RightOnline/Defending the American Dream-Texas Summit

Peggy Venable (photo)

Americans for Prosperity Director

RightOnline/Defending the American Dream - Texas Summit

Where taxpayers' voices are amplified!
Here in Texas, the voices of taxpayers are being drowned out by taxpayer-funded lobbyists, liberal bloggers and special interest groups. The result: policies that are threatening to destroy the American Dream - higher taxes, government-run health care, out-of-control government spending, job-killing regulations, and endless red tape.

But on Friday and Saturday, July 18th and 19th, at the Renaissance Hotel in Austin, you can do something about it! Join Michelle Malkin, Barry Goldwater, Jr., Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele, syndicated columnist Robert Novak, Redstate.com's Erick Erickson, The Wall Street Journal's John Fund and Stephen Moore, Texas Railroad Commission Chairman Michael Williams and numerous Texas leaders, Americans for Prosperity Foundation president Tim Phillips, and Grover Norquist, with hundreds of citizen leaders from across Texas, at Americans for Prosperity Foundation's Defending the American Dream Summit.

Register now!
For those in need of transportation, we will be running busses from the following locations: West Texas (Midland-Odessa-San Angelo) South Texas (Brownsville-McAllen-Corpus Christi-San Antonio) North Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth- Waco) East Texas (Galveston-Houston-Columbus) Click here to reserve a bus space. Government taxes, spends, and regulates too much. We empower taxpayers to determine how much government they want and are willing to pay for.
Please join us to protect taxpayer interests and amplify our voice.

Article reprinted from Texas insider.Org

Video Game Design Summer camp celebrates graduates

Michael Williams (photo)

Chairman of Texas Railroad Commission

Article reprinted from Texas Insider.Org

Williams’ Video Game Design Summer Camp Celebrates Inaugural Graduates

Chairman Michael Williams, Texas Railroad Commission, will present awards
"Williams Innovators" is a summer camp that promotes young people's interest in math and science through the teaching of designing computer games.

Sponsored by Friends of Michael Williams, Be The Game and The Institute of Urban Game Design, “Williams Innovators” learn how to design a video game with an energy exploration theme. There are 42 students participating in this inaugural summer camp. This innovative program started in Washington, D.C. and had fantastic results.

Campers had fun, played games, and in the process, learned about math, science and technology. Williams hopes this will spur an interest in young people to go to college and study engineering, science and mathematics.

More than half of Texas energy professionals are eligible to retire within the next ten years, many as early as five years. Texas needs a whole new generation of energy innovators. For more information, log on to http://www.BTheGame.com.

Chairman Williams will present certificates of graduation and awards to the top male and female students. Media availability will immediately follow.

Thursday July 3rd @ 10 a.m..
Cornerstone Baptist Church, 5415 Matlock Road, Arlington (817) 468-0083
Michael Williams, Chairman, Texas Railroad Commission presents “Williams Innovators” Summer Camp Graduation

McCain to address American GI Forum National Conference

Senator John McCain (photo)

Article Reprinted from Texas Insider.org

McCain to Address the American GI Forum National Conference

By Bertha Velasquez - La Voz Colorado

(Denver, CO) Antonio G. Morales, National Commander of the American GI Forum, held a press conference on Friday June 20 at the American GI Forum Hall located at 1717 Federal Blvd. He spoke about Hispanic American veterans, the organization’s current position on the Iraq War and the organization’s agenda for this year.

In a telephone interview, John J. Padilla, American GI Forum Conference Coordinator, confirmed that Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain would address the American GI Forum on Friday July 25 at the 60th Annual National Conference of the American GI Forum held in Denver this year from July 23 through 26 at the Denver Grand Hyatt Hotel. Padilla said he did not know what exactly Senator McCain would address during the forum, but sounded enthusiastic about him coming to the event later this month. “It feels great. He’s a national war hero who has served his country. He’s done a lot for this country and I’d like to hear what he has to say,” said Padilla.

When asked if Senator Obama would speak at the conference, Padilla said that they have spoken to his campaign, but haven’t confirmed anything yet.

The American GI Forum will also have a Veterans Affairs Training Session that will include: Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Veteran Business Enterprise, Disabled Veteran Employment, Homeless Programs, Women Veterans and Veterans Transition.

Featured speakers will be Dr. Alphonso Batres, Chief Officers, Office of Readjustment Counseling, Dept of VA;
Chuck Southern, Center for Veterans Enterprise;
Rafael Torres, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Resolution Management;
Fred Downs, Chief, Officer of Prosthetics and Clinical Logistics;
Dennis May, Director Veterans Employment Coordination;
Peter Dougherty, Director VA Homeless Veteran Programs;
Susan Erickson, Deputy Director Veterans Benefits Administration and
Kristin Day, Deputy Director, Social Work Services.

Other events will include Workshops by the Small Business Administration including, Loan Development, Business Contracts, Community Development Grants as well as the AGIF Outreach Programs and Leadership Forum.

These will include speakers
James Lloyd, Executive Director Office of Small Business Programs, U.S. Department of the Army;
Hon. Ana Maria Farias, Deputy Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of HUD;
Patrick W. Dunne, Acting Under Secretary, Veterans Benefits Administration,
VA; Terry R. Hankerson, Chief Regulations Development and Evaluations,
DOL; Michael W. Hager, Assistant Secretary, Human Resources and Administration, U.S. Dept. of VA
and Carlos Martinez, President and CEO, AGIF National Veterans Outreach Programs.

The AGIF will also present its own legislative agenda and important resolutions to delegates from across the country at their annual gathering.

The American GI Forum, established in 1948, is a Family Veterans organization that centers around veterans affairs as well as on education and civil rights through its multiple chapters across the United States.

For more information about the American GI Forum of the United States or about the annual conference, call 303-934-3433 or visit www.americangiforum.org .

Senator Obama reaches out to Evangelicals with program

Senator Barack Obama (photo)

Obama courts conservatives with new faith program (AP)

A memorable "Quote of the Day" for Monday, June 30th

"Life isn't about how to survive the storm; but how to dance in the rain."

Texas Insider.Org is linked to Walker Report & visa versa

The Texas Insider.Org icon is now part of the Walker Report. In reciprocation, The Walker Report is linked on the Texas Insider.Org.

Other links on the Walker Report include various organizations on both sides of the political spectrum as well as community links of all types and even a museum. Check them out. Like Fox News, we report, you decide.

Carnot 4 State Rep
Pro-Life Democrats
McCain Website
Obama Website
Craig Stinson
Capitol Annex
Burnt Orange Report
Off the Kuff
Steven Stoli Playhouse
SA News
Ms. Legal's Identity Theft
Home School Education
San Antonio Museum of Art
Texas Insider
Sunshine for Seniors
News Max
Young Conservatives of Texas
Homeowner Taxpayer Assoc.
Americans for Prosperity
San Antonio Current
Bexar County Northwest Democrats
South Texas Republicans
Bexar County Republican Party
Bexar County Democratic Party

7th Latino Breakfast Club meeting of 2008 @ Cha Cha's

Speaker Patricia Diaz Dennis

You are invited to the 7th Latino Breakfast Club meeting of 2008.

Networking with a Latino Flair! Everybody is Welcome! (Just like Fiesta Week)

When: July 30th, (Wednesday)
Location: Cha-Cha's Restaurant, 2026 Babcock, (210) 615-7000,
www.cha-chas.com

Speaker: Patricia Diaz Dennis, AT&T Inc., Senior Vice President & Assistant General Counsel

Parking Advice: There is an EXTRA parking lot to the right of the restaurant. We encourage you to use it if you arrive after 7:50 a.m.

7:30 a.m. - 8 a.m.-
Reception-8 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Program Cost: Free

(Breakfast courtesy of Cha- Cha's)
The Latino Breakfast Club is a Virtual Networking Organization. There are no membership dues, bureaucracy, committee assignments, organizational duties, or fees to pay. We are a grassroots alternative to the historic downtown chambers of commerce.Our sponsors include Cha Cha's Fine Mexican Cuisine and The Hartford Insurance from Luxor Insurance Services. ________________________________________________

Walker Report blogs for the 3,800th time in two years

Steve Walker (9photo)

Walker Report Publisher

One more time the Walker Report sets the record by postng for the 3,800th time in two years. We just keep on, keepin on! Every time we set the record, we tell you about what we have accomplished in the past and what we hope we will accomplish in the future.

As you are reminded time and time again ad infinitem, we are a family-values oriented blog that does not promote alcohol, smoking, untoward behavior, graphic visuals, gottcha photos and trash talk.

We spell this out when we hit those milestones, not to preach, but to remind everyone what we perceive our mission to be and that is good positive photos that uplift everyone, rather than present a negative presentation.

We cover both Republican and Democrat as equally as possible, Christian, non-Christian, Jews & Muslims, secular, sports, neighborhoods, fundraisers, and the news that the mainstream media sometimes forgets to highlight. We even cover the media!

Without going into our long spiel on how we dare to make a difference, let's just say again, "We continue to keep on, keepin on!"

Steve Walker

Waker Report Publisher

A message from State Rep. Mike Villarreal on victim services

State Rep. Mike Villarreal
www.leaderslisten.org
Workshop with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Join us and staff from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to learn more about victim services, the inmate commissary fund, rehabilitation and reentry programs, adult probation, and more.

Wednesday, July 2nd
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Beacon Hill Presbyterian Church, 1101 W. Woodlawn Ave (corner of Michigan)

The workshop is free and refreshments are provided. More information is available on our website.

Please R.S.V.P. to toni.serna@house.state.tx.us or (210) 734-8937.

Walker, qualified candidate for Justice of the Peace, Pct. 2, Pl. 1

Steve Walker (photo caricature)

Councilman, Viet Nam Veteran, Union President, & Photoblog Publisher

Walker says, "Truancy is out of control and we must stop the bleeding now!" Walker points out that it is time to turn the corner on the truancy problem confronting our students before it gets out of hand and unmanageable.

“We must pinpoint the cause, redirect & refocus to take steps to remedy the situation and ensure our children have a future. It is time to think outside the box.

“That includes creative community service and working more closely with the school districts to ensure that students stay in school.

“It is counterproductive to see a student in JP court who is cited for something as frivolous as sleeping when more serious infractions occur that need to be addressed.

“As a Justice of the Peace, it is also my duty to rule on evictions, small claims and traffic tickets.

“Everyone who comes to my court will be afforded respect and the opportunity to have their case heard in an unbiased manner with no predisposition to their guilt or innocence."

People’s Court

JP Court has traditionally been the People’s Court where the Judge is and has been an active participant in the community. Walker fits the bill.

Viet Nam Vet

An Army Reservist for 30 years, Walker served in Viet Nam in 1970-71, activated for Desert Storm for 6 mos. @ the Pentagon in 1991 as a Public Affairs Specialist, and was assigned to the Pentagon for 12 years.

He also served 8 years on the Balcones Heights City Council where as a fiscal conservative he is on record voting four times against raising property taxes. He served as Mayor Pro Tem under two Mayors.

He also served as President of the San Antonio Junior Chamber of Commerce, Harlandale Federation of Teachers, (HFT) & is currently Publisher of the Walker Report, an internet family values oriented blog. www.walkerreport.net.

A grandfather of four, Walker is periodically a featured guest on the 550 KTSA Radio Talk Show, "Gang of Four," with host Jack Riccardi and he is an active member of the Northwest Church of Christ. He volunteers two days a week distributing Social Security disability checks to the homeless and near homeless.

JP 2 jurisdiction includes the Northeast ISD, Edgewood ISD, San Antonio ISD & Northside ISD. He taught in the first three districts listed and serves as an Adjunct Instructor for Wayland Baptist University overseeing student teachers in NSISD.

The cities of Helotes, Grey Forest, Leon Valley, Olmos Park & Balcones Heights are also part of JP Court 2, along with the St. Mary's University area, & segments of Council District 1, 6, 7. & 8.

Educational Background includes: a Master’s Degree in Education, (University of the Incarnate Word-San Antonio) Bachelor’s Degree in Speech/English from Texas Wesleyan University, (Ft. Worth) Military trained Broadcast /Print Photojournalist @ the Defense Information School @ Ft. Ben Harrison, Ind.

Mini-Bio:

Born in Evansville, Indiana, September 5th, 1946 to a Jewish father & Catholic mother. Oldest of six sons who attended Catholic & Public School. (St. Gregory's Catholic School in Balcones Heights) Backpacked 26 countries as a young man and participated in two evangelical missionary trips to Central America & Mexico. He was a reporter for the Express-News in 1979 & a reporter for KENS-5 Eyewitness News in 1982.

Political Ad to elect Democrat Steve Walker, JP Pct. 2, Pl. 1, Treas. Joe Linson

Endorsed by:
S.A. Firefighters
AFL-CIO
Communications Workers of America (CWA)
Stonewall Democrats
Bexar County Young Democrats
Northeast Democrats
SA Toll Party (normally only State Rep. candidates or higher receive endorsement)
More endorsements pending

International Graffiti Expert Victoria Wilson Merritt speaks

L-R: Speaker & author Victoria Wilson-Merritt autographs her book, Harlandale ISD Public Information Officer Pete Barcenas, Dir. of SA Housing & Neighborhood Services Department David Garza, Anti-Graffiti Task Force Chair Ramon Mendez, attendees, volunteers, slide presentation, Dawn Larrios reading "Graffiti in Tahiti," book

The City of San Antonio Housing & Neighborhood Services Department Graffiti Abatement Program sponsored International Graffiti Expert Victoria Wilson -Merritt, June 28th @ the Carver Community Cultural Center on Hackberry.

Wilson-Merritt's topic: "Graffiti is Everyone's Problem: A New Approach to Graffiti Education." There was also a reading of "Graffiti in Tahiti" by Special Assistant to Mayor Phil Hardberger, Dawn Larrios. Wilson-Merritt autographed the book at the end of the workshop.

Coffee with Congressman Ciro Rodriguez, July 1st @ 8 a.m.

Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez invites you to have coffee with your Congressman

Stop by to talk about the issues that are important to youand to hear what's new in Congress.
Next Coffee with the Congressman: West San Antonio
Tuesday July 1st
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
410 West Loop 1604 @ Potranco Road
in West San Antonio
8-9 a.m.
Click here to let your friends know about Coffee with Your Congressman.

Joe Farias fundraiser @American Legion draws crowd

L-R: State Rep. Joe Farias, & wife, Angie, son, Daniel, grandson, Judge Peter Sakai, Commissioner Tommy Adkisson, Congressman Ciro Rodriguez & staffer Ginette Magana, Bexar County Young Democrats President Jessica Ramos & former President Chris Garcia, Farias staffers Cliff Walker & Roger Garza, attendees, tee-shirt, sign, American Legion

State Rep. Joe Farias kicked off his Fall Campaign, Saturday, June 28th @ the American Legion Post 485 on Kendalia.

Pastor Richard Boyd shares his weekly video mini-sermon

This week’s video email from Pastor Richard Boyd!

rnboyd@minister.com
Please click on link below to view

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=c6216859c8fce3540434

Transportation Task force appointed by Mayor & Judge

Laura Jesse (photo)

Commissioner's Court

Public Affairs Officer

County, City form group to look at transportation issues

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff and Mayor Phil Hardberger have appointed an 11-member Transportation Task Force that will assess existing transportation plans and priorities in order to make local policy as well as state and federal legislative recommendations. The task force will begin its work in July and make a state legislative recommendation in November, with final proposals delivered by the end of the year.

As San Antonio and Bexar County continue to grow at a healthy pace, it is imperative to ensure the transportation systems are viable, efficient and integrated to support the growing population and lessen the environmental impacts. Rising fuel prices, the overall economic downturn throughout the country and stricter federal pollution standards make the work of the task force even more critical and timely.

"We've learned that when this community works together on something, we can really get a lot accomplished," Judge Wolff said. “We look forward to creating a model for successful transportation planning that can take us well into the future.”

The task force’s scope of work will specifically cover existing transportation plans and priorities, modes of travel, financing options, and regulatory and legislative contexts. The group also will compare this community’s transportation system to comparable regions in the state and country, critically review existing plans and investment priorities and provide a set of “next steps” for local transportation agencies.

The task force will work with support from the staffs of the County, City, San Antonio Mobility Coalition, Alamo Area Council of Governments, Texas Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Planning Organization, Regional Mobility Authority and VIA Metropolitan Transit.

The members of the task force are:
● Hope Andrade, former chairwoman of the Texas Transportation Commission
● Bill Barker, Sierra Club and Green Space Alliance member
● Mary Briseno, VIA board member
● Jack Leonhardt, AACOG board I and mayor of City of Windcrest
● James Lifshutz, VIA board member
● Terrell McCombs, San Antonio Mobility Coalition chairman
● Richard Perez, Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce president/CEO and former city councilman
● Rick Pych, VIA board member
● Jim Reed, Regional Mobility Authority board member
● Linda Chavez-Thompson, VIA board member
● Derrick Howard, CPS Energy board member

“I’m very pleased with the lineup of individuals we’ll have on this task force,” said Mayor Hardberger, who will chair the group with Judge Wolff.

“Developing a comprehensive transportation plan for our area is critical as we continue to grow, and we must do it together,” he added.

The task force’s meetings will be open to the public and resources and reports will be posted to a Web site hosted on the County’s site at www.bexar.org.

Play Golf @ Briggs Ranch during the 4th of July celebrations

The Golf Club of Texas @ Briggs Ranch
Come celebrate our nation's Birthday at the Golf club of Texas with a special 4th of July offer!!

Green Fee, Cart and UpLink GPS for only
$49 Friday - Sunday before 1 p.m.
$39 Friday -Sunday after 1 p.m.

This offer is valid July 4th-6th, from 6:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. and can not be used with any other offers or promotions. Gift certificates, bounce back coupons and special offers will not be accepted.

For tee time reservations please call 210-677-0027
www.golfcluboftexas.com

Sen. Hutchison weighs in on Courts 2nd Amendment verdict

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (photo)

Led Amicus Brief Effort of Bipartisan Congressional Majority

Washington –U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Texas’ senior Senator, applauded a Supreme Court ruling in the case of DC v. Heller, affirming the intent of the Founders that the right to bear arms is an individual right protected by the Constitution. The decision is the first major Supreme Court ruling on a Second Amendment challenge to a firearm law since 1939.

“This ruling is a major victory for the rights of all Americans to protect themselves and their families,” said Sen. Hutchison. “The Supreme Court sent a clear message to local, state, and federal governments that this individual right cannot be unreasonably infringed.”

On February 8, Sen. Hutchison filed an amicus brief in the case of D.C. v. Heller in favor of the respondent who simply wished to exercise his Constitutional right to protect himself in his home. The brief affirmed that the legislative branch believes that the Second Amendment is an individual right. The brief was signed by a bipartisan majority of Congress, including 55 Senators, the Vice President as President of the Senate, and 250 Members of the House of Representatives.

Sen. Hutchison and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) gathered the greatest number of signers on a brief to the Supreme Court in history. Sen. Hutchison believed it was important for members of the legislative branch to give its opinion on the legislative history and its relevance.

“This was the perfect vehicle for the Supreme Court to affirm that the Second Amendment protects an individual’s right to self-defense,” said Sen. Hutchison. “The Congressional brief documented legislative history that proved Congress has consistently treated the Second Amendment as a protected individual right.”

March 27, 2007, Sen. Hutchison introduced the District of Columbia Personal Protection Act of 2007, S.1001, a bill to restore Second Amendment Rights to the residents of Washington, DC. The bill has 45 Senate cosponsors. Its House companion legislation, H.R. 1399, has 245 cosponsors.

Reprinted in part from Texas Insider.org.

Perry comments on Court ruling upholding 2nd Amendment

Statement by Gov. Rick Perry (photo) regarding the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Upholding 2nd Amendment:

Austin – Gov. Rick Perry issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding Americans' 2nd Amendment right to bear arms:

"Texans have long held that it is a fundamental right of every law-abiding citizen to keep and bear arms. Affirmation from our country’s highest court should unquestionably cement this right for future generations of Texans and Americans."

Gov. Rick Perry speaks out on Jessica's Law ruling by Court

Statement by Gov. Rick Perry (photo) regarding the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Jessica’s Law:

Austin – Gov. Rick Perry issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Jessica's Law:

"I believe the vast majority of Texans agree that the death sentence is the appropriate punishment for someone convicted of raping a child. While today's opinion does not directly address Texas law, we recognize that our state is guided by the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. That said, Texas will continue to seek the toughest punishment allowable for the predators who commit crimes of this nature, including the sentence of life without parole that is also permitted under our state’s version of Jessica’s Law.

"In my opinion, laws should be strong enough to deter these unspeakable offenses or, in the least, prevent these lowest of criminals from harming any child again.

"As Justice Alito’s dissenting opinion says: ‘no matter how young the child, no matter how many times the child is raped, no matter how many children the perpetrator rapes, no matter how sadistic the crime, no matter how much physical or psychological trauma is inflicted, and no matter how heinous the perpetrator's prior criminal record may be,’ justice should be served."

Northeast Democrats Headquarters to open July 5th

John Courage (photo)
NE Democrats Chairman

NEBCD Headquarters Grand Opening
Saturday July 5th from 4 p.m. till 8:30 p.m.

Were having an "old fashion Ice Cream Social" with Hot Dogs, Chips and Soft drinks too! ( for a $5 donation) @ our new office location 7122 San Pedro, Ste. 114

In the San Pedro Town Center shopping center
(in front of the Dollar Tree store)
Obama Gear available T-shirts, buttons, bumper stickers, Yard Signs!

Open to all Bexar County Democrats and their families and to the general public

Free Landfill Disposal Day @ 5 designated drop off sites

Philip Cortez (photo)
District 4 Councilman

Free Landfill Disposal Day

It’s that time of the year again, time to clean out all of those unwanted items piling up in your closet and garage and take them to the City’s free landfill disposal day. Residents looking to get rid of brush, old sofas, mattresses, household appliances or even car tires (six tires per household) are encouraged to load up their items and leave them at one of the five designated drop-off locations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 12th.

No hazardous waste will be accepted.To take advantage of this day, you must be a City of San Antonio residential solid waste rate payer. Individuals must bring a copy of their most recent CPS Energy bill along with a picture ID to the following locations:

• BFI-Tessman Road Landfill, 7000 IH-10 East
• WM-Covel Gardens Landfill, 8611 Covel Road
• TDS Starcrest Transfer Station, 11601 Starcrest Road
• Southside Drop-off Center (near Camargo Park), 5450 Castroville Road

For brush material only, visit the following location:
Bitters Brush Recycling Center, 1800 Bitters Road

Residents are asked to cover loads with a tarp to avoid being charged a penalty under the City Ordinance #72272 Tarp-Law.

Tim Salas
Chief of Staff
Councilman Philip A. Cortez
207-5785 office / fax 207-7027
tim.salas@sanantonio.gov

Wurzbach Group to host breakfast, Wednesday, July 2nd

You are invited to our July breakfast:

Speaker: Justin Budd, CEO, Founder, JG Youth Sports NFL Flag football in San Antonio

Official Web Site
Date: July 2nd (Wednesday)

Location: Orderup, The Colonnade, 9873 IH- 10 W, San Antonio, TX 78230, (210) 877-0007 (Behind the Texas MedClinic)

7:30 a.m. - 8 a.m.-

Reception 8 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.

Program 8:45 a.m. Media Opportunities
Cost: FREE

On your own: "For breakfast we have locally roasted, Mexican Altura coffee, made from scratch sweet rolls, made to order breakfast tacos, breakfast pizza, and breakfast burgers, and fruit cups with fresh strawberries and blueberries."- Orderup

Event Sponsors: Orderup, J's Party Rentals & Supplies, The Walker Report and Luxor Insurance Services.

Creationism foes on alert after passage of Louisiana law

Bobby Jindal (photo)

Louisiana Governor

Critics expect similar measures to be introduced in Texas next Spring.

Evolution backers are bird-dogging a bill signed by Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal this week that some say will open up classroom science to increased academic debate and others say is just a back-door attempt to introduce creationism into the curriculum in Louisiana schools.

The “Academic Freedom” bill will allow teachers to introduce state-approved supplemental material into science classrooms. Louisiana lawmakers clearly were split over whether this was a Trojan horse for the inclusion of creationism or an attempt to create robust debate on contemporary science issues such as global warming, human cloning and evolution.

Steven Schafersman, president of Texas Citizens for Science and the leading foe of creationism or intelligent design being injected into Texas curriculum, sent out an e-mail alert Friday afternoon on the Louisiana bill, saying it was only a matter of time before a similar effort would be introduced in Texas.

“It looks like the Discovery Institute finally found a formula that works for them in its continuing opposition to accurate and reliable science education in the U.S.,” Schafersman said. “I strongly believe that (Reps.) Charlie Howard and Warren Chisum will be introducing the same bill in Texas in January. In fact, I’m positive of it.”

Reprinted from Harvey Kronberg's Quorum Report.

UTSA students to speak with Congressman Ciro Rodriguez

Kri Rodriguez (photo)

UTSA 1604 Campus

Public Affairs Specialist

Students to discuss concerns regarding funding for higher education

The University of Texas at San Antonio welcomes U.S. Congressman Ciro Rodriguez to campus to discuss a recent law lowering student loans interest rates in order to make college more affordable for students as people face increasing economic concerns from higher gas and food prices to job security.

Tuesday, July 1st @ 3:30-5 p.m. @ UTSA 1604 Campus, Main Building Room 0.208, One UTSA Circle.

Exit 1604 West at John Peace Boulevard and turn left into campus. Proceed towards Visitors Booth and attendant will provide parking pass and directions on where to park near the Main Building.

Contact Omar Hernandez @ 458-7555.