The 02-22-23 Edition of The Fort Bend Star

Woman indicted for theft of COVID funds

After being indicted by a Fort Bend grand jury on February 6, a woman was arrested by Fort Bend County Sheriff's deputies for the alleged theft of $30,000 to $150,000 in COVID-19 relief and Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster funds, according to news release from the office of District Attorney Brian Middleton.

Robin Laschae Williams, 32, is currently free on $5,000 bond and has an initial court date set for March 29 in the 261st District Court.

The indictment is the most recent obtained by the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Division, in an effort to recover funds that were intended to assist legitimate Fort Bend County businesses to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, according the the release.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Inspector General investigated the case in conjunction with investigators from the District Attorney’s Office.

“COVID-19 relief programs were designed to lift up our community during crisis, and due to the number of people and businesses that requested funding, some deserving small businesses were unable to benefit to keep their businesses operating,”

District Attorney Brian Middleton said in the release. “Anyone considering similar schemes to steal government funds intended to assist citizens in need, should know my office will prosecute these offenses to protect our community.”

FEMA, a component of DHS, assists the public during disasters such as hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This arrest sends a

SEE THEFT PAGE 5

Drumming ensemble CELEBRATES Black History Month

See photos on page 6!

FBISD placing $1.2 billion bond on May election ballot

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Coming off a failed referendum in November that would have kept the thentax rate in place, the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in a special meeting Thursday called a $1.2 billion bond referendum for the May 6 election.

The bond is designed to fund new construction as well as rebuild some campuses, as well as provide

funding for long-deferred maintenance projects across the district.

The special meeting was held after the board postponed a vote on the bond at the end of a marathon meeting on Monday.

The district has not had a bond in five years, and as a result some of its 82 campuses are rated in “critical condition” due to outdated plumbing, roofing, electrical and HVAC systems, according to a FBISD news release.

“The board of trustees is mindful of its responsibility as stewards of taxpayer dollars, and it carefully considered the different bond options,” FBISD Board President Kristen Malone said in the release. “I am excited the board has taken the administration’s recommendation to bring a $1.2 billion bond to voters. This bond will fund rebuilding,

Proper remembrance

Meadows Place resident spruces up city hall with Eagle Scout Project

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Lucas Leal, a lifelong resident of Meadows Place, was looking for a final service project to complete his requirements to become an Eagle Scout.

The 18-year-old Dulles High School senior saw that many of the U.S. flags hanging outside homes his community were frayed or torn. As a patriotic young man, he decided the best thing he could do was assemble a box for people to drop off their old flags so the could be retired in the proper manner.

"To me, the flag has always represented free -

dom, the freedoms we have in this country," he said.

Leal has been involved in Scouting for many years, first as a Cub Scout and steadily moving up the ranks. At first, he said, he didn't set his sights on becoming an Eagle Scout, but as he learned new skills and earned more merit badges, the ambition gradually took hold. He had earned the required Eagle-level merit badges, such as camping, wilderness survival. and swimming, but deciding on a final service project had stumped him a bit.

After searching on the internet, the idea of a flag

retirement box seemed to be the perfect idea. He sent off for a kit box, and on January 14, he and several of his friends spent about five-and-a-half hours painstakingly assembling the box in front of City Hall. An extremely sped-up video of the full assembly process can be found on the city's website at cityofmeadowsplace. org/city-hall-flag-retirement-drop-box.

Sugar Land Council council to take up Imperial project

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Sugar Land City Coun -

cil on Tuesday was set to consider a plan to amend the city's land use plan to allow for the proposed redevelopment of the Imperial Char House and the surrounding area after the Planning & Zoning Commission reached a tie vote on its approval during its February 14 meeting.

Because the 4-4 vote at

the end a long and sometimes contentious meeting means that the proposed amendment failed, according to the rules of the commission, it will take a super-majority of City Council to overturn the decision. Since one council member, Nausahad Kermally, has recused himself on the matter, all but one of the remaining council members would have to vote in favor of the amendment to reach that threshold, according

to city spokesman Doug Adolph.

In December, the city announced that Houston based PUMA Development had developed a proposal that would transform the Imperial Char House, perhaps the city's most iconic building, into an office building with retail and food-and-beverage components. The Char House would be the first phase of the redevelopment of

Lucas Leal, second from right, and a group of his friends stand beside the U.S. flag retirement box they assembled outside Meadowls Place City Hall. Leal decided to create the box as part of his final Eagle Scout project. (Contributed photo)

Sugar Land City Council will again take up the proposed redevelopment of the Imperial Char House and surrounding area.

(Photo by Ken Fountain)

About 200 flags have been collected at the box outside Meadows Place City Hall since it was completed in January. (Contributed photo)

Whitbeck Williams

Fort Bend finishes strong at state swim meet

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

As the state’s best swimmers and divers converged on the Lee and Joe Jamail Swimming Center on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, several Fort Bend area athletes and teams showed their skills as being the best the state has to offer.

When the dust settled, Fort Bend County’s swimmers accounted for eight individual podium finishes – including two state champions – in Austin. There were also two relay teams to finish on the podium including a state title. Below is a full rundown of how each of the area’s local swimmers fared in Austin.

Class 6A Austin

The Bulldogs’ boys’ 200 medley relay team of Ivan Pidgirsky, Lloyd Gomez, Eri Qui, and Kyle Kulow was sixth in the consolation final with a time of 1:35.67. Their 200 free relay team of Pidgirsky, Qui, Kulow, and Gomez was also sixth in the consolation final after swimming it in 1:26.91.

Individually, Kulow was fourth in the 200 free consolation final, finishing in 1:40.41. Clements

Hayden Bellotti was the Class 6A state champion in the boy’s 100 fly over the weekend, setting a new state record by swimming the final

in 46.67 seconds. Belotti also finished third in the boys’ 50 free with a time of 19.99 in the final.

Elsewhere for the Rangers, Logan Brown took home the state crown in the boys’ 100 breaststroke and set a new Class 6A state record with a time of 52.86 in the championship final. And though he failed to defend his title in the 200 IM, the Texas A&M commit did finish second by swimming a 1:45.12 in the final.

Kayla Fu was the state runner-up in the girls’ 100 free, finishing in 49.62 seconds, and was also third in the 50 free with a time of 22.79 in the championship final.

The Rangers’ boys’ 200 medley relay team of Austin Pan, Brown, Bellotti, and Andrew Chen finished fourth in Austin with a time of 1:32.11 in the final. Meanwhile, their boys’ 200 free relay team of Brown, Pan, Chen, and Bellotti finished fifth by swimming the final in 1:23.69.

In the end, Clements’ boys’ team finished fifth in the state by accruing 131 total points, missing out on a podium spot by just 2.5 points. Ridge Point

Ethan Hunter finished 11th in the 1-meter diving by totaling 420.05 points. Class 5A Fulshear

The Chargers’ girls’ 200 free relay team of Avery Dillon, Emma Nowotny, Ellie Pais-

ley, and Kailey Kennedy was the shining star of the Class 5A meet for Fulshear, taking home the Class 5A state crown by swimming the final Dillon also had two individual podium finishes in Austin, finishing third in the girls 200 free with a time of 1:51.64 in the final and placing second in the 500 free final with a time of 4:58.83. Kennedy also had an individual podium finish, finishing third in the girls’ 50 free final after swimming it in 23.22 seconds.

Kaito Quiroz finished third in the boys’ 200 free consolation final with a 1:44.21 in the final, and sixth the 500 free consolation final with a time of 4:44.63. Paisley won the girls’ 500 free consolation final by swimming it in 5:10.49.

The Chargers’ boys’ 200 medley relay team of Gabe Pedracio, Ridge Waldroup, Brady Litchfield, and Cannon Steen were second in the consolation final in Austin, swimming it in 1:39.04. Their boys’ 200 free relay of Litchfield, Tyler Porter, Quiroz, and Steen won the consolation final with a 1:27.53 in the final.

Foster

The top team finisher at the meet for the Falcons was their boys’ 200 free relay team of Benjamin Schwank, Tanner McKay, Kyle Den Herder, and Caedmon Doherty, which earned a third-place finish in Austin after swimming a 1:26.09 in the final.

Individually, Adelaide Wil-

liford finished eighth in the girls’ 50 free final with a time of 24.52 seconds, and seventh in the 100 free consolation final with a time of 54.31 seconds.

Karleigh Niles finished sixth in the girls’ 1-meter diving by accruing 371.8 total points, and Elijah Baker was ninth in the boys’ 1-meter diving with 312.9 total points. Den Herder was sixth in the boys’ 100 fly consolation final with a time of 52.58 seconds, and Schwank was fourth in the boys’ 100 free consolation final by finishing in 47.75 seconds.

Live Healthier Longer.

The Falcons’ girls’ 200 medley relay team of Kinley Niles, Malea Tremaine, Clara McKee, and Kylie Kennedy was second in the consolation final after swimming a 1:51.99. Their girls’ 200 free relay team of Williford, Niles, Tremaine, and Kennedy were victorious in the consolation final by swimming a 1:40.61. Foster’s boys’ 400 relay team of Schwank, Den Herder, McKay, and Doherty also won the consolation final in 3:11.09.

Kempner

Elsewhere, Kempner’s Jack Boysen narrowly missed a

podium finish, winding up fourth in the boys’ 50 free with a time of 20.85 seconds in the final. Boysen was also fourth in the 100 fly consolation final after swimming a 51.97. Haley Finley was seventh in the girls’ 100 free final after swimming a 53.20 in the championship final and sixth in the 50 free with a time of 24.10 seconds.

The Cougars’ girls’ 200 medley relay team of Holly Finley, Linh Ton-Nu, Haley Finley, and Tammie Ma finished sixth in the consolation final by swimming a 1:55.03.

Fulshear High School's girls 200 medley relay of Avery Dillon, Emma Nowotny, Ellie Paisley, and Kailey Kennedy took home the Class 5A state title in the event at last Saturday's state meet in Austin. (Photo from Twitter)

Softball squads kick off seasons with tournament play

By Landan Kuhlmann

As the calendar prepares to flip to the spring, several area softball teams are already off and running in tournament play, with several squads making strong statements to open the season. One of the Class 6A leaders early on is the George Ranch Lady Longhorns, who are off to a 4-0 start for the first time in the program’s 10-year history. George Ranch defeated District 20-6A foe Clements 14-0 on Feb. 14 before sweeping through the Bayou Classic Tourna -

ment Feb. 16-18. Zaria Turner pitched a complete-game shutout with nine strikeouts in the circle in a 1-0 win over Prosper on Feb. 16.

Karrlauhn Deas, Jesyca Johnston, and Mariah Garner had three hits apiece in a 9-2 win over Vista Ridge on Feb. 12, with Garner and Kathleen Dolan driving in two runs each. Six players had multiple hits in the win over Clements led by Dolan’s four knocks, while Garner homered and drove in four runs.

Elsewhere in the area, Ridge Point took down Bush 17-0 on Feb. 14 before splitting a pair of games to Corpus Christi

Carroll (12-0 win) and The Woodlands (14-6 loss) on Feb. 16. Jade Uresti homered twice and drove in four runs for Ridge Point (2-1, 1-0 district) against Bush, with Alexandria Rezac fanning all nine hitters she faced in the circle. Nohea Anderson homered against Carroll, and Uresti tripled while driving in four runs. Bush rebounded from the loss to Ridge Point to go 3-1 in tournament play from Feb. 16-18. Kiersten Kyle had three hits while Dakota Maldonado drove in two runs in a 9-6 victory over Eisenhower on Feb. 17. Adrianna Rivera doubled and drove in two runs for the Lady Broncos

(3-2, 0-1) in a 15-6 win over Nimitz later that day.

Austin’s Lady Bulldogs endured a tough 2-4 result at the Ball on the Beach tournament Feb. 16-18, but did manage to cap off the tournament with an 111 win over Benjamin Davis on Feb. 18. Alyssa Carter had two hits including a triple and three RBIs for Austin (2-5, 0-1) against Benjamin Davis, while Amira Marfani and Charlotte O’Callaghan drove in two runs apiece. Zoey Zamora struck out five while throwing a complete game in the circle. Dulles went 2-4 at the Katy ISD tournament Feb. 16-18, though they did win two of their final three

COMPLEX NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS Treated in Sugar Land

games of the tournament. Kellan Ton had three hits and three RBIs in a 15-0 win over Alief Hastings on Feb. 18, and Makayla Wolfe struck out seven hitters in the circle. Sidney Burford homered and drove in four runs for the Lady Vikings (3-4, 0-1) in a 9-5 victory over Morton Ranch later that day.

Travis’ Lady Tigers got off to a tough start in the Katy ISD Tournament, going 2-4 in the tournament following a 13-1 win over Hightower on Feb. 13.

Two-time District 20-6A

Most Valuable Player Ariel Kowalewski homered four times for the Lady Tigers (3-4, 1-0) on the weekend, while Maddie Morris hom -

ered against Cinco Ranch on Feb. 16.

In Class 5A action, the Fulshear Lady Chargers are off to a strong start following a 5-1 showing at the Bayou Classic Tournament Feb. 16-18, scoring 46 runs on 49 hits in the tournament. Nicole Cambric had three RBIs for Fulshear (6-1) in a 10-0 win over Coppell on Feb. 16, while Rylie Holder held the shutout in the circle with four strikeouts. Ava Galaviz totaled five hits and four RBIs in wins over Summer Creek and San Antonio Warren on Feb. 18, while Holder also had 10 strikeouts in their 7-2 win over Summer Creek.

At Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land, our physicians collaborate across specialties to diagnose and treat common to complex neurological disorders. With innovative and advanced treatment options, we provide personalized comprehensive care — close to home.

Our team of physicians treats a variety of conditions, including:

• Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders

• Aneurysms

• Brain tumors

Multiple sclerosis

• Neuropathy

SCAN HERE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

• Parkinson’s disease and tremors

• Sleep disorders

• Spinal disorders

Stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA)

To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.274.7979

The Ridge Point Lady Panthers are among the Fort Bend softball squads that have gotten off to strong starts in tournament play in the 2023 campaign. (Photo from Twitter)

Fort Bend students earn honors in HLSR art contest

Staff Reports

Mia Huckman, a senior at Lamar CISD's Foster High School, has been named the 2023 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo School Art Grand Champion. This is Huckman’s fourth time to have artwork in the HLSR’s School Art Auction and the first time she has placed first, according to a news release.

She received this year’s honor at the HLSR's School Art Awards Ceremony on February 11 at NRG Center. Her painting, “Our Last Round Up,” was ranked number on out of 72 auction lots and 4,500 artwork pieces entered from school districts from across Southeast Texas.

Last year in 2022, Huckman was the 2022 School Art Reserve Grand Champion. Her painting,

“Partners in Time,” broke the record with a selling price of $265,000. It sold for $15,000 more than the Grand Champion painting.

Three other Lamar CISD student artists will also have artwork in the auction including Foster High School juniors Mia Caycedo and Hannah Horton, as well as Fulshear High School junior Trina Ha.

The HLSR School Art Auction is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 12 at noon and will be broadcast live on ABC Channel 13.

To see photos of the winning Lamar students and

their work, visit this site.

Fort Bend Christian Academy Junior Joana Liu wasalso recently named a 'Top Young Artist,’ and her piece "The Last Haul" was awarded as a ‘Top Work of Art’ by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Program, according to a news release.

Liu was selected along with 72 other students out of 4,000 entries to advance to the Grand Champion and Reserve Champion level of judging. She ranked 25th out of the 72. Joana and FBCA art teacher Ryan Baptiste attended the HLSR School

Worship D irectory

FORT BEND COUNTY

BAPTIST CHURCH

HORIZON BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994

2223 FM1092 • Missouri City, TX 77459 John Strader , Senior Pastor

Bible Study 9:30 am

Worship 10:45 am 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:00 pm AWANA/Youth www.hbctx.org

BRAZOS BEND BAPTIST CHURCH

BRAZOS BEND BAPTIST CHURCH - 979.553.3049

22311 FM 762 RD.-Needville, TX 77461

Dr. Doug Brooks- Pastor

Sunday School/Bible Study - 9:30am

Sunday Worship Service - 10:30am

Wednesday (Team Kids) - 7:00pm

Wednesday (Bible Study) - 7:00pm

Any Prayer needs call 979.553.3049

Special Events-Resurrection (Easter) Weekend www.bbbchurch.org

METHODIST CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888

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

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507

402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477

Stephen Higley, Preacher

Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Wednesday 7:00 pm www.staffordchurchofchrist.org

Scripture of the week

Art Program Awards Ceremony on February 11. Her artwork will now advance to the art auction, which will be held on

March 12 at the Hayloft Gallery during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

SUGAR LAND DANCERS “COWBOY UP” TO CELEBRATE

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE WITH STREET FESTIVAL PROCEEDS FROM THE LONE STAR SALUTE GO TO LOCAL CHARITIES

OnSaturday, March 4, 2023 the sta , students, and friends of Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School will proudly salute the Lone Star State with an outdoor festival entitled “God Bless Texas.” is one-day family friendly event is a high kickin’ tip of the hat to 187 years of Texas independence from Mexico.

Members of Sugar Land’s Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School will perform to Texas music on the outdoor stage surrounded by games, food booths, a petting zoo, crafts, play areas, auctions, and interactive fun. “It will be a wonderful event for all ages celebrating Texas Independence.” said native Houstonian Cookie Joe. e Texas Declaration of Independence was signed on March 2, 1836.

Although there is a charge for some activities, admission to the event’s music and dance is free and open to the public. Proceeds from the annual celebration will bene t the schools’ Outreach Ministries including Star of Hope Homeless Mission, Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Champions Kids Camp, Texana Center, and Hope for ree, an autism advocacy group.

Generous event sponsors include Keep Rolling Automotive & Southwest Domestics.

God Bless Texas will be held from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm at Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School, 1415 Highway 6 (1 mile north of Highway 59 by Lifetime Fitness). For more information contact Scott Arthur @ 713-824-6126.

- 1 SAMUEL 10:6

“The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you…and you will be changed into a different person.”

Since the, residents have been steadily dropping off their old and fraying flags. At last county, Leal said,

the entire 40-acre Imperial Market district, which originally the site of the Imperial Sugar Company, which gave the city its name.

Since that first announcement, details of the full redevelopment plan began to emerge in town hall meetings and city meetings. Many residents, particularly ones who live in neighborhoods nearest the Imperial property, immediately raised concerns over PUMA's proposal to build "up to" 660 multifam -

strong message to fraudsters. DHS OIG will

renovations, and upgrades at schools across the district.” Projects included in the bond are rebuilding older schools, constructing new campuses, and making major repairs at existing campuses, plus replacing older buses and adding a Smart Tag System to allow

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

he had collected about 200 flags. Leal and other members of Boy Scout Troop 1116 plan to hold an official retirement ceremony of the flags on Memorial Day. The ceremony involves

ily homes in the 40-acre site.

In early January, the council approved a $5 million package to assist PUMA in the Imperial Char House project, with the money distributed in phases as PUMA completes several "deliverables."

At the outset of the hourslong February 14 meeting, city staff discussed how the city is currently "built out," meaning there is very little undeveloped land that can be used for new housing stock. If the city doesn't act to attract new residents, particularly younger people, it will begin to economically stagnate. they

continue to work with our law enforcement partners – federal, state, and local – to investigate allegations of conspiracies to defraud the government,"

parents to track bus riders. The bond also includes IT systems and devices, campus security and a natatorium in the southeast area of the district.

“I am grateful to our board for taking action that will provide the voters with the opportunity to consider improvements to campuses, classrooms, playgrounds, technology and buses throughout

disassembling the flags stripe by strip and explaining out loud which each of the colors represent. According to the website of the American Legion, white stands for purity and innocence, red stands for

said.

During the hours-long meeting on February 14, commissioners heard from dozens of people who filled the expansive Council chamber, as well as comments that would submitted in writing. The vast majority of the comments were negative, with residents concerned primarily about the prospects of adding hundreds of multifamily housing units to the area.

Residents also raised concerns over increased traffic, especially at the nearby railroad crossing at U.S. 90. Some comments reflected misinformation that had

Dr. Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security, said. Middleton formed the Public Integrity Division

the district,” FBISD Superintendent Dr. Christie Whitbeck said in the release.

Approval of the bond would result in an estimated impact of $2.50 per month on the average home valued at $300,000.

Homeowners who qualify and properly file for an exemption because of their age (65 and over) or a disability, may be granted an

hardiness and valor, and blue stands for vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Leal said with his requirements fulfilled, all that remains is for a local committee of the Boy Scouts of America to sign off on

been circulating about the proposal, including that the apartments would be "Section 8" housing (that is, for people who receive assistance from the federal government), or that it would include an extension of the Metropolitan Transit Authority into the area.

Sugar Land is not part of METRO's service area.

City staff addressed one of many residents' main objections: the idea that an influx of people who live in apartments would translate into an increase in crime in the area. Assistant Police Chief Michelle Allen said the department had performed a statisti -

in 2019, not only to investigate fraud against government programs, but also to investigate and prosecute crimes committed by government

exemption that freezes the taxes on their residence homestead. For these homeowners, the approval of the bond will not result in an increase in taxes above the frozen amount. The district said it will reach out regularly dur -

his official paperwork for him to be an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the program and one that is highly honored throughout one's life. Aside from Scouting, Leal plays for the Dulles Vikings

cal analysis comparing levels of crime surrounding a 300-unit complex to a comparable number of single-family homes and found no appreciable difference.

The proposed 660 multifamily units would include not just apartments, but potentially townhomes, patio homes, duplexes and small-lot single family homes, staffers said.

During the public discussion, Mark Toon, CEO of PUMA Development tried to assure residents and the commissioners that the proposed multifamily units would be at market value, not low-income housing.

officials and employees. The division was expanded in 2021 through the American Rescue Plan Act to specifically target pandemic relief fraud.

ing the next few months to provide more details about the bond, educate residents and receive comments and questions.

“We learned that our community appreciates lots of information before they go to the polls,” Dr.

713-433-6421

14700 Almeda Rd

Houston, TX 77053

www.HoustonHumane.org

GRIZZLY

Grizzly went on a doggy day out with a pal, and this is what they had to say:

baseball time. He is currently applying for colleges, including the University of Houston, while also hoping he might be scouted for a baseball scholarship.

But the entire development requires up to 660 units in order to be financially viable, he said.

During the discussion among the commissioners, some peppered city staff and Toon about the concerns raised by residents, while others seemed more receptive to the proposal.

One commissioner, Chuck Brown, raised the possibility that if the PUMA plan is not accepted, no other comparable redevelopment plan would emerge before the long-dormant, circa-1926 Imperial Char House becomes unusable.

Theft in this case is a second-degree felony with a punishment range of 2 – 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

Whitbeck said. “We intend to share bond details early and often using various communication methods between now and election day so that voters are informed when they cast their ballots.”

1. He rides well in the car. Knew what to do when I opened the car door… jumped right in and made himself comfortable 2. This guy LOVES to snuggle! ALWAYS wants to be near someone and slept on the couch snuggled up against my mom last night. Total lap dog. Loves to jump onto the couch or recliner if someone is sitting there. Will nudge your hand if you are petting him and suddenly stop.

3. He appears to be potty trained! No accidents in the house. Didn't try to lift his leg on anything, either.

4. Not a shy or scared dog….. confidently walked into the house and acted like he had lived there for years.

5. Loves walks and has a high level of energy so will need to be walked several times a day. Pulls on leash.

6. He's like a cat when it comes to jumping. He can jump high. Fearless… can even jump onto a bar stool.

7. Loiters near cook when dinner is being made and tries to wait for people food but doesn't whine or bark. He's a polite begger :-)

8. Likes toys that make crinkle sounds, can chew them up fast.

9. No biting incidents although he'll "play bite" a little when he's actively playing with someone on the floor. He wasn't nervous around men…No biting or growling when he was sitting with me and my dad walked up to pet him. Sat with my dad a lot, too.

10. Will not try to run out the door anytime I come into or out of the house.

11. Never heard him bark!

Grizzly will make a great addition to someone's family. I'd suggest a home with older kids and someone who is home a lot. He'd be a great work from home "coworker" because he liked to sit in a desk chair next to me while I was working and didn't make a peep.

Black History Month celebration

Review: Texas Biergarten providing a solid Hill Country meal and atmosphere

in the middle of a school day, neither my friend nor I chose to imbibe, but it wasn't for lack of selection.

I haven't spent enough time in the Hill Country.

Growing up in suburban Houston, I did go to the region several times with my family, and we sometimes went tubing along the Guadulape River. I have a vague memory of going to a beer garden-style restaurant during one of those visits, but it was a long time ago. The last time I was in New Braunsfels was about a decade ago, when I again went tubing with some friends.

I have another memory, during my Navy days, of visiting a German restaurant in Thailand. But that's a whole 'nother story, as they say.

While I've been in Fort Bend County a few years, I hadn't known about Texas Biergarten along Highway 6 in Missouri City. With one my friends in tow, I visited it for the first time last week.

True to its name, Texas Biergarten's walls are lined with draft beer taps, almost too many to count. Since it was

Aside from that, the decor gives off a decidedly homey vibe, but with very tasteful appointments. The walls are lined with multi-hued wooden panels in angular patterns, and the open dining room includes both booths and picnic-style tables.

In the bar area are roughhewn American and Texas flags and a large illustrated map of the Hill Country. There's also a portion of the bar that resembles the living room of what could be a very nicely furnished cabin. If you squint hard enough, you might imagine you're enjoying a warm fire with friends.

The menu doesn't skimp on the style, either. On offer are a variety of hamburgers (including a veggie burger), as well as ribeye steak, grilled salmon, grilled and fried chicken, all served with a variety of side dishes.

For this initial visit, I felt I had to go with the full German experience. So I chose the Sausage on a Bun, with Miller's beer-skimmered Bratwurst on a pretzel bun, and a side dish of German potato salad. My experience with Bratwurst is rather limited, but what I had was excellent and filling. My friend equally en-

joyed his grilled chicken and vegetable dish, with mashed potatoes.

I can't say I'll make Texas Biergarten one of my regular stops. But if you're in the mood for some German-style home cooking in a relaxing atmosphere, it's a fine place to go.

Texas Biergarten

Address: 6302 Highway 6 Suite G, Missouri City

Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday;

11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday

Entrée prices: $12-$19

Kid-friendly: Yes

Alcohol: Yes

Senior discount: No

Healthy options: Veggie Burger

Star of the show: Sausage on a Bun

Rating:

The Sausage on a Bun struck just the right note for a Hill Country style restaurant. (Photo fby Ken Fountain)

Patrons of the Missouri City branch of Fort Bend County Libraries enjoyed a performance by the Houston-based Joy of Djembe Drumming ensemble on Saturday. Founder Gregg “Jebada” Powell and members played tribal rhythms of West Africa, along with some selections from the African diaspora in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as described the history and meaning behind the music. The event was part of Fort Bend County Libraries' celebration of Black History Month. (Photos by Ken Fountain)

MANAGING EDITOR

Ken Fountain

LIBRARIES OFFER INTRODUCTORY

HANDS-ON COMPUTER & TECHNOLOGY CLASSES

Missouri City Branch Library 1530 Texas Parkway (281-2382100)

Gmail Basics – Friday, February 24, 12:15-1:45 pm. University Branch Library, 10410 University Blvd, Sugar Land (281-6335100)

eLibrary 101 – Tuesday, February 28, 10:15 am. Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd, Missouri City (281-2382900)

Typing 101 – Tuesday, February 28, 2:00-3:00 pm. Mission Bend Branch Library, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road (832-4715900)

Introduction to FBCL’s Research Databases – Thursday, February 23, 4:00 pm. First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land (281-2382800)

How to Use the “Libby by OverDrive” App – Thursday, February 23, 11:00 am.

RICHMOND/ROSENBERG ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

Please join us on Thursday, March 2, at 7:00 p.m. We will be meeting in Room 105, the Gathering Room, at St. John’s UMC in Richmond. St. John’s is located at 400 Jackson Street. Alzheimer’s Association support groups are a safe place for caregivers and loved ones of people with dementia to develop a support system. Https://www.facebook.com/groups/ RichmondRosenbergAlzheimersSupport/ or visit https://www. facebook.com/groups/alztexprograms to learn more about the Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter’s Care and Support page, Questions may be sent to: gallowkj@earthlink.net. We hope you will join us on Thursday, March 2 at 7:00 p.m.

PARENT EDUCATION &

SUPPORT GROUP VIRTUAL EVENT

Parent Education & Support Group Virtual Event offered by The Arc of Fort Bend County and Child Advocates of Fort Bend

Thursday, March 9, 2023. 11:00 am Presentation, 12:00 pm

Parent Support Group. Topic: Netsmartz Internet Security for Parents. Learning ways to communicate with children about their online interactions will keep them safe. Presentation includes latest trends and apps to be aware of. Email Karri Axtell for Zoom link: kaxtell@arcoffortbend.org. Open to the Public. Free event.

BEND-HARRIS

FORT

RETIRED EDUCATORS TO MEET MARCH 9TH

Meeting Thursday, March 9th, from 1-3 p.m. at Sugar Land Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. in the Venue Room.

Program: Master Gardener, Larry Leising, on Summer Gardening. Ongoing community service project: bring peanut butter or monetary donations for East Ft. Bend Human Needs Pantry. Arrive earlier to socialize, sign in and pay dues if you haven’t already. Pick up your directory. All Fort Bend and Harris County I.S.D. retired public educators are invited. Website: http://localunits.org/FortBendHarris/ For more information, call 713-206-2733.

ONGOING

FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES’ ONLINE BOOK CLUB TO DISCUSS

“THE RISE OF WOLF 8”

Online meetings on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Free and open to the public. Registration is required; to register online www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” fnd the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling George Memorial Library (281-3424455).

LIBRARY’S PODCAST CLUB

FOCUSES ON SETTING NEW YEAR GOALS IN JANUARY

Each month features a different theme, along with a short list of podcast episodes to be discussed that can be found on the University Branch Library’s online calendar on the Fort Bend County Libraries website. Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call the University Branch Library 281-633-5100.

SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB

Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best ft for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 469-850-2424, dean7351@gmail.com. We’re a friendly group that meets once a week for lunch.

FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB

Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND (in the Chapel) 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 FREE and Open to the Public! We welcome everybody! If you play accordion, beginners to professional and would like to play Call, Text or email: Vince Ramos Cell: 281-204-7716 vincer.music@gmail.com

FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE

LEAGUE RECRUITING NEW

MEMBERS FOR 2022-2023 YEAR

To join, the membership application can be accessed at https:// www.fbjsl.org/join/how-to-become-a-member/. FBJSL will also be hosting multiple virtual and in-person recruitment events over the summer where potential new members can learn more about the League. Information regarding attending these events is available at www.fbjsl.org or on the FBJSL Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortBendJuniorServiceLeague/.

LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY

We enhance lives and strengthen communities by teaching adults to read. We need your help. Literacy Council is actively recruiting Volunteer Tutors to provide instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL) Levels 0-5, three hours a week. For more information, call 281-240-8181 or visit our website www. ftbendliteracy.org

JAM WITH SAM

Join Sam Grice Tuesday evenings at 6:30 for a casual evening of music. We play a variety of music including bluegrass, country, gospel and some western. We request acoustic instruments only please. We welcome both participants and music lovers who enjoy listening to good live music. There’s no charge and we welcome beginners and gladly offer gentle assistance. We meet at First Presbyterian Church, 502 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land. Please call Sam at 832-428-3165 for further information.

THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY FOR MEN

Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Road offers a Thursday Morning Bible Study For Men. This group is ongoing and uses a variety of studies throughout the year. The breakfast, coffee and donuts are free. Join us any time! Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 am in Wesley Hall. Call the church offce at 281-491-6041 or Mike Schofeld at 281-217-5799 for more information.

GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE

Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving. Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events

DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL

CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED

Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195

EXCHANGE

EXCHANGE, America’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@ reichekfnancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!

MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801

Meets