Richardson's Taj Mahal

Arlington has its Cowboys Stadium, a billion dollar pleasure dome funded in part by local sales tax. Allen will soon have its $59 million, 18,000 seat stadium for its high school, funded entirely by ISD taxpayers. Garland has its $31 million, 7,000 seat Special Events Center, funded by ISD taxpayers.

Richardson has new softball fields at Huffhines Park. One resident calls the complex a Taj Mahal because the grounds were graded for better drainage and the railings on the outfield fences are padded. A softball field with pads - Richardson's own Taj Mahal. Once again, open mike night at Richardson city council meetings doesn't let us down.

83 And Under

The Health Department of the City of Richardson conducts inspections of restaurants on a regular basis. The department publishes the results for all to see. According to the city, "Scores are based on a scale of zero to 100. A score of 90 to 100 is excellent; 80 to 89 is good; 70 to 79 is acceptable; and 60 to 69 is marginal." It's rare for any restaurant to be scored below "acceptable." Most are good or even excellent. Many achieve a perfect 100 score.

After the jump, a list of under achievers.

Outtakes: Down In Front

Before the game, Ellen suggested moving higher up in the grandstand if he wanted to take photos, but Mark was sure that this was high enough.

Berkner Football: It Ain't Over Until It's Over

Aric Stock: 89 yds passing, 77 yds rushing

From 2010 Football

The Berkner Rams learned that old Yogi Berra truism the hard way Friday night, losing to South Garland High School 24-17 in overtime. Berkner led 17-0 in the second half, had more first downs and more total yards, but still couldn't close out South Garland. What cost Berkner were turnovers (1 interception and 3 lost fumbles, including a muffed punt recovered on Berkner's 1 yard line that South Garland converted into a touchdown), penalties (including two ejections), and a prevent defense that allowed South Garland to drive 80 yards for the tying score with less than a minute left in regulation time. Congratulations to South Garland for not quitting early, taking advantage of every opportunity, and looking dominant at the end.

The season is still very young. How the Rams bounce back from this disappointing opener will be key to how the rest of the season goes. Next week, it's an away game against North Crowley, who lost to Irving Nimitz 38-20. There will be two teams on the field next week eager to register their first win.

The Berkner drill team and the Mighty Ram Band looked sharp. Remember,without the band, it's just a game.

To see more photos of the game and halftime show, click here.

Hey Boss, Can I Use You As A Reference?

Not if you are Stefani Carter and you are running for Texas House District 102. The co-founders of Sayles Werbner law firm, where Stefani Carter is employed, endorsed Carter's opponent in the race, incumbent Carol Kent.

After the jump, some conjecture on what it means.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

From 2009 Football

The triple digit temperatures have given way to the 90 degree chill of Autumn breezes. That must mean it's time for high school football. From the game to the cheerleaders to the drill team to the marching band, high school football is the best entertainment value around, bar none. Take in a game this season, or five or ten.

For a look back at photos from the 2009 season, click here.

My Apology For Thinking Bad Of Joe Driver

State Representative Joe Driver (R-Garland) caught hell a week or so ago when he was accused of double-dipping from the state -- seeking reimbursement for his expenses as a state legislator from both the state and his own campaign. Now, as other legislators' practices are examined, we learn that most state legislators are "guilty" of the same "offense." I put quotes around those words because it's not as black-and-white that anything unethical or illegal is going on as the original story would lead us to believe.

After the jump, the not so black-and-white details.