Fort Bend Indepenent061015

VOL 8 No. 23

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2015

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

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

‘Great Grow’ school garden competition

Dr. Catherine Bilow, Martin Flaherty and members of House of More, student school garden organizers.

St. Theresa’s Catholic School students, proud parents and teachers, were all smiles as they displayed the 2014-2015 school-year progress of their garden at the Sugar Land Imperial Farmer’s Market on May 16.

The children plan to continue to expand their garden and provide fresh vegetables for the needy.

The event, sponsored by The Great Grow, a 501c3 organic school garden competition program, also included David Crockett Middle School students who worked at the event and will compete in the 20152016 school garden competition. Great Grow gave both the Dr. Kellie Yoh, Assistant principal, David Crockett Middle schools $500 each.

Other 2015-2016 school gar- School and 2014-2015 Great Grow Garden Competitors. for the upcoming 2015-2016 den competitors include First Station.

The Great Grow funds each program that will kick off with Colony Middle School and Elementary Schools: Arizona school with a $500 garden start a Fall Kids Fest at the Museum Fleming, Barbara Jordan, High- up donation and one $500 grand of Natural Science Sugar Land on September 26, 2015 .Visit lands, Lakeview, Mission Bend, prize winner.

Sponsorship and vendor op- the web site for more informaMission West, Oyster Creek, Ridgemont, Townewest, Walker portunities are now available tion. www.TheGreatGrow.com

Free yoga camp at George R. Brown Convention Center on June 21

By SESHADRI KUMAR The first International Day of Yoga will be held on Sunday, June 21,from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston to spread the message of yoga.

The International Day of Yoga event at George R. Brown Convention Center is free and open to all.

The Consulate General of India, Houston will conduct the celebration in close coordination with Patanjali Yogpeeth (USA) and numerous

other Yoga schools, institutions, and social and cultural organizations.

The IDY celebration would bring together a large number of Houstonians including elected officials, and institutions to perform Yoga and actively participate in a number of free interactive Yoga sessions featuring Yoga demonstration by experts, and a ‘Yoga Fair’.

Participants are encouraged to register online for free at the event website (http://

iyogadayhouston.org/) which is mandatory for participation.

Kindly bring a photo ID. The website will carry frequent updates about the event.

On 11 December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 21st June as the International Day of Yoga receiving broad support from 177 member states, including the USA. The declaration came after the call for the adoption of 21 June as International Day of Yoga by Prime Minister See YOGA, Page 3

New festivities marking 150th Anniversary of Juneteenth in Missouri City

Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land named ‘Dealer of the year’ fifth year in a row

Left to right: Adam Muller,General Motors, financial, Tom Thornton and John Krisfaluci of General Motors, Don Kerstetter Owner Classic Chevy Sugar Land, Bob Krapes, General Motors,Bryan Barley, GM financial, and Casey Whitson of General Motors.

“Chevrolet is building a ing Genuine GM Parts.

Classic Chevy Sugar Land “It is truly an honor to be recwas named the exclusive Chev- stronger relationship with conrolet Dealer of the Year by sumers by delivering award- ognized as a Chevrolet Dealer General Motors recently. Clas- winning products and the best of the Year,” said Don Kersic Chevy Sugar Land received retail experience,” said Brian stetter of Classic Chevy Sugar the award from General Motors Sweeney, U.S. vice president, Land. “This award reflects our at a ceremony on May 14 . The Chevrolet. “It’s important to employees’ enthusiasm and program honors 50 Chevrolet acknowledge these exceptional uncompromising dedication to dealers from across the country, dealers for delivering a tailored our customers and we will carry 10 per region, based on excep- customer experience, while this momentum into 2015.”

Classic Chevy Sugar Land tional performance in sales, ser- consistently growing sales.”

Dealers must also show a believes buying a car should vice and customer satisfaction.

Classic Chevy Sugar Land has long-term commitment to re- be a fun, exciting experience. now been the recipient of this taining and providing custom- Their motto “Relax...and Enjoy ers with exceptional service us- the Difference.” award for five years in a row.

In recognition of the 150th Juneteenth Anniversary, the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation is set to kick off traditional and new events for its 2015 celebration with the first function scheduled for Monday, June 15.

The Foundation is featuring a new twist to the “One Mile of Smiles” Parade, which will have a New Orleans Mardi Gras-style theme, creating excitement and fun for all. Be sure to bring your parasol and join in with the second line band as it marches to Thurgood Marshall High School for another spectacular performance: the battle of the bands.

The scheduled events are: *The Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held at the Quail Valley Golf Course, 2880 La Quinta Dr. on Monday, June 15. This tournament helps raise scholarship funds for deserving students.

Registration will begin at 7 a.m., shotgun start at 8 a.m. and the tournament at 9 a.m. The entry fee is $100 for individuals and $400 for a team. *The Community Service Awards Gala will be held at the City Centre at Quail Valley, 2880

La Quinta Dr. on Thursday, June 18. The reception begins at 7 p.m. and the gala at 8 p.m. Admission is $100 for individuals and $1,000 for a table. *Family Fun Day in the Park will be held at Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence on Friday, June 19. The family movie “Selma” will begin at dusk. This is a FREE event and is open to the general public.

A new event for Friday, June 19: *Community Art Project, “It Takes a Village” by 3D Fabric Artist Carolyn Crump, will be held at the Missouri City Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway on Friday, June 19. A reception for the exhibit begins at 6 p.m., and the viewing will run from 7 – 9 p.m. This is a FREE event and is open to the general public.

MCJCF is also hosting two new tournaments: *A Bid Whist and Domino Tournament will be held at the Missouri City Tennis and Recreation Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr. on Saturday, June 20 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The entry fee for the bid whist tournament is $35 and is $25 for the domino tournament. Bid whist

registration runs from 9 – 11 a.m., and the domino tournament registration runs from 3 – 4 p.m.

You can RSVP and pay online at www.MCJCF.com. You will incur a small fee when registering online; both are open to the general public. *The “One Mile of Smiles” Parade will be held on Texas Parkway (FM 2234) on Saturday, June 20. The parade will begin at 7 p.m. This is a FREE event and is open to the general public. *The Battle of the Bands will be held at the Thurgood Marshall High School Athletic Field on Saturday, June 20. The battle will begin after the parade. This is a FREE event and is open to the general public.

An additional commemorative event is being planned for Sunday at a local historical church; for updates on this and other 2015 events, visit www.mcjcf.com or call 281.816.6441. Residents interested in volunteering for this year’s Juneteenth events can contact Missouri City Media Relations Specialist Cory Stottlemyer at 281.403.8532 or at cstottlemyer@missouricitytx.gov.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 10, 2015

NEWS Century 21 opens office in Missouri City

A new Century 21 office was opened in Missouri City,

by Michelle Mattli and Stephen Williams, recently at 3424 FM1092, Suite 250.

Century 21 is a respected brand in real estate, with a presence in 78 different countries and agents worldwide Mattli has lived in Sugar Land for almost 30 years and boasts over 30 years combined experience in real estate, banking, financing and servicing. She uses her bevy

of knowledge to help her clients sell, buy and lease properties. Whether it is a first time buyer or a real estate veteran, her expertise allows her to help her clients find what they need.

“Integrity-Service-Excellence” is the motto that is featured on the profile for Mattli.

Stephen Williams, on the other hand, is from Great Britain, and he is a former Olympic athlete.

Williams represented Great

Britain in the 1984 Winter Olympics. He came to the United States in 1995 to coach skaters with Olympic dreams, but then real estate caught his attention.

“It was not long after I arrived in Houston, that I became interested in investing in real estate, which I did.

Then in 2003, my wife told me to get my real estate license, which I also did and the rest as they say is history,” Williams said.

Williams and Mattli bring top notch expertise and years of experience. They are also both very successful agents, with years of success serving the Houston area, and they look to bring that winning combination to Missouri City Michelle Mattli and Stephen Williams, holding the giant scissors, are ready to cut the ribbon marking the opening of Century 21’s new location in Missouri City. and the Fort Bend area.

This team hopes to continue their high rate of customer satisfaction and help people for years to come, because for them, the customers always come first.

OakBend Medical Center gets NICHE deisgnation OakBend Medical Center has earned the NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) designation.

This designation recognizes OakBend’s ongoing commitment to geriatric nursing care.

The NICHE program is designed to upgrade the quality of care for older adult patients by increasing awareness of geriatric issues, improving staff competence in nursing care of the elderly, and supporting the implementation of hospital geriatric protocols.

NICHE’s goal is to achieve

Eunice Bufford, left, LaTarsha Spencer, Crystal Lewis, Sue McCarty, Deidra Martinez, Lorlyn Sevilla. systematic nursing change have a substantive and posi- hospital, and this recognition that will benefit the care of tive impact on patient care. is a great honor.” older adults in all healthcare For more information about “We are excited about our settings, and its vision is for NICHE designation,” an- OakBend Medical Center log all patients 65 and over to be nounced Joe Freudenberger, onto www.oakbendmedcengiven sensitive and exemplary CEO of OakBend Medical ter.org. For more informacare.

Center, “our nurses are ex- tion on NICHE, to go www.

The mission of NICHE is to ceptional in all areas of the nicheprogram.org. provide principles and tools to stimulate a change in the culture of healthcare facilities to achieve patient centered care for older adults.

OakBend’s ACE (Acute Care for the Elderly) Unit is the only unit of its kind in Fort Bend County. The 13bed Unit promotes the NICHE concepts.

NICHE provides materials and services necessary to stimulate and support the planning and implementation process.

The focus is on programs and protocols that are dominantly under the control of nursing practice.

Or, in other words, areas where nursing interventions

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JUNE 10, 2015 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

NEWS Sales tax receipts show increase

By BARBARA FULENWIDER More money is pouring into the local economy.

Sales tax collections in Texas translate to more money returned to cities to pay for more services to citizens. For the first five months of this year, the eight most prosperous towns in Fort Bend County all had an increase in sales tax receipts in May. All but two showed increases for every month this year.

Fulshear, Katy, Meadows Place, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford and Sugar Land each showed more sales taxes collected in May this year than in May 2014.

The percentage increases for the first five months of this year compared to 2014’s first five months went as high as 42.38 percent more for Fulshear.

The lowest increase for the first five-month total was 4.01 percent for Rosenberg.

Fort Bend’s largest town, Sugar Land, received $4,671,654 in May sales tax receipts this year compared to $3,881,529 collected in May 2014.

The first five months worth of sales taxes collected this year total $22,224,000 or 9.9 percent more than the $20,369,000 collected last year.

In May 2013 Sugar Land took in $3,881,529; $3,766,673 in 2012 and $3,640,920 in 2011 for an increase in May for the past five years.

Missouri City also increased receipts this past May over May 2014 with $824,890 compared to $742,597. That town’s sales tax receipts in May totaled $697,618; in May 2013, $602,888; in May 2012 $602,888 and $541,054 in 2011.

Only this past April’s receipts of $600,655 were less than the $604,884 collected in April 2014.

Missouri City increased its total sales tax receipts this year by 9.15 percent over the first five months of its 2014 collections.

Stafford, always the heavy hitter for its size in east Fort Bend County, increased its total sales tax collections of five months by 5.59 percent so far this year. Five months of collections this year total $7,028,007 versus $6,655,591 for the first five months of 2014.

Stafford’s May collection this year also outstripped the past four collections the city received in May. Stafford took in $1,590,294 in May this year compared to $1,548,304 last year in May; $1,462,871 in May 2013; $1,435,410 in May 2012 and $1,365,637 in May 2011.

Meadows Place has seen a 16.05 percent increase in total sales tax collections so far this year compared to the first five months of 2014.

In five months the town has received a total of $571,016 compared to $491,982 the first five months of last year.

May sales receipts Meadows Place collected this year totaled $158,364 compared to $116,363 last year.

In May 2013 Meadows Place got $108,355 in sales tax receipts; $97,813 in May 2012 and $90,172 in May 2011. Only March of this year brought in fewer sales taxes than March last year.

Rosenberg is up 4.01 percent in sales tax collections this year over 2014 at the same time. So

far collections total $7,088,369 for five months compared to $6,814,817 for the first five months of 2014. May 2015 collections were $1,651,923 compared to $1,483,347 in 2014; $1,331,203 in 2013; $1,246,544 in 2012 and $1,168,082 in 2011.

Richmond has also profited from sales tax growth so far this year – up by a whopping 12.57 percent over last year.

The town totaled $2,221,080 in sales tax receipts for the first five months of 2015 compared to $1,972,918 over the first five months last year.

For May this year Richmond received $495,255 in sales tax receipts compared to $460,824 a year ago in May. The growing town of Fulshear went from a total of $386,274 in sales tax collections for the first five months of last year to $550,013 for the same time this year.

In May, Fulshear received $124,391 from sales tax receipts; $94,312 in May 2014; $78,421 in May 2013; $58,489 in May 2012 and $44,436 in May 2011.

Katy is another small town that has grown hugely thanks in large part to its outlet mall located in Fort Bend County and Houston’s I-10 energy corridor.

Katy’s tax receipts for the first five months of 2015 total $4,745,070 or 4.49 percent over what was collected for the first five months of 2014.

This past May, Katy got $985,412 from sales taxes compared to $953,905 in May 2014; $944,009 in May 2013; $790,939 in May 2012 and $793,840 in May 2011.

Mathematics summit on July 31

The Fort Bend P-16 Regional Council will host a second Mathematics Best Practices Summit, Friday, July 31, 2015, 8:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m at Brazos Hall on the joint Campus of Wharton County Junior College and University of Houston @ Sugar Land, 14,000 University Blvd. , Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

The P-16 Mission is to create a college and career going culture among stakeholders and participants from pre- school (P) through college graduation (16 years), to promote life - long learning and to sustain a high - quality of life in the Fort Bend region.

The guest speaker is Dr. Cathy Seeley a mathematics educator and change facilitator with 35 years of experience at the local, state, and national levels.

Motivated by a deep commitment to equity for all students, she has been an active participant in and spokeperson for the improvement of mathematics education throughout

Yoga From Page 1 of India, Narendra Modi during his address to UN General Assembly on September 27, 2014.

The benefits of yoga can be realized by people of any age and it is not dependent on anyone’s religion or faith.

Yoga and all of its elements— including making good choices for yourself and others, mindful breathing, cultivating concentration and focus, as well as poses or asanas—help people of all ages grow and blossom into their most authentic selves.

Indeed, a myriad of research shows what many have known for centuries: people of all ages who practice yoga are empowered to better manage emotions, stress and energy levels, says Elizabeth “Beth” Reese, founder and executive director of Yogiños: Yoga for Youth®.

While most studies and programs are designed to help adults become stronger and better manage stress, there is

Seeley her career.

Dr. Seeley’s diverse experience in K-12 education includes teaching mathematics at the middle and high school levels, working as a K-12 district mathematics supervisor, and serving for eight years as Director of Mathematics for the Texas Education Agency.

Dr. Seeley has published numerous articles and chapters in edited books and is an experienced textbook author for middle school and high school mathematics.

She is the author of the recently published Faster Isn’t Smarter - Messages about mounting research that youth and families also gain important life-skills from practicing yoga on and off the mat, according to Reese, a teacher with over 25 years of experience with preK-12 grades in art, windsurfing, skiing, and yoga.

Just like adults, when youth experience stress or strong emotions which they are unable to handle, their brains literally do not function to their greatest capacity. In order to maintain high cognitive functioning and succeed academically and socially, kids must learn tools and techniques to self-regulate their own stress, emotions and energy levels.

And since stress often happens before leaving our own front doors at home, it follows that family yoga classes and programs can improve the stress-levels among youth and their families thereby expanding a sense of connection and support by putting increased love into action.

Toward adding more love

Math, Teaching, and Learning in the 21th Century, a resource for teachers, leaders, policymakers, and families.

Dr. Seeley holds a B.S. in mathematics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, a M.A. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Northern Colorado, and an Ed.D in teacher education from the University of Houston.

The Fort Bend P-16 Regional Council Board is honored to have Dr. Seeley as the guest speaker. Special thanks to Jamie Vincek.

Website: http://fortbendp16summit.weebly.com Presenter’s Proposals will be accepted until June 30.

Presenters proposals’ questions, email- jvincek@lcisd. org Registration closes Friday, July 17. For more details contact, Mary Vazquez, Event Chair, at mvazquezunitedwayhouston.org, Jamie Vincek , Registration Chair, jvincek@ lcisd.orgor Robert Wolter, Logistics Chair, robertw@wcjc. edu. and tools to foster calmness among youth and their families, including as a way to celebrate dads on Father’s Day, International Yoga Day Houston will feature yoga for kids and families led by the Houston-based, Yogiños: Yoga for Youth®.

Yogiños for kids ages 3+ takes place at the Main Stage, 12:30 p.m-1p.m. Families with yogis of all ages can play and pose with Yogiños for Families near the main stage from 1:15-2 p.m.

This eight-limbed path that forms the foundation for most yoga classes—including the one for adults on the Main Stage 9:30 a.m-12 noon—also provides the structural framework for the foundation of Yogiños: Yoga for Youth®. Using the 8 limbs of yoga not only teaches participants to have respect and awareness for self, others and the environment, but also encourages youth and families to weave yoga into their daily lives both on and off the yoga mat.

‘Virtual’ groundbreaking heralds Kelsey-Seybold’s Sienna facility

VIRTUAL GROUNDBREAKING: Addie Heyliger, left, Trustee, Fort Bend ISD, Jim Rice, Trustee, Fort Bend ISD, Dr. Tony Lin, Associate Medical Director for Hospital Services, KelseySeybold Clinic, K. P. George, Trustee, Fort Bend ISD, Dr. Eric Peterson, Past Vice Chair of the Board, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, and Co-managing Physician, Kelsey-Seybold Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center, James Patterson, Commissioner, Fort Bend County, Precinct 4 and Jeff Wiley, President and CEO, Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council.

The Greater Fort Bend County Economic Development Council hosted a virtual groundbreaking with community leaders and elected officials to celebrate Kelsey-Seybold Clinic’s newest expansion in Sienna Plantation in Fort Bend County.

The event was held at Sugar land Marriott Town Square on NOTICE TO BIDDERS May 28.

IMPERIAL CONNECTOR TRAIL PROJECT Kelsey-Seybold has adopted The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, a hub-spoke strategy to provide an accountable and coordi- and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: Imperial Connector Trail nated care. The system believes CIP PROJECT NUMBER: PK 1505 in preventive and proactive LOCATION OF WORK: Brooks Street approximately .13 miles north approach with an emphasis in of SH6 intersection, Matlage Way from Brooks Street to Imperial Park, and the ball fields early identification of diseases at Imperial Park; Sugar Land, TX and an out-patient based mediPlans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained with a noncal care. refundable payment of $50.00 from the Project Engineer Philip Huseman, P.E., The system brings multli- (281) 494-3252, KSA Engineers, 816 Park 2 Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77478. specialty care to people where Sealed bids, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite they live.

Kelsey-Seybold’s expan- 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2015, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening sion in Katy and Sienna is date and time will not be considered. estimated to cost $24 million. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held 10:00 a.m.

The Sienna facility is ex- Thursday, June 18, 2015, in the Brazos Room, City of Sugar Land City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. pected to be ready in 2016.

Kelsey-Seybold also pre- For questions regarding the bid, contact Philip Huseman, phuseman@ksaeng.com or (281) 494-3252 no later than 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2015. sented Omar Reid, Human The City will award the contract as provided in the Invitation to Bid; and give Resources Director for the City notice of the contract award within ninety (90) calendar days after bid opening. of Houston. He discussed the Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary challenges and opportunities of employee healthcare. Reid, who oversees the Human ReNOTICE TO BIDDERS sources needs of 21,000 perON-CALL PUMP REPAIRS sonnel across 25 departments, was recently lauded for saving the City of Houston $42 mil- The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City: lion in health care costs over three years.

ON-CALL PUMP REPAIRS BID NO. 2015-20: BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE His presentation entitled How Large Employers Can Specifications and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Save 15-30% in Healthcare Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to Costs and Improve Health Outcomes, deals with innova- the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, tive approaches to health care June 25, 2015, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received programs - including adding a after the opening date and time will not be considered limited network Accountable For questions regarding this bid contact Jason Poscovsky, jposcovsky@sugarlandtx.

Care Organization model of- gov Contracts Manager no later than 3:00 p.m. Thursday, June 18, 2015.

The City will award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder that complies fered by Kelsey-Seybold - that with all requirements of the Request for Bids; and give notice of the contract award could help local agencies and within sixty (60) calendar days after bid opening. large employers save on the cost of employer sponsored Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary health care coverage.

Empowering Your Potential CHARLES WILDS CEO "It's about changing POTENTIAL to RESULTS ABWA American Business Womens Association (SWAPEN) June 16th Meeting 11Ͳ1pm.

Please join us for a fantastic speaker to help you be successful in your business. Meeting at Sugar Creek Country Club in Sugar Land. Please rsvp to Dora Moore at moore5971@att.net, First time guests are $20 and other guests $25. Please prepay by credit to rsvp a seat/meal. Hope to see you there. Bring your business cards to network with. Great way to connect, learn and grow your business.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 10, 2015

Opinion

The American Flag

By CAROLYN BOWDEN LEGEND OF BETSY ROSS: It is said that George Washington visited her house in Philadelphia with a sketch of the ag that he was interested in having made. The legend that Ross sewed (and perhaps even designed) the ďŹ rst ag has no proof to substantiate it, although there are plenty of family stories handed down through generations that she did.

Whether or not Betsy Ross was behind the ag may never be known, but her life was indicative of the times, and contains a number of interesting facts that can tell us something about the time period in which she lived. She is a historical ďŹ gure in her own right.

CREATION OF THE FIRST STAR SPANGLED BANNER: During the War of 1812, Lieutenant Colonel Armistead was ordered to take command of Fort McHenry.

Upon his arrival he ordered a ag so large that the British would have no difďŹ culty seeing it from a distance. That ag, known as the Star Spangled Banner Flag, measured 42’ x 30’, and was made by Baltimore resident Mary Pickersgill, her daughter, and seven seamstresses, and would be later memorialized by Francis Scott Key in the poem, “The Star Spangled Bannerâ€?, which became the American national anthem.

He also ordered a 17’ x 25’ storm ag for use in inclement weather. The 37 year old

Bowden widow, was an experienced maker of ship’s colors and signal ags for military and merchant ships that sailed into Baltimore’s port. It took about seven weeks to make the two ags.

The nearly 25-hour bombardment of Fort McHenry was a deadly rain of some 2,000 mortar shells that the British bombardment eet ďŹ red at the fort. The Royal Navy proved unable to capture or reduce the fort in order to enter Baltimore harbor to bombard the main American defense line east of the city. British Army Commander Brooke decided to withdraw.

The ag that inspired Francis Scott Key’s poem/song remained an Armistead family keepsake and the private property of the Lieutenant Colonel Armistead family for 90 years.

During that time the increasing popularity of Key’s anthem and the American public’s developing sense of national

heritage transformed the Star Spangled Banner from a family keepsake into a national treasure.

FLAG PRESERVATION PROJECT: Eben Appleton, who inherited the Star-Spangled Banner upon his mother’s death in 1878 became concerned for the ag’s deteriorating condition. In 1912 he donated it to the Smithsonian Institution with the request that it would always be on view to the public. The Smithsonian has had to care for this fragile and damaged ag in order to preserve it. To see how they have accomplished this MAJOR task, Google: “Star Spangled Banner Preservation Projectâ€?.

FLAG DAY BEGINS: Flags pop up all over for Flag Day which is celebrated each year on June 14th. All of us need to remember the proper etiquette when displaying Old Glory. Flag Day started out in the late 1800s. On June 14, 1777 Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the ag of the United States of America.

More than 100 years after that date, however, there was no ofďŹ cial holiday to commemorate the ag and its signiďŹ cance.

Bernard J. Cigrand, a young teacher working at the Stoney Hill School near Fredonia, Wisconsin, began the process that led to the recognition of June 14th as Flag Day. In 1885, on the anniversary of the adoption of the Flag, Cigrand placed a small (ten inches) ag with 38 stars in an inkwell on

his desk and then assigned his students to write an essay explaining what the ag meant to them. Cigrand continued to advocate for the adoption of a holiday to observe the signiďŹ cance of the ag.

Then in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ofďŹ cially requested that Flag Day be recognized as a national holiday occurring every June 14th, but it was not until President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress on August 3, 1949 that June 14th was ofďŹ cially established as National Flag Day. There are now 27 ofďŹ cial versions of the ag, changing each time a new state was ofďŹ cially added to the nation.

The ag is part of the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of American History in Washington, DC and is one of our nation’s cherished artifacts.

There are many ags in our nation’s capital, but my favorite

GUEST COLUMN

Are social issues hurting Republicans?

Not as much as liberals hope, but the GOP does need to change its rhetoric on some issues.

By KARL ROVE This is a time when it’s necessary to read beyond the headlines. A May 10 Gallup survey shows that the share of Americans calling themselves social liberals has risen to 31% from 25% in 2009, while the share of self-described social conservatives has fallen to 31% from 42%. It is the ďŹ rst time social conservatives have not outnumbered social liberals since Gallup began asking the question in 1999. As recently as 2010, social conser-

vatives led by 17 points.

All this was trumpeted as bad news for Republicans.

But what’s driving this shift is largely Democrats lurching further leftward. In 2010, more Democrats described themselves as social moderates than social liberals, 41% to 37%.

Today, 53% of Democrats are social liberals and 31% social moderates.

The GOP, on the other hand, has become somewhat more socially moderate. Since 2010, the share of Republicans describing themselves as social conservatives has dropped to 53% from 62%. During the same period social moderates rose to 34% from 31% and social liberals grew to 11% from 7%.

Much of this appears to be driven by rapid acceptance of same-sex marriage. In 2009, Gallup found 40% of respon-

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

dents said such marriages should be valid and 57% said they should not. This year, support is at 60% and opposition at 37%. The Supreme Court may settle the issue or perhaps leave it to the states, but acceptance is now 76% among Democrats, 64% with Independents and 37% among Republicans.

The country is not more liberal on all social issues, however, most signiďŹ cantly on abortion.

In January 2003, the 30th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, 39% of Americans told CBS News that abortion should be generally available, 38% favored it being available under stricter limits, and 22% said it should not be permitted. In March of this year, CBS found those numbers were now 38% generally available, 34% available under stricter limits and 25% not permitted.

Nor has the move on social issues been accompanied by a similar shift in economic attitudes. When Gallup ďŹ rst asked in 1999, 44% of Americans described their economic views as conservative and 16% as liberal. Those numbers are now 39% conservative and 19% liberal.

But under President Barack Obama, the country has become somewhat more supportive of bigger government. The Wall Street Journal/NBC poll regularly asks whether government should “do moreâ€? or whether it is “doing too many things better left to businesses and individuals.â€? In December 2009, almost a year after Mr. Obama was inaugurated, 44% said government should do more while 47% said government was doing too much. By November of last year, the ďŹ rst ďŹ gure had risen to 52%, while the second held nearly at at 46%.

Still, in a Washington Post/ ABC News poll the previous month, Americans said by 40% to 33% that Republicans had better ideas about the size and role of the federal government.

What does all this mean for Republicans? Since 43% of all the votes Mitt Romney received in 2012 came from

white evangelical Christians, the GOP would fracture if it abandoned its long-standing support for traditional morality. The Republican Party is the home of cultural conservatives and should remain so, not only for political reasons but also for moral ones.

Yet the GOP must ďŹ nd language that holds social conservatives while attracting socially moderate independents and even Democrats who think their party’s left wing is too wacky.

Republicans have done that on abortion—arguing that while the Supreme Court has held that abortion must be legal, people should ďŹ nd common ground to make sure it’s rare.

Republicans must also treat social conservatives as engaged citizens rather than single-issue voters. This means emphasizing economic and foreign policy issues about which they are deeply concerned this cycle.

Yet the GOP can no longer take for granted the plurality of economic conservative voters. New technologies are disrupting the economy, creating anxiety among working-class Americans. Republicans must offer an agenda that improves their lives. Making the moral case for limited government and greater freedom is important, but not enough. Middleclass voters want concrete answers to real-world concerns about their paychecks, job security, high taxes, education and health care—starting with a comprehensive replacement for ObamaCare.

The GOP’s 2016 campaign must not be one simply of mobilization and turnout, though both are important. It must also be a campaign of persuasion that pulls in millions of Americans who have not voted Republican in recent years. This means nominating a candidate who both excites the base and appeals beyond it. That’s easy to say, harder to do.

A version of this article appeared June 4, 2015, in the U.S. edition of The Wall Street Journal.

midpoint of the agpole, is usually done as a sign of respect following the passing of a head-of-state or other dignitary. The ag is also lowered to half-staff from sunrise until noon on Memorial Day, as a sign of respect for fallen veterans. This is often overlooked, as businesses stay closed on Memorial Day and have no staff on hand to adjust the ag at the correct time.

(3) If there is any confusion about when it is appropriate to display the ag at halfstaff, many online resources can provide the answers. In fact, you can Google halfstaff. org and sign up for an Email notiďŹ cation service that alerts ag owners when they should lower their ags.

(4) At this point in time, the City of Missouri City, Texas has no city ordinances to enforce the Flag Code. Therefore, when you y your ag outside be responsible for abiding by the Flag Code. Refer to the link: https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/4/8 The Flag Code states that the stars and stripes are to be treated as a living symbol of the United States. Flag Day serves as a reminder of everything that has been sacriďŹ ced to keep those colors ying and what should be done to preserve their meaning.

Fly your ag proudly and take a moment to reect on the historic and symbolic importance of the values and sentiments it represents.

is the ag on the USMC War Memorial which represents the sacriďŹ ces that so many have made to preserve our nation’s independence and freedoms.

DISPLAY OF THE AMERICAN FLAG: The American ag is a symbol of freedom, and a lot of people gave up their lives to protect that freedom. There are common mistakes people make when displaying the ag outside.

(1) Leaving the ag up at night without proper illumination. The Flag Code states that it is permissible to leave the ag on display overnight but, if it isn’t lowered at sunset, the ag must be properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

(2) Another is failure to NEXT COLUMN: June 24. observe occasions in which the ag should be lowered to Bowden can be reached at Carhalf-staff. Displaying the ag olynVBowden@aol.com. in this way, by lowering to the

The Arc of Fort Bend County Will Thank Their Volunteers Join us as we honor those who have supported our mission of “improving the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities�.

Register at www.arcoffortbend.org “ Register for an Event�.

Annual Awards Dinner June 29, 2015 Safari Texas “Forum Ballroom� 5:30 pm Special Recognitions Larry Lobue Robert Pourciau Danielle Garrison Outstanding Educators Gina Eastin, Palmer Elementary School Sarah King, Austin Parkway Elementary School Roxella Vaughn, Burton Elementary School Lindsay O'Dell Troche, Oakland Elementary School Mary Fornataro, Fort Settlement Middle School Olga Maldonado, Elkins High School Rita McMahon, Dulles High School Larry Sharp Service Award Dream League, Sugar Land Community Awareness Lee Vela, Clear Channel Outdoor Chairman's Award Charles Swihart, Sugar Land PC Advocacy Award Alan Harris, Sr. Outstanding Employee Jalyn Dimmitt, Fort Bend County Transportation Outstanding Employers Michael Marino, Store Manager, Kroger Store #334, Jeff Priestley, Store Manager, Kroger Store #320 Dalton Smith, Store Manager, Kroger Store #733 David Tallant, Store Manager, Kroger Store #397 Tommi Higgins, Panera Bread James Patterson Volunteer of the Year John Null Family of the Year (2nd & 3rd generations) Melisa & Terry Bell Justin & Maritza Bell Brandon Bell Joe Patterson Jamie & Ricky Holdsworth, Kelly Jo Holdsworth Theresa & Donald Bathe Cody & Courtney Bathe Brittany Bathe & Chad Johnson Patricia & David Smith David Smith, Jr. Parker Smith Sarah & Michael Parkinson, Liam & Luke Parkinson Mikey Cushenberry Barbara Penrod Award Rick Cushenberry

NEWS Cradle of Texas chorus to sing at Skeeters’ baseball game

Cradle of Texas Chorus in Sugar Land is a women’s barbershop chorus under the direction of Holly Ritter. These ladies will be singing the National Anthem at Constellation Field baseball stadium for the Skeeters game on Thursday, June 11th which is Teacher Appreciation Night.

Cradle of Texas chorus is part of Sweet Adelines International, a worldwide organization of female singers of all ages young and old, who meet regularly to practice, socialize,

perform and sing unaccompanied a cappella four part harmony, barbershop style.

Cradle of Texas has been in existence for over 35 years.

Starting out in Angleton in 1978, and later moving to Sugar Land. They meet in Sugar Land every Thursday night to rehearse.

This group of vocally talented women sings familiar songs both well loved and contemporary.

They now have approximately 24 members in the

group and perform for civic organizations, church groups and other community groups throughout the year.

They are always looking to grow membership so if you enjoy singing and fun do come and visit any practices.

Website: CradleofTexas. webs.com; http://www.meetup.com/cradleoftexas-webscom/ Find Cradle of Texas Chorus on Facebook; Call Char for more information - 713 774 3975

Little Wonders Learning Center and School of Wonders break ground

JUNE 10, 2015 • INDEPENDENT • Page 5

FILM REVIEW: San Andreas

This is a well-done disaster flick. Is it as good as “Towering Inferno” (1974) starring Paul Newman and Steve McQueen? No, but it’s better than “Earthquake” (1974) starring Charlton Heston. And can’t you (Larry H.) come up with more modern catastrophe movies for comparison? No, (small dramatic pause) “… those two 1974 films were the original devastation movies and are still my measuring stick.”

Fortunately, I think I have the inside scoop on how this movie was resurrected about three years ago. It went something like this: Several of the Executive Producers hired the primary screenwriter, Carlton Cuse and said “…Carl, you don’t mind if we call you Carl do you? No sir, not for 1.5 large; we’re good. Well, Carl, we want this movie to be straightforward. You mean

like a formula movie? Yes, Carl, keep it simple.”

“Oh, so we’ll have a hero helicopter pilot that also works for the L.A. Fire Department rescue division with an opening scene of saving a blonde damsel in distress in a car hanging off a mountain cliff then cut to the disheveled Cal Tech professor who will explain the upcoming tragic earthquakes in Las Vegas and along the San Andreas fault.

And throw in a broken marriage between the hero and a skank; preferably a hottie from a popular TV series and an exotic female TV reporter (also a TV skank) to spread the word of the impending calamity so the audience will be scared out of their wits. Yes, Carl, you are on the right track.”

“Will there be a big budget? Yes, Carl, money is not a problem; that’s why they call us ‘Executive’ Produc-

ers. Alright, alright, alright!”

(Carl was doing his best McConaughey impression but it lacked a Texas twang).

“Who will be the star so I’ll know how to write for that character? We’ll give you a hint: it’s has to be a modernday Arnold Swarzenegger…. then why don’t we just hire Arnold? Arnold’s almost 67 and he had that whole nanny thing and ‘I’ll be back’ has been used to death. I got it.

The Rock! Sorry, but we don’t call him ‘The Rock’ anymore.

He’s Dwayne Johnson, but you’re right, Carl. Now, get started.”

And that’s how Carlton “Carl” Cuse made one and half million dollars. Good job, Carl. Rock ‘n Roll.

Grade 85. Larry H. www.larryhmoviereviews. com

FILM REVIEW: Entourage and Spy It is now Sunday afternoon, but I made a terrible mistake this past Friday. Because of time conflicts, I chose “Spy” as my primary movie of the week on Friday afternoon and I suffered mightily. Melissa McCarthy is still cute and humorous and “Spy” had its moments especially when Jude Law was on the screen as a James Bond wannabe. But the movie sucked and the entertainment factor is low in spite of a big budget and a skillfully produced flick.

Marjon F. Aucoin, left, Petra Fatemizadeh, Maryam Lumpkin and Marzi Petris.

I saw “Spy” at The FounLittle Wonders Learning Centains. Wow! The updated theter and The School of Wonatres and new lounge chairs ders broke ground on a new made of expensive leather that state of the art 15,000 square go all the way back into a full foot facility this Thursday, reclining position made me June 4, at 2777 Dulles Aveextremely relaxed. I enjoyed nue, Missouri City. The name my chair at 10G more than of the new facility will be The the movie. Oh yeah, customW.I.D.E. School (Wonder, Iners now choose an assigned vestigate, Discover and Eduseat when purchasing a ticket. cate). Once the new building I’ve got mixed emotions about is complete Little Wonders and that.

The School of Wonders will be I have been a huge fan of housed at this location under HBO’s “Entourage” series the new name The W.I.D.E. for years (2004-2011) and School and will also include after much anticipation, we an expansive art studio, have the movie version. As a newly designed class rooms fan, going to the film of a beand custom built garden. loved TV series that has been a monster hit is chancy and full of uncertain expectations.

The success of the show has always been the wacky and In early 2013, Sheriff Troy ing agreement with the United ease the tax burden of the resi- loveable band of four friends who grew up in Queens, then E. Nehls and the executive States Marshals Service is the dents of Fort Bend County.” moved to Hollywood to seek staff of the Fort Bend County flagship agreement, the Shertheir fortune.

Sheriff’s Office Detention iff’s Office continues to mainConstellation Field Suite And one of the twentyBureau began to reach out to tain a steady monthly average available for 4th of July neighboring agencies in an of inmates from the additional Celebration attempt to formulate partner- agreements with the Wharton ships in regards to the hous- County Sheriff’s Office and The Sugar Land Skeeters ing of those agencies’ excess periodically from the Austin will host the Star Spangled The University of Texas County Sheriff’s Office. inmate populations.

Spectacular on Saturday, July MD Anderson Cancer CenSince the inception of the 4 from 7 – 10 p.m. at ConWithin months, the Detention Bureau reached contract contract housing program, the stellation Field. Hospitality ter in Sugar Land will shine a housing agreements with the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s packages including Skeeters’ light on cancer survivors durAustin County Sheriff’s Of- Office has generated gross suite experiences are now ing Survivorship Night, a free, fice, Wharton County Sher- revenue of $5,045,019.24 available to this family-fun, family-friendly concert on iff’s Office, Waller County with net revenue reaching patriotic event. For more in- Friday, June 26 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Sugar Land Town and the United States Mar- $4,072,763.14. formation on the Hospitality Square.

“The Sheriff’s Office bud- package and pricing for the shals Service.

During the live music event, Since May, 2013, the get is approaching $60 million Star Spangled Spectacular, MD Anderson will light the Sheriff’s Office has housed a annually,” said Sheriff Troy E. call 281.240.4487 or email central lawn red in recognidaily average of 150 prison- Nehls. “The monies generated sferriera@sugarlandskeeters. tion of local survivors. The ers. While the contract hous- through this program will help com.

County jail earns revenue by housing prisoners from other agencies

somethings turned out to be the heart-throb movie star Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier). The other three were various levels of hangers-on who made up the modern-day rat pack of four having fun as single men constantly chasing women, smoking a little weed, and dealing with numerous issues of insecurities and rejection. But the four of them stuck together and truly had each other’s back even though they taunted each other unmercifully. And they drove really cool cars.

Other than Vince, we had Eric (Kevin Connolly) the business manager, Johnny Drama (Kevin Dillon) the older brother of Vince and a frustrated bit actor, and Turtle (Jerry Ferrara) the driver and gadabout who made a lot of money in the tequila business.

And the straw that stirred their drink was Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) the high-powered agent

for Vinnie who would do anything to make a deal while holding a cell phone in each hand and knife to stab someone in the back if needed.

All five of these characters were extremely charming and likeable in the HBO series and thankfully in this movie, too.

Kudos to Doug Ellin who has been on board since the beginning and he directed and wrote the screenplay for “Entourage” the movie.

That’s a magnificent accomplishment that Ellin was able to transfer the achievements of the TV show into 105 minutes of fun and amusement without losing any of the allure and charisma of these five enchanting personalities.

I recommend this movie even if you haven’t seen or heard of “Entourage” before now.

Rock ‘n Roll.

Entourage: Grade 90.

Larry H. www.larryhmovierevies.com

MD Anderson brings free concert to Sugar Land Town Square in celebration of cancer survivorship evening’s music – performed

by Johnny and the Spinsations – and lights are open to everyone in the community.

All attendees will also be invited to take part in an interactive photo booth that will be roaming the crowd during the event.

Additionally, MD Anderson physicians and staff will be on hand during the night to answer questions, pass out

free educational materials and light-up, LED wristbands, and spread the messages of cancer survivorship and hope. A special gift will be presented to local survivors.

More information about the event is available here. To learn more about MD Anderson in Sugar Land, visit www.

MDAnderson.org/SugarLand.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • JUNE 10, 2015

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE Riverstone SL •$615,000•3/2-21/2/2 3910

Sienna Plantation MC•$819,900•4/4.1/3 34TT

Anita Milne

Knowledgeable! Experienced!

Hardworking!

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Action Oriented!

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281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group Meadows Place•Kangaroo•5/3/0

Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor (281) 414-8400

www.ArleneRolsen.com

First Colony SL • $375,000• 5/31/2/21902M

Lake Pointe Sugar Land $498,975 3/3.1/2

Meadows Place•Blair Meadow•4/2/2 Meadows Place•Valencia• 3/2.5/2

SOLD

$159,000 $159,000

$152,500

Meadows Place•Meadow Crest•4/2/2

Meadows Place•Level Run•4/2/2

$194,500 Meadows Place•Amblewood•3/2/2

1326LP

SOLD

$179,000

$149,900

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 for Satya Morton, being a replat of Restricted Reserve “A” of Long Meadow Farms Commercial Reserve Sec. 4 Amending Plat No. 1, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing.

You may contact Mary M. McKenzie with Hovis Surveying Company, Inc. at 281320-9591 or hovis@hovissurveying.com, for information prior to the hearing.

Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

City of Missouri City ORDINANCE NO. O-15-33 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS, ESTABLISHING TEMPORARY MAXIMUM SPEED LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SCHOOL ZONES LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY FOR SUMMER SCHOOL, INCLUDING DESIGNATING LOCATIONS, DATES AND TIMES; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. I, Maria Gonzalez, City Secretary of the City of Missouri City, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the caption of said Ordinance No. O-15-33 approved on first and final reading by the City Council at its regular meeting held on June 1, 2015, as the same appears in the records of my office. /s/ Maria Gonzalez City Secretary PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Long Meadow Farms, Section 32, Precinct 4.

The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Providence at Riverstone, Section 2, Precinct 4.

The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 for Grand Corner Reserves partial Replat No. 6, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas.

Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing. You may contact Salvador Cisneros with Brown & Gay Engineers at 281-558-8700 for information prior to the hearing.

CITATION BY PUBLICATION HONORABLE KENNETH S. CANNATA JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 3 FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Case No. 10-JCV31-07255 MARVIN WILLIAMS Vs PALITRIA WILLIAMS THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND § JUSTICE COURT § JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 3 § FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS TO: Palitria Williams (WHEREVER HE/ SHE MAY BE FOUND) DEFENDANT, GREETINGS: Notice to Defendant: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file an answer with the court who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.

You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiffs Petition at or before 10:00 o’clock A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of 42 days after the date of issuance of this citation before the Honorable Kenneth Cannata Justice of the Peace, Pet 3, 22333 Grand Corner Dr. Suite 102 Katy TX 77494, Fort Bend County, Texas. Said Plaintiffs Petition was filed in said court on this the 25th day of August, 2010 in the above entitled cause.

A brief statement of the nature of this suit is as follows, to-wit: Documents retained by Justice of the Peace, Pct 3, as is more fully shown by Plaintiff ’s Petition on file in this suit.

Issued and given under my hand, Texas on this the 3rd day of June, 2015.

Submitted by, Laura Richard Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Honorable Kenneth S. Cannata Fort Bend County, Texas

By Sherry L. French, Deputy Justice Court

Notice of Substandard Structure Order in the City of Missouri City Street Address: 1819 Creighton Drive, Missouri City, Texas 77459 Date of Public Hearing: June 1, 2015 Results of Order: Order No. O-15-01 City Council finds the building and structures located on such property to be public nuisances.

The owner, Roosevelt C. Nash, Jr., or any lawful grantee(s), heir(s), or assign(s), is hereby ordered, in accordance with the schedule provided in the Order, to repair, demolish or remove the building and all other structures and improvements located within the private property boundaries, including the concrete slab and driveway foundations, within 30 days of the Order. In the event that the owner fails or refuses to repair, demolish or remove such building and all other structures and improvements located within the private property boundaries, in the ordered timeframe, then any lienholder(s) or mortgagee(s) is hereby ordered to commence the repair, demolition, or removal of such building and all other structures and improvements within the private property boundaries, including the concrete slab and driveway foundations, within 40 days of the Order with the completion of the repair, demolition or removal of the building or structure to be finished within 60 days of the Order. In the event that the owner and lienholder(s) fail or refuse to repair, demolish or remove such building, and all other structures and improvements located within the private property boundaries, then such building and all other structures and improvements within the private property boundaries, including the concrete slab and driveway foundations, may be demolished and removed at the expense of the City and the expenses of such demolition and removal shall be assessed against the owner and may be assessed on the property by the filing of a lien against the land in accordance with the provisions of Article XI of Chapter 14 of the Missouri City Code of Ordinances and in accordance with state and federal law.

A complete copy of the Order may be obtained from the City Secretary of the City of Missouri City, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77489.

CITATION BY PUBLICATION DIVORCE TO: MICHAEL RORY HILL, and to all whom it may concern, Respondent GREETINGS: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The ORIGINAL PETITION FOR DIVORCE of VICKI LEAH HILL was filed in the 328TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County, Texas, May 22, 2015 against MICHAEL RORY HILL, being numbered 15-DCV223638 and entitled IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF VICKI LEAH HILL AND MICHAEL RORY HILL. The suit requests DIVORCE. The court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree dissolving the marriage and providing for the division of property which will be binding on you. The Court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding upon you, including the termination of the parent-child relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said court in Richmond, Texas on this the 1st day of June,2015.

Petitioner’s Attorney: NANCY LUSK ATTORNEY AT LAW 101 SOUTHWESTERN BLVD STE 211 SUGAR LAND TX 77478 281-242-2700 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Deputy District Clerk Michele Olguin 281-633-7649

CITATION BY PUBLICATION STATE OF TEXAS TO: TELLISH CORNELIUS COPELAND 116 WATSON STREET CARROLLTON GA 30117 and to all whom it may concern, Respondent(s), You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office.

Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469.

We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The petition of TOCHUKWU TIKOOKOYE, Petitioner, was filed in the 387TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County, Texas ON THIS THE 11TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2015 against TELLISH CORNELIUS COPELAND, Respondent(s), numbered 15-DCV-221058, and entitled IN RE: FRANCESCA LA’MYA COPELAND, A MINOR CHILD. The suit request CHANGE OF NAME OF CHILD as is more fully shown by Petition on file in this suit.

The date and place of birth of the ch ild(ren) who is/are the subject of the suit NOVEMBER 11, 2008 RICHMOND, FORT BEND, TEXAS The Court has authority in this suit to render an order in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding on you, including the termination of the parent-child relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 2nd day of June, 2015.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER OR RESPONDENT: KRISTIN K. KLINE ATTORNEY AT LAW 11211 KATY FREEWAY SUITE 560 HOUSTON TX 77079 713-647-6630 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Deputy District Clerk Valeria Ramos 281-633-7620

$138,500

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT MONOPOLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWER Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing 6:30 p.m. June 25, 2015, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed Conditional Use Permit to construct a monopole telecommunications tower on a portion of 1.7 acres, 7830 U.S. Highway 90A, within a Restricted Industrial (M-1) zoning district; identified as Sidarous Plaza in the S.M. Williams League Abstract 97 and the Alexander Hodge League Abstract 32 (F.B.C.O.P.R. Instrument No. 20010536, Vol. 4510, Pg. 746).

Details of the proposed Conditional Use Permit may be obtained by contacting City of Sugar Land Development Planning Office by email planning@sugarlandtx. gov or phone (281) 275-2218. The agenda item for this meeting will be published on the City website www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas, Minutes, and Videos” Planning and Zoning Commission no later than Friday, June 19, 2015.

FORT BEND COUNTY EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT FY 2015 NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program (42 U.S.C. 3751(a)) is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. JAG funds support all components of the criminal justice system, from multi-jurisdictional drug and gang task forces to crime prevention and domestic violence programs, courts, corrections, treatment, and justice information sharing initiatives. JAG-funded projects may address crime through the provision of services directly to individuals and/or communities and by improving the effectiveness and efficiency of criminal justice systems, processes and procedures.

A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2015, at 1:00 p.m., at the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court, 2nd floor, Historic Courthouse, 401 Jackson, Richmond, Texas, to receive comments from the public regarding the allocation of the FY 2015 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) application for funds in the amount of $62,655.00.

These funds may be used for local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and criminal justice information systems for criminal justice that will improve or enhance such areas as: law enforcement programs, prosecution and court programs, prevention and education programs, corrections and community corrections programs, drug treatment and enforcement programs, planning, evaluation and technology improvement programs, crime victim and witness programs. The public is invited to attend and to submit comments to Commissioners Court. Comments will be incorporated into the draft FY 2015 JAG application, as appropriate.

A link to the Fort Bend County Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Narrative and Budget will be available for public review on the County’s website at www.fortbendcountytx.gov in the News section. For more information contact Jenetha Jones, Grants Coordinator, by phone at 281-3443994 or by email at jenetha.jones@fortbendcountytx.gov.

NOTICE Policy of Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Disability Fort Bend County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. The County’s ADA Coordinator is the Director of Facilities Management & Planning, located at 301 Jackson Street, Suite 301, in Richmond, Texas, 77469, telephone 281-238-3090. The Director of Facilities Management & Planning is designated to coordinate compliance with the non-discrimination requirements in Section 35.107 of the Department of Justice regulations. Information concerning the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the rights provided thereunder, are available from the ADA coordinator

NOTICE TO BIDDERS UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD EXTENSION PROJECT The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: Roadway & Drainage Improvements from University Boulevard, US 90A, and New U.P.R.R. Crossing CIP PROJECT NUMBER: ST1209 LOCATION OF WORK: US 90A, North of University Boulevard Intersection, 0.37 miles Northeast of Intersection of US 90A and SH6, Sugar Land, TX Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained with a nonrefundable payment of $50.00 from the Project Engineer Michael Maresh, P.E., (713) 821-0430, Lockwood, Andrews, and Newnam, Inc., 2925 Briarpark Drive, Suite 400, Houston, TX 77042.

Sealed bids, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 25, 2015 at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2015, in the Cane Room, City of Sugar Land City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

For questions regarding this bid contact Michael Maresh, P.E., MJMaresh@lan-inc. com, Lockwood, Andrews, and Newnam, Inc. (713) 821-0430 on or before 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, June 18, 2015.

The City will award the contract and give notice of award within ninety (90) calendar days after the opening date and time.

Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2015 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. All addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www. fortbendcountytx.gov.

BID 15-078 –EXTERIOR PAINTING OF VARIOUS BUILDINGS A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 9:00AM (CST). The pre-bid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Sugar Land Annex, located at 12550 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX. Site visits to each location will commence following pre-bid. All bidders are encouraged to attend.

This is the only date and time vendors will be permitted to complete a site visit.

Payment will be by check. Bonds are required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE 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, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2015 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the proposers made public.

Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

1. RFP 16-008 – TAIP SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT FOR CSCD; 2. RFP 16-009 – DRUG COURT SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT COUNSELING FOR CSCD Detailed unit pricing is required.

Bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2015 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. CDs are available in the Purchasing Agent’s Office. All addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx. gov.

BID 15-076 – STAFFORD RUN WATERSHED IMPROVEMENTS FOR INDEPENDCE PARK CONCRETE WEIR A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 9:00AM (CST). The pre-bid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Travis Annex at 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, Texas 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend.

Unit pricing required; payment will be by check. Bonds are required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

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13115 Southwest Freeway (at Highway 90-A) • Sugar Land 281-969-4132 • 877-284-0644 • classicchevysugarland.com Pictures for illustration purposes only. Subject to prior sale. Price plus t.t.l. with approved credit, prices good day of ad only. Incentives subject to change. Residency restrictions apply. Not responsible for typos. In stock vehicles only; no dealer trades. Price on all new vehicles is MSRP less factory rebates less dealer discounts plus t.t.l. Special rates in lieu of factory rebates. Offer ends 6/8/2015. Advertised specials may be dealer demonstrators or courtesy transportation units and may have mileage up to 5500 miles. To qualify for Trade Assist, you must finance with GM Financial. 2015 Silverado CC EX #149414. Chevy Rebate 3250, Classic Discount 4593, Selling Price $31,372. 2015 Silverado DC EX. #272809. MSRP $36,885, Chevy Rebate 2250, Classic Discount 5127, Selling Price $29,508. 2014 Silverado EX. #429543. Cruise Chevy Rebate 1500, Classic Discount 1181. Malibu EX #R82673. Chevy Rebate 2500, Classic Discount 2561. Camaro Chevy Rebate 1500, Classic Discount 1651. Equinox Chevy Rebate 1750, Classic Discount 1781. Traverse EX. #R93372, Chevy Rebate 2250, Classic Discount 4171. Trax Bonus Cash 1000, Classic Discount 1000.

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