10/09/2011 Memo to USGP F1 reporters and followers: On Oct.

4, the Austin American-Statesman published a "Construction on F1 track resumes" written by John Maher. In the story, Maher sourced an unnamed "spokesperson for the circuit" and wrote the track "now has vertical permits from the county for the buildings." This is not true, according to county staff I spoke to. On Oct. 5, I called Anna Bowlin, Program Manager, Planning and Engineering, for the Travis County Transportation and Natural Resources (TNR) Department. Bowlin said the Circuit of the Americas is still working on getting its permits. I also followed up with Teresa Calkins, a planning engineer for Travis County TNR, who confirmed Bowlin's information. Following my conversation with county employees, I phoned John Maher to inquire about his unnamed spokesperson source. Maher picked up the phone and, after I introduced myself, hung up. I called back several times and left a message asking him who his source is on that information. I have not heard back from Maher. I also phoned a deputy sports editor, who assured me Maher was at his desk while I tried to call him. The editor also did not return a follow up message seeking clarification on Maher's source. Any interested party who wants to know which permits are awarded, and which are not, can file a Public Records Request sent open.records@co.travis.tx.us. The query should ask for a copy of the most recent "scope of work" documentation related to Formula 1/Circuit of the Americas permit application. Regards, Jacob Dirr