Thank you Sheriff O'Connor. Maybe now we will get some answers.

Thank you Sheriff O'Connor. I was beginning to think it would take some sort of a class action suit before we would have any idea what really went on with the commissioners. Their foot dragging and non-disclosure agreements are not a part of being transparent.

Thanks Pat,I liked the column...You know these Foreign service officials are not rich celebrities. I.e. Lieutenant Colonel Colonel Vindman was seen on TV hailing a Washington cab not a government limousine.

Wonderful program...except they are not crocheting, they are using a knitting loom. I do love how they are teaching them to use the looms, a terrific skill!

Mrs. Tally,

I also have a special place in my heart for diplomacy and those who practice it. It seems I have the same biases you presented in your piece, which are rare here in Gerrymanderville, at least for now. I still remember a time when our city was blue and candidates of both parties ran in local elections. It’s sad that the sheriff, judges, and commissioners have to run under a party flag, considering their work is or should be nonpartisan. Just wanted to thank you for your representation and perseverance.... Glen

Anti-left letters obviously refers to letter writers,not those who respond to them. I would know since I wrote the rebuttal. But whatever...

No, check again your Nov 15 post, clearly says "anti-left letters" and does not refer to orig writer. And I have no way to know what you read or when. Regardless your reply to orig author had no meaty sources to substantiate your "rhetoric" as you label the words of others Sf

Sad... Dixie was Abraham Lincoln's favorite tune. In fact he ordered it played while overlooking the ruins of Richmond, Va. after the war.

Mr Fiedler,...When I posted my rebuttal.my comments were directed toward Mr.Wayne...I didn’t read your comment. I distinctly stated “the author” which meant the letter writer. I’m fully aware that letter to the editor’s are opinion pieces as I write a political blog ,which is also an opinion. I happened to think that an opinion has more meat on the bones if they are backed by creditable sources otherwise they’re more of a rant.....That’s my opinion and This time ,my words were directed at you Mr. Fiedler

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"ultimate populist envy tax" is exactly right, and it's the love child of those who think "equality" means that nobody should have more or less than anyone else, and favor equal outcome over equal opportunity. Most jobs come, directly or indirectly, from the wealthy. If they're taxed down to the level of everyone else where will the jobs and our standard of living come from? Oh wait, the government will provide, just as they do in all those successful and free socialist countries around the world. LOL!

Does being shot once "near his head" mean in the neck or...?

Congratulations to the Mumphord family.

I enjoyed reading this informative editorial with all the detail. Thanks, VicAd!

Thank you,

Glen or Janice Ullman ....I’ve noticed that the anti-left letters seldom insert sources to substantiate their rhetoric. I present the opposition with sources.

That’s funny...Trump is the only person standing between freedom of the people... You must not have been watching today’s impeachment hearings. I’ve never seen a political party who has the executive and the Senate whining about being overrun. The author must not know anything about civics because one Political party cannot do a thing unless they have Overwhelming majorities. Speaking of the sky is falling.

I'm certainly not waiting to get a notice about dropping my email, I'm trying to switch everything over now. I can remember all those incredibly stupid Suddenlink adds on TV about being the only internet provider in Victoria but not acting like it. You have to remember, they are still the best wired internet service in Victoria. I called them several months ago about dropping TV, they offered to re-bundle my service and it would be $75.00 cheaper and the service would remain the same.

Teachers are educators not law-enforcement. In the shooting Incidents I have read about ,First responders have answered rather quickly. I worry about crossfire, extra people with guns that law-enforcement will have to sort out on arrival, and a false sense of security.

"Putting weapons in schools isn’t the best solution."

In your opinion it isn't the best solution. Since the concept hasn't been tested we don't know if it's the best solution or not. I can tell you that you can teach a person how to handle a situation, how to shoot and how to be aware of your surroundings; they just have to WANT to learn it.

Why have the people comment at the Dec. 16th meeting? Zeller already said in this article, the ordinance will formally be adopted and (in other words) take affect on that date.

Very wise thoughts. Let us all voluntarily keep all guns out of all locations. And we can wonder why it took law enforcement so long to respond. As our leaders live behind strong walls and accompanied by armed guards.... the rest of us are on our own. Great words of wisdom, Advocate.

Very odd comment at the end of the article. I've lived in Shiner for 30+ years and have yet to encounter anyone "vicious". Perhaps another local source should be quoted in future articles about our fine city? Just my two cents ...[blink]

I also want to say that Tom Andrews is also survived by a beautiful daughter Jacqueline Shanahan and his 3 grandchildren. Cameron, Riley and Collin Shanahan! It's sad that in times like these families tend to become estranged rather then coming together to grieve.

I’m so sorry to hear of Walter’s passing. His friends from Bishop High School will miss him. He was always kind and thoughtful. I just hope he knew how many friends he had. My deepest sympathy to all his family.

I'm so sad! I can only imagine how sad his family is. Walter Landrum was a dear, dear friend and I always felt better after I talked to him. All he had to say was, "Karen, dah, dah, dah..." and I just felt better. Walt, as I called him, was so kind to me. He was an encourager and my confidant. We could talk about almost anything, politics, friends, religion, and he never judged me. I've been meaning to call Walt but never did. I trust that you, all his precious family, got to say your goodbyes. May God comfort and keep you all during this your time of grief and in the years to come, remember how precious he was! I will miss Walter Paul Landrum, my friend.

Read: Confessions of a Economic Hit Man.

I am truly so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. My heart breaks for all of you and especially her angel daughter! May God give you all peace and comfort as you go through your grieving journey! May perpetual light shine upon her!

Love u all. Donna shafer

I am truly so very sorry for your loss. Walter was such a special friend. Always kind friendly and caring. So many years of happy friendship memories! Please let me know when there is a service. Hugs to all of you . May perpetual light shine upon him🙏 Sending u special love and prayers

This might seem awkward. I did not know Carl W. Haenel, Jr., but in searching for connections to my father's side of my family I happened upon this obituary. Firstly, I offer my deepest condolences for your loss. I. too, am 64 years old, born in January 1955. My father was Carlton Hugh Haenel, Sr., Carl Sr's brother. I believe I am Carl's 1st cousin. I'd love to explore this side of my family. Reach out any time. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Hi John, Thank you for reading! We've heard from many of Dr. Nguyen's patients who have said that he is a wonderful physician.

Great story.

He is a wonderful doctor!!!

Hillary Clinton receive 65 million popular votes. So much for people disliking her. That’s more popular votes than any other presidential candidate not named Obama. Joe Biden was vice president in an administration That won two consecutive terms. Another words he’s a winner.

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Way to SANDCRABS

My thoughts & prayers are with the Guerra family during your time of grief and sorrow.

I share these feelings with you all, as I remember My fellow letter carrier and Vietnam Veteran. He was a mentor that gave me the perseverance and mental requirements needed for a successful tenure as a Postal employee.

I will never forget his trademark smile and wit, that helped make my day seem worth while.

God Bless My Friend and his family.. 🙏

Wow so upset to see that Ronnie has left us.Ronnie would always visit me at Lowes and have that weekly Nascar discussion.Ronnie you truly will be missed and will never be forgotten by me.Till i see you again my friend.

very well thought and stated dr. sage

If Mr. Torres is violating the commandments, surely he deserves the same forgiveness extended to the president, who has violated many of the same? I don't understand forgiving the president(because that's our Christian duty), but not forgiving others of the same sins? You can't be a Christian and cast judgement on one and not the other; we are called to cast judgement on no one, because we ourselves are imperfect sinners. So this entire argument is sinful, isn't it?

I hear you Frank; whenever I ask similar questions, I get scripted talking points. You know the ones. Look at the stock market, justices and black unemployment.

You do have a couple of people praying for you in a “holier than thou “sort of way.

Gordon will be missed. His family is in our hearts and prayers.

Marshall, Elizabeth Bland and family

In Class 2A Girls, please add Shiner freshman Riley Rainosek. Thank you!

Well written Dr. Sage. Mr. Torres appears to be a angry ideologue.

Amarylis has helped and inspired all those around her who loved her so much.. . She lived a blessed, wonderful life, generously giving and doing for others…. An angel on earth, she is now an angel in spirit watching over us from above. Remembering a life important to so many…. “A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest...Amarylis is now in Heaven...God only takes the BEST! . : Love you always and forever, Jeannie Shelton (California)

"Happy Trails” Amarylis... “Until we meet again!”

Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of sweet Charlotte. May you find comfort and peace during this difficult time. Visiting Angels

Very well written.

I think Sgt Marr would make an excellent sheriff of Victoria county. How do I contribute?

Bingo!

Another viewpoint from the RW side thinking Democrats is a single-issue party(impeachment). Democrats have passed ~400 bills that Mitch McConnell won’t submit for a vote.

The best thing about the Democratic Party is their inclusiveness aka diversity. We will never be a monolithic party.

Same old message from the right, leave the wealthy alone; haven’t you heard of “trickle-down” economics. Sorry, but I don’t go to bed worrying about the wealthy.

Btw, you put too much hope in Donald Trump. Just today Trump was fined $2 million for misuse of his charity foundation. I’ve known of him since the 80s,he’s not

Pam and Starla and family so sorry for ya'lls loss. May he rest in peace!!! Larry Baker family

I will pray for you Mr. Torres. You have violated at least half of God's ten commandments, mostly bearing false witness. Probably because of your watching those bearers of that blatant false witness.

You missed the idea of the letter, probably on purpose.

Fruitless times? According to the Don things are the best they have ever been. He is the one and only, that can fix everything. He doesn’t need any direction or authorization from Congress or any of the institutions. His name is in giant gold letters atop his monoliths around the world. He is the one. Plenty of fruit everywhere, just ask him..... Glen Ullman

Can they be any more vague and keep on trying to slow walk this away? Some of our elected officials do not seem as concerned as their constituents are and it is suspect.

Seems to me (IMO) they raised the rates, so others would pay for the free care they're giving.

She was a great coach.. I often thought about her through the years fondly thats what an impact she had...caring...considerate but stern when needed...blessings and love for the family...

My Deepest Condolences. I always loved coming to there house as a child and Baby sitting your Mom's Mom while our parents could go out. Rest in Peace Eva.

Can we receive a report on what we do know?

How exciting is this! And perfect for FW Gross and the surrounding community, which is already making an effort to organize and improve that part of town. Such a positive move forward for VISD and Victoria.

Should be "councilors,"

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/washington-free-beacon-funded-initial-fusion-gps-anti-trump-research-dossier...

Sandidge’s cut and paste left out a key part “ The Washington Free Beacon is an American conservative political journalism website launched in 2012.” Meaning it’s RW confirmation bias...I call it a RW rag

When I lived in Amarillo, Suddenlink's service was exceptional. The service here was good, but never as good as in Amarillo, but I figured it was an infrastructure issue. Then Altice took over and the service and responsiveness is abysmal. I am not sure how the City Council can address this, but I hope it can. I'd love to see a competitor; or, see the city pressure Altice.

Exactly.

Correction... Not from NPR.

"The Washington Free Beacon is a privately owned, for-profit online newspaper that began publication on February 7, 2012. Dedicated to uncovering the stories that the powers that be hope will never see the light of day, the Free Beacon produces in-depth investigative reporting on a wide range of issues, including public policy, government affairs, international security, and media. Whether it’s exposing cronyism, finding out just who is shaping our domestic and foreign policy and why, or highlighting the threats to American security and peace in a dangerous world, the Free Beacon is committed to serving the public interest by reporting news and information that is not being fully covered by other news organizations."

If you are a registered voter in the state of Texas you are not a registered member of a political party. Texas does not register anyone to a party, only if you voted in a party primary do they denote the party you voted in.

Glen, because of the internet you do not have to rely on anyone’s spin of the information. Go to the source for your information. Need a Government stat - go to their website. Need to know the results of the 2016 Election Interference Investigation read the results of the investigation submitted by Mueller. My point is to ignore political spins and do the research.

Janice

Janice - "You will have to determine what is/is not true based on facts." -- Too bad it's not that easy. What facts? Whose facts? We get nearly all of our information pertaining to "the facts", directly or indirectly, from the media, MSM or social. Even in the Walter Cronkite days MSM had agendas and spin, but nothing like it is now. Other than personal observation of the reported events by each of us there is no way to know the actual truth of anything in any media. Everyone's opinions are based on a combination of possibly real facts, belief, BS and confirmation bias, especially in the political arena, Republican, Democrat or whatever. None of them are our friend.

Sending our condolences.

Thank you very much...It’s 100% accurate and every word can be easily substantiated. I’m going to print it and use it as a reference. I liked how your timeline and how the article disputes the GOP talking points

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless🙏🙏

I find it strange that you think the newspaper should edit someone’s letter. That would basically be censorship and there would be no reason to even write the letter. A good newspaper prints a letter or opinion piece and leaves the rebuttal to good citizens like you. I’ve sent in many letters and opinion columns and I would not appreciate them altering my content, liberal as I may be! The letter you are referring to was pretty mild compared to some of the distortion-laden gems that they print. Remember the falsehoods submitted reflect on the writer’s ignorance not on the newspaper’s. Thanks for speaking up.

Thanks, Jon. Both Sandy Cochran and Theresa Ramirez have devoted years to caring for pets in the Crossroads, This was an incredible tragedy and their hundreds of friends and pet owners are praying for both of them.

I know when I worked there, the second and third floors you would hear what sounded like the doors would close.This was at night, we would go look and nobody was there. Also it always seemed like someone was always watching you. The old tax office, you would hear someone walking down the stairs to the basement area. You would also hear someone or something making noises. One lady on the maintenance staff that worked in there, went in and left as quick as she could. You would also hear footsteps and hear doors closing, when they weren't open in the first place. Once in awhile you might see a shadow walking around.

Do you have any stories from those buildings?

Great point, Dr. Shepherd.

Exactly, Pat.

Exactly, George.

Seems like since Caterpillar came to Victoria, it's been one disappointment after another.

The old courthouse, isn't the only one haunted. The 1965 courthouse is also and so is the old tax office building.

I never see anyone working on it or work vans or trucks. Hope they are not closing.

Exactly.

I pulled up the column several times but I’m not seeing the disclaimer like the obvious ones for blogs. We’ll have to agree to disagree. I fully understand it’s her personal opinion. Thanks

Mr. Gomez, guest columns all carry disclaimers identifying them as such. We appreciate the contributions of all our readers and seek only to be sure others understand the difference between personal opinion and the institutional voice of the newspaper. This distinction seems more important to make now than ever in this hyperpolarized environment. Thank you for your contributions and for reading.

I guess people who write right-wing guest columns are more respected by the Victoria Advocate. They are allowed to spew their RW hatred without a disclaimer.

Whenever I post a blog,the paper goes out of its way to disassociate themselves from my views....Fair enough but excuse me for thinking impartiality is not being followed.

This is the disclaimer that is ALWAYS visible on my blogs.

This blog represents the views of the author alone and not the newspaper.

This content was contributed by a user of the site. If you believe this content may be in violation of the terms of use, you may report it.

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I don't know why there are no paragraphs in this post.

Thank you Victoria Advocate Editorial Board for clarifying those points. Again, I can graciously accept correction.

At the end of the day many of us citizens are ready for these issues to be finalized and addressed. I emphasized at today’s commissioners court that an external audit is the best course of action for the way ahead to get everything identified (good or bad) and take the lessons learned and put it in the play book for the next unfortunate event which is an inevitable reality of living on the Gulf Coast. I lauded the commissioners for the work that did during that time and I hope we can get a report put together in the near future and move ahead better prepared for the next one.

The new information presented in this story is the number of additional businesses that also received contracts with the county without any bidding or public discussion. The county commissioners have not yet announced they are resuming normal bidding practices, as required by state law, or referred this issue to an independent auditor or any outside body. For more on the coverage, please go to VictoriaAdvocate.com/airportissues. Thank you for reading and commenting.

Barr is a big part of the decline of ethics, legality and morality since he became Trump's 'personal attorney' instead of acting in ALL of our best interests.

The fishy smell is not getting any better. They need a spotlight shown on what appears to be "I'll scratch your back, you scratch mine."

Please don’t misinterpret my main point. Yes this is of a vital concern. This has been dragging on through the Advocate for months and we need to have an external audit done to identify all the concerns that keep being brought up. I haven’t heard anyone bring up a solution just a continuation of a saga in the Advocate that runs over and over again. We all want answers and transparency. Nothing new happen on Saturday or over the past week to warrant this as a top story, that’s just my opinion. These aren’t new developments.

Two weeks ago when I was at commissioners court several items were “referred” to committee so I stand correct on the terminology. I used the wrong term and take ownership of that. I can gracefully take correction. Best regards to you and yours.

Seriously? Move on because the World Series is more important than how our local officials handle our tax dollars? You lost my vote (if I am eligible to vote for or against you) at the first sentence. And, we don’t “table” to a committee. We refer. Look up “table” in Robert’s Rules of Order. Thanks.