Walker County Journal 07/25/13 Issue

July 25, 2013, 2013 • walkercountyJournal.com • walker county Journal

the area’s most interesting publicationJuly 25, 2013 volume 3 • issue 23

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(L to R) Walker County Commissioners B.J. Gaines (Pct 1); Ronnie White (Pct 2); County Judge Danny Pierce; Bobby Warren (Pct 3); and Tim Paulsel (Pct 4). Walker County Commissioners Court has been working over next year’s budget for the month of July for the most part. They received budget requests from department heads, inquiring about changes and additional requests first. That has been followed up with budget workshops by County Judge Danny Pierce and the Commis-sioners. Saying they understand that personal taxpayer budgets are tight, they are looking at every possible option to cut expenses to keep tax rates at a minimum and avoid significant increases in the tax rate. Taxpayers enjoyed 10 years without a tax increase and then this year received one from both the City of Huntsville and Walker County. Look for more information about Walker County’s Budget Challenges in this issue of Walker County Journal on page 5.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERSSHARPEN PENCILS, LOOKFOR BUDGET SOLUTIONS

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©TRACY SORENSEN PHOTO

Immigration & Nationality Law

~ Employment & Family Based Immigration ~~ Citizenship & Naturalization ~

~ Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals ~

Audrey R. Biggarattorney at law

Call 936.291.3801 or Visit www.abiggarlaw.comOne Financial Plaza, Suite 250-E, Huntsville, Texas

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walker county Journal • walkercountyJournal.com • July 25, 2013

the area’s most interesting publication• serving walker & surrounDing counties •

Walker County Journal is designed to connect community members with FREE personal want-ads, upcoming events listings, short informative articles and columns. Readers are encouraged to submit ads, news of their organiza-tion, upcoming events and photos via www.WalkerCountyJournal.com.

Free Want-Ads are for individuals selling personal items. Limit ads to 25 words. Ads for pets are free, but pets must be given away or sold for $25 or less. Ads for livestock, hay and farm equipment are free. Ads for real estate for sale by owner are free.

Business want-ads are $10 and can include up to 30 words. Business want-ads include rental property & property for rent, including rooms for rent; pets with a selling price of more than $25; any service that you might provide, including babysitting, housecleaning, handy-man, etc.; any real estate that is NOT for sale by owner.

Want-ads are run on a space-available ba-sis. Publisher reserves the right to decline or not publish any ad. All paid ads must be paid in advance. Rates are $10 per ad per is-sue. Repeat ads are $32 for four (4) consecu-tive issues or $72 for twelve (12) consecutive issues. Payment must be made in full in advance by Noon Friday, preceding the fol-lowing Thursday’s publication. We accept MC, VISA, Discover, Cash and Check. Please mail payment or bring by WCJ/T Media office.

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SUBMIT WANT-ADS BYWebsite:

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PO Box 149 • Huntsville, TX 77342Drop-Off:

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want-aDs DepartmentsNEWS/INFORMATION

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COMMUNITY CALENDARSubmit Events via Website:


OPINION / LETTERS TO EDITORSubmit via Website:

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[email protected]

STAFFMelanie Thibodeaux

cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (936) 581-1042Wade Thibodeaux

cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (936) 581-5161

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before following Thursday’s publication

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AD SALESoffice . . . . . . . . . . . . . (936) 581-1042

Published by: T MediaPO Box 149 Huntsville, TX 77342-0149

Office Location:122 Rice Lane

Huntsville, TX 77320(936) 291-0870

TracyM.

Sorensen

~Attorney at Law~

Criminal LawDWI Defense

Felonies • Misdemeanors

936.291.65651010 University Ave • Huntsville

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FREE CLASSES FOR DEPUTY VOTER REGISTRARS SLATEDWalker County Tax Assessor-Collector is holding classes throughout the summer for Volunteer Deputy Registrars. They promote voter registration most commonly at community events and within their own social net-works, as well as distribute voter registration applications. Sessions are from 2 to 4pm at Walker County Annex Room 101, on August 14th and September 18th. 936-436-4959

OUTDOOR EXPLORER PROGRAM FOR KIDSThe City of Huntsville is partnering with Texas Parks and Wildlife Depart-ment to learn basic safety for biking, hiking and kayaking. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon by exploring the State Park with bikes and kayaks provided by the City, free of charge. Class sizes are limited to 20 and pre-registration is required. Program dates are 7/27; 8/24 and 9/28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Entry fees to the park are $5 for adults and ages 12 and under are free.

SPANISH CLASSES CONTINUE AT LIBRARYStarting August 13, 2013, the Huntsville Public Library will be continuing its Spanish class series, Beginning Spanish classes Tues and Thurs from 2:00pm – 3:15pm, and Advanced Spanish classes Tues from 3:30pm - 4:45pm. The class-es will be a continuation of the classes held this spring. Beginners welcome. Space is limited and registration is required. Info/registration: Beth Williamson at 936-295-3170 or Tosha Gibbs 936-291-5472.

SUBMIT EVENTS FOR CONSIDERATION IN JOURNAL EVENTS TO:[email protected]

Curves Complete Logo (US)Font: Adobe Garamond (Bold Italic)

Color: 525, 2405, 1375, and 376

936-295-3900 279 Hwy 75N * Huntsville

UPCOMINGJOURNAL SCORE FOR SENIORS!Grab your favorite team jersey and huddle up at the Walker County Fair-grounds on Thursday, September 26th from 6 to 9 pm for “Score For Seniors”. This sports themed fundraiser helps continue the Meals on Wheels program and keeps the Senior Center operating. Steak dinner, live music, live and silent auctions. Tickets are $25 and tables start at $200, with table service and more at $500. Call the Walker County Senior Center at 936-295-6151 to reserve your sponsorship, table, tickets or donate to the silent or live auctions.

ONE-NIGHT HEALTHY COOKING SCHOOLTexas Agri-Life Extension Service will hold a one night Healthy Cooking School called Dinner Tonight! The school will be held Tuesday, July 30th and will begin at 6pm. All participants will receive a cookbook, a gift bag, and a chance to win door prizes. The cost of the cooking school is $20. Pre-registration is required to attend and closes one week prior to the event. To register, go online to http://www.eventbrite.com , search Dinner To-night, and select the location you would like to attend. For in person registration, call 936-435-2426.

LADIES NIGHT OUT!The Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce will host their 4th Annual Diva Night which is a Ladies Night Out program featuring vendors, entertainment, hors d’ouvres and beverages served up just for the ladies of Walker County. Sponsored by Wiesner Huntsville, the event to be held at the LSC Ballroom at SHSU requires $35 advance purchase tickets. For info, con-tact the Chamber at 936-295-8113.


COMMUNITY CALENDARThe listings in the WCJ Community Calendar are submitted by organizations or individu-als or they are dates from public calendars of organizations and municipalities. There is no charge for these listings.

Readers are encouraged to submit their organization’s activities and events via the WCJ website at

www.WalkerCountyJournal.com.Or they can be emailed to

[email protected]

Thu | Jul 25, 2013 12pm Huntsville Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Grand Buffet 5:15pm Huntsville Chamber Business After Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pita Pit on Sam Houston AveFri | Jul 26, 2013 6pm Main Street Music Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walker Co Courthouse Lawn on University 6:30pm SH Museum Lecture: Death & Dying in 20th Century. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walker Education CenterSat | Jul 27, 2013 9am First Day to File for Huntsville City Council/Mayoral Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville City Hall 8am Huntsville Downtown Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University Ave on the Square 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 2pm Kim Lehmann Storyteller: Spinning songs & stories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville Public LibraryTue | Jul 30, 2013 5:30pm HISD Budget Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hawkins Admin BldgWed | Jul 31, 2013 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 9am Hair & Rope Braiding for Kids/Adults: SH Museum Grounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sam Houston Memorial Museum Grounds 10:30am Huntsville Public Library Pre-School Story HourThu | Aug 1, 2013 12pm Huntsville Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Grand Buffet 6pm HMH Diabetes Support Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville Memorial HospitalFri | Aug 2, 2013 6pm Main Street Music Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walker Co Courthouse Lawn on UniversitySat | Aug 3, 2013 8am Huntsville Downtown Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University Ave on the Square 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 6pm Walker County Emergency Personnel Appreciation Dinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Walker County Storm ShelterTue | Aug 6, 2013 6pm Huntsville City Council Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville City HallWed Aug 7, 2013 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 10:30am Huntsville Public Library Pre-School Story HourThu | Aug 8, 2013 7:30am Huntsville-Walker Co Chamber Small Bus Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Golden Corral Restaurant 12pm Huntsville Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Grand Buffet 5:45pm Huntsville Arts Commission Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wynne Home Arts Center Meeting RoomFri | Aug 9, 2013 8:45am Genealogy Weekend w/ Walker Co Genealogy Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville Public Library 6pm Main Street Music Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walker Co Courthouse Lawn on UniversitySat | Aug 10, 2013 8am Huntsville Downtown Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University Ave on the Square 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 8:45am Genealogy Weekend w/ Walker Co Genealogy Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville Public Library 3pm Crabbs Prairie VFD Ice Cream Social . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CPVFD StationMon | Aug 12, 2013 9am Walker Co Commissioners Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Walker Co CourthouseWed | Aug 14, 2013 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill Mall 10:30am Huntsville Public Library Pre-School Story HourThu | Aug 15, 2013 12pm Huntsville Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Grand Buffet 5:30pm Huntsville Diva Night sponsored by Wiesner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SHSU’s LSC Ballroom 6pm Huntsville ISD Board Meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HISD Administration BldgFri | Aug 16, 2013 5pm Widow & Widowers Support Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3010 Montgomery Road (Second Step), Huntsville 6pm Main Street Music Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walker Co Courthouse Lawn on UniversitySat | Aug 17, 2013 8am Huntsville Downtown Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .University Ave on the Square 8am Walker County Farmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Hill MallTue | Aug 20, 2013 11am HMH Osteoporosis Support Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Huntsville Memorial Hospital Conference Room 6pm Huntsville City Council Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huntsville City Hall


NEWSJOURNAL

NOW ACCEPTINGRESUMéSfor Fall 2013

Publicity & PublicationIntern

Production & Administration

InDesign • Photoshop • Illustrator • Office

Melanie Thibodeaux(963) 581-1042 • [email protected]

Interviews scheduled for mid-August

If you are interested in publicity and promotion and/or have an interest in community publishing, this internship may be for you. Some writing, some production and some aspects of publication administration. Flexible hours. Self-motivators willing to work 5 to 10 hours/wk will learn a lot!

ANNOUNCEMENT: COLLEGE STUDENTS

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(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — Two days of budget workshops in the Walker County Commissioners Court may have resulted in more questions than resolutions, had any more than one citizen been present to hear the discussions. However, WCJ has a synopsis for those who are concerned about the bulging budget that was forecast by many last year when the Commissioners passed a tax rate increase of 15% or 8.43 cents over the effective tax rate, after a decade of no increases.

While budget discussions are still ongoing and the commissioners con-tinue to whittle away at the requests from all of the departments, the general concensus was that the county employees needed at least a modest 3% increase in their wages, as they have not had one in four years. There was some discussion about whether or not commissioners would vote to include elected officials in that raise, and at writing that issue had not been resolved. The difference in including the elected and appointed officials and not including them is about 12% of the total increase, which is about $400,000.

Another large cost consideration is EMS. As services provided at Hunts-ville Memorial Hospital grow, the number of ambulance assisted patient transfers from HMH to larger medical facilities is decreasing. These paid contractual transfers are cutting into the income of EMS which ulti-mately offsets the cost of 911 emergency calls. While it is a confusing formula under which Huntsville-Walker County EMS operates, there is a significant portion of next year’s working budget deficit which belongs to EMS, initially projected at about $600,000. EMS Director John Nabors was on hand in the workshops to help explain the numbers, the process and how these numbers differ from those in years past.

A budget consideration weighing heavy on the court is ensuring that there are enough resources for the opening of the new jail. While the construction of the jail has been funded with a portion of this year’s tax increase, there is an increased expense in the operation of the new jail, specifically in the hiring of new employees. Sheriff Clint McRae and Jail Administrator Steve Fisher worked with the commissioners to reduce a figure of about $528,000 to about $389,000.

While there are numerous other items from all county funded depart-ments and organizations, the employee raises, EMS and new jail opera-tion are the largest issues that the court must deal with. The overage in budget requests initially totaled over $1.7 million. The commission-ers will continue to work with department heads to get those numbers down as low as possible. There is, however, the possibility of a tax in-crease for the second year in a row, for which public hearings would be required.

Budget workshops have continued this week following regular Com-missioners Court sessions and throughout the week. Watch WCJ for more information.

OVERDUE SALARY INCREASES, EMS LOSSES, NEW JAIL OPENING ALL WEIGHING HEAVY ON BUDGET FOR COUNTY FY 2013-2014

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Kari FrenchWalker County ClerkCustomer Service is Priority

POLITICAL ADVERTISING PAID BY KARI FRENCH

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H


NEWSJOURNAL

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — The Walker County Democratic Party has already ready started meeting with prospective Democratic candidates inter-ested in running for, or finding out about running for a political office for the 2014 election.

Anyone interested in being a candidate (or anyone interested in learn-ing more about seeking a political office), or knows of someone who is interested in being a candidate, should call Cindy Blaylock, Walker County Democratic Chair, 936-662-2325.

Now is the time to let the Walker County Democratic Party know. They will be meeting individually with candidates over the next several weeks.

They are looking to make 2014 another Blue Year and look forward to an exciting campaign season. http://www.walkercountydemocrats.org

WALKER COUNTY DEMOCRATSSEEKING ALL THOSE INTERESTEDIN RUNNING FOR MARCH ‘14LOCAL OFFICE PRIMARIES

T M E D I A P H O T O G R A P H Y by M E L A N I E T H I B O D E A U X

P I C T U R E P E R F E C T .

Melanie Schoettle Thibodeaux(936) 581-1042

P.O. Box 149 | Huntsville, TX [email protected]

Whether a once-in-a-lifetime event or a family gathering, make it unforgettable by capturing it for eternity. Your location or one of the beautiful historic venues in the area. Outdoors. Indoors. Easy. Affordable. Experienced.

LIFE EVENTS | PORTRAITS | COMMERCIAL


NEWSJOURNAL

Show Your Patriotism!Help with the Huntsville Lions Club

2013 Flag ProjectThirteen times each year we display more than 300 flags! We also put out flags around the Walker County Courthouse on special occasions. We take great pride in our Flag Project, but we need funds to maintain and create new flag stand holes, purchase new flags and poles, and replace many of the worn out and tattered flags that have served for many years. In addition to the Flag Project, your Huntsville Lions Club supports the fol-lowing groups and activities:

High School Student ScholarshipsEyeglasses for needy local School Children

Established Local Charities • Lions Eye BankTexas Lions Camp • Other State, National & International Charities

SHSU Endowed Scholarship • Walker County Fair Assn

We are once again seeking sponsors for ourannual Flag Project. Your contirubtion of $25 or more will

help ensure that United States and Texas flags will be proudly displayed in downtown Huntsville on these dates:MLK, Jr. Day • Presidents Day • Texas Independence Day

Walker County Fair • San Jacinto Day • Armed Forces DayMemorial Day • Flag Day • Independence Day

Labor Day • Columbus Day • Election Day • Veteran’s Day

p Yes! I want to assist Lions Club with this project!

Donated by: ____________________________________________________________________ Donated Amount $_________________

Address: _____________________________________________________ City: _____________________ State: ____ Zip: ___________

Email Address: __________________________________________________________________ Lion: ____________________________>>PLEASE MAIL TO: 2013 Flag Project • Huntsville Lions Club • PO Box 67 • Huntsville, TX 77342-0067<<

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — The City of Huntsville has posted notice of filing for positions on the November 5, 2013 ballot. The state of Texas dates are Saturday, July 27 through Monday August 26, 2013. City Secretary Lee Woodward acknowledged members of the public may have questions about the responsibilities of Councilmembers.

“The City Secretary’s office provides candidates’ kits, which include gen-eral information, an election calendar, and references for guidelines and statutes,” Woodward said. “Anyone is welcome to learn more about the duties of Councilmembers and how the election process is conducted, even if they have no desire to run for office. The steps to becoming and the obligations of an elected Councilmember are many and varied.”

The City of Huntsville application fee is one dollar, per City Charter man-date. The ballot will include a general election for the four ward council seats and the Mayor, and a special election for the remaining year of the At-Large Position 1 term. The candidate’s packet is on the City web site at http://www.huntsvilletx.gov/egov/documents/1373397637_30481.pdf. City Hall is located at 1212 Avenue M, and its regular business hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call (936) 291-5403.

CITY OF HUNTSVILLE POSTSNOTICE FOR NOVEMBER CITYCOUNCIL ELECTION FILINGS


EVENTSJOURNALNEWSJOURNAL

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — Grab your friends and join us for food and fun at the Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking School, which will be presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Four dates and locations are available to attend! July 30 in Huntsville, August 1 in Conroe, August 6 in College Station, or August 8 in Giddings are your options. Doors will open for each school at 5:30 p.m. with the school beginning at 6:00 p.m. “While there are many groups who conduct cooking schools, we believe the Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking School has a unique niche,” said Dr. Susan Ballabina, Regional Program Director for Family and Consumer Sciences of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

“During the cooking school, everyone will see demonstrations of quick and easy-to-make recipes from the Dinner Tonight Cookbook. The unique cookbook contains 12 meal plans and all the recipes, including entrées, sides, and desserts – perfect for busy families. We are target-ing busy people who still want to make time for meal preparation and feel good about what they are feeding themselves and their family. Our goals are to promote family mealtime, teach families healthy meal plan-ning and food preparation techniques, and promote Texas agriculture.”

This event is brought to you by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and will feature a dynamic team of local county Extension agents from Brazos, Burleson, Lee, Milam, Montgomery, and Walker counties. Meals to be demonstrated include Herb-Crusted Pork Chops, Flavorful Green Beans, Macaroni and Cheese, and Dark Chocolate Meringue Drops; Quick Tilapia, Spinach Salad, Veggie Couscous, and Pineapple Cake; Chicken Quesadillas, Nopalitos with Tomatoes and Onions, No-Guilt Guacamole, and Make-ahead Caramel Flan. Special guest chefs will make appearances.

All participants will receive a cookbook, a gift bag, and a chance to win door prizes. The cost of the cooking school is $20. Pre-registration is re-quired to attend and closes one week prior to the event. To register, go online to http://www.eventbrite.com , search Dinner Tonight, and se-lect the location you would like to attend. For in person registration, call 936-435-2426.

If you have general questions about the cooking school, please call your local AgriLife Extension office at 936-435-2426.

DINNER TONIGHT HEALTHYCOOKING SHOOL ROAD SHOWREGISTRATION FOR JULY 30 CLASS

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — Cindy Blaylock, Walker County Democratic Party Chair provided the new regulations for Texas voters who must show a photo ID to vote in elections in Texas, unless you are exempt (see “Ex-emptions” below).

If you do not have any of the following acceptable forms of ID, begin-ning June 26, 2013, you may apply for an Election Identification Certifi-cate (EIC) at no charge. However, if you already have any of the following forms of ID, you are not eligible for an EIC:

• Texas driver license—unexpired or expired less than 60 days• Texas identification card—unexpired or expired less than 60 days• Texas concealed handgun license—unexpired or expired less than

60 days• U.S. passport—unexpired or expired less than 60 days• U.S. military identification with photo• U.S. citizenship certificate with photo

Exemptions: If you are voting by mail, you do not have to submit a pho-to ID.

If you have a documented disability, you may apply at your county voter registrar for a permanent exemption from the photo ID requirement. If approved, you will not need a photo ID to vote.

For more information on the types of exemptions available, please visit your county voter registrar or the Texas Secretary of State.

To qualify for an EIC, you must be:• Eligible to vote in Texas (show a valid voter registration card or sub-

mit a voter registration application to the Department of Public Safety)

• A U.S. citizen• A Texas resident• 17 years and 10 months or older

How to Apply:To apply for an EIC, visit a driver license office and complete an Applica-tion for Texas Election Certificate (DL-14C). Please bring documentation with you to verify your:

• U.S. citizenship• Identity• Expiration and Use

An EIC is valid for six years. There is no expiration date for certificates issued to citizens 70 years of age or older. Election Identification Certifi-cates may only be used to vote and do not replace a Texas driver license or ID card. In addition, an EIC will not be accepted to verify identity when applying for a Texas driver license or ID card. The Texas Election Code 63.001(b) requires a photo ID in order to vote in Texas. The Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 521A and 37 Texas Administration Code, Sections 15.181-185, authorizes DPS to issue Election Identification Cer-tificates.

VOTER ID REGULATIONS IN EFFECT BEGINNING IMMEDIATELY,REQUIRED FOR FALL VOTING


EVENTSJOURNAL

SAM’s STEM CAMP ENCOURAGESFEMALES IN SCIENCE, TECH, MATH

Dr. Bobby Lane (Center), a Horticulture and Crop Sciences Professor at Sam, discusses agronomy with Sam Houston’s this summers’ STEM Camp partici-pants.

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — Sam Houston State University’s Summer STEM Camp provided students with the opportunity to take part in hands-on activities, experiments, and field experiences related to animal science, plant science, aerospace engineering, renewable energy, and much more. This camp was designed and held specifically for female high school students. The camp promotes science, technology, engineer-ing, and mathematics (STEM) education and supports historically un-derserved and underrepresented students with limited opportunities. Students selected to attend the camp did so free of charge through to the generosity of the Texas Workforce Commission.

The SHSU STEM Camp was a one-week, educational, residential camp with the goal of increasing students’ knowledge and skills in the STEM areas while stimulating their interest in science and engineering as a potential career path. Campers participated in activities led by univer-sity faculty that include problem solving, research, critical thinking, and communication skills, incorporated with biology, chemistry, physics, en-vironmental sciences, engineering, technology, and design concepts.

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — The Walker County Emergency Services Personnel Appreciation Committee was founded in 2001 by the late Judge John Pasket as an effort to honor and support all Emergency Services Per-sonnel serving the citizens of Walker County. Each year, scholarships are awarded the organizations’ annual Appreciation Dinner.

Each year local businesses as well as individuals share the expense of this special occasion by being table sponsors. The tax deductible spon-sorship is $250 and includes two meal tickets for the sponsor and eight meal tickets for honorees that will join the sponsor for dinner. Table and Door Prize Sponsors will be displayed on each table.

This year’s event is scheduled for 6-8 pm on Saturday August 3rd, 2013 at the HEARTS Veterans Complex on Hwy 75 N.

This is not a fundraiser. Monies left over after expenses have been paid go back into the community throughout the year in the name of the Emergency Personnel of Walker County for emergency supplies, special needs and scholarships.

Last year’s Fall Scholarship recipients were New Waverly firefighter By-ron Robinson and Morgan Williams, daughter of firefighter Jimmy Wil-liams. The orgniazation also provides individual training scholarships throughout the year to any Walker County Fire, EMS or LE Officer.

Anyone wishing to participate should contact: Kim Williams 936-344-8164 [email protected] or Sherry Ingram 936-788-1035 [email protected]

WALKER CO EMERGENCY SERVICESPERSONNEL APPRECIATION DINNERSLATED FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

U.S. Representative Kevin Brady from Texas Congressional District 8 was on hand for last year’s Walker County Emergency Services Appreciation Dinner with scholarship recipients Morgan Williams (left), daughter of firefighter Jimmy Williams and firefighter Byron Robinson. Both represented New Wa-verly Volunteer Fire Department.

EVENTSJOURNAL


WALKER COUNTY FIREFIGHTERS PARTICIPATE IN TRAINING

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Nearly 50 Firefighters representing every department in Walker County signed up for Wildland Fire Training sponsored by the WCFFA and the Texas A&M Forest Service. This training meets all of the requirements set forth by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

Each WCFFA member completing the training will be qualified as a Type II NWCG Wildland Firefighter. In addition to giving the participants an improved understanding of wildfire behavior, this training serves as the basis for more advanced courses that will be offered in the future through the WCFFA. The cost of this course was underwritten by the Texas A&M Forest Service and offered at no charge to members of the WCFFA.

(HUNTSVILLE, TX) — Most wildfires result from careless outdoor burn-ing. State Law requires that the ban be implemented by the County Commissioner’s Court. In Walker County, Commissioners rely on advice from HFD Chief Tom Grisham and EMC Butch Davis, as well as Forest Service Officials.

In an interview with Chief Grisham, he related that he focuses primarily on two factors in summer; the current KBDI Drought reading and rainfall deficits throughout the area.

Chief Grisham emphasized that the goal of the ban is to achieve com-pliance, not punish those who burn. In most cases, simply notifying an individual that the burn ban is in effect is all that is needed.

Chief Grisham stated that levels above 600 on the drought index are cause for concern, and that once the average reading approaches 650 or more, wildfire behavior is more erratic and a burn ban may be neces-sary to limit the threat of large wildfires.

Residents should be reminded to always check on the status of any burn ban before attempting to burn outdoors.

This information is provided courtesy of the Walker County Firefight-ers Association Newsletter and is reprinted from their Summer 2013 issue.

BURN BANS PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE IN WILDFIRE PREVENTION


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Join Huntsville Public Library and Walker County Genealogical Society for a Genealogy Weekend August 9 – 10 at the Huntsville Public Library, 1219 13th Street. Registration will begin at 8:45 a.m. on Friday, August 9 with a tour of the Library beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Speakers for the event include Emily Anne Croom, professional genealo-gist and author; David Dilts, Senior Research Consultant at the Family His-tory Library in Utah; Marian S. Hunter, experienced FamilySearch trainer; Kevin Klaus, Information Specialist with Texas General Land Office; and Johnnie Jo Dickenson, professional genealogist.

“We have several truly gifted individuals speaking at our Genealogy Week-end event,” said Denise Tilson with the Huntsville Public Library. “We have several out-of-town speakers who will bring specific areas of expertise and special skills to our already-extensive genealogical resource center.

“Emily Croom, for example, is a member of the National Genealogical So-ciety, the Association of Professional Genealogists, and several local and state genealogical societies. Besides numerous articles in magazines and society journals, she has written a number of family histories as well as widely acclaimed books on genealogical research.”

Tilson said guest speaker David Dilts is also well-versed in genealogical studies, having served with several state and national associations includ-ing the Utah Genealogical Association.”

“David Dilts will be invaluable to our Genealogy Weekend, especially be-cause he likes to answer questions about research throughout the U.S.,” Tilson said. “Another of our speakers, Marian Hunter, will also be an excel-lent person to ask questions. She has worked at the Family History Center in Salt Lake Center and is considered an expert in teaching how to suc-cessfully navigate through the multiple levels of FamilySearch.org.”

Another extremely valuable speaker scheduled to appear at the event, Kevin Klaus has served as one of the lead researchers in the Texas General Land Office Archives and Records Program Area for the last 10 years.

“During his time at the Land Office, Klaus has searched the early Court of Claims files and archival collection to learn more about the history of Texas and discover the amazing collection of personal letters of early sol-diers and pioneers who helped settle our great state,” Tilson said.

Huntsville Public Library is a FamilySearch Affiliate Library. Anyone wish-ing to place a request for materials to use during the weekend may place their orders at http://www.familysearch.org/films. The film will be deliv-ered to HPL for use.

Support for portions of the event is provided in memory of Frances Ma-rie Sprott Goforth, Past-President, Walker County Genealogical Society. Please register by email at [email protected] or by calling Denise Tilson at 936-291-5471.

PUBLIC LIBRARY, WALKER COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY PREPARE FOR GENEALOGY WEEKEND


Documents

Walker County Journal 07/25/13 Issue