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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2011

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Sugar Land

Designing Home with Stars

Sienna Plantation’s American Society of Interior Designers Show Home Designing with the Stars features this rustic, Hill-Country themed home and it will be open for touring April 1 through April 17. See story on Page 7.

OakBend Medical Center recently celebrated the opening of a new Emergency Department on the Grand Parkway , with a joint ribbon cutting attended by both the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance and the Fort Bend Chamber. The center is located at 7830 W. Grand Parkway (at West Bellfort). Also located within the OakBend Professional Building at this location are Plex Sports Therapy, Texas Sports Medicine Institute. It is also the future site for an additional location of the OakBend Medical Group. For additional information call (281) 341-3023. Participating in the ribbon cutting ceremiony were May W. Tape, DDS, left, Ted Volf, KellyHarris, Himesh Ghandi, Cliff Terrell, Keri Schmidt, Allison Wen, Rom McCann, Chris Breaux, Joe Freudenberger, Bruce Mercer, R. C. Brown, III, Steven Metzenthin, Gail Parker, Tommy Kuykendall, Kevin Patton, Jeff Council, Cheryl Stalinsky, Robert Quarles.

Sartartia Middle School sixth-grade student, Rahul Kidambi, and Fort Settlement Middle School seventh-grade student, Sivateja Tangirala, are the Fort Bend ISD Spelling Bee Champions. First Colony Middle School sixth-grade student, Meghan Nguyen, holds the alternate position. The two champions will compete in the HoustonPBS Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 26. The competition will be aired live at 2 p.m. on HoustonPBS, Channel 8. The champion of the bee advances to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D. C. on June 1-2, 2011. Expenses for competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee will be paid by HoustonPBS. The Fort Bend ISD Spelling Bee is made possible through the generous support of many, including the Campus Spelling Bee coordinators who prepare the students through campus competitions. The District Bee relies on volunteer assistance from the hosting campus, Fort Settlement Middle School, and in particular – Julie Diaz, principal; Brad Hitchcock, associate principal; Len Bunting, secretary, and Lidia Jimenez, head

custodian. Others that serve to operationalize the bee and make it run smoothly include: Dr. Teresa Grimm, FBISD Spelling Bee coordinator; Alan Brown, pronouncer; Valeria Maclin, lead judge; Marion Brennan, judge; Kenna Worthington, judge; Michele Croft, hugger; Pam Boucher, helper; Susan Grotte, helper; Pat Pustejovsky, helper; and Becky McGuire, secretary. Pictured from the left are: Spelling Bee Champion Rahul Kilambi; Spelling Bee Champion Sivateja Tangirala; Dr. Teresa Grimm, FBISD Spelling Bee Coordinator and Dyslexia/Literacy Coordinator; and Spelling Bee Alternate Meghan Nguyen.

Toll road security contract goes to Pct. 2 and 3 constables

By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County Commissioners Court last week authorized Pct. 2 Constable Ruben Davis and Pct. 3 Constable Rob Cook to provide security for the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road and the Westpark Toll Road, respectively. The constables will hire two deputies each to provide the services at a total cost of $351,600. Pct.2 Commissioner Grady Prestage made the motion and Pct.3 Commissioner Andy Meyers seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. Pct. 1 Commissioner Richard Morrison was absent. So far, the toll road security had been provided by Pct. 4 Members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas recently journeyed to Constable Troy Nehls. He had Missouri City to celebrate the Republic’s 175th anniversary. From three deputies doing the job at a cost of $263,700. left are Dale Williamson, Mayor Allen Owen, and Tom Green. Initially, Fort Bend County army won the decisive Bat- history of this great state,” Sheriff’s Office was providtle of San Jacinto on April Green said. ing the toll road security, but Williamson shared his about two years ago, the toll 21, 1836. Texas joined the United States about a decade family’s historical ties to road authority hired the Pct. 4 later in 1845, but the idea of Texas. “My ancestor, Judge Constable. The reported reaTexas as its own nation, and Robert Williamson, known son was the sheriff’s service its fight for independence, as ‘three-legged Willie,’ was not satisfactory to the toll shapes the state’s identity to came to Texas in 1826 and road authority. served with the Texas Rangthis day. When the security contract Joining Mayor Owen at ers, was the first Judge in came up for renewal last year the reading of the proclama- the Republic of Texas, was a Meyers raised a legal question. tion at City Hall were Tom Texas Supreme Court Justice The Local Government Green and Dale Williamson and was elected to the Texas Code says, “The commissionwith the Sons of the Repub- Legislature six times,” re- ers court shall approve and called Williamson, who was confirm the appointment of the lic of Texas. “The Sons of the Republic dressed in period costume. deputy only if the commissionof Texas encourage residents “So this day is very impor- ers court determines that the of Missouri City and across tant to my family.” constable needs a deputy to the state to learn about the handle the business originating

Missouri City Mayor proclaims Texas Independence Day Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen has proclaimed Tuesday, March 1 as “Texas Independence Day” in the Show Me City to celebrate the 175th year since the founding of the Republic of Texas. “A lot of people have moved to the state and while they may visit the Alamo, they may not understand the history of that event,” noted Mayor Owen. “Texas Independence Day is part of the history of the state that people are encouraged to read about and appreciate as they go about their daily lives.” Texas Independence Day originally began in 1836 when 59 signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence gathered in a blacksmith shop at Washington-on-the-Brazos and formally split from Mexico to form the Republic of Texas. The signing came less than a year after the first battle of the Texas Revolution was fought in October 1835 in Gonzales. Texas won independence when the revolutionary

FBISD Spelling champs compete at HoustonPBS Spelling meet

in the precinct...” Meyers said it is not good policy to completely ignore facts and to approve a Constable to work exclusively in another precinct because neither toll road lies in the jurisdiction of Pct. 4. Nehls took issue with Meyers and challenged his opinion. Subsequently, the issue got mired in a political controversy. Also, stories appeared in a section of the press, opposed to the sheriff, highlighting how the constable provided better security than the sheriff’s office. Chief Deputy Craig Brady in the sheriff’s office has announced he will run for sheriff next year. Nehls has also been considering running for the same position. When Brady made public statements based on Meyers’ interpretation, Nehls took offense and their rivalry had its echo on the toll road se-

curity issue. Meyers denounced the allegation that he supported Brady. He said he wanted to ensure that the commissioners complied with the law. He did not challenge the law enforcement powers of the Pct. 4 Constable. He did not care whether the sheriff or the constable got the contract. Also, Meyers did not want to hire too many deputies as the toll road authority had proposed. Since there are 16 cameras monitoring the two toll roads 24/7, eight or even six deputies for patrolling 12 miles of road is a little much, Meyers said. The issue got resolved when Prestage entered the scene and claimed the job for the Pct. 2 Constable. With Meyers’ insistence on minimizing costs, the court settled on a total of four deputies.

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

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Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 10701 Corporate Dr., #282, Stafford, Texas 77477. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 2, 2011

Denim & Diamonds

The ladies of the Southminster School Gala Committee are working on one of the most spectacular events of the season. Dubbed Denim & Diamonds, the event is scheduled, for Saturday, April 9, at the Stafford Centre and promises to deliver a host of surprises. This year’s event highlight is a fully loaded Chevy Camaro generously donated by the Gala’s presenting sponsor, Texas Direct Auto. Tickets for a chance at the Camaro are $100 each. Only 500 will be sold, and they can be purchased by contacting Raffle Chair Shannon Boyer at 832-440-0140 or via email at gala@southminsterschool.com. The winning raffle ticket will be selected the evening of the Gala; however, it is not necessary to be present to win. Officially adding the “bling” to the event is the addition of the Denim & Diamonds Dig. Guests will have an opportunity to win a stunning onecarat diamond, as well as designer jeans from Latte Tots Boutique. Chances on this beautiful gem are $5 each or five for $20.

Some of our unique auction items include a ski package to Colorado, a VIP Sports package including game tickets, sideline court passes and autographed merchandise from the Houston Rockets, plus a very special and private Cookies & Milk party with Santa including a photo session with Christine Meeker. Additionally, the evening will feature a tasty dinner from Demeris Catering, dessert from Who Made the Cake! (as featured in People magazine’s EXTRA edition of Amazing Real Weddings), and dancing to the music of Group Therapy. The stellar line up of auction items includes a deep-sea fishing trip, spa packages to local day spas and a VIP family package to the Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus. “We’re thrilled to have the support of such generous sponsors and know that everyone who attends will enjoy the evening,” said Helen Jackson, Head of School at Southminster. “This year’s raffle prizes are some of the best we’ve ever assembled.” Individual ticket sales for

the event are on sale now, and the Fort Bend community is invited to attend. Individual event tickets are $50 each, and reserved tables of 10 start at $750. Current event sponsors include Texas Direct Auto, iEnergy North America, Christine Meeker Photography, Latte Tots, Demeris Catering, Leonetti Graphics, Sweet Tooth Stationary, The Phoenix Design Group, Capital Legal Solutions, Group Therapy, and Funeral Discounters.com. Located in Missouri City, Southminster School is a private Christian academy that serves children from 18 months through the fifth grade. Its student body is a reflection of the diverse, energetic community that surrounds the school, and its staff takes full advantage of the tools with which it is provided to help those children grow and learn through the early, critical years of development. For additional information or to purchase tickets, call Southminster School, 281261-8872, visit southminsterschoolgala.org or email gala@ southminsterschool.org.

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MARCH 2, 2011 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

News Don Smith seeks re-election in Misosuri City two-week interactive program with all sessions delivered by professionals with M.D.s, PhDs, and M.Ed’s, including others with many years of experience in their respective fields. “Over 25 years experience as a marketing director for a Fortune 300 company has afforded me the skills to solve problems, develop consensus with both advocates and adversaries, concentrate on the needs on a broader scope, and envision initiatives geared towards a better future for our great city,” Smith said. Smith has owned a home in Hunters Glen III for 32.5 years and has been affiliated with the HOA since 1980, serving on several occasions as the President, as he is presently. After years working to gain favorable position to gain a bank loan for a perimeter fence around Hunters Glen III, construction should start by mid-March, 2011. “We on the Executive Board are proud of this and other accomplishments,” he said. The citizens of Missouri City and District B deserve professional leadership with courage, commitment, and the experience to successfully operate in those arenas that’s beneficial to the well being of our city. “I am running for re-election because I believe I am the best candidate for the position. I am the best candidate to get things done.”

Missouri City City Councilman Don Smith has announced he will seek re-election. “To accommodate the rapid population growth, Missouri City citizens deserve leadership with vision and proven ability to work with businesses; encouraging them to move in, build, and expand... which I have done my entire tenure on council,” Smith said. “As a City Councilman, I believe it’s important that the decisions I make are influence by the citizens I represent. There should be a consistent method of Councilman to Constituent Protocol. My plans are to get this done and not forget the magnitude of its importance,” he said. Smith said he will resurrect the quarterly District B Community Forum to listen to the suggestions and concerns of the “stakeholders” and to disseminate information relevant to the neighborhood and citizens of concerns. “During my tenure, I have been fortunate to participate in the development of several Missouri City recognizable accomplishments, such as: Texas Parkway getting a face lift (initiated in 2005) – although Texas Parkway is a State Highway, Missouri City has found funds to build sidewalks to improve mobility, place concrete conduits to enhance drainage, and plant trees in strategic areas to improve the esthetics of Texas Parkway.

Major businesses have moved to Missouri City, bringing with them jobs and consumers who will help to attract new business; especially to the Texas Parkway/ Cartwright corridor. Small to medium size businesses are building or moving on Texas Parkway. Hunters Glen Park (not in my district but my neighborhood) is one of the most used parks in the City. The Water Park and jogging trail attracts kids and adults from all over. Meetings with shopping center owners influenced one owner to repair one of his centers … the center has been no less than 98% occupied, since.” These meetings will continue until all businesses on Cartwright Road and Texas Parkway are thriving and the shopping centers are occupied with businesses and services that are attractive to the neighborhood, Smith said. “I have advocated diversity and have consistently monitored the City’s hiring and contract awarding practices. I believe Missouri City’s business practices should reflect the demographics of the city,” he said. He plans to resurrect the Minority Contractors Vendor’s Breakfast to provide minority contractors access to the department heads who decide which contractors will conduct business with the city. Nine years ago Smith

Aggie Moms

Edible Arbor Trail ribbon cutting ceremony on March 5

Book signing at Sugar Creek Baptist Church

Join Missouri City Parks & Recreation and Missouri City Green as they kick off the Edible Arbor Trail along the Missouri City section of Oyster Creek Trail on Saturday, March 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Edible Arbor Trail is a one-of-a-kind project featuring several types of trees and shrubs that produce edible fruits and nuts. The event will be at the section of the Missouri City Trail System in between Mosley Park and Walmart. A formal Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place at 9:30 a.m. with City Council members and sponsors. Everyone is invited to attend. After the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, nature-inspired activity booths with giveaways and crafts will be open until 12 p.m. In addition, those who actually walk the Edible Arbor Trail will receive a prize. Admission is FREE. Parking is available near FunTiki or at Walmart. Groves in the Edible Arbor Trail are sponsored by Kroger, TXU, HGAC, Quail Valley Church and Apache Foundation. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteering at the event, contact Missouri City Green at mocitygreen@gmail.com or Paul Wierzbicki, City Forester for Missouri City, at 281-4038645.

Three Sugar Creek authors will be autographing their books — Frank Minton, author of “Baseball hits and Bible Bits” shares unforgettable stories about two of his great loves-baseball and the Bible; Tom Barnette, author of “The Rule of 52” discusses applying a simple principle that will lead to success in life, business and your family; Toni King, author of “The Medicare Survival Guide” helps those who are confused and want to know how to navigate the maze of Medicare. The book signing will be on Sunday, March 6 during all three worship services from 8 a.m. to12:30 p.m. Public is invited. Sugar Creek Baptist Church is at 1333 SW Freeway. Contact Dennis Woods at 281-242-2858.

Aggie moms meet on March 7 at 7 p.m. at the Sugar Land Community Center, 226 Matlage Way and the guest speaker will be David Mahon, associate director of the Career Center at Texas A&M. The event includes refreshments, social time and boutique shopping followed by the program and business meeting. For more information contact Debbie Cortez at holyspirit55@hotmail.com.

Texas Trash Off Saturday, April 2 Imagine… a beautiful morning in Sugar Land, you are outdoors enjoying it, and making a difference in your community! If this sounds good, we have the perfect volunteer opportunity for you. Keep Sugar Land Beautiful’s 18th Annual Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off will be held Saturday, April 2. Volunteers are needed to pick up litter at designated sites in Sugar Land. This event is part of the nationwide Great American Cleanup and volunteers across the country will be conducting similar cleanups in their community. Last year, 354 volunteers in Sugar Land picked up over 4,528 pounds of litter! We need your help! Registration is required to participate. Registration forms may be downloaded at www.kslb.org. Individuals, families, and groups are welcome. All volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Volunteers will need to provide their own transportation to a designated cleanup site. Please dress comfortably – trash bags and gloves will be provided. Registration ends March 17. A complimentary breakfast will be hosted by Whole Foods Market in Sugar Land for all registered participants at 10 a.m. The first 400 participants to register and participate will receive a free tee shirt. For more information, visit www.kslb.org.

Smith founded the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF). The mission of the MCJCF is to bring positive attention to African – Americans while celebrating the Emancipation Proclamation. Over the years the MCJCF have, (1) honored citizens of Missouri City/Fort Bend County for their exemplary contribution to the community,(2) awarded scholarships to deserving student, (3) offered consultation and screening for the major causes of mortality to citizens in the county area, and (4) grown to become the largest celebration of its kind in the country. Smith also established Villagers 20/20, a 501 (c) (3) organization, designed to prepare tomorrow’s leaders today through a series of lifestyle and social development programs. The young adults and students’ lives Villagers 20/20 have touched are in hundreds. Villagers 20/20 began as a

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University Boulevard South construction begins

(281)277-7800 Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc 101 Southwestern Blvd, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478-3535 Work recently began on a 1.8-mile stretch of University Boulevard from Commonwealth Boulevard to Riverstone that will eventually connect U.S. Highway 59 to State Highway 6. The $16 million project was funded through Fort Bend County mobility bonds and the City of Sugar Land’s capital improvement program. Completion is expected by spring 2013. The regional roadway will include four lanes divided by a median with curbs and gutters. The project will also include the construction of three bridges and traffic signals at the intersections of University Boulevard at Commonwealth Boulevard and University Boulevard at Elkins Road. Pictured during a recent ribbon cutting ceremony were Jon Harper, of Texas Sterling Construction; City Engineer Chris Steubing; Engineer III Keisha Seals; Assistant City Manager Karen Glynn; City Manager Allen Bogard; Councilmember Michael Schiff; Anthony Columbo, of Texas Sterling Construction; Councilmember Don Smithers; Councilmember Thomas Abraham; Mayor James Thompson; Assistant City Manager Karen Daly; Councilmember Don Olson; Councilmember Russell Jones; and Billy Mitchell, of Texas Sterling Construction.

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Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 2, 2011

Opinion

The View from Sugar Land No American leadership in Libya By RUSSELL C. JONES This column has suggested the last thing Obama wants to do is to appear to be a leader of the international community. Although some criticism for that comment has been received, nothing has occurred in the intervening weeks to suggest otherwise. On several occasions this column has referred to Dinesh D’Souza’s book The Roots of Obama’s Rage. Credence has been given to its underlying theory that Obama is guided by the belief that the United States has no business taking a role in the world which is intended to move less developed nations in a pro-American direction. Although branded as extreme by liberals and too readily dismissed by conservatives, it is the only theory yet offered which explains the foreign policy of this president. Obama’s Kenyan father was a believer that Western nations and their upper classes were nothing but colonizers and oppressors of third world peoples. Although Obama spent very little time with his father, D’Souza’s theory is that Obama was enthralled by the belief system of his father and that it can be seen every day in his role as president. Last Wednesday, following 10 days of silence on the demonstrations in Tripoli against Gaddafi’s dictatorial regime of 42 years, the president finally spoke on the topic. Declining to take a leadership role, he instead announced his intention to support United Nations sanctions against the incumbent government. This is the same United Nations whose human rights commission includes Libya itself. Only on Friday did Obama finally submit to bipartisan criticism and actually take a stand calling for Gaddafi’s resigna-

Jones tion. He finally called Gaddafi by name and offered more details about the proposed sanctions, but promised no action except the freezing of Libyan assets in the United States. More leadership on Middle East issues has been shown in the past two weeks by France and Germany than Obama has ever suggested for the United States in his two years in office. In a strange move, Friday’s policy announcement came not in a speech to the public, but in a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The content of the phone call was then published in a press release. Even that sounded mild: “The president and the chancellor shared deep concerns about the Libyan government’s continued violation of human rights and brutalization of its people.” Criticism has come from both ends of the political spectrum. Even the liberal Slate website called the “administration’s pathetic, dithering response to the Arab uprisings . . . both cynical and naive.” If that does not sound like American leadership, you are right. In an attempt to be fair to the

president, it should be noted that Republican leaders have generally been as absent on the Libyan issue as Obama. On Sunday McCain became the first leading member of his party to openly advocate a strong policy against Gaddafi, criticizing Obama for not imposing “a no-fly zone on Libyan airspace some time ago,” but he declined to advocate using “ground forces or further intervention.” That does not sound like leadership either. The bottom line is that no American political leader is offering a plan for dealing with Libya. That appears to be what Obama wants. Time for Action in Wisconsin When Democrat state senators absented themselves from the capitol in Madison two weeks ago, public sentiment– other than that of the labor unions–seemed to be swaying in favor of Governor Walker’s plan to curb the collective bargaining rights of state workers. As the protests drag on, polls seem to suggest that the tide may be turning. The truth is that Walker is only asking government employees in Wisconsin to limit themselves to essentially the same rights enjoyed by Federal government employees. Federal workers have no right to strike and no collective bargaining rights. Not even Obama has proposed such perks for the two million government employees who ultimately report to him. It is time for Walker and the Republicans to advance their agenda, before time runs out and the voters turn against them. Jones is a member of the Sugar Land City Council, having been first elected in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.

Musings: Lamb or Lion By JANICE SCANLAN Since Punxsutawney Phil, the weather predicting groundhog, was iced in this year, the next major question is will March come in like a lion or a lamb? If the wind on Sunday was any prediction, March will roar. And this past week, despite the wind, has been glorious. Staying inside and working has been a chore! When I was able to get out, there were many people out soaking up the good weather. An interesting trend I’ve been observing is the number of people, particularly younger men, who no longer use golf carts, but push carts to play golf—and walk the course, which means they get in between 5 and 6 miles of walking exercise beyond the swinging of clubs. And it all seems to work fine. Most, in fact, walk off the path with carts passing the walkers. I see a lot of young men playing at Missouri City Quail Valley Golf. That’s welcome in many ways (No, I’m not Mrs. Robinson). Some days, especially weekends, it looks like an ant hive of activity-including tournaments. This past weekend a “red ball” tournament, which involves one of the foursome having the red ball (which really looked more pink to me).

Scanlan If the ball is lost, the entire team is out. I was watching with my friend Linn who lives on the 11. The teams were still going at that hole despite the water hazards on the El Dorado course . . . with only one out that Linn mentioned so far that day. My Azaleas have begun to bud out . . . so inside Houston, the Azaleas are likely further along, on time for the Azalea Trail March 4-6, which will have Camellias and Azaleas blooming together, which does not always happen. There are a boatload of events around birds and nature, including NatureFest, in Humble, March 5; Texas Wildlife & Woodland Expo, March 26 at Lone Star College in Montgomery; and Galveston FeatherFest, April 7-10 where field trips range from bus, boat, or kayak to

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see over 200 species of birds migrating through our Gulf Coast www.galvestonfeatherfest.com. Closer to home the Missouri City Little League opens . . . my, what nice ball fields we have for those kids! Community Park looks awesome. And the Missouri City Little League itself spent $300,000 for a concession stand to feed the parents, supporters and players. And don’t forget the Edible Arbor Trail on Oyster Creek Park between Walmart and Mosley Park. Park at 3811 Raoul Wallenberg Lane, which is a grassy lot right at the festivities. March 5, 9:30 until noon, with prizes, plants, a face painter, kite flying and much to enjoy. There will be bird enthusiasts, a bee keeper, master gardeners and native plant experts . . . and the trees are budding with the wonderful Mexican Plums blooming! And you can get deputized to Keep Missouri City Green! And if all this spring beauty has you inspired, the Fort Bend Master Gardeners have their annual plant sale, Saturday, March 12 at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, Build D, 4310 HWY 36 South in Rosenberg. There is a free program starting at 8 a.m. There are all kinds of good plants to buy including native plants, perennials, vines; roses; vegetables, a limited numbers of fruit trees and all kinds of gardening supplies. Bring your own wagon if you like. www.fbmg.com. Happy Spring. Write to Janice at janicescanlan@earthlink.net.

Texas Straight Talk Congress must reject the welfare/warfare state By RON PAUL During the past few weeks, Congress has been locked in a battle to pass a continuing resolution to fund government operations through September. Both supporters and opponents of the bill, HR 1, claim it is a serious attempt to reduce federal spending. However, an examination of the details of the bill call that claim into question. For one thing, the oft-cited assertion that HR 1 reduces spending by $99 billion is misleading. The $99 billion figure merely represents the amount that HR 1 reduces spending from the President’s proposed Fiscal Year 2011 budget - not reductions in actual spending. Trying to claim credit for a reduction in spending based on cuts in proposed spending is like claiming someone is following a diet because he had only five slices of pizza when he intended to have 10 slices! In fact, HR 1 only reduces real federal spending by $66 billion compared to last year’s budget. This may seem like a lot to the average American but in the context of an overwhelming trillion-dollar budget and a national debt that could exceed 100 percent of GNP in September, it is barely a drop in the bucket. One reason that HR 1 does not cut spending enough is that too many fiscal conservatives continue to embrace the fallacy that we can balance the budget without reducing spending on militarism. Until Congress realizes the folly of

Paul spending trillions pretending to impose democracy on the world we will never be able to seriously reduce spending. Congress must not only reject the warfare state, it must also reject the welfare state. HR 1 is more aggressive in ending domestic spending than foreign spending, and does zero out some objectionable federal programs such as AmeriCorps. However, HR 1 leaves most of the current functions of the federal government undisturbed. This bill thus continues the delusion that we can have a fiscally responsible and efficient welfare state. The failure to even attempt to address the serious threat the welfare-warfare state poses to American liberty and prosperity is the main reason why supporters of limited government and individual liberty ultimately should find HR 1 unsatisfactory. Only a rejection of the view that Congress can run the

economy, run our lives, and run the world will allow us to make the spending reductions necessary to avert a serious financial crisis. This does not mean we should not prioritize and discuss how to gradually transition away from the welfare state in a manner that does not harm those currently relying on these programs. However, we must go beyond balancing the budget to transitioning back to a free society, and that means eventually placing responsibility for social welfare back in the hands of individuals and private institutions. Despite the overheated rhetoric heard during the debate, HR 1 is a diversion from the difficult task of restoring constitutional government and a free economy and society. It is time for Congress to get serious about cutting spending, not merely tinkering around the edges of the proposed budget and kicking the can down the road for future generations. If we fail to act decisively now, there will soon come a time when both our money and our capacity to borrow will run out. When that happens, our ability to negotiate and play political games with spending priorities will be over. To avoid real chaos, the time to start dealing with our bloated government budget is right now. (Ron Paul represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas.)

Guest Commentary Moving hope to reality By FLOYD EMERY A recent article addressing the apathy displayed in local and City elections looked at the core reasons for this gloomy commentary. One element was the quality of candidates vying for the open positions available in an election. I would like to share my thoughts and observations on the upcoming Quail Valley Fund HOA Board election for the four open positions on their board. At the recent “Meet the Candidates” event it was refreshing and rewarding to meet the 7 candidates and to listen to their vision for the QVFund if elected. The first observation was the diversity of the group as it contained 4 ladies and 3 gentlemen who have thrown their Hat or Bonnet into the election ring. Next was the average Age of the candidates. The Fund has strived to attract younger residents to participate in the process which controls the many aspects of how our homes and neighborhoods are maintained. Based on this group of candidates it appears they have been successful in meeting this goal. This “youth” movement, which includes several second generation residents, introduced several aspects of governance which they believe are important when meeting the goals and charter of the QVF HOA. Among these is the expansion of the use of technology when managing and communicating the many responsibilities of the HOA. Also included in their assessment was the importance of schools in our area and their educational standing when attracting and retaining current and prospective homeowners. The status of bringing Amenities to the neighborhood and their outlook for the future of

Emery these was another element introduced. I would add here however that the “quality” of candidates should not be determined only by one’s age but must also include the experience and background of the candidate. Included in this group of candidates are residents with extensive experience and who share many of the same goals as articulated by the younger candidates. They deserve equal consideration when deciding who to vote for in this election. Finally, the element of “civility” in the election process can also promote apathy in the electorate. Unlike what we are currently experiencing on the World and State political stage the level of respect displayed by the candidates

for each other was truly refreshing. Among the candidates there was acknowledgement and support of positions espoused by other candidates. This display toward each others position was reason for hope and that civility may still be alive. The Fund has worked hard to provide its members with quality candidates. However this is where the rubber meets the road. If we are to move hope to reality it is incumbent on all members of the QVF HOA to get off of the couch and away from the TV and get involved in this election process. This will require that we do the hard work of knowing the issues and which candidates are best suited to meet these challenges. Some may say that the election of Board members for an HOA is not an election of importance. I would respectfully submit that governance at the local level, which has a direct impact on how we manage our neighborhoods and its impact on our home values, is very important. Look for your ballot in the mail and vote in this important election. Floyd Emery is a Quail Valley Fund member.

CITY OF SUGAR LAND FIELD OPERATIONS MANAGER – Utilities Department The primary responsibilities of this position are to monitor and implement programs to assure water distribution and wastewater collection systems are maintained through preventive maintenance and timely repair, minimizing any interruptions in service or supplies to our customers. Directly responsible for the field supervisors over repair crews, customer service employees and maintenance. Qualifications include: •Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Construction Management or field from an accredited school or university. Significant direct experience may be substituted for degree. •Five years of progressively responsible experience in a Construction Management, Engineering, or related discipline. •Municipal experience preferred. •Texas Class C driver’s license. •TCEQ C Water Distribution or ability to obtain within two years. •TCEQ Class II Wastewater Collection or ability to obtain within one year. Salary: $51,667 annual DOQ + excellent benefits. A City of Sugar Land online employment application MUST be completed in its entirety by the deadline Friday, March 4, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. Please visit our website at www.sugarlandtx.gov for specific details and to apply.

MARCH 2, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ Page 5

Nacogdoches man finds heroes close to home at Methodist Sugar Land When the results from Kenneth Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood work came in, his doctor knew immediately that Kenneth was headed towards kidney failure. The doctor also knew he couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t treat Kenneth; not because he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the knowledge, but because he practices in Nacogdoches, Texas, where there is no hospital equipped to perform kidney transplants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was given lots of options,â&#x20AC;? says King, a Nacogdoches County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Investigator. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are transplant clinics in Tyler and Shreveport that are each less Kenneth King, Angie King and Horacio E. Adrogue, M.D. than 60 miles away, but my doctor strongly recommend- ics in the community to better ful financial coordinator. ed The Methodist Hospital serve transplant patients. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The He took over with the insurSystem. After researching a Methodist Sugar Land Clinic ance company and told us we number of facilities, just by is able to start evaluations for didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to worry. The one the sheer number of trans- patients with any kind of or- thing that remained the same plants Methodist does and gan failure, and Methodist is throughout our experience at the positive outcomes, I knew the only program in Houston Methodistâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the patient was Methodist is where I needed with this type of clinic,â&#x20AC;? says always the first priority.â&#x20AC;? When the day of surgery Dr. Adrogue. to be.â&#x20AC;? arrived, Angie went in first, â&#x20AC;&#x153;From the minute I walked So Kenneth and his wife, followed a few hours later through the doors at MethodAngie, and nephew, Steven, by Kenneth, but they were ist Sugar Land, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have loaded up their truck and side by side in the recovery asked for better care,â&#x20AC;? says made the two and a half hour room. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The nurses wheeled King. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The facility is so welldrive to Methodist Sugar Land my gurney next to his so we maintained and so clean, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital and its new Transcould see each other,â&#x20AC;? recalls just amazing. I also couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t plant Clinic, which provides pre-transplant evaluation for have asked for a better doctor. Angie. After two days in the hospipatients with organ failure. There are a lot of similarities tal for Angie and three days for between me and Dr. Adrogue; Both Angie and Steven had Kenneth, the pair went home we are both about the same volunteered to be donors and to their new Houston apartage and we are both very agwould now undergo rigorous ment. Now the anxiety ridden gressive in our jobs. He told testing to see if either would stage of the process began â&#x20AC;&#x201C; me right away that, with two be compatible for Kenneth. making sure Kennethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body potential donors, we needed to â&#x20AC;&#x153;All along I knew it was didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reject Angieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kidney. go ahead and plan for a transgoing to be me,â&#x20AC;? says Angie King, wife and mother to the plant while I was still strong But Kennethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body not only accepted the new kidney, he coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three children. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ev- â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the sooner, the better.â&#x20AC;? also recovered more quickly As if Angie had willed it, eryone else was convinced than expected and was able she turned out to be a good that Steven would be the best to leave for Nacogdoches a match for Kenneth. The Namatch since he is a blood month sooner than doctors cogdoches family headed relative, but there was never planned. home, packed up clothes and a doubt in my mind that it â&#x20AC;&#x153;We still have to make the drove to a new apartment in would be me donating a kidalmost 150-mile trek here for Houston where they would ney to my husband.â&#x20AC;? follow up visits, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really be spending the next month While testing was being not that bad when you think following the surgeries. Howdone on Angie and Steven at about all that I have gained,â&#x20AC;? ever, there was one hitch in The Methodist Hospital in the says Kenneth. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell you the plan. Texas Medical Center, Kenhow grateful I am to the staff â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were worried about neth had his own series of and medical professionals of following through with the tests completed at MethodMethodist. In fact, I sent my insurance company since we ist Sugar Land Hospital. His first stop was to meet his new were both about to go into dad down here for surgery doctor, Horacio E. Adrogue, surgery,â&#x20AC;? says Angie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But when he needed a knee reM.D., a second generation the great thing was that Meth- placement. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m telling you, transplant nephrologist on odist Sugar Land was able to even the cafeteria is great!â&#x20AC;? As far as how Kenneth staff at Methodist Sugar Land help with this as well, which feels about his wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gift, he really left me with the ability Hospital and the Pancreas says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a man and as a husto solely focus on me and my Transplant program Medical band, you expect to take care husband. It was a wonderful Director. Dr. Adrogue is also of your wife, not the other experience; we had been asthe Medical Director of the way around. But sometimes, signed to a whole team â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Methodist Transplant Netyour heroes are closer than social worker, an RN, a team work, which has a goal to creyou think.â&#x20AC;? of doctors and our wonderate transplant evaluation clin-

Sugar Land Democrats discuss immigration

Steve Brown, Chair, Fort Bend County Democratic Party, Carlos A. Garcia FBC Democratic Party Secretary, Dist. 27 State Rep. Ron Reynolds and Gordon Quan. The Sugar Land Democrats Club held their second 2011 educational forum series with a discussion on immigration issues. Gordon Quan, immigration attorney and founder of Foster Quan Immigration Law Firm, said that the benefits to the Texas economy by the immigrant workforce outweighed the social costs in healthcare and education for the immigrants and their families. State Rep. Ron Reynolds

gave a briefing on all of the anti-immigration bills filed in the state Legislature by Republicans. Reynolds said that one Republican state representative from the Houston area camped out two days before the first day of the opening session of the legislature so that she could be one of the first to file an anti-immigration bill. The majority of people at the Immigration Forum expressed opinions wanting the

U.S. government to establish a path to citizenship for the 10 million plus undocumented workers in the country. Sugar Land Co-Chair Deron Patterson reminded everyone that Jesus Christ was an immigrant in the land of Egypt as his parents sought asylum when he was just a baby, thusly, let all of us welcome the immigrant from abroad as did Egypt to Joseph, Mary, and their child Jesus. On Saturday, March 12,

AUTOMOBILE: Chevrolet Cruze By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Chevrolet Cruze fourdoor compact is new for 2011. Four out of the five Cruze models are powered by a 1.4-liter four cylinder turbo charged engine with variable valve timing that gets as much as 40 miles to the gallon on the highway. The engine makes 138 horsepower and 148. lb.ft. of torque. The Cruze has come to America after having already sold well in Europe and Asia. For a compact it provides a quiet cabin, premium materials throughout the interior, attention to detail and improved tolerances between body panels, which contribute significantly to the Cruzeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall refinement. While the Cruze is new to the U.S. it had logged more than four million miles in quality and durability tests worldwide, which makes it the most real world tested GM product prior to its U.S. launch. The Cruze had also gotten five-star safety ratings in every market itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sold in including the U.S. where it has both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety top ratings. The Cruze comes in four models. The LS is the entry level Cruze and with all standard equipment retails for $16,995. Next in the lineup is the 1LT for $18,895; the Cruze 2LT, at $21,395; the Eco at $18,895, and the top-of-theline LTZ for $22,695. Standard equipment on the LS models includes a 1.8-liter four cylinder motor paired to a six-speed manual transmission, 10 air bags, electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, antilock brakes, collapsible pedal system, power rear-door child safety locks, OnStar with a six-month subscription and turn by turn navigation, A/C, power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, driver information center, auxiliary jack for playback devices and XM Satellite Radio with a three-month sub-

* Chevrolet Cruze named Urban Car of the Year by automotive journalists * Cruze Eco achieves segment leading 42 mpg on the highway * Cruze top choice over Civic and Corolla in HGTV.comâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Car Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Challengeâ&#x20AC;? scription. The LT gets all of the above standard equipment and the 1.4-liter turbo engine and 16 inch wheels; the Cruze 2LT, comes standard with a sixway power driver seat, leather, heated seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and remote vehicle start. The Eco travels on 17-inch alloy wheels and has an enhanced aerodynamic performance package. In keeping with its model name this Cruze gets an estimated 26 miles to the gallon in city driving and 36 on the highway. The top of the line Cruze LTZ comes standard with all of the above plus automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, ultrasonic rear-parking assist and 18-inch alloy wheels with four-wheel disc brakes. Miles per gallon for this model with the 1.4 -liter Ecotec engine and dual overhead four cycle turbo is 24 in the city and 36 on the highway.

The RS appearance package, which is available on the LT and LTZ models for $695, includes unique front and rear fascias, rocker moldings, front fog lamps and rear spoiler. Available options on the Cruze are an in-dash navigation system with 40-gig hard drive, a Pioneer audio system with nine speakers and a 250watt amplifier and ultrasonic rear park assist. The Chevy Cruze design starts with a bold face including a two-tier grill with the iconic Bowtie logo that is Chevroletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature look around the globe. An arching roofline connects to a steeply raked windshield and fast sloping rear pillars to give the car a sporty, coupe like proportion. Inside the Cruzeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instruments are backlit with lightemitting diode (LED) technology. The LED lights provide a crisp, ice-blue illumination of the analog instruments as well as lighting for other interior controls. Along with a responsive driving experience, the Chevy Cruze delivers quietness and refinement on the road. A MacPherson strut suspension is used up front while an advanced Z-link design is used in the rear. The result is a more comfortable ride, reduced road noise and isolation from vibration. If you are in the market for a compact sedan with a sporty design, do test drive the Chevrolet Cruze. You may just take it home.

Sugar Land opens Riverstone water treatment plant Sugar Land recently opened a new water treatment plant located in the Riverstone subdivision. The plant is the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh ground water production facility designed to produce up to 3 million gallons of water per day -- approximately 7 percent of the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total production capacity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The additional capacity is important to meet the future water supply needs of Riverstone; however, an additional benefit to current customers will be increased water pressure in the existing system,â&#x20AC;? said Director of Utilities SuEllen Staggs. The plant includes one well, three booster pumps, a largescale generator and a concrete ground storage tank, a first in the City. The concrete storage tank was chosen because it is designed to provide 50 years of service with minimal maintenance. Riverstone is currently in the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

A strategic partnership agreement with the developer, Johnson Development, requires Sugar Land to provide water production and wastewater treatment for

Terry has just joined the NewFirst team! NewFirst is pleased to announce the addition of Terry Crockett to our Commercial Lending team. Terry brings with him 20 years of unmatched banking experience and community leadership in Fort Bend County. From truly personal service to a vast DUUD\ RI ÂżQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV 1HZ)LUVW is independent banking at its best. Our 109 year history along with team members such as Terry help NewFirst to continue to be a leader in our markets.

Terry Crockett Vice President

10:30 a.m to 12 p.m. Sugar Land Democrats Club will have a forum on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Building Energy Efficient and Sustainable â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Greenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Buildings/Homes and Communitiesâ&#x20AC;? at First Colony Library at 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land. Keynote speaker will be Ms. LoraMarie Bernard, Executive Director of US Green Building Council Houston Chapter.

Riverstoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s municipal utility districts. The water treatment plant was constructed through a partnership between Johnson Development and the City.

Whether you have banking needs or just want to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;Welcomeâ&#x20AC;?, call Terry at 832-344-2036 or come by our Rosenberg location at 2214 Avenue H.

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Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 2, 2011 LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION FORT BEND COUNTY

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. Mar. 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. GOOD CONDITION ONLY books, CD’s, DVD’s may be donated during regular library hours or at the sale and are tax deductible. Children’s items are especially needed. Call 281-416-0936 for more information.

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, MARCH 17, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. BID 11-053 – ROAD MATERIAL – EARTHEN TYPE Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are not required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING To be published One Time Only March 2, 2011

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING To be published One Time Only March 02, 2011 LOCATION/DATE: The City Council of the City of Missouri City will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 21, 2011, at the City Council Chambers – 2nd Floor, City Hall Building, 1522 Texas Parkway (FM-2234), Missouri City, Texas at 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION/DATE: The City Council of the City of Missouri City will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 21, 2011, at the City Council Chambers – 2nd Floor, City Hall Building, 1522 Texas Parkway (FM-2234), Missouri City, Texas at 7:00 p.m.

PURPOSE: To receive comments for or against a request by David Petrakovitz of T-Mobile West Corporation on behalf of Global Geophysical Services, Inc. to amend Planned Development District #58 (O-06-43) to allow for the construction of a 140 ft. telecommunications tower and associated equipment.

PURPOSE: To receive comments for or against a request by Mahesh Wadhwa of Wadhwa and Associates on behalf of Mara-Natha Full Gospel church of Dallas for a Specific Use Permit to locate a religious place of assembly on a tract of land currently zoned LC-2, Local Retail District.

SITE LOCATION: The subject site is located southeast of the intersection of South Gessner and Pike Road at 13927 S. Gessner Rd.

SITE LOCATION: The subject site is located north of the Asian American Baptist Church of Houston, south of the Quail Valley town Center, east of the Cornerstone Baptist Church of Missouri City and west of the Missouri City Tennis and Recreation Center at 2714A and 2716 Cypress Point Dr.

SITE LEGAL DESCRIPTION: The subject site can be described as being all of Reserve “A” of Global Geophysical Industrial Park, recorded in Fort Bend County Clerk’s File Number 20060274, save and except the area within the drainage easement, owned in fee by Fort Bend County, as shown in the subdivision plat of the South Gessner Road Street Dedication of record in Slide Numbers 944B, 945A, 945B and 946A of the Plat Records of Fort Bend county, Texas. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Additional information and a map of the subject site are available for review at City Hall, Missouri City, Texas on Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may call 281-403-8600 or email the Planning Department at planninginfo@missouricitytx.gov for further information.

SITE LEGAL DESCRIPTION: The subject site can be described as being a 1.092 acre tract of land; 0.1326 of an acre tract of land; and 0.09 of an acre access easement in Reserve “N-B” of Quail Valley Subdivision, La Quinta Section Recorded in Volume 8, Page 5 of the Plat Records of Fort Bend County, Texas, conveyed to First Bank in a substitute trustee’s deed recorded in the deed records of Fort Bend County, Texas, as File Number 2010108791. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Additional information and a map of the subject site are available for review at City Hall, Missouri City, Texas on Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may call 281-4038600 or email the Planning Department at planninginfo@missouricitytx.gov for further information.

Registration and viewing of all items will begin Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 8:00 AM. The auction will begin at 10:00 AM. All items must be removed from auction site by 4:00 PM on auction day. All sales are final. All purchases must be paid in full on the day of sale by credit card (Master Card and Visa only), cash, personal check with a bank letter of guarantee, cashier’s check with a bank letter of guarantee, or company check with a bank letter of guarantee. Absolutely no checks accepted without a bank letter of guarantee.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Texas

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SPECIAL EXCEPTION 3103 POPLAR PLACE

SPECIAL EXCEPTION 3319 OAKMONT DRIVE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 3103 POPLAR PLACE, LOT 20, BLOCK 4, STEPHENS GRANT SUBDIVISION, IN THE STANDARD SINGLE-FAMILY (R-1) RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 3319 OAKMONT DRIVE, LOT 9, BLOCK 2, FIRST COLONY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 5 PARCEL J-1 (ALCORN BEND I), IN THE STANDARD SINGLE-FAMILY (R-1) RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT

PURPOSE:

ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUEST SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD.

PURPOSE:

WHERE:

CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH

WHERE:

CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH

WHEN:

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 5:00 P.M., MARCH 16, 2011

WHEN:

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 5:00 P.M., MARCH 16, 2011

ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUEST SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD.

DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND PLANNING OFFICE, TELEPHONE (281) 275-2218 OR EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. THE PLANNING OFFICE IS OPEN MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 8:00 O’CLOCK A.M. TO 5:00 O’CLOCK P.M., AND IS LOCATED IN CITY HALL, 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS. PLEASE CONTACT US IF YOU WISH TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO GO OVER ADDITIONAL DETAILS IN PERSON.

Vicinity Map:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SPECIAL EXCEPTION 1914 COUNTRY CLUB BOULEVARD

SPECIAL EXCEPTION 4010 MOUNT VERNON AVENUE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 1914 COUNTRY CLUB BOULEVARD, LOT 31, BLOCK 4, SUGAR CREEK SECTION 24, IN THE RESTRICTED SINGLE-FAMILY (R-1R) RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 4010 MOUNT VERNON AVENUE, LOT 3, BLOCK 3, SWEETWATER SECTION 4, IN THE RESTRICTED SINGLE-FAMILY (R1R) RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT

PURPOSE:

ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUEST SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD.

PURPOSE:

ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUEST SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD.

WHERE:

CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH

WHERE:

CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH

WHEN:

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. on request for vacation of plat titled Aliana Binion Lane Cloudy Mills Road to West Airport STD located in Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, 309 South Fourth St., Suite 700, William B. Travis Bldg., Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter. Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Rose Ranch Section 1, Precinct 1. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, 309 South Fourth St., Suite 700, William B. Travis Bldg., Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter. Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Middlesprings Lane West of Spring Green Boulevard Street Dedication and Spring Green Boulevard at Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, 309 South Fourth St., Suite 700, William B. Travis Bldg., Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter. Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 5:00 P.M., MARCH 16, 2011

Items to be sold: 26-Ford Crown Victoria’s (2000-2010), 4-Chevrolet Impala’s (2001-2003), 1-Jeep Cherokee (1997, 1-Ford Taurus (2001), 3-Chevrolet Lumina’s, 1-Ford Taurus, 1-GMC Yukon, 1-GMC Suburban, 1-Ford Ranger (salvage only), 4-1/2 ton pickup trucks, 8-3/4 ton pickup trucks, 1-1 ton pickup truck, 2-Astro vans, fork lift, 6-8 yard dump truck, Ingram steel wheel roller, John Deere 6200 tractor, Rhino FL15 shredder, Rhino Magnum 684 flexwing shredder, Cat 120G motor grader, Case 590 backhoe, Ford 2WD tractor with bucket, International 5230 tractor, Ford 6640 tractor, Gemini auto lift and Bradco 650 trencher.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to add or delete items from the auction. Items offered for sale are sold as is where is and without warranty.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WHEN:

The County Purchasing Agent of Fort Bend County will conduct a PUBLIC AUCTION for SURPLUS AND SALVAGE PROPERTY on SATURDAY, MARCH 5, 2011 AT 10:00 AM. The auction will be held at the Fort Bend County Needville Purchasing satellite office located at 9110 Long Street, Needville, Texas.

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 5:00 P.M., MARCH 16, 2011

Vicinity Map:

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. BID 11-051 – FUSION IMAGE INTENSIFICATION THERMAL SYSTEM Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are not required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. BID 11-031 – CONSTRUCTION OF BARKER PARK PRE-FABRICATED CONCESSION STAND A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 9:00 AM (CST). The pre-bid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Rosenberg Annex at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas 77471. All bidders are encouraged to attend. Lump sum pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

CITATION BY PUBLICATION D\vORCE The State of Texas TO: Randal Jones 12603 Claygate Houston TX 77045, and to all whom it may concern, Respondent GREETINGS: 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The Original Petition for Divorce of Dawn Critchlow, Petitioners, was filed in the 387th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on the October 20, 2010 against Randal Jones, Respondent, being numbered 10-DCV-184967, and entitled In the Matter of the Marriage of Dawn Critchlow and Randal Jones. The suit requests to dissolve the bonds of matrimony. The court has authority in this suit to enter any jUdgment or decree dissolving the marriage and providing for the division of property which will be binding on you. Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 21st day of February, 2011. Petitioner’s Attorney: Dawn Critchlow 1222 Beechbend Missouri City TX 77489 713-792-7587 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas Deputy District Clerk Daisy Telephone: 281-633-7620

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, MARCH 17, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. RFP 11-050 – JANITORIAL SERVICE AT JUSTICE CENTER A mandatory pre-RFP conference with site visit will be conducted on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 3:30 PM (CST). The conference will be held on the first floor of the Parking Garage located next to the Justice Center at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX. All qualified vendors are encouraged to attend. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are not required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. RFP 11-030 – BARKER PARK BASEBALL FIELD LIGHTING A pre-RFP conference will be conducted on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 9:30 AM (CST) with site visit to follow. The pre-RFP conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Rosenberg Annex at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas 77471. All bidders are encouraged to attend. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

MARCH 2, 2011 • INDEPENDENT • Page 7

Interior designers showcase homes in Sienna Take a rustic, Hill Countrythemed million dollar home, add state-of-the-art technology, fine art and a renowned custom builder plus twenty professional interior designers, and what do you get? An exquisite, one-of-akind, must-see show home, or as Sienna Plantation, Fort Bend’s premiere MasterPlanned Community by Johnson Development, calls it – the ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) Show Home Designing with the Stars. The extraordinary project, the ASID Show Home Designing with the Stars, selected Sienna Plantation’s exclusive The Sanctuary at Water’s Lake, a gated community featuring only 12 home sites on one-half to half-acre properties. “Being selected as the site for the ASID Show Home Designing with the Stars project is an extraordinary opportunity,” said Susie Goff, Marketing Director for Sienna Plantation. “The project truly showcases the best of the best with every room being an adventure, which compliments perfectly the quality lifestyle that we have created in Sienna Plantation.”

The Home Team The 5,944 square foot home, listed for $1,350,000, is being built by Regan Custom Homes, a custom homebuilder who has built in the greater Houston area for over 15 years. “The extraordinary quality associated with ASID’s showcase homes is well-known to both home buyers and the custom homebuilding industry,” said Shawn Regan, CEO of Regan Custom Homes. “Being selected to be part of the ASID team is a privilege, and we are thrilled to have this unique opportunity to exhibit our excellence and abilities in custom homebuilding to help create a truly remarkable showcase home.” Debuting April 1st and open through April 17th for tours, the Hill Country inspired home is being custom designed by professional ASID interior designers – twenty, in fact. These designers, recruited by ASID, are the best of the best and they have pulled out all of the stops to create a unique, show stopper for this year’s showcase home. The house has been divided into twenty areas and each designer has been designated an area to showcase their talents. Though the designers are working with one central theme – the Hill Country – each designer has put their own personal touch to create a home that is beautiful, multi-functional and contains the latest technology.

State-of-the-Art Technology The ASID Show Home Designing with the Stars project has been a sixteen-month labor of love that has continually developed with the homebuilder and designers working hand in hand to create both aesthetically pleasing and functional features to create a true million dollar showcase home. And, there is no room where that is more evident than the kitchen! With multiple, high-end amenities featuring everything a cook will need to prepare a gourmet meal effortlessly, the kitchen is the show stopper in this home. Alder wood distressed cabinets custom designed by Benedettini Cabinets add to the Hill Country feel of the home and the appliances are every chef’s dream: a 60” ProStyle, Dual-Fuel Gas Range with six dual-stacked sealed burners, dual convection ovens and an infrared griddle/

charbroiler, a Wolf Stainless Steel 30” Drawer Microwave Oven, a Sub-Zero 400 Series 27” Wine Storage Refrigerator with a capacity for 78 bottles and a Miele Built-In Coffee Bean System with dual dispensing sprouts, grinder bypass and pre-brew and frothing systems. The island features a Sub Zero icemaker and freezer drawers, and a 36” Sub Zero refrigerator is featured in the kitchen along with a Miele 24” Convection Steam Stainless Steel oven. Just one of the state-of-theart design elements and technology included in the home is a custom lighting system by Lutron. Lutron builds a system based on a radio controlled master system that can do everything from turn on your lights and ceiling fans to opening and closing your blinds. And, best of all, the ASID Show Home Designing with the Stars will feature a state-of-the-art Lutron system – the newest element in home safety. In order to create energy efficiency, a better indoor air quality and true temperatures within the home, the air conditioning unit has been upgraded with two speed furnace programmable thermostats complete with humidistats and media filters. The master suite is a sanctuary fit for a king or a queen. With floor to ceiling windows and a private entrance to the veranda, the design is a balance of clean, rustic materials with a twist of modern technology to create a soothing spa experience. Featuring a DTV® II shower designed to elevate the experience of showering with approachable, intuitive technology, the technology allows the user convenient control of the menu-based navigation system that includes six user presets and integrated controls of KOHLER steam, audio, lighting and chromatherapy. To further enhance the spalike environment, a water tile ambience rain shower panel adds a dynamic, moving and changing visual dimension to the shower with color sequences in natural themes such as sunrise, sunset, sunny clouds and water reflection. And, with a simple connection from your computer or MP3 player, music selections can be cued to compliment your shower singing. The shower allows for preset steam for preferred temperature and duration for a uniquely personal, spa-like experience. The technology adventure continues in the show home that features a state-of-the-art theatre with built-in soundboards on all of the walls to enhance the acoustics. Beautiful, custom paneling adorn the walls, along with columns featuring sconces and built-in, custom wood cabinetry to create a plush, theatrestyle feel. In addition to the theatre, the house features an adjacent music room. The music room features a cork floor, perfect for sound insulation, and cellulose insulation material to allow for a better energy rating.

Top-of-the-Line Features The downstairs floor plan of the showcase home includes a bedroom suite built to ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliant specifications designed to provide the homeowner with multiple options. Whether the homeowner is caring for an elderly family member, a small child or an individual with special needs, the bottom floor and one downstairs bedroom and bathroom is ADA accessible and compliant. To enhance the Hill Country theme of the house, the custom trim inside the home is detailed and hand-made. There are shiplap ceilings, cedar columns, corbels, and pecan and zebra wood built-ins. The great room, as well as the adjoining kitchen, feature Alder distressed wood cabinetry that reinforces the Hill Country theme within the home. Finally, slate and stone for the tile selections complete the Hill Country look. Located on the 18th hole of the Sienna Golf Course, the house features a summer kitchen and outdoor fireplace on an expansive veranda. The veranda features an outdoor living room with a flat screen television, a bar and stainless steel grill. The backyard oasis features a pool by Encore that is 40’ long, contains three sparkling water features flowing from the pool wall and features a

sun shelf for sun bathing on those hot, Texas days. The pool deck is made of natural stone and the spa, elevated above the pool level, features hydrotherapy jets. The outside features limestone and a metal roof, and a water feature created for the front porch serves as a serene welcome to guests. The ASID House Designing with the Stars will be open to the public for touring Saturday, April 1through Sunday, April 17. Proceeds from the tour benefit Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital and the ASID Scholarship Fund. Groups interested in touring the showcase house have an opportunity to purchase tickets that include a private seminar with an ASID designer or industry partner. The cost is $15 per person, and the seminars can be tailored to specific interests including designing for young children or children with special needs, landscaping concepts, lighting and home security, as well as many other topics. Perfect for monthly meetings or even a fundraiser, groups can bring in food and beverages. For more information about group tours and private seminars, contact Kelly Buettner at kellybuettner@comcast.net. For more information about the ASID House Designing with the Stars project or to purchase tickets, visit www. siennaplantation.com.

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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 2, 2011

School zoning protest

Founders Bank merges with Vista Vista Bank Texas (“Vista”) and Founders Bank (“Founders”), jointly announced on Feb. 16 the signing of a definitive merger agreement which has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both banks. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Founders will merge into Vista, with depositors of Founders becoming depositors of Vista, according to a press release. Upon completion of the merger, shareholders of Founders will receive shares of common stock of VB Texas, Inc. (Vista’s parent company) and three Founders directors will join the board of directors of each of VB Texas and Vista. The merger agreement and the related merger transaction are subject to customary regulatory approvals and the approval of Founders’ shareholders. “We are excited about the prospects of community banking in Houston, Texas. We believe that combining two well-positioned community banks in the market will provide our customers, shareholders and employees with additional strength and growth opportunities. Vista does not currently have a presence in Sugar Land and Founders has gained an outstanding reputation in the Fort Bend community, which we believe gives the combined bank strength to continue to gain market share in the future,” said Robert R. Franklin, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Vista Bank Texas. Jim Sturgeon, Founders President and CEO, who will become Vice Chairman of VB Texas and Vista upon the completion of the transaction said, “Our Board of Directors chose to become part of

Vista because of the shared values and vision of both of our organizations. We recognized that to continue to meet our customer and shareholder expectations would require more branches and a greater array of products, both of which this merger provides. We value relationship banking and are proud of the fact that both of our institutions are dedicated to providing the best banking experience.” Vista’s Franklin noted “With the dramatic changes occurring in the banking industry, we think this merger is an excellent opportunity for both banks. Additionally, with increasing regulatory requirements including higher capital levels, we believe more growth-oriented combinations like this will take place in the near future. The addition of Founders is both accretive and strategic to Vista and we will continue to look for strategic acquisitions in the future, along with the possibility of additional de novo branch offices as opportunities arise.” The combined bank will have 7 branches that extend from FM 1960 in the north to Wharton, Texas in the south. Vista Bank Texas is a Houston based community bank with 6 locations. The bank traces its lineage back to 1971 and entered the Houston market when the current Houston management team and shareholders purchased Commercial State Bank of Boling, Texas. Vista is highly experienced in working with both personal, professional and commercial clients to develop financial packages and services best suited to meet their needs. Learn more at www.vbtexas.com.

Founders Bank is a three year old Fort Bend owned and managed bank, with the goal of being “the best bank ever.” The bank takes its name from a “founders group” of Fort Bend business people and community leaders who served as the driving force behind the institution’s organization. Founders Bank is focused on serving the local community, with a special emphasis on small business and healthcare. Learn more at www.foundersbanktx.com.

Lake Colony, Heritage Colony, and Riverstone (North of University Boulevard) neighborhoods will hold a protest between the entrances of Lake Colony and Riverstone along Highway 6 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on March 5. Parents, students, and concerned citizens will be standing along the highway and holding signs to inform passerbys of the pending school rezoning vote and to send a message to the FBISD Board of Trustees that they oppose the plan. These neighborhoods oppose the proposed school rezoning under Option Three.

These neighborhoods argue that the rezoning will not alleviate overcrowding problems facing FBISD Schools in that overcrowding is merely shifted from Clements High School to Elkins High School. Lake Colony spokesman Bart Evans asserts that the plan violates many of the board’s zoning principles publicized on the FBISD Website. Riverstone (North of University Blvd) Spokesman Rama Manne argues that this is the wrong plan, wrong time, and wrong strategy considering that other priorities should first be addressed by FBISD, such as the huge budget short-

fall. The school board is scheduled to meet and vote on the zoning plan on March 7. Major rezoning is inevitable next year. So far, the board has dropped proposals which drew wide criticism from parents. If the board made no change to this part of the zoning now Clements would continue to be overcrowded, just as many other campuses are over crowded. Similarly, many campuses will remain below capacity. The question remains whether the board would yield to this group of neighborhoods as it did for others.

Want to know where to eat out in Missouri City? When taking the family out to eat, how can you choose the cleanest restaurants in Missouri City? Just check the scores. All restaurants and food establishments in the City are inspected twice a year and must post their scores in public view. During the Feb. 21 City Council meeting, 21 local restaurants that were inspected in the last six months were recognized for earning the “Clean Restaurant Award.” Another round of inspections for other City restaurants will take place during the next six months. A complete list of “Restaurant Scores” can be found on the City’s website, missouricitytx.gov, under “Quick Links” on the homepage. The list is updated weekly. The 21 businesses that were recently saluted received excellent scores during routine inspections by the City’s health inspector. Each one scored a 95 or above and had no critical violations. The winners and their scores

are: *Chef Rey’s, 2865 Dulles Ave. (100; first-time winner) *Fryday’s Sports Grill, 3760 Cartwright Rd. (100; first-time winner) *Fun Tiki Family Entertainment, 3310 Murphy Rd. (100; second win since 2008) *Grace’s Cafe, 1909 Texas Pkwy. (100; fifth win since 2004) *Kolache Factory, 6215 Hwy. 6 (100; first-time winner) *La Escondida, 7270 Hwy. 6, Ste. 500 (100; first-time winner) *Tokyo Gardens Catering, LLC., 4724 Hwy. 6 (100; firsttime winner) *Bricks Burgers, 6250 Hwy. 6 (97; first-time winner) *Burger King, 1254 Murphy Rd. (97; first-time winner) *Chick-Fil-A, 6124 Hwy. 6, (97; ninth win since 2004) *Edible Arrangements, 8740 Hwy. 6, Ste. 110 (97; first-time winner) *Kenshin Sushi, 4751 Hwy. 6 (97; tenth win since 2004) *Pierson’s Cajun & Country Cafe, 3843 Cartwright Rd. (97;

first-time winner) *QQ China Cafe, 10330 Hwy. 6 (97; first-time winner) *Smoothie Factory, 5330 Hwy. 6, Ste. 116 (97; third win since 2006) *Russo’s, 10350 Hwy. 6 (97; first-time winner) *Star Snow Ice, 4713 Hwy. 6 (97; third win since 2006) *Carino’s Italian Grill, 5750 Hwy. 6 (96; eighth win since 2005) *Pepperoni’s Sienna, 4225 Sienna Pkwy. (96; ninth win since 2004) *Einstein Bros. Bagels, 6261 Hwy. 6 (95; first-time winner) *Whataburger, 8820 Hwy. 6 (95; first-time winner) “Congratulations!” Mayor Allen Owen told the restaurant owners and managers on behalf of City Council. “You are all committed to maintaining clean restaurants and earning an ‘A’ on your door to encourage residents to come back.” Restaurant scores are based on a 100 point system and letter graded similar to an academic grading system.

An “A” grade is best and means the restaurant is very knowledgeable of food safety and cleanliness, followed by “Bs and Cs.” If a restaurant scores below 70, a number grade is given. Additionally, restaurants are allowed an owner-initiated inspection once a year that gives them a chance to improve their score. The restaurant owner can request and must pay for that inspection. “The food handler is the most important criteria to look at when conducting an inspection, in addition to a clean restaurant. Floors, walls and ceilings will not generally make you sick, but the person handling your food can” said Missouri City Health Inspector Twala Bezue. “The second thing is the general cleanliness of the restaurant and the sanitation practices.” When conducting inspections, Bezue also checks to make sure that food is kept at the proper temperature at all times in the preparation process.

beneﬁtting

ENTER TO WIN A DAY IN DESIGN INSPIRATION at the Houston Design Center. go to siennaplantation.com for more information and to buy tickets on line. 20 American Society of Interior Designers have come together to create a one-of-a-kind show home in Sienna Plantation. Fully furnished and loaded with new ideas, design and state-of-the-art appliances and technology features. Tickets are $15 at the door or www.siennaplantation.com Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 am to 4pm and Sunday from noon to 4pm. Private group tours and mini seminars featuring the ASID designer team are available. Check the website for details. When you are in Sienna to see the ASID show home—stay and tour 11 more beautifully furnished model homes. Maps will be available.

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