Welcome!

Remember, I work for you.  I hope that you find the information on this site helpful to keeping you up-to-date about my work as your representative for District 25.  Thank you for your interest in the business of the State of Texas. 

Sincerely,

Dennis Bonnen

In the District

I arranged for Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams to be the keynote speaker at our annual Lincoln Day Dinner.  Commissioner Williams encouraged the audience to speak out against injustices and summarized his message in a quote from Lee Atwater, the late chairman of the Republican National Committee, "People don't care what you know until at first you show that you care."  Sheriff Joe King was also honored at the Lincoln Day Dinner. Sheriff King, who is retiring after 24 years, is Brazoria County's own John Wayne - a man of such integrity and character that he is the epitome of respect.  I have always said that if people wanted to make a movie about the perfect Texas sheriff, Joe King is their man.  (See photos at 2004 Photo Album)

Through a collaborative effort, my office and the City of Freeport secured a grant from the General Land Office to remove sunken shrimp boats that have been creating an eyesore for the city.  This funding comes at a perfect time as Freeport dedicates its efforts to revitalizing and beautifying the city.  Upon receiving a request from City Manager Ron Bottoms, I contacted the GLO verbally and through a letter of support requesting funding assistance for this removal project.  In response, they were able to locate $75,000 of available funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  I encourage all communities in my district to contact me if I can assist you in obtaining grants for community projects.

It was fitting to celebrate Texas Independence Day Tuesday in Brazoria, where the Texas Revolution began.  I had the honor of addressing the Brazoria Chamber at their Celebration luncheon and spoke on the early heroes of this area.  Brazoria Chamber directors served chili, the official dish of Texas, and students from Barrow Elementary sang Happy Birthday to our state.  Citizens of Brazoria had a key role in the birth of Texas and I would like to see more tourism promoted to recognize this.  (See photos on 2004 Photo Album)

I was invited to speak at the Dow Chemical/GM luncheon following the unveiling of their hydrogen fuel cell technology.  This collaborative project is tied closely to the state's efforts to clean the air without onerous mandates on our residents.  I am proud that energy advancements of this magnitude are taking place in Brazoria County. (See photos on 2004 Photo Album)

My Austin staff welcomed members of the First Capitol Historical Foundation from West Columbia to the Capitol on Feb. 19 for Preservation Texas Day.  The Ammon Underwood House, built in 1835 in East Columbia, was named one of the state's 13 Most Endangered Historical Places at a news conference on the south steps of the Capitol.  President Beth Griggs, Fredda Medlock, and Polly Rowold attended the announcement, enjoyed a special tour, and visited with a member from my office regarding their efforts to raise funds to move the house to a safer location away from the Brazos River.  I encourage all of my constituents to visit my Capitol office any time they are in Austin. 

I recently addressed members of the Brazoria County Medical Society at their February meeting, along with Congressman Ron Paul and Senator Kyle Janek. A key focus was the implementation of the Prompt Pay Bill, which I sponsored this past session.  Texas HMOs owe billions in unpaid bills and physicians should be paid on time and in full.  A business cannot operate successfully if contract rates can be re-negotiated after services or goods are delivered. 

I was invited to speak to Angleton ISD School Food Service Association members at their monthly meeting.  Child nutrition is a big issue in the state and nation today and food service employees are on the front lines educating children about good eating habits.  Recent studies show 31 percent of Texas children to be overweight, with more developing Type II diabetes.  By helping children make good food choices, food service workers can help our children become healthy adults.  (See photos at 2004 Photo Album) 

I met with members of the Brazoria County CrimeStoppers at their recent Saturday seminar to discuss available state funding and the grant application process.  Recognizing the value of this organization in our community, I authored legislation in 2001 that allowed more money for their administrative costs.  Brazoria County is very fortunate to have one of the best CrimeStoppers programs in the state of Texas.  I am especially proud of the success it has had in our local schools.  This joint effort of law enforcement agencies and schools plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe and they are to be commended for their hard work.

Congratulations: