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Clean air, clean water and healthy land all contribute to healthier human lifestyles and are necessary for life. These are all ecosystem services that are traditionally thought of as free benefits provided by the natural systems around us. Regional planning policies must consider placing real value on ecosystem services so that they are adequately protected. This can be done with policies that encourage and reward private landowners to stay on their land and take care of it in a manner that benefits society. The costs of replacing basic ecosystem services with engineered alternatives can be astronomical, so planning rather than reacting is essential for a sustainable region.
Ecosystem services can generally be separated into four categories: provisioning services (ie. food, air, water, energy, minerals); regulating services (ie. carbon storage, waste decomposition, water purification); supporting services (ie. nutrient recycling, seed dissemination); and cultural services (ie. outdoor recreation). In order to benefit from ecosystem services, the ecosystem itself must be maintained. This can be challenging in places where development, natural resource exploitation and other human activities drastically alter the landscape, uprooting native plants and wildlife, damaging water quality or polluting the air.
Measuring and quantifying the benefits of natural systems can be difficult, but when ecosystem services remain unrecognized or undervalued, their true worth is often not reflected in decision-making.
Land & Water: A Quantitative Analysis of Land Conservation's Impact on Water in Colorado - From the Colorado Coalition of Land Trusts
ESA Pamphlet - A short document from the Ecological Society of America briefly introducing the concept of ecosystem services.
Ecosystem Services An essay from The Nature Conservancy and a professor at the University of Washington discussing valuation of ecosystem services.
Conservation Learning Exchange - An introduction to the concept of ecosystem services, including links to scientific assessment tools and program development resources.
Ecosystem Services: Benefits Supplied to Human Societies by Natural Ecosystems - A paper discussing types of ecosystem services.
Texas Landowner Perceptions Regarding Ecosystem Services An academic paper analyzing a survey of landowners in the Western Edwards Aquifer area.
Private Lands, Public Benefits - A report on incentives for the stewardship of Texas agricultural lands from the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources and the American Farmland Trust, which discusses the ecosystem services of agricultural land.
Ecosystem Services Guide - A guide for public and private decision makers produced by the World Resources Institute, which discusses risk assessment and policy development.
Ecosystem Services- Learning to Leverage Natural Capital Article by Frederick Steiner on the importance of ecosystem services in central Texas.
Characterization of the Central Texas Ecosystem - Information about the Hill Country ecosystem from the Forest Encyclopedia Network.
Ecosystem Valuation - An overview of the connection between economics and ecosystems.
EPA Ecosystem Services Research - The EPAs program to develop research that will allow us to properly evaluate the benefits of ecosystems.
Forest Service - Information on ecosystem services from the U.S. Forest Service.
TEEB Home - Information on The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB), a major international initiative designed to increase awareness of the significant value of biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
The Natural Value Initiative - An international partnership focusing on the private sector that works to educate companies in the food, beverage, energy and mining sectors about the importance of ecosystem services.
Conservation International Map - An interactive map with information on ecosystem evaluation projects across the globe.
PNAS Ecosystem Services Special Feature - A special issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal featuring several articles about ecosystem services science and program development.
Texas A&M Forest Service An introduction into the sustainable management of Texas forests for renewable timber resources.
Ecosystem Marketplace - A website dedicated to making science, market, regulatory and finance information available for the promotion of ecosystem services marketplaces feasible.
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What is your vision of the Hill Country that future generations will inherit? The Hill Country Alliance (HCA) asks this question as it calls for photographs for its 2016 calendar. The annual HCA photo contest opens on March 1 and runs through May 31. Winners receive cash prizes and their photos will appear in the popular HCA calendar and in the organizations various educational products. Entering the contest is easy through the HCA website. Learn more
Former LCRA General Manager and groundwater developer, Joe Beal is back in the news with plans to transport water from Bastrop and Lee counties to Travis and Williamson Counties. "It was Beals empire-building effort at the river authority in the early 2000s that sent water pipelines shooting into the Hill Country, accelerating suburbia in areas around Dripping Springs" Read more from Statesman.com
"Over the past 15 years, I have studied more than 1,000 springs, closely examining the relationship between springs and the health of the aquifer. I have discovered that springs are of inestimable value to plants and wildlife in landscapes where they occur and have also learned that springs continue to be as important to populations today as they were thousands of years ago. We have also found that in many ways, springs are the canary in the coal mine for groundwater sources." Read more from the National Geographic.
The Trinity Edwards Springs Protection Association (TESPA) today announced its formation as a Texas non-‐profit corporation created to protect these aquifers and their associated springs. In the process, TESPA seeks to bring clarity to the groundwater property rights associated with owning land over the Trinity and Edwards Aquifers and associated springs. Learn more
The second Bennett Trust educational program will take place April 23-24, 2015 at the Inn of the Hills Resort and Conference Center, Kerrville. This first-of-its-kind conference, Protecting the Legacy of the Edwards Plateau, will bring the best and wisest, accomplished stewards, visionaries, and legacy-leavers together as educators. Details
While it was once widely assumed that heavy brush like cedar was keeping rainwater from recharging our streams and groundwater systems, science seems to indicate that it's not quite that simple. When done with care and an eye toward restoration, brush control can be beneficial to ecosystem health. Just be realistic about the likelihood that it will fill your stream or stock pond. Read more from Texas Wildlife Magazine.
Ten high school students in Pioneers Youth Leadership were awarded $24,000 in scholarships and cash awards last week at the Capital Farm Credit Rural Youth Entrepreneurship Competition at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. Participating in this competition has given me confidence that I can successfully start and run a business in my hometown, said Steeley Smith. I was able to learn so much about the positive impacts of rainwater collection through my research, said Jessica Dong of Knippa. Learn more
A recent article in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine profiles some of the biggest problem species invading Texas lakes and waterways, and finds that the damage they are inflicting could cost Texans billions of dollars - and millions of gallons of water - each year. "It's a war, and you are involved." Read more from TPW Magazine.
Learn the basics of birding at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm. Birding is good for you physically, mentally and spiritually. You get outside, you use your brain, and its about something bigger than you, says Patsy Inglet of San Antonio. The veteran birder and certified Master Naturalist teaches Introduction to Birding workshops with her birdster husband Tom Inglet. Their next class at the center is 9 a.m. to noon March 28. Learn more
Environment Texas Research and Policy Center has launched a new website - www.OurTexasWater.org highlighting some of the best and worst projects in the State Water Plan. The website features an interactive map where Texans can find projects in their communities that get either a Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down for their impact to our rivers, aquifers and natural resources. The website currently gives a thumbs down to the proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir in northeast Texas, pumping of the Carrizo Wilcox Aquifer in Bastrop County and a Val Verde County water project which could threaten the Devils River.
With supplies depleted by drought, the population growing daily and few large water projects in our immediate future, new development must minimize their water demands to protect the lakes, aquifers, and rivers. The counties surrounding the rapidly growing major cities will play a huge role in how we wisely use or diminish our water supplies and in the end determine the States economic attractiveness to the nation. Read more from Tom Hegemier, chair of the Central Texas Land Water Sustainability Forum.
Well drillers are locating these gaps in water district jurisdictions and exploiting them for pure profit, said PEC District 6 Director Larry Landaker, who sponsored the resolution. What is happening in Hays County through the misuse of the rule of capture is tantamount to the theft of water by one community to serve another. That volume of water could create a serious economic impact to the Hill Country communities we serve. Economic impact to the Hill Country is economic impact to PEC. Read more from PEC.
As the story of unregulated groundwater in Hays County unfolds, there are two websites worth paying attention to for current information about citizen involvement. Citizens Alliance for Responsible Development (CARD) and Save Our Wells.
Many hill country people have been following the Flying J story in Junction; a poster child for ongoing threats to Hill Country rivers due to a lack of rules and oversight. View this video, read final testimony to the City of Junction here.
Come on out to Enchanted Rock this weekend to celebrate the stars! The first Enchanted Rock Star Festival will be February 21 at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Fredericksburg. According to Melissa Mial, event spokesperson, the purpose of the inaugural event is to celebrate Enchanted Rocks designation as an International Dark Sky Park and Wildlifes Dark Sky Initiative and increase awareness of the benefits of dark sky friendly lighting. Learn more
Op-ed by Ron Walton: I am not against growth but know the importance of being able to provide the infrastructure to support it. Unfortunately, I see a growing tendency however for growth in the area at all cost which, especially in the Hill Country (my specialty as a Hydro-geologist with background in water wells, septics, and geomorphology) I think does a disservice to all current residents like myself who came here recently. Read more
Preliminary 2014 data shows the drought gripping the Highland Lakes is now the most severe drought the region has experienced since construction of the lakes began in the 1930s. As a direct result of the prolonged record-dry conditions and record-low inflows from the streams and tributaries feeding the Highland Lakes, the firm yield, or inventory of water LCRA can provide reliably every year, has been decreased by about 100,000 acre-feet, to 500,000 acre-feet per year. (An acre-foot of water is 325,851 gallons.) Further reductions in firm yield are possible as the drought continues. Read more
As built artifacts, the county courthouses of central Texas tell a compelling story of a particular part of the country over a specific period of time. But more than a mere index of a building type, this project seeks to describe how county courthouses and the squares in which they sit relate to the larger communities that surround them. Read more from TPR. HCA likes to imagine Hill Country courthouses with native landscaping and rainwater harvesting.
Communities need to reevaluate traditional planning approaches if they are to support increasing population and economic expansion in the coming years particularly in areas with high growth and stressed water supplies, said Mary Ann Dickinson, President and CEO of the Alliance for Water Efficiency. Read more from the Alliance for Water Efficiency report, "Water Demand Offset Programs Offer a Path to Sustainable Community Development" here.
This week the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced what many have noticed for the past 20 years- monarch butterfly numbers are on a precipitous decline. Over the past 25 years an estimated 970 million monarchs have disappeared, largely due to loss of habitat. The Texas Hill Country is an important part of the monarch migration route, and USFWS has prioritized the entire I-35 corridor for reestablishing butterfly habitat. That means planting native milkweed and other pollinator-friendly plants. Read more about the efforts to bring monarchs back from the Washington Post
A plan to build a concrete batch plant northwest of Dripping Springs has created an uproar among some residents. The plant, which would be operated as Dripping Wet Concrete, has received a preliminary approval for an air quality standard permit, according to documents provided on the TCEQ website. The plant will release a variety of air contaminants, including aggregate, cement and road dust, the document indicates. Read more from Austin Business Journal. Read more about the lack of county oversight of these issues here.
The National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) considered one of the countrys most innovative transportation organizations has selected Austin as the site of its 2015 Designing Cities Conference. Read more from Statesman.com.
A lot has been said about brush control recently, from those who tout it as a way to generate new water supplies to those who argue that it may cause more harm than good. When thinking about brush control on your property, there are some important things to consider. As Steve Nelle describes in this helpful article published in TWA's Texas Wildlife Magazine, the first thing a landowner needs to know is WHY they are undertaking brush control. That will inform the location, intensity and methods of treatment.
I am a rural Texan family farmer. I am a downstream stakeholder/landowner. I have surface water rights that run with my land. These rights and this river I guard intensely, for they are integral to my livelihood and my childrens future. As some say, they are golden. "...The system is broken when we cannot protect our most basic elemental resource clean water." Read Bill Neiman's story as published in TWA's Texas Wildlife Magazine.
On February 3 Hays County Commissioners Court took an important first step, in order to, start the process for legislation to address un-regulated commercial pumping of our groundwater resources. Commissioner Conley is encouraging all jurisdictions in Hays County and surrounding areas to pass similar resolutions. Its important our state officials hear from our entire community stated Commissioner Conley. Read the Resolution. Learn about upcoming public meetings and the latest details on this issue at www.saveourwells.com.
A satellite launched by NASA over the weekend could help people around the world tackle the challenges of drought. Researchers at the University of Texas will play a part in that mission that could also help forecast flooding and allow officials to better manage reservoir water supplies. Read more from State Impact.
There are two events this February where you can learn how to save money, preserve our night skies and enjoy some star gazing with friends and family. Join HCA for "Better Lights for Starry Nights" at the Johnson City Library Feb 17 and Enchanted Rock Star Festival Feb 21. Learn more about protecting night skies here.
Take time to watch and consider Where Am I? The Power of Uniqueness A TED talk by Ed McMahon, former Scenic America President. Watch now
Two decades ago, the Legislature dedicated a portion of sporting goods sales-tax proceeds - levied on everything from kayaks to pingpong balls - to state parks. Instead of using these funds as advertised, typically, the bulk of the proceeds are diverted into the general revenue fund to pay for schools, prisons and roads. Read more from the Houston Chronicle.
A diverse group of water and energy experts, known as the Texas Roundtable on Water, will release a thorough set of recommendations at a Legislative Briefing on February 16, 2015 at the State Capitol in the Auditorium Room E1.004. The recommendations are designed to ensure the security and sustainability of water resources for the long term economic and social viability of Texas. Read more
With the San Antonio City Councils Governance Committees unanimous approval, renewal for sales tax funding of the Edwards Aquifer Protection Program (EAPP) and Howard Peak Greenway Trails System is expected to go to the voters on the May 9 ballot. Read more from the Rivard Report.
High school students from Hill Country area schools in Pioneers Youth Leadership attended the Pioneers State Leadership Forum in Austin last week. Over two days, the students worked with state agencies and elected officials to address the challenges faced by rural Texas communities regarding water conservation, youth leadership education, and economic development. Learn more
In mid-western Hays County, a groundwater war is escalating. A private water supplier, with goals to pipe and sell close to 6,000 acre feet of water per year has strategically located a well field in an area of the Hill Country where the Trinity Aquifer is unregulated. Read more from the January 26 blog post by Vanessa Puig-Williams. Also read "Groundwater Wars Brewing in Austins Suburbs published in the Texas Tribune.
Want to see what San Antonio will look like in 2020 and 2030? An interactive tool developed by the Urban Institute lets you look at the future size of U.S. cities and their demographics, and even alter assumptions for birth, death and immigration rates to see how low, average or high metrics will affect long-term growth and population makeup. Read more from the Rivard Report.
Nearly three months after approving the $3.4 billion Vista Ridge water purchase and pipeline deal, City Council now appears poised to authorize renewal of two landmark propositions that have funded protection of the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone and development of the Howard Peak Greenway Trails System for the last 15 years. Learn more from the Rivard Report.
In a recent piece in the Upper Llano River Watershed Protection Plan Newsletter, Dr. Tom Arsuffi explores the value of a healthy, functioning Hill Country ecosystem. In a Texas that is increasingly urbanizing, how do we ensure that our urban centers properly value responsible land management that produces the clean water, resilient wildlife habitat, fresh air and healthy food resources we all need? A related article from High Country News explores the nuances of ecosystem services. It's not as simple as putting a price tag on nature.
Recently elected Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said Wednesday that he plans for the agency to play a more active role as it relates to water. Were going to have a water department, and were going to be very involved, Miller said at a luncheon during a Lower Colorado River Authority Planning and Public Policy Committee meeting. And were going to be involved in policy. Read more from the Austin Monitor.
In a classic example of the gaps in Texas' patchwork approach to regulating groundwater, an unprecedented amount of water may soon be pumped from underneath already parched Hays County with virtually no oversight. Read more from the Texas Tribune.
The Hays County Commissioners Court voted unanimously January 20 to form a committee that would hold public forums to discuss concerns over groundwater pumping, particularly in areas where conservation districts have no authority, in the interest of protecting private land rights while promoting public responsibility. Read more from Hays County. Also read related article from Statesman.com: "Critics see conflicts of interest in Hays County water wells".
A decade-old project to build a passenger rail line between the San Antonio and Austin areas picked up steam January 21 with a public meeting of the Lone Star Rail Project. The meeting served as the kickoff to the projects environmental impact study, which Lone Star Rail Director Joe Black called a major, major point in the project. Read more from the Austin Monitor.
On March 4th, hundreds of conservation professionals, land trust volunteers, landowners and agency folks working on land and water conservation issues in Texas will travel to Austin to gather for the 19th annual Texas Land Conservation Conference. Learn more
Conservation and the importance of preserving our natural habitat are deeply held Texas values, said Dan Allen Hughes, Chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. Texas voters understand that a strong and thriving system of state parks contributes to a vibrant economy, is an important source of recreation for Texas families and helps protect the natural environment that makes Texas unique. Read more
A new player has plans to sell up to 5.3 million gallons of water per day to utilities in Hays County, where rapidly growing communities are increasingly desperate to secure water. But the location of Houston-based Electro Purifications well field, near the intersection of three water districts, has Hays County officials worried that the company will dodge regulatory oversight and hog more than half of the water available from the Trinity Aquifer an already-depleted aquifer in the northern part of the county. Read more from Statesman.com
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be conducting public meetings in Helotes and Kerrville in early February to obtain comments on the Southern Edwards Plateau draft Habitat Conservation Plan, draft Environmental Impact Statement and an incidental take permit application. Learn more
Hays County commissioners are pretty sure of one thing: Changes will need to be made to FM 150 if it is to accommodate the increased traffic expected to come as a result of Hays Countys rapid growth. However, commissioners are unsure of what exactly those changes will look like. Read more from Community Impact.
"Texans living in the Hill Country have a deep and abiding understanding of the importance of clear, flowing streams, heritage trees, trash-free landscapes, and a calm, quiet environment. We also have a very strong belief in property rights and the responsibilities that accompany those rights." Read more from Leo Tynan as published in the Fredericksburg Times Standard.
The Hill Country Science Mill in Johnson City will be hold its Grand Opening Celebration February 14 from 10am -6pm. Included will be a presentation by Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve as well as live music and fun activities. Proceeds from the Grand Opening will benefit the Science Mill's Scholarship Program, which will help defray the transportation costs for field trips, admission, and enrollment in science programs and camps for qualified students. Learn more
The pumping of water from the Edwards Aquifer, the enormous underground cave system beneath Central Texas, has long been a topic of fierce dispute, involving property rights, endangered species, and drinking water needs. Leading policy-makers, scientists, environmentalists and attorneys will convene Tuesday in San Marcos for a day-long free forum titled History of the Edwards Aquifer Dispute: A View from the Trenches. Read more from Statesman.com.
These wells are being drilled THROUGH and BELOW the Edwards Aquifer into the underlying Trinity Aquifer, the aquifer that supplies the groundwater for western Hays County, including the Wimberley and Dripping Springs areas (not to mention most of Blanco, Kendall, Bandera and many other Texas counties). Learn more from CARD about this critical Hill Country issue in an area that is not covered by a Groundwater Conservation District. More from CARD.
Residents of Greater San Antonio area reduced the number of vehicle trips taken on area roads by more than 1 million during 2014, according to AACOG, who sponsors NuRide, an online carpool matching, alternative transportation tracking, and reward system. The eliminated vehicle trips cited by AACOG were those of individuals who walked, cycled, took transit, carpooled/vanpooled, worked a compressed schedule, or telecommuted; and self-reported these trips through NuRide.com. More from AACOG.
Peter Mullan, who helped lead the critically acclaimed redevelopment of New York City's High Line park, has been tapped to lead the Waller Creek Conservancy, which is itself looking to dramatically reshape Waller Creek into a lush greenbelt park running through central Austin. Read more from Austin Business Journal.
If you don't know what water catchment area (watershed) your land is in, you can find it on our map viewer. Landowner networks exist in many fragile hill country water catchments. Learn about current news and events of the South Llano River Watershed Alliance here. If you're interested in networking with landowners in your water catchment, send us a note.
TWDB unveils new tools for observing drought data and trends. "We wanted Texans and all those interested in our state's drought resources to not only see the information we use when evaluating drought in Texas, but also understand why and how we use it," explained Robert Mace. This data is easy to access whether you are doing technical research or simply trying to understand Drought in your backyard. More from TWDB.
The LCRA's drought update for the Highland Lakes region is full of interesting- and disappointing - facts. Due to the rainfall in the Colorado watershed coming in dispersed events and generating little runoff, 2014 inflows into the Highland Lakes system were the second lowest on record. In fact, 7 of the 10 lowest inflow years on record have happened since 2006. If the combined storage of the Highland Lakes fall to below 600,000 acre feet, the LCRA board would be forced to declare a drought worse than the drought of record. For more information, read the LCRA's drought update page here.
San Antonio voters have long recognized that our economy and quality of life rest on protecting the water and green spaces that drew people here centuries ago, Councilmember Nirenberg said. Renewing this highly successful Hill Country conservation program for a fourth five-year term would require voter approval on the May 9 ballot. Learn more from the Rivard Report.
Should, could and would water be considered a crop by agricultural interests to market to water short urban neighbors? And, while protecting their own propertys value, their neighbors, natural resources possibly dependent upon that water (springs, creeks, etc.) and the communitys future needs? Read more from Mike Mecke, published in Ranch and Rural Living Magazine.
The stars at night, are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas... The 1942 Hit Parade song paying tribute to the Lone Star States starry skies strikes a sour note today in large cities nestled deep in the heart of Texas, where artificial light pollution has rendered all but the very brightest celestial bodies invisible to stargazers. But theres a meteoric movement in Texas to hit the dimmer switch on manmade illumination that obscures night skies across much of our state. Read more from the January issue of Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine.
Patrick L. Reznik, an attorney with Braun & Gresham, answers a few common questions about the rights of Texas landowners threatened by eminent domain, a process by which private and public entities condemn private lands to build transmission lines, pipelines, rail systems and roads, and to take surface or groundwater. Learn more
Carolyn and Roy Horton are passionate stewards of Sandylands Ranch, a sweeping property that backs up to the Pedernales River in the Hill Country. Texas Land Conservancy (TLC) sat down with Carolyn and Roy to ask them about their stewardship ethic, their love of the land, and their vision for the future of Texas. Read the interview and learn more about TLC including a January 17th hike at Sandylands Ranch.
The Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne plans on starting the new year with a 3-part workshop on Texas's wildlife tax valuation. If you are a landowner with 20 acres or more and are interested in learning more about switching your land from agricultural to wildlife valuation, this is the course for you. More details and registration information available here.
The January/February edition of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine features a profile of Terry Hershey, an important pioneer in the history of conservation. Hershey left a lasting impact on the Hill Country and the rest of Texas by championing the use of conservation easements to permanently protect open spaces. Check out the full story here. Read the entire issue (including a story about protecting our dark night skies) here.
Former President and Texas native Lyndon B. Johnson once said: Saving the water and the soil must start where the first raindrop falls. In Texas, where about 95 percent of the land is privately owned, and 83 percent of that land is rural farms, ranches and forests, it is essential that all Texans understand the interconnection of land and water to ensure the healthy stewardship of both, according to natural resource professionals. Read more from TAMU.
The topic of land stewardship has gained a great deal of public attention during recent years. This is a good trend since it helps focus greater awareness to the importance of how the land is treated, and the people who carry out responsible land care. However, land stewardship to some extent, has become a catchphrase; feel-good words; frequently used but seldom clearly defined. In some ways, land stewardship is becoming an over-used slogan; thus the need to clarify its true meaning and character. Read more from Steve Nelle's article published in the Hill Country Land Trust Newsletter.
The legislative session is gearing up, and increasing groundwater production will be the objective of at least a couple of bills. Groundwater will be an important asset for Texas' future water portfolio, but should maximization be the goal? That's one of the questions Our Desired Future is meant to provoke. Read Sharlene Leurigs recent op-ed in the Texas Tribune.
Where have all the monarchs gone? This is becoming an oft repeated query, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologists are asking for citizen help in answering the question. Since monitoring of overwintering monarch butterfly populations 1993, the WWF has documented a significant decline that reached an all-time low in the winter of 2013. Biologists recently launched a project to explore Texas milkweed and determine where it is, how much is out there and are the monarchs using it. Read more.
A TCEQ Public Meeting will be held Monday night, December 15th at 7 pm at Star Hill Ranch to hear concerns about the wastewater treatment plant to service this large, dense proposed development. Community members encourage participation as this development will profoundly change the Hamilton Pool Road neighborhood. View the meeting notice here. You can learn more about this project and other issues affecting the Bee Cave and Hamilton Pool Road community at www.HPRmatters.com.
Water is not traditionally thought of as a crop, but Water As A Crop® and its partners are hoping to change that. This organization promotes the idea that water falling on private, rural land can be effectively conserved and marketed in a manner similar to crops. In exchange for implementing conservation practices, rural landowners receive financial incentives to reimburse their costs. These conservation practices benefit investors and landowners and preserve water for rural and urban communities alike. Read more from Texas Water Resource Institute.
Youve been hearing about SWIFT for months; TWDB is now ready to implement this revolving loan program for water supply projects. The first round of applications are due February 3rd. Conservation is the least expensive and most efficient strategy of all which is why SWIFT legislation requires that not less than 20 percent of this program (hopefully more) is spent on conservation and reuse. Learn more
Los Angeles is a city that is notorious for its use of water- importing it from hundreds of miles away and delivering stormwater to the Pacific Ocean through the Los Angeles River, which largely has been converted to a concrete ditch. The story that is less often told is how this city of 3.8 million, and cities across the country, have begun implementing conservation practices that have shrunk their water footprint and changed the way we look at stormwater. Read more here.
Despite the fact that Texas counties have very little real control over how unincorporated land is developed, Travis County is giving it its best effort, as Commissioners approved a comprehensive Land Water and Transportation Plan on Tuesday. Read more from Austin Monitor.
Stanley Rabkes family has lived and worked on their Hill Country ranch since 1889. Generations of Rabkes have struggled with the extremes of Texas weather, but one storm sticks out in Stanleys memory: it came after the drought of the 1950s. Learn about the Bureau of Economic Geology research the Rabkes are participating in. Read the full story from Mose Buchele at State Impact.
Comal commissioners are supporting proposed legislation to create the Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District. The GCD is necessary because the Trinity, a major source of well water in the Hill Country area west of Interstate 35, already has dropped some 87 feet in the last 15 years Read more from the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung.
Storing and using the rainwater that falls on your roof can improve the quality of your drinking water and free you from the restricted use of water for your landscape in time of drought. The Cow Creek GCD has provided several video examples to show how it's done.
Residents are concerned that a sand quarry would destroy the tranquility of the rural community. Because mines typically operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, a quarry would bring noise and heavy truck traffic to the area and because Pontotoc is emerging as a destination for wine tasting, local vintners fear that noise and dust from a mine would bring an end to a growing ecotourism business that has brought visitors to its tasting rooms. Read more from the San Antonio Express News.
The Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance has published "Watershed Stewardship for the Edwards Aquifer Region, a Low Impact Development Manual." The manual was designed for developers, landscape architects, and all of those who live on, or are planning to build over our fragile aquifer recharge areas. Information about techniques that encourage infiltration of clean stormwater on site, and how plantings and landscaping can be used to mitigate stormwater pollution are outlined. Download the manual for free here.
Groundwater rights have been hotly debated in Texas for as long as there has been the ability to pump it. Unlike surface water, which is owned by the state and held in trust for the public, Texas courts have ruled that groundwater is the surface owners vested private property. This vested right can be regulated by Groundwater Conservation Districts. Read more from Texas Living Waters.
This 60 Minutes segment on Groundwater Depletion in Californias Central Valley explores Californias drought and the depletion of its Central Valley aquifer due to agricultural over-pumping. With dwindling reservoirs here in Central Texas and ever growing population projections, numerous proposals are under consideration to pump and pipe groundwater to the I-35 Corridor and beyond. What can the Hill Country learn from Californias groundwater overdraft?
HCA has been recognized as an "HONORARY MEMBER in the Hays County Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist for exemplary service and commitment to the community and natural resources of the State of Texas. Thank you Dixie Camp and the HCMN for many years of collaboration, we look forward to many more. Read more about the award and learn about the Master Naturalist program here.
The Hill Country Alliance, in partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and The Nature Conservancy, will host a workshop on the nature and function of stream and riparian zones in the Hill Country. The workshop will feature presentations on riparian plants, basic hydrology, and techniques for ensuring healthy riparian function. The workshop will take place from 8am-4pm on Friday, December 5th. A variety of continuing education credits are available. Details
This amazing natural area is devoted to protecting the habitats of hundreds of species of native flora and fauna, grasslands, wooded hills and canyons, and vital watersheds. Thousands of school children visit and participate in hands-on learning experiences here. Learn more about this resource and how you can help protect it. Friends of Balcones Canyonlands
"The regulatory process, including groundwater districts' permitting process for huge commercial projects like this one, must afford the same due process to landowners who do not wish to sell their groundwater as it provides to private water marketers who derive their water rights from landowners who do choose to sell water." Read more
"Prince Charles has warned that the majority of people have 'lost any real connection with the land' as he outlined his concerns about the future of the countryside. He stressed the benefits to the wider economy of the countryside's 'ecosystem services' - with meadows and other grasslands storing millions of tonnes of carbon, providing homes for pollinating insects, supporting the agricultural economy and areas of beauty attracting visitors to boost local tourism." These issues translate here in the Texas Hill Country, read more from The Guardian.
Groundwater is being pumped at far greater rates than it can be naturally replenished, so that many of the largest aquifers on most continents are being mined, their precious contents never to be returned. Take a look at these maps that illustration how serious water shortages are in California, its essential to learn this lesson and protect healthy aquifers here in Texas, particularly here in the Hill Country.
"The take-away message from this study," Dr. Crompton says, "should be that the state park system is an important contributor to the Texas economy, particularly in rural areas and that the states net investment in parks is returned many times over as visitors travel to enjoy the outdoors and leave their dollars behind." Many of states most popular parks are right here in the Texas Hill Country. More from TPWD.
Ranchers and Landowners Association in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District will be hosting a rainwater catchment program November 15th in Bandera. Topics will include the state of Bandera County water, rainwater harvesting systems, and rainwater harvesting impact on appraisals. Details
Do you live in karst? About 25% of the US and the planets land surface is karst. Karst areas are the worlds most diverse, fascinating, resource-rich, yet problematic terrains. They contain the largest springs and most productive groundwater supplies on Earth. They provide unique subsurface habitat to rare animals, and their caves preserve fragile prehistoric material for millennia. They are also the landscapes most vulnerable to environmental impacts. Their groundwater is the most easily depleted and polluted. Learn more about the importance of Karsts during a free webinar from SNS, November 18. Details
Last week, the San Antonio City Council unanimously voted to move forward with the Vista Ridge Project that plans to bring 50,000 acre-feet of groundwater from Burleson County to the city. Because of our many concerns with this project, the vote was a disappointment, but last Thursdays Council deliberation did stir some positives worth discussing. Read more from Texas Living Waters.
While much of the plan is dedicated to the preservation of farmland, watersheds and nature preserves, other parts focus on encouraging building more dense, urban-like centers in the countys unincorporated and undeveloped areas. Read more from Community Impact.
On November 6, 2014, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) adopted a set of rules needed for fully implementing SWIFT in the lone star state. These rules will determine how projects eligible for SWIFT will be prioritized for funding. Now that the rules are official, public water providers are encouraged to submit an abridged application as the first step to receiving funding. More from TWDB.
HCA is interested in learning how you feel about the challenges facing the Texas Hill Country. Please take two minutes to fill out a brief public opinion survey by Monday, November 10th and you may win a two night stay at the Cool River Cabin along the beautiful Llano River. Take the survey here.
CNU Texas Chapter is bringing Chuck back to Texas for a three hour workshop on sensible transportation and infrastructure planning. We advocate for a model of growth that allows America's places to grow financially strong and resilient, Strong Towns. Chuck was a huge hit at HCAs Summit, catch him November 20th in Austin. Learn more
Yes! Rainwater harvesting is a doable, practical, affordable and great tasting way to provide water for homes, gardens and businesses. That was the message heard by the more than 750 people who came out to Dripping Springs to celebrate and learn at HCA's day long edu-fest. Attendees enjoyed 63 booths filled with helpful information and demonstrations, live music, great food and 13 speakers who discussed a range of rainwater harvesting and water conservation related topics. Thanks to all who participated and we'll see you next year! See photos from this year's event here.
Blayne Stansberry has been announced as the unofficial winner of of the Precinct 2 Directorship for The Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District. She and Director Craig Smith (Precinct 5, uncontested this election) will serve 4 year terms and join current directors Mary Stone (Precinct 1), Blake Dorsett (Precinct 3) and Robert (Bob) Larsen (Precinct 4) on the Board. More from BSEACD.
Balancing Rural and Urban Water Needs: How Local and Regional Planning Activities Ensure Long-Term Supplies. Join State Representative-Elect Andrew Murr as he moderates a discussion with SARA General Manager Suzanne Scott; Hydro-geologist, Region J consultant, John Ashworth and GBRA director/former CCGCD president, Tommy Mathews. Difficult decisions lie ahead as urban areas demand more water, rural areas experience loss of spring flow and our region faces increased challenges brought by population growth and drought. Are Central Texas water planning processes on track to balance the needs of its rural and urban users and protect the natural water resources that sustain our ecologic and economic health? Learn more
On October 31 the LCRA formally submitted an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) for the construction of a 138-kV transmission line project in Blanco, Gillespie and Kendall counties. Potentially impacted landowners should receive notice in the mail in the coming days. That information is also posted on the LCRA website. Potentially impacted landowners are encouraged to review the application documents, including the updated map, and participate in the PUC process. Landowners have until December 15 to become formal interveners in the PUC review process. More information and instructions on accessing LCRA TSCs complete CCN application are available here.
Last week, the San Antonio City Council unanimously voted in front of a packed chamber to approve a controversial pipeline that would bring in groundwater from 142 miles away. The $3.4 billion project would pipe in 16 billion gallons of water each year from Central Texas' Burleson County. Read the full story as well as related stories leading up to this vote in the Texas Tribune.
The Community Gardens Program recently announced that the Bamberger Foundation will be funding a new urban garden in San Antonio. The garden will emulate many of the practices set forth by J. David Bamberger at the award winning Bamberger Ranch Preserve in Johnson City. Learn more
Driving through western portions of Austin, maybe youve noticed scenic, tree-covered hills spreading across the landscape and wondered when they will become a new shopping area or residential development. While growth is inevitable, it is also important to preserve land for the environmental benefits it provides. Learn more
Water is a hot topic in Texas and its getting hotter. Register for Trib + Water to stay informed. This bi-weekly newsletter is brought to you at no cost by The Meadows Center for the Environment and The Texas Tribune.
The project is much too important and costly for San Antonio not to have a full and complete understanding about the reliability of the groundwater supply. Read more from this open-letter by Dr. Curtis Chubb, rancher and groundwater expert, published in the Rivard Report. Citizens have the opportunity to address the San Antonio City Council each Wednesday at 6:00 pm. The Alamo Group of the Sierra Club has created a clearinghouse of articles and reports to keep you informed. SA City Council is likely to vote on the project Thursday, October 30th.
This historic decision puts us within reach of purchasing the entire tract of land and protecting the habitat Brackens bats have used for thousands of years. Read more from Bat Conservation International. San Antonio is one of the fastest growing cities in the county, in part because of the vast natural resources of the region. Its our responsibility to ensure we protect and conserve what makes this region incredibly special. Councilman Ron Nirenburg, quoted in the Rivard Report.
There's a lot of evidence that millennials don't drive as much or care as much for cars in general as previous generations their own age did. They're less likely to get driver's licenses. They tend to take fewer car trips, and when they do, those trips are shorter. They're also more likely than older generations to get around by alternative means: by foot, by bike, or by transit. There's still a lot of dispute, however, over exactly what these trends mean. Read more from the Washington Post.
"Everything from urban development to dance hall preservation was on the agenda at the Hill Country Alliance 2014 Leadership Summit, held Thursday at the Nimitz Hotel Ballroom." Read the full article from the Fredericksburg Standard.
We are reaching a point in Texas where simply standing on common ground is not enough. The lives of urban and rural Texans are irreversibly intertwined, so we must all join forces to create and define initiatives and policies that conserve the common good, while protecting the heritage of private landowners. Read more of David K. Langford's guest blog for the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation.
Most food growers rely on tap water to keep their plants alive during dry weather, but gardeners are discovering that chemicals in tap water harm the soil organisms that plants depend upon to absorb nutrients. As a result, more and more gardeners are storing rainwater. Read more from Sustainable Food Center.
For the past year, San Antonio City officials, Bat Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy and many other organizations and community leaders have been searching for a solution to avert a 3,500-home development over the Edwards Aquifer and adjacent to Bracken Cave Preserve. Next week, San Antonio's city council will meet to vote on whether to invest $5 million from their Edwards Aquifer Protection Program toward the purchase of the property and a conservation easement to protect aquifer recharge. Learn more from BCI.
City Council chambers filled Wednesday evening with more than 100 people who signed up to speak for or against the proposed SAWS-Vista Ridge Consortium water agreement. Individuals were given two minutes to express their views, while group representatives were allotted five minutes. Read more from the Rivard Report.
I have never understood why in Texas zoning laws are good for city mice but not for country mice, especially as we lose more and more of the open land that is necessary to our survival as a species every year, but that is the way it is and there seems to be no way to change it until Texans get tired of seeing our state gobbled up by strip malls and truck stops and march on the state capitol armed with shotguns and pruning hooks. Read this personal story about the Hill Country, by Lonn Taylor, featured in The Big Bend Sentinel. Learn more about County Authority in Texas here.
The public is invited to learn more about the process to develop a Roadway Character Plan for FM 150 from near Arroyo Ranch Road northwest through the Driftwood to RR 12 in Dripping Springs at an October 16 meeting. Hays County Commissioners Will Conley and Ray Whisenant are hosting the meeting to share information about the roadway and gather ideas from the public about what this important cross-county road needs to look like as changes are phased in to improve mobility and safety. Details
..the effects of human endeavors all around the planet can be gauged by listening to the sounds of different habitats. Wild, urban, rural they all can be interpreted. Read more from Bernie Krause in Call of the Wild, featured in Sun Magazine. Find out what neighbors are doing through the Noise Pollution Clearning House.
Through Texas Land Trends, we have been able to raise awareness that Yes, we have a lot of land in Texas, but we are losing it at a faster rate than most other states in the country, and that loss is having profound impacts on our agricultural base, our water resources and our native wildlife habitat, Fitzsimons said. Read more about Land Trends.
A community workshop will be held October 9th from 68 pm as part of a Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) process, a planning approach that invites the surrounding communities and neighborhoods to influence the design, so that it reflects their cultural and historic values and aesthetic preferences. Learn more about the event hosted by the CTRMA and TxDot. Explore http://Fix290.org for more information.
HCA has released their 9th Texas Hill Country Calendar. Once again, this calendar delivers stunning photography while remaining an informative resource on Hill Country conservation. The stunning photographs featured throughout the 2015 calendar were chosen from nearly 400 submissions to HCAs 2014 Photo Contest. Learn more
San Antonio is one step closer to buying some of the most expensive water ever sold in Texas, just as the deal is drawing more critics. Read more from Texas Tribune.
at Cibolo Nature Center & Farm on Oct. 6-11 Volunteers interested in learning about Hill Country wildlife and contributing to its scientific study are encouraged to become citizen scientists during the Wildlife Field Research bio-blitz taking place Oct. 6-11 at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm. Wildlife Field Research is open to participants of all ages and skill levels. Learn more
The Highway Beautification Act will be 50 years old next year. As envisioned by Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson, it was supposed to protect the natural landscape from billboards. Ever since its passage, scenic activists and billboard companies have been at war over the views along American highways. More from NPR.
The San Antonio Water System Board will vote Monday on a $3.40-billion landmark water deal that would pipe in 50,000 acre-feet of water to San Antonio annually as soon as 2019, enough to meet 20% of the growing citys future water needs. Read more from the Rivard Report.
Mondays vote by SAWS is step one, San Antonio City Council will ultimately consider and vote on the Vista Ridge Pipeline Project. Who is this water for? Where will it ultimately go? Who will ultimately pay and what are the long-term financial implications? Show up at UTSA Monday night for a balanced panel discussion. Get educated and get involved. Event details
The 522 page draft contract for this $3.4 billion deal was posted on-line on September 23rd, giving the SAWS Board and the public less than a week to review a deal that will have far reaching implications for our community, including an estimated 16% rate hike for SAWS customers. Read more from GEAA. As Margaret Day of the Alamo Sierra Club points out to be sustainable, aquifer drawdown should be no greater than recharge. Read this opinion piece from the Alamo Sierran Word.
Travis County is seeking public comments by Wednesday, Oct 1st on their Land, Water and Transportation plan. Read the plan, take the survey and/or send your comments via email. Meanwhile, CAMPO is taking comments until Oct 6th on a variety of projects including a study to construct a major tollway across sensitive preserve lands. Traffic solution costly, harmful to environment Read City to oppose proposed tollroad in the Austin American Statesmen.
The League of Women Voters of Comal Area invites the public to attend The Trinity Aquifer: A Shared Resource/ A Shared Responsibility, to be held October 7 in Canyon Lake. If you drink water in Comal County, you are likely to be drinking Trinity water, or you soon will be. It is up to all of us to learn more about this resource, no matter where in Comal County we live. Learn more
It's no secret that drought has been a major factor in the declining water levels of our lakes and reservoirs here in Texas. But there is another factor that has has received very little attention - evaporation. Read more from Texas Living Waters.
The stars may seem a little brighter over Kerrville next year. The Kerrville Public Utility Board last week set aside about $734,000 to upgrade 2,000 city street lights to full cut-off, high-efficiency LED lamps that wont shine light upward. Read More from the Kerrville Daily Times.
Last weeks Water Crisis event hosted by The Hays County Citizens Alliance for Responsible Development (CARD) drew a huge crowd and continues to create a lot of meaningful conversations about how rural lands west of I-35 will be developed. Learn more
Even as Cibolo Nature Center staffers celebrate a major milestone with the completed restoration of the historic Herff farmhouse, they're setting ambitious new goals. Read more from SA Express-News.
Central Texas is having a pretty decent year, rain-wise. Were sitting just below normal. But these big rain events all have something in common: They really havent fallen where we need them most. The watershed that helps our water supplies isnt here in Austin; its way up into the counties to the north of us." Read more from State Impact.
Land fragmentation has been a growing problem for Texas, and by all appearances it isnt going to slow any time soon. The states population continues to grow rapidly, and those residents have an insatiable appetite for land. Read more from Livestock Weekly.
As the current drought reminds us, water continues to impact the sustainability and growth of Texas' economy. Unfortunately, land is disappearing faster than in any other state, threatening the water resources on which our economy depends. Land conservation is a cost-effective water resource protection strategy. Join TALT October 1st in Austin.
With cool weather around the corner, the Texas Outdoor Family program has scheduled outdoor recreational workshops statewide though the beginning of December. The workshops offer a low-cost weekend trip where families can un-plug, reconnect with nature, and learn the basics of camping. Read more from Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Water marketers who want to sell to cities say theres plenty of groundwater, however landowners and conservationists warn that this precious resource could drain in a few decades. Whats the long-term impact on the Colorado River as the groundwater table declines? Who exactly is this water for and what are they willing to pay? Read this excellent article by Neena Satija, Texas Tribune.
ACC Professor Don Jonsson takes an interesting look at various degrees of consensus about what geography is included in the Hill Country. His data shows Luckenbach as generally the mean center of the region and the Pedernales River Basin 100% Texas Hill Country. View his project findings, map and summary. HCA has a plethora of helpful Hill Country map resources available online and as well as an interactive map viewer.
Landowner groups and Wildlife Coops Heres something worth passing along to your member lists. Wild Pigs are an issue throughout the Hill Country region. Heres an opportunity to learn from the comfort of your own ranch/home computer. Dial in September 18th to from noon to 1:00. Find out how to access this webinar made possible by the Texas Wildlife Association.
The effects of population growth on traffic are easy to understand. More people equal more cars on the road. More cars on the road equal more congestion. Duh! The real culprit is the rate at which new people are moving here. Read one bold Austinite's views (who happens to also be a Real Estate Developer) about the real issue facing Austin (and the Hill Country) population. Ed Wendler, Special to the Austin American Statesman.
to host a free community meeting this Thursday to discuss why water is an increasingly critical issue, and how we can all be part of improving the outlook. Speakers include Andy Sansom, Executive Director of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, Steve Clouse, Chief Operating Officer of San Antonio Water Systems, Ray Whisenant, Hays County Commissioner, Peter Newell, Water Resources Engineer at HDR Engineering, and Bech Bruun of the TWDB. Details
The Fix 290 Coalition, a group of over 40 organizations and businesses and 2,800 petition signers, have been advocating for a parkway" concept to move traffic through Oak Hill and protect the original character and unique natural environment of the area for more than a decade. The City of Austin is now asking for a study of this community driven parkway alternative to TxDots traditional elevated/frontage road model. Read more from Fix290.
On Saturday, September 6th the Hill Country Alliance hosted a landowner workshop for those landowners potentially impacted by the LCRA's proposed Blumenthal substation and transmission line project. The workshop featured an update from the LCRA on the status of their application to the Public Utility Commission, and a panel discussion of landowner rights during the transmission line routing and construction process. To read a more detailed summary of the event and access speaker presentations, click here.
A decade ago, prospective water marketers easily secured the rights to pump more than 20 billion gallons of water annually from the Carrizo-Wilcox aquifer in Central Texas Burleson County. The company now holding those rights, BlueWater, is negotiating a $3 billion deal to send much of that water to San Antonio. Read more from The Texas Tribune.
February 28 in Kerrville - Wildlife Tax Valuation Workshop, part 3 of 3 - Details
March 4-6 in Austin - 2015 Texas Land Conservation Conference hosted by the Texas Land Trust Council - Details
March 25 in San Antonio - Saving Family Lands Seminar - Hosted by Texas Agricultural Land Trust - Details
March 26-29 in Brackettville - Advanced Women of the Land Workshop by TWA - Details
March 28 in Austin - Native Plant Society Spring Symposium at the Wildflower Center - Details
March 28 in Stonewall 8th Annual LBJ 100 Bike Tour - Details
April 9 - Six-county wildlife program and tour by Texas Agri-Life Extention - Participating counties: Mason, Menard, McCulloch, Llano, Gillespie & Kimble - Details
April 22 in Jourdanton - Agri-life Workshop - Presentations by HCA's Sky Jones Lewey, Rainwater Harvesting Expert John Kight and more - Details
April 23-24 in Kerrville - The second annual Bennett Land Stewardship: Keys to Hill Country Living" - Details
See more upcoming events
Runs March 1 - May 31
Enter Now!
Imagine a place where vibrant communities draw strength from their natural assets to sustain their quality of life. A place where citizens care about protecting the special qualities of a region their region. A place where people and partners band together to envision a better economic future, tackle shared challenges and care for the natural, scenic, and recreational resources that define the place they call home.
~This is a Conservation Landscape
Hill Country View
Listen and Learn
Helpful Mapping Resources - Beautiful and informative maps of the region to print and share.
HCA Dynamic Mapping Tool - Interactive online GIS mapping tool


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Due to overwhelming demand, some more tickets have been made available for the April 29 show at Concrete Street Amphitheater in Corpus Christi. Click here to buy yours while they last.
Deftones' new single "Diamond Eyes" is now available in the UK!
Download the single on iTunes now.
Keep your eyes peeled for a very special Deftones show to be announced soon with tickets available exclusively through UKU. Also, if you missed out on the limited "Rocket Skates" 7-inch on Record Store Day, you can grab one for a limited time through the UKU store here.
There are two ways to pre-order:
Pre-Order Diamond Eyes from iTunes for the deluxe digital version including three bonus tracks
Pre-Order Diamond Eyes from Newbury Comics is now SOLD OUT!
Deftones will perform at Live105's annual BFD concert on June 6 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA. Tickets go on sale April 25. Head to Live105.com for more details.
Deftones will perform May 26th in Milwaukee at The Rave. Tickets go on sale through Ticketmaster beginning April 24 @ 10am.
Deftones will perform May 21 in Grand Rapids, MI at The Orbit Room. Click here to buy tickets now!

subset: commoncrawl


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Home and Office security has a wide variety of uses and applications. The protection equipment which come under this umbrella range from cameras to hidden aids for your stuff.
Three (3) types of equipment:


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Order uniforms of your own club on our teampages!
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White Ella Chandelier
No longer available
- Overview
Scrolling iron stems drip with sparkling glass crystals on our beautiful three-arm chandelier.
- 13" wide x 13" deep x 22" high
- Cast of iron with a painted finish.
- Arms are detailed with leaves.
- Faceted glass drops.
- Hardwire; professional installation recommended.
- UL-listed.
- Catalog / Internet only.
- Dimensions & Care
- Overall: 13" wide x 13" deep x 22" high
- Bulb (3): 40 watts, type B (not included)
- Chain: 12' long
- Wipe clean using a soft, dry cloth or static duster.
- Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and abrasives to clean fixture as they may damage the finish.
- Do not exceed the specified wattage.
- Shipping Info
Please allow 5-7 business days for delivery. Delivery estimate includes monogrammed and gift-wrapped items.
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Silk Cord Cover
Silk Cord Cover
reg. price $25 special $20


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quote:You have just been sent the following note from We Goin' H.A.M.! (Sarah) in the Yahoo! Sports Fantasy Football league named Do Your Job (454807)... This is my first time playing fantasy! I wasn't sure how trading worked, and I didn't mean to trade Matthew Stafford for Matt Schuab. I see that I can't cancel the trade, but that everyone can vote against it! Help out a first timer?! Please?! I'm learning! :D Thanks! Sarah --Fantasy Football Commissioner LINK
quote:Want Battle Brodeur? LINK


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Good job! Congrats!
Good job! Congrats!
-NRA Life Member
-Wild Sheep Foundation, <1 club
Great looking bull, congratulations!
B&C / P&Y Official Measurer
Good looking Utah bull, congrats!
Shoot STR8
Great Bull
Congrats, good bull!!!
way to "git er done"
I Love the smell of Elk in the mornin
The arrow is everything


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OK I left the house at 4:30 AM and I DID NOT post on PB
Please forgive moi :(
In Washington everything is on a grand scale including Union Station...
And the Metro is divine.
Hello NYC MTA? Faites attention!
The Alliance Francaise de Washington is right in the midst of embassy row. Row upon row of simply gorgeous maisons...
My name was on the door...I have to crow a bit :)
A Photo by Marine Cornuet
Darlene insisted I have the crab cakes, fried green tomatos and grits. These are the best crab cakes on the planet IMHO.


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You don't get it do you? Its still here! IT still exists! We just have to wait a while for... call it Tome 2 (aka Afterbirth)
Barrahir wrote:Oh, Im aware it will probably not come out soon at all. I just noticed that some people hadn't heard of Afterbirth and wanted to say it And so I quoted the well-familiar guy with green skin and burning hair
SableTheFabled wrote:Blood. Are you sure After Birth is the next arc? I thought it was a prequel to GT. Explaining Jr's birth ect.
SableTheFabled wrote:Blood. Are you sure After Birth is the next arc? I thought it was a prequel to GT. Explaining Jr's birth ect.
JinJoe wrote:http://bleedman.deviantart.com/art/GTAB ... -115106824
No.Nell-X wrote:Blood Lord, has there been any new clues or hints as to who the father of Jr. is?
JinJoe wrote:If he had left it as it is then people would start to ponder as to how a skeleton can impregnate a woman.
He came up with this answer: "I know! It's because skeleton CAN'T impregnate a woman so they have to find another means to have a son."
By using an advanced form of necromancy perhaps?Ryley wrote:"How does a human child get killed and reanimated as a living skeleton?"
Because abortion doesn't require a Cesarean section.Nell-X wrote:And since Jr. was aborted, why isn't there a scar on Mandy's stomach?
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Star Wars™ Beach Wrap
No longer available
- Overview
Who better to guard a youngster's spot on the beach or by the pool than Darth Vader™, the galaxy's most popular villain, portrayed on our beach wrap in all his dark glory.
- 30" wide x 50" long
- Pure cotton velour front reverses to looped pure cotton terry.
- 400-gram weight.
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- Machine wash.
- Imported.
- Dimensions & Care
- Woven of premium cotton that's incredibly soft and absorbent.
- Oeko-Tex certified, the world's definitive mark of excellence for products that are healthy for your children and healthy for the environment.
- Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is an indicator of the protection a fabric provides against ultraviolet rays. UPF 50+ is the highest possible rating.
- Wrap: 30" wide x 50" long
- Hood: 10" wide x 20" long
- Machine wash in warm water, gentle cycle.
- Use only nonchlorine bleach if needed.
- Tumble dry on low heat; remove promptly.
- Warm iron as needed.
- Shipping Info
Please allow 5-7 business days for delivery. Delivery estimate includes monogrammed and gift-wrapped items.
To confirm delivery time frames in your area, please call 800.993.4923.


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quote:1. Notre Dame 2. Alabama 3. Oregon 4. Georgia 5. Florida State 6. Kansas State 7. Florida 8. LSU 9. Texas A&M 10. Clemson
quote:LOL They wouldn't have 6 wins in the SEC.
quote:The SEC's elite teams, all lost to each other, and by single scores, in wirejob dogfights with no quit in 'em.
quote:K State is better than Georgia and Florida. Bad games happen.
quote:The top teams in the SEC would never lose a game like that. At least not in recent years.
quote:The top SEC teams don't play the #2 offense in the country
quote:he top SEC teams don't play the #2 offense in the country


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by Garon Cockrell
Cloud Cult: "Love" (2013) CD Review
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By Garon Cockrell
Recent Posts
Theater Review: Hair Live at the Hollywood Bowl #HAIRatthebowl
Aug. 3, 2014 5:20 a.m.
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Cloud Cult had its late-night television debut on
Last Call With Carson Daly
. A friend and
I were at that taping, and that was my introduction to this wonderful band.
Since then, I�ve immersed myself in several of Cloud Cult�s recordings. And
yes, this is the kind of music you want to immerse yourself in, sink into, and
explore. This band has its own particular sound, creates its own universe. The
sound can be dense and intricate, gorgeous and moving, but always, always
They�ve become known for their live shows, where they
have artists paint to the music. And no, they�re certainly not the first band
to do this. But theirs is the kind of music that lends itself to this sort of exploration
and interpretation in other art forms. The paintings are then auctioned off, so
fans can take home a singular souvenir of the concert.
Cloud Cult is also known for its environmentally friendly
CD packaging. The case for
made of 100% post-consumer recycled paperboard, and the plastic CD tray is made
from recycled plastic with at least 35% post-consumer materials.
All of that is wonderful. But of course what is most
important is the music.
some excellent material, my favorites being "You're The Only Thing In
Your Way," "Good Friend" and "Meet Me Where You're Going." All of the
songs on this album were written by Craig Minowa.
�You�re The Only
Thing In Your Way�
opens with
a beautiful, sad tune titled �You�re The Only Thing In Your Way.� This is a
seriously strong track, and is one of my favorites. It begins like a folk tune,
with acoustic guitar and vocals, his voice right in your ear as he sings �
Drive, baby, drive, until your trouble�s
gone/Run, baby, run, until it all goes numb
This one really hits me, in part because of
the lines, �
Nothing here can get in your
way/You�ve come too far to care what they say/Now you�re the only thing in your
.� But of course sometimes that�s the toughest, most formidable
obstacle. I absolutely love this song.
�It�s Your
�It�s Your Decision� begins with strings, sounding
gorgeous. This song starts slowly, with the lines �
Will you sink today/Or let it float away/It�s your decision
.� Then
there are wonderful touches on piano as the song builds with the drums � until
it bursts to another plateau. It has a great, powerful build. Turn this one up,
let it sweep you up in its arms and carry you. �
I�ve got work to do/Disarming land mines/If I hold it in, I�ll just
blow up again/My trigger finger�s twitching
�Love And The
First Law Of Thermodynamics�
�Love And The First Law Of Thermodynamics� is a really
interesting instrumental track that takes you on a journey. Close your eyes,
and see what imagery it evokes for you.
�Good Friend�
�Good Friend� is probably my favorite song on this album.
I seriously dig the drums on this track. They kick off the song with a great,
powerful groove. The lyrics are good as well: �
We are not broken ones/Just shattered pieces of the same bright
sun/Trying to figure out which way to run/And we can�t do this alone/All I need
is a good, good friend/To get me through this
.� And this song itself has a
friendly feel to it. It is a song to make you feel closer to the rest of
humanity, a sort of reminder that our basic needs are the same. It�s a song to
remove all the layers of nonsense we coat ourselves with.
�Meet Me Where
You�re Going�
�Meet Me Where You�re Going� is another of my favorites.
It has a friendly folk feel, with positive lyrics like, �
Every day with you I say I do/And it means so much more each time
This is a song to raise one�s spirits and bring people together. It�s a sweet
love song, with a pretty a cappella section where the voices blend well
�Sleepwalker� features some cool percussion to kick it
off. The song is a call to those who sleepwalk through their lives to wake up
before it�s too late. Craig Minowa asks, �
is your passion? Where is your wonder? Where is your thankfulness?
� The
song soon explodes with a heavy energy, and even has some techno elements. It then
becomes quiet, intimate again �
�Where is
your joyfulness? Where is your empathy?
� It�s a fantastic song.
�The Show Starts
with �The Show Starts Now,� which features the line �
I want to be the guy who lives in the moment, not so lost in my mind
That�s a line I can relate to. It turns out not to be all that easy, at least
as I�ve found it. �The Show Starts Now� also has some wonderfully aggressive
CD Track List
You�re The Only Thing In Your Way
It�s Your Decision
Complicated Creation
All The Things We Couldn�t See
The Calling
LoveAnd The First Law Of Thermodynamics
Good Friend
Meet Me Where You�re Going
It Takes A Lot
The Show Starts Now
is scheduled
to be released on March 5, 2013 through Earthology Records, the band�s own
(Note: I've also posted this review on my music blog:
Cloud Cult: "Love."
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FREE Email Newsletter
Daily industrial news and top headlines for plant and maintenance managers
Top Pratt & Whitney Exec To Testify On Layoffs
January 13, 2010 3:51 am | News | CommentsBRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) — Pratt & Whitney's top executive is likely to testify in federal court near the end of a series of hearings over the jet engine manufacturer's plans to move 1,000 jobs out of Connecticut. David Hess, president of the East Hartford subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.
Toxco Moves To Prevent Battery Explosion Repeat
January 13, 2010 3:46 am | News | CommentsTRAIL, B.C. (CP) — A Trail, B.C. battery recycling plant is calling in some outside help to avoid a repeat of a spectacular explosion and fire in November. U.S.-based Toxco, Inc. has retained consultants to provide advice on better building design, evaluate the process of battery receiving, storage and treatment, and prepare a risk management plan.
Asian Automakers Fight To Keep U.S. Market Share
January 13, 2010 3:45 am | by David Runk, Associated Press Writer | News | CommentsDETROIT (AP) — Asian automakers grabbed their biggest chunk ever of the U.S. car and truck market in 2009, but they'll struggle to build on that momentum this year as rivals in Detroit offer a fleet of efficient, small cars. All automakers that sell cars and trucks in the U.S. will try to woo cautious consumers still nervous about heavy debt, high unemployment and rising gas prices.
White House: Stimulus Has Created 2 Million Jobs
January 13, 2010 3:38 am | by Mark S. Smith, Associated Press Writer | News | CommentsWASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is trumpeting a new White House estimate that his top economist calls "stunning": His stimulus plan has already created or saved up to 2 million jobs. The analysis is part of the administration's quarterly report to Congress on the controversial $787 billion package of spending and tax cuts he signed weeks after taking office.
The Boy Who Harnessed The Playstation
January 13, 2010 3:22 am | Blogs | CommentsI'm the "boy who harnessed the Playstation." And for what, exactly? Let me explain. A while back I learned about the accomplished life of one William Kamkwamba, an African who, at the age of 14, built a windmill from trash (yes, literally) in order to keep his starving family alive.
Chinese Manufacturers Unconcerned About Cadmium Dangers
January 13, 2010 3:13 am | by Alexa Olesen and Eugene Hoshiko, Associated Press Writers | News | CommentsYIWU, China (AP) — For China's low-cost jewelry makers, it was an open trade secret: The metal cadmium is shiny, strong and malleable at low temperatures, regardless of its health hazards. And it's cheap. Despite the risks, manufacturers in factories ringing this city on China's east coast say their top priority is profit.
Detroit Auto Show, Day 2: Tiny Cars, Touchscreens
January 13, 2010 3:12 am | by The Associated Press | News | CommentsA roundup of news and notes out of the Detroit auto show on Monday: __ Korean car maker to make electric vehicles in U.S. DETROIT (AP) — South Korean electric car maker CT&T said Tuesday it will begin producing electric cars in the U.S. this year. The company makes low-speed two-seaters and golf cart-style vehicles as well as the City EV, which can reach 65 miles per hour and travel up to 70 miles on an electric charge.
Heavy-Duty Multitasking Mezzanines
January 12, 2010 7:56 am | Product Releases | CommentsDelta Industrial (Chesterfield, MI) has a range of mezzanine systems designed for both large and small facilities, making them ideal for in-plant offices, storage, industrial platforms, catwalks, and conveyor integration. Features of Delta's mezzanine systems include: Customer-designed specifications.
Expand Your Pump Possibilities
January 12, 2010 7:55 am | Product Releases | CommentsTime Mark (Tulsa, OK) announces their new Model 42X Pump Expansion Unit, which can control up to 3 pumps with a 4-20mA input. Alarm inputs for seal failure, over-temp, contactor fail, and a spare (a second seal fail, for example) are available. Configuration for the 42X is completed via a PC through a USB cable, and the software shows current depth, pump status with run time meters, and alarm status.
Thermal Printing, Worry-Free
January 12, 2010 7:55 am | Product Releases | CommentsTharo Systems (Brunswick, OH) has extended the warranty for its H-400 Series of thermal transfer printers. Effective immediately, the new warranty will cover the H-427 and H-436 printers for two years. In addition, Tharo will warranty the printhead for two years/two million inches for thermal transfer, or 500,000 inches for direct thermal applications.
Keep Your Flow In Check
January 12, 2010 7:49 am | Product Releases | CommentsA new flow conditioner from Westfall Manufacturing (Bristol, RI), the Model 3000, has been designed to achieve a fully-developed velocity profile with minimal head loss (K=0.579). The Model 3000 mounts directly into a piping system and features four leading tabs and four anti-swirl plates that suppress turbulence to produce a developed velocity profile within eight diameters downstream.
Five Commandments For The Next Industry Leaders
January 12, 2010 6:50 am | by George Young, founding partner, Kalypso | Articles | CommentsThis month, the food and beverage (F&B) industry is embarking not only on a new year, but the dawn of a new decade—one driven by the demands of a new consumer reality focused on value, food safety, health and wellness, and environmental sustainability.
China To Investigate Cadmium-Laced Jewelry Exports
January 12, 2010 3:52 am | by Jeremiah Marquez, AP Business Writer | News | CommentsHONG KONG (AP) — China's product safety agency will look into findings that dangerous levels of cadmium are being used in exports of children's jewelry, a Chinese official said Tuesday following growing concern in the United States about the products. Attending a toy safety conference in Hong Kong, the official said that his agency only just learned of findings in an Associated Press investigation published Sunday and would examine the findings on cadmium contamination.
Dozens Of Chinese Power Plants Nearly Without Coal
January 12, 2010 3:45 am | by Joe McDonald, AP Business Writer | News | CommentsBEIJING (AP) — Dozens of Chinese power plants are running out of coal and might be forced to shut down this week as bitter winter cold boosts demand and snow hampers delivery of new supplies, state media said Tuesday. Factories have been closed in parts of central China where power demand exceeds supply but analysts said they expected no immediate impact on the economy.
Detroit Auto Show Recap: Everything You Need To Know
January 12, 2010 3:40 am | by The Associated Press | News | CommentsA roundup of highlights and news out of the Detroit auto show on Monday: Chrysler may rehire workers if sales forecasts met DETROIT (AP) — Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne said the automaker will start hiring production workers again if it sells enough cars and trucks. Marchionne said at the Detroit auto show that Chrysler Group LLC is revamping its models and will need more engineering and development workers.
Pelosi: Big 3 Bailout An Automotive 'Renaissance'
January 12, 2010 3:37 am | by Ken Thomas, Associated Press Writer | News | CommentsDETROIT (AP) — House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and top Obama administration officials on Monday defended last year's federal bailout of the auto industry, citing optimism that General Motors and Chrysler had made strides only months after exiting bankruptcy. "What we see here today is a renaissance," Pelosi said.
ABB Plant To Reopen Thursday After Shooting
January 12, 2010 3:35 am | News | CommentsST. LOUIS (AP) — The ABB Inc. plant in St. Louis will reopen on Thursday, one week after a disgruntled employee shot and killed three co-workers and injured five others before turning the gun on himself. Employees learned of the reopening on Monday, the same day the first of the victims, 27-year-old Cory Wilson of Collinsville, Ill.
Ford To Invest $450m, Create 1,000 Jobs In Michigan
January 12, 2010 3:29 am | by Tim Martin, Associated Press Writer | News | CommentsLANSING, Mich. (AP) — Ford Motor Co. announced Monday it will invest another $450 million and create about 1,000 jobs as it further consolidates its electric vehicle program in southeast Michigan. The new jobs are mostly tied to advanced lithium ion battery production, including some work shifted from Mexico to Michigan.
Quality Assurance On A Massive Scale
January 11, 2010 9:40 am | Articles | CommentsIn the fast-growing market for wind power systems, quality assurance according to international industrial standards has become an important issue. Wind power plants are no longer a niche playground for environmental proponents, but a serious business where cost efficiency, life cycle costs, reliability, and availability of the components must be considered.
Quick, Get Me Some Meds
January 11, 2010 9:03 am | by by Carrie Ellis, Editor, Chem.Info | Blogs | CommentsSo, a new linguistic idiosyncrasy has sent me into dead lurch toward the First Aid kit for the family anti-anxiety elixir. It's the abbreviated noun form of medicine — now commonly known as meds — and it's coming soon to a too-close-for-discomfort dialog near you.


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Tendons connect muscle to bone and often connect near a joint. Tendinopathy is an injury to the tendon. It can cause pain and swelling and makes it difficult to move. Tendinopathy may be:
- Tendonitis—inflammation of the tendon
- Tendinosis—tiny tears in the tendon with no major inflammation
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. An achilles tendinopathy is pain in this tendon.
Tendinopathy is generally caused by overuse of a muscle-tendon unit. Over time, the strain on the tendon causes structural changes within the tendon.
Overuse of the Achilles tendon can occur with activities such as:
- Increasing your speed or running long distances too quickly
- Suddenly adding strenuous hills or stair climbing to your exercise routine
- Doing too much too soon after taking time away from exercising
- A sudden or violent contraction of the calf muscles, such as during an all-out sprint
- Running too much
- Lack of flexibility of the calf muscles
Risk Factors
Achilles tendinopathy is more common in older adults due to the aging process. Factors that may increase your risk of getting Achilles tendinopathy include:
- Improper or badly worn footwear
- Inflexibility of the calf muscles
- An improper training program—such as increasing intensity too quickly
Symptoms of tendinopathy may include:
- Tenderness—usually just above the heel bone and often more noticeable in the morning
- Stiffness that gradually eases as the tendon is warmed-up
- Pain after activity that gradually worsens
- Pain along the tendon during and/or after running
- Swelling in the area of the Achilles tendon
- Pain at the back of the ankle
You will be asked about your symptoms and exercise habits. A physical exam will be done. A diagnosis will be made based on the exam and history.
Images of the bones and tendons may be taken. This can be done with:
Tendinopathy and the associated pain may take months to resolve. It can be frustrating, but it is important to follow through with the advised treatment.
Rest and Ice
Rest and ice are the first steps. Take a break from any activity that causes pain. Switch to activities that do not put stress on the tendon. Avoid uphill and irregular surfaces. Swimming is a good option. When the pain has gone, gradually increase your activity levels.
Place ice or an ice pack on the area for 15-20 minutes at a time. This can help the first few days after the injury. It may also help after activity, if you have activity-related pain.
Foot and Ankle Support
You may be advised to wear a shoe insert. It will place your foot in the correct position for walking and running.
Taping your ankle during activity may also help. Talk to your doctor or a physical therapist before using this option. They can show you the proper way to wrap your foot.
Physical Therapy
More severe or recurring injuries may need physical therapy. Therapy may include:
- Stretching
- Massage
- Ultrasound
- Strengthening exercises that focus on the calf muscles
- Balance activities
To help manage pain your doctor may advise:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Topical pain relievers that are applied to the skin
- Prescription pain relievers
To decrease your chances of getting Achilles tendonitis:
- Wear appropriate footwear for your sport.
Do not use shoes beyond the advised duration. This will depend on:
- How frequently you exercise
- The surface on which you exercise
- The conditions in which you exercise
- Gradually add hill work, stairs, speed, and distance to your routine.
- Stretch and strengthen the calf muscles regularly.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT
- Review Date: 03/2015 -
- Update Date: 02/28/2014 -


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If you clicked on the info icon or the "Stats / Notes / Bio" link, you've reached this page which contains notes, memories, trivia and more about Andy Carey. If you have anything to add to this player's information, an interesting bit of trivia or a personal memory or story about Andy, please feel free to share it with us by filling out the form at the bottom of the page. Be sure to include your name and town.
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June 1, 1958: Andy goes 5 for 5 with three runs scored, a double, two home runs and four RBI in a 10-4 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. The effort helped the Yankees improve their record to 27-10 and backed a complete game effort by Bob Turley who improved to 8-1 on the season.
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Join iPrefer now for free upgrade - free internet - and earn points at over 400 Preferred Hotel Group hotels – Enroll now at www.iPrefer.com
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Select dates, number of rooms, adults/children, and click Check Availability.
The BLVD Hotels offer covered parking for overnight guests. Parking rates are $20 per vehicle per night


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quote:American Horror Story
quote:I just got back from a glorious saturated fat laden lunch.
quote:Fin- my hubs is still all over this Texas land site He keeps sending me links. I think he is hoping we win the lottery that we don't play.
quote:last night i pan fried some back


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January 29, 2015
There are many reasons why Montpelier keeps showing up on national lists of best small towns in America: Hubbard Park, the Farmers' Market, our vibrant downtown, our growing arts community and our good schools. My goal as mayor is to build on these great attributes and make Montpelier an even better place to live, work and play. We've made much progress this year on three of our primary goals to Montpelier an even better community: improving our roads and sidewalks, completing major projects, and restraining tax growth.
The FY 16 budget that the City Council preliminarily approved on January 7th would increase our tax rate by 2.5%. The budget preserves essential services while also increasing infrastructure spending by $166,000. With the passage of this budget, we will have seen total budget growth of 4% from FY 14-16, which is less than the rate of inflation during that time. By next June, we will be halfway towards our six-year goal of increasing infrastructure spending by one million dollars per year. We are beginning to see meaningful progress in repairing our deteriorated roads and sidewalks, and that progress will accelerate as spending continues to increase each year. At the same time, it has become more difficult each year to increase capital spending while maintaining reasonable growth in our tax rate. The city council had to make difficult budgetary choices this year, and those choices are going to become even harder in the coming years. I have proposed that we hold a public engagement process this Spring to get input from Montpelier residents about how to address our budget and infrastructure challenges over the next three years. The challenge is this: we need to increase our capital spending by an additional $500, 000 per year to reach a sustainable maintenance level. Given our high property tax rate, however, we cannot afford to pay for that increase through higher taxes. I look forward to hearing ideas from city residents about how to meet that challenge.
We made great progress last year on the city's priority projects. The biomass distribution system was completed in 2014 and is providing renewably generated heat to city, state and private downtown office buildings. City Manager Bill Fraser, Assistant City Manager Jessie Baker, and the Department of Public Works staff deserve great credit for completing this project on time and within 5% of budget. The One Taylor Street project is well underway, with the basic design in place for a new transit center, 30-40 residential housing units, river access and a bike path. We now anticipate that construction will be completed by fall 2016. We're also making progress on the bike path extension from Granite Street to Gallison Hill Rd. The project has been designed and negotiations are underway for the necessary easements. The project is now expected to be finished in 2016.
I am excited about the progress we are making on the goal of Net Zero Montpelier. The City Council has adopted a goal of producing or offsetting all of its energy use with renewable energy by 2030. The Montpelier Energy Advisory Committee has received national recognition for its work on this project. I am hopeful that in 2015 we will develop specific, community-wide initiatives as we lead the way in transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. In partnership with Montpelier Alive, we have held a number of events that explore how we can improve the marketing and design of our downtown. We retained a consultant who led a community-wide process to redefine Montpelier's brand. That process led to the creation of a terrific new logo and a branding statement we can all be proud of. With the assistance of a federal grant, we engaged another consultant to guide us in rethinking ways to improve some of our downtown public space. Like any brainstorming process, not all of the ideas are appropriate for action. But some – like extending the bike path from the Recreation Center along Barre Street to Main Street and redesigning that intersection – merit further exploration. Finally, we held a community-wide Downtown Design Summit in November that was attended by nearly 100 residents. That summit produced many more ideas about how to make our downtown even more vibrant and pedestrian- and bike-friendly.
* * *
The real work on all of these initiatives is performed by our highly capable and dedicated city staff. Led by City Manager Bill Fraser and Assistant City Manager, we are fortunate to have incredibly talented and committed city employees who keep our streets clean, our homes safe and our community strong.
As always, I am grateful to have the privilege and honor to serve as mayor of our great small-town capital city. John Hollar


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Honorable Mention
(1st entry) Title: Together
For this poster I chose to illustrate the embracement of coexistence. The overlapping heads are a symbol of compatibility and oneness that is necessary to create a world where all cultures can live.
(2nd entry)Title: Harmony
For this poster I focused on rapprochement and the idea of restoring harmony across all cultures. I have woven the characters together in one cloth to resemble their unity. The characters are collectively delighted. They are thinking about a better Earth where all cultures live in harmony.


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Delivered on time, great product. The skin I ordered for my iPod classic looks as it does on the website, was easy to apply, (I even took it off and reapplied a few times without it losing its stick), and looks nice on my iPod. No complaints! :)Christine Hill, United States


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Willow River Company is a full service landscape contractor and tree farm who has been serving the eastern metro area since 1988. We are committed to excellence in customer satisfaction from in-house design conception to final clean-up. We are a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the local area for over 15 years. Come see our full scale nursery and tree production facility as well. Our home-grown advantage is sure to please.
Willow River Company has been providing high quality landscapes to the St. Croix River valley since 1988. Improving your landscape is an environmentally-friendly method of adding value to your home. Let our knowledge, expertise, and experience help you in providing solutions for your outdoor needs.
Hardscapes | Water Features | Landscapes | In-Floor Heat |
Nursery and Tree Farm
We offer a complete variety of plants for all of your needs. All plants are locally grown. This is a great opportunity to buy direct from the grower. Come see our full selection of shade, ornamental, and evergreen trees, along with a large variety of shrubs, and perennials.
Main Office
Nursery / Tree Farm
Landscape / Design
Home | Landscape Portfolio | Nursery & Tree Farm | Design | Contact Us


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Best Sellers
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The Best Sellers category at Pinnacle Promotions includes popular products from our diverse array of collections. These proven winners include items like cool games, bright tote bags, and practical desk sets. Inexpensive giveaways are a great way to expose prospective and current customers to your brand's name, and best selling products are tried and true favorites that will garner a high number of impressions for your imprinted message. As a marketing tool, they are an affordable and effective way to publicize your brand's offerings. Moreover, the value of using advertising products in your campaign is tremendous, and the fact that your customers are getting a product that fulfills a relevant function in their daily lives should stand you in good stead among your competitors. The thousands of impressions that they may receive over its lifetime will quickly and proactively help your logo and message permeate your target audience.


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Introduction to Programming, SCO 416
About this Course:
The course, Introduction to Programming, is not currently offered.
For more information on the many highly interactive online courses offered in cooperation with our Ed2Go partner, please visit www.ed2go.com/iit.
All Ed2Go courses run for six weeks (with a two-week grace period at the end). Courses are project-oriented and include lessons, quizzes, hands-on assignments, discussion areas, supplementary links and more. Participants can complete the course entirely from the home or office any time of the day or night.
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