Two-thirds of wind energy growth to be in Texas

Economic benefits for state likely to be far-reaching, long-lasting

Wind power not only has made Texas a world leader in clean energy, but it also promises to generate new, highly profitable industries for the state. The economic development benefits of the state's burgeoning wind energy production will be far-reaching and long-lasting, according to energy consultant Alison Silverstein (pictured).

The facts forecast the future. For the past two years, Texas has been the top wind producer in the United States, with 3,352 wind-generated megawatts installed and 1,246 megawatts under construction. Two-thirds of the predicted growth of wind energy production will occur in Texas. A large-scale wind turbine and blade-testing facility is going up just north of Corpus Christi at Ingleside on the Bay. Three of the five largest wind farms in the country are located in Texas. There are more than 2,000 wind turbines in West Texas alone, most of them on land leased from farmers and ranchers.

"There are so many economic ramifications to all of these developments, primarily new jobs, long-term community income and expanded tax bases," Silverstein said. "Texas also has a great future as a turbine manufacturing center, producing the electrical and mechanical components. This means good, high-paying manufacturing jobs that will be here to stay."

Texas voters to decide $8.5 billion in bonds on Nov. 6

Texas cities, counties, community colleges and school districts will be asking voters on Nov. 6 to approve more than $8.5 billion in bond funding for capital improvement program items.

Public entities are proposing fewer bond projects in the upcoming election than were proposed on the May 12, 2007 ballot. However, the total dollar value of bonds is actually slightly higher than the $8.4 billion proposed in May.

School district proposals once again dominate the ballots with a total of approximately $6.6 billion. Many districts, especially those in suburban areas of the state, need new schools to address growing student populations.

Other needs shared by districts include renovations and expansions of current facilities, new athletic facilities, technology upgrades, improved security systems, land acquisition and school buses.

Texas counties account for nearly $1.5 billion of the total bond proposals. Common county proposals include new and expanded jail facilities as well as transportation/mobility projects.

Municipal governments will ask voters to approve $270 million in bonds to fund a variety of projects such as street improvements, public safety equipment and facilities and parks. Three community colleges are requesting a total of $184.4 million to fund new construction and renovation projects.

Here is a closer look at the five largest bond issues that voters will find on the Nov. 6 ballots.

Harris County
The county is asking for an $880 million bond issue to improve county parks, transportation, infrastructure and facilities. Some $250 million would go to the Port of Houston for the Bayport Container and Cruise Terminal construction projects and other capital improvements.

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

This week's salute is to Betty Voights, Executive Director of the Capital Area Planning Council

Career highlights and education: Graduate of Texas A&I University, Kingsville, in journalism and business administration. After brief newspaper career, joined the public sector doing economic development, planning, and housing for the City of Harlingen for eight years. Joined the Texas Department of Commerce as manager of the Small Business Division in 1990; created the agency's Office of Rural Affairs in 1993; also directed the agency's Business Development Division before leaving in 1996 to become the second Executive Director of the Capital Area Planning Council, or CAPCO - renamed CAPCOG in 2003 to reflect the agency's role as a regional council of governments.

What I like best about my job is: It's never the same two days in a row; there are always new ideas, new initiatives, new programs, new opportunities. The elected officials are great to work with and it is satisfying to work with folks who are trying to make a difference for their communities.

The best advice I've received for my current job: Judge people first by their intentions rather than their deeds; for most people are well-intentioned. This advice actually was given to me when I worked for the state, but it applies to all jobs and life in general.

Advice I would give a new hire in my office: Have fun, stay challenged and don't become complacent - you'll be working at the wrong agency.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: shopping because I don't seem to find time to do it on the weekends anymore.

People would be surprised to know that I: wrote and broadcast news for an FM radio station while in college.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: What the agency does. Typically, only state and local government officials have an occasion to work with councils of governments so the private sector rarely hears about the work we do. When I make presentations to area business groups, they are always surprised to learn the range of programs and services we provide with a small staff and budget.

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.

TRS plan will pay millions to investment staff

The board of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas has approved a plan that could pay millions of dollars in bonuses to its investment staff and up the chief investment officer's annual salary to more than $900,000.

As the pension fund for Texas teachers faces a multi-billion-dollar shortfall and retired teachers have not had a benefits increase in six years, this plan that goes into effect next month will pay dozens of the fund's top investment managers bonuses of 85-125 percent of their base pay.

Board members Mark Henry and Greg Poole, both educators, were the only two to vote against the proposal, although there was also one abstention. Some teacher groups and some members of the Texas Legislature already have expressed their disapproval of the plan.

Doctors concerned with dropping immunization rates

The immunization rate for Texas children dropped 2.1 percent last year, according to a national survey.

The state's declining vaccination rate among children ages 19 to 35 months dropped Texas from 24th to 34th nationally, according to the 2006 National Immunization Survey conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"This is tragic," said Corpus Christi pediatrician Dr. Jaime Fergie (pictured), advisor for the Texas Medical Association's (TMA) "Be Wise - Immunize" vaccination program. "Texas needs to start going in the right direction. With low immunization rates Texas will see a comeback of once-rare diseases."

The survey showed that 74.7 percent of Texas children were immunized in 2006, compared with 76.8 percent in 2005.

"It's unfortunate that parents don't think about the danger of childhood diseases because of how well immunizations work, but it's dangerous to let down your guard," said Fergie.

Fergie, who specializes in pediatric infectious diseases, said that one reason the state's immunization rates are low is because many children don't complete their vaccine series. For example, the fourth dose of the vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis is recommended before a child is 19 months old.

TEF funds awarded; 200 new jobs coming to Texas

Allied Production Solution, LP, has been awarded $800,000 from the Texas Enterprise Fund to help the company establish its headquarters in Texas. Some of the funding also will be used to construct new steel and fiberglass tank manufacturing facilities in Gainesville, beginning in October. The headquarters facility is expected to be completed in 2008. State officials expect some 200 high-wage jobs to result from the company relocating.

The Gainsesville Economic Development Corp.(GEDC) also assisted in luring the plant to Texas. "The new jobs associated with this project are very high paying and the average wage is more than 150 percent of the county's average wage, said Kent Sharp, executive director of the GEDC.

Allied Production Solutions, LP manufactures steel and fiberglass tanks, separators, and various other types of oil and gas surface production equipment used by oil and gas producers to handle output from wells and prepare the product for the consumer.

Gibbs will direct Texas Commission on Arts

Dr. Gary Gibbs, former director of education and outreach for the Houston Grand Opera, has been named executive director of the Texas Commission on the Arts, effective Oct. 1.

Calling him a "well-respected leader" in the arts community, TCA Commission Chair Victoria Lightman said, "We have already witnessed Dr. Gibbs' ability to bring a fresh new perspective to the agency, and we anticipate strategic advances under his leadership."

While with the Houston Grand Opera, Gibbs commissioned and produced numerous operas and developed community events to make opera more accessible to the general public. He has served on panels for the National Endowment for the Arts, the Houston Arts Alliance and TCA. He earned his bachelor's degree from Baylor University, his master's from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and his Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.

Cascos to head Texas Border Security Council

Governor Rick Perry this week announced 11 appointments to the Texas Border Security Council. Perry named Cameron County Judge Carlos Cascos (pictured) of Brownsville presiding officer. The council makes recommendations to the governor on homeland security fund allocations.

Other appointees include Texas Secretary of State Phil Wilson of Austin; Val Clark Beard of Alpine; Tomas S. Herrera of Eagle Pass; William Fredrick (Fred) Burton of Austin; Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Commissioner Buddy Garcia of Austin; Becky Dean-Walker of Sierra Blanca; Robert Braxton Holt of Midland; Scott A. McLaughlin; T. Michael O'Connor of Victoria and Texas Public Safety Commission member Allan B. Polunsky of San Antonio.

Three Texas counties declared disaster areas

Jefferson, Orange and Galveston counties have been declared disaster areas by Gov. Rick Perry after Hurricane Humberto made landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon, many areas in these counties were still without power and trucks carrying generators, water and ice were dispatched to the area.

Before the storm made landfall, 50 high profiles vehicles and 200 Texas Military Forces soldiers were activated and pre-positioned, along with six TMF Blackhawk helicopters and two Texas Task Force 1 swift water rescue teams.

TDA awards funding for 39 research projects

Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples (pictured) this week announced that the Texas Department of Agriculture has awarded $1.2 million in grants to five Texas universities for 39 research projects designed to bolster and enhance the state's food and fiber industries.

"These projects, which range from reducing or eliminating trans-fats in food products to comparing modern cotton harvesting equipment to using goats in managing brush control, will provide an important boost to the state's economy and impact the lives of all Texans," Staples said.

The grants were awarded through TDA's Food and Fibers Research Grant Program to the following universities:

• Texas Tech University, $457,315
• Texas A&M University, $446,500
• Texas Woman's University, $273,000
• The University of Texas at Austin, $2,444
• The University of Texas at Arlington, $30,000

S. Texas water desalination project earns award

Three entities involved in a desalination project in South Texas have been named winner of the "2007 Desalination Project of the Year" award from the WateReuse Association, a nonprofit that promotes innovative ways to address water supply shortages. Accepting the award in the accompanying photo (from left) are Pick Talley, WateReuse Association president, Brownsville Mayor Pat Ahumada Jr., NRS principals Jesus Leal, P.E., and Bill Norris, P.E.

The Brownsville Public Utilities Board, North Alamo Water Supply Corp. and Harlingen-based NRS Consulting Engineers received the award this week in Florida.

These projects ensure a viable water supply in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, where drought, declining water supplies from the Rio Grande and an ever-increasing population have caused officials to look to new water sources. North Alamo WSC provides water for rural areas as well as parts of the McAllen-Mission-Edinburgh area. Its La Sara Treatment Plant produces 1 million gallons of drinking water per day, with two more plants under construction. The Brownsville PUB, with funding from the Texas Water Development Board, is the state's first ever seawater desalination plant. When it is online in 2010, it could produce up to 25 million gallons of water per day.

Texas gets federal funds to develop I-69 corridor

Texas is one of a handful of states selected after a year-long competition to name corridors from 38 applications to be part of the "Corridors of the Future" program of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Texas' I-69 corridor from Texas to Michigan is one of six interstate routes chosen to be among the first participants in the federal initiative to develop multi-state corridors to reduce traffic congestion.

The Texas corridor has been awarded $800,000. The proposals were selected for their potential to use public and private resources to reduce traffic congestion within the corridors and across the country. This can include building new roads and adding lanes to existing roads, building truck-only lanes and bypasses, and integrating real-time traffic technology such as lane management that can match available capacity on roads to changing traffic demands.

Formal agreements should be finalized by spring 2008 that will detail the commitments of the federal, state and local governments involved as well as the role of the private sector. The goal of the corridor's program is to encourage states to explore innovative financing to help reduce congestion and improve freight traffic. As a result of being chosen, Texas now has access to federal resources to ensure timely delivery of corridor projects.

TAMU presidential recommendations down to three

A presidential search committee at Texas A&M University has narrowed its list of 143 candidates to be president of the university to three, all of whom have been recommended to the Board of Regents. Although unnamed, all three are presidents at nationally recognized universities and were chosen from 20 who were picked from the original 143 and then from eight who were interviewed.

TAMU professor and search committee chair Doug Slack (left) said the men and women were from varied ethnic backgrounds and one is thought by many to be among the top five university presidents in the country. "Our goal remains finding an outstanding leader who can guide this great university in meeting its academic and research goals," said TAMU Chancellor Mike McKinney (right), who said that although the three who were recommended will be studied by the regents, that does not mean they are the finalists.

McKinney did say that Interim President Ed Davis was among the 143 initial candidates, but would not say if he was among the three selected by the committee. No deadline has been set for naming a new president.

Governor appoints seven to Texas Historical Commission

Gov. Rick Perry last week appointed seven individuals to the Texas Historical Commission, which strives to preserve the state's architectural, archeological and cultural landmarks.

Appointees include Mario Castillo of San Angelo, John Crain of Dallas, David A. Gravelle of Dallas, Lisa Hembry of Dallas, Gilbert E. Peterson of Alpine and Dr. Steve Tomka of San Antonio.

'Polytrauma' facility to locate in San Antonio

One of only five "polytrauma" facilities nationwide that will treat injured military service men and women returning from Iraq will be built in San Antonio. The $67 million rehab center was announced this week by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Construction is expected to begin next year.

The centers provide rehabilitative services to veterans with severe injuries, including brain injuries. The one in San Antonio should meet the needs of many service men and women who are transferred to VA care from local military hospitals.

Other polytrauma centers are located in California, Florida, Minnesota and Virginia. Two of the nation's 17 secondary facilities are also located in Texas - in Houston and Dallas. The San Antonio center will work with the Brook Army Medical Center, Wilford Hall, University Hospital, the University of Texas Health Science Center and the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research. It will complement the National Trauma Institute, a military-civilian center for research, treatment and care of both victims and families.

DADS announces three new superintendents

Three new state school superintendents have been announced by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS): Iva Benson (right) at the Corpus Christi State School, Tony Ochoa at the El Paso State School and Gale Wasson (left) at the Lufkin State School.

Benson has nearly four decades of experience in providing residential services to individuals with mental retardation and comes to Corpus Christi from DADS headquarters in Austin. She holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Prairie View A&M University.

Ochoa has been acting superintendent at the El Paso school since June, where he has also previously served as assistant superintendent of programs. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and is a graduate of DADS' Building the Bench Leadership Development Program.

Wasson replaces former Superintendent Royce Garrett at the Lufkin State School. She has worked at the facility for 30 years and has been the assistant superintendent of programs for the last five years. Wassons holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University as well as a professional supervisor license from the Texas Education Agency.

Baylor College of Medicine benefits from $100 million gift

Baylor trustee Robert McNair and his wife have given a $100 million gift to the Baylor College of Medicine, equaling the school's largest-ever donation. The gift will be used to fund research regarding cancer, diabetes and the neurosciences. The campus on which Baylor will build its hospital and clinic will be named for the McNairs.

The gift was made through the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, which funds scholarships for students who become "McNair scholars." The Foundation also has provided funding to other institutions of higher education, including the University of Houston, Rice University, the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Houston Community College.

Baylor recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the 35-acre healthcare campus that will now bear the McNairs' name.

Parks and Wildlife plans statewide hearings on grants

Officials with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Recreation Grants Program will take their show on the road this month with meetings in Odessa, the Woodlands and Harlingen to seek input on the local park grant program. TPWD officials already have held meetings in Austin and Arlington.

The local park grant program includes Outdoor Grants, Indoor Grants, Small Community Grants, Regional Grants, Community Grants, Community Outdoor Outreach Program Grants, Recreational Trails Grants and Boating Access Grants for which cities, counties, municipal utility districts and water districts can apply for projects that include playgrounds, sports, trails, hunting, fishing, aquatic activities, camping and beautification.

The awards are given out twice annually and typically are matching grants. In August 2006, TPWD awarded more than $4 million of the grant funds for local parks in Texas. For more information, email rec.grants@tpwd.state.tx.us.

San Antonio public works director resigns

Tom Wendorf (pictured), San Antonio's public works director for seven years, recently announced his resignation, effective Sept. 30. He will move on to a Kansas City-based engineering firm as part-owner.

Wendorf said his decision to step down had nothing to do with the recent reorganization of his department and the creation of Engineering and Architectural Services, to coordinate all bond-funded infrastructure programs.

Candidates for Bexar interim sheriff down to five

In the wake of the resignation of former Sheriff Ralph Lopez, more than 40 applicants submitted their names as possible interim replacements. The Bexar County Commissioner's Court has pared that number down to five finalists.

In the running for interim sheriff are Chief Deputy Rolando Tafolla, Lt. Marcia Paquel and Deputy Chief Dennis McKnight of the Bexar County Sheriff's Office; Matthew "Nite" Marshall, a former four-term constable; and Michael Quinn, vice president of facilities and operations for Brooks Development Authority. The court will not interview any of the applicants who plan to run for the office next year. The person chosen will serve until a new sheriff is elected in November 2008.

Tafolla has been running the day-to-day operations of the department and was named acting sheriff Aug. 31. He was a 25-year veteran of the San Antonio Police Department before joining the Sheriff's Department. The candidates will be interviewed Wednesday, Sept. 19, and an interim sheriff will be chosen that day.

TSTC partner in Baylor Advanced Research Institute

With a goal of bridging the gap between discoveries in Baylor University's research labs and putting those discoveries into practical application in industry, the Texas State Technical College of Waco has become a partner in the Baylor Advanced Research Institute (BARI).

TSTC will be able to provide technical training, assistance and a workforce for Texas clients of the BARI.

"Not only is the BARI an excellent educational tool for students, it could be a significant boost to the Texas economy by shortening the time it takes to get new, innovative ideas out to industry in a practical manner," said TSTC President Elton E. Stuckey Jr. (pictured). Officials are also hopeful the BARI will bring better-paying high-tech industries to the area, which will impact both the area economy and wages for the local workforce. Baylor officials also hope to attract other universities, agencies and businesses to partner in the effort.

Red light cameras in Sugar Land; studied in Missouri City

While the city of Sugar Land prepares to install new red-light cameras at four intersections, neighboring Missouri City is still studying the issue. Sugar Land is still working out details on its installation, as three of the four intersections which will have cameras are on state roadways and must have state approval for camera use there.

Yellow signs will be installed to warn approaching motorists that cameras are in use. The state set a cap of $75 for fines for running the red lights, and the city can only use its portion of the revenues to pay for expenses related to the program, for safety programs and for healthcare facilities that provide trauma care throughout the state.

Austin City Council approves $2.5 billion budget

The Austin City Council this week adopted a $2.5 billion budget for fiscal 2007-08 that includes funding for improving several landmarks including Barton Springs Pool, Deep Eddy Pool and the Lady Bird Lake hike-and-bike trail.

About $6 million was allocated for the Barton Springs Pool renovations, including bathhouse improvements, better access for people with disabilities and new water quality measures. Money was also added to keep Deep Eddy Pool open year-round during the three years of renovations at Barton Springs Pool. The council also earmarked $1.7 million for the design and engineering of a boardwalk on the south side of Lady Bird Lake.

This was the final city budget prepared by City Manager Toby Futrell (pictured) who recently announced she will retire on May 31, 2008.

Finalists for 'Texas Teacher of Year' named

Acting Commissioner of Education Robert Scott last week announced the state's six top educators who have been named as finalists for the Texas Teacher of the Year award for 2007-2008. Scott said the finalists are "wonderful examples of our hard working Texas teachers who give their all every day and bring out the best in our public classrooms."

The six finalists - three who are elementary school educators and three who are secondary school educators - were selected from 40 regional Teachers of the Year. One elementary teacher and one secondary teacher are selected as regional Teachers of the Year from each of the state's 20 education service center areas.

The three finalists for the Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year award are: Theresa H. Fallwell, a special education resource teacher in grades three-five at the Betty and Jean Schmalz Elementary School in the Katy Independent School District; Paul V. Reyna, a sixth-grade science teacher at Vernon Schrade Middle School in Garland ISD; and Grant Simpson, a fourth-grade math teacher at Hidden Lakes Elementary School in Keller ISD.

Finalists for the Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year award are: Paul F. Cain, a math and physics teacher at Ysleta High School in Ysleta ISD; Vicki Mueller, an eighth-grade language arts teacher at Austin Middle School in Amarillo ISD; and Anne Fisher Presley, a twelfth-grade advance placement economics and government teacher at McKinney High School in the McKinney ISD. The winners will be announced later this month.

Garcia chosen as VP at Texas University of N. Texas

Gilda Garcia (pictured), director of equity and access at Texas State University, has been named the University of North Texas' Vice President for Institutional Equity and Diversity, effective Oct. 1. The new position replaces the positions of vice president for senior administration and director of equal opportunity, both of which are currently vacant.

Prior to her five years at Texas State, Garcia served as a diversity training consultant for a private sector business, was associate director for the Governor's Center for Management Development at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and was director of organizational development for the Texas Worker's Compensation Commission. Garcia also has conducted diversity presentations for the Texas Diversity and Leadership Council.

She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, a master's from Texas State University and a Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.

La Porte hires Bottoms as new city manager

Ron Bottoms, city manager in Freeport for five years, was hired as La Porte's new city manager earlier this week.

The La Porte City Council selected Bottoms from a field of 48 candidates who had applied for the position. He will replace Interim City Manager John Joerns. Debra Feazelle retired as city manager in March. Bottoms starts his new job on Oct. 8.

Bottoms has a bachelor's degree in science from Texas A&M University and a master's in public administration from Troy State in Alabama. He has worked as an assistant capital programs manager in San Antonio, and as city manager in Dumas. He also served as director of public works in Brenham.

Claridge named director of Energy Systems Laboratory

Dr. David Claridge (pictured), the Leland T. Jordan Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University, has been named director of the Energy Systems Laboratory at the Texas Engineering Experiment Station. He has served as associate director since 1992.

Claridge joined the TAMU faculty in 1986. He had previously served as an associate professor of civil, environmental and architectural engineering at the University of Colorado. He also worked for the Solar Energy Research Institute in Golden, Colo., and for the U.S. Congressional Office of Technology Assessment.

Claridge earned his bachelor's degree from Walla Walla College and his master's and Ph.D. from Stanford University.

Grant will help Texas Tech on homeland security issues

Texas Tech's Institute of Environmental and Human Health has been awarded a $4.1 million grant that its scientists will use for counterterrorism research relating to biological and chemical terrorism. The U.S. Department of Defense grant will allow some 60 scientists to continue their research.

Babbili recommended for TAMU-Corpus Christi provost

Dr. Ananthat S. Babbili (pictured), dean of the College of Mass Communication at Middle Tennessee State, has been recommended for the position of provost and vice president for academic affairs at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. His recommendation by TAMUCC President Flavius Killebrew is subject to approval by the Texas A&M Board of Regents.

Prior to joining Middle Tennessee State, Babbili was chair of the Department of Journalism and head of International Communication at Texas Christian University for 13 years. He also held the Rogers Chair of Studies in Journalism and New Information Technologies at the University of Western Ontario, Canada. He holds a bachelor's degree from India, a master's from the University of Oklahoma and a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa.

If approved by the regents, Babbili would be charged with coordinating the university's instructional, research and service programs; implementing policies and procedures that affect the Division of Academic Affairs; upholding academic and accreditation standards; and advising the president on academic matters. The deans of the university's five colleges also report directly to the provost.

Hardin County approves bond for jail expansion

The Hardin County Commissioner's Court this week approved a $3.5 million bond to expand the county jail to add 69 beds. The county got a relatively low rate on the bond and expects approval of its bond papers from the Attorney General by early October.

Aggie engineers awarded contract with U.S. Army

The U.S. Army has awarded a $5.5 million, five-year contract to the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University to develop a soft-body-armor materials characterization facility. Under the direction of Professor Roger Morgan (pictured) and his colleagues, the facility has already been awarded $500,000 for startup costs for test equipment.

The facility will research current and future ballistic fibers and fabrics and how each reacts to temperature, humidity and stress. The goal is to develop a less expensive way to test bulletproof vests.

The findings by TAMU also are expected to be applied at NASA, where some of the same types of materials are used to protect parts of the space shuttles.

Health Science Center in San Antonio gets $1 million

A clinical skills center at the University of Texas Health Science Center's School of Medicine got a $1 million boost recently from H-E-B. The center, built in 2005, provides training to more than 800 medical students each year and will be renamed the H-E-B Clinical Skills Center.

The facility is the largest of its kind in Texas, where medical students learn to interact with "patients" portrayed by volunteers. They are observed by faculty and other students.

The facility was constructed with a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and through state tuition revenue bonds.

McKinney won't put arts center funding before voters

Although considering for some time a $19 million contribution as its share of costs for the Arts of Collin County Performing Arts Center, the McKinney City Council last week voted against putting that issue before voters. The cities of Allen, Frisco and Plano were hoping McKinney would become a partner on the center.

However, McKinney City Council member Bill Cox (pictured), said city officials were concerned about what type of long-term financial obligation it might cause the city. He also pointed out that McKinney voters said no to a similar proposition five years ago and that the city already supports the McKinney Performance Arts Center.

Others backing the Collin County center say the setback could create a six-month delay in construction of the facility as they seek to come up with funds from private donors.

Required fingerprints could cost Texas teachers

A new school safety law could cost Texas teachers. When lawmakers approved a bill in the last legislative session that required fingerprinting and mandatory background checks for public school administrators, teachers, counselors and librarians, they did not approve funding for the initiative. Now if the state doesn't come up with the $25 million in funds necessary for the program, teachers could end up paying.

Some school districts already require background checks and some school boards could vote to pay for the fingerprinting, which will be done under a contract the state has with a private company. Otherwise, if the state does not come up with funding, teachers and others could be required to foot the costs.

North Harris district could change its name

"North Harris Montgomery Community College District" - that's a mouthful! Officials of the district think so, too, and are reviewing the possibility of changing the college district's name after 35 years. Chancellor Richard Carpenter (pictured) says a new "brand identity" makes sense for the district.

"Research has been telling us for years that our name is cumbersome," said Carpenter. "Many of our residents still do not realize that the community college near them is part of a much larger system of colleges with almost 50,000 students this fall."

Citizens will be allowed to recommend a new name for the district. Those names will be reviewed and shortened to a list of semi-finalists. The semi-finalists will also be made public. Officials hope to select a new name by November. NHMCCD comprises Cy-Fair College, Kingwood College, Montgomery College, North Harris College, Tomball College, seven satellite centers and The University Center.

Wallace named to senior advisory committee

Sugar Land Mayor David Wallace (pictured) has been named to the U.S. Homeland Security Advisory Council's State and Local Officials Senior Advisory Committee. The committee is charged with providing advice to the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary and his staff regarding homeland security issues.

The advisory board is made up of state and local officials, individuals from terrorism prevention and response communities, academia and the private sector.

Wallace is also the co-chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Homeland Security Task Force.

SFA plans interviews for VP of development

David Nowell, senior vice president for advancement and administration at Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee, and Brooks Hull, executive director of development for the University of Oklahoma College of Engineering, are being interviewed to fill the vacant vice president of development post at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Hull joined OU in 1999 as director of development for the colleges of architecture and education. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from OU.

Nowell also serves Carson-Newman as executive director and president of the Eagle Foundation, a supporting foundation for the college. He holds a bachelor's degree from Houston Baptist University and a Ph.D. from Baylor University.

Taylor outgrowing school facilities; bond studied

Increased student population numbers are leading officials of the Taylor ISD to begin thinking about a possible bond election in the not-too-distant future. Superintendent Bruce Scott (pictured) noted the district already has a number of portable buildings it is using for classrooms and they will eventually need to be replaced with permanent structures.

One elementary school already has nine portable buildings while another is at capacity. The high school already has 14 portable buildings. With more state-mandated science classes, additional space will be needed at the high school.

The district also faces aging facilities and aging air conditioning, water and sewage systems. A community review committee will review the district's facilities and make a proposal in October or November as to whether a bond issue needs to be called.

Jubilee Park residents keeping eye on crime

Residents of the Jubilee Park area in Dallas are keeping an eye on crime - literally. Video surveillance cameras are being installed at intersections throughout the community, and Dallas police will monitor activity in the area via camera. The cameras will be monitored for criminal activity and when any is observed, police officers will be dispatched to that area.

The cameras are just part of a comprehensive plan to curb crime in the area. Some $250,000 in donations has been raised to assist with crime prevention and crime fighting programs. The result is a significant decrease in crime in the area.

TAMU's Suntzeff wins Gruber Cosmology Prize

Nicholas Suntzeff (pictured), physics professor at Texas A&M University, has been named a recipient of the 2007 Gruber Cosmology Prize, likened to the Nobel Prize in the field of cosmology. He is one of 52 international researchers who will share the $500,000 award.

Suntzeff is an expert in supernovae and cosmology and holds the Mitchell-Heep-Munnerlyn Endowed Chair in Observational Astronomy. He previously served 20 years at the United States National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO)/Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory in La Serena, Chile, where he was the associate director for science for NOAO and a tenured astronomer since 1996.

The Gruber Cosmology Prize is awarded each year to a leading cosmologist, astronomer, astrophysicist or scientific philosopher for theoretical, analytical or conceptual discoveries leading to fundamental advances in the field.

Kilgore leaders considering 'quality of life' improvements

Hoping to improve the city's overall quality of life, the Kilgore City Council has proposed six improvement projects at city parks that would cost an estimated $600,000 during the 2007-08 fiscal year.

The projects, which include constructing spray parks and public restrooms and installing lighting for walking trails at several parks, would be funded by the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation. The corporation has set aside funding for quality of life projects this year.

The council will hold public hearings on the proposed projects before voting on the improvements. The corporation is funded primarily through sales tax revenue from the city, with $2.5 million of its $2.8 million proposed budget coming from sales tax revenues.

Del Mar to set timetable for presidential search

Officials of Del Mar College say their presidential search committee will set a timeline for a selection process to name a new president within the four to five weeks. A search committee that includes college staff and members of the community will be selected within a month.

Travis Kirkland (pictured) has been serving as interim president since June and regents hope to have a new president in place by the end of the academic year.

SFA could soon have new Dean of Student Affairs

Two candidates from Texas and Illinois are in the running for the Dean of Student Affairs position at Stephen F. Austin State University and are being interviewed on the SFA campus this week.

Dr. Michael Kelly, dean of students and adjunct instructor of educational leadership at Northeastern Illinois University, and Jason Lambert, assistant vice president for student affairs-student life at Lamar University in Beaumont, are vying the for position.

Prior to joining Lamar, Lambert was director of housing for Christopher Newport University and was director of campus life for Mount Saint Mary's College. While at the University of Evansville, he served as assistant dean of students, director of residence life, coordinator of Greek life and area coordinator. He also previously was a fraternity adviser at Louisiana State University and counselor and residence hall supervisor at Southeastern Louisiana University. He holds a bachelor's degree from Southeastern Louisiana University and a master's from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Kelly, before joining Northeastern, was director of student judicial affairs, assistant dean of student affairs and adjunct assistant professor of policy studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Previously his work focused on student housing and advising as area coordinator with the University of Richmond, residence hall director at Kutztown University and admissions representative for Allentown Business School. He holds a bachelor's degree from West Chester University, a master's from Kutztown University and his Ph.D. from The College of William and Mary.

Communities step up
to close gaps in funding
for programs, initiatives

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

Not too many years ago, the state's budget was awash with black ink and legislators had what seemed like an endless stream of revenue to fund public schools, institutions of higher education, social programs and state agencies. The state's own coffers were healthy and federal dollars flowed to Texas for programs and initiatives as well.

Then the state, like the rest of the nation, experienced an historic economic downturn. Remember Black Monday and the 1987 stock market crash? Another more recent economic downturn resulted after the national tragedy of 9-11. There have been lesser economic setbacks as well - such as the tech bust. But the reality is that state coffers are no longer overflowing and revenue streams flowing from Washington, D.C., have been reduced to a drip.

Texans, however, have always been resourceful and governmental entities have become more innovative than ever. Communities have stepped up to close the gap.

Sale in charge at UTPA while Cardenas recovers

University of Texas Pan American President Dr. Blandina Cardenas (pictured) underwent successful major heart surgery this week and is recuperating and reportedly doing well. Until her return, Dr. Paul Sale, provost/vice president for academic affairs, will serve as the University's Chief Operating Officer.

Cardenas is the university's seventh president, and took over the position in 2004, becoming the institution's first female president. A 30-year veteran educator, Cardenas began her career as a teacher in Del Rio. She served by presidential appointment as commissioner for Children, Youth and Families in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare and for 13 years was on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

Lien takes over as Lamar University museum director

Fu-Chia-Wen Lien (pictured) has been named director of the Dishman Art Museum at Lamar University. Lien hails from Taiwan, where she earned her bachelor's degree from National Taiwan Normal University. She later earned bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of North Carolina.

She returned to Taiwan to work in the educational department of the country's first modern art museum, the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. After earning a Fulbright scholarship, she returned to the United States and earned a Ph.D. from the City University of New York Graduate Center. She served as an adjunct professor at the City University of New York and at the Parsons School of Design Department of Art and Design Studies before coming to Lamar.

Krum ISD hoping for football program with bond election

The Krum school district, one of only a few in Texas that does not have a varsity football program, is hoping voters in the district think it's time they should and that they will approve a $7.5 million bond election in November that will provide for both football and volleyball facilities. Some residents of the district are concerned they may lose prospective students because of the lack of extracurricular activities, particularly football.

The Colony says no to red light cameras in city

The Colony is the latest Texas city to say "no" to the use of red-light cameras that can catch motorists who run red lights. The city council there decided to wait until more information on the success of the cameras is available and until policies and procedures are set by the state.

Dozens of cities in Texas already have installed the cameras. Others at least signed contracts by a Sept. 1 deadline so they would not face stipulations from new law enacted by the 80th Legislature. Among the stipulations are that fines for running red lights and being caught by the cameras would be capped at $75 and half of that would go to the state. Placement of the cameras also would require a traffic engineering study.

Ponder bond election
on tap for November

Part of a $13.4 million bond election in the Ponder ISD will go toward expanding the district's football facilities. However, the bond election is not just for football, as school officials are pointing out. It also includes the addition of a choir room and band hall at the high school. Other facilities improvements also are included.

Austin County officials facing jail issues

Austin County officials recently visited the Calhoun County Jail, a jail in similar size to Austin County's, as they struggle with the possibility of a future bond issue to increase capacity at the local jail. Architects have already been hired to do preliminary work on possibly expanding the facility to nearly 100 beds.

Estimates of costs for expansion are between $12 and $15 million. That does not include the additional personnel that would have to be hired as staff.

Leander to send $559 million bond to voters

Two new high schools, purchase of land for another high school, a new athletic stadium and improvements to the existing stadium are part of a $559 million bond election going before Leander school district residents in November.

It also includes a new middle school, construction and furnishing of elementary schools, technology improvements, agriculture facility improvements and other projects. Superintendent Tom Glenn (pictured) said he thought the bond amount was too big at first, until he heard recommendations from the advisory committee. He said if the bond election were not called, the district could find itself putting students in portable classroom buildings soon because of the high rate of growth in student population in the district.

Calallen ISD school bond issue set in November

A new agricultural facility, an expansion of the football stadium and band hall improvements top the list of Calallen ISD projects voters will consider on Nov. 6.

Calallen school trustees last week called for the $43.6 million bond election. It will be the district's first major bond election in 25 years. The bond issue also would fund upgrades at two primary schools, a new intermediate school building and other district renovations.

New A&M-San Antonio campus moves forward

Plans for establishing a new Texas A&M University campus on San Antonio's southwest side are progressing smoothly. The San Antonio City Council last week approved a memorandum of understanding between the city, the Texas A&M University System, CPS Energy and Verano Land Group requiring the city to set aside $15 million for infrastructure improvements. In addition to donating 694 acres for the new campus, Verano also agreed to give $1 million to the university system's scholarship fund. Verano and the university will pay for some of the infrastructure improvements.

Construction of the campus is scheduled to begin in 2009. To keep state funding, the campus must reach an enrollment threshold of 1,500 students by Jan.1, 2010. When the new campus is operational, the university expects to have 25,000 students and 10,200 permanent jobs.

Green grows in Austin as opportunities develop

Angel networks (wealthy individuals who invest in startup companies), the venture capital community and state-funded programs are creating more green economic development opportunities in the Austin area, according the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce's Clean Energy Council. The Texas Emergency Technology Fund has given $5 million of its $9.1 million in funding to clean tech companies located in Central Texas.

Several green companies have sprouted in Austin in recent months with the help of venture capital, including a company that developed a process that converts power plant emissions into commercial-grade chemicals that can be recycled into industrial applications, and an Internet-based irrigation system that reduces over-watering by 20 percent to 50 percent.

Coppell purchasing more renewable energy

The City of Coppell has inked a contract that calls for 50 percent of the electricity the city uses to be renewable energy - from city facilities to traffic lights. If does not include residences and businesses.

The city expects much of the power to come from Texas wind farms, said City Manager Jim Witt (pictured). The city already is moving toward becoming more "green" by retrofitting some city buildings with energy-saving fluorescent light bulbs, while other buildings have automated energy management systems that regulate temperatures. Air and heating units are programmed to use less electricity during off-peak hours and some facilities have solar screens on windows that keep areas cooler. These changes have resulted in a 30-40 percent reduction in electricity use.

Longview approves online math classes for high school

Some 300 Longview students can now take math classes online. School district trustees this week approved using the Virtual Learning Portal Service, hosted by the Harris County Department of Education, to provide online classes in algebra, pre-calculus and eighth-grade math.

The online classes were added to the curriculum to offer college-bound students more challenging course selections. Initially, approximately 233 high school and 66 middle school students will be enrolled in the online classes. The new program will cost the district close to $9,000, and classes will be taught by state-certified teachers.

Structural pest control
now under TDA

The Structural Pest Control Service (SPCS) is now operating under the Texas Department of Agriculture. The 80th Legislature abolished the former Structural Pest Control Board and transferred the licensing and regulation of structural pest control to the TDA because of the agency's long history regulating agricultural pesticides.

The agency's Pesticide Division will oversee the service which deals with pesticide applications in and around homes, schools and buildings. The TDA has added a direct, toll-free consumer and industry hotline, 866-918-4481, and fax number, 888-232-2567, to ensure a smooth transition. The Web address is www.tda.state.tx.us/spcs and e-mail address spcs@tda.state.tx.us.

Brownwood school superintendent to retire

Dr. Sue Jones, Brownwood school superintendent since 2001, will retire at the end of the 2007-08 school year. District trustees plan to initiate a search for Jones' replacement in coming weeks.

Jones, one of six female school superintendents of approximately 80 Big Country school districts, joined the Brownwood school district in 1982 as curriculum coordinator. She later served as assistant superintendent before her appointment to the superintendent post.

Round Rock could provide bus service to Austin

Built into the city of Round Rock's proposed budget is money for contracting with a private bus service to provide commuter service from Round Rock to Austin. The budget, which is expected to be approved on Sept. 27, includes $250,000 that could be added to federal funds to provide for the bus service. As the city continues to grow, some believe Round Rock will eventually have its own city-owned and operated bus service.

UT-Pan American awarded USDA grant funding

The University of Texas - Pan American has been named the recipient of a $198,564 Rural Cooperative Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The funds are part of $3.6 million allocated among 19 Rural Cooperative Development Centers throughout the country.

Grants are awarded to institutions of higher education and nonprofit corporations to finance up to 75 percent of the cost of establishing and operating Centers for Cooperative Development.

USDA Rural Development's Cooperative Program helps rural residents form new cooperative businesses and improve the operations of existing cooperatives. To accomplish this, Cooperative Programs provide technical assistance, conduct cooperative-related research and produce informational materials to promote public understanding of cooperatives. Since 2001, the Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program has awarded 146 grants totaling $35.7 million.

APISD superintendent headed to Brownsville

Dr. Carl Montoya, who has served the last seven years as superintendent of the Aransas Pass ISD, is leaving that post to take a job as assistant superintendent of the Brownsville ISD. In Brownsville, Montoya will supervise a cluster of nine or 10 schools.

Aransas Pass ISD board members said they expect to name an interim superintendent within the next few weeks.

Temple ISD expected to name interim leader

With the recent departure of Beto Gonzales from the superintendent's job at Temple ISD, the school board there is expected next week to name an interim superintendent. Already, 20 applicants have filed for the interim position and some have been called for interviews.

Once the interim superintendent is named, the school district is expected to hire a search firm to find a permanent superintendent.

Texas Tech University
opens new institute

Texas Tech has opened its new Institute for Modern Conflict, Diplomacy and Reconciliation, which documents the modern conflicts in which the United States is involved. The research facility, according to Executive Director James Reckner, will house information relating to America's involvement in conflicts, including the war on terror, that date back as far as 1950.

"We anticipate that this institute will provide an information base to help steer the future of American diplomatic actions," said Reckner, who previously was director of Tech's Vietnam Center. Reckner will now oversee both centers and Tech's Department of Military Science and the Department of Aerospace Studies.

Burleson chosen as Baylor's university chaplain

Burt L. Burleson (pictured), a 1980 graduate of Baylor University, has been named the university's newest chaplain. Burleson, who also pastors DaySpring Baptist Church in Waco, will begin his new job Oct. 1.

Burleson will take over for Dr. Byron Weathersbee, who served as interim chaplain until May, and Dr. Todd Lake, who was the chaplain before leaving in 2005 to become vice president for spiritual development at Belmont University. Burleson holds a bachelor's degree from Baylor, a master of divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and his doctor of ministry degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

Entities form Research Valley Innovation Center

Texas A&M University, the TAMU System, the TAMU System Health Science Center and the Research Valley Partnership, Inc. have organized to establish the Research Valley Innovation Center, whose goal it is to influence regional economic development by promoting university-business synergy.

The center is described as a science and technology "incubator" to help new businesses transition into successful businesses and will be headed up by General Manager James Y. Lancaster, who is co-founder of three technology companies and has experience with start-ups. He holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M and a master's from The University of Texas at Austin.

Sam Houston involved in joint research project

A joint research project involving Sam Houston State University, the Phoenix House of Texas and Montgomery County Juvenile Probation Department has been awarded a nearly $300,000 grant from the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Association at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The grant funds will be used to test the effectiveness of a family-based drug treatment program. SHSU's Craig Henderson, an assistant professor of psychology, will be lead investigator on the project that seeks to address gaps in substance abuse services or to help areas where emerging substance abuse problems are being found. Henderson, who has been at SHSU since 2005, previously worked for the University of Miami School of Medicine.

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San Angelo ISD names assistant superintendent

Shelly Hullihen was named assistant superintendent for the San Angelo school district earlier this week. Hullihen, who had served in a similar capacity for the Livingston school district, replaced Joanne Rice, who resigned.

Hullihen had worked in Livingston district's administration office for 13 years. In her new role she will oversee curriculum and instruction for the San Angelo district, as well as the athletics department, technology and staff development.

Donna IDS's interim superintendent resigns

Cecilio Sauceda (pictured), Donna school district interim superintendent for almost two months, resigned earlier this week.

Sauceda was appointed interim superintendent in July. Donna trustees are actively searching for a new superintendent. They have not set a timeline for replacing Sauceda.

Recent Reports

• An Audit Report on Performance Measures at the Board of Professional Geoscientists
• CourTex, Texas Judicial Branch News, Office of Court Administration
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Event Links

• Executive Women in Texas Government 21st Annual Professional Development Conference
• Texas State Agency Business Administrators' Assn. Bi-Monthly Meetings
• Texas Department of Agriculture Centennial Festival
• TWC Texas Business Conferences
• LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
• Texas Veterans Benefits Seminars
• Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events
• 2007 National Purchasing Institute's 39th Annual National Conference & Products Exposition

Gunter ISD school superintendent to retire

Richard Cohagan has decided it's time to move on, after serving as Gunter ISD's superintendent for 27 years. He will retire in December.

Upon Cohagan's departure, Assistant Superintendent Kevin Worthy will become the interim superintendent. In coming months, Gunter school trustees will decide if Worthy should be named superintendent or if they should look for other candidates to replace Cohagan.

'Buff Alert' will notify WTAMU students in emergencies

Students, faculty and staff at West Texas A&M University can now depend on the "Buff Alert" system to contact them electronically during emergencies. The system is an electronic program that can send messages during emergencies to either mobile phones or by e-mails. The system can be used to advise students and staff of weather problems, homeland security information or other emergency information.

Officials say the system is much like an Amber Alert system, and even if students are in class and asked to turn off their cell phones, each classroom will be equipped with a phone connected to the university's computer network. The phones will sound an alarm if there is an emergency.

Six Texas entities share in $9.2 million in grant funds

Six entities in Texas will share in $9.2 million in Community Facilities grants that are intended to improve public safety, healthcare and educational services. Awards of $100,000 each went to the City of Beeville and Brooks County. Comanche County Consolidated Hospital District got $34,850 and the City of Olney was awarded $22,730. An award of $16,100 went to the 980 North Volunteer Fire Department and the City of Hawk Cove was awarded $7,500.

The grants were awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help enhance the quality of life for rural Texans and rural Texas communities. Most address safety needs in rural areas, such as purchasing first responder vehicles and medical equipment. There were 291 projects selected for funding.

Harlingen plans 14-field athletic complex

A $7.5 million, 14-field soccer complex is under construction for the city of Harlingen Parks and Recreation Department. The groundbreaking this week was for one phase of the soccer complex - a $5.2 million project that will include 10 of the 14 fields. More than half of the cost of the 14 fields will be paid for through certificates of obligation. Six of the fields will be equipped with lights for night games. City officials expect the complex to be completed by March 2008.

The complex will also feature a walking trail, playground, concession building with restrooms, covered pavilions and landscaped areas.

Corpus Christi school trustees consider bond

The Corpus Christi school board Monday discussed ways to fund future expansion needs and higher operating costs, including a bond election in May 2008, but made no decision.

School district voters in 2004 rejected a $195 million bond proposal to address school overcrowding. Since that time, the district has had to deal with the overcrowding issue in part by constructing a new elementary school and making improvements to Ray High School. Trustees discussed the possibility of a bond proposal to pay for future needs and to refinance debt incurred since 2004.

Community advisory panels will start meeting in early 2008 to discuss the district's facility needs and the feasibility of a bond election.

Dallas drivers to face 40 more red light cameras

Motorists in Dallas will face an additional 40 red-light cameras at intersections in the city after city officials doubled their contract for the technology aimed at reducing auto accidents related to motorists running red lights. The additional cameras will bring to 100 the total number at intersections throughout the city that are camera-monitored. The locations for the cameras have not been disclosed yet and it could be several months before they are operational.

Bandera working on city's master plan

After kicking ideas around for nearly two years, city officials in Bandera are ready to move forward on the city's master plan and have put $36,000 in their budget to get things rolling. The master plan will outline the use of land in the city, study development and possible annexation areas. The city's Planning and Zoning Committee now can begin preparing an outline for the plan and making recommendations regarding the possibility of hiring a consultant to assist. City officials hope to have a new master plan within a year.

SFA picks Davis as interim director of Alumni Affairs

Jeff. H. Davis (pictured), current director of development for Alumni Affairs at Stephen F. Austin State University, has been named interim director of Alumni Affairs. He replaces James Jeter, who resigned in August. Davis will oversee the operations of Alumni Affairs until a permanent replacement is named.

Davis joined Alumni Affairs as director of development in February 2006. He supervises alumni fundraising, scholarships and membership solicitations. He also oversees programs that provide credit card, insurance and travel club services to Alumni Association members. Davis holds a bachelor's degree from SFA and a master's from the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

Prior to his association with SFA, Davis was assistant director of new student orientation at UAB.

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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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BioTexas Summit slated Sept. 24-25 in Austin

The fourth annual BioTexas Summit, co-sponsored by the University of Texas Medical Branch and the Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute, will be held Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 24 and 25, at the Sheraton Austin Hotel. This year's summit, Vaccines and Global Health Issues: All You Never Wanted to Know about Vaccines and How One Could Change Your Life, will be highlighted by keynote addresses by Billy Tauzin, president and CEO of Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), and Mauro Ferrari, professor at the Brown Institute of Molecular Medicine and chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Registration for the summit ends on Thursday, Sept. 20. The focus of this year's summit is vaccine development and global health and it will also feature panel discussions. To view the agenda, click here. To register, click here.

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.

TDA to celebrate with Centennial Festival

In the spring of 1907, the 30th Texas Legislature created the Texas Department of Agriculture. TDA this year will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a two-day Centennial Festival celebration. The events, most of which will be held at the Fort Worth Stockyards, will kick off Friday, Sept. 14, with a reception and gala. Other events include a fun run and breakfast, cooking demonstrations and a centennial concert featuring country western star Clay Walker. For more information and to view the full agenda for the events, click here.

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.