its almost here

The movie, "Truth Be Tolled" was shown at San Antonio's Palladium Theater on October 30^th.It was excellent and enlightening; demonstrating how our state government could maintain and further develop a first class road system here in Texas - if it choose to do so. The 90 minute film also was good as it explained the issues in understandable terms.

We have purchased two copies of the video to share with Republican and Democratic groups here in District 73. If you have a group you want to see this film, please contact me or go to www.truthbetolled.com to order one for $10.

TURF and the San Antonio Toll Party have been instrumental in fighting the taking of our public roads and converting them to toll roads. They are also active in fighting the Trans Texas Corridor. I have marched, testified and spoken against these TxDOT plans from the beginning. And I have written about my testimony at the Sunset Commission Hearings regarding TxDOT and it's restructuring. Terri Hall, founder of these groups is to be congratulated on her vision and tenacity. Our government is to represent the needs and wants of the people. The people are united against these abuses of power. TxDOT and our state legislature must listen.

Another very important event has occurred. On October 20^th, Jacobs Well in Wimberley went dry. This is the second time that this has happened since the disastrous drought of the 1950's when it continued flowing. We must take action to protect and preserve our water. We can no longer wait – or worse yet, turn a blind eye to those interests who represent unfettered development over the Aquifers and recharge zones. We must respect nature – and work with it – without that goal, they day will soon come when our property values will drop, our businesses close and life as we know it in the hill country will cease. As the "canary in the coalmine", the stoppage of Jacobs Well must be noted and used as a catalyst for preservation and action regarding our water supply.

On a happier note – The Hunters Barbeque in Bandera County and sponsored by the Bandera Chamber of Commerce, was held Friday night at the park. They used a clever twist on the BBQ supper idea – They had all the food prepackaged – no flies, possibility of contamination or waiting in lines. And the food was hot – and - outstanding. The silent auction and vendors all displayed great items. – The live auctioneer did a great job. Coming from a family of auctioneers, and having held a license myself, it is always fun to hear good auctioneers. Thanks to Bandera's Chamber event, Robbi and I ""won" stays at Bandera lodgings – to use after the election. Relaxing a bit is not a bad idea.

St Andrew's Lutheran Church near Startzville, in Comal County held their holiday fair on Saturday. With lunch, holiday items to purchase and silent and live auctions, we managed to find some great gifts. We always are welcomed and enjoy spending time at St. Andrew's. We also found that they sponsor Angel Food Ministries in our area. Anyone needing a hand with groceries is invited to contact the church for monthly packages. This ministry is an outranking effort to be certain that people who request help receive it without paperwork, qualifying or being listed in any official way.

"Art Past Dark" in Fredericksburg began last weekend and is continuing through next weekend (November 9^th). It is a yearly event worth noting as it is designed to highlight outstanding visual artists in the area.

Robbi and I joined many of the artists and Gillespie County residents at their Red, White and Blue Opening party at the Fredericksburg Hanger Hotel. Held right after Halloween, many came festively dressed in red, white and blue. Rosemary Estaban even came dressed as Uncle Sam. Featuring a silent auction, live music and great food, the pre-election party had ballot boxes marked Obama, McCain and Neither of the Above. Dollars counted as votes and all the proceeds of the event are scheduled to go to children's education in Gillespie County. More information can be found at www.artpastdark.com.

Along with many terrific Boone volunteers, I am spending a lot of time on the streets – waving to motorists, talking with passersby and having a great time visiting with folks. If votes can be judged by thumbs up, honking and smiles, we are in good shape.

This certainly is an interesting year to be running for public office in HD 73. Tomorrow will tell the tale. I invite anyone reading this to participate tomorrow by voting and then by heading to a precinct area and waving the Boone "signs already there - to help remind our Republican friends to cross over (as many are doing) while in the voting booth.

It has been a long race to save our Hill Country, preserve our water and facilitate our public education system. I am very grateful to the wonderful volunteers who have worked tirelessly on behalf of my candidacy. This is truly a grassroots effort and while thank you seems inadequate it is offered with heartfelt gratitude.

No time off for Boone

The candidate forums may have ended, but Daniel Boone takes no breaks.

In a drive around New Braunfels Wednesday, Boone could be seen waving to motorists, and talking with supporters and potential supporters outside the coffee shop on the square. This is a dedicated man with endless energy. The happy sight of the smiling candidate mingling with the public did my heart good, and it was just another sign that this is a tireless candidate who will be a tireless worker once he has an office in Austin.

In recent weeks, we've seen the opposition's financial support coming from all sorts of special interest groups, from oil companies to quarry interests. This kind of money provides clear evidence about those whom would be represented in Austin if Boone's opponent were to be elected. Voters continue to hear the same rhetoric from Miller at every candidate forum, not the clear information and analysis of problems that we want to hear from our candidates.

Boone's grass roots efforts and his willingness to openly address issues and questions at every debate are clear evidence that we, the residents of the Texas Hill Country, will be represented in Austin. Dan isn't going to Austin to represent the oil companies or the quarries -- or the insurance industry. He's headed to Austin to do good work for good people.

Mr. Boone, thank you for your tireless efforts on our behalf. And yes, I proudly voted early for you!

Eileen Pace Fitzsimmons

Busy grass roots week - WHEW!

This was the week without rest. Dan started in Bandera, where he led a grass-roots block-walking tour, knocking on doors and meeting dozens of residents. Later, Boone met with customers at popular local restaurants: Turks Deli in Lake Hills, where owner Gwen Smith generously hosted voters who wanted to ask questions of Boone; and Brick’s River Café on the Medina River, where Boone was warmly welcomed to speak with local residents. Like Dan always says, local government is about the people who live here.

Thanks to both Gwen and Brick. Check out their restaurant websites and go have lunch with them! www.turksdeli.com and www.bricksrivercafe.com.

In Bulverde, Dan was invited to speak to the city council Tuesday. He addressed local issues including the proposed toll road, education, and water issues. Another issue Dan says we have to tackle, is how to get the burden of school funding off the backs of property owners. "We must find alternative ways to fund our schools."

Last Sunday, September 21, more than 300 voters turned out to hear Boone and other Democratic candidates at a rally in Landa Park. Boone joined representatives for presidential candidate Barack Obama and U.S. Senate candidate Rick Noriega, who was away with his National Guard unit. Also joining the rally were Comal County Commissioners Court candidates Larry Horton and Ramon Chapa, Jr. and numerous other democratic candidates. Boone told attendees that he wants to protect the Texas Hill Country by giving county governments more power to guide growth and manage water and other resources.

Dan is on top of issues concerning New Braunfels citizens. He shares their concerns about quarries, the proposed outer loop, water resources, and educational issues, Boone said, “I believe elected officials should represent the people they serve, not special interests. I can best carry your voice to Austin by personally listening to your concerns.”

What a week Dan! You go boy!

Block walking schedule

Block Walking for Dan scheduled so far:
Sep 16, 1–5 P.M. New Braunfels - Meet at The DoCC's Office (Sandwiches available at noon)
Sep 17, 9 A.M.–12 Noon - New Braunfels
Sep 23, 2–5 P.M. - Bulverde
Volunteers are needed, Contact the DoCC office