AUSTIN - Barack Obama has a secret weapon in Tuesday´s Democratic primary in Texas, pretty well-known in these parts: George W. Bush. Not that the current president is trying to help the man who criticizes him at every turn.

Averaging from five to seven miles per gallon, it takes big fuel to keep those big wheels rolling. Topping off his ´94 Volvo, Temple independent trucker Donny Yates pumps about 280 gallons into twin saddle tanks. And with diesel prices running around $3.55 a gallon this week, the cost can get out of hand faster than you can say that´s a big 10-4. “You fill up a diesel truck, you´re looking close to $1,000 right there,” Yates said.

A green sea turtle found on a Texas beach and slated to receive a prosthetic flipper is receiving a lot of national media attention, but no one is keeping as close an eye on her as one Belton family. The sea turtle was found in June 2005 by Shawn, April and Allison Jones, who spotted the turtle while vacationing on the coast.

LOMETA - There are all kinds of quilts - some are made for show, others for comfort. The coverlets made by the Lometa Quilters are all about providing solace.

TELEGRAM ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR BELTON - After fulfilling the role of crown prince at a little shindig known as the American Southwest Conference Tournament, next up for Mary Hardin-Baylor is the country´s premier party: The Big Dance.

LAS VEGAS - Making his second visit in six days to Victory Lane, Carl Edwards triumphantly raised the glittering gold belt he earned at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. In a town known for title fights, Edwards emerged as a heavyweight contender Sunday.

HOUSTON - After their 15th straight victory, the Houston Rockets finally moved up in the Western conference standings. Tracy McGrady scored 22 points, Shane Battier added 20 and the Rockets tied a franchise record with a 103-89 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - Tony Parker wouldn´t allow the San Antonio Spurs´ season-high winning streak to end. Parker hit two clutch fourth-quarter baskets to highlight a 25-point, eight-rebound, seven-assist performance in leading the Spurs to their ninth straight victory 93-83 over the New Jersey Nets on Sunday night.

LOS ANGELES (AP) - New-look Lakers and Mavericks, same old Kobe. Kobe Bryant took charge late in the game, scoring 22 points in the fourth quarter and eight in overtime to finish with 52 Sunday in Los Angeles´ 108-104 victory over Dallas.