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U.S. POSTAGE PAID STAFFORD, TX PERMIT NO.10
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2010
Robust funding needed for mobility, says Transportation Commissioner Holmes By SESHADRI KUMAR An increase in gasoline tax, higher registration fees, toll roads with private investment, and tax based on vehicle miles travelled are among the potential steps that Texas residents may face to meet the transportation needs, Texas Transportation Commissioner Ned Holmes said last week. Increasing fuel efficiency of vehicles resulted in declining gasoline taxes and consequently declining revenue for transportation. The conflict between growing counties and stable counties heightened the tension in the legislature over the allocation of meager funds. The disparity was more pronounced in high growth areas like Precinct 3 in Fort Bend County, Holmes said. Holmes was the keynote speaker at the 13th annual breakfast with Fort Ben-
25 percent of vehicle registration and 15 percent other funds. By 2030, at the current rate, TxDOT would receive $206 billion. At least $487 billion will be needed to prevent congestion and $527 billion to reduce congestion. Thus the shortfall would be about $332 billion. Compared to this need, the federal stimulus fund was $2 billion. There is not enough money to address both the maintenance and the congestion needs and the state is developing some stop-gap, debtCommissioner Andy Meyers is joined by State Sen. Joan Huff- oriented funding. man and Texas Transportation Commissioner Ned Holmes at “We need a more robust soa breakfast meeting hosted by Meyers. lution and it may take three or drCounty Pct. 3 Commis- hear Holmes speak on the fu- four sessions of the Legislasioner Andy Meyers, held at ture mobility for Texas and ture,” Holmes said. “Self-help at local level is imperative in Safari Texas Ranch on Jan. Fort Bend County. 21. Currently TxDOT revenue the current scenario,” he said. Holmes felt that the fund About 600 people attended of $155 billion a year comthe fundraising event and to prises 60 percent of fuel tax, See MOBILITY, Page 3
Area sales tax receipts plummet By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Houston area economy may have diversified a lot but it’s still not enough to keep sales tax receipts from plummeting when the energy sector slows. Sales tax receipts collected during November have been reported this month by the state comptroller of public accounts and all the major towns in Fort Bend County collected fewer dollars in sales taxes for November 2009 than they did for November 2008. The biggest losers are Stafford, Meadows Place and Sugar Land. Stafford’s sales tax collections for November 2009 were $829,773 compared to $1,142,224 for November 2008 -- a 27.35 percent decrease. Meadows Place collected $72,886 this past November and $87,543 in November 2008 for a 16.74 decrease. Sugar Land, which has more retail than any other town in the county, collected $2,806,617 this past November in sales taxes and that same month in 2008 brought in $3,160,742. The difference for Sugar Land was a decrease of 11.20 percent. Stafford’s hit is the largest Mayor Leonard Scarcella said he remembers. Even during the 1986-90 Houston area economic downturn, he said
Stafford’s monthly sales tax collections were never more than 15 percent down. When asked what a town can do to turn that around, he said, “I think we’re just going to have to hold on by our fingernails. We can’t print money like the federal government and there’s nothing that’s really getting people excited about investing.” Where the sales tax drop occurred was in manufacturing, wholesaling, warehousing and the service sector. Retail actually increased some in the month that kicks off buying gifts for the holidays. The mayor said, “There’s so little that local government can do. We can’t change tax policy or pump money into any kind of stimulus or grants. We just hope other factors catch up, such as the world economy picking up a bit or they start drilling for oil in Russia again, etc. I blame this recession on Wall Street and these derivatives and all that kind of investing. That’s what has brought us all to our knees.” Scarcella said the basic economy has “turned around but not by some huge amount. It hit bottom and is coming back but it doesn’t have any traction. So many small businesses are in trouble and they can’t get loans. So many of the local banks are having trou-
10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487 Seshadri Kumar www.fbindependent.com Publisher & Editor 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. Periodical postage application pending. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.
ble. The silver lining in this is that in Texas we don’t have as many housing foreclosures as they do in other states, such as Michigan and Ohio.” Nevertheless, “the recovery will be a very slow process,” he said. In Texas, the mayor said, in the mid-l980’s, “it took five years for us to regain the economic vitality that we had in 1986. Some of the same forces were at play then. The energy industry was taking it on the chops. For us in the oil patch this recession today is almost a rewrite of that script of the ’86 downturn.” Other towns that saw a decrease in sales tax receipts for
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Chamber Chairman’s Ball
The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce held its annual Chairman’s Ball on Saturday, Jan. 16 at 3 Sugar Creek Center in Sugar Land to celebrate the incoming and outgoing leaders and volunteers of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Harish Jajoo, center, infrastructure divison chair of the chamber, was recognized as the volunteer of the year. Jajoo, a member of the Sugar Land Planning and Zoning Commission, is also active in the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. He is flanked by the outgoing chamber chairman Kolbe Curtice, left, and incoming chair, Bridget Yeung, at the gala. Below, Nicole Hill, left, Ann Smith, Kelli Metzenthin, Chris Breaux, Brenda Pullen and Jean Goff have a great time on the dance floor and say “Oh, what a night.”
November 2009 compared to that same month two years ago were Missouri City down 6.94 percent; Richmond down 2.55 percent, and Rosenberg down 8.50 percent. Total sales tax collections this past November for all towns in Fort Bend County were $5,333,265 compared to $6,157,950 in November 2008 for a 13.39 percent total decrease. Sales tax statistics for the four east Fort Bend County towns and Richmond and Rosenberg show that all but Missouri City have a current sales tax rate of two percent. Missouri City has a 1 percent rate.
Elliott, Roxie in GOP primary for District Judge
SPELLING BEES. Fort Bend ISD’s Sugar Mill Elementary School students Shilpa George and Jolene Chao were recently named winners of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, their school’s annual spelling competition. George earned first place, and Chao earned second place in the competition. The pronouncer of the spelling bee was Beth Graham, principal at Sugar Mill Elementary. Jimmy Thompson, Mayor of the City of Sugar Land; and Linda Marsters, former principal of Sugar Mill Elementary, served as judges. Shilpa will advance to the Fort Bend County Spelling Bee, which will be held Feb. 20 at Briscoe Junior High School in Richmond. If Shilpa cannot fulfill her responsibility, Chao will take her place in the upcoming competition. Pictured (front, from left) is: Jolene Chao (second-place winner), Shilpa George (first-place winner); and (back, from left) Linda Marsters, spelling bee judge and former principal of Sugar Mill Elementary School; Beth Graham, spelling bee pronouncer and current principal of Sugar Mill Elementary; and Jimmy Thompson, Mayor of the City of Sugar Land.
Elliott
Roxie
Incumbent Judge Brady G. Elliott of the 268th District Court of Fort Bend County, is facing Richmond attorney Roxie Roll in the March 2 Republican Primary. Elliott has served for over 20 years as judge of this Court.
Elliott has been recognized by the State Bar of Texas with a Presidential Commendation for leadership in improving justice in Texas; designated a class facilitator for the National Judicial College and
Introducing the new Back Pain Program at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land. You don’t have to live with pain
It’s time to start experiencing relief with a personalized treatment plan from our new comprehensive Back Pain program. Our skilled health team specializes in joint and back pain, offering both minimally invasive surgical techniques and non invasive treatments. To learn more, call 281.725.5225 or visit SugarLandBackPain.com.
See Judge, Page 4
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 27, 2010
Automobile: Nissan Rogue By BARBARA FULENWIDER Nissan introduced its Rogue crossover SUV three years ago and it continues to be a highly popular model for the manufacturer. For 2010 the Rogue comes in a sporty package that includes performance, versatility, safety and value. The Rogue continues to satisfy buyers with its func-
tionality, good looks and 58 cubic feet of cargo space. The 2010 Rogue comes in two models: the S and SL. Both models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft torque. Fuel economy is estimated at 22 in town and 27 on the highway for two-wheel drive models and at 21/26 mpg for
models with all-wheel drive. The motor is mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission and standard equipment includes vehicle control, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. A new 360-degree value package option for the Nissan Rogue costs $1,040 and
MCUSA Invites all boys and girls to sign up for our Spring 2010 Soccer Season. We provide competitive as well as recreational soccer programs, At an affordable price! JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
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includes 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview monitor in the auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear spoiler and chrome grille. The Rogue’s interior has a driver-oriented cockpit and leather and heated seats are available as an option along with a six-way power driver’s seat. The utilitarian uses include a really handy rear cargo organizer. Available technology features include intelligent key, Bluetooth Hands-free phone system, XM Satellite Radio and a Bose-developed audio system with seven speakers and a Nd Richbass woofer, AUX input and MP3 playback. The Nissan Rogue comes standard with front seatmounted side impact supplemental air bags and roofmounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for improved front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection. The exterior of the Nissan Rogue looks modern and sophisticated. It features available Xenon headlights, available power sliding glass moonroof with dark gray glass and an available roof
rail system with detachable crossbars. Chrome door handles are now standard on all 2010 Rogue models and the front doors open wide for easier ingress and egress. Inside an available driver computer, standard on the SL model, includes displays for distance to empty, average fuel consumption, average speed, elapsed time and outside temperature. Available steering wheel-mounted controls include audio, hands-free phone system and cruise control. The front passenger seat folds down to provide 8.5 feet of front to rear cargo space for carrying long items such as wood and the rear bench seat splits and folds 60/40. The driver’s seat cranks up
two inches for better visibility. The Nissan Rogue’s cargo area includes an organizer that pops up with the touch of a button from below the flat cargo floor. Part of the floor snaps into a vertical position, opening a flat recessed space with removable, vertical cargo nets. The system helps prevent items such as sports equipment and groceries from rolling loose around the cargo area while driving. The Nissan Rogue S FWD retails for $20,340; the Rogue SL FWD for $21,930; Rogue S AWD, $21,540, Rogue SL AWD, $23,130. I like the size of the Rogue as well as the interior people/ storage space and its comfortable ride.
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Building homes of quality and distinction for over 40 years.
Plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (10/08)
JANUARY 27, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3
Community news
Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!
New procedure to help severely obese lose weight Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the first hospital in Fort Bend County to offer the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure, which was performed by Guillermo Ponce de Leon, M.D., general surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “The surgical procedure helps people with morbid obesity lose weight and improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, high cholesterol and acid reflux/GERD,” said Dr. Ponce de Leon. During this procedure, a thin vertical sleeve of the stomach is created using a stapling device, and the rest of the stomach is removed. The sleeve is approximately the size of a banana, which is able to hold only 15 percent as much food as the original stomach. This procedure limits the amount of food you can eat and helps you feel full sooner. It allows for normal digestion and absorption. Food consumed passes through the digestive tract in the usual order, allowing it to be fully absorbed in the body.
Ponce de Leon The length of time of the surgery varies. The average operative time is between 1.5 to 2.5 hours and the average hospital stay is 2 to 5 days. Patients usually return to normal activities in 2 weeks and are fully recovered in 3 weeks. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy can be the first step before gastric bypass, or it can be a single procedure for weight loss. If a sleeve gastrectomy is used as part of a two-step procedure, the first step is for the surgeon to create the small stomach “sleeve.” After a period of time determined
by the surgeon, another procedure would be performed in which the surgeon attaches a section of the small intestine directly to the stomach pouch. This allows food to bypass a portion of the small intestine. Doing so enables your body to absorb fewer calories, in addition to consuming less food. This two-step procedure may be done because patients may not be able to tolerate both procedures during a single operation. Studies show that the two-step procedure has been used successfully in patients with a body mass index greater than 50 or for highrisk patients. Dr. Ponce de Leon will work with patients to establish a tailored progress plan and develop new health habits in the areas of physical activity, nutrition, and emotional well-being. He and the patient can set goals and continuously watch the progress together—especially for the first three years, as the patient adjusts to his/her new lifestyle. The Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure is just one of the many medical firsts that Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has brought
Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com
to Fort Bend County. For instance, just in the last couple of years Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physicians have successfully performed abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, angioplasty with stents, brain surgery, carotid artery stenting, gastric lap band surgery, open heart surgery, single port laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, urinary bladder reconstruction and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery – the first time any of those procedures had been performed in Fort Bend County.
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Jackson) Engineering Design: Reid Meyen (Needville) Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration: Angell Gaona (Wharton), Fernando Perez (Danevang) Licensed Vocation Nursing (LVN): Erliz Maldonado (Rosenberg), Esther Lanead-Moise (Houston), Camilla Aranda (El Campo) Network Administration: Grecia Garcia (El Campo) Nuclear Enhanced Skills: Renee Koehler (Brazoria) Process Technology: Marcus Garza (Bay City)
Radiologic Technology: Stephanie Lubojacky (Richmond) Welding: Joel Ortiz (El Campo) In an effort to meet workforce needs, the Texas Legislature passed legislation in 2009 to create the $25 million JET Program. One component of the program is the Career and Technical Scholarship Fund which will provide scholarships in fiscal 2010 and 2011 to eligible community colleges, like WCJC, to assist financially eligible students who are pursuing technical training for high-demand occupations.
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Free Seminars Come and learn the latest information on weight loss solutions including Lap-Band and Gastric Sleeve and have your questions answered. The seminars are held on the third Wednesday of every month starting in February at 6:30 p.m. Located at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in conference rooms A&D in the Main Pavilion. Seating is limited. Call 281-274-7500 to reserve your seat. Seminar Dates: Feb. 17, March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15 and Oct. 20.
SUGAR CREEK Great 1 story on huge corner lot. 3 bedBuilder close-out! Over 4200sqft! 5 bed- rooms & study. Seller has updated carpet, tile paint rooms 4.5 baths. Master down and full bed- in and out and roof replaced. Shows great and price room bath down, study & sun room down. already reduced to go fast in the low $200’s. Gameroom & Media up. Huge lot in cul-deFIRST COLONY sac. Reduced from $549,000 to $480,000 .
NEW LISTING
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Built in 2006. Popular Perry 1 story home. 4 bedrooms and both formals or study. 16’ tile and hardwood floors. Garage/gameroom. Covered over size patio. Playground & shed stays. Private Levee lot. Priced to go at $230,000.
First Colony/Sugar Land! Over 3100 sqft 4 bedrooms 3 full baths. Bedroom/bath down. Game room up. All new interior/exterior paint 2009! New carpet and tile 2009! Reduced to go in the $200’s and reduced again to go fast. Seller spent over $32K getting house ready to sell.
Mortgage Banker can do loans in less than 30 days! Call Suzette or email: Speoplesrealtor@aol.com
Houston Community Bank, N.A. Stafford Branch Starting or expanding a business? Working capital needs? We are your small business solution!
Sugar Land has low unemployment, but commerical projects on hold
The Bank That Listens
By BARBARA FULENWIDER Sugar Land officials will proceed forward with cautious optimism regarding the 2010 economy, Regina Morales, director of economic development, told council at their Jan. 19 meeting. “While Sugar Land continues to experience low unemployment levels,” Morales said, “We’re still cautiously optimistic and mindful of what’s going on in the region. Many commercial projects are now on hold. The outlook is that will be positive to flat-lining. Retail remains healthy but we’re also mindful that we have to diversify our revenue stream.” As for the future, Morales said, “We want to continue to position ourselves by creating the perception of a brand of Sugar Land, not as a suburb community but as a class A office location. We also want to create jobs and make this a destination.” Morales said challenges for the city are primarily the current tight credit markets, which have put various proposed new developments on hold, businesses taking a wait and see attitude and commercial valuation more at risk due to debt defaults. She said, “Commercial valuation remains in a precarious situation as a massive wave of potential debt defaults loom.” More good news is the unemployment rate in Sugar Land has remained low. In November,
when the national unemployment rate was 10 percent, Sugar Land’s was 5.7 percent. In 1990 44.55 percent of the jobs in Sugar Land were management/professional and by 2009 that rate had climbed to 56.50 percent. Morales told council that Sugar Land’s office, retail and industrial markets continue to expand. Current office inventory is currently at 6.5 million square feet up from 2.1 million in 2000; retail is now at 6.2 million square feet up from 1.8 million square feet in 2000, and industrial is at 7.7 million square feet, up from 1.6 million in 2000. The economic development director said that Sugar Land is “also quickly becoming a medical hub with new and expanded hospital and clinic facilities totaling more than one million square feet.” She went on to say that last year “there was not a single quarter of negative absorption. Even in our current economic environment, we continue to see positive absorption of backfill of existing space and newly expanded lease space.” She also pointed out that the vacancy and rental rates also tell a positive story. For 2009 the average rental rates “continued to hover near a strong $27 mark” and vacancy rates “hovered around a healthy 14 percent.” Retail net absorption dipped the first quarter of 2009 but re-
covered into positive territory for the next three quarters of last year. Rental rates in retail, Morales said, have gradually risen in 2009 to $18.80 and vacancies have gradually decreased through 2009 from 9.4 percent in the first quarter to 8.3 percent in the third quarter. She also said that during 2009 there was some stability in the industrial market with positive absorption in each quarter. “While vacancy rates show volatility in the industrial market, it is a positive sign that rental rates have remained relatively steady despite periods of increased vacancy” (first and second quarter of 2009). “From 2008 to 2009 Sugar Land had more than a $458 million increase in net taxable value with $189 million of that coming from commercial value. In 2009, commercial property comprised 39 percent of Sugar Land’s total net taxable value, she said. What commercial development means to Sugar Land is 30 percent of the land is commercial yet the city collects 77 percent of all its revenues from that 30 percent. It costs the city an estimated $2,518 to provide services to each household, which pays an average annual property tax bill of $767 so the rest comes from commercial property and sales taxes.
Sienna Plantation is introducing a new builder, J. Kyle Estate Homes, to its array of custom homebuilders. J. Kyle Estate Homes currently has three new custom homes under construction, including a model home in The Luxury Home Idea Village in The Forest at Bees Creek, one of Sienna’s acreage neighborhoods defined by old-growth woods and cul-desac streets. The model home will showcase the many levels of custom finishes, trim and décor offered by the builder. Also, J. Kyle Estate Homes has two homes underway in the Kennett Hill neighborhood, including one that will feature the popular casita option, perfect for an extended family or guest suite. All of the plans should be complete by spring. J. Kyle’s homes in Sienna Plantation will start in the $500,000s.
“Jason Kyle Hammonds and his family have a long building history in the Houston area and are well-respected,” said Michael Smith, general manager of Sienna Plantation. “J. Kyle Estate Homes is a fine addition to our carefully selected list of custom builders.” Hammonds, owner of J. Kyle Estate Homes, and his family have been building in Houston since 1987. They are noted for personal attention in the building process, Hammonds said, training employees, suppliers and subcontractors to work as if they were building their own homes. Other custom builders in The Forest include Fairmont Homes, Huntington Homes, Westport, Northstone Builders and Regan Homes. The neighborhood is located just minutes from Baines Middle School, one of four Fort Bend
Mobility From Page 1
with the public, he said. Saying there is a fairly significant lack of trust in TxDOT, Holmes said “I have been working on this task.” Meyers in his remarks alluded to the “pass through funding” for the expansion of FM 1093 approved by TxDOT in October last year. The funding mechanism essentially involves advance funding by the county with a promise of reimbursement by TxDOT. During that meeting, El
Paso had a large contingent of supporters in Austin pushing for their projects, while Fort Bend had only two representatives. North Texas cities and counties also aggressively pursued their projects, Meyers said. “We need to give Ned much better help. Houston can do a better job as a region,” Meyers said. Meyers said he has contacted the Houston-Galveston
Area Council officials to formulate a strategy so that the region can work together as a group in solving transportation issues. Meyers said mobility gridlock would stifle economic growth and quality of life in this area. “If we support one another, we can be successful,” he said of the regional cooperation on mobility. The breakfast attracted a number of elected officials. While Pct. 4 Commissioner
James Patterson led the gathering in the pledge of allegiance, Pct. 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage introduced the elected officials and political candidates. County Judge Bob Hebert and Pct. 1 Commissioner Richard Morrison were away in Washington to lobby for Federal funding of a mobility project in the Greatwood area. Pat Hebert, represented the County Judge and introduced
usage of the road by vehicles. Thus, the miles traveled by each vehicle will come into play, but there is opposition to this formula from privacy advocates. Holmes said physical implementatiuon of the technology may be on a “politically distant horizon.” Menawhile, TxDOT is being turned around and the agency has to restore its trust
SUGAR LAND REDUCED
NEW LISITING
15 WCJC students get state scholarship Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) scholarship awards, valued at $23,303, have been awarded to 15 Wharton County Junior College students enrolled in training programs for high-demand occupations. Honored students represent 11 WCJC programs that the state has targeted as fast growing and include: Associate Degree Nursing: Norma Zavala (Wharton) Automotive Technology: Mark Aparece (Sugar Land) Dental Hygiene: Laurie Kirchner (Sugar Land), Amy Lovell (Lake
SUGAR LAND/COMMON- Suzette Peoples WEALTH. Over 4000sqft! 5 ABR, GRI , E-Pro, bedrooms 3.5 baths, game 21 years Professional room, study/formal and extra Realtor; Owner of room. Seller has updated Peoples Properties, a carpet, tile granite counters, Real Estate & Property Management Co.; & more in 2009. Roof replaced American Business too. Big yard. Price reduced Women’s Association. to go $300’s.
JEFF SMITH President
TERRY CROCKETT Senior Vice President
281-208-2111 Member
13811 Murphy Road, Stafford, Texas 77477 www.houstoncommunitybank.com
Sienna brings J. Kyle Estate Homes campuses now open in Sienna. A high school is currently under construction and will open in Sienna in August 2010. According to Robert Charles Lesser & Co. (RCLCO), an independent real estate advisory firm, Sienna Plantation is one of the nation’s top-selling masterplanned communities. Sienna also was named “Best Development in Texas” during the 2008 CNBC Americas Property Awards. Residents enjoy abundant amenities in addition to the Brushy Lake Fitness Center, including the Club Sienna water park, tennis courts, a lakeside amphitheater, Camp Sienna sports park, frequent residential events and activities and much more. Residents also enjoy proximity to the Fort Bend Parkway. For more information, visit www.siennaplantation.com. the keynote speaker. Walt Sass, a Katy area businessman, emceed the event. Pastor Steve Littlefield of Simonton Community Church did the opening prayer. Fort County Deputy Sheriffs’ Color Guard and Sheriff Milton Wright presented the colors. Students from the Seven Lakes High School Choir in Katy and choir director Shannon Carter sang “The Star Spangled Banner.”
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 27, 2010
Opinion The View From Sugar Land
Texas Straight Talk
Texans look to Massachusetts
Legalize competing currencies
By RUSSELL C. JONES No doubt about it, the Brown victory in Massachusetts was the talk of the town this week. The Republican campaigned against Obamacare, trying terrorists in New York, raising taxes and more bailouts. In the process he achieved the upset election victory of the young decade, taking charge of the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by the nation’s foremost icon of liberalism. Democrats were stunned and in disarray, with various calls for delaying certification of the election results, pushing the health care bill through congress before seating Brown, and having the House adopt the Senate version of the bill unchanged so that no additional vote in the Senate would be required. Obama put that idea to rest, promising that no vote would occur until Brown had been seated. Pelosi, for once honestly analyzing the situation, conceded that she did not have the votes in the House. The day after the election, Obama explained to an Ohio audience that the bill was a “monstrosity” because of political maneuvering including the appropriately named “Louisiana Purchase” and “Cornhusker Kickback.” He claimed he had supported those amendments because they had benefitted the constituents of the recalcitrant senators, as if no one knew. At that point he clearly did not understand that the obvious unfairness of those deals was part of the message of the Massachusetts vote. The blame game flared to a new intensity as Democrats struggled to reject the idea that perhaps it is their own policies
Russell Jones which lost the race for them. At first, all blame was on the Democrat Coakley, who ran a less than stellar campaign. Then Obama himself cited the frustrations of the voters “over the past eight years,” an obvious attempt to lay blame on Bush once again. By the end of the week, James Carville, hardly a voice of objective analysis, had chimed in and called for Democrats to unify in naming the source of all of America’s problems: George W. Bush. Obamacare may or may not be dead for the immediate future. Some are calling for the Democrats to pass something, anything, so that they do not have to face voters in November whose last recollection was their congressman supporting the monstrosity of last Christmas. Others would set their sights on a wholly new bill and actually allow Republicans to participate in the debate. Obama brought in his former campaign manager, who then immediately published an op-ed vowing to fight on for a health care bill. Republicans, for their part, would do well to develop their
own program of health care reform, and demonstrate that the solution lies in conservative ideas, not in liberal takeover of the industry. Most agree that health care delivery in this country is among the best anywhere. Everyone agrees that the current system results in costs being too high. Some of the solutions are obvious and should be included in any such plan. Higher deductible policies would increase consumer sensitivity to costs. Interstate sale of insurance would promote competition and encourage individual states to decrease expensive mandates on carriers. Tax deductibility would place individual policies on par with employer programs. Finally, tort reform would reduce insurance costs and the need for the defensive practice of medicine. Obama himself announced that he would refocus the national debate on bank regulation, apparently pushing health care into the background for the time being. While this sounds like an attempt to point the blame of the current economic situation away from himself, it will be a welcome change from the past nine months. Most Americans did not place the same priority on health care reform as Obama. It is time to at least look at resolving the real economic isssues of the day. Jones is the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Sugar Land and serves as Councilman for District 3. He was first elected to the City Council in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.
MUSINGS: Freedom and security By JANICE SCANLAN Recently my Uncle Loyd restored my Grandfather’s traveling trunk that is more than 100 years old. We know that teenage Granddad had the trunk when he moved from Arkansas in the late 1800’s working his way across North Texas including the Waggoner Ranch headquartered in Vernon, Texas. In interviewing Uncle Loyd about his memories of the trunk, it struck me that a trunk meant not only freedom to travel and pursue a dream, it was also about security and carrying everything one owned. I remember the trunk sitting in my Grandmother’s cellar. By then, it had become a repository for pictures and important papers sitting in the midst of jars of canned fruits and vegetables stored in the dusty cellar. The draw to Texas was to acquire land in Oklahoma, which was still known as Indian or Oklahoma Territory. By the 1900’s claims were filed and awarded in a drawing, not like the chaos of the famous Oklahoma Land Run of 1889, which included five counties in Central Oklahoma. Under the 1862 Homestead Act, a claimant had to live on the land for five years, “prove it” and ultimately pay for the land. In 1900, my Grandparents married and lived in a dugout on his brother’s homestead near Hess, Oklahoma. In the fall of 1904, my Grandfather bought lumber in Vernon and camped at his new homestead claim and built a tworoom house and dug a well. January 10, 1905, my grandfather, his brother, their cattle, and supplies in a wagon made the 20+ mile trip from the Hess homestead to land that Uncle Loyd still
Janice Scanlan owns near Frederick. My Grandmother departed in a buggy the next day with two toddlers and my infant father, who was not quite a month old. It was so cold, Daddy was put in a feed sack to keep warm and placed at the bottom of the buggy. Can you imagine how exciting going to a two-room home had to be after living in a dugout? And this was a trip with only trails that included fording the North Fork of the Red River with its red sand, quick -sand and narrow streams. Just finding the place with no roads or cow trails, much less no GPS gives you pause for thought that a woman with three small children made this trip. They arrived to a home, warm fire and new life. They proved the land, paid for it and received clear title on January 9, 1911. Grandmother took total management of the farm in 1932, when my Grandfather died during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl. Somehow, she and her six children managed. The stories of families today may be less adventuresome, but the hard work that goes into building dreams
is no less real. With crimes against property up and burglaries happening in our neighborhoods, ensure that you know your neighbors and watch for one another. Theft often happens during the day when people aren’t at home. A vigilant community is one of the best tools for law enforcement. Ensure you know how to help our police keep the property from your hard work secure. Contact your police department for crime prevention programs in your neighborhood. Write to me at open.space@ earthlink.net.
Judge From Page 1 one of the few trial court judges in the State of Texas assigned to a court of appeals (the 14th court of Appeals) to hear appellate cases. In recognition of his extensive judicial experience Elliott has authored a section in the Capital Murder Bench Book for Judges. The 268th District Court is a general jurisdiction trial court handling felony criminal cases and civil cases of unlimited jurisdiction. “This Court requires a judge with experience in many facets of the law,” Elliott said. Prior to becoming judge, “I had many years of experience in the many areas of the law. I served as associate general counsel and general counsel of two of Houston’s larger public corporations prior to entering the private practice of law. My practice of law required that I try cases in State and Federal trial courts throughout the United States,” he said. Elliott said he was able to use this extensive
By RON PAUL Much has been made recently about the supposed economic recovery. A few blips in a few statistics and many believe our troubles are all over. Of course, they have to redefine recovery as “jobless” to account for the lack of improvement on Main Street. But the banks have money, Wall Street is chugging along, and the administration would like to get on with other agendae. They have even set up a commission to investigate the crisis as if it were all in the past. The truth is that Americans are still losing jobs, the Fed is still inflating, and more regulations are in the works that will prevent jobs and productivity from coming back. We are on this trajectory for the long haul. The claim has been made many times that this administration has only had a year to clean up the mess of the last administration. I wish they would at least get started! Instead of reversing course, they are maintaining Bush’s policies full speed ahead. They are even keeping the Bush-appointee in charge of the Federal Reserve! They are not even making token efforts at change in economic policy. And for all the talk of transparency, we hear that some powerful senators will do all they can to block a simple au-
Letter
U.S. Rep. Ron Paul dit of the powerful and secretive Federal Reserve. We have been on a disastrous course for a long time. The money supply has doubled in the last year, our debt is unsustainable, the value of the dollar is going to continue its drop, and those Americans who understand where we are headed feel helpless and held hostage by foolish policy makers in Washington. When the bills finally come due and the dollar stops working we are in for some real social, economic and political chaos. That is, unless we take some major steps now to allow for a peaceful transition in the future. These steps are laid out in my legislation to legalize competing currencies. First of all, no one should be compelled by law to operate in Federal Reserve notes if they prefer an alternative. We should repeal legal tender laws and allow Americans to
conduct transactions in constitutional money. Only gold and silver can constitutionally be legal tender, not paper money. Instead, it is illegal to conduct business using gold and silver instead of Federal Reserve notes. Simply legalizing the Constitution should be a nobrainer to anyone who took an oath of office. Consequently, private mints should be allowed to mint gold and silver coins. They would be subject to fraud and counterfeit laws, of course, and people would be free to use their coins or stay with Federal Reserve notes, as they see fit. Finally, we should abolish taxes on gold and silver, which puts precious metals at a competitive disadvantage to paper money. The Federal Reserve is a government-sanctioned banking cartel that has held far too much power for far too long and is in the end stages of running the dollar into the ground, and our economy along with it. The very least Congress can do, if they are not willing to abolish the Fed, and perhaps not even conduct a serious audit of it, is to allow citizens the freedom to defend themselves from being completely wiped out by their monopoly power. (Ron Paul represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas.)
MCPD earns words of praise
To the Editor: Our neighborhood recently had a good experience working with the Missouri City Police Department (MCPD) that I wanted to share with you. During the Christmas holidays, my neighborhood was hit with several burglaries. Of course, this alarmed my neighbors and I and we decided to look into some MCPD programs to see if they would help us protect our homes better. MCPD had apparently been wanting to meet with our community to discuss how their Department and our residents could work together. We scheduled a meeting, advertised it and about 35 residents showed up to see what the police officer assigned to our neighborhood had to say. The meeting turned out to be one of the most productive and interesting events we have ever held as a neighborhood.
The police officer was articulate, well informed, candid, and a good communicator. He had the crime incident history for our neighborhood for the past year and he pointed out the details that should concern us. He answered various questions about patrol coverage, effective crime prevention measures, gang activity and a number of other issues which were important to the residents. Most importantly, he was a great example of a good public servant. It was very evident that he cared about our community and welfare. Probably the most important thing the officer said was that residents need to get involved. If a suspicious car or person is seen near your home, the situation needs to be reported to 911 immediately. Delaying even a short time gives the suspect a chance to get far away from the neighborhood.
Needless to say, I enthusiastically support the Missouri City Police Department. A few years ago, I retired from a thirty-year career in law enforcement so I know some of the issues, stresses, and rewards of this type of career. Most of the men and women in law enforcement rarely get recognized for the sacrifices that they make during their careers. Our community now has a good relationship with the Police Department and we intend to build on that. We have communicated the results of the meeting with most of our neighborhood’s residents and we are working together with our assigned police officers to keep our neighbohood safe. Missouri City has great, dedicated police officers and they deserve our support. Howard Moline Missouri City
trial experience to implement docket control procedures and courtroom and chambers computerization resulting in the reduction of a backlog of over 3000 cases when he took the bench. Elliott believed that each litigant before the Court have the opportunity to have his case reached in a timely manner and victims of crime have their cases reached at the earliest opportunity. Elliott and his wife Rhea have been residents of Fort Bend County for over 36 years and have two sons and one grandson. Roxie Roll, long time Fort Bend County resident and local attorney said her choice to enter the race is based on her personal commitment that a judge must respect the law and pledge to faithfully administer it uniformly every day. Roll believed she had those values and wanted to make the needed difference in the 268th Court. Roll said most citizens rarely come to the Courts and believes that is unfortunate because the operation of our courts affects every citizen. Roll in her campaign website,
said “The demands of integrity and efficiency are with us in the corporate world and must be an integral part of our judiciary. “The judge must be vigilant about enforcing the existing laws and not judicially try to create new laws.” She believes her dedication to following the law will result in a greatly reduced rate of overturned cases in this court and lessen the backlog of cases facing this court. Roll is a native Texan, born in Port Arthur and settling in Fort Bend these past 37 years. She is the mother of two grown children; Kevin Boatright, a chemical engineer with Honeywell and Denise Boatright, a territory sales manager for U.S. Foods. Roll began her education with a Bachelors in Business
Administration from SWTSU with a specialization in Marketing. She became a Certified Public Accountant. Roll completed her Masters in Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas in Houston in 1990 and received her CPA license in 1993. As an Assistant Controller and after more than fifteen years in the corporate sector Roll entered law school. Roll obtained her law degree from Texas Weslayan School of Law in Fort Worth in 1997. From 2000-2005 Roll has served in various officer capacity for the Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. She was awarded the “Atticus Finch” award for 2005 in recognition of her “professional ethics in pursuing justice and protecting the rights of individuals.”
Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
www.fbindependent.com Email: Editor@fbindependent.com
INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 27, 2010 • Page 5
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2007 Nissan Sentra 2.0S Silver 603492 Classic Chevrolet 31,829 miles 877-351-3803 $12,988
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2006 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4Dr Lt. Gray 840317 Classic Chevrolet 40,636 miles 877351-3803 $16,575
2007 Lexus ES350 4Dr Dk. Red 041304 Classic Chevrolet 70,908 miles 877-3513803 $24,988
2008 Toyota Avalon 4Dr Silver 290811 Classic Chevrolet 35,169 miles 877-351-3803 $19,988
2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ Black 174015 Classic Chevrolet 2,819 miles 877351-3803 $38,988
2008 Chevrolet Cobalt LS 4Dr Red 232670 Classic Chevrolet 36,239 miles 877351-3803 $10,988
2007 Chevrolet Avalanche LT 1500 Silver 284970 Classic Chevrolet 58,966 miles 877-351-3803 $22,975
2008 Chevrolet Equinox LT Dk. Blue 057471 Classic Chevrolet 54,469 miles 877351-3803 $17,488
2008 Nissan Altima 2.5SL 4Dr Tan 502920 Classic Chevrolet 14,218 miles 877351-3803 $18,488
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Gray 151373 Classic Chevrolet 5,002 miles 877-351-3803 $37,100
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Silver 129692 Classic Chevrolet 4,769 miles 877-351-3803 $39,988
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2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500LS Pewter 339575 Classic Chevrolet 72,074 miles 877-351-3803 $8,988
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2004 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 White 298298 Classic Chevrolet 88,862 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Silver 207374 Classic Chevrolet 33,740 miles 877-351-3803 $29,988
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2006 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4Dr Lt. Gray 840317 Classic Chevrolet 40,636 miles 877351-3803 $16,575
2008 Chevrolet Express LS 3500 White 177235 Classic Chevrolet 33,150 miles 877351-3803 $19,688
2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT White 8G199806 Classic Chevrolet 25,869 miles 877351-3803 $47,977
2009 Chevrolet Impala LT Black 119477 Classic Chevrolet 29,522 miles 877-3513803 $15,588
2008 Toyota Avalon 4Dr Silver 290811 Classic Chevrolet 35,169 miles 877-351-3803 $19,988
2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2006 Acura TL Black Pearl 4-dr 6 cyl. 047858 Classic Chevrolet 62,077 miles 877351-3803 $20,488
2008 Chevrolet White Cargo Van 142154 Classic Chevrolet 23,680 miles 877-3513803 $14,988
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT1 Red 240258 Classic Chevrolet 28,224 miles 877-351-3803 $17,988
2009 Buick LaCrosse CXL Dark Slate 243984 Classic Chevrolet 15,911 miles 877351-3803 $19,350
2010 Chevrolet Camaro Red 2-dr Coupe A9133261 Classic Chevrolet 3,943 miles 877-351-3803 $37,900
2005 Chevrolet SSR LS Truck Silver 119812 Classic Chevrolet 42,432 miles 877351-3803 $24,988
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Silver 119195 Classic Chevrolet 29,405 miles 877-351-3803 $24,988
2007 Dodge Charger SXT Black 826647 Classic Chevrolet 45,365 miles 877-3513803 $14,588
2007 Chevrolet Avalanche LT 1500 Silver 284970 Classic Chevrolet 58,966 miles 877-351-3803 $22,975
2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Red V-8 299232 Classic Chevrolet 102,428 miles 877-351-3803 $10,688
2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle Salsa Red 409143 Classic Chevrolet 6,794 miles 877351-3803 $18,990
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Silver 207374 Classic Chevrolet 33,740 miles 877-351-3803 $29,988
2008 Chrysler Sebring LX Conv. White 209556 Classic Chevrolet 43,424 miles 877351-3803 $12,956
2007 Lexus ES350 4Dr Dk. Red 041304 Classic Chevrolet 70,908 miles 877-3513803 $24,988
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Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 27, 2010
Community Calendar Trout Fest Get ready to cast a line for a fishing good time at Missouri City’s annual Trout Fest on Saturday, Jan. 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. The free event will take place at American Legion Park, 4015 Lexington Blvd. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stocks several area lakes with fish during this time of year, allowing lots of opportunities for a good catch. Bait will be provided while it lasts and prizes will be awarded for the largest trout catches. For more information, call 281-403-8500 or visit www. missouricitytx.gov
The King & I The Stafford High School Choir, along with students from the Primary, Elementary, Intermediate and Middle Schools, will present the Rodgers and Hammerstein stage musical, The King & I, on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 31 at 3 p.m., in the Performance Theatre of The Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, Texas. Tickets may be purchase by credit card online at www.staffordchoir.com. The musical is generously funded by the City of Stafford, Stafford Choral Boosters and SMSD and is great entertainment for the entire family. Previous productions include Oliver, The Wiz, Bye Bye Birdie, Cinderella, Grease, Annie, and Wizard of Oz.
Rice Philharmonics The Rice Philharmonics keep coming back to the First United Methodist Church by popular demand. The Friends of the Arts Committee, of First United Methodist Church, Missouri City, offers for the third time in concert, the Rice Philharmonics. These lively Rice University students will entertain again with their pop tunes a cappella. The Philharmonics appeal to all ages and are known for their reverent to appropriately irreverent pop tunes, which will delight their “phans” because it “Phils So Good.” The concert will be held Jan. 31 in the chapel of the church, beginning at 4 p.m. The concert is free to the public. Love donations will be accepted. For more details, call 281499-3502 or email at FriendsoftheArts@comcast.net.
American Red Cross The American Red Cross will host a Disaster Volunteer Meeting on Monday, Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. This meeting is for interested individuals or groups who want to get involved in American Red Cross Disaster Services. This February, we will have a speaker to discuss the Red Cross DSHR system. The meeting will be held at the American Red Cross, located at 2610 BF Terry Blvd, Rosenberg,. For more information, contact Caroline Egan at cegan@ ghac.org or at 281-342-9480.
History of Sugar Land The Women’s Association of Sugar Creek Country Club will hold its first luncheon of the new year on Feb. 5 beginning at 11 a.m. in the club’s ballroom. The featured speaker will be Bruce Goodsill, who will offer his knowledge and expertise on the history of Sugar Land, Texas. Goodsill’s presentation of Sugar Land history is based on an engaging narrative on his research and personal experiences and supported with historic photographs. The focus of the presentation is Sugar Land’s company town era
but also includes a brief history of the area from the 1820s. Reservations are necessary for members and guests. Call 281494-5065 or e mail consy@ windstream.net.
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Free financial aid seminar For those looking for ways to pay for college and help completing the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), Fort Bend Baptist Academy will be hosting a Financial Aid Seminar on Monday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m., at 1250 Seventh Street in Sugar Land. The featured speaker will be Barrett Bell, Executive Director for Financial Services at Houston Baptist University. The program will cover all aspects of the college financial aid process, including why everyone should complete the FAFSA, how to complete the FAFSA, scholarship opportunities, scholarship scams, and additional information. Information shared will be useful and consistent for the majority of all college and universities a student may wish to attend. The community is invited, and questions can be directed to FBBA High School Counselor Jon Froelich, 281-263-9143, or jfroelich@fbba.org).
Fort Bend Tea Party on Feb. 5 The Fort Bend County Tea Party is hosting an evening of speakers on Friday, Feb. 5 from 8-9:30 p.m. at the First Colony Community Center 3232 Austin Pkwy, Sugar Land. Tea Party President James Ives stated “It is vital that the American People stand together to regain control of their future. To this end we invite like minded citizens to join us and get involved.” Area residents are encouraged to come and learn how to enter and affect the political system, and hear how the Tea Party Movement is expanding. Refreshments, party merchandise, silent auction, and a raffle will be available. www.fortbendcountyteaparty.com to RSVP by 1/28/10 seating is limited.
Kite festival reset for Feb. 6 The City of Sugar Land has rescheduled its Cultural Kite Festival to Saturday, Feb. 6 due to forecasted rainy weather conditions on the original date. Festival times will be -- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. -- and all activities will still be held at Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd. The festival will feature fine cultural food and entertainment from various countries. There will be kite flying competitions and lessons for those that have never flown a kite. Local kite clubs will provide parachute bowl racing for kids and a display of kites of all shapes and sizes for families to view. Walk-around entertainment and kite decorating workshops also will be available.
Boogie 2010 Sponsors, steering committee members and volunteers are needed for the 19th annual ELVIS – a 75th Birthday Bash fundraiser benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center. There is still time to register as a sponsor and steering committee member. Sponsor party is Thursday, Feb 25, 6:30 p.m. at Perry’s Steakhouse. Sponsorships range from $750 to $10,000. Individual tickets are $75. Silent auction items are still needed. For reservations and information, call 281.344.5757 or boogie@fortbendwomenscenter.org or log on to www.fortbendwomenscenter.org. Proceeds benefit survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children.
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Fitness Boot Camp If getting in better shape is among your new year’s resolutions, then sign up for the four-week Memorial Hermann Wellness Boot Camp to be held from Monday, Feb. 8 through Friday, March 5 at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. This results-driven conditioning program takes place in an indoor/outdoor environment, utilizing a military-style format and the most progressive, innovative and creative fitness exercises. Nationallycertified fitness instructors from the Memorial Hermann Wellness Center lead the workouts at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, 17500 W. Grand Pkwy. Participants may select from one of two workout times: 5-5:50 a.m. or 5:30-6:20 p.m. The Boot Camp comes with a money-back guarantee. Try the first session and if you are not satisfied, you will receive a full refund. For more information, contact Steven Ramirez at 281-725-5296.
Free SAT practice Representatives from the Princeton Review will conduct a free practice SAT test at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library, on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, which is located at 1530 Texas Parkway. A follow-up strategy session will take place on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 10 a.m to 12 noon, in the library’s Meeting Room. Students will take the practice test during session one, and will review their scores and learn strategy tips to increase their future scores at the second session. The test is three hours and 45 minutes long, and consists of three sections – Critical Reading, Writing, and Math. The sessions are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “Missouri City Branch Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling 281-4994100, or by visiting the library. CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 15th day of DECEMBER 2009 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #09-DCV-169019 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $8,646.35++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 2ND day of FEBRUARY, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -ISABEL GONZALEZ had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT FIFTEEN, (15), BLOCK TWENTY EIGHT (28) IN RIDEWOOD ESTATES, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY AND BRAZORIA COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 5, PAGE 29, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, (SAID PROPERTY LIES WHOLLY IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS) (ACCOUNT NUMBER 6400000281500907) Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law. ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $98,880.00 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m. At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306
CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 2ND day of DECEMBER 2009 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-167658 in favor of the Plaintiff - ROYAL LAKES ESTATES HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $4,582.30 ++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 7TH day of JANUARY , 2010 and will offer for sale on the 2ND day of FEBRUARY, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -MARIA MARTIN AND DAMON MARTIN had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 12, BLOCK 5, OF ROYAL LAKES ESTATES SUBDIVISION, SECTION 1, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AND RECORDED AT SLIDE 1685A, CLERK’S FILE NO. 1999043736 AND SLIDE 1854B IN MAP OR THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law. ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $466,440.00 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m. At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306 CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 15TH day of DECEMBER 2009 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #06-DCV-153124 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUTNY & ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $15,662.05 ++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 2ND day of FEBRUARY, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -GENARO ARTURO GARZA, & ET AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: LOT 20 IN BLOCK 16 OF RIDGEMONT, SECTION 3, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 9, PAGE 8 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 6250030162000907/1938005100020) Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law. ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $68,050.00 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m. At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306 CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 15th day of DECEMBER 2009 by the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #05-DCV-145314 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $8,002.26 ++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 2ND day of FEBRUARY, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -PEARL COLE had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: ALL THAT CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND CONTAINING 0.50 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LOCATED IN THE I & G.N.R.R. COMPANY SURVEY, NUMBER 4, ABSTRACT 361, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS: BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN THE WARRANTY DEED FROM JOHN MCDONALD, ET AL TO PEARL COLE DATED AUGUST 8, 1969 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 519, PAGE 56 IN THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 0361000000304907) Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law. ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $18,750.00 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m. At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306
Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 for Plantation Crossing Subdivision Partial Replat No. 1 of Unrestricted Reserve “B”, Pct. 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, William B. Travis Bldg., 309 S. Fourth St., Rm. 700, 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 Katherine Mitton with J. A. Costanza & Associates at 281-930-9339 for information prior to the hearing. Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. BID 10-043: IMPROVEMENTS TO KATY FLEWELLEN ROAD FROM KATY GASTON ROAD TO PIN OAK ROAD A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 10:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas. Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend. Plans and specifications for general contractors will be distributed in CD format only and are available at the Purchasing Department. Subcontractors may view at the following plan rooms: Amtek Information Services, Associated General Contractors, McGraw Hill Construction Dodge or AGC of Texas Highway Heavy Utilities and Industrial Branch. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bid, payment and performance 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
CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 400th District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on November 30, 2009 in cause numbered 07dcv157821 styled Village of Oak Lakes Homeowners Assoc vs. Michael E. Anderson and Nicole B. Cheek, in which a judgment was rendered on December 20, 2007 in favor of Village of Oak Lakes Homeowners Assoc for the sum of Four Hundred Eighty Eight Dollars and Forty Five Cents ($488.45); plus fees for posting notice of sale, publishing, costs of suit rendered by the court, legal fees, and all costs of executing this Writ. I have levied upon the below listed property on January 5, 2010 and will on February 2, 2010, Tuesday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the Right, Title, and Interest Michael E. Anderson and Nicole B. Cheek to and in the following described Real Property: Lot Four (4), in Block Two (2) of Village of Oak Lake Estates, Section Three (3), a subdivision in Fort Bend County, Texas, according to the plat thereof recorded in slide number 1460/B of the map/plat records of Fort Bend County, Texas together with all improvements located thereon, also known as 15322 Cobblestone Point Ct, Sugar Land, Texas The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of Village of Oak Lakes Homeowners Assoc, Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: February 2, 2010 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 am BY: DEPUTY S. STEELE TROY E NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas
CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 434h District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on NOVEMBER 4, 12009 in cause numbered 08DCV168240 styled NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. vs. PETER H. SENKULICS, in which a judgment was rendered on MAY 25, 2009 in favor of NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. for the sum of FOUR THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED NINETY ONE DOLLARS AND NINETY CENTS ($4291.90); plus fees for posting notice of sale, publishing, costs of suit rendered by the court, legal fees, and all costs of executing this Writ. I have levied upon the below listed property on DEC 8, 2009 and will on FEB 2 ,2010 Tuesday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the Right, Title, and Interest PETER H. SENKULICS II to and in the following described Real Property LOT 4, BLOCK 1 N BLOCK 1 OF REPLAT OF STONEHAVEN,SECTION ONE A SUBDIVISION, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS,ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NO. 1346/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, (THE PROPERTY) ALSO KNOWN AS : 715 AVERY DR., SUGAR LAND, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 77479 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 2 2010 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 am BY: SGT. M. KUTACH TROY E NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas
LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. RFP 10-046 – AMBASSADORS AND BUS STOP MONITORS FOR TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT A pre-RFP conference will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 11:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located in the Rosenberg Annex at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas. Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend. 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, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2010 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. BID 10-045 TEAL BEND BOULEVARD PAVING IMPROVEMENTS A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 10:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas. Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend. Plans and specifications for general contractors will be distributed in CD/ DVD format only and are available at the Purchasing Department. Subcontractors may view at the following plan rooms: Amtek Information Services, Associated General Contractors, McGraw Hill Construction Dodge or AGC of Texas Highway Heavy Utilities and Industrial Branch. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bid, payment and performance 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 OF PUBLIC AUCTION FORT BEND COUNTY The County Purchasing Agent of Fort Bend County will conduct a PUBLIC AUCTION for SURPLUS AND SALVAGE PROPERTY on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2010 AT 10:00 AM. The auction will be held at the Fort Bend County Needville Purchasing satellite office located at 9110 Long Street, Needville, Texas. Items to be sold: 32-Ford Crown Victoria’s (2000-2008), 3-Ford cab and chassis (1989-2003), 2-Cherokee Jeeps (1997-2001), 1-Dodge Dakota (2001), 1-Dodge Ram (2000), 3-Ford 150 (1992-1997), 1-Saturn (1999), 1-Expedition (2004), 3-Ford Taurus (2001-2002), 1-Chevrolet Impala (2000), 3-15’ shredders, 1-Ingersol Steel Wheel Roller and 1-Ford New Holland 7740 Tractor. Registration and viewing of all items will begin Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 8:00 AM. The auction will begin at 10:00 AM. All items must be removed from auction site by 4:00 PM on auction day. All sales are final. All purchases must be paid in full on the day of sale by credit card (Master Card and Visa only), cash, personal check with a bank letter of guarantee, cashier’s check with a bank letter of guarantee, or company check with a bank letter of guarantee. Absolutely no checks accepted without a bank letter of guarantee. Fort Bend County reserves the right to add or delete items from the auction. Items offered for sale are sold as is where is and without warranty. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Texas CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 15th day of DECEMBER 2009 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #09-DCV170623 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT #23 & ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $7,190.64++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 2ND day of FEBRUARY, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -LATOYA K. NIGHTINGALE, & ET AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT FORTY-SEVEN (47), BLOCK THREE (3), OF WINFIELD LAKES, SECTION FOUR (4), AN ADDITION, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORIDNG TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 2477/A OF THE MAP PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 894404 0030471907/8944040030471)) Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law. ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $107,870.00 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m. At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306
JANUARY 27, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7
Film Review: Extraordinary Measures Sometimes weird things happen and I have to work on Friday afternoons. I know such an act seems like a crime against nature, but I got caught on Friday and could not make it to the theatre. Part of the problem was lack of enthusiasm as I tried to choose between â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Tooth Fairyâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extraordinary Measures.â&#x20AC;? I even considered seeing â&#x20AC;&#x153;Avatarâ&#x20AC;? again and pretending like there were no new movies. I got up Saturday morning determined to go to a movie - any movie. (If I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go to a movie then Kumar wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay me the big bucks.) I repeatedly perused the newspaper movie section while negotiating with myself about my choice. Then I began looking for an excuse not to go at all. I finally chose â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extraordinary Measuresâ&#x20AC;? starting at 11 a.m. at First Colony AMC but I was convinced that it would be a dud. Even my long-time hero Gene Shalit panned it. I was getting depressed, but pushed through it and drove to the theatre and soon was feeling much
better when I ate some popcorn and drank some Mr. Pibb. I was surprised to see about 100 people already seated in Theatre #21 when I arrived. Then, I got passed that awkward moment when one is looking for just the right seat (near the target area but not near anyone else). The trailers were all about syrupy love stories and Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day which depressed me even more so I took a hit of popcorn to calm my nerves. Ok, I was wrong. This movie
caught my attention from the beginning to end. I laughed and cried in the first ten minutes. The movie is based on a true story and a book by Geeta Anand about John and Aileen Crowley (Brendan Fraser and Keri Russell) who have two children with Pompe Disease that is a deadly form of Muscular Dystrophy. Most children with this genetic disorder will die by age 9 because they are â&#x20AC;&#x153;missing an enzyme.â&#x20AC;? These two adorable children are 8 and 6. Brendan Fraserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character is the moving force of the film as he sets out on a personal and business quest to find an answer to his childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fate. The trail begins with Dr. Robert Stonehill (Harrison Ford) who is the classic curmudgeon medical scientist who is hidden in his underfunded lab at the University of Nebraska. Dr. Stonehill is a brilliant theorist, but has never been involved in developing a new drug even though he is convinced that his research is on the way to prolonging the lives of the Pompe children. John Crowley is a graduate of the Harvard School of Business with the guts of an entrepreneur and determination of a loving father. They need money
and lots of it. The story is very emotional but was not overplayed by Director Tom Vaughan who walked a fine line between creating a Hollywood tear-jerker and a believable account of human tragedy and hope. There was way too much scientific and corporate mumbo jumbo for my taste but I respected the need to explain the very complicated world of business meets science. My main man with the big mustache (Shalit) ripped Brendan â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Mummyâ&#x20AC;? Fraser as being miscast and uncomfortable with his role. I disagree; who do you believe? Me or Gene Shalit? Ok, I thought so. Keri Russell and Fraser were perfect as the concerned parents; the only suggestion I have for them is that Fraser needs to lose a little weight and Russell needs to put on a few pounds. The 67 year-old Harrison â&#x20AC;&#x153;Han Soloâ&#x20AC;? Ford was outstanding as Dr. Stonehill with an attitude, and he knew this movie would be a hit which is why he is listed as one of the Executive Producers. This is a good January movie. Rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Roll. Grade 89. Larry H. email sugarlaw @larryharrison.com
Not just oil, Pennzoil
PROUDLY SERVING FORT BEND SINCE 1981
Russell C. Jones Thelma Holoway Jones Lewis W. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chipâ&#x20AC;? Smith IV â&#x2014;? Real Estate â&#x2014;? Landlord/Tenant â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Banking â&#x2014;? Creditors' Rights â&#x2014;? Collections â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Business and Corporate Law â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Business Litigation â&#x2014;? Mergers and Acquisitions â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Estate Planning â&#x2014;? Probate â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Property Owners' Associations â&#x2014;? In the Sugar Land Industrial Park 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land 281-242-8100 rjones@jonesattorneys.com www.jonesattorneys.com AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Nerve & Tendon Disorders Arthritis of the Fingers & Hand Congential Problems of the Hand Congenital
Duke,the Grand Dog His sad eyes say it allâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking for a home!â&#x20AC;? Missouri Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pet of the Week, Duke, is a playful 7-month-old yellow lab mix who needs a big yard with plenty of room to play catch. Duke is gentle and loving and would make a great addition to any family. To adopt Duke or any other pets available at the Missouri City Animal Shelter, call 281-403-8970 to make an appointment to see them. The shelter is located at 1923 Scanlin Rd., behind the City Hall complex.
Dulles High School will present the musical â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Music Manâ&#x20AC;? under the direction of Dr. Denina Brown. The dates of the performance will be Jan. 28, 29, 30 and Feb. 4, 5 and 6th at 7 p.m. at Rodgers Auditorium. For ticket information please call Sandy Adelstein at 832-646-2446. Tickets will also be available at the door. Pictured: Carly Ribbe (Marion) and Jason Palfreyman (Prof. Harold Hill)
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Oil & Filter Change PLUS Tire Rotation s )NSTALL GENUINE !# $ELCO engine oil filter s 5P TO QTS OF '- 'OODWRENCH motor oil s 3OME MODELS SLIGHTLY higher priced s 3YNTHETIC OIL ADDITIONAL
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Front Wheel Alignment s )MPROVES FUEL ECONOMY s )NCREASES TIRE LIFE s )MPROVES VEHICLE HANDLING s 3AFER DRIVING s 2ECOMMENDED EVERY 12 months / 12,000 miles s -OST VEHICLES
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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 27, 2010
THIS YEAR, LOSE that pain in the neck. Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas offers FREE Seminars that could end your pain. There are many causes to neck pain. Some neck pain can be temporary. Other causes are more serious. Let the premier spinal care experts at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) help you defeat neck pain once and for all. Dr. Jeffrey B. Wood and Dr. Anthony J. Muffoletto are board certified and fellowship trained orthopedic spine surgeons who have extensive experience in helping Fort Bend residents overcome cervical/neck pain. Both specialists are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of a full range of spinal injuries
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Directory Directory Directory Directory Directory Dentists
Orthopedics
Eateries
Fort Bend Dental Associates, PA
Charlotte Alexander, MD
Cupcake Cafe
Orthopedic Surgeon 14090 SW Fwy #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-265-4264
16525 Lexington Blvd., Suite 160 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.cupcakecafeofsugarland.com (281) 242-2744
5819 Highway 6 S. #230 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.ftbenddental.com (281) 499-3541 Dr. James D. Condrey, DDS
Spa
Pets
JAVANI Med Spa
Lexington Boulevard Animal Hospital
3527 Highway 6, Suite 250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.javanimedspa.com (281) 491-1151 Afreen Pappa, MD, CEO
Dennis Halford, DDS, MS
Thomas Parr, M.D.
Julie’s Cakes
4503 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 (281) 980-8351
Orthopedic Surgeon 14090 SW Fwy #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-7111
Kalologie Skincare
3424 FM 1092 #230 Missouri City, TX 77459 (281) 261-8229 Julie Clifton, Owner
15890 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.kalologie.com (281) 265-0880
Thomas Lomonte DDS 12122 Murphy Road Stafford, TX 77477 www.drthomaslomonte.com (281) 530-1440
Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic, P.A.
Bombay to Beijing
15035 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.rbjc.com (281) 344-1715 Cheryl Bertrand, Physician Liaison
14025 Southwest Freeway, Suite 501, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-242-4242 Indian & Chinese Cuisine
Physicians
Texas Spine & Neurosurgery Center,
Kas Saranathan, M.D. 16659 S.W. Fwy,#481 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-771-3831 Cardiologist
Nik Nikam, MD Sugar Land Heart Center 16659 S.W. FWY, #361 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-7567 www.sugarlandheartcenter.com
Robert L. McClendon, M.D. 14825 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX, 77478 281-240-6000
A.Y. Shukla, M.D Neurologist 15200 SW Fwy., #395 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-565-8005
Chiropractors Stafford Chiropractic Clinic 2434 S. Main Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 499-2424 Dr. John A. Felker, DC, PC
Dr. Richard F. Barrett Barrett Chiropractic Clinic 281-499-4810 www.barrettchiroclinic.com
20403 University Blvd. #800 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.txsnc.com (281) 313-0031 Rajesh K. Bindal, MD
First Colony Aquatic & Rehabilitation Center
Pest control
20403 University Blvd., Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 325-0188 Sean M. Hayes, PT CSCS,
Gillen Pest Control
Foot Centers of Texas 3533 Town Center Blvd. S, #200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.foodcentersoftexas.com (281) 240-3338 Shetal-Nicholas Desai
A/C, Plumbing Hartford Services, Inc.
1012 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 www.gillenpestcontrol.com (281) 342-6969 Gary L. Gillen, President
Flowers Flowers by Adela 3756 Cartwright Road Missouri City, TX 77459 www.flowersbyadela.com (281) 499-5593
Flowers by Adela
741 Dulles Avenue, Suite D Stafford, TX 77477 www.hartfordservices.com (281) 261-3333 Mitch Rahim, President
925 Eldridge Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 242-4020 Ms. Ramona Ohl, Owner
Satellite TV
Insurance
Dish Network/Direct TV A-One International 9220 Hwy 6 South, Suite D Houston, Texas 77083 281-493-1888
Lake Olympia Animal Hospital 3603 Glenn Lakes Lane, B2 Missouri City, TX 77459-4719 www.lakeolympiaanimal.com (281) 499-7242
Man’s Best Friend
203 Century Sq. Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.sheaessence.com (281) 242-2878
7260 Highway 6, Suite 100 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.mansbestfriend.com (281) 499-0700
Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa
Attorney
Minuti Coffee 1535 Hwy. 6, Suite A Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.minuticoffee.com (281) 265-3344 Ardavan Motamedi, CEO
Foot Specialist
Shea Essence Day Spa
2627 Cordes Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.lexingtonpethospital.com (281) 980-3737
Texans Insurance & Financial Group, 101 Southwestern Blvd., Suite 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.swinsure.com (281) 277-7800 Basil Housewright, President
1437 Highway 6, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.drshel.com (281) 313-7435 Dr. Shelena Lalji, Medical Director
The Woodhouse Day Spa 4855 Riverstone Drive, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.sugarland.woodhousespas.com (281) 208-9119
Genesis Day Spa and Salon 16255 Kensington Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.spagenesis.com (281) 265-6001
Aveda Concept Salon Eben & Day Spa 15510 Lexington, Suite G Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.salonebenanddayspa.com (281)-980-5160
Accountants Sandersen & Knox LLP , Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.SKBTexas.com (281) 242-3232
KenWood & Associates, PC Certified Public Accountants One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. #300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.kenwoodpc.com (281) 243-2300
Hrbacek & Associates,P.C. 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com 281-240-2424
For just $10 a week you can list your business in this directory. Minimum 13 weeks commitment for $125; 26 weeks for $250 and 52 weeks for $500. Call today 281-980-6745 or email editor@ fbindependent.com