Austin College | Sherman, Texas | December 5, 2014
The Austin College Department of Art and History hosts an exhibition by artist Nestor Topchy now through January 23, 2015, in Dennis Gallery of the College’s Forster Art Complex. The Forster Art Complex is located on the north side of campus at 1315 E. Richards Street. The gallery is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 903.813.2048. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
A native of Somerville, New Jersey, Nestor earned a bachelor’s degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 1985 and then a master’s degree in fine arts at the University of Houston. He also has studied Buddhism, Taoism and Gnosticism as he developed his belief system.
His work, he said, is influenced by his history as a first-generation Ukrainian-American raised Greek Orthodox. He said his work interweaves paradoxical strands of thought, incongruous painting techniques, disparate artistic traditions, and antithetical pictorial attitudes to express a coherent and pantheistic vision of reality.
His work has been exhibited and performed at the Museo de Nacion in Lima, Peru; the Evergreen Museum at John Hopkins University in Baltimore; Arlington Museum of Art in Arlington, Texas; The Art Museum of South East Texas in Beaumont, Texas; and in Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts, Contemporary Art Museum, Hiram Butler Gallery, and Project Row Houses, among many others.
Topchy said that in his early years, he started studying the art of Pysanky, Ukranian Easter egg decoration based on ancient geometric and non-discursive symbolic designs. Then in the 1980s, he began working collaboratively with artists, architects, entrepreneurs, writers, and scientists, and came up with the idea of “inhabitable art.” He is the founder and creative director of HIVE, located in Houston, which he describes as a “living space and an art form that can encourage social and cultural interaction between people.”
“We propose to create a dynamic village for thriving cultural exchange and enterprise, Topchy said of HIVE. “Inspired by artists, creative professionals, and environmentalists, we will work in partnerships with individuals and organizations to experiment and discover the next generation of responsible building and living practices.”
“This idea is based on a physical structure to build a social structure of collaboration and interaction,” Topchy said. “The principles of geometry inherent to cultures become the basis of their habitats. Civilizations and cultures in the post-modernist era are evolving into virtual social hierarchies while physical interaction seems to be becoming less of a real thing. This unique phenomenon is global, spreading across the Americas and Western cultures.”
“My work in part is an attempt to understand the fundamental aspects of such social structures and initiate improvement by changing physically the environment in which such an interaction could take place,” the artist said. “In one of three concurrent mutually supportive ideas I have conceived, I aim to change and advance social/cultural interaction by creating a habitable hemispherical – helicoidal structure, similar to a truncated Pysanka, and made from ramped, stacked, steel shipping containers, set within a community context.”
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, international study, pre-professional foundations, leadership development, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 36 percent of students representing ethnic minorities. A residential student body of 1,350 students and a faculty of more than 100 allow a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. The College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA) and cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Founded in 1849, the College is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.
Showing posts with label Grayson County. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grayson County. Show all posts
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Saturday, December 6, 2014
New Strategic Plan for Regional Wine and Craft Beverage Industry
Grayson College | December 5, 2014
A new strategic plan to unite local businesses and foster growth within the developing industry of craft beverages was revealed today at Grayson College. Grayson College President Jeremy McMillen, along with Sherman Mayor Cary Wacker, former Denison Mayor Robert Brady and Denison Development Alliance President Tony Kaai announced the details of an initiative that will make the Texoma region renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as the ancillary industries that support viticulture and fermentation.
“Professionals in our region have a wealth of experience in many of these unique industries, and this new coordinated effort will propel our area into the forefront of this emerging field,” said McMillen. Outstanding partnerships involving Grayson College, the cities of the Texoma region, local industries, supporting institutions of higher education, Cognac, France, and an active and vital Cooperative will unite the existing regional wine, beer, and distilled spirits businesses, and pave the way for new businesses to open.
The planning process began last spring when representatives of the College and the cities of Denison and Sherman, engaged the Planning & Development Department of the Texoma Council of Governments (TCOG) to facilitate the process. The group gathered ideas from stakeholders including College officials, local municipality and economic development representatives, and owners of the Texoma region’s vineyards, wineries, and the new brewery and distillery operators. Over several months of discussion, the group produced a bold vision statement for the region.
The vision statement states that “the Texoma region will be world-renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as ancillary industries in viticulture and fermentation.” These unique operations make up the craft beverage industry, and Grayson College will build upon its international reputation to become known as “The Texas Center of Excellence for Viticulture & Fermentation Sciences,” which will include the existing T.V. Munson Research Vineyard and proposed new Winery. Further, the Texoma Appellation will be the most productive in Texas, and the many vineyards and wineries, agricultural producers supporting the industries, breweries and distilleries will play a significant role in making the Texoma region a major destination in Texas tourism.
The Strategic Plan to achieve this vision includes specific action items and success metrics for year one and several goals for years two through five, and then longer-term goals to be achieved within ten years. The first action item, hiring a new director for the viticulture/enology program, has already been completed. Andrew Snyder took the reins of the program this semester. He is a graduate of GC’s Viticulture and Enology program and the wine executive program at the University of California-Davis, and earned a bachelor degree in international business from Schiller International University in Heidelberg, Germany. He also earned three master’s degrees in adult education, communication and human relations, all from the University of Oklahoma. His expertise includes more than 10 years on the cultivation of grapes and winemaking, and eight years of teaching experience.
“Grayson College has a rich history of educating Texas’ grape growers and wine makers. To have a part in the expansion of our mission to include other craft beverages while attracting tourists to the very area that T. V. Munson planted his vineyards is both exciting and rewarding. Mr. Munson grafted grapevines; we hope to graft together these craft beverage industries to promote responsible consumption and enjoyment for our consumers.”
Other ambitious goals include the creation of a craft beverage cooperative, a partnership between Austin College and Grayson College to take the Munson Research Vineyard and proposed Winery to a new level, a marketing program and several tourism initiatives, including an interactive regional craft beverage map created by the TCOG GIS program. Also, a summer conference is planned to be held at the Hilton Inn Conference Center.
More information about the Texoma Craft Beverage project can be found on a newly-unveiled website, www.texomacraftbeverage.com, where visitors can also take a virtual tour of wineries, breweries and distilleries in the Texoma area through an interactive map developed by the GIS & Planning program at TCOG.
A new strategic plan to unite local businesses and foster growth within the developing industry of craft beverages was revealed today at Grayson College. Grayson College President Jeremy McMillen, along with Sherman Mayor Cary Wacker, former Denison Mayor Robert Brady and Denison Development Alliance President Tony Kaai announced the details of an initiative that will make the Texoma region renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as the ancillary industries that support viticulture and fermentation.“Professionals in our region have a wealth of experience in many of these unique industries, and this new coordinated effort will propel our area into the forefront of this emerging field,” said McMillen. Outstanding partnerships involving Grayson College, the cities of the Texoma region, local industries, supporting institutions of higher education, Cognac, France, and an active and vital Cooperative will unite the existing regional wine, beer, and distilled spirits businesses, and pave the way for new businesses to open.
The planning process began last spring when representatives of the College and the cities of Denison and Sherman, engaged the Planning & Development Department of the Texoma Council of Governments (TCOG) to facilitate the process. The group gathered ideas from stakeholders including College officials, local municipality and economic development representatives, and owners of the Texoma region’s vineyards, wineries, and the new brewery and distillery operators. Over several months of discussion, the group produced a bold vision statement for the region.
The vision statement states that “the Texoma region will be world-renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as ancillary industries in viticulture and fermentation.” These unique operations make up the craft beverage industry, and Grayson College will build upon its international reputation to become known as “The Texas Center of Excellence for Viticulture & Fermentation Sciences,” which will include the existing T.V. Munson Research Vineyard and proposed new Winery. Further, the Texoma Appellation will be the most productive in Texas, and the many vineyards and wineries, agricultural producers supporting the industries, breweries and distilleries will play a significant role in making the Texoma region a major destination in Texas tourism.
The Strategic Plan to achieve this vision includes specific action items and success metrics for year one and several goals for years two through five, and then longer-term goals to be achieved within ten years. The first action item, hiring a new director for the viticulture/enology program, has already been completed. Andrew Snyder took the reins of the program this semester. He is a graduate of GC’s Viticulture and Enology program and the wine executive program at the University of California-Davis, and earned a bachelor degree in international business from Schiller International University in Heidelberg, Germany. He also earned three master’s degrees in adult education, communication and human relations, all from the University of Oklahoma. His expertise includes more than 10 years on the cultivation of grapes and winemaking, and eight years of teaching experience.
“Grayson College has a rich history of educating Texas’ grape growers and wine makers. To have a part in the expansion of our mission to include other craft beverages while attracting tourists to the very area that T. V. Munson planted his vineyards is both exciting and rewarding. Mr. Munson grafted grapevines; we hope to graft together these craft beverage industries to promote responsible consumption and enjoyment for our consumers.”
Other ambitious goals include the creation of a craft beverage cooperative, a partnership between Austin College and Grayson College to take the Munson Research Vineyard and proposed Winery to a new level, a marketing program and several tourism initiatives, including an interactive regional craft beverage map created by the TCOG GIS program. Also, a summer conference is planned to be held at the Hilton Inn Conference Center.
More information about the Texoma Craft Beverage project can be found on a newly-unveiled website, www.texomacraftbeverage.com, where visitors can also take a virtual tour of wineries, breweries and distilleries in the Texoma area through an interactive map developed by the GIS & Planning program at TCOG.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Grayson County Tax Rate to remain the same
Grayson County Texas | August 25, 2014
For the twelfth year in a row, property tax rates in Grayson County will stay the same.
Commissioners say property valuations came back higher than usual this year,
which is effectively a 2.31 % increase, but tax payers won't see a change in their rate. Does this mean Grayson County residents won't see an increase in their taxes? Not necessarily.
Local taxing authorities in Texas are required by law to re-evaluate property values in their district every five years and bring the taxable value of the property up to fair market value. Determination of taxable value is calculated by comparing the property to recent sales data in the surrounding area. The law places restrictions on how much the property value can be increased in a single year but it can continue to rise in subsequent years until fair market value is obtained. These notices of re-evaluation were sent out by the Grayson County Appraisal District in May. Tax billing is sent out in October of each year.
Property owners have the right to appeal. You will need to present property information to justify your claim - condition of the property, sales data in your immediate area, sales contract or appraisal. Appeals will be reviewed by a Tax District appraiser or presented to the Appraisal Review Board who will then determine county taxable value.
Several exemptions area available that help reduce taxes. The most widely used is the Homestead Exemption. Senior citizens are also eligible for the Over 65 exemptions. Disabled veterans also have exemptions and in some cases can be exempt from paying all real estate taxes. You can contact the Grayson County Appraisal District for more information on which exemptions you are eligible to receive.
There will be two public hearings on the proposed tax rate, at 10 a.m on September 2nd and 9th, and commissioners will formally adopt the measure in their September 16th meeting.
For the twelfth year in a row, property tax rates in Grayson County will stay the same.
Commissioners say property valuations came back higher than usual this year,
Local taxing authorities in Texas are required by law to re-evaluate property values in their district every five years and bring the taxable value of the property up to fair market value. Determination of taxable value is calculated by comparing the property to recent sales data in the surrounding area. The law places restrictions on how much the property value can be increased in a single year but it can continue to rise in subsequent years until fair market value is obtained. These notices of re-evaluation were sent out by the Grayson County Appraisal District in May. Tax billing is sent out in October of each year.
Property owners have the right to appeal. You will need to present property information to justify your claim - condition of the property, sales data in your immediate area, sales contract or appraisal. Appeals will be reviewed by a Tax District appraiser or presented to the Appraisal Review Board who will then determine county taxable value.
Several exemptions area available that help reduce taxes. The most widely used is the Homestead Exemption. Senior citizens are also eligible for the Over 65 exemptions. Disabled veterans also have exemptions and in some cases can be exempt from paying all real estate taxes. You can contact the Grayson County Appraisal District for more information on which exemptions you are eligible to receive.
There will be two public hearings on the proposed tax rate, at 10 a.m on September 2nd and 9th, and commissioners will formally adopt the measure in their September 16th meeting.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Cyber Security Seminar for Small Business
Grayson College | August 18, 2014
Cyber Security is a growing concern in the world today. As a service
to the community, Servpro®, Iron Lamb Group and the Grayson College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) are sponsoring a free seminar focusing on cyber security. Seminar participants will be informed about risks and how to be better prepared to avoid or manage a security breach. The program is free of charge and lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Detective Jeremy Cox with the Sherman Police Department will be the speaker. Detective Cox has 19 years of law enforcement experience. He has handled the investigation of identity theft and forgery in the past, and currently handles the investigation of online exploitation and other computer related offenses.
The event will be held on August 27 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the T.V. Munson Viticulture and Enology Center. The Munson Center is located on the Grayson College West Extension, near the entrance of the North Texas Regional Airport.
For additional information please contact the Grayson College Small Business Development Center at
903-463-8787
Cyber Security is a growing concern in the world today. As a service
Detective Jeremy Cox with the Sherman Police Department will be the speaker. Detective Cox has 19 years of law enforcement experience. He has handled the investigation of identity theft and forgery in the past, and currently handles the investigation of online exploitation and other computer related offenses.
The event will be held on August 27 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the T.V. Munson Viticulture and Enology Center. The Munson Center is located on the Grayson College West Extension, near the entrance of the North Texas Regional Airport.
For additional information please contact the Grayson College Small Business Development Center at
903-463-8787
Monday, August 11, 2014
Grayson College Small Business Development Center Presents Franchise Ownership
August 11, 2014 | Grayson County Texas
Grayson College Small Business Development Center will present a free
Franchise Seminar, conducted by Texas' Franchise Experts on Thursday, August 21, 2014.
The seminar is for anyone interested in learning more about the world of franchising before they buy. Attendees will be able to ask questions about what entity to created, business structures, franchise and distribution. Current franchise owners will advise prospective new business owners on what to do, how to find financing, and better understand current industry trends and what's hot in the franchise industry.
The experienced lineup of industry insiders includes:
Brian Hunt, Small Business Financing Expert – VP of SBA Lending, BBVA Compass Bank
“How to Find the Money!”
Jon Langbert, Veteran Franchise Developer, Harvard MBA
“What Is Life Like As an Owner Versus an Employee?”
Jason Killough, CFE, Franchise Consultant/Owner, Certified Franchise Executive
“How to Find the Right Franchise!”
Ryan Whitfill, Franchise Attorney, Former Chair, Dallas Bar Association's Franchise Group
“Know all the Legal Considerations!"
The seminar will be held at the Grayson College Viticulture Center, 9356 Grayson, Denison, TX located at the Denison Regional Airport (plenty of free parking) from 10 am - Noon. Snacks and refreshments will be served. Sponsored by Grayson College SBDC, Denison Chamber of Commerce, Denison Main Street, and Denison Development Alliance. The event is free but you must preregister in advance by calling 903-462-8787 or eMail sbdc@grayson.edu or go to: http://www.eauth.com/texas-seminar
This is an informational session only for purposes of educating prospective franchise investors. It is not intended for purposes of selling or soliciting any franchises.
Grayson College Small Business Development Center will present a free
The seminar is for anyone interested in learning more about the world of franchising before they buy. Attendees will be able to ask questions about what entity to created, business structures, franchise and distribution. Current franchise owners will advise prospective new business owners on what to do, how to find financing, and better understand current industry trends and what's hot in the franchise industry.
The experienced lineup of industry insiders includes:
Brian Hunt, Small Business Financing Expert – VP of SBA Lending, BBVA Compass Bank
“How to Find the Money!”
Jon Langbert, Veteran Franchise Developer, Harvard MBA
“What Is Life Like As an Owner Versus an Employee?”
Jason Killough, CFE, Franchise Consultant/Owner, Certified Franchise Executive
“How to Find the Right Franchise!”
Ryan Whitfill, Franchise Attorney, Former Chair, Dallas Bar Association's Franchise Group
“Know all the Legal Considerations!"
The seminar will be held at the Grayson College Viticulture Center, 9356 Grayson, Denison, TX located at the Denison Regional Airport (plenty of free parking) from 10 am - Noon. Snacks and refreshments will be served. Sponsored by Grayson College SBDC, Denison Chamber of Commerce, Denison Main Street, and Denison Development Alliance. The event is free but you must preregister in advance by calling 903-462-8787 or eMail sbdc@grayson.edu or go to: http://www.eauth.com/texas-seminar
This is an informational session only for purposes of educating prospective franchise investors. It is not intended for purposes of selling or soliciting any franchises.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION OFFERS FREE COLD WAR ORAL HISTORY TRAINING WORKSHOP
COLD WAR ORAL HISTORY TRAINING WORKSHOP
GRAYSON COUNTY, Texas––The TexasHistorical Commission (THC),
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Public welcome—seating is limited, please call 512.463.5833 to register The Perrin Air Force Base Historical Museumis located 436 McCullum Avenue, Denison, TX, in the North Texas Regional Airport complex
From Hwy 75 head west on State Highway 691 toward the North Texas Regional Airport-Perrin Field, where Hwy 691 becomes Grayson Drive
The workshop series When the Lone Star State Met the Iron Curtain: Recollections of Texas in the Cold War, is built on he foundation of the THC’s national award-winning Texas in World War II Initiative. This new project will endeavor to preserve the service and sacrifices of Texans during the Cold War. Initial funding for the workshop series was made possible through the generous support of The Summerlee Foundation of Dallas, which also helped support the THC’s Texas in World War II Initiative’s oral history workshop series in 2004.
The Perrin Field Historical Society/Perrin Air Force Base Museum goals are to preserve the legacy of Perrin Air Force Base well into the Millennium so that our future generations will be able to see and remember the important part Perrin Air Force Base played to defend freedom and the security of the United States of America from World War II into the Vietnam war.
The Lake Texoma area has a rich history that dates back to the 1800's. Among the many wonderful things to do around Lake Texoma, plan a visit to the Chickasaw Cultural Center, numerous historical sites and various museums that are found in both Texas and Oklahoma. To learn more about the history of Lake Texoma visit http://www.TexomaConnect.com
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