[NRC General] Kurt Wall - Page 1 (HS) NEWS> 09-02-06 -(Importance 4)
National RFid Center General Newsletter
nrcgeneral at nationalrfid.com
Fri Sep 1 13:31:56 CDT 2006
A Special Thanks to Ron Dorman
for sending this out to everyone---Thanks
rwd at csi1st.com
"National RFID Center" -"Quantum Leap For Everyone Communication Group
(((( FREE )))) "It is here"
Kurt Wall - Page 1 (HS) NEWS> 09-02-06 -
(Importance 4)
The Accelerator, and Friends for Our Intellectual Human Capital - Forum
BECOME a Team Member :::: Information and Communication Technology Team
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KurtWall at USAact.com
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My friends at: Sponsorship of the Nationalrfid.goingon.com, The UK Centre for Homeland Security,ISSEE, International Cultural Calendar, TiECon Dallas 2006, Nanaotx06, NanoExpress, Sponsors of (Tech-Ten) Worlds Best Technologies Korea, Sponsors of Smart Buildings and Smart Inland Ports, Sponsors of National RFID Swat Teams, Sponsor of GT's Justice and Public Safety, GDC Procurement Lunch, Government Technology's Executive News (GTEN), Society for Technical Communication (STC) Lone Star Community (LSC), NASCO-Corridor, (TETF) Texas Emerging Technology Fund, UT Southwestern Medical Center A. W. Harris Faculty-Alumni Center, MrRFID at rfidsb.com, North Dallas Chamber of Commerce, Eastfield College, (NRC), (UNT) University of North Texas, TCU, I.T., TMAC Conference, Success North Dallas, NTEC-Inc/Medical, Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce, The Chamber Report, GDC International Business Development, NTGTS and CTC programs, University Venture Forum, IEEE-CVT Meeting, IEEE Dallas Section Meeting, MIT Enterprise Forum, GT's Government Security News, N-TEC Qtrly Meeting, MTBC Events, Department of Energy Events, NTGTS, (NRC) National RFID Center, SMU COX Southwest Venture Forum, Rice University Alliance Events, ATC (Austin Technology Council), Dallas Forum for BioMedical Technology, Nanotechnology Colloquium, BIODFW Breakfast, Dallas Federal Reserve Events, (BABC) The British American Business Council of North Texas, Richardson Chamber Events, SMU Entrepreneurship Conference, (WBTC) Worlds Best Technologies Convention, National Labs Conference, ASEE Meeting, RFID-World Event, MedTech North Texas, Tech Club's of Dallas, EWFI Events (Womens Events), GTC Texas Report, (HTC) Houston Tech Champs, IMC D/FW Management Consultants Forum, Texas Alliance for NanoHealth, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), MANCEF - Micro And Nanotechnology Commercialization Education Foundation, The
SMU Dallas 100 Awards, EPCglobal US Conference
Homeland Security Innovations of New Ideas = (USAact) Accelerator for Convergent Technologies = Your FREE Technology News Guide and Meeting in Texas and USA opportunities...
For subscription or un-subscription information, please go to the end for instructions.
Page 1 (HS) NEWS - Homeland Security / Dallas - Fort Worth Success Stories / Idea of the Week / Technology Swat Teams / Smart Inland Ports / Smart Buildings
Page 2: (EVENTS) & (LOCAL) - Categorized according to Technology Descriptors shown below and by geography
Texas // Dallas, Ft Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Waco, Austin
Page 3 and 4 (RFID) & (OUTSIDE EVENTS) - RFID /// Universities and City Council Meetings and others Meetings
RFId and Nano Technologies
Converging Technology and Smart Buildings / Smart Inland Ports
Converging Technology and Transportation and Mobility
Converging Technology and Economic Development
Converging Technology and Real Estate Development with Financing
=====================================================
Complementary Tickets for Events, are Welcome in reciprocation,
for sending out this news to your event - Thank s
=====================================================
PLANNING A BUSINESS CONVENTION, SEMINAR, OTHER EVENT?
Please send Information Posting to Kurt Wall - KurtWall at USAact.com
Office: 817-272-0717
Cell: 469-360-9333
(((( KurtWall at NationalRFid.com )))))
(((( KurtWall at USAact.com ))))
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LEARN, STAY CURRENT, EXCHANGE IDEAS, SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE
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Intellectual Human Capital (IHC)
Our Country's Economic Resource - for the Future
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_________ Thanks to our SPONSORS _____
====================================================
1 "National RFID Center" -"Quantum Leap For Everyone Communication Group
(((( FREE )))) "It is here"
2 ** The North Texas Electronic Crimes Task Force -
September 27 Event
3 GT's Homeland Report 06.08.29
4 Government Technology Executive News 06.08.31
5 Texas Insider
6 NanoTX '06 - Call for Volunteers - John Barnes / Kurt Wall / Gail
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"National RFID Center" -"Quantum Leap For Everyone Communication Group
(((( FREE )))) "It is here"
(
The National RFid Center is the industries place for RFid News, references, collaboration and communications on related convergent technology,
Welcome Friends of the National Center for RFID!
I am proud to announce the Center and its loyal subscribers are taking a quantum leap! We are evolving from our humble beginnings with a web site and new letter to a fully functional collaborative network. With the help of my team and input from all of you we are providing you a portal to the world of RFID, including its applications, its leaders, news, events , forums, Blogs, developers and much more over time.
The industry as been maturing and is poised for dramatic growth. We aim to provide you the best information to help chart your course.
Our strength is found in all of you, the community. The portal is conceived to allow you a stronger voice in our industry, to brand your value, your companies, your products and services. We have integrated services like CRM with Salesforce.com CRM, to leading services like Skype's VoIP/chat and Newsgator's RSS reader and links to services like Linkedin. The value you get from this portal builds on NRFid's roots. It is as powerful a business tool as you choose to make it.Going forward you will see opportunities to sponsor pages, blogs, events, webinars, calendars and much more. You will be able to message each other and within groups you set up. Modules such as ecommerce will be available soon allowing you to go beyond collaboration to value added services directly impacting your top lines.
It is our goal to help you realize returns on your hard work and investments. Please invite your peers, your associates and your friends. Together we can shape our industry!
You have been issued a prearranged account with a randomly selected password.
Login: guy.klarfeld at bloomingdales.com
Password: 9Xe8RAaxc2
URL: http://nationalrfidaccel.goingon.com/
Please fill in your profiles on the site when you get your invitations. Once you set yourself up, start to experience the benefits of your expanded membership. As in the past there is no cost for the basic membership but expect that as the utility of this site becomes understood we will add premium services that build upon your basic membership. If you have questions please contact us through the site.
Use the collaboration features to communicate with us and each other and together we will accelerate the market we all live and work within.
We look forward to seeing and hearing from all of you very soon!
Regards
Kurt
P.S. And you thought I was just a pretty face !
National RFID Center 202
East Border,
Suite 105 UTA-ATIBuilding
Arlington, TX 76010
NationalRFid.com &
http://nationalrfidaccel.goingon.com/
)
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** The North Texas Electronic Crimes Task Force -
September 27 Event
The North Texas Electronic Crimes Task Force
Invites you to its next quarterly meeting, hosted with N-TEC partners:
Topic: Security Incidents, Planning and Response
Date: September 27th, 2006
Time: 8:00am - 12:00 noon
Location: Automation & Robotics Research Institute (ARRI)
The University of Texas at Arlington
7300 Jack Newell Blvd. S.
Fort Worth, TX 76118
Featuring : Doug Landoll - Enpointe Technologies
General Manager Information Security,CISSP, CISA, MBA
Five years at the National Security Agency leading teams in the security evaluation of IT systems at the Department of Defense, NATO, CIA
Director of Security Evaluations at one of the first commercial common criteria laboratories to be endorsed by NSA/NIST.
Co- developer and author of the Systems Security Engineering -Capability Maturity Model (SSE_CMM) project
Developed curriculum and served as lead educator for computer security courses at NSA's National Cryptologic School
Author of "The Security Risk Assessment Handbook"
Please RSVP to: Robert Sheffield, ATSAIC
Dallas Field Office
U.S. Secret Service
972-868-3106 or
robert.sheffield at usss.dhs.gov
Hosted by the University of Texas at Arlington and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce
in association with National RFID Center and Accelerator for Convergent Technologies.
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----- Original Message -----
From: Homeland Report
To: KurtWall at USAact.com
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 1:14 AM
Subject: GT's Homeland Report 06.08.29
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Complimentary Internet Seminar: Video Mobility Solutions for Law Enforcement
September 7th, 2006
Video Mobility Solutions take law enforcement and emergency response to a new level of operational effectiveness using real-time security and surveillance video and data. The Harris County Sheriff's Department will present their proof-of-concept mobile video program which tested mobile applications from several vendors. Hear the valuable lessons they learned and how they now plan to proceed as a result.
Free Registration!
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29 August 2006
News
Moving Target?
Requirements for the National Incident Management System -- which unifies federal, state and local lines of government for incident response -- continuously evolve, making them tough for some officials to meet.
Arizona Department of Transportation's Intelligent Transportation System Project
Project will greatly enhance the public safety infrastructure in Arizona.
Code Orange Threat Level for US Flights
In other sectors the threat level remains at Code Yellow, or Elevated.
Successful Digital Messaging System in Mississippi Test
System demonstrated live interoperability by delivering text messages via FM radio signals.
Executives Lack Confidence in Information Availability Preparedness
Percentage of senior executive respondents giving low grade ratings is increasing, compared to similar surveys from the last two years.
Study Reveals Most Network Attacks Used Stolen IDs, Passwords
DOJ data shows cost to individual organizations up to $10 million per occurrence.
Expanded Online Services for Michigan
"I want the Department of State to use the latest, most innovative technology available to make dealing with the state as convenient and timely as possible." -- Secretary Land.
State Lawmakers Address Technology Issues
Urge repeal of the REAL ID Act if Congress does not provide full funding by December 31, 2007.
U.S., Canada Partner with Trade Community to Coordinate Emergency Response
Working through the exercise scenarios helped fine-tune the joint response plans between the two countries.
Digital Communities Special Event Recording
The Common-Sense Deployment Strategies for Municipal Wireless featuring Corpus Christi, Texas.
viewpoints
Global Locals
With 78 million baby boomers turning 60 this year, there is probably room for more than one center to bring science and technology to bear on our acute sense of denial about old age.
feature
Blind But No Longer Fragmented
New protocols and technologies help CIOs accomplish integrated justice.
event highlights
Best of Texas Award Applications Open for 2006
Texas Education Agency Staff accept last year's "Best Application Serving the Public" for eGrants.
e.Republic Inc. 100 Blue Ravine Road, Folsom, CA 95630
For information or assistance with the Homeland Report, contact Kimberly Asborno.
For more information on these and other homeland security developments, visit http://www.centerdigitalgov.com/ or http://www.govtech.net/.
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----- Original Message -----
From: GTEN
To: KurtWall at USAact.com
Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2006 4:33 AM
Subject: Government Technology Executive News 06.08.31
Government Technology's Executive News (GTEN), provides additional state,
local, national and world news on best practices and emerging trends in the
application of technology that aren't available in your monthly issue.
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Thursday August 31, 2006
Top State and Local Government Web Portals and Applications Win Awards
Michigan, Seattle and Seminole County, Fla., take top honors.
Nearly 60 Percent of Tech Workers Looking for New Jobs, Says Survey
Period of growth spurs search for higher pay, advancement.
San Francisco Begins Mandarin-Language Immersion Program
Starr King Elementary received funds as one of the nation's first public schools to offer dual education in Mandarin.
NATOA Announces the 2006 Government Programming Award Winners
Tacoma, Wash.; Castle Rock, Colo.; DeKalb County, Ga.; Southland, Mich.; Tucson, Ariz.; "light up the night."
2006 URISA Exemplary Systems in Government Awards Announced
Exemplary Systems in Government (ESIG) Awards recognize exceptional achievements in the application of information technology that have improved the delivery and quality of government services.
Indiana Announces Settlement of Election Machine Enforcement Hearing
Vendor to contribute funds to state program to update election laws and assist and train counties in the use and maintenance of election equipment.
Wednesday August 30, 2006
Stockholm Traffic Control System Concludes Test
Payment is via a number of channels including by direct debit triggered by the recognition of an electronic tag that is loaned to drivers.
Texas Celebrates Top Ranking in E-Government Study
"The TexasOnline portal site has a simple, effective navigation system and an exhaustive list of over 500 online services contained within the state's Web sites -- the most of all sites assessed in this study."
NYPD Tackles Crime in Real Time
The Real Time Crime Center equips investigators with valuable crime-solving information even before they reach the crime scene.
NYC's New Cutting Edge DNA Laboratory Gets Power Protection
"This is a real-world example of ''CSI-New York'' in action, with its state-of-the-art laboratories rivaling those seen in the television series."
Tuesday August 29, 2006
Report Finds Improvements in New Voting Technology
"We should be encouraging all election officials to reject full-face ballot requirements and adopt technology that is user friendly for all voters."
Executives Lack Confidence in Information Availability Preparedness
Percentage of senior executive respondents giving low grade ratings is increasing, compared to similar surveys from the last two years.
Raising the Bar on IT and Economic Development
"Value is created when knowledge moves from origin to the point of highest need."
Study Reveals Most Network Attacks Used Stolen IDs, Passwords
DOJ data shows cost to individual organizations up to $10 million per occurrence.
Atlantic Hurricane Area Residents More Prepared for Natural Disaster, but Many Lack Plans to Communicate
Communications tools include key contact phone numbers, car charger for wireless phone.
Monday August 28, 2006
Telecom and Broadband Survey Conducted in Europe
Of those households that have only narrowband Internet connections, 40 percent do not wish to upgrade.
European Commission calls on Member States to Contribute to the European Digital Library
"Our aim is to arrive at a real European digital library, a multilingual access point to Europe's digital cultural resources."
Iowa's Overseas Service Members Now Have More Access to Voting
"They're facing dangers everyday to fight for and preserve democracy."
Friday August 25, 2006
NASCIO Releases Issue Brief on Broadband-Based E-Government
"The brief highlights the continued evolution of the broadband environment and the need for states to understand both the enhanced public service opportunities and citizen expectations of high-speed Internet access."
State Lawmakers Address Technology Issues
Urge repeal of the REAL ID Act if Congress does not provide full funding by December 31, 2007.
APCO Releases Training Standards for Communications Supervisors
"Will assist the public safety communications community in increasing the high degree of professionalism sought within our public safety agencies."
Governor Kaine Appoints Emergency Medical Services Chief Bruce Edwards to State Advisory Board
Tidewater Emergency Medical Services Council provides coordination and support for 46 EMS agencies.
New Ohio Child Welfare Computer System Goes Online in Pilot County
"Having access to information across county lines will help local and state administrators make informed decisions about the services provided to children and families."
Digital Communities Special Event Recording
The Common-Sense Deployment Strategies for Municipal Wireless featuring Corpus Christi, Texas.
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viewpoints
Global Locals
With 78 million baby boomers turning 60 this year, there is probably room for more than one center to bring science and technology to bear on our acute sense of denial about old age.
feature
Blind But No Longer Fragmented
New protocols and technologies help CIOs accomplish integrated justice.
event highlights
Best of Texas Award Applications Open for 2006
Texas Education Agency Staff accept last year's "Best Application Serving the Public" for eGrants.
contract news
Vail, Colo. Awards Contract for Municipal Wi-Fi Network
Arizona Awards Wireless Contract
Texas Department of Agriculture Deploys MicroStrategy for Enterprise-wide Business Intelligence
MAXIMUS Announces $33 Million in Child Support Contracts With Texas, Illinois and Iowa
e.Republic Inc. 100 Blue Ravine Road, Folsom, CA 95630
News items may be sent to Wayne Hanson. Please include your telephone number for verification.
)
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5
Texas Insider
TBPC proposes change in functions
Agency would keep facilities responsibility, transfer procurements to DIR
The Texas Building and Procurement Commission is proposing to the state legislature that the agency's procurement functions be transferred to the Department of Information Resources (DIR). The proposal was initially discussed by TBPC commissioners and Executive Director Edward Johnson (pictured below) at a strategic planning session held in July. It has since been published as part of TBPC's Strategic Plan.
The TBPC proposal notes that analysis of both TBPC and DIR operations indicates a duplication of effort by the agencies regarding purchasing, contracting and vendor management. That analysis led TBPC officials to propose transferring TBPC procurement functions to DIR and renaming DIR the "Department of Procurement and Information Resources." TBPC, with its remaining functions, would be renamed the "Facilities Commission" to reflect its new, more limited role of dealing strictly with facilities.
TBPC officials indicate that merging of the two agencies' procurement functions will "clearly deliver standardization of procurement and contract practices" and would lead to the delivery of "quality statewide procurement services."
The proposal justifies the creation of a Facilities Commission by pointing out that last year, TBPC managed 25 million square feet of leased and owned facilities for 50,000 state employees at a cost of $193 million. The agency also manages some construction for other agencies. "Such expenditures suggest that these activities justify being attended by a clearly focused and identifiable group," reads the report. Also noted is this will allow for appointment of a commission more heavily composed of members experienced in facilities issues to oversee the agency's operations. Among the activities cited in the proposal that would fall under the jurisdiction of the new Facilities Commission are: space management, leasing and acquisition; construction and its related activities; operations, both at the administrative and technical level; and maintenance, both custodial and technical level.
The proposal also recommends abolishing the Office of Vehicle Fleet Management, limiting its functions to providing fleet support services only and moving that function into the newly-created Depart of Procurement and Information Services.
McTeer to retire from Texas A&M
Texas A&M University System Chancellor Robert D. McTeer will close the books on his more than three and a half decades of public service with his announcement this week that he plans to retire by the end of the year. McTeer has served as chancellor of the TAMU System for the past two years. Prior to his association with the system, McTeer served in a number of leadership positions with the Federal Reserve System, most recently as president and CEO of the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank. McTeer said he plans to move to Dallas and explore going on the speakers circuit.
John D. White, chairman of the TAMU System Board of Regents, said McTeer demonstrated a thoughtful, professional approach in his tenure as chancellor, while always reflecting the best interests of the Texas A&M System. U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison praised McTeer for improving the states education system through key centers of excellence including the National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center, food safety and water conservation research.
The TAMU System's Board of Regents will discuss choosing McTeer's successor at its Sept. 21-22 meeting in College Station.
Texas schools awarded emergency response grants
Eight Texas school districts and one Regional Education Service Center are among 74 recipients in 26 states that will share more than $23 million in emergency response grant funds from the U.S. Department of Education. The grants are designed to help the schools enhance and fortify their emergency response and crisis management plans. Funds can be used to purchase necessary equipment, for training employees and students on how to respond to disasters, to communicate emergency plans throughout the community and to coordinate with local agencies.
The largest award in Texas was $656,780 that went to the Region 18 Education Service Center in Midland. The ESC will serve as administrator for the funds, which will be allocated to schools along the I-20 corridor - Midland, Big Spring, Monahans, Pecos, Coahoma and Stanton. Some of those funds will be used to set up a Web-based network to link school districts and first responders. The Houston ISD was recipient of the second largest grant in the state - $495,524 - and will use the funds to rework its emergency-preparedness plan, to train district employees, students and parents and to purchase a mobile command post capable of being moved to emergency sites when necessary.
Other recipients of the grants and the amount received include:
a.. Alvarado Independent School District - $99,700
b.. Aransas County Independent School District - $99,812
c.. Burleson Independent School District - $94,608
d.. Castleberry Independent School District - $100,400
e.. Conroe Independent School District - $310,435
f.. Karnes City Independent School District - $99,537
UT names top five CIO candidates
Five candidates are being interviewed for the Chief Information Officer slot open at the University of Texas at Austin. They include: Spencer Stuart, CIO at the University of Hawaii; Viji Murali, vice president of information technology and CIO at Western Michigan University; Brian Roberts, professor of government and economics and associate dean for research and instructional support for the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Texas at Austin; Sally Jackson, vice president, learning and information technologies and CIO, University of Arizona; and Stephen Cawley, associate vice president and CIO, University of Minnesota.
Two of the candidates were interviewed in open meetings this week in Austin, while the remaining three are expected to be interviewed in the coming weeks. When chosen, the new CIO will replace Daniel Updegrove, who served as vice president for information technology at UT since 2001 before announcing in June that he would leave that post to focus on advanced network services for research and education.
Toll road studied for Metroplex area
A possible connection to the Trans-Texas Corridor-35 project is being studied for the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area, with a private company offering to build the southern part of Loop 9 as a toll road.
Gov. Rick Perry this week announced that officials of Cintra-Zachry have studied traffic patterns in this portion of South Dallas and determined that construction of a southern connector route is now warranted. Perry said the southern loop could "relieve congestion, improve air quality, increase highway safety and provide safer routes for hazardous cargo." He touted the public-private sector partnership as a quicker way to build roadways in the state, instead of depending on the federal or state share of gas tax revenues to finance such projects.
The southern loop, said the governor, will impact traffic and growth in the whole region. "An outer loop will not only create jobs and growth in the southern part of the Metroplex, it can help solve the Tower 55 freight rail problem in Tarrant County while relieving the burden of extraordinary growth already placed on the Northern side," said Perry.
Birx new vice chancellor for UH System
Donald L. Birx, former interim vice provost/president for research at New Mexico State University, has been named vice chancellor for the University of Houston System and vice president for research for the University of Houston. Birx will begin his association with UH this month.
Birx joined NMSU in 1996 as director of the Physical Science Lab, a 500-person, university-based applied research and development organization. He holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Dayton, an M.B.A in finance and M.S. in biophysics from Miami of Ohio and a B.S. in engineering physics from the University of California at Berkeley. He also spent nearly 20 years at Systems Research Laboratories, Inc., in Ohio, working his way up to vice president and team leader of technology and new ventures.
Four named to Women's Hall of Fame
Four outstanding Texas women who have backgrounds in education, the arts, leadership and health and social sciences have been named by Gov. Rick Perry as this year's inductees into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame. The biennial awards event was created by the Governor's Commission for Women in 1984 to honor outstanding Texas women. Since then, 122 recipients have been enshrined in the Texas Women's Hall of Fame exhibit on the Texas Woman's University campus. This year's honorees include Texas Education Commissioner Dr. Shirley Neeley of Austin, Amanda Dunbar of Allen, Kathy Foster of Houston and Dr. Ellen Vitetta of Dallas. The induction ceremony for the 2006 recipients will be Oct. 11.
Neeley was named education commissioner in 2004, and has a 35-year career in public education. A former elementary school teacher, she later served as assistant principal, principal and superintendent of the Galena Park ISD. As education commissioner, she heads up the Texas Education Agency that oversees 1,037 school districts and 200 charter schools.
Dunbar, at 23, is already a respected Dallas art gallery owner and is the youngest ever Hall of Fame recipient. She began her painting career at age 13 and by age 17 began philanthropic work with the creation of her "Angel Alliance" painting that led to the formation of a charitable organization that allows young people to express themselves through art. She is a member of a variety of other social and charitable organizations.
Foster is co-founder and director of Casa de Esperanza de los Nios. She gave up a teaching career to begin working with the mentally ill and homeless in Houston. Casa de Esperanza de los Nios now also addresses the needs of HIV positive children, has a staff of 45 and more than 350 volunteers.
Vitetta is a professor of microbiology and director of the Cancer Immunology Center at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. She is a world-renowned immunologist, and has pioneered the development of immunotoxins for treatment of disease, particularly lymphoma, breast cancer and AIDS. She was the first biomedical scientist from Texas ever elected to the National Academy of Sciences.
Glitch will keep toll road toll-free for a while
A glitch in the electronic toll collection system that is part of the new State Highway 121 toll road means motorists using the roadway won't pay a toll until at least mid-November. The highway opened to traffic in early July and provides a direct route between Coppell and north Carrollton. When tolls are eventually collected, motorists with toll tags will pay 75 cents to drive approximately six miles on the new roadway while those without the state tags will pay $1.
The roadway, known as the "Golden Corridor" is the first in the country to install all-video toll collection. Using license plate information photographed by cameras, money will be deducted from customer accounts. Those without toll accounts will have bills sent to their address, based on information from their license plates.
More school districts plan November bond elections
Just under the wire, numerous school districts in Texas beat the Aug. 29 deadline for calling a bond election on the November General Election ballot. Among them:
a.. Katy ISD voters will decide a $269.4 million bond package, close to $8 million more than voters narrowly defeated in a similar election in May. The bond package includes five new schools, technology upgrades and improvements at some of the other campuses. This bond includes more building and maintenance repair projects and reduced technology expenditures from the failed bond election.
b.. Keller ISD officials eliminated a $17.5 million proposed stadium from their bond package being put before voters. The $142 million proposal includes $88.5 million for a new high school and $9.75 million to renovate and expand the current stadium. Proposition 1 on the ballot includes $132.5 million for two elementary schools, additions to another middle school and a fourth high school. Proposition 2 includes $9.75 million to pay for renovations and expansion of the current 5,500-seat stadium.
c.. Judson ISD will ask voters to approve a $236.4 million bond proposal that will be in different ballot proposals: $100 million for consolidating Judson High School, now divided into two campuses, into one new school; $59.6 million for two new elementary schools and a third to replace an existing one; $64.7 million for facility renovations and technology projects; and $12 million for a school building on Northeast Lakeview College campus.
d.. Jacksonville ISD voters will decide the fate of two propositions. The first would include $14.5 million for a building to replace an existing elementary school and repair a middle school roof and replace its air conditioning system. The second proposition would pay for a $12.5 million elementary school to replace an existing school.
e.. South San Antonio ISD voters will cast ballots on a $36.6 million bond proposal to bring its old athletic facilities up to date and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The bonds also would pay for parking lots, sidewalks and drainage projects at schools and includes $650,000 for artificial turf for the football stadium.
f.. Wichita Falls ISD will put a $60 million bond issue before voters that includes financing to consolidate four schools into two new buildings, provides for renovations at all elementary schools in the district, adds elementary gyms, renovation of an elementary school into an Early Childhood Center, updates of science labs in junior and senior high schools and air conditioning for secondary field houses and gyms.
g.. Bullard ISD voters will decide a $28.5 million bond package that provides for a new elementary school, a fine arts center with a 750-seat auditorium and a football stadium with 4,500 seats.
h.. Columbia-Brazoria ISD will put a $35 million bond proposal before its voters. The bonds would provide for rebuilding one elementary school, renovating one high school and one elementary school, replacing one elementary school and renovating several sports facilities.
i.. Sweeny ISD voters will face a $16 million bond vote that will provide renovations to the high school and for upgrades to the schools' air conditioning systems.
j.. Henderson ISD has called a $22 million bond election to finance the building of a new elementary school.
k.. Marble Falls ISD will take two propositions to voters - one for $54.4 million in renovations and additions to existing structure and a $7.8 million item for an extracurricular complex at the high school.
l.. Stafford Municipal SD hopes voters in its district will pass a $15 million bond - part of which will pay for repair and upgrade of school buildings.
Another 'pass through' project approved
The list of state transportation projects using the "pass through" finance method has increased again, this time for a project in Bexar County. The Texas Transportation Commission has voted to enter into an agreement with the county for a construction project to widen Blanco and Culebra roads.
The pass through method allows governmental entities to partner with the state financially, allowing road and highway projects to get on the drawing board faster. The entity's portion of the project is then paid back through a structured agreement with the state. Because of this funding partnership, these projects will start next year instead of the projected 2012 and 2014.
A&M names Pettibon to new post
Joseph P. Pettibon II has been named assistant provost for student financial aid at Texas A&M University, beating out two other finalists for the job - Vincent Amoroso, deputy director of scholarships and student aid at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Mariko Gomez, director of financial aid at Texas State University at San Marcos.
Pettibon will oversee the university's program of financial assistance and scholarships and serve on the provost's senior management team. He has been a member of the TAMU Department of Student Financial Aid since 1994 and was named director of Student Financial Aid in 2003. He previously served with the U.S. Army Test and Experimentation Command at Fort Hood. Pettibon holds a bachelor's degree from TAMU.
Hayes headed to Texas State University System
Texas Education Agency Associate Commissioner Patricia V. Hayes will be leaving TEA to become Vice Chancellor for Governmental Relations and Educational Policy at the Texas State University System.
While at TEA, Hayes has worked with numerous universities to foster partnerships in P-16 initiatives and coordinated grants and contracts that develop those partnerships. She is a former director of the Senate Education Subcommittee on Higher Education and served as a Special Assistant for Education under Lt. Gov. Bill Ratliff. In her new role at the Texas State University System, which she takes over Sept. 15, Hayes will represent the Board of Regents and the System before the Texas Legislature and other state and federal entities.
Houston, Montgomery County to take over park
The City of Houston and Montgomery County have taken a 4,800-acre park off the hands of the state and will begin operating Lake Houston State Park together. Not only will the park have new owners, but it also will have a new moniker - Lake Houston Park. Managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department since 1981, the park will feature camping, nature study, bird watching, hiking and biking.
The takeover comes at a time when the state's park system is struggling to make ends meet with its current revenues. With the transfer, the City of Houston will now budget $359,000 annually to operate the facility. City officials are working with Montgomery County officials to determine the level of support the county will provide for the project.
CCISD superintendent pick withdraws
Corpus Christi ISD is back to square one in its superintendent search as its choice for the position has rejected the school district's offer. Shonny Bria last month was named the district's lone finalist for the top job, but last week informed CCISD that she would be staying as the leader of the Battle Ground School District in Washington State.
The school board invited seven candidates for interviews in May and July, and then named Bria as the lone finalist. Now that she has declined, they must decide when to start the search again. It is likely they will not move forward until after the Nov. 7 General Election, when three CCISD trustee slots are up for election, which would give the new board final decision-making authority.
TWU approves $178 million budget
Texas Woman's University is in an enviable position - it just passed a budget that is $1.5 million smaller than last year's. The reason? Completion of a large construction project in Houston.
This year's $178.9 million budget includes more than $31 million in construction and renovation projects, down from last year's $45.8 million, including $45 million for the university's new Institute for Health Science in Houston.
Among the increases in this year's budget are $3 million for pay raises for university employees and $1.4 million for increased utility costs. A projected 6 percent increase in enrollment is expected to generate additional money for some programs cut from the budget.
Leander ISD makes land purchases
Officials in the Leander ISD are making hay while the sun shines - opting to purchase land now for future growth predicted in the district. LISD has inked contracts for two pieces of property on which schools will be built in the future to accommodate the district's rapid growth. One tract of more than 110 acres was purchased for a little over $25 million and is expected to be the site of a high school and middle school. The other tract, a little more than 40 acres, was purchased for $14.6 million as the projected site for a new elementary school.
Road, park bonds on tap in Williamson
Williamson County voters will go to the polls in November to decide the fate of a $250 million bond proposal related to roads and parks. The bond issue would authorize using $228 million for continuing work on projects that were begun under a previously passed bond proposal. Another $22 million would finance parkland, hike-and-bike trails, improvements to athletic fields and assistance for small cities.
San Angelo ISD delays its bond election
While numerous school districts were rushing to beat the deadline this week to get their bond issues on a November ballot, San Angelo ISD officials opted to delay their bond proposal until May 2007, fearing they did not have enough time to rally enough community support to pass the bond proposal. The bond issue would provide $97 million for a new high school campus, $24 million for two new elementary schools and $7 million in renovations to an existing high school.
''It is a very crucial bond," said Trustee Max Parker. "I don't think any of us wants to move too quickly.'' The board members are aware that their delay could result in higher construction costs, but know also that it will give them more time to sell the public on the bond issues.
20th Adopt-A-Beach cleanup announced
Volunteers hope to add to the 6,400 tons of debris they've picked up over the past two decades in the Texas General Land Office's 20th annual Adopt-A-Beach program, this year planned for Saturday, Sept. 23. Since the program began in 1986, more than 340,000 volunteers have picked up debris along Texas' 367 miles of coastline. Additional cleanups are slated for the winter and spring.
Texas beaches receive large amounts of marine debris because of a convergence of currents in the Gulf of Mexico. From the debris picked up, volunteers record data to learn more about the causes of marine debris and to help curb pollution on the Texas coast. For more information, click here.
Marshall could get new police, fire facilities
A successful November bond election could mean new facilities for the City of Marshall's police and fire departments. Marshall city commissioners this week approved an ordinance calling for a $6 million, two-proposition bond election. One proposition - for $5.5 million - addresses the police and fire facilities, and the other - for $730,000 - addresses improvements at five city parks. A third proposition addressing street improvements was eliminated.
Mayor Ed Smith said commissioners decided an investment in city parks was a higher priority than street improvements at this time. Smith said he thinks city streets are in need of attention, but added, "No one has come forward for streets - just parks." He hinted that street improvements might be addressed later through certificates of obligation.
Proposed UH campus still on hold
Plans for a new University of Houston satellite campus in the northwestern area of the city are still on hold, after the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board once again postponed taking any action on the proposal amid complaints from two other area universities. Both Prairie View A&M and Sam Houston State University officials say a new UH campus in that area could negatively affect their student enrollments.
Negotiations are still under way on a 47-acre plot, which UH leaders are hoping to purchase for nearly $39 million. The developer said he is willing to wait if a reasonable chance of approval by the THECB remains. UH officials had hoped to transform three office buildings, a manufacturing facility and four parking garages into a new campus, which they expected would open in spring 2007.
Amarillo College steps toward online education
More web-based services will be offered at Amarillo College this fall thanks to Internet technology with interactive tools for AC students, faculty and staff. The college's portal, MyAC, is aimed at increasing online services.
Linda Hendrick, director of telecommunications at AC, said everyone at AC will now have their own e-mail address through the college. Students will be able to view online calendars, receive announcements and chat among themselves online. Hendrick said the portal is built around "communities" and includes classes, clubs, committees, departments and offices. While those groups now are part of their own community, classes at AC eventually will be part of a group as well. AC's external Web site, MailScanner has detected a possible fraud attempt from "rd.bcentral.com" claiming to be www.actx.edu, will continue to be updated with information for the public, but AC students will have 24-hour availability to learning.
Midland County budget could include jail funds
Preliminary work on the expansion of the Midland County Jail could come from the $5 million county commissioners approved this week for capital projects as part of the county's $34.64 million FY 2007 budget. The county is in need of additional space because of overcrowding at the jail. Commissioners allocated an additional $500,000 in next year's budget just to pay other counties to house Midland County inmates.
County jail officials have indicated the need for 400 new beds at a cost of $35,000-$45,000 per bed. That size expansion would cost approximately $14 million and require nearly two-dozen additional jail staff.
UT-Dallas names associate provost
The University of Texas at Dallas has named Dr. Sheila Amin Gutierrez de Pineres as associate provost for enrollment services. She will head up the university's efforts to recruit and admit talented undergraduate and graduate students. Pineres was associate dean for undergraduate education within the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences at UTD, nearly doubling the entering student population.
Pineres is an associate professor of economics and political economy in UTD's School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences. She received her bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University, her master's from the University of Chicago and a Ph. D. degree in from Duke University. Prior to coming to UTD, she was an assistant professor at the University of Arkansas.
UTEP faculty featured at conference
Four University of Texas at El Paso professors are among the presenters during a special seminar this week on immigration and borders during the national meeting of the American Political Science Association, which continues through Sept. 3 in Philadelphia. This year's annual meeting is centered on the theme, "Power Reconsidered" and also will feature discussions of other current issues in political science and the public sphere.
The speakers include Irasema Coronado, Tony Kruszewski, Tony Payan and Kathy Staudt, all UTEP professors and experts on border and immigration issues. The seminar is being led by Christine Thurlow Brenner, an assistant professor of public policy at Rutgers-Camden. In addition to the presentations by the UTEP professors, faculty from five other institutions will lead courses that discuss the history of borders and how borders historically lead to conflict and war, as well as the immigration and labor challenges present at borders.
New associate provost named at UT-Tyler
Dr. Muthukrishnan Sathyamoorthy has been chosen as associate provost at the University of Texas at Tyler. He will assist the university's provost and vice president of academic affairs with the management of undergraduate programs. That will include managing policies and procedures and establishing new undergraduate programs. Sathyamoorthy is a former dean and professor of the Leonard C. Nelson College of Engineering at West Virginia University Institute of Technology and has been in higher education for more than three decades. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Madras in India, and his master's and Ph.D. degrees from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras.
Local governments should consider applying for these funds
By Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Ever notice that on holiday weekends there always seem to be more law enforcement officers patrolling Texas highways?
It's not a coincidence.
Thousands of law enforcement officers step up enforcement in high traffic areas of the state on holiday weekends, and the upcoming Labor Day weekend will be no exception. Officers from both local and state law enforcement agencies will be out in greater than usual numbers beginning today as part of the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) "Drink. Drive. Go to Jail" campaign.
Funding to both state and local law enforcement agencies for this type of traffic safety and enforcement program comes from TxDOT's Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP). The "Drink. Drive. Go to Jail" campaign is one of many throughout the state funded in part by TxDOT grants. STEP funds are used for numerous statewide initiatives but the program also allows Texas communities to apply for grants to fund various types of education and safety programs in local areas. The common thread among all the different STEP projects is the goal of saving lives and reducing injuries on Texas highways.
The amount of grant funding for STEP projects varies. In FY 05, for instance, 115 STEP grants were awarded. TxDOT officials note that from 2003-2005, the average STEP grant funding available was $23 million per year.
Many local government entities are quite innovative in requesting grant funds. Some examples include:
a.. The city of Santa Fe received $4,000 to send three of its officers to field sobriety training;
b.. A portable speed-testing machine that picks out speeding vehicles (even in heavy traffic) was purchased; and
c.. A portable instrument to allow officers to check a motorist's blood alcohol level at the scene instead of having to transport a suspected drunk driver to a police facility for a Breathalyzer test was purchased with grant funding.
STEP grant fund are available for projects that address vehicle speed violations, crashes and other hazards among commercial motor vehicles. Programs that increase child safety seat usage, control intersection traffic control, ensure compliance with speed limit laws and decrease impaired driving and alcohol-related crashes are also good project options.
TxDOT annually issues a Request for Proposal (RFP) for entities seeking STEP grant funding. An RFP for funding will be released in December. Project proposals will likely be due in February 2007. While the grants usually require some level of matching funds from participating entities - as little as 10 percent for one to three year projects - local governments find these funds beneficial in both stretching law enforcement budgets and in saving lives. For more information, contact the District Traffic Safety Specialists in your area or click here.
Steve Westbrook named to SFA interim post
Steve Westbrook, Dean of Student Affairs at Stephen F. Austin State University, has been named interim vice president for university affairs. Westbrook supervises staff with responsibilities for campus recreation, the University Center, housing and residence life, the Multicultural Center, student activities, student leadership and governance and the SFA Ticket Office and Graphics Shop. He has been with SFA for 25 years.
His new responsibilities will include oversight of Counseling and Career Services, Disability Services, the Health Clinic, Judicial Affairs, Student Publications and the University Police Department. Westbrook holds bachelor's and master's degrees from SFA and began working for the university in 1981 as University Center program advisor.
Armstrong named new Pasadena fire chief
Longtime Pasadena firefighter Lanny Armstrong has been named the city's new fire chief. Armstrong will take over the chief's position vacated by former Chief Jerry Gardner, who left to become fire chief in Killeen. The Pasadena Fire Department is one of the country's largest volunteer fire departments, with some 200 members. Armstrong becomes only the second paid chief in the department's history. Armstrong joined the PFD in 2001.
Brazosport holds superintendent interviews
Officials with the Brazosport ISD this week began a first round of interviews with would-be superintendent candidates. The board of trustees is looking for a replacement for Rudy Okrhulik, who will retire in December. The selection will be made from more than three-dozen applicants.
Once the interviews are completed, the board will meet again to consider whether to hold a second round of interviews or open the process for more applicants.
DSHS offers crisis counseling service
The Texas Department of State Health Services has announced a toll-free crisis counseling service available for the more than 251,000 Hurricane Katrina evacuees still in Texas. The service is for those evacuees whose anxiety, depression and other mental health problems might have been triggered by the one-year anniversary of the landfall of the hurricane. The program, administered by DSHS and funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covers short-term intervention counseling and education services but not hospitalization or other long-term mental health treatments.
Sanchez named to Travis County health board
Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, who is stepping down in October as commissioner of the Department of State Health Services, this week was named to a four-year term on the Travis County Healthcare District board. He will replace Tom Young, who did not seek reappointment. Last week, officials at the University of Texas School of Public Health in Houston announced that Sanchez will direct the Institute for Health Policy there. Sanchez is a former lead physician at the Seton Topfer Clinic and was chief medical officer for the Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department.
Nacogdoches interviews four for fire chief
Four candidates for Nacogdoches Fire Chief have been interviewed, and City Manager Jim Jeffers (pictured) said he hopes to name finalists for the position by the end of this month. NFD Captain Chuck French is the only in-house candidate for the chief spot which was vacated by former Chief David Fiero after only five months on the job. Fiero left to take a part-time job with the Federal Urban Search and Rescue System's Texas Task Force One.
Firefighter Robert Templin has been serving as Deputy Chief in Charge since Fiero's resignation. In addition to French, others who have been interviewed include: Ronnie Grooms, chief of the Paris Fire Department; Kelly King, chief of the Keller Fire Department; and Keith Kiplinger, former NFD firefighter and current fire marshal in League City.
Ask the experts
Q: When does the Texas Legislature meet again?
A: Unless the governor calls a special session before then, the legislature will next convene in January 2007 for the 80th Regular Session. The time and duration of Regular Sessions are specified in the Texas Constitution.
Here are some key dates associated with the 80th Session.
a.. November 7 - General Election which includes the election of the governor, all the House members and half of the state's senators.
b.. November 13 - The earliest date that bills may be pre-filed.
c.. January 9, 2007 - The 80th Legislature convenes at noon.
d.. March 9, 2007 - The 60th day of the session is the deadline for filing bills and joint resolutions other than local bills, emergency appropriations, and bills that have been declared emergencies by the governor. This many be waived by a 4/5 vote.
e.. May 28, 2007 - Last day of the 80th Regular Session.
f.. June 17, 2007 - Last day the governor can sign or veto bills.
-Len Riley,
Senior Consultant, Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Have a question for one of SPI's government procurement experts?
Drop us a line!
Malandra named vice chancellor at UT System
Dr. Geri Hockfield Malandra has been named vice chancellor for strategic management at The University of Texas System. She takes over her new duties today after having served as vice chancellor for institutional planning and accountability and interim executive vice chancellor for academic affairs. Malandra will oversee implementation of the UT System's new 10-year strategic plan and handle management planning for the UT System administration. She will also be responsible for the system's accountability reports.
Malandra came to the UT System after having served in administrative positions with the University of Minnesota, where she also directed the office of research development in the College of Liberal Arts. She holds a bachelor's degree from Carleton College and a master's and doctorate from the University of Minnesota.
Part-time job opportunities available at SPI:
SPI is seeking experienced researchers for short-term engagements involving research in other states. The candidates for these part-time positions should have experience in state or federal government and have an understanding of procurement processes and concepts. Tasks will vary depending on clients' needs. Applicants may send a cover letter and resume to jobs at spartnerships.com.
SPI is seeking part-time consultants with healthcare subject matter expertise, particularly with Texas hospitals. Candidates should have worked in or been associated with the medical and/or healthcare industry in Texas and have an extensive knowledge of the healthcare industry. To view the complete job description, click here.
SPI is also seeking part-time local government consultants who have worked in and around the local public sector in Texas (city and county), have subject matter expertise in local government, continuing relationships in local government and a knowledge of budgetary and procurement processes. To view the complete job description, click here.
Nash takes over as Sabine Pass superintendent
Malcolm Nash has taken over the reins as superintendent of the Sabine Pass ISD. The former West Sabine ISD superintendent began his new job this week. He is working closely with former Port Neches-Groves Superintendent Zack Byrd, who has served as SPISD interim superintendent since April.
Recent Reports
a.. SAO Audit Report on Community Mental Health Mental Retardation Centers' Expenditures
b.. SAO Audit Report on Procurement at the Texas Lottery Commission
c.. SAO Audit Report on the State Office of Administrative Hearings
d.. SAO Audit Report on Texas Woman's University's Management Practices for Endowment Funds
e.. SAO Audit Report on the University of North Texas's Management Practices for Endowment Funds
f.. SAO Audit Report on Indirect Cost Recovery Funds at State General Academic Universities
g.. SAO Review of State Agencies' Implementation of Sunset Advisory Commission Management Actions
h.. SAO Audit on the Historically Underutilized Business Program at the Texas Building and Procurement Commission
i.. SAO Audit on on Texas Southern University's Management Practices for Endowment Funds
j.. SAO Audit on Dept. of Licensing and Regulation
k.. Guide to Performance Measure Management
l.. Reflections on the 79th Legislative Session
m.. Summary of Enactments, 3rd Called Session
n.. Sunset Commission Decisions re the Texas Animal Health Commission
o.. Sunset Committee Decisions re the Texas Real Estate Commission
Event Links
a.. SPI/LBJ Legislative Conference · Oct 10
b.. e-Records Conference · Oct 19
c.. Texas County Purchasing Association Fall Conference · Oct 11-13
d.. Texas Conference on Regionalism · Oct 4-6
e.. TML Annual Conference · Oct 25-27
f.. Annual Texas Workforce Conference · Nov. 27-Dec.1
g.. Texas Homeland Security Conference · Nov 27 to Dec 1
h.. Attorney General's Open Records Conference · Dec. 5-7
i.. TWC Texas Business Conferences
j.. HUB Forums in August
k.. HUB Forums in September
l.. LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
m.. TBPC Contract Management Training Schedule
n.. TBPC Procurement Training Schedule
o.. Texas Veterans Benefits Seminars
p.. Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events
Texas Government Insider Archives
Volume 1, 2, 3 and 4 Archives - 11/7/03 - 8/25/06
Resources
a.. Preparing and Submitting Information Technology Detail REVISED 8/28/06
b.. Guide to the Sunset Process
c.. Public Information Handbook · 2006
d.. Open Meetings Handbook · 2006
e.. Administrative Law Handbook · 2006
f.. Public Officers: Traps for the Unwary · 2006
g.. Nepotism Laws Made Easy · 2006
h.. Eminent Domain Made Easy · 2006
i.. LBB Budget and Performance Assessments
j.. Senate Interim Charges
k.. House Interim Charges
l.. Texas Fact Book '06-'07
m.. LBB's Fiscal Size-up '06-'07
n.. Texas Human Resources Management Statutes Inventory
o.. TBPC Vendor Guide
p.. State Budget Resources
q.. HUB Forms Library
r.. State Contract Management Guide
s.. State Procurement Manual
t.. Who Represents Me? Texas Districts By Address
u.. Diagram of Texas' Biennial Budget Cycle
Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI) is a research and consulting firm offering business development and public affairs services.
Founded in Texas in 1994 by former government executives and public sector experts, SPI has developed a national reputation as the premier marketing partner dedicated to helping companies secure contracts in the $1.5 trillion state and local government marketplace.
To learn more about SPI services click here or contact our sales department at 512-531-3900.
6034 W. Courtyard Dr. #100
Austin, Texas 78730
Assistants' Conference taking online registrations
Registrations are being accepted for the Statewide Assistants' Conference, set for Oct. 5-7 at the Hilton Hotel in College Station. Attendees will have an opportunity to visit with city managers from throughout the state to explore case studies regarding strategy for a variety of situations. Other sessions during the conference address issues such as the upcoming legislative session, energy efficiency and the media. For more information and to register online, click here.
Construction trade fair set for October
The Central and South Texas Minority Business Council (CSTMBC), the University of Texas System and the Texas Building and Procurement Commission will host the construction trade fair, "Let's Build Together," from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 4 at the Freeman Coliseum at 3201 East Houston Street in San Antonio. Those groups are holding the event in conjunction with the Dallas-Fort Worth Minority Business Council, Houston Minority Business Council, Texas Department of Transportation, Bexar County Economic Development, Texas A&M University System and a private sector construction firm.
The fair marks the first time private and public sector organizations have joined together to provide opportunities not only to general contractors and sub-contractors, but also to minority- and women-owned businesses in construction-related industries. Highlighting the "Let's Build Together" theme will be a multi-purpose seminar featuring representatives from public and private organizations providing upcoming bid opportunities. The fair is free, and workshops include: Bonding and Finance - How to Get It and When to Use It, Upcoming Bid Opportunities - Across the State, No More Loopholes - How They are Being Eliminated and Construction Straight Talk. For more information and to register online, click here.
ICMA to host annual conference
The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) will host its 92nd Annual Conference Sunday through Wednesday, Sept. 10-13, in San Antonio. ICMA is the professional and educational organization for chief appointed managers, administrators, and assistants in cities, towns, counties, and regional entities throughout the world. ICMA has provided technical and management assistance, training, and information resources to its members and the local government community since 1914. For more details on the conference, click here.
Attorney General hosts Open Government Conference
The Texas Attorney General's Office has scheduled its 2006 Open Government Conference for Dec. 5-7 at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. The conference is designed for the general public, government employees, elected officials, members of the media and companies doing business with Texas state government. Among issues to be discussed are the Open Meetings Act and the Public Information Act, privacy and personnel records and ethical responsibilities. Click here for conference information and registration form.
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John Barnes - Contact
d.john.barnes at hotmail.com <d.john.barnes at hotmail.com>
Kurt Wall at Usaact.com --
nanoTX '06 - Call for Volunteers
We are looking for volunteers to assist speakers in our nanoTX'06 conference rooms for both days, September 27- 28.
o Selected volunteers will attend this major event for free and get complete access to the business hall.
o Volunteers will be welcome at the Exhibitors Reception where the Foresight Feynman Awards will be announced. This will be a wonderful opportunity to network.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
nanoTX '06 - The World's Largest Nanotechnology Conference & Trade Expo
Dallas Convention Center, during International Nanotechnology Week, Sept. 27 & 28, 2006
Planned attendance is 40,000 to 50,000. Nanotech Leaders, Engineers, R&D, C-Level Executives, Angel Investors & Venture Capitalists will be in attendance.
Nanotech firms will be shopping the tradeshow's four pavilions:
Semiconductor/NEMS/MEMS; Energy/Chemical/Environment; Biomedical/Health Science; Defense/Aerospace/Homeland Security.
Major Sponsors include McKool Smith, Lockheed Martin, Applied Materials, Texas Instruments and Zyvex.
Be sure to view www.nanotx.biz
or phone: 214-513-9567
Search "nanotx" to see the worldwide exposure this dynamic, high caliber event is drawing. Daily page views averaging 245,000.
"This is the REAL event others only claim to be!"- Kelly Kordzik, Pres., Texas Nanotechnology Initiative
"By all measures, nanoTX'06 is shaping up to be one of the most important (perhaps THE most important) nanotech conferences ever, and has reached "must participate" status even here in Chicago. Bluntly put, if you're in the nanotech space and not involved in some way with nanoTX'06, then you're branding yourself as a non-player!" Peter Balbus, Pragmaxis Inc.
Space runs $28 a square foot ($2,800 for a 10x10). Exhibitors receive:
a.. Two tickets to the INVITATION ONLY Nobel Laureate Legends Reception. These tickets are priceless and only available to VIPs, sponsors & exhibitors. The Who's Who in Nanotechnology will be present at this networking event, dedicated to the memory of the late Richard Smalley and Jack Kilby. Note: Due to room limitations, these tickets will be available only for a limited time. This is the ultimate gathering of the Who's Who in Nanotechnology.
b.. Two Conference Session Passes for admission to any or all conference sessions (these are $1065 at the gate).
c.. Unlimited passes to the Exhibition Cocktail Reception & Foresight Feynman Award Annoucements.
d.. Unlimited Number of Passes to the Exhibit Hall (these are $40 at the gate) to distribute to customers and employees
Charismatic Leadership
a.. H. Ross Perot inspires with opening remarks
Internationally renowned business leader, nanotech investor, twice Presidential candidate
Top C-level Management of Major Firms from US & Abroad Attending
· See www.nanotx.biz for important business leaders too numerous to list here at a glance
· nanoTX'06 featured in CEO Magazine in July and September, 2006
More Speakers
· International Nanotechnology Week
150+ Nanotechnology Specialists from 30 different countries to speak
a.. Foresight Feynman Award winners present their work at the conference
Hundreds of important researchers vie for these honors every year
a.. Trends/Finance/Investing panels
Venture and angel capitalists, and the Forbes/Wolfe Nanotech Report
a.. Nanotech 101-An Overview of Nanotechnology for Non-techies
Taught by Austin Community College, free admission day before conference and trade expo
Special Events
a.. Documentary on the lives of Jack Kilby and Richard Smalley
Exclusive footage, information never before publicized
a.. Nobel Laureates Legends Reception (networking, by invitation only)
Six Nobel Prize winners openly discuss their work and the future of nanotechnology
a.. Energy Summit
Hosted by Dr. Alan MacDiarmid, Nobel Laureate, of the University of Texas, Dallas
[2000 winner, Chemistry] who is renowned for his writings on energy solutions
a.. Foresight Institute's Feynman Award winners
Two $10,000 awards in nanotechnology will be announced
a.. Documentary to be filmed at nanoTX'06
A top rated broadcast film crew on the latest advances in nanotechnology
a.. Exhibitors Networking Cocktail Reception
For sponsors, exhibitors, and chosen guests, held in the spectacular hall atrium
a.. Bob Biard, close friend and co-worker of Jack Kilby, and a UNT Jazz Lab Combo
to provide entertainment at Exhibitor's Networking Cocktail reception
Celebrity Photographer
W. W. Caruth, III, noted philanthropist whose eclectic work from around the world hangs in a Dallas gallery, will chronicle this historic event
Exhibits (by hundreds of exhibitors)
a.. Breakthrough Technology Revealed by Leading Firms
Many exhibitors have chosen nanoTX'06 to unveil dramatic developments
a.. New Product Demos
Long-time business alliances of complementary firms to be nurtured, established
a.. Enter The Nano World, walk-through exhibit debuts
Stunning living experience created by Rice University especially for nanoTX'06
a.. $200Million Texas Emerging Technology Fund study
Find out first-hand how the Texas governor's office launched the fund
a.. Walk-Through exhibit recreates the Texas Experience
A 10x40 foot exhibit delivers the state in breathtaking reality
a.. Corvette Driving Giveaway
Features Firestone tires utilizing nanotechnology
a.. "The Promise of Tomorrow" - symbolized by the Batmobile
On display, original 1960's style car symbolizing the future
Sponsors (regular updates at web site)
a.. Top Commercial Firms Sponsoring
Currently number thirteen and growing
a.. Foreign Countries Sponsoring
Currently include Britain, Japan, Canada, France, Israel
a.. Preeminent Universities and Colleges
Currently number sixteen from several states
a.. Cities and States outside of Texas
Still growing and include New Mexico; Shimane, Japan; Albany, NY; Pennsylvania
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Converging Technology and Smart Buildings / Smart Inland Ports
Converging Technology and Transporation and Mobility
Converging Technology and Economic Development
Converging Technology and Real Estate Development with Financing
RFId and Nano Technologies
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