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VOL 12 No.
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City
Court appoints guardian for County’s $390 million budget offers a 0.4 cent cut in tax rate the Sugar Land #95
By SESHADRI KUMAR The fate of the 95 bodies unearthed from an unmarked cemetery in a Fort Bend ISD school property in Sugar Land is back under litigation. A day after the school district sought to withdraw the pending lawsuit in the court of Fort Bend County District Judge Jim Shoemake on July 25, the judge appointed a noted attorney, Scott West, as the “guardian ad litem” for the 95 bodies. West is expected to move for a temporary injunction on Tuesday, Aug. 6, preventing the school district from reburying the bodies without the court’s approval. West told this paper the school district got the court’s permission to remove the bodies and the district has to obtain the court’s permission to re-bury them. West said his obligation is to ensure that the bodies are reburied properly and the process should be done in a very open and transparent manner, with the knowledge of not only those having an interest in the remains, but that of the general public as well. The supposed agreement between the school district and Fort Bend County should also be approved by the court, according to West. A spokesperson for the
FBISD filed a Supplemental Mandamus proceeding in the Court of Appeals seeking to stop Scott West from representing the interests of the Sugar Land 95. “The Court of Appeals issued a Stay (Hold Order) on my appointment, so I cannot file or present the TRO. I will be filing a Response in the Court of Appeals within five days,” West told Fort Bend Independent Monday might. school district last week promised cash payment of $1 clarified that “the District filed a million to the county, Tuesday non-suit with the District court, in a closed session. With the which essentially dismissed appointment of the Guardian the lawsuit, last Thursday, July ad litem, the county has to deal 25. While we do not yet know with the court before it reaches the implication of the court’s any agreement with the school appointment of the ad litem, district. our negotiations with the county In the matter of “Abandoned continue. Fort Bend ISD is and Unverified Historical moving forward with plans to Cemetery Located on that reinter as the negotiations with Certain Parcel of Land Owned the county continue.” by the Fort Bend Independent Fort Bend County School District,” the school Commissioners Court is district filed the Notice of Non- By SESHADRI KUMAR scheduled to consider the latest Suit because petitioner Fort Bend Fort Bend County Commisoffer of the school district, Independent School District sioners Court on Thursday See CEMETERY, Page 3 made an about turn, abandoned which excludes the originally the much-discussed Facilities Bond, and chose to call for a bare bones flood mitigation bond election for about $75 million. The bond amount will help cover the local match required to leverage $233 million in flood mitigation projects primarily funded from Federal grants. These projects were established to fix the damages incurred during the 2015 floods, the 2016 floods, and Hurricane Harvey in 2017, as well as some ongoing projects of repair and maintenance by the drainage district. What made the commissioners change their mind to drop the facilities and mobilities projects from the initially projected $260 million bond Tour Choirboys James Yen and Braden Abdulla. election? Photo by Terri Cannon Public opinion and community perception that If the young boy in your life from 6:30 p.m. – 7:15 p.m., flood mitigation is its only is not yet eight years of age, beginning October 8 and ending and top priority caused the Fort Bend Boys Choir also December 3 at the First United Commissioner Vincent Morales holds Music Magic classes for Methodist Church Missouri and Commissioner Ken R. six and seven year old boys. City. DeMerchant who were working This enrichment program On Saturday, December 7, on the bond proposal to brings music alive through Music Magic will sing with all recommend an exclusive flood movement, musical games, the treble choirs at their annual mitigation bond, dropping all singing and other activities. Christmas Musicale! facilities, parks and mobility Boys learn about rhythm Call the Fort Bend Boys projects for a future date. awareness and pitch matching Choir office at (281) 240-3800 Commissioner Andy Meyers in addition to developing large for more details and to schedule gave credit to the hard work done muscle coordination, better a date and time for an audition by these two commissioners and musicianship and increased or to sign up for Music Magic. County Judge KP George for focus. The best part is that there You can also visit their website recognizing the community’s are NO auditions for this class! at www.fbbctx.org as well as priority. In its 23rd season, Music Magic their Facebook page, YouTube “Commissioner Grady will meet on Tuesday evenings channel or Twitter. Prestage was unable to join
Know a Boy Who Loves to Sing?
Do you have a young boy in your life who loves music and singing? Is he always singing around the house, in the car or accompanying radio tunes? These are all big signs that you need to contact the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas and make an audition appointment! Open auditions for the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s 38th concert season are ongoing by special appointment. Auditions for entry into one of their treble choirs (for unchanged voices) are free and held at the First United Methodist Church-Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City. Boys should be eight years old or going into the third grade for the 2019-2020 school year. Scholarships and payment plans are available in addition to carpool assistance. Weekly rehearsals are on Thursday evenings and the new season kicks off August 22 from 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Life change happens when you participate in music and young boys in the Fort Bend Boys Choir can attest to that. They become leaders and develop time management skills, self-confidence, selfesteem and citizenship. Each boy plays an integral role in the organization’s success. There are no benchwarmers or substitutes in choir!
By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County’s property tax rate has not increased in 19 years, and decreased 3.58 cents in the past six years. The 2020 budget to be presented this week will keep up the tradition of a tax rate cut, however small it may be. Budget Director Pamela Gubbels is expected to recommend to Commissioner Court this week a budget of $281.57 million, with a proposed total tax rate of 46 cents per $100 valuation. The current total tax rate is 46.40 cents, marking a fourtenths of a cent tax rate cut. A one cent tax brings about $7 million in revenue to the county. The 0.4 cent tax cut means the county will forego about $2.8 million in tax revenue. Fort Bend County’s net assessed value is $71.1 billion and the estimated tax revenue is $321.7 million. The tax cut does not mean the taxpayers will pay less this year in taxes because the increase in
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States & Canada recently awarded Fort Bend County with the “Distinguished Budget Presentation Award” for its 2019 budget. The County’s Director of Finance and Investments, Pamela Gubbels, shared the honor with Commissioner Vincent Morales, County Judge KP George and Commissioner Andy Meyers. property valuation will wipe out including the General Fund, the Debt Service Fund, the the proposed tax reduction. In 1992, the tax rate was Road and Bridge Fund and the 66 cents per $100 of property Drainage District, has either been reduced, or held steady. or valuation. For the last 21 years, 14 of those years, the rate has See BUDGET, Page 3 since 1998, the total tax rate,
County abandons facilities bond; sticks to flood mitigation projects us in person today due to a family matter out of state, but he contributed to the meeting via FaceTime and made several suggestions that we will work to incorporate to the bond package in its final form,” said Meyers. Commissioner Meyers was the first and the only commissioner who expressed concern over the facilities bond proposal because in his precincts flood mitigation and mobility projects were needed. Meyers immediately held a couple of public meetings and conducted an online survey. Precinct 3 constituents overwhelmingly supported flood mitigation projects, followed by mobility projects. His views were reinforced during public meetings and surveys. Commissioner DeMerchant also cited the meetings he had with some of the city mayors who preferred flood mitigation projects over facilities. When discussions began, initially Meyers did not have any facility projects and other commissioners did not have any mobility projects or flood mitigation projects Early on, after the first workshop on the facility bonds, Commissioner Morales withdrew a $23 million mutlipurpose center at the county fairgrounds, though a feasibility study had been conducted previously. He felt the timing for the project was not appropriate when the county needed other priority projects. Some of the high value projects included in the nowdefunct facilities bond were
Sponsored by Serving Fort Bend County for 28 years!
a $23 million Emergency Management Center, which was scaled down to $17 million. County Judge George was keen on having this type of facility, while Commissioners Morales and DeMerchant recommended a littler smaller building at a cost of $12 million. George did not want to compromise on this project. The biggest ticket item was the juvenile detention center for $30 million for a projected increase in juvenile detainees from 75 to 100. DeMerchant had proposed a new office building for $6.5 million and another $2.8 million for the proposed memorial/ exhibition park at the Sugar Land 95 cemetery. PCt. 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage proposed the FBC Youth Sports Activity Center for $12 million, Parks South Post Oak Football Complex$3 million, Missouri City Gym $2.5 million, Kitty Hollow Expansion/Upgrades $2 million, Mission Bend Passive Park $1 million and Blue Ridge Park Renovation $1 million. And for repairs & upgrades to parks countywide, another $8 million. Subsequently, mobility projects worth $36 million, with the caveat that the county will go for another mobility bond next year. All these were put on the backburner after the commissioners realized the political reality that a facilities bond may not pass muster with the public and wisely chose to call for a flood mitigation bond.
Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019
NEWS The Literacy Council is gearing up for the 10th Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee!
L to R: Steve Waters, Angela Cox, and Eric Wolters
ESL and GED Class Registration 2019 The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County Fall class registration for adults interested in joining an English as a Second Language (ESL), Basic Literacy, ESL Conversation or a Citizenship class is open. LCFBC Fall Class Registration is open to New and Returning students GED Classes begin on Tuesday, August 27, 2019, 1pm – 4pm or 6pm – 9pm ESL Classes begin Tuesday, September 3rd – May 22, 2020 Various class schedules available, mornings and
evenings Registration Fee: $30+ (please call for more information) To begin your registration process, please go to http:// bit.ly/2KiJ2eL to complete the online application. Those who do not have access to a computer or smartphone are welcome to register at our office. For more information, contact the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County at 281240-8181, email read@ ftbendliteracy.org, or visit our website at ftbendliteracy.org. Help us “Change Lives
Through Literacy!” Since 1987, the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County has been Changing Lives Through Literacy. The mission of the Literacy Council is to improve family, community and professional lives through adult literacy education. The Literacy Council provides several programs for its students: Basic Literacy, English as a Second Language, GED Preparation, U.S. Citizenship Preparation, Computer Skills and Job Readiness Skills.
The 10th Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee, presented by CenterPoint Energy and Houston Federal Credit Union, is a fun, casual evening of friendly competition between teams slated for Thursday, September 12, 2019 from 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Quail Valley City Centre. This year’s Bee is cochaired by Taylor Connor and Fallon Moody. Current sponsors for this event include Allen Boone Humphries Robinson, C&M Favre Foundation, Carpenter & Carpenter, CenterPoint Energy, Costello, Inc, Dispatch Health, Exchange Club of Fort Bend, Fallon and Yves Sivuilu, Fort Bend Herald, Fort Bend Independent School District, Frost Bank, Houston Federal Credit Union, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Jim McClellan, Judge David and Shayne Newell, Liquid Frameworks, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, Roberta K. Randall Charitable Fund, Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC, RVOS Farm Mutual Insurance, Tax Tech, Varun Gupta, WJ Interests, LLC and Wessendorff Insurance. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are still available ranging in price from $500-$1,250. You can also choose to sponsor a word to be used during the Bee for $200 or purchase a letter for $100. Spectator tickets are available for $50 and include dinner. For more information about these opportunities, and other ways to be involved, emailing the Events Coordinator, asanchez@ ftbendliteracy.org or call 281240-8181.
L to R: Co-Chair Fallon Moody, Executive Director, Kelli Metzenthin, Co-Chair, Taylor Connor
Sugar Land Heritage Friends to honor Veterans at Summer Social on Aug. 8
Plan to join the Sugar Land Heritage Friends to honor Sugar Land Veterans on August 8 at the Sugar Land Heritage Museum, 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land. Check in is from 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm. The program begins at 6:45 pm. RSVP at: http://slheritage.org/get-involved/foundationfriends/ “Sugar Land Heritage Friends salute our Veterans and are hosting a social to express our appreciation for their bravery and service to our great country. Sugar Land Veterans continue to leave a legacy of service for the next generations, and we want to honor them,” said Terry Nirider, SLHF chair. “Please join us for this special event honoring our veterans.” Keeping with the Heritage Friends Then and Now theme, there will be an Honor Guard, Flag folding ceremony followed by a roll call to honor Sugar Land Veterans. A veteran exhibit will also be on display at the event, and a capella group, the Sweet Adelines, will perform patriotic tunes. Other activities are planned including a Wreath Auction. Patriotic and military themed wreathes have been made by Heritage Friends as well as groups such as the Women’s Auxiliary and Colony One Brookdale. Lights bites and other refreshments will be served, and of course there will be a great time to socialize. The Summer Social is sponsored by Fort Bend Financial, former Sugar Land District 2 Council Member Bridget Yeung. Radio Lounge owned by Ray Schillens along with Tracy Prater will provide audio and visual assistance. Security will be provided by Sugar Land Police Department. American Legion Post 942 and Auxiliary members have provided invaluable help and guidance, and beverage service is provided by Texas Safari. Other event supporters include the City of Sugar Land and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Heritage Friends host three socials annually and are free for members. Guests are welcome with a $20 donation (or minimal donation). Heritage Friends memberships are available for $55 per person and $100 for any two new members. The Membership can be paid online or at the socials and is tax deductible. Heritage Friends is an auxiliary committee within SLHF for anyone 21 and older. For a minimal donation, friends can support the foundation operations and museum expansion. This is a friend-raising group whose main purpose is to bring together SLHF advocates, learn more about Sugar Land’s rich history and promote the museum first hand as it expands and develops. Annual dues will 100 percent go to support the SLHF. Member Benefits Include: • Socials three times a year, food/drink and a program provided. These will be held on 2nd Thursdays from 6:00 – 8:00 pm • Exclusive invitation to Member’s only unveiling events for new Exhibits • 10% discount in our gift shop on Sugar Land Heritage Merchandise Only • 10% discount on Rental of Museum Space • As well as the satisfaction of helping further the mission. 100% of your dues goes to further the mission of the foundation. Following the Summer Social, the next event will be on November 14 and will feature a discussion about shopping in Sugar Land with a focus on local businesses. Sugar Land Heritage Foundation Friends: Connecting Then and Now is an auxiliary committee within SLHF for anyone 21 and older. For a minimal donation, friends can support the foundation operations and museum expansion. This is a friend-raising group whose main purpose is to bring together SLHF advocates, learn more about Sugar Land’s rich history and promote the museum first hand as it expands and develops. Annual dues will 100% support SLHF.
State Rep. Dr. John Zerwas announces retirement
By SESHADRI KUMAR State Rep. Dr. John Zerwas has announced his early retirement from the Texas Legislature. In an announcement made yesterday, Zerwas said his resignation would be effective Sept. 30. Zerwas won his seventh legislative term in the general election held on November 6, 2018. With 44,306 votes (54.2 percent), he defeated the Democrat, Meghan Scoggins, who polled 37,427. His tenure ends Dec. 31, 2020. “It has been an absolute honor to represent House District 28, and I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish over the last 12 years,” Zerwas said in a statement. “I have served under three Speakers, and
Zerwas each of them gave me incredible opportunities to lead for which I am grateful.” Zerwas scotched the speculation that he was going to run for 22nd Congressional district seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Pete Olson. He is expected to be appointed executive vice chancellor of the University of Texas at
NEWS
Austin. During his seven terms in the House, Zerwas served as chair of the Higher Education Committee. After the exit of Speaker Joe Straus, he sought to run for the post, but dropped out of the speaker’s race a year later and got behind state Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton. He appointed Zerwas to chair the budget-writing appropriations committee. Texas Democrats need nine seats to take control of the House and the resignation of Zerwas may be to their advantage. The next Legislature will draw new congressional and state district maps, which will go into effect through 2030. The party in power will decide the political map.
State Rep. Rick Miller may resign from the legislature Governor likely to tap him for Department of Family Protective Services
By SESHADRI KUMAR Sugar Land Republican State Rep. Rick Miller, who represents Dist. 26, may resign or not seek reelection, since he is likely to be appointed Commissioner of the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. Governor Greg Abbott has released the names of two applicants for the commissioner’s post. They are Rick Miller and current DFPS Deputy Commissioner Trevor Woodruff. Miller has represented Dist. 26 in the state legislature since 2013. Miller confirmed with the Fort Bend Independent that he is being considered for the job and if the governor offers the job, he will take it. Miller has to know the governor’s decision sooner because he has to continue his re-election campaign since
another candidate seeking the Republican Party’s nomination in this race. Miller, if he gets the job and resigns, will follow Dr. John Zerwas. Zerwas’ resignation will be effective Sept. 30. A special election may have to be held to fill the two vacancies.
Miller the primary elections are fast approaching. Two candidates have already announced their intention to run for his seat. Former Fort Bend County GOP Chairman Jacey Jetton has announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination to the Dist. 26 seat. Mathew Morgan is
Budget
for an associate judge. There is no courtroom space available for an associate judge. It will cost $1.5 million to build the courtroom and will take 9 months to build. Additionally, payroll for the associate judge and ancillary staff will cost $1 million a year. The judges could continue to use the existing associate judges, but they prefer new ones. The estimated ending balance for all accounts is $109 million and the end balance in the general fund is expected to be $59.87 million, which is 20.9 percent of the budget. Commissioners court will hold public hearings on the proposed budget and tax rate later this month before adopting them.
Cemetery
Meanwhile, Fort Bend County made a decision to intervene in the matter and offered to take over the cemetery. The county itself had no legal authority to do so and the state legislature passed special legislation enabling the county to own and operate a cemetery. The only issue settled so far is that the bodies will be reburied at the same site where they were found, instead of relocating them in a nearby cemetery. Consequently, the school district excluded the site from its building plan, revised the design and the school is set to open later this month. Meanwhile, the district has spent millions of dollars in exhuming, analyzing and preserving the bodies and for re-designing the building.
From Page 1 dropped. This is partially due to the increase in the County’s net assessed taxable value each year, but also to the fiscal guidance of the Commissioners Court. The 2020 budget is about 6 percent more than the 2019 budget of $373.5 million. The demand by various departments totalled nearly $423 million, but the budget officer is recommending a total of $390 million. At a final budget hearing requests discussed during a special meeting of commissioners court last week, the commissioners court did not approve the demand of the newly elected judges of the 268th District Court and the 240th District
From Page 1 no longer sought to remove the cemetery designation from the abandoned and unverified historical cemetery located on its property.” Though the district had a right to withdraw the suit, the court has obviously found merit in sustaining the lawsuit. Hence, it appointed the guardian ad litem. On May 14, 2018, the school district filed a petition with the court seeking its permission to remove the bodies. Subsequently, the court allowed the district to exhume the bodies and also appointed a court master to ascertain the facts of the case. The school district objected to the appointment of the master and that issue is still pending.
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 3
Tricia Krenek announces her candidacy for Texas House Dist. 28 Former Fulshear City Councilwoman Tricia Krenek (R-Fulshear) has announced her candidacy for Texas House District 28. “I am honored to announce my candidacy for Texas House District 28, and I am humbled by the outpouring of support and encouragement I’ve received throughout the district,” said Krenek, a life-long Texan. “Fort Bend County is one of the best places to live and raise families, work, pursue your business interests, and play. We must continue to have strong leadership that will focus on the critical issues facing our families and our communities.” In addition to serving two terms on the Fulshear City Council from 2014 to 2018, Tricia has been active in the Fort Bend Republican Party, serving as a Precinct Chair. She also won the Republican Primary for County Court at Law Court #3 in 2018. In that election, Tricia carried the vote in House District 28. As State Representative, Tricia will focus on the critical issues affecting Fort Bend County, one
Krenek of the fastest growing and most diverse counties in Texas. “First and foremost, we must continue to address flood mitigation and property taxes,” said Krenek. “These issues touch every family and every business in the district and county. We must also build on the successes we saw during the last session with regard to improving public schools and taking care of our teachers and retired teachers. Our
Sarah DeMerchant and Rish Obeori are seeking the Democratic Party nomination for the State Dist. 26 seat, currently held by Miller. Update: Despite the rumors, Representative Miller is fully committed to running and winning re-election. Miller
issued a statement Friday: “While I am honored to be considered by Governor Abbott, I am solely focused on running and winning reelection,” said Miller. “We just finished a historic legislative session that saw a number of accomplishments on key
local schools are the backbone of our community and one of the biggest reasons people are moving here.” Krenek said her platform would also include keeping taxes and regulations low, promoting free markets and defending profamily values. Tricia graduated from the University of St. Thomas earning both a BBA and MBA in accounting prior to obtaining her law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. She also studied under the late United States Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Tricia is married to Ed Krenek – a lifelong Fort Bend County resident. They own a boutique law firm that specializes in civil litigation and business consulting. Tricia and Ed have a beautiful blended family of eight including her four wonderful stepchildren, a granddaughter, and the family dog. The Kreneks are members of St. Faustina Catholic Church and proud to call Fort Bend home.
issues like property tax reform and transparency, school finance, teacher pay, and border security. I appreciate everyone’s continued support and I look forward to sharing my record and my story with the voters of House District 26.”
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 4
OPINION A Black, Gay, Texan Yale Grad & Mohammed “Mo” Nehad Abdulhameed for Fort Bend County Pct. 3 Constable politician explains why he finds
Republicans more authentic
Booher with his father and other family members at Thanksgiving 2010. For a Native Texan, being a fiscal conservative and social libertarian is in the DNA of our culture. Keeping the government out of my pocket, out of my bedroom, and off my property line is all I ever knew growing up. As the various factions of the Gay Liberation or Rights movement which celebrated the 25th Anniversary of Stonewall in 1994 and was my first Pride. But while people were debating if gay people were actually human, most Texans did not understand why it was anyone’s business and certainly not the Government’s role to legislate our brothers and sisters sex lives. Texas has always leaned to the ‘you stay out of my business and I will stay out of your business’ attitude. We still have our frontier mindset. At Yale in the mid-1990’s there were gay groups, gay groups of color, gay straight alliances, but like many things during that smorgasbord of experiences I never thought much beyond “this is awesome… this is a whole new world (someone cue the song). It was such a colorful fishbowl… mesmerizing.” It was not until I was a Summer analyst at Goldman Sachs it became apparent I was living in a bubble and not a fishbowl. As I discovered the Wall/Broad Street lunch haunts I noticed that a set of traders and bankers would all eat lunch away from the typical places on William street behind the building… they actually would go down to Water Street to an outdoor waterfall park. Although these guys were older than me, I recognized them from gay Yale, gay Harvard, or the Chelsea gay scene… they were always kind to me in our fishbowl. The first casual Friday I bought a Gucci top and a pair of purple Versace pants and as I left my Upper Westside sublet one of the Traders stopped me at the subway stop in our area and said “What the Hell are you thinking? You can be gay dude, but not ‘out and about’.” My bubble burst as I went back to my walkup and put on my khakis and button down. Over the rest of the summer I noticed a series of homophobic conversations and comments coming not only from the straight senior people, but my fellow gays. And just like that I found myself employing a very important principle… you can be out, but just not about. For our generation it was career ending on all levels… gay, straight, republican, democrat, liberal, conserva-
tive alike. From then on I went back to “My life was my life… never make it their business.” Over the years I learned a series of diversionary techniques when questions of personal life or weekend exploits came up… they could talk about topless bars and trips to Atlantic city with hookers… I talked about dinner with friends and my community garden. As I became a senior leader I proactively shared my life experiences with my gay and lesbian mentees… ending with the fact that my fellow senior leaders and our bosses are those same people and that people who were proud and loud homophobes not 10 years ago. I just don’t think people can change such fervent positions in 10-20 years. So here I am 20 years later running for a public office in Texas as a Republican and asking myself the very basic question: Are they ready? Has society fundamentally changed? I want to say yes, but I get the sinking feeling of being told to go home and change. And not from the same set of society! Over the last four years I have been involved with the Republican Party of Texas. I have had the privilege of being a Precinct Chair, Acting Communications Committee Chair, lead volunteer for the Greg Abbott for Governor Campaign, the Dan Patrick for Lt. Governor campaign, Senator Ted Cruz campaign, a regional White House Fellow for President Trump, supporter of Ron DeSantis of Florida, I have block walked one-onone with white straight CEOs and CFOs from the some of the largest Houston area companies… all the time being forward with my sexuality and I have only felt accepted and encouraged. So it is not the Republican electorate that I am concerned about. I am concerned about the intolerance of true diversity in the Liberal, Progressive and/ or Democratic party for anything they find is antithetical to the narrative they advance. My experience has been questioned, my authencity has been questioned, my connection to gay and black issues have been questioned because I am who I am politically. And dare say I have been attacked. It’s as if those who penned the term intersectionality fail to recognize the archetype of it. As a southern, Black, gay, fiscal conservative, social libertarian, with an Ivy league degree, and global outlook I am intersectional… and simply put I am here to redraw the
lines of politics. Our community advocates for diversity and have pioneered that fight in greater society for 50 years, but are we ready for diversity within our community? The diversity that inevitably comes along with a larger role in society. Is there room for both an Aaron Shock, a Pete Buttigieg… and for that matter a William Booher in the politics of LGBT America and America at Large? Let me know your thoughts. (www.gaynrd.com) William Booher is running for Texas’ Senate District 13. You can email him at william@booher2020txsenate13. org.
Born in Kuwait, Mohammed Nehad Abdulhameee has lived the American dream excelling at every business he has worked in. He has married a cellist and has three children. He entered law enforcement at the age of 35 to give back to the community he cares about so dearly. Abdulhameed has several years experience in management in various fields that he will use to bring honesty and integrity to the diverse community of Fort Bend. Abdulhameed says “The residents of Precinct 3 require a Constable that will keep the growing diverse community safe. As your Constable, I will implement proactive policing, be transparent of the processes and boost employee morale while keeping promises made to the residents and staff.” Abdulhameed is running as a Conservative Democrat who has been in law enforcement for the last 5 years beginning in 2014 with the Harris County Sheriff Office in Patrol Bureau. He currently works for the third largest State Police Agency, The University of Texas System Police in Houston. Abdulhameed is a Mental Health Officer, Field Training Officer, Classroom Instructor, and OC Instructor. He has also completed the Supervisor Course for State Certified Law Enforcement Officers and currently is the #1 Police Officer in regards to performance. Abdulhameed has worked for companies like Convergys supporting Gateway Computers, Mattel Products
Andulhameed and Compaq Computers. He also worked for Verizon for 10 years in call center management with the last 5 years in management. He worked for International FMCG organization in Kuwait as a Senior Call Center Manager and finally for family business Lisle Violin beginning in 2011 as a Director for Business Operations. Abdulhameed has managed up to 200 employees in his teams while at Verizon Wireless, Kout Food Group Kuwait and Lisle Violin. Most recently he has expanded his family business retail stores to Katy in Pct. 3 and Tomball in Harris County. He indirectly manages 76 employees, 4 retail locations,
two warehouses, a fleet of business vehicles and all business operations non sales related (Asset Management, Human Resources, Real Estate and Payroll Benefits). He is also responsible for the oversight of his family real estate investment properties in Harris County and Fort Bend County. Abdulhameed is promising to introduce proactive policing to all neighborhoods of Pct 3 which is currently is offered to the contract neighborhoods only. Proactive Policing will include traffic enforcement, walk and talk with the businesses and community engagement which will include all of Pct. 3. He promises to advise and keep citizens informed of the performance of the agency’s key performance indicators on a quarterly basis versus only every two years right now and will lead by example as he has done with his current agency and past assignments with other organizations. Abdulhameed believes in promoting employees based on performance and seniority within the organization.
FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.
12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor
www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745
Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 12551, Emily Court, Texas 77478. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.
SSLW & Partners host “College Send Off”
NEWS
Scholarship recipients, (seated) with their parents Suburban Sugar Land Women (SSLW) & Two Phenomenal Partners ( Dr. Margaret Allen & Ms. Belinda Allen, sisters) hosted an empowering and fun “College Send Off” for 2017-2019 SSLW’s scholarship recipients at the beautiful home of Dr. Allen in Sugar Land. This annual project was generously underwritten by The Allen’s sisters. Crystal L. Jones and Felicia Bess, projects chairs, facilitated a lively and fun conversation on “College – Life Do’s & Don’ts” with scholarship recipients, parents, and SSLWomen & Partners.
Each recipient received a university color gift bag: beautiful 10 by 8 in frames of “College – Life Do’s and Don’ts”; gift cards; Our Daily Bread devotionals; and book – Maximizing Your Own Treasure Chest by Keith “ Mr. D-Mars” Davis, Sr . Scholarship Recipients: Calah Burros, 2019 Austin High graduate, attending Prairie View A & M University on a full scholarship; Myah Williams, 2019 Dulles High graduate, attending Howard University; Jason McDonald, 2019 Fulshear High (Lamar CISD) graduate attending Prairie View A & M
University; Forche Bridges, 2018 Hightower High graduate, attending Baylor University; William Johnson, 2018 Hightower High graduate, attending Baylor University; and Mia Johnson, 2017 Ridge Point High (FBISD) graduate, attending Texas Southern University; Parents: Chetara & Forrest Bridges, III; Shanteria Johnson; and Maria Mc Donald SSLW Members|Partners: Dr. Moses & Susan Wilcox; Teresa Allen; & Mose & Mable Scott Austin. Visit www.sslw.org for more information.
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 5
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital ranked among top hospitals in Texas
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the leading hospitals in the Houston area and in the state. In the magazine’s prestigious “Best Hospital” annual rankings this year, Houston Methodist Sugar Land is tied for No. 5 in the Houston area and tied for No. 9 in Texas. The hospital is ranked in seven specialties, procedures and conditions, including: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), colon cancer surgery, gastroenterology/GI surgery, geriatrics, heart failure, nephrology and orthopedics. “This recognition is a testament to the in-
credible progress we’ve made in bringing superior medical care to the community,” said Chris Siebenaler, regional senior vice president and CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land. “The teamwork between our physicians and our staff — with a focus on continuously improving quality and safety — is making a significant difference in the lives of patients throughout Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. We are all very proud to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report.” The magazine’s annual rankings are based on scores in patient care, patient safety, outcomes, nursing, advanced
technology and reputation. U.S. News & World Report has also named Houston Methodist Hospital to its Honor Roll, a list of the top hospitals in the country. This is the third time Houston Methodist Hospital has been named to the Honor Roll, and is also the eighth year in a row it’s been named the No. 1 hospital in Texas. To view the full list of hospital rankings, visit health.usnews.com/best-hospitals. For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland, or call 281.274.7500 for a physician referral.
New MCTX “Real-Time” travel map provides more accurate Skeeters Baseball Foundation traffic patterns for drivers etches memories for Autism families
The Skeeters Baseball Foundation awarded Hope for Three, a local nonprofit and autism advocacy group, funding to give families living with autism the opportunity to attend Camp Aranzazu; a special needs camp in Rockport, Texas. Pictured L to R : Dustin Fessler, Roberts Markel Weinberg, Butler, Hailey; Malisha Patel, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land & Southwest Hospital; Christopher Hill, Sugar Land Skeeters; Darla Farmer, Hope For Three CEO; Larry Lobue, President Sugar Land Skeeters Baseball Foundation; Jason Berns, Constellation Energy; Sherry Fuller, Johnson Development and Jennifer Chiang, Chiang Law Firm. Every time you go to a Sugar Land Skeeters home game you have a chance to win the 50/50 raffle. The Skeeters Baseball Foundation allows you a chance “to get rich or donate trying.” The Foundation’s mission, “Promotes youth education and healthy activities for culturally, racially and economically diverse populations in Fort Bend County.” This summer the Foundation awarded a grant to Hope For Three for families living with autism spectrum disorder to attend Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas. Hope For Three, a local nonprofit and autism advocacy group, offered families they serve a contest to write a short message of what a camp experience would mean to their family. All who entered were able to attend the special needs camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with unique camping and retreat experiences.
“This journey was not only a simple camp, it was an amazing experience for all members of my family, for each one of us,” said Juan Marquez, a dad whose family attended the camp. “For my son Gael, he learned a lot of new skills, like painting and fishing. I could see my wife Barbara content, relaxed and happy. And for me, I was able to see my son on the spectrum, Juanito, in another environment … He opened himself to new challenges and was able to manage his frustrations better. I feel his emotional level came up. Now, at home, he is crying less and controls himself much better than the week before. He follows directions much better and has less meltdowns,” Juan shared. “Therefore, we, the whole Marquez family, is thankful and feel blessed for receiving this opportunity. We are thankful to all the people involved to make this happen. Thanks to Hope For Three, Camp Aranzazu, Samantha,
Nichole and Amelia and her team and thank you to the Skeeters Foundation. Without all of you, being able to provide my family with a similar experience would have been close to impossible. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for allowing us to have this adventure, thanks to each of you to help our family and our sons. We feel blessed by all the positive energy and energy that you share with each of us,” said Marquez. The Skeeters Baseball Foundation made a difference in the lives of four families by providing the opportunity to spend quality family time in a safe, accepting, inclusive environment. At Camp Aranzazu, campers can leave behind the stresses of physical, medical, and emotional challenges, and spend time outdoors, socializing and interacting with others who face similar challenges. For information on autism resources and event opportunities, visit hopeforthree.org or call 281-245-0640.
Images courtesy of Missouri City. MCTX Traffic Operations Manager Kevin Cummings oversaw the launch of a new travel map that can be accessed and viewed on the City’s website: http://bit.ly/2yvl2hS. The transit resource will improve traffic flow efficiencies. Missouri City residents and visitors will now have a more vivid look into traffic patterns around the “Show Me City” as staff recently launched a new travel map on the City’s website: http://bit.ly/2yvl2hS. “It’s a real-time speed map of the City’s roadways that includes vehicle travel times, the Dynamic Message Signs, and still photos of the City’s closed-circuit television cameras,” said Kevin Cummings, Traffic Operations Manager. “We can also include planned construction and/or lengthy accidents that may cause delays.” The Travel Map is the final phase of the Intelligent Traffic Systems project that began in late 2017. The overall cost of the project was $1.2 million; the funding was 80 percent through the Texas Department of Transportation and 20 percent through the City. The map includes all major corridors in the City, including US Highway 90A, Texas Parkway, Cartwright Road, FM 1092, Highway 6, Sienna Parkway and Fort Bend Parkway. “State Highway 6 also serves as an evacuation route
and the posting of travel times and critical messages in realtime are imperative to the community’s preparation and travel during major events,” Cummings said. “Motorists across the region can now view the new transportation map on the City’s website before travelling to see how area traffic is flowing and to prepare accordingly.” In order to process accurate travel times, the map uses Bluetooth devices that collect Media Access Control addresses through drivers’ toll tag identifications. The ID’s are analyzed through an algorithm that is based on roadway speed limits and vehicle speed limits. This helps determine how quickly drivers get from one point to another point along a route. City staff monitor the map and cameras throughout City limits from the Traffic Management Center located in the Public Works Service Center. If there is a major event such as a parade or construction, or an accident occurs, staff can add road closures to the map as well as to area Dynamic Message Signs. “This public awareness in-
forms commuters about transit patterns as they are happening in real-time and enables drivers to plan ahead, which ultimately increases traffic flow efficiency,” Cummings said. “This project was another step to keep our citizens informed and safe on the City’s main corridors.”
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INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 6
two-tone 15-inch alloy wheel (with cover). The AWD-e models rely on a Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery, since nickel batteries are inherently resilient to extreme temperature change. This provides AWD-e models with excellent battery performance in cold-weather conditions. All FWD Prius models got a Lithium Ion battery. The Prius AWD-e models offer 62.7 cu. ft. of carrying space with the standard 60:40 split rear seatbacks lowered. The Prius AWD-e offers available cargo crossbars for roof rack attachments and the XLE features upgraded heated front seats. The Prius comes standard with driver’s door key system, push button start and remote illuminated entry. An adaptive front lighting system is available on the XLE grade and is standard on the Limited grade. Also all 2019 Prius models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P that include a millimeter-wave radar and a monocular camera sensor to detect a pedestrian, a vehicle, and lane markers and headlights in the surrounding area.
The package comes with a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and full speed range radar cruise control. Because all Prius models, under certain circumstances, can operate in battery mode alone, during which they make little to no noise, they have a vehicle proximity notification system to help alert pedestrians and cyclists. All Prius models have a 4.2” color information display with customizable screens, an AWD-e system indicator which includes energy monitor, hybrid system indicator and Eco score, Eco drive monitor, Eco wallet, Eco diary, climate control, driver support systems, audio system content, and navigation system content. The standard Entune Audio system for AWD-e models includes the Entune Multimedia Bundle: 6.1 in. touch-screen display, AM/FM CD player, 6 speakers, auxiliary audio jack, one USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and two 2.1-amp USB charge ports, advanced voice recognition, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming, Siri Eyes Free, and an integrated backup camera display. The fourth-generation Prius Limited was the test drive vehicle and it arrived in a new Prius color -- Supersonic Red. The Limited, which had numerous bells and whistles on it, was powered by a 1.8 liter DOCH 16V VVT-i four cylinder engine with EV/ECO/ POWER modes. The Limited’s MSRP is $32,200 and optional equipment, delivery processing and handling hiked the total to $34,040. The seats are most comfortable, the interior is well done and the engine provides quickness when it’s needed. And there is always the rest of the ride and drive that gets many more miles to the gallon.
THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION
AUTOMOBILE: Toyota Prius
By BARBARA FULENWIDER The 2019 Prius now has an available new AWD-e (electric) system that is designed to provide more confidence and control when weather and road conditions are less than ideal and the electric all-wheel drive system further expands where Prius can go and go and go. The new Prius AWD-e system is one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-driveequipped passenger cars available in the U.S. Toyota’s AWD-e automatic, on-demand system does not require a center differential or other torqueapportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear drive. The Prius fuel economy is 58 mpg city /53 mpg highway on
the L Eco grade, while the LE, XLE and Limited get 54 mpg city/50 mpg highway. As for good looks, the exterior of the Prius got a new front bumper, headlamp design and taillamp design. The new AWD-e models sport new foglamps and an all-new LED accent lamp. Inside, the 2019 Prius got piano black accents around the shifter, the steering wheel, and center console cover. Interior updates include two additional 2.1 USB ports, a larger Qi wireless phone charging tray for larger phones, and a standard heated steering wheel on XLE, XLE AWD-e and Limited models. The AWD-e model available in LE and XLE grades got a
City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE ******* PROPOSAL DUE DATE OF August 22, 2019 AT 2:00 p.m. ******* Request for Proposals for the provision of Credit Card Processing Services Commodity Code: 946-35 Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the RFP name and number as listed above, and the due date. Responses must be delivered to the attention of: City of Missouri City Request for Proposals (RFP) No. 19-062 Credit Card Processing Services Attn: Purchasing Office 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 Prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Until final award of the contract, the City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No proposal may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.
City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE OPENING DATE OF ****August 8, 2019 AT 2:00 pm.**** Request for Qualifications RFQ: # 19-353 •Plan review for commercial building applications, and inspection services •COMMODITY CODE(S): 925-36 OR 925-17 OR 911-40 Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the RFQ name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of City of Missouri City Attn: Purchasing Office IFB No. 19-353 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Until final award of the contract, the City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to re-advertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No response may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.
INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2, Attention: Andre D. McDonald, President, Board of Directors, will be received at the office of LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449, until 10:00 a.m., Local Time, Thursday, August 15, 2019, and then publicly opened and read for “Construction of the Interior Ditch Rehabilitation Ditch “B”, “B-1”, “C”, “C-1” and “E” in Fort Bend County L.I.D. No. 2 for Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2, Fort Bend County, Texas”. Scope of Work of the Contract includes the following: construction of access ramps, replacement of existing pipes and outfall structures, demuck and regrading of ditches and installation of articulated concrete block and concrete slope protection for channel lining and all associated appurtenances. Bids received after the closing time will be returned unopened. A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. Local Time, at William “Bill” Little Pump Station, 4435 Greystone Way, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. Attendance by each prospective bidder or its representative at the prebid conference is MANDATORY, and no Bid will be opened unless the bidder or representative was present at the pre-bid conference. Each Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond or a certified or cashier’s check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount Bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided, and provide the required insurance certificates within seven (7) days after the date Contract Documents are received by the Contractor. Bidding documents may be examined at LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449 or may be obtained by prospective bidders or suppliers at https://www.civcastusa.com. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project. Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2
TO ANTHONI JEROME TERRELL 3326 KALE RANCH KATY TX 77494 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 September 02, 2019 a default judgment may be taken against you. The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 18-DCV-251526 and is styled: State of Texas vs. $2,300 U.S. Currency The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: MARK LAFORGE ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY 301 JACKSON ST RICHMOND TX 77469 281-633-7638 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows towit: WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, PETITIONER PRAYS THAT THIS PETITION BE CONSIDERED AN ORIGINAL NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENDED FOREFEITURE AND THAT CITATION ISSUE TO THOSE PARTIES AS SET OUT IN THIS PETITION; THAT UPON HEARING THIS COURT FIND THAT THE $2,300.00 US CURRENCY IS CONTABAND AS DEFINED IN THE TEXAS CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE, ARTICLE 59.01 (2) AND THAT THE COURT ALLOW FORFEITURE OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY TO THE STATE OF TEXAS BY AND THROUGH THE OFFICES OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, AS AGENT FOR THE STATE AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS LOCAL AGREEMENTS, SUBJECT ONLY TO ANY INTEREST OF THE BONA FIDE HOLDER OF THE PERFECTED LIEN OR PERFECTED SECURITY INTERESTS ON SAID CONTRABAND AND THAT THE PROPERTY BE DISPOSED OF PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 59.06 OF THE TEXAS CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE AND ALL COSTS BE TAXED AGAINST CLAIMANT IN THIS CAUSE AND FOR SUCH OTHER RELIEF AT LAW AND IN EQUITY AS THE PETITIONER SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE. 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 17th day of July, 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., Room 101 Richmond, Texas 77469 Deputy District Clerk Autumn Dolnik (281) 233-3279
TO YUCEF PEREZ 2711 TEAGUE ROAD #428 HOUSTON TX 770800 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 September 02, 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 18-DCV-254247 and is styled: State of Texas vs 2003 Ford F-450 (Vin 1 FDXF46F93EB03016 Paper Tag No. 01691 u5) The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: MARK LAFORGE ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY 301 JACKSON ST RICHMOND TX 77469 281-633-7638 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows towit: WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, PETITIONER PRAYS THAT THIS PETITION BE CONSIDERED AN ORIGINAL NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENTED FORFEITURE AND THAT CITATION ISSUE TO THOSE PARTIES AS SET OUT IN THIS PETITION; THAT UPON HEARING THIS COURT FIND THAT THE 2003 FORD F-450 (VIN 1FDXF46F93EB03016, PAPER TAG NO. 01691U5) IS CONTRABAND AS DEFINED IN THE TEXAS CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE, ARTICLE 59.01 (2) AND THAT THE COURT ALLOW FORFEITURE OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY TO THE STATE OF TEXAS BY AND THROUGH THE OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS AS AGENT FOR THE STATE AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH ITS LOCAL AGREEENTS, SUBJECT ONLY TO ANY INTEREST OF THE BONA FIDE HOLDER OF THE PERFECTED LIEN OR PERFECTED SECURITY INTEREST ON SAID CONTRABAND AND THAT THE PROPERTY BE DISPOSED OF PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 59.06 OF THE TEXAS CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE AND THAT ALL COSTS BE TAXED AGAINST CLAIMANT IN THIS CAUSE AND FOR SUCH OTHER RELIED AT LAW AND IN EQUITY AS THE PETITIONER SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE. 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 17th day of July, 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., Room 101 Richmond, Texas 77469 Deputy District Clerk Ashley Alaniz (281) 633-7616
John Null appointed Trustee of the George Foundation The Trustees of The George Foundation recently elected John Null to the board for a special three-year term. Null replaces Trustee Don Wenzel of Needville, who was appointed in 2012 and retired after providing outstanding service and contributions to the Foundation during his tenure. Null previously served a ten-year term as Trustee of The George Foundation ending in March 2018 and will provide experienced leadership to the Foundation during his special term. Null was born in Texas City and is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. He is a CPA and CFP and was the founder and managing partner of Null-Lairson before it merged with another firm in 2012. He was recently recognized by the Texas Society of CPAs for outstanding service to the profession for 50 consecutive years. Null has served on numerous nonprofit boards across Fort Bend County including leadership roles as past chairman of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and was a founder of the Fort Bend ISD
Null Education Foundation. Null and his wife Diana reside in Sugar Land and have three adult children, all proud graduates of Dulles High School. Their daughter Tracy and her family live in Sugar Land while their two sons, Chris and Brad, live with their families in the San Francisco area. Each family has two children – a boy and a girl – thus the Nulls spend a great deal of time with grandparent duties. Serving on the Foundation’s Board with Null will be Trustees Tom McNutt, Ruthanne Mefford, Jim Condrey, and Steve Ewbank.
Rosenberg man kills ex-girlfriend’s mother, brother; commits suicide After a failed attempt to kill his ex-girlfriend, a 42-year-old man killed his girlfriend’s mother and brother at their home, before killing himself on Tuesday, July 30, in Rosenberg, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s office. On July, 30, 2019, at 2:39 p.m., the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a call concerning a shooting that had taken place at Highway 36 and Comanche Blvd, just south of Rosenberg, Texas. The shooter has been identified as Juan DeLeon Jr., 42. He is the father of his ex-girlfriend’s child. The ex-girlfriend was being given a ride by a friend and her friend’s teen daughter when her ex-boyfriend drove towards them while shooting. The women managed to drive away from the shooter and sought safety with a Sheriff’s deputy working with Fort Bend County Road and Bridge. It is believed the shooter drove away and went to the home of his ex-girlfriend and shot and killed her family members. The shooter then returned to the location of his ex-girlfriend and shot himself. He later succumbed to his injury at the hospital. The ex-girlfriend victim was able to tell deputies a brief sequence of events and expressed her concern for her family located at the 5000 block of Navajo Ct. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two deceased persons at the home. The ex-girlfriend’s mother, Gloria Rivera, 64, was shot and killed at her home along with her adult son, Fabian Rivera, 40. “This is absolutely heartbreaking for all the family members,” said Sheriff Troy Nehls. “These families will need prayers and support to help them through this time.”
Italian Maid Café hosts Music on the Patio Fridays
Gamboa
Marcoulier Rigatoni, cherry limeade margaritas, live music and more are on the menu for Music on the Patio Fridays in August at Italian Maid Café in Cross Creek Ranch. The restaurant, at 6450 Cross Creek Bend Lane, will host musical guests 5:30 to 8 p.m. each Friday. The lineup of local talent includes: Aug. 2 — Rodrigo Gamboa, romantic, soulful guitar
Aug. 9 — Mitch Marcoulier, solo acoustic and personal stories from his career touring with Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson Aug. 16 — Josue Thesis, a Cross Creek Ranch resident with a family-friendly, eclectic mix of tunes Aug. 23 — Alejandro Miramontes, John Mayer-inspired sound Aug. 30 — Mitch Marcoulier returns To reserve a table, www. IMCafe.us or phone 281341-1587.
COMMUNITY
INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 7
Fulshear hosts world premier of “Subsistence” FULSHEAR– Katy Visual and Performing Arts Center (KVPAC)/ Encore Arts Encore Players will present the World Premier of Subsistence, written by Sally Jane Kerschen Sheppard and directed by Kathleen Brown, on Aug. 9 and 10. Show times are August 9 and 10 at 8:00pm and August 10 at 2:00pm. Tickets are $18 for Adults, $16 for Seniors (55+) and Students. During a world-wide economic collapse, three siblings reunite at their family farm in Texas believing it will be their best chance at survival. As they are forced to live and work together, old conflicts come to the surface, and their internal struggles clash with the need to protect themselves from the outside world. The setting is an old farmhouse in Texas, in the near future. Subsistence is being produced as a special engagement with KVPAC/Encore Arts in Fulshear Texas as part of the TNT Pops! Playwrighting Competition on August 9 &
10, 2019, directed by Kathleen Brown and Student Director Michael Cammack. CHARACTERS: JANICE SCHILLING LAWRENCE – The eldest sister. Early-50s, widow, Michael’s mother, a doctor, she is very used to being in charge. This role is cast with Andrea Cammack. ROBERT SCHILLING – The middle child. Late 40s, married to Virginia, lives on the farm. This role is cast with Joseph Matthew Galan. MARY SCHILLING LANSING – The youngest sister. Mid-40s, married to Peter, Katie’s mother, wants the most attention but never gets it. This role is cast with Tamara Ledyard. VIRGINIA SCHILLING – Late 40s, Robert’s salt-of-theearth country wife. Childless. This role is cast with Amy Davis. PETER LANSING – Mid40s, Mary’s husband, Wall Street executive, master of the universe. This role is cast with
Christopher Krause. MICHAEL LAWRENCE – 20, college student, socially awkward. This role is cast with Jason Krenek. KATIE LANSING – 17, prep school student. This role is cast with Delaney Cammack. NEWSCASTER – Recorded Voice-over of Michael Cammack. Director Kathleen Brown describes Subsistence as “an absolute pleasure to work on – Sally Jane Kerschen Sheppard wrote a script jam-packed with flawed, but lovable characters that run the gamut of the human experience.” Tickets are available online and at the door one hour prior to show time. For tickets go to https://www.kvpac.org/product-category/performance/. The show will be performed at the Fulshear United Methodist Church in Fulshear. KVPAC/Encore Arts is a 501c3 non-profit arts education organization serving the Katy/ Fulshear community since 2001,located at 7926 FM359 S, Fulshear TX 77441. Right, Joseph Matthew Galan and Amy Davis
Christopher Krause, Delaney Cammack, Tamara Ledyard
Sally Jane Kerschen Shepperd
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INDEPENDENT • AUGUST 7, 2019 • Page 8
NEWS Free Flu shots to benefit Santa’s Exchange at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 20,000 people a year. The vaccine is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B. Vaccination with the
flu vaccine may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will distribute a limited supply of the influenza vaccine to persons
age 18 and over with no history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome or rubber latex allergy and who are not pregnant.
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2018 Flu Shot Toy Drive volunteers With fall around the corner and the holiday season not far behind, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is once again offering Fort Bend and surrounding area residents the opportunity to donate a gift and receive a free flu shot. Houston Methodist Sugar Land, in collaboration with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Rotary Club of Fort Bend and Toys for Tots Fort Bend, is offering free flu shots on Saturday, Oct. 12 to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange. Fort Bend and surrounding area residents can bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item in exchange for a free flu shot. The toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area. “We are proud to partner
again with the local Exchange and Rotary clubs and Toys for Tots to provide this community offering,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land. “This is a great way for the community to stay healthy while also putting smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season.” In 2018, Santa’s Gift Exchange provided toys and clothing to nearly 5,000 economically disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. “Everyone’s assistance is needed to meet the challenge of providing toys for children who will not have toys this year without our help,” said Brad Porter, chairman of Santa’s Exchange 2019. “We look forward to partnering with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for a ninth year. This is a great collaboration; get a flu shot and
in return you are able to give back to the children in your community,” said Porter, a fourth year member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. “Our community is well known for its philanthropic values, so we encourage you to participate by dropping off toys or clothing even if you have already had your flu shot,” Siebenaler said. If you want to participate in this community event, please bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to the Brazos Pavilion Atrium of Houston Methodist Sugar Land between 8 a.m. and noon on Saturday, Oct. 12. One flu shot per unwrapped toy or clothing item. For more information, please visit events.houstonmethodist.org/flushot-sl or call 281.274.7976. No appointment is necessary. The flu kills as many as
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YOUR PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH EXPERIENCE is unique to you.
We make your experience as perfect as the moment. The recently expanded Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land is designed and staffed to provide all the support, guidance and expertise you and your baby need, from the first weeks of pregnancy through the big day and beyond. Amenities include: • Tranquil, private and family-centered labor and delivery suites • Dedicated obstetrical (OB) emergency rooms for rapid maternal assessment • 24/7 access to on-site board-certified OB-GYNs with specialized training in emergency care for moms and babies • NICU with 24/7 on-site neonatology providers to monitor high-risk and premature babies • Postpartum care, education and breastfeeding support • A variety of childbirth classes as well as guided tours of the facility To register for a Childbirth Center class or tour, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.205.4514.
16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479