We review Brandani's Restaurant & Wine Bar – Page 8 Extend Fence Life
WEDNESDAY • MARCH 23, 2022
Law enforcement warns elderly fraud hard to prove, prosecute By Matt deGrood MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
An elderly Sugar Land woman recently received a visit from an aggressive salesperson – one who convinced her she had a rat infestation and had her sign an $8,000 contract before he left. Now, the woman’s son is wondering what the difference between aggressive sales tactics and outright fraud is? And how does law enforcement decide what cases to pursue, and which belong in civil courts? The answer, according to local law enforcement and prosecutors, is complicated. But one thing is clear – cases of elder fraud are on the rise across the county and nation, but victims are often reticent to report it and data on the scope of the issue is scant, they agreed. “This is a really difficult conversation to have,” said John Brewer, the chief of the economic crimes division for the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. “Because you want us to speculate on what is and is not criminal, when in reality it is very factdriven.” Nationally, it appears cases of fraud against the elderly are on a rapid rise in recent years. Of the $4.1 billion stolen through online scams in 2020, about 28 percent came from people over the age of 60, according to FBI data. The number of victims per year has also grown from less than 60,000 in 2015 up to more than 100,000 in 2020, according to FBI data. “I think unfortunately within the community, elder abuse and fraud overall is not all that well-known,” said Leslie Morton, a member of the mental health unit with the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. “It’s not clear how often it happens, because a lot of cases don’t get reported to the police. And I do think there’s underreporting.” Sugar Land police officer Lauren Stockholm has given talks in nursing homes and other community organizations in recent years, trying to emphasize the importance of being wary of scams, especially online and phone scams, she said. “The reason older communities are targeted is because they’re from a generation that tends to be polite,” she said. “They answer the phone when someone calls, when most millennials won’t.” The police department hasn’t worked that many cases of elder fraud in recent years, Stockholm said, but she agreed with prosecutors that some
SEE FRAUD PAGE 7
Various Color Options
BEFORE
713-397-4477 • SOS-ASAP.com
AFTER
Visit www.FortBendStar.com
Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 46 • No. 31
City Manager Jackson unveils new-look Missouri City By Matt deGrood MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
City Manager Charles “Tink” Jackson hasn’t even been in the Missouri City job long enough to receive a 90-day assessment, but already things are starting to look a little different at city hall.
New communications director Tara Powdrill Crain began work just last week, the newest of several administrative hires Jackson has made since arriving on the job in December. Crain will be joined by two additional hires by next week, Jackson said. “Half of our leadership team is here, and
See related column on .................. PAGE 3
Jackson
the other half will arrive next week,” Jackson said. “We have lots of great ideas between us. People are going to start noticing new programs
and things that we are doing.” After several years of tumult inside the city administration and a city council often making decisions in tight 4-3 votes, Mayor Robin Elackatt is hopeful that Missouri City gov-
SEE JACKSON PAGE 7
21st century space Big changes coming to Sugar Land Town Square By Matt deGrood MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
The sounds of an excavator moving and workers shoveling dirt break up what is otherwise a quiet weekday afternoon at Sugar Land Town Square. Walking along the development’s streets, it’s hard not to notice all the construction, from the big sections marked off with tape to the mounds of dirt. As businesses begin to emerge from the worst of the pandemic shutdowns, developers at Sugar Land Town Square, business owners and new businesses have begun pouring millions of dollars into the upscale Fort Bend County shopping destination. The goal is to keep the location competitive in a retail arena that has changed dramatically in recent years, according to Matt Ragan, the director of retail programming and operations for Rebees, a Dallas-based real estate company that handles development on much of Sugar Land Town Square. “We definitely want to keep some retail there,” Ragan said. “But we ultimately want Sugar Land Town Square to be a 21st century version of a social, political and commercial hub of Sugar Land. Sugar Land Town Square isn’t just a shopping area. It’s also the social and political and culture epicenter of the community.” The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated what was already a nationwide shift in retail sales, with more shoppers switching to e-commerce sites. In-person sales declined by as much as 45 percent at times during the pandemic, according to a RetailDive analysis. Ever since Rebees took over as one of the major retail developers at the site in late 2019, the company began work on overhauling the
Construction crews were at work last week on a beautification project at Sugar Land Town Square, an upscale shopping destination that is being updated. (Photo by Matt deGrood)
site to better reflect what shoppers might look like in the future, Ragan said. That includes a multi-milliondollar landscape overhaul to the western half of the development, providing more shade and greenery to encourage people to walk through Sugar Land Town Square, he said. Ragan declined to give specific
dollar amounts, but added that some restaurants and businesses have also spent millions to upgrade their facilities and increase outdoor seating. The Rouxpour Restaurant & Bar, for instance, inked a $75,000 agreement with the city of Sugar Land to almost double the restaurant’s outdoor seating capacity, up to about 130 outdoor seats, ac-
cording to company owners. “We’re working with tenants to help them create new, modern storefronts,” Ragan said. “You’re seeing those pop up. Perry’s Steakhouse just finished theirs.” Over the next year, Rebees expects about 12 additional store-
SEE TOWN SQUARE PAGE 7
Gritty Broncos soccer riding high entering postseason By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Bush High School boys soccer coach Gabriel Martinez-Gracida knows his team’s style might not be the most aesthetically pleasing to watch play out. However, he said it doesn’t have to look pleasing to the eye – it just needs to be effective. “Winning by one goal doesn’t necessarily mean the game was close – it means we came out to counter-attack or defend,” Mar-
tinez-Gracida said. “High school soccer is not about how pretty you look, it’s about winning.” Martinez-Gracida’s squad has done a lot of winning this season. The Broncos went 13-5-2 during their recently-completed regular season, including a 10-3-1 record in District 20-6A to capture the program’s first district championship since 2015, according to archives on the UIL website. Bush will face Katy Taylor in
SEE BRONCOS PAGE 7
The Bush High School boys soccer team enters postseason play on the heels of its first district title since 2015. (Contributed photo)
JERRY FLOWERS
Real Estate Agent, MBA, CNE, ABE Army Veteran (RET) • 832-702-5241 Jerry@dreamhomesbyjerry.com
4500 Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478
THE STAR
PAGE 2 • Wednesday, March 23, 2022
Richmond woman accused of shooting husband weapon in connection to the shooting, according to court records. Her bond is not yet set. Sheriff’s deputies were called to reports of a domestic disturbance at about 6:50 a.m. March 10 in the 6600 block of Plum Springs Lane in Richmond, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office. Deputies found Larry Martinez, 31, injured and transported him to the medical center, where he was listed in stable condition, according to the release. A witness told investigators that Adonia Martinez had allegedly shot her husband as he was leaving in their vehicle shortly after an argument, according to the release.
By Matt deGrood MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
A Richmond woman is accused of shooting her husband when he tried to leave the home after an argument, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. Adonia Martinez, 32, of Richmond, has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly
Martinez
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
SLPD officer in serious condition following crash on Highway 59 By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
An officer with the Sugar Land Police Department is in serious, but stable condition after his patrol car was struck by another vehicle as he provided aid to a crashed driver on State Highway 59 over the weekend, according to the department. The officer involved was Ruben Munoz, who has been with SLPD for more than a year, according to Houston television station KPRC. There was also a woman taken to the
By Landan Kuhlmann
713-433-6421
Several Stafford firefighters have been deployed to help battle ongoing large wildfires in West Texas, according to a news release from the city. Stafford Fire Chief Lar-
• Framing • Sheetrock • Painting • Fences • Concrete/Granite • Tile, Brick & Laminate • Tree Service
14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org
ry Di Camillo received a call for help earlier this week, the release said, and has sent two members of the Stafford Fire Department’s strike team and an off-road brush fire vehicle in response. The team is battling a brush fire that is threatening at least 50 homes in San An-
CHEAP TRASH HAULING FAST
I BUY JUNK CARS
Home/Business • FREE ESTIMATES
WE WILL BEAT ANY PRICE
20% Off
With Ad #1 Cheapest Trash Hauling / Demolition Co. in TX! If You’ve Got It, We’ll Haul It. 7 Days Same Day Service • In Your Area
832-860-1054
AAACheapTrashHauling.com Insured
713-235-0560
YO COMPRO CARROS VIEJOS
No Title, No Problem! Payment Up To $600 Call Selvin
3 Generations of Quality Service, Integrity & Honesty
832-878-2551 Autos foreign & domestic Vehicle + RV detailing
Since 1951
Richmond to offer homestead exemption By Matt deGrood
Now
Then Charlton’s Garage & Station & Auto Sales in Stafford, Texas, 1951-1970. Owned by E.C. Charlton.
gelo, according to the city of Stafford. The city said SFD’s team will be deployed for seven days to help battle the fires, which have scorched tens of thousands of acres and destroyed dozens of homes and businesses in West Texas. For more information on the Stafford Fire Department, visit its website at staffordtx.gov/departments/fire/home.html.
MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Family Owned and Operated in Fort Bend County
Wally is the perfect cuddly buddy you could EVER ask for! She loves to roll on her back and have you pet her. Wally loves all the attention she can get and be loved on so dearly. If you have so much love to give, Wally is the girl for you! Visit her today at Houston Humane Society- 14700 Almeda Rd. MondaySunday 11 AM -5:30 PM
said a woman driving a Jeep struck the pickup truck. Both Munoz and the woman were taken to the Houston Medical Center by Life Flight, SLPD spokesperson Doug Adolph said, while the driver of the pickup truck had non-lifethreatening injuries. Adolph said Munoz was in serious, but stable condition as of Tuesday morning. “Many of our command staff and officers have been at the hospital to support him and his family,” Adolph said. Adolph said the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Stafford firefighters help battle West Texas wildfires LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
EXPERIENCED IN TOTAL HOME REPAIRS! Roof Replacement & Repairs Shower, Siding & Additions
hospital in critical condition and another man who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to SLPD. SLPD said officers were initially called to the scene of a single-car crash just before 2 a.m. Sunday, with the driver telling police he had hit some debris on the road and spun out. As Munoz stayed at the scene in his patrol car to block off the HOV lane while the driver’s car was hooked up to a tow truck, police said a pickup truck hit the patrol vehicle and knocked Munoz unconscious. Shortly thereafter, SLPD
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
Richmond homeowners could now qualify for a 1.5 percent, minimum $5,000 homestead exemption. The city commission last month approved the new homestead exemption, according to a news release. The city already had a $6,000 exemption for residents over age 65, but hadn’t offered a homestead exemption, according to the release.
Those were the days - Charlton’s Body Repair - 01-31-18- 3colx3”
Leading Medicine
IN ROSENBERG Quality Primary Care – Now in Rosenberg Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is coming to Rosenberg to support the growing communities in Fort Bend County. Opening in April 2022, our new practice will offer primary care closer to where you live and work. We are safely seeing patients of all ages — in person and virtually — for you and your family’s essential primary care needs, including: •
Acute care
•
•
Chronic disease management
Physicals and health screenings
•
Preventive care
•
Routine immunizations
•
Men’s and women’s health
99
90 59 762
36
HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP IN ROSENBERG
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/rosenberg-pcp or call 713.394.6638.
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, March 23, 2022 • PAGE
3
Let’s celebrate Missouri City’s positive shift Matt deGrood MANAGING EDITOR
A common critique I’ve heard about journalism is that news organizations are only interested in covering negative news, and sometimes they pick on community x, person y or organization z. I want to assure all our readers that this is not true. But I also felt that given that fact, it might be good to write a column pointing out something good. A few weeks ago, Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt reached out to the Fort Bend Star and said he wanted to meet
and talk about the city. It took a bit of time for our schedules to sync up, but the ultimate result of that meeting appears on today’s front page. Missouri City has undergone a tough slate in recent years. For a time, tight 4-3 votes were the norm on the city council, and the city watched a series of city managers come and go, sometimes under a cloud of controversy. The Fort Bend Star was there to cover every moment, and sometimes wrote editorials critical of the city’s decision-making and transparency during that time. At long last, it appears the city might be on the cusp of something different. Simply put, members of council seem to have buried the hatchet and agreed to move forward for the betterment of
the city. And new City Manager Charles “Tink” Jackson has laid out a plan to bring stability to city administration, and interact more with residents in the community. It’s worth bearing in mind the words of both Elackatt and Jackson that it is still early, and we shouldn’t be too quick to draw larger conclusions about whether this new approach will last in Missouri City. But the mere fact that Elackatt reached out and wanted to talk about the good things that are happening in Missouri City speaks to the change in tone. Cities across the country have spent big dollars in recent years on PR agencies to help them sell the positive aspects of their community to the wider world. But the recipe for success is really quite simple – transparency, honesty
and a sincere passion for the community. I think when city leaders and organizations criticize news media for being overly negative, they’re really focusing on the fact that news tends to come in waves. That is, for a city that fires a city manager or a county that goes through a major scandal, the full story is likely to unfold over months and in a series of articles (first, there are warning signs that the manager’s time might be coming to an end, then a meeting to discuss their future, followed by a series of stories about the search and, finally, a story about hiring the new manager). For an entity going through a period like that, I can see how it’s easy to feel like journalists are picking on them. We aren’t. Each week, we try to present a vari-
SUBSCRIBE TODAY FOR MAILBOX DELIVERY
52
for only
$ 281.690.4200
1-YEAR
ety of news and features on our front pages to fully cover the spectrum of life in Fort Bend County. Sometimes that will look positive, other times less so. Take this very edition as a good example. From a feature on the Bush High School boys soccer team making the playoffs to stories about Sugar Land and Missouri City and one about elder fraud, we’ve deliberately strived for a mix of soft
and hard news from several different areas in our coverage space. But just as news comes in cycles, it seems like Missouri City might be about to enter a new, more upbeat one. Time will tell how sustainable these changes will be a year, two years from now. For now, let’s celebrate the positive and transparent direction the city has taken of late.
OBITUARY
VIVIAN LEE HAYS “MIMI” (DUNNING) DECEMBER 13, 1941
Vivian Lee Hays, 80, Left this world March 4th, 2022 to go to her eternal home in heaven with her God, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Vivian has also reunited with her late husband Jimmie Lee Hays. Vivian will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Vivian was born on December 13th, 1941, in Wichita Falls TX to Hubert Ray and Annie Mae Dunning. Vivian is survived by her son, Timothy L. Hays and wife Joanne of Missouri City Texas; son Mark L. Hays and wife Claudia of Stafford TX; son Monty R. Berkey and wife Maria, of Cypress TX; daughter Sharra L. McLaughlin and husband Scott of Hebron OH. Vivian was blessed with six grandchildren: Stephanie, Jaclyn, Scott, Kari, Alexis, and James and eight Great grandchildren: Carson, Kade, Kinsley, Dalton, Sawyer, Hudson, Jacob, and Hayden. Vivian graduated Wichita Falls high school in 1960, began her work career as a registered lab technician and went on to hold various healthcare positions throughout her career.
MARCH 4, 2022
Vivian was deeply committed to her church Horizon Baptist Church; formerly Heritage Baptist Church for over 25 years. Her family would like to thank her precious neighbors, extended church family and brothers and sisters in Christ. God bless each of you that touched our Mothers (and fathers) lives. A Memorial Service will be held at Horizon Baptist Church 2223 FM 1092 (Murphy Rd), Missouri City 77459 on March 26, 2022 @ 1:00. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the Needy Family Fund @ Horizon Baptist Church. Blessing to each of you, The Hays Family
✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢
Want the BEST DEAL for your Cable and Internet?
No Deposit! Call Us Today for a Quick Quote!
Worship Directory
844-560-9986
FORT BEND COUNT Y
BAPTIST CHURCH
HORIZON BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994
NO MORE BACK SURGERIES FOR ME! “I had chronic back pain, & I was in line for another back surgery when a friend recommended SLHC. That’s when I decided no more surgeries... let’s see if a Chiropractor can help. The docs know what they’re talking about! I saw great results with my whole body. I have no pain! My back feels great, my mobility has improved 100% & they even helped me with my plantar fasciitis. I highly recommend them & I’ve already sent some of my friends to them.” - Suzie Turner We have moved. See our new address
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
CHURCH OF CHRIST
STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 SUNDAY: Worship: 10:30 a.m. www.staffordchurchofchrist.org
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195
A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Sunday Schedule 8:30 am Blended Worship 9:30 am Sunday School for all ages 10:30 am Traditional & Contemporary Worship www.christchurchsl.org
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
EPISCOPAL
ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602 605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477 SUNDAY: 10:30 am Worship Holy Eucharist www.allsaints-stafford.org
Scripture of the week
167 Citadel Way Suite 500 Sugar Land, TX 77478
TURNER22STAR
FortBendStar • FortBendstar.com
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - ROMANS 15:13
THE STAR
PAGE 4 • Wednesday, March 23, 2022
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
SENIOR CARE
Health Care Designed For Seniors —Now In Your Neighborhood! Legacy Community Health has been providing high-quality health and wellness services in Southeast Texas for over 40 years. Our Senior Care team is trained to meet the health care needs of seniors—and help you live a healthier, fuller life.
Legacy Stafford Fountains at The Fountains Shopping Center 12540 Sugardale Drive Stafford, TX 77477 Phone: (713) 814 3655
NOW OPEN!
Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM LegacyCommunityHealth.org/SeniorCare
It’s easy to become a patient! Call us today to learn more, schedule a private tour or make an appointment with one of our caring team members. Legacy accepts Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and most HMO/PPOs. Eligibility Specialists are available to discuss sliding scale fees and potential programs to help lower the cost of health care services.
Start the New Year
HEALTHIER Safe, convenient primary care — at a location near you. At Houston Methodist, we provide personalized care for you and your family, including physicals, immunizations and preventive care. Many of our practices: • Provide in-person and virtual visits with online scheduling • Offer same-day sick visits • Are conveniently located close to work or home • Accept most major insurance plans You can be confident we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe, including requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all of our physicians, staff and employees.
houstonmethodist.org/pcg/southwest 713.394.6724
1093 59 Aliana Brooks Street
99 Sugar Land
8
6 Riverstone
Sweetwater Sienna Sienna Plantation
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, March 23, 2022 • PAGE
5
Tigers, Panthers baseball start district play undefeated The Tigers were much the same, taking down Landan Austin 4-1 on March 15 Kuhlmann before beating George Ranch 8-0 on March 18. Parker Witte threw a SPORTS complete game for the REPORTER Tigers (14-3, 2-0) with nine strikeouts in the win over Austin, while John Shimmin had three RBIs and Micah Dean Travis and Ridge Point had two hits of his own. are both traditional power After dropping the disprograms in the area, be- trict opener against Ridge ing responsible for three Point, Clements bounced of the five district baseball back with a 14-4 win over titles since District 20-6A Dulles last Friday. Jackson was formed back in 2017. Menough led the offensive Both squads have come charge for the Rangers out of the gate strong (2-12-1, 1-1), going 2-for-2 again this season, and with a homer while drivcontinued it last week as ing in three runs and district play got under- reaching base four times. way for the area’s baseball Garrett Leehan reached teams. The Tigers and three times with three Panthers both went 2-0 to RBIs, and Taylor Brown start 20-6A competition went 3-for-4 with a walk. off on the right foot. Elkins split a pair of Ridge Point had a pair games last week, dropof dominating victories, ping an 11-10 decision to beating Clements 14-0 on George Ranch on March March 15 in the district 15 before shutting out opener before taking Bush 10-0 on March 18. down Austin 14-4 last Braden Molfetto and LoFriday. JJ Kennett had gan Abadie had three hits three hits to pace the at- apiece for the Knights (9tack against Austin, while 5-2, 1-1) as part of a 13-hit Zion Stephens had a hom- outburst against Bush, er and Justin Vossos had while Braylon Payne hit two hits. Hunter Nichols his team-leading fourth struck out 11 hitters in homer of the season and five innings for the Pan- Nick Salas threw a comthers (13-2, 2-0 district) plete game on the mound. to earn the win over Cle- Molfetto also drove in two ments, while Vossos had runs in the loss to George four more hits and Travis Ranch. Vlasek had three hits of Tyler Donovan went his own. 3-for-4 with a double
Elkins’ Braylon Payne prepares to swing during a game. The Knights went 1-1 to open District 18-6A play last week. (Photo from Twitter)
and two stolen bases for the Bush Broncos in a 9-8 win over Dulles on March 15, while Andrew Medina also had three hits and two RBIs. Pedro Medina had six strikeouts on the mound in three innings against Dulles for the Broncos, who are 8-9 overall and 1-1 in district play. Dulles went 0-2 last week, but still got sev-
eral strong performances. Taelon Varlack reached base three times and drove in two runs in the loss to Clements, and Matthew Morales also had two hits. Varlack also had two hits and an RBI for the Vikings (2-11-1, 0-2) against Bush, while Morales had two hits with two RBIs and Ty Henry tallied three hits of his own. Ryan Dugas struck
out 10 for Austin in the loss to Travis, and Harrison Golden had a triple. Golden also doubled for the Bulldogs (4-10, 0-2) against Ridge Point, while Hampton Phillips and Will Liner each drove home a run. In Class 5A action, the Kempner Cougars split a pair of games last week, winning 3-1 over Lamar Consolidated on March 15
before losing 11-1 to Fulshear on March 18. Nathan Jacobsen was the star of the game for Kempner (76-1, 2-3) against Lamar Consolidated, driving in two runs at the plate while hurling a complete game on the mound. Peter Garcia and Drew Walker both doubled against Fulshear. The Stafford Spartans snapped a six-game losing streak with a 13-3 win over La Marque on March 16, moving to 4-11 overall and 1-1 in District 25-4A. Richard Starnes and Jeremy Payne had a double and RBI apiece for the Hightower Hurricanes in a 10-2 loss to Angleton on March 15. The Hurricanes also dropped a 4-1 decision to Lamar Consolidated on March 18, falling to 11-2-1 overall and 3-2 in district play. Softball The Elkins Lady Knights improved to 10-7 overall with a 17-0 victory over Alief Elsik on March 18 to win their third straight game. Willowridge split a pair of games last week, losing 17-0 to Rosenberg Terry on Feb. 15 before beating Marshall 30-2 on March 18. The Lady Eagles are 5-9 overall and 2-4 in District 24-5A. Stafford’s Lady Spartans, meanwhile, dropped a 24-7 decision to Bay City on March 14, falling to 116 on the season.
Stafford boys clinch 24-4A soccer title By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Stafford’s boys’ soccer team has been a traditional local power in recent seasons, and cemented their current stretch of district dominance again last week. The Spartans came away with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Columbia on Saturday to clinch the District 25-4A crown. It is the Spartans’ second district title in the last three seasons, and their fifth in the last seven campaigns. Senior captain Justin Zenteno scored a clutchsecond half goal to lift the Spartans, while Ivan Maldonado once again stopped every shot against him to secure Stafford’s fourth consecutive shutout to end the season. Stafford finished the season with a four-game winning streak, and ran their unbeaten streak to nine games. They have not lost since a 3-0 de-
feat to Needville on Feb. 14. The Spartans ended the regular season with a 15-54 overall record along with a 12-1-1 mark in District 24-4A competition. They will now await their playoff opponent out of District 23-4A. When the playoffs get underway, the Spartans will look to continue a stretch that has seen them win a playoff match in seven consecutive appearances. They have reached at least the regional quarterfinals in four of the past eight seasons. Other boys action Teams in Class 5A finished up their regular season last week, and multiple boys’ teams are headed back to the postseason. Kempner clinched its second district championship in the last five seasons courtesy of two wins last week, a 3-2 win over Hightower on March 15 and an 8-0 victory against Willowridge last Friday.
Sedat Kilicarlas and Jason Fierro each scored for the Cougars (17-2-1, 14-1-1), who finished off the season with five straight victories. Despite the loss, Hightower still locked up its first playoff berth in nearly a decade with a 14-7-5 overall record and a 9-5-2 mark in district play. Girls Kempner’s Lady Cougars are back in the playoffs for the second consecutive season courtesy of two wins last week to polish off the regular season, finishing as FBISD’s lone 5A girls’ playoff squad. The Lady Cougars (14-7-2, 113-2) beat Richmond Foster 4-0 on March 14 before taking down Willowridge 5-0 on March 18. Goalkeeper Madison Alexander stopped all three shots in the win over Willowridge. Chloe Dillahunty had two goals and an assist against Willowridge, while Ava Baley also found the back of the net twice. Baley
Staffords boys soccer team celebrates after a win last week. The Spartans recently clinched their fifth district championship in the last seven seasons. (Photo from Twitter)
also had a hat trick in the win over Foster, and Elizabeth Werts had a goal and an assist. This week’s playoff schedule: Thursday Class 6A girls bi-district Elkins at Katy Seven Lakes , 5:30 p.m., Legacy Stadium
Class 6A boys’ bi-district Clements at Katy Katy Seven Lakes, 7:30 p.m., Legacy Stadium Friday Class 6A girls bi-district Ridge Point vs. Katy Taylor, 7 p.m., Tully Stadium Clements vs. Katy, 7:30 p.m., Austin High School
Class 6A boys’ bi-district Austin vs. Katy Cinco Ranch, 7 p.m., Travis High School Bush vs. Katy Taylor, 7:30 p.m., Bush High School Ridge Point at Katy Tompkins, 7:30 p.m., Rhodes Stadium
T H E M O N T H LY
BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Contact John Sazma for advertising rates
281-690-4206 281-690-4200•• jsazma@fortbendstar.com jsazma@fortbendstar.com
THE STAR
PAGE 6 • Wednesday, March 23, 2022
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
C LASSIFIED
A DS
CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200
HOME IMPROVEMENT
CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US FIND Elite Construction DS A AT 281-690-4200 346-306-3627
C LASSIFIED
TRANE ON SALE!
AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING
281-492-3450
• Great Prices • Rebates! • Financing • Warranties XR 16 SYSTEM
www.myACandHEAT.com
$30 OFF any repair
LIMITED TIME! CALL NOW!!
cannot be combined with any offer TACLB019260E
♠
ACE TILE
Call 281-468-4250 anytime TACLA021957E (Licensed & Insured)
Call TODAY for FREE ESTIMATE
ou
Concrete Services
A
tin 5
12-773-62
Mike Schofield
Eddie Allum
281-217-5799
Locally owned and operated for over 25 years
72
Free
Free estimates
at home consultation for landscaping design. ($99 Value)
www.hhpstx.com | 832•641•8600
Install, repair, sell all makes/models of garage doors & openers
832-768-1897
alliancegaragedoorstx.com
residential/commercial
SERVICES
LEGALS
Misdemeanors $
CITY OF MISSOURI CITY TAROT CARD & CRYSTAL READINGS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Just Call Tammy
PURPOSE: A public hearing will be held by the Planning & Zoning Commission of Missouri City, Texas to receive comments for or against proposed amendments to the City of Missouri City Zoning Ordinance regarding massage establishments.
281.232.4436
p.p. 500 DWI • Theft
Drug • Assaults Divorce • Child Support
Attorney D’Angelo M. Lowe 7322 Southwest Frwy., Ste. 1065, Houston, TX 77074
832-953-LOWE (5693)
MATH/COMPUTER TUTOR Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics. Bill Stewart. BSEE 281341-1582.>+
LEGALS
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No. 2, Attention Mr. Jason A. Kirby, P.E., District Engineer, will be received at the District’s office, 2331 South Main, Stafford, Texas 77477, until 3:00 p.m. Local Time, Wednesday, March 30, 2022 and then publicly opened and read for “Brand Lane Water Plant No. 5 Generator Replacement” for Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No. 2 (Fort Bend County WC&ID No. 2), Fort Bend County, Texas.”
Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No. 2, Attention Mr. Jason A. Kirby, P.E., District Engineer, will be received at the District’s office, 2331 South Main, Stafford, Texas 77477, until 2:00 p.m. Local Time, Wednesday, March 30, 2022 and then publicly opened and read for “Construction of Stafford Run Water Plant Recoating” for Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No. 2 (Fort Bend County WC&ID No. 2), Fort Bend County, Texas.”
Scope of Work of the Contract includes, but not limited to, the removal of the existing diesel generator, enclosure, and concrete slab; installation of the new diesel generator, concrete slab, fuel piping, conduit, wire; site work, including miscellaneous grading. The plant facility is located at 208 Brand Lane, Stafford Texas 77477.
Scope of Work of the Contract consists of providing the necessary labor, materials, equipment, supervision, and plant to construct the Stafford Run Water Plant Recoating. The plant facility is located at 550 Stafford Run Road, Stafford Texas 77477 (See Key Map No. 569E).
Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivcastUSA.com.: search “Stafford Run Water Plant Recoating” Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications and plans for this project. There is NO charge to view or download documents. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project. The requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552, Government Code, may apply to this Bid and/or Contract and the Contractor agrees that the Contract can be terminated if the Contractor knowingly or intentionally fails to comply with a requirement of that subchapter.
YOUR
BUSINESS
Here
281-690-4200
281-690-4200
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Additional information is available for review. You may call 281-403-8541 or email the Development Services Department-Planning Division at planning@ missouricitytx.gov for further information.
Copies of the bidding documents are on file at the following locations:
See
PLACE YOUR AD HERE
Wednesday, April 13, 2021 at 7:00 pm Missouri City Community Center 1522 Texas Parkway (FM-2234), Missouri City, Texas
Each Bid must be accompanied by a bid bond or a cashier’s check or certified check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five-percent (5%) of the total amount bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided and provide the required insurance certificates within fifteen (15) days after the date Contract Documents are received by the Contractor.
FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Looking to Hire?
LOCATION/DATE: Public hearing on proposed changes in zoning regulations pertaining to massage establishments is scheduled as follows:
Bids received after the closing time will be returned unopened. A NON-MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. Local Time, at the District office (2331 South Main Street, Stafford, TX). Attendance by each prospective bidder or its representative at the pre-bid conference is NON-MANDATORY.
THE STAR ONLINE
FOR SALE
TREE TRIMMING & REMOVAL • LANDSCAPE DESIGN • PROFESSIONAL PLANTING
n 281-772-4 sto 4
New Roads, New Foundations, Patios, Sidewalks, Complete Driveways.
us
281-898-0154
59
H
MNB ENTERPRISES LLC • DBA CRITICAL AIR
FB Group: Elite
Exterior - Interior Painting / Sheetrock / Granite / Roofs / Pressure Wash Carpentry / Tile Work / Bath Remodeling Hardiplank Siding / Floors / HVAC Plumbing / Electrical
♠
Carpet • Remodeling • Ceramic Marble • Wood Flooring • Tile & grout cleaning & sealing • Laminate Wood Flooring • Granite Slab Countertops
www.criticalairac.com
Gary Garbs - Owner ggelite4u@gmail.com
Bids received after the closing time will be returned unopened. A NON-MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. Local Time, at the District office (2331 South Main, Stafford TX). Attendance by each prospective bidder or its representative at the pre-bid conference is NON-MANDATORY. Each Bid must be accompanied by a bid bond or a cashier’s check or certified check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five-percent (5%) of the total amount bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided and provide the required insurance certificates within fifteen (15) days after the date Contract Documents are received by the Contractor. Copies of the bidding documents are on file at the following locations: Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivcastUSA.com.: search “Stafford Run Water Plant Recoating” Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications and plans for this project. There is NO charge to view or download documents. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project. The requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552, Government Code, may apply to this Bid and/or Contract and the Contractor agrees that the Contract can be terminated if the Contractor knowingly or intentionally fails to comply with a requirement of that subchapter.
FORT BEND COUNTY WC&ID NO. 2
Keep up with news in Fort Bend Sign up for our newsletter at fortbendstar.com
FORT BEND COUNTY WC&ID NO. 2
GARAGE SALE? LET THE COMMUNITY KNOW! 281.690.4200
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
H JACKSON FROM PAGE 1 ernment has turned a corner. “People are getting along better,” Elackatt said. “Are we perfect? No, not yet. But once the city’s leadership team is in place, we’re going tohave a retreat with council and senior leadership. That’s something I’m looking forward to in April. There, I hope we can set boundaries and the tone for the city team going forward.” Both Jackson and Elackatt in conversations with the Fort Bend Star were circumspect in discussing the state of the city, saying it was still too early to make definitive claims. But they both agreed that their hope for the city involved stabilizing city leadership and giving residents reliable faces moving forward. “There’s been a lot of revolving doors the last couple of years,” Jackson said. “And the
H FRAUD FROM PAGE 1 cases don’t end up at the police department. And those cases involving phone scams are sometimes hard to investigate, she said. From a prosecutor standpoint, crimes involving elder fraud are typically treated the
H BRONCOS FROM PAGE 1 the bi-district round of the Class 6A playoffs later this week. “All the seniors have been working to get to this point (of a district championship),” said senior goalkeeper Aiden Yensen-Yee, who also spends some time as a striker for the Broncos. “We put in the hours, and this is just the result of all that hard work that we’ve done – it’s paid off. We’re just trying to take it one round at a time as we hopefully make it all the way to state.” More than meets the eye At first glance, the Broncos’ style is admittedly different from many teams. They scored just 35 regulation goals in 20 matches this season, and scored three or more
council has made clear they want that to stop. So, we’re trying to get things in the right place, so we don’t have all those issues – in two, three, four years from now, it’s going to be the same faces. We want to improve the process.” The city council in December unanimously approved hiring Jackson as the city’s next city manager, bringing an end to a search that began shortly after thencity manager Odis Jones was fired in a 5-2 vote in April 2021. The city manager spot in Missouri City had become something of a revolving door in recent years. Before Jones’ firing, the council also ousted Anthony Snipes from the position in February 2020 in a 4-3 vote. Bill Atkinson had been serving as the city’s interim city manager during the search that led to Jackson’s hiring. But in recent months, city leaders have grown optimistic that condi-
tions are more stable. Many 4-3 votes have since shifted into 6-1 and 7-0 votes, Elackatt said. And since his arrival, Jackson has gone about reorganizing the city’s administrative team to better aid the community, he said. “One thing that was obvious to me was the fact that our organization structure dated back to 2006, when the city had 160 employees and a population of about 35,000 to 36,000 people,” Jackson said. “Now, we’re way bigger, with just about 410 staff members. So, that structure wasn’t as conducive.” Rather than maintain an administration consisting of a city manager with two assistant city managers, Jackson instead created a true deputy manager and beneath that position three chief officers, he said. “The entire concept is meant to ensure we break down control, and everyone can stay more
focused on their departments,” Jackson said. Three members of the previous administration’s staff are no longer with the city, but everyone else has remained, Jackson said. In addition to Crain, Jackson brought on Paula Ryan and David Jordan and promoted Sedrick Cole from IT director up to chief information officer, Jackson said. The big hope is that this new organization will give city employees more time to interact directly with the community, Jackson said. Both Elackatt and Jackson were confident that, with more stable leadership, the potential of Missouri City with its diversity and culture would shine into the future, they said. “Missouri City is a great city,” Elackatt said. “It’s the most diverse in the county, and has a lot of potential. That’s what we should be working toward.”
same as all cases involving fraud, Brewer said. That is, it’s much easier to prosecute a case if someone shows a pattern of fraud, as opposed to an isolated instance. “If a person has a pattern of going up and down the block in a neighborhood where elderly people live,
telling them their roof looks bad and they need $20,000 to fix it, taking that money and never doing a thing – if they’ve done it to three or four people – you might be looking at a case of elderly theft,” Brewer said. Sometimes residents might have a civil rem-
edy available if someone wasn’t mentally alert to sign a contract, said Wesley Wittig, spokesperson for the district attorney’s office. But that’s hard to prove, he said. “You might have an unsavory business practice, but it might not be illegal,” he said.
goals in a game just four times. The reason for their success, however, is not offense – it’s the defense. On the flip side, Bush allowed just 20 goals overall and surrendered just 14 goals in 14 district contests – both of which were the second-lowest mark among District 206A squads. Yensen-Yee, a threeyear letterman for the Broncos, credited the mindset and fresh outlook on their style of play largely to Martinez-Gracida, who is in his first season as the head coach. It was a fresh start, he said, that has paid immediate dividends. “(Coach Martinez-Gracida) doesn’t necessarily try to train physically, he tries to train mentally with your technique,” Yensen-Yee said. “Soccer isn’t always physical – it’s about using your brain to
outsmart the other team. And this season, we’ve outsmarted teams in the way we’ve played.” The Broncos’ game is all about discipline. And it appears the team has fully bought in. “If you get beat by a fantastic goal, that happens every once in a while,” Yensen-Yee said. “But if you give one up because of a silly mistake, that’s the difference. We don’t make silly mistakes, and we try to make them beat us.” That has long been Martinez-Gracida’s outlook on the game, but he said the success of the 2022 season could not have happened without the leadership of captains such as Yensen-Yee and others. The Broncos have eight seniors on this year’s squad, many of whom have been in the program for multiple sea-
sons. “I’ve been incredibly lucky this year to have the captains that I do, because they lead by example,” he said. “That type of leadership makes everybody buy in – because if the people on top are doing their work, the people on the bottom do as well.” The work appears to have paid off, at least so far. The Broncos finished the regular season by winning their final eight matches to claim the district crown. “We always had the talent, but we were pretty raw in terms of discipline (at the beginning),” Yensen-Yee said. “You could tell at the beginning of the district season that we were a little bit shaky in terms of results, but once we got everything working together it started working
Wednesday, March 23, 2022 • PAGE
H TOWN SQUARE FROM PAGE 1 fronts will come online in Sugar Land Town Square, Ragan said. Included in that will be something the landlord hopes will draw visitors from across the region to Sugar Land Town Square, Ragan said. California-based Department of Wonder is set for a grand opening on April 23, and Rebees expects that might be transformational for the space, Ragan said. The 10,000-square foot facility will serve as a visual terminus for the entire area, Ragan said. The creative minds behind Department of Wonder have pioneered virtual reality entertainment and this
7
newest venture should be no different, Ragan said. Another popular arrival across from the Department of Wonder will be B.B. Italia, an upscale Italian restaurant, Ragan said. Construction on that project is set to begin soon, and owners hope to open the restaurant sometime in late summer, Ragan said. “With a lot of projects like Sugar Land Town Square, they used to be physically designed around retail that is no longer salient,” Ragan said. “People don’t shop at big box retail stores anymore. So, what takes over that space?” For those behind Sugar Land Town Square, the answer might lie with businesses like the Department of Wonder.
A visitor sits at a bench in Sugar Land Town Square last week. The minds behind the development are trying to adapt the space to meet the needs of 21st century retail shoppers. (Photo by Matt deGrood)
out pretty well.” One game at a time The Broncos’ program may have reached rare regular-season heights, but Martinez-Gracida and his players know that the real journey begins this week as they face the Taylor Mustangs in the first round of the playoffs. They took some time to celebrate the title over the break, he said, but now it’s time to lock in. “The mindset is simple – we won, and it was for that weekend,” MartinezGracida said. “Now, it’s done, and we’re on to the next step. Now, it’s a coin toss. Everybody can win one game – one mistake, and you’re done.” Yensen-Yee echoed his head coach. “You hope to make it as far as you can, but it’s all about taking steps,” he said. “…We kept taking those steps (to finish
For questions, call us at 281-690-4200 or email to : Jsazma@fortbendstar.com
the regular season), now we just need to take one more.” They team is fully bought into the culture and philosophy, Martinez-Gracida said, and he believes they’re on the precipice of what could turn out to be a season for the ages. And even though he knows every game is a battle come the postseason, he has complete confidence in his team and knows the talent he possesses – even if outside observers may not. “When I started working with these guys, I told them they have what it takes to be at least in the third round of the playoffs,” he said. “If we make it there, everything is open.” Follow Landan Kuhlmann on Twitter @ LandanKuhlmann
THE STAR
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, March 23, 2022
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Review: Stop by Brandani’s Nibbles & Sips:
for elevated lunch options
Kizuki Ramen and Izakaya opens in Katy
By Matt deGrood
By Landan Kuhlmann
MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar has long been a destination for county residents looking to celebrate a milestone or a place for the who’s who to dine in style. After a recent visit to try the Missouri City restaurant’s lunch menu, it’s not hard to see why the county staple has earned its reputation over the years. The restaurant offers a lunch menu that comes with your choice from several options for entrees, a house side salad or soup and a dessert. After taking some time to mull over my options, I settled with the fish of the day, which was f lounder on the day I visited, and risotto. All it took was one bite into the tender f lounder to send my taste buds into overdrive. The fish was perfectly seasoned and was f lavorful enough to make me pause and appreciate each bite. If the f lounder was the star of the show, the salad, risotto and dessert were the workmanlike forces in the meal. None of them quite reached the height of f lavor of the fish, but they were solid enough to let the fish stand on its own, while also not bringing the meal down. The $18 lunch menu is a bit pricier than I would normally spend on an average workday lunch,
There is a new Japanese ramen restaurant open in Katy. According to the company, Kizuki Ramen and Izakaya opened a restaurant in Katy earlier this month at 22330 Grand Circle Blvd. The company has 13 other U.S. restaurants in Oregon, Indiana and Washington, though the Katy restaurant is the company’s first Texas location. The restaurant’s website says Kizuki serves traditional Japanese ramen with a plethora of options, such as Garlic Tonkotsu, Tonkotsu Shoyu, Yuzu Shio, Hakata Tonkotsu as well as Spicy Miso, Chicken Shoyu and veggie ramen. Kizuki also serves original options such as Chicken Karagge – Japanese deep-fried marinated chicken with spicy mayo – as well as chilled tofu and a Japanese pork bun, a pork belly sandwiched in a bun with green onions and cucumber. There are also several kinds of rice dishes available for customers. Kizuki Ramen and Izakaya offers both dine-in and delivery. For more information on the restaurant and what they offer, visit their website at kizuki.com or call them at 281-783-9800. Toasted Yolk coming to Rosenberg later this year A Texas staple is opening a new Fort Bend
The fish and risotto is one of the options a ailable at Brandanis estaurant during a recent isit to the restaurant. (Photo by Matt deGrood)
but I will say that I greatly appreciated how generous the servings of each item were. You might be paying a bit more for the quality of Brandani’s food, but this isn’t a case where you might still walk away hungry. Finally, I’m not sure if I just got lucky with whoever answered my phone call to take my pickup order, but the service at Brandani’s was also excellent. The operator wasn’t pushy, but complimented several of my choices and recommended the bread pudding when I hesitated for a moment over which dessert to choose. He also told me he’d let the kitchen know to
wait for a few minutes before starting work on my meal so that it would be fresh and hot when I arrived (I made the call slightly earlier than the usual 15-minute drive away). Because of when I made it to pick up food, I didn’t have the time to dine at the restaurant, but if my brief stop there to pick up my order is any indication, I’ll have to return to give the full experience a shot. I think I overheard someone talking with a patron about Brandani’s recently finishing a renovation of sorts, and the place definitely had that well-kept appearance about it. All in all, I’d say Bran-
ine Bar, which impressed
dani’s more than lived up to its reputation.
Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar Address: 3340 FM 1092 #160, Missouri City Hours: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-9 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday Entrée prices: $18$50 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Alcohol: Yes Healthy options: Brandani’s salad ($16) Star of the show: Fresh fish and risotto Rating:
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR
i uki amen and akaya recently opened its doors in aty. (Photo from Facebook)
County restaurant later this year. According to the company’s Facebook page, the Toasted Yolk Café will be opening a location at 6726 Reading Rd., Suite 160 in Rosenberg in the coming months. When it opens, the Rosenberg spot will be the 19th Houston-area location for the restaurant and third in Fort Bend County, joining existing restaurants in Sugar Land (2210 Town Square Place) and Fulshear (6727 FM 1463, Suite 150). The Toasted Yolk will offer breakfast and lunch options for diners, such as omelets, specialty eggs, and pancakes as well as Rueben and BLT sandwiches, patty melts, and various types of soups and salads. It will also offer soft drinks along with coffee, wine, specialty drinks, and mimosas. Upon its opening, the restaurant’s website says it will be open from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. For more information, visit their website at thetoastedyolk.com. Follow @LandanKuhlmann on Twitter
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to 40 words and answer the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to jsazma@fortbendstar.com or mail to: Fort Bend Star, 14100 Southwest Frwy. Ste 230, Sugar Land, TX 77478
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. MARCH 1 - APRIL 19 NURTURING THE GROWING MIND WEBINAR SERIES P .E .A .C .E . ( http: / / pea c enurtureskids. org/ ) prov ides f ree “ N urturing the G rowing M ind” web ina rs f or pa rents/ c a regiv ers/ ea rl y c hil dhood educ a tors. T his 8 - pa rt onl ine workshop series wil l hel p y ou put y oung c hil dren on a positive learning and school trajectory. Offered on Tuesdays f rom M a rc h 1 st- A pril 1 9 th: C a l l 8 3 2 - 4 1 5 - 3 0 8 8 or em a il : pps4 pea c e@ y a hoo. c om . APRIL 3 CAR WASH FOR KIDS DOUBLING THE IMPACT! Sunda y , A pril 3 rd, Hope For T hree T een Huddl e a nd ov er 1 0 0 teen v ol unteers f rom a c ross the c ounty wil l rev up to ra ise a wa reness a nd a c c epta nc e during A pril , A utism A wa reness M onth. T he ev ent, presented b y Suga r La nd Ba ptist C hurc h wil l ta ke pl a c e a t C & C D enta l , 1 7 0 0 3 Southwest Freewa y in Suga r La nd. T eens f rom a rea sc hool s a re on ha nd to wa sh c a rs with a n E c o- Friendl y sol ution, f rom 1 0 : 3 0 a m to 2 : 3 0 pm . T he c ost is FR E E of c ha rge; howev er, dona tions a re wel c om e. Suga r La nd Ba ptist C hurc h is m a tc hing dona tions up to $ 3 , 5 0 0 ! W e’ re doub l ing our im pa c t! V ol unteer a nd sponsor opportunities available. For more information or to find autism resources, v isit: www. hopef orthree. org/ ev ents or c a l l 2 8 1 - 2 4 5 - 0 6 4 0 . THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES PRESENTS MUSIC FOR GOOD C om e j oin T he Sa nc tua ry Foster C a re Serv ic es a s we c el eb ra te our ex pa nsion into Fort Bend C ounty . E nj oy a f ree c onc ert, som e f ood truc ks, a nd a f a m il y f riendl y env ironm ent. I t wil l b e on A pril 3 rd f rom 5 - 7 pm a t the Suga r La nd T own C enter. C a n’ t wa it to see y ou there! APRIL 14
FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS MEETING M eeting, T hursda y , A pril 1 4 th, a t 1 : 0 0 p. m . , V enue R oom , Suga r La nd First U nited M ethodist C hurc h, 4 3 1 E l dridge R d. P rogra m : FBI SD Boa rd of E duc a tion C a ndida tes Forum . A rriv e ea rl ier to soc ia l iz e, sign in a nd pa y dues if y ou ha v en' t. A l l Fort Bend a nd Ha rris C ounty I . S. D . retired pub l ic educ a tors a re inv ited. M ore inf orm a tion, c a l l 7 1 3 2 0 6 -2 7 3 3 . ONGOING LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY W e enha nc e l iv es a nd strengthen c om m unities b y tea c hing a dul ts to rea d. W e need y our hel p. Litera c y C ounc il is a c tiv el y rec ruiting V ol unteer T utors to prov ide instruc tion f or E ngl ish a s a Sec ond La ngua ge ( E SL) Lev el s 0 - 5 , three hours a week. For m ore inf orm a tion, c a l l 2 8 1 - 2 4 0 - 8 1 8 1 or v isit our web site www. f tb endl itera c y . org JAM WITH SAM J oin Sa m G ric e a nd his f riends ev ery T uesda y N ight a t 6 : 3 0 pm a t First P resb y teria n C hurc h, 5 0 2 E l dridge R oa d, Suga r La nd, T ex a s. T he group pl a y s f ol k, c ountry , b l uegra ss, rel igious a nd pa triotic songs. C a l l Sa m a t 8 3 2 - 4 2 8 - 3 1 6 5 or the church office at 281-240-3195 for more information. THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY FOR MEN Suga r La nd First U nited M ethodist C hurc h, 4 3 1 E l dridge Road offers a Thursday Morning Bible Study For Men. This group is ongoing a nd uses a v a riety of studies throughout the year. The breakfast, coffee and donuts are free. Join us a ny tim e! T hursda y s, 6 : 3 0 - 7 : 3 0 a m in W esl ey Ha l l . C a l l the church office at 281-491-6041 or Mike Schofield at 2812 1 7 - 5 7 9 9 f or m ore inf orm a tion. SUGAR LAND AMERICAN LEGION
EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 35+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY 281-243-2344 281.243.2300
14090 S.W. Freeway Suite #200 Sugar Land, TX
(Direct)
(Main) • KenWoodPC.com
A m eric a n Legion Freem a n P ost 9 4 2 m eets the f ourth T hursda y of ev ery m onth a t the P ost f a c il ity , 3 1 1 U l ric h, Suga r La nd, T ex a s, a t 7 : 0 0 P M . A l l v etera ns a re wel c om e. P ost ha l l is a v a il a b l e f or renta l f or ev ents. C a l l 7 1 3 - 5 5 3 5 3 7 0 if interested. GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE G iv e a G if t of Hope one- tim e or m onthl y . Y our hel p prov ides a c c ess to thera pies a nd serv ic es c hil dren with a utism m ight otherwise go without. P l ea se c onsider Hope For T hree in y our E sta te, P l a nned, or Y ea r- E nd G iv ing. R egister now, or l ea rn m ore a b out ex c iting ev ents: www. hopef orthree. org/ ev ents DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED W eekl y c l a ss designed to hel p y ou understa nd a nd a pprec ia te the Bib l e b y giv ing y ou a b etter sense of the l a nd a nd c ul ture f rom whic h it spra ng. T he c l a ss m eets a t 9 : 3 0 a m ev ery Sunda y a t First P resb y teria n of Suga r La nd ( 5 0 2 E l dridge R d. ) . For m ore inf orm a tion c a l l 2 8 1 2 4 0 -3 1 9 5 EXCHANGE E X C HA N G E , A m eric a ’ s Serv ic e C l ub , a l wa y s wel c om es guests a nd is in sea rc h of new m em b ers! V a rious Fort Bend c l ub s ex ist a nd c a n a c c om m oda te ea rl y m orning ( 7 a . m . ) , noon a nd ev ening m eeting tim e desires. For m ore inf o, c onta c t M ike R eic hek, R egiona l V ic e P resident, 2 8 1 575-1145 or mike@reichekfinancial.com We would love to ha v e y ou j oin us a nd see wha t we a re a l l a b out! MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801 M eets the sec ond M onda y of ev ery m onth a t 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . , a t 2 7 0 1 C y press P oint D r. , M issouri C ity R ec C enter. Lunc h, educ a tion, a nd enterta inm ent. A l l seniors ov er 5 0 inv ited. For m ore inf orm a tion, c a l l 7 1 3 - 8 5 9 - 5 9 2 0 or 2 8 1 4 9 9 -3 3 4 5 . BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT V ol unteers a re needed to b e a rol e m odel , m entor a nd f riend to c hil dren with ex c eptiona l needs in the c om m unity . T ra ining, m il ea ge reim b ursem ent, ta x - f ree m onthl y stipend if el igib l e. C a l l toda y to hel p c ha nge the worl d, one c hil d a t a tim e in R osenb erg. For m ore inf orm a tion, c a l l 2 8 1 3 4 4 -3 5 1 5 .
Honored to be your choice for life insurance. LISA N SIMS, AGENT Monday - Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 10 - 2 After hours by appointment
See
11647 S Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com
Dine-In Open!
TAKE-OUT & CATERING
AVAILABLE
19 years
family owned and operated LUNCH SPECIALS HOME MADE TAMALES & TORTILLAS MARGARITA’S TO-GO!
SOUTHWEST FREEWAY 281.240.3060 12821 LasHaciendasGrill.com
YOUR BUSINESS Here 281-690-4200