Independent

VOL 3 No. 1

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com .fbindependent.com ww

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2010

P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623

Golden anniversary commemoration A special commemorative art piece was unveiled as part of Sugar Land’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony at the Sugar Land Marriott on Dec. 31.Above, the sculptor Joe Kenney, left, with Prabha Bala, chair of the sculpture subcommittee and Pat Pollicoff, Sugar Land’s Director of Communications who coordinated the 50th anniversary committees. The sculpture committee helped Pollicoff in working closely with the Austin-based artist from concept to inauguration, working for a good part of 2009.

The bronze sculpture includes six panels put together as a hexagon mounted on a mahogany pedestal. Each of the panels in high relief depicts the history and growth of Sugar Land from the Imperial Sugar company town to what it is today. The top of the sculpture shows the city of Sugar Land’s seal. —Photo

by SUNDARESAN BALA. OH, WHAT A NIGHT. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will kick off the New Year with its annual Chairman’s Ball on Saturday, Jan. 16 at 3 Sugar Creek Center in Sugar Land. The event is held each year to celebrate the incoming and outgoing leaders and volunteers of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.

An exciting and surprise-filled evening is planned with cocktails, followed by dinner, fabulous entertainment, awards and recognitions, and music and dancing to the coolest, hippest band around, Vanilla Pop! Consisting of Al Dente and Lester Moore, Vanilla Pop is part Vegas style lounge act, part satire and all fun. Do not miss this incredible night! Tickets are $99.95 per person or $999.95 for a corporate table of ten. Dress is cocktail chic. Las Vegas loungewear, feathers and pink tie are optional. Contact Ellen Bush for reservations: 281-491-0277 or ellen@fortbendcc. org. Rehearsing for the gala are chamber directors Chris Breaux, left, Namita Asthana, Kolbe Curtice and Bridget Yeung.

A spectacular Sugar Cube Drop depicted by a 3D laser show followed by brilliant fireworks hail in the New Year. — Photos by RANDY KOZLOVSKY

Community airs concern over park and ride project

By BARBARA FULENWIDER “Residents are extremely concerned,” said former councilwoman Eunice Reiter about the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s survey of an 84-acre site, south of Missouri City’s Fondren Park neighborhood.

Their concern is about a park and ride and eventually a commuter rail station off of the Sam Houston Tollway and U.S. 90A that would create heavy traffic on their two-lane neighborhood streets.

Reiter, a recently retired city council member who was just elected president of the Fondren

Park Community Improvement Association for the eighth time over some 30 years, said a secondary concern of residents is noise.

Currently there is heavy vegetation along the railroad track and the neighborhood houses which now muffles some of the train noise. She said Metro will have to remove the vegetation if they decide to make an offer on the property they’ve just surveyed and that trains roll down the track every 30 minutes.

At December’s homeowner meeting, Missouri City planning department personnel

“came with some maps and explanations and Councilman Bobby Marshall was there. He emphasized the fact that he was in favor of a park and ride of this nature in Missouri City but not necessarily at this location,” Reiter said.

“The city’s Angelou (Economics) study (done for Missouri City in 2003) projected it (commuter rail station) located west of the Beltway and that’s where it belongs,” Reiter said, “because there’s room there for transit oriented development.

The current proposed location is isolated from any development

because it’s all residential.”

John Haley, Metropolitan Transit Authority vice president, infrastructure and service development, said their survey of the property is done but they have not made an offer to buy it. Right now, he said, his entity is “doing some research on the ownership” and after that “we’ll make a decision over the next few weeks” whether or not to make an offer on it.

“Our objective is to provide better service for Missouri City.

If anybody has another idea we’ll look at it. I have done some conceptual work on vari-

ous alignments and that one (the 84-acre site) is a good location. We wanted some way to validate it, which is why we did the environmental work and preliminary surveying,” Haley said.

“We’ve been in various discussions over the years about rail and park and ride. There probably will be other options in the future. This is one that came to our attention because one thing we looked at is a potential alignment for rail along the 90A corridor and space for a regional station of a significant size. We’re still at the point where we’re vetting the concepts. None of this has gone to the Metro board at this point.”

Scott Elmer, Missouri City director of public works, said, “Metro has hired AIA Engineers to do a traffic impact analysis in conformance with the city’s requirements.” He also said that

Metro officials have said there “would be a Phase 1 of 1,500 parking spaces and conversion in the future to a commuter rail stop with the potential of 3,000 parking spaces.”

He also said, “The city would like to have something that facilitates transit development and wants to encourage having some other uses adjacent to the transit stop. There is more vacant land on the west side that could be used for commercial, so there’s more opportunity there for a mixed use facility with a rail station.”

Currently the project is unfunded, Elmer said “but will be voted on at Metro’s March board meeting.”

He believes Missouri City will be getting more information from Metro regarding the traffic impact study, after that meeting.

Battle lines drawn for party primary elections

By SESHADRI KUMAR A slew of candidates have entered the Republican and Democratic party primaries for various local political offices for which the filing deadline ended on Jan. 4.

While local Republicans have some unforeseen contests, Democrats have fielded candidates to most of the offices.

The notable primary contests in the Republican Party include Precinct 4 Commissioner, District Attorney, County Court-at-Law No.2, Justice of the Peace Pct. 1, Place 2, 268th District Court and Congressional Dist. 14.

Incumbent DA John Hea-

ley faces Nina Schaefer and Richard Raymond.

Incumbent Pct. 4 Commissioner James Patterson faces Steve Smelley.

District Judge Brady Elliott is challenged by Roxie Roll.

The County Court-at-Law No. 2 is an open seat for which Jeff McMeans and Rick Forlano have filed.

CCL Judge No. 3 Susan Lowery has an opponent Larry Thomas, but his filing has not yet been officially confirmed.

JP Pct. 1, Place 2 incumbent Gary Geick is opposed by Mary Ward and Bob Thomas.

Dist. 14 U.S. Rep. Ron Paul has three opponents, Tim

Ganey, Gerald Wall and John Gay. The incumbent county chair of the Republican Party, Rick Miller, has an opponent.

Mike Gibson has also filed for party chair.

For the Republican Party precinct chairs about 100 people have filed for 90 positions.

On the Democratic Party side, incumbent Dist. 27 State Rep. Dora Olivo faces Ron Reynolds.

For county judge, Rodrigo Carreon and Philip Atisedaomo have filed.

For JP, Pct. 1, Place 2, three Democrats, Aurelia Moore, R.J. Blue and Marty Rocca

have filed.

For JP, Pct.2, incumbent Joe Clouser and Tony Sherman have filed.

Incumbent Democratic Party Chair Elaine Bishop is challenged by Stephen Brown.

Democrats have also fielded candidates for other positions, but they are unopposed in the primary.

They are: State Rep. 26 Philip Andrews 240th District Court Fredericka Alllen 268th District Court Albert Hollan CCL Judge No. 1 Milton Flick CCL Judge No.2 Harrison Gregg

Commissioner, Pct. 2 Grady Prestage District Clerk Veronica Torres County Clerk Korinthia Miller County Treasurer K.P. George.

Incumbents in the Republican primary who have filed, but unopposed are: U.S. Rep. Dist. 22 Pete Olson State Rep. Dist. 26 Charlie Howard State Rep. Dist. 28 John Zerwas State Sem. Dist. 17 Joan Huffman State Sen. Dist.18 Glenn Hegar

Introducing the new Back Pain Program at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

You don’t have to live with pain

It’s time to start experiencing relief with a personalized treatment plan from our new comprehensive Back Pain program. Our skilled health team specializes in joint and back pain, offering both minimally invasive surgical techniques and non invasive treatments.

To learn more, call 281.725.5225 or visit SugarLandBackPain.com.

24oth District Judge Thomas Culver 328th District Judge Ron Pope 434th District Judge Jim Shoemake CCL Judge No.1 Bud Childers CCL Judge No.4 Sandy Bielstein County Judge Bob Hebert District Clerk Annie Elliott County Clerk Dianne Wilson County Treasurer Jeff Council.

The party primaries will be held on March 2.

Early voting for the primary will begin on Feb. 16.

VOL 3 No. 1

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com .fbindependent.com ww

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, January 6, 2010

news

P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623

Battle lines drawn for party primary elections

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION. A special commemorative art piece was unveiled as part of Sugar Land’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony at the Sugar Land Marriott on Dec. 31.Above, the sculptor Joe Kenney, left, with Prabha Bala, chair of the sculpture subcommittee and Pat Pollicoff, Sugar Land’s Director of Communications who coordinated the 50th anniversary committees. The sculpture committee helped Pollicoff in working closely with the Austin-based artist from concept to inauguration, working for a good part of 2009.

The bronze sculpture includes six panels put together as a hexagon mounted on a mahogany pedestal. Each of the panels in high relief depicts the history and growth of Sugar Land from the Imperial Sugar company town to what it is today. The top of the sculpture shows the city of Sugar Land’s seal. —Photo by SUNDARESAN BALA.

A spectacular Sugar Cube Drop depicted by a 3D laser show welcomed 2010 and bathed the city hall in kaleidoscopic lights followed by brilliant fireworks to hail in the New Year and a new era for Sugar Land. — Photo by RANDY KOZLOVSKY

By SESHADRI KUMAR A slew of candidates have entered the Republican and Democratic party primaries for various local political offices for which the filing deadline ended on Jan. 4.

While local Republicans have some unforeseen contests, Democrats have fielded candidates to most of the offices.

The notable primary contests in the Republican Party include Precinct 4 Commissioner, District Attorney, County Court-at-Law No.2, Justice of the Peace Pct. 1, Place 2, 268th District Court and Congressional Dist. 14.

Incumbent DA John Healey faces Nina Schaefer and Richard Raymond.

Incumbent Pct. 4 Commissioner James Patterson faces Steve Smelley.

District Judge Brady Elliott is challenged by Roxie Roll.

The County Court-at-Law No. 2 is an open seat for which Jeff McMeans and Rick Forlano have filed.

CCL Judge No. 3 Susan Lowery has an opponent Larry Thomas, but his filing has not yet been officially confirmed.

JP Pct. 1, Place 2 incumbent Gary Geick is opposed by Mary Ward and Bob Thomas.

Dist. 14 U.S. Rep. Ron Paul has three opponents, Tim Ganey, Gerald Wall and John Gay. The incumbent county chair of the Republican Party, Rick Miller, has an opponent. Mike Gibson has also filed for party chair.

For the Republican Party precinct chairs about 100 people have filed for 90 posi-

tions.

On the Democratic Party side, incumbent Dist. 27 State Rep. Dora Olivo faces Ron Reynolds.

For county judge, Rodrigo Carreon and Philip Atisedaomo have filed.

For JP, Pct. 1, Place 2, three Democrats, Aurelia Moore, R.J. Blue and Marty Rocca have filed.

For JP, Pct.2, incumbent Joe Clouser and Tony Sherman have filed.

Incumbent Democratic Party Chair Elaine Bishop is challenged by Stephen Brown.

Democrats have also fielded candidates for other positions, but they are unopposed in the primary.

They are: State Rep. 26 Philip Andrews 240th District Court Fredericka Alllen 268th District Court Albert Hollan CCL Judge No. 1 Milton Flick CCL Judge No.2 Harrison Gregg Commissioner, Pct. 2 Grady Prestage District Clerk Veronica Torres

County Clerk Korinthia Miller County Treasurer K.P. George.

Incumbents in the Republican primary who have filed, but unopposed are: U.S. Rep. Dist. 22 Pete Olson State Rep. Dist. 26 Charlie Howard State Rep. Dist. 28 John Zerwas State Sem. Dist. 17 Joan Huffman State Sen. Dist.18 Glenn Hegar 24oth District Judge Thomas Culver 328th District Judge Ron Pope 434th District Judge Jim Shoemake CCL Judge No.1 Bud Childers CCL Judge No.4 Sandy Bielstein County Judge Bob Hebert District Clerk Annie Elliott County Clerk Dianne Wilson County Treasurer Jeff Council.

The party primaries will be held on March 2.

Early voting for the primary will begin on Feb. 16.

Oh, What a night!

Community airs concern over park and ride project

By BARBARA FULENWIDER “Residents are extremely concerned,” said former councilwoman Eunice Reiter about the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s survey of an 84-acre site, south of Missouri City’s Fondren Park neighborhood.

Their concern is about a park and ride and eventually a commuter rail station off of the Sam Houston Tollway and U.S. 90A that would create heavy traffic on their two-lane neighborhood streets.

Reiter, a recently retired city council member who was just elected president of the Fondren Park Community Improvement Association for the eighth time over some 30 years, said a secondary concern of residents is noise.

Currently there is heavy vegetation along the railroad track and the neighborhood houses which now muffles some of the train noise. She said Metro will have to remove the vegetation if they decide to make an offer on the property they’ve just surveyed and that trains roll down the track every 30 minutes.

At December’s homeowner meeting, Missouri City plan-

ning department personnel “came with some maps and explanations and Councilman Bobby Marshall was there. He emphasized the fact that he was in favor of a park and ride of this nature in Missouri City but not necessarily at this location,” Reiter said.

“The city’s Angelou (Economics) study (done for Missouri City in 2003) projected it (commuter rail station) located west of the Beltway and that’s where it belongs,” Reiter said, “because there’s room there for transit oriented development. The current proposed location is isolated from any development because it’s all residential.”

John Haley, Metropolitan Transit Authority vice president, infrastructure and service development, said their survey of the property is done but they have not made an offer to buy it. Right now, he said, his entity is “doing some research on the ownership” and after that “we’ll make a decision over the next few weeks” whether or not to make an offer on it.

“Our objective is to provide better service for Missouri City. If anybody has another

idea we’ll look at it. I have done some conceptual work on various alignments and that one (the 84-acre site) is a good location. We wanted some way to validate it, which is why we did the environmental work and preliminary surveying,” Haley said.

“We’ve been in various discussions over the years about rail and park and ride. There probably will be other options in the future. This is one that came to our attention because one thing we looked at is a potential alignment for rail along the 90A corridor and space for a regional station of a significant size. We’re still at the point where we’re vetting the concepts. None of this has gone to the Metro board at this point.”

The Metro board’s next meeting is in March.

“This location has our attention because it works for rail service – it’s a way to get rail service out there -- what might be doable in the short term, meaning the next three to five years. So we looked at that site as something that appears to be viable.”

Reiter said the city requested

that Metro officials meet with Fondren Park residents but so far that hasn’t happened.

Scott Elmer, Missouri City director of public works, said, “Metro has hired AIA Engineers to do a traffic impact analysis in conformance with the city’s requirements.” He also said that Metro officials have said there “would be a Phase 1 of 1,500 parking spaces and conversion in the future to a commuter rail stop with the potential of 3,000 parking spaces.” He also said, “The city would like to have something that facilitates transit development and wants to encourage having some other uses adjacent to the transit stop. There is more vacant land on the west side that could be used for commercial, so there’s more opportunity there for a mixed use facility with a rail station.”

Currently the project is unfunded, Elmer said “but will be voted on at Metro’s March board meeting.”

He believes Missouri City will be getting more information from Metro regarding the traffic impact study, after that meeting.

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will kick off the New Year with its annual Chairman’s Ball on Saturday, Jan. 16 at 3 Sugar Creek Center in Sugar Land. The event is held each year to celebrate the incoming and outgoing leaders and volunteers of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. An exciting and surprise-filled evening is planned with cocktails, followed by dinner, fabulous entertainment, awards and recognitions, and music and dancing to the coolest, hippest band around, Vanilla Pop! Consisting of Al Dente and Lester Moore, Vanilla Pop is part Vegas style lounge act, part satire and all fun. Do not miss this incredible night! Tickets are $99.95 per person or $999.95 for a corporate table of ten. Dress is cocktail chic. Las Vegas loungewear, feathers and pink tie are optional. Contact Ellen Bush for reservations: 281-4910277 or ellen@fortbendcc.org. Rehearsing for the gala are chamber directors Chris Breaux, left, Namita Asthana, Kolbe Curtice and Bridget Yeung.

Introducing the new Back Pain Program at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

You don’t have to live with pain

It’s time to start experiencing relief with a personalized treatment plan from our new comprehensive Back Pain program. Our skilled health team specializes in joint and back pain, offering both minimally invasive surgical techniques and non invasive treatments.

To learn more, call 281.725.5225 or visit SugarLandBackPain.com.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2010

No summary judgment in golf course case

By BARBARA FULENWIDER County Court at Law No. 4 Judge Sandy Bielstein has denied Missouri City’s request for a partial summary judgment regarding the taking of the Quail Valley Country Club (QVCC) property in June 2008.

People and entities request such because it saves major money if the parties in a lawsuit don’t have to go to trial.

Trouble is most of the time requests for partial summary judgments are denied. If the judge had made a decision on the legality of the taking by the city then the only question left would have been determining fair market value.

Bielstein, in his order dated Dec. 14, said, “Having considered the motion and response, the argument of counsel, and the applicable authorities, the court is of the opinion that the motion should be denied.�

Lawyers for the defendants Quail Valley Country Club, L.P., and Plainfield Specialty Holdings II, Inc., argued that “secret meetings, self dealing, abuses of power� are what “this eminent domain pro-

ceeding entails� and that it is “government at its worst.�

Specifically, the defendants say that the “city’s actions in taking the property were arbitrary, capricious and fraudulent.�

They claim that Mayor (Allen) Owen sabotaged QVCC’s “deal with The Quail Valley Fund.� The defendants claim the fund’s letters of intent “provided for a maximum purchase price of $10.75 million� and that “an agreement to finalize the sale of the country club appeared imminent.�

The defendants’ response to the city’s request for a partial summary judgment says Owen, in an effort to stop any potential redevelopment of the county club, sabotaged the deal by starting the condemnation process so the fund wouldn’t be buying QVCC for two to three times more than what some felt it was worth.

Defendants in their arguments against granting a partial summary judgment said the city did not have a plan for all 400 acres, noted that four council members live in

Quail Valley and that two did not file conflict-of-interest affidavits prior to voting on the decision to take the property.

In reply, Missouri City filed a response to the defendants’ response saying their arguments have no merit. As of now the jury trial is set for Jan. 26.

In other happenings, Inwood Forest residents, who had a suit against Inwood Forest Partners (IFP), got good news last month when a jury found in their favor.

Inwood Forest residents faced the same problem as Missouri City did – having a failing golf course in their midst that the owners wanted to sell for redevelopment.

The jury voted positively on three questions including the reimbursement of legal fees to the attorneys for the Inwood Forest Community Improvement Association.

The defendants were represented by J. Mark Breeding with Andrews Kurth LLP, the same law firm and attorney representing QVCC and Plainfield Specialty Holdings II, Inc.

Scouts show caring during the holidays For the children who won’t have Christmas because their parents can’t afford to buy them presents, the elderly who are shut in, the soldiers that cannot get home for the holidays, and fireman that have to work on Christmas... it may not have been a festive holiday without Girl Scouts.

Girl Scouts have huge hearts and are always ready to pitch in and help those in need. There are many ways to spend the holiday season.

Girl Scouts from Rainbow Star Service Unit decided to put smiles on several people’s faces during the holiday season.

Girl Scout Troop 28104 in an effort to bring some of the comforts of home to our military men and women serving in the War on Terrorism, made care packages for soldiers in Afghanistan during their holiday party. Girl Scout Troops 721, 724 and 277 made holiday placemats from old holiday cards for the senior citizens at Silverado Senior Center to brighten up their holiday tables during this season. Brownie Troop 28083

Troop 28083 with their ornaments reused materials destined for goodies and dropped them off the landfill (tissue paper and at Fire Station #1 to help the plastic bottle lids) to create a fireman who had to work on large assortment of unbreak- Christmas Day celebrate the able ornaments for the tree holidays. They even dropped at the Club in New Territory. off some Girl Scout cookies Some of the girls from Troop to go along with the trays.

721, like Megan Whitworth, Girl Scout cookies will be on worked at Gifts of Love, sale soon - so look for them.

Scouts of San Jacinto and sponsored by Parkway United Methodist Church and Second the Rainbow Stars Service Unit serve nearly 700 regisMile Mission.

During this experience, tered girls and adults in New Megan was able to use her Territory- Sugar Land, Texas. newly learned Spanish to help Girl Scouts is a United Way the kids shop for a present Agency. To join in Girl Scoutfor their parents. Girls from ing in New Territory, contact Troop 721 and 724 made Lisa Rickert at lisa@rickert. two large platters of holiday com.

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Building homes of quality and distinction for over 40 years.

Plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (10/08)

JANUARY 6, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

Community news Show Me City’s proud showing in 2009 The Show Me City, Missouri City, continued to build on its past successes this year, stacking up more achievements, strengthening the budget, standing proud with citizens and steering a course toward an even stronger future.

“Missouri City has a legacy of strength and success,” said Mayor Allen Owen. “This year was no exception.”

The following achievements allowed the area to continue to stand out and shine: BEST BUDGET. For the 21st year in a row, the Finance Department earned a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for fiscal responsibility and sound financial management.

TOP COPS. The Missouri City Police Department joined an elite group of 18 police forces across the State to attain “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” status in Texas. The Department was evaluated on 161 Best Practices standards to achieve this prestigious award.

SAFETY FIRST. For the second year, Congressional Quarterly recognized Missouri City as one of the safest in America. The City ranked as the eighth safest in Texas and in the top 100 in the United States.

PRISTINE PARKS. The Houston-Galveston Area Council of Governments recognized two parks in their Natural Area Awards program: the Hunter’s Glen sprayground funded by the Blue Ridge West Municipal Utility District and Buffalo Run Park, which emerged from a water detention project to a beautiful 95acre City park.

PERFECT PUTT. Ten months and an inaugural tee time later, the El Dorado Golf Course is back! The course is the dynamic design of Golf Architect Jeff Blume, who oversaw workers moving 200,000 cubic tons of dirt, installing a complete irrigation system, building 78 sand traps and five different tee boxes and the shaping of 18 Greens. The result: An exciting El Dorado.

PREMIER PREMIUMS. After meeting the high prevention standards of the National Flood Insurance Program, Missouri City received a “very good” Community Rating System Score of 7, placing residents in a strong position to secure lower flood insurance premiums.

GOOD CENTS… The economic turbulence hitting the nation hit home here, but fortunately it was not nearly as jolting for Missouri City. The following actions helped the City maintain its stability: FISCAL FITNESS. Ever mindful of using tax dollars to provide excellent customer service to citizens, City officials

A golfer is in the swing at the exciting El Dorado Golf Course. streamlined the 2010 budget to reduce spending by almost 5 percent from the previous year and to maintain stability. The blueprint also includes a $950,000 fund for contingencies.

TAX TIME. To generate the same amount of revenue from existing property as last year, City Council adopted a tax rate of 52.84 cents per $100 valuation that cut spending for maintenance and operations and devoted more tax revenue to voter-approved capital improvement projects to take advantage of the current low construction costs and interest rates. The tax-rate change was necessary because the City’s total taxable value last year for both residential and commercial property was almost flat. Coupled with strong fiscal management, the decision allows the City to maintain its AA credit rating while tightening its spending belt and to assure the continuation of quality City services.

“It is never easy to increase taxes without showing the citizens why it is necessary. Taking care of an aging infrastructure, continuing to put Public Safety at the very top of our priorities, and yet tighten our belts in other areas, was our goal,” Mayor Owen said.

PLANNING. The updated Comprehensive Plan and Trails Master Plan both were approved

by City Council, following extensive citizen involvement. The comprehensive plan sets the foundation of what the city will look like in the next 20 years and beyond, with the plan being updated every five years. A citizen survey this past fall validated the Plan’s primary points, elements and direction. Survey respondents rated the top three most important quality of life factors to be: focus on crime prevention and security, limitations on the amount of rental housing, and community beautification.

FUN. Annual traditions were honored again this year in the Show Me City. Funtastic celebrations that brought City officials and citizens together were the

Dad and Daughter dance, the 21st annual Bunny Hop, the 25th annual July 4th celebration, National Night Out, Boo in the Run and Snowfest.

WHAT’S NEW. The City also ushered in new property and programs. The recreational options available to residents will expand with the purchase last November of eight acres of land at the site of the former Quail Valley Tennis and Fitness Center.

In January, the City will receive statements of qualifications from interested firms to renovate or construct a new facility there that will serve the entire community’s fitness, leisure and recreation needs. Firms also will be submitting qualifications to replace the current Quail Valley Golf clubhouse and add a community center.

A mid-year partnership took shape with 19 municipal utility districts in City limits and in the City’s extraterritorial jurisdiction agreeing to participate with Missouri City in a state-mandated groundwater reduction program.

Because of subsidence in the region, by 2025 these jurisdictions must reduce the groundwater they pump by 60 percent. Design of the $58 million surface water treatment facility is complete and bids go out for construction early in 2010. This cost-effective partnership minimizes the infrastructure that otherwise would be needed. This will ensure Missouri City water users have competitively lower water rates.

And another important bridge of communication was established with residents through the initiation of City-sponsored Homeowner’s Association meetings. The meetings have been a successful forum for staff, officials and HOA board members to discuss issues and share ideas.

NEW BUSINESS. Though the U.S. Economy was dealt a bust, our bottom line was balanced by a business boom, supported by national and international companies opening their doors here: Lowe’s opened a new store, building on the strong re-

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tail corridor along Highway 6.

Lufkin Automation signed as the first tenant for the new Lakeview Business Park, with several more on the horizon; Global Geophysical opened its corporate headquarters on Gessner Road; and business flourished in the commercial corridor in the northern part of the City. Additionally, Councilmembers approved a resolution in May to establish the nonprofit Missouri City Recreation and Leisure Local Government Corporation, which helps the City acquire, improve, maintain and operate parks and recreation facilities, including the Quail Valley Golf Course.

GOING GREEN. The City also continued to enhance the quality-of-life for residents with these efforts: Partnering with CenterPoint in January to plant more than 30 power line-friendly trees in Ridgeview Park; planting more than 200 trees donated by the Apache Foundation at Independence and Sta-Mo Parks to control erosion and flooding and provide a habitat for wildlife; designing a plan to transform the Texas Parkway/Cartwright Road Corridor into safe, navigable “green areas” complete with sidewalks and landscaping and additional features in the future; and upgrading and maintaining its many parks and recreation areas through a continuation of the Mulch Madness and Junior Arborist volunteer programs and through Spring Clean-up, Arbor Day and Earth Week programs.

The City also built the state-ofthe-art sprayground at Hunter’s Glen Park that uses an efficient recycled water system for irrigation; a similar process is used at the Quail Valley Golf Course.

THE FUTURE. Overall, 2009 was a good year for Missouri City. “There were so many positive things that happened in 2009

for our City,” Mayor Owen said.

And the City has great expectations for 2010, he added: “We are on the edge of being an even greater place to live, work, and play. We begin 2010 with new prospects of large companies relocating to our City, which will bring new employment opportunities as well as other development around those projects. Eco-

nomics will control the pace of growth in 2010. We are confident that we are working with companies and retail establishments that are somewhat less impacted by the economy. Housing starts in our newer subdivisions seem to be on pace at a rate better than other areas of the country. This is key to future retail development.”

Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!

Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com SUGAR LAND/COMMON- Suzette Peoples WEALTH. Over 4000sqft! 5 ABR, GRI , E-Pro, bedrooms 3.5 baths, game 21 years Professional room, study/formal and extra Realtor; Owner of room. Seller has updated Peoples Properties, a carpet, tile granite counters, Real Estate & Property Management Co.; & more in 2009. Roof replaced American Business too. Big yard. Price reduced Women’s Association. to go $300’s.

ED UC D RE

NEW LISTING

SUGAR LAND REDUCED

SUGAR CREEK Great 1 story on huge corner lot. 3 bedFIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND! Popular 1 rooms & study. Seller has updated carpet, tile paint story Emerald plan! Huge over size lot! 3 in and out and roof replaced. Shows great and price bedrooms and study! Huge island kitchen. already reduced to go fast in the low $200’s.

Beautiful open plan! Great location and low FIRST COLONY taxes. Priced to go fast at $215,000.

D CE

SUGAR LAND

DU

RE LD

SO

CITY OF SUGAR LAND ETJ! PERRY 2 story with master down and gameroom up. Huge cul de sac lot! Built in 2003. Tile and wood laminate floors thru out. 3 car dettached garage! Priced to go at $190,000.

First Colony/Sugar Land! Over 3100 sqft 4 bedrooms 3 full baths. Bedroom/bath down. Game room up. All new interior/exterior paint 2009! New carpet and tile 2009!

Reduced to go in the $200’s and $5,000 in closing costs.

Seller spent over $32K getting house ready to sell.

Mortgage Banker can do loans in less than 30 days!

Call Suzette or email: Speoplesrealtor@aol.com

Wharton County Junior College is GOING GREEN with its

continuing education schedule booklet.

Beginning this spring, the course booklet will no longer be mass mailed to homes.

It will be posted on the college’s webpage at wcjc.edu.

We have a program for everyone!

Enhance your skills. Receive a certification. Take a class for fun.

Business and industry can also benefit from our customized employee training programs.

Start Smart in the new year with a Continuing Education course at WCJC!

Learn more about of an array of courses, including but not limited to: • Child Development • Office Training • Concealed Handgun • Personal Enrichment • College Course Preparation • Professional Development • Computer Technology • Programs for Senior Citizens • Emergency Medical Services • Small Business Development • Fitness • Test Preparation • Healthcare Professions • Tax Preparation • Motorcycle Safety AFFORDABLE & CONVENIENT SHORT TERM TRAINING ONLINE or CLASSROOM TRAINING LEISURE LEARNING • CAREER DEVELOPMENT • CUSTOMIZED CORPORATE TRAINING

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1-800-561-WCJC (9252) • wcjc.edu WCJC is an E.O.E. institution.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2010

Opinion The View From Sugar Land

Texas Straight Talk

New year dawns in Town Square

Keynesianism delivers a decade of zero

be found in other candidates.

Fiorina seems to have her head screwed on straight, recently promising that “my top priority will be bringing fiscal responsibility back to Washington, creating jobs, reigning in government spending and reducing our national debt.”

Her opponent in the Republican primary is state assemblyman Chuck DeVore, who has won the support of a number of traditional conservatives. Not surprisingly, DeVore’s chief criticism of Fiorina is that she is not “conservative enough,” meaning, of course, that she does not convincingly tow the social conservative line on the party’s litmus test issues. Historically, Republicans in California have needed the right end of the political spectrum, which comprises a major part of the party’s base, in order to achieve general election victories.

A Rasmussen poll in November had Fiorina trailing Boxer 46% to 37% with DeVore having only a slightly worse deficit. DeVore’s strategy of emphasizing his conservative bona fides may get him elected in the Republican primary in June, but it is probably not what is needed to defeat Boxer. If any candidate is able to successfully take on Boxer, it will have to be one with national recognition and a reputation that will appeal to independents as well as Republicans.

Jones is the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Sugar Land and serves as Councilman for District 3. He was first elected to the City Council in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.

By RUSSELL C. JONES The City celebrated with the rest of the world last Thursday night when it said goodbye to 2009 and welcomed in the new year. Sugar Landers gathered by the thousands in Town Square, doing double duty by celebrating the city’s 50th anniversary of its incorporation as well as the arrival of 2010. An outstanding laser light show played upon City Hall and the other buildings around the square, leaving impressions variously of the City Hall collapsing, rebuilding itself, opening and shutting its windows, and being invaded by dancing figures.

In the square itself roamed dinosaurs, a living fountain and about 7,000 people celebrating in the cold night air. Packed into the adjacent restaurants were hundreds of revelers who were happy to stay near home to celebrate.

Fireworks riveted the crowd twice, once early in the evening when the kids were still around, and again shortly after a giant sugar cube traced its way down the front of City Hall to announce the stroke of midnight.

The events capped off a year-long tribute to the city’s anniversary.

The proximity of the anniversary date of December 30 to the end of the decade was enough of an excuse to combine both recognitions. With private donations paying for both the celebrations and a multi-sided bronze depicting the history of the city unveiled early in the evening, Sugar Land once again revealed itself to be family-friendly and a great place to live.

This column recently bemoaned the fact that economic conservatives have difficulty getting past party primaries and to the general election, with the result that too often the only choices available to voters are social conservatives and big government liberals.

The California race for the U.S. Senate next year when Barbara Boxer will be up for reelection may be another example of how this dilemma plays out.

The economic conservative with convincing credentials in the race for the Republican nomination is former HewlettPackard chief executive officer Carly Fiorina. While there are those who are shunning Fiorina as the “establishment candidate,” it is exciting when business people with private sector experience in dealing with the issues of taxation, regulation, employment, competition and capitalism take the risk of exposing themselves to the brutal glare of political light. Candidates like Fiorina offer an expertise that cannot

Letter

New ideas, fresh path needed

To the Editor: Despite the current bleak economic conditions, many Missouri City residents like myself see a bright future for our City. Needless to say, that future doesn’t include following the deficient leadership and stale ideas of the current city council. We need fresh ideas, a new path, creativity and innovation from our City Council Members to lead this City.

Our current council members would have city residents believe that their future revolves around the development of the Quail Valley Golf Course. This direction is not only ill-advised but plainly lacks foresight and a careful study of the situation.

Missouri City is not a recreational hot spot by any stretch of the imagination and the benefits and positive aspects of life in Missouri City have nothing to do with its sports opportunities.

The Quail Valley Golf Course has never been a money maker due to the course layout, access, and the competitive market.

By continuing to focus on and invest money into the Golf Course, the city leaders foster (an expensive) hope and illusion that will never materialize.

The city will never golf its way to being a better community and to tie the City’s future to golf’s uncertain prospects is misguided and foolish. Moreover, there are better, citizen supported ways

Jones

Boxer’s Challengers

to ensure that Missouri City recaptures its status as one of the country’s best communities to live in.

In a recent poll, city residents graded public safety as their top priority. Recently, the city was rated as one of America’s safer communities and this should be touted and advertised in all city press releases and fostered by aggressive city council action.

Unfortunately, the city council didn’t get this message. It is a significant tribute to our police department that both the Sugar Land and Stafford police departments operate at much higher sworn personnel to population ratios than Missouri City. Stafford’s ratio is actually twice that of Missouri City’s and Sugar Land has 146 sworn offiicers versus Missouri City’s 79 sworn officers.

So, why hasn’t the Missouri City Council acted upon this knowledge and ensured that we will continue to have a safe community and why hasn’t the city council committed appropriate amounts of city funds to this effort?

Please examine City Council minutes for the past year.

Apparently, golf is a higher priority for our present city council members. Crime is increasing in Missouri City and we need Council Members who not only recognize that crime is an issue but take positive and substantial steps to foster public safety.

In recent conversations with friends from other cities in the

10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487

281-980-6745 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com Email: Editor@fbindependent.com

U.S., I found that Missouri City is light years behind other cities in terms of its internet access, telephone provider access, and cable access. These technology upgrades could have a significant impact on Missouri City’s future. Access to information is vital to our children’s educational development and to the careers and futures of Missouri City’s residents.

Missouri City’s neighborhoods could be on the cutting edge of communication access but they aren’t.

Technology innovations have been ignored by the city council in favor of the same cable and other contracts. With a few million dollars that was spent on the Golf Course, the City could easily revolutionize the City’s technology and infrastructure. But, we need innovative, fresh thinkers for these type of changes.

Beautification of the community was another significant priority for the City according to the citizen poll. This beautification could certainly be a city government initiative, our streets and the trees and landscaping that surround them are controlled, taken care of and owned by the city. The city recently committed a token $150,000 to improve the Texas Parkway corridor. Are we supposed to applaud when the city has spent over $7 million to put new fairways on the QVGC? The 98 percent of City residents who don’t live on the fairways of QVGC would very much appreciate Council Members voting for substantial measures to beautify our streets, medians and parks.

Many Missouri City residents have a vision of the city with well landscaped roadways with trees and beautiful median strips but that will never happen with city council priorities as they are now.

Howard Moline Missouri City

By RON PAUL This past week we celebrated the end of what most people agree was a decade best forgotten. New York Times columnist and leading Keynesian economist Paul Krugman called it the Big Zero in a recent column. He wrote that “there was a whole lot of nothing going on in measures of economic progress or success” which is true.

However, Krugman continues to misleadingly blame the free market and supposed lack of regulation for the economic chaos.

It was encouraging that he admitted that blowing economic bubbles is a mistake, especially considering he himself advocated creating a housing bubble as a way to alleviate the hangover from the dotcom bust. But we can no longer afford to give prominent economists like Krugman a pass when they completely ignore the burden of taxation, monetary policy, and excessive regulation.

Afterall, Krugman is still scratching his head as to why “no” economists saw the housing bust coming. How in the world did they miss it?

Actually many economists saw it coming a mile away, understood it perfectly, and explained it many times. Policy makers would have been wise to heed the warnings of the Austrian economists, and must start listening to their teachings if they want solid progress in the future. If not, the necessary correction is going to take a very long time.

The Austrian free-market economists use common sense principles. You cannot spend your way out of a recession.

U.S. Rep. Ron Paul You cannot regulate the economy into oblivion and expect it to function. You cannot tax people and businesses to the point of near slavery and expect them to keep producing.

You cannot create an abundance of money out of thin air without making all that paper worthless.

The government cannot make up for rising unemployment by just hiring all the out of work people to be bureaucrats or send them unemployment checks forever.

You cannot live beyond your means indefinitely. The economy must actually produce something others are willing to buy. Government growth is the opposite of all these things.

Bureaucrats are loathe to face these unpleasant, but obvious realities. It is much more appealing to wave their magic wand of regulation and public spending and divert blame elsewhere. It is time to be honest about our problems.

The tragic reality is that this fatally flawed, but widely accepted, economic school of thought called Keynesian-

ism has made our country more socialist than capitalist.

While the private sector in the last ten years has experienced a roller coaster of booms and busts and ended up, nominally, about where we started in 2000, government has been steadily growing, because Keynesians told politicians they could get away with a tax, spend and inflate policy.

They even encouraged it! But we cannot survive much longer if government is our only growth industry.

As for a lack of regulation, the last decade saw the enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the largest piece of financial regulatory legislation in years. This act failed to prevent abuses like those perpetrated by Bernie Madoff, and it is widely acknowledged that the new regulations contributed heavily not only to the lack of real growth, but also to many businesses going overseas.

Americans have been working hard, and Krugman rightly points out that they are getting nowhere.

Government is expanding steadily and keeping us at less than zero growth when inflation is factored in. Krugman seems pretty disappointed with zero, but if we continue to listen to Keynesians in the next decade instead of those who tell us the truth, zero will start to look pretty good.

The end result of destroying the currency is the wiping out of the middle class. Preventing that from happening should be our top economic priority.

(Ron Paul represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas.)

Kick the habit, quit smoking

By THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. When recovering from an injury or surgical procedure, patients want to return to normal as quickly as possible.

Some factors that change the speed of healing are beyond one’s control, such as genetics or general health at the time of the injury or surgery.

However, other factors are completely within your control, including nutrition, following your rehabilitation program, and smoking.

Healing and good blood supply are inseparable.

The tissues of your body need the oxygen and other nutrients provided through your circulatory system to live. In addition, platelets in the blood help stop bleeding and promote early healing of damaged tissues.

Wounds and injuries also need a good supply of white blood cells to fight infection.

Smokers or individuals who live with second-hand smoke are at an increased risk of developing wound infections, even for very simple wounds.

Worse, if an infection arises due in part to poor circulation, antibiotics needed to fight that infection may not be able to get to the damaged tissue.

There is no way to do surgery without making incisions through the blood vessels at the surgical site.

Surgeons try to be as careful as we can, and we also rely on surrounding blood vessels to provide a ‘little extra’ to the area to make up for the ones we have to cut.

This means that the other blood vessels need to be in good condition.

Cigarette smoke contains over 4000 chemicals, including 50 chemicals known to cause various types of cancer.

The major ‘bad actors’ with respect to wound healing are nicotine and carbon monoxide.

Parr Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing the ability to get oxygen, infection fighting agents, and nutrients to the body.

Carbon monoxide binds irreversibly to hemoglobin in blood cells, permanently preventing that molecule from exchanging carbon dioxide for oxygen in the lungs.

This further limits the amount of oxygen that can get to the body.

Since the average red blood cell survives for 120 days, the negative effects from just a single cigarette can last for four months!

To consider one specific example, inadequate blood supply and limited oxygen carrying capability can make it hard for the skin around the wound to heal.

The longer the skin takes to heal, the higher the risk of bacterial contamination of the tissues under the wound.

Delayed wound healing can lead to really ugly, permanent scars.

Damaged muscle tissue will be similarly affected, and bacteria love to find an area of dead muscle and move in.

Keep in mind, too, that it doesn’t matter how nicotine enters your body.

Nicotine, whether it is supplied by smoking, nicotine patches, nicotine gum, or chewing tobacco, seriously affects your body’s ability to

recover from an injury, a surgery, or an illness.

If you are planning any kind of surgery, your chances of having a good outcome will increase substantially if you avoid all nicotine for at least a month in advance and continue to avoid all nicotine for at least another month to six weeks after your operation.

This includes avoiding second-hand smoke created by others in the household.

Long-time smokers may find this to be an intimidating challenge, but the immediate benefits in recovery time will make the effort worthwhile.

As an added bonus, if you can avoid smoking for that long, then you know you can kick the habit permanently!

For more information to help you or a loved one ‘kick the habit,’ visit www.whyquit. com and www.quit-smoking.

Dr. Thomas Parr, an orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land, can be reached at 281-4917111. Dr. Parr and his wife, Joannie, have been a team for well over 40 years and she has contributed to this article.

Visit www.tomparrmd.net for more information.

FBRC inaugural recognition luncheon Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. will hold their Inaugural Recognition Luncheon honoring Helen Cordes with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The event will take place on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010 at Safari Texas Ranch. Sponsorships are available and range from $5,000 to $1,000. Individual tickets are $80. Sponsorship levels and forms are available online at www.fortbendcouncil.org or by contacting Laura Richard, FBRC Development Director at 281-433-3363.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2010 • Page 5

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2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Silver 207374 Classic Chevrolet 33,740 miles 877-351-3803 $29,988

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2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT White 8G199806 Classic Chevrolet 25,869 miles 877351-3803 $47,977

2009 Chevrolet Impala LT Black 119477 Classic Chevrolet 29,522 miles 877-3513803 $15,588

2008 Toyota Avalon 4Dr Silver 290811 Classic Chevrolet 35,169 miles 877-351-3803 $19,988

2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988

2006 Acura TL Black Pearl 4-dr 6 cyl. 047858 Classic Chevrolet 62,077 miles 877351-3803 $20,488

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2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT1 Red 240258 Classic Chevrolet 28,224 miles 877-351-3803 $17,988

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2010 Chevrolet Camaro Red 2-dr Coupe A9133261 Classic Chevrolet 3,943 miles 877-351-3803 $37,900

2005 Chevrolet SSR LS Truck Silver 119812 Classic Chevrolet 42,432 miles 877351-3803 $24,988

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Silver 119195 Classic Chevrolet 29,405 miles 877-351-3803 $24,988

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2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Red V-8 299232 Classic Chevrolet 102,428 miles 877-351-3803 $10,688

2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988

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Community Calendar Meeting on parks Sugar Land hosts

Bargain Book Sale Friends of First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway at Grants Lake, Sugar Land, will hold their monthly bargain book sale Sat. Jan. 9, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Good condition only. Books, CD’s, DVD’s (no magazines or encyclopedias) may be donated during regular library hours and are tax deductible.

Children’s items are especially needed. Call 281-416-0936.

Genealogy meeting The Fort Bend Genealogical Society will meet on Saturday, Jan. 9 at 10 a.m.

The meeting will be held in the Genealogy Room at the George Memorial Library, located at 1000 Golfview Drive, in Richmond. Ms. Emily Croom will be hosting a Question and Answer session. Croom is a nationally noted genealogy lecturer and author. Anyone interested in genealogy is invited to attend.

For more information, contact Frances at 281-762-8029.

U.S. Rep. Pete Olson U.S. Rep. Pete Olson, (RSugar Land) will speak at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Governmental Relations Meeting on Monday, Jan. 11, at 445 Commerce Green Boulevard, Sugar Land from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Hear Olson’s New Year’s resolutions and his goals and visions for 2010. How does he plan to work with his Congressional peers to move this country forward and serve the interests of Texas’ 22nd congressional district? Olson will outline his priorities and objectives for the New Year and answer any questions you might have.

Make reservations on-line at www.FortBendChamber. com or email Ellen Bush at ellen@fortbendcc.org or call 281-491-0277. Tickets are $15 for Chamber members and $25 for prospective members.

Back and joint pain symposium Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital will host a free Back and Joint Pain Symposium on Saturday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. until noon in Conference Rooms A-C at the hospital. This educational and interactive symposium features leading Houston orthopedists and pain management specialists addressing joint and back pain symptoms, causes, treatment options and recovery. Presentations also will cover the importance of prevention and highlight treatment options ranging from therapy to breakthroughs in minimally invasive surgery. Symposium attendees will have the chance to register to win great door prizes.

The event is free, but reservations are required. To reserve your space, call 281-725-5225. Featured physicians include Mohammed Etminan, M.D., Michael Kent, M.D., and Ioannis Skaribas, M.D.

DAR Meeting The Fort Bend Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will meet Wednesday, Jan. 13, at 10 a.m. in Wesley Hall of the Sugar Land United Methodist Church.

Our Speaker’s topic is “Nutrition for Women.” There will also be a display of handcrafted items. Members and prospective members are invited to attend. Call Kyleen at 281499-3007 for more details.

Spirit of Freedom Republican Women The Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s PAC will hold its first annual meeting, on Jan. 15, 11 a.m. at Spring Creek Barbecue, 4895 Highway 6, Missouri City, Texas.

(Dulles and Highway 6).

Lunch at your expense. The program features a candidate’s

forum with Fort Bend County District Attorney’s race and begins at 11:30 a.m. A brief club meeting will follow. Membership dues collected. For more information contact Tina Gibson at 281-491-6599.

Acting Classes Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre launches their Winter Acting classes for ages eight through eighteen. Classes will be held on Saturday mornings beginning Jan. 16, and ending March 6, 2010 at 2815 N. Main, Stafford. Each session teaches stage acting techniques, including pantomime, improvisation, vocalizations, and characterization and culminates with a performance for family and friends. The cost is $200, payable by a $50 non-refundable deposit. For more information visit www. fortbendtheatre.com, or call 281-208-3333 to register.

Get involved in local politics To the Editor: Every year we go through this. First we close out the old year with the obligatory reflection and then look ahead with hope for the new.

How often have we looked back and found that little has changed locally, especially in the political realm.

Last years local and national recession appears to be continuing unabated as we look at an unemployment rate in the county of about 8.5 percent, well up from the 5.5 percent of a year ago.

Naturally many of our local political leaders won’t emphasize these negatives or the facts that our ad valorem (property taxes) increased in this down economy on average by almost 11 percent making us one of the most highly

Free seminars

taxed counties in the U.S., according to the tax foundation, and the leader in Texas for this not so coveted crown, nor will they mention the huge jump in home foreclosures countywide or increasing crime.

During recent yearly reviews, by organizations like the Fort Bend County Economic Development Council and many of their backed politicians, all we seem to be reading is how bright and “rosy” everything is.

I guess we shouldn’t bother to look more closely at some of these issues as we move into a bright and “rosy” new year.

If we did we might start asking questions and looking at connections as well as projects that won’t help many of the issues that impact our quality of life here in Fort Bend, such

as the unsustainable development of high density housing (apartments) and low end repeat commercial and industrial development all financed with our taxes and bond debt as older areas empty out.

So rather than bleeding more facts about challenges we must face in our community and the importance of independent elected officials that focus on those already living here, I think it is better to wish everyone the best and urge them to get involved as more local elections are approaching on March 2 and again in May. Turn-out has been traditionally low, but there is always hope and that is one commodity that is usually free (not always though).

Presentation of findings and park development options for the former Executive Nine property, part of the Quail Valley Parks Project will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Community Center in the City Hall Complex at 1522 Texas Parkway.

The community will have the opportunity to comment following the remarks. Three potential priority elements for the property have been identified: Water features; Open/passive area for trails, paths, green space and benches, and; Limited activity areas not adjacent to homes potentially for playground, fitness equipment, pavilion and parking. The final park plan will be reviewed by the Missouri City Parks Board and by the City Council. The plan will be implemented in phases, with work on the first phase potentially beginning as early as the spring 2010. For more information, call 281403-8500 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

Professional Women Join the next South West Area Professional Express Network meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Featured speaker, Minerva Pérez is the creator and executive producer of Latina Voices: Smart Talk. She is an Emmy nominated broadcast journalist and former News Anchor in Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas and San Antonio.

SWAPEN is a business networking group whose goal is to bring together business women of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others to grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition. For more information visit www.swapen.org.

Merry Ministries Merry Ministries (www. merryministries.com) expanded its weekly women’s bible study to both morning and evening gatherings last September and had a great response to the additional night class.

Women of all ages are invited to join in the study of the New Testament Books of 1 & 2 Timothy when we begin the new semester Jan. 12 and 13.

Merry Ministries meets in the Sanctuary at Sugar Land First United Methodist Church (431 Eldridge Road). To register call 281-491-6041 or Barbara Conklin at 713-817-5153.

kite festival Kites of all shapes and sizes will adorn the sky of Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Boulevard, on Saturday, Jan. 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as the City celebrates its first ever Cultural Kite Festival.

Activities and entertainment will include an opening ceremony of kites, a miniature kite museum showcasing the diversified history of kite making, kite flying lessons and competitions and various cultural performances.

Also planned is a kite-making workshop where children can build their own kites and take them home as memorabilia. Walk-around characters, such as Ben Franklin, will provide atmosphere and a sense of connection to the history of kite flying in the United States.

A variety of popular cuisine and refreshments will be sold by local restaurants.

And there will be plenty of space for free flying kite lovers or those who prefer to stroll around and just enjoy the magnificent view and entertainment.

Kite flying is a popular activity and sport in many countries around the world, and it’s sure to be a local hit as Sugar Land represents a mixture of cultures and diversity.

Residents of all backgrounds and ages will be able to enjoy the festival and will not have to leave the City to participate in the activities.

For more information, contact the Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at 281275-2885 or visit www.sugarlandtx.gov.

Come and meet Drs. Ponce de Leon, Kulvinder Bajwa, and Sheilendra Mehta on the third Wednesday of every month starting in January at 6:30 p.m. at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, located in Conference Room A&D in the Main Pavilion. The doctors will present the latest information on Lap-Band surgery and answer your questions. Seating is limited. Call 281-274-7500 to reserve your seat. Seminar Dates: Jan. 20, Feb. 17, March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15 and Oct. 20.

Neck Pain Drs. Jeffrey B. Wood and Anthony J. Muffoletto, orthopedic spine surgeons with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, will be leading cervical/neck pain seminars on Tuesday, Feb. 9, and Tuesday, Feb. 23. The one-hour presentations begin at 6:30 p.m. and will be held at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Conference Room A&D. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited.

Call 281-274-7500 to register.

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION

BY PUBLICATION TO: SHARON BARILE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF EVANGELINE M. BARILE NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being January 25, 2010 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 401 Jackson Street, Suite105. We are located on the first floor of the courthouse building. The case is presently pending before the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on August 17, 2009. It bears cause number 09-DCV-174173 and is styled: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP vs Sharon Barile, Glenda Barile Salazar and the Unknown Heirs at Law of Evangeline M. Barile In Re: 507 Colony Lake Estates Drive, Stafford, Texas 77477.

The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: MARK G. TOHABI BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP 15000 SURVEYOR BOULEVARD, SUITE 100 ADDISON, TX 75001 972-386-5040 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: PLAINTIFF BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, L.P, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS BY AND THROUGH ITS AnORNEY OF RECORD, MARK G. TORABI OF BARREn DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP, 15000 SURVEYOR BLVD., ADDISON, TEXAS 75001, 972-386-5040, BROUGHT SUIT AGAINST DEFENDANTS SHARON BARILE, GLENDA BARILE SALAZAR AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF EVANGELINE M. BARILE, TO ENFORCE THE VENDOR’S LIEN ON AND ASSERT SUPERIOR TITLE TO THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 507 COLONY LAKE ESTATES DRIVE, STAFFORD, TEXAS 77477 AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: LOT TWENTY-NINE (29), IN BLOCK FOUR (4), OF COLONY LAKE ESTATES, SECTION ONE (1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NO(S).

2452/B AND 2453/A, BOTH OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS.

Sugar Creek Garden Club The Club’s monthly meeting will be held Jan. 21 at Sugar Creek Country Club. Social hour begins at 9:30 and the meeting begins at 10. Joel Kempfer, Horticultural Manager, Brookwood Community, will speak about “Houston Area Heat-Proof Color,” Plants that Work in Extreme Conditions. For information, call Aileen Flack, 281-242-8488.

Mazal Group of Hadassah The Mazal Group of Hadassah will meet for Coffee and Conversation on Friday, Jan. 22, at 10 a.m. at the home of Marolyn Block, Sugar Creek. Call Sue at 281-545-2229 for questions.

Hadassah supports health care and medical research throughout the world. Guests are welcome.

If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas By: Deputy District Clerk JOSIE PLATZ Telephone: 281-633-7613

Chris Calvin

Simple Organization Dear Lisa, While, I thoroughly enjoy and am very thankful for all the gifts, my kids received too many gifts from family and friends. They already had way too many things that they weren’t even playing with.

Now, I have to figure out where I am going to put these away.

What kind of organizing advice can you give me?

Signed overwhelmed Dear Overwhelmed, I know exactly what you are talking about. I remember on one occasion I tried to tell my mother-in-law to not buy as much for the kids. Unfortunately, it was not received well.

One solution that she came

up with as a compromise was to not buy as much for her own children. Funny thing is most children do not play with more than half of their toys.

They see and want it, but then they usually gravitate to only a couple of things. I believe that children can be just as overwhelmed with too much stuff.

My suggestion to you would be to first observe over the next couple of weeks which toys your children are “truly” playing with.

Be honest. Most of the time, the moms are more interested in their children having all of these toys and crafts.

Next, consider either donating some of the toys or put them in the attic. If the child

at a later time ask for the toys (most will not even remember) then you can give it back.

Once you have extra room, it should be easier to put things away.

Consider having the toys stored in one room. If your children want to play in a different room, have them put everything away when they are finished.

If you have an organizing question, you can contact Lisa at simpleorganization@comcast.net.

Lisa Giesler is a Professional Organizer and a member of NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers).

Visit her at www.atimeandplaceforeverything.org

WINTER MINI-TERMS and SPRING SEMESTER 2010 REGISTRATION

Winter Mini-Term begins December 21

(Register November 1 through December 17)

Spring semester classes begin January 19, 2010 (Register November 1 through January 16)

WHARTON • SUGAR LAND • RICHMOND • BAY CITY EL CAMPO • PALACIOS

wcjc.edu 1-800-561-WCJC WCJC is an E.O.E. institution.

JANUARY 6, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7

Musings: Drunken Mockingbirds

By JANICE SCANLAN A few sunny days ago while working in the garden I noticed all the holly berries starting to turn red.

True to the Gulf Coast, this is always promptly after Christmas. I now associate orange and burgundy as much with Christmas as I do red and green. No, this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t because of UT and A&M. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when what limited fall colors we have occur.

The turning red berries signal an interesting bird activity. And it creates quite a commotion in my front garden. The first time I heard it, I supposed it was the Mockingbirds and Crows fighting for territory.

However, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hear the crows so I went outside to see what was happening. Did I get a sight! The holly berries had fermented and the Mockingbirds were attempting to keep the â&#x20AC;&#x153;tavern on the greenâ&#x20AC;? to themselves. To do so they were engaging in some aerobatics that would impress the Blue Angelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; precision jet flying team.

Soon quite a bird crowd

Texans are gathered.

I less edusuppose like cated than happy hour. older TexWhile my pair ans: Only of Cardinals 30.7% of did a fairly Texans ages good job of 25-34 have getting their an associshare of the ate degree fermented or higher berries, the compared Mockingbirds to 33.7% for were makthose 35-44; ing it hard for 34.3% for them and all those 45-54; the birds.

Scanlan and 33.5% for But the longer . . . you get the their berry imbibing occurred so did the effec- picture. A failure to reverse tiveness of the dive bombing this trend will mean a steady aerobatics. After a few more decline in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s per capminutes the Mockingbirds ita income because we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t were downright drunk and be able to compete with betwobbly. Fairly soon they had ter educated workforces for completely lost their com- the best jobs tomorrow.

But it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start with petitive edge from their usuhigher education. al aggressiveness.

Our school dropout rate Sadly, this story reminds me of the report of the Texas is exploding. 93 youngsters appointed Select Commis- drop out of school every sion Report on Texas Higher hour of every school day.

Moreover, our science, Education and Global Commath and technology petitiveness.

Readers, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going faced a tremendous blow backwards. In fact, younger in 2007, with science and

math teachers leaving Texas schools at an alarming rate.

Since Texas is ranked 35th in teacher pay, this is quite understandable. Consequently, our Texas schools have a higher percentage of out-offield teachers in science and math and the percentage is double (40%) in high dropout schools.

Do you remember fondly any of your sub-standard teachers much less any of their subject matter?

This is not about building new or more buildings. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about improving teaching and curriculum. In past opinion pages, parents working in engineering, medicine and other science related fields report this disparity in Fort Bend science and math education: we have a few great teachers, but too many who are not qualified or supported with curriculum.

And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best teachers who make subjects relevant and exciting. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for us to leave happy hour if we want Texas to be competitive.

Reach Janice at open. space@earthlink.net.

Eclipse Soccer helps FBJSL Fort Bend Junior Service League accepted a check from Eclipse Soccer Club in the amount of $6,772, representing the results of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraising campaign to support breast cancer awareness month in October.

The League will use Eclipseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s donation and that of other partnering organizations, including Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, to further the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fight against breast cancer.

FBJSL is working with the American Cancer Society in an ongoing, collaborative effort to provide financial support for programs and services designed to improve quality of life, provide access

to early detection and treatment, and diminish suffering for Fort Bend County breast cancer patients.

Eclipse raised the money through their inaugural Score for the Cause fundraiser, which had two components.

The soccer club sold pink Score for the Cause t-shirts, which brightened up Lost Creek Park as club members proudly sported them on the field for their October matches. As title sponsor for Eclipse and as a partnering organization with FBJSL for promoting breast cancer awareness, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital led the way in uniting the three groups.

Those interested in part-

Not just oil, Pennzoil

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In the Sugar Land Industrial Park 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land 281-242-8100 rjones@jonesattorneys.com www.jonesattorneys.com AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

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nering to raise funds to further breast cancer treatment and awareness is encouraged to contact FBJSL at info@fbjsl.com or 281-636-6272.

14090 Southwest Fwy, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: (281)265-4263

Front Row: Rick Safier â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Eclipse Soccer Club, Brigit Engleman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FBJSL President, Melissa Hayslip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FBJSL Past President, Steve Alexander - Eclipse Soccer Club. Second Row: Kaelyn Stolhand â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Angela Byrd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, Mac McCallum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Eclipse Soccer Club, and Janet Leatherwood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

www.charlottealexandermd.com Se Habla Espanol

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Film Review : An Education This was a complete sleeper to me. Friends recommended this movie because they thought Carey Mulligan turned in an Oscar-worthy performance. I was willing to give them the benefit of the doubt so I sat down to watch this British story of a 16 year old girl circa 1961 fall in love with an older man and possibly forgo her plans to attend Oxford.

This is why we should listen to our friends. Ms. Mulliganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance made me reassess my vote for Best Actress. Currently, my vote is going to Carey Mulligan for her portrayal of Jenny the student in an all-girl high school in England who has â&#x20AC;&#x153;class... beauty...and cleverness.â&#x20AC;?

After I saw this movie, the Houston Film Critics Society held their annual awards

ceremony on December 19th and their Best Actress Award for 2009 went to Carey Mulligan. Told you so. Ms. Mulligan is only 24 years old and has a fantastic career in front of her. Remember that you heard it here first.

As an aside, she had a costarring role in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brothersâ&#x20AC;? starring Tobey Maguire and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Alfred Molina skillfully plays her nervous, overprotective father who falls prey to the same charm of the older man (Peter Sarsgaard age 38) that caused Jenny to swoon. This movie is quite different than other movies playing in your local theatres so I hope you can find it in a theatre near you so you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get caught on Oscar night saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;who the heck is Carey

Mulligan?â&#x20AC;? Her wide range of emotions from the naĂŻve teenager to the sophisticated young woman who went to jazz clubs and dog races as well as overnight trips to Par-

is with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;older manâ&#x20AC;? was superb. Glad I saw it.

Rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Roll.

Grade 90. Larry H. Email to sugarlaw@ larryharrison.com

6287+:(67 <($56 6(59,1* 7+( 38%/,&

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HAPPY NEW YEAR ZZZ UHPD[ VRXWKZHVW FRP

LONESTAR BLUEGRASS BAND. The Friends of the Arts Committee, First United Methodist Church, Missouri City presents its first concert of the new year, the Lonestar Bluegrass Band.

Bluegrass was inspired by the music of Appalachian immigrants from the United Kingdom and Ireland. It has hints of blues and jazz, making it popular with many folks in the U.S. and abroad.

The band has a lot of fun playing tunes by Clapton, Wonder, and Starr, as well as tunes of their own. You will be clappinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; along when you hear them take off! The concert will be held Jan. 9, at 4 p.m. in the church chapel at First United Methodist Church, 3900 Lexington Blvd. in Missouri City. The concert is free to the public. Love offerings will be accepted. For more details call 281-499-3502 or e mail FriendsoftheArts@comcast.net.

Directory Directory Directory Directory Directory Dentists

Orthopedics

Eateries

Spa

Pets

Fort Bend Dental Associates, PA 5819 Highway 6 S. #230 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.ftbenddental.com (281) 499-3541 Dr. James D. Condrey, DDS

Charlotte Alexander, MD Orthopedic Surgeon 14090 SW Fwy #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-265-4264

Cupcake Cafe 16525 Lexington Blvd., Suite 160 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.cupcakecafeofsugarland.com (281) 242-2744 Gary McSweeney, Owner

JAVANI Med Spa 3527 Highway 6, Suite 250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.javanimedspa.com (281) 491-1151 Afreen Pappa, MD, CEO

Lexington Boulevard Animal Hospital 2627 Cordes Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.lexingtonpethospital.com (281) 980-3737 Dr. Sandy Seamans, DVM

Dennis Halford, DDS, MS 4503 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 (281) 980-8351

Thomas Parr, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon 14090 SW Fwy #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-7111

Julieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cakes 3424 FM 1092 #230 Missouri City, TX 77459 (281) 261-8229 Julie Clifton, Owner

Kalologie Skincare 15890 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.kalologie.com (281) 265-0880 Christine Reyes, Manager

Lake Olympia Animal Hospital 3603 Glenn Lakes Lane, B2 Missouri City, TX 77459-4719 www.lakeolympiaanimal.com (281) 499-7242 Terry J. Dobson, DVM

Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic, P.A. 15035 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.rbjc.com (281) 344-1715 Cheryl Bertrand, Physician Liaison

Bombay to Beijing 14025 Southwest Freeway, Suite 501, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-242-4242 Indian & Chinese Cuisine

Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Friend 7260 Highway 6, Suite 100 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.mansbestfriend.com (281) 499-0700 Kelly Frankie, General Manager

Texas Spine & Neurosurgery Center, 20403 University Blvd. #800 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.txsnc.com (281) 313-0031 Rajesh K. Bindal, MD

Minuti Coffee 1535 Hwy. 6, Suite A Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.minuticoffee.com (281) 265-3344 Ardavan Motamedi, CEO

Shea Essence Day Spa 203 Century Sq. Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.sheaessence.com (281) 242-2878 Theodora Vandyke, CEO

Thomas Lomonte DDS 12122 Murphy Road Stafford, TX 77477 www.drthomaslomonte.com (281) 530-1440 Amber Patterson

Physicians Kas Saranathan, M.D. 16659 S.W. Fwy,#481 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-771-3831 Cardiologist Nik Nikam, MD Sugar Land Heart Center 16659 S.W. FWY, #361 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-7567 www.sugarlandheartcenter.com

Robert L. McClendon, M.D. 14825 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX, 77478 281-240-6000 A.Y. Shukla, M.D Neurologist 15200 SW Fwy., #395 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-565-8005

Chiropractors Stafford Chiropractic Clinic 2434 S. Main Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 499-2424 Dr. John A. Felker, DC, PC Dr. Richard F. Barrett Barrett Chiropractic Clinic 281-499-4810 www.barrettchiroclinic.com

First Colony Aquatic & Rehabilitation Center 20403 University Blvd., Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 325-0188 Sean M. Hayes, PT CSCS,

Foot Specialist Foot Centers of Texas 3533 Town Center Blvd. S, #200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.foodcentersoftexas.com (281) 240-3338 Shetal-Nicholas Desai

A/C, Plumbing

Pest control Gillen Pest Control 1012 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 www.gillenpestcontrol.com (281) 342-6969 Gary L. Gillen, President

Flowers Flowers by Adela 3756 Cartwright Road Missouri City, TX 77459 www.flowersbyadela.com (281) 499-5593 Mrs. Ramona Ohl, Owner

Hartford Services, Inc. 741 Dulles Avenue, Suite D Stafford, TX 77477 www.hartfordservices.com (281) 261-3333 Mitch Rahim, President

Flowers by Adela 925 Eldridge Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.flowersbyadela.com (281) 242-4020 Ms. Ramona Ohl, Owner

Satellite TV

Insurance

Dish Network/Direct TV A-One International 9220 Hwy 6 South, Suite D Houston, Texas 77083 281-493-1888

Texans Insurance & Financial Group, 101 Southwestern Blvd., Suite 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.swinsure.com (281) 277-7800 Basil Housewright, President

Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa 1437 Highway 6, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.drshel.com (281) 313-7435 Dr. Shelena Lalji, Medical Director The Woodhouse Day Spa 4855 Riverstone Drive, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.sugarland.woodhousespas.com (281) 208-9119 Roland Benavicles, Owner Genesis Day Spa and Salon 16255 Kensington Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.spagenesis.com (281) 265-6001 Sonnie Gohel, Owner Aveda Concept Salon Eben & Day Spa 15510 Lexington, Suite G Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.salonebenanddayspa.com (281) 980-5160 Dario G. Beistegui, Owner

Accountants Sandersen & Knox LLP , Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.SKBTexas.com (281) 242-3232 Alan Sandersen, CPA, Partner KenWood & Associates, PC Certified Public Accountants One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. #300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.kenwoodpc.com (281) 243-2300 Mr. Kenneth J. Wood, President

Attorney Hrbacek & Associates,P.C. 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com 281-240-2424

Just for $10 a week you can list your business in this directory.

Minimum 13 weeks commitment for $125; 26 weeks for $250 and 52 weeks for $500.

Call today 281-980-6745 or email editor@ fbindependent.com