DeanForJudge.com Early to Nov.2,2,2018 2018 Earlyvoting: voting: Oct. Feb. 22 20–March Primary Day: Tuesday, 6 ElectionElection Day : Tuesday, Nov. March 6, 2018 Political Ad Paid for by Dean Hrbacek for Judge Campaign, Kathy Luckenbach, Treasurer, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.
VOL 11 No. 40
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2018
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Stephen F. Austin High Marching Band & Angels Dance Team win first place at Marching Festival S. F. Austin High School Marching Band, Angels Dance Team, & Color Guard performed this year’s show “Mary,” and won first Place at the Friendswood High School Marching Band Festival in Friendswood on Sept. 29. This is the 4th year in a row that the SFA Band has won this prestigious award. The show is very popular with its playful musical selections that bring the audience through a musical and visual journey of the story of Mary Poppins. This was proven by SFA winning Outstanding Visual Performance, Outstanding Musical Performance, Outstanding General Effect, as well For more information on the AHS band, go to http://www.sfaband. the overall First Place Finish. Below, Photo: Nancy Lubrano org/. Photo: Deb Guillory Charkalis
Cullinan Park Conservancy hosts Picnic For the Park
Betty Baitland, Luncheon Committee; Gary Tuma, Conservancy Board President; Nancy Olson, Luncheon Committee; Susie Goff, Luncheon Committee; Angie Wierzbicki, Conservancy Executive Director, and Gay Thompson, Luncheon Committee take a break from planning the event at River Pointe Church. Photo Staging: Diane Amundson, Festivities Turn Key Events. Photo Credit: Mary Favre Cullinan Park Conservancy will host its second annual fundraising event, the “Picnic for the Park” luncheon, presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, on Friday, Oct. 19, at 11:30 a.m in the auditorium at River Pointe Church in Richmond. The event’s keynote speaker aims to provide some wonder and awe – famed outdoorsman Mike Matson. Matson holds two Guinness World Records for skippering a three-man rowboat more than 3,200 miles across the
Atlantic Ocean. At the luncheon, CPC will also celebrate Conservancy catalyst Ann Hamilton as this year’s Nina Cullinan Honoree. The Nina Cullinan award is given in recognition each year to an outstanding supporter of the Park and Conservancy. The photography contest is back, underwritten again by Johnson Development. Winners will be revealed at the luncheon. Gold sponsors include BGE, Westin Homes and Absolutely Focus Media. Many other community businesses and individuals have stepped up to sponsor as well. Net proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales and a bid board will go towards improvements at the Park. Planned improvements to Cullinan Park over the next couple years, pending fundraising efforts, include additional trail development, a canoe/kayak launch, a children’s nature exploration area, expanded parking and
other enhancements. Construction for enhancements from the first $1 million raised by the Conservancy is set to start in the fall of 2018. These include a permanent restroom, overlook on the east side of White Lake, selective clearing and more. The Conservancy was created in 2010 to advocate for, enhance and protect the natural beauty of Cullinan Park for all. Joseph S. and Lucie H. Cullinan Park (aka Cullinan Park) consists of 754 acres, just north of Sugar Land Regional Airport on Highway 6. The one of a kind, bluegreen oasis in the middle of rapidly growing suburbs provides habitat for all manner of wildlife, while delivering a respite for human visitors, too. Sponsorships and individual tickets for the luncheon are available at www. cullinanparkconservancy.org. Or call Executive Director Angie Wierzbicki at 281-6167860 for more information.
Baylor Scott & White, Memorial Hermann merge The boards of Baylor Scott & White Health and Memorial Hermann Health System have signed a letter of intent to merge into a combined system to further strengthen communities, advance the health of Texans and transform the delivery of healthcare. As two of the most comprehensive not-for-profit health systems in Texas, Baylor Scott & White Health and Memorial Hermann, both founded as faith-based organizations, share similar missions and values. Equally important, they share like-minded, forward-thinking visions for the future. This proposed combined health system is positioned to become a national model for integrated, consumer-centric, costeffective care. See MERGER, Page 3
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018
Fort Bend Boys Choir founder gets Music Leadership Award
Adams
the
Elect Frank J. Fraley - Democrat For 240th District Court Judge Fort Bend County, Texas
The Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas is proud to announce that William R. Adams, Founder and Artistic Director, received the 2018 Music Leadership Award from the Houston Chapter of the international music fraternity Sigma Alpha Iota. The Music Leadership Award recognizes a member of the community who has contributed to and furthered the development and quality of music in the greater Houston area. This award has been given out yearly since 1969 when Ima Hogg was the first honoree. For consideration, recipients should be respected by their peers and hold a unique position in the music community. Throughout the years, other notable music educators include Robert Bennett, Ruth Red, Sally Schott, Ara Carpetyan, Virginia Babikian, David Ashley White, David Gockley and Betsy Cook Weber. For more information about the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas , call (281) 240-3800; or visit www.fbbctx.org for the latest information.
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Fraley with Don Bankston, seated.
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INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018 • Page 3
Business leaders support FBISD Bond Proposal By KERI SCHMIDT The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Team (GAT) advocates and serves as proxy on behalf of the membership on issues affecting job creation, economic development and the overall vitality of the region. Issues that impact the interests of the greater Fort Bend business community, economic development within Fort Bend County or members of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce members directly are given consideration. After careful and thoughtful analysis, the Government Affairs Team recommended support of the 2018 FBISD (FBISD) Bond Proposal at the September 18th Fort Bend Chamber Board of Directors meeting. They further recommended that the Chamber educate its members on the bond proposal and work to enlist their active support and influence. The Board of Directors passed the resolution unanimously. On August 13, 2018, the FBISD Board of Trustees unanimously called for a $992.6 million bond referendum to be held on November 6, 2018. If approved, these bonds will be used to address capital needs related to new construction, enhance the safety and security of our children’s schools across the District, make renovations to address maintenance and adequacy for all schools, as well as provide for the District’s transportation and technology needs. The $992.6 million November 6, 2018 bond referendum supports building and improving safe classrooms and learning spaces and includes: •$403.4 million for new construction, rebuilds and additions, including the construction of three elementary campuses, design of one middle school,
Merger From Page 1 “This is about two missiondriven organizations – both committed to making safe, high-quality healthcare more convenient and affordable – building something transformative together,” said Jim Hinton, CEO, Baylor Scott & White Health. “We must lead the change in our industry, while insisting we continue to fulfill our unwavering commitments to meeting the needs of all Texans.” The health systems, both nationally recognized and dedicated to improving access and continuity of care, serve as vibrant, economic engines in more than 30 Texas counties, employing more than 73,000 across the state. Both have strong ties to the academic medical community, and together will be positioned to expand those affiliations to advance medical training and research programs, while continuing to attract and retain the very best talent. “Together, we believe we will be able to accelerate our commitments to make care more consumer centric; grow our capabilities to manage the health of populations; and bend the unsustainable healthcare cost curve in the state,” said Chuck Stokes, president and CEO, Memorial Hermann. “Through this combined system, we have a unique opportunity to reinvent healthcare and make a profound difference in the lives of millions of Texans.” The details of the letter of intent include:
Keri Schmidt construction of one high school, the rebuild of Lakeview Elementary and Meadows Elementary, and additions at Madden Elementary and Neill Elementary •$396.5 million to address life-cycle deficiencies and facility adequacy across the District •$14.9 million to fund safety and security upgrades and investments •$10.6 million for transportation •$142.6 million for technology •$19.7 million for future land purchases •$5 million program contingency As the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County, the chamber recognizes the critical and essential roles strong public schools have in the economic development and vitality of the region. Investing in high quality education provides our students with the necessary tools to become productive citizens. Additionally, an investment in FBISD will address the capital improvements needed to build and improve the safe classrooms and learning spaces that will impact students’ lives for many years to come. The development of this bond follows an extensive Facilities Master Planning process that began in January 2018. •Unified Board: A unified board will be comprised of an equal number of appointees from both organizations. Ross McKnight, the current chair of the Baylor Scott & White Holdings Board of Trustees, will serve as the first chair of the proposed combined system’s board. A vice chair, selected by the Memorial Hermann Health System Board of Directors, will be named prior to closing and will become chair at the end of McKnight’s two-year term. •Leadership: Jim Hinton, CEO of Baylor Scott & White Health, will be the CEO of the proposed combined system and will be joined in the proposed Office of the CEO by Chuck Stokes, president and CEO of Memorial Hermann and Pete McCanna, president of Baylor Scott & White Health. Other members of the executive leadership team will be comprised of leaders from both Baylor Scott & White Health and Memorial Hermann. •Operations: The proposed combined system will have executive and support staff based in Austin, Dallas, Houston and Temple. •Name: The proposed combined system will have a new name to be determined before closing; however, Baylor Scott & White Health and Memorial Hermann will continue to operate under their strong, highly regarded brands in their respective service areas. “Baylor Scott & White was founded as a Christian Ministry more than 100 years ago; ever since, it has
NEWS
This comprehensive due diligence will ensure that FBISD provides the best possible learning environment and worthwhile opportunities to its 75,000 students. Further, each will receive a strong academic foundation, and develop the strong character and skills for lifelong success. The bond initiative represents the first of a twophase, six-year plan to address capital needs of the District, which is expected to serve 85,000 students by the year 2027. FBISD continues to have one of the lowest tax rates among peer districts and a low debt per student ratio. A successful bond election will not cause any immediate change in the existing tax burden; however, a potential three penny increase (not anticipated until 2020) may be needed during the duration of the three-year program. Most projections show that the tax rate will not be any higher than the 2016 rate and no more than one cent higher. One cent on the tax rate represents about $40 per year for the average home owner in the FBISD jurisdiction. Even so, FBISD would still maintain the lowest projected tax rates and debt per student ratio compared to other districts. Please join the Fort Bend Chamber in supporting the 2018 FBISD Bond Proposal to keep our schools and community strong by building and improving safe classrooms and learning spaces for our children! If you would like to be an active participant in Strong Schools, Strong Community Committee, please contact the committee by email to: strongschoolsfbisd@gmail. com.
Lamar CISD’s Jackson Elementary named National Blue Ribbon School
Lamar Consolidated Independent School District’s Jackson Elementary was selected as a 2018 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Jackson Elementary is one of only 349 schools across the nation and 24 schools in Texas to be recognized with this honor in 2018. The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Founded in 1982, U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where exemplary progress has been made toward closing achievement gaps among subpopulations while maintaining high achievement levels among all students. Jackson’s selection is based on its exemplary progress on closing the achievement gap. On November 7-8, 2018, the Secretary and the Department of Education will celebrate Jackson Elementary and other public and private school honorees at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.: Visit ED.gov/programs/nclbbrs for more information on the National Blue Ribbon Schools program.
Jackson Elementary Principal Deana Gonzales and Assistant Principal Tracy Mills
(Keri Schmidt is the President & CEO of Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.)
advanced health and driven change in North and Central Texas,” said Ross McKnight, chair of the Baylor Scott & White Holdings Board of Trustees. “This proposed combination starts the next chapter in the legacies of service and innovation for both systems. It will not only make a positive difference in the lives of millions here, it will become a national model.” Together, the two systems include 68 hospital campuses, more than 1,100 care delivery sites, nearly 14,000 employed, independent and academic physicians and two health plans; and they currently record nearly 10 million patient encounters annually. “Memorial Hermann has proudly served the Greater Houston area for more than 110 years with nationally recognized, high-quality patient care,” said Deborah Cannon, chair of the Memorial Hermann Health System Board of Directors. “Our mutual history of providing accessible and leading-edge healthcare for all people has laid a strong foundation for our shared vision to build a future together for the benefit of all Texans.” With approval of the letter of intent, the two organizations have entered into a period of exclusive negotiations, due diligence and the standard regulatory review processes. The next stage in the transaction – a definitive agreement – is anticipated to be complete in 2019. For more information, visit www. TransformingHealthTogether. com.
Fr. Drew Wood, left, with Suzanne Barto, Principal, SLCS
GRANDPARENTS DAY. More than 750 special guests were on hand at St. Laurence Catholic School, Friday, Sept. 28th, to take part in the Annual Grandparents Day Celebration. The day began with a beautiful Mass led by Father Drew Wood, Pastor, at St. Laurence Catholic Church. The church was filled with grandparents, special friends, faculty, and students. Following the Mass, grandparents and special guests were treated to a musical performance by the students of the Early Childhood Campus. After a light breakfast in the school gym, the entire group enjoyed a musical program by the elementary and middle school students, also featuring the school band and choir. This special event was capped off with grandparents visiting the classrooms that were proudly showcased by the students.
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018
GUEST COLUMN
LETTER
Show true spirit of Hinduism
It’s time to vote By FLOYD EMERY Have you ever given thought to the meaning of this word and its profound impact on how we are governed? I believe the word VOTE is an acronym for the phrase “Voice Of The Electorate.” Accordingly, unless we VOTE our voices go unheard and our goals for our neighborhood, city, state and federal governments are without voice. We have all heard the statement that one vote counts and it should not be ignored. The vote to admit Texas into the Union in 1845 was ratified when one senator changed his vote from “no” to “yes.” In 1948, one vote at the Texas Convention elected Lyndon B. Johnson US Senator over ex Gov. Coke Stevens. More locally, several positions for the Missouri City, City Council have been won or lost by less than a handful of votes. When Mark Twain commented on the importance of 1 vote he replied “A nation is only an individual multiplied.” I believe this also applies to our City and State elections. My commentary here is not to solicit nor endorse any person or position. Rather it is a call to all citizens to fulfill their civic duty to VOTE in every city, state and federal election. When looking at the statistics from our recent local city elections it is obvious that we are lax or even derelict in
Emery fulfilling our responsibilities as citizens. Further, it is incumbent that we guard against apathy or complacency and not allow these inactions to have a negative impact on our Voter turnout. In a more direct and personal challenge, we have been given the right to elect our representatives and not to participate in this process overlooks what our country and citizens have had to endure and sacrifice to secure this right. When addressing the issue of voting, Patriotic Poet Roger W. Hancock stated “A vote not cast is a vote against your preference.” So, if we fail to exercise this right we have only ourselves to blame when conditions and events do not align with our preferences or choices. Our officials have made it efficient and straightforward
to vote. There are several methods to register to vote including an on-line option. We have early voting options at numerous local locations and absentee voting options that allow us to bypass any long lines on voting day or to vote if we should be away from our home. Expanded poll times provide a range of times that is conducive to the schedules of workers, parents and retired individuals. Bottom line, voting has been made easier and less time consuming so there is no logical reason not to vote. We are currently approaching an election to determine who will represent us at the City, State and Federal levels. Now is the time to reverse the trend of low voter turnout, but that can only be accomplished by we the electorate. We must get involved and accept our civic responsibility by voting in the very important upcoming Missouri City November election for Mayor and two at large City Council members. We must reverse the trend of low Voter turnout. ……See you at the Polls……. Emery is a resident of Quail Valley in Missouri City, the current Missouri City Council Member for District D and Board Chairman of the Houston Galveston Area Council. (H-GAC)
MIKE’S MONOLOGUE
He’s my daddy
By MICHAEL GRANTO Anyone who had had children knows that there are times when something happens that makes your blood run cold, when you learn something that makes your blood run cold. It usually happens with no warning, and it makes anything else you’re handling look like small potatoes. I was a district manager for a large fast food corporation, and I was in my office going over monthly P&L statements. Now, this was well before Excel and personal computers were common, so a lot of our work was done with a wax tablet and a stylus. Okay, maybe wax tablet and stylus is an exaggeration, but there WAS a lot of drudge work when those P&L statements came in. When the phone rang, I reached for it, answering it as I usually did, with my last name. Sometimes, it probably sounded a bit gruff, but we didn’t get a lot of feel-good training on phone etiquette, and anyway, if YOU were calling ME, it meant you wanted something, or wanted me to do something, and in either case it represented a diversion of my effort and attention at a time when I could ill afford it. It was my wife on the other end, and what she said made monthly P&Ls fade quickly. She said, “Mike, I can’t find Mark.” Mark was our youngest son, and if memory serves me rightly, he was about two years old, maybe a couple of months more, at the time. He could recognize his house, but he could not have given his address. I asked her to tell me what happened. She said she was sitting on the front stoop (it was too small to be called a “porch”) with Mark, when the phone rang. She went in to answer it, keeping an eye on Mark through the kitchen window. (There were no cellphones at the time.) She says it wasn’t a long phone call; in fact, she had
Granto cut it short when she couldn’t see Mark. She went outside, but couldn’t see him anywhere, so she called me. I did the usual Dad thing, and said, “Call the police. I’m on the way home.” One thing I did NOT do was castigate her for being careless. She was more scared than I was, and she WAS his mom. On the way home, I tried running various scenarios through my head. If the same thing happened today, I would have been terrified, because when kids go missing today, if you don’t find them in three or four hours, you may as well prepare for a funeral. Then, I was thinking about which of his local friends’ houses he might have wandered to, or whether he had wandered into the nearby field. He loved animals even then, and if he found bugs or frogs, he’d amuse himself quietly for hours. It took a very short time for me to get home, and when I did, she said that she had tried walking north along our street, and asking if anyone had seen a kid in diapers walking along, but no one had. I asked if she had called the police, and she said she had, and given a description of Mark, but they had no information about him. I asked her to call again. When she hung up from the police, she said they had a kid at the station, and that I should come down and see if it was Mark. I got in the car, and headed for the police station. When I got there, the desk sergeant directed me down a hallway and to a room. I don’t
think it was an office, because what I remember was a pretty large group of toys along one wall, below the windows. Sitting among the toys, quietly playing, was Mark. The two policemen who joined me in that room were both watching Mark very closely. At some point, Mark looked up, and smiled, and said, “Take me to my house.” One of the policemen asked Mark, “Who is this man?” Mark turned to the officer, looked him right in the eye, and said, “He’s my daddy.” They needed to be sure he belonged to me. That was enough for both policemen. One nodded to me, and I held out my arms, and he came straight to me, so I could pick him up. Those words, “He’s my daddy” were just incredibly sweet to hear. Up north, boys quit calling their fathers “daddy” about the time they get a twowheeled bicycle, so you’re not a “daddy for long.” But whatever other titles you may garner along the way, boss, sergeant, husband; none are quite as sweet as “daddy.” (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.)
To the Editor: There seems to be a misunderstanding on part of some leaders/activists of Hindu organization. I am Hindu and an active community member of the Fort Bend County for over 25 years. I have been to the local Temples, Churches, Mosques, Schools, City Halls and public forums to promote the goodwill of the Indian American community. With the mid-term election around the corner, in an earnest effort to invite Indo American voters to GOP camp, Fort Bend Republican Party leaders ran an advertisement with Ganeshji and Elephant – the symbol of Abraham Lincoln’s Republican Party. Also offered a choice between Elephant (Republican) and Donkey
as a kinder, gentler and peaceloving community. We all have worked hard and played by the rules to succeed. Ostensibly it has worked well for all at home, work and in business. Certainly, we must participate in civic and political affairs of our communities with dignity and decency. But let us not allow any individual or organization to misguide our community’s pride and privilege. America has been good to all of us. The freedom of speech, religion as well as the life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are invaluable virtues of this great nation. Let us have a sense of gratitude. We are better; we can do better! Naren Patel Sugar Land
INSURANCE
Home insurance renewal explained
By BASIL HOUSEWRIGHT If you own a house, homeowner’s insurance is a necessity. Not only do you need it to protect your home and possessions against damage and theft, your mortgage lender will also require that you carry it. But it’s not enough to simply have coverage; you need to have the right coverage. A good time to review your policy is when you are renewing it. Insurance companies have the right to change your policy upon renewal and if you aren’t really paying attention to it, you could end up with some surprises. A few questions to ask yourself and your agent when you are renewing your homeowner’s insurance policy are: Am I underinsured? Insurance Industry surveys estimate about two out of every three homes in America are underinsured. When purchasing coverage a lot of people take into account the market value of their home and not the replacement cost. What if your home was picked up and moved to a less desirable area? While the cost of building the house would be similar, the market value would be very different because of the neighborhood. If your home is insured based on its market value that leaves you at risk of having inadequate coverage. In the case of a total rebuild many homeowners end up paying a lot of money out of pocket because they had inadequate home insurance coverage. Is my deductible too low? Your deductible is the amount you have to pay before your insurance kicks in. Many insurance companies are starting to provide premium reductions for consumers with higher policy deductibles. Consumers should ask their agent what kind of premium credit they would get if they moved to a higher deductible. A rule of thumb is to accept a higher deductible when the increase in deductible divided by the premium savings is twelve years or less. Has my deductible changed? A growing number of insurance companies are changing
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.
12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
(Democrats). To me, it appears the good intent got lost in an emotional religious fervor. The lesson learned for all parties – if possible, try not to mix religion and politics. Especially it is prudent for the religious entities to refrain from the fray of the politics even though one feels omnipotent. More importantly, Indian Americans need to manifest a true spirit of Hinduism with compassion and understanding. Such moral high road will help differentiate Indian American community and will not classify us with the other terrorizing religious organizations. Let us make sure Hindus are not perceived as fanatics. Fortunately, over the last 40 to 50 years, Indian Americans have established themselves
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Housewright policy deductibles from a flat deductible to a percentage deductible. Let’s say you have a $500,000 home and a $1,000 deductible. Your insurance company changes your deductible to 1%. This means you now have a $5,000 deductible (1% of $500,000) when filing a claim. While companies can’t change your deductible in the middle of a policy period, they can do so upon renewal. Consumers should also be aware that some companies have begun implementing higher deductibles for certain types of losses, such as wind or hail. In our area a 2% wind/ hail deductible is becoming a marketplace standard. Does my policy cover claims for personal injury? With the advent of social media personal injury claims are becoming prevalent. Personal injury which is in addition to and different from Personal Liability refers to things such as libel, defamation or invasion of privacy. What does this have to do with homeowner’s insurance you might ask? While you might be careful about what you do or say online, your child may not. Adding this coverage to your home insurance typically costs less than $50 a year. Are my valuables covered? Most home insurance policies limit the amount of coverage for stolen jewelry to $1,500 after your deductible is applied. If you have jewelry worth more than $1,500, you can do what’s called “scheduling the jewelry.” Scheduling personal property simply means adding coverage for high-value items. Depending on the company it may or may not be available. A specialty jewelry insurance company is our suggestion for this coverage which typically only cost you $15 to $20 per thousand dollars of coverage. Other valuables such as cash, gold, bullion, guns, etc.… may
be limited as well. Read the Special Limits section of your policy thoroughly. Is my homeowner’s personal liability limit too low? Every homeowner’s policy has two types of coverage: liability and property. Property coverage includes your house and furniture. Personal Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured and you were negligent. Getting the maximum amount of personal liability insurance makes a lot of sense. Going from $100,000 liability to $500,000 is typically only an extra $50 to $100 a year. What’s more, personal liability coverage is not just for what happens in your home, it follows you wherever you go. You should also consider additional excess personal liability coverage by purchasing a personal umbrella insurance policy which is typically sold in $1M increments for a few hundred dollars a year. Your insurance agent should contact you before your policy’s renewal date to discuss renewing or alternate options with other insurance programs. A local Independent Insurance Agent typically will have multiple insurance companies’ which they represent to offer. When reviewing the renewal offer and alternate proposals don’t be afraid to ask questions. Bring up any new occurrences that could warrant adjusting your coverage, such as home additions and/or enhancements and expensive personal property or jewelry purchases. Review the renewal packages closely, especially the cover page. The cover page typically provides a summary of your policy and notes anything that has changed. Make sure the coverage is still meeting your needs. You go to your doctor every year to get a checkup. It’s no different with your homeowner’s insurance. Basil Housewright is manager of Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc a local Independent Insurance Agency operating in Sugar Land since 1991. He can be reached at (281) 277-7800, Fax (281) 277-7801, E-Mail – basil@texansinsure.com. Visit https:// www.texansinsure.com.
NOTICE OF MEDICAL PRACTICE
On November 1, 2018, Christian Peccora, MD will no longer be practicing at U.S. Anesthesia Partners of Texas, P.A. / Pain Doctor (USAP). Dr. Peccora will begin work at a new practice on November 1, 2018 that is located at 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 325, Sugar Land, Texas 77478; phone 713-337-7246. If you wish to obtain a copy of your medical records or have your records transferred, please complete a Medical Records Release form available at: www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/files/agency/ hb300_auth_form.pdf. You may also obtain an electronic copy of your records by visiting HealthMark Group at: medrelease.healthmark-group.com/360.
INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018 • Page 5
NEWS
Missouri City budget includes funding for strategic priorities
By BARBARA FULENWIDER Missouri City Manager Anthony Snipes presented a $139 million budget to city council members that was “conservative and balanced.â€? City council unanimously approved the budget on Sept. 17 and approved a property tax rate of 63 cents per $100 valuation on Oct. 1. Funding for all the priorities would require an additional $42.2 million and that could not be achieved without a tax rate increase, he said. Snipes told council that the budget took into account the city’s strategic priorities and was balanced with no borrowing and minimal impact to service levels to the community. “I asked departments to provide reductions ranging from 3% to 5% that would be necessary to address city council’s strategic priorities,â€? he said. The city’s workforce complied and came up with $2.1 million in reductions. The city manager said in his 2019 annual budget letter to council that the cuts were made in IT, eet replacements costs, oďŹƒce supplies, training and conference attendance and delays in sta certiďŹ cations. The number of funding requirements and priorities requested in the budget were for ďŹ re apparatus and ďŹ re station 6 design, MUD study plan, city hall landscaping and Texas Parkway and Cartwright beautiďŹ cation maintenance. Also, health insurance coverage for employees, which has increased 15%; replacement of critical IT and eet equipment; city drainage, management, infrastructure and sidewalks, etc. Other strategic focus priori-
Snipes ties approved by council were investing and improving the city’s animal services; developing and recommending a capital improvement projects plan; identifying resources to address needs of the economic development plan, and funding for the four expiring COPS grant police oďŹƒcers. Other budget priorities are a market study on employee compensation and beneďŹ ts and address gaps in employee retirement funds. Missouri City employees compensation is studied once in 2 years, not every year. This year the consultant’s recommendation has been included in the budget. Missouri City now has 369.5 authorized employees and include the police department with 148.2, which is the most; ďŹ re and rescue, 79; public works, 41; parks 19; development services, 19; ďŹ nance, 17, and technology and innovation, 10. Personnel costs were put at $35,105,692 in the FY 2019 budget for a 5% increase. The city continues its ďŹ nancial excellence and stewardship, Snipes said. Snipes alluded to the constant comparison of Missouri
City with Sugar Land and Pearland. “We are in the same region, but we are not Sugar Land or Pear Land. We are Missouri City,� Snipes said. There are many important distinctions among the cities. Missouri City’s property tax base is $6.2 billion. Sugar Land has property tax base of $ 12.98 billion and Pearland has $9.79 billion. Missouri City’s tax rate is 63 cents and Pearland’s 71 cents. Sugar Land has a $32.7 cent tax rate. “They buy down their tax rate based on their sales tax capacity. Citizens have voted to pay that down,� Snipes said. Sugar Land’s sales tax revenue is $37 million, Pearland’s $22.85 million, while Missouri City’s sales tax revenue is $8.568 million. One percent of its sales tax goes to Metro, which the other two cities are not part of. Missouri City has 1,664 businesses, Sugar Land has 4,219 businesses and Pearland has 3,000. Sugar Land has $245 million budget, Pearland has $354 million budget and Missouri City’s budget is $139 million. Sugar Land Municipal Utility Districts’ debt for 2017-18 is $111 million, that of Missouri City MUDs is $477 million, while Pearland MUDs’ debt is $7.7 million Missouri City has 33 MUDs, Sugar Land has 21 and Pearland has 16. This year $1.9 billion worth of property was under protest in Missouri City, unlike any other year, resulting in a drop in revenue.
Child Advocates of Fort Bend welcomes new board members
Bearden breaks ground at Rosenberg Business Park
From left: Ted Garcia, Rosenberg Development Corp.; Kristin Weiss, Central Fort Bend Chamber; Darrell Himly, Rosenberg Fire Department; John Maresh, Rosenberg City Manager; John Herne, RDC; Ian Knox, Rosenberg Planning; Ron Thigpen, RS Construction; Shane Thigpen, TRS Construction; Ken Schreiber, Century A/C; Renata Morgan, Century A/C; Randy Vance, Vance A/C; Steve Darnell, Fuller Realty; Bret Gardella, Rosenberg Economic Development; Bill Hall, Bearden Investments; Stewart Smith, Fuller Realty; Mayor William T. Benton, Rosenberg. A strategic investment by the City of Rosenberg and the Rosenberg Development Corporation (RDC) is about to start yielding dividends. Bearden Investments broke ground Tuesday, September 25, 2018 on the ďŹ rst development in the 184-acre, deed-restricted Rosenberg Business Park located between Danziger and Bryan Roads on FM 2218. The Bearden project will consist of three buildings and at total buildout will encompass more than 105,000 square feet. Century A/C Supply will anchor the main building, a 61,440 square-foot oďŹƒce and warehouse. The other two buildings, 26,000 and 18,000 square feet, respectively, will be subleased by Bearden. TRS Construction, Inc. is the General Contractor. The project, which is scheduled for
completion in summer of 2019, will have a mix of grade-level service center oďŹƒce and warehouse spaces of 8,600 square feet and up, as well as 28-foot clearance height, and dock high distribution spaces of 19,200 square feet and up. “Bearden Investments is excited to bring this mix of oďŹƒce and warehouse development to the busy Rosenberg market,â€? said Bearden Investments Vice President Bill Hall. “Along with providing the new location for Century A/C Supply, our goal for the project is to oer quality lease space to local business owners who prefer to oďŹƒce near where they live rather than commuting to Houston. It will also present options for regional or national distribution branches with easy access to US59/I-69 with the amenities of a modern, ďŹ re-sprinkled dock-high distribution facility.â€?
2DN%HQG 0HGLFDO &HQWHU :HGQHVGD\ 2FWREHU SP SP -DFNVRQ 6W 5LFKPRQG VW )ORRU &RQIHUHQFH &HQWHU New board members, shown L to R with Board President Denny Adelung (3rd from right) are: Dave Johnston, Tom Duy, Mike Smith, Naushad Kermally and Glen Austin. Child Advocates of Fort Bend has elected seven new board members in 2018 and recognizes three board members who have completed their ďŹ rst year of service. “We’ve seen a rapid rise in demand for our services and as we work to enhance and expand our services to meet the growing need, we’re bringing in new talent. These new board members bring a wealth of experience in telecommu- (L to R): Barkley Peschel, Child Advocates of Fort Bend CEO nications, ďŹ nancial services, Ruthanne Meord, Regina Morales and Mark Lapeyrouse. law, economic development, Not shown is Eileen Akerson. real estate, project manage“Because we anticipate this ment, and strategic manage- pacity constraints,â€? said Mefford. trend will continue with even ment,â€? stated Child Advocates “The urgent increase in need further increases in the demand of Fort Bend CEO Ruthanne is attributable to a variety of for services, we undertook an Meord. factors including growth withextensive study in 2017 to un“We’ve experienced exin Fort Bend County, stresses derstand the resources we will tremely high growth in every on families, legislation that reneed going forward. We are one of our services – forensic quires the interviewing of all working with the Board to deinterviews, therapy, and court appointed advocacy and fami- child victims to be conducted velop a Blueprint for Growth ly services. We are challenged by an accredited Children’s for the next decade with exby this inux of children need- Advocacy Center, generation- panded services, board, sta, ing help and are experiencing al abuse in families, substance physical plant and resources. a waitlist for children, calls for abuse, mental illness and the We remain committed to doround-the-clock availability increase in human traďŹƒcking ing everything in our power by our sta and space and ca- and sexual exploitation of vul- so that we never have to turn nerable children online.â€? a child away.â€?
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As part of a joint venture between the City of Rosenberg, the RDC, and the developer, the RDC and the City of Rosenberg committed to fund $3.4 million dollars to extend the water and sanitary sewer lines to the site. Bearden subsequently purchased the 7.6 acres from the project developer, Fuller Realty, in 2015 as a result. “We’re appreciative of Bearden Investments choosing Rosenberg to build Class A Commercial space,â€? said RDC Executive Director Bret Gardella. “Since they already have one tenant (Century A/C) ready to expand here it shows the desire and demand for our City. Rosenberg is growing and this is the ďŹ rst of many opportunities coming here.â€? Fuller Realty has sold 111 of the 184 acres. For information about Rosenberg Business Park, call Bill Smith at 713-854-6942.
Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018
AUTOMOBILE: Nissan Rogue Sport By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2018.5 Nissan Rogue Sport shares the Rogue name, platform and numerous advanced safety and security features and also stands on its own as a stylish, nimble, funto-drive compact SUV. While Rogue continues to appeal to young families, the Rogue Sport ďŹ lls a need for those who need more space and versatility than the average sedan for everyday urban use and social activities. Additional changes include a standard automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning and rear cross traďŹƒc alert for all grades; intelligent cruise control added as standard on SL grade and to
The Rogue Sport exterior also has a large rear opening, LED boomerang-shaped taillights and rear spoiler. Other exterior details include black wheel arches and roof molding, body-color outside mirrors with available integrated turn signals and heated outside mirrors. Also oered is a power sliding moonroof and roof rails. The 5-passenger Rogue Sport includes a standard 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with rear seat center armrest and rear seat heating/cooling center console vents. Also available are an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated
the optional technology package, and the front grille got a minor redesign to accommodate the radar/front camera. The Rogue Sport has a 2.3inch shorter wheelbase and a 12.1-inch shorter overall length than Rogue, helping make it more maneuverable in city traďŹƒc. There is up to 61.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the 2nd row seat folded. The Rogue Sport got a sophisticated headlight design with LED signature daytime running lights, halogen headlights with auto o function, and available fog lights. Also available are LED low-beam headlights with auto on/off function and high beam assist.
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view monitor. The Rogue Sport, as worthy of the “Sportâ€? name, offers balanced dynamic performance – combining a responsive, eďŹƒcient 2.0-liter engine with nimble handling and cornering. Rogue Sport utilizes the same CFM (Common Module Family) platform as Rogue, and both vehicles are available in a choice of front-wheel drive or an available Intelligent AllWheel Drive system. Every 2018.5 Rogue Sport comes with a standard 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder rated at 141 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 147 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The suspension up front is independent-strut with stabilizer bar and twin-tube shock absorbers and multi-link independent rear suspension with twin-tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. Four-wheel vented disc
brakes with anti-lock braking and electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are also standard. The 2018.5 Nissan Rogue Sport comes in three models – S, SV and SL, each in a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The test drive Nissan Rogue Sport was the SL model and has heated front seats, around view monitor, 19-inch aluminumalloy wheels with 225/45R19 all-season tires, fog lights, heated outside mirrors, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-wrapped shift knob. The Rogue is a good size compact SUV. The test drive model was all wheel drive, handled well, and was a good size inside. It was also well designed. The 2018.5 Nissan Sport SL AWD retails for $28,540. Options and the destination charge increased that to $31,780.
Eight FBISD Music Programs named 2018 Mark of Excellence Project winners
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front seats, leather-appointed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and heated steering wheel. Leatherappointed seating is standard on the SL grade. Behind the 2nd row seat is up to 22.9 cu. ft. of cargo space. All grades come with a cargo area cover and four oor and two side luggage hooks. The instrument panel includes a 5.0-inch center meter color display and driver assist. There is a 12-volt power outlet in front and push button start. Standard interior features include SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio input jack, USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices, Siri Eyes Free, Bluetooth handsfree phone system, streaming audio via Bluetooth, and rear
Fort Bend ISD is proud to announce that eight of the District’s school band and orchestra programs are winners in the 2018 Mark of Excellence project. The District has two national winners and six commended winners this year. Sponsored by The Foundation for Music Education, the Mark of Excellence project is a not-for-proďŹ t organization that promotes music education through scholarships and other worthwhile projects. The project recognizes and awards outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school bands, choirs and orchestras. The project gathers entries from throughout the U.S. and provides valuable feedback for all entrants. The project creates a unique competitive environment, allowing ensembles to compare their performance quality to other outstanding groups from across the country. The top 25 percent of entrants become National Win-
ners and the second 25 percent become Commended Winners. The Mark of Excellence project consists of the National Wind Band Honors, the National Orchestra Honors, National Choral Honors, National Jazz Honors and the National Percussion Ensemble Honors. This year, 279 of the ďŹ nest musical ensembles from 38 states entered the competition. Winners receive recognition in regional and/or national publications and at national and regional conventions. FBISD winners in the 2018 Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors Project include: •Dulles High School Honor Band, directed by Joe Pruitt – National Winner •First Colony Middle School Band, directed by Carter Matschek – Commended Winner •Fort Settlement Middle School Band, directed by Greg
Countryman and Theresa Baragas – Commended Winner FBISD winners in the 2018 National Orchestra Honors Project are: •Dulles High School Honors String Orchestra, directed by Michael Isadore and Angela Yip – National Winner •Dulles High School Honors Symphony Orchestra, directed by Michael Isadore and Joe Pruitt – Commended Winner •Garcia Middle School Symphony Orchestra, directed by Francis Weberpal, Nicole Elias and Giovanni Fuentes – Commended Winner •Fort Settlement Middle School Chamber Orchestra, directed by Angela Peugnet and Roger Vasquez – Commended Winner •Sartartia Middle School Symphony Orchestra, directed by Sophia Hsieh – Commended Winner.
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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for the revised plan for Mission Glen Estates, Section 1 for the Addition of “No Parking� signs on Williwaw Drive, Precinct 2. 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.
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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. to modify the Major Thoroughfare Plan (MTFP) to modify Ricefield Road in the Rosenberg ETJ. 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 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Sienna Village of Anderson Springs, Section 27A and Section 27B, Precinct 2. 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,
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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Chelsea Harbour, Sections 1 & 2 for the addition of “No Parking� signs on cul-de-sacs, 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.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Creekside Ranch, Section 6 and Section 7, Precinct 3.
Submitted by,
Submitted by,
Submitted by,
Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Firethorne West, Section 2 to add multiway stop control at South Firethorne Road at Weldons Forest Drive and “No Parking, Stopping, Standing� signs on Weldons Forest Drive, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018 • Page 7
NEWS Lessons in Leadership with Carl Sewell Sugar Plum Market recognizes
Top Sponsors
Front Row Left to Right: Heather Brown (Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair), Heather Allen (Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair) Back Row Left to Right: Patti Parish-Kaminski (Absolutely! Focus Media), Haley Peck (Johnson Development Corporation), Malisha Patel (Memorial Hermann Sugar Land), Mike Shaw (Sterling McCall Nissan), Kim Zeiner (Houston Lifestyles), Jamie Hill (Pamela Printing), Stephanie Mahler (Briscoe Manor). “Oh, What Fun!â€? is the Barnâ€?, Behind the Bash Ca- sugarplummarket.com or at lotheme of the 18th Annual tering, The Tallest Tulip, Ran- cal Randalls stores. Preview Market, which will pay trib- dalls, H-E-B, Johnson Devel- Night tickets (limited quantity ute to the many organizations opment Corporation, Harris available) are $75 and General that have beneďŹ ted from the Machine Tools, Vintage Farm- Admission tickets are $12 in Market proceeds through the ing Co., and Pamela Printing. advance or $15 at the door. “Sugar Plum Market volunyears. The Fort Bend Junior Ser- teers sincerely appreciate our vice League (FBJSL) and Me- sponsor’s willingness to supmorial Hermann Sugar Land port our eorts to make our invite the community to join community a healthier, hapthem for what is sure to be an- pier place to live,â€? said Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair Jaime other stellar event. The Market will take place Harris. “Additionally, I am thrilled at the Staord Centre Performing Arts Theatre and to announce Sugar Plum MarConvention Center Friday, ket’s ďŹ rst exclusive Sponsor November 2nd and Saturday, VIP Kick-O party hosted at the prestigious Briscoe ManNovember 3rd. Preview Night has been set or-“The Barnâ€? with food and for the evening of Thursday, beverage sponsored by Behind the Bash Catering was a November 1st. The 2017 Sugar Plum success! This was an exciting Market raised over $280,000 opportunity for Sugar Plum which beneďŹ ted 24 charitable Market volunteers to express organizations in Fort Bend our appreciation to our loyal sponsors in addition to proCounty. The continued success of viding an exclusive networkthe Market would not be pos- ing opportunity and party. We sible without the support of are grateful for the continued support shown by our amazsponsors and donors. In addition to the 2018 Sug- ing sponsors.â€? For information on sponar Plum Market’s Title Sponsor, Memorial Hermann Sug- sorship and underwriting opar Land, top sponsors to date portunities, please visit www. include the Staord Centre sugarplummarket.com/sponPaid Political ad by Jerry Wyatt for the Performing Arts, Life- sors or email sponsors@sugstyles Magazines, absolutely! arplummarket.com. Sugar Plum Market tickets focus media, Sterling McCall Nissan, Briscoe Manor- “The may be purchased at www.
PLANTATION at Quail Valley Active Senior Living; Embracing the lives of Seniors 55 and Better
2815 Cypress Point Dr, Missouri City, TX 77459 www. plantationqv.com
Phone: (281) 208-4470
The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host Carl Sewell as he discusses Lessons in Leadership on Wednesday, Nov. 7, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. The luncheon will be held at the Audi Sugar Land, 10330 US90A, Sugar Land, TX 77478. This luncheon is sponsored by Audi Sugar Land – A Sewell Company. Automotive industry legend Carl Sewell began his career at age 14 cleaning parts bins at his family’s car dealership. After graduating from Southern Methodist University and serving in the U.S. Army, Carl joined the family business fulltime in 1967. In 1967, the business had one dealership with sales of $10 Million. Today, Carl Sewell leads Sewell Automotive Companies, a 107-year old business with 2,800 associates and annual sales in excess of $2.1 Billion. The company has 17 dealerships in Texas representing the following franchises: Audi, Buick-GMC, BMW, Cadillac, InďŹ niti, Lexus, MercedesBenz, MINI and Subaru. Carl has served as the Chairman of the Audi, Lexus and Cadillac National Dealer Councils, and as a member of the InďŹ niti Marketing and Product Dealer Councils. Sewell serves on the Board of
Sewell Trustees of SMU, where he served as Chairman. In 2017, he was inducted into the Texas Business Hall of Fame in honor of his lifetime of personal and business achievements. Carl Sewell is the author of the book, “Customers For Life.� Join the luncheon to discover Fort Bend Chamber Chairman’s Circle member Carl Sewell’s 5 Principles for Success. Registration is open. Lunch Included. Register today at www.FortBendChamber.com or contact Matthew Ferraro at 281-491-0277 or Matthew@fortbendcc.org.
It has been an honor representing you on City Council for over 30 years. When you VOTE by mail or in person, VOTE for proven leader and fellow taxpayer Jerry Wyatt to continue representing you!
What voters need to know about my opponent
I take my election very serious because it is important to keep Missouri City in reasonable hands. Like my last opponent, my new opponent OWNS NO PROPERTY & DOESN’T PAY MISSOURI CITY TAXES. I have lived and paid taxes in Missouri &LW\ VLQFH DQG EHOLHYH LQ SD\LQJ P\ SDUW HVSHFLDOO\ ZKHQ PDNLQJ ¿QDQFLDO GHFLVLRQV IRU WKH &LW\ :KLOH HYHU\RQH ZKR OLYHV LQ WKH &LW\ HQMR\V DOO WKH EHQH¿WV city taxes provide, it’s the taxpayer who pays. My opponent doesn’t know who pays and has never even attended a city council meeting. She is not qualified to lead our city.How can we trust that she knows what to do? Just another candidate that wants to get her hands on the taxpayers’ money.
Over 30 years of committed service on City Council For qualified representation, ensuring a better future for Missouri City.
Experienced
* Strong, fiscal accountability and a good steward of our tax dollars
Trusted
* Works to make diversity our strength
Missouri City Election Day, Tuesday, November 6th Early Voting October 22nd - November 2nd
INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 3, 2018 • Page 8
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Houston Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is pleased to welcome Dr. Jinal Shah, a board-certified neurologist. He joins an experienced team of neurologists who offer diagnosis and treatment of common and complex neurological conditions, including: • Headaches and migraines • Complex spine disorders • Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders • Sleep disorders • Peripheral neurological disorders • Stroke • Epilepsy • Neuromuscular disorders • Dementia Our team provides treatment options using the latest technology and therapeutic techniques, backed by the resources and staff of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Regain your quality of life. To schedule an appointment, call 281.201.6052.
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