Vestra Resources News / Blog http://www.vestra.com/blog/ Vestra Resources News / Blog Thu May 17 20:42:16 2012 en Hourly 1 <![CDATA[2012 VESTRA Math, Science, and Technology Scholarship Recipients]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/2012-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship-recipients.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/2012-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship-recipients.html#comment Wed May 9 0:00:00 2012 After much consideration, the Scholarship Committee has chosen this year’s VESTRA Scholarship award winners. The Committee was tasked with making a difficult choice among the top slate of final extremely qualified student candidates. The 2012 VESTRA Math, Science and Technology Scholarship award recipients are Lily Tanner, Ryan Caster, and Claire Pfeiffer.
 
Lily Tanner is a University Preparatory School student who will be attending UC Davis in the fall. Her intended major is Geology with an overall goal of completing a Bachelor’s of Science, Master’s of Science, and PhD program in geology to become a research scientist. She is a graduate of the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science Program (COSMOS) at UC San Diego, a summer residential program for high-achieving math and science students. Also, she has participated in an internship with LGH Market Strategy, served as co-captain for the University Preparatory School’s Science Bowl Team, served as a Link Crew leader, and is involved in many other leadership and extracurricular activities. Lily Tanner will be receiving an award of $1,000 to further her studies at UC Davis.
 
Ryan Caster is a Foothill High School and College Connection student who will be attending UC Davis in the fall. His intended major is Chemistry in pursuit of a career as a Biomedical Engineer. He considers his greatest achievement over the years as his participation in the Boy Scouts, which he has been involved with for the past 6 years. He has devoted a considerable amount of time and dedication to Scouts, moving through the ranks from Cub Scout all the way to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He will continue participation in scouting as a Venture Scout. Ryan Caster will be receiving an award of $1,000 to further his studies at UC Davis.
 
Claire Pfeiffer is a University Preparatory School student who will be attending the University of Portland in the fall. Her intended major is Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. She is a graduate of the COSMOS Program, Robots and Rockets group, at UC Irvine. A few of her many other achievements include participation in the Civil Air Patrol and Leadership U-Prep, and serving as the varsity softball team captain and varsity swim captain. Claire Pfeiffer will be receiving an award of $500 to further her studies.
 
]]> <![CDATA[FEMA Assistance Services for Real Estate Professionals]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/fema-assistance-services-for-real-estate-professionals.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/fema-assistance-services-for-real-estate-professionals.html#comment Mon May 7 0:00:00 2012 Have you recently been assisting a potential homebuyer with financing, only to find out from the mortgage lender that flood insurance will be required? If so, here is the reason why:
 
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) updated their Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Maps in March 2011. This revised study may have resulted in the subject property now being situated in a high-risk area, designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), and requiring the obtainment of flood insurance. This requirement is mandatory for all federal or federally backed financial-assisted acquisitions and/or construction of buildings in SFHAs. This would also apply to refinancing a house using a federally backed financial institution. If flood insurance is not obtained, the lender will force the purchase, which could be at a much higher rate.  
 
In this economy, the flood insurance requirement could potentially be a deal breaker when the buyer finds out it will increase their monthly payment by as much as $200 to $250. Here at VESTRA Resources Inc., we have already helped several realtors and homeowners/buyers in Shasta, Tehama, and Lassen Counties. They also had received notice requiring flood insurance.
 
If a lender or insurance company is now requiring that flood insurance be added to a house, there may be a way to minimize the annual premium, or even alleviate the need for flood insurance altogether. Here is how we may be able to help you:  
 
  • FEMA Elevation Certificate: Includes a required site visit by a Licensed Land Surveyor to measure existing elevations of the house, adjacent ground, and various other related items around the exterior of the house. After the survey, a certificate form will be completed and we can determine if the house qualifies for removal from the SFHA. (The Elevation Certificate may help to determine a lower flood insurance rate, if insurance is still required).
  • FEMA Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA): If the results of the initial survey and Elevation Certificate indicate that the house meets the criteria for application to be removed from the SFHA, the forms and application process with FEMA can be completed. A successful application results in a Letter of Determination from FEMA which removes the structure from the SFHA and also removes the requirement for mandatory flood insurance. (However, the lender may still wish to protect their financial interest by requiring flood insurance).
 To discuss your particular needs and possible solutions, please call Dave Eggen at (530) 223-2585.
 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[FEMA Assistance for Homeowners]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/fema-assistance-for-homeowners.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/fema-assistance-for-homeowners.html#comment Mon May 7 0:00:00 2012 Have you recently been contacted by your mortgage lender or insurance agent regarding the need to obtain flood insurance? If so, here is the reason why:
 
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) updated their Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Maps in March 2011. This revised study may have resulted in your property now being situated in a high-risk area, designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), and requiring you to obtain flood insurance. This requirement is mandatory for all federal or federally backed financial-assisted acquisitions and/or construction of buildings in SFHAs. This would also apply to refinancing a house using a federally backed financial institution. If you do not obtain flood insurance, the lender will force the purchase, which could be at a much higher rate.  
 
If you are now being required by your lender or insurance company to add flood insurance to your house, there may be a way to minimize your annual premium, or even alleviate the need for flood insurance altogether. Here at VESTRA Resources Inc., we have already helped several homeowners in your neighborhood who had received notice requiring flood insurance. Here is how we may be able to help you:  
 
  •  FEMA Elevation Certificate: Includes a required site visit by a Licensed Land Surveyor to measure existing elevations of your house, adjacent ground, and various other related items around the exterior of the house. After the survey, a certificate form will be completed, and we can determine if you qualify for removal of your house from the SFHA. (The Elevation Certificate may help to determine flood insurance rates, if insurance is still required).
  •  FEMA Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA): If the results of the initial survey and Elevation Certificate indicate that you meet the criteria for application to remove your house from the SFHA, the forms and application process with FEMA can be completed. A successful application results in a Letter of Determination from FEMA which removes the structure from the SFHA and also removes the requirement for mandatory flood insurance. (However, your lender may still wish to protect their financial interest by requiring flood insurance).
 To discuss your particular needs and possible solutions, please call Dave Eggen at (530) 223-2585.
 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA at CalGIS - April 11-13 ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-at-calgis-april-11-13.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-at-calgis-april-11-13.html#comment Mon Apr 9 0:00:00 2012

CalGIS 2012 will take place April 11-13 at the Sheraton Sacramento

VESTRA proudly presents the GeoSystems Monitor providing intimate real-time knowledge of your Enterprise GIS and of all its moving parts necessary to troubleshoot. As a leader in GIS/IT, Environmental Solutions, Engineering, and Surveying, VESTRA has the depth of know-how and experience to help clients achieve success.

Come see us at Booth #209 for a free demo.

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Quarterly Blood Drive - Tuesday, April 17th]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-tuesday-april-17th.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-tuesday-april-17th.html#comment Tue Apr 3 0:00:00 2012 The VESTRA quarterly blood drive will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2012, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. If you would like to donate at this location, please schedule your appointment today at www.bloodcenters.org, sponsor code: MVES, or (530) 722-3043.

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Scholarship 2012 - Application Period Now Closed ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-scholarship-2012-application-period-now-closed.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-scholarship-2012-application-period-now-closed.html#comment Mon Mar 19 0:00:00 2012
The application period for the 2012 VESTRA Scholarship Program is now closed. Thank you to all of those who submitted applications. VESTRA’s scholarship committee will soon begin the review process for this year’s scholarship award recipients. Good luck to all of the scholarship applicants.
 
VESTRA encourages continuing education and enjoys seeing individuals aspire to their full potential. If you missed the deadline for this year’s scholarship, remember to check back next spring for the updated application and information.

]]> <![CDATA[Apply Today for the 2012 VESTRA Math, Science and Technology Scholarship]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/apply-today-for-the-2012-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/apply-today-for-the-2012-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship.html#comment Fri Feb 10 0:00:00 2012 The engineering, environmental sciences, and computer technology disciplines require well-trained, well-educated staff. To support the development of qualified candidates in these careers, VESTRA Resources Inc. has sponsored scholarships to students in our community since 2003. 
 
In 2012, VESTRA will be awarding one or more $1,000 scholarships for local high school students or continuing college students designed to encourage careers in the fields of math, natural or physical sciences, technologies, and related areas of study. These career areas reflect the discipline requirements for the types of projects completed by VESTRA. The scholarships are open to high school graduates who will be attending an accredited 4-year college or university and continuing students at 4-year accredited colleges or universities in the fields of math, natural or physical sciences, technologies, and related areas of study. Additional funds may also be allocated based on committee recommendations. 
 
The VESTRA scholarship program is merit based, rather than based on financial need; the purpose is to recognize and assist outstanding young high school graduates and college undergraduates. We consider academic performance, leadership, and career interest. Preference will be given to students that have completed either calculus or statistics, or other advanced classes in math and science. The scholarship program is limited to residents of Shasta County and does not apply to students who will be attending 2-year or junior college programs. Applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 3.5 as a graduating senior. Continuing college students may reapply in order to compete for 1 additional year.
 
If you have questions regarding the scholarship program, please contact Wendy Johnston at (530) 223-2585 or wjohnston@vestra.com.
 
Applications must be postmarked by Monday, March 12, 2012.
 
 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Announces Multiple Sales of its GeoSystems Monitor™]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-announces-multiple-sales-of-its-geosystems-monitor.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-announces-multiple-sales-of-its-geosystems-monitor.html#comment Mon Dec 19 0:00:00 2011  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA)
Heather Croom
Business Development Manager
530-223-2585
 
 
VESTRA Announces Multiple Sales of its GeoSystems Monitor™
 
 
VESTRA Resources, Inc. announced today that the State of Tennessee Department of Transportation, State of Oregon, Office of DAS Enterprise Information Strategy, Policy Division (EISPD) and Geospatial Enterprise Office (GEO) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), have all acquired licenses of the GeoSystems Monitor™, an enterprise GIS application monitor and alert system.
 
In a following statement, VESTRA announced that Version 1.2 of the GeoSystems Monitor™  is in development for a Summer 2012 release.
 
The GeoSystems Monitor™ is being incorporated into a growing list of enterprise GIS clients, State of Tennessee Department of Transportation, State of Oregon, Office of DAS Enterprise Information Strategy, Policy Division (EISPD) and Geospatial Enterprise Office (GEO), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD), City of Redding and more.
 
About GeoSystems Monitor™  
VESTRA's GeoSystems Monitor™ provides real-time information on the status of an agency's Enterprise GIS. The GeoSystems Monitor™ generates this information by monitoring the applications (points) that reside on your servers, allowing the GIS/IT professional the ability to troubleshoot issues and/or non-responsive applications as they occur. When the GeoSystems Monitor™ detects an issue, an immediate notification is sent to the GIS/IT professional via email or text, allowing them to formulate a proactive resolution. This allows for both increased productivity and improved system uptime.
 
VESTRA's GeoSystems Monitor™ software responds to the growing need for organizations world-wide to maximize enterprise GIS reliability. For more information, please visit our website: http://www.vestra.com/products/
 
See what our Clients are saying about us:
“The fact that we knew of the outage and no one else did is exactly what attracted me to this package.
We have a tool that will help us be more proactive in our management. Good news to hear!
(Not the outage, the knowledge!) ”
 
Mr. Kim H. McDonough, GISP
Tennessee Department of Transportation, GIS Coordinator

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[November 1-5 VESTRA will be hosting a booth at the URISA's 49th Annual GIS-Pro Conference]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/november-1-5-vestra-will-be-hosting-a-booth-at-the-urisas-49th-annual-gis-pro-conference.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/november-1-5-vestra-will-be-hosting-a-booth-at-the-urisas-49th-annual-gis-pro-conference.html#comment Fri Oct 28 0:00:00 2011 November 1-5 VESTRA will be hosting a booth at the URISA's 49th Annual GIS-Pro Conference showcasing the Geosystems Monitor's New Release Version 1.1.

VESTRA's Geosystems Monitor enhances GIS up-time and effectiveness by providing intimate real-time knowledge of your Enterprise Geographic Information System and of all of its moving parts necessary to troubleshoot. When the monitor detects an issue, an immediate notification is sent to the GIS/IT Professional via email or text, allowing them to formulate a proactive resolution.

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Quarterly Blood Drive - Tuesday, October 18th]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-tuesday-october-18th.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-tuesday-october-18th.html#comment Tue Oct 11 0:00:00 2011
The VESTRA quarterly blood drive will be held on Tuesday, October 18, 2011, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. If you would like to donate at this location, please schedule your appointment today at www.bloodcenters.org, sponser code: MVES, or call (530) 722-3043. 
 
 
]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Supports 2011 Trinity County Fair Junior Livestock Auction]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-supports-2011-trinity-county-fair-junior-livestock-auction.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-supports-2011-trinity-county-fair-junior-livestock-auction.html#comment Wed Aug 31 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA supported two livestock exhibitors at the 2011 Trinity County Fair Junior Livestock Auction. The livestock purchased were a market turkey, sold by Dane Robison, and a market hog, sold by Alfred Colegrove.
 
VESTRA looks forward to supporting the Trinity County Junior Livestock Sale in 2012.
 
 

Exhibitor: Dane Robison

Exhibitor: Alfred Colegrove

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA's Robert Carey Recognized in The Wildlife Professional Magazine]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestras-robert-carey-recognized-in-the-wildlife-professional-magazine.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestras-robert-carey-recognized-in-the-wildlife-professional-magazine.html#comment Wed Aug 31 0:00:00 2011 Robert Carey, VESTRA’s Certified Wildlife Biologist, was recently recognized in an article in The Wildlife Professional magazine published by The Wildlife Society (TWS). Mr. Carey received recognition for his involvement in forming a TWS Working Group focusing on forestry and wildlife issues. The group was formed in efforts to improve communication in the forest industry at the national level. 
 
To learn more about these types of working groups and how you can become more involved, please visit The Wildlife Society website at http://joomla.wildlife.org/.
 
]]> <![CDATA[Breanna Owens Completes CA Certified Rangeland Management Program]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/breanna-owens-completes-ca-certified-rangeland-management-program.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/breanna-owens-completes-ca-certified-rangeland-management-program.html#comment Tue Aug 2 0:00:00 2011 We are pleased to announce Breanna Owens, VESTRA's Regulatory Biologist and Range Specialist has been certified as a Rangeland Manager.  As a CA Certified Rangeland Manager Breanna is able to make management recommendations, develop conservation and management plans, grazing prescriptions, and other rangeland management activities.  She will also be meeting the state licensing requirements for conducting professional range management activities on forested landscapes.
 
For more information on the CA Certified Rangeland Manager program, visit http://www.rangelands.org/casrm/index.html.

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Staff Member Sworn into Shasta County Search and Rescue]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-staff-member-sworn-into-shasta-county-search-and-rescue.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-staff-member-sworn-into-shasta-county-search-and-rescue.html#comment Fri Jul 29 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA Geologist George Low was sworn in as a member of the Shasta County Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) Wednesday afternoon.  The GSAR is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the community by maintaining the safety of both residents and visitors in Shasta County by providing rapid response search and rescues, evacuations, or other duties that may be required in the area.  George's dedication to the community is both admirable and greatly appreciated.

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Staff Member Completes Master of Science degree in Environmental Chemistry]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-staff-member-completes-master-of-science-degree-in-environmental-chemistry.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-staff-member-completes-master-of-science-degree-in-environmental-chemistry.html#comment Fri Jul 29 0:00:00 2011 Melissa Markee, an environmental scientist at VESTRA, recently completed her Master of Science degree in Environmental Chemistry with a Focus on Environmental Biogeochemical Cycling from the University of Nevada, Reno. Melissa worked as a graduate research assistant in projects related to mercury in the aquatic environment, and as partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree submitted a thesis based upon these findings entitled Investigation of causal factors influencing mercury concentrations in fish tissues in five Nevada reservoirs. She is planning to submit the study’s findings related to the foodweb dynamics and mercury cycling in five Nevada reservoirs to peer-reviewed journals.]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA becomes an Esri Gold Tier Partner]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-becomes-an-esri-gold-tier-partner.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-becomes-an-esri-gold-tier-partner.html#comment Tue Jul 19 0:00:00 2011  

VESTRA Resources, Inc. reaffirmed its commitment to excellence by joining the Esri Partner Network as a Gold Tier member. Membership in the program requires a rigorous review of the partner’s commitment, solutions, clients, market reach and its reputation in the industry. Said Art Stackhouse, President of VESTRA, "Becoming a Gold Tier partner allows us to work even closer with Esri to develop and implement great solutions. Although we have been an Esri partner for over 20 years, we are pleased that Esri has acknowledged us in this way."

About Esri
Since 1969, Esri has been giving customers around the world the power to think and plan geographically. The market leader in geographic information system (GIS) technology, Esri software is used in more than 300,000 organizations worldwide including each of the 200 largest cities in the United States, most national governments, more than two-thirds of Fortune 500 companies, and more than 7,000 colleges and universities. Esri applications, running on more than one million desktops and thousands of Web and enterprise servers, provide the backbone for the world's mapping and spatial analysis. Esri is the only vendor that provides complete technical solutions for desktop, mobile, server, and Internet platforms. Visit us at esri.com/news.
 
About VESTRA
VESTRA began in 1988 as a firm specializing in Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies for use in resource management decisions, and was among the first consulting firms in the United States offering a full spectrum of GIS development services. Throughout the years, VESTRA has continued providing clients with quality cutting edge solutions incorporating GIS. VESTRA now offers a multidisciplinary team of Geographic Information System (GIS) and Information Technology (IT) professionals, engineers, and environmental scientists. VESTRA’s staff of information technology and project management professionals includes system designers, solution developers, and application programmers whose skill sets often include engineering, surveying, biology, geology, hydro-geology, and other environmental sciences. Our diverse staff provides clients with a full-spectrum of information technology services complimented with applied knowledge in a wide array of disciplines including: water resources, environmental remediation, regulatory compliance, permitting, asset management, community planning, and emergency management. By understanding the clients vision and bringing it into focus, we solidity our position as the firm of choice in all of the markets we serve.
 
VESTRA has completed hundreds of GIS development projects for federal and state agencies, local governments, and commercial clients that include business analyses, strategic and implementation planning, database design and development, custom application design and programming, commercial software installation, configuration, integration and testing, user and administration training, and rollout technical support.


]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA's Mark Ping and Adam Knight glimpsed the future of GIS development.]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/industry-news/general/vestras-mark-ping-and-adam-knight-glimpsed-the-future-of-gis-development.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/industry-news/general/vestras-mark-ping-and-adam-knight-glimpsed-the-future-of-gis-development.html#comment Wed Jul 6 0:00:00 2011 2011 Esri Developer Summit previews a promising future
By Carla Wheeler, Esri Writer
This article as a PDF.
 
Mark Ping and Adam Knight glimpsed the future of GIS development.
Ping and Knight, who both work for Esri partner VESTRA Resources, Inc., in Redding, California, were first-time attendees of the Esri Developer Summit. They were among the 1,350 developers who attended the world's largest developer summit devoted to GIS, held March 7–10, 2011, in Palm Springs, California.
 
And the future looks promising. "The possibilities are enormous. My eyes are being opened," said Knight, impressed by a demonstration of the ability of ArcGIS Server 10.1 to calculate and draw drive-time polgons and retrieve and display demographic data for those areas in mere milliseconds.
 
Developers came from all over the United States, Canada, Australia, Austria, Sweden, and Belgium to learn how to use Esri technology when developing applications for desktop, web, and mobile technologies; share best practices and development patterns; exchange ideas; and solve problems. They also got a sneak peek at what's being developed for ArcGIS 10.1, which will be in beta in June and is slated for release in late 2011 or early 2012.
 
The summit largely drew desktop application developers, but developers for web and mobile technologies were well represented too. ArcGIS supports multiple implementation patterns, including those that are rapidly emerging for cloud/web and mobile GIS.
 
That pleased Ping, a big fan of the Android operating system that's on his smartphone. "I'm impressed with the smartphone platform," he said after watching a demonstration of ArcGIS for Android. Esri will also offer an API for building GIS-enabled applications for Android devices. Both the app and API will be released this spring. "I see the [Android] platform as dominating the mobile market, so I'm glad to see Esri embracing it," Ping said.
 
Bringing New Applications to Life
Esri president Jack Dangermond opened the summit by emphasizing the important role that developers play in bringing new applications that utilize Esri technology to their users. "Increasingly, there's a gap between what we develop and what needs to be developed to make people really productive," said Dangermond, adding that this is where the developer community steps in. "That takes special talents. It takes the talent of understanding what's needed and wanted, then engineering—thinking through, designing, and creating—that special application that really works."
Scott Morehouse, director of software development for Esri, echoed Dangermond's sentiment about the collaborative spirit. "We're here together because we want to build great stuff," he said. "Our purpose is to build a platform for working with maps and geographic information, which you can leverage to do great work. The goal is to create systems of information that bring geographic data and understanding about the real world to life for real people."
Morehouse said Esri is increasingly developing for the web/cloud and mobile device environments.
 
"We are moving more functionality from the enterprise style of system building into a cloud or web style of system building," he told developers. "We are looking to move our services architecture into a hosted environment. We will move more desktop functionality into lightweight mapping applications that run on [smart]phones and [other mobile] devices and in browsers."
Watch the video of his presentation.
 
ArcGIS Online
Sud Menon, from Esri's software development team, described ArcGIS Online as being "ArcGIS available to you as an online, cloud-based system." On smartphones, tablets, or desktops, ArcGIS Online offers free access to maps, apps, and tools published by Esri and other GIS users. ArcGIS Online users, who now number more than 60,000, can also create and share maps within a community of interest or with everyone.
Watch the video of his presentation.
Esri's Jeremy Bartley demonstrated ArcGIS Explorer Online, showing the newly added support for time, editing, and pop-up windows. "Great web maps need great pop-ups," he said, showing the developers how to configure pop-up windows using the USA Household Income map as an example. "It makes for a compelling map when you can provide key information to your users."
Mobile GIS
Dave Cardella, product manager for Esri mobile technologies, said that ArcGIS runs on many mobile platforms and devices. "We have ready-to-deploy applications and APIs. The applications are configurable. Some of them are customizable. They are all built on an API we make available for you," he said.
 
ArcGIS and ArcGIS Mobile are excellent solutions for the Windows Mobile platform, Cardella said, noting that new functionality is currently being added to ArcPad and ArcGIS Mobile applications and software development kits (SDKs) to improve both customization and the overall user experience.
 
"The smartphone and tablet market has really exploded. We see these devices increasingly being implemented within organizations that want to extend the reach of their GIS from the office out into the field," said Cardella. "They want to replace their paper-based workflows and improve the currency and the accuracy of their data—all in an effort to make more timely and accurate decisions. Since we last met, we have been hard at work improving the capabilities and tools you need to build solutions for these platforms."
Watch the video of his presentation.
 
For iOS and Windows Phone, Esri offers both a deployable application and an API that now include data collection and editing capabilities. The ArcGIS for Android application has the same data collection and editing capabilities. [It was released in May 2011; version 1 of the API was officially released in April 2011.]
For all these applications, users can add attribute information; edit points, lines, or polygons; and add attachments such as images, movies, PDFs, and Microsoft Word documents, Cardella said.
 
ArcGIS Portal
As part of the release of ArcGIS 10.1, Esri will offer customized versions of ArcGIS Online for use behind a firewall. ArcGIS Portal, a software product that will run in an organization's private cloud, will offer the same collaboration and sharing tools as ArcGIS Online but in a secure, on-site environment to protect proprietary, sensitive, or confidential data. The portals will become the central repository for authoritative content that users inside organizations can access to
  • Quickly create maps and apps using templates and web mapping APIs.
  • Form groups to collaborate on projects or common activities.
  • Share maps and apps with private groups or the entire organization.
  • Embed maps and apps in custom web pages or blogs.
Configurable Web Client Viewers
Esri lead software architect Art Haddad demonstrated ArcGIS Viewer for Microsoft Silverlight, a site starter application for creating a web client viewer for ArcGIS Server and ArcGIS Online services that also works with web maps from arcgis.com. Built on ArcGIS API for Microsoft Silverlight, it includes an application builder that enables users to quickly and easily create a fully functional, custom web client viewer through a user-friendly application user interface that includes a What You See Is What You Get (WYSIWYG) preview. No programming or configuration file editing is required. This application is ideal for nondeveloper users and novice web application creators. It is currently available in public beta from the Esri Beta Community site. Mansour Raad from Esri also demonstrated an early prototype of the ArcGIS Viewer for Flex application builder. Both viewer application builders are targeted for release at the 2011 Esri International User Conference (Esri UC).
Watch the video of this presentation.
 
Heart of the Summit
ArcGIS program manager Jim McKinney called the technical sessions the "heart of the summit." The 30 user presentations this year included A Year of Silverlight—Tips and Tricks; Designing a GIS App for the Facebook Generation; Cloud Love: Moving Off Premises Step by Step; and Becoming a Python Developer: Leveraging the Language and Community Tools. Esri also hosted 70 technical sessions, including Choosing a Mobile Development Platform; Building and Using the Esri Social Media VGIS Mapping Application; ArcGIS for Defense/Intel—A Developer's Guide; Creating, Managing, and Utilizing a 3D Virtual City in 10; and ArcGIS 10.1 and the Road Ahead.
 
First Look at 10.1
"I was blown away by what was shown in progress for 10.1, in particular the improved performance and increased support for and emphasis on Python," said Ping, a senior software developer. "It absolutely justifies our efforts to build reusable tools in Python and train [our] GIS experts in the programming language."
 
Knight, who also works as a software developer, was struck by the improvements in speed in ArcGIS 10.1, the new ArcGIS Viewer for Microsoft Silverlight, and the enhancements in ArcGIS API for Microsoft Silverlight. Being new to the Developer Summit, he said he arrived in Palm Springs with some preconceived notions. "I think I was expecting to be trained on how to do certain things," said Knight. "Once I realized this wasn't the case, I was able to get much more out of it. I realized that the purpose of the DevSummit was to show us as developers what is possible and how we can use Esri's technologies. Though I definitely did learn how to do some things, I know what is possible and can now go learn how to do it."
 
Resources

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Supports 2011 Shasta Junior Livestock Sale]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-supports-2011-shasta-junior-livestock-sale.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-supports-2011-shasta-junior-livestock-sale.html#comment Tue Jun 28 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA supported three livestock exhibitors at the 2011 Shasta Junior Livestock Sale on Saturday, June 18, 2011. The market animals purchased were the Grand Champion Poultry Meat Pen, sold by Reese Whitehead of the Happy Valley 4-H Club; the FFA Reserve Champion Market Goat, sold by Michelle Cowee of West Valley FFA; and a market lamb, sold by Andrea Canavan of Anderson FFA.

VESTRA looks forward to supporting the 2012 Shasta Junior Livestock Sale.

Reese Whitehead of Happy Valley 4-H
Grand Champion
Poultry Meat Pen Exhibitor
Michelle Cowee of West Valley FFA
Reserve Grand Champion
Market Goat Exhibitor
Andrea Canavan of Anderson FFA
Market Lamb Exhibitor

 

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department Wins - CAL FIRE San Diego Automatic Vehicle Location Project Award ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-san-diego-automatic-vehicle-location-project-award.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-san-diego-automatic-vehicle-location-project-award.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to add Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) functionality to the Northrop Grumman Altaris Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) System in the Monte Vista Unit (MVU) located in El Cajon, California. The AVL upgrade will enable the MVU CAD system to receive position (latitude/longitude) updates from aircraft and ground resources, increasing the accuracy and effectiveness of command control operations.
]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department Wins - CAL FIRE State Responsibility Area (SRA) Data Update Automation Project Award ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-state-responsibility-area-sra-data-update-automation-project-award.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-state-responsibility-area-sra-data-update-automation-project-award.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to provide automation for the State Responsibility Area (SRA) data update. CAL FIRE is required to maintain official maps of the SRA’s, where the State has financial responsibility for preventing and suppressing fires as determined by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (PRC 4102-4125). SRA is currently maintained as digital data in Geographic Information System (GIS) format, which is used to create official maps posted on the internet.
]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department - CAL FIRE PFE ColorMap and IMT Tools Update Award ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-cal-fire-pfe-colormap-and-imt-tools-update-award.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-cal-fire-pfe-colormap-and-imt-tools-update-award.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to develop a set of Geographic Information System (GIS) tools (“PFE ColorMap and the CDF Incident Mapping Tools”) in 2002-04 for use in the fire incident mapping and everyday GIS work. These tools are used to facilitate the process of creating standard fire incident maps in a timely and consistent manner. With the release of Esri next generations software ArcGIS 10, a significant redesigned needs to be pursued. CAL FIRE has retained VESTRA to upgrade the tools to be compatible with the new version of the software.
]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department Wins - CAL FIRE Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit Wall Map Award ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-sonoma-lake-napa-unit-wall-map-award.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-cal-fire-sonoma-lake-napa-unit-wall-map-award.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit has retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to develop  an 8 foot by 8 foot Operations wall map.  
]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department Wins - City of Redding Migration/Upgrade ArcGIS Server Contract ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-city-of-redding-migration-upgrade-arcgis-server-contract.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-city-of-redding-migration-upgrade-arcgis-server-contract.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011  

The City of Redding has retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to provide assistance with migration/upgrade of ArcGIS Server, ArcSDE, and Microsoft SQL Server to version 10. VESTRA will perform support with GIS customization, integration, implementation and training at the request of the GIS/IT department for the City of Redding.   
]]> <![CDATA[GIS Department Wins - California Employment Development Department ArcGIS Software Support Contract ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-california-employment-development-department-arcgis-software-support-contract.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/gis-department-wins-california-employment-development-department-arcgis-software-support-contract.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011  

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) has retained VESTRA Resources, Inc. (VESTRA) to provide assistance of ArcGIS software support service for the Labor Market Information Department.    
]]> <![CDATA[Agricultural Engineering Wins - Agricultural Water Enhancement Program Project Awards ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/agricultural-engineering-wins-agricultural-water-enhancement-program-project-awards.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/agricultural-engineering-wins-agricultural-water-enhancement-program-project-awards.html#comment Wed Jun 8 0:00:00 2011 Natural Resources Conservation Service funded a multi-year project through their Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP).  The projects are part of the Anderson-Cottonwood Irrigation District system and involve piping of degraded earthen irrigation ditches.  VESTRA as a Technical Service Provider (TSP) will be conducting field topographic surveying, design of the irrigation piping system, inspection of the construction and final sign off of the projects.  The irrigation piping systems consist of either HDPE or PVC main line piping, concrete junction boxes and inlet structures with headgates, and alfalfa valves with risers for pasture irrigation.  Four projects are approved for 2011 in Churn Creek Bottom and Anderson.

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Employee Recognized in Local News]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-employee-recognized-in-local-news.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-employee-recognized-in-local-news.html#comment Thu May 26 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA employee, Anne Junge, has become a certified Doula to help expecting parents through the process of childbirth.  Anne's Doula certification with DONA International and volunteer services at Enloe Medical Center in Chico have been recently recognized in a news article on newsreview.com. To read the full article, please visit the following link:
 
]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Supports Sierra Cascade Logging Conference]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-supports-sierra-cascade-logging-conference.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-supports-sierra-cascade-logging-conference.html#comment Thu May 26 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA sponsored the 2011 logging exhibition at the Sierra Cascade Logging Conference in Redding this February. The Cal Poly Logging Team came in at a close 2nd during the event. We look forward to supporting the logging exhibition during the 2012 logging exhibition event.

Sierra Cascade Logging Conference 2011
Cal Poly Logging Team

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA will be hosting a booth at Esri International User Conference July 10-15, 2011 ]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-will-be-hosting-a-booth-at-esri-international-user-conference-july-10-15-2011.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-will-be-hosting-a-booth-at-esri-international-user-conference-july-10-15-2011.html#comment Thu May 26 0:00:00 2011 OnJuly 10-15, 2011 VESTRA Resources, Inc. will be hosting a booth at the Esri International User Conference, San Diego, CA showcasing the Geosystems Monitor's New Release Version 1.1.

VESTRA's Geosystems Monitor enhances GIS uptime and effectiveness by providing intimate real-time knowledge of your Enterprise Geographic Information System and of all of its moving parts necessary to troubleshoot. When the monitor detects an issue, an immediate notification is sent to the GIS/IT Professional via email or text, allowing them to formulate a proactive resolution.

Hope to see you there!

]]> <![CDATA[Geosystems Monitor New Release Version 1.1]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/geosystems-monitor-new-release-version-1-1.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/geosystems-monitor-new-release-version-1-1.html#comment Thu May 26 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA will be releasing Version 1.1 of it's Geosystems Monitor June 30, 2011. The new release includes the following features and enhancements:

Features: 

  • Historical Database status and response times of points
  • Notification if/when a point comes back up
  • Enhanced alert message notification
  • Automatic Daily Backup of Monitor Database
  • Enhanced Windows system event logging
  • Measuring Response time of points
  • Daily Summary Status email of GIS Monitor
  • Report/Print Complete configuration
           

Ability to:

  • Turn Alerts on/off globally
  • Set exclusion times globally
  • Enter User defined monitoring points
  • Test Alerting functionality/Recipients
  • Move Server from one tab to another

VESTRA's Geosystems Monitor enhances GIS uptime and effectiveness by providing intimate real-time knowledge of your Enterprise Geographic Information System and of all of its moving parts necessary to troubleshoot. When the monitor detects an issue, an immediate notification is sent to the GIS/IT Professional via email or text, allowing them to formulate a proactive resolution.

 

]]> <![CDATA[2011 VESTRA Math, Science, and Technology Scholarship Recipients]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/2011-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship-recipients.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/2011-vestra-math-science-and-technology-scholarship-recipients.html#comment Wed May 18 0:00:00 2011  

Through much consideration, the scholarship committee has chosen this year's scholarship award winners. With more applicants than ever before and a wide range of highly qualified individuals, scholarships have been awarded to three intelligent, motivated, and driven individuals. VESTRA has awarded the 2011 VESTRA Math, Science and Technology Scholarship to Ronnel Boettcher, Desirae Costello, and Lachlan Waterbury.
 
Ronnel Boettcher is an Enterprise High School student who will be attending the California Institute of Technology in the fall. His intended major is Physics  with an emphasis in Theoretical Physics or Astrophysics. His passion over the years has been astronomy, and his recent interest in Physics has driven him to choose a field of study that combines both subjects. Ronnel will be receiving an award of $1,500 to further his studies at CalTech.
 
Desirae Costello is a Shasta High School student who will be attending UC Davis in the fall. Her intended major is Animal Biology in pursuit of a career in Veterinary Medicine. She has participated in internships with both VCA Asher and the Bureau of Land Management. Also, she is a graduate of the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science program (COSMOS) at UC Davis, a summer residential program for high achieving math and science students. Desirae will be receiving an award of $1,500 to further her studies in animal science at UC Davis.
 
Lachlan Waterbury is currently attending Shasta College and will be transferring to CSU, Chico, in the fall to continue his studies in GIS-Human Geography with a minor in CIS-Database. Lachlan is currently participating in a work-site learning internship at the Shasta County Road Department. Lachlan will be awarded $1,000 to pursue his studies in GIS at Chico State.


 

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[Update on Breanna Owens' Particpation in CALF Program]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/update-on-breanna-owens-particpation-in-calf-program.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/update-on-breanna-owens-particpation-in-calf-program.html#comment Wed May 4 0:00:00 2011 The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) Program, established in 1970, was designed to prepare and motivate men and women in agriculture for more effective leadership. To accomplish this, the program provides individuals with a leadership development experience through training, personal reflection, and introspection. This includes an extensive curriculum in the areas of economics, government, sociology, education, communications, and fine arts. In addition, participants explore the impacts of these subjects on a national and international scale, visiting various regions of the country and developing nations around the world.
 
The CALF program includes national and international travel seminars, which offer an intense focus on leadership and communication skills, as well as current cultural, educational, political, environmental, historical, and economic issues. Breanna Owens, VESTRA’s Range Specialist, is a member of CALF Class 41. In March, Class 41 visited Washington D.C. and Arizona to meet with members of Congress, their staff, agency staff, and representatives from various lobbying interests to discuss immigration reform and border security. As the class learned in Arizona, these are two very separate issues; however, the two issues are often grouped into one discussion at the national level. During the trip Class 41 was introduced to the direct impacts of both issues, as they relate to the people of Arizona, and was able to discuss the issues on a broad scale.
 
Read more about the CALF program at http://www.agleaders.org/education/history.html.
 
 
]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Wins Opportunity to Support Siskiyou County's Redistricting Process]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-wins-opportunity-to-support-siskiyou-countys-redistricting-process.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/vestra-wins-opportunity-to-support-siskiyou-countys-redistricting-process.html#comment Wed May 4 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA has been contracted to support Siskiyou County’s redistricting process, relying heavily on tools and software available through Esri. The Esri Redistricting tool is a recently released web-based solution that eliminates the need to download and process census data, and includes a suite of tools for defining districts using multiple input parameters. The tool also includes pre-defined charts, reports, and output map capabilities. A notable advantage with this tool is the included ability to publish and share results using ArcGIS Online. This provides a gateway for users (either certain users with permissions or open to the public) to view the map information, allowing greater access and collaboration between individuals involved in the redistricting process.  An additional advantage to the tool is a two stage geography assignment, which allows the user to view the impacts of proposed geography assignment changes prior to committing to an assignment. 
 
Using the Esri Redistricting Online Tool, VESTRA will compile Census 2000, 2010 TIGER, and Public Law (P.L) 94-171 data, including California census data released on March 8, 2011. From this data VESTRA will extract election precincts data related to demographics; this data will drive preparation of the Redistricting Plan. VESTRA will work closely with the Siskiyou County Redistricting Committee to develop a Draft Redistricting Plan, through a series of public workshops and Redistricting Committee meetings. Following review by the Board of Supervisors of the Draft Redistricting Plan, a Final Redistricting Plan will be approved. Based on the Final Redistricting Plan, voting precinct boundaries will be updated. Updated voter locations will be mapped utilizing information from the voter registration system.  
 
Redistricting is the process of drawing new electoral district boundaries in order to equalize district populations. Since the 1960s, redistricting has been done every ten years, soon after the U.S. Census Bureau releases data showing where people reside around the country.  The overall purpose of redistricting is to review districts and where necessary redraw districts in order to address any changes in population concentration.
 
In the 1960s, the U.S. Supreme Court found that decades of maintaining the same districts had led to vast inequalities in district populations.  That is, some districts had very large populations while others had very low populations.  Every ten years, the Census performs a count of all people living in the United States.  The Census tells us where populations are located and how they have changed.  The population can change a great deal in ten years due to people moving, people dying, people being born, etc.  After the Census data is released, we can see how district populations have changed.  We often see that districts that were equal ten years before have become malapportioned due to population changes.  That is, some districts have too many people while others have too few people.  
 
Jurisdictions that use districts for elections must redistrict in order to make the populations in districts equal again and ensure they are complying with “one person, one vote” requirements. Different bodies are responsible for redistricting of different jurisdictions, but often a legislative body is responsible for redrawing its own lines.  In some cases, commissions are formed to draw and adopt a redistricting plan for a jurisdiction. In California counties, the Boards of Supervisors must redraw their own supervisorial district boundaries.  
 
For additional information about VESTRA's services, please visit our Services web page.
 
 

 

 

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Donates to Whiskeytown Environmental School]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-donates-to-whiskeytown-environmental-school.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-donates-to-whiskeytown-environmental-school.html#comment Wed Apr 27 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA contributed to the friends of Whiskeytown Environmental School (W.E.S.) with an unrestricted donation of $2,000 and an additional donation by VESTRA's Culture Club.

Whiskeytown Environmental School, also known as N.E.E.D. camp (National Environmental Education Development), has been educating youth since 1971 and plays a major role in the environmental education, awareness, and appreciation among children. Over the years, W.E.S. has become a tradition in Northern California for elementary and middle schoolchildren to enjoy a weeklong camp increasing their knowledge of environmental science through hands-on activities in an outdoor setting. Since opening in 1971, this educational opportunity has been made possible for more than 70,000 children.

Unfortunately, state and federal budget cuts have decreased revenue for educational programs and it is uncertain if the W.E.S. camp can continue to provide for the children as it has done for more than 40 years. The fall semester has already been cut and now camps are only held in the spring due to the reduced attendance caused by budget cuts the school districts have faced as well. W.E.S. is one of the few of its kind remaining in the country, and it's an important resource to have available for children. The camp is relying on support from the community in the form of donations and fundraisers to remain open. 

VESTRA appreciates the benefits that programs, such as W.E.S., offer our community. If you would like to join us in contributing so that many more children will be able to experience this one-of-a-kind opportunity, please contact W.E.S. at (530) 225-0111 or send your check to:

Whiskeytown Elementary School
Attention: Francesca Huntsman-Siemer
1644 Magnolia Avenue
Redding, CA 96001

 
]]> <![CDATA[Susan Goodwin Completes QSD/QSP Certification]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/susan-goodwin-completes-qsd-qsp-certification.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/vestra-news/susan-goodwin-completes-qsd-qsp-certification.html#comment Fri Apr 22 0:00:00 2011 We are pleased to announce Susan Goodwin, VESTRA’s Registered Professional Engineer, has been certified as a Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP). As a certified QSD/QSP, Susan is able to prepare, write, revise, and implement SWPPP documents under the Construction General Permit.
 
In order for an individual to receive the QSD/QSP certification they must complete a QSD/P course directed by a CASQA-qualified Trainer of Record and pass the QSD/P exam. For more information on the QSD/QSP certification and a full list of steps and requirements, visit www.casqa.org.
 
 
]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Presents at the Far North Regional GIS Council's Knowledge Faire]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/vestra-presents-at-the-far-north-regional-gis-councils-knowledge-faire.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/vestra-presents-at-the-far-north-regional-gis-councils-knowledge-faire.html#comment Fri Apr 22 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA GIS Analyst Solomon Pulapkura, gave a presentation at the Far North Regional GIS Council's Knowledge Faire on Wednesday, April 20, 2011. The presentation highlighted the automated extraction of Telecom Network features from complex Telecom AutoCAD drawings using Python Scripts and implementing ESRI Telecommunications Data Model for a Copper Network.

The demo focused on VESTRA's workflow and geodatabase design solution that was built for the purpose of implementing the ESRI Telecommunications Data Model 9 as part of a Pilot Project for a local telephone company's geographic information system.

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA's GeoSystems Monitor at the Cityworks 2011 User Conference]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/vestras-geosystems-monitor-at-the-cityworks-2011-user-conference.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/vestras-geosystems-monitor-at-the-cityworks-2011-user-conference.html#comment Thu Apr 21 0:00:00 2011 On May 16 -18 VESTRA Resources, Inc. will be hosting a booth at the Cityworks 2011 User Conference in St. George, Utah showcasing the Geosystems Monitor.

VESTRA's Geosystems Monitor enhances GIS uptime and effectiveness by providing intimate real-time knowledge of your Enterprise Geographic Information System and of all of its moving parts necessary to troubleshoot. When the monitor detects an issue, an immediate notification is sent to the GIS/IT Professional via email or text, allowing them to formulate a proactive resolution.

Hope to see you there!

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Particpates in 100-Day Healthier U Lifestyle Challenge]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-particpates-in-100-day-healthier-u-lifestyle-challenge.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-particpates-in-100-day-healthier-u-lifestyle-challenge.html#comment Thu Apr 21 0:00:00 2011 VESTRA employees are supporting each other in fun ways to get or stay healthy – and what a better way than to participate in a community-wide challenge! We’re game…Are you?
 
VESTRA employees have signed up as a team, and so can you! Sign up at http://hulc.shastaregional.com/. Team VESTRA has pledged to walk 30 miles per week (or do equivalent exercise) – that equates to 20 employees walking a ½ mile three days per week. Bring an extra pair of shoes to work with you to walk on your break, go on an evening bike ride with the family, take a stroll in the park, go on a hike, walk your dog, etc. The possibilities are endless, you just have to be motivated and make the effort.
 
What personal pledge will you make?  Lose 10 pounds?  Exercise 5 days per week? Run 10 miles per week? Quit smoking?  Eat healthier? Whatever it is, there is never a better time to pledge than now.
 
The official dates for the 100-Day Healthier U Lifestyle Challenge are March 18-June 25. See what you can do!
 
 
 

 

]]> <![CDATA[ VESTRA Quarterly Blood Drive - Wednesday, April 20th]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-wednesday-april-20th.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-quarterly-blood-drive-wednesday-april-20th.html#comment Tue Apr 19 0:00:00 2011 The VESTRA quarterly blood drive will be held on April 20, 2011, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. If you would like to donate at this location, please schedule your appointment online today at www.bloodheroes.com, code: MVES.

 

 
 
]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Celebrates Earth Week 2011]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-celebrates-earth-week-2011.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/events/vestra-celebrates-earth-week-2011.html#comment Tue Apr 19 0:00:00 2011  

VESTRA is hosting a week long celebration full of environmentally conscience "acts of green" in honor of Earth Day. Some of our activities include: 

 

Monday 4/18 - Friday 4/22 - RE-USE SWAP MEET:

Our Staff is practicing how to re-utilize unused items from around their homes by bringing them to work for out internal swap meet and exchanging the items with other employees who will use them. All items unclaimed by the staff will be donated to the Salvation Army at the end of Friday 4/22.

Monday 4/18 - RECYCLING:

On Monday our employees will learn about all of the different things they can recycle and how to recycle them.

Tuesday 4/19 - ENERGY CONSERVATION:  

At lunch on Tuesday VESTRA employee Kathryn Miller will educate staff on energy conservation by showing a video, Kilowatt Ours: A Plan to Re-Energize America by Jeff Barrie.

Wednesday 4/20 - GARDENING:

 Wednesday afternoon some employees will create VESTRA's own salsa garden!

 Thursday 4/21:

 Staff will be treated to an employee lunch hosted by the GIS division. This lunch will mark our movement from disposable dishes and utensils to eco-friendly, reusable ones.

Friday 4/22 - WATER CONSERVATION:

VESTRA employee Jenn Pollom will sum up the Earth Week festivities with her "DROP IN THE BUCKET" presentation about usable water on earth and water conservation.

 

For more information on Earth Day and what you can do to contribute, visit www.earthday.org

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA Scholarship 2011 - Application Period Now Closed]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-scholarship-2011-application-period-now-closed.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-scholarship-2011-application-period-now-closed.html#comment Mon Apr 18 0:00:00 2011 The application period for the 2011 VESTRA Scholarship Program is now closed. Thank you to all of those who submitted applications. VESTRA’s scholarship committee will soon begin the review process for this year’s scholarship award recipients. Good luck to all of the scholarship applicants.
 
VESTRA encourages continuing education and enjoys seeing individuals aspire to their full potential. If you missed the deadline for this year’s scholarship, remember to check back next spring for the updated application and information.

 

 

 

]]> <![CDATA[VESTRA is proud to Adopt-A-Family 2010]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-is-proud-to-adopt-a-family-2010.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/press-releases/vestra-is-proud-to-adopt-a-family-2010.html#comment Wed Dec 8 0:00:00 2010  
VESTRA Resources, Inc. is proud to once again provide for an Adopt-A-Family. This is a longstanding tradition of VESTRA's and something our employees find great joy in. Meet our family: 

 

FAMILY #2

Mom, Robyn, 38
Dad, David, 40
Daniel, son, 16
Richard, son, 13
Samantha, daughter, 7
 
This family is doing what they can to take care of one another. They recently moved to Redding and the father is looking for a job, while the mother is trying to get the children into school and is looking for housing. Things are new for this family, they are doing what they can to stay together and better their life. But at this time it is hard for them to get ahead. So any help would be grateful. Parents just want the kids to have a great Christmas and do something as a family. They would like to thank you in advance for helping them this holiday season.
 

All gifts (wrapped and clearly marked with Family Member Name and Family Number (e.g. Samantha #2) must be brought into VESTRA no later than Wednesday, December 15th.  

 
 

 

]]> <![CDATA[ESRI Business Partners]]> http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/esri-business-partners.html http://www.vestra.com/blog/gis-community/esri-business-partners.html#comment Mon Aug 2 0:00:00 2010 Webmaster ESRI president Jack Dangermond acknowledged VESTRA Resources, Inc. (partner since 1989) along with 11 other organizations for having been an ESRI business partners for more than 20 years. In a special session for longtime partners, he recognized these companies and their dedication to ESRI and its geographic information system (GIS) technology.

"Our business partners fuel the strength and reach of GIS," said Dangermond. "ESRI values their expertise, insight, and commitment to our users, and we want to acknowledge their tremendous work over the past 20-plus years — we want to thank them for their contributions to ESRI's success."

ESRI's partners represent a global network of organizations that integrate and extend a variety of technologies and solutions for a broad range of industries. They collaborate with ESRI to take GIS solutions into new markets, assist customers with ESRI technology, and strengthen the worldwide GIS user community. In return, partners are able to expand their businesses and deepen their involvement in the GIS market and their relationship with ESRI. (http://www.esri.com/news/releases/10_1qtr/bpc20.html)

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