Foundation provides funds to IBT for powerful imaging system
The Houston-based John S. Dunn Research Foundation has pledged $250,000 to the A&M System Health Science Center Institute of Biosciences and Technology for a 3-D laser scanning confocal microscope.

First mirror cast on Giant Magellan Telescope
The casting of the first mirror of the Giant Magellan Telescope in Arizona is a big step in the process of creating the largest telescope ever built.

Hurricane season ends, but 2006 could be a repeat
The 2005 hurricane season is over, but don’t put up those shutters just yet, says Texas State Climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon. Damage totals for the 2005 hurricane season easily exceeded the $200 billion mark, and more intense storms for 2006 and beyond could occur.

Phorid fly release to help with fire ant control in Bexar County
Red imported fire ants are now the dominant ant species in the eastern two-thirds of Texas. For the first time in Bexar County, Texas Cooperative Extension will oversee the release of phorid flies, a biological control for fire ants in other Texas counties. The release will take place before year’s end at Walker Ranch in northern San Antonio.

TEES, Round Rock ISD celebrate $7.2 million grant
The Center for Community Support in the Texas Engineering Experiment Station has helped Round Rock ISD secure a $7.2 million grant as part of a program that will benefit about 25 community-based organizations.