Abbott easing restrictions across state - Page 2
Volunteers were out in force Saturday at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center for the "Share Your Blessings" food drive. Read more about it inside today's edition on Page 3. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)
WEDNESDAY • APRIL 29, 2020
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Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 88
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Unsung heroes worthy of spotlight during crisis By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
There is not a lot to be certain about nowadays if you are a resident of Fort Bend County or the Greater Houston region. Do we or do we not have to wear masks in public? How long before we can go back to work? Will we ever be able to go back to our favorite wa-
tering hole and blow off some steam? All of that uncertainty is on account of COVID-19, the infectious upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus that has brought some people's worlds crashing down around them as they are laid off or lose a loved one. But here's one thing of which we can be certain: We have many unsung heroes
on the front line of the COVID-19 battle in Fort Bend County. They may be doctors or nurses, police officers or firefighters. They may even be the one who rings you up whenever you make your grocery store run for food, bottled water and toilet paper. In today's edition, we took a look into the jobs and lives of people in Fort Bend County who are serving the residents of this county, standing on the
front line and putting their own health at risk to do so. So take a few minutes today to read the stories of those who will never put themselves in the limelight, but absolutely deserve to be there. We dug into the lives of Sugar Land doctor Kabir Rezvankhoo, Sugar Land police officer Gregory Suter, Jonathon Sabrsula of the Stafford Fire Department and Sienna Plantantion H-E-B's
Betty Granados, also known as "Quick Trigger Betty." These people, in many ways, are just like you and me. They love this county and would do anything to protect it and keep it thriving. We hope you enjoy the stories in today's paper. And if you see any of these people around the neighborhood, be sure to give them a hearty "thank you" for their service.
Faces of our Front Line 'Quick Trigger Betty' sees pandemic help as God-given responsibility
Rezvankhoo making COVID-19 treatment his personal mission By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Kabir Rezvankhoo knows that if he doesn’t do what his job demands, the people in his care would not have a fighting chance against COVID-19. It’s that and more which drives him forward even as he becomes drained by the barrage of cases in Fort Bend County and his quest to find a solution. “If I don’t do what I do, then these patients have no hope. I’m not OK with just letting people die,” he said.
“To me – philosophically, morally and emotionally – I’ll do my absolute best for anyone that’s in front of me.” Rezvankhoo, a Sugar Land resident who specializes in emergency care at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the Texas Medical Center, is on the front line of the county’s battle against COVID-19. Much of his time since the pandemic began has been in the hospital’s intensive care unit, treating patients with the most severe symptoms of the
By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Betty Granados doesn’t live anywhere near Sienna Plantation or its local H-E-B store. But that doesn’t mean the community has become any less like family. She said treating customers like relatives remains crucial in the H-E-B’s efforts to comfort and protect the people who traipse to the store daily during the COVID-19 pandemic even as they battle their own personal struggles. “It gets emotional, but I know that I have a responsi-
SEE REZVANKHOO PAGE 7
bility to God,” Granados said. “My children are all OK, so I need to help others who need it.” Granados, who has worked at H-E-B’s Sienna Plantation location for two years, heads up the store’s COVID-19 action team. From the moment customers enter the store to the moment they exit, Granados and her sanitation team have likely played a role in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, the infectious upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus. “Even before the announcement was made, we knew
SEE BETTY PAGE 8
SFD’s Sabrsula adjusting to COVID-19 presents new new normal during pandemic frontier for Suter, SLPD By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Each morning when he clocks in, Jonathon Sabrsula is subjected to a baseline temperature reading before entering the Stafford Fire Department’s Station 1. If he has an abnormally high temperature, he would immediately be sent home or put into selfquarantine. That’s just one of several sweeping changes that have been necessitated in Sabrsula’s life and job description at Stafford FD, more than 18 years after he started there. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the station is also thoroughly cleaned and disinfected from top to bottom before any firefighter enters the station. “Our whole routine has changed,” he said. At SFD, firefighters have always worn gloves and eye protection as well as cloth masks to protect against smoke inhalation when responding to calls such as automobile or structure fires. However, first respond-
ers such as Sabrsula must now wear protective gowns and don specialized N95 masks on calls. “We use gowns everywhere now – we’ve usually never worn gowns on calls before,” Lt. Matthew Ricks said. Face shields are also a necessity for all personnel in order to respond to calls as protocols have evolved in light of COVID-19, the infectious disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus. As Sabrsula put it, that’s just their new normal in accompanying Fort Bend County EMS to any scene. “The whole pandemic has changed the way we’ve done things in the fire service. We haven’t really taken a step back, we just need to make sure we limit such exposure,” he said. “If one or two people can handle it, then that’s all that goes in. If more are needed, more go in. We’re more adapting to what they need instead of everyone going into the scene.” The mindset of firefighters hasn’t changed, according to Sabrsula. They are still preparing
for the worst-case scenario as a precaution before assessing the situation once they’re on the scene of a fire, or a call related to a mental health issue. Once they’re home, he said it’s much the same. Sabrsula has taken to doing his laundry at the station and changing before he goes home in order to protect his family at their home in Rosenberg. He has also been paying closer attention to the cleanliness of his hands as well as the equipment he uses at the station each day, even though he said it’s never been a duty he neglected. It’s not a drastic switch, Sabrsula said. It’s just a way of life for now as he gears toward a new type of responsibility. “I don’t want to say there hasn’t been anything difficult, but I think that being who we are, we’re adapting to what we’re coming up against,” he said. “(As firefighters) we adapt all the time, so this is second nature to us. We have a new normal. We’re just adapting and overcoming.”
By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Having been an officer with the Sugar Land Police Department for more than a decade, Sgt. Gregory Suter thought he had seen it all. But over the last two months, he and the rest of the SLPD have undergone a crash course in learning to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic that is unlike anything he’s ever seen. “We generally have contingency planning done for just about anything,” he said. “There’s not much that comes up in police work that we or another agency have not seen. It’s almost a checklist that we can go through. “But this is novel to us just like it is to the rest of the world.” Suter, who has been with SLPD since 2009 and served as a Patrol Sergeant for the agency since 2010, is one of dozens of officers who patrol six distinct beats around the city. As the outbreak has neared its peak in Fort Bend County,
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he said the types of calls have changed as well. Fewer and further between are typical criminal calls. Spiking are calls related to domestic violence and mental health issues, according to Suter. There are now certain calls, such as for property disputes, that officers are allowed to take over the phone to reduce the risk of COVID-19 contamination, while criminal calls and welfare checks still require an officer onsite. “It’s providing protection for both parties, but we’re still getting the police services done,” Suter said. “We still respond to certain calls, but we’ve given our officers tiered guidelines and protective gear to help navigate that process.” In addition to wearing gloves and N95 masks, gone is much of the typical face-to-face interaction between officer and resident, which Suter said has been challenging at times. “It used to be where if we were driving through a neighborhood and kids
were playing in the cul-desac, we could stop and let the kids climb around and explore the patrol car,” he said. “Now it’s just more of a wave or a verbal communication.” However, Suter said there have been instances where he and his fellow officers have experienced more interaction with the public. He said there is a renewed focus on patrolling parks, which are safe places for people to go, within each beat. “Just to see officers there with that wave and see that we’re around – even if we can’t physically walk up and shake hands with people anymore – is good for them,” he said. Suter is especially cautious when he returns home, because he does not want to expose his wife and kids. But decontamination has always been part of police work for him, which slightly eases the transition.
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PAGE 2 • Wednesday, April 29, 2020
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Governor to let stay-at-home order lapse, allow several businesses to reopen By Adam Zuvanich AZUVANICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Social distancing restrictions are being eased across Texas as the number of COVID-19 cases appears to level off in communities such as Fort Bend County. Gov. Greg Abbott announced Monday that he will allow his statewide stay-at-home order to expire as scheduled on Thursday. Beginning Friday, the governor said he’s allowing
businesses such as restaurants, movie theaters and museums to reopen their doors to customers but with limited capacities. As part of Phase 1 of his plan to reopen the state and boost its struggling economy, Abbott said retail stores, malls and libraries also will be allowed to reopen Friday as long as they limit building occupancy to no more than 25 percent. Abbott said sole proprietors will be allowed to resume operations under his executive order, and
Abbott
citizens can play outdoor sports such as golf and tennis as long as the activities include no more than four
people. “We’ll open in a way that uses safer guidelines for businesses, for employees as well as for their customers,” Abbott said. “We’re not just going to open up and hope for the best.” Abbott said all of his executive orders related to COVID-19 carry penalties including a fine of up to $1,000 or up to 180 days in jail. He also said they supersede local orders, such as those made by Fort Bend County Judge KP George,
who last month issued a stay-at-home order that is in effect through the end of April. As of Monday, county officials had reported 957 COVID-19 cases among county residents, with 22 people having died from the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus. Abbott said his plan to reopen is being guided by data and advice from doctors and will be reevaluated in the coming weeks, at which point he could enter Phase 2
of his plan by allowing more businesses to open. If that happens, and COVID-19 remains contained, Abbott said the businesses that reopen Friday could increase to 50 percent occupancy later in May. Abbott said gyms, salons, barbershops and bars will remain closed. For more information about the governor’s plan, visit gov.texas.gov/opentexas. Follow us on social media @FortBendStar
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A volunteer unloads food from a car during Saturday's "Share Your Blessings" food drive at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)
Food drive helps area nonprofits By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Dozens of volunteers took time out of their Saturday at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center in Sugar Land to help several Fort Bend County nonprofit organizations replenish food and hygiene supplies that have been needed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The “Share Your Blessings” food drive was a joint effort between the Aga Khan Council of the Southwest United States, the city of Sugar Land and Fort Bend Interfaith Community. Volunteers were on hand accepting food and hygiene items to support Fort Bend ISD, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry and R ic h mond - R o s e n b e r g Helping Hands. “In light of the current environment, we thought it would be ap-
propriate due to the need of these organizations in our community,” said Alim Adatia with the Aga Khan Council. “Whether it’s small or large, I think there’s a need across the board – hopefully this can do some small part in alleviating that for the folks who need it.” The nonprofits that typically thrive on community donations have encountered obstacles in fundraising and supplies, according to Adatia. “Everyone’s in a time when we’re experiencing something that we never have before,” he said. “I think this highlights and brings to light some of these issues in a more drastic way.” Sugar Land city council member Naushad Kermally echoed the sentiment Saturday as he helped unload boxes of food and supplies. “The beautiful thing for me as a city coun-
cil member is that this stuff stays in our city and our county. People think there’s not poverty in our city, but there is,” he said. “There are folks lining up at shelters and food supply is low, so it’s good that we’re able to have folks within our city and county who give to those who are less fortunate.” Adatia said that’s the essence of “Share Your Blessings,” which is a variation of the Aga Khan Council’s “Share Your Holidays” drive around Christmas time. The goal of Saturday’s drive, which was pulled together in about a week, was to raise 25,000 pounds of food and hygiene products for those impacted by the virus. Fort Bend health officials had reported 957 cases of COVID-19 as of Monday afternoon, including 22 deaths caused by the disease.
‘Sugar Land 95’ to be included in statewide ethnic studies class By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
High school students all over Texas will have the chance to learn about the 95 African Americans whose remains were unearthed two years ago and reburied last fall at the site of Fort Bend ISD’s James Reese Career and Technical Center in Sugar Land. FBISD announced Friday that the story of the “Sugar Land 95,” who are believed to have worked at a local plantation as part of the state’s convict leasing program in the late 1800s and early 1900s, will be included in the curriculum and corresponding TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) for a new ethnic studies course recently approved by the Texas
State Board of Education (SBOE). The course will be offered as an elective in public Texas high schools, including FBISD, beginning in the 2020-21 school year. “I am proud to say that the Sugar Land 95 will be appropriately recognized and honored as students across Texas learn this important part of history,” FBISD Superintendent Charles Dupre said in a news release. FBISD said Chassidy Olainu-Alade, its curriculum coordinator, developed the TEKS for the state and will work with fellow district staffers to develop a local curriculum for the course, with the intent to offer it to FBISD students as an elective course worth half a credit beginning next year. The district also will create and provide
instructional resources to other districts throughout Texas, according to FBISD. FBISD reinterred the Sugar Land 95’s remains late last year amid criticism from members of the community and local elected officials, who said the district should have sought guidance from the court system and worked with Fort Bend County before doing so. FBISD and county officials had previously worked with Texas lawmakers to amend a state law to allow the county to operate a cemetery. The county and FBISD initially discussed a plan in which the district would transfer land to the county and help pay for the reinternment of the remains, but negotiations stalled and FBISD reburied the remains on its own.
Darian Butler (center, holding box) poses with staff at CHI St. Luke's Hospital in Sugar Land. Butler and David Long recently gave 700 cookies to the hospital. (Contributed photo)
High school friends team up to give cookies to area hospital By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
David Long and Darian Butler have gone in somewhat different directions since graduating from Willowridge High School in 1994. However, their paths recently crossed again as the pair collaborated to provide some relief to the medical staff at a Sugar Land hospital as it combats the COVID-19 pandemic. An executive for BP Oil’s Houston office, Butler also runs Missouri City-based bakery DB Delectables, while Long is a data systems manager for the Harris Center for Mental Health. They said they took a break from their jobs April 7 and teamed up to deliver 700 cookies and treats to the staff at CHI St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, where Long’s sister, Dawn, works as a nurse. “It’s just doing the right thing to thank them for what they’ve been doing. I love giving. It makes me feel good,” Butler said. “I’ve always thought that it’s just like my momma told me – always be blessed to be a blessing to others. That was it right there.” Long said he first brainstormed the idea for a collaboration with his old high school friend in mid-March while he was in the midst of forming an organization called Local Love that aims to do community outreach for first responders in Fort Bend County. “It all kind of happened at the same time. Like most people, we’re kind of sitting at home feeling like you want to do something, but your hands are tied from not being able
to do anything because of the limitations,” he said. “I wanted to do this initially to help the first responders, then it popped into my head that we could help a small local business as well. … Darian works hard, and he’s a great guy.” At his sister’s suggestion of sweet treats, Long knew to call his old high school pal Darian with the dessert business. Sometime in late March, Long used his personal Facebook page to launch a fundraiser for Local Love to buy the cookies. Within 24 hours, he said it raised $500 – enough to buy about 600 cookies from DB Delectables. Butler said he threw in 100 extra cookies as
a “thank you.” “I look at it like this – (first responders) put their lives on the line to save our lives – I’ll never have a problem doing this at all,” Butler said. “Here’s a gesture to just say thank you for what you’re doing. It’s not about the business – I do it to be kind.” Butler and Long dropped off the treats at the hospital and said the staff there was appreciative. “To be able to do this for a small business and a friend of mine as well as the fine people of the hospital was a phenomenal experience,” Long said. “I think everyone was elated about it.”
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THE STAR
PAGE 4 • Wednesday, April 29, 2020
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Let’s give more than a nod to front-line workers We pass by strangers on the street every day, usually unaware of what they do for a living. But some of them could be helping to protect our wellbeing, or save our sanity, amidst an unprecedented pandemic. So this week, I’d like to shine a light on some of those generally under-theradar people who are on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19 in Fort Bend County and encourage our readers to do the same. In this week’s paper, you’ll read firsthand accounts from a medical professional, grocery store worker, doctor and firefighter who are part of our community. Dr. Kabir Rezvankhoo’s view is from the Intensive Care Unit at Houston Meth-
Landan Kuhlmann LEAD REPORTER
odist Sugar Land Hospital, where he has dealt with severe cases of COVID-19. Betty Granados, an Alvin resident who considers the Missouri City community a second home, is making sure all surfaces are clean at the H-E-B in Sienna Plantation as part of what she feels is a duty to put others’ needs ahead of her own. Meanwhile, Sgt. Greg-
A Helping Hand from
themselves – and their own loved ones – at risk so others can be less so. They’re experiencing this firsthand so that many of those residents they serve can be spared from it. So let’s show them our appreciation in ways that will have impacts extending far beyond the end of the COVID-19 pandemic – which is hopefully soon rather than later. There will be public announcements and Facebook posts thanking employees like them for their work – but for all their good intentions, those gestures simply feel too impersonal to me. We need to do more when it’s feasible to do so – because these men and women deserve so much more that cookiecutter celebrations. One example of such gestures will be present in this week’s edition. Darian
Butler of DB Delectables bakery in Missouri City teamed up with an old high school friend earlier this month to provide about 700 cookies for the medical staff at CHI St. Luke’s Hospital in Sugar Land as a “thank you” for their service and a reminder that they’re not in it alone. But our gestures don’t necessarily need to be grandiose, either. It could be something such as donating N95 masks and other personal protection equipment for first responders to wear when interacting with potentially infected patients. Or, it could be a simple daily wave and smile at your local police officer patrolling your neighborhood. I’ve always felt that the most meaningful gestures come from the heart. So do what comes naturally.
If you’re artistically inclined, maybe create some signage to place in your front yard so any officer patrolling can see it and be uplifted in their fight. Should you be more of a tangible, face-to-face kind of person, maybe thank that neighbor you know works at a local grocery store or in the medical field. All while practicing social distancing, of course. Whatever it is that inspires you, I’d ask for all of our readers this week to consider taking some sort of action to recognize the responders who have become so crucial in fighting COVID-19 in our own communities. After all, with those protective gowns billowing behind them like capes, they may as well be our superheroes during this crisis.
Fort Bend County opens second free COVID-19 testing site in Sugar Land
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Understanding Cerebral Palsy
ory Suter is patrolling the neighborhoods with the Sugar Land Police Department, which he says is taking a number of precautionary measures and doing its best to maintain a personal connection with residents while also keeping them safe. Additionally, a member of the Stafford Fire Department has been up close and personal on several calls for residents who wound up having COVID-19, bringing the pandemic close to home. As of Monday, the upperrespiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus had infected at least 950 people in Fort Bend County and caused the deaths of at least 22. And yet, these brave men and women are diving headfirst into the fray. Their actions are worthy of admiration and recognition because they are willingly putting
Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by brain damage that affects movement, muscle tone, and the ability to move in a coordinated way. Cerebral palsy is caused by a problem during early brain development. Problems may be caused by infections, lack of oxygen, severe head injuries, or genetic mutations. Symptoms of cerebral palsy may include stiff muscles, slow movement, difficulty walking, spontaneous movement, and difficulty speaking. Medications that can decrease the tightness of muscles may be used to manage this condition. OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) may be used if muscle tightness is only in one muscle group. Side effects may include headache, dizziness, and nausea. If the whole body is affected, drugs such as diazepam (Valium), dantrolene (Dantrium) and baclofen (Gablofen) may be used. These drugs work to relax stiff and tight muscles. Side effects of diazepam and dantrolene include weakness and sleepiness. Side effects of baclofen may include nausea and sleepiness.
By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Fort Bend County Judge KP George and county public health officials announced Monday that they opened a new COVID-19 testing site in the Sugar Land area. The county’s initial free testing site in Rosenberg also remains available for testing. The new site will be operating weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Satur-
day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and have the capacity to administer 200 tests per day, according to the county, with results being made available after 3-5 days. Workers from
AccessHealth and LabCorp will conduct tests on site and provide results. Any Fort Bend resident can make an appointment to be tested whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms of the infectious upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus. As of Monday, health officials had reported 957 cases of COVID-19 in Fort Bend County and 22 deaths related to the disease. For prescreening, residents can visit uthtmc.az1.
qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_0ILT5XuV XN8g vhH or call 281-238-2363. Residents must contact the county to receive a personal unique testing ID, which must be brought to the site on the day and time of their appointment, the county said. “We expect that the increase in testing capabilities will help everyone better protect themselves and their families and flatten the curve here,” George said in a news release.
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Wednesday, April 29, 2020 • PAGE
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County Judge 'strongly' recommends masks when in public By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Fort Bend County Judge KP George issued new guidance Thursday for slowing
the spread of COVID-19, saying he “strongly” recommends that residents wear face coverings when going out in public. COVID-19 has infected at least 950 people in Fort Bend
County and caused 22 deaths as of Monday afternoon according to the county. County officials say cloth face coverings can be created from household items or from common materi-
C LASS I F I E D
als such as a T-shirt, scarf, bandana or handkerchief. Everyone over the age of 2 is encouraged to wear a mask that covers their nose and mouth when entering a store or business as well as when
A DS
they utilize any form of public transportation. Essential workers are advised to wear a mask in public and when performing job duties in the presence of others, while the county said
parents or guardians are responsible for masking children between 2-10 years old. For more specifics, visit fbchealth.org/ guidance-on-masks-covering-nose-and-mouth/.
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Go to www.Leedo.com to email resume Leedo Cabinetry Location: 600 Sam Bishkin Rd, El Campo, TX 77437 Leedo is an equal opportunity employer M/F/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.
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LEGALS Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Wine and Beer Retailer Permit by Trill Taco LLC, Tradename Trill Taco to be located at 2887 Dulles Avenue, Missouri City, Fort Bend County, Texas 77459, Names and titles are as follows Patricia Sykes – Member Managed, Samuel Sykes – Member Managed, Johnathan Sykes – Member Managed.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS SWEETWATER BOULEVARD AT ALCORN BAYOU BRIDGE REPAIRS 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: Sweetwater Blvd at Alcorn Bayou Bridge Repairs CIP PROJECT NUMBER: ST2001 LOCATION OF WORK: The EB and WB Sweetwater Blvd bridges are located between Greystone Way and Greenleaf Oaks Drive Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com or documents may be examined at the office of the Project Engineer: Aguirre & Fields, 7215 New Territory Blvd., Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479. 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, May 14, 2020, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered. For questions regarding this bid, please contact Jason Poscovsky CPPO, CPPB, Contracts Manager jposcovsky@sugarlandtx.gov no later than 3:00 p.m. Friday, May 8, 2020. 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.
SERVICES MATH/COMPUTER TUTOR Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics. Bill Stewart. BSEE 281-3411582.>+
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(Missouri City, TX), Analyze user requirements & procedures to improve system use, designing & developing Business Applications using ERP tools like Oracle EBS (E-Business Suite), JD Edwards technologies in Sales & distribution, Business warehouse, production, procurement & distribution planning. Dvlp & design functional & technical system design docs reltd to manufacturing & distribution systems, job aids, scripts, testing, & training documentation. Coord projects performed by sub-contractors & team members of the co. This would incl developing business & technical specs, testing & validation of projects deliverables & outputs. Coord w/other internal depts & external clients & external agencies & manage global clients & vendors. Plan, coord & participate in the reviews of business processes req'd for application change management, security & controls, provision of enhancements & new apps necessary for business operations. Reqs: Bach's deg in Comp Info Systems or foreign equiv & 3 yrs relevant work exp. Mail resumes to HR; IChain Consulting LLC 4502 Riverstone Blvd Ste 1202, Missouri City, TX 77459.
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HOME IMPROVEMENT
HIRELOCAL LEGALS SUGAR LAND POLICE DEPARTMENT Tow Truck Rotation List Pre-Application Meeting The City of Sugar Land will soon accept applications from tow truck companies to create a new rotation list for non-consent towing services. A pre-application meeting will be held on May 20, 2020, at 2:00 p.m., and the Sugar Land Police Department will participate through telephonic/videoconferencing means. The meeting will be available via live stream at http://www. sugarlandtx.gov/1238/SLTV-16-Live–Video, https://www.youtube. com/sugarlandtxgov/live, and Sugar Land Comcast Subscribers can also tune-in on Channel 16, to discuss the application requirements, selection process, and answer any questions prospective applicants may have about the process. The new rotation is expected to begin in July 2020. The City non-consent towing program is a two-year term. As of the date of this publication (April 29, 2020) the President of the United States and the Governor of the State of Texas have issued declarations ordering restrictive social-distancing guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19. As a result, the Sugar Land Police Department has elected to conduct this meeting online. All interested companies are highly encouraged to attend, and request only one representative from each company if possible. Interested companies must contact Sergeant Shane Bracken, (281) 275-2926, to register as an attendee by Noon, May 19, 2020. Registered attendees will be provided with the ability to participate during the scheduled date and time of the meeting. Additionally, interested companies can submit questions prior to the meeting to sbracken@sugarlandtx.gov. Members of the public desiring to make comments during the meeting may submit their written comments to the Office of the City Secretary (citysec@sugarlandtx.gov). Comments should reference the “Tow Truck Rotation List Pre-Application Meeting” in the subject line, must be received by Noon, May 20, 2020, then will be read during the meeting. Members of the public desiring to make comments during the published date and time of the public hearing must e-mail citysec@sugarlandtx.gov or call (281) 2752730 by Noon, May 20, 2020 to register and receive instructions for direct participation during the meeting.
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THE STAR
PAGE 6 • Wednesday, April 29, 2020
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
FBISD students to present projects during virtual showcase By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Dulles High School senior Neer Jain remembers making numerous trips to his mom’s job at Chevron’s Houston office and being enthralled with the environment. He and nine other Fort Bend ISD students have gotten more hands-on experiences in business settings over the last several months and will present the fruits of their work later this week. Jain was one of 10 high school seniors from across FBISD’s Gifted and Talented programs who were selected last fall to participate in the district’s annual partnership with area businesses that provides real-world experience in the workforce. The students will
Jain
present projects they have spent months honing during the “GT Mentorship Virtual Showcase” on Thursday. “(My mom) has cubicles and stuff all over, and now I’ve had my own cubicle surrounded by people who are serious about their jobs as well,” Jain said. “I was able to sit in on meetings and get the same experience I might not be able to get until 10
FOOT FACTS by Dr. Eric Tepper
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The posterior tibial nerve runs from the ankle to the foot through a narrow pathway called the tarsal tunnel. When the tunnel is compressed by consistent pressure, the nerve can be damaged resulting in tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS). Tingling, shooting pains, burning sensations, and feelings of electric shock on the soles of the feet and inside of the ankle are common symptoms of TTS, but the severity and frequency of the symptoms vary widely from person to person. People with extremely flat feet, arthritis, diabetes, and varicose veins or lesions near the tibial nerve are more likely to develop TTS, especially if their conditions are untreated. Anti-inflammatories or steroid injections can reduce swelling and relieve pressure on the tibial nerve. P.S. Compression socks come in different sizes and different levels of pressure, but they should cover no more than the affected area and never be uncomfortably tight. We only have one pair of feet, and they must take us working, traveling, shopping, partying, dancing, and wherever else we may want to go. Treat yours to a little attention as well as the professional care they deserve. From compression socks to sophisticated testing techniques to customized treatment plans, you’ll find the help you need here at 3143 Hwy. 6 South. We welcome your call for an appointment at 281-980-3668.
Lee
Mandimutsira
years from now.” The virtual showcase, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, will be streamed live on the district’s website at fortbendisd. com/gtmentorship. “These brilliant and talented young people have done work they are rightfully proud of,” FBISD GT Mentorship Program instructor Nancy Bryant said. Students spent the fall semester honing their business communication and research skills and were asked to identify a career path. Each student was then matched with a volunteer mentor who is a recognized professional in the student’s selected field of study. The mentors and students collaborated over the course of the spring semester. Jain, who has long been interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) principles, worked alongside multiple engineers in the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and technology fields at LEAF Engineers, a PBK Architects company at Greenway
Plaza in Houston. His project focused on the energy footprint of FBISD’s Wheeler Fieldhouse, which has not been renovated in several decades, and how to bring it into the modern age. “I never knew that architecture really involved this much engineering, so it was really fun. It showed me a whole new light. The experience of being in a professional environment hit me differently,” he said. “… Since I’m working with an actual building, I want to make sure the info I provide is something that could actually happen. I have some wacky ideas in there, but I think they’re still very practical.” Also involved in mentorships were Clements High School seniors Emma Lee and Julie Mandimutsira. Lee experienced a double mentorship in food science, comparing amenity farm Harvest Green with a Missouri City nonprofit community farm Lettuce Live, while Mandimutsira was given a hands-on experience with Stafford-based
Forward Science, the biomedical industry leader for oral oncology. “My favorite part has been being able to explore my biggest interests and dive into that world,” said Mandimutsira, who undertook a project involving design of a hypothetical product that addresses an oncological need. “I really enjoyed being able to get my hands in and on a project and seeing that unfold in real life.” For Lee, her experience went beyond the project, which involved learning how each farm determines what they grow. It was about the relationships she built. “I love hearing stories about how volunteers got interested in gardening and eating this kind of food,” she said. Complicating matters recently, however, has been the outbreak of COVID-19 in Fort Bend County. The pandemic necessitated the temporary closure of many businesses in the Houston region, taking the students away from the hands-on, on-site mentorship. It was especially problematic for Jain, who was using the Revit software program. He is relatively new to it and often asked questions about it to the engineers around him. “It’s still possible, but it’s a lot more difficult not being in that environment,” he said. “The loss of those resources was pretty difficult to get around.” Despite the obstacles, the students are putting the finish-
ing touches on their projects. “(The showcase) is definitely a daunting thought, but I’m excited to take pointers from this that I can take moving forward,” Mandimutsira said. Added Lee: “I’m really interested to see who is interested enough to come see what’s going on.” Below are the other seven students who will have their work on display:: • Rene Leal of Travis High School saw patients and attended surgical procedures under the guidance of vascular surgeon Dr. Ulises Baltazar of Methodist Houston. • Allie Nguyen of Elkins High School got the opportunity to learn about sports marketing with the Sugar Land Skeeters. • Anthony Pierson from Travis learned about computer science at Nitco, Inc. • Milcah Poothakary from Elkins worked in a medical research lab with Dr. Cintia De Paiva of the Baylor College of Medicine. • Bhaavya Rastogi from Clements learned about marketing and financial literacy programs with the Houston Federal Credit Union • Malay Shah of Hightower ltearned information from Access Health Richmond about public health administration in a nonprofit facility • Kanika Talwar of Dulles learned about the nuances of successful marketing through Stafford-based Creative Consumer Research
FBISD announces tentative graduation dates From Staff Reports
On Friday, Fort Bend ISD announced tentative plans to hold graduation ceremonies at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar
Land on July 19-21. If large gatherings are not yet permitted at that time due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, the district said it will hold virtual commencement ceremonies instead. Below is FBISD’s planned
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR
graduation schedule:
Sunday, July 19 • Clements – 1 p.m. • Austin – 4:30 p.m. • Ridge Point – 8 p.m. Monday, July 20 • Hightower – 9:30 a.m.
• Bush – 1 p.m. • Elkins – 4:30 p.m. • Dulles – 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 21 • Marshall – 9:30 a.m. • Kempner – 1 p.m. • Travis – 4:30 p.m. • Willowridge – 8 p.m.
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
In light of the COVID-19 outbreak and the cancellation of several community gatherings, please check with each organization for updated information about the status of their events. FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS We will not be meeting in April or May. As of now, we plan to have our kick-off meeting/luncheon in The Great Hall at Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. on Aug. 13 at 11 a.m. during which we will install our new officers. TRTA dues for March 2020-February 2021 are now due. Members and new retirees wishing to join, please mail a personal check made payable to FBHRE for $45 directly to treasurer Cathie Ritchie at 1107 Laurel Green Rd. in Missouri City. If you are a Diamond Plus member, then you would only send Cathie a check for $10. Contact Cathie with any questions at critchie43@comcast.net
reichekfinancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!
ONGOING ST. CATHERINE OF SIENNA FOOD DRIVE A community food drive benefiting East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry is being sponsored by St. Catherine of Sienna Episcopal Church, 4747 Sienna Pkwy., through May 31. Boxes will be at the front door of the church to collect needed food items. Monetary tax deductible donations can be made out to East Ft. Bend Human Needs Ministry (EFBHNM) and placed inside the mail slot. For additional information, please contact melinda@ siennachurch.org. DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED 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 meets at 9:30 am every Sunday morning at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land ( 502 Eldridge Rd. ). For more information call 281-240-3195
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.
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. For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-575-1145 or mike@
RAMIRO RODRIGUEZ • AUTO • HOME INSURANCE • BUSINESS An Independent Agency Working For You – NOT The Insurance Company.
HELP LOCAL PET OWNERS IN NEED
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.
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, tax-free monthly stipend if eligible. Call today to help change the world, one child at a time in Rosenberg. For more information, call 281-3443515. 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. AMERICAN LEGION 294 MEETING Meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Old Hickory Inn BBQ, 3334 FM 1092, just north of Highway 6 in Missouri City. For more information, please call 713-376-7295.
281-240-8701
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 “I read to a cat” bookmark and be eligible to adopt a cat for 50 perecent off. Held 1:30-4:30 p.m. the first Saturday of every month at 3203 Hwy 6 S, Sugar Land. 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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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.
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. John’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 1-800272-3900.
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See us online www.FortBendStar.com
es, Rezvankhoo said he is
REZVANKHOO FROM PAGE 1 required to wear at least upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus. As of Monday, health officials had reported 957 cases of COVID-19 in Fort Bend County, and 22 deaths related to the disease. “A pandemic doesn’t come around often, especially as lethal as the one we’re dealing with,” Rezvankhoo said. “The mindset is to see what is happening around the world, learn from our colleagues and try to identify any potential therapeutic remedy that could save someone’s life. We’re trying to find a solution.” Adding to the nature of treatment is the necessity of wearing personal protection equipment (PPE). Under most circumstanc-
a barrier gown and cloth surgical mask along with a face shield. In the most extreme situations, he is required to wear an N95 surgical mask. And though it may be cumbersome at times, Rezvankhoo knows the task of putting on the armor and taking it off is well worth the trouble. “We have to go through specific procedures with donning and doffing – that process in and of itself is by and large the most important thing,” he said. “If you do that, then the risk of contamination is fairly low.” Beyond his patients and fellow medical professionals, Rezvankhoo has the added worry of protecting his wife and three kids from
whatever he is exposed to during his hospital shifts. So in addition to the donning and doffing process for PPE, he takes a few extra measures to prevent spreading it to his loved ones. “I change out of my scrubs into street clothes, get home and take a shower,” he said. “Then I can resume my normal life.” Those moments with his family, however, have been few and far between during the pandemic. In addition to long shifts at the hospital, Rezvankhoo said he is tirelessly working from home and on the go to find a solution to the COVID-19 problem. Most times, he admitted, it’s hard to tell when one shift ends and another begins because it all melds together. He is affili-
ated with a New York-area hospital with which he is frequently on conference calls to share information. He also runs two private physician Facebook groups that have more 400,000 members sharing potentially relevant information regarding the virus. The process can be draining to even the most mentally-conditioned professional. But Rezvankhoo said his motivation is simple. “If I don’t do this, then people will die. If you’re in this field or profession, social service is what we do,” he said. “Naturally, the people here are those who are willing to take personal risk for the safety of other people. … I don’t want to give up on (these patients). That’s exactly why I went into medicine.”
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“As cops, we’re going to be exposed to infectious diseases all the time. We teach our guys to not bring the shoes or anything they have into the house with their family,” he said. “I’ve always left mine in the garage, and they get sprayed down with an alcohol-watersoap mixture to sanitize everything. Clothes also get washed separately from other items.” A former Fort Bend County EMT prior to joining the SLPD, Suter said the challenge of solving a new puzzle like the coronavirus always appealed to him in law enforcement. It has also added an element to the job he
said keeps him and other officers trained on the day-by-day operations. “We’re problem solvers. … What keeps me going is the continued education and problem solving required to meet the continual challenges of policing in the modern world. This pandemic is no different,” he said. “Resources are always going to be limited, and time is going to be scarce. Yet, the job still needs to get done.” Suter said the challenges associated with COVID-19 have forced SLPD to almost re-write the general plan it had in place for pandemics. “It completely changes everything we’ve done,” he said. “There’s no contingency planning for it.”
GREGORY
For Your Dedication
T H AN K Y OU for Keeping Us Safe!
SUTER FROM PAGE 1
PAID FOR BY FBCDP; TREASURER: KEN MCKEE
LISA N SIMS, AGENT 11647 S Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com
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THE STAR
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, April 29, 2020
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★ BETTY FROM PAGE 1
Pictured is last year's Fort Bend Boys' Choir tour choir. The group recently had one of their recorded songs featured in a Polish film that premiered March 6. (Contributed photo)
Fort Bend Boys’ Choir song featured in international movie From Staff Reports
The Fort Bend Boys’ Choir performed in a Polish movie titled “The Hater” that premiered on March 6. The film featured one of the choir’s recorded songs. Producers for the movie used the group’s “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in D minor, 4th
movement that was on the local choir’s 10th CD release called “Heavenly Euphoria.” The movie version of the song can be found streaming online at fbbctx.org/ fort-bend-boys-choir-in-amovie/. The group is accepting applications for its 2020-21 auditions, which have been postponed until the summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants must
be at least 8 years of age or going into third grade for the 2020-21 school year to be eligible for participation. Residents can visit the choir’s audition page on its website www.fbbctx.org and fill out an online form to request an audition appointment for the summer. Those interested can also call 281-240-3800 or check the group’s social media pages for more information.
that was coming. It’s a new experience for all of us, but we’re here to help each and every one of them,” she said. “It was exhausting at the beginning – it got a little crazy there for a while. It’s mainly about adapting to the needs of each and every customer.” It begins at the front entrance, where Granados has assigned team members to wipe down and sanitize each shopping cart before customers grab them. Once inside, she said every touchable surface in the store – from cash registers to shelves and the tops of food containers and soda bottles – has been cleaned by either Granados or her team. The store also has a team member clean and sanitize touchable surfaces inside each bathroom of the store, every hour on the hour. Also, store manager Lori Gilmore has installed stations with sanitation wipes and liquid sanitizer throughout the store.
Whatever the need, Granados is usually in the thick of things – keys in one hand and disinfectant solution in the other, ready to fire from the hip. “They sometimes call me ‘Quick Trigger Betty,’ because I’m always ready,” she said with a laugh. Gilmore and Granados were quick to credit the other for the store’s protection plans, with both reiterating that protection is a team effort. And it must be to do their customers the best service. “We just stay emergency ready, and we’ve done the best we can with what H-EB sends us,” Gilmore said. “(Betty) is a big part of that.” Beyond her role of cleaning the store, however, Granados said she also likes to try lightening the mood whenever she can. Whether it’s doing a crazy dance or a simple gesture such as asking those waiting in line what they’re making for dinner, she tries to bring a personal touch in order to put customers’ minds at ease – as much
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as she can, at least. “At the beginning you get scared. To be able to help our community, we’ve got to be in touch with each other. It’s hard, and you would see some customers coming in with tears on their face they’re so scared,” she said. “You can see the fear in people – I’m getting chills right now. It’s something you never anticipated. We try to make it lively, and I just try to get the customers to try relaxing a little bit.” Her job doesn’t end when she leaves the store each night as she grapples with how to prevent spreading the disease to her children and grandchildren in Alvin, where she resides. “I get home and leave my shoes outside, and I’ve got my little laundry basket outside. I put my clothes in there, slip into another gown that I have before taking a shower,” she said. “You’re having to constantly practice safety, especially since we’re working with the public. I never know what I’ll have to do.” She admitted it can take a bit of a toll. Granados has not been able to see or hug her grandchildren since the pandemic broke nearly two months ago, limited to FaceTime conversations with them and other loved ones. But she knows the temporary pain has the potential to give way to a safer future. “That’s the way I see it and that’s what I want my legacy to be,” she said. “I’ve got to help and do what needs to be done.”
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Charlton’s Garage & Station & Auto Sales in Stafford, Texas, 1951-1970. Owned by E.C. Charlton.
Current garage at Staffordshire & Fifth St. Stafford, Texas.
Still the Same Great Service!
281-499-1126 • Staffordshire Rd at 5th Street Stafford, TX 77477 • www.Charltonsbodyrepair.com Monday – Friday, 7am-6pm
Those were the days - Charlton’s Body Repair - 01-31-18- 3colx3”
Congratulations!
FORT BEND ISD’S 2020 ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY TEACHERS OF THE YEAR Fort Bend ISD applauds its outstanding 2020 District Teachers of the Year. Kelly Stavinoha from Madden Elementary and Janet Menzie from Clements High School represent excellence in education. Both deserve this honor because of their dedication to ensuring all students reach their full potential. FBISD would like to recognize ALL of its teachers who are going above and beyond supporting our nearly 79,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic. To all of them, we say thank you!
To the entire FBISD Community, We express our sincere gratitude for your continued support and partnership. Though we are not together in our traditional setting, we remain united in our mission – to inspire and equip all students for futures beyond what they can imagine.
fortbendisd.com
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