Richmond resident leads food drive - Page 7
First Watch in Sugar Land knows how to take away the blues of a slow morning with a fresh take on breakfast. Read our review in today's edition on Page 8. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)
WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 18, 2020
Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 13
Visit www.FortBendStar.com
Dupre’s resignation plan draws mixed reaction By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
We Cook! You Eat! Family Holiday Package Call for Details 9920 Hwy 90A Suite #D-120 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-532-7816
Fort Bend ISD superintendent Charles Dupre announced Monday he plans to resign by December 2021, prompting an outpouring of reactions from parents, teachers and community members across the district. Many parents expressed concerns on Facebook about the timing of the announcement, which comes amid the
Rustika
Rustika Rustika Café & Bakery
Café & Café Bakery & Bakery NOWOPEN NOWOPEN Next to Corelli’s Italian NOWOPEN GO ONLINE Next to Corelli’s Italian
Dupre
“Like or hate Dupre — our board will have a
very difficult time finding a qualified candidate to fill his shoes during a pandemic while three new board members are still learning to be board members,” Tammy Marino wrote Monday in a Facebook post. “This is actually not good news. The timing is terrible and the results could be really catastrophic for this district as we navigate a pandemic and state budget woes and a very new board on top of massive teacher resignations.”
The board convened Monday night in a special session, where the new members were sworn in and the outgoing members delivered farewells. Dupre said he intended to provide the new board with the opportunity to determine its new vision for the district and to begin a search for a new superintendent. “During the past two
SEE REACTION PAGE 6
Come together
CUSTOM CAKES + PASTRIES + COOKIES + COFFEE + SOUPS + SANDWICHES
& PLACE YOUR Next to Corelli’s Italian HOLIDAY ORDER CUSTOM CAKES + PASTRIES + COOKIES + COFFEE + SOUPS + SANDWICHES TODAY! CUSTOM CAKES + PASTRIES + COOKIES + COFFEE + SOUPS + SANDWICHES
ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and 17 days after the FBISD Board of Trustees voted 6-0 to extend Dupre’s contract through 2024. Some parents viewed the Nov. 3 election — which resulted in the replacement of board president Jason Burdine and incumbents Kristin Tassin and Allison Drew with Angie Hanan, Shirley Rose-Gilliam and Denetta Williams, respectively — as a repudiation of Dupre.
RUSTIKACAFE.COM • 281-494-4230 3227 HWY.6 SUGAR LAND, TX 77478
We Are Building Solutions
NOW HIRING Assemblers, Operators, and Material Handlers
for our East Bernard facility located at 16856 Cabinet Road, East Bernard, Texas 77435. If interested email lperaza@leedo.com
Report: Astros enlist Skeeters to be affiliate By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Fort Bend County residents may soon be able to see the Houston Astros’ stars of tomorrow at Constellation Field. According to a Monday night tweet from Mark Berman of KRIV Fox 26 News, the Astros have entered into an agreement with the Sugar Land Skeeters to make the Skeeters the organization’s top minor league affiliate beginning next season. The Astros would also have an ownership stake in the Skeeters, according to Berman. When reached by phone Monday night, Skeeters team president Christopher Hill declined to comment. Sugar Land has played in the independent Atlantic League since the team’s inception in 2012, winning league titles in 2016 and 2018. The Skeeters also reached the championship series in 2014 and 2019. If the deal is completed as reported, the Skeeters would replace the Round Rock Express as the Astros’ Triple-A affiliate. The Astros’ other affiliates are the Corpus Christi Hooks (Double-A), Fayetteville Woodpeckers (Class-A Advanced), Quad Cities River Bandits (Class A), Tri-City ValleyCats and Gulf Coast League Astros. The reported move comes amidst a changing landscape in minor league baseball, with MLB-affiliated leagues cancelling their 2020 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic and many MLB teams expected to streamline their farm systems heading into the 2021 season. The Skeeters broke from the Atlantic League this year to host their own four-team league at Constellation Field.
The Sugar Land Skeeters will reportedly be the Houston Astros' new Triple-A affiliate. (Photo from Facebook)
Faith leaders participate in a service during a past Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, organized by the Fort Bend Interfaith Council. This year's service will be hosted virtually at 7 p.m. on Nov. 23 via Facebook Live and YouTube due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Contributed photo)
Interfaith Thanksgiving Service to be held virtually By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Bend County residents had numerous ways to showcase their cultural and spiritual diversity through festivals and commemorations of holidays and other significant events. Now, the Fort Bend Interfaith Council (FBIC) is rallying to flex its muscles of religious heterogeneity virtually as it prepares for its sixth annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, to be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 23 via Facebook Live and YouTube. A unique feature of this
year’s event will be the opportunity for each of the 13 participating faith communities to showcase their own worship spaces as many of their musical elements or spoken readings were prerecorded due to the lack of an in-person audience for this years’ service. “There’s always something certainly very powerful about having so many voices and so many faces united in worship and in Thanksgiving,” said Will Starkweather, the chairman of the FBIC. “As folks tune into this event, they get to be in everyone’s place of worship. And I’m thinking that’s going to be quite a lovely thing this
year.” Starkweather is also the senior pastor at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church in Sugar Land. The Baha’i, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh faiths and various denominations within them will be represented. There are more than 40 members of the interfaith community in Fort Bend County. On Nov. 13, County Judge KP George issued a proclamation to make Nov. 23 an official “Fort Bend County Day of Prayer.” “In Fort Bend County, because we have such a diverse area, we have the opportunity to have every single one of these differ-
ent religions represented,” said Valerie Tolman, a spokesperson for FBIC representing the First Unitarian Universalist Church. “We’re really lucky that way.” Irfan Ali is the honorary secretary for the Ismaili Council for the Southwestern U.S. and an FBIC board member representing Ismali Muslims. He is not alone on the council in seeing the socially-distanced broadcast this year as not merely a necessity, but an opportunity to grow and expand the organization’s mission of religious pluralism and tolerance. “A lot is going to be different, but the goal remains
the same,” Ali said of the virtual service. “Hopefully we can actually leverage the platforms of social media as well as the online platforms to bring a much wider audience to this than in the past. Because I think it is important.” Among the messages FBIC seeks to promote are the shared values and basic tenets that make up the principles of the various members of the diverse coalition of faiths, like caring for neighbors and looking out for the most vulnerable in society. “There are some common shared values that
SEE SERVICE PAGE 6
Sienna turns back clock with drive-in movie By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
As the sun began to dip behind the woods along the Brazos River, cars lined up in droves at Heritage Park in the Sienna neighborhood of Missouri City for the Nov. 6 showing of “Smallfoot.” Dozens of cars, most of them filled with families, packed the park for the 2018 animated children’s movie about a the adventures of a friendly Yeti — a mythical Himalayan creature similar to the western folktale of
the Abominable Snowman — named Migo who discovers a British filmmaker who crash-landed a plane in the Himalayan mountains. Sienna resident Jerry Vallejo brought his wife and two young daughters to see the movie that featured a star-studded cast of Channing Tatum, Zendaya, Chicago recording artist Common and NBA superstar LeB- People arrive and wait in their cars during a drive-in movie showing of “Smallfoot” on Nov. 6 at Heritage ron James. Park in the Sienna neighborhood of Missouri City. (Photos by Stefan Modrich) “This is my first experience (going to a drive-in) this very much. It’s a ting back to normal.” pandemic for quite a with my kids, and also for good idea to hang around While there may not while, even as Pfizer anme and my wife,” Vallejo and do some different be a sense of normalsaid. “So we’re enjoying stuff with the family, get- cy known prior to the
SEE MOVIE PAGE 6
THE STAR
PAGE 2 • Wednesday, November 18, 2020
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Merry Christmas from all of us at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Mention this ad and receive
$50 off of $250 or more
can not be combined with any other offers or special pricing RMPL 13459 • www.BenFranklinPlumberHouston.com
281-342-3086
Hearing noises in the attic? it’s probably not Santa
An Army veteran, left, and Air Force veteran, right, salute during a Veterans Day ceremony held by the American Legion Post 294 on Nov. 11 at the Landon Ridge Sugar Land Assisted Living and Memory Care facility. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)
Legion post visits veterans By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
1118 E Hwy 90A, Richmond, TX www.integrated-pest.com
Want the BEST DEAL for your Cable and Internet?
No Deposit! Call Us Today for a Quick Quote!
844-560-9986
Ruben Amaya turned 17 years old in 1964 and changed the course of his life with one decision. "I gave myself a birthday present," Amaya said. "I dropped out of high school and I joined the Marine Corps." From boot camp in San Diego to Vietnam, where he transferred in August 1965 and completed his first tour overseas, to Beaufort, South Carolina and back to Vietnam again, the Yoakum, Texas native stood outside the Landon Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care facility in Sugar Land and reflected on a decorated career of service. On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, Amaya was one of several members of the Missouri City-based American Legion Post 294 who traveled to Landon Ridge for the first time to honor its 20 residents who were present for a ceremony to commemorate their uniformed service. "While many veterans are humble, there is no such thing as insignificant military service," Post 294 adjutant Bob Maiellaro said in his remarks. "They understand that it isn't just
the sacrifice and the service that are important, but the willingness to go to the fullest extent in the defense of this nation that sets veterans apart. There are many tangible ways that we can acknowledge their sacrifice, but the easiest is to simply say, 'We thank you for what you have done for our country,' and that is exactly what we are here to do today. As a commander in Post 294, Amaya is a frequent presence at events like this one as well as funerals where he accompanies the honor guard, and funerals where the traditional "taps" is played and the American flag is presented by the color guard. "We're certainly pleased that these people (at Landon Ridge) asked us, because we didn't have anything else planned," Amaya said. "We were really excited to come and do this for these people, because they're bound here and can't go anywhere. It was an honor to do this presentation." As a Marine occupational specialist, Amaya worked as an air crew member on helicopters and later in air intelligence, photographing and scouting potential landing zones and briefing pilots to determine if it was safe to fully land an aircraft or to send in a reconnais-
Expanding our team of leaders in
PRIMARY CARE Houston Methodist Welcomes Dr. Ali Sawal The physicians at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at Brooks Street have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating the following: • Acute and chronic care
• Men’s health
• Complete physicals
• Minor procedures
• Children’s health
• Preventive care
• Health screenings
• Women’s health
• High blood pressure
WELCOMING Ali Sawal, DO Family Medicine
Our90physicians are available to safely see patients in person or virtually, as needed. BROOKS ST.
ALT
FIRS
T C OLONY BLVD .
SUGAR LAND
HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP AT BROOKS STREET
59
6
59
HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL
1201 Brooks St. Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 houstonmethodist.org/pcg/brooks-street 281.930.6639
Asisat Ope, MD Family Medicine
sance team. He received two air medals for his bravery in combat, and was also briefly a door gunner on a helicopter. On one occasion, Amaya said his helicopter took on gunfire but neither he nor his crew members were injured. After ending his career with the Marines in 1968, he settled in Houston and found his way to Missouri City six years later, where he has been ever since. He still has a place out in Yoakum, which is 120 miles southwest of Houston off of Highway 59, a "man cave" where he would normally gather with friends to do trail riding on horses if it weren't for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has made it harder to celebrate veterans, particularly aging ones who are at higher risk of contracting the coronavirus. And even without that added threat, they are vanishing rapidly, dying of natural causes as time marches on. According to Pew Research, 300,000 of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II are alive in 2020. The American War Library estimates 610,000 Vietnam veterans are still alive, and more than 2.5 million Korean War veterans are still alive, according to the National Veterans Foundation.
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 18, 2020 • PAGE
3
Fort Bend may be turning purple, but it’s really red, white and blue We celebrate American veterans like former Sugar Land City Council member Don Smithers, who retired as a Texas Air National Guard State Command Chief, and Patrick A. Houck, also a Sugar Lander and a retired Master Sergeant of the United States Marine Corps. Both are honorably discharged x-men, that is ex-military men, who have shared experiences that convey a message of how they were honored to serve on behalf of the nation. For the rest of us, our Nov. 11 recognition of the veterans of U.S. uniformed services is about a moment that takes note of the willingness of so many among us to protect the values of our country by committing their lives for our defense. There were local programs throughout Fort Bend County last week for Veterans Day, including the one at the Sugar Creek Country Club. The Sugar Land Rotary Club’s 24th annual program highlighted Smithers, who served in the military for 27 years and started in active-duty service with the U.S. Air Force. Houck, the other special guest, underwent continuous service in the Marines for 21 years, including a deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and deployment to the Kumar province in Afghanistan. The patriotic observance was timely, especially at a point when red (Republican) and blue (Democrat) seem to be
Elsa Maxey
the loud colors of today’s political climate. White, the other essential color of the American palette, may be about tempering the two. It is the color that depicts faith, giving rise to the belief that our society will be healthy both literally and figuratively. This is important for our local communities so that they may continue to advance the ideals of democracy, rights, liberty, opportunity and equality. The bicolor political divide has become more evident in Fort Bend during the past 10 years or maybe even less. Many resident long-timers have been part of the enclave that has been historically represented by a conservative, the red, ideology. And the local trends, most notably seen with the outcome of recent partisan races, show another set of ideas that have taken root. So we see Fort Bend’s red geography turning purple, the blend of red and blue. This new color representing both sides is not necessarily a bad thing, but we need a good mix – one side should not win with the other suffering. Patriotic observances like Veterans Day help us
From left to right, Patrick A. Houck, Dr. Steve Harris, Sugar Land Rotary Club president Todd Breton and former Sugar Land City Council member Don Smithers pose for a photo after Harris presented proclamations on behalf of Missouri City and Sugar Land to commemorate Veterans Day during the Sugar Land Rotary Club’s 24th annual event last week at Sugar Creek Country Club. Houck, a retired Master Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, and Smithers, a retired Texas Air National Guard State Commander in Chief, were featured as part of the organization's inperson and Zoom program. (Contributed photo) from
on active duty during the Korean War, in the Air Guard during the Vietnam War and later retired at the start of the Gulf War. He said it as he implied a collective American identity with this involvement. Houck, who has been stationed in California, Hawaii, New Orleans and Japan, appreciates what he’s learned and said serving his country afforded him many opportunities. These two veterans conveyed that the military to them was a cohesive whole, like our own identity as Americans with distinctive traditions, cultures and languages. It’s what we share as Fort Benders in a place that provides for a livelihood, family, numerous amenities, security, and protects the rights of citizens as part of a red, white and blue country.
A Helping Hand
keep that in mind. All of us deserve representation, which is what the military does for us.
Ed’s Pharmacy
“I was considered a Cold War veteran because I was too young for Korea,” said Smithers, who was
3740 Cartwright Road (@ FM 1092)
(281) 499-4555
Managing Male-Pattern Hair Loss
Male-pattern hair loss or balding is reported to be responsible for ninety-five percent of hair loss in men. The loss of hair is due to changes in the male hormone (testosterone) and can also be caused by inherited traits from a person’s relatives. Hair follicles become more sensitive to the testosterone and shrink over time, resulting in little or no hair growth. One over-the-counter solution that is applied to the scalp for hair loss is Rogaine (minoxidil). It acts by opening up the blood vessels and increasing the blood flow in the scalp, which activates hair growth. It must be applied consistently or any new growth will reportedly be lost. A prescription drug taken by mouth called Propecia (finasteride) blocks the production of the male hormone responsible for hair loss. Common side effects of finasteride are dizziness and headache.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS The Financial Integrity Rating for Fort Bend Independent School District 6:00 P.M. on December 7, 2020 In the Board Room of the FBISD Administration Building 16431 Lexington Blvd. • Sugar Land
CALL TO PLACE HELP WANTED ADS
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss Fort Bend ISD’s rating on the Financial Integrity System Rating (FIRST)
281.690.4200
Public Encouraged to Attend
BUSINESS HONOR ROLL
09-21-16 - Ed’s Pharmacy - 2 x 4.5
The beginnings & Growth of many of Fort Bend County’s leading businesses
CONGRATULATIONS! YOUR BUSINESS WILL HAVE AN ANNIVERSARY IN 2021! Let all of Fort Bend County in on the celebration by placing your business name & the number of years you are celebrating in both publications. Featured in both the Fort Bend Star Newspaper and the Fort Bend Business Journal. Call your Marketing Consultant at
281-690-4206
Business FORT BEND
KATY
THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Publication: Wednesday December 30th
JOURNAL
Publication: December 2020
Deadline: Tuesday December 22th
Deadline: November 20th
LL O R NOR R O SES S E H IN US ING B OOUNR SS E LEAD N N TY’S O I C 42 US BEND SF SOMH B FORT S E OF 5 E 4 IGN TH O 45 S GROW U AND S 8 BTHE BEGINNIN 4 50 9
OLL
ORT
THE
RS YEA
4
1234
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your dress Drive •4567
RS YEA
1234
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford
Your dress Drive •4567 1234
50
RS YEA
50
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your ess Drive • 67
3713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE • ESTA
Ad
3713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE • ESTA
Ad
67 Addres 3-123-45 te.com 71 swebsi • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE TA ES •
43
1234
12
1234
3713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE • ESTA
Ad
Your Business Name
RS YEA
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your s Drive • dres 123-4567 te.com 713swebsi • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE • ESTA
Ad 1234
42
ARS
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your dress Drive •4567
1234 Address Drive • Stafford 77022 713-123-4567 1RS 4 www.businesswebsite.com YEA 1234
3713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines www.b D 1900 BLISHE • ESTA
Ad
42 • ESTABLISHED 1900 • RS YEA
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin tafford
me s Na
es 77022 Busin Stafford Your dress Drive •4567 1234
3713-12 ebsite.com sw usines 00 • www.b ED 19 ABLISH
Ad
ve ss Dri 3-4567 713-12 ebsite.com sw usines 00 • ED 19 BLISH • ESTA
3-45 713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines 1900 www.b ISHED BL TA • ES
dr 34 Ad
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your dress Drive •4567
1234
Addre
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your ess Drive • 67
RS YEA
RS YEA
me s Na ines 022 Bus ford 77 Your • Staf
RS YEA
ve ss Dri 3-4567 713-12 ebsite.com sw usines 00 • ED 19 BLISH • ESTA
Addre
Be part of the
www.b
35
RS YEA
me s Na ines Bus 77022 afford Your St • rive
39Your Business Name RS YEA
3713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines 1900 www.b ISHED BL TA • ES
67 ss D Addre 3-123-45 te.com 1234 71 si sweb usines • www.b 1900 ED BLISH TA ES •
me s Na ines 022 Bus ford 77 Your • Staf ve 67 ss Dri Addre 3-123-45 te.com 1234 71 si sweb usines .b w • w w 1900 ED SH BLI • ESTA
1234 Address Drive • Stafford 77022 713-123-4567 www.businesswebsite.com
71 ebsi inessw mwe.bus 00 • aw Nw ED 19 ess 77022 BLISH Busin Stafford • ESTA
Ad
www.b
38
me s Na ines 2 Bus r rd 7702 u fo o af Y ve • St RS 67 ss Dri YEA 1234 Addre 3-123-45 te.com
1234
ss D 3-4567 713-12 ebsite.com sw usines 00 • ED 19 BLISH • ESTA
Addre
RS YEA
40
Your dress Drive •4567
50
1234
YEARS
www.b
RS YEA
me s Na ines 2 Bus rd 7702 Your Staffo • ve ri
RS YEA
me s Na ines 2 Bus r rd 7702 u fo o af Y • St
3-45 713-12 ebsite.com sw • usines 1900 www.b ISHED BL TA • ES
Addr
YEARS44
44
45
1234
RS YEA
IN
BEG
e Nam 2 ess 7702 Busin Stafford Your s Drive •
RS YEA
UNT
D CO
BEN
SES
INES
BUS
F SO
TH O
ROW
ND G
SA NING
FF ME O
DING
EA Y’S L
20
• ESTABLISHED 1900 • RS YEA
e Nam
10
RS YEA
me s Na ines Bus 77022 afford Your St • rive 1234
ss D 3-4567 713-12 ebsite.com
Addre
celebration in BOTH publications or one of your choice.
THE STAR
PAGE 4 • Wednesday, November 18, 2020
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
@FtBendAthletics:
Marshall rolls in 11-5A clash; Stafford advances in playoffs By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Entering last week’s football game against the Willowridge Eagles, there may have been some questions as to whether someone could challenge the Marshall Buffalos’ recent supremacy in District 11-5A. The Buffalos silenced those questions with a resounding no. Marshall raced out to an early 21-point lead and never looked back in a 560 win last Thursday over Willowridge, sending the message that the road to the 11-5A title still runs through the Buffalos. Four different players scored rushing touchdowns for the Buffalos (7-0, 6-0 district), and both quarterbacks shined for Marshall. Roland Harvey accounted for 211 total yards and three touchdowns, while Ja’Koby Banks totaled 116 yards and two scores in relief. Chris Marshall led all
receivers with 141 yards and two touchdowns as Marshall rolled out 451 total yards. On defense, the Buffalos pitched their sixth shutout of the season. Laurence Tillman had a first-quarter fumble return for a touchdown to help the effort. Stafford rolls in bidistrict playoff win Back in the playoffs for the second consecutive season, the Stafford Spartans scored early and often as they ran over North Forest 63-6 last Saturday night. It was the first playoff win for Stafford (5-6) since 2016. The Spartans will play Tyler Chapel Hill (7-4) in the area round this Saturday. Quarterback Kaleb Roberts was Stafford’s star against North Forest. He totaled four touchdowns (two passing, two rushing) as the Spartans took a 21-0 lead after the first quarter and never relinquished it. Tailback Jamaal Wiley had his second consecutive multi-score rushing
Marshall's Javion Matthews breaks into the open field during an Oct. 24 game against Waltrip. The Buffalos downed Willowridge last week to take sole possession of first place in District 11-5A. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)
night and added a touchdown catch. Receiver Jordon Barrett caught his seventh touchdown of the season and has scored in four consecutive games. Other notable action In the area’s other Class 5A action, Hightower took down Rosenberg Terry 63-34 last Friday night to clinch a District 10-5A zone playoff spot. The Hurricanes (3-3, 2-2) scored the first 28 points
of the game and never let the Rangers back in it. Quarterback Ja’Kolby Longino had one of his best games of the season, throwing for 315 yards and four touchdowns. It was the second 300-yard game of the season for Longino, who did much of his damage early as the Hurricanes led 50-14 at halftime. His favorite targets were Latrell Neville and Kaleb Johnson, who combined to catch 14 passes for 175
Last Week's Scores Stafford 63, North Forest 6 Marshall 56, Willowridge 0 Hightower 63, Rosenberg Terry 34 Dulles 27, Austin 6 Kempner 20, Clements 14 George Ranch 37, Elkins 24
yards. Neville caught three of Longino’s four touchdown passes, and Brendan Eaglin ran for 86 yards. Elsewhere in District 20-6A, the Dulles Vikings emerged with a 27-6 win over the Austin Bulldogs last Thursday night at Mercer Stadium. The Vikings (2-4, 2-1) used a balanced offensive effort and stout defense to move into second place in the district and clinch a zone playoff spot. Junior running back Devin Graham ran for 111 yards and two scores. It was his fourth game with at least 100 yards, and his first multi-score contest. Ryan Alaniz caught four passes for 82 yards and his first touchdown of the season. Jerimiah Harrell also had three sacks for the Vikings, who didn’t allow the Bulldogs to find the scoreboard after the first quarter. Following is a rundown of last week’s scores and this week’s games involving area teams.
This Week’s Games Thursday Austin vs. Clements, 6 p.m. (Mercer Stadium) Willowridge at Sterling, 7 p.m. (Barnett Stadium) Friday Ridge Point vs. Travis, 7 p.m. (Hall Stadium) Saturday Hightower vs. Kempner, 1 p.m. (Hall Stadium) Dulles vs. Elkins, 6 p.m. (Mercer Stadium) Bush at George Ranch, 6 pm. (Traylor Stadium) Class 4A playoff: Stafford at Tyler Chapel Hill, 6 p.m. (Randall Reed Stadium)
Skeeters now selling drive- Sugar Land's ‘Sweet Cash’ through Thanksgiving meals program back for holidays By Landan Kuhlmann
Land business. Cards will be sent in the mail or may be picked up at Sugar Land City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North, according to the city. The city will also donate 500 gift cards worth $10,000 to local frontline workers at the conclusion of the program, according to a news release. “People want to help any way they can, and this program is a simple, effective and safe way to do so,” Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman said. For more information on the initiative, community members can visit allinforsltx.com/.
By Landan Kuhlmann
LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Fort Bend County residents wanting the Thanksgiving meal experience without the hassle of cooking it all can do so courtesy of the area’s minor league baseball team. The Sugar Land Skeeters announced Nov. 10 that the organization will host a Thanksgiving drivethrough meal pickup event from 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, which is the day before Thanksgiving, at Constellation Field. All meals must be ordered by noon Saturday, Nov. 21 to be available for pickup. Meals will cost $90 to serve four people, and $150 to serve eight people. Those ordering meals will drive around the warning track to pick
it up, and heating instructions will be provided. Included with each meal will be: • Carved turkey breast and smoked turkey kegs • Honey-glazed ham • Garlic mashed potatoes • Green bean casserole • Herbed cornbread stuffing • Dinner rolls with butter • Brown gravy • Pumpkin pie There will also be
apple walnut coleslaw and salad available for additional purchase for $25 each, while sweet potatoes, bourbon pecan chocolate pie and macaroni and cheese will be $35 each. Bottles of wine will be sold as well, with a four-pack for $30 or individual bottles starting at $16. For more information on the event or to order a meal, visit suga rla ndskeeters.com/ thanksgiving.
A popular local shopping exchange program is returning for the Christmas season. The City of Sugar Land announced last Wednesday that its “Sweet Cash” program, which has generated more than $160,000 in gift card purchases and distributed more than 2,600 gift cards, is back with a holiday twist to support businesses and frontline workers who have been impacted by COVID-19. As part of the “‘Tis the Season for Sweet Cash” program, shoppers can buy gift cards between
Sugar Land Town Square to host virtual ‘Meet Santa’ experience By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
BAPTIST CHURCH
HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994 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 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
$20 and $200 in value from any Sugar Land business through in-store purchases, drive-through or curbside pickup and enter the purchase receipt online at AllInForSLTX.com. In return, they will receive another gift card -- valued at the closest $20 increment equal to or lesser than the original purchase -- from another Sugar
Later this month, one of Fort Bend County’s bustling mixed-use hubs will allow the area’s children to virtually visit Santa for Christmas, making their wishes known even during the COVID-19 pandemic. On Nov. 27, the square will be home to the debut of Dallas-based Flight School Studios’ MAGI·SPHERE, a technology that will project Santa’s presence in 3-
D and in real time to guests, who can share their holiday wishes while maintaining social distance. Visitors to the community will be able to interact with Santa through a holographic snow globe housed in a giant wrapped gift, according to a news release. “This is truly a unique and remarkable way to interact with Santa, and I know families will remember it for years to come,” Flight School Studio Chief Creative Officer Brandon Oldenburg
Time to fix that hole in the wall...
A division of Home Hands Group LLC
713-686-4936
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
ItJustBroke.com
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
said in a news release. Reservations for Santa’s MAGI·SPHERE can be made onsite at Sugar Land Town Square beginning Nov. 27 or in advance at SantaSugarLand.com.
We can help with that!
Bonded & Insured
Scripture of the week
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” - 1 John 4:7
@ F O RT B E N D S TA R @ F T B E N D AT H L E T I C S
F O R T B E N D S TA R . C O M
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 18, 2020 • PAGE
5
Power station coming to Fort Bend town of Thompsons By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
WattBridge, a subsidiary of Missouri-based energy solutions provider ProEnergy, announced Nov. 10 it would be building a power station near the Braes Bayou. The facility will be built at the intersection of Lockwood Road and Smithers Lake Road in Thompsons, 15 miles south of Sugar Land. The project will include a 288-megawatt natural gas-fired power generation facility, powered by 6X LM6000 gas turbine
engines designed and built by ProEnergy. The aim of the new power station is to help provide electricity to the Texas grid during critical peak periods. “Our project will provide a critical energy resource to the region during peak demands in the summer and winter months and support continued commercial and residential growth in the area,” WattBridge CEO Mike Alvarado said in a news release. “Secondly, facilities like this enable the growth of renewable wind and solar generation in the electricity market and are a key feature to cost effective and reliable electricity to Fort Bend and
other Texas customers.” The Fort Bend County Commissioners Court unanimously approved an incentive package for the project. Jack Belt, executive vice president of the Fort Bend Economic Development Council, said it includes a 10-year tax abatement of 45 percent per year on the value of the plant improvements, equipment and machinery, or an average of about $4.14 million abated annually. He said the project is a capital investment of $92 million. Of those costs, $90.9 million has been allocated for the equipment and machinery and $1.1 million for small building improve-
C LASSIFIED
energy to our growing residential and commercial populations, and the significant capital investment provides an infusion of tax dollars to the county coffers.” The company plans to build infrastructure to generate 1.3 gigawatts of electricity in 2021. “We are excited to bring the Braes Bayou project to Fort Bend County and grateful for the support shown by Commissioner Morales, the Commissioners Court and the Fort Bend Economic Development Council,” said Lee Shuman, WattBridge’s chief financial officer.
ments to equipment or control rooms. Precinct 1 County Commissioner Vincent Morales said this important power infrastructure project supports the growing population in one of the fastest-growing counties in the U.S. “We are delighted to have WattBridge Energy as an integral component of the power network in our Fort Bend County,” Morales said in a statement. “Complimenting the solar power providers in Fort Bend, the Braes Bayou project will strengthen our capacity to offer efficient, clean, renewable
A DS
Morales
CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200
HELP WANTED
C LASSIFIED Reliable Handyman
with experience in plumbing, drywall/texture, painting, carpentry, door install/repairs, cabinet repairs, and other general handyman.
CLASSIFIED CALL US& OUTSIDE CLASS A ADS THAT GET RESULTSINSIDE DS A DRIVERS SALES PROFESSIONALS NEEDED AT 281-690-4200 CDL Dignity Memorial NEEDED Full-time | Best in class Professional Training UNLIMITED Income potential | Benefits
Benefits Include:
• Sign on bonus of $6,500
Our Associates Celebrate Lives. We Celebrate our Associates.
• $5,000 safety bonus • Home daily • Pay per mile/ load • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Ins, PTO • Must have Class A CDL with
Please call 713-371- 3516 or email
mickey@officeorioles.com
Call
Reynolds
Nationwide
1-888-648-3604
You can also visit our Website to fill out an application at
reynoldsnw.com
GOT NEWS?
SERVICES MATH/COMPUTER TUTOR Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics. Bill Stewart. BSEE 281-3411582.>+
Help Me Rhonda! Hair Designs
Tanker Endorsement
Are you ready for a life changing career opportunity? Interested candidates can submit resumes to marilyn.gonzales@dignitymemorial.com
Pressure Washing
House Painters Plus ction Satisfanteed Guara
Hair Stylist/ Colorist Rhonda Dickerson
14 yrs. exp.
“Where Quality Counts”
265-7134
TRANE ON SALE!
FORTBENDSTAR.COM
★★ XR 16 SYSTEM
Free Estimates
IRON FENCE REPAIR • IRON FENCE REPAIR
Driveway - Gates & Operators • Free Estimates
281-344-9212
• Great Prices • Rebates! • Financing • Warranties
SMALL JOBS WELCOMED
LIMITED TIME! CALL NOW!!
AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING
www.criticalairac.com TACLA021957E (Licensed & Insured) MNB ENTERPRISES LLC • DBA CRITICAL AIR
281-492-3450
$30 OFF any repair
cannot be combined with any offer TACLB019260E
FOR SALE
LEGALS
Call this paper to place your ad in millions of homes.
LEGAL
SERIOUSLY INJURED in an AUTO ACCIDENT? Let us fight for you! Our network has recovered millions for clients! Call today for a FREE consultation! 844-997-0591
MISCELLANEOUS
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate toBUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES day. 15% off Entire Purchase. MAKE MONEY ONLINE!! 10% Senior & Military DisBecome Financially Free! Vis- counts. Call 1-888-927-8649 it: JRMackcapital.com Recently diagnosed with
HEALTH & MEDICAL
LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 844-791-6012 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.
Portable Oxygen Concen‐ trator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and longlasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! SAVE BIG on HOME INSUR‐ ANCE! Compare 20 A-rated Call 855-727-9628 insurances companies. Get a HEARING AIDS!! Buy quote within minutes. Averone/get one FREE! Highage savings of $444/year! quality rechargeable Nano Call 855-993-0514! (M-F hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Nearly in- 8am-8pm Central)
visible! 45-day money back DISH Network. $59.99 for guarantee! 844-357-4008 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where INSTRUCTION Get your copy of the best available.) Switch & Get a book of herbal remedies FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. probably ever written. For FREE Voice Remote. FREE more details email James at HD DVR. FREE Streaming on james.fl oyd@fl oydjackson ALL Devices. Call today! 1855-419-7188 .com
GENERAC Standby Genera‐ tors. The weather is increasingly unpredictable. Be prepared for power outages. FREE 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!) Schedule your FREE in-home assessment today. Call 1-833-9530224 Special financing for Become a published au‐ qualified customers. thor! Publications sold at all major secular & specialty SERIOUSLY INJURED in an Christian bookstores. CALL AUTO ACCIDENT? Let us Christian Faith Publishing for fight for you! Our network your FREE author submission has recovered millions for clients! Call today for a FREE kit. 1-877-484-4025 consultation! 1-888-409-1261 HughesNet Satellite Inter‐ net - 25mbps starting at Thinking about installing a $49.99/mo! Get More Data new shower? American StanFREE Off-Peak Data. FAST dard makes it easy. FREE dedownload speeds. WiFi built sign consultation. Enjoy your in! FREE Standard Installa- shower again! Call 1-844tion for lease customers! Lim- 254-8510 today to see how ited Time, Call 1-855-942- you can save $1,000 on installation, or visit www.new3256 showerdeal.com/sapa DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insur- Guaranteed Life Insurance! ance Company. Coverage for (Ages 50 to 80). No medical 350 plus procedures. Real exam. Affordable premiums increase. Benefits dental insurance - NOT just a never discount plan. Do not wait! never decrease. Policy will Call now! Get your FREE only be canceled for nonDental Information Kit with payment. 1-866-915-2530 all the details! 1-866-694VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills 6148 www.dental50plus.com for $99. 100 pills for $150. /southern #6258 FREE shipping. Money back DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG guaranteed! 1-866-863-0142. CANCER? You may qualify The Generac PWRcell, a so‐ for a substantial cash award lar plus battery storage syseven with smoking history. tem. SAVE money, reduce NO obligation! We've recovyour reliance on the grid, ered millions. Let us help!! prepare for power outages Call 24/7, 855-331-4660 and power your home. Full DIRECTV - Every live foot‐ installation services available. ball game, every Sunday - $0 Down Financing Option. anywhere - on your favorite Request a FREE, no obligadevice. Restrictions apply. tion, quote today. Call 1-855Call IVS - 1-877-666-2821 913-2156 Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation. Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-844-9822392
Eddie Allum
Local Businesses! LEGALS NOTICE TO BIDDERS PRISON PROPERTY TRACTOR MOWING
BID NO. 2021-09: PRISON PROPERTY TRACTOR MOWING BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE Specifications and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com. Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 3, 2020, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read via teleconference. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered For questions regarding this bid, please post on Public Purchase www. publicpurchase.com no later than 3:00 p.m. Thursday, November 19, 2020. The City will award the contract and give notice of award within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A CAR WASH (QUICK QUACK COMPANY) ON APPROXIMATELY 0.86 ACRES LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF US HWY 90A AND UNIVERSITY BLVD.
Regional Classified Ads
THE FOLLOWING ADS HAVE NOT BEEN SCREENED BY THE SOUTHEASTERN ADVERTISING PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION (SAPA); Therefore, any discrepancies thereof shall not be the responsibility of the aforementioned association. Your publisher has agreed to participate in this program and run these ads as a service to the Southeastern Advertising Publishers Association.
♠
The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City:
www.myACandHEAT.com
Call 281-468-4250 anytime
Carpet • Remodeling • Ceramic Marble • Wood Flooring • Tile & grout cleaning & sealing • Laminate Wood Flooring • Granite Slab Countertops
281-898-0154
Frank Garza, owner
Ornamental Iron Fence
ACE TILE
Call TODAY for FREE ESTIMATE
• IRON FENCE REPAIR •
(281)
281-642-1992 • IRON FENCE REPAIR •
Tod Griffin
Insured Free Estimates References Since 1981
♠
Bond & Insu ed red
Interior/Exterior Painting Hardie Plank Siding • Pressure Washing Roofing • Remodeling • Carpentry Fence/Fence Repair
Painting by Tod
Call for appt.
★★★★
Open doors you never realized existed. We’ll change everything you ever might have thought about working in the funeral services industry. This isn’t your typical job. But we’re not your typical company, either.
HOME IMPROVEMENT Sheetrock Repair
FIND THE STAR ONLINE
This is not just a job. It is a meaningful career in sales that make a difference in the lives of people we serve while providing you an opportunity you will love.
Email your news or press release to editor@FortBendStar.com
Interior and Exterior
832-496-2349
Dignity Memorial is a Certified Great Place to Work! 91% of the employees surveyed said “My work has special meaning: This is not just a job.”
Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc. Our case managers simplify the process & work hard to help with your case. Call 1-844-408-7325 FREE Consultation. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]
SATELLITE TV
DISH TV - Over 190 Chan‐ nels Now ONLY $59.99/mo! 2yr price guarantee, FREE Installation! Save HUNDREDS over Cable and DIRECTV. Add Internet as low as $14.95/mo! 1-855-977-7405
TIMESHARE CANCELLATION
Avoid Timeshare Cancella‐ tion Scams. Consumer protection attorney will get you a legal low flat fee cancellation for less, with a 100% money back guarantee. TimeShareBeGone has an A+BBB rating and 5 star reviews. To request a quote, call 1-800-223-1770 or go to: outlegally.com
WANTED TO BUY
CASH FOR CARS! We buy all cars! Junk, high-end, totaled – it doesn’t matter! Get free towing and same day cash! NEWER MODELS too! Call 1-866-508-8362.
Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing 6:30 p.m., December 08, 2020, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, hosted via live stream at http:// www.sugarlandtx.gov/1238/SLTV-16-Live-Video or https://www.youtube.com/sugarlandtxgov/live, and Sugar Land Comcast Subscribers can also tune-in on Channel 16, to hear all persons interested in the proposed Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the establishment of a car wash facility (Quick Quack Company) classified in the Land Use Matrix as Auto Repair and Services, Minor, which requires a Conditional Use Permit in the General Business (B-2) District at the south corner of US HWY 90A and University Boulevard, further described as “Reserve A-2” within the Highway 90A Commercial Park Section Two Commercial Reserve A, Replat No. 1., File No. 20180028 in Fort Bend County Plat Records.
VICINITY MAP:
The agenda item for this meeting will be placed on the City of Sugar Land website at www.sugarlandtx. gov under “Meeting Agendas” Planning and Zoning Commission no later than Friday, December 04, 2020. Request details or provide feedback on the proposed Special Exception online at www.sugarlandtx.gov/ PublicHearingComment or contact City of Sugar Land Planning & Development Services Department at (281) 275-2218. As of the date of this publication (November 18, 2020) the Centers for Disease Control recommends social-distancing and the avoidance of large and small gatherings in public spaces in order to limit the spread of COVID-19. As a result, the City of Sugar Land has elected to conduct this meeting online. Members of the public wishing to view the meeting live may do so at the links above. Members of the public desiring to make comments during the public hearing may submit their written comments to the Office of City Secretary (citysec@sugarlandtx.gov). Comments should reference the hearing in the subject line, must be received by 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 08, 2020, then will be read into the record during the public hearing. Members of the public desiring to make their comments during the published date and time of the public hearing must e-mail (citysec@sugarlandtx.gov) or call (281) 275-2730) the Office of the City Secretary by 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 08, 2020 to register and receive instructions for direct participation during the hearing. Should the Centers for Disease Control, and/or the prevailing appropriate authority, lift the restrictions related to socialdistancing and the avoidance of large and small gatherings in public spaces prior to 72 hours of the date of the public hearings, the City of Sugar Land will provide notice to the public on the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting agenda at www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas.”
THE STAR
PAGE 6 • Wednesday, November 18, 2020
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Houston area in September. Two of them were Richmond stores, including two nights each at 5660 West Grand Parkway South and 5330 Farm to Market Road 1640. Sienna charged $15 per car, a relative bargain compared to the AMC First Colony location, where a single standard adult ticket for a 7 p.m. showing is $11.99. An FM radio frequency provided the audio for the movie. A portion of the pro-
ceeds were donated to the Fort Bend Meals on Wheels charity, which helps provide food to vulnerable senior citizens. Allison Bond, the marketing director for Johnson Development Corp., which designed the Sienna community, could not be reached for comment. While several attendees were pleased with the opportunity to safely socialize outdoors with family and neighbors,
the most common complaint was that their vantage point provided them either an awkward or obstructed view of the giant inflatable screen, which was set up on nearby Ironwood Pass Drive adjacent to the park, and faced southwest. Marcos Botelho, a Sienna resident who works at Texas Children’s Hospital, said he came shortly after the park opened and an hour before the movie was set to start, but did
not get a good spot to watch it. Like many parents, he supervised his children who played with glow sticks and danced to music supplied by a DJ while they waited in line for concessions and more cars began to file in. “We got here at 6:30 p.m. or so, and we parked by the road,” Botelho said. “Basically there was a tree and several cars in the way, so we can’t really see. But if you take that
out of the equation, it’s fun for the kids just to be out. It’s something they’ve missed.” Another Sienna resident, Cary Simons, brought her two children to watch “Smallfoot,” which she said they were excited to see for a second time. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been to a drivein,” Simons said. “I think it’s a great idea. It’s a great way to spend some time with the family all together.” While Simons said their “angle was not great” and that she hoped it wouldn’t affect the experience, the main goal was to enjoy an evening out that was a departure from the sheltered lives many families have led as a precaution due to the ongoing pandemic. She said Sienna had a similar drive-in event during the summer, which she and her family skipped. But she was eager to take advantage of the cooler fall weather. “The kids are having fun, so that’s kind of the main thing,” Simons said. “I think we’d do it again. It’s a nice night, and I think we’d hope for a better spot. But the kids are having fun, and it’s better than being stuck inside in front of a video screen.”
learn from one another,” Zakaria said. “We’ve really realized that we all want the same thing, we all want to take care of our families. It’s very nice to have a new group of friends that you can move forward with and do meaningful projects with.” This year’s event will feature a homily from the Hindus of Greater Houston as well as musical and dance presentations and scripture readings from several different groups, including the Ismaili Muslim Choir, Christ Church Sugar Land, a United Methodist branch, and the Jewish Congregation Beth El. Starkweather said there is also an interfaith choir that has been working diligently to put together a program for the viewing
audience. “Quite frankly, I’m excited to see what it looks like because that’s completely outside of my comfort zone,” Starkweather said. In addition to highlighting the similarities between the various sects or denominations within groups, Ali said he welcomes acknowledging the differences. He said the biggest source of common ground among different religions is their “shared responsibility to help others.” “It’s not necessarily a bad thing,” Ali said. “It’s OK to have that diversity. Because if everyone was exactly the same, then the world would be quite a boring place. But how do you learn about one another, and where do you go? These types of interfaith exchanges are quite vital in building these
bridges within communities, which hopefully can start and inspire some action for followers to do what they can to help others.” Zakaria said she feels fortunate to be in such a diverse community because of the exposure it’s provided for her and her four children. And while others may not have the same appreciation for other cultures or faiths, she said it’s something that can be overcome with dialogue and mutual understanding. She wants FBIC to be a “safe place” for that communication to occur. “A lot of times it’s fear, you fear the unknown,” Zakaria said. “We try to dispel that fear with conversation and human interaction to get that conversation going and getting to know somebody new. It’s hard to take
that first step and I just feel like we have that opportunity because we do have that diversity around us.” Starkweather said it was important to exhibit gratitude and respect for the sacrifices and hardships many have endured during a time of anxiety and stress for many, while having an appreciation for the things that are often taken for granted. “We have a choice about how to feel about this and what sort of attitude to approach it from,” Starkweather said. “It’s really easy to be disappointed about the things that we aren’t going to be able to do and the things that feel like loss, but at the same time, I think the spirit of this day and the spirit of what we’ve tried to do over the past several years
is to sort of shift our focus and say, ‘OK, well in the middle of hard times, what is it that we still have to be thankful for? And what is it that can bring us together, even when we need to be apart?’” Starkweather said it is this year’s central theme, hope, that unites people from vastly different backgrounds. “Hope is that thing that brings all together, and unites us when everything seems like it’s falling apart,” Starkweather said. “What better reason to gather a bunch of folks together? And what a great witness. Fort Bend is among or maybe the most diverse county in the U.S. And so it has this wonderful opportunity to celebrate that diversity and says, ‘This is why we’re here.’”
Fort Bend Star that while he may have disagreed with Dupre’s approach and plan for virtual learning in response to the pandemic, he acknowledged that the pandemic has presented an unprecedented set of challenges to educators. “For me personally, I am sad to see Dr. Dupre go but I am not surprised,” Garcia wrote. “I think this last board election may have been a referendum against FBISD’s leadership and I think a lot of parents are in need of something different. (The 2020 school year) has been an incredibly difficult year for everyone and one of the biggest challenges we faced this year besides the pandemic was how do we educate our children in the midst of it.” On Nov. 12, the deadline to request a learning model change with the district, 11 percent of FBISD fami-
lies shifted from online to face-to-face or vice versa, Dupre said in a Nov. 13 message to parents. The district saw 7,558 students shift from online to faceto-face and 1,041 shift from face-to-face to online learning. “I wasn’t very thrilled about how they phased us back into face-to-face instruction,” Garcia said. “I felt that the plan was formed after school had started. I know they were working over the summer but when they announced that if you choose to go back in person, that (meant) you would have to change your schedule. A complete disruption to the kids and their routines was unnecessary if they planned it differently from the beginning.” In addition, Garcia said parents and teachers alike have felt they have had to shoulder an unfair burden in trying to learn how to
facilitate remote learning with little notice. “The added amount of stress on the teachers has been pretty heartbreaking to witness,” Garcia said. “The district and administration put so much added pressure and work requirements on the teachers which included learning all of this new technology with very little notice. So (that was) poor implementation there.” Another move that divided many FBISD parents was the sudden change to the district’s 2020-21 academic calendar. Several parents expressed concerns about missing vacation plans, graduation ceremonies or field trips that had been rescheduled due to the pandemic, extending Spring Break to two weeks and pushing the last day for students to June 3 and the last day for teachers to June 4. The school year
was previously set to end May 26. Dupre was sharply critiqued for his comments about the calendar change during a Nov. 9 school board meeting. “I’m going to be honest, and it’s going to sound callous, but there’s time to adjust summer plans,” Dupre said at the time. “Our goal is to run a system for all children. I don’t think we can make the decision based on one-off ‘we’ve made plans for that week’ and they need to do what they need to do.” Garcia said while he may have disagreed with Dupre’s approach, he acknowledged, “These have certainly been the most trying times for everyone involved.” “This is horrible,” said Orjanel Lewis, an attorney and an adjunct professor with Houston Community College. “He helped to give a voice to
many voiceless communities. I hate to see him go.” In 2019, Dupre was named a statewide finalist for the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Superintendent of the Year Award, and all FBISD schools met the 2019 accountability standard set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). In 2018, the district was named the Best Large School District in the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. “I do see light at the end of the tunnel and I am optimistic and excited for FBISD’s future,” Garcia said. “Dr. Dupre is leaving FBISD in a better state than when he first started but now it is time to make it even better. I appreciate his service to this district and to this community and I wish him well in all of his future endeavors.”
★ MOVIE FROM PAGE 1 nounced progress with its coronavirus vaccine, the event at Sienna was an important outlet for several families. Going to a drive-in is not only a nostalgic affair for some — it’s also a contactless, outdoor alternative to traditional movie theaters. While indoor theaters like AMC said they are following social distancing guidelines by limiting seating to 40 percent capacity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said that indoor gatherings are far more likely to transmit the virus. There have been a few different options for drive-ins across Greater Houston since the pandemic hit in March. More recently, on Aug. 21, The Club at New Territory had an outdoor drive-up showing of “The Goonies,” charging $5 per vehicle and including a prepackaged snack bag with the purchase of a movie fare. Beginning in August and ending in October, Walmart launched a series of pop-up drive-ins in their store parking lots across the country, including several in the
★ SERVICE FROM PAGE 1 each faith tradition sort of espouses and encourages the followers of those traditions to maintain and propagate, which includes some universal values of compassion and generosity and looking out for their fellow brothers and sisters,” Ali said. “Whether or not they follow (the same) faith tradition is immaterial.” Nihala Zakaria, a Muslim-American and an FBIC board member and event coordinator, said it is important for people of faith to get to know their neighbors and have conversations to better understand each other. “I feel like we’ve had opportunities to meet. We’ve had dinner dialogues, so many opportunities to
★ REACTION FROM PAGE 1 weeks, God has made very clear to us that the upcoming transition of the board presented the right opportunity to also begin a transition in our life,” Dupre said. “During the coming months I will remain committed to supporting staff and the board of trustees as we continue our efforts to serve students during the current pandemic and as the board prepares for the future.” Dupre joined FBISD as internal auditor in April 1995 and returned to the district in 2013 after serving in Pflugerville ISD for seven years. Rick Garcia, a parent and longtime volunteer who serves as chairman for FBISD’s School Boundary Oversight Committee, wrote in an email to the
The movie “Smallfoot” plays on a big screen Nov. 6 at Heritage Park in the Sienna neighborhood of Missouri City. Sienna hosted a drive-in movie night for its residents. (Photos by Stefan Modrich)
Follow Stefan Modrich on Twitter @StefanJModrich
Facebook/FortBendStar • Twitter: @FortBendStar | @FtBendAthletics SUBSCRIBE TODAY FOR MAILBOX DELIVERY
281.690.4200
FOR ONLY
52
$
00
1-YEAR
Business FORT BEND
KATY
JOURNAL The Monthly Business to Business Magazine THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Contact John Sazma for advertising rates • 281-690-4206 • jsazma@fortbendstar.com
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 18, 2020 • PAGE
Richmond resident leads The Medicare you earned. food drive in Sugar Land The flexibility you deserve. The new Visa Flex Card. Only from WellCare.
By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
When Richmond’s Quincy Collins was a young boy growing up near Downtown Houston, his grandparents helped to feed homeless people nearby. “They would make large pots of beef stew,” Collins said. “They would just go by and wherever they saw someone who they felt needed something to eat, they would feed them.” That was the spark for Collins, who now is raising a family of his own, and he remains dedicated to helping serve through his nonprofit, Families Helping Families (FHF). With the spirit of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday in mind, Collins secured the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land to partner with FHF Houston. From 5 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday at the venue, FHF will aim to feed 300 families, 100 more than last year. The organization, which was founded in 2013, will provide about 50 perishable and non-perishable food items, including a Thanksgiving turkey. In order to cover the cost of groceries to feed the 300 families, Collins said FHF will need to raise $45,000 this year. “Right now we are short on our goal,” Collins said. “In order to meet that goal, we will need the community’s support.” As of Monday, FHF had raised $10,050 via its GoFundMe page. But Collins said the best way to donate is by going directly to FHF’s website. In previous years, Collins and FHF have partnered
New
LOCAL EVENTS ON PAGE 8
Get $1,500 up to Collins
with the Fort Bend ISD Police Department and other local institutions or civic groups to collect food for those in need. The pandemic necessitated a change to the method FHF used to distribute the donated goods. “In the past, what we’ve done is deliver the groceries to the families,” Collins said. “But due to COVID-19 restrictions, we aren’t able to do that this year. So we’re asking the families to come to Smart Financial Centre.” Collins said the group and its volunteers have adapted well to health guidelines and protocols brought on by the pandemic. Like many other food drives happening around Greater Houston, FHF’s will be curbside, contactless delivery. Collins said the event will be tightly and efficiently run, which is the way he likes to operate. Each family will have already been contacted by a volunteer prior to their arrival and assigned an appointment time. In addition, he hopes to have volunteers loading 30 vehicles at once during a
30-minute time slot. FHF is always looking for volunteers for contacting those in need as well as to solicit donations from the community, along with volunteer coordinators to help with scheduling shifts. “If they don’t want to show up and work on site, there’s always things volunteers can do behind the scenes,” Collins said. “And if they want to do that, there’s always things people can do to make sure things are going smoothly on-site.” Collins is optimistic that his efforts will pay off and create a culture of sacrifice and selflessness. “I’m hoping that everyone in our community will chime in and latch on to what we’re doing and want to be a part of it, and help our fellow Houstonians out in making sure our families are taken care of and are able to eat on Thanksgiving,” Collins said. “For us who can, it’s our job to give back and be a blessing to others. That’s the key moving forward. We’ve just got to keep going and serve as many families as we possibly can.”
Christopher August Meyer, Attorney at Law • • • • •
DEBIT
GOOD THRU
When you choose select WellCare Medicare Advantage plans, you can personalize your coverage with the NEW Flex Card. The Flex Card is a pre-funded Visa debit card that could give you an extra $1,500in benefits per year. Use your Flexible Spending Card to pay for hearing, dental or vision needs beyond what your plan covers. With the Flex Card, you get:
Choice: Visit in-network and out-of-network providers
Family Law
Divorce Child Custody Child Support Enforcement Modifications
Chiang Law Firm, PLLC
(713) 568-9206
Estate Planning
chris@chianglaw.com
• Wills • Trusts • Probate
Chiang Law Firm, PLLC | 1418 Lake Pointe Pkwy. | Sugar Land, TX 77478 Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Coverage: Pay for dental, vision and hearing expenses with no out-of-pocket costs to you
Extras: 3 Generations of Quality Service, Integrity & Honesty
Autos foreign & domestic Vehicle + RV detailing
Family Owned and Operated in Fort Bend County
Since 1951
Then Charlton’s Garage & Station & Auto Sales in Stafford, Texas, 1951-1970. Owned by E.C. Charlton.
Now Current garage at Staffordshire & Fifth St. Stafford, Texas.
Still the Same Great Service!
281-499-1126 • Staffordshire Rd at 5th Street Stafford, TX 77477 • www.Charltonsbodyrepair.com Monday – Friday, 7am-6pm
Those were the days - Charlton’s Body Repair - 01-31-18- 3colx3”
Upgrade your plan offering on items like dentures, eyeglasses, hearing support and more
You have from October 15 to December 7 to choose your Medicare coverage for 2021! Choose your Medicare plan today.
Call to get your Visa Flex Card! 1-844-986-0048 (TTY: 711) 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Visit WellCareforTX.com to find a virtual or local event.
Cosmetic procedures are not covered under this benefit. Benefits may vary by region. WellCare Health Plans, Inc., is an HMO, PPO, PFFS plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 1-877-699-3552 TTY 711. There is no obligation to enroll. Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat WellCare members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services. Y0070_WCM_60959E_FINAL3_M CMS Accepted 09212020 NA1WCMADV60959E_BASE ©WellCare 2020
7
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, November 18, 2020
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Review: First Watch a refreshing take on breakfast By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to have a slow morning, First Watch in Sugar Land will be happy to oblige. The popular breakfast and brunch chain has a plethora of healthy plates and some interesting spins on classic morning staples, and it does so for a reasonable price — all entrees are less than $15. There are many Tex-Mex items that are a nod to the Greater Houston area’s influence in popularizing one of the most iconic subgenres of American cuisine. One that came highly recommended to me, and that I can also endorse, is the Chickichanga ($11.49), which was inspired by the deep-fried burrito known as the Chimichanga. Similar to an omelet or frittata, the Chickichanga features eggs that have been lightly whipped. The eggs are topped
Pictured is the Chickichanga with potatoes and fruit from First Watch in Sugar Land during a recent visit. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)
with sour cream and salsa verde and envelop the chicken breast, chorizo, green chilies, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, onions and avocado, all of which has been rolled in
a four tortilla. Fresh fruit (grapes and pineapple slices) and seasoned, diced potatoes are served on the side. There is an impressive rota-
tion of seasonal juices at First Watch’s juice bar, including Morning Meditation ($4.49), a blend of fresh-squeezed oranges, lemons, turmeric, organic ginger, agave nectar and beets,
COMMUNITY
and a Kale Tonic ($4.49) with Fuji apples, cucumber and lemons. If you’d prefer a standalone juice, you can have a plain glass of orange juice, apple juice or cranberry juice. I elected to go with grapefruit juice. There’s definitely something for just about every diet at First Watch. If you have a gluten allergy or prefer gluten-free foods, the Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl ($10.39) has Italian sausage, house-roasted Crimini mushrooms and tomatoes, kale, parmesan and extra virgin olive oil, topped with two basted cage-free eggs. For a more indulgent breakfast, the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes ($9.99) are among the highlights of this star-studded menu. The stack of two pancakes made with a multigrain batter is topped with marinated berries, a creamy lemon curd and powdered cinnamon sugar. If you’ve been wanting to experience a getaway to Texas’ Gulf Coast counterpart but
prefer to stay local, the Floridian French Toast ($10.49) also has a bit of French flair to it, with a thick-cut brioche bread base with wheat germ and powdered cinnamon sugar. It’s covered with fresh banana, kiwi and seasonal berries. And if that doesn’t make you a morning person, I’m not sure what else will. Thankfully, you don’t need to be, because breakfast, lunch and brunch are served from open to close.
First Watch
Address: 9920 Highway 90-A, Sugar Land Dining Options: Dine-in, curbside pick-up, delivery via Uber Eats Hours: 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. daily Entrée prices: $7.29 $13.99 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Healthy options: Yes Star of the show: Chickichanga
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.
CALENDAR
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. NOVEMBER 19, 2020 FORT BEND COUNTY DRIVETHROUGH ADOPTION PARADE 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Join CPS staff and community partners as they celebrate 10 adoptive families at the Fort BendÕ s Children Assessment Center at 5403 Avenue N in Rosenberg. NOVEMBER 21 - 6 A.M.-5 P.M. FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES HOUSTON FOOD DRIVE Families Helping Families Houston is hosting a food drive at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land. FHF will have contactless, curbside pickup stations for families to drive up and have the free food items placed in their vehicleÕ s trunk by volunteers. All volunteers will sign a COVID-19 waiver, wear masks and practice social distancing. For information on donating or volunteering please visit: https://www.fhfhouston. com/ NOVEMBER 21, 2020 12TH ANNUAL OPERATION THANKSGIVING “STUFF THE SQUAD CAR AND FIRE TRUCK” 9 a.m.-12 p.m. - The Missouri City Fire Department and Police Department are asking for the communityÕ s help to collect canned and nonperishable food items for the Bethel Ministry and Fort Bend WomenÕ s Shelter. For more information, call Sergeant Russel DÕ Oench at 281-403-5819. NOVEMBER 23, 2020 INTERFAITH THANKSGIVING SERVICE The Fort Bend Interfaith Community would like to invite people from all-faiths to a virtual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service with the theme of Ò Signs of Hope.Ó The service can be viewed at 7 p.m. on both YouTube and Facebook live. The event will feature readings, songs, poems, dances and prayers from 13 different faith communities including Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, BahaÕ i, and Hindu. NOVEMBER 26, 2020 THE THANKFUL ONES TURKEY TROT 8 a.m. The Thankful Ones Turkey Trot is set to take place at the Pecan Grove Plantation at 2438 Windmill Drive in Richmond on Thanksgiving Day. Registration begins at 7 a.m. for sameday sign-up, and the 5K race begins at 8 a.m. Parking is available at the nearby Randall's, located at 1890 Farm to Market Road 359. The
Honored to be your choice for life insurance. LISA N SIMS, AGENT Monday - Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 10 - 2 After hours by appointment
Thankful Ones is a non-profit organization that provides financial support to the families in the process of adopting a child of parents who have suffered from addiction or substance abuse. For more information or to register, visit www. thethankfulones.org/events NOVEMBER 30, 2020 QUICK QUACK CAR WASH DON’T DRIVE DIRTY Quick Quack Car Wash located at 19311 West Bellfort Blvd., Richmond 77407 is celebrating their new location on Monday, November 30th, from 3:00 pm Ð 6:00pm. Get to know your neighbors, receive an autism duckie and stop by for a FREE car wash; donations welcome. The event benefits local nonprofit Hope For Three Autism Advocates. Join Quick Quack in making a difference, and donÕ t drive dirty! Learn more at www.dontdrivedirty.com. For autism resources, visit www.hopeforthree.org DECEMBER 9, 2020 SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB TEACHER OF THE YEAR LUNCH 12 p.m. The Sugar Land Rotary Club is pleased to announce its Fort Bend ISD Teacher of the Year Lunch at Sugar Creek Country Club and on Zoom. Please visit Sugar Land RotaryÕ s website for the Zoom link. Prospective members and guests are invited to attend, the cost is $20 for lunch. JANUARY 23, 2021 SAVE THE DATE FELICIA SMITH JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION ItÕ s back! The family-fun entertaining, challenging and fun jigsaw puzzle competition is slated for January 23, 2021. Presenting Sponsor, LearningRx Sugar Land preps for the 4th Annual Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition. Puzzle fanatics or first-time puzzlers, ages 10 and up, rally together to raise autism awareness until all the pieces fit. Awards and bragging rights guaranteed! Join sponsors OCuSOFT, Inc., Fort Bend Teen Service League and Robert Ò PoppyÓ Lampkin for this virtual affair! To learn more or to register your team ($125) now, visit www. hopeforthree.org/events. Limited availability. ONGOING FORT BEND SENIORS MEALS ON WHEELS SECRET SANTA The Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels is hosting a Secret Santa for Seniors Program. Gifts can be dropped off Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 1330 Band Road in Rosenberg no later than Dec. 4th. For those interested in volunteering to deliver meal and gifts to our home-bound seniors, please contact iloveseniors@fortbendseniors.org. If you are dropping off a large amount of gifts
11647 S Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com
or need to change your drop-off time, please call 281.633.7049 or email leah@fortbendseniors.org. CIRCLE OF HOPE CHANGE A CHILD’S FUTURE For nearly a decade, local nonprofit Hope For Three Autism Advocates has provided local families with the gift Hope. The organizations gift-giving program, Circle of Hope can change a childÕ s future. Supporters select a monthly amount to give so families have access to lifechanging therapies and treatments children with autism might otherwise go without. Double your impact on Giving Tuesday, 12/1 at 7am on Facebook. Simply make a donation early and your contribution can be matched. Continue on to Double the Donation! Check to see if your employer will match your gift. Give where you live, www.hopeforthree.org/corporate-matchinggift-programs 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 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! MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801 Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., Missouri City Rec Center. Lunch, education, and entertainment. All seniors over 50 invited. For more information, call 713-859-5920 or 281-499-3345. BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT Volunteers are needed to be a role model, mentor and friend to children with exceptional needs in the community. Training, mileage reimbursement, 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. 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.
EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 35+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY 281-243-2344 281.243.2300
Mike Schofield 281-217-5799
14090 S.W. Freeway Suite #200 Sugar Land, TX
(Direct)
(Main) • KenWoodPC.com
Alief MEDICAL SALES Dine-In Open!
TAKE-OUT & CATERING
AVAILABLE
17 years
family owned and operated LUNCH SPECIALS HOME MADE TAMALES & TORTILLAS MARGARITA’S TO-GO!
SOUTHWEST FREEWAY 281.240.3060 12821 LasHaciendasGrill.com
SHORT TERM WHEELCHAIR RENTALS AVAILABLE
Buy a pair of COMPRESSION TRAVEL SOCKS and get the 2nd pair
11851-A Wilcrest Houston, TX 77031 Phone 281-530-3232 • www.AliefMedicalSales.com
20% OFF