Fort Bend Independent

VOL 2 No. 47

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com .fbindependent.com ww

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009

Flu Shots boost toy drive

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in collaboration with Fort Bend Exchange Club, Sugar Land Exchange Club and Sugar Land Rotary, provided free flu shots to community members who participated in Santa’s Gift Exchange. Fort Bend residents brought new, unwrapped toys or clothing items in exchange for a flu shot. Santa’s Gift Exchange will provide toys and clothing to more than 3,500 economically disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. Top Row: Kaelyn Stolhand; Lowell Stanton, CFO at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital; Betty Baitland, Sugar Land Exchange President; Dan Green, Rotary Club of Sugar Land President; Julie Hung, M.D., Methodist Family Medicine Group. Bottom Row: Leala Hall; Armando Saenz and Leena Taneja. “We were very pleased to see such a large turn-out on Saturday morning.

It is great to work and live in a community that can come together for a wonderful cause that will benefit the children in our community. We are proud to partner with the local exchange and rotary clubs to provide this community offering and plan to do so again in 2010,” said Taneja. “A special thank you to the 200 plus people who attended the free flu shot and Santa’s Exchange event, as more children will now get the present they deserve,” said Stanton.

Wish Upon a Season celebrates fathers & daughters

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

Mayor faces gunman after ‘smashing’ burgers

By SESHADRI KUMAR It was an eventful day for Sugar Land Mayor Jimmy Thompson.

After participating in the grand opening of Smashburger, a fast food restaurant and presiding over the city council meeting, Thompson returned home shortly before 8 p.m. on Nov. 17 when he was robbed at gunpoint in his driveway.

Thompson complied with the gunman’s demand, gave him about $80 that he had and threw his credit cards on the ground.

Thompson was unhurt.

The gunman made Thompson crawl under the car and ran away with the mayor’s cell phone.

Thompson rushed in to his house and called 911. In less than two minutes the police arrived.

“I was scared to death. Still am,” Thompson told a press conference at the Sugar Land police station next morning.

“Now, I am really mad, mad that it happened in Sugar Land,” Thompson said.

Thompson said he was thinking he was going to get shot and decided not to be combative. The whole incident lasted not more than 30 seconds or less than a minute, he said.

“It could happen to anybody. People should be aware,” Thompson said. The city would continue to enforce the objective of being the “safest city,” he said.

Thompson said he did not carry a gun, though he is a U.S. Air Force veteran. He was not sure if the incident would make him procure a

Fast-casual restaurant, Smashburger, celebrated their grand opening Nov. 17 at 2623 Town Center Blvd., with the help of Sugar Land Mayor Jimmy Thompson, above, and Smashburger GM Aaron Johnson. Smashburger hosted a group of 200 Sugar Land families for burgers and shakes through the night.

Brinkley described the inconcealed gun.

Thompson felt that it was a cident as a “crime of opporturandom incident and he was nity,” and complimented the not being targeted because he mayor for doing exactly what he was expected to do. was the mayor.

The CrimeStoppers have Sugar Land’s Police Chief Doug Brinkley said the de- announced a $5,000 reward scription of the suspect for anyone providing informatched a suspect in a similar mation leading to an arrest and conviction in the case. robbery in the city recently.

New flood risk maps ready for inspection

Honorees for the 2009 Wish Upon A Season Gala - Dr. Scott Breeze with daughter Ava, Will Hardee and daughter Heather Gobert, Chris Breaux’s daughters Kimberly and Aimee Breaux (Chris was not present), Don Kerstetter and his daughter Grace. Not pictured: Quinn Wright and daughter Caylin.

The Casa de Esperanza-Fort Bend Gala Committee hosted a Champagne reception last week, underwritten by Cassandra and Allison Wen, to celebrate and thank the sponsors of the third annual Wish Upon A Season holiday extravaganza.

The event is on Friday, Dec. 4, at Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464 in Richmond.

The proceeds from the event will benefit Casa de Esperanza-Fort Bend to help them to continue and expand crucial services to their foster/adoptive children and their families in Fort Bend County.

This year’s theme for Wish Upon A Season 2009 will be “Stars of Today and Tomor-

row.” The honorees are Fort Bend fathers and daughters who are current and future stars in our community, providing vision and commitment of their time and talent in support of civic and charitable organizations in Fort Bend.

On Dec. 4, Casa de Esperanza-Fort Bend will pay tribute to Don Kerstetter and daughter Grace, Dr. Scott Breeze and daughter Ava, Quinn Wright and daughter Caylin, Will Hardee and daughter Heather Gobert, and Chris Breaux and daughters Kimberly and Aimee. For more than 27 years, Casa de Esperanza has provided residential, medical and psychological care—without charge—to special-needs

infants and young children (ages six and under) who were in crisis because of abuse, neglect, or the effects of the AIDS virus. Casa de Esperanza-Fort Bend is only the second organization nationwide and the single organization in Texas to recognize and respond to the need for specialized residential care of children infected with HIV/AIDS, and has been serving HIV-positive children longer than any other agency in the country. In addition, the organization supports 15 foster and 10 adoptive families and their children who reside in Fort Bend County. For sponsorships call Gina Miller at 281-491-6440 or 281-7735700.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently presented draft flood risk maps to communities in Fort Bend County.

The maps identify known flood risks and are used for insurance and development decisions.

The flood maps include a re-study of the Brazos River and Oyster Creek in Fort Bend County.

County Judge Bob Hebert said, “We encourage Fort Bend County residents to take the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the flood risk in the community by visiting the “Drainage District” website located at this link: http://

fbcmap.co.fort-bend.tx.us/ floodplainmap/ The maps can help residents make informed decisions about flood protection.

“In addition to the information provided on the website, numerous workshops will be held around the county in the near future. Citizens will have every opportunity to view the maps and ask any specific question they may have.”

The new maps are based on detailed ground elevation models, decades of rainfall and storm gauge information and current topographic data.

Residents and property owners may submit scientific or technical information if they believe the flood maps contain errors.

The city of Sugar Land is soliciting requests for interest from potential developers for a minor league baseball stadium and an indoor concert venue in the proposed entertainment district at the University of Houston site and U.S. 59. The goal is to open the baseball stadium by April 2012 and the concert venue in January 2013. The city also plans to create a Tax Increment Redevelopment Zone for 700 acres including the UH site and the Telfair commercial reserve.

See story on Page 3.

Introducing the new Back Pain Program at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

Relief is within reach

It’s time to start experiencing relief with a personalized treatment plan from our new comprehensive Back Pain Program. Our skilled health team specializes in joint and back pain, offering both minimally invasive surgical techniques and noninvasive treatments.

To learn more, call 281.725.5225 or visit SugarLandBackPain.com.

Appeals are submitted through communities to FEMA, and FEMA will notify communities, insurance companies and residents of the effective date of the final maps after resolving all appeals.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident.

FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Fort Bend Independent wishes all its readers and advertisers a Happy Thanksgiving.

Page 2 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 25, 2009

UR E TO es M O H EST & Hom voted B nd Lifestyles t

by For

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NOVEMBER 25, 2009 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • Page 3

Community news Sugar Land places baseball stadium, concert venue on fast track

By SESHADRI KUMAR Sugar Land City Council has blessed a plan to solicit proposals for a minor league baseball stadium and indoor concert venue in the proposed entertainment district near the University of Houston Sugar Land campus.

As efforts to develop the entertainment district slowed down, the city decided to take the lead and accelerate the process.

Latest discussions that the city had with the Astros in April have not yet yielded any results.

Similarly, the discussions that the city had with AEG in May for the concert venue also remained dormant, especially because of the current economic conditions, Joe Esch, executive director for business and intergovernmental relations, told the city council at a workshop last week.

Instead of waiting for ideal developers and picking and choosing the potential partners, the city will now throw open the field to all interested parties as there have been numerous inquiries from various sources, Esch said.

The city is soliciting proposals from interested developers this week.

The city has a tentative time table to receive the proposals in December for the baseball stadium and evaluate them in January 2010.

A development agreement is expected to be reached in March 2010, with construction set to begin in early 2010, and an expected opening date in April 2012.

The stadium is expected to be ready in time for the 2012 season.

Since the baseball stadium project is less complicated and has to be completed by early 2012, the city will move forward with that project first.

Also, the city is considering the development of a festival site in conjunction with the baseball stadium.

The stadium will be on land that the city has leased from the University of Houston.

For the concert venues, proposals will be received in February 2010. After evaluating them in

March, development agreement can be reached in mid-2010, with final agreements in place before January 2011.

Construction of the concert venue is likely from May 2011 to December 2012, with a possible opening date in January 2013.

Another factor in expediting the projects is the prevailing low construction costs, Esch said.

The city has the ability to use a part of the city sales tax for developing the entertainment district.

Also, the city will be able to levy special venue taxes for parking and ticket sales.

Along with the entertainment district, the city is planning to establish a tax increment reinvestment zone to expedite commercial development in the area.

The proposed zone comprising 700 acres will include the entertainment district and Telfair commercial reserve.

The TIRZ will provide an additional tool for financing some infrastructure development as well as public facilities, according to Regina Morales, director

Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!

Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com

of economic development.

The city also owns 95 acres that it purchased form Telfair.

Preliminary estimates indicate that the TIRZ would spend $55 million for public infrastructure subject to the participation of the city and the county.

The University of Houston is also included in the TIRZ. To place the TIRZ on the fast track, the city sought a waiver from the county from the required 60-day notice period and last week, county commissioners approved the waiver.

Commissioner Richard Morrison voted against the waiver and Commissioner Andy Meyers gave a conditional vote.

Meyers has reservations about using county tax dollars for commercial development.

The city was scheduled to make a preliminary presentation on the proposed TIRZ to the commissioners court this week.

The city will hold a public hearing on the creation of the TIRZ on Dec. 4.

W NE

G IN ST I L

SUGAR LAND/COMMON- Suzette Peoples WEALTH. Over 4000sqft! 5 ABR, GRI , E-Pro, bedrooms 3.5 baths, game 21 years Professional room, study/formal and extra Realtor; Owner of room. Seller has updated Peoples Properties, a carpet, tile granite counters, Real Estate & Property Management Co.; & more in 2009. Roof replaced American Business too. Big yard. Price reduced Women’s Association. to go $300’s.

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Missouri City takes possession of tennis courts, fitness center

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Following last week’s city council meeting, the keys to the Quail Valley tennis and fitness center changed hands.

With the payment of $1,076,001, the 20 tennis courts and recreation center building became the property of Missouri City residents.

At council’s Nov. 16 meeting they authorized buying the facility from the House of Power and Praise church, which had bought it from the owners of Quail Valley Country Club in 2004.

On Tuesday, Nov. 17, the city closed on the property and got the keys.

The city used a special warranty deed in which the owner of the property grants it to the buyer subject to any limitation under which the owner bought the property, said Caroline Kelley, Missouri City attorney.

“We have secured title insurance as well to protect the city

against any claims on the title,” she said.

“The first thing the city is doing is assessing the 8.026 acres for any public health and safety issues and to get it up to code,” said Kelley.

After the initial assessment is made the first type of uses for the property will be made and a timeline established to open some of it up for public use, Kelley said.

“The (20) courts will need to be resurfaced and the pavilion has to have structural integrity.”

At city council’s Nov. 2 meeting they approved advertising for professional services to develop plans for the tennis courts and building to be converted into a public facility.

The tennis courts and recreation center haven’t been used since the spring of 2007.

“The city is currently seeing what we might do to open a part of it and what part that might be,” said Barbara Brescian, city

spokesperson.

“Now that we have the property the city has to hire a firm to help us with the plans,” said Brescian, who added that the process will definitely include public input.

“We need to get the architectural firm on board first so they can manage the process.”

Missouri City received a $1 million matching state grant for parks and recreation and that amount helped pay for the property.

The city has to match the $1 million grant and those dollars can come from voter approved bonds, according to Brescian.

Kelley said, “The church never secured the appropriate zoning to operate a church there so was never able to open its doors.”

City records show that the church’s two requests for a change in zoning were denied by city council on May 20, 2004, and again on Sept. 6, 2005.

Lawsuit over Quail Valley CC acquisition set for trial in January

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Motions to postpone the trial date on the Quail Valley Country Club property from November and continue the hearing for partial summary judgment have both been granted.

The trial date is now set for Jan. 26 and the summary judgment hearing for Dec. 10.

The city’s motion for a partial summary judgment filed in July asks Sandy Bielstein, judge of County Court at Law No. 4, to decide if the city has the right to take the property in the first place under the state constitution and state statutes, and if they do, then what is a fair market value for the taking, said Caroline Kelley, Missouri City attorney.

As for the motion to continue being granted, Kelley explained, “There were still parts of discovery going on, which is likely why the judge postponed the trial – to give everyone time to get everything done.

The judge issued a date for

cutoff of discovery and the date to hear the motion for partial summary judgment. The cutoff for all discovery is Dec. 23. The parties are finalizing discovery and that’s about all that’s going on now.”

Kelley also said, “The city is certain it has the right to take, so I don’t see any concerns on that particular issue. Both parties have presented appraisals regarding what the property is worth and those are quite different.”

The two appraisals the city had done were for $3.1 million and $3.5 million. The QVCC owners say the two appraisals they contracted to have done came in at $13,180,000 and $14,050,000.

Quail Valley CC was deteriorating in 2006 so the owners began closing some parts of it, not maintaining other parts and made it known the 400-acre property was for sale.

In an effort to keep market values up on QV houses, add a major playground and considerable

green space to the city, Missouri City council members authorized staff to look into buying QVCC in March 2007.

The city hired a consultant with the National Golf Foundation to study the feasibility of the city buying the property and the study said go along with members of a citizens feasibility committee representing every neighborhood in Missouri City.

In March 2008 Missouri City made an offer to buy, which the owner rejected. A month later the city began eminent domain proceedings, which will soon land the buyer and seller in court.

Initially, the Quail Valley CC property included two 18-hole golf courses, a nine-hole executive course, clubhouse, tennis courts, a fitness center and swimming pool on 400 acres. Quail Valley CC was built in 1970 and is part of Fort Bend County’s first master planned community.

Share Your Holiday Food Drive Set for Dec. 4 Sugar Land’s Share Your Holiday Food Drive on Dec. 4, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Sugar Land Community Center, 226 Matlage Way, will benefit efforts of the East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry to address the basic needs of local families in crisis. The ministry serves the community’s less fortunate through programs like the Interfaith Food Pantry, the Tri-City Churches Resale Shop, a financial assistance program, food fairs and other special programs.

For more information about Sugar Land’s Share Your Holiday Food Drive, call 281-2752885 or visit www.sugarlandtx.gov.

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Fort Bend Boys Choir open auditions Dec.12; Free tuition for first semester The Fort Bend Boys Choir invites boys ages 8 - 13 with unchanged voices to audition to be a part of one of America’s largest and most prestigious choirs.

Eligible boys will join 28 years of music excellence, travel locally, nationally and internationally on tour, learn multi-cultural music and establish lifetime friendships.

The organization guarantees every choir member a worldclass music education and one of the most significant experiences of his life. Call now to schedule an audition—prior musical experience is not necessary!

The only requirement to audi-

Tour Choirboy Phillip Chong

Bend Boys Choir is that boys must be 8 years old or in the 3rd grade with an unchanged voice.

Open auditions will be held Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m.

– 12 Noon at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, just off Murphy Road.

Thanks to a grant from The George Foundation, free tuition is available for new choirboys their first semester!

For additional audition information, please call the Fort Bend Boys Choir office at 281-2403800 or visit www.fbbctx.org or their new Facebook fan page.

tion for placement into the Fort

Book signing by Martin Thom This winter as you sit by the fireplace and sip on a wee bit of scotch, pick up Martin Thom’s novel, “White Stag to Queen’s Pawn” and enjoy a very relaxing evening.

Yes, it is 700 pages long but a page turner, to be sure. Martin Thom will be signing copies of his novel on Wednesday, Dec. 2 , from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m at Sugar Creek Country Club in the Garden Room.

“White Stag to Queen’s Pawn” is a saga of family and deceit that flows from the Northwest Highlands of Scotland to Houston.

Eilid Stuart is tall and blond with laser-like blue eyes, deadly

with a rifle and, at 21, the only female deer stalker in Scotland.

In January of 1959 she witnesses an airplane crash in a snowstorm in a remote part of

Glen Torridon. She rescues an infant boy, the sole survivor who is returning with his mother to Los Angeles. Martin uses the pen name Martin MacDowell, his grandmother’s name.

So, armed with some mountaineering and deer stalking experience, he started to put his scattered thoughts onto paper. It took him three years to carve out the present saga.

Martin will autograph each novel which he is selling for $20.

The book signing and cash bar at Sugar Creek Country Club are open to the public.

Page 4 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 25, 2009

Opinion Texas Straight Talk Audit the Fed attached as an amendment

By RON PAUL I was pleased last week when we won a vote in the Financial Services Committee to include language from the Audit the Fed bill HR1207 in the upcoming financial regulatory reform bill.

As it stands now, if HR 3996 passes, because of this action, the Federal Reserve’s entire balance sheet will be opened up to a GAO audit.

We will at last have a chance to find out what happened to the trillions of dollars the Fed has been giving out.

Finally, the blanket restrictions on GAO audits of the Fed that have existed since 1978 will be removed.

All items on the Fed’s balance sheet will be auditable, including all credit facilities, all securities purchase programs, and all agreements with foreign central banks.

To calm fears that we might be trying to substitute congressional action for Fed mischief in tinkering with monetary policy, we agreed to a 180 day lag time before details of the Fed’s market actions are released and included language to state explicitly that nothing in the amendment should be construed

U.S. Rep. Ron Paul as interference in or dictation of monetary policy

by Congress or the GAO. This left no reasonable objections standing and the amendment passed with a vote of 43 to 26.

This was a major triumph for transparency and accountability in government.

With unprecedented turmoil in the financial markets, the people are demanding to know and understand the extent of the Federal Reserve’s involvement in the creation of out-of-control business cycles, who they are helping, and how.

We need information.

The excuses for not giving out this information are flimsy at best, and the passage of this amendment is a major step to finally get-

ting at the truth.

Of course I could not have done this without the help and support of many other members who have been strong allies in this fight. Having over 300 cosponsors was obviously helpful.

However, as great as this victory is, we have to remember that this amendment is attached to a bill that would give sweeping new powers to the Federal Reserve.

The Fed has taken its mandate to maintain stable prices and full employment and used its immense power to help elite friends at the great expense of everyone else.

The answer is not to increase their powers and ability to interfere in the economy, but that is what the legislation will do. It is a disaster waiting to happen, and unfortunately it looks as if it will pass.

At least with the Audit the Fed amendment attached to the bill, the Fed will not be able to do its destructive work in secret.

The people will know exactly who the beneficiaries are of this immoral system of money management.

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

Musings: Giving thanks...

The View From Sugar Land Fort Bend has the ‘Best in the West’

By RUSSELL C. JONES One of the best demonstrations of the generosity of the residents of Sugar Land and Fort Bend County was played out Saturday night at George Ranch when the ARC of Fort Bend County’s annual western dance raised some $200,000 for its local developmentally challenged clients. For 31 years the ARC has been a big part of the Fort Bend community’s social fabric.

Growing out of a small oyster eating contest held at Angelo’s Fisherman’s Wharf on South Main Street in Houston, the western dance is now the largest charity event in the county. Every year, businessmen, engineers, attorneys, politicians and just plain folks join with the ARC’s volunteers to assure that the organization will continue its community programs for another year.

The western dance is what helping your fellow man should be about: voluntarily giving and sharing.

Slippery Slope or Over the Edge?

Make no mistake about it; the congressional debate on health care has very little to do with health care. We are witnessing the culmination of years of political struggle between the party of big government and the party which claims to oppose big government.

Democrats have long taken the position that they are the party of inclusion, incorporating every group who wants a piece of the government pie: civil-rights groups, feminists, gays, environmentalists, unions, you name it. Each of these interest groups has

Letter

Great American Smoke Out Poster Contest Winners sponsored by Tobacco Prevention & Control Coalition and Tobacco Free Fort Bend gathered to receive prizes and copies of the coloring book containing their posters that will be distributed throughout Fort Bend schools.

Winners represented Baines, First Colony and Lake Olympia Middle Schools. Pictured are Front Row Contest Winners (l to r): Mariah Booe, Brian Minaya, Deasia Dell, Muhammad Irfan. Not pictured are Amita Batra and Tyler Colbert. Back Row Volunteers (l to r): Ethan Shinogle, O’Neak Henigan, Mary Ann Dolezal, Susan Harris, Robin Hanzelka.

By JANICE SCANLAN Being thankful is a tricky thing . . . last year at this time we were frightened that the financial markets would implode. On a relative scale, are we more thankful when we’re frightened?

We certainly seem more grounded in what is important—family, friends and community.

I’ve seen a lot of “I’m thankful for” flying around this week. And it made me think about what is really valuable, what is important? I decided to keep this close to home because that is what really touches most of us . . . but similar things seem to apply

no matter where home is.

The thing I am really thankful for are the selfless volunteers who with low or no pay work to make our communities better places. Our volunteers touch many lives. I’m going to use one example, but it represents many groups that make a difference in people’s lives.

Last week I attended a celebration honoring 6 middle school kids who won a poster contest. And it was a diverse group—it looked like Fort Bend County – and it was complete with proud parents, siblings and community volunteers. It took place in one of the terrific meeting rooms in

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

281-980-6745 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor David Hamner Sales Associate

Diane Parks Graphic Artist

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

the new Sugar Land Branch of the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

A poster contest to engage kids is a worthy effort in and of itself. And the posters are thought provoking and clever.

This particular contest has a multiplier effect to distribute its message to others.

The winning posters have been compiled in a coloring book that will be distributed throughout Fort Bend from kindergarten through second grade about the dangers of smoking and second hand smoke. In 14 targeted schools, it will be provided bound for each child K-2. For the rest of the county, it will be downloadable from the internet.

Now to make this happen, volunteers from the Tobacco Free Fort Bend Coalition worked all weekend collating and assembling the books . . . we won’t go into what it took to organize and involve all the school districts. Or the time to get the group going and sustain it. Much goes into all our volunteer efforts that involve giving of personal time and effort.

So I’m thankful to all the volunteers throughout Fort Bend and elsewhere who

To the Editor: Will Rogers once made an interesting analogy when he said, “Politics is applesauce,” and I agree with him.

What does a neighborhood do when its elected officials make repeated unfulfilled promises and the community’s needs have long been neglected? What are the best options to resolve these issues?

Lately, a frequent discussion topic among First Colony residents of Missouri City is whether our combined communities should de-annex from Missouri City.

The issue is receiving more attention due to 1) a realization that our spending habits and lifestyles brand us as residents of other cities; 2) monumental dissatisfaction with Missouri City’s taxing policies, that higher taxes are coming and our neighborhoods will gain little; and 3) the knowledge that we are residents of a vimake life better for others.

So to show your thanks, think about multiplying your impact by giving.

We’ve been hearing that one in seven families in the U.S. is challenged to have enough to eat. In Texas alone, demand for food at pantries has increased 30% during the past year. If a family is food challenged, it likely has other needs as well—shelter, clothes, toys, health care, etc.

In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, you might consider giving in friends’ names versus getting someone a gift that doesn’t make a real difference to him or her.

Give to a charity he or she supports. Multiply what you give to others.

Write to open.space@earthlink.net.

Jones its own demands and is not particularly concerned about the economic realities of how government is to pay for it all, as long, of course, as someone else pays. The Democrats do not yet have a dedicated majority of the population at large, but each interest group has a passionate leadership dedicated to having the government right the wrongs perceived to be inflicted upon it and is working to achieve that majority.

Most Americans recognize that it is our economic system which has brought this country to the apex of the world’s wealthiest countries. Individualism, self-reliance, hard work, capitalism, risk and reward are all concepts which most people understand and believe in. They are typically going about their lives doing the right thing for themselves and their families and do not really notice what government is doing to them.

On the other hand the Republicans have been dominated by the social conservatives who only give lip service to economic issues. To the extent that they actually make

a decision, most economic conservatives lean toward the Republicans because they understand that the Democrats, at the national level, are incompatible with the realities of how the world works. Unfortunately, the intolerance of the social conservatives to political compromise leaves the Republicans in a permanent minority and leaves many, if not most, economic conservatives out in the cold with no organized party.

The result is that big government Democrats and socially conservative Republicans end up with their parties’ nominations, and few are elected to office whose primary purpose is to assure that economic freedom and capitalist ideals remain at the forefront of our political system.

Now the Democrats have become so dominant that they can push through a new entitlement program, couched in terms of health care, whose purpose is to assure that more and more of the population will be dependent upon government. More and more will support Democrats in order to assure their continuing entitlements.

The economic conservatives, the capitalists, the entrepreneurs, the members of our society who produce the wealth, will not have a chance.

This is not a slippery slope.

This is a historic precipice, and the nation may be about to jump over the edge.

Jones is the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Sugar Land and serves as Councilman for District 3. He was first elected to the City Council in 2003. He owns a law firm and a title insurance company in Sugar Land.

De-annex First Colony from Missouri City brant, economically thriving community with much to offer other cities.

First Colony neighborhoods are at the western edge of Missouri City, and most of us frequent shopping areas, libraries, restaurants, and parks in other cities.

Why is this important? Primarily because our shopping and spending dollars contribute to the sales taxes revenue for those cities. This is a big deal because the taxes we pay benefit another City’s residents, not us.

We also impose ourselves on other governmental entities by using their libraries and parks. First Colony is an HOA with its own unique environment and issues that are mostly compatible with the other cities besides Missouri City. A good example is our sidewalks that are still not repaired. This is a long settled issue in other cities.

Indeed, why should First Colony residents like myself feel connected to Missouri City when our finances and our entire lives revolve around another community?

I and many First Colony residents see the spending issues and tax issues surrounding the acquisition of the Quail Valley Golf Course as a boondoggle and one that we will never see any benefit from.

The bond issue that authorized spending for the Quail Valley Parks complex never mentioned that the City’s first spending priority was the Golf Course and to date, there has been no spending for parks, to my knowledge .

Would you be in favor of a major City spending initiative that promised little benefit for your neighborhood? QV Parks spending, when it comes, may enhance all of Misssouri City’s

neighborhoods but most long time residents see this as one of the many unfulfilled promises that Missouri City elected officials are prone to make.

Property taxes will increase in Missouri City and those tax dollars will never benefit First Colony.

Some First Colony residents see a de-annexation move as futile because our neighborhoods (allegedly) don’t have much to offer other municipalities and we are (allegedly) a negative tax draw on Missouri City. In fact, this is total hogwash.

Residents should take a good look at their community. The First Colony area and surrounding Highway 6 shopping areas are one of the most economically thriving areas of Fort Bend County.

Our home prices are rising, we have several high volume retail stores nearby and our area would be a welcome addition to any other municipality. We benefit from the same diversity, HOA rules, and other attractions that enhance all the other First Colony communities. De-annexation would be the start of a prosperous future.

I should add that I have recently been impressed by the courage and energy that Councilmembers Cynthia Gary and Robin Eleckatt have demonstrated in representing their constituencies but they are only two against a majority on the City Council.

I think it is time that First Colony residents looked forward, not back. I understand that de-annexation would be a long, immensely difficult process but are there any better options? As a community, we are very tired of applesauce.

Howard Moline Missouri City

FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 25, 2009 • Page 5

Community news Texana Center breaks ground on new West Campus

J.C. Whitten, Dave Hill, Rick Hollington, Angela Waligura, Steve McDowell, Willie Greer, Dianne Wilson, Gail Parker, Mayor Joe Gurecky, Gene Reed & George Patterson Texana Center marked a milestone with the groundbreaking of its new 8.5 million dollar West Campus.

George Patterson, CEO welcomed everyone and Dianne Wilson, Texana Board of Trustees Chair thanked The George Foundation for its foresight in granting a $1.5 million challenge grant which was followed by several other large foundation donations.

Those included Gulf Coast Medical Foundation, Houston Endowment, The Mabee Foundation and the Meadows Foundation.

Gene Reed, Chairman of The George Foundation Board congratulated Texana and commented that the Trustees were committed to this project since Texana would be fulfilling an unmet need in west Fort Bend County.

He was followed by Rosenberg Mayor Joe Gurecky who welcomed the additional services for people with developmental disabilities to Rosenberg. Gail Parker, President of the Central Fort Bend

Chamber Alliance also commented that she was proud to have Texana Center as part of the west Fort Bend community because these vital services provide better lives for people with developmental disabilities.

The Texana West Campus Project will consist of a modern one-story Learning Center for people with developmental disabilities and a new two-story Service Center.

The new campus will be located on a 3-acre site, close to the existing location in Rosenberg. It was designed by Ray + Hollington Architects and to be built by Tellepsen Construction. These will be the first LEED registered buildings in Rosenberg and will be designed to meet guidelines established by the US Green Building Council.

When completed, the campus will serve close to 1,000 people with developmental disabilities each year; most living in or around the underserved areas in west Fort Bend County.

RE/MAX Fine Properties welcomes The Marsha Spencer Team RE/MAX Fine Properties last week announced the addition of Marsha and Buster Spencer, “The Marsha Spencer Team�, to their family of accomplished REALTORSŽ. Having earned many designations, Marsha and Buster have the knowledge, experience, enthusiasm and commitment to provide true customer satisfaction.

Marsha, is an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), and has professional affiliations with the National Association of Realtors Buster and Marsha Spencer (NAR), Texas Association of Realtors (TAR), Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR), and was also awarded the Life Time Achievement designation with RE/ MAX. Buster, a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI) also holds many of the same professional affiliations. “We are very honored and excited to have a well known Top Producing team such as The Marsha Spencer Team join our family,� says Co-owner Minesh Patel. “They are both industry veterans and are extremely educated in their profession.�

The Spencers have resided in the SW Houston area for over 30 years, lending to their strong market knowledge and expertise of Fort Bend County, Sugar Land, Katy, Richmond, Rosenberg, Needville, Missouri City. They are actively involved within our community, within their parish at St. Laurence Catholic Church and enjoy quality time with their family.

To contact Marsha or Buster Spencer, visit www.TheMarshaSpencerTeam.com or call 713-419-8546.

Library open house features music, food The staff of Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch, 1530 Texas Parkway, invites the community to join them in celebrating the holidays at an Open House on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m. Music and food will be available for all to enjoy. Featured entertainment at this year’s Open House will be the Missouri City Library A Cappella Choir and musical selections from area schools. Activities for making holiday ornaments will also be available. For more information, call 281-499-4100.

The Learning Center will provide vocational training, rehabilitation services, employment assistance and supported employment services to people with developmental disabilities.

These services are vital and needed, as there is no other provider in our service area offering equivalent programs.

The Service Center will administer and deliver individual client services such as case management, nursing services, and enrollment in respite care.

Its Early Childhood Intervention program, which provides support to children under the age of three with developmental delays, will also be housed in our new Service Center.

Texana Center is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year, having been formed as a result of the merger of two organizations in September 1999.

For more information visit www.texanacenter.com

Nominations sought for “Outstanding volunteers�

Do you know of someone who selflessly and continually volunteers their time and talent to help improve the lives of others?

Volunteer Fort Bend is seeking nominations for the most outstanding volunteers in the county.

Five individuals who most exemplify the generous and caring spirit of volunteerism will be honored by Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert at the 2010 County Judge’s Volunteer Fort Bend Awards Ceremony in April, in celebration of Volunteer Appreciation Month.

Behind the scenes, there are thousands of individuals who are dedicated to helping their fellow man without thought of financial or political gain or recognition.

These selfless volunteers play a significant (and often unheralded) role in making Fort Bend County such an outstanding place to live and raise a family.

Fort Bend County’s volunteers come from many walks of life – they may be widows or students, retirees or stay-athome moms, or even people with full-time jobs and families who still find time to do what they can to make their community a better place.

They have varied talents – some excel at carpentry or mentoring students, while others shine at taking care of pets, calling a bingo game, or answering phones. What they all have in common, however, is their desire to help in whatever way they can.

In various ways, the citizens of Fort Bend County are the beneficiaries of this unwavering generosity.

If you know a volunteer who has made a significant difference to an organization or a group of individuals, you may nominate them to become part of a select group of very special individuals – those who have been deemed the most outstanding volunteers of Fort Bend County.

Volunteer categories include, but are not limited to, Youth, Civic, Health, Education, Social Service, Community Development, Groups, and Cultural & Performing Arts.

Nomination Criteria To be nominated, all volunteer work must be done in Fort Bend County and the individual must not have received monetary compensation for the work. Volunteer service cannot be restricted to a specific religious denomination or be part of partisan political work.

The nomination period begins December 1 and will end on Monday, February 1, at midnight.

Nominations received after the deadline will not be considered. Nominations may be submitted online by completing the nomination form found on the Volunteer Fort Bend website (www.VolunteerFortBend.org).

Those who prefer a paper version of the nomination form may call Volunteer Fort Bend at 281-499-9102, and a nomination form will be mailed to them.

Each individual may nominate only one volunteer. If the nominee participates in multiple volunteer activities or volunteers for different organizations, please be as de-

scriptive as possible about all of their volunteer work.

A panel of judges will review the nominations to select the top five volunteers who have demonstrated acts of extraordinary volunteer service in the community, and who – by their commitment and example – have inspired others to engage in volunteer service.

If your nominee is selected, photographs showing his/her volunteer activities will be requested.

The winning volunteers and their accomplishments will be honored at a celebratory breakfast on Thursday, April 29. In addition, Judge Hebert will present each winning volunteer with a prestigious award. Sponsorships for the awards ceremony are available. For more information call Kathy Renfrow, Director of Volunteer Fort Bend, at 281-499-9102, or send an email to kathyr@volunteerhouston.org.

Loving Friends Loving Friends is a widow and widowers group that meets the third Tuesday evening of the month at the Terrace in Sugar Land. Loving Friends is open to all widows and widowers in the area for a meal and entertainment. The next meeting will be on Dec. 15 at the Terrace. The entertainment will be singer Julio Arriola, the winner of the 2007 Sugar Land Superstar competition. Members are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. For more information and a $15 reservation, call Rena at 281499-9289 by Dec. 10.

Jobs & Education for Texans (JET) SCHOLARSHIPS for WCJC Vocational Students

Wharton County Junior College invites students who are majoring in or who intend to major in one of the following areas to apply for a JET Scholarship: Automotive Technology AAS (CIP 47) Automotive Technology Certificate (CIP 47) PC Technical Support Certificate (CIP 11) Cisco Router Networking Certificate (CIP 11) Computer Programming AAS (CIP 11) Network Administration AAS (CIP 11) Dental Hygiene AAS (CIP 51) Engineering Design AAS (CIP 15) Architectural Design Certificate (CIP 15) Computer-Aided-Drafting Certificate (CIP 15) Electronics Engineering Technology AAS (CIP 15) Emergency Medical Services Certificate (CIP 51) Emergency Medical Services AAS (CIP 51) Health Information Technology AAS (CIP 51) Associate Degree Nursing AAS (CIP 51)

Vocational Nursing Certificate (CIP 51) LVN-ADN Transition AAS (CIP 51) Radiologic Technology AAS (CIP 51) Human Services AAS (CIP 51) Human Services Certificate (CIP 51) Nuclear Power Technology AAS (CIP 41) Nuclear Power Technology – Enhanced Skills Certificate (CIP 41) Process Technology AAS (CIP 41) Physical Therapist Assistant AAS (CIP 51) Surgical Technology Certificate (CIP 51) Welding Technology Certificate (CIP 48) Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Certificate (CIP 47)

JET Scholarship funds can be used for the payment of tuition, required fees, laboratory fees, and costs of certification or licensure.

Eligibility requirements for applicants for JET Program Scholarships: t $JUJ[FO PS QFSNBOFOU MFHBM SFTJEFOU PG UIF 6OJUFE 4UBUFT BOE 5FYBT t .BKPSJOH JO PS EFDMBSJOH B NBKPS JO POF PG UIF QSPHSBNT MJTUFE BCPWF t %FNPOTUSBUF VONFU ĂśOBODJBM OFFE t "SF OPU SFDFJWJOH BOZ +&5 OPOQSPĂśU GVOET Applications are available at any of the WCJC campuses as well as online at the WCJC Financial Aid website.

For more information, please contact the Financial Aid Office at any one of the WCJC campuses.

Financial Aid Office (Wharton): 979-532-6345 Financial Aid Office (Richmond): 281-239-1540 Financial Aid Office (Sugar Land): 281-243-8431 Receptionist (Bay City): 979-244-4552 Applications should be hand-delivered or mailed to: ATTN: JET Program Scholarship WCJC Financial Aid Office 911 Boling Highway Wharton, TX 77488

APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 1, 2009

wcjc.edu

8IBSUPO t 4VHBS -BOE t 3JDINPOE t #BZ $JUZ t &M $BNQP t 1BMBDJPT WCJC is an EOE Institution.

Page 6 • NOVEMBER 25, 2009 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT

Community Calendar Christmas Musicale The Fort Bend Boys Choir’s annual Christmas Musicale will be performed at Williams Trace Baptist Church in Sugar Land on Sat., Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. All four performing choirs – Training, Town, Tour and Alumni – will be showcased. Tickets are available at the choir office, from any choir member or at the door.

All proceeds from the Musicale are used for program support, operational expenses and scholarships. For more information, call 281-2403800 visit www.fbbctx.org.

“Deck the Halls,” on Dec. 6 The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra recaptures the holiday magic as it presents “Deck the Halls” on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at the Stafford Centre.

The program, directed by Héctor Agüero, Jr., features classic, seasonal favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” “White Christmas” and “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

In addition to the wonderful music, attendees can look forward to a surprise guest and a small Christmas Boutique.

The latter features paintings, ornaments and other one-of-akind items created by orchestra members that will be available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the FBSO. This holiday concert is the most popular concert of the year so purchase tickets early at http://www.fbso.org or call 281-2769642. Individual ticket prices for adults range from $10 to $25 per concert. Senior and student prices start at just $5. Children 12 and under are free, but must have a reserved ticket.

A discount of 10 percent is available off each ticket when purchased for groups of 10 or more.

The Stafford Centre is located at 10505 Cash Rd at Murphy Rd in Stafford.

Become a Dental Assistant!

10 Week Course

Starting Soon Saturdays Only (281) 794-7944 www.Become-A-DA.com C. Mark Mann School of Dental Assisting Career Certified by: The Texas Workforce Commission Schools and Colleges CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on October 23RD, 2009 by the 240TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-165176 in favor of the Plaintiff - BRIARVILLA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,987.05++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the NOVEMBER 5TH 2009 and will offer for sale on the 1STday of DECEMBER, 2009 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -PATRICIA SMITH had of, in or to the following described Real Property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 4, BLOCK 26 OF BRIAR VILLA, SECTION ONE(1), MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 16015 BECK RIDGE DRIVE, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77053.

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

At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse RUBEN DAVIS, CONSTABLE, Precinct 2 Fort Bend County , Texas

By Gary Majors #73

CLEMENTS CHOIR. Clements High School Choir will have their annual Winter Wonderland on Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Clements High School Commons. This is a wonderful event that showcases the sounds of the season. Individual solos, small groups and large choral selections will be performed. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students.

Bargain Book Sale

Commissioner Andy Meyers

Friends of First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway at Grants Lake, Sugar Land, will hold their monthly bargain book sale Sat. Dec. 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m..

Good condition only books, CD’s, DVD’s (no magazines or encyclopedias) may be donated during regular library hours and are tax deductible.

Children’s items are especially needed. 281-416-0936.

Fort Bend Chamber Infrastructure Planning Division meets on Thursday, Dec. 10, at the chamber premises at 7:30 a.m. Commissioner Andy Meyers will give an update on Precinct 3. Breakfast will be provided. Reservations are required. For more information, contact Ellen Bush at 281-491-0277 or at ellen@fortbendcc.org.

Amahl and the night visitors

The First United Methodist Church Missouri City, Music Department & Friends, will present the classic one-act Christmas opera by Gian Carlo Menotti, Amahl and the Night Visitors. Performances are scheduled on Friday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. Performances will take place in the sanctuary located at 3900 Lexington Boulevard in Missouri City. Set at the time of the first Christmas, Amahl and the Night Visitors is an inspiring tale about a crippled boy and his mother. Together they experience a miracle brought about by faith, generosity and forgiveness. The story was set to music by Gian Carlo Menotti, one of America’s most prolific composers. The cast includes above, Tommy Settlemyre as Amahl and Joan McClure in the role of the Mother. Admission is free, but love donations will be accepted.

Christmas Home Tour Six generous homeowners in First Colony, Pecan Manor and Richmond have opened their doors to benefit young abuse victims in Fort Bend County. When the 18th Annual CASA Christmas Home Tour benefiting Child Advocates of Fort Bend begins on Dec. 11, guests will be delighted by some of the most exquisite holiday décor and home designs, entertained by area musicians and singers and will feast on homemade cookies and hot apple cider. HEB is the presenting sponsor for this year’s event. Volunteers are needed to host shifts at the

houses, bake cookies and sell tickets. For more information on volunteer opportunities or to get involved, contact Danelia Argueta at 281-344-5108 or dargueta@cafb.org.

Notice Public Hearing Stafford Municipal School District will hold a public hearing on the proposed application for Optional Flexible School Day Program at the December 14, 2009 School Board meeting beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Stafford Municipal School District Administration Building in the boardroom, 1625 Staffordshire, Stafford, Texas, 77477.

Journey to Bethlehem Methodist Sugar Land Hospital invites the community to usher in the Christmas Advent Season. A series of worship events will tell the story of the coming of the Christ Child on the following days through scripture readings, music and devotional thoughts.

•Nov. 30 - “Prepare Ye the Way”— Dr. Lockhart, Dr. Baltazar, Eva Short •Dec. 1 - “Mary’s Story”— Dr. Massar, Maria Socci, Diane Nichols •Dec. 2 - “Joseph’s Challenge”— Dr. Millikan, Dr. Pepper, Dr. Jackson •Dec. 3 - “The Birth of a Savior”— Griff Martin, Dr. Murray, Scott Cameron •Dec. 4 - “The Arrival of the Magi”— Nancy Penney, Janet Leatherwood, Tracie GrayJernigan All productions will be held from 12 noon to 12:40 p.m. in the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Sweetwater Pavilion Chapel. For more information, contact Spiritual Care at 281-274-7164.

CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 14th day of OCTOBER 2009 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-166460 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,367.36++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 21stday of OCTOBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 1STday of DECEMBER, 2009 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -HOGGART MONROE III had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 1: LOT 8 IN BLOCK 2 OF RIDGEWOOD ESTATES A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 5, PAGE 20 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (6400000020800907) TRCAT 2: LOT 9 IN BLOCK 2 OF RIDGEWOOD ESTATES, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF IN VOLUME 5, PAGE 29 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (6400000020900907) Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law.

ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $15,500 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306

CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on October 23rd, 2009 by the 240TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #07-DCV172937 in favor of the Plaintiff - BRIARVILLA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $4,144.44++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the NOVEMBER 5TH 2009 and will offer for sale on the 1STday of DECEMBER, 2009 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -STEVE RILEY JR., had of, in or to the following described Real Property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 54, BLOCK 2 OF BRIAR VILLA, SECTION TWO (2), MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 6010 BERKRIDGE DRIVE, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77053.

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

At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse RUBEN DAVIS, CONSTABLE, Precinct 2 Fort Bend County , Texas

By Gary Majors #73

CITATION BY PUBLICATION DIVORCE The State of Texas TO: Eduardo Diaz Lopez, and to all whom it may concern, Respondent GREETINGS: 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The Original Petition for Divorce of Maria F Mejia, Petitioners, was filed in the 328th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on the November 05, 2009 against Eduardo Diaz Lopez, Respondent, being numbered 09-DCV-176256, and entitled In the Matter of the Marriage of Maria Mejia and Eduardo lopez. The suit requests Divorce.

The court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree dissolving the marriage and providing for the division of property which will be binding on you.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 13th day of November, 2009.

Petitioner’s Attorney: MARIA F MEJIA 8611 BRIGHT NIGHT DRIVE RICHMOND, TX 77407 District Clerk Annie Rebecca Elliott Fort Bend County, Texas By: Deputy District CIerk Adele Crane Telephone: 281-341-4524

CITATION BY PUBLICATION DIVORCE The State of Texas TO: Antonio T Rahming 1500 West Henderson Road Apt 1010 Angleton TX 77515, and to all whom it may concern, Respondent GREETINGS: 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The Original Petition For Divorce of Temecia D Rahming, was filed in the 387th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, on July 07, 2009 against Antonio T Rahming, being numbered 09-DCV-173118 and entitled In the Matter of Marriage of Temecia Rahming and Antonio Rahming and in the Interest of Te’ana Rahming and Antonio Rahming Jr, Minor Children. The suit requests DIVORCE. The court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree dissolving the marriage and providing for the division of property which will be binding on you.

The Court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding upon you, inclUding the termination of the parent-child relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 19th day of November, 2009.

Petitioner’s Attorney: Temecia D Rahming 15411 Indian Wood Missouri City TX 77489 979-849-9306 District Clerk Annie Rebecca Elliott Fort Bend County, Texas By: Deputy District CIerk Adele Crane Telephone: 281-341-4524

Legal Notices LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2009 at 1:30 P.M. (CST).

All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

BID 10-042 – TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION PROJECTS: TRAMMEL-FRESNO AT TEAL BEND BLVD/CHIMNEY ROCK ROAD AND TRAMMEL-FRESNO AT WINFIELD LAKES TRAIL/LIBERTY SQUARE A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas.

Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend.

Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered.

Bid, payment and performance bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on October 26TH, 2009 by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #06-DCV-149052 in favor of the Plaintiff - BRIARVILLA HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $3,029.00++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same.

I have levied on the NOVEMBER 5TH 2009 and will offer for sale on the 1STday of DECEMBER, 2009 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -GLORIA OSORIO had of, in or to the following described Real Property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 76, BLOCK 2 OF BRIAR VILLA, SECTION ONE(1), MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 16119 NECORIDGE DRIVE, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77053.

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

At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse RUBEN DAVIS, CONSTABLE, Precinct 2 Fort Bend County , Texas

By Gary Majors #73

CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 28TH day of SEPTEMBER 2009 by the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-167141 in favor of the Plaintiff - CHASEWOOD COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $2,367.36++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 9TH day of OCTOBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 1STday of DECEMBER, 2009 at the County Courthouse steps of Fort Bend County, Texas in the city of Richmond, Texas between the hours of ten o’clock a.m. and four o’clock p.m., any and all rights, title, interests and claims which the said Defendant(s) -ELIZABETH CORMIER had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 15, BLOCK 10, OF WILLOW PARK SUBDIVISION OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AT VOLUME 21, PAGE 4 IN THE MAP OR PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Any properties sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the property or their interest therein if allowed, within the time and in the manner provided by law.

ALL SALES SHALL BE BY CONSTABLE’S DEED AND ARE WITHOUT WARRANTY AS TO TITLE OR CONDITION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS EVIDENCED BY CONSTABLE’S DEED. MARKET VALUE: $91,720 Terms: Cash, Cashier’s Check or Money Order; Sale to held at or about 10 a.m.

At the steps of the Fort Bend County courthouse ROB COOK, CONSTABLE Fort Bend County Precinct 3 12550 Emily Court, Ste 200 Sugar Land, Tx 77478 (281) 491-7226 Deputy Juan Diaz, #1306

CITATION BY PUBLICATION NAME CHANGE The State of Texas TO: Robert Lewis Lavan Address Unknown, and to all whom it may concern, Respondent GREETINGS: 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 AM on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The Original Petition for Change of Name of Child of Anna Josephine Paull was filed in the 387th Judicial District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, on November 13, 2009 against Robert Lewis Lavan, being numbered 09-DCV-176397 and entitled IN THE INTEREST OF INFANT GIRL PAULL, A CHILD. The suit requests NAME BE CHANGED AS IS MORE FULLY SHOWN BY PETITION ON FILE IN THIS SUIT the subject of this suit: FEBRUARY 20,1997 (CHILD DATE OF BIRTH) BAYTOWN, TEXAS (CHILD PLACE OF BIRTH) The court has authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the child(ren)’s interest which will binding on you, including the termination of the parent-child relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child(ren)’s adoption.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of the said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 13th day of November, 2009.

Petitioner’s Attorney: L. J.(Mike) Decker, III PO Box 219284 Houston TX 77218-9284 281-579-9875 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County Deputy District Clerk Epi Cantu Telephone: 281-341-4522

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2009 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

1. BID 10-034 – PICKUP TRUCKS; 2. BID 10-035 – PAUPER BURIALS, TRANSPORTS AND RELATED SERVICES; 3. BID 10-036 – TIRES; 4.BID10-037–ON-SITE CLEARING, GRUBBING, AND DEBRIS REMOVAL SERVICES FOR VARIOUS ROAD PROJECTS; 5. BID 10-038 – WINDOW WASHING OF VARIOUS COUNTY BUILDINGS. Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2010 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

BID 10-032 – PURCHASE OF 13 – 69 TRANSIT BUSES FOR TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 10:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas.

Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend.

Unit pricing is required, payment will be by check after products/services are rendered.

Bid, payment and performance bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE REQUESTS FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS Sealed Qualification Statements will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2009 AT 1:30 P.M. (CST).

Q10-039 – ROOF INSPECTOR AND CONSULTANT Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all qualification statements received.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION FORT BEND COUNTY The County Purchasing Agent of Fort Bend County will conduct a PUBLIC AUCTION for SURPLUS AND SALVAGE PROPERTY on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2009 AT 10:00 AM. The auction will be held at the Fort Bend County Needville Purchasing satellite office located at 9110 Long Street, Needville, Texas.

Items to be sold: 32-Ford Crown Victoria’s (2000-2008), 3-Ford cab and chassis (1989-2003), 2-Cherokee Jeeps (19972001), 1-Dodge Dakota (2001), 1-Dodge Ram (2000), 3-Ford 150 (1992-1997), 1-Saturn (1999), 1-Expedition (2004), 3-Ford Taurus (2001-2002), 1-Chevrolet Impala (2000), 3-15’ shredders, 1-Ingersol Steel Wheel Roller and 1-Ford New Holland 7740 Tractor.

Registration and viewing of all items will begin Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 8:00 AM. The auction will begin at 10:00 AM. All items must be removed from auction site by 4:00 PM on auction day.

All sales are final. All purchases must be paid in full on the day of sale by credit card (Master Card and Visa only), cash, personal check with a bank letter of guarantee, cashier’s check with a bank letter of guarantee, or company check with a bank letter of guarantee. Absolutely no checks accepted without a bank letter of guarantee.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to add or delete items from the auction. Items offered for sale are sold as is where is and without warranty.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Texas LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2009 at 1:30 P.M. (CST).

All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

BID 10-041 – IMPROVEMENTS TO KATY GASTON ROAD FROM F.M. 1093 TO CINCO RANCH BOULEVARD A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 9:00 AM in the Purchasing Department located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas.

Attendance is not mandatory, but all vendors are encouraged to attend.

Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered.

Bid, payment and performance bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Suite A, Rosenberg, TX 77471 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2009 at 1:30 P.M. (CST).

All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Rosenberg Annex, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened.

BID 10-040 – CONSTRUCTION OF HIKE AND BIKE TRAILS IN BUFFALO BAYOU PARK AND TRAIL SYSTEM Vendors are required to perform a site visit of the location. Site visits are to be scheduled with Mike Davis, Parks Department, at 281642-3716.

Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check after products/services are rendered.

Bid, payment and performance bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

NOVEMBER 25, 2009 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • Page 7

Community happenings A dog has more than its day

ing pets, mostly dogs, for about three years. Brio is one of her favorite subjects.

“He’s so cooperative and loves to pose for pictures — probably because he knows there are treats in store,” Rose said.

The photo used in Riverstone’s campaign was taken more than two years ago and actually is Rose’s most popular — possibly because Brio oozes “attitude” in the shot.

Although they’re not residents, Rose and Brio are sure to become frequent Riverstone visitors.

Poodle Brio, a local celebrity at Riverstone, is the face of Riverstone’s new ad campaign and is pictured on two area billboards.

Brio, with Riverstone marketing director Christen Johnson.

Christen Johnson, marketing director of master-planned Riverstone, was browsing the Web looking for inspiration for a new marketing campaign when she came across a photo of a fluffy white poodle in hot pink sunglasses on an international Web site with generic photos for purchase.

“We almost always use actual community photos in our

campaigns, but this time, I wanted to do something different. We recently opened a new dog park in Riverstone and I thought this adorable, sassy pooch would be the perfect attention-grabber to showcase our amenities and reflect the upscale ambiance of the community,” Johnson said. “The pup just radiated panache!”

Johnson immediately pur-

chased the photo and began working with her marketing team on a campaign.

Several weeks and two billboards later, local pet photographer Ruth Rose was driving with her husband on U.S. 59 near Sugar Land — just a few miles from her home — when her husband pointed out a billboard with a very familiar face beaming at passers-by.

“It was our dog, Brio,” Rose

said. “Friends had seen my work used in different places before, but I had never stumbled upon it myself.”

Rose went home and blogged about seeing Brio, (www.ruthrosephoto.blogspot.com). The next day, she received a phone call from Johnson, who had received an e-mail alert that Riverstone had been mentioned online.

Rose has been photograph-

Film Review : The Road Happy Thanksgiving and welcome to Cormac’s world; Cormac McCarthy wrote the Pulitzer Prize novel “The Road” and the screenplay was adapted by Joe Penhall.

You probably recall that McCarthy also wrote the novel “No Country for Old Men” that became the Best Picture by the Coen Boys in 2007.

Can lightning strike twice?

You will soon hear that this movie is very dark, depressing, and discouraging.

All of those adjectives are accurate. The setting is life on earth after an unknown apocalyptic event that has left human existence in a dark, gray state; literally and figuratively. Trees have no leaves and no apparent animal life. I was amazed that the cinematography was consistently without color yet the sets were true to the story. There is much that is amazing about this film.

Director John Hillcoat, originally from Australia, has created a masterpiece that will be the “talk of the town” as soon as the masses have an opportunity to see it and spread the word.

Viggo Mortensen stars as The Man who struggles to survive with his young son, The Boy, (Kodi Smit-McPhee) as they trudge South with only the clothes on their back and a shopping cart. And a revolver with two bullets.

The relationship between these two characters is the centerpiece of the storyline.

Along The Road, the two main characters encounter Bad Guys and bad events that are terrifying and treacherous. This movie is full of metaphors for hope, God, salvation, fear, love, tenderness, mysteries of life, and the human experience of failure and survivability. The editing and photography is truly remarkable and will take you on a ride that will haunt you in such a way that at times you will not want to look at the screen yet you are scared to look away.

The acting by Viggo and

The Boy were memorable as the bond between them is the thing of Greek myths.

Other outstanding performances were by Robert Duvall as Old Man and Cherlize Theron as Wife. When you see this movie, it is significant that the characters have universal names such as The Man rather than your typically clever Hollywood name.

Only Old Man is called by a name - Eli, which is Hebrew and the traditional meaning is God or ascend from God. But count the actual refer-

The “Brio” billboards are definitely attracting attention, exactly as planned.

“Several people have commented that they were driving down the road, with work and grocery shopping on their mind, only to do a double-take and enjoy a huge chuckle upon seeing the billboard. Using a bit of humor in our marketing approach has driven interest in the community, especially in terms of our amenities. I’d like to do something more with Brio. I think he’s quickly endeared himself as our community mascot!”

20% off Lunch Buffet 14025 Southwest Freeway, Suite 501, Sugar Land, TX 77478

281-242-4242

Not just oil, Pennzoil

ences to God in this movie.

There were many aspects of this excellent movie that pulled on my heart strings, but the one that got me the most was the love and devotion of the father and son. I spent much time during the movie thinking about my fatherhood and how would I handle this tragic situation if I was dirty and starving to death yet it was my responsibility to take care of my son.

And I had a pistol with only two bullets and I was scared and overmatched.

This film has Academy Award nominations written all over it and surely it will make the Top 10 for Best Picture. As a reminder, for the first time this year there will be ten nominations for Best Picture Many of us will interpret this movie differently; hence the talk of the town. McCarthy is known for pushing the emotional envelope in his books and Hillcoat sticks pretty close to the novel.

This is not a fun movie and if you need more time to digest your turkey, then wait a week or so before you tackle this holiday behemoth. Rock ‘n Roll.

PROUDLY SERVING FORT BEND SINCE 1981

Russell C. Jones Thelma Holoway Jones Lewis W. “Chip” Smith IV ● Real Estate ● Landlord/Tenant ● ● Banking ● Creditors' Rights ● Collections ● ● Business and Corporate Law ● ● Business Litigation ● Mergers and Acquisitions ● ● Estate Planning ● Probate ● ● Property Owners' Associations ● In the Sugar Land Industrial Park 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land 281-242-8100 rjones@jonesattorneys.com www.jonesattorneys.com AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

Nerve & Tendon Disorders Arthritis of the Fingers & Hand Congenital Congential Problems of the Hand

CHARLOTTE ALEXANDER, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

Grade 93. Larry H.

specializing in

Note: this movie was seen by Larry H. at Edwards Marq*e 23 Houston at a special screening on November 9, 2009.

Email sugarlaw@larryharrison.com

HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY 14090 Southwest Fwy, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: (281)265-4263

www.charlottealexandermd.com Se Habla Espanol

4500 Highway 6 , Sugar Land, TX 77478

Office: (281) 265-5533 ** Call or email for a FREE MARKET ANALYSIS **

Fine Properties

Email: info@FortBendHomesOnLine.com Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

http://www.FortBendHomesOnLine.com · 65+ Agents, Staff Speaking Over 15 Languages · Proudly Serving Fort Bend County for 10 years · New & Resale Homes, Rentals, Commercial and Acreage · Conveniently Located at Highway 6 and Austin Parkway

· Up to $8,000 tax credit for First Time Home Buyers · 2 In-House Mortgage Companies to Get You Financed Right Away! · Let Us Help You Find The Perfect Home . NOBODY SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX

Page 8 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • NOVEMBER 25, 2009

Women’s Association of SC Country Club presents Houston Choral Showcase The Women’s Association of Sugar Creek Country Club combined with the Sugar Creek Garden Club will hold its holiday luncheon on Thursday, Dec.10.

The event begins at 11 a.m. in the main ballroom of Sugar Creek Country Club,m420 Sugar Creek Blvd. Members and guests will be entertained by the Houston Choral Showcase, Top, right) Houston’s only pop/variety show choir.

Their performance will include pop, jazz, swing, show tunes, movie songs, patriotic pieces and holiday tunes.

Houston Choral Showcase has been entertaining audiences for over 76 years which makes them the oldest mixed community choral group in Houston.

Reservations are necessary for members and guests.

Call 281-494-5065 or email consy@midstream.net.

Fort Bend Theatre Princesses for Christmas

The Winter Extravaganza. The Clements High School Stars Dance Team will present its annual Winter Extravaganza on Thursday Dec.3 at 7 p.m., in the CHS auditorium. The show will feature all of Clements Dance I, II, and Advanced Dance classes, in routines that each group choreographed themselves. There will be a wide range of dancing from hip hop to classical. Then Clements Ranger Stars Dance Team will cap off the evening by giving the headline performance. Jump into the Holidays and join us. Admission is free. Pictured are, front row, Christina Daniels, Danielle Whelan; 2nd row, Taylor Rainosek, Levy Ngo, Alexa Goldstein; 3rd row, Sneha Raju, Gariela Martinez; and top, is Allison Trevino.

This holiday season Fort Bend Theatre will once again feature Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Jasmine, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel. Above, The Princesses finish singing We Wish You a Merry Christmas in last year’s premiere production of Princess Christmas! The Real Princesses in the back are Belle (Lydia Bottom), Snow White (Ashley Wolf), Jasmine (Tianna Farris), Cinderella (Katie Harrison), Rapunzel (Samantha Sweed), The Little Mermaid (Kaitlin Kennedy), and Sleeping Beauty (Jessica Withrow). The Mini Princesses are Belle (Kahlia Nelson), Snow White (Shelby Clingman), Jasmine (Jazz Smith), Rapunzel (Emma Jobes), Little Mermaid (Savannah Schakett), and Sleeping Beauty (Zoey Bresina). Seated in the front are Cinderella (Courtney Crews) and Cinderella in Rags (Hannah Galatoire). Princess Christmas will be held Dec. 5 – 20, Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. and on Dec. 21 at 10 a.m. with tickets available for $8 per person at www.fortbendtheatre.com. For more information or group sales, call 281-208-3333.

There’s no better time than Thanksgiving for us to express appreciation for all our customers.

We wish you a holiday filled with joy, friends, and family.

Re/Max Southwest has been servicing customers for 23 22+ years.

Re/Max Southwest continues to out-list and out-sell all other real estate offices in Fort Bend County.

Fort Settlement Middle School in Sugar Land got first place in a chess tournament hosted by Riverwood Middle School in Kingwood. The winning team from Fort Settlement MS included Suvedh Srikanth, Nancy Zhou, Chris Chiu and Ishani Sahu.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sandersen Knox & Co., LLP, Certified Public Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd. #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-242-3232 Suzette Peoples, Broker /Owner Giving thanks to wonderful clients and friends!

21 years of experience!

Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com

Speoplesrealtor@aol.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

Bill Moore ONE “MOORE” SOLD RE/MAX SOUTHWEST 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-1766 281-980-6000 www.onemooresold.com James Patterson Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 4

Happy Holidays

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hrbacek & Associates,P.C. 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110

SOUTHWEST 281- 491-1776

For more information on Re/Max Southwest visit

www.remax-southwest.com

Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com

281-240-2424

Dean Hrbacek

Andy Meyers Commissioner Precinct 3 Fort Bend County

Happy Thanksgiving!