Interim Charges
As a continuation of the last article, I am going to look at some of the interim charges for the Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. I was appointed to this committee earlier this year, and serve as the Vice-Chairman.
The Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee has jurisdiction over all matters pertaining to the relations between the State of Texas and the federal government involving defense, emergency preparedness, and veterans issues; the various branches of the military service of the United States; the realignment or closure of military bases; the defense of the state and nation, including terrorism response; emergency preparedness; veterans of military and related services; and the following state agencies: the Adjutant General’s Department, the Texas Veterans Commission, the Veterans’ Land Board, the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, the Division of Emergency Management, and the Emergency Management Council.
There were six charges presented to the committee, one of which was discussed last week regarding the veterans court programs in Texas. This is a joint charge for both the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee and the Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, so I will not discuss it again in this article. Another charge is simply to monitor the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction which are listed in the above paragraph. There are four additional more specific charges which I will summarize for you here.
Land surrounding military installations
“Investigate strategies to address incompatible land use surrounding Texas military installations. Study approaches that minimize conflict with neighboring landowners.”
Preventing the encroachment of military installations has become one of the top priorities of the U.S. Department of Defense. To ensure the military’s ability to maintain operational readiness in defense of the United States, it is necessary to foster compatible land use between military installations and neighboring communities.
The committee will look at various ways to go about creating compatible use, including analyzing the recently law that allows defense communities to establish and fund a regional military sustainability commission that regulates this kind of development (HB 2919).
Additionally, Texas voters passed a constitutional amendment last month that would authorize the Legislature to allow cities and counties to issue bonds in order to purchase areas around military installations for constructing roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure that could protect or promote the military installation (HJR 132). The committee will look at this amendment, now part of the Texas Constitution, during the interim as well.
Centralizing Call Centers for Veterans
“Evaluate the advantages, including potential cost savings, of centralizing call center activities for referral to benefits providers for Veterans.”
Benefits providers for veterans include the Texas Veterans Commission, the Texas Veterans’ Land Board, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, the Dept. of State Health Services, Suicide Prevention Call Centers and more. By centralizing these resources, veterans may have better access to services. In fact, providers would be able to share contact information, databases, and pool some direct mail efforts which could save the state time and money. Furthermore, by studying this charge, the committee may be able to find alternate ways to streamline the benefits process for veterans so that they are getting the most out of the services they need.
Border & Homeland Security
“Monitor and review the disbursement and use of border and homeland security funds. Evaluate the effectiveness in meeting the state’s border and homeland security program goals and objectives.”
The current state-led border security operations program is called “Operation Border Star.” Created in 2007, Operation Border Star provides additional funding to local law enforcement on the border in order to hire more staff and coordinate intelligence. Last September, Gov. Perry added to this program by sending highly skilled Ranger Reconnaissance (Ranger Recon) Teams to the border. The state has dedicated significant financial resources to border security during the past two legislative sessions, so this interim charge will ensure those funds are being used in an effective and pragmatic manner.
Military & Overseas Voting
“Study ways the state can enhance military and overseas voters’ ability to obtain and return balloting materials and reduce burdens on those voters’ exercise of their right to vote.”
As of Sept. 1st, 2009, military personnel and overseas voters can request a federal postcard application and ballot via mail, fax, or email; however, they can only return a ballot by mail or fax. There were several bills filed during the session that aimed to allow voters to return their ballot by email, but those did not pass.
Many military families and overseas voters have greater access to a scanner and to email than they do to a fax machine, yet both ensure more timely delivery than the postal service. This interim charge will allow the committee to consider all the options for overseas absentee voters, including returning ballots through email, so that they can exercise their right to vote to the fullest extent.
If you have questions regarding any of these interim charges or would like more information, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
December 22, 2009
Calloway's Timely Tips for January and February Gardeners
Timely Tip for January Gardeners
From Calloway’s Nursery
January is a good time to evaluate your gardens and start planning for the Spring. Prepare a sketch of your landscape complete with all permanent fixtures including the house, sidewalks, fences and trees. Keep notes of what did well and what needs to be replaced. Remember, your landscape is a continual work in progress!
Now is the time to prune fruit trees and grapevines. Shade trees and evergreen shrubs can be trimmed to maintain shape and to remove damaged or low lying branches. Do not top Crape Myrtles; only prune to remove damaged branches. Trim summer blooming shrubs and vines to tidy their appearance. Leave a smooth cut flush with the trunk or branch from which you pruned. Apply pruning paint to cuts larger than a pinkie to prevent diseases and insect infestations.
For more information, please join us for FREE in-store clinics regarding gardening topics. Clinics are held in every store.
Saturday, January 16th at 10:15 am-Pruning Techniques
Shape up your shrubs! Trim your trees! Understand why and when to prune. Check out the newest and best tools to get the job done!
Success in the garden begins with a good foundation! Become a member of our Garden Club and learn how to develop a beautiful landscape! Visit http://www.mytexasgarden.com/ to join today!
Timely Tip for February Gardeners
From Calloway’s Nursery
Remember your Valentine with fresh, living flowers. Give roses which can be planted and enjoyed year round or a container of cool season color for an immediate impact on your porch or patio. Houseplants in attractive ceramic pots provide long lasting enjoyment for indoors. Gloves, tools and wind chimes all make great gifts. The list is endless, let your imagination “grow green”!
Also, please join us for FREE in-store clinics on timely gardening topics. These clinics are held in every store.
Saturday, February 6th at 10:15 am-Color Creations with Orchids-Create a beautiful, living Valentine’s gift which will last and last.
Saturday, February 13th at 10:15 am-Gardening with Roses-Give your Valentine roses that will provide blooms from Spring until Fall. Select from Earthkinds, Knock-Outs, Patented and Non-Patented varieties.
Saturday, February 20th at 10:15 am-Organics 101-Learn how to garden the organic way!
Saturday, February 27th at 10:15 am-Lawn Care-Be the envy of your neighbors. Learn what it takes to have a beautiful, healthy lawn.
For more gardening information for Texas, visit http://www.mytexasgarden.com/.
From Calloway’s Nursery
Remember your Valentine with fresh, living flowers. Give roses which can be planted and enjoyed year round or a container of cool season color for an immediate impact on your porch or patio. Houseplants in attractive ceramic pots provide long lasting enjoyment for indoors. Gloves, tools and wind chimes all make great gifts. The list is endless, let your imagination “grow green”!
Also, please join us for FREE in-store clinics on timely gardening topics. These clinics are held in every store.
Saturday, February 6th at 10:15 am-Color Creations with Orchids-Create a beautiful, living Valentine’s gift which will last and last.
Saturday, February 13th at 10:15 am-Gardening with Roses-Give your Valentine roses that will provide blooms from Spring until Fall. Select from Earthkinds, Knock-Outs, Patented and Non-Patented varieties.
Saturday, February 20th at 10:15 am-Organics 101-Learn how to garden the organic way!
Saturday, February 27th at 10:15 am-Lawn Care-Be the envy of your neighbors. Learn what it takes to have a beautiful, healthy lawn.
For more gardening information for Texas, visit http://www.mytexasgarden.com/.
From the Desk of Allen Vaught
Interim Charges
While the legislature is not in session, there is still work to be done. Speaker Joe Straus released the interim charges for the 81st Legislature last month, and has tasked the standing House committees with looking into several specific issues. Interim charges provide an opportunity for the committees to hold hearings to examine issues confronting the state and ultimately make recommendations for action. Often times, the results of these hearings lead to new legislation or become key issues during the next legislative session.
I am a second-term member of the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence. This committee holds jurisdiction over matters pertaining to criminal law, probation and parole, as well as criminal procedure in the courts, and revisions to the Texas Penal Code. What follows is a description of some of the charges our committee has been assigned by Speaker Straus.
Public Defender Offices
“Study how the state presently supports the establishment and maintenance of public defender offices.”
Once an appellant who is accused of a crime is identified as indigent, a district judge, county judge or jail magistrate is responsible for appointing representation from the public defender's office. In order to provide the representation that reflects the goals set forth by the state of Texas and all public defender's offices, attorneys, investigators and support staff members must all work together in order to provide the assistance needed to give the indigent appellant the appropriate legal representation.
During upcoming testimony on this charge, the members of the committee will hear testimony to fully understand how exactly these offices are set up as well as how all the offices in Texas are funded with regards to payroll, research, etc. The end result of this particular charge is to fully comprehend all aspects of how our state's public defender's offices are created and maintained.
Human & Sex Trafficking
“Study the human and sex trafficking problem in Texas. Make recommendations on best practices in the areas of investigation, prosecution, and tracking of the victims of these crimes. Study whether victims of these crimes are allowed to adequately recover from their attackers in a civil cause of action.”
In the past couple of sessions, the Texas Legislature has made great strides in the area of human trafficking, especially since Texas is the hub for most trafficking in the United States. This past session we passed House Bill 4409, which requires the Attorney General to establish a human trafficking prevention task force to develop policies, procedures, data collection, and training to assist in the prevention and prosecution of human trafficking crimes.
With an interim charge designed to investigate the criminal side of this offense and how to better prosecute individuals, along with a report due next Dec. (2010) from the Attorney General’s office, legislators should go into the 82nd legislative session well educated on how best to prevent and prosecute this crime.
Veterans Court Programs
“Monitor the implementation of SB 1940, which established veterans court programs in Texas, and examine the link between combat stress disorders of war veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and the onset of criminal behavior.”
This charge actually comes out of an amendment I added during the final days of the legislative session. Senate Bill 1940 authorizes county commissioners’ courts to establish a veterans diversion court program for military service personnel and veterans whose service-related disability contributed to their criminal offense. This pretrial court will ensure that our veterans and military personnel with combat-related mental health issues receive the proper treatment. This interim charge will look at the implementation of this legislation to see if any changes or improvements are needed, and if so, what can be done.
If you have questions regarding any of these interim charges or would like more information, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
While the legislature is not in session, there is still work to be done. Speaker Joe Straus released the interim charges for the 81st Legislature last month, and has tasked the standing House committees with looking into several specific issues. Interim charges provide an opportunity for the committees to hold hearings to examine issues confronting the state and ultimately make recommendations for action. Often times, the results of these hearings lead to new legislation or become key issues during the next legislative session.
I am a second-term member of the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence. This committee holds jurisdiction over matters pertaining to criminal law, probation and parole, as well as criminal procedure in the courts, and revisions to the Texas Penal Code. What follows is a description of some of the charges our committee has been assigned by Speaker Straus.
Public Defender Offices
“Study how the state presently supports the establishment and maintenance of public defender offices.”
Once an appellant who is accused of a crime is identified as indigent, a district judge, county judge or jail magistrate is responsible for appointing representation from the public defender's office. In order to provide the representation that reflects the goals set forth by the state of Texas and all public defender's offices, attorneys, investigators and support staff members must all work together in order to provide the assistance needed to give the indigent appellant the appropriate legal representation.
During upcoming testimony on this charge, the members of the committee will hear testimony to fully understand how exactly these offices are set up as well as how all the offices in Texas are funded with regards to payroll, research, etc. The end result of this particular charge is to fully comprehend all aspects of how our state's public defender's offices are created and maintained.
Human & Sex Trafficking
“Study the human and sex trafficking problem in Texas. Make recommendations on best practices in the areas of investigation, prosecution, and tracking of the victims of these crimes. Study whether victims of these crimes are allowed to adequately recover from their attackers in a civil cause of action.”
In the past couple of sessions, the Texas Legislature has made great strides in the area of human trafficking, especially since Texas is the hub for most trafficking in the United States. This past session we passed House Bill 4409, which requires the Attorney General to establish a human trafficking prevention task force to develop policies, procedures, data collection, and training to assist in the prevention and prosecution of human trafficking crimes.
With an interim charge designed to investigate the criminal side of this offense and how to better prosecute individuals, along with a report due next Dec. (2010) from the Attorney General’s office, legislators should go into the 82nd legislative session well educated on how best to prevent and prosecute this crime.
Veterans Court Programs
“Monitor the implementation of SB 1940, which established veterans court programs in Texas, and examine the link between combat stress disorders of war veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and the onset of criminal behavior.”
This charge actually comes out of an amendment I added during the final days of the legislative session. Senate Bill 1940 authorizes county commissioners’ courts to establish a veterans diversion court program for military service personnel and veterans whose service-related disability contributed to their criminal offense. This pretrial court will ensure that our veterans and military personnel with combat-related mental health issues receive the proper treatment. This interim charge will look at the implementation of this legislation to see if any changes or improvements are needed, and if so, what can be done.
If you have questions regarding any of these interim charges or would like more information, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
Audelia Public Library Holiday Hours
To: LHAHOA Web Administrators
From: John Gould, President, Audelia Public Library
Re: December Update
From: John Gould, President, Audelia Public Library
Re: December Update
Holiday Hours
Christmas
Thursday, December 24th closing at 5 p.m.
Closed Friday, December 25th
Resume regular hours on Saturday, December 26
New Years
Thursday, December 31, closed
Friday, January 1, closed
Resume regular hours Saturday, January 2
October 2, 2009
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2009, 6:00 - 8:00 P.M.
YOU’RE INVITED!
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
TUESDAY OCTOBER 6, 2009
6:00 – 8:00 PM
LANARKSHIRE DRIVE
Join us for an L Streets night of community including:
Food, drinks, bounce house, face painting, fire truck on display, representatives
from the local fire and police stations as well as local businesses.
FREE food, FREE entertainment, FREE raffle tickets to all who attend!
Prizes include gift certificates to neighborhood businesses.
Contact Kristy Brewer (lanarkshire@lstreets.org)
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
TUESDAY OCTOBER 6, 2009
6:00 – 8:00 PM
LANARKSHIRE DRIVE
Join us for an L Streets night of community including:
Food, drinks, bounce house, face painting, fire truck on display, representatives
from the local fire and police stations as well as local businesses.
FREE food, FREE entertainment, FREE raffle tickets to all who attend!
Prizes include gift certificates to neighborhood businesses.
Contact Kristy Brewer (lanarkshire@lstreets.org)
with any questions or if you’d like to volunteer at the event.
National Night Out is an annual event designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. The goal is to heighten crime-prevention awareness, build support and participation in local anti-crime programs, and most importantly, send a message that our neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get to know our neighbors even better. See you there!
www.nationalnightout.org
National Night Out is an annual event designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. The goal is to heighten crime-prevention awareness, build support and participation in local anti-crime programs, and most importantly, send a message that our neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get to know our neighbors even better. See you there!
www.nationalnightout.org
From the Desk of Allen Vaught
On November 3rd the voters of Texas will have the opportunity to consider 11 proposed amendments to the state’s constitution. In this and the two subsequent editions of this column, I will provide background information on the amendments to encourage an informed trip to the voting booth. As we all know, a democracy rests upon the act of voting.
Proposition 1: Authorizing city and county financing to buy buffer areas near military installations
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the financing, including through tax increment financing, of the acquisition by municipalities and counties of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military installation for the prevention of encroachment or for the construction of roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure to protect or promote the mission of the military installation.”
Proposition 1 would authorize the Legislature to allow cities and counties to issue these bonds so that they could purchase the areas around military installations if necessary. Additionally, cities and counties could purchase the land to construct roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure that protects or promotes the mission of the military installation. The city or county could pledge to increase property taxes for the area in order to repay the bonds or notes. Since the enabling legislation for this amendment did not pass in the legislature, this amendment would only grant authority to the legislature to file legislation making this change in future sessions.
Supporters say Proposition 1 is necessary to grant clear, specific authorization for cities and counties to buy these bonds and notes. Proposition 1 would allow cities and counties to address a growing need to protect military installations from encroachment by preventing or limiting development of the surrounding area. Texas is home to numerous military installations, and in some areas, commercial and residential development has moved closer and closer to the facilities, resulting in problems for both the military facilities and those involved in the development.
Opponents say while protecting military bases is a worthy goal, cities and counties should not be given another reason to increase property taxes. Higher property taxes used to finance bonds to purchase land or build infrastructure could overburden property owners who already carry a heavy load.
Proposition 2: Requiring Appraisal of Residence Homesteads Based Solely on Their Homestead Value
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property’s value as a residence homestead.”
Supporters say the constitutional requirement that property be taxed in proportion to its value has all too often meant that county tax appraisers have valued property based on its “highest and best use” rather than on its current use. For example, a residential property in or near a commercial district may be valued based on its commercial potential even though it currently is being used as a residence. Proposition 2 and its enabling legislation would require that the market value of a residence homestead be determined by its value as a residence homestead, regardless of whether that is the highest and best use of the property.
Opponents say Proposition 2 would arbitrarily move the property appraisal process further away from a true valuation of property according to its worth. According to some estimates, allowing residential homestead property to be valued based solely on its residential use and exempted from a highest and best use valuation would reduce taxable property values, thereby reducing local tax revenue and requiring a local tax increase or spending cuts to offset the revenue loss. When school districts’ property values per student are lower, the state must provide additional funding to these districts under the Foundation School Program’s equalization formulas. The state cannot afford to increase its obligations in this manner, especially when state finances are expected to be spread thin over the next few years.
Proposition 3: Allowing State Enforcement of Uniform Property Appraisal Standards and Procedures
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.”
Proposition 3 would remove the current constitutional requirement that administrative and judicial enforcement of uniform standards and procedures for property appraisal originate in the county where the tax is imposed. Instead, the legislature would be granted authority to design and create the standards and procedures, so that they do not vary from county to county.
Supporters say that since property owners across the state have seen large increases in the appraised value of their property, the often inequitable increase can be attributed to the differing local appraisal practices and methods across different districts. The state has been left with little meaningful supervisory or administrative power over the standards and methods that local appraisal districts use to value property. Property located in one Texas county should be appraised in the same manner and according to the same rule as similar property located in another Texas county.
Opponents say that Proposition 3 is unnecessary since the state already exerts influence over the appraisal standards through training provided by the state Comptroller’s office and through the comptroller’s annual property tax study. Additionally, opponents worry that Proposition 3 could lead to a loss of local control since county appraisal districts know their local markets and economic realities better than state officials do. Enforcing standards at the state level could impose a one-size-fits-all solution that might not produce the most accurate appraisals for each local district.
If you have questions regarding any of these constitutional amendments or the upcoming election, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sources:
The Texas House Research Organization
Proposition 1: Authorizing city and county financing to buy buffer areas near military installations
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the financing, including through tax increment financing, of the acquisition by municipalities and counties of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military installation for the prevention of encroachment or for the construction of roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure to protect or promote the mission of the military installation.”
Proposition 1 would authorize the Legislature to allow cities and counties to issue these bonds so that they could purchase the areas around military installations if necessary. Additionally, cities and counties could purchase the land to construct roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure that protects or promotes the mission of the military installation. The city or county could pledge to increase property taxes for the area in order to repay the bonds or notes. Since the enabling legislation for this amendment did not pass in the legislature, this amendment would only grant authority to the legislature to file legislation making this change in future sessions.
Supporters say Proposition 1 is necessary to grant clear, specific authorization for cities and counties to buy these bonds and notes. Proposition 1 would allow cities and counties to address a growing need to protect military installations from encroachment by preventing or limiting development of the surrounding area. Texas is home to numerous military installations, and in some areas, commercial and residential development has moved closer and closer to the facilities, resulting in problems for both the military facilities and those involved in the development.
Opponents say while protecting military bases is a worthy goal, cities and counties should not be given another reason to increase property taxes. Higher property taxes used to finance bonds to purchase land or build infrastructure could overburden property owners who already carry a heavy load.
Proposition 2: Requiring Appraisal of Residence Homesteads Based Solely on Their Homestead Value
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property’s value as a residence homestead.”
Supporters say the constitutional requirement that property be taxed in proportion to its value has all too often meant that county tax appraisers have valued property based on its “highest and best use” rather than on its current use. For example, a residential property in or near a commercial district may be valued based on its commercial potential even though it currently is being used as a residence. Proposition 2 and its enabling legislation would require that the market value of a residence homestead be determined by its value as a residence homestead, regardless of whether that is the highest and best use of the property.
Opponents say Proposition 2 would arbitrarily move the property appraisal process further away from a true valuation of property according to its worth. According to some estimates, allowing residential homestead property to be valued based solely on its residential use and exempted from a highest and best use valuation would reduce taxable property values, thereby reducing local tax revenue and requiring a local tax increase or spending cuts to offset the revenue loss. When school districts’ property values per student are lower, the state must provide additional funding to these districts under the Foundation School Program’s equalization formulas. The state cannot afford to increase its obligations in this manner, especially when state finances are expected to be spread thin over the next few years.
Proposition 3: Allowing State Enforcement of Uniform Property Appraisal Standards and Procedures
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.”
Proposition 3 would remove the current constitutional requirement that administrative and judicial enforcement of uniform standards and procedures for property appraisal originate in the county where the tax is imposed. Instead, the legislature would be granted authority to design and create the standards and procedures, so that they do not vary from county to county.
Supporters say that since property owners across the state have seen large increases in the appraised value of their property, the often inequitable increase can be attributed to the differing local appraisal practices and methods across different districts. The state has been left with little meaningful supervisory or administrative power over the standards and methods that local appraisal districts use to value property. Property located in one Texas county should be appraised in the same manner and according to the same rule as similar property located in another Texas county.
Opponents say that Proposition 3 is unnecessary since the state already exerts influence over the appraisal standards through training provided by the state Comptroller’s office and through the comptroller’s annual property tax study. Additionally, opponents worry that Proposition 3 could lead to a loss of local control since county appraisal districts know their local markets and economic realities better than state officials do. Enforcing standards at the state level could impose a one-size-fits-all solution that might not produce the most accurate appraisals for each local district.
If you have questions regarding any of these constitutional amendments or the upcoming election, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sources:
The Texas House Research Organization
Calloway's Timely Tip for November Gardeners
Timely Tip for November Gardeners from
Calloway’s Nursery
Planting Spring Flowering Bulbs in Fall
Spring flowering bulbs are such a welcoming sight after those long Winter months. Many of the Spring flowering bulbs require an artificial “chilling” process before they can be planted. This is generally accomplished by placing the bulbs in a paper bag in the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator for six to eight weeks prior to planting. However, Calloway’s Nursery is offering to do that for you. We have many varieties of Tulips, Hyacinths and Narcissus which you can purchase from our stores now and pick-up in December ready to plant. Let us simplify those “chilling” requirements!
We also will be offering pre-chilled Tulips and Narcissus bulbs online at http://mytexasgarden.com/index.php/estore/.
When planting bulbs, the general rule is to plant them at a depth three times the diameter of the bulb. Use Calloway’s Blood & Bone Meal at planting for added nutrients. Plant the bulbs pointed end up, cover with soil and water thoroughly. For the best display, plant bulbs in clusters or uneven numbers. Apply two to three inches of mulch on top of the bed.
For more information on bulbs, visit any of our Calloway’s stores and talk with one of our Texas Certified Nursery Professionals.
Calloway’s Nursery
Planting Spring Flowering Bulbs in Fall
Spring flowering bulbs are such a welcoming sight after those long Winter months. Many of the Spring flowering bulbs require an artificial “chilling” process before they can be planted. This is generally accomplished by placing the bulbs in a paper bag in the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator for six to eight weeks prior to planting. However, Calloway’s Nursery is offering to do that for you. We have many varieties of Tulips, Hyacinths and Narcissus which you can purchase from our stores now and pick-up in December ready to plant. Let us simplify those “chilling” requirements!
We also will be offering pre-chilled Tulips and Narcissus bulbs online at http://mytexasgarden.com/index.php/estore/.
When planting bulbs, the general rule is to plant them at a depth three times the diameter of the bulb. Use Calloway’s Blood & Bone Meal at planting for added nutrients. Plant the bulbs pointed end up, cover with soil and water thoroughly. For the best display, plant bulbs in clusters or uneven numbers. Apply two to three inches of mulch on top of the bed.
For more information on bulbs, visit any of our Calloway’s stores and talk with one of our Texas Certified Nursery Professionals.
September 28, 2009
Wallace Elementary Celebrates its 50th Anniversary
Wallace Elementary School, 9921 Kirkhaven Dr., will celebrate its 50th anniversary with several special events this fall. We welcome former students, parents and staff members, as well as the Lake Highlands community, to join us!
Our theme, WE Celebrate! Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, reflects the many years of cooperative work between Wallace educators, staff, parents, students, and the Lake Highlands community to make Wallace the strong neighborhood school it is today. For the past three years, Wallace has earned the state’s highest rating of Exemplary. Wallace also has been named to the Texas Business Education Coalition honor roll for three years in a row.
On Thursday, October 8, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., join us on the front lawn of the school for the WE Celebrate! Family Picnic. This exciting evening will feature burgers and chicken sandwiches from Outback Steakhouse for only $5 and entertainment from the Wildcat Wranglers, the Highlandettes, and Wallace 3rd- and 4th- grade students. RISD Interim Superintendent Carolyn Bukhair will read a proclamation from Governor Rick Perry, and visitors will enjoy touring the school and viewing Wallace memorabilia in the library.
We also invite you to attend the WE Celebrate! Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, November 21, from 7 – 11 p.m. at the Dallas Elks Lodge, 8850 Lullwater Drive. This festive evening will include a delicious dinner, dancing, and a silent auction with something for everyone. Funds from the picnic and auction will go toward critical improvements within Wallace that will benefit our students, as well as the community.
For more information, or to purchase auction tickets, please visit our website at www.wallacepta.org.
Our theme, WE Celebrate! Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, reflects the many years of cooperative work between Wallace educators, staff, parents, students, and the Lake Highlands community to make Wallace the strong neighborhood school it is today. For the past three years, Wallace has earned the state’s highest rating of Exemplary. Wallace also has been named to the Texas Business Education Coalition honor roll for three years in a row.
On Thursday, October 8, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., join us on the front lawn of the school for the WE Celebrate! Family Picnic. This exciting evening will feature burgers and chicken sandwiches from Outback Steakhouse for only $5 and entertainment from the Wildcat Wranglers, the Highlandettes, and Wallace 3rd- and 4th- grade students. RISD Interim Superintendent Carolyn Bukhair will read a proclamation from Governor Rick Perry, and visitors will enjoy touring the school and viewing Wallace memorabilia in the library.
We also invite you to attend the WE Celebrate! Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, November 21, from 7 – 11 p.m. at the Dallas Elks Lodge, 8850 Lullwater Drive. This festive evening will include a delicious dinner, dancing, and a silent auction with something for everyone. Funds from the picnic and auction will go toward critical improvements within Wallace that will benefit our students, as well as the community.
For more information, or to purchase auction tickets, please visit our website at www.wallacepta.org.
From the Desk of State Representative Allen Vaught
On November 3rd the voters of Texas will have the opportunity to consider 11 proposed amendments to the state’s constitution. In this and the two subsequent editions of this column, I will provide background information on the amendments to encourage an informed trip to the voting booth. As we all know, a democracy rests upon the act of voting.
Proposition 1: Authorizing city and county financing to buy buffer areas near military installations
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the financing, including through tax increment financing, of the acquisition by municipalities and counties of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military installation for the prevention of encroachment or for the construction of roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure to protect or promote the mission of the military installation.”
Proposition 1 would authorize the Legislature to allow cities and counties to issue these bonds so that they could purchase the areas around military installations if necessary. Additionally, cities and counties could purchase the land to construct roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure that protects or promotes the mission of the military installation. The city or county could pledge to increase property taxes for the area in order to repay the bonds or notes. Since the enabling legislation for this amendment did not pass in the legislature, this amendment would only grant authority to the legislature to file legislation making this change in future sessions.
Supporters say Proposition 1 is necessary to grant clear, specific authorization for cities and counties to buy these bonds and notes. Proposition 1 would allow cities and counties to address a growing need to protect military installations from encroachment by preventing or limiting development of the surrounding area. Texas is home to numerous military installations, and in some areas, commercial and residential development has moved closer and closer to the facilities, resulting in problems for both the military facilities and those involved in the development.
Opponents say while protecting military bases is a worthy goal, cities and counties should not be given another reason to increase property taxes. Higher property taxes used to finance bonds to purchase land or build infrastructure could overburden property owners who already carry a heavy load.
Proposition 2: Requiring Appraisal of Residence Homesteads Based Solely on Their Homestead Value
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property’s value as a residence homestead.”
Supporters say the constitutional requirement that property be taxed in proportion to its value has all too often meant that county tax appraisers have valued property based on its “highest and best use” rather than on its current use. For example, a residential property in or near a commercial district may be valued based on its commercial potential even though it currently is being used as a residence. Proposition 2 and its enabling legislation would require that the market value of a residence homestead be determined by its value as a residence homestead, regardless of whether that is the highest and best use of the property.
Opponents say Proposition 2 would arbitrarily move the property appraisal process further away from a true valuation of property according to its worth. According to some estimates, allowing residential homestead property to be valued based solely on its residential use and exempted from a highest and best use valuation would reduce taxable property values, thereby reducing local tax revenue and requiring a local tax increase or spending cuts to offset the revenue loss. When school districts’ property values per student are lower, the state must provide additional funding to these districts under the Foundation School Program’s equalization formulas. The state cannot afford to increase its obligations in this manner, especially when state finances are expected to be spread thin over the next few years.
Proposition 3: Allowing State Enforcement of Uniform Property Appraisal Standards and Procedures
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.”
Proposition 3 would remove the current constitutional requirement that administrative and judicial enforcement of uniform standards and procedures for property appraisal originate in the county where the tax is imposed. Instead, the legislature would be granted authority to design and create the standards and procedures, so that they do not vary from county to county.
Supporters say that since property owners across the state have seen large increases in the appraised value of their property, the often inequitable increase can be attributed to the differing local appraisal practices and methods across different districts. The state has been left with little meaningful supervisory or administrative power over the standards and methods that local appraisal districts use to value property. Property located in one Texas county should be appraised in the same manner and according to the same rule as similar property located in another Texas county.
Opponents say that Proposition 3 is unnecessary since the state already exerts influence over the appraisal standards through training provided by the state Comptroller’s office and through the comptroller’s annual property tax study. Additionally, opponents worry that Proposition 3 could lead to a loss of local control since county appraisal districts know their local markets and economic realities better than state officials do. Enforcing standards at the state level could impose a one-size-fits-all solution that might not produce the most accurate appraisals for each local district.
If you have questions regarding any of these constitutional amendments or the upcoming election, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sources:
The Texas House Research Organization
Proposition 1: Authorizing city and county financing to buy buffer areas near military installations
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the financing, including through tax increment financing, of the acquisition by municipalities and counties of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military installation for the prevention of encroachment or for the construction of roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure to protect or promote the mission of the military installation.”
Proposition 1 would authorize the Legislature to allow cities and counties to issue these bonds so that they could purchase the areas around military installations if necessary. Additionally, cities and counties could purchase the land to construct roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure that protects or promotes the mission of the military installation. The city or county could pledge to increase property taxes for the area in order to repay the bonds or notes. Since the enabling legislation for this amendment did not pass in the legislature, this amendment would only grant authority to the legislature to file legislation making this change in future sessions.
Supporters say Proposition 1 is necessary to grant clear, specific authorization for cities and counties to buy these bonds and notes. Proposition 1 would allow cities and counties to address a growing need to protect military installations from encroachment by preventing or limiting development of the surrounding area. Texas is home to numerous military installations, and in some areas, commercial and residential development has moved closer and closer to the facilities, resulting in problems for both the military facilities and those involved in the development.
Opponents say while protecting military bases is a worthy goal, cities and counties should not be given another reason to increase property taxes. Higher property taxes used to finance bonds to purchase land or build infrastructure could overburden property owners who already carry a heavy load.
Proposition 2: Requiring Appraisal of Residence Homesteads Based Solely on Their Homestead Value
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property’s value as a residence homestead.”
Supporters say the constitutional requirement that property be taxed in proportion to its value has all too often meant that county tax appraisers have valued property based on its “highest and best use” rather than on its current use. For example, a residential property in or near a commercial district may be valued based on its commercial potential even though it currently is being used as a residence. Proposition 2 and its enabling legislation would require that the market value of a residence homestead be determined by its value as a residence homestead, regardless of whether that is the highest and best use of the property.
Opponents say Proposition 2 would arbitrarily move the property appraisal process further away from a true valuation of property according to its worth. According to some estimates, allowing residential homestead property to be valued based solely on its residential use and exempted from a highest and best use valuation would reduce taxable property values, thereby reducing local tax revenue and requiring a local tax increase or spending cuts to offset the revenue loss. When school districts’ property values per student are lower, the state must provide additional funding to these districts under the Foundation School Program’s equalization formulas. The state cannot afford to increase its obligations in this manner, especially when state finances are expected to be spread thin over the next few years.
Proposition 3: Allowing State Enforcement of Uniform Property Appraisal Standards and Procedures
The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.”
Proposition 3 would remove the current constitutional requirement that administrative and judicial enforcement of uniform standards and procedures for property appraisal originate in the county where the tax is imposed. Instead, the legislature would be granted authority to design and create the standards and procedures, so that they do not vary from county to county.
Supporters say that since property owners across the state have seen large increases in the appraised value of their property, the often inequitable increase can be attributed to the differing local appraisal practices and methods across different districts. The state has been left with little meaningful supervisory or administrative power over the standards and methods that local appraisal districts use to value property. Property located in one Texas county should be appraised in the same manner and according to the same rule as similar property located in another Texas county.
Opponents say that Proposition 3 is unnecessary since the state already exerts influence over the appraisal standards through training provided by the state Comptroller’s office and through the comptroller’s annual property tax study. Additionally, opponents worry that Proposition 3 could lead to a loss of local control since county appraisal districts know their local markets and economic realities better than state officials do. Enforcing standards at the state level could impose a one-size-fits-all solution that might not produce the most accurate appraisals for each local district.
If you have questions regarding any of these constitutional amendments or the upcoming election, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. Please free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us, and be sure to include your name and full address. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sources:
The Texas House Research Organization
September 3, 2009
Green Festival - Sunday, September 20, 2009
Dear HOA Representatives,
Join us for eco-friendly family fun! On behalf of the City of Dallas, Office of Environmental Quality we would like to invite your Home Owner’s Association to help us kick off National Pollution Prevention week with our educational Green Festival designed to raise awareness about living a green lifestyle.
Over 50 green organizations will share free information about how you can prevent pollution and protect the environment. Enjoy recycled arts n’ crafts, eco-friendly food, electric car demonstrations, interactive games and activities, face-painting, and earth friendly giveaways!
Learn what you and your neighbors can do to make a difference at the Green Festival on Sunday, September 20th from 11am-3pm at the Bath House Cultural Center (White Rock Lake) E Lawther Drive, Dallas 75218. The event is free and open to the public. Please see attached flyer for details and contact us with questions at 214-671-8980 or Hannah.kolni@dallascityhall.com.
Thanks for all you do for the planet and we look forward to seeing you there!
Best wishes,
Brittany Westphal
City of Dallas, Office of Environmental Quality
Environmental Coordinator
brittany.westphal@dallascityhall.com
Join us for eco-friendly family fun! On behalf of the City of Dallas, Office of Environmental Quality we would like to invite your Home Owner’s Association to help us kick off National Pollution Prevention week with our educational Green Festival designed to raise awareness about living a green lifestyle.
Over 50 green organizations will share free information about how you can prevent pollution and protect the environment. Enjoy recycled arts n’ crafts, eco-friendly food, electric car demonstrations, interactive games and activities, face-painting, and earth friendly giveaways!
Learn what you and your neighbors can do to make a difference at the Green Festival on Sunday, September 20th from 11am-3pm at the Bath House Cultural Center (White Rock Lake) E Lawther Drive, Dallas 75218. The event is free and open to the public. Please see attached flyer for details and contact us with questions at 214-671-8980 or Hannah.kolni@dallascityhall.com.
Thanks for all you do for the planet and we look forward to seeing you there!
Best wishes,
Brittany Westphal
City of Dallas, Office of Environmental Quality
Environmental Coordinator
brittany.westphal@dallascityhall.com
Calloway's Dawn 'til Dusk Sale
Dear Good Neighbor Program Participant,
The weather is cooling off, and the Fall season is approaching.
At Calloway’s Nursery, we are preparing for our third annual Dawn ‘til Dusk event. Each location is opening with the sun at 7:04 a.m. and remaining open until 7:47 p.m. Please let your neighbors know about this once a year opportunity. Everything in the store will be 30% or more off! Fall is a great time for planting and adding fresh color to the neighborhood.
We look forward to seeing you and your neighbors on Saturday!
The weather is cooling off, and the Fall season is approaching.
At Calloway’s Nursery, we are preparing for our third annual Dawn ‘til Dusk event. Each location is opening with the sun at 7:04 a.m. and remaining open until 7:47 p.m. Please let your neighbors know about this once a year opportunity. Everything in the store will be 30% or more off! Fall is a great time for planting and adding fresh color to the neighborhood.
We look forward to seeing you and your neighbors on Saturday!
August 31, 2009
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. This month Texas students head back to school for the 2009-2010 school year, so in this article, I would like to specifically discuss some of the new legislation affecting public school students.
Public School Accountability Overhaul
For the first time, Texas will use college readiness as a measure of school accountability. The English III and Algebra II end-of-course exams will be designed to measure college readiness and prepare students for the rigor of college-level work. House Bill 3 adds more electives to the recommended graduation plan so that students can enjoy increased flexibility with their schedules.
Although the emphasis on TAKS testing will be lowered for student progression through the Texas education system, it will still be a factor used to measure school accountability. High school students will demonstrate knowledge on end-of-course exams as a graduation requirement. House Bill 3 removes a prohibition against promoting a student to fourth grade if the student did not pass the TAKS third grade reading test and instead considers a variety of factors for promotion.
Additionally, campuses will be able to earn distinctions for outstanding academic achievement in several areas including growth in student achievement, closing the academic testing gaps, fine arts, physical education, the four core subjects, 21st Century Workforce Development, and second language learning.
Teacher Retention
Statistics suggest alarming teacher retention rates with more than 50 percent of teachers leaving the field within five years. In 1996, Texas began a pilot program that required school districts to assign a mentor to beginning teachers. Evaluations of this program and other studies have shown that mentoring indeed improves retention rates for teachers. With increasing demand for teachers to move into different subject areas, the state must find cost-effective ways to ease the transition and provide assistance for those teachers who need support. Senate Bill 1290 expands this program so that beginning teachers (with less than two years experience) and teachers entering new subject areas or grade levels are also included in the mentoring program.
Electronic Textbooks
School districts will now be allowed to use their remaining textbook and technology funds to purchase electronic textbooks and materials to supplement their already purchased State Board of Education approved textbooks. House Bill 4294 provides school districts with the opportunity to make the digital transition and will give computer savvy children more tools for learning. Engaging and interactive instructional materials will help ensure we bring our students into the 21st century era of technology and prepare them for the future.
College Visits
Recent studies show that the likelihood of a student attending college directly after high school increases with college campus visits during their junior and senior years. Previously, if a student chose to take their visit during the school year it was not counted as an excused absence and could count against their attendance record. House Bill 2542 authorizes school districts to excuse up to two days’ absence for a high school student during the student’s junior and senior years to visit an institution of higher education. School districts are also charged with establishing verification procedures for these visits. This new law takes effect for the 2009-2010 school year.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
If any parents or educators have questions regarding the new state laws and policies, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. If you have particular questions regarding legislation mentioned in these articles, please feel free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us. I look forward to hearing from you.
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. This month Texas students head back to school for the 2009-2010 school year, so in this article, I would like to specifically discuss some of the new legislation affecting public school students.
Public School Accountability Overhaul
For the first time, Texas will use college readiness as a measure of school accountability. The English III and Algebra II end-of-course exams will be designed to measure college readiness and prepare students for the rigor of college-level work. House Bill 3 adds more electives to the recommended graduation plan so that students can enjoy increased flexibility with their schedules.
Although the emphasis on TAKS testing will be lowered for student progression through the Texas education system, it will still be a factor used to measure school accountability. High school students will demonstrate knowledge on end-of-course exams as a graduation requirement. House Bill 3 removes a prohibition against promoting a student to fourth grade if the student did not pass the TAKS third grade reading test and instead considers a variety of factors for promotion.
Additionally, campuses will be able to earn distinctions for outstanding academic achievement in several areas including growth in student achievement, closing the academic testing gaps, fine arts, physical education, the four core subjects, 21st Century Workforce Development, and second language learning.
Teacher Retention
Statistics suggest alarming teacher retention rates with more than 50 percent of teachers leaving the field within five years. In 1996, Texas began a pilot program that required school districts to assign a mentor to beginning teachers. Evaluations of this program and other studies have shown that mentoring indeed improves retention rates for teachers. With increasing demand for teachers to move into different subject areas, the state must find cost-effective ways to ease the transition and provide assistance for those teachers who need support. Senate Bill 1290 expands this program so that beginning teachers (with less than two years experience) and teachers entering new subject areas or grade levels are also included in the mentoring program.
Electronic Textbooks
School districts will now be allowed to use their remaining textbook and technology funds to purchase electronic textbooks and materials to supplement their already purchased State Board of Education approved textbooks. House Bill 4294 provides school districts with the opportunity to make the digital transition and will give computer savvy children more tools for learning. Engaging and interactive instructional materials will help ensure we bring our students into the 21st century era of technology and prepare them for the future.
College Visits
Recent studies show that the likelihood of a student attending college directly after high school increases with college campus visits during their junior and senior years. Previously, if a student chose to take their visit during the school year it was not counted as an excused absence and could count against their attendance record. House Bill 2542 authorizes school districts to excuse up to two days’ absence for a high school student during the student’s junior and senior years to visit an institution of higher education. School districts are also charged with establishing verification procedures for these visits. This new law takes effect for the 2009-2010 school year.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
If any parents or educators have questions regarding the new state laws and policies, I invite you to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244. If you have particular questions regarding legislation mentioned in these articles, please feel free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us. I look forward to hearing from you.
August 27, 2009
From John Gould, Audelia Road Library
AUDELIA ROAD LIBRARY FRIENDS
www.audelialibraryfriends.org
SEPTEMBER 2009
AUDELIA BRANCH LIBRARY EVENTS
214-670-1350
CHILDREN
10:30 Family Pre-School Storytimes…
September 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30
Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for pre-schoolers
Tues. 8 10:30 Library Live (Pre-School Age)
Join us for the monthly Chase Bank program presentation.
Tues. 17 3:30 Small Change Craft Program
Children make craft products to donate to organizations for
children in need.
Sat. 19 2:00 Read to Rocky (K-5 yrs.) Children Practice Reading to Dogs
Bring your own books or use some of ours.
TEEN CENTER
Five laptop computers are available for teens plus board games and programs.
Sat. 12 1:00 Moving Words Literacy Camp:
Expressing the Essence of Y-O-U
Moving Words is a one-hour literacy camp with local writers
to assist teens in the art of creative writing. Teens will develop or enhance their ability to express thoughts, feelings and emotions.
Adult
Thurs. 3 11:30 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
(Open to Adults)
Tues. 15 6:30 Mystery Book Club (All welcome)
“L.A. Requiem” by Robert Crais
Sat. 19 2-4 Friends Book Sale
Tues. 22 2:00 Friends Board Meeting
Tues. 29 6:30 Audelia Road Book Club (All welcome)
` “Gilead” by Marilyn Robinson
100 copies of BookPage are made available each month by Friends. It is a popular publication so copies are picked up quickly. If you do not get a copy you can always go on line to BookPage.com and read the reviews of the latest books.
If you have books in good condition to donate for our Friends Book Sales, please drop them in the white plastic tub under the Friends Exhibit Table at the library entrance. Books for children are always needed and appreciated. Thanks
Check with library staff for any additional details on the schedule above. Printed copies may be picked up at the Friends Exhibit Table.
Additional information received from John Gould:
Although the budget has not yet been approved by the City Council, it appears that starting in October, the branch libraries will be closed on Sundays and Mondays but open Tuesday through Saturday with the current hours. That is good news because an earlier proposal would have cut the hours open in half. The bad news is that funding for materials (books, journals, etc) may take a big hit. Twenty-nine staff positions in the library system are being eliminated and staff reassignments are in the works.
One of the Audelia branch programs, “Reading to Rocky”, was given great coverage in an on-line daily, Black White Read Lake Highlands Edition. They have 9 photos of small children reading to the dogs and a description of the program. Check it out when you have time. Just go on line to that Edition and search for the August 20 article of “Dogs Help Kids Read” by Kate Mackley.
Friends supplies 100 copies of BookPage a month for library members. It is a popular publication so the copies disappear quickly. If you don’t have an opportunity to get one you can always go on-line to BookPages.com and read reviews of recent releases.
Our next Friends Book Sale will be on Saturday, September 19, 2-4. Bring a friend and come by, browse and buy. All the money raised goes to help support the Audelia Library programs, books, and equipment. Marty Adamson, our volunteer book sale coordinator and other Friends will be glad to help you. You can donate good used books any time by just dropping them in the large white container under the Friends Exhibit table.
Have a good day. If you have any suggestions for our Friends Board of Directors let me know: gould.john@sbcglobal.net
www.audelialibraryfriends.org
SEPTEMBER 2009
AUDELIA BRANCH LIBRARY EVENTS
214-670-1350
CHILDREN
10:30 Family Pre-School Storytimes…
September 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30
Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for pre-schoolers
Tues. 8 10:30 Library Live (Pre-School Age)
Join us for the monthly Chase Bank program presentation.
Tues. 17 3:30 Small Change Craft Program
Children make craft products to donate to organizations for
children in need.
Sat. 19 2:00 Read to Rocky (K-5 yrs.) Children Practice Reading to Dogs
Bring your own books or use some of ours.
TEEN CENTER
Five laptop computers are available for teens plus board games and programs.
Sat. 12 1:00 Moving Words Literacy Camp:
Expressing the Essence of Y-O-U
Moving Words is a one-hour literacy camp with local writers
to assist teens in the art of creative writing. Teens will develop or enhance their ability to express thoughts, feelings and emotions.
Adult
Thurs. 3 11:30 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
(Open to Adults)
Tues. 15 6:30 Mystery Book Club (All welcome)
“L.A. Requiem” by Robert Crais
Sat. 19 2-4 Friends Book Sale
Tues. 22 2:00 Friends Board Meeting
Tues. 29 6:30 Audelia Road Book Club (All welcome)
` “Gilead” by Marilyn Robinson
100 copies of BookPage are made available each month by Friends. It is a popular publication so copies are picked up quickly. If you do not get a copy you can always go on line to BookPage.com and read the reviews of the latest books.
If you have books in good condition to donate for our Friends Book Sales, please drop them in the white plastic tub under the Friends Exhibit Table at the library entrance. Books for children are always needed and appreciated. Thanks
Check with library staff for any additional details on the schedule above. Printed copies may be picked up at the Friends Exhibit Table.
Additional information received from John Gould:
Although the budget has not yet been approved by the City Council, it appears that starting in October, the branch libraries will be closed on Sundays and Mondays but open Tuesday through Saturday with the current hours. That is good news because an earlier proposal would have cut the hours open in half. The bad news is that funding for materials (books, journals, etc) may take a big hit. Twenty-nine staff positions in the library system are being eliminated and staff reassignments are in the works.
One of the Audelia branch programs, “Reading to Rocky”, was given great coverage in an on-line daily, Black White Read Lake Highlands Edition. They have 9 photos of small children reading to the dogs and a description of the program. Check it out when you have time. Just go on line to that Edition and search for the August 20 article of “Dogs Help Kids Read” by Kate Mackley.
Friends supplies 100 copies of BookPage a month for library members. It is a popular publication so the copies disappear quickly. If you don’t have an opportunity to get one you can always go on-line to BookPages.com and read reviews of recent releases.
Our next Friends Book Sale will be on Saturday, September 19, 2-4. Bring a friend and come by, browse and buy. All the money raised goes to help support the Audelia Library programs, books, and equipment. Marty Adamson, our volunteer book sale coordinator and other Friends will be glad to help you. You can donate good used books any time by just dropping them in the large white container under the Friends Exhibit table.
Have a good day. If you have any suggestions for our Friends Board of Directors let me know: gould.john@sbcglobal.net
August 18, 2009
Calloway's Timely Tips for August Gardeners
Timely Tip for August Gardeners
at Calloway’s Nursery:
Bring on the Heat- Summer Color!
During the summer months, re-vitalize your garden beds. Fertilizing, pruning, new mulch and fresh plantings can all bring your flower beds back to life!
Fresh color is still available at Calloway’s in larger sizes for an instant impact. Celosia, Vinca (Periwinkle), Lantana and Purslane are all good, reliable summer bloomers. Plant these directly into beds or containers to replace flowers which have reached their prime. Add Calloway’s Flower Food, a slow release fertilizer, and you will not have to fertilize for two months. Keep old blooms trimmed off to encourage repeat blooming. Add a new layer of mulch to flower beds and to containers to lessen evaporation and keep the soil cooler. Color abounds even in the heat of summer!
We are hosting several opportunities for design help during the month of August. Saturday, August 8th at select stores, a small group Design Class will be held. Space is limited but your spot can be held by pre-registering at www.mytexasgarden.com and click on eStore. A one-on-one design consultation will be held on Saturday, August 22nd at select stores. For more information and to register for one or both, go to www.mytexasgarden.com.
at Calloway’s Nursery:
Bring on the Heat- Summer Color!
During the summer months, re-vitalize your garden beds. Fertilizing, pruning, new mulch and fresh plantings can all bring your flower beds back to life!
Fresh color is still available at Calloway’s in larger sizes for an instant impact. Celosia, Vinca (Periwinkle), Lantana and Purslane are all good, reliable summer bloomers. Plant these directly into beds or containers to replace flowers which have reached their prime. Add Calloway’s Flower Food, a slow release fertilizer, and you will not have to fertilize for two months. Keep old blooms trimmed off to encourage repeat blooming. Add a new layer of mulch to flower beds and to containers to lessen evaporation and keep the soil cooler. Color abounds even in the heat of summer!
We are hosting several opportunities for design help during the month of August. Saturday, August 8th at select stores, a small group Design Class will be held. Space is limited but your spot can be held by pre-registering at www.mytexasgarden.com and click on eStore. A one-on-one design consultation will be held on Saturday, August 22nd at select stores. For more information and to register for one or both, go to www.mytexasgarden.com.
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. In this article, I would like to specifically discuss new legislation affecting higher education in Texas. This session we passed a number of bills directly affecting students in North Texas and provided additional pathways for students to achieve post-secondary success.
“Tier One” Universities
National research universities, often referred to as “Tier One” universities, attract high quality faculty and students and produce valuable research. Currently, Texas only has three “Tier One” Universities: UT-Austin, Texas A&M, and Rice University; however, California has nine “Tier One” schools and New York has seven. In an effort to compete nationally in this area, House Bill 51 provides seven emerging research universities in Texas, including the University of Texas at Arlington, the University of Texas at Dallas, and the University of North Texas, with a pathway to attain “Tier One” status through new innovative funding options. The legislation provides these universities with a performance incentive funding mechanism based on several factors such as the average number of degrees awarded annually, recruitment of high quality faculty, recognized scholarship and research programs, and high-achieving freshman classes.
Public Law School
Under Senate Bill 956, The University of North Texas System was granted authority to establish and operate a public law school in the city of Dallas. This school will serve as the first public law school for the North Texas region. The Dallas-Forth Worth area is currently the largest metropolitan area in the United States without such a school. Applications will be accepted in the Fall of 2010, with classes starting in the Fall of 2011. The University of North Texas at Dallas College of Law will be located in the Old City Hall building in Downtown Dallas. The building was donated by the City of Dallas and they have committed to renovating and converting the building in preparation for the 2011 school year. The Legislature also appropriated $5 million in start-up funding for the school.
Changes to the Top Ten Percent Law
The Top Ten Percent Admissions law was revised this year, but only for the University of Texas at Austin. In order to allow for greater discretion and flexibility in admissions, those admitted under the Top Ten Percent law will be limited to 75 percent of the freshman class. Additionally, Senate Bill 175 limit students from other states and countries to no more than 10 percent of the class. This change goes into effect beginning with the class of 2011, affecting those high school students about to enter their junior year. Hopefully, capping the number admitted under this law will allow the university to accept students based on their talents, achievements, and experience in conjunction with their GPA.
Excessive College Credit Hours
House Bill 101 seeks to remedy an unintended consequence of college formula funding, one that caused students who received dual credit hours in high school to be charged for out of state tuition if they exceed a certain number of hours. This legislation ensures that dual credit course hours taken in high school will not be counted against the 30 hour cap currently in place, once the student enrolls in a four-year college. These changes take effect for the 2011-2012 school year and guarantees that a student will not have to pay nonresident tuition as long as the courses were taken in high school and satisfied graduation requirements.
Summer Engineering Programs & Scholarships
Currently, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) administers a one-week summer program at public state universities for middle and high school students to learn about mathematics, science, and engineering concepts they are likely to encounter in an engineering degree program. House Bill 2425 expands this program to private universities as well, since almost 25 percent of the bachelors degrees awarded in the state come from private universities.
Additionally, the THECB will establish a scholarship program for all high school graduates with certain credentials that decide to pursue an engineering degree at either a public or private university. By reaching out to those students interested in math and science at a young age, we can help ensure they have the resources needed to succeed at the college level and lead Texas to compete nationally and globally in those fields.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. If you have particular questions regarding legislation mentioned in these articles, please feel free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us. I look forward to hearing from you.
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. In this article, I would like to specifically discuss new legislation affecting higher education in Texas. This session we passed a number of bills directly affecting students in North Texas and provided additional pathways for students to achieve post-secondary success.
“Tier One” Universities
National research universities, often referred to as “Tier One” universities, attract high quality faculty and students and produce valuable research. Currently, Texas only has three “Tier One” Universities: UT-Austin, Texas A&M, and Rice University; however, California has nine “Tier One” schools and New York has seven. In an effort to compete nationally in this area, House Bill 51 provides seven emerging research universities in Texas, including the University of Texas at Arlington, the University of Texas at Dallas, and the University of North Texas, with a pathway to attain “Tier One” status through new innovative funding options. The legislation provides these universities with a performance incentive funding mechanism based on several factors such as the average number of degrees awarded annually, recruitment of high quality faculty, recognized scholarship and research programs, and high-achieving freshman classes.
Public Law School
Under Senate Bill 956, The University of North Texas System was granted authority to establish and operate a public law school in the city of Dallas. This school will serve as the first public law school for the North Texas region. The Dallas-Forth Worth area is currently the largest metropolitan area in the United States without such a school. Applications will be accepted in the Fall of 2010, with classes starting in the Fall of 2011. The University of North Texas at Dallas College of Law will be located in the Old City Hall building in Downtown Dallas. The building was donated by the City of Dallas and they have committed to renovating and converting the building in preparation for the 2011 school year. The Legislature also appropriated $5 million in start-up funding for the school.
Changes to the Top Ten Percent Law
The Top Ten Percent Admissions law was revised this year, but only for the University of Texas at Austin. In order to allow for greater discretion and flexibility in admissions, those admitted under the Top Ten Percent law will be limited to 75 percent of the freshman class. Additionally, Senate Bill 175 limit students from other states and countries to no more than 10 percent of the class. This change goes into effect beginning with the class of 2011, affecting those high school students about to enter their junior year. Hopefully, capping the number admitted under this law will allow the university to accept students based on their talents, achievements, and experience in conjunction with their GPA.
Excessive College Credit Hours
House Bill 101 seeks to remedy an unintended consequence of college formula funding, one that caused students who received dual credit hours in high school to be charged for out of state tuition if they exceed a certain number of hours. This legislation ensures that dual credit course hours taken in high school will not be counted against the 30 hour cap currently in place, once the student enrolls in a four-year college. These changes take effect for the 2011-2012 school year and guarantees that a student will not have to pay nonresident tuition as long as the courses were taken in high school and satisfied graduation requirements.
Summer Engineering Programs & Scholarships
Currently, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) administers a one-week summer program at public state universities for middle and high school students to learn about mathematics, science, and engineering concepts they are likely to encounter in an engineering degree program. House Bill 2425 expands this program to private universities as well, since almost 25 percent of the bachelors degrees awarded in the state come from private universities.
Additionally, the THECB will establish a scholarship program for all high school graduates with certain credentials that decide to pursue an engineering degree at either a public or private university. By reaching out to those students interested in math and science at a young age, we can help ensure they have the resources needed to succeed at the college level and lead Texas to compete nationally and globally in those fields.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. If you have particular questions regarding legislation mentioned in these articles, please feel free to email me as well at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us. I look forward to hearing from you.
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
July 28, 2009
New Immunization Requirements Go Into Effect August 1st
Dallas – State Representative Allen Vaught (Dallas) reminds Texans that new vaccination requirements take effect August 1, 2009, primarily for children in kindergarten through 7th grade.
The Texas Department of State Health Services revised the list of vaccination requirements this March, as they do every four years, to align more closely with federal guidelines. Five new immunizations have been added to the state’s list and students will not be allowed to enter school this year unless they are up to date on all vaccinations. “I urge all parents to review the new list of immunizations so that their children are prepared for this upcoming school year,” said Rep. Vaught.
The five new immunizations:
1) Hepatitis A Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten.
2) Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten.
3) Varicella Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten and 7th grade. A written statement from a parent or doctor confirming history of chickenpox will be accepted in lieu of one dose of the vaccine.
4) Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular pertussis-containing vaccine (Tdap): One dose of the vaccine is required for all students entering 7th grade. If it has been five years since the child’s last dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine, then they are required to have a booster dose of Tdap. Students in 8th through 12th grade will be required to have a booster dose of Tdap vaccine if it has been ten years since their previous dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine.
5) Meningococcal Vaccine: One dose of the vaccine is require for all students entering 7th grade.
For a list of all immunizations required for school age children, please contact the Texas Department of State Health Services at (800) 252-9152. Children needing additional immunizations before the school year should contact their family doctor or Dallas County Health and Human Services, which provides immunizations at locations throughout Dallas County. Parents can call (214) 819-2000 for a list of local clinics and for more information. There is a $10.00 fee per child for children through age 18 for the first visit, then $5 for repeat visits.
New Immunization Requirements Go Into Effect August 1st
Dallas – State Representative Allen Vaught (Dallas) reminds Texans that new vaccination requirements take effect August 1, 2009, primarily for children in kindergarten through 7th grade.
The Texas Department of State Health Services revised the list of vaccination requirements this March, as they do every four years, to align more closely with federal guidelines. Five new immunizations have been added to the state’s list and students will not be allowed to enter school this year unless they are up to date on all vaccinations. “I urge all parents to review the new list of immunizations so that their children are prepared for this upcoming school year,” said Rep. Vaught.
The five new immunizations:
1) Hepatitis A Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten.
2) Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten.
3) Varicella Vaccine: Two doses of the vaccine are required for all students entering kindergarten and 7th grade. A written statement from a parent or doctor confirming history of chickenpox will be accepted in lieu of one dose of the vaccine.
4) Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular pertussis-containing vaccine (Tdap): One dose of the vaccine is required for all students entering 7th grade. If it has been five years since the child’s last dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine, then they are required to have a booster dose of Tdap. Students in 8th through 12th grade will be required to have a booster dose of Tdap vaccine if it has been ten years since their previous dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine.
5) Meningococcal Vaccine: One dose of the vaccine is require for all students entering 7th grade.
For a list of all immunizations required for school age children, please contact the Texas Department of State Health Services at (800) 252-9152. Children needing additional immunizations before the school year should contact their family doctor or Dallas County Health and Human Services, which provides immunizations at locations throughout Dallas County. Parents can call (214) 819-2000 for a list of local clinics and for more information. There is a $10.00 fee per child for children through age 18 for the first visit, then $5 for repeat visits.
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. In this article, I would like to specifically discuss new legislation affecting property appraisals, both residential and commercial. We passed a series of bills this session dedicated to controlling appraisal rates and simplifying the appeals process for Texas residents.
Consistent Appraisal Practices
House Bill 8 allows the Comptroller to conduct the Property Value Study (PVS) every other year, rather than every year as require by current law. This change will allow the Comptroller to perform a thorough audit in the off year that will review appraisal districts’ procedures, methodology, governance, and how they treat taxpayers. The goal of this audit is to increase accuracy and improve standards and practices of property appraisals in Texas. Under current law, there is no state oversight beyond the property value study, and the current system does not exert enough pressure on appraisal districts to produce accurate and professional valuations. This legislation, however, will take one step forward in ensuring appraisals are fair and transparent.
Market Value Based on Residence
One of most significant pieces of appraisal reform legislation we passed in Austin mandates that the land of a residence homestead be appraised as a residence and not be appraised based on the highest and best use of the property. Across the state, several residences were being appraised based on what the land would be sold for if it was converted to commercial property. House Bill 3613 will protect Texas homesteads, especially those in neighborhoods serving as transition zones from residential to commercial. Although this legislation was passed and signed by the Governor, it will only go into effect if approved by the voters as a constitutional amendment this November.
Mandatory Training Courses for Appraisers
Many Texans have expressed their concerns about local appraisal review boards and their ability to handle appraisal appeals. House Bill 2317 establishes a mandatory training course for all appraisal review board members that includes information on the comparison methods of appraising property, the requirements regarding the equal and uniform appraisal of property, and regarding the independence of an appraisal review board from the board of directors and the chief appraiser, among other issues. The legislation also encourages the board of the directors of the appraisal district to select a chairman who has a background in law and property appraisal. Hopefully, these measures will promote uniformity in the appraisal process throughout the state.
Requirement of Substantial Evidence for Appraisers
Prior to this legislation, there was no set standard for appraisal districts for evaluating property values that had been successfully appealed and protested the year before. Unfortunately, this often resulted in property owners receiving an initial value that was the same or higher than the value that was the subject of the preceding year’s protest, even if there had been little or no change to the property. Senate Bill 771 requires chief appraisers to present substantial evidence for increasing the appraised value of property whose value was reduced on successful appeal in the prior year. Furthermore, the legislation provides expedited arbitration as an additional means to appeal decisions by the Appraisal Review Board.
Pilot Program for Commercial Property Appraisal Appeals
House Bill 3612 creates a six-county pilot program for owners of commercial property valued at $1 million or more to appeal local Appraisal Review Board decisions to the State Office of Administrative Hearings. The six counties include Harris, Tarrant, Bexar, Travis, Cameron, and El Paso Counties. The program is limited to 3,000 appeals statewide. Currently, the only appeals option for property at this value is to appeal to the district court, which can be costly and time consuming. This pilot program provides a less expensive option in a more expedited setting. Dallas County was unfortunately one of the counties removed from this bill during the final days of the legislative session at the request of the city, but should the pilot program prove successful, expect legislation affecting Dallas County to be filed next session.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
This article continues the series of articles looking at new laws passed during the 81st legislative session. In this article, I would like to specifically discuss new legislation affecting property appraisals, both residential and commercial. We passed a series of bills this session dedicated to controlling appraisal rates and simplifying the appeals process for Texas residents.
Consistent Appraisal Practices
House Bill 8 allows the Comptroller to conduct the Property Value Study (PVS) every other year, rather than every year as require by current law. This change will allow the Comptroller to perform a thorough audit in the off year that will review appraisal districts’ procedures, methodology, governance, and how they treat taxpayers. The goal of this audit is to increase accuracy and improve standards and practices of property appraisals in Texas. Under current law, there is no state oversight beyond the property value study, and the current system does not exert enough pressure on appraisal districts to produce accurate and professional valuations. This legislation, however, will take one step forward in ensuring appraisals are fair and transparent.
Market Value Based on Residence
One of most significant pieces of appraisal reform legislation we passed in Austin mandates that the land of a residence homestead be appraised as a residence and not be appraised based on the highest and best use of the property. Across the state, several residences were being appraised based on what the land would be sold for if it was converted to commercial property. House Bill 3613 will protect Texas homesteads, especially those in neighborhoods serving as transition zones from residential to commercial. Although this legislation was passed and signed by the Governor, it will only go into effect if approved by the voters as a constitutional amendment this November.
Mandatory Training Courses for Appraisers
Many Texans have expressed their concerns about local appraisal review boards and their ability to handle appraisal appeals. House Bill 2317 establishes a mandatory training course for all appraisal review board members that includes information on the comparison methods of appraising property, the requirements regarding the equal and uniform appraisal of property, and regarding the independence of an appraisal review board from the board of directors and the chief appraiser, among other issues. The legislation also encourages the board of the directors of the appraisal district to select a chairman who has a background in law and property appraisal. Hopefully, these measures will promote uniformity in the appraisal process throughout the state.
Requirement of Substantial Evidence for Appraisers
Prior to this legislation, there was no set standard for appraisal districts for evaluating property values that had been successfully appealed and protested the year before. Unfortunately, this often resulted in property owners receiving an initial value that was the same or higher than the value that was the subject of the preceding year’s protest, even if there had been little or no change to the property. Senate Bill 771 requires chief appraisers to present substantial evidence for increasing the appraised value of property whose value was reduced on successful appeal in the prior year. Furthermore, the legislation provides expedited arbitration as an additional means to appeal decisions by the Appraisal Review Board.
Pilot Program for Commercial Property Appraisal Appeals
House Bill 3612 creates a six-county pilot program for owners of commercial property valued at $1 million or more to appeal local Appraisal Review Board decisions to the State Office of Administrative Hearings. The six counties include Harris, Tarrant, Bexar, Travis, Cameron, and El Paso Counties. The program is limited to 3,000 appeals statewide. Currently, the only appeals option for property at this value is to appeal to the district court, which can be costly and time consuming. This pilot program provides a less expensive option in a more expedited setting. Dallas County was unfortunately one of the counties removed from this bill during the final days of the legislative session at the request of the city, but should the pilot program prove successful, expect legislation affecting Dallas County to be filed next session.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
Audelia Road Library
AUDELIA ROAD LIBRARY FRIENDS
www.audelialibraryfriends.org
AUGUST 2009
AUDELIA BRANCH LIBRARY EVENTS
214-670-1350
CHILDREN
10:30 Pre-School Storytimes…August 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for pre-schoolers
Sat. 8 5:00 Mayor’s Summer Reading Program Ends, Turn in Reports
Tues. 11 10:30 Library Live (Pre-School Age)
Shapes Friends with Rochelle Rabouin
Sat. 15 2:00 Read to Rocky (K-5 yrs.) Children Practice Reading to Dogs
Bring your own books or use some of ours.
TEEN CENTER
Five laptop computers are available for teens plus board games and programs.
Tues. 6 2:00 Gaming and Comic Books Courtesy of Lone Star Comics
Tues. 21 1:00 Gizmo’s Tattoos will present a program on safe tattoos and
the latest tattoo designs.
Wed. 19 2:00 World-N-Me: See the world through a different lens
One-hour workshop that can help you sharpen your eye
to get those incredible shots that will make your MySpace, Facebook, special.
Wed. 19 2:00 World-N-Me: Photography
Professionals will work with teens on editing digital photos that they can use for their website, MySpace, etc.
Thurs. 20 1:00 Frisco Rough Riders; Broadcaster Scott Garner, Broadcaster, will talk about the baseball team, broadcasting, the softball program and lessons baseball teaches young adults.
Adult
Thurs. 6 11:30 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (Open to Adults)
Sun. 16 2 to 4 Friends Book Sale
Tues. 18 6:30 Mystery Book Club (All welcome)
“Alibi” by Joseph Kanon
Tues. 28 6:30 Audelia Road Book Club (All welcome)
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger
Tues. 25 2:00 Friends Board Meeting
If you have books in good condition to donate for our Friends Book Sales, please drop them in the white plastic tub under the Friends Exhibit Table at the library entrance. Books for children are always needed and appreciated. Thanks
www.audelialibraryfriends.org
AUGUST 2009
AUDELIA BRANCH LIBRARY EVENTS
214-670-1350
CHILDREN
10:30 Pre-School Storytimes…August 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for pre-schoolers
Sat. 8 5:00 Mayor’s Summer Reading Program Ends, Turn in Reports
Tues. 11 10:30 Library Live (Pre-School Age)
Shapes Friends with Rochelle Rabouin
Sat. 15 2:00 Read to Rocky (K-5 yrs.) Children Practice Reading to Dogs
Bring your own books or use some of ours.
TEEN CENTER
Five laptop computers are available for teens plus board games and programs.
Tues. 6 2:00 Gaming and Comic Books Courtesy of Lone Star Comics
Tues. 21 1:00 Gizmo’s Tattoos will present a program on safe tattoos and
the latest tattoo designs.
Wed. 19 2:00 World-N-Me: See the world through a different lens
One-hour workshop that can help you sharpen your eye
to get those incredible shots that will make your MySpace, Facebook, special.
Wed. 19 2:00 World-N-Me: Photography
Professionals will work with teens on editing digital photos that they can use for their website, MySpace, etc.
Thurs. 20 1:00 Frisco Rough Riders; Broadcaster Scott Garner, Broadcaster, will talk about the baseball team, broadcasting, the softball program and lessons baseball teaches young adults.
Adult
Thurs. 6 11:30 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (Open to Adults)
Sun. 16 2 to 4 Friends Book Sale
Tues. 18 6:30 Mystery Book Club (All welcome)
“Alibi” by Joseph Kanon
Tues. 28 6:30 Audelia Road Book Club (All welcome)
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger
Tues. 25 2:00 Friends Board Meeting
If you have books in good condition to donate for our Friends Book Sales, please drop them in the white plastic tub under the Friends Exhibit Table at the library entrance. Books for children are always needed and appreciated. Thanks
Timely Tip for September Gardeners at Calloway's Nursery
Fall Lawn Care
Research has proven that your Fall lawn feeding is one of the most important ones of the year! Your lawn has just gone through the stressful summer months and needs nutrients for rebuilding. Calloway’s Premium Lawn Food supplies three sources of nitrogen. The first source provides a quick shot of nitrogen to give your lawn a nice greening effect. The other two are control-released to provide a consistent supply of nitrogen over the next several months. The 21-5-10 formula also supplies the needed nutrients to stimulate root development, make your grass hardier for the Winter months and provide food for next Spring’s growth!
Apply it this month or the first of October. For those who are organic gardeners, Calloway’s Organic Fertilizer contains seven food grade meals and can also be applied now.
This is also the time to apply pre-emergents to prevent broadleaf and grassy weed seeds from sprouting over Winter and Spring. Apply Greenlight Crabgrass Preventer with Dimension for grassy weeds and Portrait for those pesky broadleaf weeds. For our organic gardeners, use Corn Gluten Meal as a natural pre-emergent.
So, don’t kick back and settle into football season quite yet-apply your fertilizers and pre-emergents now and enjoy your own green field next Spring!
Research has proven that your Fall lawn feeding is one of the most important ones of the year! Your lawn has just gone through the stressful summer months and needs nutrients for rebuilding. Calloway’s Premium Lawn Food supplies three sources of nitrogen. The first source provides a quick shot of nitrogen to give your lawn a nice greening effect. The other two are control-released to provide a consistent supply of nitrogen over the next several months. The 21-5-10 formula also supplies the needed nutrients to stimulate root development, make your grass hardier for the Winter months and provide food for next Spring’s growth!
Apply it this month or the first of October. For those who are organic gardeners, Calloway’s Organic Fertilizer contains seven food grade meals and can also be applied now.
This is also the time to apply pre-emergents to prevent broadleaf and grassy weed seeds from sprouting over Winter and Spring. Apply Greenlight Crabgrass Preventer with Dimension for grassy weeds and Portrait for those pesky broadleaf weeds. For our organic gardeners, use Corn Gluten Meal as a natural pre-emergent.
So, don’t kick back and settle into football season quite yet-apply your fertilizers and pre-emergents now and enjoy your own green field next Spring!
June 22, 2009
Calloway's Timely Tip for July Gardeners
Summertime Watering
If you have lived through a summer in Texas, then you know how valuable water is to our landscapes. It is our responsibility to conserve water yet keep our gardens thriving through the heat. If you own a sprinkler system, each zone should be programmed differently depending on the needs and you should always operate it manually.
Established lawns should be watered once every five to seven days, applying about one inch of water. This soaking encourages deeper rooting which leads to stronger, healthier plants.
Shrubs and flowerbeds may require more watering depending on the age of the plant material. A good test is to dig down 4 to 6 inches and feel the soil. If the soil is dry, a good deep watering is in order. Plants in full sun will require more moisture as well as those growing in containers. Please remember, any newly planted tree or shrub requires hand watering for that first year.
The best time of day to water is early morning before the temperatures begin to rise. Also, early mornings tends to be a time of lower winds and thus reduced evaporation.
Mulching is an excellent way to retain moisture. It will also insulate the soil surface from the direct rays of the sun and prevent weeds from germinating. Apply a two to three inch layer of mulch to all beds and plantings. Attend our Free Saturday clinic on July 18th for more water saving ideas.
If you have lived through a summer in Texas, then you know how valuable water is to our landscapes. It is our responsibility to conserve water yet keep our gardens thriving through the heat. If you own a sprinkler system, each zone should be programmed differently depending on the needs and you should always operate it manually.
Established lawns should be watered once every five to seven days, applying about one inch of water. This soaking encourages deeper rooting which leads to stronger, healthier plants.
Shrubs and flowerbeds may require more watering depending on the age of the plant material. A good test is to dig down 4 to 6 inches and feel the soil. If the soil is dry, a good deep watering is in order. Plants in full sun will require more moisture as well as those growing in containers. Please remember, any newly planted tree or shrub requires hand watering for that first year.
The best time of day to water is early morning before the temperatures begin to rise. Also, early mornings tends to be a time of lower winds and thus reduced evaporation.
Mulching is an excellent way to retain moisture. It will also insulate the soil surface from the direct rays of the sun and prevent weeds from germinating. Apply a two to three inch layer of mulch to all beds and plantings. Attend our Free Saturday clinic on July 18th for more water saving ideas.
For a more complete list of clinics, visit http://www.mytexasgarden.com/.
From the desk of Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
The 81st legislative session has drawn to a close. The Governor had until June 21, 20 days after final adjournment, to sign, veto, or allow a bill to become law without his signature. The House and Senate sent 1,459 bills to the Governor. This is the third article in a series about legislation signed by the Governor into law.
Deaf and Blind Services
Adults with the multiple disabilities of deafness and blindness are currently offered a full-service program to meet the person’s specific needs. However, children with the same disabilities are not afforded the same home and community service until they reach age 18, despite the critical need for early intervention. The lack of similar specialized services can create significant difficulties in acquiring educational, vocational, and social skills. Senate Bill 37 opens up the eligibility for services under the deaf-blind with multiple disabilities waiver program at the time of the child’s diagnosis, rather than the age of 18. Adding children to this program provides assistance during child development and reduces hurdles by creating a path for more opportunities.
Survivors of Public Servants Killed in Action
In 1993, the legislature honored the lives and the sacrifice made by public servants killed in the line of duty. The legislature provided the officer’s family some financial assistance with the opportunity to continue purchasing health insurance from the deceased officer’s department. However, previous implementation of the policy varied by department. Some family members were not only required to pay their premiums but the state’s as well. Other families were required to pay the family rate premium that included the cost of two adults in a family plan, when there was only one. Senate Bill 872 clarifies the intent of the original legislation and adopts a uniform healthcare policy for eligible survivors of certain law enforcement officers, fire fighters, or other public servants killed in the line of duty. The adopted change will increase access to affordable health insurance for survivors of a loved one that has made the ultimate sacrifice for their community in the line of duty.
Marriage Ceremony
Currently an officer of a religious organization, a justice of the peace, and almost all federal, state, and county judges have the authority to conduct wedding ceremonies. With the passage of Senate Bill 935, city municipal judges will have that authority as well. For 164 years, couples have headed to the courthouse for their wedding, but now they will be able to go down to City Hall. Couples in smaller municipalities and less populated areas often have difficulty finding an authorized person to perform their ceremony, but with the passage of this bill, their options will expand.
Fall Prevention Awareness
Legislative findings conclude that in 2008, over one million older Texans were expected to sustain falls, with their risk increasing as they age; however, research shows that prevention programs can reduce the incidence of falls by 30-50 percent. House Bill 703 creates a “Fall Prevention Awareness Week” that will take place each year beginning on the first Sunday after the autumnal equinox. The Department of Aging and Disability Services is tasked with developing a program to raise public awareness, educate older adults and caretakers, create fall prevention guidelines, and develop a system for reporting falls to improve available information.
The next article will continue to highlight some major legislation which has passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
The 81st legislative session has drawn to a close. The Governor had until June 21, 20 days after final adjournment, to sign, veto, or allow a bill to become law without his signature. The House and Senate sent 1,459 bills to the Governor. This is the third article in a series about legislation signed by the Governor into law.
Deaf and Blind Services
Adults with the multiple disabilities of deafness and blindness are currently offered a full-service program to meet the person’s specific needs. However, children with the same disabilities are not afforded the same home and community service until they reach age 18, despite the critical need for early intervention. The lack of similar specialized services can create significant difficulties in acquiring educational, vocational, and social skills. Senate Bill 37 opens up the eligibility for services under the deaf-blind with multiple disabilities waiver program at the time of the child’s diagnosis, rather than the age of 18. Adding children to this program provides assistance during child development and reduces hurdles by creating a path for more opportunities.
Survivors of Public Servants Killed in Action
In 1993, the legislature honored the lives and the sacrifice made by public servants killed in the line of duty. The legislature provided the officer’s family some financial assistance with the opportunity to continue purchasing health insurance from the deceased officer’s department. However, previous implementation of the policy varied by department. Some family members were not only required to pay their premiums but the state’s as well. Other families were required to pay the family rate premium that included the cost of two adults in a family plan, when there was only one. Senate Bill 872 clarifies the intent of the original legislation and adopts a uniform healthcare policy for eligible survivors of certain law enforcement officers, fire fighters, or other public servants killed in the line of duty. The adopted change will increase access to affordable health insurance for survivors of a loved one that has made the ultimate sacrifice for their community in the line of duty.
Marriage Ceremony
Currently an officer of a religious organization, a justice of the peace, and almost all federal, state, and county judges have the authority to conduct wedding ceremonies. With the passage of Senate Bill 935, city municipal judges will have that authority as well. For 164 years, couples have headed to the courthouse for their wedding, but now they will be able to go down to City Hall. Couples in smaller municipalities and less populated areas often have difficulty finding an authorized person to perform their ceremony, but with the passage of this bill, their options will expand.
Fall Prevention Awareness
Legislative findings conclude that in 2008, over one million older Texans were expected to sustain falls, with their risk increasing as they age; however, research shows that prevention programs can reduce the incidence of falls by 30-50 percent. House Bill 703 creates a “Fall Prevention Awareness Week” that will take place each year beginning on the first Sunday after the autumnal equinox. The Department of Aging and Disability Services is tasked with developing a program to raise public awareness, educate older adults and caretakers, create fall prevention guidelines, and develop a system for reporting falls to improve available information.
The next article will continue to highlight some major legislation which has passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
June 8, 2009
From the desk of Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
As the 81st legislative session has drawn to a close, I want to continue discussing some of the bills that passed the Texas House and Senate. This is the second article in a series of articles about legislation signed by the Governor to date.
Voter Registration
With the passage of House Bill 536, we hope to prevent the disenfranchisement of military personnel, members of the merchant marine, and any other Texas residents temporarily living abroad. This law authorizes a county to use the federal postcard application to register and apply to vote by mail. The applications are currently available to United States citizens through U.S. embassies and consular offices abroad; however, applying to vote by mail through the federal postcard application process has not served as a form of voter registration when the voter returned home from abroad. This legislation helps to remove that obstacle for voters by allowing the federal postcard application to automatically constitute registration for both the federal postcard application and the standard mail-in ballot.
State Board of Education
Current statute allows Texas governmental bodies the option of broadcasting open meetings over the Internet. For the past five years, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has broadcasted the State Board of Education (SBOE) meetings, but only its audio feed. In an effort to create transparency and open up the lines of communication between Texans and their government, House Bill 772 requires the TEA to broadcast open meetings of the SBOE over the internet through both video and audio feed. This change in law will take effect September 1st this year.
Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases are growing in cost at an annual rate of $90 billion. The Autism Society of America estimates that the cost of ASD care could be reduced by two-thirds with early diagnosis and proper intervention. House Bill 1574 establishes a resource center through the Health and Human Services Commission to aid children and adults affected by ASD. A study will also determine the costs and benefits of initiating a pilot program to provide services to adult persons with autism and other related disabilities with similar support needs.
Nutritious Food Program for Children
Texas currently operates several school lunch and breakfast programs for children at risk, however, many children do not have access to such programs or nutritious food after school or if they are under the age of five. When children do not have access to healthy, nutritious foods, their risk of obesity increases. Obese children can develop serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease, often carrying these conditions into adulthood. House Bill 1622 creates a grant program to provide children at risk for hunger or obesity increased access to nutritious food. The grant program will supplement current efforts by non-profit organizations by providing additional assistance.
Diabetes Education
Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires administering insulin and lifestyle changes such as modifying eating habits and increasing physical activity. A person with diabetes who does not have the proper education to manage their disease may have poor health management. A lack of diabetes education can result in blindness, amputation, kidney disease or heart disease. House Bill 1990 increases coverage under the Texas Medicaid program to include a self-management training pilot program for diabetics, without any significant increase in cost to the state. The Health and Human Services Commission will work with the Texas Diabetes Council to provide this training program.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which has passed during the 81st legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
As the 81st legislative session has drawn to a close, I want to continue discussing some of the bills that passed the Texas House and Senate. This is the second article in a series of articles about legislation signed by the Governor to date.
Voter Registration
With the passage of House Bill 536, we hope to prevent the disenfranchisement of military personnel, members of the merchant marine, and any other Texas residents temporarily living abroad. This law authorizes a county to use the federal postcard application to register and apply to vote by mail. The applications are currently available to United States citizens through U.S. embassies and consular offices abroad; however, applying to vote by mail through the federal postcard application process has not served as a form of voter registration when the voter returned home from abroad. This legislation helps to remove that obstacle for voters by allowing the federal postcard application to automatically constitute registration for both the federal postcard application and the standard mail-in ballot.
State Board of Education
Current statute allows Texas governmental bodies the option of broadcasting open meetings over the Internet. For the past five years, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has broadcasted the State Board of Education (SBOE) meetings, but only its audio feed. In an effort to create transparency and open up the lines of communication between Texans and their government, House Bill 772 requires the TEA to broadcast open meetings of the SBOE over the internet through both video and audio feed. This change in law will take effect September 1st this year.
Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases are growing in cost at an annual rate of $90 billion. The Autism Society of America estimates that the cost of ASD care could be reduced by two-thirds with early diagnosis and proper intervention. House Bill 1574 establishes a resource center through the Health and Human Services Commission to aid children and adults affected by ASD. A study will also determine the costs and benefits of initiating a pilot program to provide services to adult persons with autism and other related disabilities with similar support needs.
Nutritious Food Program for Children
Texas currently operates several school lunch and breakfast programs for children at risk, however, many children do not have access to such programs or nutritious food after school or if they are under the age of five. When children do not have access to healthy, nutritious foods, their risk of obesity increases. Obese children can develop serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease, often carrying these conditions into adulthood. House Bill 1622 creates a grant program to provide children at risk for hunger or obesity increased access to nutritious food. The grant program will supplement current efforts by non-profit organizations by providing additional assistance.
Diabetes Education
Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires administering insulin and lifestyle changes such as modifying eating habits and increasing physical activity. A person with diabetes who does not have the proper education to manage their disease may have poor health management. A lack of diabetes education can result in blindness, amputation, kidney disease or heart disease. House Bill 1990 increases coverage under the Texas Medicaid program to include a self-management training pilot program for diabetics, without any significant increase in cost to the state. The Health and Human Services Commission will work with the Texas Diabetes Council to provide this training program.
The next article will continue to highlight major legislation which has passed during the 81st legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
Audelia Library June Update
To: LHHOA Webmasters and Newsletter Editors
From: John Gould gould.john@sbcglobal.net
Re: Audelia Library June Update 6/3/09
Items:
June Events Calendar
Audelia Library Teen Center
Book Sale
Self Check-Out
1. June Events Calendar
Due to cost-saving efforts the library branches will no long be providing copies of their monthly calendar of activities. Instead, people will have to try finding the information via the internet. This doesn’t help people who don’t have computer access. As a result our Friends board has decided to put together a one-page sheet with all the activities at Audelia separated into those for children, youth and adults. Copies will be left on our Friends Exhibit Table at the entrance for anyone to pick up. A copy of the June calendar is an attachment to this email.
2. Audelia Library Teen Center
AT&T has given the Dallas Library System a grant to establish Teen Centers in
all the branch libraries. Keely Coghlan, library associate, will be responsible for developing the Audelia Teen Center . On Tuesday, June 16, there will be a “Grand Opening“ event starting at 10:30. Some library stacks are being removed to make room for tables and chairs where teens can spend time with lap-top computers provided by AT&T, and board games such as chess, checkers, etc. There are other programs scheduled in the auditorium.
3. June Book Sale
Our Friends monthly 2-hour book sales have been averaging $120 so they are not only worth our effort but they provide a lot of satisfaction for people who like to browse and find books at a very reasonable price. Book donations are steady and recently we received several items on cross-stitching, other needle-work and also quite a number related to cooking. If you have a request for us to be on the lookout for any specific books, let me know and we can make a note to set then aside for you.
At this point the book sales take about three hours of time from set up to put away. Our board members and a few others have been working the sales. If there are any of you who would like to volunteer to help occasionally, we could consider having book sales more often than once a month. Let me know if you are interested. Our next book sale is Sunday, June 28, 2-4.
4. Self Check-Out
Whenever the check-out line gets too long, remember that there is another option. You can use the self check-out machine located near the book drop-off slot if you don’t owe any penalties for late books. If you know how to use it and there is a long line particularly at closing time, it has been suggested that you might show other people how to use the machine. It is really quick and not complicated. Incidentally, Friends recently purchased a black sign, “Please Form A Line Here”, for the Circulation Desk to clarify where people should line up.
Be sure to log on to our Friends website, www.audelialibraryfriends.org, for the monthly calendar of events and catch any changes that may come about after the calendar is printed. If you have any suggestions please let me know.
From: John Gould gould.john@sbcglobal.net
Re: Audelia Library June Update 6/3/09
Items:
June Events Calendar
Audelia Library Teen Center
Book Sale
Self Check-Out
1. June Events Calendar
Due to cost-saving efforts the library branches will no long be providing copies of their monthly calendar of activities. Instead, people will have to try finding the information via the internet. This doesn’t help people who don’t have computer access. As a result our Friends board has decided to put together a one-page sheet with all the activities at Audelia separated into those for children, youth and adults. Copies will be left on our Friends Exhibit Table at the entrance for anyone to pick up. A copy of the June calendar is an attachment to this email.
2. Audelia Library Teen Center
AT&T has given the Dallas Library System a grant to establish Teen Centers in
all the branch libraries. Keely Coghlan, library associate, will be responsible for developing the Audelia Teen Center . On Tuesday, June 16, there will be a “Grand Opening“ event starting at 10:30. Some library stacks are being removed to make room for tables and chairs where teens can spend time with lap-top computers provided by AT&T, and board games such as chess, checkers, etc. There are other programs scheduled in the auditorium.
3. June Book Sale
Our Friends monthly 2-hour book sales have been averaging $120 so they are not only worth our effort but they provide a lot of satisfaction for people who like to browse and find books at a very reasonable price. Book donations are steady and recently we received several items on cross-stitching, other needle-work and also quite a number related to cooking. If you have a request for us to be on the lookout for any specific books, let me know and we can make a note to set then aside for you.
At this point the book sales take about three hours of time from set up to put away. Our board members and a few others have been working the sales. If there are any of you who would like to volunteer to help occasionally, we could consider having book sales more often than once a month. Let me know if you are interested. Our next book sale is Sunday, June 28, 2-4.
4. Self Check-Out
Whenever the check-out line gets too long, remember that there is another option. You can use the self check-out machine located near the book drop-off slot if you don’t owe any penalties for late books. If you know how to use it and there is a long line particularly at closing time, it has been suggested that you might show other people how to use the machine. It is really quick and not complicated. Incidentally, Friends recently purchased a black sign, “Please Form A Line Here”, for the Circulation Desk to clarify where people should line up.
Be sure to log on to our Friends website, www.audelialibraryfriends.org, for the monthly calendar of events and catch any changes that may come about after the calendar is printed. If you have any suggestions please let me know.
May 26, 2009
VIP (Volunteers in Patrol) Class
The next class will be a 1 day school on Saturday, July 18, 2009, from 10 am till 4 pm . The class will be downtown in the basement of City Hall, 1500 Marilla. Get those applications and waivers of liability downloaded from the www.dallaspolice.net web site. I need them by close of business on the Wednesday before the class. BE SAFE//Ron/
Ron Carpenter #3311
Northeast Division
Patrol Bureau
www.northeastcrimewatch.org <http://www.northeastcrimewatch.org/>
Ron Carpenter #3311
Northeast Division
Patrol Bureau
www.northeastcrimewatch.org <http://www.northeastcrimewatch.org/>
Calloway's Timely Tips for June Gardeners
Timely Tip from Calloway’s Nursery
for June Gardeners:
Enjoy Summer Color
Spring flowers become but a memory as summer heats up!
However, our desire for a colorful landscape can still be
achieved. From annuals to perennials to shrubs to trees,
color is found in blooms, foliage and even in the plumes of
ornamental grasses.
The distinct patterns of Caladium leaves or textured foliage
of Coleus adds interest to shady gardens. The dazzling
Daylily or drought-tolerant Lantana provides splashes of
blooms for full sun. Crape Myrtles are sending forth sprays
of blossoms and the Esperanza displays clusters of bellshaped
flowers. Color abounds even in the heat of
summer!
Remember to use Calloway’s premium soils and mixes at
the time of planting and water well with a Root Stimulator
mixture. Also, add two to three inches of mulch to
conserve moisture, help keep the soil cooler and prevent
weeds from growing.
Attend our Free Saturday clinics, especially June 6th which
features the summer blooming Crape Myrtle. For a
complete listing of clinics, visit www.mytexasgarden.com.
for June Gardeners:
Enjoy Summer Color
Spring flowers become but a memory as summer heats up!
However, our desire for a colorful landscape can still be
achieved. From annuals to perennials to shrubs to trees,
color is found in blooms, foliage and even in the plumes of
ornamental grasses.
The distinct patterns of Caladium leaves or textured foliage
of Coleus adds interest to shady gardens. The dazzling
Daylily or drought-tolerant Lantana provides splashes of
blooms for full sun. Crape Myrtles are sending forth sprays
of blossoms and the Esperanza displays clusters of bellshaped
flowers. Color abounds even in the heat of
summer!
Remember to use Calloway’s premium soils and mixes at
the time of planting and water well with a Root Stimulator
mixture. Also, add two to three inches of mulch to
conserve moisture, help keep the soil cooler and prevent
weeds from growing.
Attend our Free Saturday clinics, especially June 6th which
features the summer blooming Crape Myrtle. For a
complete listing of clinics, visit www.mytexasgarden.com.
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Legislation Passed in the 81st Legislative Session
As we draw closer to the end of the 81st legislative session, I want to discuss some of the issues and topics that have passed the House and Senate. This will be a series of articles about legislation, with this first article looking at a few of the bills that have been signed by the Governor to date.
Domestic Violence
We hope to provide some assistance to victims of domestic violence with the passage of Senate Bill 83. Before, a victim wanting to leave an abusive relationship would risk facing fines and charges as well as harm to the their credit and rental history for breaking a residential lease if the abuser was not on the lease with the victim. This bill authorizes a victim or a parent or guardian of a victim of a sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or continuous sexual abuse of a child to terminate a lease early and releases the victim from liability if the assault took place at the leased property. The legislation helps to remove a victim from their living situation without the fear of some negative repercussion to their credit or rental history.
Child Safety
A recalled children's product can unknowingly end up in your child’s child care facility. If a United States Consumer Product Safety Commission recall alert does not reach you or your childcare facility, you risk an unintended injury to your child. Senate Bill 95 stipulates that the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services must include a link on its website to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition, a child care facility must certify in writing that a review of the bulletins and notices regarding recalled children's products has occurred. With over 4,000 product recalls total, this legislation creates another avenue to inform caregivers and protect children.
Children with Disabilities
Healthcare costs are forcing many middle income families with disabled children into difficult circumstances. A family with an income level too high to qualify for Medicaid benefits but low enough that adequate health care is difficult to afford for their disabled children, may find some relief with changes made through Senate Bill 187. In September of this year, the Health and Human Services Commission will implement a Medicaid buy-in program for families with children of certain disabilities. Participants will pay a monthly premium on a sliding scale based on family income.
Emergency Preparedness
Recent natural disasters and the H1N1 flu scare emphasize the need for regional and national coordination among public health officials. The relocation of Texas residents out of Texas requires a seamless exchange of immunization records to help protect everyone's public health. Senate Bill 347 allows the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to share immunization records of Texas resident evacuees with other states and local health departments. Currently, an exchange of records is permitted under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) guidelines. Now, Texas can participate in the process of exchanging information with other states in the interest of public health.
Pipeline Safety
The Railroad Commission is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing oil and natural gas pipeline safety. The pipeline safety program is funded through a user inspection fee and federal matching funds that are distributed based on staffing levels of the safety program. Understaffing of the pipeline safety program reduces federal dollars received by the commission. Senate Bill 1658 makes it possible to add additional personnel to maintain the current programs and receive federal matching funds by slightly increasing the pipeline user inspection fee.
The next several articles will continue to highlight the major legislation which has passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
As we draw closer to the end of the 81st legislative session, I want to discuss some of the issues and topics that have passed the House and Senate. This will be a series of articles about legislation, with this first article looking at a few of the bills that have been signed by the Governor to date.
Domestic Violence
We hope to provide some assistance to victims of domestic violence with the passage of Senate Bill 83. Before, a victim wanting to leave an abusive relationship would risk facing fines and charges as well as harm to the their credit and rental history for breaking a residential lease if the abuser was not on the lease with the victim. This bill authorizes a victim or a parent or guardian of a victim of a sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or continuous sexual abuse of a child to terminate a lease early and releases the victim from liability if the assault took place at the leased property. The legislation helps to remove a victim from their living situation without the fear of some negative repercussion to their credit or rental history.
Child Safety
A recalled children's product can unknowingly end up in your child’s child care facility. If a United States Consumer Product Safety Commission recall alert does not reach you or your childcare facility, you risk an unintended injury to your child. Senate Bill 95 stipulates that the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services must include a link on its website to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition, a child care facility must certify in writing that a review of the bulletins and notices regarding recalled children's products has occurred. With over 4,000 product recalls total, this legislation creates another avenue to inform caregivers and protect children.
Children with Disabilities
Healthcare costs are forcing many middle income families with disabled children into difficult circumstances. A family with an income level too high to qualify for Medicaid benefits but low enough that adequate health care is difficult to afford for their disabled children, may find some relief with changes made through Senate Bill 187. In September of this year, the Health and Human Services Commission will implement a Medicaid buy-in program for families with children of certain disabilities. Participants will pay a monthly premium on a sliding scale based on family income.
Emergency Preparedness
Recent natural disasters and the H1N1 flu scare emphasize the need for regional and national coordination among public health officials. The relocation of Texas residents out of Texas requires a seamless exchange of immunization records to help protect everyone's public health. Senate Bill 347 allows the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to share immunization records of Texas resident evacuees with other states and local health departments. Currently, an exchange of records is permitted under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) guidelines. Now, Texas can participate in the process of exchanging information with other states in the interest of public health.
Pipeline Safety
The Railroad Commission is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing oil and natural gas pipeline safety. The pipeline safety program is funded through a user inspection fee and federal matching funds that are distributed based on staffing levels of the safety program. Understaffing of the pipeline safety program reduces federal dollars received by the commission. Senate Bill 1658 makes it possible to add additional personnel to maintain the current programs and receive federal matching funds by slightly increasing the pipeline user inspection fee.
The next several articles will continue to highlight the major legislation which has passed during the 2009 legislative session.
As always, please feel free to contact my district office at (214) 370-8305 or my capitol office at (512) 463-0244 if you have any questions regarding state matters. I look forward to hearing from you.
Audelia Road Library
May 19, 2009
To: LH Area HOAs
From: John Gould
Re: Audelia Library May Update #2
Family Literacy Program Successful Event
Mayor’s Summer Reading Program
City Budget Proposed Cuts
Please Form One Line Here
City Budget Preparation
May Book Sale
Parking was a real problem at the library last Sunday afternoon because over 1,275 parents and children participated in the Family Literacy Program. Besides hearing stories, children were taken on an African Safari Hunt through the library, had photos taken with Clifford the Big Red Dog and Lion David Axtell and went home with books. It was a great event for everyone involved and helps to serve as a kick-off to the Mayor’s Summer Reading Program.
Carol Dengle, the children’s librarian, will be visiting all of the schools in the area to promote the Summer Reading Program. Funds from Friends have been used for printing over 1000 registration applications that the children can use to enroll and keep track of the number of books they read. Incentive prizes are given to the children as they read different numbers of books. Friends have also made green pencils available for each one to use that gives our Friends new website address so they can check the website calendar for events throughout the year.
$1000 of Friends funds has made it possible for staff to purchase additional copies of books that students need for required summer reading.
At a suggestion from one of our Friends members, we have bought a standing floor sign for the Circulation Desk, “Please Form One Line Here”. This is to help clarify the checkout flow for patrons. If anyone has other suggestion for enhancing library service, please let me know so we can discuss it with staff.
City Budget Proposals are underway with the Council. Reductions across all departments are under discussion and according to the news media the library system may be impacted as well. With the downturn in the economy and job losses, libraries provide essential services to people of all ages and stages. Cutbacks are being considered in the number of days open, the hours open, and staff available. With the increase demand for library services, please contact our Councilmember Jerry Allen and other city officials and request that they carefully consider the budget impact. To give you some idea of the number of people using the Audelia branch, here are the figures for the last six days: 732,719, 575, 829, 602, and 1275 people.
Next Sunday we will have our monthly Book Sale , 2:00-4:00. Many people have donated books and we hope you will spread the word to those interested in browsing and getting some unbelievable buys.
To: LH Area HOAs
From: John Gould
Re: Audelia Library May Update #2
Family Literacy Program Successful Event
Mayor’s Summer Reading Program
City Budget Proposed Cuts
Please Form One Line Here
City Budget Preparation
May Book Sale
Parking was a real problem at the library last Sunday afternoon because over 1,275 parents and children participated in the Family Literacy Program. Besides hearing stories, children were taken on an African Safari Hunt through the library, had photos taken with Clifford the Big Red Dog and Lion David Axtell and went home with books. It was a great event for everyone involved and helps to serve as a kick-off to the Mayor’s Summer Reading Program.
Carol Dengle, the children’s librarian, will be visiting all of the schools in the area to promote the Summer Reading Program. Funds from Friends have been used for printing over 1000 registration applications that the children can use to enroll and keep track of the number of books they read. Incentive prizes are given to the children as they read different numbers of books. Friends have also made green pencils available for each one to use that gives our Friends new website address so they can check the website calendar for events throughout the year.
$1000 of Friends funds has made it possible for staff to purchase additional copies of books that students need for required summer reading.
At a suggestion from one of our Friends members, we have bought a standing floor sign for the Circulation Desk, “Please Form One Line Here”. This is to help clarify the checkout flow for patrons. If anyone has other suggestion for enhancing library service, please let me know so we can discuss it with staff.
City Budget Proposals are underway with the Council. Reductions across all departments are under discussion and according to the news media the library system may be impacted as well. With the downturn in the economy and job losses, libraries provide essential services to people of all ages and stages. Cutbacks are being considered in the number of days open, the hours open, and staff available. With the increase demand for library services, please contact our Councilmember Jerry Allen and other city officials and request that they carefully consider the budget impact. To give you some idea of the number of people using the Audelia branch, here are the figures for the last six days: 732,719, 575, 829, 602, and 1275 people.
Next Sunday we will have our monthly Book Sale , 2:00-4:00. Many people have donated books and we hope you will spread the word to those interested in browsing and getting some unbelievable buys.
March 31, 2009
From the Desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Part Two: Bills Filed for the 81st Legislative Session
This article is the second part of a three part series detailing the bills I filed for the 81st legislative session. In this article I will discuss some of the public safety and criminal justice bills filed in response to local constituents and at the request of the Dallas District Attorney’s office and Children’s Medical Center in Dallas.
The Booster Seat Bill
In the Fall of 2007, I did an externship at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas to view their emergency and trauma centers. It was then I learned of a dangerous flaw in current state law concerning the use child safety seats, often referred to as booster seats. Car crashes are the leading cause of injury and death to children. In car crashes, children ages 4 to 8 restrained by an adult seat belt are likely to suffer severe head, spinal cord and internal organ injuries. Booster seats reduce the risk of these injuries by 59%. Texas has one of the weakest laws in the country and most children outgrow the current requirement of 36” before their 4th birthday. However, the national standard and what most experts recommend is that children be restrained until they are 4’9” or until their 8th birthday. Texas is one of only six states which does not have this requirement in law.
I filed House Bill (HB) 528 to correct this flaw. There is an educational phase-in period and violations will not be handed out until September 2010. Violations come with a $25 fine that then goes back into a child safety seat program focused on education and providing seats to low income families. This bill was voted out of the Criminal Jurisprudence committee and will hopefully soon make it to the House floor for a vote.
“Eric’s Law”
I am sure many of you heard about an accident at White Rock Lake last year where an uninsured driver with a suspended driver’s license hit three runners after a local marathon. While all three pedestrians spent time in the hospital with serious injuries and are still recovering, the driver was only given two citations and to this day has not paid her fines. It is hard to believe that someone could do that much physical and emotional damage and not pay a cent.
Shortly thereafter I visited with my neighbor who was a victim of the accident. I did some research in the Penal Code, found the misdemeanors to be inadequate, and decided to file a bill that would try and bring some justice to future victims of similar crimes. HB 2012 would make it a third degree felony if a person drove without a valid license, without valid insurance, and caused or was at fault in an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death. If this bill passes, it will be known as “Eric’s Law,” in honor of my neighbor and the two other victims who are still struggling everyday. The proposed legislation is currently in the Transportation Committee waiting to be scheduled for a public hearing.
DNA Legislation
Several months ago, I met with the Dallas District Attorney’s office to discuss possible legislation for the 81st session. In 1996, with the certainty brought about by DNA testing, the legislature removed the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases in which a suspect’s DNA was found. However, many who were victimized before 1996 never saw justice or got closure because the statute of limitations had expired on their rape cases. With the advancements in DNA, it is now possible for police to link certain cold cases from prior to 1996 to DNA already on file. The Dallas Police Department has already been using advanced science and DNA to solve these crimes; however, the DA’s office requested legislation that would note that link in a person’s criminal history.
I filed HB 2932 that will require a new type of notation in pre-existing criminal histories for clear connections between DNA evidence from older, unsolved sexual assaults and current samples on file with the Department of Public Safety. My hope is that this legislation gives both closure and justice to those rape victims whose cold cases can no longer be prosecuted.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
This article is the second part of a three part series detailing the bills I filed for the 81st legislative session. In this article I will discuss some of the public safety and criminal justice bills filed in response to local constituents and at the request of the Dallas District Attorney’s office and Children’s Medical Center in Dallas.
The Booster Seat Bill
In the Fall of 2007, I did an externship at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas to view their emergency and trauma centers. It was then I learned of a dangerous flaw in current state law concerning the use child safety seats, often referred to as booster seats. Car crashes are the leading cause of injury and death to children. In car crashes, children ages 4 to 8 restrained by an adult seat belt are likely to suffer severe head, spinal cord and internal organ injuries. Booster seats reduce the risk of these injuries by 59%. Texas has one of the weakest laws in the country and most children outgrow the current requirement of 36” before their 4th birthday. However, the national standard and what most experts recommend is that children be restrained until they are 4’9” or until their 8th birthday. Texas is one of only six states which does not have this requirement in law.
I filed House Bill (HB) 528 to correct this flaw. There is an educational phase-in period and violations will not be handed out until September 2010. Violations come with a $25 fine that then goes back into a child safety seat program focused on education and providing seats to low income families. This bill was voted out of the Criminal Jurisprudence committee and will hopefully soon make it to the House floor for a vote.
“Eric’s Law”
I am sure many of you heard about an accident at White Rock Lake last year where an uninsured driver with a suspended driver’s license hit three runners after a local marathon. While all three pedestrians spent time in the hospital with serious injuries and are still recovering, the driver was only given two citations and to this day has not paid her fines. It is hard to believe that someone could do that much physical and emotional damage and not pay a cent.
Shortly thereafter I visited with my neighbor who was a victim of the accident. I did some research in the Penal Code, found the misdemeanors to be inadequate, and decided to file a bill that would try and bring some justice to future victims of similar crimes. HB 2012 would make it a third degree felony if a person drove without a valid license, without valid insurance, and caused or was at fault in an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death. If this bill passes, it will be known as “Eric’s Law,” in honor of my neighbor and the two other victims who are still struggling everyday. The proposed legislation is currently in the Transportation Committee waiting to be scheduled for a public hearing.
DNA Legislation
Several months ago, I met with the Dallas District Attorney’s office to discuss possible legislation for the 81st session. In 1996, with the certainty brought about by DNA testing, the legislature removed the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases in which a suspect’s DNA was found. However, many who were victimized before 1996 never saw justice or got closure because the statute of limitations had expired on their rape cases. With the advancements in DNA, it is now possible for police to link certain cold cases from prior to 1996 to DNA already on file. The Dallas Police Department has already been using advanced science and DNA to solve these crimes; however, the DA’s office requested legislation that would note that link in a person’s criminal history.
I filed HB 2932 that will require a new type of notation in pre-existing criminal histories for clear connections between DNA evidence from older, unsolved sexual assaults and current samples on file with the Department of Public Safety. My hope is that this legislation gives both closure and justice to those rape victims whose cold cases can no longer be prosecuted.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
April Audelia Library Update
To: LH Area HOAs
From: John Gould, Audelia Friends President
Re: April Library Update 2009
Audelia Library Friends Website….www.audelilibraryfriends.com
See details below for information about:
Lynn Moore, new branch manager
New Audelia Library Friends Website
Puppetry
Earth Day
April Book Sale
Early Voting
Large Multi-Children’s Event
AARP Driver Safety Program
Basic Computer 1-Hour Course
For more events scheduled, check our website calendar.
Lynn Moore started last week as the new manager at both the Audelia and Skillman Branches. Lynn has 20 years experience in the Dallas Library System with positions at several different branches and at the Central library. She is a graduate of UT and has a Masters of Library Science from North Texas . We are looking forward to working with Lynn . She is replacing John Elfers who retired after 30 years with DPL.
The big news is that we now have an Audelia Friends website up and running thanks to Ed Ferguson. Ed volunteered to serve as our webmaster. When you have time please log on to www.audelialibraryfriends.org. It is easy to navigate to find information in any of four areas: Audelia Branch Library; Audelia Friends; Adult Programs; and Children’s Programs. Scroll down the Home Page to see a monthly calendar of activities that can be viewed chronologically or by individual category preference. If you click on any of the calendar dates more details about the events pop up. The website is available to anyone looking for up-to-date information about the library and activities. Our library is a great community resource for information whether its books, computer technology, AV media, reading or studying areas, job search, or public meetings.
The April Exhibit Case in the lobby features Puppets. An eye-catching display of puppets put together by Sue Willman, a Friends volunteer. This is a prelude to the Sunday, April 26th 1:00 to 4:30 pm program sponsored by the Texas Lone Star Puppetry Club. That afternoon there will be a workshop for children on puppet-making and a puppet show. In May the exhibit case in the lobby will feature patriotic memorabilia. If you have uniforms and photos you think may be of interest, please contact Sue Willman. She can be reached at suewillman@cowtown.net.
On Thursday, April 23rd, 3:30 to 6:00 pm an Earth Day Event for children will be sponsored by LH 4-H Club and Dallas Future Organic Farmers of America . For more details contact Friends volunteer Janice Fowler at jancandoit@hotmail.com.
Our Sunday afternoon Book Sale on March 15th brought in $115.25 and many people went away happy with the books and AVs they were able to purchase at reasonable prices. Children’s books are always in demand. Any good used books may be deposited in the white plastic tub under the Friends exhibit table near the entrance. Our next book sale will be Sunday afternoon. April 19th, from 2:00 to 4:00.
When you check our Friends website calendar, note that Early Voting starts on Monday, April 27th in the Audelia Library auditorium.
A large Multi-Children’s Program is scheduled for Sunday, May 17th with Clifford, the Big Red Dog. There will be a Special Story Time, Crafts, and a lion hunt through the library with “Lyndale the Literary Lion”. TV and print media coverage is planned. Volunteers will be needed to help direct children and their parents to different events. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Carole Dengle, Children’s Librarian, at cdengle@dallaslibrary.org
An AARP Driver Safety Course will be held on Monday, April 20, 12:30 to 4:30. Register with librarian.
A One-Hour Basic Computer Course is scheduled for Saturday, April 18th, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Limited to 4 adults. Register with librarian.
Our Annual Friends Membership mail campaign is still underway. If you didn’t receive a letter or renewal form for some reason, you can find a form either at our Friends Exhibit Table or go to our website. Click on, Audelia Friends, and you’ll find a membership form that can be downloaded and printed out. Your continued support is important.
Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. gould.john@sbcglobal.net.
From: John Gould, Audelia Friends President
Re: April Library Update 2009
Audelia Library Friends Website….www.audelilibraryfriends.com
See details below for information about:
Lynn Moore, new branch manager
New Audelia Library Friends Website
Puppetry
Earth Day
April Book Sale
Early Voting
Large Multi-Children’s Event
AARP Driver Safety Program
Basic Computer 1-Hour Course
For more events scheduled, check our website calendar.
Lynn Moore started last week as the new manager at both the Audelia and Skillman Branches. Lynn has 20 years experience in the Dallas Library System with positions at several different branches and at the Central library. She is a graduate of UT and has a Masters of Library Science from North Texas . We are looking forward to working with Lynn . She is replacing John Elfers who retired after 30 years with DPL.
The big news is that we now have an Audelia Friends website up and running thanks to Ed Ferguson. Ed volunteered to serve as our webmaster. When you have time please log on to www.audelialibraryfriends.org. It is easy to navigate to find information in any of four areas: Audelia Branch Library; Audelia Friends; Adult Programs; and Children’s Programs. Scroll down the Home Page to see a monthly calendar of activities that can be viewed chronologically or by individual category preference. If you click on any of the calendar dates more details about the events pop up. The website is available to anyone looking for up-to-date information about the library and activities. Our library is a great community resource for information whether its books, computer technology, AV media, reading or studying areas, job search, or public meetings.
The April Exhibit Case in the lobby features Puppets. An eye-catching display of puppets put together by Sue Willman, a Friends volunteer. This is a prelude to the Sunday, April 26th 1:00 to 4:30 pm program sponsored by the Texas Lone Star Puppetry Club. That afternoon there will be a workshop for children on puppet-making and a puppet show. In May the exhibit case in the lobby will feature patriotic memorabilia. If you have uniforms and photos you think may be of interest, please contact Sue Willman. She can be reached at suewillman@cowtown.net.
On Thursday, April 23rd, 3:30 to 6:00 pm an Earth Day Event for children will be sponsored by LH 4-H Club and Dallas Future Organic Farmers of America . For more details contact Friends volunteer Janice Fowler at jancandoit@hotmail.com.
Our Sunday afternoon Book Sale on March 15th brought in $115.25 and many people went away happy with the books and AVs they were able to purchase at reasonable prices. Children’s books are always in demand. Any good used books may be deposited in the white plastic tub under the Friends exhibit table near the entrance. Our next book sale will be Sunday afternoon. April 19th, from 2:00 to 4:00.
When you check our Friends website calendar, note that Early Voting starts on Monday, April 27th in the Audelia Library auditorium.
A large Multi-Children’s Program is scheduled for Sunday, May 17th with Clifford, the Big Red Dog. There will be a Special Story Time, Crafts, and a lion hunt through the library with “Lyndale the Literary Lion”. TV and print media coverage is planned. Volunteers will be needed to help direct children and their parents to different events. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Carole Dengle, Children’s Librarian, at cdengle@dallaslibrary.org
An AARP Driver Safety Course will be held on Monday, April 20, 12:30 to 4:30. Register with librarian.
A One-Hour Basic Computer Course is scheduled for Saturday, April 18th, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Limited to 4 adults. Register with librarian.
Our Annual Friends Membership mail campaign is still underway. If you didn’t receive a letter or renewal form for some reason, you can find a form either at our Friends Exhibit Table or go to our website. Click on, Audelia Friends, and you’ll find a membership form that can be downloaded and printed out. Your continued support is important.
Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. gould.john@sbcglobal.net.
March 20, 2009
Come to Calloway's Perennial Swap - Make your list today!
Dear Homeowners Association,
A Perennial Swap is planned Saturday April 4th at select Calloway’s Nursery locations.
Our Perennial Swap promotion will allow customers to exchange plants and meet local gardeners in the safety of a Calloway’s location. Calloway’s Nursery is excited to host the Perennial Swap on April 4th in South Arlington and Lewisville !
Here’s how it works:
1) Visit the Perennial Swap blog.
2) List what you have and what you want.
3) Arrange to meet and swap on April 4th (locations listed below).
4) Save money, go home, plant and enjoy!
Visit Perennial Swap today,
and start your FREE plant shopping list!
Mark your calendar:
Calloway’s
Perennial Plant Swap
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Noon to 2 p.m. at
April 4th swaps take place at the following locations:
· South Arlington: Calloway’s - 4940 S. Cooper, Arlington , TX 76017 817-465-2838
· Lewisville - Calloway’s: 423 East FM 3040, Lewisville , TX 75067 972-315-3133
A Perennial Swap is planned Saturday April 4th at select Calloway’s Nursery locations.
Our Perennial Swap promotion will allow customers to exchange plants and meet local gardeners in the safety of a Calloway’s location. Calloway’s Nursery is excited to host the Perennial Swap on April 4th in South Arlington and Lewisville !
Here’s how it works:
1) Visit the Perennial Swap blog.
2) List what you have and what you want.
3) Arrange to meet and swap on April 4th (locations listed below).
4) Save money, go home, plant and enjoy!
Visit Perennial Swap today,
and start your FREE plant shopping list!
Mark your calendar:
Calloway’s
Perennial Plant Swap
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Noon to 2 p.m. at
April 4th swaps take place at the following locations:
· South Arlington: Calloway’s - 4940 S. Cooper, Arlington , TX 76017 817-465-2838
· Lewisville - Calloway’s: 423 East FM 3040, Lewisville , TX 75067 972-315-3133
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Bills Filed for the 81st Legislative Session
The deadline to file most bills in both the House and the Senate was this past Friday the 13th, the 60th day of the legislative session. Over 600 bills were filed on the final day as legislators struggled to complete their legislative agenda, hoping that something was not forgotten or overlooked. Over 4,600 bills were filed in the House and over 2,400 were filed in the Senate.
I filed six bills on the last day and thirty-eight in total. Some of the bills I filed were ideas from teachers’ groups, law enforcement, our military personnel and veterans, and others. However, the bulk of the bills came directly from conversations with my constituents over the past couple of years.
In the next few articles, I would like to talk about some of the bills I filed and why I think they would benefit this district if passed into law.
Insurance Reform
Insurance reform is by far one of the biggest issues and concerns brought to my attention since I have been in office, so I filed several bills that seek to address this issue.
Our current system in the insurance market, known as “file and use” allows companies to immediately implement a new rate once it is filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. House Bill (HB) 1609 would require insurance companies to submit their rates for prior approval to the Insurance Commissioner if they have a Complaint Index that is 50% higher than the statewide average. The Texas Department of Insurance compiles a Complaint Index that allows consumers to easily compare the ratio of justified consumer complaints against particular insurance companies. This bill would ensure that companies with a track record of justified complaints are scrutinized more closely before they raise rates again on consumers.
Additionally, I have filed HB 4563 which would mandate that automobile insurance companies cannot use the occupation or educational level of a person insured as a factor in underwriting or rating their coverage. Currently, auto insurance companies divide consumers into several categories and subcategories, including occupation and education, in order to determine their rate. There is no limit on the number of sub categories a person can fit into, and therefore the shared risk of driving (the point of insurance) is negated. Furthermore, companies do not give consumers information on which subcategories they fit into which makes it difficult for consumers to try and lower their rates.
In looking at the bigger picture and where ultimately most of the decisions and power lie, I am a joint-author of HB 173 which would make the Insurance Commissioner an elected position and subject to the voters of Texas. We already elect the Agriculture Commissioner and the Railroad Commissioner among others, yet many of the decisions made daily by the Insurance Commissioner affect Texans to greater degree. I believe we should have the right to hold the commissioner accountable to ensure a fair insurance marketplace and to protect consumers.
Finally, I have filed HB 2010 which would require insurance companies to adequately notify consumers of changes in their policy. My hope is that these bills among others filed by my colleagues in the House and friends in the Senate will protect consumers and protect Texans during these tough economic times. While Texans currently pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country, we cannot afford for this to continue.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
The deadline to file most bills in both the House and the Senate was this past Friday the 13th, the 60th day of the legislative session. Over 600 bills were filed on the final day as legislators struggled to complete their legislative agenda, hoping that something was not forgotten or overlooked. Over 4,600 bills were filed in the House and over 2,400 were filed in the Senate.
I filed six bills on the last day and thirty-eight in total. Some of the bills I filed were ideas from teachers’ groups, law enforcement, our military personnel and veterans, and others. However, the bulk of the bills came directly from conversations with my constituents over the past couple of years.
In the next few articles, I would like to talk about some of the bills I filed and why I think they would benefit this district if passed into law.
Insurance Reform
Insurance reform is by far one of the biggest issues and concerns brought to my attention since I have been in office, so I filed several bills that seek to address this issue.
Our current system in the insurance market, known as “file and use” allows companies to immediately implement a new rate once it is filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. House Bill (HB) 1609 would require insurance companies to submit their rates for prior approval to the Insurance Commissioner if they have a Complaint Index that is 50% higher than the statewide average. The Texas Department of Insurance compiles a Complaint Index that allows consumers to easily compare the ratio of justified consumer complaints against particular insurance companies. This bill would ensure that companies with a track record of justified complaints are scrutinized more closely before they raise rates again on consumers.
Additionally, I have filed HB 4563 which would mandate that automobile insurance companies cannot use the occupation or educational level of a person insured as a factor in underwriting or rating their coverage. Currently, auto insurance companies divide consumers into several categories and subcategories, including occupation and education, in order to determine their rate. There is no limit on the number of sub categories a person can fit into, and therefore the shared risk of driving (the point of insurance) is negated. Furthermore, companies do not give consumers information on which subcategories they fit into which makes it difficult for consumers to try and lower their rates.
In looking at the bigger picture and where ultimately most of the decisions and power lie, I am a joint-author of HB 173 which would make the Insurance Commissioner an elected position and subject to the voters of Texas. We already elect the Agriculture Commissioner and the Railroad Commissioner among others, yet many of the decisions made daily by the Insurance Commissioner affect Texans to greater degree. I believe we should have the right to hold the commissioner accountable to ensure a fair insurance marketplace and to protect consumers.
Finally, I have filed HB 2010 which would require insurance companies to adequately notify consumers of changes in their policy. My hope is that these bills among others filed by my colleagues in the House and friends in the Senate will protect consumers and protect Texans during these tough economic times. While Texans currently pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country, we cannot afford for this to continue.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught
Bills Filed for the 81st Legislative Session
The deadline to file most bills in both the House and the Senate was this past Friday the 13th, the 60th day of the legislative session. Over 600 bills were filed on the final day as legislators struggled to complete their legislative agenda, hoping that something was not forgotten or overlooked. Over 4,600 bills were filed in the House and over 2,400 were filed in the Senate.
I filed six bills on the last day and thirty-eight in total. Some of the bills I filed were ideas from teachers’ groups, law enforcement, our military personnel and veterans, and others. However, the bulk of the bills came directly from conversations with my constituents over the past couple of years.
In the next few articles, I would like to talk about some of the bills I filed and why I think they would benefit this district if passed into law.
Insurance Reform
Insurance reform is by far one of the biggest issues and concerns brought to my attention since I have been in office, so I filed several bills that seek to address this issue.
Our current system in the insurance market, known as “file and use” allows companies to immediately implement a new rate once it is filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. House Bill (HB) 1609 would require insurance companies to submit their rates for prior approval to the Insurance Commissioner if they have a Complaint Index that is 50% higher than the statewide average. The Texas Department of Insurance compiles a Complaint Index that allows consumers to easily compare the ratio of justified consumer complaints against particular insurance companies. This bill would ensure that companies with a track record of justified complaints are scrutinized more closely before they raise rates again on consumers.
Additionally, I have filed HB 4563 which would mandate that automobile insurance companies cannot use the occupation or educational level of a person insured as a factor in underwriting or rating their coverage. Currently, auto insurance companies divide consumers into several categories and subcategories, including occupation and education, in order to determine their rate. There is no limit on the number of sub categories a person can fit into, and therefore the shared risk of driving (the point of insurance) is negated. Furthermore, companies do not give consumers information on which subcategories they fit into which makes it difficult for consumers to try and lower their rates.
In looking at the bigger picture and where ultimately most of the decisions and power lie, I am a joint-author of HB 173 which would make the Insurance Commissioner an elected position and subject to the voters of Texas. We already elect the Agriculture Commissioner and the Railroad Commissioner among others, yet many of the decisions made daily by the Insurance Commissioner affect Texans to greater degree. I believe we should have the right to hold the commissioner accountable to ensure a fair insurance marketplace and to protect consumers.
Finally, I have filed HB 2010 which would require insurance companies to adequately notify consumers of changes in their policy. My hope is that these bills among others filed by my colleagues in the House and friends in the Senate will protect consumers and protect Texans during these tough economic times. While Texans currently pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country, we cannot afford for this to continue.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
The deadline to file most bills in both the House and the Senate was this past Friday the 13th, the 60th day of the legislative session. Over 600 bills were filed on the final day as legislators struggled to complete their legislative agenda, hoping that something was not forgotten or overlooked. Over 4,600 bills were filed in the House and over 2,400 were filed in the Senate.
I filed six bills on the last day and thirty-eight in total. Some of the bills I filed were ideas from teachers’ groups, law enforcement, our military personnel and veterans, and others. However, the bulk of the bills came directly from conversations with my constituents over the past couple of years.
In the next few articles, I would like to talk about some of the bills I filed and why I think they would benefit this district if passed into law.
Insurance Reform
Insurance reform is by far one of the biggest issues and concerns brought to my attention since I have been in office, so I filed several bills that seek to address this issue.
Our current system in the insurance market, known as “file and use” allows companies to immediately implement a new rate once it is filed with the Texas Department of Insurance. House Bill (HB) 1609 would require insurance companies to submit their rates for prior approval to the Insurance Commissioner if they have a Complaint Index that is 50% higher than the statewide average. The Texas Department of Insurance compiles a Complaint Index that allows consumers to easily compare the ratio of justified consumer complaints against particular insurance companies. This bill would ensure that companies with a track record of justified complaints are scrutinized more closely before they raise rates again on consumers.
Additionally, I have filed HB 4563 which would mandate that automobile insurance companies cannot use the occupation or educational level of a person insured as a factor in underwriting or rating their coverage. Currently, auto insurance companies divide consumers into several categories and subcategories, including occupation and education, in order to determine their rate. There is no limit on the number of sub categories a person can fit into, and therefore the shared risk of driving (the point of insurance) is negated. Furthermore, companies do not give consumers information on which subcategories they fit into which makes it difficult for consumers to try and lower their rates.
In looking at the bigger picture and where ultimately most of the decisions and power lie, I am a joint-author of HB 173 which would make the Insurance Commissioner an elected position and subject to the voters of Texas. We already elect the Agriculture Commissioner and the Railroad Commissioner among others, yet many of the decisions made daily by the Insurance Commissioner affect Texans to greater degree. I believe we should have the right to hold the commissioner accountable to ensure a fair insurance marketplace and to protect consumers.
Finally, I have filed HB 2010 which would require insurance companies to adequately notify consumers of changes in their policy. My hope is that these bills among others filed by my colleagues in the House and friends in the Senate will protect consumers and protect Texans during these tough economic times. While Texans currently pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country, we cannot afford for this to continue.
I welcome your thoughts and ideas regarding the bills I have filed for the 81st legislative session. Keep in mind that these are the bills as introduced and that details are subject to change as part of the legislative process. Please email my office at District107.Vaught@house.state.tx.us with the subject line 81st Legislative Session Bills.
As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding these or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.
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