop will increase as summer progresses and as more water is taken out. As a matter of fact, the lake has dropped by .04 in the past 8 hours!

Boaters beware!!! Remember that the deepest part of this lake when full (on the main lake) is only 76.5 feet. Now subtract 14.20 feet from that. Keep your dept finder on at all times because several coves are already dangerously low. Many more docks are sitting on shore and many stumps are surfacing again. Some stumps are barely visible and are just skimming the surface. Many stumps are right in the middle of the river where you wouldn’t expect them. You won’t see them until it’s too late.

Now would be a good time to take your boat out of the water (if you still can), move your dock out, or extend your ramp.

Road Safety Tips

With all the new development out here, most of us have experienced our daily hair-raising encounters with many 18-wheelers, tankers, and every sort of oversized vehicle navigating our very narrow, twisting, and extremely dangerous county roads – especially here in Sandflat.

Remember to always hug the right side of the road at all times – especially when trying to see around a blind turn that’s been hidden by so much vegetation overgrowth. And when you are about to meet a large truck, and you know that there’s only inches of clearance between you, just slow down or stop, give a friendly wave, and let the monster truck pass.

By the way, I know that we have many new folks up here that can’t wait to get out their 4-wheelers and take to the country roads. Not!!! I’ve seen far too many children (unaccompanied by adults) driving full sized 4-wheelers on roads that are so dangerous that most adults are even scared to drive their pickups. Unless you live here full time, you have no idea just how often these monster trucks are barreling around a blind curve on some out of the way little lake neighborhood street!!!

The time is long past for 4-wheelers on our country roads! And it’s only a matter of time before we have a horrible tragedy, so just don’t do it.

2006-07-13T11:57:00.000-05:00

Wise County Citizens Say “No” to Trans Texas Corridor!!!

The TXDOT (Texas Department of Transportation) public hearing on the TTC (Trans Texas Corridor) was held on Tuesday evening at the Decatur Civic Center. A crowd of around 300 citizens gathered to hear the presentation. It was a presentation loaded with maps and video slides but very short on definitive answers. Following the presentation, eighteen speakers came forward to express their opinions about the controversial TTC. Of the eighteen speakers, only four supported the TTC, and three of those four were elected officials from North Richland Hills who came to Wise County to support the NCTCOG (North Texas Council of Governments) proposal to put a controversial alternate bypass route through Wise County.

The overwhelming negative response to the Trans Texas Corridor was evident. Thunderous applause erupted during the opposition talks, but a dropping pin could be heard when those few supporting the TTC spoke. Widespread political opposition to the TTC is growing. Both the Texas Democratic and Texas Republican 2006 Party Platforms have denounced the TTC. Gubernatorial candidates Strayhorn, Friedman, and Bell have denounced the TTC. David Van Os, Democratic candidate for Texas Attorney General, has come out against the TTC. The list of candidates (of every political affiliation) speaking out in opposition to the TTC is spreading faster than a grassfire.

It was obvious that the opposition speakers were well-informed and had come with plenty of ammunition. One speaker brought out the fact that there is more truck traffic in Wise County than in any other county in Texas and perhaps the entire country. A bypass route through Wise County would only increase already dangerous truck traffic, pollute the air with smog, and do nothing for the local economy because land taken by eminent domain for the TTC would be removed from the local tax rolls.

Speakers directly affected by having land in the TTC study area spoke of the prospect of losing their historic family land to eminent domain. One man spoke of not being able to sell his land near Eagle Mountain Lake due to the cloud of uncertainty that has depressed land values in the 10-mile wide study area.

Another citizen explained that building a massive tollway based on 54-year traffic pattern projections was ludicrous. He pointed out that in 1952 no one would have even dreamed of the internet or other modern innovations that have changed how we do business and move goods today. Few people today can even project how traffic patterns will be changed in five years by rising gas prices, alternative fuels, innovative hybrid cars, and other undreamed of inventions.

If the TTC goes through as planned, Texans will be paying ever rising tolls to the Cintra-Zachary consortium for the next 50 years. Much of the income will come from new toll taxes imposed on existing free roads that have already been paid for by our taxes. Cintra, a Spanish company, has a nasty reputation for aggressive toll collection and for raising tolls without public input. According to a January 25, 2005 article by Gordon Dickson, a staff writer for the Fort Worth Star Telegram, since Cintra began controlling tolls in Canada, “Tolls have gone up 200 percent!”

Hank Gilbert, Democratic Candidate for Secretary of Agriculture, believes that the Trans-Texas Corridor will be the defining issue in the upcoming state races. Gilbert spoke at the hearing about the loss of hundreds of thousands of acres of prime agricultural land to the TTC. According to Gilbert, toll roads will destroy the existing taxable land, driving up taxes for everyone whose land isn’t taken by the State for the TTC. The TTC will destroy Texas agriculture by making it impossible for Texas farmers and ranchers to obtain financing. Small business will be hurt when they can’t afford to relocate or pay massive concessions to Cintra. It has been projected that the TTC will remove as much as 584,000 acres of productive Texas agricultural land and will displace at least 1 million people from their homes!!!

Most of the opposition centered on the fact that the Trans Texas Corridor is part of the little publicized free-trade movement to integrate the U.S., Mexico and Canada into a European -style Union. This North American Union, if it comes about, would severely hamper, if not completely end, U.S. sovereignty.

TXDOT has been selling the TTC to the public as a means to alleviate future traffic congestion and to increase commerce. But TXDOT was accused during the hearing of misleading the public about the true purpose of the TTC by not openly publicizing the NAFTA intent for the TTC . Few people have bothered to read the 4,000-page Environmental Impact Statement posted on the Trans-Texas Corridor website. On page 3 it reveals the NAFTA purpose of the TTC project.

TXDOT has been accused by many of cronyism, insider dealings, and conflicts of interest and TXDOT is fighting to keep contract agreements with the Cintra-Zachary consortium secret. Last year, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott ruled that the contract must be made public. But the consortium and the transportation commission have filed suit to overturn that ruling on grounds that it contains sensitive proprietary information.

During the hearing it was pointed out by one speaker, that there will be no statewide or local vote on specific Trans Texas Corridor routes. Our county commissioners and county judge, however, will have input with TXDOT. Unless Texans can get some form of referendum or initiative process to roll back this horrible Corridor legislation, the Corridor will be built without full public disclosure and with no legislative oversight! This is why it is so very important for every Texan to vote this year for candidates who have pledged to fight the TTC, and who have a public record of fighting these insider corporate special interests.

Please Make Your Public Comments

The federal government requires that TXDOT must address public comments made about the TTC. Please take the opportunity to make your public comments before August 21st. Go to the comments page at KeepTexasMoving.org http://www.keeptexasmoving.org/comments_questions/ttc-35_comments.htm

Or Mail your comment to:
Mr. Ed Pensock, Jr., PE
Director of Turnpike Corridor Systems
Texas Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 14707
Austin, TX 78761-4707

For an eye-opening account of who stands to gain, read “Trans-Texas Corridor paved with campaign contributions?:San Antonio construction company, capital consortium from Spain stand to gain” at http://worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=51023

2006-07-12T17:51:00.000-05:00

Meet Our Next Attorney General

Please join David Van Os at breakfast Thursday morning, July 13, at 8:00 am at the Courthouse Cafe before he makes his "Whistle Stop" speech on the courthouse steps.
Here's an excerpt from David's weekly campaign letter.

"Give 'em hell" Harry Truman is one of my American political heroes. The pundits said there was no way he could win. But he was determined to carry on his fight against the corporate special interests despite the naysayers and to beat all the odds in order to do it. So he took his case directly to the people by Whistlestop tour, and the people responded,
and handed him a stunning upset victory.

The pundits and naysayers, including some in my own party*, say there is no way I can win. But I'm determined like my hero Harry Truman was, so I decided to take my case for fighting the corporate robber barons and the power grabbers directly to the people. . ."

* David is running on the Democratic ticket.

Read David's "NO to Slick Rick's Tolling Plans" on his home page at
http://dvo4txag.blogspot.com/2006/01/no-to-slick-ricks-tolling-plans.html

2006-07-11T06:44:00.000-05:00

The Trans-Texas Corridor: The Defining Issue in the Upcoming State Races

"Hank Gilbert, Democratic Candidate for Secretary of Agriculture, will be present at the Trans-Texas Corridor hearing at Decatur tonight starting at 5:00 with discussion to begin at 6:30. Speaking with Hank on the phone yesterday, he believes the Trans-Texas Corridor will be the defining issue in the upcoming state races. He plans on attending ALL of the 50 plus hearings scheduled.

Please make every effort to be at the hearing. We need a big showing to Fight Back against the biggest land grab in the history of the State.

Please forward this email to all your friends and neighbors. Go online to http://www.wisedems.com/ for more information.

Come, meet and hear Hank Gilbert speak. This is his campaign issue."

Thank you.
Brenda Rankin
County Chair

Hearing to be held tonight, Tuesday, July 11th, 5:00 to 7:00 PM, at the Decatur Civic Center, 2010 W. US 380

Sixteen Reasons Why All Texans Should Oppose Governor Perry’s Trans Texas Corridor

2006-07-07T08:02:00.000-05:00

Public Hearing on the Trans Texas Corridor
Tuesday, July 11th, 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Decatur Civic Center, 2010 W. US 380

This is one Public Hearing You Won't Want to Miss!!!

Here’s the process provided by Corridor Watch.com:

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE NEPA PUBLIC HEARING PROCESS.

These hearings seek comment on TTC impact to: farmland; Ag conversion; community travel patterns; community social disruption; emergency services; local retail; regional economy; property & sales tax revenue; disadvantaged populations; air quality; noise; water quality; wildlife; floodplains; threatened & endangered species; historical sites; cemeteries; archaeological sites; hazardous waste sites; and, visual quality.

Your opportunity has been created by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), a federal law that requires TxDOT to follow a specific process in assessing the environmental impact of their activities. These hearings follow the issuance of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). That document is available for your review. You do not need to read or understand the DEIS to participate in this process, share your comments, or express your opinions.

Through these hearings TxDOT must learn about the concerns and the issues they should address in the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Record of Decision (ROD). Your input will define the issues examined in their next round of environmental analysis.

This is a much more formal meeting than those held so far in the development of the TTC. As before there will be a period of open house visiting from 5:00pm to 6:30pm. Then at 6:30pm there will be a TxDOT presentation that should conclude by 7:00pm. Thereafter you and fellow Texans will be give the microphone to make your comments.

Attend one or more public hearing. You DO NOT have to attend the meeting in your area or county. You CAN comment at ANY of the public hearing locations. You do not even have to live, work, or own property in the path of TTC-35 to particiapte in the public hearing process. Yes, you can even drive from Houston, El Paso, or Lubbock and speak at these meetings.

BECOME INFORMED.

Learn more about the TTC. Sadly there is plenty of misinformation on both sides of the issue. Seek out differing opinions and draw your own conclusions. Recognize that TxDOT officials and contractors are working hard to convince you and others of the merits of their project.

Watch out for 'weasel words,' such as "probably, likely, should, shouldn't, most, think, believe, usually, promise, intend, expect, anticipate, faith, confident, feel, trust, view, assume, opinion, predict, thought, maybe, could, and future." Cut to the bottom line, always ask, "Does the law permit or prohibit TxDOT (or the concessionaire) to do that?"

Be cautious about the answers you get to your questions. Even the best-intentioned TxDOT representative (or CorridorWatch.org member) can only tell you what they know or believe. In some instances the information they share may be incorrect. We have witnessed erroneous and/or misleading answers to TTC questions at every level of Texas government. Most are uninformed; few are intentionally disingenuous.

MAKE YOUR COMMENTS.

Please stay and speak at the hearing!

Be civil, be firm, and be heard. You do not need to be an expert, environmentalist, or expert of any kind to put your opinion on the official record. One factor that NEPA requires that TxDOT consider is general public dissatisfaction with and objection to the project. If all you do is say I don't like it and I don't want it built, they must register your objection and take it into consideration.

Of course having specific objections is better. See some of ours at the end of this message. Write down your own notes and give your comments and objections quickly, your time will be limited. You do not need to give full and comprehensive reasons behind for your concern. Be brief. Better to raise several important issues than dwell too long on one or two. If you do get cut off write the rest of you comments down and submit them for the record.

This is a kind of voting. Just because the person before you said what you had planed to say doesn't mean that you don't need to say it again. You do! They are counting and if you want to be counted you MUST say it for yourself. Avoid saying, "I agree with the last speaker." When they write it down it doesn't tell anyone what you agreed with and your concern could get misunderstood or lost. I repeat that repeating is not a bad thing.

If you come to a hearing with a concern express it. Even if someone at that meeting has told you that your concern is unwarranted, don't take their word for that, get your concern on the official record. If you can't stay late enough to speak please write your comments on the form and leave them.

If you can't attend a hearing please send in your written comments.
You can send your comments in before or after the hearing by mail or via the Internet (keeptexasmoving.com). No matter which you prefer please make your comments by August 10, 2006. NOTE: TxDOT comment forms will ask which route selection you support. If you don't support any route don't leave it blank - check "I oppose" AND "No Action Alternative."

STAY ENGAGED.

This is an environmental process. The Governor and the Transportation Commission have already decided to build the TTC. That decision was reached without asking for your input. These environmental hearings will help decide where the TTC will be built. If you have concerns about building the TTC you must contact your elected state officials and let them know your opinions. Only the Governor and the State Legislature can change the future course of the TTC plan.Of course we would like a very strong record of objections to be built across the state during these public hearings. A record that will signal to our elected officials that this is indeed an unpopular project. That while we recognize that need roads, we do not need the TTC.

THE TRANS-TEXAS CORRIDOR IS AN ALL AROUND BAD IDEA FOR TEXAS.

Here are just a few reasons why:

It turns private land into State land. More than one-half million acres will become government property used not only for transportation but also as State owned rental property in direct competition with private development. It takes land well in excess of what is required to accomplish the goal of providing transportation and utilities. The width cannot be justified.

It's designed to generate revenue first and provide transportation second.

The Plan is based on uncertain assumptions. The plan is predicated on Texas population growth, not traffic projections. There is no demonstrated public demand for corridors that circumvent the metropolitian traffic generators.

It doesn't solve the urban congestion & traffic problem.

Adverse economic impact. It takes economic assets away from Texas communities by rerouting the flow of commercial trucks and limiting traveler access to local services, lodging and attractions.

Private Interests v. Public Interests. Puts private state partners revenue generation ahead of legitimate public interests.

The opportunity for informed public comment and full NEPA participation is seriously restricted by the state keeping project design details already outlined and defined by the concessionaire secret.

Loss of local property taxes. State owned TTC land will be removed from county and school district tax rolls. County and district taxpayers will shoulder the burden of making up the losses.

Local jurisditions, predominantly rural, will be burdened with the cost of providing infrastructure, governmental services and emergency services to a massive state owned project that may generate no local revenues while the state and their concessionaires reap the benefits of tolls, fees, and charges.

It creates a 'soft' terrorism target. This is not the time to put so many critical infrastructure elements in one place. A single act could impact transporation, communications, and utilities. As proposed the corridors are in the least equipted and prepared communities to respond to an act of terriorism or accidental incident. The threat to life, property and the environment are tremendous.

Dividing the State. Corridors will divide rural Texas making it more difficult to get from one place to another. The economic factors that impact the ability to provide crossings will limit access across the corridor. Longer travel distances will result in loss of community cohesion, increase travel cost (fuel), increased vehicle generated pollution, and increased emergency response and transport times.

Potential for tremendous liabilities created by secret Comprehensive Development Agreements. It is impossible to understand and explore the range of possible concerns and issues that such agreements may present when their content is secret.

High cost of tolls. Tolls are projected to equate to $3.85 per gallon of gasoline. At 15-cents per mile the increased cost to the travelling public is more than ten times that of the present gasoline tax.

Air pollution. Increased highway speeds (80 MPH) mean greater fuel consumption and more air pollution. Increased non-corridor travel distances also mean greater fuel consumption and more air pollution.

Source:===========================================CorridorWatch.org, Inc.Fayetteville, TX 78940-5468"Challenging the Wisdom of the Trans-Texas Corridor"

CorridorWatch.org, is an organization of concerned Texans and public officials who question the wisdom of the Trans-Texas Corridor. Our mission is to increase public awareness and understanding of the Trans-Texas Corridor and its impact on Texas and all Texans. For More Information Visit Us on the Internet: www.CorridorWatch.org

For comments on how the TTC will effect Wise County you can search this blog for the Trans Texas Corridor, and for additional local comments on the TTC, go to
Wise County Online Forum, General Discussions, subject: The Trans Texas Corridor . . .How Will it Effect You?
http://www.advancedbroadband.net/forum/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=415

2006-07-01T06:58:00.000-05:00

Sanflat Fire Department Fund Raiser Today

At the fire hall. Be there from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Auction, food, fun, and buy tickets for this year’s beautiful handmade quilt.

Fireworks are Banned in Wise County except for officially approved displays

There will be the annual officially approved firework display at Montford’s place this evening on the lake at sundown.

Wise County Democrats

Check out the new very user-friendly Wise County Democrats web site at http://www.wisedems.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1

While you are there, check out the Kool-O-Crat Blog and “What is a Kool-O-Crat?” By the way, I even found a link there for Democrats who just speak Spanish at
http://www.democrats.org/espanol.html

Kool-O-Crats bring to mind the issue of the polarization of our political parties. Did anyone watch ABC News 2020 last night? A Country Divided: Examining the State of Our Union. Read summary at
http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=2140483&page=1

“In interviews with political leaders, media analysts, and people in communities around the country, ABC News found what appears to be a new phenomenon: the polarization is feeding on itself. It's not just politicians, business or religious leaders, liberals or conservatives — or the media: It's each of us. And it's alarming.”

When a news organization openly admits that anger, violence, and polarization sells news, then you can expect that news media to focus on extremes. Are we to believe that most good liberals are overwhelmingly single and unchurched, or that most conservatives are only white members of evangelical churches???

Let’s hope that the Democrats and Republicans can do something positive to end this sickening stereotyping and polarization.

Talk Back, Get Help, or Share Your Opinions at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lakebridgeportnews/

Get Update Announce Only Alerts. Join to get notified of updates to this blog.
http://groups.google.com/group/Lake-Bridgeport-News

Contact Us
lakebridgeportnews@yahoo.com

2006-06-12T23:32:00.000-05:00

Wise County Under BURN BAN

Wise County Commissioners Monday approved a ban on fireworks and outdoor burning. The bans were necessitated by drought and adverse weather conditions. The fireworks ban is effect until further notice, and the burn ban is in effect for 90 days or until revoked by the commissioners or the Texas Forest Service. The fireworks ban does not include commercial operated shows, which must contact Cunningham a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the show.
Read more... http://www.wcmessenger.com/

2006-05-23T23:30:00.000-05:00

North Side Marina Press Release

PRESS RELEASE
May 17, 2006
For immediate release:

North Side Marina and Resort announces the opening of its new Ship’s Store, new lakefront log and cedar cabin rentals, expanded boat slips and boat rentals. Located on the north end of Lake Bridgeport in the Blockers Camp, the Marina also features a 24 hour pay at the pump gas dock.

North Side Marina and Resort is the only place on Lake Bridgeport offering combination cabin and boat rentals for people who want to get away from it all and experience Lake Bridgeport. For those with their own boat, you may also keep your boat at the Marina during your cabin rental.

The Marina gives visitors the opportunity to boat, fish, paddle boat, and relax all in one place. All of the cabins feature a particular theme: The Lonestar sports a Texas theme, the Lakeview is a lake theme with an all glass front overlooking the lake, the Angler has a fishing theme with a large wooden deck and the Captain’s Quarters sports a boating theme. All cabins have access to one of several deck and patio areas. It’s not uncommon to find a group enjoying the view while grilling one of the Colorado steaks now available from the Ship’s Store.

According to Marina owner, Jay Graver, “The response to the Marina has been overwhelming; we are expanding our boat rentals, boat slips and cabin availability to accommodate the large number of requests we are receiving.”

North Side has also become a dealer for the Park Model cabins which are also installed as rental cabins at North Side. The cabins are perfect for a weekend getaway, a hunting lease or a guest cottage at your ranch or lake house. There are several interior and lake front lots close to the Marina that are for sale by private owners. These cabins would be a perfect fit for some of the available lots.

The North Side website has become very popular and includes photo albums of Lake Bridgeport and all of the cabins.

Jay and co-owners/operators Jeanne and Alan Kennedy want to thank the community for their support over the last few months while the Ship’s store was being rebuilt. The original store was destroyed in a fire the early part of March. The fire was caused by workers who were expanding the original store. A temporary store has been in operation since the fire.

The Marina’s Ship’s Store is open for business Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays and Monday through Thursday. Cabin and boat rental requests can be made via the website or by calling the Marina directly.

Marina address: 180 Private Road 1735 Chico, TX
Marina phone: 940-644-5475
Marina website: http://www.northsidemarina.net/

For further information or inquiries, contact Jeanne Kennedy at 940-644-5475.

2006-05-22T22:11:00.000-05:00

Hazardous Injection Wells: New Texas Observer Article Focuses on Decatur and Chico

The article, which came out on Friday, is a must read for anyone living in Wise County – especially in Chico and here on Lake Bridgeport, where there are many wells.

Here are a few excerpts from "What Lies Beneath: The threat from oilfield waste injection wells" by Rusty Middleton, published May 19, 2006:

" . . .Their properties border a proposed injection well that could pump hundreds of thousands of gallons a day of oilfield waste into the ground. This waste, known in the industry as “production water,” is mostly oily saltwater used in drilling. But it also contains substances such as waste crude, sludge from storage pits and tank bottoms, used glycol, amine, and hydrogen sulfide scrubber liquid, to name only a few. There are at least 26 acknowledged chemicals in the waste, including such known carcinogens as benzene and one category unhelpfully listed as “other.”

. . .Suddenly Carson and her neighbors face property values cut by as much as half, according to the appraisers and local real estate agents they’ve checked with.

. . .But once the waste is underground, there are no barriers to prevent it from migrating into drinking wells, ground water, or in some cases, even bubbling back to the surface and killing vegetation."

" . . .There are more than 31,000 injections wells in Texas—the most of any state. " (Note: Wise County leads the state in abandoned wells slated for injection wells)

" . . .In 2005, near Chico, about 20 miles from Carson’s home, fluids from a commercial injection well came bubbling to the surface in other wells nearby.

“We were afraid something like this might happen,” says Chico Mayor James Robinson. Previously, city officials had written letters and gone to Railroad Commission meetings to plead for stronger regulations and monitoring to protect their water wells.

“You all need to be looking at this,” Chico Director of Public Works Ed Cowley told the Railroad Commission staff during one of the meetings. “They said it would never happen, and it happened twice.”Injection fluids came up from two abandoned wells and from one active oil well. All three were more than a quarter mile away from the source injection well.

. . .There are reports of people actually touching a match to their running faucet and lighting their water on fire.

. . .Texas is also one of the largest injectors in the nation of Class I hazardous waste. "

Source: The Texas Observer at http://www.texasobserver.org/showArticle.asp?ArticleID=2206

Anti-Injection Well Activism in Wise County

You can get quite an education from reading the anti-injection well postings on the Wise County Messenger forum under the category of News and Events at http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/

Leave Comments and/or Discuss (Anonymously if you like) on our Lake Bridgeport News group at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lakebridgeportnews/

To be alerted to regular and urgent updates please subscribe to our announce only list at: Lake-Bridgeport-News@googlegroups.com

Missing Dog Story Gains New NSP Land Owner’s Ire

Apparently just the mention of NSP and my references to the urbanization that has come to the Sandflat area was too much for one new land-owner in NSP who still lives in California. We’ve been told by this absentee owner that “anti NSP
sentiments need to stop.” To read or respond to the comments go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lakebridgeportnews/

2006-05-19T15:50:00.000-05:00

More Missing Dogs

The Judd’s Black female Rotweiller and it’s smaller companion Liver and White Bird Dog went missing Wednesday. They were not known to wander very far from home but could be anywhere around the former Boy Scout ranch land (now North Star Pointe development). If you have seen them, please contact Nell Judd at 644-2637.

It’s a sad fact that more and more family dogs are going missing now that urbanization has come to the Sandflat area. I guess it’s just the price we all have to pay for increased property values and higher taxes. Please do keep a close eye on your dogs!

2006-04-03T06:26:00.000-05:00

Trans Texas Corridor

Is The Fort Worth Star-Telegram Shying from the Truth about the Trans Texas Corridor?

Tarrant County Drivers are being warned that five major road work projects will keep Tarrant County traffic snarled for years though 2012!!!

According to yesterday’s Fort Worth Star Telegram . . .
“The short-term headaches of road work are necessary to prepare the regional road system for an influx of new residents over the next two decades, leaders say. North Texas’ population, about 5 million today, is expected to swell to 9 million by 2025.”

Of course, when it comes to road construction most people understand that if you build it – THEY WILL COME!!! Make no mistake about it. Some business interests in Fort Worth are praying that the population figures will swell. That’s what they are counting on with the TTC.

Oddly enough, the article appears to be trying to convince uniformed readers that the Trans Texas Corridor is just another Texas road project from the Metroplex to San Antonio.

"Builders are accustomed to boom years in Texas, and they go where the jobs take them.

That includes the planned construction of the Trans-Texas Corridor toll road from the Metroplex to San Antonio. An environmental study is ongoing for the privately funded project, which is expected to cost about $6 billion. Work is tentatively scheduled from 2007 to 2015. "

Who are they really trying to kid??? The TTC is the planned NAFTA route which will link the entire Americans into one seamless, and borderless, trade route!!!

Perhaps recent concerns about foreign companies controlling our ports and infrastructure, concerns about our too porous borders, and the massive influx of illegal immigrants is making the Star-Telegram just a little too shy about explaining the realities of the Trans Texas Corridor???

Read the entire article:
http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/news/14242708.htm

2006-04-03T06:20:00.000-05:00

Saturday is Lake Clean-up Day

If you would like to participate contact the Sandflat Fire Department.

Fire Response Time Better Than Reported

Last month we ran stories about the North Side Marina burning. According to some witnesses the fire department response took “maybe 45 minutes to an hour”. Foy Mitchell said that this information is incorrect. Mitchell told me yesterday that some folks at the scene attempted to put out the fire before even calling the Sandflat Fire Department. The actual response time was 18 minutes!!! Not bad!!! As Mitchell said, “You can’t respond until someone calls in the fire!”

2006-03-24T23:04:00.000-06:00

Wise County Burn Ban Lifted

Population Figures Released
"Rural unincorporated areas and smaller towns were up 3.1 percent. Boyd, Chico and Runaway Bay showed no growth in the NCTCOG report."

Source: http://www.wcmessenger.com/update/index.shtml

2006-03-13T10:41:00.000-06:00

Wise County Hazardous Cargo Route

If you missed yesterday’s Fort Worth Star Telegram’s infomercial for the Trans Texas Corridor, you missed seeing the maps of the proposed bypass route through Wise County. The proposed bypass route will “divert more freight trains around the Metroplex also could route potentially hazardous cargo outside heavily populated areas.” The two images above are: left (passenger route) and right: (cargo rail route).

The front page of the Weekly Review (section E) has a lovely graphic of the 1,200 feet wide corridor (not including the right of way). For some reason, the article failed to mention that the TTC will also take more than 9,000 square miles of right-of-way for the corridors from critical wetlands and vital rural lands.

Additionally, there are NTCOG maps of the freight rail, auto, and truck routes that will “bypass” the metroplex by taking “hazardous waste” on a wide loop right through Wise County. The maps show the routes trough counties (including Wise) that would be part of the bypass loop. http://www.nctcog.org/trans/goods/TTCmaps.pdf

According to the article, the RTC (North Texas COG's Regional Transportation Council), wants this huge “bypass” route as part of TTC-35 and has “suggested developing freight corridors -- for both truck and rail freight -- that could be part of the TTC-35 system and run in a general east-west direction south of Fort Worth and Dallas and then around the west edge of Tarrant County and east edge of Dallas County as they extended northward. These "bypass" corridors could become part of the huge outer loop that also would let passenger vehicles travel swiftly around Dallas, Fort Worth and other Metroplex cities.”

“The outer loop, as envisioned by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (COG), would run through the northern part of Denton and Collin counties, an eastern segment of Wise County, along the Tarrant County-Parker County border, through the northern half of Johnson and Ellis counties and around the eastern edge of Dallas County.”

The long article of almost 3,000 cheerleading words for the TTC briefly mentioned opposition twice. Skipping over the undefined “political opposition”, the article later stated that there might be “opposition by rural landowners or other factors”. Do Ya think? One of those “other factors” is, “the expense and difficulty of acquiring right of way”. But the article took a very wide bypass loop to avoid any mention of how that right of way will be obtained - by eminent domain and right of way takings.

Far, far from being unbiased reporting, this article is desperately trying to sell the TXDOT spin that the primary goal of TTC-35 is traffic congestion relief. “Its primary goal is to relieve congestion on packed Interstate 35 and in the big cities through which it passes (Fort Worth, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio).”

The primary goal of TTC-35 is not traffic congestion relief! The well-documented goal of the TTC is to (1) to generate revenue for private investors, and (2) to promote NAFTA trade routes from Mexico to Canada, which may eventually merge the economies of North and South America under a single governing body like the EU (European Union). But TXDOT and its cheerleaders don’t want folks to think about that.

Since the TTC-35 is intentionally designed to bypass every major city and many small towns, it’s hardly going to relieve traffic congestion in major cities. But the underlying intent of the TTC is evident in the notion that “If you build it, they will come.” TXDOT is pushing the notion that the metroplex is going to increase by 80% by 2030, while hedging its bets that it might not grow that fast. But heaven forbid if it doesn’t grow that fast, so TXDOT thinks, "Let’s build it and surely they will come!!!"

The article tries hard to obfuscate the facts. But an admission, separate from the cost of building TTC-35, is the fact that “Approximately $100 billion will be needed to effectively address Metroplex transportation needs and keep congestion from getting worse by 2025, the RTC has estimated.” Obviously, then, it isn’t the TTC-35 that’s going to take care of that problem, now is it?

For those in the outlying counties where the bypass will cut a wide swath, the notion of easy travel might not be that easy to swallow. It’s going to cost and cost big time. “Motorists can expect to pay sizable tolls on the new, less clogged, higher-speed route.”

The article did point out one reason why tolls are so attractive to those who don’t know how to do the math. “ . . . skittish state elected officials continue to believe that raising the modest state gasoline tax of 20 cents per gallon is political suicide.”

Later in the article it was pointed out that, “Many local elected officials would like a more reliable, ongoing funding source such as a dedicated sales tax to finance expanded regional rail transit. But some statewide elected officials and legislators have balked at supporting legislation to enable that.”

Note: There’s a good dialogue on the Wise County Messenger’s forum called More Gasoline Taxes or Tolls? You Do the Math.
http://www.wcmessenger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=137

According to the S-T article, there will be a new report that will narrow the “path to a 10-mile-wide "study corridor" that would be discussed beginning in May in more than 50 public hearings in North Central Texas and other areas along the suggested corridor route.” Let’s hope that Wise County Officials will become educated on all sides of this issue and that they will participate.

In the mean time you can write letters to the editor of our local newspapers.

You can write to your legislators. Find your representatives at http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/fyi/fyi.htm

You can make your public comments to TXDOT by going to Go to: http://www.keeptexasmoving.com/comments_questions/ttc35_comments.aspx

To read the entire Star-Telegram article go to: http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/news/opinion/14074927.htm