Fort Bend Independent

VOL 3 No. 36

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com ww .fbindependent.com

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Sugar Land

Tracy Lee Stum’s 3D masterpiece The art of internationally acclaimed Tracy Lee Stum transports visitors to a world where trains and sharks lunge into the sky and tigers float above the ground on towering totems. In early October, this world of grand illusion arrives in Riverstone.

Considered one of the world’s foremost street artists, Stum will create a new 3D masterpiece in a newly completed multi-million dollar estate by Sterling Classic Homes in Riverstone, a Johnson Development masterplanned community in Fort Bend County.

Stum’s work will launch a 12-day showcase of the home, with visitors able to watch the artist create her illusion from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 6-8. Those not able to see the artist in person can still view the artwork as the showcase continues from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 9-17. Tickets for both time periods are $5 each.

Bring your cameras.

Visitors to the event are encouraged to pose with and take pictures of Stum’s Riverstone waterfall and cliff creation.

The first 250 people purchasing tickets will be able to attend a VIP event, Artful Living, 7 p.m. on October 8.

During the event, fashion and home décor will be added to the artistic mix, with Neiman Marcus showcasing samples of the latest design trends.

Stum will be present to add

the finishing touches to her artwork and mingle with guests.

Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to take pictures and amaze their friends.

Tickets to this special event are $75 and include a copy of Neiman’s treasured ‘Book’.

The 3D art showcase and Artful Living party are part of The Grand Soiree, the first-annual month-long collection of stylish events hosted throughout Fort Bend and Houston.

Introduced to street painting while in Europe studying art at the Florence Academy of Art in Italy, Stum began her foray into the medium in 1998 after attending the Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival in Santa Barbara, Calif.

The Grand Soiree spotlights Houston and Fort Bend’s finest in 10 events hosted from Sept.

25 through Oct. 27.

For more information, visit www.TheGrandSoiree.com.

‘Won’t make promises we can’t keep,’ says Olson

By SESHADRI KUMAR Washington does not listen is the most common complaint of people today.

“Before making promises, we are trying to get people’s input,” says U.S. Rep. Pete Olson, (R-Dist. 22) from Sugar Land.

People are concerned about the growth in government and lack of transparency.

“If we get a majority in the House, we won’t make promises that we can’t keep,” Olson says.

Olson acknowledges that many Republican constituents want the healthcare bill repealed, but his response is tempered with practical wisdom.

To repeal the healthcare bill, Republicans need a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate. Otherwise, President Obama will veto the bill, he says.

“We will have the power of the purse. Let us discuss healthcare and de-fund it,” he adds.

Conservatives are not happy with their party leaders because there is no concrete document like the 1992 Contract with America produced by former speaker Newt Gingrich.

Olson says such a document is in the works and the GOP will release it shortly.

While the specifics of the document are not yet known, Olson believes the message would reinforce fiscal discipline and ensure that the government spends only what it takes in. An open and transparent administration will be another promise.

Entitlement programs need to be pruned and they are unsustainable at current level. Ol-

Olson son says he has an open mind on this issue.

“We can’t do earmarks anymore. Those days are gone. I have taken a pledge not to ask for earmarks. It is a good, first step. We have to be creative at all levels to face the financial challenges,” Olson says.

Olson is passionate about protecting the jobs and space programs at the Johnson Space Center.

His subcommittee on space and the Senate committee have repudiated President Obama’s budget and through a bipartisan effort a bill keeping as much as $ 9 billion for the “Constellation” project is making its way.

On the extension of commuter rail into Fort Bend County by Houston Metro, being pushed by Olson’s Democratic counterpart, Al Green (D- Dist.9), Olson says he has a good working relationship with Green.

Already, Green had sought Olson’s name on a bill seeking funds for space programs just as the administration gave a special favor to Florida to save its space programs.

Olson says he has an open mind on commuter rail.

“I am talking to the people.

If people want it, I will support it,” he says.

Referring to the likely investigations to be launched by the Republicans if they win a majority in November, Olson denies the suggestion that it will be a witch hunt.

The Obama administration has appointed several “Czars” at cabinet level positions and the inquiries will reveal to the public what their role has been and the extent of their involvement in decision-making. This is part of the promised transparency in governing, he says.

Olson says he has a good relationship with the local Tea Party.

“They are good for America.

They are ordinary citizens opposing the out of control debt and spending,” Olson says.

As a result of the Tea Party more people will vote and it is healthy for the democracy, he says.

The November election has a special challenge for Texas in the governor’s race. Rick Perry needs to be re-elected because Republican control of the state is critical for the upcoming redistricting that will yield four more additional Congressional seats for Texas, Olson says.

Perry’s Democratic opponent, former Houston mayor Bill White, is working hard to increase the voter turn out to win the race, Olson says.

He needs to turn out voters in large numbers as was done in the last presidential election.

If White carries Houston and Harris Country, he may win the governor’s race, Olson says.

Baseball stadium gets preliminary environmental clearance

QUILTS BIND BORDERS. The Coastal Prairie Quilt Guild will have its quilt show, “Binding Borders Around the World,” on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 10 and 11 at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, The show will feature hundreds of quilts by local, national and international artisans. Special exhibits will include works by master quilters, Sharon Schamber and Cynthia England. The show will include on-site workshops and demonstrations. Tickets are $6. For further information, call Karen at 832-693-2512. Above, Barbara Baxter, Carol Bell, Carol Ann Barley, and Carol De Gruy show off the Coastal Prairie quilt that will be raffled off at the upcoming quilt show.

New Homes Summer Special !!

Hurry !! … Call Chinese Cowboy - Paul

Preliminary results of a study focusing on environmental impacts from a proposed minor league baseball stadium were recently presented to Sugar Land City Council.

The initial findings from an analysis of Federal Aviation Administration clearance issues related to the nearby Sugar Land Regional Airport and soil and water studies are not expected to delay a possible stadium opening for the 2012 baseball season.

A “Quality of Life” impact analysis of noise, lighting, traffic and public safety is expected to be presented to City Council on Sept. 7.

The stadium’s proposed location northeast of State Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 90A is more than half a mile from the nearest residence.

The complete report will be available on Sept. 8 at www. sugarlandtx.gov for public review and comment.

Public input will be presented to City Council prior to any action being taken on the final site selection.

“The City is committed to selecting a site that minimizes and/or eliminates any adverse impact to residents,” said City Manager Allen Bogard.

HOA’s, service organizations and other interested groups may also schedule a

speaker and presentation by contacting the Sugar Land Communications Department at 281- 275-2216 or by e-mail at pubinfo@sugarlandtx.gov.

On May 18, Sugar Land City Council approved an agreement with Opening Day Partners, LLC to bring professional minor league baseball to Sugar Land.

ODP – an experienced community-focused operator that emphasizes year-round community events and activities at their stadiums – will own and operate Sugar Land’s baseball team.

ODP will be the owner of the Atlantic League expansion team that will take to Sugar Land’s new field for its expected Opening Day in April 2012.

The $30 million stadium will be funded with a portion of sales tax revenues that may

only be used for economic development purposes. No general fund tax dollars will be spent on the stadium.

In addition to the stadium serving as a community amenity, a conservative costbenefit analysis performed by Conventions, Sports & Leisure International shows the project will provide an annual benefit to the community of conservatively $7.7 million, or a return of $169 million over 30 years, according to city officials.

Visit www.namesugarlandsteam.com and find out the final list of the proposed names for the stadium.

Join the contest, choose the name and win a prize.

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

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

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 • SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

Breast cancer survivors offering support

Seated left - right: Jenny Hrbacek, RN, Reconstruction of a Survivor and Survivors Offering Support; Melanie Frederick, Survivors Offering Support; Dr. Jennie M. Bennett, founder and director of Reconstruction of a Survivor; Rosemary Herron, Survivors Offering Support; Joanna Waits, Survivors Offering Support and Bill Bross, Director of Spiritual Care and Values Integration at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Standing left – right: Julia Kerner, Survivors Offering Support; Ann Daniel, Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center RN and facilitator for Methodist Survivors Offering Support; Karen Platt, Chaplain at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and facilitator for Methodist Survivors Offering Support; Janet Ely, founder of Survivors Offering Support; Marilyn Seiler, Survivors Offering Support and Marsha Yeager, Survivors Offering Support. written by Dr. Jennie M. BenMethodist Sugar Land Hos- treatment are welcome.

The support group will help nett, breast cancer survivor of pital has recently partnered with two breast cancer support women diagnosed with breast 14 years and founder and digroups, Survivors Offering cancer understand that breast rector of Reconstruction of a Support, and Reconstruction cancer affects them both emo- Survivor.

“The mission of Reconof a Survivor, to offer breast tionally and spiritually, not cancer survivors a group sup- just physically. It provides struction of a Survivor is to port system at Methodist Sug- women a belief that they fill the gap to serve all women will have a better future after diagnosed with breast cancer ar Land Hospital.

The newly formed breast breast cancer—this belief is as they find the power within cancer support group, Sur- a part of the healing process. themselves, surround themvivors Offering Support at The participants of the breast selves with similar survivors, Methodist Sugar Land Hospi- cancer support group will feel that nothing has been taktal, featuring Reconstruction reach toward their future with en from them, and understand of a Survivor’s curriculum, hope and realize the divine that deep down they long to “Navigating Life’s Roadmap path to take and move beyond explore all that is purposed for their life,” says Dr. Bennett.

After Breast Cancer,” will be- the battle with breast cancer.

Founders of the group, Sur- Reconstruction of a Survivor gin in October, breast cancer vivors Offering Support, Ja- uses this curriculum in several awareness month.

Women from all types of net Ely (survivor), Sara Plant locations in the Greater Housbackgrounds, ages, races, and (survivor) and Ronda Goodier ton Area.

Bill Bross, Director of Spirgeographic regions, who have (this survivor sadly lost her been recently diagnosed with battle with cancer in May itual Care and Values Integrabreast cancer, are undergoing of 2005) began the support tion at Methodist Sugar Land treatment or have completed group 10 years ago out of their Hospital stated, “The mission homes. These three women of Reconstruction of a Survowed that no woman had to vivor and the local Survivors face breast cancer alone and Offering Support group aligns thus formed Survivors Offer- perfectly with the vision and mission of Methodist Sugar ing Support.

“The need for a far reaching Land Hospital—we promise support group was apparent, to cultivate a safe, spiritual, and I thought partnering with and healing environment. We Methodist Sugar Land Hos- believe that they can overpital’s Spiritual Care Depart- come the challenging diagment would enable the group nosis of breast cancer to have to grow even more and pro- hope, possess healing, and vide our current survivors and transform their lives for a new members the increased more fulfilling life and better opportunity to learn, meet future.”

Join Survivors Offering other survivors, find support and share experiences,” said Support at Methodist Sugar Marsha Yeager, facilitator for Land Hospital on Thursdays, Oct. 14, Nov. 18 and Dec. 9 the group.

“Merging these groups is a from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.in win-win situation, as we can the Main Pavilion conference now provide support for more room D. For more informawomen living in Fort Bend tion, contact the Spiritual Care Department at 281-274-7164 County.”

The curriculum series, or visit Reconstruction of a “Navigating Life’s Roadmap Survivor’s website at www.

After Breast Cancer,” was roasurvivor.org.

State

State Representative Charlie Howard District 26

Featuring the Texas Conservative Coalition and Other State Legislators From Around the Thursday, September 16, 2010 7:00 p.m.

Clements High School Auditorium 4200 Elkins Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77479

Hear Representative Charlie Howard speak about what you can expect in the Legislative Session that starts January 2011.

There are many issues to be addressed in the upcoming session.

As legislators, we need you to be aware and motivated to be interactive during the session.

A few of the topics to be addressed: Balance the Budget without Raising Taxes

Limit Federal Intrusion

Improve Election Integrity

Cut Taxes & Secure the Border

Gobble Hobble Fun Run The Stafford MSD Education Foundation is now taking registration for their Oct. 30, Gobble Hobble Fun Run and Walk. The certified 5K event will be held at the Stafford Municipal School District complex. Registration through October 13, 2010, is $20 per adult and from October 14 to race day is $25. Students in grades Kindergarten through 12 may register for $10 per person. Children younger than Kindergarten are free to participate. Registration is available online through EZToRegister.com. To be a sponsor or to register for the fun run, contact Terry Loudenburg at 281-261-9219 or foundation@ stafford.msd.esc4.net.

PROUDLY SERVING FORT BEND SINCE 1981

This forum is FREE and open to the public so bring family, friends and neighbors.

For details, map, and online registration (helpful but not required)

Russell C. Jones

http://howardtownhall.eventbrite.com

Thelma Holoway Jones

For more information: charliehoward2010@gmail.com or Contact Charlie's Austin office: district26.howard@house.state.tx.us www.charliehoward.net

Please copy and distribute this flyer.

Political advertising paid for by Charlie Howard Campaign

Lewis W. “Chip” Smith IV ● Real Estate ● Landlord/Tenant ● ● Banking ● Creditors' Rights ● Collections ● ● Business and Corporate Law ● Immigration ● ● Business Litigation ● Mergers and Acquisitions ● ● Estate Planning ● Probate ● ● Property Owners' Associations ● In the Sugar Land Industrial Park 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land, Tx. 77478 281-242-8100 rjones@jonesattorneys.com www.jonesattorneys.com AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

SEPTEMBER 8, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

Community news

Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!

HCC workforce Summit on Sept. 15 dialogue with the community and business partners to better align the HCC educational offerings with the regional needs for workforce development and economic growth.

Summit participants will have the opportunity to provide suggestions on ways that HCC can team up with companies to help expand businesses in Southwest Houston through education and training, which ultimately benefits the local community and the economy.

“We are committed to meeting the business needs of the community through education and training, and we look forward to hearing from industry leaders and other stakeholders to help build an even stronger economy in Southwest Houston,” said Neeta Sane, Trustee, District VII, Vice-Chair, HCC Board.

“We are grateful for the

Sane opportunity to collaborate with the area Management Districts as we work together to strengthen the regional economy through strategic partnerships.”

In today’s economy, access to post-secondary education and training is essential for individual career success.

Estimates indicate that 80

percent of today’s new jobs require education or training beyond high school and that those jobs represent the fastest-growing and highestpaying segments of the new economy.

The Workforce Summit will be a valuable opportunity to work with stakeholders in the community to collaborate on ways to grow local businesses and help build a stronger regional economy.

The Summit will also focus on assisting many first generation immigrants to become aware of HCC’s educational and training opportunities.

The Summit is free and open to representatives of businesses in Southwest Houston.

Registration is required.

To R.S.V.P. or for more details, call 832-630-9402 or e-mail ccampbell@yaffedeutser.com.

Fort Bend Chamber presents “State of the Schools” The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce announced the 3rd Annual State of the Schools luncheon will be held Friday, Sept.10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marriott Town Square Hotel in Sugar Land.

The featured speakers will be Dr. Timothy Jenney, Superintendent of the Fort Bend Independent School District,

H.D. Chambers – Superintendent of the Stafford Municipal School District and Dr. Thomas Randle, Superintendent of the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District.

Jim Rice, Vice Chair of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s Education Division commented that, “Continued strong attendance from our

community business leaders, elected officials and our citizens demonstrate that our communities are invested in the success of our local school districts.

“This luncheon is the one event where all three superintendents are together commenting on challenges, changes, and the education

community as well as public education in the future. We anticipate this event will attract 400 attendees so early reservations are a must.”

Tickets must be purchased in advance from the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, contact Keri Schmidt at keri@fortbendcc.org or 281-491-0216.

Riverstone gears up for Sept. 25 Heart and Sole 5K Riverstone is hosting the inaugural Heart and Sole 5K Saturday, Sept. 25, benefiting Second Mile Mission.

The race is open to individuals, with team participation planned for next year’s event.

Awards will be given to the first-, second- and third-place finishers in men, women and youth categories.

Participants will follow a

certified course through Riverstone and can enjoy a postrace party.

Second Mile Mission is a Fort Bend-based organization serving those in need. In addition to its food pantry, Second Mile Mission operates the largest clothing closet in Fort Bend County, provides household items to people trying to re-establish a home,

gives financial assistance to those in crisis situations and offers dental and health care to the uninsured.

For more information on the event, including how to register, contact Melanie Rushé, Riverstone’s lifestyle director, at lifestyledirector@ riverstone.com or 281/4998722.

Riverstone, ranked fifth

among the 10 top-selling Houston communities by housing consultant Metrostudy, is located at Highway 6, three miles south of U.S. 59.

Home prices are from the $200,000s to the millions.

For more information on Riverstone, visit www.riverstone.com.

Fort Bend County contracts work with Texana Clients Recently, Fort Bend County Clerk Dianne Wilson contracted the clients at the Texana Learning Center at Sugar Land to assist in prepping 195,000 old court cases for shredding. These court cases no longer need to be kept because they are all on the computerized data base.

Before the documents can be shredded, all the paper clips, staples, binder clips and

any other metal objects must be removed.

This daunting task was contracted to the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Texana Center. They went through all 6 pallets, 260 boxes that had about 750 documents per box.

“Not only did they pick up the boxes and perform the work, they also delivered the

boxes to the county shredding facility when complete. It was easy, cost effective and provided employment to the Texana clients” said Wilson.

Contract jobs at the Texana Learning Centers work on a ‘piece rate system’ - a time study determines the rate the contracted work will be charged at. This piece rate system is utilized to ensure that the vendor gets a com-

petitive rate while the Texana client receives adequate compensation for the task.

Texana also has a special certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, which is a requirement to offer this type of contract work for your business. For inquiry about contract work for your business, contact Manuel Lopez or Pete Guerrero at 281-5656200.

State Rep. Charlie Howard signs TCC pledge State Rep. Charlie Howard announced last week that he has signed the Pledge with Texans, the legislative agenda of the Texas Conservative Coalition (TCC), the conservative caucus of the Texas Legislature.

Howard, a TCC member, said, “Conservative leadership over the past decade has made Texas the most successful state in the nation, validating the difficult but principled decisions the Legislature has made. We have garnered national recognition and praise for our relatively strong economy from numerous sources, including ABC News, CNN, The Economist, The Atlantic, and The Weekly Standard.”

“Moving forward,” Rep. Howard added, “we must continue to adhere to the principles of limited government, individual liberty, free enterprise, and traditional values.”

Howard said, “Our state faces many challenges, and the TCC Pledge with Texans

is our conservative plan of action. Next session, conservatives must fight to defend and advance our principles as we directly address a revenue shortfall without raising taxes, a federal government that too readily and too frequently intrudes on our liberty, and the challenge of protecting Texans from increasing violence along the Texas border.”

The TCC Pledge with Texans serves as a road map for the long-term success of the State of Texas by offering conservative solutions to the five most pressing issues that the next Legislature must address: •Balance the Budget without Raising Taxes •Limit Federal Intrusion •Improve Election Integrity •Cut Taxes •Secure the Texas Border To date, 49 conservative state legislators, including Rep. Howard, have signed the TCC Pledge with Tex-

ans. Rep. Howard concluded, “I am glad to stand with my fellow conservatives to make sure that Texas’ values and principles are upheld as the Legislature tackles the state’s major issues next session.”

Howard represents House District 26 in the Texas House of Representatives and is a member of the Texas Conservative Coalition, the conservative caucus of the Texas Legislature.

Fort Bend Lawyers CARE Fort Bend Lawyers CARE (FBLC) is proud to offer a WalkIn Legal Clinic at Calvary Episcopal Church, 806 Thompson Road, Richmond, Texas 77469, in the school gym, on Sept.11 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sponsored by FBLC. This walk-in legal clinic is open to all low income residents of Fort Bend County with civil legal questions. Topics include: Divorce/Custody/ Visitation/Child Support, Adult Guardianship, Adoption, Kincare, Real Estate, Bankruptcy, Credit Issues, landlord/tenant, and Wills & Probate. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. Call FBLC to pre-qualify. 281-239-0015.

Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com FIRST COLONY/ SUGAR LAND! Almost 2400sqft. 4 bedrooms 2.5 bath. Study and sitting/gameroom up. Owner spent over $62K on upgrades/improvements. Gourmet kitchen, tile/pergo thru-out no carpet. Priced in $200’s.

RE DU CE D

As a continuation of the successful Workforce Summit series initiated by HCC Trustee Neeta Sane, District VII, the next summit will be hosted in joint partnership with the Brays Oaks Management District, the Greater Sharpstown Management District and the International Management District of Alief to bring together industry leaders, emerging business executives, community partners and elected officials to highlight the growth opportunities in Southwest Houston.

The Workforce Summit will be held on Wednesday, Sept.

15 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Kim Son Restaurant, 10603 Bellaire Boulevard in Houston. Special guest Andy Icken, Chief Development Officer, City of Houston will be a featured speaker at the event.

The purpose of the Summit is to continue the innovative

FIRST COLONY

Suzette Peoples

ABR, GRI , E-Pro, 21 years Professional Realtor; Owner of Peoples Properties, a Real Estate & Property Management Co.; American Business Women’s Association.

SUGAR LAND REDUCED

SUGAR CREEK Great 1 story on huge corner lot. 3 bedPOOL/SPA & WATERFALL! 2 story 4 bedrooms! rooms & study. Seller has updated carpet, tile paint Master down. All tile/real wood thru-out, no in and out and roof replaced. Shows great and price carpet. All located on cul de sac street. Clements already reduced to go fast in the low $200’s. high school! Priced to go fast! Reduced $260’s.

FIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND

REDUCED

Built in 2006. Popular Perry 1 story home. 4 bedrooms and both formals or study. 16’ tile and hardwood floors. Garage/game room. Covered CUSTOM SHOW CASE HOME! Over 4300sqft 5 bedover size patio. Playground & shed stays. Private rooms 4 baths & 1/2 bath. Study and gameroom. Private Levee lot. Priced to go at $195,000. culdesac lot. Thousands in upgrades! Designer Decor thru out the home. Gourmet island kitchen & more! Rare find! Hurry priced to go fast under $500K.

NEW LISTING FIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND! Adorable 1-story home on cul de sac street. No neighbors behind you!

3 bedrooms & study or formal living. Open floor plan.

Detached garage! Priced below market at $210,000.

NEW LISTING Riverstone. Pool, Spa, Waterfall. Built 2003. Trendmaker beauty. Over 4,700 sqft. 5 BR 4.5 baths. 3 car, 2 masters. Rare find on huge oversized cul de sac lot. No neighbors next to you. Upgrades galore. Zoned to Clements. Priced in the $500’s.

NEW LISTING/QUAIL VALLEY Updated 1 story 4 bedrooms 2.5 bath with new roof and carpet July 2010. Interior all repainted and new fixtures too. Great location on landscaped reserve. Priced to go $125,000!!

Mortgage Banker can do loans in less than 30 days!

Call Suzette or email: Speoplesrealtor@aol.com

How about a worry-free insurance plan especially for people age 45 and over?* State Auto’s new Prime of LifeSM Plan provides expanded insurance coverages and substantial premium discounts on auto and homeowners insurance for qualifying customers age 45 and over*! As part of the Prime of Life Plan, you’ll enjoy enhanced coverages for when you travel, anywhere in the U.S.A. or Canada. Call your State Auto agent today for more information.

Texans Insurance &enhancements/discounts Financial Group, *Qualifying age and coverage vary byInc state.

101 Southwestern Blvd, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478-3535 PH (281)277-7800 FAX (281)277-7801 basil@texansinsure.com Your best insurance is a good agent.

“Friends you can depend on”

FOR SALE 9105 Main St. Needville 900 sq ft. Store front/office space.

Two separate office spaces shared kitchen and restroom. Two private offices on left and one large private office on right. Large lot in back. Reduced $54,000.

FOR SALE 9107 Main St Needville 1600 sq ft Warehouse-large open space currently warehouse and work space for small business or artist. Separate restroom. Loading area in back side driveway and large lot. Reduced $54,000.

FOR LEASE 9109 Main St Needville 2000 sq ft Store front with living quarters. Live and work here. Large, open, excellent lighting, new kitchen, parking on side, excellent for store, office space, gym, or gallery.

See Ads in ForSaleByOwner.com. $1000 month.

Open House Sept. 18, Sat ., 8 to12; Sept. 19, Sun., 12 to 3

Call Rita 832 368 3092

Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club will be meeting on Monday, Sept. 13 at the Sugar Land Community Center, 226 Matlage Way. Texas A&M Student Body President, Jacob Robinson, will be the guest speaker. There will also be a Q&A session with a panel of Aggie moms who will share their knowledge and experience regarding things you want and need to know about Aggie life. Social time, refreshments, and boutique shopping will begin at 7 p.m. The program and business meeting will follow.

For more information visit www.fortbendaggiemoms.org.

Walk away from Knee Pain Free seminar on MAKOPlasty Partial Knee Replacement Thursday, Sept. 9, 2010; 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

14090 Southwest Freeway, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reservations Required: Call 281-491-7111 http://www.tomparrmd.net/MAKOplasty.html

Directory Directory Directory Directory Directory Lawn& Landscape AT Renovations, Inc. 101 Southwestern Blvd. Ste.230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawn@texansfp..com (281) 787-4302

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

Accountant Sandersen & Knox LLP , Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.SKBTexas.com (281) 242-3232

Attorney

Physician

Hrbacek & Associates,P.C.

Nik Nikam, MD

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com 281-240-2424

Sugar Land Heart Center 16659 S.W. FWY, #361 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-7567 www.sugarlandheartcenter.com

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

Opinion The View from Sugar Land Dems on the defense

By RUSSELL C. JONES As mid-term elections approach, tempers are flaring and politicians are looking for someone–anyone–other than themselves to blame.

The obvious target is the president. Democrats and Republicans alike are pointing the finger in the direction of the White House and laying the blame at its doorstep.

The party which is out of power traditionally follows that strategy. As voters become disgruntled with the incumbent chief executive, the opposing party takes advantage of his flagging support and attempts to paint all members of the president’s party with his popular dissatisfaction. In the case of Obama, it is particularly easy to do this year.

With the health care debacle clearly out of favor, resentment over the bailouts, and a tremendous sense of impropriety in saddling future generations with unprecedented debt, Obama’s popularity has collapsed. Republicans, bolstered by Tea Party conservatives, are ready to pounce like a cat on a mouse.

The surprise is that members of his own party are doing the same. In the midst of the incumbents’ fall from favor, Democrats are becoming excessively concerned with guarding against the threat of exposure of the party’s failures. Some campaigns for re-election scarcely mention the candidate’s party, in the hope that voters will forget. Democrats are turning down offers from Obama to make personal appearances on their behalf. No one is bragging about having supported Obamacare, except, perhaps, Pelosi and Boxer.

In an off-the-cuff remark in a Labor Day speech to a city ravaged by unemployment, Obama’s defensiveness became

unions he would spend another $50 billion on infrastructure.

Apparently the $814 billion in last year’s plan did not work.

The answer is to spend more.

As the November elections approach, watch for Democrats to argue that Obama’s policies have staved off even worse economic problems than the country faces today. After all, they can always blame Bush.

Name that team

Jones apparent to a crowd of union workers in Milwaukee. “Some powerful interests who have been dominating the agenda in Washington [are] not always happy with me. They talk about me like a dog.” Of course, the most powerful interest in Washington is his own party, which controls the White House and both houses of Congress.

A White House press release in June announced the coming “Recovery Summer.” Obama and Biden both toured the country to brag about the stimulus plan’s foreseen boost to employment. Instead the summer is gone and the recovery is nonexistent as shown by last week’s unemployment data.

The August unemployment report showed that the economy shed jobs for a third straight month, losing 54,000. The unemployment rate rose to 9.6%, the 16th straight month above 9%, the longest stretch in a quarter-century. Even Obama said the report was “not nearly good enough,” and, of course, blamed Republicans for causing America’s hard economic times.

Wary of the public’s concern over rising deficits, Obama insists a second stimulus plan is not in the works. Maybe not, but on Monday he promised the

For weeks residents have been suggesting names for Sugar Land’s new professional baseball team. Over 7,000 entries were received during the first phase of the naming contest.

Consultants for Opening Day Partners, the team owner, have been sorting through hundreds of nominations and narrowing the choices for the next phase of the selection process. Some proposed names are traditional.

Some are obvious. Some are unique. Others are bizarre and just plain weird.

The finalists were to be published on Tuesday at www. namesugarlandsteam.com, and everyone is encouraged to choose his favorite. Only one vote is allowed, so make it a good one. The name with the most votes will become the symbol of the city for years to come.

One voter will receive the grand prize of lifetime season tickets to the team’s games.

No new taxes

After months of planning, the City Council this week passed its annual budget and adopted a tax rate for the coming fiscal year. The tax rate will remain unchanged, and the average tax bill will decrease slightly.

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: Sidewalks

By JANICE SCANLAN There’s nothing quite like sidewalks to fire up a wide variety of people – and opinions. From should we have them to who should take care of them? So today’s column may make you happy or sad . . . or it may just reflect that we seem to have a lot of trouble agreeing.

So when a group at citizens’ meeting come to a consensus with people on all sides of the issue, that should tell you something—and this meeting took place April 15, 2008 – just before the May election. At one table, besides me, were Bob Thompson, Greyling Poats, Skip Belt, David Hamner, the owner of Sunshine Liquor on Cartwright and Doug Parker.

These are individuals with strong opinions. Add that we are 3 weeks away from the election with Mr. Poats running against Allen Owen for Mayor.

We agreed on every issue of substance such as Texas Parkway and Cartwright needed to come under a TIRZ district so that tax money could be used to improve them. We agreed Texas Pkwy should be first, and it was an important project that demanded immediate attention. Well, immediate doesn’t always happen.

A bid to improve Texas

Scanlan Pkwy with a sidewalk on the east side from Cartwright to 90A was accepted last week and will be paid for by Missouri City TIRZ #1. While I understand part of the project had to be scaled back due to a higher bid than expected, better pedestrian safety at main intersections and better looking intersections are part of the overall work.

This is a welcomed need.

Pedestrian accidents and deaths have been part of Texas Parkway for too long.

There has been no safe way for kids to walk or bike to Missouri City Middle School, for example. All you have to do is look at the paths that have been created by people walking on the lot next door to Unity Bank to have plain evidence that pedestrians are out there walking.

Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

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

A tower and kiosk at 90A will ultimately be part of the overall project plan, but it falls under TxDOT. It is approved, but not scheduled.

Let’s hope they don’t find more accounting errors that deep-sixed other Missouri City projects in the past.

On the Colonies side of Missouri City, the sidewalk maintenance issue has re-surfaced. Certainly Councilman Elackatt tackling this problem was desirable. However, it seems that sub-contractors hired to do the repair work have had some residents disagree with the repairs.

Public Works moved the crew to their next job so your tax dollars aren’t spent on workers standing around while supervisors argue with residents. Come on folks, you may have a legitimate argument, but sub-contractors are there to do a specific job, not re-design it or chat with you.

For those of us who don’t have sidewalks, your issues seem like debating whether the ice cream sundae should have cream and a cherry. Yes, I agree with handicapped access so don’t get in a twit.

The point is to resolve the issue with the proper people.

But sidewalks really fire up emotions.

Write janicescanlan@ earthlink.net.

For free listing of upcoming community events, send email to editor@ fbindependent.com

Viewpoint: Fort Bend County’s Tea Party

By JAMES IVES The Tea Party effort in Fort Bend County is a mirror of the Tea Party Movement nationwide-it has come to be a representative of the Peoples’ interests.

While there will always be individuals and groups that differ on this policy or that, this program or the other, there will also be a need for an element that acts as a watchdog, that sounds the alarm when our Liberty is threatened.

This is the Tea Party.

In the first days of the Movement, we gathered to protest the massive corporate bailouts, the outrageous taxes being proposed, and the blatant anti-American tilt of our foreign policy under the new administration.

As this initial fervor ebbed, and we held together despite widespread predictions of dissolution and collapse, we realized that something much more ominous was abroad, something that had not been seen in this land, but was now here, it was everywhere, and this threatened to not only assault our traditions and our heritage, but to forever alter the very meaning of the word American.

For an entire generation, groups and individuals had been plotting and working.

The organized far Left had been building on an agenda that brought together aspects of European Socialism, a group mentality as opposed to American “rugged individualism”, and this world view is set to assail the very pillars of Americanism- Faith, Family and Nation.

Ives Set against this, the Tea Party here in Fort Bend County, as across the nation, is made up of average citizens, but they are the very backbone of the Republic.

Teachers, doctors, salesmen, grandmothers, students, moms and dads, all spending their time and their money, donating their ideas and offering their vision to aid in the national struggle.

This movement began with a series of highly visible and emotional rallies, attempts to capture the attention of the elites in power, and to remind them that it is the people that rule, as we are citizens of this land, not subjects. Not Right or Left, neither Republican nor Democrat but Americans all. There is no national body that controls the Tea Party, no Central Committee that issues orders, and no one personality amassing a powerbase.

Our only manifesto is the Constitution... our only agen-

da is Liberty.

Accusations of racism and xenophobic nationalism are hurled at us, but these are nonsense if one spends a single day at a rally, or one evening at a Tea Party meeting.

We hold true to the meaning of the documents that made our land free, created a haven for all of those seeking escape from oppression and fear, wanting the opportunity to succeed and to live as they see fit. Our Founders risked all to build this Republic, and it is up to us, their heirs, to pass it on to the future intact.

We are now holding a nationwide civics course. We hold classes that study the Constitution and the Bill of Rights in detail. We organize voter deputy registrar training courses, set up seminars and Leadership courses in citizenship, election law and political organizing.

We block-walk to turn out the vote, and we bring speakers to the people, experts that explain and clarify events and legislation that affect the lives of us all. It is the duty of every citizen to safeguard the liberties that are our birthright, to stand ready to defend the legacy of our forefathers and to help our own descendants bathe in the light from Liberty’s torch.

The Tea Party is ready to stand this watch, and we urge all citizens of the County to join us at www.fortbendcountyteaparty.com, stand with us and become one among many.

James Ives is the president of Fort Bend County Tea Party.

Overuse of CT scans adds to cost

By THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. American medicine benefits greatly by our ability to use some impressive, modern technology.

We can treat conditions with precision that has the potential to limit side effects that were unavoidable in previous days. We can diagnose diseases sooner, giving us the power to intervene early and save lives.

In earlier days, we physicians had to find out what was going on in the abdomen during an illness or following trauma by performing “exploratory surgery.”

Let me assure you that no one wants his or her surgeon using a knife to “look around” as part of a blind search for problems.

With today’s modern technology, physicians seldom enter the body or administer a potentially dangerous treatment without clear knowledge of the underlying diagnosis and without having planned in advance what the precise surgery will be.

Unfortunately, the easy availability of today’s technology has led to some overuse problems which carry unnecessary risks for the patient, yet do not change the treatment or outcome. There are a few basic reasons for this.

A recent AP report from Chicago by Lindsey Tanner explains how physicians, especially Emergency Room physicians, are hesitant to forgo tests that are expensive or involve high radiation doses.

It is easier to order a test than to take extra time to explain to a patient why it is not needed.

In addition, if there is even a remote chance that additional tests can help prevent a malpractice suit, the doctor will order it.

After all, he or she is using someone else’s money to pay for the test, and in the case of CT scans, the patient is the only one receiving the radiation.

The often overworked ER

Parr doctor does not have the time to establish rapport and trust with each patient, and too frequently finds it more convenient to substitute extra tests.

Fortunately, I do have the time to develop rapport with my patients, and I am blessed with a very bright, proactive patient population.

But, more than once a week, I have to explain to someone that just because he or she is curious and has “good insurance” is not a reason to get a CT scan that will not enhance my ability to diagnose or treat the problem.

I recently saw two patients on the same day who had fallen and cracked several ribs. Unfortunately, both had received CT scans in an ER in order to confirm their fractures. The exam for a rib fracture is straightforward: make sure there are no other injuries by feeling and listening to the chest and abdomen, take an x-ray if there is any question of the severity of the injury, and then explain what to expect as the ribs heal over the next couple of months.

And of course, give the patient your sympathy and some pain medication!

Most of the time, unless the physical examination indicates severe displaced fractures or fluid build up in the lungs, we do not even need to get a chest x-ray!

My point is that, under most circumstances, a CT is not medically needed to improve patient care, but it does drive up health care costs.

It is important to understand the differences among the various imaging studies: x-rays, CTs, and MRIs. Because of improved technology, a chest x-ray produces only about twice as much radiation as a flight crew receives during a round trip across the country at 30-40 thousand feet.

Unfortunately, a chest CT scan imparts 100 times the radiation required for a chest x-ray and costs 8 to 10 times more.

A CT scan of the abdomen can expose the patient to as much as 400% more radiation than a routine abdominal x-ray.

On the other hand, although expensive, an MRI does not involve any radiation.

It is not always appropriate however. It may not provide the needed information, it might not be necessary, or the patient may be unable to have an MRI for a number of possible medical reasons.

We do not know what the lower threshold is for producing cancer by radiation, but we know that radiation is a carcinogen.

A physician reporting in the New England Journal of Medicine recently stated that she and her colleagues had determined that a single CT study could carry as high as a 1 in 80 chance of causing cancer.

CT scans are not evil. They save lives and are a wonderful tool when used properly; but they should not be overused just to “treat the chart.” It is OK to ask me or any other doctor why we are ordering a CT test. Unless you know exactly what your doctor plans to do depending upon the results of the CT studies, you probably ought to ask more questions before exposing yourself or a family member to that level of radiation.

Dr. Thomas Parr, an orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land, can be reached at 281-4917111.Visit www.tomparrmd. net for more information.

SEPTEMBER 8, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 5

Museum pays tribute to local artist The Fort Bend Museum will pay tribute to local artist Carmen Willey with a special exhibit opening Sept. 10.

Willey, 92, helped form the first art league in Fort Bend County in 1957 and is recognized for her sketches and watercolor paintings of historical sites around the County, many of which are no longer standing.

“This is going to be a wonderful, well-deserved honor,” said Evalyn Moore, who is helping organize the exhibit and an exclusive grand opening event. “Carmen has meant so much to us and we want to do our very best to thank her for everything she has done in our community.”

Willey gave private art lessons to many Fort Bend County children throughout the years and was very active in the community, particularly with the Fort Bend Museum and the art department of the Fort Bend County Fair, Moore said.

Willey was born on May 9, 1918, and moved to Rosenberg with her parents and two siblings when she was in eighth grade. Her father had previously worked selling refrigerators in the Houston area, but the family business lost everything during the Great Depression. He eventually found a job as a salesman with the Houston Lighting and Power Company in Rosenberg.

Willey had enjoyed taking art lessons at her school in Baytown, but the Rosenberg high school didn’t offer art classes at the time. So she spent the summers with her Aunt Ethel in Houston, where she could take the streetcar to her private art lessons. She also took mostly art courses once she enrolled at Texas State College for Women (now Texas Woman’s University) in Denton, Texas.

Willey’s future husband, Harold, moved with his family to Rosenberg during his tenth grade year.

“Being good-looking and the new boy on the block, all the girls were after him,” Willey said.

“I won out and we married October 18, 1938.” The Willeys had three children – Wendall, Nita and Carrie – and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in 2008. Harold died in 2009. As their three

Willey children got older, Willey began driving into Houston to take lessons from several teachers at the Museum of Fine Arts.

“I gleaned everything from my variety of teachers and arrived at my own colors and method of painting,” she said.

“From then on I have never stopped practicing, practicing, practicing.”

In 1957, Willey had a phone conversation with friend Darby Prastik about forming an art club where people could get together to paint and learn about various mediums and techniques, including oils, pastels and watercolors.

Eventually, a group of 10 friends joined to form the first Fort Bend County art league.

Willey began sketching and painting historic homes and sites around the County.

Her first paintings weren’t the greatest, she said, because she lacked formal training.

In an effort to refine her artistry, Willey borrowed books from the library, took private lessons and practiced extensively. Eventually, she began receiving commissions for her watercolors of the various historical sites.

To keep busy after her children graduated and left home, Willey and her friend Adele Hauger began promoting a new history museum that was under construction: The future Fort Bend Museum.

Willey and Hauger borrowed a movie camera from Pickard & Huggins Drug

FILM REVIEW: The American This is a modern-day Spaghetti Western circa Clint Eastwood except this time it is pretty boy George Clooney (age 49).

I loved all the 1960’s Eastwood/Sergio Leone movies about the stoic cowboy/assassin who spoke little and killed many.

I had seen the trailers for “The American” and I was pumped; this movie couldn’t fail. Wrong, Theatre Breath!

I was profoundly disappointed. Was the acting bad?

No. Was there something wrong with the cinematography, the music, editing?

No, that’s not the problem either.

Then what’s the problem?

Script.

The story sounds wonderful and intriguing: Assassin Jack (Clooney) has to pull the trigger of his sissy Walther .380 a few too many times in Sweden so he flees to Italy to lay low for awhile in preparation of one last job.

Store in Rosenberg and photographed area historical sites; they even discovered several out-of-the-way places with historical value during the project. Once they finished filming, they borrowed a projector from Bill Sloan of KFRD radio in Rosenberg and spent the next few months presenting their information to Fort Bend County schoolchildren. Hauger narrated the film live.

Willey and others also worked tirelessly to collect artifacts for the Museum’s gallery and collections. On the day of the Museum’s grand opening, Willey and several others were still designing exhibits and connecting electricity right up until opening time.

“We all went into the meetThe “Oh Happy Day!” luning room with sweaty blue cheon kicked off the school jeans on and straggly hair, year for the Fort Bend/Harris when all the dignitaries and Retired Educators.

The first guests were dressed to the luncheon of the year was held nines,” she said. “I wouldn’t on Monday, Aug. 23 at First take anything for the experiUnited Methodist Church ence and the memories.” in Sugar Land.

New retirees “The Art of Carmen Wilwere guests at the luncheon. ley” exhibit will be housed New retirees who attended in the 1883 historic Moore the TRTA kick off luncheon i Home on the grounds of the ncluded the following: Fort Bend Museum.

Seated L-R: Mitzi Cestero, A special invitation-only Martha Magnus, Sally Stanreception and grand opening er and Pat Deane; 2nd Row event is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 10; the exhibit will remain up through Nov. 20.

For more information, call Claire Rogers at 281-342-6478.

The Museum is at 500 Houston By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2011 Ford Fiesta is a fun Street in Richmond. Visit www. car to drive and look at. The fortbendmuseum.org. design is definitely expressive and particularly eye catching when the body is swathed in followed. State Rep. Charlie lime squeeze metallic paint.

On the 2011 Fiesta, Ford Howard sponsored and carsays there are 15 different ried the bill, along with a large “class-exclusive technologies” number of cosponsors. That offered but the best selling fealegislation is now the law of ture the Fiesta offers has got to the land in Texas. be an estimated 40 miles to the Here is a list of the top five gallon.

Free Speech issues protected The Fiesta is targeted at buyby Texas Law. ers who want to drive a vehicle 1. Students have the right to that’s versatile, has personality student-led prayer at special and is adaptable to what they events, such as See You at the want their car to be. Ford has Pole already sold more than half a 2. Students have the right to million Fiestas to customers in be a part of student-led ChrisEurope and Asia. tian clubs, like Good News It got its good looks as the Club result of global customer re3. Students have the right to search that showed customers hold student-led Bible studies want a car that doesn’t blend on the school campus before or in with all the others and they after school want a small car with world4. Students have the right to class quality, convenience, express their Christian values, comfort and connectivity. like praying at graduation cerThe Fiesta is powered by emonies or choosing to write a 1.6-liter dual overhead cam critically on topics such as I-4 engine that’s mated to a abortion or evolution six-speed automatic transmis5. Students have the right to sion. share their faith, which can inThe little engine that can clude inviting friends to church makes 120 horsepower and and handing out pamphlets if 112 lbs.-ft. torque. The enother extracurricular groups gine features twin indepenare allowed to do so dent variable camshaft timing If you or your children have which allows the motor to be any issues at school where one downsized for fuel economy of these rights is violated, contact Liberty Institute at info@ while continuously optimizing camshaft phasing for throttle libertyinstitute.org.

The full text of the original response, performance and Bill is here: http://www.legis. flexibility.

The Fiesta is available in state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtwo body styles: a five-door text/html/HB03678F.HTM hatchback or four-door sedan.

Bob Long Up front on both body styles San Marcos, Texas the Fiesta’s face is framed Bobdl54@yahoo.com

Jack is complicated and if you can know a man by the friends he keeps then Jack is certainly interesting because his “friends” are a hooker, mobster, and a Catholic Priest.

I think I know that joke: so a hooker, a mobster, and a priest walk in a bar... Only this time, it is not a joke although maybe it should have been a little more humorous.

I think my audience laughed zero times.

My audience was also very old and seemed unengaged and distracted. Clooney and the girls looked pretty sweet.

I don’t have a man crush or anything but Clooney’s eyelashes are impressive.

I’ve known George Clooney was more than just another pretty face when he played Captain Billy Tyne in “The Perfect Storm” in 2000 which is also the year he starred in “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”

The boy can act and he did a magnificent job as the lonely, melancholy American in

Italy, but I couldn’t emotionally invest in the characters and didn’t care if they lived or died.

Here’s a bright spot, there was a interesting storyline about a lightweight rifle smuggled and assembled by Jack which was ideal for killing folks.

End of bright spots. I am hereby replacing AMC — Loew’s The Fountains as my Number One Theatre with AMC First Colony.

I will maintain my reserved parking space in the rear of The Fountains (see larryhmoviereviews.com for a photo) and trust that you will not park there. Problem: I do not have reserved parking at AMC First Colony; hmmmm.

Is it possible that the management at First Colony does not know who I am? I’ve been having recognition problems lately; what’s up with that?

Maybe I need a team jersey.

Rock ‘n Roll.

Grade 78. Larry H. sugarlaw@larryharrison.com

Fort Bend /Harris retired teachers meet Sept. 9

L-R: Leslie Hartman, Shirl Hawes, Rita Brown, Margaret Dixon, Rotella Hughes, Carlos Rodriguez and Steve Mathews Back row L-R: John Sarkisian, Sandy Reina, Alice Thompson, Kay Slack Beard, Corinne Jones, Peggy Campbell, and Rachel Glen Future meetings for the organization which are open to all retired public education retirees are held the second Thursday of the month from

September to May at the First United Methodist Church 431 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land.

The next meeting will be held at 1p.m. on Thursday, Sept.9.

The organization hosts three luncheons: one to begin the year, one in December, and one to end the year.

Plans for the year include two field trips and good programs planned throughout the year.

Visit www.trta.org for more information.

Automobile: Ford Fiesta

Viewpoint: Religion in schools is legal The return to school every year brings together both ritual and release of adrenalin, for it seems that no matter the age or education level, the first day of school brings out every student’s insecurity, no matter how many times the ritual has been experienced.

Speaking of insecurity, there has been heated debate, numbers of lawsuits and incredible amounts of misunderstanding and misinformation about what Texas students can and cannot do in expressing their religious faith in the classroom, on school grounds or at school events.

Worthy of reporting here, many school districts, leaders, teachers and Principals have been much quicker to crack down on Christians expressing their faith than others.

Well documented cases like the 150 page suit filed against the Plano ISD in 2004 over numerous apparent violations of free speech, including a district ban even on handing out candy canes with a Christian message attached.

All over Texas there were, in the minds of many parents and students, a political hostility shown by districts and even teachers, not just an over emphasis on political correctness.

There is a long and varied list of issues and instances like this one from around the State.

In 2006, the Katy ISD forbade students from handing out Valentine cards with a Christian

message. Parents and Alliance Defense Fund sued the District.

Later, the Katy ISD again overstepped and blacked out a Bible verse on order forms for fund raising Christmas cards but did not alter or black out religious message on the card forms from Hanukkah or Kwanzaa.

Again, frustrated parents and Alliance Defense Fund sued.

Just weeks ago, on July 30th, Federal Court again ruled that Katy ISD had indeed violated the free speech rights of Christian students.

In 2007, the Texas Legislature crafted a landmark but common sense bill- “The Texas School Children’s Religious Liberty Act” which was indeed signed into Law. This law clarifies, defines, informs and protects teachers, Principals, Board Members, students and parents from misinformation and misunderstanding.

Today, I want to make sure that parents, students, teachers, school board members and Principals are accurately informed that the Law in Texas is about the rights that students have in Texas to express their religious faith. In 2007 a key piece of legislation became law.

It was a balanced piece of legislation that lawyers from Liberty Institute helped craft to insure that Constitutional accuracy and boundaries were

by elongated headlamps that connect the hood to the front fenders. At the rear of the car the low roofline sweeps into a spoiler and taillamps with honeycomb detailing are mounted high in the five-door’s corners.

The Fiesta features first row bucket seats with a 60/40 split second row seat. Cloth or leather seating vary by trim levels. Sculpted surfaces, contrasting colors and comfortable, supportive materials make the interior as individual as the driver. Twenty-five percent of the seat fabric inserts are made of recycled content.

Fiesta features a standard five-speed manual transaxle with gear ratios selected to offer spirited off-the-line performance for those who like three pedals and a stick shift to maximize the driving experience. For those who prefer an automatic shift it’s available in a six-speed.

Specially tuned front struts, bushings, dampers, stabilizer bars and a rear twist-beam axle give Fiesta sporty driving dynamics while keeping it sure footed and firmly planted.

The rigid body shell contributes to Fiesta’s road handling and safety.

Fiesta safety features include dual-stage first-row air

bags, driver’s knee air bag, side air bags and side curtain air bags. Electronic stability control is standard on Fiesta along with rear door child safety locks and a safety canopy system.

Sound absorbent materials made of recycled content keep the ride and drive of the Fiesta quiet. Wind and road noise are not annoying and engine noise is subdued by a hood blanket.

Fiesta offers customers a number of standard and available features that increase convenience and add connectivity.

Among them is a system that integrates a driver’s mobile phone with Fiesta’s onboard, voice-activated communications and entertainment system, keyless entry and push button start, tilt and telescoping steering wheel and adjustable cup holders. The Fiesta also comes with Ford’s capless fuel filler system.

I like the way the Fiesta handles, rides and looks and the retail price is also right at $16,320 for all standard equipment. Heated front seats, chrome belt line molding, keyless entry and start system, chrome decklid molding, six-speed automatic transmission and leather seats put the MSRP on the test drive Fiesta at $18,900.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

Sugar Land Democrats Sugar Land Democrats Club will meet Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the home of Cynthia Ginyard located 11418 Oak Lake Ridge Ct., Sugar Land. Call for directions 832-444-4073. Come anytime you can during this time period.

Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s Club PAC State Senator Joan Huffman will be the featured speaker on Sept. 17 at Spring Creek Barbecue, 4895 Highway 6, Missouri City. Meet and Greet 11 a.m. Meeting with Speaker at 11:30 a.m.

New members welcome.

Hear about the upcoming legislative session, redistricting and more. For more informaion contact Tina Gibson at 281-491-6599

Workshop on QuickBooks The University of Houston Fort Bend County Small Business Development Center will host QuickBooks Pro 2010 workshop in English, on Wednesday, Sept. 8, part 1 and Wednesday, Sept. 15, part 2.

QuickBooks Pro 2010 is an easy to use tool that can simplify your business’s accounting system. This workshop is designed for the novice QuickBooks user.

In this hands-on workshop, you will define general accounting terms used in bookkeeping, determine your method of bookkeeping; cash or accrual, set up a new company and manage accounts payables and receivables, discover how to invoice customers and set up a payroll system.

The class will be held at 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in English at the U of H Fort Bend County SBDC, 117 Lane Drive, Rosenberg, Texas. For more information, or to register for the event, contact UH Fort Bend County SBDC at 281-341-5027 (Rosenberg SBDC) or 281-499-9787 (Missouri City SBDC).

Sugar Creek Garden Club The annual Membership Brunch for Sugar Creek Garden Club will be held on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at Sugar Creek Country Club. The brunch begins at 9:30 a.m. followed

by Deanna Roberts who will present a fantastic program “Orchid-Growing SemiHydroponically.” There are many opportunities for your involvement, so please join whenever you can for fun and fellowship. No reservations necessary.

Acting classes Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre launches its Fall Acting classes for ages eight through eighteen. Classes will be held on Saturday mornings beginning Sept. 18, and ending Nov. 13, 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 to hold your child’s place, with the remaining balance due by Sept. 12. For more information visit www.fortbendtheatre.com, or call 281208-3333.

Golf tournament to aid police officers The Missouri City Police Officers Association invites the public to be a sponsor, donor or participant in the Missouri City Police Offi-

cers Association Annual Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept.

17 at the Quail Valley Golf Course on the renovated El Dorado Course.

All donations and/or sponsorship will enable them to continue to help feed hungry families, bring toys to area underprivileged children at Christmas, give to local charities, assist officers in emergencies and continue to support the community-oriented projects throughout the year.

Last year they awarded seven $1500 college scholarships in memory and honor of former officers Damian Buckner and Andrew Svoboda. They have various sponsorships and hole signs advertising your business/name.

Registration will start at 9:30 a.m. and lunch will be provided. Shotgun start at 11:00 a.m followed by a buffet dinner and auction.

If interested contact Officer Donna Quackenbush #592 President, Missouri City Police Officer’s Association @ dquackenbush@missouricitytx.gov or Floyd Emery @ floydemery@sbcglobal.net The MCPOA is a non profit 501 (c) (5) organization.

Marketing: Social media The University of Houston Small Business Development Center of Fort Bend County will host, MARKETING: SOCIAL MEDIA, course on Wednesday, Sept. 22. If you own a business or are preparing to start one you cannot afford to miss this event. This workshop will address issues involved in Social Media such as: What is Social Media?

What is the hottest Social Media tool to emerge today?

What are the top social media resources?

How will this help my business?

Where do I start?

And much more!

If you are trying to grow your profits you must attend this class in Social Media and find out how it will help your business grow!

The event will be held from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the U of H Fort Bend County SBDC, 117 Lane Drive, Suite 31, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. Lunch will be provided. For more information or to register for this event, contact UH Fort Bend County SBDC at 281-4999787.

Fall festival Holy Family Church located at 1510 Fifth St., Missouri City, will hold its annual Fall Festival on Sunday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Raffle tickets are $2 each or a book of 6 for $10 and you could win one of the 10 exciting prizes.

There will be lots of rides and games. A variety of food will be served (breakfast tacos, BBQ, hamburgers, hotdogs, fajitas, Indian food, Filipino food, turkey legs, nachos, corn-on-the-cob, etc). Parking is free. For more information contact Fall Festival Co-Chairs Connie or Ruben Govea at 281-438-2629 or cell - 832-247-7801.

Band night Fort Bend ISD will present an evening of competitive marching exhibitions during its annual Band Night on Monday, Oct. 4 at Mercer Stadium (16403 Lexington Blvd. in Sugar Land) at 6 p.m. and conclude by 8:45 p.m. Seating will be on the home side only.

Admission is free and concessions will be served. Band Night allows parents and patrons to enjoy the outstanding talents of some of FBISD’s finest young musicians. Band Night will feature the district’s 11 high school band and dance teams performing their competition shows for the upcoming University Interscholastic League Marching Contest, which will be held Oct. 14.

Sugar Land calls for Shutterbugs Amateur and professional photographers are invited to submit their favorite photos of Sugar Land for the city’s 2011 calendar, the “Best of Sugar Land.”

Photos should celebrate the “best” of Sugar Land from its people to its beautiful parks, schools, businesses and neighborhoods. Photographs may include favorite locations, artistic elements or candid shots of people of all ages and backgrounds in scenes reflecting the vibrant community life and diversity that makes Sugar Land such a unique and outstanding city.

The City’s annual calendar is mailed to more than 30,000 residents and businesses during the first week of December, with limited additional quantities available at City Hall. Photos should be submitted in high-resolution format (300 dots per inch with a physical dimension of 8.5 by

11 inches) and reflect the City today and include: •the name and contact information of photographers (addresses, phones and e-mails); •locations of each photo submitted; and •approximate dates of when the images were photographed.

The deadline for submissions is Sept. 30, and winners will be notified by Oct. 1.

There is no monetary award, but photographers will be credited in the calendar for winning images selected and retain all rights to their photos for other uses.

E-mail entries to pubinfo@ sugarlandtx.gov or send prints to the Sugar Land Communications Department, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479.

Submissions will not be returned.

For more information, call 281-275-2216.

FCCA’s fall programs

First Colony Community Association (FCCA) recently announced its list of fall 2010 recreational programs for all ages. Each season, FCCA brings a new roster of fun and educational classes to the community.

This fall, youth classes are offered in a variety of areas.

Kindermusik, fencing, Spanish Club, American-style karate and Starz Cheer & Tumble will be offered this season.

Kids can get exercise while learning energetic Bollywoodstyle dance moves or explore their creative sides while taking art classes taught by Texas-certified art instructor John Rodak. Science Eyes, a science, math and problem solving class, will also be offered for children ages 8 to 14.

Adults can enroll in Zumba, Spanish class, Country & Western dancing, watercolor and swing/jitterbug dance lessons.

Yoga and meditation classes will increase well-being by reducing stress and soothing aches and pains.

As always, tennis lessons will be offered to all skill levels. FCCA programs are open

Hearts of Hope The Pregnancy Resource Center of Fort Bend County will hold its annual fundraising banquet, “Hearts of Hope… Shining Light in the Darkness” on Saturday, Sept.

11 at Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club, including a silent auction, dinner and a word from guest speaker, Author, Deanna Wilson. Individual tickets are available for $75, sponsorships start at $1,000 and underwriting opportunities begin at $400. If you would like tickets or more information our website is prcfortbend.com or you may contact Trina Powers at trina_prc@sbcglobal.net or 281232-2375.

to everyone, not only First Colony residents.

Visit www.firstcolony.org under Parks and Recreation for a complete list of fall programs, scheduling and pricing. To sign up for classes, call 281- 634-9555.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 28, 2010 for Riverway Estates Sec. 1, Partial Replat No. 1, Pct. 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, William B. Travis Bldg., 309 S. Fourth St., Rm. 700, Richmond, Texas. Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed partial replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing.

You may contact Joyce Owens with Owens Management Systems at 713643-6333 for information prior to the hearing.

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk 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, SEPTEMBER 23, 2010 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 10-123 – RANSOM ROAD (PHASE 1) FROM PILGRIM TO WILLIAMS WAY A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, August 9, 2010 at 10:00AM (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 vendors 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 bids.

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, SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 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 10-122 – FACILITIES ENERGY EFFICIENCY RETROFIT PROJECT #1; RFP 10-124 – PROPANE POWERED VEHICLE CONVERSION Payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are required for 10-122.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

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

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: DARRELL FRANCOIS 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 October 11, 2010 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be file d 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. We are located on the first floor of the courthouse building. The case is presently pending before the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on November 06, 2009. It bears cause number 09-DCV-176281 and is styled: The Bank Of New York Mellon Fka The Bank Of New York As Trustee For The Certificate holders Of CWABS 2004-05 V. Robert Francois, Jr., Jacquelyn Francois Lockett And Darrell Francois In Re: 8611 Quail Burg Lane, Missouri City, Texas 77489 The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: MARK G TORABI; J. MICHAEL LYTLE BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL LLP 15000 SURVEYOR BLVD SUITE 100 ADDISON TX 75001; ATTORNEY AT LAW 2116 THOMPSON HWY STE 116 RICHMOND TX 77469 972-386-5040; (281) 342-9119 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: PLAINTIFF THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATE HOLDERS OF CWABS 2004-05, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS BY AND THROUGH ITS ATTORNEY OF RECORD, MARK G. TORABI OF BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP, 15000 SURVEYOR BLVD., ADDISON, TEXAS 75001, 972-386-5040, BROUGHT SUIT AGAINST DEFENDANTS ROBERT FRANCOIS, JR., JACQUELYN FRANCOIS LOCKETT AND DARRELL FRANCOIS, TO ENFORCE ITS SECURITY INTEREST RESERVED TO PLAINTIFF AS MORTGAGEE IN THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 8611 QUAIL BURG LANE, MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS 77489 AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: LOT THREE (3), IN BLOCK TWO (2), OF QUAIL GLEN, SECTION ONE (1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 21, PAGE 16 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 24th day of August, 2010.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas Deputy District Clerk Sarah Storts 281-633-7635

No: 1O-DCV-180847 TIMOTEO PEREZ Plaintiffs, V DANIEL GOODWIN, KENNETH § QUENNEVILLE MD, ZINESH GOLANI, MALIKE GOLANI, and ANITA MULLER, Defendants IN THE DISTRICT COURT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT BRIEF FOR SERVICE OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT: COMES NOW, TIMOTEO PEREZ, Plaintiff in the above-entitled and numbered cause, and files this Brief for Service of Citation by Publication, pursuant to Rule 109 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure: THE STATE OF TEXAS - COUNTY OF FORT BEND TO: MALIK GOLANI whose residence and whereabouts are unknown. You have been sued. You may employ an attorney.

If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after service of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The original petition was filed on or about May 14, 2010, in the 240th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas. This Court has authority in this suit and may enter a judgment which will be binding on you.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said court at Richmond, Texas on this the 19th day of August, 2010.

No: 1O-DCV-180847 TIMOTEO PEREZ Plaintiffs, V DANIEL GOODWIN, KENNETH § QUENNEVILLE MD, ZINESH GOLANI, MALIKE GOLANI, and ANITA MULLER, Defendants IN THE DISTRICT COURT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT BRIEF FOR SERVICE OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT: COMES NOW, TIMOTEO PEREZ, Plaintiff in the above-entitled and numbered cause, and files this Brief for Service of Citation by Publication, pursuant to Rule 109 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure: THE STATE OF TEXAS - COUNTY OF FORT BEND TO: ZINESH GOLANI whose residence and whereabouts are unknown. You have been sued. You may employ an attorney.

If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after service of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The original petition was filed on or about May 14, 2010, in the 240th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas. This Court has authority in this suit and may enter a judgment which will be binding on you.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said court at Richmond, Texas on this the 19th day of August, 2010.

Honorable Annie Rebecca Elliot Fort Bend County District Clerk 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469

Honorable Annie Rebecca Elliot Fort Bend County District Clerk 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469

PUBLIC NOTICE FORT BEND COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TEXAS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FY 2008 SUPPLEMENTAL DISASTER RECOVERY FUND: HURRICANES DOLLY AND IKE NON-HOUSING ACTIVITIES ROUND 2 – PHASE 1 On November 26, 2008 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the allocation of $2.1 billion dollars in disaster recovery assistance to 13 States and Puerto Rico. The emergency funding is intended to help address unmet housing, economic and infrastructure needs following the natural disasters of 2008. HUD allocated the majority of the funding ($1.3 billion dollars) to the State of Texas. The emergency funding is provided through HUD’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and will support the State’s long-term disaster recovery. This is the second allocation of approximately $6.5 billion dollars appropriated by Congress immediately following Hurricane Ike. These funds can be used to address infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Ike. Fort Bend County expects to receive $473,290 in CDBG Disaster Program funds for non-housing activities.

All eligible activities must have documented proof of an impact by a major natural disaster declared in 2008. There must be a clear and compelling need related to a major natural disaster (Hurricane Ike) declaration, hurricane disaster relief, long-term recovery and/or restoration of infrastructure. All eligible activities will be allowed so long as the activity is directly related to Hurricane IKE through actual damage or a failure to function and is allowed under the State of Texas Plan Amendment No. 1 for Disaster Recovery. The potential project must benefit low and moderate income citizens. The number of low and moderate income beneficiaries must exceed 51 percent, according to HUD data, to be considered eligible.

A public meeting will be held on Friday, September 10, 2010, 10:00 a.m., at the Fort Bend County Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas to receive comments from the public regarding the use of these funds and to provide information to potential applicants. The public is encouraged to attend and to submit comments by September 20, 2010 to Marilynn Kindell, Community Development Director, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. Comments will be incorporated into the FY 2008 CDBG application, as appropriate. Persons with vision or hearing impairments or other individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids and services may contact the department at (281) 341-4410 regarding reasonable accommodations for the meeting.

Fort Bend County will use the Texas Community Development Block Grant Program 2008 Supplemental Disaster Recovery Fund: Hurricanes Dolly and Ike, Non-Housing Activities Application Round 2 as the County’s Request for Proposals (RFPs). The application and application guide will be available on Friday, September 3, 2010. These documents also are available on the County website: co.fort-bend.tx.us. Questions from applicants will be answered at the September 10 meeting. Proposals must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.

14, 2010. Potential applicants are urged to call Carol Borrego at (281) 341-4410 for more information.

PUBLIC NOTICE FORT BEND COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FY 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 CONSOLIDATED ACTION PLAN AMENDMENT Fort Bend County proposes to amend its approved FY 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 Consolidated Action Plans. The Consolidated Plan regulations at 24 CFR 91.505 state that a jurisdiction shall amend its approved plan whenever it makes one of the following decisions: (1) To make a change in its allocation priorities or a change in the method of distribution of funds; (2) To carry out an activity, using funds from any program covered by the consolidated plan (including program income), not previously described in the action plan; or (3) To change the purpose, scope, location, or beneficiaries of an activity.

In addition, Fort Bend County has identified in its citizen participation plan the criteria it uses for determining what constitutes substantial amendments that are subject to a citizen participation process, in accordance with the County’s citizen participation plan. The definitions and/or criteria for what constitutes a substantial change for the purpose of amending the consolidated plan are as follows: (1) Purpose: The purpose is substantially changed if the overall purpose for which a project is funded changes. Changing a specific objective without changing the overall purpose of the project will not be considered a substantial change.

(2) Scope: The scope is substantially changed if the original estimated cost of the project is increased by twenty percent or more.

(3) Location: The location is substantially changed if the service area of a project changes from the original service area.

(4) Beneficiaries: The beneficiaries are substantially changed if there is a change in type or the number is increased by twenty percent or more.

The Fort Bend County FY 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 Consolidated Action Plan Amendment is available for public review and comment. The public is encouraged to submit written comments by Monday, October 11, 2010 to Marilynn Kindell, Community Development Director, at 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. Comments will be incorporated into the Consolidated Action Plan Amendments, as appropriate.

FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM Funds are available to be reprogrammed from: FY 2001/2002 Four Corners Street Improvements FY 2004 Housing Rehabilitation FY 2004 FWSD No 2. Four Corners Water Improvements FY 2005 Kendleton Sanitary Sewer Line Replacement FY 2006 Pleak Comprehensive Plan FY 2007 5th Street Waste Management Program FY 2007 CDBG Program Administration FY 2007 Housing Rehabilitation Administration FY 2007 Richmond Water Improvements FY 2007 Rosenberg Sewer Improvements FY 2007 FB CORPS Home Minor Repair FY 2007 Arcola Sanitary Sewer Improvements FY 2008 Needville Sanitary Sewer Improvements FY 2008 Housing Rehabilitation Administration FY 2008 MUD No. 19 Sanitary Sewer Improvements FY 2008: CDBG Contingency Funds Total Available To Be Reprogrammed

$1,785.00 $65,776.00 $30,021.00 $5,134.00 $102.00 $3,816.00 $342.00 $3,024.00 $47,518.00 $1,144.00 $3,750.00 $75,247.00 $7,710.00 $110,000.00 $117,561.00 $15,000.00 $488,230.00

Projects to be funded are: FY 2007: Kendleton Wastewater Treatment Plant FY 2008: FBC Parks Department Arcola Community Center Total Reprogrammed Amount

$100,000.00 $388,230.00 $488,230.00

FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS EMERGENCY SHELTER GRANT (ESG) PROGRAM Funds are available to be reprogrammed from: FY 2008 FBC Social Services Department Homeless Prevention $22,215.00 Total Available To Be Reprogrammed $22,215.00 Project to be funded are: FY 2008 Parks Youth Ranch Operations Total Reprogrammed Amount

$22,215.00 $22,215.00

SEPTEMBER 8, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 7

Not just oil, Pennzoil

Austin High Marching Band and Angels Dance Team The Stephen F. Austin Marching Band and Angels Dance Team will defend their Bands of America Regional title on Oct. 9 in Conroe.

Last October, Austin was once again crowned the Bands of America Regional Champions in Pearland (a feat they have accomplished five times).

They went on to compete at the BOA Super Regional in San Antonio where they won first place in the AAA Division.

After competing in the BOA Regional Championship this season, Austin High School

will be the only Houston area representative to compete at the BOA Grand Nationals in Indianapolis, Indiana in November.

The BOA Grand National Championships is recognized as the premier marching band event in the nation.

These are opportunities the team is not taking lightly. “The level of focus and dedication by the band and dance team this season has been phenomenal,� said Austin Band Director Dustin Winson, “The alumni and fan support has been fantastic. Everyone

is pulling for these outstanding musicians and dancers. If effort is any indication, the team will be in top form and thrilling the crowds this competition season.�

Fort Bend ISD will present an evening of competitive marching exhibitions during its annual Band Night- featuring 11 band and dance teamson Monday, Oct. 4.

If you’d like to support the Stephen F. Austin Marching Band and Angels Dance Team, visit www.austinbulldogband. org

FAMILY HEART HEALTH FAIR at OakBend Medical Center SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 18TH

10AM - 2PM 1705 Jackson Street 5LFKPRQG 7;

‡ %ORRG 3UHVVXUH DQG *OXFRVH screenings available for the entire family; Cholesterol screenings for high risk individuals ‡ /LYH FRRNLQJ GHPRQVWUDWLRQV ‡ &KLOG LGHQWL¿FDWLRQ NLWV GLVWULEXWHG E\ WKH )RUW %HQG County Kids & Cops program ‡ 3+, $LU 0HGLFDO IDFH SDLQWLQJ health education and wellness information

PHYSICIAN EDUCATIONAL FORUMS

11:00 - 11:30 Dr. Sangeeta Saikia "Women's Heart Health"

11:45 - 12:15 Dr. Uttam Tripathy "Surgical Interventions for Heart Disease"

Rev up your engines with ‘tune up for life’

Ladies and gentlemen, rev up your engines and prepare for a morning of classics – from cars to music to men.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is hosting “Tune Up for Life� men’s health expo on Saturday, Sept.

11 from 9 a.m. until noon on the hospital grounds located at 17500 West Grand Pkwy.

Come enjoy 50s and 60s music while viewing classic cars and the newest vehicles from Legacy Ford in Rosenberg. Get fueled up with free food from Otto’s BBQ. Men will have the opportunity to tune up their bodies with free health checks that parallel their car care regimen. As part of the event, they can participate in a scheduled maintenance check that includes non-fasting cholesterol and glucose screenings, a PSA screening, heart check and more.

Be sure to pull into these stations during “Tune Up for Life�: Check Oil for a free blood pressure screening Chassis Check for an inspection of joints, knees and back Gas Emission Check to pick up a free colorectal screening kit to test for colorectal cancer at home This fun expo addresses the silent crisis in the health and

well-being of men by increasing knowledge about men’s health issues. It also provides a convenient opportunity for men to participate in health screenings that are proven to save lives. The health screenings are reserved for men, but women are encouraged to bring their husbands and male friends and enjoy the festivities.

Tune Up for Life� is free, but registration is required to make sure enough fuel and supplies are on hand. To register, please call 713-222-CARE (2273) or email tuneup@ memorialhermann.org. In the event of rain, the expo will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23.

12:30 - 1:00

September Yard of the Month goes to Acie Phillips of 3610 Elms Court. A certificate by the Quail Valley Garden Club and a plant from Flowers by Adela have been awarded this lovely garden. Acie continues to honor his late wife Carrie, who designed the garden, by planting her seasonal flower changes and keeping maintenance schedules. They were married 41 years, and starting in 1978, developed the garden together. It is an interesting mix on seasonal annuals, hollies that are shaped to enhance features of the home design, geometric shaped bushes and large Sago Palms.

Take a peek at the website or drive by! http://traction.typepad.com/ qvgc/yard-of-the-month.html

Dr. Mayank Parikh "Heart Disease: Treament and Exams"

AWARD WINNING CARE

www.oakbendmedcenter.org

FtBendSportsMedicine.com Enjoy your Sport - Decrease your Chances of Getting Hurt While I enjoy doing surgery, I have always believed the best approach to Sports Medicine is teaching my patients how to take care of themselves so they are less likely to get hurt in the first place. Why have surgery if you can avoid it?

The off-season is the time to prepare, and one size does not fit all. Let me evaluate your current physical conditioning and workout routine to help you develop a personalized training program to maximize your fitness for your sport.

THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON 14090 Southwest Fwy, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: (281) 491-7111 www.tomparrmd.net www.FtBendSportsMedicine.com

THE TIME IS NOW, THE WAIT IS OVER www.RemaxFine.com 281-265-5533 281-2655533 Highway 6 & Austin Parkway We Can Show You ANY House Listed!

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

CITY OF SUGAR LAND’S CURBSIDE RECYCLING PROGRAM Accepted Items:

Newspapers, Magazines, Catalogs, Phonebooks, Office Paper, School Paper, Mail

Cardboard, Paperboard and Paper Bags

NEW 2010 TOYOTA

COROLLA model # 1831 manual transmission.

Aluminum Cans, Foil, and Food Trays

Steel and Tin cans (Labels are ok)

Plastics #1-5, 7

Items not accepted include carbon paper, food waste, pizza boxes, plastic bags, styrofoam, and tissue products.

Need an additional recycle bin?

Residents can purchase additional recycle bins for $6.00 each. To request an additional bin, please visit the website and complete the Additional Bin Request Form and return with payment.

$

13,995

NEW 2011 TOYOTA

CAMRY model # 2513 manual transmission.

$

16,495 Photos for illustration purposes only. Must qualify for all incentives, rebates and discounts to receive sale price.

Rebates from TMS/GST. Plus tax, title and license. Dealer Fees included. See dealer for complete details.

281-275-2450

www.sugarlandtx.gov