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Bandera County Courier is published weekly by Gail S. Joiner, 1210 Hackberry St., Bandera, TX 78003. Subscription price $26 per year in Bandera County, TX; $36 per year for other Texas counties; $40 per year out of Texas. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Bandera County Courier, P.O. Box 1704, Bandera, TX 78003. Periodicals Postage pending in Bandera, Texas.

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Letters archived in the on-line edition of the Courier:

Published May 8, 2008	Noise in the city Likes new flag Great Bandera Goat Brouhaha Respect for the US Why the yellow fringe? Wheelchair unfriendly
Published May 1, 2008	Looking for a witness Cautionary tail
Published April 24, 2008	Water tower Kudos for water coverage
Published April 3, 2008	I feel like a winner It takes a village
Published March 27, 2008	Understanding Texas
Published March 20, 2008	Signals?
Published Feb. 21, 2008	Dumping on Elm Pass Road Kaiser answers Reese questions
Published Feb. 14, 2008	Shame on elected officials Questions to Kaiser Dumping
Published Feb. 7, 2008	The truth about Bandera GOP
Published Jan. 31, 2008	Lest You Forget! Why hold a ‘trial’? Case closed? BISD ‘Birthday Bashes’ Vote to support Becky
Published Jan. 24, 2008	Growth Hitting Bandera? Where is it?
Published Jan. 17, 2008	The Value of an Animal
Published Jan. 10, 2008	Open meeting violation? The 'new' light bulb — MegaLight CCPAL — information & clarification
Published Jan. 3, 2008	A laff a week
Letters published in the second half of 2007
Letters published in the first half of 2007	Letters published in the second half of 2006
Letters published in the first half of 2006	Letters published in 2005

Noise in the city Published May 8, 2008    In July 2001, when I was mayor of Bandera, Councilmen Joe Davis and Charlie Fellowes, along with acting City Administrator Don Clare wanted to lower the allowable decibel levels in the city. At that time, the reason given was that a business located across the street from Mr. Davis closed at 9 pm.     I wanted to know exactly what the current decibel numbers of 63 and 70 actually meant, so we arranged a little “test.” When then Police Chief Bubba Popham and then Lt. Shane Merritt used the meter, 80 percent or more of the vehicles traveling along Main Street failed the test.     Just then, Billy Clyde Wright walked by with his newspaper cart and it also failed the decibel test. I asked Billy Clyde to walk by again – this time dragging his cart on two wheels. And it STILL failed the test!     That afternoon, I asked Chief Popham and Lt. Merritt to go to Busbee’s and get Councilman Davis to witness this same test. After the “test” was completed, decibel reading was stopped for the rest of the year, thank goodness.     If (the suggested lower decibel level) had been enforced, everyone would have had to park outside the city limits and Bandera would have become a pedestrian city. No sales taxes would have been collected and property taxes would have gone through the roof.     We should always consider the outcome of what city council’s actions will be. Does anyone know the decibel reading for a lawn mower?     Linda Stein     Bandera

Likes new flag Published May 8, 2008    I would like to compliment the Medina Volunteer Fire Departments for the new burn ban sign they have placed in downtown Medina.     The thousands of tourists, visitors and bikers who come to Bandera County to enjoy the countryside have no idea what a faded, tattered red flag means. I have seen burn ban signs posted in other parts of Texas but not in Bandera or Uvalde counties.     I hope that other VFDs follow the lead of Medina VFD. Brush fire prevention is just as important as suppression.     FE Berner Sr.     Vanderpool

Great Bandera Goat Brouhaha Published May 8, 2008    Hmmmmmm …     I have, of late, been wondering, pondering and contemplating both happenings and non-happenings in the County of Bandera. Such as:     We have, in the one instance, persons with numerous charges of DWI, or possession of drugs who still wander our streets and roads freely. Some, by sheer happenstance, of course, are even alleged to be relatives of elected officials. We also have citizens who have been threatened – either overtly or otherwise – whose pleas for protection to law enforcement are breezily dismissed or placed in the NBD (no big deal) file.     But then, then comes the “Great Goat Caper.”     Dogs from a neighbor’s well-fenced yard allegedly kill a man’s goat. Simple, one might think – an apology from the dog owner (although the alleged killing was neither witnessed nor proven) and an offer of restitution. Instead, there were charges and counter-charges, finger waving and pointing and an on-going dispute between dog owner and goat owner. The full weight, it appeared, of officialdom led this incident to the courts, where it stands even today.     So, here is what puzzles me.     What is so important about the killing of a goat, whose market value surely is no more than $100, to bring about the Great Bandera Goat Brouhaha? A goat is a goat is a goat, right?     Ah, but perhaps there is more to this mystery. Perhaps this was a Special Goat! Many team goats are males – and many are alleged to be Masons.     Special goat?     Hmmmmmm …     Sam Moore     Utopia

Respect for the US Published May 8, 2008    I was born in 1935 during the Great Depression and grew up during World War II. I remember one thing quite clearly, being taught in school the “Pledge of Allegiance” and how to render respect to the American Flag.     Since that time, apparently the public school system does not teach our children and grandchildren this. In fact, (schools) belittle the sacrifices made by our service men and women from the beginning of this Great Nation to the present.     On Jan. 28, the president signed into law that explains how to honor the flag and National Anthem both by servicemen – including those on active duty, retirees and members of the reserves – and citizens of the United States.     All current and retired servicemen and women, as well as veterans who served honorably can salute. Citizens who have not served should place their right hand on their heart. If they are wearing a hat, they should remove it and place it on their left shoulder, which, in effect, places their hand over their hearts while the flag passes by or the National Anthem is being played. All non-US citizens should stand at attention until the flag passes by or the National Anthem is completed.     Three of our esteemed senators running for president were not present at the time of the vote. One refuses to acknowledge our flag and the National Anthem – as if he were not a US citizen; another wants to give this country over to the United Nations.     It seems to say all the sacrifices of those killed and wounded while fighting for and defending this county were in vain. God Bless America.     James H. Maxell Jr.     Bandera

Why the yellow fringe? Published May 8, 2008    As citizens, we should continue to experience a sense of pride when offices, boy and girl scouts and schools proudly display the American Flag.     Sometimes however, this wonderful event has been tainted by one small fact. Some of these flags have the yellow fringe around three sides. Decoration? This is quite possibly correct.     Many individuals remark that the yellow fringe should not be present because it defies flag etiquette as defined by Executive Order 10834: “The flag of the United States shall have thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate red and white and a union consisting of white stars on a field of blue.”     There is no provision for a yellow border on the civilian flag. Many other individuals state that the flag represents Maritime law, where citizen rights under the Constitution are suspended. This is a very interesting notion.     In 1990, the Army Regulation S840-10 allowed for a gold-fringed flag for display and ceremony. This border, however, appears to be allowed only in military ceremonies and, in this case, it seems that the fringe is simply decoration. Contrary to many beliefs, there does not seem to be any substance in the allegations that the gold-fringed flag redefines the legal system for Americans, military or civilians, in a courtroom for example.     However, a number of citizens still believe that the use of this Maritime flag changes the status of the citizen from sovereign to subject.     Sadly, with the passage of the Patriot Act and Protect America Act, where government control and wiretapping appears to have gotten out of hand, this fear that our constitutional rights are being eroded becomes understood. Since there is an increase in mistrust with our own government, maybe it would be best to simply fly the flag that President Dwight Eisenhower signed into law.     All Americans honor the red, white and blue, but as “One Nation,” we should understand that some are offended by the yellow, red, white and blue.     Dan Zavorka     Lakehills

Wheelchair unfriendly Published May 8, 2008    Bandera is a wonderful town but it certainly isn’t handicapped friendly.     People who are confined to wheelchairs and even some older people have trouble getting onto the sidewalks and into some stores.     For the elderly, the problems could be solved with a simple handrail, but wheelchairs need ramps.     Wheelchairs can only access the south side of the first shopping block on Main Street by going a half a block down Cypress and trying to maneuver the narrow strip between the posts and the building. If wheelchair-bound shoppers manage that, they still can’t get into the stores because even smallest thresholds are giant steps for wheelchairs.     Being handicapped is bad enough but not being able to eat at the OST is downright pitiful.     "So, let them come in from the Cedar end of the block,” you might say.     I say, “The terrain is too slanted and the turn around at Busbees is too tight for a person in a wheelchair to manipulate.”     It’s nice that Blue Gene’s built a ramp so the handicapped can sip a cold one. It would be even nicer if they could go next door to the Dollar Store for aspirin in case they overindulge.     When planning for the growth that’s coming to Bandera, maybe the planners should consider the handicapped people who are here already, as well as others who will surely come.     Peggy Huffman     Bandera

Looking for a witness Published May 1, 2008    My name is Judy Eyler. I am looking for anyone who may have witnessed a motorcycle crash that occurred between 3 pm and 4 pm, Friday, April 18, on Highway 127 between Sabinal and Concan.     My sister was killed and my brother-in-law is still recovering after surgery at University Hospital in San Antonio where he was air lifted Friday afternoon.     Although he doesn’t much about what happened, he believes another vehicle was involved in the accident. That vehicle might have been passing a second vehicle.     My family is searching for any witnesses who may have seen something that day. We don’t even know who made the 9-1-1 call. My husband found out about the accident at approximately 3:30 pm. We implore anyone with information about this accident to come forward.     People tell me to let it go but I just cannot do that. I would swear on a stack of Bibles that someone else was involved in another vehicle.     My email is JulEyl@aol.com.     Thank you.     Judy Eyler

Cautionary tail Published May 1, 2008    I always enjoy the humor and wisdom in “Ask Audrey.”     However, I would like to offer a word of caution regarding last week's story about the mushroom-eating dog.     Testing the safety of a wild mushroom via a domestic pet or a wild animal is never wise. Human and animal digestive systems vary greatly. Human food is not good for dogs, and we have all seen dogs eat things we would not dream of putting in our mouths!     Never ingest a wild mushroom that has not been clearly identified as safe by an expert in the field.     While there are many delicious wild mushrooms, if you pick the wrong one, a piece as small as a dime is capable of fatally destroying your liver.     Carolyn B. Edwards     Pipe Creek

Water tower Published April 24, 2008    Cream of wheat cereal, I like it. It's been around forever. Well at least since 1893. It has never been changed or altered. It's great just the way it is.     If the Bandera City Council had their way, they would probably abolish it within the city limits. Am I exaggerating? Well, maybe not. You decide.     In the nearly 12 years I've been here, a lot of things I like have changed – more street lights, less stars; less horses, more cars; less tolerance for country music, more complaining; more conformity, less uniqueness; less community spirit, more "me, me, me" attitudes.     Bandera is slowly losing the things that helped me decide to move here, to the Cowboy Capital of the World – a better place in a different time and space.     The water tower is one of those things that tugged at my heart as I drove towards Bandera for the first time. All my life I have watched movies that depicted some small town where everyone would have loved to have grown up. In those towns, there was usually a water tower that somehow became part of a plot to bring the town together. It served as a rallying point, a symbol of the residents' devotion to each other; an icon of how the town felt about its citizens, young and old; a proud vision of the past to someone coming back home long after high school.     If the city council has its way, however, that will change. Bandera's water tower is going to get a new paint job, minus the words "Bulldogs State Champions 2002."     I don't care if (the fame) was for 15 minutes or only one year. In the State of Texas, being state football champs makes you immortal. The Bulldogs had their 15 minutes of fame, and as a community, we need to brag about it from the highest point in Bandera. Or, will one more thing that I love about Bandera be lost forever?     Viva la difference! We need to stop making Bandera a cookie cutter copy of every other small town in Texas. We need our own ideas to flourish. Exaggerate Bandera's unique qualities. Don't reshape them to match another community's ideas.     So what if Devine has a billboard?     Bandera's Bulldogs got a water tower. How cool is that?     Ed Longhurst     Bandera

Kudos for water coverage Published April 24, 2008    Ms. Pannebaker offered two well-written and thorough articles in the Thursday, April 17, edition of the Bandera County Courier.     Although I'm not sure if all that many residents are fired up about aquifer depletion, your articles will certainly help get them interested.     Your synopsis of what happened at the GMA 9 meeting in Boerne was faultless – keep up the good work.     Dick Connors     BCRAGD director     Bandera

I feel like a winner Published April 3, 2008    I recently had the great pleasure of running for the Republican nomination for Judge of the 216th District Court. This “race” was run over most of January and February concluding with Election Day on March 4.     Although I did not “win,” nevertheless, I feel like a winner. Campaigning took me; my dear wife, Elizabeth; and my supporters over the entire district many times, installing and removing and reinstalling countless signs; meeting and speaking with voters in 14 separate candidate forum-type debates; attending seven Rotary Club meetings, three Chambers of Commerce banquets, six Republican Women’s meetings, four Republican Club meetings and six “meet and greets” – two in Fredericksburg and Bandera, as well as ones in Hunt and Kerrville. In addition, we attended numerous pancake suppers, basketball games and all manner of community events.     Throughout all of this “running,” we found the people of the Texas Hill Country and the voters in the 216th District to be the most kind, the most considerate, the most responsible and the most patriotic citizens that we have ever encountered.     I was truly humbled and honored just to have been considered to serve as your judge.     My gratitude goes out to everyone for your participation in our shared Great American Experience of democracy; and May God bless the United States of America, the Lone Star State and the Texas Hill Country – home of the most blessed people on the face of the earth.     Joe M. Davis     Boerne

It takes a village Published April 3, 2008    Hillary Clinton claims to have written the book, “It Takes a Village.”     There is a website that indicates a different author. The URL is: www.h-net.org/~africa/threads/village.html, and the following is an excerpt from that website:     Date: Thu, 25 Jan 1996     From: Christopher P Koch     I was very surprised yesterday when I saw Hillary’s book. “It Takes a Village” by Jane Cowen-Fletcher (Scholastic Inc., New York) is the 1995 winner of the African Studies Association Trull Foundation Children’s Book Award in the Elementary Category. It is a wonderful book about raising children in an African village.     (If this is true) how can Hillary claim to be the author?     Do we really want someone that dishonest to lead our country?     Here is one last thought. She claims that her eight years in the White House married to the then-president qualifies her to be president – and from Day One.     I know a woman who has been married – for more than eight years – to a brain surgeon. Does this qualify her to perform brain surgery?     Whoever is your preference – please vote! Your vote does count.     (Voting) is not only your right – it is your responsibility.     DJ Henson     Bandera

Understanding Texas Published March 27, 2008    My name is Joey Ballard. I am doing a state report on Texas.     I would like you to publish this letter in your paper so your readers could send me things that would help me understand Texas some more.     They can email me at pslab@evansvilledayschool.org. If they have items to mail me, please send them to:     Joey Ballard     Evansville Day School     3400 North Green River Road     Evansville, IN 47715     Thank you.     Joey Ballard     Evansville, Indiana

Signals? Published March 20, 2008    For many years, I have pondered writing a letter to the editor on this issue, which is a pet peeve of mine.     At an early age, young drivers are eager to take defensive driving to obtain their driver’s licenses. One very important lesson everyone learns is to use turn signals.     After driving many years, I always use my turn signal. However, other drivers – and you know who you are – do not use their turn signal.     My question to you is, do you really think I can read your mind regarding the way you plan to turn? We all learn this important lesson before obtaining our driver’s licenses, and it’s the law.     I would really like to see all Bandera County motorists obey the law and use their turn signals. That way I won’t have to try and read your mind as to which way you will be turning. Accidents will be avoided.     Thank you for letting me get a pet peeve off my chest – after all these years.     Miss Teich     Bandera

Dumping on Elm Pass Road Published Feb. 21, 2008    Mr. Beaucham contacted me regarding possible illegal dumping on Elm Pass Road.     I contacted the county road superintendent the next day and the dumping was stopped immediately. In turn, the county road superintendent has contacted Mr. Beaucham several times.     Yes, a contractor with the Texas Department of Transportation had dumped on county property without permission. The county road superintendent has been in close contact with TxDOT regarding this matter. At the request of the road superintendent, TxDOT has taken soil samples. As soon as the test samples return, TxDOT employees will remove soil and clean up the area accordingly.     To say that no one has responded is not true. This problem is close to a resolution and should be settled shortly.     Richard Keese     Precinct 3 Commissioner

Kaiser answers Reese questions Published Feb. 21, 2008    (Editor’s note: Usually the Bandera County Courier does not print letters or editorials about political candidates after early voting begins. However, we extended Frances Kaiser, candidate for Bandera County Sheriff, space to answer questions posed by Ben Reese in the Feb. 14 edition of the Courier.)     Kaiser prefaced her answers with this observation: “Although I have serious reservations about Ben Reese being a real person, I have no problem answering the questions that were presented.”     • I was elected for three terms as sheriff of Kerr County and served two full terms. Late into my third term, health issues arose. It has been stated that I did not have cancer – which is not true. I was diagnosed with cancer, and, for that reason, I believed it was in my best interest to retire. Incidentally, I have been cancer-free for the past 14 years and I have a health check-up every 12 months. I am a cancer survivor!     • I became a candidate for commissioner in Kerr County after my health issues were resolved.     • I resigned as Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace in Bandera County to take an extended vacation with my family. This saved the taxpayers money as they did not have to pay my salary. Additionally, I had no plans to run for another term as justice of the peace.     • I am not 68 years old – and it should not matter if I were. I want to be sheriff in Bandera County because I have the law enforcement experience, administrative ability and leadership qualities to organize the sheriff’s department. I care about Bandera County. I am a native of and taxpayer in this county. Because my expertise is in law enforcement, I harbor no desire to run for county judge or any other elected office for that matter. In a meeting held at his campaign headquarters on Feb. 8, Weldon Tucker stated that I would resign within a year if I were elected sheriff to run for county judge. At this same meeting, several other untrue and negative statements were made, apparently to start rumors about me. I believe the voters in this county are smarter than to fall for those kind of tactics.     • Since I am the oldest of 10 children, I cannot answer for some of my siblings; however, everyone has the right to voice their opinions and to vote for whomever they choose. Votes should be cast on the qualifications of the candidates.     • When I was elected sheriff in Kerr County, the drug problem was bad. At no cost to taxpayers, I organized a topnotch drug task force, which included a drug dog. We successfully took down several major drug dealers, which curtailed the drug problem in Kerr County while I was sheriff. As Bandera County Sheriff, my department and I will work diligently to control the drug problem all year round.     • I have never claimed “the sheriff’s assault on drugs was because it is campaign season.” However, lately it seems, Sheriff Tucker or someone in his organization is quick to alert the news media every time they serve a drug search warrant, whether it is major or minor. The very serious drug problem in Bandera County needs to be addressed daily – and needs to result in successful dispositions. With my training, organizational skills and law enforcement knowledge, I will aggressively address Bandera County’s drug problems, including establishing drug education programs for our youth. In addition, I will ensure a professional, efficiently operated jail and sheriff’s department will be maintained.

Shame on elected officials Published Feb. 14, 2008    To T. Abbott, well said.     To the rest of Bandera County, sorry, but I just can't let this go un-written or unsaid. Four years ago, when my granddaughter, Kayle Shackelford, was 15, she was nearly killed in a wreck. At the scene of the wreck, the young man driving (the other vehicle) refused a breathalyzer test. He was handcuffed and placed in the back of an officer's patrol car. When the young man’s family arrived, they claimed he was hurt and needed to go to a hospital. He was loaded in an ambulance and transported to the hospital.     Funny thing, though, he never checked into the hospital. Thus, no blood alcohol test was performed.     Fast forward one year.     After six surgeries for Kayle, the young man being arrested five more times and our family being told by (County Attorney Kerry) Schneider, “she didn't work just for the Shackelford family,” the young man came to trial. What does he get? A $200 fine and six months probation for reckless driving.     Do you have any idea what it did to Kayle and her family when the “running over the dog on purpose” story came out? Then to read the plea bargain offered by Schneider?     We were devastated that the loss of a dog generated more response and income than the maiming of a child by a drunk driver.     Oh yeah, we clearly understood what Schneider said when we were told she could only prosecute what the officers could prove. But, you'd think if there had been enough evidence at the scene for an officer to request a breathalyzer, then handcuff and place an individual in the back of a patrol car, there would be enough evidence to prosecute for more than simply reckless driving?     Since then, our Kayle has had two more surgeries and knows full well she will never have full use of her right arm. She will always have to wear a compression garment and her lower right arm will always look like it was bitten by a shark.     She also now knows that a goat and its owner gets better protection and more consideration from the current law and judicial system in Bandera County than a drunk driver victim.     We should all be ashamed this child was so badly failed by the very people we elect.     Paula M. Adams     Bandera

Questions to Kaiser Published Feb. 14, 2008    Why has no one asked Frances Kaiser, candidate for sheriff of Bandera County, the following important questions?     They are all known facts about her, yet neither newspaper seems to have the courage to ask Frances Kaiser these questions:     • Why did you quit your elected position as sheriff of Kerr County before your term expired?     • If you quit you position as sheriff of Kerr County prior to the end of your term for health reasons – either yours or that of a family member – what is the status of your or their health today?     • Isn't it true that after you resigned your elected position as Kerr County Sheriff – before your term was completed – you were a candidate for county commissioner in Kerr County? If so, this would seem to make the health issue claim questionable.     • Why did you resign your position as Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 in Bandera County prior to the end of your term?     • At your age, reported to be 68, why do you want to be Bandera County Sheriff, other than the rumor you intend to run for county judge when Judge Richard Evans retires? If you were elected sheriff of Bandera County, you would have to resign again an elected position to become county judge.     • Are the majority of your siblings and other family members campaigning against you and for the incumbent?     • The drug problem in Kerr County was rampant when you were sheriff there. Can you tell us what you did or didn't do to stern the problem?     • You claim that Sheriff Tucker's assault on drugs in Bandera County is because it is campaigning season. Why do you suggest this?     Ben Reese     Bandera     (Editor’s note: For the record, the Bandera County Courier did not sponsor a candidates’ debate this political season and, therefore, did not ask any candidate any questions.)

Dumping Published Feb. 14, 2008    The road crew working on Highway 173 are dumping dirt, rocks and caliche in the Elmwood Estates within two- or three-hundred feet from our well. The dirt is from the side of the highway and I am sure it contains a lot of oil, rubber and other chemicals from passing trucks and cars. Also, rocks and caliche are being spilled on the road because they’re not covered. Motorists have also been speeding up and down residential streets.     I have complained to the sheriff’s office and precinct commissioner, but to no avail. I didn’t even get a response.     When election time comes, the people in this subdivision may not be voting for them.     Joe Beauchamp     Bandera

The truth about Bandera GOP Published Feb. 7, 2008    Over the last few weeks, allegations of improper conduct on the part of the Bandera County GOP and the Bandera County Republican Women have come to my attention. I have investigated these allegations and feel that it is my duty to share my findings.     • The County Chair is endorsing candidates in the primary.     I found no evidence that Connie Taylor, GOP county chairman, is endorsing or supporting any candidates in the GOP primary. To the contrary, because of the turmoil of the last election, Connie is avoiding even the hint of supporting any candidate – to the extent that her husband is gun-shy about expressing his opinions, one on one, with anyone else.     • The Republican County Chairman is actively working for one candidate in a contested primary.     Mrs. Taylor has not endorsed or worked on any campaigns in this primary season. The former county chairman serves as campaign manager for Sheriff Weldon Tucker. As far as I know, prior service as a county chairman does not prohibit one from expressing constitutionally guaranteed free speech rights.     • The Republican County Chairman and the BCRW have (endorsed) a slate of candidates in the primary election.     Membership in BCRW is open to all Republican women, regardless of whom they support. Members of the BCRW are activists, so individually they support candidates, serve on steering committees and work to get the strongest Republican candidates elected. Membership in the club does not prohibit a member from legally expressing her opinions and only two leadership positions are prohibited from primary activities according to the by-laws. I have personally attended meetings and found that most of the women had opinions, but there is no organized slate of candidates to support.     • The Bandera County GOP Headquarters allows advertising from only one candidate.     At this time the Bandera County GOP does not have a headquarters. I am sure that the party will try to rent space before the General Election in November. The building on Main Street that the Bandera GOP used as a headquarters in 2006 is the campaign headquarters of a candidate in a contested race. All use and cost of the building is controlled and paid by the candidate.     • A board member of the Bandera County Republican Women is illegally working on a candidate's campaign in a contested primary.     This investigation was easy because the board member in question is my wife, Jody. Her position in the BCRW is one that is not prohibited by the by-laws from campaigning for a candidate in the primary. Jody serves on the steering committee for one candidate and is active in at least three other campaigns. For a candidate for a position of public trust to threaten to sue over Jody's legal participation in the political process bothers me greatly.     After all the turmoil in 2006, due to the Bandera GOP Executive Committee's choice for the GOP candidate for the unexpired sheriff's term, I expected a push for changes in the Executive Committee. Alas, Connie Taylor is the only candidate to file for Republican County Chairman and all precinct chairmen are unopposed on the March ballot. It appears it is easier to criticize than to perform.     Mrs. Taylor is doing a good job in fulfilling her very demanding duties as county chairman, and I believe that the personal attacks on her are completely unjustified.     Darrel Brown     State Republican Executive Committeeman, Senate District 19     Bandera

Lest You Forget! Published Jan. 31, 2008    Bandera County needs a good cleaning out and it should start with the county courthouse.     The “You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours,” good-ole-boy rubbin’ of the elbows are archaic and imprudent edicts, and have no place in a 21st century fair and honest judicial system. Laws are to be upheld without waver by all those whom we entrust into office, and not abused in the name of “who ya know and how deep are your pockets?”     Lest you forget, a seat of honor held by any official is a privilege entrusted by the taxpayers – not a throne to exploit an arrogant warped sense of self-righteousness. This goes to all existing and future officials of Bandera County. Be reminded. You answer to all citizens – all taxpayers – and are to fairly, without bias and without prejudice, abide by and uphold all local, state and federal laws.     Lest you forget, to all of those involved in the shameful killing of seven dogs, including two puppies that were not allowed a voice of innocence and never proven to be vicious or undeserving of life, you are accountable and are to be subject to the same scrutiny for your actions, behavior and decisions as anyone else, if not more so.     If there is anyone who takes offense to this, then take notice - sometimes the truth hurts.     Lest you forget, to admittedly and willfully shoot and kill any animal across private property fence line incurs felonies including, but not limited to, willful trespassing with a firearm, willful destruction of private property, willful endangerment to others on said property and willful cruelty to animals and are all actions against the law everywhere – and that includes Bandera County.     Individuals who take the law into their own hands and are allowed to manipulate the players of the judicial system to their favor are a danger to society and should be treated as such.     Lest we all forget, it is a very sad day when any judicial system accuses, arrests, confines, condemns and executes without proof of guilt, and with prejudice and malice for personal gain!     T. Abbott     Bandera County

Why hold a ‘trial’? Published Jan. 31, 2008    Let’s see if I’ve got this right.     You can (shoot a gun across the fence line of) anyone’s private property and kill their dog(s), and it’s perfectly legal as long as you “claim” said dog(s) killed your goat(s).     Hmmmm …     In May, local papers reported a man ran over a dog on a public roadway in the county. The owner of the dog claimed the man driving the vehicle ran over the dog on purpose. This claim caused our illustrious county attorney to swing into action!! In fact, it was reported in the May 16 and 17 editions of local newspapers that the man accused of “running over the dog on purpose” was charged and would be offered a plea bargain by our county attorney, Kerry Schneider.     This plea bargain included an $800 fine, court costs amounting to $219 and a year's suspended jail time – as well as 12 months probation at the cost of $40 per month.     The papers also reported that in a letter to the accused dog killer, Schneider wrote, “You should note that this offer will expire April 30, at 5 pm, and subsequent plea offers will carry stiffer penalties.”     So, what is the lesson here?     If you want to kill a dog, don’t run over it, claim it killed a goat and go to the dog owner’s house and shoot the dog?     Or, is it if you own a dog that has been killed, claim the dog’s killer ran over it on purpose?     Are you as confused as I am?     Well, to tell the truth, I’m more embarrassed than confused when I see things like these reported in our local papers – embarrassed by our county attorney and whoever this judge was who presided over this case.     Why did he even bother to hold a “trial” when he had obviously already made up his mind to destroy the dogs?     Oh, I forgot. He wanted to teach a Yankee woman lawyer a lesson.     I support Marlene Heavner, Carole Boyd and the Cowboy Capital Pet Assistance League. But I would also be willing to donate to a fund to help Mr. Gene Carnes care for his injured goat since he “couldn't afford” veterinary care. That is, if any one wants to start one for him.     Paula M. Adams     Bandera

Case closed? Published Jan. 31, 2008    To Judge Richard Evans, Judge Charles Sherrill, Sheriff Weldon Tucker, County Attorney Kerry Schneider, six Bandera County deputies, one Bandera County jail administrator, 216th Assistant District Attorney Mark Shurley and the local newspaper that would not even print the story about the recent destruction of the three remaining dogs that Mr. Carnes didn't kill outright in his most recent dog shooting, please read the following:     “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man.” - Mahatma Gandhi (1869 - 1948).     As to abovementioned “show of force,” shouldn't we, as a county, demand that all DWI (driving while intoxicated) and BWI (boating while intoxicated) cases be handled as such and not turned into obstructing public roadways and obstructing public waterways?     If we can so aggressively prosecute and attack, in court, three dogs that allegedly attacked a goat, why can't we get the drunk drivers off our lake and roadways?     Too bad the dogs weren't drunk during their alleged goat attack. I believe it is possible they would have received deferred adjudication or perhaps even been put on probation.     Roger Sullivan.     Pipe Creek

BISD ‘Birthday Bashes’ Published Jan. 31, 2008    Recently, my daughter brought home a flyer from the school food service that states, "Want to have a Pizza Party at school? Give your child a Birthday Bash the whole town will be talkin' about."     The flyer then goes on to say prices are based on the students' meal status.     So, does that mean we, as taxpayers, are paying for birthday parties at school? The meal even includes party favors and a card.     Is it time for BISD to reconsider its contract with the food service provider?     Fredericksburg ISD, for example, now handles its own food service. Maybe after 20 years, BISD can manage its own food service also.     Sheila Zavorka     Lakehills

Vote to support Becky Published Jan. 31, 2008    The Bandera Community Foundation would like to congratulate Becky Braun, sister of Karon Byrd, for being nominated for two Christian music awards by the King Country Agape Fest.     Her nominations include Female Horizon, upcoming new singer; and Female Songwriter.     For the last two years, Becky organized our Sunday Gospel Music at Celebrate Bandera, and now's our chance to do something nice for her.     Let's help Becky win these awards! All you have to do is go to www.kingcountryagapefest.com, register your information and you’ll receive a ballot to vote in both categories.     Thank you Becky and good luck! And – thank you Bandera for voting.     Lanette Pennell     Bandera Community Foundation     Host of Celebrate Bandera

Growth Hitting Bandera? Published Jan. 24, 2008    Can you believe all the traffic? How about all the new subdivisions?     Let's take a look at what this means for the city of Bandera.     First of all, more people mean bigger schools, higher taxes, need for more law enforcement and so on.     But are we ready? The people who want more growth need to know that more revenue also means we must furnish more services - and more services cost money. The City of Bandera does not even employ a code enforcement officer.     So, all the money we've put out for ordinances and re-codifying existing ordinances is for what? Do we only enforce the ordinances we want to? I don't think so. I believe that is illegal.     In my opinion, we should have a city inspector-code enforcement officer immediately. And perhaps we should hire someone not connected to city hall or the county. Maybe someone is out there with real experience. It's costing over $8,000 to re-codify the ordinances, and for what? Is this just "in case?" To say we cannot afford to hire someone is saying we can't afford to grow.     Our infrastructure needs a lot of work. More revenue is great if you have something to sell. You can't just keep punching holes every five or so acres and expect water to keep flowing. We need to be aware of the severe water shortages in Texas and other states. Did you ever look around you at all the apartments, malls, homes and businesses and think "I wonder how many washing machines, toilets, showers, car washes, pools and so on are being used just at that one minute?" It is mind boggling.     People, wake up! Plan ahead. This is why we need our planning and zoning commission and city inspector. We should also insist that the person or people signing off on permits be held accountable.     City council should be informed of any and all issues concerning the city - before, not after, the fact.     Elections are coming up. Have you ever attended a city council meeting? Do you know who you are voting for or even why? Are you aware of the issues facing the city and the county?     In any election, please educate yourself on the issues and particularly where the candidates stand on these issues. Just because you know or like someone doesn't always mean you feel the same way about what affects you and your city or county.     Rilla Stephens     Bandera

Where is it? Published Jan. 24, 2008    Approximately eight years ago, parents lost a child and the Lakehills community also suffered a loss.     Out of a tragic accident an idea was born, the Ronnie Ray Park. Since the land was donated by the parents, and the community contributed to a trust fund at that time, where is the park?     There is a sign on the corner of Elmhurst and Park Road 37.     I was just wondering?     Judy Clark     Lakehills

The Value of an Animal Published Jan. 17, 2008    Some people see value in a piece of rusty tin, some people gold. What is the value of an animal? Any animal?     When I see a new born calf my heart smiles. When I see an eagle fly my heart soars. What is it to love an animal? To watch the beauty of two blackbucks change their colors while maturing into adulthood. To raise two baby goats and give them a name because they mean more to you than market value. To have little kitties that snub you one minute and can’t get enough of you the next, making you laugh at every turn.     What is it to have the unconditional love and gratitude of a dog? To feel the heart-gripping grief when he’s no longer around to greet you at the gate or ride in the front seat of your truck. To visit his grave every day so you can have a conversation with your best friend.     Who is to say one animal has more value than another?     It would appear one rancher in Bandera County has taken it upon himself to make that decision on behalf of all mankind. Allegedly he willfully leaned over CCPAL private property fence line and shot and killed two of their dogs with a .22 rifle. Last heard, trespassing with a firearm was illegal. And, last heard, innocent before proven guilty was the law. He reportedly speaks with a mixed tongue accusing these dogs of attacking either a goat or goats market valuing either $30 or $100. Who knows the truth with the contradiction in his words?     In a third hearing held in Bandera on Friday, Jan. 11, at 9 am, the Cowboy Capital Pet Assistance League (CCPAL) literally fought for the lives of three more dogs living on another neighboring property.     This same rancher has accused them of also attacking his goats. He rigorously insisted these three be euthanized. He has additionally shot and killed two more dogs, and a sixth dog is missing and presumed dead.     The question becomes – when will the rancher be made to answer for his actions?     Maybe he has never known what it is like to call an animal friend. Who knows, and now with so much irreparable harm done, who cares? I can guarantee the dogs care. And maybe more of us need to help give a voice to those who can not speak for themselves.     What is the value of an animal? Perhaps that should only be defined by the heart of a man who possesses a higher understanding, realizing and respecting God’s dominion and purpose of all creatures.     Lakota Abbott     San Antonio     (Editor’s note: This letter was written prior to the hearing, which culminated in the euthanization of the three dogs mentioned in this letter.)

Open meeting violation? Published Jan. 10, 2008    After reading the Courier's Dec. 20 article about the vote distribution for directors on the board of the Central Appraisal District, I cannot believe (Precinct 2) Commissioner (Bobby) Harris was the only person to question the process.     Without any discussion, Precinct 3 Commissioner Richard Keese named the nominees individually, along with the votes each had received. Keese then made a motion to distribute the votes as he just read and Precinct 4 Commissioner Doug King seconded the motion — again without any court discussion.     I wonder, did Commissioner Keese came up with the distribution by himself? The numbers he read had to be corrected because they did not total the total number to be cast by the court. This begs the question: was there some kind of secret meeting among the commissioners and judge — which excluded Commissioner Harris — to decide this vote?     Why would two commissioners and the judge just sit there and allow Commissioner Keese to spoon-feed them the vote totals?     Either there was a meeting, which is a violation of the Open Meetings Act, or Precinct 1 (Bruce) Commissioner Eliker, Precinct 4 Commissioner King and Judge Evans didn't care enough to even get involved or, for that matter, to question how the process going on in this court for at least 11 years, according to Judge Evans, was conducted.     Judge Evans said he "honestly" didn't know what process was used to distribute the vote and suggested asking Commissioner Keese, who made the motion. He thought dividing the votes equally among the commissioners — as per Commissioner Harris' idea of fairness — might not be legal. Chief Appraiser Ed Barns assured the court it was legal.     The judge said he was sure some process was used to distribute the vote, but added, "I can't see it. There didn't seem to be any rhyme or reason for it."     Now is the time to ask Commissioner Keese where and how he arrived at the vote distribution.     Or, better yet, how about asking County Attorney (Kerry) Schneider to investigate this apparent violation of the Open Meetings Act.     Let's get the total facts on the table now.     Roger Sullivan     Pipe Creek

The 'new' light bulb — MegaLight Published Jan. 10, 2008    Today we went to the Bandera Electric Cooperative to pay our electric bill and were surprised to be given a nice little gift — a new kind of light bulb, the MegaLight Bulb.     The box says that this is much better than the old-fashioned ones that came from Thomas Edison.     But the box also says that this light bulb cannot be used with dimmer switches, automatic timers or for outdoor or porch lights that are exposed to the weather.     So, what do we use for these purposes after 2012, the year that the government has chosen to outlaw our current Thomas Edison light bulbs?     The counter-girl at BEC said that these new bulbs are "earth friendly."     The box says that the new light bulb "Contains Mercury." The box also says to "Dispose according to local, state or federal laws." They need to be disposed of properly and not thrown out with the regular trash.     How many people will abide by that rule? So, how will all of this mercury affect our earth? I think — not too friendly.     Oh, one final note — the box also says these light bulbs are "Made in China."     Nuff said?     Dee Maxwell     Bandera

CCPAL — information & clarification Published Jan. 10, 2008    This informational letter will hopefully clear up some of the confusion regarding the relationship between Bandera County Animal Control and the Cowboy Capital Pet Assistance League, Inc., also know as CCPAL.     Even though they share the same facility at 3012 Highway 16 North, these are two separate entities. CCPAL volunteers are at the center approximately four hours a day. Otherwise, the center is left unattended other than when Bandera County brings animals into the facility.     When the animal control officer or any deputy with the Bandera County Sheriff's Office transports an animal to the center on Highway 16 North, the animal is considered impounded, meaning the animal is under the ownership of Bandera County.     In most cases, an animal without identification is impounded for a period of three days. CCPAL is compensated at $3 per day for the three-day period. The $3 pays for the animal's care, which includes kennel cleaning, feeding, watering and exercising. In addition, every animal that enters the facility is vaccinated against parvo, distemper and kennel cough, as well as being dewormed. This prevents diseases being transferred to current four-legged "inmates" at the center.     If an identified animal is impounded and the owner can be found, CCPAL is compensated by Bandera County for five days. However, an owner can only retrieve his animal after paying a fine at the BCSO.     Any animal not claimed by its owner becomes the responsibility of CCPAL. Volunteers continue to care for the animal while preparing it for adoption. To provide animals with the best care possible, CCPAL depends entirely on donations.     In some cases, an animal will remain the property of Bandera County beyond the usual three- or five-day waiting period. Usually this occurs if a hearing must be scheduled to determine an animal's fate. Regarding to the incident to which Robert Ahrens referred in his Jan. 2 Letter to the Editor of the Bandera Bulletin, the animal control officer brought four dogs to the center around 8:30 pm on a Thursday.     He placed the animals in two kennels with a placard marking them as "impounded," which informed CCPAL volunteers the dogs were the property of Bandera County and not available for adoption.     Had the animal control officer noticed any of the animals were hurt or injured, he would have contacted his supervisor for permission to have the injured animal treated by a veterinarian.     I have observed the animal control officer work with animals he has brought in and he seems to be a very caring man. I do not believe he would have left an injured animal at the center without seeking aid.     On Friday, volunteers fed the dogs and cleaned the kennels. At that point, however, they had no way of knowing why the dogs had been impounded. If volunteers had suspected the dogs were hurt, they would have informed CCPAL Director Marlene Heavner, who would have ensured the injured dogs received proper care.     When the volunteers arrived on Saturday, they found one of the impounded dogs lying in a pool of blood. The dog was dead. This was the first time any blood had been observed in the kennels.     CCPAL volunteers are dedicated and responsible citizens who donate their time and energy willingly to care for other people's animals. Each volunteer feels the pressure, pain and anguish when animals must pay with their lives for the malfunctions of humans who had tried to care for them, but failed.     Our volunteers are consumed with the desire to rehabilitate and find forever homes for each animal who cannot speak for itself.     Marilyn Stone     Bandera

A laff a week Published Jan. 3, 2008    Mikie Baker's column makes me laugh every week. What a great addition to the paper!     Perry Lane     Bandera