Fort Bend Independent

ww www.fbindependent.com .fbindependent.com

Phone: 281-980-6745

VOL 7 No. 2

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2014

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

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

Nalco confirms plans to build new headquarters in Sugar Land

The Girl Scout Cookie Program begins door-to-door sales January 11. A new season brings with it a new cookie - Cranberry Citrus Crisps, a whole grain crispy cookie with tangy cranberry bits and citrus flavor. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girl-run business in the world and teaches girls essential skills to succeed personally and professionally, including goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics. When customers purchase a box of Girl Scout Cookies, they are enabling girls to become advocates for issues they are passionate about, sending a city kid from a low income household to camp or a girl overseas to learn about an archipelago, or helping girls purchase supplies to send care packages to soldiers serving overseas. Beginning February 21, Girl Scout Cookies will be sold at cookie booths outside of grocery stores and other retail venues. The cookie program ends March 30. Girl Scouts across the nation invite their communities to celebrate National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend, February 7-9, to highlight the real purpose of the $790 million Girl Scout Cookie Program: to teach girls five essential skills, including goal setting, decision making, money management, business ethics and people skills.

Make a difference 2014

By SESHADRI KUMAR Nalco Company which became Nalco Champion following its recent merger with Champion Technologies Inc. in Fresno near here, will build a new headquarters in Sugar Land.

Last year, Nalco acquired 18.5 acres next to its existing facility in Sugar Land from the Imperial development tract.

Now, Nalco Champion has revealed that it plans to build a 133,000-square-foot building at the 18.5-acre site, and the building will accommodate 1,000 Nalco Champion employees, according to a report in the Houston Business Journal. Some Nalco and Champion employees will relocate to the facility from other Houston and Fresno sites.

Nalco Champion also plans to renovate its existing 45,000-square-foot Sugar Land office next to the new headquarters building.

This existing facility will expand its research, development and engineering lab facilities.

Nalco Champion is part of the Ecolab group of com-

panies, Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, Ecolab develops and markets programs, products, and services for the hospitality, food service, healthcare, industrial, and energy markets.

The Sugar Land operation is the headquarters for the Global Energy Services Division of the company.

Nalco is the world’s leading water treatment and process improvement company. Their products and services provide environmentally safe solutions to oil and gas customers in many areas of production such as water and air quality matters.

The company employs over 500 people in Sugar Land located on U.S. Highway 90A. This location has been in service since the 1920s.

“This project will help us bring together our people as one team, creating a critical mass of industry knowledge and a research and development powerhouse to better serve our customers,” Steve Taylor, president of Nalco Champion and an Ecolab executive vice president, was

quoted as saying in a statement.

“The new headquarters building and related renovation also reaffirms our continued commitment to the City of Sugar Land, where our company has long held a corporate presence.”

Nalco Champion expects to complete the new headquarters building in late 2015, Houston Business Journal reports.

In 2011, the company began evaluating site location alternatives for further expansion of its global research and development headquarters, as well as the permanent headquarters for the Global Energy Services Division.

In October 2012, the city of Sugar Land approved an economic development performance agreement with Nalco.

An incentive payment of $2 million was to be paid in 5 separate payments of $400,000 for each performance obligation identified in the Performance Agreement.

As a part of the agreement the company promised to make their expansion in Sugar Land by purchasing 18-acres, add-

ing a new 100,000 square foot office building, relocating the existing Union Pacific Railroad crossing to their existing corporate office complex, relocating switching operations on the property, and relocating warehouse property in order to reconfigure the operations.

These modifications will allow Nalco to increase their office space and parking as well as provide for expansion opportunities for their Research and Development activities.

According to city officials, the economic impact of this expansion to the City included the following benefits: • Add 220 new jobs with an average salary of $80,000 over the next 10 years • Capital investment of $33 million • Use 5,000 Sugar Land hotel room nights annually The incentive was to be divided into 5 payments with each payment being contingent on the successful completion of each phase of the improvements. However, all improvements and performance obligations must be completed within 10-years.

Missouri City Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald leaves; Mike Berezin appointed interim chief

Are you looking for something meaningful to do in the New Year and interested in making a difference in the lives of children?

Beginning February 3, Child Advocates of Fort Bend is offering a week-long training class to train volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. This is one of two opportunities in 2014 to complete the volunteer training class in a single week. Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a voice for abused and neglected children in Fort Bend County. With an army of volunteers, Child Advocates of Fort Bend currently serves more than 400 children each month through its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program and Children’s Advocacy Center. Gearing up for training (L to R) are Metoyer Martin, Heather Rashid, Leroy Hodge and Casey Davis. Volunteers must be over 21 years of age, complete an application and submit to background screening. For more information or an application, contact Volunteer Services at 281-344-5100 or bknudson@cafb.org.

Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors hosted a holiday cereal drive benefitting the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. Over 75 boxes of cereal were collected at the social club’s December membership meeting and coffee social. Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors is a women’s social and philanthropic 501(c)7

Leaving a formidable legacy of leadership, Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald is moving on from the “Show Me City” to continue his career as Chief of Police in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

During his 4 1/2-year tenure, Fitzgerald has been instrumental in promoting transparency within the Missouri City Police department and has made great strides in fostering crime-prevention partnerships with the public.

Implementing innovative community-oriented and problem-solving policing strategies, Fitzgerald worked with the force to achieve multiple successes, including earning the City national recognition for its safe streets.

In 2013, Missouri City was ranked as one of the top 20 safest cities in Texas by Safe Wise, a company that specializes in security systems; and, the Department became the 26th Texas police department to receive re-recognized accreditation status from the Texas Police Chief’s Association.

In acknowledging the accomplishment, independent TPCA auditors noted that MCPD passed an expanded 165 standards as part of the process.

“Achieving this is a result of the commitment and dedication that exists throughout the entire organization,” Fitzgerald said at a recent event held to honor his contributions.

“I have officers that are working here day in and day out, and they know what the level of expectation is here in Missouri City. We raised the level of expectation, and I’m very excited to have been part of the team here.”

Utilizing more than 22 years of comprehensive law-enforce-

Berezin ment experience, Fitzgerald was adept at strategic planning and instilling organizational accountability through COMPSTAT, intelligence-led policing, training initiatives, proactive policies and community collaborations.

These efforts led the Missouri City Police Department to achieve “recognition” for standards of operational excellence and to become a benchmark for agencies seeking to foster similar relationships with their communities.

“Chief Fitzgerald has brought a lot of new and innovative ideas to Missouri City,” said Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen.

“He is known nationwide for his efforts, and a lot of people have been trying to hire him over the years. Allentown just touched home,” he said referring to Fitzgerald’s East Coast roots.

Before coming to Missouri City, Fitzgerald was an esteemed member of the City of Philadelphia Police Department where he gained signifi-

organization that promotes charitable, social and humanitarian projects within Fort Bend County. Club membership is open to all women residing in Fort Bend County. For more information visit www.fbfn.org or email vpmembership@fbfn.org. (L to R) Nancy Frank, FBFN President; Charlotte Guettner, second VP Coffees; and Carole Kanusky, FBFN first VP Luncheons.

cant experience in narcotics enforcement and violent crime abatement. Expertise he gained there and partnerships he has built here have resulted in helping the City reduce major crimes by more than 32 percent over the past five years.

“If you think about how he has pushed and motivated the Police department to become one of the premier lawenforcement agencies in this state, if not in the country, it’s an amazing thing,” City Manager Edward Broussard said.

“He led the paradigm shift toward community-oriented policing. The community knows who the police officers are.”

Fitzgerald is a 2010 winner of the NAACP President’s Award for his community policing work, and has been honored for exceptional service as Chief of Police in Missouri City by the Texas State House of Representatives (Bill-HR 2121).

“I’m amazed at how many people I’ve run across that have met Joel and how impressed they are with him and what he’s done in Missouri City,” Stafford Police Chief Bobby Krahn said. “In Texas, a cowboy who throws a big loop gathers in a lot of people, and he has definitely done that.”

Before departing, Fitzgerald announced Assistant Chief of Operations Mike Berezin as Interim Chief.

Berezin, well-known for his leadership and exemplary service, was promoted to his assistant chief position in 2011 and was in command of the Patrol and the Criminal Investigation Divisions. He began his law enforcement career with the Missouri City Police Department in January 1989 as a Patrol Officer.

Interim Chief Mike Berezin has an exemplary record of service and succeeds Fitzgerald.

Chief Berezin has served as Field Training Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant and Captain of the Patrol Division.

In that position, he oversaw the department’s respected community outreach program through which supervisors are assigned to attend homeowners’ association meetings and collaborate with residents on crime prevention measures.

In 1990 he was honored as “Officer of the Year” by the Fort Bend County 100 Club; the award was also bestowed on him in 2001 by the 100 Club of Greater Houston.

Berezin is a graduate of the Leadership Command College at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and of the 236th Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Missouri City is currently conducting a nationwide search for the Police Chief position.

10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 10701 Corporate Dr., #282, Stafford, Texas 77477. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Stafford, Texas.

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

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014

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— Overthe-counter or prescriptionstrength compression stockings squeeze your legs, helping blood

Ulises Baltazar, M.D. 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 medium-size 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 incisions; 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 us on Tuesday, January 21 at 6 p.m. for a free vein seminar at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s conference center. Seminar will be presented

by Dr. Ulises Baltazar, who will be speaking about the causes, symptoms, who is at risk, treatments and prevention of varicose and spider veins. Registration required. Call 281-274-7500 or register online at houstonmethodist.org/events.

FORT BEND SPOTLIGHT

Ѣіљёіћєȱ ѢюљіѡѦȱ ќњђѠȱѓџќњȱѡѕђȱǞŗşŖ ȱѢѝȱѡќȱѡѕђȱ$650s 1 Firethorne

from the $220s - $590s 1,600 - 3,000 sq. ft.

2,700 - 3,900 sq. ft.

2,500 - 4,700 sq. ft.

3,000 - 4,900 sq. ft.

3,400 - 5,600 sq. ft.

2

5 Westheimer Lakes (281) 693-4677 (281) 693-0150 (281) 347-1020 (281) 693-4692 (281) 693-4502

from the $210s - $270s 2,100 - 2,900 sq. ft.

(832) 222-2120

6 The Reserve at Brazos Town Center from the $270s - $370s 2,500 - 4,700 sq. ft.

(281) 238-0770

7

Pine Mill Ranch from the $240s - $550s 2,200 - 4,100 sq. ft.

2,500 - 4,700 sq. ft.

2,900 - 4,900 sq. ft.

3,400 - 5,600 sq. ft.

(281) 391-7171 (281) 347-7771 (281) 347-2121 (281) 392-4322

from the $240s - $340s 2,100 - 3,600 sq. ft.

(281) 344-0258

8 Aliana

from the $270s - $380s 2,100 - 2,800 sq. ft.

(281) 207-9002 2,500 - 3,100 sq. ft.

(281) 207-6656

3 Cinco Ranch from the $320s - $350s 2,500 - 3,000 sq. ft.

(281) 693-0022

9 Riverstone

from the $330s - $530s 2,200 - 3,400 sq. ft.

(281) 778-2100 3,000 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(281) 778-3840

4 Cross Creek Ranch

from the $320s - $500s 2,500 - 3,400 sq. ft.

(281) 633-2555 2,800 - 3,800 sq. ft.

(281) 238-0919 3,000 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(281) 633-8500

RiverPark West

10 Sienna Plantation

PERRY OMES.com

from the $350s - $640s 2,500 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(281) 778-1544 3,400 - 5,600 sq. ft.

(281) 778-7800

11 Creekmont from the $190s - $330s 1,600 - 3,100 sq. ft.

(281) 431-8600 2,500 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(281) 972-9210

12 Southlake from the $270s - $650s 2,500 - 4,700 sq. ft.

(713) 340-0141 3,000 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(713) 340-2019 4,200 - 5,300 sq. ft.

(713) 340-2019

10 1 1463

4

2 3

6 W

1093 1464

99

13 Southern Trails

8

723

14 Shadow Creek Ranch

6 59

59

90 521

90

from the $210s - $400s 1,800 - 3,000 sq. ft.

(713) 436-7880 2,400 - 3,600 sq. ft.

(713) 436-8751 3,000 - 4,900 sq. ft.

(713) 436-1550

Over 20 Communities in the Houston Area!

610

5

from the $280s - $410s 2,500 - 4,100 sq. ft.

(713) 413-8882 3,000 - 4,200 sq. ft.

(713) 413-8882

T PAR ES K

7

RT BEND FO

14 12 13 518

9 6 10 11

288

Apple, the Apple logo and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Offers, plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (12/13)

JANUARY 8, 2014 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

NEWS

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever

Sienna’s Panther Lacrosse

Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in Texas and the oldest sport in North America. It was played by Native Americans across much of the continent since before Columbus. Today, the sight of children sprinting across green fields cradling lacrosse sticks is not an uncommon one, especially not in local Sienna Plantation, and certainly not to head coach and co-founder of the Panthers Lacrosse Club, Glenn Reitman.

Reitman says “Lacrosse is growing quickly in Texas because it’s fast paced, exciting, and is a lot of fun.” Others have commented that due to the athleticism required, it is attracting some of the best junior athletes in the area. The Sienna Panthers Club is one of the most rapidly expanding clubs in the state with over 200 players including

believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

www.bibleliterature.com Foundation Repair Remodeling & More

A Happy Home Begins with a Solid Foundation!

281.397.2299 LevelProHomeService.com

Free income tax preparation a newly formed girl’s team.

The league is run entirely by devoted volunteers consisting of 30 coaches and three administrators who work hard to ensure that the league runs smoothly and that it provides an excellent experience for the players. In addition to the fun and excitement Lacrosse fosters,

it creates other opportunities in the form of college scholarships and even professional careers.

One of the best aspects of the Club is that it encourages its players and families to be involved in the “lacrosse family”.

This fosters a sense of unity, community, and instills in the players a sense of honor, pride,

The United Way of Greater Houston in partnership with Neighborhood Centers, Inc. will be providing FREE income tax preparation beginning Jan. 23 at the United Way Fort Bend County Service Center at 10435 Greenbough Drive in Stafford. Tax Center operating hours are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m. – 7 sportsmanship and hard work. p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Clients are also able to take When you combine the ex- advantage of United Way SAVE, a tax time matched savings citement and challenges of the program that allows clients to save $100-$1,000 of their refund sport with the care and devotion in a savings account until January 2015 and receive a 25% match being poured into it, one can on their savings. Clients are accepted as walk-ins on first-come readily appreciate why so many first serve basis. Must meet income requirements. Call 281-207families fall in love with the 2300 or 2-1-1 Texas/United Way help line for more information. sport.Visit www.1-extradollar. org.

—By Lauren Guzaldo

Sugar Land breast cancer support group “Breast Friends” to meet Jan. 14 The University of Texas MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land sponsors the Breast Friends Focus and Support group for Fort Bend and surrounding communities, and the next meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 14.

The breast cancer support group is hosted at the St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital campus and takes place on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Meetings are open to all breast cancer patients or sur-

vivors, regardless of where they are receiving or received treatment.

Breast Friends facilitator Lori Lord, MSN, RN, a nurse navigator at the M.D. Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land, schedules speakers for the monthly meetings who support, uplift and empower patients as they go through this challenging time.

After the brief presentation, a group discussion follows as well as a question and answer period and light refreshments.

Sugar Land to address 2013 accomplishments, vision for the future Sugar Land will partner with the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce to present a State of the City Address focusing on the City’s 2013 accomplishments.

This is the sixth year that the City has presented an annual summary of activities to citizens.

The community is invited to attend the program to be held Jan. 24 at the Sugar Land Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, located at 16090 City Walk at the corner of U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6.

Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m., followed at 8 a.m. with a dynamic presentation of 2013 Sugar Land achievements. Some of these include the following: *In fiscal year 2013, Sugar Land announced several significant relocations, including Fortune 500 firms that operate internationally as well as other national and local firms. These combined projects will result in more than $23 million in new capital investment, 1,225 new and 150 retained jobs for the City and more than 266,000 square feet of newly constructed or newly leased space. *Sugar Land approved a design contract and a construction manager at risk agreement for a new performing arts center.

The approximate 6,500-seat venue will be located on a portion of 38.5 acres of City-own property in the Telfair commercial district, southeast of U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard. *The City’s new $69 million

surface water treatment plant near the intersection of Voss and Burney Road was completed. The plant has the distinction of the being the largest capital improvement project ever completed by the City. *Baseball attendance at Constellation Field exceeded projections and was the highest in the Atlantic League. In 2013, attendance for baseball and nonbaseball events was 55 percent higher than originally projected with more than 478,000 attendees. Constellation Field realized a significant increase in usage for special events in 2013 with more than 88,000 attendees for non-baseball events that included festivals, charity events, sports tournaments, company events and corporate meetings.

A feasibility study performed in 2009 projected average annual attendance for ballgames and non-baseball events of 300,000 visitors. Using this benchmark study data, City planners forecast an annual benefit to the City of $7.7 million or a return of $169 million to the economy over 30 years.

Priorities during 2014 will include a continued development of a performing arts center; implementation of 2013 voterapproved bond projects (i.e., hike and bike trails, Brazos River Park and a festival site); drainage and land-use updates; and the creation of a Sugar Land Fire Department ambulance transport system.

Register for the State of the City Address at www.fortbendchamber.com.

MD Anderson physicians from the Regional Care Center in Sugar Land attend each meeting to answer questions.

Meetings take place in the first floor conference room of the St. Luke’s Sugar Land campus at 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway.

No preregistration is required.

For more information contact Lori Lord at 281-566-1857.

The MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land, located on the campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital,

provides specialized surgical, medical and radiation oncology services; outpatient chemotherapy; social work counseling; and onsite pharmacy, nutrition, pain management and laboratory services.

For more information about the event, visit www.Facebook. com/MDAndersonSugarLand.

To learn more about the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land, visit www.

MDAnderson.org/SugarLand.

Sugar Land Land Use Forum begins Jan. 15 The Land Use Forum -- a six-part speakers’ series highlighting land-use topics such as housing choices, development of activity centers and redevelopment of aging commercial areas in Sugar Land -- is scheduled to begin Jan. 15.

The series is open to the public and will include discussions important to the City’s ongoing efforts to update its Land Use Plan, a document that provides policy guidance and identifies future efforts necessary to accomplish the City’s land use goals and objectives.

The first three sessions will be held at Sugar Land City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard Drive, at 6 p.m., and will cover the following topics: .A Changing City: Demographics and the Marketplace - Jan. 15 .Attracting Employers to Sugar Land - Jan. 29 .Town Square and Beyond: Creating Places for Community - Feb. 12 The presentations will highlight areas important to the near- and long-term future of Sugar Land and will include featured speakers, community roundtable discussions and opportunities to provide input.

Details about future forums covering “Housing Choices for a Successful City,” “Mobility and Land Use” and “Sustaining Vibrant Communities Through Redevelopment” will be announced in the near future.

For more information about the Land Use Plan update and the upcoming Land Use Forum series, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/ landuseplan or email longrangeplanning@sugarlandtx.gov.

Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc 101 Southwestern Blvd, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478-3535 PH (281)277-7800 FAX (281)277-7801 basil@texansinsure.com

Clean out your closets for Elkins High School VIPS/PTO Elkins HS VIPS/PTO is holding a clothing drive fundraiser.

Clean out your closets and drop off your items at the Lowes in Missouri City parking lot from 9 a.m-1p.m on Saturday, Jan. 18.

Donate any condition USED or like new clothing (all sizes), towels, sheets, pillowcases, comforters, purses, belts, bags, small toys, stuffed animals, any fabric or material. The items will be sold to a textile recycling company to raise funds to beautify the Elkins HS patio and to purchase a digital marquee. Elkins PTO/VIPS is an organization working to help make Elkins HS the best it can be for our community and our students. Items can be donated before Jan. 18 at Elkins HS during school hours. To find additional early drop off locations or for more information, visit www.elkinsvips.org

Aggie Moms scholarship application

Scholarship Applications are available to be filled out and submitted by Feb. 10, 2014. A transcript which includes the Fall 2013 classes must be ordered from the University. Applications can be found on our website: http:// fortbendmoms.aggienetwork.com.

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, Missouri City will offer seniors in the Please contact Barbara Nachlas 281-242-7743 Or Debbie Cortez area a chance to enjoy a day of fun at the Coushatta Casino Resort. 281-491-5287. Next meeting is on Jan. 13, at 7 p.m. at the Imperial Citizens interested in participating in the City’s annual Senior Park recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way, Sugar Land.

Field Trip will meet at the Recreation and Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr., at 7:30 a.m. and will return at 8 p.m. The transportation cost for this exciting trip is $10, and interested citizens New Year, New Location can sign up at the Recreation and Tennis Center.

Jan. 9, Sugar Land Marriott in Town Square The Coushatta Casino Resort, located in Kinder, Louisiana, feaLocated 16090 City Walk (59 @ HWY 6) tures a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor, six fabulous restaurants, Burning Pear Restaurant. live entertainment and more. For more information, visit www.

Special guest speaker Gaylyn Devine coushattacasinoresort.com.

National Secretary Treasurer.

All trip participants are responsible for their expenses and the Networking 5:30 6:30 pm trip will require walking short distances at the casino.

Meeting 6:30 8:00 pm For more information, visit the City website: www.missouriciSpecial guest speaker Gaylyn Devine tytx.gov.

National ABWA Secretary Treasurer.

Contact: Donna_Carlisle@yahoo.com

Senior Field Trip to Coushatta Casino Resort on Feb. 25

ABWA Fort Bend Chapter

(281)277-7800 Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc 101 Southwestern Blvd, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478-3535 basil@texansinsure.com

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014

Opinion Dawn Zell Wright challenges John Healey in Republican Primary Dawn Zell Wright, a community leader in Fort Bend County, devoted Republican, and experienced attorney, has announces her campaign for the Office of District Attorney.

Dawn and her husband, Greg, are residents of Fort Bend County and proud parents to Rebekah, (age 8) and Nicholas, (age 5).

Dawn is the principal of Zell Wright Law Offices, PLLC in Richmond, Texas, practicing Criminal Law, including felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, and post-conviction law.

In addition, Wright has more than 10 years of experience handling Human Resources and Labor/Employment matters. Accordingly, Wright is up for the challenges of managing an office of over 100 employees and making the tough, but appropriate decisions that have to be made as the head of an agency tasked with prosecuting those who threaten the safety of the community we all enjoy.

“It’s about justice and fair-

Wright ness,” said Wright.

“Holding the Office of District Attorney requires being tough on crime, but that toughness must be met with fairness. Currently, the District Attorney’s Office has sat by while other counties have been proactive in ensuring accused citizens’ rights. For example, when John Healey was notified by The Texas Department of Public Safety that one of its analysts falsified thousands of reports, calling into question hundreds of Fort Bend County convictions, he did nothing while the District Attorneys in our adjoining counties took

Deron Harrington to seek FBISD School Board at large position 4 Deron Harrington announced on Jan. 6 that he plans to seek election for Position 4 of the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees.

Harrington said, “As a Trustee, I will work tirelessly to fully reconnect the district back to the values held by the true owners of this district, --- this community. In addition, I will proactively work to foster trust and teamwork while performing this position with a servant’s heart.

I am well aware of the significant challenges facing FBISD but I firmly believe we can unlock the potential of this school district and I am fully committed to working on that.”

Harrington, 45, has been married to his wife, Dede, over twenty-two years. They have lived in Sienna Plantation over fourteen years.

They have two children who are attending FBISD and one daughter who is a recent graduate of FBISD. Dede Harrington is an educator and currently teaches Kindergarten within FBISD. Deron further stated “The very nature of a school board

Harrington election calls on the community to perform its solemn responsibility to elect well qualified and genuine candidates to carry out productive oversight that guides our professional educators for the benefit of our children and this community.

I am respectfully requesting the voters of this community for the opportunity to contribute in that necessary and vital role.”

Deron Harrington is an Attorney and Certified Public Accountant. He has twentythree years of professional experience serving in executive and financial roles within five FORTUNE 500® organizations, in public accounting, and in the practice of law. He founded Harrington, Carbone & Allison, LLP, a CPA firm specializing in tax compliance and operates the Law Office of Deron R. Harrington.

Mr. Harrington holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law. He is a member of numerous professional organizations and has served nine years in the U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard. Deron and Dede, have served, and continue to serve, in various pro-bono, volunteer, and faith-based roles in support of children.

To learn more about Deron Harrington visit http://www. deron4fbisd.com. The election for the FBISD Board of Trustees is Saturday, May 10. Early voting is April 28 through May 6.

FOUNDATION REPAIR Lifetime Warranty

ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS & MORE! FINANCING • 0 DOWN • Low Payments!

Call Today: 713.797.8403

Free Estimates

champion remodeling.net

great measures to right the wrong those harmed by the falsified reports suffered, including long prison sentences where no credible evidence existed.

“Hiding evidence, selective prosecution and a ‘conviction at any cost’ mentality is what led to the wrongful conviction and 25 years of incarceration Michael Morton endured in Williamson County.

If we don’t take immediate action, our county risks repeating the injustice bestowed upon Mr. Morton.

“While fairness is a principle of utmost importance in meting out justice, the rights of victims and the cost to the taxpayers must also be kept in mind.

Right now, the wheels of justice are at an almost stand-still.

“It’s not unusual for a defendant awaiting trial in Fort Bend County to spend at least two years in our County Jail, a cost borne by the taxpayers, and agonizingly endured by crime victims. Trials should be had in a year or less. Justice must be served swiftly and efficiently to ensure our citizens’ safety and prosperity.

“Our county needs a District Attorney who ensures the integrity of the prosecutorial process,” Wright said. “That process requires the discretion to demand the stiffest sentences for our most dangerous criminals while balancing the need for fairness and understanding for those who make mistakes.

I’m running for District Attorney because it is time for the District Attorney’s Office to be fair, balanced and dedicated to protecting the citizens of Fort Bend County.”

INSURANCE Shopping for homeowners insurance

By BASIL HOUSEWRIGHT, JR. Today more than ever, Texans have many options when it comes to buying homeowners insurance. It pays to take advantage of companies competing for your business and shop around to find the best policy to meet your insurance needs.

These tips will help you do just that: Shop Around Before you sign on the dotted line, get quotes from several providers and compare premiums. You may ask friends and colleagues for referrals or enlist the help of an Independent Insurance Agent who can present policy and price options from several companies.

Remember to consider more than cost when choosing an insurer. Policy coverage and customer service should be a priority as well.

Determine Your Coverage Needs You should buy enough coverage to avoid a major financial loss if your home and belongings are completely destroyed and have to be replaced or rebuilt. Since construction costs change, homeowners should reassess “replacement costs” annually to be sure they’re fully covered. Buying a policy which has too low of coverage limits to cover the current replacement cost of your home could lead to a financial disaster if you suffer a major loss. Avoid Insurance Agents selling very low coverage limits, as this is very unprofessional advice.

Rethink Your Deductible A deductible is the predetermined amount you pay

Housewright before the insurance company starts to pay for your loss. To keep your premiums as low as possible, you should choose the highest deductible you can afford in case of a loss.

Ask About Discounts Many companies offer discounts if you proactively protect your home against a loss.

You may get a lower premium if you have a home security system, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers or an impact resistant roof. You may also qualify for a discount if you buy your auto, flood and homeowners insurance from the same provider.

Know the Cost Factors for Insurance Premiums Several factors can affect the cost of your premium, including the county where you live, the level of fire protection available such as the distance to the closest fire station, the construction type and condition of your home, and current construction costs. Severe Texas weather, fraud, and the rising cost of lawsuits also drive up the cost of insurance in Texas.

Maintain Good Credit Credit information is one

of many factors used by most insurers to determine insurance premiums because of the proven relationship between credit and the risk of claimed losses. It is important to maintain good credit and monitor your credit history.

You can get a copy of your credit report by contacting the three main credit bureaus: Experian www.experian.com Equifax www.equifax.com TransUnion www.transunion. com Make Common Sense Claims Once you’ve chosen an insurer, remember that insurance is for major losses, not regular maintenance of your home. Taking care of your house and using common sense with claims will keep your premiums in check.

Ask for Help Ask for help from local Independent Insurance Agents and their customer service representatives who are there to help you choose the best policy for your home. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, as your home is most likely your largest single investment so it is wise to insure it properly.

Basil Housewright is manager of Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc a local Independent Insurance Agency operating in Sugar Land since 1991. He can be reached at (281) 277-7800, Fax (281) 277-7801, E-Mail – basil@ texansinsure.com.

For additional insurance info visit www.texansinsure.com.

GUEST COLUMN

A business perspective on ‘Affordable healthcare’

By BARBARA J. CARLSON Some ponder, “So what happened that Obamacare became such a mess? What went wrong?”

Others say, “It’s a success!”

From a business perspective, well, it was a failure from the start.

Where did the CBO collect its data as to the future decade costs?

The CBO has grossly forecasted inaccurate numbers for, well, far too long with no accountability.

The essential planning never happened in instituting government’s historically massive “business model” called Obamacare.

No one weighed the importance of Project Management and its success in the business arena. Corporations are forced to consider Enterprise Environmental Factors, such as government regulations that must be adhered to while this “project” never did.

Critical questions were never asked in the initial planning process.

Critical questions should have been utilized from what is known as “Expert Judgment” in the Project Management world.

Key Factors: (1) We had the opportunity in our very own backyard to reach out to the smartest software gurus and technology wizards for this project, yet not one of them was utilized.

Instead, an outside company (with a failed record) was given our country’s costliest and most intellectual project.

The key stakeholders (with the most at risk and investment) would have not accepted their private data not only to be potentially distributed on a global scale but also now a

Carlson haven for hackers and identity theft because of multiple security breaches that weren’t put into place with 10-year-old software.

Because of a total lack of expertise, communication and an experienced Project Manager, this project has only begun to allow “transparency” into a problem that will evolve into crisis mode.

(2) Insurance experts weren’t approached. Any insurance expert would have advised that basing the costliest model on the youth funding this project (or dependency) was, well, a failed objective from the start.

Industrywide actuarial data proves why the youth’s rates are low. They are often the healthiest and thus rewarded for their health (least risk), but they also consider themselves the “invincible” population and don’t take insurance seriously during their youth.

Expecting this demographic to “pick up” the bulk of the cost of the most mismanaged and costliest government project was, well, Project Management 101 failure from the start.

(3) Fuzzy Math at its worst.

Key stakeholders would have demanded accountability ear-

ly on. If a supposed 30M were to now have healthcare (which is already covered under Medicaid) but 5M have now lost their coverage and doctors are already fleeing their practices or downsizing their client base, the project model is grossly failing. Objectives are not being met.

A project that runs in negative numbers is doomed to fail.

Shifting the CBO’s $17T “estimate” of Medicare dollars (paying insured) to now Medicaid (unpaid noninsured) in unfunded liabilities over the next decade, well, is beyond absurd fiscal irresponsibility and has created a failed project. A successful project in the business world ends positively. It should come as no surprise that Medicaid will reach crisis level.

During the entire Project Management cycle, the key stakeholders—the American public in this instance—are required to be apprised of the risks they have “invested” in the project.

Not only did Congress not write the entire law before it was passed but didn’t bother to read it, digest its devastating effect and broadcast such to all of its shareholders, but then its Project Managers (White House and Kathleen Sebelius and her staff) refused to keep the American people apprised of what was transpiring.

In retrospect, if this project had been run as a business model in the real world, this project would have been shut down long ago because it was failing from the start.

Honesty and integrity are key characteristics that a Project Manager must possess in order to build the trust and

have an excellent working relationship with its key stakeholders.

Proper testing before launch wasn’t conducted, multiple meetings over the entire three years were void, communication was void and hiring and working with experts never occurred.

If a Project Manager had testified before the Energy and Commerce Committee, calling for an investigation of her very own project, well, in the business world, Kathleen Sebelius would no longer be an employable Project Manager.

The Project Manager’s continual “extensions” of a project date is inexcusable and virtually guarantees its failure. Key stakeholders in the business world would have demanded accountability long ago.

What key stakeholder in any single business model would authorize such a massive project with the worst mismanagement possible, exorbitant costs of $400M so far in getting a website up and halfway running, and a running tab that is still murky with the end result that their rates already have tripled (and will continue to escalate) and the key stakeholder will no longer be in charge of his/her medical decisions with a mandated annual cost?

Every key stakeholder in the business world would fire the Project Manager and its entire staff immediately, lawsuits would be swirling with possible criminal charges and demand for repayment of their investments would be fulfilled.

This failed project needed to be shut down long ago.

For comments, contact Barbara J. Carlson at bcarlson@ fbindependent.com.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014 • Page 5

News Ryan Johnson, Ambassador for Alliance defending freedom to speak at Spirit of Freedom meeting

Reward offered for catching dog killers Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers, Inc. will pay a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of two subjects who shot and killed a dog on New Year’s Eve. At 3:40 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013, deputies were called to an address in the 19200 block of Beechnut St. in the Richmond area concerning the shooting death of the caller’s dog.

The dog’s owner said he was walking his 4-year-old Labrador Retriever along a retention pond in the undeveloped area when two people approached the man and his dog on four-wheel ATVs. He said they were not more than 10 feet away from him, but were close to the dog. He was stunned when the driver of the red four-wheeler pulled a silver-colored gun and shot the dog. The dog was only wounded and was whining, and then the suspect shot the animal one more time.

The two suspects sped past the dog’s owner and took off toward Beechnut Street.

The dog’s owner loaded his pet into his truck, but the Lab died on the way home.

The first suspect is described as wearing a red jacket and a red helmet and riding a red ATV. The second suspect was wearing a camouflage jacket and a green helmet and his ATV was green. The dog’s owner could not determine race or age since the two suspects’ faces were covered.

However, he said both had full riding gear, including riding boots made for ATVs. Information which leads to the apprehension and filing of charges on the suspects involved could earn a reward of up to $5,000.

Call Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office at 281-3414665, Fort Bend Crime Stoppers, Inc. at 281-342-TIPS (8477) or text plus the tip to CRIMES (274637). Tips also can be submitted online at www.fortbend-tx-crimestoppers.org. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.

The Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s Club will host Ryan Johnson. The meeting will take place Friday, January 17th, at Sugar Creek Baptist Church Chapel at 13213 SW Freeway, Sugar Land from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. An RSVP is required by Wednesday, Jan 15th. The cost of lunch is $7 (cash or check payable that morning). Please specify if you plan to eat or just attend to info@spiritoffreedomwomen.com or call or text President Debbie Fancher at 281-543-3195.

Ryan Johnson serves as an ambassador for Alliance Defending Freedom ministry. Alliance Defending Freedom is a servant ministry building an alliance to keep the door open for the spread of the Gospel by transforming the legal system and advocating for religious liberty, the sanctity of life, and marriage and family. Recognizing the need for a strong, coordinated legal defense against growing attacks on religious freedom, more than 30

Baptist Church approximately 14 years. He also serves as a Precinct Chairman for the Republican Party in Fort Bend County. During his tenure, he has served on various committees and chaired the Voter Registration and Outreach Committee. He has also at-

Johnson prominent Christian leaders launched Alliance Defending Freedom in 1994. Over the past 18 years, this unique legal ministry has brought together thousands of Christian attorneys and like-minded organizations that work tirelessly to advocate for the right of people to freely live out their faith in America and around the world. Mr. Johnson has been married for 21 years to Valerie and they have three children. He and his family have been members of Sugar Creek

tended several State Conventions as a delegate.

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

NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 400TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on the 19TH day of DECEMBER, 2013, by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND COUNTY VS. JAMES BELL, ET AL in Cause # 13- DCV-205316 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 4th day of February, 2014, which is the fIrst Tuesday of said month, at the Fort Bend County Justice Center Parking Garage, 1418 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, Texas, Level I of the Parking Garage at the South End, West Corner, near Stairway “B� of the Courthouse of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 7835000070090901 LOT 9 IN BLOCK 7 OF THE CITY OF ROSENBERG, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME ‘P’, PAGE 16 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on 20TH December, 2013 as the property of GERTRUDE DAVIS AKA GERTRUDE FREELON DAVIS, CLEMONS DAVIS AKA CLIMON DAVIS, JAMES BELL to satisfy a judgment amounting to $1,081.13 representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of CITY OF ROSENBERG, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT, LAMAR CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND. GIVEN UNDER MY HAND THIS 20th day of December, 2013.

A.J. DORR, CONSTABLE , PRECINCT 1, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By CPL. MIKE BEARD, DEPUTY

Investing club meeting The BetterInvesting Houston Chapter Southwest Model Club will meet Thursday, Jan. 16, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The meeting will be held in the HEB community room (530 Hwy. 6, Sugar Land, University Blvd. and Highway 6) The Model Club is an operating club where members of the club will make decisions every month on buys-holdssells, as well as provide educational programs. The club will be led/assisted by directors of the BI Houston Chapter. Additionally, it is open to all BI members, as well as the public. BetterInvesting was founded in 1951 with the mission to provide a program of sound investment information, education, and support that helps create successful lifetime investors. Anyone who has an interest in building wealth is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Joe Parks: joep@bivab.betterinvesting.net or visit www.betterinvesting.org.

NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 400TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on the 19TH day of DECEMBER, 2013, by the Clerk thereof, in the case of NEEDVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT VS. SALOMON HERNANDEZ, ET AL in Cause # 12- DCV-200255 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 4th day of February, 2014, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the Fort Bend County Justice Center Parking Garage, 1418 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, Texas, Level I of the Parking Garage at the South End, West Corner, near Stairway “B� of the Courthouse of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 0449000000020906 11.25 ACRES OF LAND OUT OF A 94.649 ACRE TRACT OF LAND IN THE DAY LAND AND CATTLE COMPANY SURVEY, ABSTRACT 449, AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 2569, PAGE 1365 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS AND IN THE C. LONGLEY SURVEY ABSTRACT 739.

Levied on 20TH December, 2013 as the property of SALOMON HERNANDEZ, YOLANDA HERNANDEZ, to satisfy a judgment amounting to $3,547.72 representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of NEEDVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, WHARTON COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND FORT BEND COUNTY LATERAL ROAD AND FLOOD CONTROL. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. GIVEN UNDER MY HAND THIS 20th day of December, 2013.

A.J. DORR, CONSTABLE , PRECINCT 1, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By CPL. MIKE BEARD, DEPUTY

2013 WINTER MINI-TERM & SPRING 2014 SEMESTER REGISTRATION Winter Mini-Term begins December 16 (Register now through December 15) Spring semester classes begin January 21, 2014 (Register now through January 20)

A Program for Everyone Core classes in English, Math, History, Science, Speech, Humanities, Visual & Performing Arts, Government, Kinesiology, and Social Sciences "TTPDJBUF PG "SUT EFHSFF t "TTPDJBUF PG "SUT JO 5FBDIJOH EFHSFF t "TTPDJBUF PG "QQMJFE 4DJFODF EFHSFFT $FSUJĂśDBUF $FSUJĂśDBUJPO 1SPHSBNT t %JTUBODF -FBSOJOH $PVSTFT 'JOBODJBM "JE $PVOTFMJOH t %VBM BOE $PODVSSFOU &OSPMMNFOU

"TTPDJBUF PG "SUT %FHSFF with emphasis of study in :

Agriculture Art Behavioral Sciences Biology Business Administration Chemistry Computer Science Criminal Justice Drama Engineering English General Studies Geology Kinesiology Mathematics Music Nursing (Pre-Baccalaureate) Physics Social Sciences Speech

"TTPDJBUF PG "SUT %FHSFF JO 5FBDIJOH

"TTPDJBUF PG "QQMJFE 4DJFODF %FHSFFT $FSUJÜDBUFT Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration & Electrical Technology* Automotive Technology*†Computer Science: t $*4$0 3PVUFS /FUXPSLJOH t $PNQVUFS 1SPHSBNNJOHp t $PNQVUFS 4JNVMBUJPO and Game Development†t %JHJUBM .FEJBp t 1$ 5FDIOJDBM 4VQQPSU t /FUXPSL "ENJOJTUSBUJPOp Cosmetology* Dental Hygiene†Early Childhood*†Electronics Engineering Technology†Emergency Medical Technology*†Engineering Design*†t "SDIJUFDUVSBM %FTJHO t $PNQVUFS "JEFE Drafting* t $POTUSVDUJPO .BOBHFNFOUp Fire Academy* )FBMUI *OGPSNBUJPO 5FDIOPMPHZp

Human Services*†Law Enforcement†Nuclear Power Technology†: t /PO MJDFOTFE 0QFSBUPS Specialty* t &MFDUSJDBM 5FDIOJDJBO Specialty* t *OTUSVNFOUBUJPO BOE Controls Technician Specialty* Nursing: t "TTPDJBUF %FHSFF "%/ p t -7/ "%/ 5SBOTJUJPOp t 7PDBUJPOBM /VSTJOH 0óDF "ENJOJTUSBUJPO p Paralegal Studies†Physical Therapist Assistant†Police Academy* Process Technology†Radiologic Technology†Surgical Technology* Welding Technology* * Certificate program †Associate of Applied Science Degree

8IBSUPO t 4VHBS -BOE t 3JDINPOE t #BZ $JUZ t &M $BNQP t 1BMBDJPT

8$+$ XDKD FEV

W Wharton County CJC Junior College

WCJC is an EOE Institution.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE 1/2/3 38CB 38CB First Colony SL•$1,499,000•4/31/2

1/2/3 4CC 4CC Riverstone SL•$1,199,000•5/5+11/2

Anita Milne

Knowledgeable! Experienced!

Hardworking!

Competitive!

Action Oriented!

MilneAnita@yahoo.com

281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group

First Colony Telfair SL•$1,050,000•5/4 Telfair/3 SL•$1,050,000•5/4 /3 SL•$179,000•2/2/Condo 1/2

7514T

1/2

7514T

Meadows Place • Meadowhollow • 4/2/2 Meadows Place • Dorrance • 4/2/2 Meadows CovingtonPlace•Sturdivant•4/2.5/2 West • Greenway • 4/3/2

4144G

Also for Lease

Reduced

$156,000

$154,900 $154,500 Sharpstown Parkglen • Whittingham • La Rouche • 3/2/2 4/2/2

For All Your Real Estate Needs Call Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor (281) 414-8400 www.ArleneRolsen.com Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library will present an “Introduction to Zumba Gold Fitness” on Saturday, January 18, beginning at 11:00 a.m, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Zumba instructor Cyndia Rodriguez will present a basic introduction and demonstration of this popular new Latininspired dance-fitness program.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 for Texana Plantation, Section 4, Partial Replat No. 1, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas.

Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing. You may contact Chris Kalkomey with Charles Kalkomey Surveying Inc at 281-3422033 for information prior to the hearing.

Meadows Place • Meadowhollow • 4/2/2 Meadows Place • Brighton • 3/2.5/2

SOLD

SOLD

$139,000 $99,000

Reduced

$159,900

SPECIAL EXCEPTION 4114 MEADOW EDGE DRIVE SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 4114 MEADOW EDGE DRIVE, LOT 22, BLOCK 1, WILLIAMS GLEN SECTION ONE, IN THE STANDARD SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R-1) DISTRICT. ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT WILL HOLD ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING 5:00 P.M., JANUARY 22, 2014 AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER; 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH. DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING OFFICE (281) 275-2218 OR BY EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. Vicinity Map:

NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 400TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on the 19TH day of DECEMBER, 2013, by the Clerk thereof, in the case of CITY OF ROSENBERG VS. CAVAZOS,IGNACIO, ET AL in Cause # 08- DCV162755 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 4th day of February, 2014, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the Fort Bend County Justice Center Parking Garage, 1418 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, Texas, Level I of the Parking Garage at the South End, West Corner, near Stairway “B” of the Courthouse of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 7835000380130901 LOT THIRTEEN (13), IN BLOCK THIRTY-EIGHT (38), IN THE TOWN OF ROSENBERG, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID TOWN SHOWN OF RECORD IN VOLUME ‘P’, PAGE 146 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. TRACT 2: GEO: 7835000380140901 LOTS FOURTEEN (14) AND FIFTEEN (15) IN BLOCK THIRTY-EIGHT (38) OF THE CITY OF ROSENBERG, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID CITY OF ROSENBERG, APPEARING OF RECORD IN VOLUME P, PAGE 146 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on 20TH December, 2013 as the property of IGNACIO CAVAZOS, LUPE CAVAZOS, VIVIAN GUTIERREZ, SANDRA PEREZ, LORNA DANACHES, LEONARDO PEREZ, to satisfy a judgment amounting to $21,355.93 representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of CITY OF ROSENBERG, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT, LAMAR CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND FORT BEND COUNTY LATERAL FLOOD CONTROL. GIVEN UNDER MY HAND THIS 20th day of December, 2013.

A.J. DORR, CONSTABLE , PRECINCT 1, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By CPL. MIKE BEARD, DEPUTY

LEGAL NOTICE REQUESTS FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

Q14-025 – PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RELATED TO ROADWAY, DRAINAGE AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PERMANENT ZONING 29.3 ACRES IMPERIAL BOULEVARD AND STADIUM DRIVE PERMANENT ZONING 29.3 ACRES NORTHWEST CORNER OF IMPERIAL BOULEVARD AND STADIUM DRIVE FROM PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (PD) DISTRICT (GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN) TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (PD) DISTRICT (FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN – IMPERIAL BALLPARK DISTRICT TRACT E).

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION WILL HOLD ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING 6:30 P.M., JANUARY 23, 2014 AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED REZONING SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER; 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH. DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED REZONING MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING OFFICE (281) 2752218 OR BY EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. Vicinity Map:

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 CAUSE NO. 12-CCV-049529 THE STATE OF TEXAS TO: MOSES TAKU AYUK, DEFENDANT, GREETING: YOU (AND EACH OF YOU) ARE HEREBY COMMANDED TO APPEAR before the Honorable county Court at Law 3 of Fort Bend County, Texas, at the Courthouse being located at the Fort Bend County Justice center, 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, in the City of Richmond, Fort Bend county, Texas, by filing a written answer at or before 10 o’ clock A.M. of the Monday next after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being the 6th day of February 2014, to Plaintiff ’s Petition filed in said Court, on the 19th day of November 2012 in this Cause, numbered 12-CCV-049529 on the docket of said Court and styled: Lucrecia Ruiz vs Moses Taku Ayuk allegations as shown in said petition now on file in the Fort Bend County Clerk’s Office.

The officer executing this Writ shall promptly serve the same, according to requirements of law and the mandates hereof, and make due return as the law directs.

ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at office, this the 19th day of December, 2013.

DIANNE WILSON, COUNTY CLERK, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 30 JACKSON , SUITE 101 RICHMOND, TEXAS 77469-3108

By Lydia Esparza, Deputy 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 next Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.

The name and address of the Plaintiff ’s attorney is: Henry Ha Trinh Dinh Law Firm PC 7001 Corporate Dr., Suite 280 Houston, TX 77036 281-879-0447

$157,500

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

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 16, 2014 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

$159,900 $172,500

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 Elections to be held on March 4, 2014, will be tested on January 16, 2014 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 elecciones primarias el 4 de Marzo del 2014 se probara el 16 de Enero del 2014 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 NOMINATION OF NOBLE DRILLING SERVICES, INC FOR TEXAS ENTERPRISE ZONE PROGRAM

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SPECIAL EXCEPTION 1502 MEADOW GLADE COURT SPECIAL EXCEPTION TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT, 1502 MEADOW GLADE COURT, LOT 34, BLOCK 2, MEADOW LAKES SECTION ONE, IN THE STANDARD SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R-1) DISTRICT. ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT WILL HOLD ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING 5:00 P.M., JANUARY 22, 2014 AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER; 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH. DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED SPECIAL EXCEPTION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING OFFICE (281) 275-2218 OR BY EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. Vicinity Map:

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Sugar Land, Texas, will hold a Public Hearing to receive and hear all persons desiring to be heard on an Ordinance nominating Noble Drilling Services, Inc. 13135 South Dairy Ashford Suite 800, Sugar Land, Texas 77478 for the Texas Enterprise Zone Program. Tax rebates, grants, enhanced municipal services, job training services, streamlined permitting, promotional and marketing services, and other incentives may be discussed at this hearing. Interested persons shall be entitled to speak and present evidence for or against the nomination.

ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH DURING CITY COUNCIL MEETING, 6:00 P.M., JANUARY 21, 2014, AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED NOMINATION SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED NOMINATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS, 77479, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 8:00 O’CLOCK A.M. TO 5:00 O’CLOCK P.M., OR CALL (281) 275-2229 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS MEADOWCROFT BOULEVARD PAVING AND INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS 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: CIP PROJECT NAME: Meadowcroft Boulevard Paving and Intersection Improvements CIP PROJECT NUMBER: ST0802 LOCATION OF WORK: Intersection of Meadowcroft Boulevard and First Colony Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX 77479 Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained for free by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com or plans are available by contacting Jason Poscovsky, Contracts Manager, jposcovsky@sugarlandtx.gov 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 30, 2014, 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., Thursday, January 16, 2014, Brazos Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, TX 77477.

Questions regarding this bid must be received by Monday, January 20, 2014 on or before 5:00 P.M. Please contact Al Flores, P.E. at Dannenbaum Engineering Corporation, (713) 520-9570. al.flores@dannenbaum.com.

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 ninety (90) calendar days after the bid opening date and time.

Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF L H PARKER, 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being February 17, 2014, 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 n Richmond, Texas, and was filed DECEMBER 26, 2103. It bears cause No. 13-DCV-211553 and is styled: Raquel Hernandez vs All Unknown Heirs of L H Parker, Deceased; and Any and All Unknown Persons Claiming an interest in This Land The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONERS 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 to-wit: THIS IS A SUIT BY PLAINTIFF TO ESTABLISH OWNERSHIP TO THE PROPERTY BY ADVERSE POSSESSION. A DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY IS AS FOLLOWS: ALL OF LOT EIGHT (8), BLOCK SEVEN (7), OF GULF VIEW ACRES, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 349, PAGE 614 OF THE MAP AND/OR PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS AND KNOWN BY STREET ADDRESS OF 5819 JERRY ST., ROSHARON, TEXAS 77583.

If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned un served. Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 30th day of December, 2013.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, Fort Bend County, Texas

By Deputy District Clerk RACHEL CRISLER Telephone: (281) 238-1960

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: ALL UNKNOWN HERIS OF EVA DEAN CALHOUN, DECEASED, AND ANY AND ALL UNKNWON PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THIS LAND, ADDRESS UNKNOWN. 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being February 17, 2014, 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 n Richmond, Texas, and was filed DECEMBER 23, 2103. IT bears cause No. 13-DCV-211548 and is styled: Marta L Peraza and Maria Cruz Perez vs All Unknown Heirs of Eva Dean Calhoun, Deceased; and Any and All Unknown Persons Claiming any interest in This Land The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONERS 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 to-wit: THIS IS A SUIT BY PLAINTIFF TO ESTABLISH OWNERSHIP TO THE PROPERTY BY ADVERSE POSSESSION. A DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY IS AS FOLLOWS: ALL OF LOT FOUR (4), BLOCK ELEVEN (11), OF RIDGEWOOD ESTATES, STREET ADDRESS: TEAKWOOD, FRESNO, TEXAS 77545.

If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned un served. Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 30th day of December, 2013.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, Fort Bend County, Texas

By Deputy District Clerk RACHEL CRISLER Telephone: (281) 238--1960

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014 • Page 7

Churches show Christmas spirit

Mosaic Community Covenant Church, The Way, Embassy Covenant Church and Access Seventh-day Adventist Church, united to host a Christmas dinner for 16 underserved families from Briargate Elementary on Dec. 23 at Mosaic Community Covenant Church. After dinner, there was a candlelight service followed by Ms. Maclin, Principal of Briargate Elmentary, acting as “Santa” while distributing wrapped gifts for each child. There were approximately 100 church members and Briargate families who attended this blessed event. The event was uplifting to all families who attended. Each of the 16 Briargate families also received $50 gift cards to Walmart through generous donors. Top left, Pastor Carlos Jones II (The Way Church), Rev.

Mark Jackson (Briargate PRC Coordinator), Pastor Ed Lee (Mosaic Church), Valerie Maclin (Principal Briargate Elementary), Pastors Mallory and Janice Cranford (Embassy Covenant Church). Top right, Left to Right- Tonya Wise (Mom), Tyrell Wise Pre-K (seated in mom’s lap), Tony Wise (2nd grade), Tracy Wise (Kindergarten), and Alice Lee; Right Polly Gifford, Principal Maclin, Pastor Ed Lee, Marcus Boudreaux (4th grade).

FILM REVIEW — August:Osage County

When a great script meets great acting, we have a Best Picture of 2013. I haven’t made my final decision on the Sugar Awards by Larry H. (coming late January), so I reserve the right to choose another movie as my Best Picture of the year, but I’m just saying that currently Meryl Streep has done it again and should garner her eighteenth nomination. That’s an amazing feat, but let’s get back to Osage County.

Screenwriter Tracy Letts has created the Weston Family from Osage County, Oklahoma, who will be forever remembered as one of the outstandingly dysfunctional families in literary history.

This movie about the lives of a mother (Streep) and her three daughters (Julia Rob-

erts, Juliette Lewis, and Julianne Nicholson) is adapted from Letts’ play.

After you’ve seen this movie, and you will see it sooner or later, you will be convinced and fully appreciate that Tracy Letts is a woman. And that conclusion will be wrong.

But Mr. Letts certainly is in touch with his feminine side.

In 2008, Letts was awarded a Tony for Best Original Play for “August: Osage County” and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Now that his beloved Weston Family has made it to the big screen, I suspect that he will find room on his mantel for an Oscar.

Meryl Streep plays the nasty matriarch, Violet Weston, who is under the influence of her pain pill addiction

throughout the film. Watching Streep deliver her lines, with and without a wig, is a privilege.

Is she the best ever? Yes. I recommend that you pay close attention to her hair and make-up, and her costumes, and her ever-present cigarette smoking, and her eyes, and her expressions, and her body movement. And that’s all I can think of.

Julia, Juliette, and Julianne, as the three Weston daughters, were worthy of being on the same set with Streep. Julia Roberts has the second lead and she once again demonstrates that she is an exceptional actress, and is no longer just relying on her looks even though at age 46 she still has those beautiful, big lips and piercing eyes.

AUTOMOBILE: Mitsubishi Lancer

By BARBARA FULENWIDER With its affordable price starting at $17,195, seating for five, rally-inspired driving dynamics, cutting-edge user technology, advanced safety features, reliability and a funto-drive nature, the Lancer compact sports sedan has long been one of Mitsubishi Motors’ best-selling vehicles.

For the 2014 model year the Mitsubishi Lancer received a variety of new standard and available features that include: New audio system (standard on Lancer ES) * New 6.1-in. touchscreen display audio system (standard on Lancer SE AWC, GT & Ralliart) * New MMCS navigation system with 7-inch high-definition touch panel, voice command, 3D mapping, point-ofinterest information, real-time traffic, and Mapcare * New HD Radio (standard on Lancer SE AWC, GT & Ralliart) * New SIRIUSXM satellite radio with 3-month subscription (standard on Lancer SE AWC & GT) * New rearview camera (standard on Lancer SE AWC, GT & Ralliart)

When a movie cooks as well as this extraordinary picture does at all levels, the actors benefit from a seamless chemistry, and usually performances rise to the occasion. When the “funeral dinner” scene allows all of the actors to appear on the screen at the same time, Letts’ characterizations of his Oklahoman Weston Family is remarkable, and exhibits his genius use of the English language and quick-witted exchanges without a bobble.

Sam Shepard, Dermot Mulroney, Chris Cooper, Margo Martindale, Ewan McGregor, Abigail Breslin, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Misty Upham will now list this movie at the top of their resume because they will want to remind everyone of some of their best work.

The acting is so good that I will say no more; you decide.

And finally, let’s give huge praise to Director John Wells who has heretofore been known for his work on “ER” and “The West Wing.”

Welcome to the Big Time, John. Happy 2014!

Rock ‘n Roll.

Grade 94. Larry H. larryhmoviereviews.com

The First Baby for 2014 in Fort Bend County was born at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land at 1:05 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2014.Above,mother Diem Tran with baby girl Tran.

Great Time to Buy a HOME! Call Today and Start Moving To Your New Home tomorrow!

For all your mortgage needs

CALL KRISH at 713-579-7222 E-Mail – krishnan@sutherlandmortgage.com visit us at www.sutherlandmortgage.com Sutherland Mortgage Services Inc. – NMLS # 9891 Krishnan Swaminathan NMLS #20770 5959 Corporate Dr, Suite 3000 Houston, TX 77036 Conforming Fixed & Conforming ARM’s Jumbo Fixed & Jumbo Arms upto 2.5 million.

Up to 95% Loan to Value Relocation Loans –We are licensed in 43 states and DC Investment property up to 80% LTV Special programs for different VISA categories & foreign nationals

* New seats and seating surface fabric (standard on Lancer GT) * New 5-spoke 16-in. alloy wheel design (standard on Lancer SE AWC) Powering the entry-level 2014 Lancer ES is the 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine which makes 148 horsepower and 145 lb.-ft. torque. A short-throw 5-speed manual transmission makes shifting a pleasure while an available continuously-variable transmission (CVT) offers the convenience of automatic transmission-like operation with improved fuel economy.

The CVT-equipped Lancer ES achieves an EPA rating of 34 mpg on the highway.

The Lancer ES model packs a a number of amenities into a 4-door at a sensible price point.

Included at no additional cost to the consumer are the aforementioned new audio system, along with air conditioning, remote keyless entry, auto-off halogen headlights, anti-theft engine immobilizer, power door locks and windows with driver-side auto down and exterior design elements that include a chrome grille surround, sculpted side air dams and clear and black taillights.

All 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer models boast a comprehensive list of standard safety technologies that include advanced

dual-stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensor; side-impact head protection curtain air bags (front and rear), and front seat-mounted side air bags.

Also, driver’s side knee air bag, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Active Stability Control with Traction Control Logic and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

One rung above the ES trim level is the Lancer SE AWC, which includes Mitsubishi’s All-Wheel Control all-wheel drive system for robust handling and improved traction in adverse driving conditions.

The Lancer SE AWC includes a fuel-efficient yet more powerful 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 168 horsepower and an advanced continuously-variable transmission (CVT).

WINNER OF BBB’s PINNACLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE Ͳ 2013

Standard equipment includes heated front seats and side view mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, anti-theft alarm system, power windows, mirrors and door locks, and appointments that include a chrome upper and lower grille surround and black and beige trim seating fabric.

The 2014 Lancer GT model has an aggressive-looking front fascia, 18-inch alloy wheels, sport front bucket seats, special GT-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler, and the 168 hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. A high-tech continuously-variable transmission (CVT) with INVECSIII and Sportronic shifting with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters is also available.

Other equipment included

on every Lancer GT are automatic climate control; auto-off halogen headlights; chrome front grille surround; FASTkey electronic entry and start system; and FUSE HandsFree Link System with USB port.

The 2014 Lancer Ralliart provides pavement-pounding performance thanks to a 237 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled MIVEC-equipped inline-4 engine and rapid-shifting 6-speed automated manual Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission. The engine make 237 horssepower.

The Mitsubishi Lancer GT four-door sedan was the tested vehicle and it was loaded with standard equipment. It provided a comfortable, fun drive, good mileage and plenty of space. The MSRP was $21,445.

2013 GHBA

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 8, 2014

Developer of the Year