Fort Bend Independent 012319

VOL 12 No. 4

email: editor@ independent.com

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2019

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City

GLO accepts application from Fort Bend homeowners affected

by Hurricane Harvey The Texas General Land Office (GLO) is currently accepting applications from Fort Bend County homeowners whose homes were impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Although the program is designed primarily for low-moderate income homeowners, all homeowners are encouraged to apply.

The program provides assistance for the following: •Repairing and rehabilitation of homes •Reconstruction

•Improving a damaged home so that it is stronger against natural disasters •Elevating homes above flood level •Temporary relocation assistance There are three easy ways to apply for assistance •Submit an application online at http://recovery.texas.gov/ individuals/programs/ homeowner-assistance/lowercolorado/index.html - Potential applicants should review

Top cheerleading team

the Homeowner Assistance Program Checklist to have all applicable documents ready prior to applying.

•Download a paper application from the General Land Offices website, or •Visit a Homeowner Assistance Office (the closest one is located at 1 Sugar Creek Center Blvd., Suite 200 in Sugar Land) Additional inquiries about the program can be emailed to cdr@recovery.texas.gov or 1-844-893-8937

Yoga for health at Sugar Land Town Square Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) Houston Chapter invites everyone to participate in the 12th annual “Yoga for Health, Health for Humanity Yogathon” or “Surya Namaskar Yajna.”

In Sugar Land, the event will be at Sugar Land Town Square (2711 Town Center Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479) on Saturday, January 26 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This is a free event. Free parking is available and everyone is requested to bring their own yoga mat.

HSS Houston Chapter cordially invites families & friends, community groups, Yoga centers, students, and individuals to learn and participate in the Health for Humanity Yogathon.

This program is open to

people of all ages, gender, and races and does not involve the worship of any deity.

“Surya Namaskar Yajna” or Salutation to Sun, involving a series of 10 yogic postures, aims to create awareness about Yoga and its advantages in achieving a healthy body, mind, and spirit.

The salutation integrates simple Yoga postures in 10-steps that, along with easy breathing techniques, can provide immense health benefits to both the body and the mind.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) initiated this health awareness project in 2006.

Since its inception, participants from 40 states actively took part via various Yoga Centers.

Community organizations,

schools, and colleges regardless of individual faiths and beliefs have participated and collectively performed over 4 million Surya Namaskars.

Community leaders and many elected officials across the nation have appreciated this initiative and encouraged their residents to participate and gain the benefits of an overall healthy lifestyle.

The Health for Humanity Yogathon aims to bring a sense of self-discipline in all of our lives by enabling one to connect with and internalize that habit of self-discipline. This initiates the process of living a healthy lifestyle.

For more information, call Shyama Popuri 832-520-5204 or Jaydeep Chaudhary 334332-5706.

The city of Sugar Land released a Request for Statements of Interest (RSI) on Jan. 18 to begin selection of a private-sector partner for a future hotel and convention (conference) center project.

The project is planned to be located on city-owned property adjacent to the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land and plaza near U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard.

The proposed hotel and convention (conference) center site is also located in a major primary employment center that includes Texas Instruments, Fluor Corporation’s planned new campus and the University of Houston - Sugar Land.

The city has partnered with industry leaders to develop destination venues, Constellation Field, home of

the Atlantic League Champion Skeeters, and Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land.

Similar to these two successful projects, no general property tax dollars will support the development or operation of the new hotel and convention (conference) center project.

The centre, a 6,400-seat live entertainment venue that has annually attracted more than 350,000 paid attendees during its first two years of operation, earning continued global recognition as one of the world’s top 10 theatre venues and providing a projected annual benefit to the community of $26.1 million over 30 years.

With these commitments for the creation of office and entertainment-centric, mixed-use regional activity center, the city plans to expand its economy,

adding jobs and generating new revenue that ensures Sugar Land is able to fund the high level of services expected by residents while maintaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates.

“Several years ago, citizens developed a vision for the future that included this project, and we are now at the brink of adding an asset that will improve the quality of life and financial wellbeing of our city,” said Director of Economic Development Elizabeth Huff. “Just like the other projects we are continuing to pursue and support - such as a world-class light industrial business park on the former Central Unit prison property and the transformation of the Imperial Sugar refinery site into a thriving regional activity center - we fully expect this venue will spur additional commercial

Sugar Land seeks partner for hotel, convention center project

County judge begins “Listening tours” Fort Bend County Judge KP George will host a series of countywide meetings dubbed the Listening Tour to engage Fort Bend County residents in constructive dialogue about Fort Bend County services and hear their concerns.

The first in the Listening Tour series will be in partnership with Fort Bend County Pct. 4 Commissioner Ken DeMerchant and Pct. 4 Constable Trever Nehls and is scheduled for January 31, 2019 at the University of Houston – Sugar Land (Brazos Hall Auditorium) located at 14000 University Blvd., Sugar Land, beginning at 7 p.m.

“This is a great opportunity for Fort Bend County residents to attend, listen and ask questions about what is happening in our county. I understand that not everyone can attend our regular commissioners court meetings where county business is discussed and I want to bring county government closer to the community and gain insight from county residents,” stated Fort Bend County Judge KP George.

Representatives from Animal Services, Road & Bridge, Human Resources, Parks, Clinical Health, Drainage, Office of Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services, Health & Human Services, Sheriff’s Office, Environmental Health, Engineering, and other departments are also expected to be in attendance.

and retail growth that further establishes Sugar Land as one of the strongest economies in the region.”

The city envisions the selection of a private development partner who will bring financial resources and construction expertise to build and operate a 350-room nationally branded hotel and a convention (conference) center of up to 50,000 square feet as recommended by a previously completed feasibility study. The deadline for submittals is March 15 at noon.

Any city support of the project will be limited to capital investment from project-generated revenues and funds restricted by state law for tourism and economic development purposes - further offsetting the demand on property taxes for residents through the resulting economic growth. For more information on this project or to download the RSI, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/hotelcc.

Fort Bend Christian Academy cheerleaders won their first state championship. Top row: Lauren Ramirez, Mandy Kamp, Sydney Hendershot, Maddi Roberts, Kiley Blanchard, Hannah Potter, Paige Estes, Naviah Dixon; Bottom row: Hailey Hendershot, Manoella Giovanez- Co-captain, Maci Winters -Co-captain, Georgia Scott - Captain, Shea Slovak - Chaplain, Skylar Shaw, Annie Matthews

Dulles High student earns Girl Scouts’ highest honor Jettie Court, a Dulles High School senior, has become a Gold Award Girl Scout. The honor recognizes girls in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable community service projects that require a minimum of 80 hours to complete. Less than five percent of Girl Scouts earn the award.

Court started an annual feminine hygiene product collection called “Help the Girls. Period” through Dulles High School’s student council. She led a team of 16 volunteers to help collect 213 packages of feminine products. Court donated the products to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry.

“I’ve always wanted to make an impact in my community,” said Court. “I found an article about feminine hygiene products drive in a Seventeen magazine a few years ago and it stuck with me.”

Court also ran a campaign to educate the community and heighten awareness of the need of feminine hygiene products. According to her, more than 40 million women in the United States living in poverty or on the brink of it have difficulty affording these types of products. “It’s not an issue that faces everyday people, so it wouldn’t be something that occurs to them,” said Court. “I want to educate the community about this issue because it doesn’t take a lot to make a Jettie Court, a Dulles High School senior, has major difference in someone’s life.”

Court plans to attend Texas A&M University become a Gold Award Girl Scout. Court started an annual feminine hygiene product collection called and study environmental studies.

“Help the Girls. Period.”

Abbott, Patrick promise education, property tax fixes

Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick both reemphasized their determination to solve the state’s public school finance system, including property tax reform, as each man officially began his second term of office.

Abbott and Patrick took the opportunity of their oath of office ceremony last week in Austin to lay out their priorities for the 86th Legislative Session before the assembled crowds on the north lawn of the Capitol building.

“I want to make this very clear,” said Abbott. “We’re going to do this session what no one thinks we are capable of achieving. We are going to finally fix school finance in Texas.”

Both were reiterating a promise they made alongside newly elected House Speaker Dennis Bonnen at a press conference last week, to work together to find a solution to one of the most complex and controversial issues in state government.

Cooperation was the theme of Patrick’s address, both across party lines and between the two chambers.

He was introduced by Flower Mound Senator Jane Nelson and

Houston Senator John Whitmire, each the longest serving Republican and Democrat, respectively, in the Senate.

Patrick said he asked these two members to introduce him to demonstrate his commitment to find a solution for education funding that crosses the aisle.

“The elections are over...for right now, and for the next 140 days, you expect us to do the work of the people.”

The Senate has already set aside billions for education and property tax reform in the proposed budget filed by Nelson, who also chairs the Senate Finance Committee.

The Senate’s version of the budget includes $3.7 billion to pay for a $5000 across-the-board pay raise for all public school teachers.

It also earmarks $2.3 billion to reduce reliance on the current “Robin Hood” system of recapture, where property wealthy districts remit some property tax money to the state to be redirected to poorer districts, contingent on enabling legislation.

Other budget highlights from the Senate include more money for mental health care access and

women’s health care programs.

It would dedicate all sporting goods sales tax revenues to Texas Parks and Wildlife and the state Historical Commission, putting more money towards the state’s parks and historical sites than ever before. The Senate plan would maintain current benefits and premiums for TRS-Care, the program that provides health coverage to Texas’ retired teachers.

Also filed on Tuesday was the supplemental budget bill, which totals $4.2 billion to balance the difference between what lawmakers budgeted for 2018 and 2019 last session and actual expenses and revenue.

The proposal would draw more than half of that, $2.5 billion, from the state’s Rainy Day Fund, and would cover Harvey-related disaster recovery and shortfalls in the state’s Medicaid program and employee and teacher retirement fund. In total, the Senate proposes $112 billion in non-dedicated general revenue to pay for state services over the next two years.

That’s $3 billion less than the House proposal, also unveiled on Tuesday.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019

NEWS Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital uses Heartflow advanced 3D imaging to diagnose coronary artery disease

40 YEARS OF T-SHIRTS IN A QUILT. UHV retiree Joe Ferguson displays a quilt Thursday that he had made from 49 shirts he accumulated during his 42 years working at UHV. The shirts include T-shirts from various events, such as the YMCA Corporate Cup and UHV’s annual convocation ceremony, in addition to shirts from campus departments. The shirts were dated from 1985 to as recent as 2018. Ferguson eventually plans to pass the quilt on to the university. He retired in March 2018 as the executive director of UH System Information Technology Shared Services.

Valentine Day Luncheon “For the Kids We Love”

Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) are benefiting from an advanced technology available at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital that can accurately model blood flow to the heart and reduce the need for invasive procedures.

The HeartFlow Analysis uses data gathered during a routine CT scan to create a computerized, color-coded, 3D model of the patient’s heart and associated blood flow, giving physicians a detailed look at both the location of artery blockages and their exact impact on the heart.

In the past, patients with chest pain were given a cardiac stress test followed by a traditional CT scan that might indicate coronary artery disease but could not conclusively prove that there were significant blockages. That required an invasive angiogram, in which a catheter is threaded through the groin to administer a contrast agent that can be seen by X-ray, allowing physicians to observe the patient’s blood flow.

“The new imaging technology is extremely valuable in helping us to more accurately diagnose patients with clinically significant coronary artery disease and thus de-

The Heartflow Analysis provides physicians with a color-coded 3D model to better understand how a blockage may impact blood flow. Image not representative of actual product. termine the most appropriate course of treatment based on their unique needs,” said Eric Longo, M.D., board-certified radiologist and Chair of the Department of Radiology at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. “With the HeartFlow 3D analysis, we can examine each point in the coronary anatomy to identify and locate lesions that are likely to cause

ischemia, or inadequate blood flow, without the need for an invasive diagnostic coronary angiogram.”

Coronary heart disease is the most common form of heart disease in the U.S., affecting more than 15 million Americans. Blockages in the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart increase a patient’s risk of heart attack, and common symptoms include chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath and heart palpitations.

A recent study of nearly 400,000 patients at 650 U.S. hospitals found that 55 percent of patients who underwent an invasive angiogram had nonobstructive coronary artery disease, meaning there were no significant blockages requiring intervention.

“HeartFlow 3D analysis aims to decrease unnecessary invasive diagnostic angiograms so other forms of treatment in patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease can be expedited and the inherent risks associated with conventional angiography may be avoided,” said Dr. Longo.

To learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland.

Newborns receive special welcome during Children’s Book Week

It’s a labor of love! Hope For Three Autism Advocates, a local nonprofit, is holding their annual luncheon slated for Valentine’s Day, February 14th at Safari Texas Ranch, 11:00am – 1:00pm.

“For the Kids We Love,” luncheon, presented by Mary and Tom Solcher and guest speaker, Grant Maniér, encourages support in raising awareness, acceptance and inclusion for local families and children living with autism spectrum disorder.

Today, the CDC reports, “1 in 59 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.” However, a recent study indicated the tally may now be as low as 1 in 40 children.

Autism is more common than Aids, cancer and diabetes, combined. A child is diagnosed every 11 minutes. The annual cost of care for one child with autism is estimated to extend up to $60,000.

Luncheon sponsors and supporters THINK Neurology for Kids, H.E.B., TOC, Behavioral Innovations Sugar Land, OCuSOFT, Inc and Safari Texas, believe when you give, and live for something greater, the gratification becomes a labor of love. Funds raised from the mid-day affair provide children on the spectrum access to much-needed therapies and treatments. Individual tickets ($50), table ($500) sponsorships available. To give a gift of hope or serve as a sponsor, visit hopeforthree.org or call 281-245-0640. It’s For the Kids We Love!

Above, Presenting Sponsors Mary and Tom Solcher enjoying pre-Valentine’s baking fun with the Montgomery Triplets (Lauren, Londyn and Lakin), the inspiration of Hope For Three.

Saturday, Jan 26th, 3:00 PM Sugar Land Town Square 2711 Plaza Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77479

Shyama Popuri Email: sspopuri1@hotmail.com Phone # 832 520 5204 Jaydeep Chaudhary Email: jdbasna@yahoo.com Phone # 334 332 5706

This event has been moved from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM due to cold weather

In celebration of Children’s Book Week, January 28-February 1, Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) will continue its annual tradition of welcoming newborns to the wonders of books.

Every Fort Bend County baby born during this week may receive a special baby book bag, courtesy of the Friends of Fort Bend County Library.

Each bag contains a book, a bib, a special certificate, a list of suggested reading for children, and information on parenting and on library services.

These bags represent the library system’s commitment to providing library services for county residents throughout their lives, beginning at birth.

“We hope to start every child born in hospitals in Fort Bend County on a successful road to life-long learning,” Former library staff member Jamie McKenna shows some of says Susan King, Coordinator the items in the Baby Book Bags of Youth Services for FBCL. Parents may introduce in“We distribute the baby a wonderful opportunity for book bags to babies born dur- bonding between parent and fants to the library by bringing ing that week at area Fort Bend child, it has also been shown to them to Mother Goose Time, a free weekly parent/infant County hospitals, but ALL Fort stimulate brain development.

Even the youngest baby can activity program that takes Bend County babies who are born during Children’s Book benefit from the chance to de- place at many of the branches Week are eligible to receive velop eye focus by looking at in the Fort Bend County lithe page of a book, while be- brary system. As the children one, while supplies last.”

Families of Fort Bend ba- ing comforted by the familiar mature, other programs with bies born at other locations voice of a parent. Reading age-appropriate activities are during Children’s Book Week aloud to children exposes them designed to interest older chilshould call the Youth Services to the sounds and cadences of dren. For more information, department, at 281-633-4762, a human voice, resulting in an call the library system’s Comearlier and stronger grasp of munications Office at 281to receive their book bag.

633-4734.

Not only is reading to a child vocabulary skills.

Reading winter challenge The popularity of Fort Bend County Libraries’ Summer Reading Clubs for children, teens, and adults inspired the library system to add a similar program for families during the winter season. The Family Reading Winter Challenge will begin on Monday, January 28, and will continue for five weeks through March 2, at all branches in the Fort Bend County library system.

This five-week program is designed to encourage families to read, learn, and have fun together. Families participate in the program by reading books, logging the number of minutes they read, and earning virtual badges. All Fort Bend County families are eligible to participate.

“The best way to help children learn new words and to build a larger vocabulary is to talk and

read with them,” says Susan King, Coordinator of Youth Services for the library system. “Children hear more new words when you read books to them.”

Families that complete the program, by reading for five hours collectively (300 minutes total per family) over the course of the challenge period, are eligible to receive a book bag for the family, and will have their name entered into a drawing for a $50 dining gift card, donated by the Friends of the Library. The drawing for the gift card will take place on March 4, and one winning family will be selected from each branch library.

A single registration is required for each participating family.

Upon registering, families will then have their own online page on which to record their reading time.

An adult (parent or guardian) is asked to register the family online by going to the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us) and clicking on the “Family Reading Winter Challenge” image, which will become available January 28.

Families may also register and log reading time by downloading the free Beanstack Tracker app to their mobile device from the Apple App or Google Play stores. Fort Bend County Libraries and the Family Reading Winter Challenge will appear as options when the program starts on January 28.

Registration may also be done by visiting the Youth Services desk at any of the libraries in the Fort Bend County library system.

There is no charge to join the Family Reading Winter Challenge. For more information, call 281-633-4734.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019 • Page 3

FBISD drops plan to change high school re-zoning Fort Bend ISD has decided not to change the high school boundaries as was proposed, but will proceed with the recommended attendance zoning for the new Malala Yousafzai Elementary.

FBISD superintendent Charles Dupre on Jan. 18 in an update on boundary planning on the FBISD website, said, “the administration has decided to withdraw our recommendation to make any changes to high school attendance boundaries in the southeast portion of the District.”

“On Tuesday, (Jan. 22) we will ask that the Board of Trustees approve the recommended attendance boundaries for Malala Yousafzai Elementary, and we will also present a comprehensive plan related to high schools in the southeast portion of the District that will keep all current attendance boundaries in place for at least the next two school years, while we expedite our plans for the construction of a new high school.

“As you are aware, High School 12 was included in the 2018 bond, and through the recent community engagement efforts, it became clear that the community’s desire was to make minimal changes in the short term,

prior to the construction of the new school.

“Our decision to withdraw our recommendation for high school attendance boundary changes at this time is based on several factors, including the identification of a site for building High School 12 and the Board’s desire to take immediate action to secure the site. This provides a more clear path forward and will enable the drawing of boundaries for the new high school and minimize the disruption to students of rezoning to balance enrollment and rezoning again to open High School 12. Our decision was also informed by the Board’s discussion at Monday’s Board Workshop, where they expressed concerns about how frequent rezoning affects our students and communities and the need to provide more long-term solutions for high school programming and building utilization.

“During Tuesday’s Board meeting, we will ask the Board for authorization to negotiate the purchase of an 80 acre-tract of land, and will share more about how we are aggressively pursuing options that could lead to an earlier opening of HS 12, in the 2022-23 school year, instead of the 2024-25 school year.

While we will not recommend

NEWS

any action to change high school attendance boundaries at this time, the board will have the authority to discuss and possibly take action on changes, should they see fit.

“More information about these plans will be shared with the Board on Tuesday night, and, at the same time, we will also share a thorough overview of our plans to expand programming at Marshall High School and Willowridge High School, as set forth in the 2018 Facilities Master Plan. We have heard concerns regarding the longterm investments in these schools to assure improved student achievement and increased building utilization, and I can see where we have fallen short in effectively engaging these communities in the planning efforts thus far. While we are asking for the approval of Early College and P-TECH programs at WHS, MHS and HHS, we will continue to work with our school communities to determine what other programming options could benefit our students.”

County judge asks school board to fill vacancy

By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County Judge KP George has written to Fort Bend ISD board members to immediately take action to fill the vacancy caused by his election as county judge.

The position 5 trustee seat held by George fell vacant on Jan. 1 with George taking his new office of county judge.

The board could have decided to appoint someone to the position for the remaining term or could have called for election in May, along with two other positions on the ballot.

The board has not initiated any action so far.

George expressed his concern over the delay in an open letter sent to the board.

“In my role as a trustee for five years, I fought to support the 76,000 children in our district and represent the community to the best of my ability.

“On January 1, I was sworn in as the top elected official in Fort Bend County serving as the County Judge of the 10th largest County in the State of

Texas protecting the wellbeing of over 800,000 residents.

“No matter the role, it is critical we take care of our community and do our due diligence in making sure each and every citizen has representation in their Government.

“It has recently come to my attention that Fort Bend ISO Board of Trustees Position 5, the seat I served on to represent the community, may remain vacant for months on end- diluting the strength of community input and representation.

“This board makes critical decisions on a weekly basis about the lives of our children.

“I encourage the Board to act accordingly in (1) filling my former seat instead of leaving a vacancy for months and (2) allowing the voters full say in May to elect their representative to this seat.

“As one of the most diverse school districts in the country, I hope the current Board members take the appropriate action in moving forward on this as soon as statutorily

possible.

“As background, this is a similar situation to when BOT member Rosenthal was elected to the Board in 2012 to serve on a one-year unexpired term for Position 7 when the previous member resigned. I encourage you to follow this precedent.

“As we celebrate the legacy of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. tomorrow, let’s recall that he said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

“Let’s affirm his teachings and make sure full justice and democracy follow through on the Position 5 seat.”

FBISD President Jason Burdine told this paper earlier that “The Board will be establishing a process for appointment that will include allowing community members to be considered for the position. The process is expected to take several months to complete. As the Board settles on a process, you can expect that information about the process will be posted on the District’s website.”

Central Fort Bend Chamber brings YP Summit

Wen Guerra seeks re-election to city council

Stafford City Councilman Wen Guerra said Monday he will run for Council member position No. 2.

He had previously said he would run for mayor. Guerra has now dropped the idea of running for mayor.

Another councilmember, A. J. Honore, has already announced his intention to challenge incumbent Mayor Leonard Scarcella.

Guerra has served on the City Council since he was elected to fill the unexpired term of the late Joe Scarpinato through a special election in May of 2002.

He served on the City’s Planning Commission prior to his election to City Council.

He served on the City’s Home Rule Charter Commission. He was the Mayor Pro Tem from May 2005 until May 2006.

Guerra is a member of the Fourth of July Committee and the Stafford Centre Committee. In 2012, he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Stafford Economic Development

Guerra Corporation. Council member Guerra is a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Fort Bend County Fair, and SMSD Booster Club.

Guerra is a building contractor.

The next general election for the City of Stafford will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The first day to file an application for a place on the ballot is January 16, 2019 and the filing deadline is February 15, 2019.

Sheriff’s Office, Securus Technologies, Aramark reach a first in the nation

Nehls The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is accomplishing a new goal by utilizing new technology in the county jail.

To accomplish this effort, the Sheriff’s Office is partnering with two companies -- Securus Technologies and Aramark. Aramark provides food services to the Sheriff’s Office.

Securus is unveiling new video visitation terminals and SecureView Inmate Self-

Help Tablets with Aramark’s Correctional Commissary Application.

Aramark’s Commissary ordering app is being integrated with Securus’ Visitation Terminals or SecureView Inmate Self-Help Tablets.

This is testament to both companies working toward a common goal.

“We have been a big proponent of using technology and customizable solutions in an effort to improve the culture and environment for which incarcerated individuals find themselves,” said Sheriff Troy Nehls.

“The safety and security of inmates and staff revolves around having a positive living and work environment.

When inmates feel they have nothing positive in their lives, bad things tend to happen.”

Inmates have the opportunity to utilize the tablets at a small cost. They

The Central Fort Bend Chamber and the Young Professionals Division are excited to bring a new workshop opportunity geared toward young professionals and students preparing to enter the workforce this year – HYPE Summit 2019.

The goal of the HYPE Summit is to provide individuals with information, education, inspiration and

can order food as well as read selected material to keep them busy.

“It not only makes it easier and safer to manage our inmate population, it allows us to create an environment that offers inmates access to phone calls via their tablets, At-Home video visits, e-messages and electronic requests with staff,” said Sheriff Nehls.

“Again, this is testimony that the Fort Bend County Detention Facility is one of the finest, efficient and professional facilities in the nation,” said Sheriff Nehls.

motivation to aid in “Helping Young Professionals Excel” (HYPE).

Workshops will be conducted by experts from Fort Bend County and beyond.

Speakers include Suzanne Buck (UH School of Communications) – Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication Skills; Tanaz Choudhury (TANCHES) – Tech Smart, Savvy & Secure; Tom Koppa (TGK Marketing) – Networking 101; Cindy Marion (MMI Agency) – Building Your “Brand”; Philip Murad (Primerica) – Financial Preparedness; Kevin Patton (State Farm) – The Mindset of a Leader; Rob Thompson (TruCore) – Team Building and Generational Differences; and Dustin Vacek (Re/Max Opportunities) – Tips for Firsttime Homebuyers.

The HYPE Summit 2019 will be held on February 28th, 8:00am – 2:30pm, at the Rosenberg Civic Center located at 3825 TX-36, Rosenberg, TX. General admission tickets

are $65.

Students (please bring student ID) and Central Fort Bend Chamber member tickets are $40.

Meals will be provided with special thanks to HCSS (Heavy Construction Systems Specialists) – HYPE Lunch Sponsor and University of Houston Sugar Land - HYPE Breakfast Sponsor.

This is a unique opportunity

for young (and young-atheart) professionals to learn valuable information and skills from industry experts as well as network with other area businesses.

Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Central Fort Bend Chamber located at 4120 Avenue H, Rosenberg, TX 77471 or online at www. cfbca.org.

Culinary Stars Suit Up for 3rd Annual Chef Fest March 10 Eleven local chefs will transform seasonal produce into a feast of freshness at the 3rd Annual Chef Fest, noon to 4 p.m, Sunday, March 10, at Harvest Green.

The celebration of local food and culinary expertise at the Harvest Green Village Farm, 8939 Harlem Road includes all food, craft cocktails, local wine and beer, live music and more. Tickets are $95 for adults, $30 for children ages 5 to 16 and free for ages 4 and under. A VIP experience is available for $130. A portion of the proceeds benefits I’ll Have What She’s Having.

Learn more at https://cheffesthouston.com

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019

MIKE’S MONOLOGUE

It could have been a dream

By MICHAEL GRANTO I thought I heard a man talking. He had a strong voice, what in the Marine Corps we would refer to as a “command voice.” I am not sure he is talking to me, or at least, not only to me, but he is describing something that is about to happen.

I cannot see very clearly, because there is a lot of fog or smoke screening the view, but occasionally, there is a break in the screen, and I can see what the voice describes, and it makes my blood run cold.

I am not sure where I am, but I am sure it is no place I have ever visited before. Wherever this is, the voice knows the place, and he knows the

Granto events about to occur. When he was through talking, I was surrounded by familiar things; my home, my chair, my desk.

For all I know, it could have been a dream.

But, this I what I heard the voice say: “You can see there is a long line of warriors to my front, many, many ranks deep. All of them are armed to the teeth,

INSURANCE Basics of auto insurance

By BASIL HOUSEWRIGHT Insurance - an agreement in which a person makes regular payments to a company and the company promises to pay money if the person is injured or dies, or to pay money equal to the value of something (such as a house or car) if it is damaged, lost, or stolen.

Think of your auto insurance policy as six separate policies.

Some types of coverage are required by state law, depending on where you live. Others are optional. Consider each one and ask yourself how much you need. Each type of coverage has its own premium. Add them up and you’ve got the price of your auto insurance policy. Subtract the ones you may not think you need and you gain some control over the cost.

1. Bodily injury liability (BI) coverage covers you if you cause an accident in which someone else is hurt or killed.

State laws differ as to how much you are required to carry. Many financial experts recommend carrying at least $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence - commonly expressed as “250/500.” Consider what assets you have to protect and what you can afford when deciding how much to purchase.

2. Property damage liability (PD) coverage covers you when you damage someone else’s property. Usually it’s someone else’s car, but it could apply to buildings, utility poles, garage doors, and other physical property. State laws determine the minimum you must purchase. Think about the cost of new cars, $100,000 PD minimum should be considered.

3. Collision coverage covers damage to your car if you run into another car, a brick wall, a fire hydrant, or other object.

This coverage is not required by law, though your bank may require it if you have an auto loan. You may choose a deductible on this coverage— what you must first pay out-ofpocket for a claim before the insurance kicks in.

4. Comprehensive coverage covers you in case your car is stolen or damaged in ways that don’t involve a collision.

Covered risks include hail, fire, theft, flood, earthquake, explosion, falling objects, and encounters with wildlife, such as deer. Comprehensive is optional coverage, though your bank may require it if you have an auto loan. You may choose a deductible on this coverage.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage covers medical and other expenses when you are hit by a driver without auto insurance or without adequate auto insurance. Whether this coverage is mandatory or optional depends on your state laws. You can purchase additional coverage to pay for damage to your car if hit by an uninsured motorist, but many people instead just

with their siege engines and archers drawn up behind them, in the far, far distance. They roar, the yell, they scream; they thirst for my blood, and I laugh in their faces.

“You see that directly in front of me are my troops, cohort upon cohort, drawn up in serried ranks as far to my left and my right as the eye can see. We also are armed to the teeth, with our own siege engines and archers drawn up behind us.

“Do you feel that wind?

There is a terrible storm brewing above, with claps of thunder fit to shake the foundations of the earth, and lightning bright enough to sear the eyes of those who gaze at it. Clouds, dark and lowering, have gathered, and their bellies are painted with lightning. Harsh winds blow; they ripple the pennons that fly from both my army and my enemy’s, but none of these atmospherics will delay even for a moment the battle that must

his description; it will be his epitaph, and my sword will carve it on his flesh.

“I am God’s general; the general of his armies, the admiral of his navies, his supreme military commander; and I am the penultimate power on this planet on this day. Every sword, every shield, every siege engine, every weapon of any kind is at my command.

My own sword and shield are the arm and armor of God himself, and there is nothing in this world or any other that can defeat them, and nothing, not even my brother’s best (or worst) can overcome me when I bear them.

“My name? My name is Michael. It is not a description, such as is my brother’s name.

It is a question.

“The question is ‘Who is like God?’ When you say my name, you are asking a question; you are asking, ‘Who is like God?’ and the answer is ‘No one!’

Not then, not now; not past, not present, not future; not this place, not anyplace.

“Before this battle is done,

now ensue, nor will they affect its outcome.

“This battle has been coming, has been foretold, has been prophesied, for millennia uncounted, and on these plains, on these surrounding hills, my enemy has at last chosen to stand and fight. To stand and fight here, at Tel Megiddo.

“My enemy is my brother, my long-ago brother, one who once had as much rank, stature, and power as I myself, but who chose to defy our Lord.

His hubris, his narcissism, his overweening pride and arrogance made him rebel, and he took one out of three of our brothers with him. They have ridden here with him, on the backs of his lies and his deceit, for he is truly “The Father of Lies.” They will surely die here with him.

“When they chose their side, they chose the consequences.

“My brother’s name is Lucifer, and his name is supposed to mean “light bearer,” but he has thrown in his lot with forces of darkness too deep to plumb.

His name was supposed to be

none but mine will still stand.

Not a single, solitary one of his minions will be breathing. My brother will breathe his last, and be cast forever into a place my Lord has made for him, his life riding out of his body on my blade.

“My Lord has loosed me. My mission is before me.

“Blessed be the name of the Lord!”

By the time he said this, his voice was like thunder. He put on his helmet, drew his sword, and marched off with his lieutenants to fill hell with his adversaries. The whole scene was terrifying.

But as I said, it could have been a dream. Or a nightmare.

(Granto is a United States Marine Corps veteran of Vietnam, awarded the Purple Heart. For over 24 years, he worked for the University of Miami Medical Campus Security Department, and retired in 2014. He moved to Missouri City, with his wife to be closer to her daughter. He can be reached at mikegranto@hotmail.com.)

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS FORT BEND COUNTY

Housewright purchase collision and comprehensive.

6.

Medical payments coverage (Med Pay or MP) acts as primary coverage for medical expenses you and your passengers incur if injured in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of fault. States have different laws regarding this coverage.

Your policy is a legal contract, so at first glance it can seem confusing. But, if you know what to look for and where to find it, your policy becomes a lot easier to understand. Each auto and homeowners insurance policy has three standard parts: Declarations Page. This is where you’ll find your name, a statement of the policy period during which you are covered and the amount of premium you pay. The “Dec” page also includes a description of the insurance coverage provided and gives the maximum dollar limit the insurer will pay for a claim under each coverage as described above.

Insuring Agreement. This is the main part of the policy.

It describes what the insurance company will do in exchange for the premium you’re paying.

The insuring agreement will also say who is covered: The persons named as insureds on the declarations page, resident relatives (family members) of the same household and persons using the car with the permission of the insured.

Everything is spelled out specifically in an attempt to avoid misunderstanding. Read the definitions section and the list of exclusions that apply to each coverage. It’s vital that you know what you are covered for and what you are not covered for when you need to use your coverage!

Conditions of the policy.

This last section describes your responsibilities when you have a claim, for example how much time you have to report it and what documentation you must give to the insurance company.

It also explains the terms for canceling your policy—both for you and the insurer. You can cancel your policy at any time; however your insurance provider may only cancel under certain conditions and with advance notice to you.

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on January 7, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in February, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

1

16-DCV230995 11/15/18

007600000057290 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. TREMONA L. SCALES, AKA TREMONA LATREES SCALES, ET AL

TR. 1: 0.2406 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, JOHN RANDON LEAGUE, ABST NO. 76* VOL 686, PG 56 & CLERK'S FILE# 2000014515 & 8768964*

$7,220.00

$5,300.00

2

16-DCV230995 11/15/18

007900000093490 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. TREMONA L. SCALES, AKA TREMONA LATREES SCALES, ET AL

TR. 2: 0.58 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, NOEL F. ROBERTS LEAGUE, ABST 79, VOL 686, PG 56, VOL 479, PG 253 & CLERK'S FILE# 8768964*

$16,700.00

$8,100.00

3

16-DCV234775 11/15/18

007600000015090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. MARY SOUTH 1/2 OF LT 4, CORNELIUS 1 RANDON ESTATE, VOL 179, PG LEWIS, ET AL 128A* DECEMBER 26, 2018

$174,320.00

$35,000.00

4

16-DCV236280 08/15/18

424801003002091 4 DECEMBER 26, 2018

LOTS 2 & 3, BLK 3, KELLIWOOD WILLOW FORK DRAINAGE GREENS, SEC 1, REC'D IN SLIDE# DISTRICT VS. SAVITRI CHATARPAL WASHINGTON, ET 1021/B* AL

$890,000.00

$91,900.00

5

17-DCV243581 08/23/18

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. DEBBIE RICHARDS (IN REM ONLY)

LOT 39, BLK 6, SOUTH MAIN PLAZA SUB'D, VOL 3, PG 22*

$29,930.00

$8,300.00

6

18-DCV252488 11/16/18

715000006390090 7 DECEMBER 26, 2018 586301006034090 7 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT # 26 VS. ROSE STOKES AKA ROSE MARIE STOKES AKA ROSE BROOKS STOKES

LOT 34, BLK 6, QUAIL GREEN WEST, SEC 1, VOL 22, PG 56*

$99,270.00

$7,500.00

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, January 7, 2019 Constable Wayne Thompson Fort Bend County, Texas By Deputy Notes:

Housewright is manager of Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc a local Independent Insurance Agency operating in Sugar Land since 1991. He can be reached at (281) 277-7800, Fax (281) 277-7801, E-Mail – basil@texansinsure.com. Visit https://www.texansinsure.com.

The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value.

However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019• Page 5

NEWS Property tax payment deadline - Jan. 31

Ambassador Theatre Group acquires Smart Financial Center Ambassador Theatre Group (Mark Cornell, CEO; Stephen Lewin, CEO, North America), the world’s number one livetheater company, is pleased to announce a major addition to its North American portfolio: the greater Houston area’s Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land (18111 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX).

Declared “Houston’s Hottest Music Venue” by Houston Press, Smart Financial Centre is currently ranked 6th in the world in ticket sales for venues under 10,000 seats as reported by the concert industry’s Pollstar Magazine. The venue is a state-of-the-art, indoor performance venue with flexible seating capacities.

“The acquisition of Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land expands ATG’s footprint in North America to ten venues, extending our presence in a key region for live entertainment. We are grateful for the leadership of Gary Becker who has led the venue to date and will remain as part of the team, and look forward to working with the City of Sugar Land. Our goal is to lead the industry with commercial-driven initiatives, and to deliver our signature world class customer service,” commented Stephen Lewin, Ambassador Theatre Group’s CEO, North America.

Kristin Caskey, Ambassador Theatre Group’s EVP of Content and Creative, North America, added, “ATG is committed to diverse programming that will further contribute to Sugar Land’s positioning as a cultural destination for artists and audiences alike. We will also continue in expanding partnerships with local organizations, businesses and serving the needs of the local community.”

“In just two years since its opening, Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land has changed the regional live entertainment landscape and defined its role in solidifying Sugar Land’s position as an economic powerhouse and destination location – one of the many examples of the City’s long history of partnering with industry leaders to strengthen our community for residents,

businesses and visitors,” said City Manager Allen Bogard.

“Knowing that Ambassador Theatre Group’s relationship to Sugar Land began even before our venue opened, we are looking forward to working with ATG to continue to grow and expand the success of this important venue.”

Taking over the helm as General Manager is 35 year industry veteran David Skinner, who spent the last 10 years of his career managing the Mahalia Jackson and Saenger Theatre in New Orleans. “David Skinner brings decades of experience to Smart Financial Centre, having managed major venues throughout the country including the Louisiana Superdome, OMNI Arena and many more.

We look forward to his leadership in propelling the venue to new heights and continuing to build Smart Financial Centre as one of the premier theaters in the United States,” said Stephen Lewin.

Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is a state-of-theart, indoor performance venue that is located off of U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard.

Designed for flexibility, the 200,000-square-foot, indoor climate-controlled venue incorporates innovative movable walls that can expand and contract to create four different seating capacities that range from an intimate setting of 1,900 seats to a maximum of 6,400, including: 14 luxury suites, corporate hospitality areas, and the latest sound, light and video technology.

Other offerings include space to house up to 14 trucks and buses, as well as 2,500 guest parking spaces.

Founded in 1992, Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) is the world’s number one live theater company with the vision of helping great shows to find the largest audiences.

ATG operates close to 50 venues in Britain, North America and Germany. It is an internationally recognized awardwinning theater producer with productions in the West End and on Broadway and touring productions in the U.K., North America, Europe, Aus-

Application window open for classes at James Reese Career and Technical Center The application to enroll in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes offered at the new James Reese Career and Technical Center for the 2019-20 school year is available online through Tuesday, February 5, at 3 p.m. The Reese Center opens in Fall 2019 and will offer various specialized courses to provide students with extensive hands-on-learning experiences in preparation for their post-secondary college and career goals.

The center will welcome FBISD sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Current seventh and eighth grade students may need to choose prerequisite courses at their home campus in order to be eligible to attend programs offered at the Reese Center their sophomore through senior year in high school.

Students may select courses in Hospitality and Tourism, Computer Technology, Cosmetology, Automotive, Culinary Arts, Welding, Fire Fighting, Health Science, Law Enforcement and Court Systems, Construction, Diesel Mechanics, Education and Training, Arts and A/V Production, Oil and Gas/Energy and Natural Resources.

Students are encouraged to apply to more than one program, as there is a limited number of seats available in each program area. To complete an application or learn more about the new center, visit the James Reese Career and Technical Center website.

tralia and Asia. ATG is also the market leader in theater ticketing services through ATG Tickets, LOVETheatre and Group Line.

ATG operates the newly refurbished Lyric Theatre, home to the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and the oldest theater on Broadway, the recently restored Hudson Theatre.

ATG owns and operates the Saenger and Mahalia Jackson theaters in New Orleans, the Majestic and Empire theaters in San Antonio, the magnificent Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, and the beautifully restored Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, which reopened in the summer of 2018 with the critically-acclaimed pre-Broadway World Premiere engagement of Moulin Rouge!

The Musical.

ATG recently secured a lease on the Curran Theatre in San Francisco, which will take effect in July 2019. The acclaimed Tony Award winner Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will commence performances later that year. ATG’s most recent producing credits in the U.S. include Dear Evan Hansen, Pretty Woman: The Musical, A Doll’s House Part 2, Sunday in the Park with George, and Lincoln Center Theater’s The King and I.

It comes around every year – January 31st – the last day to pay your property taxes without penalty and interest accruing on the unpaid balance.

Patsy Schultz, Fort Bend County Tax Assessor/Collector, is trying to help those residents who wait until the last moment.

First, you need to be aware that there will be a postage increase to 55ȼ on January 27, 2019. Be sure your envelope has sufficient postage.

Any payments which are postmarked after January 31, 2019 will be assessed penalty and interest.

If you mail your payment prior to January 31 and it is returned to you due to insufficient postage, the delay could cause your payment to be late.

Being unaware of the postage increase is not grounds for waiving the penalty and interest.

Additionally, Schultz is again offering a drive through

drop off option to pay your taxes.

On Thursday, January 31st, from 8:00 a.m until 4:30 p.m you can drive through the parking lot of the RICHMOND (1317 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond 77469) and SUGAR LAND (12550 Emily Ct, Sugar Land77478) locations and drop off your payment without even getting out of your vehicle!

These will be the only two Fort Bend County locations with a drive thru drop off line.

Staff will be standing by to accept your payment which must be in the form of check or money order. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED IN THE PAYMENT DROP OFF. Your payment should be in a sealed envelope with a return address clearly marked on the outside of the envelope. There will be cones and directional signs in place to aid in the flow of traffic. You will be given a card with the date and a se-

quence number on it as your “temporary” receipt.

Please allow 5 business days for all of the payments to be processed and then you can go online to print a receipt or call the Tax Office to have one mailed to you.

Finally, we encourage you to take advantage of our electronic check payment option.

You can go online to www. fortbendcountytx.gov and click on the “I Want to” tab at the top and then select “Pay Property Taxes” and follow the prompts to pay online with e-check.

There is no extra fee associated with e-check, your taxes will be paid as of the date you are making the transaction, and you will be able to print a receipt after making the transaction.

Please feel free to contact the Tax Office at 281-341-3710 if you have any questions regarding payment of your property taxes.

AAUW features Katharine Hayhoe, Director Texas Tech Climate Science Center AAUW meeting on Feb. 24 will focus on planet Earth and the environment.

Katharine Hayhoe, atmospheric scientist and professor of political science at Texas Tech University and director of the Climate Science Center will be the sepaker.. Through her TEDx Talk, Dr. Hayhoe says, “The most important thing you can do about climate change is talk about it.”

The talk will be followed by open discussion, so come for fellowship, information and discussion. Free & open to the public. The venue is Brazos Hall, Room 281, WCJC, Sugar Land .

The event is conducted by American Association of University Women Fort Bend Branch. For more info. e-mail fortbend-tx@aauw.net, website http://fortbend-tx.aauw.net/.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on January 3, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in February, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

783500009006290 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018 004900000014090 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. WILLIAM JACKSON (IN REM), ET AL

EAST 50 FT, LT 6, BLK 9, CITY OF ROSENBERG, VOL P, PG 146*

$8,330.00

$4,500.00

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. ROBERT THORNTON, ET AL (IN REM ONLY)

0.38 ACRES (16,640 SQ FT), MORE OR LESS, JOSEPH KUYKENDALL LEAGUE, ABST 49, VOL 329, PG 140*

$34,960.00

$10,000.00

$17,730.00

$3,700.00

$119,320.00

$7,700.00

1

16-DCV233257 08/22/18

2

16-DCV234767 10/17/18

3

17-DCV243513 10/17/18

001800000122090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 1 GEORGE SOLOMON DECEMBER 26, 2018

1.295 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, HORATIO CHRIESMAN LEAGUE, ABST18, TRACT# 12, VOL 1088, PG 248*

4

17-DCV243567 11/15/18

002500000736290 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 7 ALEJANDRO PORTALES, ET AL DECEMBER 26, 2018

TRACT 114, ONE OAK CHASE SUB'D, ABST 25, CLERK'S FILE# 2015042825*

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, January 3, 2019 Constable Mike Beard Fort Bend County, Texas

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

By

12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

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

Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas.

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

Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value.

However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019 • Page 6 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Camellia, Section 2, Precinct 3.

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

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Lakeview Retreat Section 1, Precinct 2.

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

Submitted by,

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Westmoor Drive at Abermore Lane in Aliana, Precinct 4.

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

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Williams Ranch, Section 1, Precinct 1.

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

Submitted by,

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk City of Missouri City ORDINANCE NO. O-19-01

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS, AMENDING USES AND REGULATIONS IN PD PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 81; DESCRIBING SAID 38.51-ACRE TRACT OF LAND; REGULATING AND RESTRICTING THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF PROPERTY WITHIN SUCH PD PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT; AMENDING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT. I, Maria Jackson, City Secretary of the City of Missouri City, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the caption of said Ordinance No. O-19-01 approved on second and final reading by the City Council at its regular meeting held on January 7, 2019, as the same appears in the records of my office. /s/ Maria Jackson City Secretary CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 400TH District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on Dec 3, 2018 in cause numbered 17-DCV-244555 styled Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc.. vs. SYED H.R. ZAIDI., in which a judgment was rendered on FEB 8, 2018 in favor of Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc. for the sum of Four thousand Three Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Twelve Cents ($4314.12); plus fees for posting notice of sale, publishing, costs of suit rendered by the court, legal fees, and all costs of executing this Writ.

I have levied upon the below listed property on Dec 19, 2018 and will on Feb 5, 2019 Tuesday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the Right, Title, and Interest of SYED H. R. ZAIDI to and in the following described Real Property LOT SEVENTY-ONE (71), IN BLOCK ONE(1) SUMMERFIELD,SECTION SIX(6), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS,ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO(S).1753/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS,MORE COMMONLY DESCRIBED AS 17131 FAIRWAYGLEN COURT. SUGAR LAND, TX 77498. The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc. Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG., 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING ROOM, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE By virtue of an Order of Sale dated Nov 29, 2018, delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the 400th District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of THE COMMONWEALTH CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC., plaintiff, and against Nick R. Demeris and Helen M. Demeris, defendant, in Cause No. 18-DCV-248781, for the sum of TEN-THOUSAND-–ONE-HUNDREDNINETY-ONE DOLLARS AND 96/100’s CENTS ($10191.96), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale. I did on the 17TH day of DEC, 2018, at 11:00 AM, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of.

HELEN M. DEMERIS, defendant(s), to-wit: LOT 14, IN BLOCK 1 , OF COMMONWEALTH ESTATES SECTION TWO (2), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NOS. 1173/B AND 1174/A,MAP AND OR PLAT RECORDS OF OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4518 ST MICHAELS CT SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 and on FEB 5, 2019, 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 301 JACKSON ST, FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG RICHMOND TX. I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of HELEN M. DEMERIS, defendant, in and to said property.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG., 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING RM, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION To: MELVIN VIGO RIVERA 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 February 04, 2019 a default judgment may be taken against you.

The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 17DCV-247447 and is styled: Dwayne J. Briscoe vs. Melvin Vigo Rivera The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: CALEB D VILLARREAL CORDOBA LAW FIRM PLLC 85 OAK DRIVE SUITE 102 LAKE JACKSON TX 77566 979-297-2854 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: WHEREFORE, MR. BRISCOE REQUESTS THAT DEFENDANT BE CITED TO APPEAR AND ANSWER AND THAT ON HEARING THE COURT ENTER JUDGMENT: 1. DETERMINING THE SHARE OF EACH JOINT OWNER OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN. 2. MR. BRISCOE SEEKS A DETERMINATION THAT SUCH PROPERTY AND THE SALE PROCEEDS THEREFROM BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE PARTIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR RESPECTIVE INTERESTS IN THE PROPERTY AND RETAINING SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO PAY ANY TAXES OR FEES. 3. APPOINTING A RECEIVER TO SELL THE PROPERTY AT A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SALE, FOR CASH, SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION BY THIS COURT UPON SWORN REPORT OF SUCH SALE. 4. ORDERING DEFENDANT TO REIMBURSE MR. BRISCOE FOR ONE-HALF (1/2) OF THE EXPENSES RELATED TO THE PROPERTY FROM JULY 2014, UNTIL DATE OF JUDGMENT TO MR. BRISCOE. 5. AWARDING MR. BRISCOE RECOVERY OF COSTS, FEES, INTEREST AND SUCH OTHER RELIEF TO WHICH MR. BRISCOE MAY BE JUSTLY ENTITLED. If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 21st day of December, 2018.

ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, DISTRICT CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Physical Address: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 31004 Richmond, Texas 77469 Mailing Address: 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 BY: Deputy District Clerk Salena M. Jasso Phone: 281-341-3787

AUTOMOBILE: Camry Hybrid

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The excitement over the eighth-generation sedan is the result of its complete evolution, from a proven, dependable and safe car to one that adds a more exciting character and is long on performance and style.

The new Camry also got a new engine, transmission and platform. Its three primary NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 240TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on JANUARY 2, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, FORT BEND COUNTY vs.

ALONZO JOHNICAN, JR., ET AL in Cause# 14-DCV-217725 and to me as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 5th day of February, 2018, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 774693108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: R388123/ 0085-11-0013200-903. An undivided 16.67 percent interest in and to a tract or parcel containing an aggregate of 29.71 acres, more or less, located in the Shelby, Frazier and McCormick League, Abstract 85 in Fort Bend County, Texas; and consisting of the following portions. A) a tract or parcel containing 14.56 acres, more or less, described in a deed recorded in Volume 198, Page 622 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas and shown as Tract 5 on the plat of the Subdivision of the Nellie Johnson Estate 180 acres recorded in Volume 4, Page 11 of the Plat Records of Fort Bend County, Texas; B) a tract or parcel containing 15.15 acres, more or less, described in a deed recorded in Volume 340, Page 214 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas and shown as Tract 5 on the plat of the Subdivision of the Nellie Johnson Estate 90 acres on the plat recorded in Volume 339, Page 556 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas.

Levied on January 3, 2019 as the property ALONZO JOHNICAN JR.; JOYCENETT JOHNICAN AKA JOYCENETI SNELL JOHNICAN; RENATA M. PAYNE AKA RENATA PAYNE KHAWAJA to satisfy a judgment amounting to $7,845.22, representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of BRAZOS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on January 3, 2019.

Mike Beard CONSTABLE FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By John Morales Deputy

design goals were distinction, low center of gravity that results in a wide stance; a practical and beautiful styled cabin profile, and a sporty and upscale image inside and out.

The 2018 Camry has a sleeker profile, lost some weight and added one inch in height to give it a lower roofline. The Camry provides an extremely comfortable and stable ride while being ice cream smooth and quiet.

The new Camry features Toyota’s latest in-vehicle information technology that relays information through either a 10-inch color head-up display; a seven-inch multiinformation display within the instrument cluster, and an

eight-inch audio/navigation/ HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) control panel.

Along with the new platform there is a new 2.5-liter fourcylinder engine, a new eightspeed automatic transmission and a new double wishbone rear suspension design. Three new powertrains available on the new 2018 Camry are the all-new 2.5-liter inline-fourcylinder gasoline engine and a new 3.5-liter V6 with fuel injection. Both are paired to a new eight-speed direct-shift automatic transmission; and a next-generation Toyota hybrid system.

Peak horsepower for the

NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 268TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on JANUARY 2, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of CITY OF NEEDVILLE, ET AL VS. RAYMOND GEORGE ZUREK, JR., ET AL in Cause# 17-DCV-238571 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 5th day of February, 2018, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 77469-3108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT I: GEO: 1540000010010906 LOT(S) ONE (I), IN BLOCK ONE (1), OF THE BERNSHAUSEN SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION COMPRISED OF 4.49 ACRES, OUT OF THE H. & T. C. R. R. SURVEY NO. 26, ABSTRACT NO. 756, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on January 3, 2019 as the property of RAYMOND GEORGE ZUREK JR., KAREN SUE ZUREK to satisfy a judgment amounting to $12,094.60, representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of NEEDVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT; CITY OF NEEDVILLE; FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT; FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND WHARTON COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE.

PUBLIC ONLINE AUCTION

Given under my hand on January 3, 2019.

Fort Bend County Mike Beard CONSTABLE FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By John Morales Deputy

City of Missouri City NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LOCATION/DATE: The Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Missouri City will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, February 13, 2019, at the City Council Chambers – 2nd Floor, City Hall Building, 1522 Texas Parkway (FM-2234), Missouri City, Texas at 7:00 p.m.

PURPOSE: To receive comments for or against a replat of Reserve “D”, Mustang Trails Section 1B being the final plat of Mustang Trails Section 3.

SITE LOCATION: The proposed Mustang Trails subdivision is located south and west of the intersection of Texas Parkway and Cartwright Road, north of the Thunderbird North residential subdivision and east of The Woods residential subdivision.

SITE LEGAL DESCRIPTION: The subject site is described as being Reserve “D”, as shown on Mustang Trails Section 1B, a subdivision of record under instrument number 20180287 of the Fort Bend County Official Public Records.

TEXAS LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE: § 212.015.(c) If the proposed replat requires a variance and is protested in accordance with this subsection, the proposed replat must receive, in order to be approved, the affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of the members present of the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both. For a legal protest, written instruments signed by the owners of at least 20 percent of the area of the lots or land immediately adjoining the area covered by the proposed replat and extending 200 feet from that area, but within the original subdivision, must be filed with the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both, prior to the close of the public hearing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Additional information and a map of the subject site are available for review at City Hall, Missouri City, Texas on Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You may call 281-403-8600 or email the Development Services Department-Planning Division at planning@missouricitytx.gov for further information.

Department-Planning Division at planning@missouricitytx.gov for further information.

Foodarama

Mustang Trails The Woods

Mustang Trails Section 1B, Reserve D

FORT BEND COUNTY 9110 Long Street, Needville, TX. PREVIEW: Fri., 1/25/19 AUCTION ENDS: Thurs., 1/31/19 FEATURED ITEMS 2011 Chev. 3500 HD Dually Pickup, Computer Equip., Visitation Equip., Dash Cams & Police Equip., Office Furniture, Comm. Vehicle Vacuums, Vehicle Seats, Microwave Ovens, Stretcher, & More Website for Photos & Information www.fortbendauction.com www.onlinepros.com #7341 (800)243-1113 OR (281)357-4977

PUBLIC ONLINE AUCTION

FORT BEND COUNTY TRANSIT BUSES 9110 Long Street, Needville, TX. PREVIEW: Fri., 1/25/19 AUCTION ENDS: Thurs., 1/31/19 FEATURED BUSES (8) 2013 – 2011 Chev. Goshen Coach & Champion/Diesel/ Transit Buses Website for Photos & Information www.fortbendauction.com www.onlinepros.com #7341 (800)243-1113 OR (281)357-4977

hybrid is 176 horsepower at 5,700 rpm with torque estimated at 163 lb.-ft. at 3,600 to 5,700 rpm. Fuel is 87 or higher and miles per gallon are EPA estimated at 44 in city driving and 47 on the highway.

The 24-valve DOHC 3.5-liter V-6 engine has power output rated at 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and a torque rating of 267 ft.-lb. at 4,700 rpm.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine gets an EPA-estimated rating of 22 mpg city/33 mpg highway/26 mpg combined.

Camry’s new hybrid provides a spirited drive that mimics a quick-shifting sixspeed automatic transmission via paddle shifters or with the console-mounted shift lever.

The Camry hybrid is in three grades – LE, SE, and XLE. The LE gets the most mpg at 51 in city driving and 53 on freeways and highways.

Trunk room has been improved and the hybrid system’s battery pack is now in the trunk under the rear seat.

And a safety suite bundles the pre-collision system with numerous safety features.

They are pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist; and automatic high beams. Select models will also come with standard blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert.

All 2018 Camrys come with enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, anti-lock braking and a standard backup camera. For enhanced connectivity and entertainment there is a new Toyota Entune 3.0 multimedia system that features navigation and Entune 3.0 App suite.

All Camry four-cylinder and hybrid models come standard with a GPS Link with moving maps. The new Camry also offers an available JBL premium audio system.

The Camry hybrid performs extremely well, gets enormous gas mileage, rides like it’s on a cloud and now has the style that goes with the vehicle. I urge all who are considering buying a spacious, quick, good looking sedan to take a test drive in Toyota’s new Camry. It is one honey of a car. The MSRP for the Camry hybrid ranges from $27,800 for the LE to $32,725 for the XLE. Notice of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, will conduct a hearing at its regular meeting on February 12, 2019, at 1:00 p.m., at the Commissioners Courtroom, 2nd floor, 401 Jackson St., Richmond, Texas, for the purpose of establishing a license for a junkyard and salvage yard within Fort Bend County. Jesse Auto Salvage, the license holder, will be located at 16337 W. Bellfort Blvd. in Sugarland, Texas applied to follow all provisions of the codes and ordinances of Fort Bend County relating to junkyards and automotive wrecking yards and shall be subject to all provisions of the county codes and statutes of the State of Texas. All interested persons are invited to attend this meeting and offer any comments on the designation of this zone. All comments will be considered by the Commissioners Court.

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2, Attention: Mr. Andre D. McDonald, President, Board of Directors, will be received at the office of LJA Engineering, Inc., 2929 Briarpark Drive, Suite 150, Houston, Texas 77042, until 10:00 a.m., Local Time, Wednesday, February 6, 2019, and then publicly opened and read for “Camera and Stream Gauge Electrical Improvements for Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2, Fort Bend County, Texas” Scope of Work of the Contract includes the following: Installation of electrical components, including but not limited to conduits, cables, wires, poles, and other equipment, for the future installation of cameras and stream gauges at various sites across the district. The cameras will be installed by others upon completion of project.

Bids received after the closing time will be returned unopened. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be held on Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. Local Time, at the office of LJA Engineering, Inc. 2929 Briarpark Drive, Suite 150, Houston, Texas 77042.

Each Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond or a certified or cashier’s check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount Bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided, and provide the required insurance certificates within seven (7) days after the date Contract Documents are received by the Contractor.

Bidding documents may be examined at LJA Engineering, Inc., AGC of Texas, Construct Connect, and Amtek or may be obtained by prospective bidders or suppliers upon payment of Fifty Dollars ($50.00 non-refundable plus cost of delivery) ($25.00 for electronic copy) for each set of documents at LJA Engineering, Inc., 2929 Briarpark Drive, Suite 150, Houston, Texas 77042.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project.

Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019 • Page 7

NEWS

Local producer, actors play part in The Challenger Disaster

Sugar Land resident Erika Waldorf is an actress and producer of the film The Challenger Disaster. She is also known for Friday Night Lights (2006) and Zombiefied (2012).

Local Houston area actors also played a part in the film: Kelley Talasek, Terrence Dearman, Joe Grisaffi, Erika Waldorf, Jason Sweatt, John Goad, and Scott Petty.

The Challenger Disaster also stars: Eric Hanson as Adam, the hot-headed engineer; Glenn Morshower as Finch Richards, the head of a consulting law firm; and Cameron Arnett as Bill, Adam’s fellow engineer.

The Challenger Disaster will premiere in two Texas theaters — Tues., Jan. 22 in Houston at the Regal Grand Parkway 22

(Richmond), and Thurs., Jan. 24 in Dallas at the Angelika Film Center and Cafe.

The Challenger Disaster is Nathan VonMinden’s second film. His first film, Uganda Man (2011), was made for less than $5,000 and earned over $200,000 for producer Attack Poverty. Over his 14year career, VonMinden has also directed hundreds of short films of all genres and types.

Domestically distributed

by Vertical Entertainment and internationally distributed by High Octane Pictures, The Challenger Disaster is produced by Erika Waldorf, K.B. Battaglini, Jose Quinones, Glenn Gordon, and Meleice VonMinden.

The Challenger Disaster

is the real story of a man who tried to stop the launch. When the long-delayed tenth flight of Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds into its flight on Jan. 28, 1986, all seven crew members were killed.

One engineer in Utah desperately wanted to save the lives of these seven national heroes. He failed. See his story on the big screen this month.

As the 33rd anniversary of the disaster approaches, a new film, The Challenger Disaster, premieres, based on the true story of that engineer and his colleagues in an intense race against the clock the night before the Challenger’s final launch. All characters in the film have been fictionalized, including names, but the story is based on the true story — the engineer was convinced the O-ring seals would fail and endanger everyone on board. His desperate race against the clock to call off the billion dollar Challenger launch hasn’t been explored in film until now.

Dean Cain, a veteran of the screen with too many roles to list, but possibly most remembered as Superman from his 90s series, plays Larry Arnold, the attorney representing the engineers in the aftermath of the disaster.

“I play a lawyer who tries to keep things ‘under wraps.’ I encourage the brave ‘whistleblowers’ to keep their concerns quiet for the sake of the Space Program,” Cain says.

“Not the most ethical guy on the planet, but he’s fighting to keep the Space Program going, and to him, it’s worth covering up the nasty details for the ‘greater good.’

“He’s also doing his best to represent his client, regardless of the moral questions involved.”

Pollard elected President of Fort Bend County Fair

Marjorie Pollard has been elected President of the Fort Bend County Fair Association.

Pollard is carrying on a family tradition with her service to the fair, and now her grandchildren represent the fifth generation of her family’s involvement.

Marjorie is a former livestock exhibitor and recalls the fair being held on the original fairgrounds.

“I started showing cattle in the old fair barn on the original fairgrounds on highway 90.

We showed Charolais cattle in the open show; I must have been about 9 or 10 years old.

My momma had us wash the cattle, feed them, and get them ready for the show. Those are some of my early memories,” said Pollard.

Pollard remembers the early

Pollard arts and crafts exhibits her mother, the late Helen Ann Booth and her aunts, all were involved with in the Women’s Department.

“As a kid, I remember going up the stairs to the Women’s

Department, at that time only women would have entries of homemade goods; like kolaches, canned goods, vegetables, crocheted items, and quilts.

They would be displayed on the huge wooden cases. I grew up all over those fairgrounds.”

Pollard is honored to serve as President and looks forward to a great year, “For decades I have personally been coming to this fair, and now to be President, it is an honor for my family and me,” shares the 2019 President.

Pollard has been involved with several committees including Cowboy Camp, Fair Queens, Entertainment, Adult Creative Arts, and Reception committees.

She has participated in the parade, livestock shows, and

Nathan VonMinden, the film’s screenwriter and director, who has a degree in Aerospace Engineering, researched the story for eight years. His screenplay is based primarily on information found in public records, in the Report of the Presidential Commission on the Space Shuttle Challenger Accident. Linear and fast-paced, The Challenger Disaster is a behind-the-scenes story of a defining American moment that marks time for anyone who lived through it.

“I really appreciated Dean’s intensity on set. He really makes you want to get up and go. As a director, some days you have to fire everyone up to get the team rolling in a direction together, but when Dean is on set, it’s like a shot of adrenaline,” VonMinden says.

“When his character has to crank things up, it’s electric. We do a shot with Dean where it’s one long take, and I remember the discussion of whether or not we should cut. When you see a performance like that, you don’t dare cut away. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”

“The Challenger Disaster is a thoughtful, compelling film which goes behind the tragic headlines to explore the people and the catastrophic and devastating decisions that led to that dreadful day in our nation’s history,” Cain continues. “I’m happy to be involved in such a monumental film about a real, historical event that I witnessed as a young man.”

Football legend, Les Miles, plays Kennedy Space Center employee Nelson in the film.

Miles is well-known for his 25 years of coaching head football, most notably as the head coach at LSU from 2005-2016, guiding them to two SEC titles and the 2007 BCS National Championship.

Sugar Land resident Erika Waldorf, producer, also acts in the film The Challenger Disaster.

“I knew Les as a man of for work in film, media, and strong leadership and high the web. Every program in the intellect, so when we thought country should be creating and of the roles in those terms, he negotiating exactly these kinds was easy to cast in the film. of opportunities for dreamers He brings a part of himself to become practitioners.”

GrothOlson and his students to a role that is critical to the film,” VonMinden continues. were an integral part of film“His performance was strong ing The Challenger Disaster. and intense, and having him on GrothOlson continues, “The set was a treat. I learned a lot Challenger Disaster is not only from him about leadership and a fantastic story about courwe talked a lot about family age in the face of tremendous in the down times. I hope Les pressure, it is also a textbook gets many more opportunities example of what independent filmmakers are capable of. between championships.”

Houston Baptist Univer- This producing crew made sity’s professor Jesse GrothOl- every right step and exactly son, “was able to bring students the right time. Being a part of from my current job as a pro- this local production rivaled fessor of Cinema & New Me- any that I had ever been a part dia Arts and Houston Baptist of in Hollywood. I appreciUniversity. These 7 students ated the ability to participate got their first real-life experi- in a creative role, a production ence, and they all found where role, and a talent role all on they had a fit. Many have the same film. I am grateful gone on after this particular for this opportunity, and I production and continued to am extremely hopeful for the work locally and build their potential that the success of a credits while they are still in production like this can bring school. Our goal is to build a to independent producers here program that provides a chal- in Texas and everywhere this lenging creative environment kind of technology, skill, and for students to develop their passion coalesce.” artistic abilities and prepare

has been a buyer or bidder at several auctions.

From checking in exhibits to set up, Pollard has been involved or behind the scenes to get things done.

“Being involved with the fair means being there for our kids, the youth of this county.

It is all about the kids,” says the mother of three adult children and grandmother to 9 grandkids. Her children and grandchildren have been livestock show exhibitors.

Pollard became a board member in 2004.

“Before I became a director, I helped start Cowboy Camp.

We would feed the cowboys and the rodeo personnel of both the youth rodeo and the PRCA rodeo. We served up chicken and dumplings, brisket, and

stew. So now as a director, I am still helping to serve hot meals for the entertainers and their bands, and working with wonderful caterers for many of our Fair receptions.”

2018 President, James Duke, welcomed Pollard officially to the position after his smooth and successful year.

“I am thrilled to be able to support our kids, give our community a fair to enjoy, as I did, and as my family did, growing up. It is a tradition for me to come to the fair and I can only hope to help inspire other families to do the same. Whether it is the livestock shows, the fair food, the rodeo action, or the carnival rides I want our fair to be a place where all families can enjoy,” said Pollard.

Pollard’s grandfather was

involved in the founding years of the fair, and her uncle served on the board in the ‘70s.

Pollard and her husband Charles reside in Richmond, and she is a proud alumnus of Lamar High School of Lamar CISD. Her love for country music, western lifestyle and her deep family-fair roots, have given her a lifetime of grooming for the role of Fair President.

She has served on several boards and as a volunteer with Lamar Educational Awards Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and supports numerous charities and organizations throughout our community.

The Fort Bend County Fair is set for September 27 to October 6, 2019.

Katy Heritage Society inducts new board of directors

New Board of Directors. Left to right:Ronald Scott, Treasurer; Marilyn Frishman, Vice President; Bethany Cobb, Director; Rosanne Lopez, President; Adrienne Davitz, Director; Pam Beckendorff, Director; Pat Williamson,Secretary; Kay Conner, Director; and Rory Robertson, Director.

Directors not pictured: Carol Adams, Lynn Freeman, Benjamin Frishman, Julie Prince, Muriel Esposito, Jeanette Pratt, Kayse Johnson , and Linda Mikeska.

Fort Bend County Grand Champion Charolais Bull exhibited by Marjorie Pollard –70s .

The Katy Heritage Society held its first meeting of the year on Jan.17 An amazingly large crowd attended, filling the Stockdick House, including City Council members, Chris Harris and Janet Corte.

President Roseanne Lopez outlined her goals for the year, recognized outgoing President Carol Adams and Vern Roberts, for their service, and appointed Committees Chairs and Committees for the operation of

the Houses, Depot and special projects.

Julie Prince, Co-Chair of the Docents (with Jeanette Pratt), presented the need and training for Docents.

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 23, 2019

NEWS

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce ushers in the New Year with exceptional leadership

Fort Bend Chamber’s 2019 Board of Directors and Division Chairs attending the Board Retreat on Jan. 10 at Sawmill Lake at Sienna. Photo credit to Myke Toman.

The January Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Board Retreat was led by new Chairman Rehan Alimohammad, a partner with law firm Wong Fleming.

The retreat was hosted by Johnson Development at the spacious Sawmill Lake Club where the executive board, current members and staff welcomed the following new board members: Juan Alexander, Director - Si Environmental Noe Escobar, Vice President - LJA Jonathan Howard, Senior Project Manager - BGE Kevin Riles, President Kevin Riles Real Estate Darrell Roth, Managing Partner - Roth Management Group Afshi Merchant, President – Oil Products Distribution

Allisandra Wen - Safari Texas Ranch The executive committee mirrors the entire board of directors and is comprised of business leaders representing an impressive roster of companies from across the county.

Keri Schmidt is President and CEO, Immediate Past Chair is Malisha Patel, CEO Memorial Hermann, Chairelect is Jonathan Pursch, Vice President Frost Bank, and Keith Borgfeldt, President/Founder Spartan Wealth Management is Secretary/Treasurer.

Additionally, Chris Breaux of Whitley Penn has joined the slate of Division Chairs as the Governmental Relations Committee Chair.

Keri Schmidt said of the engaged and dedicated group, “It’s very exciting that the Fort

Bend Chamber of Commerce continues to attract top quality community leaders to help guide the organization. We will have a very strong and diverse Board of Directors, Officers and Division Chairs, which will ensure our success in the new year.”

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