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

On the campaign trail

A great Democratic Rally was held on Saturday at a beautiful home on the banks of the Guadalupe River outside New Braunfels. Speakers included Barbara Ann Radnofsky, Jim Jordan candidate for Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court, Judy Hall, speaking for Senator Obama, Dan Grant who spoke for Rep. Noriega, running for the US Senate, and me. A large crowd enjoyed the view, live music good food and listening to outstanding speakers.

The bracken VFW Potato Pancake benefit was a great event hosting lots of enthusiastic potato pancake and applesauce lovers. Happy folks, friendly and raising money for the fire department – we all had a good time together. It is always a treat to be in the lovely new Garden Ridge Municipal building. One neat thing – outside under the sunshade – was a man making homemade ice cream using an old John Deere tractor engine to power the churn. Very interesting and the ice cream was delicious. He also had other antique John Deere engines on display. Growing up working with my father, an auto mechanic, I always enjoy looking at engines.

Tuesday was the last candidate forum of the election cycle. Sponsored by the Canyon Lake Retired Teachers Association, it was held in Sattler, at Rio Raft. There was a lively discussion of issues with many questions asked of the candidates. Mr. Miller, when asked about gambling, said that he is not in favor of casinos. I asked him why he then accepted large donations from gambling interests that do favor casinos. Mr. Miller did not stay to talk about issues after the forum ended.
It turns out that Mr. Miller, within the last month has also accepted donations from Exxon Mobil, Valero, Texas Oil and Gas PAC, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Merck Pharmaceuticals as well as the gambling interests. My donations are from people who care about water, schools, growth and the beauty of our hill country – not special interests.

The Bexar County Metro Planning Organization (MPO) meeting also held on Tuesday made the decision to not make a decision about extending their boundaries into the New Braunfels and Boerne areas. The New Braunfels Mayor, Bruce Boyer, spoke eloquently, indicating that this was a matter for joint discussion and consideration. I spoke to the group regarding Item 10 – advocating the development of light rail, connecting outlying areas of New Braunfels – and - to eventually connect with Austin (to alleviate congestion on the highways by providing affordable transportation for students, the elderly and our working populations).

The New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce hosted the Living Legends dinner in the new Civic-Convention Center on Wednesday evening. About 400 people attended to honor this year’s recipients: Jack Ohlrich, Roxolin Krueger and Arno Becker. The Braunfels Foundation Trust is a nonprofit organization emphasizing education programs and scholarships for young people. A silent auction, good music and delicious food rounded out a fine evening for a worthwhile cause.

Alarming News

JACOB’S WELL STOPS FLOWING
Emergency 30% reduction in water use called for

Wimberley, Texas
Oct. 27, 2008

Jacob’s Well, the famous natural spring known to be the longest underwater cave in Texas, stopped flowing for the second time in recorded history on the evening of October 20th. “ The lack of rainfall and the continued pumping of the aquifer to serve local water supply has caused Jacob’s Well to cease flowing,” stated Jack Hollon of the Wimberley Valley Watershed Association (WVWA) and the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District.

Jacob’s Well has been hovering at between one and two cubic feet per second for the past several months. The well continued to flow through the drought of record in the 1950’s and was the primary source of water flowing to the Blanco River which is also at it’s lowest flow since the drought of record in 1956. Jacob’s Well is the barometer for the health of the aquifer; the well ceasing to flow at this time is a major environmental event, as it stopped for the first time in recorded history in the summer of 2000.

Jacob’s Well is the primary source of water flowing from the Trinity Aquifer to form Cypress Creek, the beautiful stream that rambles through the cities of Wood Creek and Wimberley. “Losing the flow to Jacob’s Well is a signal that the aquifer is stressed and we all need to conserve water immediately. The WVWA is calling for a moratorium on permitting of any new wells or sub-divisions in the Trinity aquifer recharge zone that sustains Jacob’s Well. We also request that all water supply companies and individual well owners move into drought contingency and cut back water use by 30% or more,” stated David Baker, Executive Director of WVWA.

The Jacob’s Well Natural Area was recently awarded a grant from Hays County parks and open space bond funds to purchase the 55 acres around the well and to establish a research and environmental education center. WVWA was founded in 1996 and acquired the property in 2005. The WVWA’s mission advocates protecting the water quality and quantity of the area by promoting sustainable watershed management through community education, conservation and land protection.

The community’s investment in protecting Jacob’s Well, Blue Hole and Cypress Creek is threatened by unchecked development and the lack of authority to regulate pumping from the Trinity aquifer. Land in the recharge zone of Jacob’s Well must be protected from any further development. As a community, we need to stop over pumping groundwater and advocate legislation to mandate rainwater harvesting for all new development in this sensitive area to preserve Jacob’s Well and the environmental and economic future of this valley.

“We will know the worth of water when the well runs dry.” - Ben Franklin

To keep track of the discharge of flow and water quality of Jacob's Well go to this link.
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/tx/nwis/uf?08170990
or click on the link at www.jacobswellspring.org



David Baker
Executive Director
Wimberley Valley Watershed Association
PO . Box 2534
Wimberley, Tx. 78676
Phone 512-722-3390
Fax 512-722-3457
www.jacobswellspring.org
jacobswellspring@gmail.com

Letter to the editor

Dear Editor,
Many voters across our nation have expressed concern about the influence on elections by county officials who have a political bias that could affect the ballot box. I am proud to know that here in Comal county we have a person in charge of the election who is fair, unbiased and one we can be confident in, Joy Streater, County Clerk. I had occasion to be involved in a problem with an absentee ballot that was inadvertently marked as “indefinitely out of country” which meant the voter could only vote for national candidates. When this was brought to Ms. Streater’s attention, she took the time and effort to contact the Secretary of State to resolve the problem and get a full ballot sent back to the individual. I think this shows the dedication and commitment of our office of elections.
I am less confident in our electronic voting machines. Like all things electronic, they can have problems and errors. It is important for every voter to carefully indicate the candidate of their choice and see that the correct choice is indicated. When all selections are made, be sure to check the review screen before hitting the “VOTE” button. When in a hurry to return to work, haste could result in an error -vote.
As has always been the case, you can trust those who have earned your confidence, but a machine can never be trusted.

Daniel Boone, Candidate for District 73
1610 FM 484
Canyon Lake, Texas 78133
830-223-5111

Water is crucial to all of us.

I promise to work only to represent the peoples’ interests:
Protection of our water, public education and legislation for local management of growth. Please read to better understand what is really at stake with this election.

Some Uvalde County interests are big water permit holders and want a pipeline to sell the water “under their land” to San Antonio. It is currently illegal to sell Uvalde County groundwater to Bexar County. These water folks want to change Texas law. In order to get this done, they need to elect a person who will press for this legislation, enabling them to make millions of dollars selling “their” water.
Uvalde interests heavily donated to my opponent’s campaign. Former Democratic Governor Dolph Briscoe, the 4th largest water permit holder in the state, donated $10,000 to Miller’s campaign. His partner, Archie McFaddin, gave $2,000 and John Weisman, $60,000.

Many New Braunfels residents need a state representative to help them regarding the local quarries. Residents state that dust, truck traffic, daily blasting, damage to their homes and breathing problems are reasons to not Permit new quarries. Texas law does not allow county commissioners to help manage this development.
Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association donated significantly to my opponent’s campaign. Ingraham, a local ready mix plants displays a campaign sign of his on FM 46 toward Boerne. Miller has stated that our county commissioners have enough authority.
Please help me represent our beautiful Hill Country in the Texas House. Send a small donation my way and ask your friends to help, too. Time is short and the message crucial. Please forward this to thinking friends and family. I have NO conflicts of interest and NO implications of unethical behavior.

I promise to represent the interests of us – the people.
Thank you,
Dan
Sources: Concerned citizens and EAA Board Members, Edwards Aquifer Board Meeting Notices and Minutes, New Braunfels Herald Zeitung, San Antonio Express News, Texans for Public Justice, Lobby Watch tpj.org/Lobby_Watch, Texans for a Strong Economy PAC, Texas Ethics Commission Candidate Reports

End of the week update

The activities of this campaign have kept me too busy to blog lately.
In the last weeks I have continued to listen to voters by participating in numerous town meetings and events. The S.A.F.E.Quarry Meeting met at “The Barn” 156 N. Solms in New Braunfels. A large group of concerned citizens turned out. They are worried – concerned about dust, traffic (especially at the new school), water wasted, increased blasting noises, damage to their homes, piece of mind and many other issues. They asked about why they have never seen my opponent at their meetings – and wondered why.
I am amazed, but have recently been told (backed up by verifiable documentation) that he does not meet with them because as the Chairman or Treasurer, for all his many years on the EAA (Edwards Aquifer Authority) he is working with the quarries – their lobbyist, and even accepted multiple donations to his campaign from the quarry association – Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association. The location of this meeting, The Barn, is a great spot for large weddings and parties in a rural garden setting. As my wife Robbi and I host small weddings and parties at our Canyon Lake Ranch, we told Ron and Rhonda that we will refer the larger events to them.

We shared a table the La Prensa Hispanic Heritage Awards Gala, with a lovely television personality from Univision and her husband. A most interesting and vital woman, originally from Columbia, she hosts a Spanish language television show here and has for many years. This party was held at the Omni Hotel in SA, and is yearly benefit raising money for scholarships for outstanding Hispanic students. It was a treat to hear several of these terrific young students speak. Comal County’s Ramon Chapa was honored with the Community Service Award at this event.

The Bulverde Jubilee Parade and Festival was fun. We got to see many old friends and meet many new ones. Held in downtown Bulverde, this autumn festival really brings out crowds in Bulverde – and highlights businesses and local organization in a very wholesome manner. While Bulverde, like so much of the Hill Country, has growing pains, it is a terrific town filled with involved and committed people.

The Canyon Lake Lions Club Shrimp Fest, held at the CRRC near the Dam in Canyon Lake featured great shrimp and all the trimmings in their fund raising efforts for the Lions charities. What a great job these civic minded folks do. We ate – again - and then headed to Stonewall for their well known (and even better attended) Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry. Again, great people pulling together for important reasons. The Stonewall Fish Fry is known all over the Hill Country. I salute their efforts.

It was a busy day, so Robbi and I then headed to the Cibolo Nature Center Gala, where we had also donated a stay at our Alamo Street Victorian Inn BB in San Antonio. This annual benefit, featuring great food from the finest restaurants in the Boerne area, is a terrific way to raise money for the Cibolo Nature Center. The efforts of Carolyn Evans and the whole staff is enabling this community to preserve a beautiful piece of land for the public and provides many interesting classes as well.

Back to Kerrville, I attended another GMA9 Water meeting. I left there uncertain as to how the models for our Future Desired Condition (to be presented to the Texas Water Board in 2010) are actually going to be done. I have talked about this before – and had thought the drought of record (1950’s) was going to be utilized – but now I am not so certain. There are powerful forces working on this and we will have to see what happens.

Talking with the Gillespie Retired Teachers, I again stated my positions about retired teachers needed a cost of living increase, doing better regarding the testing of our children (getting rid of the TAKS) and many other education issues. With a teacher wife and three educator daughters, we talk education in our family – and fully understand what must be done.

The Fredericksburg Chamber Member Appreciation Hamburger Supper was well attended. Fredericksburg is filled with interesting and interested folks – involved in their community and caring deeply about its future. Afterwards, and headed over to another Transmission Line meeting in Harper. Everyone in Gillespie County is worried about the commercial interests trying to bisect their land with huge power transmission lines. We will continue to work on this issue so that we can avoid the cutting up of family lands and the disfiguring of the hill country.. My suggestion; use the right of ways along I-10. This way we do not have to disturb so many families.

Thanks to the Boerne Chamber of Commerce for hosting a Candidate forum for their membership. My opponent, once again proved he has no understanding or knowledge of my positions. I am a strict Constitutionalist and believe in the 2nd Amendment - and – hold the highest rating from the NRA and the Texas Rifle Association. He just tries to align himself as a conservative, though his actions paint him as a tax and spend liberal. Strange . . . this politics business.

Attending the Garden Ridge Marketplace Robbi and I found great items for our home, our San Antonio Bed and Breakfast and for gifts. As always the Garden Ridge people are warm, friendly and anxious to talk about the local issues.

The Fredericksburg Rotary Club sponsored their famous spaghetti Supper on the 17th. For a group supper, the food was excellent. Everyone was friendly and interested in talking. Good company and more support. Robbi shared suppertime with the Fredericksburg founders of Angel Ministries. What a terrific project they began four months ago. Through the Methodist Church, and lots of volunteers, they are doing a fantastic job of bringing a month’s supply of food to folks in the Fredericksburg area at reduced cost. See more about this at www.angelministires.com

The New Braunfels, Bark in the Park was again held on a beautiful day and was filled with happy dogs and their owners. The Wiener dog race was a hoot. A great New Braunfels “happening”.

Last Saturday was Rock the Vote, designed to encourage and involve high schooled students in the political process. All of the Comal County Independent School District High Schools participated. A pizza lunch was served afterwards and the students each received a great Rock the Vote tee shirt. Held at the new Canyon High School, many local candidates attended in support of students – Larry Horton, Donna Eggleston, Ramon Chapa, Greg Parke and I. Sandy Morales, candidate for Constable, Woodie Jones and Catherine Stone, for judicial slots were also in attendance. My opponent, Doug Miller did not attend.

The Kendall County Democratic Women sponsor the Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner each year as their major fundraiser. This year, Catherine Stone, Judicial Candidate was the featured speaker. It was a great evening with an active group of Boerne area Kendall County Democrats. We were sorry to miss the Fischer Store Italian Spaghetti Supper held at the old Fischer Community School at the same time. It is just around the bend from our place – and we were sorry to miss seeing our friends and neighbors.

Last week Sunday was the Anhalt Oktoberfest. It is always a treat to be in Anhalt. The people are very friendly and it is such fun to speak German, dance and watch others dance at lunchtime.

The League of Women Voters is to be commended for hosting their Candidate Forum and Voters Guide. Impartial and well conducted, the LWB offers a wonderful service to us all. Please consider joining the League as they research and lead the way in a totally bipartisan manner on many important issues.

On the radio in Gillespie County, I had fun sparing with James Williamson. The morning talk show host on Revolution Radio, James and I both respect and appreciate our Constitution and love talking about it. We discussed a whole range of things – from water, to same sex marriage, finance, education and a host of other things.

Regarding same sex marriage - Any two people should have the right to be legally, financially and medically responsible for each other as they choose. This is not same sex marriage, but has total respect for the individual and smaller government, not more government control.

Leadership New Braunfels, a reunion of those who have completed the leadership training through the New Braunfels Chamber, offered another opportunity for all our candidates to speak. The luncheon, held at Landa Park, was delicious and the event well attended.

The Comal Needs Assessment Study presentation held at New Braunfels Convention Center was very informative. An additional Needs Assessment presentation was held today at the Bulverde library –another gorgeous new building with loads of good activities including a genealogy group, exhibitions and story times for the little ones. The new library has a great staff and is off to a good start.

I also attended the TxDOT Meeting at Hoffman School where TxDOT explained about all the coming changes to FM 306. What wonderful new buildings we have – the New Braunfels Convention Center, the Bulverde Library and our new Comal County schools. We are growing very fast here in District 73 – which is why I am running for office.

The New Braunfels Chamber Mixer at Eden Home had our favorite, Betty Doepenschmidt with her camera, recording this lovely party. She let us know that the next Eden Home Gala will be held in New Braunfels next March 27th. Eden Home, around for almost 100 years is yet another local organization that provides outstanding service to our seniors. We plan to again attend and support their efforts with a stay at our bed and breakfast.

Dear Friends,

Frank and I used to live on the Boone's ranch in Canyon Lake for almost two years. We became good friends and I can attest to his convictions to our area. Dan is a good listener and has the best interest of our land and water at heart. He is committed to protecting our area from irresponsible growth and has a true interest in our water concerns. He's a fighter and has never wavered from his convictions.
He's not a politician. He cares about Democrat and Republican views with no biases.
If we could vote for him, we would!!!
GOOD LUCK DAN and ROBBI. WE HOPE YOU WIN!

Pam and Frank Sullivan
Republicans for Dan Boone

Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner, Boerne, TX

Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner, Boerne, TX, originally uploaded by BPL Bibliophile.

Dan and Robbi at the Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner

Who's protecting our water?

Good News:

Radio Debate with Opponent: Please listen – Saturday, October 18, 9:00 am KGNB 1420 AM and on Sunday at 9:00 am KNBT 92.1 FM

Non-partisan candidate forum: Monday October 20 - 6:30 pm GVTC Auditorium in Spring Branch. Sponsored by The League of Women Voters.

Last Month’s Question: “Knowledgeable water people cannot find much positive my opponent has done to carry out its legislated mandate – the protection and preservation of the EA water supply. However, he has helped developers a lot. Can you help with this information”?
Answers: Water board members from all over the district and EAA folks responded - here are just a few things they said:

1. Doug Miller has been either Treasurer or Chairman of the EAA since it was formed.
2. The lobbyist for the EAA, Freddy Warner and his firm were at the same time (and for 8 years) the lobbyists for the quarries (TACA).
3. Mr. Warner is now employed by Cemex, the folks applying for another New Braunfels quarry permit.
4. Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association has donated significantly to Miller’s campaign.
5. Ingraham ,one of our local ready mix plants, displays his campaign sign on FM 46 toward Boerne.
6. The EAA paid for the video used by the quarries (TACA) to educate the legislature about what good neighbors quarries make and how well they clean our water.
7. The quarries use more water than the entire metropolitan population of New Braunfels

Voters are concerned: About quadrupling growth, water shortages, public schools and the need to get taxes off our backs. We are worried about ruining our hill country with huge, lighted signs and clear cutting for high density subdivisions.

I will represent local interests at the state level with water and quality of life issues here in our district. – Many do not think my opponent can.

Working cooperatively – all of us together - is the only way to get things done in Austin. With your help, this is exactly what I intend to do.

And - most importantly - as an American, please vote,
Dan

First week in October, still on the road

There are so many great events in the Hill Country that it is hard to keep up:
I spoke with many folks at the Living Green & Renewable Energy Roundup in Fredericksburg on the 29th of September.
Saw innovative and useful green items. Can’t wait until we have the time to install some of them here at the ranch. We listened to great presentations, especially one by Judith McGeary on NAIS. www.farmandranchfreedom.org People need to be aware of the restrictions, limitations and imposition that will be made on our small ranching businesses. Please help me lobby for “voluntary” participation in NAIS. Mandatory membership will put many local folks out of business. Best it should go away altogether.

Just one thought: what I have been told: large ranchers will be able to list an entire herd with one identification number while small operators will have to tag each animal – and account within 24 hours, of any change in their status. Ouch . . . we must act now.

Independent Texans, having endorsed me, are now helping with independent voters. They too are aware that while our issues are non partisan, they will affect all of us. Party names, like fraternities are fun, but we really need to look beyond labels.

KSAT filmed a great two minute piece that we will post here for you to watch. Let us know what you think. Not being a professional politician, I tend to speak from the heart.

My speech, along with many others, will be shown on air . . . . ..
Speaking of on air; Be watching for the KGNB radio forum with me and my opponent.
It will be on the radio October 17th, 5pm and October 18th 8am on KGNB and October 19th 9am on KNBT.

The Health Fair at Holy Name Church in New Braunfels was well attended. It offered a great 5K walk/run, entertainment and lots of very good health screening. Ramon Chapa, candidate for the New Braunfels commissioners’ court, Precinct 3 led this effort. Good going Ramon. Speaking of Ramon, he is being honored tonight at the La Prensa Gala (an interview will be broadcast on Fox News around 8:15 pm this evening).

The Bulverde, Spring Branch, Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce Trade Show was held last Saturday at the CRRC Building below the Dam near Canyon Lake. Talking with our locals showed lots of support, even among our strong Republicans. People are thinking about what concerns us all – water, growth and the future of the hill country. Thanks to everyone for a very successful chamber event.

Robbi and I attended the Garden Ridge Lion’s Club fundraiser, Fish Fry and Barbecue, last weekend. What a terrific event and great group of people. Welcoming and responsive, it is good to know these people. In addition to the usual silent auction, they had new furniture items for sale and a good live auction. In fact, Robbi picked up two chairs for our home. . .and I volunteered to be next year’s auctioneer (more about that later).
Mayor Jay F. Feibelman was welcoming, showed us around, introducing us to many. The Mayor is justifiably proud of the well designed civic center Garden Ridge built and owns without debt. We hope to have a candidate forum or debate there soon. Watch for more information soon.

The S.A.F.E Quarry meeting was held at The Old Barn on Solms. They had a great turnout – with many concerned people. Their issues include noise, dusk, traffic near the school, vast amounts of water used to keep the dust down, dust polluting the aquifer and so much more. Many of these people have lived here for years are finding their needs not being met. This is one more reason for getting legislation giving more control to county commissioners.

URGENT! help us reach our goals, we are getting close

Dan's campaign needs another $5000.00 in order to finish paying for those much needed radio and TV commercials, newspaper ads, and mailouts.

If each one of you sent only $10.00, it would do the trick.

I know that all of us are really getting tapped out at this point, but we've only got a month to go and victory is within our grasp. If you can, please send a check for any amount that you can manage, and I know Robbi and Dan will appreciate it more than you can know. The address is:

Daniel Boone
Candidate District 73
1610 FM 484
Canyon Lake, Texas 78133

Or online at www.boonefortexas.com/helpmeout.htm

Why Send Daniel Boone USAF Lt Col (ret) to the Texas Legislature?

This election may well determine the future of our hill country. Our local population is forecast to quadruple by 2050, and this stresses our resources and infrastructure more each year. We have to get state functionaries out of our business and develop the best county level polices. I am also concerned relief from property and franchise taxes, public education and our roads. Eliminating waste while creating transparency and accountability in our state government will be top priorities when I am your representative. I do not take money from special interests; my only allegiance is to you and the hill country.

· Water: We must be true conservatives in protecting our water supplies for ourselves and our children. Water management is one of the most important issues. Currently, our water is not being adequately preserved and protected. With professional skills in statistical analysis, I know we must improve our computer modeling of groundwater availability and use for the 2020 report to State Water Development Board.

· Growth; 95% of our district is unincorporated and our county commissioners cannot help us manage growth due to state law. We need local management of growth so that we can continue to enjoy our special life style. I favor legislation that will enable our county commissioners to help locally as we see fit, right here at home. If we do nothing, we will have city style sprawl and the destruction of our hill country.

· Public Roads; I oppose double taxation and the conversion of our public roads into toll roads. Continuing this effort – and opposition to the Trans Texas Toll road are among my top priorities.

· Alternative Energy: Our legislature must promote the use of wind and solar development. Incentives now will create the new Texas boom – providing jobs and sustainable energy for generations. I will take bold steps in the legislature to insure leadership in this area.

· Education: We must reduce state bureaucratic restrictions and return control to the local district. All children deserve a superior education with both vocational and academic education accessible and respected. Eliminating the TEKS Test, keeping good teachers and taking care of retired teachers must be part of our goals. The tax monies we have must go directly into classrooms with local needs determining our priorities.

· NAIS; National Animal Identification System seems sensible upon first look. However, it must be defeated as it creates undue bureaucratic burden upon local operations and will grow a bigger government while limiting our personal freedoms.

I will work to curb development over the water recharge zones, and to ensure safe, pure drinking water for our children’s future. Current leadership has stood by as developers of high density growth, shopping centers and huge parking lots have spread across the Austin-San Antonio Corridor resulting in paved sprawl over the Edward's Contributing and Recharge Zones in Hays, Comal, Bexar and now spreading into Bandera, Kendall and Medina Counties. The EAA leadership has stated that when the water gets dirty, that they will "create treatment plants to clean it up." Who wants to be drinking reprocessed toilet water?. Do we want our representative to work for us, the people or to work behind the scenes, partnering with suburbia's water marketing importers?

I have done it all – grew up in poverty; picked cotton lived in a fire tower and sold cars. I enlisted in the Navy and Army and eventually went to college on the GI Bill, earning a PhD. Entering the Air Force as an officer, I was sent to Waco VA for an internship. Because, in addition to other professional experience, I have worked in negotiating contracts, managing multi-million dollar contracts and mediated contract disputes I have skills useful for a legislator.

I believe in the principle that the job of State Representative is to represent all the people and because I love the hill country, I am running for the HD73 seat and solicit your vote.

Things are moving so fast, we can hardly keep up

Another busy weekend found Dan block walking in New Braunfels Saturday. It's a great way to meet lots of voters and get a feel for their needs. Later, he attended the largest Cajun Festival in Texas in Lake Hills, and a benefit for the Public Library in Boerne (at the Hungry Horse Restaurant - great music, too) - and it was their 25th anniversary celebration, - and a really well attended, successful event, with delicious food.

Later there was the White Hat Gala, benefitting the Bulverde-Spring Branch Chamber of Commerce, at the Johnson Ranch (where Dan donated a stay at his bed and breakfast in San Antonio). It was a restaurant tasting party - with different wineries, shops and restaurants providing all the food (more to come on all those involved!).

Sunday Dan was off to Fredericksburg for the Renewable Energy Roundup and Green Living fair. Lots of folks to meet and things to learn about going green!

Stay tuned....

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!

Democratic Rally in New Braunfels This Sunday

Sunday Afternoon, September 21, at 3 -- Big Rally

Spread the Word! Democrats are Alive & Well in Comal County!
Our Democratic Presidential Candidate, Senator Barack Obama will be well represented at the rally, as will Rick Noriega, Candidate for the U.S. Senate, whose National Guard unit has been called to help with hurricane relief efforts. Among the Candidates attending the rally will be Mark Thompson, Railroad Commissioner; Susan Strawn, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3; J. R. Molina, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 4; Woodie Jones, Chief Justice, 3rd Court of Appeals; Daniel Boone, Texas House District 73; Larry Horton, Comal County Commissioner, District 1; Ramon Chapa, Jr., Comal County Commissioner, District 3; and Sandy Morales, Incumbent Constable, District 3. We proudly note that the last four on the list are also loyal Members of The DoCC. All of these candidates have juggled their schedules just to meet you. We hope you'll be able to return the honor. It's important!

Music, food, and beverages, will be available after 2. Candidates will begin to address the crowd at 3. It'll all be happening at Picnic Area #11, in Landa Park in New Braunfels.

http://www.boonefortexas.com

Interview with Dan for the Times Guardian

This is a copy of an interview with Dan back in February before we had the blog up. We though it would be of interest for those that want to get to know him better.


JS: Let’s start by getting the name thing straight. What about Daniel Boone? Are you related?
DB: Yes, I am a descendent of ole Daniel a fifth, great grandson, I have been told. My family is out of Tennessee and had a farm in Kentucky – though I have loved Texas since I was a small child.
JS: I see you are a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Air Force and that you have a PhD in Experimental Psychology and Clinical Psychology. Tell me about that

DB: I am proud to have served in the United States Military for more than 26 years. First I started out as a young enlisted troop in the Navy. After a shore battery accident in which I was injured and honorably discharged, I recovered and enlisted in the Army. After obtaining enough G.I. Bill credits, I began to work on my college degree. I finished with a Doctorate in Experimental Psychology and then, went into the US Air Force when they offered me additional training in clinical psychology. My Internship was served at Waco’s Veteran VA Hospital in Waco.
Coming from poverty, it was the military that enabled me to successfully complete my education. The military has been a large part of the American dream for many of us and I feel strongly about backing our troops, providing care for our wounded - wounds that can be seen and those that are more difficult to diagnose. Vietnam Vets living under bridges is a national scandal. We must take care of our veterans.

JS: May I call you “Dan”?
DB: I really prefer to be called “Dan”. I have had that title the longest. Doctor is a little ostentatious outside the clinical setting.

JS: How did your military career prepare you for public service? As Robbi, my wife and terrific partner and I say, “nothing we do in life is every wasted”. I understand the needs of us ordinary folk and am fortunate enough to have years of training and the skills to listen to folks, mediate differences and reach agreement on tough issues. That’s what this election is about – dealing with our hill country issues.

JS: Tell me more about why are you running for the District 73 legislative seat?
DB: This campaign is about Hill Country Issues – and about getting things done in Austin. It’s about protecting our children’s education, providing adequate water for our great grandchildren and preserving our public roads.
This election is not a question of Republican versus Democrat. It is about independent thinkers taking back our government for the people it serves. You know, I ran as a write in candidate in 2006 after the upset of Carter Casteel in the primary. Someone had to step forward to oppose the huge amount of money brought into Comal County to buy this seat. This time, the Democrats asked me to run on their ticket.

JS: What do you see as the overriding thrust of your service if you win the election?
DB: There are good people on both sides of the isle and our goal is not winning at any price but working together to solve problems and get things done. We must say what we mean and mean what we say. People deserve a responsive legislator – one who listens to them and reflects their views in the legislature. This business as usual and “go along to get along” must end.

JS: Do you think that is possible given the political atmosphere at present?
DB: Yes I do. We may be Republican, Democrat, Libertarian or Independent but our common goal is the same - to do what is best for the people, not the political organization. Of course we have diverse views of how to go about solving problems, but it is only when we come together to share those views and talk together, in good faith, that we can come to solutions I truly believe this is true for our state and our country. We must work together to regain our honor and the respect of all the people. Maybe that sounds like a politician talking but that is what I truly believe.

JS: You refer to specific problems that need to be solved. What are the issues that you feel must be addressed in the next legislative session?

DB: Well, remember I am running to represent my Hill Country District. I am very concerned about how we handle the huge explosion of growth in our district. The population of Texas is forecast to double during the same time our hill country population will quadruple.
While we are glad folks are recognizing that this is the best place to live, we must be sure that this growth contributes to our way of life here in the Hill Country, not destroy it. That demands we have the local means to make sure that we do not get houses are crammed so close together that they become blight. To maintain our personal property rights we must act now.

JS: You have said that Education is a high priority for you. Please explain your position on education.
DB: Yes, it is one of the top four major issues I consider of highest priority. It is important that our public education system be one of excellence. We must evaluate what we are currently doing and using the best models available, provide for our children to learn and grow into productive adults. Our children must have the opportunity to realize their full potential.
It is also important here, to realize that we taxpayers are carrying the major burden in our education system whereas the state is only 44th in support of our schools. One way in which we can lessen the tax burden on citizens, is to require the state to put the money promised to education into funding for education. This would allow a tax reduction for citizens and still improve the funding for schools.

JS: You said you had four major issues. What other issues do you consider priorities?
DB: Yes. The most pressing issues all follow from the issue of growth in the Hill Country. They are protecting our water resources for the present and into the future for our children, grandchildren and beyond. Remember, if you turn on the faucet and nothing comes out, it makes no difference if you are Republican or Democrat- you are out of water. There are solutions to insuring our water supply. It just means that our legislature has to be proactive rather than wait for the next drought. We can’t sit around meeting, conferring, jawboning and doing nothing to eternity. We must implement solutions that are easily available now and be innovative too, to insure our water supply.

JS: That’s two issues. What else do you consider important?
DB: Well, of course there are many issues that are important and must be addressed in the next session. However, I will combine the third and forth issues because they relate to our system of transportation. Of prime interest to me and to many of us here is the hill country is that we must not let our public roads be converted to toll roads. It even seems that it may unconstitutional because we have already paid for these roads. To convert them to toll roads is simply double taxation.

Actually there is money for our road system, and TxDOT appears to have been playing a shell game about running out of money. We as citizens should not allow this to happen and we should have a full and clear understanding of just where and how our tax money is being spent on our roads and we must end secret sweetheart deals for foreigners. How about this money going to Texans, we know how to build roads?

The second part of this issue is the Trans Texas Corridor. I see this as one of the worst ideas pushed on the citizens of Texas in living memory. In meetings I have attended in Austin, the Governor has heard from folks all over the state that the people of Texas do not want the Trans Texas Corridor.

Austin’s response has been that the Governor wants to spend nine million of our tax dollars for advertising - to try to sell the people of Texas on the idea that this is a good thing. It isn’t and the people of Texas know it and have told him so.

JS: Well, you seem quite intense about that. Is there anything else that you would to add?

DB: I would like for your readers to know that during the last years of my military career, I had the opportunity to work in contract solicitation, evaluation and management of contracts ranging from two million to twenty million dollars. I believe these experiences and my last 14 years of experience as a small businessman here in Texas give me perspective on how we should be overseeing how our tax dollars are spent. My training as a professional psychologist gives me a perspective on how the differences in approaches to problem solving can result in the coming together of differing positions into a successful and meaningful solution to issues.

One last thing- I do strongly hold the idea that the government belongs to the people, not that the people are simply a resource for government spending. If the people insist on that truth and the Legislature recognizes that fact; with us all working together, Texas has a very bright future.

JS: Thank you Dan. This has been very informative.
Daniel Boone can be reached through his website at www.BooneforTexas.com and at his ranch 210-240-6565.

http://www.boonefortexas.com

Guest Artical, Ground Water Area 9 August Meeting

This article was published in the Bulverde Standard on September 10th.

The Hill Country's Groundwater Management Area #9 (GMA 9) Counties met on Friday, 29 August in Kerrville, to discuss scientific methods relating to sustainable vs. non-sustainable water use in conservation districts throughout the region.

In 2005, the State's 79th Legislature passed House Bill 1763 which required individual groundwater conservation districts within GMA's to meet on a regular basis and to scientifically determine the "desired future conditions " (DFC) for their groundwater resources.

Comal County, while included in the State's designated priority groundwater management area and inside the GMA 9, is the only county in the area that does not have a groundwater district and therefore, is not officially represented on this important panel. I attended this meeting as a Comal County resident and to my knowledge, was the only Comal County citizen present at the meeting.

This meeting was of particular interest as it included discussion concerning computer models on the effect of drawing down the aquifers by as much as 33 feet. The districts are considering varying drought conditions of recent years along with current and speculated future pumping to arrive at a negotiated "managed available groundwater" (MAG). The results of this modeling effort will be the basis of a report to be submitted to the Texas Water Development Board in 2010. The purpose of this modeling effort is to report on the "Desired Future Condition"of our aquifers and what we need to do regarding support of property rights and the water needs of our population.

I suggested, along with others attending the meeting, that the "drought of record" between 1950 and 1957 should also be included in the data base for the model as that will provide a realistic outlook for future expectations and planning. Several attending the meeting also suggested that the model include the projected population increases in the Hill Country by the year 2050.

With the lack of authority given counties by the legislature to manage growth, a drought of record model is highly desirable to show state and local governments what effects can be expected during moderate and severe droughts, taking all these factors into account. Realities,
such as limited surface and groundwater resources, should precipitate action by the Texas Legislature. The results of this study will provide information demonstrating the need for additional regulatory authority for county water conservation districts and commissioners courts.

The GMA panel discussed the fact that inclusion of the drought of record would severely skew the model in a direction that was totally unacceptable in considering any additional drawdown of the aquifers (how much more water can be pumped out). The panel suggested that multiple factors such as high density subdivision developments and population growth is going to make it all but impossible to sustainably maintain the aquifer. One panel member said that future pumping as is being allowed now is "going to be a disaster", but then also argued against using the drought of record model run because of fears that its findings would cause restrictions to selling land and future growth.

Finally, another panel member said that due to such a strong public insistence, along with assurances from the Texas Water Development Board that such a model run would provide valuable information, the model run should be done . As this additional information could protect Hill Country spring flows, it was suggested that it would be wise for the GMA
9 panel to ask for a TWDB Drought of Record model run. The Drought of record model run should be done before the panel decides on "managed available water" in a desired future condition.

At that point, a panel member said he would not agree to it and that his County would vote "no". Another member joined with him and the idea of a drought of record model was postponed until another meeting.

I suggest all Hill Country residents become aware of the crucial work being done by the GMA 9 panel and ask that citizens take part in solving the problems facing us for both near term and future water needs. I believe that the GMA 9 panel appreciates input from citizens and believes participation from communities is the best way to find solutions to the substantial water and growth issues facing us.

Daniel Boone
http://www.boonefortexas.com

From New Braunfels ChamberTrade Show to Longhorn Cafe in Harper

The New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce Trade Show was, once again, a first rate event. Held in the newly expanded and beautifully designed Civic Center in downtown New Braunfels, the preview evening featured good food, great booths and friendly people.
Heading out to Harper the next morning, my wife, Robbi and I again enjoyed viewing the beauty of our Texas land. Untouched by large commercial signs, this part of the hill country is just a pleasure to drive. Voicing your Views -where I travel the district listening to the people -was held during lunch in the Longhorn Cafe. This Harper restaurant proved to be a real treat. Their grilled cheese sandwiches are thick, crisp and delicious while the burgers received the review, "best to date on the campaign trail."
I was graciously welcomed by locals who are very interested in water and schools - subjects that seem to concern all us Texans these days. After a very interesting conversation we headed to Fredericksburg - though the advertised Voicing your Views at the Altdorf Biergarten had to be moved. The home furnishings shop and wine bar next door, House.Wine. welcomed us. Owner Todd and manager Bruce made us welcome and we drank the world's best sangria - a sparkling white wine potion with a sexy name. Try it next time you are on Main Street in Fredericksburg. This cool oasis is just the perfect spot to hang out - but be careful or you will end up buying gorgeous furniture and accessories at the same time.
The Kendall County Retired Teachers sponsored a candidate forum for the HD73 race on Thursday. This active group of active professionals had specific questions and seemed very responsive to my message. As they know, I began my run for office because of public education. Effectively taking a 24% pay cut over the last eight years due to no cost of living raises, these folks have my support.
We also discussed the GPO (Government Pension Offset) and WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision). The group consensus was that those "in the trenches"- the classroom teachers need support, time, authority and meaningful testing - eliminating the TEKS and returning to academic subject testing before and after each grade. To attract and hold high quality classroom teachers demands the will of Texans to treat teachers as professionals - expecting professional behavior and providing professional status and pay.

Yes, I am originally from TN, lived for a time on the family farm in KY, and am a great, great, great, etc. great grandson of Daniel. I am finding many distant relatives as I tour House Distric 73. Pat Boone and Debbie Boone are distant kin, too.
Saw "Daniel Boone" coonskin caps today for sale in Fredericksburg at Dooley's great store. Even the manufacturers are now confusing Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. Occasionally, volunteers even show up wearing one.
Though I was stationed all over while in the military for 26 years, I have also lived in many Texas cities including San Antonio, Canyon Lake, Corpus Christi, Galveston, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Austin and Houston as well as in a fire tower, my car (short while as a student) and a trailer. There are lots of us who were born poor, but have worked hard and have had great opportunity in this wonderful country of ours.

Fredericksburg Texas Monday

Great time today in Fredericksburg. Met many friendly folks at several events. Everyone is tuned into the coming election and are concerned about water, growth, education and keeping the beauty of the hill country. We must preserve the beauty of this land and keep it intact for those who follow us.
While wind and solar energy sources in West Texas are great, we cannot afford to deface this area with transmission towers cutting through ranches, dividing land and ruining the views. What is wrong with running lines along areas such as along I-10? Scenic Texas is busy fighting the huge commerical signs (often lighted) coming into rural areas - maybe they will choose to add transmission towers to their mission.