Fort Bend Independent

VOL 3 No. 34

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com ww .fbindependent.com

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2010

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

Shadow boxing over security

By SESHADRI KUMAR Two separate issues involving security provided by the Fort Bend County Sheriff and the constables are currently on the front burner.

One pertains to the security provided by the office of Precinct 4 Constable Troy Nehls and the other is about the security to be provided by Sheriff Milton Wright at the new justice center under construction.

Fort Bend Toll Road Authority has contracted the services of Pct. 4 Constable to provide security and enforce the traffic laws on both Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road and Westpark Toll Road.

Initially, the sheriff’s office provided security to the Fort Bend Toll Road.

Two years ago, the toll road authority called for proposals from the sheriff and all the four constables and gave the contract to Pct. 4 constable.

The toll road authority spends about $180,000 a year toward the contract, which includes hiring of three deputies and providing them vehicles.

Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers recently learned of a legal opinion that commissioners court can appoint a deputy to a constable only for the job originating in the juris-

diction or the precinct of that constable.

Neither of the toll roads is in Pct. 4. The Westpark Toll Road is entirely in Pct. 3 and the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road is in Pct. 2. A small portion of this toll road falls in Pct. 1.

Consequently, the legality of Pct. 4 constable providing security for the toll roads has been questioned.

According to the county attorney’s office, the commissioners court’s appointment of the deputies “is reasonable under the facts presented.”

Some other attorneys believe that it is a grey area.

The toll road authority last week heard from Sheriff Milton Wright and Constable Nehls as well as Meyers.

The toll road authority will seek the opinion of its own legal counsel and is expected to call for proposals from the sheriff and the constables subsequently.

Wright says his office will hire the same deputies now employed by Nehls, if the contract is given to the sheriff’s office.

Wright says his office is well equipped now to provide the services 24/7.

Wright said the constable’s office is providing a good

service and he is not actively seeking that contract.

But, in the light of the legal question raised by Meyers, he made his position clear to the toll road authority, Wright said.

Nehls said his office has provided excellent service to the toll road authority and they are very satisfied. He does not believe there is any legal problem over his providing service to the toll road authority.

Meyers said he wanted to ensure that the county does not become liable by not following the law on the appointment of deputies.

He has no preference either for the sheriff or for the constables, but is concerned that whoever is chosen should have the proper jurisdiction. He denied that there was any ulterior motive or that he favored the sheriff’s office over the constable’s office.

Whoever gets the job, the cost remains the same.

If the constables in whose jurisdiction the toll roads fall are to be hired, the toll road authority may have to enter into multiple contracts. It remains to be seen if that is feasible.

See SECURITY, Page 2

Swing for the Cure names MOST as platinum sponsor

Top row Left to Right: Kaelyn Stolhand, Logistics Co-Chair; Melissa Roca, Finance Chair; Kenneth Renney, M.D.; Beth Butler, Director of Community Relations, FBJSL; Vincent Phan, M.D.; Timothy Sitter, M.D.; Sean Sevy, Logistics Co-Chair; Lisa Nobles, Logistics Co-Chair; Chris Siebenaler, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital CEO. Bottom row Left to Right: Lindley Doyle, Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas administrator; Ray Valdez, M.D.; Jeffrey Wood, M.D.; Pat Hogue, Auction Chair and Leena Taneja, Sponsorship Chair.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the Fort Bend Junior Service League are “going for the green” with a new golf tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society.

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) has signed on as the platinum sponsor for the upcoming Swing for the Cure tournament, joining EmergiGroup Physician Associations as presenting sponsor.

Swing for the Cure is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 18, at the Houstonian Golf & Coun-

try Club in Richmond.

All monies raised will stay in the community to help Fort Bend residents who need assistance in their battle against breast cancer.

“We’re thrilled to be able to lend our name and our support to this new event,” said Jeffrey Wood, M.D., spine surgeon with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas.

“Swing for the Cure is a unique opportunity to help our patients in a different way that’s not related to orthopedics

10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 10701 Corporate Dr., #282, Stafford, Texas 77477. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

and also a way for our doctors to give back to the community.

We have all been touched by someone who is a survivor and this is a special way to honor those survivors, those in the battle against breast cancer and those who fought the fight yet succumbed to their illness.”

MOST physicians have a long history of involvement in the Fort Bend community, especially with regard to sports medicine activities.

Organizers send a heartfelt thanks to EmergiGroup Physician Associates and Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, along with all of the tournament’s sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

To participate or for more information, contact Leena Taneja 281-274-8097 or SwingForTheCure@tmhs.org.

For assistance or more information regarding the funds available, call the American Cancer Society toll free, 1-877227-1618.

Fort Bend County’s Republican elected officials and candidates seeking office in the November election gathered for a campaign kick-off and town meeting at the Pecan Grove Country Club last week. U.S. Rep. Pete Olson addressed the meeting, attended by about 300 Republicans. Fort Bend GOP Chairman Rick Miller introduced the local candidates and Olson enumerated the reasons for the GOP to “take back the Congress and the Country.” State Rep. Charlie Howard said “I have never been so encouraged with We the People taking charge of the political climate and in stepping out so early. This election cycle is electrifying. In less than 10 days, I have attended four events organized by citizens of Fort Bend. The number of people attending far exceeded any events of previous years, 60 to more than 200 at each of the events.” — Photo by MARY FAVRE .

Al Green presents ‘commuter rail’ to Fort Bend U.S. Rep. Al Green (TX-09) presented the US 90A Commuter Rail project, one of his main priorities in Congress, to Fort Bend County’s entrepreneurs at a meeting on Aug. 16.

Addressing a standing room only audience, which included members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, as well as local elected officials and area residents, Green said the US 90A Commuter Rail line “is a good way to bring tax dollars back to our community.”

He stressed that the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County deems this project, also known as US 90A Corridor, as one of the main endeavors to expand its light rail system with the goal of connecting Downtown Houston to its surrounding residential areas. This project has the potential to be a decisive step toward the expansion and continued development of a first class public transportation system for the Houston metropolitan area, he said.

The US 90A Corridor aims to establish a one seat ride between the Texas Medical Center, Missouri City and Stafford by means of a light rail line approximately 8.2 miles long. According to METRO’s estimates, there would be a 12,000 person ridership in the opening year, which could increase to 23,000 by 2030. Furthermore, with this rail expansion, it is estimated the new line could create 3,000 jobs.

Green thanked the mayors of

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Chairman Bridget Yeung, left, U.S. Rep. Al Green and former Richmond City Councilman Jim Gonzalez at the chamber.

Missouri City, Allen Owen, and Stafford, Leonard Scarcella, for the determined support they have shown to the rail line plan since it won approval by the voters in the 2003 METRO Solutions referendum.

“Their drive and enthusiasm to turn this project into a reality has laid the foundation upon which we have formed a strongly unified coalition. That is one of the principal reasons we are successfully moving forward in Congress.”

The Congressman explained he has led the effort to allocate funds for the US 90A Corridor in the 111th Congress, citing that, on July 29, the House

of Representatives passed the Transportation-Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill with an allocation of $1 million for the project.

“There are demographic studies which forecast that the population of the Houston area will have increased by 3.5 million people in 2035. I think this is a clear signal that developing our public transportation system is a goal we should focus on. This rail line has enormous potential to become one of the most notable infrastructural assets that will propel Fort Bend County to the vanguard of 21st century urban development in the Houston area,” Green said.

New Homes Summer Special !!

Hurry !! … Call Chinese Cowboy - Paul

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 25, 2010

Community Happenings American Cancer Society’s Couture for the Cause

Members of the Lambda Sigma Chapter of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International held their first meeting of the school year at Kathy Nelson’s beautiful home on Saturday, Aug. 21. The initiation ceremony included special music presented by a choral ensemble of members, lighting of candles by the five initiates and the presentation of red roses, the flower that symbolizes friendship of this honor society for women educators. Front row L-R: Salethia Morris, new member, Linda Russell, first vice-president, Cathie Ritchie, chapter president and Stephanie Bailey, new member. Standing L-R: new members, Sue Sowell, Harriet Mantini and Julie Gehring. For more information, access the Lambda Sigma website, at http://lambdasigma.weebly.com/

The American Cancer Society’s Couture for the Cause on Sept. 25 has it all: high seas, high fashion, and haute cuisine from the area’s finest restaurants.

The event, themed Escape to Treasure Island and presented

by Sterling McCall Lexus, features a couture style show with fashions provided by Tootises.

Exotic models will walk the gang plank-style runway suspended over a pool at Sienna Plantation’s newest resortstyle water park - The Resort at Sienna Springs.

Noted fashion show coordinator Lenny Matuszewski will choreograph the crew of local celebrity and professional models along with cancer survivors in the lush, tropical setting.

Some of the event’s survivor models include CEO of Johnson Development Larry Johnson and his wife, Suzie; local Realtors Barbara Montgomery and Brenda Pullen; former Har-

ris County District Attorney Dennis Cain; top-selling romance novelist Jan Freed; Houston attorney Joe B. Allen; Vice President of Darling Homes Bill Dalton, Houston attorney Danny Kamin, and founder of Reconstruction of a Survivor, a non-profit breast cancer organization, Dr. Jeannie Bennett.

In addition to high fashion and haute cuisine, high seas action is also in store for mateys attending Escape to Treasure Island. With live music, fireworks, ale and perhaps a few pirate skirmishes, the evening promises a night of frivolity and fun.

While pirate antics are among the treasure trove of fun for Escape to Treasure Island, the committee’s goal, led

by Honorary Chairmen Marvin and Debbie Marcell and Michael and Molly Cooper, is clear. “Escape to Treasure Island will be both a meaningful

PROUDLY SERVING FORT BEND SINCE 1981

Security

Russell C. Jones Thelma Holoway Jones Lewis W. “Chip� Smith IV � Real Estate � Landlord/Tenant � � Banking � Creditors' Rights � Collections � � Business and Corporate Law � Immigration � � Business Litigation � Mergers and Acquisitions � � Estate Planning � Probate � � Property Owners' Associations �

In the Sugar Land Industrial Park 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land, Tx. 77478 281-242-8100 rjones@jonesattorneys.com www.jonesattorneys.com AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

Fort Bend Family Promise was the recipient of an $8000 grant from the ABB Foundation in 2010.

Making the presentation from the right is Jim Uschkrat of ABB to Lyn Storm, Executive Director and Joe Sullivan, Board President, Fort Bend Family Promise. Funds will support the Family Promise program assistance with parents and children in crisis who find themselves temporarily homeless. For more information about Fort Bend Family Promise, please contact Lyn Storm at 281-403-3923.

From Page 1 It remains to be seen if that is feasible.

Meanwhile, a proposal from the sheriff to provide six private security personnel to man three metal detectors in the new justice center has drawn opposition from the judges.

Facing a tight budget, the sheriff felt that hiring the private security, instead of hiring six deputies who will be armed, would save the county about $140,000 a year.

and fun event,� said Marvin Marcell. “It’s the perfect way to support an organization that does so much for those battling cancer.� Lending her support to the American Cancer Society and serving as emcee for the event is the co-anchor of ABC 13’s award- winning morning newscast Sharron Melton.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Sheree Prather with the ACS at sheree.prather@cancer.org or visit www.houstoncoutureforthecause.org.

Wright said his first preference is to hire armed deputies.

But, he is ready to work with the unarmed security personnel, if the commissioners choose to do so.

Even though the two people manning the metal detectors may not be armed, there will be a couple of deputies with arms providing security in the area, Wright said.

The judges, however, felt, private unarmed security personnel, would not be adequate at the justice center.

The judges are expected to make their case to the commissioners court his week.

/'6*1&+56 57)#4 .#0&

0'741.1); #551%+#6'5 2GTUQPCN CVVGPVKQP JKIJ VGEJ ECTG &T ,GHHTG[ ,CEMUQP CPF &T / (CKUCN -JCP CTG RNGCUGF VQ CPPQWPEG VJG QRGPKPI QH /GVJQFKUV 5WICT .CPF 0GWTQNQI[ #UUQEKCVGU 6JG[ JCXG VGCOGF WR VQ QHHGT FKCIPQUKU CPF VTGCVOGPV QH VJG OQUV EQOOQP ĹŒ CPF OQUV EQORNGZ ĹŒ PGWTQNQIKECN FKUQTFGTU (TQO UNGGR CRPGC OKITCKPGU GRKNGRU[ CPF FGOGPVKC VQ EQORNGZ URKPG CPF RGTKRJGTCN PGWTQNQIKECN FKUQTFGTU VJG RJ[UKEKCPU CV /GVJQFKUV 5WICT .CPF 0GWTQNQI[ #UUQEKCVGU ECP RTQXKFG CPUYGTU CPF QRVKQPU WUKPI VJG NCVGUV VGEJPQNQI[ CPF VJGTCRGWVKE VGEJPKSWGU DCEMGF D[ VJG TGUQWTEGU CPF UVCHH QH /GVJQFKUV

5WICT .CPF *QURKVCN

4GICKP [QWT SWCNKV[ QH NKHG %CNN /GVJQFKUV 5WICT

.CPF 0GWTQNQI[ #UUQEKCVGU VQFC[ ƒ $QCTF EGTVKĹżGF PGWTQNQIKUVU YKVJ C URGEKCN

GORJCUKU QP PGWTQRJ[UKQNQI[ CPF UNGGR OGFKEKPG

ƒ .QECVGF QP VJG /GVJQFKUV 5WICT .CPF *QURKVCN

ECORWU KP /GFKECN 1HĹżEG $WKNFKPI 6YQ 5WKVG

ƒ %CNN VQ UEJGFWNG CP CRRQKPVOGPV

Medical OfďŹ ce Building Two 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-494-6387 Ĺ– MethodistSugarLand.com

AUGUST 25, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

Community news The Wharton County Junior College Foundation recently held its annual fundraiser at the Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond. The foundation hosted a record crowd of about 640 guests.

WCJC Foundation Board of Director President David Showalter and his wife Karen visited with the event’s performer, country singing legend Crystal Gayle for a personalized autograph.

Proceeds from the event are still to be determined and will benefit the foundation’s endowment which funds student scholarships, academic programs, and faculty development. The event was underwritten for the third consecutive year by The Rosenberg-Richmond Auto Mile, represented by Finnegan Auto Group, Fort Bend Toyota, Legacy Ford Lincoln Mercury, and Gillman Honda Nissan. —Photo by John Dettling

Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!

Crystal Gayle sings for WCJC

Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com RE DU CE D

FIRST COLONY

Last May 54.57 percent of general election voters said they want a city-wide trash program that provides for the collection and disposal of solid waste and an option for curbside recycling.

Consequently, residents may choose between rear load or automated cart service and whether or not to pay extra for curbside recycling. Assistant City Manager Bill Atkinson told council. “It depends on who wants what” – whether to pay a separate fee or not.

Homeowner associations and MUDS that bill for the services will decide what type of service residents will get on a case by case basis.

Atkinson also said that in addition to the above residential services, Missouri City will get Republic dumpster service at its buildings and the recycling of glass will be added to the city recycling

center. The company is also required to notify customers 45 days before it makes any route changes.

The assistant city manager noted that terms of the proposed contract require Republic to pick up city event collections such as Christmas trees and regularly report to the city regarding waste, recyclables, complaints, complaint resolution and recycle profit and loss.

When the bulk service is packaged along with the automated service it will be provided on the first Wednesday of each month and each household will be limited to four bulk items, which include large appliances.

There are four different proposals residents can choose from. The first proposal includes two 32-gallon rear load garbage containers emptied twice a week plus eight

and exciting Fort Bend’s Democratic base.”

The Fort Bend County Democratic Party has experienced rapid growth Hellyar over the past several months, and in May, voters ushered in new party leadership in electing Brown.

Within less than two months, the party was able to more than double the number of precinct chairs, held its first major fund-raiser in years and opened the party’s first free-standing headquarters in a decade.

“I think Nick’s hiring further demonstrates how committed we are to turning out Democrats in upcoming elections,” Brown said of Hellyar.

“His background is a per-

fect mix of campaign experience along with a familiarity with Fort Bend County. Both of these attributes are essential to our overall success.”

Hellyar started his political career as campaign manager for Houston City Councilman James Rodriguez, and followed that success as campaign manager for State Rep. Carol Alvarado. He worked at Houston City Hall as an aide to Rodriguez, and as Alvarado’s District Director.

Hellyar also worked on campaigns for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Chris Bell, Houston Mayor Annise Parker, Houston Council Member Wanda Adams, Harris County Board of Education Trustee Jim Henley and the Houston GLBT Political Caucus.

“I attended Elkins High School, and I’ve participated in numerous campaigns and elections in Fort Bend,” Hellyar said.

NAMI meeting set for Sept. 2 The National Alliance on Mental Illness Fort Bend County will be meeting on Thursday, Sept. 2, at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Missouri City, Fellowship Hall, located at 3900 Lexington Boulevard, and FM 1092. Program speaker will be Jack Callaghan with Advocacy, Inc.

ABR, GRI , E-Pro, 21 years Professional Realtor; Owner of Peoples Properties, a Real Estate & Property Management Co.; American Business Women’s Association.

SUGAR LAND REDUCED

FIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND

REDUCED

Built in 2006. Popular Perry 1 story home. 4 bedrooms and both formals or study. 16’ tile and hardwood floors. Garage/game room. Covered CUSTOM SHOW CASE HOME! Over 4300sqft 5 bedover size patio. Playground & shed stays. Private rooms 4 baths & 1/2 bath. Study and gameroom. Private Levee lot. Priced to go at $195,000. culdesac lot. Thousands in upgrades! Designer Decor thru out the home. Gourmet island kitchen & more! Rare find! Hurry priced to go fast under $500K.

NEW LISTING

yard waste bags for $14.40; recycling once a week at $2.85, and no add on cost for bulk pick up twice a week and limited to one bulk item per pickup. The monthly total for households this year for these services will be $17.30 before fees and taxes. The total for those same services by 2014 will be $21.50 with no fees and taxes included.

The second option includes automatic side loading of garbage – one 96-gallon container – twice a week, recycling and bulk pick up once a month at a monthly cost of $16.80.

Rear load garbage plus eight yard waste bags twice a week, no recycling and three cubic yards of bulk picked up twice a week will cost a resident $14.40 a month. Automated side loading, no recycling and bulk pick up once a month will cost $13.90 monthly before fees and taxes.

Fort Bend County Democrats high campaign director The Fort Bend County Democratic Party has named political campaign veteran Nick Hellyar as Executive Director of the party’s Coordinated Campaign, party Chair Steve Brown announced.

Hellyar, who has managed and worked on campaigns for a variety of Fort Bend and Houston-area Democratic candidates, will be responsible for all aspects of the Blue Fort Bend in 2010 local candidate campaign.

“As Executive Director, I’ll be responsible for turning out the Democratic vote in the upcoming November elections,” Hellyar said.

“That means working to provide essential support, resources and training to promote our candidates and agenda. Over the next several weeks, we’ll be block-walking, phone-banking, registering voters and hosting a series of rallies aimed at informing

Suzette Peoples

SUGAR CREEK Great 1 story on huge corner lot. 3 bedPOOL/SPA & WATERFALL! 2 story 4 bedrooms! rooms & study. Seller has updated carpet, tile paint Master down. All tile/real wood thru-out, no in and out and roof replaced. Shows great and price carpet. All located on cul de sac street. Clements already reduced to go fast in the low $200’s. high school! Priced to go fast! Reduced $260’s.

Missouri City moves toward citywide garbage collection

By BARBARA FULENWIDER After years of trying to get everyone to use the same utility service provider in order to cut costs for Missouri City residents, it’s finally starting to happen incrementally regarding trash pickup.

On Nov. 1 the city’s fiveyear contract with Republic Services starts thanks to city council members having approved the details of the proposed contract at their Aug. 16 meeting and authorizing the city manager to move forward on negotiating the agreement with Republic.

People who pay more for garbage collection services than they would using Republic will become part of the new contract while subdivisions with lower priced contracts may stay with their existing plan until their price is higher than the city’s contract rate.

FIRST COLONY/ SUGAR LAND! Almost 2400sqft. 4 bedrooms 2.5 bath. Study and sitting/gameroom up. Owner spent over $62K on upgrades/improvements. Gourmet kitchen, tile/pergo thru-out no carpet. Priced in $200’s.

The mission of Advocacy, Inc. is to advocate for, protect, and advance the legal, human, and service rights of people with disabilities.

Callahan vigorously supports the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) and is the state PAIMI service coordinator for Advocacy Inc. He also

“However, I’m most proud of my current role in overseeing the local campaign - just as the Democratic Party is on the verge of establishing a permanent majority in Fort Bend County.”

FIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND! Adorable 1-story home on cul de sac street. No neighbors behind you!

3 bedrooms & study or formal living. Open floor plan.

Detached garage! Priced below market at $210,000.

NEW LISTING Riverstone. Pool, Spa, Waterfall. Built 2003. Trendmaker beauty. Over 4,700 sqft. 5 BR 4.5 baths. 3 car, 2 masters. Rare find on huge oversized cul de sac lot. No neighbors next to you. Upgrades galore. Zoned to Clements. Priced in the $500’s.

NEW LISTING/QUAIL VALLEY Updated 1 story 4 bedrooms 2.5 bath with new roof and carpet July 2010. Interior all repainted and new fixtures too. Great location on landscaped reserve. Priced to go $125,000!!

Mortgage Banker can do loans in less than 30 days!

Call Suzette or email: Speoplesrealtor@aol.com

How about a worry-free insurance plan especially for people age 45 and over?* State Auto’s new Prime of LifeSM Plan provides expanded insurance coverages and substantial premium discounts on auto and homeowners insurance for qualifying customers age 45 and over*! As part of the Prime of Life Plan, you’ll enjoy enhanced coverages for when you travel, anywhere in the U.S.A. or Canada. Call your State Auto agent today for more information.

Texans Insurance &enhancements/discounts Financial Group, *Qualifying age and coverage vary byInc state.

101 Southwestern Blvd, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478-3535 PH (281)277-7800 FAX (281)277-7801 basil@texansinsure.com Your best insurance is a good agent.

“Friends you can depend on”

FALL 2010 REGISTRATION Web and Walk-In Registration Now through September 1

&QNNGIG KU $HHQTFCDNG

Let our financial aid staff show you how.

start smart by visiting our website to learn more about

our many certificate and associate degree programs.

teaches classes at Houston Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team Training Course.

He received a BBA degree and a JD degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Callahan is a powerful speaker and very passionate about his work.

NAMI Fort Bend meetings are free and the public is invited to attend.

:GGMGPF ENCUUGU CXCKNCDNG VJKU HCNN CV VJG 6WICT /CPF ECORWU 9KUKV YELE GFW HQT FGVCKNU

WHARTON • SUGAR LAND • RICHMOND • BAY CITY EL CAMPO • PALACIOS

wcjc.edu 1-800-561-WCJC WCJC is an E.O.E. institution.

Directory Directory Directory Directory Directory Lawn& Landscape AT Renovations, Inc. 101 Southwestern Blvd. Ste.230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawn@texansfp..com (281) 787-4302

Insurance Texans Insurance & Financial Group, 101 Southwestern Blvd., Suite 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.texansinsure.com (281) 277-7800 Basil Housewright, President

Accountant Sandersen & Knox LLP , Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.SKBTexas.com (281) 242-3232

Attorney

Physician

Hrbacek & Associates,P.C.

Nik Nikam, MD

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110 Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com 281-240-2424

Sugar Land Heart Center 16659 S.W. FWY, #361 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-7567 www.sugarlandheartcenter.com

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 25, 2010

Opinion Texas Straight Talk The View from Sugar Land Let the housing market normalize Watching the warring Democrats

By RUSSELL C. JONES Some of the best fun in politics this summer is shaping up to be the spat among Democrats on the question of whether the Ground Zero Mosque should be built.

Before anyone complains that the name used above is antiMuslim, recall that it was first used by Feisal Abdul Rauf, its imam and chief promoter. The planned location for the mosque was a Burlington Coat Factory until it was struck by a landing gear from a plane that hit one of the Twin Towers. Body parts were found nearby. The name seems appropriate.

Democrats are going crazy over the issue, calling opponents of the mosque “racist,” “antIslamic” and worse. Many are stunned at Obama’s attempt to first jump into the firestorm and then search for a way out.

At a White House dinner celebrating Ramadan, Obama supported “the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in Lower Manhattan.” Most observers understood his remarks to be a strong stand in favor of the building. Liberals rejoiced.

The next day, the president hedged his position, saying that he would “not comment on the wisdom of making the decision to put a mosque there.” Liberals were heartbroken.

Given Obama’s confusing stand, it is unclear whether Senate Leader Reid is bucking the president. An aide announced that Reid “thinks that the mosque should be built someplace else.”

His comment seemed to be in response to the demand of his reelection opponent that he “stand up and say no to the mosque.”

In a most uncharacteristic move, former DNC chairman Howard Dean bucked his “progressive” supporters and described the mosque as “a real

Jones affront to people who lost their lives.” He described Islam as being “in the 12th century.”

Criticizing Democrats who criticized his remarks, Dean said they were “guilty of the same type of absolutism that they’ve accused Republicans of harboring.”

Dean admitted that not all opponents of the mosque “are right-wing bigots.” On the other hand, he refused to concede that he agreed with Palin and Gingrich. They, he said, are “racebaiting anti-Islamists,” who “are exploiting this for whatever political gain they can get.” Dean, of course, is taking the high road, and only wants a “thoughtful, reasonable dialogue.”

Democrat members of the New York delegation in the House are distancing themselves from the official liberal line as the November elections approach. A Florida candidate for Senate is doing the same in an upcoming Democrat primary.

Just as difficult for Democrats to accept are the high profile Muslims who oppose the mosque. Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, president and founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, says the mosque “casts a shadow over hallowed ground.”

Rima Fakih, the first Muslim Miss USA, is on record in oppo-

sition. Akbar Ahmed, professor of Islamic studies at American University and former Pakistani ambassador to Britain, calls the plan for the mosque “like rubbing salt in open wounds.” Abdul Cader Asmal, past president of the Islamic Council of New England, has called on Rauf to “dramatically scale back the project.”

Speaker Pelosi is so incensed by the infighting that she called for an investigation “into how this opposition to the mosque is being funded.” Is she saying that some federal agency should look into the 9/11 families, Reid, Dean, the New York Democrats, Miss USA and maybe even Obama? She is particularly offended because “there is a concerted effort to make this a political issue.” That is Pelosispeak for “this is a problem for Democrats.”

The usual suspects in the media are doing their best to belittle Republicans. The Associated Press issued “guidelines” for its writers cautioning that the mosque is “being demonized by political candidates--mostly Republicans,” apparently oblivious to incumbent Democrats afraid of the issue. CBS News editorialized that opponents are “shrill and stupid” and complained that there are “few grown-ups left in the GOP.” A CNN/Opinion Research poll earlier this month showed 68% of Americans opposed plans to build the mosque. A Siena Research Institute poll released last week reported that 61% of New Yorkers are opposed.

It’s great to see the Dems at war with themselves and the American public.

Jones is a member of the Sugar Land City Council, having been first elected in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.

Musings: Taking an overview

By JANICE SCANLAN Meeting for lunch can be a dangerous thing when certain topics come up that get you curious.

My friend who spent years on Sugar Land Planning and Zoning asked me, “what happened to Missouri City and Sugar Land merging their trail systems?”

I knew that Sugar Land had designed and constructed one of their trails at Lost Creek Park to be accessible from Dulles and Oyster Creek and connect into the Missouri City Oyster Creek Trail. The portion of the MC trail between Mosley Park on FM 1092 and the Fort Bend YMCA on Lexington was completed with a nifty safety trail under busy FM1092.

However, the remainder of the Oyster Creek Trail from Lexington to Dulles that would complete the connection had stopped.

The Oyster Creek Trail had been one of the promises of the 2003 Missouri City Bond package approved by voters.

So I asked a friend who was on a Citizen’s Committee that actually evaluated 30 to 40 big and small parks projects and prioritized them for the bond package.

This was not an evening wish list exercise, but an actual group of citizens that came to some hard decisions about which projects moved Missouri City forward in its recreational and community appearance efforts. For example, Phase 1 of Buffalo Run Park came out of these bonds.

Buffalo Run Park is unquestionably a wise $4M investment bringing us a

Scanlan beautiful park that heightened Trammell Crow’s commitment to build Lakeview Commercial office park across the street. It is bringing high wage jobs to Missouri City.

In 2007 these designated projects were put on hold so that a threat to Missouri City by a real estate speculator could be tackled to acquire what became called the Quail Valley Properties. $9.5M or 61% of the 15.5M 2003 Bond Package was “borrowed” into this effort.

Now it seems these funds have shifted permanently to build a Community Center and Recreation Center. I do not question whether these are good projects. I question if taxpayers from a cross section of interests have re-prioritized projects now in terms of a whole city effort?

Are there some less costly

opportunities we have ignored that might have a big impact and demonstrate that other interests in the city are being considered?

For example, the Oyster Creek Trail was considered a win for both cities because it provided pedestrian access for Missouri City residents into Lost Creek and Oyster Creek Parks, as well as Sugar Land access to the YMCA and more trails—and trail enthusiasts count miles. Parents and kids look for proximity to their neighborhoods. The Fort Bend Y saw the enhancement potential for use of its facilities by the community.

Could bringing this trail further into Quail Valley enhance Quail Valley Park, the new La Quinta being constructed, access to The Township as well as connect other parks and trails throughout Missouri City? Would a public-private commercial restaurant at Buffalo Run benefit workers at Lakeview and park goers on the week -ends and evenings?

We’ve had many exciting things happen. Is it time to revisit the big picture?

At press time, Councilman Don Smith said work on the Oyster Creek Trail from Lexington Blvd. to Dulles Ave. will commence in three weeks.

Write to janicescanlan@ earthlink.net

Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com Email: Editor@fbindependent.com

By RON PAUL Recently there have been some encouraging signs that Congress is finally willing to admit what should have been evident two years ago. Even after a $150 billion bailout, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are still bankrupt and should be abolished. Indeed Rep. Barney Frank, a longtime champion of Fannie and Freddie has made a few statements alluding to this and I have signed on to a letter asking him to clarify his remarks and hold hearings on this topic.

There seems to be a growing consensus in favor of abolishing Fannie and Freddie. This is the good news.

The bad news is that instead of simply returning to the free market, Fannie and Freddie will probably be replaced with something equally damaging, and at this point we can only guess what that will be. One possibility is that instead of these two giant Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) the government will deputize thousands of smaller banks to do the same thing – that is to securitize mortgages with taxpayer guarantees to encourage lending that otherwise would not happen. In other words, there will be a myriad of smaller Fannies and Freddies, and government involvement will reach even deeper into the financial sector.

Fannie and Freddie, and thus the taxpayer, has an alarming $5 trillion exposure to the mortgage market. To some, spreading out this risk might seem tempting, and a smart thing to do. But the fact remains that if a bank ex-

Paul pects to lose money on a loan, so will the taxpayers. Playing around with structures and definitions will still not deal with the root problem – government meddling in the housing market, playing fast and loose with our tax dollars, and central planning by the Federal Reserve.

Banks have complex risk assessment strategies in place that help them forecast if a particular loan will make them any money or not. If they expect to make money, they will approve the loan. If they have doubts, sometimes they will ask for a co-signer to improve their odds. You might do this willingly for a friend or a relative if you didn’t mind losing some money on their behalf, but current government policies essentially force taxpayers to become cosigners for risky borrowers that are complete strangers, who the banks have already determined to be bad risks. Taxpayers have no choice in the matter because politicians decided a few de-

cades ago that dangling homeownership in front of more people seemed like a good way to garner votes.

That was sold to voters as a compassionate gesture to the poor and beneficial to society as a whole. After all, how could giving more Americans an ownership stake in society be bad? The combined policies of loose credit and government backing increased the demand for housing and drove prices sky high. When the housing market heated up to the breaking point everything came crashing down. Those suddenly facing foreclosure saw the reality of government compassion.

Truly, when government offers you a gift, you should eye it with great suspicion.

Another tragedy is that many job seekers are now tethered to their locations because of upside down loan obligations. It takes a lot of effort with their bank and damage to their credit scores to figure out how to get out and move to a place where there are jobs. Will the government now be seeking ways to subsidize renters in some way because of this lack of mobility? Some think so.

My hope is that for the long term stability and health of the economy, the government will extricate itself from the market altogether and let it normalize. My fear is that in its usual misguided efforts at solving one crisis, it will create a thousand others.

(Ron Paul represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas.)

Backpacks: Health issue, not fashion statement

By THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. Teaching youngsters to shop the sales for back-toschool clothing is a great idea, but not such a good idea for the backpack.

While your sons or daughters will be looking at the backpack as a fashion statement, parents need to look at it with an entirely different set of eyes.

In January, 2010, the medical professional journal, “Spine,” reported on a recent MRI study regarding the effects school backpacks have on healthy children’s spines.

“This is the first upright MRI study to document reduced disc height and greater lumbar asymmetry for common backpack loads in children.”

The conclusion supported what has been suspected by pediatricians and orthopedic surgeons for a long time: “Backpack loads are responsible for a significant amount of back pain in children, which in part, may be due to changes in lumbar disc height or curvature.”

Dr. Christine Ho, a pediatric orthopedic specialist at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, has said, “The extra stress placed on the spine and shoulder from heavy loads is causing children to develop adult-like back problems. The most common injuries are muscle strains and, in extreme cases, slipped discs. Some injuries could lead to long term conditions if not avoided.”

It is important to select a durable, very lightweight backpack, appropriate for your child’s size and age. Be sure the two shoulder straps are wide and padded to help distribute the weight and to prevent digging into the shoulders. Narrow shoulder straps will cause pain and re-

Parr strict circulation to the arms.

A waist strap is also beneficial because it will help distribute the weight more evenly on the body. Also look for a backpack with a little extra padding against the student’s back to protect against poking, sharp objects.

If your student does not have to go up and down stairs during the school day to change classes, you might consider a rolling backpack, especially if the load is going to be too heavy for your child’s age and weight.

Next, fill the backpack with the items needed during the school day and weigh it. Then weigh your child.

The loaded backpack should not weigh more than about 15% of what your child weighs. (Child’s weight x .15 = Max. backpack weight) We used to say up to 20%, but the American Academy of Pediatricians is now recommending only 15%.

Your students are going to be adding their own special items to the backpack and not cleaning it out frequently.

Parents should therefore repeat the weight test regularly as a precaution.

Put the loaded backpack on your child and adjust both shoulder straps to where they will hold the backpack close to the body. Adjust the waist

strap as well.

Teach your student to use both shoulder straps at all times, even though he or she may think using only one strap “has a better look.” Also explain why it is important to put the heaviest items in the part of the backpack that will be next to his or her body for better weight distribution.

Train yourself to watch your child’s posture throughout the school year while wearing the backpack.

The posture should always be fully upright. If you see bending too far forward, there is too much weight in the backpack for your child’s size and muscle strength.

If you see leaning to one side, either the backpack is not loaded properly or it is not being worn correctly.

Parents should also talk to the schools about what the schools can do to allow students more access to their lockers so the backpack load can be reasonable throughout the school day.

This is a student health issue, not a convenience issue, so the schools should be willing to work with the parents in resolving this potential access problem.

And do not ignore any complaints from your child about back pain.

Pain is a warning sign that something is wrong. Seek medical evaluation as soon as possible from your pediatrician or orthopedic surgeon.

You do not want to learn later that a life-long back problem could have been prevented if it had been treated when it first happened.

Dr. Thomas Parr, an orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land, can be reached at 281-4917111.Visit www.tomparrmd. net for more information.

AUGUST 25, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 5

Juneteenth foundation awards scholarships FILM REVIEW: Mao’s Last Dancer As part of this ongoing mission, Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen and Councilman Don Smith, who is the founder and chairman of Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation, recently honored five college scholarship winners at a special ceremony held in the Wells Fargo Bank on Texas Parkway.

“Wells Fargo and the City of Missouri City are proud to once again be involved with the Juneteenth Celebration and especially with our contribution toward the scholarship program,” Owen said.

“These young people are the future leaders of our community and it is important that we all do what we can to help them with their education plans. They have earned these scholarships through a lot of hard work and dedication.”

Owen and Smith congratulated the scholars for their academic excellence and presented each with a $1,000 scholarship on Aug. 11. The honorees, selected from a total of 15 applicants, are pictured above after the check presentations.

From left to right are: Councilman Smith; Mayor Owen; Wayland Breaux, who will attend Tuskegee

University; Carlos Mavins, who will attend Texas A&M University; Cynthia Green, a two-time recipient who attends the University of North Texas, Ashlee Sherman, who will attend Prairie View A&M University; Janay Brooks, who will attend UT-Dallas; and Ron Jenkins and Mona Rasmus, with the Missouri City Juneteenth Foundation Selection Committee.

This is the fourth year of the MCJCF scholarship program and the criteria to win are academic achievement, admittance to a college or university, extracurricular involvement, community involvement and evidence of leadership.

Goals for this year’s high achievers run the gamut from computer programming and

engineering to television production.

Record numbers turned out this year to commemorate the 8th Annual Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration.

From hitting the links to touching a historic tree, they braved the heat to enjoy the annual week-long celebration of cultural diversity.

Funds from the gala awards dinner and the golf tournament at the Quail Valley Golf Course went toward the college scholarships. Also a hit this year was the new Community Health Awareness Exhibit, held on June 19 at Covenant Glen United Methodist Church. Thousands attended and received free screenings and medical advice.

Central Fort Bend Chambers announces speakers at Regional Infrastructure Conference The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance (CFBCA) and the organization’s Infrastructure Department, chaired

by Justin Ring of Edminster Hinshaw Russ & Assoc., have just released the schedule of speakers for their Sixth Annual Fort Bend Regional Infrastructure Conference.

The event, presented by S & B Infrastructure and HCSS Construction Software, will take place Tuesday, Oct. 5 at the Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Sugar Land Town Square, beginning at 7:30 a.m. and wrapping up at 6 p.m.

Three keynote speakers will anchor the event with information focused on varying aspects of infrastructure in Fort Bend and Harris counties.

Leading the day with a breakfast presentation will be County Judge Robert E. Hebert, who will discuss the effects of county growth on transportation and mobility.

State Rep. Bill Callegari, District 132, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and also a member of the House Committee on Transportation, will discuss “Key Water Issues for the

2011 Texas Legislature”.

Rounding out the day, James T. Edmonds, Chairman of the Port of Houston Authority Commission, will offer an update on the Port of Houston, with a view of things to come.

Other speakers include Senator Glenn Hegar, District 18 speaking about “Transportation in Fort Bend & Beyond”; a panel discussion of Commuter Rail featuring area Mayors Allen Owen of Missouri City, Leonard Scarcella of Stafford, and Joe Gurecky of Rosenberg; Jeff Wiley, President of the Greater Fort Bend EDC providing an update on the economic forecast for Fort Bend County; Vic Suhm, with the Transportation Advocates of Texas, Inc., who will speak on resources for transportation funding; an “Ethics in Engineering” class taught by Kerry Williams, JD, PE and Julia Calnek, JD, both of Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Martin LLP; Robert Adair and David Batts, with the Houston Land and Water Sustainability Forum, discussing “Low Impact Development Efforts in the Greater Houston Area”; and

Alfredo Armendariz, the Regional Administrator for the U.S. EPA, Region 6, who has been invited to provide information on the federal environmental laws (not confirmed at the time of this printing).

Conference attendees will receive a comprehensive conference binder, breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon break snacks, and admittance to the cocktail reception immediately following the closing keynote address.

Professional engineers who register for continuing education credits will receive two PDH units for attending the conference, plus one additional if they select the Ethics class as a break-out session option. New this year will be a special vendor booth area where the morning and afternoon breaks will be held.

Registration for individuals has already begun, and is $150 for Chamber members and $225 for non-members.

For information on sponsorships or registration, contact the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance at 281-342-5464, www.CFBCA.org or email gparker@CFBCA.org.

Sugar Land Baseball Stadium project speakers bureau available Plans for the City of Sugar Land’s new minor league baseball team and stadium are well underway and generating a great deal of community interest.

The City is close to completing engineering and quality of life impact studies to select the final site and preliminary results will be presented to City Council on Tuesday, August 24. In response to public interest, a speakers’ bureau of City staff and officials has been created to answer residents’ questions about ballpark plans, its impact on the community and to receive citizens’ feedback.

The City remains committed to selecting a final stadium site that does not negatively impact residents with respect to traffic, noise, lighting and public safety.

City Council is expected to vote on the final site selection at its Sept. 7 meeting. Starting Aug. 25, HOA’s, service organizations or other interested community groups can schedule a speaker and presentation to learn more about the City’s new baseball project includ-

ing: •Preferred stadium site near the northeast corner of State Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 90A •Site selection process which included the consideration of the stadium as an economic stimulus to adjoining future commercial development, •Potential economic impact of the stadium on the City •Preliminary results of quality of life studies on traffic, noise, lighting and safety impacts to the community •The City of Sugar Land partnership with OpeningDay Partners •First western expansion team for Independent Atlantic League Association •Proposed design-build stadium construction plans to MLB’s Triple A standards and estimated construction timeline •Plans for ballpark amenities and year-round, familyfriendly features On May 18, the Sugar Land City Council approved an agreement with Opening Day

Partners, LLC to bring professional minor league baseball to Sugar Land. ODP will own and operate Sugar Land’s baseball team. ODP will be the owner of the Atlantic League expansion team that will take to Sugar Land’s new field for its expected Opening Day in April 2012.

The $30 million stadium will be funded with a portion of sales tax revenues that may only be used for economic development purposes. No general fund tax dollars will be spent on the stadium.

In addition to the stadium serving as a community amenity, a conservative costbenefit analysis performed by Conventions, Sports & Leisure International shows the project will provide an annual benefit to the community of conservatively $7.7 million, or a return of $169 million over 30 years.

Interested groups may schedule a speaker and presentation by contacting the City’s Communication department at 281-275-2216 or by email at pubinfo@sugarlandtx.gov.

This film opened at the River Oaks Theatre in Houston on Aug. 20. I saw it at a screening at the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston on July 28.

There was an unusually large crowd at the screening and then personal appearances by many of the stars and Li Cunxin the following Saturday night. This is uniquely a Houston story.

The film is based on the life of Li Cuxin (pronounced LEE SCHWIN SING) and his best selling autobiography first published in Australia where Li is now a successful stockbroker.

But in 1981, he was a 20year old dancer with the Houston Ballet as part of a cultural exchange program. He continued to dance for the Houston Ballet until 1995.

After his planned visit to the U.S. in 1981, he decided to defect.

“A tense 21-hour standoff ensued inside the Chinese consulate on Montrose (Houston) as Chinese officials locked Li in a room and pressured him to change his mind.”

The scene at the consulate is a pivotal aspect of the movie and the realities and legalities began a tug of war that required the awakening of a Federal Judge. Literally, the

Houston immigration attorney (Kyle MacLachlan) for Li had to resort to calling Judge Woodrow Seals at home to get him to consider an immediate restraining order to save Li from being spirited away by the Chinese.

The Houston attorney, Charles C. Foster, who actually represented Li in 1981 was at the screening and was introduced before the movie began.

After the movie, I had the opportunity to talk to Mr. Foster who has been the go-to immigration lawyer in the Houston area for over 30 years.

Charles told me about the behind-the-scenes legal negotiations that took place between Judge Seals, Judge Singleton, and the US Attorney for the Southern District of Texas. He said, “Larry, the discussion actually took place on the loading dock behind the Federal Courthouse.”

And Larry H. said, “...yeah, Charles, but did you really call Judge Seals at home late at night?” We both agreed that calling a Federal judge at home, much less late at night, is unheard of in the legal annals of Texas, but the situation was dire and Charles admitted “...I didn’t have any other option.”

The legal aspect of the movie is extremely well done sans the negotiations on the loading dock.

This is a fascinating movie that chronicles the riveting life of Li from his impoverished village in a totalitarian China to his superb performances on the Houston stages of Jones Hall and Wortham Center.

I was emotionally involved throughout the movie and can pay it the ultimate compliment: I look forward to seeing it again, soon.

The direction by Bruce Beresford was a work of art in his skillful translation from the book to the screen.

The performance by Bruce Greenwood as our own Ben Stevenson, the longtime artistic director of the Houston Ballet, was spectacular and one of my early favorites as Best Supporting Actor.

The dancing and portrayal of the adult Li by Chi Cao, who is a Principal Dancer with the Birmingham Royal Ballet, made the story believable and poignant. Go see this movie now.

Rock ‘n Roll.

Grade 93.

Larry H sugarlaw@larryharrison.com

Automobile: Range Rover

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2010 Range Rover is the flagship model and an exquisite, luxury SUV. The $94,275 vehicle arrived looking gorgeous in Zermatt silver with elegance inside and out and a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 that makes a whopping 510 horsepower and 461 lbs.ft. torque.

For 2010 the Range Rover got an upgraded interior, new instrument cluster gauges, adaptive dynamics to further improve the ride quality, new brakes, updated terrain response and dynamic stability control system for all-terrain performance, emergency brake assist, available blind spot monitoring and surround camera system.

The top performance supercharged engine vaults from 0-60 in 5.9 seconds and gets 12 miles to the gallon in city driving and 18 mpg on the highway. Ranger Rover buyers have two new 5.0-liter LRV8 engines to choose from.

The engines were developed to deliver more power and refinement without an increase in fuel consumption and emissions.

The supercharged engine provides 29 percent more power and 12 percent more torque than the previous 4.2-liter supercharged engine and conforms to ULEV2 emissions regulations. The torque-actuated variable cam timing on all four cams is an industry first on a V8.

The Range Rover engine also uses a reverse flow cooling system to improve engine and cabin warm up. The new LR-V8s have a low-friction design, and lightweight construction was achieved by using recycled materials.

A sixth generation twin-

vortex supercharger is fitted to the 510-horsepower engine and improves noise quality and efficiency. The engine is mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, which features a sport mode that can sense and adapt to particular driving styles.

The 2010 Range Rover has a new adaptive dynamics system, which further improves its ride quality with greater refinement and body control.

Land Rover says it’s the “world’s first production system” to use model-based predictive technology that continually optimizes damper settings for the widest possible range of conditions.

The system optimized the vehicle’s body and ride control and instantly responds to the demands of the prevailing driving style and the terrain encountered in on and offroad situations.

This year’s Range Rover also got a new braking system.

It uses ventilated front discs with new twin piston castiron sliding calipers for more pedal feel. The rear has ventilated discs with lightweight aluminum single piston sliding calipers.

A refinement to the stabil-

ity control system helps automatically slow the vehicle if the driver takes a corner too fast and the vehicle’s terrain response system got multiple improvements.

One of those improvements is for soft sand, which is a highly power-hungry surface.

Sand launch control has been added to make it easier to drive away.

For safe and more stable towing, the 2010 Range Rover has trailer stability assist, which monitors key vehicle behaviors to detect trailer oscillations. The Rover also got an updated touch screen and an adaptive cruise control system to keep the Rover a specific distance from the vehicle ahead.

Inside the Range Rover is a new luxury grade of European leather trim for the headliner, pillar and door casings. The seats are beautifully swathed in leather and satin black and natural wood finishes complete the interior.

Every bell and whistle imaginable is on the Range Rover. It rides wonderfully, handles beautifully and its interior and exterior design are first class.

‘Cat in the hat’ story times The Youth Services departments at Fort Bend County Libraries will present special “Cat in the Hat” Family Story Times this month, in conjunction with HoustonPBS’s “The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!” program.

Designed to spark a love of learning and an interest in science, the Story Times use Dr. Seuss’s popular “Cat in the Hat” theme to encourage children to become tomorrow’s innovators and scientists. Libraries throughout the Fort Bend County library system have planned stories and activities

for children and their families to enjoy. The schedule is as follows: •Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City; Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.

•George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview, Richmond: Wednesday, Sept. 1, 11a.m.

•Albert George Branch Library, 9230 Gene Street in Needville; Thursday, Sept. 2, 4 p.m.

•Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library, 8100 FM 359 South in Fulshear; Thursday, Sept.2, 5:30 p.m.

•First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land; Thursday, Sept. 2, 6 p.m.

•Cinco Ranch Branch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy; Thursday, Sept.

2, 7 p.m.

•Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge; Saturday,Sept.4, 10:15 a.m.

•Missouri City Branch Library, 1530 Texas Parkway; Saturday, Sept. 4, 10:30 a.m.

The programs are free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-341-2677, or your nearest branch library.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 25, 2010

Lunch and learn seminar on interior design Houston international interior residential and commercial designer, Deborah Healon will be the featured speaker at the Sept. 10 professional development program of the American Business Women’s Association, 11:30 to 1 p.m. at a luxury $1.3 million home at 1123 Grand Estates Drive in the Lakes of Williams Ranch subdivison in Richmond. The home is built by Dan Sprouse of Sprouse House Custom Homes.

This old world tuscan design is a 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom home. Come view the home with a Library. Pub, Room, 3 Fireplaces and 3 Car-Garage, plus 2 car Portico, during this lunch seminar.

Healon in past years has taught interior design and architecture at the University of Houston Interior Design Department. Her degree is in interior design with a minor in architecture from the University of Southern Illinois.

With over 25 years in her business, Healon has designed for new construction and remodeling projects in

the, U.S., Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Plus numerous other cities across the nation.

In 2007 a building design partner won first place with the Texas Institute of Building Design-State competition of which Healon designed the interiors for the bank project.

Join Deborah for this lunch and learn seminar where you will learn the principles of interior design, she will show you thru her presentation the secrets of a well-designed space.

This seminar is for someone who is involved in a residential or commercial project.

Her lecture appeals to every design concept you might be thinking about!

Deborah generates ideas with this seminar on educating the audience to think like an interior designer.

Included in this seminar is the president of T.I.B.D. Don Brooks who will be displaying his custom home drawings and elevations. Also another special guest is building inspector Bob Lovelace, The Home Inspector.

Auditions for Robin Hood Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre will be holding auditions for Robin Hood to open Sept. 10. Newcomers and beginners are always welcome! Please bring a head-shot or picture to the audition. Teens (12+) and adults should bring a great sense of humor, a recent headshot or photo, and be prepared to do some comedy! The audition will include cold readings from the script and will be held from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Wenesday, August 25th at 2815 N. Main Street in Stafford. For more information, please visit the FBT website at www.fortbendtheatre.com or call 281-208-3333.

Workshop on QuickBooks The University of Houston Fort Bend County Small Business Development Center will host QuickBooks Pro 2010 workshop in English, on Wednesday, Sept. 8, part 1 and Wednesday, Sept. 15, part 2.

QuickBooks Pro 2010 is an easy to use tool that can simplify your business’s accounting system. This workshop is designed for the novice QuickBooks user.

In this hands-on workshop, you will define general accounting terms used in bookkeeping, determine your method of bookkeeping; cash or accrual, set up a new company and manage accounts payables and receivables, discover how to invoice customers and set up a payroll system.

The class will be held at 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in English at the U of H Fort Bend County SBDC, 117 Lane Drive, Rosenberg, Texas. For more information, or to register for the event, contact UH Fort Bend County SBDC at 281-341-5027 (Rosenberg SBDC) or 281-499-9787 (Missouri City SBDC).

For additional information about the University of Houston Small Business Development Center and its programs, visit the organization’s web site at www.sbdc.uh.edu. The UH SBDC is a program of the C.T. Bauer College of Business and a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Golf tournament to aid police officers The Missouri City Police Officers Association invites the public to be a sponsor, donor or participant in the Missouri City Police Officers Association Annual Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept. 17 at the Quail Valley Golf Course on the renovated El Dorado Course.

All donations and/or sponsorship will enable them to continue to help feed hungry families, bring toys to area underprivileged children at Christmas, give to local charities, assist officers in emergencies and continue to support the community-oriented projects throughout the year. Last year they awarded seven $1500 college scholarships in memory and honor of former officers Damian Buckner and Andrew Svoboda. They have various sponsorships and hole signs advertising your business/name.

Registration will start at 9:30 a.m. and lunch will be provided. Shotgun start at 11:00am followed by a buffet dinner and auction.

If interested contact Officer Donna Quackenbush #592 President, Missouri City Police Officer’s Association @ dquackenbush@missouricitytx.gov or Floyd Emery @floydemery@ sbcglobal.net The MCPOA is a non profit 501 (c) (5) organization.

Free Family Law workshop Fort Bend Lawyers CARE’s free Family Law Workshop is open to residents of Fort Bend County with Family Law questions. It will be held on Sept. 1, at Child Advocates of Fort Bend, 5403 Avenue N, Rosenberg, TX 77471 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The Family Law Workshop is being sponsored by: Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Fort Bend Cares, and Fort Bend Lawyers CARE. If you are a low-income Fort Bend County resident, join Fort Bend Lawyers CARE at its free workshop for legal information in regards to Family Law including: Divorce, child support, child custody/visitation, and adoption.

Bring any prior court orders with you. Call Fort Bend Lawyers CARE to pre-qualify and/or if you need more information 281-239-0015.

Reservations must be received by Tuesday Aug. 31. Make checks payable to ABWA for $20. Mail check to DEH Interiors 5757 Westheimer Ste. #183 Houston, Texas 77057 or call 713-5108191 with any questions.

No: 1O-DCV-180847 TIMOTEO PEREZ Plaintiffs, V DANIEL GOODWIN, KENNETH § QUENNEVILLE MD, ZINESH GOLANI, MALIKE GOLANI, and ANITA MULLER, Defendants IN THE DISTRICT COURT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT BRIEF FOR SERVICE OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT: COMES NOW, TIMOTEO PEREZ, Plaintiff in the above-entitled and numbered cause, and files this Brief for Service of Citation by Publication, pursuant to Rule 109 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure: THE STATE OF TEXAS - COUNTY OF FORT BEND TO: ZINESH GOLANI whose residence and whereabouts are unknown. You have been sued. You may employ an attorney.

If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after service of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The original petition was filed on or about May 14, 2010, in the 240th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas. This Court has authority in this suit and may enter a judgment which will be binding on you.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said court at Richmond, Texas on this the 19th day of August, 2010.

Honorable Annie Rebecca Elliot Fort Bend County District Clerk 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 17TH day of JUNE 2010 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09DCV-170673 in favor of the Plaintiff —MISSION GLEN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, for the sum of $3,288.06 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 14TH day of JULY 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -THEODORE NDAMUKUNDA AND VIOLETTE MUKASUGIRA, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT TWENTYSIX (26), IN BLOCK TWO (2) OF MISSION GLEN, SECTION THREE (3), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE1124/A OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS LOCATED THEREON, ALSO KNOWN AS 8310 ASHLAWN DRIVE, HOUSTON, TEXAS. Any properties sold shall be subjetc to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interets therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law.

ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOTU WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $74,050.00 Terms: Cash.

Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 12TH day of JULY 2010 by the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09-DCV-174703 in favor of the Plaintiff —SAN MIGUEL CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $1,837.32 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 14TH day of JULY 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -JUAN R. SALINAS had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT FIFTYONE (51), BLOCK TWO (2) OF MISSiON BEND SAN MIGUEL, SECTION FIVE (5), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 22, PAGE 20 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY,TEXAS (AND COMMONLY KNOWN AS 15326 ENSENADA DR., HOUSTON, TEXAS 77083 HEREIN AFTER REFERRED TO AS THE “PROPERTY” Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law.

ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $96,130.00 Terms: Cash.

Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306

NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 24TH day of JUNE 2010 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09-DCV173221 in favor of the Plaintiff —FORT BEND COUNTY & ET AL, Plaintiff, for the sum of $19,636.61 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 25TH day of JUNE 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -JACKIE ROBINSON & ET AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO 0064000003925907 CPC R 36883 BEING 0.124 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, OUT OF THE JOHN HENRY BOWLES 4.23 ACRE TRCAT IN THE WILLIAM T. NEAL SURVEY, ABSTRACT NUMBER 64, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (0064000003925907) ADJUDGED MARKET VALUE: $44,800.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306 No: 1O-DCV-180847 TIMOTEO PEREZ Plaintiffs, V DANIEL GOODWIN, KENNETH § QUENNEVILLE MD, ZINESH GOLANI, MALIKE GOLANI, and ANITA MULLER, Defendants IN THE DISTRICT COURT FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT BRIEF FOR SERVICE OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT: COMES NOW, TIMOTEO PEREZ, Plaintiff in the above-entitled and numbered cause, and files this Brief for Service of Citation by Publication, pursuant to Rule 109 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure: THE STATE OF TEXAS - COUNTY OF FORT BEND TO: MALIK GOLANI whose residence and whereabouts are unknown. You have been sued. You may employ an attorney.

If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after service of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The original petition was filed on or about May 14, 2010, in the 240th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas. This Court has authority in this suit and may enter a judgment which will be binding on you.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said court at Richmond, Texas on this the 19th day of August, 2010.

Honorable Annie Rebecca Elliot Fort Bend County District Clerk 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and/ or Order of Sale issued on June 3rd, 2010 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY Texas in cause #08-DCV-161690 in favor of the Plaintiff QUAIL BRIDGE COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,299.54 +++ costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on July 13th, 2010 and will offer for sale on the7th day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) - GABRIEL P. CORTEZ had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 15, IN BLOCK 4, OF BENCHMARK, SECTION 1, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 28, PAGE 22 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, (THE PROPERTY) ALSO KNOWN AS 16707 SONATA COURT, HOUSTON, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 77053.

Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 11 a.m.

RUBEN DAVIS, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 2 By: Lieutenant G. Majors #73 Deputy Constable

NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 19TH day of JULY 2010 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09-DCV-176614 in favor of the Plaintiff —FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $4,224.41 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 29TH day of JULY 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -TEN J. D’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO: 3850020030440 CPC: 235 06320030440 LOT 44, BLCOK 3, OF HUNTER’S GLEN SECTION TWO, AN ADDIITON IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 17, PAGE 6 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED/MARKET VALUE:$98,930.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306

NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 12TH day of JULY 2010 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09DCV-170674 in favor of the Plaintiff —MISSION GLEN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,330.10 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 5TH day of AUGUST 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -JOSE MALDONADO had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT ONE (1), IN BLOCK THREE (3) OF MISSION GLEN, SECTION THREE(3), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE 678/A AND SLIDE 678/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 15902 RIVERSIDE GROVE DRIVE, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77083.

MARKET VALUE: $107,670.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 17TH day of JUNE 2010 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #09DCV-170716 in favor of the Plaintiff —MISSION GLEN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,912.05 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 16TH day of JULY 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -GRACE O. OLORUNYOMI had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT NINETYONE (91), IN BLOCK EIGHT (8) OF MISSION GLEN, SECTION ONE(1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE 574/A OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS LOCATED THEREON, ALSO KNOWN AS 15315 PRAIR. MARKET VALUE: $129,650.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 10TH day of AUGUST 2010 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #07DCV-158237 in favor of the Plaintiff — CHELFORD CITY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT & ET AL, Plaintiff, for the sum of $3,018.64 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 12TH day of AUGUST, 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -PAUL MAZURANIC & ET AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: CPC 5024020030460/502402003046097 LOT 46 IN BLOCK 3 OF MISSION BEND NORTH, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION PARTLY IN HARRIS COUNTY AND IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 265, PAGE 116 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS AND IN VOLUME 21, PAGE 28 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY TEXAS. ADJUDGED MARKET VALUE: $81,410.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 10TH day of AUGUST 2010 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #07DCV-158266 in favor of the Plaintiff — FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET AL, Plaintiff, for the sum of $17,524.64 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 12TH day of AUGUST, 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -BEAUREGARD STUBBLEFIELD, & ET AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO 6250010120900907 CPC R 10478 LOT 9 IN BLOCK 12 OF RIDGEMENT, SECTION 1, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 6, PAGE 14 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. ADJUDGED MARKET VALUE: $84,250.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306

Legal Notices LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2010 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 and the names of the proposers made public.

Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

RFP 10-119 – THIRD PARTY CREDIT CARD SERVICES FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT Fee schedule is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered. Bonds are not required. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and/ or Order of Sale issued on June10th, 2010 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY Texas in cause #07-DCV-158975 in favor of the Plaintiff QUAIL GREEN WEST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $6,049.20 +++ costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on July 28th, 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7th day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) - BRANNON NEALY had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 08, IN BLOCK 01, OF QUAIL GREEN WEST, SECTION 3, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAPS OR PLATS FILED IN THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, UNDER SLIDES NO. 586/B AND 587/A, REPLATTED UNDER SLIDE NOS. 676/B AND 677/A, AND PARTIALLY REPLATTED UNDER SLIDE NOS. 1676/B AND 1789/B, AS MODIFIED BY ANY SUPPLEMENTS THERETO OR ADDITIONAL REPLATS THEREOF, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2030 GREENCREST DRIVE, MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS 77489.

Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 11 a.m.

RUBEN DAVIS, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 2 By: Lieutenant G. Majors #73 Deputy Constable

CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the County Court at Law No. 4 of Fort Bend County, Texas on June 22, 2010 in cause numbered 09ccv039013 styled Wallboard Stockers Inc vs.

Maplewood Homes and Maplewood Management Corp., in which a judgment was rendered on August 3, 2009 in favor of Wallboard Stockers Inc for the sum of Six Thousands Seven Hundred Forty Dollars and Eighty Cents ($6740.80); plus fees for posting notice of sale, publishing, costs of suit rendered by the court, legal fees, and all costs of executing this Writ.

I have levied upon the below listed property on August 12, 2010 and will on September 7, 2010, Tuesday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the Right, Title, and Interest of Maplewood Homes and Maplewood Management Corp. to and in the following described Real Property Lakes of Williams Ranch Sec1, Block 2, Lot 17 , MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS : 5607 Waters Landing Lane, Richmond, Tx 77469 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of ROSEMARY LACY, Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: September 7, 2010 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 am BY: DEPUTY S. STEELE Troy E. Nehls Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 10TH day of AUGUST 2010 by the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND Texas in cause #05-DCV-145314 in favor of the Plaintiff — FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET AL, Plaintiff, for the sum of $9,254.92 +++costs as taxed on said Execution and/ or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the 12TH day of AUGUST, 2010 and will offer for sale on the 7TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2010 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF OTHER UNKNOWN OWNERS, ADVERSE CLAIMANTS OWNING OR CLAIMING ANY LEGAL OR EQUITABLE INTEREST IN AND TO SUCH PROPERTY had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: Property is sold with all encumbrances and liens affixed thereto. All sales are final.

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: GEO 0361000000304907 CPC R46434 ALL THAT CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND CONTAINING 0.50 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, LOCATED IN THE I & G.N.R.R. COMPANY SURVEY, NUMBER 4, ABSTRACT 361, IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN THE WARRANTY DEED FROM JOHN MCDONALD, ET AL, TO PEARL COLE DATED AUGUST 8, 1969 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 519, PAGE 56 IN THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY TEXAS. (ACCOUNT NUMBER 0361000000304907) ADJUDGED MARKET VALUE: $81,410.00 Terms: Cash. Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

ROB COOK , CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3

By JUAN DIAZ Deputy Constable #1306

AUGUST 25, 2010 • INDEPENDENT • Page 7

Outstanding Realtors

Not just oil, Pennzoil

Fort Bend Symphony’s Hauntcert

Suzette Peoples, left, with Paul Lim of Ashton Woods Homes displays the Realtor of the Year 2010 award presented to her during Ashton Woods’ annual event held recently.

Paul Lim, known as “Chinese Cowboy” is flanked by Paul Sims, Houston Division President of Ashton Woods and Dan Gazella, VP Sales & Marketing Ashton Woods after receiving a special recognition for Outstanding Closing of $11.8 million for 2010.

ANNUAL SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE. The Fort Bend County Deputy Sheriff’s Association in partnership with the Ya Ya Divas, a community service group, delivered over 315 backpacks and school supplies to children and teachers at Meyer Elementary, Beasley Elementary and Deaf Smith Elementary on Friday, Aug. 20. The two

organizations recognize and understand that this has been a very difficult year and many families are suffering financial hardships during these economic times. In an effort to raise money for the Annual Fort Bend County Deputy Sheriff’s Association School Supply Drive the Ya Ya Divas teamed together and held a bake sale at the Fort Bend

Pet for adoption

The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra’s 2010-2011 season is creeping up on us with Hauntcert, the opening concert, on Oct. 17. However, the buy-one-get-one free offer on season subscriptions ends Sept. 3. The orchestra’s 19th season includes a liberal dose of pops music and fun activities tied to popular occasions like Halloween, Christmas and movie nights. Season subscriptions include five concerts and begin at $50 for adults.

Tickets are available at www.fbso.org or by calling 281-276-9642. Discounts are provided for seniors over 55, military with I.D., and students. Children 12 and under are free, but must have reserved seats.

Above, FBSO flutists Donna Fletcher, Stacey Henderson Tharalson and Dipali Venkataraman Rinker are busy preparing for the upcoming season. (Photo by J. Steiner Roberts)

County Sheriff’s Office.

Photo (Pictured L – R) Lt. Yolanda Elliott (Jail Administration), Teresa Culverhouse (Jail Administration), Joyce Johnson (Jail Administration), Hannah Rader (Ya Ya Diva), and Sergeant Angel Rader (Jail Administration)

FtBendSportsMedicine.com Enjoy your Sport - Decrease your Chances of Getting Hurt While I enjoy doing surgery, I have always believed the best approach to Sports Medicine is teaching my patients how to take care of themselves so they are less likely to get hurt in the first place. Why have surgery if you can avoid it?

The off-season is the time to prepare, and one size does not fit all. Let me evaluate your current physical conditioning and workout routine to help you develop a personalized training program to maximize your fitness for your sport.

THOMAS J. PARR, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON The Missouri City Pet of the Week, Sampson, is a Shih Tzu looking for a “forever home.”

He has very distinctive markings and is about two years old.

Sampson is great with children and would be a wonderful addition to any family. He is a small boy, and is very smart and eager to learn.

If you would like to take Sampson home with you, please call the Missouri City Animal Shelter at 281-4038970 to make an appointment. The shelter is located behind the City Hall complex at 1923 Scanlin Rd. The City’s website also features an Adopt-A-Pet listing with information about adoption fees and requirements for adopting a pet.

For more information, visit

www.missouricitytx.gov/ Government/Public-Works/ Animal-Control and click on the “Adopt-A-Pet” link.

14090 Southwest Fwy, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: (281) 491-7111 www.tomparrmd.net www.FtBendSportsMedicine.com

THE TIME IS NOW, THE WAIT IS OVER www.RemaxFine.com 281-265-5533 281-2655533 Highway 6 & Austin Parkway We Can Show You ANY House Listed!

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 25, 2010

Free prostate cancer screening on Sept. 13 and 14

NEW 2010 TOYOTA

COROLLA model # 1831 manual transmission.

$

13,995

NEW 2011 TOYOTA

CAMRY model # 2513 manual transmission.

$

16,495 Photos for illustration purposes only. Must qualify for all incentives, rebates and discounts to receive sale price.

Rebates from TMS/GST. Plus tax, title and license. Dealer Fees included. See dealer for complete details.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center will host free prostate cancer screenings Sept. 13 and 14 from 5:30–8 p.m. Pre-registration is required.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cancer in men, behind skin cancer.

More than 217,000 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed this year, and one in six men will be diagnosed at some point in their lives. Fortunately, when detected and treated early, prostate cancer has an excellent cure rate.

The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut and is located under the bladder. The gland is found only in men.

“The prostate grows as a man reaches maturity and is maintained at adult size for as long as male hormones are being produced,” said Lawrence Baum, M.D., urologist on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Urologist also on staff, John Boon, M.D. states, “Sometimes the prostate continues to grow over time around the urethra, the tube that carries urine.

“This causes urinary outflow blockage, disrupting normal urinary habits. This can simply be the result of an enlarged prostate or it could be a sign of cancer. “ Most prostate cancer does

John Boon, M.D. and Lawrence Baum, M.D. not cause symptoms, however, and can only be detected

by PSA screening along with digital rectal exam.”

The American Cancer Society suggests that all men over age 50 should be screened annually, and men at high risk, such as African Americans and men with a family history of prostate cancer, are encouraged to begin screenings as early as 40.

Schedule your free screening now for prostate-specific

antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).

As with many cancers, early detection of prostate cancer and a variety of treatment options offer the best chance of a successful outcome.

Space is limited and registration is required for the free prostate screening. Call 281274-7500 to schedule an appointment.

For more information, visit www.MethodistSugarLand. com.

WJ Interests named top advisor WJ Interests, LLC, has been ranked among the top financial planning firms in the U.S. by Financial Advisor and Wealth Management magazines.

This is the sixth straight year WJ Interests has been included on the Wealth Manager list and the third straight year to be listed by Financial Advisor magazine. Both lists can be viewed at www.wjinterests.com. ‘‘We are very pleased to be ranked again,’’ said Jared Jameson, chief investment officer and vice president of the

firm. ‘‘We appreciate the confidence our clients have shown in this difficult economic environment.’’

Wealth managers had to meet several criteria to be included in the rankings: a firm must be an SEC registered investment advisor with its own IARD number; have minimum assets under advisement of at least $50 million; have individuals or high-net-worth individuals as more than half of its client base; and offer financial planning services in addition to asset management.

“The firms that participate in the annual Top Wealth Managers survey are the lion’s share of the largest, most established registered investment advisors (RIAs), in America,” according to WealthManagerWeb. com’s Editor-in-Chief Kathleen McBride. ‘‘We believe our clients’ trust is the most valuable asset we manage,’’ Jared said.

For more information, visit www.wjinterests.com or call 281-634-9400.