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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 2018
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City
Sheriff’s office gets national award West Fort Bend County poised for Crisis Intervention Program to become industrial hub
Fort Bend County has been recognized with the National Association of County’s achievement award for its innovative Crisis Intervention Program. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) is a specialized unit formed within the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and funded under federal grants that assists in helping individuals suffering from mental illness. The objective of the team is to work within the mental health provider network by assisting mental health consumers in crisis in reaching the appropriate care by diverting these individuals away from incarceration or emergency rooms when possible. The 10-member team utilizes specialized training and protocols to assist in these goals, and is involved in training other first
responders within the county in the recognition of mental illness. “Our Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) prioritizes the well-being of our citizens by linking law enforcement with behavioral health service,” said Sheriff Troy Nehls. “CIT serves as a gateway to treatment instead of incarceration, improving service to our community while also reducing costs to taxpayers. CIT routinely resolves crises with dignity and care, increasing trust with the vulnerable citizens CIT was designed to serve.” Nationally, awards are given in 18 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, information technology, health, civic engagement
and many more. “Our Crisis Intervention Team is a truly innovative means to place people into treatment rather than jail whenever possible based on the circumstances of each intervention,” said Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert. “This award is well deserved testimony that our CIT team is a valued expansion of our law enforcement response capabilities.” Members of the Crisis Intervention Team include, Sgt. Jerome Ellis; Dr. Connie Almeida; Deputy Theo Deaver, Deputy Kathy Drzata, Deputy Sonia Craig, Capt. Matt Carter; Deputy Michelle Guajardo, Deputy Michael Steiner, Deputy Gary Kidder, Deputy Alexander Rey, Lt. Scott Soland and Deputy Anthony DeLeon.
By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County, with a burgeoning population of 780,000 people is bracing up to meet the fast pace of economic growth by undertaking a flurry of mobility and infrastructure projects. At least 18 projects have been identified in the 2017 mobility bond in the Precinct 1 area to meet the economic growth as well as to ensure safety and ease traffic congestion, Pct. 1 Commissioner Vincent Morales told a meeting of the governmental affairs division of the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce in Rosenberg on May 25. At least $56 million has been earmarked as matching contribution for these projects to leverage more funds from cities and the Texas Department of Transportation, Morales said. As an estimated 30,000 people move into the county every year and the projected population of the county is expected to be 2.5 million by 2050, “We should have a robust mobility
Morales bond every four years,” Morales said. Besides the 2017 mobility bond projects, some of the unfinished projects identified in the 2007 and 2013 mobility bonds are also being expedited, he said. For example, the Williams Way project from US 59 to FM 762 which had been stalled, was
revived after Morales took office in 2016. This project is to improve mobility by creating a new north/ south connection from US 59 to FM 762. It is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Similarly, in the Greatwood area, Sansbury Boulevard from FM 762 to Canyon Lake Drive, will improve mobility between Crabb River Road and FM 762 by extending the existing road to connect to Williams Way and eventually FM 762. This $21 million project, with $4.4 million in bond money, is expected to begin in July and set for completion by January 2019. The commissioners court is expected to approve the contract for accelerated construction of an access road to an area, where Lamar CISD is building a new elementary school. The project should be completed in six months, Morales said. On the widening of I-69, which is now causing a conSee MORALES, Page 3
Missouri City earns Certificate of Achievement For Excellence in Financial Reporting For the 36th consecutive year, Missouri City has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. Missouri City’s CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR. “The sound financial management that went into earning this award for the 36th year in a row reflects Missouri City’s capacity to meet financial commitments throughout time,” City Manager Anthony Snipes said. “Residents and stakeholders are welcome to visit www.
The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF) will celebrate its 16th annual festivities by hosting four days of fun-filled activities from June 11 – 16, 2018. This annual celebration is family oriented, educational and a cultural experience that will include art exhibits, a movie in the park, the annual “One Mile of Smiles” parade and live music entertainment. Above, a scene from 2016 Missouri City Juneteenth Family Fun Day. For more information about this year’s events, visit www.mcjcf.com or call 281.816.6441. See story on Page 3. mctxfinance.com and easily access recent and past financial transparency documents such as City Budgets, Quarterly Investment Reports, Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR), check registers and more to further understand why we continue to meet these high financial management standards.” The Government Finance Officers Association is a major professional association that services the needs of nearly 19,000 appointed and elected local, state and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners. It provides top quality publications, training programs, services and products that are designed to enhance the skills and performance of those responsible for government finance policy and management. “Our citizens hold my staff
Serving Fort Bend County for 28 years!
and me to a high standard when it comes to fiscal stewardship, and we are proud to have their trust and confidence when it comes to managing the City’s budget on a year-to-year basis,” Snipes said. “The fact that we have been able to maintain this standard of excellence for more than three decades reflects our ongoing commitment to strategically manage the taxpayers’ dollars and to continuing a transparent process.” In 2017, Missouri City residents voted to approve a change in the City’s Fiscal Year to Oct. 1 – Sept. 30. With the changes in the budget cycle, planning for Fiscal Year 2019 has already begun. To ensure transparency throughout this new budget process and to educate citizens, staff has prepared a few frequently asked questions: http:// bit.ly/2EMXJpm.
Community Baby Shower Committee. Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land invites new and expectant moms – along with their partners and babies – to the annual Community Baby Shower from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m on Thursday, Aug. 2, in the Brazos Pavilion Conference Center on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. See story on Page 4.
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018
NEWS
Arc of Fort Bend County’s Annual Golf Classic set for June 18
Volunteers donate $24,000 to OakBend Medical Center
Gary Krueger, left, Owner, PG Professional Golf, Laura LaVigne, CEO, The Arc of Fort Bend County, Cheryl Olivier, The Arc of Fort Bend County, Beth Golson, Troy Engineering and James Patterson, Fort Bend County Commissioner, Precinct 4. Joe Freudenberger, left,CEO of OakBend Medical Center, Carolyn Todish, Volunteer and Manager of Gift Shop and Victoria Bedo, President of Volunteers. Join the Arc of Fort Bend in Fulshear, at 10:30 a.m, for Crew” will prepare the meal During the Volunteer Ap- silent auctions and bake sales when it comes to their generCounty June 18, Monday, the 24th annual Golf Classic. and Commissioner Patterson the day after Father’s Day, at Following 18 holes of golf, will conduct the live auction. preciation Luncheon held in and the sale of popcorn and osity. They are the gems of our Weston Lakes Country Club the, “Yeah-I-Do! Cook’n Register on line at www.arcof- the Joe and Doris Gurecky pickles in the lobby of the hospital and I am grateful evAtrium, the Polly Ryon Me- Jackson Street campus are do- ery day for their dedication to fortbend.org or call The Arc morial Hospital Auxiliary pre- nated to the hospital. OakBend.” office 281-494-5959. Not a sented a check to Joe FreudSince 2002, the organizaThe volunteers are actively golfer? Join the barbecue din- enberg, CEO of OakBend tion has donated a little over looking for new members and ner and auction at 5:00 p.m. Medical Center in the amount $600,238 to OakBend Medi- they encourage anyone that The Arc of Fort Bend Coun- of $24,000 to use toward the cal Center which has been has a few hours to donate to ty was founded in 1968 by par- renovations of the hospital’s used to purchased equipment volunteering to check out their ents who wanted to improve Skilled Nursing Facility. and help with renovations and organization. For more inforthe lives of their children who Each year proceeds from updates around the hospital. mation, log onto https://www. had intellectual and develop- sales from the Gift Shop, “Our volunteers are amaz- oakbendmedcenter.org/volunmental disabilities. which is run by the volunteers, ing,” stated Freudenberger, teering/ or call 281-633-4015. As a “grass roots” advo- and from fundraisers such as “they never cease to amaze me cacy organization, The Arc advocates for the inclusion of people with intellectual dis- social programs, housing supMonday-Friday 8-4:30pm; Full time abilities and developmental port and the largest Special disabilities (autism) into all Olympics program in the area. position,experienced housekeeper. Arc welcomes back, Troy parts of the community – from Plantation at Quail Valley Senior Living Construction and Classic classrooms to the workplace. Along with this advocacy, Chevrolet and appreciates 2815 cypress point Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459 it provides recreational and their generous support.
Position Available – Housekeeping
281-208-4470
ARE YOU PONDERING PREGNANCY? Join us for a prepregnancy seminar. Thursday, June 21 | 6 p.m. If getting pregnant is a matter you are seriously considering, don’t miss our expert panel discussion about your preparation for a healthy pregnancy. Topics will include: • Improving your fertility • Pregnancy after age 35 • How to have a healthy pregnancy
Brandi Compton-Joseph, MD OB-GYN
REGISTRATION REQUIRED Register online at events.houstonmethodist.org/pondering-sl or call 281.274.7500.
Jonathan Kim, MD Fertility Specialist 16655 Southwest Fwy. Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Sugar Land, TX 77479
INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018 • Page 3
NEWS Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation to host four days of family fun, music, art, food & outdoor movie
2017 Family Fun Day in the Park. Photo courtesy City of Missouri City. The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF) will celebrate its 16th annual festivities by hosting four days of fun-filled activities from June 11 – 16, 2018. This annual celebration is family oriented, educational and a cultural experience that will include art exhibits, a movie in the park, the annual “One Mile of Smiles” parade and live music entertainment. The mission of the MCJCF is to bring positive attention to the AfricanAmerican community while celebrating the Emancipation Proclamation. Mark your calendars and plan to attend the following celebrations: MONDAY – JUNE 11 Scholarship Golf Tournament •Quail Valley Golf Course, 2880 La Quinta Dr. •Registration begins at 7 a.m. •Tournament begins at 8 a.m. •Admission for an individual is $125 •Admission for a team of four is $500 •Award categories: Elected officials Women Over-all winner Register online at www. mcjcf.com. The funds raised at the MCJCF Scholarship Golf Tournament, provide
Morales From Page 1
stant headache to commuters, Morales said his office is working with TxDOT to ensure that the project is executed on the given time line and that the community is kept informed of the progress. In this context, he pointed out the role played by the precinct’s project manager Dwayne Grigor who helps communicate with TxDOT, the county and the community. The I-69 project will be completed in phases by 2020. Morales also mentioned the Hwy 36 widening project by TxDOT. The project up to Brazoria County line is under design and construction is expected in 2019. The segment up to I-69 and beyond will be constructed in future years. The improvement to Hwy 36 is key to job growth in the Rosenberg area, Morales said. The west end of the county is poised to become an industrial hub, he said. The area is primed for a logistics center and distribution and manufacturing facilities are expected to move in. The area will become a prime distribution center for cargo arriving in the Port of Freeport, which is deepening its waters to accommodate huge container ships sailing through the Panama Canal. Morales said the port itself would add between 10,000 and 20,000 new jobs, while west Fort Bend County will see between 5,000 and 10,000 new jobs, due to the projected economic growth.
scholarships for deserving Missouri City/Fort Bend County students. THURSDAY – JUNE 14 Community Service Awards Gala •City Centre at Quail Valley, 2880 La Quinta Dr. •Begins at 7 p.m. •Keynote Speaker – Michael Gibson, Owner of Ebony and Jet Magazines •Admission for an individual seat is $100 •Cost for a table (10 seats) is $1,000. MCJCF hosts the Community Service Awards Gala to recognize area community leaders. Four couples will be recognized for their outstanding leadership within the community: Grady Prestage, Fort Bend County Commissioner, Precinct No. 2 and Fhyerl Prestage, Arthur and Bonita Billings, Owners of B’s Wine Bar, Stephen and Daphane Carter of Sterling Staffing Solutions and Cary Yates, former Wells Fargo Executive, and Judge Clarease Rankin Yates,
Immigration Judge. Tickets can be purchased online at www.mcjcf.com. FRIDAY – JUNE 15 Family Fun Day in the Park •Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence Blvd. •Family-fun activities begin at 6 p.m. •The featured movie is the documentary “Step” that will be shown at dusk Family Fun Day in the Park is a free event for everyone to enjoy. SATURDAY – JUNE 16 “It Takes a Village” Community Art Exhibit •Community Center in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy. •From 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. •This is a free event open to the general public At the “It Takes a Village” Community Art Exhibit, Carolyn Crump, Curator and Fiber Artist, will showcase her artwork along with other local artists. Those interested in participating in the Art Exhibit can contact mcjuneteenthartist@gmail.
com. SATURDAY – JUNE 16 MCJCF “One Mile of Smiles” Parade •Runs along Texas Parkway (FM 2234) from Court Road to Lexington Boulevard turning right on Pine Hollow ending at Hunters Glen Park •Begins at 7 p.m. •This is a free event open to the general public •Street closures Texas Parkway at Court Road to Buffalo Run: 5 p.m. until parade is over Lexington Boulevard: 5 p.m. until parade is over Pine Hollow: 5 p.m. until
parade is over Independence Boulevard: 5 p.m. until parade is over Grand Park (From Texas Parkway to Independence): 8 a.m. until midnight The “One Mile of Smiles” Parade is another exciting event MCJCF provides featuring local marching bands, civic groups, corporations, floats, dignitaries and much more. To participate in the parade, see the full parade route or see the parade staging site map, log on to www.mcjcf.com. SATURDAY – JUNE 16 Festival under the Stars •Hunters Glen Park, 1340
Independence Blvd. •From 6 – 11 p.m. •This is a free event open to the general public •Artist Howard Hewett will begin at 9 p.m. •Featured Artist Chante Moore will begin at 10 p.m. Plan to close out the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration by attending Festival under the Stars to enjoy music by festival headliners Howard Hewett and Chante Moore. For more information about this year’s events, visit www.mcjcf.com or call 281.816.6441.
A court has granted Fort Bend ISD permission to begin the process of exhuming human remains discovered at the construction site of the James Reese Career and Technical Center. In a petition filed in the 434th District Court, Fort Bend ISD sought permission to exhume human remains from the FBISD burial site for the purposes of further forensic investigation. In April, Fort Bend ISD, under the direction of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), announced the discovery of a historic cemetery at the construction site, located at University Boulevard and Chatham Avenues in Sugar Land. Since then, archeologists on site have conducted further exploratory work and established the cemetery’s perimeter, and discovered a total of 94 graves. The petition granted June 4, will allow the exhumation of graves so that forensic anthropologists and
archaeologists can gather additional data regarding the cemetery, including the sex, age, race, medical condition, and possible causes of death of the individuals who are buried at the site. All exhumation of graves will comply with the requirements of Chapter 711 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, THC Antiquities Permit #8197 and all laws that pertain to the exhumation of remains. “We are appreciative of the Texas Historical Commission’s guidance during this process, and we hope to begin further analysis soon to ensure that we are properly honoring the deceased and identifying an appropriate location for reinterment,” said FBISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre. “As the process to learn more about this site continues, we remain committed to honoring the history of those buried at the site.” The exhumation will be an extensive and methodical process, and due to the number
of graves, is anticipated to take up to three months. Construction work continues on the James Reese Career and Technical Center in the areas not impacted by the archaeological work. Construction of the James Reese Career and Technical Center began in 2017. During the next phase of the project, bones were discovered and the archaeologist was once again called out to review the findings. In the months that followed, the archaeologist established a perimeter at the site. When complete, the Technical Center will offer advanced junior and senior level courses and give students an opportunity to explore careers in Agriculture and Natural Resources, Architecture and Construction, Arts and Video Communications, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Education and Training, Information Technology, Law and Public Safety, Manufacturing and Transportation and Logistics.
Villuendas 1999 and had served a 5-year probation term in Harris County. Based on the amount of theft, the defendant’s willingness to commit a new offense while on bond, and the defendant’s willingness to use stolen funds to repay restitution, the prosecution argued that the defendant should serve time in prison because she could not
be trusted in the community. Defense counsel argued that Villuendas and her coworkers were victims of racism and discrimination and that the defendant stole from the company to support the terminated workers. The defense offered no testimony or evidence showing the defendant and other employees were victims of discrimination and the defense offered no evidence that the defendant actually shared the stolen funds. The prosecution rebutted the defense’s arguments with evidence showing all the stolen funds were transferred to Villuendas and her family, and that there were no records of complaints or lawsuits relating to the defendant’s discrimination claim. “Villuendas repeatedly
betrayed the trust of her employers and stole significant amounts of money to support her lifestyle,” said Abdul Farukhi, lead prosecutor on the case. “Businesses depend on trustworthy employees and the court’s sentence will help protect our community from theft and fraud,” Farukhi added. Theft, money laundering and misapplication of fiduciary property are all firstdegree felonies in this case, punishable by 5 – 99 years, or life, in prison and a fine up to $10,000 on each case. Villuendas was probation eligible. Assistant District Attorneys Abdul Farukhi and Brandon Draper prosecuted the case. Attorney Robert Valles, Jr. represented the defendant.
FBISD allowed to exhume human remains at burial site
Woman gets 15 years for stealing money from employer On May 31, 2018, 400th District Court Judge Maggie Perez-Jaramillo convicted Lucia Villuendas of theft, misapplication of fiduciary property, and money laundering after the defendant plead guilty to the crimes. The court then sentenced Villuendas to 15 years in prison and ordered her to pay $257,438.78 back in restitution. The 40-yearold Houston woman was prosecuted for stealing and concealing funds from her employer from 2014 to 2016. Villuendas was the financial coordinator at Westpark Springs Hospital, and in that role, was responsible for administering payroll. Villuendas manipulated direct deposit payments by adding terminated employees back onto the payroll schedule
and replaced the terminated employees’ bank information with her and her husband’s bank account information. Westpark Springs is still in the process of recovering from the economic damage caused by the defendant’s theft. The State presented evidence to the Court during the sentencing hearing that the defendant, while on bond in this case, stole over $90,000 from a new employer in Harris County during the past year. Villuendas used $70,000 of those stolen funds to attempt to repay restitution in this case. The defendant used the remaining balance of $20,000 for personal expenses such as nail salon visits. Judge Jaramillo also heard evidence that the defendant committed a felony theft in
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018
Be a Lady with Class
MIKE’S MONOLOGUE
Sometimes, color is important By MICHAEL GRANTO A couple of weeks ago, my computer started misbehaving. The first thing I noticed is that the program I used to defrag the registry didn’t do its job any more. Then I noticed that the themes, instead of having a little miniature representation of what the theme looked like, showed only black squares where the representations used to be. This was not a problem for me, because I didn’t really use themes. My desktop is a solid color. I generally do whatever I do on the computer full screen, so I really never see whatever pictures are on the desktop, anyway. Then I noticed that I couldn’t access the internet any more. At all. That was a real problem for me. My wife’s computer accessed the internet with no problems at all. After discussing it with my wife, we decided it was time for me to get a new computer. We had done some research previously, and felt pretty confident we knew what we wanted, so we headed off to Walmart. Where else? In addition to a computer, we wanted to pick up a printer. I had an idea how much I wanted to spend on a computer, but I had never bought a printer before, (never needed one) so had no idea what the prices might be. I didn’t have much trouble picking out my computer; it was not the fastest, not the one with the best processor, not the one with the terabyte of storage. I don’t do gaming, and I’m not a hacker, so a middle-of-the-road model,
Granto with a middle-of-the-road price (senior citizen, fixed income; you know the story) was what I picked. It came in two colors, silver, and a deep, dark red. I ended up with the red one, mostly because my wife said silver looked like an old man’s color. Which it did, but I actually AM an old man. Then I looked for a printer. I saw what I thought was a reasonably priced model, made by the same company that made my computer, the biggest technology company on the planet, so that seemed like a plus. You can imagine my surprise when my wife said, “But we can’t have a white printer in that room; it won’t go with anything!” I am a guy; colors, other than red, white, and blue, and Marine green, rarely make really deep impressions on us. Having no clear idea why, I started looking for another printer. I found one, by the same maker, and just about half the price of the dreaded white one. And it was a nice, shiny, black. Now, I’ve worked with a computer for years, I had never bought a new-out-of-the-box computer before, and never set one up from scratch. In a pinch, I figured I might do it, but not without a couple of missteps along the way.
Rather than fumble my way through the process, I decided to call in an expert. We had used him before, and he did first-rate work. When he arrived, I said that if the old computer could be fixed, it would be nice, but if it would add significantly to the age factor, then forget it. He hit a few keys, shook his head, and told me he just couldn’t fix that one. So now, after an amazingly short time setting it up, I have a nice, new, computer, and a nice, new, printer, both of them the correct color, so they “match” the rest of the room. Then I started thinking about the human equivalents of losing the registry defrag program, or the theme pictures going black, or not being able to access the internet. Past a certain age, we all seem to have those problems. We can’t just call the service guy to re-set us up, can we? At least, not in this life, anyway. But in the next life, we will be welcome; undefragged registries, blacked out themes, no internet access, and all. And maybe there, all the printers AND the computers will be white.
Bowden about not judging a “book by its cover”. The trip went well. All too soon we were back home unloading the car. My Daddy said for my brother and me to help my Mother unload the car while he went in the house to turn the air conditioners on. As I carried my suitcase to my bedroom, I had no idea my parents were right behind me, “watching”. I put my suitcase on my bed and then looked over to my dresser. The first thing I saw was that small horse statue, looking right at me. I walked over and picked it up and turned around to ask, “how
you, it’s the way you respond to it that defines who you are. Respond with class. Remember, being a lady also means that you respect and love yourself immensely, and you would never tolerate anything less from others. Don’t forget about this when you’re in a relationship. A man won’t respect you, unless you respect yourself. Don’t ever tolerate anything less than respect and love from your partner, not even for a second. If you’re already in a relationship with someone who disrespects you, it’s time to take a stand. Find your strength and feel that fire burning inside of you. Speak up for yourself, even if your voice shakes a little. The more you stand up for yourself, the more respect that you will get in return. If you have a partner that is not willing to change his machismo manner towards you, then, it may be time for you to walk away. Life is too short to live under the control of a man. You don’t want to wake up
one day at sixty years old and realize that you never blossomed into the woman that you were destined to be. Of course, it’s never too late to get started on making your dreams come true. So, be a lady with class. Love and respect yourself so much that you could never tolerate anything less from others.
Moreno is Author, Writer, Journalist & Motivational Speaker. She can be reached at thewivesofmachismo@gmail.com.
SSLW Summer Community Services
(Granto is a United States Marine Corps veteran of Vietnam, awarded the Purple Heart. For over 24 years, he worked for the University of Miami Medical Campus Security Department, and retired in 2014. He moved to Missouri City, with his wife to be closer to her daughter. He can be reached at mikegranto@hotmail.com.)
The Little Mexican Horse By CAROLYN V. BOWDEN In the summer of the 1950’s, my mother surprised my brother and me by telling us our family was driving to Mexico for a short vacation. It was to be a long trip from Jackson, Mississippi. We had never had a family vacation because my Daddy had to be at his milk plant each day to make sure the milk was delivered on time to all his customers. Jerry and I were excited. Our friends always had a summer vacation and we were finally going to have one also. Going to Mexico was out of the United States! We were told that we would “just” cross the border at Brownsville, Texas and stay in a small town: Matamoros, Mexico. Our mother had studied Spanish in college and taught Spanish in high school. Therefore, we assumed that she could converse with the Mexican people and we could hear the language first hand. It did not work out that way because my mother had learned “textbook Spanish” and in Mexico everyone spoke a native slang that was different. We went shopping in a small store that had a wide variety of hand carved wooden pieces from statues to dishes, etc. I was looking at some statues of horses because, at that time in my life, my dream was to have a horse of my very own. I found a small statue of a horse that was SO thin and looked like he had not had a meal in months because his ribs protruded. Instead of feeling sorry for this poor little critter I said “out loud”: “Who would want to buy this little statue? He looks awful! That must be why the price is ONLY 85 pesos.” I placed him back on the shelf and moved on. Little did I know that my Daddy heard what I said and decided to teach me a lesson
By SANDRA MORENO As a child, you are taught to sit up straight, clean your face, brush your teeth, don’t get your good clothes dirty, and to be polite to others, just to name a few. You are encouraged to do well in school and to have big goals. We can be anything we set our mind to be. To have a fighting chance in this world, you have to stand strong in who you are. You must wear your brave face at all times. No matter what your profession is, you will most likely face some insurmountable obstacles at one point or another in your life. To have a fighting chance in this world, you must have a fire burning inside of you, so that you’re able to blast through things or people that try to get in your way of making your dreams come true. You must do this with class. Teach yourself to never respond to bad situations in a negative manner. Remember, no matter what unpleasant circumstances that come against
did this little statue get into my bedroom?” Standing in my door way was my Daddy. He said, “I guess he followed you ALL the way home from Mexico. Now he won’t be sitting on the shelf any longer. He has a home.” I looked at that statue and I felt SO BAD. He looked back at me and I told him I was sorry. I continued to keep him on my dresser and every time I dusted him I would remind him he would always have a home. In 1960, when I married, I took him to live with me in Texas. Now, he no longer sits on a shelf. When we sold our home and down sized to an apartment in 2013 I placed him in an etagere with a light for our living area. Here I displayed my “favorite” keepsakes. He now stands under a spotlight and, when guests ask, they hear the story of how this little horse left Mexico and ended up in Texas. Each week when I “dust” I pick him up and think about the “valuable” lesson my Daddy taught me LONG AGO and sometimes I will turn him over to see the price, 85 pesos, printed on the bottom…… and REMEMBER!
Seven of SSLW Committed Members and Phenomenal Partners: Mose Austin; Dr. Moses Wilcox, Sr.; Susan Wilcox; Elise Leaks Harmon; Marvelyn Harris; Mable Scott Austin; and Tomika R. Lewis. The mission of Suburban Sugar Land Women is to serve others cheerfully and willingly. We encourage, educate, equip, engage, and empower those in need. Together, we transform lives. Ongoing activities: Seniors Enrichment, Infants – Young Adults Development, Families Outreach, Memberships & Partnerships, Community Involvement, Fund Development,Continuing S c h o l a r s h i p s & Support,Military / Veterans Appreciation, Collaborations, Voter Registration & Education, Community Gardens and Special Requests June: •Elementary, Middle, & High Schools Graduates In-
centives •Children/ Youth Development – Summer Camp Enrichment & Educational Opportunities •Ensemble Theatre, 3535 Main, Houston, 77002, Volunteer Hosts for play. Attire: All Black •4th Sat., 10 a.m – 12 noon, Annual Board Development, Application & Interview Required July •15: Annual U. S. Mail Deadline for Scholarship Recipient’s Bursar Form & Acceptance / Enrollment Documentation. •15-31: Review & select continuing recipients. •4th Saturday, 10 a.m – 12 noon; Annual Programs Plan-
ning & Budget Development August •1-7: Mail first time & continuing scholarship recipients’ checks/letters to universities/ recipients/parents. •Adopt Schools : Donate ongoing services and resources •4th Saturday, Annual Appreciation Reception Memberships & Partnerships Are Available. Visit our website – www.sslw.org All donations are tax – deductible in accordance with IRS guidelines. Written receipts are provided within thirty days. Call 713.256.7953 email SSLW89@gmail.com. Visit www.sslw.org
New and expectant moms invited to Community Baby Shower Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land invites new and expectant moms – along with their partners and babies – to the annual Community Baby Shower from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m on Thursday, Aug. 2, in the Brazos Pavilion Conference Center on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. The event will feature demonstrations on how to safely use baby carriers, presentations on the importance of safe sleeping practices, and a Sugar Land police officer will speak about car seat safety. In addition, lactation consultants and counselors from the Childbirth Center will be available to talk one-on-one with moms and provide guidance and support. “This is a great opportunity for new moms to speak directly with someone who understands their concerns,” said Donna Timmer, lactation consultant. “There will be great discussions and information provided at this event; it’s been a very beneficial experience for our attendees in
previous years.” Timmer says attendees are welcome to stop by any time during the shower. Demonstrations will be repeated several times throughout the event, and light refreshments will be provided. Attendees can also participate in several drawings. “This is a fun event, but it’s also a great outreach program,” Timmer said. “Our goal is to celebrate new and expectant moms, as well as help them learn techniques they need to
know in order to care for their newborns. Sometimes a mom gets home from the hospital and realizes that she needs additional support or information, and we’re here to help.” Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital hosts its annual Community Baby Shower in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week. Visit events.houstonmethodist.org/ babyshower-sl for more information.
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.
12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
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INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018 • Page 5
NEWS
Fort Bend Leadership Forum, Class of 2018 graduates
Congratulations to the 54 graduates of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Forum Class of 2018 generously sponsored by PrimeWay Federal Credit Union. Under the direction of Division Chairs Dustin Fessler and Barkley Peschel, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Leadership program celebrates its most recent graduating class of effective leaders. Participants study the qualities that make a community leader, analyze leadership roles, and develop personal leadership styles and skills. The class of 2018 represents the 30th year that a group of outstanding individuals have participated in this rigorous program of leadership development and community engagement through active learning, expert insight, and experiential activities. The class participants are selected each year from a wide spectrum of the area’s population. The class of 2018 completed the program in Galveston on May 25th, 2018. Presenting the Fort Bend Leadership Forum Class of 2018: Brandi Anderson Alan Bagwell Callie Bletsch Lisa-Ann Brown-Machart Eugene Campbell Sache Cantu Rich Chandler William Conlan Craig Davis Amaris Dawson Nick Deacon Susan Denman-Briones Mike Dotson Dina Edgar Sonya Forney Rosielee Frank Sherry Fuller Megan Geary Thania Gonzalez Cyndi Hernandez Christopher Hill Denny Holiday Jonathan Howard Nasha Hunter Beth Johnson Hanif Juma Lucy Jurek Shashi Kumar Kyle Liner
Community Bank of Texas Mercantil Bank MBCO Engineering, LLC CHI St. Luke's Health Sugar Land Hospital City of Missouri City The George Foundation Sterling Construction Company RPS Texas Gun Club Amegy Bank of Texas Riverstone Community Wharton County Junior College AccessHealth Fort Bend ISD PrimeWay Federal Credit Union Drury Inn & Suites Johnson Development Corp. Dearborn & Creggs Whitley Penn, LLP Sienna Plantation Residential Assn. 180 Messaging Sterling McCall Lexus Brown & Gay Engineers, Inc. Sweetpea Smiles University of Houston Sugar Land ACE Business Consultants, LLC Stewart Title City of Missouri City Frost Bank
Kate Marinacci Martinez Nestor Marinacci Justin Markel Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC Noel Mascarenhas First Colony Community Association Colby McClary Airia Development Company Josh Morton Morton Law Office, PLLC Jordan Nightingale WJ Interests, LLC Alex Nuno Comerica Wealth Management Jerry Parks Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land Kevin Patton State Farm Insurance Tasha Peters Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Meredith Riede City of Sugar Land Virginia Rosas City of Stafford Darrell Roth Roth Management Group Carlos Sandoval Allegiance Bank Sonya Schoen Minute Maid Shana Scott Smart Financial Credit Union Kristin Searcy BB&T Sally Shen Houston Methodist Sugar Land Veronica Sopher Fort Bend ISD Jennifer Strader Fluor Corporation Hannah Tatro Gympass Robert Thompson TruCore Business Development Tracy Walker State Farm Insurance Douglas Walker-Rice Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. Allisandra Wen Safari Texas Ranch Patti Worfe City of Stafford The Fort Bend Leadership Forum is a ten-month program, August through May; it begins with a one and a half day opening retreat in San Antonio. The opening retreat is followed by monthly one-day sessions covering criminal justice, diversity, economic development/infrastructure, health and social services, municipal/county government, a two-day trip to Austin for a state government session, and a three-day national government session in Washington D.C. The Leadership program is completed with a one and a half day ending retreat and graduation ceremony in Galveston. As the premier leadership development program in the region, the Fort Bend Leadership Forum was designed to prepare for the community needs that demand the involvement of informed citizens. The Fort Bend Leadership Forum offers structured learning opportunities in an atmosphere that stimulates creative thinking and encourages participants to work together to utilize both new and proven tools to meet the challenges of today and to prepare for tomorrow. The Fort Bend Leadership Forum Class of 2019 is filling up fast. For more information on the program and sponsorship opportunities contact Matthew Ferraro at matthew@fortbendcc. org or 281-491-0277.
Hubenak Elementary takes Bluebonnet Book crown
Hubenak Elementary bested the rest in Lamar CISD’s annual Battle of the Bluebonnet Books. Each elementary forms a team and is tested on the ability to recognize passages and answer questions chosen from this year’s Bluebonnet Books. Hubenak was represented at this year’s contest by Caleb Helmke, Jennifer Jew, Roman Ortega, Jordan Tosch, Bach Tran and Valeria Vazquez. Librarian Sarah Falcon coached the team. Each year, the Texas Library Association announces its Bluebonnet Book Award list. Titles are chosen for both quality and appeal to children. Campbell took second in the annual competition, with Williams and Huggins tying for third after two 25-question rounds and a 20-question tiebreaker. The competition is completely underwritten by the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation, which paid for tshirts, trophies, lunch for the participants and travel costs for all 24 elementary schools. Top, Bach Tran, and Roman Ortega; Bottom, Jordan Tosch, Valeria Vazquez, Caleb Helmke and Jennifer Jew.
FBISD schools named in 2017-18 Texas Honor Roll Several Fort Bend ISD schools have been recognized as 2017-18 Honor Roll Schools by the Education Results Partnership (ERP) and the Institute for Productivity Education (IPE). FBISD schools were awarded Scholar and Star designations. The Star campuses include: •Barrington Place Elementary •Garcia Middle School •Lakeview Elementary •Meadows Elementary •Oyster Creek Elementary The Scholars campuses include: •Brazos Bend Elementary •Clements High School •Colony Meadows Elementary •Commonwelath Elementary •Cornerstone Elementary •First Colony Middle School •Fort Settlement Middle School •Sartartia Middle School •Sullivan Elementary •Walker Station Elementary The Honor Roll recognizes public schools at all levels that demonstrate high academic achievement, improvement in achievement over time and reductions in achievement gaps, as well as college and career readiness. The FBISD schools were among the just 729 schools that were recognized in Texas. The “Scholar” distinction is given to schools that have high academic achievement, but do not have a significant socio-economically disadvantaged student population. The
“Star” distinction is given to schools that have significant socio-economically disadvantaged student populations, and are high-performing and have shown success in closing the achievement gap. “FBISD teachers and administrators are committed to reaching higher levels of academic achievement and progress while continuously improving our practices,” said Dr. Audra Ude, FBISD’s Executive Director of Accountability and Assessment. “We are pleased to see the hard work and dedication translating to positive outcomes for our students.” Educational Results Partnership (ERP) and the Institute for Productivity in Education (IPE) partner with leaders in the business community in a shared mission: to ensure all students are prepared to succeed in college and career. Together, they work to improve educational productivity at all levels, K through Job. They draw upon the nation’s largest database on student achievement to uncover successful schools, particularly in economically disadvantaged districts, and promote their best practices to schools that want to do better. Since 2016, the Honor Roll has focused business and academic leaders around a common agenda for high performing public schools leading to increased college success and economic productivity.
Lamar CISD schools in Texas Honor Roll
Lamar CISD’s Campbell, Jackson and Ray elementary schools have been named to the 2017-2018 Educational Results Partnership Honor Roll for their high achievement and student success. The program, sponsored by the Institute for Productivity in Education (IPE), is part of a national effort to identify higherperforming schools and districts that are improving student outcomes. The trio are among 729 public schools in Texas to be recognized. Michelle Koerth is the principal at Campbell Elementary, Deana Gonzalez is the principal at Jackson Elementary and Ben Perez is principal at Ray Elementary. “We are proud to be recognized as an ERP Honor Roll School by educational and business leaders in Texas,” said Dr. Thomas Randle, Lamar CISD Superintendent of Schools. “Our teachers and administrators are committed to reaching higher levels of academic achievement and continuously improving our practices. We are pleased to see their hard work and dedication translating to positive outcomes for students.” The 2017-2018 Honor Roll is developed by Educational Results Partnership (ERP), a nonprofit organization that applies data science to help improve student outcomes and career readiness. ERP maintains the nation’s largest database on student achievement and utilizes this data to identify higher-performing schools and districts. Schools that receive the ERP Honor Roll distinction have demonstrated consistent high levels of student academic achievement, improvement in achievement levels over time, and a reduction in achievement gaps among student populations. For high schools, the ERP Honor Roll recognition also includes measures of college readiness. In Texas, the ERP Honor Roll program is supported by numerous businesses and organizations, including the Texas Business Leadership Council, American Automobile Association (AAA) Texas, Macy’s, Wells Fargo, Chevron Corporation and Enterprise Holdings Foundation.
STEM Synergy Conference June 9 A family-oriented and free Summer STEM Synergy conference will be held for young kids and their families on Saturday, June 9, 2018 from 2:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m at the HCC Missouri City campus located at 1600 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77489. The conference is designed to inspire young minds with STEM activities and increase the participation of community members to pursue STEM career pathways offered at HCC. Families will learn techniques to advance their child’s STEM thinking – critical thinking, problem-solving, and inquiry skills. Both children ages 4-10 years and the adults will actively engage in a variety of fun, hands-on activities with reallife application at math, science, literacy, technology stations. At the conference, families will also get a Nurture Kit which includes books and other educational materials for kids to use during the summer. To focus on the crucial need to close the STEM workforce gap which continues to grow faster than ever, HCC Trustee Neeta Sane in collaboration with Parent Engagement for Active Child Enrichment (PEACE), a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization and community partners has initiated a Summer STEM Synergy conference to be held at HCC Missouri City campus. For more information, contact Neeta Sane at 832-279-8601. For year-round activities for young kids, please visit www. peacenurtureskids.org
Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018
AUTOMOBILE: Lexus RC F By BARBARA FULENWIDER For 2018, Lexus RC V6 models got an increase of five horsepower and flare yellow for the F SPORT. In addition, the RC 200t is now the RC 300 and 2018 RC models will feature Scout GPS Link with a three-year trial. A larger navigation 10.3-inch screen is optional. From every angle, RC provides a sophisticated design and plenty of power. The RC 300 has a 2.0-liter twinscroll turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine under the hood that makes 241 hp, with 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 1,650-4,400 rpm. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and gets 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The RC 300 AWD model’s 3.5-liter V6 with the Lexus D-4S system of direct and port injection produces 260 hp and 236 lb.-ft. torque, the latter at 2,000-4,800 rpm, and is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. The RC 350 F, which was the test drive, has a 5.5 liter DOHC 32 valve V8 that makes 487 hp and 389 lb.-ft. torque. The V8 is paired with an eight-speed sport direct
shift transmission and with all that flies. The MANUAL (M) mode engages full torque-converter lock-up from second to eighth gears for manual shifting. Downshifts are made in just 0.4 seconds in M mode, with the transmission’s throttle blipping control matching the engine speed to the gear. The Lexus RC listens to
the driver through the Drive Mode Select system. Using a dial on the console, the driver can dial in the performance response and the feel desired. Drive Mode Select tailors the vehicle’s powertrain, electric power-assisted steering assist curve and, on F SPORT, suspension response. Modes include
Segura appointed interim police chief of Rosenberg
Fort Bend County Public Transportation Department NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT Public Participation Plan The Public Participation Plan (PPP) is a guide for Fort Bend County Public Transportation’s ongoing public participation activities. The purpose of this PPP is to provide guidance when seeking public input related to projects and service changes and to identify techniques and methodologies for soliciting and considering public input. A 45 calendar day public comment period has been established running from May 30, 2018 through July 14, 2018 at 5 pm. The public comment period is your opportunity to provide comment on the plan. A copy of the plan can be viewed on our website at www.FBCTransit.org. Throughout the comment period, written comments may be submitted to Tennille Jones, Community Relations Manager, 12550 Emily Court, Suite 400, Sugar Land, TX 77478 or via email to Transit@fortbendcountytx.gov. If no changes are made as a result of public comments received, this plan will be considered final. This plan is subject to further approval by the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court.
Segura
Condado de Fort Bend Departamento de Transporte Público AVISO DE COMENTARIO PÚBLICO Plan de participación pública El Plan de Participación Pública (PPP) es una guía para las actividades continuas de participación pública del Condado de Fort Bend. El objetivo de este PPP es proporcionar orientación cuando se buscan aportaciones del público relacionadas con los proyectos y cambios en los servicios, e identificar las técnicas y metodologías para solicitar y considerar los aportes del público. Se estableció un período de comentarios públicos de 45 días calendario desde el 30 de mayo de 2018 hasta el 14 de julio de 2018 a las 5 p.m. El período de comentarios públicos es su oportunidad de proporcionar comentarios sobre el plan. Se puede ver una copia del plan en nuestro sitio web en www.FBCTransit.org. Durante el período de comentarios, los comentarios escritos se pueden enviar a Tennille Jones, Community Relations Manager, 12550 Emily Court, Suite 400, Sugar Land, TX 77478 o por correo electrónico a Transit@fortbendcountytx.gov. Si no se realizan cambios como resultado de los comentarios públicos recibidos, este plan se considerará final. Este plan está sujeto a la aprobación adicional del Tribunal de Comisionados del Condado de Fort Bend.
NORMAL, SPORT and ECO. The F SPORT adds SPORT S+ mode for maximum handling performance and allows the driver to set the powertrain and suspensions settings. All RC models offer the F SPORT upgrade, with the RC 350 RWD F SPORT offering exclusive handling technolo-
gies. A combination of adaptive variable suspension and the Lexus dynamic handling with rear-wheel steering system turns the RC 350 F SPORT RWD into a refined road warrior. The base Lexus RC features standard 18-inch alloy wheels — or optional 19-inch alloy wheels. RC F SPORT comes with 19-inch alloy wheels with a 10 twin-spoke design to create a deeply sculptured shape. Adaptive variable suspension is a variable damper system that enhances ride comfort and body lean control. The AVS system on the RC 350 F SPORT RWD monitors steering input and road conditions and adjusts the dampers to suit. When the driver selects the SPORT S+ setting, AVS maximizes the damping force for ultimate handling response. RC models are equipped with vehicle dynamic integrated management, which coordinates control of the powertrain, ABS, electric power steering, traction control and vehicle stability control systems. In the RC 350 F SPORT RWD, VDIM adds control of the optional gear ratio steering, handling and rear-wheel steer-
Lieutenant Daryul Segura was appointed Interim Police Chief of Rosenberg on June 1. The city council at a special meeting unanimously approved Segura’s appointment. Former Chief of Police Dallis Warren left to join the Lamar CISD as School Safety Coordinator. Segura, was Division Commander of the School Resource Division at the Rosenberg Police Department. He has worked for the City of Rosenberg for 12 years, in Law Enforcement for 27 years, and is a life-long resident of Rosenberg. Segura began at the Houston Police Department in 1991 as a Civilian Jailer, but was hired by the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and worked there for 13 years. He ran for Fort Bend County Pct. 1 Constable on the Republican ticket, but was unsuccessful.
ing, for integrated lateral force and yaw movement control. Lexus standard safety system includes pre-collision system, lane departure alert with steering assist, intelligent high beam and high speed radar cruise control. Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert are optional. For navigation-equipped vehicles, a remote touchpad interface uses smartphone-like touch control for information displayed on the center screen, without the user having to look down. Both the standard and optional audio systems play all popular digital formats. The standard audio system drives its 10 speakers, including a 10-inch subwoofer, with 256 watts total output. The available Mark Levinson Premium Audio system creates a 360-degree, three-dimensional sonic space through 17 speakers. The system produces 835-watts total output. For an extremely fun drive in the RC 5.0 liter V8 RC F, the MSRP is $84,650. If it’s your kind of fun, go for it. You won’t regret it because it’s built by Lexus.
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Food Truck Fridays: Party in the Plaza
Come enjoy the city of Sugar Land’s Summer Concert and Food Truck Friday Series at the plaza adjacent to the Smart Financial Centre. The series will showcase live entertainment, lawn games, the splash pad and food trucks on selected Friday evenings throughout the summer from 6-8 p.m. June dates include June 8, June 15 and June 29. Additional dates throughout the summer will be added to the lineup as they approach. Party goers are encouraged to check facebook.com/SugarLandParks for the latest event details including band and food truck information. All activities and entertainment are free and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available for purchase though onsite vendors. Free public parking will be available in the Smart Financial Centre parking lot, 18111 Lexington Blvd. Funding for the event is supported with tourism funds utilized to encourage travel to destination venues like the plaza adjacent to the Smart Financial Centre. These funds benefit the local economy through the attraction of visitor spending and expanded sales tax revenue that contributes to the city having one of the state’s lowest property tax rates while also funding the high level of services citizens expect. For more information, contact the Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at 281-275-2900, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/parks.
Astrophotographer shares tips ROSENBERG ANIMAL CONTROL AND SHELTER
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Astrophotographer Cody Knight will share his expertise and experience at a special program, “Astrophotography 101,” at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library on Saturday, June 23, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City. A member of the Fort Bend Photography Club, Knight will explain the process and technique he uses to take amazing
photographs of the night sky. He will have his telescope, guide scope, laptop, and tracking device on hand to demonstrate how to capture and process stunning images of planets, stars, and galaxies. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who retired after a long career with NASA, Knight has been fascinated with the solar system from a very young age. He was 15 years old when he got his first high-quality telescope and
began experimenting with photography techniques. A recent honor graduate of Ridge Point High School, Knight plans to attend Texas A&M University in the fall, majoring in Engineering. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Sienna Branch Library at 281-2382900 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018 • Page 7
COMMUNITY
Mosaic Seals at Freedom Park Memorial Tower in Katy
Former Post Commander Frank Torres, reading from the Bible; from left to right, David Frishman, Katy Rotarian and Past District Governor Rhonda Walls, Jeff Pantle, artist in concrete that built the Tower at the cost of labor, former VFW State Commander Peyton Lumpkin and far right, former VFW State JAG Judge Advocate General Ken Burton. —Photo by MARILYN FRISHMAN
On Memorial Day, we honor those women and men, that serve our country and those that died at 9:11. This 9:11 observance began as a Rotary International President’s call to Rotary Clubs to remember and reflect on that attack, to honor those that died. That started Ken Burton and I on this memorial journey, expanded to honor our 5 Service branches with the Tower. We started with Seven Lakes High School students, volunteering and creating the 10 Mosaics, the seals of the 5 branches of our armed services, 5 Mosaic Seals, you will observe as you approach the Tower, and 5 Mosaic Seals you will observe, as you depart from the Tower. The Tower is completed and dedicated, the Mosaics Corridor is completed. The 10 mosaic seals are now the Mosaic Corridor to the Tower dedicated recently. Jeff Pantle is an artist in concrete, my friend and our Builder, from start to today, such beautiful work. Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyer, entrusted us to locate this Memorial in the park, where our youth play baseball and
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soccer, their families in attendance, and we hope they will ask their parents to tell them, about this Tower, asking “What is it and why is it here?” In a smaller way, like December 7, 1941, an act of war against us, thousands of innocent civilians were killed, our Washington DC Pentagon was struck and 125 died there, and our Capital and White House were targeted, our Nation was wounded. Ken and I are honoring those who sacrificed themselves on United Airline
Flight 93 when they decided to “Lets Roll” I quote: “...The phone line from Flight 93 was still open when a GTE operator heard Todd Beamer say: “Are you guys ready? Let’s roll’ Sunday, September 16, 2001” They saved many lives, including the service women and men stationed at our Capitol and White House. We thank them, for their service. Today, Ken and I attended our VFW Post 9182 Memorial Day observance, 10 a.m. at the Katy Cemetery and then
our Freedom Park Memorial Tower observance, at 4 p.m. The Tower base contains, as its spirit and heart, Ed Bland’s purple heart, the Holy Bible, American Flag and 9:11 artifacts, from all 3 sites, Ken and I gathered. Ken Burton is the Past Judge Advocate General of the United States of America for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Ken was also the Past State of Texas Judge Advocate of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. — David Frishman and Ken Burton
Fluor Foundation PLANTATION at Quail Valley Active Senior Living; Embracing donates the lives of Seniors 55 and Better to LEAF The Lamar Educational
Awards Foundation accepted a $24,000 donation from the Fluor Foundation to underwrite STEM programs in Lamar CISD, including a $4000 donation to support STEM Summer Camp for Girls. Left to Right, Tim Palmore , Fluor Senior Project manager, LEAF Executive Director Janice Knight, Barbara Jones, Fluor Senior Manager, Community & Public Affairs.
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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 6, 2018
COMMUNITY
FBJSL welcoming new members for 2018-2019
The 2017-2018 Fort Bend Junior Service League Provisional class. First Row: KaToya Carter, Heather Scantlin, Cathy Holland, Seema Sanghi, Holli Walker, Kristin Janossy, Shanna Pierson, Kristin Meijer, Jennifer Looper, Angela Thomson, Valerie Treece, Nilou Iken, Tamara Jobe, Kelsea Lake, Chelsi Oestreich, Lauren Gifford, Megan Leonhardt, Kelly Evans, Elizabeth Edwards, Alexis Geissler, Julie Monkhouse, Pam Hubenak, Kari Opaleski, Andrea Parvis, and Aja Smith. Second Row: Sheryl Slot, Misty Gasiorowski, Kelly Langston, Mandy Pike, Jessica Gregory, Christy Gaia, Dana Loper, Samantha Plomer, Diane Molina, Avni Shah, Jamie Pilloff, Cherie Lyne Bouterie, Kristen McQuillin, and Judy Sparks. The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) has begun its membership drive for the 2018 – 2019 League year. Provisional membership is available to women ages 21 to 50 years. Recruitment efforts are in full force and there is still time to join! FBJSL is hosting multiple events throughout the summer to learn more about the organization and becoming a member. Informational Meetings will be held on the following dates: * June 14th at 9:30 a.m at The Perfect Latte in Richmond * June 21st at 6:30 p.m at Pablo’s Mexican Kitchen in Richmond * July 19th at 6:30 p.m at Lupe Tortilla in Sugar Land
* July 26th at 9:30 a.m at Bean Here Coffee in Missouri City * August 9th at 9:30 a.m at Bean Here Coffee in Missouri City Please visit www.fbjsl.org for additional information. FBJSL members will have the opportunity to provide direct service to the following agencies: Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Lunches of Love, Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land, GiGi’s Playhouse, Reining Strength, and Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center. Members also may choose to serve on the Sugar Plum Market committee or as an advisor for the Fort Bend Teen Service League (FBTSL), a mentoring project
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of FBJSL. FBJSL is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, goodwill and camaraderie for all members. For additional information about joining FBJSL, please email newmembers@fbjsl.com.
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