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VOL 4 No 13
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Sugar Land
FBISD student Sivateja wins Houston PBS Spelling Bee title
Classic Chevrolet’s Chili Cook-off Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land held its first annual chili cook-off on March 24 and more than 500 people attended the four-hour fun and entertaining event. Mark Kolon, general sales manager of Classic Chevrolet described the event as a well rounded success and the event raised some good money for the benefit of the Sugar Land Police Officers Association. This will be a yearly event, Kolon said. Top, Classic Chevrolet Owner Don Kerstetter, left, Fort Bend County Commissioner James Patterson and Kolon. Above Left, Chris Panos and Jim Boike of Classic Chevrolet’s service department were among the 13 teams which participated in the chili cook-off. Left, the Oasis Senior Living team won the grand championship at the chili cook-off. The winning team included Ray Aguilar, Carrie Boisen, Steve Smith and Tony Perez. —Photos by SESHADRI KUMAR
By spelling the word “feijoada”, Sivateja Tangirala from Sugar Land, a 7th grader at Fort Settlement Middle School in Fort Bend ISD, won the 2011 HoustonPBS Spelling Bee. Tangirala was one of 55 spellers from 42 counties competing in the bee which was televised live on HoustonPBS/ Channel 8 on Saturday, March 26, 2011. He advances to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, the nation’s highest-profile academic event. “I have many people to thank for their help and support, including my family and my teachers, Miss O’Brien, Miss Cairns and Miss Bakus” says Tangirala. By winning the HoustonPBS Spelling Bee, Tangirala won an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Washington, D.C. to represent Houston at the Scripps National Spelling Bee during Bee Week, which runs from May 29 – June 3, 2011. He will compete against 274 fellow spellers from all over the country for over $35,000 in cash and prizes. The HoustonPBS Spelling Bee is the third largest Bee in the country with 1,070 schools participating. This is the third year the station has served as
CASA volunteer King gets national award On March 20, the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association honored Pat King with the 2011 National CASA Board Member of the Year award during the 30th Annual National CASA Conference in Chicago, IL. King is a volunteer with the Child Advocates of Fort Bend. He was an inaugural member of the organization and aided with its establishment in 1991. For the past 20 years, he has advocated for children as a volunteer, helping to speak for children in the foster system, and looking out for their best interests. Additionally, King is a board member, a role he has
FBISD candidates spell out their platforms By SESHADRI KUMAR Seven of the eight candidates on the Fort Bend ISD ballot for three trustee positions attended a forum hosted by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce in Sugar Land last week. The candidates briefly explained their credentials and beliefs on the education system. They also answered two questions posed by the moderator Chris Breaux, one on the most critical issuing facing FBISD and the other on maintaining academic success despite the drastic changes in demography. Susan Hohnbaum, a former teacher and incumbent trustee, for west side position 1, described the past three years as a trustee as “stressful, rewarding and productive.” She was also proud of the academic achievements of the school district.
Stressing budget, re-zoning and reduction in force were very challenging issues, Hohnbaum said she had done her best and she would continue to do so. She also said her objectivity enabled her to always think about students. Wade A. Watassek, who is running against Hohnbaum, is a former resident of Quail Valley and he graduated from Dulles High School. “I value education. I am proud of the school district,” said Watassek. His wife is a teacher at Austin High School. As a businessman, Watassek said he will look at school district issues from a business perspective. “I will not be afraid to ask tough questions and will make hard decisions,” he said. Watassek also said he believed in “open and honest
communication.” For at large position 4, incumbent Daniel Menendez and three others, Bruce Albright, Rodrigo Carreon and Kevin Daniels, have filed. Menendez said the public school system should be strong. He alluded to his qualification as a West Point graduate. Menendez said he had the “leadership and fiscal responsibility” required in these trying times. Menendez also said he would represent the entire community with integrity. Albright said the district has not been a good steward of fiances. The district needs to be more transparent and needs to work on retaining teachers, he said. The district should be more receptive to public input and listen to the citizens, Albright said.
The state of Texas alone is not at fault for all the problems of the district, though that is partly true, he said. If elected, Albright said, he would seek common sense solutions and think outside the box. Carreon, who is running for the school board for the fourth time, called for proper zoning of schools and proper use of space in school buildings. “Race had no place in schools,” he said. Anglos, low-income people, minorities, all must unite and work, Carreon said. Do we need more schools or more prisons, Carreon asked. “You voters decide,” he said. Daniels described himself as a career educator and wanted to provide the best ideas for teachers, parents and students. “ I am very concerned about
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Pat King and National CASA spokesperson and child welfare activist Judge Glenda Hatchett who received the National CASA President’s Award. successfully held since 2001; serving in a variety of capaci-
ties including treasurer, president, and vice president.
the direction of the FBISD. It should work for all students involved,” Daniels said. Jonita Reynolds is a candidate for the east side position 5 seat, which is open. Patsy Taylor, who has also filed for the position, did not attend the forum. Reynolds described herself as a “passionate professional who believes in effecting change.”
A former director of strategic management and quality improvement in Houston ISD, Reynolds said “I believe in flying into the storm.” She wanted the businesses, school board, employers, parents and students to join the team to effect the change. The candidates were then asked to cite the most critical issue facing FBISD. See PLATFORM, Page 2
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Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 30, 2011
40 days of prayer against abortion
On Greebriar Drive in Stafford nowadays people can see a few anti-abortion protestors from 40 Days for Life, an intensive pro-life initiative that focuses on 40 days of prayer and fasting, 40 days of peaceful vigil at abortion facilities, and 40 days of grassroots educational outreach. “On March 9, Christian Voices for Life of Fort Bend County joined together with people of faith and conscience from 246 other communities from coast to coast in launching a 40 Days for Life campaign,” said Marie McCoy, Executive Director of Christian Voices for Life. Christians from several area churches are joining in the prayer vigil at the Planned Parenthood clinic at 3727 Greenbriar Drive in Stafford, where chemical abortions are offered. Volunteers will pray at the location from 7 a.m to 7 p.m, Monday through Saturday, until April 16. “40 Days for Life has already generated proven life-saving results,” said David Bereit, national director for 40 Days for Life.
Platform from Page 1 Hohnbaum said the most critical issue facing the district was finance and to balance the budget the district may have to go to its own rainy day fund or reserves. The board is working hard to decide where the cuts need to be made and more than 200 teachers have responded to the voluntary retirement incentive, she said. The district faces rising costs on every front, but has fixed revenue, Hohnbaum said. “Our goal is not to harm the academic achievement in any way and balance the budget somehow,” she said. Watassek said finance is
critical. Long range planning should be a priority, he said. Everybody needs to be held accountable, top to bottom, for achieving the objective, Watassek said. “We are starting with the areas that could be cut. We want to have natural attrition. The district always had low attrition and a high retention rate of teachers,” Menendez said. Menendez also said the district will not start new schools immediately to control the district’s debt. Albright said the district should find ways to live within its means. He expressed concern about the annual debt repayment of about $51 million. “Teachers’ morale is very low and we are losing the best
10 years’ probation for killing husband
LCISD’s distinguished principals
Seven Lamar CISD schools are being recognized by the Texas Education Agency’s No Child Left Behind Program for outstanding academic performance. Bowie, Long, Meyer, Ray and Velasquez elementary schools and Wessendorff Middle School are all National Title I Distinguished Performance Schools for Performance. Travis Elementary is a National Title I Distinguished School for Progress. Rick Amick is the principal at Bowie; Jill Nehls is the principal at Long; Lisa McKey is the principal at Meyer; Ben Perez is the principal at Ray; Heather Patterson is the principal at Velasquez; Kevin Winter is the principal at Travis; and Diana Tydlacka is the principal at Wessendorff. The criteria for Distinguished Progress are the same, except that the campus would not have been Recognized or Exemplary in 2008. Seated are Meyer Elementary principal Lisa McKey, Velasquez Elementary principal Heather Patterson and Long Elementary principal Jill Nehls; standing are Travis Elementary principal Kevin Winter, Ray Elementary principal Ben Perez, Wessendorff Middle School principal Diana Tydlacka and Bowie Elementary principal Rick Amick.
A Pecan Grove woman who murdered her husband has received 10 years of deferred adjudication as punishment. The 434th District Court Judge James H. Shoemake sentenced Charlene Roberta Hill to 10 years deferred adjudication last week after she plead guilty to the murder of her husband during her trial in February 2011. Hill was previously tried for the murder in 2009, which resulted in a mistrial when the jury became deadlocked. Hill was charged with shooting her husband to death in their Pecan Grove home in 2006, but originally claimed it was selfdefense. While the jury deliberated during the second trial, Hill plead guilty to the murder of Danny Hill, waived her right to appeal, and reversed her claim of self-defense. She was then sentenced to 10 years deferred adjudication probation in an agreement with prosecutors, but Judge Shoemake determined the conditions
There is “no linear solution for a complex problem,” she said. To change one area and not to see the consequences in other areas may exacerbate the problem and one should be wary of unintended consequences, Reynolds said. The best way to prepare all students to be academically successful is to go back to the basciics, 3 Rs, reading writing and arithmetic, Albright said. Also, all the schools should offer college preparation programs, he said. Watassek questioned the definition of success as it varied from person to person. Since he was not a teacher, he could not suggest the best way to teach, Watassek said.
Reynolds said she was against one size fits all approach of institutions. Valuing a good teacher is important and for it, “we need to pay on the front end,” she said. Carreon said “Go back to teaching the basics.” Also, parents should be involved and volunteer at schools, he said. Menendez said in FBISD all the groups of students being moved up to the same level of proficiency. For those at risk of dropping out, the district has special programs in place to help, he said. Daniels said across the board all high schools should have college prep courses and college prep programs are needed in middle schools as well.
and the brightest,” Albright said. Carreon said the district should learn how to use finances properly. It is not a good idea to let good teachers leave, he said. The district needs good, quality leadership and teachers, he said. Daniels said the issue is more than finance. “Teachers are teaching to tests and state mandate stifles creativity,” he said. “Bureaucracy of teaching is the biggest crisis,” Daniels said. He also wanted the class size to be limited to 18 and he believed academic achievement drops if the class size is more than 18. Reynolds said the district is facing a “global issue.”
of probation during the hearing. As part of the agreement, the defendant must serve at least five years of her probation before she can request the term of probation to be shortened. Judge Shoemake assessed a $10,000 fine, 600 hours of community service, domestic violence counseling and the Prison for a Day Program. He also ordered Hill to have no contact with her deceased husband’s brothers or mother, and her own son, Jeremy Hill. The defendant will also be part of the probation department’s mental health caseload which results in stricter monitoring than a normal probation. Under the law in this case, Hill could not have received probation unless the State, the defendant, and the Judge agreed to it. Ten years is the maximum probationary period. A jury verdict of “guilty” would have resulted in the defendant’s imprisonment for a term of years between five and life. Deferred adjudication is a form of probation that, if successfully completed, results in no conviction. However, if Hill fails to live up to the conditions imposed on her by the court, she risks the maximum punishment of life in prison. Murder is a first-degree felony punishable from 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Assistant District Attorneys Chad Bridges and Jill Stotts prosecuted the case. Attorneys George Parnham and Dee McWilliams represented the defendant.
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MARCH 30, 2011 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3
Missouri City City Council approves church, cell tower By BARBARA FULENWIDER Everything is about location when it comes to Missouri City Council approving a church moving in or a cell tower being built in their town. The church takes tax revenue away from the city so the city doesn’t want it on commercial property that will generate taxes, and residents don’t like the looks of cell towers besmirching their vistas and possibly decreasing their property value. A church re-location and new cell tower were both on council’s March 21 agenda and each was approved on the first of two readings after councilmen asked their questions about the Mara-Natha Full Gospel Church of Dallas. The church was requesting a specific use permit (SUP) to relocate in the former racquetball club at 2716 Cypress Point in Quail Valley. The 1.2957 acre tract is zoned local retail district and located west of the city’s future tennis and recreation center. Mayor Allen Owen pointed out that the city had an application for a church across the street that council denied due to a traffic issue. He said, “The main problem with that was the numbers they came back with.” City Manager Frank Simp-
son said, “They had a huge congregation not the 100 we’re talking about here.” Also, he said the city never could get consistent information from representatives of that church concerning the traffic impact. “They indicated they would have between 3,000 and 4,000 members,” Simpson said. “This church has been pretty well verified on the number of people in its congregation,” and he said, “They have an acceptable traffic impact study.” Owen asked if parking was adequate and was told by a staff member that it is with shared access parking available in front of an adjacent empty building. The mayor then said his main concern is if the church will confine itself to the one building. “At some point in time,” Owen said, “are they going to want to expand to that facility next to them and then we’re back to where we were with the other church that we turned down for the same reasons. Don’t come back and ask for the expansion later on.” The pastor of the church, Clement Varghese, said, “Our church does not grow like other churches. We are basically focused on our community.” Varghese explained that his church is wanting to
Ground-breaking for food service distribution center The turning of dirt at the ground breaking for a halfmillion-square-foot Ben E. Keith Distribution Facility in Missouri City on March 22 brings with it hundreds of new jobs, other economic development projects and a prestigious company that chose the “Show Me” City for its 82-acre site with the future opportunity to expand to more than one million square feet. Mayor Allen Owen likened the groundbreaking ceremony, held inside a large white tent set up at the site of the future distribution headquarters on Cravens Road near South Gessner Road, to a wedding. “First you have the dating period, then the engagement period, then you set the date for the wedding and finally today is the wedding. It’s a huge day for the City. We waited four long years and it was well worth the wait because we did it right. I cannot express in words how important this is for Missouri City—to the tax base, to an employment base and to what it means to the community. And my next promise is to bring commuter rail to this location in the future.” Ben E. Keith Foods is now the eighth largest broad-line distributor in the nation, with six distribution centers serving South Central USA –Tex-
as, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Kansas, Tennessee, and Missouri. The company’s warehouse and other buildings will serve southeast Texas and Louisiana and create about 300 jobs. It expects to start operations in Fall of 2012 or Winter of 2013. The warehouse includes: *Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems *LEEDS Gold Status in harvesting rainwater for use as non-potable water for the facility; reduced paving to reduce rainwater runoff, and plans to recycle 95 percent of construction waste generated. The additional buildings at the facility will include a 91,455-square-foot freezer, 48,992-square-foot cooler and a 33,648-square-foot Truck Maintenance Garage, among others. “We believe Missouri City has the highquality work force we need,” said Mike Roach, President, Ben E. Keith Foods. “Our demographic studies showed it validated our decision to locate here. It was also a proper fit logistically with access to Beltway 8.” Robbie Fish, General Manager of the new distribution center, noted the groundbreaking was the culmination of hard work by the City, Fort
move because it is now located downtown but that a lot of its members have moved to Sienna Plantation. Owen replied, “We’re not opposed to what you are requesting today but if you are eyeing the empty property next door, we want to make sure we’re fair.” Because churches are exempt from paying property taxes, Councilman Jerry Wyatt asked what the current tax bill is or how much revenue the city will lose if council approves the requested SUP. Simpson said he’d have that figure available at council’s next meeting. Wyatt said, “I asked that question because this facility has been empty for most of the past 20 years. The last church that wanted the property lied to us. If we were talking about fronting on Cartwright Road, I can tell you right now the answer would be no.” Then the pastor was told that council approved a SUP for a school in the former racquetball building some 10 years ago but no action was taken on it. When the pastor was asked if the church plans to have a school, he said, “Not now. We may someday plan to have a daycare.” Owen said, “At one time we (Missouri City) tried to buy the building. My main concern is not the church but
I don’t want to see you in three years saying ‘we need to double this because we have 3,000 people.’ There can never be a traffic light at that intersection so we have to be concerned about creating a traffic problem into that residential area of the city. That’s my concern, pastor.” When the vote was called for councilmen unanimously approved the SUP on first reading. They also approved the building of another cell tower with almost no questions or conversation because this one is in the right place. T-Mobile West Corp., on behalf of Global Geophysical Services, requested an amendment to Planned Development District No. 58 to allow for the building of a 140-foot high communications tower at the intersection of South Gessner and Pike Road north of Industrial Drive. After councilmen voted, Owen said, “This is an appropriate place for a cell tower. This one won’t make any difference to that (industrial) area. See how easy it is when you put them in the right place.” Background information to council says T-Mobile currently has five cell tower sites in Missouri City with the average height of its towers at 106.6 feet.
Bend County, Water Control Improvement District #2, the Fort Bend Economic Development Council, and Ben E. Keith staff. This facility will be the first food service distribution
center in the country that will have a double deep automated storage and retrieval system. It will be a great selling tool and a growth engine for Ben E. Keith for the next 20 years.
Notice of Public Hearing City of Sugar Land Annual Action Plan For the use of CDBG Funds The City of Sugar Land will hold a public hearing to give all Sugar Land residents an opportunity to voice opinions on the Annual Action Plan for the use of HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and proposed projects for the upcoming program year. We would like to hear your comments on how we should prioritize programs for the coming year and how we plan to spend CDBG funding. A mandatory pre-application workshop for all agencies that will be requesting CDBG funds will be held in conjunction with the public hearing. All attendees are invited to speak on the subject of CDBG at the public hearing on: Tuesday, April 5, 2011 10:00 A.M. Cane Room Number 161 City of Sugar Land City Hall 2700 Town Center Boulevard North Sugar Land, Texas Residents may send comments before April 22, 2011 to the City of Sugar Land Community& Environmental Services Department, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479 or P.O. Box 110, Sugar Land, Texas 77487-0110. Residents may fax comments to the City at (281) 275-2771. CDBG Program Background The national objective of the CDBG program is to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities principally for low and moderate-income persons. Not less than 70% of CDBG funds must be used for activities that benefit low and moderate-income persons. CDBG goals include: 1. Improving the urban environment in low and moderate income areas; 2. Eliminating blighting influences and the deterioration of property, neighborhoods and public facilities in low and moderate-income areas; and 3. Ensuring decent, safe, sanitary housing for low and moderate-income residents. Eligible activities include but are not limited to: public facility construction and improvements; handicapped accessibility; operational funding for non-profit agencies servicing primarily low income persons; rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing; housing development assistance; enforcement of City codes; clearance and demolition; infrastructure improvements; business development and job creation activities. Fair Housing Issues The Public Hearing will also be a forum regarding input on fair housing and related issues. Citizens with suggestions and/or concerns will be provided opportunity to voice those issues during the last portion of the public hearing. Note: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this facility is wheelchair accessible, and accessible parking spaces are available. Requests for special accommodations or interpretive services must be made at least 48 hours prior to this meeting. Please contact Stacie Henderson at 281 275 2170 or by FAX at 281 275-2771.
An afternoon of Barbershop Harmony On Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m. the Cradle of Texas Chorus of Sweet Adelines under the direction of Holly Ritter will perform for your pleasure in the Meeting Room of George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Come and enjoy a rare and free afternoon of a cappella singing featuring ballads, show tunes and jazz, performed in 4-part harmony.
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Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 30, 2011
Opinion
The View from Sugar Land Will UH–Sugar Land move to A&M? By RUSSELL C. JONES Earlier this month, State Rep. Geanie Morrison introduced legislation which would transfer control of the University of Houston–Victoria to Texas A&M University. The bill would have a profound effect on the Sugar Land campus of the U of H. In the grand scheme of the UH system, Sugar Land is a division of Victoria. Its curriculum is controlled by Victoria and the diplomas received by its graduates read “University of Houston – Victoria.” Morrison’s bill would transfer the Sugar Land campus to become a part of the A&M system along with Victoria. Community leaders in Sugar Land have long been dissatisfied with the University of Houston. It has repeatedly failed to keep promises of upgrades to the academic status of the Sugar Land campus. In a major announcement of the University’s fifty-year plan held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Houston two years ago, a glaring omission was any mention of the Sugar Land campus. The omission was no surprise. It was merely a ratification of what Sugar Land leaders have long suspected. Before Robert Gates was Secretary of Defense, he was the president of Texas A&M. Preliminary contacts were made at that time regarding the possibility of transferring the Sugar Land campus to A&M, but his departure to join the Bush administration effectively terminated those discussions. The city, as well as a number of business leaders and private individuals, has made major contributions toward the Sugar Land campus. Dissatisfaction with UH has been simmering among members of the Sugar Land City Council for several years. When the University refused
Jones to allow the construction of the new minor league baseball park on land leased from the University, some members of the City Council reached the breaking point. The lease specifically allows construction of recreational facilities, but the University would have none of it. Last October, community leaders in Victoria met with key members of the Board of Regents of the University. The result was a disaster, with headlines reporting their disagreements in the Houston newspaper. Apparently, Victoria’s complaints are similar to those of Sugar Land. Shortly after that raucous meeting, a representative of the University met with members of the Sugar Land City Council in the hopes of not having Victoria’s dissatisfaction spread among key supporters of all of UH’s outlying campuses. The representative promised that a plan for major academic improvements for Sugar Land would be forthcoming within three weeks of that October meeting. Three months later, a promise was made that the plan will be forthcoming in another three weeks. Five months have now passed, and no plan for significant academic improve-
ments at the Sugar Land campus has been offered. When Rep. Morrison contacted this councilmember last week, she was assured of significant dissatisfaction with UH among Sugar Land community leaders. Morrison said that she had received no input from the Chancellor of the University, or any other official response to her bill. She is apparently being ignored, and compares the University’s response to the response which Victoria has received to its requests for improvements to its campus over the past several years. Apparently, Glenn Hegar is planning to introduce a companion bill in the Texas Senate, but it will omit the Sugar Land campus from the transfer to A&M. This concession is being made because a few Sugar Land leaders apparently believe that the time for decisive action has not yet arrived. Mayor Jimmy Thompson has said he will testify against Morrison’s bill in the legislature. The problem is, of course, that if no decision is made to support Morrison’s bill within the next two weeks or so, Sugar Land’s opportunity to make a change during the current legislative session will die. It will be two years before another opportunity for change arises. The University appears to be in the process of delaying commitments to Sugar Land just long enough to assure that no decisive action can occur. If you are concerned about the Sugar Land campus, please send your comments to rjones@sugarlandtx.gov and tell community leaders how you feel. Jones is a member of the Sugar Land City Council, having been first elected in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.
Musings: Things coming along By JANICE SCANLAN If you haven’t been to Texas Parkway lately, take a drive over. While there is still a lot of construction and it’s a little difficult to see where they are going on the west side of the Parkway, it is easy to see where the sidewalk on the east side is going . . . The sidewalk is coming along and is close to half finished. It curves and adds some interest. We know it will be used because pedestrians had already been making their own paths where sidewalks didn’t exist. Add there was no pedestrian alternatives to get to Missouri City Junior High . . . from the Cartwright and Parkway area. Liz Lyles and I tried to find a way to cobble a path to Missouri City Junior High, even using the sidewalks in Stafford. We drove around for more than two hours. You couldn’t get to Missouri City Junior High safely from all the sub-divisions along Texas Parkway. And we’re worried about youth obesity and lack of exercise? Our school bus fleet continues to grow . . . what if we encouraged less expensive, low maintenance alternatives? When I was a Fort Bend Grand Juror in the late 80’s, one of our cases was a bicyclist who was riding and killed on Texas Parkway at night. As a Grand Juror, we relied on each juror
Scanlan who was familiar with an area to provide context for deciding whether to true or no bill a case to a jury. This case fell in my area. I was ashamed to say that Texas Parkway was a narrow road, with five foot bar ditches, no shoulders, and worse no lighting. It only took over 20 years to begin to change this dangerous major thoroughfare for pedestrians. With the curved sidewalks, there is potential for this to not only enhance safety, recreation and health; but also enhance community appearance. However, there is no landscape plan. Since taxpayers paid for all these studies, renderings and plans, it would be nice to see the city actually have a community meeting where they answered what’s next to beautify this area . . . but in a larger sense what’s our vision to better provide these benefits throughout Missouri City?
Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
www.fbindependent.com Email: Editor@fbindependent.com
We still have not reduced the dangers of walking or bicycling to Quail Valley Middle School or Quail Valley Elementary— talk about schools with no transportation alternatives. Like the Parkway residents, we would be tickled to get sidewalks along one side of El Dorado Boulevard, Bermuda Dunes, La Quinta and the section of Robinson Road next to Stafford Run. And there are difficulties of walking and biking to Lantern Lane Elementary as well. With more traffic coming to the Quail Valley Golf Course, it just galls me to see children have no option but to walk down the middle of El Dorado. We have an “under bridge” trail from the Colonies, but you can’t use it to get to Quail Valley Middle School! And while we’re at it, do you think all the new restaurants in the “mid town” area would benefit from a sidewalk along Glenn Lakes to Highway 6? Now, there’s health, safety and promoting business issues that I hope the candidates address. However, I’ve often wondered if city and school elections take place in the spring because it is so beautiful so we don’t pay attention? And what beautiful weather we’ve had! Write to janicescanlan@ earthlink.net.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)
Guest Column Measuring the success of FBISD By JIM RICE The challenges facing public education in our own school district as well as our state and nation have changed significantly from the time that most middle age adults attended public schools. As the cost for providing a quality education to ALL of our children has increased, a question that everyone wants answered is “How are our schools doing when it comes to educating our children?” In order to objectively answer this question, we must have a “yardstick” with which to fairly measure student performance. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has introduced several rating systems over the past 20 years and for 2010-2011 is still utilizing the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills test (TAKS). In addition to TEA requirements we must also comply with the federal government’s “No Child Left Behind” Act (NCLB) which utilizes a separate rating system entitled Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). The Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) is legally bound to comply with both of these rating systems as is every other school district in our state. FBISD has worked very hard to continuously improve the academic success of each student in our large and diverse district and has earned a Recognized rating from the TEA for the 2009-2010 school year (visit www.fortbend.k12.tx.us for results for each school). Additionally, each one of our elementary, middle and high schools, as well as our District has met the AYP requirements of NCLB. These are both
Writing Science Social Studies
Rice commendable achievements for a district of our size. At the February 14th FBISD Board hearing, Dr. Jan Moore, FBISD Director of Accountability and her staff presented the 2009-2010 Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS) report, which is also posted on the district’s website. This report shares information regarding educational achievement at the elementary and secondary levels as compared to last year’s performance, FBISD’s achievement compared to our region and state, as well as information on our special needs students and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) students, and more. The AEIS report indicates that in 2010 our students have made and continue to make solid progress in all measured areas, including commended scores for all subjects aggregated across all tested grade levels. The increases in commended scores in all subjects are listed below and are equal to or greater than those of the state averages. Commended TAKS Scores Reading/ELA +2 Math +1
+2 +3 +3
As previously noted the TAKS test and rating system were developed to serve as the “yardstick” the TEA uses to judge the performance of our individual schools as well as our entire district. Though we have been successful in achieving a “Recognized” District status, Fort Bend ISD continues to work hard towards achieving an “Exemplary” rating for each one of our schools and our district. As parents and grandparents it is our fondest wish to see our children and grandchildren enter adulthood prepared to take their rightful place as productive, successful, and contributing members of our society. To achieve this, it is imperative that ALL of our children receive a quality education in Kindergarten through 12th grade and be prepared to attend and graduate from college and/or receive licensures and certifications to pursue other rewarding career options. In spite of the budget challenges facing us, FBISD is committed to preparing our students for their future role as parents and community leaders by providing academic rigor in the classroom, and opportunities for learning life skills and enrichment through music, fine arts, sports and community service. Jim Rice was elected to the FBISD Board of Trustees in May 2010. These comments are his alone and he is not speaking on behalf of the Board.
Lowering blood pressure without medication By BRENT W. GALLOWAY, M.D. Usually without fail, I hear the same question coming from both men and women every day. “Doc, I know that I have high blood pressure, but I really don’t want to be on another pill. Is there any other way to lower my blood pressure without medication, because I would really like to try that first.” The answer, of course, is yes. There are a few tried and true methods to lower the blood pressure without adding another pill to your daily regimen. The first and most important is daily aerobic exercise. To put it simply, all you have to do is get your heart rate up for about thirty minutes at least five times a week. This has been proven to lower the blood pressure in people with high blood pressure and even in people with normal blood pressure. The trick is to find some-
Galloway thing that you can realistically do. To be sure, most people cannot get out there and start running right away. So, find something that you can ease into, even if it is your favorite cardio work out tape or taking a brisk walk around your neighborhood a few times. Cardiovascular exercise is beneficial not only for your
Letter Two flaws in The case made for apartments To the Editor: That letter (Case made for more apartments by Les A. Newton, Independent, March 23, 2011) is obviously written by a big developer and biased toward big developers. Big developers make big money from selling off land to apartment developers. Two big flaws in the letter: - It says no apartments have been built in Sugar Land in recent years, BUT this fails to consider the multiple apartments built just outside of Sugar Land city limits (but with Sugar Land postal addresses) in recent years, especially north of Hwy 90A. Yet, none of this has created the retail/restaurants and similar the letter claims will arise with high-density developments, since most of that is still well south of Hwy 90A. - The Sugar Land and City Centre comparison is laughable. City Centre’s success is due to it being in one of the wealthiest zips in the entire metro (77024), which equals lots of money to spend by residents. And by being in a high-traffic, very visible location (Beltway and I-10). Not because it has high-density around it. Sarah Philips
blood pressure, but also has other positive side effects such as raising your level of ‘good’ cholesterol. Be consistent, don’t give up! If nothing else you may be able to save some money at the pharmacy. In fact, your dog will love you even more for your new lifestyle change. I have had patients do this and lower their blood pressure or even come off some of their medications. It is always more enjoyable to take someone off of a medication than to place them on a new one! Stay tuned for more information on more natural ways to lower the blood pressure in the near future. In the meantime, feel free to make an appointment to discuss your blood pressure control. Call Family Practice of Fort Bend in Sugar Land at 281-265-3456 and ask to see Dr. Galloway.
Correction In the article “Case made for more apartments,” published last week, in the print edition, there was a typographical error. The following version is the correct one. For example, let’s look at the comparative population of City Centre near Town and Country Village to SH6 and US59 in Sugar Land: Radius 1 Mile; 5 Mile; 10 Mile City Centre 11,460; 387,790; & 1,490,134 Sugar Land (Hwy6/59) 10,363; 207,094; & 874,834
MARCH 30, 2011 • INDEPENDENT • Page 5
Spirituality and End-of-Life Care: Methodist Sugar Land Hospital hosts Living with grief program On May 3, join the Hospice Foundation of America (HFA) for their 18th Annual National Bereavement Program. With this year’s focus on “Spirituality and End-ofLife Care,” the program provides an opportunity for a wide variety of professionals to share and exchange ideas, as well as obtain continuing education credits. Chaplain Bill Bross, Director of Spiritual Care and Values Integration for Methodist Sugar Land Hospital says, “This is a unique opportunity
for clergy and healthcare professionals in our area to explore and discuss the end of life journey from a spiritual perspective. Spiritual matters are on the minds and hearts of our patients as they near the end of life. It is important for those of us who provide their care to be prepared to honor their questions and their journey.” Frank Sesno, Director of the School of Media and Public Affairs at The George Washington University will team up with a panel of noted
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2010,County Civil Court-At-Law No.1 of Harris County, Texas in cause 963854701in favor of the plaintiff—-WHOLESALE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY ETC,, Plaintiff, for the sum of $70,000.00++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 7TH Day of MARCH, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) RIDDLE POWER, LLC, ELIZABETH RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY AND RODNEY RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas;
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2010,County Civil Court-At-Law No.1 of Harris County, Texas in cause 963854701in favor of the plaintiff—-WHOLESALE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY ETC,, Plaintiff, for the sum of $70,000.00++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 7TH Day of MARCH, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) RIDDLE POWER, LLC, ELIZABETH RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY AND RODNEY RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas;
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: MARBILL ESTATES, LOT 26 & (S.50’) OF LOT 27 CROSS REFERENCE: 4750-00000-2600-907 ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $55,830.00
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: MARBILL ESTATES, LOT 28 CROSS REFERENCE: 4750-00-000-2800-907
Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM.
Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM.
ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09-DCV-170183 in favor of the Plaintiff WATERSIDE ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, for the sum of $5,675.23 ++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the3RD day of MARCH, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) LISA BRADLEY, DERON BRADLEY AND JAY RODRIGUEZ had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT SIXTY FIVE (65), BLOCK TWO (2) OF WATERSIDE VILLAGE, SECTION ONE (1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 2098/A OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNT, TEXAS MORE COMMOMLY DESCRIBED 4926 TAYLOR LAKE COURT, RICHMOND, TEXAS 77407. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $77,530.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 1ST day of MARCH, 2011 by the COUNTY CIVIL COURT AT LAW NUMBER THREE (3) Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 06-CCV-029275 MISSION BEND CIVIC IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, for the sum of $9,423.00++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 3rd Day of MARCH, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) OLUJIMI VAUGHN AND MUJIDAT VAUGHN had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas;
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09DCV-175161 in favor of the Plaintiff WATERSIDE ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, for the sum of $15,987.86++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 11TH Day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) A. KIRK WILLIAMS, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: GEO: 75502300512409071 CPC: R114348I ALL THAT CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND CONTAINING 9323 SQUARE FEET OF LAND BEING A PORTION OF LOT 124, BLOCK 5 OF SUGAR CREEK, SECTION 23, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 17, PAGE 13 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ACCOUNT NO. 7550230051240907 ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $574,370.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
MARKET VALUE:$19,400.00
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 25, IN BLOCK 11, OF MISSION BEND SOUTH SECTION 1, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 19, PAGE 12 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $100,940.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of JANUARY, 2011, by the 240TH DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #09-DCV-171080 in favor of the plaintiff—GRAND LAKES MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT #1,, Plaintiff, for the sum of $28,970.91++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH Day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) MARTHA L. SAENZ AKA MARTHA ANDRADE, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: CPC: 35310400202509141 LOT 25, IN BLOCK 2, OF GRAND LAKES, PHASE THREE, SECTION 4, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN AN INSTRUMENT FILED IN THE REAL PROPERTY RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS UNDER CLERK’S FILE NUMBER 2003135491 ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $236,160.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
authorities to deliver an exciting program that is instrumental in educating healthcare professionals and families on issues affecting end-of-life care. The program will be held at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital on May 3, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Main Pavilion Conference Rooms. To RSVP or for more information, call the Spiritual Care and Values Integration Department at 281-274-7164 or email SNBowman@tmhs. org.
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 28TH day of JANUARY, 2011 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09-DCV-172633 in favor of the Plaintiff HUNTINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, for the sum of$1,991.00 ++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 17TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) DEYSI MENDOZA had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 19, BLOCK 40, OF HUNTINGTON VILLAGE, SECTION 4, A SUBDIVISION OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AT VOLUME 208, PAGE 24 IN THE MAP OR PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $101,490.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10:00 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of JANUARY, 2011 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09-DCV-175560 in favor of the Plaintiff FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $5,415.05 -H++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) EDUARDO NAVARRO AKA EDDIE NAVARRO, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. LEGAL DESCRIPTION: GEO: 8133220030130907 I CPC: R281159 I LOT THIRTEEN (13), IN BLOCK THREE (3), OF SIENNA VILLAGE OF SHIPMAN’S LANDING, SECTION TWELVE-B (12-B), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NO. 23791B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $187,390.00 Terms: Cash Sale to be held at about 10:00 A.M. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY REAL PROPERTY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 31st day of JANUARY, 2011 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09-DCV-172126 in favor of the Plaintiff HUNTINGTON VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. Plaintiff, for the sum of $3,860.74++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 24TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) CHERYL MAIER had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 10, BLOCK 37, OF HUNTINGTON VILLAGE, SECTION 4, FORT BEND, A SUBDIVISION OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AT VOLUME 14, PAGE 9 IN THE MAP OR PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $93,950.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or Precinct Three about 10:00 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
Dino-Mania at HMNS Sugar Land Do you have a dinosaur enthusiast in your home? Then bring your little dino-maniac and help The Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land celebrate everything dinosaur with its family event on Saturday, April 9, 10.am. to 2 p.m. It will be dino-filled with creative crafts and activities to test your dinosaur knowledge. All activities are included in the admission price. On Thursday, April 21, Wildlife Labs - A New Food NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 22ND day of DECEMBER, 2010,County Civil Court-At-Law No.1 of Harris County, Texas in cause 963854701in favor of the plaintiff—-WHOLESALE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY ETC,, Plaintiff, for the sum of $70,000.00++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 7TH Day of MARCH, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) RIDDLE POWER, LLC, ELIZABETH RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY AND RODNEY RIDDLE, INDIVIDUALLY had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: MARBILL ESTATES, LOT 27 (N 50’) CROSS REFERENCE: 4750-00-000-2700-907 MARKET VALUE:$7,500.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY REAL PROPERTY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24th day of JANUARY, 2011 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause # 09-DCV-172986 in favor of the Plaintiff FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Plaintiff, for the sum of$11,091.79 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) ERIC ROBERTO GARCIA had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: GEO: 3300000114800907 I CPC: R65564 I BEING TRACT FORTY-EIGHT (48), IN BLOCK ELEVEN (11) OF FRESNO GARDENS ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 297, PAGE 350, DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $14,850.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10:00 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
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 JAN, 24, 2011 in cause numbered 09DCV173447 styled Colony Lakes Homeowners Assoc Inc. vs. RODERICK T. MARSHALL AND ROSHELL M. MARSHALL JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, in which a judgment was rendered on OCT 29, 2009 in favor of ColonyLakes Homeowners Assoc for the sum of ONE THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED FIFTEEN DOLLARS AND FOUR CENTS ($1415.04); 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 FEB 22, 2011 and will on APRIL 5, 2011 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 RODERICK T. MARSHALL AND ROSHELL M. MARSHALL to and in the following described Real Property: Lot Twenty-six (26), in Block one (1) of Colony Lakes, Section five (5), an addition in Fort Bend County, Texas, according to the plat thereof recorded in slide No(s) 1472/A and 1472/b of the map/plat records of Fort Bend County, Texas The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of Colony Lakes Homeowners Assoc, Inc Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: APRIL 5, 2011 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 am BY: Sergeant M. Kutach TROY E. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas
Pyramid will be held at the HMNS, Sugar Land. It’s eat or get eaten as the musuem studies the ecological pyramid with some live specimens. Regular Exhibit Halls are free with the purchase of the science lab for the student and the adult accompanying the student. If the parent wishes to participate in the class they will need to purchase a separate ticket for themselves. 9:30a.m. - Grades 1-2 11a.m. Grades 3-4 1p.m. - Grades 5-8
Registration $10. Spring Cleaning Shredding Event will be held Saturday, April 23, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Doing spring cleaning and need to get rid of the piles of paper that you have accumulated? HMNS offers free onsite, secure document shredding for each family who either buys tickets or purchase tickets that day. Members who buy three tickets to the Dig Pit will be eligible for free shredding as well.
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY REAL PROPERTY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 10th day of FEBRUARY, 2011 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #10DCV-179948 in favor of the Plaintiff FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Plaintiff, for the sum of $7,851.70+++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 23RD day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) BRIARGATE TOWNHOUSE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO: 95500101168599071 CPC: R21158 UNIT 6859, BLDG. “11” OUT OF RESERVE “A” OF WILLOW PARK, SECTION ONE, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 11, PAGE 5 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $27,150.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of JANUARY, 2011, by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #10-DCV-178553 in favor of the plaintiff—CINCO MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT #8, Plaintiff, for the sum of $10,037.95++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH Day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s)JOHN TRISTAN SERPA, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas;
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY REAL PROPERTY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 10th day of FEBRUARY, 2011 by the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #06-DCV-150914 in favor of the Plaintiff FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Plaintiff, for the sum of $4,743.72+++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 23RD day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) RENE D. CANTU, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO: 3350000030500907\ CPC: R259990 LOT 5 IN BLOCK C OF FRESNO GARDENS DELUXE, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 324, PAGE 4460F THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $51,010.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10:00 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: CPC: 2251020050020914/LOT TWO (2), BLOCK FIVE (5), IN CANYON GATE AT CINCO RANCH, SECTION TWO (2), AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 17271B OF THE MAP/ PLAT RECORDS, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ACCOUNT NO. 2251020050020914 ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $180,100.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 27TH day of JANUARY, 2011, by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #06-DCV-153848 in favor of the plaintiff— FORT BEND COUNTY, ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $8,154.24++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 11th Day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) RICHARD THOMAS, JR; ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: GEO: 2175010241150907 / 1939010700056/ CPC: R57690 I/ LOT 115 IN BLOCK 24 OF BRIAR VILLA, SECTION 1, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NUMBER 5711 A OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $82,140.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY REAL PROPERTY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 2011 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #06-DCV-153104 in favor of the Plaintiff FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Plaintiff, for the sum of $24,254.40 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s) ANNA LEE CANGELOSI, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: GEO: 0064000001306907 CPC: R36590 A TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE WILLIAM NEAL SURVEY, ABSTRACT 64, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; BEING PART OF A LARGER TRACT DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED FROM ETHELLA C. GUICE TO JOHN CANGELOSI DATED MAY 27, 1969 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 515, PAGE 441 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; SPECIFICALLY, BEING THE REST AND RESIDE OF THE LARGER TRACT AFTER CONVEYANCES OF THE FOLLOWING PORTIONS THEREOF: A) A TRACT CONTAINING 1.89 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED DATED FROM EMMA LEWIS TO BRAZOS VALLEY IRRIGATION COMPANY DATED MARCH 8,1937 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 746, PAGE 760 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; B) A TRACT CONTAINING 0.43 ACRE,; MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED FROM MILLIE JOHNSON TO BRAZOS VALLEY IRRIGATION COMPANY DATED MARCH 8, 1937 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 746, PAGE 762 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS.; C) A TRACT CONTAINING 13.353 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A CORRECTION DEED FROM JOHN C. CANGELOSI AND WIFE TO NATIONAL COUPLING COMPANY, INC. DATED OCTOBER 20,1970 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 535, PAGE 796 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; D) A TRACT CONTAINING 1.0603 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED FROM JOHN C. CANGELOSI AND WIFE TO P & P CONSTRUCTION CO. DATED JUNE 18, 1979 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 1406, PAGE 315 OF THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; E) A TRACT CONTAINING 3.5105 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED FROM JOHN C. CANGELOSI AND WIFE TO RAYMOND M. CORTEZ ET AL DATED APRIL 22, 1983 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 1211, PAGE 522 OF THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; F) A TRACT CONTAINING 1.0161 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS AS TRACT 3 IN A DEED FROM JOHN C. CANGELOSI AND WIFE TO JULIAN RINCONES AND WIFE DATED OCTOBER 19, 1983 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 2254, PAGE 1189 OF THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; AND A TRACT CONTAINING 0.9791 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS AS TRACT 4IN A DEED FROM JOHN C. CANGELOSI AND WIFE JULIAN RINCONES AND WIFE DATED OCTOBER 19, 1983 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 2254, PAGE 1189 OF THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10:00 AM. ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317
Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 30, 2011
First Urinary Sphincter at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Methodist Sugar Land Hospital now specializes in the new treatment option for men suffering from stress urinary incontinence (SUI). By implanting the first Urinary Artificial Sphincter, Lawrence Baum, M.D., board certified urologist and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital are leading the way in improving men’s health and quality of life. A man’s quality of life can be measured in several different ways such as having the ability to confidently get out of the house to enjoy a fishing trip with friends or a romantic night out with a loved one. Unfortunately, many men are unable to do these things without worrying about the embarrassing effects of SUI. “SUI is a bladder control problem that is often caused by damage to the sphincter, the muscle that controls the flow of urine out of the bladder,” said Dr. Baum. “Damage to the sphincter is often a result of neurologic dysfunction or surgery on the prostate. The damaged sphincter loses the ability to squeeze and close off the urethra (tube that passes urine from the bladder to outside of the body). This causes the urine to leak, especially during physical activity such as lifting, sneezing or cough-
Baum ing.” Because persistent incontinence can limit a man’s activities, he is forced to use uncomfortable and unreliable solutions such as clamps or pads. These temporary solutions can be costly and messy and leave the wearer with the constant fear of noticeable leakage or odor. Fortunately, there are other, permanent options now being used at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. The AMS 800TM Urinary Control System has proven to be an effective technique used to treat moderate to severe incontinence. This treatment is a minimally invasive surgery that will permanently treat uncontrollable bladder problems. How it works: A device known as an artificial sphincter is placed inside the patient’s body. The artificial sphincter is able to mimic
a healthy sphincter, proving the patient with simple, discreet control of the bladder. The AMS 800 consists of 3 connected components: an inflatable cuff (implanted around the urethra), a control pump (implanted in the scrotum), and a pressure-regulated balloon (implanted in the abdomen). The user is able to control urination by squeezing the pump to pull the fluid out of the cuff and send it to the balloon. This action empties the cuff, relieving the pressure being placed on the urethra, which was originally holding it closed. Without pressure on the urethra, urine is able to flow out of the bladder. The cuff automatically re-inflates within 2 to 3 minutes, reapplying pressure to close the urethra once the urine flow has subsided. The AMS 800 has treated many men safely and effectively and consequently greatly improved their quality of life. Without the worry of urinary leakage, men are able to sustain their confidence and focus more on their relationships and activities. To make an appointment with Dr. Baum or a urologist in your area, call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line281-274-7500, or visit MethodistSugarLand.com.
Gail Parker to leave Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Board Chairman, Kamal Ariss, last week announced the resignation of Chamber President/ CEO Gail Parker. Parker’s last day on the job will be May 12. Recently in the news for her positive outlook as she deals with treatment for an aggressive form of breast cancer while continuing to lead the Chamber, Parker said that after a great deal of prayer, thought and conversations with her husband, Randy, she simply decided it was time to redirect her energy. Parker was hired for her current position in December 2003. During her tenure, the 100-year-old organization’s membership grew from 400 to 800 and it became fiscally sound and financially stable; the Chamber building in Rosenberg, circa 1977, was fully renovated; the 3-member staff doubled to six; the scope of the Chamber was enhanced to include other communities; and it was renamed to reflect its growth and expansion. Parker also worked to engage more member participation, creating various new departments and divisions, including the first Young Professionals and Hispanic Business groups to be introduced in Fort Bend County. Under her guidance, the Chamber’s Infrastructure Department has hosted the very successful Fort Bend Regional Infrastructure Conference for six consecutive years, also a first in this area, attracting more than 200 attendees from all over the greater Houston Area and speakers from across the State. Art Roberts, recently retired Senior Vice President of the State chamber, the Texas Association of Business (TAB) holds Parker and the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance in high regard. He noted that “Gail Parker and a corps of outstanding business leaders have built one of the most dynamic chambers in the State of Texas.” Roberts will soon be working with the Chamber’s newly named search committee, focused on locating Parker’s successor.
When a s k e d what’s next for Parker, she said she plans on using the rest of 2011 to Parker take better care of herself and become a cancer “survivor.” With still more chemotherapy, surgery and possible radiation in her future, Parker is maintaining her upbeat attitude. She notes that she has a lot of other things on her plate requiring her strength and attention, such as her 84-year old mother, who she recently relocated from Victoria to a local assisted living center. She also glowingly talks about their four grandchildren and wanting to be more available for them. Parker is looking forward to a healthy 2012, when she and her husband plan to resume a hobby they are both passionate about – traveling. Following Parker’s departure, Ariss also announced that Angie Sanders, current development director at the Chamber, will begin serving as Interim President, continuing through the search process, which Roberts says could take “six months or more for a Chamber of this size and stature”. He anticipates receiv-
ing candidates from across the State and beyond. Sanders came to the Chamber with a Sanders s i g n i f i c a n t amount of qualifications, most recently serving as the Executive Director of the non-profit, Fort Bend Lawyers Care in Richmond. Preceding that, Sanders, who has a BA in Journalism from the University of Southern California and a Masters in Recreation, Park & Tourism with a focus on Economic Development, from Western Illinois University. She was the event specialist for the City of Pearland, and served as Executive Director of Louisa Development Group in Wapello, Iowa. She is a Peace Corps Fellow, served in the Peace Corps for two years in Africa, and she was an international exchange student at the Australian National University in Canberra, Australia. Sanders is engaged to Paul Wierzbicki, and lives in Missouri City. For more information about the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, or how to contact Gail Parker, call 281342-5464, stop by the office at 4120 Avenue H in Rosenberg, or visit www.CFBCA.org.
LEGAL NOTICE The City of Missouri City, Texas is now issuing an Invitation for Bids for the following: IFB # 182-11 Term Contract for Concrete Pavement Lifting and Sidewalk Cutting Scope: The City of Missouri City intends to hire one or more general contractor(s) to provide all material, labor, and equipment necessary to perform repairs to: 1) settled concrete sidewalk pavement by jacking the slab with cementatious slurry material; 2) saw cutting to level settlement of concrete slabs; 3) perform street raising for the purpose of eliminating swales, birdbaths and related pavement failures on concrete thoroughfares; all at various locations in the City on an as-needed basis. The vendor will provide all materials, equipment and labor necessary to perform in accordance with the specifications. Bids will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. local time April 11, 2011 and then opened. The bid packages may be obtained beginning March 23rd by requesting the document name and number listed above from the Purchasing Office at (281) 403-8626; (281) 403-8612, or email charles@missouricitytx.gov Bids must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the IFB name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Bids must be delivered to the attention of the Sealed Bid Box, City of Missouri City Purchasing Office, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, Texas, 77489, prior to the acceptance deadline. Bids marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Bids are opened in public in the City Hall Council Chambers. Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Missouri City, 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, APRIL 7, 2011 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 11-061 – 15’ SHREDDERS Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are not required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas
LEGAL NOTICE 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, APRIL 7, 2011 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. 1.RFP 11-058 - ETHERNET SERVICE FOR JUSTICE CENTER; 2.RFP 11-059 – DRUG TESTING SYSTEM FOR JUVENILE PROBATION. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas
NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE NOTICE OF LEVY Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of JANUARY, 2011, by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of Fort Bend County, Texas in cause #10-DCV-178553 in favor of the plaintiff—CINCO MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT #8, Plaintiff, for the sum of $10,037.95++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. Therefore, on the 10TH Day of FEBRUARY, 2011, I, Constable Rob Cook of Precinct Three Fort Bend County, have levied on and have seized all rights, title, interest, and claim to which the said Defendant(s)JOHN TRISTAN SERPA, ET AL had of, in, or to the following described real property, and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of APRIL, 2011 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours often o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the above defendant had of, in, or to the following described real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; LEGAL DESCRIPTION: CPC: 2251020050020914/LOT TWO (2), BLOCK FIVE (5), IN CANYON GATE AT CINCO RANCH, SECTION TWO (2), AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 17271B OF THE MAP/ PLAT RECORDS, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ACCOUNT NO. 2251020050020914 ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE: $180,100.00 Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final. Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check, or Money Order Sale to be held at or about 10 AM.
Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Bellaire Boulevard from Canal Road to FM 723 to establish school zones for Westlake Lutheran Academy School, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, 309 South Fourth St., Suite 700, William B. Travis Bldg., Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter. 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, APRIL 14, 2011 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 11-054 – TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION PROJECTS: MASON ROAD AT NORTHMOOR DR., HIGHLAND KNOLLS AT GREENWAY VILLAGE DR., AND CINCO RANCH BLVD AT GASTON ROAD A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 9:00 AM (CST). The pre-bid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Rosenberg Annex at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas 77471. All bidders are encouraged to attend. Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. 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 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, APRIL 21, 2011 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 11-060 – GENERAL CONTRACTOR SERVICES-FORT BEND COUNTY PAVING, WATER AND GRADING IMPROVEMENT FOR FORT BEND COUNTY PARK AND RIDE ON HIGHWAY 36 IN THE CITY OF ROSENBERG, TEXAS A Pre-RFP conference with site visits will be conducted on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 9:00 AM (CST). The Pre-RFP conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Rosenberg Annex at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas 77471. All bidders are encouraged to attend. Lump sum pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Cinco Ranch Southwest, Section 30, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom, 309 South Fourth St., Suite 700, William B. Travis Bldg., Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REZONING .862 ACRES AUSTIN PARKWAY AND AUTUMN LAKES PERMANENT ZONING .862 ACRES, LAKEFIELD SECTION TWO, RESERVE C, FROM STANDARD SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R-1) TO NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS (B-1) DISTRICT, BEING FURTHER IDENTIFIED AS THE EXISTING COMMERCIAL CENTER WEST OF AUSTIN PARKWAY AND SOUTH OF THE INTERSECTION OF AUSTIN PARKWAY AND STATE HIGHWAY 6 PURPOSE: ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED PERMANENT ZONING SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. WHERE:
CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH
WHEN:
CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00 P.M., APRIL 19, 2011
DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED ZONING MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND PLANNING OFFICE, TELEPHONE (281) 275-2218 OR EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. THE PLANNING OFFICE IS OPEN MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 8:00 O’CLOCK A.M. TO 5:00 O’CLOCK P.M., AND IS LOCATED IN CITY HALL, 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS. PLEASE CONTACT US IF YOU WISH TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO GO OVER ADDITIONAL DETAILS IN PERSON. Vicinity Map:
ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Deputy constable J. MORALES, #1317 THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF SISSIERETTA J WOOTEN DECEASED AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THIS LAND NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being April 25, 2011 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 401 Jackson Street. We are located on the first floor of the courthouse building. The case is presently pending before the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on March 08, 2011. It bears cause number 11-DCV-188250 and is styled: Jose Serrano and Rosa M. Serrano vs All Unknown Heirs of Sissieretta J Wooten, Deceased and any and all Unknown Persons Claiming an Interest in this Land. The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: BRENT A LANE BEARD & LANE PC 12841 JONES ROAD SUITE 100 HOUSTON TX 77070 281-897-8848 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER; PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: 1. A BRIEF STATEMENT OF THE NATURE OF THE SUIT - TRCP 114 “THIS IS A SUIT BY PLAINTIFF TO ESTABLISH OWNERSHIP TO THE PROPERTY BY ADVERSE POSSESSION.” 2. A DESCRIPTION OF ANY PROPERTY INVOLVED - TRCP 114 & 115” LOT TWENTY (20), BLOCK THIRTY-ONE (31) OF RIDGEWOOD ESTATES, SOUTHWEST SECTION, STREET ADDRESS: 519 DOGWOOD AVE, FRESNO, TEXAS 77545.” 3. 42 DAYS TO ANSWER LAWSUIT INSTEAD OF THE NORMAL 20 DAYS -TRCP 114 If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 10th day of March, 2011. DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas Deputy District Clerk Kimberly Coker Telephone: 281-633-7617
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REZONING 15.9 ACRES TELFAIR CENTRAL COMMERCIAL PERMANENTLY ZONING 15.9 ACRES TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (PD) DISTRICT (GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN), FURTHER DESCRIBED AS BEING THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF NEW TERRITORY BOULEVARD AND UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD PURPOSE: ONE (1) PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE HELD AT WHICH ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE PROPOSED PERMANENT ZONING SHALL BE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. WHERE:
CITY OF SUGAR LAND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH
WHEN:
CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00 P.M., APRIL 19, 2011
DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED PERMANENT ZONING MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND PLANNING OFFICE (281) 275-2218 OR EMAIL PLANNING@SUGARLANDTX.GOV. THE PLANNING OFFICE IS OPEN MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 8:00 O’CLOCK A.M. TO 5:00 O’CLOCK P.M., AND IS LOCATED IN CITY HALL, 2700 TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD NORTH, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS. PLEASE CONTACT US IF YOU WISH TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO GO OVER ADDITIONAL DETAILS IN PERSON. Vicinity Map:
MARCH 30, 2011 • INDEPENDENT • Page 7
FILM REVIEW: Sucker Punch The star of this movie is Director and Co-writer Zack Snyder. The techniques used in this movie will be copied and tweaked for years. Snyder’s implementation of music, visual effects and digital artistry is magical. Camera angles and editing were sometimes at a rapid clip then quickly changed to slow motion, up-close and/or a tender touch of humanity. Such colors and cinematography combinations are rare without the induction of psychedelic drugs and I’m giving Snyder the benefit of the doubt and assume that he was sober when creating this movie. I’m just saying. At 44, Snyder is a young director, but he has already brought “300” and “Watchmen” to the big screen so that should give you an inkling of his creative mind. I intend to monitor his career more
closely now that we’ve shared the experience of “Sucker Punch.” I’m trying to write a review about this movie but the truth requires that I disclose that I’m not sure I fully
understood this movie. No, I’m confident I did not. I need to see this movie again and I’d love to see it with Snyder. He provided a tremendous amount of information and it was com-
ing at me too fast. The story sounds simple: a young woman named Baby Doll (Emily Browning) is institutionalized by her evil stepfather after her mother
AUTOMOBILE: Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicle (PHV) is based on the third generation Prius and is currently in demonstration programs on the west and east coasts even though it won’t be for sale until 2012. I’m going to tell you about it now because it can operate as an all-electric vehicle for 13 miles and while in that mode reach 60 miles per hour. What’s different about the PHV is it uses lithium-ion batteries for the all-electric mode. For long distances it runs like a regular Prius – on a combination gasoline engine and battery powered motors. Why the PHV is news is because it alleviates the issue of limited cruising range encountered with pure electric vehicles and gets an estimated 50 miles per gallon. Toyota has set up demonstration programs in Japan, Europe and now the U.S. to get in-use driving feedback and understand customer expectations for plug-in technology. On the technical side, two goals of the program are to confirm, in a wide variety of
real world applications, the overall performance of Toyota’s first generation, lithiumion battery technology and spur the development of public access charging station infrastructure. While it will be another year before the PHV is sold, by then Toyota will have a lot more answers for consumers thanks to the current demonstration program. Sometime this year dashboard data from the demonstration programs will be posted on www.toyota.com/ESQ. The data is expected to help consumers understand how plug-in hybrid vehicles are being used, how they are performing and if such would
be the right vehicle for them. As the vehicles rack up miles the data on fuel economy, miles driven, charge incidents and additional content will be posted online. Right now Toyota knows that its PHV has a driving range of only some 13 miles of battery power but they kept the range that short because the smaller the battery the better, both from a total carbon footprint standpoint and price. Research done at Carnegie Mellon University shows that plug-in hybrid vehicles with smaller batteries, charged frequently (every 20 miles or less) with electricity produce less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional hybrid ve-
RE/MAX Fine Properties donates $5250 to The Arc of Fort Bend County Minesh Patel, co-owner and Rick Cushenberry, Realtor at RE/MAX Fine Properties, located at 4500 Hwy 6, in Sugar Land, donated $5,250 to The Arc of Fort Bend to offset the remodeling costs of their recently purchased home in Rosenberg. The Arc, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advocacy organization, provides recreational programs and advocacy services for individuals with intellectual and related developmental disabilities in Ft. Bend County. A primary focus of The Arc is to advocate for the inclusion of its clients in all aspects of our community. To accomplish Learn American Red Cross Community First Aid with CPR Adult, Child and Infant on, Tuesday, April 5, and, Thursday, April 7, 6-10:30 p.m. Preregistration is required at www.houstonredcross.org or contact Shia at 281 3429480. American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training class geared for ages 11-15. Saturday, April 16, 8:30 a.m – 3:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required at www.houstonredcross.org or contact Shia at 281 342-9480.
this, The Arc leases homes at below market rates to qualified, state approved, providers who operate them as group homes. “The money saved on the reduced lease rates is then used by the
hicles. A driver who regularly takes trips of fewer than 13 miles and charges the battery often may have no miles per gallon because the vehicle will use no gas. When plugged in to a 110-watt socket, the PVH draws approximately one kilowatt per hour and takes about three hours to fully charge. The effect on your electricity bill will depend on how often you charge the vehicle and what your electricity rate is. In the past, such issues as weight, size and cost of the large capacity batteries required to offer a satisfactory electric vehicle range and the lack of adequate public recharging infrastructure have been major barriers to mass market electric vehicle acceptance. Toyota believes its PVH has addressed these issues thanks to current battery development progress and costs, so the manufacturer sees plug in hybrid vehicles “as the most realistic way to use grid electrical power for vehicle propulsion.” Only time will tell if their vision is correct. providers to offer increased services to the clients living in the homes. We sincerely appreciate the support of Minesh Patel and Rick Cushenberry of RE/MAX Fine Properties”, commented Laura LaVigne, Executive Director. RE/MAX Fine Properties regularly supports The Arc by sponsoring a silent auction “Corral” each year at The Arc’s annual “Best in the West” fundraiser. Last year the RE/MAX Corral netted $2558 for The Arc! Pictured left to right: Rick Cushenberry, Realtor and Board member of The Arc, Laura LaVigne, Executive Director and Minesh Patel, RE/ MAX Fine Properties.
and sister die and the staff at the Vermont facility for the insane plan to give her a lobotomy. Baby Doll retreats to an alternative reality as a coping strategy while she plans her escape. I think there were three realities but who’s counting. While creating the alternative realties of the film, Director Snyder either took a hit of peyote or has played one too many video games and became quite comfortable in the fantasy stream of consciousness for Baby Doll and her cohorts Sweat Pea, Rocket, Blondie, and Amber. We travelled back and forth between worlds in a flash and most often just in the nick of time. The cast was not the problem; the script was disjointed and made empathy for Baby Doll and the other girls nearly impossible. I think this movie was genius, but I don’t know for sure. It is a combination of “The Matrix,” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” with
just a pinch of “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Problem: I did not enjoy most of the movie. Accolades: Oscar Isaac as the slimy Blue Jones and Carla “Entourage” Gugino as Dr. Vera Gorski, the conflicted psychiatrist. Jon Hamm even has a small but significant part. All of the young actresses as girls trapped with Baby Doll gave performances that will bode well for their careers. Listed in order of importance: Browning, Abbie Cornish, Jena Malone, Vanessa Hudgens, and Jamie Chan. And let’s not forget the venerable 69 year-old Scott Glenn as the “Wise Man.” I went to this movie, in part, because my good friend Jeff S. strongly urged me to see it and report back to him. So, here it is, Jeff. Rock ‘n Roll. Grade 79. Larry H.
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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • MARCH 30, 2011
Pat Somers named child advocate of the year
Imperial Performing Arts presents
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Pat Somers was named Child Advocate of the Year for 2010 at Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Annual Volunteer Celebration. The celebration was held February 17, at Safari Texas Ranch. The event was attended by almost 200 volunteers, partners and staff. This honor is awarded to individuals who understand what it takes to make a nonprofit grow, they actively work to increase its social capital in the community, and they demonstrate that “whatever it takes attitude”, according to Executive Director Ruthanne Mefford. “Pat sets an example for all of us every day about how caring, impactful and fun a Child Advocate volunteer can be.” Somers became a volunteer in 1992 and was a member of
March for meals
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Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels participated in the national 2011 March for Meals/ Mayors for Meals campaign. The day began with a breakfast reception and meal delivery campaign on Wednesday, March 23 and concluded with a “Charit-a-Bull” fundraising event at Bullritos in Rosenberg. “We believe that the March for Meals campaign was a success,” said Manuela Arroyos, CEO of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. “It was wonderful to see such a dynamic group of leaders in our community out serving meals to our seniors and spreading the word about our program. Not only did this program raise awareness of senior hunger in our community, it brought in a number of new
Left to Right: Child Advocates of Fort Bend CASA Program Director Metoyer Ellis, Brad Somers, Pat Somers and Child Advocates of Fort Bend Executive Director Ruthanne Mefford. Somers was named Child Advocate of the Year at the agency’s annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet on February 17. the agency’s very first volunteer training class. During her 19 years of service, she has
advocated for 17 children, often serving as an advocate on two cases at a time.
volunteers as well.” T h i s year, 45 elected officials, community leaders and Fort Bend Seniors representatives from Fort Bend County and surrounding cities, including Annie Belle Sherman with County Commissioner Rosenberg, Richard Morrison Richmond, Sugar Land, Fuls- event with Bullritos in Rosenhear, Needville, Village of berg. For every event flyer that Pleak, Missouri City and Kend- was presented on Wednesday, leton, delivered over 60 meals Bullritos donated 20 percent on behalf of Fort Bend Seniors of the check total. Meals on Wheels. In conjuncTo donate to Fort Bend Setion with the March for Meals/ niors, contact Kristin Weiss, Mayors for Meals campaign, Director of Development at Fort Bend Seniors Meals on 281-633-7057 or kweiss@ Wheels held a “Charit-a-bull” fortbendseniors.org
benefitting
ENTER TO WIN A DAY IN DESIGN INSPIRATION at the Houston Design Center. go to siennaplantation.com for more information and to buy tickets on line. 20 American Society of Interior Designers have come together to create a one-of-a-kind show home in Sienna Plantation. Fully furnished and loaded with new ideas, design and state-of-the-art appliances and technology features. Tickets are $15 at the door or www.siennaplantation.com Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 am to 4pm and Sunday from noon to 4pm. Private group tours and mini seminars featuring the ASID designer team are available. Check the website for details. When you are in Sienna to see the ASID show home—stay and tour 11 more beautifully furnished model homes. Maps will be available.
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