More than a year-anda-half after a proposal to redevelop Sugar Land’s long-dormant Imperial Char House and the surrounding area was first floated by a developer and city officials, the project continues while encountering some snags, the city said in an email to residents last week.
Missouri City council amends noise ordinance
The Missouri City City Council voted unanimously last week to make adjustments to the city’s noise ordinance, even while bemoaning the impetus of the changes came about.
The ordinance, which has been in place for decades, was amended to add a set of “considerations” that Missouri City police officers may use when deciding to issue citations based on complaints of excessive noise by residents.
Among those, Police Chief Brandon Harris told Council members, are the “reasonable person” standard of a person “of normal sensibilities” who
makes a complaint, the authorized land use of the location from which the noise is emanating, and other factors.
The factor that was most discussed during the council’s June 17 regular meeting was whether to implement time of day of a complaint to the suite of considerations officers can take into account.
Harris, who has spent his entire law enforcement career with the Missouri City police department, said that he had been enforcing the existing ordinance “for 29 years, and it works.”
But, based on a set of complaints in recent months, mostly involving just two locations in the city, the Council earlier this year asked that the
ordinance be revisited. Harris told the council that he and city staff, including the city attorney, had examined noise ordinances from a number of different cities, and that the “were all over the map” in the approaches they took. Harris said everyone agreed that the “reasonable person” standard was still the best approach.
Following Harris’s presentation, all of the council members weighed in with their questions and comments. One theme that was prevalent in the questioning was whether certain residents were already or would abuse the ability to make a complaint.
Investigations continue in deadly MCDP crash
In January 2023, Sugar Land City Council approved a $5 million package to assist PUMA, a self-described “boutique” development company based in Houston in the long-sought redevelopment of the char house, which had first been announced the previous December. In February, the council voted with a super majority to approve an amendment to the city’s Land Use Plan allowing for the construction of up to 660 multi-family units in the Imperial Market District, one of the linchpins of a Houston developer’s proposal to redevelop the area. That vote had been a contentious one, as it overrode a previous recommendation by the city’s planning and zoning commission in the way of strong and vocal opposition by some residents, largely over concerns over the addition and number of apartments, traffic issues and the like.
In September, PUMA representatives presented initial designs for the proposed development in a presentation to the city council. They said then that the Char House renovations could be completed by the end of 2025.
The Imperial Char House, built in the 1920s, was the most prominent building of the Imperial Sugar refining facility, which was long the key economic driver for the city and gave the city its name. While it has not been operational for at least two decades, the building remains one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.
One question that has lingered over the project since its announcement was whether and when PUMA would secure the outside financing required to complete the total project. That question was addressed in an email sent by the city to interested residents last week.
nvestigations continue this week into the causes of an incident in which a mother and her teenage son were killed in a collision with a Missouri City police car which was in pursuit of a robbery suspect.
The collision occurred near the intersection of Cartwright Road and Texas Parkway on the evening of Thursday, June 20. According to a press release from the Missouri City Police Department, dispatchers received a 911 call at approximately 8:42 p.m. from a victim who reported a robbery in progress at an ATM machine in the 1600 block of Cartwright Road. According to the caller, a man approached the caller with a handgun and
demanded money. After the victim gave the man approximately $200, the man fled in a silver Honda passenger car. The victim was following the suspect while calling 911, according to the release.
A responding police officer was traveling east in the 1600-1700 block of Cartwright when it struck another vehicle, unrelated to the initial call, that was exiting a parking lot of a large strip center at the intersection. The two occupants of the car were later pronounced dead by Fort Bend EMS.
Sgt. Stephen Woodard, an area spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety who was on the scene of the incident on Thursday, confirmed Monday that the occupants of the car were Angela Stewart, 53, of Stafford, and her 16-year-old son, Mason Stewart, who was
driving the car. The DPS is conducting the investigation of the incident, as is common in accidents involving local police departments, Woodard said. Additional details might be available as early as Tuesday, he said.
The police officer was transported to the Texas Medical Center, and had been released by Friday morning. A male occupant of the back seat of the police car was taken to Ben Taub Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. His condition has not yet been released. Neither of their names have been officially released, nor why the person was in the police vehicle, had been officially released by press
made by a community member displays a photo of Angela Stewart and her son Mason, of Stafford, who were killed in a collision with a Missouri City police vehicle last week. Photos by Ken Fountain
The Missouri City City Council voted unanimously last week to make adjustments to the city’s noise ordinance. File photo by Ken Fountain
Laura Carrera of the Houstonbased Urbano Architects firm presents proposed schematics of the redesigned Imperial Char House at a Sugar Land City Council meeting last September. The project has hit a financing snag. FIle photo by Ken Fountain
George Memorial library to host photography class on June 29
Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library will present an introductory program, “Photography 101,” on Saturday, June 29, from 1-4 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond.
Presented by library staff member Bryan Bankston, who also happens to be a professional photographer, the workshop will provide an
opportunity for amateur photographers to learn basic principles of photography and to maximize use of their camera. Attendees will learn about different choices to consider when purchasing a camera, such as megapixels, sensor size, lens, battery, memory card, and LCD options. They will also explore the basics of camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO and white balance, and their effects
on exposure. Attendees can get composition tips on how to make your photos more expressive and artistic, as well as hear about lighting options, including available light, flash, and other possibilities in poor lighting situations. The class is free and open to the public. For more information, see Fort Bend County Libraries’ website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call George Memorial Library (281-342-4515).
District B Council Member
Jeffrey L. Boney, in particular, peppered Harris and City Attorney E. Joyce Iyamu with a set of questions about the legal consequences residents might face for yelling “fire” in a movie theater or making repeated false reports of a crime.
Harris noted that while all of those circumstances could involve criminal penalties, making noise complaints does not. Later on, he shared that thus far in the fiscal year, the police department had responded to 592 complaints of excessive noise, 375 of which were at various businesses and residences across the city. 137 of the complaints were made about noise at B’s Wine Bar, a restaurant and bar in the 8000 block
“PUMA is still interested in developing this project. However, in these tough financial markets, PUMA and the City have not been able to secure the financing needed to start development,” the email said. “PUMA was unable to continue extending the
of Highway 6, near the Rustlers Crossing Subdivision. Of those, the “vast majority” were made by one person. Another 13 complaints were made about noise from the Ranch at Sienna apartment complex, Harris said.
Boney said that he wanted the council to put in place an ordinance that protects the rights of “all residents and businesses,” including being protected from excessive and unwarranted harassment by others.
Boney’s comments were echoed by many of the other members of the council, including Mayor Robin Elackatt, who said “we love all our businesses.” District C Council member Anthony Maroulis said special care should be made to avoid “neighbor versus neighbor” situations. When the discussion came down to an actual vote, both
purchasing contracts and is therefore no longer in contract to buy the Imperial property. Once financing is secured, PUMA is interested in getting the land back under contract and continuing to work with the City on this project.
“From the start, the City’s top priority has been the preservation and redevelopment of the Char House – and it still is. We
Harris and Iyamu repeatedly stressed that the proposed changes to the ordinance would include only considerations that officers might use when making citation determinations. There was much discussion of whether a time consideration was a good idea, especially since many businesses like restaurants or hotels routinely hold events, or even normal operations, that go late into the evening. Boney said that he would like the ordinance to include a time element that applied evenly across the city, including at event centers on Texas Parkway that received special zoning allowances outside their location’s ordinary land use.
In the end, the council voted 6-0 to approve the proposed changes, with the amendment of a time consideration element of midnight to 6:59 a.m.
recognize the importance of preserving Sugar Land’s history not only for our community, but as part of our city’s identity and we are committed to seeing the redevelopment of this site through till the end,” the email said. Last year, the City Council named the Imperial and Lake Pointe districts as the city’s top redevelopment priorities.
Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 4918A, which would authorize continued operation of the Concrete Batch Plant located at 3002 Farm-to-Market 2977 Road, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Texas 77469. This application is being processed in an expedited manner, as allowed by the commission’s rules in 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 101, Subchapter J. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/ airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.7559,29.51&level=13. The existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the following air contaminants: particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on June 4, 2024. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional office, and the Fort Bend County George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. An amendment application that is not subject to public notice or an opportunity for a contested case hearing is also being reviewed. The reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application. AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Cemex Construction Materials Houston, LLC., 16100 Dillard Drive, Jersey Village, Texas 77040-2077 or by calling Mr. Daniel Escobar, Senior Environmental Manager, at (832) 247-9836. Notice Issuance Date: June 12, 2024
The George Memorial Library in Richmond will host a “Photography 101” class on Saturday, June 29, from 1-4 p.m. Photo by Ken Fountain
The Reid Feed:SugarLandonthesilverscreen
Steven Spielberg, a name now synonymous with blockbuster hits and cinematic brilliance, made his feature film directorial debut with “The Sugarland Express’’ in 1974. (Yes, the movie used the one-word spelling of the city’s name, then still widely used if not official.) Set and filmed in Sugar Land here in Fort Bend County, this early work showcased the nascent genius of Spielberg and set the stage for an illustrious career. The movie stars Goldie Hawn and William Atherton as a couple on the run, attempting to reclaim their child from foster care, leading to a dramatic police chase across Texas.
“The Sugarland Express” tells the gripping story of Lou Jean Poplin (Hawn), and her husband Clovis (Atherton), who break out of a minimum-security prison in an attempt to retrieve their son from foster care. The film captures the intense pursuit by law enforcement, turning into a state-wide spectacle as the Poplins take a patrolman hostage. Through this intense and emotional journey, Spielberg weaves a tale of desperation, love, and the lengths to which one would go for family. The film’s tension and pace are a testament to Spielberg’s burgeoning directorial style, laying the groundwork for his future successes.
The production of “The Sugar Land Express” was a significant undertaking. Spielberg, at just 26 years old, was making his transition from television to feature films. The script, based on a true story, was written by Hal Barwood and Matthew Robbins, who meticulously crafted a narrative that blended suspense with emotion. One interesting fact about the production is that the real-life incident upon which the movie was based occurred in 1969 and involved Ila Fae Holiday and her husband Robert. The film’s dedication to authenticity included using actual locations in Sugar Land and surrounding areas, providing a gritty realism that added to its impact.
Financially, the film had a modest budget of around $3 million. Despite its relatively low earnings at the box office, grossing approximately $12 million, it was a critical success and demonstrated Spielberg’s potential to handle larger projects. The movie was well-received at the Cannes Film Festival, where it
won the Best Screenplay award (the script was by Hal Barwood and Matthew Robbins, who collaborated with Spielberg on the story), highlighting the film’s narrative strength.
The Spielberg-Williams partnership begins in Sugar Land One of the most notable aspects of “The Sugar Land Express’’ is that it marked the beginning of the legendary collaboration between Steven Spielberg and composer John Williams. Williams, who had already made a name for himself in the industry, brought a musical depth to the film that complemented Spielberg’s vision. Their collaboration would go on to become one of the most celebrated partnerships in film history, producing iconic scores for movies like “Jaws,” “E.T.,” “Jurassic Park,” and the “Indiana Jones’’ series. Williams’ ability to translate Spielberg’s visual storytelling into unforgettable musical themes became a hallmark of their work together. For instance, the hauntingly suspenseful score of “Jaws” became a cultural phenomenon, demonstrating how music could enhance the emotional and narrative impact of a film. This collaboration not only elevated Spielberg’s movies but also set a new standard for film scoring in Hollywood. How cool is it to think that their illustrious partnership filled with countless Oscar statuettes and billion dollar box office blockbusters all started in Sugar Land.
Sugar Land as a cinematic backdrop and the broader economic impact of film production
Filming “The Sugar Land Express’’ in Sugar Land brought both attention and financial benefits to the local area. The production utilized local landmarks and landscapes, turning the then-small city into a bustling film set. This influx of activity provided the city an economic boost, as the film crew and cast stayed in local hotels, dined in local restaurants, and utilized various local services. That’s what makes the production of films such a potent economic engine. Just consider the credits that roll at the end of any film these days and the sheer amount of manpower it takes for a single film to come to fruition. And that’s not even taking into account the indirect financial boost to the local economy.
At the time Spielberg made the film, the financial impact on Sugar Land was significant. Local businesses saw increased revenue, and the presence of a major film production brought a sense of excitement and pride to the community. This positive economic impact is a testament to the broader benefits that film production can bring to local economies. The economic benefits of attracting film production to an area extend well beyond the immediate financial boost. Studies have shown that for every dollar spent on attracting film production, approximately five dollars are returned to the local economy and as much as $1.3 million can be injected into local economies
per day when a film shoots on location. This return on investment comes from various sources, including increased tourism, job creation, and the utilization of local services.
Tourism often receives a significant boost, as fans of the film visit the shooting locations, contributing to the local economy through their spending on accommodations, food, and entertainment. Additionally, film production can create numerous jobs, both directly and indirectly, from hiring local crew members to increased demand for services like catering and transportation. Furthermore, the presence of a film production can enhance the visibility and reputation of a locale, making it more attractive for future projects. This can create a sustainable economic impact, as areas become known as filmfriendly destinations.
Sugar Land’s future in film production
Given the proven economic benefits of film production, Sugar Land should actively pursue opportunities to attract filmmakers. The city’s unique landscapes and historical sites provide an ideal backdrop for various genres, making it an attractive option for producers. Not to mention Texas’s well known business friendly policies and incentive programs.
One current development in Sugar Land is the rapidstart power plant project along Highway 90. While this project aims to address energy needs, envisioning a film production studio
in this location could offer substantial economic advantages. The establishment of a film studio would not only create jobs but also attract a steady stream of business to local hotels, restaurants, and service providers.
Comparing economic benefits
The proposed power plant along Highway 90 is a significant investment aimed at enhancing the region’s energy infrastructure. However, a film production studio could offer even greater economic benefits. The establishment of a studio would likely result in a consistent influx of film projects, each bringing with it a new wave of economic activity. This could lead to sustained job creation and continuous boosts to local businesses.
Moreover, a film studio could position Sugar Land as a key player in the entertainment industry, attracting talent and resources that could lead to further investment and development in the region, especially considering its close proximity to the fourth-largest city in the U.S., which could soon surpass Chicago to become the third-largest. The creative energy and economic stimulation from such a project could transform the local economy, providing longterm benefits that outweigh the initial investment.
Call to action: community involvement
As Sugar Land contemplates its future development, community members are encouraged
TO ALL
to consider the benefits of attracting film production to the area. The potential for economic growth, job creation, and increased tourism makes this an exciting opportunity for the city. Residents with questions, comments, or concerns are urged to reach out to their local representatives. For those interested in discussing the impact of a large power plant in the heart of Sugar Land vs. the economic potential of a film production studio in Sugar Land, U.S. Rep. Liz Fletcher can be contacted at (202) 225-2571 or via email at liz.fletcher@mail.house. gov, and Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman can be reached at (281) 275-2710 or via email at mayor@ sugarlandtx.gov. Engaging with local representatives is a crucial step in advocating for initiatives that can drive economic growth and enhance the community’s cultural landscape and deter projects that negatively affect the environment and our citizens’ livelihoods. By embracing the opportunities presented by film production, Sugar Land can build on its rich history and continue to grow as a vibrant, economically thriving city.
Ryan Lee Reid, “The Piano Cowboy”, and Janet Sue Reid, “The Culinary Cowgirl”, are artists and creators. They transform space and time to move and heal people through art. They live in Sugar Land with their children. Find their full bios and contact them through ReidFeed.com.
PERSONS AND PARTIES:
Cemex Construction Materials Houston, LLC., has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 4918A, which would authorize continued operation of the Concrete Batch Plant located at 3002 Farm-to-Market 2977 Road, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Texas 77469. This application is being processed in an expedited manner, as allowed by the commission’s rules in 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 101, Subchapter J. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
“The Sugarland Express,” Steven Spielberg’s first feature film, starred Goldie Hawn and William Atherton with the city of Sugar Land and environs as its setting. The 1973 film, based on a true story, also marked the beginning of Spielberg’s longstanding collaboration with composer John Williams. Photo montage by Janet Sue Reid
By Ryan Lee Reid and Janet Sue Reid
Art and Culture Columnists
Janet Sue Ryan Lee
EDITORIAL
Reading, writing, and revenge
By Lynn Ashby ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET
Question: Is Gov. Greg Abbot deliberately trying to wreck Texas’ public schools? Answer: Obviously. Question: Why? Answer: I blame Duncanville High School, but let me explain.
Gov. Abbot has this weird obsession with school vouchers, prioritizing them right up there with floating giant balloons along the Rio. After failing to get the regular session of the Legislature to pass his school voucher bill, Abbot called three special sessions -- the longest sessions in history (246 days). Each 30-day session costs Texan taxpayers about $1.3 million. Still no charter school bill, so he went about defeating
those Republican members of the House in GOP primaries who had consistently torpedoed his plan, and it worked. With the financial help of a couple of West Texas billionaires and $6 million from some rich guy in Pennsylvania, Abbott ousted six out of the eight seats he went after. The guv now says he has enough lackeys in the House to pass his pet bill on charter schools. (Some call it school vouchers, others call it school choice while Abbot calls it “a bulwark against illegal criminal aliens, woke propagandists, transgender people and following God’s will.” Or something like that.)
No matter what you call his plan, it would simply take money from our public schools and give the funds to private schools. He wants to give vouchers to parents who want to switch their kids $10,000 a year. Considering that tuition at Houston’s St. John’s is $35,535 for its high school while the Kinkaid School goes up to $33,655, I’m not sure how 10k would help. By some estimates, vouchers would cost taxpayers $568.9 million in 2025, $791.1 million in 2026, and $1.2
billion in fiscal year 2028. But Texas also has 1,200 accredited private schools, with over 60 percent being religiously affiliated. Could the parents qualify for a voucher? If Texas were to provide vouchers for 1 million children attending private schools or being homeschooled, it would cost approximately $8 billion annually. But the state allocates funds based on how many students a district has, so by siphoning off students to private schools, the districts would actually lose even more funds.
As we’ve noted before, Texas has a long tradition of public education. Even the Texas Declaration of Independence (1836), in citing its grievances against the Mexican government, states: “It has failed to establish any public system of education…” And our state constitution orders: “it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.”
Texas already is embarrassingly cheap when it comes to spending on our school kids. We are ranked in the bottom 10 in the country. The national average on funds spent per student is about $13,500. Texas per-student funding in fiscal year 2023 was $6,669. That is even less than $6,680 spent per student in 2014 when Abbott was first elected governor. And no wonder the state has a shortage of teachers. They are paid about $9,000 less than the national average, while 70 percent of educators have considered leaving the profession in the past year, and 75 percent report experiencing burnout.
This brings us to our beloved Texas lawmakers. Gov. Abbot’s weird obsession with school vouchers and charter schools is directly related to our lack of funding for our public schools. The Legislature has not increased the basic allotment since 2019, despite inflation. In its last session, the Legislature had $33 billion in surplus funds and another $24 billion in the rainy day fund. Some $5 billion was allocated for public schools, including a pay raise for our teachers, but that money was never approved because it was part of the guv’s defeated school voucher plan. Meantime, our school districts are frantically trying get by with teacher cuts, firing librarians and prob -
the leader Puzzlers.
ably making the coaches teach something beyond driver’s Ed. The Plano ISD is facing a deficit for the 2024-2025 school year of $37 million -- up from $24 million the previous year. The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD budget projects a $138 million deficit. Conroe ISD has a projected budget deficit of $16.6 million. Katy ISD has a projected budget deficit of $7.8 million and Friendswood ISD projects a deficit of more than $705,000. Even after deciding to close three campuses in February, Aldine ISD is looking at a $100 million deficit budget. Houston superintendent Mike Miles estimated that the district will face a $450 million budget gap next year. Incidentally, did Gov. Abbott scrap the HISD school board and send in Miles to deliberately sabotage the Houston public schools? Granted, many of those schools have been in dreadful shape for years and they needed fixing, but if chaos was the goal, it has been achieved remarkably well. Now to explain why our governor is so hung up on ruining our public schools. He is a product of them, specifically Duncanville High School. (Duncanville is in southwestern Dallas
County.) The high school sits on the second-largest high school campus in the United States with 80,188.1 square miles. As the locals like to brag, “It’s the size of four combined Walmart Supercenters.” They are the Panthers, not the Duncan Donuts. Abbot graduated from Duncanville High School, where he was in the National Honor Society, was on the track team and was voted Most Likely to Succeed. Still, maybe he was bullied or something and retains a deep hatred for his school, and vowed, “Someday I’ll be governor and get back at the public schools in Texas by diverting their money to private schools. I’ll ruin every one of them.” And he is succeeding. The worst part of all of this is that these charter schools can cherry-pick which students they let in. No under-achievers wanted. But if your daughter is a genius, she’s in. If your son can run, kick, pass or block, he’s in, too. So look for the destruction of Texas high school football as we know it. There go Friday Night Lights.
Ashby doesn’t vouch at ashby2@comcast.net
SUDOKU
Communist
dOwn
1. Come into conflict 2. A collection of things wrapped together
3. Bath spatter 4. Gunsmoke actress Blake 5. Direct to a source 6. Cartoonist Capp 7. Somewhat blue 8. 40 weekday periods 9. El Dorado High School (abbr.) 11. Heartbeat 12. Brit. rutabaga 17. Angle (abbr.)
18. Said as a greeting or wish 19. Festivals 23. Rita ___, singer 24. Belonging to us
27. Skating jumps
28. Building at 175 5th Ave.
29. Parts per billion (abbr.)
30. Atomic mass unit
32. Old Spanish currency (abbr.)
33. Insistence on traditional correctness
34. PBS wildlife show 35. Measuring blocks 36. Don’t know when yet
37. Ancient city from which St. Paul first sailed
38. Breadwinner
39. Go to bed
40. Highest in degree or quality
42. Tossed, potato or waldorf
43. The trunk of a tree
49. Yes in Spanish
Lynn Ashby Columnist
speak several languages and encompass many faiths, all are welcome. For more information call 281-277-2200 and ask for ESL information. You may also email ESL@grandparkway. org MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND CONCERT HONORS FALLEN HEROES
The Exchange Club of Sugar Land presents “A Night to Remember” on Sunday, May 26, at 7:05 p.m. The patriotic concert features a brass band, Grammy winning singers, ballet dancers and a 30-member chorus. The concert takes place in Sugar Land Town Square, in front of the City Hall Façade. Bring a chair and join us!
“A Night to Remember” is FREE and open to the public. Canned food donations are encouraged for East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry
LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF FORT BEND
The League of Women Voters of Fort Bend, a nonpartisan organization, will provide voter registration and education events prior to the Feb. 5 deadline to be a registered voter in the March 5 Primary election. Locations, dates, and times include: (1) Wednesday, 1/24 -- Fort Bend YMCA, 4433 Cartwright Rd, Missouri City 7:30am - 12:30pm and 57pm; (2) Thursday, 1/25 -- First Colony Library 3:30 - 5:30pm; (3) Sat., 1/27 -- Cinco Ranch Library 10:30am - 1:30pm and University Branch
Sugar Land, Brazos Hall, 9am - 2pm; (5) Thursday, 2/1 -- ThriftWise, 501 Hwy 90E, Richmond -- 10am - 1pm. Register to vote, update your current voter registration, and get nonpartisan voting information at any of these events, or contact lwvfortbend@gmail.com.
NO HOCUS POCUS IN MUSIC MAGIC CLASS FOR 6 & 7-YEAR-OLD BOYS!
Young boys need music in their life for mental, physical and emotional growth and the best place to receive quality music instruction is with the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas! They offer Music Magic, an eight-week music enrichment class for six and seven-year-old boys. The Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas, currently in its 42 nd season, brings music alive with the use of movement, musical games, singing and other child-centered activities. Boys learn about pitch matching and rhythm awareness in addition to developing large muscle coordination, increased focus and better musicianship. Music Magic helps boost brainpower, sparks creativity and forges strong connections with others. No auditions are necessary for the class – just a love of music and singing! Serving as Music Magic director is Founder and Artistic Director William R. Adams who leads this class on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. – 7:15 p.m., beginning March 19 and ending May 14 at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City. Music Magic will then sing at the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s annual Spring Concert on Saturday, May 18! Classes are limited in size so please call the choir office at (281) 240- 3800 to pre-register or visit their Music Magic web page at https://fbbctx.org/our- programs/music-magic/. Be sure to stop by their Facebook page for the latest on the Fort Bend Boys Choir's Music Magic class and the organization's public performances.
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
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.
SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB
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, 469-8502424, dean7351@gmail.com. We’re a friendly group that meets once a week for lunch.
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, 281-575-1145 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.
