Fort Bend Independent 010616

VOL 9 No. 1

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

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

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

Spaghetti dinner set for Jan. 26

The 2015 Holiday Light Winners have been selected! They are Nicholas & Ashley Olheiser at 3123 Millbrook, Paul & Beverly Combs at 3119 Stoney Brook Ln, and Paul & Jody Valentine at 3203 Robinson Rd. The winners received a $50 Lowe’s gift card. In addition, Quail Valley Garden Club would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays! We hope you’ll be able to spend some time with your family and enjoy the many lights and decorations in Quail Valley. Come see how your friends and neighbors express joy in our neighborhood. For more photos, please visit www.QuailValleyGardenClub.org

GOP chair Mike Gibson seeks re-election Mike Gibson, a 34 year resident of Sugar Land, announces his candidacy for re-election as Chairman of the Fort Bend County Republican Party.

Mike has been active in the County Party for 20 plus years, having served in many Republican positions including the past 4 years as Chairman.

He has worked tirelessly for local, state, and national Republican candidates, walking the county from Katy to Needville, Simonton to Arcola, and all areas in between.

Mike works in the Oil and Gas industry, focusing on the exploration and development of natural gas and crude oil in Africa, South Texas and the Gulf of Mexico.

He is President of MTG Intl., Inc., a consultancy specializing in drilling and completions technical and commercial support.

Mike has also been active in his community, serving as chairman of the Parks and Rec-

Gibson reation Board for 7 years, on the FBISD Safe and Drug Free Schools Advisory Board for 8 years, as Coach and General Manager of Sugar Land Soccer Club for 8 years, and was the founding board member and chairman of the Perry Abernathy Recreational Ministry Center in Sugar Land.

Mike is a graduate of Texas A&M University and is a member of Sugar Land First United

Methodist Church.

“We have achieved many “firsts” over the past four years.

Our first year round headquarters, the first recognition of our efforts by receiving the Reed Award for Best GOTV plan and implementation in the nation and the first time we have won the early and election day vote for Governor and Straight Party,” stated Mike Gibson.

“I am excited to be a part of the leadership of the Republican Party in the county helping to grow the party and reach out to all conservatives. We have worked hard to make sure we elect all our Republican candidates, increasing our margin of victory each of the last two elections. We must all work together to elect a Republican President and keep control of both the House and Senate.”

For more information on Mike Gibson’s campaign for Republican County Chairman contact Mike at mdgaggie@yahoo.com or call 832-876-6013.

Elkins Knights Baseball Hall of Fame Weekend The 12th Annual Elkins Baseball Hall of Fame Banquet will be held Jan. 22, 2016, 6:30 p.m. at the Sugar Creek Country Club.

The Elkins Knights Baseball Program will be inducting three new members into their Hall of Fame. Dan Tuskowski (1998), Duke Dykeman (2007), and Kevin Max (1997) are this year’s honorees.

Event will include a buffet style dinner, silent auction, and live auction. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students and must be purchased in advance at www.KnightsBaseballClub. com Ticket sales end at 5 p.m. on Jan. 21.

The Inaugural Elkins Baseball Alumni Game & Field Dedication Ceremony for Rick

Carpenter Field will be held Jan. 23, 2016, 1 p.m. at the Carpenter Field on the campus of Elkins High School (7007 Knights Court, Missouri City TX 77459) With the approval to formally name the baseball field at Elkins High School “Rick Carpenter Field” by the FBISD Board of Trustees last May, the formal field dedication ceremony will take place prior to the Alumni Game on January 23.

Numerous Elkins alums will be returning to their home field for this event and to participate in the game.

The Elkins Baseball Program welcomes the Missouri City & Sugar Land community to attend. There will be no admittance charge for this event.

“Having our field named after

Coach Carpenter is an obviously well-deserved honor. Coach Carpenter not only started the program and led it to national recognition; he more importantly impacted the lives of countless young men. The impact he had on the kids he coached is still reverberating in Fort Bend today,” said Tyler Porter, Elkins High School’s head baseball coach.

The Elkins Knights have won 12 District Championships, 6 Region III Championships, 3 Texas 5A Championships and were the 2002 National Champions as determined by USA Today and Baseball America.

The Knights have an all-time record of 515-213-10 in 22 varsity seasons and have qualified for the playoffs 18 times.

The Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s 29th Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held Friday, February 26, 2016, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fluor Corporation Cafeteria, 1 Fluor Daniel Drive, Sugar Land, TX. Local law enforcement agencies and firefighters compete in a Spaghetti Sauce Cook-off.

Their eccentric costumes are always a hit.

A children’s area with a cake walk, face painting, games and prizes is just part of the fun filled event. A live and silent auction, raffle and live entertainment complete this enjoyable evening.

This fundraiser provides over $100,000 annually to local non-profits including Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Texana Center for Autistic Children, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, Fort Bend Council on Substance Abuse, Crime Stoppers, YMCA, DePelchin Children’s Center, ESCAPE Family Resource Center, Literacy Council of Fort Bend and supports Exchange

Peyton Wallace is looking forward to fun in the kid’s area at The Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s 29th Annual Spaghetti Dinner.

—Photo by Larry Pullen ture or a Vacation Trip worth community service projects.

Dinner tickets are $25 for $2,500 can be purchased for adults, $5 for children 7-12 $100 which include 2 adult and children 6 and under and 2 child spaghetti dinners.

For more information visit eat free! Raffle tickets for a chance to win a $5,000 gift http://www.ecsl.org/spaghetticertificate from Gallery Furni- dinner.php.

Bill Michie files for GOP county chair William “Bill” Michie, 14year resident of Fort Bend County, has announced his candidacy for Fort Bend County Republican Party County Chairman. As a Precinct Chair for more than three years, Michie has been in a position to observe the operations of the party through several campaign cycles.

“Many of the Precinct Chairs who make up the Executive Committee have become increasingly dissatisfied and disillusioned with the current party leadership,” Michie said.

“It is no secret in political circles that our party is in crisis because of leadership failures -in the areas of financial accountability, resource management at all levels, especially the underutilization of volunteers, and refusal to follow all the by-laws and procedures of the party.”

Michie Michie added that Fort Bend County political activists have been looking for a potential candidate for several months in the interest of replacing the current county chairman.

Valerie Bryan, the campaign chairwoman who has served

the party for many years as a volunteer in various roles, said, “Bill has a unique set of qualifications that many of us believe will fit the party’s needs at this particular time in history.

“First of all, he is not entrenched in the old ways of politics; he brings a fresh perspective, which voters seem to want.

“Second, he has a strong track record in business – he understands the value of teamwork, personal accountability, trust, and resource development.

“Third, he respects other people and the skills and abilities they bring to a major operation.

All of these qualities, and more, are characteristics of leadership that many of us have been missing in recent years.”

Debra Ross, fellow precinct SEE GOP, Page 3

Stafford debates “open carry” law

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Stafford took up a timely but unusual first item on the agenda at their last council meeting of the year.

The topic was about adopting a resolution to ban handguns from city council chamber during meetings open to the public.

The topic was timely because the open carry law was to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2016.

Since 130 people were murdered at multiple venues in Paris, France, Mayor Leonard Scarcella has spoken several times about how it is his and council members’ first and foremost duty to keep Stafford citizens safe.

The agenda item called for a resolution to ban handguns from city hall. It would allow two signs to be placed outside of

city hall telling all not to bring a handgun in during open meetings of city council, the Stafford Economic & Development Commission or Planning and Zoning. Before any vote was cast much discussion ensued.

The first speaker was Stafford Police Chief Richard Ramirez, whom Scarcella asked to give his perspective on open carrying of a handgun. Ramirez said he has not “run into any issues with concealed handguns over the years. Most people who are licensed comply with the law.

We have issues with those who aren’t licensed.”

Scarcella then said, “You take no position on this?” Ramirez replied, “It’s more about how council feels about it.”

The mayor then said he hasn’t owned a gun in 46 years and still

sees no reason to own one. “I think we are better prepared to protect the public if we do this (approve the resolution). It’s all about the safety of the public. I feel it’s important we take this action. It’s most appropriate.”

Ramirez noted there’s no difference in open carry now and otherwise. Scarcella asked, “Is that a strong reason to keep people with guns out of the chamber?”

The next to speak was Council Member Virginia Rosas, who believes, thanks to the Second Amendment, that all Americans have the right to openly carry a gun.” Scarcella replied, “We’re not talking about taking away anyone’s rights. We’re only talking about posting a notice.”

See GUN, Page 3

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2016

Unique pain-control procedure for breast cancer surgery

NEWS Your Goals are our Blueprint Fee-Only financial advice, based on your financial needs and goals when you succeed, we succeed.

Karl Nazareth, M.D., left, Brenda Murray, and Michelle Shen, M.D. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital recently performed Fort Bend’s first PECS II block, a procedure to minimize the pain of breast cancer surgery.

PECS II is a relatively new pre-surgery approach to pain management. Using ultrasound technology, the anesthesiologist identifies the exact location of two major pectoral nerves and “blocks” them from pain with injections of a local anesthetic and a steroid.

The procedure requires the anesthesiologist to place the medications at the precise depth between the layers of thoracic wall muscles to ensure the block is successful.

Working together, the two medications numb the surgical area for 24 to 36 hours, reducing the patient’s discomfort during the most difficult part of recovery.

The procedure was performed on Brenda Murray of Missouri City by anesthesiologist Karl Nazareth, M.D., prior to a partial mastectomy and lymph node dissection/biopsy performed by Michelle Shen, M.D., and reconstructive work by Melissa Crosby, M.D. Murray was pain-free long after the surgery thanks to the new technique.

“I read that some patients have a lot of pain after their

mastectomy surgery, especially when lymph nodes are involved,” says Murray.

“But I didn’t have any pain at all, and I was back to my old self in no time. I even went to the grocery store three days after my surgery!”

Breast cancer surgery can be extremely painful, requiring a recovery period of days or even weeks when patients must rely on powerful opioids for pain management.

With the PECS II pain procedure, however, patients typically require minimal pain medication and are much more comfortable in the days immediately following their procedure. Murray, however, did not take any pain medication following her surgery.

“Reducing or eliminating the use of narcotic or opioid pain medications is important because they often have side effects,” says Nazareth.

“Some of those side effects can be quite serious, such as respiratory depression. Others – such as extreme drowsiness or constipation – can inhibit the healing process or add to the patient’s discomfort.

With PECS II blocks, many patients need smaller doses of pain medication, if any at all, and they may get up and move about with less discomfort much sooner.”

Nazareth said the use of

PECS II may reduce the need for an overnight hospital stay following some forms of breast cancer surgery.

“One of the main reasons patients stay overnight postoperatively is to ensure that we can control their pain,” he said. “The goal of the PECS II block, is to keep patients comfortable enough to return home.”

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 for a physician referral. Visit our Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland for the latest news, events and information.

Rotary International president to visit Katy

Ravindran The Rotary Club of Katy will host the President of Rotary International, on Monday January 11, 2016 at 3-4 p.m.at the Freedom Park Memorial Tower.

The President of Rotary International, K. R. Ravindran, is touring the United States and during his stop in Texas, will visit the Freedom Park Memorial Tower.

President Ravindran, serves as President of Rotary International, founded in 1905, today with over 1.2 million members, in over 35,000 clubs worldwide, in over 200 countries.

Rotary District 5890 Dr. Nick Giannone will host the tour.

Financial Planning and Investment Management since 1996 Building Your Financial Security

wjinterests.com || 281-634-9400

JANUARY 6, 2016 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

NEWS Stafford approves a new kind of animal hospital, Holiday Inn

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Stafford’s final council meeting of 2015 was full of agenda items, some of which got finalized, some of which did not.

One item that was approved definitely tweaked council members interest, and another will add money to the city’s coffers.

The first is a different kind of animal hospital and the other is a four-story Holiday Express.

The animal hospital came first with a request for a Specific Use Permit requested by Bill and Christina Bickley.

Bill told council it would be an animal hospital that provides prosthetics and braces to all kinds of animals and especially pets and work animals. He said he has 20 years of experience in orthotics and that he’s been making artificial limbs and braces for humans and wanted to do it for animals.

Bill said his wife, Christina, is a physical therapist who teaches at Texas Women’s University and works at Shriner hospital. She described her responsibility in the business as being the “morale and bookkeeping support for the business.”

Bill said, “We’ve been in this business for three years now and we love it.” He said he works wherever he is needed and has done a lot of work with Texas A&M’s veterinary school and animal hospital.

“They have really supported our growth over the past two years.”

In his own business, Bill does it all but said he hopes to hire a technician soon. For now he builds the limbs and braces, etc., his patients need.

“More and more of this is available for animals,” he said.

“There are probably only six

GOP From Page 1 chair and former Fort Bend County Republican Party Secretary, added, “Bill has a quiet strength that comes from his commitment to Christian principles. I know him to be a leader who considers himself a servant, a quality that is missing from current Party leadership. You can always count on Bill to follow through on his promises.”

Former Republican Party Vice-Chairman Mickey Mixon said, “The current Chairman takes the position of ‘It’s my way or the highway.’ Mike refuses to follow the rules, and when questioned, rather than discussing an issue, he just threatens to remove you from the meeting. He lacks the management skills needed to lead the Fort Bend County Republican Party. The EC has tried to work with the current Chairman, but this has proved impossible throughout his term.

The only solution most of us see is to replace the Chairman with one who has a better grasp of leadership.”

Michie has resided in Fort Bend County for 14 years with his wife, Cindy, and their two children. He is a lifetime Republican, having voted in virtually every election. He was a delegate to the 2014 Republican Party of Texas State Convention. He has also served as an election judge.

He retired from Dow Chemical, where he led numerous multidisciplinary teams in research and development as well as commercialization of new products. Michie holds Bachelor’s and Master of Science degrees from Drexel University and an MBA from Rutgers University.

“As County Chairman of Fort Bend County Republican Party, I will lead the Executive Committee in following

Holidays Inns throughout the U.S. that provide 231,000 hotel rooms.

“It’s a proven hotel chain and does well. It is conscientious or seven people in the entire Chris Riggs, who runs Staf- about families and contempocountry who do this. I still ford’s zoning department, said rary in design. There will be 93 work for the human side as all parking will be in front of rooms and 98 parking spaces, well. It would be nice to do this the building and there will be state of the art audio/visual and full-time at some point.” one handicap parking space. a room. We think it’s a great Council members were Councilman A.J. Honore brand and a great design.” clearly intrigued by this un- asked if the Bickleys planned Mayor Leonard Scarcella usual business. on a concrete or asphalt drive- asked Stevens why Sugar Creek After viewing a video Bick- way and Bill said, “probably Hospitality chose Stafford. ley showed about animals asphalt.”

Stevens said, “Business here he had helped return to their Honore also asked if there is fantastic. It has great potenactive lifestyle, Councilman would be any issues involving Cecil Willis asked if the couple waste and the applicant said no. owns the business and land or A public hearing followed George Memorial Library will what. council’s questions and two host an exhibit of spectacular Bill said they do own Global people spoke in favor of grantbird photography from January Ortho Devices but are leasing ing a specific use permit for the 31 through March 18, in the Bothe building and do not own the facility. hachevsky Gallery of the library, land it is on at 3015 S. Main in When that was closed Sorbet located at 1001 Golfview in a primary corridor zone. made a motion to approve the Richmond.

An opening reception Bickley told council they SUP with some conditions. will clean up the building, land- His motion was seconded and for the fine-art bird-photography exhibition, “Angela McCain scape the exterior, add signage unanimously approved.

Photography,” is planned for and have enough parking to The second SUP council Sunday, Jan. 31, from 2 – 4 p.m. satisfy city requirements and approved was requested by The public is invited to attend. customers.

Sugar Creek Hospitality, Inc., The exhibit will feature a se“There won’t be a lot of traf- in order to be allowed to build lection of photographs from Dr. fic. We will make the place a four-story hotel in an area Angela McCain, who speciallook better. Whether I go out where only two-story strucizes in bird photography when to customers or they will come tures are allowed. in to see me. I want it to be The property is 2.756 acres she is not practicing medicine. presentable. We will grow as and use to be a large car lot. A board-certified rheumatolowe go.”

The property is just behind gist in Sugar Land, Dr. McCain discovered a passion for nature He said he plans to be open Rooms To Go on I-59. from 8 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. MonSugar Creek Hospitality photography seven years ago. day through Friday. has plans to build a Holiday She found that the quiet and “When I’m out visiting cli- Express there. It will have 93 beauty she experienced while ents, no one will be there.” rooms, offer a free guest break- exploring nature with her camera Councilman Robert Sorbet fast, and include an indoor pool, was a perfect respite from her asked if any animals will be exercise room, laundry and be busy medical practice.

She found her photographic outside, and Bickley said they right off of I-59.

“North Star” in birds while viswill not except briefly to reThe presenter to council iting family in East Texas for lieve themselves. from Sugar Creek HospitalChristmas.

An ice storm left the Council Member Virginia ity, Donovan Stevens, showed landscape frozen over, but the Rosas asked if there would be pictures of what the interior contrast of a vibrantly colored “any kind of circular something rooms will look like. He said red cardinal against the icy backfor cars” because she felt it there will be only one restauground caught her eye and she would be dangerous to have rant facility and it will be for could not resist the temptation to them back out onto U.S. 90.” breakfast only. try to capture the beautiful tabStevens said the contracBickley said the property is somewhere around a third of tor who will build Holiday leau with her camera. She does an acre, so there’s room for a Express in Stafford has built not consider that early photo, vehicle to maneuver to head more than 150 of them nation- “Cardinal in a Frosted Bush,” wide. He said there are 1,391 particularly good in retrospect, into the busy highway. but it sparked her interest enough

tial. Our room rates will range from $169 to $229. Holiday Express has no bar, no restaurant. It is a totally different brand from Holiday Inns, which have restaurants, etc.”

Councilman Willis noted that Stafford has 21 or 22 motels in the town’s seven square miles and asked, “When does this end. Is this the last one or what, so we understand where the market is going.”

Stevens replied that as Stafford brings in more businesses, there will be a greater need for

more motels. “There is a demand here from your business customers in this vicinity. They want a high caliber property to stay in at night.”

He said the occupancy rate is projected to be 70 percent.

Honore then made the motion to approve the SUP and the vote in favor was unanimous.

According to Stevens, construction on the Holiday Express will start the second quarter of this year.

Spectacular bird photography show

all the party’s organizational rules, provide full and transparent financial accounting at every EC meeting, and develop the party’s resources to help elect strong Conservative candidates to all offices,” Michie said.

“Unfortunately, these processes have been neglected by the current chairman. As a result, many dedicated and passionate volunteers have virtually disappeared from the party’s activities. I am confident that I can bring them back where they are needed the most to make sure our Party wins in 2016. Moreover, party funds have dwindled to the point that the party is virtually broke. These are the major problems that point to the seriousness of the situation in the Fort Bend County GOP. In order to quickly correct problems and re-orient our Party, it is absolutely necessary to elect a new chairman who believes leadership matters.”

Gun From Page 1 “Anyone who has a license to carry, tells me this person is responsible and has been trained to use a gun,” said Councilman Wen Guerra. People have to wait 90 days for a background check and then take training, Guerra noted.

“Anyone can walk in here and do their bidding.”

Councilman Robert Sorbet then asked, “If we enact this, what is the penalty for it? Two to 10 years? If we want to feel better about it we can put a sign outside that says ‘it’s best not to carry a gun in here.’” He joined the Rosas camp in opposing a sign since he believed it would stop no one who had an intent to shoot.

Art Pertile, Stafford’s attorney, said, “The only thing that works is putting a sign on

a standing pole and when you have a council meeting put it at the front door. Then put it back in the closet after the meeting.

Roll it out, roll it back in.”

Councilman Cecil Willis followed saying he agrees with Rosas about not wanting to disarm legal, rational people.

“A sign in San Bernadino, (CA), said it was a gun free zone. All school shootings have been in gun free zones. In the past 7 years, over 9 million arms have been bought.

“This country is petrified. It doesn’t think its government is protecting citizens, so they are going to protect themselves.

Reasonable people will do things to protect themselves. I understand both sides of this.”

Willis went on to say, “If a guy with a shotgun shoots through council doors and no one inside can defend himself with a legal armament, there’s

to continue with photography on a deeper level.

Her desire to perfect her photographic skills has led her to many parts of the world to study with worldrenowned bird photographers such as Brian E. Small and Alan Murphy.

“Alan Murphy is considered by many to be the person who changed bird photography as we know it today,” says McCain. “His specialty was not just shooting photos of birds, but making them the most stunningly beautiful, artfully done photos you have ever seen.”

Her travels have taken her to Alaska, where she captured the grandeur of eagles in their natural element at close range. This past summer, she went to Kamloops, British Columbia in Canada, where she photographed loons swimming with their babies on their backs in crystal-clear spring-fed lakes, with the majesty of the mountains behind them. The previous year, she journeyed to South Africa, where something wrong with that.

Signs haven’t stopped one individual.

“Police can’t be everywhere 24/7 to protect everybody, so it’s up to us to do what we can do to protect our families, friends, community, humanity.

No sign or tripling the number of law enforcement officers will put a small dent in it. It won’t stop what’s out there.”

Willis continued, “When we had the last school shooting that made notoriety, a reporter asked a congresswoman if she knew what the No. 1 weapon is for harming people in this nation per the FBI crime report. It’s a hammer. It’s the mentality of the person, not the weapon that’s the problem,” Willis concluded.

Scarcella said he thinks there’s more to the issue than keeping someone out of a meeting. “I’d say let’s not al-

McCain she photographed birds and large mammals on the wildlife preserves of Kruger National Park.

While there are still other parts of the world she would like to explore, she finds that many birding opportunities can be found practically in her own back yard.

“I hadn’t really started out wanting to be a bird photographer, but it was something that was always there,” says McCain.

“I feel very lucky to live on the Texas coast – one of the ‘birdiest’ places in the world!”

The exhibit may be viewed during regular library hours.

For more information, call the library system’s Public Information Office at 281-633-4734. low guns on any city property.

At what point do we stop this and allow a wild, wild west?

We need boundaries.”

He said he thinks gun control would make the city’s administration more comfortable and not distracted by the issue that someone has a gun.

The mayor went on to say that someone who wanted the item on the agenda brought it to him.

“I didn’t put it on the agenda.”

The discussion was closed and Scarcella invited anyone in the audience to speak on the subject who wanted to. When no one did, Willis moved to table the item. No discussion is allowed when the motion is to table so the vote followed and Willis’ motion was approved.

The result is no signs regarding the open carrying of handguns will be outside of city hall doors prior to meetings in the chamber.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2016

OPINION

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS

The ugly old wall

By CAROLYN BOWDEN When Quail Valley Subdivision turned 30 years old it became apparent to many residents that “her beauty” was beginning to fade in comparison with the new subdivisions springing up around her.

The “front door” did not encourage visitors to stop by and view the custom built homes and mature landscaping.

At that point in time the corner of Cartwright road and FM 1092 was Quail Valley’s MAIN attraction to all who drove by because a beautiful signature golf hole lay just inside.

However, the “walls” that drew attention to the golf course were in disarray.

One wall was a wooden slatted railing in need of repair and paint. It was removed and replaced with landscaping.

The other was a concrete wall which in places leaned at such an angle that it seemed to be in danger of collapsing during the next high wind.

English ivy was planted on both sides and as it spread and grew thicker it became a wall of beauty for people driving by and also for the golfers playing that hole.

People appealed to Lisa Glenn who had the “ear of the residents” and also had long standing contacts with The City of Missouri City, Quail Valley Proud Neighborhood Association and Quail Valley Fund HOA. Lisa drew up a plan with the assistance of John O’Malley, Legacy Landscaping, whereby all three of these entities could share the cost and labor, including the positive recognition and appreciation by the people who lived in Quail Valley.

The result was a perma-

Bowden nent monument sign, which remains in place today with seasonal colorful landscaping.

Two live oak trees were donated by Quail Valley residents, which by 2015, had

grown to the height of a two story building.

The flag poles between these trees behind the sign catch the attention of all who drive by.

The change of color each season and the commercial Christmas Decorations give visitors a “sense of arrival”, allowing a view of the lovely golf course and the lake beyond.

Lisa Glenn has a charm and professionalism that pulls together groups and individuals that led to a win/win for all.

She was the perfect person to head this major project along with other projects that still remain successful today.

(Next Column: January 20th)

With the close of the year comes a number of different tax and personal finance deadlines of which you should be aware: Required Minimum Distributions for IRAs In the year you turn 70 ½, the IRS requires you to begin taking withdrawals from your IRAs. The penalty for choosing to ignore your required minimum distribution (RMD) is severe; a 50 percent penalty tax on the undistributed amount.

If you turned 70 ½ in 2015, you can choose when you take your distribution.

Either you can take it before December 31 and it will be reported as income for your 2015 taxes, or you can wait until early next year and it will be reported on your 2016 taxes, but be aware: waiting means you must take two distributions in 2016.

If you turned 70 ½ in a previous year, you must take your 2015 distribution by December 31.

Maxing Out Your 401(k) Employees can contribute up to $18,000 ($24,000 if older than age 50) to their 401(k) accounts in 2015. Because

Brandon Arns, left, Jared Jameson, Bill Jameson and Derek Finley your contributions are likely set up as automatic deductions from your paycheck, it’s easy to forget exactly how much you’ve contributed throughout the year.

If maxing out your 401k contributions was a goal you had this year, make sure to log into your account to confirm this has happened before your final pay period for the year.

Healthcare Enrollment Open enrollment for 2016 healthcare coverage lasts through January 31, 2016.

The penalty for not obtaining coverage will be higher in

2016 than it was in 2015: up to $2,085 per household or 2.5 percent of household income, whichever is greater.

There are many other financial deadlines related to the end of the year. If you would like a comprehensive review of your 2015 finances, contact your local fee-only financial planner.

WJ Interests, LLC has provided fee-only financial advice to individuals, families and businesses since 1996. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281-634-9400.

Registration for acting classes at Fort Bend Theatre is in progress

Lisa Glenn enjoys walks on the beach with her dog.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Question of Semantics: What Do “Radical Islam” and “Terrorism” Really Mean?

By Dr. L. John Van Til President Obama and his administration’s spokespersons continue to explain the eruption of bombings and mass shootings as “lone wolf attacks” or “work place violence.”

The cause, they often say, is too many guns in society.

Their response is a further demand for sweeping gun laws.

Many others, however, refer to these events as radical Islamic terrorism. Is this a game of semantics or is there a real difference between the two terms?

As the title implies, there are two terms involved here: “Radical Islam” and “Terrorism.”

Defining each will tell us much about the president’s confusion and the reality that has him befuddled.

Let’s look at radical Islam first. The term “radical Islam” implies that there is a normal Islam but its 1,400-year history has spawned dozens of sectarian splinter groups—that is, “radical” Islamic groups. It takes volumes to account for the history of these developments.

For the last century or so, however, some parts of Islamic culture have been dominated by Western political and economic developments. In these circumstances much of Islam’s war-like missionary zeal has been suppressed, or at least pacified.

Enter Osama Bin Laden.

An ethnic Yemini, Bin Laden was a Saudi Arab, born into a very wealthy family. He studied in the Saudi kings’ univer-

Wrapping up your 2015 finances

sity. Early as a young man he was radicalized by the writings of select religious leaders who believed that Muslims should return to the teachings and practices of Mohammad, Islam’s founder.

One of Bin Laden’s core ideas—influenced by the radical imams’ teaching—was a call for conquering the world and ruling it according to the religious tenants of Mohammad.

Historically, this was, in fact, done peacefully at times through trade and diplomacy.

But more often it was done through war, or jihad, as Mohammad labeled it. “Militant jihad” might be a more accurate term.

Jihad has a number of meanings, as any dictionary will show. Use of the term here, however, follows Bin Laden’s practice and definition.

To him it was a “holy war,” specifically against all those who had entered Islam’s holy lands—the Arabian peninsula and Jerusalem.

Bin Laden declared jihad against the United States in 1996 because the U.S. military had set up shop in Saudi Arabia at the invitation of the Saudi government. At the time, Americans did not pay much attention to Bin Laden’s jihad. He practiced and wrote about jihad as he moved around the Middle East—Afghanistan, Sudan, Pakistan, Iraq, and other places.

At the same time, he created al Qaeda as an organization to manage his warring efforts, gathering many followers

along the way. He developed fighting groups that resembled guerilla warfare units.

Much of this technique he learned from Afghan fighters in their war against the Soviet Union a decade earlier.

The goal and style of al Qaeda fighting was, indeed, radical when compared to neighboring quiescent Muslim nations.

Radical Islam took on a whole new dimension, however, when it also adopted a method of fighting: terrorism.

Terrorism deserves further definition. Indeed, we ask: What is it?

It certainly is not a technique developed and used by Islamic fighters exclusively.

Sometimes people are attacked suddenly, violently, and brutally—either individually or as a group—in a way that creates intense fear, panic, acute anxiety, and an impending sense of doom, disaster, and death. That is terrorism. Its practitioners may strike anywhere at any time.

A victim of domestic violence or a robbery victim may be terrorized.

And yes, it may suddenly appear in a meeting of county employees in San Bernardino, California, initiated by radicalized Islamists.

A new level of terrorism appeared soon after Bin Laden was killed. Prior to his death Bin Laden had appointed a new leader of an al Qaeda chapter in Iraq; he being pious, reserved, scholarly, Iraq-born Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. In a matter of months, al Baghdadi put his stamp on this group and renamed it the

Registration spots for Winter Acting Classes, January 16-March 5, are beginning at Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre at 2815 North Main Street in Stafford, TX Classes teach stage acting techniques, including pantomime, improvisation, vocalizations and characterization, and ends with an exciting performance open to family and friends.

Classes are available as follows: Musical Theatre Camp, 8:30 am - 10:00 am, for ages 5-7; Acting FUNdamentals, 10:00 a.m-11:30 a.m, for ages 8-9 year olds; 11:30 a.m-1:00 pm, for ages 10-12 year olds; and Teen Classes, 1:00 p.m – 2:30 p.m, for ages 13-18.

The cost for each class remains only $200. Registration and payment for all sessions is available online at www.FortBendTheatre.com.

Please note before completing the non-refundable registration that children must be the appropriate age for enrollment at the start date of each class. For more information please check the FBT website or call 281-208-3333.

Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

He soon announced the formation of a caliphate, following Mohammad’s practice. His goal was to conquer the world by jihad quickly, he said, because the apocalypse draws near, necessitating a rapid and violent jihad. Thus, he is busy at work trying to expand his caliphate through the use of “radical Islamic terrorism”— his form of jihad, characterized by extreme violence.

President Obama and many on the far left do not seem to acknowledge the nature and technique of the ISIS movement; that is, a radical Islamic terrorist group using new and extreme measures.

Until America’s leaders stop playing the semantics game, radical Islamic groups like ISIS will continue to use terrorism as a tool to reach their desired outcome: A world caliphate that dances on the ashes of America.

--Dr. L. John Van Til is a fellow for humanities, faith, and culture with The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College. His latest books are Thinking Cal Coolidge and The Soul of Grove City College: A Personal View.

Tickets on Sale for Little Women, The Early Years!

Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre, 2815 N. Main St., Stafford, TX, is proud to debut the new play Little Women, The Early Years, January 15 - February 7, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m, and Sundays at 3:00 p.m.

Adapted by local playwright Tarra McCain, this world premiere remains true to the beloved, Louisa May Alcott story and is sure to delight audiences of all generations.

Under the guidance of their

beloved mother, Marmee, the four young March sisters -- tempestuous Jo, motherly Meg, shy Beth, and spoiled baby Amy -- struggle to keep their family strong while Father’s away in the Civil War. In this beautifully dramatized adaptation of the classic novel, even as poverty, illness, and sibling rivalry cast their shadows, each girl strives to find her true self and become the Little Women their father believes them to be. Tickets for this inspiring story are available online at www.FortBendTheatre.com. Please call 281.208.3333 for group sales.

Missouri City Green Electronics Recycling Event

Missouri City Green, with support from Missouri City Parks and Recreation Department, will host an Electronics Recycling Event on Saturday, Jan. 9 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Public Safety Headquarters parking lot located at 3849 Cartwright Road in Missouri City. Over 100,000 pounds of unwanted and outdated electronics have been properly recycled and kept out of landfills during four recent e-waste events.

This event is free but donations are encouraged to enable Missouri City Green to continue providing this opportunity to the public. A wide range of household electronics will be accepted, including televisions 27” or smaller. View the full list of items accepted by CompuCycle at www.missouricitygreen.org.

Missouri City Green is a non-profit organization and the City’s Gold Star Affiliate of Keep Texas Beautiful. For questions or more information, email info@missouricitygreen.org.

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For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) www.bibleliterature.com

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 12551, Emily Court, Texas 77478.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2016 • Page 5

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE Anita Milne

Knowledgeable! Experienced!

Hardworking!

Competitive!

Action Oriented!

MilneAnita@yahoo.com

281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group Meadows Place•Scottsdale•3/2/2

SOLD

$118,000

$169,000 $169,000 Meadows Place • Dorrance • 5/2/2

SOLD

Stafford • Kirkwood • 3/2.5/2

Richmond • Manor • 4/2.5/2

$196,500 SOLD

$214,500

PUBLIC NOTICE OF TEST OF AUTOMATIC TABULATING EQUIPMENT AVISO PUBLICO DE PROBAR EL EQUIPO TABULAR AUTOMATICAMENTE Notice is hereby given that the automatic tabulating equipment that will be used in the Primary Election to be held on March 1, 2016, will be tested on January 14, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at the Fort Bend County Elections Department, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas to ascertain that it will accurately count the votes cast for all offices and on all measures.

Por lo presente se da aviso que el equipo para tabular automáticamente que se usará en la elección primaria el 1 de Marzo del 2016 se probara el 14 de Enero del 2016 a las 9 a.m. en el Departamento de Elecciones del Condado de Fort Bend, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas para determinar si el equipo contara con exactitud los votos para todos los puestos oficiales y sobre todos los medidas. /s/ John Oldham Fort Bend County Elections Administrator Administrador de Elecciones del Condado de Fort Bend

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 95 ACRES ALONG SCENIC RIVERS DRIVE City Council Public Hearing: 6:00 p.m., January 19, 2016, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, to hear all persons interested in annexation of approximately 95 acres of land located along Scenic Rivers Drive in the City of Sugar Land ETJ. Being described as approximately 95 acres in the William Stafford League, Abstract 89, Fort Bend County, Texas. Being all of 57.5963 acres conveyed to Meritage Homes of Texas, LLC as recorded in Instrument No. 2015001869 in the Official Public Records of Fort Bend County, and being a portion of 3.999 acres Scenic Rivers Drive right-of-way. Also being a portion of 27.7492 acre Sugar Land Compressor Station as recorded in Slide No. 954/A and a portion of the Elevated Tank Site No. 2 as recorded in Slide No. 939/B of the Plat Records of Fort Bend County. And being all of the 9.6811 acre tract conveyed to Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 13 in Volume 2009, Page 1699 and all of the 0.159 acre drainage easement conveyed to Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 13 in Volume 2233, Page 1800 in Fort Bend County Deed Records (F.B.C.D.R.).

Details on proposed annexation may be obtained by contacting the City of Sugar Land Planning Office by email longrangeplanning@sugarlandtx.gov or phone (281) 275-2218. The agenda item for this meeting will be available on the City website at www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas, Minutes, and Videos” City Council no later than Friday, January 15, 2016.

VICINITY MAP:

Sugar Land•Brush Meadow• 3/2/2+Study

$205,000 $205,000

TO: MICHELLE YOUNG NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being February 08, 2016 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building. The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on September 24, 2015. It bears cause number 15- DCV226687 and is styled: Elaine Rannells v. Michelle Young The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: S. SCOTT WEST THE WEST LAW FIRM 1600 HIGHWAY 6 SUITE 450 SUGAR LAND TX 77478 (281) 277-1500 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: ELAINE RANNELLS’ DL AND SS DESIGNATIONS ARE 883 AND 418, RESPECTIVELY. WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, ELAINE RANNELLS PRAYS MICHELLE YOUNG BE CITED AND REQUIRED TO ANSWER AND APPEAR HEREIN, AND THAT UPON A TRIAL OF THE MERITS, JUDGMENT BE ENTERED IN FAVOR OF ELAINE RANNELLS, AND AN AWARD OF ACTUAL DAMAGES, PRE-JUDGMENT AND POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST, AND TAXABLE COSTS. ELAINE RANNELLS FURTHER PRAYS FOR ANY AND ALL FURTHER RELIEF, BOTH GENERAL AND SPECIAL, AT LAW OR IN EQUITY, TO WHICH SHE MAY SHOW HERSELF JUSTLY ENTITLED. If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 22nd day of December, 2015.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas By: Deputy District Clerk ASHLEY ALANIS Telephone: (281) 633-7616

www.ArleneRolsen.com

Sienna Plantation MC•$769,500•4/4.1/3 34TT

$178,000

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2 will receive sealed bids for the Pump Station “F” – Increased Resiliency Project. Sealed bids will be received until 2 p.m., Monday, January 18, 2016 at the office of Mike Stone Associates, 19875 Southwest Freeway, Suite 270, Sugar Land, TX, 77479.

A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 7, 2016, at Pump Station “F”, 1207 Colony Lakes Blvd., Sugar Land, TX, 77479.

Plans and specifications are available at www.civcastusa.com (no charge for plans and specifications).

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. CST).

All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

RFP 16-043 – DRUG TESTING SERVICES AND ONSITE SCREEN PRODUCTS FOR JUVENILE PROBATION Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check. Bonds are not required.

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

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

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

(281) 414-8400

SOLD

Meadows Place•Sturdivant•3/2.5/2

SOLD

For All Your Real Estate Needs Call Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. CDs are available in the Purchasing Agent’s Office. All addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

BID 16-046 – ROTARY CUTTERS Unit pricing required; payment will be by check. Bonds are not required.

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

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

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. CDs are available in the Purchasing Agent’s Office. All addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

BID 16-042 – CONSTRUCTION SERVICES OF PRE-FABRICATED METAL BUILDING FOR DRAINAGE DISTRICT A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, January 14, 2016 at 9:00AM (CST). The pre-bid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Drainage District located at 1022 Blume Road, Rosenberg, TX 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend.

Lump sum pricing required; payment will be by check. Bonds are required.

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

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

Lake Pointe Sugar Land $491,475 3/3.1/2 1326LP

Learn about planting fruit trees The winter months are the ideal time for making plans to add a fruit tree to the landscape. The Fort Bend County Master Gardeners 2016 Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale in January will feature 24 varieties of fruiting trees, including many citrus. Site selection is one of the most important planning considerations when considering adding a fruit tree to the landscape.

Site selection is more than deciding where a tree might look good. Some varieties require winter protection and all fruit trees need a minimum of six to eight hours of sunlight. Selecting a site with good drainage is critical. And

it is important to consider the mature size of the tree so that it has room to grow. Conducting a test of soil fertility is helpful to determine what amendments might be advised.

The public is invited to a free program about fruit trees for Fort Bend County on Thursday, January 14, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Fort Bend Fairgrounds, Building B, 4310 Hwy 36 S, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Participants will learn about proper site selection, planting and care during the first year, and have a preview of the trees that will be available at the sale.

The fruit tree sale is Saturday, January 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (or earlier if sold out) at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, Barn H. Proceeds from the sale support the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners’ educational programs and demonstration gardens. Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who assist Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in providing horticulture education to Fort Bend County residents of all ages.

Information about the sale and growing fruit and citrus can be found at www.fbmg. org or by calling the FBMG Hotline at 281-341-7068.

Preview Program for Master Gardener Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale

The Fort Bend Master Gardeners will present a program on Thursday, January 14, 2016 to preview the trees to be sold at their Annual Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale.

Topics will include how to plant, prune and care for the trees as well as an overview of trees at the sale.

The program will be held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, Building B, located at 4310 Hwy 36 S, Rosenberg, TX 77471.

The doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the program will be from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m..

For more information call 281-341-7068 or visit www. fbmg.org.

Saturday, January 16, LEGAL NOTICE REQUESTS FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS Sealed Qualification Statements will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, William B. Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 AT 1:30 P.M. (CST). All submissions will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the firms made public. Submissions received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov Q16-045–PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES RELATED TO FACILITIES PROJECTS Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all qualification statements received.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. CST).

All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

RFP 16-047 – NEW EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION VIDEO ON EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND DISASTER RESPONSE Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check. Bonds are not required.

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

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

2016: Master Gardener Annual Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale Are you looking for a fruit tree for your garden? Save the date! Join the Fort Bend Master Gardeners at their 2016 Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale on Saturday, January 16, 2016.

The sale will be held at

the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds - Barn H, Rosenberg, 77471.

The sale will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. or until sold out.

For more information call 281-341-7068 or visit www. fbmg.org for a list of trees and directions to the sale.

Education Commissioner Mike Morath to speak at chamber luncheon The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s Education Division will host the newly appointed Texas Commissioner of Education, Mike Morath: Leading Texas Education on Friday, February 12th from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Sugar Land Marriott.

This luncheon will be presented by The Harris Law Firm with underwriter support by AG|CM, Inc., AUTOARCH Architects, and Fluor.

Governor Greg Abbott appointed Mike Morath to be the Commissioner of the Texas Education Agency where he will oversee the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the state’s 1,200 school districts and charter schools.

Morath has served on the Dallas Independent School District Board (DISD) of Trustees since being elected to that position in 2011. Morath has been a change-agent at DISD who led reforms that helped propel Dallas public schools to achieve greater student and operational outcomes, including: •Helping guide DISD to a new teacher evaluation and compensation system, becoming the first major school system in Texas to pay teachers based on performance rather than seniority. Pay for top teachers was raised to $90,000 while total spending remained fixed.

•Championing DISD’s public school choice initiative to transform underutilized and low performing schools into open enrollment schools with a specialized focus. Those schools have seen enrollment spikes from high parent demand and gains in student achievement.

•Pushing reforms of the district’s early childhood program that have already generated

Morath a 13% gain in kindergarten readiness.

•Improving career readiness by facilitating coordination between DISD and the Dallas Regional Chamber to massively expand the career and tech options in the district, resulting in a substantial spike in the number of industry certifications issued by DISD. •Helping DISD achieve two bond rating upgrades, a $250 million increase in fund balance, and major improvements in district auditing.

This event is a program of the Fort Bend Chamber’s Education Division whose mission is to provide a critical link between the academic and business sectors in the county by engaging community leaders to build awareness of the positive impact of education.

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is the largest single county chamber in the Houston region.

The United States Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT •JANUARY 6, 2016

Community news

AUTOMOBILE: Toyota Tacoma

Missouri City partners with WCA for 7-Year municipal solid waste contract

Missouri City’s 5-year-old Municipal Solid Waste Program will enter into a new contract phase with WCA Waste Corp. starting Jan. 1, 2016; service to residents and businesses becomes effective Jan. 4.

The seven-year agreement with WCA was authorized

by City Council on July 20, 2015 and is for residential (Ordinance No. O-15-46), commercial (Ordinance No. O-15-47) and municipal solid waste and recyclable collection materials. The deal also provides for Missouri City to collect a franchise fee of 5 percent of gross receipts from WCA. Residential contract customers will pay a $12.50 household base rate and will receive the following services: Solid Waste: Provided twice per week Per City ordinance service will be provided between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Curbside Recycling: Provided every-other-week Recyclable materials do not include glass or pizza boxes.

Both items may be disposed of in the blue solid waste container.

Bulk Waste: Provided everyother-week Yard Waste: Provided weekly Curbside holiday tree pickup during the month of January Trees will be picked up on Bulk collection days Service provided with environment-friendly CNG (compressed natural gas) trucks Additionally, as the WCA solid waste service includes curbside recycling, the City’s recycling drop-off center will permanently close on Feb. 29, 2016.

For yard waste to be collected, it should be stored in heavy-duty lawn and leaf refuse bags that are biodegradable, compostable and sturdy enough not to break when lifted; in a regular trash container or in the blue solid waste container. Yard waste should not be placed at the curb in regular solid waste bags; if that occurs, it will be removed as trash. Brush waste should be securely tied together, not exceeding four feet in length or 40 pounds in weight.

In order to be serviced by the front-loading automatic WCA trucks, solid waste and recycling bins must be placed at the curb at least 5 feet apart

from one other; the handles should face the homeowner’s residence.

Residents who participate in the Municipal Solid Waste Program will receive regular trash pickup on the following holidays: Monday, Jan. 18: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Friday, March 25: Good Friday Monday, May 30: Memorial Day Monday, July 4: Independence Day Monday, Sept. 5: Labor Day To ensure service, citizens are encouraged to set garbage and recyclable materials out by 7 a.m. In August, WCA will set the dates of service for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Assisted or valet service is available for disabled, elderly and infirmed residents; a doctor’s signature and contact phone number is required to process each request. To sign up for the service, click this City website link to access the request form, or contact WCA’s dedicated Missouri City Customer Service center at 281.403.5800.

To assure excellent service to municipal solid waste customers, WCA conducted “ghost routes” in December.

During the test runs, personnel identified some areas that present access challenges for WCA’s Automated Front Load trucks. As a result, the company will need to provide Rear End Load service on Wednesday/Saturday, (excluding recycling), to the following communities: Camden Park (Adams Street) Bermuda Dunes Townhomes (Bermuda Dunes Street) Manors at Riverstone (Riverstone Boulevard) Meadowcreek Townhomes (North La Quinta Drive) Quail Valley Townhomes (La Quinta Drive and Cartwright Road) Quail Valley Townhouses (Palm Desert Lane and Oak Hill Lane) Quail Valley Patio Homes (La Quinta Drive and Quail Valley Drive—East side of La Quinta Drive) Pebble Beach (West Pebble Beach Drive and Cartwright Road) Quail Valley Cottages (La Quinta Drive and Quail Valley Drive—West side of La Quinta Drive)

ABWA Fort Bend Monthly Meeting February7,2016 5, 2015 January Quail Valley Country Club 2880 La Quinta Dr, Missouri City, TX Networking begins at 5:00 pm Start Your New Year With Networking!

Speaker: Speaker: Debbie Elder Owner of Shady OakMeade Primary School in Christina Richmond and Owner of Zoom Creative Slutions “Set them up for success.”

For Reservations RSVP: Marilyn@nelson-marketing.com

Municipal solid waste service for these same communities begins on Wednesday, Jan. 6.

Billing processes for all municipal customers will remain similar to those that were in place during the City’s previous contract with Republic Services. Republic’s five-year agreement started on Nov. 1, 2010 and expires on Dec. 31, 2015.

The city-wide municipal solid waste program was approved by 54.57 percent of voters in the May, 2010 General Election and, at their Aug. 16, 2010 Regular Meeting, City Council Members approved the details of a proposed service contract with the first provider, Republic Services.

“The consolidation of the City’s waste collection contract remains a strategic priority to assure that residents have the most efficient and economical service available,” said Assistant City Manager Bill Atkinson, who oversees the initiative.

“With direction from City Council and feedback from citizens, the focus will remain on maintaining a quality municipal program that incorporates pickups, recycling, customer service and environmental projects.”

Atkinson went on to explain that the WCA residential solid waste collection contract “will cover about 93 percent of City homes, and that any neighborhoods developed after 2007 are required to be on the City’s contract.”

Residential customers who receive services from a provider with rates below $12.50 have the option of continuing service with that company.

Since July, Missouri City’s Communications Department has partnered with WCA to educate citizens about the solid waste service transition by sharing information with HOA Board Members and Property Managers who published details in community newsletters and on community websites, distributing fliers at City events, securing coverage in local media outlets, providing reports at City Council, Council District and community meetings, posting updates on the City’s social media sites (Facebook—fb/ MissouriCityTX, Twitter and Instagram—@MissouriCityTX) and producing an educational video that may be viewed on the homepage of the City website, www. missouricitytx.gov, and on Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).

More details about the approved contract, including a comprehensive FAQ, are available on the City website; they may be viewed by clicking on the “Solid Waste” image in the “QUICKLINKS” section.

Elkins High School “Knights” Varsity Football team players and coaches helped make the holidays bright for approximately 30 Lantern Lane Elementary School students who benefitted from the team’s annual toy drive.

In an effort to give back to the community which has supported the team throughout the years, the Elkins football players host an annual toy drive on campus to collect toys for young girls and boys at Lantern Lane Elementary School, one of their feeder pattern schools.

Elkins works with the elementary school counselor to identify ideal candidates who would most benefit from the donations.

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2016 Toyota Tacoma is new inside and out. America’s best selling mid-size pickup for 10 years has a new powertrain and enhanced suspension tuning, It also has a legacy of off-road victories and sales -- more than seven million compact and mid-size Toyota trucks have sold since 1964.

For 2016 the new Tacoma has more high strength steel for enhanced rigidity and overall strength.

And the suspension was fine tuned to deliver a smoother ride. It is powered by either a 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder with VVT-i that makes 159 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm or a V6.

Estimated EPA city/highway miles per gallon for the 4x2 with an automatic transmission are 19/23. Estimated fuel efficiency for the 4x4 with a manual transmission is 19/21 and 19/22 for the automatic.

The V6 has a 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle with VVT-iW. It produces 278 horsepower for an increase of 42 HP over the previous V6, and 265 lb.-ft. of torque at 4600 rpm. Estimated city/highway mpg for the 4x2 automatic is 19/24 and for the 4x4 manual is 17/21 and 18/23 for the automatic.

Both engines are paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift. The V6 can also be mated to a new six-speed manual transmission and the four-cylinder to a five-speed manual.

This is the most powerful and fuel efficient Tacoma ever. When equipped with the V6 tow package, the truck can tow up to 6,800 lbs, an increase of 300 lbs. over the previous V6.

Four new wheel designs range from 16 to 18 inches.

From behind, the new locking tailgate features an integrated spoiler for improved aerodynamics.

It also has an easy lowering feature, which prevents it from slamming down. For the first time, Tacoma is offering an optional factory-installed tri-fold hard tonneau cover.

The interior of Tacomas is sporty. Soft-wrapped trim and metallic accents make a high quality look.

Interior amenities include wireless charging, leather trimmed seats, smart key with push-button start, power tilt/ slide moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, enhanced touchscreen audio and blind-spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert and a quieter ride.

Interior storage is maximized in Access Cab models with fold-up rear seats and under-seat storage. Double Cab models feature 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests and under-seat storage.

The 2016 Tacoma is available in 29 configurations in two cab types available in both 4x2 and 4x4. The five model grades are work-ready SR, iconic SR5, athletic TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and Limited.

Access Cab models ride on a 127.8-inch wheelbase and have a 73.7-inch-long bed.

The Double Cab is offered in two versions: the 127.4-inch wheelbase with a 60.5-inch bed or 141.0-inch wheelbase with the 73.7-inch bed.

Both bed styles have a composite inner bed made from a sheet-molded composite deck and that are 10-percent lighter than steel.

The bed deck features twotier loading and an integrated deck-rail utility system with four standard adjustable tiedown cleats.

The deck rail system is compatible with Toyota accessories that include a forkmount bike rack, a cargo divider and mini tie-downs with hooks. Inside, all Tacomas have a four-way driver’s seat

with lumbar support and fourway adjustable front passenger seats.

All Tacoma 4x4 models are equipped with 4WDemand part-time 4WD with an electronically controlled transfer case and automatic limited slip differential.

Tacoma TRD Sport models are equipped with sport-tuned shocks. The TRD Off-Road models have Bilstein shocks.

A multi-terrain select system (automatic transmission only) lets drivers choose between different types of terrain to regulate wheel spin. Other off-road technology includes locking rear differential, hill start assist control, clutch start cancel, active traction control, and crawl control.

All Tacoma have coilspring double wishbone front suspension and stabilizer bar and leaf spring rear suspension with staggered outboardmounted gas shocks.

Brakes are power-assisted ventilated front disc and rear drum brakes with a tandem booster.

All Tacoma SR grades come standard with the base Entune Audio system, which bundles features. Numerous safety features also standard are vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and brake override.

The retail price for the Tacoma 4x2 ranges from $23,300 for the SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission to $34,745 for the Double Cab Limited 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2016 Tacoma 4x4 starts at $24,825 for the SR 4-cylinder engine with a fivespeed manual transmission and tops out at $37,820 for the V6 Limited with the sixspeed automatic.

Elkins High School football team’s annual toy drive benefits elementary school children

Coach Dennis Brantley welcomes students to the toy give-a-way event.

The team then visits the campus, with toys in hand, to surprise the recipients.

This year, the team donated more than 400 games and toys for the students to en-

joy for themselves and share with other children in their family.

“It feels really good to give back to children in our community,” said Right Tackle

Kote Baker.

He reminded students that they are our future and encouraged them to continue to work hard and remain model students.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2016 • Page 7

COMMUNITY

Missouri City student named to National Youth Advisory Board

Sophia George Sophia George of Missouri City, TX has been named to the 2015-2016 Souper Bowl of Caring National Youth Advisory Board. George is one of 13 students from eight states chosen to serve as a member of this prestigious board.

In July and November, George attended the organization’s national youth training conferences in Houston.

George will spend January being an advocate for the organization and jumpstarting movements in the greater Houston community.

Souper Bowl of Caring’s National Youth Advisory Board is an exclusive program comprised of 13 student leaders from around the country selected through a competitive national application process.

The National Youth Ad-

visory Board gives young volunteers an opportunity to take a larger leadership role in the organization, which encourages youth to collect donations through schools, places of worship and businesses and donate 100 percent of their collection to a local charity of their choice.

“Souper Bowl of Caring can be personalized to take on whatever meaning you want it to in your life,” George said.

“For me, it has been the empowering conferences with my fellow national youth board members that have opened my eyes to the immense need around me and my role to alleviate that need.”

In addition to coordinating Souper Bowl of Caring drives, members are expected to serve as a youth

spokesperson for the organization with local and national media, connect with other youth leaders interested in making a difference, grow the organization’s effort in their community and offer feedback and guidance to the Souper Bowl of Caring staff.

George is the daughter of Reji and Leena George of Missouri City. She attends Ridge Point High School and became involved with Souper Bowl of Caring through her experience serving on the organization’s Houston Local Youth Advisory Board.

She learned of this opportunity through volunteering with the Houston Food Bank.

Other states represented on the Board include Arizona, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina and South Carolina.

Souper Bowl of Caring started with one church youth group in South Carolina in 1990 when minister Brad Smith prayed, “Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those without even a bowl of soup to eat.”

From that prayer, Souper Bowl of Caring was born and more than $110 million has been raised nationwide.

In 2015, 6,600 organizations collected over $8 million nationwide and every penny went to local organizations that help people in need.

To register your school, place of worship, business or group, visit www.souperbowl.org.

In the rear, Anthony Maroulis, left, Yolanda Ford and Antwonette Smith, CEO of Little People With Big Challenges Foundation, with the first family to receive the Christmas gift, April Comeaus and her family. Jennifer Simpson, director of public relations for the foundation is in the front.

Missouri City Councilmember Yolanda Ford hosts shopping event In partnership with Little People With Big Challenges, Missouri City’s District A Councilwoman Yolanda Ford provided 172 kids from Missouri City and the surrounding communities with $100/ each to shop in the Missouri Walmart on Dec. 23.

Ford is partnered with former Houston Texans player Antonio Smith and his Little People With Big Challenges Foundation to host a shopping event for students from SHAPE Community Center’s after school programs and the Missouri City community.

Denver Broncos Defensive End Antonio Smith has al-

ways been a key supporter and sponsor of Little People With Big Challenges Foundation.

This put over $17,000 into one store in Missouri City in an hour. Several of those families were also provided with an additional food basket.

Missouri City Council Member Chris Preston, Council Member Anthony Maroulis and District 27 State Representative Ron Reynolds were among those present.

Little People With Big Challenges Foundation hosted its 3rd Annual Christmas For Families Holiday Adoption Program in Missouri City on Dec. 23.

In addition to the foundation’s childhood obesity prevention programs, each year, they provide Christmas gifts and holiday cheer to children from under-served families.

For the past two years they have selected participants through Houston Children’s Charity’s Holiday Adopt- AFamily Program and along with other children in select communities.

With the help of community partners, board members and sponsors, LPWBC was able to provide greater offerings this 2015 holiday season.

A SLIMMER YOU IS IN SIGHT. START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT. Enjoy a healthy cooking demonstration and learn about your weight loss options at one of our upcoming events.

JOIN US FOR A FREE WEIGHT LOSS EVENT

TUESDAY, JAN. 19, 2016 | 6–8 P.M. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 16655 Southwest Frwy., Main Pavilion Conference Center, Sugar Land, TX 77479 At the weight loss event you will: • Enjoy a cooking demonstration from a Houston Methodist chef • Taste a free sample of weight loss shakes

• Receive a free BMI calculator • Learn about the different programs offered at the Houston Methodist Weight Management Center

Attendance is free; however, registration is required.

To register or to see a full listing of events across Houston in January, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 832.667.LOSE (5673).

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 6, 2016

NEWS Memorial Hermann Sugar Land presents Central Fort Bend Chamber’s Annual Awards Luncheon

The planning committee for this year’s “Reading Between the Wines benefiting Literacy Council of Fort Bend County (back row l. to r.): Sonal Bhuchar, Mike Dacey, Mary Gayle Brindley, Cynthia Bartholomew, Nicola Johnson, Pat Hebert, Executive Director Kelli Metzenthin and Lawren Eckhardt. Front row (l. to r.): Co-chairs Gena Horak and Helen Bow, Honorary Chair Nancy Olson.

Tickets on sale for “Reading Between The Wines” benefiting Literacy Council Leslie Norman, left,Chief Nursing Officer Memorial Hermann Sugar Land; Regina Morales, President/CEO Central Fort Bend Chamber; Dr. William B. Riley, Chief Medical Officer Memorial Hermann Sugar Land; Vince Finnegan, 2015 Treasurer of the Board, Central Fort Bend Chamber and 2014 Business Person of the Year; Jeff Haley, 2016 Chair-Elect, Central Fort Bend Chamber; Melissa Garcia-Martin, 2015 Chairman of the Board, Central Fort Bend Chamber; Greg Haralson, Chief Executive Officer Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber’s annual awards luncheon will showcase Fort Bend County’s best and highlight the efforts of those who have been dedicated to the Chamber’s Mission throughout 2015.

The luncheon will be held at Safari Texas Ranch on Friday, January 22, 2016 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

Chamber Members are business owners and profession-

als whose commitments to enhancing their communities and growing businesses have set them apart from the crowd.

A select group of members have achieved an even higher level of success through efforts that go above-and-beyond.

The Chamber will proudly recognize those “above-andbeyond” efforts at this event.

The categories to be honored for 2015 include: Business Person of the Year, Business Partner of the Year, Board Mem-

ber of the Year, Achievement in Economic Development, Raymond Saage Volunteer of the Year Award, Committee Member of the Year and Ambassador of the Year.

To sponsor this event or purchase individual tickets, contact Leigh Ann Dawson at ldawson@cfbca.org or 281-342-5464.

For more information about the Chamber or its programs, call 281-342-5464 or visit www.cfbca.org.

One of the most anticipated Fort Bend fundraisers of the year, the 4th Annual “Reading Between the Wines” benefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, returns to Richmond’s Safari Texas Ranch on Friday, April 1 at 6:30 p.m.

Presented by The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, this year’s “Reading Between the Wines” will feature New York Times best-selling memoirist and poet Mary Karr, Ph.D., author of the criticallyacclaimed, best-selling memoirs The Liars’ Club, Cherry, and Lit. A television series based on The Liars’ Club and Lit is in

Enroll Now.

development with Showtime starring Mary Louise Parker as Karr and produced by Sarah Timberman.

While at “Reading Between the Wines,” literary and wine enthusiasts will enjoy presentations from acclaimed authors, a generous selection of outstanding wines and expertly prepared cuisine from local restaurants and caterers.

Individual tickets for “Reading Between the Wines” are $125 and can be purchased at www.ftbendliteracy.org.

Sponsorship packages including reserved seating, select bottles of wine, meet and greet and photo opportunity with Mary Karr and more also

can be purchased at the website and are available starting at $500.

Proceeds from “Reading Between the Wines,” cochaired by Helen Bow and Gena Horak, will benefit the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County.

For 28 years, the organization has strived to fill gaps in literacy services for those in need, have the capability to learn and the desire to move forward in life.

For more information, contact Nicola Johnson at 281240-8181 or at njohnson@ ftbendliteracy.org.

Saturday Registration • January 9 &16 Missouri City Campus Stafford Campus West Loop Campus 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

hccs.edu/saturdays