March 2009 Houston Business Connections Newspaper

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Aubrey R.Taylor’s

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AMERICAN HISTORY IS BEING WRITTEN RIGHT NOW...AND WE WANT TO INCLUDE YOU! • Email: news@peopledoingbusiness.com • CONTACT: 832.212.8735

Don’t Quit!

“History reminds us that at every moment of economic upheaval and transformation, this nation has responded with bold action and big ideas.” — U.S. President Barack Obama OPINIONS

The Remarks of President Barack Obama — Address to Joint Session of Congress ON PAGE 9: In her editorial for this month, CEO, Gina Parker Ford says: “Big Brother has lost his mind; and the government has gone wild.”

BUSINESS

ON PAGE 18: McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP announces that Thomas Jones Jr., one of its founding partners has been named chairman of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Minority Task Force.

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adame Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, and the First Lady of the United States: I’ve come here tonight not only to address the distinguished men and women in this great chamber, but to speak frankly and directly to the men and women who sent us here.

I know that for many Americans watching right now, the state of our economy is a concern that rises above all others. And rightly so. If you haven’t been personally affected by this recession, you probably know someone who has - a friend; a neighbor; a member of your family. You don't need to hear another list of statistics to know that our economy is in crisis, because you live it every day. It’s the worry you wake up with and the source of sleepless nights. It’s the job you thought you’d retire from but now have lost; the business you built your dreams upon that’s now hanging by a thread; the college acceptance letter your child had to put back in the envelope. The impact of this recession is real, and it is everywhere.

PRESIDENT on page, P.12

INDUSTRY SEE THE COMPLETE C-SPAN VIDEO?: VISIT: WWW.PEOPLEDOINGBUSINESS.COM TO VIEW THE ENTIRE VIDEO ON OUR HOMEPAGE.

We Media/Zogby Poll: Most Americans Believe Small Business, Science, and Tech Leaders Will Lead the U.S. to a Better Future

ANNOUNCEMENT: At PHA, Wade Battles, the PHA Managing Director has been appointed acting executive director by the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority.

Survey finds Americans deeply dissatisfied with the leadership potential of the news media, government, and large corporations

lead the U.S. to a better future and they are significantly less hopeful the news media, government or large corporations will do the same, a new We Media/Zogby Interactive poll shows.

FLORIDA — Most Americans are putting their faith in small business owners, entrepreneurs, and science and technology leaders to

Who will lead us to a better future?

Nearly two-thirds of and business leaders (21%), or Americans (63%) said small busi- traditional news media such as ness and entrenewspapers, preneurs will television, INFORMATION lead the U.S. to radio, and a better future, magazines while 52% said the same of sci- (13%). Americans think leaderence and technology leaders. ship toward a better future is more Americans are far less optimistic about the leadership of governPOLL on page, P.18 ment (31%), large corporations

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Publisher’s Notice!

Unemployed Texans Granted Additional $25 Per Week in UI Benefits TWC Will Automatically Increase Payments to Eligible Claimants he Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has announced a $25 increase to weekly unemployment benefits for individuals currently receiving payments. The increase was part of the economic stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by President Barack Obama.

The legislation provides an increase of $25 per week for eligible Texans receiving unemployment benefits as of February 22, 2009.

Claimants will see the additional benefits beginning mid-March.

Eligible claimants who are currently receiving benefits will receive the increase retroactive to February 22. The increase is effective for initial claims filed through December 26, 2009.

The federally funded increase applies to all types of unemployment benefits, and employers will not be charged the additional funds.

Claimants do not need to call or take any additional action to receive the additional amount; however, they should continue requesting payment as scheduled. TWC administers unemployment benefits to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own and are actively seeking work.

Claimants may receive further information online through www.texasworkforce.org or by using our e-mail form. A TWC staff member will call you back within 48 hours.

T

The Person to See™ is a visionary. he Person To See thinks in extraordinary terms, defining what is possible as opposed to accepting what the crowd thinks is reasonable.

The Person To See sees opportunities others don't and his/her ideas often transform his/her industry, community and the world!

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ENTREPRENEURS CREDO I do not choose to be a Common man It is my right to be UNCOMMON...If I can I seek Opportunity - not Security I do not wish to be a kept citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me.

I want to take the “Calculated Risk” to Dream and to Build, to fail and to SUCCEED. I refuse to barter incentive for a dole.

I prefer the challenges of Life to the “Guaranteed existence”, the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of Utopia.

I will not trade FREEDOM for Beneficence nor my dignity for a handout.

I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.

It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid, to think and act for myself, to enjoy the benefit of “MY CREATIONS” and to face the world boldly and say: “This with God’s help, I have done.

All this is what it means to be a ENTREPRENEUR”

AUBREY R. TAYLOR This (www.peopledoingbusiness.com) Newspaper is published

by AUBREY R. TAYLOR. All right reserved. No articles may be copied, rewritten, published, or otherwise distributed without the prior written approval of the publisher. For special requests please call: 832.783.1113 or call the publisher directly at: 832.212.8735.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett Reveals His Vision for The County in 2009 Emmett Vows Harris County Will Not “Slip Under the Waves” Of Economic Turmoil TEXAS — Harris County Judge Ed Emmett said recently that Harris County remains in “very healthy” condition despite a precarious national and worldwide economy, and he predicted the county would remain on solid financial footing throughout 2009, thanks to its conservative economic leadership.

“Who knows what the coming year will bring, but I can guarantee you that Commissioners Court and EMMETT the county’s financial managers will not allow this county to slip under the waves of economic turmoil,” Emmett told the crowd of 1,200 gathered at the Greater Houston Partnership’s annual State of the County Address. “The four commissioners have a combined 68 years of experience. The county’s budget office, headed by Dick Raycraft since its inception 27 years ago, has always taken a fiscally responsible approach, and that approach will no doubt continue.”

Emmett, who was appointed county judge in March 2007 and elected in November, used his speech to the region’s community leaders to call for a heightened level of cooperation across party lines and governmental borders. He called for the area’s leaders in state, county and city governments to work together to solve the region's transportation, health care and environmental challenges. Given the area's natural and economic advantages, he said, there is every reason to believe that effort will be successful.

The root of that economic success, Emmett said, also lies in regional cooperation.

“Harris County, while itself a complex government organization, is part of a larger whole,” he said. “No matter what the state of Harris County is at this moment, our future condition is inextricably tied to others. We must act cooperatively with the wide range of entities in our region to make sure that the state of all of us remains sound.”

Brilliant Steps Down as Google.org Head Larry Brilliant, executive director of Google.org, has announced on the organization’s blog that he no longer will manage the company’s philanthropic arm. The three-year-old organization also indicated that in the future it likely will only fund organizations whose work closely aligns with the for-profit company's mission to leverage information and technology to address global challenges.

“I am most effective in helping to BRILLIANT identify ‘big ideas’ and potential partners, as well as raising awareness about society’s biggest challenges,” wrote Brilliant, who will become Google’s “chief philanthropy evangelist.” “I hope to be able to spend more time motivating policy makers, encouraging public and private partnerships, and generally advocating for the changes that we must make as a global society to solve these problems.”

Megan Smith, vice president of new business development at Google, has been named general manager of Google.org and will be responsible for its day-today management.

Aligning Google.org more closely with Google as a whole will ensure that “Dot-Org,” as the organization is referred to within Google, is better able to build innovative, scalable technology and information solutions, Brilliant noted. An internal review of the organization’s work over the past three years revealed that its greatest impact came from supporting efforts that make the most of Google’s strengths in technology and information, including Flu Trends, an application that tracks certain search terms to track flu outbreaks, and RechargeIT, an initiative designed to reduce CO2 emissions by accelerating the adoption of plug-in electric vehicles.

While Google.org has donated more than $100 million to efforts in the areas of global health, clean energy,

and access to information, it has been criticized by some for emphasizing a business approach to philanthropy and a belief that engineering alone can solve the world’s problems. In an earlier interview with the New York Times, Siva Vaidhyanathan, a professor at the University of Virginia, warned that “the habits and ideology of the company will lead the philanthropy rather than the needs of the communities or the planet.”

The change in leadership at Google.org will not affect Google’s level of investment in the nonprofit sector. “We stand behind the commitment made in 2004 to devote 1 percent of Google’s equity and profits to philanthropy,” Brilliant wrote, “and we will continue to iterate on our philanthropic model to make sure our resources have the greatest possible impact for good.”

COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF TEXAS: Gov. Perry addressing the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Day luncheon.

Gov. Perry: We Should Reduce the Weight of Government on Texas Business Supports raising small business tax exemption; replenishing incentive funds USTIN — Texas Gov. Rick Perry recently addressed National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Day luncheon expressing his support of small business in Texas, including the idea of raising the business margins tax exemption to $1 million.

“I think we can do more to make Texas the best option for companies that employ Texans, which should include taking a close look at the reformed business tax we implemented a few years ago,” said Gov. Perry. “I support raising the small business exemption to $1 million but also look forward to hearing what our legislators have to say. We need to do everything we can to reduce the weight of government so that employers can have the breathing room they need to make it through these uncertain economic times.”

The governor additionally reiterated his commitment to maintain reasonable taxes and regulations, and pursue fiscal responsibility as the state works to balance the budget for the upcoming biennium in order to enhance Texas’ competitive edge in the current national economic downturn.

“I am committed to working with our legislators to keep Texas living within its means, continuing our adherence to proven fiscal principles and making tough choices,” said Gov. Perry. “It may not be the most popular course, but it is the wisest and will keep Texas strong in the months and years to come.”

In his remarks, Gov. Perry also emphasized the need to continue investing in state incentive programs like the Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) and the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) which are powerful tools in the state’s efforts to create jobs, and commercialize technology and research in Texas. Since 2003, TEF has generated more than 53,800 jobs and $14 billion in capital investment; and since 2005, ETF has invested approximately $53 million in 54 early-stage companies and 16 universities, and attracted more than 45 world-class researchers.

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Zogby Poll: Just 27% Believe They Will Benefit From Economic Stimulus Bill Survey finds likely voters favor proposals from Democrats over those from Republicans, but 23% have little confidence in ideas from either party

Tee Up For A Good Cause The UH Bauer College of Business Alumni Association is looking to score another hole in one with its 2009 Ted Bauer Golf Classic, which will be held on May 18 at Champions Golf Club in Houston.

Last year, the event raised more than $30,000 for student scholarships. Participants in this year's tournament have many sponsorship opportunities,

will not play in the tournament but funds one scholarship) and global foursomes (a team that plays on the course of its choice and supports one scholarship).

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NEW YORK — Just 27% of likely voters are optimistic the recently passed federal economic stimulus bill will personally benefit them or their family, a new Zogby Interactive poll shows.

More than half - 56% - are doubtful the stimulus package will personally help them, and another 17% are unsure. While nearly half of Democrats (48%) believe they will benefit from the stimulus, few political independents (19%) and even fewer Republicans (7%) believe they will be helped. The vast majority of Republicans (88%) and most independents (62%) remain skeptical they personally stand to gain from the new stimulus bill, compared to just 26% of Democrats who said the same. Higher levels of optimism for the stimulus bill were found among the youngest adults, age 18-24, who were more likely (38%) than older adults to believe it would benefit them or their family. Just 16% of those age 65 and older felt the same. The Zogby Interactive survey of 1,474 likely voters nationwide was conducted Feb. 23-24, 2009, and was completed before President Barack Obama’s address to a joint meeting of Congress on the state of the U.S. economy. It carries a margin of error of +/- 2.6 percentage points.

Democrats seen as having better economic stimulus ideas than Republicans, but many remain dissatisfied with proposals from both sides of the aisle Overall, more than a third of likely voters (36%) said they believe proposals from Democrats to stimulate the economy have been better than ideas offered up

by Republicans (27%) - but nearly one in four (23%) said neither party had offered up the better ideas. It comes as no surprise that majorities of both Republicans and Democrats believe their own parties have offered the best ideas, but political independents are split, giving slight preference to ideas from Democrats (29%) over those brought up by Republicans (24%).

These political independents are also more than twice as likely (41%), compared to Democrats (13%) and Republicans (20%), to say neither party has offered the better ideas to stimulate the economy.

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CANDIDATES TO WATCH New Poll: Annise Parker Opens Early Lead in Houston Mayor’s Race, Name ID and positive image give Parker a “$1 million - $2 million advantage” over opponents according to a recently released poll by Parker’s Polling Firm, Lake Research Partners The Annise Parker for Mayor campaign released the results of a new poll recently that show Parker with a significant lead in the Mayor’s race.

“City Controller Annise Parker is the clear front runner and a strong favorite to make the runoff. Parker is better known than any declared candidate, better liked, and receives solid job performance ratings,” according to Parker’s polling firm, Lake Research Partners.

“Annise starts the race with a one to two million dollar advantage over her opponents. Annise’s opponents, all much lesser known, will have to spend a vast part of their war chests simply to gain name recognition. Meanwhile, Annise will be using resources to grow her advantage, building on her already strong lead and image,” said Cynthia Miller and Dean Rindy of Rindy Miller

bined. Half were undecided (53%).

The information released by Parker’s campaign is contained in a pair of memos from Parker’s polling firm, Lake Research Partners, and her media firm, Rindy Miller Media. Both are available for download on her web site.

Annise Parker currently serves as Houston’s City Controller, directing Houston’s financial investments and managing billions of tax dollars.

Prior to her public service, Parker worked for 20 years in Houston’s oil and gas industry. Learn more at www.AnniseParker.com.

GENE LOCKE

ANNISE PARKER

LOCKE served as Houston’s City Attorney under former Mayor Bob Lanier. He is currently a partner with Andrews and Kurth for the past decade.

PARKER is currently the only candidate with a video message on our website. The other candidates will be posted when messages are received.

BROWN is currently an AtLarge City Council Member and prominent architect and urban planner. Brown is a third-generation Houstonian.

LEGAL PROBLEMS? PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS! FAMILY LAW DIVORCE CUSTODY CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENTS PATERNITY ADOPTION PROBATE

Peter Brown Accepted the Endorsement From Over 100 Houston Area Religious Leaders back in October of 2008 HOUSTON — Last October the Reverend William A. Lawson joined Bishop James Dixon II and dozens of other ministers and bishops in backing Houston City Council Member Peter Brown for Mayor in 2009.

The announcement took place in front of the Houston Garden Center in Hermann Park where family and friends gathered to hear the Reverend Lawson, Bishop Dixon and Council Member Brown speak.

PETER BROWN

ATTORNEY/MEDIATOR

Family Matters Media, Parker’s media consultants.

The poll we really care about is the one conducted on Election Day,” said Parker’s campaign manager, Adam Harris. “But these numbers are significant because they show that Annise Parker’s opponents are already behind and have a long way to go to catch up.”

The poll shows that more than half of voters have heard of Parker and she has a six-to-one favorable ratio among those voters who can rate her (44% favorable to just 7% unfavorable). Parker also receives solid job performance ratings that are more than two-to-one positive.

Half of voters (46%) rate her performance as City Controller either excellent (13%) or good (33%).

Only 19% are critical (just fair/poor).

When poll participants were asked whom they supported for mayor at the beginning of the poll (before hearing information about the candidates), almost one third supported Parker (29%), while 18% support all other candidates com-

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FOR WOMEN

ECONOMY & UPCOMING EVENTS

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Financial Bailout For Women; New Organization Rescues Women From Economic Crisis SOUTHFIELD — In harmony homeowners struggling to pay with President Obama’s stimulus their monthly mortgage paypackage, The Women's Debt Help ments, and are single mothers Center (WDHC) - an organization who are not receiving child supin the Detroit area - has launched port. Even worse, more women an exclusive “Bailout For Women” than ever before are resorting to program that helps welfare and other women reduce or forms of governMICHIGAN eliminate their ment assistance. financial debt through debt setDebt settlement is an honortlement. able option for women who are On February 18, 2009, tired of fighting the losing battle President Obama activated a against late fees and interest. $787 billion economic-stimulus WDHC’s “Bailout For Women” package to help struggling program is the first of its kind, Americans - one of the biggest and is already helping thousands economic-rescue efforts in U.S. of women settle and alleviate history. He also established the their debt from major credit White House Office of Urban cards, medical bills, phone bills, Affairs “to bring long-overdue payday loans, and more. attention to the urban areas, where 80 percent of the American people live and work.”

Obama’s plan, designed to help American families, will especially benefit the women in this country. Millions of women are more than $10,000 in debt, are

ATTENTION ALL LADIES: In harmony with President Obama’s stimulus package, The Women's Debt Help Center (WDHC) — an organization in the Detroit area — has launched an exclusive “Bailout For Women” program that helps women reduce or eliminate their financial debt through debt settlement. For more details, women interested in this unique program should visit: www.BailoutForWomen.com

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OPINION

PROVIDED BY CONGRESSMAN GREEN

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CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN APPLAUDS PRESIDENT'S “BOLD VISION FOR THE FUTURE” IN ADDRESS TO JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS Address lays out plans for addressing the housing crisis, jumpstarting the economy, and reducing the federal deficit WASHINGTON, DC -Congressman Al Green recently applauded President Obama’s first-ever address to a joint session of Congress, in which the president laid out an expansive vision for the coming years, including plans for addressing the foreclosure crisis, for ensuring that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is used efficiently and effectively, and for taking aggressive action to deal with the long-term challenges facing the country.

“I am pleased that President Obama used this occasion to lay out a bold vision for the future that described plans for overcoming the numerous and severe challenges facing our country today,” said Congressman Green. “At this difficult time, it is imperative that those in leadership positions demonstrate toughness and a willingness to take on the problems confronting us, and I believe that the president did that today.”

In his address to the joint session, President Obama outlined plans for implementation of the recently-enacted American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. According to a recent analysis by the Council of Economic Advisors, this bill will save or create at least 3.5 million jobs over the next two years. Texas in particular will benefit greatly from the bill, which will create or save 269,000 jobs in the state, including 8,000 jobs in the 9th Congressional District alone.

Additionally, over eight million Texas workers will benefit from a new “Making Work Pay” tax credit, while the Houston Independent School District will receive over $100 million in new funding.

According to Congressman Green, “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a major step forward in the effort to get our economy back on track and to help the millions of people on Main Street who have suffered the negative impacts of this recession. I was pleased to hear the president discuss his plans to make sure that this bill is used in a timely fashion to get millions of people back to work.”

Congressman Green also praised President Obama’s assessment for the need for action to reinvigorate the housing market. President Obama proposed a Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan last week that would help four to five million responsible homeowners refinance to make their mortgages more affordable, implement clear guidance for servicers to provide loan modifica-

tions, and increase funding for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to strengthen confidence and help lower mortgage rates.

“In his address, President Obama made a cogent case for the need for quick and decisive action to right the housing market. The foreclosure crisis precipitated the broader credit crisis that we are now encountering. I believe that helping homeowners is a critical piece in getting our economy back on track.

We in Congress stand ready to work with the president to do what is necessary to help homeowners and get the housing market moving again,” said Congressman Green.

Finally, Congressman Green praised President Obama’s dedication to overcoming the longterm challenges facing the country, including skyrocketing

health care costs, the large federal budget deficit, the need for energy independence, and the need to improve our education system to meet the needs of a 21st century workforce.

“Even as we confront many pressing challenges, we cannot afford to push these long-term issues off further into the future. I am heartened that President Obama demonstrated the foresight to keep these issues high on the priority list.

We must fix our health care system, create a clean energy economy for the future that makes us energy independent, strengthen our education system, and make sure that the federal government spends funds wisely-for our children, for our grandchildren, and for the future of this great nation,” said Congressman Green.

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EDITORIALS

FROM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

GOVERNMENT

By Gina Parker Ford President and CEO

Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D., M.B.A. President and CEO

We Can No Longer Afford to Put Health Care Reform on Hold

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he same day that President Obama told Congress “we can no longer afford to put health care reform on hold,” a pair of separate, significant reports affirmed health care’s tight connection to our weakening economy.

Early that morning, the journal Health Affairs published on its Web site projections that U.S. health care spending in 2009 is likely to reach its highest share ever of the nation's economy. Mid-day, just a few hours before the president's speech, the Institute of Medicine reported that more people will lose their health coverage this year, putting the health of families and entire communities at risk.

That evening, both President Obama and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, the Republican responder, made it clear: We can't fix the economy without fixing health care at the same time. We agree. And we are encouraged that the country’s next step toward reform begins with such strong bipartisan recognition of this essential reality.

The president proposes action on elements the Foundation and our grantees have long worked to achieve, such as: * A national commitment to comprehensive reform; * Quality, affordable care for every American; * Reduction in medical errors and improvements in patient safety; * A national move to electronic health records.

President Obama also is calling for “the largest investment ever in preventive care.”

Part of our job will be to make sure “preventive” includes strengthening the nation’s public health capability. Providing flu shots is one thing; teaching a whole generation to exercise and eat healthy foods is something entirely different. We need both approaches.

For those of us who have worked together so long and so passionately to bring these elements of reform to critical mass it is tempting to sit back and celebrate the fruits of our labors. Now, however, is the time to press forward with even more urgency.

I call on our remarkable RWJF community of grantees, stakeholders, staff and allies to continue our common and relentless pursuit of better health and health care with the same intensity that's brought us so successfully to this important juncture.

Help us work together to equip policymakers and elected leaders with the evidence, information and expertise they need to make the best possible decisions. And join us in guiding the national debate toward constructive, consensus-building, bipartisan common ground. This, indeed, is health reform’s moment. As the president said, “None of this will come without cost, nor will it be easy.”

But it is necessary.

We have much to do. On behalf of everyone at the Foundation, we are excited and challenged to be your partners on this next, crucial part of our journey to reform.

Risa Lavizzo-Mourey

B

ig Brother has lost his mind; and the government has gone wild!

Conservative talk show host Gary Bauer describes the enormity of the stimulus bill in these terms: “It is the largest single expenditure in America's history. It dwarfs major initiatives like the Louisiana Purchase, the space program, the New Deal, and the Iraq war, even in inflation-adjusted dollars.” Moreover, the Congressional Budget Office projects this package of pork will do more harm than good.

Surely, the democrats in Congress have been drinking!

U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX) describes just how much the trillion dollar plan will cost. He said, “...this plan will cost taxpayers the equivalent of a million dollars a day for the next 3,000 years to fund a long wish list of items that won't create jobs.”

Not only did they get drunk and go on a spending spree and

run up a tab they cannot afford, but they were so drunk that they decided to be peeping toms as well. The bill pours billions of your hard earned tax dollars into the creation of a new agency, Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. This agency is responsible for creating a GOVERNMENT electronic database of the personal medical records of ALL Americans.

There is no way to ensure privacy of these medical records because there will be government officials, employers, insurers, lawyers, and even ex-spouses that will find a way to access this information. Joe the Plumber can tell you about how privacy of records plays out with government databases. The cost to create and maintain a database of the health records of 300 million Americans is astronomical to say the least.

The bill also provides for a federal coordinating council for “comparative clinical effectiveness research.” This is liberalspeak for scheming up ways to

09

GoNe WiLd! GINA PARKER FORD

ration health care based on some government bureaucrat's review of these records.

Beware Grandma could be denied care because some bureaucrat said treating her cancer is not cost effective.

Maybe they inhaled too.

Consider this slop. The bill wastes $650 million for the switch from analog to digital TV of which a part of is dedicated to educate “vulnerable populations” that they need to get their converter boxes or lose their TV signals. After all, the democrats cannot create new jobs if you can't watch Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

President Reagan must have seen into the future of the Obama

administration when he said, “Government is like a baby. An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other.”

Let us seriously consider the words of President Thomas Jefferson, “I predict the future happiness of Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.” We will all have a hang-over when we wake up to the reality of the enormous cost of this “stimulus” bill.

---------------------------------------Gina Parker Ford — CEO of Dental Creations, Ltd., a dental manufacturing company, and a successful attorney - is the National Eagle Forum Chairman for Judicial Reform. Mrs. Ford is immediate past chairman of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. She serves on the American Family Radio Advisory Board of Central Texas, and she was both the former Republican Party of Texas Treasurer and Associate General Counsel.

CATERING • 281.852.5666 HOURS • MONDAY-SATURDAY 11:00A.M. - 8:00 P.M. • SUNDAY 11:00 A.M. -6:00 P.M. BREAKFAST • SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS 6:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.

Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D., M.B.A. President and CEO

207 GRAY STREET • HOUSTON, TEXAS 77002 • 713.659.1608 • WWW.THISISITHOUSTON.COM

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INTERVIEW PEOPLE DOING BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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ARE YOU PREPARED? Aubrey R. Taylor, publisher of this newspaper and founder of PeopleDoingBusiness.com talks to Mary Turner, RN the president and CEO of Therapeutic Professionals.

TAYLOR: So, tell us a little about what you guys do at Therapeutic Professionals?

TURNER: Therapeutic Professionals is a healthcare education and training company. We take a holistic approach to business management which means we offer services that address the mind, body & spirit. Our mission is to be a catalyst for life transformation for those who utilize our services. We offer massage therapy as a form of stress relief and CPR training when stress not properly dealt with results in cardiac arrest. With the understanding that most individuals wait until they are on their death bed before they stop taking their health for granted, our goal is to reach people through education and training.

To make it convenient we travel to our customer’s home or office to provide either service - or they can come to one of our locations.

As for a therapeutic massage, we bring everything including the massage table or chair, linens, essential oils, candles, and also the music.

When conducting CPR training we bring the adult, child and infant manikins as well as the AED (automated external defibulator). At Therapeutic Professionals we believe that every single person should learn CPR. Statistics show that 85% of all heart attacks occur at home. Family members trained in CPR can prevent brain damage from occurring by starting CPR right away. This will have a significant impact on the quality of life.

However, waiting helplessly and doing nothing until paramedics arrive may result in the person living, but doing so in a vegetative state. Our hands-on class allows students to gain confidence that in the event of an emergency they can do enough to buy time until help arrives. Unlike our competitors, we teach critical thinking not memorization. Since individuals usually only perform CPR once or twice in their lifetime, memorization is not the best method.

Our common sense approach makes it possible for us to train well over 4,000 people in Houston annually.

TAYLOR: So how long have you been providing the wonderful service to the Houston community.

TURNER: Although Therapeutic Professionals has been in existence since June 2004, I have been a CPR Instructor aligned with American Heart Association for over 23 years.

TAYLOR: Who initially inspired you to go into business for yourself?

TURNER: My dad inspired me to go into business for myself. He owned and operated Chicago’s largest record distributorship at the time. I worked for him from the time I was 8 years old. In doing so, I learned from one of the best, the good, the bad, and the ugly, about business ownership. Some of the things I learned, I wouldn’t have been able to learn any other way.

TAYLOR: What type of people can most benefit from what you have to offer at Therapeutic Professionals?

TURNER: Whether you are a business owner desiring to train your staff or an individual wanting to make sure your family is prepared, CPR is for EVERYONE. The life that gets saved might just be yours!

TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone whose business may be struggling right now?

TURNER: Seize the moment! Remain focused at all times in the NOW, the present moment, not worrying about yesterday or tomorrow. Don’t be concerned with the fruit of your labor; instead give attention to the action you are currently taking.

The fruit will come on its own accord. Affirm this daily and you will be amazed at what happens!

TAYLOR: What is your

outlook for your business going forward?

TURNER: My outlook is to make a difference whether in business or in life. If my contributions help others, then my purpose has been fulfilled.

As for Therapeutic Professionals, we will continue to expand our territory with exceptional team and individual performances making us the most sought after and respected healthcare organization city-to-city, state-to-state, coast-to-coast, and nationwide!

CONTACT INFORMATION: If you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment with Mary Turner, RN please call her at: (832) 876-9917 or visit: www.TherapeuticProfessionals.com

Where Accuracy Meets Precision at the Point of Care...

We are pleased to introduce Arrowpoint Clinical Lab Services (ACL) to you. We are a medical laboratory testing company, which operates for the primary purpose of providing quality clinical laboratory and drug screening services. ACL is focused on providing accurate and timely clinical laboratory testing with cost-effective and personalized service in mind.

With a variety of offerings to choose from, we're sure you'll be happy working with us. Visit our web site at www.arrowpointlab.com to find out more information about us. And if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us.

Arrow Point Clinical Laboratory 9896 Bissonnet Suite #136 Houston, Texas 77036

1.866.669.7076 Call Us Today!

WWW.ARROWPOINTLAB.COM WE ARE A CERTIFIED LAB, EXCEEDING CLIENT EXPECTATIONS WITH A FOCUS ON QUALITY, ACCURACY, TURN-AROUND-TIME, AND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY!

AT ARROW POINT CLINICAL LABORATORY WE PROVIDE ROUTINE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING SERVICES FOR NURSING HOMES, DOCTOR’S OFFICES, HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES ETC. WE ALSO PROVIDE DRUG TESTING SERVICES: NON-DOT AND DOT AND ACCEPT ALL MAJOR HEALTH INSURANCES. Our Philosophy and Standard of Services: The philosophy of Arrowpoint Clinical Laboratory is to first exceed the accreditation practices generally followed in this field. ACL’s standards, policies and procedures are set by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA), under the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)- the same accreditation of most major hospital laboratories- this is to ensure our clients are getting the highest quality and most accurate testing available. Our Mission Statement and Commitment: Our Mission is to provide constant provision of timely and accurate test results in a cost-effective manner, by operating a laboratory with uncompromising integrity, principles of excellence. We are a mission driven organization with human compassion, sensitive and responsive to our clients needs. Through team management, unity and high quality clinical laboratory services, we will be a recognized leader in the laboratory industry.

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COLUMN

PROVIDED BY JUDGE OSWALD SCOTT

11

HANDLING A LOVED ONE’S ESTATE Upon the passing of a loved one, you or a member of your family will have to deal with the property and effects left by them. When that time arrives, someone will have to start the process (probate) to bring his or her business and financial matters to a close.

The Texas Probate Code provides the laws and method governing the distribution of property. The method that would be the best for you is going to be based on several factors.

Below is information on the process and a brief description of several methods available to handle a loved one’s estate

Independent Administration This method can be used when the Deceased left a valid Will appointing an Independent Executor or if the Will fails to name an Executor and all heirs named in the Will agree to the selection of one. This process is the most efficient way of handling the estate and requires the least amount of court supervision.

Under this process, the court will approve the appointment of the Executor, who will have the job of gathering all the assets of the estate, paying all debts, and transferring the property to the persons named in the Will.

Probate Will as Muniment of Title - This procedure can only be used when the Deceased left a Will.

This method can be used when the court finds that there are no unpaid debts (except those secured by liens

Oswald J. Scott, Jr. is an attorney and municipal court judge who specializes in wills & probate. He can be reached at (713) 227-8060 or at oswsco@msn.com. on real estate), the Will is valid and it is not necessary for administration of the estate. If the court finds these facts to be true, the court will sign

an order granting the heirs’ authority to receive or sell property belonging to the Deceased.

Declaration of Heriships Heirships determination is one of the most costly probate proceedings.

If the Deceased left no Will and left assets greater than $50,000.00 excluding the value of the home and exempt property, then this method will provide the only process for distributing the assets of the estate.

All known heirs of the Deceased are brought before the court and the court appoints an attorney to represent the unknown heirs. At the completion of the hearing establishing the heirs, the court signs a judgment listing all heirs and the percentage of property they are to receive.

Affidavit of Distrustees for Small Estate - Allows the passage of title to property to the heirs if the

assets making up the estate is less than $50,000.00 excluding the value of the Deceased home and exempt property. This method is one of the least expensive ways of handling an estate if the person left no Will. It is most commonly used when the Deceased left few assets.

Affidavit of Heirship - This method is commonly used when the only asset in the estate is real estate and it is widely accepted by mortgage and title companies regarding the transfer of property.

A document is prepared listing all of the heirs of the Deceased that is acknowledged and sworn by two witnesses. Once the document has been executed, it is filed in the county real estate record.

Therefore, anyone interested in acquiring the property would have means of determining ownership.

Probate - The name given to the court procedure to handle the affairs of a Deceased person’s estate.

Most probate proceedings are started by filing an application with the court and require a court hearing. If the Deceased left a Will, the Will would be filed along with an application to begin the probate process. If the court finds that the Will is valid, the judge will appoint the Executor named in the Will. This will allow for the Independent Administration of the Deceased's estate.

Non Probate Assets - There are certain assets whose distribution will be controlled by a contract as to who is to receive the property.

Commonly this group of assets consists of life insurance policies, retirement plans, stocks and bonds and could also include bank accounts. These assets will not be governed by Texas probate law.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Martin to Get New Weekend Program CNN/U.S. made the following announcement recently regarding Martin:

G

ood Luck Roland!

“In early April, Campbell Brown will take maternity leave for about 8 weeks and Roland S. Martin will fill in for her during that time.

"Roland is a solid journalist and a terrific communicator. He’s been a regular part of the No Bias, No Bull family and our audience knows him well. He has also served as a contributor/analyst for CNN, and in fact, he's been transparent about whom he has supported for president, whether it was George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush or Barack Obama.

“We look forward to Roland’s smart, energetic and spirited reporting in this role, and in the future on CNN. Following his stint filling in for Campbell, CNN plans to develop a weekend program with Roland.”

Hours of Operation: The Museum opens and conducts tours Monday thru Friday from 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00a.m. to 4:30p.m. the Museum is closed on Sundays. www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com 1 8 3 4 S o u t h m o r e , H o u s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 0 0 4 I Te l e p h o n e : 7 1 3 - 9 4 2 - 8 9 2 0

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REMARKS MESSAGE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

12

“Well that day of reckoning has arrived, and the time to take charge of our future is here.” — U.S. President Barack Obama But while our economy may be weakened and our confidence shaken; though we are living through difficult and uncertain times, tonight I

President continued from P.1 want every American to know this: We will rebuild, we will recover, and the United States of America will emerge stronger than before.

The weight of this crisis will not determine the destiny of this nation. The answers to our problems don't lie beyond our reach. They exist in our laboratories and universities; in our fields and our factories; in the imaginations of our entrepreneurs and the pride of the hardest-working people on Earth. Those qualities that have made America the greatest force of progress and prosperity in human history we still possess in ample measure. What is required now is for this country to pull together, confront boldly the challenges we face, and take responsibility for our future once more.

Now, if we're honest with ourselves, we'll admit that for too long, we have not always met these responsibilities - as a government or as a people. I say this not to lay blame or look backwards, but because it is only by understanding how we arrived at this moment that we'll be able to lift ourselves out of this predicament.

The fact is, our economy did not fall into decline overnight. Nor did all of our problems begin when the housing market collapsed or the stock market sank. We have known for decades that our survival depends on finding new sources of energy. Yet we import more oil today than ever before. The cost of health care eats up more and more of our savings each year, yet we keep delaying reform. Our children will compete for jobs in a global economy that too many of our schools do not prepare them for. And though all these challenges went unsolved, we still managed to spend more money and pile up more debt, both as individuals and through our government, than ever before.

In other words, we have lived through an era where too often, short-term gains were prized over long-term prosperity; where we failed to look beyond the next payment, the next quarter, or the next election. A surplus became an excuse to transfer wealth to the wealthy instead of an opportunity to invest in our future. Regulations were gutted for the sake of a quick profit at the expense of a healthy market. People bought homes they knew they couldn’t afford from banks and lenders who pushed those bad loans anyway.

And all the while, critical debates and difficult decisions were put off for some other time on some other day.

Well that day of reckoning has arrived, and the time to take charge of our future is here.

Now is the time to act boldly and wisely to not only revive this economy, but to build a new foundation for lasting prosperity. Now is the time to jumpstart job creation, re-start lending, and invest in areas like energy, health care, and education that will grow our economy, even as we make hard choices to bring our deficit down. That is what my economic agenda is designed to do, and that’s what I'd like to talk to you about tonight.

It’s an agenda that begins with jobs.

As soon as I took office, I asked this Congress to send me a recovery plan by President's Day that would put people back to work and put money in their pockets. Not because I believe in bigger government - I don’t. Not because I’m not mindful of the massive debt we’ve inherited - I am. I called for action because the failure to do so would have cost more jobs and caused more hardships. In fact, a failure to act would have worsened our long-term deficit by assuring weak economic growth for years. That’s why I pushed for quick action. And tonight, I am grateful that this Congress delivered, and

pleased to say that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is now law.

Over the next two years, this plan will save or create 3.5 million jobs. More than 90% of these jobs will be in the private sector - jobs rebuilding our roads and bridges; constructing wind turbines and solar panels; laying broadband and expanding mass transit.

Because of this plan, there are teachers who can now keep their jobs and educate our kids. Health care professionals

can continue caring for our sick.

There are 57 police officers who are still on the streets of Minneapolis tonight because this plan prevented the layoffs their department was about to make.

Because of this plan, 95% of the working households in America will receive a tax cut - a tax cut that you will see in your paychecks beginning on April 1st.

Because of this plan, families who are struggling to pay tuition costs will receive a $2,500 tax credit for all four years of college.

And Americans who have lost their jobs in this recession will be able to receive extended unemployment benefits and continued health care coverage to help them weather this storm.

I know there are some in this chamber and watching at home who are skeptical of whether this plan will work. I understand that skepticism. Here in Washington, we’ve all seen how quickly good intentions can turn into broken promises and wasteful spending.

And with a plan of this scale comes enormous responsibility to get it right.

That is why I have asked Vice President Biden to lead a tough, unprecedented oversight effort - because nobody messes with Joe. I have told each member of my Cabinet as well as mayors and governors across the country that they will be held accountable by me and the American people for every dollar they spend. I have appointed a proven and aggressive Inspector General to ferret out any and all cases of waste and fraud. And we have created a new website called recovery.gov so that every American can find out how and where their money is being spent.

So the recovery plan we passed is the first step in getting our economy back on track. But it is just the first step. Because even if we manage this plan flawlessly, there will be no real recovery unless we clean up the credit crisis that has severely weakened

our financial system.

I want to speak plainly and candidly about this issue tonight, because every American should know that it directly affects you and your family's well-being. You should also know that the money you've deposited in banks across the country is safe; your insurance is secure; and you can rely on the continued operation of our financial system. That is not the source of concern.

The concern is that if we do not restart lending in this country, our recovery will be

choked off before it even begins.

You see, the flow of credit is the lifeblood of our economy. The ability to get a loan is how you finance the purchase of everything from a home to a car to a college education; how stores stock their shelves, farms buy equipment, and businesses make payroll.

But credit has stopped flowing the way it should. Too many bad loans from the housing crisis have made their way onto the books of too many banks. With so much debt and so little confidence, these banks are now fearful of lending out any more money to households, to businesses, or to each other. When there is no lending, families can’t afford to buy homes or cars. So businesses are forced to make layoffs. Our economy suffers even more, and credit dries up even further.

That is why this administration is moving swiftly and aggressively to break this destructive cycle, restore confidence, and re-start lending.

We will do so in several ways. First, we are creating a new lending fund that represents the largest effort ever to help provide auto loans, college loans, and small business loans to the consumers and entrepreneurs who keep this economy running.

Second, we have launched a housing plan that will help responsible families facing the threat of foreclosure lower their monthly payments and re-finance their mortgages. It's a plan that won't help speculators or that neighbor down the street who bought a house he could never hope to afford, but it will help millions of Americans who are struggling with declining home values - Americans who will now be able to take advantage of the lower interest rates that this plan has already helped bring about. In fact, the average family who re-finances today can save nearly $2000 per year on their mortgage.

Third, we will act with the full force of the federal government to ensure that the major banks that Americans depend on have enough confidence and enough money to lend

even in more difficult times. And when we learn that a major bank has serious problems, we will hold accountable those responsible, force the necessary adjustments, provide the support to clean up their balance sheets, and assure the continuity of a strong, viable institution that can serve our people and our economy.

I understand that on any given day, Wall Street may be more comforted by an approach that gives banks bailouts with no strings attached, and that holds nobody accountable for their reckless decisions. But such an approach won’t solve the problem. And our goal is to quicken the day when we re-start lending to the American people and American business and end this crisis once and for all.

I intend to hold these banks fully accountable for the assistance they receive, and this time, they will have to clearly demonstrate how taxpayer dollars result in more lending for the American taxpayer. This time, CEOs won’t be able to use taxpayer money to pad their paychecks or buy fancy drapes or disappear on a private jet. Those days are over.

Still, this plan will require significant resources from the federal government - and yes, probably more than we've already set aside. But while the cost of action will be great, I can assure you that the cost of inaction will be far greater, for it could result in an economy that sputters along for not months or years, but perhaps a decade. That would be worse for our deficit, worse for business, worse for you, and worse for the next generation. And I refuse to let that happen.

I understand that when the last administration asked this Congress to provide assistance for struggling banks, Democrats and Republicans alike were infuriated by the mismanagement and results that followed. So were the American taxpayers. So was I. So I know how unpopular it is to be seen as helping banks right now, especially when everyone is suffering in part from their bad decisions. I promise you - I get it.

But I also know that in a time of crisis, we cannot afford to govern out of anger, or yield to the politics of the moment. My job our job - is to solve the problem. Our job is to govern with a sense of responsibility. I will not spend a single penny for the purpose of rewarding a single Wall Street executive, but I will do whatever it takes to help the small business that can't pay its workers or the family that has saved and still can't get a mortgage.

That's what this is about. It's not about helping banks - it's about helping people.

Because when credit is available again, that young family can finally buy a new home.

And then some company will hire workers to build it. And then those workers will have money to spend, and if they can get a loan too, maybe they'll finally buy that car, or open their own business. Investors will return to the market, and American families will see their retirement secured once more.

Slowly, but surely, confidence will return, and our economy will recover.

So I ask this Congress to join me in doing whatever proves necessary. Because we cannot consign our nation to an openended recession. And to ensure that a crisis of this magnitude never happens again, I ask Congress to move quickly on legislation that will finally reform our outdated regulatory system. It is time to put in place tough, new common-sense rules of the road so that our financial market rewards drive and innovation, and punishes short-cuts and abuse.

The recovery plan and the financial stability plan are the immediate steps we're taking to revive our economy in the short-term.

But the only way to fully restore America's economic strength is to make the long-term investments that will lead to new jobs, new industries, and a renewed ability to compete with the rest of the world. The only way this century will be another American century is if we confront at last the price of our dependPRESIDENT on page, P.15

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New Presidential Helicopter • FACES •

Scrutiny

By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON — The VH-71 helicopter being developed as the next-generation presidential helicopter could get the ax before it ever takes flight.

President Barack Obama announced recently that he has directed Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates to conduct “a thorough review” of the program, which has experienced big cost overruns.

Speaking at the closing of a White House summit on fiscal responsibility, the president called the helicopter program an example of “the procurement process gone amok.”

“We're going to have to fix it,” he said, calling it “one of our highest priorities” and

“The helicopter I have now seems perfectly adequate to me,” he quipped. “Of course, I’ve never had a helicopter before. ... Maybe I’ve been deprived, and I didn't know it.” — U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

urging congressional support.

Obama noted that Gates is a big advocate of the effort and “recognizes that simply adding more and more does not necessarily mean better and better, or safer and more secure.”

The president offered a lighthearted take on the helicopter Lockheed-Martin is developing to replace the Sikorsky Marine One helicopters the White House has used for a

quarter-century. “The helicopter I have now seems perfectly adequate to me,” he quipped.

“Of course, I've never had a helicopter before. ... Maybe I've been deprived, and I didn't know it.”

The VH-71 contract calls for 28 helicopters for $6 billion, but the cost has almost doubled to about $11 billion.

Cost overruns of this magnitude in major

defense acquisition programs require congressional notification. This requirement was established under the so-called Nunn-McCurdy provision of the 1982 Defense Authorization Act. The provision was named for its sponsors, U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn and U.S. Rep Dave McCurdy.

The VH-71 program “certainly fits the category of requiring a Nunn-McCurdy breach notification, and that is not a good position to have a program in,” Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.

The program will be among many to get a thorough review during the acquisition overhaul, he said. “We are committed to looking at expensive programs, particularly those programs that are underperforming,” Whitman said.

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CHIEF EXECUTIVES FROM ALABAMA TO WYOMING...GET TO KNOW A LITTLE ABOUT THE CEO OF EVERY STATE IN THE UNITED STATES!

Alabama SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Alabama is Gov. Bob Riley. He was born and raised in the small Clay County town of Ashland, where his family has lived on ranches and farms for six generations. After graduating from the University of Alabama at age 20 RILEY with a degree in business administration, he returned to his hometown, married his high school sweetheart, Patsy Adams, and began a 30-year career in the private sector in which he ran several successful businesses and a cattle farm.

Alaska SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Alaska is Gov. Sarah Palin. She made history on Dec. 4, 2006, when she took office as the youngest governor in Alaska history at 42 years of age, and the first woman. During the 2008 presidential campaign, she became the first Alaskan PALIN and the first woman to be nominated for vice president by the Republican Party.

Arizona SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Arizona is Gov. Jan Brewer. She has lived in Arizona for 38 years, and she has spent many of them serving the people and upholding the public trust.

There are few, if any, elected officials in Arizona with a broader range of proBREWER ductive experience in public service.

Prior to her succession to Governor, she served as Arizona Secretary of State, as Maricopa County Supervisor, and as a highly respected member of both houses of the Arizona Legislature, where she rose to leadership of the State Senate. She is an active member of Life in Christ Lutheran Church in Peoria. She has lived in Arizona since 1970.

Arkansas SPOTLIGHT —The current governor of Arkansas is Gov. Mike Beebe. He was born in Amagon, Arkansas (Jackson County), in 1946, the Governor earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro in 1968, and completed law BEEBE school at the University of Arkansas in 1972, while serving his country in the U.S. Army Reserves. As Governor, he spends his days working with people of every background and every political persuasion to implement the positive vision he has for Arkansans. He believes in more and better-paying jobs, affordable and accessible health care, and providing all children with a first-class education.

and growth.

California

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of California is Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. A little about the Governor: The world knows Arnold Schwarzenegger as a famous bodybuilder and a Hollywood action hero, but he is also a successful businessSCHWARZENEGGER man, generous philanthropist and California's 38th Governor. As Governor, he has been California's most effective marketing tool, traveling across the country and around the world promoting California-

grown products, cutting-edge technologies and the state's diverse travel destinations.

Colorado SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Colorado is Gov. Bill Ritter, Jr. He wants to harness Colorado’s abundant supplies of traditional and renewable energy, as well as the intellectual capital of its workforce, to provide a catalyst for change towards a more sustainable RITTER national energy portfolio that can produce thousands of homegrown jobs. He has quickly established the state as a national and international leader on energy innovation, business development, and building a New Energy Economy for Colorado and the nation's future. CNBC recently named Colorado one of the top five states in the country for business, and Money Magazine named Fort Collins the second-best place to live in America.

Connecticut SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Connecticut is Gov. M. Jodi Rell. She has held elected office in Connecticut for more than two decades. She holds the state's highest office after serving as the 105th Lieutenant Governor for over nine years. Governor Rell also represented RELL the 107th House District of Brookfield in the state House of Representatives where she held key leadership posts, including Deputy House Minority Leader and Assistant House Minority Leader.

Delaware SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Delaware is Gov. Jack Markell. He was born and raised in Newark, Delaware and graduated from Newark High School along with his wife, Carla. He went on to receive an undergraduate degree in economics and development MARKELL studies from Brown University and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Governor Markell has been recognized in Delaware and across the country as a leader in promoting policies to help all people achieve their economic potential.

District of Columbia SPOTLIGHT — Washington DC is not considered a state. It has one delegate to provide non-voting representation in Congress. However, Adrian M. Fenty is the current Mayor of the District of Columbia. He has made quality public education for all and efficient and FENTY accountable government hallmarks of his administration. Mayor Fenty is a national leader in the area of urban education reform, after changing the city's public schools governance structure in his first months in office.

The new structure, which placed the city’s school chief as a direct report to the mayor allowed him to make swift changes in the system’s central office, improve teacher qualification requirements and implement a dramatic school consolidation process and focus resources on stronger academic programs.

Florida SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Florida is Gov. Charlie Crist. He is committed to ensuring the children of Florida have the resources and opportunities to realize their full potential. The Governor established the

Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness to educate and encourage Florida students about leading a healthy and active lifestyle. He also created the Children and Youth Cabinet and appointed a Chief Child Advocate to streamline the adoption process in CRIST Florida. Governor Crist signed the AntiMurder Act as the first law of the 2007 legislative session in order to ensure the safety of all Floridians. The Governor, the Florida fundraising campaign chair for the United Negro College Fund, introduced a change in the Rules of Executive Clemency that allows automatic restoration of human rights.

Georgia SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Georgia is Gov. Sonny Purdue. As Georgia’s Governor, Perdue has led his state based on his own personal life experiences. Gov. Perdue was born on December 20, 1946, in Perry, Georgia, to a lifelong farmer and a classroom PURDUE teacher. He graduated from Warner Robins High School and earned a doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1971 from the University of Georgia.

Following his service as a Captain in the United States Air Force, Perdue became a successful small business owner, concentrating in agribusiness and transportation.

Today, those businesses have grown to include several locations across the Southeast.

Hawaii SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Hawaii is Gov. Linda Lingle. As Hawaii's chief executive, Governor Linda Lingle is leading the direction and effort to meet the challenges of the 21st century and capitalize on new opportunities during a pivotal and exciting time of LINGLE change in the history of Hawaii and the world. Governor Lingle was born on June 4, 1953 and is a native of St. Louis, Missouri. When she was 12, her family moved to Southern California, where she attended public schools and graduated from Birmingham High School.

She relocated to Hawaii in 1975 after graduating cum laude with a journalism degree from California State University, Northridge. In 1976, she founded and began serving as publisher of the Moloka’i Free Press.

Idaho SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Idaho is Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter.

Governor Butch Otter was born in Caldwell on May 3, 1942. He graduated from St. Teresa's Academy (now Bishop Kelly High School) in Boise, attended Boise Junior College (now OTTER Boise State University), and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the College of Idaho in 1967. Governor Otter's 30-year career in business included membership on the Board of Directors of the J.R. Simplot Company.

Illinois SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Illinois is Gov. Pat Quinn. Former Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn became the 41st Governor of the State of Illinois, having taken the Oath of Office on January 29, 2009. The Oath of Office was administered by QUINN Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke in a brief ceremony in the Chamber of the Illinois House of Representatives.

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“The weight of this crisis will not determine the destiny of this nation.” — U.S. President Barack Obama ence on oil and the high cost of health care; the schools that aren’t preparing our children and the mountain of debt they stand to inherit. That is our responsibility.

President continued from P.13 In the next few days, I will submit a budget to Congress. So often, we have come to view these documents as simply numbers on a page or laundry lists of programs. I see this document differently. I see it as a vision for America - as a blueprint for our future.

My budget does not attempt to solve every problem or address every issue. It reflects the stark reality of what we’ve inherited - a trillion dollar deficit, a financial crisis, and a costly recession.

Given these realities, everyone in this chamber - Democrats and Republicans - will have to sacrifice some worthy priorities for which there are no dollars. And that includes me.

But that does not mean we can afford to ignore our long-term challenges. I reject the view that says our problems will simply take care of themselves; that says government has no role in laying the foundation for our common prosperity.

For history tells a different story. History reminds us that at every moment of economic upheaval and transformation, this nation has responded with bold action and big ideas. In the midst of civil war, we laid railroad tracks from one coast to another that spurred commerce and industry.

From the turmoil of the Industrial Revolution came a system of public high schools that prepared our citizens for a new age. In the wake of war and depression, the GI Bill sent a generation to college and created the largest middle-class in history.

And a twilight struggle for freedom led to a nation of highways, an American on the moon, and an explosion of technology that still shapes our world.

In each case, government didn’t supplant private enterprise; it catalyzed private enterprise. It created the conditions for thousands of entrepreneurs and new businesses to adapt and to thrive.

We are a nation that has seen promise amid peril, and claimed opportunity from ordeal. Now we must be that nation again. That is why, even as it cuts back on the programs we don't need, the budget I submit will invest in the three areas that are absolutely critical to our economic future: energy, health care, and education.

It begins with energy.

We know the country that harnesses the power of clean, renewable energy will lead the 21st century. And yet, it is China that has launched the largest effort in history to make their economy energy efficient. We invented solar technology, but we've fallen behind countries like Germany and Japan in producing it. New plug-in hybrids roll off our assembly lines, but they will run on batteries made in Korea.

Well I do not accept a future where the jobs and industries of

tomorrow take root beyond our borders - and I know you don’t either.

It is time for America to lead again.

Thanks to our recovery plan, we will double this nation's supply of renewable energy in the next three years. We have also made the largest investment in basic research funding in American history - an investment that will spur not only new discoveries in energy, but breakthroughs in medicine, science, and technology.

We will soon lay down thousands of miles of power lines that can carry new energy to cities and towns across this country. And we will put Americans to work making our homes and buildings more efficient so that we can save billions of

dollars on our energy bills.

But to truly transform our economy, protect our security, and save our planet from the ravages of climate change, we need to ultimately make clean, renewable energy the profitable kind of energy. So I ask this Congress to send me legislation that places a market-based cap on carbon pollution and drives the production of more renewable energy in America. And to support that innovation, we will invest fifteen billion dollars a year to develop technologies like wind power and solar power; advanced biofuels, clean coal, and more fuel-efficient cars and trucks built right here in America.

As for our auto industry, everyone recognizes that years of bad

decision-making and a global recession have pushed our automakers to the brink. We should not, and will not, protect them from their own bad practices. But we are committed to the goal of a re-tooled, reimagined auto industry that can compete and win. Millions of jobs depend on it. Scores of communities depend on it. And I believe the nation that invented the automobile cannot walk away from it.

None of this will come without cost, nor will it be easy. But this is America. We don't do what's easy.

We do what is necessary to move this country forward.

For that same reason, we must also address the crushing cost of health care.

This is a cost that now causes a

bankruptcy in America every thirty seconds. By the end of the year, it could cause 1.5 million Americans to lose their homes. In the last eight years, premiums have grown four times faster than wages. And in each of these years, one million more Americans have lost their health insurance. It is one of the major reasons why small businesses close their doors and corporations ship jobs overseas. And it's one of the largest and fastest-growing parts of our budget.

Given these facts, we can no longer afford to put health care reform on hold.

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Indiana SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Indian is Gov. Mitch Daniels. He came from a successful career in business and government, holding numerous top management positions in both the private and public sectors. His work as CEO of the Hudson Institute and DANIELS President of Eli Lilly and Company's North American Pharmaceutical Operations taught him the business skills he brought to state government. He also has served as Chief of Staff to Senator Richard Lugar, Senior Advisor to President Ronald Reagan and Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President George W. Bush.

Iowa SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Iowa is Gov. Chet Culver. He began his career as an environmental and consumer advocate in the Iowa Attorney General’s Office. After receiving his Master of Arts in Teaching at Drake University in 1994, he taught governCULVER ment and history at Roosevelt High School and Hoover High School in Des Moines, where he also coached both football and basketball. As a teacher and a coach, Governor Culver drew on his experiences playing both sports in high school and playing football on scholarship at Virginia Tech.

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Maine is Gov. John Elias Baldacci. He was born and raised in Bangor, Maine.

One of eight children, Baldacci learned the value of communication and cooperation at a young age. As he grew up in his family’s Bangor restaurant, Momma BALDACCI Baldacci’s, Baldacci was surrounded by civic-minded family and community members who instilled in him an intense work ethic and an equally intense desire to serve the people of his state. While working at the family restaurant, Baldacci earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Maine, where he continued to learn about the opportunities and challenges that faced the people in his communities.

Maryland SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Maryland is Gov. Martin O’Malley. He is a fearless, intelligent public servant who puts people before politics. During his six years as mayor of Baltimore City, he worked tirelessly with the citizens and public servants to make it a more beauO’MALLEY tiful, cleaner city where people want to live and businesses want to invest. As Governor, he is applying that knowledge, experience and energy to the State of Maryland to make it stronger and more prepared for any challenges that lie ahead. Governor Martin O’Malley and Lt. Governor Brown have made steady progress for the working families living in Maryland.

Massachusetts

Kansas SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Kansas is Gov. Kathleen Sebelius. At the heart of Governor Sebelius’ administration is a commitment to growing the Kansas economy and creating jobs; ensuring every Kansas child receives a quality education; protecting Kansas SEBELIUS families and communities; improving access to quality, affordable health care; and taking advantage of the state’s renewable energy assets.

Through a commitment to making the state’s business climate more attractive - and by balancing the state budget without raising taxes - the Kansas economy has rebounded resulting in low unemployment and the creation of thousands of new jobs.

Kentucky

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Massachusetts is Gov. Deval Patrick. He was elected in November of 2006 and brings to the Governor’s office a broad range of leadership experience at the top levels of business, government, and non-profits.

PATRICK From an early age, he has built his life on hope, and traced a trajectory from the South Side of Chicago to the U.S. Justice Department, Fortune 500 boardrooms, and now the Massachusetts Statehouse.

He came to the Commonwealth at the age of 14. An excellent student despite the difficult circumstances of under-funded and often violent Chicago schools. After graduating from Milton, Patrick went on to Harvard, the first in his family to attend college. He received his degree, with honors, in 1978 and spent a post-graduate year working on a United Nations youth training project in the Darfur region of Sudan.

Michigan SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Kentucky is Gov. Steve Beshear. An attorney by profession, Gov. Beshear has a long background in public service, having served as a state representative in the Kentucky General Assembly, attorney general and lieutenant governor BESHEAR prior to being elected governor. To each of these positions he has brought a foundation of integrity and ethics, as well as a deeply felt commitment to improving the lives of fellow Kentuckians.

Louisiana SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Louisiana is Gov. Bobby Jindal. He was elected Governor of Louisiana on October 20, 2007, with 54 percent of the vote in the primary, winning 60 of 64 parishes. Shortly after taking office, Governor Jindal called a Special JINDAL Session to address comprehensive ethics reform, the cornerstone of his election platform.

Since the conclusion of the session, the Better Government Association and the Center for Public Integrity announced that Louisiana’s new ethics laws are among the best in the nation.

Maine

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Michigan is Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm. This Governor has set in motion an aggressive economic agenda for Michigan. She has accelerated infrastructure projects to create thousands of jobs for Michigan GRANHOLM workers, introduced new job training to prepare unemployed workers for high-demand jobs, reduced cumbersome business permitting time, and signed into law the new Michigan Business Tax (MBT) - the most significant reform of Michigan business taxes in three decades.

Minnesota SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Minnesota is Gov. Tim Pawlenty. He is regarded as one of the nation’s most innovative, energetic, reform-minded and accomplished governors. Since taking office he’s increased accountability to state government, held the line on PAWLENTY taxes, improved K-12 education standards and made Minnesota a leader in energy reform.

Governor Pawlenty’s most notable accomplishments include proposing and signing into law significant new benefits for veterans and members of the military; enacting a property tax cap, eliminating the marriage penalty and cutting taxes; toughening the state’s education stan-

dards; reforming the way teachers are paid through a nation-leading performance pay plan; instituting free-market health care reforms that increase accountability and provide tax credits to encourage the use of health savings accounts; and implementing a plan to Americanize our energy sources by generating 25% of the state's electricity from renewable sources by 2025.

Mississippi SPOTLIGHT— The current governor of Mississippi is Gov. Haley Reeves Barbour. In his administration Gov. Barbour has offered Mississippi a new path in terms of job creation, education, health care, energy, safer communities and stronger families. His message has BARBOUR resonated with voters: His election in 2003 marked the largest voter turnout in Mississippi gubernatorial history, and he was reelected in 2007 with 58.2 percent of the vote. He is only the second governor since Reconstruction to be elected to a second consecutive term as Mississippi’s chief executive.

Missouri SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Missouri is Gov. Jeremiah W. (Jay) Nixon. A native of the small town of DeSoto, Mo., Gov. Jeremiah W. (Jay) Nixon was raised in a family of public servants. His mother, the late Betty Wilson Nixon, was a teacher and NIXON served as president of the local school board. His father, Jerry Nixon, was elected Mayor of DeSoto and was a police judge for the community.

Growing up in a home with these strong examples, Gov. Nixon learned at a young age that faith and family come first - and giving back to the community comes next.

That's the simple philosophy that has guided Gov. Nixon throughout his career in public service.

Montana SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Montana is Gov. Brian Schweitzer. He’s a farmer and rancher who held no elected office prior to being elected as the first Democratic Governor to serve Montana in 20 years. The grandson of Montana homesteaders, he grew up on his folks' SCHWEITZER cattle ranch in the Judith Basin. Gov. Schweitzer went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in international agronomy from Colorado State University, and later earned a Master of Science degree in soil science from Montana State University. With his unique global perspective, Gov. Schweitzer is a leading national voice to end our addiction to foreign oil by developing clean and green American energy with Montana leading the way.

Nebraska SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Nebraska is Gov. Dave Heineman.

Since becoming Governor, he has worked with the Nebraska Legislature to pass the largest tax relief package in the history of the state and the most comprehensive jobs creation, economic HEINEMAN incentive legislation since the 1980s.

Governor Heineman has also signed into law a bill making the Department of Health and Human Services more efficient, more effective and more accountable. A strong proponent of local control of schools and a quality education for all children, he supports high academic standards and increased parental involvement in education.

Nevada SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Nevada is Gov. Jim Gibbons. He was born and raised in Sparks and attended Nevada public schools and universities. He U.S. GOVERNORS CONTINUED on page, P.20

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“It is our responsibility as lawmakers and educators to make this system work.” — U.S. President Barack Obama Already, we have done more to advance the cause of health care reform in the last thirty days than we have in the last decade. When it was days old, this Congress passed a law to provide and protect health

President continued from P.15 insurance for eleven million American children whose parents work full-time. Our recovery plan will invest in electronic health records and new technology that will reduce errors, bring down costs, ensure privacy, and save lives. It will launch a new effort to conquer a disease that has touched the life of nearly every American by seeking a cure for cancer in our time. And it makes the largest investment ever in preventive care, because that is one of the best ways to keep our people healthy and our costs under control.

This budget builds on these reforms. It includes an historic commitment to comprehensive health care reform - a down-payment on the principle that we must have quality, affordable health care for every American. It’s a commitment that’s paid for in part by efficiencies in our system that are long overdue. And it's a step we must take if we hope to bring down our deficit in the years to come.

Now, there will be many different opinions and ideas about how to achieve reform, and that is why I'm bringing together businesses and workers, doctors and health care providers, Democrats and Republicans to begin work on this issue next week.

I suffer no illusions that this will be an easy process. It will be hard. But I also know that nearly a century after Teddy Roosevelt first called for reform, the cost of our health care has weighed down our economy and the conscience of our nation long enough. So let there be no doubt: health care reform cannot wait, it must not wait, and it will not wait another year.

The third challenge we must address is the urgent need to expand the promise of education in America.

In a global economy where the most valuable skill you can sell is your knowledge, a good education is no longer just a pathway to opportunity - it is a pre-requisite.

Right now, three-quarters of the fastest-growing occupations require more than a high school diploma.

And yet, just over half of our citizens have that level of education. We have one of the highest high school dropout rates of any industrialized nation. And half of the students who begin college never finish.

This is a prescription for economic decline, because we know the countries that out-teach us today will out-compete us tomorrow. That is why it will be the goal of this administration to ensure that every child has access to a complete and competitive education - from the day they are born to the day they begin a career.

Already, we have made an historic investment in education through the economic recovery plan.

We have dramatically expanded early childhood education and will

continue to improve its quality, because we know that the most formative learning comes in those first years of life. We have made college affordable for nearly seven million more students. And we have provided the resources necessary to prevent painful cuts and teacher layoffs that would set back our children's progress.

But we know that our schools don't just need more resources.

They need more reform. That is why this budget creates new incentives for teacher performance; pathways for advancement, and rewards for success. We'll invest in innovative programs that are already helping schools meet high standards and

close achievement gaps. And we will expand our commitment to charter schools.

It is our responsibility as lawmakers and educators to make this system work. But it is the responsibility of every citizen to participate in it. And so tonight, I ask every American to commit to at least one year or more of higher education or career training. This can be community college or a four-year school; vocational training or an apprenticeship. But whatever the training may be, every American will need to get more than a high school diploma. And dropping out of high school is no longer an option. It's not just quitting on

yourself, it's quitting on your country - and this country needs and values the talents of every American.

That is why we will provide the support necessary for you to complete college and meet a new goal: by 2020, America will once again have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world.

I know that the price of tuition is higher than ever, which is why if you are willing to volunteer in your neighborhood or give back to your community or serve your country, we will make sure that you can afford a higher education. And to encourage a renewed spirit of national service for this and future generations, I ask this Congress to

send me the bipartisan legislation that bears the name of Senator Orrin Hatch as well as an American who has never stopped asking what he can do for his country - Senator Edward Kennedy.

These education policies will open the doors of opportunity for our children. But it is up to us to ensure they walk through them. In the end, there is no program or policy that can substitute for a mother or father who will attend those parent/teacher conferences, or help with homework after dinner, or turn off the TV, put away the video games, PLEASE SEE page, P.19

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We Media/Zogby Poll: Most Americans Believe Small Business, Science, and Tech Leaders Will Lead the U.S. to a Better Future likely to come from family and friends (38%), non-profit groups (32%), or even themselves (36%). The Zogby Interactive survey of 2,497 continued from page, P.1 adults nationwide was conducted Feb. 11-13, 2009, and carries a margin of error of +/- 2.0 percentage points. The survey results are also featured at the fifth-annual We Media Conference in Miami (www.wemedia.com), is hosted by the University of Miami School of Communication and organized and produced by iFOCOS, a Reston, Va.-based media think tank (www.ifocos.org). This is the third year of the survey.

“Americans are deeply dissatisfied with traditional media’s leadership today - and they also don’t expect much in the future,” said Andrew Nachison, founder of the media think tank iFOCOS, which organizes the We Media conference, awards, community and web site (www.wemedia.com). “I’m not sure what’s worse - the dissatisfaction with the current performance, or the low expectations for the future.”

Dissatisfaction with the news media, corporations, and government runs deep Americans are deeply dissatisfied with the leadership currently provided by large companies, government and traditional media - and they are not confident the leadership from these groups will improve in the future. The survey shows 71% are “not very” or “not at all” satisfied with the leadership provided by traditional news media. Even greater numbers of Americans are unsatisfied with the leadership of the government (74%) and large corporations and business leaders (81%).

While just one in four (27%) Americans are satisfied with the leadership provided by traditional news media, Internet media - including blogs and social networks - fared far better, with 56% satisfied with online media leadership.

Fewer than a third of Americans (32%) believe online media will provide leadership in the future, but they are much more confident in the potential of Internet media to guide the U.S. in a better direction than they are in traditional news media (13%).

“The public’s sense of who will lead in the future is, sad to say, a painful reflection of the place that newspapers and other traditional media hold in American culture. Most Americans don't think they provide much leadership now, nor will they lead us to a better future. They look to science, technology and entrepreneurs for that leadership,” said Nachison.

“This raises an old question that takes on new meaning as the world's economy reorganizes around diminished returns: what’s ZOGBY the purpose of a news enterprise? Is it simply to produce, package and distribute data? Or is it more? Is there a purpose to the endeavor?”

“We think there is, and we look to publishers and journalists to lead us to a better future. However they are configured, news enterprises must lead. And to lead they must change. That's a call to action to improve performance and to raise the bar on expectations.”

Americans most likely to look online for breaking and daily news Nearly half of Americans (46%) said they first turn to Internet news sites for information on breaking news about national and government issues and nearly as many (40%) said online news sites are where they get most of their news and information. These online sites far outpace traditional news sources, such as television (25%), radio (14%), and newspapers (12%), as a source of daily news and information. It comes as no surprise that younger Americans are most likely to favor online news sources, but only those age 65 and older are more likely to turn to television (36%) over the Internet (29%) to get their news.

THE GREATER HOUSTON PARTNERSHIP MINORITY TASK FORCE CHAIRMAN: Jones, is one of the founding partners in Texas’ largest African-American owned accounting and consulting practices, has first hand experience in growing a minority-owned business in Houston. As the leader of this special task force, Jones plans to apply his experience in spearheading several major initiatives, including increasing the visibility of Houston’s diversity to international businesses.

Mr. Chairman

McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP Announces the Selection of Thomas Jones Jr. as Chair of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Minority Task Force

H

HOUSTON — McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP (MJLM) recently announced that Thomas Jones, Partner, has been selected to lead the Greater Houston Partnership’s Minority Task Force.

The principal objective of the Greater Houston Partnership, which traces its roots back to Houston’s original Chamber of Commerce founded in 1840, is to build regional economic prosperity.

The Partnership facilitates relocations and expansions in the Houston area; international outreach initiatives such as business development missions outside the U.S. and receiving foreign trade delegations; and strategic planning.

“I look forward to working through the Partnership to help Houston’s minority businesses develop and thrive,” says Jones. “As important as Houston has become to the world’s economy, it makes sense to increase the opportunities available to disadvantaged business enterprises in our community. This will increase competition in the marketplace and ultimately keep our local economy growing.”

Jones, a founding partner in Texas’ largest African-American owned accounting and consulting practices, has first hand experience in growing a minority-owned business in Houston. As the leader of this special task force, Jones plans to apply his experience in spearheading several major initiatives, including increasing the visibility of Houston’s diversity to international businesses.

Known as a world-class city with a pro-business culture, Houston’s global possibilities are significant to the growth of minority-owned businesses. The many dynamic business opportunities available in this region will help to achieve Jones’ goals for the task force.

INFORMATION: McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP (MJLM) is a fullservice professional services firm providing accounting, financial planning, management consulting, engineering and technical services. Assurance services are provided through MJLM affiliate, McConnell & Jones LLP. MJLM specializes in solving problems, reducing risk and improving business performance for public, private and government clients in a variety of industries including manufacturing, oil and gas, investment management, real estate, construction, hospitality, non-profit, and professional services such as doctors’ and attorneys’ practices. For additional info please see:

WWW.MJLM.COM “I congratulate the Partnership on its choice of Thomas Jones as its next Chair of the Minority Task Force,” said MJLM Managing Partner, Wayne McConnell.

“His leadership skills and business

savvy will be a true asset as the Partnership continues to advance Houston’s image as a sophisticated international business center.”

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“History reminds us that at every moment of economic upheaval and transformation, this nation has responded with bold action and big ideas.” — U.S. President Obama and read to their child. I speak to you not just as a President, but as a father when I say that responsibility for our children's education must

President continued from P.17 begin at home.

There is, of course, another responsibility we have to our children. And that is the responsibility to ensure that we do not pass on to them a debt they cannot pay. With the deficit we inherited, the cost of the crisis we face, and the long-term challenges we must meet, it has never been more important to ensure that as our economy recovers, we do what it takes to bring this deficit down.

I’m proud that we passed the recovery plan free of earmarks, and I want to pass a budget next year that ensures that each dollar we spend reflects only our most important national priorities.

Yesterday, I held a fiscal summit where I pledged to cut the deficit in half by the end of my first term in office. My administration has also begun to go line by line through the federal budget in order to eliminate wasteful and ineffective programs. As you can imagine, this is a process that will take some time. But we're starting with the biggest lines. We have already identified two trillion dollars in savings over the next decade.

In this budget, we will end education programs that don't work and end direct payments to large agribusinesses that don't need them.

We'll eliminate the no-bid contracts that have wasted billions in Iraq, and reform our defense budget so that we're not paying for Cold Warera weapons systems we don't use.

We will root out the waste, fraud, and abuse in our Medicare program that doesn't make our seniors any healthier, and we will restore a sense of fairness and balance to our tax code by finally ending the tax breaks for corporations that ship our jobs overseas.

In order to save our children from a future of debt, we will also end the tax breaks for the wealthiest 2% of Americans. But let me perfectly clear, because I know you'll hear the same old claims that rolling back these tax breaks means a massive tax increase on the American people: if your family earns less than $250,000 a year, you will not see your taxes increased a single dime. I repeat: not one single dime.

In fact, the recovery plan provides a tax cut - that's right, a tax cut - for 95% of working families. And these checks are on the way.

To preserve our long-term fiscal health, we must also address the growing costs in Medicare and Social Security. Comprehensive health care reform is the best way to strengthen Medicare for years to come. And we must also begin a conversation on how to do the same for Social Security, while creating tax-free universal savings accounts for all Americans.

Finally, because we’re also suf-

fering from a deficit of trust, I am committed to restoring a sense of honesty and accountability to our budget. That is why this budget looks ahead ten years and accounts for spending that was left out under the old rules - and for the first time, that includes the full cost of fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. For seven years, we have been a nation at war.

No longer will we hide its price.

We are now carefully reviewing our policies in both wars, and I will soon announce a way forward in Iraq that leaves Iraq to its people and responsibly ends this war.

And with our friends and allies, we will forge a new and comprehensive strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan to defeat al Qaeda and combat extremism. Because I will not allow terrorists to plot against the American people from safe havens half a world away.

As we meet here tonight, our men and women in uniform stand watch abroad and more are readying to deploy. To each and every one of them, and to the families who bear

the quiet burden of their absence, Americans are united in sending one message: we honor your service, we are inspired by your sacrifice, and you have our unyielding support.

To relieve the strain on our forces, my budget increases the number of our soldiers and Marines. And to keep our sacred trust with those who serve, we will raise their pay, and give our veterans the expanded health care and benefits that they have earned.

To overcome extremism, we must also be vigilant in upholding the values our troops defend because there is no force in the world more powerful than the example of America. That is why I have ordered the closing of the detention center at Guantanamo Bay, and will seek swift and certain justice for captured terrorists because living our values doesn't make us weaker, it makes us safer and it makes us stronger. And that is why I can stand here tonight and say without exception or equivocation that the United States of

America does not torture.

In words and deeds, we are showing the world that a new era of engagement has begun. For we know that America cannot meet the threats of this century alone, but the world cannot meet them without America. We cannot shun the negotiating table, nor ignore the foes or forces that could do us harm. We are instead called to move forward with the sense of confidence and candor that serious times demand.

To seek progress toward a secure and lasting peace between Israel and her neighbors, we have appointed an envoy to sustain our effort. To meet the challenges of the 21st century - from terrorism to nuclear proliferation; from pandemic disease to cyber threats to crushing poverty - we will strengthen old alliances, forge new ones, and use all elements of our national power.

And to respond to an economic crisis that is global in scope, we are working with the nations of the G-20 to restore confidence in our financial system, avoid the possibility of esca-

lating protectionism, and spur demand for American goods in markets across the globe. For the world depends on us to have a strong economy, just as our economy depends on the strength of the world's.

As we stand at this crossroads of history, the eyes of all people in all nations are once again upon us watching to see what we do with this moment; waiting for us to lead.

Those of us gathered here tonight have been called to govern in extraordinary times. It is a tremendous burden, but also a great privilege - one that has been entrusted to few generations of Americans. For in our hands lies the ability to shape our world for good or for ill.

I know that it is easy to lose sight of this truth - to become cynical and doubtful; consumed with the petty and the trivial.

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HAVE INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE PUBLISHED HERE? EMAIL THE INFORMATION TO US AT: NEWS@PEOPLEDOINGBUSINESS.COM earned a B.S. in Geology from the University of Nevada, Reno, and a Master's degree in Mining/Geology from the University of Nevada’s Mackay School of Mines. Gov. Gibbons earned his J.D. from Southwestern University School of Law and completed his postGIBBONS graduate work at the University of Southern California. He is a former combat pilot and decorated veteran of both the Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars and served in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1971 and graduated from the USAF Air Command and Staff College, as well as the Air War College. He also joined the Air Guard in 1975, attaining the rank of Colonel, and served as the group's Vice Commander from 1990 through 1996.

New Hampshire SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of New Hampshire is Gov. John Lynch.

He is currently working on initiatives to increase New Hampshire’s graduation rate to direct more state education aid to the communities that need it most; to expand the number of children with LYNCH access to health insurance; to make health care more affordable and accessible; to protect children from sexual predators; to preserve New Hampshire's environment; and to strengthen New Hampshire's economy. His commitment to putting the interests of people first is an extension of his work as a business and community leader.

New Jersey SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of New Jersey is Gov. Jon S. Corzine. As New Jersey’s 54th governor, he has applied his experience as a Wall Street executive and as a consensus builder in the United States Senate to advance an agenda of socially conscious initiatives, CORZINE while maintaining a focus on financial responsibility. Governor Corzine began his Wall Street career in 1975, when he was recruited by the New York investment firm Goldman Sachs. After taking a job with the firm as a bond trader, he and his family settled in New Jersey. Corzine's financial acumen propelled him through the ranks at Goldman Sachs, where he was named a partner in 1980, became a key player in crucial strategic decisions, and was eventually named chairman and chief executive officer in 1994.

New Mexico SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of New Mexico is Gov. Bill Richardson.

He’s serving his second term as Governor of New Mexico. Gov. Richardson was re-elected in 2006 with the support of 69 percent of voters, representing the largest margin of victory for RICHARDSON any Governor in New Mexico’s history.

He was supported by Democrats, Republicans and Independents, winning in both urban and rural counties New Mexicans overwhelmingly endorsed Governor Richardson's aggressive efforts to improve education, cut taxes, build a high-wage economy, expand health care access, invest in renewable energy and make New Mexico safer.

New York SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of New York is Gov. David A. Paterson. He became New York’s 55th Governor on March 17, 2008. In his first address as Governor, Paterson spoke about the challenges New York faces and his plan for New PATERSON York’s future. He’s served the people of New York for over 23 years. An agent of change: Governor Paterson has worked towards change by reaching across party lines and bringing people together. His thoughtful, inclusive approach to governing has won him the respect of colleagues and a reputation for uniting disparate forces towards consensus that benefits all New Yorkers.

North Carolina

Oregon

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of North Carolina is Gov. Beverly “Bev” Eaves Perdue. Her inauguration as the 73rd Governor of North Carolina - and the state’s first woman governor - followed a distinguished tenure in public PERDUE service focused on creating 21st century jobs, fighting for world-class public schools, and improving the health of the people of North Carolina.

Before entering public service, Gov. Perdue worked as a public school teacher, as director of geriatric services at a community hospital in her hometown of New Bern, and earned a Ph.D. in Education Administration. Prior to her election as Governor, Perdue established herself one of the most active and accomplished Lieutenant Governors in North Carolina history.

SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Oregon is Gov. Theodore “Ted” Kulongoski. He was born in rural Missouri in 1940 and grew up in St. Louis in a Catholic boys’ home. After graduating from high school, he enlisted KULONGOSKI in the U.S. Marine Corps and, on returning from duty in Southeast Asia, spent a few years as a truck driver and a bricklayer in a steel mill in Alton, Illinois.

Those experiences and the availability of the GI Bill gave him the impetus and the financial opportunity to put himself through the University of Missouri. When Kulongoski was sworn in as governor in January 2003, Oregon faced the largest budget deficit since the Great Depression. The governor responded by changing the way Oregon budgets, building a principle-based budget designed to establish fiscal stability while delivering measurable returns. He made priority investments in economic development, workforce training, transportation infrastructure, and arts and culture that helped turned Oregon’s economy around.

In his first term, he helped create over 150,000 jobs, attracted over a dozen new major employers to Oregon and substantially reduced the state's hunger rate.

North Dakota SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of North Dakota is Gov. John Hoeven.

Under his leadership, North Dakota has expanded and diversified its economy, adding thousands of new jobs and growing its targeted industry sectors, includHOEVEN ing value-added agriculture, advanced manufacturing, energy development, technology-based business and tourism. During his term, North Dakota’s personal income growth has outpaced the national average. Today, North Dakota continues to grow its economy. As a direct result of Hoeven’s stewardship, the state ended the last fiscal biennium with a strong reserve for North Dakota’s future, and no new taxes. His current budget focuses on investments that will continue to stimulate the state’s economy, including property and income tax relief, as well as enhanced funding for education, economic development and helping North Dakota families.

Ohio SPOTLIGHT — The current Governor of Ohio is Gov. Ted Strickland. As Governor, he believes that Ohio government must live within its means while investing in what matters. Brought together by a sense of common purpose, STRICKLAND legislators from both parties in Ohio have worked closely with the Governor to strengthen Ohio. After Ted Strickland was first reelected to Congress, he placed a plaque in his office with the following quote from Scripture: “And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” - Micah 6:8. Throughout his service as a minister, a psychologist, a professor and a Member of Congress, Gov. Ted worked to exemplify those simple, powerful words.

That same plaque is now in the Governor’s Office, where those same words guide Ted each day.

Oklahoma SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Oklahoma is Gov. Brad Henry. He’s a third generation Oklahoman, Governor Henry was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, where he attended public schools and graduated from Shawnee High School.

HENRY The governor attended the University of Oklahoma as a President’s Leadership Scholar and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1985. In 1988, he was awarded his law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, where he served as managing editor of the Law Review. Governor Henry has placed his greatest emphasis on the improvement of public education, raising teacher salaries and benefits, putting more resources into the classroom and setting higher academic standards for students. The governor has also expanded Oklahoma’s early childhood education programs, which have earned national recognition, and increased funding for college scholarship programs.

Pennsylvania SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Pennsylvania is Gov. Edward G. Rendell. Rendell’s unprecedented strategic investments have energized Pennsylvania’s economy, revitalized communities, improved education, proRENDELL tected the environment and expanded access to health care to all children and affordable prescription drugs for older adults. He championed and signed into law Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive measure to substantially reform the local tax system by providing urgently needed property tax relief to homeowners. In 2008-09 taxpayers will save nearly $800 million in the first year of statewide property tax relief from gaming revenues. Gov. Rendell is continuing to work on building on his efforts to make government more responsible to the public, and more responsive to the public's needs. He has annually cut wasteful spending and improved efficiency to save more than $1 billion and is pursuing a legislative agenda that includes common sense political reforms to put progress ahead of partisanship.

Rhode Island SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Rhode Island is Gov. Don Carcieri. In April 2002, Don Carcieri took the podium at the historic and flag draped Varnum Armory in his hometown of East Greenwich to formally announce CARCIERI his grass roots candidacy for Governor on the Republican ticket. As 250 people in the packed hall cheered, he told them: “My name is Don Carcieri and I want to be your next Governor!” He had never run for any elected office except his town’s home rule charter commission. Focusing his campaign on the need to rein in state spending and balance the budget, demand integrity in government, and create a coordinated plan for statewide economic redevelopment, Don Carcieri came from behind to defeat the endorsed candidate in a highly contested primary. Hammering home his call for a Clean Start in state government, he defeated the Democrat candidate in the November election. The man from East Greenwich had bested a candidate who had over 15 years of political experience and had mounted two campaigns for Governor.

South Carolina SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of South Carolina is Gov. Mark Sanford. His administration has been marked by a focus on improving the lives of the people of South Carolina. By creating more economic opportunity, by

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HAVE INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE PUBLISHED HERE? EMAIL THE INFORMATION TO US AT: NEWS@PEOPLEDOINGBUSINESS.COM watching out for the taxpayer, by working to reform government structure, by opening up South Carolina's political system, and by bettering quality of life in the state, change of long-antiquated systems is beginning and South Carolina is becomSANFORD ing more competitive in the global economy. Further restructuring of South Carolina's antiquated system of government continues to be one of his top priorities in his efforts to bring more accountability and costeffectiveness to the state.

South Dakota SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of South Dakota is Gov. Mike Rounds.

Governor Rounds is encouraging South Dakotans to make healthy choices that lead to longer, healthier lives, and he has initiated an effort in state government to ROUNDS help state employees make healthy choices. He is encouraging every South Dakotan to follow this lead. Mike, the oldest of 11 children, was born in Huron, S.D., and is a lifelong resident of Pierre. He earned a Bachelors of Science degree in political science from South Dakota State University in Brookings and met his wife, Jean, of Lake Preston, while attending the university.

Tennessee SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Tennessee is Gov. Phil Bredesen.

Before serving as Tennessee’s governor, Bredesen served as mayor of Nashville from 1991 to 1999, working with community leaders to chart a BREDESEN course that made Music City U.S.A. one of the best places in America to live, work and raise a family. Under his leadership, Nashville invested nearly $500 million to build new schools and hire new teachers. The city developed a state-of-the-art library system, redeveloped downtown, expanded its park system and drove down the crime rate. Also during Bredesen’s tenure, Nashville enjoyed record economic growth by recruiting high-quality jobs and companies such as Dell Computer Corp. and HCA Inc. He led the city’s efforts to recruit two professional sports teams: the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL's Nashville Predators. Phil Bredesen was born on November 21,1943. He grew up in rural Shortsville, N.Y., and earned a bachelor's degree in physics from Harvard University.

Texas SPOTLIGHT — A fifth generation Texan, Governor Rick Perry has taken an extraordinary Texas journey, from a tenant farm in the rolling West Texas plains to the governor’s office of our nation’s second largest state. Governor Perry’s PERRY administration has focused on creating a Texas of unlimited opportunity and prosperity by improving education, securing the border and increasing economic development through classical conservative values.

Starting with his election as lieutenant governor in 1999, Rick Perry has worked to build a stronger safety net for the poorest of the poor. The number of children with health insurance under Medicaid and CHIP has more than doubled since 1999. He is also working to expand opportunities for the private sector to offer health insurance, and signed legislation allowing small businesses to pool together to offer affordable health insurance policies.

Utah SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Utah is Gov. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. During Governor Huntsman’s tenure, Utah has been repeatedly recognized by many prestigious organizations for its dynamism, business climate and quality of life. Perhaps most importantly, Utah has been named by the Pew Center as the Best Managed State in America.

Even in times of economic hardship, Governor Huntsman has worked collaboratively with legislators and his cabinet to minimize impacts to critical human services while maintaining job-stimulating construction projects and keeping the HUNTSMAN State’s Rainy Day Fund in tact as a tool for any future fiscal distress. Governor Jon Huntsman was elected to a second term in last November with a record percent of the voters, including the majority in all 29 of Utah’s counties. As he begins his last four years, Governor Huntsman continues his commitment bolstering Utah's competitive economic development climate. He believes maintaining Utah’s unparalleled quality of life is key to increasing the state's economic competitiveness which is essential to continue funding Utah's critical public education system.

Vermont SPOTLIGHT — Governor Jim Douglas has been serving the people of Vermont for more than thirty years. Elected to the Vermont House of Representatives in 1972-the same year he graduated from Middlebury College - his influence as a DOUGLAS legislator increased quickly, becoming assistant majority leader in his second term and majority leader in his third term at the age of twenty-five. Governor Douglas retired from the state legislature in 1979 to become a top aide to Governor Richard Snelling. Outside of government and politics, Governor Douglas has been active in many community organizations. He’s a past President of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce and Porter Medical Center. He was master of his Masonic Lodge, Treasurer of the State 4-H Foundation and President of the Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ. He has served on the boards of the Mary Johnson Day Care Center, the Counseling Service of Addison County, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and the United Ways of both Addison County and Vermont. He continues to served as Town Moderator for Middlebury, a post he has held for more than twenty years.

Virginia SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Virginia is Gov. Tim Kaine. Under Governor Kaine’s leadership, Virginia boasts one of the highest median incomes and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. While he has kept Virginia a business-friendly KAINE state, Governor Kaine has also worked for consumers, strengthening consumer privacy protections and identifying theft protections by requiring companies to notify customers if their records are accessed by an unauthorized person and allowing consumers to freeze access to their credit report to protect it. Governor Kaine entered political life in 1994 and was elected to four terms on the City Council, including two terms as Richmond's mayor, where he worked to build Richmond’s first new schools in a generation, cut taxes and slash the city’s crime rate. Richmond’s success in reducing violent crime won national recognition from Presidents Clinton and Bush and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The improvements in Richmond’s economy during Kaine’s tenure earned the city its first-ever listing in Forbes Magazine’s annual ranking of the top 10 cities in America for doing business.

Washington SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Washington is Gov. Chris Gregoire.

Facing a $2.2 billion budget shortfall when she took office in 2005, Governor Gregoire balanced the state’s budget as she expanded health care coverage to low-income children, led an effort to GREGOIRE make government more efficient and accountable, introduced a plan to create a world class education system, and launched a bold plan to save Puget Sound. In 2007, she proposed and the voters passed a constitutionally protected rainy day fund to help the state prepare for economic downturns like we face today.

Governor Gregoire is committed to promoting and expanding business and creating family-wage jobs in the state of Washington. The governor's “Next Washington” plan lays out strategies and initiatives to encourage business development and growth, and has helped lead to the creation of more than 200,000 jobs in Washington since she took office. Forbes magazine recently ranked Washington as the 3rd best state to do business. Fortune magazine recently ranked Washington in the top five to start a small business.

West Virginia SPOTLIGHT— The current Governor of West Virginia is Gov. Joe Manchin, III. This Governor inherited a head for business from his grandfather, who was an Italian immigrant and the town grocer.

His grandmother was a virtual onewoman social services agency, who MANCHIN helped him discover his heart for people.

After attending West Virginia University on a football scholarship, he became a successful businessman. He was a state legislator from 1982-1996, where he earned a reputation for standing up for West Virginians. As governor, Joe Manchin has improved West Virginia’s economic climate, while reducing the state's long-term debt and lowering taxes for citizens and businesses. He is committed to making health care affordable and accessible, creating a seamless education system for the children of West Virginia, ensuring prescription drug assistance for seniors and providing more support for our veterans.

Wisconsin SPOTLIGHT — The current governor of Wisconsin is Gov. Jim Doyle. When he took office in 2003, Governor Doyle inherited the largest budget deficit in Wisconsin history - a $3.2 billion hole.

By making deep and often difficult cuts in state government, he was able to balDOYLE ance the budget without hurting priorities like education and without raising taxes. Now Governor Doyle is working to move Wisconsin forward creating jobs, expanding access to health care, and most importantly, investing in Wisconsin's future: our kids.

Governor Doyle is working to make health care more affordable and available to all Wisconsin citizens. As a first step, Governor Doyle is working to make all health care premiums tax free. He has fought to save and expand SeniorCare - Wisconsin’s model prescription drug program - and is a leading national advocate for allowing citizens to buy safe, affordable prescription drugs from Canada. He is also expanding Family Care statewide, so that seniors and people with disabilities can get care in their own homes and communities instead of being forced into nursing homes. Governor Doyle’s parents were founding members of the modern Democratic Party in Wisconsin and he credits them for instilling in him the belief that politics and government are honorable professions, and that public service is a way to improve people's lives.

Wyoming SPOTLIGHT— The current governor of Wyoming is Gov. Dave Freudenthal. Gov. Frudenthal was born in Thermopolis in 1950, the seventh of eight children, and grew up on the family farm north of town. To help pay for college, he earned money by working construction during the summer.

FREUDENTHAL His jobs included working rigs and building tanks as a member of the National Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Blacksmiths Union. After graduating from Amherst College in 1973, he returned to Wyoming to take a position as an economist for the Wyoming Department of Economic Planning and Development. Governor Ed Herschler appointed him State Planning Coordinator in 1975. While working for the state, Freudenthal simultaneously earned a law degree from the University of Wyoming. After graduating from law school, he opened his own law office in Cheyenne in 1980; this office grew into a general practice firm that represented individuals and businesses. In 1994, he was appointed United States Attorney for Wyoming, a position that he held until May 2001. Away from his job as governor, he enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and restoring sheepwagons, airstream trailers, and antique furniture.

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SHOWCASE THE BUSINESS CONNECTIONS SHOWCASE is a monthly platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Aubrey R. Taylor Communications makes every effort to check the authenticity of our advertisements, we accept no responsibility or liability for the contents therein.

The advertiser assures that advertisements will not contain any matter that is libelous or violates any person's right of privacy or constitutes copyright infringement or is otherwise contrary to law. The advertiser assumes all responsibility in connection with the advertisement placed in this publication. Aubrey R. Taylor Communications shall be held harmless from any claim, loss, damage (including reasonable attorneys' fees) that may be incurred or suffered for any reason including but not limited to a breach of any kind associated with advertisers included in this section. What are you waiting for? Call today to get started! Advertising in this section is an excellent way to promote your business in 2009!

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I think about Greensburg, Kansas, a town that was completely destroyed by a tornado, but is being rebuilt by its residents as a global example of how clean energy can power an entire community - how it can bring jobs and businesses to a place where piles of bricks and rubble once lay.

“The tragedy was terrible,” said one of the men who helped them rebuild. “But the folks here know that it also provided an incredible opportunity.”

And I think about Ty’Sheoma Bethea, the young girl from that school I visited in Dillon, South Carolina - a place where the ceilings leak, the paint peels off the walls, and they have to stop teaching six times a day because the train barrels by their classroom. She has been told that her school is hopeless, but the other day after class she went to the public library and typed up a letter to the people sitting in this room. She even asked her principal for the money to buy a stamp. The letter asks us for help, and says, “We are just students trying to become lawyers, doctors, congressmen like yourself and one day president, so we can make a change to not just the state of South Carolina but also the world. We are not quitters.”

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We are not quitters.

These words and these stories tell us something about the spirit of the people who sent us here. They tell us that even in the most trying times, amid the most difficult circumstances, there is a generosity, a resilience, a decency, and a determination that perseveres; a willingness to take responsibility for our future and for posterity.

Their resolve must be our inspiration.

Their concerns must be our cause. And we must show them and all our people that we are equal to the task before us.

I know that we haven’t agreed on every issue thus far, and there are surely times in the future when we will part ways.

But I also know that every American who is sitting here tonight loves this country and wants it to succeed. That must be the starting point for every debate we have in the coming months, and where we return after those debates are done. That is the foundation on which the American people expect us to build common ground.

And if we do - if we come together and lift this nation from the depths of this crisis; if we put our people back to work and restart the engine of our prosperity; if we confront without fear the challenges of our time and summon that enduring spirit of an America that does not quit, then someday years from now our children can tell their children that this was the time when we performed, in the words that are carved into this very chamber, “something worthy to be remembered.” Thank you, God Bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

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DELANEY: Nonprofits Should Provide the Bold, Proactive Leadership Our Communities Seek

By Tim Delaney, Esq., President & CEO, National Council of Nonprofits “These are the times that try men’s souls,” wrote Thomas Paine in 1776 when helping to launch American independence. His words still ring true today, given the current economic despair and growing uncertainty about the future. Our families, colleagues, constituents, friends, and neighbors feel threatened. Everyone yearns for earnest leaders who will show the way to a better collective future. Today’s positional leaders seem nervous, however, frozen in place, fearful to step forward. Who will provide the bold, proactive leadership our communities need in these trying times?

Nonprofit leaders can. We must. For our communities, nonprofit board members and staffs can initiate bold, proactive leadership in these ways:

is not to suggest, however, that nonprofits should engage in public policy work just to defend themselves against taxation. Rather, nonprofits should be at the policymaking table to help find solutions for the broader community - with our voices heard.

Tell Our Story Persuasively Nonprofit leaders must be mindful that during these challenging times, we need to speak up for America’s nonprofits. We need to let people policy makers, journalists, and even each other - know the scope of our challenges. This is not just a “market” problem. For me, the canary in the coal mine revealing whether the economic air is toxic happens to be information about state and local

Tim Delaney is an wellknown attorney with extensive leadership experience in the business, government, and nonprofit sectors.

governments. When California warns the U.S. Treasury it may seek

an emergency infusion of $7 billion just to operate, when the Dallas Independent School District lays off hundreds of teachers in the middle of the fall semester because of budget shortfalls, and when the City of Vallejo declares bankruptcy, the canary plops from its perch.

Will it be safe to get a replacement canary any time soon? Not if you care about canaries. With recent reports about homes in Phoenix, Miami, and Los Angeles losing 29, 28, and 27 percent of their value in one year, local governments (county, city, and school districts) will be missing almost a third of their property tax base - for years to come.

Thus, the real pain has not hit yet, because property tax assessments will not be done until next year, when governments and communities will be hurt even more. So while

times are bleak now, things will get even worse as state and local governments will be stretched beyond comprehension to provide police, fire, and other basic services.

What’s this mean for nonprofits? Historically, when the economy turns wicked nonprofits get smacked by a double-whammy: at the same time that small and midsize community-based nonprofits are asked to do more to help those who have lost their jobs, their homes, and their health benefits, society also expects us to somehow perform miracles by providing those additional services with less revenues as businesses donate less, foundations have less to give, governments cut contracts or freeze reimbursement rates in contracts for services, and individuals hang onto their resources out of fear of what the future may hold for them.

Rally to Unify Our Communities “We the people.” Those three simple words are the most powerful in America. Some people will see them as the beginning of the U.S. Constitution. For me, they also symbolize something equally fundamental: every time in American history when things looked dire, we the people came together to overcome adversity. We gathered through abolitionist societies, women’s suffrage groups, community chests, churches and synagogues, March of Dimes, civil rights groups, American Red Cross, and so many more ways, whether to fight particular plights or address distinct disasters. We’ve done it before, and we can do it again to forge our way through this current crisis.

When serving as the common ground for people to connect, nonprofits must remain mindful that when situations get dreadful, people can react in diametrically opposite ways: either they come together for comfort or they fragment and fight for the scraps. We have an opportunity to help coach our communities to come together. Nonprofits can provide the forums where concerns can be constructively vented, positive values can be shared, and joint solutions to community challenges can be shaped. Fear is contagious.

Nonprofit leaders need to get ahead of the curve by coaching people to come together as communities to support each other in a healing way to avoid divisions.

Engage in Public Policy Nonprofit board members must, as in MUST, get their nonprofits proactively engaged in public policy work. As state and local governments scramble to figure out how they will balance their budgets while income, property, and sales tax revenues are all plummeting, some are starting to look at removing tax exemptions. Nonprofits can no longer sit on the sidelines.

Recognize the obvious - there is safety in numbers - and make sure your nonprofit has joined your state nonprofit association so these sector-wide threats can be monitored and responded to collectively. That 24 • WWW.PEOPLEDOINGBUSINESS.COM (OR) WWW.HOUSTON—BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM I Call: 832.212.8735 To Join Our People Doing Business Series!