I received the note below from Tom Peres, a senior at Wakeland High School. Please pass it around Frisco!

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Mr. Maso,

My name is Thomas Peres, and I'm a senior at Wakeland High School.

Recently I sent in a picture to Canon for a picture contest they were having that was sponsored by the NFL, and it actually became a finalist. Out of 10,000 pictures, they picked 28 and mine was one of them. The contest isn't over ye though, there's still a voting portion to decide the winner. If you wanna know a little more about the contest itself the Dallas Morning News actually featured me in their metro section:
http://friscoblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/12/wakeland-student-named-finalis.html

Anyway, what's that mean for Frisco? Well, the picture with the most votes gets to be placed in the NFL National Hall of Fame with all of the other football greats. I think that happens to be a great way to get Frisco on the map. I don't think the youth sports from our town get the recognition they deserve (especially with the boys from Wakeland not making the playoffs), but I'd say that this contest would give our recreational services a nice nationwide exposure, so what's not to like? Also, each vote is entered to win a new Canon Rebel T1i Camera with a lense kit (MSRP: $799.99).

I've already spread the word on this among my peers, their parents, the senior committee at Wakeland, and even Frisco Online, but I'm sure that there's is so much more that can be done to send our boys to the hall of fame. Any help from city council would be highly appreciated as every little bit helps in this democratic process.

http://canonnflusa.com/photocontest/photoContest.html?id=home

You can vote for anything on the first page. My picture is on the second, under the category "Teen Feature". It should be the one to the furthest right, entitled "Commitment Required". It's a picture of a Wakeland player with his head in his hands and a coach standing over him.

Anyway, thanks again for your time. I know we can win this thing if we have enough support. Let me know what you think!

Tom Peres

Traffic Signal at FM 423 & Stonebrook Pkwy Activated

A new traffic signal on FM 423 at Stonebrook Parkway was activated today in the flashing mode (so that traffic on FM 423 does not have to stop).
This signal will become fully operational on Wednesday, December 23.
Motorists are urged to use caution at this intersection as people become accustomed to the new traffic control patterns.

Panther Creek Parkway Closed East of Preston

On Wednesday, December 16, Panther Creek Parkway will be closed just east of Preston Road as part of TxDOT’s widening project. The road will close at 9 AM and is expected to reopen by 4 PM.

During this closure, residents who normally use Panther Creek Parkway to access their neighborhood from Preston Road will need to detour onto Eldorado Parkway and then use Hillcrest Road to reach Panther Creek Parkway. Detour signs will be posted.

Southbound Dallas Pkwy temp. Closure Tonight

‪‪Southbound Dallas Parkway will be closed at the railroad tracks starting at 10:00 pm tonight in order for the railroad to make repairs to the crossing. 

The road will be closed for a few hours and is expected to be open to traffic before 6:00 am Thursday morning.‬‪ ‬‪

During the closure, any southbound traffic on Dallas Parkway that proceeds south of Main Street will need to enter the Dallas North Tollway; use Cotton Gin Road to detour over to Legacy Drive; or use the u-turn lane just north of the railroad tracks to access northbound Dallas Parkway.‬‪

Frosty 5k

Thumpety, Thump, Thump – calling all you jolly souls to join us for the
4th Annual Frosty 5K and Merry Mile this Saturday, December 12.

The Merry Mile Fun Run will begin at 8 a.m. with the 5K run beginning at approximately 8:30 a.m. The race will begin and end at City Hall Plaza, 6101 Frisco Square Boulevard.

Pre-registration is still available through December 9 at Noon.
Pre-registration is $16 per person for the Merry Mile. The Frosty 5K is $20 per person, or sign-up as a team (five or more persons registered at one time) and pay just $16 per person.

Registration will be available the day of the event from 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. The cost is $30 per person for the Frosty 5K and $20 per person for the Merry Mile (cash or check only). All ages are welcome to participate. Youth ages 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those
registering to run the Frosty 5K may also participate in the Merry Mile as a warm up at no additional charge. All participants that pre-register to participate in the Frosty 5K or the Merry Mile will receive a t-shirt.

This year the event has been expanded to include special team discounts and awards will be given out in the categories of Most Creative, Best T-shirt, Largest Team and Best Team Spirit. The 5K race will also include awards for the top three finishers in each of the 14 age groups (11 and
under, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and over), Overall male and female and a Masters 40+ male and female award. The Frosty 5K is a ChampionChip timed race with
timing provided by RunTIME Racing Services.

Individuals and teams may pre-register online at FriscoMerryMainStreet.com
or in person at the Frisco Athletic Center, located at 5828 Nancy Jane Lane, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Early packet pick-up will be available December 10 & 11 from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. at the Frisco Athletic Center. Packets may also be picked-up the day of the event from 7 – 8 a.m.

In the event of inclement weather, proceeds will go to the City of Frisco Charitable Foundation for program scholarships. No refunds will be issued. For up to date race-day weather information, please call 972-292-6520.

For more information and race details, please visit
FriscoMerryMainStreet.com or contact Kari FitzPatrick at
KFitzPatrick@FriscoTexas.gov.

Merry Main Street

19th Annual Merry Main Street Event Happens Tomorrow Night, December 5, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.;
Event Parking Available at Pizza Hut Park

Join the City of Frisco as we kick-off the holiday season Saturday, December 5, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the 19th Annual Merry Main Street located in Simpson Plaza at Frisco Square (intersection
of Frisco Square Boulevard and Coleman Boulevard).

The Frisco tradition features the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony beginning at 6 p.m.

Admission to the event is free, but some activities, as well as food and drinks, require a fee.

Event parking is available in the Pizza Hut Park lots north of Main Street between World Cup Way and Frisco Street. Two shuttle buses will run from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to transport Merry Main Street guests from the remote parking areas to Main Street. One of the buses can accommodate
special needs individuals.

A map of the parking areas and shuttle route is available on line at
FriscoMerryMainStreet.com. Click on 'Merry Main Street' on the left-side menu. A link will be on the page called 'Merry Main Street Parking and Shuttle Map'.

Frisco elementary school choirs will perform favorite Christmas music from three stages all evening, and Santa is taking time from his busy schedule to take photos with the children of Frisco. Make sure you are on his 'nice'
list. Some of the other very merry activities are:

* American Railroad Museum model train display
* Live reindeer
* Frisco Express train rides
* Santa's Workshop
* Holiday treats
* Snowflake light show
* Horse-drawn carriage rides

Children 12 and younger are welcome to shop for a Christmas present for their parents, brothers and sisters at The Kid's Holiday Store in the lobby of City Hall. The store is stocked with a variety of items, and nothing costs more than $5. Entrance to the Kid's Holiday Store is to the back (south) side of City Hall.

"Santa's Helpers" will assist children as they shop. All shoppers will go home with wrapped gifts. Children can reserve a time slot to shop in advance. You can reserve a wristband for a shopping time slot for your child beginning at 4:30 p.m. on December 5. The colored wristband will coordinate with a 20 minute shopping time.

No parents are allowed in the store, but may wait for their child inside the city council chambers. The shopping assistants will walk children back to their parents after presents are gift wrapped. We appreciate the 2009 sponsors who helped us stock the Kid's Holiday Store this year:

* Barnes & Noble
* Heart's Desire
* Blue Door Boutique
* Home Depot
* Brighton
* IKEA
* Build-A-Bear Workshop
* Jewels and Jeans
* Dick's Sporting Goods
* Learning Express
* EDS Credit Union
* Market Street
* FC Dallas
* Ross
* Frisco RoughRiders
* Safari Kids

Frisco D-League naming party tonight

FRISCO, November 23, 2009 - Name a franchise and be an ALL STAR! NBA D-League Frisco has joined forces with Dave & Buster's, Frisco Miracle League, and the Boys and Girls Club of Collin County to host the brand new
franchise's official name launch party on Wednesday, November 25 at the Dave & Buster's Stonebriar Mall. The party will begin at 7 p.m., as the Mavericks take on the Houston Rockets at 7:30 pm.

A variety of NBA D-League Frisco personnel will be there, including Owner Donnie Nelson, Head Coach Nancy Lieberman, President of Basketball Operations Spud Webb, General Manager Del Harris, as well as Frisco Mayor Maher Maso. Officials from the Frisco Miracle League ( www.friscomiracleleague.org/) as well as the Boys and Girls Club of Collin County ( www.bgccc.org/) will also be present.

Frisco Miracle League and the Boys and Girls Club will each have a silent auction to benefit their respective causes. NBA D-League Frisco will have a variety of prizes and raffle items available for those at the party. All attendees will also have the opportunity to submit their favorite team name for the Frisco D-League team, with the winner receiving two front-row
season tickets and a "NBA All-Star Backstage Pass Experience". The event is open to all ages and families are encouraged to come enjoy the atmosphere.

"There's nothing more important to us than our fans, and THEY will be the ones to name to this franchise," Nelson said. "Somewhere out there there's
someone with the Willy Wonka golden ticket and we're going to find them. The next best thing to winning the chocolate factory is courtside seats. plus mom doesn't have to deal with belly aches or pricey dentists!! Dave and Buster's is the perfect family entertainment partner to launch this event. We couldn't be more excited about providing this once in a lifetime experience for our fans. We're proud to be able to share this opportunity with the Frisco Miracle League and the Boys and Girls Club. There's nothing more important than our kids and those organizations are second-to-none in terms of serving our youth."

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, non-perishable food items will also be
accepted for donation to the Metrocrest Food Bank.

NBA D-League Frisco is hosting a second watch party on Saturday, November 28 at Dave and Buster's Stonebriar Mall at 6 p.m. as the Mavericks take on LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

D-League Name Launch Party

FRISCO, November 23, 2009 - Name a franchise and be an ALL STAR! NBA D-League Frisco has joined forces with Dave & Buster's, Frisco Miracle League, and the Boys and Girls Club of Collin County to host the brand new franchise's official name launch party on Wednesday, November 25 at the Dave & Buster's Stonebriar Mall. The party will begin at 7 p.m., as the Mavericks take on the Houston Rockets at 7:30 pm.

A variety of NBA D-League Frisco personnel will be there, including Owner Donnie Nelson, Head Coach Nancy Lieberman, President of Basketball Operations Spud Webb, General Manager Del Harris, as well as Frisco Mayor Maher Maso. Officials from the Frisco Miracle League ( www.friscomiracleleague.org/) as well as the Boys and Girls Club of Collin County ( www.bgccc.org/) will also be present.

Frisco Miracle League and the Boys and Girls Club will each have a silent auction to benefit their respective causes. NBA D-League Frisco will have a variety of prizes and raffle items available for those at the party. All attendees will also have the opportunity to submit their favorite team name for the Frisco D-League team, with the winner receiving two front-row season tickets and a "NBA All-Star Backstage Pass Experience". The event is open to all ages and families are encouraged to come enjoy the atmosphere.

"There's nothing more important to us than our fans, and THEY will be the ones to name to this franchise," Nelson said. "Somewhere out there there's someone with the Willy Wonka golden ticket and we're going to find them. The next best thing to winning the chocolate factory is courtside seats. plus mom doesn't have to deal with belly aches or pricey dentists!! Dave and Buster's is the perfect family entertainment partner to launch this event. We couldn't be more excited about providing this once in a lifetime experience for our fans. We're proud to be able to share this opportunity with the Frisco Miracle League and the Boys and Girls Club. There's nothing more important than our kids and those organizations are second-to-none in terms of serving our youth."

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, non-perishable food items will also be accepted for donation to the Metrocrest Food Bank.

NBA D-League Frisco is hosting a second watch party on Saturday, November 28 at Dave and Buster's Stonebriar Mall at 6 p.m. as the Mavericks take on LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Frisco Holiday Hours

CITY OF FRISCO THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY HOURS

(November 19, 2009) In observance of Thanksgiving, the City of Frisco administrative offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 26 and 27. Regular hours resume Monday, November 30. See the list below for closings or special hours for specific city facilities.

CITY HALL & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
November 26 & 27 - CLOSED
FRISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY
November 25 -- closes at 5 p.m.
November 26 to 29 - CLOSED

MUNICIPAL COURT
November 26 & 27 - CLOSED

FRISCO ATHLETIC CENTER
November 25: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Indoor Aquatic Center: 5 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Fun Club: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Zone: Closed
Group exercise classes from 5 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

November 26 - CLOSED

November 27: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pool: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(play pool, lap lanes and warm water pool only) Fun Club: Closed
Zone: Closed
No group exercise classes

SENIOR CENTER at FRISCO SQUARE
November 26 & 27 - CLOSED
November 28: 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

FRISCO HERITAGE MUSEUM
November 26 & 27 - CLOSED
November 28: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
November 29: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

TRASH COLLECTION - CURBSIDE RECYCLING
NO trash service on Thursday, November 26.
Residents with Thursday collection will be serviced on Friday, November 27.
Residents with Friday collection will be serviced on Saturday, November 28. Place carts out by 7 a.m.

ENVIRONMENTAL COLLECTION CENTER
November 26 & 27 - CLOSED
November 28: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Frisco named Finalist City for NCAA Football Title Game Bid

FRISCO NAMED FINALIST CITY FOR NCAA FOOTBALL TITLE GAME BIDS

FRISCO, Texas - The NCAA notified Frisco officials Monday afternoon that the city is a finalist to possibly play host to the NCAA Division I Football Championship games following the 2010, 2011 and 2012 seasons.

The NCAA did not release the names of other cities that may also be advancing in the effort to serve as host to the title game, previously
known as the Division I-AA Football Championship. Earlier media reports
indicated that Spokane, Wash., Missoula, Mont., Little Rock, Ark., and Chattanooga, Tenn., the current NCAA championship site, also submitted bid proposals in October.

The Frisco bid is a joint effort between the City of Frisco, Hunt Sports Group, LLC, the Frisco Economic Development Corporation, the Frisco Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. The Southland Conference, also based in Frisco, would serve as the host conference for the national championship that would be played at Pizza Hut Park, the city's 23,500-seat multi-purpose stadium.

In addition, the Frisco bid effort was endorsed by numerous entities, including the U.S. Congressional delegation from North Texas, the area's state legislators, and other Dallas-Fort Worth based collegiate sports organizations such as the AT&T Cotton Bowl, the National Football Foundation/College Football Hall of Fame, the Big 12 Conference and Conference USA. DFW International Airport and Dallas-based Southwest Airlines also submitted letters of support for the championship endeavor.

"We're very excited about Frisco being one step closer to being selected to host the NCAA Division I Football Championship," said Mayor Maher Maso.
"We're very honored to be part of such an impressive team, which includes our partners at the Southland Conference, Pizza Hut Park and the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. We're also very honored to have received an endorsement letter from the North Texas delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives. Together, we'll continue to work hand in hand to bring this sporting event to Frisco, benefiting the entire North Texas region."

A contingent of Frisco city leaders and others involved in the bid process will attend this year's championship in Chattanooga on Dec. 18, and it's possible that a Frisco site visit from NCAA officials will occur in the near future. A final presentation will be made by Frisco officials before the NCAA Division I Football Committee in late February, and a final decision is expected shortly after that.

"We are honored to be part of the Frisco effort selected by the NCAA committee to advance in the process, and look forward to making the case for Frisco as the ideal location for the NCAA Championship," Southland Conference commissioner Tom Burnett said. "Whether it's the state-of-the-art Pizza Hut Park, the unmatched national air service into our two major airports, our first-class hotels, or all the tremendous retail and entertainment options in Frisco and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, we believe our destination location can provide a wonderful and memorable championship experience for the competing teams and other visitors."

Frisco Community Parade - Saturday! Not to be missed.

Organizations from throughout Frisco are designing floats and the school bands are getting out their best march music for the annual Frisco Community Parade scheduled for November 14 at 11 a.m. on Main Street originating from Pizza Hut Park. The object of the parade is to express the community's thanks to the men and women who serve in the military.

The Community Parade Committee is chaired by Mayor Maher Maso and made up of volunteers including former Mayor Mike Simpson, VFW Commander Lee Myrben, and FISD School Board Member Buddy Minett among others.

The committee has secured Former Mayor Bob Warren, a Frisco native, as parade
grand marshal; internationally-known gymnast Nastia Liukin, who trains with WOGA Gymnastics; and parade emcee Pam Harris of CBS 11.

"We are very excited about plans for this year's event," Minett said. "We hope many other groups decide to enter this year. The fall parade is a long-standing tradition in Frisco and makes great memories for families."

Myrben says he expects to have veterans ranging from age 91 to the very young men and women who are currently serving riding in vehicles throughout the parade. Attractions of the parade include Fire and Police vehicles, the Frisco Fire Clowns, the homecoming/forthcoming royalty of all five high schools, team mascots, representatives of Frisco's professional sports teams, and floats and marchers from various civic and youth groups.

This year's winning float entries will have Frisco Education Foundation scholarships donated in their names in May of 2010. The Grand Prize is worth a $1,000 Scholarship; First Runner Up is a $750 scholarship; and Honorable Mention is a $500 scholarship. Bragging Rights trophies will be awarded to the Best High School, Middle School, and Elementary float.

School Spirit themes are also encouraged. There is no registration fee for schools. The website is www.Friscoparade.com There are specific float size requirements available on the parade website. No candy throwing is allowed, though walkers may pass it out along route. At least one person must walk along side each side of float.

For more information, go to www.friscoparade.com

Frisco Community Parade Street Closings

Main Street will be closed between World Cup Way and Dogwood Street Saturday morning, November 14, between 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM for the Community Parade.  Visit http://www.friscoparade.com for parade information.

In addition, Frisco Street will be closed between Technology Drive and Main Street during the same time. During the closure, traffic will not be able to travel through downtown Frisco on Main Street and will not be able to cross from one side of Main Street to the other.

Eastbound through traffic on Main Street should take Dallas Parkway north to Eldorado Parkway or south to Stonebrook Parkway to go around downtown.  Westbound through traffic should take Preston Road north to Eldorado Parkway or south to Stonebrook Parkway. 

Only local traffic will be allowed on Main Street between Preston Road and Dogwood Street.  Parade spectators will be limited to parking north or south of Main Street depending on how they approach downtown (see attached map).  No side street traffic will be able to cross Main Street between Frisco Street and Dogwood Street.  

Traffic heading to Frisco Square or the Library should approach the area from the west or from Dallas Parkway.  Use southbound Dallas Parkway to Main Street and then turn right onto World Cup Way; or use northbound Dallas Parkway and turn right onto Page Street (see attached map). 

Traffic heading for the businesses along John W. Elliott Drive or Technology Drive will need to detour so that they approach the area from the north.  Eastbound traffic on Main Street will turn left onto World Cup Way and then turn right onto Technology Drive, which provides access to John W. Elliott Drive.  Westbound traffic will need to take Eldorado Parkway to Frisco Street and then turn left onto Technology Drive.

Road Closure and Registration System Down

Two notices from the City of Frisco e-mail list server:

MIDDAY LANE CLOSURE ON ELDORADO PARKWAY FROM FRISCO STREET TO NORTH COUNTY ROAD SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 10 & 11

(November 9, 2009) On Tuesday, November 10 and Wednesday, November 11, a short section of Eldorado Parkway between Frisco Street and North County Road will be reduced to one lane as part of the road widening project. A section of the westbound lane of Eldorado Parkway on the bridge over the railroad tracks will be closed at various times between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Flaggers will control traffic on either end of the closure and allow traffic to flow in alternate directions through the single open lane.

Motorists should expect delays at this location on Eldorado Parkway during this midday closure and can follow an alternate route around the road work by using Frisco Street, All Stars Avenue, and North County Road.
Motorists are urged to use caution in the area and to watch for flaggers.

============

Online Registration Down Overnite on FricoFun.org

E-Fun online registration for classes and programs through www.FriscoFun.org will not be available after 11 p.m. tonight, November 9.
The software program is being updated. The City of Frisco Parks and Recreation Department hopes to have online registration available again by
12 p.m. Tuesday, November 10 . In the meantime, registration is available at the customer service window inside the Frisco Athletic Center, 5828 Nancy Jane Ln.

Traffic Pattern Change - Eldorado @ Teel and at Legacy

As part of TxDOT's widening project, traffic patterns will be changing at two intersections along Eldorado Parkway today and tomorrow.

Today, southbound traffic on Teel Parkway will be switched back to the proper side of the median. This will eliminate the temporary crossover in front of the Eldorado Montessori School and will restore normal operations to the intersection of Eldorado Parkway and Teel Parkway where northbound and southbound traffic will now flow on opposite sides of the median.

Eldorado Parkway motorists turning south onto Teel Parkway should pay special attention and be sure that they are on the correct side of the median.

Tuesday, November 10, northbound traffic on Legacy Drive will be switched back to the proper side of the median. This will eliminate the temporary crossovers at Veneto Drive and Crane Avenue and will restore normal operations to the intersection of Eldorado Parkway and Legacy Drive where northbound and southbound traffic will flow on opposite sides of the median. Eldorado Parkway motorists turning north onto Legacy Drive should pay special attention and be sure that they are on the correct side of the median.

Motorists are urged to use caution in these areas as people become accustomed to the new traffic patterns.

Saturday Events

Arborfest and Chunk Your Junk Events Happening Saturday Morning, November 7

Join the City of Frisco's Urban Forestry Board for Arborfest 9 a.m.
Saturday morning at Frisco Commons Park, 8000 McKinney Rd. The winners of the annual Champion Tree Competition will be announced.

Got junk? Chunk it tomorrow morning from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Frisco's Environmental Services fall 'Chunk Your Junk' event is located at 6616 Walnut St. Read complete event info at http://FriscoTexas.gov/Recycle

New Frisco Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol

Frisco Cadet Squadron

United States Air Force Auxiliary – Civil Air Patrol
Mailing Address: 2159 Copperfield Ct
Frisco, TX 75034

You are cordially invited to attend an open house held by the United States Civil Air Patrol Frisco Cadet Squadron.

The Civil Air Patrol was founded on December 1^st, 1941, just seven days before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and has continued to provide civilian volunteers an opportunity to assist the armed forces ever since. Today, the Civil Air Patrol conducts nearly 95% of all search-and-rescue missions within the U.S. and Puerto Rico and assistants regularly in national and state disaster relief missions. Some more recent missions include the search for aviator Steve Fossett, disaster relief after hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Ike, recovery of the space shuttle Columbia, and a multitude of general aviation accidents.

The Cadet Program, for youth age 12-21 offers leadership training, Aerospace Education, and Emergency Services training through a multi-faceted program. Cadets who successfully participate in the program reap numerous benefits throughout their careers including university/aviation scholarships and advanced pay grades when entering active military service. Additionally, cadets can participate actively in emergency situations, serving as radio operators, aerial photographers, and ground team members.

We would be delighted to discuss our unique program and the opportunity it will provide to the youth of Frisco with you.

Please join us:

Sunday, November 8

3:00-5:00pm

Frisco Boys and Girls Club,

8750 McKinney Rd, Frisco, TX

If you have any questions regarding this activity or our unit, please feel free to contact me at 972-567-8951 or email SuttonPA@gmail.com.

Phyllis A. Sutton, Maj, CAP

TX389 Squadron Commander

Preston Road Closure

On Wednesday, November 4, a short section of Preston Road between Eldorado Parkway and Mockingbird Lane will be reduced to one lane as part of TxDOT's widening project. 

A section of the southbound lane of Preston Road will be closed at various times between 9 AM and 3:30 PM. 

Flaggers will control traffic on either end of the closure and allow traffic to flow in alternate directions through the single open lane.  

Motorists should expect delays at this location on Preston Road during this midday closure and are reminded that they can use Dallas Parkway as an alternate route.  Motorists are urged to use caution in the area and to watch for flaggers.

Gary Burns Fun Run

Council Member Scott Johnson leading the pack (of Council :-) ). He was really moving..



If you have time to smile and listen to tunes, you are not going 110% (that is said with my coach hat on). We will give Council Member Jeff Cheney a break this time, but it's back to the gym for him.


Council Member Bart Crowder ready to move ahead in the pack - (again, if you have time to wave, your not running fast enough!)


In this picture, Council Member Bob Allen is moving so fast, my camera could only get the back of his head. He was actually trying to catch his wife, Teresa, who put the hurt on him and showed him how to reallly run a 5k!

Overall, the council team took 3d place. I will take the blame for coming in 3d. As the coach, I clearly have been too lax on our council members. Anyone care to join us for some 5AM jogs? Look for me in the city Prius leading a group of , athletes :-)

Sandra Brown coming to Frisco

Meet and Mingle with Sandra Brown New York Times bestselling mystery and romance author

Sandra Brown is coming to Frisco! The Friends of the Frisco Public Library is sponsoring a "Meet and Mingle with Sandra Brown Reception" on Thursday, November 12, 2009. The reception starts at 6:30 p.m. in the City Room on the fifth floor of the Frisco Library.

The Texas author  will discuss her books starting at 7:30 p.m. in the first-floor City Council Chambers, limited seating.  Book sales and signings will follow. Join in the fun, and learn about her latest mystery, Smash Cut, and her upcoming novel, Rainwater.

Tickets for the presentation are $20, or you can attend the reception and presentation for $35. Purchase tickets online at www.friscolibraryevents.com, or at the Borrow and Return desk on the first floor of the Library.

Gary Burns fun run

ROAD CLOSURES SURROUNDING FRISCO SQUARE TOMORROW, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31

(October 30, 2009) Streets surrounding Frisco Square and the George Purefoy Municipal Center,
6101 Frisco Square Blvd., will be closed Saturday morning, October 31, between 7 - 10 a.m. for the Frisco Education Foundation's annual Gary Burns Fun Run.

Main Street will be closed between World Cup Way and John W. Elliot
Drive; Frisco Street will be closed south of Technology Drive; Streets (most) in Frisco Square between Main Street and Burnham Street
will be closed. Through traffic on Main Street will be detoured around the race by using World Cup Way, Technology Drive, and John W. Elliott Drive

The Frisco Public Library opens at 10 a.m., when roads will reopen. Prior to 10 a.m., the parking lot behind the Library will be accessible to library staff, patrons, by taking Page Street from Dallas Parkway.

Patrons of the Senior Center at Frisco Square and Frisco Heritage Center should use Cotton Gin Road or John W. Elliott Drive to access those facilities.

Race participants must park at Pizza Hut Park. During the street
closures, Pizza Hut Park can be accessed on the west side, via World Cup Way.

Feed the Troop

Our very own Brianne Garrett is working hard to support out troops and their families. Please consider supporting this worthwhile cause:
------------------
Thanksgiving Blessing
Feed the Troops

The holiday season is just around the corner and once again we have many service men and women who will be far from home serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. Volunteers from Mimosa Lane Baptist Church and others will be going to DFW Airport to serve a Thanksgiving dinner to our deploying troops on Thursday, November 5th from 11:00 – 2:00pm. Applebee’s Restaurant in Mesquite will be catering. The cost for this event will be approximately $1500.

“Thanksgiving Blessing – Feed the Troops”.

For more information, please contact
Brianne Garrett 469-688-1093
bgarrett@friscochamber.com

I would like to THANK YOU for your help and dedication on this event. You will never really understand what this means to be able to have their Holiday meal with their families before they leave to protect each and every one of us!

USA MILITARY ALL THE WAY!!! 

Sign Ordinance Public Input

CITY OF FRISCO SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT REGARDING SIGN ORDINANCE

(October 28, 2009) The City of Frisco will host two meetings to seek public input regarding the city's sign ordinance. Development Services staff reviews the document every few years to ensure the ordinance meets
public standards and reflects changing community needs.

Meetings will be held November 4 and November 11 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Both meetings will be held in the Vivian McCallum Room, located on the fourth floor of City Hall, inside the George A. Purefoy Municipal Center, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd.

The November 4 meeting will be business focused; the November 11 meeting will be resident focused. The meetings will have a 'come-and-go', casual format. Staff will be present to take comments.

Staff encourages residents and businesses owners to share their input by attending a meeting or
e-mailing comments or recommendations to Greg Carr, Code Enforcement/Animal Control Administrator, at gcarr@friscotexas.gov

Shawnee Trail on Display

EVERYDAY LIFE ON THE SHAWNEE TRAIL NOW ON DISPLAY AT THE FRISCO HERITAGE MUSEUM
Launches First Traveling Exhibit at Heritage Museum that Can't Be Seen Anywhere Else

(Frisco, Texas) October 26, 2009 ~ Artifacts and memorabilia that pay homage to The Shawnee Trail and explores and depicts authentic Texas cattle drives are on display for the first time ever at the Frisco Heritage Museum. The exhibit, installed on the second floor of the Heritage Museum will be on view through January 3, 2010 during regular hours of operation.

The extensive display made possible by former Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau CEO, Doug Harman, consists of clothing, accessories, maps, spurs, guns and saddles. Mr. Harman, a collector of western artifacts for nearly 30 years, says, "The Shawnee Trail was the first major trail to take cattle to the North from Texas. Ironically, it is not nearly as well-known as the Chisholm and Western Trails, which emerged after the Shawnee Trail closed down. The goal of the Frisco Heritage Museum exhibit is to let the public know the important and interesting history of the Shawnee Trail."

Visitors will be inspired by the legacy of the cowboys. Tre Colvin, the Frisco Heritage Museum Coordinator, commented, "These exhibits compliment the many western sculptures and historical information that can be found throughout Frisco and we are delighted to open it up to the public."

The traveling exhibit, on loan and in development, is part of a larger cooperative with cities that run the length of The Shawnee Trail from Waco to Waxahachie, Cedar Hill, Dallas, Plano, Frisco and Pottsboro. Waxahachie and Pottsboro have both expressed an interest in hosting the traveling exhibit in January 2010. Debra Wakeland, President and CEO of the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau, says, "It's important to share the history of The Shawnee Trail. We are very excited about being involved in the traveling exhibit and thrilled about the attention this will bring to our area."

Exide press release

CITY OF FRISCO RECEIVES NOTICE EXIDE AGREES TO WITHDRAW APPLICATION TO EXPAND PLANT PRODUCTION

(October 23, 2009) The City of Frisco received notice today Exide
Technologies will voluntarily withdraw its application for a permit. amendment with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to increase production limits.

In a letter dated October 23, Exide Technologies stated it will work with TCEQ to locate monitors as
recommended by TCEQ.

Frisco sent a letter to the TCEQ dated November 24,2008, protesting the permit application and requesting a contested hearing.

City Manager George Purefoy stated, "The history of the Exide plant in Frisco has been one in which the various owners of the facility, through the years, have been steadfast in their commitment to solve problems
created by the plant and to be a very responsive corporate citizen.

I believe the letter delivered to the city today reestablishes that
commitment to the city of Frisco and its citizens. Not only has the
company withdrawn its application to increase production, but it has also committed to support health studies and to install additional controls so that the plant may come into full compliance with the new regulatory standards. Exide heard the concerns of the Frisco city council and the Frisco citizens and has responded in an attitude of wanting to be a good corporate citizen."

Purefoy further stated, "After studying correspondence sent by Melissa Andersen Kuskie, SIP Project Manager for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which included reported emissions since 2000, it appears that the plant's emissions have been close to meeting the new
standards since that time. While the nonattainment area proposed by the TCEQ is based upon current permitted limits, the city will request that a similar map be produced which shows the nonattainment area based on actual emission data."

Ms. Kuskie states in the correspondence, "the predicted maximum concentrations in ambient air appear to be roughly two to three times
higher than actual monitored values."

"It's an important first step to give our citizens assurances their public health is a top priority," said Mayor Maher Maso. "We're pleased Exide listened to the concerns of our citizens. Transparency in government is
something we strive for daily and we're encouraged by Exide's written commitment to maintain a positive relationship with our city."

Frisco Fall Festival at Safety Town

'TRICK OR TREAT' AT FRISCO FIRE SAFETY TOWN HAPPENS TOMORROW NIGHT, OCTOBER 23; RESIDENTS ASKED TO USE FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE – EVENT SITE PARKING LIMITED

(October 22, 2009) Frisco Fire Safety Town will be the setting of a „spooktacular‟ event tomorrow night, October 23. The third annual Trick-or-Treat happens from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Children, tots through fifth graders, are invited to come in costume and „trick or treat‟ through our miniature town, located next door to Frisco Central Fire Station, 8601 Gary Burns Dr. Admission is free.

Parking at the event site is limited. The large field located to the east of Central Fire Station will not be open for parking this year. A free shuttle service is available at the Frisco Athletic Center parking lot, located at 5828 Nancy Jane Ln., just east of the Preston Road – Wade Boulevard intersection.

Frisco ISD school buses will be shuttling visitors back and forth from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Frisco Fire Chief Mack Borchardt encourages those attending to use the free shuttle service as the easiest and safest way to get to Frisco Fire Safety Town. "Due to recent, heavy rains, the fields around Central Fire are too muddy to allow people to park in them," said Chief Borchardt. "We don‟t want vehicles to get stuck in mud, so we‟re placing barricades around this area to prevent parking there. We encourage everyone to use the shuttle service from the Frisco Athletic Center instead."

This year, while you wait in line, refreshments will be available for purchase at Frisco Fire Safety Town. For more information on the event, please visit www.friscotexas.gov/safetytown.

Texas Municipal League Annual Conference

Today was the start of the annual conference of the Texas Municipal League (TML) being held in Fort Worth this year. As usual, the conference is full of useful information for elected officials, including educational opportunities and seminars on things related to municipal government. Over 1,100 cities in Texas are members of TML.

It was an exciting day today because Frisco was named winner of the Municipal Exellence Awards for large cities. Because of the efforts of our public works, we were recognized today in front of all the cities in attendance.

I was in attendance as well as Council Members Jeff Cheney, Bob Allen, David Prince and Bart Crowder to accept this award on behalf of our citizens. We also had staff members from public works and the planning department.

I look forward to day two of the conference as we continue exploring ways to improve our community.

Preston Road Traffic Switch

As part of TxDOT’s widening project, traffic on Preston Road will be shifted into different lanes between Eldorado Parkway and US 380 on Thursday, October 15. Specifically, southbound traffic will be shifted onto the shoulder and northbound traffic will be shifted onto the former southbound lane. This will allow the existing northbound lane to be removed and for construction to begin on the new northbound lanes. Traffic will remain in this configuration for approximately 8 months.

Motorists are urged to use caution in the area as people become accustomed to the new traffic pattern.

National Night Out Info

I hope I will have the opportunity to meet some of you tonight during the National Night Out event. I also hope the weather cooperates! Please see the note below from our PD to some of the NNO organizers.

Regards,

Maher Maso
=============================
NNO Party Organizers,

Recently we have received numerous phone calls and emails asking if National Night Out will be cancelled or rescheduled in lieu of the impending weather. As you know, many weather forecasts are presently calling for some degree of rain tomorrow during the evening hours.

As of now our plan is to go forward tomorrow with National Night Out and make the rounds (rain or shine). Since we are so late into the year there is no plan to formally schedule a rain date for the 2009 City of Frisco NNO.

However, if it is raining and/or lightening during the timeframe in which your party is scheduled to take place we certainly understand the necessity to cancel your party, move it indoors, and/or reschedule it for a later date.

Please note that if you do decide to cancel your party, move it indoors, etc. - and time allows - please email me so that we may note this change on our party visitation lists and plan accordingly.

We will continue to monitor the weather situation closely, and in the meantime hope for the best.

Thanks again for your efforts in making Frisco a safer place,

Good vs. Good police/fire basketball game

Good vs. Good Basketball Game on October 10

FRISCO, TX - The third annual Good vs. Good Basketball game that matches up Frisco's finest police and fire personnel against one another will be held this Saturday, October 10. For a third straight year, the Frisco Police Department will be looking to beat the Frisco Fire Department in a good-willed game that is part of The City of Frisco's National Night Out festivities.

The basketball game will be held at Frisco High School, 6401 Parkwood Boulevard, with tip-off at 7 p.m. Admission to the game is $3 for adults and $2 for children. All proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics. In addition, an exciting halftime show is scheduled that includes a performance by the Dallas Stars Ice Girls, a free throw contest sponsored by Holiday Inn, and a special appearance from McGruff the Crime Dog®.
There are even prizes that will be given away to those in attendance!

Come join the fun and spend some time with Frisco's public servants as they run the court for a good cause. But don't worry, if you can't make it out to see the game you can always meet your Frisco police officers and firefighters on Tuesday, October 13, at your National Night Out block party. Visit www.FriscoTexas.gov/NNO for more information.

Storytelling Festival - street closure

Some Streets around Frisco City Hall, Public Library Closed to Traffic this Weekend for Lone Star Storytelling Festival

(October 8, 2009)The annual Lone Star Storytelling Festival begins tomorrow, October 9 and continues through Saturday, October 10, which requires some of the streets around the George A. Purefoy Municipal Center to be closed. All day Friday and Saturday, northbound Church Street and eastbound Frisco Square Boulevard in front of City Hall and the Frisco Public Library will be closed to traffic. Traffic will still be able to reach City Hall and the library from all directions (Coleman Boulevard, Frisco Square Boulevard, and Page Street), but traffic will not be able to park or circulate directly in front of the building.

In addition, on-street parking will not be allowed on the south side of Page Street between Church Street and Library Street for most of the day on Friday to accommodate the large number of school buses arriving to pick up students. Parking on the south side of Page will be available again at 2:30 p.m. Since there will be fewer parking spaces available during the festival, library patrons are asked to park in the lot behind the building.

During most of the day Friday, thousands of students will be using the tents set up in Simpson Plaza in front of City Hall. A large number of buses will drop off these students on Frisco Square Boulevard west of the plaza between 8:30 a.m. and noon. On the other side, a large number of buses will pick up these students on Frisco Square Boulevard east of the plaza between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Police officers will help the students cross into and out of Simpson Plaza, but drivers should avoid the plaza area between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and be aware of children crossing the street if they do.

For more information about the Lone Star Storytelling Festival or to buy tickets, go online to http://LoneStarStories.org.

Last Chance - Mother Son Dance

This Friday, October 2, is the final day to purchase tickets for the 2009 Mother Son Dance. Come dance the night away we pay tribute to the red, white and blue in our 'Salute to America.' The dance will be held on Saturday, October 3 at Wakeland High School located at 10700 Legacy Drive.

Tickets are $12 per person (both mother and son need a ticket) and may be purchased online at FriscoFun.org or in person at the Frisco Athletic Center located at 5828 Nancy Jane Lane, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. All tickets purchased online must be picked up at the Frisco Athletic Center by 9 p.m. on Friday, October 2.

Dress to show off your American pride or come in your Sunday best as we let freedom ring around the dance floor. Limited tickets are still available for both dances. Dance times are 5:30 - 7 p.m. for ages four to seven and 7:30 - 9 p.m. for ages eight to twelve. Tickets may be purchased for either time; however you must attend the dance time for which you purchase tickets.

The evening will include music, refreshments and lots of special memories for mothers and the special young men in their lives. Innovative Images will be onsite to commemorate the special night with professional portraits. Portrait packages are $22 (payable at the event, cash or check
only) and include two 5x7 prints and eight wallet-size photos.

In order to purchase tickets online, you must have an account set-up in advance. If you already have an account but have forgotten your Login ID and Password or if you need to create an account, you may log on to FriscoFun.org and click on the eFun online registration link. Accounts created on the weekend may not be processed and activated until the next business day. Please call 972-292-6600 if you have any questions regarding your account.

For more information about this event, visit our website at FriscoFun.org or contact Kari FitzPatrick at KFitzPatrick@FriscoTexas.gov.

The Sci-Tech Exhibition "Grossology" is opening

I am excited about the upcoming opening of the new Sci-Tech Center near Frisco Square. This is a MUST SEE exhibit for your entire family. Sci-Tech is a wonderful addition to our community and I encourage you to support them in any way that you can.

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We are getting “grosser” to the official opening of the new permanent home of Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco. The first exhibit is guaranteed to a crusty, stinky and slimy good time!

ADVANCE TOURS AND INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE – SEE EXAMPLE OF NIGEL NOSE IT ALL INTERVIEW

Daily updates on the construction and exhibit installation process on Facebook (Become our FAN!) and Follow us on Twitter


SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3rd NOON – GRAND OPENING
The grand opening celebration begins with a Rube Goldberg Machine triggering the ribbon cutting and day of family fun with hands-on interactive exhibits all about Grossology…
Nigel Nose-It-All (runny noses), Tour du Nose, Skin Climbing Wall (bumps and blemishes), Burp Man, Y U Stink, TootToot, Gas Attack!, GI Slide (enough said), Vomit Center, Patients Please! Click Ick, Listen to Your Body (gurgles, breathing and burps), Look Inside, Up Your Nose, Urine: the Game
http://www.mindstretchingfun.org/discovery-experiences/exhibitions.html

EXHIBIT INFORMATION:
Grossology will be open Tuesday - Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m; Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m; Closed Mondays. Early and extended hours are available for groups upon request. Ticket prices are $6.50 for ages 3 and up, children 2 and under are Free.

MEMBERSHIP:
Membership to support Sci-Tech Discovery Center is available for families. Membership benefits include free admission, discount on birthday parties, camps and gift shop purchases, invitations to exhibit previews and exclusive members-only events and a Sci-Tech window decal. Family memberships include two adults and all children/grandchildren ages 18 and under in the household.

ABOUT SCI-TECH DISCOVERY CENTER: Sci-Tech Discovery Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, educational organization began as the brainchild of the Junior League of Plano in 1999 to meet the community’s demand for an innovative education discovery center. The Center has a clear mission to provide a dynamic, interactive experience that inspires people of all ages and backgrounds to embrace discovery and innovation through the exploration of math, science and technology. Sci-Tech Discovery Center seeks to spark a life-long interest and help equip area children with these advanced skills to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, educators and innovators. Prior to its permanent home in Frisco, Texas near the Heritage Park, Sci-Tech also provides outreach bringing various discovery programs to community centers, libraries, schools and scout groups across Collin County. The organization hosted two successful preview exhibits in the summers of 2004 and 2005 at the Shops of Willow Bend that gave more than 30,000 visitors a peek at these experimental learning opportunities. Sci-Tech Discovery Center will offer year-round exhibits, education outreach, groups and special events to ignite a passion for science in young people. To learn more about Sci-Tech Discovery Center or to contribute, visit http://www.mindstretchingfun.org/ or call (972) 546-3050.

NTTA Traffic Advisory

NTTA TRAFFIC ADVISORY

Please note the following temporary road closures on the Sam Rayburn Tollway (SRT):

Monday, Sept. 28, through Tuesday, Sept. 29:
All SRT main lanes northbound from Independence Parkway to just north of Custer Road will be closed from 7 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28, to noon on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Entrance ramps from Coit Road and from Independence Parkway also will be closed.

The closures are needed to make final preparations for the road’s next segment opening on Tuesday.

Message boards and traffic control will be provided during this closure.

All closures are subject to weather conditions and will be postponed, if necessary.

New Eastbound Lanes on Eldorado open on Monday.

The new eastbound lanes on Eldorado Parkway between FM 423 and the Dallas North Tollway will open to traffic on Monday, September 28, weather permitting. Eastbound and westbound traffic will begin flowing on opposite sides of the median. After eastbound traffic is shifted to the new eastbound lanes, westbound traffic will remain in one lane for a time as the paving work on that side of the roadway is finished. As part of this work, westbound traffic will be shifted into a different westbound lane at various locations over the course of the week.

At intersections and driveways, motorists should pay special attention when turning onto eastbound Eldorado Parkway to be sure that they are on the correct side of the median. Motorists approaching Eldorado Parkway from the south should pay special attention to the new locations of stop signs on the south edge of the widened roadway. In addition, TxDOT's expansion of Eldorado Parkway did not include a median opening at Rio Grande Drive. Therefore, westbound traffic will no longer be able to turn left into Rio Grande Drive and all northbound traffic on Rio Grande Drive will have to turn right onto Eldorado.

Motorists are urged to use caution in the area as people become accustomed to the new traffic patterns.

Denton County Flu Vaccinations

Don’t Let the Flu Season Get You Down.
9/21/2009 – Flu vaccination is one of the most important ways to help prevent the flu. The Denton County Health Department will provide residents the opportunity to receive their flu vaccinations this year during two community flu clinics. As in previous years, DCHD will hold flu clinics in Denton and in Lewisville. The clinic dates and locations are:
.
• September 25, 2009, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Lewisville Civic and Recreation Center.
• September 30, 2009, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex in Denton.

Flu shots will be available for the general public, but DCHD especially encourages those at high risk of complications from the flu to receive a flu vaccination. Those individuals that are considered high risk include:
• Children 6 months – 18 years of age
• Adults over the age of 50
• Persons of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
• Persons living in nursing homes or other long term care facilities
• Pregnant women
• Persons living with or caring for high risk individuals

The cost of the flu shots is $20 and only cash will be accepted. Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP will also be accepted as payment.

Vaccinations are the most effective preventive measure, but here are some other steps you and your family can take to stay healthy this fall and winter:
• The simplest way to stop the spread of the flu and many other diseases is to wash your hands often, with soap and water. Wash for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Rub sanitizer in your hands until they are dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs can live for a long time, some for 2 hours or more, on surfaces like door knobs, desks, and tables.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs cause illnesses like the flu. The flu usually spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes and the droplets from the cough or sneeze move through the air and get on the mouth and nose of people nearby. Always cough or sneeze into a tissue and throw it away to prevent the spread of the droplets. If you don’t have a tissue, cover your cough or sneeze into the crease of your elbow. If you cough or sneeze into your hand, make sure to wash them immediately.
• If you feel ill, stay home from work and keep sick kids home from school or daycare. Contact your health care provider for specific treatment.

Denton County Health Department is also gearing up to distribute H1N1 Influenza Vaccine. Denton County Health Department expects to receive H1N1 flu vaccine in mid-October and begin distributing the vaccine to the community shortly after. Please check the Denton County Health Department’s Flu Hotline at 940-349-2584 and the Denton County Health Department website at www.dentoncounty.com/health for the most up to date information.

Voter Registration - Collin County

Public Information Office
2300 Bloomdale Rd.
Suite 4192
McKinney, Texas 75071
www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 22, 2009

Contact: Sharon Rowe, Elections Administrator,
972-547-1990
Voter registration deadline for November elections: Oct. 5

(McKINNEY, Texas) – Voting officials want to remind residents that the deadline to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 5, 2009, for the Nov. 3, 2009, Constitutional Amendment, Wylie ISD Bond and the City of Farmersville Local Option Special Elections.

To be eligible to vote in Texas, you must:

· Be a U.S. citizen;
· Be a resident of the county;
· Be 18 years old (you may register at 17 years and 10 months)
· Not a convicted felon (unless a person’s sentence is completed, including probation)
· Not declared mentally incapacitated by a court of law.

You must be registered at least thirty days prior to an Election.

Applications to register to vote can now be downloaded at

http://www.collincountytexas.gov/elections/voter_registration/index.jsp, or by calling the Collin County Elections Office at 972-547-1990 or metro 972-424-1460 Ext 1990 for an application. Voter registration applications are also available at most post offices, libraries and high schools. Faxed Applications are not accepted.


Those who are registered to vote but don’t have a current voter registration certificate (orange card), please contact the Collin County Elections Office at 972-547-1990 or metro 972-424-1460 Ext 1990, or go online at http://www.collincountytexas.gov/elections/voter_registration/index.jsp and download an application and mail it to: 2010 Redbud Blvd. Suite 102, McKinney, TX 75069.

If you were registered to vote, but moved from one county in Texas to Collin County, you will need to register with Collin County before being allowed to vote in Collin County by the above deadline.

You can now change your name or address by accessing the Secretary of State web address, www.sos.state.tx.us; otherwise, updates must be done by mail or in person.

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Tim Wyatt

Collin County Public Information

2300 Bloomdale Rd. Suite 4154

McKinney, Texas 75071

972-548-4673 / Fax: 972-548-4699
http://www.co.collin.tx.us









Tim Wyatt

Collin County Public Information

2300 Bloomdale Rd. Suite 4154

McKinney, Texas 75071

972-548-4673 / Fax: 972-548-4699
http://www.co.collin.tx.us

New Frisco Frisbee League

Tired of the same old sports? Looking for something new and exciting?
Join the Parks & Recreation Department's new Ultimate Frisbee League.
Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact, high energy sport that is quickly gaining popularity around the U.S. The sport combines football, soccer and Frisbee, for a one of a kind cardiovascular workout.

The new league will begin Monday, September 14 at 6 p.m. Games will be held at Harold Bacchus Community Park, located at 13995 Main Street, on field number one. The first three weeks will be open play, giving individuals and teams a chance to get to know the game. Teams are required to have a minimum of five players and no more than eight players and must play with a 2-to-1 male to female ratio. Individuals interested in playing who do not have a team, are encouraged to come out to the open play games. League play will begin October 5. All games will be self-officiated.

Registration for the Ultimate Frisbee League is available online at FriscoFun.org or at the Frisco Athletic Center located at 5828 Nancy Jane Lane. For more information, contact Michelle Zelrick at MZelrick@FriscoTexas.gov.

Day of Remembrance

Please Join the Frisco Garden Club

In a Day of Remembrance

Celebrating Freedom

September 11, 2009
at Freedom Meadow
Warren Sports Complex
7599 Eldorado Parkway

6 p.m.

The guest speaker will be Vaughn Lohec of Frisco, sister of Lauren C.
Grandcolas. Mrs. Grandcolas was a passenger on Flight 93 that crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 2001.

The passengers of that flight gave their lives to foil the attempt to attack another American site - perhaps even the White House.

The Frisco Garden Club will also officially turn over the responsibility for maintaining the native plant garden to the City of Frisco - following the completion of a five-year agreement to support the establishment of the garden. The program will include a flag ceremony and patriotic music.

Guests will be asked to join in the scattering of wildflower seeds in
memory of victims of terrorism and those who fight for freedom

Pete Sampras coming to Dr Pepper Arena in Frisco

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Lisa Wade:(512)289-5887,lisa@prolinkplanet.com

“PISTOL PETE” SAMPRAS AND TODD MARTIN TO HEADLINE THE TENNIS CLASSIC
TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF FALLEN SOLDIERS

Dallas, TX (September 9, 2009) - One of the greatest tennis players of all time, “Pistol Pete” Sampras and American legend Todd Martin will headline the Tennis Classic on Friday, November 6th at 7:00PM at Dr Pepper Arena in Frisco,Texas.

The always entertaining Murphy Jensen will host the event. In addition to the Sampras and Martin men’s singles match, the Tennis Classic will also feature local players in The Lone Star Challenge: Pete Sampras and Team Dallas versus Todd Martin and Team Austin. Each team will consist of girls and boys 18 and under teams, Mixed 8.0 teams and club pro teams competing in tie-break shootouts. A portion of the proceeds from the exhibition will benefit the Children of Fallen Soldiers, a non-profit and non-partisan organization that finances the college education for children of soldiers from Ft. Hood killed in the line of duty.

“We are very excited to have Pete and Todd join the Tennis Classic and this celebration of tennis in Dallas,” says Tim Stallard, President of Prolink Sports and Entertainment. “This will be an amazing night of world-class tennis and family entertainment. I know that Pete and Todd are excited to come to Dallas and provide tennis fans with the best in men’s tennis.”

Pete Sampras captured his final grand slam title with his dramatic US Open victory over longtime rival Andre Agassi in 2002. His resume boasts 14 grand slam titles, including seven Wimbledon titles. He was ranked World No. 1 for six consecutive years from 1993-1998. In July of 2007, he was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I.

Todd Martin was a finalist at the 1999 U.S. Open and the 1994 Australian Open. In 1994, he reached the semifinals at Wimbledon, the US Open and the Grand Slam Cup. Every year from 1994 to 2002 Martin played Davis Cup for the United States. He was inducted into the ITA Men’s Collegiate Tennis Hall of Fame in May of 2007.

Tickets go on sale at noon on Saturday, September 12th. Tickets can be purchased on line through tickets.com or 866-337-1312. Ticket prices are $28.50, $48.50, and $78.50.

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About the Budget and Tax Rate

The new fiscal year for Frisco starts on October 1, 2009, and your city council is finishing up the budget process. We are very close to approving the tax rate. The economy has been difficult for everyone, including the City of Frisco, and this year has been a little different than those in the past. Our challenge is not just handling our budget, but making sure we do not place a burden on our citizens. We remain vigilant to ensure that we provide the level of services our citizens demand.

I have received a few messages along the lines of "less government, cut - cut - cut" and generally pushing some measures that may actually have the opposite effect of keeping the cost of living expenses down. My reply to some of these e-mails may be good for everyone to read as it does not make the case for higher or lower taxes, only the data we are considering. Please take the time to send us your opinion on this important issue.

If you do not like reading long messages, I will give you a warning that this is one of them. However, I will also tell you that the message is saying this: your city council is evaluating whether to keep the tax rate the same (.45 cents per $100) or increase the rate, but not the effective tax rate (.4650 cents). In other words, the tax amount would bring in the same revenue as last year, and the average home would not see an increase. The difference between the two rates is approximately $44 per year for the average priced home ($291,000). The message below may explain it better, and I welcome your opinions(s).

"Your City Council is taking the time to deliberate this issue and evaluate all available data. I know they appreciate hearing your views, and we need your help to stay focused on the right solution for Frisco. These are difficult times, but our decisions should always follow the basic logic of efficient government and great services. We should not allow outside factors or national politics influence our judgment as to what is right for our community. Together, we need to work toward common goals: the long term health of our community, public safety and welfare of our citizens. We do this transparently and allow input from our citizens on the direction they would like to take. Our form of government is closest to the people, and you are encouraged to contact your Mayor, city council members and administration to get your questions answered and opinions considered. Please help me keep that level of cooperation, open government and transparency in our process to always do 'the right thing' by considering all the options.

First, I need your help to stay focused on the right decision for Frisco. These are difficult times , but our decisions should always follow the basic logic of efficient government and great services. We should not allow outside influences or national politics to enter into doing the right thing for our community. We do that together with the same goals in mind: The long term health of our community and the public safety and welfare of our citizens. We do it in a transparent way and allow input from our citizens on the direction they would like to take. Our form of government is closest to the people and you are able to contact your Mayor, Council and City Administration easily and get your questions answered and your opinion considered. Please help me keep that level of cooperation, open government and transparency in our process and to always do “the right thing” by considering all the options.

Please read this note in a way that is meant to give you as much data as I can and not as making a case for keeping the same tax rate or increasing it. I need your participation in this process, but even more so, your informed participation. That is my goal, to give you information to help you understand our process.

Currently, Frisco has a tax rate of .45 cents per $100 valuation. To see how that impacts your home, multiply your home value X .45 and divide by $100 and that is what you are paying your City. Of course, a majority of our home taxes are school district taxes, which is a separate entity and we also have Collin College and Collin County if you live in the Collin County part of Frisco and Denton County if you live in the Denton County portion of Frisco.

The city’s tax rate is divided into two components: Maintenance and Operation (M&O), which helps fund the operation of the city (not including water, sewer, sanitation and convention and visitors bureau) and Debt Service, which is used to pay for the general obligation bonds that are voter approved. The City of Frisco uses .21 cents per $100 valuation for debt service and .24 cents per $100 valuation for M&O. Our M&O, or what it costs to operate the city, is one of the lowest in the entire region. I believe the next closest city to us is Plano at .32 cents per $100 valuation. Some cities run their cities on double or even triple our M&O rate. While each city is different and I don’t like to typically compare cities, it is never a bad idea to take a snapshot of where you are as a community.

City Tax Rate M&O Rate

Frisco .45 .24

Allen .556 .42

McKinney .5855 .406

I am very proud of our efficient city government and our low M&O rate. There are always ways to make improvements and we have made some major reductions in expenses (see below)

I taped a special “Mayors Corner” with George Purefoy, our City Manager, and Nell Lange, Assistant City Manager, to discuss the budget. It can be viewed here: http://sire-cntl-vid01.siretechnologies.com/SIRE/friscocity/Mayors%20Corner/4521/4521.wmv

The effective tax rate notice can be located here: http://www.friscotexas.gov/communication/Documents/rptNoticeOfEffectiveTaxRate--CityofFrisco-2009.pdf

The proposed draft budget can be found here: http://www.friscotexas.gov/communication/Documents/rptNoticeOfEffectiveTaxRate--CityofFrisco-2009.pdf

The Video and Minutes of the last Public Hearing held on the budget and Council and Citizen Comments can be found here: http://sire.friscotexas.gov/sirepub/agdocs.aspx?doctype=agenda&itemid=7356

Currently, the City Council is considering two proposals. One is to keep the current tax rate of .45 cents. This would mean that the average home in Frisco would see a decrease in taxes paid to the City of $45 annually (the average value of a home in Frisco is approximately $291,000). The other option is to raise the rate to bring in the same amount from the average home in Frisco (what we call the effective tax rate). That would take the rate to .4650 per $100 valuation (again, that would be a $44 a year over the .45 rate, but not a tax increase for the average home. In summary, if we approve the same tax rate as last year, the average homeowner would see a decrease in the total taxes they pay the city of Frisco. If we approve the effective tax rate, the average homeowner would pay the same amount of taxes as they did last year. The City Council does not have a proposal to increase taxes over the effective rate (in other words, to increase your taxes over what you paid last year).

Here are some of the questions I have received and some answers/comments:

1) In tough economic times, you should reduce taxes, not increase them. You should cut services and reduce expenses.

· Frisco put in place cost reductions starting in the summer of 2008.

· A hiring freeze has been in place since 2008. There are 34 unfilled positions, 11 of which are in the fire and police departments.

· Staff was requested to cut 10% from their FY09 proposed budget, which was achieved.

· Staff was further requested in 2009 to cut another 4%, which was achieved

· The current budget also reflects these savings (Fiscal Year 2010)

· We deferred capital equipment expenditures for Fiscal Year 2009 and in the current proposed Fiscal Year 2010 budget, including reduced library materials.

· Staff imposed restrictions in travel in Fiscal Year 2009 and also in the current proposed budget (Fiscal Year 2010)

· The proposal is not to increase effective taxes. Please keep in mind that there is no effective tax increase being proposed or even looked at. The question that the Frisco City Council is facing is whether to keep the same tax rate, which will actually lower revenue from existing value or increase the rate, but not the amount, for an average home. In other words, if Frisco adopts the effective rate, which is 1.50 cents higher, the average Frisco home will not see additional taxes being paid. Meanwhile, Frisco is still experiencing growth and new population figures. Since start of summer in 2008, we have added approximately 5,000 citizens to our population (approximately 5%) with no increase in staffing levels. In fact, some areas saw a decrease and all departments have reduced budgets. We are not like many other cities that are not experiencing growth – we are still one of the fastest growing communities in the country.

2) Why is the current revenue not enough?

· We have a reduction in revenue in some funds and an increase in costs in others:

· Revenue is down approximately $6 Million from the new home permits due to the slow down

· We have been successful in reducing water consumption per state mandates, but at a loss of $5 Million in revenue

· The cost of water that the City of Frisco purchases has increased

· An anticipated Health Care cost increase of 10% was actually 29% percent which is approximately $750,000.

· Unfunded Mandates: Unfunded mandates are new laws passed by the state that require funding through you, the local tax payer. For example, the new cell phone law in schools is an unfunded mandate. The City is required to post signs in all school zones. The approximate cost is $18,000. This is paid by the local tax payer. Some unfunded mandates are passed on to the citizens in other methods besides general fund/property taxes. For example, the new irrigation requirements that the State of Texas passed are funded by a fee for sprinkler system installs or expansions. Again, this is a form of unfunded mandate that you pay for.

3) If the City Council chooses to keep the rate at .45 cents, which collects approximately $44 less per year from the average home in Frisco, how will we balance the budget?

a. As already stated, we have a hiring freeze in effect, which we will maintain.

b. We will use some of our reserve funds (approximately $2 Million)

c. We will not sell any additional capital improvement bonds this year (such as roads, facilities, etc.). This will delay future bond sales also.

4) If the City Council chooses to set the tax rate to an effective rate of .4650, what actions will be taken?

a. We will still use some of the reserve funds (depending on council, approximately $750,000)

b. We will hire 17 critical positions (11 Public Safety, 3 Parks and Recreation and 3 Public Works

c. Depending on Council, minor bond funds may be sold for infrastructure.

5) Why not use the reserves to fund all the needed services?

a. In my opinion, that would be unwise. What happens next year if the economy does not improve? I have view the reserve as a catastrophic reserve fund. It was not long ago that we had a major hurricane that put Frisco in its sights. Luckily, it did veer away from us (although we spend many dollars in preparing). Major man-made or natural disasters can impact our community and we have to always be prepared.

6) Lower our tax rate even more!

a. There is an inherent danger of not having enough money to fund critical city operations. Most City Managers and economists would agree that .24 cents per $100 valuation for a city of over 100,000 may be an inadequate amount for city services . Some of the things that could take place if you are not adequately funding city operations include:

b. Lower bond ratings, which make it more expensive to borrow money for infrastructure (which the taxpayer pays for). This would create a situation where we pay more in fees and interest to build the same infrastructure. Our Citizen’s dollars would not go as far.

c. Lower quality of life, thus less attractive of a city for new corporate relocations and a downward pressure on home and business values (a downward spiral would be created)

d. Higher indirect fees. For example, the exact same home in Frisco has a home insurance rate approximately $150-200 less than in Allen, McKinney or Plano annually. Thus, potentially, for a savings of $44 per year on the average home (value of $191,000), you may lose the cost savings you see in insurance rates due to a fully funded, trained and well equipped fire and police department.

e. We saw what could happen with road funding in our area. Our representatives, while vocally saying they would never raise taxes by increasing the gas tax 10 cents, allowed SH 121 to be tolled when it did not need to be. Now, for the average car, driving on 121 to work 5 days a week, instead of a $60 annual increase, the user pays approximately $1500-1800 annually in tolls. Unfortunately, not enough citizens joined us as our city attempted to stop this un-necessary and unfair taxation of our citizens

I know this was a long message, but I tried to give you some of the many moving parts to the information needed to understand this issue. I hope this, along with the actual draft of the budget, the questions you are asking and your own sources of what it is like living in Frisco, gives you the information to help us as we determine what our rate should be. Please do not bring national politics to Frisco. Let’s make the right decision, whatever that is, with a cool and level-headed look at where we want our city to be and what makes sense for our community. Frisco is a success story. I receive national and international visitors on a regular basis who come to see our financial model. Let’s continue our well planned growth while keeping government small and non-intrusive.