El Paso Museum of History Changes Hours of Operation

Beginning June 1, 2009 the El Paso Museum of History will be open during the following hours:
Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Thursday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m.-5p.m.
Closed Monday
The museum gift shop, A Step in Time, is open during regular museum hours.

El Paso Museum of History
510 N. Santa Fe Street
El Paso, TX 79901
351-3588

Meet the Mayor Day

Mayor Cook Opens His Door to the Public

WHO: Mayor John Cook


WHAT: will hold his monthly “Open Door” meeting


WHEN: Wednesday, June 3, 2009
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: City Hall, 10th Floor
2 Civic Center Plaza


WHY: As part of the Mayor’s community outreach, he is making himself available to the public with a monthly “Open Door” meeting day.

The public is welcome to visit with the Mayor and discuss concerns, ideas or just give input on how to improve our community.

Fort Bliss to get Reinforcements in support of 'Spouse Field' Exercises

DALLAS - A team of Army & Air Force Exchange Service associates, armed with
prizes and giveaways, will converge on Ft. Bliss in support of a seminar for
military spouses June 4th through the 5th.

"We've done a couple of these events and found them not only to be
informative, but also a whole lot of fun," said AAFES Strategic Marketing
Manager Eric Alberts. "We're coming to Ft. Bliss to ensure Army spouses have
the information they need to take full advantage of their exchange benefit
and demonstrate how the PX can be a terrific asset when it comes to sending
care packages."

AAFES personnel will display, and ultimately give away, eight complete care
packages to seminar attendees.

The Spouse Field Exercises at Ft. Bliss are scheduled for June 4th, from
5
p.m. to 9 p.m., and June 5th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Centennial Club.
Spouses interested in attending either event must register online at
www.armywifenetwork.com .

Neighborhood Cleanup Coming To Your Neighborhood Segundo Barrio

IMPROVING LOW-INCOME NEIGHBORHOODS

WHO: City of El Paso’s Department of Community and Human Development Neighborhood Services Division

WHAT: Segundo Barrio Neighborhood Cleanup

WHEN: Saturday, May, 30, 2009 from 7am – 12pm

WHERE: Segundo Barrio Neighborhood (Map below)
Volunteers will meet at the Armijo Recreation Center
on 700 E. 7th Street (from 7am-12pm)

WHY: Revitalization is taking place in the Segundo Barrio in an effort to improve the quality of life to low-income families in that area.

With resident participation, the City of El Paso along with other community organizations will be partnering with residents to clean up the Segundo Barrio Neighborhood on Saturday, May 30th starting at 7 a.m. The clean up will only be focused on residential areas.

The Neighborhood Services Division, in its mission to revitalize El Paso neighborhoods, has focused on the needs of the Segundo Barrio. The Clean up day is an attempt at uniting residents by cleaning up their neighborhood and establishing neighborhood pride. Specific neighborhoods have been targeted for the clean up – if you would like to know if your street is a part of the clean up please call the Neighborhood Services Division at 541-4377.



Event Contact: Soraya Ayub, Neighborhood Relations Coordinator, 541-4019



CLEANUP:

1) Cleanup is for RESIDENTIAL AREAS ONLY

2) Items to be collected include old tires, furniture, appliances, car parts, tree trimmings, etc.

3) Hazardous waste items will NOT be collected (pool chemical, fertilizers, aerosol spray cans, cleaning products, anti-freeze, paint, car batteries or oil)

4) All items must be PLACED ON CURB for collection by Friday night. (Cleanup crews will only pass each street once staring around 7:30 a.m.)

5) Loose items must be BAGGED, BOXED or TIED to be easily handled by two people

6) Place ALL TIRES and METAL ITEMS in separate piles

ELDERLY or DISABLED HOUSEHOLDS – Who Need Assistance

Please contact Neighborhood Services so we may arrange to have volunteers assist you in bringing out the items from your property.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

If you would like to volunteer please call Neighborhood Services at 541-4377. About 50 to 100 volunteers are needed to help on the day of the cleanup to put items into dumpsters.

City Departments Prepare for 4/10 Work Week

Beginning June 1, 2009 several City departments will be changing their operational hours as part of a 4/10 pilot program that is saving the City in excess of $55,000 over a three month period. The program will work as follows:
Monday, June 1, 2009 to Friday, August 28, 2009
Monday through Thursday schedule (closed on Fridays)
Operating hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

A complete listing of departments will assist in being aware of operational hours for all City services during this pilot program:

El Paso International Airport Regular hours - no changes

Bridges Regular hours- no changes

Sun Metro Regular hours- no changes

General Services Regular hours- no changes
El Paso Public Library Regular hours- no changes
El Paso Zoo Regular hours- no changes
MPO Regular hours- no changes
El Paso Convention & Visitors Bureau Convention &
Performing Arts Centers Regular hours- no changes
El Paso Fire Department Emergency services will remain 24 /7
All fire stations will remain open - no changes
Training Academy- regular hours - no changes

4/10 Administrative Offices- 8600 Montana 7am- 7pm M-Th
Including fire prevention and logistics

-MORE-
El Paso Police Department All regional command centers will maintain
regular hours - a 24/7 operation - no changes


Environmental Services Trash pick-up schedule –no changes
Landfill- regular hours – no changes
Citizen collection sites- no changes
Special collection pick-up - no changes
Code enforcement – regular hours – no changes
4/10 Administrative Offices-7968 San Paulo 7am – 7pm M-Th

Department of Public Health WIC Clinics – regular hours- no changes
Immunization Clinics - no changes
Animal Services - no changes
Food Inspection - no changes
Laboratory Services - no changes
4/10 Administrative Offices- 5115 El Paso Dr. – 7am- 7pm M-Th

Street Department

4/10 All operations – 7am – 7pm M-Th
Will respond to emergencies

Municipal Courts Regular hours – no changes


City Hall
4/10 2 Civic Center Plaza-7am- 7pm M-Th
All departments within City Hall will be participating

Mayor & City Council Offices
City Manager’s Office
City Attorney’s Office
Community Development
Economic Development
Financial Services
Human Resources
Municipal Clerk-City Clerk’s Office
Internal Audit
Office of Management & Budget
Tax Office
Print Shop


-MORE-

Information Technology
4/10 Administrative area will participate
IT Helpdesk will be available regular hours

Development Services Department
4/10 Administrative area will participate

The building inspectors and chiefs will remain on the 5-day a week schedule, so inspections will not be affected.
Inspections for Friday will be conducted as scheduled.
Inspections for Monday will need to be scheduled through the IVR system (313-6100)


Engineering Department
4/10 Administrative area will participate

The Project Inspectors will continue to work the same scheduled hours as the Contractor. If the Contractor is working 5-8 hour days, the inspector will as well. If the Contractor is working different hours, according to the contract or as agreed upon with Engineering, the inspector will work those hours.

The Traffic Management Center (TMC) will be manned from Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Museums and Cultural Affairs
4/10 Administrative area will participate

Museum of Art – regular hours - no changes
Museum of History- regular hours - no changes
Museum of Archeology-regular hours - no changes
Parks & Recreation
4/10 Administrative area will participate

Recreation Centers- regular hours - no changes
Senior Centers- regular hours - no changes
City Pools- regular hours - no changes
Sports Centers - regular hours- no changes
Maintenance Corrals - regular hours- no changes



For contact information for any of the departments mentioned above please visit the City website at www.elpasotexas.gov

Summer Camp to be held at Clarkston Art, Guitars & Gifts

Summer Camp to be held at Clarkston Art, Guitars & Gifts 407 E. Nevada.
Kids ages 7-17 years old will learn about acrylics, clay, photography,
scrap booking and music. Taught in a fun-filled environment by James & Mel
Clarkston. "Creative Camp" will be Tuesday June 9th-Friday June 12th, from
3:30-5:30pm each day. Cost is $100.00 per child and includes all materials
and a snack. Bring in a friend and get $25.00 off the cost of each child.
Must register by phone at (915) 351-0875. For
further information on Mel Clarkston visit www.melclarkston.com For info
on James Clarkston go to www.jamesclarkston.com

Gov. Perry Appoints Five to Texas Board of Nursing

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has appointed five members to the Texas Board of
Nursing for terms to expire Feb. 1, 2015. The board ensures licensed nurses
in Texas meet the necessary requirements to practice, and oversees
accreditation of schools of nursing.

Mary Jane Salgado of Eagle Pass is a realtor, business woman and economic
developer for the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas. She is a past member
of the Eagle Pass City Council, National Hispanic Association of Real Estate
Professionals, and National and Texas associations of Realtors. She is also
a member of the State Board of Texas Rural Leadership and Candles for Life
Non-Profit. Salgado received a bachelor's degree and master's degree in
education from Sul Ross State University. She is being reappointed.

Sheri Crosby of Mesquite is an attorney at Taber Estes Thorne and Carr PLLC.
She is a member of the American Bar Association, State Bar of Texas, Texas
Association of Young Lawyers, JL Turner Legal Association, and Corporate
Counsel Women of Color. She is also chair of the Dallas Bar Association's
Labor and Employment Section Speakers Committee, co-chair of the Attorneys
Serving the Community Membership Committee, and a volunteer with Big Brother
Big Sisters of North Texas, Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, and
E-Mentoring Esq. Crosby received a bachelor's degree from Emory University
and a law degree from the University at Buffalo School of Law. She is being
reappointed.

Kathy Leader-Horn of Granbury is a school nurse in the Granbury Independent
School District and Grace Hospice. She is an instructor for the American
Safety and Health Institute, a State of Texas Vision and Hearing Screener,
and a member of the School Health Advisory Board. She is also a volunteer
with the Healthy Kids Summer Lunch Program, Christmas for Children's
Charities, Operation School Supplies and Lakeside Baptist Church.
Leader-Horn received a licensed vocational nurse degree from the John P.
Smith School of Nursing. She replaces Rachel Gomez of Harlingen.

Josefina Lujan of El Paso is regional dean of the Texas Tech University
Health Sciences Center Anita Thigpen Perry School of Nursing. She is a
member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Southern Nursing
Research Society, Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing, and US-Mexico
Border Health Association. She is also secretary of the El Paso Diabetes
Association and is a volunteer with St. Patricks Cathedral. Lujan received a
bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Texas at El
Paso, and a doctorate in nursing from the University of Texas Health Science
Center at Houston. She replaces Brenda Jackson of San Antonio.

Tamara Cowen of Harlingen is assistant vice president of patient safety
solutions for the Valley Baptist Health System. She is a member of the Texas
Nurse's Association and American College of Healthcare Executives, past
secretary of the Texas Border Health Foundation, and past chairman of the
American Red Cross Audit Committee. She is also a volunteer with the United
Way and American Cancer Society. Cowen received a bachelor's degree from
University of Texas Pan American and a master's degree in nursing from the
University of Texas Health Science Center. She replaces George Buchenau of
Amarillo.

Marty Robbins Pool Closed Beginning Today

Closure temporary for maintenance


Please be advised that due to mechanical problems Marty Robbins Aquatic Center will be closed beginning today, May 26, 2009. The pool will remain closed until work has been completed.


For more information, please call Delfina Gallegos at (915) 544-3556.

L.A. Eyeworks “Face It!” Collection

The El Paso Museum of Art Store announces
L.A. Eyeworks “Face It!” Collection
Exhibition

The El Paso Museum of Art Store announces the L.A. Eyeworks “Face It!” Collection exhibition through June 30, 2009. This exhibition features 28 eyeglass-inspired artworks from the l.a.Eyeworks Face It! collection. The exhibition is organized locally by the Museum Store’s principals, Norma Geller and Sally Gilbert. Face It! is a one-of-a-kind collection of l.a.Eyeworks frames that have been re-imagined and embellished by designers, jewelers, and artisans. The collection, now comprising 97 works by more than 25 artists, also includes unique artworks based on the form and concept of spectacles.

Geller and Gilbert, both recipients of national awards in the gift and design industry, seek to expand the public’s enjoyment of the Museum Store with an ongoing series of imaginative programs, including Face It!

Although the Face It! works are not for sale, the Museum Store is offering several contemporary l.a.Eyeworks sunglass designs for purchase.

For more information, please contact the Museum Store at (915) 532-1707 x 47.

Soak the Rich, Lose the Rich

WALL STREET JOURNAL
Soak the Rich, Lose the Rich
Americans know how to use the moving van to escape high taxes
By ARTHUR LAFFER and STEPHEN MOORE
May 18, 2009

With states facing nearly $100 billion in combined budget deficits this
year, we're seeing more governors than ever proposing the Barack Obama
solution to balancing the budget: Soak the rich. Lawmakers in California,
Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York and Oregon
want to raise income tax rates on the top 1% or 2% or 5% of their citizens.
New Illinois Gov. Patrick Quinn wants a 50% increase in the income tax rate
on the wealthy because this is the "fair" way to close his state's gaping
deficit.

Mr. Quinn and other tax-raising governors have been emboldened by recent
studies by left-wing groups like the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities
that suggest that "tax increases, particularly tax increases on
higher-income families, may be the best available option." A recent letter
to New York Gov. David Paterson signed by 100 economists advises the Empire
State to "raise tax rates for high income families right away."

Here's the problem for states that want to pry more money out of the wallets
of rich people. It never works because people, investment capital and
businesses are mobile: They can leave tax-unfriendly states and move to
tax-friendly states.

And the evidence that we discovered in our new study for the American
Legislative Exchange Council, "Rich States, Poor States," published in
March, shows that Americans are more sensitive to high taxes than ever
before. The tax differential between low-tax and high-tax states is
widening, meaning that a relocation from high-tax California or Ohio, to
no-income tax Texas or Tennessee, is all the more financially profitable
both in terms of lower tax bills and more job opportunities.

Updating some research from Richard Vedder of Ohio University, we found that
from 1998 to 2007, more than 1,100 people every day including Sundays and
holidays moved from the nine highest income-tax states such as California,
New Jersey, New York and Ohio and relocated mostly to the nine tax-haven
states with no income tax, including Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire and
Texas. We also found that over these same years the no-income tax states
created 89% more jobs and had 32% faster personal income growth than their
high-tax counterparts.

Did the greater prosperity in low-tax states happen by chance? Is it
coincidence that the two highest tax-rate states in the nation, California
and New York, have the biggest fiscal holes to repair? No. Dozens of
academic studies -- old and new -- have found clear and irrefutable
statistical evidence that high state and local taxes repel jobs and
businesses.

Martin Feldstein, Harvard economist and former president of the National
Bureau of Economic Research, co-authored a famous study in 1998 called "Can
State Taxes Redistribute Income?" This should be required reading for
today's state legislators. It concludes: "Since individuals can avoid
unfavorable taxes by migrating to jurisdictions that offer more favorable
tax conditions, a relatively unfavorable tax will cause gross wages to
adjust. . . . A more progressive tax thus induces firms to hire fewer high
skilled employees and to hire more low skilled employees."

More recently, Barry W. Poulson of the University of Colorado last year
examined many factors that explain why some states grew richer than others
from 1964 to 2004 and found "a significant negative impact of higher
marginal tax rates on state economic growth." In other words, soaking the
rich doesn't work. To the contrary, middle-class workers end up taking the
hit.

Finally, there is the issue of whether high-income people move away from
states that have high income-tax rates. Examining IRS tax return data by
state, E.J. McMahon, a fiscal expert at the Manhattan Institute, measured
the impact of large income-tax rate increases on the rich ($200,000 income
or more) in Connecticut, which raised its tax rate in 2003 to 5% from 4.5%;
in New Jersey, which raised its rate in 2004 to 8.97% from 6.35%; and in New
York, which raised its tax rate in 2003 to 7.7% from 6.85%. Over the period
2002-2005, in each of these states the "soak the rich" tax hike was followed
by a significant reduction in the number of rich people paying taxes in
these states relative to the national average. Amazingly, these three states
ranked 46th, 49th and 50th among all states in the percentage increase in
wealthy tax filers in the years after they tried to soak the rich.

This result was all the more remarkable given that these were years when the
stock market boomed and Wall Street gains were in the trillions of dollars.
Examining data from a 2008 Princeton study on the New Jersey tax hike on the
wealthy, we found that there were 4,000 missing half-millionaires in New
Jersey after that tax took effect. New Jersey now has one of the largest
budget deficits in the nation.

We believe there are three unintended consequences from states raising tax
rates on the rich. First, some rich residents sell their homes and leave the
state; second, those who stay in the state report less taxable income on
their tax returns; and third, some rich people choose not to locate in a
high-tax state. Since many rich people also tend to be successful business
owners, jobs leave with them or they never arrive in the first place. This
is why high income-tax states have such a tough time creating net new jobs
for low-income residents and college graduates.

Those who disapprove of tax competition complain that lower state taxes only
create a zero-sum competition where states "race to the bottom" and cut
services to the poor as taxes fall to zero. They say that tax cutting
inevitably means lower quality schools and police protection as lower tax
rates mean starvation of public services.

They're wrong, and New Hampshire is our favorite illustration. The Live Free
or Die State has no income or sales tax, yet it has high-quality schools and
excellent public services. Students in New Hampshire public schools achieve
the fourth-highest test scores in the nation -- even though the state spends
about $1,000 a year less per resident on state and local government than the
average state and, incredibly, $5,000 less per person than New York. And on
the other side of the ledger, California in 2007 had the highest-paid
classroom teachers in the nation, and yet the Golden State had the
second-lowest test scores.

Or consider the fiasco of New Jersey. In the early 1960s, the state had no
state income tax and no state sales tax. It was a rapidly growing state
attracting people from everywhere and running budget surpluses. Today its
income and sales taxes are among the highest in the nation yet it suffers
from perpetual deficits and its schools rank among the worst in the nation
-- much worse than those in New Hampshire. Most of the massive infusion of
tax dollars over the past 40 years has simply enriched the public-employee
unions in the Garden State. People are fleeing the state in droves.

One last point: States aren't simply competing with each other. As Texas
Gov. Rick Perry recently told us, "Our state is competing with Germany,
France, Japan and China for business. We'd better have a pro-growth tax
system or those American jobs will be out-sourced." Gov. Perry and Texas
have the jobs and prosperity model exactly right. Texas created more new
jobs in 2008 than all other 49 states combined. And Texas is the only state
other than Georgia and North Dakota that is cutting taxes this year.

The Texas economic model makes a whole lot more sense than the New Jersey
model, and we hope the politicians in California, Delaware, Illinois,
Minnesota and New York realize this before it's too late.

Mr. Laffer is president of Laffer Associates. Mr. Moore is senior economics
writer for the Wall Street Journal. They are co-authors of "Rich States,
Poor States" (American Legislative Exchange Council, 2009).

Mosquito Fogging Resumes

The Code Compliance Division of the City of El Paso Environmental Services Department is stepping up its annual fight against mosquitoes.

Fogging operations – the process of injecting a federally-approved insecticide into the air to kill adult mosquitoes – resumed this week. Crews are fogging neighborhoods at dusk and dawn, which are when adult mosquitoes are most active. All of El Paso County will be fogged according to a schedule that divides the community into seven zones. Weather permitting every zone will be fogged each week.

Aggressive mosquito surveillance is also resuming due to the threat of the West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. So far this year, none of the mosquitoes trapped by vector control crews have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

Citizens can do their share to reduce the mosquito population by getting rid of any standing water outside their homes and businesses. Other preventative measures include: making sure your roof gutters drain properly, keeping the vegetation in your yard trim, and keeping swimming pools clean and well chlorinated. To report mosquito breeding, call the Environmental Services Department at 774-4500.

How to Protect Yourself
Try to stay indoors during dusk and dawn, which is when mosquitoes are most active.
Cover up by wearing shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors for long periods of time or during hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Apply an insect repellent that contains DEET. On children 2 to 12 years use an insect repellent that contains 10 percent or less DEET. Repellents may irritate the eyes and mouth so try not to apply them to the hands of children. For adults use products that contain no more than 35 percent DEET. Do not use DEET on infants or pregnant women.

How to Prevent Mosquito Breeding
Look around the outside of your house and get rid of any tin cans, jars, plastic containers, plant pots, old tires and any other containers that can hold stagnant water.
Properly dispose of old tires.
Make sure roof gutters drain properly.
Keep swimming pools clean and well chlorinated.
Store plastic wading pools, buckets, barrels and wheelbarrows upside down so that water cannot accumulate in them.
Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes at least once a week.
Aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
Keep your yard trimmed. Weeds, tall grass and shrubbery provide mosquitoes with shelter.
Use landscape as a way to prevent accumulation of stagnant water.

Last Weeks of School and Trash in City Parks

Everybody Pitch in to help!!


The School Year is winding down, however unfortunately the graffiti problems and increased trash in the Parks on the last week of school has become a big problem to the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department over the years.

The Department is asking the support of school administrators and especially those particular schools adjacent to city parks to help curtail the problem this year by keeping their eyes and ears open and by making school announcements at the schools that this type of behavior will not be accepted.

The campus police for the city’s three largest school districts along with the El Paso Police Department hope to ensure a great start to the summer for all area school children by being very active in various areas of the city.

Socorro School District - Last day of School - May 21

El Paso School District - Last day of School - June 4

Ysleta School District - Last day of School - June 9

El Paso Native Olivares Signs with St. Mary’s Women’s Soccer

Flower Mound native Davis; Apex, N.C., native Edwards; Grapevine native Jenkins; Carrollton native Kirch; San Antonio native Martin; Colleyville native Martin; El Paso native Olivares set to join the Rattlers next season

SAN ANTONIO—St. Mary’s University women’s soccer coach Corwyn Ritch announced on Friday the signing of seven student-athletes to national letters of intent to join the Rattlers, starting with the 2009-2010 season. Flower Mound native Brin Davis; Apex, N.C., native Mari Edwards; Grapevine native Averie Jenkins; Carrollton native Kirch; San Antonio native Carolyn Martin; Colleyville native Lauren Martin and El Paso native Annia Olivares will join the Rattlers starting in the fall.

Davis (5’4”, Fr., Flower Mound) was a three-year letterwinner as a midfielder for coach Wendy Flaherty. She earned first team all-district honoree and defensive player of the year. Off the field she was a member of the Honor Roll and Future Farmers of America. Davis played for coach Quen Willis’ Texas Spirit Soccer Club. She plans to be a pre-veterinary major at St. Mary’s.

Edwards (5’10”, Fr., Apex, N.C.) was a four-year letterwinner for coaches Danny Baker, Joshua Dear and Kevin Todd at Cypress Falls (Houston) High School and Apex High School. She had a 0.50 goals-against average as the starting goalkeeper last season. She helped lead Cypress Falls to a district championship and two regional championships. Off the field she was a member of the Honor Roll. She plans to major in general business.

Jenkins (5’3”, Fr., Grapevine) was an honorable mention all-district honoree as a midfielder for coach Ryan Davis’ team at Grapevine High School. She helped lead Grapevine to a district championship and two playoff appearances. Off the field she was a member of the Honor Roll. She plans to major in communications at St. Mary’s.

Kirch (5’7”, Fr., Carrollton) was a three-time all-district honoree at forward and midfielder for coach Eric Ramirez at Hebron High School. She earned first team all-district honors and was the team captain as a senior. Kirch was a three-sport standout, competing in soccer, cross country and track and field. She helped lead Hebron to three regional finals appearances. For the cross country team she was an all-state honoree and finished ninth at the state meet in 2005. She plans to major in nursing.

Carolyn Martin (5’9”, Fr., San Antonio) earned all-district honors twice as a defender for coach Erin Braun at Winston Churchill High School. She was also a two-year team captain. Off the field she was a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society and was an Academic All-District Honoree. She plans to major in Biology at St. Mary’s.

Lauren Martin (5’2”, Fr., Colleyville) was a two-sport athlete at Grapevine High School, competing in soccer and cross country. For coach Ryan Davis’ soccer team she was named first team All-District 5-5A as a midfielder/forward her senior year. She also received the leadership award. Martin helped lead Grapevine to three regional appearances, including two trips to the regional finals. Off the field she was a member of the Honor Roll, the Student Council and Students Standing Strong. She plans to major in marketing.

Olivares (5’6”, Fr., El Paso) was a four-sport standout at Loretto Academy, competing in soccer, basketball, track and field and volleyball. She served as the team captain for coach Marion Benett’s soccer team. She was an all-city pick in volleyball. Off the field she was an Honor Roll student and received an academic scholarship to Loretto Academy. She plans to major in pre-med at St. Mary’s

The Rattlers finished the 2008 season with a 5-12-2 overall record and 4-7-1 in Heartland Conference play, but over their last seven games they went 4-2-1, including a 1-1 tie against seventh-ranked Incarnate Word.

Manuel Acosta: Inspiration and Joie de Vivre' a panel discussion with Artists Gaspar Enriquez, Celia Alvarez Munoz, and Hal Marcus

The El Paso Museum of Art announces
'Manuel Acosta: Inspiration and Joie de Vivre'
a panel discussion with Artists Gaspar Enriquez,
Celia Alvarez Munoz, and Hal Marcus
Sunday May 17, 2009
2:00- 4:00 pm
EPMA Energy Auditorium


Please join us at the El Paso Museum of Art on Sunday, May 17, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. in the El Paso Energy Auditorium for 'Manuel Acosta: Inspiration and Joie de Vivre', a panel discussion with Artists Gaspar Enriquez, Celia Alvarez Munoz, and Hal Marcus. All three Artists knew Manuel Acosta personally and will contribute their own unique perspective of his art work, his contribution to the community, and his resistance to being labeled a Chicano Artist. Each Artist will speak about Manuel Acosta's aesthetic and context, how he influenced their work and inspired their own careers.

Acosta's charismatic persona made him a prominent feature on the El Paso social scene. His immensely popular 'posadas' and social gatherings from the ‘60’s through ‘80’s are still fondly remembered as some of the best the area has ever seen.

The Panel Discussion will last 45 minutes with time for questions. Afterwards, participants are invited to join the three artists in the gallery for an 'up close and personal' view and discussion of Acosta's work in the Temporary Gallery. Admission for the Manuel Acosta exhibition is waived for lecture attendees.

** Joie de Vivre: English translation 'The Joy of Living'


For information, please call (915) 532-1707.

Gov. Perry Appoints Four to Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has appointed four members to the Texas Appraiser
Licensing and Certification Board for terms to expire Jan. 31, 2011. The
board adopts rules for the licensing and certification of real estate
appraisers in the state.

Walker Beard of El Paso is a partner at Wilkinson, Pendergras and Beard LP.
He is a member and past president of the Appraisal Institute and Certified
Commercial Member Institute. He is also a board member of the Institute of
Real Estate Management and Foundation Appraisers Coalition of Texas, and a
member of the Rotary Club of West El Paso. Beard served in the Texas
National Guard and received a bachelor's degree from California Polytechnic
State University. He replaces Larry Kokel of Walburg.

Danny R. Perkins of Houston is a principal at ESC Polytech Consultants Inc.
He is chairman of the Hobby Airport Area Management District Board. Perkins
received a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in transportation
planning and management from Texas Southern University, and a doctorate
degree in civil engineering from Columbus University. He is being
reappointed.

James B. Ratliff of Garland is an appraiser at Ratliff Appraiser Service. He
is a former mayor of Garland and a member of the Texas Municipal Power
Agency Board of Directors. He is also a member of the Texas and Lake Cities
associations of Realtors, and the National Association of Independent Fee
Appraisers. Ratliff received a bachelor's degree from East Texas State
University and a master's degree in finance from the University of North
Texas. He is being reappointed.

Donna L. Walz of Lubbock is a retired branch manager of Downey Savings and
Loan. She is a past volunteer at the Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock. Walz
received a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University. She is being
reappointed.

Night of the Dragon

The El Paso Museum of Art announces 3rd Thursday’s
Night of the Dragon
May 21, 2009 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm

3rd Thursday’s at the El Paso Museum of Art brings together an eclectic crowd for an evening of sophistication, socializing and art on the third Thursday of each month and has become one of El Paso’s hottest events! Each gathering is recommended for age 18+ and features an ultra-heightened sense of entertainment unlike anything ever done in El Paso.


Night of the Dragon
Thursday, May 21, 2009 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
To RSVP please call 532.1707

Featuring
Great Chinese music, food, beverages, and a surprise live cultural performance! Come relax and mingle with friends, old and new. This event is supported by Airport Printing and What’s Up Magazine and is in conjunction with the El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department's Celebrate our Heritage - China, honoring Chinese contributions to the El Paso area.

$7 donation at the door for each Museum Member
$10 donation at the door for each Non Member
Join the Museum as a member and get in FREE!


Parking is available at the Convention Center or the Camino Real Hotel.


For more information and to RSVP please call (915) 532-1707

Leisure Services Division – Notice of New Classes

CLASS: Tennis for children to adults
Please provide your own tennis racquet

WHERE: Gary Del Palacio Recreation Center
3001 Parkwood ~ 79925
Phone: 629-7312

WHEN: Morning, evenings, & weekend classes for adults & teens, and children ages 6 to 12 years old.

FEE: Classes available for children and adults for $20 / month. For one day try out class fee is $5 and racquet / balls are provided.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CLASS: Aerobic-Boot Camp

HOW: Class drills include running, walking, agility ladder,
Hurdles training and toning exercises

WHERE: Vista Del Valle Park by Multipurpose Center
9031 Viscount ~ 79925
Phone: 598-1155

WHEN: Monday & Wednesday from 7:30-8:30 pm

FEE: $20/month – Please register at Multipurpose Center

MAY IS NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH

Child Protective Services Celebrates Foster Families with Free Picnic

To celebrate people who make a difference in El Paso, Child Protective Services (CPS) will have its 3rd Annual Foster Care Picnic on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at Memorial Park (1701 N. Copia Street) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Last year in El Paso County, there were 569 children in foster care.
“We want to recognize the hard work that the foster parents do for our children in care,” said Priscilla Estrello, CPS Foster/Adoption Supervisor. “A picnic allows children in care to engage in a healthy, nurturing outing during their placements.”
The picnic will include free food, door prizes and games.
More than 200 are expected to attend the picnic including foster families associated with CPS, the Bair Foundation, El Paso Center for Children, A World For Children, Methodist Children Home and Lutheran Social Services.

WHAT: 3rd Annual Foster Care Picnic

WHEN: May 16, 2009 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE: Memorial Park, 1701 N. Copia, El Paso, TX, 79930

WHY: To celebrate/recruit El Paso foster families and promote positive awareness of foster care.


IMPORTANT NOTE: Only foster children under “permanent managing conservatorship” of the State may be photographed.

For attending media outlets wanting photo/video, please contact Priscilla Estrello at 204-3120 or Luis Zamarripa at 471-6620, to verify media availability of specific foster children.



FACTS ABOUT FOSTER HOMES

Provide 24-hour temporary care to children in their home

Help children heal and meet their physical, emotional, cultural, educational, medical and social needs

Work with the agency and the birth family towards family reunification or, if return home is not possible, work towards another permanency plan

Provide children with daily care, nurturance, and supervision

Advocate for children in their schools and communities

Inform the children’s caseworkers about adjustments to the home, school and community

Provide a positive role model to birth families and help children learn life skills

May become approved as an adoptive family

Endangered Species Day at El Paso Zoo

Zoo focuses on how to help animals through every day actions

The El Paso Zoo will observe national Endangered Species Day on Tuesday, May 19, by presenting a report on the status of endangered species at the Zoo and how people can help by making informed choices at home and when they go to the store and purchase food and other every day items.

Over 20 endangered species currently live at the El Paso Zoo including the Mexican Wolf, Spider Monkey, Asian Elephant, Sumatran Orangutan, Siamang, Amur Leopard, Lion-tailed Macaque, Bali Mynah, Mauritius Pink Pigeon, Hooded Crane and Malayan Tiger. The Education Department will offer a workshop on the status of endangered species at the Zoo for volunteers from 9am to 11am in the El Paso Water Utilities Discovery Center and have programs on the hour for the public in the Center at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

“Endangered Species Day asks everyone in the United States to take a day to contemplate the natural world and the wildlife that inhabit it," said Rick LoBello, Education Curator for the Zoo. "At the El Paso Zoo, we are using May 19, 2009, to highlight concerns about endangered species by offering stories of hope on how individuals can make a difference in helping them.

Learn how you can make a difference!

WHAT: "Endangered Species Day 2009"
WHEN: Tuesday, May 19th
TIME: Noon-4:00pm
WHERE: El Paso Zoo, El Paso Water Utilities Discovery Center - 4001 E. Paisano
INFO: 521-1850

Voter ID Bill Heads to the House Floor

AUSTIN—Today the Elections Committee of the Texas House of Representatives passed the Senate version of a Voter Identification bill out of their committee. The bi-partisan bill garnered support from both Democratic and Republican committee members.

Polls show that nearly 70 percent of Texans strongly believe that showing valid photo identification should be required before being allowed to vote. In fact, many Texans believe that a valid driver's license is required to vote and are shocked to learn that one can currently vote without a valid photo ID.

As the bill moves to the House floor, Democrat legislators will be looking for procedural "points of order" to prevent them from being held accountable to their constituents--it is up to Elections Committee Chairman Todd Smith (R-Euless) and Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) to ensure this bill has a full debate and vote on the floor. Texans want real voter ID and are particularly counting on Smith as the House Sponsor to strengthen, not weaken, this important bill on the floor. The final legislation must include what Texans want: valid Photo ID to vote, an increase in penalties for fraud without creating loopholes such as same-day voter registration, and immediate effect to ensure that our elections are free and fair.

Texas Republican Party Chairman Benkiser is calling on all House members, Republican and Democrat, to continue the bi-partisan spirit of protecting our electoral system and support this bill. "A watered-down voter ID bill won’t do. The majority of the Elections Committee support this critical legislation as do the majority of Texas voters. I am certain other Democrats will join Republicans on the House floor and support real voter ID in Texas elections," Chairman Benkiser said.

TWC Cautions UI Claimants to Beware of Fee-for-Filing Scams

AUSTIN - The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) warns Unemployment Insurance
(UI) claimants to be aware of unscrupulous business operators who may try to
charge a fee to file unemployment claims. Filing for benefits through TWC is
and always has been free.

Claimants who sign on for so-called fee-for-filing scams could later
discover unemployment claims were never filed on their behalf. They also may
have given their Social Security numbers to someone they thought was a TWC
employee.

Claimants may receive UI information online through www.texasworkforce.org
or by using the e-mail form found on the Web site.

TWC wants to ensure that no one is taken advantage of by someone posing as a
TWC staff member or by unscrupulous business operators, particularly UI
claimants who need every bit of their benefits during this difficult
economic time.

UI claimants also are reminded that TWC unemployment staff never perform
home visits. Claimants should only give personal information when filing for
benefits online at www.texasworkforce.org or on the UI Tele-Center phone
filing system.

Do not pay for a government service that is free.

The UI program, funded through employer taxes, provides temporary,
partial-income replacement to workers who have lost their jobs through no
fault of their own. TWC administers and oversees the collection of taxes
from employers and the payment of UI benefits to qualified claimants.
To report possible fraud, call the TWC Fraud and Program Abuse Hotline at
(800) 252-3642.

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas
employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC
and the programs it offers in unison with its network of local workforce
development boards, call (512) 463-8556 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.
Texas Workforce Commission . 512-463-8942 . http://www.texasworkforce.org .
Equal Opportunity Employer Relay Texas . 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) .
1-800-735-2988 (Voice)

Parks and Recreation Memorial Tree Program

A great way to honor an upcoming High School or College Graduate

WHO: City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department

WHAT: Memorial Tree Program

WHEN: Available to Public Anytime

WHERE: City Hall – Parks and Recreation Offices – 6th Floor


The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department maintains a Memorial Tree Program, which provides the general public with an opportunity to have a tree planted in memory or in honor of a loved one, for a certain fee.

The gift of a tree is a unique way to celebrate, honor or memorialize a special individual, group or event, while adding a long-lasting aesthetic and environmental benefit to the entire community. An acknowledgement letter is sent to those that purchase a tree. A certificate suitable for framing is sent to the honoree and family and is posted on the Parks and Recreation web site.

The various levels to buy a Memorial Tree are:

$75 Seedlings

$200 Tree

$350 Specimen Tree

$600 Grove (a group of trees)

The Memorial Tree form is available on the Parks and Recreation web site at www.elpasotexas.gov/parks. A recent donor for the Tree program was Tom Angelos for June and Ray Hermansen.

SKY BOULDER PUBLIC ART UNVEILING

MAY 11, 2009, 5:00pm-5:30pm
Corner of Alabama and Harrison


The City of El Paso Public Art Program invites the public to the dedication and unveiling of Sky Boulder, a sculptural park designed by local artist Willie Ray Parish, located on the corner of Alabama and Harrison, on Monday, May 11, 2009, 5:00pm-5:30pm.

About the Project
As part of an open space enhancement project in district 2, two percent (2%) of funds were set aside for the design, fabrication, and installation of permanent public art. Upon review by an artist selection panel, Public Art Committee, and the Cultural Affairs Advisory Board, artist Willie Ray Parish was selected from a pre-qualified group of artists to provide an iconic gathering place for community residents and visitors alike.

About the Design by Willie Ray Parish
Transforming what was once a drainage dam into a sculptural landscape, Sky Boulder Park brings together 5 abstract elements: Sky Boulder, Hepgrind, Mogul, Divider, and Ballustrade.

Sky Boulder serves as a metaphor for the tenuous state of the earth as it hangs in an environmental balance. As the largest and most dramatic sculpture in the park, it is to serve as a magnet for visitors onto the site.

Mogul, Hepgrind, Divider, and Ballustrade were all designed to inspire the creativity and art of local skateboarders. Marks left by the public, including skaters, are intended to alter and gradually transform the patina of the sculptures.

About the Artist

El Paso artist Willie Ray Parish received a Bachelor in Fine Arts from the University of Mississippi and a Masters in Fine Arts from the Otis Art Institute of Los Angeles. As a metal and wood sculptor, his work has been exhibited nationwide, gaining highly regarded recognition. Parish is currently a sculpture professor at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and is founder and Director of the Border Art Residency, a foundation based in La Union, New Mexico that provides a laboratory environment for national and international artists in La Union, NM.

Healthy Hearts with Parks Fun Walks

A great event for Health and Wellness by the City


WHO: City of El Paso Parks and Recreation

WHAT: Healthy Hearts with Parks Fun Walks

WHEN: Saturday, May 9, 2009 at 7:30 a.m.

WHERE: Marty Robbins Park, 11600 Vista Del Sol


Healthy Hearts with Parks Fun Walks will have their first official walk of the year on Saturday, May 9, 2009 at Marty Robbins Park, 11600 Vista Del Sol.
The event starts at 7:30 a.m. and there is a one time registration fee of $5 for the walks. After the paid registration fee all future walks are free of charge.

The Walks are held each month at a different park location to enable the participants to see the various park venues in the city.

Senior Games Award Banquet

The El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host the Senior Games Banquet to honor all of the participants from the week long games at 6:00 p.m. on Friday May 8, 2009 at the Multipurpose Recreation Center, 9031 Viscount Blvd.

The banquet is also a way to induct the newest member of the El Paso Senior Games Hall of Fame which will be announced on Friday to the always packed house.

The banquet is open to the public for only a nominal fee for the dinner.

Painting Pen Women

The City of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department
City Hall Community Exhibits Program presents
1st Floor City Hall
The “Painting Pen Women”
On display May 4 - 29, 2009


The Border Chapter of The National League of American Pen Women will display their artwork in the City Hall Community Exhibits space, located in the First Floor of City Hall. City Hall hours of operation for viewing the display are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

“The National League of American Pen Women was organized in 1897 and has its national headquarters in Washington, DC. Its objective is to conduct and promote educational work of professional standard and engage in charitable work in the areas of Art, Letters, and Music.

Prospective members are invited by local branches. When applying for membership proof of professional standards have to be submitted by various means. The Border Branch was founded in 1978, and it is for the first time that eight of its local members are showing their combined art work here in El Paso. Several of the members had been juried into the Pen Women's national shows and also won awards on that level.

The paintings shown are using different media: oil, mixed media, water media, pastels and encaustic. Traditional as well as contemporary work will be displayed."

The public is cordially invited to attend a Reception on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Refreshments will be served. Admission is FREE.

For additional information about the artwork on display you may contact the Border Chapter of The National League of American Pen Women at (915)833-0454 or (915)581-4737.

YWCA Exhibit Tour Offered by Susan Goodman Novick

El Paso Museum of History
May 30, 2009
1:30 PM to 2:30 PM

The El Paso Museum of History is pleased to announce that on Saturday, May 30th, 2009 from 1:30 to 2:30 pm, Susan Goodman Novick will host a tour of the museum’s new temporary exhibit, “El Paso del Norte Region, YWCA at 100.” Ms. Novick not only wrote the exhibit text for this commemorative exhibit but also assembled many of the artifacts on display from the archives of the El Paso YWCA.

Ms. Novick is a fourth-generation El Pasoan who returned home in August, 2001 after spending 16 years in Washington, DC. In 1997, while working as a development officer at the National Academy of Sciences, she received a Master of Library Sciences degree with a concentration in archives and special collections from the Catholic University of America. Please make the effort and enjoy a extraordinary tour given from the perspective of one of the creators.

For more information contact the museum at 915-351-3588 or taylorsl@elpasotexas.gov.

El Paso Museum of History
510 N. Santa Fe St.
El Paso, TX 79901
www.elpasotexas.gov/history

El Paso Rose Garden Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Event to showcase one of few Rose Gardens in United States

WHO: El Paso Parks and Recreation Department, El Paso Rose Garden Society and Texas AgriLife Extension Service Master Gardeners

WHAT: 50th Anniversary of El Paso Rose Garden

WHEN: Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day)
1:00 p.m.

WHERE: El Paso Rose Garden
1702 N. Copia

The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department, which has managed the El Paso Rose Garden for 50 years, will celebrate that anniversary with several other important partners on May 10 at 1:00 p.m.

The celebration ceremony will have Mayor John Cook as guest speaker. The Garden has gone through major renovations over the years giving the Garden a water fall, a stage area for weddings and much more.

The Garden is one of only 100 certified Rose Gardens in the U.S. with over 2,500 rose bushes and 500 different varieties. The garden continues to grow each year. There will be a walking tour for those interested after the ceremony.

Sizzliní Summer Auction, 2009

KCOS - TV PRESENTS
"Sizzliní Summer Auction, 2009"

Call for Business Donations

KCOS-TVís annual summer auction begins June 18th and we want to showcase your business. Let the KCOS ìSizzliní Summer Auctionî speak for you! We invite you to participate in this great opportunity by donating your merchandise or service and, in return, we will tell our viewers who you are and where you are locatedÖWE PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT! Television viewers in West Texas, Southern New Mexico, and Cd. Juarez watch our Auction every year, and it is your name they will remember when a bid is phoned in on the item or service you donated.


For more information on how to donate your items contact:

Alicia Meier, Director-Special Projects
915-590-1313 or ameier@kcostv.org
KCOS TV
9050 Viscount Blvd, Suite A440

May is Elder Abuse Prevention month

“It’s Everyone’s Business”

May is Elder Abuse Prevention month and Older Americans Month, and Adult Protective Services (APS) is reminding Texans that stopping elder abuse is truly everyone’s responsibility.
No one knows exactly how many older Texans are being abused, neglected, or financially exploited. Many victims are too embarrassed to ask for help, and their suffering can be shrouded by secrecy.
As our population ages, statistics show the problem is a growing concern: nationwide studies estimate that three to five million seniors age 65 and older have experienced abuse, with only one in five cases reported.
In 2008, Texas APS, a division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), completed almost 70,000 investigations of abuse, neglect or exploitation involving adults living at home. Of those, more than 48,000 cases were confirmed, with most cases including physical or medical neglect.
In these cases, it was often family members – adult children, spouses or grandchildren – who were the perpetrators.
“Everyone needs to be diligent to ensure vulnerable adults are free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation,” said Patrick Turley, El Paso’s Regional Director for Adult Protective Services. “Isolation places vulnerable adults at risk. That’s why elder abuse prevention is everyone’s business.”
This marks the fourth year of APS’ It’s Everyone’s Business campaign. It’s a statewide effort to educate Texans about the pervasive problem of abuse, neglect and exploitation of the elderly and adults with disabilities, and to encourage citizens to get involved in making a positive difference.
Throughout May, APS employees across Texas will distribute brochures and information kits, as well as participate in conferences, information fairs, and ceremonies honoring those who work on behalf of vulnerable adults.
In El Paso, these events will be held to raise awareness for elder abuse prevention:

May 5 Elder Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation
9 a.m., El Paso City Council regular meeting, 1 Civic Center Plaza
Region 10 APS staff will join El Paso County Attorney’s office and other community partners in recognizing May as Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. Contact: APS Community Initiatives Specialist Rene Hobson, (915) 834-5772.


May 5 APS Cinco de Mayo Food Drive & Fiesta
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3rd floor of Franklin State Building parking garage, 401 E. Franklin
APS staff throws a fiesta for a good cause! The rooftop celebration will have food, music, folklorico dance and loteria prizes. Canned food and money will be collected to benefit the West Texas Food Bank, Rescue Mission and Child Crisis Center. Contact: APS Facility Investigator Ray Marquez, (915) 834-5753.

May 21 Aging to Perfection Senior Expo
9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Judson F. Williams Convention Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza
A positive image of growing older is presented at this expo which offers entertainment, health screenings and souvenirs – all for free! Contact: Yvette M. Lugo, Rio Grande Area Agency on Aging Director, (915)533-0998 ext. 116, yvettel@riocog.org

May 21 Extreme Weather Task Force Fan Drive Kickoff
11 a.m., Judson F. Williams Convention Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza (during Senior Expo)
The EWTF’s Summer Fan Drive & Hot Weather Safety Media Conference kicks off the annual fan drive geared at providing free fans to the elderly and needy families. Contact: APS Community Initiatives Specialist Rene Hobson, (915) 834-5772.


The message is simple but important. If you believe an elderly person is being abused, neglected, or exploited, report it by calling 1-800-252-5400.
For more information about preventing elder abuse, and to download public awareness materials, visit www.everyonesbusiness.org.
APS Facts and Figures

The mission of APS is to protect the elderly and adults with disabilities from abuse, neglect, and exploitation by investigating, and providing or arranging for services necessary to alleviate or prevent further maltreatment.

Texas has more than 2.3 million residents 65 or older (73,199 in El Paso County.) Nearly one out of five people have a disability, and almost half of those older than 65 have a disability.

In 2008, APS investigations completed 68,683 investigations (2,681 in El Paso County) of abuse, neglect, or exploitation involving adults living at home. Of these, more than 48,380 (1,740 in El Paso County) were confirmed. As a comparison, in 2007 APS completed 64,459 investigations (2,629 in El Paso County) and confirmed 45,934 cases (1,641 in El Paso County.)

In the last decade, the number of in-home cases investigated by APS has more than doubled.

APS serves those 65 or older, and those 18 to 64 with a disabling condition.

Texas KIDS COUNT: “Our Border, Our Future"

FRIDAY, MAY 8: CPPP TO PRESENT 2009 BORDER KIDS COUNT DATA IN EL PASO

WHAT: Texas KIDS COUNT: “Our Border, Our Future”
Release of 2009 Border KIDS COUNT Data Reports, which include data on health, poverty, population growth, and family economic security for El Paso and border-area children.

WHO: El Paso County Commissioner Pct. 2 Veronica Escobar
Dr. Frances Deviney, Texas KIDS COUNT Director
Kymberlie Quong Charles, Texas Voice for Health Reform Coordinator

WHEN: Friday, May 8, from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: La Fe Cultural & Technology Center
721 South Ochoa – Rear Building
El Paso, Texas 79901

WHY: To discuss well-being of El Paso and border-area children and compare to well-being of children elsewhere in the state.

R.S.V.P. by Wednesday, May 6, to CPPP Outreach Director Lonny Stern at stern@cppp.org or (512) 320-0222 ext. 107.

The Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP) is a non-profit, non-partisan policy institute dedicated to improving the economic and social conditions of low- and moderate-income Texans. You can learn more about CPPP at http://www.cppp.org.

CPPP is home to the Texas KIDS COUNT project and to Texas Voice for Health Reform. You can learn more about these projects at http://www.cppp.org/kidscount or http://www.texasvoiceforhealthreform.org.