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©2023 Greatwood Monthly. All Rights Reserved. Greatwood Monthly is a sister publication of Fulshear Living Monthly, West Fort Bend Living Monthly, Pecan Grove Monthly and is a publication of the Fort Bend Herald. Our publishing headquarters is 1902 S. Fourth Street, Rosenberg Texas 77471.

New work produced by local cartoonist Jordan Lockett in 2022.

Jordan Lockett told The Greatwood Monthly that he "likes to create stories that anyone can relate to." Visit www.fbherald.com for a look at the comics he shared last year.

Jordan always considered himself an illustrator and describes being a cartoonist as a “fast and freeform art.”

JORDAN LOCKETT

The Cartoonist

Because a cartoonist “can create without limits,” Jordan considers this form of art “the greatest form of escapism.”

"Herman Horse" was Jordan's first comic character.

SEPTE MBER

Greatwood Veterinary Hospital

At Greatwood Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated to providing excellent and compassionate care for your furry, family friends. We offer full veterinary services in our new, spacious 6,500 square foot facility. Our experienced and caring veterinarians and staff strive to provide the best quality care available for your pets, with an emphasis on client education and an understanding of your pet’s specific needs. We would like to be partners with you in ensuring your pet’s good health and well-being. In addition to full medical, surgical, and dental veterinary care, we also offer boarding, grooming, and cremation services. Greatwood Veterinary Hospital has been providing affordable and quality veterinary care to the Fort Bend area for over 15 years. It is our hope that we can meet all your animal’s health care needs with our warm, friendly, and knowledgeable services.

To make an appointment for your pet or for more information, please call us at (281) 342-7770 or visit us at 401 Crabb River Road in Richmond.

The Young Men’s Service League Sugar Land Chapter chose Parks Youth Ranch to receive this year’s “Ultimate Gift” of a butterfly garden created over a two-day philanthropic event. Through YMSL-Sugar Land Chapter, 44 high school-aged young men and their mothers dedicated 16 hours and $1,500 worth of donated materials and supplies to beautify the landscape. Read more on page 10.

Talk of the Town

Sugar Land earns top score in national park system index

Trust for Public Land’s data-driven analysis of their “best cities” for parks is a big win for Sugar Land, city officials announced.

The city of Sugar Land landed one of the top scores in Texas in a national index of local park systems in the 100 largest U.S. cities.

The nonprofit ParkScore ranking rates city green spaces based on access, equity, amenities, acreage and investment.

TPL aims to help create parks and protect public land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. They work with communities across the country to ensure that everyone has a great park within a 10-minute walk of their home.

As of 2023, 83 percent of Sugar Land residents were within a 10 minute walk to a park. The data includes city parks, homeowner association parks and elementary school playgrounds.

Parks provide an important community need. They serve as destinations for people to gather, enhance neighborhoods’ sense of community and facilitate healthy lifestyles.

Sugar Land parks are also important destination venues that attract regional visitors and contribute to vibrant local businesses – providing important sales tax revenue that helps support one the state’s lowest tax rates while providing the high level of services

citizens expect.

The ParkScore ranking cited investments and amenities for Sugar Land’s success. Recent offerings include a new pump track at The Crown Festival Park; the completion of Brazos River Park Phase III, which included a new pavilion, a playground and the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park; enhancements at Cullinan Park; and more.

The amenities are part of the city’s 27 parks, which encompass 1,174 acres of developed parkland and more than 35 miles of trails, as well as the Imperial Park Recreation Center, T.E. Harman Center, Municipal Pool at City Park and many additional city facilities.

“The TPL ParkScore includes a helpful mapping tool that allows us to easily determine what areas lack convenient walkability to parks or trails from homes and offices,” said Director of the Parks and Recreation Joe Chesser. “This highlights where we need to focus efforts for future parks or greenspace acquisition. We would love to have 100 percent of the Sugar Land community within a 10 minute walk to a park.”

To learn more about Sugar Land parks, visit www.SugarLandTX. gov/Parks or follow @SugarLandParks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Young men build butterfly garden as 'ultimate gift' for Parks Youth Ranch

Parks Youth Ranch has been chosen by the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) Sugar Land Chapter to receive this year’s “Ultimate Gift” of a breathtaking butterfly garden created over a two-day philanthropic event.

Through the YMSL-Sugar Land Chapter, a total of 44 high schoolaged young men and their mothers dedicated 16 hours and $1500 donated materials and supplies in support of Parks Youth Ranch

to help beautify the landscape and serve as a space for tranquility, education and observation for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The young men and their moms that participated in the community service project are part of the Sugar Land Chapter of the national nonprofit organization, Young Men’s Service League. This local chapter is comprised of 79 9-12th grade young men and their moms from the Sugar Land/Richmond/ Missouri City area.

“Parks Youth Ranch is honored to have been chosen as the recipient of the YMSL Sugar Land Chapter’s 2023 Ultimate Gift. The Chapter purchased the materials, built a raised bed, and planted dozens of plants,” said Parks Youth Ranch’s Development Officer Angela Boepple. “This butterfly garden has attracted many butterflies and added a beautiful space to our outdoor landscape.”

This special community project is YMSL- Sugar Land’s Chapter’s choice for their annual Ultimate Gift campaign. The YMSL Ultimate Gift is a multi-day philanthropic event dedicated to one philanthropy partner per year. The goal is to do something transformational for the philanthropy, something that it may otherwise not have had the manpower or resources to do for itself.

“Through the donation of time, labor and materials, our goal was to support Parks Youth Ranch’s efforts to continue beautifying the grounds of their 8-acre ranch, said Kathryn Self, YMSL Sugar Land’s Ultimate Gift Coordinator. “Through this ultimate gift project, we have

built something that can be enjoyed by the young people that live onsite, the staff and as well as visitors for years to come.”

The raised bed of the butterfly garden is just under 150 sq ft and 22 inches deep and not only provides a beautiful aesthetic, but also supports the conservation of butterflies, benefits the environment as butterflies are important pollinators, and provides educational value by bringing an awareness of nature to those who observe it as well as joy and relaxation. This is especially important given that Parks Youth Ranch supports children in crisis and the therapeutic effects of nature is an important element in the nonprofit’s mission of support, YMSL officials said.

Parks Youth Ranch opened its doors in 2011 to provide emergency shelter, counseling, and additional services to abused and neglected youth ages 7-17. The ranch sits on eight acres of land and has two fully stocked fishing ponds — providing children in crisis with the therapeutic effects of nature and the aesthetics of a family-style ranch home. Park Youth Ranch staff strive to provide the youth they serve with all of their physical, emotional, and educational needs.

Since its inception, YMSL members have served over 2 million community service hours. In addition to service, as part of its fouryear comprehensive program, YMSL teaches leadership and life skills to help develop our young men into capable, confident, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow. www.YMSL.org

Volunteers needed for Texas Adopt-A-Beach 2023 Coastwide Fall Cleanup

Volunteers are encouraged to participate in the 2023 Texas

“It was truly an honor to work alongside thousands of volunteers to remove over 73,000 pounds of trash from the Texas coast during the Spring Adopt-A-Beach Coastwide Cleanup in April,” said Texas Land Commissioner Dr. Dawn Buckingham.

“This fall, I challenge Texans and volunteers from across the country to help make the upcoming coastwide cleanup another resounding success by seizing this opportunity to show our appreciation and respect for Texas’ beaches, their ecosystems and our coastal communities. Through the GLO’s Adopt-A-Beach-Program we can continue to build a better future for our beautiful Texas coastline.”

The Adopt-A-Beach program began in the fall of 1986 when 2,800 volunteers picked up 124 tons of trash. Since then, more than 567,000 Texas Adopt-A-Beach volunteers have picked up nearly 10,000 tons of trash from Texas beaches.

To sign up as a volunteer visit TexasAdoptABeach.org.

Texas Adopt-A-Beach via Instagram | “Our #TexasBeaches are beautiful [...] Volunteers are essential to keeping the Texas coastal waterways safe! ” posted Texas AAB on social media. Follow Texas Adopt-A-Beach on Facebook or Instagram @ texasadoptabeach.

Golf Fore Autism tournament set for Oct. 2

The 8th Annual Golf Fore Autism, presented by Landmark Charities at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land is set for Oct.

2. Proceeds benefit the local autism nonprofit, Hope For Three which provides resources and support to families with members living with autism.

Golfing and networking are only part of the fun while taking on both courses, doubling the impact of raising funds and awareness.

The tournament will feature creative contests at various holes, lunch, food on the courses (thanks to Lopez Mexican Restaurant and Smokehouse BBQ), live and silent auctions, raffles, wine pull, and more. The dinner and awards ceremony will immediately follow the tournament.

“Participating in this golf tournament can change a child’s future along with the well-being of their family,” said Jessica Jubin, Hope For Three Philanthropy Director. “Funds raised aid in accessing life-changing treatments and therapies families may not otherwise acquire due to high-cost or inaccessibility.”

Event sponsors, OCuSOFT, Regions Bank, Trusted Senior Specialists, GFL Environmental, Cooltime Services, Albemarle Foundation, Liberty Engine-South Texas, and more supporters offer individual play for $150, a team of four is $600, and numerous sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available.

Hope For Three is accepting all donations or bottles of wine valued at $50, or above, for the wine pull. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with breakfast sponsored by First Watch, The Daytime Cafe. The tournament starts at 11 a.m. To register a team, sign up as a sponsor, volunteer, or donate, visit www.hopeforthree.org.

Simpson named new executive director of Fort Bend County Meals on Wheels

Fort Bend Seniors

Meals on Wheels announced the appointment of Doug Simpson as the organization’s new executive director. He succeeds Judge Bob Hebert, who served as the executive director for the past four years.

Simpson brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to the community, making him an excellent choice to lead Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels into its next chapter of growth and impact.

“We are thrilled to welcome Doug,” said David Howard, FBS Board Chairman. “His impressive track record in nonprofit management and dedication to improving the lives of others aligns perfectly with our mission. With Doug’s guidance, we are confident that Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels will continue to thrive and expand its services to meet the growing needs of our aging population.”

As former Judge Bob Hebert transitions out of the executive director role, he leaves behind a legacy of significant achievements and positive impact on the lives of seniors in Fort Bend and Waller County. Under his leadership, the organization has witnessed unprecedented growth, streamlined operations, and strengthened community partnerships, enhancing its capacity to deliver meals and support services to those in need.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have served as the Executive Director of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels,” said Judge Bob Hebert. “It has been an honor to work alongside dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners who are deeply committed to providing essential services to our senior population. I have full confidence in Doug Simpson’s ability to lead the organization forward, and I wish him every success in this role.”

Tanya Justice | From left, Gordon Macintosh-Beatson, JD Hawk, George Shaw, and John Zera attend Golf Fore Autism annually and play in honor or Mr. Shaw’s autistic granddaughter, Daphne. He shared, “Someday I hope to start a trend where more folks put a picture of their special angels on their golf carts.” Daphne rides, in spirit, shot gun with her photo displayed front and center.

Old-Fashioned Onion Rings

INGREDIENTS

1 large Vidalia or other sweet onion

1 quart oil for frying, or as needed

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk, or as needed

1 large egg

¾ cup dry bread crumbs

⅛ teaspoon seasoned salt, or to taste

DIRECTIONS

1Slice onion into 1/4-inch-thick rings.

2Heat oil in a deep-fryer to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C). Place a wire rack over a sheet of aluminum foil.

3Prepare breading station by setting out 3 wide, shallow dishes. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in the first dish. Whisk milk and egg together in the second dish. Place bread crumbs in the third dish.

4Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, turning several times until fully coated with flour. Transfer to the egg mixture and use a fork to turn until coated. Lift onion with the fork and shake gently so excess liquid drips back into the dish. Place onion in the bread crumbs and turn several times to coat, scooping crumbs over the ring if necessary. Lift again with the fork, tap any excess bread crumbs back into the dish, and place on the wire rack while you prepare the remaining onion rings.

5Deep-fry 3 to 4 onion rings at a time in the preheated oil until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels while you deep-fry the remaining rings.

6Sprinkle with seasoning salt before serving

¼ teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

1Preheat the oven to 225 degrees F (105 degrees C). Lightly grease a rimmed baking pan.

2Combine egg white and water in a mixing bowl; beat until fluffy. Fold in pecans to coat evenly.

3Combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a shaker or cup with a lid. Dust pecans evenly with sugar mixture, then spread onto the prepared pan.

4Bake in the preheated oven, stirring every 15 minutes, until toasted and fragrant, about 1 hour. Cool pecans on the pan, then store in an airtight container.

½ cup minced onion

1 ½ cups water

½ cup tomato paste

½ cup white vinegar

½ cup brown sugar

2 ½ tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon dark molasses

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons whisky

1 ¼ teaspoons liquid smoke flavoring

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Old-Fashioned Roasted Pecans

INGREDIENTS

1 large egg white

1 tablespoon water

2 ¼ cups pecan halves

½ cup white sugar

1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Turkey Legs

INGREDIENTS

1 (2 liter) bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons hot sauce

1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 tablespoon black pepper

1 large sweet onion, sliced

4 turkey legs

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon steak seasoning

DIRECTIONS

1Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat, and lightly oil grate.

DIRECTIONS

1Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

2Cut each full rack of ribs in half to make 4 half racks. Season with salt and black pepper (more black pepper than salt); sprinkle 1 tablespoon ground chile pepper over meat. Wrap each half rack in aluminum foil.

3Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours and 30 minutes.

2

In a large pot, mix the lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage, sugar, hot sauce, red pepper, pepper, and onion. Place the turkey legs in the mixture, and bring to a boil. Cook 30 to 45 minutes, until the turkey has reached an internal temperature of 180 degrees F (80 degrees C).

3Remove onion slices from the mixture, and arrange on the prepared grill. Place turkey legs over the onions. Drizzle with honey, and season with steak seasoning. Cook, tuning once, 20 minutes, or until a crisp browned crust has formed on the turkey legs.

Grilled Baby Back Ribs

INGREDIENTS

2 (2 pound) slabs baby back pork ribs salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste

1 ½ tablespoons ground red chile pepper, divided

2 ¼ tablespoons vegetable oil

4Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir onion in hot oil for 5 minutes. Stir in water, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Add molasses, 2 teaspoons salt, garlic powder, whisky, remaining ½ tablespoon ground chile pepper, liquid smoke, onion powder, paprika, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered until sauce thickens, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Remove from heat and set sauce aside.

5Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil the grates.

6Remove wrapped ribs from the oven. Let stand for 10 minutes, then remove ribs from the foil.

7Cook ribs on the preheated grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Brush sauce on ribs while grilling, just before you serve them (adding sauce too early will burn ribs).

Candied Almonds

INGREDIENTS

1 cup white sugar

½ cup water

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 cups whole almonds

DIRECTIONS

1Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.

2Combine sugar, water, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil. Add almonds; cook and stir mixture until liquid evaporates and leaves a syrupy coating on almonds.

3Pour almonds onto the prepared baking sheet; use two forks to separate clumps and spread into an even layer. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes.

Vintage Lemonade

INGREDIENTS

5 lemons

1 ¼ cups white sugar

1 ¼ quarts water

DIRECTIONS

1Peel the rinds from the 5 lemons and cut them into 1/2 inch slices. Set the lemons aside.

2Place the rinds in a bowl and sprinkle the sugar over them. Let this stand for about one hour, so that the sugar begins to soak up the oils from the lemons.

3Bring water to a boil in a covered saucepan and then pour the hot water over the sugared lemon rinds. Allow this mixture to cool for 20 minutes and then remove the rinds.

4Squeeze the lemons into another bowl. Pour the juice through a strainer into the sugar mixture. Stir well, pour into pitcher and pop it in the fridge! Serve with ice cubes.

Strawberry Lemonade Shaved Ice

INGREDIENTS

6 tablespoons lemon juice

6 tablespoons white sugar

3 large fresh strawberries, finely chopped 21 large ice cubes

DIRECTIONS

1Mix lemon juice and sugar in a bowl until sugar is dissolved.

2Put strawberries in a strainer and place over the bowl. Mash berries against the strainer to extract their juice. Remove strainer and discard mashed berries. Mix strawberry juice with lemonade.

3Place ice cubes into a shaved ice machine or snow cone maker. Shave ice into serving bowls and pour strawberry-lemonade over top.

Fun fall-time lineup features a festival and more

“Fall” into some of Sugar Land’s most anticipated events that are on the horizon, said city officials about the upcoming festive, family-friendly and fun events in the Sugar Land community.

The city will lead planning efforts for the first-ever Parking Day experience on Friday, Sept. 15, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Sugar Land Town Square, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North. PARK(ing) Day is an annual international event where the public collaborates to temporarily transform parking spaces into small parks to demonstrate the value of parks and open spaces. This community event will reimagine public spaces, foster community and business engagement, and promote team building. Applications are available now and will be accepted throughout the month of August from community members ready to create a park out of a parking space for the day. There is no theme for PARK(ing) Day and imagination is encouraged.

A little more than a week later, Sugar Land Town Square will serve as the fall backdrop for the Sugar Land Fall Fest on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This festive event will include fall activities, an artisans market, food and entertainment, and an assortment of attractions. The main stage will energize viewers with upbeat music and dance performances. A family fun zone with additional activities will feature DIY art and craft projects facilitated by favorite Sugar Land businesses and community organizations.

Next up is the pups’ favorite event within the Parks Event Series, Yappy Hour. Featuring pet-friendly activities, music and a variety of food and beverages on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Pawm Springs Dog Park, located inside Sugar Land Memorial Park at 15300 University Blvd. Bring pets along for free activities and entertainment while grabbing a bite to eat.

Back by popular demand is the Sugar Land Haunted House to round out the fall season. The Imperial Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way, will transform into a Haunted House for the entire weekend of Friday-Sunday, Oct. 27-29. Don’t miss out on the fun and freight. Time and ticketing information will be made available soon.

For more information about events or to become an event sponsor, contact Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at 281275-2825 or visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/specialevents.Follow Sugar Land Parks and Recreation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @SugarLandParks.

Mosaic artwork extension on Brooks Street Bridge unveiled

The city of Sugar Land recently unveiled a major extension to Natural Rhythm by Houston-based artist Katy Antill, who was commissioned to design and install the continuation of her original work that was unveiled during the summer of 2021.

The mosaic is located on Brooks Street between State Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 90. The extension adds a total of 354 square feet of new ceramic tile to the bridge.

The project’s original selection panel evaluated the extension design to ensure the new mosaic is a seamless continuation of the previous artwork. Panelists were comprised of local residents and Sugar Land PARCS board members. The selection panel was impressed by the artist’s signature design to expand her original artwork which creates additional interest along nearby walking paths and provides an inviting opportunity for social media engagement and family photos.

Similar to the original artwork, the extension to Natural Rhythm depicts a day-to-night motif containing numerous species of flora

and fauna native to the Sugar Land area. The most recent addition incorporates 16 new species in total.

Natural Rhythm is part of the city’s ongoing public art program, an effort identified by citizens to enhance destination centers and public places that attract both visitors and residents.

“This public art project represents the continued implementation of our Public Art Program,” said Sugar Land Cultural Arts Manager Sha Davis. “It not only enhances the beauty of Sugar Land, but it builds our reputation as an art and cultural destination. It’s our goal to create memorable, meaningful places that are focal points for our community and enhance the appearance of our public facilities.

“Our Public Art Plan is designed to support our community on several levels such as helping businesses attract more customers, provide work for local artists and beautify our city for residents and visitors.”

The project is a component of Sugar Land’s Public Art Plan, a document approved by the City Council in November 2016. The plan outlines a vision and programmatic direction for public art in Sugar Land. Funding for the project comes from restricted revenue sources and does not include property taxes.

For more information about the artwork, email the Sugar Land Office of Environment and Neighborhood Services Cultural Arts Division at culturalarts@sugarlandtx.gov.

Cullinan Park ‘Hit Us with Your Best Shot!’ photo contest closes Sept. 30

Cullinan Park Conservancy invites photographers of all levels to submit photos to its annual photo contest.

The contest is in conjunction with the Conservancy’s 7th annual “Picnic for the Park” luncheon on Friday, October 20th, at Sweetwater Country Club. The photo contest opened in August and closes Friday, September 30.

“We always look forward to the beautiful photos submitted each year and are amazed at the talent. We know it is not easy for the judges to choose, and we

From left are Selection committee member Leon Anhaiser; Cultural Arts Foundation Board member Bridget Yeung; City Councilmembers Naushad Kermally, Stewart Jacobson and Carol K. McCutcheon; Antill; City Councilmember William Ferguson; resident Savannah Faubion; City Councilmember Suzanne Whatley; and Davis.

appreciate their thoughtful and experienced process for selecting the winners,” said Cullinan Park Conservancy President Keith Borgfeldt.

“We thank all the volunteers and the participants for helping make this contest a success, and we invite you to ‘hit us with your best shot.’”

Photographers may submit up to three total photos in the following categories: Birds; Wildlife; Flora (trees, flowers, plants), Landscapes, and Cell Phone Pictures (any subject).

First, second and third places for each category will be announced and promoted on social media. First-prize winners in each category will be awarded a $50 cash prize.

Thanks to photo contest sponsor Oxbow Advisors, a new platform is available this year to help gather, sort, and share photos with the judges of local photographers, park enthusiasts, and stakeholders of Cullinan Park.

Woobox will simplify the application process for participants allowing them to apply and submit photos easily on the Cullinan Park Conservancy website. It will also allow the public to vote on their favorite photo.

The winner of this “People’s Choice” poll will also receive a $50 cash prize.

Anyone can participate in the photo contest, and while there is no entry fee, all photographs must be taken at Cullinan Park, located just

north of Sugar Land Regional Airport on Highway 6 in Sugar Land. The photos may be taken at any time of year.

For complete details and contest rules, visit www.cullinanparkconservancy.org/contest.

Annual spelling bee supports literacy organization’s efforts

The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County announced that “the beehive is buzzing” in preparation for the 14th annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee, set for 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Quail Valley Golf Course.

Presented by CenterPoint Energy & Houston Federal Credit Union, the spelling bee benefits the Literary Council, a local nonprofit that provides literacy classes and resources through thousands of volunteer tutors.

Last year, the bee raised more than $29,000 to provide more than 13,000 hours of instruction to over 400 students in our community who enrolled in English as a Second Language, US Citizenship, High School Equivalency or Adult Basic Literacy courses.

“We would greatly appreciate your support of the Literacy Council and the students we serve,” nonprofit officials said.

For more information visit www.ftbendliteracy.org.

LCISD dedicates school in honor of influential businessman

story and photo by BRANDON NORVELL | bnorvell@fbherald.com

Lamar Consolidated Independent School District dedicated its newest elementary campus in honor of a late businessman who believed education was the key to success. Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr. Elementary is located at 26229 Fulshear-Gaston Road.

In attendance were Bernard “Cliff” Terrell’s widow, Roberta Terrell, and daughter Tyanne Terrell.

Family and friends of the late businessman also attended to honor the achievements he had accomplished in his life. Terrell passed away in March 2013.

Terrell has served as executive vice president for the Richmond/Rosenberg Chamber of Commerce and the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. He also was vice president for the Fort Bend County Literacy Council and served in various positions for many organizations.

“He believed in education and he worked hard towards that. He used to say people cannot govern themselves if they are not educated,” Roberta recalled.

The ceremony took place in the library annex of Terrell Elementary. Audience members filled the room, leaving not one chair vacant.

“It is such an honor and well deserved,” Roberta exclaimed, “He never wanted the limelight, but I know he would be happy.”

Sonya Cole-Hamilton, chief communications officer of Lamar CISD, opened the ceremony and Mandi Bronsell, president of the Lamar CISD Board of Trustees, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

“I had the personal honor of meeting Cliff when I was just 25 years old and just beginning my career,” Bronsell said, “He taught me how important it is to give back to your community.”

Lamar Consolidated High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) presented the colors, and Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens followed with a speech.

“I would like to acknowledge Mr. Terrell’s family and friends,” Dr. Nivens announced. “Cliff had a lot of influence and it’s great when your friends come to celebrate you. It shows the legacy that he leaves behind.”

The ceremony included speeches from friends and colleagues of Cliff — Jeff Council, Betty McCrohan, and Huey McCoulskie. Each speech included a heartfelt memory of Bernard.

“He never wanted to take credit for all the accomplishments made. Cliff always stood in the background, but he was the driving force that got everything done,” Council stated.

At the close of the ceremony, Roberta was holding back tears as she shared her gratitude for the attendees and Lamar CISD.

“Cliff was the glue for so many projects throughout the county,” Roberta explained, “He now has his name on a school and for that, I want to thank every one of you. In my mind, I picture a great big smile on Cliff’s face.”

Following her mother’s speech, Tyanne said her father would have been proud of the campus.

“Thanks to everyone who came today to open this beautiful new school, which will be a great educational institution,” Tyanne stated.

Terrell Elementary School opened in August. Previously, the school was used as an education building for sixth graders of Roberts Middle School.

“I hope that it will inspire children to higher education,” Roberta said, “It is a gift that not everybody in the world has.”

CDL training program at TSTC provides opportunity for higher pay

It was a hot and muggy morning when five students of the Professional Driving Academy of Texas State Technical College’s Workforce Training and Continuing Education department were out practicing how to reverse a tractor-trailer.

Kelli Wilson, the instructor for the academy on TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus, said the students are looking for higher wages and a new job.

“Four of my students come from companies looking to train employees, and one is here out of pocket,” Wilson said. “Earning their CDL (commercial driver license) gives them more opportunities in the future.”

Texas is the leading state in commercial truck driver employment, totaling around 200,000 in 2020. However, a large percentage of these workers will be retiring in the next decade, leaving a

Roberta Terrell, widow of Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr., said she appreciates Lamar Consolidated ISD naming an elementary school after her late husband, Bernard.

Sonya Cole-Hamilton, right, introduced Tyanne Terrell at the Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr. dedication ceremony. Tyanne expressed her gratitude to the attendees of the ceremony.

“Cliff” Terrell

large need for more drivers.

The Professional Driving Academy aims to fill this gap through four-week courses that teach students the basics and get them behind the wheel with hands-on experience. The first week of the program is dedicated to teaching theory and principles, while the final three are in-person training with a tractor-trailer.

“Once our students go through the 160 hours of the course, they get called back to do their testing,” said Robert Ramirez, the director of instruction for the academy.

“We conduct the test in-house so students only have to spend very minimal time with the Department of Public Safety directly.”

In February 2022, the Texas Department of Public Safety began to require CDL applicants to go through a certified training program listed in the Training Provider Registry of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. When the change occurred, TSTC’s Workforce Training was able to move quickly to become certified, which simplifies the process for any student looking to get their CDL through TSTC.

The training is provided in areas of the state where there is a large need for more truck drivers.

“Expansion of the program occurred on a ‘as needed’ basis,” Ramirez said. “For example, when we talk about the program at Fort Bend County, Houston is a big market for truck drivers. The same is true of the other campuses the program is offered at.”

While the majority of the students who take the program are there

solely for their CDLs, Ramirez stated that recently there has been an increase in the number of electrical lineworker students who are interested. Those who are, and have all the necessary paperwork ready, can start nearly right away.

“If tomorrow we have a class starting, then they start tomorrow,” Ramirez said. “That pushes the line for everybody else, meaning more students get to take the course.”

Additional training is available for students looking to get their double or triple trailer endorsements or hazardous materials endorsements. The end goal for Ramirez is to provide everything that students could need and want.

“We provide extra training for our students so they can be better prepared for the industry,” Ramirez said. “When a student comes in through the program, what they can expect is professional instruction.”

In Texas, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earn a median annual salary of $46,820, according to onetonline.org. The website projected a 22% increase in the number of these jobs in the state from 2020 to 2030.

The Professional Driving Academy of TSTC’s Workforce Training and Continuing Education department offers training to prepare students to test for a Class A commercial driver license.

The program is taught at the Abilene, Fort Bend County, Harlingen and Marshall campuses.

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

Students at the Professional Driving Academy of Texas State Technical College’s Workforce Training and Continuing Education department at the Fort Bend County campus work on obtaining their CDLs. Their instructor is Kelli Wilson, left.

Taylor Abshier to discuss safeguarding waterfowl and wetlands in a free public program

Texas Master Naturalist Coastal Prairie Chapter will present the program, “Safeguarding Waterfowl and Wetlands: Unraveling the Mission of Ducks Unlimited,” from 7-9 p.m. Sept. 7, at the Rosenberg Civic Center. Guests can arrive at 6 p.m. for refreshments and social time.

Coastal Prairie Chapter programs are free and open to the public. The presentation will be led by Taylor Abshier, Regional Biologist on staff at Ducks Unlimited.

He will delve into the fascinating world of protecting waterfowl and wetlands. In his talk, “Safeguarding Waterfowl and Wetlands: Unraveling the Mission of Ducks Unlimited,” Taylor will shed light on the critical efforts undertaken by Ducks Unlimited, a renowned organization committed to preserving and protecting our natural habitats.

Taylor’s passion for wildlife conservation and his in-depth knowledge of wetland ecosystems will offer attendees a unique perspective on the challenges faced by waterfowl and the importance of wetland conservation. Through captivating stories and compelling data, he will reveal the profound impact Ducks Unlimited has had in preserving these vital habitats, ensuring the survival of countless waterfowl species.

“Prepare to be inspired as Taylor shares the successes, challenges, and ongoing initiatives of Ducks Unlimited, showcasing their tireless dedication to the environment and the creatures that call wetlands home,” the chapter stated. “Whether you’re an avid nature lover, conservationist, or simply curious about the incredible work being done to protect our natural world, this presentation is

not to be missed.”.

For more information about the Texas Master Naturalist Coastal Prairie Chapter visit txmn.org. For more information about Ducks Unlimited, visit www.ducks.org.

Need compost? Learn how to make it, yourself

On Sept. 9 from 9 -10:30 a.m. the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners and the Fort Bend County AgriLife Extension will present “Grow Your Own – Composting Class” in person at Bud O’Shieles Community Center in Rosenberg.

“Making your own compost can be a fun and rewarding activity,” organizers said. “There are many advantages to making compost, including a healthier garden and less yard waste going to a landfill.” Attendees will learn how to easily make their own compost using kitchen, yard and garden items. Register online at fortbend.agrilife. org. www.Joycelongwellness.com

Our sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists in Sugar Land offer:

• The latest imaging and technology

• Advanced nonsurgical treatments

• Minimally invasive procedures

• State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy

Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving.