Griggs, Hightower extend winning streak - Page 4
Tickets are available for Fort Bend Cares' 15th annual "Road Trip" fundraiser, which is set for Feb. 1. For more information on the event, read the story inside today's edition on Page 2.
WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 8, 2020
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Area religious leader charged with sex crimes
Wednesday Jan.8th
@ 6pm
Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 73
By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
A man described by authorities as an Islamic religious leader in Fort Bend County has been accused of using his position to commit sex crimes against children. During a news conference Monday morning, Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said 59-yearold Mohamed Omar Ali was arrested Jan. 3 in the Houston area of Fort
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Bend County. Ali has been charged with three counts
of indecency with a child and one count of aggravated sexual assault of a child. Bond has been set at $25,000 for each indecency count and $50,000 for the sexual assault charge. However, police said an ICE deportation order has been set for Ali, meaning he will not be released from custody of the FBCSO. According to Nehls, the arrest stemmed from a joint investigation with the FBI’s Houston office
dating back to September. Ali has spent time as an Islamic religious leader called an Imam in several mosques around Fort Bend County and the Greater Houston area, according to the FBCSO. “We always want to make sure these children have a voice so we can bring justice to that child and allow them to move forward with their lives,” Detective Michael Alexander said. According to Alexander, FBSCO was
initially contacted by the FBI’s Houston office as well as some of the victims. Alexander said Ali’s alleged crimes in Fort Bend County date back to 2013. Though Ali was not officially employed by any particular mosque, he was called upon to lead prayers and teachings, according to police. Alexander said police believe Ali, who was fluent in
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The Stafford High School Marching Spartans band performs in the Sugar Bowl parade Dec. 31 in New Orleans. Thanks to community donations, the band was able to fund the trip to perform in the parade and during halftime of the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1. (Photo courtesy of SMSD)
Notable names campaigning in runoff for District 28 seat By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
As the race for a critical seat in the Texas House of Representatives nears its conclusion, prominent politicians have thrown their support behind each candidate in the upcoming runoff. Democrat Eliz Markowitz, the leading
SEE HD 28 PAGE 7
Stafford bands together for Sugar Bowl moment By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
For many, New Year’s Day meant a day off from work and watching college football on TV. An area marching band, meanwhile, took part in the spectacle of the Sugar Bowl and brought 15 minutes of fame to their slice of Fort Bend County. The 234-member Stafford High School Marching Spartans band performed at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans during halftime of the Jan. 1 Sugar Bowl between the Georgia Bulldogs and Baylor Bears. They also got the chance to perform in the Sugar Bowl Parade on New Year's Eve and unfold
the giant American Flag during pregame. “I knew it was going to be amazing, but I didn’t grasp just how amazing it would be standing up there with 80,000 people watching,” junior clarinet player Philynn Dinh said. The Marching Spartans have taken home numerous honors from UIL competitions during director Rod Rodriguez’s 15 years at the school, but had never played on a stage like the Sugar Bowl. They were one of just eight bands hand-picked from around the nation to take part in the halftime performance. “It's no surprise that the Sugar Bowl chose
SEE SUGAR BOWL PAGE 5
The Stafford High School band got the opportunity to help unfold a giant American flag across the field during Sugar Bowl pregame festivities Jan. 1 at the MercedesBenz Superdome in New Orleans. (Photo courtesy of SMSD)
Dissent mounting on Rosenberg city council By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Markowitz
Gates
Simmering tensions on the Rosenberg City Council boiled over last month. During a contentious special meeting Dec. 10, the council voted 4-0 to censure Councilman Isaac Davila. The decision came in light of his proposition to make random drug and alcohol testing mandatory for all council members as well as a laundry list of alleged violations committed since his election in May 2018.
Previously struck down twice with minimal discussion, the drug-andalcohol measure passed during a regular meeting Dec. 3 – with the caveat of scheduling the tests before every meeting and Davila paying for them himself. A week later, the censure vote transpired. Mayor William Benton heavily criticized Davila at the special meeting Dec. 10, calling him disruptive to the council’s ability to get work done. “This is not the preferred way I would’ve
Benton
Davila
liked to have dealt with it, but I’m not sure how else to get through to you,” Benton said during the meeting to Davila, who
ran against him for mayor this year. “Every week you want to have ridiculous discussions instead of doing what you were elected
to do, which is represent the people of your district.” Davila cannot be let go from the council or anything similar by way of a censure, which is essentially a public reprimand. However, the lifelong Rosenberg resident believes there is an ulterior motive. “The reason they did it was to try to get me to back off and embarrass me in some way,” Davila
SEE ROSENBERG PAGE 6
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PAGE 2 • Wednesday, January 8, 2020
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Fort Bend Cares fundraiser set for Feb. 1 From Staff Reports
Shwn here is the 2020 Road Trip committee. Front Row: Cheryl Brown, Julie Honefenger and Lisa Murphy Second Row: Terri Nieser, Josie Beecroft, Lisa Short and Allison Haun Third Row: Mary Sloan, Sandra Lowe, Colleen Flint, and Gail McClendon Back Row: Melanie Anbarci, Karen Nemesi, Ann Edgar, Ali Burrows and Marissa Groeneveld
An evening of Latin sights, sounds and tastes is around the corner at Fort Bend Cares’ 15th annual “Road Trip” fundraiser next month. This year’s virtual trip will be to South America and is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1 at Fluor, located at 1 Fluor Daniel Dr. in Sugar Land. The night will be filled with décor, international cuisine and an interactive atmosphere transporting guests to the sounds, vibrant colors and flavors of South America. Attendees will have the
opportunity to sample dishes from more than a dozen popular restaurants along with a raffle and wine pull. There will be costumes, music by Shark Bait and
the Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Sugar Land as well as live and silent auctions. The annual road trip event is Fort Bend Cares' primary fundraiser for grants to help out organizations such as Gigi’s Playhouse of Sugar Land and more. Individual tickets for the event are $75 or $50 for young professionals 30 years of age or younger. For more information on the event or to become a sponsor, interested parties can call 281-725-8287, email info@ fortbendcares.org or visit the organization’s website at fortbendcares.org.
Quail Valley street repairs now underway From Staff Reports
Drivers near Quail Valley will experience some traffic delays due to ongoing street construction for at least the next few weeks. According to officials, Missouri City contractors began street repairs at the intersection of Bright Meadows Drive and Walnut Ridge Drive on Tuesday. Commuters may expect delays until the construction is complete. The crew has begun repairs on the westbound lane of Bright Meadows
Drive (about 150 feet in length and 14 feet in width), which will be followed by a smaller street panel repair on the eastbound lane (about 80 feet in length and 14 feet in width). Motorists are advised to use extreme caution while
★ ARREST, FROM PAGE 1
@ F O RT B E N D S TA R @ F T B E N D AT H L E T I C S
Arabic, was able to gain access to victims’ homes through religious capacities, where he would teach children about passages of the Quran. Police said there could be more victims both locally and nationwide as Ali has traveled to Fort Bend County from other states. “We do know that there
travelling in the area. Flaggers and traffic control devices will be in place. Residents can visit the city’s website, missouricitytx.gov, for more information on additional traffic projects.
are other victims out there. It is our plea for the other victims to reach out to us so we can conduct a further investigation,” Nehls said. “I don’t care what religious affiliation you are or whether I offend you. Our focus now is the children.” Anyone with information or any additional victims willing to come forward can reach out to Sgt. Jonathan Howell with FBCSO at 281-341-4797.
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Wednesday, January 8, 2020 • PAGE
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Griggs helps Hightower boys extend winning streak By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Bryce Griggs burst onto the scene last basketball season for Hightower, leading the Hurricanes in scoring as a freshman at 21 points per game. He has followed up a stellar rookie season with a strong start to his sophomore campaign, and his prowess was
on full display last week in helping Hightower continue a long unbeaten run. The Hurricanes, who moved up one spot to third in the Class 5A boys rankings compiled by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, scored victories over Foster and Marshall last week. Griggs, a four-star recruit by 247 Sports who already holds five major-college offers, led the way with 27 points in the
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Dec. 31 victory over Foster, while Chris Harris poured in 25 points of his own. It was the 10th time this season Griggs has eclipsed the 20-point mark, and he is averaging nearly 24 points per contest on 47 percent shooting from the field. Hightower (18-4, 5-0 District 24-5A) has won 14 consecutive games and is one of two teams still undefeated in 245A.
Meanwhile, Stafford defeated Fulshear 78-76 in overtime Jan. 3 in both teams’ District 25-4A opener. The Spartans will resume district play Friday night against defending district champion Needville. Willowridge (11-11, 2-2) bounced back from a Dec. 31 loss to Terry with a 79-69 victory over Lamar Consolidated on Jan. 3. On the girls’ side, Dis-
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Stafford's Daylan Presley (left) drives past a Fulshear defender. Stafford defeated Fulshear 78-76 in overtime to open District 25-4A action on Jan. 3. (Contributed photo)
trict 20-6A leaders Bush and Ridge Point both went 2-0 last week to remain alone atop the district standings. District 24-5A co-leader Hightower had another strong week with victories over Foster and Marshall. The fifth-ranked Lady Hur-
ricanes (21-4, 7-0 district) will put their undefeated district mark on the line Friday night against district co-leader Shadow Creek (19-4, 6-0) in a
SEE HIGHTOWER PAGE 8
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5
Rosenberg council tension paints murky picture of future There are deep-seated issues on the Rosenberg city council. The cause of tensions on the council are unclear, but they recently reached a boiling point of sorts. And in light of studying up on what could be longsimmering grudges, I think it’s clear some dynamic has to change. In order for a community to progress, it needs its elected body of leaders united – and Rosenberg’s council appears the furthest thing from it at the moment. On today’s front page, you’ll see a story about the city council’s vote to censure Councilman Isaac Davila by a 4-0 vote during a special meeting Dec. 10. The criticism came after Davila’s proposed mandatory drug and alcohol testing for council members passed with a 4-3 vote on Dec. 3. It was the third time Davila had proposed the measure.\But that seems to be just the tip of the iceberg. In previous interviews with other media outlets, Mayor William Benton has accused Davila of picking fights simply because council voted against him on certain matters, especially since failing in his bid to unseat Benton as mayor last year. Davila, who refuted Benton’s claims, has been critical of some council behavior for more than
Landan Kuhlmann LEAD REPORTER
a year, alleging violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act and more. "He is upset and he is bitter," Councilmember Jacob Balderas said Dec. 5, according to a report from ABC13. "That is why he's going and making a circus out of everything in order to serve some personal vendetta." However, Davila has insisted at previous meetings that serving the city’s 40,000 residents is his only aim, by way of cleaning up what he perceives are procedural and behavioral issues on the council. Past council members such as Alice Jozwiak and Lisa Wallingford have also chimed in, supporting Davila and criticizing the council’s behavior with regards to Davila’s censuring and beyond. “We’re just going to go forward and make a mockery of all of this and act like children,” Wallingford said of bickering that ensued over the third round of Davila raising his drug
and alcohol testing proposal Dec. 3, less than a week before resigning her position on the council. To me, those types of comments and actions scream of more than just posturing. Some tension is normal, and even necessary, on city council. Especially when situated in Fort Bend County, any elected body will come armed with a plethora of ideas, mindsets and visions for the future of their residents. To a point, dissension is healthy. But from what I’ve seen after studying videos from council meetings, it’s fairly clear that the discord goes beyond your standard dissention. Even tossing aside council members constantly talking over each other trying to make a point at meetings, which is human nature, it appears there is some bad blood and fresh wounds that keep it mired in bitter politics. Benton and other council members such as Balderas have been quoted as saying Davila is seeking attention by way of his proposals and criticisms of council that have persisted since his election in 2018, which Davila continues to refute. An on it has gone. "I've never seen anything like that, ever. I would love to see everybody put all this crap aside and just do our jobs and
Paying it forward However, a major snag remained as initial costs for the trip ran more than $1,000 per student. As a Title I school with a percentage of low-income students, only a small contingent of Stafford’s band would be able to afford it. That didn’t sit right with Rodriguez, who reached out to the Stafford City Council for help in attempts to lower student cost enough for full band inclusion. Newly-elected board member Alice Chen and longtime Mayor Leonard Scarcella eventually took the reins for the campaign, which raised more than $80,000 despite having barely six months to gather funds. Born and raised in Taiwan, Chen came to the United States on a full scholarship in the late 1970s before earning her
alleged violation or group of infractions. If they really believe some of Davila’s claims or criticism were baseless or worthy of serious action such as censuring, why not take action sooner? Something seems off there. The situation also could’ve been handled without the public circus it appears to have devolved into, which resident James Urbish called “an embarrassment.” Of course, there would have been back-and-forth discussion as with any censuring hearing, but again, I feel this goes beyond what is standard.
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CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888 Stafford's Marching Spartans band performs during halftime of the Sugar Bowl. (Photo courtesy of Stafford MSD)
MBA. To do so, however, required a grant from a friend in order to move to the U.S. After watching band practices during the scorching Texas summer and conversations with band members anticipating the trip, she knew she had to pay the opportunity forward. “I earned the scholarship, but somebody else had the heart to help a poor student come to this country and earn the American Dream. In that moment, I felt like I wanted to do my best for the students,” she said. “This is something that was a dream for them. Somebody helped me to complete my dream, so I put my heart into this project. ... I will put my heart into this city and this school. In a way, it’s a mission from God.” Living the dream The band received donations from community members as well as area businesses such as Walmart and Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land. Students were presented with a check during the Nov. 11 board meeting. “I knew a lot of people cared about the band, but it was surprising because I didn’t think people would want us to go like that,” senior Chellcy Webster said. “I wasn’t going to be able to afford it when the offer was first extended, so I’m thankful for that. I really wanted to go.” The experience was surreal for Dinh, who holds New Orleans in special regard as her father’s hometown and has traveled there on multiple occasions. “(Being there) made me realize that this opportunity was once in lifetime, and
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I took it,” she said. “I took it, and if I hadn’t, I don’t know what I would’ve done.” Added Rodriguez: “I’ve been at Stafford now for 15 years, and I’ve never seen the community come out and support us the way they did on this. There’s not a word that could put how I feel.” So there they were, in front of 80,000 faces inside the Superdome and millions more watching on television. The Spartans were a long way from home but still in their element. “I had never been to a football game in a big stadium like that,” Webster said. “For (that many) people to actually pay attention was an amazing experience.”
So what’s at the core of all of this? At this point it’s difficult to say, since only the council members know what goes on behind closed doors in council chambers. I don’t know Davila or any member of the council personally, so I won’t pretend to have any idea of their motives for proposals or criticisms of the others. But one thing is for sure. If the recent happenings are any indication, Rosenberg – as with any city – needs its council body to get its own house in order before it can hope to move forward.
CHURCH OF CHRIST
INDEPENDENT BAPTIST
★ SUGAR BOWL, FROM PAGE 1 such a talented instructor and dedicated group of students to perform at halftime of this prime-time event,” SMSD Superintendent Robert Bostic said. “This was an experience that the students involved and the entire Stafford community will never forget.” Hopefuls typically apply for opportunities such as the Sugar Bowl performance about a year out, according to Rodriguez. The Spartans did not initially apply, but opportunity knocked nonetheless. Just as the school year was wrapping up last May, Rodriguez received a call from the Sugar Bowl committee inquiring about the band’s availability for the event. Officials had seen videos of the Marching Spartans’ past performances online and liked what they saw. Rodriguez could not say “yes” fast enough. “I remember my experience back in high school, and I wanted my kids to experience that same feeling of looking up and seeing the audience out there yelling and screaming when you do something good,” he said. “It’s an experience that you’ll never forget, and that’s something I wanted to instill in my students.”
work for the people of Rosenberg,” Councilman Steven De Grgeorio said of the alcohol accusations, according to a report from the Houston Chronicle. I agree to a point. And in the end, the biggest question I have is this: Provided council members really believe Davila has been disruptive with his behavior or proposals, or guilty of even half of the laundry list of allegations read off Dec. 10, immediately before the censure vote, why did they just now come to light? In some cases, nearly a year had passed since the
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said Monday. “My friends and family know all these grievances (the council) put on me are all made up and manufactured. “In some instances where there is a little bit of truth, they have stretched it beyond reason.” Prior to publication, Benton did not respond to multiple email requests for comment. At least one Rosenberg resident believes a finger has been pointed at the wrong man. Former Planning Commission chairperson James Urbish
He said discord within council was simmering long before Davila’s censure and is masking real issues in the city. “We have to compromise to get things done in this city,” Urbish said. “… We’re having this game play every Tuesday night, and I’m sick of it. Forget censuring this man and get ready to go to work and get some stuff done.” Former councilmember Alice Jozwiak echoed the sentiment of political dissent on the council impacting the community, while councilor Lisa Wallingford resigned just prior to the special meet-
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A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at 10:00 a.m. on January 22, 2020 at Sugar Land City Hall, Cane Room, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. Questions regarding this bid must be submitted online to the www. CivCastUsa.com system by Monday, January 27, 2020 on or before 11:00 a.m.
AVISO PÚBLICO DE PROBAR EL EQUIPO TABULAR AUTOMATICAMENTE Notice is hereby given that the automatic tabulating equipment that will be used in the Primary Election to be held on March 3, 2020, will be tested on January 16, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Fort Bend County Elections Department, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas to ascertain that it will accurately count the votes cast for all offices and on all measures. Por lo presente se da aviso que el equipo para tabular automáticamente que se usará en la elección primaria el 3 de Marzo del 2020 se probara el 16 de Enero del 2016 a las 3 p.m. en el Departamento de Elecciones del Condado de Fort Bend, 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg Texas para determinar si el equipo contara con exactitud los votos para todos los puestos oficiales y sobre todos los medidas. /s/ John Oldham Fort Bend County Elections Administrator Administrador de Elecciones del Condado de Fort Bend
NOTICE TO BIDDERS STORM SEWER INSPECTION The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City: BID NO. 2020-14:
STORM SEWER INSPECTION BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE
Specifications and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.
The City Council will award the contract as provided in the Invitation to Bid. The City of Sugar Land will give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.
Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.
GOT NEWS?
For questions regarding this bid, please contact Jason Poscovsky CPPO, CPPB, Contracts Manager jposcovsky@sugarlandtx.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 16, 2020.
Email your news or press release to editor@FortBendStar.com
The City will award and give notice within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.
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Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUSA.com. Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2020, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.
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PUBLIC NOTICE OF TEST OF AUTOMATIC TABULATING EQUIPMENT
The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City:
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the general public’s time with your baseless accusations. Your behavior is out of control and has to stop.” However, Davila said he remains committed only to serving his city. “When someone protests that much, they’re hiding something. I wanted to bring attention to this so that it would stop,” he said. “… I don’t hide the violations they do. I bring them out into the open and they don’t like it, so they try to shut me down.”
(the mayor) wants, then he goes after them. I’m one of those.” Benton brought out a multi-page list of alleged infractions by Davila. Other council members have previously called Davila’s claims baseless, including his allegation that some members showed up to meetings with alcohol on their breath. “With all due respect, we are all a little concerned about your behavior,” Benton said. “You’ve cost the city thousands of dollars, you’ve wasted countless numbers of staff hours and you’ve wasted council and
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ing Dec. 10. “We have got to stop the game playing, because it’s fixing to break wide open for this council, and it’s not going to be pretty when it does,” Jozwiak said. “As a citizen, I have had enough. This is ridiculous to do this tonight to a person.” Davila has previously spoken out about perceived issues on the council such as alleged violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act in addition to requesting the drug and alcohol tests and more. “They have turned a serious subject into a circus,” he said. “When people don’t vote the way
• IRON FENCE REPAIR •
said the blame falls on what Davila characterizes as a largely hand-picked council, with several members serving their first term. “You all have been doing a fairly good job of making yourselves look bad. … It’s a sad state of affairs that the council has devolved into,” Urbish said. “Now you’re going to try to censure one of us, when the fact of the matter is every one of you all probably deserves worse than that.” Urbish also previously pushed for drug and alcohol testing on the council as well as for the institution of a code of conduct.
★ ROSENBERG, FROM PAGE 1
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Notice of Public Hearing PROPOSED REZONING OF 0.7906 ACRES FROM BUSINESS OFFICE (B-O) DISTRICT TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (PD) DISTRICT FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN – LAKE POINTE CREEK BEND LIVE WORK TOWNHOMES Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing: VICINITY MAP: 6:30 p.m., January 23, 2020, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed rezoning of approximately 0.7906 acres from Business Office (B-O) District to Planned Development (PD) District Final Development Plan for a live work townhome development located along Lake Pointe Parkway and Creek Bend Drive; further identified as being 0.7906 acres of land located in the Brown and Belknap Survey, Abstract No. A-15, and being the entirety of Unrestricted Reserve “J-3A” out of Lake Pointe Town Center Offices Unrestricted Reserves “J-3A”, “J-3B”, and “J-3C” Replat, a subdivision situated in Fort Bend County, Texas, according to the plat thereof recorded under Plat Number 20060234, of the Official Public Records of said Fort Bend County (F.B.C.O.P.R.). The agenda item for this meeting will be placed on the City of Sugar Land website at www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas” Planning & Zoning Commission no later than Friday, January 17, 2020. Request details or provide feedback on the proposed rezoning online at www.sugarlandtx.gov/PublicHearingComment or contact City of Sugar Land Planning Department at (281) 275-2218.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A TAKE 5 OIL CHANGE ON APPROXIMATELY 0.828 ACRES LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF HWY 6 AND SETTLERS WAY Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing 6:30 VICINITY MAP: p.m., January 23, 2020, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in the proposed Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the establishment of Take 5 Oil Change, an oil change facility classified in the Land Use Matrix as Auto Repair and Services, Minor, which requires a Conditional Use Permit in the General Business (B-2) District. The agenda item for this meeting will be placed on the City of Sugar Land website at www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas” Planning and Zoning Commission no later than Friday, January 17, 2020. Request details or provide feedback on the proposed Special Exception online at www.sugarlandtx.gov/PublicHearingComment or contact City of Sugar Land Planning Department at (281) 275-2218.
LOOKING FOR LOCAL EVENTS? FIND THEM ON PG 8
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Wednesday, January 8, 2020 • PAGE
7
Area doctor addresses use of IUDs From Staff Reports
Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, can be an effective birth control option, but many women choose others because they have reservations about IUDs. A Houston Methodist physician answered common questions patients ask her about IUDs. “The biggest advantage of IUDs is there is zero chance of user error,” said Dr. Rosalyn Miller, a board-certified OB-GYN with Houston Methodist Obstetrics and Gynecology at Sugar Land. Below are five tips Mill-
Miller
er gave to dispel what she called myths around IUDs. - Placement of the IUD
may be uncomfortable, but most agree it is tolerable. - There are two main types of IUDs, hormonal and a non-hormonal copper form. With the nonhormonal copper IUD, women might experience heavier, longer periods and spotting for two to three months. If you experience side effects that continue or become severe, ask your doctor how to best address these concerns. - While some women fear that IUDs are dan-
gerous, complications are rare, according to Miller. She said expulsions, or the IUD falling out of place, occur in less than 1 percent of women who have an IUD. - Having an IUD will not affect fertility later on. In a study comparing pregnancy rates between former IUD users and former users of other contraceptive methods, there was no difference between the two groups in the time it took to become pregnant, according to Miller. - IUDs can also help
A Helping Hand from
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SHIN SPLINTS MAY BE MORE SERIOUS THAN YOU THINK
One of the most common complaints of physically active people, especially athletes, is a pain that runs down the front of the lower leg. The medical term for this condition is “medial tibial stress syndrome,” but most people know it as shin splints. Shin splints are the result of repeated stress on the bones and muscles of the lower leg, causing the tissues to swell and put pressure on the bones. Without treatment, this can lead to tiny stress fractures in the bones and sometimes a complete fracture. A visit to the podiatrist will help determine the proper procedure for shin splints. While surgery is uncommon, it may be recommended if the pain has become chronic. P.S. One type of shin splint surgery involves removing a piece of the connective tissue that covers the shin bone to relieve inflammation. When you first visit our offices because you are experiencing shin splints, pain, or other unusual symptoms, we’ll conduct a physical exam and diagnostic tests to determine your foot problem. Once a diagnosis is made, we’ll develop a treatment plan designed to relieve your discomfort and/or correct the problem. We offer a wide range of technologically advanced podiatric treatments and procedures at 3143 Hwy. 6 South. Please call us for an appointment at 281-980-3668.
Getting rid of excess ear wax
Ear wax is naturally occurring substance that protects the ear, but can cause issues when found in excess. The problem is often caused by at-home wax removal techniques, such as inserting cotton swabs or other objects in the ear. These methods may push the ear wax deeper into the ear, causing a blockage. Symptoms can include partial or total hearing loss and earache. Products that soften the earwax are available overthe-counter (OTC). They make it easier to remove the wax or allow it to drain out of the ear. Carbamide peroxide (Debrox) or hydrogen peroxide drops can be placed into the ear. They can cause some ear irritation and should only be used every two days. Mineral oil or glycerin drops can also be used to soften the ear wax. After using these products, it may be necessary to wash out the ear using room temperature water using a syringe or bulb.
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with heavy periods. “Every woman should pick the birth control option that is right for her, but I don’t want women to be afraid of IUDs,” Miller said. To schedule an appointment with Miller, visit houstonmethodist. org/obgyn or call 346874-2060.
Are Two Hearing Aids Really Better Than One?
It primarily depends on your hearing loss whether you should wear one or Terry Snook AuD, FAAA two hearing aids. Your brain understands sound best when both ears are working correctly. Ears work together to separate speech so that you can focus on the sounds you want to hear. If you do have a hearing loss in each ear, wearing one hearing aid will improve your hearing but the improvement will be limited. Some advantages to wearing two hearing aids are: 1) Two hearing aids give you balanced hearing. Just like your eyes, the auditory system is a binaural system and the best results are achieved when both ears are hearing as well as possible and working together. It is especially difficult to hear in noisy environments with one hearing aid. 2) The ability to locate sound is based on input from both ears. It is virtually impossible to locate the sound of a car horn or siren if you do not have balanced hearing. 3) Wearing two aids allows you to hear more, thereby reducing fatigue and stress that can occur when you are straining to hear with one ear.
Advanced Hearing Center www.advancedhearingcentertx.com 1223 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land, Texas 77479
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01-11-17 - Ed’s Pharmacy - 2 x 4.5
ABS system recognized for baseball innovation From Staff Reports
Technology used in conjunction with the Sugar Land Skeeters has been recognized for its role in attempting to advance the way baseball is played. Sports technology publisher SportTechie recently named the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS), which made its debut in professional baseball with the Sugar Land Skeeters at Constellation Field and other Atlantic League teams last season, its “2019 Innovation of the Year.” The Atlantic League, as
part of its three-year partnership with Major League Baseball, installed TrackMan technology in each ballpark during the 2019 season. Following extensive testing, the ABS was first used to assist the home plate umpire in calling balls and strikes during the Atlantic League All-Star Game on July 10, which included three players from the Skeeters. For its successful introduction and potential to transform how balls and strikes are called, the Automated Ball-Strike system won SportTechie’s award for outstanding innovation.
The ABS system, which debuted at Constellation Field this year, was recently recognized for its role in attempting to advance the game of baseball. (Contributed photo)
ALPB President Rick White called the award a satisfying result of work throughout ALPB and with MLB partners. “We
★ HD 28 , FROM PAGE 1 vote-getter on Nov. 5, and Republican Gary Gates will square off in a runoff election Jan. 28, with early voting scheduled for Jan. 21-24. Several high-profile names have gotten behind each candidate as they vie to replace Republican John Zerwas, who vacated the seat in July. In a seat that many view as a harbinger for the future of the state’s political climate, Democratic presidential candidate and former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg spent time going door-to-door with Markowitz’s campaign last week. Former Vice President Joe Biden, another Democrat who’s running for the Oval Office, endorsed Markowitz on Monday. Former U.S. Rep. Beto O’Rourke, a Democrat and former presidential candidate, will also be in Fort Bend County Jan. 11-12 to advocate on Markowitz’s behalf as she seeks to turn
the seat from red to blue. “I’m glad to support her & hope everyone in her district will get out and vote to help turn this critical seat blue,” Bloomberg tweeted Dec. 29.
Gates has received endorsements from prominent Republicans such as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and current Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls, who is running for the
couldn’t be prouder to be contributing to awardwinning breakthroughs in our industry and the great American pastime,” White said in a statement. District 22 seat in the U.S. House of Representatives that will be vacated by the retiring Pete Olson. “Gary’s years of work in charity and in business has given him a keen insight on public safety issues,” Nehls previously said. “Gary will fight hard to protect people from crime.” According to a report from Houston Public Media, which cited Rice political science professor Bob Stein, there are at least 17 competitive Republican statehouse seats in the 2020 cycle. Stein said Republicans won roughly half of those seats in 2018, including HD-28, with margins of fewer than 5 percentage points. Fort Bend has been a largely Republican county for decades, but has begun to trend the other direction over the last few election cycles.
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THE STAR
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, January 8, 2020
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Tickets available for annual autism awareness luncheon From Staff Reports
Fort Bend County residents can now grab their spots for an area nonprofit’s biggest annual luncheon. On Feb. 13, Hope For Three is inviting residents to its ninth annual Autism Awareness Luncheon. This year’s Mardi Gras-themed event will take place at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond beginning at 11 a.m. Those in attendance will enjoy entertainment by Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School with live jazz music performed by Launch Academy Band. Honorary
chairs and guest speakers will be Sarah and Greg Swindell. The latter is a retired professional baseball player, World Series winner and 2019 Texas Sports Hall of Fame Inductee. The Swindells will share their personal journey living with their only son, Dawson, who has autism. Underwriting, table sponsorships or individual tickets are still available for purchase for the event. To learn more about Hope For Three or to connect with autism resources, residents can visit hopeforthree.org/events or call 281-245-0640.
GOT NEWS?
battle of the district’s two remaining unbeaten teams. In other area action, Dulles rebounded from a close loss to Ridge Point with a 70-43 win over Austin on Jan. 2. Nya Threatt lead all scorers for the Lady Vikings (11-8, 2-1 district) with 13 points, while Jahari Ennols had 12 points and Danielle King added 11. Threatt has reached double digits in all but six of the Lady Vikings’ games this season. Below are the results for last week’s games involving area teams: Greg Swindell with his son, Dawson, who has autism, and his wife, Sarah. Greg and Sarah Swindell will be the guest speakers at Hope For Three’s annual Autism Awareness Luncheon Feb. 13. (Contributed photo)
Email your news or press release to editor@FortBendStar.com
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS Meeting, Thursday, January 9th @ 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. in The Great Hall at Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. Come earlier to socialize. Two programs: Voter Registration Update; Meds & Medicare with Memorial Herman Sugar Land Pharmacy Director. All retired public school personnel invited. More information, call 281-4995885. FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES Fort Bend County LibrariesÕ University Branch Library will present a special program Ò SCORE: Investment in Real Estate,Ó from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 pm, in Meeting Room 1 of the library, located at 14010 University Blvd. in Sugar Land on the UH campus. For more information, see fortbend.lib.tx.us, or call the University Branch Library at 281-6335100, or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734. TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 SUGAR LAND GARDEN CLUB Mary Spolyar, Texas Master Naturalist, will explore a number of plants local to the Fort Bend area that are garden-worthy and are available for sale locally. Informative handouts will be available. All meetings of the Sugar Land Garden Club are free and open to the public. The meeting starts at 9:30 am and is held at the St. BasilÕ s Hall, 702 Burney Road, Sugar Land. For further information, please refer to the SLGC website at www.sugarlandgardenclub.org. FRIDAY FEBRUARY 7 BINGO NIGHT Brazoria-East Fort Bend County Optimist Friday February 7, 2020 7pm (Doors open at 6pm) New Hope Lutheran Church 1424 FM 1092 Missouri City, Tx 77459 Great Prizes ! Fun For All! $25 early bird cards. $30 at the door.
ONGOING DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED Are you interested in an adult Sunday School class that offers breathtaking videography of important Holy Land archeological sites combined with cultural scholar Ray Vander LaanÕ s explanation of the religious significance of those sites? First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land offers an ongoing weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class will help you more fully appreciate Biblical times and places, so you could more fully respond to the power of the Word today. There is no cost. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday morning at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281240-3195. EXCHANGE EXCHANGE, AmericaÕ s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new members! Various Fort Bend clubs exist and can accommodate early morning (7 a.m.), noon and evening meeting time desires. We are about 1) Doing Good in and for our community, 2) Having FUN!! 3) Making New Friends & 4) Developing Professional Relationships through our Programs of Service in Americanism, Youth, numerous Community Service Events and
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★ HIGHTOWER, FROM PAGE 4
Jan. 3 Hightower 75, Marshall 61 Bush 47, Clements 43 (OT) Willowridge 79, Lamar Consolidated 69 Ridge Point 76, Kempner 52 Travis 65, Elkins 52 GIRLS Dec. 31 Ridge Point 51, Dulles 49 Bush 58, Travis 48 Terry 51, Willowridge 45 Kempner 45, Clements 32 Hightower 42, Foster 39 Jan. 2 Dulles 70, Austin 43
BOYS Dec. 31 Austin 56, Alvin 30 Seven Lakes 69, Elkins 67 Hightower 87, Foster 70 Terry 77, Willowridge 69 Jan. 2 Dulles 62, Austin 41
35
Jan. 3 Hightower 74, Marshall 40 Bush 71, Clements 41 Ridge Point 53, Kempner
For more sports coverage and stories like this, follow The Star on social media @FortBendStar
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to 40 words and answer the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to editor@fortbendstar.com or mail to: Fort Bend Star, 3944 Bluebonnet Drive, Stafford, Texas 77477.
FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS
our National Project, the Prevention of Child Abuse. We are in Ò Unity for ServiceÓ as we work together to inspire our communities to be better places to live! For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-575-1145 or mike@reichekfinancial. com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about! SIENNA CRAFT/SEWING GROUP Sienna Craft/Sewing group. Meets every Tuesday from 10-noon at Sawmill Clubhouse in Sienna Plantation. We sew, crochet, knit, needlepoint, etc. contact Livia Erich at 281-543-3524 or liviaerich@ yahoo.com for additional information. AHFC JUNIOR HURRICANES (JHSL) Registration For the FALL 2019 - Now Open - The Junior Hurricanes Soccer League (JHSL) is led by professional United States Soccer Federation (USSF) licensed staff and is designed for boys & girls who want to play and have fun in a safe and developmentally appropriate environment. The JHSL program is being offered at multiple locations and in conjunction with CFSA at the Schiel Road Complex.To learn more about each location and to register please visit www.albionhurricanes.org. DAV CHAPTER 233 MONTHLY MEETING The second Tuesday of every month at the United Way fort Bend Center, 12300 Parc Crest Dr., Stafford, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, call 281-222-4888. MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801 Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., Missouri City Rec Center. Lunch, education, and entertainment. All seniors over 50 invited. For more information, call 713-859-5920 or 281-499-3345. BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT Volunteers are needed to be a role model, mentor and friend to children with exceptional needs in the community. Training, mileage reimbursement, taxfree monthly stipend if eligible. Call today to help change the world, one child at a time in Rosenberg. For more information, call 281-344-3515. WHILE WE’RE WAITING SUPPORT GROUP For Bereaved Parents - grieving the loss of a child at any age. Meets the third Thursday of every month, 7 p.m., at the First Colony Church of Christ, 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land. For more information, call 281-413-2484. AMERICAN LEGION 271 MEETING We meet the first Thursday of every month at the Post Hall, 4520 Hwy. 36 in Rosenberg. A covered dish meal is served to members at 6:30 p.m. followed by meetings at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 281-341-9966. ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Caregivers of patients with AlzheimerÕ s disease or other related dementias are invited to attend the first Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. JohnÕ s United Methodist Church, 400 Jackson St. in Richmond, across from the historic Fort Bend County Courthouse. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 713-314-1313 or 1-800-272-3900.
at the Quail Valley City Centre, 2880 LaQuinta, Missouri City. For more information, call 281-4376798 or jackipauley@att.net. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The Pregnancy Resource Medical Center has moved to 4411 Avenue N in Rosenberg across from Navarro Middle School. Volunteers are needed on a continual basis. For information on volunteering or supporting the PRMC in other ways, email info@ prmcfortbend.org. 4-H, FOOD & NUTRITION Fort Bend 4-H is looking for input from the community on how it can better serve the public. To learn more about 4-H projects, join 4-H at 7 p.m. at the University Library (14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land), visit fortbend4h.eventbrite.com or call 281-342-3034. STORY SPINNERS WRITING CLUB Hosted by the George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. 5:30-8 p.m. All levels welcome to write, share, learn and support. Free and open to the public. The program meets on the third Thursday of every month. For more information, call 281-342-4455 or 281-633-4734. ADOPT A SHELTER CAT Fort Bend Pets Alive is partnering with Half Price Books in Sugar Land to find homes for shelter cats and to promote literacy among young readers. School-aged children are invited to come read to a cat, receive an Ò I read to a catÓ bookmark and be eligible to adopt a cat for 50 perecent off. Held 1:304:30 p.m. the first Saturday of every month at 3203 Hwy 6 S, Sugar Land. FORT BEND RECOVERS HURRICANE HARVEY HELP Those needing help with a recovery plan for home repairs, or any unmet needs, Fort Bend Recovers is here to help. Call one of these Helplines today: Case Management Helpline 281-207-2555, Spiritual/ Emotional Helpline: 281-207-2505, Lone Star Legal Aid 866-659-0666. A case manager will contact you and get you started on your road to recovery.Visit www.fortbendrecovers.org for more information and to donate. CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS The Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City presents a variety of programs every month. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2900 or 281-633-4734.
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QUAIL VALLEY WINE SOCIETY Meets the fourth Wednesday of every month for education of wines, food pairings and fellowship
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