July 27, 2016 - Fort Bend Community Newspaper by Fort Bend Star Newspaper

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Barco Escape takes Star Trek beyond a normal viewing experience,

Commission to consider Telfair zoning application,

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WEDNESDAY • JULY 27, 2016

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 38 • No. 49

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Residents oppose proposed apartments for Fort Bend Women’s Center By Theresa D. McClellan For the Star They want to be good neighbors. They also don’t want misinformation to derail their $15 million plan to provide safe housing for survivors of domestic violence who are no longer in crisis. That’s why the Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC) addressed the issues raised by a petition signed by more than 1,900 people in opposition to the Magnolia

Gardens Community. Magnolia Gardens is the 104-unit apartment complex located on 20 acres in the VITA GOODELL R osenbergRichmond area that backs up to the single-family subdivision Long Meadow Farms. The apartments will be on the corner of Skinner Lane and West Bellfort Street with the entrance on Skinner Lane. This is not a women’s shelter.

“For more than 30 years the Fort Bend Women’s Center has been providing shelter for victims of domestic violence with the goal of helping the survivors become self-sufficient and independent so they never have to return to an abusive relationship,” said FBWC executive

director Vita Goodell. In 1999 the center received funding to help clients with their rent for a year. The clients worked with career counselors or got junior college certifications until they could take over the payments. But over the last two years, especially in Hous-

ton, apartment occupancy rates were so high they had a hard time finding apartments in safe neighborhoods. So the agency decided to provide housing and support services in one space. Magnolia Gardens is to be funded by grants from private foundations and through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, which offers a tax credit. “The best funding was the housing tax credit and to get enough points to get funded it must be in a low poverty area, have a certain number of schools and be within 1.5 miles

from certain amenities such as a store and pharmacy,” she said. There are multiple programs vying for the tax funding. The state department will make a decision in Austin on July 28, said state spokesman Gordon Anderson. Recently, Magnolia Garden officials asked to be annexed into the local mixed use development (MUD) and were prepared to pay the fee

H SEE FBWC, PG 7

Neighborhood petitions to leave Fort Bend ISD District to hold public hearing By Joe Southern

titioners have filed a related petition with the Alvin ISD requesting attachment to that Several residents in the district. The hearing will begin Diamond Bay section of the at 6 p.m. in the Administration Shadow Creek Ranch subdi- Building at 16431 Lexington vision have signed a petition Blvd., Sugar Land. seeking to break away from FBISD has not yet made any the Fort Bend ISD and join the determination about the petiAlvin ISD. tioner’s request and officials The Fort Bend ISD Board said no additional information of Trustees has scheduled a will be shared, or action taken, public hearing for Sept. 26 to prior to the Sept. 26 hearing. consider the petition. The peThe subdivision is part of a jsouthern @ fortbendstar.com

Pearland master-planned community located in Fort Bend County. Most of Shadow Creek Ranch is in Brazoria County. The students affected by the petition currently attend Blue Ridge Elementary, Christa McAuliffe Middle and Willowridge High schools in FBISD. According to a now-closed petition on change.org, a group calling itself Concerned Village of Diamond Bay Parents said the community more closely identifies with Alvin than it does Fort Bend. “We are mobilizing to implore Alvin Independent School District to annex the 14 communities in the Village of Diamond Bay of Shadow Creek

Ranch into its school district. It is important that our children attend the schools that are located closest to their communities and that are attended by their friends and neighbors,” the petitioners said. “This will assist in the development of a stronger family environment and better community involvement in the schools. We must demonstrate to Alvin Independent School District and Fort Bend Independent School District that this is something that we want and need.” The Alvin ISD has not yet set a hearing date.

POKEMON GO

(Photo by Joe Southern)

Bear Myers, 6, looks for Pokemon with his cell phone Saturday in the outfield at Constellation Field. Photo cr edit ww w.niantic labs.com

Left photo: Pokemon Go players search for the augmented reality game characters with their cell phones Saturday in the outfield at Constellation Park before the Sugar Land Skeeters game against the York Revolution. (Photo by Joe Southern)

Six vie to be Fort Bend County Fair queen Six young ladies have registered to run for the 2016 Fort Bend County Fair Queen. Alyssa Flowers, Kennedy Paige Johnson, Megan Lepo-

vitz, Katie Koerth, Samantha Sebesta, and Savannah Fernandez will be vying for the queen’s crown, leather sash and their place in fair history. The

young lady who is declared the winner will participate as an ambassador throughout the fair’s run from Sept. 23 to Oct. 2 and through the follow-

By Theresa D. McClellan For the Star

SPORTS

One-on-one with Swatson

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p. 10 (Submitted Photo)

Pictured from the left are 2016 Fort Bend County Fair queen candidates Alyssa Flowers, Kennedy Paige Johnson, Megan Lepovitz, 2015 Fort Bend County Fair Queen Hannah Eicke, Katie Koerth, Samantha Sebesta and Savannah Fernandez.

ing year’s events. The contest awards several different scholarships to the queen and her court including a $2,000 marketing award scholarship. On July 17 a meeting was held at the Safari Texas Ranch where the young ladies, their parents, board members and committee members gathered for tea and an explanation of contest rules. The 2015 Fort Bend County Queen, Hannah Eicke, and several past fair queens attended to help present the rules and information of the contest. The candidates attend schools from all over the county, including Ridge Point High School, Foster High School, and Lamar High School.

H SEE FAIR QUEEN, PG 7

PAGE 2 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

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Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy holding registration The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications to attend the Citizens Police Academy this fall. The program consists of 11, 2½-hour courses held consecutively on Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m., beginning Aug. 18 and concluding on Nov. 3. Everything needed for the course is supplied free of charge and will take place

at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy, 1521 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, across the street from the main complex of the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy is intended for members of the community seeking to become more informed on law enforcement issues as well as those

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contemplating a career in the field. The focus of the program is to provide an overview through course work and practical hands-on experience of the criminal justice system and the operations and various functions of the sheriff’s office from top to bottom. Participants will have an opportunity to tour the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office in its entirety as well

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Motorcycle deputies Joe Lancaster, left, and Chris Bronsell, right, discuss what it’s like to be a “motorcycle cop” for the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office during a recent Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy session.

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as learn the workings of each of the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office divisions, including patrol, criminal investigations, detention, 911 emergency communications center, law enforcement training and narcotics and dangerous drug enforcement.

Graduates will be able to participate in a ride-along session with a patrol deputy. To apply, applicants must be 18 years of age and must not have a criminal arrest record. Those interested in enrolling in the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy may download

an application available by utilizing the link www. fortbendcountytx.gov/index. aspx?page=1271. Applicants may email their forms to socp@fortbendcountytx.gov or fax it to 281-238-1532. For more information, contact Deputy Gerard Argao at 281-238-1536.

The Sugar Land Planning and Zoning Commission will review a zoning application on July 28 for property at the southeast corner of University Boulevard and U.S. Highway 59. Newland Communities submitted a revised Planned Development (PD)-General Development Plan zoning application for the property – known as Telfair Tract 5 – on May 16. The revised plan contains a mixture of proposed office, retail, restaurant and hotel uses, as well as a proposal for a senior age-restricted independent living use. The commission’s scheduled workshop on July 28 follows an exhaustive review of the plan by city staff. “It is important to note

that moving an application forward through the zoning process is no guarantee of staff support or ultimate planning and zoning commission or city council approval,” said Director of Planning Lisa M. Kocich-Meyer. “It provides the opportunity for the public to give input and feedback on the proposal. Public feedback informs the staff recommendation as well as the planning and zoning commission and city council through the decision-making process.” The public is invited to participate in the formal zoning process by attending planning and zoning commission and city council meetings, providing input during public hearings and sending comments to planning@sugarlandtx.gov.

Staff is also available to meet with interested residents and neighborhood groups. Updates on Telfair are posted at www.sugarlandtx.gov/index. aspx?NID=1391. Through years of planning, a long-term vision was established for one of the last large vacant pieces of property within Sugar Land. The planning process has established this area as an important destination for arts, culture and regional employment. The development within the area is intended to protect and enhance the public investment in the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land and the adjacent public plaza by creating a unique sense of place with enhanced streetscape and pedestrian-oriented layouts and features.

52 - 1 Year Commission to consider Telfair zoning application

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PAGE 3

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Fort Bend County encourages private water well owners to test water annually It is important for Fort Bend County residents using a private water well to safeguard the quality of the water for their families. Because water quality can be affected by many variables, the first step is to test the water. Neighboring water wells may draw from the same water table or zone. Therefore, it’s important that each property owner test their water wells. More frequent testing should be considered if: • There is a change in the taste, odor, or appearance of the well water, or inundation by floodwaters • The well has a history of bacterial contamination • The septic system has recently malfunctioned • An infant is living in the home • Family members or houseguests have recurrent incidents of gastrointestinal illness – There is a need to monitor the efficiency and performance of home water treatment equipment. Water contamination – natural and man-made: Underground water sources are always at risk of various contaminations. In order to

determine if water is safe, laboratory tests determining the existence of bacteria (Coliform and E.coli) must be performed. If a private well is flooded or has been subjected to possible contamination, do not use the water from the well until the following two things have occurred: 1. You have disinfected the well and your plumbing; 2. You have sampled your water and received a lab report confirming that the disinfected water contained no harmful organisms. Approved water sample bottles, instructions and related forms are available in the Environmental Health Department office, located at 4520 Reading Road, Rosenberg. Do not collect the sample in an unapproved container; do not use jars or other containers from home or other sources. As a courtesy, the Environmental Health Department will courier water samples submitted on Wednesdays only between the hours of 8 a.m. and noon. A cost of $16.50 per sample is required at the time of submittal (check or money order only payable to City of Houston). Cash is not

accepted. (Note: This test will not determine chemicals or other substances such as lead or nitrites. If you are concerned about chemicals or other possible contaminates in your water, you should contact a private laboratory or contact a private water quality or water treatment service company.) If problems continue with receiving failing results, it is recommended that the resident contact a licensed water well professional or a water treatment service provider about appropriate treatment technologies. It is possible there are other issues such as a cracked casing or crossed connections. Additional water disinfecting treatment equipment such as reverse osmosis units, chlorination systems, ultraviolet or UV systems may be required to be purchased and installed. Whether a water well was flooded or not, it is important that each property owner tests their water wells. Private water wells are not protected by federal regulations and are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the private well owner to

ensure the quality of their water source. For more information on water wells, owners and consumers are recommended to visit the National Ground Water Association at www.wellowner.org.

A recent study in Canada published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology showed that pharmacists can help reduce the risk of events such as a heart attack and stroke in people with poorly controlled risk factors for heart disease. High risk individuals for heart disease were divided and sent to one group of pharmacists for medication therapy management. Another group received normal, non-specialized care. At the end of the three month research, people who received medication therapy management with their pharmacist had a twenty one percent lower risk of heart problems compared to the other group. Other benefits that were seen in the intensive group included a reduction in blood pressure, a reduction in smoking, and a reduction in an important marker for the people with diabetes. Medication therapy management is a service provided by many trained pharmacists where a person’s medications are reviewed and managed to help improve overall health.

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PAGE 4 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

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the OPINION Barco Escape takes Star Trek beyond a normal viewing experience If you want to see “Star Trek Beyond” you can go to most any movie theater to enjoy it. If you want to experience the new Star Trek movie in a whole new format, you need to go see it at the Santikos Palladium on the Grand Parkway (or its sister theater in Tomball) in the new Barco Escape threescreen format. The theaters are among only 30 worldwide to already have Barco Escape installed and “Star Trek Beyond” is the third major motion pictures to be presented in the tri-screen format. Barco Escape has the main screen in the center and adjoining screens on the left and right side of the theater to give you an enormous, curved panoramic perspective. The Barco Escape concept has been in use for years in theme parks but has only recently been adapted for movie theaters. “This is how we see the world; the world is all around us,” Barco Escape CEO Todd

“They put them where they believe the format enhances the story,” Hoddick said. Most of the time you’re watching it like a normal movie. But when big, epic action takes place or there is a need to show a wide expanse, the side screens light up. They can also operate as independent panels to depict scenes happening on the side. Hoddick told me that there are plans to have Barco Escape in 100 theaters by the end of the year and in 1,000 within three to five years. He said we are fortunate to have the format in our back yard. “We have a special relationship with Santikos,” he said. There are four movies being released in the new format this year, eight scheduled for next year and 12 per year after that. In addition, super producer Jerry Bruckheimer is a champion of the format. “What Jerry wants to do is re-envision one of his early movies in the format,” Hoddick said. Let me go on record as hoping it’s “Top Gun.” As for the current theatrical experience, seeing this movie in this format gave me some very mixed feelings. I imagine this is how people in the 1950s felt when seeing 3-D for the first time. It’s an exciting novelty but it has some serious imperfections. First of all, the side images are distorted much in the way a panoramic

FAITH, FAMILY, & FUN JOE SOUTHERN EDITOR

Hoddick told me in a phone interview. This cutting-edge technology is a milestone in cinematic history ranking up there with the introduction of sound and color, followed by 3-D, surround-sound, giant screen (IMAX) and digital projection. “We are delivering an experience you can’t get anyplace else,” Hoddick said. The entire movie is not filmed in the Barco Escape format. In the case of “Star Trek Beyond” there are only a combined 20 minutes of threescreen experience.

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The Barco Escape three-screen format creates an extra-wide panoramic experience that surrounds the audience in the theater. photo does when taken in a semi-circle. It’s not bad but it is a distraction. Also, the images didn’t line up perfectly. You didn’t notice it during big space battles but when a human moved across the screens it jumped out as an annoyance. Additionally, the side screens were often a flatter contrast than the main screen. On the other hand, it really draws you into the movie when the action is big and fast. At times it was even overwhelming, leaving you a bit dizzy. That’s the way I felt the first time I saw an IMAX movie. When the format works, it’s

Dear Editor, My name is Alexander De Maio and I am a Boy Scout in Troop 441 in Sugar Land. I 4:22 am PM writing to you as because I am working on my Boy Scout’s

Communications merit badge. During the end of my 8th grade year at First Colony Middle School I started to notice how lacking the food was. Most the food revolved around frozen pizza, or frozen

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overall the movie kept me on the edge of my seat, made me laugh and also cry with twinge of nostalgia. There is some really good character development that was missing in the earlier Trek reboots. I’m curious to see it on a regular screen to compare the experiences and to see how well it holds up without the multi-screen enhancements. I think it will do just fine but I’m also very pleased to have been one of the first people in the world to see this movie in this format. I think the future is bright for both Barco Escape and the Star Trek franchise.

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mind-blowingly awesome. Having the screens come on and off takes some getting used to, especially if it is only on for a few seconds or so. I think as the technology improves and filmmakers experiment with it that it will become a standard format that all moviegoers will want and expect to see, but it’s not there yet. Still, if you want to see something cool and cuttingedge, this is it. As for “Star Trek Beyond” this 50-year Trekker absolutely loves it. Yes, there were some really corny moments and some gaping plot holes but

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burgers. We need an increase in the availability of fruits and veggies, along with encouraging students to eat more fruits and veggies. In conclusion making the meals in schools better, and

encouraging students to eat more fruits and veggies at school will benefit the bodies and minds of students. Alexander De Maio Troop 441 Sugar Land

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Fort Bend Cares gifts 29 heroic nonprofits grants totaling $157,500 Fort Bend Cares supporters celebrated the awarding of grants to 29 heroic nonprofits serving disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County on June 8 at Safari Texas Ranch. Through the generosity of event sponsors and other donors, Fort Bend Cares distributed $157,500 to these organizations. Close to 40 Fort Bend Cares Grants Committee volunteers performed a thorough review of grant applications from 48 local nonprofits before making their recommendations to the Fort Bend Cares Board of Trustees. Reviews included site visits, meeting with staff, and consideration of factors such as the number of children impacted and whether the organization meets a physical, emotional, or educational need. “People think fundraising is difficult. They should try making decisions on who receives grants. Fort Bend nonprofits are dedicated to improving the lives of everyone in our community,” Grants Committee Chairperson Scott Icenhower said. New grant recipients this year include Creative Dreams to provide a summer day camp

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 H

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Obituary

(Submitted Photo)

for disadvantaged youth aged 11-18 in Fort Bend and Hope for Three for the Teen Huddle program that holds activities including Sibling Sessions and Parents Time Out for families living with children on the autism spectrum. Fort Bend Cares Co-Founders, Dr. Bob McClendon and Jim Rice, awarded Shared Dreams the Founders Grant. Shared Dreams provides underserved Fort Bend ISD students with clothing, toiletries, and school supplies. Fort Bend Cares raises funds

for grants through a variety of events and individual donations. Its primary fundraising event, “Road Trip,” is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28, at Fluor in Sugar Land. To sponsor the event or to volunteer with Fort Bend Cares, contact Executive Director Angie Wierzbicki at angie@fortbendcares.org or 832-819-2005. For a complete list of 2016 grant recipients and for more information on Fort Bend Cares visit www.fortbendcares.org.

E E E E

WILLIAM THOMAS ATKERSON NOVEMBER 14, 1951

Representatives from Fort Bend Cares 2016 grant recipients and the Fort Bend Cares Board of Trustees celebrate the awarding of $157,500 in grants last month.

PAGE 5

William Thomas Atkerson of Sugar Land Texas, born on November 14, 1951 in San Antonio, Texas, died peacefully at home with his beloved cats on June 18, 2016. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Beulah Mae Atkerson and Father, John William Atkerson and is survived by a sister Peggy Ann Atkerson. A memorial service will be held at 4:30 PM on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at Unitarian Fellowship of Houston, 1504 Wirt Rd., Houston, 77055. Bill earned a Bachelor of Arts, Cum laude, in Mathematics, a Masters of Music in Theory and Composition then a Doctorate of Jurisprudence. Bill began his musical career at the age of three, studying piano and violin. He played in many regional orchestras including: Alexandria, Austin, Baytown, Beaumont, Fort Bend, Houston Civic Symphony,

JUNE 18, 2016

Lake Charles, and San Antonio. In addition to playing he conducted the University of Texas String Project, High School Orchestras in Lake Jackson and Beaumont; Austin Area Community Philharmonic; Austin Civic Symphony; Houston Sinfonietta; the New Music Ensemble at UT Austin and was the

first conductor of the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra. Bill was a founding member of the Boolean String Quartet which has performed professionally in the Greater Houston area for 35 years. Founder, conductor, and composer for the Emerson Intergenerational Orchestra of Houston, as well as conductor and arranger for the Houston Flute Choir, he also coordinated performances of Guitar Houston. In addition to his music, Bill had an active law practice for 26 years. Bill was one of a kind: smart, witty and always eager to explore new things, and above all else, an accomplished musician who loved all elements of music. To his students Bill was a wonderful mentor/ teacher, to his colleagues an inspiration. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Texas String Project, the Houston Humane Society.

✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢

City manager Allen submits proposed Sugar Land budget Sugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard recently submitted to city council a proposed $260.4 million budget for fiscal year 2017. The focus of the proposed budget maintains existing service levels but adds no new services except for the completion of Brazos River Park and the Festival Site, projects approved by voters in 2013. Anticipating higher property values from the Fort Bend County Appraisal District, City Council raised the homestead exemption to 10 percent in June – a measure that provides targeted tax cuts to homeowners by lowering the amount of home value subjected to the city’s property tax rate. Final values are not available until the end of July, but the budget anticipates a 3 percent increase in the average residential tax bill; that equals about $28 per year. Without

the increased homestead exemption, the average bill would have increased $51, so the exemption represents a ALLEN BOGARD SUGAR LAND CITY MANAGER $23 tax cut to residents. Water and wastewater rates remain unchanged for a sixth consecutive year, while residential solid waste and recycling costs will increase 77 cents per month to $18 based on the city’s contractual cost with Republic Services. The proposed budget funds a workforce of 722.5 full-time employees. Proposed positions address the growing demands for service in parks and recreation, neighborhood and environmental services, economic development, tourism and the Sugar Land Regional

Airport. The focus of the budget is to maintain the city’s high quality services. Recent flooding has reaffirmed the focus on drainage efforts that helped to reduce or eliminate structural flooding in the city. Significant drainage projects are planned in Covington Woods, the Highlands and Sugar Creek in the coming year, while Williams Trace is slated for reconstruction from Austin Parkway to Highway 6. Residents will have an opportunity to provide feedback to city council during a public hearing scheduled for Aug. 16. A series of budget workshops will be held throughout the month of August and are open to the public. The proposed budget will be available on the City’s website www.sugarlandtx. gov/budget.

CRIME BRIEFS

Man sentenced for assaults in park Miguel Angel Velasquez was convicted of aggravated assault on a public servant and sexual assault on July 12 after pleading guilty to both charges. The 27-year old Houston man appeared before 400th District Court Judge Maggie Jaramillo and was sentenced to a 25-year prison term in an agreement with prosecutors. The charges stemmed from an attack on a City of Houston park ranger, who risked his life to stop a sexual assault at a Houston park in Fort Bend County. According to the Chief Domestic Violence Prosecutor, Assistant District Attorney Amanda Bolin, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s deputies were called to Cullinan Park around 3 a.m. on June 23, 2014. The park, although owned and operated by the City of Houston, is located in the 12300 block of Highway 6 in the Sugar Land area. Upon arrival, deputies learned that a woman had been sexually and physically assaulted at the park by the father of her child. Park Ranger, Conrad Wilturner arrived at the park to conduct a property check when he interrupted the sexual assault. The suspect, later identified as Miguel Velasquez, confronted Wilturner and struck him in the face and head multiple times with a pipe. An alert for Velasquez was immediately distributed and he was located and detained by Houston police officers in the Sharpstown area. The woman was taken to the hospital for treatment as was Wilturner, who has since had a series of reconstructive surgeries and is still being treated for injuries associated with the attack. “God bless Ranger Wilturner. He put his life on the line to save this woman, victimized by a man with no moral compass,” said Bolin. “If there’s one thing I know I can

Miguel Angel Velasquez trust, it is that great men and women will rise up to defend the innocent from the evil that crawls among us – no matter the cost.” Aggravated assault of a public servant is a firstdegree felony punishable by

5-99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Sexual assault in this case is a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Velasquez received 25 years for the attack on Wilturner and an additional five years for the sexual assault. The sentences will be served concurrently, but Velasquez cannot be considered for parole for over 12 years. Attorney Mike Elliott represented the defendant.

FORT BEND DRIVING SCHOOL Serving the students of Fort Bend for over 25 years

FortBendDrivingSchool.com

BAPTIST CHURCH

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-261-5985

SUGAR LAND CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-561-0881

2719 Kingsbrook Lane, Missouri City, TX 77459 Preachiing & teaching from the King James Version “Faithful to His Word and His Will” Sunday School for all ages 9:15 am Sunday Worship 10:30 am & 6 pm Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 7 pm www.cbcmissouricity.org

15590 Voss Road • Sugar Land • www.slcoc.org Sunday Worship Services: 7:00 am • 10 am • 5 pm Bible Study (all ages): Sun. 9 am & Wed. 7 pm Tuesday Seniors’ Bible Study: 10 am

HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994 2223 FM1092 • Missouri City, TX 77459 Ed Byrnes, Senior Pastor Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am • 6:00 pm Sunday Worship 10:45 am • 6:00 pm Wednesday: 7:00 pm Bible Study / AWANA “A Place To Call Home” - www.hbctx.org METHODIST CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888 A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Sunday Worship in the Sanctuary Simple Service / Prayer & Communion: 8:15 am Contemporary: 9:30 am / Traditional: 10:55 am Sunday School for all ages available at 9:30 & 10:55 am. www.christchurchsl.org

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH • 281-499-3502 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX 77459 Traditional Worship: 8:00am and 10:30pm Contemporary Worship: 9:15am Sunday School all ages: 9:15 am and 10:30am www.fumcmc.org

2019 Bright Meadows Dr. - Missouri City, TX 77489 www.mocitycoc.org Sunday morning services: 10:15 am

(includes separate youth, bible hour and nursery services)

Sunday evening services: 5:00 pm Bible Study (all ages): Sun 9:00 am & Wed 7:00 pm Tuesday Adult Bible Class: 10:30 am In the heart of Mo City - with the city at heart PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

SOUTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-499-2310 4200 Cartwright Road, Missouri City, 77459 Sunday School 9:00 am Fellowship & Coffee 10:00 am Worship 10:30 am www.southminpres.org

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SUGAR LAND • 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Sunday Worship 8:30am • 11:00 am Sunday School for All Ages 9:30 am Pastor Bible Studies - Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. www.fpcsl.org LUTHERAN CHURCH

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS 281-242-7729

SUGAR LAND METHODIST CHURCH • 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Worship @ 8:30, 9:45 and 11:00 am Bible Study, all ages, @ 9:45 am www.sugarlandmethodist.org

MISSOURI CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-261-8944

800 Brooks St., Sugar Land Sunday: 8:00 am Traditional Worship 9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Contemporary Worship (Nursery Available) 4:00 pm Spirit of Life Worship

Scripture of the week

“Do not bring a detestable thing into your house or you, like it, will be set apart for destruction. Utterly abhor and detest it, for it is set apart for destruction.” —Deuteronomy 7:26

To place an ad in The Fort Bend County Worship Directory 281-690-4200

PAGE 6 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

THE STAR SIENNA PLANTATION

F I N E P R O P E RT I E S FIN E PIt’sRO PE RT I E S time to expect more

It’s time to expect more

NEW LISTING

Each RE/MAX® Office is Independently Owned & Operated

Office:

PENDING

FOR SALE OR LEASE

SIENNA PLANTATION

281.265.5533 Cell: 281.433.4462

www.KristiBajjali.com

3 Beds • 2 Full Baths 1,911 Sqft.................... $ 259,000 Gorgeous one story Pulte Vernon Hill plan! Open floor plan. Gourmet kitchen has 42’’ upgraded cabinets w/built-in desk off breakfast nook. Upgraded 20” tile flooring in foyer/living areas. Master bath has double vanities, shower & whirlpool tub. Large family room with gas fireplace.

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

PRICE REDUCED

3-4 Beds • 2 Full & 1 Half Baths 3,134 Sqft.................... $ 375,000 This pristine one-story has all the bells and whistles! Plan offers both formals, plus a media room! Study has a closet and could be a 4th bedroom. Wide plank Acacia hardwoods throughout. French doors in family room open up to fabulous Emerald custom pool w/ fountains.

PRICE REDUCED

SIENNA PLANTATION

4 Beds • 3 Full & 1 Half Baths 3,535 Sqft.................... $ 396,000 This updated four bedroom home is on an oversized lot, on a quiet cup-de-sac. Both the interior and exterior have recently been painted. $10K kitchen remodel includes granite countertops, custom painted cabinetry and appliances. Beautiful wood flooring was a $6K update.

5 Beds • 3 Full & 2 Half Baths 4,690 Sqft.................... $ 475,000 Stunning and spacious Meritage Longhorn plan, has offers all of the living space any family could need. It is located on a premium waterfront lot, on a quiet cul-de-sac. Floor plan offers both formals, a private study, an oversized game room w/wet bar and separate media room.

3 Beds • 2 Full & 1 Half Baths 2,498 Sqft.................... $ 245,000 Pristine! This 3 bedroom home is better than new! Almost everything has been updated or upgraded. Kitchen has been upgraded with fabulous granite counter tops, stainless appliances, pendant lights, recessed lighting & stainless appliances. Brand new carpet installed.

5-6 Beds • 4 Full & 1 Half Baths 5,466 Sqft.................... $ 879,000 A beautiful Westport custom home, fabulous wooded lot and a great location...all rolled into one! 5 or 6 bedrooms. Master and second bedroom with ensuite bath are downstairs. Upgraded finishes, including travertine flooring, custom cabinetry, detailed moulding and millwork.

FEMA funds $7.4 million in flood recovery

Deadlines near to file for flood assistance Compiled by Joe Southern jsouthern @ fortbendstar.com

Two floods this spring in Fort Bend County have affected 745 households that have been approved for FEMA assistance totaling $7,426,000. FEMA spokesman Ray Perez said that number is expected to climb with deadlines drawing near for residents to file claims from the floods. The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance for the April 17-30 storms is July 29. If damage occurred May 26-June 24, the registration deadline is Aug. 10. Additionally, Perez said the disaster recovery center at Sacred Heart Church, 507 S. 4th St. in Richmond will close on Friday, July 29. The July 29 deadline is for people in Anderson, Austin, Cherokee, Colorado, Fayette, Fort Bend, Grimes, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Parker, San Jacinto, Smith, Waller. The Aug. 10 deadline is for those in Austin, Bastrop, Brazoria, Brazos, Burleson, Eastland, Fayette, Fort Bend, Grimes, Harris, Hidalgo, Hood, Kleberg, Lee, Liberty, Montgomery, Palo Pinto, Parker, San Jacinto, Stephens, Travis, Tyler, Waller and Washington counties. Presidential disaster declarations for the two storms made federal assistance available to eligible individuals and households as well as those working in the designated counties. Some counties are included in both declarations. Applying for disaster assistance is essentially a two-step process, which ensures consideration for all FEMA

programs and the U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans. First, register with FEMA, then complete and return the no-obligation SBA loan application, if one is offered. There is no charge to apply for the loan and if approved, no obligation to accept it. Disaster survivors may register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 (FEMA). Applicants who use 711 or Video Relay Service may also call 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-4627585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. Registration is also available at a disaster recovery center. To find the nearest one, go online to the disaster recovery center locator at asd. fema.gov/inter/locator. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. Survivors should register even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been

settled. A free multilingual guide to the types of assistance available can be found at fema.gov/ help-after-disaster. For more information on the Texas recovery, visit the disaster webpage for the May-June storms at fema. gov/disaster/4272; or visit the Texas Division of Emergency Management website at txdps. state.tx.us/dem. Don’t wait for insurance settlement to register with FEMA Texas residents who filed their homeowner’s insurance claims for disaster-related damage are encouraged to register with FEMA even if they did not receive a final insurance settlement. Disaster officials say survivors shouldn’t delay filing a FEMA grant application because they’re waiting for a decision from their insurance companies. “In order to process your grant application, FEMA will ask for the name of your insurance carrier and your claim number,” said Federal Coordinating Officer William J. Doran III, who is in charge of FEMA’s operations in Texas. “We will ask if you received a settlement letter or an eligibility letter because FEMA does not reimburse losses covered by insurance.” It is best to document disaster-related damage with photos or videos but FEMA doesn’t need that physical evidence to complete an application. The agency understands that some damaged items must be disposed of during cleanup or before a FEMA inspector visits the property. FEMA: Use funds for its

C LASSIFIED

intended purpose Federal officials are cautioning Texans who have received disaster assistance from FEMA to use the money for its intended purpose and to keep disaster spending receipts for three years. Disaster assistance is to help residents meet basic disaster-related needs and funds are distributed via check or direct deposit. A letter explaining what the payment is to be used for arrives within a day or two of the check or direct deposit payment. If an applicant spends the payment on anything other than the purpose for which it is directed, he or she may be denied assistance the next time a disaster strikes. In some cases, FEMA will ask that the money be returned. “Money from FEMA is not like a tax refund from the IRS, so please don’t treat it as such,” said Federal Coordinating Officer William J. Doran III, who is in charge of FEMA’s operations in Texas. “These funds are to help survivors in their disaster recovery and shouldn’t be used for anything else.” Those receiving assistance are urged to keep receipts of their disaster spending for three years to document the money was used to meet disasterrelated needs. If a recipient receives an insurance settlement to cover the same expenses, he or she must reimburse FEMA. Random audits are conducted to confirm funds were spent properly.

A DS

FORT BEND DRIVING SCHOOL Serving the students of Fort Bend for over 25 years

www.fortbendstar.com FortBendDrivingSchool.com

PET of the week

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

Meet Boomer! He’s a schnauzer/terrier mix. He’s a 1 year-old small dog that loves to cuddle. He’s calm, and he can be shy around new people but warms up quickly! He’s available for adoption at the Houston Humane Society, 14700 Almeda Rd. You can find out more info about Boomer, and see hundreds of pets available for adoption at www.HoustonHumane.org.

CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200 • FAX 281-690-4250

H E L P W A N T E D HHHHHHHHHHHHHH C LASSIFIED A DS

HHHHHHHHHHHHHH LOOKING FOR

A BROKER

No Experience Necessary New Agent Training

Keller Williams

Call Andi St. Jean 281-265-0000

LEXINGTON BLVD. ANIMAL HOSPITAL • PART TIME KENNEL ASSISTANT • Competitive wages & great experience, 5:30am shift

• VETERINARY TECHNICIAN • Full Time, Experience Required

CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200 • FAX 281-690-4250

HELP WANTED

ATTENDANTS/ PROVIDERS

DENTAL ASSISTANTS

Delivery Drivers

Needed in the Missouri City/ Sugar Land/ Stafford areas Starting pay $8/hr. Please call

281-969-8725

10 Saturday’s Only! Call for Details

Greatwood Dental Assisting Program 19875 SW Frwy. #120 Sugar Land, TX. 77479 281-728-6012 www.GDAP.net

PerryLee Home Health

Approved & Regulated by TWC Career Schools & Colleges

HELP WANTED

DRIVER AND SHOP HELP

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC

MUST have Drivers License Dependable. 5 Day work wk, Insurance,Vacation, Holidays & Uniforms.

MUST have tools, DL, Dependable. 5 Day work wk, Insurance,Vacation, Holidays & Uniforms.

Hall Equipment and Supply Inc.

5711 Schumacher Lane Houston, TX FAX:

• PART TIME RECEPTIONIST • APPLY IN PERSON OR EMAIL RESUME TO INFO@LEXINGTONPETHOSPTIAL.COM E.O.E.

WWW.LEXINGTONPETHOSPITAL.COM

RN/LVN

Bilingual and non-bilingual Immediate Hire! Call: 713-777-1151 Fax: 713-484-6318 Email: sheri@agnursingservices.com

Fill your open positions Fast! Put your ad into 35,000 homes every Wednesday!

281.690.4200

713-782-9841

Deliver Phone Books Sugar Land – Fort Bend, TX Must be at least 18 yrs old Have valid driver’s license Proof of current insurance

281-904-9671

www.sddsdelivery.com

CASE MANAGER NEEDED

Must be willing to travel. $15/hr. $175 trip fee/pay period. Please call 281-969-8725 PerryLee Home Health 66 X 3 weeks $198 total

KWSW JOB FAIR 8/2/2016 • 6-8PM Call 281-265-0000 to Register We’re hiring Admins, Inside/Outside Sales, Buyer’s Agents and more (Licensed/Non-Licensed)

FULL AND PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE 1650 Hwy 6, Ste 350 Sugar Land, TX 77478

LOST DOG • $300 REWARD

Female, yellow lab mix, 50 lbs. golden/ light brown, short hair, blue collar, medium sized, very friendly, last seen July 4th StaffordWoodland West Subdivision on Robinwood Please Call 832-866-2150 or 281-250-7113 Thank you!

LEGALS

CITY OF STAFFORD SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR ADVERTISING LEGAL AND OTHER PUBLIC NOTICES OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AND LEGAL NOTICES The City of Stafford is requesting statements of qualifications and proposals for proposals from qualified newspapers of general circulation within the City to enter into a contract with the City to be the City’s official newspaper for publication of notices required by law and other notices desired by Council to be published. Detailed specifications and instructions are available from Tomika R. Lewis, City Secretary at City of Stafford, City Hall or by contacting Tomika R. Lewis at 281261-3900. Proposals should be sealed and marked “Qualifications and Proposals – Official City Newspaper” and delivered to the City Secretary of the City of Stafford, 2610 S. Main, Stafford, TX 77477 before 4:00 P.M. (Local Time), Wednesday, August 19, 2016. All proposals received will be opened publicly and read aloud at 4:05 at Stafford City Hall, Council Chambers on Friday, August 19, 2016. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Faxed or electronic mailed proposals will not be accepted. City Council is expected to determine the most highly qualified provider and authorize the execution of an engagement letter at the regular City Council meeting scheduled for September 7, 2016, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible. The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals submitted and to request additional information.

ADVERTISE YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICE WITH The Fort Bend Star Call 281-690 4200

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

but the Homeowners Association (HOA) controlled by Long Meadow Farms said no. “We said OK, we’ll build our own wastewater treatment plant. We knew we had a plan B but we would have preferred to join,” said Goodell. As news of the project grew, so did a petition in opposition created on change. org. To date, more than 1,900 people signed the petition raising multiple concerns saying the area was prone to flooding, there are no sidewalks, it could overcrowd the schools and finally the two big concerns for safety and deterioration of property values. “My concern is not the women but the people they are trying to get away from could find them and they will be very close to my home. This is how crimes occur. I don’t want my family in the crossfire,” wrote Ashley Aetonu. Other residents complained over the perception that the Fort Bend Women’s Center was not being transparent and many questioned why it had to be in their backyard. But Jim Smith, resident

of Long Meadow Farms and a self-described “long-time supporter of the Fort Bend Women’s Center, said he is proud to stand behind the project. Smith is the president of PCCA, a locally based international company that has supported FBWC with donations, cash and time for more than 25 years. “Serving them has been a blessing to my company. I am very proud to think that our LMF community will have the opportunity to serve and to be served by the residents of Magnolia Gardens. What a great mark of our community’s character to be able to help support a haven of stability for women and children seeking to progress toward the realization of their dreams,” said Smith who is among the nearly 600 people signing their support. If approved, Magnolia Gardens will have support services offices attached to the proposed two-story apartment building. Support services include on-site case management and counseling plus rooms for wellness, a business center with printers and computers, career development and child mentoring. They anticipate a staff of 10 members not including property management. About 50 percent of the

housing will be occupied by FBWC families and the balance will be families referred by other domestic violence agencies, she said. The opposition petition said the other half would go to low-income clients from Houston. “That is incorrect” said Goodell. “Others will be referred from other domestic violence agencies. Goodell also wanted to address the security concern. “We have a lot of experience with domestic violence survivors and abusers and they (abusers) don’t come where there is a united front against them. On the other side is that we have been placing ladies in scattered sites and have gotten really good at being able to assess the danger level.” Magnolia Gardens will be a gated community with 24-hour on security. She included a study in her report to the state, which shows property values will not decrease as long as the apartments are well maintained. They will also conduct more vetting of the residents, which is more than what happens for new homebuyers. “You have no control who lives next to you. We will be screening out those who have violent sex offenses,” she said. They will have a tenant

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Beginning Aug. 1 the public will be able to purchase fair tickets online from one’s choice of the queen candidates. For more information, contact the fair office at 281-342-6171 or visit www. fortbendcountyfair.com.

H FAIR QUEEN, FROM PG 1

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Restoration Services, LLC.

PAGE 7

questions to not rely on social media but to call or email her. Goodell can be reached at 281-344-5755 or vgoodell@ fortbendwomenscenter.org.

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selection process giving preference to their clients and those with whom they have agreements. Since they don’t have the funding yet, there are no artist renderings of the proposed apartments and the tenant selection criteria screening process is still being drafted. “We will be very careful and supportive,” said Goodell. Some opposition petitioners said they would pull their students out of school because they did not want them exposed to children who may have seen violence in their homes. Goodell offered the reminder that domestic violence has no geographic, financial or racial boundaries. “Domestic violence happens to everyone,” she said. “Abusers are charming and socially adept and can completely hide it.” One of the supporters from Rosenberg wrote that her pregnant daughter is a domestic abuse survivor and asked how she could get an apartment. Another Rosenberg woman wrote, “I know we need this facility.” Goodell said she does not want to fight with her prospective neighbors. “We are good neighbors. It’s foreign to us to go through something like this. We are

• IRON FENCE REPAIR •

H FBWC, FROM PG 1

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 H

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PAGE 8 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

THE STAR

F ORT B END 6 OFFERS

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D SOL

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Plantation Springs Dr./ Pecan Grove Sub – Enjoy this Updated Emerald 1-story home w/a pool/spa & covered flagstone patio in the highly sought after Pecan Grove area.**A planned community w/a country small town feel.** This very flexible flrpln has both formals. Frm. Liv. area can be a library/5th bedrm. High ceilingsMain Liv. area w/open concept w/Sunroom & Island kit.w/SS Kenmore Elite appls., Silestone counter tops. 2015-updates incl.: Roof, Ext.Paint (some Int. Paint), Carpet, Pool Heater & Filter. More updates:light/water fixture. $290,000 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200. (VM2523PS)

Bridgewater/Commonwealth – Gorgeous all brick 1-story Perry Home on huge wooded cul-de-sac lot w/3 car det. garage. Fresh paint/new carpet (5/16). Granite countertops in kitchen & island. New roof 12/15. A must see! $415,000 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200.(4911GHC)

3 OFFERS

H OME S HOWCASE 4 OFFERS

B END

H OME

Plantation Colony Come see this “Wow” house – Lots of Upgrades/ Updates throughout! The seller just spent another $25,000 in June w/ fresh paint, new carpet, landscaping. Backyard oasis w/large sculpted pool & spa. ! $369,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200. (VM4902RB)

The Virginia Mack Team

NEW LISTING

D SOL

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S HOWCASE FULL PRICE

Shadow Glen At Riverstone – Over $50,000 in upgrades-Gorgeous Perry 1-story w/Brick & Stone accented ext. & lushly landscaped corner lot w/ stately pecan tree & several oaks. High Ceilings w/crown molding, 2’’ blinds, lg. tile flring or 5’’ slated hand-scraped dark engineered hardwood flooring through-out. Lg. Covered patio. Sprkl. sys. 3-car gar. $ 385,000 call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (6011SLL)

he Highlands – Fabulously upgraded 1-story hm. w/custom cabs. & double paned windows w/easy cleaning pull-in feature, tile & laminate flring.(no carpet). Kit.w/granite counter tops, custom cabs. w/extra drawers, updated appls., water fix., cabinet knobs, tile flring, double oven, microwave & smo.ceramic style cooktop. Master w/Planta. shutters, custom cabs., updated water/light fixtures, shower walls & frosted glass encl.. 2nd bath-w/rain shower head & hand held sprayer, glass raised bowl sink, etc. Cov. patio. $224,900 Call Virginia Mack 281207-5200. (VM2026SR)

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ABR, CBR, CRS, GRI, HALL of Fame,

D SOL Sienna Plantation - Gorgeous 3+study/2.5/ oversized 2 att.gar. All brick Village Patio home w/over $45,000 in upgrades. Wooded Lushly landscaped corner lot w/flagstone cov. back patio & path. Hardwood flrs, Crown molding & accent columns. New Int. Paint(3/16). French drs to For. Liv./study w/dr to private courtyard. Gas logs & built-ins. Open concept. Kit.w/tons of avanza counters, cabinets & built-in desk. SS. GE profile Appls., built-in refrig., 2-ovens & micro. Master w/sitting area. Exec.bath w/2 wlkins. Sprkl. sys. $299,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (3327MW)

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

FOR FULL PRICE SOLD IN 3 DAYS

D SOL

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Sutton Forest / Commonwealth – Over $100,000 in Upgrades & Updates! Grand Stately Perry Home w/Pool, Spa & Rock Waterfall. Backs to a Wooded Greenbelt-No back Neighbors! Great Flexible Floor Plan. Features Include: Upgrade Kit. & Master bath w/High end-Granite Counter Tops. Oil rubbed bronze style water & light fixtures even in 2ndary bath & framed mirrors. SS Appls, Refinished Hardwoods, 2’’Blinds & much more. Fresh Int. Paint (3/16). Plush Upgraded Neutral Carpeting. All bedrms. w/lg. walk-in closets. Don’t miss this one! $624,900. Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (5110CS).

RE/MAX Southwest • (281) 491-1776 X5200

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Riverbend North – Huge Lushly Landscaped Wooded Corner Lot Sets this Rare Emerald One-Story Home Apart from the Rest! Flex-open concept flrplan w/Fr.Living/Library or 4th bedrm. New(10/15) dark 5’’ handscraped slated wood style laminate flring in foyer, formals & den. Large tiled flring Kit., Breakfast, Utility Rm & baths. $275,000 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200. (1419NYRC)

Michaels Ct/Commonwealth Estates SUGARWOOD – Gorgeous custom home w/huge stately oak Saint – Grand Estate Style Home w/swing style 3-car w/up-lighting w/front porch. $130k in Upgrades/Updates incl. garage located on an oversized lot backing to a lush greenbelt & waterway. Original Owners w/ custom kitchen cabinets , Granite counter tops, SS dual fuel no pets or children has been well taken care of tons of upgrades/ updates. (Upgrades-Open range/double oven. Built-in SS JennAir counter depth Ref/ &concept Kit. w/granite counters, SS. style appls., Wine ref/under cabinet lighting. 5” Hardwood flooring, brush Induction cooktop w/pop-up vent., Exec. Master w/quarts counter, frameless glass shower marble & flagstone flooring downstairs. New paint/carpet bath encl., lg. tile walls & shadow box, full bath down, hardware, AC vents, fans & some lights.) upstairs (7/16). Vaulted ceiling in downstairs LR’s. 2-FP. door Hardwd. in F.Dining. Must See! $599,900 call $449,900 Call Virginia Mack 281-207-5200. (VM1714RP) Virginia Mack 281-207-5200 (VM4618SM)

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Incredible opportunity to build in a private retreat on a heavily wooded 2 lot homesite on the Colorado river. 15 homes already there. Per survey 171 ft on the river! Just 1 1/2 hours from Houston. $80,000. CALL BARBARA MONTGOMERY

4 bedroom / 3.5 baths in the heart of First Colony. Sparkling pool. Sought after school district! Levy lot. Updated beautiful island kitchen. Gameroom up and master down. Call for a private showing. $ 444,000. CALL BARBARA MONTGOMERY

Bedroom/bath 3/3. Great Private 1 Story retreat on the Colorado River. Full House Water Filtration System. Automatic Boat Lift, Boat Stall, 2 level Deck, HOA Pool. 7 Miles to Intercoastal & 14 Miles to Gulf. $185,000 CALL BARBARA MONTGOMERY

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1 story townhome just 1 ½ years new! Upgraded, 2/2/2 with study, ABR, CDPE, CRS, GRI high ceilings, extended tile thru den, molding, formal dining, 2060 713-828-9007 crown sf per tax rolls, super island kitchen RE/MAX Fine Properties with morning room. $349,900. 281-265-5533 • Each Office (4318SC) Independently Owned & Operated

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One story, 3/2/2, beautifully cared for & includes storm shades. Formals, breakfast & nice kitchen plus gorgeous landscaping. Huge master, separate tub and shower in master bath. Fresh tile in bath, kitchen & breakfast. Quiet street, close to Riverstone. $206,900. (7214CB)

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RIVERS EDGE - Charming 2 story brick Perry built home. 3 living areas, 4 bedroom, 3 ½ baths. Move-in ready and enjoy! Call Arlene Rolsen 281414-8400. (331SC)

ON GOLF COURSE

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Selling Ft. Bend’s finest homes since 1985.

SIENNA PLANTATION - Amazing golf course & waterfront views! Plantation shutters, 3 car garage, porte-cochere & motor court. A must see! Call Denisa Forbes 281-475-3768 (9111ST)

LAKE POINTE - Gated Townhouse with 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, Hardwood Floors, Gameroom, Family Room & Balcomy. Call Arlene Rolsen 281-4148400 (9WL)

LONG MEADOW FARMS – Beautiful 2 story home on almost ½ acre lot. Large home, ready for move-in. Master planned community. Call JoAnn Garza 713-927-0454 (8402 PB)

Belknap “Old Sugar Land” - Classic Custom, Upgraded Energy Efficient Brick Home. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Loft, Screened Porch, Private Yard with Stately Pecan Trees. Call Arlene Rolsen 281-414-8400 (514AS)

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WHEN YOU NEED TO KNOW, WE HAVE THE ANSWERS!

COMING SOON QUAIL VALLEY 2 story 4/2/2 with pool, on the golf course! Just replaced roof, fresh paint, spacious master, 2-story living room. Beautifully landscaped. A must see!

RIVERBEND SOUTH - Fabulous location on this 4 BR, 2.5 bath + both formals home. Across the street from Greenbelt with a large wooded/shaded backyard complete large garden. Granite counters, gas cooktop. Family room has easy care tile floors, especially great for pets. Large master bedroom and bath with updated counter, faucets and tile, separate tub and shower. Large laundry room with extra enclosed area for storage. $279,900 (1907CR)

QUAIL VALLEY - Looking for privacy and a view? This 1 story, 4 BR, 2.5 bath home + pool/spa overlooks creek and the golf course. Large covered patio is great for outdoor entertaining. Kitchen features beautiful granite counters, SS appliances, double ovens. Wood floors in formals, tile or wood throughout except in BRs. $259,000 (3402CT)

FOR SALE

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SCOTTSDALE 4/2/2 • $178,000

FOR RATES! PLEASE CALL 281-690-4200

UPDATED AND READY TO GO WITH FRESH PAINT IN AND OUT. MUST SEE!!!

CONGRATULATIONS to our 2nd Quarter Top Producers!

Nell Osborn

Debbie Ashley

Sharon Kaye

Mike Martin

Fort Bend Office | 14100 Southwest Freeway, Suite 245 | Sugar Land, Texas | 77478 | 281.240.8800

heritagetexas.com

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

THE STAR

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 H

Local theatre inspires artists to reach for the stars

SPONSORED BY

SKEETERS CHECKING

By Donna Hill For The Bend Star

The perfect double play! 1234

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membersourcecu.org 713.627.4000

Official credit union of the Sugar Land Skeeters

2016

AUGUST SEASON SCHEDULE

(Submitted Photo)

The Fort Bend Theatre is performing “Treasure Island” this weekend. songs and wrapping up with a performance on Friday. Check the website for dates and times. In addition to musicals and performances for youngsters, there are shows for the adults to audition and perform in as well. Some of the productions include “The Nerd” (written by the late award winning playwright Larry Shue), along with “Wedding Belles” and “Sense and Sensibility.” McCain is proud of not only the theater, but also her graduates. “It’s wonderful watching young people flourish and achieve their goals in film, television, Disney contracts, and professional theatre. Over these 28 seasons it is remarkable how many people have gone on to professional careers after starting with us,” beamed McCain. “Sterling Knight, who started here when he was 4 years old, stars in Disney’s ‘Sonny With A Chance’ and the movie ‘17 Again.’ Sarah Austin starred as our Cosette in ‘Les Mis’ and is now Matilda on the Broadway Tour; Allison Tolman, Star of ‘Fargo’ and ‘MadDogs’ and Aaron Howles of ‘True Blood,’ ‘Swingtime’ and ‘United States of Tara’ all trained and performed here.” McCain, a Houston native, graduated from the High School for Performing and Visual Arts and received her bachelor’s degree in theatre

arts from the University of Houston. McCain is also a playwright, having written the ‘Princess Christmas’. A portion of the play was performed on Broadway as part of a Broadway musical competition. “Twenty minutes of it,” McCain said proudly. As an actress, McCain received her earliest training at the Alley Theatre of Houston. As if running a theatre and training up and coming actors isn’t enough, McCain is also up to any production challenge. Coming up Aug. 13-14, the Fort Bend Theatre will work on breaking the The Guinness Book of Records for “performing the fastest theatre production.” “We plan on picking a show, holding auditions, rehearsing, costumes and do it in 19 1/2 hours up until the performance!” McCain said enthusiastically. The record is currently held by a theatre in the United Kingdom. McCain wants to be the first American theatre to beat the record. Given her track record for grooming students for Broadway and Disney, McCain, her staff and her students might get into that famed record book. For more information, go to www.fortbendtheatre.com or call 281-208-3333.

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ATLANTIC LEAGUE TEAMS | HOME • AWAY

AUGUST 2016

When talking to Tarra McCain, Executive Artistic Director of the Fort Bend Theatre, one gets the feeling she loves her job. Apparently the community thought so too, by recently presenting her group with the Best of 2016 Fort Bend Readers Choice award for Best Community Theatre. And its no wonder. McCain not only loves the art of performance but the business of running a theatre. Now in its 28th season, FBT performs 12 shows a year (a show a month) inside the 100-seat locale, and performs roughly 10 performances per show, plus additional shows at the Stafford Centre and Miller Outdoor Theatre. The troupe also does shows at schools and other educational programs and retirement centers. This summer, FBT will perform Robert Louis Stevenson’s pirate adventure of a lifetime, “Treasure Island,” for their last two shows: Saturday July 30 and Sunday July 31st at 2815 N Main Street in Stafford. Tickets are $13 at the door or $12 online. Tickets for “Annie” (in August) are also available. For those with the acting bug, auditions are coming up for “The Big Bad Musical,” a howling courtroom comedy about a big bad wolf who gets slapped with a class action suit by – you guessed it – his story book friends Little Red Riding Hood, her grandmother and the three little pigs (among others). The jury (played by the audience) decides the outcome of the fairy tale trial. Bring a headshot and a song to sing on Aug. 15-16 from 6-9 p.m. Casting is open to people ages 10-80. If the youngsters are not quite ready for auditions yet, check out the musical theatre camps and classes for children ages 4-18. They learn voice, diction, character development and improvisation. Two camps are left before the school year starts. Classes are Monday through Friday. On the first day, students go to auditions, followed by learning their lines, dances and

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All Game Are Subject To Change

SKEETERS PROMOTIONS 5 Fireworks/ Super Hero Night / Boy Scout Campout 6 80’s Night / Postgame Concert - Spazmatics 7 Sunday Funday 15 Dollar Dog / Margarita Monday 16 Two-Steppin’ Tuesday 17 #Winning Wednesday 18 Thirsty Thursday / Summer Olympics Night 19 Fireworks / Football Night 20 Home Improvement Night / Selfie Stick Giveaway (Constellation Energy) 21 Sunday Funday / Outdoors Night / Back to School Night 29 Dollar Dog / Margarita Monday 30 Two-Steppin’ Tuesday 31 #Winning Wednesday

PAGE 10 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

SPORTS One-on-one with Swatson By Joe Southern jsouthern @ fortbendstar.com

t ain’t easy being green … big and hairy. For the Sugar Land Skeeters, their mascot Swatson lives a bug’s life at Constellation Field. The Fort Bend Star recently interviewed Swatson about his life with the Skeeters. His answers below have been translated from his buzzing and squeaks. FBS: What are your favorite game-day activities? Swatson: On game-day, I love to “bug” people. I consider it my job even though it is more of a hobby. FBS: Are there particular players or coaches you like to pick on? Swatson: Ricky Hague, for instance, always jokes with me more than others and always chuckles when interacting with me. Jeremy Barfield, Derrick Loop and I have an interesting relationship. They always pull pranks on me more than others. I sometimes plays catch with the audience pregame and one game I pelted “Barf” (Barfield) with a tennis ball in the rear end and Jeremy grabbed the ball and threw it over the stadium as far as he usually can hit it… which is pretty far. Josh Prince and Beamer Weems are like big brothers to me as well. They always

harass me during pregame and in the locker room all in good fun. FBS: What is the best way for a fan to get your attention for pictures or hugs? (Are there things fans should not do?) Swatson: Ask politely. We have so many fans who try to pull and tug on me during a game like the last piece of pizza, but honestly, if you just get in front of me and ask nicely for a picture I will try to stop for you. Also, call me by name – Swatson! FBS: What do you do in the off-season or when the team is out of town? Swatson: I always stay busy. I’ve made around 150 appearances since the end of last season. I stay active within the community whether it’s a grand opening for a store, a 5K or parade, or our reading program for schools and libraries. I enjoy creating buzz for the Skeeters any chance I get. FBS: Are you friends with other mascots in the area? Who? Swatson: I was inducted in the FURturnity when the Skeeters arrived here in Sugar Land. All the mascots in the Houston area conspire to create better entertainment our fans. My best friends are Auto, Diesel, Orbit, Clutch and Toro. Those guys are the Kings of the Town. FBS: Do you have any particular charities or causes you support? Swatson: The Skeeters Foundation aims at making a difference in the lives of children through the promotion of education and healthy activities. We support all local charities through

appearances, fundraising, and donations. I think I can speak for most mascots in the sense that we all love making hospital visits because those are the ones that need it and they really do make a difference. You can bring out emotions that patients are really needing and it plucks at my heartstrings to make a kid smile. FBS: Do you have favorite tricks or gags you like to do? Swatson: I love pulling pranks on people. I have three or four whoopee cushions I like to use. I like to flirt with the girls and ride my unicycle down the concourse to distract everyone during a rain delay. All of my other favorite tricks are for people to see themselves when they come to the ballpark. FBS: How can someone schedule an appearance with you? Swatson: Go to our website www. sugarlandskeeters.com and go to my page for more info. FBS: Who are your favorite celebrities and athletes? Swatson: My favorite celebrities are Emma SWATson and BEE BEE King. My favorite athletes are JJ SWatt, Randy MOTH, George STINGer and Kevin DurANT. FBS: What are your favorite foods, drinks, music and movies? Swatson: I prefer ballpark hot dogs and cotton candy and drinking bug juice! I love listening to The Beetles, Skeeter Davis and Papa ROACH. My favorite movies are A Bug’s Life, Antz, and Wedding Crashers.

Behind the scenes with the Skeeters’ Swatson

By Joe Southern jsouthern @ fortbendstar.com

hen it comes to the Sugar Land Skeeters, Swatson the mascot is a big, fat, green, fuzzy

deal. The mischievous mosquito is a fan favorite at Constellation Field. Touted as the “best mascot in the Atlantic League,” Swatson is active on game days on the field, in the stands, on the dugouts and anywhere else he can make a pest of himself. Handling Swatson requires the full-time attention of Skeeters Mascot Coordinator Zach Bohls. Fortunately, the 25-year-old Texas Tech graduate is bounding with as much energy and enthusiasm as the grinning, green-snouted goofball he manages. He took over the responsibilities of wrangling Swatson last November and has been loving every minute of it. “What attracted me to the position is that it was close to home and it’s baseball,” he said. “How many people work at places where people are coming to your job to unwind or have fun! It is a great job and I have been blessed to have such a great opportunity.” A native of Austin, Bohls has spent much of his young career fussing over furry ballpark figures. “Basically, in middle school I

wanted to become a mascot because who has more fun than mascots?” he said. He tried out to be his middle school mascot but didn’t get it. In high school he put in his name every year to be the West Ridge Wildcat but was always told no because one had to be a senior to wear the suit. Finally, in his senior year, Bohls’ dream came true. He became the mascot and the next year auditions were opened to all grade levels. It was a lot easier for him in college. He went to Texas Tech where he majored in public relations. He got to handle the mascot Raider Red for three and a half years. “Raider Red was the mascot at Texas Tech, and we got to be best friend for about three and a half years and during that tenure I was the team captain two of the years,” he said. “We participated in the Capital One Mascot Bowl and I got to spearhead that campaign. Luckily we fought 16 mascots throughout the year and we ended up winning the mascot title and we won $20,000 for our program and got a lot of exposure.” Bohls’ success with Raider Red led to professional opportunities. In 2012 he worked with the National Cheer Association, going around the country teaching people in college and high school how to be a mascot. During and after college he has handled “Rowdy” for the Dallas Cowboys, Austin Toros “Da Bull” for the Austin Spurs (a minor league team for the San Antonio Spurs), “Spike” for the Round Rock Express, and “Deuce and Daisy” for the Frisco Roughriders. “They were big, well-rounded prairie dogs and they were a lot of fun,” he said of the Frisco mascots. Looking back over the last few years, Bohls can see a lot of fun and fur behind him. “I would say I am somewhat of a

zookeeper,” he said. With the exception of Sugar Land, all of his other mascot-handling gigs have been part-time jobs. Bohls said he enjoyed working with Rowdy but likes the opportunities Swatson affords him. “I loved working with the character Rowdy and working games was just a whole different world experience ’cause you’ve got 80,000 fans cheering and you’ve got this giant jumbotron and it’s as big as the horizon almost,” he said. “That was just a lot of fun and great sports environment.” He said characters like Rowdy don’t get as much direct fan interaction and have less time to perform and show off the character’s skill set at games. “It’s a lot harder for the mascots to do skits or do videos or anything like that, but that’s something I kind of feel at home here. Your mascot gets to be the center of attention.” Bohls is a real student of his craft. He has befriended Taylor Griswold, who managed the Detroit Pistons’ mascot Hooper for eight seasons. He said the two of them are always collaborating on ways to up their game. “He (Griswold) said you just constantly need to be learning ways to improve your arsenal and make your character stand out,” Bohls said. “He was a great mentor and still is.” Whenever he can, Bohls is visiting other game venues. “I’m constantly researching and constantly going out to other ballparks,” he said. A lot of the moves and non-verbal communication he employs with Swatson comes from imitating expressive comedians like Jim Carey, Steve Martin and the late Robin Williams. As a boy Bohls used to watch old slapstick comedies by the Three Stooges and Charlie Chaplin. All of those influences come into play whenever Swatson takes the field. “It’s definitely a place where I can excel and use my skill set,” he said of Constellation Field and the Skeeters organization. As the mascot coordinator, Bohls’

job entails doing much more than just getting the big, green bug around the ballpark. On a typical game day he will arrive at the stadium around 10 a.m. He will spend the day writing scripts, coordinating with the public address announcer, making notes for camera operators and setting up props. “As soon as the game starts it’s organized chaos from there,” he said. Swatson is on the field for player introductions and pre-game festivities. After that he’s working the crowds and visiting fans in the suites. By the fourth inning it’s time for more skits and games. Later on come the T-shirt toss, the seventh inning stretch and other fan interactions. In between the public appearances, Swatson takes several breaks. The Texas heat is tough, especially for a furry mosquito. Bohls said Swatson drinks a lot of water and can sometimes shed as much as 10 pounds at a game. Naturally, that means Swatson gets a bath after each home stand whether he needs it or not. “The whole process usually takes all day,” Bohls said of Swatson’s bathing routine. “You try making a 6-foot, 4-inch, 300-pound mosquito to sit still. It ain’t easy.” When the Skeeters are away and during the off-season, the fun and games don’t end for Swatson. He makes numerous appearances at schools and with different groups and organizations. Bohls said he is always trying to make the game experience better for the fans. In doing so he has given his character a lot more character. “Swatson’s big of a flirt,” he said. So far, Bohls said, the fans have responded well to Swatson’s shenanigans. “We’re very fortunate to have a great crowd and a great audience and they react very well,” he said. Bohls said he hopes to teach Swatson how to fly one day. “He is still trying,” he said. “We still have a lot to accomplish and I am pretty excited for what is to come.”

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

THE STAR

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 H

PAGE 11

SPORTS Skeeters win 5 to stay in first place

By Bill McCaughey For the Fort Bend Star

lica bullpen carts and hosted a Pokemon Go event in the outfield. Sunday was Brewfest, which featured a selection of craft beers, and the annual Remote Dig for a chance to win a television.

assistant coach, once was invited to be a part of a Nolan Ryan simulated game. Ryan, like many sports’ superstars, was extremely competitive. Ryan was coming off an injury and a simulated game would show if he was making any progress COACHES in recovering from the injury. CHRONICLE In the simulated game there Troy Dean Conkle, Skeeters’ were two right handed batters

and two left handed batters plus eight defensive players. When Ryan got three outs he would go to the dugout and sit for approximately 10 minutes as if his team was batting. In the seventh inning Conkle tumbled into the bleachers to catch a foul ball. Ryan ran over to him and slapped him on the back while praising his effort.

New Stafford High baseball coach plans to honor Coach Mesa’s legacy By SMSD Communications

passed away unexpectedly in as head coach. April at age 26, just days after The Stafford community Stafford High head base- completing his second season – as well as individuals from ball coach Patrick Kellner throughout Greater Houston said the Spartans’ baseball – showed an outpouring of supprogram will always keep port for the Mesa family. alive the memory and spirit Kellner, 32, hopes to build of the late, beloved Coach upon the strong foundation Michael Mesa. that Mesa started at Stafford. “We plan on some differThe married father of two chilent things to do during the dren comes to Stafford from baseball season,” Kellner Class 3A Cotulla, where he led said. “We would like to inthe Cowboys to a pair of playvolve his family, and have off appearances after a lengthy his son throw out the first postseason drought at the pitch at a game. We look South Texas school. forward to honoring Coach Kellner said that experiMesa throughout the season ence helped prepare him for this year.” the Class 4A level. In addition Mesa, a 2008 Stafto his baseball duties, he will ford High graduate who teach social studies and coach returned to coach varsity middle school football at Stafbaseball and teach Spanish, Patrick Kellner ford.

“I’m a positive coach,” Kellner said. “I like to coach an aggressive style of baseball. I like to steal bases and bunt for hits, and try to push the limits of things. We always want to have teams that compete and work hard.” Kellner grew up following the footsteps of U.S. President Lyndon Baines Johnson. Like LBJ, Kellner grew up in the Texas Hill Country, graduated from Texas State University and taught in Cotulla. But their paths differ from there. Kellner isn’t interested in the White House. He would rather lead the Spartans’ baseball program to the UIL state baseball championships in Austin.

As they entered the ninth inning it dawned on everyone, Ryan had a no-hitter going. The first batter hit a ground ball down the first base line that the first baseman, a college football player recruited as a warm body to play first base, couldn’t get to. Ryan then proceeded to unleash a string of obscenities at the young man for not giving it his full effort. Meanwhile the batter, now standing on second base and sensing a potential problem, told Ryan that he thought the ball was foul and they should do it over. Ryan then proceeded to strike out the side and complete his no-hitter. Ryan celebrated with his wife and the Texas Ranger management who were in attendance, while the young football player turned first baseman was relieved to have survived the simulated game.

SKEETER OF THE WEEK The Fort Bend Star Skeeter of the Week is Beamer Weems for the second week in a row. Weems scored six runs while batting .500 with two doubles and a grand slam home run. “It felt great getting under that one,” he said. “My teammates did a great job getting on base … It felt awesome.” Close behind Weems were Jeff Dominguez with a batting average of .414, four doubles and six RBIs, and Delwyn Young with a .406 batting average, 13 hits and 10 RBIs. Roy Merritt pitched 11 innings with a 0.82 earned run average while picking up two saves.

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BIG WEEKEND ATTENDANCE The Skeeters’ Big Weekend was a big success as they drew almost 16,500 fans for last weekend’s three games. Friday was the Star of Hope Charity Auction with fireworks after the game. Saturday the Skeeters gave away mini rep-

Photo by Joe Southern

Skeeters shortstop BeamPhoto by Joe Southern er Weems belted a grand Skeeters pitcher Roy Merritt beats a York runner to first base for the out during Saturday’s game against York. Backing slam home run Friday night up Merritt is first baseman Delwyn Young. against York. He is pictured here batting during Saturday’s game.

20 Years Experience

The Sugar Land Skeeters won five games and lost three last week as they maintained their first place position in the Freedom Division of the Atlantic League. The Skeeters began the week beating Bridgeport 10-1. They then split a four-game series with Somerset before coming home to take two of three from the York Revolution. On Monday they left on a 10-game road trip before returning home on Aug. 5.

PAGE 12 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

OCTOBER 12, 2016

Overture Sugar Land & the Fort Bend Star Present

The 2016

SENIOR EXP

AT THE STAFFORD CENTRE • 9AM - 1PM

The Fort Bend Star welcomes everyone to the Second Annual Senior Expo! The expo is designed to be a service to the numerous Seniors in Fort Bend County and the surrounding areas. Featuring everything seniors need to know about everything they need. Companies and services from all over the area will be present to answer all the questions you need to know but were afraid to ask! Here’s what you can expect at the Expo:

• FREE Admission • FREE Breakfast and Lunch • Gifts and Prize Drawings • Educational information on healthcare, finances and legal concerns

• A chance to meet and speak to experts offering free advice on issues important to you! • An opportunity to visit and fellowship with old friends and new!

THE STATE BANK of TEXAS STAFFORD

The independent and Texas owned bank

sponsors To participate in this Free, Fun and Educational day all you have to do is register. You can fill out this form in mail it in. Mail to: The Fort Bend Southwest Star 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477

Call Us: 281-690-4200

REGISTRATION Name:_ ______________________________________________ Phone #:______________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________ E-mail Address:________________________________________ How many people to attend? _____

SENIOR EXP MAIL TO: The Southwest Fort Bend Star 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477 CALL US: 281.690-4200

BUSINESS OWNERS!

If you would like to be a Sponsor of the Senior Expo or a Vendor at this event, please call 281-690-4200.

4 1 25 28 7 27 206 9community 14 calendar of events 10 3 11 8 22 2 16 1021 7 3 THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 H

PAGE 13

FORT BEND

Editor’s note: Fort Bend Community Calendar are for non-profit events. Deadline is 12 p.m. every Friday. Please keep wording to a minimum. Answer the “5 W’s”: Who, What, When, Where, and Why. e-mail to StarNews@FortBendStar.com or mail to: Fort Bend Star, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300, Stafford, Texas 77477. WEDNESDAY, JULY 27 OFFICE SUPPORT JOB TRAINING

Information Session 6:30 – 7:30pm . Earn your General Office Support Specialist certification with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County. Training classes will begin in September at the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, 12530 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Classes will meet Mon – Thurs, September – December For more information or to RSVP for the Information Session, contact Colleen Mayer, Program Director at (281) 240-8181 or via email: cmayer@ftbendliteracy.org

THURSDAY, JULY 28 FREE PARKINSON’S DISEASE & ESSENTIAL TREMOR SEMINAR 6 p.m. at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Brazos Pavilion Conference Center. Discussion on Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy for Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor including the benefits and risks of surgery and appropriate patient selection. Registration required. Register online at events.houstonmethodist.org/sl-parkinsons or call 281.274.7500.

SUBURBAN SUGAR LAND WOMEN SAIL INTO 28 Suburban Sugar Land Women is celebrating 28 years of service 6:00pm - 8:30pm, at the Highlands Clubhouse, 1910 Williams Trace Blvd., Sugar Land,Texas 77478. Social and Founders Recognition Presentation. Please bring your donation to the event, or mail to SSLW, Post office Box 2384, Sugar Land 77487, by Thursday, July 21. Please RSVP by Sunday, July 24, midnight or before, monicariley7@gmail. com. For more info call 713-256-7953.

FRIDAY, JULY 29 HOT SUMMER NIGHTS At Sugar Land Art Center & Gallery. 7-9PM. Artist: Mark A Nelson. Join us for a free evening of wine and appetizers with an opportunity to purchase a raffle ticket to win the demonstration piece. Visit our website at www.sugarlandartcenter.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 STUDENT ATHLETE PHYSICALS Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will conduct physicals from 9:00 a.m. to noon (16811 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land 77479). Cost is $20, and UIL physical forms can be found on the FBISD Athletics webpage at www.fortbendisd.com. Orthopedic, sports medicine and cardiology specialists will be on-site to provide additional clearance as needed. All FBISD students participating in a UIL athletic sport must have completed a physical exam, signed by a physician, on file with the District prior to their first practice.

FBISD SEASON FOOTBALL TICKETS

STRENGTHEN YOUR BRAIN

Austin, Bush, Cements, Dulles, Elkins, Hightower, Kempner, Marshall, Ridge Point, Travis and Willowridge high schools are available. The season pass entitles you to an assigned seat at Home games. When you are a Visitor, the pass will act as General Admission to the game with no assigned seating. Tickets will be sold at the FBISD Athletic Office in Wheeler Field House (16403 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land 77479) from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays (except for Friday, Aug. 5 when the office of closed). August 1 through August 12 – Only 2015 season ticket holders may purchase the seats they hold in 2015. If you plan to be out of town during this time, you may purchase your tickets by mail. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope to enable us to return your season tickets to you. August 15 through August 25 – All remaining season tickets will go on sale to the general public on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Season ticket sales for all FBISD high schools will end on August 25 when the first game kicks off the 2016 season.Ticket options are not to be transferred to another individual. (Cash or check only – no debit or credit card transactions).

Learn how to use your brain, mind and body to bring about personal growth 2:00 to 4:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library, 1530 Texas Parkway. The program is free and open to the public. For more info call 281-2382100 or 281-633-4734.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will host the event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Sweetwater Pavilion on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. Attendees may stop by anytime during the shower. Demonstrations on how to safely use baby carriers, presentations on the importance of safe sleeping practices, and a Sugar Land police officer will be speaking about car seat safety, lactation consultants from the Birthing Center will be available to talk one-onone with moms and provide guidance and support. Light refreshments will be provided. Attendees can also participate in several drawings. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital hosts its annual Community Baby Shower in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week. For more information visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7080.

ONLINE JOB RESOURCE Job-hunters can learn about a special online resource, Job & Career Accelerator™ at 2:00 pm, in the Computer Lab at the University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. An overview and demonstration of this online resource for job-hunters who are searching for the right job or a new career. The class is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, reservations are required. Registration will open on July 27. visit (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “University Branch Library,” and find the program. Or call 281-633-5100, or visit the library.

“BE A SPARTAN”

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 ALL ABOUT SMARTPHONE APPS

from Noon to 2 p.m at the McDonalds, 3643 Main (US-90-A). Hosted by the Stafford Municipal School District. The first 50 students, ages 5-18, will receive a free ice cream cone when they mention SMSD. Soft drinks of all sizes will be $1. A Robotics Demonstration by the Stafford High Robotics Team is scheduled, and Stafford football players will sign autographs for their fans. Stafford MSD is accepting students who live inside or outside the Stafford City Limits..

An introductory class, begins at 2:00 pm, in the Computer Lab, at the University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. It is not necessary to own or to bring a smartphone to attend and benefit from this class. Free and open to the public. Reservations are required.. To register online visit (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “University Branch,” and find the program. Or call 281-633-5100.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL August 1 - 4 at 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m at St. Catherine of Sienna Episcopal Church, 4747 Sienna Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77459 for youth who have completed K through 5th grades. Registration Forms online at www.siennachurch.org.

ZUMBA DEMONSTRATION Sugar Land Branch Library will present “Zumba for Adults” 6:30 to 7:30 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, at 550 Eldridge Rd. Learn basic Zumba movements and how to stay physically fit with regular exercise. Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers, bring a bottle of water. The program is free and open to the public. For more info call the Library at 281-238-2140 or 281-633-4734.

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FREE LEGAL RESOURCES Andrew Bennett will present demonstrations of legal resources that are available at the Fort Bend County Law Library. Brief classes will take place on Thursdays August 4, 11, 18, and 25, 10:00 am -12:00 noon, in 15-minute increments, or by appointment. The classes are free and open to the public. Registration is required, and will open 2 weeks prior to each class date. To register, call the Law Library at 281341-3718. The Law Library is located in the Fort Bend County Justice Center at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 30298, in Richmond..

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 HOUSTON TIDELANDERS GOOD TIME SHOW Join the Houston Tidelanders Chorus and Quartets for a Good Time Show benefitting the Fort Bend Family Promise at Christ United Methodist Church Family Life Center 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479. Show Times are 1 p.m. – Tickets: $12.50 includes popcorn and soft drinks; 6 p.m. – Tickets: $25 includes light dinner and soft drinks. For tickets: houstontidelanders.org or call: 713-2238433 or email: gts@houstontidelanders.org.

TEXAS CONNECTIONS INFO SESSION

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 & 14 FORT BEND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra announces the creation of the first symphonic choir in Fort Bend County. Open call auditions for singers of all ages will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church located at 10221 Ella Lee Lane, 77042. You may audition as a solo or a small group. An accompanist will be provided. Group auditions will be held both days from 1 – 2 pm, solo auditions held from 2 – 2:30 pm each day. Auditions for symphony musicians of all ages will be held both days from 3 – 4 pm. Audition forms and links may be found on the FBSO page under the “Chorus” tab or the “Audition” tab at www.fbso.org. For more info email chorus@fbso.org..

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 EAGLE-PHOTOGRAPHY ON DISPLAY George Memorial Library will host an exhibit of American eagle photography in the Bohachevsky Gallery of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. An opening reception “The American Bald Eagle: A Photo Exhibit by William L. Morris, III,” will take place on Saturday 14, July 9, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. The exhibit will feature photographs by William L. Morris, III, who specializes in American bald-eagle photography in the Gulf Coast area. The exhibit may be viewed during regular library hours. For more information, call (281342-4455) or (281-633-4734).

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 17 FAMILY HEALTH NIGHT Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is hosting a Family Health Night. at 6:15 p.m. (16655 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land 77479), and participants must register at events.houstonmethodist.org/slfamilyhealthnight or call (281)274-7500. Physicians and specialists will be answering questions regarding primary care, sports medicine, urology and gynecology. There will be separate Mother/Daughter and Father/Son sessions available.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 FAMILY MOVIE DAY at 2:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the Sugar Land library, located at 550 Eldridge. This animated action-adventure film takes place in a bustling city where various anthropomorphic animals live and thrive in civilized coexistence. This movie is rated PG. The event is free and open to the public. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. For more information, call the library at 281-238-2140 or 281-633-4734.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 TEDXSUGARLAND SMALL TOWN, HUGE IDEAS TEDxSugarLand is working to share “Ideas Worth Spreading” to our community. Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre , 1700 First Colony Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479. TEDx events are aimed at sharing insightful, provocative, and thought provoking ideas with their audiences. This truly is a community event and is being coordinated locally by volunteers. TEDxSugarLand has some great speakers on the schedule and we are still accepting nominations through our site. While there will be a very limited number of tickets available for the event, people can put in a ticket request on our site. If you are passionate about TEDx events or are interested in expanding your knowledge, get involved! http://tedxsugarland.weebly.com

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 CHILDREN WELCOME! at Congregation Beth El. Families with children in Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades can join us for only the cost of tuition - no annual synagogue membership required! Start your child’s Jewish journey at our vibrant and inclusive congregation, affiliated with the Reform Movement. For more information contact jbuck@betheltx.org. Religious School dates: August 28– May 21, 2017, 9:00 am– 11:30 am.

Texas Connections Academy, a virtual public school for students in 3rd through 12th grades, is holding a Parent-to-Parent information session. Parents seeking innovative education alternative can learn how virtual public school, offered tuition-free, can meet their individual needs. Starbucks, Missouri at 1:00 PM; 4721 Hwy. 6, Missouri City, TX 77459

EDDIE L. HENRY, JR. Principal Agent

MONDAY, AUGUST 8 TEXAS CONNECTIONS INFO SESSION

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6:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Express Sugar Land, 14444 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478

VOLUNTEER FAIR Missouri City Branch Library will have a “Service & Volunteer Fair” from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway. Find out where your talent, skills, and time are most needed, and how you can make a difference in your own community. Event is free and open to the public. Call 281-238-2100 or 281-633-4734.

BUSINESS PLAN WORKSHOP Hands-on workshop on how to create a business plan at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library on Saturday, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, in the Meeting Room located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. in Missouri City. EzyBizPlan training workshop will explain how to create your business plan. The program is free and open to the public. Call the Sienna Branch Library at 281-238-2900 or 281-633-4734.

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First Colony Branch Library, Computer Camp for Teens. 2:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. To help teens become more proficient in MS PowerPoint. Class is free and open to the public. Reservations are required. To register online (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “First Colony Branch,” and find the program, or call 281-238-2800.

INTERNET JOB-SEARCH WORKSHOP At Missouri City Branch Library from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway. Program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Library at 281238-2100 or 281-633-4734..

MONDAY, AUGUST 8 CHILD ADVOCATES TRAINING CLASS Child Advocates of Fort Bend is offering a week-long training class to train volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. Child Advocates of Fort Bend currently serves more than 400 children each month through its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program and Children’s Advocacy Center. Volunteers must be over 21 years of age, complete an application and interview, and submit to background screening. For more information or an application, please contact Volunteer Services at 281-344-5258 or kjordin@cafb.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 CHEMO CAP OUTREACH St. Catherine of Sienna Episcopal Church, located at 4747 Sienna Parkway, is sponsoring a Chemo Cap Outreach. Starting August 12th and meeting the 2nd Friday of each month, those who crochet, knit, or sew are invited to join others from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. making chemo caps for those in need. Participants should bring their own supplies – acrylic or cotton preferred – no wool. Patterns are available at the church. Contact Melinda melinda@siennachurch.org. 281-778-2046 for information.

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Low Cost Animal Wellness Clinic 713-433-6421 14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org • Spay/Neuter surgeries • Wellness Exams • Vaccinations • Heartworm tests, prevention and treatment • Flea and tick medication • Microchipping

COMIC-BOOK FANS ASSEMBLE

Starting at 10:30 am, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Saltwater Surf and Pier Fishing. The program is free and open to the public. For more info call 281-342-4455 or 281-633-4734.

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from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. People who enjoy reading and collecting comic books are invited to share their favorite comic-book stories. Intended for ages 13 and up. For more info call 281-238-2800 or 281-633-4734.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 SALTWATER FISHING BASICS

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PAGE 14 H Wednesday, July 27, 2016

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

‘Murder and Moore’ mystery party is this weekend The Fort Bend Museum is partnering once again with the actors of Rosenberg’s CAST Theatrical Company for a hilarious night of whodunit at the 1883 John and Lottie Moore Home. Set for Friday, July 29, and Saturday, July 30, from 7-9 p.m., the fourth annual Murder and Moore event will take guests back to the decade of big hair, leg warmers and stirrup pants – and they have

to solve the murder mystery before the evening’s finished. “The mystery story begins on a balmy evening in July of 1986. With the oil crisis hitting Texas and the Cold War dampening spirits, the docents of the Fort Bend Museum decide to lighten the somber mood with a soiree at the Moore Home,” said Site Director Shereen Sampson. “As the festivities get started, gasps are heard all around

as the body of a popular local journalist is discovered. Guests will need their ’80s attire and sleuthing skills to solve the crime.” Tickets are $45 per person or $85 per couple ($40/person or $75/couple for members) and can be purchased in advance by calling 281342-6478 or emailing info@ fortbendmuseum.org. For more information, visit www. fortbendmuseum.org.

Fort Bend Christian Academy names head of school (Submitted Photo)

Pictured from the left are Karen Lasater, Barbara Reynolds, Dee Casserly, Emily Levert, Ron Saville, Dottie Allen, Mike Thorpe and Rose Nurre.

David Pitre, Ph.D. has been named head of school for Fort Bend Christian Academy. After beginning his career as an instructor in higher education, Pitre served in-

dependent and Christian independent schools in several senior-administrative roles, including head of school, founding head of upper school, academic dean, and dean of

faculty. P i t r e has been involved in a wide variety of professional activ ities and associations,including DR. DAVID PITRE serving on a c c r e d it a tion teams in several states, participating in professional organizations such as the National Association of Independent Schools, the International Dyslexia Association, the National Association of Episcopal Schools, and serving as a member of the board of directors of the Texas Association of Nonpublic Schools. “For me to serve as Fort Bend Christian Academy’s next head of school is both a professional honor and a personal privilege,” Pitre said. “For all of FBCA’s successes, good work remains to be done as it moves into its next stage of development as a premier Christian independent school.” Pitre earned a B.A. from the University of LouisianaLafayette (formerly the University of Southwestern Louisiana), a M.A. from Virginia Tech University, and a Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina. He is married to Judy, a speech/ language therapist and reading/language clinician and diagnostician.

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