Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!

Bobcat Spotted in the Shores

Provided By Planet Rockwall

The Shores -- Sunday, at 4:45 PM, a Bobcat was seen running across the street on North Lakeshore Drive, near the school, headed towards the wooded area. The Shores Homeowners Association again reminds residents to use CAUTION.

All small animals are game; small dogs and cats. "A cat left out over night is just a 'snack'...Remember Bobcats can climb trees, as well."

It is somewhat unusual the Bobcat is being seen frequently in the daytime. The sightings suggest he lives close by. As long as he has a food source here, he will stay. The best way to get him to move on is to NOT allow food for him. Keep cats inside at night and never leave pet food outside. Do not leave small dogs unattended.

There are over 130 homes in the immediate area - tell your neighbors.

Shores HOA
Rockwall, Texas

Fire Smart Christmas Tree Tips

Provided By Planet Rockwall

As you decorate your home this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. The following are a few "Fire Smart" tips:

Picking the tree: Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Placing the tree: Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1–2” from the base of the trunk.
Location: Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights. Also, make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
Be sure to add water daily to your tree stand. The first few days are the most important, as your tree will drink a lot of water. 
Lighting the tree Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

FACTS:

• One-third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
• Each year, fire departments respond to roughly 260 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. 
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every five of the fires.

Information and Facts by National Fire Protection Agency
NFPA Public Education Division / www.nfpa.org/education

Disney® Star Mitchel Musso Home For the Holidays ~ Rockwall Concert

Provided By Vocus/PRWEB and Rusty Wallis Volkswagen

Dallas, TX -- December 02, 2010 -- Rusty Wallis Volkswagen Brings Disney® Star Mitchel Musso Home For the Holidays. Mitchel Musso, one of the most popular actors and musicians of the new generation, will return to his hometown of Rockwall, Texas, for a concert Saturday December 4, 2010.

Musso’s newest album, ‘Brainstorm’, was released Nov. 22. The album is his latest project since embarking on a film and music career at age 11. Mitchel Musso can currently be seen starring in Disney Channel’s “Pair of Kings” series. He can also be heard in the Disney Channel’s hit animated series “Phineas & Ferb”, which was also nominated for an Emmy.

Mitchel previously starred in the Oscar-nominated feature film, “Monster House”, executive produced by Steven Spielberg. He also appeared with Miley Cyrus in Disney Channel’s Emmy-nominated series “Hannah Montana” as Oliver Oken.

“We are thrilled to be the primary sponsor for the Mitchel Musso concert,” said Russ Eason, general manager of Rusty Wallis Volkswagen. “We know he has so many fans in this area, and we are happy to give them an early Christmas present.”

Prior to his film and television career, Musso danced for Dance Force Studio in Rockwall, and the proceeds from the concert will benefit the studio. The Dance Force Studio teams are raising funds to compete at Disney World in March.

The Hometown Concert, sponsored by Rusty Wallis Volkswagen, will take place at 7 pm. at Rockwall-Heath High School Performing Arts Center, located at 801 Laurence Drive. More concert & ticket information. Also, visit the Mitchel Musso Hometown Concert Facebook page.

Home for the Holidays Gala

Provided By Rockwall Home for the Holidays

Rockwall County Helping Hands invites you to attend Home for the Holidays Gala

Saturday, November 6, 2010
6 o’clock until Midnight
Hilton Bella Harbor Hotel on Lake Ray Hubbard
Cocktail Reception and Christmas Tree Auction is at 6:00pm
Seated Dinner begins at 7:00pm
Dancing to Random Axis
Attire is Cocktail appropriate

For more information, click here.

RCP Camp Broadway "The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!"

Provided By Rockwall Community Playhouse


RCP's Children's Mini Production features the beloved "The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" to be performed on October 29, 30, and 31st.  Auditions were held the first day of class.  Get involved in Children's Theatre at RCP!  Tickets are $5 each. Performances are at 7:00 pm except Sunday performance will be 2:00 pm.  For more information, call 972-722-3399.  Click here for TICKETS!

Early Voting This Week - Oct 25 - 29

Provided By Planet Rockwall


When: Monday, October 25
Time: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm 
Where: Rockwall - Heath - Royse City - Rowlett 

Details: 
Link to Poll Locations / Hours Vary

Rockwall County Election Information
County Elections Administrator contact information
Precincts
Sample ballots
Links to local Democratic / Republican party web sites

ROCKWALL COUNTY
(condado de rockwall)

EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS & HOURS (pdf)
(lugares y horas de votacion anticipada para la eleccion)

FOR
(para)
NOVEMBER 2, 2010 ELECTION
(eleccion de 2 de noviembre 2010)

Rockin’ on the Docks - The Harbor in Rockwall

Provided By Planet Rockwall

When: Saturday, October 23

Time: 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Where: The Harbor in Rockwall
2074 Summer Lee Drive
Rockwall, Texas 75087

Details: Music ~ Art ~ Food ~ Kids' Zone

Get ready for the 3rd Annual

Rockin' on the Docks...

A full day of entertainment at The Harbor in Rockwall, Texas! Enjoy arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and live music beginning at 11:30 AM.

At night, the main stage will highlight a performance by the nationally well-known band, Little Texas.
11:30 a.m.—1:00 p.m. The Chris Rivers Band The official band of Gilley's in Dallas
1:30—3:00 p.m. Mistral
3:30—5:00 p.m. Stars Go Dim ~ A trendy pop-rock sound with a side of soul-filled vocals
5:30—7:00 p.m. Sleeperstar ~ Alternative / Rock / Pop
7:30—10:30 p.m. Little Texas ~ Nationally recognized country rock

Pre-sale tickets available at all metro Kroger stores.
Tickets are $4 each in advance ~ $5 at the gate until 5:30 p.m.
After 5 p.m. ticket price is $10.

Pet Paparazzi!

Provided By City of Rockwall

Public event on Saturday November 6th 10am – 12pm

Celebrate the Rockwall Animal Services and Adoption Center and its dedicated employees and

volunteers beginning Nov. 1 during the 3rd Annual National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. On Nov. 6,
the public is invited to an exciting celebration at the Animal Adoption center, 1825 Airport Road.

And what a celebration it will be.

Contests:

 Be a member of the Pet Paparazzi by submitting the best photo of an animal – wild or domestic – you have taken for the Pet Paparazzi Photo Contest. Entries must be received by Oct.29th at 6 p.m. at the Animal Services and Adoption Center.

 Enter your pet in the #1 Fashionista Costume Contest. The best outfitted pet (and you if you choose to dress alike) will be selected by a panel of “distinguished judges!”

 Kids, call on your artistic talents to celebrate Animal Shelter Appreciation Week with an original poster for the You and Your Happy Pet Contest and earn the title of Best Pet Artiste in Rockwall. Entries must be received by Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. at the Animal Services and Adoption Center, where they will be displayed during appreciation week.

There will be prizes!

That’s not all!

 Numerous games and activities for kids

 Free hot dogs, snow cone and popcorn

 Clowns

 Bounce house

The Rockwall Animal Services and Adoption Center is a safe haven for the lost, abandoned and abused animals in the community. The staff does an outstanding job in providing proper care and attention to the homeless animals, including reuniting them with their owners – and they are helped by a wonderful group of community volunteers. Our adoption program is growing by leaps and bounds.

We invite you to come by the center the week of Nov. 1, and be sure to join us on Saturday, Nov. 6
from 10 a.m. until noon to experience the celebration fun and our wonderful world of animals – you might
even want to take a pet home!

Public/private partnerships are needed to enhance this great City of Rockwall event. Please call
Animal Services at (972)771-7750 to learn more about this wonderful community program.



Pumpkin Patch Begins!

Provided By Planet Rockwall

When: Saturday, October 02

Time: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Where: Ridge Road Shopping Center
1117 Ridge Road
Rockwall, TX 75087
Details: Oct 2 - 30, 2010

The 22nd Annual Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Patch is an all-volunteer fundraiser located in the City of Rockwall, a quaint lakeside community nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard. The Friends of the Rockwall County Library and Our Lady of the Lake Council of Catholic Women have partnered the Pumpkin Patch for the past 22 years.

Every fall, truckloads of pumpkins, decorative squash, corn stalks, hay bales, and other seasonal items are displayed for sale at the Pumpkin Patch, located near the historic downtown square.

Children and families make it a yearly tradition to return to the Patch for their Fall photo opportunities and to find the perfect pumpkin.

This year's event runs from Saturday October 2 through October 30.

Hours of operation are 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily, seven days a week.

Pumpkins, games, activities for kids, fall harvest items and family fun!

Visit the Pumpkin Patch Website!

Rockwall County in Top Ten for Healthiest Counties in Texas

Provided By Planet Rockwall

As if there weren't enough reasons to love living in Rockwall, a new study just released ranks Rockwall County as one of the top ten healthiest counties in the state. Not a trivial accomplishment given that there are over 250 counties in Texas.

In a study which considered statistics gathered over a ten year period, researchers from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute ranked Texas counties on health outcomes, which represent how healthy a county is, and health factors, which influence the health of the county. In each category Rockwall County came in 6th and 4th respectively among the 221 counties ranked in the study.

The health outcomes rankings look at mortality rates, percentage of low birthweight births, and self-reported fair or poor health. Rockwall's ranking of 6th overall indicates that we enjoy a far higher than average life span along with a greater percentage of those years spent in good, rather than poor, health.

Health factors ranking looks at the items that contribute to the good or poor health rankings of a particular population segment. These include health behaviors, availability of clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment. Health behaviors include measures of smoking, diet and exercise, alcohol use, etc. Social and economic factors consider education, employment, income and community safety. Physical environment looks at environmental quality and infrastructure. Rockwall's ranking in these factors was 4th overall.

Studies like this one can be used in any number of ways. A county ranked near the bottom could use the factors listed to develop programs to improve health in the community. A county such as Rockwall, which is rated highly, can use the information to see what they are doing right, and to encourage programs to keep our health consciousness at a high level.

RPA ‘s Top 15 Favorite Places to Bring the Kids

Provided By Planet Rockwall

Rockwall Preschool Association's Favorite Local Outings.

Chosen by members and their children.

1. Harry Myers Park – 30 acres of park with pool, community building, playgrounds, walking trails, baseball fields and spray zone.

2. Rockwall County Library – Story time and crafts located in the spacious children’s area.

3. Open Gyms– ASI and United Elite

4. A Day at the Zoo – Dallas Zoo, Fort Worth Zoo, and Caldwell Zoo located in Tyler, Texas.

5. RPA Children’s Christmas & Spring Parties – Twice a year Rockwall Preschool Association members and their children get together for children’s parties that include food, crafts, and entertainment specially designed with preschoolers in mind.

6. Michaels, Home Depot, and Lowe’s craft activities – Check local stores for activities.

7. Ham Orchards – Located in Terrell, Ham's is THE place to purchase fresh peaches in North Texas. Don’t miss the blackberry patch and ice cream too! (www. hamorchard.com)

8. Museums at Fair Park – Located in Dallas, The Museum of Nature & Science is the result of a 2006 merging of three Fair Park museums. (http://www.natureandscience.org/)

9. Summer Movies in Rockwall & Garland - At Rockwall Cinemark and AMC at Firewheel in Garland.

10. The Harbor in Rockwall – Watching boats, playing in the fountains, visiting the lighthouse, concerts by the lake, and enjoying ice cream at Twisty Treats.

11. Trains at Northpark – Children and adults alike marvel at The Trains at NorthPark Mall located in Dallas during the holidays. (http://www.rmhdallas.org/)

12. The Children’s Play Place at the Galleria – Located on the third floor of the Galleria Mall in Dallas is a jungle-themed play area for tots and toddlers.

13. Bass Pro Shop in Garland – Looking at the fish tanks, watching the fish being feed, visiting Santa Claus and holiday crafts at Christmas time.

14. Rockwall Pumpkin Patch – A Rockwall tradition! Pick out your pumpkin, enjoy the hay maze, and take your picture with the scarecrow.

15. Downtown Rockwall Events – Farmers Market, Aspasians Art Fair, and Scare on the Square.

Family Fun Fridays!

Provided By City of Rockwall

Friday, September 24, 2010, 7 – 10pm

Northshore Park, 609 Highland Drive in front of Reinhardt Elementary

Bring your blanket or lawn chair and an FM radio to tune in to the movie. The fun starts at 7:00 PM with games, bounce house and lots more! Movie: "Snow Buddies"

Instant Guitar

When: Thursday, September 23
Time: 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Where: Utley Middle School
Details: Crash course will teach basic chords & get you playing!

Can't find the time to learn guitar? In just a few hours you can learn basic guitar chords and start playing along with your favorite songs. Playing the guitar can give you years of enjoyment.

Bring your acoustic guitar ~ Class is limited to 15 students.
Note: Materials fee of $29 will be collected in class for book and DVD.

Class: Thursday, Sep 23 or Nov 4
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm.
Room 118 / Utley Middle School
Fee: $25
Instructor: Kerry Brown

Rockwall Independent School District
Community Education Dept.
105 Williams Street
Rockwall, TX 75087
Phone: 972-771-0605

LET'S GO TO THE HOP!

Provided By A Love for Dance

The Candy Jar Malt Shop and A Love for Dance Studio are joining together tbring you a genuine 1950's

SOCK HOP AT THE MALT SHOP!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

6:30 to 9:00 PM

Come to downtown Rockwall for all of your Malt Shop favorites and lots of 1950's Rock 'n Roll. Free swing dance lessons will be given every half hour!

The Malt Shop is located at 109 S. Goliad in Rockwall, Texas. Parking is available on the square or at the Rockwall Center (just south of the Malt Shop).

POODLE SKIRTS ARE OPTIONAL!

Rockwall teacher going to Australia with Oprah

Provided By WFAA



The end of an era started Monday: The first episode of Oprah Winfrey's 25th and final season on WFAA.

In case you missed it, her silver anniversary is already off to a big surprise. "We're going to Australia!" the host told her elated studio audience.

One of Oprah's biggest fans, Rockwall High School teacher Tosha Ridgeway, was in that audience and is going on the trip Down Under in December. She watched the show with some of her friends at the high school Monday afternoon, and talked to News 8 about her plans.

"The Oprah Winfrey Show" is broadcast weekday afternoons at 4 o'clock on Channel 8.

Rockwall Police Vehicle Collision

Provided By Planet Rockwall 
Source the City of Rockwall

A Rockwall police officer and bystanders at the scene of an accident were almost killed by an 18-wheeler as it skidded onto the scene. Inside the stranded vehicle was a woman who had already been involved in one accident. As seen toward the end of the video, the 18-wheeler crashes into the three vehicles, completely destroying the Rockwall patrol car in the process. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in this incident.

Tornadoes, Rain and Wind Hit Rockwall County

Provided By Planet Rockwall

Tropical storm Hermine brought Rockwall and the surrounding area their share of excitement Wednesday afternoon, as tornadoes touched down in Heath and Forney. The Heath storm damaged several houses in the Meadow Creek neighborhood.

In Rockwall a funnel cloud was seen as it floated over The Shores neighborhood. From an alley on Crestway Drive, Shores resident Donny Lauderback used his cell phone to capture footage of the funnel cloud. Lauderback said, "It was down for about 2 minutes, and was south of us, towards the clubhouse."

Funnel Cloud Over The Shores:



The National Weather Service placed rain totals for the county from 2.5 inches in southeast Rockwall County to over 4 inches in the northwest part of the county. Water levels in Lakes Lavon and Ray Hubbard are slowly beginning to rise as tributary flows spiked near flood stages overnight. Lake Lavon is currently at around 5 feet below normal, and Ray Hubbard is at 3 feet below, having risen about 1.5 feet since Wednesday.

What is it like to live in Rockwall?

GOT RIBS?

Provided By Planet Rockwall

When: Saturday, September 11
Time: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
Where: Downtown Rockwall - Historic Square
101 E. Rusk Street Rockwall, TX 75087
Details: 2nd Annual Barbecue Cook-off, Poker Stroll and more!

Each September teams fire up their grills for a smokin’ hot barbecue competition in downtown Rockwall! Residents and visitors flock to the historic town square for a fun filled day featuring good music and good food! After you participate in the morning 5k Fun Run hosted by Rockwall Running Center, take it easy and stroll through the Shoppes of Old Town collecting the winning hand in the “Poker Stroll”!

The Rib Rub is a sanctioned barbecue competition open to all barbecue enthusiasts! Be a part of this day long celebration; over 90% of the entry fees paid out as prize money. The International Barbecue Cookers Association sanctions the event with over 25 teams expected to enter this year’s competition. Teams may enter to cook all or some of the following: baby backs, pork spare ribs & chicken. In addition to prize money, trophies will also be awarded to top performers and best showmanship!

Barbecue Entry Form - Rules, Regulations & Guidelines.

Other events planned for the event include:
5k Run sponsored by Rockwall Running Center (located in Historic Downtown Rockwall)
A Poker Stroll sponsored by the Old Town Shoppes of Downtown Rockwall
Live Music
Food & Beverage Garden
Children’s Activities!

Sponsorship Information

Contact Info:
Bethany Golden
Main Street Manager
Phone: (972) 772-6400
Fax:(972) 771-7748
Email: bgolden@rockwall.com
Historic Downtown Rockwall, TX

Get Fit Rockwall!

Provided By Eclipse Fitness
Come join us in setting the Guinness Book of World Records for the most people working out in a single community, simultaneously.

Eclipse Fitness at The Harbor

Rockwall, Texas

Saturday, October 2, 2010

8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Get Fit Rockwall is an event for adults, children and seniors. This will be a self-paced fitness workout designed for everyone. We hope to inspire participants to do more in their daily lives by incorporating a healthier lifestyle. Invite your friends and family in a celebration of life and wellness. Come join us for a morning filled with health fairs, food and fun!

We hope to see you there!

D. A. Makes an Offer You Can’t Refuse

Provided By Planet Rockwall

The office of Rockwall County District Attorney Kenda Culpepper has announced that there will be a press conference to announce the second annual Labor Day "No Refusal Weekend". Scheduled for Tuesday, August 24, 2010, at 10:30 a.m., it will be held on the steps of the Rockwall County Historical Courthouse located at 101 E. Rusk on the Rockwall square.

In a Statement issued by her office, Culpepper said, "This program has received wide support, assistance, and cooperation from a number of fronts including law enforcement, judges, city and county officials, and local hospitals who have agreed to provide trained phlebotomists to draw the blood evidence. I have invited all of the local police chiefs, the Rockwall County Sheriff, the Rockwall County Constables, and other law enforcement supervisors to participate in the press conference. I also expect that county commissioners, judges, hospital personnel, and other local officials will attend. All officials should additionally be available for comment after the event."

The program will run from midnight September 6 through 5 P.M. September 10. During that time, any driver pulled over and suspected of driving while intoxicated will be given a choice take either a breath or blood test. If the driver refuses, the officer can get a warrant to draw blood without their consent. The County will have three judges on call to issue the warrants, and certified medical personnel on hand to do the blood draw.

Culpepper said that last year's No Refusal Weekend was so successful that it produced only three arrests for drunk driving, a testament to the program's deterrent effect. Operators of motor vehicles and boats "got the message."

Tax Free Weekend 2010

Tax free weekend has arrived! Starting today through Sunday begins Texas' annual tax free weekend! This is the time of year when most parents load up on school supplies and clothes. To learn more about this great event click here!

Happy Shopping!!

Rockwall ISD After-School Program

After the first of the year, many parents completed a survey expressing interest in Rockwall ISD starting an After-School Program. Using information received, the program will be implemented at six elementary campuses for 2010-2011 (Amy Parks-Heath, Celia Hays, Doris Cullins-Lake Pointe, Dorothy Smith Pullen, Grace Hartman and Sharon Shannon).

For more information in regards to the RISD after-school called ROCK click here!

Prezley's

Looking for good food, great spirits and live music? Then you need to head on over to one of Rockwall's newest restaurants...Prezley's!

They are open for lunch, have free wi-fi, have live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, and have HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY from 3-7 p.m!

They are located behind Culver's and next to Chiloso.
2455 Ridge Road
972-722-1622

Join them Saturday, August 21st where Neil Davies will be performing the songs from the great Frank Sinatra! See ya there!

Mayors Unite to Benefit Arts in Rockwall

Provided By Planet Rockwall

Former Rockwall mayor Alma Williams Howard and current mayor of Rockwall Bill Cecil are combining their forces for the good of the community. Ms. Howard and Mr. Cecil will be joining Chief Justice Carolyn Wright and Craig Zurek to serve on the judging panel for the “Dancing with the Stars” competition which will be held during the annual Rockwall County Alliance for the Arts gala on September 11, 2010 at the Hilton Bella Harbor. Local celebrity dance contestants include: Lowell and Betty Moon, Rob Vaughn, Jack Ogilvie, Rob and Sara Whittle, and Dave and Carole Cutcomb. Although the judges will be giving critiques on each couple’s routine, the coveted trophy will be bestowed upon the duo that receives the highest monetary donation from the audience. The money raised will go toward funding arts-related scholarships for Rockwall County students.

Alma Williams Howard is currently president of the Economic Development Corporation, as well as president of the Municipal Benefits Corporation in Heath. In addition, she is on the Board of Governors for Presbyterian Hospital of Rockwall. She has been a member of the Rockwall City Council and president of the Parks and Recreation Board. Her other accomplishments include being a founding member of the Rockwall Independent School District Education Foundation, Rockwall Women’s League, Rockwall Historical Foundation, AMICA, Rockwall Art League, and Friends of the Library, holding offices in many of these organizations. Alma has been a resident of Rockwall County since 1972, and she and her husband Robert are residents of Heath. They have 2 children and 2 grandchildren.

Bill Cecil was elected Mayor in May 2005 after serving over 5 years on the Rockwall City Council. Bill currently serves on a number of city subcommittees, including Finance and Customer Centered Culture. In addition, he dedicates a great deal of time to supporting the arts and historic preservation in his community. He retired from the Air Force Reserves in December 2002 as a Lieutenant Colonel after 39 years of regular and reserve service. He retired in June 2005 from the Department of Defense as Director of the Defense Contract Management Office at Bell Helicopter after more than 32 years with the Defense Contract Management Agency. He is a graduate of Langston University where he majored in Business and Administrative Management. Bill and his wife Becky celebrated their forty-fifth wedding anniversary in June. They are the proud parents of Renee, Jack, and daughter-in-law Angela, and have two grand children, Garrett and Rylie.

The Rockwall County Alliance for the Arts is a non-profit organization whose goal is to promote the arts in Rockwall. This year’s gala, America the Beautiful, seeks both to raise money for scholarships and to honor our country’s military heroes. To purchase tickets for the gala or to become a sponsor, please call Kathleen Morrow at (972)772-1111.

Rockwall MusicFest

Join us for a Symphony Under the Stars!

When: Saturday, August 14
Time: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Where: The Harbor in Rockwall


Dr. Stephen Holcomb is the conductor of the Greater Philharmonic Orchestra, who will be performing at the Rockwall MusicFest.

The orchestra will perform the music of Star Wars, Schindler's List, Jurassic Park, Superman and more!

Pack your lawn chairs, food, blankets and family for this fun event! We are looking forward to the evening ending with a great Fireworks show!

Race Week in Rockwall

Provided By (PRBob)

If you've ever crossed the Interstate 30 causeway over Lake Ray Hubbard on a warm Wednesday afternoon, or taken more than a cursory glance at the Rockwall City logo, then you're no doubt aware that we do a fair amount of sailing here. On any given weekend, just about any time of the year, one can see sailing craft of all sizes from dinghies up to luxury cruising vessels, each striving to catch the evening breeze sweeping across the lake. The fact that these winds are generally pretty reliable makes Ray Hubbard one of Texas' most popular inland sailing venues. No fewer than three marinas around the lake offer services and slips for sailors, and weather permitting, races both formal and informal are held several times a week.

There can be no denying that the premier sailing event of the season is Dallas Race Week. Almost always held during the week of summer solstice in June, Race Week attracts sailors from all over North Texas. Started in 1984 by a group of local sailors, it was modeled after a week-long event held every spring in Antigua. The group, led by local racer Scott Self, had raced in the event and had so much fun that they decided to put one together in the Dallas area. Over the years, Race Week evolved into a fund raiser for local charities, and is now hosted by the Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club on behalf of non-profit groups in our area. This year's race, held a month later than usual to take advantage of the new docks at the harbor, raised approximately $20,000 through corporate sponsorships and entry fees.

Most participants of Race Week would agree that the thrill of the race is only half the fun. Local establishments such as the Hilton and Flying Saucer host after-race parties with food, drink and music, while private parties may spring up at a moment's notice at any number of docks. For many, this is the time to connect with friends they may see only once a year.

The race committee is charged with keeping the race fun by setting courses which are challenging while being easily observed by those on shore. A fleet of boats flying colorful spinnakers on a downwind leg is an undeniably beautiful sight to behold, whether from vantage points on land or on water. Scott Self and Stephen Straughan, this year's chairmen, set a series of courses with an even greater variety than usual. "This year", said Self, "we wanted to cover every corner of the lake to keep it interesting for the sailors, and to give more sponsors a chance to participate." For the first time, racers got a chance to start and finish in the area near Bass Pro, getting a chance to try out the new guest docks and to sample the amenities of the new restaurants in that part of the lake.

If you've been bitten by the sailing bug but don't have a boat, fret not. Many boat owners, or "skippers", have room on board for those with experience, or are willing to learn the sport. Taking lessons at a local sailing school is a good way to hook up with skippers in need of crew. Sometimes, just walking along the docks and striking up a conversation with a saling crew will get you on board. If keeping your legs on land is more your style, there are plenty of places to watch the action. The lighthouse at the Harbor and the jetty at Chandler's Landing are two of the best places to observe the start and finish lines. To the south, Rush Creek Yacht Club hosts at least one race a week offshore of their clubhouse. Those who want to get out on the water for a closer look, but don't want to work at trimming sails can try an evening cruise on the Seawolf . But be advised - getting that close to the action is likely to get you hooked. You'll be back for more.

You Make the Difference!

Provided By Lakepointe Church

Head on over today to Lakepointe Church to participate in the health fair and blood drive!

8am-1pm

@ the Rockwall Campus

Summer Fun For Rockwall Kids

Provided By Planet Rockwall

Rockwall Parks Department Summer Programs for Preschool & Youth

Registrations are currently being taken for preschool, youth and adult programs offered by the City of Rockwall Parks & Recreation Department for Spring 2010. For more information on any of the programs listed below please call 972-771-7740. You can register for a program by stopping by The Center at 108 E. Washington or mailing the registration form in the Fun Guide to “Fun Guide,” 108 E. Washington, Rockwall, Texas 75087.

For the Kids:
Looking for more fun for the kids this summer? Registration is underway for the following Preschool and Youth programs:

Texas Freestyle Karate on Tuesdays from 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Kamp Kinderdance beginning July 26 for ages 3 - 6 years at 10:15 am
Mad Science Super Sleuth: Spy Masters beginning on July 26 at 9:00 am for ages 6 - 12 years
Bubbles, Smoke & Explosions beginning on Aug 2 at 9:00 am for ages 6 - 12 years
Adventures in Art Camp beginning on August 2nd at 2:00 pm for ages 5 - 13 years
Mineral Wells State Park Rock Climbing Trip for ages 10 & Up on Saturday, July 31.

Check out the FunGuide or www.rockwall.com/parks for more detailed information and ALL upcoming Summer programs for kids & adults.

Underwater? Alternatives to Walking Away

Written By Broderick Perkins
Published By Realty Times
Source Rockwall KW Blog

Home owners who are "underwater" with their home loan and seek to come up for air by walking away from the debt, could still be gasping for relief years down the road.

There are occasions when walking away from your home -- and down the road to foreclosure -- is your only option, but seldom is it the best alternative.

Mortgages are "underwater" or "upside down" when the property experiences negative equity -- the mortgage is larger than the current value of the property. Negative equity is caused by a decline property value, an increase in mortgage debt or, most likely, both.

The consensus among experts is to consider the alternatives before abandoning your home, talk with your lender and seek counseling from a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Affairs (HUD) certified counselor.

Don Bisenius, the head of Freddie Mac's home-loan guarantee business, recently asked borrowers to stick it out through the crisis.

Bisenius said foreclosures lead to degraded neighborhoods, more expensive mortgages and reduced home values.

"In the end, borrowers considering a strategic default should recognize the damaging impact their actions can have on others," he wrote.

The Obama Administration's frequently updated and strengthened multi-tiered MakingHomeAffordable.com program and other government efforts offer a good start with a host of options.

• Refinancing, turning in your existing mortgage for a new one, is perhaps the toughest option to accomplish. A refinance requires meeting stiff underwriting requirements -- an excellent credit report, a high credit score of 720 or more, documented career level income and little debt, for starters.

Federal programs, including the Federal Housing Administration's refinance effort, can be a good bet for those who haven't yet faced hardship and can qualify for a new loan.

• A mortgage modification reworks the terms of existing loans to get the payment down to a more affordable level. To add greater affordability, lenders lower the interest rate, lengthen the term of the loan or reduce the principal -- or do some combination of all three. Modifications can be used by qualified home owners who aren't yet struggling as well as those who are in a pinch.

• Short sales

Modifications and short sales can impact your credit, but not necessarily with the force of a foreclosure.

Bottom line, exploring all the options is a better first step than walking away. I understand feeling financial pressure is difficult and embarrassing, but there is a point at which everyone has time to explore the options. In just about every case, that's much better than doing nothing at all. I strongly feel there is no reason for anyone to get a foreclosure" said Zdenka Mahan, a real estate agent with Intero Real Estate in Los Gatos.

Do you have questions about short sales, refinancing and loan modifications? Give Debbie Brown & Associates a call at 972-772-7029 or email us at debbie@debbie-brown.com.

Heat Advisory Through Sunday

Plan on taking extra steps to stay cool this weekend. Weather experts say we're in for serious --possibly dangerous -- heat through Sunday evening. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory until 7 p.m. Sunday. That means heat index values -- the "feels like" temperature -- will be 105 degrees or more in the afternoon. And overnight lows won't get below the upper 70s.

For a complete weather forescast, watch my Fox DFW.

If you're going to be outside any time today or this weekend, be sure to wear loose light clothing and drink plenty of water. If you're going to be out in the pool or on the lake, don't drink a lot of alcohol. Beer or any other alcohol will actually dehydrate you and make you more susceptable to heat-related illnesses.

The NWS also wants North Texans to check on elderly neighbors, and reminds everyone never to leave children or pets in a vehicle.

Concert on the Lake

Tonight at Harbor Rocks Blaze of Glory will be performing a Bon Jovi Tribute! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, family and friends for some FUNtertainment! Music festivities begin tonight at 7:30. See you there!

Toyota Cup Triathlon

Published By The City of Rockwall

The 2010 Life Time Fitness Triathlon Series Race to the Toyota Cup will be held in Dallas on October 10. This year, the Toyota U.S. Open Triathlon features a new course at The Harbor in Rockwall.

The new course changes the event from its original point-to-point format to a circular course. It offers a 1,500m swim at Lake Ray Hubbard, with a 40k bike ride through the community of Rockwall, and a 10k run that starts and ends at The Harbor in Rockwall.

“We are thrilled and proud to be hosting the U.S. Open, where the Race to the Toyota Cup Champions will be crowned,” said Rockwall Mayor Bill Cecil. “The Harbor complex is the perfect setting for this event, for athletes and spectators alike.”

Held four consecutive years in Dallas, the Toyota U.S. Open Triathlon serves as the championship event for the six-race Life Time Fitness Triathlon Series Race to the Toyota Cup.

“I am excited about our new course design which improves participant logistic and spectator viewing,” said Dave Campbell, vice president, Life Time Fitness Athletic Events. “Logistically, the new course will substantially enhance participants’ experience, streamlining equipment transportation, transition areas and lodging. For participants and spectators alike, the Harbor offers the perfect landscape.”


For more information, please go to racetothetoyotacup.com.

Movie Night at the Harbor

Nothing beats an ice cold drink and hot buttered popcorn. Check out these summer flicks at Cinemark 12 at the Harbor!

Opening Today

• Despicable Me
• Predators

Top Box Office

• The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
• The Last Airbender
• Toy Story 3
• Grown Ups
• The Karate Kid

Pick a flick, head out to the Harbor and sit back, relax and enjoy the show!