Texas Border Coalition to fight border fence plan

Group takes on U.S. Department of Homeland Security proposal

The Texas Border Coalition (TBC) has adopted a resolution to defeat the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) proposal to build a fence along the Texas-Mexico border.

TBC Chairman and Eagle Pass Mayor Chad Foster (pictured) said the group supports smart, effective border security measures that bolster growth and economic prosperity throughout the Texas border region.

Congress has authorized $1.2 billion for about 700 miles of fencing along the U.S.-Mexico border. This would include about 330 miles of so-called virtual fence - a network of cameras, high-tech sensors, radar and other technology. The remaining 370 miles, primarily in more urban areas, are expected to have an actual, two-layer fence.

Federal Legislation overhauls education financing

The federal overhaul of education financing signed into law by President George W. Bush last week helps restore the American dream of a college education for families squeezed by the skyrocketing cost of college.

The legislation, known as the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, will cut interest rates on subsidized student loans in half and Pell Grants will be increased. Overall, the bill will boost college financial aid by more than $20 billion over the next five years for students across the country.

"This is great news for students. There's no question that it will help those students who had ruled out college because they could not afford the tuition," said Lois Hollis (pictured), senior assistant to the deputy commissioner of business and finance for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

This new investment in college assistance has been described as the largest revamp of aid to college students since the 1944 GI Bill sent thousands of soldiers returning from World War II battlefields into the classroom.

State FY 2007 surplus swells; TxDOT funds to increase

The Texas Department of Transportation stands to gain some $300 million in funds after it was reported this week that the state ended the 2007 budget year with $1.5 million more than anticipated. Much of the remainder of the surplus will go to contingency appropriations in the state budget.

The state ended the 2007 budget year Aug. 31 with an $8.5 billion surplus, $1.5 billion more than Comptroller Susan Combs had projected in January. The additional surplus equates to about 1 percent of the state's $151.9 billion budget for 2008-09.

"State sales and use tax collections, which registered a 10.9 percent increase over fiscal 2006, have proved particularly robust, propelled in large part by vigorous activity in the mining, construction, manufacturing and trade sectors," Combs said.

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

This week's salute is to Penny Redington, executive director, Texas Association of Regional Councils

Career highlights and education: Two terms as Ellis County Judge; former partner in the law firm of Bickerstaff, Heath, & Pollan, L.L.P.; currently serving on the Texas Governor's Homeland Security Advisory Council, the Preparedness Coordinating Council of the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Preservation Texas Board of Directors; law degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law.

What I like best about my job is: I never know what new challenge will be waiting when I arrive at the office. Because regional councils are involved in many different program areas, providing a tremendous variety of services throughout the state, they are an essential link between federal/state agencies and local governments. Working successfully with so many personalities and programs often requires an innovative approach to problem solving.

The best advice I've received for my current job: When I started this job two years ago, one of my long-time friends told me: "The depth of experience and knowledge within the regional councils of Texas is truly amazing so do not hesitate to turn to those who have been around for a while." It has proven to be excellent advice.

Advice I would give a new hire in my office: Ask questions! Your initial assessment of a situation may not be accurate and only by asking the right questions can you truly understand its complexities.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: If I ever manage to leave early you will find me at the ranch...happily working in my garden.

People would be surprised to know that I: Instead of a career in public law, I would have been just as happy in a career involving horticulture or architectural design.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: I wish more people were aware of the valuable work done by the regional councils of Texas in coordinating regional responses in key areas such as homeland security planning, law enforcement training, social service delivery, 9-1-1 systems, air and water quality planning, solid waste planning, regional economic development and transportation planning. Regional councils bring efficiency and avoid the duplication of governmental resources.

Each week, the Texas Government Insider profiles a key government executive or decision-maker. If you would like to suggest a "Lone Star," please email us at editor@spartnerships.com.

Murphy named Director of Compliance at TDHCA

Patricia Murphy (pictured), an employee of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs since 1995, has been named the agency's Director of Portfolio Management and Compliance. Her new position includes overseeing the 38-member division and ensuring that TDHCA's business partners comply with federal and state housing and financial mandates.

Murphy began with TDHCA as a compliance monitor and served the last three years as Manager for Portfolio Compliance. Prior to joining TDHCA, she served with the City of Austin Neighborhood and Housing Services in the city's first-time homebuyer program.

Murphy holds a bachelor's degree from Boston College.

Texas Permanent School Fund shows strong return

The Texas Permanent School Fund, the nation's largest endowment supporting public elementary and secondary schools, was valued at $25.1 billion at the close of the 2006-2007 fiscal year, according to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

The value reflects a 14.3 percent return from Sept. 1, 2006, through Aug. 31, 2007. Because of the fund's performance, $1.4 billion will be available to help support Texas schools during the 2008-2009 biennium.

"Today's Texas schoolchildren are very fortunate to be able to benefit from this thriving endowment," said Dr. Don McLeroy (pictured), chairman of the State Board of Education. "The Board takes its fiduciary role very seriously and prudently seeks to maximize the Fund's return to also benefit the future Texas schoolchildren as well."

Border Coalition pushes for enhanced driver's licenses

The Texas Border Coalition is pushing for implementation of a pilot project to test the viability of enhanced driver's licenses. At a recent meeting of the group, which is charged with advising Gov. Rick Perry on how best to appropriate more than $100 million of homeland security funding on the Texas-Mexico border, coalition members cited the importance of the pilot project which was spelled out in recently passed legislation but has not been implemented.

The new licenses include proof of citizenship and other information that can be scanned to verify one's identity at border crossings. They also meet the requirements of the REAL ID Act, whose goal is to standardize driver's licenses in all 50 states.

The licenses feature Radio Frequency ID (RFID) technology and other advanced security features that make it harder for them to be forged. Additionally, they are less expensive than a passport.

McDaniel named to Texas Economic Development Corp.

Tracye McDaniel (pictured) of Houston this week was named by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Economic Development Corp., which supports programs and activities of the Governor's Division of Economic Development and Tourism.

McDaniel is executive vice president and chief operating officer for the Greater Houston Partnerships and is a former executive director of the Governor's Division of Economic Development and Tourism and former CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation's TexasOne program. She holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin.

Texas ranks third in securing federal funding

Texas ranks second only to Florida and California in the amount of money received from the federal government from 2000 to 2007, according to OMB Watch, a Washington-based nonprofit. According to that organization, Texas took in more than $1.2 trillion in federal money from aid and contracts.

The Lone Star State recorded $200 billion in federal government private contracts, ranking behind only California and Virginia. Among state agencies receiving funds from the feds, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) was near the top nationally for receiving federal dollars, with $2.9 billion during the first three quarters of FY 2006. It ranked fourth in the country among state agencies receiving federal funds. The Texas Education Agency was also a big draw for federal aid dollars with $20 billion from 2000-2006, followed by TxDOT with $14 billion.

Gov. Perry awards $9 million in grants funding

Gov. Rick Perry awarded a total of $9 million in grants this week. They include:

• $6.2 million in S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women grants to 80 programs that combat violent crimes against women and offer services to victims of these crimes
• $2.88 million in Juvenile Accountability Block Grants to 41 programs that promote greater accountability in the juvenile justice system.

Craddick appoints three to state arts committee

Susan Auler (pictured) of Lake Buchanan and Catherine Blaffer "Trinka" Taylor of Dallas have been reappointed to the Texas Poet Laureate, State Musician and State Artist Committee. House Speaker Tom Craddick announced the appointments last week.

The committee is charged with naming a poet laureate of Texas, a Texas state musician, a Texas state artist for two-dimensional media and a Texas state artist for three-dimensional media from a list of individuals submitted by the Texas Commission on the Arts.

TDA now runs state nutrition programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Nutrition Programs, previously run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, is now operated by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). The move was effective on Oct. 1.

The programs are part of TDA's Food and Nutrition Division. They include the School Breakfast Program and National School Lunch Program for private and faith-based schools, Summer Food Service Program, Special Milk Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, Food Distribution Program, Commodity Supplemental Food Program and the Texas Commodity Assistance Program.

$3.8 million in TETF funds awarded to four companies

Gov. Rick Perry on Wednesday awarded more than $3.86 million through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF), a $200 million initiative created by the Texas Legislature in 2005. A 17-member advisory committee of high-tech leaders, entrepreneurs and research experts reviews potential TETF projects and recommends funding for projects.

Companies that received TETF awards include Bellicum Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Houston, $1.45 million; Laser Tissue Welding Inc. of Humble, $160, 000; ThromboVision Inc. of Houston, $1.5 million; and Visualase Inc. of Houston, $750,000.

Two appointed to Texas Commission on Jail Standards

Irene Armendariz of El Paso and Donna S. Klaeger (pictured) of Horseshoe Bay have been appointed to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, which establishes standards for the care and treatment of county prisoners and the construction, maintenance and operation of county jails. Gov. Rick Perry made the appointments last week.

Armendariz holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Phoenix. Klaeger is Burnet County Judge.

Texas employers to get tax credits in 2008

Because the state's Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund has reached an estimated $376.7 million surplus, 370,000 Texas employers will receive an estimated $170 million in surplus tax credits next year, Gov. Rick Perry announced this week.

The tax surplus allows the Texas Workforce Commission to retire all outstanding bond debt a year ahead of schedule. A bond sale in 2003 allowed Texas employers to avoid a deficit tax in 2004 and kept an estimated $1 billion circulating in the Texas economy for job creation and expansion.

Wildenthal retiring from UT Southwestern Med Center

Dr. Kern Wildenthal (pictured), president of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas for the last 22 years, announced this week that he will retire in September 2008, but remain on the faculty. Wildenthal holds the distinction of the longest tenure of any current leader of a Texas state university.

During Weildenthal's tenure, UT Southwestern has more than doubled its faculty, and research spending has increased from $56 million in 1986 to $361 million in 2006. The campus has tripled in size. Philanthropic gifts increased from $11 million in 1986 to $166 million last year and endowments have increased from $40 million to $1.3 billion.

Wildenthal is a former UT Southwestern student, and received his medical degree in 1964. He signed on as a professor in 1970, became dean of the graduate school and then dean of the medical school. He became the institution's second president in 1986. An advisory search committee will be named to recommend Wildenthal's replacement.

Tarleton presidential search committee named

The Texas A&M University System's Board of Regents has named a committee to find a replacement for Tarleton State University President Dr. Dennis P. McCabe who will step down in May.

Search committee members are Dr. Denise Martinez , committee chairperson; Nancy Allen, a member of the Tarleton Development Foundation Board; Dr. Frank Ashley III, vice chancellor for academic affairs for the A&M System; Darrell Brown, senior vice president for business development at Town & Country Bank in Stephenville; Dr. Jill Burk, dean of the College of Education; Dr. Javier Garza, head of the Department of Mathematics, Physics and Engineering; Alexandria Guerrero, a student at Tarleton; Dr. Gilbert Hinga, assistant vice president for wellness and career development; Nancy Hunter, Stephenville City Council member; Erle Nye and Ida Clement Steen, members of the A&M System Board of Regents.

Eight A&M System schools to buy renewable energy

Eight schools in the Texas A&M University System, including Tarleton State University, are part of a four-year deal that should prevent more than 35 million pounds of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere, according to Joe Standridge (pictured), Tarleton's associate vice president of physical facilities.

The university system will purchase a record amount of renewable energy from TXU Energy. Fifteen percent of the energy generated, according to the contract with TXU, must come from "wind energy," as opposed to more environmentally challenging coal and other plants.

It's the largest higher education renewable contract in Texas, according to the Environmental Protection Agency Green Power Partnership Program. The cost of switching to renewable energy is about $26,000 higher per year for Tarleton, but planned energy conservation measures should offset the cost, allowing the school to stay within budget, Standridge said.

UTSA students willing to pay for campus parking

University of Texas at San Antonio students have indicated they are willing to pay for whatever it takes to end the parking congestion on campus, including paying additional fees. Students this week voted to institute an across-the-board parking fee of $40 per year that will also reduce the price of parking permits by the same amount.

Students hope to expand shuttle service to nearby apartment complexes as well. Money from parking permits pays for shuttle service, which many students ride free. The $40 per year fee would ensure that those who ride the shuttles would pay, just as do those who pay to park on campus. The 9,000 students who don't pay to park on campus would have to pay the new $40 fee and those who pay for $40 parking permits would see the permit price replaced by a fee in the same amount.

The issue now goes to the Board of Regents for approval and if approved by the regents, will not take effect until next fall. The proposal could result in additional revenue of nearly $200,000, which could be used for new shuttle buses.

Laredo Community College receives $3.5 million grant

The Laredo Community College (LCC) math department has received a $3.5 million Title V federal grant to improve the recruitment and retention of Hispanic and other low-income students. The grant will be shared by LCC and its partner, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU).

The grant also will be used for counseling services and computer labs and to help the math faculty with curriculum design and teaching strategies. Officials also plan to create an endowment fund for college students who have excelled in demanding high school programs.

Schools receive grant to increase diversity in agriculture

The Department of Agriculture at Texas State University-San Marcos, Laredo Community College and Southwest Texas Junior College have been awarded a $440,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to increase the multicultural diversity in agriculture through education and partnerships.

Officials hope the grant will create a path for under-represented students to obtain degrees in agriculture science and business and to qualify for jobs with USDA.

Texas Tech University's leisure pool to open next fall

By next fall, Texas Tech University students will be able to lounge in an elaborate leisure pool that student leaders have been planning since 2004.

University President Jon Whitmore (pictured) helped break ground for the facility last week, commenting that the development is the culmination of a dream come true.

The pool, to be located on two acres behind the Student Recreation Center, will include a lazy river, two lap pools, a tube slide and a 20-person hot tub. Students will pay a $10 fee each semester for the leisure area. The improvement is costing about $7.4 million and will be funded from a surplus in the school's recreation budget.

UTMB begins residency program in emergency medicine

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) has been certified to begin a residency program in emergency medicine.

Program Director Dr. Brian S. Zachariah (pictured), medical director of UTMB's emergency medicine division, said the new program not only will enhance the school's ability to draw qualified students, it also will help to increase the number of board-certified emergency physicians throughout the state.

The residency program was approved by Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the group responsible for accrediting post-graduate medical training programs in the United States.

St. Mary's receives grant for scholars program

St. Mary's University has received an $879,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to expand the McNair Scholars, a program designed to shepherd disadvantaged students to doctorates.

The program gives sophomores interested in earning doctorates the opportunity to do paid research in their junior and senior years, and it combines that with mentoring, academic advising and social support. The program serves 25 students a year, most of them poor ethnic minorities or first-generation students.

Nursing schools earn state grant funding

The University of Texas Health Science Center and the Baptist Health System School of Professions are the only two schools in San Antonio named to receive grants from the state's Professional Nursing Shortage Reduction Program. The new program has more than $7 million in funding to allocate to help to lower the state's nursing shortage.

The Health Science Center School of Nursing will receive a $500,000 grant to address its faculty shortage. Baptist will hire at least four more teachers, allowing the institution to graduate more than a dozen more students per year with its $81,000 grant.

Overley named Texas Tech System vice chancellor

Dr. Kelly Overley (pictured), former senior director of development for the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso, has been named Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement at Texas Tech University. She was tapped by Tech Chancellor Kent Hance to help accomplish his goal of raising more money for scholarships, faculty recruitment and infrastructure.

As the director of the Infinity Capital Campaign in El Paso, Overley has secured more than $80 million in less than two years from El Paso donors and helped secure the largest-ever gift to the Texas Tech University System, a $50 million pledge from Paul L. Foster, president and CEO of Western Refining, Inc.

Overley previously worked as a major gifts officer with UTEP and was the Director of Development for Saint Clement's Episcopal Parish School in El Paso. She earned her bachelor's degree from Texas Tech and her master's and Ph.D. from the University of Texas at El Paso.

UNT names Harris as VP for finance, administration

Andrew M. Harris (pictured) has been named vice president for finance and administration at the University of North Texas (UNT). He assumes his new duties on Nov. 5.

Harris comes to UNT from the University of Chicago, where he served as associate vice president and university budget director from 2004 until he was called to active duty in Afghanistan in 2005. Harris, who has 18 years of commissioned military service, is now serving as a lieutenant colonel in the Vermont Army National Guard. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Boston University.

Grant will help UTMB improve health care access

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) has received a $1.6 million grant from Houston Endowment for a pilot project to improve access to health care for the working uninsured in Galveston County.

The pilot project will enable UTMB to implement the Galveston 3-Share Plan health benefits program, develop an electronic medical record system for the uninsured in Galveston County and expand on the medical school's care management program.

The 3-Share Plan will provide small employers - those with at least two but fewer than 50 employees - based in Galveston County the opportunity to offer affordable, comprehensive health benefits to their employees.

Perez to head San Antonio Chamber of Commerce

Former two-term San Antonio City Councilman Richard Perez (pictured) is the new president and CEO of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. Perez succeeds Joe Krier who is retiring after 20 years at the chamber's helm.

The San Antonio native was selected to head the chamber following a five-month search process. He assumes his new duties on Nov. 5.

In addition to serving two terms on the San Antonio City Council, Perez also is a former official at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and a former Assistant to the Laredo City Manager. He received a bachelor's degree from Texas State University and a master's degree from the University of Kansas.

Five more Central Texas toll roads approved

Motorists in Central Texas should start saving their quarters as the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) this week approved construction of five more toll roads in the area.

The group approved the expansion of four existing roadways with free frontage roads along express lanes on which tolls will be collected. The other approval was for a new road in Southwest Austin.

The proposed toll projects include U.S. 183, Texas 71 East, U.S. 290 West, Texas 71 West at the Oak Hill "Y" and U.S. 290 East. Texas 45 Southwest will be the new road. The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority will operate the roads.

Three counties must team to win federal dollars

Washington and Brazos counties will have to partner with Harris County if they hope to win a portion of federal funding for a regional emergency communications system, according to Brenham City Manager Terry Roberts (pictured).

Entities in the two counties have been preparing an application for federal money to help pay for a communications system estimated to cost at least $20 million. The amount would come out of $33 million in federal funding for the entire state.

The Harris County regional radio system is expected to receive the bulk of funds allocated by the state, and Roberts said tying in a local system with it is a natural fit.

San Antonio health care industry shows strong growth

San Antonio's health care industry grew by 7.7 percent last year to $15.3 billion, more than double what it was a decade ago, according to a study released Tuesday by the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.

The study showed that the total number of jobs grew by 5,591 to 112,762 in 2006 compared with the year before; the economic impact of hospitals in 2006 grew 6.6 percent to $4.375 billion and physician revenue increased 3.4 percent to $2.7 billion.

Freeport mayor names temporary interim manager

Finance director Gary Beverly temporarily will take the helm as interim city manager of Freeport when City Manager Ron Bottoms leaves today to assume a similar position with the city of La Porte.

Mayor Larry McDonald last week tentatively appointed Beverly to the interim position. The City Council will consider confirming the appointment at its next meeting on Oct. 15.

Texas teachers honored with Milken educator awards

Three Texas teachers were among the 80 most exemplary teachers across the nation to be surprised this week with $25,000 Milken National Educator Awards.

Cindi Carroll (from right), who teaches math at Bowie High School in Austin ISD, Melanie Chambers (pictured), the lead math teacher at Cedar Hill High School in Cedar Hill ISD and Justin Singleton (pictured), a social studies teacher at Carver High School in Aldine ISD, also were honored in surprise assemblies at their schools Tuesday. A fourth Texas winner will be announced later this month.

The prestigious Milken awards, established by the Milken Family Foundation, are given annually to recognize and encourage effective educators. Texas winners are chosen by a committee in partnership with the Texas Education Agency and The University of Texas.

Nationally, more than 2,300 educators have received the award since 1987.

DISD program earns $3 million from foundations

"Dallas Achieves," a Dallas ISD community initiative to improve academic achievement and ready DISD students for their places in the community and the world, has netted $3 million in pledges toward its $20 million goal from local sources. Gifts of $1 million each were received from the Texas Instruments Foundation, Harold Simmons Foundation and the W.W. Caruth Jr. Foundation, administered by the Communities Foundation of Texas.

DISD Superintendent Dr. Michael Hinojosa (pictured) has his sights set on winning the 2010 Broad Prize for Urban Education, which honors urban districts that make the greatest improvements while at the same time ensuring the same level of achievement for all students, including poor and minority students. Hinojosa called the community's support "powerful and energizing."

The $3 million in funding brings the organization's fundraising efforts to almost $9.5 million. More national donors are expected to offer support once the local fundraising effort reaches $20 million.

New private foundation to aid San Antonio ISD

A private foundation has been established to help the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) achieve and maintain high academic standards. The San Antonio Foundation for Excellence in Education is a tax-exempt, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that can collect and distribute gifts.

Two San Antonio community leaders have provided $350,000 in seed money for the foundation. Charles Butt (right), chairman and CEO of the H.E. Butt Grocery Co., contributed $250,000 from the H-E-B Tournament of Champions, a charitable trust. John T. Montford (left), an executive with AT&T Inc., donated $100,000 on behalf of AT&T. Montford will serve as chairman of the foundation's board of directors.

Tax deductible gifts will be used by SAISD officials toward educational enrichment programs, staff development, recognition programs for teachers, students and volunteers and a permanent endowment fund. The foundation also will be able to furnish financial grants and scholarships to students.

City of Abilene to introduce new Internet site

The city of Abilene is preparing to launch a new Web site called ABILENE411 in the next few months. The site will contain 500 frequently asked questions, is searchable by keywords and department and has forms for reporting problems such as potholes.

City employees will test the site for several weeks to work out problems in the system before it's opened to the public. A team of city administrators has been developing the site since the summer of 2006.

Trustees set guidelines for bond oversight committee

Fort Worth ISD trustees Tuesday approved bylaws and work guidelines for an 11-member community oversight committee that will monitor the proposed $593.6 million school bond package if voters approve it on Nov. 6.

District Superintendent Melody Johnson (pictured) would nominate committee members for school board approval. To qualify, committee members would need expertise in such fields as architecture, engineering, construction, financial management, land development, public agency coordination, labor and construction law, work force and economic development or parent leadership.

The proposed bond package would finance the construction of six new schools, renovations to eight schools, upgrades at athletic facilities and technology equipment.

Random steroid testing of student athletes to begin

The University Interscholastic League's (UIL) random steroid testing program for Texas high school athletes is scheduled to begin in three weeks.

A bill requiring UIL athletes to be tested for steroid use was passed in the last legislative session. The measure is designed to eradicate steroid use among athletes at Texas' 1,246 public high schools.

The Legislature set aside $6 million to test as many as 25,000 of the estimated 740,000 student athletes within the next two years.

Arlington school district adding gang intervention staff

The Arlington Independent School District is planning to add seven new staff members to coordinate gang intervention activities at six high schools at an estimated cost of $200,000 to $250,000.

Responding to recent reports of gang activity in the Arlington area, district Superintendent Mac Bernd (pictured) has developed a campus security plan requiring the new positions that include six security guards and a gang intervention specialist. The positions will be advertised as soon as the job descriptions are completed.

Bronte ISD board to cut school jobs, incentives

The Bronte Independent School District board of trustees last week voted to cut 15 to 20 jobs and to eliminate the district's incentive plan. The district had been providing educational services for the young inmates at the Coke County Juvenile Justice Center, all of whom unexpectedly were removed to another county earlier in the week.

The move followed the Texas Youth Commission's decision to end its contract with the GEO Group, the company contracted to run the Coke County Juvenile Justice Center in Bronte. As a result of the TYC action, the district's enrollment dropped from more than 500 students to 340.

High Island ISD wins environmental award

The High Island Independent School District earlier this week received the 2006 PISCES Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for innovation in utilizing state revolving funds.

The Texas Water Development Board provided the school district with a $195,000 loan from the fund and a $105,000 Rural Community Hardship grant, which the board administered on behalf of the EPA. The district combined this with an EPA $292,000 grant to replace inadequate septic systems with a low pressure pump system and a constructed wetlands treatment system, reducing pollution.

"This project is a great example of effective cooperation between multiple entities that results in a great benefit to the community," said Kevin Ward, executive administrator of the water development board.

Cockrill takes Lockhart school district top job

The Lockhart Independent School District trustees last week named Jack E. Cockrill of Kerrville as the district's long-term interim superintendent.

Cockrill, an educator for 40 years, has held similar posts in McKinney, Gilmer and Kerrville. He also has been a consultant and long-term superintendent for several districts. He holds a doctorate from Texas A&M University-Commerce.

South San Antonio ISD may close West Campus

The South San Antonio ISD could save $3 million a year by closing the West Campus High School and merging it with South San Antonio High School, trustees were told this week.

During a two-hour board meeting Tuesday, Superintendent Ron Durbon (pictured) built a case for the merger. West Campus suffers from chronic low student enrollment, which makes it more costly to operate, he noted.

The money saved by consolidating the two high schools could be used to buy computers needed to prepare the district for state-mandated online testing. Trustees will vote on closing West Campus in coming weeks.

Texas has opportunity
to become nation's premier cancer research state

By Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.

Already known nationally and internationally for its world-class medical facilities and medical practitioners, Texas now has the opportunity to become the nation's premier state for cancer research and prevention.

When Texans go to the polls on Nov. 6, voters will face 16 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Proposition 15 on the ballot is one to seriously consider. It authorizes the issuance of up to $3 billion in bonds to create the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. The institute would support researchers as they seek causes of and cures for all types of cancer in humans and provide grants for cancer research and research facilities.

If approved, the amendment would allow the state to invest $3 billion in general obligation bond funding - $300 million per year for 10 years - in the institute. Up to 10 percent of the funds would be dedicated for cancer prevention and control with the remainder dedicated for research. The important thing for voters to know is that this will not increase taxes for Texans.

Bondurant joins UT Tyler's advancement staff

Derrith Bondurant (pictured) is the new director of corporate and foundation relations for the University of Texas at Tyler's advancement staff. Bondurant's will manage corporate and foundation relations activities, serve as primary liaison for the College of Arts and Sciences and assist the Longview University Center with its overall fundraising efforts.

Bondurant is the former executive director for Opera East Texas and has served on the Texas Commission on the Arts. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

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Ragsdale donates $1.25 million to Sam Houston

John R. Ragsdale (pictured), a Sam Houston State University alumnus, has given $1.25 million to three different programs that benefit former, current and prospective students.

In recognition of his generous contribution, the university's new gateway building will be named the John R. Ragsdale Visitor and Alumni Center. He graduated with a bachelor's degree 1959.

West Texas A&M receives science foundation grant

West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) has received a five-year grant of $570,491 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support talented but financially challenged math and engineering students.

The grant will fund scholarships for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S-STEM) that will be awarded in place of loans to about 20 WTAMU students annually, beginning with the spring semester in 2008.

Wi-Fi planned for Laredo International Airport

Wireless Internet service has become a standard amenity in airports from Los Angeles to Newark. The Laredo Airport Advisory Committee wants travelers also to be able to enjoy the convenience of Wi-Fi at the Laredo International Airport.

Providing Wireless Local Area Network Services at the airport passenger terminal is part of a plan to integrate Internet access, charging centers and television for enhancement of customer service. The committee has awarded a five-year Wi-Fi contract to a private Laredo company.

Operation Mend to provide vets medical treatment

"Operation Mend," a pilot program resulting from a partnership between the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) in San Antonio and the University of California-Los Angeles, has been launched to help treat U.S. military personnel injured in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Philanthropist Ronald Katz has provided financial backing for the program, which he sees as a way to increase veterans' medical care that is currently being provided by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and the Armed Services. The project features collaboration among the surgeons and staff at the UCLA Medical Center and BAMC. The Katz Family Foundation will provide funding for all uncovered costs associated with the project.

Ellis joining Edwards
Aquifer Authority board

Ronald Ellis, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel from Universal City, on Tuesday was selected to join the board of the Edwards Aquifer Authority.

Ellis replaces Bexar County District 5 member Rafael Zendejas, who resigned in August. The authority manages, protects and enhances the Edwards Aquifer.

Pablos to serve as member of Texas Racing Commission

Rolando Pablos of San Antonio is the newest member of the Texas Racing Commission, after having been appointed to that post by Gov. Rick Perry. The commission oversees pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound races.

Pablos is a practicing attorney who specializes in business development and international trade promotion. He holds a bachelor's degree and law degree from St. Mary's University, and master's degrees from the University of Houston and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

College Station considering bond election next year

Facing nearly $125 million in capital improvement project needs, the city of College Station is studying the possibility of a $60 million bond election in November 2008. An advisory committee is expected to be named later this year that will recommend rankings for projects before deciding what all would go on a ballot.

Chief among the needs for the city are major road and bridge construction, park upgrades and water wells.

County allocations cited
in payoff for Highway 121

The Regional Transportation Council this week approved the division of approximately $3 billion in funds to four counties as a result of the sale of the Highway 121 toll road. The North Texas Tollway Authority agreed to pay the state an initial $2.5 billion and more than $800 million in additional revenue. In return, the authority will be allowed to collect tolls on the road for the next 50 year.

The payout to the counties was based on estimates of how many vehicles would use the highway in each county. The amounts may be less than appropriated as part of the funds will have to be used to finish Highway 121. The breakdown of payments to the counties includes:

• Denton County: $1.56 billion
• Collin County: $1.18 billion
• Dallas County: $206 million
• Tarrant County: $84 million

Taylor school district to install cameras on buses

All 33 buses in the Taylor Independent School District soon will be equipped with digital recording systems to monitor student activity.

The $67,881 project is being implemented to reduce the incidence of student conflicts and to create a safer environment for the students. The video cameras will be placed in front and back with a voice recorder. A real-time indicator will show exact times of any incidents recorded.

Changes planned at UTMB for hospitals, clinics

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) last week announced that it will make massive changes to its hospitals and clinics in a renewed commitment to improving patient access, service and safety.

Changes at all six UTMB hospitals include easier access to clinics, filling prescriptions faster, new television sets, fresh coats of paint and better lighting in parking lots and garages. UTMB also has purchased additional medical equipment, including MRI scanners in some high-volume clinics, to serve more people and reduce patient wait times.

Gilman appointed to Health Professions Council

Tony Gilman of Austin has been appointed to the Health Professions Council which coordinates regulatory efforts among the various state health care licensing boards. Gov. Rick Perry announced the appointment last week.

Gilman, executive officer of the Texas Health Care Policy Council and the governor's liaison to the state health profession licensure boards, holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas.

Lumberton names new police chief, city manager

The Lumberton City Council on Monday promoted two police department employees - one to police chief and the other to city manager. The promotions mark the first time in the city's history that the two posts have not been held by one person.

Beginning Nov. 1, Danny Sullins will serve as Lumberton's new police chief, and Steve Clark will be the new city manager.

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Currently, SPI researchers have finalized their analysis of all appropriated funding for state government for the next biennium. The state's new fiscal year began in September and every agency will have new funds.

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UT Southwestern scientists elected to national group

Two faculty members with the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine.

Dr. Luis Parada, professor and chairman of developmental biology, and Dr. Thomas Südhof, professor and chairman of neuroscience, were among 65 new national members and four foreign associates inducted into the national organization. The Institute's mission is addressing national health issues.

Recent Reports

• "Comparing Texas HMOs 2007," Annual HMO report of the Office of Public Insurance Counsel
• Senate Research Center "Highlights of the 80th Texas Legislature

Event Links

• 2007 Texas Homeland Security Conference
• TxDOT briefings for small, minority-owned businesses
• Executive Women in Texas Government 21st Annual Professional Development Conference
• TWC Texas Business Conferences
• LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
• Texas Veterans Benefits Seminars
• Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events

A&M receives $1.2 million water quality research grant

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) this week awarded Texas A&M University a $1,245,000 grant for the continuation of agricultural research that improves the quality of surface water and groundwater resources.

The grant was among more than $11 million in grants that USDA awarded to universities across the country for research projects that address water supply and water quality issues.

OLLU psychology program wins national award

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) in San Antonio has received a national award for its Spanish-language psychology program from Excelencia in Education, a Washington-based nonprofit organization.

OLLU was recognized for a program that allows master's and doctoral psychology students to specialize in treating Spanish-speaking clients.

Given to three colleges nationwide, the Examples of Excelencia rewards institutions for programs that boost Hispanic college enrollment, performance and graduation. The other two awards went to Evergreen Valley College in San Jose, Calif., and San Diego State University.

Lamar University's Hopper, Cotten get extra titles

Lamar University has given additional titles to current administrators Jack Hopper (right) and Don Cotten.

In addition to his duties as dean of the College of Engineering, professor in the chemical engineering department and director of the Texas Center for Technology Incubation and the Texas Hazardous Waste Research Center, Hopper will take on the title of executive assistant to the president for industrial relations and economic development.

Cotten (right), executive director of the Office of Sponsored Programs Administration since 2006, will assume the title of associate provost for research.

Williamson County delays vote on detention center

Williamson County Commissioners postponed plans Tuesday to vote on possibly terminating a contract for a prison-turned-detention center that houses immigrant families waiting on deportation or outcomes of their immigration cases.

County officials had scheduled the vote because they are concerned that because the county administers the contract, it could be liable for the facility even though the county does not operate it. The T. Don Hutto Residential Center is a former state prison and is operated by a private firm.

However, commissioners delayed the decision for several weeks after officials with the corrections firm offered free legal protection and $250,000 for the county should it ever face litigation for its involvement with the residential center.

SFA dedicates Columbia Regional Geospatial Center

Ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremonies were held this week for Stephen F. Austin State University's Columbia Regional Geospatial Service Center. The center is the national model for a network of regional centers, delivering the most up-to-date geospatial information and tools for regional support of emergency planning and response, economic development and natural resource management.

The center, located in downtown Nacogdoches, also provides backup services, data storage and redundancy to other regional centers and serves as a conduit between local, state and federal entities. Dr. James Kroll (pictured) is director of the center. The network includes regional centers not only at SFA, but also at the University of Texas at El Paso and Texas Tech University in Lubbock. Another center is expected to be added at Lamar University in 2008.

Following Hurricanes Rita, Katrina and Umberto, the center provided emergency maps of evacuation routes and shelter locations. The center also provided mapping information following the Space Shuttle explosion over East Texas in 2003.

Highland school district goes high tech

With a new district technology initiative in place this year, seventh grade students in the Highland Independent School District (HISD) are doing their homework and taking tests on laptop computers. Fourth graders are using Palm Pilots.

During the summer months, teachers were trained on how to incorporate the laptops into their classrooms. Parents also had training sessions on the use of the laptops and Palm Pilots their children are using.

Over the next few years, even more Highland students will have classroom laptops. With the appropriate funding identified, school administrators plan for all students in grades 7 through 12 to have access to laptops.

A&M's Dickey elected
to Institute of Medicine

Nancy Dickey (pictured), president of the Texas A&M Health Science Center, has been elected to the Institute of Medicine, which is part of the National Academy of Sciences.

Dickey, who also serves as the A&M System vice chancellor for health affairs, is among 75 new members elected to the institute. She is the first member from the Health Science Center. The institute advises the federal government on issues involving medical care, research and education.

SMU wins $10.1M grant
to promote engineering

Southern Methodist University (SMU) has received a $10.1 million grant from the W.W. Caruth Jr. Foundation through the nonprofit Communities Foundation of Texas to improve how engineering is taught in schools and colleges throughout the country.

Geoffrey Orsak (pictured), SMU's engineering dean, said the school will create an endowment with $5.1 million of the gift and use the interest to help boost the institute's faculty ranks from the current three to 10.

The remaining $5 million will go toward an $18 million building on the site of Caruth Hall, home of SMU's engineering school since 1948. The new structure will bear the same name but will have more than twice the space.

SMU has designed engineering courses for high school students and has helped train teachers. The school will use some of the donation to incorporate the courses into middle and even elementary schools.

UTMB School of Allied Health Science awarded grant

The School of Allied Health Sciences at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB), in partnership with the College of Public Health and Health Professions at the University of Florida, has received a $4.98 million federal research grant to educate and train scientists who study the rehabilitation of people with such neuromuscular and neurological conditions as dementia and muscular dystrophies.

The grant is funded by the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research in the National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development and the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The funding will dramatically increase UTMB's research infrastructure, said Kenneth J. Ottenbacher, director of the Division of Rehabilitation Sciences and principle project investigator.

Isett, Harper-Brown appointed to Sunset

State Rep. Carl Isett (left) of Lubbock, and Rep. Linda Harper-Brown (right) of Irving have been appointed to the Sunset Advisory Commission. Isett will serve as chair of the commission. Speaker Tom Craddick announced the appointments this week.

The 12-member commission determines when a state agency should be abolished if no legislation to continue its functions is adopted.

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The Texas Government Insider is a free weekly e-newsletter detailing important happenings throughout the state and summarizing current political issues relevant to individuals interested in government.

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San Antonio hosts Texas Homeland Security Conference

Representatives of law enforcement, border and port security, transportation and cyber security, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, Texas Military Forces, voluntary organizations and the private sector will be on hand Monday through Friday, Dec. 3-7, for the 2007 Texas Homeland Security Conference. The conference is planned for the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. Sponsored by the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and the Governor's Division of Emergency Management, those attending will hear from a variety of professionals from organizations and agencies that exemplify the Texas homeland security goals of prevention, protection, response and recovery. Attending will be representatives of higher education, public education and health and medical care, along with local, state and federal government officials. Also on hand will be representatives of more than 30 state agencies that are members of the Governor's Emergency Management Council. For more information, click here.

TxDOT plans briefings for small, minority-owned firms

Small and minority-owned businesses in Texas seeking to do business with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and with the state will benefit from one of four upcoming TxDOT-sponsored briefings in locations around the state. The briefings will provide attendees with contracting opportunities and information on how to do business with Texas. There will be General Industry sessions that include specific information regarding doing business in the construction, goods and services, information technology and professional engineering service industries. Breakout sessions will cover small and minority-owned business certifications, resources for small business development, business marketing for state contracts and information on TxDOT toll projects. Each briefing will also include a Contracting Opportunities Showcase, an Industry Networking Session and a Reception. The registration fee is $25 per person. For more information and to register online, click here.

Following are the dates and locations for the briefings:

• Oct. 24-25: Beaumont, Holiday Inn Plaza
• Nov. 14-15: Corpus Christi, Omni Marina Tower
• Feb. 20-21, 2008: Fort Worth, Radisson Hotel Fort Worth South
• March 25-26, 2008: San Antonio, Radisson Hill Country Resort and Spa

Executive Women in Texas Government sets conference

Commissioner Hope Andrade of the Texas Transportation Commission and Claudia Stravato, executive director of Planned Parenthood of Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle, will be keynote speakers for the upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government 21st Annual Professional Development Conference. The conference will be from 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 19, at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. During lunch, attendees will hear from businesswoman Linda Larsen on "The 7 Principles of Powerful Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Getting to 'Yes!'" Other activities during the conference will include a silent auction, more than two-dozen exhibits and numerous networking opportunities. Proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the EWTG scholarship program. There also will be some 30 workshops that will provide participants with opportunities for hands-on learning and development of leadership skills for multiple career levels. The 2007 Woman of the Year presentation and reception will begin at 3:30 p.m. The conference is open to all professionals and is designed for those who work in Texas government at all levels or those in affiliated organizations that support the purposes of EWTG. For more information, click here. To register, click here.

E-records conference offered in October

Those hoping to reach up to 300 Texas government officials involved in the management of electronic records and compliance can exhibit at the annual e-Records Conference on Oct. 30, 2007 at the Pickle Center in Austin. Hosted by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission and the Department of Information Resources, this one-day event provides an opportunity to meet staff from Texas agencies and universities who may be interested in content and records management products and services. The cost to exhibit is $350. The agenda focuses on implementing a program for effectively managing electronic records, including e-mail, instant messaging, wikis and blogs. The featured speaker is Jesse Wilkins, who has worked in the document industry for 12 years as a vendor, user and consultant. He has worked with public and private sector clients to develop strategies, design processes and implement systems to manage electronic records, e-mail and collaboration tools more effectively. For more information and to register, click here.