VOL 2 No. 51
Phone: 281-980-6745
www.fbindependent.com .fbindependent.com ww
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2009
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
County to hold joint primary elections on March 2
HOLIDAY LIGHTING. Quail Valley Garden Club Holiday Lighting winners express the joy and good will of the season. First place: 3303 Deerwood: Lisa Yeager & Miguel Angel Ortiz is a child’s delight with multiple Santas and other characters. One of the Santas is pictured in this photo. Second Place, 3107 Holly Court: Glen Crawford; Third Place, 2507 Bermuda Dunes: Michael & Blanca Swatek. Honorable mentions in no order: 2911 Highland Lakes: Tamara and Michael Bailey; 3134 Stoney Brook, Denis & Sharon Menegaz; 3119 Stoney Brook, Paul & Beverly Combs; and 2919 Nancy Bell, Joel & Frances McCaulley. The Good Neighbor and Sense of Humor Award went to Robert Craig of 2931 Highland Lakes in his celebration of his neighbor Bryan Gardner’s spectacular lighting display at 2922 Highland Lakes. Drive by to experience all the winners and other homeowners who light up our lives.
Taxpayer sues law firm, taxing units and others By SESHADRI KUMAR A Sugar Land taxpayer, Gwen Ross, has sued Fort Bend County, Fort Bend ISD, City of Sugar Land, Tax Assessor/Collector Patsy Schultz, delinquent tax collector Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP and others alleging that the law firm illegally sold the property toward delinquent taxes. The litigation relates to the property at 307 Lakeview in Sugar Land. The owner was not living at this address and a mailing address had been given to the county. Ross claimed that the judgment and sale notices were not served on her but were served on the property occupied by tenants.
Linebarger by consistently using the property address instead of the owner’s mailing address denied the due process of law, Ross said. The first sale proceedings began in January 2005. Ross came to know about it through the painters working on the house. She attempted to pay the taxes and the proposed sale was canceled. Again in 2006 similar sale proceedings began and this time the tenant informed her about it. A Linebarger employee allegedly encouraged Ross to sell the property to a man whose card she always kept in her desk. “Nobody at or for the county could count from July 14, 2006 up 180 days to January
10, 2007 in order to determine the critical deadline for redemption of the property,” Ross said in the lawsuit. Because of the conflicting dates calculated by various entities, Ross, despite paying the amount to redeem her house, was told she was in default and the property had been sold. According to one version, the deadline was Jan. 10, 2007. Ross redeemed the property on Jan. 12 as per another advice. On Jan.12 Schultz allegedly told that Ross had redeemed her property, but on Jan. 16 “unredeemed” it. Were it not for the tragic consequences of acts, errors
By SESHADRI KUMAR The Fort Bend County Commissioners Court last week unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a joint election contract between the Republican and Democratic Parties and the Fort Bend County Elections Administrator. The election date has been set for March 2. The contract will allow the county to conduct one primary election rather than two. According to Fort Bend County Elections Administrator John Oldham this agreement is “good for the Parties, good for the county, and, most importantly, good for the voters.” Under the plan the Republican and Democratic Parties will share voting booths. There will be one team of election workers made up of representatives of both parties processing the voters. This would make things better for both the poll workers and voters, Oldham said. “Voters won’t be faced with the stigma of standing in one line versus another, or waiting in the wrong line. They can discreetly choose a party ballot when they check in,” Oldham said. After the court approved the agreement, Precinct 4
Commissioner James Patterson praised the political party chairmen and the Fort Bend County Elections Office for working together in the Primary process. “Republican Chair Rick Miller and Democratic Chair Elaine Bishop as well as our Elections Administrator John Oldham are to be commended for their initiative and cooperation,” Patterson said. Joint primaries are becoming more common in Texas. Parties have shared voting booths in Bexar County for years and joint primaries are the norm throughout most of the country. Also, early voting in Fort Bend has been conducted jointly in the past. The most significant impact of the joint election is that the election costs would be substantially reduced as the joint election would eliminate duplication of polling booths, equipment and personnel. While the county bears the cost of early voting, the respective parties share the election day costs and the runoff election, if necessary. Both the parties will be reimbursed by the Secretary of State. In 2008, the Republican and the Democratic Parties in Fort Bend spent about $95,000 and
$105,000 respectively. The joint election 2010 may bring down the total cost to $138,000. The county may spend another $130,000 on early voting. The county is also expected to spend $25,000 on training election workers. Both Miller and Bishop expressed confidence in the election administrator. The mutual faith and spirit of cooperation between the two party chairs also expedited the joint election agreement. Miller said “The Joint Election process requires an Election Judge representing each Party at each of the voting locations. This makes the process fair to both Political Parties.” “Our decision was based first on ensuring the process would be fair and respectful to the voter. It will be essentially the same as early voting. The only difference is that we have to provide a record of the early and election day voting to the Precinct Conventions, which occur roughly 30 minutes after the polls close. So this record will be taken for each Party as people check in to vote,” Miller said. The other consideration was that the process would See ELECTION, Page 3
Santa’s Exchange comes to town
See LAWSUIT, Page 3
Sugar Land redefines standard of living The extension of the Southwest Freeway to Sugar Land cleared the way for the growth of residential development during the 1960s. The state’s highway project extended the freeway through rice fields in Sharpstown to U.S. Highway 90A, a milestone that spurred the development of Sugar Creek and other areas. The Imperial Cattle Ranch sold about 1,200 acres to a developer to create what became Sugar Creek in 1968. The area’s first master-planned community introduced country club living near Sugar Land. It had the feel of rural estates with upscale amenities that included a Robert Trent Jones golf course. Prior to the development of Sugar Creek, the Kempner family set the stage for up-
scale residential communities in Sugar Land with the development of Venetian Estates. They dredged canals in family-owned farmland and swamp to build the neighborhood. The development served several purposes – nice, new waterside homes, the elimination of a swampy area inhabited by alligators and continued flood control protection. Venetian Estates greatly benefited from the extension of the Southwest Freeway, which improved access and sparked renewed interest in the rural neighborhood. Also during the early 1960s, a new subdivision development called Covington Woods introduced contemporary affordable housing in Sugar Land for the first time. Based on the success of
Seconds can save lives
Covington Woods, Venetian Estates and Sugar Creek, developers began looking for new opportunities in the Sugar Land area. In 1972, the Kempner family sold 7,500 acres to Gerald Hines Interests for the development of First Colony. It was one of the largest land sales in Texas history. Development of 10,000 acres began in 1977 by Sugarland Properties Inc. and would follow the next 30 years. The master-planned community offered homebuyers formal landscaping, neighborhoods segmented by price range, extensive greenbelts, a golf course and country club, lakes and boulevards, neighborhood amenities and shopping. The rest is history.
At First Colony Church of Christ on Dec. 19 Sugar Land Exchange Club, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Sugar Land Rotary, and Project Smile worked together to be Santa’s Exchange to 719 families by distributing over 10,000 toys to 2721 kids. At least 988 families received special red and green invitation letters to participate. They were chosen through Project Smile and Fort Bend County’s social service programs. There were over 400 student volunteers from area schools and countless Exchangites, Rotarians, and other service organizations members on hand to welcome the guests and help them select their toys. A month of collection and special bargain shopping preceded four days of sorting over 10,000 toys by thirty student volunteers, Exchangites, and Rotarian volunteers each night. Project Smile began 26 years ago when Carolyn Tarver sought to turn her grief from the loss of their only son Stan into something that was positive. She chose to make a few families in need smile at Christmas with gifts for their children that they did not expect. The remaining toys will be distributed at Bethel Ministry Monday morning to an additional 575 families who were on the Santa’s Exchange waiting list and other needy families in Fort Bend County. The Smiles just continue to go around the county thanks to good people doing good things. Above, Kate Olson in the green top, Congressman Pete Olson, the Olsons’ nephew, Parker Garland, in plaid, and Betty Baitland distribute the toys.—Photo by Larry Pullen
Fort Bend County’s only accredited Chest Pain Center. Visit memorialhermann.org or call 713.222.CARE to learn more about our heart and vascular screenings.
Page 2 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 23, 2009
Workshops on Six workshops have been scheduled to inform the public about FEMA’s new development and implementation of the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) program. The formal process will include an official general public review. Fort Bend County will organize and host a number of public meetings to introduce and explain the FEMA adoption process, provide an opportunity for the Public to review the maps, and learn about the county’s interactive web tool that is available. A representative from the National Flood Insurance Program Region VI office is expected to attend the January 5, 6, and 7 meetings.
Community happenings Clements’ Star Dancers flood maps
In addition, handouts will be available at all of the meetings as well as information pertaining to other floodplain related information such as “mandatory flood insurance rules,” or “appeals and protest procedures.” The dates, times and locations for these workshops are listed below. Workshop Schedule January 5, 2010 Albert George Library 9230 Gene Street Needville, Texas 77461 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. January 6, 2010 Sugar Land City Hall 2700 Town Center Blvd. North Sugar Land, Texas77479 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
January 7, 2010 Club Sienna 9600 Scanlan Trce. Missouri City, Texas 77459-6543 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. January 11, 2010 Cinco Ranch Library 2620 Commercial Center Blvd. Katy, Texas77494 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. January 12, 2010 George Memorial Library 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond, Texas77469 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. January 14, 2010 Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Library 8100 FM 359 South Fulshear, Texas77441 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Sugar Land’s new TIRZ approved By BARBARA FULENWIDER On the second and final reading, Sugar Land City Council at its last meeting of the year approved the city’s fourth tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ). The zone includes just over 700 acres straddling U.S. 59 at University Boulevard. It will be used to build Sugar Land’s first entertainment district in a mixed-use plan. Council created TIRZ 4 in order to provide financing for public improvements and facilities that will support the development of the acreage. Development plans call for a mixed use of commercial, cultural arts, sports and entertainment in an urban-density. The TIRZ also includes the University of Houston – Sugar Land and part of the commercial area of Telfair. Ted Nelson, representing Newland Communities and the Telfair community in Sug-
ar Land, told council prior to the unanimous vote that he is highly supportive of the creation of TIRZ 4. Sugar Land and Newland Communities put together the conceptual plan for the 300 acres of commercial reserve in the TIRZ boundary. A Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone is a tool that city and county governments can use to publicly finance structural improvements and enhance infrastructure within a defined area. The goal of a TIRZ is to create additional new value via development that brings in more taxes and reinvest that tax value back into the designated area rather than use general property tax to fund the improvements. Sugar Land first used a TIRZ as an economic development tool to get Town Square built. With that hugely important and successful de-
velopment done it now is the city’s TIRZ model. Background information to council members says “reinvestment zone No. 4 will facilitate a program of public improvements including entertainment venues, theaters, plazas, stadiums, parks and associated projects within the entertainment district.” Development of an entertainment district requires significant public investment in public buildings, parking, plazas and spaces. The zone could not be developed without the public infrastructure and facilities financed by the zone. It will cover approximately 701.96 acres, and will be created for a term of 30 years. No council members asked any questions or made any comments prior to their vote of approval on the consent agenda, which included the creation of TIRZ No. 4.
Clements High School Stars Dance Team sold a record number of poinsettia plants this year to help fund their competition season and new costumes for next year. The team members went to local businesses and residents in the First Colony area to sell poinsettias back in October attempting to get as many orders as possible. Their efforts were met with
great success. Therefore they look forward to competing in a Houston area competition February 13th, and then a state competition in Dallas on February 20th. Director, Ms. Chelsea Harrison is very grateful to the community for all of the support, and wishes everybody a happy holiday season. Stars Dance Team members shown are, Left to Right, 1st
row, Nasim Heydari, Christina Daniels, Grace Chen, Harley Guel, Katherine Saunders, and Morgan Davis. 2nd row, Michelle Shutter, Anna Busier, Lauren Castiglioni, Taylor Rainosek, and Victoria Cervantes. 3rd row Melinda Taylor, Victoria Fortenberry, Mikaela Austin, Krystal Tanaka, and Monica Seethram.
Election From Page 1
Republican Chairmen) came quickly with the agreement of the Elections Administrator. We were shown how the process would work with an actual set-up of the entire check-in to voting process,” Miller said. “With the Secretary of State’s Elections section also advocating the Joint Election and then the County Commissioners voting in complete agreement, I believe this will serve Fort Bend County voters very well in conducting the
Primary Election,” he said. Bishop said the county election administration has worked to remove some of the concerns her party had lsuch as fewer number of election judges from the Democratic Party, and inadequate number of polling sites. The administration had done everything she had asked for and hence her confidence that the process will be smooth, benefiting all voters.
be efficient and that everyone would be treated the same... no more singling out of who is a Republican or a Democrat by having separate lines. Everyone will be in the same line. This process will also save money because there will be fewer people involved in the process and one set of voting equipment will be needed. “The other factor is that our agreement (Democrat and
Building homes of quality and distinction for over 40 years.
Plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (10/08)
DECEMBER 23, 2009 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • Page 3
Community news Jeff McMeans files for County Court-at-Law No. 2 Attorney Jeff McMeans has announced his bid to seek the Republican nomination for County Court-At-Law #2 in Fort Bend County, the bench currently held by his father Judge Walter McMeans. Walter McMeans recently announced he would not seek re-election after 22 years on the bench. Jeff McMeans, a lifelong Fort Bend County resident and lifelong Republican, has his own law firm in Richmond which focuses primarily on criminal, juvenile, family, civil, and probate law. “Dedication to the law and our community are priorities that I strive for, and my extensive background will enable me to make strong, quick and fair decisions involving sensitive juvenile cases, as well as hardened criminals,” said McMeans. McMeans is a 1984 graduate of Dulles High School, a 1988
McMeans graduate of Texas A&M University and a 1992 graduate of Texas Tech School of Law. He worked for the Fort Bend County Attorney’s Office, is a former Assistant Prosecutor for the City of Stafford, and was a four-time elected Republican Fort Bend County official for 16 years. He was a Republican Party Delegate to the 2002 National convention, is a former Director
of the Fort Bend Bar Association and Fort Bend County Criminal Bar Association, and is a member of the Houston, State of Texas, and Aggie Bar Associations. He is also a life member of the Fort Bend Fair Association, and a long time member of Ducks Unlimited. McMeans is actively involved in community service and mediation, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Dispute Resolution Center. McMeans coaches his two sons in Sienna Plantation Youth Baseball, is a former Lamar Little League coach, plays competitive softball and attends River Pointe Church. “My unsurpassed trial experience in the areas of law heard by this court and the fact that I have handled over 1200 more cases than anyone else in this race makes me the most qualified candidate,” McMeans said.
Jeff Lutz moves to RE/MAX Fine Properties RE/MAX Fine Properties has announced that Jeff Lutz, top producing REALTOR©, has moved his business to RE/MAX Fine Properties. Lutz, a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), has over eight years of experience in the real estate business, including seven years with RE/MAX. “I am excited to join RE/MAX Fine Properties and will continue delivering to my clients the same level of personal service they’ve come to expect,” said Lutz, RE/ MAX Hall of Fame club member. “The level of professionalism in this office and support is amazing, and the vision that RE/MAX Fine Properties has makes this a logical choice as I expand my business.” Jeff and Darlene, his wife of 20 years, have resided in Fort Bend County for 16 years and have called Needville their home
Lutz for the last eight years. Busy with three sons (Austin, a Freshman at Texas A & M, Travis,16 and Cameron,13), Jeff still finds time to be involved within the community. He is an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, participates in numerous activities for Needville ISD, and is the current Needville Athletic
Booster Club President. “We are very excited and honored to have a veteran agent such as Jeff Lutz join our family of Realtors” said Co-Ooner Minesh Patel. “We’ve seen how he handles clients, and the quality of professionalism he demonstrates is truly amazing. Recently inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame along with being a six time 100% Club member, Jeff’s resume reflects the high caliber of business he has attained. His experience, knowledge and enthusiasm compliment our office well and we expect him to reach even greater levels of success with RE/MAX Fine Properties.” Lutz’s office at RE/MAX Fine Properties, located at 4500 Hwy 6 South in Sugar Land, can be reached by calling 832-368-5719, or visiting www.Ask4meJeffLutz. com.
DHS ProGrad 2010 Car Wash Fundraiser Program Sugar Land Mayor’s State of the City address The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Governmental Relations Division and the City of Sugar Land present “The State of the City” breakfast meeting on Friday, Jan. 15, 2010 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. They will present to the citizens the City’s Annual summary of Activities. Join Mayor Jimmy Thompson and City Manager Allen Bogard as they highlight the challenges and successes of 2009 and the plans and visions for 2010. Ticket prices are as follows: Individual - $25 and Corporate Table of ten - $300. Don’t miss this informative annual event. You may register on-line at fortbendchamber.com or please contact David Crowl with the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce at 281-491-2497 or david@fortbendcc.org.
Purchase MISTER HOTSHINE discounted car wash passes. Nice to give for holiday gifts or stocking stuffers to teachers, coaches, co-workers, etc. Full service passes ($12.49) good at the Lexington/Hwy 6 or any full service location. Express wash passes ($5) good at Dulles Ave. Either pass can be used towards an upgraded wash package at any full service location. Passes do not expire. 50 percent of all proceeds go to DHS ProGrad. Contact Paul Waddell at pwadell@chromalp.com or 832-453-7001
Suzette Peoples Broker /Owner 21 years of experience!
Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com 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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FREE THROW CONTEST Girls and boys, ages 10 to 14 (as of January 1, 2010), are invited to show off their Free Throw skills in the statewide contest sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Join us at the St. Theresa Youth Center, 707 Wood St. (behind St. Theresa Church), Sugar Land on Sunday, January 10, 2010, with proof of age and written parental consent. Register and amaze us with your Free Throw skills. Plan on arriving by 12:30 p.m. to register and warm up for the competition that starts at 1:00 p.m. All contestants receive a free commemorative Tshirt and a free ticket for one at an upcoming Knights of Columbus Fish Dinner. For more information, contact Ken Stilling at 281-437-2216 or 281-750-5446.
SUGAR CREEK Great 1 story on huge corner lot. 3 bedFIRST COLONY/SUGAR LAND! Popular 1 rooms & study. Seller has updated carpet, tile paint story Emerald plan! Huge over size lot! 3 in and out and roof replaced. Shows great and price bedrooms and study! Huge island kitchen. already reduced to go fast in the low $200’s. Beautiful open plan! Great location and low FIRST COLONY taxes. Priced to go fast at $215,000.
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CITY OF SUGAR LAND ETJ! PERRY 2 story with master down and gameroom up. Huge cul de sac lot! Built in 2003. Tile and wood laminate floors thru out. 3 car dettached garage! Priced to go at $190,000.
First Colony/Sugar Land! Over 3100 sqft 4 bedrooms 3 full baths. Bedroom/bath down. Game room up. All new interior/exterior paint 2009! New carpet and tile 2009! Reduced to go in the $200’s and $5,000 in closing costs. Seller spent over $32K getting house ready to sell.
Mortgage Banker can do loans in less than 30 days! Call Suzette or email: Speoplesrealtor@aol.com
Wharton County Junior College is GOING GREEN with its
Lawsuit From Page 1 and omissions (by Linebarger and others), whereby Ross lost the property, they would comprise a “Keystone Kops” comedy of errors, the lawsuit states. By virtue of the omissions and commissions by the authorities, Ross was placed in danger of losing the property in 2005 and by similar acts, she lost her chance to redeem the property in 2007.
The lawsuit claims breach of contract, negligent misrepresentation, and wrongful foreclosure. Charles Sutton, partner, with Linebarger said it is a pending litigation where “the taxpayer who lost the property failed to redeem it.” The taxpayer wants the court to “correct the mistake” made by the taxpayer herself, Sutton said. “In the court we expect to firmly prevail,” he said. County Attorney Roy Cordes said, “As this suit relates
to a delinquent tax collection the County is represented by Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP. “Defendants Patsy Schultz, Tax Assessor-Collector of Fort Bend County and Fort Bend County have filed a plea to dismiss plaintiffs’ claims for want of subject matter jurisdiction. The hearing will be held on January 4, 2010 beginning at 1:30 p.m. in Judge Cliff Vacek’s Court. “This office will not comment further until after the hearing.”
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continuing education schedule booklet. Beginning this spring, the course booklet will no longer be mass mailed to homes. It will be posted on the college’s webpage at wcjc.edu.
We have a program for everyone! Enhance your skills. Receive a certification. Take a class for fun.
Business and industry can also benefit from our customized employee training programs.
Start Smart in the new year with a Continuing Education course at WCJC!
Learn more about of an array of courses, including but not limited to: • Child Development • Office Training • Concealed Handgun • Personal Enrichment • College Course Preparation • Professional Development • Computer Technology • Programs for Senior Citizens • Emergency Medical Services • Small Business Development • Fitness • Test Preparation • Healthcare Professions • Tax Preparation • Motorcycle Safety AFFORDABLE & CONVENIENT SHORT TERM TRAINING ONLINE or CLASSROOM TRAINING LEISURE LEARNING • CAREER DEVELOPMENT • CUSTOMIZED CORPORATE TRAINING
Four Campus Locations Near You! Wharton • Sugar Land • Richmond • Bay City
1-800-561-WCJC (9252) • wcjc.edu WCJC is an E.O.E. institution.
Page 4 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 23, 2009
Opinion Finance & Investment: Fool’s Gold By BILL & JARED JAMESON Gold has fascinated people and was valued even before it was considered money. Gold coins first appeared about 700 BC, when the concept of money (gold and silver in standard weights and coins) allowed the world’s economies to expand and prosper. The U.S. adopted gold as its monetary standard in 1900, and built up huge reserves until World War II forced the liquidation of some of the metal to pay for reconstruction efforts in wartorn countries. In 1971, the U.S. went off the gold standard by deregulating the price of the gold. Gold has since moved in value based on supply and demand, or more simply put, what people are willing to pay. But its allure seems to be constant, and when the market is down, there always is someone touting gold as the soundest investment. Does gold really measure up? Or is it just a flash in the pan? Myth #1: Gold keeps up with the rate of inflation - almost every gold advertisement and infomercial promotes gold as a way to protect your money from the effects of inflation. Inflation eats away at the purchasing power of the dollar, so that it requires more dollars to purchase the same goods in the future. Gold, as it is argued, retains its value, so that as inflation goes up, so does the value of gold represented in dollars. Reality: It depends - it is true that before 1971 gold values matched the rate of inflation. Under the Gold Standard, the Federal Reserve could only print as much currency as could be represented in gold and the price of gold was fixed by the government. Ever since President Richard Nixon released price controls, many other factors have influenced
gold’s real returns. An individual’s personal return on gold is more dependent upon the timing of the purchase and the price paid than it is on the direction and magnitude of inflation. For example, if you bought gold in 1969 and sold in 2007, your total return would have been 1,832 percent. The cost of goods for that same period went up just 561 percent, so your net return would have been 1,271 percent. However, if you had waited just five years until 1974 to buy, you would have actually lost money due to inflation, because the cost of goods was higher than gold’s total return. Always be conscious of how start and end dates affect any investment’s quoted performance, even gold’s. Myth #2: There is no risk associated with gold. Reality: Gold is affected by default, fraud, and theft, just like any other investment. Once you decide to buy gold as part of your investment portfolio, you then must decide in what form. You can buy actual gold, like bullion, or the rights to a mine. There also are mutual funds and ETFs that buy and store gold themselves, and others that purchase derivatives that represent the asset class. If you buy bullion, you could store it yourself, but then there is a risk of theft. Or you could deposit it at a bank, but if the bank goes under, your gold will be just another frozen asset. Either way, physical gold is illiquid. If the ability to sell at a moment’s notice is important to you, then a pooled investment like a mutual fund or ETF provides liquidity, but your gold will be subject to the same risks as other investments, such as fraud or derivative risk (third-party default). Myth #3: Gold never loses its value.
Musings: Celebrations
Bill and Jared Jameson Reality: Gold has gone through long and short stretches where its price has fallen. The price of gold fluctuates up and down every day. October 20, the price of an ounce hit a high of $1,066. By the middle of the next day it was down to $1,050, a loss of 1.5 percent in just 24 hours. In the early 1980s, prices hit a high of around $600 per ounce. Prices did not return to that level until 2006. In fact, if you had sold in 2002, you would have lost more than 50 percent over 20 years. Much has been made of the recent “lost decade” in the stock market, but even in the period surrounding the Great Depression, stocks did not perform nearly as poorly as gold did in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Some gold may have a place in a well-diversified portfolio, but the spectacular rise in gold’s price in 2009 is eerily similar to
the rise of oil from 2006 to 2009. Oil at $150 per barrel was “sure” to rise to $250. But that didn’t happen; oil instead fell more than 50 percent and has been hovering between $60 and $80 a barrel for several months now. The only “sure thing” about investing is that there always is risk, regardless of what you are investing in. Volatile times bring more risk, so your investments should be adjusted according to your risk tolerance, not according to whatever is being offered up as the next “golden” opportunity. History has proven time and time again that all that glitters is not gold. WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, contact Bill & Jared Jameson at wj@wjinterests.com or 281-6349400.
By JANICE SCANLAN As a child and now I love Christmas, but growing up in a small community, I was eight before I understood that everyone did not celebrate Christmas. There are more than 40 global celebrations of Winter Solstice alone. Christmas is one of the most famous in our part of the world, but other major religions celebrate this time of the year as a time of lights-- yes it does get dark. Goodness and a time of new beginnings are common themes as well. While some Winter Solstice traditions have been appropriated into Christianity such as the Festival of St. Lucy, Yule and other ancient traditions, others such as Hindus celebrate Pancha Ganapati from December 21-25. It centers on Lord Ganesha who is a remover of obstacles and creator of new beginnings. Hanukah varies by date, but lights are an important component and various lessons are incorporated into each evening usually sometime in December. Families celebrate with lessons, prayers and gifts. Islamic New Year was December 18 just last week and varies according to the Islamic Calendar. I’m not qualified to get into depth nor nuance of these celebrations and observances—and this column doesn’t have enough space to talk about them all. The point is that many celebrate this time of the year. As I read about the various religions, generosity and helping others is a theme throughout. It seems we have much in common we can agree on, whether Buddhist, Jew, Hindu, Christian or Muslim. So why do we often focus on differences rather than on what we can agree? One of the things that makes me proud to live in Fort Bend, is that we are well represented in all faiths and creeds. Many have sacrificed to erect temples, churches and other places of worship to their beliefs as well as to carry on good works. It struck me at Missouri City’s Snowfest, that a possible way we could be more tolerant and understanding of other religions, is that if I greet someone with Merry Christmas, they feel free to say Happy Hanukah or whatever greeting is important to their religion or celebration at this time of year or anytime for that matter. It would enrich my life to not feel uncomfortable expressing my belief, but also be able to enjoy some other believer’s traditions and the ways others express joy and wanting to be a better person. While nice, Happy Holidays does not seem to have the richness of expression that more personal beliefs do whatever they are. We all celebrate faith, hope and love in our own ways. It seems if we more openly and freely acknowledged all beliefs, that the American belief in religious freedom could be better realized. By celebrating the things that unite us such as the joy of helping others, we could have a richer life and better understanding of different beliefs and traditions. And more ways to express joy and good will to all, you and yours. Write to Janice at open.space@earthlink.net and express your way of finding joy.
“I believe that Fort Bend is a world-class county and a great place to live and work. I’ll continue working to help keep it that way!” Bob Hebert Paid for by the County Judge Bob Hebert Campaign, Pat Hebert, Treasurer
Sarah & Tom Abraham Lee & Betty Adams Marlene Adams Sharon Ainsworth Juan Alexander Joe B. & Helen Allen Farha Ahmed Jeff & Cindy Anderson Terry Anncellotti Herb & Emelia Appel Randal Arbuckle Kamal Ariss Masaud Baaba Bill Baird Mike Baldwin Robert Bamford Brian Bare Peter Barnhart Kathy Bass Karl Baumgartner Rex Baxter Ozzie Bayazitoglu Barry Beard Ed Beckham Jackson Belt Bill & Barbie Benton Mary Berna John & Julie Bickham Craig & Maralou Billig Don Birdwell Ken & Meridith Blackburn Debbie Blackburn Bert & Barbara Bleil Joe & Shirley Bonham III John Bonner Joe Bono Jim Boone Carrie Bosesenberg Judy Boyd Chris & Lillie Breaux Chris & Mandi Bronsell Linda & Jim Brown
Ashley Brown Carole & Bob Brown Randy Browning Larry Buehler Kent Burkett Rick Burley Don & Sherry Burns Todd Burrer Adele Butcher J.J. Butcher, Jr. John Cantu Dean Carpenter Bev Carter Ronald Castillo Jackie Chaumette Paul Cheng Nell Ciancarelli Joe Ann Clack Aaron Clark Becky Clepper James Condrey Erin Coppens Tom Crayton Paul Daigle Robert Darden Perri D’Armond Bob & Marilyn Davis Paul Davis Karyn Dean Bob Deforest Christine Delay Mike & Brenda Dinges Ron Dinges Mary Doetterl John Dorman Robert Douds James B. Duke Leslie & Don Dulin Truman Edminister Susan Edwards Chris & Christy Elam Diana Faries
Jeff Farrar Sandy Farris Jim Fatheree Bruce Fay Brad Ferguson Jim Feuerbach Richard & Becky Fields J. Derek Finley David Fisher Anthony Francis Bill Franks Raymond Franks Gerald Freed Joe Freudenberger Linda Frey Alex Garcia Lisa Garrett Louis Garvin Karen Garza Dick Gay Paula Gibson Glen & Terri Gill Benita Gill Albert & Marilyn Glover Chris Goan Doug & Susie Goff Mary Alice Gonzales Kaye Goolsby Frank Gracely Jerry L. Graham John & Cindy Grillo Bruce Grover Paul Grover Jim Grover Melissa Guadiano Mayor Joe & Doris Gurecky Jeff Haley Linda Hancock Bud & Shelley Hannes Bob & Susan Hargarther David & Anita Harris Teague Harris
Rick Harsch Diane Hasell Linda Hausman-Pels Erna Hay Ferrell & Penny Hays Charlie Herder Melody Hess Frank & Trudy Hester Chuck Hewell Jim Hoelker Marcia Holmes Carl Hopkins Roger Hord Peter & Susan Houghton Jo Howard Lynne & Rod Humphries Kim & Scott Icenhower Bill & Susan Jameson Jared Jameson Laurie Janis Pam Jaramillo Mitch & Laurie Jenkins Charles Jessup Buddy Jimerson David Johnson Dave Johnston Bobby Jones Dennis & Candy Jones Linda Kalinowski Tim Kaminski Tim Kana David Keel Monya Keenen Eddie Knight Douglas Knopka Hal & Fran Knueppel Kenny Kucherka Julianne Kugle Rocky Lai Dusty Lane Dare Lawson Bruce Lawton
Bob Leared Claude & Laura Leatherwood Kyle Lednicky Bob & Ann Lee Kristin Lytle Mark Magee Chris Malinowshi Louis Manuel Marvin & Debbie Marcell Richard Marriott Joel Marshall Noel Mascarenhas Jeannie Mason Owen Matherne Kevin Matocha David Maxwell Ron & Susan McCann Richard & Karen McCarter Mac McCure Dan & Mary Ann McDonald Pat McDonald Wayne McLane Pam & Bill McNally Ray & Patsey McKnight Jim McRae Barbara Meeks Bruce Mercer Kelly & Steve Metzenthin Janet & Ray Meyer Wayne Meyer Mary Ann Mihills Rick Miller Jamie & Lisa Miller Margaret Minton Jack & Donna Mohlo Jim & Diane Moore Vincent & Regina Morales Richard Mueller Ronnie Mullinax James Muska Pat Naff Darlene Neeley
Billie Neuhaus Paul Noyd John & Diana Null Ashley O’Connell David Oliver Greer Pagan James Pappas Patti Parish-Kaminski Randy & Gail Parker Cee Cee Parker Dennis Parmer Parke Patterson Robert Patton Barbara Payne gary Pearson BJ & Kindal Pelter Charles Pence John & Kathy Perry Barkley Peschel Justin Phy Don Poe Brad Price Larry Pullen George Purvis Shantha Raghuthaman Dianna Rainey Tom Ramsey Bob & Yvonne Ramsy Jennifer Raymond J. Tom Raymond Brad & Cindy Reaves Rick Reed Trey Reichert Kathy Renfrow E B Reyna Doyle & Maris Reynolds Michael Richard Bucky Richardson Bill & Lisa Rickert Gina Ricklefsen Robert Ring Justin Ring
Faye Roach Dan Roach Jack Roach Joe Robinson Paul & Pam Robinson Steve Robinson Randall & Marilyn Rockett Claire Rogers James Rogers Gary Rose Donald B. Roseman Debra Ross Jeff Ross E. Wayne Rouse Sharon Rowe Jim Russ Tom Sage Martin Saldua Kim Savage Nina Schaefer Joe Schmid David Scholler Patsy Schultz Barbara Seelhorst Joe Segura Alan & Joyce Senior Carlos Sepeda Shay Shafie Dinesh Shah Sunil Sharma Thelma Shelton David Showalter Paul Simmons David Smith Don & Merle Smithers Cheryl & Kenneth Stalinsky Liz Stegall Jo Ann Stevens Greg Stirman Mike & Connie Stone Travis Stone Jon Strange
Faye Stromatt Jim Sturgeon Todd Swoboda Barbara Tague Ed Taussig Roberta & Cliff Terrell Mayor James & Gay Thompson James F. Thompson Mike Thornhill Alan Tinsley Jennie Trapolino Don Trull Charlie & Nancy Turner Llarance Turner Sharon Tusa John Van de Wiele Paula & Rick Van Dyke David & Claudia Vasquez Christina & John Vasquez Lane & Vicki Ward Sharon Watson Allison Wen Robert White J.C. Whitten Tom & Jackie Wilcox Jeff & Julie Wiley David Wilkins Chris Wilson Bob Wilson Greg Wine Robert Wolter Raul Wong Daniel Wong David Wood Marian Wright Quinn & Claudia Wright Jody Wyse Bridget Yeung Frank Yonish Bill & Pamela Zemanek Randi & Jason Zumwalt (partial list at time of printing)
FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 23, 2009 • Page 5
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5HOD[ DQG HQMR\ WKH GLIIHUHQFH 2008 FORD RANGER XLT SUPER CAB BLACK A38558 Classic Chevrolet 23,056 miles 877-351-3803 $15,288
2006 GMC SIERRA 1500 ONYX BLACK CREW CAB SL2 315063 Classic Chevrolet 45,971 miles 877-351-3803 $16,769
2008 CHEVROLET EXPRESS SUMMIT WHITE CARGO VAN 142154 Classic Chevrolet 23,680 miles 877-351-3803 $14,988
2007 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE LT 1500 SILVER BIRCH METALLIC 284970 Classic Chevrolet 58,966 miles 877-351-3803 $22,975
2009 Cadillac DTS Crystal Red 4-dr sedan 138220 Classic Chevrolet 3,868 miles 877-351-3803 $33,912
2009 Buick LaCrosse CXL Dark Slate 243984 Classic Chevrolet 15,911 miles 877351-3803 $19,350
2006 Acura TL Black Pearl 4-dr 6 cyl. 047858 Classic Chevrolet 62,077 miles 877351-3803 $20,488
2006 Toyota RAV4 Sport White 000779 Classic Chevrolet 59,357 miles 877-3513803 $15,488
2010 Chevrolet Camaro Red 2-dr Coupe A9133261 Classic Chevrolet 3,943 miles 877-351-3803 $37,900
2008 Chevrolet Corvette Black 134389 Classic Chevrolet 800 miles 877-3513803 $42,988
2004 Dodge Dakota SXT White 690185 Classic Chevrolet 64,965 miles 877-3513803 $9,988
2009 Chevrolet Impala LT Black 119477 Classic Chevrolet 29,522 miles 877-3513803 $15,588
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT1 Red 240258 Classic Chevrolet 28,224 miles 877-351-3803 $17,988
2008 Chrysler Sebring LX Conv. White 209556 Classic Chevrolet 43,424 miles 877351-3803 $12,956
2005 MINI Cooper Jet Black hatchback L12033 Classic Chevrolet 56,568 miles 877351-3803 $14,988
2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT White 8G199806 Classic Chevrolet 25,869 miles 877351-3803 $47,977
2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LS Onyx Black 305706 Classic Chevrolet 61,680 miles 877351-3803 $12,988
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Silver 164890 Classic Chevrolet 47,720 miles 877-3513803 $19,988
2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT White 127951 Classic Chevrolet 319 miles 877-351-3803 $41,988
2006 Scion tC 2dr Coupe Dk. Red 280514 Classic Chevrolet 10,062 miles 877351-3803 $15,988
2007 Dodge Charger SXT Black 826647 Classic Chevrolet 45,365 miles 877-3513803 $14,588
2005 Chevrolet SSR LS Truck Silver 119812 Classic Chevrolet 42,432 miles 877351-3803 $24,988
1997 Pontiac Grand Am SE 4dr Beige 773064 Classic Chevrolet 102,758 miles 877-351-3803 $3,988
2002 Honda Accord SE 4Dr Red 078504 Classic Chevrolet 78,492 miles 877-3513803 $7,988
2004 Nissan Altima 4Dr Pewter 113299 Classic Chevrolet 93,911 miles 877-3513803 $8,988
2006 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4Dr Lt. Gray 840317 Classic Chevrolet 40,636 miles 877351-3803 $16,575
2007 Lexus ES350 4Dr Dk. Red 041304 Classic Chevrolet 70,908 miles 877-3513803 $24,988
2008 Toyota Avalon 4Dr Silver 290811 Classic Chevrolet 35,169 miles 877-351-3803 $19,988
2008 Chevrolet Corvette Conv. Red 103408 Classic Chevrolet 12,317 miles 877351-3803 $42,988
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT1500 DBlue 159311 Classic Chevrolet 42,484 miles 877-351-3803 $24,988
2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ Black 174015 Classic Chevrolet 2,819 miles 877351-3803 $38,988
2008 Chevrolet Equinox LT Dk. Blue 057471 Classic Chevrolet 54,469 miles 877351-3803 $17,488
2008 Nissan Altima 2.5SL 4Dr Tan 502920 Classic Chevrolet 14,218 miles 877351-3803 $18,488
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Gray 151373 Classic Chevrolet 5,002 miles 877-351-3803 $37,100
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT Silver 129692 Classic Chevrolet 4,769 miles 877-351-3803 $39,988
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle Salsa Red 409143 Classic Chevrolet 6,794 miles 877351-3803 $18,990
2008 Ford Ranger XLT Super Cab Black A38558 Classic Chevrolet 23,056 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HDWhite 215477 Classic Chevrolet 26,150 miles 877-351-3803 $36,988
2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500LS Pewter 339575 Classic Chevrolet 72,074 miles 877-351-3803 $8,988
2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Black 195004 Classic Chevrolet 3,156 miles 877-351-3803 $39,450
2008 Chevrolet Silverado LT Gray 151373 Classic Chevrolet 5,002 miles 877351-3803 $37,100
2008 Ford Ranger XLT Super Cab Black A38558 Classic Chevrolet 23,056 miles 877-351-3803 $15,288
2009 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Gray 103518 Classic Chevrolet 16,411 miles 877-3513803 $34,888
2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Red 247800 Classic Chevrolet 28,787 miles 877351-3803 $18,988
2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic Beige 112766 Classic Chevrolet 118,353 miles 877-351-3803 $13,488
2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Red V-8 299232 Classic Chevrolet 102,428 miles 877-351-3803 $10,688
2008 Chevrolet Express Ext. Van White 177235 Classic Chevrolet 33,150 miles 877351-3803 $19,688
2008 Ford F-150 Lariat White B17879 Classic Chevrolet 35,401 miles 877-3513803 $29,988
2004 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 White 298298 Classic Chevrolet 88,862 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Silver 207374 Classic Chevrolet 33,740 miles 877-351-3803 $29,988
2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLE Z71 Red 160926 Classic Chevrolet 29,051 miles 877351-3803 $39,988
2006 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4Dr Lt. Gray 840317 Classic Chevrolet 40,636 miles 877351-3803 $16,575
2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LS Onyx Black 305706 Classic Chevrolet 61,680 miles 877351-3803 $12,988
2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT White 8G199806 Classic Chevrolet 25,869 miles 877351-3803 $47,977
2009 Chevrolet Impala LT Black 119477 Classic Chevrolet 29,522 miles 877-3513803 $15,588
2008 Toyota Avalon 4Dr Silver 290811 Classic Chevrolet 35,169 miles 877-351-3803 $19,988
2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2006 Acura TL Black Pearl 4-dr 6 cyl. 047858 Classic Chevrolet 62,077 miles 877351-3803 $20,488
2009 Cadillac DTS Crystal Red 4-dr sedan 138220 Classic Chevrolet 3,868 miles 877-351-3803 $33,912
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT1 Red 240258 Classic Chevrolet 28,224 miles 877-351-3803 $17,988
2009 Buick LaCrosse CXL Dark Slate 243984 Classic Chevrolet 15,911 miles 877351-3803 $19,350
2010 Chevrolet Camaro Red 2-dr Coupe A9133261 Classic Chevrolet 3,943 miles 877-351-3803 $37,900
2005 Chevrolet SSR LS Truck Silver 119812 Classic Chevrolet 42,432 miles 877351-3803 $24,988
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT1500 DBlue 159311 Classic Chevrolet 42,484 miles 877-351-3803 $24,988
2007 Dodge Charger SXT Black 826647 Classic Chevrolet 45,365 miles 877-3513803 $14,588
2005 MINI Cooper Jet Black hatchback L12033 Classic Chevrolet 56,568 miles 877351-3803 $14,988
2002 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Red V-8 299232 Classic Chevrolet 102,428 miles 877-351-3803 $10,688
2009 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L 4Dr Wagon White 430168 Classic Chevrolet 29,661 miles 877-351-3803 $15,988
2008 Volkswagen New Beetle Salsa Red 409143 Classic Chevrolet 6,794 miles 877351-3803 $18,990
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 Silver 207374 Classic Chevrolet 33,740 miles 877-351-3803 $29,988
2008 Chrysler Sebring LX Conv. White 209556 Classic Chevrolet 43,424 miles 877351-3803 $12,956
2007 Lexus ES350 4Dr Dk. Red 041304 Classic Chevrolet 70,908 miles 877-3513803 $24,988
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Page 6 • FORT BEND INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 23, 2009
Legal Notices
Notice Public Hearing Stafford Municipal School District will hold a public hearing on the Annual Performance Report and Academic Excellence Indicators at the February 8, 2010 School Board meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Stafford Municipal School District Administration Building in the Boardroom, 1625 Staffordshire, Stafford, Texas, 77477.
Music Magic boys Teddy Jefferson and Ethan Hendrix during their recent Fall 2009 class.
Music Magic Music Magic, an enrichment program, is for six and seven year old boys who like music and singing and want to learn more. The eight-week program brings music alive for the boys through the use of movement, singing, musical games, and other child-centered activities. Boys develop better large muscle coordination, pitch matching, increased focus, rhythm awareness and musicianship. The Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas, renowned for their positive, proactive musical education of boys, administers the Music Magic program. Sara Ward, a staff member of the organization for over 20 years, serves as the Music Magic director. Music Magic will continue its 13th season on Tuesday evenings at the First United Methodist Church of Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, from 6:30 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. beginning Jan.19 and ending March 9. The cost for the course is only $70 and no auditions are required for this class. Boys will receive a free Music Magic T-shirt after classes start. Call the choir office at 281-240-3800 to preregister or visit www.fbbctx. org. You can also check out their fan page on Facebook.
Missouri City Flag Football League registration now under way Are you ready for some football? Youths between the ages of 6 and 13 can now register for Missouri City’s Youth Flag Football Program. Two Divisions are playing this year, one for 6- to 9-yearolds and the second for 10- to 13-year-olds. A $100 fee per child covers team shirts, trophies and other costs. Teams play an eightgame season as well as playoff and championship games for each division. The football games will begin Jan. 16 at Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence Blvd. Games will be played on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with no more than two games per week. Practices will start on January 11. In order to participate, parents must present a copy of their child’s birth certificate. Coaches are needed. If you are interested, contact Kyle Frye with the Missouri City Parks and Recreation Department at 281-403-8637 or kfrye@missouricitytx.gov for more information. When: January 11-February 27, 2010 Where: Hunters Glen Park, 1340 Independence Blvd., Missouri City, TX 77489 Cost: $100 per child, ages 6-13. Registration ends Dec. 31.
SMSD Education Foundation’s Golf Tournament
Stafford MSD Education Foundation will host its first Golf Tournament, March 18, 2010. All proceeds of the charity tournament will go directly to the Foundation to help support student scholarships and teacher grants. Registration is open to the first 36 teams or 144 players. Several sponsorship levels are available from $250 for hole sponsorships to $5,000 for shirt sponsorship. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Registration forms are available at www.stafford. msd.esc4.net or by emailing foundation@stafford. smd.esc4.net. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.
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 THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: SHARON BARILE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF EVANGELINE M. BARILE 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 25, 2010 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 401 Jackson Street, Suite105. We are located on the first floor of the courthouse building. The case is presently pending before the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas, and was filed on August 17, 2009. It bears cause number 09-DCV-174173 and is styled: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP vs Sharon Barile, Glenda Barile Salazar and the Unknown Heirs at Law of Evangeline M. Barile In Re: 507 Colony Lake Estates Drive, Stafford, Texas 77477. The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: MARK G. TOHABI BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP 15000 SURVEYOR BOULEVARD, SUITE 100 ADDISON, TX 75001 972-386-5040 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: PLAINTIFF BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, L.P, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS BY AND THROUGH ITS AnORNEY OF RECORD, MARK G. TORABI OF BARREn DAFFIN FRAPPIER TURNER & ENGEL, LLP, 15000 SURVEYOR BLVD., ADDISON, TEXAS 75001, 972-386-5040, BROUGHT SUIT AGAINST DEFENDANTS SHARON BARILE, GLENDA BARILE SALAZAR AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF EVANGELINE M. BARILE, TO ENFORCE THE VENDOR’S LIEN ON AND ASSERT SUPERIOR TITLE TO THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 507 COLONY LAKE ESTATES DRIVE, STAFFORD, TEXAS 77477 AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: LOT TWENTY-NINE (29), IN BLOCK FOUR (4), OF COLONY LAKE ESTATES, SECTION ONE (1), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NO(S). 2452/B AND 2453/A, BOTH 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 DISTRICT CLERK ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT Fort Bend County, Texas By: Deputy District Clerk JOSIE PLATZ Telephone: 281-633-7613
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FORT BEND COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT Notice is hereby given that Fort Bend County is applying for the following federal and state public transportation funds to support public transportation services within Fort Bend County: DESCRIPTION AMOUNT RECEIVED FROM FY10 Federal Section 5310 Elderly $340,000.00 Texas Department of Transportation and Disabled Program Funding Any individual wishing to comment on the programming of these funds may do so by attending the public hearing to be held at 1:00 pm on January 5th, 2010 at the Fort Bend County Courthouse, 7th Floor Commissioner’s Court Room, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, Texas 77469. To request an application copy or for information regarding the program of projects, contact Paulette Shelton, Fort Bend County Transportation Director, 12550 Emily Court, Suite 400, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, telephone 281-633- 7433. Submitted by Dianne Wilson, Fort Bend County Clerk
NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF FORT BEND § By virtue of an Order of Sale dated OCT 22, 2009 delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the COUNTY COURT AT LAW 2 of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of THE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, OF THE HIGHLANDS plaintiff, and against MOHAMMAD IQBAL, defendant, in Cause No. 07-CCV-033178 for the sum of FOUR-THOUSAND-TWOHUNDRED-EIGHTY-TWO AND 01/100’s ($4282.01), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale. I did on the 30TH day of NOV, 2009, at 3:00 pm, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of Mohammad Iqbal, defendant(s), to-wit: LOT THIRTY –SEVEN (37), IN BLOCK THREE (3), OF THE HIGHLANDS, SECTION TWO (2) AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 22, PAGE 25, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, AND BEING MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2507 PLANTERS ROW, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77478. and on JAN 5, 2010, being the first Tuesday of said month, between the hours of 10:00 o’clock a.m. and 4:00 o’clock p.m., at the north entrance of the Fort Bend County Courthouse, in Fort Bend County, Texas, I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of IQBAL, MOHAMMAD, defendant, in and to said property. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY COURTHOUSE, RICHMOND, TX. 77469 DATE: JAN 5, 2010 TIME: APPROX. 10:00 AM BY: SERGEANT M. KUTACH TROY E. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on the 28th day of OCTOBER 2009 by the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #09-DCV-172553 in favor of the Plaintiff - WATERSIDE ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $6,007.86++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 13TH day of NOVEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -LETITIA BECK had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT FORTY-ONE (41) BLOCK TWO (2) OF WATERSIDE VILLAGE, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 2304/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY DESCRIBED AS 1451 SAND LAKE LANE, RICHMOND, TEXAS 77407. 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: $137,620.00 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 the 24th day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 400TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #07-DCV-157236 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $5,944.76++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -KAY M. RADCLIFF AKA KAY M. RUNDGREN had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 14 IN BLOCK 2 OF A REPLAT OF CHIMNEYSTONE, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF IN VOLUME 29, PAGE 5, OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. (ACCOUNT NUMBER 2520020020140/ 2520020020140907) 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: $127,870.00 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 the 24th day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #09-DCV-170863 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $7,287.54++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -LAWRENCE WEST had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT SIXTY (60) IN BLOCK ONE (1) OF BRIARGATE, SECTION FOUR (4), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 12, PAGE 4 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 2150040010060907) 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: $85,660.00 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 the 24th day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 268TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #05-DCV-145351 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $15,434.09++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -JEISON SILVA, ETAL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 10, IN BLOCK 3 OF GREAT OAKS SOUTH SECTION 2, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 2315/A TO 2315/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 3040020030100907) 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: $114,430.00 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 the 24th day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 400TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #07-DCV160657 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT#7 & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $31,635.44++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -PETER JUSTIN had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT SEVENTEEN (17), IN BLOCK TWO (2) OF SANDERS RIDGE, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO. 1094/A OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 8032010020170/8032010020170907) 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: $272,100.00 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 the 24th day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 434TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #06-DCV-153122 in favor of the Plaintiff - FORT BEND COUNTY & ET-AL Plaintiff, for the sum of $11,097.14++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -CARLOS NOE ARGUETA AKA CARLOS NOE ARGUETA ROMERO & ET-AL had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: TRACT 13, IN BLOCK 14 OUT OF RESERVE ‘G’ OF RIDGEMONT, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, AND HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF IN VOLUME 10, PAGE 11, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, AND VOLUME 187, PAGE 97 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS; THIS TRACT LYING IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN THE GENERAL WARRANTY DEED FROM BENJAMIN J. GIBSON TO NAVIGATOR PROPERTIES, INC., DATED SEPTEMBER 13, 2000 AND RECORDED UNDER CLERK’S FILE NO. 2000078654, IN THE OFFICIAL PUBLIC RECORDS OF REAL PROPERTY OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (ACCOUNT NUMBER 6254020141300907) 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: $58,010.00 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 the 3RD day of NOVEMBER 2009 by the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08DCV-167657 in favor of the Plaintiff ROYAL LAKES ESTATES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $3596.50++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 13TH day of NOVEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -DEJA DERICK JOHNSON had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 17 IN BLOCK 2, ROYAL LAKES ESTATES SUBDIVISION, SECTION 1, A SUBDIVISION OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED AT CLERK’S FILE NO. 1999043736 AND SLIDE 1854B 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: $496,470.00 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 the 28th day of OCTOBER 2009 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-168041 in favor of the Plaintiff - ROYAL LAKES ESTATES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $3654.00++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 3rdday of DECEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -VINCENT B. GRAYSON AND TABORI GRAYSON had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 2 IN BLOCK 8, ROYAL LAKES ESTATES , SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDED AT CLERK’S FILE NO. 20000617 AND SLIDE 2020B 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: $399,550.00 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 22nd, 2009 by the 240TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-161688 in favor of the Plaintiff - QUAIL BRIDGE COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $1,120.00++++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 12TH 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY 2010 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) -ALEXANDRINE FADIPE had of, in or to the following described Real Property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT FOURTEEN (14), BLOCK ONE (1), QUAIL BRIDGE SUBDIVISION, SECTION ONE (1), FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, BEING A REPLAT OF RIDGEMEONT SUBDIVISION, SECTION FIVE (5), AS RECORDED IN VOLUME 25, PAGE 25, PAGE 14 OF THE FORT BEND COUNTY MAP RECORDS (THE “PROPERTY”) ALSO KNOWN AS 5418 RIDGEMONT PLACE, 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
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 CONSTABLE SALE Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution and / or Order of Sale issued on October 28TH, 2009 by the 434TH DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #07-DCV-156834 in favor of the Plaintiff - QUAIL GREEN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, for the sum of $4,689.10++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the OCTOBER 19TH 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY 2010 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) -RONALD J. HAMILTON AND BARBARA A. HAMILTON had of, in or to the following described Real Property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 13 IN BLOCK ONE OF QUAIL GREEN, SECTION TWO (2), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 28, PAGE 1, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY ,TEXAS (THE “PROPERTY”) ALSO KNOWN AS 2723 GREEN MEADOW COURT, MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS 77489. 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 26th day of OCTOBER 2009 by the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas in cause #08-DCV-165719 in favor of the Plaintiff - THE ESTATES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC Plaintiff, for the sum of $1,821.66++++costs as taxed on said Execution and / or Order of Sale and further the sum of executing the same. I have levied on the 13TH day of NOVEMBER, 2009 and will offer for sale on the 5TH day of JANUARY, 2010 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) -KENNETH COMBS had of, in or to the following described Real property situated in Fort Bend County, Texas; viz.: LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 27, BLOCK TWO (2) OF HUNTERS POINT ESTATES, SECTION TWO (2), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OR THEREOF RECORDEDAT VOLUME 32, PAGE 23 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: $98,670.00 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
DECEMBER 23, 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ FORT BEND INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7
The Hurt Locker chosen as the best movie The Houston Film Critics Society honored THE HURT LOCKER as the best movie of 2009 and named George Clooney and Carey Mulligan best actor and actress in ceremonies Saturday. The organization also bestowed its Lifetime Achievement award posthumously to Patrick Swayze, the Houston-born actor who shot to fame with DIRTY DANCING in 1987 and starred in such motion pictures as GHOST and POINT BREAK. Swayze died Sept. 14. G.W. Bailey, a veteran character actor perhaps best known for his work in POLICE ACADEMY movies and in TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s THE CLOSER, received the societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Humanitarian of the Year Award for his work with the Houston-based Sunshine Kids Foundation. The Sunshine Kids was founded in 1982 to improve the quality of life for children with cancer by involving them in activities and travel. Bailey has served as executive director of the organization since 2001. The film critics society awards were presented in a film clip-filled ceremony Saturday at the Museum of Fine Artsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Brown Auditorium. THE HURT LOCKER, a riveting cinema verite-style
drama about U.S. soldiers serving on a bomb squad in Iraq, received three awards from the Houston group. Kathryn Bigelow was named Best Director and Barry Ackroyd received the award for cinematography. UP IN THE AIR also received three awards. In addition to the filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s star George Clooney, costar Anna Kendrick was named Best Supporting Actress and Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner were awarded the award for Best Screenplay. Other awards went to THE COVE which was named Best Documentary and to SIN NOMBRE for Best Foreign Language Film. Other winners included Christoph Waltz as Best Supporting Actor award for his work as a sadistic Nazi in INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS, and UP for Best Animated Feature. UPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s composer, Michael Giacchino, received the award for Best Score. The other music award went to Jarvis Cocker, Wes Anderson & Noah Baumbach for composing the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best song, Peteyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Song from FANTASTIC MR. FOX. The society handed out one other special award â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an outstanding achievement award to Margaret Stratton,
a veteran Houston film publicist who retired this year. Founded in 2007, the Houston Film Critics Society is comprised of critics from Houston-area newspapers, TV & radio stations and websites and was organized for the purpose of increasing public awareness of cinematic excellence and to encourage the publication and broadcasting of substantive critical commentary on film. This is the third year the organization has presented Best of the Year awards. The Houston Film Critics Society complete list of 2009 winners: 2009 Best Picture - The Hurt Locker 2009 Best Director - Kathryn Bigelow, The Hurt Locker 2009 Best Actor - George Clooney, Up in the Air 2009 Best Actress - Carey Mulligan, An Education 2009 Best Supporting Actor - Christoph Waltz, Inglourious Basterds 2009 Best Supporting Actress - Anna Kendrick, Up in the Air 2009 Best Screenplay - Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner, Up in the Air 2009 Best Animated Film Up 2009 Best Cinematography - Barry Ackroyd, The Hurt
Locker 2009 Best Documentary The Cove 2009 Best Foreign Film - Sin Nombre 2009 Best Original Score Michael Giacchino, Up 2009 Best Original Song Peteyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Song by Jarvis Cocker, Wes Anderson & Noah Baumbach, Fantastic Mr. Fox 2009 Outstanding Achievement Award - Margaret Stratton 2009 Humanitarian of the Year Award - G.W. Bailey 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award - Patrick Swayze The Houston Film Critics Society Top Ten Films for 2009: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
The Hurt Locker Up in the Air Star Trek Precious Inglourious Basterds Up (500) Days of Summer Avatar Invictus District 9
For further information about the Houston Film Critics Society or their 2009 awards, contact Nick Nicholson, President of the HFCS. Nicholson can be reached at Filmlords@gmail.com or at 713-303-7560.
Film Review I am not a big fan of Foreign Films because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m intimidated by subtitles; afraid I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get it. And I was not going to watch this one but some of my new-found film critic friends shamed me into it. Allegedly, a real film critic watches foreign films. Well, we all know that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not a real film critic; I just play one on the internet. This movie was a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed it from start to finish. It is a very simple story of gang violence and young love but told in a loving, suspenseful manner. El Casper is in love with Martha Marlene but keeps it a secret from his Honduran gang for fear of harm to his brash lover. Casper participates in a violent initiation of a young boy who the gang names El Smiley. The leader of the gang, Lil Mago, accidently kills Martha and casually tells Casper that he can get another girlfriend. Casper is devastated but cannot show his emotions in front of the gang. Meanwhile, the audience is introduced to a Honduran family that is riding the train with other immigrants who are in search of the good life in the U.S. Casper in on the run from the gang and ends up on the train with the immigrants and becomes inadvertently involved with a beautiful naĂŻve teenager named Sayra. This is a low-budget movie that cooks. In spite of limited resources, Writer/Director Cary Fukunaga demonstrates that he has the skill to make a movie that communicates those elusive feelings of compassion, fear, desperation, violence, hope, and love. I watched this movie on a screener DVD and stayed up until 1:00 a.m., so it had to be a pretty darn good movie in order to keep me up that late. Rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Roll. Grade 90. Larry H. Email sugarlaw@larryharrison.com
Automobile: Scion xD By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Scion xD is an urban subcompact with great space, good pep and a low price. The five-door xD is in its third model year with new standard and optional audio systems and vehicle stability control as standard equipment. The base retail price for the xD is $14,800 with a manual transmission and $15,600 with the automatic transmission. The xDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new standard AM/FM/CD/USB 1260-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system got more functionality for 2010. New features are an organic electroluminescent screen, iPod/USB connectivity, advanced sound retriever and a subwoofer RCA output. The standard Pioneer audio system has a USB port and universal auxiliary port on the center console that lets users listen to their portable music collection through the xDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six Pioneer speakers. The optional Alpine Premium audio system provides the same basic features as the standard Pioneer audio system with the exception of a 4.3-inch color touch panel thin-film-transistor screen, HD Radio technology, media expander and front and rear RCA outputs. Passengers can listen to HD Radio broadcasting with
the premium audio system and view text, song titles, album and artist name on the head unit. The RCA outputs allow for up to three amplifiers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; front, rear and subwoofer. The optional audio system will also power a back-up camera and is ready for a plug-in navigation unit. I like the aggressive look of the Scion xD. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boxy with a wide stance, thick muscular body and long, narrow back window. Wheel flares accentuate the body along with an integrated rectangular lower and upper grille and horizontal head lamps. The xDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side mirrors have integrated turn signals. The Scion xD rides on 16inch wheels and 195/60 R16 tires. Buyers have the choice of three standard wheel covers, which are shared with the xB. The Scion xD is powered
by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with dual variable valve timing with intelligence. It makes 128 horsepower and features a roller-rocker system and lightweight pistons for better fuel economy. Estimated miles per gallon are 27 in city driving and 33 on the highway. Customers can choose either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. The xD sits on a short, wide frame that produces an okay ride. To enhance control, the Scion xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear. Inside the Scion xD the instrument panel features indicator lamps, fuel guage, odometer and a radar-like speedometer and tachometer. The digital clock and HVAC and audio controls are on the center console. Storage and cargo space are plentiful
in the xD. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a change box handy for toll road drivers and even a storage tray under the steering wheel. The Scion xDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rear seats are 60/40 and fold flat for a level cargo space. For versatility, more legroom and added cargo space, they also slide six inches forward and back. The rear seats also can recline 10 degrees and be adjusted five different ways for added comfort. The test drive Scion xD came with the automatic transmission, electronic power steering, front disc and rear drum brakes, fourwheel anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control with traction control and brake assist, halogen headlights, intermittent front windshield wipers, rear window wiper, front bucket seats, cruise control, AC, rear window defogger, power door locks and windows, remote keyless entry and tilt steering wheel. With the options of a Scion security system, Bluetooth hands-free and carpet floor mats added the price totaled $17,193, including delivery/ processing. This is a perfect city runabout. It has plenty of cargo space in a stout body and the accelerator has attitude.
Not just oil, Pennzoil
PROUDLY SERVING FORT BEND SINCE 1981
Russell C. Jones Thelma Holoway Jones Lewis W. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chipâ&#x20AC;? Smith IV â&#x2014;? Real Estate â&#x2014;? Landlord/Tenant â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Banking â&#x2014;? Creditors' Rights â&#x2014;? Collections â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Business and Corporate Law â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Business Litigation â&#x2014;? Mergers and Acquisitions â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Estate Planning â&#x2014;? Probate â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Property Owners' Associations â&#x2014;? 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 specializing in
HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY 14090 Southwest Fwy, #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: (281)265-4263
www.charlottealexandermd.com Se Habla Espanol
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Page 8 â&#x20AC;˘ FORT BEND INDEPENDENT â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 23, 2009
Merry Christmas! Hrbacek & Associates,P.C. 130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 110
Sugar Land, TX 77478 lawfirm@Hrbacek.com
281-240-2424
Dean Hrbacek
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays
Nicolas Corredor, left, and Katherine Crockett, second grade members of the St. Laurence Catholic School Chess Club, participated in the 13th Annual Texas Grade Championships Chess Tournament the weekend before Thanksgiving. Their combined performance at the tournament earned St. Laurence the fifth place trophy for second grade teams.
from
Your District Attorney
Fort Bend Independent wishes all its readers and advertisers a MERRY CHRISTMAS! Suzette Peoples, Broker /Owner Merry Christmas to wonderful clients and friends! 21 years of experience!
Direct: 281-980-3322 www.peoplesproperties.com
Speoplesrealtor@aol.com
Merry Christmas! Sandersen Knox & Co., LLP, Certified Public Accountants 130 Industrial Blvd. #130 Sugar Land, TX 77478
281-980-6745 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
Andy Meyers Commissioner Precinct 3 Fort Bend County
David Hamner Sales Associate
s Hand wash s Clean windows s Dress tires
9 14 $ 95 $ 95 79 24 $ 95 $ 95 39 39 $ 95 10% $ off95 39 149 $ 95
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plus tax
M5
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other Expires9/30/09. 12/31/09 discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires
Front Wheel Alignment s )MPROVES FUEL ECONOMY s )NCREASES TIRE LIFE s )MPROVES VEHICLE HANDLING s 3AFER DRIVING s 2ECOMMENDED EVERY 12 months / 12,000 miles s -OST VEHICLES
Save
40!
$
plus tax
5!
M2
Save $
Save
20!
plus tax
$
M4
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other Expires9/30/09. 12/31/09 discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires
s Rotate and balance four (4) tires s %XCLUDES (EAVY $UTY TRUCKS
Save
20!
ANNIVER SARY
plus tax
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires 9/30/09. Expires 12/31/09
s )NSPECT RADIATOR FOR LEAKS s #HECK HOSES CLAMPS and belts s )NCLUDES UP TO GALLON of coolant
Email: Editor@fbindependent.com
plus tax
$
M6
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other 12/31/09 discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires Expires 9/30/09.
City of Sugar Land
NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EVE December 31, 2009 Sugar Land Town Square 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. - Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celebration 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. - New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Celebration Spectacular Entertainment, Live Music, Midnight Sugar Cube Drop and much moreâ&#x20AC;Ś Come help us celebrate! Alcohol available for purchase from 9 p.m. Free soft drinks served to designated drivers.
Front or Rear Brake Replacement
plus tax s 2EPLACE FRONT OR REAR brake pads/shoes s 3OME MODELS MAY BE SLIGHTLY HIGHER PRICED s 2ESURFACING OF ROTORS or drums is additional fee Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires 9/30/09.
on any collision Save repair over $1,500.*
60!
Maximum$ discount $250.
M7
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other 12/31/09 discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires Expires 9/30/09.
EST, THE NNEDWLIEST FRIE ROLET CHEVERSHIP DEAL TON! IN HOUS
95
Tire Rotation & Balance
Air Conditioning System Check level s A/C performance test
Replace 2 front wiper blades (most vehicles)
Cooling System Service
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other Expires9/30/09. 12/31/09 discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires
s Test A/C operation s Check refrigerant
s
M1
Valid only at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer. Offer valid with coupon. Hazardous Waste Fees may apply. Expires 9/30/09. Expires 12/31/09
$
Wiper Blade Replacement
*See dealer for details
M8
Expires 12/31/09
281-491-9000 to make a service appointment! CCall 281-491-4000
Diane Parks Graphic Artist
www.fbindependent.com
Merry Christmas!
Vehicle Wash & Vacuum
Campus groundbreaking at Texana Center. Frank Gracely, left, Regional Manager, External Affairs with AT&T, presented George Patterson, Chief Executive Officer and Dianne Wilson, Board of Trustees Chair, with a donation of $10,000 towards Texanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West Campus Project. â&#x20AC;&#x153;AT&T is proud to support Texana in their efforts to provide services to Texans with developmental disabilities and to allow these Texans to reach their full potential,â&#x20AC;? said Frank Gracely. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are thrilled about this gift from AT&T and will look forward to inviting them back when the West Campus is complete,â&#x20AC;? said George Patterson. In 2008, AT&T contributed $169 million through corporate, employee and AT&T Foundation giving programs. Supporting education has been a major focus for AT&T for more than a century, and education is a key philanthropy focus. The new West Campus Learning Center will provide vocational training, habilitation 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. Above, Frank Gracely, left, George Patterson, Dianne Wilson, Texana Center; Anita Najar, representative from the office of Dora Olivo, District 27; and Rep. John Zerwas, District 28.
10701 Corporate Drive, #282, Stafford, TX 77477 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487
281-242-3232
For ALL Your Vehicle Needs!
Texana Center receives donation from AT&T AT&T made a special presentation during the recent West
THE NEWEST, FRIENDLIEST CHEVROLE DEALERSHIPT IN HOUSTON!
Further information at 281-275-2885
www.sugarlandtx.gov/celebration.asp