Fort Bend Independent

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VOL 6 No. 50

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Sugar Land

Girls Scouts collect donations for Arcola Food Pantry

Larry Johnson, founder of The Johnson Development Corp., takes the first drive over a new bridge connecting the Fort Bend master-planned communities of Sienna Plantation and Riverstone. Along for the ride are Larry Wong with Jardain Capital (front row), Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen and Charlie Pence (second row l. to r.) and Rocky Lai (back) with Jardain Capital.

Bridge connecting Sienna and Riverstone opened A crowd of local officials gathered to officially open a new bridge over the Flat Bank Creek Diversion Channel to connect Fort Bend’s two premier master-planned communities, Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.

The new bridge connects Sienna Springs Road in Sienna Plantation to LJ Parkway in Riverstone, thereby creating a regional connection to both communities and an alternative to Highway 6. LJ Parkway is named after Larry Johnson, founder of The Johnson Development Corp., the developer of both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.

The structure officially opened when Larry Johnson and Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert each drove golf carts across the bridge for

the ceremonial “first drive.”

Residents from both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone also were on hand to express their support of the bridge that is expected to significantly reduce commute times.

“It’s going to make a huge difference in the drive to our schools, shopping areas and employment centers,” noted Sienna Plantation resident Richard Muller. “It’s a life changer for residents of both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.”

The bridge also provides a second route to the Fort Bend Parkway which currently is being extended from Highway 6 to Sienna Parkway, just south of the Sienna Springs Road intersection.

Sienna Plantation and Riverstone, both of The John-

son Development Corp., are among the nation’s top-selling master-planned communities.

Riverstone ranked #8 and Sienna Plantation #13 in the mid-year 2013 report by Metrostudy of the nation’s top 20 master-planned communities for new home sales.

Visit the Sienna Home Finder Center, 5777 Sienna Parkway, for maps, information on builders, amenities, schools and more. The center is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Sunday from noon – 5 p.m.

For more information, visit www.siennaplantation.com.

Families also can follow the community on Facebook, www.facebook.com/siennaplantation.

Thanks to the combined generosity of Girl Scout Troop 28173 and their families, and many girl scouts, students/faculty/staff at Scanlan Oaks Elementary and Sienna Crossing Elementary in Missouri City, Troop #28173 collected 423 pounds of peanut butter and macaroni & cheese to donate to the Arcola Food Pantry - benefiting families right here in our community.

Birds of Fort Bend: Winter Hummingbirds Little Jewels of the garden, with their flashes of iridescence, the Rufous Hummingbird male is one of several Winter Hummingbirds we may glimpse winter through spring. In Fort Bend, this is usually December on; but with birds “occasionals” can show up during any season. Most US Hummers live in Western States. North America has 23 species of Hummingbirds with only 8 living above the Mexican border. For comparison, Ecuador alone has 163 species. To survive cold times, our winter visitors go into Torpor, which is similar to hibernation. They may include Calliope,

black-chinned, broad-tailed, Allen’s and an occasional ruby–throated (our most common spring/fall visitor). The tiny 3 1/4” Rufous is our most common Winter visitor, but females are easy to confuse with

Allen’s. The Rufous breeds all the way to Alaska, so this tiny bird is quite migratory. See what’s happening in Margaret Sloan’s Quail Valley garden with Winter Hummers http:// traction.typepad.com/birds .

Missouri City bond committee unveils details

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Missouri City council members and residents got a snapshot look at what a May 2014 bond referendum might look like – how much it will be and what it will buy.

The proposed plan was presented to a full house at council’s Dec. 2 meeting by former council member, Eunice Reiter, who chaired the city’s 29-member bond exploratory committee.

Reiter told council that keeping the upcoming bond referendum at $40 million “was tough. Drainage, public facilities, transportation, parks and fire and police were discussed.”

The committee met eight times this year and recommended to council that $6.5 million be spent on drainage, $5 million on public safety (fire and police); $13 million on facilities, $2.5 million on parks and recreation and $13 million on transportation.

Wes Vela, Missouri City finance director, reminded residents that the city’s anticipated debt tax rate for the 2013 tax year is $0.19337 per $100 valuation. He explained that that rate times the city’s entire valuation is the amount that funds the annual debt service on the bonds.

As for the city’s capacity to borrow, Vela said that based on Missouri City’s current appraised values and current market conditions, it is projected the city could have the capacity

to authorize an additional $40 million over approximately 10 years at the current debt tax rate.

In other words, no higher tax rates would be needed to pay interest on the borrowed money because bonds would be sold over a 10-year period as the 2003 bonds were.

As Mayor Allen Owen said, “We won’t issue the debt until we do the projects.”

Reiter told council that the $13 million proposed for facilities includes $3 million for the city hall complex. Of that total $2.7 million is slated for immediate repairs on the lobby roof, which needs to be replaced at an estimated cost of $50,000 and $2,385,000 for city hall planning and community center roof replacements.

She noted that the roofs have reached their service life.

The former council woman said, “The committee discussed this area in depth.

Those of us who looked at the study done by consultants regarding this building (city hall) realize there are significant problems that need to be addressed. Some thought we should tear this one down and start over. Some wanted to move the building south. The general consensus was that the building should be looked at by a space study consultant and brought to council and the same thing happened regarding the police department’s building.”

The committee proposed

that $300,000 be spent on a “reimagining effort” -- a citizen’s group would develop a vision for city hall and the Texas Parkway corridor and determine how city facilities can meet the needs of the staff and provide more efficient and effective services to residents while keeping ahead of the needs of an ever growing population.

“The same thing happened with the police department.

Again a space study should be done for that building too in order to determine what the best procedure should be,” Reiter said.

Valeria Marvin, assistant director of public works, followed Reiter and told council that the police department needs more space for more jail cells, the evidence room and for administration. She said, “We had proposed looking at acquiring more land adjacent to the property and retrofitting the existing space. We’d get some help for that decision and see where we are headed in the future.”

Owen then asked if they considered building annexes that might house more staff.

Reiter replied that that would be a decision for city council.

City Manager Ed Broussard explained that the city is “not growing staff but we have land that has potential for us to do something with. Whether we tear this down or not there are See BOND, Page 3

Chairs and honorees for the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation 12th Annual Founders’ Ball include Gala Chairs Dr. Subodh Bhuchar and Sonal Bhuchar (bottom left) and (top l. to r.)

Bridget Yeung, SLCAF board member; Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson and former Sugar Land Mayor Bill Little, both honorees; and Don Kerstetter of title sponsor Classic Chevrolet.

12th annual Founders’ Ball returns January 18 One of the most soughtafter tickets on the Fort Bend County social circuit, the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation’s 12th Annual Founders’ Ball, returns for what is expected to be another recordsetting evening to raise funds for the historic Sugar Land Auditorium.

This year’s event, “SLCAF in Revue: Past & Present,” will be held Saturday, January 18, 2014 at the Safari Texas Ballroom in Richmond featuring a musical tribute to Sugar Land’s history as created and directed by renowned director and choreographer Michael Tapley.

Individual tickets are $100

and underwriting opportunities start at $1,250 for a table of ten. Live and silent auction items also will be available. The attire is black-tie optional.

Proceeds from the evening will continue the restoration of the Sugar Land Auditorium as a cultural arts center for the community. Since its inception, the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation has raised more than $1 million to restore the Sugar Land Auditorium. Most recently, funds helped replace the venue’s floorings, upgrade lighting and tint its windows. As a result, the fully functioning, 400-seat theater is booked

year-round for performances, lectures and meetings.

This year’s gala honorees, representing Sugar Land’s past and present, are former Sugar Land Mayor Bill Little (who served from 19611964) and current Mayor James Thompson. The event is chaired by Sonal Bhuchar, past president of the Fort Bend Independent School District, and Subodh Bhuchar, a leading Sugar Land area family physician.

For tickets and more information, go to www.slcaf.org.

Or for underwriting opportunities, contact Executive Director Chad Muska at chad@ slcaf.org or at 832-531-2639.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013

Dr. Baltazar joins Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates

NEWS Christmas campfire at George Ranch

During Campfire Christmas at George Ranch Historical Park on December 13, 14, 20 & 21, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the 1891 Davis Mansion, featuring vignettes of the Davis family’s Christmas traditions and elegant Victorian holiday décor. Above, Gary Vanderford, Park Interpreter and Susan Rezeppa, Educational Coordinator welcome guests into the Ryon Prairie Home for tours during a previous Campfire Christmas.

Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates is pleased to announce that Sugar Land physician Ulises Baltazar, M.D., has joined the practice to serve Fort Bend and surrounding counties.

Dr. Baltazar is board certified in both general and vascular surgery, and he specializes in treating patients with venous disease and varicose veins. He is an active member of the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital medical staff, where he serves as chair of the Biomedical Ethics Committee and on the Quality Management Committee. He was also previously named Physician of the Quarter by hospital staff and a former winner of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s annual Doctor’s Day Awards where he won the Most Supportive Physician award.

Dr. Baltazar is a graduate of La Salle University School of Medicine in Mexico City. He completed his internship and residency in general surgery at East Tennessee State University, and his vascular surgery

Ulises Baltazar, M.D. residency at Baylor College of Medicine.

“My new affiliation with the Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates will enable me to continue to of-

fer a deep and thorough level of care to patients in the Fort Bend and surrounding areas,” said Dr. Baltazar. “Houston Methodist is leading the way in cardiology and cardiovascular care through research and collaboration, and I am excited to be a part of such a well-respected institution.”

Dr. Baltazar is seeing both current and new patients at his office on the campus of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in Medical Office Building Three, suite 505. To make an appointment, call 281.240.8400 or visit methodistsugarlanddocs.com.

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Apple, the Apple logo and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Offers, plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (10/13)

DECEMBER 11, 2013 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

NEWS

For God so loved the world that he gave

Law firm merger creates Texas legal powerhouse

On Jan. 1, 2014, Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. and Butler | Hailey will merge to establish a new law firm, bringing together two well established Texas practices, both rated by Martindale-Hubbell as preeminent law firms.

The combined entity, which will operate as Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC (RMWBH), will have offices in Houston, Sugar Land, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas.

The five principals, Jeffrey Roberts, Marc Markel, Gregg Weinberg, Rick Butler and Roy Hailey, are each board certified in their respective practice areas by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

The new law firm will offer experience in many areas of civil law with a continued emphasis on labor and employment, professional liability, directors and officers litigation, fiduciary litigation, commercial litigation, energy arbitration, real estate and corporate transactions.

Community association law will be a particular focus as the new firm will have more attorneys dedicated to this field than any other practice in Texas.

Butler, Markel and Hailey are among the most experienced practitioners in this practice area and together bring more

than 100 years of combined experience.

“We are very proud to combine the resources of two of the leading firms in the industry,” Markel said.

“Our two practices have long had an enduring respect for each other, and we are excited to join forces to be able to offer clients so many choices regarding their legal needs and to further our goal of expanding this area of practice throughout Texas.

“Together, our combined practices will offer an expanded breadth of knowledge and the benefit of our cumulative experience while still providing personalized service to each of our clients.”

In addition to the broad depth of experience and the robust menu of capabilities to come from the merger, RMWBH will bring another notable distinction to its clients. The firm will offer a specialized, Web-based portal to provide community association clients with real-time status reports and 24/7 access to their information. The program incorporates state-of-the-art computerized collection systems, providing associations with maximum efficiency, accessibility and accountability.

“This union brings together the best elements of two highly

Juvenile suspects identified in Sienna Plantation Criminal Mischief cases

Two suspects are facing felony and misdemeanor charges regarding nine cases of Criminal Mischief in the Sienna Plantation subdivision three weeks ago.

The suspects, both 16, were identified and interviewed after Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office detectives reviewed a video which was from a victim’s neighbor’s house.

Nine cases of criminal mischief on eight different streets east of Sienna Ranch and south of Sienna Springs Boulevard were reported to have occurred

between 11 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20 and 5:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 21.

In all cases, at least one tire was slashed, and in some of the cases, the vehicles were keyed.

In a couple of incidents, all four tires were slashed on vehicles.

The monetary damage was in the thousands of dollars.

Streets involved included Rabbit Ridge, Ravenswood, Silver Oak, Trinity Oaks, River Peak, La Crema, Iron Horse and Kenwood. Both juveniles lived in an adjacent neighborhood.

regarded, successful firms for the benefit of all our existing and prospective clients,” Butler said.

“When we are combined, it will be a great challenge to find another law firm that has done as much, taught as much, or prepared as much in the arena of community association law.

What’s more, the talent that this firm will have in other areas of civil law means that the service levels accessible to our clients will be among the best available.” Hailey added, “Simply stated, good just got better.”

As a merged firm, RMWBH will represent more than 1,000 community associations, homeowners associations, property owners associations and condominium associations, including some of the largest master planned communities in the state.

The firm’s representation of these associations will center around assisting them with their day-to-day needs including collection of assessments, opinion letters, modification and enforcement of governing documents, and litigation involving the association and its volunteers.

“I have known Rick, Marc and Roy for over 20 years and I’m excited that they have

combined forces,” said Sandy Denton, General Manager of Sienna Plantation Residential Association. “I cannot imagine a problem that faces our industry that they have not addressed and mastered.”

The firm will also continue to represent some of the largest real estate developers across the state of Texas.

“For years we have relied on Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. to provide us legal guidance on many of the unique and challenging issues facing master planned communities in Texas,” said Doug Goff, COO of Johnson Development Corp.

Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. was founded in 1981 and has grown to comprise five offices throughout Texas, focused on numerous areas of civil litigation and transactional law.

Butler | Hailey was founded in 1980, and developed a practice heavily emphasizing community association law and real estate development.

The principals at both firms are all rated AV Preeminent®

by Martindale-Hubbell peer review ratings. The AV Preeminent® rating reflects a lawyer’s ranking by his or her peers at the highest level of professional excellence.

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Reward offered in Townewest homicide case Fort Bend County Crimes Stoppers, Inc. will pay a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspects involved in the homicide of a Townewest subdivision man.

At 9:20 a.m.on Dec. 4, 2013, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the scene of a homicide in the 14200 block of Bay Gardens Drive.

The caller was the brother of the victim, identified as Antonio Cesar Hinojosa, 32. Family members said they last saw Hinojosa at around 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, when he was with them to watch a football game.

Later in the week, family members attempted to call Hinojosa, who lived alone, but they could not get an answer.

When Hinojosa’s brother and a friend arrived Wednesday morning, they discovered the victim had been killed in his house. The cause of death has not been determined.

Information which leads to the apprehension and filing of charges on the suspects involved could earn a reward of up to $5,000. Call Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office at 281341-4665, Fort Bend Crime Stoppers, Inc. at 281-342-TIPS (8477) or text plus the tip to CRIMES (274637).

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Around the neighborhoods: Quail Valley Proud BE Q.V. PROUD…Be a Neighborhood Hero!

By Lisa Glenn (written and published in October 1998) While searching through my “resource files” I came across this article that my friend, Lisa wrote 15 years ago.

I had saved it because I felt that it was a perfect description of our Quail Valley neighborhood at that time.

Then when I finished reading it 15 years later, I sat there and thought, “WOW! In spite of all the stressful changes this area has experienced, it has remained the same.

Therefore, I obtained Lisa’s permission to include her “previously published article” in my column this week. CVB “Neighborhoods are like people; they come into this world fresh, healthy, and ready for that infusion of magic that makes them something special.

have been nurtured well and which are therefore thriving in a clean, inviting, and attractive manner.

The healthy survival of a neighborhood can be attributed to just a few key factors: a functioning civic association that enforces deed restrictions and a few good neighborhood lookouts who keep a watchful eye out for infractions. Mr. Gage also made the point that not taking the time to report infractions or turning a blind eye is like “failing to discipline Bowden your children because you’re “And, like children, they afraid their feelings will be fare according to how they are hurt.” Worse yet are those too nurtured.” apathetic to make the time or This quote is from Houston who simply pass the buck with Chronicle writer Larry Gage, excuses. who recently wrote an article “Busy bodies” and “get a life” about how neighborhoods all are also phrases that are too around the Houston area are often turned toward those who faring…those which have been Mr. Gage calls “neighborhood neglected; and those which heroes,” those who aren’t afraid

to brave taking a stand because they take pride in safeguarding the neighborhood in which they live.”

“BE A NEIGHBORHOOD HERO and don’t be afraid to call in deed restriction violations into the Q.V. Proud Hotline…..!”

NOTE: Lisa ended her article with the phone number for the PROUD HOTLINE. However, 15 years later, “For Your Information” the Hotline Contact is now Email: QVProud@aol.com.

Due to our recent move to an independent living facility for “seniors”, this column was “put on hold.”

However, all boxes are now unpacked, and so, the “every other week” schedule will resume. — Carolyn V. Bowden NEXT COLUMN: (Dec. 18) Write to: CVBNeighbors@ aol.com about this column.

Bond From Page 1

where we can get the most bang for the buck.”

Foos said the city needs a second gymnasium because of the number of people who are using its one facility. Another item he said the city needs is a skate park because the one the city has is “very old and not widely used.”

He said he’d also like to see some of the $2.5 million earmarked in the bond referendum for parks and referendum go for buying more land. “An event park of 20 acres would be nice,” he said because the city’s annual events have outgrown their current venues.

And, Foos said, “We need a phased in program for improving and adding playgrounds and we need recreation and tennis upgrades. The tennis courts are being used more and more. It would be nice to have bleachers on slabs and shade by trees for the back courts.”

He also said beautification projects could be done throughout the city and that every city park needs the signage replaced. Foos made a strong argument for having a second gym but since building such would take the entire $2.5 million allotted, Owen suggested pouring slabs for outdoor basketball courts that could be walled in eventually. “Make the gym an outdoor facility until we can afford to build the indoor court,” the mayor said.

Of the $13 million proposed for transportation, $7.5 will be used on projects proposed in the county’s mobility bond program, which requires matching city funds.

The Missouri City thoroughfares that will get those funds are Independence Boulevard ($2.7 million); Staffordshire and Scanlan to Court Road ($2.1 million); and Knight Road – toll road to McKeever

($2.7 million). Another $2.5 million is proposed for landscaping, monuments, Texas Parkway and SH6.

Drainage improvements will get $6.5 million for the Willow Waterhole watershed and there is no money to do work in the city’s master drainage plan.

Fondren Park and the north/ south garden area will get drainage work done as well as Fondren Meadow.

Elmer told council the work “will reduce and eliminate many existing issues we have and maximize developmental areas in the city.”

Now that the proposed referendum has been presented to council, the rest is up to council members and then citizens.

Council members have December and January to workshop the issues and projects they will propose in February. The final decision will be made by voters in May.

roof issues right now.”

If citizens approve the proposed $40-million referendum, more facilities that will likely be built include the city’s sixth fire station.

It is estimated that the cost of land, design, construction and a fire truck will total $5 million.

The fire department is also looking to cut out of district responses and reduce response times in order to improve its ISO ratings, which would drop fire insurance premiums for residents.

When facilities were finished being discussed, Reiter moved on to parks and recreation. She told council that initially “Larry (Foos, parks director) had a laundry list of things he needed to do but there wasn’t enough money to do all of them so we prioritized and went for those

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Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013

Opinion The Conservative Voice No, Mr. President, Fox News isn’t the skunk at your picnic!

By BARBARA J. CARLSON Welcome back from the Thanksgiving holiday.

Neil Cavuto at Fox News blasts Obama on Obamacare.

Cavuto’s concise 2:54 recap is hard hitting, entertaining and hits the bull’s eye with Obama in his crosshairs (http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=DDdmtJCEWPA).

Obama taunts Republicans on Obamacare with his smug sarcasm, “You got good ideas, bring them to me, let’s go, but we’re not repealing it as long as I’m President.” The Republicans are to now bring forward better solutions and clean up the mess that this administration created and doesn’t know how to fix?

Obama is still claiming that “a whole bunch stand to benefit” from Obamacare.

Government dependency isn’t the solution to success.

Congress has allowed this President to turn the best medical care in the world to be destroyed, why, because they were afraid of political rhetoric, couldn’t stand strong, didn’t read the bill in its entirety and didn’t bother to articulate this catastrophic law?

Now over 5M individual plans have already been canceled...and we’re just beginning.

Women across the country who have had breast cancer

Carlson are being dropped. The Left is not the party that cares about women’s health.

Should you be afraid to go on the government website to register? The government hasn’t even built the software to accurately tell the insurance companies who is actually enrolled. The law isn’t even written in full—yet this law is the law of the land. More than 1/3 of the enrollment applications only since October 1st have errors in them. The website application is lengthy and grossly invasive. Are you ready to sign all of your privacy away?

Should the Democrats be worried in their upcoming elections because of this mismanaged and erroneous healthcare law? Obama is losing ground in the 18-29 year olds, as recent polling showed

that 56% now disapprove of Obamacare. The 30-andyounger are getting it. They are having difficulty finding work, moving back home, they understand that they will be saddled with $17T (and growing) in debt that is no fault of their own and their premiums will be astronomical with the potential of not even being treated.

The cakewalk isn’t quite so pretty and people are getting it.

How can the most powerful leader of the free world, one who was fortunate to have attended some of the best schools not be able to figure out that raising the minimum wage would be detrimental to our economy?

Perhaps that’s why the income gap has risen four times faster under Obama than when under Bush and more than 6.7M people have fallen into poverty and the unemployed in our country is up 21.6M and 47.8M people are on food stamps—up 50% from Bush.

The United States is headed in the wrong direction…and this administration knows it.

For comments, contact Barbara J. Carlson at bcarlson@ fbindependent.com.

For comments, contact Barbara J. Carlson at bcarlson@fbindependent.com.

LETTER: Red Light Cameras To the Editor: I enjoyed reading Kumar’s article about the Task Force and its discussions regarding the recommendations forwarded to the Sugar Land City Council. There is much I can add to the discussions, and I would welcome the opportunity.

I was present (and a presenter) at all but the first Task

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Force meeting, and note some slight inaccuracies in description of the proceedings. The vote to continue the program with modifications unspecified but discussed after the motion passed was 7 to 3. The 9 to 1 vote was against a motion to recommend termination of the program (after more than one member expressed ambivalence overridden by reluctance to end it entirely).

Further, it appears from a Missouri appellate tribunal decision where similar laws prevail that it may be “void and unenforceable” as red-light cameras observe offenses that come under the definition of moving violations which are not civil. I had made this argument at the last Task Force meeting and again at the most recent City Council meeting.

For some reason, these opinions have not been reported, and I am left to wonder why.

It may also be that the action of the Sugar Land City Secretary, declaring Van’s petition invalid due to technical imperfections in signature gathering or submission, “inserted improper discretion” into the process. A recent legal memorandum related to a similar determination in

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

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 10701 Corporate Dr., #282, Stafford, Texas 77477. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Stafford, Texas.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

Fredericksburg expressed the City Secretary’s role as “ministerial”, solely to determine if the petition contained enough verifiable signatures to cause a public referendum. It may be inferred from what I have read that this “burden of proof of unverifiability” was not met and was not the reason for rejection of the petition in Sugar Land.

I plan to make this point in public commentary at the next City Council meeting.

For your information, I was for the red-light camera program until I was against it. I received two notices (in Houston and Sugar Land) accusing me of unlawfully operating a motor vehicle when in neither case was I inside. Despite admitted falsity of the accusations I was not able even after appeals to get a determination either was void for this reason.

That led to the conclusion overzealous application of the program improperly invited violation of civil rights, and I decided to do whatever I could to prevent this degradation of the quality of life our founding fathers left for us to enjoy and to protect.

I reside in Meadows Place, and am a math instructor on the Sugar Land campus of Wharton County Junior college. I can be reached by reply or at home most evenings at (281)-568-7925.

Van and I are acquainted and we have the same goal, but we do not collaborate behind the scenes.

Will Heierman Meadows Place

Holiday Bowl The holidays are upon us and one of the best ways to kick off the season is to attend the Battle of the Bend, the eighth annual Fort Bend Holiday Bowl.

The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Enforcers will be taking on the Sugar Land

INVESTING: Personal Financial Deadlines With the close of the year comes a number of different tax and personal finance deadlines of which you should be aware: Required Minimum Distributions for IRAs In the year you turn 70 ½, the IRS requires you to begin taking withdrawals from your IRAs. The penalty for choosing to ignore your required minimum distribution (RMD) is severe; a 50 percent penalty tax on the undistributed amount.

If you turned 70 ½ in 2013, you can choose when you take your distribution. Either you can take it before December 31 and it will be reported as income for your 2013 taxes, or you can wait until early next year and it will be reported on your 2014 taxes, but be aware: waiting means you must take two distributions in 2014. If you turned 70 ½ in a previous year, you must take your 2013 distribution by December 31.

Maxing Out Your 401(k) Employees can contribute up to $17,500 ($23,000 if over age 50) to their 401(k) accounts in 2013. Because your contributions are likely set up as automatic deductions from your paycheck, it’s easy to forget exactly how much you’ve contributed throughout the year. If maxing out your 401k contributions was a goal you had this year, make sure to log into your account to confirm this has happened before your final pay period for the year.

Healthcare Changes While healthcare reform remains in flux, you shouldn’t remain ignorant of how it impacts your insurance cover-

Bill & Jared Jameson age. A few things to keep in mind: • On Jan. 1, 2014, people with pre-existing conditions can no longer be denied health insurance. If you have been denied coverage before, research your options for obtaining insurance, including the healthcare exchange at www.healthcare.gov.

• It appears that those who have already seen their insurance policies dropped may have an opportunity to have them reinstated for at least a year. Contact your former or current insurer to find out if your old coverage is available.

• Regardless of your cur-

rent coverage, it is good idea to contact your insurer or insurance broker to see if there have been any major changes to your policy.

There are many other financial deadlines related to the end of the year. If you would like a comprehensive review of your 2013 finances, contact your local fee-only financial planner.

WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281634-9400.

Christmas tree lighting or Holiday tree lighting?

To the Editor: As a resident of Missouri City for over 45 years, and as a long time past Planning & Zoning Commissioner, I must speak out about the shameful actions, or lack of action, by our city leaders.

While other cities in the area are promoting Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas parades, Missouri City, once again, is promoting a Snow Fest Parade, and a “Holiday” Tree Lighting.

When I asked city officials

if Council had ever directed the people, or department responsible for this to totally drop the word Christmas from any City activity, I was assured they had not. I am very sad and hurt that my City would allow this to happen.

However, it continues. This is offensive to Christians.

Yes, December 25 is a holiday, but so are many other dates during the year. All those others are called by name. Why is December 25 such a bad day that the very

word of Christmas is offensive?

In my opinion, it’s impossible to say “God Bless America”, and then say the Name of Christ is offensive.

Please Missouri City, do the right thing. Either say “Merry Snow Fest”, or say “Merry Christmas”. As for me and my household, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Don Braley Missouri City

Come out to the Holiday Bowl Saturday

Preparing for the annual Battle of the Bend are, from left, Major Chad Norvell, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office; Jack Molho, Toys for Tots – Fort Bend County; Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy E. Nehls; Sgt. Antione Parker, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marines and Toys for Tots; Sugar Land Police Chief Doug Brinkley; Derrick McCullar, Sugar Land Police Department; Sgt. Daniel Hennelly, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marines and chairman of the Toys for Toys in the Greater Houston Area; and Deputy Frank Davis, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and founder of the annual Fort Bend Holiday Bowl.

Police Department Chargers is FREE if you bring a newly ties, Toys for Tots-Fort Bend at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 at purchased unwrapped toy.

Christmas charity organizaProceeds from the game tions. Monetary donations go the Fort Bend Christian Academy’s Eagle Field, 1215 Sev- will support the Fort Bend toward purchase of toys.

County Deputy Sheriff’s Asenth St., Sugar Land.

For more information, Gates open at noon with sociation’s “Santa Behind contact Deputy Frank J. Davis interactive activities for the the Badge” program, and the Jr. at frank.davis@fortbendyoungsters (moonwalks, face Sugar Land Police Officers countytx.gov or call 281-652painting, etc.) and admission Association’s selected chari- 7761.

INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013 • Page 5

News Sugar Land Mayor Jimmy Thompson Phone App puts success of Cookie Sale in the palm of girls’ hands announces re-election bid Girls will begin the tradiCustomers across Girl COmobile, an iOS applica- place the interaction customJames A. Thompson, Sugar Land Mayor, is pleased to announce his decision to seek re-election as Mayor of Sugar Land in the May 10, 2014, election. “It has been a privilege to work with the City Council and staff to make the city a quality place to live and work. I’m proud of the accomplishments we have made in the last two years,�

Thompson said.

In 2011, the City of Sugar Land completed construction of Constellation Field, home of the Sugar Land Skeeters.

The Skeeters’ first baseball game was April 26, 2012; more than 465,000 people attended games during the first season.

Sugar Land has remained economically stable with excellent future prospects.

The city maintains a AAA credit rating and home sales are high, both of which are a direct reflection of Sugar Land’s strong financial health.

The city has also seen significant redevelopment and economic development, such as redevelopment of the Imperial Sugar campus, bringing in Costco, and retaining Flour Corporation, Texas Instruments and Noble Drilling. In addition, a future land use map was added to the city’s comprehensive plan, and an architect has been selected for the new performing arts center.

The city’s new $69 million surface water plant is complete and was the largest capital improvement project ever completed by Sugar Land. The plant was built to meet the Fort Bend subsidence district’s mandate that 30 percent of the city’s water supply must come from a non-groundwater source, a requirement intended to reduce subsidence that contributes to flooding in the area. The new plant included new transmission lines and upgrades to the city’s existing ground water treatment plants.

Sugar Land also held a bond election for three park propositions. “The bond election provided an opportunity for our residents to choose whether to authorize property taxes to fund parks projects that were identified through years of community input,� said Mayor Thompson. “The vote reaffirmed that residents believe that approved projects are important to Sugar Land’s quality of life and economic prosperity. It is our intent to keep the tax rate as low as possible while maintaining the quality of service and amenities that our residents expect.�

Thompson has served in many different roles of public service – elected, appointed and voluntary – during the past 30 years. He served on the Sugar Land City Council from 1996 to 2005, both as a district and at-large council member. He was part of the city’s leadership for many achievements, such as the acceleration of the upgrade and expansion of U.S. Highway 59; the improvements of Eldridge Road; the creation of Town Square; the development of the Sugar Land Regional Airport into a staterecognized premiere facility; numerous additions to the city park system, including Oyster Creek, Eldridge and Imperial parks; the acquisition of the land for the Brazos River corridor; and the establishment of the University of Houston campus in Sugar Land.

A native Texan, Thompson is a graduate of Bellaire High School in Houston and

Thompson Stephen F. Austin State University. He is an Air Force veteran, having served his country for nine years. He and his wife, Gay, moved to Fort Bend County in 1978 to raise their three children: Michael, Tara and Meredith.

Scouts of San Jacinto Council’s 26 southwest Texas counties will have the opportunity to purchase Girl Scout cookies a bit earlier this year and receive them just in time for New Year’s thanks to a new app.

Beginning Dec. 21, girls will start selling cookies digitally using Cookie Command (COCO) software and COCOmobile’s new feature COCOdirect. The Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC), one of the largest Girl Scout councils in the country, is the test market for the feature that allows customers to order, purchase and ship cookies in bulk to their doorstep using an electronic order card.

CoCo, created by ABC Bakers, one of two official bakers of Girl Scout cookies, is girls’ online command center for their cookie business.

It includes COCOcommand, an internet-based application that allows girls to contact customers via e-card and CO-

tion that allows girls to track orders, payment and delivery statuses and set and monitor goals.

Through COCOdirect, customers will only be able to purchase six box bundles of any variety of cookies or eight box sample packs and pay for orders using a credit card.

All COCOdirect orders are shipped directly to the customers by the baker. “Ordering Girl Scout cookies using COCOdirect is a good way for organizations and corporations looking to purchase cookies in bulk to thank patrons for their business or staff for their hard work,� said D’Anne Hawk, GSSJC’s Product Sales Director. “At the same time, they’re still supporting girls as they participate in the Cookie Program and gain critical business and life skills.�

Although COCOdirect and COCOmobile are nontraditional ways of purchasing Girl Scout cookies, they do not re-

ers will have with girls. Girls who use COCOmobile will still have to deliver orders to customers and those who use COCOmobile will have to be in front of customers to take orders on their Apple device.

Both of these activities are key to helping girls gain confidence and learn people skills and business management. “The girls will use as a tool, which gives customers a more convenient way to purchase and receive cookies,� said Hawk. “COCOdirect is the future of the Girl Scout Cookie Sale and provides everything the girl will need to meet her goals in the palm of her hand.�

Girl Scout Cookies are available in eight varieties: Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Shortbread, ThanksA-Lot, Caramel deLites, Lemonades and Cranberry Citrus Crisps. All varieties of Girl Scout Cookies are zero transfat per serving, and the price for a box of cookies is $4.

tional process of selling Girl Scout cookies door-to-door January 11. Beginning February 21, Girl Scout Cookies will be sold at cookie booths outside of grocery stores and other retail venues. The Cookie Sale ends March 30.

All proceeds from the cookie program support girls, their troops and Girl Scouting locally.

Girl Scouts of the USA is the world’s preeminent organization for girls, with a membership of more than 3.7 million girls and adults. Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

Chartered by GSUSA to provide Girl Scouting locally, Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council is one of the largest Girl Scout councils in the country serving more than 62,000 girl members and nearly 19,000 adults in 26 southeast Texas counties.

2013 WINTER MINI-TERM & SPRING 2014 SEMESTER REGISTRATION Winter Mini-Term begins December 16 (Register now through December 15) Spring semester classes begin January 21, 2014 (Register now through January 20)

A Program for Everyone Core classes in English, Math, History, Science, Speech, Humanities, Visual & Performing Arts, Government, Kinesiology, and Social Sciences "TTPDJBUF PG "SUT EFHSFF t "TTPDJBUF PG "SUT JO 5FBDIJOH EFHSFF t "TTPDJBUF PG "QQMJFE 4DJFODF EFHSFFT $FSUJĂśDBUF $FSUJĂśDBUJPO 1SPHSBNT t %JTUBODF -FBSOJOH $PVSTFT 'JOBODJBM "JE $PVOTFMJOH t %VBM BOE $PODVSSFOU &OSPMMNFOU

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Human Services*†Law Enforcement†Nuclear Power Technology†: t /PO MJDFOTFE 0QFSBUPS Specialty* t &MFDUSJDBM 5FDIOJDJBO Specialty* t *OTUSVNFOUBUJPO BOE Controls Technician Specialty* Nursing: t "TTPDJBUF %FHSFF "%/ p t -7/ "%/ 5SBOTJUJPOp t 7PDBUJPOBM /VSTJOH 0óDF "ENJOJTUSBUJPO p Paralegal Studies†Physical Therapist Assistant†Police Academy* Process Technology†Radiologic Technology†Surgical Technology* Welding Technology* * Certificate program †Associate of Applied Science Degree

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W Wharton County CJC Junior College

WCJC is an EOE Institution.

Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE First Colony SL•$1,499,000•4/31/2/3 38CB

Riverstone SL•$1,199,000•5/5+11/2/3 4CC

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For All Your Real Estate Needs Call Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor (281) 414-8400 www.ArleneRolsen.com PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 for Cinco Village Center Lubys Fuddruckers, being a partial replat of Cinco Village Center, Section 3, Partial Replat No. 7, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas.

Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing. You may contact Brian Nawara with Texas Engineering and Mapping at 281-491-2525 for information prior to the hearing.

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 for Majestic Pointe at Riverstone, being a replat of Waterside at Riverstone “Restricted Reserve C”, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas.

Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing. You may contact Jorge De La Rosa with Costello Engineering & Surveying at 713-783-7788 for information prior to the hearing.

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the revised traffic control plan for Katy ISD No. 22, Kilpatrick Elementary at Cinco Ranch Blvd. and Gaston Road to add “No Parking” signs, Precinct 3.

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

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF RANA lDRIS DECEASED ADDRESS UNKNOWN NOTICE: 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 30, 2013 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The case is presently pending before the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on November 01,2013. It bears cause number 13-DCV-210474 and is styled: Bank Of America, N.A. vs Mohammed T Mulla, Nadir Mulla, Nailah Mulla, Amna Mulla and,the Unknown Heirs at Law of Rana Idris, Deceased .

The name and address of the attorney for the petitioner is: DUSTIN C. GEORGE MACKIE WOLF ZIENTZ & MANN PC 14160 NORTH DALLAS PARKWAY SUITE 900 DALLAS TX 75254-4319 214-722-5176 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: PLAINTIFF REQUESTS THAT MOHAMMED MULLA, NADIR MULLA, NAILAH MULLA, AMNA MULLA AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF RANA lDRIS BE CITED TO APPEAR AND ANSWER HEREIN AND THAT, UPON FINAL HEARING, PLAINTIFF HAVE AND RECOVER A JUDGMENT AGAINST THEM ALLOWING IT TO PROCEED WITH FORECLOSURE AS PROVIDED BY THE LOAN AGREEMENT AND TEXAS PROPERTY CODE SECTION 51.002, PLUS INTEREST AND ATTORNEY’S FEES AND ALL COSTS OF SUIT. LOT TWENTY (20), IN BLOCK ONE (1), OF THE COLONY BEND, SECTION ONE (1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 20, PAGE 10, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. 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 12th day of November, 2013.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, Fort Ben d County, Texas

By Deputy District Clerk Layla Helton 281-633-7635

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the revised traffic control plan for Lakemont Section 4 Subdivision – Somerset Hill Lane at Lakemont Bend Drive to add “No Parking Any Time” signs, Precinct 3.

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

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 for Satya River, being a replat of Unrestricted Reserve A of Landmark at Riverstone, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas.

Under state law, you the owner, have certain rights with respect to the proposed replat. Should you wish to exercise your right, you may be heard at the planned public hearing. You may contact Mary McKenzie with Hovis Surveying Company at 281-320-9591 for information prior to the hearing.

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

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, William B. Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014 AT 1:30 P.M. (CST). All submissions will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the firms made public. Submissions received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov Q14-025 – PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RELATED TO ROADWAY, DRAINAGE AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS 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 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Katy ISD No. 31, Holland Elementary School at Seven Meadows Parkway to add “No Left Turn” during school zone hours at the entrance to the school, Precinct 3.The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Submitted by, Dianne Wilson Fort Bend County Clerk

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, William B. Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2013 AT 1:30 P.M. (CST). All submissions will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the firms made public. Submissions received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov Q14-027 – TRANSPORTATION PLANNING, ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND DESIGN OF ADMINSITRATION AND OPERATIONS FACILITY A Pre-SOQ conference will be conducted on Thursday, December 5, 2013 at 9:00AM (CST). The conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located at 301 Jackson, Suite 201 in Richmond Texas.

All vendors are encouraged to attend.

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

$159,900

Meadows Place • Meadowhollow • 4/2/2 Meadows Place • Brighton • 3/2.5/2

SOLD

SOLD

$99,000

Reduced

$159,900

$157,500

Fort Bend County offers non-profit Changing of the guard at Fort Bend Family Protection Grant opportunity Republican Women’s Club Fort Bend County announces the opportunity for non-profit organizations that provide prevention or intervention services for family violence or services related to the abuse or neglect of a child to apply for county grants.

CITATION BY PUBLICATION STATE OF TEXAS TO: UNKNOWN UNKNOWN and to all whom it may concern, Respondent(s), You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The petition of KARI-LYNN SIERRA, Petitioner, was filed in the 328TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County, Texas on this the 2nd day of June, 2011, against UNKNOWN UNKNOWN, Respondent(s), numbered 11-DCV190415, and entitled IN THE INTEREST OF MARIE NOELLE LIBERT, A CHILD. The Suit requests AMENDED PETITION IN SUIT AFFECTING THE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP as is more fully shown by Petition on file in this suit.

The date and place of birth of the child(ren) who is/are the subject of the suit: OCTOBER 26, 1998 The Court has authority in this suit to render an order in the child(ren)’s interest which will be binding on you, including the termination of the parentchild 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 said Court at Richmond, Texas, on this the 3rd day of December, 2013.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER OR RESPONDENT: MELISSA MORRIS ATTORNEY AT LAW 1916 BALDWIN STE 130 HOUSTON TX 77002 713-226-7220 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas

By Deputy District Clerk Raquel Charles 281-633-7624

Currently, the county collects a family protection fee of $15 for each suit for dissolution of marriage. This fee is collected by the District Clerk at the time of suit and by state statute is to be used for the purposes stated above. Grants are available up to $33,000 for the 2014 calendar year.

Applications can be found at www.fortbendcountytx.gov/ index.aspx?page=1397. The deadline for submitting an application is Dec.30, 2013.

It is once again time for Fort Bend Republican Women’s Installation of the new 2014 officers and the public is invited.

This annual gathering draws the leaders, business men and women, county residents, and the members of the Republican Party to this presentation. It is also a time to thank those who served during 2013.

The new officers will be installed at the annual Membership Eggnog Party, which also serves as a Christmas and Holiday gathering, Thursday, December 12, 2013, 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at a private home in Sugar Land.

Please join to learn more about the Republican Women, their monthly meetings and activities, membership and meet and greet with those who continue to contribute and make a difference in our community.

For more information, call 713-817-4545 or email klmccarter@aol.com.

Parent’s Day Out Need a few hours to shop or enjoy a break from the holiday stress? St. Martin’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1123 Burney Road, Sugar Land, is hosting a Parent’s Day Out event on Dec. 14 from 8 a.m. to Noon.

Experienced caregivers will be on hand to entertain your child(ren) with crafts, games and a snack. The cost is $25 for the first child and $5 for each additional sibling. It’s a babysitting bargain!

Children ages 2 through fifth grade are eligible to attend. Email organizer Robin Bruso at: Robin.Bruso@ gmail.com if you’d like your child to attend or have questions.

This is a fundraiser hosted

by St. Martin’s Junior High and High School youth to raise money for their trip to the 2015 ELCA Youth Gathering.

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: BOBBIE ALDRIDGE WILLIAMS AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF DAVID HENRY WILLIAMS JR. AKA JOHNNY WILLIAMS DECEASED ADDRESS UNKNOWN NOTICE: 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 January 06, 2014 a default judgment may be taken against you. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 301 Jackson, Richmond, Texas 77469, or by bringing it to the office. Our street address is 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond TX 77469. We are located on the first floor of the Justice Center building.

The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on May 03, 2013. It bears cause number 13-DCV-206187 and is styled: CitiFinancial, Inc. vs Bobbie Williams and The Unknown Heirs at Law of David Henry Williams, Jr. AKA Johnny Williams, Deceased The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF FOR PETITIONER IS: THOMAS LINN BRACKETT BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL LLP 15000 SURVEYOR BLVD SUITE 100 ADDISON TX 75001 972-386-5040 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: PLAINTIFF CITI FINANCIAL INC, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNED BY AND THROUGH ITS ATTORNEY OF RECORD, THOMAS L BRACKETT OF BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP, 1500 SURVEYOR BLVD, ADDISON, TEXAS 75001, 972-386-5040, BROUGHT SUIT AGAINST DEFENDANTS BOBBIE ALDRIDGE WILLIAMS AND THE UKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF DAVID HENRY WILLIAMS JR AKA JOHNNY WILLIAMS DECEASED TO ENFORCE THE LOAN AGREEMENT ON THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4961 EAST RIDGE CREEK, HOUSTON TEXAS 77053 AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: TRACE FIVE (5), BLOCK THIRTEEN (13) OF THE UNRECORDED RESUBDIVISION OF PART OF RESERVES “D” AND “G” OF RIDGEMONT, SECTION TWO (2) AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY AND HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 187, PAGE 97, MAP RECORDS OF HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS AND IN VOLUME 10, PAGE 11, MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY TEXAS BEING A TRACT OF LAND OUT OF RESERVE G, OF RIDGEMONT SECTION TWO SUBDIVISION ACCORDING TO THE MAP AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 10, PAGE 11 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS SAID TRACT ALSO BEING OUT OF BLOCK THIRTEEN (13) ACCORDING TO THE DEED FROM US HOME CORPORATION OF TEXAS TO THE RIDGEMONT P.U.D., HOME-OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 576, PAGE 93 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY TEXAS AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 13; 1.) THENCE NORTH 64 DEG 58 MIN 32 SEC WEST, ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID BLOCK 13, A DISTANCE OF 110.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE TRACT HEREIN DESCRIED; 2.) THENCE SOUTH 25 DEG 01 MIN 28 SEC WEST, A DISTANCE OF 85.00 FEET TO A POINT FOR CORNER; 3.) THENCE NORTH 64 DEG 58 MIN 32 SEC WEST, A DISTANCE OF 65.00 FEET TO A POINT FOR CORNER; 4.) THENCE NORTH 25 DEG 01 MIN 28 SEC EAST, A DISTANCE OF 85.00 FEET TO A POINT FOR CORNER ON THE NORTH LINE OF BLOCK 13; 5.) THENCE SOUTH 64 DEG 58 MIN 32 SEC EAST, ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID BLOCK 13, A DISTANCE OF 65.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE TRACT HEREIN DESCRIBED, MORE OR LESS. 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 19th day of November, 2013.

DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County Deputy District Clerk TENTRA ALLEN 281-633-7616

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN THESE COLUMNS? Call Becky Hall at 281-980-6745 Or email sales@fbindependent.com

NOTICE TO BIDDERS SOUTH SUGAR MILL DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS PHASE II The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: CIP PROJECT NUMBER: LOCATION OF WORK:

Sugar Mill Drainage Improvements Phase II DR0803 Sugar Mill Subdivision, Sugar Land, TX 77498

Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from the following office or downloaded from www.civcastusa.com with payment of $200: AECOM Technical Services 5444 Westheimer Road Suite 20 Houston, TX 77056 713-780-4100 Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 9, 2014, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read.

Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 19, 2013, Brazos Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, TX 77479.

Questions regarding this bid must be received by Monday, December 23, 2013 on or before 5:00 P.M. Please contact Amada Rodriguez at AECOM Technical Services (713) 267-2830.

The City Council will award the bid to the lowest responsible bidder that complies with all requirements of the Request for Bids. The City of Sugar Land will give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) calendar days after the bid opening date and time.

Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary NOTICE TO BIDDERS REHABILITATION 1.0 MG GROUND STORAGE TANK NO. 2 LAKEVIEW WATER PLANT The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: CIP PROJECT NUMBER: LOCATION OF WORK:

Rehabilitation 1.0 MG Ground Storage Tank No. 2 Lakeview Water Plant WA1401 1101 Lakeview Drive, Sugar Land, TX

Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from the following office with payment of $75: IDS Engineering Group 13333 Northwest Freeway, Suite 300 Houston, TX 77040 (713) 462-3178 Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 9, 2014, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read.

Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday December 19, 2013, Cane Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, TX 77479.

Questions regarding this bid must be received by Monday December 23, 2013 on or before 5:00 P.M. Please contact Paul C. Wallick at IDS Engineering Group (713) 462-3178.

The City Council will award the bid to the lowest responsible bidder that complies with all requirements of the Request for Bids. The City of Sugar Land will give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) calendar days after the bid opening date and time.

Glenda Gundermann, TRMC, CMC City Secretary

INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013 • Page 7

FILM REVIEW: Out of the Furnace This is a sneaky movie; it sneaked up on me and made me care about the characters and the story. In the beginning, I was convinced that my experience was going to be a bust and a waste of time.

Don’t be so impatient “Hollywood Breath!”

I didn’t walk out, so give me a break. For the first half of the film, I was confused and felt like I didn’t have a dog in the hunt because I wasn’t sure I understood the director’s angle, and I surely didn’t relate to any of the characters.

(Don’t call me Surely.) It’s been a long day.

Then sometime during the last third of the movie, I’m guessing, I finally got it. Director and Screenwriter Scott Cooper had made a uniquely entertaining and engaging movie. Maybe the bloody brutality, drugs and intense sadness lulled me into thinking too much.

The story is simple: two brothers trying to get through a difficult life and find their way.

A big stumbling block in their tangled web was the lollipop-sucking, crazed Harlan DeGroat (Woody Harrelson). You know anybody named “Harlan DeGroat” is a bad hombre. I saw Woody on a talk show recently say that “…this character is the meanest, worse one I’ve ever played.” That’s saying a lot.

Director Cooper provides very little information other than the development of the characters; very slow development.

I’m still not confident of

Wharton County Junior College recently held a Legislative Reception at its Richmond Campus.

WCJC President Betty McCrohan recognized legislative officials for their continued support of community colleges. Pictured, left to right, are Texas State Representatives Phil Stephenson, Rick Miller, Ron Reynolds, John Zerwas, M.D., WCJC President Betty McCrohan, and Congressman Pete Olson. the setting. I think it was in New Jersey, but also in the Appalachian Mountains. Go figure.

Cooper frequently jumped back and forth using flashbacks and scene-jumping that makes sense in retrospect, but I found Cooper’s editing method to be disconcerting and perplexing. I’d like to see this film again. Uh oh, that’s the highest compliment in my toolbox. That surprises me.

Maybe, I don’t know what I’m talking about, but I really liked this film and think Cooper deserves much of the credit. Leo DiCaprio must have seen something worthwhile about this project as he is listed as one of the producers which means he put up some of his “Titanic” money.

Harlan DeGroat and his band of mountain inbreeds operated a drug business and

fixed betting on “open knuckle” fist fighting. They dealt in such a long list of drugs that if you understood their street names, you must be kin to Rob Ford.

Cooper also attracted a superb cast. The troubled brothers – Russell Baze (Christian Bale) and Rodney Baze Jr. (Casey Affleck) – were dynamite. Woody Harrelson was scary and tough as a bloody nose and a bullet; in other words Woody was spot-on.

Zoe Saldana, Sam Shepard, Willem Defoe, and Forest Whitaker rounded out a brilliant supporting cast.

If you are patient and not a deep thinker; don’t mind blood, nastiness, and cruelty, then you might like this movie. Rock ‘n Roll.

Grade 90. Larry H. sugarlaw@larryharrison.com WCMC HOLIDAY LUNCHEON: The Woman’s Club of Missouri City held their Annual Holiday Luncheon at the Township’s trendy Coco Pazzo. Executive Chef Frederick Perrier outdid himself for the ladies of the club with his unique Mediterranean Italian Cuisine and a trio of desserts that were “sugar and spice and everything nice.” As one of the oldest social and philanthropic clubs in Missouri City, these ladies collected “toys for tots” as well as lap blankets for seniors in an effort to bring some real holiday cheer to those in need. Each year this group of dynamic women raise funds to provide scholarships to deserving Missouri City high school seniors and continue to be ongoing sponsors of the DeWalt Heritage Center (the historic Dew House) in Kitty Hollow Park. Pictured left to right are: Jean Shelledy, Judy Pasadyn, Carol Grates, Linda Emery, Joan Woodson, Rhonda Jacobsen, Jo Butterfield, and Virginia Hodges.

AUTOMOBILE:Lexus LX460

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Sporting a new Lexus spindle grille, new 20-inch alloy wheel design and upgraded interior for the 2013 model year, the eight-passenger LX 570 continues to deliver on challenging off-road adventures and luxurious in town driving.

The LX 570 has a new look at both the front and rear. New LED daytime running lights complement new headlamp design and new larger fog lamp bezels. Taillamps are also updated, while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated.

Both front and rear bumpers are refreshed, and the rear bumper protector is enhanced by a stainless steel accent. Turn signals have been added to the side mirrors and wider bodyside moldings sport a new look.

The eight-passenger cabin of the LX 570 also got upgraded with the addition of an easy access system, which makes entering and exiting the vehicle easier. The steering wheel and driver’s seat automatically retract when the ignition is turned off. Front seats also feature improved cooling, and a 120-volt power outlet has been added to the middle row.

The LX 570’s transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive that can handle slippery winter weather or deep mud.

The system uses a TORSEN® limited-slip locking center differential to distribute power 40:60 front-to-rear, directing more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

The chassis is equipped with an advanced suspension system. The high-mount, independent double-wishbone front suspension allows for nine inches of total front wheel and the four-link trailing-arm rear suspension retains the solid-axle configuration for strength and durability.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension system provides three modes to control the spring rate and shock absorber damping force to provide optimal

handling and comfort for onroad or trail driving. Comfort mode provides a softer response on bumpy roads, while the Normal and Sport modes provide increasingly greater levels of control for driving a heavily loaded vehicle, driving at higher speeds on paved roads or driving on unpaved roads.

Standard luxury amenities include four-zone independent climate control, front power-seat cushion extenders, a rear back-up camera, Lexus Navigation System and nine-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system with iPod/USB connectivity, HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging, and Bluetooth® music streaming.

The LX 570 features the next-generation Lexus Enform® App Suite, the system that leverages the customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management.

Under the hood there’s plenty of power thanks to the 5.7-liter V8, which produces 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 403 lb.-ft at 3,600 rpm. Premium gasoline is a must, An electronically-controlled six-speed automatic transmission estimates road conditions and predicts the driver’s intention in order to select the appropriate gear ratio for the vehicle’s speed and the driving conditions. A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears manually.

Body-on-frame construction provides ruggedness and durability in challenging driving conditions, impressive ride isolation characteristics and a 7,000-pound towing capability. The Active Height

Control (AHC) system lowers the chassis by about two inches for easier entry and exit and returns automatically to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate.

Split five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels with Liquid Graphite finish wear 285/50R20 tires. The multi-terrain Antilock Brake System (ABS) determines road-surface conditions and automatically optimizes lock-up control, selecting the suitable ABS profile for on- and off-road driving surfaces.

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) employs the ABS to properly balance braking forces between the front and rear wheels, while Brake Assist (BA) provides auxiliary force to assist the driver during emergency braking.

The Lexus LX 570 is the first vehicle in its class to use Active Front Headrests which move up and forward in the event of certain low speed rear-end collisions. It is also the first in its class to offer the optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The LX 570 is also the first Lexus to offer the optional Wide-view Front and Side Camera designed for use in tight settings, such as parking garages The cameras can display the front and side views simultaneously in split-screen mode.

The Lexus Navigation System includes Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect® (includes complimentary oneyear trial subscription), Voice Command casual-language voice recognition and automatic Bluetooth phonebook download.

The 40/20/40 split, powersliding second-row seat slides

forward and aft 3.5 inches for passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility. Power retractable third row provides easier access to the cargo area.

The split rear tailgate features a power upper door, while the bottom section raises and lowers with minimal effort.

Luxury Package includes a cool box for beverages; semianiline leather-trimmed upholstery with contrast stitching; heated steering wheel and mahogany wood trimmed door switch plates; heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats (outboard position only). Also a rear dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet. For audiophiles there is the optional 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound audio system with 450-watts maximum power and 15 channels.

The price on this luxurious and large sport utility vehicle is $80,930. The test drive vehicle had the optional luxury package on it and hiked the msrp to $89,295. The delivery charge is not included in either price.

If you want luxury and room in an off-road vehicle that has manners galore in town, do test drive the Lexus LX 570.

It will take you anywhere and in style.

ABWA honors Amanda McCalla with “Woman of the Year” Award

The American Business Women’s Association, Fort Bend Chapter Christmas meeting/dinner held at Sugar Creek Country Club on Dec. 5, was a huge success. The members voted Amanda McCalla as their “ABWA Woman Of the Year.” Cheri Pemple, immediate past president, did the honors with the announcement and gave Amanda McCalla flowers.. Join the members next month at the Marriott in Town Center on Jan. 2, 2014.

Left, Florists, Decorators and Homeowners are busy with final preparations for the 22nd annual CASA Christmas Home Tour. Set for December 13 and 14, the tour features seven distinctive homes Sienna Plantation, Riverstone, First Colony, Lakes of Williams Ranch and Foster Creek Estates. Tickets are available for $25 at Fort Bend County Kroger and Randalls stores and online at www.cafb.org. In addition to these locations, tickets can also be purchased during the event at the Sweetwater Guardhouse on Sweetwater Boulevard and Palm Royale. Putting the finishing touches on a tree in one of the homes (L to R) are: Decorators Cathy Gottlieb and Carol Cernosek.

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 11, 2013

News Child Advocates, FBJSL join hands Over the past seven years, Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) and the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) have developed a strong partnership in serving the community.

Together, they have provided a voice for abused and neglected children in Fort Bend County. The 2013-2014 FBJSL Placement Team is filled to capacity with twelve amazing women who are excited to serve CAFB. FBJSL volunteers have supported CAFB with over 14,000 service hours throughout the years serving as CASA’s (Court Appointed Special Advocates) or on several fundraising events.

FBJSL members are currently assisting the agency for the 22nd casa Christmas Home Tour, which is scheduled for December 13 & 14, 2013. On May 3, 2014, FBJSL members will participate in the 14th annual Gala for the Children.

2013-2014 Fort Bend Junior Service League CAFB Placement Members Danielle Hames, left, Kristin Lenfield, Marla Van Meter, Ginny McCord, Stephanie Reilly, Dana Clement and Jen Rizzo. Not pictured are Mimi Zaybak, Letha Hensley, Bridget Labadie, Melissa Saliés, Caroline Bordelon and Tina Worrell.

Wharton County Junior College 5K Stride and Stroll winners include pictured left to right: Richard Delmar of Fulshear, First Place in the 50 and over age category, Debbie Rychlik of Richmond, First Female to finish the race, John Murphree of Richmond, First Place in the 13 and under age category, Jesse Gutierrez of Wharton, First Place in the 30-49 age group category, John Herrera, First Male to finish the race and First Place Male in the 14-29 age group category, Donna Wooten of Wharton, Oldest Female Strider, and Robert Osborne of East Bernard, Oldest Male Strider. Photo by John Dettling, Jr.

“Crowning” moment at Imperial Sugar Land

Local officials gathered to witness the “crowning” of Imperial Sugar Land as an art piece patterned after a version from the Imperial Sugar Company was installed at the main entrance of the master-planned community on Highway 6 near Constellation Field. Measuring over five feet wide and just over four feet tall, the polished and painted aluminum art piece is now suspended at the top of a 40-foot tower at Imperial Sugar Land’s main entrance. Designed by TBG Partners of Houston, the community’s new art piece combines the traditional design of a historic crown from the Imperial Sugar Company, now in the care of the Sugar Land Historical Society, with the more modern-looking logo of Imperial Sugar Land. Attending the installation are (l. to r.)

Imperial Sugar Land General Manager Shay Shafie, Sugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard, Sugar Land City Council Member Himesh Ghanhi, Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson and Sugar Land City Council Members Amy Mitchell and Steve Porter.

A worker guides a gleaming new crown into place at the main entrance of Imperial Sugar Land where it is now suspended at the top of a 40-foot tower at the community’s main entrance on Highway 6 near Constellation Field. Measuring over five feet wide and just over four feet tall, the polished and painted aluminum art piece designed by TBG Partners of Houston combines the traditional design of a historic crown from the Imperial Sugar Company, now in the care of the Sugar Land Historical Society, with the more modern-looking logo of Imperial Sugar Land.

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MODEL HOMES From the $300’s

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