After two consecutive years of declining sales, the Houston housing market experienced modest growth in 2024. Homebuyers kept the resale and rental markets active despite fluctuating mortgage rates and higher home prices. As 2025 gets underway, steady demand and expanding inventory have set the stage for continued growth. According to HAR’s December/Full-Year 2024 Housing Market Update, total property sales were statistically flat compared to 2023. Single-family home sales rose 1.3 percent to 85,163. Total dollar volume for full-year 2024 climbed 3.1 percent to $41.1 billion versus $39.8 billion the prior year.
For December, single-family home sales saw double digit growth of 16.3 percent yearover-year. Most of the housing segments experienced increases, with the luxury segment - consisting of homes priced $1M and above – seeing the strongest increase in activity. Sales in this segment climbed 64.6 percent when compared to last December.
“Following two years of declining sales, 2024 brought a welcomed balance to the Houston housing market,” said HAR Chair Shae Cottar with LPT Realty. “While higher mortgage rates presented financial challenges for some consumers, the Houston market weathered these rate fluctuations better than many other regions across the country. I believe that the strong sales activity and expansive inventory we experienced in 2024 bodes well for home buyers and sellers in 2025.”
Houston’s rental market had a robust performance in 2024 as many prospective homebuyers waited to see if mortgage rates would stabilize. HAR will report on rental trends in the December 2024 Rental Market Update, which will be released on Wednesday, January 15.
2024 Annual Market Comparison
Volatile mortgage interest rates created a complex landscape for the Houston housing market during the first half of 2024. The year started on solid footing with steady sales, but there was a shift when the spring homebuying season got off to a sluggish start. Home sales were up and down through the spring and summer months. When the Federal Reserve implemented its first of three rate cuts in September to combat inflation, it provided a boost in confidence to prospective homebuyers, even though mortgage rates were not greatly impacted. However, rates did ease from the 20-year high of eight percent that was seen in 2023 to the high-six and seven percent range. Home sales topped 2023 levels from September through December.
Expanding inventory also helped fuel the increase in market activity, offering opportunities for buyers and sellers. At the outset of 2024, inventory was at a 3.2-months supply.
Applications open for Sugar Land revitalization programs
Community Reports
Applications for Sugar Land’s Great Homes Update Program and Commercial Revitalization Grant are now open. Both grant programs are part of initiatives intended to foster redevelopment in Sugar Land’s residential and commercial areas, according to a news release.
The Great Homes Update Program includes a reimbursement incentive that encourages the rehabilitation and refurbishment of the exterior of single-family homes within the Sugar Land city limits. Through the Update Program, approved program participants can receive a reimbursement of up to $10,000 for a portion of their eligible exterior home improvement costs.
The Commercial Revitalization Grant provides funding for commercial property owners of multi-tenant centers that are at least 20 years old and have a minimum of 15,000 square feet of leasable space.
By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENSTAR.COM
A Fort Bend County judge was officially admonished last month by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct for actions he took in the course of a case in July 2003, including using profanity while talking to lawyers while on the bench. The commission required Judge Steve Roges of the 268th District Court to take additional hours of legal education, but did not otherwise sanction the judge.
In a document called a “Public Admonition and Order of Additional Education” released in late December, the commission laid out a series of facts as determined in twoday meeting of the commission in October. According to those findings of fact, Rogers was presiding over the jury trial of a woman who, according to court records, was charged with possession of methamphetamine.
According the the findings, the woman’s lawyers, Annie Scott and Michael Elliot, had requested that their client appear in her jail uniform during the trial, which is unusual. In most criminal trials in Texas, defendants appear in civilian clothing, whether they are being held in jail or out on bond.
During a bench conference - out of the hearing of jurors - Scott asked the attorneys whether they indeed planned to have their client appear in her jail uniform. When they confirmed that they did, according to the findings, Rogers responded by saying it “was not going to happen in [my] courtroom],” adding that the they “were not going to pull that in [my] courtroom.”
Later, according to the findings, the defendant was brought before the
University
Property owners can apply to receive reimbursement for up to 20 percent of eligible project costs for site improvements, such as modernizing building façades, creation of public open spaces, improvements to public right-of-way that promote walkability, enhance parking infrastructure, innovative improvements that could stimulate economic growth and unrivaled advancements, reshaping the city in ways never before imagined.
“Sugar Land has always been a trailblazing city – staying on the cutting edge and delivering worldclass services to our residents and business owners,” states the news release. “Redevelopment initiatives such as the Great Homes Update Program and the Commercial Revitalization Grant are an integral step in ensuring that Sugar Land remains relevant amongst new housing options and commercial developments within the region. All single-family homeowners as well as commercial property own-
judge and confirmed her own desired to appear in her jail uniform, but Rogers denied her request and ordered her attorneys to go to a nearly Wal-Mart to purchase some clothes for the woman.
“Judge Rogers ended the hearing by slamming his hand on the bench and yelling ‘Don’t [expletive] with me in my court,” according to the findings. An official transcript of the comments is not available because Rogers had not asked the court reporter to take down the bench hearing for the record, but a videotape shows Rogers hitting the bench with his hands and pointing at the lawyers, according to the findings.
One of the lawyers, Scott filed a motion asking that Rogers recuse himself from the case, which Rogers later denied, but did refer the case to a visiting judge. Since he was still the judge of record, Rogers was responsible for signing the pay vouchers for the defense attorneys.
In September 2023, months after the earlier events, according to the findings, Elliott appeared in Rogers’s court on unrelated matters. The bailiff approached Elliott and told the attorney that he was “banned” from the courtroom and “could not appear for any reason,” according to the findings. Elliott’s ongoing cases in Rogers’s court were later transferred to other courts.
In a written response to the commission, Rogers wrote that he “believe(s) Texas law allows [him], in [his] discretion, to protect a defendant’s rights” and that “wearing jail clothes in a jury trial ... could also be an effort to cause error if there were not a knowing and intelligent waiver, or could be setting the stage for an ineffective assistance of counsel error argument if there was a conviction.”
the programs.”
According to the findings, Rogers blamed the two attorneys for his ignorance of the law, stating “there has been no written motion or request from defense counsel ... defense counsel also did not present any briefing or case law at that time to support their intention to request their client appear in jail clothing.”
Rogers further stated that he typically does not do his own legal research and asks the opposing attorneys in cases before him to provide that research. He told the commission that before taking the bench, he had had about two months of experience in criminal law.
Rogers, a Republican, in 2022 won election to the bench of 268th District Court with 50.22 percent of the vote over the then-one-term incumbent, Democrat R. O’Neil Williams, according to official election results. According to his official profile, Roger is a Texas native who graduated from Regent University of School of Law in California and Trinity Law School. He practiced civil law for about two decades before running for election, according to the profile.
In its conclusion, the commission said that Rogers should be “publicly admonished” and ordered to take a total of six additional hours of continuing legal education for “failing to comply with the law and maintain professional competence in the law” in the course of the events described in the findings of fact.
In a written statement released through a political consultant and on his social media pages, Rogers said, “”While defending the constitutional rights of everyone who steps foot in my courtroom, I, regrettably, used the “F” word during a sidebar exchange. I apologize to the people
Branch library to host program on downsizing
Community Reports
Fort Bend County Libraries’ University
Branch Library will present “The Truth About Downsizing, Rightsizing, & Simplifying” - a program in the Senior Series for older adults and their family members -- on Friday, January 17, beginning at 10:30 a.m., in Meeting Room 1 of the library, 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. Liz McNeel, a senior real-estate specialist and certified senior-housing professional, will talk about the pros and cons of moving from a long-time residence. She will discuss resources, tools, and tips
for making downsizing a bit easier.
Attendees will learn practical strategies for decluttering, organizing, and preparing a home for sale without feeling overwhelmed. They will explore the emotional and financial benefits of simplifying one’s living situation, from reducing maintenance costs to finding a home more suitable for one’s current needs.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www. fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the University Branch Library (281-633-5100) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
I serve for that lapse. The state of Texas, and I, rightly hold Judges to high standards of professionalism, and I pledge to continue to abide by them. The State Commission on Judicial Conduct issued its decision in this matter. While there are numerous inaccuracies in the details of the report that we are working to correct, I accept the commission’s decision.
“I ran for Judge on the bedrock that Judges are there to follow the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of Texas, and uphold the laws as the legislature creates. Since taking the bench, my court has worked hard everyday getting the justice system back to work for victims of serious crime, handling 22 sexual assault cases and over 10 murder trials, along with other significant cases on our docket. I would like everyone to know I will continue to defend the Constitution and your rights, and continue to do the important work of this court,” he said.
Applications for Sugar Land’s Great Homes Update Program and Commercial Revitalization Grant are now open. File photo
Judge Steve Rogers of the 268th District Court in Fort Bend County was officially admonished in December by the State Board of Judicial Conduct. Here he is seen in his official portrait at the Fort Bend County Justice Center.
Photo by Ken Fountain
Liz McNeel, a senior real-estate specialist and certified seniorhousing professional, will present a program on downsizing at the University Branch Library on January 11. Courtesy Fort Bend County Libraries
Chess event set for Jan. 18 at George Memorial Library
Community Reports
Chess players of all skill levels are invited to practice their strategies and share tips with others at the “Chess Community Club” event on Saturday, January 18, from 11 a.m.=noon, in Room 2C at Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond
Teens and adults of all skill levels - from beginners to advanced - who are interested in playing chess, are invited to practice their strategies while playing against others in a relaxed, stress-free environment. Learn a new chess move (or two)!
A limited number of chess sets will be provided, but players are welcome to bring their own sets as well.
This come-and-go event is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call George Memorial Library (281-342-4455) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
In August through November, it grew to a 4.4-months supply, the highest level since September 2012 when the market had a 4.7-months supply. In December, inventory stood at a 4.0-months supply. A 4.0- to 6.0-months supply has traditionally been considered a “balanced market” in which neither buyer nor seller has an advantage.
May registered the year’s greatest sales volume with 8,482 single-family units sold during the month. By the time the year wrapped, 85,163 single-family homes had sold across the Greater Houston area. That is up 1.3 percent from the 84,038 homes sold in 2023. Home prices reached record highs in 2024. In July, the average home price hit a record $443,362, topping the previous record just two months earlier when the price was $441,162. Home prices have eased since then to $425,150 in December.
On a year-to-date basis, the average single-family home price increased 2.5 percent to $422,590 while the median price rose 1.5 percent to $335,000.
December Monthly Market Comparison
The Houston housing market finished the year strong with all indicators in positive territory in December. Total property sales increased for the third consecutive month. Sales were up 13.6 percent year-over-year while total dollar volume rose 20.5 percent to $3.5 billion. Active listings, or the total number
LEGAL NOTICE
of available properties, were 21.6 percent ahead of the 2023 volume with 45,714 units.
December Single-Family Homes Update
Single-family home sales totaled 7,162, up 16.3 percent from December 2023. This marked the fourth month in a row where sales were in positive territory. The median price edged up by 1.3 percent to $334,290. The average price increased 5.0 percent to $425,150.
Days on Market, or the actual time it took to sell a home, increased from 57 to 59. Months of inventory expanded from a 3.3-months supply last December to 4.0 months. The current national supply stands at 3.8 months, as reported by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Broken out by housing segment, December sales performed as follows:
• $1 - $99,999: unchanged
• $100,000 - $149,999: increased 27.3%
• $150,000 - $249,999: increased 17.5%
• $250,000 - $499,999: increased 14.8%
• $500,000 - $999,999: increased 18.2%
• $1M and above: increased 64.6% HAR also breaks out the sales figures for existing single-family homes. Existing home sales totaled 4,525 in December. That is up 17.6 percent versus the same month last year. The average sales price increased 8.6 percent to $431,899 while the median sales price rose 4.2 percent to $325,000.
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Wine & Malt Beverage Retailer’s On-Premise Permit (BG) with a Food & Beverage Certificate (FB) by Pei Wei Houston, LLC dba Pei Wei Asian Kitchen, to be located at 6245 Hwy 6, Suite 200, Missouri City, Fort Bend, Texas. Officer of said Limited Liability Company is Lorne Goldberg, CEO.
LEGAL NOTICE
An application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a MIXED BEVERAGE by dba MoCity Grill, DBLT ENTERPRISES LLC to be located at 3760 CARTWRIGHT RD. MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS 77459
OWNER: Carla Butler
Townhouse/ Condominium Update
Townhome and condominium sales declined throughout most of 2024, with the exception of October, which saw positive sales activity. December volume was down 5.8 percent with 389 units sold versus 413 a year earlier. The average price rose 2.5 percent in December to $268,152 and the median price was statistically flat at $234,250. Inventory improved from a 3.5-months supply to 5.4 months.
Houston Real Estate Highlights for December and Full-Year 2024
Following two consecutive years of declines, single-family home sales rebounded in 2024 with 85,163 single-family homes sold compared to 84,038 in 2023 – an increase of 1.3 percent; Total property sales for fullyear 2024 were statistically flat at 101,864 units while the total dollar volume increased 3.1 percent to $41 billion; December single-family home sales climbed 16.3 percent year-over-year with 7,162 units sold;
Total December property sales increased 13.6 percent to 8,478 units; Total dollar volume for December rose 20.5 percent to $3.5 billion; The single-family home median price edged up by 1.3 percent to $334,290 while the average price increased 5.0 percent to $425,150;
Single-family homes months of inventory expanded to a 4.0-months supply; The townhome/condominium market experienced
declining sales throughout 2024, and in December, volume declined 5.8 percent, with the average price up 2.5 percent to $268,152 and the
median price statistically flat at $234,250; Townhome/condominium inventory improved from a 3.5-months supply to 5.4 months.
After two consecutive years of declining sales, the Houston housing market experienced modest growth in 2024, according to the Houston Association of Realtors. File photo
A “Chess Community Club” event will be held at the George Memorial Library on Saturday, January 18. File photo
EDITORIAL States of the Union
Ayoung man walks into the store manager’s office seeking a job. The manager is on the phone but finishes and apologizes: “Sorry, but I was just talking to a friend in Canada.” The young applicant says, “The only things we get from Canada are hockey players and loose women.” The manager frowns and says, “Young man, I’ll have you know my wife is from Canada.” The applicant says brightly “Oh, and which team did she play for?”
That’s the only Canadian joke I know, because our neighbor to the north – unlike the one to our south – is a nice, delightfully dull, civilized place. So they quite probably don’t want to become our 51st state. Greenland and the Panama Canal don’t want to join us, either, despite what President-elect Donald Trump is proposing. But let’s start with Canada. The U.S. is far and away its largest and most important trading partner, and Canada and the U.S. have the longest border in the world: 5,526 miles. Trump’s threat to impose a 25 percent
In a column I wrote before last November's election, I mentioned that the first time I ever visited Washington, D.C. was during a middle-school trip. It happened to be during the single term of President Jimmy Carter. As I noted, during the 1976 election that elevated the then-governor of Georgia to the highest office of the land, I had actually favored incumbent President Gerald Ford. I was in fifth grade, so my political inclinations were fairly rudimenary. I can't really say why I liked Ford better, except that perhaps he seemed more like somebody's grandfather and therefore more presidential than the relatively young Carter with his longish hair and toothy grin. While I wasn't all that much into politics then, I did have a keen interest in history. I think I still have in a box somewhere with two paperback books I bought during that trip to D.C. (maybe at the U.S. Capitol, maybe at the Smithsonian, I can't remember), one containing the nation's founding documents and another with brief profiles of all of the Presidents
Lynn Ashby Columnist
tariff on all we import from Canada would – as they say in Quebec – put a hitch in their giddy-up.
Among our imports just in entertainment we have Martin Short, Pamela Anderson, Celine Dion, Paul Anka, Michael J. Fox, Ryan Gosling, Keanu Reeves and Justin Bieber. Other things to know about our maybenew citizens: Canada has the world’s first UFO landing pad. Santa Claus is possibly a Canadian citizen. Canada’s official phone number is 1-800-O-CANADA because their national anthem is “O Canada”. Their dollar is worth 69 U.S. cents, and Charles III is the King of Canada. Annexing Canada would be easier than our previous efforts. The U.S. invaded Canada twice: during
the American Revolutionary War and during the War of 1812. Both attempts were disasters.
Trump may be kidding about our next invasion, or maybe not. “No one can answer why we subsidize Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year? Makes no sense! Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it is a great idea. 51st State!!!” he wrote on his social media platform. Do we really “subsidize” Canada? I can’t find any proof. Nor can I find any record of Canadians who want Canada to become our 51st State. After meeting with then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (he’s toast) at Mara-Lago in late November, Trump started calling Trudeau the “Governor” of the “Great State of Canada.”
Still up north but to the east, we have the world’s largest island (or smallest continent): Greenland. In his Christmas message, Trump addressed “the people of Greenland, which is needed by the United States for National Security purposes and, who want the U.S. to
be there, and we will!” The “people of Greenland” number 56,789, so you could seat the entire population in NRG Stadium with room for a few clowns from the rodeo. Most of the country is flat, ice covered, uninhabitable. In 1941 the U.S. sent Marines there to prevent Nazi Germany from invading. One young Leatherneck sent to the tundra was future Secretary of State George Shultz. He later recalled, “I was told, ‘If you see a bush move, shoot it.’” Greenland is a self-governing part of Denmark. Instead of annexing Greenland as is the proposal for Canada, Trump wants to buy Greenland outright. The Washington Post estimated the price at $1.7 trillion. Oddly enough, the Danes said the whole idea was “absurd.”
There wouldn’t be a Panama if it weren’t for the U.S. getting involved. Panama was part of Colombia, but in 1903 that part declared its independence. Colombia, selfishly, objected. On Nov. 2, 1903, U.S. warships blocked sea lanes against possible Colombian troop movement sent to put down the rebellion, and thus was born a new nation. The Hay–Herrán Treaty
with Panama granted the U.S. a zone roughly 10 miles wide and 50 miles long. In that zone, the U.S. would build a canal, then administer, fortify, and defend it “in perpetuity.” Not quite. By later agreement, Panama took control on Dec. 31, 1999. An interesting point: For years every battleship in the world was built specifically sized to get through the locks of the Panama Canal. While that nation had control over the canal, Uncle Sam still meddled. On Dec. 20, 1989, the U.S. invaded Panama and captured its dictator, Manuel Noriega, a drug lord, money launderer and, on the side, a murderer. He was brought back to Miami and put on trial. Noriega was sentenced to life. It was clearly the kidnapping of a foreign leader, but Panama was glad to get rid of him. He was finally extradited back to Panama, tried for crimes and jailed. He died soon afterwards. Trump’s reasoning for re-taking the canal is that China “illegally” operates it. President José Raúl Mulino flatly denies the charge. The irony is that Mulino was considered a great friend and ally of the U.S. – until now.
Remembering our connections
Ken Fountain Editor
up to that time. By that time, I'd warmed up to Carter, and over the years my admiration for him only grew. I would see him in person about two decades later, at a book-signing event in Houston. I'll never forget the look in his piercingly blue eyes.
Of course I thought of these events with Carter's death in late December and the week or so afterward, culminating with his state funeral in the National Cathedral. I watched most of these events, either on television or online, with a profound sense of loss, not just for the man himself but for the dignified tenor he brought not only to his time in office but to the long postpresidency that followed. I thought about something else during that period, which encompassed the end of 2024 and the first week or so of 2025. During that time, a lot of news events occurred with which – as with Carter's
The Friends of the University Branch Library will host a Winter Book Sale on Saturday, January 25, from 10 a.m.-noon, in Meeting Room 1 of the library, 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus.
People who love books, people who love bargains, and people who need to get rid of some spare change will find a lot in common at the book sale, where they will discover adult and children's books, all at prices that are hard to beat.
Items of special interest at this book sale include: World War II books, opera performance CDs, large-format books, children's items, fiction, cookbooks, and other nonfiction.
Prices range from 50 cents to $2, with special items slightly higher. Checks or cash are accepted; bills larger than $20 cannot be accepted. Donations of gently used books (fiction and nonfiction adult, youth, and children's hardback and paperback books that are clean and not torn), CDs, DVDs are always welcome and may be taken to the library throughout the year during regular business hours. Textbooks published within the past five years are also accepted.
Items that cannot be accepted include cassettes, VHS tapes, encyclopedias, magazines, medical/legal/computer books older than
passing – I felt some personal connection.
On January 1, we woke to the news of the terrible terrorist attack in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Just hours later, we heard of the suicide of an activeduty soldier inside a Tesla Cybertruck parked at the entranceway of the Trump Casino in Las Vegas. I have some history with both cities, oddly enough by the same pathway. Let me explain. I have deep family connections to Louisiana. For two years of my early childhood I lived in Houma, about 60 miles southwest of New Orleans, where my grandparents lived and where I still have family. Once, my parents' car was stolen. A while later, we went as a family to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, and as we were walking down the sidewalk, my father suddenly exclaimed, "That's our car." And there it was, parked in the street. We contacted the police and ultimately were able to get the car back, while still being able to enjoy the parade.
I've been to the Big Easy a few times since as an adult, both for personal and professional reasons. A little over a decade ago, I went to cover a court hearing and stayed in a quaint hotel in the Quarter.
I remember walking up Bourbon Street toward the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals early one morning, just as the sun was rising on the city. It was a lovely walk. So I was particularly horrified to hear the news of the attack in that same spot.
My grandparents, who enjoyed visiting Las Vegas a couple of times a year, later retired there after closing their small business in Houma. I paid my first visit to Sin City about a year later, in the summer after my freshman year in college. I went there a few more times while I was in serving in the Navy in San Diego, California. The last time I was there was about 15 years ago. It can be a fun place to visit, but since I don't really enjoy gambling that much, I don't plan ever to make a habit of it. Still, the news of the soldier's suicide in that very public setting was terrible, especially for someone who also served, if only for a relatively brief time. And then there were the devastating wildfires in Southern California, primarily in and around Los Angeles. All told, I spent just about seven years in SoCal, both while in the Navy and after mustering out. A part of that time was spent in Long Beach in the L.A. area
2020, or books that are damp, moldy, dirty, or insect-ridden.
The Friends of the University Branch Library organization is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation. Donations and contributions to the Friends are tax-deductible.
The Friends of the University Branch Library organization is instrumental in funding library programs such as the children's Summer Reading Challenge. Proceeds from the book sale and annual membership dues also help to underwrite the costs of special programming and various cultural events at the University Branch Library.
Membership applications will be available for people who would like to join the Friends of the University Branch Library.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), or call the University Branch Library (281-633-5100).
PARKING INSTRUCTIONS: Park inside the gated lot (VISITOR LOT 4). Bring the parking-ticket stub to the check-out desk inside the library to be validated by library staff. Parking is FREE if the ticket is validated by the library. Parking outside the gated lot may result in a parking violation from the University of Houston.
We must note that buying a huge chunk of land isn’t new for us. Manhattan Island was purchased from the Indians for $26 in beads. The Louisiana Purchase bought from France doubled the size of the U.S. for $15 million, and the Russian Czar sold Alaska to us for $7.2 million. The Gadsden Purchase was exactly that. In 1854 Mexico sold us what is today southern Arizona and southern New Mexico for $10 million. And remember Texas sold the western third of the newly annexed Republic to the U.S. for $10 million. That land went all the way to Wyoming. Just think, otherwise we really could ski Texas. Even the idea of buying Greenland isn’t new. In the 1860s President Andrew Johnson floated the idea of buying it. In 1946 President Harry Truman offered Demark $100 million for it. (Notice how inflation even affects the price of an iceberg.) And Trump considered it during his first term. Who knows? Maybe we can at least ski Greenland or get some hockey players.
Ashby sells at ashby2@ comcast.net
while my ship was undergoing a major retrofit in drydock. Fires were always a presence (as were earthquakes – I experienced a couple of those as well). I remember driving the freeways and occasionally seeing small brush fires in the hills. But it's only in recent years that they have come to be so fierce, and frequent, especially in the large cities – not unlike hurricanes here along the Gulf Coast. While in the Navy, I read a book of speculative fiction titled "Nature's End," which depicted a dystopian future in which the United States has been devastated by climate change and is under the sway of a charismatic cult leader. That was three decades ago, for whatever that's worth. I relate all of this not to suggest there's something special about me. Quite the opposite. We live in a highly mobile, interconnected society, not just in our nation but internationally as well. By virtue of my service in the Navy, almost all of it spent aboard an aircraft carrier, I saw and experienced a large swath of the globe. Again, this isn't special. Many people are well-traveled even if they haven't served in the military. And if you have had the privilege of visiting a lot of places – and experiencing
the cultures in those places – it becomes difficult to see the world in very insular, provincial terms. We're all busy people, going about the business of living our lives. That can involve juggling our work and family lives, taking part in community affairs, visiting houses of worship, and even trying to enjoy some recreational time now and again. That's the way life is supposed to work. And when things are going relatively smoothly, it can be easy to become complacent and think that everything that's really important is contained withing the boundaries of our everyday activities - our city, our county, our state, or even our nation.
But as recent events have highlighted all too well – and as we in Fort Bend learned with a vengeance last year with the arrival of Hurricane Beryl – trouble can strike anywhere, at any time. A dear relative of mine lives in Southern California, but thankfully has not yet felt an immediate impact from the fires in Los Angeles. We're all connected, all of us. We shouldn't forget that.
Fountain is reminded at KFountain@fortbendstar.com
Fort Bend libraries to host tax preparation assistance
Fort Bend County Libraries will host representatives from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), who will provide free income-tax-preparation assistance for low-income taxpayers at several locations in the Fort Bend County library system from February 1 through April 15. Income-tax forms are not available at the libraries, but the libraries’ computers and printers can be used to download and print out the
forms from the IRS website, www.irs.gov, during regular library hours. A library card (which is free) is needed to use the printers, and the cost to print is 10¢ per black-andwhite page. The following information should be brought to the session if possible: a photo ID; Social Security card(s) for self, spouse, and all dependents; last year’s tax return; W-2, 1099s, and any other compensation received in 2024; unemployment com-
pensation statements; and any other documents that are necessary to complete your return.
February’s schedules are as follows:
George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview, Richmond; Room 2A (Appointment required: 281-342-4455):
§ Saturdays, February 1, 8, 15, 22; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The income-tax-preparation assistance is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us<http://www.fortbend. lib.tx.us>) or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
New pro volleyball league debuts at Epicenter
By Taylor Fletcher SPECIAL TO THE STAR
Severe rainstorms could have overshadowed the debut of a new major league team. Instead, a downpour in Rosenberg last week did not dampen the inaugural pro volleyball match for League One Volleyball team LOVB (pronounced "LOVE") Houston at the Epicenter in Rosenberg.
Houston is a member of the league's six inaugural teams (Omaha, Austin, Atlanta, Salt Lake, Madison, WI) which have stamped their footprint across the center of the country.
Fans witnessed a Texassized rivalry in the making on the second day in the league history. Those who braved the weather were rewarded fivefold – or at least a full five sets.
Houston defeated Austin in a score 25-27, 24-26, 25-22, 27-25, 16-14 victory in the Epicenter.
While the home side went down 0-2 early in the match,
neither team was particularly far from each other.
Houston opposite hitter Jordan Thompson said “But I think what's important … is the will to win."
That will was on display from Houston rookie outside hitter Jess Mruzik. "I was like, please just push to five, push to five." Mruzik said. "We'll be fine."
Mruzik, 2024 NCAA tournament MVP from Penn State who was added to the squad late last month, made the game-saving block to complete the come-from-behind win in the final set for Houston.
Houston teammates were more than fine with her play that featured a stat line of 13 kills, an ace, five blocks and 13 digs.
“Put the team on her back and take these big rips” Thompson said “You're going to do really amazing things.”
The willingness to take big rips permeates the new league.
CEO Katlyn Gao, execu-
tive chair Peter Hirschmann and co-founder Kevin Wong established LOVB in 2020.
The focus was to build a new major sports league with an emphasis on providing a path to players from the youth club level all the way to the professional level.
Their big ambitions are evident – a high-level product that’s filled with national team players, college stars and international coaches peppered across the league.
The fans are travelling far to experience the major league play in person.
“Someone told me they came from two hours and then four hours away,” Thomspon said “To see the amount of support that we already have is really exciting to be a part of and I'm just very thankful.”
Learn more about League One Volleyball at lovb.com.
Fletcher is a freelance writer based in Missouri City. He can be reached at taylorfletcherwrites@gmail.com
LOVEB Houston players Jess Mruzik, left, and Jordan Thompson, and head coach Massimo Barbolini speak to reporters after the team's debut at the Epicenter. Photo by Taylor Fletcher
The Epicenter in Rosenberg hosts the inaugural match of the new League One Volleyball (LOVE) pro volleyball league. Photo by Taylor Fletcher
CANARY
Meet Canary, the sweetest cat ever!
She is a very active and playful cat who has a healthy appetite. While she was in foster care, she got along with other cats and played with some of them.
Canary is ready to find her forever home. Could you be the one who adopts her today? Adopt Canary today!
Mission Bend library to host decluttering program
Are you frustrated with clutter? Does your family have so many activities that you don’t know if you’re coming or going? Get tips for leading a more organized - and less stressful - life for the New Year when Fort Bend County Libraries’ Mission Bend Branch Library presents a program on “Decluttering” on Saturday, January 18, beginning at 3 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road. Get decluttering tips from the works of popular authors like Dana K. White, Cassandra Aarssen, KC Davis, who have
written books about organizing one’s home and belongings. Discover different techniques and methods for decluttering and getting organized. The program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are encouraged. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Mission Bend Branch Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library (832-471-5900), or by visiting the library.
281-277-2200 and ask for ESL information. You may also email ESL@grandparkway.org
EMMY-NOMINATED FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR HOLDING AUDITIONS
The Fort Bend Boys Choir is seeking talented young boys who like music and singing. If know of one, encourage him to audition for our award-winning and Emmy-Nominated Fort Bend Boys Choir! No experience is necessary and boys should be around eight years of age or older with an unchanged voice. Auditions are by special appointment at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX. Visit the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s webpage at www.fbbctx.org or call (281) 240-3800 for more details about auditions. Benefits as a choir member include greater self-esteem and self-confidence, better work ethic and a sense of belonging and community. A boy’s voice has an expiration date so it is important to audition when boys’ voices are still unchanged. Auditions are free!
AMERICAN LEGION POST 942
311 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land meets the fourth Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 pm. All Veterans are welcome.
LOVING FRIENDS IS A GROUP OF WOMEN AND MEN WHO ARE WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS THAT MEET MONTHLY FOR LUNCH, FRIENDSHIP, AND SOCIALIZATION Lunches. are planned for the fourth Tuesday of the month at various local restaurants. Please contact Bobbie Tomlin at {281} 967-0718
For more information about us and to learn about this month’s planned lunch. We hope to meet you soon.
QUAIL VALLEY GARDEN
CLUB
The Quail Valley Garden Club is very busy, not only with meetings, but with some fun “stuff” for our members and the community. Please find our fall schedule of events that the QVGC will be involved with this fall leading up to the holidays.
FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS
We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com
THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES
We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org
AARP CHAPTER 3264
ALIEF
Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/ Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281-785-7372 for more information.
CLUB
SUGAR LAND ROTARY
Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 832-987-4193, dean7351@gmail.com We just started a new evening club also. Contact me for more info.
FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB
Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND (in the Chapel) 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 FREE and Open to the Public!
We welcome everybody! If you play accordion, beginners to professional and would like to play Call, Text or email: Vince Ramos Cell: 281-204-7716 vincer.music@gmail.com.
LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY
We enhance lives and strengthen communities by teaching adults to read. We need your help. Literacy Council is actively recruiting Volunteer Tutors to provide instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL) Levels 0-5, three hours a week. For more information, call 281-240-8181 or visit our website www.ftbendliteracy.org.
GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE
Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving. Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events.
DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED
Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195
EXCHANGE
EXCHANGE, America’s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new members! Various Fort Bend clubs exist and can accommodate early morning (7 a.m.), noon and evening meeting time desires. For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-5751145 or mike@reichekfinancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!
MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801
Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., Missouri City Rec Center. Lunch, education, and entertainment. All seniors over 50 invited. For more information, call 713-8595920 or 281-499-3345.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP PRESENTATION
The Brightwater Cancer Support Group will present an educational program for the community on January 9, 2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m., at the Southminster Presbyterian Church, 2310 Brightwater Drive in Missouri City. Dr. Issam Raad, Chair, MD Anderson, Department of Infectious Diseases will speak on “Cancer and Infectious Diseases, and the Power of Hope.” Dr. Raad is the Founder and President of Health Outreach to the Middle East, a medical missions organization founded in 1990 that currently sponsors and manages more than 20 charity clinics and hospitals in 14 countries in the Middle East. In 2006, he founded the Worldwide Institute of Medical Education. He is also the Founding and Senior Pastor of the Arabic Church of Houston. RSVPs required: ramirezsusan51@gmail.com
FELICIA SMITH JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION
Register for the family-fun Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition. This exciting event is on January 25, 2025 at Fort Bend Christian Academy, North Campus Gymnasium, 1250 7th., Sugar Land 77478. Teams of four, ages eight and up have two hours to complete a 300-500-1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle. Awards immediately follow, and bragging rights are guaranteed! Check-in is at 9 am, and the timed competition is from 10 am to noon. The event is one way the local nonprofit raises awareness and funds for families with autistic children and loved ones. Register your team ($160) now. For volunteer or sponsor information, or autism resources, visit www.hopeforthree.org
