All posts by Debby Thompson

E-cycling Available in WB!

Neighborhood News

Global Environmental Services (GES) is proud to partner with the Wells Branch Neighborhood Association to manage electronic waste during the Keep Wells Branch Beautiful Trash Off.  Electronics collection will be at the MUD maintenance yard on Thermal from 8am-5pm on Saturday, April 12.

Since 2008, GES has been a leader in electronic asset and parts recovery, electronics recycling, secure data destruction and managed technology services.   All equipment is responsibly processed in their 56,000 sf warehouse at the corner of Bratton Lane and Long Vista, ensuring zero waste recycling.

The process begins by having each item categorized according to the particular requirements needed to follow. The first goal is to reuse a whole unit as long as the customers allow it.  If the item can be resold, GES may prepare the piece of equipment to ensure any existing data is destroyed.  GES does offer programs for Return on Investment to share revenue on some items and their exact methodology provides accurate and precise reporting, as well as verification certifications.

If the equipment cannot be salvaged in whole, it may be de-manufactured, using a process of manual dismantling. Individual parts will be tested and may be resold BAN E-Stewards approved downstream diligence.

Continue reading E-cycling Available in WB! →

The Art at Bratton’s Edge • Affordable Housing Q & A • Thursday, 7pm • Community Center

Neighborhood News

Site PlanThe WBNA received notice February 18 of intent to build a small affordable housing complex on the five acre lot at the corner of Long Vista and Bratton Lane (across from Willow Bend Pool). If you own similar properties and may want to earn a profit from it, there are things you must take note of first like those rental property liabilities, for instance. Additionally, if you’re looking for a luxurious, yet affordable place to call home in the Myrtle Beach area, then you may check out The Market Common Homes for some options. This family compound in Ontario offers ample space for multi-generational living, with room for everyone to enjoy privacy and togetherness.

Everything is tentative at this point as they will not receive notice of approval or denial on funding before the end of July.  Sale of the property is contingent upon approval. West Virginia background check on a renter is crucial to make sure you pick a quality one. The developers have expressed a desire to work with the community and have requested a neighborhood meeting so that they may answer any questions you may have.  This meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, March 27, 7pm, at the Community Center.

This project is yet to start but in Abu Dhabi you can contact Gravity Real Estate to find affordable housing options. In a parallel realm of real estate endeavors, Abu Dhabi also witnesses the pursuit of affordable housing solutions. Finding mobile homes for sale is easier now that they have websites.

Amidst the captivating skyline and dynamic urban landscape, Gravity Real Estate emerges as a beacon of reliability and expertise. With their extensive portfolio and unparalleled knowledge of the local market, Gravity Real Estate stands ready to assist individuals seeking affordable accommodations in the vibrant city, where dreams seamlessly merge with reality. For those looking to sell quickly, a reliable service like cash home buyers seattle can ensure a smooth and efficient transaction. The experience of cash buyers in handling swift sales can be particularly advantageous for those needing to relocate or resolve urgent financial matters. Additionally, for buyers interested in properties in tropical settings, a good place like Yourkohsamuivillas.com can offer a diverse selection of villas and homes that cater to various needs and budgets.

For those seeking a trusted real estate agency like Sarabi Realty Group, their reputation for excellence and thorough market knowledge provides a solid foundation for finding the right property. You may also consider getting a rent-to-own home. Be prepared to answer tenant screening questions truthfully. You may click here to learn about rent to own in Alberta. If you need help from an expert, hire a conveyancing solicitor to assist you. So, I hope that each of you will bring your questions to the meeting along with a measure of restraint.  Please remember that it only takes one NIMBYist comment to discredit our entire neighborhood.  If approved, this development, its owners, and its residents will all be our neighbors.  Bridges burned now, may be very difficult to repair down the road.

You may download the developer’s information packet as well as their application for funding at: https://wbna.us/community/art-at-brattons-edge-affordable-housing-development/ 

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have prior to the meeting.  I can be reached at 512-656-0654 or deborah_thompson@earthlink.net.

*NIMBY – Not In My Back Yard

Tuesday, March 4, 2014 – Joint Primary Election

Neighborhood News

voteWe’ll have the following polling places open in Wells Branch from 7am-7pm, on March 4.  However, you may vote at any polling location where you see a “Vote Here” sign.

  • WB Rec. Center • 3000 Shoreline Drive
  • WB Community Center • 2106 Klattenhoff Drive
  • Northwest Elementary School • 14014 Thermal Drive

*Please note:  Wells Branch Community Library IS NOT listed as a polling place in this election.

Please follow the link below for a complete list of early voting, mobile voting and election day voting locations, sample ballots for both parties, and voter registration and Voter ID information.

http://www.traviscountyclerk.org/eclerk/Content.do?code=Elections

Voting Tuesday? Be sure and bring your ID!

Neighborhood News

Questions about Voter ID requirements?  Here are the answers straight from the Travis County Clerk’s website:

Photo Identification Now Required for Voting in Person

Exemptions are Available for Persons with Disabilities and Other Special Circumstances

Texas law now requires voters to show photo identification when voting in person. When voters appear at a polling location to vote, they must present an approved form of photo ID issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) or the United States government. All IDs (except the citizenship certificate) must be current or no more than 60 days expired.

Approved Forms of Photo ID

Except for the citizenship certificate, all IDs must be current or no more than 60 days expired.

  • Texas Driver License issued by Texas DPS
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate (EIC) issued by DPS
  • Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
  • Texas Concealed Handgun License issued by DPS
  • U.S. Military ID Card containing the person’s photograph
  • U.S. Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph
  • U.S. Passport

Free Election Identification Certificates Available

Individuals without an approved form of photo ID may apply for an Election Identification Certificate (EIC) at any Texas Driver License office. There is no charge for this certificate. EICs for persons age 70 and older do not expire; all other EICs expire every six years. To receive this voter ID card, applicants must provide specific documents that prove their identity and citizenship. For more information call DPS at 512-424-2600 or visit their website at www.txdps.state.tx.us

Name on Photo ID Must Match Name on the Voter Registration List

Texas law requires poll workers to review the name on each voter’s photo ID to see if it exactly matches the list of registered voters. If the names are not exact, but are “substantially similar,” that person will be able to vote after initialing the sign-in sheet to affirm that he or she is the same person appearing on the voter registration list.

Provisional Ballots for Those Without Proper ID at Polls

A voter who does not have the required form of ID or does not have a “substantially similar” name match will be permitted to cast a provisional ballot. The voter must present proper identification to the County Voter Registrar within six calendar days of the election or the voter’s ballot will be rejected.

Permanent Exemptions

Voters with a disability and without an approved form of ID may apply with the County Voter Registrar for a permanent exemption. Documentation from the Social Security Administration showing a disability or from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs showing a disability rating of at least 50 percent will be required. A new voter registration certificate that reflects the exemption will be issued.

Temporary Exemptions

Voters who have a religious objection to being photographed or do not have a valid ID due to certain natural disasters as declared by the President or the Texas Governor, may cast a provisional ballot. They must appear at the voter registrar’s office within six calendar days after Election Day and sign an affidavit for their ballots to be counted.

Source:  http://www.traviscountyclerk.org/eclerk/Content.do?code=news.voteridnew

Register NOW for WB MUD Spring Break Programs!

Neighborhood News

Spring Break Art CampArt Mini-Camp • Colors Across Texas 

This is a drawing and painting camp where you will draw scenes, plants and animals then paint them with water colors, acrylics, or pastels. We will spend some time on color compositions, identifying pleasing color combinations, and mixing colors. There will also be opportunities for quickie sketches and more detailed drawings. There are 18 spots available for children ages 7-12 year old. Visit our staff at the Recreation Center or call us at 512-251-9814 for registration.

When:   March 11-13, 11:30-3:30 pm
Where: Recreation Center
Fee:      $40

Babysitter Training Course

This American Red Cross course gives youth ages 11-15 years old the knowledge and confidence to care for infants and school-aged children. The course combines video, activities, hands-on skills training and discussion for a complete learning experience.

When:   March 11, 1-6 pm
Where:  Recreation Center
Fee:      $40

Volleyball Camp

This uniquely designed volleyball camp is open to all levels and is run by our certified volleyball coach. The camp will focus on developing all major playing skills while keeping a focus on building confidence, sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy skill development. We will work hard to play hard! Visit our staff at the Recreation Center or call us at 512-251-9814 for registration.

When:   March 10, 12 & 14, 2-4 pm
Where:  Recreation Center
Fee:      $65

Basketball Camp

Our coaching staff will be on hand to get your skills honed for the spring. The camp will focus on fundamentals and conditioning for youth ages 10-15 years old. Visit our staff at the Recreation Center or call us at 512-251-9814 for registration.

When:   March 10, 12 & 14, 8-12 pm
Where:  Recreation CenterFee:      $65

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification

If you’re 15 or older and looking for a great summer job or a challenging career that is in demand, the Red Cross Lifeguarding program is the place to start. Through videos, group discussion and hands-on practice, you will learn patron rescue and surveillance skills, first aid and CPR/AED.

This course is ideal for lifeguards looking to work at a traditional still water pool. This course teaches professionalism, patron and facility surveillance, victim recognition, equipment-based rescues, and caring for head, neck and back injuries. Upon successful completion of the course you will receive the following American Red Cross Certifications:

  • Lifeguarding/First Aid (good for 2 years)
  • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (good for 2 years)

Prerequisites:

Must be 15 years old and able to pass the following swimming test:

  • Swim 300 yards unassisted (breaststroke or freestyle)
  • Two minute treading water (legs only)
  • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards using a freestyle or breast stroke, surface dive 7 – 10 feet. Retrieve a 10 lb. object, return to the surface, swim 20 yards back to the starting point and exit the water without using a ladder or steps. Within 1 minute and 40 seconds.

Registration

To register, call (512) 251-9814 or stop by the WB Recreation Center, 3000 Shoreline Drive.

When:   March 8 & 9 (12-5pm)

March 10, 12 & 14 (8am-5pm)

Where: Katherine Fleischer Pool & Office

2106 Klattenhoff Drive 78728

Fee:       $200

Save your pipes: Tips to keep water flowing in cold weather

Neighborhood News

Water Faucet - Dripping - BWIt’s going to be cold the next couple of days.  Please take the necessary precautions to protect your pipes and locate your water shut-off valve – just in case. If issues are spotted, call pros such as Graham and Sons in order to get an efficient service.

Before a freeze:

  • Wrap all exposed pipes located outside or in unheated areas of your home.
  • Remove garden hoses from outside faucets.  Insulate the faucet with a Styrofoam cover, rags, disposable diaper or paper.
  • Cover vents around the foundation of your house.
  • Know where your property’s water cut-off valve is located and know how to use it. Additionally, it’s advisable to have the contact information of the best plumber oahu on hand for any plumbing emergencies or maintenance needs.
  • Before the winter season starts, it is advised to check on your water heater and call in a water heater repair technician if it is malfunctioning.
  • If you need help with residential water softeners, visit sites like https://diamondh2o.com/residential-water-treatment/residential-water-softeners/.

In sub-freezing weather:

  • Let water drip slowly from inside faucets during a freeze.
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks where pipes are along outside walls.

If you’re not going to be home:

  • Cut off your water at the property’s cut-off valve and drain all outside water faucets if your house will be unoccupied for several days.
  • Or leave your home heating system on at a low setting.  That may cost a few bucks, but it’s better than returning home from your holiday trip to find your carpet, rugs like those vintage turkish rugs,  and furniture soaked from burst pipes.

Renters should contact the manager or landlord for more information on freeze precautions, or in case of urgent plumbing issues, such as burst pipes, they may need to seek assistance from an emergency plumber. And if you need water line repair, you may consider getting help from a team of expert services. If the problem persists despite all precautions, tenants may need to consider relocating to a new property. Jackpot Offers the best homes that has been built with all the high quality and best materials since they leave no compromise to provide a stress-free experience for the homeowners.

Locate & know how to use your Water Shut-Off Valve

By Margret Wingrove, Crossroads Utility Services

Don’t wait for a water emergency!!  Locate your water cut-off valve now so it can be accessed quickly when needed.

A properly operating cut-off valve allows you to quickly shut off water should you encounter any issues such as seattle leak detection in the house, need to work on your sprinkler system, or wish to turn off the water to your house as a precaution when traveling. For plumbing emergencies, hiring professional southampton plumbers will ensure the repair is done right the first time.

The water shut-off valve is located between the water meter near the street and your house.  It is generally located in the ground adjacent to the meter box and should be protected by a 6” circular cover.  The handle underneath the cover should be exercised to make sure it is operable.  To verify the water valve is operable, turn on a hose bib next to the house.  Turn the house valve off and the water from the hose bib should stop flowing.  Turn the valve on and water should resume flowing from the hose bib.

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the cut off valve.

 

RRISD Citizens Bond Committee makes recommendation to Board of Trustees

Neighborhood News

RRISD Parents – Please see below for a link to the summary of the recommendations presented by the Citizens Bond Committee to the RRISD Board of Trustees on Wednesday, February 12, 2014; no action was taken.  At the bottom of the summary you’ll find a link to a more detailed report should you desire to read more.  

The Board of Trustees could take action on calling for a bond during its Regular Board Meeting scheduled next Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014 at 7 p.m. in the Round Rock High School Lecture Hall. The Board has until Feb. 28, 2014 to decide if voters will be asked to consider a bond package on May 10, 2014.

https://www.roundrockisd.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=32799&pageId=2989045