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TriciaKrenek.com

E X P E R I E N C E ✯ T R U S T ✯ R E S U LT S email: editor@fbindependent.com

VOL 12 No. 44

Pd. Pol. Adv. by the Tricia Krenek Campaign

Phone: 281-980-6745

www.fbindependent.com

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2019

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Stafford

Catholic Charities honors Sugar Land resident

Catholic Charities President Cynthia N. Colbert, left, MSW, volunteer award recipient Christiane Galvani, Catholic Charities Board Chair Kevin K. Rech. Catholic Charities of the about volunteering, I did a Archdiocese of Galveston- lot of research to see which Houston presented its annual agencies are considered the Charity in Action Award to best at serving refugees,” said steadfast volunteer and Sugar Christiane. “Every source put Land resident Christiane Galvan. Catholic Charities at the top of The honor was announced at the the list.” agency’s 2019 Annual Meeting, One example of Christiane’s along with awards presented dedication was in her assistance to a corporation (Sysco) and a to a Burmese refugee client. parish, or church (Co-Cathedral She tutored him for almost of the Sacred Heart). one year to prepare him for Christiane was acknowledged his citizenship test, which he for her dedication to Catholic passed. Christiane gave him Charities’ Refugee Resettlement moral support by attending his Program, which welcomes and citizenship test, then attended assists newcomers to the United his Oath Ceremony to join him States as they begin life in a new in celebrating the significant culture. Christiane spends hours accomplishment. each month tutoring individuals “Christiane is tireless, patient and in English as a Second and encouraging with clients,” Language classes. said Cynthia N. Colbert, MSA, “When I was thinking president and CEO of Catholic

At the Monday, Oct. 21 Missouri City City Council Meeting, Mayor Yolanda Ford recognized Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for its 106 years of public service and numerous contributions to local communities throughout the world. Charities. “All of the clients she meets are grateful for her time and assistance. We cannot thank her enough for her help.” The Refugee Resettlement Program helps refugees and other government-approved new arrivals achieve economic self-sufficiency. The program addresses their immediate needs when they arrive in the U.S. and offers ongoing help while they adjust to their new life through cultural orientation, education and job development. “Catholic Charities brings us together to channel our collective compassion into meaningful action,” said Kevin K. Rech, board chair. “In the last year, we touched 97,000 lives, bringing help and hope to people in need.”

Missouri City City Council candidate’s residency comes under scrutiny

By SESHADRI KUMAR In Missouri City, where all four district incumbents are facing opponents, very little information is available about the candidates, other than the splashy election signs all over the city. The city website itself contains just the names of the people on the ballot and one has to search the Internet to find the websites of the candidates. In Dist. C, incumbent Anthony Maroulis faces three opponents, Raj Joseph, Steve Okoroha, S.A.M. Chatriwala. A reader brought to this newspaper’s attention that Steve Okoroha may not meet the residential requirement to be on the ballot since he should have been a resident of Missouri City for the past six months. Okoroha had registered to vote on March 6, 2018 from the address 7110 Sundance Meadows Lane, Richmond, TX 77047. Texas online shows his residence as of Aug. 15, 2019 at 1946 Lake Winds Dr., Missouri City, 77459. This is believed to be the home of Okoroha’s parents. The mailing address is 7110 Sundance Meadows Lane. Okoroha is an attorney and he should be aware of the election laws. He also may have proof to show that he resided in Missouri City for the last six months. An email was sent to Okoroha and a message was left on his voice mail. But, he has not responded yet. Interestingly enough, Breaking ground on Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s new Davis George Campus are Capital Okoroha’s website shows a Campaign Chair Nancy Olson, Building Campaign Chair Jim Lockwood, Board President Pat Somers and Child Advocates of Fort Bend Board CEO Ruthanne Mefford. Photo courtesy of Mary Favre. See Story on Page 3.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Launches ‘For The Children’s Sake’ Capital Campaign

video of his being sworn in as “candidate” for Missouri City Council taking oath while filing for the office. This appears like a trailer of the real swearing ceremony, yet to take place. According to his website, Steveoformocity.com, “Steve is a successful Nigerian-American attorney with a consistent record of serving his community “I grew up in Missouri City and I believe in helping hard working people achieve their goals, by improving this great district, together we can increase opportunities for everyone. “I’m here to stand with our communities and neighborhoods to make a difference and to create a sustainable environment for the next generation of Missouri City residents. I have spent the last few years helping the most vulnerable people through my work at Lone Star Legal Aid as a poverty law attorney as well as Pan-African Legal Services as an immigration Attorney, and I understand the challenges that many working families face. I’m running to keep this great city flourishing. As the founder of several non-profit organizations, I’ve always had a passion to lead and serve my community “I believe in a better Missouri City, I want to help residents by providing them access to good jobs because our city needs strong economic ties to build its workforce development “I am committed to advocating for developing resources to improve the local economy; he recognizes that

Sponsored by Serving Fort Bend County for 28 years!

small businesses are essential to economic development .”

Early voting data

In the first seven days of early voting in the Nov. 5 general election, a total of, 11,415 people have voted and another 1,028 people have returned mail-in ballots. Fort Bend County has 444,658 registered voters. There are no county wide races for any elected office, but there is a special election for Texas House Dist. 28, vacated by Dr. John Zerwas. Statewide, there are 10 Constitutional amendments on the ballot. Countywide, Fort Bend County has an $83 million flood mitigation bond. Consequently, the highest number of votes have been cast in the House Dist. 28 race, 5,883 people have voted early from Oct. 21 to Oct. 27. The next highest jurisdiction to get maximum votes is Houston Metro in which Missouri City voters participate. Here 2,313 have voted. A small portion of Houston city is in Fort Bend and in the Houston City Council election 687 have voted. Missouri City City Council has four district seats on the ballot and a total of 1,563 have voted in these races. A total of 1,353 have voted in the Sugar Land bond election. In terms of turnout at early voting locations, Cinco Ranch Library beats all locations with 2,675 votes cast and the next highest polling location was Fulshear with 934 votes.

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019

COMMUNITY

2019 Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball

Fort Bend County Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers, left, with guests.

Don McCoy, Andy Meyers and Ed Krenek.

On Saturday, October 19, 2019, an estimated 500 guests attended the fifth annual Fort Bend Ranchers’ ball at Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond. Hosted by Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers, the “cowboy chic” style ball included live entertainment from local favorite, Texas Swing Unlimited and a charity fundraiser, benefiting Fort Bend Charities, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable entity that provides financial support to various charities working to serve Fort Bend County including: • Combined Arms Veterans Association, a non-profit focused on assisting young men and women as they transition from the military to civilian life. • Katy Christian Ministries, a non-profit focused on assisting the most vulnerable in our community with a variety of social services, including a food pantry. • Simonton Christian Academy, which provides an outstanding educational experience to the youth of Simonton, Texas and the surrounding communities. • The Fort Bend Fair and Katy Future Farmers of America (FFA), which provides scholarships to local youth to help them further their education. • Other worthwhile charities that serve the residents of Fort Bend County. The event also spotlighted Briscoe Ranch and its contribution to the rich history of Fort Bend County since the mid-19th century. Commissioner Meyers appreciates the generosity of 2019 Ranchers’ Ball underwriters, Dannenbaum Engineering Corporation, and Johnson Development Corporation. He also gives a special thank you to Host Committee Chairs, Jon and Sue Strange, Jess and Terri Stuart and the entire event committee who put countless hours, creativity, and resources into making this year a success.

Andy Meyers with host committee chairs Jon and Sue Strange.

Olson defies the lame duck congressman monicker

While Washington is paralyzed with impeachment inquiries, it may look like there is no life elsewhere in America. On the other hand, when an astute politician like Congressman Pete Olson (R-Sugar Land), returns home during weekends from The Capitol, he defies the image of a lame duck Congressman. Far from counting days to his retirement, Olson is busy fighting like a bulldog, for some weighty issues and causes. Before the end of his tenure in Congress, Olson wants to accomplish certain goals like the release of six American CITGO executives jailed in Venezuela, implementation of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade, and making the tax cuts, due to expire in four years, permanent. At the local level, Olson

would like to help facilitate the transfer of defense department’s surplus vehicles (not military weapons) to the local law enforcement agencies for drug interdiction, fire fighting and disaster recovery. At the international level, Olson sees India and America as the defining forces in the world for peace and prosperity. He would like to see strengthening of the Indo-U.S. trade and energy cooperation. For example, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants clean fuel to replace coal and the U.S. can provide natural gas to substitute coal. India and U.S. should strengthen their joint efforts in fighting terrorism and both countries should conduct joint military exercises, according to Olson. Why is Olson taking up the issue of the 6 Americans wrongfully imprisoned in

options and losing their home was the next step since they could no longer afford to pay their respective mortgages. Because their names were not on the notes or they did not have the power of attorney, most of the spouses were denied loan modification applications with their banks, so the banks did not thoroughly review their cases. After the families submitted new loan modification applications, Olson submitted extensive inquiries to each bank to bring each family’s unique situation to its attention. Olson’s inquiries and multiple follow-up conversations with senior leadership at each bank led them to finally appreciate and understand the situation. The banks agreed to make an exception and approved a six-month forbearance on the mortgages. One bank also suppressed the credit reporting. The banks will review the situation again in January. Olson participated in a march at Candlelight Park in Houston on Oct. 13 to raise awareness about the Citgo 6 Venezuela by the despotic and demand their safe return socialist President Nicolás to the U.S. Maduro? Olson has posted a sign Five of the six executives’ outside his Washington, D.C. families are his constituents, office which is updated daily and they live in Sugar Land to show how long the men and Katy. have been jailed — 678 days The six Citgo executives as of Oct. 24. from Texas and Louisiana Wearing a shirt “Never went to Venezuela in 2017, give up,” Olson spoke on when state-owned oil and the floor of the House of gas company Petroleos de Representatives in support of Venezuela SA took control of the Citgo 6. He continues to its Houston-based subsidiary. work with President Donald Jorge Toledo, Gustavo Trump, Vice President Mike Cardenas, Jose Pereira, Tomeu Pence and Secretary of State Vadell and brothers Alirio Mike Pompeo to pressure and Jose Luis Zambrano Maduro into releasing the were arrested in Caracas, men. Venezuela, by the regime of The United States-MexicoNicolas Maduro for alleged Canada Agreement (USMCA) embezzlement of funds. is the most comprehensive Olson is working with State and high-standard trade Department officials in support agreement ever negotiated. of the Citgo 6 regarding their It fully updates, modernizes, health and well-being while in and rebalances the NAFTA detention. to meet the challenges of the Each family of the Citgo 21st century economy and to 6 had exhausted all financial ensure that American workers,

farmers, ranchers, and businesses, including smalland medium-sized enterprises, share in the benefits of the agreement. It will help drive economic prosperity, promote fairer and more balanced trade. Olson is hopeful the Congress will approve the bill. The agreement ensures that the workers in Mexico be paid fair wages as in the U.S. and that would ensure manufacturing does not move. Goods made outside the U.S. will not have the unfair advantage of low labor costs. USMCA’s Labor chapter makes new enforceable labor standards a core part of the agreement. This will help level the playing field for American workers and improve wages and labor conditions in North America.

North American trade in energy products is significant and growing. The USMCA provides a predictable framework for the United States, Mexico, and Canada to continue expanding this trade, which has been marked by rapidly increasing U.S. exports. Important improvements in USMCA will secure greater market access for America’s farmers. Innovative rules of origin will encourage more goods and materials to be manufactured in the United States and ensure the benefits of USMCA flow to North American workers. New customs and trade rules will cut red tape and make it easier for small businesses to tap into foreign markets and participate in cross-border trade.

U.S. Rep. Pete Olson gives a high-five to a young constituent at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Stafford on Oct. 20 during Diwali celebration.

NEWS

Missouri City’s top ISO rating helps keep insurance costs low By BARBARA FULENWIDER Missouri City Fire Department has excelled in its performance so much that the city is one of the few in the country which has earned the ISO 1 rating. Nationally, out of 41,177 cities, there are only 348 that have the top ISO 1 rating and Missouri City is one of them. Out of 2,852 cities in Texas, Missouri City is one of only 67 with the top rating. Missouri City’s fire chief, Eugene Campbell, was hired in 2016 and since then has led a department that includes fire prevention and risk reduction, emergency management, emergency medical response, development and training and is getting a new two-story fire department that includes administration. At a council meeting, Campbell made a PowerPoint presentation on the status of the department. The ISO rating is important because the rating keeps residents’ property insurance costs lower than the average. After Campbell took over as chief some of his community’s risks began to lessen. During his first year on the job in September there were 900 inspections, 15 investigations, 270 building plan reviews and 269 fire plan reviews.

From 2017-18 inspections dipped a bit to 898; investigations went to 21; building plan reviews surged to 336 thanks to the city’s growth; and fire plan reviews to 331. In 2018-19 inspections went down to 871, investigations to 5, building plan reviews to 331 and fire plan reviews to 279. The chief set performance measures in fiscal year 2019 at 90% for each measure. Actual time for dispatch was 1.30 minutes or 71%; turn out dispatch to enroute went to 2 minutes or 87.50%; enroute response was 5 minutes to 64.50% and total time 8:30 minutes for 74.28%. Incidents in 2017 were 3,657 or 61.92% for EMS; 205 or 3.47% for fire, 2,044 or 34.61% for others all of which came to a total of 5,906. In fiscal year 2018 there were a total of 6,032 incidents with EMS having the most at 3,814 or 62.23%. Fires numbered 207 for 3.43% and others came in at 2,011 for 33.34%. In FY2019 the total number of calls was 6,933. The EMS count was 4,299 or 62.01% and was followed by 228 or 3.29% of fires and 2,406 or 34.70% was for others. Fire incidents were 136 and structure fires 92. Types of calls or “others” were false

Capital campaign for children

Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) has launched an $8 million capital campaign to completely remodel and expand its building. CAFB has experienced 53% growth in the past 5 years in the number of children who have been abused or neglected receiving services. The first step after a child discloses abuse is the opportunity to tell their story in a safe place. At CAFB, a team of highly-trained forensic interviewers conduct 1,500 – 2,000 interviews of children annually and coordinate a joint investigation with a team of professionals including Children’s Protective Services (CPS) and Law Enforcement. Following an interview, children receive a variety of services including medical exams, therapy and case management. With this huge influx, many children have been forced to wait six to eight weeks to receive the services they desperately need for healing, including therapy. “We have been challenged by this increase in children and after careful consideration, we are responding with the largest initiative in our history – the remodel and expansion of our building and creation of a new 10,000 square foot Children’s Advocacy Center with double the space, an expanded CASA Wing and new Training and Volunteer Learning center.“The increase in growth is attributable to several factors,” stated Child Advocates of Fort Bend CEO Ruthanne Mefford. “Fort Bend is one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S. It is estimated that one in 4 girls and one is six boys has been sexually abused by the age of 18 so with an increase in population, you would expect to have more children being impacted. Other contributing factors include social media and online solicitation of children, the fact that the greater Houston area is the top area in the nation for sex trafficking of minors and the “Me Too” movement which is giving children the courage to speak up. “CAFB launched its most aggressive public awareness campaign in 2018 and reached more than 17,000 students and 1,000 educators. As a result, more children are coming forward and disclosing. Finally, State Bill 1806 which passed in 2018 requires that all children who have made an outcry of abuse must be referred for services at an accredited Children’s Advocacy Center and CAFB is the only such center in Fort Bend County. “The combination of all of these factors has resulted in a dramatic uptick in the number of children we are seeing and is causing a strain on our ability to deliver services, which is why we decided to launch the campaign.” The new campus will include 9,000 additional square feet to double the space needed for forensic interview rooms and therapy rooms. It will completely renovate its current 18,000 sq. feet and provide room for 25 additional staff members and many more volunteer advocates. The project architect is Gensler and Forney Construction is building the project. The Project Manager is Darrell Roth of RMG. “We are here so that no child falls through the cracks in Fort Bend County,” said Mefford. “This newly remodeled and expanded building will double the number of children we can serve over the next five years to over 5,000 children annually.” To fund construction and expanded operations, CAFB launched a Capital Campaign called For The Children’s Sake chaired by Nancy Olson with counsel from Dini Spheris. To date, CAFB has raised $6.9 million toward the campaign’s goal of $8 million. 100% of its Board of Directors and 100% of staff have made a financial commitment. In late 2018, The George Foundation quietly kicked off the campaign with a $2 million grant commitment. Additional generous supporters include Houston Endowment, Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, BGE, Madison Charitable Foundation, Inc., Sprint Waste, OCuSOFT and Gulf Coast Medical Foundation. “We need the community to step up now more than ever. While we have had some very significant gifts, every dollar counts,” said Olson. “We are all collectively trying to reach this goal and this new facility and the expansion of our services will only make our entire community stronger.” Naming opportunities for rooms, building wings and outdoor spaces are available. For more information about the campaign or how you can make a gift, please contact Jessica Jubin, Development Officer & Campaign Manager jjubin@cafb.org (281) 344-5136.

alarms, hazard conditions, non-emergency service calls and good intent and weather related calls. The original 2017 fire department budget was $8,435,420 and revised to $8,465,920. The FY2018 budget was originally $8,151,091 and revised to $10,222,533 because council added a 3-month extension in order to change the date of the city’s fiscal year budget from July to September. The FY 2019 fire department’s budget was originally $9,043,133 and is pending. A new engine and tower are currently being built and have a delivery date of December 2019. Fire Station 1 renovations for FY 2019 include bathrooms and offices and 2 dorms in 2020. Fire stations 3 and 4 will also get renovations in 2020.

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 3

FBISD gives pay raise, extends superintendent’s contract

FBISD Board of Trustees met October 23 and, after conducting its annual Superintendent Summative Evaluation, voted to extend Dr. Charles Dupre’s contract. The amended contract also increases Dupre’s base salary by $13,520, bringing his annual base salary to $363,911. “We are thankful to have Dr. Dupre leading Fort Bend ISD, and our Board looks forward to our continued work together as a team of eight,” said FBISD Board President Jason Burdine. “This contract amendment provides a competitive salary that is reflective of the District’s accomplishments under Charles’ leadership.” Dr. Dupre was named FBISD superintendent in April of 2013. In 2018, the District was named the Best Large School District in the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards.

Dupre Most recently, Dupre was named a statewide finalist for the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Superintendent of the Year Award, and all FBISD campuses met the 2019 accountability standard set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). A total of 48 received dis-

tinctions, and ten FBISD campuses had significant growth, progressing from a D or F to a B or C. Dupre’s amended contract also includes an increase of $5,000 in additional compensation that will go toward Dr. Dupre’s supplemental retirement plan, raising the annual contribution from $20,000 to $25,000. Dupre’s last compensation increase came nearly two years ago, in October 2017. Prior to the 2019-20 school year, all non-teaching staff in the District received a compensation increase that amounted to five percent of mid-point, an increase that Dupre did not receive at the time. The amended contract is available on the website, fortbendisd.com.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on September 24, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in November, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

09-DCV174844 06/20/19

066000000036090 6 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. LUISA 1.98 ACRES MORE OR LESS, SAM MALDONADO DEGOLLADO, STONE SURV, ABST 660, CLERK'S AKA LOUISE MALDONADO FILE# 20140419710* DEGOLLADO, ET AL

$34,610.00

$24,300.00

14-DCV215023 02/15/19

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. JUAN M. CORNEJO, ET AL

LOT 2, BLK 1, FORSTER SUB'D, SLIDE NO. 1606/B*

$40,530.00

$8,800.00

16-DCV233365 08/09/19

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. MABLE LEE ROBERTS, ET AL

RIVERSIDE TERRACE SEC 2, BLK 1, LT 35, VOL 359, PG 399*

$44,400.00

$8,900.00

18-DCV255326 05/16/19

886500004002290 1 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019 761002001035090 1 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019 017000000291090 7 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. MARIBEL RIVERA NIETO

MANUEL ESCALERO SURV, 0.158 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, ABST 170, CLERK'S FILE# 2010080599*

$3,350.00

19-DCV260703 07/17/19

396500000004090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. GEORGE R. GALETKA, ET AL 1 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

J. D. VERMILLION SURV, 0.836 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, ABST 340, VOL 356, PG 30*

$102,980.00

$10,100.00

19-DCV261888 08/06/19

005803920001490 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 8 VIVIANN CRUZ SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

ISAAC MCGARY LEAGUE, 3.000 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, ABST 58, CLERK'S FILE# 2017121487*

$110,950.00

$4,000.00

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs. RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, September 24, 2019 Constable Mike Beard Fort Bend County, Texas By Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value. However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 4

Rosenberg Railroad Museum Honors Tower 17 Operators The Rosenberg Railroad Museum held its annual Garden

Party on Sunday, October 13th. The weather was uplifting and warm – much like the mood since the Museum was honored to recognize former Tower 17 Operators at the event. The Tower was active from 1903 – 2004, and is an important part of Rosenberg’s railroading history. Operators in attendance had a great time reminiscing and catching up, since many had not seen each other since the Tower ceased operations in 2004. According to museum Executive Director, Tracy Hobdy, “the Museum’s Garden Party was more than just a fundraiser this year – it was a time to interact with the history of our town! I am so glad the Operators were able to join us.” Musicians Will Carter and Kirk Roberts entertained guests while Ol’ Railroad Café provided unique wines for a tasting. Guests also enjoyed appetizers from Swinging Door Bar-BQue, Ol’ Railroad Café, the Brookie Man, and Another Time Soda Fountain. Hobdy added, “We are very thankful for the support of our many sponsors. This event is a fundraiser for the Museum and wouldn’t be possible without them!” Event sponsors include: Gurecky Manufacturing, NewQuest Properties, Greg & Brenda Cauthen, SPCO Credit Union, Texas State Technical College, Wharton County Junior College, the City of Rosenberg Main Street Program, NewFirst National Bank, State Farm Insurance Agent - Janice Vyoral, Russell & Debbie Straw, Another Time Soda Fountain, and Jeffrey McClellan, CPA.

COMMUNITY

American Association of University Women Fort Bend Branch AAUW Program on Nov. 14: Kay James and Sue Hauenstein will introduce Fort Bend CAN on Nov. 14 at the Wharton County Junior College, 14004 University Blvd. Sugar Land at 7 p.m. Social hour will start at 6:30 p.m. Conducted by American Association of University Women Fort Bend Branch, the event is free and open to the public at the Brazos Hall, Room 281, WCJC, Sugar Land. Lessons Learned from Organizing on the Suburban Front: How Fort Bend Community Action Network (FBCAN) Came To Be.

Tower 17 operators

CONSTABLE’S 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 23rd day of AUGUST, 2019, in a certain cause number 18-DCV-253187 wherein LAKEMONT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff , and BARBARA ADIKINYI AND SAIDI NUSURA, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 26th day of APRIL, 2019, in favor of the said plaintiff LAKEMONT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. against said defendant BARBARA ADIKINYI AND SAIDI NUSURA, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, for the sum of $2,481.26 FOR UNPAID ASSESSMENTS AND CHARGES THAT ACCRUED ON DEFENDANTS’ ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT THROUGH MARCH 17, 2019 ; JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, REASONABLE AND NECESSARY ATTORNEY’S FEES FOR LEGAL SERVICES RENDERED IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,531.00, AND LEGAL EXPENSES/COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,208.00 INCURRED ON BEHALF OF PLAINTIFF IN THIS MATTER; JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, INTEREST ON ALL AMOUNTS AWARDED IN THIS JUDGMENT AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM FROM THE DATE OF THIS JUDGMENT UNTIL PAID IN FULL, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $0.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 5th day of NOVEMBER, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of BARBARA ADIKINYI AND SAIDI NUSURA, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of BARBARA ADIKINYI AND SAIDI NUSURA, JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 35, BLOCK 03, OF LAKEMONT RIDGE, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, UNDER PLAT NO. 20070045, AS MODIFIED BY ANY SUPPLEMENTS THERETO OR REPLATS THEREOF DATE OF SALE: NOVEMBER 5, 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 $2,481.26 FOR UNPAID ASSESSMENTS AND CHARGES THAT ACCRUED ON DEFENDANTS’ ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT THROUGH MARCH 17, 2019 ; JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, REASONABLE AND NECESSARY ATTORNEY’S FEES FOR LEGAL SERVICES RENDERED IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,531.00, AND LEGAL EXPENSES/ COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,208.00 INCURRED ON BEHALF OF PLAINTIFF IN THIS MATTER; JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY, INTEREST ON ALL AMOUNTS AWARDED IN THIS JUDGMENT AT THE RATE OF 5% PER ANNUM FROM THE DATE OF THIS JUDGMENT UNTIL PAID IN FULL, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $0.00 dollars, in favor of LAKEMONT 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 OCTOBER 9, 2019

Kay and Sue will discuss the evolution of a small Facebook group, which began with eight people and has now has over 1200 members. FBCAN is not only a Facebook group; it also provides non-partisan information and civics education to the Fort Bend community. For more info. e-mail fortbendtx@aauw.net, website http:// fortbend-tx.aauw.net/.

CONSTABLE’S 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 9th day of OCTOBER, 2019, in a certain cause number 14-DCV-214352 wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. plaintiff , and JULIE MCKELLAR, MARK MCKELLAR AND INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 5th day of JUNE, 2015, in favor of the said plaintiff WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. against said defendant JULIE MCKELLAR, MARK MCKELLAR AND INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, for the sum of $471,804.11, AS OF FEBRUARY 25, 2015, WITH INTEREST ACCRUING AT THE PER DIEM RATE OF $32.45 THROUGH THE DATE OF THIS ORDER ; POST-JUDGEMENT INTEREST SHALL ACCRUE ON THE BALANCE AT A RATE OF 5% AS MANDATED BY THE OFFICE OF CONSUMER CREDIT COMMISSIONER; ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED THAT ORDER OF SALE SHALL PROVIDE THAT PLAINTIFF, IT’S SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, HAVE THE RIGHT TO BECOME THE PURCHASER OF THE PROPERTY AT THE SALE CONDUCTED PURSUANT TO THE ORDER OF SALE, AND PLAINTIFF, IT’S SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO CREDIT UPON AMOUNT OF THE BID MADE TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO SATISFY SUCH BID, THE AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT OWING TO PLAINTIFF, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $0.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 5th day of NOVEMBER, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of JULIE MCKELLAR, MARK MCKELLAR AND INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of JULIE MCKELLAR, MARK MCKELLAR AND INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT FOUR (4), IN BLOCK TWO (2), OF CINCO RANCH WEST SEC. 17, A SUBDIVISION ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED UNDER SLIDE NO. 2328A AND B, OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS DATE OF SALE: NOVEMBER 5, 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 judg ment for $471,804.11, AS OF FEBRUARY 25, 2015, WITH INTEREST ACCRUING AT THE PER DIEM RATE OF $32.45 THROUGH THE DATE OF THIS ORDER ; POST-JUDGEMENT INTEREST SHALL ACCRUE ON THE BALANCE AT A RATE OF 5% AS MANDATED BY THE OFFICE OF CONSUMER CREDIT COMMISSIONER; ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED THAT ORDER OF SALE SHALL PROVIDE THAT PLAINTIFF, IT’S SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, HAVE THE RIGHT TO BECOME THE PURCHASER OF THE PROPERTY AT THE SALE CONDUCTED PURSUANT TO THE ORDER OF SALE, AND PLAINTIFF, IT’S SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO CREDIT UPON AMOUNT OF THE BID MADE TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO SATISFY SUCH BID, THE AMOUNT OF THE JUDGMENT OWING TO PLAINTIFF, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $0.00 dollars, in favor of WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. 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 OCTOBER 9, 2019

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.

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 5

NEWS

Sugar Land’s AAA bond rating affirmed; Refunding bonds yield savings

Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings both affirmed Sugar Land’s “AAA” bond rating in connection with the issuance of General Obligation (GO) and refunding bonds approved by City Council on Oct. 15. The city sold $21.6 million in GO Improvement and Refunding Bonds, as planned in the fiscal year 2020 budget. Refunding bonds refinance existing bonds to capture interest savings, thereby lowering the cost of borrowing funds. The GO bonds refinance $13.6 million in currently outstanding debt to achieve savings of more than $1 million over the next seven years. The refunding was completed along with $10.26 million in GO bonds, wrapping up the remaining voter-approved bonds from 2013. The three park projects to be funded from this issue Ditch H Trail; First Colony Trail; and Brazos River Park, Phase II - are in the fiscal

year 2020 budget approved in September. City Council increased the 2019 homestead exemption from 10 to 12 percent to offset the property tax impact to residents. The city also issued $16.7 million in certificates of obligation to fund priority projects that are ready for construction and approved in the fiscal year 2020 budget. Projects include drainage improvements, pavement rehabilitation and facility rehabilitation. The “AAA” rating is the highest rating a bond can carry and represents a bond with minimal risk due to the strong financial management practices of the city. Standard & Poor’s rating reflects the city’s overall strong budget monitoring that has historically yielded consistent and positive budgetary performance. Fitch recognized the city’s strong operating performance supported by its ability to raise revenues, solid expendi-

Central Fort Bend Chamber hosts “Success in 60: The working power hour” The Central Fort Bend Chamber is excited to announce that J.P. Anders, Grants Coordinator of Congressman Pete Olson’s office, will be the guest speaker at its upcoming Success in 60: The Working Power Hour. Success in 60 focuses on educational topics for small businesses. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 7, 2019, at 11:30am in the Conference Room of the Central Fort Bend Chamber in Rosenberg, Texas. The cost of the luncheon is $25 for Chamber members, $30 for non-member non-profits and $35 for non-members. Ever wonder how your Federal government supports nonprofits, local governments and small businesses? Join us for a presentation by J.P. Anders as he delves into the world of the Federal Grant System. Anders’ presentation will include an overview of the Federal Grant system, a step-by-step walkthrough of the application process, state and local resources and tools and tips for your application. To register for the seminar lunch, visit www.cfbca.org or call the Central Fort Bend Chamber at 281-342-5464 or email Leslie at lpiwowar@cfbca.org.

Military Reservists and Servicemembers can find jobs in the Trucking Industry WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today announced that it has published a new job opportunities website to help 18-20-year-olds who possess the U.S. military equivalent of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) find and apply for jobs with interstate trucking companies. “Our country has a shortage of truck drivers. This resource will help military service members translate their training into good-paying jobs safely operating commercial vehicles across the country,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. The website features motor carriers throughout the country who are seeking to hire 18-20-year-old drivers as part of FMCSA’s Under 21 Military Driver Pilot Program, which was announced in June 2019. Interested service members, reservists, National Guard, active duty, or military veterans who possess the equivalent of a CDL can use the job listing resource to learn more about job opportunities that are available with participating motor carriers. The online job opportunities listing page can be found at: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/under21militaryjobs FMCSA’s pilot program will allow a limited number of individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 to operate large trucks in interstate commerce. During the pilot program, which is slated to run for up to three years, the safety records of these drivers will be compared to the records of a control group of drivers to help determine whether age is a critical safety factor. “We are excited to offer this resource to help military servicemembers find jobs in the trucking industry. With our country’s economy growing at record pace, we know motor carriers around the country are looking to hire skilled drivers. We encourage servicemembers and reservists to visit this online directory and look for a trucking job today,” said FMCSA Deputy Administrator Jim Mullen. FMCSA’s Under 21 Pilot Program is being launched at a time of sustained job growth for the U.S. economy. The September U.S. Department of Labor jobs report indicated that the national unemployment rate has fallen to a 50 year low of 3.5%. To learn more about the Under 21 Pilot Program and how to apply, visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/under21pilot/under21-pilot-program. For complete information on USDOT’s programs to help veterans transition into civilian careers, visit: https://www. transportation.gov/veteranstransportationcareers.

ture flexibility and strong operating performance. “The city’s strong budget management practices are evidenced by reserve replenishment during periods of economic expansion and no deferral of required spending,” wrote Fitch. “Management also has a history of prompt responses to changing economic conditions.” The affirmation of the AAA rating recognizes the commitment by City Council and staff to ensure sound financial oversight of city resources. “The AAA bond ratings reflect an independent assessment and a high confidence in the city’s ability to manage its finances,” said City Manager Allen Bogard. “The AAA rating allows us to borrow at the lowest rates available and generate additional savings through refunding issues, allowing us to consistently maintain one of the lowest tax rates in the state and provide the high-quality services that our residents expect.” The Sugar Land 4B Corporation also issued $24.7 million in refunding bonds on Oct. 15, netting $5.4 million in debt service savings during the next 16 years. The savings is equal to 16.9 percent of the refunded principal on a present value basis - well above the 3 percent savings threshold identified by the city’s financial policies.

The 4B Corporation is funded through a one-quarter of one percent sales tax for economic development approved by voters in 1995 and carries its own bond ratings, affirmed by Standard & Poor’s at A+ and Moody’s Investors Service at Aa3. The city’s focused but aggressive economic development program helps to grow commercial property tax values with the goal of benefitting residents through investment of restricted revenues in new quality of life amenities and ultimately supporting the city’s ability to maintain one of the lowest tax rates in the state of Texas among similarly-sized cities. Moody’s rating commentary reflects positive growth in the local economy with a favorable debt service coverage with dedicated sales tax revenues. Savings from the 4B refunding issue must be used in accordance with allowable uses for the economic development sales tax. All three bond issues received significant interest from the municipal bond markets, achieving historically low interest rates that were available on the day of the sale. Low interest rates translate into savings from the refunding transactions, which means that residents benefit through lower costs for projects.

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF FORT BEND § By virtue of an Order of Sale dated August 28, 2019, delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the County Court at Law 3 of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of WATERBROOK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC., plaintiff, and against DWIGHT SEAN JONES, defendant, in Cause No. 18-CCV-063177, for the sum of NINE-THOUSAND-SEVENHUNDRED FIFTY- ONE- DOLLARS AND 69/100’s CENTS ($9751.69), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale. I did on the 9 day of SEPT, 2019, at 3:00PM:, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of DWIGHT SEAN JONES, defendant(s), to-wit:ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT, TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND,CONTAINING 2.65 ACRES,MORE OR LESS,OUT OF MOSES SHIPMAN LEAGUE SURVEY, ABSTRACT NO.86 AND BEING PART OF A CERTAIN 63.42 ACRE TRACT OF LAND DESCRIBED BY DEED RECORDED IN VOLUME 725,PAGE 326 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY,TEXAS, ALSO BEING A PART OF CERTAIN 489.138 ACRE TRACT AS DESCRIBED BY DEED RECORDED IN VOLUME 24 PAGE 484, OF THE DEED RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY ,TEXAS AND BEING ALL OF THOSE CERTAIN THREE TRACTS OF LAND KNOWN AS TRACT 1, TRACT II, AND TRACT 02 OF WATERBROOK(AN UNRECORDED SUBDIVISION)IN FORT BEND COUNTY, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DECSRIBED BY METES AND BOUNDS IN EXHIBIT A OF THAT CERTAIN QUIT CLAIM DEED RECORDED UNDER COUNTY CLERK’S FILE NO.2018027553 COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4602 MCKEEVER LANE, MISSOURI CITY,TX 77459 and on NOV 5, 2019, being the first Tuesday of said month, between the hours of 10:00 o’clock a.m. and 4:00 o’clock p.m., at 301 JACKSON ST, FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG RICHMOND TX. I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of DWIGHT SEAN JONES, defendant, in and to said property. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING RM RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: NOV 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

CONSTABLE’S SALE Notice is hereby Given, that by virtue of a certain ORDER OF SALE Issued by the Clerk of the 458TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court of FORT BEND County, on the 27th day of AUGUST, 2019, in a certain cause number 18-DCV-251066 wherein COMMUNITY OF BRADFORD PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. plaintiff, and TERRANCE D MATHIS defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 30th day of OCTOBER, 2018, in favor of the said plaintiff COMMUNITY OF BRADFORD PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC against said defendant TERRANCE D MATHIS, for the sum of $5,436.04 ; AS PAST DUE ASSESSMENTS, CHARGES, INTEREST AND COSTS; $1,200.00 FOR REASONABLE AND NECESSARY ATTORNEY’S FEES INCURRED IN THIS CAUSE OF ACTION; ALL COSTS OF COURT; 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, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $330.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 5th day of NOVEMBER, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of TERRANCE D MATHIS in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of TERRANCE D MATHIS to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 4, BLOCK 6, BRADFORD PARK SEC, 1 AN ADDITION TO FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT NUMBER 20050034, OF THE PLAT RECORDS, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS (THE “PROPERTY”) DATE OF SALE: NOVEMBER 5, 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- $1,900.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment for $5,436.04 ; AS PAST DUE ASSESSMENTS, CHARGES, INTEREST AND COSTS; $1,200.00 FOR REASONABLE AND NECESSARY ATTORNEY’S FEES INCURRED IN THIS CAUSE OF ACTION; ALL COSTS OF COURT; 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, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $330.00 dollars, in favor of COMMUNITY OF BRADFORD PARK 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 OCTOBER 9, 2019

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 6 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Aliana, Section 65, and West Aliana Trace Street Dedication Section 5, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for FBISD Middle School #13 on Beechnut (small portion of Marsh Flower Ln), and all school signage, 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.

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Submitted by,

Fort Bend ISD awarded grant to fund campus mental health centers Fort Bend ISD has been awarded a grant from the Governor’s Criminal Justice Division to establish eight schoolbased mental health centers at campuses in the Hightower, Marshall and Willowridge high school feeder patterns. The nearly $1.5 million grant was awarded under the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 (VOCA) and will be used to cover the cost of the mental health clinics startup as well as for the therapeutic services the clinic staff will provide. All District students, parents, and staff who have been victims of crimes, including

Submitted by,

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Grand Mission Estates, Sec. 25, Precinct 4. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Harvest Green, Sec. 27, 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

COMMUNITY

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Lamar CISD Carter Elementary School (Stonecreek Estates Drive), Precinct 1. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Sienna Plantation, Section 16, Precinct 1. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Submitted by,

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the proposed address range change for Randon Dyer Road between US 90A W and SH 36 W, in coordination with the City of Rosenberg and CenterPoint, Precinct 1. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Submitted by,

victims of domestic violence, witnesses to a crime, those impacted by crime and victims of bullying, can receive counseling and therapeutic services from licensed clinicians at no charge. Individuals who have not been victims of crime may use Medicaid or their private insurance to cover the cost of service. Like with physical health, providing for students’ mental health needs is important we want to make sure all our students are mentally and physically healthy so they are ready to learn. In establishing good academic habits and developing attributes associated with the District’s Profile of a Graduate, this initiative aligns with the District’s goal to support the whole child in healthy development. “Mental health is a growing challenge that our students, teachers, campuses, and families are facing. It impacts academic success, attendance, and social functioning at school and in the home. The

City of Missouri City LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Stonecreek Estates, Section 3, Precinct 1. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Trails of Katy, Sec.1, Precinct 3. The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.

Submitted by,

******* OPENING DATE OF November 12, 2019 AT 2:00 pm. ******* Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 20-312) Term Contract for City Wide, Off-Site Vehicle and Large Engine Repair Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the IFB name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of City of Missouri City Attn: Purchasing Office IFB No. 20-312 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 readvertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on September 30, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in November, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale # 1

Cause # Judgment Date 15-DCV221298 08/09/19

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

589001005007090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. PAUL 7 LEE CONWAY, ET AL SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

Legal Description LT 7, BLK 5, QUAIL RUN, SEC 1, VOL 21, PG 25*

Adjudged Value $149,400.00

Estimated Minimum Bid $38,000.00

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs. RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, September 30, 2019 Constable Daryl L. Smith, Sr Fort Bend County, Texas By Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value. However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

campus-based mental health services will remove barriers to provide direct support for those in the most need,” said Steve Shiels, FBISD’s Director of Behavioral Health and Wellness. This exciting op-

portunity will be lead by district staff, in collaboration with, community partners. The District hopes to make these services available on campuses in early January 2020.

Precinct 4 Constables get body cameras

Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has approved to provide Precinct 4 Constables body cameras for use while on duty. Precinct 4 Commissioner, Ken R. DeMerchant announced that Fort Bend County Precinct 4 will be the first in the County to take this important step towards the safety of both residents and Constables serving them. Public safety is one of Commissioner DeMerchant’s primary focuses. He found innovative solutions where no property taxes or general funds were used in the purchase of the cameras. “I am excited that we found a way to fund this pilot without using property taxes or general funds so that our Precinct 4 Constables and residents can utilize new technology for the safety of our community,” he stated. DeMerchant Community Collaborative Project Green“Precinct 4 Trees” Commissioner Ken R. DeMerchant is pleased to announce “Precinct 4 Trees”. This DeMerchant Community Collaborative (DCC) Project Green goal is to maximize access to trees and their environmental and aesthetic benefits. DeMerchant states his vision is “to plant two trees for every one tree lost or cut down and to ensure a greener future for our children and grandchildren within Precinct 4.” The first initiative will provide 30 oak trees to be planted along the public Right-of-Way in Commonwealth. DeMerchant is currently working with other neighborhoods and planning to expand throughout Precinct 4. DeMerchant believes in making Fort Bend County a cleaner, more energy efficient, and vibrant community. CITY OF STAFFORD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the City of Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas and before the City Council of the City of Stafford, Texas on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas for the purpose of receiving testimony for and against the following: A proposal to adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 82 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the Subdivision Ordinance. Copies of the amendment are available for public inspection at City Hall. All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard. /s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION TO: FERNANDO HERNANDEZ-ROMERO PRO LAS FUENTES APT #3304 SOPAPAN JL MEXICO 45080 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 November 18, 2019 a default judgment may be taken against you. The case is presently pending before the 434TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 18-DCV-255854 and is styled: The State of Texas VS. $112,540.00 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 to-wit: THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREINABOVE WAS SEIZED BY PEACE OFFICERS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS. THE STATE OF TEXAS IS ENTITLED TO HAVE SUCH PROPERTY FORFEITED AND TITLE RENDERED TO THE STATE OF TEXAS OR AN AGENCY OF THE STATE OR A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION AUTHORIZED TO EMPLOY PEACE OFFICERS. WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, PETITIONER RESPECTFULLY PRAYS THAT UPON HEARING, THIS COURT ENTER A JUDGMENT OF FORFEITURE OF THE DESCRIBED PROPERTY TO PETITIONER, THAT THIS COURT AWARD POSSESSION AND TITLE TO SUCH PROPERTY TO THE PETITIONER TO BE ADMINISTERED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 59 OF THE TEXAS CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE, FOR INTEREST, IF ANY, FROM THE DATE OF DEPOSIT IN AN INTEREST BEARING ACCOUNT, FOR COST OF COURT AND FOR SUCH OTHER AND FURTHER RELIEF AS THE PETITIONER MY SHOW ITSELF TO BE ENTITLED. If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved. Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 3rd day of October, 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 Street, Room 101 Richmond, Texas 77469 BEVERLEY MCGREW WALKER, DISTRICT CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Physical Address: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 31004, Richmond, Texas 77469 Mailing Address: 301 Jackson Street, Room 101 Richmond, Texas 77469 By: Deputy District Clerk SHELBY TAYLOR Telephone: (281) 633-7613

CONSTABLE’S 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 28th day of AUGUST, 2019, in a certain cause number 14-DCV-220078 wherein WESTHEIMER LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION plaintiff , and KRISTINE MARIE DASILVA defendant, in which cause a judgment was rendered on the 9th day of AUGUST, 2015, in favor of the said plaintiff WESTHEIMER LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION against said defendant KRISTINE MARIE DASILVA, for the sum of $8,318.54 ; FOR PAST DUE ANNUAL MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENTS, INTEREST AND OTHER CHARGES ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT OF THE PROPERTY; REASONABLE ATTORNEY’S FEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,577.00; ADDITIONAL ATTORNEY REASONABLE FEES AND COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00; COSTS OF COURT IN THE AMOUNT OF 10% PER ANNUM ON THE TOTAL JUDGMENT, INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES AWARDED HEREIN, FROM THE DATE THIS JUDGMENT IS SIGNED UNTIL FULLY PAID;, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $450.00, together with all costs of suit, I levied upon, and will, on the 5th day of NOVEMBER, 2019 within legal hours, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of KRISTINE MARIE DASILVA in and to the following described REAL property, levied upon as the property of KRISTINE MARIE DASILVA to wit: PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT TWO (2), IN BLOCK ONE (1), OF CANYON GATE AT WESTHEIMER LAKES, SECTION ONE, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT RECORDED IN VOLUME 2005, PAGE 209 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 11107 CANYON CROSSING LANE, RICHMOND TX 77406 (PROPERTY); DATE OF SALE: NOVEMBER 5, 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- $5430.00 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judg ment for $8,318.54 ; FOR PAST DUE ANNUAL MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENTS, INTEREST AND OTHER CHARGES ON THE ASSESSMENT ACCOUNT OF THE PROPERTY; REASONABLE ATTORNEY’S FEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,577.00; ADDITIONAL ATTORNEY REASONABLE FEES AND COSTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00; COSTS OF COURT IN THE AMOUNT OF 10% PER ANNUM ON THE TOTAL JUDGMENT, INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES AWARDED HEREIN, FROM THE DATE THIS JUDGMENT IS SIGNED UNTIL FULLY PAID;, AND THE FURTHER SUM OF $450.00 dollars, in favor of WESTHEIMER LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION 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 OCTOBER 9, 2019

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 7

COMMUNITY

FBJSL Event Beneficiary Applications Due June 1, 2020

Representatives of the beneficiaries of the 2018 Sugar Plum Market joined members of FBJSL and representatives of Memorial Hermann on December 14, 2018 to celebrate the Market’s record-breaking success. The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is currently accepting applications from charitable organizations interested in benefiting from an FBJSL event to be held in the 2019-2020 League year. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must have 501(c)(3) status, serve the Fort Bend community, and fit within the League’s mission, goals, and one or more position statements. FBJSL considers the specific needs of each qualified applicant and selects beneficiaries that it believes will thrive due to FBJSL support. Applications must be received on or before June 1, 2020. The application and accompanying instructions will be found on the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/request-support) after the conclusion of our 2019 Sugar Plum Market. Keep an eye on our website for details. All applications must be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com. Since its inception in 2001, FBJSL has raised over $4 million for local charities. Beneficiaries of the FBJSL’s 2018 Sugar Plum Market include: Abigail’s Place; Access Health; The ARC of Fort Bend County; Big Brothers Big Sisters; Boys & Girls Club of Greater Houston; Camp Kesem Rice; Catholic Charities; Child Advocates of Fort Bend; College Community Career; East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry; Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center; Fort Bend County Women’s Center; Fort Bend Rainbow Room; Gigi’s Playhouse; Hope for Three; Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land; Literacy Council of Fort Bend County; Lunches of Love; Parks Youth Ranch; Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship; SIRE Therapeutic Equestrian Center; Texana Center; The First Tee; The Rose; and YMCA. FBJSL is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, goodwill and camaraderie for all members. To learn more about FBJSL, please visit www.fbjsl.org.

Free Monthly Guided Bird Hikes at Seabourne Creek Nature Park

Guided bird hikes will be held at Seabourne Creek Park, at 3831 State Highway 36 South, Rosenberg on Nov. 6. All ages and levels of birders are welcome and should meet in the parking lot before 8 a.m. Binoculars and weather-appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended. Members of the Coastal Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists lead the hikes. Participation is open to the public. Turn in at the Texas Parks & Wildlife brown sign, which recognizes Seabourne Nature Park as earning a place on the Texas Coastal Birding Trail. More than 200 species of birds have been recorded at the park. Bob and Carol Schwartz organize the hikes which are usually also led by recognized birding expert, Mark Scheuerman, E-Bird compiler for this area of Texas. The Texas Master Naturalists program is sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. info@coastalprairie.org, website https://txmn. org/coastal/

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on September 26, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in November, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

17-DCV245071 04/12/19

000900000794490 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 7 GRANCELO RICHARDSON, ET SEPTEMBER 23, AL 2019

1.672 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, M.M. BATTLE SURV, ABST 9, LOT 7, VOL 265, PG 38* (ACCT NO. 0009000007944907 & 0009000007942907)*

$138,710.00

$28,100.00

18-DCV248943 06/12/19

001700037002390 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. LULA 1 JEAN OLIVER, ET AL SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

ISAAC N. CHARLES LEAGUE, ABST 17, CLERK'S FILE# 2010061344*

$119,820.00

$12,200.00

18-DCV253312 07/30/19

007600000056490 1 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

JOHN RANDON LEAGUE, ABST 76, TRACT 8 (PT), ACRES 0.8794, MORE OR LESS, VOL 686, PG 56 & CLERK'S FILE# 8768964*

$25,330.00

$16,900.00

18-DCV257925 06/25/19

870718001028090 7 SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

TELFAIR SEC 18, BLK 1, LT 28, REC'D IN PLAT# 20070157*

$667,030.00

$8,000.00

19-DCV259864 08/09/19

RICE SUBD, BLK 1, LT 5, VOL 321, PG 256*

$61,690.00

$7,800.00

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

FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT VS. HOA KHUONG BUI, INDIVIDUALLY & AS CO TRUSTEE OF THE NGUYEN-BUI REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, ET AL 734000001005091 FORT BEND COUNTY, ET AL VS. 4 JOSEPH SHALOW, AKA JOSEPH SEPTEMBER 23, SHALOW, SR., ET AL 2019

ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, September 26, 2019 Constable Wayne Thompson Fort Bend County, Texas By Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value. However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • OCTOBER 30, 2019 • Page 8

COMMUNITY

Fort Bend County pecan growers win big!

By BOONE HOLLADAY The 2018 state Pecan Show began at the county level and advanced to one of three regional pecan shows held in Brenham (East), Comanche (Central) and San Angelo (West). From these three events, only 200 entries advanced to the state Pecan Show held in Frisco on July 14th. Judges included Dr. Larry Stein, Dr. L.J. Grauke, Monte Nesbitt, and Bill Ree. East Region winners from Fort Bend County that qualified for state included Angie and Pete Pavlovsky, Liz and Joe Stegint, Barbara Gritczek, Steve Smith, left, Pete Pavlovsky, Angie Pavlovsky, Liz Stegint, Joe Stegint (rear), Carol Gub- Steve Smith, and Carol Gubbels. At state, Angie and Pete bels (front). (not pictured – Barbara Gritczek) won 1st and 3rd place ribbons for their Cape Fear variety. Liz and Joe Stegint won 1st place Elliot and Stuart varieties, and 3rd place for their Kiowa, Sioux, and ‘seedling’ varieties.

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Winning entries of the state pecan show are selected on their respective nut size, kernel percentage, color, uniformity, and freedom of external and internal defects. Good pecans require adequate water, sunlight, fertilizer, and must be protected from numerous leaf and nut attacking pests and diseases. To win at all three levels is a fantastic achievement whether the grower is a hobbyist or commercial farmer. Congratulations to all of our Fort Bend winners! This announcement comes just weeks away from this year’s pecan harvest and soon the Fort Bend County Extension will be taking entries for the 2019 County Pecan Show. Whether you manage a large pecan orchard or if you simply have one backyard tree you are proud of, you are encouraged to enter. You never know,

you and your pecans could become famous. For Pecan Show information, visit http:// fortbend.agrilife.org. The Fort Bend County Pecan Show judging is set for November 21 and 22, 2019 and all entries and winners will be exhibited at the 4th Annual Pecan Harvest Festival in Downtown Richmond on Sunday, November 24th from 11 am to 6 pm. Beyond the pecan and other agricultural exhibits, this free event has so much family fun to offer including live music, kids’ activities, food and beverage, a car show, a variety of vendors, and pecans… lots of pecans! For information, visit www.pecan-harvest-festival-tx.com. (Holladay is County Extension Agent, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension – Fort Bend County.)

Loving Friends

Loving Friends will meet for dinner and entertainment on Tuesday, November 19, arrival time, 5 p.m at Quail Valley City Cr., 2880 La Quinta Blvd., Missouri City. Vince Ramos, a local, professional musician and band leader will entertain the group. Ramos plays both accordian and saxophone while traveling in the musical instrument business. Loving Friends welcomes those who have lost their spouses but want to move on in their lives with like minded friends in a social environment, not a grief support group. The group meets monthly at Quail Valley Civic Center and also enjoys other monthly activities, including luncheons and the game pokemo. The cost for the monthly Vince Ramos dinner and entertainment is Reservations are required by ways greeted with a warm $24 inclusive, paid at the door calling 281-208-3124. New welcome in the Blue Bonnet room. members and guests are al-

No criminal charges coming against Bonnen Brazoria County District Attorney Jeri Yenne said today she did not have enough evidence to prosecute Texas House Speaker Dennis Bonnen for offers he made to a conservative political activist during a private — but secretly recorded — meeting on June 12. Yenne’s decision not to prosecute Bonnen on charges of bribery or solicitation of a gift by a public servant comes a day after Bonnen announced he would not run for a 12th term in the House, in effect giving up the speaker’s chair after a single term. Pressure on Bonnen began in late July when the activist, Michael Quinn Sullivan, CEO of Empower Texans, published an account of the meeting with Bonnen and Dustin Burrows, then-chairman of the House Republican Caucus. A week later, Sullivan disclosed that he had secretly taped the meeting and selected several people, including political allies, to listen to it. Early in the meeting, the recording shows, Bonnen eagerly solicited Sullivan’s help in working to defeat a list of incumbent House Republicans in exchange for arranging for Sullivan and writers for Empower Texans to get credentials to cover the next legislative session from the House floor. Three attorneys told The Texas Monitor they believe that Bonnen’s offer to Sullivan constituted misuse of public property — something of value offered in exchange for a personal benefit, in violation of the abuse of office chapter in the Texas Penal Code. The Texas House General Investigating Committee asked the Texas Rangers Public Integrity Unit to investigate the principals

involved in the meeting, listen to Sullivan’s recording and deliver their findings to the committee and to Yenne, the district attorney in Bonnen’s home county. In a statement issued today, Yenne thanked the Rangers for their work and professionalism. “As repugnant as Speaker Bonnen’s actions and statements are, I do not believe there is sufficient evidence from the June 12, 2019 meeting to warrant a criminal prosecution of Speaker Bonnen for bribery or solicitation of a gift by a public servant, therefore no criminal charges will be brought,” she wrote. Yenne said she met multiple times with investigators but failed to come up with enough evidence to charge Bonnen under Chapter 411 of the Texas Government Code, Title 8 of the Texas Penal Code or the election code, as those provisions relate to elected state officials. In her review of the investigation, Yenne called Bonnen’s conduct during the meeting with Sullivan “offensive, lacking in character and integrity, demeaning to other human beings, including local government officials, cities and counties, and the Members of the Texas House of Representatives who placed their confidence in Speaker Bonnen and are entitled to his respect.” With Sullivan’s public release of the recording last week, the Republicans on Bonnen’s hit list and several Democrats whom Bonnen had disparaged called for him to step down as speaker. The number of House Republicans calling for Bonnen’s resignation grew over the weekend and by Monday a majority of House members in his own party and committee chairs ap-

pointed by Bonnen had told him he should step down. “After much prayer, consultation, and thoughtful consideration with my family, it is clear that I can no longer seek re-election as state representative of District 25, and subsequently, as speaker of the House,” Bonnen said in a statement on Tuesday. With no charges against him, Bonnen can, unless he steps down voluntarily, continue to serve as speaker until a new one is elected on the first day of the next session, in January 2021. Bonnen, R-Angleton, will also continue to represent his district until the winner of the November 2020 election is sworn in. Yenne was also critical of Bonnen’s contemptuous remarks about local and county officials, whose ordinances and policies have been challenged in the past two sessions by conservative Republicans. Those issues include a fracking ban in Denton, several local bans on plastic bags and paid sick leave ordinances in Austin, Dallas and San Antonio. Bonnen’s — and Burrows’ — statements on the tape expressing ill will toward city and council officials “are disappointing and disturbing,” Yenne said. Yenne said the investigation results will also be “delivered to the House General Investigating Committee for an appropriate review.” It isn’t clear what action the committee can take. Bonnen’s statements on the tape seem to violate a House Republican Caucus rule against incumbent House members campaigning against one another, but there is some question about whether his actions are in some way punishable by the House administration. —The Texas Monitor