The 12-27-23 Edition of The Fort Bend Star by The Heights Leader, Fort Bend Star and The Greensheet

2023

READERS’ CHOICE

Fresh & Savory Deli & Grill is one of the best in Stafford- Page 3

281.690.4200 WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 27, 2023

Sugar Land man receives 57 years for sexual abuse of children Staff Reports On December 18, a Fort Bend County jury convicted Jose Florentino Ortiz, 51 of one charge of continuous sexual Abuse of a young child and two charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child and stemming from the 1990’s and sentenced him 25 years, 16 years, and 16 years, respectively.

Jose Florentino Ortiz, 51, of Sugar Land, was sentenced to 57 years in prison for continuous abuse of a young child and aggravated sexual assault of a young child. Courtesy Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office

268th District Court Judge Steve Rogers ordered the sentences to run consecutively, requiring the Sugar Land man to serve 57 years in prison. Ortiz will not be eligible for parole until he serves at least 49 years, according to a news release from the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. Evidence presented by child abuse prosecutors Alycia Curtis and Craig Priesmeyer revealed that Ortiz began sexually abusing a girl in the mid-1990’s when she was approximately five years old. He continued his abuse against her for over a decade before moving on to the girl’s younger sister and a third female family member several years later. The jury heard testimony that during the Sheriff’s Office investigation in the summer of 2020, Ortiz confessed to molesting two of the three victims and described himself as having a “pedophile mind.” “The scope of sexual abuse in this case, against three separate victims, was horrific,” Curtis said in the release. “But the girls showed incredible bravery coming forward and facing their abuser in court.” When Ortiz testified at trial, he disavowed his confession and accused the victims of making up and exaggerating the sexual abuse, according to the release. “This is what you get when we catch you abusing children in this county,” District Attorney Brian Middleton said. “I am proud of my prosecutors, the judge, and the jury for working hard to ensure that this man can never harm another child in his lifetime. I am especially proud of the young survivors who held the defendant accountable. We should all be so brave.” The Sheriff’s Office’s Sgt. Michael Alexander led the investigation, which included the assistance of other agencies including Harris Health Systems and Child Advocates of Fort Bend. Continuous Sexual Abuse of Young Child is a first-degree felony punishable by 25 to 99 years or life in prison with no parole eligibility. Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is also a first-degree felony punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison. Both offenses require lifetime registration as a sex offender.

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Fort Bend economic development council could dissolve next year By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

An organization that for nearly four decades has worked to promote economic development in Fort Bend County could soon be going out of business. The executive committee of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, formed in 1986, voted in early November to present an outside consulting firm’s recommendation to disband the organization, at its next full board meeting, scheduled for January 10. TIP Strategies, the Austinbased consulting firm, was

The Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, whose offices are in the Fluor complex in Sugar Land, might dissolve next year depending on a January vote by its board. File photo by Ken Fountain

engaged by both the Council and Fort Bend County on a split-cost basis to conduct a study on how the county could best promote economic development in the wake of the Commissioners Court’s 2022 decision to the county’s own economic development department. “For nearly four decades, the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council has supported private-sector development and publicsector initiatives that have set the stage for its current success and the future of Fort Bend County. In early 2022, Fort Bend County created an economic development

department, and since that time, our teams have been working to redefine roles and expectations,” the organization said in statement that went out to membership after the executive committee’s decision. “Recently, an economic development consultant engaged by the County met with our Executive Committee and introduced two pathways for the future of our organization: (1) to reorient the FBEDC, change the board composition and staff, or (2) create an entirely

SEE DEVELOPMENT PAGE 2

New mother’s milk collection site opens at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Community Reports Hailey Stanford, a registered nurse, has a sticker on her water bottle that reads “Milk Maker,” and she says she’s proud of that sticker. Stanford, a mother of two, has three freezers at home to store her excess breastmilk. The mother/ baby nurse at Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land recently became the first mother to donate breastmilk at Fort Bend County’s newest milk collection site. Her donation of 1,740 ounces nearly filled the donation refrigerator, according to a news release from the hospital. “When I first heard our Childbirth Center was going to become a milk collection site, I had two words for my boss: take it,” Stanford said. She breastfed her oldest son for 14 months and was excited to do the same for her second-born. He was born with a complete bilateral cleft lip and palate, which left him with the inability to breastfeed. “I had to pump to feed my child but when you pump exclusively, your body doesn’t respond to your baby’s needs, so there was an immediate oversupply. I knew I wanted to donate my milk to help other mothers and I’m honored to be the first donor at our hospital,” Stanford said. “I understand how disappointing it can be to want to breastfeed your baby and not be able to, so I wanted to help ease some of that stress.” The demand for human donor milk in hospital neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) continues to rise, and now lactating mothers can drop off their breastmilk donations at Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land. The collection site will be serviced by the Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin. Women who are currently breastfeeding infants under 1 year old are eligible to be screened at no charge to become human milk donors. The collection site at Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land is the only Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin collection site in Fort Bend County. “We are thrilled and proud to offer this service to moms and babies in our

Hailey Stanford, a registered nurse, donates breastmilk at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Courtesy Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

community,” said Theresa Walters, MSN, RN, RNCNIC, NICU Manager at the center. “We are dedicated to the health and growth of our smallest community members, and this is another impactful way we can meet their needs.” One of the largest suppliers of donor human milk to hospitals across Texas and

in 22 states, the Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin fills prescriptions written by physicians for the most fragile babies who need the life-giving and sustaining nutrition of donor human milk to thrive. Although any woman can donate her breast milk regardless of where she lives, the new milk collection site

at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will make it easier for donors in Fort Bend County and surrounding areas to donate this scarce resource that has life-saving impact. “Our reputation for providing safe, nutritionally-analyzed, and labeled donor human milk to hospitals and outpatients has

led to tremendous growth in demand—a challenge and also a success,” said Kim Updegrove, executive director of the Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin. “By partnering with Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land we will raise our

SEE COLLECTION PAGE 2

THE STAR

PAGE 2 • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

COLLECTION FROM PAGE 1

DEVELOPMENT FROM PAGE 1

awareness with a vital audience – breastfeeding women who are uniquely qualified to help save the lives of premature and critically ill babies.” Nonprofit milk banks like Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin ensure donor human milk is safe and available to the infants who need it most. The pasteurized breast milk dispensed is specifically processed to meet the specific needs of fragile and sick babies. The donor human milk also goes to infants with families in crisis such as maternal emergencies, formula shortages, and the like. Founded in 1999 by two Austin neonatologists, Dr. Sonny Rivera and Dr. George Sharpe, the Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin serves babies with the greatest medical needs, regardless of families’ ability to pay. “My second son is only six months old and I’m hoping I can continue producing milk for at least another six months – which means I’ll be donating more milk,” Stanford said. “There is no way he could consume all my supply. Knowing I’m helping other families in their time of need is why I come to work every day – it’s why I pump three

new organization, board and staff intended to carry out a new mission,” according to the statement obtained by the Fort Bend Star. After receiving the report from TIP Strategies, the consulting firm, the board decided to cancel the remaining board meetings for 2023. At the January 10 meeting, the committee will present the firm’s final recommendations “concerning the five-year strategic plan recommendations and recommended organizational realignment,” according to the statement. “Based on the current options presented and discussion with the Executive Committee, absent a change, the Chairman will present a recommendation for dissolution of the FBEDC effective on or before June 30, 2024,” the statement reads. The TIP Strategies report is still in draft form but will likely be shared in a public forum shortly, Amanda Hansen, a communications consultant for the council, told the Fort Bend Star. The council’s dissolution would mark a significant milepost for Fort Bend County, which has grown

A look at RN Hailey Stanford’s donation, totaling 1,740 ounces, at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

times every day while I’m at work.” The Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin had 1,094 approved milk donors in 2022. That year, 869,000 ounces were pasteurized and dispensed to 181 hospitals, two dispensaries and 550 outpatients. The goal for 2023 is 1,500 approved milk donors. Lactating women in Fort Bend County and surrounding areas who

are interested in donating their breast milk for the benefit of premature, ill, and medically fragile infants may call 877-8136455 to begin the screening process. Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land, a level III NICU, is located at 16655 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land. Learn more about Mothers’ Milk Bank Austin at milkbank.org.

tremendously, both in population and economic base, since it was created in the mid-1980s. According to the U.S. Census, the county’s population in 1980 was 130,846, growing to 225,846 in 1990. In the 2020 Census, the county’s population was 822,779, and there are now approximately 900,000 residents. Officials estimate the county will more than double in population to 2 million residents by 2040. In the four decades since the council was formed, the county’s economic base, which had long been primarily agricultural with some manufacturing and officeoriented industries, has also broadened tremendously. “The Fort Bend Economic Development Council is a public-private partnership established in 1986 to promote vitality and to ensure quality development in Fort Bend County,” according to its website. The council and its partners “are dedicated to business development and retention, corporate relocation and expansion, innovation and technology, and entrepreneurship in Fort Bend County, Texas,” according to the site. The council relies on membership dues and an annual stipend from the county of

approximately $300,000, according to Carlos Guzman, who was appointed in October 2022 to be the county’s first economic development director. Its membership included business and community organizations, public sector leadership, and private industry particularly, those in the development community, according to the website. Guzman said that it’s no longer unusual for Texas counties to have their own economic development departments. The very large counties of Harris, Dallas, and Travis each have one, as does the much smaller Williamson County in central Texas, he said. With the tremendous growth, both in population and economic base, that Fort Bend County has seen in recent years and expects to continue, it was decided by Commissioners Court that a more concerted approach to economic development from the governmental sector was required, he said. Guzman said if the council’s board votes next month to dissolve the group, the county would work to find ways to incorporate its resources into the county’s economic development efforts.

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METHODIST CHURCH

EPISCOPAL

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602

A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Rev. Dr. Daniel Irving, Senior Pastor Sunday Schedule 9:30 am Blended Worship 9:30 am Sunday School for all ages 11:00 am Traditional & Contemporary Worship www.christchurchsl.org

605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477 SUNDAY: 10:30 am Worship Holy Eucharist www.allsaints-stafford.org

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge Rd. -Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reverend Dr. Fred Seay, Pastor Sunday Worship In Person 11:00 am / Nursery Available Worship Online on YouTube www.fpcsl.org

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CHURCH OF CHRIST

STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 Stephen Higley, Preacher Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am Sunday Worship 10:30 am Wednesday 7:00 pm www.staffordcoc.com Scripture of the week

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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 • PAGE 3

Fresh & Savory Deli & Grill is one of the best little lunch spots in Stafford Janet Sue

To discover this Fort Bend Hidden Gem,

Ryan Lee

go to: freshandsavory.com 12999 Murphy Road Suite B-4 Suite E Stafford, TX 77477

Art and Culture Columnists

(281) 879-1203

By Ryan Lee Reid and Janet Sue Reid

Hours of Operation:

resh & Savory Deli & Grill is probably one of the best places in Fort Bend to get a homemade, healthy, and delicious lunch in less than half an hour. We discovered it while craving a classic chicken salad sandwich akin to the kind you find in a classic New York deli where sandwiches are an elevated art form and everyone knows your name. While the world around Fresh & Savory has changed over the nearly 40 years it has been open, the fresh food, family like service, and loyal customer base has remained consistent.

Adolfo Garcia, at the helm of the new management since 2019, has made it his mission to make sure the next 40 years are more of the same. “I promised Jenny and Earl, the previous owners, that I would keep their legacy going,” he says, referring to the Askeroglus, the couple who opened the restaurant in 1984. “The hours, location, people, and product will never change. It was born in Stafford and it will stay in Stafford.” Even the pictures of the food on the wall behind the register where you order are more than 30 years old, and the mission of getting customers in and out in 30

Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Chicken Salad with Almonds Recipe Courtesy of Fresh & Savory Deli & Grill. Recipe Card by Janet Sue Reid

minutes remains the same. Once when Adolfo attempted to make upgrades to the rapidly aging chairs, he faced a storm of backlash from loyal patrons who were worried about any additional changes to come. It’s the kind of fierce loyalty that only die-hard foodies demand of an old school restaurant. Adolfo is the perfect captain for this culinary ship. Adolfo started out as a regular customer of Fresh & Savory. Born in Louisiana into a family of artists, he has six brothers, seven sisters, 48 nieces and nephews, four familial generations of performers, and three generations of circus performers. He himself is a professional dancer and plays five instruments. Adolfo came to Fort Bend shortly after Hurricane Katrina to set up roots in a new city. “Fort Bend has been a blessing to me. The success here has been

because of the people,” he says adamantly. His philosophy is to treat the people around him, his employees and customers, like family. It’s how he was raised. When he was a kid his family of four, who were struggling financially themselves, would feed the homeless every week. Even today you can find Adolfo giving sandwiches and a seat in his establishment to those in need. His three employees are no different, which is why “the ladies” have been working at the restaurant for 15, 25, and 39 years respectively. We mention “ladies” because it’s a well-known joke that whenever you leave a tip at his restaurant Adolfo will ring a bell and exclaim in a very gregarious tone, “TIP FOR THE LADIES!!” He even chokes up as he describes how much all the customers and employees have meant to him over the years, beaming with

effusive exuberance. Adolfo’s mission may be one of service but it’s the food that brings patrons back time and time again. His take on Italian American-style cuisine is as unique as it is tasty, and the prices and portion sizes are affordable and generous. The biggest sellers are “Jenny’s Salad”, the chicken cutlet called “Earl’s Favorite”, and the muffuletta, of which Adolfo sells about 50 per day. Yes, those may in fact be some of his best sellers but there are many other fantastic offerings that we enjoyed. The chicken salad is wellbalanced and seasoned to perfection. It’s refreshing to have a chicken salad sandwich without an overzealous use of mayonnaise. The chicken cutlet is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, creating a wonderful juxtaposition for the taste buds. As far as the soups go, Adolfo he has 30

different recipes, and the ones we have tried have been fantastic. The consistency is right on the money, neither too thick or thin, and the flavor and aroma is a festival for the senses. Even though the soups, salads, and sandwiches are a good portion of the menu, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention their pastas as well. The linguini primavera pasta with grilled chicken is served with spinach, carrots, leeks, simmered in a creamy alfredo sauce, and garnished with parmesan cheese. The colors of the different ingredients taste just as good together as they look. It’s a rainbow on a plate. Now to dessert…drum roll please! Keeping true to the long-standing traditions of family restaurants, Adolfo’s wife, Mihn, is the baker as proudly displayed in an endearing sign for “Minh’s Bakery.”. All Fresh & Savory’s desserts are made in house. The pecan and lemon squares are little rectangular morsels of heaven, and gooey in all the right places. Their top seller, the chocolate cheesecake, has a silk creaminess with a nice graham cracker crust. The strawberry cheesecake is creamy and not too sweet

with a buttery graham cracker crust with a hint of saltiness to it. Beyond just the foot traffic to Fresh & Savory, Adolfo does a large amount of catering. Fresh & Savory caters to the Stafford Center, corporate clients, private clients, and even other catering companies. They are that good and consistent. He also works with some of the biggest chefs in Houston who have nothing but praise for Fresh & Savory’s deliciousness and customer service. So if you do find yourself hiring Fresh & Savory for your next big event or stop by for lunch in Stafford, remember one thing: TIP FOR THE LADIES!! If you would like to recommend a local hidden gem to be featured in the Fort Bend Star, please email: CulinaryCowgirl@ReidFeed. com Janet Sue Reid, “The Culinary Cowgirl”, and Ryan Lee Reid, “The Piano Cowboy”, 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.

Fresh & Savory Deli & Grill, operated by Adolfo Garcia, is a Stafford restaurant reminiscent of a classic New York deli where sandwiches are an elevated art form and everyone knows your name. Janet Sue Reid and Robert Roberts. Montage by Janet Sue Reid

THE STAR

PAGE 4 • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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EDITORIAL In one year and out the other Lynn Ashby Columnist

By Lynn Ashby ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET

hat a year it was. Our politicians worked together to hammer out a compromise to make a better America. Our president was honored by all and led a country free from division. Our troops were safe and our own world was at peace. Texas and Houston were devoid of any upsets and political disharmony. Of course that was the year 1790. The year 2023 was slightly different, particularly here in the Lone Star State. So, let’s take a look at these past 12 months and be glad they are in our rear-view mirror. First, however, some good news: 2023 is over. Gov. Greg Abbot jumped out of an air-

plane. Luckily, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick didn’t pack his parachute. Dickinson High School created a 28-foot mum for the school’s homecoming game. R’Bonney Gabriel, the first Filipina Texan (and a Missouri City native) to win Miss Texas USA and Miss USA, received a new title: Miss Universe. The Many Stars State: Gen. Eric M. Smith, commandant of the U.S. Maine Corps, is a Texas Aggie. Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is a Texas Tech Red Raider. And note what did not happen: no hurricanes. In sports, TCU made us proud as the first Texas college football team to play for the national championship. Then the Horned Frogs humiliated Texas by losing to Georgia by a play-off record 65 to 7. Damian Lillard of the Trail Blazers scored 71-points in Houston Rocket’s 131-114 loss. What a state Washington State is in: When the Houston Astro Jose Altuve was hit by a pitch in a game in Seattle, a Mariners fan leapt to his feet for a standing ovation while cheers could be heard throughout the stadium. Houston went through coaches like Kleenex. The

Texans fired their head coach as did the Houston Cougars. The Rockets replaced their coach with Ime Udoka who had been fired a few months earlier by the Boston Celtics for what the team deemed an improper relationship with a staff member. This brings us to Texas A&M University, which made national headlines by kicking off Jimbo Fisher and having to pay him $76.8 million. Then there was the hiring and firing of a famed Black journalist and scholar, Dr. Kathleen McElroy. She was ruled un-Aggie by some deep-pocket former students because she had worked for 20 years at The New York Times. And we had the embarrassing story of A&M professor Joy Alonzo who was placed on administrative leave after she was accused of making a personal attack against Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. We’re Number 1! Houston had the greatest number of postal service employees attacked by dogs. Fifty-seven postal service employees were bitten by dogs in 2022, according to the USPS’ Dog Bite National Rankings. Lawn Love reports Houston is the most prepared city to fight zombies with 18 hunting gear stores and 60 ammunition

stores. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was named fair/rodeo of the year by the Academy of Country Music Honors. More people moved to Houston last year than any other U.S. city, based on Penske Truck Rental bookings. Houston led for the second year in a row. We’re almost Number 1: The data firm Altrata , which defines a person around the world who is ultra-wealthy as someone with at least a net worth of $30 million, ranked Houston as15th on the list, with 4,420 ultra-wealthy individuals. Dallas ranked 14th with 4,686 ultra-wealthy individuals. Not 2023 But Interesting: Based on 2021 data compiled by the federal government, Rep. Sylvia Garcia’s 29th Congressional District, which includes much of east Houston, had the most reported roads blocked by trains in the nation, 1,376. That is more than double the second-most blocked region. The Anti-Defamation League reported that in 2022 Texas was home to more than 525 hate crimes out of 6,751 nationwide, the highest total the organization has ever recorded. This represented a spike of roughly 60 percent in Texas compared with the previous year.

Maybe That’s Why She Lost: Mayoral candidate U.S. Rep Sheila Jackson Lee aired a 30-second TV ad on ABC, CBS and NBC affiliates telling viewers “vote on or before December 7th.” But the runoff election was on Dec. 9. A United Airlines flight from Houston bound for Amsterdam instead had to make an emergency landing in Chicago to remove an unruly passenger -- who was reportedly angry he wasn’t able to have his first choice of an in-flight meal. A Southwest Airlines flight from Atlanta to Houston was delayed for an hour due to flight attendants refusing to allow the pilots to take off until whoever spilled their fried rice in the plane’s aisle admitted to it and cleaned it up. But, nobody on board admitted to spilling the food. In Austin, four former aides to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued him for $3.3 million, claiming they had been fired in retaliation for reporting him to authorities for alleged corruption crimes. Paxton wanted the state to pay. The state refused. All told, Paxton’s legal troubles have cost Texas taxpayers $6 million. Gov. Abbott tweeted an article about Garth Brooks

getting booed off stage. The story described how Brooks, who has been a target of right-wingers, was performing in the Texas city of Hambriston when “patriots” booed the country music legend mercilessly before he finally left after just two minutes. Spoiler Alert: The city of Hambriston doesn’t exist, and the article was a completely fake. Gov. Abbott wins our Five Strikes and You Should Be Out Trophy after repeatedly trying to get the legislators to funnel taxpayer dollars to private schools. Conservative Christian state Rep. Bryan Slaton was expelled from the Legislature after finding he engaged in “inappropriate sexual conduct” with a 19-year-old intern who previously worked in his office. Quote of the Year (Who Needs Books Category): New HISD superintendent Mike Miles: “I’d rather have a highquality teacher getting paid a lot, than have a librarian doing what, checking out books?” If you survived 2023, it was a good year. Ashby is into 2024 at ashby2@comcast.net

A name I’ll always remember: Loras Goedken Mark Garay Columnist

By Mark Garay MARKGARAY426@GMAIL.COM

“Through bitter tears and wounded years / Those ties of blood were strong / So much to say, those yesterdays / Oh, so now don’t you turn away” - Journey, “Mother, Father”

had no idea who he was or why he was so important to so many others. Not famous, he was a favorite guest on “Oprah”. Not a consistent newsmaker but featured in Newsweek. Not a criminal, but he was the man responsible for his own wife’s death. I mean he was one of us, a Texan from Fort Bend. But does anyone still recognize the name Loras Goedken? In the end, he was one of the most wonderful and inspiring men I’ve ever met.

That morning in 1996 began like most others. I arrived at work at ABC-13 per usual around 9 a.m. My assignment: a profile of some guy from Fort Bend County chosen to carry the Olympic torch on its way to Atlanta with an afternoon pass through Houston. I was charged with meeting this man, interviewing him, and hopefully sending a live helicopter report as he took the torch for about a half mile. Technically, this would be difficult. The chance of us actually catching him running was unlikely. Although we had a general time to expect his turn, there was no way to control the shot. Someone ahead of him might be a slow runner, or worse yet, faster. I didn’t mind. It sounded like a fun assignment and I enjoyed helicopter rides. I filled up my coffee cup, gathered what information I could and began reviewing it in the car on our way to meet him. What I read began to intrigue me. Loras Goedken grew up in Monticello, Iowa. Ninth child to Mary and Vince. By all accounts, his early childhood was idyllic. He was one of 11 children, seven boys. 23 years separated oldest from

youngest. They all played in the thick green fields and red barns that sprinkled the flat Iowa landscape. In all, eight of them would be gone in the coming years. Loras, like most of his siblings, was born a hemophiliac. Not as much was known about the disease at the time. His brother Ernie was the first to die from complications in 1971. As time went on, their mother Mary made several emergency hospital trips an hour south to Iowa City to get the kids treated. When they became widely available in the mid ‘70s, the Goedken kids started taking blood clotting treatments to stem the excessive bleeding. But rumors soon began to circulate that supplies had been infected by the HIV virus, which causes AIDS. And even less was known about that. Soon, the reality of AIDS was painfully obvious. With each diagnosis followed immense pain and a diversity of health malfeasance. The kids would eventually massage each other’s joints as those hurting the most slowly suffered by burying their heads in their pillows. Still, crying from the pain was often impossible to hide.

A year after Ernie died, brother Carl developed AIDS-related dementia from a tainted blood transfusion. Before he passed, he sprayed a bottle of lighter fluid into his fireplace and burned down his house. He ended up dying in a mental facility in March 1998. Then there was baby Clayton, Loras’ nephew. Three months after his birth, he developed a suspicious ear infection. The infant was transferred to Texas Children’s Hospital. He died in September. A year later, Clayton’s dad, Dennis Goedken died. The Goedkens continued to die from AIDS-related illnesses over the ensuing years. And soon Loras’ own wife Jan, was diagnosed. He’d infected her without knowing, and she began suffering from dementia as well. Eventually she didn’t recognize Loras or the home they shared. She died on April 18, 1990. But her death didn’t Loras’s will. Instead, it strengthened his resolve. When I arrived at Lorass’ home, I was expecting to find a broken man. Riddled with guilt for accidentally infecting his wife, he was

probably mired in sadness, and angered by the reality that decimated his family. Instead, I heard a bubbly laugh nearby after his friend let us in. Loras limped in from the garage. He was a slight man, maybe 5’5”, predictably thin, with sunken eyes and a wispy Van Gogh-type beard. He walked awkwardly. It was clear he was in pain, as his knee and elbow joints looked like bruised onions. He smiled largely. We discussed his life, his efforts to raise awareness through national media platforms. He went on to explain his testimony in front of the Senate subcommittee on HIV. We talked about all his school speeches and his trip to Japan to contribute to the International Conference on Hemophilia and HIV. I marveled at his descriptions of living literally day by day. He was engaging and intelligent. He was lively and loud. His face dramatically supported his thoughts, and his humor drew me in like gravity on some dense planet. Finally, he invited me to his garage, and he unveiled his favorite treasure. It was a fire-engine-red 1973 Olds

Cutlas 88, complete with a big block engine and a ragtop. As we said our goodbyes, he took off in the car by lighting up the tires and leaving a 6-foot rubber trail on the concrete. I don’t remember exactly why Loras came to Texas. But he acted like us. He lived as a brave, unyielding and transformative optimist. He understood the power of being strong, and the grace that comes from inner strength. This is why Loras Goedken is my hero. He had already developed lymphoma. He couldn’t walk well. The last time I saw him was from the helicopter, which somehow captured the live images of Loras raising the Olympic torch. He ran that afternoon, when a few hours earlier he could barely walk. Loras died on August 24, 1997. Shortly afterward, I got a phone call from his son. We exchanged pleasantries and he asked if I wanted his dad’s car. Apparently Loras had suggested just that in the weeks before he passed. I appreciated the gesture but had to decline. Garay can be reached at MarkGaray426@gmail.com

Losin’ my resolution Ken

Fountain Editor

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Well, we got through another one.

s 2023 draws to a close and 2024 is on the horizon, many of us are taking stock of how the last year has gone. When I wrote my column last year at this time, I was still working on getting my hands around this

job as editor of a community newspaper covering the dynamic and fastgrowing Fort Bend County. It’s often been a challenge, but I like to think I’ve been able to do it with some measure of success.

In that same column, I mentioned that I’ve never been much for making New Year’s resolutions. But this time I’m going to make an exception. As we all know, there’s a lot going on in the world just now. With ongoing crises overseas, economic concerns at home and other issues at play, here in the U.S. we’re headed toward a presidential election season which, even now, promises to be the most contentious since, well, the last one and the one before that.

Whatever one’s thoughts about the outcome of the 2020 election, I think most of us were hoping that once it was past us, much of the bitterness and vitriol that we’d experienced over the previous few years might dissipate. Sadly, as we’ve seen, that hasn’t been the case. I don’t spend much time paying much attention to ideologically driven news. I have a few news sources I believe bring a sense of balance to their news coverage of events and, in particular, politics. One of those has long been the “PBS NewsHour,” which today still presents the news largely the way it has since it began in its original incarnation as “The McNeil Report” in 1975. Last year, the program’s longtime anchor, Judy Woodruff, stepped down from that

role and began another as a roving correspondent. She’s focusing on the divisions that have plagued this country for far too long, and on the bright spots where those divisions are being overcome. Last week, PBS ran an hourlong program showcasing those efforts, titled “America at a Crossroads.” (You can find it online at pbs.org/ newshour/tag/america-ata-crossroads.) In one segment, Woodruff speaks to a group of politically astute commentators. At one point, she tells them when she began in journalism, the news media were still seen as mostly objective. “We were supposed to be reporting for everybody. We were reporting, and it was for the whole country,” she said. “Today, the media, some of it, is much more partisan.”

I discussed this earlier this year when I gave a talk to the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. As I told the attendees, I have tried to maintain that same sense of objectivity in my reporting for the Fort Bend Star. Even in my opinion columns, I try to hew to a fairly moderate tone, both out of personal inclination and professional obligation. Leading up to and after the 2016 election, I watched, somewhat in shock, at the way the tenor of my social media interactions became increasingly, not just partisan, but vitriolic. People I’d known for decades sometimes became unrecognizable to me, not just in their beliefs, but in the way they talked to and about each other. To my disappointment, I sometimes also succumbed to that

impulse. The signs I spoke about earlier that next year’s election will be just as ugly, if not more so, are not just at the national level. “All politics is local,” the saying goes, and there are already indications right here in Fort Bend County that we likely will see our own share of vitriol. From my small perch at this newspaper, I can’t solve this problem. What I can do is pay attention to my own thinking, how I’m interacting with others - whether they are friends, family, acquaintances or complete strangers - and work to treat everyone with respect. That’s it. That’s my New Year’s resolution. I hope you’ll join me. Fountain maintains his resolve at KFountain@fortbendstar.com

F O RT B E N D S TA R . C O M

THE STAR

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023 • PAGE 5

Fort Bend libraries offer crafts programs in January Staff Reports Fort Bend County Libraries presents a variety of craftthemed programs for adults every month to introduce people to new hobbies and activities, and to give current crafters inspiration and new ideas. Find encouragement, get feedback, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of other crafters during these free events. Samples of the library’s instructional books, magazines, and websites on various crafts will be available. The schedule of activities in January is as follows: Mamie George Branch Library, 320 Dulles Ave, Stafford (281-238-2880) * Adult Craft: Easy Paper Wreath - Wednesday, January 3, 10:30 a.m. Learn how to make simple paper wreaths that can be customized for year-round use. Registration required. University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd, Sugar Land (281-633-5100) * Craft Squad: Zen Doodles - Friday, January 5, 2-4 p.m, Meeting Room 1. People who enjoy crafts are invited to join the Craft Squad, where they can make new crafty friends, learn a new craft or two, and share tips, tricks, and resources with fellow crafters. Each month features a different craft demonstration. In January, the featured

craft demonstration is “Zen Doodles.” Zen doodles are intricate drawings that are easy-to-learn, relaxing, and a creative way of drawing structured patterns. In this beginner-level class, hear about different patterns that are used to make a zen doodle, and then create personalized doodles. Materials for this program are made possible by the Friends of the University Branch Library. This program is for adults and older teens ONLY. Registration is required. * Craft Squad Social - Fridays, January 12, 19, and 26, 2-4 p.m., Meeting Room 1. At weekly Craft Squad Socials, crafters can bring their own craft and materials to work on while networking with other crafters. The Craft Squad Social is suitable for adults and older teens ONLY. Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge (281238-2140) * “Bring Your Own Craft” Club (BYOC) - Fridays, January 12 and 26, 2-3 p.m., Conference Room. People of all experience levels - from beginners to advanced - who enjoy any type of crafting are invited to attend to get other crafters’ perspectives, critiques, and suggestions. Chat and network with other crafters who enjoy anything from art and needlework to woodwork and much more! Missouri City Branch Li-

brary, 1530 Texas Parkway (281-238-2100) * Vision-Board Party Friday, January 5, 2-4 p.m., Meeting Room. Learn how to create a vision board, set goals, and envision one’s dreams for the future. Supplies are provided by the generous support of the Friends of the Missouri City Branch Library. Registration required. * Crafty Creators: CoffeeFilter Peonies - Wednesday, January 10, 7-8 p.m., Meeting Room. In this crafting group, a different craft project or art medium will be demonstrated each month. Everyone attending will have an opportunity to participate! The featured craft project for January is “Coffee-Filter Peonies.” Learn how to use simple coffee filters and wire to create beautiful flowers. Materials are made possible by the Friends of the Missouri City Branch Library. Registration required. Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd, Missouri City (281-238-2900) * Sienna Art Club: TicTac-Toe Board - Wednesday, January 10, 3-5 p.m.. This monthly program is for people who enjoy all kinds of crafts. The featured demonstration in January is a “Tic-Tac-Toe Board,” made with wood and paint. Materials for the demonstration are provided courtesy of the Friends of the Sienna Branch Library.

People of all ages and experience levels - from beginners to advanced - who enjoy any types of crafts are invited to attend. Bring a craft project and share experiences with others who are thinking about taking up a new hobby. Those attending this program should bring their own supplies for their craft. This club meets on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. Registration required. * Craft Circle - Friday, January 19, 2-4 p.m.. In this monthly craft club, which will meet on the 3rd Friday of every month, craft enthusiasts of all experience levels - from beginners to advanced - who enjoy any type of crafting are invited to attend to get other crafters’ perspectives, critiques, and suggestions. Chat and network with other crafters who enjoy anything from art and needlework to woodwork and much more! Those attending should bring their projects and their own crafting supplies. Samples of the library’s instructional books, magazines, and websites on various crafts will be available. Crafters are invited to come and go as time permits. * Adult Craft: Perpetual Calendar - Wednesday, January 24, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Conference Room 2A. Learn how to make a perpetual wood-block calendar for the new year. Materials are provided courtesy of the Friends

of the Sienna Branch Library. Registration required. * How to Start Your Own Etsy Business - Tuesday, January 30, 2-3 p.m., Computer Lab. Learn how to set up an online store on Etsy. com, a virtual marketplace for handmade and vintage goods. Hear about common errors to avoid and get tips for keeping the shop going. Participants may choose to attend either session. Registration required. Mission Bend Branch Library, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road (832-471-5900) * Intro to Cricut & Vinyl Monday, January 29, 6 p.m., Computer Lab. In this introductory adult craft class, learn how to use the Cricut, an electronic cutting machine that can cut all sorts of designs from materials like paper, vinyl, cardstock, and more! To follow along with the demonstration, participants should bring their own vinyl that is appropriate for the user’s intended purpose (Heat-Transfer Vinyl HTV for fabric, removeable vinyl for wall art, or permanent vinyl for cups/paper crafts). Registration required. First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land (281-238-2800) * Cricut Basics - Saturday, January 20, 2-3:30 p.m., Meeting Room. In this introductory adult craft class, learn how to use the Cricut, an electronic

cutting machine that can cut all sorts of designs from materials like paper, vinyl, cardstock, and more! Registration required. * Crafty Stitches - Thursday, January 25, 11 a.m., Conference Room. Needlework enthusiasts are invited to attend this come-and-go share group to share tips, get ideas and inspiration, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow needlecrafters. People of all experience levels - from beginners to advanced - who enjoy any type of needle crafting can get other crafters’ perspectives, critiques, and suggestions. Chat with other needle crafters while knitting, crocheting, or sharing other needlework hobbies! Those attending should bring their project and materials. Meets on the 4th Thursday of the month. Materials for these programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Library organizations that support each library. The activities are free and open to the public. Registration is required for some of the programs. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select the branch library, and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281633-4734).

Local law enforcement to implement ‘No Fort Bend libraries Refusal’ initiative over New Year’s weekend closed on Jan. 1 Staff Reports

The Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement are implementing a “No Refusal” initiative over New Year’s weekends, according to a press release from the office. Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, December 29-31, law enforcement will be targeting drivers who are impaired by alcohol or other substances. Attorneys from the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office will be present to draft search warrants allowing local judges to authorize a blood draw from drivers who have demonstrated evi-

Staff Reports

dence of their intoxication. Nurses will also be on hand to draw blood once a warrant is obtained. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has upheld blood search warrants as a legal means to obtain evidence in DWI cases from suspects who are arrested but refuse to take a breath or blood test. “Our attorneys work through the holiday season to keep you safe,” District Attorney Brian Middleton said in the release. “Help us out by enjoying your holidays responsibly.” The No Refusal initiative is funded by a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation.

All branches of Fort Bend County Libraries will be on Monday, January 1, for the New Year’s holiday. Regular library hours will resume on Tuesday, January 2. The online library is always open at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us for searching the catalog, renewing books or placing holds, downloading e-books or music, streaming movies, or using the research databases.

THANK YOU FOR READING

"Multitalented" by Steve Zisser

Across

1. Carry on, as war 5. Go at _____ speed (zoom along) 9. Colorful talker 14. Made a great impression 15. Fanboy's fave, perhaps 16. Island that is part of 18-D 17. Rapper/tapper? 20. TV's Mork and ALF, for 2 21. Sounding all stuffed up 22. Impetuously utter 23. Help in the wrong way 25. Ready-fire connector 28. Siri runs on it 29. Dunderhead 31. "Muscle" 33. 23-D, e.g. 34. Veteran sailor 35. Filler of many positions 38. Don't bring them to gunfights 39. Severely injures 40. Innovative thoughts 41. Jeans and khakis 42. Miracle-_____ 45. One of many to be connected 46. Slight car mishap 47. Ready for bed 49. Fall flower 52. House where 100 deliberate 53. Handy person to have on call 57. Actor Alan or Adam 58. Go fast 59. Capone's pursuer 60. Sprtizes lightly 61. Trade show 62. "Como ______ usted?"

Down

1. Condiment at the sushi bar 2. Classic Harlem theater

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL 2

33 35

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

46 49

Drymalla Construction Company, LLC (CM at Risk) is soliciting Qualifications/Proposals from Subcontractors/Suppliers for the Lamar CISD New Elementary School No. 35. Project consists of a new Elementary School Facility, located at 24735 East Ramsey Way, Richmond, Texas 77406. Refer to the Project Documents for a full description of scope. Pre-Proposal Conference to be held Friday January 5, 2024, 2:00 pm via web-conferencing, information to follow. Qualifications/Proposals are due at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at the offices of Drymalla Construction Company, LLC, 608 Harbert, Columbus, Texas 78934, via fax 979-732-3663, or email to bid@drymalla.com. NO PHONE BIDS WILL BE ACCEPTED. For information on how to obtain copies of the Request for Qualifications/Proposal documents call 979-732-5731, or email Larry Bookout at lbookout@drymalla.com . Documents are also available online at planroom.drymalla.com.

For additional information, contact the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).

3. High IQ type 4. Landscaping tool 5. They're worth 2 points in the NHL 6. Do sums 7. Fishing pole 8. Mercury or Saturn 9. They're big at the Golden Arches 10. It's measured in square units 11. "With honor," on a diploma 12. Attorneys' org. 13. Pallid 18. Netherlands _________ (island group) 19. ____ King Cole 23. Isn't wrong? 24. Terrifying person 26. Marty's role in "Young Frankenstein" 27. Where Rangers play in NYC

30. Speaker's place 31. Truck driver 32. Makes bales of grass 33. Hindu god of destruction 34. Use a letter opener 35. Edit menu option 36. Men's neckwear pins 37. Hungry feeling 38. Pull one's leg 41. Skull-and-crossbones sort 42. A or B, but not AB 43. Do-over requested by a failing student 44. "The _____ File" 46. With 53-D, major hip-hop recording label 48. Ludicrous 50. SNL staple 51. Shipping units 52. Houston baseballer, familiarly 53. See 46-D 54. Flesicher, Gold or Shapiro 55. _____ Luthor 56. Once around the block

Drymalla Construction Company, LLC (CM at Risk) is soliciting Qualifications/Proposals from Subcontractors/Suppliers for the Lamar Consolidated ISD Bid Package #6 consisting of Judge R.H. “Sandy” Bielstein Middle School, Water and Sanitary Sewer Improvement, Sanitary Lift Station, Paving and Drainage Improvement for East Ramsey Road, Rancho Bella Boulevard and Farmdale Road, Left and Right Turn Lanes on F.M. 723, and Judge R.H. “Sandy” Bielstein Middle School & Elementary School #35 Mass Grading. Project consists of a new Middle School Facility and various site earthwork, utility and offsite improvement scopes. Refer to the Project Documents for a full description of scope. Qualifications/Proposals are due at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at the offices of Drymalla Construction Company, LLC, 608 Harbert, Columbus, Texas 78934, via fax 979-732-3663, or email to bid@drymalla.com. NO PHONE BIDS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Pre-proposal meeting (virtual) will take place January 5, 2024, from 2-4 pm. For information on how to obtain copies of the Request for Qualifications/ Proposal documents call 979-732-5731, or email Sharon Fisher at sfisher@drymalla.com. Documents are also available online at planroom.drymalla.com.

THE STAR

PAGE 6 • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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THE STAR

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023 • PAGE 7

Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to awilliams@txstreetmedia.com

FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS

ONGOING BOYS CAN SING WITH THE AWARD-WINNING AND EMMYNOMINATED FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR!

Do you know a boy who loves music and singing? If so, encourage him to audition for the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas! No previous singing experience is necessary and boys should be around eight years of age or older with an unchanged voice. Boys have a limited time to sing in the unchanged, treble voice so it is important to take advantage NOW! At this time, 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 Audition page at https://fbbctx.org/auditions/ or call (281) 240-3800 for more details. Make the holiday season brighter for you and the boys in your life … check out the award-winning and Emmy nominated Fort Bend Boys Choir today as they celebrate this season’s theme: Singing Boys are Nothing but Treble!

SAVE THE DATE JANUARY 27, 2024 FELICIA SMITH JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION

Register now for the family fun Hope For Three Autism Advocates, Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition. This exciting event is on January 27, 2024, at Fort Bend Christian Academy, North Campus Gymnasium, 1250 7th., Sugar Land 77478. Teams of four, young and seasoned, have two hours to complete a 250-500-1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle. Awards immediately follow, and bragging rights are guaranteed! Check-in is at 9 am, and the timed competition is from 10 am to noon. The event is one way the local nonprofit raises awareness and funds for families with autistic children and loved ones. Register your team ($160) now. To volunteer, serve as a sponsor, or for autism resources, visit www.hopeforthree.org

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.

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

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.

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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: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

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 281-240-8181 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.

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

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

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!

THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES

MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801

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

EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 35+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY

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 713-859-5920 or 281-499-3345.

Have a Non Profit? Need to get it out there? Put here in our community calendar!

Santa THE STAR

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, December 27, 2023

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

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