Fort Bend Independent 110718 by Fort Bend Independent

VOL 11 No. 45

email: editor@ independent.com

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2018

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City

Warriors Remembered documents 100 Vietnam memorials It mattered not what politicians argued. It mattered not what history would reveal. We had no expectation but to serve where duty called us. We asked for no reward except a nation’s thanks.

The rain-streaked face of this marine cannot help but haunt veterans who have lost a friend in their arms. This Vietnam War Veterans Memorial in San Antonio is featured in Warriors Remembered: Vietnam Veterans – Welcome Home, a photo documentary of 100 Vietnam veterans memorials from all 50 states, published by Col. Albert J. Nahas (Retd.) who lives in Sugar Land. Visit www.warriorsremembered. com.

Austin High School Marching Band & Angels Dance Team Advance To State Championship On October 6th, the S. F. Austin High School Marching Band, Angels Dance Team, & Color Guard performed this year’s show “Mary,” and won 1st Place in Class 3A at the Houston Bands Of America Regional Championships in Conroe. In addition to winning 1st place in Class 3A, they also won Best Music, Best Visual, and General Eﬀect. After receiving straight 1s at the UIL Region 13 Contest at Hall Stadium in Missouri City, the SFA Marching Band advanced to the UIL Area E 6A Contest on

October 27th at the Challenger Columbia Stadium in Webster. At the area contest, they ﬁnished in 5th place, which qualiﬁed them to advance to the UIL State Marching Band Contest held on November 5th & 6th at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The title of this year’s show is “Mary,” and is a musical and visual journey of the story of Mary Poppins and the magical events of Cherry Tree Lane. The music in the show comes from the well-known movie Mary Poppins. Band Director, Ryan

By SESHADRI KUMAR “Warriors Remembered” is different from memorials of other wars. Here you will find no white granite generals or parade ground uniforms. “Rather these memorials include names of the fallen engraved on black granite, dark bronze fighting men, or the wounded and the nurses who cared for them. Often they reflect the anguish of war and its aftermath,” says Albert J. Nahas, A West Point graduate, with 26 years of military career behind him. The 240-page, coffee table book took six years and 35,000

miles in the making and in 285 photos conveys the stories of the struggles and dedication of the memorial creators and highlights Vietnam memorials’ unique diversity and their impact on the nation. Nahas researched and compiled the list from out of hundreds of memorials scattered all over the country, visited these locations , spoke to the people who erected the memorials and took photographs. “The book is dedicated to all American warriors and the my 29 West Point classmates lost in Vietnam and it represents “Thank you for your service” and “Welcome Home” that many Vietnam veterans have never heard,” Nahas says. Each memorial tells its own distinct story. The Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial, for example, is unique. More than 58,000 Americans gave their lives during the Vietam

war. Among that number, 1105 were Kentuckians. The blue-gray granite plaza of the Memorial contains the names of Kentucky’s 1105 citizens who died. Each name is precisely located so the shadow of the sundial pointer, touches each veteran’s name on the anniversary of his death. Thus, each individual is honored with a personal tribute. Accordingly, every day is memorial day for a Kentucky Vietnam veteran. There is a Vietnam war memorial in Houston too on Bellaire Blvd. in southwest Houston and the Vietnamese community established this memorial. The book won the 2016 Gold Medal Award based on content, visual, style and technical from Military Writers See WARRIORS, Page 3

Demkovich said, “Their hard work and dedication to this program is inspirational to me and everyone that comes in and works with them. The UIL State Marching Contest is the premiere marching contest in the state of Texas, and is one of the most competitive marching contests in the entire country. This is a special group of students and we are all very fortunate to have this opportunity to share in this accomplishment together.” For more information, go to http://www.sfaband.org/. Austin High School Marching Band & Angels Dance Team with the Texas trophy.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Christmas Home tickets now on sale

Anna Pack, left, of The Design Firm, Child Advocates of Fort Bend Development Oﬃcer Lisa Moore, Home Tour Committee Member Simmi Chaudhary, Kara Wuellner of The Design Firm and Home Tour Committee Member Dana Looper.

Visit fbindependent.com or https://www.fortbendcountytx. gov/government/departments/county-services/elections-voterregistration/election-results for the Nov. 6 general election results. Fort Bend Independent will carry complete results of local races and analysis next week.

Tickets to the 27th annual Child Advocates of Fort Bend Christmas Home Tour are now available online at www. cafb.org and at Fort Bend area Randalls stores. The Christmas Home Tour features ﬁve private homes in Fort Bend County beautifully decorated for Christmas. Neighborhoods and homes vary each year, so guests who have been to the Home Tour before are guaranteed to see something new each year. This year’s homes are in historic Richmond, Lakes of Williams Ranch, Alkire Lake, Sienna Plantation and Sienna Point. One ticket allows entry to all homes during tour hours, allowing busy guests to see the Tour all at once or visit a few homes each day, depending on their schedule. The Tour runs Friday, December 7 from 10am until 4pm and 6pm until 9pm and Saturday, December 8 from 10am until 4pm. A complete list of ticket sales locations is available at www.cafb.org. “Our plans for the Christmas Home Tour are in full swing,” stated Child Advocates of Fort Bend Development Oﬃcer Lisa Moore. “We’ve got a lot of fun things in store for Home Tour guests

this year, including our 5th annual wreath raffle. We’re in historic Richmond and Sienna Point, two neighborhoods that are new for us. There will be refreshments in all of the homes – home baked cookies in three houses, appetizers in one courtesy of Dream Dinners Missouri City and an ice cream cart in another home, courtesy of Southern Ice Cream. In addition, Santa will be on-hand at one of the homes and we’ll have valet parking available for guests at two of the five homes on Friday evening.” The Home Tour is a fun event but, most importantly, it is a fundraiser. Nationally, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the age of 18 and it is estimated that only 1 in 10 ever tells anyone. “The number of children and families served by our Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) increased 25% in 2017 alone and has increased 58% in the last five years. In fact, by August 31, we had conducted more forensic interviews for children who made outcries of abuse than in all of 2017,” stated CEO Ruthanne Mefford. “By sponsoring or participating in

the Home Tour, you can help us ensure that all child victims of abuse get the therapy and healing services they desperately need.” The Home Tour is one of Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s largest fundraisers. In fact, 94% of the money raised by the tour goes toward programs and services. Sponsorships are still available for $100 - $15,000. “All sponsors who are participating at the $375 level and above are invited to the Sponsor Party prior to the Home Tour and they are in for a real treat this year,” stated Moore. “Our Sponsor Party will be held at The Design Firm. If you haven’t been there before (and even if you have), you’re in for a real treat. There are rooms and rooms of displays in every corner. Between the catering by Churassco’s, an edible gingerbread house, homemade macarons and a festive signature cocktail – you are guaranteed to leave there in the holiday spirit!” To become a sponsor or to volunteer or for more information go to https://www.cafb. org/events/home-tour/ or contact Lisa Moore at 281-3445108 or lmoore@cafb.org.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018

NEWS

Avery Upchurch & Olivia Tolle

Emily Shih & Skylar Shaw

the highest honor awarded. “With this piece, I took my mood for the day and created something that was creative and functional,” Shaw said. “We have many advantages in our art program at FBCA. Mr. Sanders is beyond helpful and inspirational.” Other top rosette winners included lower school student Olivia Tolle, middle school student Avery Upchurch

Fort Bend Christian Academy students from every grade division (lower school, middle school and upper school) took home top art awards from the Fort Bend County Fair. The 2018 Fort Bend County Fair Open Youth Grand Prize winners in the upper school included Emily Shih & Skylar Shaw, who both received “Outstanding Entry Rosette,”

and upper school student MacLayne Rylands. Fort Bend Christian Academy’s visual and performing arts programs have been recognized with a multitude of awards over the years including: TAPPS 5A One Act Play State Champion, All-Star Cast, 1st Place Ready Writing, TAPPS 5A State Arts Champions, TPSMEA AllState Band, 1st place TAPPS Solo and Ensemble Festival and TPSMEA Region Honor Choir. “The Fort Bend Christian Academy Fine Arts Department endeavors to provide an educational and spiritual environment in which God reveals His creative nature through our students,” said Fine Art Department Head Robert Sanders. “We desire that students grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ as they develop the artistic gifts given them by their Creator.” For more information, schedule a campus tour at www.fortbendchristian.org/ tour.

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

Harvest Green Serves Up Fall Favorites at Harvest Fest Nov. 10. A fête of fall favorites is on the menu at Harvest Green with the return of Harvest Fest 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10. Now in its third year, Harvest Fest takes place at the Richmond community’s model home park, 618 Vineyard Hollow Court. It is both a celebration of autumn and an opportunity for the public to experience the Richmond community’s farm-centered lifestyle. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. “What’s fun about our Harvest Fest is that we have actual harvests,” said Haley Peck, marketing director for Harvest Green. “Our farmers and residents plant seasonal crops so there’s always something being picked. This year’s Harvest Fest is going to be bigger and better than ever with tons of traditional activities, as well as a few fun twists like pumpkin bowling.” Fall-themed activities will include apple bobbing, pumpkin decorating for the kids and games. An artisan market will feature local vendors selling unique items just in time for the holiday shopping season. Back by popular demand will be the pie-eating contest. This year, there will be three competitions — two for adults and one for kids. The winner of each contest will receive a sweet reward in the form of a $50 gift card. Additional activities include a DJ, a face painter, a balloon twister, four inﬂatable bounce houses, an obstacle course, sack races, pet adoptions, a rock wall and a ﬁre truck. Hungry festival goers can snack on kettle corn and pizza. Food trucks including Anna’s Greek Gourmet, Craft Burger Bus, Renegade Kitchen & Catering, Wylie Street Tacos and Mary Had a Little Party will have food for purchase. Adults 21+ can purchase wine and beer. For more information about Harvest Green, visit https://www. harvestgreentexas.com.

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INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018 • Page 3

NEWS

Stafford mobile home residents literally raise a “stink” at city hall By BARBARA FULENWIDER The fix will no doubt take a while but the citizens who live in Stafford’s Fountainhead Mobile Home Villa on Brand Lane are hopeful city council can help them get a positive change. Jeff Hutchinson, who has lived in the mobile home park for 17 years, made a presentation to Stafford City Council members and showed them numerous pictures of flooding in the park and standing water with fecal matter in it that pops up from the sewers on the property after a heavy rain. Hutchinson brought a root ball with fecal matter in it to council so they too could experience what his neighbors go through every time there is a big rain event in Stafford. Council members smelled the obnoxious odor for close to two hours Hutchinson and council discussed the plight. Police Chief Richard Ramirez told council he had received five complaints from the park’s residents about raw sewage on the property. “Each time we’ve been notified of raw sewage we send an inspector out and they never locate any,” the chief said. He also said his code enforcement officers inspected the whole facility and noted all violations found at the park. Ramirez said the park has 135 lots and that most of the violations they found were caused by the tenants while few were the responsibilities of the park owners. Hutchinson said, “We are here to address the health and safety of the children and ourselves in the park.” Then he thanked councilmen, A.J. Honere and Wen Guerra “for coming out and visiting with the residents and seeing first hand the sewage in the water. When the rain water is gone the sludge and residue are still there and dangerous. “One trailer on the property is locked in by water when it rains and they have two little boys who like to play in it. They are playing in contaminated water.” He said the sewers on the

property were made of clay that cracks. Then weeds grow through the cracks and clog the sewers which then overflow with fecal matter. They need to be replaced, Hutchinson said, “so the situation won’t happen again and again.” He said sewage came into his home through the commodes, ruined everything inside his home and cost him $22,000 to repair it. Then he pulled out the smelly root ball he had brought to council and said, “because the park refuses to fix the sewage system, it smells like this in our corner of the lot all the time. It’s a sad situation. “We are coming to you to ask for your help with this because the park is broken and the owners won’t fix it. They are putting kids at risk every time it rains because the water they are looking at can make them sick. It also damages our vehicles that have to drive through the lakes to get to the street.” Then he asked council to “beef up the language in its ordinances that you already have and apply it to this type of business. I don’t think that’s unreasonable to ask.” Hutchinson also said since the code officials “say they don’t see fecal matter in the water, it seems disingenuous.” He went on to tell council that 120 of the 135 lots in the park are occupied. The average monthly rent is $540, which means the owners get $65,000 a month in rent. “The land was paid for years and years and years ago,” he said, so they have no debt. The owners of Fountainhead park, which is a small one, own 42 parks they operate in 7 states and 10 are in Texas. “Some of their parks have 300 to 400 mobile homes in them so they are making more than $32 million a year,” Hutchinson said. The spokesman also told council that all they are asking is to “make sure the common systems in the park are maintained. We are asking you to use the same language for us that you do for home renters. We just need your help. “This company intimidates

the residents, they tow their cars and do all kinds of things to the Hispanic people. They play nice with y’all and are Mr. Hyde to us. What we see is the exact opposite of what you see,” Hutchinson said. He closed by saying: “On behalf of my neighbors and friends, I ask you to act tonight. I really need your help to solve this issue, to make this management company do their part. I ask you guys to do your part. You are our last resort.” Stafford Mayor Leonard Scarcella then asked if Hutchinson and his neighbors had any specific allegations against the city concerning their health and safety and he said they did not. Then he asked Hutchinson if he had tried to get the owner to address their concerns and the group’s speaker said, “They came and had a public meeting with us, gave us mouth service and then nothing happened.” Then the mayor asked the city’s attorney if council has the authority to strengthen ordinances in regard to private mobile homes. Art Pertile said, “You have to be careful what you ask for. You’ve got to look at the older parks when you make those regulations.” He went on to say that when the regulations cost the owners they will pass those costs on to the renters and then “nobody there originally can afford to stay there. The city regulations will cost that business and they pass that cost on. Mobile home parks are here to stay. We can put regulations on them but they come with a cost and the cost will go to the renter,” Pertile said. Then Scarcella asked Pertile to “look at the regulations that are out there” and then told Hutchinson and his group: “We recognize what the challenges are to us and what the city has to do and then we’ll see what is reasonable, proper and appropriate to address your problems. We don’t want to see anyone’s health and safety jeopardized.”

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital physician treats aFib with ‘watchman’ Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the first in Fort Bend County to treat atrial fibrillation (aFib) not caused by a heart valve problem with a tiny, permanent implant called the Watchman™. The procedure was successfully implanted in a patient on Nov. 2 by electrophysiologist and cardiologist, Jie Cheng, M.D. The Watchman is an FDAapproved alternative to blood thinning drugs such as warfarin, which are typically prescribed to people who suffer from aFib to prevent strokes. “Because of their irregular heartbeat pattern, patients with aFib often experience blood pooling in a pocket of the heart called the left atrial appendage,” said Cheng. “Over time, that pooled blood can coagulate and cause clots to form. If a blood clot escapes the appendage and moves into an artery, it can eventually block the flow of blood to the brain and cause an ischemic stroke.” Research shows that 90 percent of the stroke-causing blood clots that come from the heart formed in the left atrial appendage. The Watchman works by plugging off the appendage and preventing blood

Cheng from pooling and clotting. Cheng says the Watchman is designed for patients who can no longer take blood thinners due to complications, such as people with a history of major bleeding due to the drug’s side eﬀects, or those who are at higher risk of bleeding from an injury due to active lifestyles or hazardous work. “The long-term use of a blood thinner creates a higher risk of major bleeding in patients, so the Watchman is a welcome alternative,” said Cheng.

In fact, clinical studies show that 99 out of 100 people fitted with a Watchman can stop taking a blood thinner one year after the procedure. The Watchman is implanted through a narrow tube that is inserted through a small incision in the patient’s leg and guided to the left atrial appendage. It takes Cheng about an hour to implant the device, and most patients will go home the next day. “Eventually, heart tissue grows over the Watchman to form a natural barrier against blood clots,” said Cheng. Cheng plans to continue implanting the Watchman in aFib patients who need an alternative to blood thinners to reduce their risk of stroke. “The Watchman has been studied for more than 10 years, and more than 50,000 people have received the implant,” Cheng said. “It’s a safe alternative that can provide a very significant benefit for patients.” To schedule an appointment with Jie Cheng, M.D., call 281.205.4514. To learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland.

The Vietnam War Memorial at 11360 Bellaire Blvd. in Houston, donated by the Republic of Vietnam Army vets.

Warriors

From page 1 Society of America (MWSA), earned top spot on the Summer 2016 MWSA Recommended Reading List, got the 2015 Excellence in Print Media Award from Texas Daughters of the American Revolution, and was selected for the Army–Navy Club Book Forum Vietnam War Series A portion of the proceeds from this book will be donated to the maintenance funds of those memorials still without government sponsorship. Warriors Remembered is available for $49.95 at www. warriorsremembered.com. email: warriorsremembered@ gmail.com Born into an Army family, Albert Nahas, from his earliest recollection, was drawn to join the company of soldiers. He joined the Army in June 1967 as a Lieutenant from West Point and found his way to Vietnam in July 1968. Wounded soon after in the A Shau Valley at what a year later would be called Hamburger Hill, he worked his way back from a hospital in Japan to his same platoon in C Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. He spent 18 months with that battalion until February 1970 as a platoon leader, reconnaissance platoon leader,

company executive oﬃcer and company commander. His twenty-six-year military career alternated between infantry and engineer units, teaching at West Point, developing new weapons and equipment for the Infantry, and deploying for a brief time to Desert Storm. After retiring as a Colonel, he had success in manufacturing, power plant construction, and operating a global broadband telecommunications network. He founded and still leads Focused Leadership, a very

successful executive coaching company. Colonel Nahas is the recipient of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star for Valor with ﬁrst Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart and several other awards, but takes the greatest pride in his Combat Infantry Badge, Senior Parachutist Wings, Ranger Tab and being a Screaming Eagle combat veteran. He is a registered Professional Engineer. Colonel Nahas and his wife Carolyn currently live in Sugar Land.

John Healey Retirement Roast Benefiting the charity of your choice, either... Parks Youth Ranch, Fort Bend Women’s Center, or Child Advocates of Fort Bend

Thursday, November 15, 2018 Doors Open at 6 PM ... Dinner at 6:45 PM Italian Dinner served Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 - Room: “The Lodge”, Cash Bar Master of Ceremonies... Sheriff Troy Nehls

Visit Johnhealeyroast.com After 26 years of service to Fort Bend County, four sheriffs, over six elections, scores of prosecutors, and thousands of legal cases, the guy with good hair and humor is saying good bye. Come to order or maybe it is disorder, as we come together to roast our friend John Healey. Sheriff Troy Nehls will be serving as Master of Ceremonies and several special guests will be joining in the teasing. Forget the black tie it’s no formal affair, Just come as you are for that business flair, We’ll roast and toast as we all reminisce,It’s a gathering for a friend that will surely be missed. To purchase your tickets by check... Make your check out to the charity you would like to support. Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB); Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC); Parks Youth Ranch (PYR) $50 per person. Please indicate on your check if you will be attending or if your check is for DONATION ONLY. Mail your check to: Dottie Allen, 8746 Ruston Ridge Dr. Richmond, Texas 77406 This entire event is graciously underwritten by Allison and Cassandra Wen and Safari Texas Ranch

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018

OPINION

How does diversity aﬀect business?

By REHAN ALIMOHAMMAD & MICHAEL J. DOBERT Diversity is defined as individuals representing more than one national origin, color, religion, socioeconomic echelon, gender, etc. Specifically, diversity may best be defined by any way in which we are different which includes the aforementioned, as well as influences in how we grew up such as generation impact, family influences, cultural beliefs and practices/ celebrations, and Cognitive Diversity: Differences in perspective or information processing styles. Fort Bend County, with approximately 685,000 people and on track to exceed 800,000 in the next five years, is widely considered one of the most diverse counties in the entire country with 64% of the current population considered minorities. What does this mean for businesses? How does this affect the bottom line? With diverse backgrounds comes different thinking and greater creativity giving businesses a competitive advantage. So as businesses embrace this diversity through its ownership, management, and key employees, they would be more able to utilize this advantage. McKinsey & Company’s research shows that genderdiverse companies are 15% more likely to outperform their peers and ethnically-diverse companies are 35% more likely to do the same. In the United States, there is a linear relationship between racial and ethnic diversity and better financial performance: for every 10 percent increase in racial and ethnic diversity on the senior-executive team,

earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) rise 0.8 percent. Catalyst research shows that companies with more women on the board statistically outperform their peers over a long period of time. “Mirroring the community can lead to a boost in productivity, customer satisfaction, and earnings.” Deloitte Australia research shows that inclusive teams outperform their peers by 80% in team-based assessments. “Companies that embrace diversity and inclusion in all aspects of their business statistically outperform their peers. In today’s working world, your ability to attract and engage people of all ages, cultures, backgrounds, and types is paramount to your business success.” Why? Neurological research compiled by David Rock and others shows that our most productive, innovative, and collaborative times at work happen when we feel like we are a part of the team. “People perform best when they feel valued, empowered, and respected by their peers. When we feel included and respected, our bodies create hormones and healthy energy that raises our performance at work.” Research by Cedric Herring at the University of Chicago concluded that “Diversity yields superior outcomes over homogeneity because progress and innovation depends less on lone thinkers with high intelligence than on diverse groups working together and capitalizing on their individuality.” His statistical research found that across hundreds of companies, diverse teams drive 6% greater revenue, 15% more customer wins, and create significantly higher market

share. These teams work better together, innovate more, and come up with superior customer solutions.” The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce has an initiative called the Diversity Action Team (DAT) comprised of members from diverse backgrounds and occupations to help ensure that the Chamber not only completely represents the county, but also to ensure that more businesses can take advantage of the beneﬁts of the chamber making the county economically stronger. The DAT programs help educate the business community regarding diversity and its importance. Based on the above research, if Fort Bend is the most diverse county in the country than becoming the most successful county is next. Rehan Alimohammad, an Attorney and CPA, is Chair-Elect for the Five-Star Accredited Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and a Partner at Wong Fleming, one of the largest minority owned law firms in the country. He served as Minority Director for the State Bar of Texas, and in 2017 became the first Asian and first attorney from Fort Bend County to become Chair of the Board for the State Bar of Texas. You can contact him at ralimohammad@wongfleming.com or 281-340-2074. Michael J. Dobert, S.P.H.R., SHRM-SCP, Past Chairman of the Five-Star Accredited Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, currently serves as the Governance Chairman. He is the Owner of HR in Alignment, L.L.C. providing strategic Human Resource Consulting services. You may contact Mike at mdobert@hrinalignment. com or 281-494-2985.

COMMENTARY

Does “Robin Hood” school ﬁnance really take from the rich to give to the poor?

By JIM RICE When I was a boy, I read the adventures of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Along with his compadres Little John and Friar Tuck, Robin would waylay rich travelers to relieve them of their gold and then distribute to those oppressed by the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. It was a good story and over the years, many movies about Robin Hood have been made none more famous perhaps than Errol Flynn’s “The Adventures of Robin Hood”. In 1994, the Texas Supreme Court issued a ruling that required property wealthy school districts to share their tax revenue with less property wealthy school districts. It was called “recapture” but it quickly earned the nickname “Robin Hood”. The way it works is simple. As a school district’s assessed property value increases in value, the state applies a formula to determine if the district will be subject to recapture. This comes about when the first dollar of a school district’s maintenance and operation tax rate applied to the total taxable value within their appraisal district and then divided by the student average daily attendance exceeds $514,000 per student. If it does, the amount exceeding this threshold must be paid directly to the state of Texas by the school district. This is called recapture or “Robin Hood” and most notably ALL recapture dollars are comprised of LOCAL property taxes. A recent article in the Texas Tribune cited a report by the Governor’s office on school finance. This report is available online at the Texas Tribune. In it, the report stated in part, “As property values have increased, more districts have entered recapture and those districts in recapture have seen their payments continue to increase. Further “If current trends hold for the next decade…

“Robin Hood” payments may form a larger percentage of school funding than state tax dollars by 2028.” This means in little more than nine years, taxpayers could be paying more to the state in recapture payments than they are receiving from the state to help fund school district operations. “Robin Hood” has been working very well for the state. In 1994, 34 school districts paid the state of Texas 131 million dollars in recapture payments. However, in 2018 the number of districts paying recapture and the amount contributed rose to 191 school districts writing checks to the state of Texas of just over 2 billion dollars in recapture payments. These payments are projected to rise to over 2.6 billion dollars in 2019. There are over 5.3 million children attending public school in Texas. Sadly, many of them who come from school districts subject to recapture or “Robin Hood” are living in poverty. In many of our large urban school districts, the majority of their students are economically disadvantaged. Is it fair to rob school districts of their own local funding – the funding they need to meet the needs of their children, by a school funding formula the Texas Supreme Court has called byzantine, antiquated and in need of reform? I would argue that it is not.

So does “Robin Hood” take from the rich to give to the poor. When you consider that “Robin Hood” has continued to rob property wealthy school districts of needed revenue (local tax dollars) which hurts our economically disadvantaged children the most one wonders in this case if “Robin Hood” and the evil Sheriﬀ of Nottingham are not one and the same. All of our children deserve a quality education. The legislature has a constitutional duty to support and maintain a system of public schools in this state (Texas Constitution Article 7, Section 1). State statute imposes a further duty upon the legislature: “The mission of the public education system of this state is to ensure that all Texas children have access to a quality education that enables them to achieve their potential and fully participate now and in the future in the social, economic and educational opportunities of our state and nation” (Texas Education Code §4.001). Just as we hold our school districts accountable for student achievement, we should also hold the State Legislature accountable for supporting a public school system that provides a quality education for all students as the state constitution requires. The Legislature needs to uphold its constitutional duty to support and maintain a system of public schools in Texas, and fund it adequately and equitably. Let us focus our eﬀorts on improving our public schools, which have and always will educate the majority of our students. If you agree, let your legislators know. (As the eighth largest school district in Texas, Fort Bend ISD is the most diverse school district in the state. Jim Rice was elected to serve on the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in May 2010. These comments are his alone and he is not speaking on behalf of the Board.)

MIKE’S MONOLOGUE

It happened at night By MICHAEL GRANTO For about thirteen years, my wife Barbara and I had two cats. They were brother and sister, from the same litter. Now, getting two cats was something that happened in steps. When we first moved from one apartment to another in our complex, there was a feral cat that hung around that we called First Kitty, because she was the first kitty that we had, so to speak. She found hanging around us beneficial, I guess. Barbara used to feed her string cheese sometimes, and I remember that she would hold out a few strings, and First Kitty would reach for it, using her paw almost like a hand. It was such a pleasant interval in the late afternoon, watching Barbara and First Kitty bond over string cheese. Now, she adopted us at the first apartment we had, and we got to like her a lot. We noticed, though, that she wasn’t visiting us at the second apartment. We figured out that between the first apartment, at one edge of the complex, and the second apartment, at the opposite edge of the complex, was a territory that was claimed by another cat, evidently a feline tyrant, and Kitty was very reluctant to cross it. We developed a system, and it worked quite well. When I came home from work, I’d park the car, and walk over to the other edge of the complex. I’d call Kitty’s name, and jingle my car keys. It didn’t take her long to figure out that the jingling keys meant that she could come out from wherever she was hanging out, and I’d pick her up and carry her through the tyrant cat’s territory. She had already worked out not only that the jingling keys meant transport, but that, as long as she was carried by her adopted daddy, she had nothing to fear from the tyrant. I’d get her home, and we’d shower her with treats and affection for a while, then I’d take her back through the tyrant cat’s territory, to her territory. It worked out well for First Kitty, and for us. Eventually, First Kitty moved on, but such are the ways of transient feral kitties. For a few weeks, we gave her treats, and affection, and protection, and she gave us the feline equivalent of the same. So, First Kitty was the first step. Sometime later, a friend of Barbara’s happened to mention that she had multiple cats, but that one of them never came out from under the bed, except in the dead of night, to use the litter box, principally because the other cats picked on it. Barbara’s friend seemed to think this cat thought it was a human, and that she needed a human or two of her own. We decided to call her “Miss Kitty.” This had nothing to do with “Gunsmoke,” but more to do with her regal, haughty, bearing. She simply assumed she was the reigning monarch, and was there to be worshiped. But, like most monarchs, she had a few quirks. For example, she did NOT LIKE having her nails cut. That required two people and a towel. Barbara held her wrapped in a towel, and I searched out her feet one at a time and cut her nails. It usually took her two days to forgive me. Miss Kitty was, indeed, special. She was a Birman cat. Try to picture a long-haired Siamese with four white feet. This is an east Asian breed, and the legend says that these cats were temple cats, and that one day, their temple was raided by robbers. The cat’s master was killed in the raid. The cat jumped on her master’s chest, guarding his body, protecting it as best she could from the robbers. The old master died, and when his soul passed from his body, it passed through the four feet of the cat guarding him, turning them white. At the same time, the cat was gazing up at the statue of a goddess, who had lovely blue eyes. As the old master’s soul passed, the cat’s eyes turned the

Granto same lovely blue as the statue’s. A noble heritage, you might say. Whenever she entered a room, she would sort of pose as she walked, and she’d announce herself with some kitty noises. Miss Kitty eventually passed, too, but we’re glad she permitted us to worship her for however long. So, Miss Kitty was the second step; now we’re closer to having two cats. Our apartment was at the back edge of the property, and just a few steps from our patio was a twenty-foot high ficus hedge, which was a gathering place for the neighborhood feral cats. A lady a couple of apartments over from us used to bring out one of those aluminum foil roasting pans full of dry cat food every afternoon. For some time before she brought it down, the cats would start to gather, until it looked like Lion Country Safari in our back yard, with a dozen or so cats lounging about, looking up at the lady’s balcony every so often. She had an ulterior motive for this largess. She had a Hav-AHart trap that would capture a cat with no harm. She’d place the trap along the ﬁcus hedge, and when it caught a cat, she’d bring the cat to a retired veterinarian she knew, and he’d sterilize them for a nominal fee. Well, one cat didn’t get caught soon enough, and she had one last litter. Our two cats came out of that litter. They were housed temporarily at the house of a friend of the feeding lady, and we went to see them. When it came time to pick cats, we kept the feeding lady’s advice in mind: Two cats are no more trouble than one, really, and they keep each other company. Well, I picked the male kitten, a nice gray one with a white tip on his tail. Barbara picked a female that had sort of Siamese cat coloring, and we all got in the car and headed home. On the way home, I asked Barbara if she was happy with out

choices. She said “Yes,” but the tone in her voice said otherwise. The feeding lady stopped the car, and asked if Barbara wanted to go back. Now, Barbara hates to put anyone out, but we all agreed that it was a good idea to go back. We did, and put the gray kitten back with his littermates. Barbara picked out another male, this one with a tabby coat. He was actually sort of striped, which led to Barbara’s choice of a name for him: “Tigger,” after the character in the “Winnie The Pooh” story. She later said, that as we left the room with our choices, she looked back at him, and he was looking right at her, as though to say, “What about me?” His sister was initially named “Roo” after one of Tigger’s little friends. I say “initially,” because one day I came home from work to ﬁnd that her name had changed to “Sally.” When I asked why that was, Barbara simply replied that all kitty names should have two syllables. Who knew? But now, we had two cats, and we had them for thirteen years. They gave Barbara many hours of cuddling and enjoyment, and I grew to like them quite a bit myself. Tigger acted like a typical big brother, not exactly bullying his sister, but certainly lording it over her. However, I noticed several times that there would be a small patch of hair missing from his neck or head area. Barbara and I discussed it, and we came to the conclusion that sometime during the night, when we were asleep there were some dominance struggles going on. They went on silently, because we were never awakened. Apparently, Tigger was given notice several times by his smaller sister that his overbearing attitude was not acceptable. Whatever happened, it happened at night. But you know, we never found any marks on Sally. I found that quite remarkable. (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.)

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 17, 2018 a default judgment may be taken against you. The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 17-DCV-247447 and is styled: Dwayne J. Briscoe vs. Melvin Vigo Rivera The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: CALEB D VILLARREAL THE KOKS FIRM 502 FAIRDALE FRIENDSWOOD TX 77566 281-210-2457 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: WHEREFORE, MR. BRISCOE REQUESTS THAT DEFENDANT BE CITED TO APPEAR AND ANSWER AND THAT ON HEARING THE COURT ENTER JUDGMENT: 1. DETERMINING THE SHARE OF EACH JOINT OWNER OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN. 2. MR. BRISCOE SEEKS A DETERMINATION THAT SUCH PROPERTY AND THE SALE PROCEEDS THEREFROM BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE PARTIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR RESPECTIVE INTERESTS IN THE PROPERTY AND RETAINING SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO PAY ANY TAXES OR FEES. 3. APPOINTING A RECEIVER TO SELL THE PROPERTY AT A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SALE, FOR CASH, SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION BY THIS COURT UPON SWORN REPORT OF SUCH SALE. 4. ORDERING DEFENDANT TO REIMBURSE MR. BRISCOE FOR ONE-HALF (1/2) OF THE EXPENSES RELATED TO THE PROPERTY FROM JULY 2014, UNTIL DATE OF JUDGMENT TO MR. BRISCOE. 5. AWARDING MR. BRISCOE RECOVERY OF COSTS, FEES, INTEREST AND SUCH OTHER RELIEF TO WHICH MR. BRISCOE MAY BE JUSTLY ENTITLED. 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 30th day of October, 2018. ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, DISTRICT CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Physical Address: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 31004 Richmond, Texas 77469 Mailing Address: 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 By: Deputy District Clerk Salena M. Jasso Fort Bend County, Texas

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

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. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018 • Page 5

NEWS

Local attorney takes issue with Free vaccinations and dental screenings New York Times report shaming Sugar Land over its past

On Oct. 27, the New York Times carried an opinion page article by Brent Staples under the heading,“A Fate Worse Than Slavery, Unearthed in Sugar Land.” Excerpts from the article: Bodies of sugar cane workers recently discovered in Texas reveal gruesome details about the convict leasing system. The blood-drenched history that gave the city of Sugar Land, Tex., its name showed its face earlier this year, when a school construction crew discovered the remains of 95 AfricanAmericans whose unmarked graves date back more than a century. The dead — some of whom may have been born in slavery — are victims of the infamous convict leasing system that arose after Emancipation. Southerners sought to replace slave labor by jailing African-Americans on trumpedup charges and turning them over to, among others, sugar cane plantations in the region once known as the Sugar Bowl of Texas. A bitter debate has erupted in Sugar Land, a fast-growing suburb southwest of Houston. Sugar Land oﬃcials, who want to move the remains to a nearby cemetery, are at odds with members of a city appointed task force who rightly argue that a historical find of this magnitude should be memorialized on the spot where it was discovered. Against this backdrop, archaeologists, who are constructing an increasingly detailed portrait of the injuries and illnesses suﬀered by these inmates, have opened a window onto the murderous nature of sugar cultivation, an industry that earned its reputation as the slaughterhouse of the transAtlantic slave trade by killing more people more rapidly than

any other kind of agriculture. When the forensic report is finished, Texans will have a clearer vantage point on how the sugar barons enriched themselves by systematically working people to death. The city of Sugar Land, which keeps a deliberate distance from this history, needs to make room for it in the upbeat narrative it uses to promote itself. Following this report, Russell Jones, a former Sugar land City Councilmember and attorney, sent this rejoinder to New York Times. To the Editor: Yes, it is regrettable that history is what it is. However, as history, it is permanent and immutable. We can wallow in that history and shame ourselves, just as some unknown reporter from New York has done. That reporter, of course, lives in a city and works for a newspaper that has deemed everything about Texas to be deplorable, long before Hillary Clinton gained notoriety for saying it out loud. Are these not the same people who are the philosophical descendants of Andrew Jackson, who created the Democrat party, who lived and thrived upon the labor of slaves, and who forced the Indians down the Trail of Tears? Let’s not forget that John C. Calhoun, the foremost proponent of slavery in Congress, was a Democrat. Are these not the same people who live and breathe upon the strength of their identity politics, which, of course, puts them into the role of master of the inner-city plantations of today? Finally, let’s not forget that the Republican Party has been the target of these people and their predecessors for the last 155 years, nor that there is not

a single recorded incident of an elected Republican in the United States Congress that owned a slave. Let it be known that I was born in 1949, and I have never contributed anything to history which occurred before that date. Should Sugar Land be abandoned and left vacant simply because of events, which can only be reviewed retroactively as regrettable or shameful? Am I supposed to forever bear the historical burden of those who happened to reside in the same area 100 years ago? As a factual matter, the people in the area were not even my ancestors. How is it that I am expected to be ashamed of the history of the area? I moved to Sugar land in 1996 in large part because it was the most exciting growth area around Houston. It has continued to be, and nothing about ancient history can change that. To the extent that I may have contributed to its history, I am proud of what I have done. I accept neither credit nor liability for anything that went before. Let it be said that the New York Times can take its attempt to somehow shame and discredit the city of Sugar Land as it exists today solely because of long ago historical events which occurred at a time when absolutely no one here now was even alive, and should instead look at itself, its current history, and its sycophants who are in the process of destroying the nation, and consider its own role in the future of the world, and whether it wants to be remembered as the cesspool that brought down the world’s greatest experiment in capitalism and democracy.

SSLW hosts “Make a diﬀerence day” and “Literary cafe”

Make A Difference Committee: Chase Smith, ten years old; Donisha Smith, Chair; Mable Scott Austin,President; Tomika Lewis, Co Chair Dr. Devette George,Co Chair; and Mose Austin, CEO, and Judeene Edison, Co Chair,not in the picture. The Suburban Sugar Land tary gift bags were given to menting this successful serWomen (SSLW) hosted Na- all residents, which included vice project. Walk to End Alzheimer is tional Make a Difference Day body wash, socks, shampoo, the world largest event with recently at Brazosview Health and conditioner. Lastly, SSLW provided all 600 plus communities naCare Center in Rosenberg, with residents and staff with on site staff with thank you tionwide participating to raise engaging fellowship, deli- WalMart gift cards for mak- awareness and fund for Alcious food, and fantastic fun ing a difference in the com- zheimer’s care, support, and munity. October birthday research. Patrick Jean Louis activities. First, the fun – filled day celebrants enjoyed a delicious ,SSLW Project Chair, cheerfully assisted in registration. began with a complimentary, birthday cake. “ A Literary Café” hostSSLW thanked Brazosview home – cooked breakfast by East Beast Catering which Health Care Center’s residents ed Delta Sigma Theta consisted of eggs, biscuits, and staff; Ms. Keisha Butler, Sorority,Inc, Suburban Housoatmeal, grits, bacon, sausage, Activity Director ; Chase, ton – Fort Bend Alumnae and orange juice for 25 resi- eleven years old volunteer; Chapter showcased 15 redents and 9 staff. Then, Ms. East Beast Catering for serv- nowned authors, 13 unique Barbara, the yoga instructor, ing complimentary break- vendors, live entertainment, instructed residents on how fast; and Alief Hasting High and 200+ attendees at this free to do yoga from their chair School TAFE’s volunteers for and open to public event held in Missouri City. this included stretching and serving. Mable & Mose Austin, Kudos to Donisha Smith, breathing exercises. The residents said they felt very relax Project Chair and Judeene SSLW’s Founders, provided ed and enjoyed the yoga exer- Edison, Tomika Lewis, & Dr. desserts and voters informaDevette George, Project Co tion materials. Serena Wright cises. Next, residents played bin- Chairs for their exemplary – Bostic, Arts & Letters, go in which they were highly leadership; they collaborated Chair; Kadiatu Maddox, Co engaged, laughed, and had a biweekly for months in de- Chair; & Evelyn Peters Dean, good time. Later, complimen- signing, planning, and imple- Chapter President.

The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center and Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Houston/Galveston have joined forces to bring free medical and dental mobile clinics to children in Fort Bend County. Free immunizations and dental screenings will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 10 at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery

Center,198 Kempner St. Sugar Land, TX 77498 Participants must be in line prior to 12:30 p.m. to ensure registration. No pre-registration is required but space is limited. Parents and guardians must bring child’s immunization records and must accompany child. Transportation for $2 per person roundtrip is available

through Fort Bend County. Call (281) 633-7433 for availability and to make transportation reservations. The Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles are operated by Texas Children’s Hospital and UTHealth School of Dentistry at Houston. For more information, visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb. org or call (832) 742-2800.

Fulshear Marketplace to bring boutique shopping and restaurant environment

Houston-based Capital Retail Properties, a full-service commercial brokerage and development firm, has purchased a prime, five-acre site on the northeast quadrant of FM 1093 and 359 in Fulshear for a 17,200-square-foot retail center and pad offerings. Dubbed Fulshear Marketplace, the project is anticipated to break ground in fall 2019, and pre-leasing is now underway. At the crossroads of the community, immediately across 1093 from a proposed H-E-B and the Fullbrook on Fulshear Creek residential community, Fulshear Marketplace will also be in close proximity to Fulshear High School and Cross Creek Ranch, encompassing nearly 6,000 home sites. The Houston office of Gensler was selected to design the center, which takes full advantage of elevated placement on the hilly property, framed by mature trees. According to Capital Re-

tail Properties’ Connor Lynch, who is overseeing leasing with associate Jacob Weersing, “Our goal for Fulshear Marketplace is to introduce a boutique, upscale shopping, services and restaurant environment that meets the demands and expectations of this picturesque pocket of affluent and rapidly growing northwest Fort Bend County.” Tasked to create a standout experience for the important intersection, Gensler has created a facade that harnesses variety and a stylistic use of materials to reference local architecture with a nod to the past. Special elements include unique brick patterns and corbeling; timber entry canopies and trellis; and vertical metal and plank paneling. The overall design offers a more contextual look and feel by breaking down the overall elements to fit the scale of the community. A corner anchor space proposed for a food and beverage tenant is expressed and enhanced with large partially

covered patio feature. Capital Retail Properties is a full-service commercial real estate ﬁrm specializing in the development, marketing and disposition of anchored and shadow anchored retail shopping centers, as well as tenant representation and retail land sales. Regarded as the premier landlord and tenant representation team in Greater Houston with decades of collective experience and a reputation for doing the job right, Capital Retail Properties is also known for its deep base of relationships within the retail tenant rep brokerage community, resulting in key intelligence on brand expansion plans and new site opportunities before news reaches the market. Unrivaled insights and instincts have led the company’s tenant rep clients to the best developments and allowed landlord rep clients to maximize the value of their investments with occupancy rates well above market averages.

Friends of Mamie George Branch Library host annual book sale

The Friends of the Mamie George Branch Library will host their Annual Book Sale on Friday, November 16, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm, and on Saturday, November 17, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, in the lobby of the library, located at 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford. People who love books, people who love bargains, and people who need to get rid of some spare change will find a lot in common at the book sale. Gently used hardcover children’s and adults’ books will be available for sale for $1.00 each, DVDs will be $1.00/disc, and paperback books will be 25¢. The Friends of the Mamie George Branch Library organization is instrumental in funding library materials not covered in the regular library budget. Proceeds from the book sale and annual membership dues also help to underwrite the costs of special programming at the Mamie George Branch Library. For more information, call the Mamie George Branch Library at 281-238-2880 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.

INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018 • Page 6 FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 10 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RULES AND PENALTIES Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 10 (the “District”) at a meeting held on October 25, 2018, adopted (1) an Order Establishing Rules and Regulations Regarding Use of District Rights-of-Way containing certain rules and regulations regarding the use of District owned or controlled rights-ofway or easements upon which such improvements are located; and (2) a Stormwater Guidance Manual containing rules and regulations related to the proper use and maintenance of the District’s storm sewer system, including prohibitions on illicit discharges, pollutant discharges from construction sites, and pollutant discharges from post-construction sites. Violation of any of the rules contained in the District’s Stormwater Guidance Manual is considered a violation of the District’s Order Establishing Rules and Regulations Regarding Use of District Rights-of-Way and will subject the violator to penalties as outlined in the District’s Stormwater Guidance Manual or Order Establishing Rules and Regulations Regarding Use of District Rights-of-Way, including a fine of up to $10,000 per breach and/ or day, payment of any costs or damages resulting from the violation, and civil and criminal legal action. A copy of the Order Establishing Rules and Regulations Regarding Use of District Rights-of-Way and the Stormwater Guidance Manual are on file at the principal office of the District, Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP, 3200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 2600, Houston, Texas 77027, where they may be read in full. /s/Don Burns President, Board of Directors FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 15 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RULES AND PENALTIES Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 15 (“District”), at a meeting held on October 17, 2018, adopted a Stormwater Guidance Manual providing rules and regulations for compliance with the District’s Stormwater Management Program by all of the District’s stormwater system users. The purpose of the rules and regulations is to reduce the discharge of pollutants to protect water quality, pursuant to the Clean Water Act and the Texas Water Code. Violation of any provision contained in the District’s Stormwater Guidance Manual may subject the violator to charges, fees, penalties, termination of water and sewer service, and/or payment of any costs or damages resulting from the violation. A copy of the Stormwater Guidance Manual is on file at the principal office of the District, The Muller Law Group, PLLC, 202 Century Square Boulevard, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, where it may be read in full. /s/ Darrell W. Groves President, Board of Directors

FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 149 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RULES AND PENALTIES Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 149 (“District”), at a meeting held on October 22, 2018, adopted a Stormwater Guidance Manual providing rules and regulations for compliance with the District’s Stormwater Management Program by all of the District’s stormwater system users. The purpose of the rules and regulations is to reduce the discharge of pollutants to protect water quality, pursuant to the Clean Water Act and the Texas Water Code. Violation of any provision contained in the District’s Stormwater Guidance Manual may subject the violator to charges, fees, penalties, termination of water and sewer service, and/or payment of any costs or damages resulting from the violation. The Board of Directors of the District, at a meeting held on October 22, 2018, also adopted an Amended Rate Order (“Order”), providing rules and regulations for connection to the District’s water, sewer, and drainage system as well as charges for these services. Violation of any of the rules contained in the Order will subject the violator to penalties, which include a fine of up to $10,000 per breach/day, disconnection of water and sewer service, payment of any costs or damages resulting from the violation, and civil and criminal legal action. Copies of the Stormwater Guidance Manual and Order are on file at the principal office of the District, The Muller Law Group, PLLC, 202 Century Square Boulevard, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, where it may be read in full. /s/ Susan Winters President, Board of Directors FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 19 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RULES AND PENALTIES Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 19 (“District”), at a meeting held on October 19, 2018, adopted a Stormwater Guidance Manual providing rules and regulations for compliance with the District’s Stormwater Management Program by all of the District’s stormwater system users. The purpose of the rules and regulations is to reduce the discharge of pollutants to protect water quality, pursuant to the Clean Water Act and the Texas Water Code. Violation of any provision contained in the District’s Stormwater Guidance Manual may subject the violator to charges, fees, penalties, termination of water and sewer service, and/or payment of any costs or damages resulting from the violation. A copy of the Stormwater Guidance Manual is on file at the principal office of the District, The Muller Law Group, PLLC, 202 Century Square Boulevard, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, where it may be read in full. /s/ James W. Green President, Board of Directors

City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE The City of Missouri City, Texas is now issuing an Invitation for Bids for the following: IFB #18-182 REGIONAL WATER TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION PHASE II (20 MGD) Bid responses will be accepted until 2 P.M. local time December 11, 2018 and then opened. Project Description: Complete treatment will be provided by the following unit processes: 1. Raw Water Pump Station -An additional raw water pump will be installed into the existing pump station along with related piping and appurtenances. 2. Pretreatment Area- Two additional flocculation trains and an additional sedimentation basin with inclined plate settler system. The existing distribution channels will be enlarged along with related piping and appurtenances. 3. Membrane Building -Two additional membrane feed pumps, One additional automatic selfcleaning strainer, Five additional microfiltration units, Two additional microfiltration backwash pumps, an additional blower, expansion and upgrading of chemical conveyance, and storage systems. 4. Solids Handling- An additional2.0 meter belt filter press, additional gravity thickener, additional inclined plate settler system to the process water recovery basin, equalization basin, and a cloth disc filter. 5. Controls -The existing SCADA system will be expanded to account for the additional equipment that is provided. Related work includes but is not limited to: 1. Related electrical and instrumentation work for the project. 2. Related site/civil work for the project. 3. Related HVAC improvements. The successful contractor shall provide labor, materials, equipment and transportation necessary to perform the work necessary as shown in the contract documents. There will be a MANDATORY pre-bid conference and site visit at 9:30A.M. local time November 14, 2018 in the City Hall Council Chambers at 1522 Texas Parkway in Missouri City. Attendance of the site visit is a requirement of all Bidders. Bid packages with drawings and specifications are available beginning October 30, 2018 from the project engineer via CivCast. Please visit www.civcastusa.com Bids must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with “IFB #18-182 REGIONAL WATER TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION, PHASE II (20 MGD)” along with the date of the bid opening. Bids must be delivered to the attention of the Sealed Bid Box, City of Missouri City Purchasing Office, 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, Texas, 77489, prior to the acceptance deadline. Bids marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Bids are opened in public in the City Hall Council Chambers. October 26, 2018 Shannon Pleasant Purchasing and Risk Manager City of Missouri City, Texas

AUTOMOBILE: Dodge Ram 1500 By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Ram 1500 Lone Star, the brand’s top-selling truck in Texas, offers buyers a no-compromise balance of strength, capability, technology and comfort. It packs innovative design and has high quality materials and class-exclusive technology. Ram leads the full-size truck segment with the most safety and security features and delivers significant gains in fuel efficiency with an all-new eTorque system in both V-6 and V-8 configurations. Overall weight for the Ram 1500 has been reduced by 225 pounds. The all-new 2019 Ram 1500 Lone Star was built to pull heavy loads, haul supplies over gravel roads and plow through the elements. It can haul up to a 2,300-lb payload or tow up to 12,750 lb that is best in class when outfitted with an eTorque tow package. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 in the Ram 1500 makes 395 hp and 410 lb-ft torque and eTorque can add 130 lb-ft more. The Pentastar V6 makes 305 hp and 269 lb-ft torque and can add 90 lb-ft more with eTorque. The 5.7L HEMI has regenerative braking, stop/start capability, a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack and an on-board 12 kw motor/generator. The electric motor is to provide more supplemental power during acceleration and passing.

Stop/start helps improve fuel efficiency up to 3.3 percent with the engine on/off operation. Regenerative braking uses the on-board electric motor to convert energy to recharge the battery system. The stop/start system is completely transparent, and a dash-mounted system-disable switch lets the driver turn it off if desired. Luxury means having a quiet, smooth most comfortable ride and the all-new Ram 1500 has it thanks to a classexclusive multilink coil spring rear suspension, a new crew cab that adds 4 inches to the interior length and provides both best-in-class rear leg room, available class-exclusive 3 reclining rear seats and best-inclass interior background noise dampening. Truck owners appreciate fine technology and the allnew Ram 1500 delivers. It in-

cludes SiriusXM, an available 12-inch touchscreen media center, and the available most powerful audio system in its segment from Harman Kardon, which has a 900-watt ampliﬁer and 19 speakers. Safety features on the test drive Ram 1500 Lone Star Crew Cab included remote keyless entry, rear back up camera, theft deterrent system, rain brake support, tire alert, tailgate ajar warning lamp, electronic roll mitigation, electronic stability control trailer sway damping, and capless fuel ﬁll. Optional equipment includes cargo tie down hooks, LED bed lighting, spray-in bed liner, 8.4-inch touchscreen display, Apple Car Play, Google Android Auto, 8-way driver seat, power adjustable pedals, sliding rear power window, rear window defroster, Siriux XM Radio, tri-fold Tonneau cover,

anti-spin diﬀerential rear axle, 9 speakers with subwoofer, wheel to wheel side steps, 20inch aluminum chrome clad wheels, remote start and front and rear park assist with stop. There is extensive use of genuine wood, metal and leather throughout, heated/ventilated front and rear seats and the three reclining rear seats. The Ram 1500’s base price was $41,895 and the destination fee was $1,645. It had a lot of optional equipment on it, which brought the price to $53,835. The 2019 Ram 1500 provides an outstanding ride for a truck, has a spacious and thoughtful cab, and plenty of power thanks to the HEMI V8. It’s a truck to take anywhere – rock climbing, the beach or opera. It is deﬁnitely one hauler that will no doubt meet all your trucking needs.

Sienna Plantation Sip & Stroll celebrates local flavors Nov. 15 Indulge in a festival of flavors while helping families affected by cancer during Sip & Stroll at Sienna Plantation 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15. The Fort Bend community’s new Sawmill Lake Club, 10323 Mount Logan, will serve as the candlelit backdrop for the Fort Bend community’s signature event showcasing local fare, fine wines and craft beer. “Sip & Stroll is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best Fort Bend has to offer,” said Alvin San Miguel, general manager for Sienna Plantation. “Guests can nibble at the social bar, relax in front of the fire pit with a glass of wine and enjoy the company of friends — all while doing good for others.” The $65 ticket include food, wine and beer as well as a ‘smores bar and music. Tickets can be purchased at www. siennaplantation.com/sipandstroll. Guests must be age 21 or older to participate. For each ticket sold, $20 will be donated to A Shelter for Cancer Families. The organization provides free, tangible support in the Texas Medical Center to families affected CAUSE NO. 18-CPR-032144 THE STATE OF TEXAS ESTATE OF AJ FANIEL, DECEASED YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED TO SUMMON THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF AJ FANIEL, all of whose names, residences, and whereabouts are unknown to Plaintiff(s), DAVID LOTT by publication of this Citation once, at least ten (10) days previous to the return day hereof, in some newspaper published in your County, to appear at the next regular term of the County Court at Law 3 sitting as the Probate Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, after service has been perfected, to be held in the Fort Bend County Justice Center, 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, thereof in Richmond, Texas, the same being Monday, the 29th day of October, 2018, then and there to file a written contest or answer to the Amended Application filed in said Court on the 8th day of October, 2018, in a probate action now pending in said Court in the above numbered and styled Estate on the Probate Docket of said Court, wherein, DAVID LOTT is Plaintiff and the UNKNOWN HEIRS of said Deceased are the Defendants; allegations as shown in said Amended Application now on file in the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office. HEREIN FAIL NOT, but have you before said Court, at the time aforesaid, this Writ, with your return thereon, showing how you have executed the same. GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL OF SAID COURT, at office in Richmond, Texas, this the 9th day of October, 2018. LAURA RICHARD, COUNTY CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 1422 EUGENE HEIMANN CIRCLE MAILING ADDRESS: 301 JACKSON, SUITE 101 RICHMOND, TX 77469-3108 Amanda McWhorter, Deputy

Sienna Sip & Stroll will feature a number of local restaurants 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at the community’s Sawmill Lake Club. The event benefits A Shelter for Cancer Families. by cancer. “ASCF provides shelter from the cancer storm,” said Missy Amschwand Bellinger, co-founder of the organization. “That shelter comes in many forms including — but not limited to — housing outof-town cancer families, providing navigators to families throughout the cancer journey and helping those we serve to celebrate the milestones that are important to them in the midst of the cancer experience.” A long-time resident of Sienna Plantation, Bellinger is grateful to have the support of her community. “I feel blessed to live in Sienna where I see community

values put into action every day,” Bellinger said. “As a ‘bedroom community’ to the Texas Medical Center, Sienna is a convenient home to many of our doctors, nurses, health care professionals, volunteers and also to some of the cancer families we serve.” A number of restaurants will participate in Sip & Stroll, including B’s Wine Bar, Texas Biergarten, Fajita Pete’s, Bernie’s Burger Bus, Malawi’s Pizza, Bean Here Coﬀee, The Lot Pub, Vino & Vinyl, Texas Leaguer Brewing Company, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, Renegade Kitchen & Catering, Sweets in the Sky and Eddy’s Pizza. Guests also will be able to

meet with area businesses including Smart Financial, Gary Greene Better Homes & Gardens, Loam Agronomics, Floral Inspirations by Elizabeth Ann and Sienna Dermatology. Bellinger urges everyone to come out and enjoy the evening. “Encourage your neighbors to join you,” she said. “Make it a girls’ night or invite friends from outside of Sienna to celebrate one of Houston’s greatest places to live. Feel good knowing that in doing so, you are providing much needed support to families aﬀected by cancer.” For more information about Sienna Plantation, visit www.siennaplantation. com.

Operation Thanksgiving— Stuﬀ the Squad Car & Fire Truck

In the spirit of giving, “Show Me City” citizens and staff will partner again this year to host the 10th annual “Operation Thanksgiving— Stuff the Squad Car & Fire Truck!” on Saturday, Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Public Safety Headquarters, 3849 Cartwright Rd. All City departments are collaborating to sponsor the operation and donations will assist families in need during the holiday season. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to come out and fill at least 10 police squad cars and two Fire & Rescue Services trucks with

canned and non-perishable food items. The goods will be donated to Bethel Ministry, Palmer House and Second Mile Mission Center. If residents would like to drop-oﬀ donations before Saturday, Nov. 17, they are welcome to deliver them to the following City facilities: Police and Fire Departments, 3849 Cartwright Rd. City Hall, 1522 Texas Pkwy. Permits & Inspections in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy. Municipal Court, 3845 Cartwright Rd. 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 5: 190 Waters Lake Blvd.

Over the years, thanks to the generosity of residents, employees, churches and community groups, the event has consistently exceeded its collection goals and continues to attract major donors from around the region.

INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018 • Page 7

COMMUNITY NEWS Ellis-Eldridge House is the 2018 Ornament Old-fashioned Christmas dance of the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation at Candlelight Ball & Tours

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation has announce The Ellis-Eldridge House as the 2018 Ornament. Each year, the Sugar Land year, the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation features a treasured historic building or site in Sugar Land. This year we are proud to present the Ellis-Eldridge

House as the 2018 Ornament. These high-quality brass ornaments come individually packaged in a beautiful gift box which includes a printed information card about the ornament. Littleberry A. Ellis constructed this circa 1870s house on his Sartartia Plantation, acreage now part

of the Telfair development. Convict persons built the structure entirely of cypress wood fastened together with wooden pegs instead of nails. In about 1906, Imperial Sugar Company’s managing partner W. T. Eldridge moved the house to a location immediately southwest of where University Boulevard crosses Oyster Creek today, near Constellation Field. There he resided and managed Imperial Sugar’s interests in its newly-purchased Sartartia Plantation. After acquiring Colonel Edward H. Cunningham’s mill and refinery two years later in 1908, Eldridge moved it again to a location adjacent to the east side of today’s Imperial Sugar char house where he could keep a close eye on refinery and other company town operations. Eldridge lived in the house until 1927, until he moved to the mansion he built located near the southwest corner of Lakeview Drive and Eldridge Road. The house by the Char House became known as the Imperial Coffee Shoppe. Four years later in 1931, Mrs. Annie Allbritton moved in, subrenting rooms to various Sugar Landers until 1963 when it was torn down to make room for refinery expansion. Ornaments are on sale now online, or at the Sugar Land Visitors Center at 198 Kempner Street in Sugar Land during regular operating hours. Ornaments will also be on sale at the Farmers Market at Imperial on Saturday December 1, December 8, and December 15 from 10 am to noon. Ornaments are $25 each and all proceeds benefit the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation.

Travel back in time with the Fort Bend Museum Docents for “An Old-Fashioned Christmas Dance” at the 1883 John & Lottie Moore Home! Set for November 30 through December 2, this year’s Candlelight Ball & Tours will bring to life an event that was discovered only recently in the Fort Bend Museum’s archives. “Earlier this year, the Docent committee stumbled upon a newspaper clipping that described Miss Ivy and Mr. Raymond Moore hosting an ‘Old-Fashioned Country Dance’ at their family’s home,” said Ginger Walker, Fort Bend Museum Docents vice president and co-chair for the Candlelight Ball & Tours. “This event began with the Moore children planning and inviting their friends informally, but eventually turned into a party for the whole town as their parents became involved and invited their adult friends, too.” Guests danced the night

away and were served dinner at midnight, followed by breakfast in the morning before the guests left the party, Walker said. “The Docents are very excited to re-create this community Christmas dance for the Candlelight Tours,” she said, “and we can’t wait for guests to step into the past with us and re-live this fun-ﬁlled night at the Moore Home!” This year, the Tours will again include light refreshments and interactive vignettes – one of the most popular new additions to the event last year. The Candlelight Ball will take place on Friday, November 30 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will include special candlelight house tours, heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine and a silent auction. Dress code is black tie optional. Members of the Fort Bend History Association are free; non-member tickets are available for $50 each. The Candlelight Tours will

take place on Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2. Times for the Saturday Tours are 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Times for the Sunday Tours are 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets for the Candlelight Tours are $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors. All proceeds beneﬁt the educational and preservation eﬀorts of the Fort Bend Museum. For more information about the Candlelight Tours, or to purchase tickets, visit http:// www.fortbendmuseum.org/ candlelight-tours.html or call 281-342-6478. The Fort Bend Museum is located at 500 Houston Street in Richmond. General admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+) and $5 for children ages four through 12. Operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the Fort Bend Museum, visit fortbendmuseum.org or call 281-342-6478.

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Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 7, 2018