The 08-16-23 Edition of The Fort Bend Star

Two men charged in death of Guy man

Staff Reports

Two men have been arrested for murder and/or tempering with physical evidence in the death of a Guy man, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.

Fort Bend County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Austin Christopher Horn, 24, for murder and tampering with physical evidence (altering or destroying a human corpse), and Matthew Allen Dubec, 29, for tampering with physical evidence (altering or destroying a human corpse) in the death of Kevin Wayne Fojtik, 45, of Guy, according to a news release.

Fort Bend County imposes burn ban

Fort Bend County Commissioner’s Court last week unanimously approved a 90-day outdoor burn ban for unincorporated areas of the county

As the extreme heat continues and drought conditions progress, the risk for fire dangers increase. The Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office has been monitoring the Keetch-Bryam Drought Index used to determine forest fire potential. The drought index is based on a daily water balance, where a drought factor is balanced with precipita-

tion and soil moisture. The drought index ranges from 0 to 800, where a drought index of 0 represents no moisture depletion, and an index of 800 represents absolutely dry conditions. As of August 8, Fort Bend County’s index was 651.

After Interim Fire Marshal Justin Jurek made a presentation on index values and the continued forecast of extreme heat with no rain, Commissioner’s Court came to a consensus that circumstances present in the county can potentially create a public safety hazard. The Declaration and Order Prohibiting Outdoor Burning in Fort Bend

County states that no person burn or order another to burn any material outside of an enclosure designed to contain and capable of containing all flames, sparks, embers, cinders and ash produced by burning. Therefore, limits the use of open flames which includes burning trash, campfires, using burn barrels and any other open flame devices.

County Judge KP George is authorized to sign an order rescinding the order if he determines, upon consultation with the Fire Marshal, that drought conditions or hazardous circumstances no longer exist.

George touts accomplishments, looks ahead during ‘State of the County’ address

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend County Judge KP George and other officials laid out a case for the county as a growing, fast-evolving place to live and work during the annual “State of the County” address last week.

The event, hosted by Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, drew a capacity audience of other officials and business leaders to an ornate ballroom at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land.

George is a Democrat who was reelected to his second term last November. As noted in his introduction, as an In-

dian-American he is the first top elected official of South Asian descent of a county that has become known widely known as one of the ethnically diverse counties in the United States.

George’s talk was interspersed the highly polished videos showing of the county’s history and present-day assets. Geroge also gave much of the approximately hour-long presentation to many other county elected officials and staff members who talked about their respective roles.

“We can all be confident in the state of Fort Bend County today,” George said. “It is blessed with a diverse and talented population, a

strong workforce and business team, great schools, a key location and plenty of natural resources that make this great place that we call home.”

Even with all those modern assets, George said, Fort Bend maintains “a smalltown appeal of a county and community where neighbors still look after each other.”

George noted the challenges that Fort Bend has had since his tenure began in 2019, notably several severe weather events, the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic downturn that followed. Currently, he said, the unemployment rate in Fort Bend is about 4 percent, the county’s gross domestic

product stands at just over $33 billion, which he said reflects its diverse industrial base. The county’s economic growth was second in the state last year, he said.

George said he and the other members of Commissioners Court have taken “significant steps” to attract even more new industry to the county and make it place that is more than a bedroom community for people working in other parts of the Houston region, but a place where people want to come to “live, work, and play.”

“But I have to admit that over 65 percent of our workforce drive to Houston for employment,” he said. “We want to change that tra -

jectory and attract various industries and job opportunities right here in Fort Bend County.”

Those efforts include improving the county’s infrastructure, including drainage, mobility and broadband access, he said, adding that he and the court are working to ensure that all the county’s residents, including in its most rural areas, will soon have access to broadband Internet.

George mobility was the county’s “number one priority,” since it is a linchpin of maintaining Fort Bend’s quality of life. (Later that

Fort Bend County Judge KP George gives the ‘State of the County’ address at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land last week. Photo by Ken Fountain

day, county commissioners approved the calling of a $713 million mobility and parks bond election, the largest in the county’s history, in November.)

Among the recent initiatives George touted were efforts to address a shortage of teachers in Fort Bend schools and a partnership with several local nonprofit organizations to create a multi-phase effort to serve the county’s growing homeless population. In recognition of the county’s diverse population, Geoge said, his administration has been active in organizing several new celebrations of that diversity.

“As we celebrate Fort

Investigators learned that the decedent, Fojtik, and the suspect, Horn, knew each other and that the two were previously involved in a disagreement. It is believed that this disagreement is what led to Fojtik being shot to death by Horn, according to the release. The nature of the disagreement was not disclosed.

Horn was arrested on August 5. He is being held at

Bend County’s remarkable achievements and economic growth, it is essential that we recognize that success does not come without its own challenges,” George said. “Our county faces issues that demand our attention and compassion.”

He brought to the stage Brandon Baca, CEO of Stafford-based Attack Poverty, one of the nonprofits involved in the new effort to address homelessness in the county. He discussed the coalition’s recent purchase of a former church property outside Richmond which is planned to serve as a new multipurpose center serving the homeless population.

Other officials George introduced to offer their own perspectives on the county’s current status and future

the Fort Bend County Jail without bond. Dubec also was arrested on August

5. He is being held at the Fort Bend County Jail on a $200,000 bond.

This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information on the death of Fojtik is urged to contact the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 281-341-4665, option

1. People who have any information on this investigation, or any unsolved

were Carlos Guzman, the county’s first economic development director; county engineer J. Stacey Slawinski; District Attorney Brian Middleton; and emergency management director Greg Babst.

“Fort Bend County has been a beacon of hope, growth, opportunity, and prosperity,” Geroge said in his concluding remarks. “And we are committed to ensuring that these pillars remain steadfast in the years to come.”

“Each one of us plays a crucial role in ensuring a thriving, inclusive, and incredible Fort Bend County. In short, our goal is to continue to make Fort Bend County a better place for us, our children, and generations to come.”

felony in Fort Bend County, please consider calling the Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-8477. Your identity will remain anonymous.

“This senseless tragedy is truly disheartening, knowing that nobody deserves to experience anything like this,” Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan said in the release. “We will not rest until all parties involved are held accountable for their actions.”

Sugar Land: Overcrowding at animal shelter might cause it to close soon

Staff Reports

The city of Sugar Land’s animal shelter has exceeded capacity, which may soon prevent the facility from accepting more pets. Should the situation continue, the city will be forced to close the shelter for any new animals, according to a news release.

The shelter is currently housing 53 dogs and 73 cats. The building was designed to accommodate 31 dogs and 52 cats.

“We need the public’s help to foster and adopt one of the many animals that we have available,” Jennifer Brown, special projects director, said

in the release. “We have animals in every space we have available. We are using all available bangers which are the mobile enclosures that we use in rooms, hallways and the lobby. We have suspended trapping operations, and our animal services officers will only be picking up sick or injured animals on calls in the field.”

Shelter staff have worked with non-profit pet agencies, volunteer organizations and other shelters in the region, state and country, but the continuous growth of pets dropped off at the shelter, released throughout the city or running wild creates insurmountable challenges.

EpiCenter to host open house on Aug. 19

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Fort Bend County EpiCenter, the long-touted multipurpose center in Rosenberg, will host its public grand opening on Saturday, August 19.

The 230,000-square-foot facility will be open to the public from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Attendees will be able to go on tours of the facility, which is owned by Fort Bend County and managed by the for-profit The Sports Facilities Companies. The facility will host special events (including next year’s Fort Bend ISD graduation ceremonies0, sports, and entertainment offerings.

The approximately $120 million venue has not been without controversy. When Fort Bend Commissioners Court in 2022 approved spending up to $26.78 million on the facility’s operating expenses during its first years of existence, Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers, long known as a deficit hawk, raised concerns, according to previous coverage in the Fort Bend Star.

In recent months, the facility’s management has

announced a string of partnerships with sports and entertainment promoters that it says will put the facility on firm financial footing going forward.

Under the agreement for the venue, the county will lease the property to Stonehenge Properties, the private developer that constructed the center and leases the building back to the county. The county will retain ownership of the land and will own the building when its debt is paid.

The facility sits on a 51.75-acre site at 28505 Southwest Freeway at State Highway 36 in Rosenberg, near the site of the county fairgrounds.

One of the first major events at the Epicenter will be the inaugural “Fort Bend County Festival of One,” a free community event hosted by County Judge KP George and the Expose Excellence Youth Foundation, headed by District Attorney Brian Middleton. The festival will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

“The Festival of One embraces the slogan ‘Better Together,’ emphasizing the unity and strength of Fort Bend County,” accord-

ing to a news release from George’s office.

“The Fort Bend County Festival of One offers an immersive and diverse experience for families and individuals, live entertainment, face painting, bounce houses, cultural henna hand-painting, a youth talent show, and a gaming truck. Additionally, attendees can explore various vendors, including Fort Bend County departments, non-profits, and small businesses. In addition to the festivities, the event provides essential services such as back-toschool immunizations, eye exams, haircuts, and braiding services, ensuring the community is well-prepared for the upcoming school year,” according to the release.

“At its core, the Festival of One empowers Fort Bend County’s youth through performing and visual arts and volunteer opportunities, fostering community involvement and responsibility. It unites residents through culturally diverse entertainment, food, and fun-filled activities, celebrating the collective heritage that enriches our community,” according to the release.

Work will continue to explore partnerships intended to leverage and coordinate regional resources, utilize a broader spectrum of expertise and better meet the needs of Sugar Land’s pet population.

For more information about Sugar Land Animal Services, visit sugarlandtx.gov/animalservices.

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax

hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2023 on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. at the SI Environmental LLC, 6420 Reading Rd, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners. Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

The

The FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 66 will proposed tax rate for the tax year 2023 on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at Environmental LLC, 6420 Reading Rd, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Your individual greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database access information regarding your property taxes, including information about scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

FOR the proposal: Louis Imbrogno, Wade Purdy, Micah Pogue

AGAINST the proposal: Alex Hemleb, Robert Woodhouse

PRESENT and not voting: None

FOR the proposal: Louis Imbrogno, Wade Purdy, Micah Pogue

ABSENT: None

AGAINST the proposal: Alex Hemleb, Robert Woodhouse

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

PRESENT and not voting: None

ABSENT: None

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Last Year

Total tax rate (per $100 of value) $1.09000 /$100 Adopted

Difference in rates per $100 of value $-0.12000

Percentage increase/decrease in rates(+/-)

Average appraised residence homestead value $204,975.00

General homestead exemptions available $0.00 (excluding 65 years of age or older or disabled person’s exemptions)

Average residence homestead taxable value $204,975.00

Tax on average residence homestead $2,234.23

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) and percentage of increase (+/-)

RIGHT TO ELECTION TO REDUCE TAX RATE

If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than 8 percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Water Code.

NOTICE OF TAXPAYERS’ RIGHT TO ELECTION TO REDUCE

If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax Water Code.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

Should you have any questions concerning this notice, please contact the tax office at 281-482-0216.

The

Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

Sugar Land stumbles in series against El Paso

By Landan Kuhlmann

Coming off a loss in their previous series against Tacoma, the Sugar Land Space Cowboys were looking to get themselves back on track. But after a strong start, the Space Cowboys fizzled out and wound up dropping their second consecutive series.

The Space Cowboys won the first two games of their series last week against the El Paso Chihuahuas, but dropped the final four games en route to extending their series winless streak to three in a row. Sugar Land now sits with a 47-67 overall record this season - which has them in fourth place in the Pacific Coast League’s East division – including a 14-25 mark so far in the second half of the season.

It was a strong offensive week out in El Paso for the Space Cowboys, who scored 52 runs over the course of the six-game series. Outfielder Pedro Leon had an outstanding week by hitting .348 (8 for 23) with a staggering 1.403 OPS in six-games, highlighted by a three-homer game in the Space Cowboys’ 18-11 loss on Aug. 12. In total, the Astros No. 13 overall prospect homered five times in the series while having a team-leading 13 RBIs in the series. First baseman/ outfielder J.J. Matijevic was also on fire last week hitting .435 (10 for 23) with six doubles and a 1.248 OPS over the course of the series, reaching base in 16 of his 29 plate appearances while also driving in five runs of his own.

Shortstop Shay Whitcomb also enjoyed a strong week at the plate by going 8 for 26 with a .956 OPS while hitting two home runs and driving in seven runs, while Bligh Madris went 5 for 12 with a home run and reached base in eight of his 15 plate appearances. Rounding out the strong offensive week

was David Hensley – who went 6 for 13 with three extra-base hits and five RBIs while posting a 1.269 OPS prior to being recalled to the Astros – and Corey Julks, who went 6 for 21 with five doubles and reached in 11 of 26 plate apperances.

On the mound, Astros’ No. 7 prospect Colton Gordon picked up a win in his first Triple-A start with five shutout innings in the

Space Cowboys’ 18-1 victory on Aug. 8, allowing just three hits while striking out three and walking two. Ronel Blanco followed that up by hurling seven shutout innings with eight strikeouts while surrendering just two hits of his own in Sugar Land’s 8-1 win.

Jimmy Endersby was the star reliever of the week, throwing 2.1 shutout innings over two outings with three

strikeouts and two walks.

The Space Cowboys were set to begin their only twoweek homestand of the season at Constellation Field on Tuesday, with a series against the Round Rock Express from Aug. 1520 and the Reno Aces from Aug. 22-27.

Upcoming promotions

As part of the lone twoweek homestand of the year

in August, it’s Paint Your Own Bobblehead Night on

Aug. 19 for Art Appreciation

Night plus a special gameworn jersey designed by local art students. Aug. 20 follows with an “Astros’ Affiliates Tumbler” giveaway. There will be a Space Cowboys/ University of Houston Corey Julks jersey giveaway on University of Houston night

Aug. 25, and additionally it’s the second Brewfest of

the season. Faith & Family Night is on Saturday, August 26 with a postgame concert by Sidewalk Prophets, and it is Orion’s Birthday is on Aug. 27 with an Orion jersey giveaway.

On the other side of Labor Day, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Awareness Night comes up on Sept. 7 followed by the Space Cowboys Spooktacular and Colon Cancer Awareness Night on Sept. 8.

Ronel Blanco threw seven shutout innings for the Sugar Land Space Cowboys in their Aug. 9 win over the El Paso Chihuahuas, one of just two victories for Sugar Land in last week’s series. Photo from Twitter

Lynn Ashby Columnist

By Lynn Ashby ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET

THE PHONE – “Hello,” I say. There is a noise, then some static. “Hi Uncle,” says a voice. “I’ve been in an accident.” More static. “I need your help.” I ask, “Who is this?” The voice replies, “Michael. Michael Ashby.” Odd. In my rather checkered family tree –some branches suitable for a hangman’s rope – we have had an Americus, Milroy and Nimrod. “The last Michael Ashby died in 1787.” Silence, then “(Blank) YOU!” Click. Poor guy. He must spend hours making phone calls to someone

Gullible’s Travels

who may have a relative named Michael and falls for this rather threadbare scam. Although I do wonder how he got my name and phone number.

The scam goes like this, in case you have a Michael in the family who is prone to accidents. The phone rings and there is static in the background so it’s hard to recognize the caller’s voice. A common first name is used and he (it’s always a he) says he was hurt in an accident or robbed or whatever and needs you to send money quickly –like a hundred or several hundred dollars. Send it to some obscure but officially sounding bank. He’ll pay you back. It must work because people still try to pull it off.

And it’s not just the unsophisticated who fall victim. A fellow I have known for years got a garbled call from his “nephew” Joe (or something, it was hard to detect what with the static), who said he was in London and got mugged. The muggers took his wallet, credit cards and passport. He said he was too embarrassed to call his folks but knew he

could count on his uncle for help. My friend did have a nephew who had a troublesome career, so he wired $1,200 to London – or maybe not. My friend waited for the repayment, finally he asked his actual nephew about his mugging. Never happened. It was a total rip-off. My friend is not an unsophisticated hick. He had a doctorate in physics from Rice. Maybe he spent too much time in the lab.

There have always been scams, frauds and stolen presidential elections, but emails, web sites and cryptowhatever are causing a surge in the scamalot biz. Almost every morning I go to my computer and have to clean out attempts to get hold of my credit card number, passwords or number of my Swiss bank account. “We’re letting you know that we’ve detected some unusual activity on your debit card. For your protection, we need you to review this activity immediately.”

Here’s another: “Chase debit or ATM card ending in: xxxx. We have recently changed our terms of service. Due to our new terms, we will be closing all email addresses using

713-433-6421

14700 Almeda Rd Houston, TX 77053

www.HoustonHumane.org

Hi I’m Sockies!

SOCKIES

I was found as a stray. I am very shy around new people and will need a bit of time to warm up to you, but once I do I would love lots of pets!

Sockies is a sweet natured cat. She is very friendly and more of a companion, laid back, chill type cat.

She likes treats, pets and nap time. She will be happy in a quiet environment where she is the only pet. ADOPT SOCKIES!

our old services. If you wish to continue using our email services please click on ACCEPT.” Card number ending in xxxx? They don’t even have my card number?

Another massive fraud is credit card theft. I have been hacked so often I have an unlisted card number. I continually find purchases from Chicago or San Diego, usually small amounts like $20 at a tattoo parlor or strip club. Why not charge a 60-inch TV or a cruise to Odesa, Ukraine? I am told the thief starts small to see if the fake charges work, then goes higher to buy a Tesla or a latte at Starbucks.

Disable Cable keeps telling me they are disconnecting my account unless I “immediately” fix my problem by giving them my etc. etc. I know it’s not my cable company -- these scammers are too efficient. The Bank of America warns me that my account has been frozen due to several hot checks. I need to send them funds to cover my overdraft. That would be important except that I don’t have an account at Bank of America and never have. Same for the

Left Bank of the Bayou. “Your USAA account is unsecured.”

Probably because I don’t have a USAA account. I somehow got on the list of FrontPorch which is a neighborhood site that is filled with pleas to find lost kittens and used shoes for sale. And then: “I have been laid off from my job as a chicken plucker at Feathers & Beaks and desperately need funds to pay for my meth habit.” Or: “I am a single mom with only seven kids and five dogs. Please help me by sending cash – only cash – to…”

Besides emails, do you ever get a phone call from “The Police Benevolent Charity” asking for a donation? The calls are recordings, but try to sound like a real cop. “Hi, you are harder to reach than the top shelf in my kitchen. This is Officer Jones etc.” Beware of impersonators. These are scammers who impersonate IRS agents. “We have you down with the Social Security Number 123-45-678 and want to verify if that’s correct.” You reply, “There must be some mistake. My number is…” Tilt!

A bit of caution. You can buy Republic of Texas pa-

per bills, but don’t buy any Republic of Texas coins or postage stamps. They were never made. Same for any Roman coin marked “300 BC.” Invest in bitcoins only if you like to lose money. If you think you are donating to Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, it’s a bait-and-switch operation. Your money has been diverted. In the first half of 2023 alone, over $40 million of “campaign funds” were spent on lawyers for Trump and his co-defendants.

Many scams take advantage of the victim’s own greed. “I’ll cut you in on this endrun around the law.” The most notorious scam has been the Nigerian prince whose millions are frozen in a bank in London or New York or the Cayman Islands. He needs you to withdraw the funds and will pay you handsomely for your subterfuge. All you need to do is send him, say, a thousand dollars to show your willingness to play along.

Oops. Gotta go. My nephew Nimrod just called. He’s been mugged.

Ashby scams at ashby2@ comcast.net

Houston

U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital the No. 5 hospital in Houston and No. 9 hospital in Texas. The rankings are based on scores in patient care, patient safety, outcomes, nursing, advanced technology and reputation.

“It is an honor to be recognized on this prestigious list,” Chris Siebenaler, the hospital’s executive vice president and CEO, said in a news release. “This recognition honors the health care professionals who commit to not only leading medicine but to also delivering unparalleled safety, quality and service.”

Sugar

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was recognized for high-performing specialties in gastroenterology & GI surgery, geriatrics and orthopedics. The hospital was also acknowledged for these high-performing procedures and conditions: acute kidney failure; colon cancer surgery; diabetes; heart attack; heart failure; knee replacement; leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma; pneumonia; prostate cancer surgery and stroke.

At the system level, Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center was again named to U.S. News & World Report’s Honor Roll and named the No. 1 hospital in Texas for the 12th year in

a row, only this year tied with UT Southwestern in Dallas. U.S. News has ranked Houston Methodist Hospital in at least one specialty for the past 31 years and has placed it on its Honor Roll for the seventh time.

This year, Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked in 10 specialties. It had nine specialties ranked in the Top 20, with two of those nine ranked in the Top 5.

For the full list of rankings, visit health.usnews. com/best-hospitals. To learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the services offered in Fort Bend County, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland.

Fort Bend County Libraries’ “Living Sustainably Club” will meet online on Monday, August 21, from 6-7 p.m. to discuss “Design for Abundance: Permaculture Basics.”

FBCL’s Living Sustainably Club programs are livestreamed through Webex so that participants can participate virtually and interact with others in real time. This monthly club is an online one by choice -- a conscious effort to minimize the carbon footprint by reducing the use of fossil fuels.

For the August meeting, Suzanne Bonefas, from the Association for Regenerative Culture, will share the basic elements and ethics of permaculture, a system for developing agricultural ecosystems that are intended to be sustainable and selfsufficient.

An approach to agricul-

ture that adopts elements seen in natural ecosystems, permaculture explores the relationship that exists between humans, plants, animals, and the Earth. Learn how the concepts of permaculture can be applied to various aspects of life, as well as to growing food.

Bonefas completed her permaculture design certification in 2020. She is a co-founder of the Southeast Texas Permaculture Network and a board member of the Association for Regenerative Culture. After many years in the higher education sector and nonprofit board leadership, she now works with the Permaculture Network of North America to design and implement networks to support the permaculture community both locally and globally.

Free and open to the public, the Living Sustainably Club meets online on the third Monday of every

month. Each month, different topics will focus on discussing, educating, and demonstrating how everyone -- from individuals to businesses -- can live sustainably within a budget!

Registration is required; a link to the Webex teleconference will be emailed to all who register. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” and find the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling FBCL’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).

Master Gardeners to host talk on small trees on Aug. 18

Staff Reports

On August 18, Fort Bend County Master Gardeners will host an online talk about small ornamental trees that residents can plant both in their front and back yards when space is an issue in an

“Trees for Small Landscapes” is the sixth class in “Landscape Success”, an

eight-class online program. The 90-minute class will begin at 2 p.m. and is free, but registration is required.

The program is offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Fort Bend County, along with the Master Gardeners. The last two classes in the program will be “Fall is for Planting” on September 15 and “Winter Protection” on November. 17.

Visit fbmg.org/landscapesuccess-2023 for more information and to register. For questions and information, contact Brandy Rader at 281-342-3034 or brandy. rader@ag.tamu.edu.

FORTBENDSTAR. COM

Career and Technical Education

Annual Public Notification of Nondiscrimination

SAMPLE FORM

(Insert LEA Name) offers career and technical education programs in (types of programs offered). Admission to these programs is based on (admission standards).

It is the policy of (Insert LEA Name) not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. It is the policy of (Insert LEA Name) not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its employment practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

(Insert LEA Name) will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs. For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator at (email address of Title IX Coordinator), (phone number of Title IX Coordinator), and/or the Section 504 Coordinator at (email address of Section 504 Coordinator), (phone number of Section 504 Coordinator).

Methods of Administration (MOA) Division of Review and Support Office of Special Populations Monitoring (512) 463-9414

Career and Technical Education

Annual Public Notification of Nondiscrimination

FORMULARIO DE MUESTRA

(Noti cación Publica de No Discriminación en Programas de Educación Técnica y Vocacional) (Insertar nombre del distrito escolar) ofrece programas de educación técnica y vocacional en (tipo de programa). La admisión a estos programas se basa en (criterio para admisión).

Es norma de (insertar nombre del distrito escolar) no discriminar en sus programas, servicios o actividades vocacionales y brinda igualdad de acceso a los Boy Scouts y otros grupos juveniles designados por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo o impedimento, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación de 1972, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda.

Es norma de (insertar nombre del distrito escolar) no discriminar en sus procedimientos de empleo por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, impedimento o edad, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación, de 1972, la ley de Discriminación por Edad, de 1975, según enmienda; y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda.

(Insertar nombre del distrito escolar) tomará las medidas necesarias para asegurar que la falta de habilidad en el uso del inglés no sea un obstáculo para la admisión y participación en todos los programas educativos y vocacionales. Para información sobre sus derechos o procedimientos de quejas, comuníquese con el Coordinador del Título IX en (dirección), (dirección de correo electrónico), (número de teléfono), y/o el Coordinador de la Sección 504 en (dirección), (dirección de correo electrónico), (número de teléfono).

U.S. News & World Report recently ranked Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital the No. 5 hospital in Houston and No. 9 hospital in Texas.

ONGOING HONORING MR. MACARIO GARCIA, ONE OF WORLD WAR II MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

On Sunday, August 27, 2023, from 2-4 pm, American Legion Post 942, 311 Ulrich, Sugar Land, will host a reception honoring Mr. Macario Garcia, one of World War II Medal of Honor Recipients. Mr. Garcia passed away several years ago, but we chose to honor his life and service to this country.

The public and all veterans, active or inactive are invited to attend.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE GRAND PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCH

In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, GPBC offers ESL classes on Tuesday nights 6-8:30 from August 22, 2023 through May 21, 2024. We are located at 12000 FM 1464 Richmond. Our students 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

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. The next Bus Trip is on April 26, 2023, to Painted Churches. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281-785-7372 for more information.

FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES’

ONLINE BOOK CLUB

Online meetings on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Free and open to the public. Registration is required; to register online www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” find the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling George Memorial Library (281-342-4455).

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, 469-850-2424, 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:pm4: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: 281-2047716 vincer.music@gmail.com

FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS FOR 2022-2023 YEAR

To join, the membership application can be accessed at https://www.fbjsl.org/join/how-to-become-a-member/. FBJSL will also be hosting multiple virtual and in-person recruitment events over the summer where potential new members can learn more about the League. Information regarding attending these events is available at www.fbjsl.org or on the FBJSL Facebook page at www. facebook.com/FortBendJuniorServiceLeague/.

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 281240-8181 or visit our website www.ftbendliteracy.org

JAM WITH SAM

Join Sam Grice Tuesday evenings at 6:30 for a casual evening of music. We play a variety of music including bluegrass, country, gospel and some western. We request acoustic instruments only please. We welcome both participants and music lovers who enjoy listening to good live music. There’s no charge and we welcome beginners and gladly offer gentle assistance. We meet at First Presbyterian Church, 502 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land. Please call Sam at 832-428-3165 for further information.

THURSDAY MORNING

BIBLE STUDY FOR MEN

Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Road offers a Thursday Morning Bible Study For Men. This group is ongoing and uses a variety of studies throughout the year. The breakfast, coffee and donuts are free. Join us any time! Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 am in Wesley Hall. Call the church office at 281-491-6041 or Mike Schofield at 281-217-5799 for more information.

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 281240-3195

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

Review: Clean Eatz offers healthy food options in a unique concept

By Ken Fountain

Last week, Clean Eatz opened in the Town Center shopping center in Sugar Land. I’m not sure that “restaurant” exactly describes what the place is. Perhaps “dining concept” does the trick.

According to the franchise’s website, “Clean Eatz is more than a restaurant that offers healthy food. We are heart-driven to change livez through clean, balanced food, thought-provoking education and motivational support that inspires results. We know personal wellness is not one-size-fits-all, so we craft nutritional products and fitness opportunities that meet the needs of every type of lifestyle.”

That’s quite a mission statement for a simple place to eat. I’ve known of these types of establishments, of course, as they’ve become something of a trend with today’s fast-paced lifestyle. But I had not really availed myself of any of them before. However, a family member has become interested in sticking more to healthy food options of late, so this past weekend we gave it a try.

The same website gives a listing of the things Clean Eatz offers. Besides the dinein portion, the establishment features “grab-and-go meals,” weekly meal plans, and a catering service.

Talking to the proprietors, Don and Mary, I learned that the restaurant was started by bodybuilding enthusiasts who wanted to open a restaurant that offered wellbalanced meals to meet the requirements not just of that activity but any lifestyle.

The dine-in options are plentiful and varied. They iinclude melt sandwiches (called “meltz” to match the branding), flatbread sandwiches, “snakz” (appetizers), “wrapz,” burgers, and smoothies. There are also “build your own bowl” options. Ingredients include chicken, beef, vegetarian, shrimp, salmon, and even bison meat.

The cafe is brightly lit and colorful. You order your food at the counter and it’s brought out to you in the smallish dining room. One quibble: When I go out to eat, more often than not I have water to drink. At Clean Eatz, I was given perhaps the smallest cup possible. I know restaurants aren’t al-

Clean Eatz

Address:3434 Highway 6,

Sugar Land

Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

Entrée prices:

$8.99-$12.99

Kid-friendly: Yes

Alcohol: No

Senior discount: No Healthy options: Yes

ways fond of providing large cups if you’re not buying a drink, but this seemed a bit too punitive.

Otherwise, I found the service excellent. The proprietors were obviously very proud of their new franchise and eager to talk about the concept. In fact, they even made sure to ask if the music (pop country) was too

loud (it was fine). They told us that the Sugar Land location is the franchise’s fourth in Texas and the first in the Houston area.

Feeling particularly hungry, I ordered off the “Makin’ Muscle” part of the menu, selecting, of course, “The Arnold,” a shredded beef sandwich with brown rice, green peppers, mush-

COMPLEX NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS Treated in Sugar Land

rooms and more, with a side of macaroni and cheese. It was excellent, with a tangy sauce that hit just the right note. My dining companion likewise enjoyed the

One expansive wall contains large refrigerators for the grab-and-go meals. There’s a huge selection, including items that weren’t on the dine-in menu. The meals

are prepared fresh daily on site, and I was told that the selections are changed weekly. As mentioned, the establishment also helps patrons create meal plans and does catering.

If you’re looking for new dining options, especially ones that put an emphasis on healthy food, I recommend giving Clean Eatz a try.

At Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land, our physicians collaborate across specialties to diagnose and treat common to complex neurological disorders. With innovative and advanced treatment options, we provide personalized comprehensive care — close to home. Our team of physicians treats a variety of conditions, including:

• Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders

• Aneurysms

Brain tumors

• Multiple sclerosis

• Neuropathy

SCAN HERE

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

• Parkinson’s disease and tremors

• Sleep disorders

Spinal disorders

• Stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA)

To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.274.7979

281-690-4200

“The Arnold” at Clean Eatz, a new dining concept in Sugar Land, was both

Photo by Ken Fountain