2023
READERS’ CHOICE
An introduction to Ryan Lee Reid, the ‘Piano Cowboy - Page 3
281.690.4200 WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 29, 2023
Sugar Land council approves $49 million in drainage improvement contracts Staff Reports Sugar Land City Council on November 21 approved a $4.9 million construction contract for drainage improvements in Covington West and Imperial Woods, according to a news release. The project was part of four general obligation bond propositions totaling $90.76 million approved by Sugar Land voters in November 2019. The projects included in the propositions were selected based on planning through various master plans, City Council input and the results of citizen satisfaction surveys that indicated drainage, public safety and traffic and mobility are the top three priorities for residents. More than $47 million was approved for drainage improvements, including the Covington West and Imperial Woods project that is expected to begin in December and should be finished by the fall of 2024. “This project is intended to increase our capacity to move stormwater and decrease street ponding within the Covington West and Imperial Woods neighborhoods,” City Engineer Jessie Li said in the release. “Accomplishing this objective requires understanding the limitations and deficiencies of the existing drainage systems that serve the neighborhood and recommending improvements that are both functionally efficient and financially effective. Two previously completed drainage projects in Covington Woods will allow this project to reduce adverse impacts to the Covington Woods drainage ditch.” City staff obtained a 30-year zero interest loan from the Texas Water Development Board for design and construction. Based on current interest rates, the loan could save taxpayers about $1.8 million, according to the release. The project generally includes a combination of storm sewers, small water lines, manholes, sanitary sewers and pavement reconstruction/pedestrian improvements (i.e., roadway reconstruction, sidewalks, wheelchair ramps, curbs, driveway reconstruction, removal/re-installation of street signs and pavement markings, removal/replacement of mailboxes and yard drain pipes) along: ·Arcadia Drive between Michele Drive and Greenway Drive; ·Greenway Drive between Arcadia Drive and Mason Road; ·Mason Road between Greenway Drive and Oakwood Lane; · Oakwood Lane between Mason Road and Lynnwood Lane; and · Lynnwood Lane between Oakwood Lane.
SEE IMPROVEMENT PAGE 2
Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 48 • No. 61 • $1.00
Visit www.FortBendStar.com
Missouri City resident to receive presidential lifetime achievement award By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Missouri City resident Rodney Griffin has a long history of public service to the community, and it’s being recognized in a big way. On December 3, he will receive a President’s Lifetime Achievement Award at an event at City Centre in west Houston. Griffin, 77, who grew up in the Sunnyside neighborhood of southeast Houston, has lived in Missouri City since 1980. His parents, Margaret and William Griffin, were both educators and businesspeople who were adamant that their children
excel in their studies. Griffin attended Houston public schools and received a Jesse H. Jones Scholarship from the Houston Endowment, the philanthropy founded by the well-known Houston business and governmental leader. He chose to attend the University of Texas in Austin, where his older sister had already graduated. Griffin received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, with a minor in government studies, in 1970. “I’m proud to say I was in that first decade of African-American students to actually attend the University of Texas as undergraduates,” Griffin said.
Missouri City resident Rodney Griffin will receive a President’s Lifetime Achievement Award at a Houston event on December 3. Photo by Ken Fountain
The university first desegregated its undergraduate programs in 1956, he said. Griffin and his fellow Black undergrads from that era
formed an organization called Precursors Inc., who recently partnered with UT to honor and archive the history of that era with a monument and a trail of historical markers. Griffin said that if there was any benefit to the Jim Crow era that we grew up in, it was that teachers in Black schools of the time were “excellent.” “The teachers we got, if they were in today’s market, they would be in corporations somewhere, but that was all closed to them because they were Black,” he said. “So we benefited as children. We were prepared very well to meet the challenges of the
University of Texas, in terms of academics. There were other challenges. You had to be mentally tough, because there were many obstacles there because of the color of our skin.” After graduating, Griffin went to work as a curriculum writer for the Southwest Educational Development Lab in Austin, part of a nationwide program set up by Congress during the Nixon Administration. The program, now called SEDL, was designed to develop new ways of teaching that could meet the learning styles of all types of students.
SEE AWARD PAGE 2
Fort Bend Diwali See Page 4 - for more photos from the last week’s Diwali celebration
Young dancers with the Sunanda Performing Arts Center dance on the steps of Sugar Land City Hall during Fort Bend Diwali. Photo by Ken Fountain
Sugar Land Holiday Lights continues through Jan. 1 Staff Reports
The 10th annual Sugar Land Holiday Lights is ongoing through Jan. 1 at Constellation Field. Courtesy Sugar Land Space Cowboys
The 10th annual Sugar Land Holiday Lights, presented by Houston Methodist, is ongoing at Constellation Field, home of the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, located at the corner of Hwy-6 and US-90 Alternate in Sugar Land. Mobile ticketing has been implemented for all events. The ticket office
at Constellation Field is available to accommodate any ticketing issues, but all ticket purchases will be conducted online. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance for ease of entry and to save on day of event pricing. A full listing of special promotional events, which run through January 1, and ticket purchases can be
found at www.sugarlandholidaylights.com. Children 3 years and younger do not require a ticket. The Sugar Land Space Cowboys are the Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros and compete in the Pacific Coast League. They began play as the Astros’ Triple-A affiliate in 2021 and began playing under the Space Cowboys brand in 2022.
FORTBENDSTAR.COM
THE STAR
PAGE 2 • Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Sugar Land branch library to host program on Baroque art on Dec. 2 Staff Reports Fort Bend County Libraries host the latest installment of its “Art & Architecture” series with a program on Baroque Art,” on Saturday, December 2, from 2-4 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge, Sugar Land. In this segment, architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will discuss the Baroque period, a style of ornately detailed European architecture and art from the 17th and 18th centuries. Attendees will learn about the formal and spatial complexity explored by Baroque architects such as Bernini, Borromini, and Cortona, and hear about the influence of artists such as Titian, Tinoretto, and Caravaggio. Akhtar will also show
IMPROVEMENT FROM PAGE 1
The project also includes a drainage channel approximately 260 feet east of Oakwood Lane. A public engagement meeting is planned for after prior to start of construction. The projects will involve temporary lane closures. Notifications will be provided via the city’s website, HOA notifications and social media. Visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/CIPStoryMap for updates on capital improvement projects or www.sugarlandtx. gov/NotifyMe to sign up for notifications about road closures and service interruptions caused by city
how developments in science, navigation, and exploration impacted the Baroque period. Those attending the program will also hear how art and architecture were used in the service of religious propaganda in the European counter-reformation movement. Akhtar is an assistant professor of architecture at Prairie View A&M University. She received her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania and taught art and architecture history for 20 years. She has practiced as an architect in the United States, England, Scotland, Jordan, and Pakistan. She is the author of “Of Colour and Form” and numerous articles on art and architecture. The program is free and open to the public. For construction and maintenance projects. For more information
Architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will discuss the Baroque period of architecture and art during a presentation at the Sugar Land Branch Library on Dec. 2. Courtesy Fort Bend County Libraries
more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib. tx.us<http://www.fortbend. lib.tx.us>), or call the Sugar Land Branch Library (281238-2140) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734). about the 2019 bond election, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/GObonds.
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
AWARD FROM PAGE 1
After about three years with SEDL, he went to work for the City of Austin in its administration management program, ultimately becoming a division head. After several years there, he decided to return with his family to Houston, where he became an engineer with the then-telephone company Southwestern Bell (part of what is now AT&T). He also did work with a telecommunications consulting firm. After the Bell system was broken up because of a court decree, Griffin went into business for himself, first in real estate and later in insurance (Although mostly retired now, he still keeps a hand in both businesses.) That’s about the time he and his family moved to Missouri City. “It was growing and growing. This was a bedroom community at that time. You worked in Houston and this is where you came here to sleep,” he said. “Of course, that’s beginning to change as the city is growing and the county is growing.” Griffin has a first-hand view of that growth from his position on the Fort Bend County Appraisal Review Board, to which he was appointed by former 268th District Court Judge R. O’Neal Williams in January 2022. He says he treats his service on the board as if it’s a fulltime job.
“I spend a lot of time in Rosenberg,” he joked. “I feel a strong commitment to make sure that many voices are represented,” he said of his service on the appraisal review board and his previous work on the Missouri City Planning & Zoning Commission. He’s also been heavily involved in promoting candidates of underrepresented communities to the Missouri City City Council. More recently, he’s been involved in the recent effort to revitalize the Texas Parkway business corridor. “I’ve been here 44 years, and I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. I want to believe we’re moving back toward the good,” he said of the corridor’s future prospects, which he said would alleviate some of the tax burden on homeowners. Griffin and his wife Jan, an early Black alumna of Rice University, have also been very involved in volunteer activities and organizations, including the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The couple have four children and eight grandchildren. The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (now in its fourth year) is an outgrowth of President George H.W. Bush’s “Points of Light” program, designed to highlight the service of leading members of the volunteer community across the nation. In the announcement of the award, Griffin was cited for being a White House guest
at the Fiftieth Civil Rights Summit; an alumnus of the Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Forum; being named a Jesse H. Jones Scholar by the Houston Endowment, his service on the appraisal review board; and for being the first officer of the Texas Democratic Party to endorse Barack Obama, then the junior senator from Illinois, for the U.S. presidency. Griffin will receive the award from Dr. Sonia White, a dentist and head of the S.M.I.L.E Foundation, a Houston-based nonprofit that focuses on mentorship of minority youth. As part of the event, Griffin will receive a letter signed by President Joe Biden with a presidential seal and a certificate attesting the award, as well as a medal. “It means the world,” Griffin said of receiving the award. “I can’t think of a better way to culminate a lot of my career. I’ve been involved since I was knee-high to a duck with my parents, with their own involvement, and it’s carried over with me over the years. I’m just tickled pink.” Griffin said he hopes his example can inspire young people to purse a similar path of service. “My focus is bringing along younger people, especially from underserved communities, to getting on a path of achievement, and being recognized for who they are. They can be themselves and make a contribution to their communities.”
Fort Bend holiday events get into full gear this weekend
When it comes to local advertising Staff Reports
Sugar Land City Council recently approved a $4.9 million construction contract for drainage improvements. File photo by Ken Fountain
713-433-6421 14700 Almeda Rd Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org
NEUTRON Hi there, my name is Neutron! I enjoy eating treats and hanging with my friends! I enjoy eating treats and hanging with my friends! Neutron is such a friendly and handsome boy that is waiting to find his FURever home! ADOPT NEUTRON!
The holiday season is in full swing, and there are a host of activities in coming days to celebrate them. On Friday, December 1, the City of Sugar Land Town Square will host the popular Christmas Tree lighting event at Sugar Land Town Square. Attendees will be able to enjoy the “Let It Snow” photo booth opportunity sponsored by Champion Energy and unleash their creative side with holiday crafts provided by Board & Brush Sugar Land. Strolling characters, ice sculptures and other joyous activities will be on offer. The main stage will come alive with performances from local schools and dance groups. The “Chill Zone” provided by Kelsey Care will offer LED décor and activities. Children will have the opportunity to spend time with Santa at the “Santa Experience” sponsored by One Medical, which will also include a station for writing letters to Santa.
Toward the end of the night, a brief introduction from Mayor Joe Zimmerman and City Council members will take place, with a special visitor to join in the traditional countdown to the tree lighting. A short display of snow and cold sparks will follow. Onsite food and beverages will be available for purchase, and event entry and parking will be free. Shuttles will be provided to and from Mercer Stadium, 16403 Lexington Blvd., for all participants. A detailed schedule of the evening’s events is available at www.SugarLandTX. gov/TreeLighting. On Saturday, December 2, the City of Missouri City will host its 40th annual Snowfest. The all-day celebration offers events and activities the whole family will enjoy, including an early morning fun run, a parade with floats representing various community organizations, carnival rides, a snow-covered hill, a tree lighting, fireworks show, and so much more! Admission is
free to all events. Begnning at 8 a.m., the Snowfest Shuffle, a 1-mile fun run, will take place on Cartwright Road, beginning at the Missouri City Tennis & Recreation Center, 2701 Cypress Point Drive. A toy donation is required in lieu of registration. At 9 a.m., the Snowfest Parade will be held, beginning at Cartwright Road and FM 1092 and ending at the Foodarama parking lot in the Quail Valley Shopping Center. From 3-8 p.m., the Snowfest Festival and Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Parkway. The outdoor festival will feature a giant snow hill, carnival rides, performers, music and delicious foods from local businesses. There will also be a holiday market with local vendors and pictures with Santa. The celebration ends with the tree lighting and fireworks at 6 p.m. Free parking and shuttles will be available from Thurgood Marshall High School, 1220 Buffalo Run.
The Sugar Land Tree Lighting Ceremony is one of several upcoming holiday events in Fort Bend County. Courtesy Sugar Land Town Square
& let us helpit boost When your business! comes to local
advertising Call 281.690.4200 to see how we can help freshen up your impact!
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 • PAGE 3
The Reid Feed: An introduction to Ryan Lee Reid, the ‘Piano Cowboy’ By Janet Sue Reid CULINARYCOWGIRL@REIDFEED.COM
Editor’s note: This week we offer an introduction to Ryan Lee Reid, one half of our new arts and culture columnist duo, along with his wife, Janet Sue Reid. Janet is the author of the piece. Ryan Lee Reid is an American neoclassicist musician in Sugar Land, Texas. He composes, sings, performs, and educates. Just as diverse as Sugar Land itself, he is an amalgamation of different musical genres, multicultural influences, and the echoes of the deep roots of Texas music that reverberates through modern music today in ways unknown to most people. I first met Ryan Lee in Houston. I was looking for an eclectic musician for an obscure project who could blend electronic music with jazz, classical, and vintage dark film noir sounds… and sing. I thought this was going to be impossible because seriously, who does this? Then, I came across his website and it was kismet. On the surface, Ryan Lee looks like a modern urban cowboy. His cowboy hat itself tells a story filled with musical legend. It was hand-embroidered, shaped, and fitted by Alex Sledge, of Paris Hatters in San Antonio, family-owned and operated since 1917. Making cowboy hats for musicians including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Luciano Pavarotti, Sledge created Ryan Lee’s cowboy hat to pay homage to the influence Texas swing music had on him with the spirit of
Al Stricklin, known as “the Ol’ Piano Pounder” of Bob Wills’ original Texas Playboys band. “My earliest memories are of my dad and I listening to and singing along to old Bob Wills songs like ‘Right or Wrong’ and ‘Goin’ Away Party’ in his pickup truck,” Ryan says. However, the rest of Ryan Lee’s appearance is as eclectic as his music, His cowboy hat is worn with a Johann Sebastian Bach shirt, a long geometrical white and green duster, big black boots by the Brooklyn art collective MSCHF, and retro ‘80s reflective sunglasses. Naturally, upon seeing him, you may wonder, who is this guy and where did he come from? Ryan Lee is as Texan as you can get. He has been playing piano for 30 years. He was born in Conroe in 1987 and grew up in Spring. His family, originally from west Texas, has been in Texas for multiple generations. At age 6, his mother enrolled him in classical piano lessons. He became obsessed with classical music and would force his friends to listen to Chopin and Rachmaninov during sleepovers. His playlists were not popular or wellreceived by his elementary school crowd. He continued to learn classical piano and compete in several competitions. As he soon outgrew his local piano teacher, his mother began to drive him three hours to Sam Houston University for piano lessons so he could train under its renowned keyboard professor, Dr. Clive Swansbourne.
Ryan Lee Reid is an American neoclassicist musician in Sugar Land. He is one half, with his wife Janet Sue Reid, of the Fort Bend Star’s arts-and-culture columnist duo. Photo by Janet Sue Reid
In college, Ryan Lee heard “Blue in Green” by jazz pianist Bill Evans, and it completely changed the trajectory of his life. He transitioned from pure classical to jazz because, he says, “I could play complex Beethoven sonatas but if someone asked me to play something simple like ‘Happy Birthday’ without sheet music, I couldn’t do it.” He wanted to be able to truly play by ear, improvise outside the scope of traditional classical music, and create beautiful impressionist harmonies. He then began training under local jazz piano legend, Paul English. Ryan Lee shut out the world and for 10 years did nothing but absorb, practice,
and create music with the philosophy of jazz music. In this process, he learned “how to take apart music and put it back together in new ways.” His musical style has continued to evolve, “I consider myself a bit of a musical chameleon. I switch between classical, jazz, Western swing, hip hop, country, blues, and funk to name a few.” He has since performed all around the world. However, he says, his favorite venues are “the small cafe haunts that fit like 50-100 people.” Texas music has deeply impacted him. “It taught me how important this region was to the development of American music as
a whole. From the iconic ragtime music of Scott Joplin to the soulful boogie-woogie of Charles Brown, our local music has vast influence. For example, Leadbelly wrote the song, ‘Midnight Special’, while he was in the old Sugar Land prison, the Central Unit, on the north side of Highway 90A by the train tracks. ‘Midnight Special’ was about the train that passed through Sugar Land to Houston as a light of hope and salvation. Every time I hear the train pass by our home at night in Sugar Land, I can’t help but think of Leadbelly and how he needed to ‘let the Midnight Special shine a light on me’.” Ryan Lee and I moved to Sugar Land with our two
children for its “diversity, charm of a small town within minutes of a big city.” He loves the different types of music Fort Bend offers. “You can check out a large show at Smart Financial Centre, an intimate concerto at the Fort Bend Symphony, or a more locally targeted performance at Crown Festival Park.” He also has built a music studio in Sugar Land with his beloved Steinway D concert grand piano, a vocal booth, and full recording capabilities. As for what Ryan Lee is working on now, he states, “The sounds of Sugar Land have inspired me to work on a passion project. I feel as though I have a musical obligation to educate others and keep Texas music traditions alive.” He is currently putting together a series on the roots of Texas music focusing mostly on music from 1850 - 1950. He also has visions for our local community. “Fort Bend is the best microcosm of multicultural music you’ve never heard of. Cultures and music collide here to make sounds that are distinct to our community.” He’s passionate about “featuring local artists in The Fort Bend Star to draw more attention to our thriving arts scene.” Janet Sue Reid, “The Culinary Cowgirl”, and Ryan Lee Reid, “The Piano Cowboy”, are artists and creators. They transform space and time to move and heal people through art. They live in Sugar Land with their children. Find their full bios and contact them through ReidFeed.com.
WE GIVE THANKS TO DR. CHRISTIE WHITBECK FBISD SUPERINTENDENT
R O C K S TA R A C H I E V E M E N T S
re A You A , eader L e n i Genu rting Suppo And nts Stude ers Teach INCLUDE
Leading the Shift in Culture to Kindness & Caring
Reduced a $47 Million Deficit & Balanced FBISD Budget
Moved from the Greatest Loss in Students to Opening Schools and Highest Recorded Enrollment in FBISD History
Passed a $1.26B Bond - First Time Ever in District History for 3 Rebuilds of Old Schools
Passed First Ever FBISD VATRE (Prop A) $35 Million in Yearly Revenue for Teacher and Staff Pay
Increasing Teacher Pay from Lagging to LEADING
Supporting School Choice within FBISD Opening Transfers to Fort Bend Students
Forward Progress in Overall Student Achievement Gains, and Diagnosing & Reevaluating Special Needs Students Post COVID
OUR FORT BEND COMMUNITY RECOGNIZES YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS!
PAGE 4 • Wednesday, November 29, 2023
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Diwali celebration at Sugar Land Town Square Photos by Ken Fountain Fort Bend Diwali, presented by Fort Bend County Judge KP George, Vedic Fair 111 and Indo-American Hindu Organizations was held at Sugar Land Town Square on Nov. 19. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by many of the religions of South Asia, including Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains. The holiday represents the triumph of good over evil. Dancers with Anyone Can Dance perform.
Young participants in the costume contest are seen on stage.
Members of Abhinaya School of Performing Arts are seen before going on stage.
Attendees fill the plaza of Sugar Land Town Square to watch the Fort Bend Diwali festivities.
Nuns and members of the Universal Door Meditation Center perform a song about finding peace of mind during the event.
One of the Fort Bend Diwali festival’s many vendors displays her wares.
Rashmi Moorjani, of Richmond, who owns and operates the Ethnic Styles boutique, displays some of her clothing.
A woman from Houston-based Govinda’s Vegetarian Cuisine offers food to attendees.
F O R T B E N D S TA R . C O M • 713-371-3740
THERE’S A
BETTER APPROACH TO CANCER CARE in Sugar Land
At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in Sugar Land. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
The Woodlands
Willowbrook
Katy-West Houston Baytown Texas Medical Center
281.274.7500 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl
Sugar Land
Clear Lake
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 • PAGE 5
EDITORIAL The maroon parachute ing other teams’ signals, not even illegal recruiting, but about his salary. He is going to collect $76.8 million from Texas A&M even if he lands another coaching job. Add on to what the Aggies might have to pay his fired assistants and we are looking at maybe $100-million.
Lynn Ashby Columnist
By Lynn Ashby ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET
T
exas A&M Chancellor John Sharp was asked (for the zillionth time), “When are the Aggies going to play the Longhorns in football?” Sharp looked skyward and sighed, slowly, “We. Could. Make. So. Much. Money.” Chancellor Sharp, maybe you should start booking the Longhorns every fall Saturday. You may need So. Much. Money. to pay off John James Fisher, Jr., aka Jimbo. As the whole football world – including Rice – knows, Jimbo was fired as head football coach at Texas A&M, and virtually every news story had in the first paragraph, not his won-loss record, not a scandal about steal-
This is a self-inflicted wound. Prior to the 2021 season, A&M extended Fisher’s contract passed its original 10 years and bumped his annual pay from $7.5 million to more than $9 million. This is an unheard amount, even in the skyrocketing world of college coaches’ salaries. Heretofore, the largest payout to a fired coach was Auburn’s $21.45 million to Gus Malzahn after the 2020 season. The Aggies blew by that without a thought. The reports are that the A&M regents met on the Thursday before the Saturday game against Mississippi State, and decided Jimbo must go. We can only imagine the conversation among the old Ags who got to be a regent by donating heavily to whatever governor appointed them, and flew to College Station in their private jets. So we aren’t
talking about the Pals of Poverty. One regent speaks up: “We just gotta get rid of ol’ Jimbo. I’m catchin’ hell from my fellow Aggie billionaires.” Says another regent, “Y’all get ready for the blowback from those woke professors who have their priorities all mixed up. So I’ll kick in -where’s my checkbook? – say, a million. What about you, J.J. and Bubba?” Money is not a problem. Texas A&M has an athletic department budget (read: football) right up there with The University of Texas as the biggest in the nation. It had $193 million in revenue and $177 million in expenses in 2022. (With 73,284 students, A&M has the highest enrollment in the nation.) But is that being tapped to pay off Jimbo? A&M athletic director Ross Bjork told reporters, “Let me be very clear … Texas A&M athletics and the 12th Man Foundation will be the sole sources of the necessary funds in covering these transition costs. We will use unrestricted contributions within the 12th Man Foundation for the first one-time payments, and the athletic department will fund the remaining payments for
the remaining portion by growing our revenues and adjusting our annual operating budget accordingly. This will only involve athletics and 12th Man Foundation funds.” We’ve all seen those maroon pickups with their 12 Man decals. Honk if you love patsies. Who would give so much money and why? T. Boone Pickens gave the athletic department at his alma mater, Oklahoma State U., more than $400 million, the largest donation to a university’s athletic program in collegiate history. At halftime during a game at (where else?) T. Boone Pickens Stadium, he was asked by a TV reporter why Pickens hadn’t given some money to, for example, the school’s English Department. “Because if I had given that money to the English Department you wouldn’t be interviewing me now.” Virtually all college football coaches who get fired is because of a lousy won-loss record. Jimbo’s wasn’t really that bad. He was 45–25 overall at College Station, but over his final three seasons, the Aggies were 19–15 overall, 10–13 in the SEC, and 12–14 against Power Five schools. That wasn’t good
enough, yet being the head football coach in Aggieland is any coach’s dream. A top budget, first-class facilities, a huge staff of helpers and rabid supporters. If you’ve never been to an Aggie home game, it is like no other college athletic contest, trust me – yell leaders (every other school calls such creatures cheer leaders but the Aggies are, shall we say, different), massive alumni (called former students for the same reason) and undoubtedly the best college band in America. Those games are fantastic. (The Aggies averaged 102,297 fans for their four conference home games this season.) Such a situation leads to A&M consistently recruiting the best high school football players money can buy. (Don’t ask.) This Aggie humiliation is only the latest in a string of fumbles. A famed Black journalist and scholar, Dr. Kathleen McElroy, a graduate of A&M and a tenured prof at the UT-Austin school of journalism, was, with great fanfare, poached from UT to head up the recreated Aggie school of journalism. Then some influential former students discovered Dr. McElroy had worked for 20 years at
The New York Times. Regent Mike Hernandez warned, “It is common knowledge that they are biased and progressive leaning.” She left with a one-million dollar goodbye, and the school’s president resigned. Then there is the embarrassing story of A&M professor Joy Alonzo who was placed on administrative leave after she was accused of making personal attacks against Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. The 12th Man Trust was set up to fund athletes. The IRS said no and the fund was dissolved. In a press release it said, “The last thing we would want to do is bring any dishonor to Texas A&M University.” It’s too late. Well, Jimbo is gone, and the spot is open. Today the worst job in Texas is being A&M athletic director Bjork. He will earn it. His annual salary is $1,450,000. Since he drew up Jimbo’s contract, maybe Bjork should help pay. His phone is ringing off the wall with applicants wanting to be the next multi-million- dollar coach at chaotic Aggieland. Just remember, applicants, maroon is also a verb. Ashby applies at ashby2@ comcast.net
@FORTBENDSTAR
THE LEADER PUZZ
EXPERIENCED IN TOTAL HOME REPAIRS! Roof Replacement & Repairs Shower, Siding & Additions
Ans
• Framing • Sheetrock • Painting • Fences • Concrete/Granite • Tile, Brick & Laminate • Tree Service
832-860-1054
Worship Directory FORT BEND COUNTY
METHODIST CHURCH
EPISCOPAL
CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888
ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602
A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Rev. Dr. Daniel Irving, Senior Pastor Sunday Schedule 9:30 am Blended Worship 9:30 am Sunday School for all ages 11:00 am Traditional & Contemporary Worship www.christchurchsl.org
605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477 SUNDAY: 10:30 am Worship Holy Eucharist www.allsaints-stafford.org
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge Rd. -Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reverend Dr. Fred Seay, Pastor Sunday Worship In Person 11:00 am / Nursery Available Worship Online on YouTube www.fpcsl.org
Introduce Your Congregation to the Community with a listing in our Worship Directory
Call Anqunette for more information
713.371.3740
CHURCH OF CHRIST
STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 Stephen Higley, Preacher Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am Sunday Worship 10:30 am Wednesday 7:00 pm www.staffordcoc.com
Scripture of the week
“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.” - HEBREWS 11:3
ACROSS
1. Mimics 5. Ed Murrow’s home 8. Semitic gods 10. Print errors 13. Shared 15. Intestinal inflammation 16. Word element meaning ear 17. English romantic poet 19. Proofreading symbol 21. Marten pelt 22. Brew 23. Liquid body substances 25. Born of 26. Large primate 27. Aba ___ Honeymoon 29. Indian solder 32. NYSE regulator 33. Be incorrect 34. Badger groups 36. Gangster pistols 38. Hearing receptor 39. Gone by 42. “Heir of Fire” author Sarah 44. Short-term memory 45. Egg-shaped nut
713-371-3740
palms 47. Invests in little enterprises 49. “_______ Daniel Webster” 53. Busy, honey or quilting 54. Supplies with air 55. Repository 57. Verbal approvals 58. Make joyful 59. 1/100 yen 60. Lam___: 12th hebrew letter (pl)
Down
1. Diminishes 2. Set free 3. Consume 4. Salem-Leckrone Airport 5. Rowing team 6. Gusto (Italian) 7. Territory ruled by a Satrap 9. Disseminates 10. Other 11. Appellation 12. Arthur __ Stadium (USTA) 13. Seed container 14. Paradoxical Zen question 15. Runs disconnected
18. Rainbow Effect (abbr.) 20. Chalk remover 24. Assist in some wrongdoing 26. Main arterial vessels 28. Unreturned serve 30. Brain wave instrument 31. Baby carriage 34. Image recorders 35. Indian frocks 37. Jewish day of rest 38. Earliest anesthetic 40. Hair product 41. So. Am. wood sorrels 43. Blockades 44. Pierce 45. The class of birds 46. Stake 48. After B 50. Comedian Letterman 51. British School 52. 1996 presidential candidate 56. Radioactivity unit
W
THE STAR
PAGE 6 • Wednesday, November 29, 2023
C LASSIFIED EMPLOYMENT
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
A DS
CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200
LEADER PUZZLER SOLUTIONS PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
NOW SIFIED C L A SHIRING FUN, FAST PACED fun,ENVIRONMENT fast paced NOW environment 832-757-1836 HIRING
A DS
CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200
IMPROVEMENT
20500 Southwest Fwy • Richmond, TX 77469
fun, fast paced environment
HOME
WORD SCRAMBLE
CRYPTO FUN
BASEBALL
A. trees B. parks C. enjoyment D. trails
(Mis)adventures in broadcast news Mark Garay Columnist
By Mark Garay MARKGARAY426@GMAIL.COM
“Well, I could’ve been an actor, but I wound up here / I just have to look good, I don’t have to be clear / Come and whisper in my ear / Give us dirty laundry” - Don Henley, “Dirty Laundry”
I
still don’t know exactly how it happened. It was clear. Plain as day. Glaringly obvious. But somehow, I mistook it and, inexplicably, said it.
I was working at Houston’s favorite ABC affiliate, subbing through the morning shift. Anchoring the news is often much more pleasant than reporting it is. As a local tv news anchor you get to stay in the building and avoid the inevitable spontaneous combustion that comes with having to wear a suit outside in Houston during August.
It’s also easier because the shift is more regimented and thus more predictable, both qualities I appreciate. For example, that particular morning, in addition to the regular hours-long format, my responsibilities included assuming the solo anchor chair to deliver five-minute updates near the tops and bottoms of our Central Standard Time Zoned mornings. This was something I’d done a zillion times before, not only here in Houston but at four markets I’d previously worked. I’d already reviewed the few scripts needed to fulfill the required five minutes, split by a 30-second break and a hard toss to my weatherman for an additional 30-second recap. The final script was about something going on in Guam. It began like this: “Educators in Guam are concerned about a sudden rise in the number of students playing hockey. The trend has grown by 12 percent since November. Parents are especially concerned about the rampant hockey as well. School officials say hockey will not be tolerated. And plans are underway to curb this persistent problem.” The obvious problem is that I mistook “hockey” for “hooky”.
I should have known something was up when I saw the floor director and teleprompter girl giggling out of the corner of my eye. But I am, admittedly, not the fastest engine at Talladega. I didn’t even realize my mistake until I tossed to the commercial break. Geez! I’m such a moron! What do I do now? “20 Seconds!” Do I acknowledge my idiocy? Or do I call attention to it by apologizing? I will acknowledge. “10 Seconds!” Ok. What do I say? Jokes usually buy me out of these situations. But how do I make this funny in the short 5 or 10 seconds I have left? News viewers aren’t looking for Dave Chappelle. “5 Seconds!” C’mon Garay. Make a decision, for God’s sake! “And we’re back. That’s it for this edition of eyewitness news. Thanks for joining us. Be sure to tune into Live At Five tonight where the Governor is warning of spending cuts. Also, how will the Astros handle the loss of their best starting pitcher? And finally, we’ll ask Liberty County’s oldest woman how to make it so gracefully to 97 years old. Until then, have a great day.” This wasn’t the first time
I’d read incorrectly on air. I recall hearing a name for this phenomenon. As it turns out, there’s a news phrase which I’d learned from my first news director to describe this very syndrome. It was called “Anchor Gaze”. And I committed it four times during my 25-year career. The perception that news is generally considered serious is of course accurate. People are interested in bad news, and local newscasts act accordingly. But every news organization has had its share of “Spinal Tap” moments. There are plenty of examples on YouTube. But rarely do we get any details behind the scenes. For example: Marvin Zindler, a Houston TV legend, now deceased. His commentaries and weekly rat-and-roach report blended smoothly with Houston’s downhome messaging, which included his outsized personality, blue sunglasses and volume. Marvin always showed up to work dressed to the nines. He’d occasionally hang out around my desk. He’d often talk about the events of the day and how he felt about them. That’s all well and good, but not while I’m trying to make a 4 p.m. deadline. Also, his voice car-
ried down the hall when he expressed displeasure. I loved Marvin, albeit in smaller doses. 1993 Las Vegas: I anchored morning and noon newscasts. Our weatherman was a David Letterman loyalist, who pursued the job in Vegas so he could also do his standup act and get discovered. He had this idea to call viewers at home to report how the weather was where their loved ones were, family, friends and even spouses out of town on business, all live on the air. One morning, he called a woman whose husband was in St. Louis on business. The entire studio went into shock when a man answered. The awkward banter that followed made headlines. But knowing this dude as I did, something didn’t sit right. That weathermen finally acknowledged that the whole thing had been staged. He’d enlisted the help of a married couple to play along. Eventually management found out. I was disgusted that he jeopardized our reputations just to pull off an on-air gag. He was lucky he kept his job. 2006 Houston: A reporter with whom I worked seemed to be having a hard time waking up early and getting to the studio. He’d been warned sev-
eral times to get it together. Some people just don’t do well in the morning, I’ve noticed. And no matter how early you go to sleep, there are those fated not to perform at an early hour, especially with the bubbliness you have to fake in the darkness behind morning local reporting. This particular morning, this particular reporter once again failed to arrive on time. Hours later, the police called. Our reporter had claimed he was kidnapped on the way in to work, forced to drive to Beaumont, and empty his bank account via an open ATM. There was no physical evidence related to his account, nor was there clear evidence he’d lied. Management had its suspicions. He was gone in a month. I’m sure every industry has its moments. But mistakes in front of live cameras can be hilarious, and the television business does tend to take itself a little too seriously. So when it does happen, it can get juicy. But if you ever stumble on a news story that includes the words, “Guam” and “hockey” in the same sentence, please let me know. Somehow, it would make me feel better. Garay, a Sugar Land resident, can be reached at MarkGaray426@gmail.com
Listen to the (holiday) music Ken
Fountain Editor
By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
W
ell, we’re squarely in the post-Thanksgiving holiday season again. This year, it sure seemed to take its time getting here.
I don’t know about you, but the holidays have long been a somewhat ambiguous time for me. The older I get (don’t ask), the more I seem to like the idea of them more than the actual lived experience. The anticipation, the build-up, and the sheer ubiquitousness of them somehow leaves me feeling a little flat by the New
Year. Before you start calling me a Scrooge or a Grinch or whatever, please understand - I like the holiday season, always have. But more and more, I seem to notice that the reality doesn’t always match up with the expectations. This was brought home to me recently when I paid a visit to the local mall, where I almost always check in at the bookstore. It wasn’t yet Thanksgiving, but already the in-store sound system was playing wall-to-wall Christmas music. Again, I happen to like a lot of Christmas music, especially the older stuff. But it seems to be that it’s appearing earlier and earlier with each passing year. Years ago, I adopted a strategy of avoiding it as much as possible until about a week before the Big Day. Everything in moderation and all of that. As an aside, that reminds me: I have twice worked retail during the holiday season. One of my first jobs after I left the Navy was wrapping
gifts at a major department store in San Diego. I worked as a sales associate at another store here at First Colony Mall shortly after returning to Texas. I still have ugly flashbacks to Black Friday. While you’re out shopping this year, please be kind to the hard-working folks who are helping you. I mentioned last week that I just passed my one-year anniversary as editor and lead reporter for the Fort Bend Star. Last year at this time, we were all still very concerned about the COVID pandemic. This year, that concern is much lessened. As was to be expected, cases are rising with the winter months, but hospitalizations are down, according to medical authorities. A couple of months ago, I had my first experience with COVID (I had vainly begun to think I had some sort of immunity.) Thankfully, my symptoms were mild, and I had fully recovered within a week. In fact, I was able to put
out that week’s edition of the paper on the day when I was feeling at my worst. On another personal note, two friends and former colleagues died of different causes (not COVID) within the same week during the summer. That one-two punch, followed in short order by both their respective memorial services, led to a great deal of reflection about not only both of them and what they had meant in my life, but how I was processing the grief I felt. I guess this is another consequence of getting older. (One of those friends, by the way, happened to LOVE Christmas music, and often filled his Facebook page with it during the season.) We also, of course, have experienced the world’s hottest year on record, felt acutely here in Texas. Those several months were maddening for me. I now work mostly from home, but since the pandemic I have often taken breaks during the day to go on walks
T H E M O N T H LY
BUSINESS MAGAZINE Digital Version on Fortbendstar.com 713-371-3740 • AWILLIAMS@TXSTREETMEDIA .COM
around my neighborhood. It helps clear my head and motivate me for the tasks ahead. But I found it harder and harder to do that over the summer and into the fall. I touched on some of this in a column in which I discussed one of my late friends. And then there’s the state of the world. We’re closing in on the second anniversary of the Russian-launched war in Ukraine. And now we have another war in the Middle East, a scene of too much violence over too many decades. Without getting too much into that situation (you can read some of my thoughts on the subject in my October 29 column), I’ll just say this: it’s very dispiriting. But it does lead me to another thought. For a few years, we kept hearing in some media channels about a supposed “War on Christmas.” This, naturally, would lead to heated debates on social media outlets. It was one of the silliest things in the world to
get angry about, because it was so phony. A few years ago, I returned to sending out holiday cards. I always buy ones that have the message “Season’s Greetings.” Two old friends of mine from my Navy days are an interfaith couple. What other message would I send them? For the life of me, I’ve never understood how recognizing that other people, including people who are near and dear to you, might not share your particular religious beliefs in any way diminishes those beliefs. In fact, it seems to me, celebrating other people’s beliefs is an affirmation of our shared humanity, which after all is the highest aspiration of all of the world’s major faiths. It seems trite to say, but that’s what the season is supposed to be all about. Peace on Earth. Good will toward men (read: people). It’s a message that permeates all of that holiday music. Just listen. Fountain carries a tune at KFountain@fortbendstar.com
THE STAR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 • PAGE 7
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to awilliams@txstreetmedia.com
FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS
ONGOING
ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264 Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281-785-7372 for more information.
SAVE THE DATE JANUARY 27, 2024 FELICIA SMITH JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION
Register now for the family fun Hope For Three Autism Advocates, Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition. This exciting event is on January 27, 2024, at Fort Bend Christian Academy, North Campus Gymnasium, 1250 7th., Sugar Land 77478. Teams of four, young and seasoned, have two hours to complete a 250-500-1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle. Awards immediately follow, and bragging rights are guaranteed! Check-in is at 9 am, and the timed competition is from 10 am to noon. The event is one way the local nonprofit raises awareness and funds for families with autistic children and loved ones. Register your team ($160) now. To volunteer, serve as a sponsor, or for autism resources, visit www.hopeforthree.org
SING FOR JOY WITH FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND AUDITIONS!
It is the most wonderful time of year for singing boys! Kick off your holiday season by attending the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s Christmas Musicale. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 8, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church-Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX 77459. The Fort Bend Boys Choir is also seeking talented young boys who like music and singing. If know of one, encourage him to audition for the award-winning and Emmy-Nominated Fort Bend Boys Choir! No experience is necessary and boys should be around eight years of age or older with an unchanged voice. At this time, auditions are by special appointment at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX. Visit the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s webpage at www.fbbctx.org or call (281) 240-3800 for more details about Christmas Musicale tickets and auditions.
AMERICAN LEGION POST 942
311 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land meets the fourth Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 pm. All Veterans are welcome.
LOVING FRIENDS IS A GROUP OF WOMEN AND MEN WHO ARE WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS THAT MEET MONTHLY FOR LUNCH, FRIENDSHIP, AND SOCIALIZATION Lunches. are planned for the fourth Tuesday of the month at various local restaurants. Please contact Bobbie Tomlin at {281} 967-0718 For more information about us and to learn about this month’s planned lunch. We hope to meet you soon.
QUAIL VALLEY GARDEN CLUB
The Quail Valley Garden Club is very busy, not only with meetings, but with some fun “stuff” for our members and the community. Please find our fall schedule of events that the QVGC will be involved with this fall leading up to the holidays.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE GRAND PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCH
In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, GPBC offers ESL classes on Tuesday nights 6-8:30 from August 22, 2023 through May 21, 2024. We are located at 12000 FM 1464 Richmond. Our students speak several languages and encompass many faiths. All are welcome. For more information call 281-277-2200 and ask for ESL information. You may also email ESL@grandparkway.org
FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS
THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES
SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB
FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND (in the Chapel) 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 FREE and Open to the Public! We welcome everybody! If you play accordion, beginners to professional and would like to play Call, Text or email: Vince Ramos Cell: 281-204-7716 vincer.music@gmail.com
FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS FOR 2022-2023 YEAR To join, the membership application can be accessed at https://www.fbjsl.org/join/how-to-become-a-member/. FBJSL will also be hosting multiple virtual and in-person recruitment events over the summer where potential new members can learn more about the League. Information regarding attending these events is available at www.fbjsl.org or on the FBJSL Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortBendJuniorServiceLeague/.
LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY We enhance lives and strengthen communities by teaching adults to read. We need your help. Literacy Council is actively recruiting Volunteer Tutors to provide instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL) Levels 0-5, three hours a week. For more information, call 281-240-8181 or visit our website www.ftbendliteracy. org
JAM WITH SAM Join Sam Grice Tuesday evenings at 6:30 for a casual evening of music. We play a variety of music including bluegrass, country, gospel and some western. We request acoustic instruments only please. We welcome both participants and music lovers who enjoy listening to good live music. There’s no charge and we welcome beginners and gladly offer gentle assistance. We meet at First Presbyterian Church, 502 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land. Please call Sam at 832-428-3165 for further information.
GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving. Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events
DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195
EXCHANGE, America’s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new members! Various Fort Bend clubs exist and can accommodate early morning (7 a.m.), noon and evening meeting time desires. For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-575-1145 or mike@reichekfinancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!
MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801
We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org
14090 S.W. Freeway Suite #200
281-243-2344 (Direct) Sugar Land, TX 281.243.2300 (Main) • KenWoodPC.com
Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 469-850-2424, dean7351@gmail.com. We’re a friendly group that meets once a week for lunch.
EXCHANGE
We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl. org/request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com
EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 35+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY
Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., Missouri City Rec Center. Lunch, education, and entertainment. All seniors over 50 invited. For more information, call 713-859-5920 or 281-499-3345.
Have a Non Profit? Need to get it out there? Put here in our community calendar!
Call now to get on the exclusive listings page
Santa Stops & Shops!
Paired with our calendar of Holiday Events and Santa Sightings in and around the community! Elf Hotline:
713-371-3714 to place your ad now!
PAGE 8 • Wednesday, November 29, 2023
THE STAR
PRESENTING SPONSOR
See us online www.FortBendStar.com