Our Viewpoint
All lawmakers need to put their parties aside

All across the state of Texas, lawmakers are making the rounds pounding their chests on the accomplishments of the 80th session of the Legislature.

On the successes, the lawmakers are taking full credit for their input or lack thereof as to a reason for the success of the project.

On the failures, the lawmakers are pointing their crooked little fingers at other people when it comes to fingering the blame.

It would be refreshing for a legislator to come back to his constituents and proclaim that he or she did the best they could do but in the end, it's all about politics.

This measure or that measure was not passed because this party or that party stood in the way. Not because the issue was not relevant, but because this party does not believe in that action.

It is rare when you see lawmakers make decisions that are for the best of their people and not for the party they represent.

You have to wonder what our founding forefathers would think of this government that now exists.

When your legislature heads back to Austin or Washington next, remind them it is "a government of the people, by the people and for the people."

Nothing more. Nothing less.

Roses go to….

t U.S. Army Pfc. Brandon Bobb, who gave his life for this country while serving in Iraq. Bobb returned to PA this week to a hero's welcome. He was already a hero when he left to serve his country.

t Track athletes Jim Ed Hughes and LaBoris Bean for keeping the Jasper area still in the track and field spotlight.

Thorns go to….

t Lack of bidding on the autographed portrait of the Jasper High School Class 3A State Championship team. Think back to the euphoria when the Dawgs ransacked the state tourney field and place a bid on this one-of-a-kind item. The money raised will go towards building a lasting monument for this championship team.