Fort Bend Independent 040319

email: editor@ independent.com

VOL 12 No. 14

Phone: 281-980-6745 50 cents

www.fbindependent.com ww .fbindependent.com

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2019

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City

Candidates campaign on passion to serve sans issues

Awareness Field at the Courthouse marks Child Abuse Prevention Month

PARTICIPANTS IN THE SUGAR LAND CANDIDATES FORUM. David Gornet, left, Mohammed Aijaz, Nabila Mansoor, Carol McCutcheon, Naushad Kermally, Steve Porter and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce President Keri Schmidt; Rear, Stewart Jacobson, left, Moderator Chris Breaux and William Ferguson.

By SESHADRI KUMAR community they care about. months ago. Service to others Mohammad “Jazz” Aijaz has Porter has served on the city is his motto. He has served the lived in Sugar Land since 2002. council for the last six years. He survivors of Hurricanes Harvey, He went to Barrington Place loved his neighborhoods and the Katrina, Ike, Rita, Michael (FL), Elementary, Sugar Land Middle, great historic sense of District 1. Florence (NC) with supplies and Kempner High School. He is seeking reelection because and physical service. Having Aijaz says he is a local product of his desire to keep Sugar Land served the county all these years, and loves his community. Jazz going in the right direction.

Ferguson describes his attempt has a strong passion for service.

Aijaz and Porter are among to become a council member as He has volunteered at the the eight candidates running a “natural transition.”

Sugar Land Animal Shelter and for Sugar Land City Council’s McCutcheon says she is various other local city events. four district seats and they seeking re-election because Since he is excited to continue were speaking at a candidates she loves Sugar Land. “I know his service, Aijaz is seeking to forum hosted by the Fort Bend Sugar Land,” McCutcheon says. become the next city councilor Chamber of Commerce in Sugar She has lived in Sugar Land for for Dist. 1.

Land on March 27.

25 years, served on city council, Incumbent Steve Porter and William Ferguson is and various committees like the his wife Nancy moved to Sugar seeking the District 4 Council Charter Review Commission Land from Houston more than seat, currently held by Carol and the Land Use Committee, 39 years ago to raise their family. McCutcheon. Ferguson became council’s finance and audit They have lived in District 1 for a police officer in 1992 in committee, and has been on all that time. Steve retired as a Stafford and is still serving as a Sugar Land 101, and police and Global Information Systems Reserve Deputy to the Fort Bend fire auxiliary, to name a few.

Project Manager after close County Sheriff’s Department. Safety and mobility continue to to 40 years with ExxonMobil He has lived in Fort Bend be her top priorities. Drainage Corporation. Both Steve and County since 1992 and currently is another issue. Her goal is to Nancy have and continue to lives in Greatwood which was maintain the quality of life in be actively involved in the annexed into Sugar Land 14 See CAMPAIGN, Page 3

The Exchange Club of Fort Bend-Rosenberg created this “Awareness Field” in recognition of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month and to serve as a reminder that there are children being abused in our county. The field has 2,126 white stakes with blue ribbons and each stake represents a child served by the Child Advocates of Fort Bend in 2018. On Monday, April 1, Fort Bend County Judge KP George proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and presented the proclamation to Ruthanne Mefford, CEO of CAFB. Above, Lindsey Castellanos of CAFB, left, Mike Reichek, Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast field representative for the National Exchange Club, former District Attorney and Exchange Club of Fort Bend member John Healey, Ruthanne Mefford, Sam Dick, former DA and member, Exchange Club of Fort Bend, County Judge KP George and Hina Qadri from the County Judge’s office.

Revised preliminary flood maps for Fort Bend County are ready for public view The revised preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in the cities of Fulshear, Simonton, and Weston Lakes, and the unincorporated areas of Fort Bend County.

Officials encourage property owners to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

For this physical map revision, the Flood Insurance Rate Maps for Fort Bend County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas and setting rates for flood insurance.

SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

“Along with our state and local partners we’ve worked hard to bring this critical information to Fort Bend County. We hope everyone will review the maps to understand their individual flood risks,” said FEMA Region 6 Administrator, Tony Robinson.

“Flood water does not stop at a line on a map, so I encourage everyone to purchase flood insurance because more than 25 percent of flood damages occur outside of the Special Flood Hazard Area.”

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting your local floodplain administrator (FPA).

A FEMA map specialist can help identify your community FPA and is available by telephone at (1-877-336-2627) or by email

at FEMAMapSpecialist@ riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online at the following locations: The flood map change viewer at http:// msc.fema.gov/fmcv. The FEMA map service center at http:// msc.fema.gov/portal. For more information about the flood maps: Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (click on the “Live Chat” icon).

Contact a FEMA map specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMAMAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@ riskmapcds.com Cost saving options may be available for those newly mapped into a highrisk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent, visiting https://www.floodsmart. gov, or calling 1-800-427-4661.

Much ado about a political rally

By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County resident Karen MacWilliam has rented Sugar Land Town Square for a “Stop socialism, Choose Freedom Rally” on April 15, 2019 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

A flyer announcing the rally, published in this paper and elsewhere, has received numerous adverse criticisms on Facebook.

Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman, who was scheduled to give remarks at the rally, along with several other Republican elected officials, has informed MacWilliam that he will not be attending the rally because of “his previous commitments.”

Former Congressman Tom DeLay is one of the listed speakers.

The discussion on the flyer started first with the remark “I see many of our Fort Bend elected officials names there.

We as a resident of this county should show up and listen to them. What is your thought ?”

Taral Patel **Tom Delay: Convicted Felon.

Don Bankston Taral Patel

MacWilliam Kinda Convicted but reversed on Appeal Taral Patel **Tom Delay: Convicted but eventually reversed on Appeal Felon Lakshmi Ramakrishnan Joe Zimmerman, too. Interesting Doug Beaton The only benefit I can see of attending this conference is to “know thine enemy”.

We have heard it all before and any rebuttal from the audience will not be met favorably.…

Hope Martin Doug Beaton

Sponsored by Serving Fort Bend County for 28 years!

and don’t forget the open borders and baby killer nonsense...listening to the lies is too exhausting. DEMs need to focus on new voters and the GOTV! Skip Belt This Republican rally will be a lot of sound and fury and little substance.

They will try to hang the “socialism” collar on the necks of every Democrat and have their evangelical preachers declare we are going to Hell. I say it is better not to engage them or add to their crowd. We already know who they are and what they will say. Let’s not be part of their story. They would Love to confront protesters.

Sharjeel Hanif Our City should not be giving a platform for hatred, very disappointed in Joe Zimmerman for not only allowing but speaking at such an event.

Zayd Ahmed As if socialism is a bad thing. Democratic socialism is my spirit animal Surendran K. Pattel This is apparently the Fort Bend County GOP’s 2020 campaign See RALLY, Page 3

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019

NEWS

Volunteers of America Texas unveil newly renovated community home

The Central Fort Bend Chamber celebrated the Ribbon Cutting and Open House for the newly renovated VOA Community Home TX – 4 on Chupik Street in Rosenberg. It is a group home for non-elderly men with disabilities. The home has the capacity to house 6 adults and is handicap accessible. Volunteers of America Texas staff greeted guests and provided tours of the home. Community Administrator Angela Bryant shared, “VOA is passionate, it is a ministry of service, and we love what we do so we want to get the word out about this project.

We know that there are non-elderly men with disabilities out there who are looking for this type of environment.” Volunteers of America Texas has been serving Texas for 120 years and is a provider of services for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. The full realm of the services that VOA –Texas provides can be found on their website, www.voatx.org.

If you would like to learn about how you can become involved with Volunteers of America Texas as a volunteer or a recipient of their services, please contact Angela Bryant at fbg@voatx. org or call 281-342-2423.

HMSL Hospital celebrates National Cancer Survivors Day on May 31

Houston Methodist Cancer Survivor Day Celebration 2018 Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is joining nearly 15.5 million American cancer survivors celebrating the 32nd Annual National Cancer Survivors Day® this year. Also being recognized are the many family members, caregivers and health care providers whose support of

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cancer survivors help make the celebration possible.

“A diagnosis of cancer can generate many emotions but survival is about embracing life and living each day to the fullest,” said Amy SebastianDeutsch, director of oncology services.

“You will find our Cancer Survivor’s Day celebration and resource fair filled with laughter, camaraderie, hope, compassion, faith, love and music as we honor cancer survivors for their strength and courage.”

Anyone living with a personal history of cancer – starting from the moment of diagnosis – is a cancer survivor, according to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation®.

“National Cancer Survivors Day is a great opportunity for cancer survivors, caregivers, friends and family to come together and affirm there can be quality of life after a diagnosis of cancer,” said Clive Shkedy, M.D., medical director of radiation oncology.

Additionally, the foundation says that more people are surviving cancer than ever before, thanks to advances in prevention, early detection, treatment and follow-up care.

Cancer, however, does come with many challenges, such

as hindered access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate or no insurance, financial hardships, employment problems and psychological struggles.

“Despite these difficulties, cancer survivors can live active, productive lives with the support of other survivors,” said Shkedy.

Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land welcomes all local cancer survivors and one guest to join us as we honor cancer survivors.

Find Your Sunshine, the Cancer Survivors Day Celebration and Resource Fair will begin at 10 a.m., Friday, May 31, at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. News anchor, Shern-Min Chow from KHOU 11 will emcee the event and this year’s keynote motivational speaker is Conor Cunneen an author and two-time cancer survivor.

Guests will also be able to have a photo taken at the photo booth, and visit our resource fair. Recognizing the importance of wellness, guests will be invited to participate in a fun activity prior to enjoying brunch. Registration is required. Register online at events.houstonmethodist.org/ survivorluncheon-sl or call 281.274.7500.

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INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019 • Page 3

NEWS FBISD to consider resolution supporting Two land owners sue Missouri City legislation related to Sugar Land 95 for denial of zoning change

The Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees will consider adopting a resolution in support of a bill to amend state statutes to permit Fort Bend County to own and operate the abandoned cemetery discovered during the construction of the District’s James Reese Career & Technical Center. The resolution will be similar to a resolution that was passed by the Fort Bend County Commissioner’s Court in support of the bill earlier this month.

Currently, the Texas Health and Safety Code allows cities and smaller counties to own and operate cemeteries. House Bill 4179, filed by Representative Rick Miller and referred to the House Committee on County Affairs, would allow counties with a population of more than 550,000 that borders a county

with a population of more than 3.3 million to own, operate, and maintain a cemetery.

School officials continue to work cooperatively with officials of both the county and city to memorialize the remains of 95 individuals who are believed to have been subjected to the State of Texas’s convict-leasing program which was in operation until 1911. The remains of these individuals have come to be known as the Sugar Land 95.

“Fort Bend ISD is appreciative of the support of Fort Bend County, the City of Sugar Land and our current state representatives who share our vision of memorializing this historic discovery,” said Board President Jason Burdine.

“We continue to be

optimistic that we will find a solution and that we will be able to share this important part of our shared history with generations to come.”

HB 4179 would allow Fort Bend County to take ownership and operate a historic cemetery, and continue negotiations with the District and the City of Sugar Land to memorialize the Sugar Land 95.

The FBISD Board of Trustees will consider the resolution during the next meeting April 8, 2019. During the meeting, FBISD District staff will also provide an update on the District’s work to incorporate this important piece of history into the FBISD curriculum. For more information on this discovery, visit www.fortbendisd.com/ historiccemetery.

Campaign

As a member of the Houston Organizing Movement for Equity, she has worked to ensure individuals and neighborhoods were able to receive adequate resources in the wake of Hurricane Harvey and improve disaster recovery efforts.

As a founding board member of Women’s Table of Houston and co-lead of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, and as CoChair of the Fort Bend County interfaith committee, she works to foster understanding between communities through interfaith events and volunteer initiatives.

As a Youth Leadership Organizer for Mi Familia Vota and OCA-Greater Houston, and as Executive Director for EmgageUSA, she created and implemented programs to train high school and college students to be civically engaged and take on leadership roles.

She is also engaged in programs to bring the underserved communities to the mainstream and help the underserved communities be counted in the 2020 census, while encouraging people to vote and take part in the election.

As a representative in the Houston Against Hate Coalition, she worked with several community organizations to address bullying and intimidation.

Mansoor says she is running for office as a better way to protect democracy.

The moderator Chris Breaux asked the candidates to list the problems faced by the city of Sugar Land today and how they would solve it.

Porter responded first with the issue of property tax revenue cap. The Texas Legislature is no longer in favor of local control, he said.

“Our cities are now run by Austin. Your vote has very little impact. They have been rude to us. How we are going to manage the finances and how we deal with what comes down from Austin are the big challenges,” Porter said.

McCutcheon said the city has more than $3 billion in assets that are aging.

To maintain the high quality of life and to keep the tax rate low is a challenge, she said.

Also, there are more projects than the money the city has.

The required capital improvement projects will cost $160 million, but the city has $100 million in CIP over the next 5 years. The $68 million shortage should be met by prioritizing the projects, McCutcheon said.

Mansoor said because of the recent flood, flood damage control is more important. The Brazos River erosion has to be studied and there should be a system in place to communicate in a timely and effective manner during emergencies, she said.

Kermally said he attended city council’s recent spring retreat to learn about the issues.

Top priority for the city now is

mobility, he said. He concurred with the city council that the growth in the mall and retail centers brought more traffic and Highway 6 needs to have a smooth flow.

Also, the arteries around U.S. 59 should not be clogged by traffic, Kermally said.

The drainage issue should be addressed and to ensure that no one suffers in flooding, the city should keep up with the problem in the next 5 to 10 years.

Gornet said the levees protected the city from flooding, the city has to cope with street level flooding. There is a need to understand the infrastructure and manage them efficiently with new technologies.

“We can do more with less when we use technology,” Gornet said.

Ferguson said he heard from people that they should get to work or back home from work faster. Traffic concerns in areas surrounding the Smart Financial Centre needs to be addressed, Ferguson said.

Aijaz said constituents of Dist. 1 feel mobility is a major problem. The animal shelter is another issue, he said.

Stewart Jacobson is running for the Dist. 3 seat being vacated by Amy Mitchell, but he is unopposed.

Jacobson said he has been “working the room” for 30 years through community service, (as if he was canvassing his candidacy). He loved his district and decided to run and he is glad to be on the city council after the May 4 election.

Asked why he should be elected, Jacobson said he knew what he was doing and he is experienced.

Kermally said, “I am committed. My resume shows it. I have built the resume for today. Ready to fill the shoes (of retiring council member Bridgette Yeung.)”

Hornet said he had a strong resume like that of Kermally.

He has served on the HOA, LIDs, MUDS and the Fort Bend Chamber. I have built great resources.”

Nabila said “It is a calling,” with a history of serving her community and she has been building bridges among many women’s groups.

McCutcheon said she was by far the most experienced candidate. She quoted a constituent, a Harvey victim, who said McCutcheon was making a difference in the community and that she would always remember her kindness.

Aijaz said he would listen to the community and learn about issues concerning all constituents.

Porter said, “I deliver.” He cited a $780 million drainage project in Dist. 1 and said there was no flooding. Also, the safety of bridges have been enhanced.

He would like to continue to serve to make life better for the people of Sugar Land.

From Page 1

Sugar Land with exceptional City services while keeping the tax rate as low as possible.

The District 2 seat, currently held by Bridgette Yeung, is open as Yeung is term limited. David Gornet, Naushad Kermally and Nabila Mansoor are seeking this seat. All three are Telfair residents.

Gornet says he is ready to serve the city, after serving the community for 28 years as a licensed Civil Engineer in transportation planning for the Houston region, allowing him to participate in improving quality of life through better mobility and safety.

During his years in Sugar Land, Gornet has served in many roles in the community, both elected and volunteer such as New Territory HOA, Board member of Fort Bend County MUD 67, a board member of Fort Bend County LID 17, a member of and Division Chair for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of the Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Development Program, founding Board member of West Sugar Land Little League, YMCA and Houston Youth Soccer Association, and Chairman of the City of Sugar Land Charter Review Commission.

Kermally and his wife came to Sugar Land 23 years ago.

They purchased a home in New Territory and now live in Telfair.

With a long history of service to Sugar Land, Kermally says his family inspired him to run and he wanted to give back to the community.

Currently serving on the board of Child Advocates of Fort Bend and the City’s Ethics Review Board, he educated himself about the city of Sugar Land as a Graduate of both Sugar Land 101 and the Citizens Police Academy and Graduate of the Fort Bend Chamber Leadership program.

A former Telfair HOA neighborhood delegate, he also served on the City’s Taskforce for the Parks Bond and Zoning Board of Adjustments. Kermally also made the time to coach his children’s basketball and soccer teams in the First Colony and New Territory sports leagues.

After a career in the medical field, he transitioned careers and joined a mobile technology startup company. That company has since grown from its local roots to a national leader in the wireless industry and Kermally serves as the Executive Vice President.

Kermally says he has been preparing for the last 10 years to run for city council and his experience sets him apart from his opponents.

Nabila Mansoor, an attorney, highlighted her involvement in community building and in several non-profit organizations as a community organizer.

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Missouri City Mayor Yolanda Ford and the city are being sued by two land owners challenging the city council’s unanimous decision denying a zone change from residential to planned development.

The plaintiffs who own the property are Ivy Kenneth Joy L. Miraflor and Josefina P. Serrano.

The suit was filed in Harris County District Court.

The petitioners argue that the applicants should get a temporary restraining order, permanent injunctive relief and inverse condemnation against Missouri City because they cannot put commercial buildings on the property they own.

The zoning remains residential even though it was appraised for commercial use and increases the city’s budget.

Council members were warned by former Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen that if they denied a land owner’s new requested zoning from single family residential to planned development (PD), they were risking a lawsuit.

At their Dec. 17, 2018 council meeting members took the risk and unanimously turned down the applicants’ request for the PD zoning.

The two plaintiffs are seeking monetary relief of over $200,000 but not more than $1 million.

Their case states that “regulatory takings,” or “inverse condemnation claims are exempt from sovereign immunity.”

It also says that when “regulation of private property ‘reaches a certain magnitude’... there must be an exercise of eminent domain and compensation to sustain the act.”

Their suit also says that “restricting the property to residential was due to Missouri City’s ‘incongruous zoning map’” and that residential restrictions have resulted “in plaintiffs continuing to suffer financial losses due to the acquisition of the property

through third party financing.”

It also says they continue to pay such lender monthly since buying the property.

On April 17, 2018 the plaintiffs bought 5.1913 acres of undeveloped land north of Life Pointe Church, south of Olympia Estates, east of Olympia Estates and Vicksburg, the Village of Sedona Creek and west of Vicksburg and the Village of Cumberland in Missouri City.

They requested rezoning to planned development in order to build a mixed use of two 3,000 square foot buildings and a third 7,000 square foot building. The two smaller buildings were to have a tutoring center and the other a cafe and multipurpose community room. The largest building was for the child care facility.

Missouri City’s Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) considered the PD request in July 2018. The P&Z members were concerned about the original development site plan near residential areas, so the applicant met with homeowners to revise their options.

At P&Z’s Oct. 10, 2018, meeting board members forwarded a positive recommendation to city council to rezone the property PD. City council organized a workshop between the applicant and residents and property owners of Vicksburg and Olympia Estates subdivisions to accommodate both.

Property owners who protested the PD owned 16.6% of the property within 200 feet of the subject site.

State law says it takes 20% of property owners protesting to require a 3/4th vote of all the members of an entity, so that vote was not required by Missouri City council members.

They all voted unanimously against the request for the PD zoning change but prior to that 6 nearby residents protested the zoning change at the council meeting.

Council’s vote means the property owners will pay higher taxes to the city and receive no benefit on their property.

P&Z’s recommendation to allow the change to PD was positive because for numerous years Missouri City has worked to bring in more businesses in an effort to decrease homeowner’s taxes.

“The public interest,” the suit says, “would be best served by issuing the injunctive relief plaintiffs seek because the obligation breached by defendants are destructive to everyday property and civil rights.”

It also says that the defendants’ actions not to rezone the R-A-1 to PD has made the plaintiff’s property a “fraction of its worth for commercial use.”

The plaintiff’s property was at first planned to be a mixed use development. The conceptual drawings show 7 buildings ranging in square footage from 2,500 to 7,000 square feet. The developer put a building height at 20 feet or one story.

Commercial uses considered were a child care facility, a mixed educational, professional, specialized retail commercial uses such as fitness facilities, medical offices, tutoring, etc.

The applicant said there would be no alcohol services and small scale food services would not exceed 5,000 square feet. The building phases were to start in a year and be continuous through four years.

The property owners’ applicant, John Tsai, told P&Z members at their July 11, 2018, meeting that the landowners are “interested in creating businesses that are community based with a certain village and synergy for public spaces.”

The programs being suggested are interrelated with education, after school education, tutorial centers, fitness and training facilities,” according to the minutes of the meeting.

He also said the buildings would have a courtyard for children to have a protected outdoor space and there would be a low monument sign at the entry point.

Parking will be centered and not highly visible, Tsai said.

Rally

April 16 is Emancipation Day Observance. A good day to get together.

Cynthia M. Ginyard I think it’s a waste of time, Shap. We are who we are and we got where we are being who we are and sharing our truths. I don’t even believe in canvassing Republicans (for our benefit).

I’ll pass. But, thanks!

Yvonne Wade Sanchez A random, retired real estate agent with a little over 100 FB friends and a gmail acct. convinced elected officials to spend 2 hours of their day in Sugar Land fighting an imaginary invasion on Tax Day? I don’t know. A reality TV star did get elected president of the USA, so anything could happen.

Shapnik Khan Thank you Mayor Joe Zimmerman (for withdrawing from the rally) MacWilliam sent a response to her Facebook critics and Yvonne Wade Sanchez who described her as: “A random, retired real estate agent with a little over 100 fb friends and a gmail account convinced elected officials to spend 2 hours of their day in sugar land fighting an imaginary invasion on tax day.”

“Since you do not know me, let me tell you who I am; I am a soon to be 77 year old mother and grandmother.

I have worked since i was 11 years old.

That job was to watch 3 children ages 9 months, 3 years and 5 years after school.

The money I made put food on the table while my father was in a hospital for 1 year.

At age 12, I was given away and lived in different houses including converted army houses (projects) called Crawford village until I married at 18.

I was a key punch operator at Alcoa in PA, Fluor in CA and other places where I worked second shift so I could be home with my 2 sons during the day. Later, I rented machines and did work at home.

When my children were grown, I got into real estate.

I was successful because I worked all hours (sometimes 7 days a week).

When I made money, I invested it in rental property.

I oversaw all of the rehab and managed them.

I love my country. An 8th grade teacher told me I was smart. I was in a school where it was 20 per cent white. There is good and bad in every color, religion and nationality.

This is a pro America rally.

It is not about hate. Anyone who stands for America is welcome.

Just because I don’t believe in open borders and support president Trump does not make me a bad person.

I stand for life, liberty and economic freedom. God knows who I am.

You may have gotten our wonderful mayor to not show up, but you have not won.

The left is all about hate.

We are not.

We just do not want socialism and support President Trump with the wall issue.

From Page 1 kickoff. Our presence would just add to the number of attendees; besides, they are not going to take questions from the audience. It would be beneficial for Democrats to organize and engage …

Skip Belt Surendran K. Pattel the answer is no. These benefits to citizens are not policies exclusive to socialist or things that define socialism.

Socialism is an economic and political system based on government ownership of the primary means of production ...

Skip Belt Democrats should stay away from this event.

No good can come from our presence.

Barbara Magana Robertson Shapnik Khan I am not sure where you got this flyer. I know for a fact that Mayor Zimmerman will not be attending or speaking. Sorry you have wrong information... someone is hoodwinking you.

Shapnik Khan Barbara Magana Robertson, then Mr. Zimmerman should come out and correct this misleading flyer. I have out(sic)most respect for him. He proved once again few Sunday’s ago he is an inclusive Mayor. I didn’t make this flyer and information is right there.

Barbara Magana Robertson Shapnik Khan He has and his name will be removed.

Linda Arbuckle April 15 is tax deadline filing. A good day for republicans to complain.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019

Budget nears final committee vote

INSURANCE

Electrical distribution equipment & clothes dryers cause home fires

By BASIL HOUSEWRIGHT, JR. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that approximately 35,100 home structure fires per year are associated with electrical distribution equipment.

From 2012 through 2016, these fires resulted in 2,560 civilian deaths, 11,670 civilian injuries and $6.5 billion in direct property damage each year.

Wiring, switches, receptacles and outlets were the equipment involved in ignition in 45% of the reported home structure fires involving electrical distribution equipment.

Extension cord fires outnumbered fires beginning with attached or unattached power cords by more than two-to-one.

(Source: NFPA’s Home Structure Fires Report.)

By following a few safety tips, homeowners can help prevent these types of fires.

•Replace or repair loose or frayed cords on all electrical devices.

•Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets.

•In homes with small children, electrical outlets should have plastic safety covers.

•Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plugging an appliance into a receptacle outlet.

•Avoid overloading outlets.

Consider plugging only one high wattage appliance into each receptacle outlet at a time.

Housewright •If outlets or switches feel warm, shut off the circuit and have them checked by an electrician.

•When possible, avoid the use of “cube taps” and other devices that allow the connection of multiple appliances into a single receptacle.

•Place lamps or level surfaces away from things that can burn and use bulbs that match the lamp’s recommended wattage.

Clothes dryers accounted for the largest share of appliance and tool fires between 2010 to 2014.

There were approximately 15,700 clothes dryer fires in U.S. homes each year, resulting in 13 deaths, 440 injuries and $238 million in direct property damage.

The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires was lack of maintenance (27%), followed by unidentified or unknowntype mechanical failure (10%) and part failure, leak or break (6%).

Clothing (not on a person) was the most common source

of ignition in home clothes dryer fires, followed by dust, fiber or lint.

(Source: NFPA’s Home Fires Involving Clothes Dryers & Washing Machines – March 2017. ) To prevent clothes dryer fires, be aware of the following safety tips.

•Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter. Clean lint filters before or after each use and remove accumulated lint from around the drum.

•Make sure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet suitable for its electrical needs as overloaded electrical outlets can result in blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.

•Turn the dryer off when leaving the home.

•Keep the dryer area clear of combustibles (i.e., boxes or clothing).

•Dryers should be installed and serviced by a professional.

•Have gas-powered dryers inspected by a professional regularly to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact.

(Basil 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. )

Derby Day party for Reining Strength

Iceman the horse, Craig Miller, Kelly Lewis, Kimberly Winningham, Heather Hernandez.

AUSTIN Members of the Senate Finance Committee will vote on a final budget proposal to send to the full body this week, according to the panel’s chair.

Senator Jane Nelson of Flower Mound told the 14 members of her committee following the adoption of workgroup recommendations Thursday that she expects to present a completed document for approval this Wednesday.

Since mid-February, members have been working in smaller groups divided by budget article to develop recommendations based on agency requests and available revenue.

After the votes to approve the individual workgroup products, all that remains is for the Legislative Budget Board to collate the document and make technical corrections.

Included in the approved recommendations is $9 billion in additional funding for public education, including $2.7 billion to provide property tax relief, the primary source of school funding in Texas.

Another $2.3 billion will go to general education reform with the remaining $4 billion marked to provide a $5,000, across-the-board annual pay raise to every teacher in the state.

Identified as the session’s top priorities by state leadership in January, workgroup and Education Committee chair Senator Larry Taylor of Friendswood said this budget will make significant progress on education and tax reform.

“At the end of the day I know we are going to take very large steps to improve our education outcomes for our students while providing meaningful tax savings for our businesses and our homeowners, and we’re also going to improve the pay of our teachers,” he said.

On the floor this week, Houston Senator Joan Huffman passed two key pieces of legislation. Monday, the Senate approved her plan, SB 12, to shore up the state’s struggling teacher pension fund.

Her plan would increase contribution rates from active public school employees, gradually upping the amount withheld from their paychecks for the Teacher Retirement System from 7.7 percent to 8.25 percent by 2024.

The state pays 6.8 percent of total public school employee payroll into the fund annually, that number would also rise to 8.25 percent by 2024.

School districts would raise contributions from 1.5 percent of payroll to 2 percent. With $47 billion in unfunded liabilities, the Legislature has periodically had to pay general revenue into the fund to maintain solvency.

That’s not very sensible, said Huffman. “This is longterm planning showing fiscal responsibility,” she said.

“This plan is far more cost efficient than simply attempting to contribute one-time infusions of cash every so often.”

Her bill would move the plan into fiscal soundness, cover

unfunded liabilities, and also provide for a one-time bonus monthly annuity payment of $500 to beneficiaries sometime in the next biennium.

Huffman’s second major bill this week would strengthen reporting requirements for incidents of sexual assault on college campuses, and include penalties for employees who don’t abide by them.

Huffman said that one in five women experience some form of sexual violence or harassment while in college.

She believes that ensuring that all allegations of these offenses are reported and investigated will help survivors find justice.

SB 212 would require that any employee at a public or private institution of higher education who sees or has knowledge of an incident of sexual assault or harassment report it to the campus Title IX coordinator for investigation.

It would require regular reports from the coordinator to the university president, and a report every semester from the president to the institution’s governing board about the number, disposition, and actions taken regarding these investigations.

Violating these provisions would result in termination for employees and even legal action if the individual knowingly failed to report or intentionally tried to cover it up.

Universities that aren’t in compliance could face a fine of up to $2 million.

—RICHARD LEE

On Saturday, May 4, 2019, Reining Strength will hold its 5th Annual Derby Day Event!

The event will be held at Safari Texas, 11627 FM 1464 Road, in Richmond, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Bring out your best Derby Day Hats ladies and dust off your boots men for the Best in Show Ladies’ Hat Contest and the Men’s Boots & Bowties Contest.

The event will also include a Roll for the Roses Horse Race, along with a large screen live feed of the 145th Kentucky Derby Race Simulcast.

Each guest will choose their horse to cheer on during the race and if he wins you win a prize as well!

The Derby Day Party event benefits Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship to Fort Bend County and the greater west Houston area.

Its programs serve individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs

through therapeutic horsemanship, providing safe, effective services that meet and exceed PATH International Standards (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship).

Central Bank is taking the reins as a Mint Julep sponsor, and early Boots -N- Bowties sponsors are Roxanne and Ed Gilson, Tom & Peggy Hernandez, NRG WA Parish, OCuSOFT, and Dana and Richard Peterson.

“Central Bank is honored to be proud supporters of Reining Strength. We look forward to playing a part in the organization’s growth for many years to come, and watching Reining Strength’s future expansion, for such a worthy cause,” said Craig Miller.

Win Place Show sponsors to date are, Ad Display Sign Systems, The Chapman Family, Chilton Capital Management, Fort Bend Junior Service League Provisional Group, Friends of Gigi’s Playhouse,

Carmen & Carlos Hernandez, E. W, Hildreth, DVM, Hoffman Insurance Group, Lambert Consulting, LLC, Kip & Olive Home and Interior Design, Thayer O’Neal, OPA1 Orthopedics, Jack and Claudia Peterson, The Schmidt Family, Speed Industrial Supply, Stancil Property Tax, John & Angela Thomson, Tri-Star Advisors, and Fran and Greg Zwick.

Sponsorships and Individual tickets are still available, please call 832.451.6874 or contact Heather at heather@reiningstrength.org The Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is a 501(c)3 Organization. Proceeds will help fund our continued ability to advance Our Mission: By partnering with horses, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship helps people realize their individual potential through customized equine-assisted activities and therapies.

Sugar Land Earth Day Celebration scheduled for April 13 Sugar Land’s Earth Day Celebration - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rock - will be held Saturday, April 13, from 1-5 p.m., on the plaza at Sugar Land Town Square.

New to this year’s Earth Day Celebration will be live performances by Andyroo and the Andyrooniverse. Don’t miss this green-minded high energy performance!

A variety of environmental activity booths and live performances are planned throughout the afternoon. Enjoy ecofriendly displays and demonstrations, interactive games and educational booths from many local organizations. The following events are scheduled: *Andyroo and the Andy-

rooniverse will perform at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m *Reptile shows by Texas Snakes & More will be held at 2:15 p.m. and 4:15 p.m.

Returning to this year’s Earth Day Celebration are Nutty Scientist and Nature & Eclectic Outdoors (NEO). Children can enjoy learning about the Earth through various science laboratory experiments with Nutty Scientist. NEO will offer outdoor education using diverse activities like fishing tournaments, life-size games and more.

Paper shredding will also be provided by ProShred at no cost from 2-5 p.m. in the parking lot at Sugar Land City Hall, 14727 Town Center Blvd. North. PaFORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

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

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

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

Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas.

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

per shredding must adhere to the following guidelines: *Residents must remain in their vehicles at all times. *Walk-ups will not be accepted. *ProShred staff will remove items from vehicles. *Residents may not be able to watch their documents get shredded. *Containers used to transport items and papers will not be returned.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rock is provided by the city of Sugar Land in partnership with Keep Sugar Land Beautiful, Sugar Land Town Square and the following sponsors: Republic Services, Living Earth, Nalco Champion, CenterPoint and ProShred.

Visit fbindependent.com

and subsribe to the Digital Edition for only $10 per year.

Read the Independent on your mobile phone or tablet.

INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019 • Page 5

NEWS Students are Riding to a Better Future Texas Children’s Fetal Center for Less with HCC and METRO celebrates 100th in-utero

Thanks to a partnership with Houston Community College and a select few additional colleges, METRO officials note that HCC METRO Student Q Card student rides increased from roughly 6,000 in FY 2015 to 1 million in FY2018. The partnership allows students to get the discount fare card on campus.

“A well-educated, skilled workforce is vital to the success of our region, and METRO plays a key role by removing transportation barriers to education,” says Tom Lambert, President and Chief Executive Officer of METRO. “We know thousands more HCC students are riding METRO today using their student cards than in the past.”

Dr. Melissa Gonzalez, president of HCC Southeast, was part of what she calls a

huge team that included HCC Chancellor Cesar Maldonado, PhD., P.E. Gonzalez and METRO’s Director of Client Services Karen Marshall agree that Dr. Maldonado’s forward-thinking vision is what pushed the program through at HCC. “What HCC brought to the plate was to take away the nine-hour study requirement to obtain the Q Card,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Now, you only have to show that you’re a student—you can be taking one class, getting your GED, taking Continuing Ed classes, it doesn’t matter.”

In addition, Dr. Gonzalez says HCC allows students to get their Q Cards on campus from Student Services, at any time of the year, instead of having to order from METRO. The card provides students a

50 percent fare discount.

HCC and METRO have partnered for several years to link the community at large to HCC campuses.

“We have a long history with HCC,” says Marshall.

“In 2004, when the [rail] Red Line was being built, Midtown wasn’t bustling the way it is now, but the HCC Administration Building was there, so we made sure we named that location the HCC Station.”

Marshall says a Midtown bus route, as well as METRORail, were intentionally placed with HCC’s Central campus in mind. Even many of HCC’s suburban campuses are covered by METRO routes.

“We want as many HCC students as possible to know they are just a METRO ride away,” says Dr. Gonzalez.

Houston Tennis Association offers scholarships grants

The Houston Tennis Association is accepting applications for several college scholarships to be granted to graduating seniors in the greater Houston area.

The scholarships, which range from $1,000 to $2,000, will be awarded to high school students who have participated in high school varsity tennis and/or USTA Texas tournaments or programs. (Students attending college on a tennis scholarship are not eligible to apply.)

In addition to HTA contributions, money for the scholarships has been provided by HTA National Junior Tennis &

Learning, the National Senior Women’s Clay Court Championships (for a young woman), the Steve Wolford Memorial Scholarship Fund, Sean Rudolph Memorial Scholarship Fund, World Oilman’s Tennis Tournament Scholarship Fund, the Copperfield Racquet Club Scholarships, GFT Charity Inc., the HLTA Mary Gaines Memorial Fund, the LeMaster Husband & Wife Tournament Scholarship and the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships.

Selection of students will be based on tennis participation, academic record, a personal

letter explaining why the student deserves the scholarship, extracurricular and volunteer activities and two letters of recommendation. In addition, parent or guardian tax information is required for needbased applications.

The deadline to apply is April 22, 2019. The application form may be downloaded from www.houstontennis.org under the tab “Scholarships.”

Call 281-580-8313 for more information.

The HTA has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarship funds to deserving high school seniors since 1992.

Global Issues Summit at Travis High School The seventh annual Global Issues Summit will be held at William B. Travis High School at 11111 Harlem Road, Richmond, Texas, 77406 on April 13, 2019. Check-In will begin at 8 a.m. with the program starting promptly at 9 a.m., and the Summit is expected to end at 4 p.m.

Registration is free and required to attend. Register by April 3rd at www.globalissuessummit.org! The Fort Bend ISD Global Studies Academy is a high school program dedicated to promoting global citizenship by focusing on languages, culture, and current events.

As a part of that mission, the Academy hosts an annual student-run event called the Global Issues Summit (GIS) to spread awareness about a range of global concerns to students

around the community as well as inform them about measures being taken to alleviate these issues in order to “Turn Awareness into Action.”

The seventh annual Global Issues Summit will be held on April 13th at William B. Travis High School.

This year’s Summit focuses on the theme of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals of Planet and Prosperity, which includes Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable Clean Energy, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Production and Consumption, Climate Action, Life Below Water, and Life on Land. This year, the Summit will feature inspiring speakers who will

give a series of fascinating presentations regarding efforts that capture the spirit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Speakers will cover pressing global issues such as poverty, human trafficking, and food accessibility.

In addition, there will be an array of captivating performances by individuals such as Grammy-nominated and globally acclaimed Vivalda Dula, as well as a collection of breakout sessions offering individuals interactive opportunities to engage in their activism including Dana Dearmon, Mickey Ary, Hilary Sherrer, Rosanne Barone, and Tim Mock and from such organizations including The Water Project, Houston Energy Renewable Group, Greater Houston Project, Air Alliance Foundation, and the Galveston Bay Foundation.

neural tube defect repair surgery

Taylor and Cole Avera with their newborn daughter Parker Kate and Dr. Michael Belfort, fetal surgeon and OB/GYN-in-chief of Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women Surgeons at Texas Children’s Fetal Center® have performed more than 100 inutero neural tube defect repair surgeries for babies with myelomeningocele, a developmental defect in which the spine is improperly formed and the spinal cord is open to, and fused with, the skin.

The condition, also known as spina bifida or an open neural tube defect (NTD), occurs in 3.4 out of every 10,000 live births in the U.S. and is the most common permanently disabling birth defect for which there is no known cure.

NTDs are usually associated with hydrocephalus, or the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which requires surgical treatment to drain the fluid via an implanted device called a shunt.

It’s common for children with spina bifida to have abnormal function of their bladder, bowels and legs. The goal of fetal surgical repair of spina bifida is to preserve leg function and reduce the need for a postnatal shunt.

The standard of care for spina bifida is neurosurgical closure of the defect in the first days of life. However, advances in fetal surgery and the landmark clinical trial, known as the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS Trial), proved a fetal surgical repair leads to decreased rates of hydrocephalus and improved leg function compared to a postnatal repair.

Of the 100 total cases, 53 of the repairs were performed

Reunion for The Fetal Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital Draws Families from Far and Wide to Reunite with Caregivers

Families across the Greater Houston area and as far away as Oklahoma convened at the Houston Zoo to attend The Fetal Center Family Reunion, where former patients and their families got a special opportunity to reunite with The Fetal Center specialists who cared for them.

Hosted by The Fetal Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, the event drew more than 220 attendees to the Zoo’s Karamu Outpost and featured fun activities for both adults and children, including a photo booth with props and Topper, the signature green giraffe who serves as the mascot for Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Because The Fetal Center is a national leader in fetal diagnosis, intervention and comprehensive care for babies with congenital anomalies and genetic abnormalities, many of the

children who attended the reunion received sophisticated and cutting-edge treatment for their complex fetal conditions while they were still in the womb.

The Fetal Center physicians, who are employed by McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, were overjoyed at the chance to interact with the kids they had cared for before birth.

“What a gratifying experience to be able to spend time with these families, sometimes years after their treatment, and get the opportunity to see these children continue to grow and thrive despite the odds against them,” said Dr. Anthony Johnson, codirector of The Fetal Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital and professor in the division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at McGovern Medical School.

Althea Canezaro and her son, Grayson, age 4. Grayson was the first baby to ever undergo a fetoscopic spina bifida repair at Texas Children’s Fetal Center. fetoscopically, an experimen- Texas Children’s Fetal Cental, minimally-invasive sur- ter in partnership with Texas gical approach pioneered at Children’s division of neuroTexas Children’s Hospital in surgery. The teams practiced 2014 by Dr. Michael Belfort, on a child’s kickball that repobstetrician and gynecologist- licated the mother’s uterus. in-chief at Texas Children’s Inside the kickball, a doll Pavilion for Women, and his acted as the fetus. By hoistteam. Texas Children’s was ing the ball into the air hung the first center in the U.S. to by various levers and pulleys, correct spina bifida defects fe- the team simulated the movetoscopically and is among just ment in the womb and praca few centers in the country ticed closing the spinal cord. that offers fetoscopic repair of Texas Children’s performed spina bifida. Texas Children’s its first fetoscopic NTD repair continues to offer open fetal in 2014 on Grayson Canezaro, surgery for spina bifida, the now 4-years-old.

“The multidisciplinary colstandard of care since 2012, for patients who do not qual- laboration with the Fetal Cenify for or opt not to undergo a ter on this surgical effort is an extraordinary example of fetoscopic repair.

Through their research and the innovative spirit at Texas outcomes data, Belfort and his Children’s Hospital,” Dr. Wilteam showed that perform- liam Whitehead, pediatric ing the surgery fetoscopically neurosurgeon at Texas Chilyields the same outcome for dren’s, said. “From a medical the baby as the open repair, standpoint, we believe closing while being significantly less the defect both in-utero and invasive for the mother. With fetoscopically, is a less invaa fetoscopic repair, the mother sive procedure for the mother, avoids having a large scar on reduces her risk of preterm her uterus, which decreases delivery and reduces the need her risk of uterine rupture and for shunts.”

Texas Children’s Fetal Cenpreterm labor. It also lowers her risk of a potentially life- ter is located on the fourth threatening condition called floor of Texas Children’s Paplacenta accreta, in future vilion for Women and is one pregnancies.

Additionally, of only a handful of facilities women who undergo feto- in the world to offer a full scopic repair are candidates spectrum of maternal and fefor a vaginal delivery, which tal care. Comprehensive seris not possible when open fe- vices include management of any complex pregnancy, getal surgery is performed.

“We are thrilled to netic counseling and the full offer this innovative and range of fetal diagnostic prominimally-invasive surgical cedures. The Fetal Center also approach to our patients and provides highly specialized their babies,” Belfort said. fetal surgeries for a number ”We thank the mothers and of congenital malformations. families who put their trust in Texas Children’s Fetal Center our team and have the courage is among the nation’s leaders to undergo an experimental in providing high-risk maternal care and the diagnosis and procedure.”

The experimental surgery, treatment of abnormalities in which continues to be subject unborn and newborn infants. to rigorous oversight by the For more information, please U.S. Food and Drug Admin- visit women.texaschildrens. istration, was developed by org/fetal.

INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019 • Page 6

AUTOMOBILE: Lexus UX Sport

Standard on all UX models are 18-inch run-flat tires in Machined finish + Dark gray metallic. They are quieter and now allow driving with a flat tire at speeds up to 50 mph for up to 100 miles.

The UX 200 engine makes 160 hp and 151 lb-ft of peak torque. Active Cornering Assist helps suppress the tenden-

cy to understeer. As a result, the UX drives through corners with greater precision while maintaining stability.

The standard Lexus safety system includes: pre-collision with pedestrian detection, radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and lane tracing assist. Other available safety systems in-

clude parking support alert and parking support braking.

The UX F Sport is one fun luxurious drive. It is Lexus smooth and quiet, the interior is prime and have I said it’s quick, fast fun. And it can be all yours for an MSRP of $34,000. The test drive UX F came in at $40,160 with options. Fabulous vehicle.

Fort Bend County Fair Crawfish are calling

By BARBARA FULENWIDER Lexus newest addition to the lineup is the 2019 UX -a package of charismatic new design and ultra-efficient new powertrains. The UX name describes its mission: Urban + X-over (crossover) = UX. The UX is definitely infused with dynamic attitude so delivers quick and engaging driving with a Lexussmooth demeanor. It is on a lightweight yet rigid structure, has an extremely low center of gravity and refined suspension tuning that results in exemplary handling agility and ride comfort.

The 2019 Lexus UX is available in two versions: the front-wheel drive UX 200 has a new high efficiency 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine coupled with a new 10-speed continuously variable transmission, while the all-wheel drive UX 250h got a fourth-generation hybrid drive system engineered specifically for its platform.

The F SPORT package is available for both the UX 200 and UX 250h. The suspension tuning includes revised springs and stabilizer bars for a tighter ride. The 18-inch, five twin-spoke aluminum alloy wheels unique to the F SPORT are more rigid than standard UX wheels and con-

tribute to the handling agility.

The F SPORT transformation includes an exclusive grille design, front bumper features, large LED fog lamp bezels with L-shaped chrome moldings, cornering lamps and the same mesh pattern as the grille. A revised rear bumper and jet-black trim on the front and rear moldings complete the F SPORT look.

The F SPORT-exclusive interior features include front sports seats made with a highly supportive technique.

A perforated leather-trimmed F SPORT steering wheel with paddle shifters, leather-trimmed perforated shift knob, 8-inch TFT color display, aluminum pedals, aluminum door scuff plates and footrest are also part of the package.

The UX makes the driver feel more in touch with the road thanks to a “seat-in-control” concept. The UX offers 8-way power adjustable front seats, with adjustable lumbar support and manual forward/ backward adjustment for the headrests.

The F SPORT features a larger 8-inch LCD display that varies depending on the powertrain (gas or hybrid) and the selected drive mode – ECO, Sport, Normal. For the F SPORT only, the movable

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Janet Rudolph Towart, Deceased, were issued on March 25, 2019, in Cause No. 19-CPR-032783, pending in the County Court at Law No. Four (4) of Fort Bend County, Texas, to: Jean Buchanan.

All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: Jean Buchanan 6543 Parkriver Crossing Sugar Land, TX 77479 DATED the 29th day of March, 2019. /s/ Michael V. Brophy Michael V. Brophy State Bar I.D. No.: 03082630 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 370 Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 277-4141 (281) 277-4111 FAX E-mail: Mike@Brophylawfirm.com ATTORNEY OF RECORD FOR JEAN BUCHANAN

meter ring, which originated in the Lexus LFA supercar, allows displayed content to be easily changed. Pushing a switch on the steering wheel moves the ring to the right and enlarges the multi-information display.

An available heads-up display provides the driver with vital vehicle information in the driver’s line of sight. The Lexus remote touch interface uses double-tapping and flicking, to mimic common phone gestures. A switch at the base of the touch pad can call up an operation screen with related functions, such as air conditioning and navigation, enabling easier access without going through menus.

The 2019 Lexus UX models offer 7-inch Lexus multimedia system display is standard, and a 10.25-inch screen with the available Lexus navigation system. The standard Lexus Premium Sound System can play back the highest-resolution digital audio formats from a USB device.

The standard 6-speaker system and available 8-speaker upgrade system use bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms to improve mid-range sound.

The 8-speaker system adds a center-dash tweeter, a subwoofer and more powerful amplifier. The multimedia system gets a10.25 inch display.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Bellaire Boulevard at Lakehead Lane, Precinct 3.

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

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Grand Vista, Section 27, Precinct 2.

City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE ******* OPENING DATE OF April 23, 2019 AT 2:00 p.m. ******* Request for Qualifications (RFQ No. 19-330) City-Wide Pavement and Sidewalk Evaluations Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 19-332) City-Wide, On-Call Electrical Services Provider Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the RFQ/IFB name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of City of Missouri City Attn: Purchasing Office RFQ No. 19-330 or IFB No. 19-332 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 Prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Until final award of the contract, the City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.

City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 19-325) Reconstruction of Glenn Lakes Bridge Over Oyster Creek Tributary Commodity Code: 913-13 Pre-Bid Conference is April 16, 2019 at 10:00 AM Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the IFB name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of City of Missouri City Attn: Purchasing Office IFB No. 19-325 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 Prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Until final award of the contract, the City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.

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,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Schultz Road, 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,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Boiling up some fun and crawfish are on the menu for the Annual Fort Bend County Fair Crawfish Boil and Fish Fry on Friday, April l2, 2019. Be ready to get your hands dirty and dig into the spicy crawfish at the 11th annual event that benefits the Fort Bend County Fair’s scholarship program. Texan Hyundai is returning to sponsor as we get our Cajun on! Crawfish masters, Me & Bubblaleaux’s Crawfish Express, will be serving up the mud bugs. “The crawfish boil and fish fry is a great event we host during the Spring. Every year we see families, businesses, and groups of friends come out and enjoy themselves. Great crawfish and good conversation makes for a grand time,” said Marjorie Pollard, 2019 Fort Bend County Fair President. The Crawfish boil is fun for the entire family. Crawfish veterans and newbies will enjoy all you can eat until it runs out. The doors will open at 6:00 PM and serving will be from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Tickets are $40 in advance, and a limited number of tickets will be available at the door for $50.Children 6-11 are $15, and Children 5 and under are free.

The Cajun rock band, Bayou Roux, will return with their N’awlins trademark sound. Come hungry and stay late for some bayou style fun. Get your tickets now at fortbendcountyfair.com.

Second Mile Mission Center hosts 15th Annual Banquet & Silent Auction Second Mile Mission Center’s 15th annual fundraising banquet and silent auction will be held Friday, April 12, at Safari Texas Ranch. The reception and silent auction begin at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. This year’s event is made possible by presenting sponsor Sugar Creek Baptist Church.

“This is Second Mile’s largest fundraising event of PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for A. Myers, 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,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk NOTICE OF ESTABLISHMENT OF ADDITIONAL MEETING PLACE To the residents and taxpayers of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 19 (the “District”) and to all the persons interested in the meetings of the Board of Directors of such District: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors, at a regular meeting held February 22, 2019, established an additional out-ofdistrict meeting place at the Fort Bend County Emergency Operations Center, 307 Fort Street, Richmond, Texas 77469.

All residents and taxpayers of the District and other interested persons are hereby invited to attend any meetings of the Board of Directors at such locations. /s/ James Green President

NOTICE OF ESTABLISHMENT OF ADDITIONAL MEETING PLACE

To the residents and taxpayers of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 15 (“District”) and to all the persons interested in the meetings of the Board of Directors of such District: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors, at a regular meeting held March 20, 2019, established an additional out-of-district meeting place at the Fort Bend County Emergency Operations Center, 307 Fort Street, Richmond, Texas 77469.

All residents and taxpayers of the District and other interested persons are hereby invited to attend any meetings of the Board of Directors at such locations. /s/ Darrell W. Groves President

the year and will ensure that thousands of families facing poverty or a time of crisis can find support,” said Sarah White, Second Mile’s Executive Director.

The banquet theme is “Equip,” and will reflect on the resilient and determined individuals served by Second Mile who are taking next steps and pursuing personal and professional goals to support their families.

The annual dinner and silent auction event raises operating funds for Second Mile, with a goal to raise $175,000 this year. Businesses, organizations and individuals throughout Fort Bend County support this event through sponsorships and donations to the silent auction.

Event sponsors include Robert & Carol Wells, Parkway United Methodist Church, Jamey & Jennifer Webster, Lisa Chapman, River Pointe Church, Harvey & Nancy Brannen, Bryan Calvin Smith Insurance, Darlene Bridges, Dave & Deby Goolsby, Doug & Vicki Freede, Dr. Premswarup & Madhuri Immaraj, First Colony Church of Christ, Houston’s First Baptist Church – Sienna, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospi-

tal, Jean Nichols, Dr. Kent & Mina Lawson, Kevin & Pam Johnson, Kings Path LLC, Lookout Services, Reagan & Jennifer Daniels, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Sarah White, Sugar Land Baptist Church, Susan & John Waldron, The Fort Bend Church, and Western Pines Mobile Home Community.

Corporate and table sponsorships are available, as well as individual tickets. To register or learn more visit www.

SecondMile.org or call Sheena Abraham at (281) 261-9199, ext. 213. To donate a silent auction item, call (281) 2619199 ext. 214 or email cmarie@secondmile.org.

Second Mile Mission Center is a faith-based outreach for Fort Bend families and individuals in need. With an award-winning food pantry and a free medical and dental clinic, Second Mile meets basic physical needs while providing equipping programs such as financial education, job readiness training, and English as a Second Language. Second Mile is completely community funded and is one of the largest stand-alone benevolence centers in the Houston area. www.SecondMile.org

Autism Symposium to Educate Families and Benefit Hope For Three

An Autism Symposium presented by the HELP SEMINAR SERIES at KnILE Center aims to educate families through a panel of experts and equip them with helpful tools that empower them to tackle life’s challenges. Tickets for the April 12 event will benefit local autism charity, Hope For Three, which provides activities for, and support to, families living with autism spectrum disorder.

Attendees can expect to hear from a psychologist, and neurologist about simply understanding autism. Therapists will also be onsite to educate on the varied treatment options available and Hope For Three will provide valuable information on how to garner resources and the organization’s various events and support systems provided by the nonprofit for families.

KnILE Center will assist with helpful education resources, and guests will have a chance to meet ‘superstars’ Grant Manier and Tori Rash, who’ll share success stories full of inspiration while living with autism.

The Autism Symposium and Resource Fair is held at KnILE Center, 5419 FM 762 Richmond, from 9 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $10 (ALL proceeds benefit Hope For Three). Tickets or donations can be purchased at eventbrite.com or call 281-7616610. RSVP required.

INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019 • Page 7

NEWS

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is planning Up, Up and Away Gala

Playing the part for the “Up, Up and Away” Gala shown front row (L to R) are: Cynthia Barratt, Marilyn Parker, Rose Mary Martinez. Back row (L to R) are: Charles Hewitt, Jamie Lenard, Theresa Ku-Hardison, Thomas Mason, George Haines, Courtney Mason, Nick Townsell and Clayton Reeves. In the basket is Princess.

Longtime supporter, OCu- energy while raising money and late-night dancing with SOFT, Inc. is participating as for the agency,” stated Event the band Chicken and Waffles a Blue Sky sponsor at Child Chair Lisa Moore. “In addition Music. For $100 anyone can Advocates of Fort Bend’s to Diamond Club seats behind purchase a raffle ticket for a 19th annual Gala “Up, Up and home plate at a Houston As- chance to win an exclusive Away” on May 4, 2019 at the tros game, one week stay at an Chef Experience and Dinner Sugar Land Marriott Town all-inclusive resort in Mexico, for 8 at Steak 48 in Houston!

The Exchange Club of Sugar Square. “The Gala commit- numerous jewelry pieces, furs tee is hard at work and we’re from Woody’s Furs and an ex- Land is this year’s Moonlight excited to put together another tensive auction we have a wine Presenting Sponsor. Michele top-notch event that’s full of pull, jewelry pull, fine dinner, Fisher will serve as the eve-

ning’s emcee. Johnny Bravo will be the auctioneer. Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School will delight guests with a performance by their young dancers. Attire is festive and colorful elegant with black tie optional. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available ranging from $2,000 to $15,000. Individual seats are $150. To attend the Gala, become a sponsor or for more information, go to https://www.cafb.org/events/ gala/sponsorship-opportunities/ or contact Lisa Moore at 281344-5108 or lmoore@cafb.org.

The gala and auction raises much needed funds to support Child Advocates of Fort Bend and its programs for abused and neglected children. This is your chance to join OCuSOFT, Inc., Exchange Club of Sugar Land and Child Advocates of Fort Bend in making a difference for children in Fort Bend County.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to ending child abuse by providing a voice, healing the hurt, and breaking the cycle of child abuse in Fort Bend County.

Through its Court Appointed Special Advocates Program (CASATM), Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and more than 200 trained community volunteer advocates, Child Advocates improves the lives of more than 400 children each month and has served more than 16,565 children since opening its doors in 1991. Volunteers are needed to help in the agency’s Children’s Advocacy Center and in the Court Appointed Special Advocates Program.

For more information, contact Dana Mersiovsky for a tour at 281-344-5106 or dmersiovsky@cafb.org or log onto www.cafb.org.

DEWALT HERITAGE CENTER ANNUAL YOUTH ART SHOW: Third Grader Abby Malone shows off her artistic talents at the DeWalt Heritage Center’s Annual Youth Art Show where 265 guests attended March 23rd and 24th under the direction of Dew House Docent and Retired Art Teacher Becky Gay. Six area elementary schools and two high schools participated in this event at the historic Dew House located in Kitty Hollow Park. Save the date for the Annual Yard and Porch Sale Saturday May 18th from 8:30 AM to 1 PM. The Dew House is located at the back of Kitty Hollow Park-heading South on Highway 6, the park is the 2nd left just past the Sienna/HEB shopping center (or 9555 Highway 6)

Loving Friends Dinner April 16

Loving Friends will meet for dinner and entertainment at 5 p.m,Tuesday, April 16 at Quail Valley City Cr., 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City. Donna Brawley, a native Texan,The Ebony Cowgirl, will entertain the group as she sings all country music from traditional to modern. This talented performer was awarded Most Inspirational Entertainer of the Year by the Texas Opry Jamboree. Loving Friends is reaching out to those who have lost their spouses but want to move in a social environment with like minded friends.

The cost for dinner and entertainment is $24 inclusive, paid at the door. Other activities include monthly luncheons and pokeno. If you are looking for fellowship and friendship after losing a spouse, Loving Friends will welcome you. Reservations required for dinner. Call 281-208-3124.

BACK AND NECK PAIN SEMINAR JOIN US FOR AN INFORMATIONAL SEMINAR Wednesday, April 17 | 6 p.m.

Stop enduring pain. Whether you’ve had back and/or neck pain for a few days or several years, we are here to help.

At this seminar, our specialists will discuss: • Causes and prevention • Leading-edge imaging technology • Treatment and rehabilitation technologies

Jeffrey Wood, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

REGISTRATION REQUIRED Visit events.houstonmethodist.org/backpain-sl or call 281.274.7500.

16655 Southwest Fwy. Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Sugar Land, TX 77479

Christian Peccora, MD Interventional Pain Management Specialist

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • APRIL 3, 2019

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