Fullshear Living August 2023

Dr. Sadie Bowling, Dr. Cynthia Aswad

Clyde King cking@hartmannews.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Marquita Griffin mgriffin@fbherald.com

ADVERTISING

Stefanie Bartlett sbartlett@fbherald.com

Ruby Polichino ruby@fbherald.com

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

Marquita Griffin Nick Irene Sam Scinta Jr

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Melinda Maya mmaya@fbherald.com

Rachel Cavazos rcavazos@fbherald.com

Rosenberg, Texas 77471.

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From victim to victor

Sabrina Greenlee to speak at Healing and Hope luncheon

The founder of S.M.O.O.O.T.H., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women impacted by domestic violence, will be the guest speaker at an annual event in Fort Bend centered on domestic violence.

Some may know the name Sabrina Greenlee after she shared her story of survival and overcoming obstacles last year with The Root’s Deputy Editor Tatsha Robertson, but on Oct. 17, Greenlee will continue to share her experiences, motivations and goals as a survivor of domestic violence at the Fort Bend Women’s Center 6th Annual Healing & Hope Luncheon — the center’s annual keynote event in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The luncheon is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Houston Marriott Sugar Land, 16090 City Walk and will benefit the Fort Bend Women’s Center.

As the only full-service domestic violence and sexual assault emergency shelter and crisis hotline in Fort Bend, the Fort Bend Women’s Center provided supportive services to 1,368 adults and 633

youth and assistance to 211 sexual assault survivors last year. Additionally, the center offered more than 9,300 mental health service hours and more than 36,500 case management service hours.

The nonprofit also report-

ed that it received 11,221 calls to its crisis hotline.

will provide a powerful testimonial of courage, strength, and resil ience,” stated Fort Bend Women’s

cials. “You will be inspired by the tenacity of a woman, who despite all odds, continued to persevere by not just surviving, but thriving.”

A POWERFUL STORY

Although most are appalled, shocked and grieved by the acid attack that blinded Greenlee in 2002, her story of overcoming physical, mental and emotional brutality began in childhood.

When she was 10 years old she was sexually assaulted by a man she knew, and neither her mother nor grandmother believed her, and one of her brothers, who was 12 at the time, died in her arms after a car accident. She told The Root that following her brother’s death, her mother forewent the parental attention her surviving children needed, and by the time she was 18, Greenlee had become a teenage mother, had gone through harsh relationships and married an abusive man.

But the late Harris Steve Hopkins, came into her life when Greenlee said she was broken, lost and needed saving. Greenlee said Steve, as he was known, never abused her, and the two had a son, who became NFL player DeAndre Hopkins. Greenlee said Steve also cared for her older two children as if they were his. But when their son, DeAndre, was a few months old, Steve died in a car accident.

In the years that followed, she had her fair share of turbulent experiences as she pushed forward as a single mother. In 2002, however, Greenlee suffered an encounter that put her life on an unanticipated trek and blinded her.

A man she was dating then had a girlfriend — a woman Greenlee was unaware of — who threw a mixture of Red Devil Lye and Clorox onto Greenlee.

Blood was everywhere, her skin was slipping off, she couldn’t see, and her ex-boyfriend took her to a nearby gas station. She describes the chaotic moment of having her ex and the store attendant throw water on her from a fountain in the back. Amid the pain and chaos, though, her ex-boyfriend aban-

doned her.

“I hear [the clerk], but I don’t hear him anymore,” she said in an interview with The Root. “Well, he leaves me there to die.”

But Greenlee didn’t.

She was put into a medically induced coma for about a month and when she woke, the road ahead of her consisted of pain, setbacks, and indescribable challenges as she tried to regain sight and move forward.

Greenlee had more than 30 surgeries on each eye, but the operations left her eyes weak, resulting in permanent detachment of her retinas. Greenlee is permanently blind in her right eye and has about 60 percent of sight in her left eye. The woman who attacked her with the mixture was sentenced to 20 years in prison. For a little more than three years, Greenlee said she stayed in her room except to go to eye appointments, and at a low point, considered throwing

herself into traffic.

“I was broken and I was tired — so tired of being tired, I had to have people come in to come in and feed my children,” she said in a 2022 interview with The Root Institute. “Life was bad.”

The home she shared with her four children was located near a highway, and Greenlee said she figured she could touch each mailbox to reach it. It was her son, DeAndre Hopkins, who stopped her.

“I figured if I could get out of the house and touch each mailbox [ ...] and get to the final mailbox, I would hear a car coming and throw myself in the road,” Greenlee said.

When she reached the second mailbox her son, who had been following her the entire time, “put his big hand on [her] shoulder” to stop her. They embraced. Greenlee said she was startled because she didn’t know her son was following.

“We never said a word, we start walking back to the house. I went back in my room and we went in his room, and we never talked about it again for years.”

RESTORING, RECREATING AND REPAIRING

Although she said her life has been “no crystal stair,” Greenlee credits her faith for fueling her confidence to inspire people to restore, recreate and repair themselves.

The South Carolina native, mother of four, and grandmother of six became the founder and CEO of S.M.O.O.O.T.H., Inc. — Speaking Mentally, Outwardly Opening Opportunities Toward Healing.

The nonprofit, which Greenlee launched about 10 years ago, connects survivors to reputable community aids, including counseling, personal and mental health, and financial and legal resources.

Through this platform, Greenlee and her team educate and empower women and children through outreach efforts and programs such as Pretty Scars Into Stars, 100 Shades of Purple, S.M.O.O.O.T.H. Santa, and the S.M.O.O.O.T.H. Transition Initiative.

Greenlee is also a recipient of the 2020 Houston Humanitarian Awards and that same year participated in a virtual panel discussion for domestic violence alongside Lisa Nichols hosted by Bank Of America.

She has been featured on ESPN, USA Today, and Living in Fear: Chronicles I and II, which won an Emmy, and regularly appears on local media outlets from South Carolina to Texas.

Greenlee recently emceed the women’s empowerment rally that hosted over 10,000 Houstonians and appeared on ABC News with the CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Greenlee is also preparing for an autobiography film, “Sabrina,” which is based on her life. The film will be released by BRON Studios.

“My mom has always put everyone before herself and sacrificed things unimaginable,” DeAndre Hopkins said in a statement regarding the film. “Now it’s time for people to see her true value and learn that giving up is not an option.”

Sabrina

2023,

nonprofit S.M.O.O.O.T.H.

another NFL mother and domestic violence survivor, Annie Apple, to host Super Bowl LVII SoftLife Fest in Arizona. The SoftLife Fest is intended for women who’ve survived hard times and are ready to embrace the power of gentleness and self-love. The fest included foods, music, life-enhancing workshops, meditative movement, interactive mindfulness resources and giveaways.

Sabrina Greenlee/Instagram | Sabrina Greenlee with her son DeAndre Hopkins during the February 2023 fundraising event Sip, Shop, & Give Back at Blue Nile, which was a collaboration with Blue Nile, her son and S.M.O.O.O.T.H., Inc.

Sabrina Greenlee/Instagram | S.M.O.O.O.T.H. founder and CEO Sabrina Greenlee thanked Houston’s 97.9 The Box and the Madd Hatta Morning Show in 2019 for the time given to share the nonprofit’s efforts and goals over the radio waves.

Greenlee/Instagram | In February

Sabrina Greenlee’s

partnered with

Sabrina Greenlee is a nationally celebrated community activist, author, inspirational speaker, and domestic violence survivor who has dedicated her life to facilitating women’s growth and evolution.

AU GU ST

Fulshear Mayor Aaron Groff presents Stacy Jacob with a first-place award in the Economic Development Corporation’s first photography contest during the opening of the new city hall. Photographers were to focus on “The Best of Fulshear,” which included people, places, animals and florals throughout the city. The photo will be displayed at the city municipal complex entrance lobby for one year.

Fulshear

Staff moves into final phase of new Fulshear branch library

Fort Bend County Libraries’ Bob Lutts Fulshear/ Simonton Branch Library closed permanently in May, and library staff is now busily preparing to move to the new Fulshear Branch Library later this summer. As of publishing, an opening date wasn’t confirmed.

Ranch Branch Library and George Memorial Library in Richmond to accommodate families visiting from the Fulshear area.

Fulshear-area families may continue to participate in FBCL’s Summer Reading Challenge. Online registration continues through August 31. Prizes can be collected from any FBCL location.

Anyone needing meeting space is encouraged to reserve a room at one of Fort Bend County Libraries’ other branches in the area.

“We want to remind everyone that they still have access to many library resources online 24/7,” said Russell. “The library’s resources that can be accessed through FBCL’s website – such as the databases, Homework Help, Ask-a-Librarian chat, OverDrive ebooks, Hoopla movies and music, and other online services – will still be available from any computer outside the library that has an Internet connection.”

Construction of the new Fulshear Branch Library is the final phase of a $19.8-million bond referendum approved by voters in November 2015, which included $13.4 million for a new library to be built on the north side of the county.

The new Fulshear Branch Library is located off Texas Heritage Parkway, north of FM 1093.

“We are very excited to begin this final phase of moving into the new Fulshear Branch Library,” said Library Director Clara Russell. “The new library is considerably larger than the old library, with many, many new amenities that could not be accommodated at the old library.”

According to Russell, library users will enjoy more room and a larger collection in the new Fulshear Branch Library, which will feature warm, welcoming spaces, natural lighting, an outdoor patio, a computer lab, and study rooms. Plus the interactive gaming table in the Youth Department and whimsical musical elements are included for child visitors.

“The new, bigger Fulshear Branch Library will definitely be in a better position to meet the needs of the growing communities of Fulshear. We are working to make it simply fabulous, with features that we hope the community will love,” said Russell.

When the new Fulshear Branch Library opens later this summer, visitors will be greeted by familiar faces from the old library, along with many new faces. Library staff members said they are eager to welcome the community to the new location and introduce everyone to all the new features, but in the meantime have been preparing for the move by ordering books and computer equipment for the new library.

The existing collection will be augmented by many new materials that have been purchased specifically for the new Fulshear Branch Library.

“There are thousands of materials in the old library that will be moved to the new library, so a considerable amount of organization is needed to move an entire collection to a new building and set up shelves, books, and computers,” said Fulshear Branch Library Manager Chaya Satish. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while we work diligently to prepare the new library for a grand opening later this summer.”

While waiting for the new Fulshear Branch Library to open, library users are encouraged to utilize the programs and services at other FBCL locations, such as the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy), George Memorial Library (1001 Golfview in Richmond), and the Mission Bend Branch Library (8421 Addicks Clodine Road).

Additional summer youth programs will be offered at the Cinco

“The area served by the Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library has grown and changed considerably since the library was originally built in 1998,” said Russell. “When the library was first built, it was designed to meet the needs of the community at that time. No one could have imagined how much Fulshear would grow in such a relatively short time.”

For more information, visit www.fortbend.lib. tx.us or call the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633- 4734.

New Fulshear city hall open for business

By Nick Irene | nirene@fbherald.com

The recently opened Fulshear Municipal Complex, located at 6611 West Cross Creek Bend Lane in the Marcel Town Center, welcomed residents for the first time in June, offering a centralized location for handling city business.

Fulshear Mayor Aaron Groff marked the momentous occasion by cutting the ceremonial rope, symbolizing the opening of the municipal complex and celebrating a significant milestone for the city’s future. According to Mayor Groff, streamlining the process was a key objective during the planning phase.

“Previously, you had to go to multiple buildings to pay your utility bill, pull a permit or go to the court,” Groff said. “They were all in dif-

Getting ready for the big move are Fulshear library staff, from left, Marilyn McPheron, Rachel Ripple, Chaya Satish, Chidiogo Nwokiki and Christy McCain.

Nick Irene | Fulshear Mayor Aaron Groff cuts the ceremonial red and white rope with Fulshear-Katy Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Don McCoy on Tuesday during the opening of the new Fulshear Municipal Complex inside the Marcel Town Center.

ferent locations, but now you walk through the front door and we can point you everywhere you need to go. Even the police department is located right next door.”

City officials have been working towards this day since 2016 to accommodate Fulshear’s rapidly growing population.

Groff revealed that from just over 700 residents in 2000, the city has expanded to approximately 35,000 residents today.

“This has been a process and to finally see the public fill it, it’s awe-inspiring,” Groff said. “To have a single location where every resident can come and all of their city business can happen at one stop is a phenomenal feeling.”

Conceptual plans were introduced in 2016 with Marcel offering a leasing space for the city in February, the mayor said. The new site comprises two facilities: a one-story building spanning nearly 13,000 square feet and a two-story building covering 26,000 square feet.

Previously, council meetings were held at the city hall on FM 1093, but relocation was recommended following an inspection in 2021. During the construction of the new facilities, council meetings were temporarily held at the industrial complex.

Attendees at the opening were treated to light refreshments, welcome presentations, and guided tours.

“It was an opportunity that pretty much fell into our laps,” Groff said. “We are saving residents millions of dollars by having this space. Not just a win for staff and council but for the city and its residents.”

Rangers take Brock in 8th Catcher becomes 1st former Charger selected in Draft

by SAM SCINTA JR. | sscinta@fbherald.com

Many kids grow up playing catch in their yard. Few ever get to the position Fulshear High School graduate Julian Brock was in last month as the Charger alum was drafted by the Texas Rangers with the 231st pick (eighth round) in the Major League Baseball Draft.

Brock, a catcher at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, became one of the 614 names called in the ongoing draft, a life-changing opportunity that could be the first step toward playing in The Show. For Brock going into the process, the Draft was about staying in the moment and not getting too far ahead of himself.

“Honestly, it’s a little nerve-wracking,” Brock said. “You can only prep so much with how the draft goes. It can be so on-the-fly and unpredictable, plus you just don’t know exactly what these teams are saying. You have a certain idea of what and how, but you never know for sure.”

“I’m trying to stay even-keeled because I don’t want to get too ahead of myself. I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself, try not to get too excited about it,” Brock added.

During this past season with the Ragin’ Cajuns in Lafayette, Brock hit .315 with a team-high 11 home runs with 65 runs batted in 64 games. The catcher posted career-highs in on base percentage (.435), slugging percentage (.559) and hits (67), while walking just 11 times fewer than he struck out.

The Buster Posey Watch List candidate ranked among the Sun Belt Conference leaders in average, slugging percentage, on-base percentage, RBI, doubles (17) and sacrifice flies (6). The junior ranked among the top 5 in the SBC in total chances, putouts and runners caught stealing. Brock finished tied for third on the team with 18 multi-hit games and was the team leader with 17 multi-RBI games. He started in 63 of Louisiana’s 65 games behind the plate and blasted three of the Ragin’ Cajuns five grand slams in 2023. The stats are all higher than his marks during the 2022 season, despite seeing only

12 more plate appearances this year versus last, something Brock attributes to the work he’s put in on the diamond.

“I think it’s just a result of the process,” Brock said. “My first two years, I don’t like making excuses, but COVID, man, that hurt my development. Not being able to get those at bats, get that exposure playing against this competition, that hurts. I had like 45-50 at bats my freshman year before we got cut short, otherwise who knows how many chances I would have gotten,” Brock said. “Plus, I was supposed to play summer ball in California. That kind of stunted my development, and that led into my second year where I underperformed in the Fall.”

Brock said it was difficult to earn the trust of his coaching staff after missing out on so many opportunities to grow within the game early in his collegiate career.

“That’s not his fault, that’s absolutely my fault and nobody else’s,” Brock said of not being put in big situations early on. “The following summer after my second year, I went and played summer ball up in the Northwoods League in Wisconsin, and I got x-amount of at bats and games behind the dish playing. That kind of followed into the fall, and I had a great fall and coach named me starter.

“Even when he named me starter, it’s not like I was torching balls off the wall right off the bat,” Brock said. “I ended up kind of figuring it out a little bit and I ran with it, but that led into me being able to repeat it this past year.”

Brock credited a lot of his positive experience in college to the coaching staff and players in Lafayette, also adding he expects them to remain a big part of his life as attendees of his wedding and other big life events.

“This program, I can’t thank this coaching staff enough,” Brock said of ULL. “With everything they’ve done for me, I mean I look up to (Head Coach Matt Deggs) and (Associate Head Coach Seth Thibodeaux) and (Assistant Coach Jake Wells) and all the coaches. Coach Deggs, I look at him as a mentor. He’s a good role model that I have. I’m grateful I was able to be a part of his life. “Playing for him was just tremendous,” Brock added.

“Not only for my baseball ability, but to grow as a man. It was a great experience, and I can’t thank them enough.”

The 2019 Fulshear grad said one of his favorite memories of his time in college ball was winning the Sun Belt Conference Tournament in 2022.

“Being able to dog-pile, it was a very high-stakes scenario,” Brock said. “We were up by one, they had the bases loaded with their best player up. He flew out and we dog-piled and that was pretty surreal. It was definitely one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, but hopefully I get more of those.”

Brock also listed off hitting a home run to silence the rowdy crowd in College Station against Texas A&M and beating Texas Christian last season as highlights in his college career. As far as the Rangers taking him, Brock said they’re getting a player with plenty of perspective.

“They’re getting a player that’s seen both sides of this sport,” Brock said. “I’ve faced adversity in my life and in my career. This is a sport of failure, and I’ve definitely seen that side of it.

“I’ve also seen the upside of it, being on top of the world and playing at regionals, being blessed with the opportunity to play in front of crowds of 5,000, 6,000, 7,000 or more,” Brock added.

“So they’re getting a hard worker that’s kind of had the experience of playing in front of crowds and scouts. I’m not worried too much about what they think of me, I’m just going out there and playing the game I love.”

Brock became the first Fulshear Charger in history to be selected by an MLB club, fitting for the first Charger to sign to play baseball with a NCAA DI school.

“That would be pretty awesome,” Brock said of potentially becoming the first drafted Fulshear graduate before the draft started. “I’ve lived in Fulshear since I was five, back when it was a one-way highway going to a small little town. Now, it’s just grown progressively every year and it’s awesome to see.

“If I was little Julian in high school, I would love someone to look up to, especially on the baseball side of things,” Brock added. “If I had someone else from my high school that was playing in the big leagues, or be drafted, that would be a good pinpoint of what I want to emulate. As a little kid, having someone to look up to that’s not your father or brother, that’s pretty cool.”

Brock said he rode out the draft with his close family and friends around him.

“It would be a surreal moment,” Brock said of getting drafted. “Being together with my family, it’s just going to be intimate with my family. They’ve sacrificed a lot, obviously. Everything from driving me and flying me everywhere, so I’m very excited for that.”

The hopeful pro, who grew up rooting for the Houston Astros, said he didn’t have to think hard to envision his dream scenario for the Draft.

“Being an Astros guy, you know that would be an awesome experience,” Brock said. “Not even just that they’re the hometown team, but their AA and AAA affiliates are both in Texas. So that would be awesome, to be playing close to home before I even get to the Big Leagues, but obviously I don’t get to make that choice.”

While he won’t start his career in the Astros’ system, Brock can join an organization with the Round Rock Express and Frisco RoughRiders in Texas, with both High-A and Single-A in North Carolina. Rookie ball is played in Arizona.

Fulshear High School alum Julian Brock, middle, poses with the late former University of Louisiana-Lafayette baseball coach Tony Robichaux (right) and former assistant coach Jeremy Talbot (left) after committing to play baseball for the Ragin Cajuns July 17, 2018. Brock, who graduated from ULL in May, was selected in the eighth round (231st overall) by the Texas Rangers in the Major League Baseball Draft.

Interim no more — Grady elevated to lead Chargers

story & photo by NICK IRENE | nirene@fbherald.com

Coach Emmanuel Grady was officially promoted to head coach for the Fulshear Chargers’ basketball program this summer, shedding his interim title. Campus Coordinator Nick Codutti expressed his enthusiasm for Grady’s appointment and looked forward to witnessing his first full season coaching the team.

“As the campus coordinator, I can confidently say that Coach Grady’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and we are thrilled to have him at the helm of our basketball program,” Codutti said. “His leadership, vision, and passion for the game have already had a positive impact on our student-athletes, and we look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of our program under his guidance.”

Grady initially joined Fulshear as an assistant to former Head Coach Jeremy Cunningham. However, Cunningham was dismissed on Jan. 23 during his inaugural season due to UIL violations, as stated by district officials. Grady was then thrust into the interim role.

Despite the challenges, Grady steered the Chargers through a successful stretch, securing a 7-2 record during his interim tenure. The Chargers’ losses incurred in a Valentine’s Day game against Marshall — a team that eventually qualified for the regional finals — and in the area round playoff game against Port Arthur Memorial on Feb. 24.

Under Grady’s leadership, one noteworthy achievement was the Chargers’ advancing in their first postseason game since 2020. They emerged victorious with a decisive 66-51 win over Sharpstown in the bi-district round on Feb. 21. The Chargers wrapped up the 2022-23 season with a second-place finish in District 20-5A, boasting a 12-2 record and an overall 18-18 performance.

Grady’s appointment as head coach marks the fourth transition of leadership for the team, following the tenures of Brent Nixon, Jason Griffin, and Cunningham.

Fort Bend Junior Service League recruiting new members

The Fort Bend Junior Service League is announcing the opening of its annual recruitment drive for the 2023-2024 league year. The organization is seeking women 21 and older interested in community service, fellowship, and philanthropy. FBJSL will also be hosting multiple recruitment events over the summer where potential new members can learn more about the League. Individuals who are interested can access the membership application at www. fbjsl.org.

Interview practicum preps

TSTC students for job hunt

Students sat down nervously across a table from coaches prepped to ask them questions. At the start of a 30-minute timer, the interviews began.

More than 40 Texas State Technical College students worked on their interview skills over two days at a recent interview practicum held at TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus.

The days were split into two sessions each, with students rotating between interview coaches three times.

“I’ve received a lot of positive feedback,” said Isaiah Albright, an Electrical Lineworker and Management Technology student working toward his associate degree. “Speaking for everyone here, we were all nervous starting, but now it really feels like I’m being prepared for an actual interview.”

Each of the students brought with them resumes that they had prepared with the help of TSTC Career Services representatives. While some students were interviewed in pairs due to the large number of them, each practice interview was treated as much like a real one as possible.

The coaches, a mix of TSTC staff and faculty in addition to industry representatives, asked broad questions about whatever industry the students are training for.

One of the coaches on the second day was Sarah Woods. She is a student in the HVAC Technology program working toward a certificate of completion and an associate degree. After being interviewed on day one, she volunteered to do the interviewing on day two. With a background working in the HVAC industry, she felt a need to help other students prepare to enter the workforce.

“I feel like I’m contributing and helping provide a more realistic response for what employers want,” Woods said. “I really try to help them (the students) think outside the box.”

With most of the students in attendance being close to graduation, it was a good opportunity for them to prepare before having to job hunt.

Kent Weed, a Career Services representative, said sharpening interview skills is key to obtaining a good job.

“We try to encourage students to let us help them be prepared for interviews,” Weed said. “Even outside of this event, we do one-onone interviews with those who are close to graduating. If they are driving on the way to (an interview), we tell them they can call and we’ll ask them questions to help calm them and feel more prepared.”

Registration for TSTC’s fall semester is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.

Photo Courtesy Of TSTC | Students at TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus work on their interview skills with coaches from both TSTC and industry partners.

New Fulshear Head Basketball Coach Emmanuel Grady discusses strategies with his Chargers during the area round playoff game against Port Arthur Memorial on Feb. 21. Grady, at the time, was the interim coach.

2023 Fort Bend County Fair entertainment lineup released

The Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo Association announced the six musical acts to entertain and energize the community this fall during the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo running Sept. 29 - Oct. 8.

The fair’s most notable acts include famous country star Tracy Byrd and Grammy-winning swing band Asleep at the Wheel. Byrd, who performs on Oct. 7, has released numerous award-nominated albums throughout his two-decade career. Some of his No. 1 hits include “Holdin’ Heaven,” “Watermelon Crawl,” and “The Keeper of the Stars.” Asleep at the Wheel was formed in 1970 and has won 10 Grammys throughout an illustrious career. Popular songs include “The Letter That Johnny Walker Read,” “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie,” and “Route 66.”

Jennifer Williams, president of the Fort Bend County Fair Association, and Barbara Robertson, spokesperson for the Fort Bend County Fair, spoke excitedly about the 2023 lineup.“Here at the Fort Bend County Fair, with the artists we bring, you can truly enjoy a lot of different types of music,” Robertson said. “I think our board really worked hard to bring a lot of different artists where people will find who they like.”

Houston-born and raised country artist Josh Ward will open the 10-day festivities on Sept. 29. Ward makes his second appearance at the fair since 2012 and has had seven consecutive No. 1 hit singles in Texas, including “Together,” “Change My Mind,” and “Broken Heart.”

Local favorites, the Josh Abbott Band, will play on Sept. 30. The Lubbock-based band has sold more than 300,000 albums and is best known for their songs “Settle Me Down,” “Oh, Tonight,” and “She’s Like Texas.”

Grammy-nominated La Energía Norteña will grace the stage on Oct. 1. The Dallas-based group, known for its Norteño and Regional Mexican music, has gained a significant following since its formation in 2010. The band is best known for their songs “Me Dejé Llevar,” “Hasta El Último Día,” and “Tú No Eres Nada.” Oklahoma-based Southall rounds out the lineup and will perform on Oct. 6. Notable songs include “Why” and “Clean Slate.”

Tickets are now on sale at fortbendcountyfair.com.

Second Street Brass to perform summer concert

Second Street Brass will perform a selection of light-hearted tunes in Richmond on Aug. 12.

From 2-3 p.m. in the meeting room of the George Memorial Library at 1001 Golfview Drive in Richmond, Second Street Brass will entertain the audience with songs from popular movie themes and folk songs to jazz classics and traditional hymns put to modern adaptations.

Formed in 2013, the musical ensemble has been performing in the Rosenberg area at fundraising events, private parties, and for CAST Theatrical Company for several years. All the musicians are also members of the Rosenberg Symphonic Band.

The summer concert performance is free and open to the public. For more information visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, or call George Memorial Library at 281-342-4455 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.

In addition to the Second Street Brass’ summer concert, George Memorial Library offers more free monthly programs for children. The library regularly presents a variety of free children’s programs, adult computer classes, book clubs, and special programs for people of all ages each month. All programs are free and open to the public. For more information, visit Fort Bend County Libraries website at www. fortbend.lib.tx.us or call George Memorial Library (281-342-4455) or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS:

Craft packets will be given out at the end of each program, so that children may take them home to enjoy. The library announced Pajama Night Story Time, After-School Breaks, and Creative Connections will resume in September.

Family Story Time

When: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. in the Meeting Room. (The program will not be held Aug. 2, 3, 9 and 10).

What: Families with children of all ages will enjoy stories, songs, and action rhymes. Aug.16 and 17: Bedtime; Aug. 23 and 24: Music & Sounds; and Aug.30 and 31:Alphabet/Counting

YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS:

Intended for teens in grades 9-12.

YA Game Night

When: Thursdays, Aug. 3 and 17, 6-7 p.m. in Room 2A.

What: A variety of board games, video games, card games, and chess sets will be available, but those attending are welcome to bring their own favorite games, as well. Snacks will be provided.

Young Adult Advisory Council

When: Thursday, Aug. 10, 6 -7 p.m. in Room 2C.

What: Teens entering grades 9-12 who are interested in an exciting new leadership opportunity and volunteer service hours are invited to attend this meeting of the Young Adult Advisory Council. Members will have a chance to share ideas about library programs, help out at events, give suggestions for teen services, books, and movies, and meet new people.

Information Literacy: Read Between the Lines

When: Thursday, Aug. 31, 6-7 p.m., Room 2C

What: Teens will learn how to locate, evaluate, and use information to make informed decisions and participate effectively in a world filled with fake news.

ADULT PROGRAMS:

When: Thursday, Aug.17, 5:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 2C.

What: This month’s topic is “Showing vs. Telling.” From beginning blogger to published novelist, writers of all genres and experience levels are welcome to write, share, learn, support, network, and critique each other’s work. Writing prompts, brainteasers, and brief exercises will be available to ignite the imaginations of any and all wordsmiths who wish to hone their craft. This program is recommended for adults and teens aged 14 and up.

ADULT BOOK CLUBS

Heavy Inks Graphic Novel Book Club

When: Saturday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m.-noon, Room 2B

Tracy Byrd

Josh Abbot Band

Josh Ward

Southhall

Asleep at the Wheel

La Energia Nortenia

What: Readers of all ages who enjoy illustrated novels and comic books are invited to join this book club specifically for graphic-novel enthusiasts. For August, readers will discuss Giant Days, Volumes I-III, created by John Allison. This title is available in print; call the library to check availability of additional print copies. This book club meets on the third Saturday of every month.

Book Break Book Club

When: Thursday, Aug. 17, noon- 1 p.m., Room 2A

What: A variety of popular fiction is discussed in this book club, which meets on the third Thursday of every month. Those attending may bring a lunch. This month, readers will discuss Rules for Visiting, a novel written by Jessica Francis Kane. This selection is available in print and digitally as an ebook and e-audiobook on OverDrive/Libby; call the library to check availability of additional print copies.

Use It or Lose It: there’s an expiration date on a young boy’s voice

Audition for the Fort Bend Boys Choir

by TIANA MORTIMER, FBBCTX Executive Director

So many activities … so little time. That is often a parent’s lament when choosing activities for their children. Can we fit in swimming or baseball when we already have music lessons and soccer?

Here is a helpful hint, especially when it comes to boys – keep the music lessons. And if that young boy loves to sing? Schedule an audition with the Fort Bend Boys Choir now.

Did you know there is an expiration date on a young boy’s voice?

Admittedly, boys can sing anywhere, anytime. However, the unchanged treble voice of a young boy, you know, the one that is high and pure and sounds like an angel — that voice comes with an expiration date. You will not know exactly when it will change, but that change is inevitable. Hormones slowly take over, the voice starts to crack and deepen and that lovely, unchanged singing voice is gone forever.

There are many lost opportunities for vocally talented boys when parents overlook choir activities or put them off for something else.

The Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas, a nonprofit boy choir organization, has been making a difference, one boy at a time for 42 years. They are holding auditions by special appointment throughout the summer for young boys with an unchanged voice. The good news is that no experience is required.

Boys from all over the Greater Houston area, not just Fort Bend, can reap the benefits of a unique music education not found anywhere else. The fall 2023 season kicks off Aug. 17, meeting every Thursday evening at the First United Methodist Church-Missouri City. To audition, boys should be around eight years old or going into the third grade when school starts. For boys ages six and seven, the Fort Bend Boys Choir offers Music Magic, an eight-week music enrichment program and no auditions are required. This class meets on Tuesdays starting in October.

Don’t let a young boy’s voice go unheard! Schedule an audition today.

Contact the Fort Bend Boys Choir office at 281-240-3800 or visit fbbctx.org/auditions/ for additional details.

Cuisine Corner

1 clove garlic, crushed

2 tablespoons white sugar

1 tablespoon salt

1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin

1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper

½ teaspoon chili powder, or to taste

1 dash hot pepper sauce, or to taste

DIRECTIONS

Herb ‘n Honey Cucumber Tomato Salad

INGREDIENTS

3 cucumbers, peeled and sliced

2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (cherry tomatoes can serve as a substitute)

2 green onions, sliced thin

8 leaves fresh basil, chopped

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

½ cup seasoned rice wine vinegar

½ cup honey

DIRECTIONS

Layer cucumbers, tomatoes, green onions, and basil in a bowl; top with feta cheese. Drizzle rice wine vinegar over the surface; top with honey.

1Combine beans, bell peppers, corn, and red onion in a large bowl.

2Whisk olive oil, vinegar, cilantro, lime juice, lemon juice, garlic, sugar, salt, cumin, and black pepper together in a small bowl. Season with chili powder and hot sauce.

3Pour dressing over bean mixture and toss well. Refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour. Serve cold.

aside.

2Place 2 cups water and quinoa in a saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and liquid has been absorbed, about 15 minutes.

3Meanwhile, whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, garlic, salt, and black pepper together in a large bowl.

4Remove quinoa from heat, then immediately add 1/2 of the vinegar dressing while fluffing quinoa with a fork; reserve remaining dressing. Cover and refrigerate quinoa until cool, at least 1 hour.

5Stir goats cheese, arugula, green onions, beets, and remaining dressing into cooled quinoa mixture. Toss lightly before serving.

Mexican Bean Salad

INGREDIENTS

1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed & drained

1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed & drained

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 (10 oz) package frozen corn kernels, thawed

1 red onion, diced

½ cup olive oil

½ cup red wine vinegar

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Quinoa Beet Salad

INGREDIENTS

½ pound beets, peeled and sliced

2 cups water

1 cup red quinoa

½ cup olive oil

½ cup red wine vinegar

1 ½ teaspoons white sugar

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

5 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

3 ounces arugula, chopped

2 green onions, sliced

DIRECTIONS

1Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer; cover pan and bring water to a boil. Add beets, cover pan, and steam until just tender, 7 to 10 minutes. Set

Spinach and Strawberry Salad

INGREDIENTS

2 bunches spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces

4 cups sliced strawberries

½ cup vegetable oil

½ cup white sugar

¼ cup white wine vinegar

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

¼ teaspoon paprika

DIRECTIONS

1Toss together spinach and strawberries in a large bowl.

2Whisk oil, sugar, vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and paprika together in a medium bowl. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat.

lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes. Pour meat mixture into the bowl; mix well. Top with salsa and sour cream.

Stacked Tomato and Burrata

INGREDIENTS

1 vine-ripened tomato, cored and cut into 1/2-inch slices

flaked sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

¼ cup burrata cheese, or more to taste

1 tablespoon torn fresh basil leaves, or to taste

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

Place a tomato slice on a plate; season with sea salt and black pepper. Spread burrata cheese over tomato slice and top with torn basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil. Top with another tomato slice. Repeat cheese and tomato layering process with remaining slices, finishing with a tomato slice.

NOTE: Mozzarella cheese can be substituted for the burrata cheese, and the balsamic vinegar can be drizzled between the layers.

Taco Salad

INGREDIENTS

1 pound lean ground beef

1 (16 ounce) can chili beans

1 (16 ounce) bottle French dressing

1 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix

1 (14.5 ounce) package tortilla chips

1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 cup chopped tomatoes

½ cup prepared salsa

4 tablespoons sour cream

DIRECTIONS

1Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease. Stir in chili beans, French-style dressing, and seasoning mix. Fill the empty dressing bottle 2/3 full of water and add to the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.

2Crush the bag of chips, open the bag, and toss crushed chips into a large bowl. Add

Watermelon Salad

INGREDIENTS

¾ cup halved, thinly sliced red onion

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 ½ quarts seeded, cubed watermelon

¾ cup crumbled feta cheese

½ cup pitted black olive halves

1 cup chopped fresh mint

2 tablespoons olive oil

DIRECTIONS

1Place the onion slices in a small bowl with the lime juice. The acid of the lime will mellow the flavor of the raw onion. Let stand for 10 minutes.

2In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, black olives, onions with the lime juice, and mint. Drizzle olive oil over it all, and toss to blend.

Avocado Green Goddess Dressing

INGREDIENTS

1 avocado, peeled and pitted

1 cup mayonnaise

5 anchovy filets, rinsed and chopped

2 tablespoons chopped green onion

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 clove garlic, chopped salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Combine avocado, mayonnaise, anchovy, green onion, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender; process until smooth. Transfer to a jar with a lid and chill for 24 hours before serving.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

INGREDIENTS

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

½ cup white balsamic vinegar

1 clove crushed garlic

1 teaspoon ground mustard

1 pinch salt

ground black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, and mustard powder. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Stir in minced fresh herbs if desired.

Caesar Dressing

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ cups olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

¼ cup lemon juice

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons anchovy paste

½ teaspoon mustard powder

4 cloves garlic, crushed

3 tablespoons sour cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS

In a food processor or blender, combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, mustard, garlic, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Process until smooth. Pour into a glass container, seal, and refrigerate until ready to use.

Cucumber Dressing

INGREDIENTS

1 cup plain yogurt

½ cucumber, peeled and finely chopped

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 clove garlic, minced

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground white pepper

DIRECTIONS

In a blender, combine the yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and refrigerate until chilled.

Ranch Dressing

INGREDIENTS

1 cup mayonnaise

½ cup sour cream

½ teaspoon dried chives

½ teaspoon dried parsley

½ teaspoon dried dill weed

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

⅛ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper together in a large bowl until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

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Fort Bend Master Gardeners education center earns award

story & photo by NICK IRENE | nirene@fbherald.com

The Fort Bend Master Gardeners have earned first-place honors from the state for their Vegetable Garden Enhancement Project.

The thrilling news was announced during its annual luncheon at The Range in Rosenberg in late June.

Louie McDaniel, the Texas Master Gardener Volunteer Ambassador, presented the Search for Excellence Award to the Fort Bend chapter in the Teaching Site category.

The award was secured at the Master Gardeners State Conference in May. This category acknowledges a project that establishes a new or significantly improves an existing physical location for educational purposes, showcasing or sharing the best horticulture practices.

The teaching site must be fixed or permanent; examples include a demonstration garden; a school or community garden; a help desk; and/or a permanent educational display at an extension office.

Carol Gaas, President of Fort Bend Master Gardeners, was grateful to the state organization for the honor privilege.

“We very much appreciate that we had the opportunity to create this garden because it impacts the citizens of the Fort Bend County area with all of the fresh produce we produce to give to our local food banks,” Gaas said. “It was a culmination of efforts by different master gardeners to make this happen and the citizens who have supported us through our fundraising efforts to create the garden.”

The garden comprises 17 cedar planters growing over 30 varieties of vegetables, an herb garden, a native plants garden, and a 625-square-foot pavilion complete with a 1,625-gallon rainwater irrigation system. The gardeners cultivate tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, peppers, and other fresh produce.

Master Gardener Karen Zurawski further mentioned that the gardeners harvested 230 pounds of food to donate to the Richmond food pantry. The gardeners anticipate donating approximately 1,500 pounds of fresh vegetables each year, hoping to reach 2,000 pounds soon.

Gaas encourages the community to visit the education center on Band Road to witness the garden firsthand.

“We don’t want to be the best-kept secret,” Gaas said. “We want people to come out and see this, learn from what we are planting, and try it themselves in their backyards.”

For more information, please visit fbmg.org.

From left are Fort Bend Master Gardeners President Carol Gaas, County Extension Director Dr. Amy Ressler, Texas Master Gardener Volunteer Ambassador Louie McDaniel, Program Coordinator Brandry Rader and County Horticulture Extension Agent Boone Holladay.

Texas Master Naturalist training class opening

Become a member of the Coastal Prairie Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist program by enrolling in the Fall 2023 training class on Aug. 19 from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

The Coastal Prairie Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist is looking for people interested in making a contribution to the beneficial management of Texas natural resources by being actively involved in the chapter, which covers Fort Bend, Waller and Wharton counties.

The Fall 2023 training class will begin with an in-person meeting on Aug. 19, with the other classes being held Tuesday evenings via Zoom and field sessions taking place on Saturdays. The program lasts approximately 13 weeks with about 14 sessions.

The chapter encourages early registration because “classes fill up fast” and only 24 spots are open to registrants.

After completing the initial training, the candidate must provide at least 40 hours of volunteer service in the Fort Bend, Waller and Wharton communities (up to 20 hours may be completed outside of those counties) to become a Certified Texas Master Naturalist.

Candidates will also obtain eight additional hours of Advanced Training.

The course fee will be due when the candidate’s application is approved. As part of the course fee, each student will receive the textbook “Texas Master Naturalist Curriculum.” Couples who share a textbook will get a discount.

To register online visit txmn.org/coastal.

Living Sustainably Club: Design for Abundance: Permaculture Basics

The Fort Bend County Libraries’ Living Sustainably Club will meet 6-7 p.m. on Aug. 21 to discuss permaculture.

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 self-sufficient. An approach to agriculture 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.

The Living Sustainably Club meetings are live-streamed through Webex so the public can participate virtually and interact with others in real-time. Guest speakers will share information on various topics that focus on discussing, educating, and demonstrating how everyone can live sustainably within a budget. Registration required. Call 281-633-4726.

OSFree Fall Garden Tips

Tn Saturday, Aug. 26 at the George Memorial Library, library staff will provide an overview of fall vegetable gardening. Hear about when to plant vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and broccoli. The discussion will be held from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. in Room 2A. For more information visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

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