The Colony Courier-Leader (The Colony, Tex.), Vol. 17, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 6, 1999 Page: 6 of 37
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The Colony Courier-Leader
Thursday, May 6, 1999 — www.colonycourier.com
INIONS
A
Pointing fingers
missing the target
I'm bGInnine
TO THINK THEY’RE
HYPOCHONDRIACS
'WAITING
ROOM
Jeff Ball is the news editor of The
Allen American. He may be
reached by e-mail
BallJ2@scripps.com.
at
It’s the
Internet. It’s
the movies. It’s
guns. It’s the
parents.
Clinton.
Y2K.
It’s
It’s
In the wake
of the tragedy
in Littleton,
Colo., there
has been a lot
of discussion
JEFF
Ball
about the reason two apparently
bright teen-agers would arm
themselves like a Third World
Banana Republic army and wreak
havoc — which they planned to
be even worse than it was.
These were clearly troubled
youth. Narrowing the incident
down to a single cause and result-
ing effect will never be possible,
because to do so in any degree
would require talking with the
two boys.
But, an effort to find a reason,
to point a finger must somehow
be a natural part of the human
process.
As a big football fan during the
season we would live and — ah —
feel really low — with the home
team. For the years we worked
with a magazine in Chicago the
home team was really ba-a-a-d.
We would watch the game and
then fall into a morass following
the inevitable loss. What helped
was replaying the game — over
and over — and fixing the key
mistake. (“Let’s see, if they just had
not fumbled on their own 5-yard
line when they were only seven
down they might have tied the score
and had the momentum to win
instead of being 14 points down in
the first three minutes. Yeah, that
would’ve done it...”)
Perhaps that is a bit of what is
going on now. We feel as if we
could just narrow down the cause
we can “fix it.”
We are in no position to criti-
cize this very natural approach.
For one thing, we used to do
something of the same thing with
Da Bears, and also because we
are ready to jump in with some of
our own musings on the problem.
This has been mentioned
before in the discussion of cause
— but shuffled aside as we look at
the Internet — whether enough
doors are locked to the school
and what the procedures are for
visitors to enter. (The group of
new policies, in which the latter
two fall, seem to miss the point
that the recent disaster was
caused by students, but they
reflect the effort to do some-
thing.)
They were lonely.
Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold
were very troubled, but first they
were lonely. They felt like out-
siders and were apparently teased
and taunted by those in the “in
crowd.”
How do we deal with that? You
can’t just tell someone: “Don’t be
lonely.”
It is possible to continue to
offer constructive alternative
activities for those who fall out-
side the athletic and musical loop.
And, maybe — starting in middle
school or younger — students
could be taught more respect for
the differences that make us indi-
viduals. It is a time when young
people crave inclusion, and mov-
ing in the wake is exclusion of
some to make those “included”
feel more so.
Students taught to respect the
differences of people might be
less likely to do terrible things to
their counterparts.
It won’t be easy. But if we want-
ed “easy” we could just blame it
all on the Internet, video games,
movies, guns, parents, Clinton or
Y2K.
VIRUS
VIR
VFW COMMMNITY NEWAPPTRO,
Election Roundup
Racing the trains costs Texan lives
Kay Bailey Hutchison repre-
sents Texas in the U.S. Senate.
The deadly
crash of the
Amtrak train
last March 50
miles from
Chicago
caught the
attention of
the nation,
serving as
another grim
reminder that
railroad/high-
KAY Bailey
Hutchison
way crossing safety is a life-or-
death matter.
Eleven passengers died when
the train slammed into a semi-
trailer carrying a load of heavy
steel that was sitting in the
grade crossing.
Once again, the message of
this latest tragic accident is: You
can’t beat the train. Don’t even
try. Trains are unable to stop
quickly. A 150-car freight train
needs two-thirds of a mile to
stop when traveling 30 mph, and
1.5 miles to stop when traveling
at 50 mph.
Texas, with more miles of
railroad track and more miles of
highways than any other state,
is all too often the scene of such
collisions. In 1998, 45 Texans
lost their lives in this senseless
way. Another 48 persons died in
pedestrian accidents on railroad
rights-of-way.
I first became aware of the
need to focus on this safety
issue when I was acting chair-
man of the National
Transportation Safety Board in
1978.1 helped to create a nation-
al organization, Operation
Lifesaver, to educate drivers
about the dangers of
highway/rail crossings. For
more than two decades now,
Operation Lifesaver has been
spreading the word. And
although highway/rail crossing
deaths are slowly declining, the
numbers remain significant.
The ongoing tragedy is these
kinds of accidents are the most
avoidable. In 1998, 95.6 percent
of all rail-related deaths in the
United States involved vehi-
cle/train collisions and tres-
passer/pedestrian incidents on
railroad rights-of-way. American
motorists are 40 times more
likely to die in a crash involving
a train than in a collision involv-
ing another motor vehicle. But
it doesn’t have to be that way.
Operation Lifesaver would
like everyone to remember
these safety tips:
•Cross tracks only at desig-
nated roadway or pedestrian
crossings;
•Observe all warning signs
and signals. Nearly 50 percent
of crashes at public grade cross-
ings occur where there are
active warning devices such as
gates, lights and bells;
•Never try to out-race a train
across its tracks. It’s better to
lose a few minutes than lose a
life;
•Be aware that trains do not
follow set schedules;
•Do not walk, run, cycle or
operate all-terrain vehicles on
railroad tracks and property or
through tunnels;
•Do not hunt, fish or bungee
jump from railroad trestles.
There is only enough clearance
on tracks for a train to pass.
They are not meant to be side-
walks or pedestrian bridges;
and
•Do not attempt to hop
aboard railroad equipment. A
slip can cost you a limb.
Texans share with Americans
everywhere an unfortunate ten-
dency to disregard these warn-
ings. A poll taken by Operation
Lifesaver recently showed that
45 percent of Texans are willing
to cross railroad tracks in the
face of flashing warning lights;
30 percent of us said that going
around a lowered crossing gate
“can be justified” and 20 percent
said it is more acceptable to go
through a gated railroad cross-
ing than to run a red light.
With our 10,681 miles of rail-
road track and 20,000 rail cross-
ings, Texans are at greater risk
than any other Americans.
By reminding people of the
very avoidable dangers inher-
ent in ignoring railroad cross-
ings warnings, I hope we can
change the high-risk behavior
Texans have shown in the past.
Whether you’re a risk-taker or
not, remember: You can’t beat
the train.
Manning has city’s cern, doing what he can. Jue for Place 2 May 15.
. . . - i . We believe that with Manning Cathy Wood
interests at heart in the office of mayor, The Colony The Colony
I have lived in The Colony for will see greater economic and
22 years and have known Bill community development.
Manning since that time. I am Manning is an honest and knowl- Manning steadfast
writing this letter to enthusiasti- edgeable businessman who could -€
callyendorse him for the runoff leadusintothe21stcenturv. IA support or comPICX
election May 15. Jim and Vicki Briggs I would like to lend my support
I have heard Manning articu- The Colony to Bill Manning for mayor of The
late over the past few weeks * Colony. He has repeatedly stated
issues that I believe are vital to Manning made in public and on record that he
The Colony. He continues to be a . supports the community complex
tireless supporter of this city. He impression on teen plan near State Highway 121 on
is an essential part of our commu- I have known Bill Manning Memorial Drive. He embraces
nity and has been for as long as I since I was 16 years old and I the vision and understands how
have known him. An active sup- would like to say that as a kid, it important this is to families, chil-
porter of our community, was pretty impressive to be able dren and the community as a
Manning has given many hours of to speak to the mayor of a city whole. He is the only candidate,
tireless volunteer work. He is sup- about concerns and for him to lis- who as a private i esident. spoke
portive of our schools, our organi- ten. _ out 10 months ago at a City
zations and our residents. He has He made it so easy for me to Council meeting in favor ot the
served this citv well with a win- ask my questions knowing that he complex.
win attitude for the city and its would see my concern and I believe he will do exactly as
residents respond. I was underage and he says and allow the city/com-
I feel that city government couldn’t vote, but then my wife, munity boards, commissions and
should be accountable to its resi- Misty, and I have not lived here in corporations to do the job they
dents, and I feel that Manning has The Colony until recently: howev- were appointed to do with no
shown in the past and will contin- er, Manning still seemed to care interference and as mayor take
+ 1 1: about mv concerns action to make these decisions a
ue to show in the tuture his dpouC 111 C01CC1S 1: • .
accountability and receptivity to Misty and I have found reality Manning is the leader we
the residents of this community Manning to be a good man, a need to propel us into the next
and to the best interests of those responsible businessman and an century and make The Colony a
residents advocate for The Colony. As new family destination for all of the
I encourage you to go to the residents with three children, we Metroplex.
polls May 15 and put Manning in would like to see him as mayor of
office for the future of our The Colony because we feel he
beloved city would alwavs listen to our issues .
Susan King
The Colony
Faith is measure of God’s love
Dee Cole and care about our concerns. City progresses
The Colony Buck and Misty Briggs under Watts
The Colony I have lived in The Colony for
Manning right 20 years. In that time I have seen
choice for Future Jue active many changes. But in the last two
choice for Tuture : . years, under the leadership of
The residents have spoken, or in community Mayor Mary Watts, I have seen
so it seems from the results of the I am writing in support of the greatest progress. New busi-
election on Saturday7. The City7 of Lewis Jue in the runoff election nesses in the city along with the
The Colony is ready for a change. May 15 for City Council Place 2.1 development of the 121 Corridor,
Manning has this community at have known Jue for 10 years and which under past leadership had
heart and recognizes the con- have come to respect and admire not been developed. I know that
cerns of the citizens. He sympa- him for his dedication to his fami- Mary Watts wants what is best for
thizes with the needs of our ly and to the city he calls home. this community. She spends many
youth; for instance, the jue is a graduate of Texas hours studying and gathering
Community Complex near State A&M University and was a mem- information in order to make the
Highway 121 is a dream of his and ber of the United States Army. He most informed decisions.
we believe as he does that it can has owned his business in The Former leaders have made
be done. It would take time and Colony for the past 10 years. Heis decisions based on who their
planning, but it is possible. He aformer member of the Planning friends or enemies are. This was
knows the youth have great and Zoning Commission and has not necessarily what was best for
needs in our community, served on various boards for sev- The Colony. Major businesses
Manning has great concerns eral organizations in the commu- were chased away because of
for the problems of Stewart’s nity. hardball tactics and pettiness
Peninsula — its traffic and keep- He supports a sports facility in from our city leaders. Mary
ing the park a paying one. He our city as a way of fostering orga- Watts has gone looking, search-
has already helped to make nized sports to encourage leader- ing, pleading for new businesses
changes and we believe that he ship, sportsmanship and team- to consider The Colony as a
will continue. Then there are the work for our youth and our resi- growing, vital city to place a busi-
Mark Urbanek is a resident of -
Carrollton. I
In My OPINION
By MARK URBANEK one can boast."
, After reading an article by And in Romans 3:28, he said.
James DePiazza titled True "For we maintain that a man is
faith requires action not just justified by faith apart from
intellectual belief” last week I observing the law." For yet
was troubled by some of the even more proof see Romans
statements made and felt urged 10:8-12, John 3:14-18, John
to respond.. 11:25-27, Romans 3:21-31, I
DePiazza defends the Timothy 1:15-17, 2 Timothy 1:8-
Catholic doctrines of “Salvation 10, I peter 1:3-6, Romans 5:1-2
by faith through works and and many more. The doctrine of
that “one must die in a state of salvation by faith alone stands
grace to receive the gift of eter- firm. God offers each of us the
nal life.” Having attended gift of salvation in Jesus with no
Catholic schools until college, I strings attached. If not, how
understand why he feels the many good works are enough?
way he does and agree with him How good do we have to be?
that works are an important None of us are good enough
part of a believer’s life. (Romans 3:23), but Christ paid
However, I began to question the price so we wouldn’t have to
these doctrines several years be. Once we realize this, then
ago and searched the Bible for we live our lives in gratitude
answers. My eyes were opened doing his will with the help of
by what God’s word said, the Holy Spirit.
Regarding the doctrine of sal- The Catholic doctrine of “one
vation by faith through works, must die in a state of grace to
the Apostle Paul said in receive the gift of eternal life” is
Ephesians 2:8-9, “For it is by misinterpreted and misused,
grace you have been saved, Jesus said in John 6:40, “For my
through faith — and this is not Father’s will is that everyone
from yourselves, it is the gift of who looks to the Son and
God — not by works, so that no believes in him shall have eter-
nal life, and I will raise him up at
the last day;” and in John 3:17-
18, “For God did not send his
Son into the world to condemn
the world, but to save the world
through him. Whoever believes
in Him is not condemned, but
whoever does not believe
stands condemned already
because he has not believed in
the name of God’s one and only
Son.”
Jesus also said in John 10:27-
28, “My sheep listen to my
voice; I know them, and they fol-
low me. I give them eternal life,
and they shall never perish; no
one can snatch them out of my
hand.” Once you have accepted
Christ in your heart, all of your
past and future sins are forgiv-
en, for no man has ever lived a
perfect life except Jesus. Don’t
fall prey to a false doctrine as
the Bible warns in Galatians 1:6-
9 and Colossians 2:8. Live life to
the full, John 10:10, and do not
be anxious about anything,
Philippians 4:6-7. Read the Bible
yourself to find the truth, and if
you have truly accepted Jesus,
your salvation is secure: you
have God’s Word on it.
Ridgepointe concerns such as
traffic and speeding on
Standridge. These are concerns
dents.
Jue will bring the council an
intelligent,
common-sense
for the safety of our residents approach to decision-making that
and we have found that if is based on the facts; he will bring
Manning is concerned about an a level of professionalism and
issue in our community, he is leadership to our council.
already acting upon that con- Please join me in supporting
Many Thanks
ness.
Do you want the poor decisions
of yesteryear or the informed pro-
gressive decisions of today? Vote
to keep Mary Watts as your
mavor.
Pam Leyerle
The Colony
... to the following The Colony Police Department officers in recognition of -
* National Law Enforcement Week, May 10-14: 2
Officers Kenneth Adams, Larry Bradshaw, Terry Farmer, David
re- Fitzpatrick, Michael Fox, Tim Goodwin, Stella Green, Ed Hall, Rex Lollar, w
Keil Moon, Michael Morton, Logan Stout, Ric Torres, John Whitley, Dena 9
Williams and Chuck Wood; Reserve Officers Russ Clark, Dane Crocker and
Robert Gill; Captains Mike Carroll and Chris Chandler; Sgts. Darren
Brockway, Craig Parrish and Paul Thornton; Lts. Ricky Hale, Andy Longo
sand Leslie Smith; Investigators Bill House, Chris Plemons and Richard
Renfro; DARE Officers Joe Hammond and Chris Vaughn; Chief Joseph Clark;
E School Resource Officer Bill Hall; Community Officer Mark Phillips; and Sgt..
5 Investigator George Wintle.
The Colony Police Department
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Watterson, Tim. The Colony Courier-Leader (The Colony, Tex.), Vol. 17, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 6, 1999, newspaper, May 6, 1999; The Colony, Texas. (https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth1621573/m1/6/?q=Lamar+University: accessed July 5, 2024), University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History, https://texashistory.unt.edu; crediting The Colony Public Library.