The 05-31-23 Edition of the Fort Bend Star

Fort Bend libraries offer “The Wonderful World of Bubbles” this summer

Fort Bend County Libraries invites families with children of all ages to a fun, interactive

Spring woman sentenced to 22 years for participating in 2019 Stafford hotel murder

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

A Fort Bend County jury earlier this month convicted a Spring woman of murder and sentenced her to 22 years in prison for her participation in the shooting death of a man in the parking lot of a Stafford hotel on Nov. 11, 2019, according to prosecutors. The jurors heard evidence that Jenise Leann Spruiell, 29, drove to the parking lot in

order to lure Cameron Deal outside his hotel room as part of a plan to retaliate against him for an incident in which Deal was implicated in an aggravated robbery several days earlier.

When Deal emerged from his room, a second car appeared in the parking lot and another person emerged and shot him several times before he fell to the ground. He died at the scene.

Using evidence from records, communications and surveillance video, Stafford

police detectives identified Spruiell as the person who acted to lure Deal out of his room so that the shooting could take place. The shooter and other participants in the killing remain unidentified, according to prosecutors.

“This was a hard case tried on circumstantial evidence,” District Attorney Brian Middleton said in a press release. “But let this be a warning to those who would break the law where there is no witness. If the evidence is convincing, our

highly-skilled prosecutors will hold you accountable.

You are best off just not breaking the law.”

Spruiell must serve half of her sentence before she can be considered for parole. The case was tried in the 268th District Court before Presiding Judge Steve Rogers.

Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact the Stafford Police Department at (281)261-3950 or Fort Bend Crime Stoppers at (281) 342-8477.

Jenise Leann Spruiell, 29, was convicted and sentenced to 22 years in prison for participating in the shooting death of Cameron Deal in 2019. Photo courtesy Fort Bend District Attorney’s Office

Audience pays homage to fallen at Sugar Land Town Square

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

While it seemed that the drizzly weather might dampen enthusiasm, a large crowd of several hundred people filled the plaza of Sugar Land Town Square Sunday evening for “A Night to Remember,” making this year’s Memorial Day, which honors U.S. service members who have died in the line of duty.

Presented by The Exchange Clubs of Texas and Louisiana, the second annual event was by turns somber and celebratory, filled with patriotic songs, a dance performance, and speeches by veterans. The Fort Bend Star served as media sponsor of the event.

As the late afternoon sun began to go down, the plaza

was only sparsely populated, but as the start time of 7:30 p.m. approached, a diverse selection of people had gathered on the lawn. The Fort Bend Brass, an ensemble made up of musicians from the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra, warmed up the crowd with classic patriotic tunes.

Among them were Ray and Debbie Routhier of Needville. Ray served in the 4th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, deployed to Germany in the 1970s.

“I’ts just important to come out and pay respect to the ones who didn’t come back,” he said.

Longtime Houston-area radio personality Scott Arthur, who now works with the Star of Hope Mission, served as emcee for the evening.

“We’re her to celebrate our diverse community, and pay

tribute to our lost Americans,” he said in his introductory remarks.

The Sugar Land Police Department’s honor guard posted the U.S. and Texas flags.

Local singer Rey Paulino, accompanied by guitarist Dieter Scholz, performed a stirring rendition of the “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The duo would perform several other songs throughout the evening.

Voices of Sugar Land, a group of young singers from Sugar Land Baptist Church, performed a series of classic American songs, including “This Land is Your Land,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” and “Grand Old Flag,” adding some numbers from the modern hit musical Hamilton, about the founding of the nation.

Bill and Kim Nash, Gram-

my-award winning Nashville musicians and songwriters, next sang a series of songs that emphasized faith.

Perhaps the highlight of the evening were brief speeches by Xanthia Baptiste, a 15-year Army veteran (now serving in the U.S. Army Reserve) who lives with her children in Stafford and owns a small business focused on mental health services, and Ferrel Bonner, another Army veteran who retired after 20 years as a military intelligence officer and now lives in Missouri City. Both spoke movingly about the sacrifices made by veterans, in particular who lost their lives.

Ballet Grace, a group of young dancers from Sugar Land-based Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School, performed a

lovely dance along the steps of Sugar Land City Hall. The evening was capped off by Scott Arthur reciting the lyrics of the classic Johnny Cash song “Ragged Old Flag.”

On Monday, the official Memorial Day, (after the Star’s print deadline) there were other events around the area. Fort Bend County Judge KP George will host a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Historic Fort Bend County Courthouse, featuring members of VFW Post 3903 and the All Glory Honor Guard and a wreath-laying

The city of Sugar Land hosted its annual ceremony at Sugar Land Memorial Park, with featured speakers retired Brigadier Gen. Dave Van Kleeck and Marine Corps combat veteran Brandon Harris.

Nonprofit coalition leaders provide update on homeless shelter effort

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend County individuals and families struggling with homelessness will soon have a new location to offer shelter after a coalition of nonprofit organizations begins work on a facility in Rosenberg.

At its May 23 meeting, Fort Bend Commissioners Court heard from leaders of the coalition, which has been collectively working to address the growing issue in the county for several months.

During the public comments portion of the meeting, Fulshear Mayor Aaron Groff, who also serves as executive director of the nonprofit organization Abigail’s Place, provided an update on the project, which has been in discussion in Commissioners Court for several months.

Commissioner had earlier dedicated some funds from the 2020 American Rescue Plan Act toward the effort.

Groff began by thanking the commissioners for their interest in committing county dollars toward the effort, although a vote on the matter was postponed. The agenda item on which the nonprofit leaders were speaking - which would transfer $5,909,544 in the county’s American Rescue Plan Act funds into a contingency fund toward the project - had previously been pulled from the meeting agenda to be considered at a later date.

“I am thankful that we live in a county that respects the dignity and needs of our residents,” he said.

Groff said the coalitionwhich also includes Attack Poverty!, the George Foundation, Parks Youth Ranch, and the Henderson-Wessendorff Foundation - is under con-

tract for the purchase of a 3-acre property in “the heart of Rosenberg.” He said the coalition plans to move forward on developing a housing and family services center at the property.

Groff said the coalition is working to secure additional

funding from the state government and other entities to keep the program sustainable once it begins operating. The group is also nearing the point where it will begin “critical hires” to administer the facility once it’s completed.

“We are committed to pro-

Sugar Land neighborhood gets new pump in time for hurricane season

Staff Reports

A Sugar Land neighborhood where nearly 600 homes flooded during Hurricane Harvey now has a massive new pump working to protect its residents and their homes, just in time for the start of the 2023 Hurricane season.

The pump moves 150,000 gallons of water per minute, protecting Sugar Land's Riverstone neighborhood. It works alongside a pre-existing pump that moves 80,000 gallons of water per minute.

Levee Improvement Districts 13 and 15 worked together on the $9.1 million project, their most significant major capital improvement for flood protection for Riverstone since Hurricane Harvey.

A ribbon cutting at the Steep Bank Creek Pump

Officials held a ribbon-cutting at the Steep Bank Creek Pump Station in Fort Bend County's Precinct 3 commemorating the project's completion on Friday. Courtesy Fort Bend County Precinct 3

Station in Fort Bend County's Precinct 3 commemorated the project's completion on Friday.

“Safety and security are critical priorities for me and my team,” Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers said in a press release. “Hurricane Harvey reinforced

the importance of our levee systems and prompted these improvements, which were completed without raising taxes.”

In 2017, the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey resulted from unprecedented rainfall and coincidental flood

levels for the Brazos River.

The Steep Bank Creek Pump Station had a total capacity to pump 80,000 gallons of water per minute. Today it can pump 230 gallons of water per minute, enough to have kept Riverstone from flooding during Harvey.

viding a holistic approach to flourishing by providing safe, secure, and accessible housing and supportive services in Fort Bend County,” he said.

Shannon Stavinhola, executive director of Parks Youth Ranch, a Richmond camp for abused and neglected children, told the commissioners that the other piece the group focuses on is the education of youth dealing with homelessness. Two of the youth served by the ranch recently graduated from Lamar CISD, including one who lived in a homeless shelter in downtown Houston was was commuting to the district.

“He had the love and support of his counselors and teachers and administrators to make sure that he had everything that he needed to get finished. And we were able to bring him home to Fort Bend County and he walked

the stage,” she said. Another student, she said, had been “in the system” since the age of two. When she first made contact with Parks Youth Ranch, she was two years behind in school, but was able to graduate on time. Both students are planning to pursue post-secondary education, Stanvinhola said.

Brandon Baca, CEO of Attack Poverty!, a faith-based group based in Stafford, said there are thousands of families in Fort Bend County are dealing with the prospect of homelessness.

“We won’t continue to look away. It’s what we do every day. We step up and support each family with care and dignity. In this collective effort, we want to continue to do that. It’s just the right and important thing to do,” he said. The commissioners court is expected to take up the matter again on June 13.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce to host State of Meadows Place talk

On Thursday, June 1, from 11:30-1 p.m., the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host Meadows Place Mayor Charles Jessup in a “State of the City” talk.

Jessup has been mayor of Meadows Place, which this year turns 40 years old, for 15 years. During his talk, he will discuss the history of the one-square-mile city, how the landscape around it has changed over the years, and how the city has attracted new business despite having limited available land.

Staff Reports Meadows Place Mayor Charles Jessup will give a “State of the City” talk at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce on June 1. Courtesy City of Meadows Place

He will also give an economic forecast including infrastructure, construction projects, and notable uses of bond money and grants.

The luncheon discussion will take place at the Cham-

ber offices, 445 Common Green Blvd., Sugar Land. For more information and to register, visit fortbendchamber.com.

Space Cowboys sting Bees in Salt Lake City

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

It’s been a slightly rough go of things for the Sugar Land Space Cowboys in recent days, but they’re hoping last week’s hot finish is the start of better things to come.

Last week, the Space Cowboys took four out of six games from the Salt Lake City Bees to right the ship after losing five of six games to the first place Oklahoma City Dodgers in the previous series. With the series win, the Space Cowboys improved to 22-28 on the season, and currently sit in fourth place in the Pacific Coast League’s (PCL) East division entering play this week.

The Space Cowboys’ offense was on a bit of a roll last week, averaging 5.8 runs per game during the series win and scoring at least five runs in four of the series’ six games with a high of 11 runs during a May 26 victory.

Catching prospect Korey Lee – the Astros’ No. 5 prospect according to MLB Pipeline –led the offensive charge for the Space Cowboys last week, going 8 for 22 with three doubles and three RBIs over the course of the week while consistently setting the table for the rest of the lineup. Infielder Joe Perez – the Astros’ No. 14 overall prospect – also had a strong week by going 7 for 15 with two doubles and three RBI’s, while shortstop Dixon Machado went 6 for 15 with a home run and five RBIs. The offense was also helped by those consistently setting the table at the top, with David Hensley reaching safely in 10 of 21 plate appearances and Grae Kessinger reaching 10 times in 25 plate appearances to go along with a home run and

four RBIs.

Sugar Land was also buoyed by a pair of strong standout pitching performances last week. Ronel Blanco earned the win by pitching 5.1 shutout innings with nine strikeouts and just two hits allowed in an 11-2 victory on May 26, while Nick Allgeyer allowed just one run in six innings with six strikeouts during the Space Cowboys’ 4-3 win on May 25.

Matt Ruppenthal had a pair of scoreless outings in relief last week, as did Enoli Paredes. Austin Hansen picked up a victory in relief on May 23, then had seven strikeouts in 3.1 innings to earn a save on May 28. The Space Cowboys had Memorial Day off on Monday, and were slated to begin a six-game road set against the Round Rock Express on Tuesday.

Houston Symphony to perform at Willowridge HS on

Staff Reports

The Houston Symphony invites the Fort Bend ISD community to attend its free summer concert at Willowridge High School, 16301 Chimney Rock Rd., June 7 at 7:30 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend.

Jacob Joyce, currently serving as the assistant conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the resident conductor of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and the music director of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra, will lead the program. Cuban-born violinist Rainel Joubert, a communityembedded musician with the Houston Symphony, will be the featured soloist.

The program will feature works by Arturo Márquez, Gioachino Rossini, William Grant Still and Florence Price, John Williams, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and more.

Guests who arrive 45 minutes early can enjoy family-friendly musical activities including the Instrument Petting Zoo where they can try out various musical instruments.

For more information, including the full program, visit houstonsymphony.org.

June 7

Last week’s scores

Fort Bend libraries to

books to newborns during Children’s Book Week

Staff Reports

Fort Bend County Libraries will continue its annual tradition of welcoming newborns to the wonders of books. Every Fort Bend County baby born during FBCL’s Children’s Book Week – June 4 through 10, 2023 – may receive a special baby book bag, courtesy of the Friends of Fort Bend County Library.

Each bag contains a book, a bib, a special certificate, a list of suggested reading for children, and information on parenting and on library services. These bags represent the library system’s commitment to providing library services for county residents throughout their lives, beginning at birth.

“We hope to start every child born in hospitals in Fort Bend County on a successful road to life-long learning,” Susan King, FBCL Coordinator of Youth Services, said. “We distribute the baby book bags to babies born during that week at area Fort Bend County hospitals, but ALL Fort Bend County babies who are born during the week of June 4 through 10 are eligible to receive one, while supplies last.”

Families of Fort Bend babies born at other locations during this period should call the

Fort Bend County Libraries will welcome newborns to the wonders of books. Every Fort Bend County baby born during FBCL’s Children’s Book Week. Courtesy Fort Bend County Libraries

Youth Services department, at 281-633-4762, to receive their book bag, while supplies last.

Not only is reading to a child a wonderful opportunity for bonding between parent and child, it has also been shown to stimulate brain development. Even the youngest baby can benefit from the chance to develop eye focus by looking at the page of a book, while being comforted by the familiar voice of a parent. Reading aloud to children exposes them to the sounds and cadences of a human voice, resulting in an earlier and stronger grasp of vocabulary skills.

Helping children develop early-literacy skills is a major goal for FBCL. Parents are

encouraged to register their children for FBCL’s annual “Summer Reading Challenge.”

Children from infancy through school-age earn rewards for the number of books they read (or are read to them) during the summer.

Parents can register their child for the Summer Reading Challenge by going to the FBCL website, clicking on the “SRC Sign-Up image, and using the link for the Beanstack app to sign up. Easy-to-use online reading logs are available.

For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).

Ronel Blanco Space Cowboys. Photo from Twitter

offer free

Cuban-born violinist Rainel Joubert, a community-embedded musician with the Houston Symphony, will be the featured soloist at a free performance at Willowridge High School on June 7. Courtesy Houston Symphony

Contemporary Handweavers of Texas coming to Sugar Land on June 2

By Mitch Cohen

Joey Barnes brought the Contemporary Handweavers of Texas (CHT) to my attention recently. CHT is a non-profit founded in October 1949 and promotes interest in handweaving and related crafts.

The last time Joey Barnes’ name appeared in “Art Valet” was February 2015, when she

was part of an artist group that created polymer clay jewelry. Barnes is still creative, but she’s (obviously) picked up weaving, and as I wrote in 2015, “Joey Barnes is the type of person that pushes the envelope in everything she does.”

Beginning Friday, June 2, Handweavers from all over Texas will gather in Sugar Land for their biannual meeting, exhibit and Member Sale of handwoven goods. The public can enjoy the member

sale, exhibit and vendor hall which has offerings of fiber, yarn, tools and baskets, just to name a few.

This year’s conference theme is “Nothing But Blue Skies,” which will “celebrate time’s traditions, the essence of weaving and its storied history, and to embrace its future,” according to the event website.

The member sale and vendor hall hours are Friday, June 2, 1 – 5:30 p.m. and 8 – 10 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 9 – 5 p.m.

The entire event takes place

Discover Downtown Rosenberg's free concert series begins June 2

Staff Reports

Discover Downtown Rosenberg is presenting its free Friday night Summer Concert Series at Water Tower Square beginning June 2.

Residents are invited to bring a blanket or chair to listen to the sounds of local and regional live bands.The concerts take place from 48 p.m. on the first Friday of each month and feature performances from different musical genres:

Friday, June 2 – Mi Mariachi Band (Mariachi Music) 4-8 p.m.

Friday, July 7 – The Horizon Band (Country Music) 4-8 p.m.

Friday, August 4 – The Jam Band (Rock Music) 4-8 p.m.

Food trucks will be on-site with tasty treats available for purchase and several of our downtown restaurants will be serving up great food as well. For more information, visit rosenbergtx.gov or call 832595-3301.

at Marriott Sugar Land, Ballroom VI + Veranda Boardroom (2nd level), Sugar Land Town Square, 16090 City Walk. For more information: (832) 767-5441, email weavetexas@ gmail.com or visit weavetexas. org.

Cohen writes Art Valet, an arts column in our sister paper The Leader, and is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market and The Market at Sawyer Yards. Find him at ArtValet.com.

'Orion' helps kick off Fort Bend County Libraries Summer Reading Challenge in June

Staff Reports

Fort Bend County Libraries will welcome the Sugar Land Space Cowboys’ mascot, Orion, who will help launch FBCL’s annual Summer Reading Challenge at several locations in June.

Families with children of all ages will have an opportunity to meet Orion, take photos, hear about the Sugar Land Space Cowboys minor league baseball team, and sign up for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge!

“Meet & Greet” events will take place at the following locations:

June 8 – 3:00-4:00 pm

– Mission Bend Branch Library (8421 Addicks Clodine Road)

June 12 – 2:30-3:15 pm –

University Branch Library (14010 University Blvd, Sugar Land)

June 21 – 2:00-3:00 pm

– Albert George Branch Library (9230 Gene Street, Needville)

FBCL’s annual Summer Reading Challenge encourages reading among children from birth and up, as well as

‘Orion’ will help kick off the Fort Bend County Libraries Summer Reading Challenge in June. Courtesy Sugar Land Space Cowboys

teens and adults. “All Together Now” is the theme for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Readers of all ages can earn rewards based on the number of books they read or time they spend reading, and children can participate in a variety of fun and exciting programs at the libraries in

June and July.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us) or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734) or the branch libraries.

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

METHODIST

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888

A United Methodist Community

3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479

Rev. Dr. Daniel Irving, Senior Pastor

Sunday Schedule 9:30 am Blended Worship 9:30 am Sunday School for all ages 11:00 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.staffordcoc.com

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195

502 Eldridge Rd. -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

713-433-6421 14700 Almeda Rd Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org

NELLY

Hi! My name is Nelly and I am a 2 year old cat who LOVES to cuddle! My favorite hobbies are taking long naps and eating yummy treats. I am looking for my forever snuggle buddy!

I am a very playful and adventurous cat who is always ready to have fun! Come visit me today at Houston Humane Society and meet my loving personality! ADOPT NELLY!

is in need of medical treatment. I am not having a baby. Wait. Here comes a nurse. “Just taking your temperature.” Fortunately these days they just stick a dull plastic needle in my mouth. Be thankful for medical science. Where was I? Oh, yes. Hospitals. They operate, so to speak, 24/7 Christmas and Super Bowl included, with an army I refer to as “nurses” since some are and some are not: they are also technicians, lab workers, cleaners, X-ray

types and waiters. Once every January an actual doctor comes by, looks at my chart, asks a few questions, nods and leaves.

Everyone is cheery and helpful, but I could not work in a hospital. Patients keep hitting the Help button so some kind soul can rush in and scratch their back or move their pillow. At 3 a.m. they slightly knock on the door and enter to take my blood pressure, give me a pill or, upon demand, scratch my back.

Here comes a nurse who says, “Time for your Quilatain.” There must be a company whose job it is to come up with names for medicines. Like those which advertise on TV. “Be sure to ask your doctor for XXtyztcon” or, “Feeling tired and depressed? Then you need Nycoggatrine.” What she is feeding me could easily be cocaine or rat poison. How am I to know? I swallow a pill about the size of what Cristian Javier was throwing last night in Minute Maid Park. Taken with a gulp of water. Trying to swallow water while

THANK YOU FOR READING

832-860-1054

May 01, 2023

lying on your back brings on a sensation. The medical term is “massive coughing.”

Hospital rooms today look something like a MAS*H operating room. I count three computer screens, some metal boxes and lots of buttons. There are even buttons on both sides of the bed to make it go up or down or, I suppose, sideways. Hopefully there is not an ejection button. All are connected by wires. I must have a mile of wires in this room. Then there is this paddle in my bed with – one guess – buttons. It allows me to turn on the TV or summon a nurse. The TV carries channels from all known stations except the one that shows the Astros. I suspect the engineer who installed this gizmo is a Texas Ranger fan. You know the old line about, at a hospital, they wake you up to give you a sleeping pill? At precisely 3:45 a.m. last night or this morning, sure enough, that’s what happened to me. I once visited a hospital late at night and asked the nurse if he disliked working 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. since every

study shows our bodies need to sleep at night. “Not at all,” he said. “At night the halls are empty of visitors. No flowers, teddy bears or balloons. The patients are asleep. I get off in the morning, eat a big breakfast and sleep all day. At night I go out to dinner with friends, have maybe a half glass of wine, and go to my job.”

You may have seen the movie, “Airplane!” It was undoubtedly the dumbest, silliest and funniest movie around. One exchange was when a doctor says a passenger is ill and needs to go to a hospital: Flight Attendant: “A hospital? What is it?” Doctor: “It’s a big building with patients.” I am currently in a big building with patients, lots of patients. It’s in the Texas Medical Center or TMC as we hypochondriacs call it, the largest medical complex on Earth. How big? It has 106,000 employees and 61 institutions, eight different academic and research institutions and 21 different hospitals. Over 160,000 people visit the TMC each day – yes,

each day. That’s more than 7.2 million visitors a year. More heart surgeries are performed in the TMC than anywhere else on the globe. Today, people come from across the country and all over the world to die in Houston.

Let’s talk about food. No one checks into a hospital to critique the food. But it’s bland, tasteless and most unappealing. So what’s the solution? I haven’t the foggiest idea. The menu looks really tasty with Italian food and seafood and delicious salads and desserts. But the kitchen has to serve up 400 or so meals all at once. Most chefs don’t have to worry about serving saltfree diets, no sugar, cut the mayonnaise and go easy on the Jell-O. This morning I was served the nicest breakfast of scrambled eggs, French toast and bacon. Alas, the eggs were not just cold but frigid. The French toast was soggy and the bacon was limp. This is an observation, not a complaint. I couldn’t do any better. I just wonder if a deliverer from Door Dash carrying six dinners of enchiladas with taco

salad would delay the dollies trying to take a patient to a double lung transplant.

A brief mention as to why I am in this hospital. One night I was engaged in my after dinner routine: in my patio with cigar, brandy and iPad to read the next day’s New York Times. Just as I was setting up my evening nest I tripped and fell. I couldn’t move. Being all alone that night, I was stuck until I was found by a son. He called 911, two very large medics arrived within minutes and raced me to the hospital. I felt really stupid lying in the back of a screaming ambulance, red lights flashing, racing through the rain on a Houston expressway. I can hear a motorist saying, “Poor devil, hanging on to life.” I had two skinned elbows and two skinned knees. But the doctors didn’t like my heart beat, so here I am – two days and nights of tests. My advice to you: If you’re ever in a hospital, don’t order scramble eggs.

Ashby has recovered at ashby2@comcast.net

To my patients:

It is with mixed emotions that I am announcing my retirement. My last day in the office will be May 31, 2023.

I am excited to inform you that Dr. Ajay Aggarwal, an experienced pain medicine physician, will be taking over my practice. Dr. Aggarwal is board-certified in anesthesia and pain medicine. Dr. Aggarwal and his team will continue to see you my current location. I am confident he will provide you with the highest level of care.

Daisy and Ashley will stay and continue to provide the same personal and professional relationship you have become accustomed to.

To contact Dr. Aggarwal for appointments and information, please call: 979-285-9995 or 979-245-7246

For medical records of visits prior to June 1, 2023, please email: cathy@yourpaindoc.com

It has been my pleasure to be a part of your care, and I will miss our visits. I wish you all the very best.

Sincerely,

Mark Brown, M.D.

TITLE: CDL DRIVER

Texas Department of Banking Notice

Application to Establish Bank Branch Office

Notification is hereby given that The First State Bank, 206 North Street, Louise, Texas 77455, has filed an application with The Banking Commissioner of Texas on May 31, 2023 to establish a branch at 200 Century Square Blvd, Sugar Land, Texas 77478.

Any person wishing to comment on this application, either for or against, may file written comments with the Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705-4294 on or before the 14th day after the date of this publication. Such comments will be made a part of the record before and considered by the banking commissioner. Any person wishing to formally protest and oppose the proposed branch and participate in the application process may do so by filing a written notice of protest with the Texas Department of Banking on or before the 14th calendar day after the date of this publication, accompanied by a protest filing fee of $2,500.00. The protest fee may be reduced or waived by the banking commissioner upon a showing of substantial hardship.

FDIC Notice

Application to Establish Bank Branch Office

Notification is hereby given that The First State Bank, 206 North Street, Louise, Texas 77455, has filed an application with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation on May 31, 2023 to establish a branch at 200 Century Square Blvd, Sugar Land, Texas 77478.

Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the regional directors (RMS) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at 1601 Bryan Street, Dallas, Texas 75201 no later than June 15, 2023. The nonconfidential portions of the application are on file in the regional office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request.

Notice to Creditors

Notice to Creditors

Notice to Creditors

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased, were issued on May 22, 2023, under Docket No. 23-CPR-039063, pending in the County Court at Law No. 1 of Fort Bend County, Texas, to Angela L. Moore and David K. Moore.

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased, were issued on May 22, 2023, under Docket No. 23-CPR-039063, pending in the County Court at Law No. 1 of Fort Bend County, Texas, to Angela L. Moore and David K. Moore.

Claims may be presented as follows:

Claims may be presented as follows:

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased, were issued on May 22, 2023, under Docket No. 23-CPR-039063, pending in the County Court at Law No. 1 of Fort Bend County, Texas, to Angela L. Moore and David K. Moore. Claims may be presented as follows:

Representative, Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased c/o John J. Clennan 4502 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 103 Missouri City, Texas 77459

Representative, Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased c/o John J. Clennan 4502 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 103 Missouri City, Texas 77459

Representative, Estate of Arthur T. Moore a/k/a Arthur Tompkins Moore and Arthur T. Moore, Deceased c/o John J. Clennan 4502 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 103 Missouri City, Texas 77459

All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED May 23, 2023.

DATED May 23, 2023.

DATED May 23, 2023.

Clennan Law Firm, PLLC

Clennan Law Firm, PLLC

Clennan Law Firm, PLLC

By ____________________________________ Attorney(s) for

Applicant

By ____________________________________ Attorney(s)

By ____________________________________

for Applicant

Attorney(s) for Applicant

Publisher’s Affidavit

Publisher’s Affidavit

Publisher’s Affidavit

I solemnly swear that the above notice was published once in Fort Bend Star, a newspaper of general circulation in Fort Bend County, Texas, as provided in the Texas Estates Code for the service of citation or notice by publication, and the date that the issue of said newspaper bore in which said notice was published on __________________________, 2023. A copy of the notice published, clipped from the newspaper, is attached hereto.

I solemnly swear that the above notice was published once in Fort Bend Star, a newspaper of general circulation in Fort Bend County, Texas, as provided in the Texas Estates Code for the service of citation or notice by publication, and the date that the issue of said newspaper bore in which said notice was published on __________________________, 2023. A copy of the notice published, clipped from the newspaper, is attached hereto.

Publisher

Publisher

I solemnly swear that the above notice was published once in Fort Bend Star, a newspaper of general circulation in Fort Bend County, Texas, as provided in the Texas Estates Code for the service of citation or notice by publication, and the date that the issue of said newspaper bore in which said notice was published on __________________________, 2023. A copy of the notice published, clipped from the newspaper, is attached hereto. Publisher SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME by ___________________________ on __________________________.

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME by ___________________________ on __________________________.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notary Public, State of Texas

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME by ___________________________ on __________________________.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notary Public, State of Texas

Notary Public, State of Texas

Review: Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar o ers all-American (and them some) fare with Western flair

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Sometimes, you come across a new restaurant by accident and find yourself pleasantly surprised. That was the case with me during a weekend visit to the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar in The Grid, the large retail complex off the Southwest Freeway in Stafford.

I literally knew nothing about the place. During a previous visit to another restaurant at The Grid and took note of the name. Silly me, I assumed it to be a restaurant that specializes in hot dogs. But when I walked inside on Saturday, I immediately saw that I was way off the mark. I’ve since learned that Lazy Dog is a national chain, with more than 40 locations across the country, including one in Cypress.

It took me a while to figure out what exactly the ambience was supposed to be. First of all, it’s a fairly massive place, larger than I’d expected. With large wooden

beams traversing the ceiling, rock-facade supporting pillars, and Western-themed artwork on the walls, I came to the conclusion that it’s meant to evoke a mountain lodge, maybe even a highend dude ranch, an effect enhanced by the flannel shirts-and-blue jeans attire worn by the staff.

The “dog” theme in the name is also reflected in the decor, with paintings of dogs, some kinds of metal sculpture, and even a fire hydrant-shaped sign at the front entrance. Outside there is a large patio area that welcomes patrons with dogs in tow. There’s also a strong American element to the surroundings, with a neon sign spelling out “America” framed by license plates from many states of the nation. My dining companion sat in a corner booth and were immediately greeted warmly by our server, who was also doubling as bartender. Looking over the expansive menu, I was struck by just how varied it was in its selections in what is basically

RICHMOND/ROSENBERG ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

We hope you will join us on Thursday, June 1, at 7:00 p.m. Please join us on Thursday, June 1, 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.

GUARDIANSHIP INFORMATION SESSION

Brazos Bend Guardianship Services is hosting a free adult Guardianship Information Session on Monday, June 5th at 6:00pm at the University Branch Library. Attached is a PSA with all the details. Please publish in the community calendar section of your publication.

SPACE CITY PEN CLUB

“Fountain Pen Exhibit” THROUGHOUTMay, library hours. Missouri City Library, 1530 Texas Parkway - Will.penner84@yahoo.com / 832-633-0595 The forerunners, the birth in 1884, and modern developments of fountain pens are illustrated with pens, anatomical and patent drawings, selected books and magazines, and accessories.

FBJSL

ONGOING

IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS

We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/ request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com

SANCTUARY

THE

FOSTER CARE SERVICES

We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org

ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264

Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. The next Bus Trip is on April 26, 2023, to Painted Churches. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281-785-7372 for more information.

FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES’

ONLINE BOOK CLUB

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,” find the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling George Memorial Library (281-342-4455).

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 fit 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 every-

all-American fare. Just for a small sample, it includes “roadtrip bowls” that include some Middle Eastern and Indian dishes, sandwiches of all kinds, noodle dishes from different global regions, salads, burgers - it goes on and one. They also offer TV dinners to go, a first in my restaurant going-experience.

The manager was told that

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

Address: 12223

Southwest Freeway

Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight

Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-

midnight Saturday and

Sunday

Kid-friendly: Yes

Alcohol: Yes

Senior discount: No

Healthy options: Yes

Star of the show: All-

American Burger Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

this was our first visit and honored us with some special waffle chips which made for a great appetizer. This being an all-American restaurant (more or less), I went with the All-American cheeseburger, which the server assured me was a great choice. It features two grilled quarter-pound beef

patties, American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and something called “housemade bark and bite sauce.” To mix things up a bit, I ordered the Cajun fries. The wait was very reasonable, and the server was true to her word. The burger was everything you’d expect in a burger, cooked exactly as I’d

ordered. In fact, it was almost too much - I actually had to take some of it home.

It’s always nice to go to a place (or try any new experience, really) with no expectations and leaving having been more than satisfied. That was my experience with Lazy Dog, and I’m sure I’ll be back.

body! 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 281240-8181 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 office at 281-491-6041 or Mike Schofield 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@reichekfinancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!

MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801

Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at

is everything you

The All-American cheeseburger at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

might expect. Photo by Ken Fountain

Explore the forest canopy – indoors! At the museum’s newest handson exhibition, visitors roam from tree to tree as they discover the many habitats that trees provide for animals large and small. Climb through large treehouses, become an animal tracker, get face-to-face with wildlife of all sizes, move your feet on the forest-sound dance floor, and more!

May 26 – September 4

For tickets and information, visit hmns.org/treehouses This exhibition is proudly supported by Fort Bend Junior Service League