FBISD resolves civil rights case from 2012: Page 9
Dallas Beeler returns to the Skeeters as Sugar land continues to lead the Atlantic League. See the story on page 6.
WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 1, 2018
Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 41 • No. 50
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Toastmasters chartered in Missouri City By Donna Hill FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
Anyone who’s afraid to speak to an audience, even after hearing the standby advice to “pretend the audience is wearing… (insert article of clothing or clothing-optional part here),” and it still doesn’t help with the speaking jitters, check out the Toastmasters website where “Every Toastmasters story starts with a single speech.” Luckily, for aspiring speechmakers living in Missouri City, the time to be confident is now. A chartering ceremony on May 31 made Toastmasters official in Missouri City. An educational non-profit organization since 1924, Toastmasters International dedicates itself to empowering individuals to become more effective communicators, confident speakers and leaders. Membership exceeds 352,000, with more than 16,400 clubs in over 141 countries. Keith Romaine, a longtime Toastmaster member, along with President Robert “Jobby” Johnson, felt that with four Toastmaster Clubs in neighboring Sugar Land, surely they could start another Toastmasters group in Missouri City – particularly in Sienna Plantation. The planning for the new charter took more than a year, with several meetings, requisite paperwork, plus the official start-up OK from Toastmasters International headquarters in Englewood, Colo. Johnson, a 30-year member of Toastmasters, recalls first looking for a Toastmasters Club in the Show Me City. “When I arrived, I was sure there was a Toastmasters Club for a city this size. When I checked on Toastmasters International, there were no clubs here,” he said. He attended the Sweet Talkers Toastmasters Club in Sugar Land, yet it was always in his heart to start a club in Missouri City. Johnson credits a Christian songwriter, Matthew West, for spurring him into club starting action. “I heard his song ‘Do Something’ and the lyrics which stood out were ‘if not now, then when?’” he said. Johnson said membership is growing. “People want to become
SEE CLUB, PAGE 7
By Theresa D. McClellan THERESA@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Even if the two governing bodies can’t work out their issues, the Stafford Municipal School District will have a police presence when school starts in August. This assurance came from both the Stafford Police Chief Richard Ramirez and Stafford MSD Board of Trustees President Christopher
Caldwell following an email announcement from the school district last week calling the city “irresponsible” for its July 25 decision to not fund three police officers as paid school resource officers. In that email, school board trustees blasted city officials saying they were caught off guard by the city’s decision to discontinue an old agreement that allowed the city to pay for school officers. “This is an unprecedented move
in the history of Stafford and one that works against the district’s commitment to safety. With less than a month until the 2018-2019 school year begins, the district was blindsided by an irresponsible decision that will affect our entire community,” the school communication said. One board trustee, school board Vice President Xavier Herrera, said in the email that he was “deeply troubled” by the decision. “Without a clear plan in place or
availability of discussion prior to the vote is consciously irresponsible,” Herrera said. “Playing politics in today’s climate places our students and staff in unnecessary danger,” Herrera added. But the police chief said he has been in talks with school superintendent since March. In June the new board president took over negotiations and
SEE POLICE, PAGE 5
Man blames golf course upgrades for flooded home Missouri City denies responsibility By Joe Southern JSOUTHERN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Like many people in Missouri City, Mitch Carter’s home flooded during Hurricane Harvey last year. With the exception of one of his next-door neighbors, Carter said no one else in his community got water in their house. He believes his home flooded as a direct result of the reconstruction of the 15th hole of the city-owned Quail Valley Golf Course in 2009. He claims the removal of a berm along FM 1092 and the elevation of the golf course cut off a drain that took water away from his property. “They cut the drain off and now my property is the drain,” he said. Missouri City denies any responsibility. “The City’s insurance company has determined that the damages or injuries to Mr. Carter’s property were not caused by any wrongful act, omission or negligence on the part of the City or any of its employees,” spokesman Cory Stottlemyer said in an emailed statement. “The City has no additional comments at this time.” Carter and his wife Yolanda have lived in Missouri City for 20 years. Their home is uniquely located in a cul-desac on Thunderbird Street. Their back yard abuts a lake on the right and the golf course on the left. Carter said there was a small pond on the golf course and the ground used to be level from his property to near the intersection of FM 1092 and Cartwright Road. After Missouri City pur-
chased the golf course and raised the hole to street level, it left the course sloping down toward the enlarged pond – which was dug out to provide dirt for the elevation – and the homes to the south, primarily Carter’s home. “There was a certain amount of water that went to the lake and a certain amount of water that went to the drain. Now the drain doesn’t get the water,” Carter said. “They have a very good drainage system there but the water can’t get to it… My house didn’t used to be the low area. They made the land higher than my house.” For the first few years after the golf course was improved, the Carters didn’t have any problems. When the area did flood, the water never reached their property, and if it did, only the outer edge. They did notice the water encroaching more and more, but after the floods of 2015 and 2016, they felt they were safe. They felt safe enough that when Hurricane Harvey approached last year they had their children and grandchildren come over so they would be dry. On the night of Aug. 27 water breached the walls and eventually filled the house with a foot of water. They fled the house in the middle of the night in a panic. “We called for help but the city would not come,” Yolanda Carter said. She said the next day a city truck came by, but the driver simply took a photograph and left. Within a few days the Carters discovered that their next-door neighbor’s home got a couple inches of water. The
Mitch and Yolanda Carter stand in the back yard of their home on Thunderbird Street with the 15th hole of the Quail Valley Golf Course in the background. They claim that when the city redesigned the hole it closed off access to a drain, forcing floodwaters toward their house. (Photo by Joe Southern)
neighbors on the other side stayed dry, as did the other homes in the neighborhood. Water flowed through the Carter’s property and flooded Thunderbird Street. “It’s worsened since Harvey,” Carter said. “A lot of dirt has been washed out.” Nearly a year later the Carters are still recovering. Some of the walls in their home are still stripped of drywall. “We’ve made a lot of progress but we’re not finished,” Carter said. “We haven’t been back in our own beds in about a year.” Last fall the Carters retained the services of attorney Steve Fernelius who wrote the city detailing the problem and demanding $100,000 payment to cover some of the expenses the Carters incurred from
SEE FLOOD, PAGE 5
(Google Maps image)
‘When Life Grabs You By The Baseballs’ is true story of rise, fall, and redemption By Joe Southern JSOUTHERN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Jon Peters of Missouri City is a typical middle-aged man, raising two kids, active in church, and working a good job in the oil and gas industry. Oh, and he also happens to hold the national record for most consecutive wins by a high school baseball pitcher with 53. In his career at Brenham High School he was 54-1 and led the Cubs to three state championships. On May 8, 1989, he became the first high school baseball player to be featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine. It all went downhill from Jon Peters of Missouri City holds a copy of his new book, “When Life Grabs You By The Baseballs.” (Photo by there. There was the suicide atJoe Southern)
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tempt the night before the record-breaking game and the career-ending surgeries on his arm. Although he was recruited by Texas A&M, he never played a game of college baseball and lost the dream of
playing in the Major Leagues. He did coach some at the college level and even married his college sweetheart. That was in 2003. Six years and two kids later the marriage was over. “I had recently gone through a divorce and I couldn’t stop drinking vodka,” he said. “I felt worthless and wanted to die.” He became an expert at concealing his drinking problem from everyone but himself. “I hid everything,” he said. His experience as a highprofile athlete taught him to keep his problems low-key. “Even in high school I saw how professional athletes messed up and it got smeared everywhere,” he said.
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Funeral Home, Crematory & Family Reception Center All in one place The city’s budget and finance team were recently recognized by the Sugar Land City Council. (Submitted photo)
Budget award recognizes Sugar Land’s fiscal strength, efforts to ensure strong economy From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
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The Government Finance Officers Association awarded the city of Sugar Land with its 22nd consecutive Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2018 annual budget. The award recognized strong financial leadership, transparency initiatives and continued financial resiliency – including fiscally conservative budgeting and proactive responses to economic conditions – that ensures the continuation of quality city services while maintaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates. “Through a conservative, resilient financial approach, we continue to provide the important services and capital projects our residents have told us are important,” said City Manager Allen Bogard. “We’ve continued to accomplish this while also promoting capital investment, creating new jobs, increasing tourism and providing unique destination activities that provide new revenue streams to help fund city services and
keep our tax rate low.” The award represents a significant achievement by the city, representing the commitment of the city council and staff to meet the highest principles of governmental budgeting and transparency. In order to receive the award, the city met nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentations designed to assess how well the city’s budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communication device. Independent evaluators ensured Sugar Land’s budget was “proficient” in all four categories and met or exceeded 14 mandatory criteria to receive the award. The fiscal year 2018 budget and the fiscal year 2019 proposed budget and five-year Capital Improvement Program are online at www.sugarlandtx.gov/ budget. With enhanced transparency in mind, all FY19 budget workshop presentations and videos will be available on the website after each meeting. Educational materials about the coming fiscal
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year 2019 budget are also online. “I am proud of all of our outstanding budget and finance staff who contributed to this accomplishment,” said Bogard. “This award is yet another example that our sound financial management is meeting the needs of our citizens.” There are nearly 19,000 GFOA members across the United States and Canada, with more than 1,600 entities participating in the Budget Awards Program. The mission of GFOA is to advance excellence in state and local government services. The association produces publications, training programs, services and products designed to enhance the skills and performance of those responsible for government finance policy and management. In addition, Director of Finance Jennifer Brown was recently notified that she has been selected to participate on a GFOA task force to update the code of ethics for members, as well as recommended to serve on the organization’s nominating committee.
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If you’re in the market for a pet, please adopt from a local shelter Not to be cliché, but this is puppy love. Last Friday we added a new member to our family. After much debate, we finally decided to name her Ginny. She is a golden retriever puppy estimated to be about five or six months old. We found Ginny at the Fort Bend County Animal Shelter. My wife, Sandy, saw a post on social media that said the shelter was overcrowded and they were waiving adoption fees. A quick check of dogs up for adoption showed that a golden retriever puppy had just arrived from Needville. The listing was so new they didn’t even have a picture up yet. Sandy called and placed a hold. We were first on a very long list for her. That evening I stopped by on my way home to check her out. She was shy but snuggled right up to me. I was immediately smitten. Because she had just been picked up, we had to wait
FAITH, FAMILY & FUN JOE SOUTHERN EDITOR
three days before she became adoptable. Those days seemed to pass very slowly. On the second day of our wait I paid a visit with the rest of the family and even brought along Bella, our little chaweiner dog (half Chihuahua and half dachshund). The two dogs were indifferent to each other, so we took that as a good sign. Finally on Friday at 12:30 p.m. the waiting period ended. I took a long lunch break, picked Ginny up, and took her home. Our two cats have remained aloof and Bella is still trying to assert dominance, but other than that, she’s been a great fit.
Letter to the Editor
We have a large, fenced yard and Ginny loves to run outside. While the process of adopting Ginny was simple and we were able to cherrypick a premier breed, I still can’t help but think of all the other dogs and cats that are still at the shelter awaiting their forever home. I thank God that Fort Bend County and local cities have the animal shelters that we do and am forever grateful to the staffs and volunteers who make them work. They’re a huge improvement over life as a stray on the streets, but it’s still not a healthy place for a pet to be. Walking through the kennels was heartbreaking. Seeing all the dogs begging and pleading for love and attention and hearing their barks and whines made me want to take all of them home. I can’t imagine how hard it is for the staff and volunteers who are around the dogs and cats all day, watching some of the less
desirable ones get passed over time and again while people like me skip over them for the popular ones – the ones that rarely come in and are quickly adopted when they do. We couldn’t help it. We used to have a golden retriever named Shelby. She passed away four years ago. We’ve wanted another ever since. Ginny represented our golden opportunity. We take great pride in having rescued two dogs and two cats. They are all loving and contented members of our family. Our lives are richer for having them with us and vice versa. Unfortunately there are too many people out there who do not take pet ownership seriously or responsibly. Someone dumped or abandoned each of our four pets along with the hundreds of dogs, cats and other pets crowding the shelters across Fort Bend County. It takes a very cruel and cold-hearted person to abandon a family
pet. I shudder to think that there are people like that living among us in our own neighborhoods. They are and it’s despicable. To be sure there are a lot of pets that wind up in shelters because they have been unintentionally separated from their owners. More often than not, however, the animals that do arrive have been abandoned and many show signs of abuse. That makes me all the more thankful that there are people who dedicate their careers and their free time to helping stray pets get off the streets and into good homes. It takes a special person with a heart of gold to do what they do and my hat is off to them. Although pet ownership isn’t for everyone, those that are so inclined are strongly urged to rescue a shelter animal versus buying one from a breeder. A shelter pet will be spayed or neutered, checked by a vet, microchipped, and given all its
shots. It’s those things that most adoption fees cover. If you’re not an animal person, by all means do not consider adopting. If you do adopt from a shelter and the pet proves to be a bad match for your family, please bring it back; don’t turn it loose. If you want and are able to care for a pet but don’t want to adopt, please consider fostering a pet. That helps free space in the shelters, especially this time of year. Shelters can also use donations of pet food, kitty litter, blankets, and other pet supplies. Of course, there is also a need for volunteers to help clean kennels, walk dogs, and perform other simple tasks. These are all great ways you can help your community and animals in need. To learn more about pet adoptions, volunteering, shelter locations, and more, visit www.fortbendpetsalive.org. You’ll be glad you did and so will your future companion.
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Missouri City not responding to flood questions Dear Editor, As a concerned citizen who wants to see our system of government survive, I feel the need to speak out about a trend I see in local government that parallels the trend in national government toward a breakdown in morals of the people who we depend on to serve the interests of the people who elect them. There are a few good people at all levels who worry about this breakdown and want to do something about it before it gets too bad to fix. Things have gotten so bad that an elected Congressman said in a committee hearing that Peter Strock deserved a purple heart for his effort to discredit our President using what is now proved to be an attempt to frame him in the minds of the public with an accusation of collusion. Concerned citizens need to join together to combat this trend toward destroying the government we depend on for a civil society before it is too late. This is addressed to the people in local government who I feel have put the interest of their fellow citizens over that of the establishment with the hope that each person will join me in doing what they can to expose the corruption and fix the problem
in whatever way they can. The trend has become too prevalent to ignore. I have collected a thick file of emails and attended several meetings to back up and document what I am saying. I will be glad to share any of it with anyone who asks. This fiasco started when I questioned why we had water in our streets and houses during (Hurricane) Harvey in the Lake Olympia subdivision while I could see that it should have flowed naturally into the drainage creek a few feet away and was several feet lower. The first attempt was to get an answer to this question from our city engineer. His answer was total lies saying he had corresponded with the “owner and operator” of our MUD district and was told the flood gates had been opened during the flood and the pumps were unable to keep up with the amount of rain. 1) There is no one in the MUD district with that title. I asked for a name and he ignored the request. 2) The local MUD district manager responsible for operating the floodgates told me the gates were NOT open during the flood. 3) The pumps WERE able to pump the water in the storm sewer drainage ditch
below the flood level in the streets. I asked The MUD district manager how high the creek got during the flood. He responded that he did not know and gate control was determined by the creek having to go below flood level before the gates could be opened. This implied that creek water had been higher than street water flood level, which never happened. I was told recently that a water level gauge was installed a couple of days after the peak flood had passed and the level then was 64 feet. Both the MUD manager and LJA engineer knew at that time what the reading was but both claimed until recently they had no data at the time. Both lied! I asked the county engineer what data he had on creek levels during Harvey. He said he did not have any. I asked The LJA engineer if I could see the flood control design to see if I could see any reason why the flood water stayed in our streets for more than a week. He referred me to the LJA lawyer to see if I was entitled to see it. He said I was and the engineer said he would make it available. He never did! Next I contacted our county district government
representative complaining about this and asked if he could help. He said he had no data but would set up a meeting to resolve my concerns. Soon after, the county engineer called to volunteer that he did have evidence showing the creek level but did not tell me what the evidence showed. He brought the evidence to the meeting representing that it showed the peak level at our drainage outfall. The county government representative said he had marked the water level on a power pole nearby and measured the elevation later. He did this at the
time of the flood and knew the answer then. Both lied initially! I wrote an article to put in our community newsletter asking if they would publish it to explain what I had found at the time. I don’t dispute that it is their decision to make and could be very controversial to publish it. They have stopped corresponding with me. I still do not have an answer to the initial question. Was the flooding caused by something that is fixable? Was the cause truly a case of rainfall exceeding the design criteria? How many days should have water remained in&the streets (if BONDED INSURED
any) based on the amount of rain that fell, according to the design? What is the reason for all of the lies stonewalling and cover up? Why are there still no published elevations of the creek at our outfall? (I have concluded that the answer lies in rainfall inside our residential area and not the creek level that is so secret.) The swamp keeps getting deeper! Why were so many people involved in the lies? You cannot believe anyone in a position to tell the truth. I can’t fight this battle alone. Frank Clapp Missouri City
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Back to school events happening this month The following are some of the back to school activities taking place in August in Fort Bend County: Sugar Land Heritage Foundation Friends Back to School Social The Sugar Land Foundation Heritage Friends will host a member event on Aug. 9 from 6-8 p.m. at the Sugar Land Heritage Museum, 198 Kempner St. in Sugar Land. The “Back to School Social: Then and Now” program features talks that include: · Lakeview 100 years with Chuck Kelly · Company Town Years
and Going Forward with Dr. Wayne Emerson · Memoirs of Teaching with Rita Drabek and Mary Willis · What’s New at Fort Bend ISD with Grayle James, FBISD Trustee “We are very excited to host our second social in the new museum space. Becoming a Heritage Friend is sharing history of the past and making new history together, connecting then and now,” said Daphne Ring, Heritage Friends Chair. The Heritage Friends host three socials annually and are free for members.
Guests are welcome with a $20 donation. Heritage Friends memberships are available for $55 per person and $100 for any two new members. The membership can be paid online or at the socials and is tax deductible. To RSVP, email kim@slheritage.org. Back-to-School Bash for children with I/DD On Tuesday, Aug. 14, children up to age 21 with an intellectual or developmental disability are invited to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center’s Sensory Friendly Hour (9-10 a.m.) A free family
Book donation The Suburban Sugar Land Women recently donate more than 1,300 preschool books to area schools. Pictured from the left are (back row) Mable Scott Austin, Elise Leaks Harmon, Tomika R. Lewis, (front row) Emma Wasik, age 4; and Kourtney Ogunmakin, age 5. (Submitted photo)
of four pass is available to a child with I/DD, whose parents RSVP by Aug. 7 to kaxtell@arcoffortbend.org. Strategies for a Successful Back-to-School The parent support group for parents of children with an intellectual or developmental disability will hold a “Strategies for a Successful Backto-School” session on Thursday, Aug. 2 at 11:30 a.m. at The Arc of Fort Bend County, 123 Brooks St., Sugar Land. Measure Up 4 Kids The Fort Bend Women’s Center is holding a school supply drive for children in the program. Sschool supplies, uniforms and shoes are needed for the new school year. To donate or to participate in the Measure Up 4 Kids program, visit www.fbwc.org/get-
involved/back-2-school/ YMCA Operation Backpack, donations drop-off Residents are asked to purchase school supplies and a backpack and drop them at a YMCA or participating businesses by Aug. 12. Drop off locations include: Fort Bend Family YMCA, 4433 Cartwright Road, Missouri City; T.W. Davis Family YMCA, 911 Thompson Hwy., Richmond; First Colony Christian Church, 4141 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land; First Choice ER locations throughout Fort Bend County; Ashley Home Store, 16762 Highway 59 South, and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, 17500 West Grand Parkway South, Sugar Land. Requested supplies include backpacks, composition books, No. 2 pencils, white index cards, pencil bags,
boxed crayons, colored pencils, spiral notebooks, graph paper, assorted colored construction paper, glue sticks, rulers with centimeters and inches, kid-friendly scissors and folders with pockets and brads. For a complete list of items requested, visit: https://patch.com/texas/ sugarland/y mca-operation-backpack-drop-locations-sugar-land. Operation Back Pack Drop Love and Unity Works is sponsoring its 5th Annual Operation Back Pack Drop Aug. 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Fellowship of Love Church, 10223 Clodine Road, Richmond. Free backpacks, gift cards, haircuts, workshops, moonwalks and more. You must pre-register by visiting https://obpd2018. eventbrite.com or calling 281-497-1971.
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H POLICE, FROM PAGE 1 communications broke down, the chief said. “They were asked to draft something in their best interest and they didn’t. I’m not trying to air dirty laundry but we tried to work it out and quite frankly, politicians got involved and messed it all up,” Ramirez said. Ramirez also countered the school’s “irresponsible’ claim by saying the school’s communication blast misrepresented the facts, unfairly targeted the mayor and unduly alarmed residents. “They’ve had this information and it could have been written into their budget. According to their email blast, they make it look like the mayor is behind it, but I ran it past them first and they failed to respond,” said the chief. The school district’s email stirred up a maelstrom of finger pointing, accusations and illustrations of the politically charged atmosphere in Stafford. Since the district’s inception, the city of Stafford provided police on the campus grounds. It started with one DARE officer years ago and the police chief said he recently wanted to add a third police officer to the school. He asked the school to pay for the officer’s police cruiser for about $52,000. This is where the conflicting statements begin. New board president
H FLOOD, FROM PAGE 1 the flood. Payment was never made. In the itemized accounting of damages Fernelius sent to the city, he estimated more than $146,000 in damages. The Carters lost two vehicles, had $16,000 in foundation repairs, lost most of their furniture, and personal belongings were ruined. The air conditioning unit, electrical wiring, and more had
Caldwell requested an interlocal agreement and that’s when the city learned the law changed 11 years ago and they were working with old statutes that no longer allow the city to provide services to the school without fair compensation. Caldwell said he asked the chief and mayor to contact him and it never happened. The chief said he asked the school to draft its own agreement favorable to the school and it never happened. “It’s a municipal school district so I thought it don’t apply to us because we are a municipality. But our city attorney said no,” Ramirez explained. Ramirez said he was working with the superintendent. “I don’t negotiate with elected officials and the superintendent and I worked together and we thought that was going along just fine. But in June the communications stopped, the superintendent said all negotiations had to go through the new board president so I requested for the mayor to get involved,” Ramirez said. Ramirez said they initially asked the school to write up an inter-local agreement and the school refused. “Because we were running short on time six weeks ago, I sent it to the school for their review and I got no response. The (city) attorney did all the legalese in it and again I asked for their response. I heard nothing and assumed they were fine with it. So I sent it to our mayor.
The school had this before our mayor,” Ramirez said. In his research, the police chief said that most schools pay 100 percent of the training, salary, and benefits of police officers for the entire year. He asked the school to reimburse the city for the police presence on campus. That would mean compensation for two officers nine months of the year and one officer 10 months of the year. He also asked the school to split the maintenance costs for a police cruiser. The inter-local agreement not only addresses compensation, it also gives Stafford police jurisdiction on the Stafford campus. Currently, only the superintendent can give permission. Ramirez said his hands are tied by the law. “I can’t go above and beyond. If I provide that service for Stafford because Fort Bend Independent School District is in Stafford, I would have to do that for them as well,” said the police chief. During the July 25 meeting, the Stafford City Council struggled with the idea. But the city attorney explained they had to come up with an agreement that showed fair compensation, which could not be an arbitrary $1 or $10 fee. They voted 6-1 to change their policy with council member AJ. Honore providing the only no vote. Honore said he did not have any problem with recognizing the need for an
to be replaced. Mitch Carter said he has tried to talk with city officials, but claims they do not listen to him. He said he took his first complaints to the golf course and was passed on to city staff and eventually to Mayor Allen Owen. “Our mayor and our city staff is ignoring me. It’s like I’m some kind of outcast,” he said. That more than anything is what has Carter so upset. “If anything they should
treat us like thy work for us. We don’t work for them,” he said. “They’re just trying to blow this off like it ain’t happening.” Carter said it would take some simple work to protect his property and to correct the drainage issue, but he can’t get the city to take responsibility or action. He said he doesn’t want to sue the city, but he see’s little alternative at this point. “I don’t like the way I’m being treated,” he said.
Wednesday, August 1, 2018 • PAGE
agreement in place. “We should have one before school starts, but why does this agreement not reflect what we do now. This is a huge policy shift and not reflective of how we currently operate,” he said. At one point the city attorney suggested they could even consider getting back pay for services rendered. That idea was nixed by Mayor Leonard Scarcella. “If we went back to 1982 and computed everything we’d have a large portion of the school fund balance. I don’t want any misunderstanding. I don’t want to go back one day to get payback for what was done in previous years. You mentioned we could consider that, but it won’t be initiated from me,” Scarcella said. Despite the mayor’s comments last week, Honore issued
a statement Monday agreeing with the school district and blasting the mayor for “abusive use of authority.” “Mayor Scarcella’s opposition to Stafford’s 37-year policy of providing support to SMSD has focused on an interpretation of a Texas code that does not expressly apply to the City’s unique relationship to the only municipal school district in Texas and cannot logically be implied to prohibit the City of Stafford from structuring an agreement to continue providing municipal school security for our children,” Honore said in a prepared statement. “This is simply a wild misperception to shift resources from the school and mislead the conversation of poor budget planning at City Hall.... The city’s budget woes mixed with the mayor’s relent-
less efforts to control SMSD’s enrollment policy and budget is the real motivation behind the change of his shift in providing school security services,” said Honore. Sandwiched in all the finger pointing is an effort to make parents feel confident about school security. “If I don’t have this inter-local agreement in place, I can’t send an officer down there like we’ve done the last 30 years. But even if the two government bodies can’t get it done, I assure you, we will have police there,” said Ramirez. Caldwell agreed saying, “there was a drop in communication somewhere down the line so we said let’s just move forward and make sure this doesn’t happen again. The chief and I are on the same page.”
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THE STAR
PAGE 6 • Wednesday, August 1, 2018
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
@FtBendAthletics:
Skeeters continue to dominate Atlantic League By Joe Southern
2ND HALF STANDINGS
JSOUTHERN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
The Sugar Land Skeeters are continuing their dominance over the rest of the Atlantic League. With a 54-28 overall record, the Freedom Division first-half championship, and a 3.5-game lead in the second half of play, the Skeeters are 13-6 in the second half and lead their current opponent, the York Revolution, by 3.5 games in the Freedom Division. The Skeeters are 36-10 (.783) at home this season, which is the best home record in the Atlantic League. They have won nine of their last 10 home games. Somerset owns the second-best home record at 34-17 (.667). The Skeeters had their 12-game home winning streak snapped with Friday’s loss, which is the longest home winning streak from an Atlantic League team this season. Last week The Skeeters began the week on the road in New Britain where they took two of three from the Bees. The Skeeters have gone 10-2 against the Bees this season, including a six-game sweep of the opening series for both teams this season from April 27-May 2 at Constellation Field. The 10-2 record is the Skeeters’ second-best winning percentage against an Atlantic League opponent this season, behind the Road Warriors (12-2). The Bees took the game
Freedom Division W
Sugar Land Skeeters 13 York Revolution 9 Lancaster Barnstormers 7 S. Maryland Blue Crabs 7 Liberty Division Somerset Patriots Long Island Ducks New Britain Bees Road Warriors
Beeler’s back! Dallas Beeler returns to the mound Saturday for the Sugar Land Skeeters after returning from being called up to the Kansas City Royals’ AA team. He was called up July 6 and returned July 28. (Photo by Joe Southern)
Tuesday 5-4, handing the loss to Pat McCoy. Anthony Giansanti went 3-5 with two hits, a home run, and two runs-batted-in. Konner Wade led the Skeeters on the mound Wednesday for a 7-0 blanking of the Bees. Matt Chavez went 2-5 at the plate with a double, a home run, and two RBIs. The Skeeters took the rubber game 12-4 behind the pitching of James Russell. Courtney Hawkins was outstanding at the plate, going 4-5 with three runs, a double, a home run, and three RBIs. Returning to Constellation Field on Friday, the Skeeters took on division rival York, but fell 4-1 with Dan Runzler
taking his second loss of the season. Alvaro Rondon was 1-4 with an RBI. The Skeeters rebounded Saturday, giving newcomer Matt Gage his first win with a 5-2 victory. Newcomer Juan Silverio was 2-4 with a home run and two runs scored. Closer Felipe Paulino notched his league-leading 21st save on the season. On Sunday the
Stafford Location 3531 S. Main Stafford, TX 77477 281-410-2009
Skeeters took a 5-1 lead over York and held on to win 5-3. Kraig Sitton won and Denis Phipps went 1-3 for an RBI and two runs. Paulino picked up his 22nd save. Schedule The Skeeters continue their series with York through Thursday. They then travel to Lancaster
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MON
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2018 Promotional Schedule
Margarita & Dollar Dog Monday / Military Monday: Dollar hot dogs and discounted margaritas. Those with a military ID get in free Two for Tuesday: Buy one field box ticket and get one field box ticket free, half priced groups Kids in Free Wednesday: Kids (12 and under) get in free. Field box only, excludes performance groups. Not applicable 6/13 or 7/18. Thirsty Thursday: $2 beer and sodas Fireworks Friday: Postgame fireworks shows Saturday Giveaway: Giveaways or a postgame concert Sunday Funday: Autographs and giveaways, pregame catch on the field, postgame Kids Run the Bases (Dr. Larry Caldwell)
1 2 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 24 25 26 28 29 30 31
Kids in Free Wednesday Thirsty Thursday Fireworks Tracy McGrady Bobblehead Giveaway (Assured Flow Solutions - 2,000) Football Night / Football Giveaway (Fluor - 1,000) Margarita Monday / Dollar Dog Monday / Military Monday Two for Tuesday Kids in Free Wednesday Thirsty Thursday Fireworks Jack Ingram Post Game Concert (Silver Eagle) Sunday Funday Two for Tuesday Kids in Free Wednesday Thirsty Thursday Fireworks
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for three games with the Barnstormers. After taking Monday off they head to Southern Maryland for three games with the Blue Crabs. They return to Constellation Field Aug. 10 for seven games against the Somerset Patriots, who lead the Liberty Division. On the promotional side, children get in free on Wednesday, Thursday is Thirsty Thursday with $2 beer and soda, and Aug. 10 is Friday fireworks. There are two giveaways coming up. Aug. 11 is the Tracy McGrady Skeeters bobblehead giveaway and Aug. 12 is football night with a football giveaway. Transactions The Skeeters signed pitcher Matt Gage and resigned Dallas Beeler. Slade Heathcott was placed on the restricted list.
Former Skeeter Welington Dotel of the York Revolution returns safe to first while Skeeters first baseman Matt Chavez awaits the throw from the pitcher. (Photo by Joe Southern)
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League news The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball recently announced the name of the new team scheduled to start next season in High Point, N.C. After fan voting, the team will be called the Rockers in honor of the city’s history with furniture making. Skeeter of the Week Fear the beard! Felipe Paulino is the Skeeter of the week for picking up his 22nd save of the season in Sunday’s win. He leads the Atlantic League in that category. The former Major Leaguer has not allowed a run over his last 18 appearances, spanning 18 innings pitched. The 18-inning scoreless streak is the longest scoreless streak from a Skeeters reliever this season, surpassing Danny Reynolds, who threw 15 scoreless innings before having his contract purchased by the Milwaukee Brewers on June 1. Paulino’s 0.48 ERA is the lowest of any pitcher in the league with at least 30 innings pitched. The former Major Leaguer has also struck out 43 batters over his last 22 outings (23.1 IP). Derrick Loop set the Skeeters’ single-season saves record in 2016 with 32, not including four saves in the 2016 postseason.
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
H CLUB, FROM PAGE 1 more confident in their public speaking skills, and it’s probably what draws in the largest number of members in Toastmasters,” he said. Once someone joins, Johnson said they find out quickly Toastmasters is not just about public speaking – it’s also about how to run meetings, how to lead a group, and how to provide effective feedback. Over the years, Johnson knows many Toastmasters success stories. “I’ve seen a person with social anxiety disorder be transformed into a confident dramatic speaker through this encouraging, supportive and friendly club environment. It’s my goal for the Missouri City Toastmasters Club to bring the transformative power of Toastmasters to this commu-
nity,” he said. Along with Johnson, Romaine recalled one new member story that still remains with him. “A nice young man joined back in 2001, who had a stuttering problem. He wanted to join the club, and wanted to be able to communicate with people, but he was also having to work practicing his technique to reduce his amount of stuttering. He gave some inspirational speeches about his problem, and while working on these speeches, he attended meetings and gradually gained his confidence. He was really an inspiration. Within a year he was giving some of the best speeches we ever heard. He eventually started his own successful business,” Romaine said. There’s a varying degree of social anxiety and shyness for a few new members, said Romaine, with some
Anthony Maroulis, left, and Robert “Jobby” Johnson.
literally in tears at having to speak in front of people. He is confident Toastmasters can make everyone the speaker they were meant to be, citing Toastmasters credo about communication and promoting leadership among members. He said he still is inspired by the quote from Helen Blanchard, the first female
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www.fortbendstar.com LEGALS ORDINANCE NO. 1117 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER 102 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY, THE SAME BEING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE, BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT TO THE ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF GREATER HOUSTON, AN EXISTING ASSEMBLY GROUP A-3 OCCUPANCY, SPECIFICALLY, A RELIGIOUS FACILITY, FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE GROUP A-3 OCCUPANCY ON A 9.844 ACRE TRACT OF LAND LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY IN ZONING DISTRICT MU; AND FURTHER IDENTIFIED AS BEING LOCATED AT 610 BRAND LANE; PROVIDING REQUIREMENTS AND CONDITIONS FOR THIS SPECIFIC USE PERMIT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING A PENALTY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF; AND FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE IS PASSED WAS OPEN AS REQUIRED BY LAW. PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 18TH DAY OF JULY, 2018.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS COLLECTION SYSTEM REHABILITATION PROJECT D (PACKAGE #2 – PIPE BURST) 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:
Collection System Rehabilitation Project D (Package #2 – Pipe Burst) CIP PROJECT NUMBER: WW1601 LOCATION OF WORK: City of Sugar Land, Fort Bend County, Texas 77479 The project consists of the rehabilitation of approximately 11,125 L.F. of existing 6” thru 15” sanitary sewer by pipe bursting and approximately 320 L.F. of existing 6” thru 8” sanitary sewer by curedin-place pipe (CIPP) lining. The project also includes television inspection, manhole rehabilitation, service reconnections, and all labor, equipment, materials, and incidentals required for the project. All work described in the bid form and in these specifications and drawings will be performed under a single prime contract. Bid documents may be obtained from www.CivcastUSA.com, search Fort Bend County. Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications, plans, and bid documents for this project. There is NO charge to view or download documents. Sealed bids one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, City Secretary Office, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North, Room 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 23, 2018, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.
by Dr. Eric Tepper
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Feet are designed to support the average weight for a particular body frame. A small weight gain may not be concerning, but the addition of 25 or more pounds increases the likelihood of developing foot problems. As body mass becomes heavier, the foot muscles, tendons, and joints are required to withstand more pressure. Feet become overloaded, and some painful physical changes can occur. Flattened arches, misaligned bones, and damaged tissues are all potential consequences of being overweight. Normal gait patterns may also become altered. Another serious concern is that excess weight can lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes. People with this form of the disease are at greater risk for foot infections and/or numbness (neuropathy). HINT: Podiatrists can diagnose and treat foot problems that develop after weight gain; however, there is evidence to suggest that losing some weight may also help reduce foot pain. What are your feet saying about the state of your health? Are they crying out for a little less weight bearing down on them? Do they demand immediate attention, or do they just require periodic routine maintenance? In any case, you’ll find the foot care you need at our office. Conveniently located in Sugarland, you needn’t travel any further than 3143 Hwy. 6 South for compassionate, experienced, professional care for a full range of podiatric problems. Comprehensive foot care for the family begins with a call to 281-980-3668.
08-01-18 Dr. Tepper - 2x4 - ff-2
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Toastmasters International President. “If you get out of Toastmasters all you can get out of Toastmasters, you’ll never get out of Toastmasters.” “I’m retired now and Toastmasters helped me in my career, and put me in a position to be successful as an engineering technical consultant; I’ve seen Toastmasters help a lot of other people, too. And it’ s a good way to get to know people,” Romaine said. The new Toastmasters Club meets every Thursday from 7-8 p.m. at the Harvest United Methodist Church, 9029 Sienna Ranch Road in Missouri City. Meetings are open to the public. For more information, go to their website at https://mcclub.toastmastersclubs.org or the Toastmasters site at www. toastmasters.org or follow @ Toastmasters on Twitter.
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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, August 30, 2018, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.
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: BID NUMBER: ITB 2018-25 Next Generation Security Gateway LOCATION OF WORK: Various Locations Throughout the City of Sugar Land Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com or by contacting jposcovsky@sugarlandtx.gov
A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 15, 2018, Brazos Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North, Sugar Land, Texas 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, August 9, 2018, 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 bid must be received by Friday, August 17, 2018 on or before 5:00 p.m. Questions will be submitted through the CivCast Website – www.civcastusa.com.
Questions regarding this bid must be submitted online to Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com by Thursday, August 2, 2018 on or before 3:00 P.M.
The City will award and give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) 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.
CPA firm located in SW Houston has an opening for a full-time tax preparer. CPA a must, with 5+ years experience. Work involves tax prep using Lacerte tax software and client writeup work using QuickBooks software. Flexible hours. SIMPLE Retirement Plan offered. Flexible Spending Plan offered. Non-smoker. Professional atmosphere. Salary DOE $80,000$100,000/year. Fax resume to (713) 776-0539 or email to cathy@schorrecpa.com.
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Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUSA.com or documents may be purchased for $50 in the office of the Project Landscape Architect: White Oak Studio at 611 W 22nd St #209, Houston, TX 77008.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS NEXT GENERATION SECURITY GATEWAY
TAX PREPARERFULL TIME
St. Theresa Catholic Church Community Center 705 St. Theresa Blvd. Sugar Land
CIP PROJECT NAME: Cullinan Park Improvements – Section 1, Phase 1 CIP PROJECT NUMBER: PK1704 LOCATION OF WORK: Cullinan Park 12414 Highway 6 S, Sugar Land, TX 77498
The City will award and give notice within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.
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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:
Questions regarding this bid must be received by submitted online to the www.CivCastUSA.com system by Tuesday, August 21, 2018 on or before 5:00 P.M.
HELP WANTED
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NOTICE TO BIDDERS CULLINAN PARK IMPROVEMENTS – SECTION 1, PHASE 1
A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at: 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 16, 2018, at Cane Room, 1st Floor, Sugar Land City Hall 2700 Town Center Blvd North, Sugar Land, TX 77479.
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LEGALS Porter Superior Court Valparaiso Indiana Cause Number: 64D02-1801-DN-000794 Marriage of Yaminibahen B Patel (Petitioner) vs. Bharat Thakorbhai Patel (Respondent) You are sued by the Petitioner. The nature of the proceedings against you is a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage which is on file in the Office of the Clerk. Your Final Hearing is August 21, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the Porter Superior Court, 16 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383. If you fail to file a written appearance with the Clerk and serve a copy on Petitioner’s counsel, you may not receive notice of any further proceedings in this action. Your continued failure to appear may result in a final judgment by default. If you have a claim for relief against the Petitioner you may be required to assert such claim in a written pleading to be filed with the Clerk. Any claim or defense you may have in response to the Petition may be raised without written claim. The following manner of service is hereby designated: Service by Publication Law Office of Traficante 2047 Crisman Rd. Portage, IN 46368 (219) 762-6615
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THE STAR
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, August 1, 2018
F ORT B END NEW LISTING
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
H OME S HOWCASE NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
F ORT B END
OXFORD/COMMONWEALTH - Popular Designed Upgrades through out this Gorgeous Home in Highly Sought after Commonwealth. Backs to a Wooded Greenbelt Levee - No Back Neighbors. Rich Hardwoods & Tile throughout 1st floor. (‘18) New Ext./Int. Paint, (‘18) Master bath w/new high-end Granite Counter tops, brush nickel water faucets & framed mirror.(‘18) New Roof 50 year shingles w/ Ridge Vents. New (‘18) Blinds. Home also has a Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis on Kit. sink. Double Paned Windows. 16 Seer 2 stage HVAC. Lushly landscaped back yard w/auto. sprinkler sys. & large tired wood deck for entertaining. $389,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM4123 SI)
OXFORD/COMMONWEALTH – Wonderfully Updated/Upgraded Perry 2-Story home w/Master down located on a double culdesac street. Fresh Neutral Paint & Carpet 2017. Updated Kitchen w/SS appls. & re-finished darker style cabinets. Master Bath Upgraded w/Frameless Shower Enclosure, Granite Counter, Tile Walls w/Shadow box & Accent Tile. Updated Light Fixtures & Hardware. Formal Living room w/Gas Log Fireplace. Huge Gameroom Upstairs w/Double Bi-Folding French Doors to Study. No Backyard Neighbors. $389,000. Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM3914BS)
NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
H OME S HOWCASE THE ESTATES OF OYSTER CREEK – Hidden Jewel of Sugar Land. Semi-Custom Neighborhood w/Low Taxes! Det. 3 Car Garage & Porte-Cochere. Culdesac street. Beautiful Architectural Designed Home w/Juliette Style Balcony over Lg. Foyer. High-end Amenities Throughout. Rich 5” Slat Hardwood Floors. Real Wood Plantation Shutters Throughout! French Doors open to the For. Living Room which could also be a Library. Open concept style Kit. w/SS Appliances, Granite Counter Tops, Island, Built-in Desk Area, Butler’s Pantry, Walk-in Pantry & Abundance of Cabinet & Counter Space. Main Room features a Cast Stone Gas Log Fireplace w/Built-in Shelves & Cabinets on each side. Covered Balcony & Covered Back Patio. $549,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM919PS).
The Virginia Mack Team ABR, CBR, CRS, GRI, HALL of Fame, PLATINUM CLUB
3 OFFERS 3 DAYS
(281) 207-5200 RE/MAX Southwest • (281) 491-1776 X5200
COMMONWEALTH PARK/COMMONWEALTH – Beautiful Upgraded Stately Home on a Large Corner Lot
with a Side-Loading Garage. Located on a Double Cul-de-Sac Street! Over $50K in Updates! Also features a “Laguna Style” Heated Pool w/Tanning Ledge. The Backyard Backs to a Greenbelt! (2017) painted kit. cabinets. (2017) new water heater. (2015) Upstairs AC System. High-end Engineered Wood in formals, family room, staircase steps & master bedroom (2015) & Upgraded Carpet (2016). Huge Upstairs Game room that leads to all 4 bedrooms & study! 2” Faux Blinds throughout. A wall of Custom built-ins in Formal Living Room. The backyard is perfect for outdoor entertaining. It features a large extended patio area & a private pa $489,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM47SS)
AnitA Milne
RIVERS EDGE - Come discover all the small town country feel of living in Rivers Edge. Lovely 3 + Flex Room (could be Study/Media/Music/Exercise/Den or For. Liv. Room) home with partial wrap around front porch & Flagstone walk-up path. No Back Neighbors! Open Concept Floor Plan. Laminate “wood like” flooring. Lots of Architectural Flair - Art Niches, Columns (in & out) & Archways. Interior Paint & Carpet (2015). Kitchen features SS Appliances & Extended Breakfast Bar. Living Room with Cast Stone Style Gas Log Fireplace. $230,000 CALL VIRGINIA MACK 281-207-5200 (VM2615OR)
NEW LISTING
GREATWOOD KNOLL – Fabulously upgraded Home with pool/spa/tanning ledge w/umbrella, Pool sweep included. Note: High vaulted ceilings. Hardwood flooring. Upgraded Kitchen w/granite counter tops, SS appliances. Upgraded Executive Master bath w/ Frameless Shower enclosure. Granite counters, jetted tub, large walk-in closet. Upstairs Game-room. Private backyard.New Furnace 1/2018. $299,500. Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM210KF).
NEW LISTING
D SOL
www.ftbendhomes.com www.virginiamack.com e-mail:virginiamack@ ftbendhomes.com Each office Independently Owned & Operated
COMMONWEALTH PARK – RARE NewMark Home In Highly Sought After Commonwealth! New (2018) Painted Interior Walls. Beautiful 5” Brazilian Hardwoods & 20” Porcelain Tile Downstairs. Updated Kitchen Appliances & Granite Counter Tops & Island. Great Location with Exemplary Schools. Close to Area Shopping & Dining. $374,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM75BC).
COMMONWEALTH PARK - Wonderful Updated Perry Home with 3rd floor bonus rooms! Resort Style Sculpted Pool with corner ledge, flagstone edging, heated spa, rock waterfall, outdoor shower, lush landscaping, decking style padio. Upgraded Master suite with frameless shower enclosure, updated tile walls with shadow box, sitting ledge, rain shower & body sprayers. New Carpet & Paint (2018). Large Game Room & much more! $524,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200. (VM3909SM)
PRICE REDUCED
BEARD REALTY GROUP
281-413-9732
MEADOWS PLACE
PARKGLEN EXOTIC ISLE / LOT
PRICE REDUCED
DORRANCE
BARBARA MONTGOMERY cell: 713-898-3938 office: 281-980-5050
HORNBROOK
3/2/2 • $172,500 GREAT BUY!
montgomb@garygreene.com
3/2/2 • $169,000
barbarajmontgomery.com
FRESH PAINT, TILE AND WOOD LAMINATE FLOORS.
Incredible opportunity to build in a private retreat on a heavily wooded 2 lot homesite on The Colorado River. 15 Homes already there! Community Pool / HOA / Caretaker / Access by Tram or Barge. $75,000 CALL BARBARA MONTGOMERY
713-898-3938
QUAIL VALLEY
Lovely 2 story home in the heart of Quail Valley, close to the golf course and Quail Valley Center. Large corner lot, large enough for a pool! Updated kitchen with granite and a gas cook top. Large kitchen and breakfast area! Slate floors, wood laminate floors upstairs. Bring an offer! $269,000 CALL BARBARA MONTGOMERY
713-898-3938 BM5906LFC
BM3046BB
NEW LISTING
FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISING NEEDS CALL 281-690-4200 www.FortBendStar.com
08-01-18 ANITA MILNE
713-416-0791 kim@kimtruitt.com www.kimtruitt.com GARY GREENE
Wonderful starter home in the heart of Sienna! 3 bedroom home features granite kitchen counters, brand new Stainless appliances. Wood flooring in family & dining room. Recent roof (Jan 2018). And wonderful screened in porch w/ceiling fan for enjoying the outdoors bug-free! Backs up to wooded area & retention pond so nice and private. Open, flowing floor plan. $235,000 MLS # 16819818
SIENNA- Over 100K in upgrades makes this home unique! Professionally remodeled kitchen w/ Correa Marble countertops, SS appliances. Elegant walnut accent cabinet and range hood. Hardwood white oak flooring thru-out down. Recent roof and AC’s. Wonderful floor plan with open concept kitchen-living area, master suite, study, dining down. 3 bedrooms, family room, gameroom up $499,000 MLS# 48320989
One of the original luxurious Sugar Creek homes, this stately residence is for the first time available for purchase. The 3 expansive gathering areas (Living room, Den/Family room, Sunroom) & open, flowing floor plan have hosted many a social & holiday gathering and is just a few updates away from being the belle of the ball once again. 4 bedrooms (master down) 3/1 baths plus study (up). Recent roof and AC’s. $429,500 MLS #54228540
LOOKING FOR
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Find them on the Community Calendar EACH WEEK!
Pg. 10
WCJC18RegAdFALL8.3125x5Fo.indd 1
7/9/18 9:35 AM
SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2018 • 10am -2pm
McElvy Vasquez Media &
F
40th Anniversary
DE L
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Present
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12016 University Blvd, Sugar Land FREE ADMISSION for the first 200 attendees, then reduced admission until 2PM
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CALL TODAY! 281-690-4210
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, August 1, 2018 • PAGE
FBISD resolves civil rights compliance review regarding student disciplinary practices
guide them through behavior management scenarios that keep their campuses safe and secure. The department also trains and advises campus administrators on disciplinary procedures and hears all expulsion appeals to ensure that discipline is fairly and consistently applied in accordance with the FBISD Code of Conduct. The code of conduct outlines all expectations for student behavior and is reviewed annually and approved by the board of trustees. “In our recent conversations with the Office of Civil Rights, Fort Bend ISD has been proud to share the details of what we have done in the last five years to support students and staff members, and demonstrate that these efforts
are working,” said Dr. Dupre. “The implementation of an enhanced organizational structure, along with ongoing training, is a part of our ongoing efforts to provide safe and supportive learning environments for all students, but I am most proud of our efforts to build relationships between our students and staff.” Focusing on positive behavior interventions, Fort Bend ISD and its staff have implemented restorative discipline practices at selected middle school and elementary campuses, which provide students with proactive relationship building and problem-solving skills that help them to self-regulate their behavior. These practices involve collaboration between students, staff
and parents, and support the creation and sustainment of positive culture and climates by focusing on building relationships, students’ and staff’s needs, and the causes and effects of problem behavior. “During the last five years, Fort Bend ISD has actively worked with our staff members and administrators to take preemptive actions to help improve student behavior – but also increase our early identification and intervention measures. We have seen positive results, and as a district that is focused on the whole-child and teaching students to be responsible for their behavior, we are committed to continuing this work, long after the OCR investigation is complete,” Dupre said. As a part of the resolution, Fort Bend ISD will continue to review and provide training regarding its discipline policies and procedures and will track and monitor discipline data.
had befriended Scott Nethery, whom he had seen one day in a restaurant wearing a giant blue ring. The ring was from the 1995 World Series champion Atlanta Braves. Nethery was working in the front office at the time. Nethery got Peters in touch with former Braves pitcher John Smoltz and asked him to write the foreword. “We reached out to him and he’s like ‘yeah, let’s do this,’” Peters said. Nethery and several other notables – among them Nolan Ryan, Bo Eason, Larry Dierker, Woody Williams, and Peters’ former high school coach Lee Driggers – all contributed endorsements. Today Peters is a new man.
He is enjoying fatherhood and is active at Sugar Creek Baptist Church. “If I’m God-centered, then life’s really good. But if I’m Jon-centered, you never know what you might get,” he said. Publishing the book has also opened new doors for Peters. “Speaking requests have been coming non-stop,” he said. In addition to being an author, he is also a motivational speaker and shares his testi-
mony on a regular basis. His book can be purchased on his website, www.jonpeters.org, along with booking requests to have him speak. The book is print-on-demand and can also be purchased through Amazon and Barnes and Noble. “Writing the book has really increased my faith,” he said. “All I’m trying to do is get out of God’s way and walk through any doors that are opened. He will do His part, and it’s up to me to do my part.”
From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
Fort Bend ISD has resolved a compliance review initiated by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR) regarding the district’s disciplinary practices. In May of 2012, the OCR notified Fort Bend ISD that it was seeking to determine whether the district discriminated against African-American students by disciplining them more frequently and harshly than other similarly situated students. Following six years of investigation, the OCR did not make any finding that the district discriminated against any students and did not otherwise identify any wrongdoing or non-compliance with federal law. After joining the district in April of 2013, Dr. Charles Dupre created the Department of Student Affairs to support campus principals and administrators, and
H BOOK, FROM PAGE 1 Then came the night when he couldn’t hide it any longer. After binging with the bottle he finally listened to the voice in his head telling him to get help. At first he resisted. “I’m supposed to be a strong, tough guy. I’m not supposed to reach out for help,” he told himself. But the voice was persistent and at 2:30 a.m. he picked up the phone and called his boss. “I want to die. I can’t stop drinking,” he told him. His boss, stunned at the news, came over and soon Peters was in rehab and entering Alcoholics Anonymous. He got better and then relapsed. Then he got Jesus and got serious. “I have more happiness, more peace, and more freedom today than I’ve ever had,” he said. “I wake up with a lot of hope.” Having been highly selfcentered in his younger years, Peters has found a passion for helping others. “I’m seeking out other people to help,” he said. One of those ways was by sharing his life story in a book. Published in March, “When Life Grabs You By The Baseballs: Finding Happiness in Life’s Changeups” is a noholds-barred look at the rise, fall, and rebirth of the man who squandered greatness but beat the devil in the bottle. Getting the book written, however, was one of the toughest battles of Peters’ life. “There were many times I wanted to throw it in the trash. I was tired of writing,” he said. The process began in late 2014 when Peters felt called to, “try and do more with what God has given me.” In 2015 he began writing and journaling. He found the process to be both a blessing and a curse, as he had to re-live hard times and fight for details lost in an alcoholic fog. Finally, in 2017, he finished the manuscript. He woke up the next day and realized he was only going to get one shot at this, so he determined to make it the best he could. He turned the manuscript over to ghostwriter Ginger Kolbaba. “Ginger took the original manuscript, interviewed me for two days, and reworked the whole thing,” he said. She did enough revision to get co-author credit. Kolbaba wasn’t the only one to contribute to the book. Earlier, Peters
9
Former FBISD students may be eligible for diploma under SB 463 From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
Former Fort Bend ISD students who completed all graduation-required coursework but failed to pass the state’s previously administered and required exit-level exams may be eligible to receive a high school diploma under new rules established by the Texas Education Agency. Senate Bill 463, adopted by the 84th Texas Legislature, provides an opportunity for students who have earned all the necessary high school credits to earn a high school diploma and graduate from high school through the use of an Individual Graduation Committee (IGC) utilizing state determined criteria. Following rules established by the Texas Education Agency in May, Fort Bend ISD established an application process for students who are eligible for consideration. Once former students complete an application, Fort Bend ISD
will establish an Individual Graduation Committee (IGC) to determine whether the student qualifies to graduate under all of the required components of the law. It is important for former students to understand that the opportunity provided through SB 463 is only valid through September 2019, so it is important for those who may be eligible to act promptly and contact the district for the application. To be eligible to graduate and receive a diploma via the IGC, a student must have: Entered the 9th grade before the 2011-12 school year, earned all required high school course credits, attempted any required state assessment which the student has not passed at least three times; and Provide documentation that they have: Military experience, or successfully completed college courses and received college credit, or acquired a GED equivalency/ other assessment equivalency, or possess industry certification.
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4501 Cartwright Road, Ste 306 • Missouri City, TX 77459
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Q: A:
What do I need to know about having my vehicle towed after an accident? Know which tow company you would use in case of an accident before you have an accident! You may contact the collision repair facility you Chuck Charlton would use in advance to obtain name and phone number of a reputable towing company. Keep this information in your glove box with your proof of insurance. If you are involved in an accident during business hours, it is wise to go ahead and have the tow company take your vehicle to the shop of your choice. If your accident is after business hours, make sure you ask the wrecker driver where your vehicle will be towed. You may be in the situation where you will not have the opportunity to choose your tow company. In this case, ALWAYS ask what the charges will be an NEVER sign a tow bill that does not list the total charge. Be Informed?
Charlton’s Body Repair
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 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 YOUR LIFE. YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR BANK. 10:30 am: Sanctuary Worship 281-499-1126 For more information, please visit www.fumcmc.org Local Family Business since 1957 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street • Stafford, TX 77477 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com
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
www.postoakbank.com YOUR LIFE. YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR BANK.
Post Oak Bank welcomes the opportunity to visit with you about your deposit and loan needs. Call one of our experienced lenders today! NICKI B. BLACK Senior Vice President
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13010 Murphy Road Stafford, Texas 77477
713-499-1366
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SATURDAY
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Sunday evening services: 5:00 pm Bible Study (all ages): Sun 9:00 am & Wed 7:00 pm Tuesday Adult Bible Class: 10:30 am In the heart of Mo City - with the city at heart
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
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God”
Senior VP & Advisory Director
MONDAY -FRIDAY
MISSOURI CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-261-8944
Scripture of the week
BRIAN TAVE
LOBBY HOURS 9:00 AM TO 5:00 PM
CHURCH OF CHRIST
-John 1:12
GOT NEWS?
Email your news or press release to editor@FortBendStar.com
THE STAR
PAGE 10 • Wednesday, August 1, 2018
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 AUGUST TEEN EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY
The Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd, offers a variety of programs for the Young Adult community. Programs are free and open to the public. To register, visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, or call 281-238-2952, or visit the library.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 1 LEGALLINE, FREE LEGAL ADVICE OVER THE PHONE
Licensed volunteer attorneys offer free legal advice over the telephone, 5-9 p.m. at 713-759-1133. The legal advice line for Spanish speakers, is Thursday, Aug. 2, 6-8 p.m. at 713-759-1133.
THE BASICS: MEMORY LOSS, DEMENTIA, AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Is forgetfulness a normal sign of aging, or a sign of AlzheimerÕ s disease? Learn the early signs of AlzheimerÕ s at the University Branch Library, 6:30 p.m., 14010 University Blvd. in Sugar Land. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-633-4100 or 281-633-4734.
THURSDAY, AUG. 2 THE CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS GARAGE SALE
Thursday, 6-9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 3, 9 a.m. to 7p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 4, 9 a.m. to noon. St. Theresa Catholic Church Community Center, 705 St. Theresa Blvd, Sugar Land. Proceeds from the sale are for scholarships and charitable donations. For more information, call 281-494-1983 or 713-256-7358.
ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264
Will meet at 2855 Westminster Plaza Blvd., Houston. Doors open at 11 a.m. Call Jean at 713-838-7383 for more information and reservations.
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
For parents of children with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/ DD). 11:30 a.m., at The Arc of Fort Bend County, 123 Brooks St. Sugar Land. The topic is Ò Strategies for a Successful Back-to-School.
TEXAS INDIGENOUS SNAKES
Learn about snakes at the Rosenberg Civic Center, 3825 Hwy. 36, Rosenberg, 6:30 p.m. The program includes venomous snakes. For more information, call 281-633-7033 or email mmcdowell@ag.tamu.edu
FRIDAY, AUG. 3 BRING YOUR OWN CRAFT
Sugar Land Branch Library will host the event, 1-3 p.m., 550 Eldridge. Share tips, get ideas and inspiration, and enjoy fellow crafters. All experience levels welcome. Bring your projects and crafting supplies. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2140 or 281-633-4734.
SATURDAY, AUG. 4 SAHAJA YOGA MEDITATION
The Sugar Land Branch Library will present the program, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 550 Eldridge Rd. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2140 or 281-633-4734.
TEXAS VETERANS BENEFIT FAIR
Military veterans and their families are invited to the free benefit fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Stafford Center, 10505 Cash Road, Stafford. Receive information about state and federal benefits available, as well as access to reps regarding pending claims, health care, education, employment benefits and more. For more information, call 800-252-8387 or visit TexasVeterans.com.
BARGAIN BOOK SALE
Hosted at the First Colony Library, 2121 Austin Parkway, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Paperbacks, hardbacks, DVDs, children’s/youth books, nonfiction at bargain prices. Donations of good condition books, CDs, and DVDs are accepted during the sale or any time the library is open. Proceeds benefit the library and its programs.
MONDAY, AUG. 6 JOB-SEARCH SURVIVAL TIPS
Missouri City. For more information and to register or volunteer, visit www.arcoffortbend.org/2018-tween-teen-respite-program.
savings. Free and open to the community. For more information, contact melinda@siennachurch.org or call 281-778-2046.
SATURDAY, AUG. 11 HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT
TUESDAY, SEPT. 10 PECAN GROVE WOMEN’S CLUB
Sugar Land Branch Library will host the seminar, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 550 Eldridge Road. Learn how to prepare your home and family for a hurricane or other severe weather event. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2140 or 281-633-4734.
EZYBIZPLAN TRAINING
Anyone starting a new business is encouraged to attend a hands-on workshop on how to create a business plan at Sienna Branch Library 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. in Missouri City. Presented by SCORE, the program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2900 or 281-633-4734.
NOW THROUGH AUG. 12 YMCA OPERATION BACKPACK, DONATIONS DROP OFF
This annual event asks residents to purchase school supplies and a backpack and drop them at a YMCA or participating businesses. Drop off locations include: Fort Bend Family YMCA, 4433 Cartwright Road, Missouri City; T.W. Davis Family YMCA, 911 Thompson Hwy, Richmond; First Colony Christian Church, 4141 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land; First Choice ER locations throughout Fort Bend County; Ashley Home Store, Southwest Freeway at First Colony Blvd.; and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, 17500 West Grand Parkway South, Sugar Land. For a list of items requested, visit: https://patch.com/texas/sugarland/ymca-operationbackpack-drop-locations-sugar-land.
TUESDAY, AUG. 14 BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH FOR CHILDREN WITH I/DD
Children age 0-21 with an intellectual or developmental disability are invited to the Fort Bend ChildrenÕ s Discovery Center Sensory Friendly Hour (9-10 a.m.) A free Family of 4 Pass is available to a child with I/DD, whose parents RSVP by Aug. 7 to kaxtell@arcoffortbend.org.
FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS LUNCHEON
All retired public school personnel are invited to the Ò O Happy DayÓ luncheon, 11 a.m. at Sugar Land United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Road. This annual kick off meeting celebrates the new school year for retirees. For more information, call 281-499-5885.
One Sugar Creek Center Blvd.
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Low Cost Animal Wellness Clinic 713-433-6421 14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org
Hope For Three Autism Advocates is hosting the fair at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, from 10 a.m. to noon. Visit a variety of providers, therapists, nutritionists and professionals. Free and open to the public. Pre-registration required. For more information or to register, visit hopeforthree.org/event/hopefair or call 281-245-0640.
SHRED PAPER AND DISCARD ELECTRONICS
Visit Thornton Middle School, 1909 Waters Lake Boulevard, Sienna, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Purge unneeded papers, old cell phones, hard drives and more with ProShred. Enjoy DJ Rico, complimentary popcorn and watermelon, various food trucks will be there as well. For more information, visit www.siennaplantation.com.
OPERATION BACK PACK DROP
Love and Unity Works is sponsoring the 5th Annual event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Fellowship of Love Church, 10223 Clodine Road, Richmond. Free back packs, gift cards, haircuts, workshops, moonwalks and more. You must pre-register by visiting https://obpd2018.eventbrite.com or calling 281-497-1971.
TUESDAY, AUG. 21 LOVING FRIENDS MEETING
FREE RABIES VACCINE with the purchase of any shot package *Coupon must be presented at time of service. Expires: AUGUST 31, 2018
Business FORT BEND
KATY
THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
JOURNAL
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
STORY SPINNERS WRITING CLUB
ADOPT A SHELTER CAT
Fort Bend Pets Alive is partnering with Half Price Books in Sugar Land to find homes for shelter cats and to promote literacy among young readers. School aged children are invited to come read to a cat, receive an Ò I read to a catÓ bookmark and be eligible to adopt a cat for 50 perecent off 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.
INTERNATIONAL COFFEE HOUR
Beginning, Monday, Jan. 29, and the last Monday of every month, George Memorial Library will host the event beginning at 9 a.m. 1001 Golfview in Richmond. People of all nationalities are invited to come to the informal gathering to get to know one another, share cultural experiences. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281342-4455 or 281-633-4734.
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THURSDAY, AUG. 23 IS YOUR RETIREMENT AT RISK WORKSHOP
St. Catherine of Sienna Episcopal Church 4747 Sienna Parkway, Missouri City, is hosting the session, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Speakers will provide insights on how to be prepared in retirement and to manage retirement
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LISA N SIMS, AGENT Monday - Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 10 - 2 After hours by appointment
11647 S Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com
W A L K A B O U T W E D N E S D AY Now Open for Lunch @11AM 15253 S.W. Fwy Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-980-4329
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GOT NEWS?
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
The Kick Off Reception for the Boys and Girls Clubs tournament will take place at OCuSoft, 3044 Southwest Fwy, Rosenberg, beginning at 8 p.m. Learn more about the Fort Bend Boys and Girls Clubs and sign up for the tournament. For more information and to RSVP, email lrenaud@ bgcgh.org.
Enjoy Your Event. Let Us Do The Cooking. • Spay/Neuter surgeries • Wellness Exams • Vaccinations • Heartworm tests, prevention and treatment • Flea and tick medication • Microchipping
Caregivers of patients with AlzheimerÕ s disease or other related dementias are invited to attend the first Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. JohnÕ s United Methodist Church, 400 Jackson 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.
H.O.P.E (HELPING OUR PARENTS EXCEL) AUTISM RESOURCE FAIR
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 22 SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT
EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 27+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY
ONGOING RICHMOND-ROSENBERG ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
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 281-633-4734.
Fort Bend RecoversÉ With Creativity presents works of art submitted by Hurricane Harvey victims. Visit this free exhibit to see original interpretations of the event. Constellation Field, noon to 2 p.m. For more information visit fortbendrecovers.org/with-creativity.
THURSDAY, AUG. 9 MARVEL-OUS TRIVIA AND MOVIES
For 11-18-year-old Fort Bend residents with an intellectual or developmental disability. Parents get to take a break. Staffed with an ABA trained event director, two behavior technicians and teen and adult volunteers, 6-9 p.m. at Texana Learning Center, 2715 Cypress Point Dr.,
Dream4Adoption will sponsor their second annual run at Memorial Park in Sugar Land. The walk/run begins at 9 a.m., followed by the picnic. Each adult registered will have a chance in the mystery box give away. T-shirts given to paid registered guests signed up before Sept. 9. Visit dream4adoption.org to register.
SATURDAY, AUG. 18 THE HARVEY EXPERIENCE: ONE YEAR LATER
Dinner and entertainment begin at 5 p.m. at Quail Valley City Center., 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City. Scott Graham, a local, renowned pianist, will entertain. Loving Friends is a social group of men and women who lost their spouses and want to enjoy fellowship and friendship. Reservations required, please call 281-208-3124.
FRIDAY, AUG. 10 NIGHT OF FUN AND GAMES
SATURDAY, SEPT. 22 PICNIC AND FUN RUN
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.
The George Memorial Library will present the free, two-part series, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The series will continue on Thursday, Aug. 9, at the same place and time. Learn tips on writing a better resumŽ , researching prospective employers, interviewing and non-verbal skills, making a great first impression, networking, and much more. Free and open to the public. For more information, call at 281-3424455 or 281-633-4734.
The University Branch Library will host teens in grades 9-12 at 2 p.m., 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land. Superhero trivia and a superhero film are featured. Snacks and trivia prizes will be provided. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-633-5100 or 281-633-4734.
The group will meet at the Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club at 9:30 a.m. The fall program offers a fabulous quilt show. The quilts will be presented by members. Make reservation by contacting Kay at 281-2384002 kkmcninch@yahoo.com or Linda at 281-342-8575 lindasaad@gmail. com. Reservation deadline is Sept.6.
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