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VOL 12 No. 18
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2019
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City
Fort Bend County Fair Queen Scholarship Contest
2017 Fort Bend County Fair Queen, Marissa Salazar, embraces Hannah Hunt after being named 2018 Fort Bend County Fair Queen. The 2019 Fort Bend County The Fort Bend County Fair is lives,â€? said Marjie Pollard, accepting entries for contestants 2019 Fort Bend County Fair Fair Queen will be crowned on Friday, September 27, 2019. for the Fair Queen Scholarship President. Reigning queen, Hannah For more information visit Contest. The number of entries accepted will be limited to 20 Hunt, has been busy attending fortbendcountyfair.com or call contestants and registration events, riding in parades, and the Fair OďŹƒce at 281-342-6171. representing as an ambassador deadline is June 14, 2019. A mandatory orientation for the Fair. The Fort Bend meeting will be held on Sunday, County Fair Queen Scholarship By SESHADRI KUMAR June 23, 2019 at 2 p.m at the Contest is for females between Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in building W. the ages of 15 and 19 who are Commissioners Court has “Being Fair Queen is a tradition residents of Fort Bend County. appointed longtime Fort Bend The competition is based on at the Fort Bend County Fair. County Tax OďŹƒce employee While we have one winner, all a personal interview, an essay, Carrie Surratt as the new Tax these young ladies who take the a networking event, community Assessor-Collector until the opportunity to run for Queen service and participation. next general election. Mrs. will endure an experience Winners receive scholarships Surratt replaces Patsy Schultz, and acquire a set of skills that and prizes for their eorts, as a Republican elected oďŹƒcial, they will be able to take with well as the opportunity to serve who will be retiring at the end of them into their college years as a community ambassador for April. and beyond into their careers. the Fort Bend County Fair for County Judge KP George Our Fair Queen Scholarship the coming year. Entries must described Surratt as a qualiďŹ ed, Committee is making a be submitted no later than June Democratic Tax Assessordierence in these candidates’ 14, 2019. Collector. “By appointing Mrs. Surratt to her respective role, the
Early voting brisk in New Territory, Telfair
By SESHADRI KUMAR Early voting in local school board and city council elections remained lukewarm in most polling sites as in the past, but New Territory and Telfair have shown some brisk polling. Fort Bend ISD has about 234,000 registered voters and there are three contested races. In early voting through Saturday, 6,250 have voted. Two more days of early voting remain before the May 4 election day. In 2017, only 6,052 or 2.6 percent of all the registered voters cast their vote in FBISD races, including early voting and on election day. Missouri City area locations have recorded very low early voting numbers for the FBISD races, though there are several candidates running from that area. There are no city elections on the ballot in Missouri City. Missouri City City Hall had 196 people voting in the ďŹ rst 6 days of early voting, essentially in FBISD races, Hightower High School had 121 and Sienna Annex registered 683 votes. Sugar Land’s Fire Station No. 7 in Telfair recorded 1,202 votes
in the ďŹ rst week of early voting, the highest for any early voting location in the county. The second highest early voting number of 792 votes was in Sartartia Middle School in New Territory. Jacks Community Center (First Colony) had 711 votes cast, Sugar Land Library had 670 votes, Commonwealth Club House registered 510 and FBISD Admin. building, 403 votes. Rosenberg County annex with 761 votes and Staord City Hall with 704 votes were among the other active voting locations, where both city council and school board races are on the ballot. Turning to Sugar Land, Dist. 1 had 719 early votes, Dist. 2 got 1,936 votes and Dist. 4 polled 1,426 votes. Dist. 1 has about 21,000 registered voters with Anglos 46 percent, Asians 30 percent, Hispanic 13 percent and Black 9 percent. District. 2 has about 18,000 registered voters with Asians forming a majority of 46 percent, followed by Anglos 34 percent, Blacks 9 percent and Hispanics 8 percent. District 2 did not have
a contested election in the last 8 years. Riverpark, New Territory, Telfair and a sliver of First Colony comprise Dist. 2. Dist. 4, with the addition of Greatwood, has about 19,000 registered voters. Here Anglos are 56 percent, Asians 29 percent, Hispanics 10 percent and Blacks 7 percent. Dist. 1 and Dist. 4 have incumbents running with a straight opponent. In Dist. 2, an open seat, three Telfair residents are on the ballot, with a distinct likelihood of a run-o election between the two top vote getters, unless one candidate crosses the 50 percent mark. Telfair has also two candidates running for Position 3 FBISD Trustee race, currently held by Jim Rice. He has one more opponent from the Riverstone area. In school district races, the top vote getter is elected. Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2, comprising the central part of First Colony in Sugar Land is also holding a special bond election and 757 have voted early, somewhat unusual for a LID election. Maybe the eect of Harvey ooding.
Carrie Surratt appointed county Tax Assessor-Collector Tax Assessor-Collector’s OďŹƒce will be one of the best run county oďŹƒces of their kind. Carrie is a true expert and professional that brings a wealth of knowledge to Fort Bend County Tax OďŹƒce. Our residents will beneďŹ t from her decades of experience in the tax and accounting ďŹ elds. Coupled with her leadership abilities, the Fort Bend County Tax Assessor Collector’s OďŹƒce will provide the best service possible to the diverse residents of our community,â€? George said. Initially, besides Surratt, two others - Neeta Sane, a Houston
Surratt Community College Trustee, a Democrat, and Philip Andrews, a Republican, were among the potential appointees.
EARLY VOTING: APRIL 22ND - 30TH
With three member Democrat majority, a Republican nominee was unlikely. Neeta Sane could have been selected, but was not, ostensibly because she did not get support from all three Democrats on the commissioners court. Another explanation is that Surratt got the backing of Fort Bend County Democratic Party hierarchy. Sane wasted no time. On April 25, she posted on her Facebook page that she will seek the Democratic Party’s nomination in 2020 for the Fort Bend County Tax Assessor-Collector.
ELECTION DAY: MAY 4TH LIVES IN SUGAR LAND
Jim is committed to his community and FBISD. He is actively involved in many ways: Fort Bend Cares, Co-Founder and Board Member Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Board, Education Division Vice Chair Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council Member )RUPHU Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, Board of Directors Boy Scouts of America for over 20 years Texas Association of School Boards, Region 4 )LUVW 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW Christ Church Sugar Land, Member
WHY VOTE FOR JIM RICE? Jim is a business owner, a husband and a father who considers serving on the Board of Trustees of Fort Bend ISD both an honor and a privilege. He has served as Trustee, Position 3, since May of 2010. He was elected Board Secretary in June 2011 and Board President LQ VHUYLQJ WZR FRQVHFXWLYH WHUPV LQ WKDW RIILFH +H FXUUHQWO\ VHUYHV RQ WKH Board’s Audit Committee.
With your vote, Jim will continue to serve to make a difference!
EARLY VOTING: APRIL 22- APRIL 30 ELECTION DAY: MAY 4, 2019 Political ad paid for by Jim Rice for FBISD Campaign
Resident of Sugar Land for over 20 years Married 23 years Three children born and raised in Sugar Land WORKS IN SUGAR LAND 1998 started as an ER Nurse at Methodist Hospital Sugar Land Currently an Executive VP at a wireless company in Sugar Land SERVES IN SUGAR LAND Child Advocates of Fort Bend - Board of Directors City of Sugar Land - Sugar Land 101 Graduate City of Sugar Land - Citizens Police Academy Graduate City of Sugar Land - Ethics Review Board City of Sugar Land - Zoning Board of Adjustments City of Sugar Land - Task Force for Parks Bond Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Program Graduate Former Neighborhood Delegate SUPPORTS SUGAR LAND Child Advocates of Fort Bend City of Sugar Land Police Department - Back the Blue Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Fort Bend Education Foundation George Foundation Scholarship (YIP)
KermallyForSugarLand KermallyForSugarLand.com rm mallyForSu m Sug u ugarLand d co ccom Political Advertising paid for by the Naushad Kermally Campaign, Nimesh Patel, Treasurer
Sponsored by Serving Fort Bend County for 28 years!
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019
NEWS
Greatest Generation Veteran honored on his 100th birthday
On April 2nd Edward A. Gibbons, a resident of Sienna Plantation celebrated his 100th birthday at a reception given by The Wm. Tony Workman American Legion Post 294 of Missouri City. The event was in conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion. Known by friends as Mr. Ed he was co-founder of this Post and served as the First Vice Commander and is a member today. Ed was joined by his wife Adele, children and grandchildren. He was born in Pennsylvania where he spent his formative years. At an early age he felt the call to serve his country and in December, 1941 he joined the United States Army Air Corps. He served as an Aerial Engineer on B-24 Bombers until the end of WWII Continuing his desire to serve he became a Motorcycle Police Officer for the City of Boston where he received numerous awards and honors. In the mid 1950’s at the insistence of his little sister he relocated to Texas and joined their business representing The Sealy Mattress Company throughout the Texas
GulfCoast until his retirement many years later. He has lived an amazing life and enjoys writing. He published six crime novels and visited over 60 countries. His awards are too numerous to mention. Missouri City City
Councilman Floyd Emery presented him a Proclamation from the Mayor of Missouri City naming April 2nd Edward A. Gibbons Day. He also received awards from American Legion District Commander Charlie Miller and awards from his
fellow members in Post 294. The Quilt of Valor Foundation presented Mr. Ed a Quilt of Valor in honor of his service. He was wrapped in the Patriotic Quilt that will bring him love, comfort, friendship and appreciation for his service.
Katy student one of 100 students in the world to get perfect score on AP Spanish
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT I COMMISSIONING At Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. we act as an extension of our clients by offering comprehensive, custom services from concept to closeout
Doris Gonzales with Gian Rodriguez Gian Rodriguez is a Class of 2020 student at Harmony School of Innovation-Katy. The College Board released the 2018 Perfect Score Data and informed Gian he was 1 of 100 students in the world who got the maximum score for all the questions on the Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish Language Exam. Trevor Packer, College Board Senior Vice President of AP & Instruction, applauded Gian’s hard work and recognized his AP teacher, Ms. Doris Gonzalez, for engaging and enabling him to excel in a college-level course. Packer also wrote that achieving such an accomplishment is “likely a direct reflection of the top-quality education being offered at Harmony School of Innovation Katy.” Gian was very happy and humbled when he recently found out the news of his perfect score. Gian was born in the United States, raised in a bilingual family, and learned to speak English and Spanish at the same time. Speaking Spanish occurred at home but everywhere else he spoke, read and wrote in English. He took Turkish as his foreign language elective in middle and high school, an example of his immense passion for foreign languages. His sophomore year, he took his very first Spanish class which happened to be an AP class taught by Ms. Gonzalez. Ms. Gonzalez said “He (Gian) worked very hard to master the grammar, advanced vocabulary, and technical language structure. It is not easy to go straight into an AP class without prior base level classes in the same subject. However, in Gian’s case, I was so amazed by his ability to achieve mastery of Spanish communication skills within the year. “I am so proud of Gian’s work ethic and passion for languages and cultures.” Gian praised his teacher, “Ms. Gonzalez was amazing, she really helped me out a lot.” Ms. Gonzalez began her teaching career 20 years ago in Puerto Rico; taught there for 10 years and in Houston for 10 years. She has been an AP teacher for a total of 9 years. Gian’s plan after graduating in 2020 is to study computer science. He is proud of his test score, and knows he will continue to speak Spanish with relatives but does not know yet how he might use it in his career.
6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 1212, Houston, TX 77036 I 713.482.2300 I www.ricegardner.com
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INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019 • Page 3
NEWS
Dulles High School collects multiple awards at national Academic Decathlon Dulles High School’s Academic Decathlon team earned several awards this weekend at the 2019 USAD (United States Academic Decathlon) Nationals competition in Bloomington, Minnesota. The team earned second place among Division I schools, and third place overall. Dulles was also awarded the Rookie of the Year Award for Division I schools and earned second place in the team Super Quiz, the live and intense multiplechoice competition. Students earned several individual accolades at the national competition, including highest-scoring team member Simon SanchezPaiva and most valuable team member Ali Abi Nassif. Other
individual honors include: •Lana Haffar – 2nd Place Honors in Arts and 2nd Place Honors in Social Science •Logan House – 2nd Place Varsity in Math, 3rd Place Varsity in Music and 3rd Place Varsity in Art •Olivia Jackson – 3rd Place Scholastic in Math, 3rd Place Scholastic in Literature and 3rd Place Literature in Art •Ali Abi Nassif – 2nd Place Varsity in Interview and 3rd Place Varsity in Math •Simon Sanchez-Paiva (*3rd Place Overall Scholastic) – 1st Place Scholastic in Music, 1st Place Scholastic in Social Science, 1st Place Scholastic in Literature, 1st Place Scholastic in Art, 2nd Place Scholastic in Economics, 2nd Place Scholastic in Science and 3rd Place Scholastic in
Math •Ethan Sollenberger – 1st Place Scholastic in Math, 2nd Place Scholastic in Music and 3rd Place Scholastic in Essay •Davis Varghese (*3rd Place Oversall Varsity) – 1st Place Varsity in Math, 1st Place Varsity in Music, 2nd Place Varsity in Economics, 2nd Place Varsity in Social Science and 2nd Place Varsity in Science •Robert Yang – 1st Place Honors in Math, 1st Place Honors in Literature and 3rd Place Honors in Social Science •Sophie Yangyi – 1st Place Honors in Arts (Perfect score), 2nd Place Honors Economics, 2nd Place Honors in Social Science, 3rd Place Honors in Music and 3rd Place Honors in Literature
Four FBISD semifinalists in 2019 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Fort Bend ISD is proud to announce that four District high school students are named semifinalists in the 2019 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. They were among 13 FBISD students who were named candidates in the program in February of this year. Established in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes and honors some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors, who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts
and career and technical education fields. Each year, approximately 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, which is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. The FBISD semifinalists include: •Yuqing Liu, Dulles High School Math and Science Academy •Divya Nagaraj, Clements High School •Sameer Vikram Rajesh, Clements High School •Lauren Hu Yang, Dulles High School
New mixed use development planned on U.S. 90A in Stafford
By BARBARA FULENWIDER There is good news for Stafford. A commercial development is expected on the southeast corner of Brand Lane and Main Street. It will balance mixed land uses and diversify the sales tax base by putting more money in Stafford’s coffers. It will also attract people to live, work and shop in Stafford. At city council’s past meeting members unanimously approved changing 5.8 acres of land to commercial use. To do that Ekram Development Group applied to the city to change the property from Primary Corridor and Mixed Use to Planned Development (PD). Ekram’s proposed commercial development will be on four parcels of land that range from approximately 0.5 to 2.6 acres in size. The developer plans to have
retail and restaurants fronting on Hwy. 90A and other buildings in the rear of the property for offices, a large retail flooring showroom, an urgent care facility, a climate controlled self-storage facility and more. All the buildings will be architecturally compatible. Sidewalks will connect the buildings and will be a well-defined pedestrian network, according to a speaker for the developer. There will be a parking lot, perimeter landscaping, and restricted commercial signage that promotes a quality development, according to the developer. Signage will be for the retail and the business park. The Stafford Planning & Zoning Commission told council members in background information that the development’s retail will maximize the frontage of Hwy. U.S. 90A, revitalize areas of opportunities to attract new
investment and activity and encourage redevelopment of areas throughout Stafford. The members unanimously recommended approval of the developer’s request. Mayor Leonard Scarcella said he is “very impressed” and thinks it will make “for a fine development.” Councilman Wen Guerra said, “Putting in retail and fast food, I think this will be a big portion of Hwy. 90A shops that I think will go east to west. I think this will be a very good thing.” Councilman Ken Mathew said, “That corner is an eyesore. I think this is a very good beginning. Along Hwy. 90A the businesses will make a lot of money.” Council Member Virginia Rosas said she was excited about it. All council members were impressed and ecstatic about the city’s upcoming planned development.
Celebration of life well lived: Sonal Bhuchar
Eulogies at the April 27 funeral service for wellknown community member Sonal Bhuchar were simple, solemn, heartwarming, and devoid of hyperbole. Sonal Bhuchar, 58, passed away on April 20, 2019 after a valiant battle against lung cancer. An estimated 1,000 people attended the funeral, a testimony to the large number of people she touched, both in the Indian American community and in the mainstream. Due to space constraints many people had to wait outside until the end of the service so that they could go inside and pay their respects. Sonal’s three children eloquently demonstrated how their mother brought them up and taught them values, especially that of community service. She was no less of a disciplinarian parent either. The gathering was moved by Dr. Subodh Bhuchar’s narration of how he first met Sonal with a popular Bollywood movie title “Jab (when) we met.” Subodh saw an impressive girl in a white sari, with a bright red dot on her forehead, participating in a college debate and it was love at first sight. At the end of the debate, he asked her for her phone number to which she smartly replied that he should get it from her father. The rest is history. Subodh sought to mention what Sonal has been and is, and would not use the word Sonal was, because she will always be. Jim Rice, Fort Bend ISD Trustee, who served with Sonal on the school board, in his eulogy said: “Sonal Bhuchar was a blessing in the lives of her family, her friends, and our community. She has left us a positive legacy which continues to benefit many people, even those who did not have the opportunity to know her. “Sonal was the model
Sonal Bhuchar of a true servant leader, a thoughtful, capable and competent individual who worked tirelessly for many years to build bridges of understanding and friendship between our very diverse communities, and she was my friend.” Continuing he said, Sonal was his mentor, friend and a role model of how a trustee and board president should comport oneself. He narrated an incident which described how Sonal defused a tense situation. “When it was her turn to speak, I watched in amazement at how calmly and eloquently she quieted the crowd. She faced down 200 angry people with remarkable aplomb, an uncommon trait described by Walt Whitman as the ability to stand before presidents or generals (or an angry crowd) with an uncommon amount of self-confidence and poise.” During her time on the school board, Sonal brought stability, rational thinking and compassion to her role, Rice said. Concluding, he said, “Sonal was a lady who lived life to the fullest and who bore the vicissitudes of this life with dignity, determination and courage.” Fort Bend Chamber of
Commerce President Keri Schmidt in her eulogy said: “Sonal has touched my life through her daughter, the chamber, the Fort Bend Leadership Forum Class of 2014, our service together on a local board where we joked that we went full on Thelma and Louise, and then most recently when she and Subodh came to my family’s rescue in securing critical medical care for my sister and saved her life. “Sonal has been a steadfast light in our community for thirty years. From her origins in Mumbai, the streets of New York and the tumbleweeds of Lubbock, we all won the lottery when she and Subodh finally settled down in Sugar Land. “Her servant heart and compassion for others was evident in her work and service to the community. She was instrumental in planting the seed for the first International Festival through the Fort Bend Education Foundation celebrating the great diversity of the children of Fort Bend who she loved.” Last Wednesday, a $5,000 scholarship in memory of Sonal was awarded at the Annual Youth in Philanthropy Luncheon to Alexis Zalaya, a senior at Willowridge High School. Alexis wrote in his scholarship application, “My view of the world was limited. I have always had a fondness for meeting new people because everyone is a cultural treasure waiting to be unlocked. My future plans are to attend Texas A&M and pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Thanks to YIP, I will also be a compassionate citizen and servant leader in my community giving back to the best of my ability.” Schmidt suggested that Sonal be remembered at the annual YIP luncheon with a named scholarship in her honor. —SESHADRI KUMAR
Sugar Land Winds prepares for concert
Information sought on AutoPedestrian fatality in Rosenberg
Rosenberg Traffic Enforcement Officers investigated an auto/pedestrian crash on the morning of Sunday April 28, 2019 that tragically resulted in the death of one person. The accident occurred at 6622 Reading Rd, Rosenberg, otherwise known as Blue Wave Car Wash. The Rosenberg Police Department received requests for police and medical services at approximately 10:45 Sunday morning. During the subsequent investigation investigators learned that an elderly customer lost control of his vehicle while backing out of a parking space and struck several vehicles including the victim’s, who as a result was
pinned between her vehicle and a steel beam. Rosenberg citizens took immediate action physically moving her vehicle by hand to release her from being trapped. Medics arrived and treated the victim, but investigators learned she later succumbed to her injuries. The names of those involved are not being released at this time as this matter in still under investigation. No criminal charges have been filed at this time. “We are saddened by the tragic event that occurred Sunday morning. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and request that everyone involved receive your thoughts and
prayers,” said Chief White. “We also would like to extend a special thanks to those Good Samaritans who jumped to action in efforts to help someone in need.” Anyone with information regarding a crime is encouraged to contact Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477). You can also submit online at http://www.fortbend. crimestoppersweb.com/ If that tip leads to an arrest you can receive a cash reward! Information, which leads to the apprehension and filing of charges on the suspect(s) involved, could earn you up to $5,000 cash reward. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.
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Each Wednesday night the sounds of flutes, trombones, drums and other instruments fill the band hall at Clements High School. But the players are not high school students--they are band directors, private teachers, retired music educators, and other musicians from around the county and beyond. And they are busy preparing for their upcoming spring concert. The Sugar Land Winds, a sixty-five piece semiprofessional wind ensemble, was founded in 2016 by Larry Matysiak and Rick Yancey who serve as the ensemble’s conductors. Matysiak has been a music educator for the past 41 years. During his tenure at Clements High School, the band received the highest honors in
the state of Texas, including State Honor Band. He also was Fine Arts Director for Cypress Fairbanks ISD from 2006-2014. He currently resides in Sugar Land with his wife, Mary. Last year he was inducted into the Texas Bandmasters Hall of Fame. Yancey has broad experience teaching band and orchestra in the Fort Bend, Spring Branch, and Houston school districts. His bands received numerous awards and performed at national venues. He is currently director for the Music Across Texas festivals and board member of the Foundation for Musical Excellence. He is an active clinician and UIL judge across the state. His wife, Jill, is also a retired band
director and active adjudicator and clinician. Yancey was inducted into the Texas Bandmasters Hall of Fame this year. The public is invited to a free concert by the Sugar Land Winds on Wednesday, May 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Dunham Theater on the campus of Houston Baptist University (7502 Fondren Road in Houston). Works to be performed include Florentiner March, La Procession du Rocio, Salome: Dance of the Seven Veils, Elegy and Fanfare, and Nessum Dorma. Plans are underway to bring in more guest conductors and soloists. The Sugar Land Winds is non-profit, relying on donations to cover music and expenses. Visit www. sugarlandwinds.com.
Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019
MIKE’S MONOLOGUE
INSURANCE
Wherever it goes
By MICAHEL GRANTO By now, most everybody knows Barbara and I have some history. It began in 1956; sixty-three years ago, that I first met Barbara. She was hostessing a party at her house for some function or other, probably school-related. I was introduced to her in her dining room, near the entrance to the kitchen. She was wearing a dark green and dark red plaid pleated skirt, a solid colored sweater of the same color palette, and a white blouse underneath with a Peter Pan collar. She had cat’seye glasses, and I remember her eyes, bright, shiny, moving all over, catching every detail, smiling at something secret. I wore a bright red Banlon sweater, and when she held a similar party later in the year, I wore it again, and became “the boy in the red sweater.” We were not “an item” during high school, mostly because we moved in very different circles; I was the Italian Catholic boy from the section of town where streets were named after animals, and she was the White, Anglo-Saxon Protestant girl from the section of town where they named the streets after former Presidents. Such were the cultural strictures and mores of that place, at that time. About a decade later, the cultural strictures mores had lightened and loosened some. By now I was a Marine, stationed at Portsmouth Naval Disciplinary Command, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Yes, the dreaded Portsmouth Brig. I worked there, didn’t live there, and it was close enough to get home over a longish weekend. Barb and I found each other again, and I found myself staring into those same, bright, shiny eyes, catching every detail, and this lovely lady, who looked lovely, smelled sensational, and felt fantastic, was actually paying attention to me. How lucky can a jarhead get? I am not sure which of life’s many currents took us apart again. Barbara says she recalls a fight in her parents’ living room where she threw my class ring across the room at me. Mercifully, I recall no such incident. At any rate, the Marine Corps claimed my body for the Vietnam War. Barbara got married to a very nice man. Fast forwarding fifty years found me visiting my parents for their fiftieth anniversary. By then I was divorced, of course, and so was she. My father said, “Mike, you really ought to look up Barbara. She’s aging might gracefully.” Daddy always had a way with words. She ended up joining me in Florida, where I worked at
Granto the time, at the University of Miami. She drove down on her fiftieth birthday. We married, and in 2003, Barbara’s primary care asked her to have an ultrasound. That was how we found our she had stage four cancer; a tumor the size of her fist on her left kidney. I told her then, that “Wherever this goes, it takes both of us.” She asked me what that meant, and I told her that whatever hospitals or operations it took, if she wanted her pillow adjusted, or a glass of ice chips, or her blanket adjusted, all she’d have to do is look to her right, and she’d find my face. We had a very good health insurance plan at the University, and things proceeded quickly. We found, ultimately, that the tumor had adhered to her large intestine. The kidney doctor was on the verge of calling a thoracic surgeon, when he reached out and simply peeled the tumor away. He later said, “Barbara, you really dodged a bullet. This couldn’t have been any worse without being really tragic.” “Wherever this goes, it takes both of us.” We were quite happy about that, and the next several years went by more or less uneventfully, until 2011, when her primary care suggested, almost as an afterthought, that Barb get an ultrasound. The news was not good. Barbara was diagnosed with lung cancer (she hadn’t smoked in over 15 years) and a return of kidney cancer. This is where working at the University was quite fortunate. One doctor picks up his cell phone, calls another, and an hour later we’re in the office of one of the top surgeons at the University. He picks up his cellphone, and half an hour later, we’re joined by a top oncologist. Since lung cancer kills you quicker than kidney cancer, we tackled the lung cancer first, in November 2011. The surgeon removed the upper lobe of her right lung. In March, 2012, she was operated on for kidney cancer, and the surgeon removed half her right kidney. Her daughter Susan came to visit, expecting to stay five days. She stayed eleven weeks. There are things about some mothers and daughters that no guy is ever going to understand; all we can do is wonder at it,
and honor it. “Wherever this goes, it takes both of us.” For the next few years, her little remaining half kidney perked along just fine. It held up through retiring from UM, and moving to Houston. Up until 2016. She had gone into the hospital several times, with bleeding and intense pain, and we were told that the kidney cancer had returned. This was really serious. If she elected to keep the kidney, that pain and bleeding would bring her back to the hospital in a month. If she elected to have it removed, she’d be married to dialysis. She elected to have it removed. She used to say, “What choice do I have? It’s dialysis or death. I’ll take dialysis.” Though it kept her alive, she hated it. She hated the needles, the pain, the huge chunks of her life eaten up tied to a chair. So much of her life seemed out of her control, and painful, but let me tell you, that lady was a Warrior Queen. She fought cancer four times, and she won. It cost her both kidneys and the upper lobe of her right lung. The next three years were not trouble free, but Methodist Sugar Land is an excellent hospital, with very good doctors. Even excellent hospitals, though, have limitations. So do very good doctors. “Wherever this goes, it takes both of us.” Where it took us was room 103 at Houston Hospice, where, at 7:15 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 2019, this lady of quality, this Warrior Queen, this repository of feminine wisdom, this woman who gave so much to so many, (and me most of all) breathed her last. I was holding her hand. I felt her pulse, and then it was just gone. “Wherever this goes, it takes both of us.” I could not heal my wife. I could not be the armored protector, the mighty fortress she needed. All I could do is be there. But I did do that. (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.)
Electrical safety tips
By BASIL HOUSEWRIGHT In today’s modern world, virtually everything that is considered a necessity in the home is powered by electricity. We often take for granted the basic safety, however, bad wiring or defects in the wires can pose a threat to anyone in the house. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 47,700 home fires in the U.S. are caused by electrical failure or malfunction each year. These fires result in $1.4 billion in property damage. Many home fires can be prevented simply by understanding basic electrical hazards like these: Overloaded Electrical Circuits The major cause of residential fires is overloaded electrical circuits. To prevent electrical overloads, do not use multi-outlet converters for appliances. All major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Only plug one heat producing appliance into an outlet at a time. It is important to know that power strips only add additional outlets, but they do not change the amount of power produced to the outlet. Some warning signs of an overloaded circuit are: flickering, blinking or dimming lights warm or discolored wall
Housewright plates mild shock or tingle from appliances, outlets, or wall switches Extension Cords Extension cords can be helpful in delivering power right where you need it, however, it is a temporary solution and is not meant to be used as a long-term extension of your household’s electrical system. With continuous use over time, extension cords can rapidly deteriorate. A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to meet your needs and it may be time to consider adding new outlets to your home. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Check out these extension cord safety tips: Do not run extension cords through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors. If the cord is covered, heat cannot escape. Match the wattage rating on appliances you are using to the cord wattage rating and do
not use a cord that has a lower rating. Ensure the cord or power strip you use is marked for either indoor or outdoor use. Do not nail or staple electrical cords to walls or baseboards. Fuses and Circuit Breakers - Knowing what’s inside your electrical service panel is key. Label panels so you can quickly turn off and restore electricity when needed. Fuses and circuit breakers protect overloaded electrical circuits by interrupting the flow of electricity. There are many variations of circuit breakers that offer different levels of protection. All electrical distribution systems should have an electrical inspection conducted if the home is older than 40 years or has had a major addition added. Rates and availability of homeowner’s insurance coverages are dependent upon homes being well-maintained. Preventative upkeep makes your home a much more acceptable risk to insure. 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.
Fort Bend ISD receives AA+ rating from credit rating agencies resulting in successful bond transactions
Fort Bend ISD is proud to announce successful bond transactions on April 23 will lead to approximately $31 million dollars in interest expense savings. In January 2019, the FBISD Board of Trustees authorized the Administration to pursue the refunding of Series 2009 bonds in an amount not to exceed $150,250,000, as well as provide long-term financing for $150 million of outstanding commercial paper. Bond refinancing (refunding) is an important debt management tool for state and local government issuers. It is typical to execute a bond refunding to achieve interest cost savings, to restructure the stream of debt service payments, or to achieve other policy objectives. A bond refunding is similar to homeowners refinancing their mortgage. On April 23, 2019, the District went to market and refunded $150,250,000 of 2009 This article is in memoriam to Bonds and $100,000,000 of his wife who passed recently. commercial paper that was outstanding at the time of pricing. Fort Bend ISD Chief Financial Officer Steve Bassett
reports the latest transactions will save taxpayers millions of dollars. “The refunding of the 2009 bonds will save the District over $26 million. Several underwriters encouraged the District to refund those bonds before the tax laws changed at the end of 2017. We elected to wait, and our patience saved the district $7 million more than what was projected before the tax laws changed. On the same day, we issued $100 million of variable debt bonds to refund the $100 million of commercial paper outstanding. The District is saving approximately $5 million in interest expense by issuing variable rate debt versus fixed rate debt over the next three years,” said Bassett. The District has been issuing commercial paper since 2016. Utilization of the commercial paper program has saved the District money by paying interest at the short-term interest rates, and waiting as long as possible to issue debt. Through March 31, 2019, the District has saved $8.6 million of interest costs by using the commercial paper program.
In preparations of this week’s bond transactions, Fort Bend ISD was re-rated by both Standard & Poors (S&P) and Fitch, two of the top rating agencies, receiving an AA+ rating. S&P also designated the District’s financial management as “Strong,” moving it from “Good.” “Our commitment to taxpayers is to use their money responsibly, and this includes the debt that they have authorized the District to issue,” said FBISD Board President Jason Burdine. “This will continue to be our focus as we move forward with authorizing new debt as part of the 2018 Bond Program.” The transactions occurred in partnership with the underwriting syndicates led by UBS and Siebert Cisneros and under the guidance of our financial advisor, Hilltop Securities. Other entities in the underwriting syndicate included Piper Jaffrey, Ramirez & Co., and Baird. The transaction will close on May 22, 2019 and the proceeds from the 2009 Refunded Bonds will be in escrow until the August 15, 2019 redemption date.
ing and $3.2 billion, out of a total of about $250 billion, in all funds. The chambers are in agreement on $9 billion to spend on property tax relief and education finance reform. “This process is made easier by the fact that both chambers are prioritizing three key issues, that’s certainly property tax relief, education reform and teacher salary,” said Nelson.
“The good news is that both chambers have demonstrated their commitment to our top priorities.” Still, a number of key differences, such as state spending on health and human services, will have to be resolved before a final version can be presented in each chamber before session ends.
Senate rolls out school finance reform AUSTIN Members of the Senate Education Committee opened hearings Thursday on their plan to reform the way the state pays for public education while providing property tax relief and a pay raise to all Texas teachers. Committee chair and Friendswood Senator Larry Taylor says the bill gets rid of outdated weights and allotments and moves to a model aimed at serving the modern student body. That means getting more resources to districts with high populations of economically disadvantaged students , which Taylor says is both the fastest growing demographic in Texas, as well as the largest, around 60 percent of all pupils. “Unfortunately, historically, that’s also been our least educated,” said Taylor. “So obviously that paradigm cannot continue on that path or we
will not be the Texas in the very near future that we are today.” The bill would raise the basic allotment, the fundamental variable in determining how much money a district is entitled to, by $780, to a new total of $5880. Districts would get more money based not only on how many low-income students they educate, but also the density of economically disadvantaged families in the community served by a district. It would direct more money to early education, including funding for full-day quality pre-K programs, in order to meet critical 3rd grade reading standards. High schools would see a funding increase to improve post-secondary readiness for high school graduates, working to ensure they are fully qualified to enter college, the workforce or the military. There’s additional money for
students with dyslexia and those still learning English, among a number of other funding enhancements. The bill includes a $5000 annual pay raise for teachers, but also an optional teacher effectiveness pay scale that would allow participating districts to pay their best teachers, or those willing to work on the most challenging campuses, more money. For property tax relief, the bill would raise the homestead exemption and compress local school property tax rates by eight cents per dollar in the first year and 15 cents in the second. It would pay for this with a one percent increase in the state sales tax, though lawmakers are also considering a variety of other revenue sources. Additionally, voters would have to approve a constitutional amendment authorizing the sales tax hike for the purposes of property tax reductions.
Though there’s about a month left in the session, Taylor told members that they are going to work judiciously through the process in order to hear input from stakeholders. “This is not going to be a rushed project,” he said. “We’re going to have time to be thoughtful on this and take input from our members and others.” He said he intends to bring up the bill for a committee vote late next week at the earliest. Also this week, legislators began negotiations between the House and Senate over each chamber’s budget proposal. Five Senators, led by Finance chair and Flower Mound Senator Jane Nelson, will work with five representatives to reach a consensus proposal. The two versions before the conference committee are fairly close, only about $400 million apart on state revenue spend-
—By RICHARD LEE
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.
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INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019 • Page 5
NEWS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plans for Harvest Green, Section 20 and Section 24, 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.
Keri Curtis Schmidt graduates from American Leadership Forum Class XLV Keri Curtis Schmidt graduated from the American Leadership Forum’s Class XLV at the commencement ceremony held last week. Keri is the President & CEO of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. The American Leadership Forum (ALF) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to join and strengthen diverse leaders to serve the common good. For more than 37 years, ALF has supported a network of 1,300 Senior Fellows who strengthen and broaden the social fabric of our community. ALF was founded to create a regional network of diverse senior-level leaders across private, public and nonprofit sectors committed to building a stronger community. Each year, established leaders from various sectors in the community participate in a yearlong, national caliber leadership development program that allows participants to broaden their perspectives, explore differences, build relationships and engage in dialogue around some of our most challenging issues. Senior Fellows represent a broad range of leadership positions reflecting social, ethnic, gender, geographic, political, religious and work sector diversity. Selection is based on demonstrated outstanding leadership and potential for growth, integrity, professional stature, commitment to the community beyond their profession, willingness to learn, to challenge assumptions, and to increase understanding and awareness of others. ALF curriculum builds deep, lasting and trusting relationships, fosters appreciation of differences, teaches and builds dialogue skills and creates an environment that is highly conducive to appreciative inquiry, emergent change and impactful collaboration. For more information, please visit alfhouston.org.
IRONMAN and Memorial Hermann extend partnership agreement IRONMAN, a Wanda Sports Holdings company, announced today a multi-year renewal with Memorial Hermann Health System to continue the co-branding of the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN® Sports Medicine Institute. In addition, the renewal also extends title sponsor rights for the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN® 70.3® Texas triathlon, Memorial Hermann IRONMAN® Texas North American Championship triathlon where Memorial Hermann will be the Official Medical Provider. “We are very pleased to be able to continue our partnership with Memorial Hermann and the co-branding of the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute,” said Stuart Selig, Executive Vice President of Global Partnerships for IRONMAN. “This is an important partnership that creates some unique synergies across the brands that not only reaches the local community but the athletes that compete.” The Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute is a comprehensive sports medicine clinic providing elite care for athletes of all ages and skill levels. The institute is based in Houston, Texas, serving the community with locations in the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, Memorial City Medical Center, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands. The Institute brings together highly trained experts in sports science, orthopedics, orthopedic surgery, sports physical therapy, human performance, strength and conditioning and sports nutrition to help athletes of all ages and abilities prevent injury, recover from injury and improve performance to reach their personal athletic goals. The Institute offers comprehensive human performance testing services as well. “The Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute’s brand carries a lot of weight with professional and recreational athletes in the Greater Houston area,” said Tim Couture, Vice President of the Orthopedic Service Line at Memorial Hermann Health System. “The Institute’s several locations have become pillars in the community, known for the innovative care provided to athletes of all ages. We are honored to continue partnering with the IRONMAN organization so that we can provide a place for athletes to continue reaching untapped potential and return to sport effectively.” Since the inception of this partnership between Memorial Hermann and IRONMAN, the Sports Medicine Institute collaboration has enabled Memorial Hermann to expand its current offerings to include cross-sport research to improve athletic performance and recovery and reduce injuries, as well as conducting new research protocols that examine endurance athletes to determine how their preparation and training regimens can benefit athletes in all sports, including endurance sports, football, soccer and baseball. CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Place 2 of Harris County, Texas on October 31, 2007 in cause numbered CV12C0059474 styled Bluebonnet Financial Assets vs. Danielle T Graves aka Danielle T Bradley, in which a judgment was rendered on October 31, 2007 in favor of Bluebonnet Financial Assets for the sum of Eighteen Thousand Six Hundred Sixty Two Dollars and Thirty Three Cents ($18,662.33); 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 April 10, 2019 and will on May 7, 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 Danielle T Graves aka Danielle T Bradley to and in the following described Real Property: Long Meadow Farms, SECTION Forty Three (43), Block One (1), Lot Three (3) AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, More Commonly Know as 20802 Briar Vista Way, Richmond, Tx 77407 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of Bluebonnet Financial Assets Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG 1ST FLR MEETING ROOM 301 JACKSON , RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: May 7, 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 am BY: Deputy S. Steele TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas
NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 434TH DlSTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on April 3, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT # 15, VS. HUONG BUl, ET AL in Cause# 16DCV-234234 and to me as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, which is the first Tuesday of said month at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 30 I Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 77469-3108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 4277020010170907 LOT 17. IN BLOCK 1 OF KENSINGTON AT RIVERSTONE SECTION 2. AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN/UNDER PLAT NO. 20130228 OF THE MAP/PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on April 4, 2019 as the property of HUONG BUI, BINH LE to satisfy a judgment amounting to $20,783.92, 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 FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE, AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 4, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
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, May 21, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plans for Aliana, Section 51 and Section 62, 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.
Submitted by,
Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
Keri Schmidt is standing sixth from right.
Bill Parish to entertain Loving Friends
Loving Friends will meet for dinner and entertainment on Tuesday, May 21 at Quail Valley City Cr., 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City, arrival time 5 p.m. Bill Parish, a very talented musician who hails from Louisiana but resides in Dickinson, will entertain the group. His musical talents include playing electric and acoustic guitar, bass, harmonica, and keyboards. Bill has played lead guitar for Randy Travis and opened for Ray Price. Loving Friends would like to invite those in area who have lost their spouses but NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 434TH DlSTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on April 3, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND COUNTY, ET AL vs. JOSH WlNG, AKA JOSHUA ALAN WING, ET AL in Cause # 16-DCV-236428 and to me as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, which is the first Tuesday of said month at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 30 I Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 77469-3108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 2278100020190914 Lot 19 in Block 2 of Cinco Ranch Southwest, Section 10, a subdivision in Fort Bend County, Texas according to the map or plat thereof recorded in Plat No. 20100153 of the Plat Records of Fort Bend County, Texas. Levied on April 4, 2019 as the property of JOSH WING AKA JOSHUA ALAN WING KATIE WING AKA KATIE MARIE WING CINCO RANCH RESIDENTIAL ASSOCIATION II, INC to satisfy a judgment amounting to $21 ,038.59, 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 CINCO SOUTHWEST MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT # 2, FORT BEND DRAINAGE AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 4, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
want to move on with their lives with like minded friends in a social environment, not a grief support group. The cost for dinner and entertainment is $24 inclusive, paid at the door in the club’s Bluebonnet room. Other monthly activities include lunches at area restaurants and pokeno. Interested prospective members or want to attend as a guest, please call 281-2083124 for a dinner reservation. New members always greeted with a warm welcome. NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 458TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on April 3, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. NANCY PO CHEUNG, ET AL in Cause #18-DCY-251183 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, 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: 8100020020560907 LOT 56, BLOCK 2. TOWNEWEST, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN VOLUME 20, PAGE 9, OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on April 4, 2019 as the property of NANCY PO CHEUNG, TOWNEWEST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION. INC to satisfy a judgment amounting to $6,627.48, 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 FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT AND FORT BEND COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT # 05. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 4, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 434TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on April 3, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT VS SAVITRI WASHlNGTON in Cause# 17-DCV245446 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room. 30 I 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: 28300400 I 0020/ 28300400 I 0020907 LOT 2 IN BLOCK I OF EAGLEWOOD SECTION FOUR (4), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO(S). 2 118/B AND 2119/A, BOTH OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on April 4, 2019 as the property of SAVITRI WASHINGTON to satisfy a judgment amounting to $13,887.34, 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 FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT; NORTH MISSION GLEN MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT; WEST KEEGANS BAYOU IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT, AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 4, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF EDDIE ARTHUR HARVEY AND JESSIE MARIE HARVEY, 5706 W RIDGECREEK DRIVE HOUSTON TX 77053 NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being May 20, 2019 a default judgment may be taken against you. The case is presently pending before the 458TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 17-DCV-241085 and is styled: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2006-NC3 Asset Pass-Through Certificates v. The Estate of Eddie Arthur Harvey, The Estate of Jessie Marie Harvey, Rose Harvey, Carlton Ballard, and Unknown Heirs at Law of Eddie Arthur Harvey and Jessie Marie Harvey In Re: 5706 W. Ridgecreek Dr., Houston TX 77053 The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: ROBERT Y PETERSON ALDRIDGE PITE LLP 701 N POST OAK ROAD SUITE 205 HOUSTON TX 77024 713-293-3618 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: THIS IS A PETITION FOR JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE OF REAL PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS 5706 W RIDGECREEK DR., HOUSTON, TX 77053. THE PETITION ALLEGES THAT THE RECORD OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY, EDDIE ARTHUR HARVEY AND JESSIE HARVEY ARE DECEASED AND THAT SOME OF THEIR HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES ARE UNKNOWN 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 4th day of April, 2019. DISTRICT CLERK BEVERLEY MCGREW WALKER FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS· Physical Address: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 31004 Richmond, Texas 77469 Mailing Address: 301 Jackson St. Richmond, Texas 77469 By: Deputy District Clerk ASHLEY ALANIZ Telephone: (281) 633-7616
NOTICE OF CONSTABLES 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 April 11, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT VS ANGELA LOUISE PROSSER, ET AL in Cause# 18-DCV -249165 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, 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 1: GEO: 3780070010080907 LOT 8, IN BLOCK 1, THE GROVE, SECTION 7, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE 6321A AND B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on April 15, 2019 as the property of ANGELA LOUISE PROSSER, ARGENT MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. to satisfy a judgment amounting to $14,112.87, 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 FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT; PECAN GROVE MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND, AND FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT; FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 15, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
NOTICE OF CONSTABLES SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 400TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on April 3, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT VS DEBORAH YU, ET AL in Cause# I8DCV-247960 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 7th day of May, 2019, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room. 30 I Jackson Street, Richmond,Texas, 77469-3108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: 8100010173900/ 8100010173900907 LOT 39, IN BLOCK 17, OF TOWNEWEST, SECTION I, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 16, PAGE I, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on April 4, 2019 as the property of DEBORAH YU, BELINDA POLA YU, TANG CHIH WEI, TOWNWEST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC to satisfy a judgment amounting to $ 10,511.58, 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 FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT; FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT # 2, FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND, AND FORT BEND COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICE DISTRICT #5. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on April 4, 2019. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332
INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019 • Page 6
CAUSE NO. 18-CCV-063801 THE STATE OF TEXAS TO: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CARNEAL NICHOLS, DECEASED, WHOSE NAMES & WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN, DEFENDANT, GREETING: YOU (AND EACH OF YOU) ARE HEREBY COMMANDED TO APPEAR before the Honorable County Court at Law 4 of Fort Bend County, Texas, at the Courthouse being located at the Fort Bend County Justice Center, 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, in the City of Richmond, Fort Bend County, Texas, by filing a written answer at or before 10 o’clock A.M. of the first Monday after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being the 3rd day of June, 2019, to Plaintiffs Petition filed in said Court, on the 13th day of December, 2018, in this Cause, numbered 18-CCV-063801 on the docket of said Court and styled: State of Texas vs The Unknown Heirs of Carneal Nichols, Deceased, whose names & whereabouts unknown, Discover Bank, Dexter Reshard Nichols, The State of Texas, through its Department of Health and Human Services allegations as shown in said petition now on file in the Fort Bend County Clerk’s Office. The officer executing this Writ shall promptly serve the same, according to requirements of law and the mandates hereof, and make due return as the law directs. ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at office, this the 17th day of April, 2019. LAURA RICHARD, COUNTY CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 301 JACKSON, SUITE 101 RICHMOND, TX 77469-3108 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 the first Monday after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. The name and address of the Plaintiffs attorney is: James Holian Assistant Attorney General Transportation Division PO BOX 12548 Austin TX 78711-2548 512-936-1192
CONSTABLE SALE Notice is hereby Given, that by virtue of a certain ORDER OF SALE Issued by the Clerk of the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND County, on the 1ST day of APRIL, 2019, in a certain cause number 14DCV-218369 wherein AVALON AT SEVEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff, and DALE A. LANGHAM defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 26TH day of AUGUST, 2015, in favor of the said plaintiff AVALON AT SEVEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. against said defendant DALE A. LANGHAM, for the sum of $5,363.21; AS THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT PROPERTY THAT IS SECURED BY THE PLAINTIFF’S LIEN ON THE PROPERTY AS OF THE DATE THE MOTION FOR DEFAULT WAS FILED; REASONABLE ATTORNEY FEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,285.50; $450.00 IN DEED RESTRICTION FINES AS THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT OF THE 23102 STARLIGHT BEACH RD., KATY TX 77494 (PROPERTY) THAT IS NOT SECURED BY THE PLAINTIFF’S LIEN ON THE PROPERTY AS OF THE DATE THE MOTION FOR DEFAULT WAS FILED; ADDITIONAL ATTORNEY REASONABLE FEES AND COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,800.00; COSTS OF COURT IN THE AMOUNT OF $312.55 AND POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON ALL AMOUNTS AWARDED IN THIS JUDGMENT, INCLUDING ATTORNEY FEES, FROM THE DATE THIS JUDGMENT IS SIGNED UNTIL FULLY PAID., TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $312.55, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 7TH day of MAY, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of DALE A. LANGHAM in and to the following described Real property, levied upon as the property of DALE A. LANGHAM to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT FIFTEEN (15), IN BLOCK FOUR (4), OF AVALON AT SEVEN MEADOWS, SECTION FIVE (5), AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT NO. 20050097, OF THE MAP/ PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 23102 STARLIGHT BEACH RD., KATY TEXAS 77494 DATE OF SALE: MAY 7, 2019 TIME OF SALE: APPROX. 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1ST Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Tx 77469 TERMS OF SALE: CASH CREDIT- $0.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment for $5,363.21 ; AS THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT PROPERTY THAT IS SECURED BY THE PLAINTIFF’S LIEN ON THE PROPERTY AS OF THE DATE THE MOTION FOR DEFAULT WAS FILED; REASONABLE ATTORNEY FEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,285.50; $450.00 IN DEED RESTRICTION FINES AS THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT OF THE 23102 STARLIGHT BEACH RD., KATY TX 77494 (PROPERTY) THAT IS NOT SECURED BY THE PLAINTIFF’S LIEN ON THE PROPERTY AS OF THE DATE THE MOTION FOR DEFAULT WAS FILED; ADDITIONAL ATTORNEY REASONABLE FEES AND COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,800.00; COSTS OF COURT IN THE AMOUNT OF $312.55 AND POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON ALL AMOUNTS AWARDED IN THIS JUDGMENT, INCLUDING ATTORNEY FEES, FROM THE DATE THIS JUDGMENT IS SIGNED UNTIL FULLY PAID., TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $312.55 dollars, in favor of AVALON AT SEVEN MEADOWS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC together with the costs of said suit, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332 DEPUTY
AUTOMOBILE: Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
CONSTABLE SALE Notice is hereby Given, that by virtue of a certain ORDER OF SALE Issued by the Clerk of the 240TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND County, on the 2ND day of APRIL, 2019, in a certain cause number 17-DCV-239967 wherein EAGLEWOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff , and RUSSELL A. SMITH AND VICKY J. SMITH, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 22ND day of JANUARY, 2019, in favor of the said plaintiff EAGLEWOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC. against said defendant RUSSELL A. SMITH AND VICKY J. SMITH, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, for the sum of $7,668.05 AS FOLLOWS: PAST DUE ASSESSMENTS $2,376.00; INTEREST $828.56, LEGAL FEES $3,798.01, COSTS/EXPENSES $665.48 ; ORDERED THAT SHOULD PLAINTIFF BE REQUIRED TO PURSUE POST-JUDGMENT FORECLOSURE, PLAINTIFF SHALL RECOVER FROM DEFENDANTS $1,500.00 IN ATTORNEY’S FEES AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $0.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 7TH day of MAY, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of RUSSELL A. SMITH AND VICKY J. SMITH, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of RUSSELL A. SMITH AND VICKY J. SMITH, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT FIFTEEN (15), BLOCK TWO (2) OF EAGLEWOOD SECTION SIX (6), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT RECORDS THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NOS. 2291/A AND 2291/B OF THE MAP RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, AND MORE COMMONLY DESCRIBED AS 9506 FLYING EAGLE COURT, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77083 (THE “PROPERTY”) DATE OF SALE: MAY 7, 2019 TIME OF SALE: APPROX. 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1ST Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Tx 77469 TERMS OF SALE: CASH CREDIT- $0.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judg ment for $7,668.05 AS FOLLOWS: PAST DUE ASSESSMENTS $2,376.00; INTEREST $828.56, LEGAL FEES $3,798.01, COSTS/ EXPENSES $665.48 ; ORDERED THAT SHOULD PLAINTIFF BE REQUIRED TO PURSUE POST-JUDGMENT FORECLOSURE, PLAINTIFF SHALL RECOVER FROM DEFENDANTS $1,500.00 IN ATTORNEY’S FEES AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $0.00 dollars, in favor of EAGLEWOOD HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC together with the costs of said suit, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332 DEPUTY
CONSTABLE SALE Notice is hereby Given, that by virtue of a certain ORDER OF SALE Issued by the Clerk of the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND County, on the 3rd day of APRIL, 2019, in a certain cause number 18-DCV-248269 wherein LAKES OF BELLA TERRA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff , and MINDI A. LITTLE defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 12TH day of OCTOBER, 2018, in favor of the said plaintiff LAKES OF BELLA TERRA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. against said defendant MINDI A. LITTLE, for the sum of JUDGMENT IN THE PRINCIPAL SUM OF $2,713.82 ; TOGETHER WITH INTEREST THEREON AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM FROM THE DATE OF JUDGMENT UNTIL PAID; THE ADDITIONAL SUM OF $2,591.20 FOR ATTORNEY’S FEES; ALL COSTS OF COURT HEREIN EXPENDED AND SAME SHALL BE JUDGED AGAINST THE DEFENDANT, MINDI A. LITTLE; POSTJUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT AWARDED HEREIN FROM THE DATE HEREOF UNTIL PAID, TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $322.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 7TH day of MAY, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of MINDI A. LITTLE in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of MINDI A. LITTLE to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 32, BLOCK 1, LAKES OF BELLA TERRA SECTION 16, AN ADDITION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT NO. 20120110 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (THE “PROPERTY”) DATE OF SALE: MAY 7, 2019 TIME OF SALE: APPROXIMATELY 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1ST Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Tx 77469 TERMS OF SALE: CASH CREDIT- $0.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment for JUDGMENT IN THE PRINCIPAL SUM OF $2,713.82 ; TOGETHER WITH INTEREST THEREON AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM FROM THE DATE OF JUDGMENT UNTIL PAID; THE ADDITIONAL SUM OF $2,591.20 FOR ATTORNEY’S FEES; ALL COSTS OF COURT HEREIN EXPENDED AND SAME SHALL BE JUDGED AGAINST THE DEFENDANT, MINDI A. LITTLE; POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT AWARDED HEREIN FROM THE DATE HEREOF UNTIL PAID, TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $322.00 dollars, in favor of LAKES OF BELLA TERRA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. together with the costs of said suit, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332 DEPUTY
By BARBARA FULENWIDER Thirty-five years after the Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 1984, it has evolved to offer more creature comforts, safety and techology while not losing its body-onframe SUV DNA. The 4Runner TRD Pro was the test drive and returned in 2019 with some significant changes that include 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass Shocks for impressive off-road performance that doesn’t sacrifice on-road handling. The 4Runner TRD Pro also got a TRD Roof Rack, standard JBL Premium audio, moonroof and an updated front skid plate with red TRD lettering. The 4Runner offers the choice of 2WD, part-time 4WD with a 2-speed transfer case, or, in the Limited, fulltime multi-mode 4WD with a 2-speed transfer case and locking center differential. All four-wheel-drive models are 9.6 inches off the ground and THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF WILLIAMSON CITATION BY PUBLICATION t NO. 18-119-AC3 TO: UNKNOWN FATHER and to all whom it may concern. GREETING: 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 THE MONDAY NEXT FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF TWENTY DAYS AFTER YOU WERE SERVED THIS CITATION AND PETITION, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT FOR THE RELIEF DEMANDED IN THE PETITION MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU. The ORIGINAL PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND ADOPTION of, Petitioner, was filed in the said Court of Williamson County, Texas, on the 15th day of October, 2018, against UNKNOWN FATHER, Respondent, numbered 18-119AC3 and entitled: IN THE INTEREST OF K.J.S., A CHILD. The suit requests THAT THE COURT GRANT RELIEF REQUESTED IN PETITION. The Court has the authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS AND GRANTING ADOPTION OF A CHILD, which will be binding on you . ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at office, on this the 10th day of April, 2019 . ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER: Leslie David Romo I 02 West Morrow Street, Suite 202 Georgetown TX 78628 LISA DAVID, DISTRICT CLERK Williams County, Texas P.O. Box 24, 405 M.L.K Street George Town, Texas 78627-0024 Angela Clerk, Deputy CONSTABLE SALE Notice is hereby Given, that by virtue of a certain ORDER OF SALE Issued by the Clerk of the 268TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND County, on the 8TH day of MARCH, 2019, in a certain cause number 17-DCV-246532 wherein GRAND MEADOW HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff , and FREDESWINDA R. DEGUIA defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 12TH day of MARCH, 2018, in favor of the said plaintiff GRAND MEADOW HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. against said defendant FREDESWINDA R. DEGUIA, for the sum of $2,619.31 AS PAST-DUE UNPAID ASSESSMENTS, INTEREST, LATE CHARGES, AND COSTS ; 2,842.10 AS ATTORNEY’S FEES; ALL COSTS OF COURT; RECOVER POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT AWARDED HEREIN FROM THE DATE HEREOF UNTIL PAID., TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $326.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 7TH day of MAY, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of FREDESWINDA R. DEGUIA in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of FREDESWINDA R. DEGUIA to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 1, BLOCK 1 OF GRAND MEADOW SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER PLAT NO. 20050246 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (THE “PROPERTY”) DATE OF SALE: MAY 7, 2019 TIME OF SALE: APPROX. 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1ST Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Tx 77469 TERMS OF SALE: CASH CREDIT- $500.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judg ment for $2,619.31 AS PAST-DUE UNPAID ASSESSMENTS, INTEREST, LATE CHARGES, AND COSTS ; 2,842.10 AS ATTORNEY’S FEES; ALL COSTS OF COURT; RECOVER POST-JUDGMENT INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM ON THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT AWARDED HEREIN FROM THE DATE HEREOF UNTIL PAID., TOGETHER WITH THE INTEREST THAT MAY BE DUE THEREON, AND FURTHER THE SUM OF $326.00 dollars, in favor of GRAND MEADOW HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. together with the costs of said suit, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. WAYNE K. THOMPSON Constable Pct. 3 KATY, Texas By DAVID RIVERA #1332 DEPUTY
come with a full-size spare tire. 4Runners are all equipped with projector beam headlights and LED rear combination lamps. The SR5 and TRD models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels that are available in 6-spoke (SR5, SR5 Premium), 7-spoke (TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium), or a TRD alloy painted matte black (TRD Pro). The TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium are distinguished by their color-keyed bumpers and overfenders, hood scoop, and silver painted front and rear bumper accents. The top-of-line Limited is the only 4Runner with a chrome-plated grille insert and exterior trim, and its 20inch machine-finished wheels and P245/60R20 tires are exclusive to the model. The 4Runner’s 270-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 routes its stout 278 lb.-ft. of torque through a 5-speed ECT-i automatic transmission with sequential shift mode. All 4Runner models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, with a maximum 500-pound tongue weight. The 2WD models feature a standard automatic limited slip differential. This function of the traction control system allows some wheel slippage to help the vehicle dig out from sand or snow. The available part-time 4WD system uses active traction control and bolsters off-road capability with a two-speed transfer case with selectable low-range.
The 4Runner is fortified by standard hill-start assist and downhill assist control. The 4Runner TRD Off-Road, Off-Road Premium, and TRD Pro models add an electroniclocking rear differential and Toyota’s crawl control. As conditions on the trail change, the 4Runner TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and TRD Pro driver can adapt the vehicle with the multi-terrain select system. A dial is used to select the mode that matches prevailing terrain and conditions. The TRD Pro takes the 4Runner’s off-road performance to the next level with 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass Shocks. The front Fox shocks are paired with TRD-tuned coil springs for an additional 1 inch of front lift for improved trail-tackling capability. Out back, 2.5-inch Fox shocks are employed and also feature remote reservoirs to maintain damping performance. The TRD Pro series has a unique front grille, black bumper accents, TRD shift knob, special badging and a new TRD roof rack exclusively on the TRD Pro. It also got a standard moonroof and JBL Premium Audio for 2019. With the second-row seats in use, the cargo area offers up to 47.2 cu. ft. of carrying space. Folding the second row opens up space to 89.7 cu. ft. of cargo area. The available pull-out cargo deck can carry up to 440 pounds to make loading and unloading heavy items easier.
The 2019 Toyota test drive was the 4Runner TRD Pro and it offers an array of Entune Multimedia system choices. They are Entune Premium JBL audio with Integrated navigation and Entune App Suite that includes 6.1-in. high-resolution touch-screen with split-screen display, AM/ FM cache radio, HD Radio and CD player. Also, 15 JBL GreenEdge speakers with subwoofer amplifier, auxiliary port, USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and control, advanced voice recognition, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology, Siri Eyes Free, HD Radio Predictive Traffic and Doppler Weather overlay, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio with 3-month All Access trial. The 4Runner’s standard safety system includes vehicle stability control with traction control with 4WD, an anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and brakeoverride system. The 4Runner TRD Pro has an MSRP of $46,415. Options on the test drive included runing boards paint protection, and a hitch ball mount that increased the MSRP to $48,260 with delivery and handling fee. If you like off-roading as well as in-town driving the TRD Pro should definitely include a test drive. It’s a handsome machine inside and out that can be a whole lot of fun.
Sienna Plantation TexFest Opens Heritage Park May 18
“TexFestivities” and 10 new model homes will mark the grand opening of Heritage Park, a new neighborhood in Sienna Plantation, noon-4 p.m. Saturday, May 18. The free Heritage Park TexFest grand opening celebration, 8610 Azalea Crossing Court, offers the public an opportunity to tour models showcasing designs from the $220,000s to the $440,000s. Activities include a mini Ferris wheel and Dixie Twister chair swing, as well as stilt walkers, face painters, inflatables, DJ beats, food trucks and more. Learn more at www.siennaplantation.com.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers® — Six Week Course
Caregivers, people who take on the selfless role of caring for a loved one, have the great responsibility of making sure their loved one’s basic needs are met, which requires work and dedication. Sometimes, however, it is the caregiver who needs help. By taking care of their own needs, caregivers can better care for those who depend on them. Powerful Tools for Caregivers® is an educational program offered at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital to help family and friends caring for adults with long-term health conditions. The free course consists of six weekly classes, each focusing on different tools that help guide them through the caregiving journey. Caregivers will learn about setting goals, staying motivated and dealing with feelings of anger, guilt and depression, building confidence and ability to cope with the demands of caregiving. The six-week course begins Tuesday, July 9 and runs through Tuesday, Aug. 13. Classes are held each Tuesday from 3–4:30 p.m. in the Brazos Pavilion Chapel, first floor, at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. Registration is required. For more information or to register, contact the Spiritual Care & Values Integration Department at snbowman@houstonmethodist.org or 281.274.7164. Seating is limited.
INDEPENDENT • MAY 1, 2019 • Page 7
NEWS
Katy Christian Ministries’ 20th Golf Tournament May 6
Katy Christian Ministries (KCM) will host their 20th Annual Golf Tournament May 6th, 2019 at Weston Lakes Country Club in Fulshear. Proceeds from the event will benefit the programs and services that KCM provides free of charge to families in crisis within a 12 zip code area in the Katy/West Houston area. The event has a goal of raising $100,000. So far, 61% of that goal has been reached. The Title sponsor and “Anniversary Angel” is Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers and Fort Bend Charities. Parkway Fellowship is the Platinum Sponsor, and BGE is the Double Eagle Sponsor. These sponsors are all longtime supporters of KCM. The tournament will kick off the morning of May 6th with check-in beginning at 10:30 a.m, lunch at 11:30 a.m, and tee time at 1 p.m. Following the tournament there will be a steak dinner
and awards provided for the players. The event features approximately 34 4-player teams on an 18-hole course, hole in one, raffle prizes, silent auction, a putting contest, Bubba Drive, inside the circle, and closest to the pin games. The Hole in One prize includes a 2019 Chevy Cruze sponsored by Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land, and the Raffle Prize is a 21.5” iMac Computer. Raffle ticket holders do not need to be present to win. A 4-player team is $700 and individual tickets are $175. This year, players registering before April 20th will receive an anniversary edition golf polo. Sponsorships are still available. Ways to participate: become a sponsor, register for the event, donate items or gift cards for the silent auction, donate online. The event website is: www.ktcm.org/golf. “Your participation in this event will provide KCM with
2019-20 Fort Bend Christian Academy cheer squad
the means to help families who really need it,” says George Hargett, Golf Committee Chair and KCM Board Member. “We take our mission to ‘transform lives’ seriously and work hard to be good stewards of your financial gifts. $0.89 cents of every dollar goes back into programs for families.” For more information about the tournament, to register, or to purchase raffle tickets, visit www.ktcm.org/golf . Contact kathrine.patterson@ktcm.org or 281.391.5261 x4032. Katy Christian Ministries is a Social Services 501(c)3 organization that has been serving local families for 35 years. Born during a time of financial recession and the need for Top L-R: Elizabeth Ingraham, Lauren Ramirez, Mandy Kamp, Hailey Hendershot, Nina Singleton; services to families struggling Bottom L-R: Chase Hubbard, Jalynn Gerard, Hannah Potter, Annie Matthews - Captain, Paige financially, KCM has grown Estes - Captain, Maddie Roberts, Naviah Dixon. Not pictured: Julia Webster & Kiley Blanchard to include a holistic model of services to families in need, helping them regain hope and self-sufficiency. More info can be found at www.ktcm.org.
Players enjoy a steak dinner post-tournament in 2018.
Thai Fruit-Carving Demonstration @ George Memorial Library
Fort Bend Education Foundation 2019 Schlumberger Education Expedition
On Saturday, April 6th, the Fort Bend Education Foundation held its 16th Annual Schlumberger Education Expedition bike ride. As a result of this successful BP MS 150 recommended ride, the Foundation raised over $36,000 benefiting the Foundation’s programs which provide opportunities to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all Fort Bend ISD students through its Grants to Teachers and Schools programs. Rest Stops and Lunch were staffed by volunteers including teachers and students from FBISD schools who were vying for the Best Rest Stop award. Clements High School Interact Club won the award. Go Rangers! At the end of the ride, riders were able to enjoy a much deserved lunch catered by Rudy’s BBQ and Subway. First Row (l-r) Michelle Chen, Bridgette Liu, Kathryn Chen, Christina Chan; 2nd Row: Christine Yuan, Karen Zhou, Anika Sinha, Nikki Rad; 3rd Row: Leslie Mui, James Dong, Aaron Guo, Leilani Lai, Emily Nguyen, Daniel Wang, David Yang, Mrs. Tara Mitchell, Jonathan Yuan; 4th Row: Wallace Chen, Jessica Liu, Ilham Aryawan, Daniel Chang, Jacob Yin, Samuel Wong, Kyle Nguyen, Bruce Feng.
Room of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The program is presented by Sucharee Yossunthorn, who attended the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas and received professional training for carving in Bangkok, Thailand. Yossunthorn will discuss the history of this traditional Thai art, and will demonstrate how to carve colorful fruits and vegetables into exquisite flowers, leaves, and garnishes that are suitable for special events. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call George Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library will present a demonstration of “Edible Memorial Library at 281-342Centerpieces: Thai Fruit-Carving” on Saturday, May 18, from 10:30 a.m to 1 p.m, in the Meeting 4455.
PLANTATION at Quail Valley Active Senior Living; Embracing the lives of Seniors 55 and Better March Madness $399 move in special
“Aggies Selflessly Serving In Shaping Tomorrow” raise autism awareness. Texas A&M A.S.S.I.S.T. “Aggies Selflessly Serving In Shaping Tomorrow” lived up to their credo and provided an inclusive day of fun, games, crafts, activities and acceptance for children of all abilities, to raise autism awareness. Nearly 70 college students held a free “Pizza in the Park” at Meadows Place, McGrath Park, and then supported the annual, eco-friendly Hope For Three Car Wash for Kids! “Mattress Mack” generously provided overnight accommodations at the gorgeous Gallery Furniture store on West Grand Parkway, Richmond.
2815 Cypress Point Dr, Missouri City, TX 77459 www. plantationqv.com
Phone: (281) 208-4470
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NEWS
Final preparations underway for UP, Up and Away Gala!
Special Education Teacher receives Ashley HomeStore’s Red Apple Award Dickinson Elementary Special Education teacher Tierra Shirley, known for her dedicated efforts to help students with behavioral issues, has been recognized by Ashley HomeStore with a Red Apple Award, a $250 cash prize and a $2,500 check in her name to refurnish the school’s teacher lounge. “Beyond surprised,” said Tierra as she fought back tears during the presentation of her award during a live segment on KHOU-TV’s Great Day Houston. The lead teacher for Dickinson Elementary’s PASS (Positive Approach to Student Success) program, Tierra was nominated by Kimberly Moeller, mother of a current Dickinson Elementary kindergarten student. “Her students love her, my son loves her and she has made all the difference in our lives,” wrote Kimberly in her nomination of Tierra. “Thanks to Tierra, my son is successful and he is loving school.” Brittany Graham, community specialist with Ashley HomeStore, says the home furnishings retailer will collaborate with Dickinson Elementary administrators to design its refurnished teacher lounge in order to create a welcoming and relaxing setting. “Teachers like Tierra are the difference makers in the communities we serve,” says Graham. “She’s a special teacher who means everything to these very special children.” Dickinson Elementary, part of Lamar CISD, is located at 7110 Greatwood Parkway. To nominate a deserving teacher for a KHOU Red Apple Award, go to www.khou.com/RedAppleAward.
Shown L to R with their team basket are: Child Advocates of Fort Bend CASA Team members Renee Lukefahr, Alli Waterwall, Metoyer Martin, Leroy Hodge, April Shaver, Ally Ferrante and Casey Davis. At front, Lindsey Castellanos tests out the Herman Miller Magus Spun Chair, which is also featured in the auction. Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Gala Committee is busy with final preparations for the agency’s 19th annual Gala “Up, Up and Away” on May 4, 2019 at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. “The Gala committee has put together another lively and elegant evening for guests this year,” stated Development Officer and event organizer Lisa Moore. “When we open the doors on Saturday evening, guests will be engulfed in a sea of color and transported to a hot air balloon festival.” Auction offerings include a South African photo safari, Best of H-Town package including Diamond Club seats behind home plate at a Houston Astros game, one week
stay at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, a land and air hunt package, numerous home accessories and furs from Woody’s Furs. In addition, we have a wine pull, Kendra Scott jewelry pull, fine dinner and late-night dancing with the band Chicken and Waffles Music. For $100 anyone can purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win an exclusive Chef Experience and Dinner for 8 people at Steak 48 in Houston, complete with sommelier pre-selected wines! The Exchange Club of Sugar Land is this year’s Moonlight Presenting Sponsor. Michele Fisher will serve as the evening’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/sponsorshipopportunities/ or contact Lisa Moore at 281-344-5108 or lmoore@cafb.org. Seats for this fabulous, fun event are still available. Can’t make the Gala? All is not lost. You can bid online for silent auction items beginning on April 29 or purchase a raffle ticket. For informa-
Ashley HomeStore’s Brittany Graham (center) with Red Apple award winner Tierra Shirley (second from left) along with (l. to r.) Christina Kooker of KHOU-TV’s Great Day Houston, Dickinson Elementary Principal Dr. Karen Mumphord, parent Kimberly Moeller and her son Marshall. tion or to purchase seats go to www.cafb.org or contact Lisa Moore at lmoore@cafb.org or 281-344-5108. To participate in the online auction or purchase a raffle ticket, go to https://cafb2019.
EARLY VOTING: APRIL 22 - 30 ND
Naushad Kermally has consistently stood out in this campaign cycle to be honest and independent. Naushad has the ideas, leader servant principles, and fresh enthusiasm needed in the coming years. Naushad is his own man - not beholden to any political party or group and will put your concerns and the concerns of the District 2 residents at the forefront of every decision. He is the most qualified candidate to represent District 2 on City Council. —Harish Jajoo
TH
givesmart.com. 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
Exchange Club of Sugar Land, OCuSOFT, Inc. NOV, Sysco and many other companies and individuals in making a difference for children in Fort Bend County.
ELECTION DAY: MAY 4TH LIVES IN SUGAR LAND Resident of Sugar Land for over 20 years Married 23 years Three children born and raised in Sugar Land WORKS IN SUGAR LAND 1998 started as an ER Nurse at Methodist Hospital Sugar Land Currently an Executive VP at a wireless company in Sugar Land SERVES IN SUGAR LAND
Former Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo introduces Kermally to the community at the Pallods’ residence.
I wholeheartedly endorse Naushad Kermally for the Sugar Land City Council Dist.
Child Advocates of Fort Bend - Board of Directors City of Sugar Land - Sugar Land 101 Graduate City of Sugar Land - Citizens Police Academy Graduate City of Sugar Land - Ethics Review Board City of Sugar Land - Zoning Board of Adjustments City of Sugar Land - Task Force for Parks Bond Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Program Graduate Former Neighborhood Delegate
2 seat. He is a well-rounded personality and has diligently worked hard over the years to equip himself adequately to run for this office. I have no doubt that he will represent the interest of the entire community well. —Vijay Pallod Indian community activist and a Telfair resident. Vijay Pallod, left; Naushad Kermally speaks at a community support meeting hosted by Pallod at his residence.
SUPPORTS SUGAR LAND Child Advocates of Fort Bend City of Sugar Land Police Department - Back the Blue Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Fort Bend Education Foundation George Foundation Scholarship (YIP)
KermallyForSugarLand.com Political Advertising paid for by the Naushad Kermally Campaign, Nimesh Patel, Treasurer