VOL 10 No. 38
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2017
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City
CAD undertakes revaluation of homes affected by flood
By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County Commissioners Court on Sept. 12 authorized the Fort Bend Central Appraisal District to reappraise all property located within Fort Bend County damaged by the Hurricane Harvey-related severe weather and flooding events. Texas Tax Code provides that if property damaged in the disaster is reappraised, the governing body shall provide for prorating the taxes on the property for the year in which the disaster occurred. Fort Bend County Central Appraisal District’s Chief Appraiser Glen Whitehead will immediately begin re-appraisal of properties and he would request assistance from other appraisal districts to provide staff for carrying out the job immediately. Jut as in the regular appraisal process, homeowners who disagree with the revaluation can file protests with the CAD. Even those who have already repaired or are repairing the damages can still provide the proof of repair costs to enable the CAD to revalue the property. The Commissioners Court has also authorized prorating of the taxes on such damaged and reappraised property for tax year 2017. From Jan. 1 to Aug. 28, 2017, the property will be valued at its current appraised value. From Aug. 29 to Dec. 31, 2017, the damages will be taken into account and the reduced property
value be taken for tax purposes. The taxes on the property based on its value on January, 2017 are multiplied by a fraction, the denominator of which is 365 and the numerator of which is the number of days before the date the disaster occurred; the taxes on the property based on its reappraised value are multiplied by a fraction, the denominator of which is 365 and the numerator of which is the number of days, including the date the disaster occurred, remaining in 2017; and the total of the two amounts is the amount of taxes on the property for tax year 2017. Take the example of a home valued at $250,000 and valuation after the damage calculation as $200,000. The full value for the period before Aug. 28 is roughly 65 % or $162,500. The reduced valuation from Aug. 28 to Dec. 31, is about 35 percent of $200,000 or $70,000. Total value for the year will be$232,500 instead of $250,000. Consequently, all taxing entities will get reduced tax revenue from the already projected value. For example, Fort Bend County may lose $1 million in tax revenue this year and another $2 million next year. Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has previously proposed a half-a-cent property tax rate cut for 2018. Fort Bend County current tax rate is 47.4 cents per $100 valu-
ation and the proposed rate will be 46.9 cents per $100 valuation. A one cent tax rate generates $6 million in tax revenue for the county. To offset the loss of revenue caused by Hurricane Harvey, the commissioners court could have eliminated the proposed tax rate cut. Instead County Judge Bob Hebert recommended no change in the proposed tax cut. Hebert said the county’s financial situation is in a good shape and it has $22 million in reserve funds against the norm of $15 million. The county will draw from the reserve funds to meet budget shortfall and will not resort to a tax increase. Other commissioners agreed. According to preliminary estimates, the number of damaged houses in Fort Bend County due to Hurricane Harvey is from 6,000 to 7,000. Commissioner Grady Prestage, while discussing the drainage district budget, suggested that the county earmark some funds to conduct new study on the flooding and find solutions to prevent it in the future. Hebert agreed with the need for an intelligent engineering study, but said he would not wait for the Congress to provide funding, which may take years. Instead, the county will draw from the reserves and authorize a study shortly.
Randle among state finalists for superintendent of the year award Lamar CISD Superintendent Dr. Thomas Randle is one of only five public school administrators from across Texas selected as state finalists for the annual Superintendent of the Year award. Sponsored by the Texas Association of School Boards, the program has recognized exemplary superintendents for excellence and achievement in educational leadership since 1984. Joining Dr. Randle as 2017 finalists and their regions are Robert Jaklich, Victoria ISD, Region 3; LaTonya Goffney, Lufkin ISD, Region 7; Judd Marshall, Mount Pleasant ISD, Region 8; and Jim Vaszauskas, Mansfield ISD, Region 11. “I am honored to be a finalist,” Randle said, “but any honor I receive is only a reflection of the many tremendous employees of Lamar CISD, the commitment from our School Board, as well as a community which recognizes the importance of education.” The 2017 Superintendent of the Year will be announced October 7 at the TASA/TASB Convention in Dallas. The districts of the winning
superintendent and state finalists will receive an award from Balfour, program underwriter. Dr. Randle was named Region 4 Superintendent of the Year in June. The Region 4 Education Service Center serves a seven-county area composed of 49 public school districts and 38 open-enrollment charter schools, representing more than 1.2 million students, 95,000 educators and 1,500 campuses. Randle, superintendent of Lamar CISD for 16 years, serves approximately 32,000
students. He has 36 years of administrative experience. Of particular note to the state selection committee were his emphasis on academic excellence, creative learning and innovative practices. Working with his staff and board of trustees, the Lamar CISD stresses every decision should be made with the students in mind. Randle earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Texas A&M University and doctorate at Oklahoma State University. The state selection committee, which interviewed regional winners August 25-26 in Austin, targeted such issues as advocacy efforts during the regular and special sessions and the importance of all staff members’ contributions to a district’s success. Also explored were the ever-changing challenges facing education leaders as they focus on initiatives and programs that truly benefit students. Candidates are chosen for their strong leadership skills, dedication to improving educational quality, ability to build effective employee relations, student performance, and commitment to public involvement
Fort Bend County Fair Senior Citizens’ Day
It’s a celebration! Fair-going Senior Citizens will be marking the 30th anniversary of the Fort Bend County Fair Senior Citizens’ Day on Monday, Sept. 25. Many of the guests have been visiting the Fort Bend County Fair since they were children. The day is filled with fun and socializing similar to a class reunion. Residents who are 55 years or older will enjoy bingo, door prizes, lunch, and friendship. Live music and a free photo sta-
tion are just some of the activities available to the attendees. This year, the Fort Bend County Fair celebrates 81 years of being part of the community. Several of the attendees have been attending or supporting the Fair for decades. Military veterans, former classmates, and lifelong friends may be spotted in the crowd. There is no charge or registration to attend. The doors will open at 8 a.m. and activities will begin at 9 a.m. A hearty stew
will be served and prepared for lunch by the Senior Citizens’ Day Committee. Local officials, board members, and volunteers will be on hand to help host the day’s events. Vendors representing different businesses will be set up and will be providing gift bags for the guest. For more information call the Fair Office at 281-342-6171 or visit fortbendcountyfair.com.
Governor appoints Ken Cannata Judge of the 458th Judicial District Court Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Kenneth S. Cannata as judge of the 458th Judicial District Court in Fort Bend County for a term set to expire December 31, 2018, or until his successor shall be duly elected and qualified. Kenneth S. Cannata of Richmond has served as Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3 in Fort Bend County for the past 11 years. He is a member of the Fort Bend County Bar Association, Texas Association of Civil Trial and Appellate Specialists
Cannata and the State Bar of Texas and its Justice of the Peace Sec-
tion. Additionally, he is board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Civil Trial Law. He is a volunteer for the West Fort Bend Women’s Charity and has previously served as a member of the board of directors and president of the Fort Bend County Dispute Resolution Center. Cannata received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Florida and a Juris Doctor, with honors, from South Texas College of Law.
“This is the county’s temporary debris site on Harlem road. It, and a second large site on Sienna Parkway south of Sienna Springs, are our two primary sites for temporarily storing debris. They allow us to maximize the amount of time debris trucks are in front of homes picking up debris. As we wind down the debris will be taken to Type 1 landfills on FM 762 or on FM 521. As of Saturday we have picked up 91,700 cubic yards of the estimated 500,000 cubic yards in the county,” says Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert in his Facebook posting.
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20, 2017
NEWS Elkins High School 2017 Salutatorian Gabrielle Le receives Youth Excellence award Each year, the Vietnamese Culture and Science Association honors outstanding high school students during its Youth Excellence Recognition Luncheon. The honorees are Houstonarea, Vietnamese-American high school graduates who were either valedictorians or salutatorians of their respective schools. Among this year’s honorees was Elkins High School’s 2017 Salutatorian, Gabrielle Le. Le is a 2017 National Merit
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Scholarship Finalist, a National AP Scholar and a four-time Academic Excellence award winner (2014-2017). She was also named Sugar Land Exchange Club’s Youth of the Month and received awards in the 2017 Academic Decathlon (Medalist in Essay, Interview, Language/Literature and Art) and 2017 UIL Academics (1st place in Spelling and 4th place in Literary Criticism). Her career goal is to become a medical doctor. Elkins High School Principal Deidra Lyons-Lewis and AP Physics teacher, Dr. Anthony Lau, accompanied Le to the awards Luncheon on August 6. Right, Pictured are award recipient Gabrielle Le (left) with Elkins Principal Deidra Lyons-Lewis.
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Wharton County Junior College recently held a pinning ceremony for graduates of the LVN program. Pictured, front row, from left, are Megan McGill of Richmond, Nora Mata of Wharton, Clara Charlton of Bastrop, Yulena Morin of Richmond, Rubi Bocanegra of Needville and Stephanie Nieto of Palacios. Second row, left to right, are Hannah Emmons of Orchard, Jessica Holmquist of Richmond, Brittany Zbranek of El Campo, Shanequa Clark of Richmond, Alli Ford of Bay City, Tonia Pavlicek of Needville, Mercedez Barrera of Bay City and Kayla Nuspliger of Wharton. Back row, left to right, are Jadie Morales of Richmond, Roisha Hutchinson of Brazoria, My’Shonique Jackson of Pledger, Selena Capak of Lolita, Jessica Bridwell of Sweeny, Kaitlyn Noseux of Needville, Terra Cook of El Campo, Lauren Miksik of El Campo and Tyler Rempel of El Campo.
FBJSL gives back to Hurricane Harvey relief eorts
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providing your family with great health care Because every child deserves it, we make quality health care affordable to all parents. Medicaid, Chip and private a insurance is accepted. A sliding fee scale is also available for those who qualify. 281-342-4530 myaccesshealth.org
FBJSL Members delivering items for Hurricane Harvey relief: (Left to right) President Jen Rizzo and son Joseph delivering to Fort Bend Seniors; Holly Thompson delivering to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry; and Kimberly Camp (not pictured) delivering to Staord High School. Fort Bend County has suffered catastrophic damage as a result of Hurricane Harvey and the unprecedented rain and ooding that has followed. The women of the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) have stepped up in a number of ways to help the community in this time of need. Members of FBJSL have been collecting and delivering needed supplies to various non-proďŹ t agencies all over Fort Bend County, volunteering to assist with clean-up eorts, and donating 300 remaining 2016 Sugar Plum Market bags to the Staord High School hurricane relief shelter for guests to keep their personal belongings. Additionally, FBJSL has set
up a Harvey Community Assistance Fundraiser to raise funding for relief eorts. The Harvey Community Assistance Fundraiser, established through the Fort Bend Junior Service League Community Assistance Fund, will allow FBJSL to continue giving back to the various charitable agencies that are suering. It will also aid those agencies in their own recovery due to the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. Non-proďŹ t organizations interested in applying for a grant from these funds may apply online at www.fbjsl.org. Community Assistance Fund applications can be found under the “Communityâ€? tab and by clicking “Request Supportâ€?.
To contribute to the FBJSL Harvey Community Assistance Fundraiser, please visit www.fbjsl.org. Donations are tax deductible and can be made directly online through the link on the FBJSL home page. The Fort Bend Junior Service League is a 501(c)(3) organization. It is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the eective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, goodwill and camaraderie for all members.
Missouri City Green to host water smarter workshop
Want a healthy yard with plenty of curb appeal while using water wisely? Attend a free Water Smarter Workshop on Saturday, September 23 at the Missouri City Recreation & Tennis Center located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive 77459 from 9 to 11 a.m. with sign-in beginning at 8:30. Specialists from Ft Bend Master Gardeners will show you how to conserve water by tweaking your current irrigation system, collecting and using rainwater and selecting plants with a low water requirement. You will also see a hands-on demonstration of how to install and maintain a drip irrigation system. Register your attendance at www. missouricitygreen.org and earn a ticket in the prize drawings.
INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20, 2017 • Page 3
NEWS
Sugar Land set to adopt $213 million budget with a nominal 0.6 cent increase in tax rate Sugar Land City Council was set to consider the 2017 tax rate and ďŹ scal year 2018 budget at its meeting on Sept. 19. Public hearings on the tax rate were held on Aug. 22 and Sept. 5, and a public hearing on the budget was held Aug. 15. City Manager Allen Bogard submitted a proposed $231 million budget on July 18. For details on the proposed budget, visit www. sugarlandtx.gov/budget. A series of ďŹ ve budget workshops was held during the month of August. The proposed general fund budget of $90.4 million includes $2.9 million in savings as compared to ďŹ scal year 2017. Reductions include the following items: *$655,000 is saved on ďŹ xed costs such as fuel/ electricity and the streetscape beautiďŹ cation program. *A $560,000 increase
in budgeted salary savings represents a reduction to expenditures. *Infrastructure rehabilitation funding, which was previously funded at a level of more than $3 million per year, was reduced to $1.4 million for ďŹ scal year 2018. *Capital projects were spread out, with many delayed. The proposed budget is ďŹ scally conservative and proactively responsive to changing consumer retail patterns, ongoing uncertainty in the oil/gas market and the city’s aging infrastructure and population. Issues facing Sugar Land -- including declining revenue streams, unfunded state mandates and preemption of local control -- create challenges in maintaining the high level of services that citizens expect while maintaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates. The proposed budget is based on City Council-
approved ďŹ nancial policies that call for an eective tax rate - the rate required to raise the same amount of revenue in 2017 from properties that were on the tax roll in 2016 - plus 3 percent to address annual inationary costs of business. “In most years, the eective tax rate plus 3 percent to achieve the budgeted revenue doesn’t require any adjustment to the tax rate itself,â€? said Bogard. “The growth in property values covers the conservative growth in expenditures. This year, property revaluation was only 1.53 percent for residential property and 3.53 percent for commercial which means we either have to cut services or adjust the tax rate to achieve the revenue necessary to support the budget.â€? The eective tax rate plus 3 percent of 32.233 cents means the nominal tax rate increases by 0.638 cents compared to last year.
Eagle extravaganza helps raise funds for Harvey relief
During budget workshops, City Council expressed concerns about the decrease in funding available for rehabilitation due to the decline in sales tax revenue and valuations that fell short of projections. A tax rate of 32.233 cents funds the budget as proposed and ensures that the city will have revenues available to support services in uncertain economic times. The city’s sales tax revenue continues to fall short of last year and could further be impacted by Hurricane Harvey into ďŹ scal year 2018. With the recommended tax rate of 32.233 cents, the average home valued at $379,530 with a 10 percent homestead exemption will see a tax bill of $1,101.01 for 2017, an increase of $43.21 from 2016 - or $21.41 more than the bill would be with a at tax rate of 31.595 cents. Other recommendations in the proposed budget include:
that helps Fort Bend County residents in poverty and crisis, FBCA accepted physical donations such as cleaning supplies. “FBCA Strong� t-shirts were available for purchase and cash donations were also accepted at the gate and at the beverage tent. “It was great to have an opportunity to come together after a stressful time and focus on all we have to be grateful for,� Nicole Bowles, Director of Advancement said. “We are thankful that our families help each other and that Woodlands Christian also participated. Our school community will greatly benefit from so many generous donations.�
More than $33,000 was raised for the FBCA Disaster Relief Fund which will directly benefit FBCA families, faculty and sta aected by the storm.
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development eorts have led businesses to expand, construct improvements, or relocate to Sugar Land - as well as to the completion of destination entertainment venues such as Constellation Field and the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. The positive economic impact of these programs and substantial expansion of the city’s commercial property tax base has allowed the city to oer increased homestead exemptions to residents and lower its property tax rate by approximately 18 cents since 1993. State law requires the city adhere to strict timelines in the truth in taxation process. This process includes dates for public hearings and a ďŹ nal vote on the tax rate, and the schedule was set long before Hurricane Harvey formed. The ďŹ nal vote on the budget and tax rate must take place on Sept. 19.
Compassion for our own
By FLOYD EMERY As Missouri City prepared for the worst of Hurricane Harvey, the Missouri City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) swung into full operational mode. This encompassed City personnel from all departments working two 12 hour shifts all with the mandate to prepare for any emergency that might be encountered. Police and Fire provided the ongoing protection of life and property, Public Works for high water rescues and planning for what to expect as the Brazos River was rising, Communications to keep Missouri City residents apprised of what was transpiring and to provide safety tips and responses to citizen’s inquiries. There were other City personnel assigned to handle Every donation—regardless of the size—made a dierence. Fifth grade students Brianna the logistics on how to feed Lemon, Ashley Huber and Sophia Polasek made and sold jewelry and glow-in-the-dark and house these EOC team molded figurines at the event. They raised $30 dollars and saved $10 so they could buy more members and other state and craft supplies and continue to raise money for the fund. federal personnel assigned to the Missouri City rescue eort, the staging of citizen and business volunteers at various locations, the
On Friday, Sept. 8, Fort Bend Christian Academy celebrated Eagle Extravaganza 2017, an allschool event full of fun for the whole family. Attendees enjoyed a DJ, bounce house, obstacle course, Kona Ice truck, lawn games and more. FBCA football took on The Woodlands Christian Academy, and Swoop, FBCA’s mascot, helped spread school spirit. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the event also provided multiple ways to support and donate to the FBCA Disaster Relief Fund. In partnership with Second Mile Mission Center, an organization
implementation of annexation for Greatwood and New Territory, with annexation revenues covering all annexation costs; and for the parks bond projects approved by voters. To date $21.2 million in General Obligation bonds have been issued out of the $31.5 million approved by voters. So far, the City has avoided the full 3.1 cent tax increase authorized to fund the projects and has only increased the tax rate by .7 cents in 2014. Sugar Land’s tax bill represents 15 percent of the total residential tax bill, with the school district accounting for 64 percent and the county 21 percent. Funding a high level of services while maintaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates has been accomplished, in part, by an aggressive economic development program. The city’s economic
coordination of shelters established to house evacuees and for the critical task of directing and coordinating all activities encompassed in the EOC eort. With this as the backdrop and as the storm eects were being experienced it became apparent that there were individuals within this group that learned their homes and families were impacted by the rising water and winds. As the river crested and emergencies subsided the extent of damage to those City employees aected became known. In true Missouri City tradition the public, businesses and compassionate Missouri City residents established a go-fund-me fund. An impromptu fund raiser was held at the Quail Valley Golf Club supported by Quail Valley Proud, Missouri City Exchange Club and numerous caring Missouri City residents and businesses. A number of businesses in a local business complex also donated to the cause. In total over $41,000 was raised to
assist those approximately 20 Missouri City employees who suered a ďŹ nancial loss due to rising water or wind. To compliment this a committee consisting of several City oďŹƒcials, a former MC City Manager and a representative of the civic organization Missouri City Green was formed to determine how to disperse funds based on the extent of damage and ďŹ nancial impact to each aected employee. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to assist my fellow City Councilmember Anthony Maroulis and the many donors in this compassionate endeavor. I am however most proud of the City employees who performed admirably during this most trying time. “Together we will excelâ€? is not just a City principle but rather a reality that has been on full display. Citizens, businesses, friends of Missouri City and our dedicated employees have all made this happen. (Floyd Emery is a Missouri City City Councilmember.)
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20 , 2017
OPINION
WHEN MY DADDY WENT TO WAR... WWII -- MAY 1944 Written by Carolyn Bowden “If you would drop by my apartment this A.M. you would see a nice light colored picture folder with my little boy on a pony on the left and a little girl on a pony in the middle and on the right of the folder you would find a picture of my lovely little “Lady Barber. “Really, honey, this is the best picture you have ever given to me. I showed it to my C.O. and told him that I thought you were the finest person that I ever met. “I am thinking my little family is very happy on such a nice Sunday morning and not angry with anybody.” (Daddy makes the statement about “being angry or not angry with someone” a lot. I am guessing that because he is in a place where there is fighting and he is apparently exposed to a lot of anger between civilians and between soldiers. He has rare moments of peaceful interchanges among people.) “A year ago today we were on the high seas and very much interested in knowing where we were going to land and how nice it would be to get our feet on good mother earth again. “Last evening I spent a very quiet time in my room reading the local paper and I have lots of Jackson Daily News that I read. I go by Capt. Grimes Bakery and get them from one of his sergeants who is from Jackson. The other day I saw Ryan in the PX and went by that night and showed him the nice lager picture of my best girl. He was pleased and I think he has a lovely wife and daughter too. I think it is wonderful how we were able to marry pretty girls because we are not pretty at all.” Yesterday I received a letter with a blue seal dollar in it. (Explanation of a blue seal dollar: It is a “Silver Certificate. This certifies that there is on deposit in the treasury of The United States of America, One Dollar, in silver, payable on demand. Google: “blue seal dollar” for more information.) “You are kind to offer to send money to me. At the present time I do not have to pay any supplementary mess fee and as a result I have lots of money to waste each month now. In fact I draw $21 per month which is more than I
need. In fact, I have been run-
Bowden ning a surplus. At the present time I am sending you a box of Whitman’s Samplers every week. You have several on the way. I also sent Carolyn a doll that should be there. Keep me posted. I don’t care much for the Italian things and besides they are a lot of trouble to pack. Saw Marlene (Dietrich, popular dancer and movie star) and her million dollar legs last night at the theater. Personally I had still rather have you and I think your legs are just as pretty as hers. “I have an opportunity to move into the nicest hotel in town so I am thinking of giving up housekeeping and taking advantage of some. Don’t you wish sometimes that you could do that?” (Assume this is the Terminus Hotel because he mailed home postcard pictures of it. This may be where the officers who worked with Peninsular Base Section were housed?) “Think I will go shopping today at the PX. Will buy candy and gum, tube of shaving cream and send my girl a box of candy. Did I remind you not to send blue seal money as it is illegal to possess it here. Right now I have a blue seal dollar bill in my pocket. Really, I have plenty of money and will refrain from telling you of my money shortages when they occur. Remember I will always ask for things that I want. Last night I shared my hotel room with another Army officer that let me sleep in his pup tent last October one cold rainy night when I came back from the front and did not have even a rain coat. “Seems to be no limit to the embarrassment attached to a clipped head. Guess we don’t stand much of a chance with you girls getting your heads together. I surely have met
lots of people since I left the States. At the present time I do not see so many due to the fact that I stay behind my desk most of the day. I will ship your present to you tomorrow in a peanut can. Please explain to the little fellows that theirs will come through the PX, like Carolyn’s doll is supposed to.” (This must have been my doll that I named Baby Melvin Rosebud.) “How is the house situation? Remember, I am right behind you. Right or wrong. Seems as if our men are knocking at the gates of Rome this A.M. and Adolph is no doubt thinking of going out the back door. They have been a tough nut to crack but it is being done.” “Yesterday the Commanding General appointed your husband as Military Police District #2 Commander. It is the largest Command that I have ever been entrusted with in my Army Career and the responsibility is very great and trustworthy and the undersigned feels very highly complimented and will not let the General down in his selection. It is going to be rough but I have confidence in myself. So keep your fingers crossed as I am in position to score, if the wind will blow the right way, which it will, if just given enough time. We just must put it over for my little family’s sake. “Dear Daddy, I want to hear from you. Your letters are so good. I love you, Carolyn.” “Dear Carolyn, I want to hear from you too. Your letters are so good. I love you too, Daddy.” NEXT COLUMN: WWII – June 1944
hard at work managing the storm waters and responding to the emergency, neighbors were working hard to help their neighbors, and local businesses, organizations and individuals were supporting the City through opening up their doors as staging areas for displaced residents and providing food for emergency personnel.” The “Sugar Land Strong” event will include music and booths for community organizations, with a performance by Mango Punch at 7:30 p.m. Merchandise will be sold to support relief efforts, and free Sugar Land Strong bracelets will be available for the first 1,000 people. FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.
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Harvey, Joe and God By MIKE GRANTO My wife has lost both kidneys to cancer. She has to have dialysis every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. As she says, “It’s dialysis, or die.” Her clinic was closed at the start of Harvey; not certain why, but not because it was flooded. She missed a session. Prior to the storm, the clinic had given everyone an emergency packet of instructions, with various things in it, such as a central number to call for information on open clinics, which, it turned out, didn’t always have current information, or, not being located in Houston, were simply unaware that some of the clinics they suggested were either flooded, or were not approachable because the roads leading to them were flooded. My wife was busy working the phone, calling the central number, and other clinics, trying to arrange another appointment. I provided what information she needed, and quietly made a “Plan B,” which would be calling 911 and having her taken to Methodist Sugarland, where she had previously received dialysis during a stay. We live in a senior community, and unbeknownst to us, our across-the-hall neighbor, Joe Bowden, had said, “I am just not going to sit around
Granto and do nothing.” He got in his car, and drove to a nearby dialysis clinic he knew of that had recently opened. He said when he got there, there was one car in the parking lot, and as he watched, a woman got out of the car and walked into the clinic. He followed her. He spoke to her, and said, “I have a neighbor with a problem, and you can help.” He explained the situation, and the woman said, “Tell her to bring her paperwork, and we can take her now.” He got in his car, came home, and told my wife, “Get ready, I’m taking you to dialysis. Call me when you’re through, and I’ll come get you.” That’s exactly what my wife did, and that’s exactly what Joe did. Because of Hurricane Harvey my wife missed one dialysis appointment. Because of Joe Bowden, my wife missed ONLY one dialysis appointment. During he hurricane, lots of us stayed glued to our televisions, watching this tragedy
unfold. Some of us followed its progress on the internet. Some folks on the internet were arguing about whether or not God sent Harvey. I have to admit I don’t have much patience with their arguments, whichever side of that argument they espouse. Some felt God sent Harvey because we deserve it; some said it wasn’t God, it was Satan; some said it was weather; bad weather to be sure, but weather, for goodness’ sake. I am not sure any of them knew whereof they spoke. Did God send Harvey? I really don’t know, and I do not believe that anybody else, clergy or laity, knows, either, protestations to the contrary. But I’ll tell you what I DO know: I know God sent Joe Bowden. (This column is being reprinted because the punch line, in italics above, was missed earlier.) (Granto is a United States Marine Corps veteran of Vietnam, awarded the Purple Heart. For over 24 years, he worked for the University of Miami Medical Campus Security Department, and retired in 2014. He moved to Missouri City, with his wife to be closer to her daughter. He can be reached at mikegranto@hotmail.com.)
LETTER
Confederate Street name change To the Editor: This is in reference to the article on Confederate Street and the demand for name change, published in this paper last week. With no disrespect to either Representative Green or Mr. Cummings cannot help but wonder how long Mr.Cummings was offended by living on Confederate Court before Representative Green approached him. Changing names or remov-
ing statues will never alter the historical facts. It is a sad mark on our country that slavery existed, it is also a sad mark on the country that any race was mistreated. Changes were made, not all correcting the mistakes but no law will do so. What will make a change is the understanding of our history, and the willingness of ALL races to find a common denominator. Insulting
the American flag is not acceptable and I believe Mr. Cummings who earned a Purple Heart for his service would hopefully agree. History will never be changed by ignoring it or by eliminating references to the past. Let us continue to be the UNITED States of America. Mr.Cummings, as a veteran myself you have my respect and gratitude. Bill Roy
Fort Bend County residents can choose among three Disaster Recovery Centers I don’t remember this pony ride...it was some sort of a park
City hosts Sugar Land Strong event Sugar Land will hold a community event called “Sugar Land Strong” on Sept. 23, at 5 p.m., at Sugar Land Town Square, located near U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6. The event is intended to honor residents, local businesses, community organizations, employees and others in the community who supported hurricane response and recovery efforts. “Please join us as we celebrate Sugar Land’s strength and resiliency,” said City Manager Allen Bogard. “The City truly came together during and after the storm. While City employees across our organization were
MIKE’S MONOLOGUE
City officials will speak at 6 p.m. to recognize residents impacted by the storm and thank those who helped throughout Hurricane Harvey. For more information about the event, contact the Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at (281) 2752825, email parkrec@sugarlandtx.gov, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov. UNIVERSITY BRANCH LIBRARY PRESENTS DISASTER-RECOVERY WORKSHOP Fort Bend County Libraries invites anyone affected by the recent hurricane to attend a special program, “After the Storm: Fort Bend Disaster-Recovery Workshop,” on Monday, Oct. 2, beginning at 6:30 p.m, in Meeting Room 1 at the University Branch Library, located at 14010 University Blvd. in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. A representative from the Fort Bend United Way THRIVE Center will share current information, tips, and resources that will help people navigate the difficulties of rebuilding their lives after Hurricane Harvey. The workshop is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-6335100 or 281-633-4734.
Fort Bend County residents from all over the county have three easy options for visiting with government officials about their flood assistance process. A third Disaster Recovery Center has opened at the Katy Mills Mall, in addition to one in the Sienna Annex and one at the Simonton Community Church. Disaster recovery centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses in 39 counties included in the Texas federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Harvey and the subsequent floods. Recovery specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State and other agencies will be at the centers to talk about assistance and to help anyone who needs guidance in filing an application. The Fort Bend County Disaster Recovery Centers are listed below: Fort Bend County Sienna Annex 5855 Sienna Spring Way, Missouri City, Texas 77459 Monday – Sunday 7 A.M.-7 P.M. Simonton Community Church 9703 FM 1489 (Simonton
Rd.), Simonton TX 77476 Monday – Saturday 7 A.M.-7 P.M. Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir, Katy, TX 77494 Monday-Sunday 7 A.M.-7 P.M. The U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster assistance employees are committed to helping businesses and residents rebuild as quickly as possible. SBA representatives are available to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program and help business owners and residents apply to SBA. Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. Centers have assistive technology equipment allowing disaster survivors to use amplified telephones, phones that display text, amplified listening devices for people with hearing loss, and magnifiers for people with vision loss. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms. If possible, homeowners, renters and businesses should register with FEMA before
visiting a recovery center. Eligible residents may register for assistance the following ways: Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Phone 800-621-3362 (voice, 711/VRS-Video Relay Service) (TTY: 800-4627585). Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish). Via the FEMA app, available for Apple and Android mobile devices. To download visit: fema.gov/mobile-app. The following information is helpful when registering: Address of the location where the damage occurred (pre-disaster address). Current mailing address. Current telephone number. Insurance information. Total household annual income. Routing and account number for checking or savings account (this allows FEMA to directly transfer disaster assistance funds into a bank account). A description of disastercaused damage and losses. Disaster survivors can visit any of the centers for assistance. Locations of other recovery centers are online at www.fema.gov/DRC.
INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20, 2017 • Page 5
NEWS
Fort Bend Nonprofits work together
Lamar Educational Awards Foundation Executive Director Janice Knight (left) presents a $100 bill to Lamar CISD’s newest teacher, Andrea Lopez. Lopez is starting her career in teaching at Thomas Elementary. This year, L.E.A.F. awarded $100 to every teacher entering Lamar CISD with no experience. Lopez is the 93rd teacher to receive $100 to buy supplies for her classroom. Pedro Chapa (right) is the Lamar CISD recruiter who helped place Lopez at Thomas.
Communication line severed in costly act of criminal mischief
The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information regarding a criminal mischief case in the Sugar Land area. On Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a location on Riverbrook Lane in the Sugar Land area. Personnel with the company that installed the communication line received a notification that the line was not working properly. Company personnel made location to check the line and discovered the unknown per-
sons gained access into the metal guard of the line. The perpetrators then cut the duct with the cable inside and filled the duct with insulation. The cable provides communication service to several businesses and a hospital in the area. The damage was estimated to be approximately $25,000. “This is a senseless crime for anyone to commit,” said Sheriff Troy E. Nehls. “Severing a communications line to a hospital and other businesses can create major problems.”
Anyone who has information on this crime is asked to call Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers, Inc. Call (281) 342TIPS (8477); Send a Text Message: Text FBCCS plus your tip to CRIMES (274637) or Submit Online: http://www. fortbend.crimestoppersweb. com/ Information, which leads to the apprehension and filing of charges on the suspect(s) involved, could earn you up to $5,000 cash reward. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.
Lewis White announces candidacy for the new Fort Bend County Court-at-Law No.6
Katy attorney Lewis White is announcing his intent to run for the newly established Fort Bend County Court at Law #6 on the Republican ticket. He is a native Texan and long time resident of Fort Bend County. The county courts at law handle juvenile, criminal misdemeanor and civil cases, among others. White believes his 15 years of career experience is tailor made for this bench. Lewis White received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from McMurray University and his Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. White began his career serving the public as an Assistant County Attorney in Odessa, Texas. In 2004, he joined the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney. He has also served as Chief of Juvenile and Misdemeanor for the Waller County District Attorney’s Office. In 2007, he established his own law practice. He has managed and tried misdemeanors, juvenile, and felony cases of varying legal complexity. White also has experience with civil, condemnations, and guardianship cases. In 2015, Lewis was selected as the lead special prosecutor for the Sandra Bland case, a case that received international attention. White says “My philosophy is that it is not my job as a judge to make the law, but to “call balls and strikes” based on the law of the land. I look forward to the opportunity to leverage my 15 years of legal experience managing and trying a variety of cases to serve the people of Fort Bend County.
More information on Lewis White for Fort Bend County Court at Law #6 can be found at www.lewiswhiteforjudge. com
White “One of my passions is juvenile law and juvenile cases will comprise a large portion of the docket in County Court #6. Juvenile law has nuances, and requires a judge with experience in these matters. The judge must understand when a juvenile deserves a second chance, and when they are a threat to society. I believe I have that discernment.” Lewis was appointed by former Governor Rick Perry to the State Dental Board of Examiners to help prevent fraud. He has a track record of being active in local Republican organizations. He is on the Alumni Board of McMurry University. Lewis also serves the community as a member of the Fort Bend Exchange Club and a KEYs mentor for Katy Independent School District. Lewis’ wife, Chakilla, is a Group Vice-President for DaVita Healthcare Partners and serves on the State Podiatric Board of Examiners. She is dedicated to preserving conservative values in Fort Bend as a member of the Republican Women’s Club of Katy and recently joined the board of AccessHealth. The Whites are members of Second Baptist Church and live in Cinco Ranch, in Katy, with their 2 children.
Download your free mobile app for fbindependent from the Playstore.
Hope For Three, autism advocates providing help and creating hope: The Make It Fit Foundation, located in Ohio, sent volunteers, who drove over 1,300 miles to deliver a truck-load of autism related supplies and basic need items. Pictured R to L, Front Row: Toryn Hudson, Darla Farmer, Hope For Three Executive Director, Randy Parker and Rebecca Eslinger. Back Row, Elizabeth Munoa, Hope For Three Family Assistance Coordinator & Operations Manager and Jenn Aguero, BCBA. They say every storm has a The entity allows the sphere of to distribute and help replace silver lining and in Ft. Bend influence to expand, advances what was lost. The collaboration further County, Texas, that is undoubt- shared goals and collectively edly true. In the aftermath of creates the biggest impact of strengthens Hope For Three’s Hurricane Harvey, neighborly direct assistance to the greater commitment to aid families living with autism and prosupport and fellowship is alive Houston community. During an emergency, quick vides a helpful resource for and well in the greater Houston area. Hope For Three Au- and unanticipated changes in the community. To receive assistance, Hartism Advocates, is thrilled to routine and environment can unite with the newly formed cause increased anxiety and vey survivors in need are enGreater Houston Autism Co- stress for people with autism. couraged to call or text H43 Items such as weighted blan- relief assistance cell numbers: alition (GHAC). Hope For Three and GHAC kets, headphones, and sensory 346-774-7770 or 346-774combined efforts to approach items are helpful in easing dis- 5995. For resources and details relief assistance from Harvey tress. To date, Hope For three for individuals and families has received many of these regarding the GHAC, please https://www.hopefor living with autism and other types of autism related sup- visit developmental disabilities. plies and is working diligently three.org/harvey/
Oyster Creek Rotary hosts Veterans’ appreciation luncheon The Oyster Creek Rotary Club will hold its 18th annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon 11:30 a.m., Friday, November 10, 2017 at the City Centre at Quail Valley, Missouri City. Veterans are invited to attend as a guest of the Club. Please contact James Thurmond to RSVP. jhthurmond@comcast.net or 281-261-7915 Oyster Creek Rotary Club president, Judge Harrison Greg, describes the event as “a demonstration of our appreciation to veterans with individual introductions of each attending veteran in a dignified yet informal atmosphere led by Rotarian and Army veteran James Thurmond who will serve as MC.” U.S. Army combat media, SGT Timothy Stroud, will keynote the event with words of patriotism, service, and honor. He is a former combat medic in the United States Army.
October 21, 2017 | 6:00 to 11:00 PM SAFARI TEXAS RANCH • 11627 FM 1464, RICHMOND, TX
Hosted By: Fort Bend County Commissioner
Andy Meyers Host Committee Chairs: CJ & Dr. Gary Aber | Synda & Robert Frost Barbara & David Minton
Host Committee: Mayor Bill & Barbie Benton | Mayor Chuck and Marci Brawner Mayor Louis & Delores Boudreaux | Dee Koch | Ed & Tricia Krenek Lance & Michelle LaCour | Carole McCann | Mayor Evalyn Moore Mayor Allen & Jane Owen Terese Raia | Dr. Thomas & Ruby Randle Debra Ross | Cheryl & Kenneth Stalinsky | Jess & Terri Stuart Donna Kay Tucker | Mayor Mary Rose & Vic Zdunkiewicz
Music By: Texas Swing Unlimited
Attire: Western Chic
Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20, 2017
NEWS
Jennifer Chiang seeks election for County Court at Law On September 14, Sugar Land Municipal Court Associate Judge Jennifer Chiang announced that she will seek election as Judge of Fort Bend County Court at Law No. 3. The County Courts at Law handle juvenile, misdemeanor criminal, civil litigation, and probate cases. As the owner of Chiang Law Firm, PLLC and as an attorney, Chiang has significant experience practicing in all the areas of law covered by the County Courts. Chiang was unanimously appointed by Sugar Land City Council in 2015 as an Associate Judge of the Sugar Land Municipal Court. She regularly serves as judge of the Sugar Land Municipal Court and has presided over dozens of jury trials and bench trials. A lifelong Republican activist, Chiang served as Secretary and Precinct Chair of the Fort Bend Republican party, and was even named Precinct Chair of the Year in 2014. Additionally, she serves on
Chiang the board of several Fort Bend County non-profit organizations, including the Fort Bend History Association (formerly the Fort Bend County Museum Association), the Sugar Land Skeeters Foundation, and the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. In 2015, Chiang was honored by Governor Greg Abbott to be appointed to serve as a Commissioner on the Governor’s Commission for Women. Chiang credits her family for inspiring her to dedicate her life to public service. “As a fifth-generation
By BARBAR FULENWIDER The investigation of Stafford’s newly hired director of finance “turned up enough evidence that council members could not feel comfortable about her in the job,” said Mayor Leonard Scarcella after the findings were presented in a closed city council session. The outcome of that session was a unanimous vote to terminate Stafford’s newest employee who worked for the city all of three and a half days as finance director. What started Susan Magana’s downfall was finding out a Sugar Land business owner had filed criminal charges against her for $236 in diverted travel expenses that her boss claims were stolen from his company. The company that sought criminal charges against her was Sandersen Knox & Co. LLP where she worked from 2007 to 2016 as an audit manager, according to employment applications she filled out for Stafford’s director of finance job. She said on them that John Knox was her boss and a partner in the Sandersen Knox company and that she left when it was dissolved. The company owner notified Sugar Land about his allegations regarding Magana, according to Scarcella. The files were then turned over to the Sugar Land Police Department which submitted them to Fort Bend County District Attorney John Healey.
With that, Scarcella put Magana on paid leave until the allegations were investigated by Art Pertile, Stafford’s attorney. The mayor said, “There are these allegations filed against her and that complaint is under review by the DA. The issue is still out there. I personally hope she’s able to show that none of that (the allegations) have any merit. In terms of the city feeling comfortable, it’s a most unfortunate situation but we just felt we had to take that action,” which was termination. No information regarding the investigation of Magana has yet been released. What was made public was her work history that Stafford requires from all people applying for a job with the city. The former employment Magana listed began with American General Financial Group (1999 to 2000) and ML. Kerns & Associates (2000-2001) both of which are in Houston, followed by the Stafford Municipal School District (2001-2003); Fort Bend ISD, (2003-2007), Sanderson Knox in Sugar Land and Carr Riggs & Ingram, LLC (2016 to present) and also in Houston. Magana, who lives in Missouri City, graduated from Dulles High School in 1989, according to one of the employment applications she filled out for Stafford. The documents show she started her career with American General as a retirement service administrator, was
Texan, and a third-generation community activist, I have always worked to improve the lives of others in my community. I am seeking election because I know an effective Judge can make a difference in the lives of thousands of Texans across Fort Bend County.” Chiang is a lifelong resident of Fort Bend County and a graduate of Clements High School. She holds a law degree from the University of Houston Law Center, and an MBA and Bachelors in Business Administration in Economics from the University of St. Thomas. Chiang lives in Sugar Land with her husband, a disabled veteran of the U.S. Army, and their son. She is a member of Chinese Baptist Church. For more information on Jennifer Chiang for Fort Bend County Court at Law Number 3, please visit www.jenniferchiangforjudge.com or email info@jenniferciangforjudge. com.
Stafford terminates new finance director pension administrator for ML. Kerns, was finance director/ accountant at Stafford MSD, an internal auditor at FBISD and managed, assigned and oversaw a staff of auditors at Carr Riggs & Ingram LLC. On her resume that she provided to Stafford it said she has passed two of four exams for CPA certification and is “working diligently on the next two.” She also said she has a Certified Fraud Examiner Certification and is a Certified Texas School Business Specialist. She graduated from U. of H. with a bachelor of business degree in finance and prior to that earned an Associates of Arts degree at Houston Community College. In her employment applications she listed a number of software programs she is skilled in and said she maintains memberships in the Houston Area Certified Fraud Examiners, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, Texas Association of School Business Officials, Institute of Internal Auditors, Association Certified Internal Auditors and Houston Area School District Internal Auditor. In applying for Stafford’s finance director job, Magana authorized the release of personal information on a photocopy that does not have her signature but “will be valid as an original.” She also signed off on the DPS Computerized Criminal History Verification document. Neither document was redacted.
Fort Bend County Master Gardener classes begin October 10
Fort Bend County is a wonderful place to garden, our climate allows us to have beautiful gardens, both ornamental and edible almost year round. If you enjoy gardening as a hobby or would like to begin gardening the Texas Master Gardener Program may be just what you are looking for to get started or improve your gardening success while sharing your knowledge with the community. Master Gardeners are volunteers who receive in-depth
training that enables them to support and extend the reach of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s efforts by delivering sound horticultural and environmental information to residents, creating and maintaining demonstration gardens, and teaching gardening knowledge to youth. The Texas Master Gardener Program is a state wide organization that is ideal for anyone wanting to learn more about gardening and share that knowledge with others in
Fort Bend County. Each year the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners offer training classes and invite new members to join their volunteer efforts. To become a certified Master Gardener, submit an application for the 2017 training classes beginning on Tuesday, October 10, 2017. The classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m to 3:30 p.m from October 10th through November 9th at the Fort Bend County Extension Office at 1402 Band Road in
Hurricane Harvey couldn’t close the doors at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
Thanks to the dedication of its physicians and staff, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital continued serving patients throughout Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath – the only hospital in the county to remain fully operational despite the storm and the severe flooding it caused. “The ability of the hospital to remain open throughout Hurricane Harvey is the direct result of our staff’s advance planning and the sheer determination of our physicians, nursing staff and employees to make it to work and to stay here as long as necessary to continue serving our patients and the community,” said Chris Siebenaler, Houston Methodist Sugar Land CEO. “Many of them braved high waters and left their families even while their own homes were at risk to come in and care for patients. I am extremely proud of our team and the work they did that week – we actually had a number of employees living here in the hospital for several days so that we could keep our doors open.” Even on the worst day of flooding, close to 300 Houston Methodist Sugar Land employees were on-site providing care around the clock. The hospital also served as a temporary shelter for many employees and their families who were forced to evacuate their homes. Among those sheltered were over 200 families! One of the hospital’s many “Harvey Heroes” was nurse Julie Kaiser, who navigated around flooded streets, roadblocks and detours to make it in to work on Sunday, Aug. 27, determined to help her coworkers despite her concerns for home and family. The next morning, she learned that her neighborhood was subject to a mandatory evacuation. Fortunately, her family was able to make it to the hospital as well and stay on-site in the temporary shelter. Patient care assistant Michael Gonzales was another employee who braved high waters to get to work. Once on-site, he stayed for three straight days, caring for pa-
tients. Patients constantly complimented his cheerfulness and diligence. When he finally was able to go home, his father drove to the hospital to pick him up, and brought food for all his coworkers! The next morning, on his way to volunteer, Gonzales stopped by again with kolaches and doughnuts for all the nurses still working. Nurse Diann Devillier was scheduled to retire the week of the hurricane. But when she learned that her team needed help, she arrived at the hospital with a pillow and suitcase – prepared to stay for as long as needed! Nurse Jerome Amado not only worked at Houston Methodist Sugar Land during the hurricane – he also spent his days off rescuing people by boat in the Richmond, Katy and El Campo areas. As the flood waters rose, nurse Mario Saravia knew he needed to get to work to help his coworkers care for patients. But his typical route to work was flooded, and he could see the stalled cars everywhere. But he never gave up – he tried a number of different streets until he finally worked his way around the flooding and made it to the hospital. Nurses Fina Sawoska and Caroline Miller work together at Houston Methodist Sugar Land in a medical/surgical unit. When they realized they could not reach the hospital due to flooding, they decided to use their skills elsewhere and walked to the George R. Brown Convention Center, which was in desperate need of medical professionals. The next day, after the flood waters started receding, they were back at work at Houston Methodist Sugar Land! “There are many other stories just like these, of our physicians, nurses and employees doing whatever they could to get to work and help out, or in some cases, volunteering at sites around the community,” said Siebenaler. “Our people handled Harvey’s challenge exceptionally well.” Throughout the harrowing eight-day period from Aug. 25 – when Hurricane Harvey
Rosenberg. Instruction is delivered by Texas A&M University specialists on topics such as vegetables, fruits and nuts, soils, landscape design, pathology, propagation, rainwater harvesting, and more. The cost is $200 ($353 for couples sharing the curriculum). The registration deadline is September 22nd. The class size is limited and is filling fast, so reserve your space now. For more information about the 2017 class to become a Certified Master Gardener, and to obtain an application, visit https://fortbend.agrilife. org/horticulture/ and click on the Texas Master Gardener icon, or call Margo “Mac” McDowell, Program Coordinator, at 281-633-7033.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 10, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plans for Harvest Home Drive Street Dedication, Section 1 and Section 2, Pct. 3.
made landfall in south Texas – to Sept. 1, Houston Methodist Sugar Land admitted 318 patients and treated 1,146 more through its emergency department. In addition, 142 non-elective surgeries were completed and 152 patients received dialysis (about 40 percent more than usual due to many nearby clinics being closed). In total, the hospital’s dietary staff prepared nearly 6,000 meals for patients, their family members and employees. And the miracle of birth didn’t stop for severe weather; 74 “hurricane babies” were born in the hospital’s Childbirth Center. “A storm like Hurricane Harvey creates a great deal of stress and worry for everyone, but our physicians and staff made the well-being of our patients a priority,” said Siebenaler. “We are extremely grateful for their hard work and dedication during such a challenging time.” “We are very appreciative to the many organizations throughout the city, state and nation that are offering support to the hundreds of thousands who have been impacted by Harvey. We at Houston Methodist are also committed to doing everything we can to support the city, including our many thousands of employees who have sustained devastating losses to their homes and property,” said Siebenaler. Houston Methodist has created an employee relief fund to aid staff members who have suffered losses from Hurricane Harvey which has currently raised more than $7.1 million. To donate, go to bit. ly/hmharveyrelief and choose “Houston Methodist Employee Relief Fund” under the drop-down menu labeled “Please Use My Gift For.” An anonymous donor will match all additional gifts to the Employee Relief Fund dollar-fordollar, up to a total of $1 million. Visit our Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland for the latest news, events and information.
The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 10, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Long Meadow Farms, Section 37, Precinct 3, Section 40 and Section 43, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Submitted by, Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Legal Notice Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a beer and wine license by The Crawfishman LLC dba The Crawfishmans’ Boiling Point, to be located at 2601 Cartwright Rd Suite E Missouri City, Fort Bend Texas. Officers of said corporation are managing member Gregory Drouin and managing member Rachel Drouin.
INDEPENDENT • SEPTEMBER 20, 2017 • Page 7
NEWS Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital celebrates 10 Years of excellence in heart and vascular Care
In 2007, Leszek Gorski needed heart valve replacement surgery. He consulted with Mahesh Ramchandani, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Dr. Ramchandani told me this would be the first open heart surgery at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, and he asked me if I would agree to be patient No. 1,” Gorski recalled. “I said, ‘I’m always No. 1! Definitely, let’s do it!’” Gorski knew it was time to consult a specialist when he started having difficulty breathing and even lost consciousness several times. Tests revealed that Gorski’s aortic valve was abnormally small, a condition he was likely born with. Valve disease can affect any of the four heart valves and may be the result of a birth defect, aging or infections. In addition to shortness of breath and fainting, other symptoms of valve disease may include fatigue, chest pain and swelling of the ankles, feet or abdomen. For Gorski, the best treatment option was to replace his defective aortic valve with a pig valve. Ramchandani and his associate, Uttam Tripathy, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon at Houston Methodist Sugar
Land, performed the surgery with Zbigniew Wojciechowski, M.D., the anesthesiologist in charge. The surgery was a success and marked not only a return to health for Gorski, but the beginning of 10 years of leading heart and vascular care at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. “The Heart & Vascular Center really started in 2006,” said B. Keith Ellis, M.D., medical director of cardiovascular services at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. “That’s when we instituted the STEMI program,” Ellis explained. ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) heart attacks involve a complete blockage in a coronary artery and carry a high risk of death or disability. To handle STEMI heart attacks, a hospital must have a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon on call and must meet the national benchmark of treatment within 90 minutes. “To get that program up and going and deliver good results was a major accomplishment. It helped us solidify our relationships with surgeons and improve outcomes for patients,” Ellis said. Using its STEMI and openheart surgery programs as a springboard, the Heart & Vascular Center continues its pursuit of excellent care and lead-
ing-edge medicine. “We work hard to make sure patients receive the most technologically innovative care available,” Tripathy added. To that end, the Heart & Vascular Center creates a heart team consisting of a general cardiologist, an interventional cardiologist, a cardiovascular anesthesiologist and a cardiovascular surgeon for every patient who needs open heart surgery. “The team discusses each case and decides the best treatment strategy, so patients aren’t getting just one doctor’s opinion, but are accessing a collaboration of doctors across various specialties,” Tripathy explained. “It really ensures that patients get the latest and most evidence-based treatment strategy.” Plus, the doctors at the Houston Methodist Heart & Vascular Center at Sugar Land work closely with their colleagues within Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center, creating a supportive and collaborative environment that ensures top-notch patient care. “We’ve grown our expertise not only by recruiting more surgeons of the highest quality but by adding the intensivist program to deliver the best postoperative care,” said Ramchandani, now vice chair
(L-R) Uttam Tripathy, M.D., B. Keith Ellis, M.D., Mahesh Ramchandani, M.D. and section chief for cardiovascular surgery at the Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center. Intensivists — doctors specializing in critical care in the intensive care unit (ICU) — ensure that postoperative patients and the critically ill get round-theclock medical care adapted to the unique needs of ICU patients — typically only found
in the largest teaching hospitals. Patients with the following medical conditions receive innovative care at the Heart & Vascular Center: •Acute stroke •Cardiac arrhythmias •Chronic total occlusion •Congenital heart defects •Coronary artery disease •Peripheral arterial disease
•Pulmonary embolus To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist. org/spg or call 281.274.7500 to find a doctor in your area. To see HML’s team of cardiologists, surgeons, specialists and support staff in action, visit bit.ly/heartvideo-sl. -
Imperial touts ‘Autumn Aromas’ giveaway From pumpkin spice to apple cider, Fall scents could net homebuyers holiday cents when they visit Imperial in October. During the Autumn Aromas giveaway, scent machines will fill each of the Sugar Land community’s seven model homes throughout the month. Visitors who guess the scents correctly will be entered into a drawing to win a $1,000 VISA gift card just in time for the holidays. “Our Autumn Aromas giveaway is a fun way to introduce our fantastic home designs to prospective buyers,” said Shay Shafie, general manager for Imperial.
“Our award-winning builders also have really gone the extra mile, decking out their models with the latest fall home fashions, so you can pick up tips for decorating your current home or imagine life in one of ours.” Models will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Four builders including Meritage Homes, Partners in Building, Sitterle Homes and Gracepoint Homes currently offer homes in Imperial. Designs range from luxury Brownstones to high-end custom homes priced from the $450,000s to more than $1
million. Located on the site of the historic Imperial Sugar Company, Imperial is a pedestrianfriendly community offering easy access to Sugar Land attractions like the Smart Financial Centre, as well as activities closer to home such as baseball games at Constellation Field and a weekly farmers market. For more information, visit www.imperialsugarland.com Right, Visitors to model homes in Imperial will be able to guess the fall scents for a chance to win a $1,000 VISA in the Autumn Aromas promotion this October.
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