This weekend we attended a workshop in Bastrop hosted by Independent Texans primarily to lay plans to work against the Trans Texas Corridor.
These people represented some of the most powerful minds in the political arena from groups all across the state. Those of us present busted with pride to see how high we ranked in the esteem of such a crowd. I believe a strong coalition will develop as a result of this meeting.
Saturday’s meeting was held at a Motel called Loblolly Pines., a beautifully landscaped 38 acre tract of land with all we could possibly need in the way of conveniences to host events. Swimming pool, meeting room, small restaurant with outstanding food, volleyball courts and a giant band stand with 4000 watt speaker systems to list some amenities.
And last but not least an owner who recognized me as I sat at a picnic table catching my breath and came over to let me know he is biker friendly and if I ever found myself needing a place for a meeting or anything else his place was available. I’m sure we will be seeing more of him and Loblolly Pines.
There were several workshops and speakers spanning 11 hours on Saturday at which time the audience had time to interact with the speakers. The final session was:
SPECIAL INTERESTS HIT A ROADBLOCK – THE PEOPLE OF TEXAS
Sputnik, Texas Motorcycle Rights Association Chris Hammel, Blackland Coalition David Rogers, Texas Legal Foundation Linda Curtis, Independent Texans And added to this panel was Bill Addington of Sierra Blanca
What an honor for TMRA 2 to be asked to sit in with this group of those who have fought the special interest and won. I was yet to learn what a great personal honor and an uplifting experience it would be for me personally.
Bill Addington was asked to speak first about his 8 year battle to save his ranch in Sierra Blanca, founded by his ancestors, from being turned into a Toxic Waste Dump. He fought Hudspeth County officials, the Federal Government and the Mafia, turned loose on him with government blessings, to a standstill and WON !!!
This quiet unassuming man related stories of stress and persecution never experienced by average men or even by those considered to be great men in every day life nor in battlefield combat. He spoke of death threats and of racing down the highway at top speed while being fired on and receiving as many as 4 bullet holes in his vehicle. His wife took their child and left him because she couldn’t take it any more. His key to victory? Nothing is a done deal. You just have to believe that you can win.
Bill Addington is a true Hero. A man I would gladly follow to Hell to make changes if the opportunity arises and I am certain it has. What does he say to this as we sit at that table together?
The greatest thing he has ever seen in his life was the front page of the El Paso Times the day after the Democrat State Convention with Sputnik standing on the stage confronting Molly Beth Malcom and the headlines reading BIKERS STORM THE STAGE. Sputnik became a hero to him.
At a time when my personal health and my faith are at an all time low God sent me Bill. BY the end of the day I was breathing without oxygen. BY spending quality time with this man again on Sunday I once again believe.
Thanks to Bill Addington for coming into my life. I once again believe.
Now bring it on I am ready for victory.
Sputnik
