VOL 10 No. 32
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2017
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City
Fort Bend County Alumnae Court dismisses Red Light Camera lawsuit against city Panhellenic announces new board By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County District Judge Jim Shoemake has dismissed a lawsuit against the city of Sugar Land which challenged the legality of Red Light Cameras. Helwig Van Der Grinten, James W. Dalton and Anis Hussain and other class representatives filed the lawsuit on Jan. 30. Along with the City of Sugar Land, Mayor Joe Zimmerman, City Manager Allen Bogard and Police Chief Doug Brinkley were defendants. The plaintiffs alleged that Defendant City of Sugar Land failed to conduct the engineering study required by Chapter 707 and the Ordinance and that City of Sugar Land failed to appoint a citizens advisory committee and failed to present any engineering studies to a citizens advisory committee. Attorneys for the city of Sugar Land, among other things, argued that the city enjoyed “governmental immunity” and the plaintiffs’ lacked jurisdiction. Shoemake found merit in the city’s immunity claim and said the plaintiffs failed to present sufficient facts to overcome the city’s claim of governmental and official immunity. Thus, the court dismissed the petition for want of jurisdiction.
The court also ordered that the city could recover expenses incurred in the lawsuit. The judgement was signed on July 24. Meanwhile, Van Der Grinten and other plaintiffs on Monday filed their Notice of Appeal against the trial court’s order. “Plaintiffs desire to appeal all portions of the order. This appeal is taken to either the First or Fourteenth Court of Appeals,” the notice said. Attorney Scott Steward of Irving, while confirming the notice of appeal, said, “The court dismissed the case for want of jurisdiction. Although the court recites it is based upon immunity, we will be required to appeal each basis raised by Defendants which could possibly support the ruling, and not just the court’s error in ruling
that the claims were barred by immunity.” Attorneys Russell J. Bowman and Stewart are currently working a declaratory judgment case in the 134th Judicial District Court, Dallas County, Texas involving the exact engineering study, citizens advisory committee and constitutional issues raised by this case, namely whether Transportation Code Chapter 707 and ordinances enacted pursuant to same, along with Section 29.003(g) of the Texas Government Code, are constitutional or not, currently on appeal following a judgment for the plaintiff. They are also associated with cases in the 153rd District Court of Tarrant County, the 348th District Court, Tarrant County; the 248th District Court, Montgomery County; the 417th District Court, Collin County, Texas; and the 410th Judicial District Court, Montgomery County, currently on appeal from the court overruling the government entities plea to jurisdiction, so that they are both thoroughly knowledgeable with the issues involved in this case. The city of Sugar Land and other defendants were represented by George A. Staples of the lawfirm Taylor, Olson, Adkins, Sralla & Elam, L.L.P., Fort Worth.
Stafford finance director placed on leave after fours days of work By BARBARA FULENWIDER After three and a half days on the job, Stafford’s new finance director is now sidelined. Three and a half days after she joined the city’s department heads as finance director she learned that a former employer filed a criminal charge against her. She immediately told Stafford Mayor Leonard Scarcella about being filed on for allegedly stealing $236 in travel
charges over a period of two years from a former company she worked for. The allegations from her former employer claimed she diverted some travel expenses, according to Stafford Mayor Leonard Scarcella. “We know he filed this claim against her in Sugar Land and that they sent the allegations to the district attorney’s office. She didn’t know anything about it,” Scarcella
said. “She’d worked three and a half days at city hall and everyone, and especially employees in the finance department, liked her. Right after she told me I put her on leave of absence with pay and benefits until this matter is settled.” He said Susan Magana, the newly hired director of finance and a resident of Missouri City, “has had a lengthy career.”
By TRENT SIEBERT Texas Tribune Teachers unions in Texas have collected at least $115.5 million so far this decade from educators and other school workers — and that figure is perhaps closer to $230 million, a Texas Monitor analysis of teacher association dues collection shows. This analysis appears to be the first that provides a detailed number to how much money teachers unions raise in Texas. The hundred-million-plus tally is likely to add fresh arguments to those fighting for and against legislation being debated in the Texas Legislature prohibiting state and local governments from collecting dues for public unions, dubbed the “paycheck protection” bill at the Capitol. The Texas Monitor examined responses to public record requests sent to every Texas school district, including charter schools seeking to review the total number of payroll deductions sent to any union or employee association from
2010 through 2016. Out of the 1,217 school districts contacted, 636 districts complied with the records request by the deadline. The total amount of dues that these 636 school districts have collected over the requested time period for the four largest teachers unions in Texas adds up to $115.5 million. The total breakdown of money collected between 2010 and 2016 according to records: The Association of Texas Professional Educators collected $35.2 million; The Texas State Teachers Association collected $32.4 million; The Texas American Federation of Teachers collected $31.0 million; and The Texas Classroom Teachers Association collected $16.9 million. The school districts that complied with the request by the deadline account for 348,570 full-time personnel. That is just over half of all employees working in Texas school districts. Using that in-
formation as a starting point, one could extrapolate that teachers unions have collected as much as $228 million since 2010. Supporters of the bill, who have been Republicans, say that the government should have no official role in collecting dues from public union paychecks since taxpayer money is used to do so. This is a common view in many other states that have passed similar legislation, such as Alabama, Arizona, Indiana, Michigan, Oklahoma, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. Opponents of the Texas legislation dismiss that argument, saying that Texas state and local governments are allowed to bill the unions for any time and work done in the process of collecting union dues. The Texas Monitor money analysis shows that perhaps the argument goes beyond those talking points because union money is also used to hire lobbyists to work the halls of the Texas Legislature and unions use their leverage to raise mon-
Fort Bend County Alumnae Panhellenic is pleased to announce our Executive Board for 2017-2018. The new board members are Co-Presidents Liz Furman (Phi Mu) and Kathy Keene (Phi Mu) Co-Vice Presidents Susan Mallios (Pi Beta Phi) and Amy McInnis (Pi Beta Phi), Secretary Debbie Buckner (Zeta Tau Alpha), Treasurer Terrie Gornet (Alpha Delta Pi) and Past-President Heidi Oates (Kappa Kappa Gamma). Panhellenic Board
members include: Above, (lr,) Front Row: Past President Heidi Oates, Co-Presidents Liz Furman and Kathy Keene. Back Row: Treasurer Terrie Gornet, Co-Vice Presidents Susan Mallios and Amy McInnis, and Secretary Debbie Buckner. The Alumnae Board is very excited to announce their calendar of activities scheduled for the coming year. The Panhellenic year will kickoff with “Spice for Life” at Off the Vine Bistro on Sept.,
11, 2017, which will include a tasting menu and the anxiously anticipated recruitment results! The activities for the remainder of the year will offer something for everyone ranging from a cooking demo, personal safety, fashion tips and our annual Recruitment Workshop on Feb. 24, 2018. The annual officer installation and social will be held in April. Follow us on Facebook at Fort Bend Alumnae Panhellenic and Twitter @FBPanhellenic.
She worked for Stafford Municipal School District from 2001-2003, then joined Fort Bend ISD for a larger salary and also worked for private companies as well. The mayor said, “At no time was there ever any indication of any criminality. Nothing indicated she’s ever done anything that was inappropriate in her professional life, with the exception of what this former employee alleges.” The mayor said he interviewed some 25 people for the
finance director job and talked to quite a few mainly through telephone calls. He said one thing he felt was important in hiring her is she knew the local territory. “If there’s anything in her background, for all of her 15 years of work”…it never surfaced until the recent allegations came about. Scarcella said, “Everything we got back on Ms. Magana indicated she was an excellent worker” but “city council has to be absolutely sure that her
integrity and honesty are basically above reproach because she oversees tens of millions of the city’s dollars. We must know that her honesty, integrity and trustworthiness are not beyond reproach.” The allegations were definitely disconcerting to the mayor, who said, “It puts a cloud over the city, over everybody.” City council discussed the situation in closed session at their Monday, Aug. 7 meeting.
Texas teachers unions banked $200 million since 2010 ey that is used for political campaigns. “From a practicality perspective, the Republicans know that to the extent that those dollars are used for politics… that it’s used for Democratic candidates attempting to defeat Republican candidates,” said Mark Jones, a Fellow of political science at Rice University. Jones notes that Republicans are looking at the bill through a philosophical lens, too. “They generally oppose unions, and don’t like that the government is facilitating the unions’ ability to collect dues,” he said. But: “In many ways it’s a ‘twofer,’’ Jones said. “You can vote from a principled perspective as well as a pragmatic perspective.” In Texas, union dues money goes to underwrite “representational activities,” such as mediation proceedings. This cash also supports the day-to-day operations of the unions, such as the salaries of union officials and mundane items such as office rentals, phones, and copy
machines. A large chunk of this money goes to liability insurance, too. In addition, for some teachers unions, a chunk of this money also flows out of state into the coffers of the D.C.-based national teachers’ unions. Indeed, too much money is funneled out of state, some top Texas union officials have privately lamented. And while union dues cannot be used directly to support candidates, the money can be used to start up and support political action committees. This cash can also be used to pay for political mailers and phone calls to members’ homes, and other similar activities. For example, the Association of Texas Professional Educators said they use none of their dues money to fund political candidates. Its members must give additional money beyond their dues if they want to support the union-backed candidates. And plenty of teachers do exactly that through union PACs. The Texas State Teachers Association, which is closely
linked to the National Education Association gave more than $3 million to candidates and causes over the past 20 years, according to the National Institute on Money in State Politics; The Texas Classroom Teachers Association gave $1.2 million; the Association of Texas Professional Educators gave $1.1 million, and; the Texas American Federation of Teachers, which is associated with the national American Federation of Teachers gave just under $1 million. And it’s no secret that unions favor Democratic candidates. On the national level, teachers union PACs overwhelmingly back Democrats. Closer to home, unions back Democrats as well, but less stridently than on the national scene. Just over three-fourths of union campaign contributions went to Democrats since 2000, records show. For example, the Texas Classroom Teachers Association spent more than $1 million to back Democratic state legislative candidates and $611,000 See UNION, Page 3
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017
NEWS
SUGAR LAND SOUND LADIES BARBERSHOP CHORUS. Sing sweet music at Christmas with Sugar Land Sound with our Christmas Elf Program! Starting Thursday Sept. 7, through December 2017. Come try out for free and sing and perform at Christmas. Practices start Sept. 7, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Be a part of the Christmas magic! A group of ladies of all ages, representing the ladies of Sugar Land with their sweet harmonies, make up the Sugar Land Sound Chorus, part of the Sweet Adelines International organization. They meet every Thursday night in Sugar Land at Christ Church, 3300 Austin Parkway, singing unaccompanied four part harmony barbershop style. Music ranges from contemporary, pop, traditional, and classics. There is something for everyone. Get together with friends, sing, have fun and make beautiful harmonies and music! That’s what a cappella barbershop is all about. Come and visit this fun group of ladies at practice and hear what it is all about. If you can hold a tune you could be one of the four parts, Tenor, Lead, Bass or Bari. You do not have to be able to read music as you will have learning CDs. You will also have great musical education for singing in four part harmony. To find out more visit www.sugarlandsound.com, email wesingdoyou@aol.com or call Lynn 409 998 2874.
Dulles High Salutatorian Shreyas Balaji wins gold
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Shreyas Balaji, left, was a member of the United States Physics Team consisting of ďŹ ve students that was ranked eighth out of 88 countries at the 48th International Physics Olympiad held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, this past July. The nine-day competition among the world’s top high school physics students consisted of an Experimental Exam and a Theoretical Exam. For his eorts Shreyas received a gold medal and a certiďŹ cate. Asked about his experience, Shreyas said, “Going to the International Physics Olympiad in Indonesia was truly an extraordinary experience, and I’m humbled I could represent the United States in an international competition. “It was amazing, meeting so many accomplished physicists from around the world; everyone there was brilliant. I also deďŹ nitely enjoyed the opportunity to see some of Indonesia in person: it has a distinct culture in many ways dierent from the States. I’m proud to have come back with a gold medal-it’s a concrete symbol of all the eort I’ve put in learning physics the past several years. “Yeah, I deďŹ nitely liked physics a lot, and I thought the IPhO was a rewarding experience.â€?
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017 • Page 3
NEWS
SMSD to hold $62 million bond election By BARBARA FULENWIDER The second time around was the charm for the Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD). Officials of the only municipal school district in Texas got Stafford City Council members to unanimously vote to put a $62 million bond referendum on the November ballot. It happened at their Aug. 2 meeting and went smoother than the district’s first try. The first time district officials tried, the proposed $79.4 million referendum failed because three council members believed it was rushed through and said they had not had time to study the proposal and three others voted in favor. This time SMSD had new architects on board who scaled down projects that scaled down costs. There was some opposition and questioning from council members about the various amounts and what they would buy SMSD students and taxpayers. When it came time to vote all said yes. It was council’s only job for their first agenda item because the law does not allow them to express an opinion in favor or against. Scarcella said, “We can either call the election and put it on the ballot or not but we cannot urge it?” When the architect with Andrews Kurth LLP stepped to the podium she told council the bond issues is focused on a vision that will “enhance the sense of community, provide a community library, a volunteer and community building, make the campus more safe and secure and provide the district’s first magnet school to better prepare students.” She also said the bond referendum is a “community driven process” that began on May 15 this year and continued to July 19. What voters will cast a vote on in November is $33.8 million to build a new stand alone middle school that will offer some 850 students “their own identity,” their own cafeteria, auditorium,
Union From Page 1 on Republicans over the past 20 years, according to an analysis from the National Institute on Money in State Politics. In addition, the Texas State Teachers Association has given $2.7 million to Democrats and $570,000 to Republicans, the same report shows.. Association of Texas Professional Educators lobbyist Mark Wiggins argues, though, that the paycheck legislation is more complex than a simple Republican vs. Democrat issue. “It’s not so much a Republican thing as it is a policy thing,” Wiggins told The Texas Monitor. “One of the biggest debates we’re having at the capitol right now is over the privatization of the public school system, through vouchers and things that operate like that, such as the efforts to privatize public pensions.” He said the backers of those policies are the ones that want to stop unions cold, and some union workers say that the Texas legislators pushing this bill are seeking to replicate what happened in Wisconsin. A hotly contested 2011 law passed by the Republicancontrolled Wisconsin Legislature stripped many perks and benefits from the public unions there. In part, that law put prohibitions on government employers withholding union dues from workers’ paychecks. Now, union membership
gym and library and add more school room light. The old middle school building of some 35 year will be repurposed into a magnet facility for grades 3-9. The improvements to it include relocating technical and non-instructional rooms, reworking the entrance to the cafeteria and adding learning Sadie Williams, a co-chair of the latest SMSD bond referendum committee, announced at the council meeting that a state of Texas historical marker celebrating the founding of SMSD will be unveiled on Oct. 8 from 2-4 p.m. at the campus. labs. It is estimated to cost $2.9 million. Updating the pre-K facilities will run $1.6 million. Costs are estimated at $2.7 million for the elementary school. That money will refigure classrooms for 1-5 grades, get an expanded library, restrooms in the life skills room and new playground equipment. For $1.7 million the high school improvements will provide a renovated library with separate community access and restrooms, study rooms, a Black Box Theater renovation, and Life Skills restroom and renovations and a private office for the assistant coach. Other expenses include more streets, sidewalks and bike lanes, landscaping, a community facility, a new and larger administration building and advertising of the district via banners, increased lighting and monument signage, etc. Early choodhood innovation will cost $1.6 million, the AG barn expansion, $400,000; technology, $1.5 million; transportation, $1.5 million, mechanical update and roof repairs, $450,000, landscape, hardscape and gates, $2.9 million. Purchasing land from the city at half price will cost SMSD $1.250 million and the contingency amount on the bonds is 3 percent. Bond supplement projects are $1 million. Andrews Kurth LLP pared in Wisconsin is down nearly 40 percent. “What they want to do is hand over our schools and retirement systems to private businesses,” Wiggins said. ”What better way to do that than to keep people who are defending schools out of the way.” The Texas Senate last week passed its version of the bill by a 19-12 vote. No Democrats voted for the legislation and Republican State Sen. Robert Nichols of Jacksonville broke with his party, joining the Democrats in a ‘no’ vote. The debate now moves to the House.
down costs on the campus size renovation, etc. The first proposal by another architectural firm on the middle school configuration was estimated at $41 million and included a second floor added to the existing building rather than an entire new building. “Clunky” parts of the plan for the bond referendum were noted by Mayor Leonard Scarcella. He said the city’s chief of police said the traffic flow plan “will never work. And another classic example is they have a middle school with a big auditorium in the middle of it when the school district already has one of the best auditoriums in this area. “Those are two classic examples where they are supposedly doing their due diligence. Instead they are just out there trying to spend $62 million.” Councilman Cecil Willis said with $62 million and what the district is already in debt for “tell me another area/ school district that has seven square miles with this much debt. This will put SMSD owing $212 million.” The mayor followed saying seven square miles divided into $212 million is $30 million a square mile. Scarcella went on to say “the district says the bonds will only increase taxes per year by $100 for homeowners. People at the bottom won’t pay off this bond. They will get a huge benefit out of the homestead exemption of 20 percent. Tell me about the flip side of that! If you are in the top 10 percent or at least half, you will be paying $7.5 million more in taxes. We’re asking businesses to pay it all.” The district says property owners who are 65 years of age or more will have no tax increase from the new bond issue. Those under 65 years old will pay $8.76 more a month based on a property value of $100,000. The maintenance and operations costs of the new campus are expected to increase $497,000 annually.
Friends of University Branch Library The Friends of the University Branch Library will hold their fall book sale Saturday, September 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the library, 14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land. Books, CDs, DVDs and LPs for adults and children will be available. Most items are $0.50 to $1.00.
Tip of the Spear continues supply drive for troops
Laika on her first deployment. We love our two legged and four legged soldiers We have had a very productive July! Attached are some pictures of some of our adopted groups receiving our packages. The pooch in the picture is Laika on her first deployment. We love our two legged and four legged soldiers! Thank you to all who stepped up on short notice and donated thermal coffee mugs, socks, and foot powder (a special request from our troops). The response has been wonderful and there are still items coming in for this month. In a note from one of the First Sergeants, he stated that they have been “out and about” and are just getting back to base. We are in awe of the conditions they have to endure while on missions to combat zones and are grateful for the opportunity to boost morale. Tip Of the Spear is a 100% volunteer organization. We pay no salaries and are a certified 501(c)(3) tax deductible entity. Our mission is to supply essential and non-essential items to our troops deployed in hazardous conditions. Please visit our Face Book page and LIKE us. You can also visit our web page, www. TipOfTheSpear.org to make a pay pal donation or send a check to PO Box 3083, Sugar Land, Texas, 77487. Thank you all for joining our mission and your continued support! You all make the packings to our troops possible! —Mary Williams Proceeds support reading and other educational library programs. Good condition books, CDs and DVDs may be donated to the library during the sale, or at any time. A receipt for income tax purposes can be provided. The library is located on the University of Houston campus at Hwy. 59 and University Blvd. Parking is free.
Socks sent to these troops as per their request.......
What they found when they returned to their base........
After being away from the base they returned to find boxes full of things requested by the troops...
SLPD to Target Highway Impaired Driving
Sugar Land police will target drunk driving from Aug. 18 through Sept. 3. The Labor Day holiday enforcement is funded by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) through a Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant. The STEP grant is administered through H-GAC and provides overtime funds for enhanced DWI enforcement during holiday weekends when there has traditionally been more alcohol-related traffic incidents. Convicted first-time DWI offenders face penalties that include fines up to $2,000, six months in jail and loss of driver’s licenses for up to a year. The STEP grant also provides overtime for year-round speed compliance in targeted areas, an extra resource that does not affect SLPD’s normal operations.
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9 , 2017
WHEN MY DADDY WENT TO WAR...
WWII – February 1944 Written by Carolyn Bowden “Received your letters of October 2, 15 and 17. (Today is February 1st) I would like to acknowledge receipt of a mirror that is much too nice for me, in a leather case. At one time I found one like that as I rummaged through some junk that another officer had thrown away, only it was not very nice like the one you sent to me.” “I am very lucky to have a job where I can write to my girl whenever I think of her. Yesterday I began a survey of a very historical building that is 213 years old. Sometimes I have to stop and think if I am really here. It took me 2 hours to walk around just one floor and look in the rooms. It will be quite a job to complete it.” “The weather looks rough outside today so I guess I will get wet several times today as my work will be all on the outside and all over the city. Last night several times I dreamed the anti-aircraft guns were firing and I could hear planes overhead and then the bombs come screaming down and the building shakes and then that unmistakable crash of the bomb tearing its target to bits. I woke up tired.” (Mama and Daddy had apparently been writing about having another baby when Daddy came home from the War.) “Since I like your name so well maybe I should name my little baby girl, Kay. We could call her by her middle name. Oh well, who am I to be saying what you will name our new baby. Maybe I am counting my chick before “she hatches.” “Dearest Carolyn, I was thinking if someone was going to remember to carry you and your brother to the Fair this past fall and I am so glad to hear that Mama carried you and that you had a nice time. I am glad that you like to go at night and I will be happy when I can carry you again myself. Sorry your little brother had a “misunderstanding” with another little boy about riding in the little cars. I don’t know why Mama should have thought brother would be afraid of a ride. We men are not usually afraid. I am sure you enjoyed the little men and ladies. Whoever heard of hamburgers being made out of horses. We ride horses, not eat them.” “Last night I went to the Picture Show and saw a western. Wish we had some way of finding out what is going to be on. We never know till it comes on the screen. The moon was perfect when I returned. I was thinking it would be a good night for a “Bomber’s Moon”, but “jerry” was nice enough to let us sleep in peace. Maybe tonight he will pay us a call.” (Calling a German soldier, a “jerry/jerri” comes from English slang. The helmets worn by German soldier resembled chamber pots (portable vessel used as a toilet), which in English slang were called “jerries”). “There is plenty snow on top of the mountain, but Gillespie and myself are still going up on top of the highest peak. We shall drive our jeep far as we can and then walk the rest of the way.” “Yesterday I looked closely at an Italian housewife’s kitchen for you. Their stoves are not as good as ours. Only the wealthy have refrigerators of Italian make. Saw a Norge like yours in Prince Urnherto’s (spelling?) home. The sinks are inferior in appearance and grade. Nothing like your WearEver pots (kitchen cooking vessels)”. “I am looking forward to our reunion. Now I can understand why war veterans never speak of the war.” “We are going on a little sightseeing journey. Gillespie and a Major from California
box made with his name on it and his rifle, helmet and sword all ready to pack and get on its way to him. Be sure to explain that the Germans may sink the boat and he may never receive it. Be sure to tell me what he thinks of it when he gets the box. Will send Carolyn a separate package.” “Last night I went to see a real good show. I believe it was called a “Thousand Cheers” and was very good starring Mickey Rooney. Our Army newspaper, “Stars & Stripes”, Bowden reproduced the “Reader’s Diare going with me along with gest” and placed it in the paper the interpreter. Last night I free. Paper cost 2 cents each visited in an Italian home and copy. as usual our sentences were “Went shopping today and made up of English, French, bought myself a pair of garItalian, Spanish and German. ters.” We enjoyed the evening very “Went shopping just now much. My Italian is improv- and bought a candy bar and ing. two packs of gum. Also sent February 14, 1944: “Just my little family a little present received your nice Christmas with my very best wishes for a box of September 29th. Al- happy Easter. Be sure to see most 5 months trying to find its that our little girl and boy attends our Easter egg hunt. Did you receive the Valentine present?” “Last night I went to see a Picture Show and as usual it was full of war. I would prefer to go to a show that took you away from fighting. I have my coke ration card now. I can get 3 per week.” “I had my first coke yesterday since we left Camp Edwards. Yes, I still remembered how to sip it. Does Jerry still tell his big sister to sip her coffee?” Picture of Jerry wearing the Gljjman hel- “Capt. Grimes met and a little Italian carbine Daddy had asked me out to sent to him. supper last night and his Mess Sgt. way to me. Even before I open fried pork chops for us. Capt. it I want to thank you so very Grimes said he used to work much for whatever is in it.” for Day’s on 13th Street. He “Secured a nice stream lined has been on duty ever since alarm clock yesterday. The 1933. He has a lovely girl first one I have had, thanks to that he married in Florida that my ability to awaken just as an came over in 1935.” (Day’s alarm would awaken me.” on 13th Street seems to imFebruary 23, 1944: “I soon ply a restaurant. I’m not sure will have been in the army two if Capt. Grimes was talking years and away from my little about himself or his Mess Sgt. family for eleven months. The who worked at Day’s. Daddy two years is not so bad but the was a dinner guest of Captain 11 months is terrible, how- Grimes and this usually means ever, I am glad God answered just those two and the cook.) your prayers to spare my life. “Yesterday I bought you a Wish you would ask him again box of Kleenex and will ship sometime to let me keep hav- it to you along with a souvenir ing the pleasure of writing to for Florence (Daddy’s only sisyou and looking forward to the ter) and Gus (his oldest brothday when I can again hold you er). Both are letter openers. close.” I have yours but will have to (Daddy was called up for keep it as it has the name of the duty because he was in re- city printed on it, where I am.” serves through college ROTC “Tell Carolyn and Jerry that – January 23, 1942 – deployed at the picture show last night I April 28, 1943.) saw “Pistol Packing Mama”!!” “Yesterday I received a let- (1943 American comedy film) ter from a Pvt. Glenn Rund “Capt. Wilson came to the ofwho used to be in my compa- fice to see me yesterday. I carny. I shall go out to see him the ried him to my apartment and first chance I get.” let him sit in my easy chair and “Yesterday I talked with an showed him my snap shots. officer from Col. John Wil- Carried him to our hotel mess son’s outfit. He said he knew and let him eat with my driver John’s C.O. I now have his ex- out of real china and with silact address and I plan to get the verware, sitting down at a taColonel’s sedan and go out to ble. I then carried him home. see him tomorrow. He is about He is back with his company. 12 miles from where I am lo- But, for now, he is well.” cated.” NEXT COLUMN: March & “Tell my little boy I have a April 1944 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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LETTER Is Metro Rail the answer to Houston’s commuting nightmare? To the Editor: Metro Rail is definitely the most expensive option, especially for Missouri City residents. Since the 1970s, Missouri City has contributed almost $80 million of its sales tax revenues to Metro, with the hope that commuter rail would come to their town. The proposed Main Street rail line is now a low priority mainly due to larger commute populations in Harris County, lack of affordable space to locate a line along Main Street, and virtually no congressional support. So, what does Missouri City have to show for the tens of millions of tax money invested? Virtually nothing, Metro has furnished several buses (fares required) to allow a few hundred Missouri City commuters to connect with the existing rail line. This lack of equity in reciprocated services has caused many residents to cry foul. Missouri City has changed considerably since the 1970s when many of the city’s residents were commuting to the Med Center and needing a rail
line. Now, the majority of the city’s commuters are commuting to downtown or other business centers in west Houston. Moreover, Missouri City’s residents are noticing that the City is not competitive, that development of their area has been stifled by the Metro appropriations, and that other nearby cities including Sugar Land are free to use their (unallocated to Metro) sales tax revenues to incentivize development. Highway 6 development in Missouri City has been significantly impacted with the larger, better known companies and restaurants unwilling to locate there without City financial support. Metro’s contract with Missouri City has some disturbing facets, the first being that Metro has no apparent obligation to return the City’s funds if no rail line is built, making the City’s “contribution,” a real contribution. So basically, Missouri City has to live with a 1970’s decision until their contract ends in 2025. At that time, Metro
will undoubtedly ask for a contract extension. Second, the contract prohibits elected and administrative officials from openly opposing Metro taxes. So, the City’s elected officials, the real voice of the community and any opposition to the Metro tax are effectively muzzled with a provision that if they do oppose, tax penalties will be imposed. This provision leaves opposition to the tax allocation solely in the hands of residents to repeal, if they can gather the needed facts and support to do it. As expected, politicians with more tenure in office support the tax allocation, saying it was a wise decision. The bottom line to all of this is that Missouri City taxpaying residents have paid tens of millions of dollars to Metro and received virtually nothing in return. There are those who would respond that this is “Life in the Big City.” Unfortunately, that may be true for Missouri City residents. Howard E. Moline Missouri City
Dotson named CEO of AccessHealth
The Board of Directors of AccessHealth announced on August 3rd that Michael R. Dotson, CPA, has been named Chief Executive Officer of the organization effective immediately. Dotson has been serving in the interim capacity for the past six months. “We are pleased to announce that Mike has accepted the position as he has done an outstanding job as Interim Chief Executive Officer,” stated David Timmermeyer, Board President. Over the past several months the Board has worked with a national recruiting firm, specializing in executive healthcare positions. The Board interviewed several national candidates, and Dotson was selected as the top choice to continue in the CEO role. Dotson has an extensive background in healthcare, business, finance and organizational leadership and has
Dotson used those skills over the past year to make significant contributions to AccessHealth. “I am honored to accept the position of CEO and to help continue the important work the organization does. I wholeheartedly support AccessHealth’s mission of ‘being
dedicated to excellence in providing integrated healthcare services to improve the quality of life in the communities it serves.’ I feel my primary duty is to support our providers and staff by growing accessibility and ensuring the stability of our organization in light of the current challenges in the healthcare environment. Further, we will need to be flexible and viable in order to continue to serve our growing communities,” said Dotson. AccessHealth provides integrated healthcare services without regard to income or circumstance. AccessHealth is a United Way agency, and the main Center in Richmond is recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance. For more about AccessHealth, please contact Cindy Reaves at (281) 633-3169 or creaves@ myaccesshealth.org.
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017 • Page 5
NEWS ShayoNano opens Nano Technology Production Center in Fort Bend Following a nationwide search, ShayoNano has selected Fort Bend County as its first U.S. production facility for innovative paint additives based on patented nano technology. The journey to Fort Bend started with the 2014 SelectUSA Investment Summit where ShayoNano representatives got to hear from President Barack Obama, who attended the conference, and Berkshire Hathaway’s Warren Buffett via video conference. The summit is designed to bring together foreign companies considering investing in the United States with economic development organizations, government officials and others. Following the summit, Chief Executive Officer Mahesh Patel said he drove from Houston to Miami looking for a suitable location for a U.S. production facility. “South Carolina, North Carolina, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Texas were on our short list,” Patel said. “We met with the governor’s office in each state and narrowed the list to just Florida, Louisiana and Texas.”
After meeting with Houston city officials and the Greater Houston Partnership, Patel and his team thought the Houston area would be ideal. “We looked at infrastructure, energy cost, labor cost, airports and experienced labor — both high-end labor and general chemical workers who would understand safe material handling and process control,” said John Falsone, vice president of sales and marketing for ShayoNano. Patel set up a temporary office in the Houston Technology Center while exploring the area for a permanent facility. “We looked at crime, population, diversity and schools,” Patel said. “It was schools that tipped the scale. My son Dashan wanted to be in Sugar Land so he could attend Fort Bend schools.” Patel opened his Stafford facility in 2016, starting first with a laboratory while designing the production room. Equipment custom engineered for the site began arriving in May, with installation continuing into July. The production facility should be operational mid-July, synthesizing SmartHide™,
an alternative to a primary pigment used in paint. “Our unique process and ability to use recycled materials as feedstocks result in a product that will have a much reduced carbon footprint,” Falsone said. “This approach will not result in highly volatile market pricing as is the case with the current technology used.” Patel said there is a greater efficacy to SmartHide, as well. “It provides more functionality for less material.” ShayoNano also will be manufacturing SmartIR™ from the Stafford facility. SmartIR is a synthetic additive for paint primarily used on roofs. Patel said his Stafford site, which has an annual capacity of at least 300 tons, is a test site. “We expect to build a larger facility that will be 100 to 200 times larger,” he said. “The potential market for our products is in excess of $2 billion.” Patti Worfe, Economic Development Director for the City of Stafford, said she has already begun working with Patel on site opportunities for expansion in the area.
From left, Jeff Wiley, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council; Mahesh Patel, Chief Executive Officer of ShayoNano; and Cyriac Alexander of the Alexander Technical Institute cut the ribbon on a new ShayoNano production facility. “Nurturing and growing Chief Executive Officer of the Bend into a world class locacompanies like ShayoNano is Fort Bend Economic Develop- tion for business and coma core objective of the city,” ment Council, has been equal- merce,” Wiley said. “ShayoWorfe said. “They chose Staf- ly active in the development Nano’s move to Fort Bend ford based on a combination and expansion of the company County is validation that the things we are doing are workof business and quality of life in Fort Bend County. “Over 30 years ago, we set ing to attract both U.S. and inissues, including the city’s out as an organization and ternational companies and inzero property tax rate.” Jeff Wiley, President and community to develop Fort vestment to our community.”
Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land plans new walk-in orthopedics injury clinic
Elizabeth Vargas, BSN, RN; Debra Bradley, Unit Administrative Assistant; Gracie Rodriguez, Insurance Verifier; Sabrina Taylor, BSN, RN
New infusion therapy suite opens in Sugar Land
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has opened a new infusion suite — in addition to the existing oncology infusion suite — allowing patients suffering from a variety of conditions to receive infusion therapy in a convenient, comfortable environment. The new suite is located on the first floor of Medical Office Building 2 on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land campus. It will serve as many as seven patients at one time, with three private infusion rooms and one group room
with four chairs. The suite will include televisions in the private rooms, warm blankets and a snack station. Patients will be treated by chemotherapy-credentialed nurses from the Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land. “Infusion immunotherapy provides a wide range of benefits for many patients suffering from inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and Crohn’s disease,” said Amy SebastianDeutsch, director of oncology
and infusion therapy services. “Like chemotherapy, many of these medications, though not all, must be administered intravenously, and while some treatments are short, others can take a few hours. Our new suite will make the experience as comfortable and as pleasant as possible for our patients.” For more information on infusion services at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, go to houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 for a physician referral.
Advocates of Healthy Minds in Fort Bend
(Left to right) Thomas Quinlan, Jim Royston, Vanessa Serrato, Lawrence Brown, Eric Pazon, Travis Thibodeaux, and David Calvo. The inaugural 5K for long way in bringing the or- help you learn about mental Healthy Minds and Family ganization’s ideas to fruition. health resources available in Fun Festival has found a part- Along with the 5K at 7 a.m. the area. They’ll also give parner in Momentum Volvo as a for adults and 7:30 a.m. for ents a chance to shop. There will also be an art sponsor in the upcoming event kids (no charge for kids!), on for Advocates of Healthy Saturday, Aug. 26, Fort Bend show brought to you by the citizens will be able to cool best and brightest of local artMinds of Fort Bend. With Evelyn Traylor as ex- off in the Constellation Park ists including FBISD students ecutive director, the organiza- splash pad, pool, and kids can and teachers. The organization’s plans tions is excited to find another use all the energy they have great partner to help raise the left in the playground at the include a curriculum which will be implemented into our awareness and stop the stigma ballpark. Along with the post-run fun schools for 5th-12th grade, associated with mental health in the ballpark, over 30 ven- college age and adults about issues. The event itself will go a dors have offered their time to education and having the
Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land is expanding its walk-in orthopedic injury clinic services for residents of Fort Bend and surrounding areas who need to see an orthopedic specialist right away. Beginning August 1, the orthopedic injury clinic will be open Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., inside Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine’s state-of-the-art patient care facility on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus, 16811 Southwest Frwy., Suite 200. The clinic will be staffed by orthopedists, primary care sports medicine physicians and physician assistants who evaluate and treat patients suffering from acute orthopedic injuries such as sprains or strains, minor dislocations, fractures or broken bones, sports injuries, torn ligaments, injured tendons, painful or swollen joints or possible concussions. However, injuries covered under worker’s com-
Dr. Ashvin Dewan and patient. pensation plans or those suffered in automobile accidents, as well as all spine and back problems, will require scheduling an appointment with a physician. “The walk-in clinic is ideal for patients of all ages who have suffered an injury – maybe playing sports, working out or just doing chores around the house – who need to see an orthopedist right away,” said Ashvin K. Dewan, M.D., fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land. “It’s not intended to be an emergency room for issues that go beyond orthopedics or an urgent care clinic for minor problems. It is designed to help us meet the needs of patients whose injuries fall somewhere in between those categories – and do so quickly and efficiently to ensure they receive the proper care right away. It improves our patients’ access and avoids the busy emergency room — all at the cost of a standard physician office visit.”
“tools” to help them with mental health issues and suicide prevention. “Our non-profit organization advocates and helps people become aware of mental health issues, suicide prevention, and drug and alcohol abuse prevention,” Traylor said, “We will also be participating in physical exercise with one of our many partners.” With the physical exercise and awareness will also come the educational information.
“Education is very important,” Traylor said, “and it helps hearing speakers who can help each individual in many ways and also teach you techniques that can help you with your depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems facing millions daily.” The offices for Advocates of Healthy minds of Fort Bend will open in the fall as a resource center for those dealing with mental health issues. Advocates of Healthy Minds of Fort Bend is grateful for the
The board-certified orthopedists at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine have full access to the hospital’s top-quality imaging and diagnostic tools and casting/bracing will be available on-site if needed. “Patients who suffer an injury often go straight to the emergency room even when it’s clear they need an orthopedist,” said Dewan. “Then they have to make a second appointment to see us. This clinic will eliminate that first step and give patients a sameday option for orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries. It will save patients time and money and ensure they are treated quickly and appropriately.” The walk-in clinic for orthopedic injuries will accept most forms of insurance, and no appointments are necessary. For more information on Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land, go to houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics-sl or call 281.275.0555. opportunity to partner with organizations such as Mental Health America of Greater Houston, Menninger’s, several Veteran Organizations, FBISD, Lamar ISD, Houston ISD, and so many more. Tickets are $9 adults and $7 for kids. You can get your tickets now at the Skeeters box office or online at ticketreturn.com/prod2/ Buy.asp?EventID=215478 —Adam Harris
Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017
AUTOMOBILE: Honda Civic Hatchback FILM REVIEW: The Dark Tower
By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2017 Civic Hatchback joins the 2016 Civic Sedan and Coupe as the third body style in the 10th-generation Civic lineup. Combining Euro-inspired styling and 5-door hatchback versatility with Honda direct-injected turbo engine technology, the Civic Hatchback is designed for buyers seeking an even more expressive, sporty and versatile vehicle. The 2017 Hatchback offers a combination of sporty styling, efficiency, interior utility and premium features and is available in five trims: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L Navi and Sport Touring. All models are powered by a 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine rated at 174 horsepower at 5,500 or 6,000 continuously variable transmission (CVT) rpm for LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims. Torque output is set at 162 lb-ft. between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm when equipped with the CVT. With a 6-speed
manual transmission the torque rating is 167 lb-ft. In Civic Hatchback Sport and Sport Touring models that are designed to benefit from premium unleaded fuel, output jumps to 180 horsepower at 5,500 or 6,000 (CVT) rpm. Torque output crests at 162 lb.-ft. between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm when equipped with the CVT. For Sport models equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, the peak torque rating increases to 177 lb.-ft. The turbocharged engine can be mated to either a sporty CVT (all trims) or a 6-speed manual transmission (LX and Sport trims). In LX, EX, and EX-L Navi models, EPA ratings for CVT-equipped models are 31 city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway and 30/39 mpg for the LX with manual transmission and puts the 5-door Honda Civic Hatchback at the top of its class for fuel economy ratings. The Sport and Sport Touring models are rated at 30/36 miles per gallon and the Sport with manual transmission is
City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE OPENING DATE OF September 12, 2017 AT 2:00 pm. Reconstruction of Ashmont Drive IFB’s may be obtained from the State of Texas Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) at http://esbd.cpa.state.tx.us/ or Onvia/Demandstar at http://www. demandstar.com/. Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the Bid name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of: Purchasing Manager City of Missouri City 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489 prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Responses will be opened on September 12, 2017 at 2:00 pm. PRE-BID CONFERENCE: A non-mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for August 23,, 2017 at 10:00 am in the City Hall Council Chambers at 1522 Texas PArkway, Missouri City, TX 77489. Until final award of the Contract, the OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all Responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the Work otherwise when in the best interests of the OWNER. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.
City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE OPENING DATE OF August 22, 2017 AT 2:00 pm. IFB for the provision of Mosquito Spraying Services IFB # 18-033 Mosquito Spraying Services Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the IFB name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. IFB’s must be delivered to the attention of the Sealed Bid Box, City of Missouri City Purchasing Office, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, Texas 77489, prior to the acceptance deadline. IFB’s marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Responses are opened in public in the City Hall Council Chambers on August 22, 2017 at 2:00 pm. Until final award of the Contract, the OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the Work otherwise when in the best interests of the OWNER. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date. IFB # 18-033 is posted for the duration, including any Addenda, at https://www. demandstar.com/.
City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE OPENING DATE OF August 29, 2017 AT 2:00 pm. RSQ for Vision and Placemaking Plan RSQ # 18-036 Vision and Placemaking Plan Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the RSQ name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. RSQ’s must be delivered to the attention of the Sealed Bid Box, City of Missouri City Purchasing Office, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, Texas 77489, prior to the acceptance deadline. RSQ’s marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Responses are opened in public in the City Hall Council Chambers on August 29, 2017 at 2:00 pm. Until final award of the Contract, the OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the Work otherwise when in the best interests of the OWNER. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date. RSQ # 18-036 is posted for the duration, including any Addenda, at http://esbd.cpa.state. tx.us/.
rated at 30/39 mpg. The Honda Civic Hatchback features an independent suspension system with liquidfilled bushings, sport-tuned electronic power steering with variable gear ratio and 4-channel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake distribution and hill start assist. As for interior packaging, the 2017 Civic Hatchback delivers class-leading volume and cargo area that include an interior of 97.2 cu. ft., best-in-class rear seat legroom of 36 inches and the largest cargo carrying capacity of 25.7 cu. ft. with rear seats up on non-Sport trims. Available on LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims is the Honda Sensing, which includes collision mitigation braking (CMB), forward collision warning integrated with CMB, lane keeping assist system, road departure mitigation (RDM), lane departure warning integrated with RDM and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow. Other available features include Honda Display Audio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (EX and above trims), heated front seats and heated side mirrors, power driver and front-passenger seats, remote engine start and more. The Civic Hatch Sport retails for $21,300. For that you will get lots of safety features, good design and a sporty, fun drive. Equipment on the Sport model include a leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, fiveinch LCD screen with rearview camera, steering wheel mounted controls, Bluetooth audio, automatic climate control, driver’s seat height adjustment. Also a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, power windows and door locks, front auto up/ down windows, tilt and telescopic steering column, push button automatic transmission, fog lights, intermittent windshield wipers, power door mirrors, rear wiper with washer, capless fuel filter, remote entry with security system, tailgate spoiler, dual exhaust and more. Hondas are always fun vehicles to drive. The five-seat Hatchback was turbocharged and had accompanying dual exhausts that piped their song during takeoffs. The Hatchback was also well designed, roomy and accommodating. PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for the addition of “No Parking, Stopping, Standing” signs and “Yield Here to Pedestrians” signs on Plantation Drive in Pecan Grove, Precinct 3. 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
If you are a fan of Stephen King and can’t wait until his next book comes out, AND you’ve read all eight of his books in the Dark Tower series, then this movie is for you. Otherwise go see “Kidnap” starring Halle Berry. I’ve seen “Detroit;” it’s an excellent movie about race in the 60’s so you might consider it. “The Dark Tower” is typical of the fertile imagination of Crazy King. It’s billed as an eternal fight between Roland Deschain, The Gunslinger played by Idris Elba, and Walter O’Dim portrayed by our very own Matthew McConaughey. And that’s how I got tricked into seeing this film. Elba has done some outstanding work lately for the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Heimdall and, of course, I’ve bought into the whole Matthew McConaughey shtick – Alright, Alright, Alright. King and Director Nikolaj Acrecl, from Copenhagen Denmark, made sure that the audience was on a journey of Good versus Evil. And guess
who was evil? Hint: McConaughey was dressed in all black with jet black hair that stood on end and it seemed very hot at his house. And Elba mentored a young boy and carried two Remington 1858 Revolvers and could shoot faster than John Wayne. Oh yeah, The Last Gunslinger also wore a really cool duster and authentic cowboy boots. It seems that The Dark Tower is considered the center of Crazy King’s universe which gets its power from six beams and are, in effect, twelve spokes; blah, blah, blah. I’ve read a few books by Stephen King, but none of The Dark Tower series that was first published in 1982. Rumor mill is that this movie has taken ten years to make it to the big screen. That rumor came to me via one of my audience members who was a twenty-something woman wearing a Billy Joel Touring shirt and desperately wanted to talk about the movie as we were walking out of Theatre #5. I’m a friendly guy so I responded by ask-
ing “… what did you think of the movie?” And this sweet young Kingite gushed “oh, I loved it; didn’t you?” “Yes ma’am,” he said with Boy Scout enthusiasm. Back to the movie: It’s important to understand that Tom Taylor (the big winner), age about 12, plays Jake Chambers, the boy who has special powers and “the shine.” Jake and The Gunslinger travel together and are looking for a portal. Who among us is not looking for a portal? Anyway, Jake lives in a Manhattan apartment with his mother and unloving stepfather, but he escapes attempts to place him a looney bin and ends up in another dimension helping The Last Gunslinger fight his nemesis. Okay by me. Stephen King is one of the most successful writers of our time and has sold approximately 350 million copies of his books which have been made into many movies. Rock ‘n Roll.
Childrens Lighthouse Learning Centers℠, the nation’s leading provider of high-quality early childhood education and child care, announced today that the Sienna center has new ownership with entrepreneurs Hubert Vaz-Nayak and Madhavi and Pradeep Gokhale. Previous owners Hemal and Amita Solanki opened Children’s Lighthouse of Sienna in 2014. After nearly three years as the owners of the business, they are transitioning ownership to VazNayak and the Gokhales. Vaz-Nayak also owns and operates two other Children’s Lighthouse centers in The Woodlands and Spring. Vaz-Nayak is passionate about continuing to bring
high-quality child care to Missouri City. “Children’s Lighthouse has a strong reputation in the area, and I’m excited to build upon that legacy with continuous improvements to the center,” said Vaz-Nayak. “Parents and children have a lot to look forward to at the Sienna center, including upgraded classrooms, new systems for parent communication and a continually improving curriculum for students.” As long-time residents of Sienna Plantation, the Gokhale’s bring the local connection to the team. The strong roots they have established locally will provide them the understanding and knowledge of the community to continue to further ingrain Children’s Lighthouse into the hearts of local residents. Local Houston families have clearly taken to the warm and engaging environment Children’s Lighthouse offers. There are an additional 12 locations in the Greater Houston Area, with 3 scheduled to open in 2017. An additional 10 locations are expected to open nationwide within the next 24
months. “Parents in Missouri City turn to Children’s Lighthouse because we provide an educational childcare option that meets and exceeds the preferences of today’s families,” added Vaz-Nayak. The mission of Children’s Lighthouse is to promote positive development of young children in all areas of growth including social, emotional, intellectual, physical and creative development. The centers use and follow its proprietary and award winning and respected curriculum, Lighthouse C.A.R.E.S.℠, which is built on a foundation of academic excellence and character values training. To learn more, please visit https://childrenslighthouse. com/Sienna, email Sienna@ ChildrensLighthouse.com or call (281) 778-2133 Established in Ft. Worth, Texas in 1995, Childrens Lighthouse Learning Centers℠ are among the leaders in providing value-based educational childcare. Currently, Children’s Lighthouse has 40 centers in operation and 20 additional franchise locations in the development pipeline.
Grade 75. Larry H. larryhmoviereviews.com
Local entrepreneurs invest in Early Learning School
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Grand Mission Estates, Section 7, Precinct 3. 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.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Silver Ranch, Section 15, Precinct 3.
Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
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.
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017 • Page 7
NEWS Golf “Foreâ€? Student Success . . . Back to School Scramble beneďŹ ting FBEF
Golf fore Education at the 18th Annual Back to School Scramble Golf Tournament. Front row L-R: Robin Gill, Peggy Jackson, Sam Golden, Schlumberger’s Marianne Rezigh, Co-Chair Claude Leatherwood, Sue Chiang, Lynn Halford, Syndee Howgate and Crystal Hernandez. Back row L-R: Lynda Nguyen, Abolade Durojaiye, Kevin Sabouni, Jeremy Alberty, John Wantuch, Bob Cruse, Wen Wing and FBEF Events Coordinator Carol Evans. Not pictured: CoChair Christ Barton. For More Information contact the Fort Bend Education Foundation at 281-634-1111 or visit www.fortbendisd.com/foundation. Photo courtesy of Renu Narang. Plan now to golf fore education in the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s 18th annual Back to School Scramble golf tournament scheduled for Monday, September 11, 2017 at Sweetwater Country Club. Schlumberger is presenting the Back to School Scramble, chaired by Chris Barton and Claude Leatherwood. Breakfast is provided by Chick-ďŹ lA. Your entry fee includes breakfast, golf and cart, beverages, lunch reception and special gifts.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, along with Foursome Teams $1,000 and individual entries $275. The Education Foundation touches every school in Fort Bend ISD. Since its inception, the Education Foundation has awarded over $4 million through its Grants to Teachers and Schools program. These grants enable teachers to provide innovative classroom projects for which tax dollars are not available and they help new teachers with zero years teaching ex-
perience to outďŹ t their new classrooms. Your participation in the Back to School Scramble helps make our mission a reality—to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all Fort Bend ISD students. For information about the Back to School Scramble and sponsorship opportunities, call (281) 634-1111 or email carol.evans@fortbendisd. com. For more information visit www.fortbendisd.com/foundation.
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Sugar Plum Market With 6 years of a sell out
crowd, the Sugar Plum Market Preview Night Party has become the most popular way to kick o the holiday season in Fort Bend County! Grab your girlfriends and come enjoy this ultimate Girls’ Night Out with an exclusive evening of shopping at more than 100 gorgeous merchant booths, sip on delicious drinks, enjoy tasty cuisine provided by 26 Daisies, and much more! Presented by the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann, the 2017 Preview Night will be held Thursday, November 2nd from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. “This is the 7th year for our Preview Night Party, and we are excited for our guests to experience this exclusive sneak peak of Sugar Plum Market,â€? said Monica Henderson, Sugar Sugar Plum Market Committee members ready for a fabulous Plum Market Co-Chair. Tickets Preview Night— Heather Brown, left, Michaela Brady, Kimberly are $75 and include Thursday Camp, and Cara Millas. evening exclusive shopping beSaturday, November 4th from 9 Night tickets. In addition to the fore doors open to the general a.m. to 5 p.m. General Admis- Sugar Plum Market’s title sponpublic, a complimentary drink sion tickets may be purchased sor, Memorial Hermann, top ticket, light hors d’oeuvres and at www.sugarplummarket.com, sponsors to date include City Market entry Friday and Saturat select local Randalls stores of Staord, Pamela Printing, day. beginning October 1st, and Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes, A limited number of Preview also at the door during Market absolutely! focus media, 26 Night tickets ($75) and General hours. The 17th Annual holi- Daisies Catering and Events, Admission tickets ($12) will be day shopping extravaganza will Kendra Scott, Braman Brands, available online at www.sugtake place at the Staord Cen- HEB, and Randalls. arplummarket.com beginning For more information on tre Performing Arts Theatre and September 1st. Preview Night Convention Center. As in pre- sponsorship opportunities or partygoers are encouraged to vious years, proceeds from the tickets, please visit www.sugpurchase tickets early, as the 2017 Market will beneďŹ t vari- arplummarket.com or email the 2016 Preview Night event sold ous Fort Bend County charities. Sugar Plum Market Co-Chairs out. information@sugarplumSponsorship and underwrit- at The Sugar Plum Market will ing opportunities range from market.com. also be open for General AdFollow Sugar Plum Market $250 to $10,000 with many mission on Friday, November beneďŹ ts, including Preview on Facebook and Instagram. 3rd from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and
Legion names the top Division Commander
The American Legion’s 3rd Division Commander, Jerome Iltis, was the recipient of the “Top Division Commanderâ€? award during The American Legion state convention held in Killeen July 12 – 16. The 3rd Division is a 58 -county region of South Texas where approximately 20,000 Legionnaires are members of 148 Posts. The overarching purpose of The American Legion is “For God and Countryâ€?. Established by Congress almost a century ago in 1919, it was founded on four pillars: Veterans Aairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. Each of these pillars encompasses a variety of programs that beneďŹ t the nation’s veterans, military service members, their families, America’s youth, and citizens in local communities. These programs make a dierence in the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans each year. “This award represents the
The American Legion State Commander Walter Ivie (right) presents a plaque to Jerome Iltis for earning the “Top Division Commanderâ€? award. good work of the Legion- because I genuinely believe naires across the entire 3rd Di- our country needs The Amerivision who dedicate their time can Legion today more than and eort to fulďŹ ll the purpose ever.â€? Commander Iltis is a memof our noble organization,â€? Iltis acknowledged. “I greatly ber of Weiss-Wurzbach Post appreciate them for all they do 460 in Castroville.
Tog e ther we are H o u sto n ’s Com m un ity Co llege
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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 9, 2017
E S U O H FARM
. FRIDAYS IN AUGUST 5-8PM Come down to the Farmhouse for local eats, traveling treats and family fun during Food Truck Fridays 3400 HARVEST CORNER DR . RICHMOND 77406
harvestgreentexas com