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Dear Editor:

I went to hear the Democrat candidate for Governor of Texas, Bill White, on July 22nd at the Greggton Community Center in the western part of Longview. When he arrived, I shook hands with him and I made small-talk by telling him about my Great Grandparents George White and Clarissa Jane (Williams) White. He told me about his family. Both his "White" line and mine came to this country in the 1600s.

Then, Mr. White spoke before a small group of concerned citizens in attendance. There were several teachers present and a lady member of the Pine Tree school board who expressed her frustration at the State of Texas passing pay increases for teachers---since it was an "unfunded mandate": she said it was left up to local school boards to scramble quickly to find the needed dollars without having any pre-budgeted straight appropriation.

Another person championed investing in education. Then, I rose my hand. In my question to Mr. White: I mentioned the preceding people who asked questions about education and asked him more precise questions: "Where will the needed revenue come from? What advice do you have for local school boards to help them determine the best revenue enhancement?"

That question must have caught Mr. White flat-footed. He paused a second and then Mr. White said: "It's not my job to give advice to local school boards—I'm running for Governor."

I beg to differ. Mr. White said that he supports higher standards for students and standardization among the various U.S. States. Teaching a core curriculum, in itself, has comparable costs. Although local school boards have discretionary judgment in decision-making, they still must adhere to those similar State and Nationally imposed standards.

Under the plan Mr. White supports, the pay for teachers will obviously be somewhat comparable statewide. With citizen complaints about "unfunded mandates" at both the State and Federal levels....it is imperative that any Governor (whoever that will be after November's election) MUST coordinate funding mechanisms. You can't require districts to be all things, and serve all interests.....if you don't create the pay base for teachers. Mr. White correctly conceded that "money doesn't grow on trees."

I asked him flat-out "Where will the dollars come from?" He said that increases in taxation at the LOCAL LEVEL is appropriate with voter support. I told Mr. White that I believed that property-taxes have already borne enough of the burden. He didn't dispute that. I just want to know where the dollars will come from? Unfunded mandates have governmental entities 'passing the buck' (literally). Smaller Independent school districts such as Gilmer will be affected the hardest. Some voters in some communities may be unable to afford tax increases; while other towns may refuse tax hikes—then, how will they pay for education and other State-mandated items? I believe Federal mandates require Federal funding; and similarly State mandates should be 100 percent funded by State revenue mechanisms. That's the only what to assure soundness and prudence to the system.

Mr. White probably got the most cheers when he said "Texas needs a different Governor." I wholeheartedly agree. But, sadly, I don't think I can give my vote to either Mr. White or Rick Perry. Mr. White is friendly enough; and Rick Perry is cordial enough. Both have drawbacks that I can't reconcile. I don't beleve in "voting for the lesser of two evils." I just wish that voters could elect someone who deals straight with tough revenue decisions. Mr. White gave a soft-spoken commentary on "servant leadership." That sounds noble...but it's too soft and too weak. Rick Perry wants to project an Alpha Male image. He shoots coyotes but misses the mark on meeting Texas' fiscal targets. We don't need a laid-back servant nor a strutting braggadocio. We need a dutiful Governor!!!! Whoever wins—I just hope the next Governor will come up with sound and equitable revenue streams.

James A. Marples, Longview

Dear Editor:

Have you looked around you lately? Really looked around you? Has America become the land of the special interest and home of the double standard?

Let’s see: if we lie to the Congress, it’s a felony and if the congress lies to us it’s just politics; if we dislike a black person, we’re racists and if a black dislikes whites, it’s their 1st Amendment right; the government spends millions to rehabilitate criminals and they do almost nothing for the victims; in public schools you can teach that homosexuality is OK, but you better not use the word God in the process; you can kill an unborn child, but it’s wrong to execute a mass murderer; we don’t burn books in America, we now rewrite them; we got rid of the communist and socialist threat by renaming them progressives; we are unable to close our border with Mexico, but have no problem completely sealing the 38th parallel in Korea; if you protest against President Obama’s political agenda or his policies, you’re a racist or a terrorist, but if you burned an American flag or George Bush in effigy it was your 1st Amendment right.

You can have pornography on TV or the internet, but you better not put a nativity scene in a public park during Christmas; we have eliminated all criminals in America, they are now called sick people; we can use a human fetus for medical research, but it’s wrong to use an animal.

We take money from those who work hard for it and give it to those who don’t want to work; we all support the Constitution, but only when it supports our political ideology; we still have freedom of speech, but only if we are being politically correct; parenting has been replaced with Ritalin and video games; the land of opportunity is now the land of hand outs; the similarity between Hurricane Katrina and the gulf oil spill is that neither president did anything to help.

And how do we handle a major crisis today? The government appoints a committee to determine who’s at fault, then threatens them, passes a law, raises our taxes, tells us the problem is solved so they can get back to their reelection campaign.

If I had lost my life in combat during military service, my widow and minor children would have been the recipients of a lot less care and caring than the average ILLEGAL ALIEN female with four or five anchor children. My widow would have received one check for $3,000 Dependency Indemnity Compensation and then, social security.

The least a survivor of a victim of the 9-11 tragedy got $1,830,000. We have created unconstitutional “bailouts” to help the rich-and-famous corporations and to do political favors and pay-backs.

What has happened to the land of the free and home of the brave?

Is this the nation that most people want now? If it is, then I do not fit in any more. I’m the “alien.”

Bob Worn, Major-USAF (Retired), Pritchett

Dear Editor:

How is that taking God and Jesus and Commandments working out for you?

You know it’s a shame, our service men and women die daily on the battlefield for freedom. Yet people in our country, people kill one and another daily on the streets of freedom.

Our children can’t go outside play or being in school, have to be watched constantly — Freedom.

People kill each other because of lust of flesh — money — drugs — alcohol and just being mad at one another and blame other people for the problems we cause.

We pay taxes to keep the city — state — Washington to keep them going — we the people pay — still we have no say in school books, laws, your property — Freedom.

Here on the streets of freedom, we lock our doors and bars on our windows and doors, don’t leave anything in your vehicle or value — Freedom.

The only time we get along is at a sporting event, because were all involved together for our team.

We have freedom of speech, so why is it when God or Jesus is mentioned, we Christians are counted out or shunned.

But, when sickness comes to your family or friends, you ask us (Christians) to pray for you or your family, but when things get better and crisis passes, where did you go?

When some one dies and you need a preacher, whether saved or sinner, after that where did you go?

You need Christians in time of trouble or things are bad, but when times are good — go away Christians we don’t need you, or your God or Jesus.

So when a 9-11 or massacre at school or in a home, you wonder where was God, lets see, took God out of school - no prayer; took God out of government - no Commandments; took God out of your lives - took God out of our churches and commandments.

Because we don’t want to be responsible for our actions.

And when the Christians are gone and your alone, who will pray for you — the atheist — the drunkard — the tax collector — the government official — the gays — the prostitute — the thief — the liar — molester.

No. Christians stand in the gap for everyone, no matter color or creed. The only difference between Christians and un-Christians is we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior and invited Jesus Christ into our hearts and the renewing of our mind in thoughts, in scripture.

Look at the ten commandments, thats real freedom.

Look at your kids and cry out loud to Jesus for their souls, their safety, show them you care.

I’M PROUD OF MY GOD AND JESUS.

I pray for my country and community and you — pray for me.

Mike Davis, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Several years ago the citizens of Upshur County decided they were tired of paying nearly a million dollars a year to fill the potholes in their rural roads.

They voted to hire a professional road engineer so the road problem would be addressed properly.

The county commissioners did not want a road engineer, and worked against the idea of having one. They have made sure we don’t have one as of today.

One commissioner, Mr. Crittenden, has received so many complaints about it that he made a motion at the July 15, 2010 meeting to interview road engineers with the intent to hire one.

None of the other commissioners would second the motion, thus killing the possibility of a vote.

Finally, it was agreed to remove the phrase about actually hiring a road engineer from the motion, and it passed.

So they have effectively postponed the possibility of following the citizens’ wishes about hiring a road engineer.

Why go to the expense of publishing for people to apply for the job, when at this point the commissioners have no legal authority to hire one?

It seems like one more roadblock in the process of doing what the majority of citizens asked the commissioners to do.

They need to remember that they serve at our pleasure, and they are elected to fulfill the duties of the office.

They were not elected to impose their personal agenda on the citizens of Upshur County.

The citizens have the common sense to see what is not working and to vote to get something that might work better.

It is the responsibility of the commissioners to implement the legal actions of the citizens and work with us for better roads.

Elections are designed to protect the people from being ignored and their common sense being held in contempt.

A concerned citizen,

Jane Rinehart, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Reference, Upshur County to Interview for Road Engineer.

It seems that the citizens of Upshur County have finely had enough of the sorry way the roads have been managed. The current road administrator has been less that effective. He also is clearly lacking in people skills. I can attest to this after meeting with him about the way my road was rebuilt two years ago. He looked at me and said “ You get what you get”. Well today my road, Flying Squirrel is in BAD need of repair.

What were they thinking. After many years of wrangling over the need for a road engineer, they again decide to search for one. One problem, they clearly state that they are only looking with no clear intent to hire. Why would anyone respond to a job ad knowing that they probably would not hire you.

Why can’t this Commissioners Court come together and do what the taxpayers have requested via three affirmative votes to keep the Road Engineer program, not the Road Administrator program.

It seems that this court does nothing but argue among itself and with the citizens. They openly display how un-organized they are.

And now they are going to advertise for a Road Engineer with no clear intent to hire. Come on, make a positive decision, do something right for a change.

Hoping for better roads,

Jim Roberts, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

One of the workers in the shipyard at Belfast that built the Titanic stated that "this ship is so strong God couldn't sink it!" That was a very prideful boast. The Captain of the Titanic wanted to set a record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. The Captain's pride ignored warnings of iceberg flows.

The more things change, the more things stay the same. All of creation, including science and technology, comes from God. Man's pride and corruption are of his own making.

The prostitution of the auto industry with the oil industry is corruption that has not only sunk the Deepwater Horizon, but it is also sinking mother ship earth. If only a Tesla cost less than a shotgun shack on the bayou, the mother ship might make it into port safely.

Once again Texas, please pray the little prayer at www.de-vrouwe.net every day to help put the fire on the water out and to help put a plug into the navel. Thank you.

Matt "Houston" Dunnigan, Rome, Italy

Dear Editor:

We live off Evergreen Road, about 5 miles South of Gilmer. Every year people dump off a dog or cat or two and sometimes they get saved, sometimes they do not.

This time, some INHUMANE person dumped a set of five beautiful Basset Hunting dogs on the property we watch over. So far two have been killed on 271, one is missing and two have finally agreed to come to our barn for food.

They won’t come to us, though we have tried. They were starving to death. Nothing but skin and bones the first time I was able to get close enough to tell.

Why couldn’t this person have taken them to the Humane Shelter in Longview?

I reported them to the Sheriff’s Office and they took the information. That was when I thought they had just gotten lost and some fine man would be looking for them.

What a difference a month has made in our opinion of that fine hunting man.

Anybody? Do you know that person? Can you tell them to at least come and call the remaining ones up for us to be able to help them?

Erwin and Bev Hudson, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

After reading Donald Kaul’s piece (“God’s to Blame, Too”; Gilmer Mirror, June 12), I felt that the editorial staff of The Mirror had lost its collective mind. Perhaps, though, it has been a service because Kaul asks hard questions that must be answered by anyone who hopes to have a genuine relationship with God.

It is too easy to hand-wave the evil in this world. After all, the evil is all Satan’s fault; but is it?

If I had foreknowledge that the 9-11 disasters were to occur and did not do all in my power to prevent them, I would expect to be punished as an accessory.

At least, I would expect to incur the rancor of the community. No way would a sane person expect me to be worshipped. Yet, there is One who has all power and knowledge and He chose to do nothing to prevent it.

Does anyone think that when the towers fell, God threw up His hands and said, “My goodness. I never expected THAT to happen!”

I have had the same doubts about God being good, loving or just in view of all objective evidence. Maybe the question is not if God is good, loving or just. There is one attribute of God that trumps all others. God is sovereign.

He does what He does for His own reasons and He is not answerable to me, to you, or to any of His creatures. He is free to reward, punish, enliven and dispose of His creatures as He pleases and His actions are beyond any human examination, understanding or judgment.

Not always a comforting thought. I mean, who does He think He is? God?

My favorite prayer was the first one I learned when I seriously sought a relationship with a Higher Power (parenthetical comments mine):

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change (which is all You do),

Courage to change the things I can (which is by humbly placing myself under Your protection and care instead of trying to figure things out),

And the wisdom to know the difference (even if I never understand).

Michael Littlefield, Winnsboro

Dear Editor:

Wake up Upshur County — Where is my tax money going?

Seagull Road is one mile long, period, with six houses on it.

You leave your county equipment idle on it for one and a half weeks.

On June 16, you start work tearing the road up at 10:30 a.m.; at 12 you go to lunch until 1:30 p.m.; and at 1:30 you work until 3:30 p.m.

Talk about banker’s hours, quit the bank and go to work for Upshur roads.

Maybe my mile will get finished by June 18.

Marlene Wacasey, Upshur County, Gladewater

Dear Editor:

The small community of Ore City goes unnoticed in this fast paced world we all live in . . . the little town with just one traffic light (which really helps when giving directions!), a Post Office, two banks, some gas stations and other businesses.

Busy commuters make their way through town buzzing along U.S. 259 and on their way they will pass Ore City Independent School District and they can’t help but notice how the school stands out.

How do I know this . . . because I have worked for this school district for 25 years and have been witness to complete strangers making it a point to come to the central office to compliment our staff on the grounds and how well manicured they are.

We have a great staff at Ore City ISD, all of whom contribute to this district in so many ways and we thank them, but right now I want to zero in on the guys who keep this place looking awesome — THANK YOU!!

Can’t wait for that new elementary school to open up and I guarantee the grounds will look just as awesome there, too!

Sherry Sexton, Ore City

Dear Editor:

June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, and it’s the perfect time for people who are ready to love and care for a feline friend to save a life by adopting from their local animal shelter.

Shelters everywhere are overflowing with healthy, friendly,and affectionate cats of every stripe. The need for responsible, loving homesis especially great right now, as many Americans are surrendering their animal companions due to financial hardships or home foreclosures. Spring and summer are also “kitten season,” when shelters struggle to accommodate litter after litter of kittens who are born because of people who didn’thave their cats spayed or neutered.

Together, we can work toward the day when all cats have loving homes by adopting from shelters, boycotting pet stores and breeders(which bring more animals into a world that is already critically short of good homes), and always having our animals spayed and neutered. Visit www.HelpingAnimals.com for more ways to help.

Lindsay Pollard-Post, Norfolk, Va.

Research Specialist, The PETA Foundation

Dear Editor:

How proud those of us in the Ore City community can be of our new elementary school! It took a long time to get the bond issue passed and it was by a slender margin. It took much careful planning and many hours by school personnel and community people to get to this stage with this much needed school facility.

Now the opening will be for the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year. I drive by this building at least a couple of times a day and am impressed by the physical plant. It is architecturally balanced and esthetically pleasing to see. No matter how pleasing this building may look when viewed from the outside, we all know that it is what goes on inside that matters. The people in our local school district who work with our young people are committed, devoted, and selfless in their effort to provide an educational experience for the young people who come to them.

Each person who works for this district is a role model for our young people and each of them seems to do their very best for those youth. From preparing lessons which address educational needs to keeping the facility clean, from preparing nutritious food to keeping up with state-mandated (and often unfunded) regulations, from keeping up with medical, emotional, physical and family-related needs to providing safe transportation, the staff of our local school does great service to our community.

I have personally witnessed how this staff goes above and beyond what could reasonably be expected of them. Student after student has benefited from their care and devotion.We can all be proud of this new building. We can also be proud of the people who work with our young people. Outside and inside, things look good for our youth.

Nell Freedman, Ore City

Dear Editor:

Subject: “In Their Honor” a Pictorial History of Upshur County Veterans

We, the citizens of Upshur County, owe a big debt of gratitude to Mrs. Sarah Greene for her effort and hard work collecting, organizing and editing this book.

Without the dedication and love put into this project, we would not have this archive of valuable information to pass on to future generations.

Hopefully, children and grandchildren will look at these pictures and read the biographies and be reminded of sacrifices these veterans made in order for us all to enjoy the freedoms we have every day of our lives.

Once again, thank you to Mrs. Greene. But, more importantly, “thank you” to all veterans on this Memorial Day 2010.

Joyce and Gerald Payne, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

East Texans Against Lawsuit Abuse has worked diligently for years to end abuses in our legal system. Right now, we are fighting against efforts that would allow “no proof” asbestos lawsuits in Texas. This preposterous proposal was actually approved by the Texas Senate in 2009 but thankfully cooler heads prevailed in the House of Representatives. But, it’s far from over and the issue was the subject at a recent interim committee hearing. This misguided measure will undermine years of reform efforts that have proven beneficial to Texas, to our job market, and our overall economy.

Maintaining current law and accepted standards for evidence in asbestos-related lawsuits is vital to maintaining a fair and just legal system. As it stands now, legitimate victims are able to receive the compensation they deserve and need. ETALA will continue to fight against greedy tactics and work to encourage lawmakers to protect jobs, families and employers and work to ensure our courts are used for justice, not greed.

Diane Davis, Longview

Executive Director, East Texans Against Lawsuit Abuse

Dear Editor:

I read the article in The Gilmer Mirror: "GISD hears report on delinquent taxes," telling about the Longview lawyer who is a debt-collector for the Gilmer School District, and his attempts at pursuing those cases — but he sometimes is unsuccessful. I very much appreciated his candid remarks that if people "don't have the money, then the taxes are not getting paid" and "A lot of people don't owe that much money...."

In modern-day America which is outwardly prosperous enough to donate huge sums to hurricane and earthquake prone regions — I find it astounding that we cannot do more to help our own citizens, including those eking-out a meager living, especially in rural areas. We need to help people offset a little bit of debt. What will we do if , heaven forbid, this country takes another bad economic downturn ?

In her unsuccessful campaign for Governor of Texas this past Spring, candidate Debra Medina pounded the drumbeat for the abolition of property taxes. While I smiled at that, I am painfully aware that abandoning all property taxes is not mathematically feasible. If you look at State Budgets as a revenue ledger: you must match "intake" with "outgo."

I think most residents inside the Gilmer School District (along with people in other districts statewide and nationwide) earnestly desire to be law-abiding people who pay their taxes. While I do not champion the openly defiant or anyone with total sloth or laziness, I do feel that there should be a mechanism for otherwise good and decent citizens in doing some type of Community Service to help them meet their tax obligations, at least partially. I wouldn't advocate this for people who own large parcels of land. But, people with perhaps two acres or less; living on-site; and especially people who have been at their residences for 20 years or more should have some leeway if they don't have enough greenbacks in their pockets.

It isn't freeloading if you give citizens a way of utilizing what they can do (and are able to do). Many letters-to-the-editor complain about litter. Some older people may grow gardens. Let them donate their surplus to the foodbank and receive a paper receipt for their contributions ?

Lastly, the State of Texas needs to stop penalizing counties for gaps in ownership. Laws are meant to be firm...but fair. If people don't owe that much (which is what the attorney said) — then let's look for feasible methods at collecting something and keeping a citizenry motivated enough to stay on their land. People need to exist somewhere. I say: provide some options toward honorable debt solutions even if it's barter. We can be charitable in disasters. We need to be decent in allowing people to have some small measure of life, liberty, and property here in this neck-of-the-country. If people have an interest in it — Let's devise something they can contribute besides cash. If we don't act now: more and more people will face a monetary disaster in the future when it comes to paying taxes.

James A. Marples, Longview

Dear Editor:

Over 200 American citizens from 27 states have filed a legal action that will greatly benefit your readers. The Defendants are officials of the Federal Reserve System, Wall Street Banks and individuals of the six bank regulators.

One basis for the action is The FED is NOT an independent government agency. The complaint, filed in Charlotte, N.C., proves the 12 Fed Banks, lending us paper money they illegally create, are owned by Wall Street banks. Citizens have paid $7 trillion to borrow their own money. Its recovery will be distributed to the states. A million seconds is 13 days, a billion are 31 years, a trillion are 31,688 years.

Hugh W. Johnston, Gastonia, N.C

Dear Editor:

On Friday, April 30, I attended the Gilmer High School majorette and drum major tryouts, and although I have attended many of these in my career, this one was the best organized and professionally run that I have ever observed.

Eric Gray is to be commended. I was particularly touched by the way ALL of the girls trying out for majorette clapped for each individual girl as she left the choir room to perform in the band hall for her solo routine, encouraging excellence.

I have personally NEVER seen this in such a competitive format before now.

Kudos to everyone involved!

Dr. Marcy Ragland, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

This is to say “thank you” to Betty Cook and helpers for putting on a great doll show last Saturday.

It gave us “doll lovers” a chance to relive our youth, and remember what is was like to wake up on Christmas Day and find that special baby doll under the tree.

The display by Betty Cook and her daughter, Karen Gee, was a show by itself.

The American Doll collection was wonderful and the clothes made by Karen were beautiful.

If this show is held again next year, I urge mothers to take their young girls to enjoy the show.

Joyce Payne, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

While I knew there were some folks who recycled in this area, I was pleasantly surprised to read in The Mirror, an article about the volunteers at ETEX.

As an avid recycler myself, I belatedly wish to extend my appreciation for their efforts.

Well done!

Sherri Little, Upshur County

Dear Editor:

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month. Last year the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services estimated the child population of Upshur County at 9,084. One hundred and forty-three of those children were confirmed to have been abused (http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/documents/about/Data_Books_and_Annual_Reports/2009/10CountyCharts.pdf). Child abuse is neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse or emotional abuse. Researchers into the causes of child abuse have found that families involved in child abuse lack the protective factors of parental resilience, social connections, knowledge of parenting and child development, nurturing and attachment, and concrete supports.

In my opinion, our society is somewhat disjointed, thereby causing poor communication throughout. No one person can remedy this; it takes society as a whole to function properly. Last year, I attempted 1,298 outreach efforts in Upshur County through parenting classes, and distribution of parenting materials. Our STAR Program also assists familes with one-on-one counseling for children with family conflict, runaways, truancy, or delinquency.

I’ve been trying something new for the past two years: a life skills and social skills program that covers the gamut of skills on an annual basis through pamphlets distributed once monthly, covering related topics. You’ll find these in your local library if you have not attended my classes and gotten on the mailing list. National research on this method shows it reduces risky behavior and improves grades or functioniing skills. It’s something everyone can do; just think of the things you know to do that will civilize our society and bring quality education through entertainment.

Cathy Robinson, B.A, QMHP

Prevention and Early Intervention Specialist

UCAP/STAR Program

Community Healthcore

Dear Editor:

April 18-24, 2010 marks the 37th annual National Volunteer Week. On behalf of the American Cancer Society, I want to recognize and celebrate the efforts of more than three million volunteers nationwide that are making a difference for people facing cancer. In our East Texas region nearly 3,000 volunteers impact the community in ways that could not be done without their personal commitment to creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

Everyday, our dedicated volunteers contribute to helping people stay well, get well, find cures and fight back against cancer through a variety of roles and Society efforts. Such programs include: driving patients to and from treatment and providing one-on-one support as survivors to newly diagnosed patients. Volunteers also speak with lawmakers about issues that matter to people touched by cancer. And many raise funds for local services and cancer research while celebrating the lives of those touched by cancer and remembering loved ones lost.

Volunteers are the foundation of the Society. Thank you to those who give your time, and invest in saving lives in our community.

Letha Tullos, Regional Vice President of Field Operations

American Cancer Society, High Plains Division, Inc.

East Texas Region

Dear Editor:

After reading the article . . . “Texans should take measures to keep roadsides free of trash,” I was amazed at the expense we are spending on litter pickup on the Texas highways.

The article mentioned that in 2009 the TxDOT spent approximately $48 million. In the Atlanta District alone, TxDOT has spent more than $700,000.

After a second thought, thinking of the cost that is spent on pickup, why not think about doing something about the cause.

Who is doing the littering — people throwing trash from vehicles, or dumping.

Why not find the areas with the most littering and set up cameras, hire some to witness the littering and get license plate numbers, or enforce stricter penalties?

The cost might outweigh one or the other, but our highways are just a mess.

Friends and relatives who visit our state or our small towns comment on the litter.

Animals lay on the highways for days, having to be seen by passersby, which in my opinion the highway department should be responsible for the removal of dead animals.

U.S. 259, between Ore City and Longview, is a good example.

I do appreciate the volunteer groups adopting miles of rights-of-way, but as the article says, it’s only a dent.

Let’s go after the real problem, give stricter fines, catch the people who are doing this.

Where is Willie Nelson? Miss his commercials.

Come on Willie, step back up and help this great country of ours.

DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS!

I live on Snapdragon Rd., a blacktop off of U.S. 259. It is also a cut through from 1649 to U.S.. 259. Our road is a mess.

I personally put up a “Slow Down and Don’t Litter” sign, which I have people throw trash at my sign.

It happens while I am not at home.

Snapdragon is a busy road and littering does make our neighborhood look “trashy.”

Maybe more articles or more awareness to people through The Gilmer Mirror will let people know litter is a problem.

Also, please emphasize the importance of getting your pets spayed or neutered.

We need lower cost for this, or maybe some veterinarians to offer lower cost. Cost being the main issue.

Billie Edwards, Ore City

Dear Editor:

After watching numerous TV commercials and newspaper ads imploring people to “fill out the census,” I have been encountering the ultimate irony: I've been without a census questionnaire but have been eagerly volunteering to get one to fill out — without anyone at the census office answering my plea.

Some 10 years ago when the last census was taken, I was still residing at my boyhood home in Kansas (where I ultimately lived some 38 years). Later, I removed to northern Kansas to a house that I still own. Still later, I spent a little time in Utah and Nebraska, trying to repair my life after a car ran a red-light and hit me (I was a pedestrian when it happened). The collision broke my leg and caused internal injuries.

I have been in Texas over six years where I am registered to vote, where I bank, shop, live and drive my vehicle with Texas plates and a Texas Driver's License. I have had the same postal address here all this while. Since I hadn't received a census form (and none had been forwarded to me from my previous addresses), I decided to take action as a good citizen would: to contact the Census Bureau. I phoned the Dallas field office; the Denver CO field office; the Kansas City regional office; the Salt Lake City field office; and the National Census office in Washington DC. All of them told me that they were helpless to do anything and that I should "wait" and call back after April 12th. I intend to do so. But, I am quite disgusted by the government wasting millions of dollars in a glitzy ad campaign and then failing to answer and fulfill a request when a good citizen tries to comply with the Constitutional mandate of a nationwide Census head-count. Years ago, I registered at the local post office with the Selective Service System in case of a military Draft. The Census Bureau and the Post Office should team-up to make it easier for people to complete the 2010 Census. It would be easy and it would help boost compliance.

James A. Marples, Longview

Dear Editor:

Energize with Nuclear Power

Oil is a diminishing and expensive source of energy, and coal is dirty.

Alternative energy sources, including solar and wind power, can only provide 10% to 20% of our energy requirements.

President Obama has increased government loan guaranties for new nuclear power plants from $18.5 billion to $54.5 billion, which should give impetus to the nuclear power industry.

There are 20 nuclear plants undergoing decommissioning, and we could construct new 2,000 megawatt units at these sites for a reduced investment by using the existing infrastructure. Nuclear plants have provided clean, cheap and safe power from 104 units. The only accident was at Three Mile Island, where almost all of the radiation was contained in the containment building. Subsequently, the NRC made changes in how it regulates nuclear power plants, and this has significantly reduced any risk to public safety.

We have to address the problem of leaking radioactive wastewater from underground pipes. The solution might be using higher quality pipes or moving the pipes above ground where they can be easily monitored.

Another problem is the disposal of nuclear waste, which has been collecting on plant sites. The solution is to neutralize and recycle the waste. France has perfected a process to recycle nuclear waste, and it is able to generate 80% of its energy requirements from nuclear power.

We need more nuclear power plants to counter the effects of global warming, eliminate foreign oil purchases, and reduce the use of fossil fuels.

Donald A. Moskowitz

Londonderry, NH

Dear Editor:

Can Texas grow in stature and influence?

I am as patriotic an American as the next person. Those individuals who fought in the Revolutionary War did so with initial amounts of great reluctance. But, after the war was won, the new nation was established by the wisdom of our “Founding Fathers” who saw hardships and difficulties — and they clearly demonstrated via their founding documents that they wanted their posterity to have a happier life, free from the burdens which they themselves endured. I had ancestors who fought in that war, and their efforts were to break the shackles of being 13 stepped-on colonies. Independence enabled them the freedom and mobility to be 13 Sovereign States under the protective umbrella of one federal government, whose mission was limited, benevolent and mostly being a protectionist shield against foreign foes.

As a country, we keep evolving. I had family who served on both sides of the Civil War. My great-grandfather, Charles Marples, served in the 3rd Minnesota Infantry during the U.S. Civil War. He was drafted in 1864 on orders given by President Abraham Lincoln. His unit — although technically classified as “infantry” resembled a cavalry unit more — which saw extensive combat action in the Carolinas in “The Deep South.” He was blessed with nine children; yet he only lived to the age of 52. He died April 22, 1876 in Blue Springs, Nebraska.

I sometimes scratch my head and ponder: “What if my greatgrandfather had lived longer?” It is obvious his hopes, dreams and aspirations were not all achieved when he died. Similarly, when I look at Texas history, I am mindful that Stephen F. Austin, known as “The Father of Texas” and the “first Secretary-of-State of the Republic of Texas” died at age 43. He never lived to see Texas become a State. I'm not even sure he would have approved of it. His main goal was to see Texas be a self-sufficient, independent Republic.

For some time, the original Republic of Texas comprised a wider swath of area than we know as the Texas of today — which even took in parts of modern-day Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and Wyoming. These additional lands were ceded back to the federal government in exchange for cancellation of Texas’ debts at the time.

I find it ironic how today the tables have turned: the federal government is neck-deep in debt. Federal programs are nice in some areas, and redundant or excessive in other areas. Bad pork-barrel politics and career bureaucrats feeding at the same watering-hole have distorted legitimate budgetary needs. Federally sponsored programs have grown so bloated that they can not be administered effectively or efficiently. Nearly every State Governor in the 50 States is anguished by the complexity of the spider-web of federal and state regulations, especially in areas of taxation and entitlement programs. Law is an honorable profession; but fleets of lawyers have morphed into a small guerrilla army which makes litigation a bloody combat zone. Cases with merit cannot be shifted from the many frivolous cases. Many states are on the verge of financial collapse. Yet, the political ads roll-on.

I’d like to see Texas get back to its roots, where people can enjoy the blessings of freedom by a governmental blueprint similar to what we formerly had. I’d like to see Texas become self-sufficient with its water, food, fuel, housing, transportation, industrial jobs, health care, recreation and regulating its sovereign boundaries. I believe we can grow in stature and in influence. And, if citizens of areas which formerly comprised the “Republic of Texas” wish to re-join us.....I’d say: “Let their wish be granted.”

Only kooks and crackpots talk about secession. That silly talk only rallies desperate people to pull back and withdraw into a fetal position. I am not suggesting that. I think we should muster the courage to regulate our own Destiny by creating an environment which can be controlled by Texans. Today's vulnerable areas of banking and trade are shaky because Washington, D.C. has put all of its eggs in one basket. No single region is insulated anymore. Our power grid, our bank, our food supply, and our basic needs should exist as a stand-alone resource which every Texan should readily insist on in the 21st Century. We can trade with other states and foreign countries on a secondary basis. But, our prime concern needs to be on the stability of Texas itself.

I believe the rational approach is to do a reverse transaction as what was done in 1845. Back then, millions of acres of Texas soil was traded to relieve a debt. Today, I believe that many Oklahomans and Kansans would eagerly want to again become part of Texas — since this would give them peace-of-mind, since they share Texas' original character traits of honesty, integrity, and taking care of our own.

Our “Founding Fathers” knew we would grow. Let’s do our part to make sure that Texas keeps growing strong and tall. We can remain part of the same “garden” = “Union.” However, we cannot be watered-down with weaker rights or over-fertilized with seemingly helpful federal mandates which will only stunt our growth over the long-term.

James A. Marples, Longview

Dear Editor:

We have heard candidates speak and express their reasons for seeking the various offices of our county, state and federal governments.

They have identified themselves as Democrats, Republicans or Libertarians.

If we did not know that they were of one of the three parties, how would we view or judge them as being qualified for the office they are seeking.

Would it be more beneficial if they were identified as a Conservative or a Liberal?

At the county level, we should look at their educational background, their work ethics, and how they would manage the county business more efficiently and increase productivity.

Our county budget is approximately $17,000,000. Each department or office holder could and should resolve to submit and work within a budget that requires some restraint to live with their budget.

We, the county, should compensate outstanding producers and eliminate the poor producers in every department.

I have gone past offices and witnessed county office holders and employees filing their fingernails and others reading the paper and/or working the crossword puzzles.

Without seeing a time and motion study by qualified consultants, I believe that we have some departments that are properly staffed and productive.

One level that controls their own salary and time devoted to the office is the commissioners.

The current commissioner’s salary is $40,990 per year, plus approximately $8,000 in benefits, etc.

One commissioner’s salary is $39,490.

The commissioners have been relieved of at least 50 percent of their responsibilities and time devoted to their previous work load by the road engineer or road administrator that we now have.

I would suggest that the commissioners reduce their current salary by 30 to 50 percent. They could keep their present job and devote at least 20 hours per week managing the county’s business.

This would be similar to bank directors, school board members, city council members, except it would be considerably more than they receive as a salary.

A small portion of their savings could be used to hire a qualified engineer as the citizens have voted to do three times in the past eight years.

Based on our current economy and projected figures for the next few years, we need to take actions now to anticipate the revenue and expenses that our county will experience in the near future.

The people we elect to these different positions should be qualified to make the decisions and take action.

Wayne Arnold, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Scrutinize defense spending.

Defense spending is by far the largest expenditure of our federal government, and it's increasing every year. The Defense budget represents about half of all U.S. discretionary spending.

Our Defense appropriations exceed the total amount of defense spending by all other nations in the world — combined! Defense spending is one of the largest contributors to our huge deficits.

We are embroiled in two wars, racking up deficits, and Americans are not willing to pay for them by having their taxes increased.

We can't have it both ways; either we pay for our wars, or we incur further deficits.

The U.S. no longer can be the world's sole policeman. It will take the combined efforts of all civilized nations to help stamp out terrorism throughout the world.

The Defense Budget is a 'sacred cow' that few legislators seem willing to trim because they will almost certainly be labeled as being soft on defense -- or even worse, 'unpatriotic.'

There is always fat and waste that can be trimmed in any budget. Defense Department budgets should receive the same scrutiny as any other department of our government and should not be immune from legitimate cuts in unnecessary, wasteful spending.

Paul G. Jaehnert, Vadnais Hts., Minn.

Dear Editor:

In response to comments in the Pritchett News on Feb. 3 about his concern for the welfare of the feral hogs, I can assure him that the wild hog population is doing just fine.

The government has been trying to control this population for many years and has been losing badly, even though they employ some of the finest and toughest hunters Texas has to offer.

I think his sympathy would be better placed with the farmers and ranchers who have to contend with loss of rooted pasture, ruined equipment and disease introduced into their domestic herds; not to mention the predation on the lambs and kid goats in the Hill Country.

As a retired government trapper, I have seen the aftermath of destruction that these animals cause.

They can reproduce three litters, with as many as eight to 13 piglets in each litter, in as little as a year.

A hunting season would not work because feral hogs breed year around.

One way of control that would be more production would be to have the legislature adopt a bounty system to control this problem.

Jim Barnhart, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I would like to take this time to correct a bit of information that was printed in The Gilmer Mirror concerning the recent visit of our US Senator and gubernatorial candidate, Kay Bailey-Hutchison.

A group of Pritchett citizens, led by Mrs. Doris Thomas, extended to the Senator an invitation to visit Pritchett and meet the people of Upshur County. To their delight, Senator Hutchison accepted their invitation. No, as much as we, The Republican Women of Upshur County, would like to take credit for this historical happening, we cannot. We must give credit where credit is due — to the people of Pritchett.

What an amazing country and COUNTY we live in when a few folks can gather together and realize their power to make things happen! Congratulations to Mrs. Doris Thomas and the people of Pritchett! What a success! On behalf of The Republican Women of Upshur County, thank you for bringing to our bountiful and beautiful County a United States Senator!

Rhonda Pope, President,

Republican Women of Upshur County

Dear Editor:

Re: Upshur County Deputies James Gillen, # 530, and Deputy Beasley, # 531

I know you always hear about your deputies when they do something wrong, but this is about two deputies who went far and beyond what is expected of them.

I am 71 years old and was traveling from Linden to Gilmer when I had a flat tire, the first in over 10 years. It was pitch black, 11 p.m., no cell phone signal and no flashlight in the car.

Deputies Gillen and Beasley stopped and ask if they could help. I asked if I could borrow their flashlight so I could change the tire. To my surprise, they said “let us help,” and they changed my tire on that dark cold night.

I will be ever grateful to them for their act of kindness and going far beyond their duty.

Sincerely,

Bill Asay, Holly Lake Ranch

Dear Editor:

Having intended to write this when I first read of the initiative, I belatedly offer my congratuations to the Gilmer teacher and those volunteer students who have taken up the challenge to build a solar -powered vehicle.

They are to be commended, and I wish them great success.

Good motoring!

Sherri Little, Upshur County

Dear Editor:

Small-town law enforcement departments seem to sometimes carry the stigma of “donut eaters and Barney Fife,” but the tragic events of the past week certainly disproved all the hoopla.

Although the area task force assisted them, let it be known that the investigation and speedy arrest of a murder suspect was totally coordinated by our own extremely qualified and well-trained officers.

Only the officers and their families know of the long and unbroken shifts of duty that were pulled working this case. Please join me in praising these dedicated officers as they continue to serve us every day.

Jim Ragland, Gilmer

www.RicksDirtyDeals.com

AUSTIN – Today, Back to Basics PAC launched a new website highlighting a few of the suspicious and murky land deals that have put hundreds of thousands of dollars in Rick Perry’s pockets.

Rick Perry said, "The idea that you're supposed to go get an ethics report when you buy a piece of property might be a bit cumbersome for elected officials."

We disagree, Governor. Back to Basics PAC believes Texans have a right to know about Perry's dirty deals, and we will continue doing everything we can to make sure all Texas voters hear about his unethical and corrupt behavior.

Visitors can watch Perry play “Let’s Make a Deal” at www.RicksDirtyDeals.com.