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State Representative Diana Maldonado (HD-52) will host a Higher Education Community Forum Thursday October 22nd, to discuss current higher education programs as well as increased opportunities that are planned in House District 52.

The Community Forum is open to the public and will consist of a panel discussion involving experts from the Round Rock Higher Education Center, Austin Community College, and the East Williamson Higher Education Center (EWCHEC).

“Ensuring our students have access to a quality and affordable higher education is paramount to building a strong economy and a vibrant community,” Maldonado said. “With numerous educational institutions located throughout Williamson County, this area is well positioned to become a regional leader for students and educators.”

What: Community Forum on Higher Education
When: Thursday, October 22nd at 5:00 p.m.
Where: Round Rock Higher Education Center, 1555 University Blvd., Round Rock

This is the second in a series of Community Forum’s Maldonado will be hosting to discuss issues of importance facing communities and residents throughout House District 52.

Maldonado is serving her first term in the Texas House of Representatives and represents House District 52 which encompasses a portion of Williamson County, including Round Rock, Taylor, Hutto, Thrall, Coupland and part of Georgetown and Austin.

On Monday, State Senator Leticia Van De Putte and State Representative Chris Turner will be joined by Texas veterans’ leaders at a press conference to unveil the Veterans Cash Texas Lottery scratch-off ticket, which will go on sale November 9, 2009 and will benefit the Permanent Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA).

What: Press Conference with State Senator Leticia Van De Putte, State Representative Chris Turner and Texas veterans leaders to unveil the Veterans Cash Texas Lottery Scratch-Off Ticket

When: Monday, October 19, 2009; 10AM

Where: Texas Capitol; Speaker’s Committee Room, 2W.6

During the 81st Legislative Session, State Senator Van De Putte and State Representative Turner authored and passed legislation creating a lottery ticket to benefit Texas veterans.

The $2 scratch-off ticket will provide a funding mechanism for the FVA, which will provide grants to organizations that give direct support to individual veterans and/or their families.

The passage of the measure creating the lottery scratch-off game has been a top priority for veterans’ organizations across Texas.