Genesis 6

The Flood

11The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.

 12And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.

 13And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

 14Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch.

 15And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.

 16A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.

 17And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die.

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Even More Rain

Not quite ready for an ark yet but my canoe is ready. I had another three inches or so and Tex Wright reports, "... 3.2 for the day and 9.05 for the week.."

June 28, 2007

State Working to Improve Highway Pavement Conditions

AUSTIN - Texas highways are showing the wear and tear of more traffic and it will take an increase in maintenance funding to keep pavement conditions from deteriorating further, according to state transportation officials.

Officials with the Texas Department of Transportation today said billions of dollars may need to be transferred from new construction to routine maintenance to take care of the nearly 80,000-mile state highway system.

“Just to keep our pavement conditions at the current level, it would take an additional $6.3 billion between now and 2012,” said Amadeo Saenz, TxDOT assistant executive director for engineering operations.

“Redirecting our limited resources is never an easy decision,” Saenz continued. “But preventive maintenance is vital for the condition of our highways and the safety of their users. Spending a single dollar on preventive highway maintenance saves at least four times that amount over the life of a road.”

TxDOT evaluates statewide highway conditions each year, measuring the ride quality a pavement provides as well as the ruts, potholes and cracks in the road surface. After several years of improved pavement conditions, reports indicated a decline in 2006.

Several factors are contributing to deteriorating conditions: soaring inflation diminishes the purchasing power of highway maintenance funds, increasing traffic wears down highways; and a prolonged drought that began in 2005 has caused pavements to crack, shift and settle. Since 2002, highway construction costs have increased by 73 percent, an inflation rate far higher than that for consumer goods.

Saenz said the situation points to the need for balancing two important goals: maintaining the existing highway system and reducing traffic congestion.

“Finding just the right balance is tough,” Saenz said. “Texans deserve both a well-maintained highway system and the ability to get where they want to go in a timely manner.”

TxDOT staff reported on pavement conditions at a meeting of the Texas Transportation Commission in Austin. The item was for discussion only and no action was taken by the commission; however, the issue may come up again at the commission’s July 26 meeting in Sugar Land.

June 28, 2007

Extension Provides Free Information on Flood Preparation, Recovery

Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-467-6575,paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Janie Harris, 979-847-8865,jharris@ag.tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION – Texas Cooperative Extension has free information available on what to do before, during and after a flood, said an Extension expert.

In addition to disaster-related publications, Extension has a variety of information and tips related to preparing for and recovering from flooding available through the Internet, said Janie Harris, Extension housing and environment specialist.

"With flooding, there are a number of things you can do to minimize damage to your home or business, protect your family's health and restore your property after the flood," she said. "Extension provides useful, objective information that we hope will help keep property safe."

The Texas Extension Disaster Education Network site, http://texashelp.tamu.edu, has access to information on flood preparation, cleaning flood-damaged homes, emergency food and water supplies, the national flood insurance program and post-flooding safety precautions. Information on floods may be found under the "Hot Topics" section of the site's home page.

The site also contains a link to the free "Preparing for the Unexpected" booklet, which provides details on what steps to take in advance of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. The booklet is also available in Spanish.

More information on flooding preparation and recovery can be found under the "Disasters & Emergencies" link at the Extension Bookstore, http://tcebookstore.org. This site contains free printable materials on topics including flood recovery safety tips, controlling mold, basic first aid, caring for important papers and post-disaster considerations for older adults.

"The first thing people affected by a flood need to do is emphasize safety when returning to their home or business," Harris said. "They need to be aware of possible structural or electrical damage and possible damage to gas lines. They also need to be aware of possible contamination from flood water and what they can do to reduce that risk."

The potential for mold is another consideration, she added. And procedures to minimize mold can be found in Extension materials information and through the Environmental Protection Agency link at the disaster education Web site.

Personnel in many Extension's county offices have been trained in disaster preparedness. For more information, contact the Extension office in your county.

Tour flood along Texas Colorado River and the Highland Lakes

For Immediate Release: June 28, 2007

Click links to see aerial footage taken along the lower Colorado River as floodwaters were released downstream. Videos require Windows Media Player. Download free software.

Buchanan Dam	Floodwaters go over spillway at Starcke Dam
Wirtz Dam	Boat docks stranded, floodwaters threaten home
Wirtz Dam	Mansfield Dam
The view from atop of Starcke Dam as floodwaters rush through.	Tom Miller Dam

LEARN MORE: Interactive graphic -- how LCRA's system of dams work.

 

June 25, 2007

Marina Owner Offers Iraq Vets Free Fishing on Lake Fork

ATHENS, Texas—Joe Axton spent nine years in the U.S. Marine Corps, and he’s heard stories of Vietnam veterans being treated poorly on their return home. Now the owner of Axton’s Bass City on Lake Fork, Axton is doing what he can to see the same thing does not happen to military service men and women returning from duty in Iraq.

Axton is offering free accommodations and meals for two days at his motel and marina on Lake Fork for military personnel returning from Iraq and their families. In addition, he will secure the services of a fishing guide for the service member. He will even arrange to pick the party up at DFW Airport and return them after their stay—all at no charge.

Lake Fork is generally regarded as the Mecca of bass fishing, and a guided trip on the lake typically costs $300 a day.

“I have several guides who have already committed to taking the soldiers fishing at no charge, and a number of anglers who fish the lake regularly have also volunteered their services,” Axton said. “Guides usually have openings throughout the year, and we will work with the soldiers and guides to book trips whenever they have dates available.

“A lot of people give lip service to supporting the troops, and I felt it was time to do something,” Axton added. “My family has always been very patriotic, and we are just carrying on the tradition. I think it will be good for the veterans, and doing it makes me feel good.”

Axton said he wants as many military personnel as possible to take advantage of his offer, which is limited only by the availability of rooms and guides. “The offer is good as long as they are over there getting shot at,” he said.

Axton can be contacted at (877) 525-4698 or axtons@axtonsbasscity.com.

More Weather

Well the storm on Tuesday knocked out the network card on my computer... the electricity going on and off as I was trying to work on the news probably didn't help much... I guess I am lucky the computer still works at all. My battery backup probably helped that.

I poured out another inch or so of rain from the Tuesday night and Wednesday morning showers for between five and six inches for the week.

Tex Wright reports another 1.1 inches and still sprinkling Wednesday morning for a total of 5.85 for the week North of the tracks or is that quacks? He said something about ducks, duck farmers, and counting animals two by two... come to think of it he would be a good Noah!

I think that we can attribute the rains to the release of the movie "Evan Almighty" this last week which is about a modern day Noah's Ark and the followup to "Bruce Almighty".

Jun. 27, 2007

Texas Responds to Storms Across the State

AUSTIN – Governor Rick Perry has activated Texas Military Forces and deployed state resources to respond to major weather events stretching from the Oklahoma border to the Rio Grande Valley. The governor gave approval for pre-positioning of state resources last week in anticipation of major weather events including torrential rains and flooding throughout the entire state. These areas include Alliance Airport, Austin, Denton, Eastland, Gainesville, San Antonio, Sherman, Waco and Weslaco. The state is providing search and rescue assistance to these communities as requested by local officials.

“The state stands ready to help these communities respond to emergencies and recover from the heavy storms and rains that have saturated the area,” said Perry. “We will continue to work with local officials to ensure the safety of all central Texas residents.”

Heavy rainfall and severe storms during the past month have left much of central, north and east Texas vulnerable to sustained flooding. Threatening storms are expected to produce additional rain during the next several days in already saturated areas, posing continued danger of flash flooding.

In anticipation of these storms, 150 Texas Military Forces soldiers and 54 high-profile vehicles were deployed to assist with response efforts concerning heavy flooding and other emergencies. Eight swift water rescue teams and five helicopters have also been activated to assist where needed. Additionally, Regional Incident Management Teams from the Texas Forest Service, highway patrol units and air assets from the Texas Department of Public Safety, game wardens from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, response teams from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and 50 additional high-profile vehicles stand ready for deployment. Voluntary organizations are also prepared to help in the event they are needed to provide mass care support for residents.

“I urge Texans to heed the warnings of their local leaders, and take all possible precautions to stay out of dangerous situations as this severe weather continues,” Perry said.

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Attorney General Abbott Urges Central Texas Residents to Beware of Scams in Aftermath of Flooding

Contractor, charity ploys are common in the aftermath of a storm

AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today warned Central Texas residents to be wary of fraudulent attempts to bilk flood victims in the aftermath of recent storms.

“Texans will not tolerate anyone who attempts to illegally profit from a disaster,” Attorney General Abbott said. “The Office of the Attorney General will aggressively prosecute anyone who attempts to exploit consumers in the wake of these storms. We will keep Central Texas residents in our thoughts and prayers as we vigorously monitor this situation.”

As emergency response officials begin to gather reports of damaged homes and structures, Attorney General Abbott urged homeowners and businesses to exercise caution when seeking contractors to help with repairs. Abbott offered the following consumer tips:

Home repairs. Be wary of contractors who show up unexpectedly and offer roofing, drywall and other major repairs, particularly those who are not from the local community and low-ball their offer saying that they have material left over from a previous job and insist on an advance cash payment.

Obtain bids in writing from several contractors first and review each one carefully. Ask contractors if they are covered through insurance or a bond, particularly when considering them for a large project. Check with the city to make sure electricians and plumbers have the necessary license and have obtained the required permits.

Get all terms in writing and do not sign a contract without a full understanding of its contents. Do not sign a contract that has spaces left blank. Pay the contractor only as the work progresses, and do not sign a completion certificate until all repairs are done properly. If the work is substantial, consider having an independent inspector look it over before settling the bill with the contractor.

Before hiring a contractor, contact the Better Business Bureau and the Office of the Attorney General to determine whether consumers have filed complaints against the contractor in the past.

Charity scams. Be wary of telemarketers, solicitations by mail, or those who show up unexpectedly urging an immediate donation to an unfamiliar charity which supposedly will aid victims of the disaster. A legitimate charity will offer detailed information in writing about how donated money will be used and will provide a reasonable timeframe within which the donor can make an informed decision.

Be particularly suspicious of solicitors who are long on emotion but short on detail about how donations will be put to use. Always make the donation using a check or money order made out to the charity, and be wary of organizations with names that are very similar but not identical to those of a recognized charity.

Additional information to help consumers protect themselves against these and other disaster-related scams is available on the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us, or by calling (800) 252-8011. Information is available in English and Spanish.

June 27, 2007

Texas Crop, Weather Report

Writer: Kay Ledbetter, 806-677-5608,skledbetter@ag.tamu.edu

Audio MP3(2.0 Mb) Audio Script

COLLEGE STATION – "Wet" is still the primary story across Texas. And wheat harvests are having problems due to the abundance of moisture, according to Texas Cooperative Extension officials.

Harvest delays are being reported in several areas, but the Panhandle is seeing more than just delays, said Dr. Carl Patrick, Extension entomologist in Amarillo. Some wheat head armyworm damage is showing up when producers take their truckloads of wheat to the elevators.

"It has to be tied to the weather, the kind of spring we had," Patrick said. "Wet conditions, thick wheat and mild temperatures combined to allow it to survive in greater numbers than we typically see."

The wheat head armyworm is one of many insects seen every year, he said, but generally they don't cause significant damage.

"I knew it was out there this year, but until the damage started showing up at the elevator, we didn't know how big the problem was," he said. "Usually the insect-damaged kernels are not high enough to cause them to dock the price, but this year is running four or fives higher than in the past and elevators are discounting the wheat."

With the damage already done, producers can justify little in the way of treatment, Patrick said. Plus, any chemical treatment would require a pre-harvest interval and delay harvest for several weeks. At this time of the year, a timely harvest is important, he said.

The following condition reports are from Extension officials:

PANHANDLE: Temperatures were slightly above average much of the week. Some rain occurred over the area with amounts varying from three-quarters to 1 inch and isolated reports of 2 to 3 inches. Soil moisture is rated very short to surplus with most areas reporting short to adequate. Corn is rated fair to excellent with most areas reporting good. Corn in the southern portion of the area has some southwestern corn borer activity. Cotton is rated fair to excellent with most areas reporting fair. Warmer temperatures this week have improved the crop's appearance. Thrips continue to be a problem in late-planted fields. Peanuts are rated fair to good with no pest problems reported. Sorghum planting continues. Stands are rated mostly fair to good. Soybeans are rated fair to good with no pest problems reported. Wheat harvest is progressing with only temporary halts because of occasional rain. Insect-damaged kernels from wheat head armyworm continue to be reported. Range conditions are rated mostly good. Cattle are in excellent condition. Horn flies continue to pester animals.

SOUTH PLAINS: Weather has been hot with temperatures in the 90's F, which has allowed area cotton fields to make good progress. Cotton is in fair to good condition. Weed pressure is heavy and some Roundup applications were made. Wheat harvest is continuing and yields have been excellent. Corn is in good condition and has gained rapid growth this week. Sorghum fields look excellent. Peanuts are in good condition. Pumpkins are growing well and warmer temperatures are promoting rapid growth. Pastures and ranges are in good to excellent condition with an abundance of grass and weeds. Cattle are in good to excellent condition.

ROLLING PLAINS: Scattered thunderstorms and late evening showers were reported all across the region. Some have produced strong winds. Some field work was stopped for conditions to dry out. Early planted cotton looks good; some cotton is still being planted. Wheat and oat harvest for grain has also been slowed by wet fields. Good quality alfalfa hay has been reduced due to showers on freshly cut fields. Pastures look great, stock tanks are mostly full and livestock are in good to excellent condition. Weeds have increased so cotton farmers will be spraying soon. The peach and pecan crops look good. Peach growers are battling brown rot disease due to wet humid conditions. Truck crops/produce is abundant.

NORTH: Soil moisture ranges from adequate to surplus. Heavy rains caused localized flooding and washed out roads, fences, houses and barns. The last rains damaged the wheat crop; harvest for both wheat and oats has stopped. The rain has caused some sprouting. Winter wheat is in fair to good condition, and 20 percent to 50 percent has been harvested. Corn, grain sorghum and soybeans look good. Corn is silked and in good to excellent condition. Soybeans are in good condition. Sorghum is about 50 percent headed and in good condition. Oats are about 20 percent to 50 percent harvested. Rice is in good condition. Cotton is in good condition. Warm humid days and nights have provided excellent growing conditions for pastures and crops. Some hay meadows have not had a first cutting due to rain, but that which has been harvested has had impressive yields. Winter annual hays not yet harvested are lost. Although about 30 percent of the summer grasses were lost to the drought, the rest should recover with the rainfall. Livestock body conditions are very good and the market is very active. Sweet potato farmers are reporting the excess moisture is hurting their crops. Range and pasture conditions are good to excellent.

EAST: Watermelon, peach and blueberry harvests continue, and there is a good crop of berries this year. Peas are ready to be picked, along with tomatoes, squash and other vegetables. Pastures are in good condition. Producers are planting grass. Cattle prices are steady to $2 per hundredweight higher. Demand is strong on quality calves and cows. Heavy thunderstorms over the weekend brought 4-5 inches of rain to the region. Some localized flooding occurred, but no damage was reported. Temperatures are in the 90's F. Hay harvest is being hampered by wet conditions. Pastures are improving with moisture.

FAR WEST: Soil moisture ranges from very short to surplus, and crops and pastures are in very poor to excellent condition. Corn and sorghum are in good to excellent condition. Cotton is in very poor to excellent condition. Winter wheat is in very poor to good condition. Widely scattered storms were reported across the region dropping anywhere from a quarter inch to 2.5 inches of rain. Hudspeth County reported some heavy storms with hail and high winds that damaged crops. Cantaloupes and watermelons should be ready for harvest in two or three weeks.

WEST CENTRAL: A cool front brought in continued rainfall in many areas this week. Wheat harvest continues where fields are dry enough. Wheat and oat harvest is near completion in most areas. Cutting and baling hay continues. The hay crop is excellent this year, with improved pastures and hay-grazer patches recording excellent yields. Cotton planting is ending. Most cotton started well with very good moisture conditions. Range and pastures remain in good condition due to above-average rainfall. Livestock are in good to excellent condition. Internal parasites are a major problem for sheep and goats. Fly problems are extreme with all livestock.

CENTRAL: Due to substantial rainfall, some wheat and oat acreage could not be harvested. Cloudy, wet weather has triggered disease development in the landscape and crops. Hay producers are trying to get hay baled between rain storms; many are behind schedule. Cattle are in good condition. Flies and mosquitoes continue to be a problem.

SOUTHEAST: Recent rains have greatly improved pastures. Tanks and ponds are at full levels for the first time in years. Conditions are excellent at this time in Grimes County. A few fields have been cut this week or will be cutting this weekend. Most of the fields are 20 to 30 days past the opportune time.

SOUTHWEST: The region received over 2 inches of much-needed rain last week, bringing year-to-date cumulative rainfall to about 120 percent of the long-term average for the year. Agriculture production outlook appears good, but evidence of the 23-month severe drought remains. Corn, sorghum, cotton, peanuts, watermelons and cantaloupes are progressing well. Corn and sorghum have matured and are starting to dry down. The harvest should start in about two to three weeks. Forage availability is above average, but better quality grasses have not fully recovered after the severe drought. Wheat, oats, beets (for processing), green beans and squash harvests continue. Onion harvest is complete, but yields were disappointing.

COASTAL BEND: Rain, along with warm and humid conditions, benefitted some areas but came too late for others. Some corn is showing signs of leaching in the leaves. The first grain sorghum was harvested in the region. Sorghum harvest will increase if weather permits. Cattle look good, with hay still being cut and baled where producers are able to get into fields.

SOUTH: Conditions have been hot and humid throughout most of the region. The mid-region reported adequate soil moisture conditions, while the eastern and western parts reported short to very short. Grain sorghum harvest is picking up under the hot, dry weather. About 90 percent of the cotton crop has matured. Citrus and sugarcane are being irrigated. Range and pasture conditions are fair.

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Child Predators Caught by Cyber Crimes Unit Receive 10-Year Federal Prison Sentences

Former Beaumont firefighter, teacher’s aide sentenced for sexually soliciting minors online

BEAUMONT -- A former Beaumont firefighter and a former teacher’s aide arrested by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit during an undercover sweep have each been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for child sex crimes.

Rob Roy Robinson, 53, of Beaumont, was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone to 10 years in federal prison on one count of coercion and enticement. Randy Hutto, 26, of Spurger, was sentenced June 12 to a 10-year term on the same federal charge. Upon release, both defendants must register as sex offenders and are prohibited from having unsupervised contact with children. Assistant Attorney General Sarah Wannarka prosecuted both cases in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

“The tough sentences handed down by Judge Marcia Crone send a strong message: Texans will not tolerate criminals who prey upon our children,” Attorney General Abbott said. “The Cyber Crimes Unit will continue to protect young Texans by aggressively cracking down on sex predators. We are very grateful to U.S. Attorney John Ratcliffe and the Beaumont Police Department for their commitment to Texas children.”

Cyber Crimes Unit investigators arrested Robinson in October 2006 after he solicited sex online from someone he believed was a 13-year-old girl. When he arrived for the meeting, Robinson discovered that the “girl” was actually an undercover Cyber Crimes investigator. He was indicted by a Beaumont federal grand jury in November 2006 and entered a guilty plea in February.

Hutto was also arrested by Cyber Crimes Unit investigators after he drove nearly 50 miles from Spurger to Beaumont to meet and sexually assault someone he believed to be a 13-year-old boy. At the time of his arrest, Hutto indicated he was employed as a special education teacher’s aide at area middle schools. Hutto was also indicted in November 2006 and pleaded guilty Feb. 20.

The cases are part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a national initiative announced by U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales earlier this year. PSC encourages the use of multi-jurisdictional task forces to investigate and prosecute the sexual exploitation of children over the Internet. In addition to tough law enforcement, PSC encourages community-wide campaigns to assist victims and to educate parents, other adults, and children about Internet safety. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

In Texas, investigative assistance in these matters is provided by the Texas Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC). In May 2006, Attorney General Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit was awarded a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention to establish an ICAC Task Force. The Texas Attorney General’s ICAC Task Force is one of almost 50 federally funded task forces across the country dedicated to this project.

Attorney General Abbott has earned a national reputation for aggressively arresting and prosecuting child predators. In 2003, he launched the Cyber Crimes Unit, which targets online predators by assuming the identities of young teenagers in Internet chat rooms, and the Fugitive Unit, which locates convicted child sex offenders who have violated the terms of their parole and could be stalking children. Attorney General Abbott’s initiative has netted more than 600 arrests of such offenders. His office also has obtained convictions against more than 60 men on child pornography charges.

For more information, contact the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or visit the Attorney General's Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us.

Jun. 27, 2007

Gov. Perry Announces $1.3 Million in Emerging Tech Fund Awards

Grants to Help Commercialize Innovations, Enhance Texas' Competitiveness

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced more than $1.3 million in awards to two emerging technology companies, Resonant Sensors Incorporated of Arlington and PrincipleSoft, Inc., of Plano, to help bring their products to market. The grants are awarded through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF), a $200 million initiative created by the Texas Legislature in 2005 at the governor’s request and re-authorized this year.

“Technological innovation is the lifeblood of today’s economy. Through these grants, we are elevating our state’s emerging technology sector to make Texas a strong competitor in the global marketplace,” Perry said. “Continued investment in emerging technology creates more jobs and generates substantial capital investments, diversifying and enriching our economy.”

TETF awards will benefit:

• Resonant Sensors Incorporated of Arlington: $600,000 for further development and commercialization of its new class of sensors for use in the production of biomedical compounds and drugs. These revolutionary sensors, based on patented technology licensed from the University of Texas at Arlington, will allow researchers to rapidly and accurately evaluate the performance of experimental new drug compounds. Commercial applications are projected to be highly efficient in the use of drug evaluation systems for biomedical research laboratories and the pharmaceutical industry, and in later applications, such as sensors used for monitoring environment pollutants. This award will leverage an additional $100,000 received from the NSF Small Business Innovative Research program to accelerate the commercialization of this technology.
• PrincipleSoft, Inc. of Plano: $750,000 for further development of multiple layer overlay modulation that will revolutionize lives by enabling a high speed connection directly to the key people and information an individual is targeting. One early commercial application of this technology will include a much greater ability to deliver real-time video to a variety of wireless devices. The adoption of the Internet, and the growing dependence on computers, mobile phones, PDAs and other electronic technology has led to an ever-increasing demand of broadband communications. PrincipleSoft offers a technology that unleashes the bandwidth using advanced communications algorithms providing a magnitude of higher spectral efficiency.

A 17-member advisory committee of high-tech leaders, entrepreneurs and research experts reviews potential TETF projects and recommends funding for projects to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House.

The 2008-2009 state budget recently passed by the legislature and signed by the governor includes $75 million in new general revenue for the TETF. In addition to previous TETF balances and interest, more than $165 million will be available for the 2008-09 biennium.

To date, the TETF has allocated $89.1 million in grant funds to Texas companies and universities.

The TETF program has three main areas of investment:

• Increasing research collaboration between public and private sector entities through new Regional Centers of Innovation and Commercialization where the seeds of an idea can take root in a university lab and eventually grow into a new product marketed by a new or expanding firm;
• Matching research grants provided by both federal and private sponsors to help innovators acquire the capital they need to bring their idea to life; and
• Attracting more top-notch research teams from other universities around the nation that will help put Texas universities on the cutting edge of technology research and development.

For more information on the TETF, visit www.emergingtechfund.com

June 26, 2007

Texas Cooperative Extension Hires Three New Agents for Four Counties

Writer: Steve Byrns, 325-653-4576,s-byrns@tamu.edu
Contact: Scott Durham, 325-653-4576,s-durham@tamu.edu

COLEMAN – Texas Cooperative Extension has named three new agents for four West Texas counties, according to Scott Durham, Extension administrator at San Angelo.

Kristy Powell has been named family and consumer sciences agent for Mason and Menard counties. Luther Dunlap will be county agent for agriculture and natural resources for Coleman County. Ross Benson will be county agent for Irion County.

"Kristy is well equipped to handle the workload these two key counties will offer," Durham said. "She previously worked for Extension as a family and consumer sciences agent for three other Texas counties, so she is well aware of the unique work climate she is entering. We know she will make strong contributions to the active Extension programs in these two counties."

Powell, who began her duties June 25, earned a master of science degree in family and consumer sciences education and a bachelor of science degree in education from New Mexico State University at Las Cruces.

Along with her experience in Extension work, Powell was a first-grade teacher for the Hartley Independent School District.

"Luther (Dunlap) has a rich background in 4-H and FFA which will be a great asset to Coleman County and the district as well," Durham said.

Dunlap, who will begin on July 1, is a graduate of New Mexico State University at Las Cruces where he earned a bachelor of science degree in animal science. While a student at the university, Dunlap was active in the Block and Bridle Club and served as the organization's vice presidents of livestock judging and activities. He was also a member of the horsemen's association and served as the club's horse sale committee chairman.

Dunlap started in the 4-H youth program when he was 9 years old and continued until he was 19. He held several county, district and state positions, and showed sheep, pigs and horses in both 4-H and FFA.

"Ross (Benson) has a strong background in working with young people gleaned from his years as an elementary school teacher. He's also a past member of 4-H, and was very active in the program while growing up. I'm sure he will be a real asset to the county and the entire district," Durham said..

Benson, who will begin on July 1, is a 1995 graduate of Angelo State University where he earned a bachelor of science degree in animal science. While at the university, he was on the school's national champion wool team and was a member of the Block and Bridle Club.

He has been a teacher at Belaire Elementary School in San Angelo since 2001. Prior to teaching, he was a district salesman for PM Ag Products and worked in sales and marketing for Merrick's Inc.

For more information call Durham at 325-653-4576.

Jun. 26, 2007

'Big Four' Governors Join Forces to Advocate for Farm Bill Priorities

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer today sent a joint letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate Agriculture Committees to advocate the priorities of the ‘Big Four’ states for the 2007 Farm Bill.

In their letter, the governors called on lawmakers to address important issues facing the farming community, asking for additional funding and resources to be dedicated to six key priorities. These priorities include:

• Specialty crop programs
• Tools to combat invasive species and threats to plants and animals
• Expansion of crop insurance coverage and safety net programs
• Support for conservation programs and initiatives
• Maintenance of the USDA Food Stamp Program and additional promotion of health diet programs
• Expansion of the cultivation of organic products

Texas, California, Florida and New York combined have 174 million acres of cropland with products valued at more than $65 billion. The four states together are home to 97.4 million individuals, representing 34.2 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product and employing more than 46.1 million Americans.

A copy of the letter is attached.

---

June 26, 2007

The Honorable Tom Harkin
Chairman
Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

The Honorable Collin Peterson
Chairman
Committee on Agriculture
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

The Honorable Saxby Chambliss
Ranking Member
Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

The Honorable Bob Goodlatte
Ranking Member
Committee on Agriculture
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chairman Harkin, Senator Chambliss, Chairman Peterson, and Representative Goodlatte:

A strong 21st century Farm Bill is a targeted investment that enhances the health of our communities and environment and provides the foundation to supply our nation with a safe, dependable, and affordable food supply. In addition to increasing the strength and security of our farming and ranching communities, the farm bill provides nutrition dollars for our schools and communities, research dollars for our universities, and solutions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating air and water pollution for our residents. Every American is a stakeholder in the farm bill.

As Governors of the country’s four most populous states, we represent more than 174 million acres of cropland, with products valued at more than $65 billion. While our states are very diverse, we also have much in common. We believe in the vision of healthy people, a clean environment, and a robust agricultural sector. As your committees begin consideration of the 2007 Farm Bill, we would like you to consider several issues of importance to our states.

In addition to these six priorities, our states have many other issues of importance that will be provided to the Committees through our respective congressional delegations.

• Specialty Crops: Fruits, vegetables, nuts, horticulture and other specialty products now make up almost 50 percent of the farm gate receipts in this country. Our four states alone contribute over half of this amount and their production is an important component of the agricultural sector in our states. This farm bill should provide increased funding and program flexibility for specialty crop programs, including research and development of production, harvesting, and handling techniques, and open up USDA’s commodity, conservation, and disaster assistance programs, in which specialty crop producers have traditionally had limited opportunity to participate. We agree that it is necessary to not only increase funding but also provide a permanent allocation for the Specialty Crop Block Grant that was authorized in the Specialty Crop Competitiveness Act of 2004. This grant has been used with great success by states to provide a wide array of programs that assist our specialty crop producers to maintain and enhance their competitiveness in the market.
• Invasive Species: Whether it is Citrus Canker in Florida, the Asian Longhorned Beetle in New York, the Glassy Winged Sharpshooter in California, or the Mexican fruit fly in Texas, invasive species are a serious problem and require a significant commitment of resources to address. It is essential that the Farm Bill include strong language that provides critical resources in a timely fashion to vigorously respond to and eradicate these threats. Full funding for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is necessary. It is important that, while maintaining funding levels for pest management, additional dollars also be provided for prevention efforts on ports and other pathways of entry. As border states, we all have increased susceptibility through our ports and borders.
• Crop Insurance: Increasing the amount of risk eligible for crop insurance coverage and expanding the safety net programs for all farmers, including crop specific revenue insurance, should be part of a final Farm Bill. Also, a structure should be established for providing assistance beyond crop insurance after natural disasters. There is a tangible need for a long-term solution to the ad hoc nature of current disaster assistance.
• Conservation: The farm bill must reauthorize and expand funding for all conservation programs as a strategic investment in our nation’s agricultural infrastructure. By increasing outreach and technical assistance funding, states can more effectively deliver and target conservation programs to those farmers who want to participate in the most cost effective environmental programs. By bolstering partnerships with cooperating organizations and agencies, we enhance the availability of technical assistance. Conserving farmland, rangelands, and private forests benefits all Americans.
• Nutrition: The Farm Bill must maintain the highly successful Food Stamp Program (FSP), including Food Stamp Nutrition Education, as part of efforts to promote healthy eating and help prevent obesity. Despite recent national increases in participation and significant reductions in state error rates, challenges within the FSP remain. There are simply too many households eligible for benefits that do not participate, particularly among the working poor. States need the flexibility to develop and implement systems that enable more eligible individuals to receive food stamps. It is also essential that the Farm Bill support healthy diets, farmers market programs, better nutrition and greater access to fruits and vegetables. Expanding initiatives such as the successful Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program will promote achievement of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and help to realize our mutual goal to improve nutrition for low-income families and communities for generations to come.
• Organic Agriculture: We support provisions that expand support for organic products, allowing our farmers to access this growing and lucrative market. To meet this increasing consumer demand for organic food, we should support farmers who have decided to use organic techniques, especially those who are transitioning to organic agriculture.

We understand that legislation of this scope and complexity involves a long and arduous process to realize final completion. We hope that as the legislative process continues, we can be a resource for you and your staffs as you consider these and many other important issues. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can provide more information.

Sincerely,

Governor Eliot Spitzer

Governor Charlie Crist

Governor Rick Perry

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

cc: New York Congressional Delegation

Florida Congressional Delegation

Texas Congressional Delegation

California Congressional Delegation

June 25, 2007

Stephen C. Helbing Sr. ’48 Scholarship Established at Texas A&M’s Agricultural Economics Department

Contacts: Blair Fannin, 979-845-2259,b-fannin@tamu.edu
Jody Ford, 979-847-9314,j-ford@tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION – Stephen C. Helbing Sr.'s family gave him a surprise for his recent 80th birthday: An $80,000 scholarship endowment in his honor.

The Stephen C. Helbing Sr. '48 scholarship has been established at Texas A&M University's department of agricultural economics. The gift, funded through the Texas A&M Foundation, will provide one or more scholarships to fulltime students pursuing a degree from the agricultural economics department in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Stephen C. Helbing Jr., Scott C. Helbing, Ross C. Helbing and Robert L. Helbing gave the endowment.

"I believe (Texas A&M's department of) agricultural economics has played, and can continue to play, a vital role in Texas," said Stephen C. Helbing Sr. "I hope this scholarship will help attract the brightest students at A&M to consider this major and the many opportunities a degree in agricultural economics will afford them after graduation."

He said he hopes "deserving students will receive the support and opportunity to start a successful career of their choice."

"I also hope the contribution will help them understand the obligation they will have one day to lead, support and inspire the next generation," Helbing said.

"We are always emboldened by the generosity of our partners such as the Helbing family when they reach out and touch our students and help to perpetuate our pursuit of excellence and leadership training," said Dr. Fred Boadu, assistant department head for undergraduate affairs in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Texas A&M. Helbing was a 1948 graduate of Texas A&M and received a bachelor of science degree in agricultural economics. He was a New Mexico state representative from 1965-1970 and a republican leader in the New Mexico House from 1967-1970. Helbing also served in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1946.

A successful father, entrepreneur, landman, rancher, community leader, Presbyterian elder, friend and Aggie, Helbing has many professional career highlights. Those include serving as president of the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association (1967); President of the New Mexico Landmen's Association (1968); Salvation Army Board of Directors Roswell, NM, membership in the Roswell New Mexico Rotary Club and Midland Exchange Club Board of Directors Hospice of Midland.

Helbing and his wife, Ellen, have been married for 55 years. He is the father of four sons and has seven grandchildren.

Monday, June 25, 2007

Former Port Lavaca Councilwoman Briseno to Serve Five Years In Prison for Voter Fraud

Debra M. Briseno also admits to judge to registering noncitizens to vote

EDNA – A former Port Lavaca city councilwoman today was sentenced to five years in prison for committing voter fraud during the March 2006 primary election. A Jackson County jury found Debra M. Briseno, 51, guilty Friday of registering noncitizens to vote. Briseno, who ran unsuccessfully as a candidate for county justice of the peace in that election, also facilitated noncitizen voting by tampering with government documents. The offense of illegal voting is a third-degree felony.

Briseno accepted the five-year prison term as part of a sentencing agreement with the prosecutors from the Office of the Attorney General, the Calhoun County District Attorney and the Jackson County District Attorney.

“Texans will not tolerate illegal schemes that undermine the integrity of the electoral process,” said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott. “Voters can rest assured the Office of the Attorney General will protect the ballot box by aggressively enforcing election laws. We are grateful to Calhoun County District Attorney Dan Heard and Jackson County District Attorney Bobby Bell for their hard work in this case and their commitment to fair elections.”

Under the sentencing agreement, Briseno admitted that she and her husband, Richard Morales, lied to the jury during their testimony last week. Both falsely testified that their voter registrants were informed that only United States citizens can legally vote. Admitting to aggravated perjury, Briseno acknowledged that she did not ask registrants about their citizenship, nor did she inform them that only United States citizens are eligible to vote. As a result, Briseno registered noncitizens to vote in Calhoun County, and thereafter lied about her efforts at trial.

In open court Briseno admitted to one count of tampering with a government record, a state jail felony. In this instance, she visited local residents who were noncitizens and assisted them with their voter registration. She informed them that they needed only a valid driver’s license to become registered to vote. Under Texas law, noncitizens can obtain a driver’s license but are not eligible to vote. Briseno then filled out the portion of the registration application inquiring about citizenship and falsely claimed that the individuals were citizens.

Both Briseno’s confessions to lying to the jury and tampering with a government record were taken into consideration by Jackson County District Judge Joseph P. Kelly when he accepted the sentencing agreement.

Last month, Briseno’s trial was moved from Calhoun County to Jackson County after her counsel filed a motion to change venue. She was transferred from Jackson County to the Calhoun County Jail this morning.

June 25, 2007

Technology Team Shows 4-H Firmly Focused on Future

Writer: Linda Anderson, 979-862-1460,lw-anderson@tamu.edu
Contact: Toby Lepley, 979-845-1212,t-lepley@tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION – Texas 4-H traces its roots back 100 years to the first boys' corn club in Jack County.

Now Texas 4-H'ers are more likely to be into Apples and Blackberries – also Macs, PCs, digital cameras and all kinds of other electronic gadgets and equipment.

Just ask Eugene Holub of Rockdale, Mason Frye of Glen Rose and Kathryn Marburger of Lexington. They are three of the 18 members of the Texas 4-H Technology Team.

A lot of teamwork – heavy on the ‘work,' the members said – goes into the project but so does a lot of fun.

"We do a lot for not just 4-H but for the community," Holub said. "We teach the young and the old (about) new ideas and new programs and all these newly incorporated techniques that come from technology – this rapidly developing technology. We teach them how to use that in their everyday lives and so it makes things easier on them. ... We benefit the people by teaching them a little bit of what we know."

That takes time and effort, Marburger said.

"There's a lot of work in it," she said. "You have to pull your weight (and) make sure you meet deadlines, but while you're working you have a lot of fun. ... It's more than a team, it's a whole group of friends, so while you're working you have fun too."

Frye agreed that the work is hard but rewarding.

"But you're also involved on the front line of a new thing that's being incorporated into 4-H and you get to say that you were one of the first to start it," he said.

The team was organized about three years ago, said Dee Lee Smith, Texas Cooperative Extension agent in Van Zandt County. Smith, who has a master's degree in educational technology, said she was so taken with the concept of the team that she immediately volunteered to be a member of its adult leadership team.

To become a member of the technology team, a 4-H'er must be between the ages of 14 and 18, and fill out an application to join, said Dr. Toby Lepley, Extension 4-H and youth development specialist and one of the team's advisors.

"Team members are required to participate in monthly AIM chats," he said, "attend a majority of the face-to-face meetings held three times a year and provide leadership on various events."

Those events include Texas 4-H Roundup and Texas 4-H Congress.

In addition, each member – alone or with a team – is required to develop a technology-based "Workshop in a Box" each year, Lepley said. These workshops help teach such subjects as Web page development, digital photography, use of Excel and computer building for county agents and 4-H members and adult leaders.

Team members also "teach workshops and sessions at 4-H and Extension activities such as 4-H Ambassadors training, Ideas E-camp workshops and Spring Fling senior camp at the 4-H Conference Center," he said.

Lepley credits Kevin D. Wentzel, technical marketing manager in Hewlett-Packard's Consumer Notebooks Global Business Unit, as providing the inspiration for the Texas team.

Along with one other adult and three young people, Wentzel said, he helped establish the California 4-H Computer Corps in 1998.

Wentzel worked with the California team until he moved Texas in 2003, he said.

The Texas team "was developed using the conceptual structure that the California Computer Corps was developed on, hence the importance and influence of Kevin to Texas," Lepley said.

"I wanted the team to have a strong flavor of youth-adult partnership," Wentzel said. "This means that the adults are not just advisors or ‘leaders,' but that roles of the youth, the adults and the staff include doing the work, planning and making decisions. All should feel that they have a voice in team discussions."

Holub, Marburger and Frye also credit another trio of adults for encouraging them to join: their mothers.

"I've always been interested in computers and technology, and I'm really big into 4-H," Holub said. "My mom found this application (for the technology team), and it's a new project area – first couple of years it's been happening – and it's a way for me to use all my experience and all my knowledge of technology and incorporate it into 4-H."

Frye's introduction to the team was similar.

"I took a few (technology) classes my freshman year in high school and I like computers," he said, "and my mom brought home an application for the technology team so I figured it would be fun and filled it out, and that's how I got started."

Marburger had some experience working with software before her mother told her about the team. Now she is planning her future around technology.

"I start Texas A&M (University) in the fall," Marburger said. "I'm going for an accelerated (five-year) master's degree ... in international marketing."

Technology is going to be part of everybody's future, she said, including 4-H's.

"Right now technology is soaring like crazy," Marburger said. "They're coming out with new things every year, if not sooner. I think that at some point 4-H will have a whole group just based on technology – not only the team but other projects in 4-H that are just technology based like robotics or GIS – because in the future we're going to need them."

For more information about the 4-H technology team, visit http://tx4-h.tamu.edu/technology/ .

June 25, 2007

Noted Texas A&M University Tortilla Researcher Succumbs to Cancer

Writer: Blair Fannin, 979-845-2259,b-fannin@tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION - Dr. Ralph Waniska, a professor of food science and technology in the Cereal Quality Laboratory of Texas A&M University's Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, passed away Monday following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Waniska, whose career at Texas A&M spanned 23 years, was honored late last year by the Tortilla Industry Association for his research contributions to tortilla production. He also recently received the American Association of Cereal Chemists International Excellence in Teaching Award for 2007.

Waniska's achievements included developing standardized evaluation methods for flour tortillas, establishing more efficient leavening systems for hot-press tortillas, defining the different roles of protein in tortillas (compared to bread), comparing ingredients' functions, and determining ways to give shelf stability to baked tortillas.

He earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Nebraska in 1972. He worked as an analytical chemist at Eppley Cancer Institute in Omaha before completing the master of science program at Texas A&M in 1976. He completed doctoral studies in food chemistry at Cornell University, where he conducted research and development on processed fruits and vegetables for the Del Monte Corp.

In 1984, he accepted an assistant professor position at Texas A&M where he was promoted to full professor. He mentored a large number of graduate students who are currently leaders in the food industry.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Memorial Funeral Chapel, 2901 Texas Ave. South, in College Station.

Prior to his passing, Waniska established an endowed graduate assistantship scholarship in grain food processing in the Texas A&M Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.

Memorials may be made to the Waniska Endowed Graduate Assistantship in Grain Food Processing. Checks should be made payable to the Texas A&M Foundation and mailed to 401 George Bush Dr., College Station, Texas, 77840. Additional information can be found at the following link: http://soilcrop.tamu.edu/frontpagenews/WaniskaPledgeCard.pdf or phone 979-847-9314. A background letter on Waniska and his accomplishments can be found at http://soilcrop.tamu.edu/frontpagenews/CoverLetterB&W.pdf.

Friday, June 22, 2007

Former Port Lavaca Councilwoman Found Guilty of Voter Fraud

Debra M. Briseno found guilty of illegal voting

EDNA – A Jackson County jury today returned a guilty verdict against former Port Lavaca councilwoman Debra Martinez Briseno, 51. The jury found her guilty on two counts of illegal voting during the March 2006 Democratic primary, a third-degree felony. The punishment phase of the trial begins Monday. A third-degree felony carries a range of punishment of from two to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

“Texans will never tolerate the contamination of our elections, and public officials who engage in voter fraud will certainly be held accountable, as today’s verdict shows,” said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott. “I am grateful for the assistance of Calhoun County District Attorney Dan Heard, as well as Jackson County District Attorney Bobby Bell in prosecuting this case.”

The Calhoun County District Attorney’s office received a complaint about Briseno’s activities then sought assistance from Attorney General Abbott. The resulting investigation with Calhoun County District Attorney Heard showed that Briseno, who was running for the office of county justice of the peace at the time, made it possible for noncitizens to falsely register to vote and then actually cast ballots in person during the primary, based on her advice.

Last month, Briseno’s trial was moved from Calhoun County to Jackson County on a change of venue motion.

Briseno was also indicted last August on charges of tampering with a government record, a state jail felony, which will be prosecuted separately. On those occasions, she visited local residents who were noncitizens and assisted them with voter registration. She represented to them that they needed only a valid driver’s license to become registered to vote as a U.S. citizen. She filled out the portion of the registration application inquiring of citizenship and affirmatively marked that these individuals were United States citizens.

Today’s verdict exemplifies yet another effort by Attorney General Abbott to crack down on voter fraud in Texas. Earlier this month, five Starr and Hidalgo County residents were indicted in Brooks County on various charges of voter fraud for their conduct during the 2006 election cycle. A grand jury returned felony indictments against the five defendants in an investigation that began with a complaint filed by Starr County Elections Administrator. That case is ongoing.

Friday, June 22, 2007

Attorney General Abbott Reaches Settlement with Austin Credit Repair Service

Agreement requires owner of Austin Credit Doctor to pay penalties, attorneys’ fees

AUSTIN – The owner of a “credit service organization” agreed to pay $75,000 in civil penalties and attorneys’ fees for violating the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Last September, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott charged Steve H. McIntosh, the owner of Austin Credit Doctor and America’s Credit Doctor, with unlawfully overstating his ability to improve consumers’ credit ratings.

According to court documents filed by the Office of the Attorney General, McIntosh also failed to comply with a law that requires credit service organizations to register with state authorities. The settlement follows a district court ruling last month finding McIntosh liable to the state for engaging in unlawful deceptive practices.

“By prohibiting misleading promises and requiring credit counselors to register with the authorities, Texas offer important protections for consumer debtors,” Attorney General Abbott said. “In an age where consumer debt is more pervasive than ever before, we must take all necessary steps to protect struggling debtors from scams. Texans can rest assured that the Office of Attorney General will aggressively crack down on credit repair services that violate the law.”

Between August 2004 and September 2006, McIntosh falsely claimed to operate a registered credit service organization, which he frequently called a “credit repair service.” During the same period, McIntosh also failed to register with the Texas Secretary of State and did not obtain a legally mandated surety bond.

Although the law only allows debtors to remove inaccurate or obsolete items from their credit reports, McIntosh’s companies falsely claimed they could remove items that were merely “negative.” McIntosh, who charged advance fees – between $250 to $950 for individuals and up to $1,250 per couple – for his credit restoration services, did not inform his clients about nonprofit credit counseling services, which is required under Texas law. Although the Texas Finance Code imposes a 180-day limit on credit restoration work, McIntosh often violated the law by completing the work after the limitation period expired.

Debtors in need of credit counseling services should get as much information as possible before hiring a credit repair specialist. Attorney General Abbott offered the following advice:


• Be wary of companies guaranteeing “100 percent” satisfaction on credit repair. In truth, repairing bad credit is neither easy nor quick.
• Companies promising to fix “negative” items on credit reports are being deceptive and may not be licensed to do business. Only erroneous, inaccurate or obsolete (usually more than seven years old) debts are correctible.
• Consumers should contact a credit bureau and inspect credit history. Consumers can repair errors on their own and need not spend hard-earned dollars on credit counselors.

Consumers who believe they have been defrauded by credit repair services may file complaints with the Office of Attorney General by calling toll-free (800) 252-8011, or consumers may file complaints online at www.oag.state.tx.us.

Friday, June 22, 2007

Former Del Valle Teacher Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Charges

Leland K. Easterling found in possession of explicit videos, photos of children

AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit prosecutors have obtained a guilty plea from a former Del Valle High School teacher who acquired numerous computer images and a videotape of children engaged in sexual conduct.

Former geometry teacher Leland Keith Easterling, 60, of Austin, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography. He was indicted on the charges by a federal grand jury last month. The punishment for receipt of child pornography is from five to 20 years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine. The range of punishment for possession of child pornography is up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. Easterling will be sentenced at a later date.

“Texans will not tolerate child pornographers who prey upon our children,” said Attorney General Abbott. “The Cyber Crimes Unit will continue cracking down on sexual predators and child pornographers. This case demonstrates that these criminals can be anywhere.”

At the time of his arrest, Easterling possessed more than 375 computer images of child pornography and nine digital video files of children engaged in sexual conduct. Easterling consented to a search of his computer, where investigators found the illegal images. The joint investigation by Attorney General Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit and U.S. Postal Service inspectors also uncovered a mail-order movie depicting a 13- or 14-year-old girl engaged in sexual acts with an adult male teacher in a “classroom.” Easterling confessed to ordering the videotape by mail.

Attorney General Abbott has earned a national reputation for aggressively arresting and prosecuting child predators. In 2003, he launched the Cyber Crimes Unit, which protects children from online sexual exploitation. The Cyber Crimes Unit and the Fugitive Unit, which locates sex offenders who have violated the terms of their parole and could be stalking children, have combined to arrest almost 600 sex offenders. His office also has obtained convictions against more than 60 men on child pornography charges.

For more information, contact the Office of the Attorney General at (800) 252-8011 or visit the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us.

Weather

Tex Wright reported an inch and a half of rain on Monday and Tuesday morning I poured out three inches out of my Santa Anna National Bank gauge and five inches out of my Coleman County Telephone Coop gauge. I think Cindy might have poured out the bank gauge already from the weekend. We also had a little storm to go along with it as the lights flickered on and off several times and then finally stayed off for an hour or so. Thanks to Joe Zarate and AEP the lights were all on this morning.

Magnolia Weather

How is the weather in Magnolia Texas today?

Plan your trip Local Radar Detailed Forecast

A special SantaAnnaNews "Howdy" to my good friend William "Little Joe" May of Magnolia.

Joe and I a went on a little road trip on our bikes Sunday afternoon to Goldthwaite. Joe had heard about the famous Regency Bridge which is one of the last, and maybe the last, suspension bridge in the state. I knew how to get there and the ride through Brookesmith makes for a trip.

Joe, who is originally from Potosi, and I worked at scout camp together. He has lived in Magnolia since graduating from Texas A&M and is an engineer for a liquid nitrogen pump manufacturing company near Houston.

He expected to get wet on the way home. It sprinkled on us on the way and rained on me three or four more times on the way home. Each time was only for a hundred yards to a half mile or so and none was very substantial except for coming by the Pecan Bayou in Brownwood where it came a pretty good shower for a just a minute.

FORAGE TOUR

By: Marty Gibbs Runnels County CEA-AG
The Runnels County Forage Tour will be held on Monday, July 2, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Olfen at the Leon Hoelscher Farm on FM 2133. The tour will include a variety test plot of haygrazers featuring 11 different varieties planted in April. Also included in the tour will be a Bermuda grass tour of Jiggs and Tifton 85 bermuda grass hay fields as well as a native grass plot with 11 different native grasses established in March of this year. Two hour s of continuing education units will be offered to licensed pesticide applicators in attendance. The tour is sponsored by the Runnels County Ag & Natural Resources Committee and should conclude by 11:30 a.m. For more information or directions to the Leon Hoelscher Farm, please call the Runnels County Extension office at (325)365-2219.

CONSERVATION TILLAGE CONFERENCE

By: Marty Gibbs Runnels County CEA-AG
The Runnels County Conservation Tillage Conference will be held in Ballinger on Friday, July 6, at the new St Mary’s Hall. Scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. with registration, the conference will offer 2 hours of continuing education units to pesticide applicators. Programs and speakers for the morning program include “Weed Resistance Strategies” , Dr Wayne Keeling, Texas Cooperative Extension, Lubbock; “Soil Insects: Are they a Problem?” Dr Chris Sansone, Texas Cooperative Extension, San Angelo; “Soil Analysis: Differences in Methods” Mr David Embry, NRCS-USDA, San Angelo; “Producers Panel” on conservation tillage practices including area farmers Paul Minzenmayer, Fred Wilde, Kenny Halfamnn, and Richard Pelzel

Also scheduled for the conference is “Ethanol and the Future of Grain in the Southern Rolling Plains” Wayne Clevelend, Executive Director, Texas Grain Sorghum Association, Austin; “Economics of Bio-Fuels and Developments in the New Farm Bill” Dr Joe Outlaw, Texas Cooperative Extension, College Station; and “Update on the Lipan-Kickapoo Groundwater Conservation District” Allen Lange, Manager, Lipan-Kickapoo Groundwater Conservation District, Vancourt.

A complimentary cater lunch will be provided at 12:15 p.m. provided by Porter Henderson Implement Company, Bigham Bros., Ballinger National Bank, Citizens State Bank of Miles, Runnels County Farm Bureau, Helena Chemical, First National Bank of Ballinger, First Community Federal Credit Union, Uap Southwest and First Ag Credit. The Conservation Tillage Conference is sponsored by the Southern Rolling Plains Cotton Growers Association, Texas Cooperative Extension, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Runnels County Ag Committee, Concho Valley RC&D, the Runnels County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Soil and Water Conservation Society of America – Concho Valley Chapter.

June 22, 2007

“Speak Out for Military Kids” Event – Training and Reception

Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-467-6575,paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu
Contacts: Marilyn Prause, 254-774-6024,mprause@ag.tamu.edu
Gustavo Bujanda, 214-224-8442,gustavo.bujanda@bm.com

Background: "Operation: Military Kids" is a partnership of Army Child and Youth Services, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National 4-H program, and other organizations. National participants in the program include 4-H, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, the American Legion, and the Military Child Education Coalition. These and other groups work together to support military children and youth across the country.

A key component of the program is "Speak Out for Military Kids"(SOMK). Nationally, this component is composed of hundreds of military and civilian youth, ages 13-17, working as a team to educate the public on issues faced by children in military families during a deployment. As part of the program in Texas, a youth training session and reception will he held on June 30 at the Doubletree Inn-Airport in San Antonio. The event is being sponsored by Operation: Military Kids and Accenture, a global management consulting and technology services company. Texas activities are coordinated through the Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program of Texas Cooperative Extension, part of the Texas A&M University System.

WHO: About 250 people are expected to attend the reception, including children from military families throughout Texas; participants in Operation: Military Kids (Accenture, American Legion, Military One Source, and USAA retiree organization representatives); child youth services directors from the U.S. Army; directors of youth programs from the U.S. Air Force; military officers and other military representatives of Fort Sam Houston, Randolph Air Force Base and Lackland Air Force Base.

WHAT: "Speak Out for Military Kids" program activities, including a training session and a reception. The theme for the event will be "Honoring Our Soldiers – Supporting the Family."

WHERE: Doubletree Inn-Airport (Salon 3), 37 Northeast Loop 410, San Antonio, TX.

WHEN: Saturday, June 30. "Speak Out for Military Kids" training will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (About 20 military and civilian youth from throughout Texas will receive training.) A reception will follow, from 5:30-6:45 p.m.

WHY: This event is being held in appreciation of military families and the challenges the children of these military families face during the deployment of one or both parent(s). "Speak Out for Military Kids" training prepares these children to present issues faced by themselves and others like them to various audiences, including community groups, professional organizations and public servants.

Jun. 22, 2007

Gov. Perry Requests Federal Disaster Declarations for Seven Counties

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today requested that President George W. Bush declare major disaster areas for Bosque, Cooke, Coryell, Denton, Grayson, Lampasas, and Tarrant counties due to severe storms, flooding and tornado damage in North Texas that occurred from June 16 through June 18, 2007. The governor has asked for an expedited declaration.

On Tuesday, the governor issued a state disaster proclamation for Cooke, Grayson, Lampasas and Tarrant counties due to the heavy damage sustained in these communities as a result of the storms. He added Bosque, Coryell and Denton counties to that proclamation today.

Perry also met with local officials and toured the impacted areas in North Texas earlier this week.

“Recent storms have devastated the communities in North Texas, sadly taking lives and homes in the storms’ path,” Perry said. “I am committed to working with state and federal emergency agencies to secure assistance that will help these families and businesses recover and bring about a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible.”

If a federal disaster declaration is granted, it could provide federal grants for individuals and families, disaster housing, disaster unemployment assistance, crisis counseling and Small Business Administration disaster loans. Assistance also may be made available for debris removal and hazard mitigation projects, and loans may be made available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and coordinated by the Division of Emergency Management.

Jun. 22, 2007

Governor and Mrs. Perry to Visit Israel, Jordan

Governor to Receive "Friend of Zion Award"

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry and First Lady Anita Perry today left on a seven-day trip to visit the Middle East nations of Israel and Jordan. In Israel, Gov. Perry will receive the “Friend of Zion Award” from the Global Leadership Council for his leadership in homeland defense, border security and economic development. The award, which is given to “leaders who have played key roles in promoting the close alliance between America and the Jewish state,” will be presented during a ceremony in Jerusalem at the historic Western Wall Square.

Past recipients of this distinguished award include former Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson, Senator Evan Bayh, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, former Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Senator John Kerry, and former Ambassador Jeane J. Kirkpatrick.

Perry is also scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, former Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and former Prime Minister and newly elected President Shimon Peres. In addition, he will meet with the Israeli Chief Scientist, Dr. Eli Opper, and several representatives of the aeronautics, defense systems, homeland security and biotechnology industries.

“America has a special relationship with Israel, and in the midst of turmoil and bloodshed, America must remain an unwavering supporter of a strong Jewish state in the Middle East,” said Gov. Perry. “Though the task is extremely difficult, our nation must be a consistent voice for a new era of peace and security between Israel and its Arab neighbors.”

“I believe Texans share a special kinship with the Israeli people,” he added. “We are both independent-minded and self-reliant, and our history is grounded in strong stands against impossible odds.”

The Perrys will visit several historic sites while in Israel, including Mea Shearim, Nachlat Shiva and Ein Karem, the home town of John the Baptist. They will also visit the Red Sea, the Dead Sea and take a tour of Masada. For less than a day they will also cross into Jordan and visit the City of Petra.

They depart this afternoon, June 22, and return on Friday, June 29. All expenses will be paid by Global Capital Associates, which is hosting the gala awards ceremony where Gov. Perry will be recognized.

Coleman County Youth Activity Center
Presents

Sonny Burgess

Sponsored by Sandi and Ron Carroll
Proceeds go to the new Expo Center

Friday, June 29th

Coleman Rodeo Dance Slab
8:00 pm til 12:00 midnight
Tickets $10
Concession on Site
BYOC- $5 Cooler Charge
No glass containers

Come out to the dance and support the new Expo Center being
built on the Coleman County Youth Activity Center Grounds

City of Clyde Centenial Celebration

The Clyde Community invites everyone to help celebrate our 100th Birthday. The celebration weekend will be July 6th & 7th. A street dance, historical displays, historical artifacts, crafts, food, Blue Bell Ice-cream and art exhibits downtown; Historical documentary with narration, video, pictures, music and Antique Tractor and Car Show at the Junior High Auditorium; Bar-B-Que brisket cookoff, horseshoes, washers, volleyball, kid games and fireworks at Clyde Lake. These are just a few of the planned activities. Most of the events will be free to the public. We want a big turnout for the Centenial Celebration. Please consider this an official invite to our party.

For information call the City of Clyde at 325-893-4234 concerning the Bar-B-Que cookoff entries and the arts and craft booths, or the Clyde Chamber of commerce at 325-893-4221 for general information.

4-H Updates

By: Debbie Hailey, CEA-FCS

Multi-County Camp
June 27-29 Brady, TX
Mark your calendar for this fun event ! More details coming soon !!!

District Record Book Judging
July 17, 2007
If you are planning on submitting a 4-H Record Book, please let us know what category and age division your book needs to be entered in. Completed record books should be turned in to the Extension office on or before July 9th .

4-H LEADERSHIP LAB / DISTRICT OFFICER ELECTIONS
June 28-30, 2007 at the Texas 4-H Center
Registration via 4-H Connect Open May 14 through June 1 Office Applications due to the District Office by June 1
All other forms (Minors Release & Health History) due to District Office by June 15

District Leadership Lab will be held at the Texas 4-H Center in Brownwood on June 28-30 (Thursday through Saturday). Districts 7 and 10 will partner with us for lab and will participate together in the same activities. The cost will be $150.00 per delegate. (This includes all meals beginning with dinner on Thursday and ending with lunch on Saturday, insurance, activity fees, lodging and facility use fee.) All participants must be at least 13 years of age by the date of Leadership Lab. All other forms are due in the County Extension Office by June 12th so I can . Workshops will feature leadership development in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and much more! Get your skills honed while having fun as we work together to *Make The Best Better!*

ICE CREAM SUPPER AT Coleman Co. Electric Coop Annual Mtg.
Friday, July 13, 2007

This year, Coleman county 4-H has been asked to host the refreshments at the Coleman County Electric Cooperative Annual meeting on Friday, July 13 at the Coleman ISD School Cafeteria. We will begin serving at 5:30 p.m. Refreshments which 4-Hers need to bring are *homemade ice cream and homemade cookies.

We also need 4-Hers to help serve at this event. 4-Hers.....this is a great community service activity. Please call the Extension Office at 625-4519 and sign up for what you would like to bring and if you are available that evening to help serve.

4-H Calendar

June

26-28 Multi-County Camp -Brady

28-30 District 4-H Leadership Lab

July
9 Record Books due to Co. Extension Office

13 Ice Cream Supper for Coleman Co. Electric Coop
(Serving begins at 5:30 p.m.) (4-Hers be there by 5:00 pm)

15-21 State Shooting Sports Games - San Antonio

17 District Record Book Judging

23 District Junior & Intermediate Fashion Show

If you have any questions about any of the 4-H events listed above or would like more information about the 4-H programs in Coleman County, please come by the Extension Office, 2nd floor, County Courthouse, or give us a call at 325-625-4519.

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