17 minute read
Picnic for the Park
Picnic Raises $119,000 for Cullinan Park
The Cullinan Park Conservancy (CPC) raised $119,000 for park improvements at its 6th Annual Picnic for the Park presented by Memorial Hermann. Supporters of the park gathered on October 7th at River Pointe Church to raise funds for the expansion and improvement of trails, beautification of White Lake and design and construction of a future Learning, Exploration and Play (LEAP) area for children.
In an effort to promote healthy lifestyles in our community, Memorial Hermann has partnered with the Conservancy to support Cullinan Park and the outdoor nature experience the park offers to all. Studies show that spending time in nature can improve both physical and mental health, and the medical providers at Memorial Hermann want to support and promote outdoor experiences. Malisha Patel, Senior Vice President and CEO, Memorial Hermann Southwest and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, facilitated an eye-opening discussion with Drs. Sameer Murali and Melissa Kwan on wellness, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to nature and how that positively impacts community health.
“Many thanks to our generous sponsors, loyal patrons and new donors who support our efforts to enhance and protect the natural beauty of Cullinan Park. It’s wonderful to see that so many in our community value Cullinan as much as I do,” said Development Chair Gay Thompson.
“We were also honored to present the Nina Cullinan Award to faithful supporters Doug and Susie Goff,” added Thompson. “The Goffs have been instrumental in supporting our mission for many, many years, and we appreciate their leadership and generosity.”
Winners of the 2022 Cullinan Park Photo Contest were announced at the Picnic. The contest drew more than 300 entries from across the greater Houston area including in-
credible images of the birds, wildlife, flora and scenery found at the 754-acre nature park.
“We had a huge spike in the number of photographers visiting Cullinan this year, and that is reflected in our contest entries. We were blown away by the quality and variety of images, making the judges’ task very difficult. The winning shots are amazing, and many of our honorable mention photos are magazine cover-worthy,” said contest organizer Robbin Mallett.
Three accomplished local photographers served as contest judges: Mary Favre, John Whitt and Greg Lavaty. The contest was sponsored by Oxbow Advisors, LLC, and all entries had to be taken within Cullinan Park, located just north of Sugar Land Regional Airport at 12414 Highway 6 South in Sugar Land.
In the adult group, the following entries won first place in their respective categories: Birds – “Tangled Up Little Blues” by Sue Mitchell; Wildlife – “Baby Possum” by Roger Hutchison; Eagle/Osprey – “Live Another Day” by Clarence Yeung; Landscape – “Morning Reflection” by Kent Lim; and Flora – “Spreading Out” by Janaki Wallooppillai.
The youth winners ranged from ages seven to 15. Winning first place were: Wildlife – “Creature Hidden in the Deep” by Saketh Tammisetti; Birds – “Standing Watch” by Tyler Lockwood; Landscape – “Waiting for the Right One” by Rishi Eti; and Flora – “Golden Bloom” by Tyler Lockwood.
All of the winning photo contest entries can be viewed at www.cullinanparkconservancy.org.
The Friends of the Mamie George Branch Library will host their Annual Book Sale on Friday, November 18th, from 12 noon to 4 pm, and on Saturday, November 19th, from 10 am to 1 pm, in the lobby of the library, located at 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford.
People who love books, people who love bargains, and people who need to get rid of some spare change will find a lot in common at the book sale. Gently used hardcover children’s and adults’ books will be available for sale for $1 each, DVDs and discs will be $1 and paperback books will be 25¢.
The Friends of the Mamie George Branch Library organization is instrumental in funding library materials not covered in the regular library budget. Proceeds from the book sale and annual membership dues also help to underwrite the costs of special programming at the Mamie George Branch Library.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, or call the Mamie George Branch Library at 281-238-2880 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
Stafford MSD Education Foundation Annual Golf Classic Supporting Public Education
Join the Annual Golf Classic benefiting Stafford MSD teachers and graduating seniors. The Stafford MSD Education Foundation will host an 18-hole scramble golf tournament on November 7th. Registration is at 8 am and Tee Time at 9 am at Quail Valley Golf Course, located at 2880 La Quinta Drive in Missouri City. The player entry fee starts at $125 and will include the following: A light breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day, Fajita dinner, presentation of awards, tickets for door prizes, live and silent auction.
For more information, contact Coordinator of Grants, Partnerships and Community Relations Cherise Roberts at foundation@staffordmsd.org or 281-208-6134.
The Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD) Education Foundation’s mission is to increase educational opportunities for SMSD students through scholarships and classroom grants for teachers generated by partnerships with educators, parents, community members, businesses and civic leaders committed to bridging the gap between needs and resources. To learn more, visit www.staffordmsd.org/meet-stafford/education-foundation.
A M A T E U R P H O T O C O N T E S T
November 2022 Winner
“King of Botswana” By Joe Schmitt
Congratulations you’ve earned a gift certificate!
ENTER TO WIN
Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. The entry must not have previously appeared in any publication.
A WINNER EVERY ISSUE
Each issue’s winner receives a gift certificate and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, e-mail grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.
NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES
To submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to Grace@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Digital photos must be 300 dpi HIGH RESOLUTION at size of at least 10” wide. Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and phone number.
By submitting an entry, the photographer gives Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.
By Steve Kursar
2022 CADILLAC CROSSOVER & SUV
Cadillac Escalade interior.
gine as an option. So, if you feel the need for more power, then you choose the 310 hp, 3.6 liter V6 engine that will give you 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The largest crossover Cadillac offers is the three-row XT6. This is the crossover to choose if you have to have a third row but you don’t need all the room the big Escalade can provide. The XT6 is offered with two powertrains, the same ones that power the smaller XT5. The Cadillac Escalade is the biggest, roomiest and most powerful Cadillac in this lineup. With a starting MSRP of $79,795, the Escalade comes standard with a massive 420 hp, 6.2 liter V8 that gets 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. There is an alternate powertrain, a 277 hp, 3.0 liter turbo-diesel that delivers much better fuel economy numbers of 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Whatever your needs, there’s a luxurious Caddy to fit your
The 2022 Cadillac Crossover and SUV lineup is one that has needs like a well made suit. upped the bar for its competitors. Known as the ultimate in luxury, Cadillac has taken that cue and created a group of four vehicles that will be the envy of all your neighbors. And, there’s a size to fit all families, from empty nesters to large families that always need more room.
For those who are looking to move up to a luxury brand vehicle, the Cadillac XT4 is the perfect choice. It’s the entry level model that is also designed for buyers who want the luxury but don’t need a great deal of room behind the front seat. With a base MSRP of $36,295, this compact crossover is powered by a 235 hp, 2.0 liter turbocharged inline four cylinder engine and delivers impressive fuel economy numbers of 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It may be just an entry level crossover, but it’s still a Cadillac through and through.
If you need a roomier interior with a larger back seat, then step up to the Cadillac XT5. With a base MSRP of $44,195, the XT5 was designed for families and those owners who just need extra cargo space. The base engine for the XT5 is the same as its smaller sister the XT4, but there’s a larger more powerful en- Cadillac Escalade
Who are the 2022 Fort Bend Favs?
Find out in our December Issue @fortbendfocus
MEDICAL FOCUS
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Welcomes Orthopedic Surgeon Alessandra Falk, M.D.
Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land is pleased to welcome foot and ankle surgeon Alessandra Falk, M.D.
Dr. Falk comes to Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine from The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas, where she completed a fellowship in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery.
Prior to that, she completed a BA/ MA at Johns Hopkins University, where she also studied and taught ballet. She earned her medical degree with distinction in clinical research at The Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. She completed an orthopedic residency, where she serves as chief resident at Montefiore Medical Center, also in New York.
Dr. Falk specializes in Achilles tendon disorders, ankle arthritis, foot and ankle deformity, foot and ankle nerve compression syndromes, ankle sprain, flat Alessandra Falk, M.D., orthopedic surgeon feet, foot and ankle fractures, and more.
“My goal is to restore maximum function to patients suffering from foot and ankle injury and paint,” said Falk. “I tailor my plan of care to the individual, exploring both operative and non-operative solutions based on their needs. Restoring independence, mobility, and patient comfort is one of the joys of my job. It has been my privilege to work with some of the best thought leaders in this field and I look forward to serving the patients in the Sugar Land community and beyond.” Dr. Falk is located at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine’s state-of-the-art facility at 16811 Southwest Fwy. on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. To make an appointment with Dr. Falk or another specialist at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/orthopedicssl or call 281.201.0409.
Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
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Poland Named Sugar Land Police Department (SLPD) Police Chief
Sugar Land City Manager Michael W. Goodrum selected Loudoun County Undersheriff/Colonel Mark J. Poland to serve as Sugar Land’s next police chief. He is expected to begin November 1st.
Poland was identified through an extensive, nationwide search. He replaces Eric Robins, who retired in July after 33 years of public service that included 30 at SLPD with four years as chief.
Poland most recently served as undersheriff for Virginia’s largest full-service sheriff’s department (LCSO) where he supervised 841 law enforcement officers and civilians and managed a $111 million budget.
Poland’s 26-year law enforcement career includes a diverse and strong background in many facets of law enforcement, management and leadership. He credits integrity, work ethic and leading by example as the attributes that led to his appointment as undersheriff.
Most recently, he implemented a complex public-private partnership involving numerous community stakeholders working toward the resettlement of Afghan refugees. Partnering agencies included the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Services, INOVA Hospital System, Loudoun County Administrator, Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, National Conference Center, the All-Dulles Area Muslim Society, local church leaders and many others.
“I am looking forward to joining the Sugar Land team and working together to ensure we remain among the nation’s safest cities,” said Poland. “I am a hard-working leader who demands professionalism from law enforcement individuals. I also believe as a law enforcement official, leaders within our profession must continue to expand our knowledge and grow as
professionals to keep ahead of ever-changing trends in crime.” Poland has a passion for partnerships such as the one he fostered between LCSO and Loudoun County Fire and Rescue (LCFR). Both LCSO and LCFR leaders created joint High Threat Teams and Command Competency Lab training for all personnel to be prepared to immediately respond to active-violence incidents. Poland joined LCSO in 1997 as a patrol deputy before promotions to detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, lieutenant colonel and undersheriff/colonel. He served in and provided leadership for several divisions Mark J. Poland including patrol, major crimes, special victims’ unit, narcotics and gangs, internal affairs and criminal investigations. From 1995 to 1997, Poland worked at the Winchester City Police Department, and started in 1997 with Loudoun County serving over 430,000 residents in the fastest growing county in the nation. Poland earned a bachelor’s degree in Police Science from George Washington University and a master’s degree in Homeland Security from The Naval Postgraduate School. He is a graduate of the 260th session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy and recently assisted as a subjectmatter expert for the Department of Justice Commission on Law Enforcement report. He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Virginia Chapter, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the Virginia Sheriff’s Institute, the Virginia Sheriff’s Association and the National Sheriff’s Association.
Forever Friends Looking Forward to First-Ever PAWp Up Shop Event
The city of Sugar Land’s first ever PAWp Up Shop will be held November 19th, from 10 am to 2 pm, at the animal shelter, 101 Gillingham Lane.
The event is an opportunity for the community to learn more about shelter operations, volunteer opportunities and meet the adoptable pets available at the facility. The family-oriented event will include fun activities for all ages, including: • Those who think they have what it takes to make it at the animal shelter are encouraged to participate in the “poop” scooping relay races! Prizes will be awarded. • A “Pup Strut” will be live streamed the Tuesday prior to the event to advertise the shelter’s finest adoptable pets that will be present at the event. • Participants may bring their family pets for low-cost microchipping. The cost will be $15.50 per pet. For pets already microchipped, city staff will be available to verify information on file and make any necessary updates to contact information. • Animal shelter tours will offer an opportunity to meet staff, see the facilities and visit with adoptable pets. Those considering a forever home for one of Sugar Land’s pets can visit https://trello.com/b/MYX8eRlX/petopia-adoptables before arriving at the shelter. To learn more, go to www.sugarlandtx.gov/pawpup.
OutRun Hunger 5K Raises More Than $30,000 for Charity
Hundreds of people turned miles into meals during this year’s OutRun Hunger 5k Family Walk and Run hosted by Harvest Green, raising more than $30,000 to feed hungry Fort Bend families.
This is the most money the event has raised since its inception in 2018. The annual race benefits East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, a non-profit organization helping families and individuals during times of temporary financial crisis.
“It was a definitely an amazing day,” said Stacey Williams, development director for East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. “We had perfect weather, almost 500 runner and walkers and more than $30,000 raised for East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry.”
The run also attracted 52 sponsors who contributed $19,750 toward the total. Approximately $97,500 has been raised by the run since its launch four years ago.
Last year, 300 participants and 50 sponsors raised $19,000 for the non-profit.
The money will be used by East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry to provide food and financial assistance to children, families and seniors. In 2021, the organization distributed $1,842,832 worth of food to families in need.
The race ended with an after-party at the finish line for participants and their cheering squads. The top three male and female finishers received awards. Kids received completion This year’s OutRun Hunger event in Harvest Green raised more than $30,000 for charity East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry and attracted its most participants ever.
ribbons for participation in a separate Kids Run. Overall winners in the race were Justin Arnosky, 34, first place with a time of 18:10; Adam Hawks, 38, second place, 18:41; and Kayla Shelky, 21, third place, 19:24.
“Hosting the OutRun Hunger 5K is one of the highlights of our year,” said Jerry Ulke, General Manager for Harvest Green. “We love seeing so many families turn out for a great cause.”
For more information about East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, visit https://www.humanneeds.org.
Visit https://www.harvestgreentexas.com for more information about Harvest Green.
Sugar Land City Council recently approved the donation of more than $1.2 million from the Cullinan Park Conservancy for the second phase of improvements at Cullinan Park.
The recent donation from the conservancy combined with a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Recreation Grant of $200,000 will fund the construction of 1.2 miles of concrete and decomposed granite trails, 30 head-in parking spaces along the entry road and a small parking lot with 45 spaces tucked in the woods south of the restroom. These improvements will provide the community with additional walking and jogging opportunities in nature, while preserving existing native hardwood trees. This phase also provides access and infrastructure for the planned third phase of improvements that will include a nature play and exploration area.
The conservancy has now donated more than $2.7 million for park improvements since the city annexed Cullinan Park.
The city of Sugar Land annexed the 754-acre Cullinan Park in January 2016 under an interlocal agreement with the city of Houston and a memorandum of understanding with the Cullinan Park Conservancy. The city is responsible for park security, maintenance/operations and management of design and construction projects while the Cullinan Park Conservancy is responsible for fundraising for capital improvements to the park.
“The Cullinan Park improvements have truly been a demonstration of a great partnership among multiple agencies,” said City of Sugar Land Director of Parks and Recreation Joe Chesser. “Staff of the city of Sugar Land are excited to work with the conservancy on this second phase of Cullinan Park improvements.”
The first phase of improvements was completed in 2019. They were designed to expand recreational opportunities for Sugar Land residents and the surrounding community and included the addition of a restroom facility, a 1/3-mile trail around White Lake, a boardwalk, an overlook, two trailheads, three donor recognition walls, site furnishing and native hardwood trees. Other amenities included clearing overgrown, dense areas to increase visibility at the park entrance, the driveway and a portion of the White Lake edge. Signage was also installed throughout the park to provide wayfinding and environmental education to the public.
For more updates, visit www.cullinanparkconservancy.org. For more information about programs, events and forestry initiatives, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/parks or call 281-275-2825.
