“Our democratic system of government depends upon transparency and openness – this backroom deal goes too far and must be challenged because Texas deserves better.”

– Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott on the Senate’s Health Care Bill

Provision, which he believes appears to give Nebraska a permanent exemption from paying the Medicaid expenses all other states in the nation will be required to pay

“The Democrats’ health care bill that was crafted in secret, packed with sweetheart deals to get their 60 votes, and rushed through, was passed [Dec. 24] in a strictly partisan vote.  This disastrous bill will raise taxes on American families and businesses, impose mandates on individuals and states, and add trillions to the cost of health care.”

– U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison on the Senate Passage of Democrats’ Health Care Bill

“As one of America’s most decorated veterans, Colonel Howard inspired everyone he met to consider their own commitment to our nation’s essential values, and was the bravest soldier I ever met. His unshakeable commitment to freedom, displayed in countless episodes of battlefield gallantry, lives on in the actions of our military men and women who continue to serve in hostile conditions overseas.”

– Gov. Rick Perry regarding the passing of Col. Robert L. Howard, one of the United States’ most decorated soldiers, who passed away Dec. 23

“Decide now what you want in life. Once it’s written down there’s something about choosing and writing your goals. Not things that come and go, but qualities that would sustain you for life. Make a decision now about what kind of legacy you want to leave.”

– Pflugerville author Wendy Soria, who recently launched a series of prompt-journals