09-16-20 Edition of the Fort Bend Star by Fort Bend Star

Area students taking charge of future - Page 6

A recent visit to Jupiter Pizza and Waﬄes in Sugar Land was an out-of-this world experience for our taste buds. Read our review inside today on Page 7. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

WEDNESDAY • SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 5

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

New city manager alleges misuse of funds By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

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Odis Jones has wasted little time making an impact on Missouri City’s government. Two months after being selected as city manager in a contentious 4-3 vote by the Missouri City Council, Jones brought eyebrow-raising allegations to light during a special city council meeting Sept. 8. He told the council he had forwarded information

to Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton regarding the alleged misuse of city funds prior to his hiring as city manager. Jones said an initial internal control audit showed at least $20,000 from Missouri City’s public, educational and government (PEG) fund was instead used for hotels and flights. He did not indicate which city employee or employees had allegedly misused the money. “I wanted to make sure to

bring that to (city council’s) attention so that you were aware of that as I promised I would,” Jones said. According to federal law, an entity’s PEG fund is only allowed to be used for expenditures related to costs for production equipment or computer software for public access TV stations, such as the technology Missouri City uses to stream council meet-

SEE AUDIT PAGE 5

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Local Kroger workers push for hazard pay By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

When Joseph Garland heads to work each day at the Kroger in Sugar Land, he knows he is on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. Last week, he was among the employees demanding they continue to be better compensated for the risks they’re taking to come to work. Dozens of Kroger employees and labor union representatives gathered outside two west Hous-

Carolina Burciaga, center, daughter of late Richmond firefighter Ray Burciaga, addresses attendees to a memorial service for her father Friday at Richmond Fire Station No. 1. The event coincided with a cycling tour stop by the Texas Brotherhood, which honors first responders who have died. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

First responders honor late Richmond ﬁreﬁghter By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The death of longtime firefighter Ray Burciaga, who succumbed to cancer at age 57 on Feb. 17, 2019, left a gaping hole in the hearts of many in the city of Richmond and the community of first responders in Fort Bend County and beyond. “He never met a stranger,” his wife, Judi Burciaga said. “He was that type of person.” The Texas Brotherhood

Ride, a group of about 30 first responders, arrived Friday morning by bicycle to the Richmond Fire Station No. 1. The visit was part of their 17-leg journey to honor those who have died in the line of duty to try to provide emotional support for those affected by the loss of one of their own. Tim Dunn, the president of the Texas Brotherhood Ride and a firefighter with the Houston Fire Department, said the group began in 2014, inspired by a group of cy-

cling first responders in Florida and South Carolina. Following their stop in Richmond – on the 19th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S. – the cyclists’ next destination was the Houston Space Center, and the 2020 tour is set to conclude in Seguin, a town in Central Texas. “It’s so far-reaching,” Dunn said. “A lot of these

SEE MEMORY PAGE 4

Boys choir still carrying tune during pandemic By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

SEE KROGER PAGE 4

Local Kroger employee Joseph Garland, right, holds a sign during a protest Thursday in Houston. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

Members of the Texas Brotherhood, a group of ﬁrst responders from across the state, depart Friday from Richmond Fire Station No. 1 en route to Pearland. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

On a rainy September evening in Missouri City, masked boys steadily funnel into the First United Methodist Church. They are greeted with a temperature reading and sized for T-shirts before making their way into the rehearsal Bill Adams, left, directs the Fort Bend Boys Choir during a recent room. There, Bill Adams, the artis- rehearsal at a church in Missouri City. (Photo by Stefan Modrich) tic director and founder of the “We always have said that Fort Bend Boys Choir, goes to how to harmonize — he hopes to shape young boys into men music is the vehicle, the mediwork. “Mr. A,” as he is often called and “make a difference,” as um that we use to teach boys by his students, feels his role the choir’s shirts read, “one about life and community and about themselves,” Adams goes beyond teaching them boy at a time.”

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said. “So they learn a lot more than just the musical end of things.” The tour choir, a select group of top boys, has sung the national anthem at Houston Texans games and performed alongside the Houston Symphony. It has visited Canada and European cathedrals and was planning to make a trip to Mexico before the COVID-19 pandemic postponed those plans. In January, the choir sang six tracks for the recently-released video game “Wasteland 3” and performed Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” in a Polish film called “The Hater” after the producers of

the movie discovered their recording of the track on Spotify and obtained permission to use it. The boys, who range between the ages of 8-12, have been eager to resume singing together after they were forced to stay apart for a few months. For some, the choir is far more than a mere extracurricular activity. After practicing on March 5, the choir suspended all its rehearsals until Aug. 24., the first time they met in person since the pandemic took hold in the U.S. “It’s pretty significant that

SEE CHOIR PAGE 5

Learn more about Sweet Cash and support Sugar Land businesses at AllInForSLTX.com

THE STAR

PAGE 2 • Wednesday, September 16, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

FBISD offering 'grab and go' meals to all students By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

All Fort Bend ISD students can pick up two free meals per day through the end of the year after the district recently received a waiver from the Texas Department of Agriculture. A news release from FBISD said that until Dec. 31, all its students will be able to receive breakfast and lunch “Grab and Go” meals free of charge from one of 10 locations around the district. When picking up student meals, parents or guard-

ians must present either a student ID, birth certificate, student report card or an attendance record from the district’s online parent portal for each child. The meals will be available from 7:30- 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday through Friday with curbside service at the fol-

lowing locations:: • Dulles High School – 550 Dulles Ave. • Elkins High School – 7007 Knights Ct. • Hightower High School – 3333 Hurricane Ln. • Hodges Bend Middle School – 16510 Bissonnet St. • Kempner High School – 14777 Voss Rd. • McAuliffe Middle School – 16650 S Post Oak Rd. • Missouri City Middle School – 202 Martin Ln. • Ridge Point High School – 500 Waters Lake Blvd. • Travis High School – 11111 Harlem Rd. • Willowridge High School – 16301 Chimney Rock Rd.

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Area residents honored for donation to Mamie George Community Center By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

On Monday, Catholic Charities of Houston recognized donors Tom and Norma Petrosewicz, who recently donated $210,000 to the Mamie George Community Center in Richmond as part of Catholic Charities' Mission of Love campaign. “One of our family principles is, ‘The more you give, the more you get back,’" Tom Petrosewicz said in a news release. "We’ve definitely seen that with our friendships, our businesses, and with the love we see from this community.” According to the or-

ganization, the Mamie George Community Center has distributed more than 1.2 million pounds of food to 90,000 people since the local onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March. All of the center’s ongoing programs have continued with modifications to protect the safety of clients, volunteers and staff. Because seniors are unable to gather at the center for a nutritious midday meal in Patty’s Café, the community center's volunteers and staff have delivered more than 5,000 meals and groceries to them since the pandemic began. Catholic Charities said that the Mission of Love recognizes someone in

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Fort Bend who "exemplifies the vision of Catholic Charities." “I could not think of a more deserving couple to honor this year than Tom and Norma Petrosewicz,” , Catholic Charities Fort Bend Advisory chairman John Gillespie said in a news release. “Although they prefer to serve humbly and avoid the spotlight, they have made this exception in support of the Mamie George Community Center and the services that are provided every day to families in need.” The help appears to have been appreciated. “We are so grateful to all of our supporters! People were incredibly generous this year, and the timing couldn’t have been better," Mamie George Executive Director Gladys Brumfield-James said in a news release. "Fort Bend County is holding strong in this unique time, but too many of our residents are barely holding on." A full list of sponsors and donors can be found at CatholicCharities.org/ MissionofLove.

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Wednesday, September 16, 2020 • PAGE

How can you help others? Lace up those running shoes

Last week, I wrote about how your neighbors have been helping out people across the state and further up the Gulf Coast in Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. I want to share with you now how you can make a difference right here in Fort Bend County. It’s as simple as lacing up a pair of running shoes. How? It’s a reasonable question, and one I’d be inclined to ask if it weren’t for my own experience in these areas. The Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity announced it is going to hold its first “Raise the Roof” virtual run from Oct. 5-30. The event coincides with World Habitat Day, the first Monday in Octo-

Stefan Modrich

ber. All proceeds generated by the run will support the group’s mission of building new homes for low-income families. And I’m encouraging you to get involved in any way you can because I’ve seen firsthand how these opportunities to serve your community have shaped me and others. In 2016, I participated in

Pat’s Run, a 4.2-mile race founded by the Pat Tillman Foundation to honor the memory of the late Arizona State and Arizona Cardinals football star and a U.S. Army veteran who was killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan in 2004. I ran in the 2018 Chicago Marathon with Team One Step, a charity that works with children’s oncology services and helps kids with cancer live active and fulfilling lives. I was a small, humble part of that team, running my first-ever marathon and fundraising a small sliver of the $181,000 the group gathered in total. There are many talented people in our respective communities equipped

with the skills to benefit the vulnerable and less fortunate, and I see the potential for this event to be another rallying point for Fort Bend residents. Three virtues that Habitat for Humanity espouses are strength, stability and self-reliance, all of which are essential for building strong communities. Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity has constructed 88 homes since its founding in 1992 and plans for at least 15 more are in the works, two of which are slated for sometime this fall on a 6.5-acre tract of land the organization recently purchased. If you’re interested in a sponsorship, participating or volunteering, reach out

to Jess Holland, Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity’s development director. “We look forward to partnering with you to strengthen our communities in Fort Bend County by building homes and hope, and creating opportunities for families to be self-sufficient,” Holland wrote in an email. “However, we can’t do it alone, and need the support of community organizations and businesses such as yourselves.” Running for your own benefit is a challenge that I find stimulating and motivating enough on its own. And I liken volunteering your time or resources for a cause to be similar to starting to run. On the first day, you

SENI R VALUES

Area student named ambassador in essay contest By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend ISD announced Sept. 8 that Zane Ziad was chosen as the 2020 National Ambassador for the "Do the Write Thing "challenge, a writing campaign for middle school students. Ziad, a student at Garcia Middle School in Sugar Land, was one of two students chosen from the Houston/Harris County area out of

Bowie Ethan Garza Yaretzi Perez

more than 14,000 submissions. To hear Ziad's winning essay submission, go to dtwtx.org/blog/. Overall, FBISD had 507 submissions and 16 finalists. The other finalists are below.

might find that just the act of tying your sneakers and walking around the block is enough. A week later, you might be comfortable running a mile, and in a few more weeks, you’ll find yourself ready for your first 5K. You don’t need to muster an overwhelming display of support to make a big impact. Start by donating what you can, whether it be time, or your ability to communicate about service opportunities by word of mouth. Running can be a solitary sport, but in this, even socially distanced and virtually, we can all be stride-for-stride as we try to make Fort Bend County a great place to live for everyone.

and

Lake Olympia Bradley Garcia and Marylovelyn Okereafor

Will be featured again,

Garcia Najwa Falou and Ziad

Dulles Justin Le and Makayla Wolfe

Ziad

Fort Settlement Charlotte He and Samuel Koh

Hodges Bend Dustin Howard and Van Dao

Missouri City Hailey Hawkins and Mason Gibbs Thornton Ian Harper and Issabella Santo

Sugar Land recognizes volunteers of year By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The city of Sugar Land announced Monday that six citizens have been recognized for their service to the community last year. The city said the six

volunteers contributed more than 700 hours of service to Sugar Land in 2019, dedicating their time to seven city departments. The 2019 Departmental Volunteers of the Year are as follows: *Gabriel Rodriguez - Engineering, Permits

and Inspections *Barbara Hildebrand Animal Services *Eric Liu - Parks and Recreation *Yaffa Steubinger - T.E. Harman Center *Suzanne Whatley Fire *Trudy Thompson Human Resources.

Deadline September 23th, 2020 Publishing September 30th, 2020

EVERY HOME FBCA hires new admissions director EVERY WEEK From Staff Reports

Fort Bend Christian Academy announced last week that the school has named Tiffani Hoot as its new director of admissions. Hoot received her bachelor's degree in History and International Studies from Texas Lutheran University and her master's in Cross Cultural Studies from The University of Houston - Clear Lake. According to the school, Hoot brings a

EVERY

HOME

EVERY

WEEK

"wealth of knowledge and experience." Most recently, she served as the Texas Regional Admissions Counselor and Senior Texas Regional Admissions Counselor for The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Hoot began her administrative career at The University of Texas at San Antonio. While at UTSA, she cultivated relationships with high school counselors and prospective high school students, counseled freshmen about admis-

sions, and collaborated with campus partners in programming and recruitment efforts. She is also involved in the Texas Association for College Admissions and Counseling (TACAC) and the National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC), where she has served in leadership positions, according to the school. “I am excited to work with our newest FBCA Eagles and their families,” Hoot said in a news release from FBCA. “We are a choice institution

A Helping Hand

that offers all students the opportunity to develop into spiritually mature and academically prepared graduates.”

TO PLACE AN AD, CONTACT JOHN SAZMA. JSAZMA@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

281-690-4206

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2223 FM1092 • Missouri City, TX 77459 John Strader , Senior Pastor Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am Sunday Worship 10:45 am 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:00 pm AWANA/Youth www.hbctx.org

Ed’s Pharmacy (281) 499-4555

Get Answers For Your Vaccine Questions

Bacteria and viruses can enter the body and cause infections that lead to an illness. The body’s immune system is set up to fight infection and help the body remember the condition in order to fight it in the future. Vaccines also help reduce the risk of getting a second infection after a mild infection. It is normal to experience some mild symptoms such as fever after a vaccination because the immunity is building up inside the body. Vaccines are available to help prevent chickenpox, pneumococcal disease, diphtheria, rotavirus, flu, measles, rubella, Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningococcal disease, polio, whooping cough, tetanus, and mumps. The most common side effects after a vaccination are mild reactions such as pain, swelling, and tenderness at the area where the injection was administered. These reactions usually last a few days. Rare but serious reactions to vaccines could be caused by an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the vaccine. Get answers to vaccine questions from your healthcare provider.

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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 am Contemporary: 9:15 am / Traditional: 10:30 am Modern: 10:30 am Sunday School for all ages available at 9:15 www.christchurchsl.org EPISCOPAL

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602 605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477 SUNDAY: 10:15 am Worship Rite Two www.allsaintsstafford.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

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 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 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reverend Dr. Fred Seay, Pastor Sunday Worship In Person 11:00 am / Nursery Available Worship Online on YouTube www.fpcsl.org

Scripture of the week

Your Countywide Newspaper 281-690-4200

fortbendstar.com 281-690-4226

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11

THE STAR

PAGE 4 • Wednesday, September 16, 2020

★ MEMORY FROM PAGE 1 people come from different states, they’ve never met the person, never knew them, but we’re there to honor them because we all share that and we all understand that it’s one big brotherhood.” Richmond Fire Chief Michael Youngblood said the occasion commemorating Ray Burciaga’s passing was bittersweet for him. “I have mixed feelings about it, because it means there’s someone we’ve lost,” Youngblood said. “I’ve seen a lot of things in my career, but I’ve never seen anything like what’s going on with (COVID-19) and there’s a lot of anxiety in the world. To have these guys come by and visit and put the effort into riding bicycles all this way is really heartwarming.” Burciaga began his 28-year run in Richmond as a volunteer firefighter who rose through the

★ KROGER FROM PAGE 1 ton stores on Sept. 10 to protest the company’s May decision to remove employees’ hazard pay that had been in effect since March, when the pandemic reached the Houston region. The hazard pay provided employees an extra $2 per hour. About a dozen or so workers were at the Kroger at 1801 S. Voss Rd., while about 15 others joined Garland at the grocery chain’s location at 9919 Westheimer Rd. “We want to see about getting it back. All of the other stores are getting it,” said Garland, referring to other grocery retailers such as H-E-B and Walmart. “So why are we not getting it?” Clara Campbell, a spokesperson for Kroger’s Houston division, said in an email the company has invested more than $830 million across the company to keep its employees safe

ranks, becoming a fulltime firefighter and later enrolling in the police academy to become an arson investigator and fire captain before being named assistant emergency management coordinator in 2007. He was appointed chief of the city’s emergency management department in 2010. Richmond Fire Marshal Albert Cantu said Burciaga left “nothing undone” during his career as a first responder. “Ray knew a lot of people here,” Cantu said. “He was very respectful, just a good person all the way around. He was very dedicated to the city and the community.” Al Burciaga, Ray’s brother, started the Raymond V. Burciaga Memorial Scholarship Fund through his Fort Bend Helping Heroes Charity, based in Needville. The fund awarded its first scholarship, designed since the start of the pandemic. That includes several rounds of bonuses and premium pay, according to Campbell, along with implementing emergency paid leave in March for workers most directly affected by COVID-19. “Our most urgent priority throughout this pandemic has been to provide a safe environment for our associates and customers while meeting our societal obligation to provide open stores, ecommerce solutions and an efficiently operating supply chain,” she said. Employees like Garland, however, say taking away hazard pay flies in contrast to that philosophy. After receiving notice of the hazard pay severance in May, workers subsequently reached out to the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 455. The labor union represents grocery, retail and other workers in Texas and Louisiana.

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Members of the Texas Brotherhood, wearing blue and orange, pose with the family of late Richmond firefighter Ray Burciaga as well as other firefighters Friday at Richmond Fire Station No. 1. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

to aid children of first responders in Fort Bend County, to Brandon Anderson of Sugar Land. “I just thought it was very fitting because my

husband was in the service all his life,” Judi Burciaga said. “And he knew so many people that we wanted to do that for him, just as a legacy.”

Judi said she was grateful for the support from the Texas Brotherhood and that Ray would be proud and humbled by their recognition of his career.

“Everybody here has been touched by it, and it’s what keeps people coming back,” Dunn said. “It’s really an effort and a sacrifice to do it.”

“Apparently (this virus) is not going away. The employees are working hard; they’re risking their lives and their families’ lives to come in and make sure the community is getting the products that they need,” UFCW Local 455 Treasurer Shirley Rome said. “They’ve been here for the community, and we feel like the company should support them in that.” Additionally, Garland said the company is attempting to force employees over to a company-wide health plan – which Rome claims would cost more out-of-pocket annually than employees make in a year. A report from Eater Houston said Kroger also is reducing full-time positions at stores and capping vacation time for part-time employees. “(The company) is trying to take their voice away,” Rome said. Campbell said Kroger presented a “Last, Best and Final Offer” to UFCW on Aug. 19. She said

UFCW has refused to allow its Kroger employees to vote on it, and the store notified the union about its plan to move forward with implementation on Sept. 8. As part of the company’s offer, Campbell said every Kroger employee would receive a wage increase within six months. “We have heard from many of you that you want the opportunity to vote on our ‘Last, Best and Final Offer,’ and are frustrated that the union is not responding to your calls and messages to give you the opportunity to vote,” the company said in a Sept. 9 news release. “We hear your frustration. We believe our associates deserve better and that it’s time for you to receive the wage increases and other benefits outlined in our offer.” Implementation of the would-be plan includes transitioning associates’ health care coverage to a company-sponsored plan, and moving ben-

efits out of the current South-Central Health and Welfare Fund. Additionally, Campbell noted Kroger’s offer also would invest $47 million in wages for its employees. “We are proud of our dedicated associates who are on the frontlines, serving our customers when they need us most,” she said. “We also believe our associates have waited long enough for a wage increase. Our associates and their families deserve to be rewarded for their hard work.” Garland said that he works about 40 hours per week at the Kroger at 4825 Sweetwater Blvd. in Sugar Land, where he has been employed for 20 years. And the protest, he said, was not just for himself -- but for all employees, who he said deserve to be appreciated for the sacrifices they’ve made during the pandemic. “The bottom line is that we’re showing support, and we want that hazard pay back,” he said.

“We’re out here fighting for the common good of the working American.” According to Garland, the hazard pay gave employees an extra $2 per hour on each paycheck – or more than $300 extra per month to help feed his family and have extra funds stored away in the event of an illness or other obstacle. While he said that may not seem like much to some, he said it means everything to the workers. “It’s good to have $2 more on the table, just in case something does happen,” Garland said. “They can rely on that to support them in everything that comes with it.” Rome said the overarching goal of the employee demonstrations, which have been held at other Kroger locations in the Houston area, are simple. “Employees want the company to listen to them,” she said, “and do what’s right for them.”

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate

The Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 2 will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on September 23, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via teleconference (866) 899-4679, Access Code: 348-335-733. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners.

The Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No. 2 – Defined Area No. 1 will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on September 23, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via teleconference (866) 899-4679, Access Code: 348-335-733. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners.

FOR: President: Linda Walker Secretary: Hector Acevedo AGAINST: None PRESENT AND NOT VOTING: None ABSENT: None

Vice President: Julius Court Assistant Secretary: John Rose

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total Tax rate (Per $100 Value)

Last Year

This Year

0.212500 Adopted

0.212500 Proposed

Difference in rates per $100 of value

0.000000

Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-)

FOR: President: Linda Walker Secretary: Hector Acevedo AGAINST: None PRESENT AND NOT VOTING: None ABSENT: None

Vice President: Julius Court Assistant Secretary: John Rose

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total Tax rate (Per $100 Value)

Last Year

This Year

0.515000 Adopted

0.515000 Proposed

Difference in rates per $100 of value

0.00%

0.000000

Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-)

0.00%

Average residence homestead appraised value

$191,758

$203,175

Average residence homestead appraised value

General homestead exemptions available (excluding 65 years of age or older or disabled person’s exemptions)

Average residence homestead taxable value

$191,758

$203,175

Average residence homestead taxable value

Tax on average residence homestead

$407.49

$431.75

Tax on average residence homestead

$0.00

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-)

$24.26

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-)

$0.00

and percentage of increase (+/-)

5.95%

and percentage of increase (+/-)

0.00%

NOTICE OF VOTE ON TAX RATE

If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, an election must be held to determine whether to approve the operation and maintenance tax rate under Section 49.23601, Water Code.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval

tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

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See us online www.FortBendStar.com

★ AUDIT FROM PAGE 1 ings. Jones said the alleged illegal activity occurred from October 2018 through February 2019, and that the DA’s office is investigating it as a potential federal crime. Wesley Wittig, a spokesperson for the DA’s office, said it “does not confirm what they are or are not investigating until such time as criminal charges are filed.” Before the Sept. 8 council meeting, the city hired accounting firm BDO USA to conduct an independent control audit to search for any

★ CHOIR FROM PAGE 1 we’re able to do this,” Adams said. “It’s going well, and they sound great. They feel like they have a sense of purpose again.” The boys keep their masks on for the entire duration of the rehearsal, maintain 6 feet of distance between each other, and leave the room to get some fresh air and allow the room’s air to recirculate every 30 minutes. Their enthusiasm was palpable. “They were just champing at the bit,” Adams said. “‘When are we going to come back? Are we going to sing when school starts?’” Added 13-year-old tour choir member Gavin Leslie: “There have been some struggles with

Wednesday, September 16, 2020 • PAGE

further potential misuse. “I just want to make sure we move the dollars over and fix it because we need to be in compliance with federal funds,” Jones said. The announcement was not entirely well-received as council members Jeffrey Boney, Anthony Maroulis and Floyd Emery all expressed apprehension. Boney said he was blindsided by the revelation, and that no city council member had viewed the documentation that Jones said he sent to the district attorney’s office. “I’m just baffled by why council as a whole has not

seen the alleged documentation,” Boney said. “It’s not something that we should be in the dark about, especially if it’s about alleged illegal activity. I need to know what’s going on.” Maroulis, meanwhile, questioned the timing and purpose behind Jones’ revealing of the investigation. “I find it interesting that this is the first find in an internal audit – it sure appears that somebody tipped you to this direction … and that this is a target,” Maroulis said. “We’ll see what the outcome is. I appreciate you wanting to make the money right, but it just

doesn’t feel right.” Jones responded by saying, “If somebody tipped me off, I would tell you. This was just a matter of us having a preliminary view, and it came our way.” Once BDO’s audit is complete, which Jones expects to be done in October, he said the firm will update city council on the results and determine how they would like to proceed. If council would like, Jones said, a motion can be taken to conduct a forensic audit – though he said that would cost the city at least $50,000 to undertake. “If you want to go deeper, I

can,” he said. “We can quickly pivot and augment their work if you guys would like.” Amidst the concerns expressed by Boney, Emery and Maroulis, council member Vashaundra Edwards brought up one of her own related to their objections. “I find it concerning that the only concern I’m hearing is why it was the first thing that’s being brought up. It’s concerning because we’re not concerned about actual mismanagement of funds, but with why it’s being brought up,” she said. “Let’s continue to be focused on who we’re serving, and that’s the people

of this community. … Let’s allow (BDO) to do their job.” Boney responded by saying his concern was not strictly about the topic’s discussion, but having been denied access to what he called “key information.” “I’m concerned about doing my job, and that’s representing the people. I can’t do that if I’m left in the dark,” Boney said. “This is not about my confidence in the city manager. It’s about the fact that I have not seen key information provided to the district attorney relevant to the city of Missouri City. It’s very disturbing to me.”

the mask. “You don’t hear other people as much.” Adams said he has adhered to the guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and followed the scientific research of the virus closely. He also maintains contact with several European choirs, and sought to replicate their successful return to practicing. Last year, Adams had nearly 100 boys enrolled across all levels of the organization. Because of both the normal phasing out of boys whose voices have matured and the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of participants this year has shrunk to about half of that figure. “Some parents are a little reticent,” Adams said. “They’ve said maybe they’d like to join

after Christmas, with all this talk of a vaccination coming up.” Due to local regulations limiting the size of gatherings, performances will be limited during the holiday season, one of the choir’s busiest seasons. But Adams is optimistic that the choir will soon be able to perform safely. Tiana Mortimer, the executive director of the choir, said the boys themselves are so used to performing at a high level that they may not even realize how much they are capable of, singing songs in Aramaic and tackling challenging material like John Adams’ “On the Transmigration of Souls.” “The work was so hard that the Houston Symphony Chorus was having problems with it,” Mortimer said. “And then our

boys come into the rehearsal and nail it. And these professional adults were in awe that these boys could handle such a difficult work. … They never cease to surprise me, they don’t realize how awesome they are.” Several boys said the choir has become an integral part of their life. Tony Fata, 14, joined the training choir as an 8-year-old and was promoted to the tour choir at 10. “I’ve made so many good friends,” Fata said. “It’s nuts how much this choir has changed my life, in a good way.” Tony’s younger brother, Sammy, is also in the tour choir. Landon Bynum, 12, an alumnus of the “Music Magic” program for 6 and 7-year-old boys, said one of the highlights of his tour choir tenure was a

trip to Michigan’s Mackinac Island. David Mendoza, also 12, said he joined two-and-a-half years ago and has gotten a sense of purpose and direction from the choir. He also draws inspiration from Adams as well as his fellow singers, who have supported each other. “Even though we’re spaced far apart and we have masks on, I think it’s brought us close together emotionally and mentally,” Mendoza said. “We have to go through these struggles together, there’s not really a way for us to go through it by ourselves. We just have to be together, even if we’re 6 feet apart.” Adams has encouraged his students to continue in their resolve and determination to better themselves and brighten

their days with the shared experience of making music. During a recent rehearsal, they somberly acknowledged the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001, and at another point, indulged Adams playfully puppeteering a stuffed animal pink zebra to review their performance, a tongue-in-cheek reference to Pinkzebra, the choral music producer and composer. “The Hater” features a triumphant moment of epiphany for the main character, with the choir providing the musical backdrop for the film’s climax. “Nothing is good all the time, and nothing is bad all the time,” Adams said. “The ‘Ode to Joy’ is hopeful and uplifting and expectational. It’s a metaphor for life.”

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Stafford siblings attend virtual STEM camp at Rice By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Advocates of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) have long felt that the practical skills fostered by the interdisciplinary approach will help prepare students for higher education and careers in a highly volatile and malleable economy. The Tapia Center at Rice University, named for Dr. Richard A. Tapia, a mathematician and professor, has been focused on providing opportunities for underrepresented minorities to excel in STEM fields. This year 200 students, including 11 Fort Bend ISD students, two Stafford MSD students and one Lamar Consolidated ISD student, participated in the virtual camp. A donation from ExxonMobil was used to fund the FBISD students’ tuition, and the remainder of the fees were paid either through grants or funds from participating school districts or out-ofpocket by the parents or families of the students. Jaylen Kennedy, a junior, and his brother Julius Kennedy, a sophomore, both attended the camp and are students at Stafford High School. “I’d never done virtual learning before,” Jaylen said. “So (after the camp) it was easy for me going into this (school) year, while

other people were kind of struggling. I was already used to working online and talking to people online, and I wasn’t really used to that before (the camp).” The five-day camp spanned two hours per day and was segmented into groups of eight students and two instructors in Zoom breakout rooms. In lieu of staying on-campus in Rice University dormitories, as they would have prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, students interacted online with current Rice students and alumni and also received a virtual tour of a university laboratory. Dr. Paul Hand, director of curriculum for the Tapia Camp, said several K-12 educators from around the state have attended professional development workshops designed to help them engage and challenge their students to continue learning in handson and interactive ways. “Even though the students didn’t have to be there, they continued showing up,” Hand said. “About 90 percent of the students that entered the program stayed throughout the whole week. We trained our instructors in good pedagogy, but also how to bring good pedagogy online and that was definitely a significant challenge over the summer.” Hand said there is no

substitute for the in-person experience of being on campus, which can factor heavily in a student’s decision whether or not to attend a college. In some cases, the camp is the first time that a student will set foot on a college campus. One of Jaylen’s key takeaways from the camp was learning how to be resourceful and creative. With a basic set of supplies, like some copper banding strips, tinfoil, screws and bandages, they made a heatsink, which is often found in personal computers. Heatsinks work to regulate the temperature Stafford High School students Jaylen Kennedy, left, and Julius of the devices by dissipat- Kennedy work on their heatsink project during a Tapia Center ing heat into a liquid form virtual STEM camp held by Rice University. (Contributed photo) and cooling it. “You can make some- life, I wanted to do athlet- an XBox. Ever since then, I thing out of nothing,” ics, and if that didn’t work always knew what I wantout, I was going to be a ed to do. I already knew Jaylen said. The Kennedy boys chef. So this was really what I wanted to do when I got my first video game. were pleased with their something new for me. “I can use some of the I’ve been doing stuff on instructor and how she encouraged their intellectual stuff we learned in the YouTube, and also learning camp in school. Because of how to draw more. Watchcuriosity. “She was patient with the pandemic, we’re having people animate things us, and she liked when we ing to learn from home. So — that’s what I want to do.” Julius is a football player asked questions,” Jaylen it was kind of like practice for me, talking to people for the Spartans, but decidsaid. Even if students aren’t online, talking to the teach- ed due to the coronavirus he would take the season necessarily planning to be ers.” Jaylen said he wants off and pursue basketball STEM majors, Hand said the program is beneficial to be a concept artist, to instead. After taking a culiin providing a foundation make art or animations for nary class, he decided he of communication, critical video games. “Here it’s kind of hard wanted to explore the posthinking and using logic and empiricism to solve with the technology that I sibility of becoming a chef. have, so I learned to work He likes to make breakfast, problems. “Going into this, I didn’t with what I’ve got,” Jaylen and said his favorite dish at know what I was going to said. “It all started when I the moment is scrambled do,” Julius said. “For my got my first game system, eggs.

The Kennedy brothers both said they’d recommend the camp to other high school students. Rice will continue to offer STEM programs throughout the school year and next summer, Hand said. The camp has included students from all over the United States and Texas, as well as from countries such as Colombia, China, Japan, Abu Dhabi and the United Kingdom. “We really try to reach out to many, many underserved people in the state of Texas,” Hand said. “We really want to make sure they can go into STEM fields and have as few barriers as possible along the way.” Jaylen emphasized the importance of concentration on the task at hand in virtual learning. “It’s pretty easy, you’ve just got to focus,” Jaylen said. “You’ll have a good time. At first, I thought it was going to be boring. But the more we got into it, the better it got, and the more fun I started to have. I would just tell them to be patient.” Julius said he was enriched by the Tapia Camp’s curriculum. “I think that they should do it, because the information that they’re going to be given is very useful,” Julius said. “The experience was amazing.”

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Hightower alumna earns cybersecurity scholarship By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fresno resident and Hightower High School alumna Maria Bolaños has a bit of a chip on her shoulder. And she’s motivated to use her talents to give back to her community. The sophomore at the University of Houston isn’t shy about her career plans, and she has the resume to back it all up. An aspiring information security specialist, Bolaños was one of four students from around the country awarded a $4,000 Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship from ESET, a cybersecurity firm based in Slovakia. “Growing up, my family members never imagined that I would ever be interested in tech or even consider obtaining a career in it,” Bolaños said in a statement. “However, cybersecurity is a passion of mine, and every single day of my life, I have my personal and professional goals in the back of my mind. This scholarship with ESET pushes me closer to the future I imagine for myself. No one expected me, as a Latina who comes from a low-income background, to thrive in any field, especially in a field like cybersecurity, and I will do everything in my power to prove to myself that I belong here.” She was born in San Antonio and bounced around to seven different elementary schools. After moving from Texas to Florida and back, her family finally settled in Fresno. In July, she was named the Director of Educational Programs for the Black Cybersecurity Association, a Washington-based group which describes itself as a “welcoming and inclusive non-profit organization focused on building community, mentorship, and job opportunities for underrepresented (people of

color) in the cybersecurity space.” “I was never a technical person. I was very shy,” Bolaños said during a Zoom interview Friday. “I’ve changed a lot. I know there aren’t a lot of women, especially not a lot of Latino women in cybersecurity, and I want to bridge that gap.” The group hopes to serve underrepresented people everywhere through virtual lessons. Earlier this year, Bolaños completed a virtual pre-MBA program at Harvard Business School and is a volunteer data analyst within the Harris County Department of Education. At UH, Bolaños is majoring in Management Information Systems and Supply Chain Management. She has done internships with AT&T and HP, and participated in a “Latin American vs. COVID-19” Hackathon conducted by MIT. She said she hopes to one day collaborate with her mentor, Alma Maria Rinasz, an Austin-based cybersecurity expert and communications specialist for TechMex, a network of Mexican professionals, entrepreneurs and scientists who live in Austin. Bolaños said she was excited to connect with someone her age in the field of information technology and cybersecurity in Jessica Lam, a fellow scholarship winner from the University of California-San Diego. “To be able to connect with all of these cybersecurity professionals is amazing,” Bolaños said. “I’m really grateful to have gotten the scholarship, and I hope to mentor future cybersecurity professionals. When you think of cybersecurity, you think of the black hoodies and the hackers. I want to change that misconception. Women can be in cybersecurity, even though it’s a predominantly male-driven field, and I’m hoping to change that even a little bit.”

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Review: Jupiter Pizza and Waﬄes an intergalactic delight By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Have Robert White and Victor Litwinenko, the visionaries behind a development anchored by four restaurants in the heart of Sugar Land’s Town Square at First Colony Mall, figured out how to bottle lightning? Maybe not — but with Jupiter Pizza and Waffles, they have managed the balancing act of being simultaneously family-friendly and a hipster’s paradise. The patio is lined with tables featuring the kind of art that once lined old crates of fruit, beer and wine. Inside you’ll find a modernist twist on an old saloon-style wooden interior. You might, as I did, meet the gaze of a metallic chicken perched atop a booth on the way to your seat. Jupiter’s menu is a tabloid headline writer’s dream, and carries itself with a sense of humor that aspiring standup comedians missing out on open mic night are sure to appreciate. There are puns, like “meat-eors” (Italian-style beef and pork meatballs topped with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, $10) and “vegegg-tarian” (an omelette with mozzarella, mushrooms, spinach, and red bell peppers, $13). As a journalist, I would have been remiss if I didn’t try the “pull-itzer.” This delightful combination of house-made pulled pork, caramelized onions, applewood-smoked

bacon, muenster cheese and barbecue sauce atop a Belgian waffle was a bit of a gamble for someone like me, as much as I enjoy all of those things as standalone breakfast or brunch items. But Jupiter has gone beyond the generic chicken and waffles formula and turned this sweet and savory staple into an art form, and I hope they and others continue to embrace this trend. Brunch lovers, rejoice. You have a wide variety of sweet waffles to pick from, all $9 each: Brunchy (Nutella spread, sliced bananas, strawberries, whipped cream and powdered sugar) Dulce de Leche (caramel sauce, fresh fruits, nuts, whipped cream and powdered sugar), Oreo Speedwagon (Oreo crumbles, whipped cream, sliced strawberries, vanilla custard and chocolate sauce topped with powdered sugar), Kream Kong (sliced bananas, vanilla custard, pecans, whipped cream, melted chocolate and powdered sugar) and S’mores, Please (melted chocolate, graham crackers, toasted marshmallows and powdered sugar). Did I mention they also serve pizza at Jupiter? The Supernova (tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, bacon, pineapple, mushrooms, garlic, jalapenos, Sriracha and ranch sauces, topped with basil) is $16 for a regular-size pizza and $21 for a large. The Moon-Pie comes with Vietnamese-style barbecue pulled pork, mozzarella

The "pull-itzer" waﬄe with sweet potato fries is shown at Jupiter Pizza and Waﬄes. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

cheese, sunny side up egg, Sriracha and Japanese mayo topped with cilantro ($15 regular, $20 large). The Japaneiros, a nod to Jupiter’s neighboring sister sushi restaurant at Town Square, features tomato sauce, mozzarella, red bell peppers, sliced grilled chimichurri chicken, sweet plantains, cilantro and basil ($14 regular, $19 large). If you’re craving coffee, Jupiter offers house-made lattes and cappuccinos, all of which can be made hot or iced. “Cheap-O Hour” spans from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, during which you can grab a $5 glass of wine or a $3 local draft beer. You can order from a variety of local breweries like Saint Arnold, Lone Pint, Copperhead and Buffalo Bayou. Dogfish Head, Founders and Victory are also available. Jupiter Pizza and Waffles Address: 16135 City Walk, Sugar Land Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Entrée prices: $7-$20 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Healthy options: Vegetarian, gluten-free options available Star of the show: Pullitzer Follow Stefan Modrich on Twitter @StefanJModrich

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OurSERVICE friendly 281-232-2375 DOOR 281-499-1126 staff values you as a customer and provides www.prmcfortbend.org ADOPTIONS AND COUNSELING NETWORKINGwww.charltonsbodyrepair.com the VIP treatmentAlliance Doors to makeGarage your experience The Pregnancy Resource Medical Center is a Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th 832-768-1897 RAINBOW OF LOVE with us a profitable and efficient one. If nonprofit that helps women by offering free Fort Bend ChapterStreet, - BNI Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol. www.alliancegaragedoorstx.com pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, peer consultations, 281 438-6588 com, Fax: 281-499-1694, collision you’re not selling me your metal, we both Fort Bend Business Network International, theComplete Alliance Garage Doors has been locally www.rainbowoflove.org classesowned and parenting resources. We are looking repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert lose money! oldest networking chapter in the Fort Bend and operated for the past 25 yearsfor in the Sugar financial partners and church Rainbow of Love is a Social Services non-profit volunteers, computer color of matching. Custom painting & pin Chapter - BNI network, is a group like-minded Land/Missouri City/Richmond/Rosenberg/Katy that specializes in Adoption, Counseling liaisons to help us reach our community. You stripping. service.every 79 Years Strong and 3 business and owners who meetHonest to network PHARMACIESarea. We install, repair, and sell allcanmakes Parenting Classes. shareand the joy of helping hurt hearts and Proud! Country Thursday morning atGenerations 7 am at Sweetwater models of garage doors and openers and provide The agency was founded in Fort Bend in saving lives. We are located at 4411 Avenue N Ed’s Pharmacy Club.County Membership is limited to one professional free estimates on request. 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Dr. Jeff Hogan. DC 281-494-4769 Management and Charity programs focus on serviced more than 233,000 vehicles Brazos since Springs Direct Primary Care www.sugarlandregenerativemedicine.com kolbe.curtice@colliers.com local Fort Bend and Harris County communities. 1991. The BBB has rated Colony One Auto Center 281-208-7959 281-240-2225 The Oyster Creek Rotary Club Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk, its highest score, capturing an A+ rating. Angie’s 1-877-774-5688 16525 Fax Lexington Blvd. Suite 220 www.OysterCreekRotary.org Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. List has designated Colony One Auto Center its www.brazosspringsdpc.com Sugar Land, TX 77479 ADVERTISING This local club has been a member of Rotary Highway 59 & State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494highest rating as a “Super Service Provider,” also info@brazosspringsdpc.com International since 1979 and is a volunteer 3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment and garnering an A+ rating. Colony One4103 AutoSCenter INSURANCE AGENCIES Fort Bend Star Main Street, Suite #120 organization dedicated to serving the Missouri Tenant Representation, 30 years experience in has a complete state-of-the-artStafford, automotive 281-690-4200 TX 77477 City and Stafford communities. The club’s Fort Bend. Goosehead repair and maintenance facility. Your search is Physician www.fortbendstar.com Board Family using Insurance a membership mission is to promote world peace, eradicate 281-643-0996 finally over. Bring your vehicle tomode Rod Tate at to primary care services for an We have been delivering a free community for access polio and to support various organizations within Johnson Development Corp. 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, 77477. newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend affordable monthlywww.gooseheadinsurance.com/ fee. 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Larry Johnson Management Advisor, Andrew Haley understands 281-403-5900 (General) www.fortbendstar.com doctor, putting an emphasis on quality medical 77459. 5005 Riverway Dr., Suite 500 the valueand of safeguarding 281-403-5910 (Golf Shop) The Fort Bend Business Journal is a monthly care, patient experience transparency what in matters most to you and work health on yourcare behalf toHouston, bring youTX the77056` www.golfquailvalley.com magazine that focuses on the business pricing, DPC is proven to will reduce best insurance optionsmoney. based on your individual The Quail Valley Golf Course andcosts City and Centre community of Fort Bend County. ItOPTOMETRISTS is directsave patients and employers Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI needs.patients; You will be met with unmatched customer offers 36 holes of championship golf, full practice mailed to businesses throughout Fort Bend as Now enrolling individual children 5yrs 281-207-5037 integrityemployees and expediency.” facilities gorgeous event venues. youradults.service, well as all chamber of commerceElissa members in andAfter up, and Also enrolling on R. Wedemeyer O.D.,and FCOVD, F.A.A.O www.jenniferweaver.com round, stop by the Bluebonnet Grille a cold pricing program for small and large the Fort Bend County area. The Business Journal our for employer 281-499-2600 RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, drink and a satisfying meal. Thebusinesses. City CentreVisit our website, call or email for features news stories about businesses, people, www.drwedemeyer.com Sugar Land, TX 77478. Residential sales and is perfect for your special event. We host golf JEWELERS and events of importance to the local more information. 6026business Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459. corporate relocation since 1979. ` tournaments, weddings, graduations, community. Comprehensive Vision Exams from infantsbirthdays, to Gold Connection Jewelers anniversaries,of fundraising galas and much The so Immunization Clinic seniors. Medical management Eye Infections • We Buy Gold VIDEO SERVICES more. All with beautiful views of award Beour wise, test and,281-344-9900 immunize selection eyeglass frames ALTERATIONS & TAILORINGand disease. Large www.goldconnection.net winning golf courses. For more information, 281-313-7468 office and contact lenses. Most medical and vision Star Digital in yourStudios • 281-690-4280 visit www.golfquailvalley.com. Quail Valley faxWe are a full-service jewelry store LIZ’S TAILOR and ALTERATIONS insurances accepted. 281-313-7470 www.starvideoproductions.com neighborhood. We offer diamonds, gold and Golf Course & City Centre, 2880 La Quinta Dr., 281-242-3193 www.houstonvaccines.com full done service silver jewelry and watches. RepairsA are on video production studio providing Missouri City, TX 77459. www.lizstailor.com houstonvaccines@gmail.com phases We of video production including profes profespremises. Custom design is ourall specialty. 3626 Highway 6 South 3727 Greenbriar Dr.our #403 SCRAP DEALER/METAL RECYCLING sional writing, duplicaOur videography, editing, DVD duplica (In the Luby’s/Big Lots Shopping Center) DIALYSIS Stafford, TX 77477 offer front door parking for your convenience. tion, distribution; also video deposition services hours M-F from 10:00-6:00 pm and again Sugar Land, TX 77478 CDC certified Yellow feverareprovider of domestic to the legal community. For video needed for a Dialysis Our Alterations Service for Ladies and Gentlemen Julius Metals • Stafford 281-499-6400 and travel vaccines, Flu vaccines, TB skin tests, TV commercial, website posting, employee train train281-568-9911 CONTINUES include: Full resizing of your dresswww.juliusmetals.com or prom to Drug testing and titer testing for adults and ing, promotional DVDs, special presentations, children for college, work, travel, immigration, 3018 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477 coverage of live events/trade shows, or corpo corpoJulius Metals has BEND COUNTY’S Thebeen FortFT. Bend Business Journal Hpre-employment February 2020 and post-accident testing. Open rate videos, give15 us a call. If you are interested for appts M-F and 2 Saturdays a month.You can LARGEST SCRAP DEALER serving Fort Bend in something you do not see on our website, let come to our site TB skin tests, Drug testing and us know and we’re ready to accommodate your and surrounding counties for the past 31 titer testing for adults and children for college, needs! years. As a proud and responsible member work, travel, immigration, pre-employment and of the Fort Bend, Texas business commupost-accident testing. Open for appts M-F and 2 nity, we accept aluminum, copper, brass, Saturdays a month.You can come to our site or we stainless steel, vehicle radiators, air condicome to you for mobile testing and administration tioning coils, lead and other scrap metal. We of vaccines for groups and churches.

TRACY WALKER,

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February 2020 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

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If you have a local business story that may be of interest feel free to email us at editor@FortBendStar.com We love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com

The Fort Bend Business Journal H February 2020

THE STAR

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, September 16, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

GARAGE SALE? Let the community know with an ad in the Star!

CONTACT JOHN SAZMA FOR DETAILS 281-690-4206 • JSAZMA@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend ISD's Charles Dupre, left, and Stafford MSD's Robert Bostic, second from right, are among the superintendents who will take part in the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce's 2020 State of Schools. The address is scheduled for Oct. 14. (Contributed photo)

Fort Bend chamber to host State of Schools Oct. 14 By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

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As area school districts

return to school virtually, its leaders will gather next month to discuss their plans moving forward during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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COMMUNITY

CALENDAR

tricts. Both Stafford MSD and Fort Bend ISD have been conducting online learning since school began last month. Fort Bend ISD will have teachers return to campuses Sept. 23, according to a report from the Houston Chronicle, while students will return to campus Sept. 28. The report said students will return to in-person learning under a phased-in approach. Meanwhile, Stafford MSD was scheduled to host a virtual town hall meeting to discuss the district's plan for returning to the classroom. Follow us on social media @FortBendStar

FIND THE STAR

2020

READERS’ CHOICE

Marbles, a 4-year-old cat, has not been impressed with 2020, but she is so grateful to be at the Houston Humane Society.

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host the 13th Annual State of the Schools event on Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464 in Richmond. If public health conditions do not improve, the chamber said in a news release that the event would be held virtually. The annual address brings together superintendent Robert Bostic from Stafford MSD, Fort Bend ISD superintendent Charles Dupre and Lamar Consolidated ISD superintendent Thomas Randle to present their plans for the future of over 110,000 students they serve in their respective dis-

ONLINE FORTBENDSTAR.COM

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. OCTOBER 8 FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS ZOOM MEETING Fort Bend-Harris Retired Educators are Zooming! Monthly virtual meetings will be held by Ft. Bend Harris-Retired Educators for the remaining of 2020. Only paid members will be invited by email and sent a password for each of the upcoming monthly meetings. If you have not yet joined, please send your check for $45 made out to FBHRE to Cathy Duvall, Treasurer. $35 is sent to Austin for state dues and $10 goes to our local unit. Cathy Duvall, 7131 Trailbrook Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77479; email cmduvall@ aol.com. The October 8th, Thursday, meeting will begin at 10 a.m. Looking forward to SEEING everyone. ONGOING 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 9:45 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195 EXCHANGE EXCHANGE, AmericaÕ s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new

Honored to be your choice for life insurance. LISA N SIMS, AGENT Monday - Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 10 - 2 After hours by appointment

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@reichekﬁnancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!

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 281413-2484.

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 281-5433524 or liviaerich@yahoo.com for additional information.

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, email maw0500@gmail. com.

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 281499-3345. BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT Volunteers are needed to be a role model, mentor and friend to children with exceptional needs in the community. Training, mileage reimbursement, tax-free monthly stipend if eligible. Call today to help change the world, one child at a time in Rosenberg. For more information, call 281-344-3515.

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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 713376-7295. ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Caregivers of patients with AlzheimerÕ s disease or other related dementias are invited to attend the first Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. JohnÕ s United Methodist Church, 400 Jackson St. in Richmond, across from the historic Fort Bend County Courthouse. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 713-314-1313 or 1-800272-3900.

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