Fort Bend Independent by Fort Bend Independent

VOL 2 No. 50

Phone: 281-980-6745

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2009

Hearts & Hammers Gala

Missouri City wins one round in the golf course litigation

On Friday, Feb. 5, 2010, at the Safari Texas Ranch the Fort Bend CORPS will be holding its second annual Hearts & Hammers Gala to raise funds for the organization. Half of the funds raised will go to fund the capital campaign, which will raise money for a permanent Fort Bend CORPS office and warehouse space. The other half will go to the Hearts & Hammers Program, which does the exterior restoration of homes within Fort Bend County. The Fort Bend CORPS is a nonprofit corporation. The CORPS was established in 1999 and has completed home repairs on over 1100 homes within Fort Bend County. All repairs are provided free of charge with no obligation. This assistance is made possible by grants, monetary donations, in-kind donations, as well as the unselfish and tireless work of hundreds of volunteers. The need for this program is great as there is currently a six month long waiting list of important and worthwhile projects within Fort Bend County. As this is the CORPS 10 year anniversary, the following founding members have agreed to be cochairs: Bob and Carole Brown, Herb and Emelia Appel, Bill and Susan Jameson, Barkley and Jill Peschel, and David and Sharon Sabom. Plan to join the evening of music, food and friends at this fantastic event. Above, the organizing committee members—Gary Pearson, left, Terrie Stuart, Cinnamon Fuentes (Event Cochair), Rochelle Hall (Event Cochair), Richard Logan, Chayo Huff, Jill Peschel, Barkley Peschel, Tom Stavinoha, Mazie Leftwich, Brandy Leonhart, rear left, Barb Piazzo, Judy Bartay, Susan Davis, Betty Baitland, Terrie Rowley. For tickets and sponsorship, call Mandi Bronsell at 281-282-7476.

HCC Southwest introduces weekend college Houston Community College Southwest launches its Weekend College in 2010. Students who have a fulltime, nine to five job can now take advantage of new hours at the West Loop and Stafford Campuses. HCC Southwest will be offering more classes on Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays. “In today’s tough econom-

ic times we want to make it more convenient for anyone to get a degree or specialized training,” says Dr. Fena Garza president of Houston Community College Southwest. “Everyone needs an education that will help them find and keep a job.” Classes range from Art Appreciation to Organic Chemistry and a full time (12 hour)

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

schedule can be completed on weekends. Workforce courses will also be offered including: Accounting, Computer Illustration and Digital Gaming along with many more. Classes begin January 19, 2010, and all core courses have been approved for transfer to four-year universities. For more information, visit southwest.hccs.edu

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Missouri City won the skirmish regarding Quail Valley Country Club’s motion to dismiss in the County Court at Law No. 4 on Thursday, Dec. 10. County Court at Law No. 4 Judge R. H. “Sandy” Bielstein denied the motion and promised a ruling on Missouri City’s right to take issue soon. Caroline Kelley, Missouri City attorney, said that QVCC’s motion for summary dismissal was based on the city’s motion requesting a partial summary judgment. The judgment was requested to decide on the city’s right to take the property and if so

at what value. Bielstein took the summary judgment motion under advisement at the Dec. 10 hearing where he also promised a ruling on the right to take issue, Kelley said. QVCC lawyers contested Missouri City’s right to take all 392 acres as necessary for the public interest. The city maintains it has that right because it is for public purposes -- specifically for park purposes, Kelley said. At the Dec. 10 preliminary hearing, the court also heard motions by both sides to exclude certain expert testimony. Decisions on that were postponed to Jan. 4, according to Kelley.

At the Dec. 7 meeting, the city council unanimously approved a resolution ratifying council’s prior actions considering acquisition of the QVCC property. Owners of QVCC have contended that there were “procedural irregularities” in the resolution R-08-09 council adopted on March 3, 2008. They claim the “irregularities” were that the four council members who live in Quail Valley had not filed affidavits stating they own homes in the vicinity of QVCC prior to voting to condemn. Lawyers for the city believe there “were no procedural irSee GOLF, Page 2

Delinquent tax collection contract elicits 4-1 vote By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County Commissioners Court last week renewed a contract with the law firm Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson for collection of delinquent taxes for three more years, over the objections raised by Commissioner Andy Meyers. Linebarger has been the county’s delinquent tax collector for more than a decade and the county has not issued a request for proposals from any other firm, especially because the contract was being renewed with Linebarger on a yearly basis.

Meyers proposed that the contract be renewed with Linebarger once again for a year, since the county has not solicited proposals from anyone. Meyers, having failed to restrict the contract for one year, instead of three years, proposed two more amendments, and again failed to get any support from others in the court. Under the existing contract, if the county chooses to terminate the contract with Linebarger, the county can keep the software for a maximum of six months and must pay

$20,000 a month. Meyers said that the county should have the option to keep the software for one year, instead of six months and the monthly fee be reduced from $20,000 to $2000. Meyers said Linebarger has a contract with Galveston County and the contract stipulates only $2,000 and allows its usage for one year. Why can’t Fort Bend County get the same term, especially because the number of tax accounts processed in Fort Bend is less than that of Galveston County? See TAX, Page 2

Early decisions lead to future success Bill Little was elected mayor in 1961, just a few years after the City’s incorporation on Dec. 29, 1959. He and his wife, Mary, came from Ohio looking for job opportunities in Sugar Land. He found one with Sugarland Industries. During those days, there weren’t many new people in the company town; they were the new kids on the block, but they would have a lasting impact on the City’s future. In those days, Sugar Land was still a company town, with Sugarland Industries operating everything from a cotton gin to the John Deere Tractor agency, a super market, a western auto store, a home and furniture store, a drug store and all the other necessities of life. The company had one charge account and ran its own credit agency. There were no credit cards; debts were deducted from paychecks, and itemized statements were provided at the end of every month. As Houston and surrounding areas grew, more and

more stores opened in the city, prompting the company to sell its stores to major retailers. It marked the beginning of a gradual transition from company town to City governance. Following incorporation, City Council asked Imperial Sugar for a building to turn into City Hall. The company provided a shoe store on Kempner Street that included one office and an additional room. The sugar company donated desks and chairs, and the local Lions’ Club provided additional furniture for the council table. As the City grew and became financially stronger, land was purchased on Brooks Street for the second City Hall. City growth was slow, but important early decisions laid the groundwork for future success. Little credits the first Council for its foresight to create a comprehensive plan that paved the way for zoning. The plan was the first of many that charted an orderly, planned and systematic development of the City.

The document built on the business plan of the company town’s founders, I.H. Kempner and W.T. Eldridge. During the early 60s, City Council obtained an urban renewal project from the Federal Housing Administration. Loans backed by Imperial Sugar enabled the removal of rundown houses to clear the way for newer homes with indoor plumbing. Homeowners paid their mortgages through payroll deduction to the sugar company. The project led to the growth of areas like Mayfield Park. City founders also had the foresight to provide park space. Lands donated by Imperial Sugar eventually become Baker Field Park – or just City Park. A pool was added in 1966, hence the beginning of City recreation in Sugar Land. A lot has changed since then. Sugar Land now maintains 18 neighborhood and community parks totaling more than 770 acres. (Sugar Land celebrates its 50th anniversary on Dec. 31.)

GIRLFRIENDS GIGGLE. The Fort Bend County Women’s Center and its STARS Auxiliary proudly announce the Title “Diamond Level” Sponsor for the 2010 Girlfriends Giggle fundraiser is renowned cosmetic surgeon, Dr. John LoMonaco of Houston. “Emerald” Sponsors for the event are Sterling McCall Lexus and OYO Geospace Corporation. Girlfriends Giggle will take place on Thursday, Feb. 4 at Fluor Corporation’s “Diva Den” from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m in Sugar Land. “The Women’s Center assistance and programs serve a large need in Fort Bend County helping domestic violence victims and their children achieve violence-free lifestyles and get back on their feet. Our committee of local women has worked passionately to build this event into Fort Bend County’s ultimate Girls’ Night Out, all for a great cause,” says Girlfriends Giggle Cochair, Josalyn Dean. Girlfriends Giggle, billed as a “Grown-up Girls’ Pajama Party,” is a night of local food and drinks, dancing, shopping and a variety of indulgences to pamper guests. The 5th Annual fundraiser is presented by the STARS Auxiliary of the Women’s Center. Proceeds benefit the women and children served by the Fort Bend County Women’s Center shelter and programs. In the past 28 years, the Center has assisted more than 28,000 women and children victims of domestic and sexual violence. For information on how to purchase tickets or to become an event sponsor, call Stefani Fitzgerald at 713515-5779. Above, Girlfriends Giggle Chairs, Fitzgerald, Josalyn Dean, Brooke Livingston, Nancy Piazza.

Children’s Emergency Center Now Open. childrensmemorialher mann.org • 713.222.CARE

Page 2 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 16, 2009

Bloody brawl reported at Stafford High

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By BARBARA FULENWIDER A sophomore and a junior at Stafford High School got into a row around 8:20 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, that got one helicoptered to Hermann Memorial Southwest with four screwdriver puncture wounds to his abdominal area. He was still hospitalized and recuperating on Monday. The incident between the two 17-year-old males occurred in a hallway while students were going to class. Superintendent H.D. Chambers said two teachers and an assistant principal broke up the fight and that one of the students involved was taken by helicopter to the hospital for safety reasons. Chambers said hospital officials told him Friday afternoon that the student’s injuries were minor and not life threatening. The three police officers provided to Stafford Municipal School District by the city of Stafford were all on duty

at various SMSD schools but none were at the high school when the incident occurred, Chambers said. One of the students will be dealt with by the legal system, according to the superintendent, and “the other young man is recovering. At the appropriate time we’ll make a decision about the proper punishment for each student,” he said. The student responsible for inflicting injuries on another was immediately placed in police custody. The district’s punishment will be based on the charges, Chambers said. The state mandates that if a student is charged with a felony then that student must be expelled to a county’s juvenile justice system. Immediately after the incident, Stafford High School students had to stay in their classrooms for an hour while police worked the crime. Classes resumed with additional security personnel

in place. Chambers said he’s received between 10 and 12 e-mails and phone calls from parents and residents who “thanked us for being open and honest about what happened. The fact that we were prepared for such an incident gave people confidence.” He also said he was attending a conference for superintendents in San Antonio when the fight occurred at Stafford High School, and that a consultant was presenting a program on how to deal with students who are prone to catastrophic incidents, such as occurred at Columbine High School in Colorado. Chambers said, “One thing the presenter said was that every day in the U.S. there are a reported 125 to 150 incidents just like what happened in Stafford. In Texas there are 50 such school incidents reported every day. They may involve a knife, a gun, a screwdriver. What districts have to do is be prepared for them.”

Tax From Page 1

the fact that Linebarger has provided a ‘free’ software to the county’s tax office and if anyone else is hired, the county has to pay for that software. Linebarger’s professional rival, Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott is said to have lobbied the commissioners court for an opportunity to bid for the contract. As Perdue could not convince a majority of the commissioners court to limit the contract renewal for one year instead of three years, it ap-

pears to have made no overt attempts to bid for the contract. Ironically, Perdue has been hired by Fort Bend ISD to collect its delinquent taxes. The county tax assessor-collector collects the school taxes. Perdue also collect delinquent taxes for Rosenberg, Meadows Place, Needville, and other school districts. Perdue also collects delinquent taxes for Brazoria County and the county pays the software costs to Linebarger.

them file the affidavits, a majority of the members of the governmental body will have filed the affidavits. “This will eliminate any argument concerning their right to vote on the matter.” The four council members who have stated they live in Quail Valley from the start of the city considering the possibility of acquiring the country club

property are Mayor Allen Owen and Councilmen Jerry Wyatt, Buddy Jimerson and Brett Kolaja. Kelley said lawyers for QVCC alleged that the action of council to declare eminent domain was void based on the fact that four city council members live in Quail Valley so their votes were conflicted. The case is set for trial on Jan. 26.

Meyers is also concerned that Fort Bend County is tied down by one vendor with its own software though that seems to be the situation all over Texas. Tax Assessor-Collector Patsy Schultz said she has been satisfied with Linebarger’s performance and no one disputed her opinion. Schultz’s reluctance to go out for proposals seems to be based on

Golf From Page 1 regularities” but that it was “advisable to eliminate any argument over those contentions by having city council act again to ratify and confirm its prior action.” Background information to council says that “if the four of

Building homes of quality and distinction for over 40 years.

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

DECEMBER 16, 2009 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • Page 3

Obituary

JAMES “JIM” HALL LORD, 70, of Sugar Land, passed away Friday, Dec. 11, 2009. He was born May 28, 1939, in St. Paul, MN, to John and Lillian Busian Lord. Jim graduated from Mandan High School, in Mandan ND, and attended the College of St. Thomas, in St. Paul, MN. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force, primarily serving in Glasgow, MT, during the Cold War era. Jim was a longtime employee of Control Data Corporation, Cray Research, and ExxonMobil. He was a founding parishioner and active member of St. Laurence Catholic Church, where he was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Jim was an instructor at Houston Community College, served as a PTO member, including President for E.A. Jones Elementary, and was involved in many other volunteer positions in the Fort Bend ISD. He was a Councilman in Missouri City in the 1970’s, and was a longtime member of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Sugar Land. Jim was a co-founder of First Colony Soccer, and was an active volunteer for the United Way, and the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. He was NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF FORT BEND § By virtue of an Order of Sale dated OCT 22, 2009 delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the COUNTY COURT AT LAW 2 of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of THE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OF THE HIGHLANDS plaintiff, and against MOHAMMAD IQBAL, defendant, in Cause No. 07-CCV-033178 for the sum of FOUR-THOUSAND-TWOHUNDRED-EIGHTY-TWO AND 01/100’s ($4282.01), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale. I did on the 30TH day of NOV, 2009, at 3:00 pm, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of Mohammad Iqbal, defendant(s), to-wit: LOT THIRTY –SEVEN (37), IN BLOCK THREE (3), OF THE HIGHLANDS, SECTION TWO (2) AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 22, PAGE 25, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, AND BEING MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2507 PLANTERS ROW, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77478. and on JAN 5, 2010, being the first Tuesday of said month, between the hours of 10:00 o’clock a.m. and 4:00 o’clock p.m., at the north entrance of the Fort Bend County Courthouse, in Fort Bend County, Texas, I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of IQBAL, MOHAMMAD, defendant, in and to said property. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE, RICHMOND, TX. 77469 DATE: JAN 5, 2010 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 AM BY: SERGEANT M. KUTACH TROY E. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

a “Commit for Life” Gold Level Donor and 100 Gallon Donor for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Jim enjoyed family camping throughout the U.S., international travel, playing with his grandchildren, and photography. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, James; and brother, Bill. Jim is survived by his wife, Marion C. Lord; son, Robert Lord and his wife Christy of Sunnyvale, CA; daughters, Jennifer Chesterman and her husband Bob of Sugar Land, Karen Voelkel and her husband Vince of Missouri City, and Christina Moreland and her husband Joey of Sugar Land; ten grandchildren, one greatgranddaughter, two step children; brothers, Mike Lord and his wife Shirley of Bismarck, ND, and John Lord and his wife Gladys of Williamsburg, VA; sister, Mary McAndrew and her husband Bill of Denton; mother-in-law, Clementine Belohlavek of Mandan, ND; sister-in-law, Loretta Lord of Bismarck, ND; former son-inlaw, Dan Hale of Houston; and numerous other loving relatives and friends. Visitation is on Tuesday evening, Dec. 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in The Morrow Chapel of The Settegast-Kopf Co. @ Sugar Creek (Williams Trace Exit), with a Rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 16, at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, with the Rev. Drew Wood, Celebrant. The Rite of Committal will follow at Woodlawn Garden of Memories, 1101 Antoine, Houston. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s name to Child Advocates of Fort Bend, (http://www.cafb.org/Donate/), 5403 Avenue N, Rosenberg, TX 77471, 281-341-9955.

Ex-deputy constable convicted for falsifying time sheet Alvetta Georgette Collier, 39, of Houston was convicted by a 400th District Court jury on Dec. 10 for falsifying county time sheets seven years ago. Collier billed Fort Bend County for time worked as a Precinct 2 Deputy Constable at the same time she worked an extra job in Houston from September 2001 to May 2002, Assistant District Attorney Rodolfo Ramirez said. The investigation started with a tip and lead to several people being charged with the same offense. The Texas Rangers investigated the matter and caught the defendant red-handed. “What makes this so egregious is that we look to law enforcement officers to provide us with security but she was robbing the taxpayers,” said Ramirez. “She was a public servant who broke our trust by violating the very laws she was sworn to enforce.” Collier was tried before Presiding Judge Clifford J. Vacek. She has elected for the court to assess her punishment at a hearing to be held on Jan. 25, 2010. Tampering with a government document in this case is a state jail felony punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and a fine up to $10,000. The defendant is probation eligible. Assistant District Attorneys Ramirez and Alex Foley prosecuted the case. Attorney John Dixon represented the defendant.

Princess Christmas at Fort Bend Theater Princess Christmas will play Dec. 5-20, Saturdays at 1:00 pm and 3 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 10 a.m. at Fort Bend Theatre, 2815 N. Main St in Stafford. This enchanting holiday musical written by playwright and FBT Executive Artistic Director, Tarra McCain, is sure to delight all ages. Tickets are only $8 and are available at www.fortbendtheatre.com or at the FBT box office M – F 9:30 – 3:30. For more information or group sales, call 281-208-3333.

Purchase MISTER HOTSHINE discounted car wash passes. Nice to give for holiday gifts or stocking stuffers to teachers, coaches, co-workers, etc. Full service passes ($12.49) good at the Lexington/Hwy 6 or any full service location. Express wash passes ($5) good at Dulles Ave. Either pass can be used towards an upgraded wash package at any full service location. Passes do not expire. 50 percent of all proceeds go to DHS ProGrad. Contact Paul Waddell at pwadell@chromalp.com or 832-453-7001

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First Colony/Sugar Land! Over 3100 sqft 4 bedrooms 3 full baths. Bedroom/bath down. Game room up. All new interior/exterior paint 2009! New carpet and tile 2009! Reduced to go in the $200’s and $5,000 in closing costs. Seller spent over $32K getting house ready to sell.

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Page 4 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 16, 2009

Opinion Texas Straight Talk The Fed’s money monopoly By RON PAUL Last week, in the name of protecting the little guy from Wall Street, the House passed HR 4173 to increase the little guy’s false sense of security in the financial system. This mammoth piece of legislation would massively increase government regulation and oversight in the banking industry under the misguided reasoning that more government could have stopped faulty lending practices, when in actuality it caused them. This bill would also greatly increase the powers of the Federal Reserve, which too many in Congress still see as savior rather than perpetrator in this mess. One silver lining is that the amendment to audit the Fed is still attached to the bill, and if it survives the Senate, the Fed will no longer operate in secrecy. If any version of HR 4173 becomes law, the Fed will be intervening and bailing out more rather than less, as it will gain enormous new powers in addition to those it already has. Whatever happens, the Fed and its defenders have seen that people are becoming very wary of its methods of operation, and many are downright angry at its very existence. Never again will the Fed be immune from the scrutiny of its critics. This is very positive. Because of legal tender laws that force acceptance of the dollar, the Fed has absolute power over the currency.

U.S. Rep. Ron Paul This absolute power is leading to the absolute corruption of our currency. The money supply has doubled in the last year or so, which is extremely dangerous. The banks seem to be hoarding liquidity now but once these dollars make their way into the economy, hyperinflation and economic chaos will be a real possibility. Every time hyperinflation rips through an economy, the middle class gets completely wiped out. It is very alarming to watch the purchasing power of an entire life savings reduced to that of a few pennies. Those savings represent years of real labor, real time, effort and sacrifice exchanged for corruptible pieces of paper that politicians and bankers can destroy at whim. Legal tender laws force the people to become subject to this risk for the benefit of the rulers. Artificial demand for

currency allows the authorities to create arbitrary amounts of it to pay for wasteful projects, like frivolous wars and an ever-expanding public sector. This saps the private economy of jobs and purchasing power, yet the temptation proves too great for politicians, time and time again. Our government is no different. Although our dollar has taken nearly a century to lose its purchasing power, the fact that we are all obliged to participate in this slow burn of the economy on pain of imprisonment is anathema to the principles of liberty. I introduced the Free Competition in Currency Act last week to free the people from these governmental threats. HR 4248 would repeal legal tender laws, prohibit taxation on certain coins and bullion, and repeal certain laws related to coinage. The prospect of people turning away from the dollar towards alternate currencies should provide incentive for Congress to regain control of the dollar and halt its downward spiral. Restoring soundness to the dollar will remove the government’s ability and incentive to inflate the currency and keep us from launching unconstitutional wars that burden our economy to excess. With a sound currency, everyone is better off, not just those who control the monetary system. (Ron Paul represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas.)

Musings: Let it Snowfest By JANICE SCANLAN And it really snowed before Missouri City Snowfest? Between going to Dickens on the Strand in Galveston and the Snowfest Parade and Festival, I’ve had plenty of time to get in the spirit and enjoy the season. I’ve still got more to do . . . but I’ll manage! This year for our Snowfest entry part of us walked the parade route, gave candy to the kids . . . and I was the “photo bee” taking pictures of the crowd. If you’re ever taking yourself too seriously and need to laugh and enjoy people, dress up in some outrageous get up and go photograph how people react. It’s hard for even Scrooge not to smile. And I even had a teenage boy dig it! And that’s the fun . . . before, during and after the parade. Adults and kids alike get to participate in various ways. The fantasy and being silly is just plain good for the soul. The wings our Quail Valley Garden Club entrants wore gave flight to our imaginations and creativity . . . and a bunch of old ladies as garden fairies, a bumble bee along with all the characters of various floats and troops, experienced the joy of the season. The tobogganing is wheeeee at the Snowfest festival . . . plus this year Pets Overboard was a hoot with

Scanlan trained dogs AND CATS that had all been rescued from shelters. The pet agility ring had the doggie dancers rockin’ out with fun, food and all kinds of activities. It’s good exercise for the trainers and pets. And all had their specialties. The Parks Department along with Public Works and Public Safety improved the venue this year. I’m glad more people are learning about this wonderful, free event for the family. If you missed it, don’t next year. Maybe it’s just the people I’m hanging with, but I’ve noticed an even greater generosity and giving of self as well to others. While our garden club members are always generous, we stretched even more this year with more toys and practical items for others

in need. Now, I’m not getting into Larry Harrison territory as a film critic . . . but he’s right on with his high rating of Invictus. John and I are still talking about this inspiring movie . . . of exceeding what we expect of ourselves. Nelson Mandela’s abilities to forgive and lead are awe inspiring. Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon and the other artists involved have provided a timeless movie that entertains about the best in all of us. As Mandela, Morgan Freeman described South Africa as a country hungry for greatness. And the movie showed what feeding that hunger did for a divided nation. Perhaps a little soul searching and forgiveness could benefit our divided nation. Yes, it’s fine to constructively disagree, but hatred is not constructive disagreement. Forgiveness is hard, but the peace and joy are worth the price. Let it Snowfest. Write to open.space@earthlink.net. Learn American Red Cross Community First Aid/CPR/ AED Adult, Child, and Infant CPR on January 9th, 8:30 am -5 pm. Pre-registration is required at www. houstonredcross.org or contact Monica at 281 3429480.

The View From Sugar Land Believe the actions, not the words By RUSSELL C. JONES The president gave two speeches last week which were designed to fend off criticism from his right with an eye toward repositioning himself in the center of the political spectrum as the 2010 elections approach. In the first, given at the Brookings Institution in Washington, the president began by calling for specific tax reductions on behalf of small business, with a promise to “work with Congress” to find other incentives to encourage small businesses to increase hiring. Some conservative commentators took this to mean that the tiger had changed his stripes. But six paragraphs later, he proposed to offer home improvements at government expense to individuals who retrofit their homes with energy-efficient products. While that latter goal sounds admirable, consider that “government expense” means “taxpayer expense” and that in turn means higher taxes for small business and those individuals who actually pay income taxes. On the whole, it sounds like small business broke even in the speech. If those proposals actually make it to congress for consideration, you can guess whether it is more likely that congress will approve a tax break for business or a new entitlement program for potential Democrat voters. The second speech was the acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo. Numerous conservative commentators thought they had heard a moderation of the president’s insistence upon relinquishing America’s role as a world

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Diane Parks Graphic Artist

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leader and negotiation with hardline enemy governments. Contrary to some interpretations, the president did not describe Afghanistan as a “just war,” as Sarah Palin thinks she heard. Nor did he call al Qaeda “evil” as Karl Rove suggested. A close reading of the speech finds a brief history of so-called just wars followed by a few strong words on the need for international cooperation in the war in Afghanistan, with several carefully crafted rhetorical ambiguities interlaced for effect. While the president acknowledged the occasional need for the United States to take a leadership role on international issues of particular concern, he made it clear that his preference would be submission to decisions of the United Nations on most questions of international policy. The problem of course is that it is difficult to tell whether the perceived tilt to the middle of the political spectrum, if there was any, represents the campaigning Obama, or the real Obama, who has shown his true colors

Shin Splints: Pain in the lower leg By THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. You’ve heard the term “shin splints.” You may have even used it to describe your own lower leg pain. But did you know that “shin splints” really is a catch-all term to describe three different painful conditions of the lower leg? The most common “shin splint” condition is Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), which is pain along or on either side of the shin. It often develops because an athlete, whether recreational or competitive, starts increasing jogging, running, dancing, or similar physical training too fast. Coaches really want their athletes to start preseason training at least six weeks before the start of the season because trying to “catch up” too late will lead to a variety of poor conditioning injuries, including MTSS. MTSS also can develop by trying to extend distance or the amount of time in a training session too fast, such as suddenly deciding to go from walking two miles to running/ jogging five miles. Expanding time and distance needs to be done very gradually. Training on surfaces which are too hard, including paved roadways or concrete, may also contribute to your lower

The Medicare Way: “A match made by law” 10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487

Jones

in the 10 months since the beginning of his administration. The campaigning Obama made many promises, few of which have actually been seen to date (other than “change,” of course). Do you remember the repeated promises of transparency in government, including promising at least four times to broadcast the health care debate on C-SPAN? Not only has there been no televising of the debate, most decisive meetings have been held behind closed doors with only a few individuals present, the identity of all of whom has never been fully revealed. Do you remember the repeated promises of bipartisanship and “uniting Americans” on all legislative matters, especially health care? There has not been a single substantive meeting on health care in the house of representatives, the senate or the White House at which Republicans were invited to participate. Do you remember when candidate Obama described government run health care as extreme? Despite what Democrats say about the current bill in the senate, the so-called co-op plan looks and smells like it will have the same effect. Caution! Don’t be lulled to sleep by a seeming moderation of Obama’s far left positions by a few well scripted words. The nation cannot afford to make that mistake again. Jones is the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Sugar Land and serves as Councilman for District 3. He was first elected to the City Council in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.

The end of this month, Dec. 31st marks the end of Medicare open enrollment period. All Medicare advocates, such as, the Medicare Rights Center advise seniors to review their Medicare plans especially their Medicare Drug plan. According to the Senior News(2009), 60% of the plans will change and increase their deductible in 2010. In addition, there are 8 things you should consider when choosing or changing your Medicare coverage.(Medicare and You, 2009) For example; 1) Coverage (Original Medicare vs. Medicare Health Plan; 2) Other Coverage you may have; 3) Cost (premiums / deductibles; 4) Doctor and hospital choice; 5) Prescription Drugs; 6) Quality of Care; 7) Convenience; 8) Travel. This is only a brief reference to the list that is found in your “Medicare and You” guide published by the Department of Health & Human Services. By referring to this guide and reviewing you coverage you can rest assured you are covered for the upcoming year. Happy Holidays! Nate Howard, Health Pro Resources (Healthproresource.com)

Thomas Parr leg pain. Try training on a softer surface to see if it will help. Look at your shoes. While they may not look like they are ready for the trash, they may be too worn out to provide protection cushioning and support, or they may not be appropriately designed for the unique characteristics of your foot, your running style, or your body type. Two much more serious “shin splint” conditions are Stress Fractures and Exercise Induced Compartment Syndrome. Neither should be ignored and both can be tricky to diagnose. In the early stages, stress fractures will not show up on x-ray because they are really microscopic cracks in the tibia and fibula as a result of constant, extremely forceful landings in “jump” sports like tennis, volleyball, basketball, and dance or continuous hard striking of the ground while running or jogging. Continuing to play your sport, and thus continuing to do additional damage to the bones in the lower leg, will aggravate these cracks even more. In very serious situations, they could develop into full-blown fractures. You will need to switch to non-impact training, such as swimming or bicycling, until these microscopic cracks have completely healed. A good diagnosis will involve your orthopedic surgeon

getting a thorough history and doing a specific physical exam of the painful region of your leg. If you have a competition coming soon where timing is important, your orthopedic surgeon may want to obtain a bone scan to see if more precise information can be determined. Poor diet, including a lack of calcium, or hormonal changes could also be contributing to stress fractures, and may need to be evaluated as well. This is especially true for women. Exercise Induced Compartment Syndrome is not as common, but is equally as serious and should be evaluated by your orthopedic surgeon. The lower leg has nerves, blood vessels, and three different muscle sections. If one or more of these muscle compartments becomes too swollen with fluid during exercise but cannot expand appropriately, it will cause too much pressure to be put on the muscle tissues in the leg, as well as to the nerves and blood supply to the foot. The lower leg muscles can become extremely cramped and painful. The foot can become numb, tingling, weak, or cold. To diagnose Exercise Induced Compartment Syndrome, the pressures inside the muscle compartments of the lower leg are measured before and after exercise. If the pressure increases too much, then a surgical procedure, called a fasciotomy, can be done to allow the muscles enough room to expand and still allow the blood supply and nerve cells to function properly. Dr. Thomas Parr, an orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land, can be reached at 281-4917111. Visit www.tomparrmd. net for more information.

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2006 GMC SIERRA 1500 ONYX BLACK CREW CAB SL2 315063 Classic Chevrolet 45,971 miles 877-351-3803 $16,769

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2009 Cadillac DTS Crystal Red 4-dr sedan 138220 Classic Chevrolet 3,868 miles 877-351-3803 $33,912

2009 Buick LaCrosse CXL Dark Slate 243984 Classic Chevrolet 15,911 miles 877351-3803 $19,350

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2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Black LS 2dr 869487 Classic Chevrolet 40,287 miles 877351-3803 $6,988

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

2008 Chevrolet Corvette Black 134389 Classic Chevrolet 800 miles 877-3513803 $42,988

2009 Chevrolet Impala Silver 212151 Classic Chevrolet 14,484 miles 877-351-3803 $14,988

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

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

2008 Chrysler Sebring LX Conv. White 209556 Classic Chevrolet 43,424 miles 877351-3803 $12,956

2005 MINI Cooper Jet Black hatchback L12033 Classic Chevrolet 56,568 miles 877351-3803 $14,988

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

2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LS Onyx Black 305706 Classic Chevrolet 61,680 miles 877351-3803 $12,988

2004 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Silver 164890 Classic Chevrolet 47,720 miles 877-3513803 $19,988

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

2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT White 127951 Classic Chevrolet 319 miles 877-351-3803 $41,988

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2004 Nissan Altima 4Dr Pewter 113299 Classic Chevrolet 93,911 miles 877-3513803 $8,988

2006 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4Dr Lt. Gray 840317 Classic Chevrolet 40,636 miles 877351-3803 $16,575

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2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT1500 DBlue 159311 Classic Chevrolet 42,484 miles 877-351-3803 $24,988

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ Black 174015 Classic Chevrolet 2,819 miles 877351-3803 $38,988

2002 Mazda MPV LX Mini Van Blue 321843 Classic Chevrolet 156,329 miles 877-351-3803 $5,988

2008 Nissan Altima 2.5SL 4Dr Tan 502920 Classic Chevrolet 14,218 miles 877351-3803 $18,488

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Gray 151373 Classic Chevrolet 5,002 miles 877-351-3803 $37,100

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Silver 129692 Classic Chevrolet 4,769 miles 877-351-3803 $39,988

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2008 Ford Ranger XLT Super Cab Black A38558 Classic Chevrolet 23,056 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HDWhite 215477 Classic Chevrolet 26,150 miles 877-351-3803 $36,988

2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500LS Pewter 339575 Classic Chevrolet 72,074 miles 877-351-3803 $8,988

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2009 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Red 119610 Classic Chevrolet 32,015 miles 877351-3803 $33,988

2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Gray 103518 Classic Chevrolet 16,411 miles 877-3513803 $34,888

2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Red 247800 Classic Chevrolet 28,787 miles 877351-3803 $18,988

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

2008 Chevrolet Express Ext. Van White 177235 Classic Chevrolet 33,150 miles 877351-3803 $19,688

2008 Ford F-150 Lariat White B17879 Classic Chevrolet 35,401 miles 877-3513803 $29,988

2004 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 White 298298 Classic Chevrolet 88,862 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988

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

2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLE Z71 Red 160926 Classic Chevrolet 29,051 miles 877351-3803 $39,988