Seventy people spent a recent Saturday morning learning about “Edible Garden Planning,” presented by Fort Bend County Master Gardeners.
The free Grow Your Own class begins a new year of educational offerings by Master Gardeners, who also offer Landscape Success classes on different gardening topics. Master Gardeners Peggy d’Hemecourt and Dan Lawlor presented the January program and answered audience questions.
d’Hemecourt, of Richmond, told the group at the Bud O’Shieles Community Center in Rosenberg that success depends upon having a plan, choosing a site, preparing the soil, planting at the optimal time of year and continuous care.
“If you don’t know where you’re going, don’t be surprised when you get there,” she said, emphasizing the importance of planning. “Planning begins with the end in mind: what do you want to accomplish?” she said.
Her list of possible goals included fresh fruit and vegetables for attendees’ families, engaging the entire family in an outdoor project and replacing lawns with productive garden space. Questions to be asked by the gardeners include who will do the work, what do you and your family like to eat and how do you plan to use what you grow.
If a vegetable garden is the goal, the attendees learned that it needs a well-drained area, a nearby water supply, visibility from the home, a site away from trees, shrubs and buildings and 8-plus hours per day of direct sunlight. People who don’t have room for raised beds were asked to consider planting in containers. d’Hemecourt also discussed successful home fruit production and what requirements need to be met to accomplish that goal. “Begin with the end in mind!” she said. “Know before you grow.”
Lawlor talked about the physical characteristics of soil, improving soil structure, soil water, plant nutrients and soil pH, fertilizers and soil testing. Examining soil volume, he said half is pore space and half soil solids. Components are air, water, minerals and organic material. “Soil is alive,” he said.
In discussing soil texture, Lawlor said the average soil in the Richmond area was 40 percent to 50 percent clay, 15 percent silt and 35 percent sand. An ideal composition would be less than 20 percent clay, 15 percent silt and 65 percent sand.
“Soil is produced when unweathered geologic material is acted upon over time by climate and biological activity,” he said. “Soil structure is almost always improved by adding organic matter.”
Lawlor, of Sugar Land, said organic matter loosens soil, aggregates soil, is a nutrient source for plants, increases water holding and aeration, provides food for microbes,
By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Members of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality last week voted unanimously to grant a motion by Fort Bend County to deny a permit application for a proposed concrete and rock-crushing facility in Rosharon and remand the matter back to the agency’s executive director for further review.
The vote by the three commissioners, all appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott, was the latest salvo in a drama that began last year after Houston-based Julpit, Inc. applied for the permit to build the facility,
which would be located on a now vacant property near several neighborhoods. The permit application was the subject of an often-raucous public meeting last August.
At that meeting, residents who live in close proximity to the proposed plant spoke in opposition to the plant for hours to TCEQ representatives and company officials, Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage told the company and TCEQ representatives that he would lead the county’s effort to have the permit denied. The Fort Bend Commissioners Court later voted unanimously to authorize County Attorney Bridget Smith-
Lawson to pursue legal avenues toward that end.
At the TCEQ hearing in Austin on January 16 (which can be viewed on YouTube at youtube. com/@TCEQ/streams) led off the county’s arguments by saying the company’s permit application had several procedural errors, including ambiguity over the proposed facility’s compliance with distance requirements under state law. Furthermore, she said, health concerns related to such facilities warrant closer scrutiny by the TCEQ’s staff.
Ernest Wotring, a Houston-based outside counsel for the county, laid out its arguments in more detail,
saying that the documentation in the permit application made it unclear which legal entity - Julpit, Inc. or Julpit, LLC - had actually applied for and been granted an air permit by the TCEQ’s executive director, Kelly Keel. Wotring also said that maps provided by the company were rudimentary and unclear about whether the working facilities of the proposed plant were outside of the required 440-foot distance from any homes, churches or schools. For these reasons, he argued, the appli-
By Dana Worchel SPECIAL TO THE STAR
Brother and sister Cassandra and Bryan Fuentes, both graduates of Lamar CISD’s Foster High School, couldn’t have been happier and prouder last May. Each of them had won a $3,000 scholarship to attend an institution of higher learning within Fort Bend County, allowing them to pursue their educational dreams, leading to solid careers.
The scholarships came about when the siblings applied with Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors, a social and philanthropic organization open to all
By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
A man accused of the shooting death of a coworker at a U.S. Post Office facility in Missouri City in December will be evaluated by a forensic psychologist to determine if he is mentally competent.
At a hearing on Friday, 434th District Court Judge Christian Becerra granted a defense motion to use state funds to hire a psychologist by the defense attorney of Derrick Deon Lott, Jr., who was arrested December 9 after
Fort Bend County women residents.
“I want to teach math and science in second through fourth grade,”
Cassandra said, adding she loved those two subjects. She saw a posting about the scholarship on a bulletin board outside of her school counselor’s office. “I knew that any help I could get would be beneficial, and I’m very grateful,”
Cassandra said of the scholarship.
Cassandra, now a senior at University of Houston Sugar Land, will graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in Teaching and Learning.
Bryan attends Texas State Technical College and is working on an asso -
the late-night fatal shooting of Kevin Hines at the mail processing center off of U.S. 90. Lott, 24, of Humble, has been held in the Fort Bend County Jail on a $2 million bond since shortly after his arrest. According to an addendum to a probable cause affidavit sworn to bye two Missouri City police detectives, Fort Bend County Medical Examiner Stephen Pustilnik determined that Hines died of a single gunshot to the back of his head. Since the shooting, authorities have been largely silent about the investigation, includ-
ciate’s degree with plans to become a heavy engine diesel technician.
He plans to graduate in December.
“I really needed that extra help and it helped a lot,” he said of the scholarship.
The application period for this year opened this month with a March 15 deadline. Students must apply online at www.fbfnfoundation.
org. FBFN, which began awarding the scholarships in 2005, has since given away over $350,000 to deserving high school and college students.
In 2012, the Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Foundation was created as a 501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt
ing any possible relationship between Lott and Hines. According to media reports, Hines was an out-of-state contractor who was assigned to the Missouri City facility. At Friday's hearing, Lott, wearing a green jail uniform, sat silently with other defendants except for brief exchanges with his retained attorney, Allie Booker. In an earlier hearing, Lott waived arraignment on the single count of murder, a firstdegree felony. The next hearing in the case is set for March 3.
Texas organization and charitable arm of the FBFN social club, said Joyce Levine, president of the social club. The social club part of FBFN began in the late 1980s as a part of Welcome Wagon International, a company which welcomed newcomers into an area with baskets of gifts and coupons from local businesses and a little friendship. But the friendships grew, and Welcome Wagon rules stated newcomers had to leave membership after two years.
Pictured are the recipients of the 2024 Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Foundation scholarships. L-R: Nancy Byrne, vice president
Erika Castrejon, Varvara Martynova, Ethan McNew, Arleth Escobar, Cassandra Fuentes, Bryan Fuentes, Vivian Phung, Robert Bradby, Cole Young, Jana Yeager, Foundation President. Not
Automotive programs coming soon to TSTC in Rosenberg
Community Reports
Looking from U.S. 59, the new Transportation Center of Excellence has become an ever-growing presence on Texas State Technical College’s Fort Bend County campus in Rosenberg. What was once a field of native grass now holds the building where many will gain the education for their future careers.
As the second-highest employer of automotive body and related repairers, according to th U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas is in need of qualified individuals to join the workforce and industry. Kayla Harden, a recruiter for Christian Brothers Automotive, agrees.
“The need for skilled technicians is higher than ever, both nationwide and locally,” Harden said. “With
“But these ladies decided they wanted to stay together,” said Levine. So, in 1988, the women voted to form their own social group, leaving Welcome Wagon International, and Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors was born. The now 319-member strong organization has members from all over Fort Bend County, and they not only enjoy a game of Canasta or Mahjong, or a good book club discussion, but also take field trips to museums, have lunch and dinner, and go shopping.
The foundation is funded entirely by donations. The social club holds events such as luncheons and silent auctions, and other events throughout the school year to raise money, including a luncheon in May where the
the growing complexity of vehicles – especially as hybrid and electric models become more popular – there’s a huge demand for people with advanced diagnostic and technical skills.”
The new center will hold an expanded Diesel Equipment Technology program, as well as both the Automotive Technology and Auto Collision and Management Technology programs. And, as with other TSTC programs, the curriculum is dictated in large part by current industry trends and needs. In other words, the education that future students will receive will be applicable immediately after graduation.
“Let’s be real – this is a career where you’ll never be bored,” Harden said. “The industry is always evolving, and there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s the
latest in technology or honing your skills.”
According to the career website onetonline.org, the number of jobs for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Texas was forecast to increase 10 percent from 2020 to 2030. Likewise, automotive body and related repairers in the state were expected to see a 14% increase in job prospects over the same period.
Automotive Technology is now available at TSTC’s Harlingen, Sweetwater and Waco campuses. Auto Collision and Management Technology is available at the Harlingen and Waco campuses. Both will be available at the Fort Bend County campus beginning with the fall 2025 semester.
For more information on the automotive programs and TSTC, visit tstc.edu.
Children's Discovery Center to celebrate 'Year of the Snake' on Jan. 25
Community Reports
Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center will host a special "Year of the Snake" celebration of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, January 25. Lunar New Year is a celebration that originated in East and South Asia. The center is located at 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land. The event will feature tales that weave together themes of family and tradition. The scheduled events are: Story Time: Join us for stunning tales that weave together family and tradition themes.
When: At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in Kidtropolis Square. Ruby’s Chinese New Year by Houston Grand Opera: Follow Ruby and her zodiac friends in a performance designed for the whole family.
When: Noon in Kidtropolis Square
Dragon Puppet: Design a serpent-inspired dragon puppet to wiggle and waggle.
When: All Day at Junktion Chinese Character Banner: Celebrate the Year of the Snake by creating a lucky banner.
When: All Day in Junktion
Static Snakes: Prepare for
shocking science as you bring your snake to life using static electricity.
When: All Day in Science Station
Dragon’s Beard Candy: Twist, turn, and sculpt your own sweet creation. Wear it or eat it!
When: From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Junktion (Limit 12/ workshop. Sign up at Welcome Center.)
Activities, events and times are subject to change. For more information, including cost, visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org or call (832) 742-2800.
graduated from a public high school in Fort Bend County, with plans to attend, or who is already attending a public institution of higher learning within Fort Bend County. These places of higher learning are Wharton County Junior College, Houston Community College, Texas State Technical College, and University of Houston Sugar Land, which recently began offering Bachelor’s degrees in some fields.
“Most of our students work, are A and B students, and are often the first in their generation to go to college,” Levine said. Like applying for any other scholarship, they must do community service, get character reference letters, and provide transcripts. Applicants are also required to be US citizens, she said, and may win a scholarship from FBFN on two separate occasions. There is a scholar-
ship committee of roughly 12 FBFN members which make the decision on recipients. Past winners have gone on to careers in nursing, engineering, cosmetology, and many other areas, said Judy Hafner, vice president of scholarships for the FBFN Foundation Board. “Fort Bend County colleges offer a wide range of possibilities,” she said.
Levine summed up the best part of being a member FBFN. “We have fun and we do good,” she said. To apply for the FBFN scholarship, visit www.fbfnfoundation.org. The deadline to submit an application is March 15, 2025. For more information about Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors, visit www.fbfn.org.
Worchel is a freelance writer based in Sugar Land. She can be reached at dworchel@ swbell.net.
Joyce Levine, president of the Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Social Club for 2024-2025, speaks during the organization's first meeting of the year. Photo by Dayna Worchel
Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center will host a special "Year of the Snake" celebration of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, January 25. Courtesy Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center
In addition to an expanded Diesel Equipment Technology program (pictured), the new Transportation Center of Excellence at Texas State Technical College’s campus in Rosenberg will host the Automotive Technology and Auto Collision and Management Technology programs. Courtesy Texas State Technical College
ENTERVILLE,
CTEXAS – We are chugging along to Dallas, my brother, Kit, his wife, Amy, and me. Wait. We are not chugging. We are quietly sneaking up I-45 because we are in Amy’s Tesla. It makes no noise, has no combustion engine, no oil filter to be changed and no need to find a gas station. But it does need recharging, a problem for long-distance driving. Teslas get between 200 and 350 miles per charging, but going to Dallas is uphill for 250 miles – we weren’t topped out -- so we stop for a recharge. We have timed our trip so that we take a lunch break halfway to our destination: Centerville. There is a charging station at the side of the gas pumps next to a restaurant. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to charge. (At home, Amy just recharges overnight.)
Taking a Tesla on a trip (sounds like a C&W song) goes like this: At the beginning you punch in where you will start and your destination. A screen
As I write this on Monday afternoon, the entire Southeast Texas region, including Fort Bend County, is bracing for the effects of Winter Storm Enzo, which promises to be one of the coldest events we’ve experienced in quite some time. Those effects are expected to last through most of the remaining week.
I’m reminded of a similar column I wrote last July in anticipation of Hurricane Beryl, whose effects were much harsher and longerlasting than many of us thought. It’s perhaps an odd coincidence that these events seem to come right before the Fort Bend Star’s print deadline, putting me as editor at something of a disadvantage, since all the real news will happen after I’ve put the paper to bed. But them’s the breaks in the newspaper
EDITORIAL
Elon-gated and electrifying
Lynn Ashby Columnist
ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET
on the dash tells you where is the nearest power plug-ins, how much power is left in your car, how many more miles you can go and probably the date of your next dentist appointment. You can link your screen with the TV channels you get at home and watch
“My Mother the Car” while recharging, but that only works when you’re not moving. And, of course, it tells your speed. But since the engine is silent it is easy to not notice that. We pass a lot of cars, including those following us with blinking red lights and sirens. Also a warning: Kodiak Robotics is rolling out the world’s first driverless semi-truck. They are being run – one guess – on I-45 between Houston and Dallas. Wait. We are being passed. No wonder. It’s
another Tesla. Actually, there are a lot of Teslas around, and a lot more other EVs (Electronic Vehicles or maybe Eveready Voyagers). Last year Tesla sold 493,513 vehicles in the U.S. And more are coming. Automakers sold 1.3 million EVs in the U.S. in 2024, up from 1.2 million in 2023. Tesla was the top seller. GM’s EV sales in the last quarter of 2024 more than doubled to nearly 44,000. Ford’s EV sales climbed 16 percent, to more than 30,000 vehicles. Still, those sales are only 8 percent of all new vehicle purchases. (Almost half of cars sold in China are EVs.)
Car experts say one reason for the recent strong sales of EVs is, oddly enough, Donald Trump. No, he does not want to annex all Tesla plants. But he has hinted he will eliminate the $7,500 federal tax credit on electric vehicles priced under $80,000 and take several other measures to hamstring EV sales. This presents a problem for our First Felon. Trump has long been a friend of the oil biz (“Drill, baby, drill”) and rakes in big bux from its billionaires. This makes him
anti-EV, but who makes more electric cars than anyone? Trump’s new best friend and best donor, Elon Musk, who donated more than $250 million to Trump’s presidential campaign. Trump faces a tricky decision. Ah, yes, Musk. Perhaps no one person has been associated with one product since Ronald Regan pushed Chesterfields. This is great if you are a Trumpster, bad if you prefer a president who doesn’t foment riots and has 34 felony convictions. Oh, I forgot to mention Stormy. You buy a Tesla, you pay Trump. This predicament has led to Tesla buyer’s remorse bumper stickers such as: “I Bought This Before We Knew Elon Was Crazy” and “Anti Elon Tesla Club.” This is countered with: “I bought this after I knew Elon was awesome.”
Who or what was a Tesla? I thought Tesla was a city in Oklahoma. Maybe Elon named his car for one of his 12 children by three women or is an acronym: Texan Elon Sells Lots of Automobiles. No, the vehicles are named for Nikola Tesla, a Serbian- American
engineer who designed the alternating current electricity supply system. Musk could have stayed on path and named the cars X Car. Incidentally, Musk, the richest person in the world, may be a tax cheat. For the third year in a row, the Musk Foundation fell $421 million short of what it was required to give away in 2023. Musk had until the end of 2024 to distribute that money, or he has to pay a large penalty to the IRS.
Amy recharges her Tesla by simply plugging in a cord to her socket at the rear fender just like you would refill your GasGuggler Ford Annihilator and the cost is put on her credit card. This brings us to Clark County, Nevada (Las Vegas) Sheriff Kevin McMahill who said: “I have to thank Elon Musk, specifically. He gave us quite a bit of additional information.” It was in Las Vegas on New Year’s Day that Matthew Livelsberger blew up his Tesla Cybertruck and he was burned beyond recognition. Within hours Tesla used data collected from charging stations and from onboard software to
The storm next time
Ken Fountain Editor
game. (Maybe there really is something to this “climate change” business.)
As a mostly lifelong resident of the Houston area, I have only a few experiences with real snowfall. There was a huge snowstorm here in the early 1970s when I was a youngster, but as it happened that was during a time when my family was living in South Louisiana. There was another major snowstorm during Christmas 2004, but on that occasion, I was in California visiting relatives. The first time in my life I experienced real snowfall
was when I was in the Navy, at an Army post outside Indianapolis, Indiana. (Yes, that’s right, I was in the Navy but at an Army post. Long story which is probably best suited for another time.) A remember the wonderous feeling I had while seeing real snow fall in the courtyard outside my barracks building while wearing my Navy peacoat.
The Houston area had a fairly significant snowfall in the winter of 2008-09, when I was working at a newspaper then based in downtown. The next winter, I was working at a newspaper in a smaller city a couple of counties away but commuting to Houston on the weekends, and there was a fairly significant snowfall. I had to scrape the snowfall off my windshield for the drive back home, the first time I’d ever had to do that.
Then, of course, was Winter Storm Uri in 2021. I woke up early the day of the storm and
watched the snow drift past the lights outside the kitchen window and felt pretty excited. I walked around the block briefly that morning before going back inside. We all remember what happened after that, although those recollections aren’t so fond.
So between waiting for Enzo and putting out the newspaper, Monday was already pretty eventful. To top it off, it also happened to be Inauguration Day, with President Donald Trump being sworn in for his second, nonconsecutive term. I mostly listened to the day’s events on the radio, occasionally going to take a quick look on television.
I’ve said before that it’s difficult for me, as both editor and lead news reporter for the paper, to discuss politics in great detail in my opinion columns. I have to at the same time strive for objectivity while also giving readers from time to time a sense of
what I feel about the events of the day. I discussed the November election at some length shortly afterward, but I’m going to make a stab at doing so again. After the election, I listened to Trump make several remarks pledging that he would help “unify” the country, a very laudable aspiration. We’ve been all too familiar with the increasing level of vitriol that has infected our civil discourse over the last few decades, especially the last one. I, for one, am tired of it and I know many of you are as well. In all honesty, I had my reservations over whether Trump was the President who could help do that. But as a patriot who very much wants our nation to succeed, I strived to maintain some level of hope.
Unfortunately, Trump’s second Inaugural Address and his later remarks to a group of supporters in the
identify the driver and track Livelsberger’s movements from Denver, where he had rented the vehicle, to Las Vegas. Attention Tesla owners: Through his best friend, Trump now knows who you are, where you have been, where you are going – and which bumper sticker you sport. You want to buy a Tesla? You want to wander through the lot and pick out your model and haggle with the salesperson over the price? Don’t give him your money. Instead of dealerships or franchises, Tesla operates showrooms in states that don’t allow direct-to-consumer sales. That includes Texas. The company operates direct car sales through its website and app. You buy a car directly from the maker without middlemen who usually add a markup to the price.
Now we are back in Houston from our round trip to Dallas. The 500-mile trip to Big D plus running around that city cost in electricity was $31.
Ashby charges at ashby2@ comcast.net
Capitol did not hearten me. Unlike in 2016, Trump was the clear victor in the election, and he deserves the chance to achieve his agenda. And with the entire government seemingly in his and his Republican colleagues’ hands, it seems there’s little to stand in his way. But his remarks gave little hint of any intent to unify the country. If anything, they seemed mostly to be a reiteration of most of his longstanding grievances, with a few new ones thrown in for good measure. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll learn how successful Trump will be in achieving his policy goals. Those are one thing. The tenor in which he and his new Administration pursue them is another. Just as with the coming storm, we’ll just have to see what happens. Stay warm, my friends. Fountain can be reached at KFountain@fortbendstar.com
Novotny named new head of Fort Bend Christian Academy
Community Reports
Fort Bend Christian Academy recently announced the appointment of Stephen Novotny as its next Head of School, following an extensive nationwide search.
Novotny is known nationally as a leader in Christian education, public policy, law, and organizational governance, according a press release from the private school. "His career reflects a steadfast commitment to advancing Christian values and educational excellence," the release stated.
Currently based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Novotny serves as a special advisor and senior consultant with Graybeal and Associates, which he Christian schools and nonprofit organizations
nationwide in areas such as strategic planning, policy governance training, operational best practices, and safeguarding religious freedom. Previously, he held the role of vice president of public policy and general counsel for the Association of Christian Schools International, one of the largest Christian school associations in the world.
Novotny previously served as Head of School at Cypress Christian School in the Houston area from 2009 to 2019. Under his leadership, the school experienced significant growth in academic quality, enrollment, operational strength, and mission fulfillment.
Novotny holds a law degree from Baylor University, with postgraduate work
in Theology and Biblical Studies, and a Bachelor of Science degree from Liberty University, where he was recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate. A former U.S. Army platoon leader, Novotny earned an Army Commendation Medal for leadership. Before transitioning into Christian ministry and education, he served as legal counsel for ExxonMobil and other private businesses and nonprofit organizations. He is an active member of both the Texas and Washington State Bars.
Novotny and his wife, Rachel, have two sons, Calvin and Clayton, who both served as U.S. Army Airborne Rangers. Calvin is now a Houston police officer and resides in Hockley, with
his family, while Clayton is a student at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs.
“My wife Rachel and I felt a strong sense of resonance, connection, and confirmation after meeting with the board, the Interim Head of School, the Executive Leadership team, and the FBCA community," Novotny said in the release. "We are excited about what God may do in this new chapter and consider it a distinct privilege to serve in advancing FBCA’s great mission. May God guide us all in this important work we will do together.”
The Novotnys plan to relocate to the Fort Bend area during the spring semester of 2025, and he will assume his role no later than July 1.
Donald Frederick Blakley, 84, Missouri City, Texas, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Missouri City Baptist Church’s Blakley Educational Scholarship Fund in his memory: Address: 16816 Quail Park Dr, Missouri City, TX 77489
Phone: (281) 835-6310
Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1:00 P.M. Saturday, January 18, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment
Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service. Online guest book and obituary at www. meierhoffer.com.
E R E
JAMES CHRISTOPHER “CHRIS” SIECKO
James Christopher “Chris” Siecko, 54, of Sugar Land, Texas passed away on December 5, 2024, as a result of a motor vehicle accident in Jim Wells County. Born on July 5,1970, Chris was the first-born son of Gary and Phyllis Siecko.
Chris graduated from Clements High School with the Class of 88’ and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston. In 2016, he fulfilled a long-held ambition by opening his own business, operating a heavy equipment insurance adjusting company. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he build through his career. Outside his professional life, Chris was a passionate volunteer with the Breeder Greeter Committee at Rodeo Houston for many years, an experience he cherished deeply. An avid outdoorsman, Chris loved deer
hunting, fishing and barbequing. He especially enjoyed spending time at his South Texas deer camp he recently purchased, where he worked tirelessly on improving and maintaining his land. As Chris described, the time and sweat invested was a labor of love with the primary purpose of sharing it with family and friends. Chris was preceded in death by his father, Gary Siecko. He is survived by his loving mother, Phyllis Siecko; his beautiful
daughter, Aubrey Siecko; brother and sister-in-law, Jason and Sarah Siecko; sister and brotherin-law, Amy and Ben Allen; niece, Emma Siecko; and nephews, Johnny Siecko and Oliver Allen.
Chris will be greatly missed and always remembered for his genuine love of family and friends. His vibrant spirit, infectious joy, and the many talents he shared with those around him are what made him special, all precious gifts generously given by Chris we can hold on to forever and always remember.
A celebration of Chris’ life will be held January 25, 2025, at 11 AM, at The Bridge Fellowship, 802 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Coastal Conversation Association of Texas (CCA Texas) and the Lilly Cares Foundation
5.
lived with the Plaintiff.
The child
6. There has been one other proceeding in this matter, namely a domestic violence complaint entitled Afshan F.
Abdul A. Syed, FV-12-462-15, which was dismissed by consent upon the entry of a civil
consent order in a non-dissolution matter of the same name, bearing docket number FD-12-43-15. No prior divorce complaint has been filed. WHEREFORE, Plaintiff demands Judgment: (a) Dissolving the marriage; (b) Awarding Plaintiff sole legal and residential custody of the parties’ child; (c) Awarding child support to the Plaintiff; (d) Equitably distributing all property acquired by the parties during the course of the marriage; (e) For counsel fees and costs; and (f) For such other and further relief as the Court may deem equitable and just. NEMERGUT & DUFF, ESQS. Attorneys for Plaintiff BY:
Dated: September 23, 2024
CERTIFICATION OF VERIFICATION AND NON-COLLUSION
Dated: September 23, 2024
buffers soil pH, regulates temperature and helps prevent erosion. He discussed humus versus organic matter and slowrelease versu fast-release fertilizers. He identified 16 essential plant nutrients, discussed taking soil samples and why having soil tested for nutrients is important. Attendees picked up soil sample forms and bags in which to send their soil samples to Texas the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension testing laboratory.
“Grow Your Own” is a seven-class series about creating a productive edible home garden that is offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Fort Bend County and Master Gardeners. Other classes in the program include “Fruit Trees”, February 1; “Setting Up a Raised Bed/ Planter”, March 1; “Warm
LEGAL NOTICE
Season Vegetables & Herbs”, April 5; “Vegetable Disease & Pest Management”, May 10; “Composting”, June 14; and “Cool Season Vegetables & Herbs,” August 9. Learn more at fortbend.agrilife.org/ grow-your-own-2. “Landscape Success” also is a seven-class series. The first class is “Growing a Great Lawn” on January 24 at 1 p.m. on Zoom. Other classes in the online series include “Landscape Basics”, February 28; “Flowering Plants for 4 Seasons”, March 28; “Using Irrigation Wisely”, April 25; “Shade Gardening-Ideas and Tips”, May 23; “Tree Care Basics”, June 27; and “Winter Protection” Aug. 22. Learn more at fortbend.agrilife.org/ landscape-success. Each series offers registrants a video of their class for future reference. For questions and information, contact Brandy Rader at 281342-3034 or brandy.rader@ ag.tamu.edu.
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
LEGAL NOTICE
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.
cation should be remanded to the executive director’s staff for further review.
But Paul Sarahan, an Austin-based environmental lawyer representing Julpit, argued that the ambiguity over the name of the company had been resolved in later filings and that updated maps showing the “emission point” of the facility had been provided in TCEQ’s Austin and Houston offices as well as at the public hearing last August.
Those points were reiterated by a lawyer representing the TCEQ executive director. However, a lawyer from the TCEQ’s Office of Public Interest largely agreed with the points raised by Wotring. When the matter came up to a vote, Brooke Paup, the commission’s new chairperson, read a prepared statement saying that because of the concerns raised by the county, she would recommend that the permit be put on hold and remanded to the executive director. Bobby Janecka and Catarina Gonzales, the other two commissioners, voiced their agreement and the vote to remand quickly followed.
It is unknown how long it might take for the executive director to complete its review.
The Fort Bend County leadership is also acting to oppose a proposed concrete batch plant in Missouri City, which was the subject of another heated public meeting in December.
TCEQ commissioners last week remanded a permit application for a proposed concrete-crushing plant in Rosharon back to the commission staff for review. Here the proposed plant location is seen in
Master Gardener Dan Lawlor discusses soil, its
Center in Rosenberg. Contributed photo
From Detroit with Love: Dinner and Motown Magic at the Stafford Centre
For one night only, the sounds of Motown will fill the Stafford Centre in a magical evening blending music, nostalgia, and community. The Stars of the Sixties Show with The Motortown All-Stars and Rockin’ 60’s Dinner on Wednesday, February 26, offers a rare opportunity to experience the magic of Motown in an authentic, unforgettable way. However, what makes this event truly special goes beyond the music or the retro-themed dinner. It’s the love story behind it and the community collaboration that made it possible.
A Symphony of Soul
The centerpiece of the evening is the Stars of the Sixties Show, featuring The Motortown All-Stars, a group of musicians from the golden era of Motown direct from Detroit. The Motortown All-Stars is a supergroup with former members of The Contours, The Miracles, and The Temptations. They will deliver a performance steeped in history and soul. Adding a distinctive local element, The Motortown All-Stars will be accompanied by a 28-piece orchestra under the direction of Dominique Røyem, music director and conductor of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra.
“This experience is unique for me as a symphony conductor because I get to work with artists that really epitomize the Motown sound and character,” Røyem shared. “As a big fan of Motown, I am looking forward to delving into the music with such an illustrious group of musicians.”
From “My Girl” to “Dancing in the Street”, the show will feature an extraordinary setlist, including hits by Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Miracles, Four Tops, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5. This high-energy tribute is more than a concert; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate across generations.
A Retro Pop-Up Diner
The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with an immersive Rockin’ 60’s Dinner culinary experience in a retro dinerthemed ballroom by local favorite Fresh & Savory. Adolfo Garcia of Fresh & Savory shared, “Not only will there be delicious food, but there will also be Minh’s Famous Cheesecake. The fans demanded it, so there will be two kinds- classic cheesecake with strawberry and chocolate cheesecake.” The meal, served continuously until the start of the show, will be a nostalgic journey back in time. The dinner will be accompanied by live music from
The Matchsticks, setting the perfect tone for a memorable evening. The ballroom will feature 60’s-inspired decor, including a photo-op carhop, vintage candy giveaways, and door prizes from local Stafford businesses- Better Bling Studio, Court Hardware, Evolution by Design, Fresh & Savory, Houston Badminton Center, Shaz Graphics & Printing, Stafford Centre, and Tony Mitchell Fitness.
The Rockin’ 60’s Dinner is more than just a meal with friends, family, and loved ones; it’s a tribute to the city of Stafford and a celebration of the small businesses that are the backbone of our community.
Jerry Levit: The Heart and Soul At the core of Stars of the Sixties and Rockin’ 60’s Dinner is Jerry Levit. He is a passionate fan of 60’s music and a dedicated advocate of small businesses. For Levit and his wife Rona, music isn’t just entertainment, it’s a cornerstone of their story. Their first dance song at their wedding, “This Magic Moment” by The Drifters, is the origin story of this show. It symbolizes their enduring love and shared appreciation for the golden era of Motown.
Levit’s passion extends far beyond personal nostalgia. He has made it his mission to bring the magic of 60’s music to Stafford and unite the community in the process. That’s why he approached Joseph Mirrione of Praia Entertainment Group. Mirrione is the creator of the Pop, Rock & Doo Wop and Stars of the Sixties concert series. Levit was determined to persuade Mirrioine to bring the concert series to Texas. However, Levit didn’t just pitch a show. He envisioned an ecosystem, “We have what I call a trifecta: The Stafford Centre, the local small business owners, and The Motortown All-Stars.”
Levit’s enthusiasm is infectious, and his dedication to local businesses is unwavering. He shared, “I’ve always had a passion for supporting small businesses competing against big businesses. It runs in my genes.” From door-knocking to forging connections with small business owners to create a support network for the show, Levit has transformed this show into a celebration of
Stafford’s harmony. “I’ve always admired the resilience and creativity of small businesses,” he says. “They’re the backbone of our community, and events like this are a way to showcase their talent and contributions.”
The Miracles of Motown Motown is more than a record label; it’s a cultural movement. Founded by Berry Gordy in Detroit in 1959, Motown introduced the world to a new kind of music. It was a fusion of soul, pop, and rhythm and blues that transcended racial and social barriers. From “You Can’t Hurry Love” to “Tracks of My Tears”, Motown’s catalog includes some of the most enduring songs in American music history. It wasn’t just the sound that set Motown apart, it was the way it brought people together. During a time of societal division, Motown created a soundtrack of unity and hope, offering music that resonated universally.
Motown’s influence reached far beyond the charts, shaping fashion, dance, and even social movements. Iconic artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and The Temptations became symbols of excellence and innovation, breaking down barriers and achieving success on an unprecedented scale. For many, Motown represents a golden era when music had the power to heal, inspire, and connect.
The Motortown All-Stars bring this legacy to life, performing with an authenticity and energy that only those who lived it can provide. Mirrione emphasized the unique appeal of the group: “These musicians don’t just perform the songs; they embody the spirit of Motown. The energy they bring to the stage is unlike anything else. It’s a chance for audiences to experience the magic of this music as it was meant to be felt- live and full of soul.”
The Perfect Gift: Signed, Sealed, Delivered With Valentine’s Day approaching, The Stars of the Sixties Show with The Motortown All-Stars and The Rockin’ 60’s Dinner offers an iconic experience. It isn’t just another concert or dinner; it’s an immersive experience. From the moment guests step into the Stafford Centre, they’ll be transported to another era of timeless melodies, soulful performances, and a sense of community that transcends time.
The combination of The Motortown All-Stars with Motown’s living legends, a 28-piece orchestra conducted with the artistic brilliance of Dominique Røyem, and a vintage pop-up diner with
Fresh & Savory’s awardwinning retro eats makes this event truly magical. The dinner is all you can eat so it’s alright if you ain’t too proud to beg for Mihn’s Famous Cheesecake.
For Levit, it’s a dream realized. “This isn’t just a show; it’s a chance to bring people together,” he said. “Music has a way of connecting us, and I wanted to create an event that celebrates that connection.” Serendipitously, the first concert in The Stars of the Sixties series in 2017 at the Stafford Centre featured the Drifters and Jay and the Americans, who sang “This Magic Moment” together. Levit’s love for his wife, music, and small businesses will endure forever ‘til the end of time.
Event Details: The Stars of the Sixties Show with The Motortown
All-Stars and The Rockin’ 60’s Dinner will be held on Wednesday, February 26 at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Rd., Stafford. The Rockin’ 60’s Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m., with tickets priced at $49. A $5 discount per ticket is available ($45 per ticket) for The Fort Bend Star readers who call Fresh & Savory Deli & Grill directly at (281) 879-1203 and mention “Fort Bend Star.”
The Motortown AllStars show starts at 7:30 p.m.. Tickets, starting at $51.25, can be purchased online at tinyurl.com/ MotortownAllStars. Groups of 10 or more can use the code GRP10 for a 10% discount. Learn more: The Motortown All-Stars: motortownallstars.com
• Tony Mitchell Fitness: instagram.com/ tonymitchellfitness
Janet Sue Reid lives in Sugar Land. She shares the stories of local Texas artists, entrepreneurs, dreamers, advocates, and underdogs to inspire creativity, kindness, and connections in our community. Contact her through ReidFeed.com.
From Detroit with Love: Dinner and Motown Magic at the Stafford Centre on Febrary 26: The Motortown All-Stars; Jerry Levit; Adolfo Garcia of
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to editor@fortbendstar.com FOR NON- PROFIT
THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES
ONGOING
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE GRAND PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCH
In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, GPBC will offer ESL classes on Tuesday nights from mid August 2024 through May 2025. We are located at 12000 FM 1464 Richmond across from Austin HS. Our students speak several languages and encompass
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
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
ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264
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.
LAND ROTARY CLUB
SUGAR
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
Filing for Sugar Land elections continues
EXCHANGE,
and
EXCHANGE
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
through Feb. 14 Filing for the May 3 elections for Sugar Land mayor and council positions continues through Feb. 14. File photo
Community Reports
A general election filing period for the positions of Sugar Land City Council Mayor and At-Large Positions 1 and 2 opened on January 15, and will close February 14, at 5 p.m.. The election will take place on May 3 at Sugar Land City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North.
“Serving on City Council is a meaningful way to contribute to Sugar Land’s growth and success,” said Linda Mendenhall, City Clerk. Residents who are passionate about our community and are considering running for these positions can find more
information about the election by visiting the Candidate Portal at www.sugarlandtx. gov/elections . Important dates for voting follow: Thursday, April 3: last day to submit voter registration application in time to vote in the May election. Monday, April 22: first day for early voting by personal appearance Tuesday, April 22: last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Tuesday, April 29: last day of early voting by personal appearance May 3: election day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
