Volume 20 Number 2 Spring/Summer 2007 www.ci.friendswood.tx.us

Inside This Issue...

The Fourth of July Steering Committee and the City of Friendswood presented the 112th annual Friendswood Fourth of July Celebration on Wednesday, July 4, 2007. The daylong celebration was full of entertainment, food and fun for the entire family, as the theme for this year’s celebration was “Red, White & You-A Family Fourth of July”.

The daylong celebration kicked off with the Grand Parade that traveled down Friendswood Dr. The parade featured over 100 entries from Friendswood

and around the State of Texas. After the parade, over 30 booth entries and live entertainment provided the backdrop for the daytime activities in the City Hall parking lot, due to the weather.

The evening program was held at Centennial Park. Blues entertainer H a m i l t o n L o o m i s headlined the evening entertainment, and other local performers rounded out the evening. A fantastic fireworks extravaganza choreographed to patriotic music proved to be one of the finest fireworks displays in the area.

2007 Fourth of July Celebration“Red, White & You - A Family Fourth of July”

Page 2

New Public Safety Building.

Pages 3 & 12

Library Corner

Pages 4-6

New Businesses

Page 7-10

Emergency Preparedness Guide

Page 11

Senior Program Events

Page 13

Summer Pool Schedule

Page 14

Public Works Projects

Page 15

Heritage Gardeners

Page 16

Community Calendar

2 Focus on Friendswood

Saturday, April 21, 2007, the Community Appearance Board of the City of Friendswood held the annual “Spring Sparkle” cleanup at Old City Park in Friendswood. The event proved to be a huge success, as many turned out to drop off trash, green waste, and recyclables. Items collected include:

• 90 cubic yards of green waste • 30 cubic yards of items to be sent to Habitat for Humanity• 120 cubic yards of trash • 40 cubic yards of steel/metal• 100 cubic yards of loose trash The annual Spring Sparkle and Fall Haul-A-Day events allow Friendswood residents the opportunity to dispose of

large trash items. Some of these items are recycled for further use. For additional information, please contact the City of Friendswood Community Services department at 281-996-3220.

Spring Sparkle Cleanup

From concept to reality, the City of Friendswood’s new Public Safety Building is now operational at 1600 Whitaker Drive. The 28,329-square-foot facility houses the City’s Police Department, Fire Marshal’s Office, Municipal Court and Emergency Operations Center.

The new building features a 10,000 square foot hardened core that is rated to withstand a hurricane force winds up to 165 mph, a generator able to generate enough power to operate all essential systems during a power outage, a state of the art communications center, a 19 inmate jail detention area which is expandable to hold up to 54 inmates, a municipal court room built big enough for the city’s growth to build out, a segregated juvenile processing area,

New Friendswood Public Safety Building

full facility security camera system, an Intoxilyzer instrument used to determine breath-alcohol content for those suspected of driving drunk and an Automated Fingerprint Identification System integrated with Harris County.

The Official Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies were held Friday, June 29. Many dignitaries, elected officials and members of the local law enforcement community were in attendance. A ceremonial flag presentation began the event. Guided tours of the building followed the ceremony. The next day, Saturday, June 30, the Public Safety Building was again open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for tours and static displays of Public Safety vehicles and equipment.

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SUMMER READING PROGRAMS 2007

“Sail Away With Books”Summer Schedule 2007

Children, Tween, Young Adults (YA)The Friendswood Public Library’s Summer Reading

Program began in May with the theme of “Sail Away with Books”. Enjoy fun and games inside the library – join the Texas Reading Club. The club is for youngsters ages 0 to 18 or grade 12. Younger children may listen to books while older children read their books. Summer Programs are for youngsters of all ages. Free tickets are given one week before each event. Due to limited seating in the library meeting rooms, everyone (including adults and children) needs a ticket.

JULY PROGRAMS

2 Make a mouse pad craft (5-7 yrs), 1:30 p.m.

Approximately 30 minutes

3, 6 Toddlertime – 10:10 a.m. Storytime for children, birth to 3 1/2 years

10-13 Approximately 20 minutes17, 18 20, 24 Storytime – 10:45 a.m. for children ages 3 – 6 yrs25, 27 Approximately 30 minutes31

JULY PROGRAMS

3 Merlin and the Dragon by Dan Brinkman of Party Animals. The fun-filled magic of Camelot’s #1 wizard.

Filled with surprises and wonderful “tails” of dragons and knights.

Tuesday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

5 Sail into Neverland by Dan Brinkman of Party Animals.

Hook and Pan are at it again. Help solve the mystery of Tinkerbell’s disappearance. They’ll need your help to keep from making a mess of Neverland.

Thurs., 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approx. 30 minutes

6 Chocolate!!! Tween/YA Combined, 1:30 p.m. 8 Swim Party for reading 30 books

in the Texas Reading Club. For youngsters age 6 or over who have

completed kindergarten to age 18. Permission slips need to be turned in by July 5. Sunday, 5-7 p.m.

9 Compass Necklace Craft (5-7 yrs), 1:30 p.m.

Approx. 30 minutes 10 Going Wild with Animals. Learn about native wildlife. By Margaret Prickell, Wildlife Ambassador Tuesday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

11 Fun With Science! Cecily Haley, 1:30 p.m.

Tween - 3:30 p.m. YA

12 Steve Burton’s Magic Show. Thurs., 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approx. 30 min.

13 Sculpting! Mike Quinn, 1:30 p.m. Tween - 3:30 p.m. YA 14 Movie Matinee - Tween/YA

Combined, 1:30 p.m.

16 Sailboat Craft (5-7 yrs), 1:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

17 Harry Potter Magic Show by Prof. Chrome Dome. Tuesday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

18 Bookmarks! Tween and YA Girls - 1:30 p.m. Boys - 3:30 p.m.

19 What’s Bugging You: about real bugs. By Dr. William Johnson, Galveston County Extension Thursday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

20 Bookmarks! Tween and YA Combined, 1:30 p.m.

21 Wolf’s Story: a puppet show by Charles Kubricht.

Saturday, 10:30 a.m. Approximately 30 minutes

23 Pirate Hat Craft (5 –7 yrs), 1:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

24 La-Luna Circus:

4 Focus on Friendswood

Point of View gifts and décor opened for business at 210 E. Parkwood, Suite C, at the corner of FM 528 and FM 518.

Pooch Me! Doggie Boutique is opened to sell specialty items for canines at 1616 S. Friendswood Drive at the corner of FM 528.

Wachovia Bank is nearing completion on a new facility in the Friendswood Crossing Shopping Center located at 200 W. Parkwood.

NEW BUSINESSES IN FRIENDSWOODBling Blings and Drama Queens, an upscale resale shop

for men, women and children of all sizes, recently opened in the Captain’s Corner Shopping Center located at 607 S. Friendswood Drive, Suite 28, at the corner of FM 2351.

Ace Cash Express is now open in the Friendswood Square Shopping Center located at FM 2351 and FM 518, 108 W. Edgewood Drive #5.

Banfield Properties broke ground in May and is nearing completion on Banfield Office Park at 301 Laurel at the corner of Shadowbend and Laurel. Phase I of the downtown

project will include a 6,000 sq. ft. office building. Phase II will add another 12,000 sq. ft. of office space. Both projects are to accommodate expansion and growth of existing Friendswood businesses.

Focus on Friendswood 5

MORE NEW BUSINESSES IN FRIENDSWOOD

Acadiana Plaza is nearing completion with several tenants finishing their build-outs.

Jake’s Grill, Melange Gallery of Salons, and Babbo Bruno Ristorante Italiano will soon open for business at the corner of FM 528 and Sunset Drive.

Currently under construction at 111 Woodland Trail at FM 2351 is Heritage Animal Hospital’s new facility.

Fast Frame and Brian’s Jewelry recently opened for business in the Autumn Creek Shopping Center located on FM 528 at Bay Area Boulevard.

6 Focus on Friendswood

MORE NEW BUSINESSES IN FRIENDSWOOD

Nature’s Garden, a natural health center, will soon open at 400 W. Parkwood, #112 at the corner of Blackhawk Blvd.

Kid’s Planet, a health and fitness gym for children, recently opened at 607 S. Friendswood Drive, Suite 28.

Friendswood United Methodist Church - The new facility is rapidly gaining stature on Friendswood Drive.

West Ranch - The entrance to the subdivision promises to be an impressive structure.

VRT Fitness, Virtual Reality Trainer Fitness has recently opened a workout center next to My Closet Your Closet in the retail center cornering FM 518/FM 528.

Enterprise Leasing Company just opened for business in the Friendswood Plaza Shopping Center at 114 E. Edgewood Drive.

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September is National Preparedness Month! Do you have a family emergency plan? Local, state and federal officials are urging citizens to become better prepared by developing a plan, putting together an emergency supply kit, and learning more about what to do during natural disasters and any emergency situation.

The Friendswood Office of Emergency Management has many systems in place to warn the citizens of an impending emergency, potential danger, or hazardous conditions. Please look to these warning devices for your information and protection.

NEWS ALERTS

Citizens can register for instant e-mail alerts regarding emergency notices or information. These notices will be generated automatically from the City to the e-mail address that is registered. Go to the City’s website - www.ci.friendswood.tx.us - and click on “Sign Up for News Alerts”. Your personal information will remain private and you will receive e-mails involving only official City business.

LISTEN FOR THE WARNING SIRENS!

For over eight years now the City of Friendswood has had an Outdoor Warning Siren System in place. A total of seven sirens have been installed throughout the city that can be activated in the event of a serious emergency. The City urges citizens to do the following if they hear the sirens:

1. Stay inside/indoors 2. Stay off the phone-may be contacted via the First Call or NEWS system 3. Listen to Friendswood Radio AM 1650 or local news 4. Do not call 9-1-1 unless you need to report an emergency5. In the event of power outages, do not call 9-1-1, contact your local power provider

The Outdoor Warning Siren System is tested on the first Friday of every month at 12 Noon.

FRIENDSWOOD INFORMATION RADIO – A VALUABLE RESOURCE

The City of Friendswood Information Radio WPMZ659 is being broadcast on AM 1650 on your radio dial. There is also a re-broadcast of the Houston/Galveston National Weather Service, as well as other important local information.

FIRST CALL AND NEWS

The City of Friendswood has been protected by the First Call Notification System for seven years. The City of Friendswood also has access to the Harris County Neighborhood Early Warning System (NEWS). Both of these systems are telephone-based community warning systems for major emergencies in the city and surrounding communities. These systems allow the City to quickly alert citizens in the area affected or if need be, the entire city, of an emergency, potential danger or hazardous condition. The system, when directed, will begin calling all the phone numbers in the affected area, alerting those individuals to the situation and how to protect themselves. Citizens with unlisted numbers, who wish to be part of the Notification System, are encouraged to contact First Calls’ registration line at 866-484-3264 or sign-up on-line at www.firstcall.net and click, UNLISTED REGISTRATION on the left-hand column.

Contact the Office of Emergency Management at 281-996-3335, if you have any questions or concerns.

8 Focus on Friendswood

Your Family Hurricane Plan ChecklistBe prepared before the hurricane❏ Know the storm surge history and elevation of

the area. (Emergency Management and National Weather Service officials can help supply this information)

❏ Learn a safe primary and alternate route inland.❏ If plans calls for evacuation, decide ahead of time

where you are going and know what to bring with you.

❏ Inventory all property...with video equipment if possible...and review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage is provided. Remember, flood insurance must be in effect 30 days before a storm enters the Gulf of Mexico.

❏ Review needs and working condition of emergency eouipment, such as first aid kit, flashlights, battery-powered radios, non-perishable food, water containers for two weeks supply, camping stove with fuel and plywood and plastics necessary to properly secure the home.

❏ Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Cut weak branches and trees that could fall against the house.

❏ Keep and store all legal documents in one easily moved, secure container or safe. Make an inventory of documents, photos, and other irreplaceable articles that need to be taken in case of an evacuation.

When a Hurricane Watch is issued(A WATCH means hurricane conditions pose a possible

threat to the watch area within 36 hours)

❏ Frequently monitor radio, TV, NOAA Weather Radio, or hurricane hotline telephone numbers for official bulletins of the storm’s progress.

❏ Fuel and service all family vehicles.❏ Inspect and secure mobile home tie downs.❏ Prepare to cover all window and door openings with

shutters or plywood.❏ Check food and water supplies. (Have clean, air-

tight containers on hand to store at least two weeks of drinking water. Allow 14 gallons per person. Stock up on canned and non-perishable provisions. Get camping stove with fuel.)

❏ Keep a small cooler with frozen gel packs handy for packing refrigerated items.

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❏ Check prescription medicines -- obtain at least 10 days to two weeks supply.

❏ Stock up on extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and lanterns and check for ample first aid supplies.

❏ Store and secure outdoor lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects, such as garbage cans, garden tools, potted plants, etc.

❏ Have extra supply of cash on hand. ATM’s may not be working during a storm.

When a Hurricane Warning is issued(A WARNING means sustained winds of 74 mph or

higher are expected in the area within 24 hours or less.)

❏ Closely monitor radio, TV, NOAA Weather Radio, or hurricane hotline telephone numbers for official bulletins.

❏ Follow instructions issued by local officials. LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF ORDERED TO DO SO.

❏ Complete preparation activities, such as putting up storm shutters, storing loose objects, filling up water containers, etc.

❏ Evacuate areas that might be affected by storm surge flooding.

❏ If evacuating, turn off and disconnect appliances from outlets...as a precaution to prevent further damage. If evacuating, leave early and if possible, during daylight hours.

❏ Leave all mobile homes in any case.❏ Notify neighbors and family members outside of

the warned area of evacuation plans.

IF YOU ARE EVACUATING...■ Stay with friends or relatives or at a low-rise inland

hotel/motel outside of flood zones. Leave early to avoid heavy traffic, roads blocked by early floodwaters, and bridges impassable due to high winds.

■ Put food and water out for pets if you cannot take them with you.

■ Hurricane shelters will be available for people who have no other place to go. Shelters may be crowded and uncomfortable, with no privacy and no electricity. Do not leave home for a shelter until

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Need A Ride? Be Proactive!

Dial 2-1-1Hurricane season officially continues

through November 30. The Governor’s Division of Emergency Management is reminding residents with special assistance needs who live in hurricane evacuation zones to register for transportation as soon as possible.

Residents with special health care needs (including those who are disabled or medically fragile) who live in evacuation zones and do not have friends or family to help in an evacuation should register for a ride by dialing 2-1-1. The 2-1-1 registry must be dialed in advance of an actual hurricane evacuation.

For more information on hurricane preparedness tips, residents can visit the Governor’s Division of Emergency Management website at http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem.

government officials announce on radio and/or TV that a particular shelter is open.

■ Disconnect all appliances.

WHAT TO BRING TO A SHELTER...

First-aid kit, medicines, baby food and diapers, cards, games, books, toiletries, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, identification, valuable papers (insurance), and cash.

IF YOU ARE STAYING AT HOME...

(Reminder! Only stay home if not been ordered to leave. If told to leave, DO SO IMMEDIATELY.)

✓ Store water. Fill sterilized jugs and bottles with two weeks supply of drinking water. Fill bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.

✓ Turn refrigerator to maximum cold and open only when necessary.

✓ Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities.✓ Turn off propane tanks.✓ Unplug small appliances.✓ Stay inside the home at all times.

If Winds Become Strong...■ Stay away from windows and doors even if they

are covered. Take refuge in a small ground floor, interior room, closet, or hallway. Take a battery-powered radio, a NOAA Weather Radio, and a flashlight.

■ Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors, particularly double inward opening doors and garage doors.

■ If in a multiple-story building and away from the water, go to the first or second floors and take refuge in the halls or other interior rooms away from windows. Interior stairwells and the areas around elevator shafts are generally the strongest part of a building.

NOTES: Be alert for tornadoes, which often are spawned by hurricanes. Also, if the “EYE” of the hurricane should pass over your area, be aware that the improved weather conditions are only temporary and that the storm conditions will return with winds coming from the opposite direction some times in a period of just a few minutes.

After the storm passes…

■ Stay in protected area until announcements are made on the radio or TV that the dangerous winds have passed.

■ If already evacuated, do not return home until officials announce area is ready. Remember, proof of residency may be required in order to re-enter the evacuation areas.

■ Be aware of the surroundings when returning as extreme damage could render a familiar landscape unrecognizable.

Your Family Hurricane Plan Checklist

10 Focus on Friendswood

Reminders: ❏ Get a two-week supply of emergency

supplies ready. ❏ Make the Emergency Supply Kit portable if living in an evacuation zone. ❏ Gather supplies for children, the elderly and disabled persons. ❏ Keep supplies on hand in a safe room.

Emergency Supply Kit: (two-week supply) ❏ Battery-operated alarm clock

❏ Baby food, diapers, formula ❏ Battery-operated radio and TV ❏ Enough batteries for radio, TV and flashlights for several days ❏ Blankets and pillows ❏ Bleach (no lemon or additives) ❏ Butane lighter ❏ Canned and dry food ❏ Cans, gas and oil ❏ Cash, credit cards

❏ Change of clothes for everyone in the family ❏ Cooler for clean water ❏ Driver’s license ❏ Eating and cooking utensils

Emergency Supply Checklist

This emergency supply kit is adequate for all hazards, whether it be hurricanes, floods, or manmade disasters.

Emergency Numbers and Web Sites

Friendswood Police/Fire/EMS Emergency .........................................................................9-1-1Friendswood Office of Emergency Management .................................................281-996-3335Friendswood Police Non-Emergency ...................................................................281-996-3300

Houston/Galveston National Weather Service ..............................http://www.srh.noaa.gov/hgxNational Hurricane Center/Tropical Prediction Center ...................... .http://www.nhc.noaa.govHarris County .....................................................................................http://www.co.harris.tx.usGalveston County ........................................................................ http://www.co.galveston.tx.us

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❏ Emergency cooking facilities (grill or camp stove) ❏ Extra pet food ❏ Fire extinguisher ❏ First Aid Kit ❏ Flashlights (one for everyone in the family) ❏ Fuel up the car ❏ Gas for grill (fill tank) ❏ Gloves and goggles ❏ Glasses and/or contact lenses ❏ Heavy shoes ❏ Important phone numbers ❏ Insurance information ❏ Medicines and prescriptions ❏ Non-electric can opener ❏ Pots and pans ❏ Portable cooler ❏ Sleeping bags ❏ Soap, shampoo and toiletries ❏ Toilet paper and towelettes ❏ Toys for children ❏ Valuable papers ❏ Water purification tablets ❏ Water - 14 gallons per person

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SENIORS HAVE EVENTFUL SUMMER PLANS

Friendswood Seniors have been busy this spring and have no plans to slow down this summer! The Annual Senior Picnic was held April 18, at Centennial Park. A fun crowd enjoyed the beautiful weather and delicious hot dogs with all the trimmings!

A special celebration for Cinco de Mayo was held May 3, at the Friendswood Activity Building. About 130 attended and enjoyed great Mexican food catered by La Casita and entertainment by KRBB band.

Future Senior Program Events include:

Watermelon Bash Wednesday, July 25 1-2 p.m. Centennial Park

Ice Cream Social Thursday, August 9 1-2 p.m. Activity Building

Autumn Dance Friday, September 28 7-10 p.m. Activity Building

Bus service is available for seniors who need transportation for activities and daily lunches. Seniors must call a day ahead to schedule a ride on the bus.

Ages: 55 or olderDays/Times: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Dates: ` All yearFees: FreeLocation: Activity Building, 416 MorningsideFor more information on future events please contact

the City of Friendswood Senior Program Coordinator, Genie Balderaz, at 281-482-8441.

The City of Friendswood’s Fifth Annual KIDFISH event took place on Sunday, April 15 at the Centennial Park Pond. Kids from all over the community, as well as adults took advantage of a beautiful day to participate in the fishing competition.

The KIDFISH Foundation stocked over 750 pounds of adult fish in the pond for participants to catch. KIDFISH is a non-profit outreach program designed to give children 16 and under the chance to experience the sport of fishing and the outdoors.

Although not required, a minimum donation of $10 allowed participants to receive awards such as t-shirts, hats and trophies. All funds go toward expanding the KIDFISH Program. All children received a goody bag, KIDFISH ribbon, and diploma. Longest fish winners, first and second place in each age group received a large trophy.

The City of Friendswood Community Services Department would like to thank the sponsors for the KIDFISH event, including Cornerstone Maintenance, Inc., Hometown Bank of Friendswood, RE/MAX Cornerstone, Patriot Bank, the Goza family, Edward Jones and Luna’s Mexican Restaurant.

KIDFISH EVENT NETS CROWD

The overall KIDFISH winner was three-year-oldSammes Whittey. Sammes competed in the six and under group. His fish was the largest catch of the

day, 19 ½ inches.

12 Focus on Friendswood

Library Corner Continued

A marionette show by James Gibson. Join Amanda on a whirl-wind adventure

under the Big Top. Tuesday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

25 Veterinarian, Ann Divney, 1:30 p.m. Tween and YA Combined

26 Play: title to be announced by Bay Area Harbour Playhouse. Thursday, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

27 Booknic! Tween and YA combined, 1:30 p.m.

30 Beach Scene Craft (5-7 yrs), 1:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

31 Movie: Garfield in Paradise. Join Garfield and his family for a funny

adventure on a tropical island. Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

AUGUST PROGRAMS

1, 3, 7 Toddlertime – 10:10 a.m. Storytime for children, from birth to 3 1/2 years

8, 10 Approximately 20 minutes

Storytime – 10:45 a.m. for children ages 3 – 6 yrs. Approximately 30 minutes

1 Movie Matinee Tween and YA combined, 1:30 p.m.

2 U.S. Navy Seals: Learn about Rescues. Meet a Navy Seal.

By MCI Jason Heavner, U.S. Navy. Thurs., 1:30 p.m. Approx. 30 min.

3 Freaky Friday, 7-9 p.m. Tweens and YA combined

6 Gymnastics Demonstration by A. A. Gymnastics Monday, 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

7 Movie: Garfield in Hollywood. Garfield auditions for a TV talent show. Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. Approximately 30 minutes

9 Ronald MacDonald Magic Show 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Approx. 30 minutes

READING CLUBS

Join the Friendswood Public Library Texas Reading Club May 24 or anytime thereafter! Detailed information is available through the Children’s Department. All prizes and Reading Club certificates must be picked up by Monday, August 13.

Texas Reading Club: This club is for youngsters ages 0 to age 18 or grade 12. Younger children may listen to books while older children read their books.

Code Enforcement NewsCode Enforcement strives to ensure compliance with

all ordinances of the City.

Code Enforcement personnel investigate complaints concerning the possibility of unlawful work done without proper permits, licenses, occupancy, land use violations, substandard and dangerous building complaints, right-of-way complaints, sign violations, and high grass and weeds.

To report possible code violations, please call 281-996-3236.

1. How can I find out about city codes?

The codes are available online at www.municode.com 2. What are some common complaints that code enforcement officers investigate?

Weeds and grass over nine (9) inches in height, inoperable vehicles, unsanitary pools, drainage, dilapidated fences.

3. How can I make a complaint?

Complaints may be filed at Friendswood City Hall with the Code Enforcement Officer or by phone at 281-996-3236. Written complaints may be filed by e-mail to fwdcity@ci.friendswood.tx.us; by fax at 281-996-3260, or by regular mail to 910 S. Friendswood Dr., Friendswood, TX 77546, Attn: Code Enforcement.

4. What if I want to stay anonymous?

You may choose to stay anonymous, however, the code enforcement officer will not be able to inform you of any actions taken or planned.

5. What are the procedures after filing the compliant?

After the violation is confirmed, a notice is sent to the property owner directing them to remove or correct the violation within 10 days of the service of such notice. If additional actions are necessary, they will be conducted according to regulations in the Friendswood City Code.

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National Night Out In Friendswood Tuesday, August 7

SESQUICENTENNIAL SWIMMING POOLOPEN FOR SUMMER SEASON

The public is invited to make a “S P L A S H !” at the Friendswood City Pool this summer. The regular season hours started Tuesday, May 29, and will continue until Sunday, August 19. Regular season hours are:

Mondays:

6:30 - 8 a.m. (Adult Lap Swim)1 - 5 p.m. (CLOSED for maintenance)7 - 9:30 p.m. (Open Swim)

Saturday and Sunday:

1 - 5 p.m. (Open Swim) 7 - 9:30 p.m. (Open Swim)

A variety of different pool passes can be purchased at the pool. The fee for a family pass is $75 (Resident) and $85 (Non-Resident). Individual pool passes are $45 (Resident) and $55 (Non-Resident) and 20-visit passes cost $15 (Resident) and $30 (Non-Resident). The daily entry fee is only $1 for residents and $2 for non-residents. Friendswood Seniors 55 and up can swim for free.

Private pool parties can be scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer. The times available for rental are 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m. The fee is $35 per hour (Resident) and $45 for (Non-Residents) plus $8 per hour per lifeguard (required). Parties can be scheduled by calling the City Pool at 281-482-0936 or the Community Services Department at 281-996-3220.

For questions regarding the pool, please call 281-996-3220 or the pool during regular hours at 281-482-0936. Have a fun and safe swim season!

Each year, the fi rst Tuesday in August, thousands of neighborhoods across the United States take part in National Night Out (NNO), getting to know their neighbors and local law enforcement. This year the event takes place on Tuesday, August 7, and Friendswood police are already accepting registrations for HOA and neighborhood block parties.

Crime Prevention Offi cer Kevin Crouch is the National Night Out event coordinator. Please contact him at 281-996-3316, or e-mail at KCrouch@ci.friendswood.tx.us to request a police offi cer for your NNO event.

Offi cers assigned to the events will be able to spend quality time speaking about crime prevention and interacting with everyone. Offi cers will be assigned to subdivisions on a fi rst-come, fi rst-serve basis, so register early. Larger subdivisions are encouraged to coordinate events into one or two single neighborhood venues.

Please call with the following information when registering your event:

• Location and time of the event

• Estimated number of people with estimated number of children

• Contact name and a contact number

Tuesday - Friday:

6:30 - 8 a.m. (Adult Lap Swim)1 - 5 p.m. (Open Swim)7 - 9:30 p.m. (Open Swim)

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Public Works Projects

Streets and DrainageThe Streets and Drainage Crews have been busy cleaning

inlets and storm drains throughout the city. A two man crew has begun the process of maintaining the City’s right-of ways; 105 acres are mowed and trimmed on a monthly basis. This work was previously contracted.

A new sidewalk was installed on Blackhawk by Smith Classic Construction in accordance with the School Safety Program.

In the 2006/2007 Asphalt Street Program, overlays were done on Winding Way, Briarmeadow, Quaker Bend, E. Castlewood, and Old Park Road. Linkwood was converted from asphalt to concrete. This program is complete for this year’s budget.

Smith Classic Construction, the contractor for the 2006/2007 Concrete Street Maintenance Program, is currently working on Dover in the Whitehall Subdivision. Previously, Smith completed street work on Independence;

between Liberty and Pilgrim. Repairs to sidewalks, wheel chair ramp additions and installation of drains are also taking place under this contract.

Water/Wastewater Operations

A new, four pump controller system designed and built by the City of Friendswood Operations Department was installed at Lift Station Number 20 in San Joaquin Subdivision. This complements the earlier change over of pumps 1 and 2. The new system features an automatic pump operation and other efficiencies of modern control panel construction techniques.

Utilities

Sewer Rehabilitation Program

The Sewer Rehab Program bid was started in May. This year the program will be targeting east and west of FM 518 from FM 528 to FM 2351. Through the program last year, the City was able to rehab 27 manholes, clean and televise 38,803 linear feet of sewer line, and CIPP (Cured-In-Place-Pipe) 2,840 linear feet of sewer main. This program has vastly improved the infrastructure of the city. The budgeted amount for this program is $300,000.

Meter Replacements

Public Works crews are working on meter change-outs in older subdivisions that are no longer reading accurately. Through this program, Public Works has changed 448 meters to ensure water is being registered correctly. The accuracy of these meters is a very important factor in the City’s efforts to maintain competitive water and wastewater rates and to meet funding needs.

Public works crew trims trees in the Forest Bend Subdivision

Public works crew replaces a missing street sign on Townes Forest Drive

Public works crew using jet machine on a sewer stoppage on FM 518

Focus on Friendswood 15

Public Works Projects

Fire Hydrant Spacing and Auditing The Fire Hydrant Spacing and Auditing program has been awarded to HydraTec Service for 2007. The budgeted amount is $35,000. This year’s program will concentrate on the area west of FM 518; starting at the county line in Annalea Subdivision working towards FM 528. In addition, Public Works will be installing ten (10) additional fire hydrants throughout the city.

Heritage Junior Master Gardeners

Friendswood Heritage Gardeners sponsors the Heritage Junior Master Gardeners, a youth garden club. The young gardeners entered the Heritage Gardeners Standard Flower show with their interpretation of the op art painting, “Currents” by B. Riley. Veronica Hardy was awarded the Youth Award for her design.

The JMG Kids Program is modeled after the highly successful Master Gardener program through Texas A & M University. The kids experience educational activities in horticultural and environmental science. The program teaches leadership and life skills development in addition to community service. For additional information, call 281-996-8736 or go to www.jmgkids.org.

Flushing the lines in West Ranch

L to R (back row) Isaac Stephens, Allison Smith, David Kincaid, Jenna Massey (front row) Veronica Hardy, Sara Kincaid, Claire

Battenfield, Zachary Mailberger and Gabrielle Black

The Heritage Gardeners Garden Club held their 15th annual Garden Tour, “Through the Garden Gate”, April 28 and 29, 2007. Five different gardens were showcased on the tour - all located in Friendswood.

The flower show theme this year, “Brushes and Blooms”, saw the designers exhibiting interpretations of fine art paintings. Betty Collier won first place and the Designer’s Choice Award for her interpretation of Picasso’s Weeping Woman. Other first place winners in their categories were Jane Davis and Josephine Eager. Kaye Corey won the

GARDENERS HOLD GARDEN TOUR AND FLOWER SHOW

Sweepstake Award for her Horticulture exhibits. Veronica Hardy won the Youth Award for her Design entry and Sara Kincaid won the Youth Award for her Horticulture entry.

Proceeds of the events go toward many community projects ranging from Arbor Day and scholarships to wildlife rehabilitation. Friendswood Heritage Gardeners welcome anyone interested in gardening to the meetings held the first Thursday of the month at 10 a.m., September through May, at the Marie Workman Garden Center, 112 W. Spreading Oaks, in Friendswood.

City of FriendswoodCity Manager’s Office910 S. Friendswood DriveFriendswood, Texas 77546

Presorted Standard

U.S. Postage Paid

Permit No. 122

Friendswood, TX

Community CalendarCommunity CalendarJoin Us!Senior’s Watermelon BashWednesday, July 25, 2007Centennial ParkThe Senior Program is sponsoring a Watermelon Bash

from 1-2 p.m., at Centennial Park on FM 518. For more information, contact Program Coordinator Genie Balderaz, at 281-482-8441.

National Night OutTuesday, August 7, 2007Thousands of neighbors across the United States will

take part in the 24th Annual National Night Out (NNO). Friendswood Police are accepting registrations for block parties for the event. Crime Prevention Officer Kevin Crouch is the NNO event coordinator. All requests for a police officer to attend your event should be sent to him at 281-996-3316 or by e-mail at KCrouch@ci.friendswood.tx.us. Officers will be assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis, so register early. When registering, please include the location and time of the event, estimated number of adults and children, and contact information.

Senior’s Ice Cream SocialThursday, August 9, 2007Friendswood Activity BuildingThe Senior Citizens’ Program is having an old

fashioned Ice Cream Social from 1-2 p.m., at the Activity Building, at 416 Morningside Drive. Call 281-482-8441 for more information.

Senior’s “Autumn Dance”Friday, September 28, 2007Friendswood Activity Building7-10 p.m.The Friendswood Senior Citizens’ Program is hosting

the first annual Autumn Dance. A night of good food, great friends and fine dancing! Admission is $7 per person. Light refreshments will be served. The KRBB band will be playing. Come by yourself or bring some friends! No dance partners are required. RSVP by calling Genie Balderaz at 281-482-8441.