TASK DEFINITION: Given a text, write a compressed version of it in a single sentence.
PROBLEM: In the Texas case, reports USAT, the defendant companies have agreed to pay about $15 billion over 25 years to reimburse the state for expenses it incurred in the treatment of smoking-related illnesses.

SOLUTION: In the Texas case,the defendant companies have agreed to pay $15 billion over 25 years to the state for the treatment of smoking-related illnesses.

PROBLEM: "Blue-collar residents of the outer boroughs, about TV shows such as The King of Queens and comic strips such as Dumb Bastards From Brooklyn ."-- Alex Balk

SOLUTION: "Residents found in TV shows such has The King of Queens and the Dumb Bastards comic strips.":--Alex Balk

PROBLEM: So the auction was almost like the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the convention, " Stack said.

SOLUTION:
"The auction was like the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the convention?"