Fort Bend Independent010715

VOL 8 No. 1

email: editor@ĩindependent.com

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Phone: 281-980-6745

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2015

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

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

Sugar Land launches its own ambulance service

The Sugar Land Fire Department began providing ambulance transport service Jan. 1.

The addition of five state-ofthe-art ambulances, increased paramedic certifications and expanded dispatch operations is expected to decrease response times, improve patient care reporting to hospitals and provide greater flexibility in service delivery.

Fort Bend EMS has provided ambulance service since the late 1970s. The county based only two ambulances in Sugar Land; both were available for response outside of Sugar Land when needed.

Sugar Land will assign ambulances to Fire Station 1, 555 Matlage Way; Fire Station 2, 1040 Industrial; and Fire Station 4, 2100 Austin Parkway.

A fourth ambulance will be available to respond throughout the City during peak demand hours, and the fifth will serve as a reserve, replacing units that are taken out of service for maintenance.

Rapid growth in Sugar Land necessitated a change in EMS delivery. City leaders, including Sugar Land’s medical director, identified a need to: •

improve response times

for advanced life support calls; • create a patient care reporting system than can be used by paramedics in the field to ensure local hospitals have access to information prior to the arrival of patients; • build on a network of assets that provide flexibility, speed and efficiency in public safety response; and • build an emergency medical dispatch capacity that will send appropriate personnel and equipment to public safety calls.

“This new service could literally mean the difference between life and death, as seconds often make a significant difference in public safety response,” said Assistant Fire Chief Mario Partida, who led SLFD’s project to launch an ambulance transport system.

“After identifying fire-based EMS as a priority, City Council budgeted start-up costs in 2012 that allowed us to be fully operational on Jan. 1.”

Since 2013, SLFD hired an EMS battalion chief and 13 paramedic/firefighters, trained 10 existing firefighters as paramedics, expanded dispatch operations, purchased equipment

and established patient-care protocols with area hospitals.

Sugar Land’s ambulances are equipped with special safety and performance features. A five-point harness system that functions as a specialized seatbelt secures the paramedics while in transit.

The harness provides the flexibility of allowing the paramedic to face different directions and be in different positions while treating the patient.

Additional equipment includes an enhanced safety attendant seat, liquid spring suspension, reflective chevron striping, a traffic pre-emption system, a hydraulic lift for the primary oxygen bottle, a cardiac monitor-securing device, a station exhaust system adapter and LED lighting.

The ambulances are also equipped with video laryngoscopes, four of which were donated by Nalco Champion.

“Our fire-EMS motto is ‘One Mission, One Team’ because this project has been a collaboration among many City departments,” said Partida. “The motto exemplifies the unified effort behind this strategic project and this significant step toward increased life support delivery standards for Sugar Land residents.”

Missouri City hosts Dad & Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7 From 6 – 9 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the former Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City staff will host its annual Dad & Daughter Dance.

This year’s dance will have a “Southwestern Fiesta” theme with a full nacho/taco bar, a mariachi band, a photo station and much, much more.

A digital photo will be emailed to families following the event.

Tickets go on sale Monday, Jan. 5, at the Recreation and Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr. The dance is $30 per dad/ daughter pair and is $25 per each additional daughter.

Guests are also able to purchase their tickets by calling 281.403.8639 and will receive tickets at will-call on the day of the event.

GET READY FOR SPAGHETTI. The Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s 28th Annual Spaghetti Dinner will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015. Chairperson Kevin Barker, Co-chair Rod White and Silent Auction Chair Jan Poscovsky are busy planning for over 2,000 guests. Photo by Amy Mitchell. Save the date for The Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s 28th Annual Spaghetti Dinner, at the Fluor Corporation Cafeteria, 1 Fluor Daniel Drive, Sugar Land. This fundraiser supports Exchange community service projects and 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 many others. 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. Dinner tickets are $10 in advance ($15 at the door). Children 12 and under eat free! Raffle tickets for a chance to win a $5000 gift certificate from Gallery Furniture or a 7 day stay at a RCI Resort including airfare can be purchased for $100 and include 2 spaghetti dinners. Raffle and dinner tickets can be purchased on line at http://www.ecsl.org/spaghetti-dinner.php.

Missouri City shows strong growth and development

Missouri City continued its momentum of growth and development in 2014, earning recognition again for its fiscal stewardship, safe streets, economic expansion, premier parks, scenic communities and innovative mobility projects.

Combining strategic policies and proactive processes to achieve the principal goal of excellent customer service to citizens and businesses, the City achieved the following milestones: Expanding economic development, including moving forward with the future construction of a new business park that Visitors to last year’s Circus-themed Dad & Daughter Dance will be situated at Beltway 8 enjoy dancing in confetti. Image courtesy of Eason photog- and Fondren Road, welcoming new companies to Lakeview raphy.

Business Park, the Beltway “Last year’s Circus-themed ing great entertainment,” said Crossing Complex, Texas ParkDad & Daughter Dance was a Parks and Recreation Director way and Highway 6, negotiathuge success, and we here at Larry Foos. ing with Houston Community “This year’s Southwestern Missouri City are excited to College to relocate its Sienna once again offer families in Fiesta will offer even more Campus to the Texas Parkway/ the surrounding community a excitement and fun for famiCartwright Road Corridor and chance to bond while enjoy- lies.” starting the process of creating an economic development incentive program; Securing passage of a $40 million bond referendum that will fund drainage projects, public facilities, transportation and the future construction of a fire station; Implementing a small business policy that will assist area businesses and business owners who want to partner with the City and hosting the first small business workshop drawing more than 60 vendors; Rolling out and completing multiple mobility projects such as the revitalization of Fifth Street, extensions of Vicksburg Boulevard and Lexington Boulevard, installation of decorative signal lights, beautifying traffic signal art boxes with unique designs and paintings of Fort Bend Independent School District students, construction of grand gateway signs and repairing sidewalks in neighborhoods citywide; Receiving recognition as the

16th best place to live in America by 24/7 Wall Street, an online news agency, and as the sixth safest City by Movoto, a respected real-estate website; Earning awards for fiscal management, financial transparency and full disclosure from the Government Finance Officers Association (27 years consecutively) and the State of Texas Comptroller’s Office; Continuing to prioritize public safety with the creation of a five-unit motorcycle patrol and increased fire safety programs; Executing a new Strategic Policy that sets governing guidelines for Council and operational policies for staff; Conducting a citizen survey to gauge resident satisfaction with services and programs and seek feedback to improve customer service processes; Operating the award-winning Quail Valley Golf Course, which hosted 55,015 rounds (3 percent more than last year), 8,346 tournament rounds (29 percent more than last year), 174 golf events compared to 159 in 2013, 270 non-golf events compared to 279 in 2013, and which again earned top rankings by Avid Golfer Houston Magazine including No. 1 Best Value under $50 for the El Dorado course; Launching a revamped Municipal Volunteer Program (MVP); citizens have contributed their talents and more than 500 hours of their time to improve operations in the Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks and Communications departments; and Building bonds with citizens through the groundbreaking of a community garden in Buffalo Run Park, planting additional groves of trees along the Edible Arbor Trail, hosting traditional annual events and introducing new ones such as the “Summer Concert in the Park” series, a Santa shuffle fun run in the Snowfest Parade, a Fall Craft Fair, tennis tournaments for players of all ages,

and seeking resident input and feedback at public input workshops and in the first round of district homeowners’ association meetings.

Additionally, the City’s “Show Me” spirit was in full force as it celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Fondren Park, the City’s first subdivision; partnered with citizens for the 31st Annual Snowfest Festival, 28th Annual National Night Out, 6th Annual Stuff the Squad Car & Fire Truck, and 3rd Annual Fire Open House; unveiled a concept design for a future Veterans’ Memorial; completed the second year of Citizens’ University and the Leadership Luncheon series, and set a strong presence on social media with the citywide Facebook page that promotes departmental events and accomplishments.

Further focusing on providing residents with a quality lifestyle, Missouri City Council Members lowered the property tax rate to $0.56 cents per $100 of valuation, staff utilized the latest technology to save time and operating costs with the introduction of the “iReport” mobile application that allows citizens to report code enforcement violations online through the SeeClickFix.com website, and team members facilitated dozens of tournaments, business meetings, and family events at our two premier amenities: the City Centre at Quail Valley and the Recreation & Tennis Center.

“Overall, the Show Me City has had a banner year, in great part because of partnerships with citizens and stakeholders,” said Mayor Allen Owen.

“In 2015, staff will continue to build on the City’s reputation as a safe community with beautiful neighborhoods, to attract viable commercial and retail enterprises, to renovate and maintain infrastructure and to strengthen recreational opportunities.”

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 7, 2015

NEWS David Crowl named vice-president Fort Bend Friends & Neighbors Foundation

of Fort Bend Chamber

David Crowl, Director of Communications at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce has recently been named Vice President. David has over five years of experience with the Fort Bend Chamber.

“David has always served as a mentor to our new staff members and provides tremendous support to the entire team,” says Keri Schmidt, President & CEO, “through David’s hard work, loyalty and dedication, he has earned the title Vice President.”

David is a graduate of the United States Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organizational Management at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, a premier four-year professional development program. He is also a graduate of the Fort Bend Leadership Forum Class of 2011 and 2010 graduate of the Leadership Excellence for Nonprofits.

Prior to joining the Chamber, David was Research Ana-

Crowl lyst & Office Assistant intern for Austin Parks department.

David received his BA in Urban Studies from the University of Texas in 2007.

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.

With 7,077 chambers in the United States, 207 of these are accredited with only 82 receiving a 5-Star designation.

The Fort Bend Chamber serves its membership with the belief that a positive business climate is a key to the quality of life of our community.

The Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled its mission to serve as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. By creating, enhancing, and promoting the thriving economic environment in which we work and live.

Whether it’s through the Education Division, Infrastructure Planning, Government Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, Economic Development, Healthcare, and Member Services we bring value to our business community.

Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s Club hosts Rafael Cruz The Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s Club will host Pastor and conservative activist, Rafael Cruz, who will discuss the importance of people of faith being involved in the political process.

The meeting will be Friday, January 16th, at Sugar Creek Baptist Church LYF Center 13444 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The lunch is at a cost of $8.

Reservations are required

by Wednesday, January 14th. Please specify if you plan to eat or attend only. To RSVP contact President Cindy Bond at info@spiritoffreedomwomen.com or call or text 281-435-3547.

Rafael Cruz is a powerful example of the American Dream. Born in Cuba, Rafael lived and suffered under a cruel, oppressive dictator.

He began fighting Batista’s regime as a teenager and was imprisoned and tortured simply because he wanted to be free.

Rafael arrived in Texas in 1957 with nothing but the clothes on his back and one hundred dollars sewn into his

Fish City Grill’s 1st Tuesday sales on Feb. 3 will benefit FBFN Foundation. Carole Kanusky, left, President; Joe Esparza, Fish City Grill Manager and Marilyn Davis, Vice PresidentScholarships .

Fish City Grill at Sugar Land Town Center’s monthly first Tuesday event for February 2015 will benefit Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Foundation.

For the second year Fish City Grill manager, Jose Esparza, has graciously agreed to donate 15 percent of all sales on February 3, 2015 including food, beverage, bar, take-out and gift certificates.

Come visit Mr. Esparza and the members of the FBFN Foundation anytime during the day of Feb. 3 and bring your family and friends.

FBFN Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and the charitable arm of the Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors women’s social

club.

The Foundation is devoted to promoting charitable and humanitarian projects within Fort Bend County.

Their major philanthropic effort is directed toward the Foundation Scholarship Program. Since 2005, $96,500 in college scholarships has been awarded to local students who have graduated from a Fort Bend County high school and in need of financial assistance

to achieve their higher educational goals.

For more information about the Foundation Scholarship Program and scholarship application, please visit the Foundation website at FBFNFoundation.org or email President@FBFNFountation.org FBFN Foundation P.O. Box 18229 Sugar Land, Texas 77496

Sugar Land Garden Club

Winter Acting Classes filling up

Rafael Cruz, left, with son Ted Cruz. underwear. He got a job as a dishwasher, making 50 cents an hour, and worked his way through the University of Texas, while learning English. He later built a small business in further pursuit of the American Dream. Rafael Cruz became active in conservative politics during the 1980 Presidential Campaign of Ronald Reagan.

He also joined the State Board of the Religious Roundtable, a grassroots Judeo-Christian organization that had an important impact on the future of political dialogue. He is director of Purifying Fire Ministries, ministering in the U.S., Mexico and Central America, and the president of Kingdom Translation Services. His son, Ted Cruz, is newly elected U.S. Senator from Texas.

For upcoming meetings or more information about the club, check SFRW’s website www.spiritoffreedomwomen. com or email Cindy Bond at info@spiritoffreedomwomen. com

The holidays may seem to be winding down, but the fun never stops at Award-Winning Fort Bend Theatre! Fort Bend Theatre’s Winter Acting Classes begin January 10 through March 7th on Saturday mornings at 2815 North Main Street in Stafford. Each class teaches theatre basics to in-depth study and concludes with an exciting and FREE performance open to family and friends.

These fun, 90 minute classes are available for students of all skill levels, ages 5 – 17.

All sessions and ages cost only $200, payable online at the FBT website www.fortbendtheatre.com, under the “Education” tab.

For more information call (281)208-3333. Space is limited so register today,

The Sugar Land Garden Club presents “Garden Design Spring 2015” by Billy Marberry at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 702 Burney Road, Sugar Land. Refreshments 9:30 a.m; program 10 a.m. Bill is an interior, floral and landscape designer, pianist, and artist. Bill has said, “Anyone can dig a hole and plant, yet not everyone is an artist with a shovel.”

Come prepared for fresh ideas and insights on artistic garden and floral designs for 2015. The program is free and open to the public. For more info: www.sugarlandgardenclub.org.

THE FORT BEND CHAMBER INVITES YOU TO...

Elected Officials Reception AND

FORT BEND CHAMBER

5-STAR ACCREDITATION CELEBRATION Remarks by the Honorable Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert at 5:30 pm

Thursday, January 15, 2015|5:00pm - 7:00pm SAFARI TEXAS RANCH | 11627 FM 1464 | RICHMOND, TX

JANUARY 7, 2015 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

NEWS Missouri City City Manager moves to Tayler In 2012, City Manager Edward Broussard brought his visionary leadership to the “Show Me City” and by utilizing strategy and synergy, he charted a successful course that has resulted in steady commercial development, the creation of new citizen outreach initiatives and strong community partnerships.

Broussard’s commitment to excellence and ethics have also earned him the respect of citizens, local leaders, City employees and his peers. And, after three years of managing Missouri City, he has decided to move on and take the helm in the City of Tyler, a thriving municipality of about 107,405 people in northeast Texas that has a robust economy and is known as the “Rose Capital of the United States”.

“I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve the citizens in partnership with City Council and an exemplary team of public servants,” said Broussard, who was formally appointed to his new position on Dec. 22. “My family and I will always cherish our Missouri City memories.”

Broussard, who has childhood roots in the “Show Me City”, was especially connected to the community and spearheaded a number of citizen outreach initiatives, including Citizens’ University. The popular program is entering its third year and gives residents an “inside look” into how their City operates and allows citi-

•

Broussard zens to become more involved at the municipal level.

In his oversight of City departments, Broussard is also responsible for: • helping to improve crime prevention with the rollout of the City’s new Police Motorcycle Patrol Unit; • enhancing public safety with the expansion of emergency preparedness projects; • continuing infrastructure improvements citywide; • overseeing the implementation of new employee training plans and technology improvements; • building more community bridges with his weekly electronic “City Manager’s Update”, which is available on the City website;

Guiding the management of the City’s two first-class amenities— the City Centre at Quail Valley and the Recreation & Tennis Center; • facilitating the new small business policy that will assist Missouri City businesses and business owners who wish to collaborate with the City, launching the Leadership Luncheon series to engage executives, entrepreneurs and innovators on the trends and challenges facing business leaders today; and • increasing economic development with the addition of multiple new commercial enterprises citywide, including Ben E. Keith, Niagara Bottling LLC, Rich’s Food Products, Hampton Inn, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s emergent care facility, Frenchy’s Chicken and the future opening of an Academy Sports+Outdoors store.

Broussard is a veteran in Texas municipal government with more than 19 years of experience. Prior to joining the Missouri City staff, he was city manager of Hutto in the Austin area. He also was previously city manager of Navasota from 2001 to 2005, assistant city manager of Woodway from 2000 to 2001, and assistant to

Fort Bend ISD to host Public Review of Instructional Materials (Textbooks), Jan. 12-16

Fort Bend ISD will host a public review of Proclamation 2015 Instructional Material Resources (textbooks) on January 12-16. the city manager of College Proclamation 2015, issued by the State Board of Education, Station from 1997-2000. includes instructional materials for grades K-12 Social Studies, “Ed is a formidable leader K-12 Art and Music, and areas of Mathematics (including Algeand is well regarded by City bra I and II, Geometry, Precalculus and Advanced Quantitative Council,” said Mayor Allen Reasoning).

The instructional materials will be implemented Owen. “With his proactive in classrooms beginning in the 2015-2016 school year. The policies and team strategies, public may review these materials during the week of January Missouri City has earned rec12-16 between the hours of 8 a.m.to 7 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD ognition as the sixteenth best Education Complex (1555 Independence Blvd., Missouri City, place to live in the nation and 77489).

For more information, call (281) 634-2947. the sixth safest City in Texas.

We wish him the best of luck.”

Broussard is president of the Rotary Club of Oyster Creek, is active in state and international city management associations and is a credentialed manager with the International City/County Management Association. He was Region 7 Terminal Administration and Operations Facility president in 2007 for the Texas scheduled for January 12, 2015 City Management Association, served on that organization’s at the UH Library in Sugar Land Board of Directors from 2009 .

-2011 and was named TCMA’s 2011 Administrator of the Year.

The meeting planned for January 15, 2015 at the Broussard earned his BachFort Bend County Fairgrounds is still scheduled. elor of Arts degree in history from Texas A& M University in 1994 and his Master in Public Administration from Texas Tech University in 1997.

His last day with the City will be Friday, Feb. 6. The City Council will consider appointment of an interim city manager at their meetings in January.

Missouri City is currently conducting a nationwide search to fill the City Manager position. Interested applicants may contact Dr. Edward Williams, Director of Human Resources & Organizational Development, at ewilliams@missouricitytx. gov or by calling 281.403.8680.

NOTICE: The Public Meeting Set for Fort Bend County Public Transportation

Has Been Cancelled

Missouri City gears up for 2015 H-E-B Community Challenge Beginning Jan. 1, 2015, Missouri City will once again partner with local agencies, schools, area leaders and residents to compete in the annual H-E-B Community Challenge.

As a way to increase local involvement and help Missouri City shine in the upcoming challenge, Missouri City staff has launched its own New Year’s Resolution wellness program titled “The 2015 You.” The third-annual H-E-B Community Challenge launches January 1, 2015 and runs through April. This one-of-akind competition spans four months and challenges communities across the state to compete to see which can demonstrate the greatest commitment to healthy living. The Challenge unites and mobilizes schools, businesses, organizations, community members and leaders toward the common goal of transforming their community’s health.

From Jan. 1 to March 31, Missouri City’s own “The 2015 You” program will provide residents with an opportunity to earn tokens by participating

in one of 50 activities. Each time a resident successfully completes one of the activities, they will receive a MCPARD token. A full list of the 50 activities can be found on the City’s website: http://bit. ly/1B4GpS1.

Residents will only receive tokens from select Parks and Recreation sponsored activities; activities that are a part of the “The 2015 You” program will be designated with a MCPARD Token on flyers, press releases, social media postings and other marketing materials.

“This new year, Missouri City Parks and Recreation is renewing our dedication to improving the quality of life of all citizens,” Parks and Recreation Director Larry Foos said. “By participating in ‘The 2015 You’ program, Missouri City staff will help residents accomplish their New Year’s resolutions in an easy, stress-free and entertaining way.”

Residents will receive tokens for completing each task on the Parks and Recreation activity list. Tokens can be

redeemed at future “Show Me Rec” Marketplaces.

Tokens earned through the program can later be cashed in for items at future “Show Me Rec” Marketplaces that will be held at the Recreation and Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr. Items for “sale” at the marketplace will include a variety of coupons and gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses, free gym memberships and training sessions, tickets to Missouri City events, clothing, exercise equipment and more.

The dates for the marketplaces will be determined at a future date.

“When you participate in a program located at the Rec Center, or sponsored by Parks and Recreation, find a staff member to receive your token,” Recreation Specialist Lindsay Valeri said. “If the activity is not sponsored by Parks and Recreation, share your photo with us at Facebook.com/ MissouriCityTX and Twitter. com/MissouriCityTX with the hashtag #ShowMeRec. Residents can also redeem tokens in person at the Recreation and

Tennis Center by showing their photos to staff.”

Residents can register at hebcommuncitychallenge.com to earn an initial 50 points for Missouri City in the H-E-B Community Challenge. The website has details on how residents can step up to the Challenge.

Residents are encouraged to also log their photo activities from “The 2015 You” at the H-E-B Challenge website, hebcommunitychallenge.com.

Activities uploaded to the website will earn Missouri City points for the 2015 challenge; Missouri City was previously rewarded by H-E-B by placing third in the 2013 Challenge in the Mid-Size community category.

The 2013 mayoral video also earned the City a bronze Telly Award in the “Best Use of Humor” category. Learn more about the Community Challenge and its sponsor “It’s Time Texas,” an organization that promotes healthy living and building healthier communities, by visiting www. hebcommunitychallenge.com.

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30 years in prison for theft and money laundering Jennifer Anne Thomas pleaded guilty on December 19, 2014 to the first-degree felonies of Theft and Money Laundering after which 400th District Court Judge Maggie Perez-Jaramillo sentenced her to 30 years in prison.

The 41-year-old Houston woman was charged with stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer over two years as their bookkeeper.

According to Assistant District Attorney Rodolfo Ramirez, Thomas was hired to manage the finances of the company. From October 2011 through November 2013, she stole approximately $327,000 by forging company checks and taking out a $150,000 line of credit.

The defendant used the money to pay for trips to Las Vegas and make retail purchas-

Thomas es, including Zale’s Jewelry and Bass Pro Shops. Thomas went so far as to spend $3,000 for landscaping and $500 on a restaurant bill.

Unfortunately, her employer was unaware at the time of her hire that she was charged with a 2nd degree felony theft in Harris County.

The Harris County District Attorney’s office agreed to

probation in that case because she was able to pay a lump sum of $75,000 to the first victim.

Ironically, that payment was made with money stolen from her employer in Fort Bend County.

“Judge Jaramillo told the defendant that this case was about broken trust and how we value it,” said Ramirez.

“I couldn’t agree more.

Thomas is not just untrustworthy – she is selfish, and bled

companies for her own gain.”

Theft and Money Laundering in this case are both firstdegree felonies punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

Thomas was eligible to receive probation again. Assistant District Attorneys Rodolfo Ramirez and Jenna Rudoff prosecuted the case. Attorney Thomas Stickler represented the defendant.

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State of the City of Rosenberg with Mayor Vincent Morales Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr. will present the State of the City of Rosenberg in collaboration with the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, on Thursday, February 12, 2015.

Mayor Morales will provide an update on Rosenberg’s newest developments, mobility and infrastructure projects, and other changes occurring in and around Rosenberg. The luncheon will be held at Safari Texas, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond, from 11:30 – 1:00 p.m.

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107292 3rd Rev

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 7, 2015

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS

Just try it... and see what happens

By CAROLYN BOWDEN THE HOLIDAY GREETING: With my “list� in hand, upon which were written (in the order of lst, 2nd, 3rd, etc), the 8 locations of each errand, my goal was to be back home by noon. (Of course, it was more like 1:30 because I always see someone I know, which means I will stop and visit.)

As I parked at my ďŹ rst stop I saw a maintenance man digging a deep hole for a pipe repair. The thought just ashed into my mind: “Tell him MERRY CHRISTMAS as you walk by.â€? So I did; and his reaction was GREAT! He was initially surprised but in a second, his face was ďŹ lled with a BIG smile and he said “Merry Christmasâ€? back to me. As I continued down the sidewalk and into the building, I would carefully plan the “exactâ€? moment to speak, so that I would not break step but would have time to see the reaction of each person. By the time I reached the elevator I was “on a rollâ€?.

Fortunately no one stopped at the 2nd oor so I had time to wait for everyone to be quiet. (Usually, no one ever

rived home feeling so full of the SPIRIT OF JOY AND HAPPINESS. Now I know how Scrooge felt that Christmas Morning when he thrust open the shutters of his bedroom window and proclaimed to all in the street below: “MERRY CHRISTMAS�.

Bowden even looks at the other people in the elevator much less talks to them). This elevator was a rectangle so everyone was backed against the wall, single ďŹ le.

I said: “MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOUâ€? ‌..

There was a stunned silence and then lots of smiles, some laughed and everyone returned my greeting. The elevator was ďŹ lled with the joy of the season. You could feel it.

And that was just the FIRST STOP! There were 7 more to follow, all different in some way. BUT all those I spoke to had identical reactions.

WHAT HAPPENED: I ar-

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

12551, Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487 www.fbindependent.com Seshadri Kumar 281-980-6745 Publisher & Editor )RUW %HQG ,QGHSHQGHQW 8636 LV SXEOLVKHG HYHU\ :HGQHVGD\ IRU D VXEVFULSWLRQ UDWH RI SHU \HDU E\ )RUW %HQG ,QGHSHQGHQW //& (PLO\ &RXUW 6XJDU /DQG 7H[DV 3HULRGLFDOV 3RVWDJH 3DLG DW 6WDIIRUG 7H[DV 32670$67(5 6HQG DGGUHVV FKDQJHV WR )RUW %HQG ,QGHSHQGHQW 3 2 %R[ 6XJDU /DQG 7[

NEGATIVITY: As I had moved into “senior-hood� I became more frustrated with the “negativity� that exists in our lives. No matter where we go, it is in our “faces�.

How can I, just one person, improve the world around me?

I then discovered that if I just greeted people wherever I went with a smile, they would instantly return my smile.

Seeing that this worked, then, I began to add a “Good Morning� or a “Good Afternoon� or a “Good Evening�.

JUST TRY IT: Start with just a “SMILE� to all you meet. (You never know when that could be the “only� smile that they will receive that day.) And when that smile is returned to you, then, BINGO, you have just improved the world around you for that single second!!!

Next Column: January 21.

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

HEALTH Flu Shot may be less effective this year, (Get vaccinated, regardless) HOUSTON According to the CDC, this year’s flu vaccine may not be as effective because the current strain of the virus has mutated. Researchers are concerned this could translate to a flu season that is more severe than usual.

Based on daily volumes for the month of December, the Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center (TMC) Campus is currently seeing the usual winter volume of flu patients, but that could change at any moment.

So what does this mean for those who already received the vaccine this year? And for those who haven’t yet, is it too late? Or would it even do any good?

Arlo Weltge, M.D., a UTHealth emergency medicine physician affiliated with Memorial Herman-TMC, provides answers to all these questions and more.

70 percent.

complications from inuenza.

Is it true that the u vaccine is less effective this year?

And, if so, should I still get it and why?

According to the CDC, one of the inuenza strains mutated making the vaccine against that strain less effective. However, vaccination can still provide some protection against drifted, or mutated, viruses and might reduce the likelihood of severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death; for example, if one contracts the mutated strain but has received the immunization, one may only be on bed rest for three days instead of a full week or more. In addition, the vaccine is still effective for the other strains it covers that have not mutated, such as inuenza A (H1N1) and B viruses. Receiving the vaccine will also reduce one’s risk of passing the u on to others.

At what age do you need to get a u shot?

The CDC recommends anyone above the age of 6 months gets the inuenza vaccination.

What causes the u?

Inuenza is caused by a group of viruses that live in respiratory secretions of affected individuals.

Is the nasal spray option as effective as the u shot?

The nasal spray vaccine, called FluMist, is a needlefree version that is sprayed up the nose. It is a more effective vaccine in children. It’s made the old-fashioned way, using eggs, so those with egg allergies will want to receive the shot instead. The CDC also says because it’s a “live� vaccine, it may protect against the mutated strain better than other vaccines.

What are the symptoms of the u?

Inuenza normally starts with an achy body and progresses to fever with chills, coughs and headaches. Inuenza can range from mild to severe, depending on immunization to the virus, allowing some people to return to work and/ or school in just a few days.

Is the u harmful?

According to the CDC, over 50,000 people died of inuenza and pneumonia in the United States in 2010. The inuenza virus can range from mild to severe depending on the health of the person who is infected and his or her body’s immunization to the virus.

Does the u shot really work?

The inuenza vaccine does work, but it is not a cure. The vaccine is created to immunize the body from three to four strains depending on the vaccine received. The strains that people are vaccinated with are strains that the CDC and other organizations predetermine to be the dominant inuenza strains of the season. The vaccination prepares the body and starts the body’s immunization to these strains. The vaccine may not keep people from getting the virus but it lessens the severity of the virus and decreases inuenza-related hospitalizations by approximately

If I’ve had the u before, can I get it again?

There are many strains of inuenza, meaning that people who have had the u before may get it again. Their bodies have developed an immune system for one strain but not all of them. This is another reason to get vaccinated against inuenza annually.

Each year, different strains are vaccinated and over the years these immunizations build up and protect people better from the inuenza viruses.

When do I need to get the vaccine?

Flu season is from October 1 to April 30. It is recommended to get the vaccine in September or early October. If you have not gotten the vaccine yet, it’s not too late to get one now but, generally speaking, it’s always better getting it as early as possible.

Does the u shot contain thimerosal?

Thimerosal is a preservative which keeps bacteria and other germs from contaminating the vaccine during its storage.

The inuenza shot does contain thimerosal but the nasal spray does not.

Aren’t vaccines dangerous?

I hear they can cause developmental disorders such as autism.

Studies show there is no link between receiving a vaccine and autism. Vaccines have led to more diseases like measles, meningitis and mumps becoming rare occurrence in the United States – diseases that affected millions before.

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group welcomes Dr. Scruggs

What strains of u does the vaccine protect against?

This year’s vaccine was targeted to protect against H3N2 strain, which is the one that has mutated, and either one or two B strains, depending on the vaccine, and the H1N1 strain.

Can pregnant women get the u shot?

Yes, pregnant women should receive the inuenza vaccine to protect themselves and the baby too. Pregnant women have a higher risk for serious

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What are the most common side effects from the u shot?

The most common side effects are bruising and pain at the injection site. Serious side effects can include difďŹ culty breathing, diffuse rash and paralysis but these side effects are rare. People have a greater chance of being hospitalized from the u.

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ABWA Fort Bend Monthly Meeting January 8, 2015 Quail Valley Country Club 2880 La Quinta Dr, Missouri City, TX Networking begins at 5:00 pm Start Your New Year With Networking!

For Reservations RSVP: Marilyn@nelson-marketing.com

Scruggs Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is pleased to welcome internal medicine specialist Dr. Adrianne Scruggs.

Dr. Scruggs will open her practice in Sugar Land, located at 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 210. Dr. Scruggs is board-certiďŹ ed in internal medicine, and her practice serves adults. “I am thrilled to be a part of Houston Methodist Primary Care Group,â€? says Dr. Scruggs. “The Fort Bend area is an exciting place, and I am looking forward to establishing long-term relationships with my patients in Sugar Land and surrounding areas. I am especially pleased to be afďŹ liated with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and to have access to the hospital’s leading technology and excellent staff.â€?

Dr. Scruggs comes to Houston Methodist Primary Care Group from The University of Texas Medical Branch in League City. She earned her medical degree at Meharry Medical College in Nashville and her undergraduate degree from Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Scruggs, visit houstonmethodist.org/primarycare or call 713.394.MPCG (6724).

News New Darling Homes neighborhood debuts at Sugar Land’s Avalon at Riverstone

Darling Homes has unveiled its newest collection of homes at Avalon at Riverstone with the unveiling of the Houston homebuilder’s gated community in the popular Sugar Land neighborhood.

More than a dozen floor plans will be available at Avalon at Riverstone, with the single and two-story homes ranging in size from approximately 2,500 square feet to more than 3,600 square feet.

The three- and four-bedroom floor plans offer plenty of options for homebuyers including media rooms, guest suites, game rooms and more - all in one of the most highly desired master-planned communities in the area. Homes start from the $410,000s.

“This is a special opportunity for homebuyers who want to be a part of Avalon at Riverstone and appreciate the attention to detail and craftsmanship that Darling Homes offers,” said Amy Rino, president of Darling Homes’ Houston division.

“Homebuyers have the chance to live in one of the last remaining sections of what we consider one of the premier master-planned communities in Houston,” Rino said.

Located along Highway 6, near U.S. 59 and the Fort Bend Parkway, and just a short distance from Houston’s major employment centers, Avalon at Riverstone is an active community featur-

First United Methodist Church presents the Quartet, “Collage” The Friends of the Arts, First United Methodist Church, Missouri City, presents in concert the unique quartet, “Collage.”

These four talented musicians formed their collaborative quartet a few years ago in order to combine their unique talents to perform music of all types. The quartet includes Mezzo soprano, Christy Compson, clarinetist, June Garrison, soprano, Carla Hammock, and pianist, Roy Wylie.

The concert is Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 4 p.m in the Chapel of the Resurrection at FUMC, Missouri City. The church is located at 3900 Lexington Blvd. at the cross street of Murphy Road.

The concert is free to the public, thanks to generous Patron of the Arts donors.

Handicapped parking is available and greeters will be at the door to welcome guests and offer programs.

Love donations are graciously accepted.

For more information, please call 281-499-3502 or email us at FriendsoftheArts@comcast.net.

ing 20 miles of hike and bike trails, tennis courts, a resortstyle pool and state-of-theart fitness center. The community is also located within the prestigious Fort Bend Independent School District (ISD).

For more information about Avalon at Riverstone and to sign up for updates please visit www.darlinghomes.com.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Taylor Morrison Home Corporation operates in the U.S. under the Taylor Morrison and Darling Homes brands and in Canada under the Monarch brand.

Taylor Morrison is a builder and developer of single-family detached and attached homes serving a wide array of customers including firsttime, move-up, luxury and 55+ or better. Taylor Morrison divisions operate in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida and Texas.

Darling Homes serves move-up and luxury homebuyers in Texas. Monarch, Canada’s oldest homebuilder builds homes for first-time and move-up buyers in Toronto and Ottawa as well as high rise condominiums in Toronto.

For more information about Taylor Morrison, Darling Homes or Monarch, please visit www.taylormorrison.com, www.darlinghomes.com and www.monarchgroup.net.

JANUARY 7, 2015 • INDEPENDENT • Page 5

Houston Methodist hosts free varicose and spider vein seminar Varicose veins can be unsightly and may cause discomfort or pain. In some cases, they can even lead to serious health problems. Understanding more about varicose veins can help you decide how to better deal with them. Ulises Baltazar, M.D., board-certified vascular surgeon with Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates, answers some commonly asked questions.

Q: What are varicose veins?

A: They are enlarged veins that may be blue, red or fleshcolored and occur most often in the legs. They may appear twisted and bulging and may be raised above the surface of the skin.

Q: What causes them?

A: Varicose veins may be caused by weak, damaged, deformed or missing valves in the veins. Your leg muscles push blood back to the heart against gravity. Normally, valves in your veins keep your blood flowing forward to return it to your heart. But if the valves aren’t working properly, blood can leak back into the veins and pool there.

When backed-up blood makes the veins bigger, they can become varicose.

Q: How common are they?

A: Varicose veins affect half of people 50 years and older. They are more common among older people, people who are overweight or obese, those who sit or stand for long periods, and women.

Q: When should I see a health care provider about varicose veins?

A: You should seek treatment if varicose veins cause pain or aching; a vein is red, swollen, very tender or warm to the touch; the skin on your calf and ankle becomes thick and changes color, or has sores; a varicose vein begins to bleed; or your symptoms interfere with your daily activities.

Q: How are varicose veins treated?

A: Varicose veins are treated in the following ways: • Self-care— Getting regular exercise that uses the legs; eating a low-salt, high-fiber diet; maintaining a healthy weight; and elevating your legs when resting may help ease pain and keep varicose veins from getting worse.

• Compression stockings— Over-the-counter or prescription-strength compression stockings squeeze

your legs, helping blood move more efficiently.

• Sclerotherapy— A doctor injects a solution into the veins that scars and closes them. In a few weeks, the veins should fade away, but additional treatments may be required. This procedure may be used for small or mediumsize varicose veins.

• Laser treatment— Very strong bursts of light are sent through the skin to the veins, making them slowly fade and disappear. This is usually only effective for small veins.

• Catheter-assisted procedures— A doctor threads a tiny tube called a catheter into a vein, then uses either radiofrequency or laser energy (heat) at the tip of the catheter to close off and seal the vein as the catheter is removed.

This treatment is effective for large varicose veins.

• Ambulatory phlebectomy— This is another surgical procedure that involves removing veins through small incisions, but only the parts of the leg that will be pricked are numbed with anesthesia.

• Vein stripping— A long vein is surgically removed through small inci-

sions; general anesthesia is often required. This procedure is usually reserved for very large veins.

You don’t have to live with the discomfort and embarrassment of varicose veins. For an appointment with Dr. Baltazar, call 281.240.8400.

FREE VEIN SEMINAR Join Dr. Ulises Baltazar on Thursday, January 29 at 6 p.m. for a free vein seminar at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s conference center. He will be speaking about the causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatments and prevention of varicose and spider veins. Registration required.

Register online at houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.274.7500.

Ulises Baltazar, M.D.

Get on your mark, get set, go!

Mark your calendars and grab your tennis shoes for it is once again time for the annual 13th Texas Med Fun Run 2015, presented by The Sue and Lester Smith Foundation.

Runners will be lining up, Saturday, February 7, 2015, Ben Taub General Hospital, 1504 Taub Loop, Houston, TX 77030, 8:00 am to 11:00 am. After the runs, be sure to check your standings at the live finish time streaming station and stay for the post-race party and awards!

“There are so many people in Fort Bend County that work at the Medical Center, that we are sending a special invitation to them and their families to join us for this Fun Run,” said Ruth Ransom, executive director, Harris County Hos-

pital District Foundation.

Families and all who participated last year will be interested to know, that the 5K and 10K Races are fully sanctioned and certified by the Gulf Coast Association of USA Track & Field.

“The Children’s activities will include a 1K and children’s fun activity area, complete with photo booths. All in the kids area who complete the distance will receive medals,” Ransom said.

For the 5K walk or run, teams of five are invited to compete for the big trophy, for the best overall time.

There will also be competitions within the male and female age groups for trophies for this sanctioned run.

“Walkers are also encour-

aged to join the day of fun, for healthy exercise, especially since it will be after the holidays, so we’ll all be walking or running off those holiday desserts,” Ransom said.

For the new 10K sanctioned run, teams are invited or individuals eager to run to improve their own time.

“At the after party, awards will be given out,” Ransom said.

This Fun Run is a known as community favorite, with the course around and through the Texas Medical Center. Moreover, this event is also one of the most important as it supports the TroubleShooters Program, which is a mobile van that visits day care centers, after school programs, schools and places children

gather so the medical team can check on their health. If immunizations are needed, they are provided for free, with parental consent.

So come on out and walk, run or simply enjoy the fun, vendor booths, and all that will be happening on the grounds around Ben Taub Hospital!

“We are the largest Health Care Provider in Houston, yet most know us by our community clinics, and hospitals like Ben Taub. We cannot do all we do without your support, so join us Feb. 7th and have fun and make!” Ransom said.

For more information, parking map or to register, please visit the website, www.

HCHDFoundation.org.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 7, 2015

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE Telfair SL•$885,000•5/41/2/3 7514T

Orchard Lake Estates•$2,200mo•3/2/213019ML

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Knowledgeable! Experienced!

Hardworking!

Competitive!

Action Oriented!

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281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group For Lease

Meadows Place•Kangaroo Ct.•5/3/0

For All Your Real Estate Needs Call Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor (281) 414-8400 www.ArleneRolsen.com Sienna Plantation MC•$869,900•4/4.1/3 34TT

Lost Creek • $229,000 • 4/3.1/2 21514C

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$159,000 $159,000 Richmond • Pine Mills • 4/2.5/2

$229,900

Zoning Board of Adjustment Public Hearing 5:00 p.m., January 21, 2015, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed Special Exception to the Rear Yard Setback for 3430 Creekstone Drive, Lot 38, Block 1, Colony Creek Section One, in the Restricted Single Family Residential (R-1R) District.

City of Sugar Land, City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North. Details of the proposed Special Exception may be obtained by contacting City of Sugar Land Development Planning Office by email planning@sugarlandtx.gov or phone (281) 275-2218.

VICINITY MAP:

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR 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 29, 2015 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.

Zoning Board of Adjustment Public Hearing 5:00 p.m., January 21, 2015, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed Special Exception to the Street Side Yard Setback for 2007 Oakhurst Parkway, Lot 1, Block 2, Oaks of Alcorn Section Two, in the Standard Single-Family Residential (R-1) District.

City of Sugar Land, City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North. Details of the proposed Special Exception may be obtained by contacting City of Sugar Land Development Planning Office by email planning@sugarlandtx.gov or phone (281) 275-2218.

VICINITY MAP:

RFP 15-047 – REDUNDANT ETHERNET SERVICE Detailed pricing is required. 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 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 22, 2015 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. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

BID 15-043 – PROVIDE AND INSTALL BASEBALL BARRIER NETTING Lump sum pricing is 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SPECIAL EXCEPTION REAR YARD SETBACK 22 GRAND MANOR

Zoning Board of Adjustment Public Hearing 5:00 p.m., January 21, 2015, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed Special Exception to the Rear Yard Setback for 22 Grand Manor, Lot 1, Block 2, Sweetwater Estates Section One, in the Residential Estate (R-1E) District.

City of Sugar Land, City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North. Details of the proposed Special Exception may be obtained by contacting City of Sugar Land Development Planning Office by email planning@sugarlandtx.gov or phone (281) 275-2218.

VICINITY MAP:

SOLD

Mission Bend • Rancho Blanco • 3/2/1

$109,900

SOLD

Meadows Place•River Meadow•3/2.5/2 Meadows Place•Scottsdale•4/2/2

$158,500

$179,000

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 29, 2015 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. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SPECIAL EXCEPTION REAR YARD SETBACK 3430 CREEKSTONE DRIVE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SPECIAL EXCEPTION STREET SIDE YARD SETBACK 2007 OAKHURST PARKWAY

Meadows Place • Alston • 4/2/2

1. BID 15-044 – SHERIFF’S OFFICE INTERIOR REMODEL OF WEST JAIL TOWER: A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, January 15, 2015 at 10:00AM (CST). The pre- b i d conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Sheriff ’s Office Lobby located at 1410 Williams ay Blvd, Richmond, Texas 77469. A site visit will commence immediately following the pre-bid. All bidders are encouraged to attend. This is the only date and time vendors will be permitted to complete a site visit and job measurements.

2. BID 15-045 – DOUBLE TURN LANE AT A PRIVATE DRIVE ON FRY ROAD: A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, January 15, 2015 at 9:00AM (CST).

The prebid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Travis Annex at 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, Texas 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend Lump sum and unit 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

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 29, 2015 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 Q15-046 – DESIGN/BUILD EQUIPMENT BARN AT FREEDOM PARK 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

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF EDITH PORTLAND, DECEASED, ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JAMES PORTLAND, DECEASED, AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THIS LAND 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 16, 2015 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 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on OCTOBER 27, 2014. It bears cause number 14- DCV-218744 and is styled: Irma Idalia Alvarez and Miguel Facundo Perez v. All Unknown Heirs of Edith Portland, Deceased; All Unknown Heirs of James Portland, Deceased; and Any and All Unknown Persons Claiming an Interest in This Land The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: BRENT LANE BEARD & LANE PC 12841 JONES ROAD STE 100 HOUSTON TX 77070 281-897-8848 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows towit: THIS IS A SUIT BY PLAINTIFF TO ESTABLISH OWNERSHIP TO THE PROPERTY BY ADVERSE POSSESSION; ALL OF LOT 51, BLOCK 2, OF ARCOLA FARMS, STREET ADDRESS: 703 COEN RD/722 N PINE ST, ROSHARON, TEXAS 77583.

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 29th day of December, 2014.

District Clerk Annie Rebecca Elliott Fort Bend County, Texas Deputy District Clerk Layla Helton Telephone: (281) 633-7635

CITATION BY PUBLICATION STATE OF TEXAS TO: ROYMAUN BALDON and to all whom it may concern, Respondent(s), 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 the Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and petition, 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 petition of SHALESHA THOMAS, Petitioner, was filed in the 328TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County, Texas ON THIS THE 13TH DAY OF MARCH, 2014 against ROYMAUN BALDON, Respondent(s), numbered 14-DCV-213175, and entitled IN THE INTEREST OF ROYMAUN BALDON JR., A CHILD. The suit request SUIT AFFECTING THE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP as is more fully shown by Petition on file in this suit.

The date and place of birth of the child(ren) who is/are the subject of the suit: MAY 02,2002 FORT BEND COUNTY The Court has authority in this suit to render an order in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding on you, including the termination of the parentchild relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 31st day of December, 2014.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER OR RESPONDENT: FRANK E. MANN, Ill LAW OFFICES OF FRANK E MANN PC 5151 KATY FREEWAY, SUITE 140 HOUSTON TX 77007 713-524-6868 By: DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Deputy District Clerk Michele Olguin Telephone: (281) 633-7649

CITATION BY PUBLICATION STATE OF TEXAS TO: UNKNOWN ALLEGED FATHER OF VICTORIA LIZ SANTA CRUZ ADDRESS UNKNOWN and to all whom it may concern, Respondent(s), You have been sued.

You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and petition, 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 petition of AUBREE ROBINSON; DOUGLAS ROBINSON, Petitioners, was filed in the 387TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County, Texas ON THIS THE 28TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2014 against UNKNOWN ALLEGED FATHER, Respondent(s), numbered 14DCV-218732, and entitled IN THE INTEREST OF VICTORIA LIZ SANTA CRUZ, A CHILD. The suit request TO TERMINATE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND FOR ADOPTION OF A CHILD as is more fully shown by Petition on file in this suit.

The date and place of birth of the child(ren) who is/are the subject of the suit: MAY 13,2013, SUGAR LAND, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS The Court has authority in this suit to render an order in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding on you, including the termination of the parentchild relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 31st day of December, 2014.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONERS: CYNTHIA D. RENDON MATSUSHIMA RENDON & THRASH PLLC 440 LOUISIANA ST SUITE 900 HOUSTON TX 77002 713-493-7544 By: DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Deputy Clerk Herlinda Nanez Telephone: (281) 633-7626

NOTICE TO BIDDERS PARKS LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: PROJECT NAME: ITB 2015-05 Parks Landscape Maintenance LOCATION OF WORK: City of Sugar Land Parks, Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering at Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2015, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 14, 2015 Brazos Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, TX 77479.

Questions regarding this bid must be received by Thursday, January 15, 2015 on or before 3:00 P.M. Please contact Jason Poscovsky CPPB, Contracts Manager at jposcovsky@ sugarlandtx.gov.

The City Council will award the bid to the lowest responsible bidder that complies with all requirements of the Request for Bids. The City of Sugar Land will give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) calendar days after the bid opening date and time.

Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 7, 2015 • Page 7

NEWS Hope For Three screens Temple Grandin — “Autism gave her a vision. She gave it a voice” Hope For Three invites Fort Bend County families living with or know someone living with autism to join us at a public screening of the awardwinning documentary film Temple Grandin on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at 2 p.m. at Santikos Palladium, 7301 Grand Pkwy, Richmond, TX 77407.

Admission is free and seating is limited.

This visually inventive film offers insights into Grandin’s world, taking the audience inside her mind with a series of snapshot images that trace

her self-perceptions and journey from childhood through young adulthood to the beginning of her career, and beyond.

Undaunted by education, social and professional roadblocks, Grandin turned her unique talent into a behavioral tool that revolutionized the cattle industry and laid the groundwork for her successful career as an author, lecturer and pioneering advocate for autism and autism spectrum disorder education.

The HBO film, which won a total of seven Emmy Awards

including, one Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award, originally aired February 6, 2010.

The film will kick off Dr. Temple Grandin’s upcoming interactive speaking engagement on Friday, February 6, 2015 at Sugar Creek Baptist Church.

Guests can reserve seating by visiting www.hopeforthree. org/dr-temple-grandin.

For more information, contact Christina at 800-317-0787.

Hope For Three - Autism Advocates Providing Help and Creating Hope!

Photo Credit: HBO Films.

“Autism is part of who I am.” – Temple Grandin.

Hope for Three presents Temple Grandin on Sunday, January 25th at Santikos Palladium. Visit www.hopeforthree.org/dr-temple-grandin/ for more information.

Hope For Thee - Autism Advocates Providing Help and Creating Hope.

Newborns receive special welcome at local libraries In celebration of Children’s Book Week, January 18-24, Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) will continue its annual tradition of welcoming newborns to the wonders of books.

Every Fort Bend County baby born during this week may receive a special baby book bag, courtesy of the Friends of Fort Bend County Library.

Each bag contains a book, a bib, a special certificate, a list of suggested reading for children, and information on parenting and on library services. These bags represent the library system’s commitment to providing library services for county residents throughout their lives, beginning at birth.

“We hope to start every child born in hospitals in Fort Bend County on a successful road to life-long learning,” says Susan King, Coordinator of Youth Services for FBCL. “We distribute the baby book bags to babies born during that week at OakBend Medical Center in Richmond, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, but ALL Fort Bend County babies who are born during Children’s Book Week are eligible to receive one, while supplies last.”

Families of Fort Bend babies born at other locations during Children’s Book Week should call the Youth Services department, at 281633-4762, to receive their book bag.

Not only is reading to a child a wonderful opportunity for bonding between parent and child, it has also been shown to stimulate brain de-

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Jamie McKenna shows some of the items in the Baby Book Bags velopment. Even the youngest baby can benefit from the chance to develop eye focus by looking at the page of a book, while being comforted by the familiar voice of a parent. Reading aloud to children exposes them to the sounds and cadences of a human voice, resulting in an earlier and stronger grasp of vocabulary skills.

Parents may introduce infants to the library by bringing them to Mother Goose Time, a free weekly parent/infant activity program that takes place at many of the branches in the Fort Bend County library system. As the children mature, other programs are designed to interest older children.

For more information, call the libraries’ Public Information Office at 281-633-4734.

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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 7, 2015

COMMUNITY

Unusual group gives back in unusual act with wishes from “Have a Merry Christmas” to “Have a Joyful Holiday Season” all through God’s Love. “These cards were filled with prayers, hopes, dreams, and scripture to uplift even the most isolated and homesick of people,” Mike, an inmate at Huntsville and a participant in the project, said.

In all 41 cards were made, and each of the men who attend the Chapel of Hope services, one of many of the religions in the unit, wrote messages inside the cards.

The messages were inspirational, caring, and tug at one’s heart strings as they are read.

“I was so moved when I read the messages each man had written, it brought tears to my eyes. The cards are so beautiful, they look almost like Hallmark cards, so professional and beautiful. The messages are definitely from the heart. All the men signed each of the cards,” Sunderland said.

“It is always inspiring to see acts of compassion and kindness in a world where such deeds have become increasingly rare. Even more uncommon are these acts being done without any expectation of acknowledgement or any type of reciprocation.

One recent event, which profoundly impressed me came from a place which many perceive as wicked and immoral; a place where the members are looked upon as corrupt and loathsome through the eyes of society. This place is the Walls Unit of Huntsville, a centerpiece for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice,” Mike said.

Yet, these men did not have

Donald Burling, had an idea, and it did not take long for it to come to fruition, but it took a host of people to make it happen.

The project started with a couple of dozen men, then a group in Sugar Land and Katy, and after a month of work and planning, it happened.

“Donald, an inmate at Huntsville, and the other men there know what it is like not to be with family during Christmas and the holidays.

And so they wanted to do something to let others, who do not have family or would not be spending the holidays with their families, know they had not been forgotten, something they often feel,” said Polly Sunderland, resident, Fort Bend County.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, who or where you are, being alone, especially this time of year creates a deep loneliness. The holidays are meant for family and friends, and without those precious faces around, it can simply feel empty. But giving to others can change that, and create a purpose for the holidays. And that is what this project succeeded in doing, plus bringing joy and happiness to others.

“This project was very important to these men, and Burling lived and breathed this project until it was finished.

It meant so much to them that they had something to give to others,” Sunderland said.

There are not a lot of resources for the inmates at the Huntsville Unit, but one thing they could do was to make holiday cards, with white paper and colored pencils, with pictures of holiday cheer

Polly Sunderland of Sugar Land who helped make this project happen, Activity Director, April Parker, at Oakmont of Katy where the bags and cards were delivered and Margaret P, who was one of the many recipients of the gift bags and cards. an outside contact to make sure the cards reached senior citizens in a nursing home, which was their target since they are often forgotten. Then someone suggested calling Polly Sunderland, a Sugar Land resident, who said yes, she would help.

Sunderland began to tell her neighbors about this project, and they wanted to help too.

One of Sunderland’s friend’s god mother was at a nursing home, Oakmont of Katy, and does not have many visitors.

So Oakmont, a residential healthcare center for the elderly was chosen.

“We thought how nice it would be to not only give these senior citizens the cards

but also a gift bag, so we decided to assemble gift bags and fill them with goodies, and of course the hand-made Christmas cards,” Sunderland said.

Sunderland and her friends shopped, and then filled the gifts bags with socks, chap stick, puzzles and word books pens and pencils, and other items. After the gift bags were complete, Sunderland called the Activity Director, April Parker, at Oakmont of Katy.

“Yes, our residents would love these cards and gift bags!

We could not do what we do for Christmas, to give our residents a Christmas celebration if it was not for our volunteers who help by providing gifts

for our residents. It means so much that these men made these beautiful cards out of their hearts. When I read one of the cards, it really touched me, please tell them I said thank you. The cards are beautiful,” Parker said.

Right before Christmas, Sunderland and friends delivered the cards and gift bags.

“We got to see the smiles of those who received the cards and bags during the Christmas party that was held, and I am so thrilled I could help these men help make Christmas a little brighter for others who may not have family close by, or have any family at all. This project is so meaningful to all of us,” Sunderland said.

“We may never live in a

perfect world, but with people such as those at the Walls Unit, along with the teachings of Christ, the outlook is very hopeful. We could all learn from the people who made mistakes, that there is always room to help others in their struggles of life,” Mike said.

All these men wanted to do was to give to others something they themselves were missing this year. And these inmates at Huntsville, when they started this mission, did not know Sunderland and her friends would help, or this article would be written. Burling, and the others did not know anyone would ever know that they simply wanted to brighten someone’s Christmas.

—REBECCA MAITLAND

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