Space Cowboys' Matthews selected for All-Futures Game - Page 3
FBISD approves $901 million budget, including use of ‘disaster pennies’
Staff Reports
Most taxpayers in Fort Bend ISD will see a property tax increase after the board of trustees last week approved a $901.6 million operating budget for the 2025-25 school year. The passage of the budget did not without some angst among veteran and newer trustees alike.
For the upcoming school year, which begins September 1, the district will add seven “disaster pennies,” to the current tax rate. Those pennies are a one-time option allowed by the Texas Legislature for districts to use in the wake of a disaster, such as last year’s Hurricane Beryl.
District administrators on June 23 presented the board with three options for a budget, developed in the wake of the legislature’s recent passage of House Bill 2, the biennial bill funding the state’s public education system.
In recent meetings, the administration had told trustees that it was imperative that the district provide more funding for salaries of employees, particularly teachers. Currently ,Fort Bend ISD ranks near the bottom among its peer districts in the Houston region in teachers’ salaries. And following the COVID-19 pandemic, many teachers are seeking to move to other districts or leave the profession altogether.
But administrators warned that the legislature’s funding bill likely would not provide the increase in state funding that all the state’s public school districts needs.
The budget passed last week includes a compensation plan aimed at retaining and attracting employees with several different incentives, based on position and length of time in service. It was the third and last plan presented by administrators, who told trustees that it was based on up-to-the-minute information they had just received in a webinar presented by the Texas Association of School Boards.
The incentive plan includes signing bonuses, employee wellness days, an increase in starting teacher salary to $63,000, health and supplemental insurance incentives, stipends for bus drivers with perfect attendance, and bonuses for employees not eligible for those provided by HB2.
“This plan reflects our commitment to attract, retain and uplift the professionals that serve our students on a daily basis,” FBISD Deputy Superintendent of Operations Kathleen Brown said.
The new tax rate will be officially voted on in the fall, after the start of the school year, but administrators told trustees that they would have little room to make changes. Administrators told trustees that based on tax rate compression also approved by the legislature, most Fort Bend
Independence Day celebrations to be held across Fort Bend
Staff Reports
On Friday, July 4, people all across the United States will celebrate the nation’s most patriotic holiday, Independence Day, which marks the official beginning of the nation when the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Here in Fort Bend County we’re no exception. Municipalities across the county have events planned to mark the occasion.
Sugar Land
Constellation Field will host
“Red, White and Boom” presented by NMDP, an Independence Day celebration on July 4 from 6-10 p.m.
“Red, White and Boom”, pre -
viously hosted by the City of Sugar Land, has been relocated to Constellation Field in 2025, providing a setting in the familyfriendly venue in the city. City of Sugar Land residents can claim up to four free tickets with a special emailed access code while supplies last. Unique codes will only be sent to residents with emails on file for utility bills. To sign up for e-bill to receive your code visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/ eBilling. Tickets for the general public can be purchased for $14 each here.
All amenities at Constellation Field will be open throughout the evening, including concession stands throughout Constellation Field, the playgrounds in center field, the Splash Pad in right-
center field, MoonShot Alley and more. There will be live music presented by Bud Light, inflatables will be set up on the field, and there will also be face painting stations throughout the ballpark. The night will end with a Texas-sized fireworks show to celebrate July 4th. Parking is $5 per vehicle (card only). Lot A, B and C will be available.
Missouri City Missouri City’s patriotic tradition offers plenty of fun and excitement for the whole family at FourthFest, Friday from 5-9 p.m. 1600 Texas Parkway, behind the
HINDU CHARIOT FESTIVAL CELEBRATED IN ROSENBERG
By Juhi Varma SPECIAL TO THE STAR
More than 300 members of Fort Bend County’s Indian community gathered on June 28 at the Rosenberg campus of the nonprofit Universal Shraddha Foundation (USF) to celebrate the annual chariot festival, or ratha yatra, one of Hinduism’s most colorful and cherished traditions.
The ancient festival originated in the coastal city of Puri, in India’s Odisha state, and commemorates the
Folk
Hindu god Krishna – also known as Jagannath – and his two siblings. Once a year, their idols are placed in a richly decorated chariot and brought outside the temple, symbolizing a divine visit among the people.
“So it’s basically a festival that is for Jagannath,” said Debashri Panda, 10, a student at Katy ISD’s Woodcreek Elementary. “They take him for a ride, he goes on a ride, then everybody celebrates.”
In Puri, the procession draws tens of thousands, moving through the
city with a momentum all its own.
“Jagannath,” inspired the English word “juggernaut,” means an unstoppable force.
The procession is recreated across India and by Indian communities worldwide.
“This is the day the deities come out of the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and go among the devotees,” said Kalyan Rath, one of the main organizers. “The chariot will go all around the campus.”
The highlight of the event came
late in the evening, when devotees pulled the 22-foot pyramidal chariot around the grounds, taking turns towing the sacred cargo, dancing, and pausing for photos. Despite the scorching heat and dry summer evening, families came dressed in bright traditional attire, determined not to miss the celebration.
“We have been here since morning, packing food and getting things
Prints brings India’s textile heritage to Sugar Land
By Juhi Varma SPECIAL
Sugar Land residents now have a new destination for vibrant, handmade textiles with the opening of Folk Prints, a store dedicated to traditional Indian fabric arts. Opened on June 2 at 2452 Settlers Way Blvd., Folk Prints is owned by Saji Kollanthara, who has been championing handprinted, hand-loomed, and hand-embroidered fabrics since 2015.
“If you have ideas, we have fabric – that is our motto,” Kollanthara said. “People come here with ideas.”
Stepping into the store is like touring India’s rich textile landscape. Shelves are lined with batik (wax resist), kalamkari (textile printing) and traditionally dyed fabrics (ikat and bandhani), made by artisans using age-old techniques and natural dyes. Indigo-dyed cloth, especially, has captured the imagination of local shoppers, Kollanthara said. Kollanthar previously lived in Toronto, Canada, where he noticed a growing demand for natural and sustainable products. Recycling is also highly valued in Canada, Kollanthara said.
Hindu devotees pull a 22-foot,
decorated
chariot around the Universal Shraddha Foundation grounds in Rosenberg, taking turns
of the items on display at Folk Prints, a store dedicated to traditional Indian fabric arts which recently opened in Sugar Land. Photo by Juhi Varma
George Memorial Library offers introductory computer classes in Spanish
Community Reports
The Adult Services staff at Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond, in July will present free, introductory computer classes in Spanish on basic computer use and the Internet. The classes will consist of a hands-on introduction to basic skills for Spanish-speaking people who would like to learn more about using these computer programs.
The class, “Como Usar El Teclado (How to Use a Keyboard),” will take place on Wednesday, July 2, from 10-11 a.m., in the Computer Lab. This class presents a basic introduction to using a computer keyboard and mouse.
The class, “Explora El Sistema Operativo (Operating System Basics),” will take place on Wednesday, July 9, from 10-11 a.m., in the Computer Lab. Learn how to find documents or projects in File Explorer, save and organize files, insert USB drives, open MS Word docu-
ments, and print.
The class, “Navega El Internet (Browse the Internet),” will take place on Wednesday July 16, from 10-11 a.m., in the Computer Lab. Learn about different web browsers, effective search techniques, bookmarks, and Internet safety.
The class, "Mantenerse Seguro en Linea (Staying Safe Online),” will take place on Wednesday, July 23, from 10-11 a.m., in the Computer Lab. Learn how to recognize scams, create strong passwords, and browse safely while keeping personal information secure.
The classes are free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbendlibraries.gov), click on “Classes & Events,” select “George Memorial Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library (281342-4455), or by visiting the Adult Services reference desk at the library.
classes
Jimmie (Jim) Keith Cellner, age 86, of Meadows Place and The Woodlands, Texas, passed away on June 21, 2025. He was the only child born to Lonnie (Bus) and Rotha Cellner in Joplin, Missouri on October 29, 1938. He was a happy boy who was incredibly loved and fortunate enough to grow up surrounded by lots of family and his little dog Tip. After graduating from Joplin High School, Jim worked as a brick mason with his dad and uncles before attending college in Rolla, Missouri. Jim escaped the cold winters of Missouri in 1960 by joining the US Navy. He was stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii for 4 years. (Not bad!) He sailed the South Pacific seas for over three years on the USS Philip as a radarman, served a few months in Japan, then sailed the cold waters of the Bering Sea during his final months of service on the USS Newell. Jim was hired by GSI, a division of Texas Instruments, and moved to Dallas. There he met the love of his life Rhonda while living above her and her roommate in their apartment complex. Jim instantly knew that Rhonda was the one for him when he saw her for the first time sitting by the pool, shelling peas with her hair wrapped in giant rollers. They dated for one year and
married on September 4, 1965. Jim was transferred to Houston for two years, then to Purley, Surrey, England for four years where daughter Kandi and son Doug were born. They toured all over Europe every chance they got.
Jim’s final transfer was to Stafford, now known as Meadows Place, Texas, in 1971 where son Rodney was born. By then Jim worked for Texas Instruments where he remained for 35 years. After retirement Jim created and ran Cellner Video Productions, his son Doug working by his side. He then took a position at the Sugar Land State Prison for 8 years.
Jim and Rhonda raised their kids and lived in their Meadows Place home for 52 years before moving to The Woodlands in 2022. Jim remained completely devoted to his precious wife of 57 years
Libraries offer free computer and technology classes in July
Community Reports
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Adult Services staff will present a variety of free, introductory computer and technology classes this month. The classes will consist of a hands-on introduction to basic skills for people who would like to learn more about using these computer and technology programs. The classes will take place in the Computer Labs of the libraries; seating is limited and reservations are required unless otherwise noted.
To register online at the library’s website (fortbendlibraries.gov), click on “Classes & Events,” select the library, and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the branch libraries. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281633-4734). The schedule for July is as follows: Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd, Missouri City (281-238-2900)
· MS Excel: Basics –Tuesday, July 8, 2-3 p.m. Learn the basics of using this spreadsheet software program, which features calculation tools that are helpful for financial and statistical needs.
· 3D Printing: Bookmarks – Tuesday, July 15, 2-3 p.m. Library staff will introduce the 3D printer and explain how library users can print their own designs. This class will focus on creating bookmarks. Those attending the session will also learn about free websites that can be used to find 3D files or to create their own 3D designs. Attendees are encouraged to create an account with Tinkercad at tinkercad.com prior to the class.
· Basics of Scratch Programming – Tuesday, July 22, 2-3 p.m. Scratch is a free programming language – primarily for children but used by all ages -- with a simple visual interface that allows individuals to create digital stories, games, and animations. Library staff
will introduce the basics of Scratch coding and demonstrate how users can bring their ideas to life through interactive projects.
• MS PowerPoint: Photobook – Tuesday, July 29, 2-3 p.m.
Understand this slideshowpresentation program even better by learning more advanced functions and tools to create a digital photobook for organizing and sharing photos.
• Computer Lab: Study Hall – Tuesdays, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; 5-8 p.m. Adults and teens will have a designated time and place for studying, with access to Brainfuse Homework Help and other online resources easily available. Registration is not required.
Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge (281-238-2140)
· Intro to Computers –This class presents a basic, hands-on introduction to using computers.
o Wednesday, July 9, 10:30 a.m.
o Thursday, July 10, 6:30 p.m.
· Computer Safety – Computers and the internet can be powerful tools, but it’s important to know
how to protect yourself when using them. Learn the basics of passwords, two-factor authentication, online scams, and other strategies to keep users and information safe.
o Wednesday, July 23, 10:30 a.m.
o Thursday, July 24, 6:30 p.m.
First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land (281-238-2800)
· Drop-In Tech Help –Thursday, July 10, 2-3 p.m., Conference Room. Stop by the library for one-on-one Q&A time during this comeand-go session. Library staff is available to assist with technology-related questions about email, internet, eReaders, QR codes, and more. Those attending can bring their personal electronic device or use one of the library’s computers. Registration is not required.
Mission Bend Branch Library, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road (832-471-5900) · MX Excel 2016: Basics – Monday, July 21, 6 p.m. Learn the basics of using this spreadsheet software program, which features calculation tools that are helpful for financial and statistical needs.
even after her passing nearly three years ago. Jim was unbelievably patient and always kind. Always wanting to help others. He was a good friend and a good neighbor. He loved cars, travel, the color red, hamburgers, ginger snaps, iced tea and coffee (with two sweet and lows), pepper (lots & lots of pepper!), music, colorful flowers, the Teton Mountains, Hawaii, photography and reading magazines. Jim loved all people, especially those who would listen to his many stories. He was the GREATEST dad a kid could ever hope for. He was always present when healing our hearts and cheering us kids on as we played ball or performed on stage. He loved being Papa to his 5 grandkids.
“I’ve had a fantastic life” Dad shared near the end. And because of him, we too have too. Those left to cherish Jim’s memory are daughter Kandi Meisinger and husband Ron, grandsons Brett Meisinger (Seth) and Mitch Meisinger; Doug Cellner and wife Kaye, granddaughter Adrienne Cellner and grandson Alex Cellner; son Rodney Cellner and grandson Dawson Cellner; sister-in-law Karen Patterson.
The family will gather at a later time to celebrate Jim’s fantastic life.
Dear Mom and Dad, Camp Manaka is great. So are the meals. Tonight we had candied lamb with wonderful grilled asparagus and lemon pie. I am meeting some really nice other campers, and especially T.B.H. Chan from Waco. Today we learned how to make a belt out of snake skin. That’s better than last summer when PETA’s Friends of Reptiles insisted that first we had to kill the snake. I can hardly wait till tomorrow when we go swimming in Lake Kaffaloona. We aren’t supposed to have electronic devises but luckily I hid my iPad under the mattress.
Dear Mom and Dad, camp is still great. Tonight we had sirloin steak with mushrooms, baked potato with all the fixins’ and New York cheesecake. My two counselors, Bubba and LeRoy, couldn’t be nicer. Bubba plays football for UT and LeRoy is a rap artist. Our scheduled swim in Lake Kaffaloona was called off but I don’t why. We had a softball game today and I got to play second base. Not the second baseman but just second base. I squatted there for nine innings. The coach
A summer camp pain Transparency and a real plan needed for Imperial district, Char House
Editor’s note: The following op-ed is provided by the Fort Bend Business Coalition. This piece does not necessarily reflect the views of the Fort Bend Star or its staff. The Fort Bend Star welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Fort Bend County residents. Publication is at the discretion of the editor. Send submissions to editor@fortbendstar.com.
With a new mayor and four new council members, Sugar Land stands at a crossroads.
This is a chance for our City’s leadership to set a higher standard that puts transparency, public engagement, and fiscal responsibility first. As a Fort Bend Business Coalition (FBBC) member, I urge our new leadership to seize this opportunity and show the community that things will be done differently going forward.
Why We Care: Our Values and Commitment
The FBBC was founded to promote a strong, pro-business environment in Fort Bend County. We believe business success is built on limited government, reasonable regulations, fair taxation, and respect for private property rights. Our coalition supports policies and leaders who exercise common sense and keep the long-term prosperity of our community in mind. We care deeply about this project because major public investments, especially those involving taxpayer dollars, should reflect these values, foster real economic growth,
Lynn Ashby Columnist
ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET
said my “talents were lacking.” I miss you all, especially Fluffy.
Dear Son, thanks for your letters, we’ve read some of them. Your grades came in and we were delighted to know you won’t have to repeat the third grade again. We partially paid for your camp fee by renting out your room for the summer. The new tenants are quite nice for vagabonds. We are sending you a few items you forgot to take with you, like soap, toothpaste and underwear. Mom disposed of the Playboys you hid under your mattress, but the renters kept the Hustlers.
Dear Mom and Dad, camp is still great although there have been some changes. The
camp’s name, Manaka, was an American Indian term meaning “smelly bog.” The Biden administration changed Manaka to Fuzzy Feelings, explaining “it was the woke thing to do.” Now the Trump administration has changed the name back to Manaka which it says was named for Private Marvin Manaka “who was viciously murdered by drunken Indians.” To save money, the camp has posted the new name on Velcro just in case. Supper tonight was not so elegant: cheeseburgers and fries with a dessert of Hershey Bars.
Dear Mom and Dad, yesterday we visited Camp Koo-Che-Coo-Me right across the lake and took them on in softball (I was promoted to being third base), tennis, swimming and arm wrestling. We lost in every event. Our counselors called us “a bunch of wimps” and “total losers,” which made a lot of us cry and ask for our mommy and blankie. Supper tonight was a stale taco and Jell-O. The camp explained that the Trump administration said, “We’re tired of the American taxpayers continuing to feed
unemployed slackers.” The camp owners went to appeal at the local office of the Department of Agriculture to point out that their campers were not unemployed slackers and the camp paid for its food, but the office had been closed. Dear Mom and Dad, one of our counselors, Bubba, quit today. He just got a $100,000 check from UT for his NIL share for endorsing Jack Daniel’s, and said, “Who needs this gig?” I learned how to start a fire the Indian way with just twigs, leaves and a Zippo. Our camp nurse was let go after the Trump administration abolished socialized medicine. She went to appeal at the Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Federal Health and Human Services but it was closed as was the local fire department. Dear Son, we received a letter today from your counselor. He explained why the camp was no longer offering swimming in Lake Kaffaloona. It seems the lake was not only toxic but burning upstream. The EPA didn’t test the water mainly because there was no longer an EPA. Your counselor said you had secretly gone swimming one night in Lake
Kaffaloona but the sores will
heal as soon as they find a nurse. He has brought you a rubber sheet but wished we had told him about your bed wetting. Oh, Fluffy is recovering, but we can’t call him Fluffy right now after his run-in with Mr. McAlgernon’s pit bull. Dear Mom and Dad, tonight for supper we had leftovers from lunch. I just wished they had reheated the gruel. We will see a movie tomorrow night: “Lord of the Flies.” I think it’s about our kitchen. Did I mention that Camp Koo-Che-Coo-Me is a girls’ camp? Exciting news! Sheriff’s deputies came to camp and arrested a counselor. What’s a pedophile? And ICE agents came by, too. At least I guess they were from ICE. There were no insignias on their uniforms and no signs on their armored cars or helicopters. Rocky Chan was deported. He explained that his full name was Travis Bowie Houston Chan and he was a sixth-generation Texan. The ICE man said, “You still look foreign. Hold out your wrists.” Please send food.
Dear Son, we received a
and be managed with the highest level of transparency and accountability.
A Costly Commitment Without Clear Answers
The City’s recent decision to spend up to $50 million on acquiring and preserving the Imperial Char House and the surrounding district is one of the largest economic development commitments in Sugar Land’s history. Of that, at least $12 to $15 million will be required just to stabilize the Char House and prevent it from collapsing. This is a necessary investment to preserve an iconic piece of Sugar Land’s history, but it raises a fundamental question: What happens after the building is “mothballed” and millions have been spent?
The City has not presented any clear plan for the Char House’s future use after this initial investment. Will it become a museum, an event space, or something else? How will it generate value for the community and taxpayers? Residents deserve a detailed explanation of what comes next.
No
Private Developer Has Stepped Up: What’s the Backup Plan?
The City’s stated goal is to position the site for a future sale to a private developer. Yet, no private entity has been willing to take on this project for more than twenty years, despite incentives and repeated attempts. The most recent effort, led by Puma Development, stalled due to market and financial challenges, and the property remains undeveloped. If no developer steps up after the City’s investment, what is the plan? To date, there has been no public disclosure of contingency options if the City is left holding this costly asset.
Transparency and Public Input Are
Essential
Major projects using significant public funds must be shaped with full community input. The previous administration moved quickly, with limited disclosure and little opportunity for residents to weigh in. The new council and mayor have a chance to build trust by holding public meetings, sharing all analyses and options considered, and listening to the concerns and ideas of residents and business owners.
Let the Private Sector Lead Cities are most effective when they create the right environment for private investment, not when they take on the risks of real estate development themselves. The City must clearly outline what happens if a private partner cannot be secured, and en-
sure that any future steps are guided by a committee of qualified developers and business leaders.
A Better Path Forward
We respectfully call on Sugar Land’s new leadership to:
• Disclose all alternatives and analyses considered for the Imperial Char House project
• Commit to a transparent, public process with open meetings and real community input
• Clearly outline contingency plans if a private developer cannot be secured
• Establish a citizen advisory committee of qualified developers and business leaders to provide oversight and guidance
• Define a clear, sustainable vision for the Char House after stabilization, with community input
This is a chance for our new mayor and council to show that Sugar Land’s future will be built on openness, collaboration, and respect for the strengths of our private sector. The Fort Bend Business Coalition stands ready to help and support a process that puts transparency, professionalism, and fiscal stewardship first.
Let’s make this new chapter one that earns the trust and confidence of everyone who calls Sugar Land home. For more information about the Fort Bend Business Coalition, visit FortBendBusinessCoalition. com.
Space Cowboys’ Matthews selected to
Community Reports Sugar Land Space Cowboys infielder Brice Matthews was selected to participate in the MLB All-Star Futures Game as announced by Major League Baseball on Monday. Matthews is one of 25 players selected to the American League team. The rosters were selected with input from Major League Baseball, MLB Pipeline, Baseball America and each of the 30 Major League clubs. The 2025 MLB AllStar Futures game will take place on Saturday, July 12 at Truist
package from camp. In it was a bill for $2,100 for fire damage to your cabin. They said damage would have been less if there had been a fire department in the county. They also retuned your Zippo. Dear Mom and Dad, we went horseback riding today. Under new rules from PETA, the horses rode us. Our other counselor, the rapper LeRoy, was let go under a new federal edit that abolishes all DEI programs. LeRoy was accused of “counseling while Black.” There was a minor disturbance in the dining hall last night. Some of the campers protested roasted muskrat. It was calmer tonight. The National Guard and Marines are quite nice. Dear Son, we got another letter from your camp. “Please come get your kid. We’ll refund the fee.” Dear Mom and Dad, camp has been over for a week. Isn’t it time you picked me up? My last letters have been returned, stamped: “Addressee Unknown – No forwarding address.” Ashby goes camping at ashby2@comcast.net
Blubaugh ties career high in strikeouts, but Space Cowboys fall short on Sunday
Community Reports
EL PASO – RHP AJ Blubaugh tied his careerhigh in strikeouts with nine, including five in the first two innings, but the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (1-5, 40-41) could not overcome an early deficit, falling 9-3 against the El Paso Chihuahuas (51, 43-38) on Sunday night at Southwest University Park.
Sugar Land put runners on the corners with two outs in the top half of the first as Brice Matthews and Jon Singleton legged out backto-back infield singles to keep the inning alive, but a strikeout left them stranded.
AlthoughBlubaugh (L, 38) fanned two Chihuahuas in the bottom of the first, the Space Cowboys fell behind 2-0 as Nate Mondou hit a two-RBI single. Blubaugh responded by striking out the side in the second, running his ledger to five punchouts through two innings.
Matthews reached in the third on a fielder’s choice and Singleton took a two-out walk, but a flyout marooned the runners.
Blubaugh rang up the first two batters he faced in the home half of the third, striking out six-consecutive hitters dating back to the first, but three-straight hits with two outs from El Paso gave the Chihuahuas a 4-0 lead after three.
Omar Narváez shot an opposite-field single into left to lead off the fourth and moved up 90 feet on a wild pitch, before Colin Barber roped a two-strike base knock to right as the Space Cowboys had runners on the corners with nobody out. In the ensuing at-bat, Narváez scored on a double play as Sugar Land made it a 4-1 game.
Jesús Bastidas led off the fifth with his team-leading 22nd double and Matthews was hit by a pitch as the Space Cowboys put multiple base runners on for the second-straight inning. With two outs, Collin Price lofted an RBI single to right that plated both runners, pulling Sugar Land within a run, 4-3.
Blubaugh fired his ninth strikeout in the home half of the fifth to tie a career high as part of a scoreless frame in his final inning of work. The Chihuahuas opened the game up in the bottom of the sixth with a three-run home run from Clay Dungan as the Space Cowboys faced a 7-3 deficit entering the seventh. El Paso plated a run in the seventh and eighth, while nine of the final 10 Sugar Land batters were retired as
the Space Cowboys dropped their Sunday series-finale, 9-3.
NOTABLE:
· With a single on Sunday, Brice Matthews is 27-for-73 (.370) in his last 18 games with five doubles, three triples, three home runs, 15 RBI and 10 walks. Matthews’ 18-game on-base streak is now the longest on-base streak from a Sugar Land hitter in 2025, breaking a tie with Luis Castro, who had a 17-game on-base streak earlier in the year. Matthews also extended his hitting streak to 11 games, tying the longest hitting streak from a Space Cowboy this season.
· AJ Blubaugh tied his career high in strikeouts on Sunday with nine, his first time hurling nine strikeouts since April 1, 2025 against the Durham Bulls. Blubaugh struck out five batters in the first two innings on Saturday for the first time since September 1, 2024 against the Salt Lake Bees. After Sunday’s outing, Blubaugh ranks fourth in the PCL with 71 strikeouts. · Collin Price picked up his 11th multi hit game of the season with a 2-for-4 night with an RBI on Sunday. · Jesús Bastidas extended his on-base streak to eight games with a 1-for-5 game with a run scored on Sunday. Over his on-base streak, Bastidas is 12-for-36 (.333) with two doubles, a homer, eight RBI and six runs scored.
· In four games against El Paso this week, Colin Barber went 5-for-12 (.416) with two triples, a homer and three RBI. Barber is now batting .241, raising his batting average 55 points after his series against the Chihuahuas. After their six-game series against El Paso, Sugar Land takes on the Round Rock Express for a three-game set at home this week. Games can be seen
or
and
Houston Community College campus. Attendees can enjoy a variety of free entertainment, carnival games, live musical performances, and tasty treats from local vendors. Close out the evening with an amazing fireworks display. The concert will begin at 6 p.m., and the fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m.
Free parking and shuttle bus service available at Thurgood Marshall High School, 220 Buffalo Run. The event will also be livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page. Find full information at missouricitytx.gov.
Stafford
The Stafford Freedom Independence Day Celebration will be held at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road, from 7-9:30 p.m. The night will start at 7 p.m. with the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra performing its annual “Freedom Rings” holiday concert of patriotic music before the fireworks display outside at 9:15 p.m. There will be free admission and free parking for the event. Full information can be found at staffordtx.gov.
Meadows Place
The city of Meadows Place will hold its 4th of July Food Truck Family Festival on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. at Mark McGrath Park, 12001 Brighton Lane. The event will feature food trucks, live music from The Emotions BAND, and a fireworks show beginning at 9 p.m. Full information can be found at cityofmeadowsplace.org/4thof-july-food-trucks-2023.
Rosenberg
The City of Rosenberg will hold its 26th annual Family 4th Celebration on Friday, July 4, from 6-10 p.m. at Seabourne Creek Nature Park (3831 Highway 36 S). This event is free and open to the public. The event will include a performance by Steel Country featuring special guest Kevin Black. For more information, visit the city’s Facebook page.
All branches of Fort Bend County Libraries will be closed Friday through Sunday, July 4-6, in observance of Independence Day. Regular library hours will resume on Monday, July 7. Fort Bend County offices, like most governmental offices across the county, will be closed on Friday, and Fort Bend Transit will not be offering bus service.
As a reminder, individuals are not permitted to use fireworks within city limits of Fort Bend County municipalities.
Commissioners Court approves sale of fireworks for Diwali
Staff Reports
After hearing from several public speakers who favored the item, Fort Bend County Commissioners last week unanimously approved allowing the sale of fireworks to celebrate Diwali, the so-called “Festival of Lights” marked by adherents of numerous faiths from South Asia.
Under the approved order, retail fireworks permit holders may legally sell fireworks beginning October 12, 2025, through midnight on October 22, 2025, unless an earlier expiration is prompted by drought conditions as determined by the Texas A&M Forest Service.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Dexter McCoy proposed allowing the annual authorization to continue through December 2030. Fort Bend County follows neighboring Harris and Waller counties in the move. Diwali, which in general terms marks the triumph of good over evil, is celebrated by many members of Fort Bend County’s Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities.
The action stems from House Bill 608, passed by the Texas Legislature in 2023, which empowers counties to extend fireworks sales for Diwali.
Before, consumer fireworks sales were routinely permitted only for the July 4 and New Year’s celebration. Fort Bend County allowed firework sales for last year’s Diwali holiday, but only for that year. Since the date of the annual Diwali celebration changes based on a lunar calendar, the item passed allowed for the dates of fireworks sales to change accordingly.
The Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s office will collaborate with retailers to ensure public safety through educational outreach and compliance checks. Residents are advised to follow guidelines on safe transportation, discharge, and disposal of fireworks, and to stay informed about any burn ban declarations during the sale period.
“This order reinforces our commitment to inclusion and cultural recognition.”
Key details of the Diwali fireworks order:
“Fort Bend County is proud to support our diverse communities by allowing families to celebrate Diwali with this cherished cultural tradition,” McCoy said in a news release.
• Sale Period for 2025: October 12–22, 2025 (or until the Texas A&M Forest Service declares drought conditions).
• Location: Authorized only in unincorporated areas of Fort Bend County by permit-holding sellers. • Safety Restrictions: Limitations on specific fireworks classes may apply if a countywide burn ban is in effect; all sales and use must comply with Fort Bend County Fire Marshal guidance on safe handling and discharge.
American Red Cross offers tips to stay cool this summer
Community Reports
2024 was one of the hottest summers on record and experts predict that the summer of 2025 may be just as intense with hotter than normal temperatures. The American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat by taking three actions:
1. Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every hour, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
2. Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
3. Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Don’t forget to make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
“Heat can be deadly and it’s important to not overlook this invisible threat,” said Shawn Schulze, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region. “While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, it can be especially dangerous for older adults, the very young, pregnant women, outdoor workers and those with chronic conditions or disabilities. Here in the Texas Gulf Coast Region, you can help keep people safe by looking out for your loved ones and neighbors.”
PLAN AHEAD To be
ready for extreme heat, think about how you’ll stay cool. If you have air conditioning, make sure it’s working properly. If you don’t have air conditioning, think about where you’ll go to cool off, how you’ll get there and what you’ll take with you.
In an emergency it’s critical to act fast, so learn the signs of heat illness and what to do. Talk to your doctor about
how you can stay healthy. Make sure you have supplies to keep medication cool and equipment charged, especially during a power outage. When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Visit here to learn what steps to take if the power goes out.
If you’re an athlete or you work outdoors, think about
how you can alter your schedule to avoid the hottest times of the day. Consider how you’ll stay hydrated and find a cool place to take breaks. Don’t forget your furry friends and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
CHECK ON OTHERS
Once you’re ready for the heat, connect with loved ones and neighbors to see if they need help. Make a list of who you’ll check on and help them make a plan so they know what do. Have them sign up for free emergency alerts from their local government. Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for realtime weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
Fort Bend County Commissioners Court last week approved allowing the sale of
fireworks
celebrate Diwali, the “Festival of Lights.” Photo by Ramesh NG via Wikipedia
“People here in [the] USA and Canada, they love indigo blue,” he said. Indigo is a natural blue dye derived from the Indigofera plant. During the period of British rule in India, it held the distinction of being a major cash crop cultivated for export.
Many retailers aiming to build a business around India’s abundance of colorful textiles focus on selling saris, a traditional garment for women in India – a reliable choice, but Kollanthara wasn’t interested in selling saris. Instead, he sourced hand-printed fabrics and began selling bed sheets, which soon proved popular. When the pandemic hit, he decided to move to the United States to be closer to his family, as his children have careers in Washington, D.C. He eventually chose to start a business in the Houston area, settling in Sugar Land.
It wasn’t without challenges, he said, but appearances at craft shows helped him find the right niche: visitors admired the textiles, often complimenting Kollanthara
TRADITION FROM PAGE 1
ready,” said volunteer Arpita Maheshwari.
“We’ve been volunteering for fun, we danced and we sang a lot,” said Mishka Panigrahi, 8, a student at Katy ISD’s Tom Wilson Elementary School.
“We’ve had plenty of kids who have showed up today and have been helping,” said Diksha Rath, 22, a secondyear medical student at Baylor College of Medicine. “A majority of our community is from Katy, but we also have people from Pearland, Richmond and Sugar Land. There’s a big Indian community here, and our temple is not really representative of any one region in India, we have people who speak Odia, as well as Hindi, Marathi and languages from all over South India.”
The procession was accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums, brass bells, and tambourines that kept everyone moving together. Women welcomed guests with tilak plates, offering the traditional forehead mark of vermilion and sandalwood as a sign of respect and hospitality.
This year’s festival also showcased the continued
FBISD FROM PAGE 1
ISD taxpayers would see only a slight increase in their property taxes next year.
Administrators also told trustees that in the next year, the administration would begin making $23 million in budget cuts.
Several of the trustees voiced concerns that they voting on a budget plan (and a subsequent tax rate) they had only just received earlier that day. Among them were Position 1 trustee Angie Hanan, now in her second term, and Position 3 trustee Afshi Charania, who just began in her seat after being elected on June 7.
Board president Kristin Tassin told Charania in particular that the angst she was feeling was natural, and that she should expect to feel it
and referring friends. Folk Prints is more than a shop – it’s a platform to revive endangered art forms and support artisans in India, he said. “Many of these traditions are disappearing,” Kollanthara said. “Our mission is to keep them alive and share their
growth and development of USF’s Rosenberg campus. A newly built pavilion behind the temple offered shade and served as a welcoming space for classical dance and devotional music performances.
“We have added more structures, that’s a meeting room and the pavilion and paved pathways,” said organizer Girish Misra.
The grounds now feature expanded walkways and new landscaping with flowers and young trees.
Founded in 2018 by twenty local families, Universal Shraddha Foundation promotes community service and holistic living. Since moving to Rosenberg in 2020, the organization has transformed the 20-acre site into a vibrant gathering place with vegetable gardens, beehives, and even a pair of resident peacocks.
In addition to the chariot procession, guests enjoyed a bazaar featuring Indian food, handmade crafts, and informational booths. This year’s ratha yatra was one of several held across the Houston area, reflecting the festival’s growing significance among the region’s Hindu communities.
Varma is a freelance writer. She can be reached at juhi. varma@gmail.com.
every two years when the Legislature is in session.
Position 2 trustee Adam Schoof said he had a “gut feeling” that the administration would soon be asking the board to call a Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election, or VATRE, in order to help meet the next school’s year’s budget demands. Voters in November 2023 approved a VOTRE proposition after another failed the previous year.
But Superintendent Mark Smith said that as yet, his administration has had no discussions about proposing another VOTRE. In other business, Tassin announced that the board would appoint a new member to replace former Position 5 trustee Sonya Jones, who abruptly announced her resignation on social media immediately following the June 3 election, in
beauty with the Western world.” In addition to fabric by the yard, Folk Prints offers handcrafted home decor items including bedding, sofa and cushion covers, tablecloths, window valances, and wall hangings. Apparel such as wrap skirts and accessory
bags round out the collection.
“Many artisans in India are leaving the craft behind,” Kollanthara said. “Their children aren’t learning these printing techniques – it’s too much work for too little pay. If this continues, the tradition will disappear with them,
because there is no new generation to carry it on.”
The store also provides space for local quilters and crafters to display their own handmade creations, helping to build a creative community in Sugar Land. Kollanthara hopes this collaboration will
inspire customers to learn about textile traditions and appreciate their cultural significance.
Learn more about Folk Prints here folkprints.com. Varma is a freelance writer. She can be reached at juhi. varma@gmail.com.
which she was not a candidate. Jones later attempted to “rescind” her resignation, but the board formally accepted it at its June 9 agenda review meeting.
The district is seeking community members who seek to fill out the remainder of Jones’s term, which expires in May 2026. The person selected will not be required to run for reelection.
The deadline for submission of applications is 5 p.m C.S.T. on July 7, 2025. Trustees will review the applications between July 8 and July 21, with the announcement of the appointee on July 28. The appointee will begin serving on August 4. Those interested in applying can find more information at fortbendisd.com/ boardvacancy.
Editor’s note: This story was compiled from staff reports and Fort Bend ISD news releases. The Fort Bend ISD
school year. File photo
LEADER PUZZLER SOLUTIONS
PUZZLE
The Odia-style idols of Jagannath and his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra are simple wooden figures with prominent, round eyes. Contributed photo
Some of the items on display at Folk Prints, a store dedicated to traditional Indian fabric arts which recently opened in Sugar Land.
Photo by Juhi Varma
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to editor@fortbendstar.com
RICHMOND/ROSENBERG ALZHEIMER’S
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP MEETING
Please join us on Thursday, July 10, at 7:00 p.m. for our monthly meeting. We will be meeting in Room 105, the Gathering Room, at St. John’s UMC in Richmond. St. John’s is located at 400 Jackson Street.
Join Dr. Maggie Abbott, Physical Therapist and Director of Outreach with Houston Area Parkinson Society, to learn about Parkinson’s, including signs and symptoms, and how that differs from Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, or other dementias related to Atypical Parkinsonism. Learn about the local resources that can help reduce isolation associated with these diagnoses. Practice balance exercises and take away practical tips to reduce fall risk.
ONGOING
EARTH KIND KIDS CAMP REGISTRATION OPEN
Youths in grades 3-5 can have fun this summer learning about gardening by attending Earth Kind Kids Camp, sponsored by Fort Bend County Master Gardeners.
The July 21-24 day camp will cover the topics of gardening, horticulture and environmental science through different high-energy projects that help the youths learn about seeds, plants, rain and other topics between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day.
Registration is open for the camp, which will be in Building D at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, 4310 Texas 36 in Rosenberg. The camp is limited to the first 25 paid participants. Register at https://agrilife.org/ftbend4h/event/2025earthkindkidscamp/ The fee is $85. Registration includes all materials, snacks and a T-shirt. For more information, contact Brandy Rader at Brandy.Rader@ag.tamu.edu
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES AT GPBC
In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, Grand Parkway Baptist Church will offer ESL classes on Tuesday nights from mid-August 2025 through May 2026. We are located at 12000 FM 1464, Richmond, across from Austin High School. 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
EMMY-NOMINATED FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR HOLDING AUDITIONS
The Fort Bend Boys Choir is seeking talented young boys who like music and singing. If know of one, encourage him to audition for our 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. 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 auditions. Benefits as a choir member include greater self-esteem and self-confidence, better work ethic and a sense of belonging and community. A boy’s voice has an expiration date so it is important to audition when boys’ voices are still unchanged. Auditions are free!
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.
FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS
We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com.
THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES
We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org
ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264
Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281785-7372 for more information.
SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB
Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 832-987-4193, sugarlandrotaryclub5890@gmail.com We just started a new evening club also. Contact me for more info.
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.
LITERACY CO UNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY
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
EXCHANGE, America’s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new members! Various Fort Bend clubs exist and can accommodate early morning (7 a.m.), noon and evening meeting time desires. For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-575-1145 or mike@reichekfinancial. com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!
MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801
Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 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.
