Fort Bend Independent 110216

VOL 9 No. 44

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City

County cognizant of long waiting time in Lt. Gary Majors appointed Pct. 2 Constable several polling places during early voting

By SESHADRI KUMAR While early voting has been unexpectedly high in Fort Bend County compared to the last presidential election cycle of 2012, the waiting line for voting has been long in several polling places. In some places in the Katy-Fulshear area, the waiting time was between an hour and an hour and a half.

Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers wrote to Fort Bend County Election Administrator John Oldham on Friday that in his precinct, “We have 3 voting sites, or 14% of the 21 total, in north FBC, with almost 25% of early voters. The wait times have now gone to 1 hr. 20 min. at Cinco and Tompkins (which has 10 machines) and people are turning around and leaving when they see the extremely long lines.

“The problem is not the lack of machines, it’s the lack of workers. When I visited both locations this afternoon about 2-2:30 PM about half the voting machines were empty, people were waiting in line to get checked through. I assume most people are voting straight ticket.

“Not only are there extremely long wait times, 2 of the 3 voting sites in north FBC will be closed on Sunday adding to our problem. (This is ) unacceptable.

“With the large turnout in north FBC we are facing a real mess on Election Day unless something is done to add sites, workers, or machines or all three in north FBC. This needs to be fixed by Nov. 8th. A lot of county-wide candidates are going to be livid if they lose and they find out their likely voters turned around and did not vote because of the long lines.”

Oldham explained that three

machines went down Wednesday at about 4 p.m. because someone had pulled the power cord. Eventually the batteries died. At that point, to bring them back on line, they would have had to shut everything down and bring it back up.

That takes about 10 minutes.

“I gave them a choice of that, or finishing the day without them. They opted to do the latter. Today they are all running.,” Oldham said.

On the number of machines, Oldham said it varied by site.

“There are probably only 4-6 set up at Beasley, but 16 at Cinco, Fulshear, Rosenberg Annex, Missouri City, & First Colony. Cinco Library will expand to 24 on Monday.”

Asked about the long voting lines and waiting time attributed to the lack of adequate poll workers, on Monday Oldham said: “Except for the first day at Fulshear, where a worker did not show up,we feel we have adequate workers. We leave it up to the presiding clerk to tell us if they need additional workers and we have honored every request.

“We have had long lines at some locations and no lines at others. The busiest site has been Cinco Library where we had 2 check-in stations and 15 booths set up. This was the maximum amount that could be set up in the space provided to us.

“This week, the Library is providing a bigger room, and last night we moved the poll to a room allowing us to set up 3 check-in stations and 24 booths.

“We also have bottle necks at Sienna Library, Bowie Middle School and Randall’s New Territory. We are limited at both locations to setting up 8 booths. At Tomkins High School we are only

given enough space to set up 1 check-in and 10 booths. On Election Day at that location we will be set up in the lobby of the Performing Arts Center and more check-ins and booths will be set up. At Sienna, we will also have more space available on Election Day.”

Absentee ballots

In absentee ballots or voting by mail, there were 15,933 requests for mail-ballot. Of these, 9,553 have been returned so far.

The highest return of mailin ballots is from voting precinct 3009, Sugar Creek in Sugar Land. Out of 355 ballots requested, 255 have been returned.

In Pct.3144, in Katy, bound

by Greenbusch, Gaston Road and Grand Parkway, 358 ballots were requested and 225 have been returned.

Early voting

During the first seven days of early voting, a total of 117,984 people have voted in Fort Bend County.

The highest early voting number has been recorded at Cinco Ranch Library with 13,060 votes followed by First Colony with 9040 votes polled, and Tompkins High School in Katy, with 9025 votes.

The next highest early voting has been in Missouri City City Hall which recorded 8,373 votes in the 7-day period.

Sienna Library recorded 7,178 early votes while Rosenberg received 7,118 votes. In Four Corners, 7,116 votes were cast early.

Randalls at New Territory and Sugar Land Branch Library received 6,746 and 6,000 votes, respectively.

Use of e-cigarettes banned in areas where smoking is prohibited in Missouri City The use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices is now banned anywhere smoking is prohibited in the city of Missouri City, in accordance with a recently amended city ordinance.

The amended ordinance defines electronic cigarettes and expanded the definition of smoking to include the use of the devices, thus enforcing the use of electronic cigarettes in the same way as other cigarettes.

Members of the Fort Bend Community Prevention Coalition (FBCPC) requested the amendment, bringing their concerns to the attention of Missouri City Councilman Chris Preston. He ultimately proposed the changes to the city’s ordinance, which were

adopted in July of 2016.

Tobacco Free Fort Bend Coalition also supported the effort, attending council meetings to discuss the dangers of vaping.

“We take pride in this change, and want to thank Councilman Preston for his commitment and passion throughout this process,” said FBCPC Coalition Coordinator Payal Patani.

“As a coalition, we are dedicated to prevent substance abuse among our youth. As the popularity of these devices rise, it is important that our community know there are still dangers associated with ecigarettes and vaping. We applaud the city’s efforts to keep our community smoke-free, and value Tobacco Free Fort Bend’s partnership.”

FBCPC, a program of Fort

Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, serves a vital role in protecting the health and welfare of people who reside and work within FBISD’s service area as members are dedicated to identifying and addressing issues in the community that are contributing to substance use among youth and young adults.

By mobilizing the entire community – parents, youth, school district, law enforcement, health care providers, faith communities, business, youth, young adults, and civic leaders – communities can transform.

FBCPC Mission: To prevent and reduce substance abuse among youth and young adults by building healthy family, school, and community environments.

On Tuesday, October 25th, 2016, Fort Bend County Commissioners Court appointed Lieutenant Gary Majors as Constable, Precinct 2 for the remaining term of office previously held by recently deceased Constable Ruben Davis. Constable Majors has been a deputy in the Fort Bend County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office for 22 years, working his way up through the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant and Lieutenant. Constable Majors is married to Dawn, his wife of 12 years, and they have a daughter, Gabrielle. He and his family reside in Missouri City. Hebert said, “Constable Majors is both qualified and experienced. He worked with Ruben Davis for twenty years. He will do a great job as Precinct 2 Constable.” Pictured: Constable Majors, left, and Judge Robert Hebert.

Federal agencies bust Indian call center fraudulent phone call scheme

By SESHADRI KUMAR At least 61 individuals and entities have been indicted by a Federal Grand Jury in a multimillion dollar “Indian call center scam” targeting victims in the U.S. The indictment was unsealed on Oct. 27.

In connection with the case, 20 individuals were arrested in the U.S., including two in Sugar Land and one in Stafford in Fort Bend County, and 32 individuals and five call centers in India were charged for their alleged involvement.

Sunny Joshi, Domestic Manager Sugar Land, Rajesh Bhatt (a.k.a.

Manoj Joshi) Domestic Manager, Sugar Land, and Nilesh Pandya, Runner, Stafford, were among those arrested.

An additional U.S.-based defendant is currently in the custody of immigration authorities.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas, in Houston obtained the indictments against the accused for their alleged involvement in a transnational criminal organization that has victimized thousands of persons in the United States through fraudulent schemes resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in losses.

“This indictment will serve to not only seek the conviction of those involved, but will send a message around the world that no one is safe from prosecution for participating in such pervasive transnational fraud schemes,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson.

“The indictment we unsealed and the arrests we made

today demonstrate the Justice Department’s commitment to identifying and prosecuting the individuals behind these impersonation and telefraud schemes, who seek to profit by exploiting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities,” said Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

“This is a transnational problem, and demonstrates that modern criminals target Americans both from inside our borders and from abroad. Only by working tirelessly to gather evidence, build cases, and working closely with foreign law enforcement partners to ensure there are no safe havens can we effectively address these threats.”

“Today’s actions will not only bring a sense of justice to the victims in this case, but this significant investigation will also help increase awareness of this type of fraud,” said Executive Associate Director Peter T. Edge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.

Inspector General J. Russell George of the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration said, “This indictment is the result of countless hours of solid investigative work and excellent cross-governmental collaboration concerning massive amounts of fraud that individuals have allegedly perpetrated on the American people.”

“This multi-agency, three year investigation illustrates the ability of federal, state and local agencies

to successfully leverage resources, communicate and work together to achieve justice,” said Inspector General John Roth of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General.

The indictment charges the defendants with conspiracy to commit identity theft, false personation of an officer of the United States, wire fraud and money laundering. One of the defendants is separately charged with passport fraud.

The indictment alleges that the defendants were involved in a sophisticated fraudulent scheme organized by conspirators in India, including a network of call centers in Ahmedabad, India.

Using information obtained from data brokers and other sources, call center operators allegedly called potential victims while impersonating officials from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. According to the indictment, the call center operators then threatened potential victims with arrest, imprisonment, fines or deportation if they did not pay taxes or penalties to the government. If the victims agreed to pay, the call centers would then immediately turn to a network of U.S.-based co-conspirators to liquidate and launder the extorted funds as quickly as possible by purchasing prepaid debit cards or through wire transfers. The prepaid debit cards were often registered using misappropriated personal identifying information of See FRAUD, Page 3

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016

NEWS Missouri City Ballet kicks off 2016 Holiday Season with The Nutcracker The Missouri City Ballet brings its holiday tradition again to the Stafford Centre for three magical performances on Saturday, November 26th and Sunday, November 27th.

New costumes and choreography, Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, as well as a cast of area dancers make the classic story of The Nutcracker come to life.

The Nutcracker, a timeless holiday classic, is a story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve from her Uncle Drosselmeyer.

After going to bed, Clara dreams of a battle between the Nutcracker Prince and mice. Her dream continues with a visit to the beautiful Land of Snow and the delightful Land of Sweets. Following each performance, the audience will be able to meet the cast for photos and autographs.

In its 7th season, the Missouri City Ballet, a nonprofit, pre-professional ballet company, offers intensive training and performance opportunities for serious young dancers in the Fort Bend area.

Artistic Director Sharon Teague, a retired Houston Ballet First Soloist, uses her wealth of ballet experience and visionary leadership to prepare the dancers and productions for the stage. Principal coach, Lauren Anderson, retired Houston Ballet Prin-

cipal dancer, brings her legendary talent to the Missouri City Ballet Company. Laeral Dance Academy is proud to be the home of the Missouri City Ballet Company.

Tickets start at only $22 to enable families to bring their little ones to see the magical production of The Nutcracker.

The cast this year will wow audiences.

As Sharon Teague says, “You will be surprised to see what these 14, 15, and 16-year-old dancers can do, and that’s from someone who danced with the Houston Ballet for many years.” Teague further added, “I think your family really will enjoy this holiday tradition.”

To purchase tickets, visit www.missouricityballet.org.

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INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016 • Page 3

News Fraud From Page 1 thousands of identity theft victims, and the wire transfers were directed by the criminal associates using fake names and fraudulent identifications.

The co-conspirators allegedly used “hawalas,” in which money is transferred internationally outside of the formal banking system, to direct the extorted funds to accounts belonging to U.S.based individuals. According to the indictment, these individuals were expecting the hawala transfers but were not aware of the illicit nature of the funds. The coconspirators also allegedly kept a percentage of the proceeds for themselves.

According to the indictment, one of the call centers extorted $12,300 from an 85-year-old victim from San Diego, California, after threatening her with arrest if she did not pay fictitious tax violations. On the same day that she was extorted, one of the U.S.-based defendants allegedly used a reloadable debit card funded with the victim’s money to purchase money orders in Frisco.

The indictment also alleges that the defendants extorted $136,000 from a victim in Hayward, California, who they called multiple times over a period of 20 days, fraudulently purporting to be IRS agents and demanding payment for alleged tax violations. The victim was then directed to purchase 276 stored value cards which the defendants then transferred to reloadable debit cards.

Some of the victim’s money ended up on cards which were activated using stolen personal identifying information from U.S.- based victims.

The conspirators would at times allegedly use alternative fraudulent schemes in which the call center operators would offer the victims small short-term loans or advise them that they were eligible for grants.

The indictment alleges that the conspirators would then request a good-faith deposit to show the victims’ ability to pay back the loan, or payment of a fee to process the grant. The victims of the alleged scam never received any money after making the requested payment.

DHS OIG, HSI and TIGTA led the investigation. The Ft. Bend, Texas, County Sheriff’s Department; The Federal Communications Commission’s Enforcement Bureau provided assistance in TIGTA’s investigation.

A Department of Justice website has been established to provide information about the case to already identified and potential victims, and the public. Anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud or identity theft in relation to this investigation or other telefraud scam phone calls may contact the FTC via this website.

Anyone who wants additional information about telefraud scams generally, or preventing identity theft or fraudulent use of their identity information, may obtain helpful information on the IRS tax scams website, the FTC phone scam website and the FTC identity theft website.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.

A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

Call centers were used in connection with a scheme to defraud U.S. residents by misleading U.S. residents into sending money utilizing a number of different confidence scams,to include:

a. IRS scam: India-based call centers impersonated U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) officers and defrauded U.S. residents by misleading them into believing that they owed money to the IRS and would be arrested and fined if they did not pay their alleged back taxes immediately. b. USCIS scam: India-based call centers impersonated U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers and defrauded U.S. residents by misleading them into believing that they would be deported-unless they pay up immediately for alleged issues with their USCIS paperwork. c. Payday loan scam: Indiabased call centers defrauded U.S. residents by misleading them into believing that the callers were loan officers and that the U.S. residents were eligible for a fictitious “payday loan” (small, shortterm, unsecured loan in which repayment is generally linked to a borrower’s next paycheck or regular income payment, such as a social security check). The India-based callers directed the U.S. residents to pay an upfront “worthiness fee” to demonstrate an ability to repay the loan. The victims received nothing in return. d. Government grant scam: India-based call centers defrauded U.S. residents by misleading them into believing that they were eligible for a fictitious government grant.

Callers directed the U.S. residents to pay an upfront IRS tax or processing fee. The victims received nothing in return.

In this Indictment, there are five major conglomerates of call centers, all located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India: HGlobal, Call Mantra, Worldwide Solution, Zoriion Communications, and Sharma BPO (Business Process Outsourcing). The operation involved Runners, domestic managers, call center operators, data brokers, hawaladars, and payment processors.

Prepaid store value cards were used in this scheme.

YMax Corporation or “Magic Jack” phone numbers utilized physical devices which employed VoiP to allow users to make unlimited local or long distance phone calls to U.S. and Canadian telephone numbers using an existing internet connection; users could make and receive calls using a computer or phone.

During the course of the investigation, the conspirators used approximately 1,500 Magic Jack numbers to defraud victims and to facilitate the transfer of victim funds.

The Magic Jack devices were purchased in bulk in the

U.S. and shipped to the call centers in India.

The defendants have perpetrated an enormous and complex fraud scheme that has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars of victim losses derived from persons located throughout the United States.

The design of the scheme and the rapid movement of victim funds often resulted in victims being unable to report the fraud in time for their funds to be recovered.

Over 15,000 known victims with losses attributable to scam calls have been identified thus far, and upwards of 50,000 individuals have had their identities misappropriated based on the unauthorized use of their PII to register GPR cards used to move telefraud victim funds.

Among the several instances of fraud listed in the indictment was that of Patricia T. On or about November 19, 2013, ZORIION Callers telephonically extorted victim Patricia T., residing in Houston, TX, of $3,400 by fraudulently purporting to be IRS employees, threatening arrest and demanding payment for alleged tax violations. On or about November 19, 2013, ZORIION Callers directed victim Patricia T. to purchase six (6) prepaid MoneyPak cards with the stored value of$3,400 and transmit the PINs associated with those MoneyPaks to the Caller. On the same day, conspirators transferred the MoneyPak cards funded by victim Patricia T. to three (3) GPR cards. On or about November 25, 2013, a conspirator sent an email from dpatel7312@ gmail.com to RAJKAMAL SHARMA with an attached spreadsheet containing 93 activated GPR cards including one funded by Patricia T. In another instance, On or about July 18, 2013, an HGLOBAL Caller telephonically extorted victim Anup U., a Stafford, TX resident, of $2,785 by fraudulently purporting to be an immigration agent, demanding payment for alleged immigration violations and threatening that Anup U. would be deported within 24 hours. The HGLOBAL Caller appeared to be calling from 1-800-375-5283, the national call center for users.

On or about November 6, 2014, an HGLOBAL Caller telephonically extorted victim Inaben D. of Sugar Land, TX of $19,172 by fraudulently purporting to be an employee of USCIS, demanding payment for alleged immigration violations. The Caller represented that Inaben D., a U.S. citizen, would be deported if she did not pay.

Age-old medical practice makes a comeback with modern twist in wound care

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the first in Fort Bend County to use an innovative biotherapy involving fly larvae to save a patient’s infected limb that otherwise would have been amputated.

Wound care specialist Nicholas Desai, D.P.M., used the BioBag®, a unique larval therapy, to clean dead tissue from a diabetic patient’s severely infected foot and quickly prepare him for a skin graft, saving him from a below-knee amputation.

What would have been an 18to 24-month ordeal — with multiple staged surgeries and significant future risks — was taken care of in a matter of days, allowing the patient to return to his daily routine quicker with full mobility.

“The BioBag actually relies on a very old practice that has been modernized in a unique way,” Desai said. “The use of larval therapy to debride, or clean, dead tissue from infected wounds dates back thousands of years. The BioBag brings it up to date by providing full containment of the fly larvae within a sealed, easy-to-apply dressing.”

BioBags contain larvae of the common green bottle fly, secured in a polyester pouch with a porous outer layer that allows direct access to the wound. When placed on top an infected lesion, the larvae secrete enzymes that liquefy dead tissue, which they then consume — effectively cleaning the wound within a day or two. Those enzymes also speed healing by providing antibacterial protection of the area.

“Larval therapy leaves all healthy tissue intact and allows us to perform a skin graft within a couple of days of treatment,” he said. “In severe cases of infection, larval therapy will

tion of those costs. Many of those cases eventually result in amputations, which lead to future costs and significant health risks.”

Desai believes the revival of this age-old healing process can revolutionize modern wound care.

“The benefits of the larval therapy are exponential,” he said. “It improves healing, reduces the risk of further infection, prevents the need for amputation and dramatically reduces the time and expense of care. It’s a unique approach to this very serious and growing problem.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nicholas Desai, call 281.240.3338.

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 for a physician referral.

Dr. Nicholas Desai actually save the patient’s limb because more conventional therapies would not work in time.”

The first patient to receive the larval therapy at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, and in Fort Bend, was treated on a Friday. By Tuesday of the following week, his infection was cleared and he was able to receive a skin graft to cover the top of his foot, preventing the need for amputation. Since then, Desai has used this larval therapy numerous times at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, with 100 percent success.

The larval therapy – introduced in the U.S. in 2015 – has the potential to make a significant positive impact on health care outcomes and costs. The dramatic rise in Type 2 diabetes among Americans has led to a rapid increase in diabetesrelated foot ulcers and infections — which can be difficult for patients to detect, since they often lose feeling in their extremities, and treat because diabetes can slow the ability of skin cells to rejuvenate.

“Slow-healing wounds are an incredible burden on the American health care system,” Desai said. “In 2014, the U.S. spent an estimated $10-15 billion on ulcer and wound care, with diabetic foot ulcers accounting for the largest por-

Anita Milne

The AristoCats Kids Sugar Land’s awardwinning community theatre, Inspiration Stage, opens Disney’s The AristoCats KIDS on November 11 in the historic Sugar Land Auditorium, 226 Lakeview Dr. Based on the beloved Disney animated film, and featuring a jazzy, upbeat score, Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS is a non-stop thrill ride of feline fun set in the heart of Paris. Directed by Mandy Seymore-Sensat, the production runs the weekend of Nov. 11 through Nov. 13, with two evening shows and two matinees. Tickets are available now at www.inspirationstage.com.

Knowledgeable! Experienced!

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281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group

Meadows Place•Blair Meadow• 4/2/2 Meadows Place • Brighton • 3/2/2

$224,500

Richmond • Windswept • 4/2/2

$183,000

$159,000 $159,000

Meadows Place • Alston • 3/2.5/2 Meadows Place • River Meadow • 3/2/2 Meadows Place•Meadowdale•4/2/2

REDUCED

$194,500 SOLD

$225,000

$244,500

J U D G E M AG G I E J A R A M I L LO I S E N D O R S E D BY • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Hon. Pete Olsen Hon. Glenn Hegar Hon. Rick Miller Hon. Phil Stephenson Hon. Andy Meyers Hon. David Medina Hon. Amy Mitchell Hon. Bradley Smith Hon. Tina Gibson Hon. Dean Hrbacek Hon. Himesh Gandhi Hon. Jacquie Baly Hon. John Zerwas Hon. Donald Smithers Sheriff Troy Nehls Houston Police Officers Union • Michelle Anderson

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Al and Mary Baker Susan Bourgeois Marshall & Shirley Brown Nance Burris Nancy Capetillo Brent & Nancy Carpenter Dwayne and Janet Chobotar Jan Culver Ralph Gonzalez Belinda Gutierrez David Hamilton John & Coleen Herman Xavier Herrera Jay & Maggy Horgan Carlo & Helen Jimenez Richard Johnson Dana & Hal Kaufman Dan & Terri Martinez

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Lionel & Melissa Martin Jennifer Melendez Chris Meyer Larry McDougal Michael Nassif Shannon Orsak Celso Pacheco Lisa Pierce Mark Racer Beth Rahman James Rivera Derick Smith James Stevens Ray Aguilar Craig Letulle Robert and Olga Gracia Jeff Strange Paul Tu

Partial list at time of printing

• Appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the 400th District Court October 22, 2014.

• Judge Jaramillo has run the 400th District Court efficiently with fairness for the citizens of Fort Bend County.

• Judge Jaramillo has 17 years prior experience as a trial attorney in criminal and civil matters.

• She is involved in and supports many charitable organizations in Fort Bend County.

Early voting: October 24 – November 4 • Election Day: Tuesday, November 8 Pd. Pol. Adv. by Judge Maggie Jaramillo Campaign, Jaime Jaramillo Treasurer, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Rosenberg Arts Alliance

NEWS New construction on TI property begins

Rosenberg Arts Alliance Celebrates 3rd Street Art Park Ribbon Cutting and Art Bench Dedication with Central Fort Bend Chamber in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

Members of the community joined Rosenberg Arts Alliance and Historic Downtown Rosenberg for their 3rd Street Art Park ribbon cutting and art bench dedication. The 3rd Street Art Park includes sculptures and painted murals spread across the 3rd street buildings crafted by local artists, Lee Groff and Cisco Tucker Kolkmeier, for all to enjoy. Attendees of the ceremony enjoyed the beautiful display of art benches peppered throughout downtown Rosenberg, each painted with a dedication to loved ones, leaders within the community or simply dedicated to add to the beauty of downtown Rosenberg. Paintings on the fifteen art benches include work from artists Paul Sanchez, Katie Barcak, Sue Syverston, Barb White, Kathy Golden, Karen Sabrsula, Sue Zelko, Diane Miller and Orlando Reyna. For more information, visit the Rosenberg Arts Alliance Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Rosenberg-CulturalDistrict

MEP Engineering

Commissioning

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Plats and amendments to plats on the former Texas Instruments (TI) property in Stafford continue onward as well as construction on some parcels in the 192 acres that Dallas developer Street Level bought and will develop as the town’s first integrated mixed use area.

While plating and replatting has been going on for some time, so has some development that can be seen.

The large buildings on Murphy Road are completed and “we have our first set of tenants for those,” said Chris Riggs, Stafford’s building director and zoning administrator.

Last week plats were submitted for the buildout of the interior. The first tenant is 700 Valve Supply, a retailer, who has signed on. Riggs said, “It’s been full steam ahead. A lot has to happen – both infrastructure and platting.”

The first of three components of the rebuilding of the TI property started on Murphy Road and are warehouses.

Apartments are now going to be built where light industry was, Riggs said, and added that the plans for them have

Program Management

been submitted to Stafford for review.

The second component on the 192-acres is the old TI campus and is now designated to be a city center. “Last week we got the final plat of some of it. It will be built on the frontage along Airport and the frontage along the curve of Hwy. 59,” Riggs said. “It’s well hanging fruit because it’s all on the outskirts of the property.”

The mixed use development will include 1,800 apartment units, with 30 units per acre. The apartments will be no more than three stories high and located in Tract F. There will also be numerous restaurants, big box retail, a hotel, office buildings, commercial and light industrial uses, medium density residential, cinema, theatre, health clubs, etc. in various areas of Tract F. Riggs said, “They (Street Level) have been doing demolition for four months now – tearing down the old buildings they don’t want and keeping the ones they plan to refurbish. No permits have been pulled for construction on the third part (component) but platting has been initiated.”

As for the third component, Riggs said there has been very little done on it yet but all the work it takes before any dirt can be turned has begun.

“The whole thing is a planned development and within that there was a schedule and they are on schedule.”

He also said the design of the development “has a real urban feel to it. It will be dense and up. Some buildings can go up to eight stories.”

The higher the building goes the larger the setbacks.

Somewhere between 80 acres is what the retail area is. Office warehouses will be on 27 acres and 60 acres are for apartments.”

Riggs said, “We’re in the middle of it. And should see the first phase of apartments and retail up and going. We already have the office warehouses complete. The low hanging fruit for the development is office warehouses.”

They were completed first because they are a big retail element. As the money flows in, more will be built over the 15 years it may take to complete the development.

The property fronts on four major roads in Stafford. One access road to the property will come from U.S. Hwy. 59 (Southwest Freeway) going north and the other three are West Airport, Kirkwood Road and Murphy Road.

Tract A is 48 acres and according to Stafford’s MU-2 zoning can accommodate outlet, retail, restaurants, office, cinema, theatre, health club, bowling alley, shopping enter, grocery.

Commercial can occupy up

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

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to 360,000 square feet and a hotel of 150 rooms can also be built in Tract A. Retail buildings in this tract are expected to begin going in this year and a hotel in 2018 or later.

Tract B is nine acres and zoning allows retail, restaurants, taverns, office and a hotel. The range of size can be from 30,000 to 100,000 square feet. The timing for development in this tract is expected to be 2016 or later.

Tract C is two acres and will have retail, restaurants, taverns, office (general and medical) and those businesses may range in size from 5,000 to 22,000 square feet. They too are expected to be built this year or later.

Tract D is 25 acres and uses in it can be all of the above plus residential, indoor recreation, shopping center and parking garage. Apartments will be a maximum of 600 units in this tract. Combined uses can be from 200,000 to 880,000 square feet. Building is expected to begin in 2017 or later.

Tract E is seven acres and will have retail, restaurants, grocery, shopping center, clinic, office, and tavern. Range in size will be from 27,000 to 70,000 square feet and construction is expected to start this year or later.

Tract F is 61 acres plus and is strictly residential. They will start being built this year or later in multiple phases.

Tract G is 22 acres and will is zoned for office, warehouse and light industry. The range of sizes is 300,000 to 352,000 square feet.

Riggs said when construction happens will depend heavily on the market and demand for the various land uses. It is expected to be developed in numerous phases over a five to 15 year period.

The first phase began this year and includes road infrastructure and utilities for the first residential, retail, restaurant and commercial development, which will front on Hwy. 59, West Airport and Murphy Road.

In the proposed construction schedule for the development, it says some 350 to 450 residential units will be built along West Airport and the commercial industrial space will be built along West Airport and Murphy Road.

More residential units will be built in phases of 300 to 500 units. It is expected that each residential phase will be built two years after the previous phase was completed. But everything, Riggs said, will be market driven.

“We’re put a lot of effort into this,” Riggs said.

“It took almost two years just to do the zoning. A lot of effort was put into the negotiations between the city and developer. Ultimately, I think there’s a nice balance there.”

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 12551, Emily Court, Texas 77478.

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INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016 • Page 5

NEWS Stephen F. Austin High School Marching Band & Angels Dance Team advances to State Championships

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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 The Stephen F. Austin High School Band & Angels Dance Team came in first place at the UIL Area E 6A Contest on Saturday, October 29, at the Berry Center in Cypress.

This qualifies them to advance to the UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest on Tuesday, November 8th at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

This is the second time since 2006 that the Band and Angels have advanced to the UIL state championships, and the first time since 2002 that they have taken first place at the area contest.

In total, there were 40 marching bands from in and around Houston competing in Area E, which is the largest area in the state of Texas. Fort Bend ISD had two schools advance, Austin and Clements.

The procedure for select-

ing bands to advance from area to state is by adding the five judges’ rankings for each band.

The final ranking is determined by assigning the band with the lowest composite score first place, the next lowest composite score is second place and so on until the band with the highest composite score is listed last.

The title of this year’s show is “Summertime!” which is a light, airy, and fun show about having fun in the summer.

The music in the show comes from the well-known American composer, George Gershwin. Musical selections include Rhapsody in Blue, Summertime from Porgy and Bess, Second Rhapsody, and An American in Paris.

This show is so much fun for the audience that they will

spontaneously laugh and clap and truly enjoy themselves.

AHS has received many compliments on how enjoyable the show is.

Band director, Bob Chreste, has been telling his students “You must believe that anything is possible when you have a group of people where everyone understands and achieves their role on the team, and are willing to do whatever it takes to help the team.”

That commitment to excellence was certainly rewarded with the win and their advancement to the UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest.

For more information or to find out ways to support the AHS band, go to http://www. sfaband.org/.

Photo Credit: Saba Hussain

INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016 • Page 6

AUTOMOBILE: Toyota Camry FINANCE & INVESTMENT Year end tax strategies

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2017 Toyota Camry continues to offer the best combination of roominess, comfort, quality, safety and performance in the midsize segment, as defined by the best judges of such factors: customers. And they have been saying this for the 14 years that the mid-size sedan has been America’s best-selling passenger car.

The Camry, now in its 35th year and seventh design generation, adds the Entune Audio Plus multimedia system with connected navigation App and JBL audio to the XLE and XSE grades as standard equipment.

The XLE, XSE four-cylinder and XLE Hybrid now also come standard with wireless smartphone charging at no added cost to the consumer, as the MSRP on all Camry models is carried over from the previous model year.

Camry comes in four trims, including LE, XLE, SE, and XSE. Another key to Camry’s ongoing dominance in the midsize segment is found under the hood, where three powertrain choices include a 178-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine; 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and the Hybrid model, which is expected to offer up to a 40 MPG combined rating.

The 2.5-liter four and 3.5-liter V6 engines come teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency comes in at an anticipated 24 MPG city / 33 MPG highway for the fourcylinder and 21 MPG city / 30 MPG highway for the V6.

The 2016 model year

Camry earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick + rating when equipped with the pre-collision System that includes automatic emergency braking.

It carries over to the 2017 Camry as part of the technology package that includes dynamic cruise control, lane departure alert and auto high beam. The 2017 Camry also offers a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, an option offered on XLE and XSE grades.

The available safety connect telematics system on XLE grades includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, emergency assistance button and roadside assistance.

Like all 2017 Toyota vehicles, the Camry comes standard with vehicle stability control, traction control, antilock braking, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.

The way that the Camry SE and XSE drive really wins over customers of all ages.

Specially tuned suspension sharpens agility yet preserves ride comfort. The SE features 17-inch alloy wheels with a graphite finish. The XSE gets 18-inch machine-finish alloy wheels with P225/45R18 tires.

The SE and XSE can rev up the car enthusiast lurking in any driver. In both models, sport front seats with more supportive side bolsters grip the driver while the driver grips a leather steering wheel.

A multi-mode console shifter and steering wheel paddle shifters control the six-speed automatic transmission. Exclusive to the SE and XSE, the transmission features faster

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Bonbrook Plantation North, Section Eleven and Bonbrook Plantation North Section Twelve, Precinct 1.

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

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the revised traffic control plans for Katy ISD schools to change the school zone speed limit times to accommodate changed bell schedules, Precinct 3.

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

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Harvest Garden Boulevard, for placement of 35 mph speed limit signs between Harlem Road and Harvest Home Drive, Precinct 3 and 4.

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

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Aliana, Section 41 and Section 47, 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, November 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Riverstone North, Section 6 and Section 7, 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, November 22, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Plantation Drive at Windmill Drive, for placement of “right lane must turn right” sign, Precinct 3.

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

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

shift times when in “S” mode, along with downshift blipping control to intensify the performance-driving feel.

A 4.2-inch screen nestled between the three-dimensional Optitron gauges is standard on all grades. The screen’s color animation displays a wide range of vehicle functions and coordinates with the multimedia system to display audio, navigation, warnings and communications.

Camry drivers can count on entertainment and connectivity with a variety of audio and navigation packages. Depending on model grade, the Camry uses either a 6.1-inch or 7-inch touch-screen displays. Bluetooth wireless is standard for compatible hands-free phone calls and audio streaming. It’s accessible in all models from the steering wheel, as is the audio system.

The price tag on the fourdoor XSE V6 Camry sedan is $31,370. Optional equipment on the test drive XSE increased the MSRP to $34,655.

If you want to drive a winner in every way, definitely test drive a Camry.

As we continue to approach the end of 2016, it’s important to be aware of some tax strategies that can be implemented.

There are some strategies that can wait until your tax filing deadline, however, the following strategies must be implemented before year end.

Roth Conversions Depending on your current situation, a Roth conversion could be a great wealth enhancement strategy. With a Roth conversion, you pay the tax now, the conversion amount then grows tax free and gets distributed tax free as well.

Some key variables that we consider for determining suitability for a Roth conversion are current taxable income, projected future taxable income and resources available to pay the tax on the conversion. It can be a great deal if your marginal tax rate is expected to be higher in the future.

Therefore, the best times for Roth conversions are typically once a client retires but before social security and required minimum distributions (RMD’s) start.

Converting Traditional IRA assets to a Roth IRA can substantially increase terminal wealth due to the tax free growth, especially if you are younger.

Thus, Roth IRA assets should be “last to withdraw” for taking distributions in most cases.

Here at WJ Interests, we can do a tax analysis to determine if Roth conversions are recommended.

Additionally, it’s prudent to consider the Medicare surcharge income thresholds when considering a Roth conversion.

Brandon Arns, left, Jared Jameson, and Bill Jameson.

You have the option to “re- a $3,000 capital loss annually characterize” a Roth IRA con- on your tax return. Tax loss version; which essentially re- harvesting can be the “silver verses the conversion amount lining” in a declining market. back into your Traditional Qualified Charitable IRA. This should be considDistributions ered when the current account At age 70 ½, the IRS requires value is now lower than it was you to begin taking distribuat the time of conversion. Oc- tions from your IRA each tober 15th of the following year. This is called the Reyear is the deadline to rechar- quired Minimum Distribuacterize. tion (RMD), which is taxed For substantial Roth IRA as ordinary income. However, conversion amounts, consider you may elect to donate up to opening a Roth IRA for each $100,000 of your annual RMD position to more effectively to a public charity, which will re-characterize if need be. satisfy your RMD and exclude Tax Loss Harvesting the qualified charitable distriAn additional strategy bution (QDC) amount from worth mentioning is tax loss your taxable income. harvesting, which involves In addition to these tax stratedeliberately selling the funds gies, there are other tax stratwith the largest capital loss in egies available to utilize dea brokerage account, then buy- pending on your situation. A ing back into a similar fund to WJ advisor can help you deavoid violating the “wash sale termine which tax strategies rule”, which prohibits buying are recommended for you. back into the same fund within WJ Interests, LLC has provid30 days. ed fee-only financial advice to The buying back step is individuals, families and busivery important to maintain nesses since 1996. For more market exposure. information, please contact us This strategy affords the op- at wj@wjwealth.com or 281portunity to offset large future 634-9400. capital gains and/or take up to

FILM REVIEW: Inferno

FORT BEND COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FY 2015 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER) Fort Bend County’s FY 2015 Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) is now available for public review and comment from Friday, November 4, 2016 to Friday, November 18, 2016. The document is available for review at the office of the Fort Bend County Community Development Department at 301 Jackson Street, Suite 602, Richmond, Texas, 77469.

The public is encouraged to review this document and submit written comments to Marilynn Kindell, Community Development Director, at 301 Jackson Street, Suite 602, Richmond, Texas, 77469, by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 18, 2016.

A public meeting to receive comments will be held on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the William B. Travis Building, 301 Jackson Street, First Floor Meeting Room, Richmond, Texas. Comments will be incorporated into the final document, as appropriate, prior to submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for review and approval.

Persons with vision or hearing impairments or other individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids and services may contact the department at (281) 341-4410 regarding reasonable accommodations for the meeting. This venue is accessible for persons with physical disabilities. Spanish language translators are available at the meeting for persons with Limited English Proficiency. Persons requiring other language translators must contact the department at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at (281) 341-4410 to request translation services for the meeting.

For information, please contact the Fort Bend County Community Development Department, 301 Jackson Street, Suite 602, Richmond, Texas, 77469, (281) 341-4410.

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being December 12, 2016 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The case is presently pending before the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on October 14, 2016. It bears cause number 16-DCV-236301 and is styled: Gloria Garcia and Misael Duenez vs.

John Doe, Et AI. The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: WILLIAM MADISON COLGIN, IV ATTORNEY AT LAW 2512 FIRST STREET HWY 36 ROSENBERG TX 77471 The nature of the demands of said Plaintiff/Petitioner is-as-follows to-wit: TO QUIET TITLE ON REAL PROPERTY, HEREAFTER REFERRED TO AS “THE PROPERTY” FOR FURTHER CLARIFICATION, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: TRACT ONE PROPERTY ADDRESS: SOUTH POST OAK BOULEVARD, FRESNO, TEXAS 77545 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 16 IN THE NORTH 1/2 OF BLOCK 37 OF MAGNOLIA PLACE, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 2, PAGE 6 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS’ BEING MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN A DEED FROM DOROTHY E SORRELLS TO MRS. H. P. RUSSELL, DATED MARCH 7, 1942 AND RECORDED IN VOLUME 202, PAGE 200 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS; BEING THE SAME PROPERTY IDENTIFIED ON FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS TAX ROLLS AS ACCOUNT NO. 4600-00-037-1160-90 TRACT TWO PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1040 EVERGREEN STREET, FRESNO, TEXAS 77545-7674 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: OIL CENTER SEC 1, SECTION 1, BLOCK C, LOT 12-12A MH ONLY REFER TO #1200, SERIAL #SV4050424, LABEL # RAD1208687 If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 26th day of October, 2016.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT

By Deputy District Clerk Erica Rodriguez Fort Bend County,Texas Telephone: (281) 633-7612

The Dan Brown character Robert Langdon “wakes up” in an Italian hospital from an apparent coma from a grazing gunshot to the head which leaves him with amnesia.

He’s not the only one that wakes up.

Tom Hanks once again plays Professor Langdon; the guy with the special touch in making monumental leaps from seemingly meaningless clues. Hanks appeared in “Angels and Demons” in 2009 and “The Da Vinci Code” in 2006. Wow, this series of movies has haunted the screens for ten years. Just shows that if you throw some big money and big stars at an extremely weak screenplay, anything can happen. And this time a dreadful movie happened.

Director Ron “Opie” Howard and Hanks have done this dance three times and it hasn’t gotten any better. I’m barely qualified to rip all three movies. I’ve not sat through the other two films completely. I was determined to make it all the way through “Inferno” but it took all of my strength. When I woke up, the end credits were rolling. I gathered up my belongings and walked out with the other Social Security recipients. No one was talking, so I’m not sure of their takes. However, at one point, I’m pretty sure I heard snoring.

I don’t hold it against Opie and Tommy Tom; they’re extremely rich and famous and this sorry-excuse-for-a movie will barely be a blip on their filmography. But I suggest that they not go on the talk-show circuit and try to sell it and act like they’re proud of this piece of silliness. We all need to make a buck.

Felicity Jones as ER physician Sienna Brooks turned world traveler and partner of secret clues with the wacky Professor Landon was cute as a button and a bright spot in this so-called movie. Jones was nominated for Best Actress for her spectacular portrayal of Jane Hawking in “The Theory of Everything” (2014) so we know she can act. She grabbed her paycheck and checked out soon after it was a wrap. I hope.

These “Inferno” characters were running around the world trying to save mankind from a madman who wanted to unleash a virus to cut the population in half. Little Danny Brown came up with that plot and I can see Opie and Hanks buying in on the project; just one more time. But, Boys, you have got to stop it.

Rock ‘n Roll. Grade 69S. Larry H. Published Review #1000 – see www.larryhmoviereviews.com

INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016 • Page 7

NEWS Colony Meadows Elementary celebrates 25th anniversary Colony Meadows Elementary recently celebrated the school’s 25 anniversary year with a rousing kick-off ceremony to their fall carnival on Saturday, October 8. Fort Bend ISD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Anthony Indelicato and past principal, Eugene Dupont were among the dignitaries that were present. The ceremony began with the Fort Settlement Orchestra and highlighted CME’s Fifth Grade Show Choir.

Melissa Bolding, CME Principal, remarked on how much has changed since CME first opened its’ doors 25 years ago.

The celebration was attended by over 200 parents, faculty, staff, and students in the beautiful new outdoor pavilion on the CME campus.

Clements High School teacher selected for University of Chicago’s Outstanding Educator Award A Clements High School teacher has been honored with a distinguished award from the University of Chicago.

William Chan was selected for University of Chicago’s Outstanding Educator Award, after being nominated by a former FBISD student.

“I feel tremendously honored to receive this award from the University of Chicago,” Chan said.

Each year the university invites entering first-year students to nominate an educator who has influenced them,

William Chan nominated by former student

challenged them, or helped them along the path of intellectual growth. Chan was selected out of hundreds of letters that were submitted.

“I am extremely fortunate and lucky to have the opportunity to make an impact on my students’ lives. It provides great encouragement to boost my passion and continue to achieve excellence in my career.”

Chan teaches AP Environmental Science at Clements High School. He’s been teaching since 2008.

8th Annual “Operation Thanksgiving – Stuff the Squad Car and Fire Truck” set for Nov. 19 Community unity will shine through again this year in the “Show Me City” as citizens and the City of Missouri Ciuty partner to host the eighth annual “Operation Thanksgiving— Stuff the Squad Car and Fire Truck!” on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Public Safety Headquarters, 3849 Cartwright Rd. Residents are encouraged to come out and fill at least 10 Missouri City police squad cars and two Fire & Rescue Services trucks with canned and non-perishable food items.

The goods will be donated to the Second Mile Mission Center, Bethel Ministry and the Fort Bend County Women’s Center.

Bins such as the ones above are located in City buildings.

Residents may deposit donations in the receptacles before the Operation Thanksgiving event. If residents would like to drop-off donations before Saturday, Nov. 19, they are welcome to deliver them to the following

Judge Bridges was appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the 240th District Court of Fort Bend County in 2015. Prior to taking the 240th bench, Judge Bridges was an Assistant District Attorney for 18 years. Judge Bridges handled over 150 jury trials and dozens of appellate matters in cases ranging from misdemeanors to Capital Murder. Judge Bridges was legal counsel for Computer Science Corporation for three years, handling corporate litigation in State and Federal court.

JUDGE BRIDGES’ LEGAL EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: • •

Past President and Former Director of the Fort Bend County Crime Victims’ Response Team 2011 recipient of the Carol Rees Award for Outstanding Service to

• • •

Crime Victims Volunteer trainer for the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Lecturer for the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy Faculty Advisor for the Texas District & County Attorneys Association Advanced Trial Skills Course

City facilities: *Police and Fire Departments, 3849 Cartwright Rd. *City Hall, 1522 Texas Pkwy. *Permits & Inspections in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy. *Human Resources in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy. *Municipal Court, 3845 Cartwright Rd.

Fort Bend ISD Board adopts resolutions for the Texas 85th Legislative Session As the Texas 85th Legislative Session nears in January 2017, the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees developed a comprehensive legislative agenda in five key areas in support of the 74,000 students who attend Fort Bend ISD schools and of the 10,000 employees who work on behalf of these students to help meet their education needs, while allowing for efficient and effective operation of schools.

On October 17, 2016, in a Regular Board Meeting, the FBISD Board unanimously adopted five resolutions with specific details of each of the legislative priorities, sharing the following unified message to all involved: “We believe all children can learn; we have high expectations for each of the students we serve; we want to use all resources to make a difference in the lives of each child; the future of Texas depends on educating our growing enrollment with diverse needs; and the public schools are charged by the Texas Constitution with this great mission for Texas.”

The five resolutions as adopted by the FBISD Board of Trustees are: •Making School Finance a Legislative Priority •Making Constitutional Support of Public Schools a Leg-

Vote for Republican Judge Chad Bridges for Fort Bend County 240th Judicial District Court.

islative Priority •Making Accountability and Assessment a Legislative Priority •Making Streamlining the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) a Legislative Priority •Making a Funding Amendment to Senate Bill 507 a Legislative Priority “It is very important that the community hears the voice of this Board loud and clear, which is unanimous in the adoption of all five of these resolutions,” said Kristin Tassin, Board President. “I am grateful to the Board members for reading each of these complete resolutions into the record, before we voted on them. The resolutions include our legislative priorities and include practical solutions for our legislators to support when they convene in January 2017.”

Fort Bend ISD encourages parents, staff and community members to join the District by reading the resolutions, staying informed and contacting their representatives.

If you have questions or would like additional information, go to fortbendisd. com or send your inquiries or comments to Fort Bend ISD’s Let’s Talk.

*Recreation and Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr. *Police Department MiniStation, 1700-A Texas Pkwy. *Fire Station 1: 3849 Cartwright Rd. *Fire Station 2: 12043 McLain Blvd. *Fire Station 3: 2496 Texas Pkwy. *Fire Station 4: 5955 Sienna Pkwy. *Fire Station 5: 190 Waters Lake Blvd. For more information, contact Officer Heard at 281.403.5825 or Battalion Chief Braswell at 281.403.4350.

• Judge Bridges met Claudia Torres Bridges at The University of Houston Law Center and they have been married for almost 20 years; they have a son Matthew and daughter Lauren. They are parishioners at St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land.

Early Voting Oct. 24 - Nov.4, 2016 General Election: Nov. 8,2016 Website: www.judgechadbridges.com Political advertising paid for by Judge Chad Bridges Campaign in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. Campaign Treasurer Emily Hillsman CPA, PO Box 307, Brookshire, Texas www.JudgeChadBridges.com

Re-Elect

RICK

MILLER T E X A S S TAT E R E P R E S E N TAT I V E DISTRICT 26

Our Veteran Conservative Leader Born to Lead…

A Life of Service to the Country and Texas ★ Graduate of the United States Naval Academy ★ Masters Degree from the National Defense University ★ 30 Year Career as a Naval Officer, Carrier Aviator • Served in Top Senior Leadership Positions ★ Business Owner ★ Member of the 1968 Olympic Exhibition Baseball Team

www.vote4rickmiller.com

Vote to re-elect

A Career of Accomplishment ★ Successfully led numerous Navy units to #1 ratings of performance • Commanded a Squadron, Air Wing and Air Station • Carrier jet pilot with experience in nearly all carrier aircraft • Served as Senior Fellow on the Navy’s Strategic Studies Group, designing the Navy’s capabilities of 2030 to 2050 ★ Consistent top rated personal evaluations throughout military career • #1 in competitive ratings on personal evaluations ★ Experienced in designing major budget issues with Congress, State of Texas, Church and Business • Executed budget authority for billions of dollars in operational assets and expenditures and successful in each case ★ Held top-level positions in two public companies before starting a business focused on leadership development ★ Chairman of the Republican Party of Fort Bend 2007-2011

RICK MILLER

for State Representative District 26 Election Day is Tuesday, November 8. Early Voting is October 24 to November 4. pd pol ad • Rick Miller Campaign, Bruce Bond, Treasurer

Getting Results for the people of District 26, Fort Bend County and Texas ★ The Veterans’ Voice in the Texas House/Legislature ★ Member of the Appropriations and Public Health Committees ★ Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Articles I, IV and V of the Biennial State Budget ★ Authored or co-authored noteworthy state and local legislation: • State of Texas biennial budget of $209.4 B • Major issues of Border Security, Transportation, Healthcare and Education • UH Sugar Land campus – transferred 16 acres of land from TxDOT for the purpose of building additional facilities • Transferred Owens Road to Fort Bend County to facilitate safe travel and mobility • Authorized Fort Bend County to regulate, license and inspect game rooms to curb illegal gambling • Reformed Judicial Bypass process for minors seeking abortion • Addressed end of life issues for hydration and nutrition in a natural death process • Pastor protection regarding lawsuits and criminal prosecution regarding their religious beliefs • Multiple bills supporting Veterans and their families

Born to Lead…

Proudly Serving

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 2, 2016

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LUNG CANCER AWARENESS EVENT Wednesday, Nov. 9 | 6 p.m.

Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Each year, lung cancer accounts for more deaths than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined.

Join us for a lung cancer awareness event to learn more about risks, screening, diagnosis and treatment of the disease. A short discussion led by our lung cancer experts will be followed by an opportunity to speak one-on-one with members of the lung cancer team.

Registration required. For more information or to register, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/sl-lungseminar or call 281.274.7500.

16655 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77479

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