01/23/2019 Edition of the Fort Bend Star by Fort Bend Star

Get ready to rodeo at George Ranch: Page 3

The Houston SaberCats got ripped by the Raptors in rugby action. See the story on page 5. (Photo by Joe Southern)

WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 23, 2019

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 43 • No. 23

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

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City wants partner for new hotel, convention center From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

The City of Sugar Land released a Request for Statements of Interest (RSI) on Jan. 18 to begin selection of a private-sector partner for a future hotel and convention/ conference center project the next step in fulfilling the vision for five specific destination venues outlined by a citizen-led task force in 2007. Overall, the efforts are part of a larger, successful strategy that have been in place for

From staff reports

From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Marjorie Pollard has been elected president of the Fort Bend County Fair Association. Pollard is carrying on a family tradition with her service to the fair, and now her grandchildren represent the fifth generation of her family’s involvement. Pollard is a former livestock exhibitor and recalls the fair being held on the original fairgrounds. “I started showing cattle in the old fair barn on the original fairgrounds on Highway 90. We showed Charolais cattle in the Pollard open show; I must have been about 9 or 10 years old. My momma had us wash the cattle, feed them, and get them ready for the show. Those are some of my early memories,” said Pollard. Pollard remembers the early arts and crafts exhibits that her mother, the late Helen Ann Booth, and her aunts, did being involved in the Women’s Department. “As a kid, I remember going up the stairs to the Women’s Department. At that time only women would have entries of homemade goods like kolaches, canned goods, vegetables, crocheted items, and quilts. They would be displayed on the huge wooden cases,” Pollard said, adding, “I grew up all over those fairgrounds.” Pollard said she is honored to serve as president and looks forward to a great year. “For decades I have personally been coming to this fair, and now to be president, it is an honor for my family and me,” she said. Pollard has been involved with several committees including cowboy camp, fair queens, entertainment, adult creative arts, and reception committees. She has participated in the parade, livestock shows, and has been a buyer or bidder at several auctions.

SEE FAIR, PAGE 9

destination venues, as it did on the first two venues recommended by the citizen-led Visioning Task Force in 2007 and confirmed by voters in 2008 - Constellation Field, home of the Atlantic League champion Sugar Land Skeeters, and Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. Similar to those two projects, no general property tax dollars will support the development or operation of the new hotel and convention/conference center project. The hotel and convention/ conference center project is

seen as a key component of an arts and entertainment district and is intended to complement the Smart Financial Centre, a 6,400-seat live entertainment venue that has annually attracted more than 350,000 paid attendees during its first two years of operation, earning continued global recognition as one of the world’s top 10 theatre venues and providing a projected annual benefit to the community of $26.1 million over 30 years. The proposed hotel and convention/conference cen-

ter site is also located in a major primary employment center that includes Texas Instruments, Fluor Corporation’s planned new campus and the University of Houston - Sugar Land. With those commitments for the creation of an exciting office and entertainment-centric, mixed-use regional activity center, the city continues to expand its economy, adding jobs and generating new revenue that ensures Sugar Land

SEE HOTEL, PAGE 9

Fort Bend ISD postpones plans to rezone high schools FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Pollard voted president of Fort Bend County Fair Association

more than a decade to grow and solidify Sugar Land’s reputation as an economic powerhouse and destination location - as well as increase the city’s financial resilience through the development of unique destination venues. The project is planned to be located on city-owned property adjacent to the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land and Plaza near U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard. The city has a long history of partnering with industry leaders to develop

Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Charles Dupre last week sent a letter to parents in the school district announcing that the district is postponing plans to rezone high schools until after it has purchased property to build a 12th high school. The following is the letter he posted on the district’s website: Dear Fort Bend ISD Parents and Guardians, I’m writing to update you on attendance boundary planning in advance of Tuesday night’s Board meeting, as the administration has decided to withdraw our recommendation to make any changes to high school attendance boundaries in the southeast portion of the District. On Tuesday, we will ask that the Board of Trustees approve the recommended attendance boundaries for Malala Yousafzai Elementary, and we will also present a comprehensive plan related to high schools in the southeast portion of the District that will keep all current attendance boundaries in place for at least the next two school years, while we expedite our plans for the construction of a new high school. As you are aware, High School 12 was included in the 2018 bond, and through the recent community engagement efforts, it became clear that the community’s desire was to make minimal changes in the short term, prior to the construction of the new school. Our decision to withdraw our recommendation for high school attendance boundary changes at this time is based on several

factors, including the identification of a site for building High School 12 and the Board’s desire to take immediate action to secure the site. This provides a more clear path forward and will enable the drawing of boundaries for the new high school and minimize the disruption to students of rezoning to balance enrollment and rezoning again to open High School 12. Our decision was also informed by the Board’s discussion at Monday’s Board Workshop, where they expressed concerns about how frequent rezoning affects our students and communities and the need to provide more long-term solutions for high school programming and building utilization. During Tuesday’s Board meeting, we will ask the Board for authorization to negotiate the purchase of an 80 acre-tract of land, and will share more about how we are aggressively pursuing options that could lead to an earlier opening of HS 12, in the 2022-23 school year, instead of the 2024-25 school year. While we will not recommend any action to change high school attendance boundaries at this time, the board will have the authority to discuss and possibly take action on changes, should they see fit. More information about these plans will be shared with the Board on Tuesday night, and, at the same time, we will also share a thorough overview of our plans to expand programming at Marshall High School and Willowridge High School, as set forth in the 2018 Facilities Mas-

SEE BOUNDARY, PAGE 9

Turnaround closed Sugar Land closed the Brazos River turnaround under U.S. Highway 59 indefinitely after receding floodwater revealed that portions of the road were washed away. The canoe launch is also closed. For current road conditions throughout Sugar Land, visit its.sugarlandtx.gov/ traffic. (Submitted photo)

Congressional reception U.S. Rep. Pete Olson, R-Texas, meets with supporters Jan. 17 at the Marriott Town Square for a VIP reception. The event served as a thank you to supporters who helped him get reelected, a kick-off to the 116th Congress, and an opening of his re-located office in Sugar Land Town Square. In brief remarks, he talked about getting federal employees paid during the government shutdown, leadership gaffs by the Democratic Party, and his support for President Donald Trump’s proposed border wall. “He’s not going to build a wall across the whole southern border; he wants the wall where it matters. We all agree with that,” Olson said. He later added, “We have to stand firm by Mr. Trump because he’s doing the right thing.” (Photo by Joe Southern)

Senators named to committees From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced his list of Senate committee assignments for the 86th Legislative Session last week, naming Sen. Lois W. Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. Kolkhorst was also named a member of the Senate committees on finance, transportation, nominations and water and rural affairs. Sen. Borris L. Miles, D-Houston, was named to the criminal justice, health and human services, natural resources and economic development and nominations committees. “I’m grateful to the lieutenant governor for the opportunity to build a healthier state for all Texans,” Kolkhorst said. “This is a time to work together so that our healthcare system is affordable, accessible, and accountable to everyone. My promise is to always listen to every side so that we can get results that touch lives and make a difference.” The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services is one of the most influential Senate committees, responsible for setting public health policy for the state, regulating physicians and other healthcare professionals, and providing legislative oversight to state agencies and boards including the Health and Human Services Commission, Department of Family and Protective Services and the Texas Medical Board among many other health-

State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, left, makes a point while Sen. Borris Miles listens during a Fort Bend County legislative conference held last November. The two senators were given committee assignments for the 86th Legislature last week by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. (Photo by Joe Southern)

related licensing agencies. No stranger to health policy, Kolkhorst previously served as Chair of the House Committee on Public Health for six years during her tenure in the House of Representatives. In addition to health policy, the committee chair also oversees nearly $80 billion of healthcare spending in the state budget. As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, Kolkhorst will continue to serve as a key budget writer for the states’ budget, which is estimated to be well over $200 billion for the 20202021 biennium. The state budget is familiar territory for Kolkhorst, who is recognized as the only lawmaker in Texas history to serve as a budget-writing conferee twice in both the House and Senate. With Kolkhorst’s reappointment to the Transportation Committee, Kolkhorst will oversee the Texas Department of Transportation and will work with local officials on solving traffic problems and highway needs. With nearly a third of the Texas coastline located in Senate District

18, the committee oversees ports and navigation issues. The authority to make governmental appointments is a power given to the Governor by the State Constitution. As a result, during each four-year term, a Governor will make approximately 3,000 appointments of state officials; members of state boards, commissions, councils, along with vacancies for state-elected and judicial offices. As a member of the Committee on Nominations, Kolkhorst will confirm all appointees proposed by Gov. Greg Abbott. As a member of the Water and Rural Affairs Committee, Kolkhorst will continue managing the future water needs of Texas. Being a member of this committee will be important to Senate District 18, where Kolkhorst has been a vocal advocate for local control over water and property rights, as well as the proper management of river basins. In addition to her standing committee assignment, Kolkhorst will continue to serve on

SEE SENATE, PAGE 7

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PAGE 2 • Wednesday, January 23, 2019

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Election filings Scarcella seeks re-election as Stafford mayor Leonard Scarcella has announced his candidacy for re-election as mayor of the City of Stafford this May. “As one of the longest continuously serving mayors in the nation, I’ve led this city on a storied journey of incredible achievements, of which most others cities would dare not dream. Noteworthy in my many decades of long accomplishments has been the involvement of citizens of all races and cultures in the truly American pursuit of working, playing, learning and worshipping together to form a better city,” he said. “So what’s on the horizon? At its last meeting of 2018, city council approved the building of a new two-story police annex and a new fire station/ administration

Dr. Lori’s antique advice Lori Verderame of Dr. Lori’s Antique Appraisal Comedy Shows, discusses antiques that visitors brought her to appraise last weekend at the Sugar Land Home and Garden Show, held at the Stafford Centre. The annual show drew thousands of visitors over the weekend. Verderame was one of the featured presenters at the show. (Photo by Joe Southern)

complex, both of which should be completed this year. Supplement that with the much celebrated Grid, a mixed use, multipurpose revitalization complex being erected on the former Texas Instruments property. The developer has advertised it—which induced the city to commit $18 million to the endeavor—as a project that will transform Stafford and make the city into a point of destination. It will be difficult to achieve those lofty goals, but we all very much look forward to the improvements and enhancements it will bring. Then there is the Revitalization of the FM1092 Corridor project moving forward in conjunction with TxDoT which will materially elevate the appearance, mobility and commercialization of this span of highway modeled

after Westheimer in Houston,” he said. Abdulhameed seeks Pct. 3 Constable post Mohammed Nehad Abdulhameed is running for Fort Bend County Constable Office Precinct 3. The Precinct 3 Constable Office covers the entire Sugar Creek neighborhood community. Abdulhameed supports proactive policing for Sugar Creek. A kickoff party will be held at La Finca Mexican Restaurant, 23930 Westheimer Pkwy, Katy at 7 p.m. on Feb. 1. RSVP to mo@nehad2020. com. Walz to seek Congressional seat Army combat veteran, helicopter pilot, and small business owner Joe Walz announced his candidacy for U.S. House of Representatives Texas District

22 in the 2020 Republican Primary. Walz was born and raised in TX-22. He is the middle child of two sisters who all grew up in the Mission Bend area. After graduating high school, Walz spent nearly 11 years in the Army. Over the course of his career, Walz spent over 2,000 hours crewing CH-47 Chinook helicopters through the skies of Iraq (flight engineer / door gunner), being awarded The Air Medal twice. During and after his military career Joe studied criminal justice and aeronautical technology, receiving his commercial helicopter pilot certificate in 2014. Walz currently lives in Richmond with his wife of nearly seven years, his three daughters. For more information, visit www.JoeWalz.us.

Smart Financial Centre acquired by Ambassador Theatre Group From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Ambassador Theatre Group recently added the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land to its portfolio after acquiring ACE Theatrical Group, including ACE-Sugar Land, which manages the entertainment venue. Smart Financial Centre is currently ranked sixth in the world in ticket sales for venues under 10,000 seats as reported by the concert industry’s Pollstar Magazine. The venue is a state-of-the-art, indoor performance venue with flexible seating capacities. “The acquisition of Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land expands ATG’s footprint in North America to ten venues, extending our presence in a key region for live entertainment. We are grateful for the leadership of Gary Becker who has led the venue to date and will remain as part of the team, and look forward to working with the City of Sugar Land. Our goal is to lead the industry with

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commercial-driven initiatives, and to deliver our signature world class customer service,” commented Stephen Lewin, Ambassador Theatre Group’s CEO, North America. Kristin Caskey, Ambassador Theatre Group’s EVP of Content and Creative, North America, added, “ATG

tertainment landscape and defined its role in solidifying Sugar Land’s position as an economic powerhouse and destination location – one of the many examples of the City’s long history of partnering with industry leaders to strengthen our community for residents, businesses and

"David Skinner brings decades of experience to Smart Financial Centre" - Stephen Lewin, Ambassador Theatre Group’s

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is committed to diverse programming that will further contribute to Sugar Land’s positioning as a cultural destination for artists and audiences alike. We will also continue in expanding partnerships with local organizations, businesses and serving the needs of the local community.” “In just two years since its opening, Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land has changed the regional live en-

visitors,” said City Manager Allen Bogard. “Knowing that Ambassador Theatre Group’s relationship to Sugar Land began even before our venue opened, we are looking forward to working with ATG to continue to grow and expand the success of this important venue.” Taking over the helm as general manager is 35-year industry veteran David Skinner, who spent the last 10 years of his career managing the Ma-

halia Jackson and Saenger Theatre in New Orleans. “David Skinner brings decades of experience to Smart Financial Centre, having managed major venues throughout the country including the Louisiana Superdome, OMNI Arena and many more. We look forward to his leadership in propelling the venue to new heights and continuing to build Smart Financial Centre as one of the premier theaters in the United States,” said Lewin. ACE’s portfolio of largescale theatrical venues comprises The Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York; The Saenger Theatre in New Orleans; The Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts in New Orleans; The Majestic Theatre in San Antonio; and The Charline McCombs Empire Theatre in San Antonio. ACE’s interest in the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land in Sugar Land will not be assigned as a part of this transaction. The existing ACE management team will remain with the business.

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Wednesday, January 23, 2019 • PAGE

George Ranch to hold inaugural rodeo in honor of black cowboys From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Discover the enduring legacy of black cowboys in Fort Bend County history on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the inaugural George Ranch Rodeo. Featuring all the favorite rodeo events (including bull-riding, team roping and steer-riding) plus kids’ activities, entertainment, and vendors, the rodeo will be a funfilled day at the ranch like no other. “For more than 100 years, black cowboys played an essential role in Fort Bend County ranching operations. At the George Ranch specifically, four generations of black cowboys worked alongside four generations of the George family, leaving behind a rich legacy of black cowboy heritage that is unique to this part of Texas,” said Director of Programs Krystal Willeby. “The rodeo grew out of a desire to celebrate the skills and contributions of these amazing individuals.” This year’s event will showcase the history of black cowboys in Fort Bend County with a particular spotlight on

brothers James and Willie Thomas. The Thomas brothers grew up at George Ranch and, from a young age, rode anything they could – including ranch pigs. Both brothers went on to compete in professional rodeos: James rode bare back until he left the cowboy life to serve in the U.S. Army and Willie became one of the best professional bull riders of his era. (Willie’s contributions to the field have now been recognized by the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.) Debra GreenwoodSharp, a member of the Fort Bend History Association’s Board of Trustees, said she is delighted to see her uncles’ ranching and rodeo accomplishments showcased for the com-

munity. “I'm grateful – and so thankful – for the opportunity to share and raise awareness for the legacy of the many black cowboys who trail blazed through history here at the George Ranch and elsewhere in Fort Bend County,” she said. “I’m definitely tickled that my uncles played a big part in that story, but I’m also extremely honored to help preserve the legacy of the black cowboys in this part of Texas.” The rodeo will feature special guest appearances by Genet Chenier, DJ R.E.M and DJ 281. Rodeo events include bull-riding, ladies’ barrel racing,

SEE RANCH, PAGE 9

The inaugural George Ranch Rodeo will honor the legacy of black cowboys, including brothers James and Willie Thomas. James Thomas is pictured here. (Submitted photo)

A day for Mirabeau Lamar Members of the Texas Army, a Texas Revolution re-enactment group, pose in front of the grave of Mirabeau Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas, during the 2017 Lamar Day celebration in Richmond. This year’s event will take place at his gravesite in Morton Cemetery in Richmond on Friday, Jan. 25, at 10:30 a.m. (Photo by Joe Southern)

Small Business Enterprise Program to hold kickoff meeting for 2018 Bond projects From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Fort Bend ISD’s Small Business Enterprise Program is hosting a kickoff meeting for the 2018 Bond Program on Wednesday, Jan. 30, from 2-4 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD Triplex (550 Julie Rivers, Sugar Land). Contractors and subcontractors can learn more about the 2018 Bond Program and upcoming opportunities included in the program for small businesses. In November, Fort Bend ISD voters approved the 2018 Bond, a $992.6 million package that includes funding for the construction of new schools and classroom additions, safety and security enhancements, renovations to address maintenance and adequacy throughout the District, and transportation and technology

needs. For more information, contact the Small Business Enterprise Program

Office at 281-327-7697 or 281-327-7195, or email sbep@fortbendisd.com.

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FBISD to hold job fair From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Fort Bend ISD’s Human Resources Department will host a job fair to fill positions for the 201920 school year in the following areas: Career and technical education, special education, early literacy and its newest elementary - Yousafzai Elementary. The job fair will take place Saturday, Feb. 16, 2019 from 9-11 a.m. at the FBISD Annex, 3119 Sweetwater Blvd, Sugar Land. Those who plan to attend can register at www.fortbendisd.com/fallinlove. The deadline to register is Feb. 11. Career and technical education The state-of-the-art James Reese Career and Technical Center will open in August and will serve approximately 2,000 students daily from all 11 of the district’s high schools.

Business partnerships will allow students to benefit from real-world experiences. Students will also have the opportunity to earn dual credit and industry certifications. Teaching opportunities include, but are not limited to: Health science, automotive technology, diesel mechanics, culinary arts, hospitality and tourism, cyber security, firefighting, welding and HVAC. Special education FBISD has identified the need for additional staff to serve its special education population. Open positions include, but are not limited to: Licensed Specialists in School Psychology, diagnosticians, special education teachers, and special education paraprofessionals. The FBISD Special Education department provides unique training and support to its staff members. Early literacy FBISD’s Early Literacy

Center opened in August 2018 to provide innovative programming that supports the development of literacy skills and socio-emotional growth for students in pre-kindergarten and first grade. The center is seeking teacher candidates who are EC-6 and ESL certified. FBISD’s Early Intervention Academy provides an innovative approach that offers a blend of academic and specialized therapy services to PPCD and general education students who are 3 and 4 years old. The academy is seeking teacher candidates who are special education, EC6 and ESL certified. Yousafzai Elementary FBISD named its newest elementary school in honor of the Nobel Peace Prize recipient Malala Yousafzai. The school will open in August 2019 and is located in the Aliana subdivision. FBISD is looking for dynamic EC-6 ESL certified teachers.

Application window open for classes at new James Reese Career and Technical Center From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

The application to enroll in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes offered at the new James Reese Career and Technical Center for the 2019-20 school year is available online through Tuesday, Feb. 5, at 3 p.m. The Reese Center opens in fall 2019 and will offer various specialized courses to provide students with extensive hands-on-learning experiences in preparation for

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their post-secondary college and career goals. The center will welcome FBISD sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Current seventh and eighth grade students may need to choose prerequisite courses at their home campus in order to be eligible to attend programs offered at the Reese Center their sophomore through senior year in high school. Students may select courses in hospitality and tourism, computer technology, cosmetology, automotive, culinary arts,

welding, firefighting, health science, law enforcement and court systems, construction, diesel mechanics, education and training, arts and A/V production, oil and gas/energy and natural resources. Students are encouraged to apply to more than one program, as there is a limited number of seats available in each program area. To complete an application or learn more about the new center, visit w w w.for tbend isd.com/ Page/1004.

Find them on the Community Calendar each week!

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Wednesday, January 23, 2019 • PAGE

@FtBendAthletics:

Ridge Point stays undefeated, beats Dulles 67-55 By Bill McCaughey FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

The Ridge Point Panthers improved their district record to 9-0, 25-4 overall, as they beat Dulles 67-55 in girls basketball last Friday at Ridge Point High School. Behind 8-7 in the middle of the first quarter, the Panthers closed out the quarter with an 11-5 run to take the lead 18-13. Ridge Point stayed hot in the second quarter as they outscored Dulles 12-7 to make the halftime score 30-20. In the third quarter, Ridge Point applied a pressing defense causing Dulles problems in advancing the ball beyond the half-court line. The Panthers went on a 14-4 run in the first four minutes of the quarter. “We have been working really hard in practice on defense. The kids have really worked hard together and are starting to jell on the defensive end,” Ridge Point Coach Michael Vitek said. “All of the kids are stepping up and holding each other accountable and working together.” Ridge Point then settled into a zone which Dulles found more to their liking as they went on a 9-0 run to end the quarter with Ridge Point up 4633. In the fourth quarter, the teams traded baskets

Ridge Point’s Taylor Thomas (12) drives around two Dulles defenders. (Photo by Bill McCaughey)

Ridge Point’s Raven Adams (0) goes up for a shot against Dulles’ Dai Dai Powell (1) Friday night. (Photo by Bill McCaughey)

and the game ended with Ridge Point on Top 67-55. Ridge Point had a balanced scoring attack as Aleighyah Fontenot had 15 points, Dala Allen had 11 and Raven Adams and Taylor Thomas had 10 points each. “Sophomore Dala Allen is becoming a more dominant post player as she understands more and more of what we are doing on the offensive end,” Vitek said. “She is show-

ing more versatility each game, especially in our press.” The Panthers are in first place in District 20 6A with a two-game lead over Dulles and Kempner with five games left in the regular season. Kempner comes back to defeat Travis 36-33 Kempner outscored Travis 8-4 in the fourth quarter to beat Travis 36-

33 Jan. 15 at Travis High School. Travis started fast as the Tigers took a 13-4 lead with three minutes to go in the first quarter, but Kempner scored the last five points of the quarter to cut the lead to 13-9 at the end of the first quarter. Each team scored six points in the second quarter to make the halftime score 19-15 in favor of Travis. Kempner closed the gap to one point, 29-28 at the end of the third quarter as Jaiden Eaton scored nine points in the quarter. In the fourth quarter,

score 36-33. Eaton led Kempner with 13 points and Dallas had 10. Delilah Van Campen led Travis with 14 points. “The last time we played Travis we won by only four points, so we expected a close game,” McGregor said. “I am very proud of my girls tonight. We took care of the ball and had good passing lanes. We may not be as good as some teams, but we are smart, and we are big. We can get the rebounds and control the boards. If you control the boards, you control the game. That’s a big thing for us.”

Kempner’s Alleah Dallas scored six points in the first four minutes as the Cougars went on a 7-0 run to take a 35-29 lead. “We told Dallas at halftime that this was a big game for her. She played amazing. I am very proud of her,” Kempner Coach Melynda McGregor said. Travis fought back to within two points at 35-33 but the Tigers missed several shots under the basket and then with five seconds to go in the game, a gametying three-point shot was blocked. Kempner added a free throw at the end of the game to make the final

Raptors too much for SaberCats in final pre-season match 80-minute effort is something we need to show next week.” Next week starts the second regular season for Major League Rugby. The SaberCats open on the road at the Austin Elite in a match Saturday night at the Dell Diamond. Houston then travels to the San Diego Legion on Feb. 9. They return to Constellation Field Feb. 22 to host the Toronto Arrows. On March 2 the SaberCats host Rugby United New York, followed by a road game at the Seattle Seawolves. The SaberCats conclude their stay at Constellation Field on March 16 against the New Orleans Gold. On March 23 they open their new home, AVEVA Stadium, against the Utah Warriors.

By Joe Southern JSOUTHERN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

In the final tune-up before the start of the second regular season of Major League Rugby, the Houston SaberCats fought hard against the Glendale (Colo.) Raptors and a bone-chilling cold wind at Constellation Field before falling 36-21. The Raptors, who finished second in the league last season, used a fastpaced passing game to keep pressure on the SaberCats throughout the match. The home team scored first on a penalty kick to go up 3-0 just 2 minutes into the game. Four minutes later, however, the Raptors responded with a try. The kick was good and the Raptors took a 7-3 lead. The SaberCats closed to within a point with another penalty kick at 11:35 to make the score 7-6. The SaberCats missed a kick later in the half that would have put them ahead. They also kept pressure on the Raptors, nearly scoring a couple times, but the Raptors broke free and scored a try at 26:58. The kick failed and the Raptors were up 12-6. Five minutes later Glendale scored again and this time the kick was good for a 19-6 lead. Moments before the half, Houston scored a try and cut the lead to 19-11. The SaberCats scored another kick to make the score 19-14 in the second half but then Glendale scored three more tries to take a 36-14 advantage. At the 78:00 mark the Saber-

Houston SaberCats wing Josua Vici carries the ball against the Glendale Raptors during Saturday’s Major League Rugby match at Constellation Field. (Photo by Joe Southern) Houston SaberCats scrum half Connor Murphy runs with the ball against the Glendale Raptors during Saturday’s Major League Rugby match at Constellation Field. The Raptors beat the SaberCats 36-21 in the final pre-season match. (Photo by Joe Southern)

Cats scored a final try and made the kick to end the match 36-21. “We spend a lot of time in their 22 come to their line but didn’t converse, a couple times held up,” said SaberCats hooker Pat O’Toole, who was named the team’s Man of the Game. “Feel like we could have gotten a bit more change out of our scrums. We transitioned from being on their line next thing they turn it over and be 70 yards down the pitch, so a little complacency there, so we need to be more clinical there and finish our chances and defense.

Our defense let us down a little bit.” Matthew Trouville, who plays backrow for Houston, said they gave the Raptors too many opportunities. “I would say we need to put a consistent 80-minute effort instead of really good periods of play followed by a lapse in concentration that really cost us,” he said. “They scored some long-range tries today that were purely just positional mistakes or just switching off for half a second and a great team like Glendale’s going to do that; they’re going to punish you for doing that, so a consistent

Stafford’s Academic All-State honors Stafford High seniors Ken Savanah Jr., left, and Kobe Jordan, right, earned Academic All-State football honors for maintaining a 90 percent or better academic average. Stafford senior Zachary Metcalf, center, earned the Spartan Team Award. (Submitted photo)

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Chris Hogan wants you to become a millionaire So, you want to be a millionaire? I’ve found the perfect person to help you achieve that dream. His name is Chris Hogan and he is a protégé of Dave Ramsey, the personal finance guru who has helped millions of people get out of debt and grow wealth and generosity. Hogan just published his second book, “Everyday Millionaires,” and was in Katy last week during a stop on his national book signing tour. An estimated 250 people crammed into Books-A-Million in Katy Mills Mall to see Hogan and have him sign their books. I had the honor and pleasure of interviewing Hogan prior to his appearance. As we huddled together in the backroom of the bookstore we talked about his book and his desire to help people join the millionaire club. “People are loving the message,” he said. “People are hearing it. And I think it’s timely for people to understand the American dream is still available. But people need a plan. We just can’t just give them motivation, we need to point them in the right direction and that’s what this book does.” The book is the culmination of two years of intensive research. Utilizing an outside research firm, Hogan and his team interviewed 10,000 of the 11 million millionaires in America and compiled their stories, strategies and other statistics into “Everyday Millionaire.” The book is a follow-up to his “Retire Inspired” and dovetails nicely into the Ramsey financial storyline. “Looking through the process, we’ve got Financial Peace University, there’s ‘The Total Money Makeover’ – Dave’s book that really changed my financial life - and then it moves into ‘Retired Inspired’ and then ‘Everyday Millionaire.’ But

FAITH, FAMILY & FUN JOE SOUTHERN EDITOR

here’s the reality - having been with Dave (Ramsey) for 13 years, we know without a doubt when people start working in the right direction and they do certain things over time, they have success,” he said. The keys are time and consistency. If you’re looking for a get-rich-quick book, don’t bother picking this one up. The lesson learned from the millionaire next door is that creating wealth is akin to being the tortoise in the race with the hare. “We’ve got to learn how to slow down. You and I grew up in a time and an age of crock pots. That tastes so much better than something that’s microwaved, and it’s slower and that’s what I want people to do. Set goals that you’re serious about but be intentional about working toward it. Yes, it’s going to take time but I promise you it’s going to be worthwhile,” he said. I had to ask him if it’s too late for an old guy like me. I’m 53, am saddled with debt, and have no savings whatsoever. “A lot like ‘Retire Inspired,’ a lot of people thought that book was targeted toward baby boomers – no, that book was targeted toward people. I don’t care if you’re 21 or 81 because the principles in it are firm. And so the same would be said for this ‘Everyday Millionaires’ book that regardless if you’re 23 or 53, the principles, the qualities that make people millionaires, the things that

Chris Hogan, author of “Everyday Millionaires,” speaks to the crowd Jan. 14 during a book signing at Books-A-Million in Katy Mills Mall. Hogan’s book is the result of interviews with over 10,000 millionaires and tells how average people can achieve that financial milestone. (Photo by Joe Southern)

they do … they take personal responsibility, they’re intentional with their finances, they’re goal oriented, they’re hard-working, and they know that wealth-building takes time. That has no age demographic,” he said. In his book, Hogan uses real stories and statistics to bust several myths and to provide a roadmap for real wealth building. Among the millionaire myths that he busts are: They inherited their money and didn’t earn it; they take big risks with their money; and they have expensive educations and earn high wages. Nearly 80

percent of all millionaires didn’t inherit a dime. They’re not all doctors and lawyers – in fact a high number were accountants and teachers! The tool that 79 percent of them used to build their wealth was their employer-sponsored retirement plan, usually a 401(k), and investments in Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA). The average person in Hogan’s study became a millionaire at age 49 after decades of investing. Less than 5 percent did it within 10 years. Hogan wrote that 88 percent of millionaires have at least a bachelor degree with 62 percent graduating from a public state college, 8 percent from community college, and 9 percent never graduating from college. His point is that anyone can do it. “Now, granted, what’s the end number everyone’s after, is it a million is it $2 million, I don’t know, I just want people to know that

E E E E

it’s possible. Even if you’ve made financial mistakes in the past, even if you have credit card debt and student loan debt right now, I want to encourage people to attack it so they can start to move forward,” he said. Hogan grew up in rural Kentucky and made all the financial mistakes that the average person makes – credit cards, big house, expensive car, etc. He learned from those mistakes and shares his millionaire journey along with some of those he interviewed. “I wanted people to not only see the facts and the proof, because you can’t disagree with over 10,000 people – that’s statistically called ‘wrong’ – but from hearing how they walked through it. A lot of these people walked through some tough stuff because they’re regular everyday people, just like the people reading your column or me and the people that I’ve talked to. So we’re

Obituary

not talking about anyone that’s excluded from having life go on, we’re just talking about people who moved past life happening to them,” he said. Hogan’s life is an open book in his book. “I talk about the errors that I made, because why? Not because I want people to look and say ‘boy you were dumb,’ because I was, but more importantly I don’t want people to make those mistakes,” he said. “And also, the bigger reason, for the people that have made those mistakes, I don’t want them to think that’s the end. You see, where you are right now doesn’t have to be where you end up. We just need the right information and the right people to come around us to help us go in the right direction.” To find that direction, look for Hogan’s “Everyday Millionaire” book and be sure to check out his website, www. chrishogan360.com.

E E E E

THOMAS KERR STEWART BAPTIST CHURCH

HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994 2223 FM1092 • Missouri City, TX 77459 Ed Byrnes, Senior Pastor Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am • 6:00 pm Sunday Worship 10:45 am • 6:00 pm Wednesday: 7:00 pm Bible Study / AWANA “A Place To Call Home” - www.hbctx.org INDEPENDENT BAPTIST

GLORY BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-499-0440 211 Brand Lane Drive • Stafford, Texas 77477 Serving Stafford for 34 years Preaching the word - Singing the Hymns Worshipping the Lord Jesus Sunday 10:00 am Teaching - 11:00 am Preaching 6:00 pm Worshiping Wednesday 7:00 pm Praying www.gloryfbc.com METHODIST CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888 A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Sunday Worship in the Sanctuary Simple Service / Prayer & Communion: 8:15 am Contemporary: 9:30 am / Traditional: 10:55 am Sunday School for all ages available at 9:30 & 10:55 am. www.christchurchsl.org

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH • 281-499-3502 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX 77459 8:00 am: Chapel Worship 9:15 am: Sunday School For All Ages 10:30 am: Open Skies Worship in the Fellowship Hall 10:30 am: Sanctuary Worship For more information, please visit www.fumcmc.org

SUGAR LAND METHODIST CHURCH • 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Worship @ 8:30, 9:45 and 11:00 am Bible Study, all ages, @ 9:45 am www.sugarlandmethodist.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

MISSOURI CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-261-8944 2019 Bright Meadows Dr. - Missouri City, TX 77489 www.mocitycoc.org Sunday morning services: 10:15 am

(includes separate youth, bible hour and nursery services)

Sunday evening services: 5:00 pm Last Sunday 1:30 pm Bible Study (all ages): Sun 9:00 am & Wed 7:00 pm Iron Mens Bible Study 1st Monday 6:30 pm

STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 SUNDAY: Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:30 a.m. Afternoon Worship 5:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY : Bible Study 7:00 p.m. www.staffordchurchofchrist.org

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

SOUTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-499-2310 4200 Cartwright Road, Missouri City, 77459 Sunday School 9:00 am Fellowship & Coffee 10:00 am Worship 10:30 am www.southminpres.org LUTHERAN CHURCH

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS 281-242-7729 800 Brooks St., Sugar Land Sunday: 8:00 am Traditional Worship 9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Contemporary Worship (Nursery Available) 4:00 pm Spirit of Life Worship

Scripture of the week

"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." - 1 Timothy 6:12

AUGUST 30TH, 1930

Thomas Kerr (Tom) Stewart, 88, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, at his home in Sugar Land, Texas. Born in Lufkin, Texas, to Catharine and Tommy Stewart on Aug. 30, 1930, the family moved to Houston in 1940. He graduated in 1947 from Milby High School, and attended the University of Houston, receiving his degree in Industrial Psychology as well as an Army ROTC commission. As this was during the Korean War, Tom was called to active duty at Aberdeen Proving Ground, then served 16 months in Korea, a tour that included serving as commanding officer of an ammunition supply company. As Tom often said, “That’s where I grew up.” Upon his discharge from Korea as a second lieutenant, he began a 37-year career with Shell Oil Company, and returned to UH to earn an MBA. Tom married the love of his life, Patricia Virginia Thomas, on Aug. 30, 1956, in Broadway Baptist Church in Houston. The union marked the beginning of a loving, longlasting and tightly-knit family. Tom and Pat were married for 60 years when Pat went to heaven first in 2017. Tom is survived by sons Thomas Andrew “Andy” (wife Jean, daughter Caitlin), Stephen Reid “Steve” (wife Patty), and daughter Marilyn Kay “Lyn” — all residents of Sugar Land; and by sister Kayren Hudiburgh (husband Lester Zeidman) of San Francisco. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his

JANUARY 9TH, 2019

parents and his brother, Joseph Ward Stewart, of Arlington, Texas. His Shell public relations career began as Shellegram Editor at the Deer Park complex, with later assignments as National Media Manager in New York City and Southeast Regional Public Relations Manager in New Orleans. The Stewarts were in Louisiana long enough to have all three children graduate from LSU — a family of “FIGHTIN’ TIGERS.” Tom’s final corporate move was in 1979, back to corporate headquarters in Houston where he retired in 1991 as Head of Corporate Communications. Tom is an accredited member of the Public Relations Society of America and the PRSA College of Fellows. He is a past president of the Houston Chapter, former member of PRSA’s National Board of Ethics and served several terms as a chapter delegate to the PRSA National Assembly. In 2001, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Houston Chapter. Stewart is a Life Member and ardent supporter of the University of Houston. For several years,

he was an adjunct professor at UH, teaching Public Relations Campaigns and also serving on various Alumni committees. In his retirement years, he combined communications consulting, teaching and volunteer activities at Sugar Creek Baptist Church as an Usher, Deacon and Deacon Chairman. One of his favorite assignments was helping teach (or be taught) by a lovable group of 3-year olds in the preschool department at Sugar Creek. In summary, sprinkle in a lot of bowling, golfing, traveling, and enjoying the company of family and friends. Tom said, “God has been very good to me, much more than I deserved. I’ve had a wonderful life: full, rich and rewarding. So family, praise the Lord ... weep no more … and move on.” A visitation for the family will be held at The Settegast-Kopf Co. @ Sugar Creek, Friday, Jan. 25, from 5 to 8 p.m. Burial will take place at Morton Cemetery, 401 N. 2nd Street, in Richmond, Texas, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 26, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium at Sugar Creek Baptist Church, 13223 Southwest Freeway. For those wishing to honor Tom, please send donations to Sugar Creek Baptist Church, the Reach Beyond Campaign (building campaign) at 13333 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Tribute and or words of condolence can be left at www. settegastkopf.com.

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Wednesday, January 23, 2019 • PAGE

F ORT B END

H OME S HOWCASE Abbott, Patrick promise education, AnitA Milne 281-413-9732 property tax fixes at inaugural F ORT B END H OME S HOWCASE

BEARD REALTY GROUP

By Richard Lee

FOR THE FORT BEND STAR

Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick both reemphasized their determination to solve the state’s public school finance system, including property tax reform, as each man officially began his second term of office. Abbott and Patrick took the opportunity of their

Patrick said he asked these two members to introduce him to demonstrate his commitment to find a solution for education funding that crosses the aisle. “In Texas we’re different,” he said. “We work together for the people of Texas because that’s what you expect us to do. The elections are over ... for right now, and for the next 140 days, you expect us to do the work of the people.”

"We’re going to do this session what no one thinks we are capable of achieving. We are going to finally fix school finance in Texas." - Gov. Greg Abbott.

oath of office ceremony on a cold and cloudy day in Austin to lay out their priorities for the 86th Legislative Session before the assembled crowds on the north lawn of the Capitol building. “I want to make this very clear,” said Abbott. “We’re going to do this session what no one thinks we are capable of achieving. We are going to finally fix school finance in Texas.” Both were reiterating a promise they made alongside newly elected House Speaker Dennis Bonnen at a press conference last week, to work together to find a solution to one of the most complex and controversial issues in state government. Cooperation was the theme of Patrick’s address, both across party lines and between the two chambers. He was introduced by Flower Mound Sen. Jane Nelson and Houston Sen. John Whitmire, each the longest serving Republican and Democrat, respectively, in the Senate.

The Senate has already set aside billions for education and property tax reform in the proposed budget filed by Nelson, who also chairs the Senate Finance Committee. The Senate’s version of the budget includes $3.7 billion to pay for a $5,000 acrossthe-board pay raise for all public school teachers. It also earmarks $2.3 billion to reduce reliance on the current “Robin Hood” system of recapture, where property wealthy districts remit some property tax money to the state to be redirected to poorer districts, contingent on enabling legislation. Other budget highlights from the Senate include more money for mental health care access and women’s health care programs. It would dedicate all sporting goods sales

tax revenues to Texas Parks and Wildlife and the state Historical Commission, putting more money towards the state’s parks and historical sites than ever before. The Senate plan would maintain current benefits and premiums for TRS-Care, the program that provides health coverage to Texas’ retired teachers. Also filed on Tuesday was the supplemental budget bill, which totals $4.2 billion to balance difference between what lawmakers budgeted for 2018 and 2019 last session and actual expenses and revenue. The proposal would draw more than half of that, $2.5 billion, from the state’s Rainy Day Fund, and would cover Harvey-related disaster recovery and shortfalls in the state’s Medicaid program and employee and teacher retirement fund. In total, the Senate proposes $112 billion in non-dedicated general revenue to pay for state services over the next two years. That’s $3 billion less than the House proposal, also unveiled on Tuesday. Each chamber will start budget hearings soon and pass their own version of the budget, usually by mid-April. Then five members of each chamber will meet in conference committee to hammer out the differences between the two versions, and present a final, compromise budget to both chambers for a final vote before the 86th Session closes at the end of May.

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Texans and hold police offi“Bringing jobs and new cers accountable when their economic development to actions violate the public’s my district is one of my top the State Water Implementa- trust. Too many in my com- priorities and I plan on ention Fund for Texas Advisory munity have been victims to suring legislation passed the school to prison pipeline through this committee Committee. and this committee will al- benefits Senate District 13. low me to fight for them and This committee will also alBorris Miles “I want to thank the lieu- enact laws to end that pipe- low me to hold businesses line.” accountable for the impacts 01-23-18 ANITA MILNE tenant governor for the their facilities have on our committee assignments and neighborhoods, like rock and allowing me to build upon Health and Human Services concrete crushing facilities, the issues I have been work“I represent the world’s mixed batch plants and oil ing on for the last 12 years in the Texas Legislature,” said largest medical center, wells.” Senator Miles. “Each one of where innovation and medithese powerful committees cal miracles occur daily, but Nominations “This committee touches impacts Senate District 13 in at the same time a district where many lack the means every state agency and pubdifferent ways. I plan on utilizing these positions to fight for a daily checkup. I will lic university in Texas by for the issues impacting my continue to support and approving the leadership of champion women’s health, these entities, which procommunity.” accessible and affordable vide services to millions healthcare options and en- like getting a driver’s license Criminal Justice “I am honored to join sure that we do not cut vital or applying for Medicaid. this committee and fight for services that will impact our This committee allows me common sense criminal jus- seniors and most vulnerable to ensure that the best and brightest are leading our tice reforms, new ways to Texans.” boards and commissions, reduce recidivism, ensure and that they reflect the diour law enforcement receive Natural Resources and Economic Development verse makeup of our state.” the tools they need to protect

H SENATE, FROM PAGE 1

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Fungal infections involving the toenails and fingernails account for half of all nail problems. Onychomycosis (OM) is the medical term for common nail infections caused by fungi known collectively as dermatophytes. These fungi invade the surface of hair, skin, and nails. The nails become thick, discolored and often split. Infections are rarely life threatening, but cause varying degrees of pain, discomfort, and disfigurement. Without treatment, individuals may experience physical limitations (walking, standing, exercising), which can lead to a loss of self-esteem and may lead to employment issues. Poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, and diabetes can increase the potential for foot infections. Antifungal treatment for OM poses a challenge, balancing the drug’s side effects, effectiveness, and cost. Oral antifungal drugs can have negative effects on the heart or liver. Topical drugs have fewer side effects, but may not treat the infection as efficiently. Newly FDAapproved drugs Kerydin (tavaborole) and Jublia (eficonazole) provide better results than older products. Both are applied directly to the toenail once a day for 48 weeks. Clinical trials for both drugs reveal that Jublia completely cured a higher percent of those with toenail fungus compared to Kerydin.

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LEGALS REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (ITS) MASTER PLAN UPDATE

The City will award and give notice within one hundred and twenty (120) days after the opening date and time. NOTICE TO BIDDERS CITY OF SUGAR LAND SERVICE ENTRANCE REWORK & NEW SERVICE GROUND 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: CIP PROJECT NAME:

City of Sugar Land Service Entrance Rework & New Service Ground CIP PROJECT NUMBER: MU1712 LOCATION OF WORK:

111 Gillingham Lane, Sugar Land, TX 10405 Corporate Drive, Sugar Land, TX

Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUSA.com. Sealed bids 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, February 7, 2019, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, January 31, 2019, Lakeview Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. Questions regarding this bid must be submitted online to the www. CivCastUsa.com system or contact Mike Lai, P.E., at (713) 467-9961 on or before 5:00 p.m., Monday, February 4, 2019 The City will award and give notice within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.

CITY OF STAFFORD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the City of Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas and before the City Council of the City of Stafford, Texas on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas for the purpose of receiving testimony for and against the following: An ordinance amending Chapter 102 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the City’s Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, to rezone two (2) tracts of land totaling approximately 4.89 acres from the RCT, Residential, Commercial and Technology Zoning District to PD, Planned Development Zoning District, to allow for a residential development consisting of detached townhomes to be located at 605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford Texas 77477. Legal Description: Unrestricted Reserve A, Replat of Tract 68 Stafford Oaks Subdivision, and Commercial Reserve B, Stafford Oaks Subdivision, Replat of Lot 69. All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard. /s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

WEBSITE REDESIGN AND CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The City of Sugar Land seeks proposals for performing all work required for the following project in the City: RFP 2019-11: Website Redesign and Content Management for the City of Sugar Land Office of Economic Development Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering at Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the City of Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas and before the City Council of the City of Stafford, Texas on Wednesday, February 20, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas for the purpose of receiving testimony for and against the following: A proposal to adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 102 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the City’s Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, Section 102-83.1(B) – Additional Requirements by Use Type - “Hotels”, and deleting Section 102-171(H)(5) – Supplemental Regulations for Hotels. Copies of the changes are available for public inspection at City Hall. All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard. /s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary

NOTICE TO BIDDERS US 90A / HWY 59 HARDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City: ITB 2019-12: US 90A / HWY 59 HARDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE

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SPONSORSHIP REP Community minded individual for a local radio station. Work your own hours. Must be willing to initiate meetings with potential sponsors and network. High commissions. Vehicle necessary. Call Ray for more info and to apply 281-215-3626 LEGALS PUBLIC NOTICE

Clients of Sherry Grogan, APRN, PMHNP-BC at The Solace Center Riverstone: Please be advised that as of February 11, 2019, I will no longer be a clinician with Solace Psychiatry Riverstone. I am joining a new group practice at the following address:

H Keep up with all the weekly NEWS!

The Solace Center Sienna, 5777 Sienna Parkway, Suite 350, Missouri City, TX. 77459, Phone: 281-778-8715, Web: www.thesolacecentersienna. com. If you wish to continue having me as your clinician, please contact The Solace Center Sienna to schedule an appointment. I will begin practice at the new location immediately. The new group accepts most insurance plans. You may also continue your care through Solace Psychiatry Riverstone with a different clinician. I will have limited availability with Solace Psychiatry Riverstone for the next month. Please contact Solace Psychiatry Riverstone to let them know how you would like to proceed. Solace Psychiatry Riverstone has custodianship of your medical records. Those records may be obtained by completing an Authorization to Release Protected Health Information, available at either Solace Center, or online at https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/sites/default/files/files/divisions/ consumer-protection/hb300-Authorization-Disclose-Health-Info.pdf.

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, February 7, 2019, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

Questions regarding this proposal must be received by Monday, February 4, 2019 on or before 3:00 P.M. Please post all questions on Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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 31, 2019.

All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard.

The City will award the contract and give notice of award within ninety (90) calendar days after the opening date and time.

The City will award and give notice within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.

/s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary

Sealed proposals, one (1) original, four (4) copies, and one (1) electronic copy on flash drive 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 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 14, 2019, at which time proposals will be publicly opened and read. Proposals received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

• PART TIME RECEPTIONIST •

A proposal to adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 102 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the City’s Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, by granting a Specific Use Permit to Chemplast Inc., to allow for the construction of a 60,000 s.f. warehouse addition to an existing building within the MU, Mixed Use Zoning District, located approximately ¼ mile south of Adams Street, on the west side of Texas Parkway, further identified as 1002 Texas Parkway, Stafford Texas 77477.

Specifications and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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RFQ 2019-13: INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (ITS) MASTER PLAN UPDATE Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering at Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

Questions regarding this submittal must be received on or before 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 5, 2019. Please post all questions on Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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The City of Sugar Land seeks qualifications for performing all work required for the following project in the City:

Sealed submittals, one (1) original, eight (8) copies, and one (1) electronic copy on flash drive, 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 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 14, 2019, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Submittals received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

H FAIR, FROM PAGE 1 From checking in exhibits to set up, Pollard has been involved or behind the scenes to get things done. “Being involved with the fair means being there for our kids, the youth of this county. It is all about the kids,” said the mother of three adult children and grandmother to nine grandchildren. Her children and grandchildren have been livestock show exhibitors. Pollard became a board member in 2004. “Before I became a director, I helped start Cowboy Camp. We would feed the cowboys and the rodeo personnel of both the youth rodeo and the PRCA rodeo. We served up chicken and

H BOUNDARY, FROM PAGE 1 ter Plan. We have heard concerns regarding the longterm investments in these schools to assure improved student achievement and increased building utilization, and I can see where we have fallen short in effectively engaging these communities in the planning efforts thus far. While we are asking for

H HOTEL, FROM PAGE 1 is able to fund the high level of services expected by residents while maintaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates. “Several years ago, citizens developed a vision for the future that included this project, and we are now at the brink of adding an asset that will improve the quality of life and financial well-being of our city,” said Director of Economic Development Elizabeth Huff. “Just like the other projects we are continuing to pursue and support - such as a worldclass light industrial business park on the former Central Unit prison property and the transformation of the Imperial Sugar refinery site into a thriving regional activity center - we fully expect this venue will spur additional commercial and retail growth

dumplings, brisket, and stew. So, now as a director, I am still helping to serve hot meals for the entertainers and their bands, and working with wonderful caterers for many of our fair receptions,” she said. James Duke, last year’s president, welcomed Pollard officially to the position after his successful year. “I am thrilled to be able to support our kids, give our community a fair to enjoy, as I did, and as my family did, growing up. It is a tradition for me to come to the fair and I can only hope to help inspire other families to do the same. Whether it is the livestock shows, the fair food, the rodeo action, or the carnival rides I want our fair to be a place where all families can enjoy,” said Pollard.

Pollard’s grandfather was involved in the founding years of the fair, and her uncle served on the board in the 1970s. Pollard and her husband Charles reside in Richmond, and she is a proud alumnus of Lamar High School. Her love for country music, western lifestyle, and her deep family-fair roots have given her a lifetime of grooming for the role of fair president. She has served on several boards and as a volunteer with Lamar Educational Awards Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and supports numerous charities and organizations throughout the community. The Fort Bend County Fair is set for Sept. 27 to Oct. 6.

the approval of Early College and P-TECH programs at WHS, MHS and HHS, we will continue to work with our school communities to determine what other programming options could benefit our students. In closing, I want to acknowledge how appreciative I am that the community has joined with us in this journey. I am very aware that consider-

ing boundary changes is not easy, but we have committed to doing so with our community in a way that honors the engagement process and is responsive to the expectations set forth by our community and the leadership of our Board of Trustees. I wish you a safe and relaxing weekend. Sincerely, Charles Dupre

that further establishes Sugar Land as one of the strongest economies in the region.” Consistent with the established practice of protecting the city’s business and fi-

nancial interests, the city envisions the selection of a private development partner who will bring financial resources and construction expertise to build and oper-

Wednesday, January 23, 2019 • PAGE

H RANCH, FROM PAGE 3 steer-wrestling, tie-down calf-roping, ladies’ steer undecorating and team roping. Children’s rodeo events include muttonbusting, barrel racing, breakaway and tie-down. The slack starts at 9 a.m. with the grand entry at 6:30 p.m. and show time at 7 p.m. “Our committee has worked tirelessly for

months to ensure a funfilled, exciting day here at the ranch,” GreenwoodSharp said. “You won’t want to miss it!” Pre-sale tickets are currently available online. General rodeo tickets include admission to the arena only; box seats include admission to the arena and historical park. Pre-sale general admission cost is $5 for children ages four through 12 and $15 for adults. Box seats, which include admission to the

historical park, are $12 for children ages four through 12 and $30 for adults. Atthe-gate general admission tickets are $10 for children ages four through 12 and $20 for adults. At-the-gate box seats, which include admission to the park, are $17 for children ages four through 12 and $35 for adults. For more information, visit www.georgeranch. or g/pr og r a m s - e ve nt s/ george-ranch-rodeo/ or call 281-343-0218.

The inaugural George Ranch Rodeo will honor the legacy of black cowboys, including brothers James and Willie Thomas (pictured here). (Submitted photo)

ate a 350-room nationally branded hotel and a convention convention/conference of up to 50,000 square feet as recommended by a previously completed feasibility study.

Adjacent structured parking is anticipated, as well as the reservation of space within the overall site for a community cultural arts venue - the fifth venue recommended by

citizens in 2007. For more information on the project or to download the RSI, visit www. sugarlandtx.gov/hotelcc. The deadline for submittals is March 15 at noon.

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WELCOME NEIGHBOR! With roots dating back over 50 years, Capital Bank enjoys the distinction of being one of the Houston area’s oldest independent banks. Today we offer a full spectrum of financial products and services at locations in Baytown, Deer Park, Jacinto City, Pasadena, Pearland and NOW IN SUGAR LAND. Our desire is to be responsive to your needs. At Capital Bank, you’ll always have access to a local decision maker and friendly, attentive associates that will greet you by name. Capital Bank has become the community bank of choice for many of our friends and neighbors.

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THE STAR

PAGE 10 • Wednesday, January 23, 2019

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR FORT BEND COMMUNITY CALENDAR IS FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS.

Deadline is noon every Friday. Please keep wording to a minimum. Answer the “5 W’s” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to Editor@FortBendStar.com or mail to: Fort Bend Star, 3944 Bluebonnet Drive, Stafford, Texas 77477. MONTH OF JANUARY ESL CONVERSATION CIRCLES

Fort Bend County Libraries present a program for individuals who would like a place to practice their English language and conversation skills. The circles will take place at six locations in the Fort Bend County library system in January. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-341-2652, or any of the branch libraries.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 23 BULLET JOURNALING

Mamie George Branch Library will present the class for teens, 3-4 p.m., 320 Dulles Ave. in Stafford. Young adults in grades 9 through 12 will discover how a bullet journal can be used to keep ideas and tasks organized. Materials for this program are provided through the Friends of the Mamie George Branch Library. Free and open to the public. Seating is limited, reservations are required. Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call 281-238-2880.

KICK THE SUGAR HABIT

First Colony Branch Library will present the class, 6:30 p.m., 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Learn the effects of sugar on your body and why it can be challenging to eliminate sugar in your diet. Get tips on how to transform sugar cravings and adopt a healthier diet. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2800 or 281-633-4734.

THURSDAY, JAN. 24 HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL

JAN. 28 - FEB. 1 CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK

Fort Bend County Libraries will continue its tradition of welcoming newborns to the wonders of books. Fort Bend County babies born during this week may receive a special baby book bag, courtesy of the Friends of Fort Bend County Library. Each bag contains a book, a bib, a special certificate, a list of suggested reading for children, and information on parenting and on library services. The baby book bags will be distributed to babies born during that week at area Fort Bend County hospitals, but ALL Fort Bend County babies born that week are eligible to receive one, while supplies last. Families should call the Youth Services department, at 281-633-4762, to receive their book bag.

FRIDAY, FEB. 1 THROUGH APRIL 15 FREE INCOME-TAX PREPARATION

Fort Bend County Libraries will host AARP, who will provide assistance for low-income taxpayers at several library locations. Income-tax forms are no longer be available at the libraries, but may be printed from the libraries’ computers. Please bring a photo ID; Social Security card(s) for self, spouse, and all dependents; last year’s tax return; W-2, 1099s, and any other compensation received in 2018; and any other documents necessary to complete your return. Free and open to the public, for more information and locations please call 281-633-4734.

SATURDAY, FEB. 2 BARGAIN BOOK SALE

Ridge Point High School Fine Arts Department presents Disney’s Original High School Musical. Jan. 24, 25, 26, 31 and Feb. 1, 2 Showtime: 7 p.m. Pre-sale online $12 Adults and $8 students at www.rphstheatrebooster.com . Tickets available at the door $15 Adults and $10 students.

First Colony Friends of the Library will hold the sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 2121 Austin Parkway. Paperbacks, hardbacks, DVDs, children’s/youth books, nonfiction at bargain prices. Donations are accepted any time the library is open. Proceeds from the sale benefit the library and its programs.

THURSDAY, JAN. 24-26 GRAND HOTEL

TUESDAY, FEB. 5, 12, 19 AND 26 FREE LEGAL INFO RESOURCES

The Clements High School Theatre Company invites you to Berlin in 1928. The world is between wars, the stock market is booming, and Berlin is the center of high life and optimism rules the day. But underneath it all, much is happening with Grand Hotel’s illustrious clients. All performances are in the Clements High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 each at the door for all shows. 7 p.m. each evening.

SATURDAY, JAN. 26 PRE-MARRIAGE BOOT CAMP

Pitcher Ministries will host at Freedom Center Church, 2303 FM 1092 Rd., Missouri City, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Receive $60 off Texas Marriage License, become equipped with powerful skills and tools to navigate through communication, conflict, money, intimacy, male and female differences and much more. $30/couple. For more information, call 832-945-5323 or visit www. pitcherministries.org .

WOMEN’S WELLNESS: ALL OF YOU

Christ United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women of Christ Church (UMW) are sponsoring a free health event for women of all ages, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land. Learn to rejuvenate yourself: mind, body, and spirit. Presentations on weight gain, preventive health, nutrition, relaxation aromatherapy, balancing a busy life with a healthy lifestyle, battling stress, mental health, and more. Free continental breakfast and free child care with a reservation. A boxed lunch can be ordered for $8, or you can bring your own. To register, visit www.christchurchsl. org/wellness.

POOCH P.A.D.

The circus themed Pet Awareness Day. Noon – 3 p.m., at the Missouri City Animal Shelter, 1923 Scanlon Road. Learn the importance of proper pet care and ownership and even adopt a pet at the event. Various activities, vendor booths and food will be available. Volunteers are needed. Call 281-403-8500 or visit http://bit.ly/2BOmeNI for more info or to volunteer.

MONDAY, JAN. 28 FAMILY READING CHALLENGE

Begins and continue through March 2. Fort Bend County Libraries’ program is designed to encourage families to read, learn, and have fun together. Families participate in the program by reading books, logging the number of minutes they read, and earning virtual badges. All Fort Bend County families are eligible to participate. There is no charge to join. For more information, call 281-6334734, or the library branch nearest you.

INTERNATIONAL COFFEE HOUR

Hosted at George Memorial Library, 9 a.m., 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Share a cup of coffee, and chat with friends at a social hour celebrating the multitude of diverse cultures found in Fort Bend County. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-342-4455 or 281-633-4734.

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Fort Bend County Libraries’ Law Librarian Andrew Bennett will present a series of “Pro Se Basics” demonstrations of the informational legal resources that are available to the public at the Fort Bend County Law Library. The introductory classes will take place on Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m., in Conference Room C of the law library, located in Room 20714 in the Fort Bend County Justice Center. Free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register, visit www.fortbend. lib.tx.us, click on Events, select Law Library, and find the program, or call 281-341-3718.

TUESDAY, FEB. 5 JOB SEARCH SURVIVAL TIPS

First Colony Branch Library will present a free, two-part series, 5:30-8:30 p.m., 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. The series will continue on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the same place and time. Different topics are discussed each night. Learn tips on writing a better resumé, researching prospective employers, interviewing and nonverbal skills, making a great first impression, networking, and much more. Free and open to the public. To register visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, or call 281-238-2800.

THURSDAY, FEB. 14TH FOR THE KIDS WE LOVE”

Join us for the Valentine’s Day Autism Awareness Luncheon, It’s a labor of love! Hope For Three Autism Advocates, is holding its annual luncheon at Safari Texas Ranch, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., presented by Mary and Tom Solcher. Guest speaker Grant Maniér encourages support in raising awareness, acceptance and inclusion for local families and children living with autism spectrum disorder. Individual tickets and table sponsorships available. To give a gift of hope or serve as a sponsor, visit www.hopeforthree.org or call 281-245-0640.

KATHARINE HAYHOE, SPEAKS ABOUT PLANET EARTH

Join AAUW at 6:30 p.m., Wharton County Junior College, 14004 University Blvd., Sugar Land. The meeting will focus on love of our planet Earth, Ms. Hayhoe, atmospheric scientist, professor of political science, and director of the Climate Science Center, will share “The most important thing you can do about climate change is talk about it.” Free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://fortbend-tx.aauw.net/.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7 LOVE: INSANITY VS INSIGHT

Singles are invited to Houston Baptist University - Belin Chapel, 7502 Fondren Road, Houston, 4-4:50 p.m. The first step in building a successful relationship is learning about yourself. What do Albert Einstein, Malcolm Forbes and Benjamin Franklin have to do with love? Join us and see what you might uncover. Free and open to the public. For more information, call832-945-5323 or visit www. pitcherministries.org.

WEIGHT LOSS SEMINAR

Join Dr. Nabil Tariq at 6 p.m. for a weight-loss seminar to learn about the different programs offered at the Houston Methodist Weight Management Center, get tips on grocery

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THURSDAY, FEB. 21 FREE HEART HEALTH SCREENINGS

Schedule an appointment to learn more about your 10-year risk for heart disease and receive cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. Brazos Pavilion Conference Center on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land campus. Registration required. For more information or to register, visit events.houstonmethodist.org/heart-sl or call 281-274-7500.

SATURDAY, FEB. 23 LET’S GROOVE TO THE DISCO BEAT

Help support the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas at the Safari Texas Ranch, 6:30 p.m., 11627 FM 1464, Richmond. Presented by Fred Mabel R. Parks Foundation. Individual tickets and sponsorships are available. For more information, visit fbbctx.org or call 281-240-3800.

ONGOING WHILE WE’RE WAITING SUPPORT GROUP

For Bereaved Parents - grieving the loss of a child at any age. Meets the thir Thursday of every month, 7 p.m., at the First Colony Church of Christ, 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land. For more information, call 281-4132484

BINGO AT THE VFW

Help support our veterans! Play bingo at Post 3903 every Tuesday and Saturday night at 7:15 p.m. 1903 First St, Rosenberg. All prizes paid in cash. Pull Tabs, $200 Bonanza, $300 Coverall, $750 Coverall, kitchen & bar service.

RICHMOND-ROSENBERG ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementias are invited to attend the first Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 400 Jackson Street 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.

QUAIL VALLEY WINE SOCIETY

Meets the fourth Wednesday of every month for education of wines, food pairings and fellowship at the Quail Valley City Centre, 2880 LaQuinta, Missouri City. For more information, call 281-437-6798 or jackipauley@comcast. 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 to 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 281633-4734.

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 “I read to a cat” bookmark and be eligible to adopt a cat for 50 perecent off that day. Held 1:30- 4:30 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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shopping and meal planning, and speak with a dietitian, exercise specialist and bariatric surgeon. Registration is required. Visit events.houstonmethodist.org/weightlosssl or call 281-274-7500 for more information or to register.

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