September 2023 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

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.

281.274.7500

houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl

The Woodlands

SEPTEMBER 2023

FORT BEND FOCUS CARES ABOUT COMMUNITY

Fall is finally here and that means so much to do in the Bend! From football to festivals to galas galore, our community has so much to offer, especially in support of our non-profit organizations. We talked with several of our valued community partners to see what they are doing over the next few months and compiled an Events Calendar, so we can save those dates and support our amazing nonprofits.

22 COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

29 HIT US WITH YOUR BEST SHOT! Cullinan Park Photo Contest

34 5 SAVVY TIPS For a Smooth Back-to-School Transition {Medical

28 HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL Ranks No. 5 in Houston by U.S. News & World Report

7 FORT BEND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY EXPO Scheduled for September 14th

Football, Festivals and Fall Fun!

It’s finally here – the official start of The University of Texas football season! I am more than ready to cheer on my Longhorns and participate in some fun Fall activities!

Fall activities is what this issue is all about. Our community organizations are planning some fantastic events and activities in the coming months, and to help you “save the date,” we have put together a Community Event Calendar on page 22. There’s something for everyone – golf tournaments, festivals, galas – even a ginormous pumpkin patch perfect for those fall photos!

Fall also means school is back, and to help you and your students get back in the swing of things, we share 5 Savvy Tips for Back to School. Speaking of school, this month Pete gives us all some homework in Fort Bend Strong. Be sure to take a look at his assignment on page 30.

Here’s another fun assignment for you: Be sure to go to www.FortBendFocus. com and vote for your Focus Favs this month! Whether it’s your favorite burger joint, auto repair shop or even your favorite libation, give our local businesses some love and vote for them thru September 22nd. The winners of your Focus Favs will appear in our December issue.

Enjoy all that Fall has to offer, and I hope to see you out and about in Fort Bend!

Stay focused,

Vol. 20 No. 8

September 2023

281.728.1204

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

absolutely! focus media P. O. Box 1253

Richmond, Texas 77406

PUBLISHER

Patti Parish-Kaminski

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Kay Garrett

Gena Horak

WEB DESIGNER

JOBpage Graphics

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Meagan Tape

CONTRIBUTORS

Patti Parish-Kaminski

Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D.

Steve Kursar

Alisa Murray

The Honorable Pete Olson

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES/ EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

patti@fortbendfocus.com

Laura Richard with Tim and Patti Kaminski at the Red & Blue United Sponsor Party.

Photo by Jessica Kij.

Fourth Annual Fort Bend Future Technology EXPO

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with University of Houston’s (UH) College of Technology, will present the Fourth Annual Fort Bend Future Technology EXPO on Thursday, September 14th from 4 to 7 PM at the University of Houston College of Technology Building in Sugar Land, located at 13850 University Blvd. Come see why Fort Bend County is a technology hub!

From 4 to 5 PM, guests will hear a special keynote presentation from Joseph Powell, Founding Director from the University of Houston’s Energy Transition Institute. Powell, former chief scientist for Shell and member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), has been named as the founding director of the new UH Energy Transition Institute. A nationally renowned chemical engineering expert with 36 years of industry experience, Powell has led research and development programs in new chemical processes, biofuels and enhanced oil recovery. He is UH’s 18th member of the NAE. In addition to leading the institute, Powell serves as a faculty member in the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at the UH Cullen College of Engineering.

Throughout the event, guests can enjoy vendor booth visits and make valuable connections. Businesses will showcase cutting-edge innovative software, consumer and business-related technology and intelligent learning systems.

Sponsored by HCC, HCSS, Page and HR in Alignment, LLC, the event will spotlight companies who are on the forefront of technology and industry development in our region, stakeholders in the global innovation ecosystem and business leaders in the community. The mission of this unique occasion is to promote Fort Bend County as a tech hub for business and education. Fort Bend Chamber is proud to highlight the diversity amongst our technology community and provide an opportunity to spur connections, innovations and ideas! The event is open to the public and complimentary to attend.

Please contact Juliette Nessmith at 281.566.2161, juliette@fortbendcc.org or visit www.fortbendchamber.com for more information.

Joseph Powell

It’s finally Fall, and that means back to school, Friday night lights and two-digit instead of three-digit temperatures. In Fort Bend, this season also marks the beginning of Fall fun with many community events. So, what’s happening this Fall in the Bend with our amazing community organizations?

We reached out to several area philanthropies and asked just that: What are your plans for the next few months? What we discovered is there are so many fun

and festive ways to support our community organizations over the next several months. So many, in fact, that we put a Community Event Calendar together as a resource for our friends and neighbors to “save those dates” for everything from galas, to toy drives, to festivals!

We hope to see you this Fall as you are out and about in Fort Bend doing what we all do best – supporting our community partners –all while having a great time!

Join Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for Annual Flu Shot Toy Drive

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in collaboration with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land and Toys for Tots Fort Bend, is offering free flu shots on Saturday, October 21st to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange. Fort Bend and surrounding area residents can bring a new, unwrapped toy in exchange for a free flu shot.

Houston

To participate in this community event, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, located at 16655 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, Texas 77479, between 8 am and noon on Saturday, October 21st. Registration is required. One flu shot per unwrapped toy. No stuffed animals or clothing items allowed.

To register, please visit join. houstonmethodist.org/flushot-sl or call 281.274.7976.

The flu kills as many as 20,000 people a year. The vaccine is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B. Vaccination with the flu vaccine may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will distribute a limited supply of the influenza vaccine to persons age 18 and over with no history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome and who are not pregnant. High dose flu vaccines will not be provided during this event. Please consult with your primary care doctor if high dose flu vaccine is the right option for you.

87th Annual Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo

The87th annual Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo will be held September 29th to October 8th, 2023. This “fun for the whole family” event offers something for everyone – from a Diaper Derby for toddlers, Mutton Bustin’ and a Bucket Calf show for youngsters, livestock shows and even a Senior Citizen’s Day event. There are concerts, a carnival and lots of rodeo action.

Entertainment headlining on the Brazos Stage at this year’s Fort Bend County Fair is: Friday September 29th, Josh Ward; Saturday September 30th, Josh Abbott Band; Sunday October 1st, La Energia Nortena; Wednesday October 4th, Braxton Keith; Friday October 6th, Southall; Saturday October 7th, Tracy Byrd and Sunday October 8th, Asleep at the Wheel.

The music continues on the Music Row After Party stage with David Lewis, Southern County Line, Red Ravens, Grupo Vidal, Horizon and Steel Country.

New this year, the BBQ cook-off has moved to the weekend prior to the fair, September 22nd and 23rd. This weekend will include the World Championship Cook-Off, a Cornhole tournament, Horticulture competition and 4-H Precision/ Sporter Small-bore Rifle Contest.

Interested in sponsoring? Volunteering? Participating? Supporting the youth of Fort Bend County? Visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com for more information.

It’s Cowboys, Cattle and Cannons at George Ranch Frontier Days

For a great day of Fall family fun on Saturday, October 21st, visit Fort Bend’s famous spread for George Ranch Frontier Days. Presenting Sponsor Polly Shouse, The George Ranch and the Fort Bend History Association have partnered to host their largest living history event of the year. It’s a day filled with cowboys, cannons, history and fun with cattle working demonstrations, historic home tours, battle re-enactments, games, vendors, food trucks, live music and entertainment, hands-on activities and more!

Costumed guides will be on hand to tell tales of 150 years of Texas history, and Sky Kings Falconry will present “Native Birds of Texas” featuring hawks and owls. Other attractions include a Cowboy Fast Draw Contest, music from Grandmas’ Boyfriends Barbershop Quartet and Museum of the Pacific War weapons demonstration.

On Friday, October 20th, schools are invited for Field Trip Friday from 9 am to 2 pm. Schools sign up by contacting Maggie Trinker at 281.343.0218 ext. 220 or mtrinker@georgeranch.org. Advance registration is required, and space is limited.

George Ranch Frontier Days will be open to the public on Saturday, October 21st at the Ranch, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond, from 9 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for children and children four and under are free. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.georgeranch.org/programsevents/george-ranch-frontier-days/.

See ad on page 22.

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship: The Path to Success

By partnering with horses, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship (RSTH) helps people realize their individual potential through customized equine-assisted services (EAS).

Reining Strength is a nonprofit organization located in Fort Bend County and a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). They provide EAS for people ages two through adults, who have physical, cognitive, social or emotional needs. Some examples of the diagnoses that benefit from EAS are individuals with autism, cerebral palsy and PTSD to name a few.

Reining Strength offers both therapeutic horsemanship and equine-assisted learning. Sessions are taught and facilitated by a Certified PATH Riding Instructor or PATH Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and are available Monday thru Friday. RSTH’s equine-assisted learning program is unique, and they work with organizations like Parks Youth Ranch, Gigi’s Playhouse of Sugar Land and Houston Methodist Hospital. Contact RSTH today to set up customized programming for team building or personal growth for your business.

Reining Strength’s volunteers are the backbone of the organization! You’ll never find a more rewarding volunteer opportunity. There are so many ways to help – volunteer during lessons, help in the office or join the Derby Day Fundraiser committee. The best way to learn about what RSTH does is to see them in action. Schedule a tour at the Reining Strength facility, located at 7126 FM 359 Road in Richmond, Texas, 77406, visit the RSTH website (for more information on touring, giving or volunteering) at www.Reiningstrength.org or call 832.451.6874.

To learn more visit hopeforthree.org

Providing Help. Creating Hope. Since 2011.

Hope For Three Autism Advocates is a 501c3 nonprofit providing resources and support, to families with an autistic loved one(s). Financial assistance is available to qualified Fort Bend County residents. Resources and referrals are available to anyone, regardless of location. The organization also creates awareness through outreach, education, and events.

Hope For Three’s Mission:

“Walk alongside and support families on their autism journey.“

The organization aims to bridge the gap between families and providers and provide access to a higher-quality care to improve life outcomes; they strive to serve the entire family unit.

Circle of Hope

Hope For Three’s gift giving program allows businesses or individuals to give a recurring gift.

Programs include

• Autism All-Star

• Autism Superhero

• It's Cool to Care

• Teen Huddle

• Gal Gatherings

• Guy Gatherings

• Caregiver Empowerment

• H.O.P.E. (Helping Our Parents Excel)

• Caregivers Time Out and Sibling Sessions

• Crisis Intervention Training (CIT)

Annual Events include

• Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition

• Car Wash for Kids

• Family Fun Fest

• Golf Fore Autism

Back to School Project

The Back to School supply drive provides the opportunity for our children to return to school with tools to succeed. Children in protective services receive school clothes, shoes, socks, underwear, backpacks, and school supplies.

The Rainbow Room is a resource room stocked with snacks, diapers, school supplies, clothes, toiletries, car seats, beds and other items frequently needed to meet the emergency needs of families in crisis that are involved in the Texas Department of Family & Protec tive Services in Fort Bend County.

Christmas Project

Children in protective services can submit a wish list to Santa for Christmas gifts. With the help of our generous community, last year over 579 children received gifts. Adults in Adult Protective Services can also submit a wish list and are given care packages containing hygiene items, cleaning supplies, and blankets.

To find out more please follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/fortbendrainbowroom or visit our website at www.fbrr.org

Exchange Club of Sugar Land Presents Inaugural Field of Honor® Flag Event

Creating an awe-inspiring panorama, United States flags will fly in a solemn formation at Brazos River Park near the University of Houston Campus-Sugar Land, located at 13850 University Blvd., November 10th thru 12th. This stirring display of hundreds of flags will be displayed in perfect rows for viewing 24 hours a day during the three-day event.

The Sugar Land Field of Honor is designed to bring the community together in a patriotic tribute honoring heroes. Each flag represents an individual and tells a story. Community members may sponsor a flag to honor individuals currently serving in our military, veterans, fallen servicemen and women, first responders, educators, coaches, clergy, family members, co-workers or other heroes in their lives.

GiGi’s Playhouse

GiGi’s

Playhouse Sugar Land, a non-profit Down Syndrome Achievement Center, is pleased to present the 2023 “I Have a Voice” gala on Saturday, October 14th at The George Ranch Historical Park Arena.

The event begins at 6 pm with a cocktail hour featuring music, entertainment, a silent auction, beer burros, trick roping and games. The main program will be led by Ray Aguilar, who will serve as the Master of Ceremony, highlighting the accomplishments and impact of GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land, followed by a live auction. The evening will conclude with live music and dancing. The dress code is “Boots and Bling,” so be sure to wear your dancing boots!

The 2023 “I Have a Voice” Gala is an evening with a purpose, as all funds raised are used to “change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all.” GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land changes lives through the consistent delivery of free educational, therapeutic-based and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community.

GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land relies on donors and volunteers to help provide life-changing services to families from as early as a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, all the way to adulthood and career development. For more information and to purchase tickets and sponsorship packages visit, gigisplayhouse.org/ sugarland/gala.

“Honoring Heroes in Fort Bend County” is the theme for the Field of Honor display hosted by Exchange Club of Sugar Land. The Stars and Stripes reminds us of who we are as a people and represents our solidarity in creating a brighter tomorrow, uniting us all.

This moving display is a gift to the community made possible through donations, sponsorships and the efforts of many dedicated volunteers. This is an experience hard to describe, but never to be forgotten. The Exchange Club of Sugar Land invites the community to visit the Field of Honor patriotic display. The display is open to the public for free. Show your support and gratitude by sponsoring a flag or making a donation. Funds raised will support Exchange Club charities.

For information, visit https://www. healingfield.org/sugarlandtx.

See ad on page 17.

“I Have A Voice Gala”

ART you going to join us?

Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room

Fort Bend Community Partners

Rainbow Room is a charitable organization dedicated to helping Fort Bend County children and adults involved with Texas Department of Family & Protective Services (TDFPS) – Children’s Protective Services and Adult Protective Services.

Two days of Festival Fun

APRIL 2 7 th & 2 8th

Sugar Land Arts Festival 2K24: Getting Bigger and Better Every Year!

TheSugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation (SLCAF) proudly announces the third annual Sugar Land Arts Fest. The Sugar Land Arts Fest has been a huge success for the last two years, and the SLCAF looks forward to even more Arts, Taste and Music on April 27th and 28th, 2024.

More than three thousand people had a fabulous weekend visiting over a hundred artist booths, drinking hand-selected wines, eating delicious food and enjoying live music. Mark your calendar because the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation and The City of Sugar Land will come together once again to bring the Sugar Land Arts Fest on April 27th and 28 th , 2024, to the award-winning Smart Financial Centre Plaza.

“The Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation is proud of the success of this event and is looking forward to sharing more fun, food and arts with even more of our community in April of 2024. We hope to see you there!” said Tim Stubenrouch, SLCAF President.

The Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit arts organization that exists to promote, connect and empower arts and culture throughout our diverse community. Let’s get together and celebrate the arts in Sugar Land.

“Art” you going to join us? Be the first to know about entertainment, schedules and more by following the SLAF on social media: @SugarLandArtsFest and visiting www.sugarlandartsfest.com.

Fort Bend Rainbow Room is located in the TDFPS building in Rosenberg and is stocked with emergency supplies readily available for Fort Bend County clients. Supplies include clothes, shoes, socks, underwear, diapers, formula, blankets, toiletries, cleaning supplies, school supplies, car seats and beds.

In addition to the emergency supplies, the organization also hosts two annual projects. The Back-to-School Project provides school clothes, shoes, socks, underwear, backpacks and school supplies to Fort Bend County children involved with Children’s Protective Services. This project provides the necessary supplies for the children to attend school in a manner like their peers. Proper school supplies and clothes are important to the development and selfesteem of these children as attendance and learning may be impacted by the lack of proper supplies.

The annual Christmas Project provides gifts to Fort Bend County children and adults involved with TDFPS. Children and adults are allowed to submit a wish list for Santa. Through the generosity of the community, gifts from their wish lists are purchased while others host toy drives to help fill the wish lists. The adult clients also receive care packages including hygiene items, cleaning supplies and blankets along with their gifts.

For more information, call Tonya Lewis at 832-595-3029 or email at tonya.rr15@yahoo.com.

See ad on page 11.

The Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation and The City of Sugar Land will come together once again to bring you

Nextspring the Rotary Club of Katy will host the 2024 Wild West Brewfest (WWBF), a weekend full of great beer, live music, food and more. The KTown Throwdown will kick-off the multi-day event on Thursday, March 21st, followed by the Launch Party on Friday, March 22nd. The official WWBF will be Saturday, March 23rd. The entire weekend of events will be hosted at Typhoon Texas in Katy, Texas.

The WWBF showcases some of the best liquids, including over 800 different beers, plus a fantastic wine garden. Voted the #1 Brewfest in North America by BeerYeti.com for multiple years in a row, the WWBF is an experience you won’t want to miss. And the event is more than just a great time; it’s about helping others in need through its proceeds. Founded in 2011 by Katy Rotarians, the event was volunteer created, continues to be all-volunteer run and 100% of all proceeds are given back to the local community in student scholarships and donations to charitable organizations. Since its inception, the WWBF has raised and donated over $1 million, and it has its sights set on $2 million!

Tickets to the 2024 WWBF are already on sale. Early bird prices are available for a short time, so get your tickets today! Plus, all hotels are within walking distance, so make it a weekend and stay in Katy. Visit www.wildwestbrewfest.com for details. To stay up-to-date, like/follow on social media as we countdown to the 2024 Wild West Brewfest!

Golf Fore Autism Swings into Action October 2nd

Golf

Fore Autism, presented by Landmark Charities for the eighth consecutive year, will take place at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land on October 2nd. Proceeds benefit the local autism nonprofit, Hope For Three, which provides resources and support to families with autistic loved ones.

Golfing and networking are only part of the fun while taking on both courses, doubling the impact in raising funds and awareness. Creative contests at various holes, lunch, food on the courses (thanks to Lopez Mexican Restaurant and Top Gun Smokehouse BBQ), live and silent auctions, incredible raffles, wine pull and more, engage supporters during the dinner and awards ceremony immediately following the tournament.

“Participating in this golf tournament can change a child’s future along with the well-being of their family,” said Jessica Jubin, Hope For Three Philanthropy Director. “Funds raised aid in accessing life-changing treatments and therapies families may not otherwise acquire due to high-cost or inaccessibility.”

Event sponsors include OCuSOFT, Regions Bank, Trusted Senior Specialists, GFL Environmental, Cooltime Services, Albemarle Foundation, Liberty Engine-South Texas, Primeway FCU, Global Wealth Advisors and more. Supporters offer individual play for $150, a foursome for $600 and numerous sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available. Hope For Three is accepting all donations or bottles of wine valued at $50, or above, for the impressive wine pull. Registration begins at 9 am with breakfast sponsored by First Watch, The Daytime Cafe.

The tournament starts at 11 am. To register a team, sign up as a sponsor, volunteer or donate, visit, https://www. hopeforthree.org/events/golf-fore-autism-23/

See ad on page 11.

New Church in Sugar Land: Trinity Church Sugar Land

Join us for the launch of Trinity Church Sugar Land – A Celebration of Faith, Fellowship and New Beginnings!

Trinity Church Sugar Land is thrilled to invite you to the highly anticipated launch of a traditional Methodist community. Come join this Methodist renewal of fellow Christians pursuing an authentic, biblically led faith journey on September 10th at 10 am at the Colony Meadows Elementary School, located at 4510 Sweetwater Blvd. in Sugar Land, Texas, 77479.

The launch event includes an inspiring worship service led by our esteemed Reverend Dr. Ralph du Plessis, a fellowship time after worship to meet new friends, mingle with fellow attendees and members of our church, and a special meal for all. Embrace the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your values and beliefs. This service promises to instill the spirit of unity, hope, and inspiration as we embark on a new chapter in our spiritual journey together.

Trinity Church Sugar Land is a church we call family. We have dedicated activities for children and youth to ensure they and their place in our community from day one, engaging Sunday School programs, fun-filled games and age-appropriate teachings to guarantee an enriching experience for all young souls.

We are happy to tell you more about Trinity Church and answer any questions you may have. Email us at info@trinitychurchsugarland.org. Come be a part of our story and family!

East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc: Serving the Community for Over 30 Years

East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. (EFBHNM) has been a mainstay in the community since 1990, providing food, financial support and a friendly smile to our Fort Bend neighbors facing food insecurity.

Food Pantry services are provided to families on a first-come, first-served basis, and no one is turned away hungry. Each nutritionally complete food order is tailored to the size and special needs of each household. The Food Orders include supplemental groceries for three to four days and are available weekly.

EFBHNM also participates in the Backpack Buddy Program. Each Friday they provide children with nutritionally balanced, non-perishable packets of food to take home. Kid Sacks are included in food orders to families with children with bags of easy-to-prepare food designed for children ages two to 18 years of age. In addition, Holiday Baskets are provided for Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks to help supplement their celebration meal. For families with children celebrating a birthday, EFBHNM provides a Birthday Bag with a small gift, a sweet treat and balloons and candles to help celebrate.

EFBHNM also has a Financial Assistance Program where clients may receive help with short term housing and utility expenses. Once assistance is approved, the funds are paid directly to the creditor.

Another EFBHNM initiative is the Tri-City Churches Resale Shop, which has been a vital part of our community since 1975. The Resale Shop is a great source of inexpensive clothing, household items and furniture. All the proceeds from the Resale Shop are reinvested back into the services provided by EFBHNM.

For more information about the EFBHNM, visit www.humanneeds.org

See ad on page 16.

Red & Blue United –A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute Debuts October 15th

TheFinest and Bravest Foundation of Sugar Land (FBFSL) announces its first annual “Red & Blue United – A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute,” Sunday, October 15th at The Smart Financial Centre. Back the Blue and The Firefighters Gala have joined efforts and are now one event raising funds and awareness for all of Sugar Land’s First Responders: Police, Fire and EMS.

Event Co-Chairs Debbie and Marvin Marcell and KK and Scott West are thrilled to invite the community to this exciting inaugural event, which includes a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience Sponsor Dinner complete with Police, SWAT, Fire and EMS equipment followed by an amazing concert. Texas’ own Aaron Watson will serve as the headliner for the event. “We want the community to join us for a boot scootin’ good time, and most importantly, join us in supporting those who always come when we call and help keep us safe every day,” said Co-Chair Debbie Marcell.

The Finest & Bravest Foundation of Sugar Land was formed to create one, joint non-profit organization to partner with the community, creating awareness and support for the vital efforts of our First Responders. Co-Chair Scott West said, “It’s one event, and it will be fabulous. While you only need to attend once, you can give twice as much!”

Proceeds will support both departments in three ways: purchasing lifesaving equipment, funding educational opportunities and meeting urgent needs of First Responders and their families with a Compassion Fund.

To Sponsor the event or purchase tickets to the concert, visit www.RedAndBlueUnited.com. For questions, email info@finestandbravestsugarland. org

The Arc of Fort Bend’s “Best in the West” Moves to November 11th

The45th annual “Best in the West,” presented by Prosperity Bank, has a brand-new date for 2023: Saturday, November 11th at the George Ranch Arena, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond.

Still filled with all your favorites – BBQ dinner, live band, dance, silent auction corrals and a grand live auction – “Best in the West” is an evening of boot scootin’ fun all for a great cause. The event benefits the Arc of Fort Bend County supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and this year’s co-chairs are Jenny Gortney, James Patterson and Ann Smith.

“’Best in the West” is the best little fundraiser in Texas,” said Co-Chair Jenny Gortney. “We are excited about hosting our annual event a week early this year at our old stomping grounds – The Geroge Ranch – and invite the entire community to join us.”

“Best in the West” will feature their signature silent auction corrals filled to the brim with great gifts just in time for the holidays. The live auction boasts several amazing items including trips, parties and hunting excursions.

New to the event this year is a raffle for a restored 1967 Mustang convertible. Tickets for the raffle are $50 and only 2,000 tickets will be sold.

Event tickets are $75 per person and tables of 10 are $750. To purchase tickets to the event or raffle, or for sponsorships, visit www.BestInTheWest. givesmart.com

The Ultimate “Tailgate” Party Happens January 27th

TheHomeless Pet Placement League’s (HPPL) second annual fundraising event, the Ultimate “Tailgate” Party, will be held on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at Sugar Creek Country Club in Sugar Land. Don your favorite jersey and join the party from 6 to 10 pm that features an open bar, big board, silent auction, wine pull, door prizes and the dog toy “wine” pull!

HPPL Vice President Eileen Akerson, co-chairs Vivian Douglas and Vicki Stevenson and the pawsitively fantastic “Tailgate” committee are preparing for a fun-filled event to support homeless animals at a time when shelters are filled with pets needing forever homes. “The Ultimate ‘Tailgate’ Party is a fun, casual, football-themed event to celebrate the tireless efforts of our compassionate fosters, volunteers and community partners,” said Akerson. “Their important work would not be possible without the generosity of our kind donors and supporters, and we are thrilled to bring the ‘Tailgate’ Party back for a second year in support of our mission.”

Funds raised will be used to support and expand the mission of the HPPL and its programs and services in the community. HPPL asks the community to lend a paw by supporting this event. “Now, more than ever, we need the community’s assistance as we strive to rescue, rehabilitate, foster and place homeless animals in forever homes. There is no greater love than the love of a rescued animal,” shared Akerson.

Tickets are $75 and sponsorships range from $1000 to $7500. To find out more about the Ultimate “Tailgate” Party, email gala@hppl.org or call 281.658.6592. The HPPL is a registered non-profit animal welfare organization. For more information, visit www.hppl.org

Saturdays from October

The Great Pumpkin Round Up: Open Saturdays

October 14th through November 25th at The George Ranch

Justin time for the fall season and fabulous photo ops, The George Ranch’s popular fall-themed event, The Great Pumpkin Round Up, presented by Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, returns this October, bigger and better than ever!

For the third year, The Geroge Ranch will showcase a fantastic fall feature created by local designer Lucas Chavez. Chavez has spent months working with pumpkin producers in West Texas to design an autumn display exclusively for the Ranch that includes a hay wagon, training carriage, giant sugar cane vat and, of course, pumpkins galore! The design will feature more than twenty types of gourds, pumpkins and squash along with mums and fall plants.

OakBend’s Patchwork of Life Event 2023

OakBend is excited to announce the 11th annual Patchwork of Life fundraiser, scheduled for October 12th from 6 – 9pm at Safari Texas Ranch. This event symbolizes the unity and support of community members and staff as they come together to create a beautiful quilt. Since its inception in 2013, Patchwork has thrived, thanks to the incredible generosity showcased through donations, sponsorships, purchases of Quilt Squares and live auction bidding.

Patchwork of Life presents four unique sponsorship opportunities, enabling donors to contribute at various levels. These include the Golden Threads Sponsor at $10,000, the Community Fabric Sponsor at $5,500, the Patterns of Hope Sponsor at $3,500 and the Stitches of Love Sponsor at $2,500.

All funds raised during Patchwork of Life will be allocated across multiple departments based on their specific needs. As an independent, non-profit facility, OakBend relies heavily on the support of external sources to facilitate vital purchases and improvements.

For more information regarding sponsorship opportunities or event registration, please contact the OakBend Development Office at 281.341.2014 or via email at development@obmc.org. Additional details can be found at oakbendmedcenter.org/ patchwork-of-life.

We cordially invite the community to join us in making this year’s Patchwork of Life the most successful one to date! Your support will enable OakBend to continue delivering exceptional care to our community.

The perfect place for families and visitors of all ages to spend a fallthemed Saturday of fun taking photos, picnicking and touring the historic sites at The George Ranch, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is presenting The Great Pumpkin Round Up.

“The Great Pumpkin Round Up is such a treat for our visitors,” said George Ranch Site Director Adrienne Barker. “We can’t wait to see the new design Lucas Chavez creates for us this year!”

The Great Pumpkin Round Up is included with the purchase of a regular admission ticket to The George Ranch where visitors can explore what life was like in Texas decades ago. The Great Pumpkin Round Up debuts Saturday, October 14th and runs through November 25th, 2023.

To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit www.georgeranch.org/general-admission/

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Enriches Fort Bend Families with Hands-On, Minds-On Learning Opportunities Onsite and Beyond

Named

“2019 Best Local Museum”

by Fort Bend Star and listed as one of Sugar Land’s top attractions by TripAdvisor, Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center – A Very Special Project of Children’s Museum Houston, is a Playground for Your Mind™. It is dedicated to transforming communities through innovative, child-centered learning.

Converting the historic Imperial Sugar mill into a museum for the community, the Discovery Center serves families with children ages 12 and younger by presenting a wide array of learning opportunities through exhibits and special events all year round. Last year, the Discovery Center welcomed nearly 63,000 visitors of whom more than 16,000 received free admission through the “Open Doors” program, which ensures access to low-income families. The Discovery Center served an additional 6,400 people through its extensive parenting engagement programs delivered in schools, community centers and events all around Fort Bend.

The Discovery Center houses five exhibits which use Building Blocks for Learning rubric, ensuring alignment with national learning standards and 21st century skills. Kidtropolis, USA focuses on civic engagement, economics, math and literacy; How Does it Work? explores physics and simple machines; Amazingly Immature, based on the best-selling KLUTZ® book series, fosters STEM learning through quirky challenges; Cum Yah Gullah, created in partnership with Penn Center, explores African American culture of the Sea Islands of Georgia and South Carolina; and Tot*Spot provides developmentally appropriate experiences for infants and toddlers.

Get involved by visiting www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org. Support the Discovery Center by donating, volunteering or becoming a member.

Presenting Sponsor Polly Shouse

Community Community Events Events

SEPTEMBER 2023

Trinity Church Sugar Land

Benefitting Sugar Land Community

Sunday, September 10th • 9 am to Noon

Colony Meadows Elementary School

4510 Sweetwater Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479

Friday, October 20th & Saturday, October 21st, 2023

Be our guest at the grand opening of the new Trinity Church! Trinity Church is a tradional Methodist church sharing what we believe since early 2023 with Senior Pastor Ralph du Plessis leading our worship.

www.TrinityChurchSugarLand.org

*Schools: Field Trip Friday, October 20th

Open to the Public: Saturday, October 21st

Tickets: www.GeorgeRanch.org

$20 for Adults $15 Children

Children Under 4 Free

Generously Sponsored By: Kay Danziger

Fort Bend History Association Board of Trustees

*To sign up for Field Trip Friday, contact Maggie Trinker at 281-343-0218 ext. 220 or mtrinker@georgeranch.org

Advance registration is required and space is limited.

Fort Bend County Fair BBQ Cook-Off

Benefitting Fort Bend County Youth

September 22nd & 23rd

Fort Bend Fairgrounds

4310 Highway 36 South, Rosenberg, TX 77471

The week before the Fair begins, this weekend will include a World Championship BBQ Cook-Off, a Cornhole Tournament, Horticulture competition and a 4-H Precision/Sporter Small-Bore Rifle Contest.

www.FortBendCountyFair.com

Fort Bend County Fair

Benefitting Fort Bend County Youth

September 29th thru October 8th

Fort Bend Fairgrounds

4310 Highway 36 South, Rosenberg, TX 77471

The 87th Annual Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo kicks off September 29rd benefitting youth, promoting agriculture and supporting education, running for 10 days with activities for all ages including concerts, a carnival food and more.

www.FortBendCountyFair.com

OCTOBER 2023

Golf Fore Autism

Benefitting Hope For Three

Monday, October 2nd

Sweetwater Country Club

4400 Palm Royale Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479

Presented by Lanemark Charities, the 8th annual Golf Fore Autism helps prvodie resources and support to families with autistic loved ones. The tournament features creative contests at various holes, lunch, food, live and silent auctions, raffles, wine pull, dinner and awards ceremony.

www.hopeforthree.org/events/golf-fore-autism-23/

6th Annual OutRun Hunger

5K Family Walk and Run

Benefitting East Fort Bend Human Needs

Saturday, October 7th • 8:30 am

Harvest Green

3400 Harvest Corner Drive, Richmond, TX 77406

Sign up for a timed 5k, a family walk/run, a kids run and a huge post race party. All proceeds benefit East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. It will be fun-filled day for the whole family!

www.humanneeds.org

Patchwork of Life

Benefitting OakBend Medical Center

Thursday, October 12th • 6 pm

Safari Texas Ranch

11627 FM 1464, Richmond, TX 77407

This event symbolizes the unity and support of community members as they come together to create a beautiful quilt. All funds raised will be allocated across multiple departments based on specific needs. For more information, contact the Development Office at 281.341.2014.

www.oakbendmedcenter.org/patchwork-of-life

I Have A Voice

Benefitting GiGi’s Playhouse

Saturday, October 14th • 6 to 11 pm

George Ranch Historical Park Arena

10215 FM 762, Richmond, TX 77469

Honoring Mark and Lee Ann Dickerson, the Boots & Bling gala will feature live music, a live and silent auction, dancing, magic and more. All proceeds will benefit purposeful programs for Down Syndrome achievements. For tickets or sponsorships, email sugarland@gigisplayhouse.org.

www.Gigisplayhouse.org/sugarland/gala

The Great Pumpkin Round Up

Benefitting The George Ranch

Saturday, October 14th thru Saturday, November 25th

The George Ranch

10215 FM 762 Rd, Richmond, TX 77469

The perfect place for families and visitors of all ages to spend a fall-themed Saturday of fun taking photos, picnicking and touring the historic sites at The George Ranch. Presented by Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, the Great Pumpkin Round Up is included with a purchase of a regular admission ticket to The George Ranch.

www.georgeranch.org/general-admission/

Red and Blue United

Benefitting Sugar Land First Responders

Sunday, October 15th • 7 pm

The Smart Financial Centre

18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479

An inaugural event, which includes a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience Sponsor Dinner complete with Police, SWAT, Fire and EMS equipment, followed by a concert by Texas’ own Aaron Watson. All funds raised will go toward purchasing life-saving equipment, funding educational opportunities and meeting the emergency needs of First Responder Families. For questions, email info@finestandbravestsugarland.org.

www.RedAndBlueUnited.com

George Ranch Frontier Days

Benefitting The George Ranch and the Fort Bend History Association

Friday, October 20th (Field Trip Friday) • 9 am to 2 pm Saturday, October 21st • 9 am to 5 pm

The George Ranch

10215 FM 762 Rd, Richmond, TX 77469

For a great day of Fall family fun on Saturday, October 21st, visit Fort Bend’s famous spread for George Ranch Frontier Days. It’s a day filled with cowboys, cannons, history and fun with cattle working demonstrations, historic house tours, battle re-enactments, games, vendors, food trucks, live music and entertainment, hands-on activities and more!

For more information about Field Trip Friday, call 281.343.0218 ext. 220.

www.georgeranch.org/programs-events/georgeranch-frontier-days/

OCTOBER 2023 (Continued)

Santa’s Exchange and Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Flu Shot Toy Drive

Benefitting Families in Need in Fort Bend County

Saturday, October 21st • 3:30 pm

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

16655 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77479

Hosted in collaboration with Houston Methodist Sugarland, Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land and Toys for Tots offering free flu shots to participants. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy; no stuffed animals or clothing items. To register, please call 281.274.7976.

join.houstonmethodist.org/flushot-sl

NOVEMBER 2023

Sugar Land Field of Honor

Benifitting the Exchange Club Charities

Friday, November 10th thru Sunday, November, 12th

Brazos River Park near the University of Houston

Campus-Sugar Land

13850 University Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX 77479

The Sugar Land Field of Honor is designed to bring the community together in a patriotic tribute honoring heroes. Each flag represents an individual and tells a story. Community members may sponsor a flag to honor individuals currently serving in our military, veterans, fallen servicemen and women, first responders, educators, coaches, clergy, family members, co-workers or other heroes in their lives. The display is open to the public for free.

www.healingfield.org/sugarlandtx

Best in the West

Benefitting The Arc of Fort Bend

Saturday, November 11th • 6 pm

George Ranch Arena

10215 FM 762, Richmond, TX 77469

Co-Chaired by Jenny Gortney, James Patterson and Ann Smith, the mission of the Arc of Fort Bend County is to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Best in the West will feature their signature silent auction corrals, BBQ dinner, live music and a live auction boasting several amazing items including trips, parties and hunting excursions. For more information, call 281.494.5959.

https://e.givesmart.com/events/xl1/

JANUARY 2024

The Ultimate “Tailgate” Party

Benefitting The Homeless Pet Placement League

Saturday, January 27th • 6 pm

Sugar Creek Country

420 Sugar Creek Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77478

The Homeless Pet Placement League’s second annual fundraiser, co-chaired by Eileen Akerson, Vivian Douglas and Vicki Stevenson, to support and expand the mission of the HHPL, its programs and services in the community. For tickets and sponsorships, contact gala@hppl.org or call 281.658.6592.

www.hppl.org

MARCH 2024

2024 Wild West Brewfest

Benefitting Rotarty Club of Katy

March 21st thru 23rd

Typhoon Texas

555 Katy Fort Bend Rd, Katy, TX 77494

Chaired by David Loesch, the weekend will be full of great beer, live music, food and more. All proceeds are given back to the community.

www.wildwestbrewfest.com

APRIL 2024

13th Annual Pot of Gold Classic Golf Tournament

Benefitting Fort Bend Rainbow Room

Monday, April 1st • 11:30 am to 7 pm

Pecan Grove Country Club

3000 Plantation Drive, Richmond, TX 77406

Chairs Tonya Lewis and Wende Buckley invite everyone to join the fun at the 13th Annual Golf Tournament. All proceeds will help to meet the most basic needs of Fort Bend County children and adults who have been abused and neglected. For more information on donations, sponsorships and teams, email potofgoldclassic@gmail.com.

www.fbrr.org

APRIL 2024 (Continued)

Sugar Land Arts Fest

Benefitting the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation

Wednesday, April 27th thru Sunday, April 28th

Smart Financial Centre Plaza

18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479

Visit over a hundred artist booths, drink hand-selected wines, eat delicious food and enjoy live music. Mark your calendar because the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation and The City of Sugar Land will come together once again to bring the Sugar Land Arts Fest presented by Primeway Federal Credit Union to the community.

www.sugarlandartsfest.com

MAY 2024

Derby Day

Benefitting Reining Strength Therapuetic Horsemanship

Saturday, May 4th • 3:30 pm

JW Marriott Houston by the Galleria

5150 Westhiemer Rd, Houston, TX 77056

Reining Strength’s primary fundraiser, Derby Day, chaired by Alicen Swift and Sarah Self, continues to focus efforts on raising much needed funds to ensure that resources are available to help clients make great strides. For tickets or sponsorships: stephanie@reiningstrength.org or 832.451.6874.

www.reiningstrength.org

Community Community Events Events

the drunken cyclist

By Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. www.thedrunkencyclist.com

Wine 101

With the kids back in school, it is time for a little adult education, some Wine 101. I have been conducting wine tastings and wine education for the better part of two decades now, and some of the same questions come up repeatedly. Here are a few of those common queries with answers that might help you “pass” your next wine event.

Q: What is wine?

A: That’s an easy one. Basically, any fermented fruit juice is considered wine, but the vast majority of wine (99%+) comes from fermented grapes. There are over 10,000 species of wine grapes, but only a couple dozen or so are widely available.

Q: Why is there such a wide range of prices for wine? Are more expensive wines worth it?

A: Many factors go into the price of a bottle of wine, but by far the most significant is the cost of the fruit. In California, this can vary greatly, from a few hundred dollars per ton in the lesser-known regions, to as much as $20,000 per ton or more in Napa Valley. Why the huge difference? Part reputation, part “terroir,” which is, briefly, the quality of the environment where the grapes are grown (soil, climate, etc.). Other factors include whether the wine was aged in oak barrels, which can run as high as $2,000 per barrel.

As for “worth?” That is all in the tongue of the beholder. In my opinion, there are noticeable increases in quality with roughly every $10 augmentation in price (e.g., a $20 wine is usually noticeably “better” than a $10 bottle) up to perhaps $50 or $60. After that? While more expensive wines tend to be “better” than less expensive wines, the incremental change is less north of $50.

Q: Wine people seem like a pretty pretentious lot, always swirling their wine, sniffing the glass. Doesn’t it just smell like grapes?

A: There is a lot to unpack here. First, I would agree that there is far too much pretentiousness in the wine world, but there are good reasons for all the swirling and sniffing. Generally speaking, the presence of oxygen in the production of wine is a bad thing as it causes the wine to age prematurely and can make the wine taste stale or dull. Once the wine is in the glass, however, oxygen is a very good thing as it helps the wine “open up” or “breathe” essentially releasing aromas and flavors. One of the best ways to get oxygen into the wine is to swirl it around a bit either in a glass or a decanter.

As for the sniffing, the human tongue can detect five basic “tastes:” sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami (a savory meatiness found in soy sauce, mushrooms, aged steak, etc.). All other tastes actually come from the smells detected by the nose, which can discern around 10,000 different aromas. That is the reason that food tastes bland when you have a cold and causes you to over-salt or add more sugar, because those flavors can be detected by the tongue.

When it comes to discerning the aromas in wine, some are better than others. My older son is like the vast majority of the population; he smells a wine and says it “smells like grapes.” Others, like my younger son, can, through either “natural ability” or a lot of practice, pick up the many nuances of wine that make it so enchanting to millions of people.

Q: White wine with fish, red wine with meat. It sounds like there are a lot of rules with wine.

A: Let’s dispel one wine myth right now: There really are no rules when it comes to wine other than drink what you want when you want. Sure, for most people, that traditional rule of thumb works, but there is solid reasoning behind it. In general, seafood has softer proteins and fats and more delicate flavors. That is why it pairs well with most white wines. Beef and other meats have bigger and bolder flavors and tougher proteins, which is why red wine, which has an element that most white wines do not (tannin), is better suited for juicier, fattier meats.

But back to my main point: When it comes to wine, you do you. You want to have a big California Cabernet with your trout? Go right ahead. A light Pinot Grigio with ribeye? Sure, why not? Even though this is Wine 101, no one is grading you. We all get an A!

Do you have any questions about wine you want answered? Or perhaps help with a wine tasting? Reach me at: jeff@thedrunkencyclist.com.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital the No. 5 hospital in Houston and No. 9 hospital in Texas. The rankings are based on scores in patient care, patient safety, outcomes, nursing, advanced technology and reputation.

“It is an honor to be recognized on this prestigious list,” said Chris Siebenaler, Executive Vice President and CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “This recognition honors the health care professionals who

U.S. News & World Report ranks Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital as No. 5 in Houston

commit to not only leading medicine but to also delivering unparalleled safety, quality and service.”

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was recognized for high-performing specialties in gastroenterology & GI surgery, geriatrics and orthopedics. The hospital was also acknowledged for these high-performing procedures and conditions: acute kidney failure; colon cancer surgery; diabetes; heart attack; heart failure; knee replacement; leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma; pneumonia; prostate cancer surgery and stroke.

At the system level, Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center was once again named to U.S. News & World Report’s Honor Roll and named

the No. 1 hospital in Texas for the 12th year in a row, only this year tied with UT Southwestern in Dallas. U.S. News has ranked Houston Methodist Hospital in at least one specialty for the past 31 years and has placed it on its Honor Roll for the seventh time.

This year, Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked in 10 specialties. It had nine specialties ranked in the Top 20, with two of those nine ranked in the Top 5.

For the full list of rankings, visit health.usnews.com/best-hospitals.

To learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the services offered in Fort Bend County, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland

Cullinan Park Conservancy (CPC) invites photographers of all levels to submit photos to its annual photo contest. The contest is in conjunction with the Conservancy’s 7th annual “Picnic for the Park” luncheon on Friday, October 20th, at Sweetwater Country Club. The photo contest opens on August 1st and closes Friday, September 30th.

“We always look forward to the beautiful photos submitted each year and are amazed at the talent! We know it is not easy for the judges to choose, and we appreciate their thoughtful and experienced process for selecting the winners. We thank all the volunteers and the participants for helping make this contest a success, and we invite you to ‘Hit us with your best shot’! ” said Cullinan Park Conservancy President Keith Borgfeldt.

Photographers may submit up to three total photos in the following categories: Birds; Wildlife; Flora (trees, flowers, plants), Landscapes and Cell Phone Pictures (any subject). First, Second and Third places for each category will be announced and promoted on Social Media. First‐prize winners in each category will be awarded a $50 cash prize.

Thanks to Photo Contest sponsor Oxbow Advisors, CPC is using a new platform this year to help gather, sort and share photos with the judges of local photographers, park enthusiasts and stakeholders of Cullinan Park. Woobox will simplify the application process for participants allowing them to apply and submit photos easily on the Cullinan Park Conservancy website. It will also allow the public to vote on their favorite photo. The winner

of this “People’s Choice” poll will also receive a $50 cash prize.

Anyone can participate in the photo contest, and while there is no entry fee, all photographs must be taken at Cullinan Park, located just north of Sugar Land Regional Airport on Highway 6 in Sugar Land. The photos may be taken at any time of year.

For complete details and Contest Rules, visit www.cullinanparkconservancy.org/contest.

A Sampling of Last Year’s Winners:

2nd Place winner in the 2022 Wildlife category: Mohamed Khalid “Breakfast is Served.”

2nd Place winner in the 2022 Landscape category: Lisa Jump “Little Big Man.”

3rd Place winner in the 2023 Wildlife category: Karla Jordan “Orange Flair.”

“Hit Us With Your Best Shot!”

2023 Cullinan Park Photo Contest

School Has Started and You Have Homework!

It is September 2023. Many of you are enjoying peace and quiet at home – the kids are back in school! For seven to eight hours each school day, you have some time to do things you want to do for yourself. Parents still have to keep the kitchen pantry full, drive car pool and wash the family’s clothes, but you can find some time for you. With the time I have now, I throw my bicycle in my pickup truck and meet friends at Brazos Bend State Park for a relaxing ride. Of course, my friend and I always go to the Flying Cow in Booth to enjoy Wagyu burgers on the way home.

Nancy and I are “empty nesters.” Our daughter is independent, and our son is mostly independent. We like to spend more time thinking about things we want to see or do while we’re blessed to be alive and healthy. We talk about trips, adventures and unique experiences we have enjoyed or want to enjoy. We have what society calls a “bucket list.” I’m not sure why this list is called a “bucket list.” It probably has something to do with “kicking the bucket.” That’s pretty morbid.  Our list is not on paper, and it is certainly not morbid. Our “bucket list” is filled with our family, our hearts and our dreams.

Nancy and I were married on September 25, 1993.   Our first home was in an area called Aiea on the Island of Oahu in Hawaii.  Since we knew I was going to be leaving in May of 1994 for a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf in eight months, we knew we had to make each day together special. When the weekends came, we would jump in our Jeep Wrangler and roll to punch out items on our “Aloha bucket list.”   In January and February, we drove north to watch the surfers try to survive the massive breaking waves of the Banzai Pipeline. We held our breath as a tiny surfer disappeared after being wiped out by a 35-foot wall of water. He popped up after being under the water for fifteen or so seconds.  When we had our fill of surfing excitement, we would have late brunch of banana pancakes at Café Haleiwa.

If you are resident of Hawaii, the local airlines, Aloha and Hawaiian, would give you incredibly cheap, last-minute tickets called “kama’aina” for “native Hawaiians.” Nance and I flew over to Kauai, the Garden Island, to take in the beautiful Grand Canyon of Hawaii, Waimea Canyon.  We flew to Maui to watch the sunrise over Mount Haleakala.  On the big island of Hawaii,

Mauna Loa is the world’s largest volcano and is still active, with its last eruption in 1984. We got pretty cold at nearly 14,000 feet elevation going past Mauna Loa, so we decided to warm up in the old fishing village of Hilo on the east side of the Big Island.  Our plan was to follow the highway along the side of the ocean, back to our hotel on the west side. We had to turn around because the road from the Kilauea volcano completely was completely blocked with lava flowing into the ocean.  That meant another freezing ride past Mauna Loa.  It was great!

The Navy sent us to Washington, D.C. in December 1994. We had not started our family yet, so there was plenty of time to punch out items on our “Washington bucket list.”  We got

The best banana pancakes at Café Haleiwa.

bicycles and rode all over the National Mall, the trail to Mount Vernon (General Washington’s home), the CNO railroad trail into Maryland and the WOD railroad trail heading to the Appalachian Mountains in western Virginia.

Our “bucket list” included running a marathon, so we ran the Marine Corps Marathon in September 1995.  My 58-year-old father ran with us, too! The Marine Corps Marathon is called the People’s Marathon, and it lived up to that billing.  You are never alone as you run 26.2 miles.  Marines in uniform are throughout the course, from start to finish, cheering everyone on.  The marathon ends at the Iwo Jima Memorial, which celebrates the image of six Marines (including two Texans) proudly planting a huge American flag on Mount Suribachi.  In classic Marine fashion, signs are placed as the runners approach the finish line. The signs start at Mile 25.0. Then 25.1. 25.2, and so on.   We’re hurting, but by God, we’re going to finish this run.

All we need is a glimpse of that beautiful memorial through the trees.  We finally hit mile 26.0 – and there it was!  We finished a marathon!  We had to run the last 0.2 miles – uphill – around the memorial to finish?!?  The few, the proud, the Marines.

Kate was born on January 3, 1997.  Grant followed on April 9, 2000.  Nancy and I still had our impromptu “bucket list,” but it had to be modified so our kids could be with us to create memories.  Kate is a daredevil; no ride is too fast or too scary.  I accidentally allowed Kate to put an item on both her and my bucket list. On her fourth birthday, she wanted to skydive.  I did not want to crush my daughter’s dreams, so I told Kate we would skydive, together, on her 18th birthday.  We moved on.  Kate never again brought up skydiving, and I completely forgot my promise.  On January 3, 2015, Kate’s 18th birthday, she reminded me of my promise.  Uh oh.

So, a few weeks later, we drove to Rosharon.  After a thirtyminute briefing on how we could die skydiving, we climbed up to 13,000’ in a small plane and jumped while strapped to an instructor.  Kate went first; I followed her.  We were on the

ground in 90 seconds.  The best memory I have is my little girl with the biggest smile ever on her face!   Skydiving with your daughter is Fort Bend Strong!

Family “bucket list” items are fantastic ways for families to bond.  Grant was a young boy growing up in Texas, so he wanted to hunt for deer.  We put that dream on our “bucket list,” and a dear friend, Bud Friedman, gave Grant and I a chance to hunt deer on his ranch near Gonzales.  Grant and I spent hours cramped in a deer blind waiting for that one shot.  As we were about to leave for home, a nice buck walked out of the brush.  Grant lined up his shot, clicked the safety off and was ready to pull the trigger.  Ready…aim…STOP!  A herd of cattle walked out right behind our buck.  Both Grant and I knew that in Texas, if you shoot a deer, only the deer dies.  But, if you mistakenly shoot a cow, you may die.   Grant held his fire.  We went home with something more important than a trophy on a wall.  We came home with memories we’ll cherish until we die.   Time with your son is Fort Bend Strong!

Exploring Hawaii from our “Aloha bucket list.”

A huge “bucket list” achievement: Nancy and I completing the Marine Corps People’s Marathon in Washington D.C.

I would love to know what’s on your “bucket list.” Please zip me an email to pete@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

The best “bucket list” items are still to come for Nancy and I.  We recently spent two weeks hiking, biking, fly fishing, golfing, playing pickle ball, watching stunning sunsets, seeing a night sky full of stars, enjoying 85 degree high temperatures and eating in Ketchum, Idaho.  Getting away for the Texas summer heat is definitely a “bucket list” item. We have other places we want to go, too. I want to go to Antarctica, so I can complete my “bucket list” of spending time on every continent.  North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia done – Antarctica next. Nance wants to take a bicycle tour in Central Europe and visit the Czech Republic, Austria, Poland and Hungary.  We both want to see the Northern Lights, likely in North America.  A visit to an Irish bar for a pint of Guinness is on our list.  COVID forced us to cancel a cruise to Australia and New Zealand – it’s still on our “bucket list.” Who knows what we’ll add to our “bucket list” if we’re blessed with grandchildren?  Maybe we can follow William Shatner, Michael Strahan and Wally Funk by having a family trip with grandkids into space?  Grandkids are Fort Bend Strong!

A daddy/daughter “bucket list” adventure: skydiving.

Enjoying sunsets - definitely a “bucket list” item.

for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition

Balancing schedules, supplies shopping, meal planning and more can make the backto-school season one of the most hectic times of the year. Keeping stress at bay may be a little easier when you put a plan in place the entire family can follow.

Remember, making the transition as smooth as possible requires a team effort. Help make a new academic year easier on your little ones (and yourself) with these hacks.

Start Your Routines

Getting your kids into their school day routines may be a massive undertaking, but it’s often helpful to start weeks before the first bell rings. Set those alarms and encourage kiddos to treat each morning as if they’re going to class. In the evenings, practice prepping backpacks and outfits just as you would during the school year, and ensure children are going to sleep at the times they should on school nights.

Simplify School Lunches

Prepping lunchboxes to send to school doesn’t need to be a time-consuming affair. In fact, it can be one of the easiest parts of your routine with prepackaged options that help make packing lunches a breeze. Seek out solutions that help simplify the process like Kemps Smooth Cottage Cheese, a first-of-its-kind snack for kids made with 4% whole milk and blended with real fruit to create a smooth and creamy texture without the curds. Available in four-packs of 4-ounce cups in fun flavors like Mixed Berry, Strawberry and Strawberry Banana, it’s a healthy, convenient and versatile solution with probiotics and no high-fructose corn syrup. Plus, it’s high in protein to keep kids feeling full and focused throughout the school day.

Prep the Night Before

Stressful mornings can lead to less productive days. Instead, simplify mornings as much as possible by packing backpacks, prepping lunches and planning outfits in the evenings to save yourself time once that alarm goes off. Plus, you may be less likely to forget essentials like homework assignments or permission slips when you’re not in a rush.

Serve Nutritional After-School Snacks

Skip the temptation to stock the pantry with sugary grab-and-go treats. Instead, encourage good nutritional choices for your children after a day of learning by offering them healthier snacking solutions. For example, pairing cottage cheese with crackers or fresh fruit provides a protein punch without the added sugar of less healthy snack choices to keep little tummies full until it’s time for a family meal.

Create a Family Calendar

The school year certainly isn’t the only time that calendars feel like they’re bursting at the seams, but the addition of after-school activities, field trips, parent-teacher conferences and more can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Find a scheduling solution that works for your family, whether it’s a dry-erase board in a mudroom or magnetic calendar on the fridge. Stay on top of upcoming events and activities by sitting down together once a week (or more) to write down everyone’s commitments and track important dates.

To learn more and find fun recipes, visit Kemps.com.

Chives

By Alisa Murray www.alisamurray.com

Hey

Sweet Lifers! One of the easiest to grow and certainly a lovely addition to any garden is chives. They are, with reference to taste, the lightest of the onion family. They are also one of the oldest herbs as they have been cultivated for 5,000 years.

Culinarily speaking there’s nothing better on a baked potato than a fresh chopped chive. Anyone who is barely a cook at all knows immediately the vast difference in taste between a fresh chive and something dried. In the latter form, there’s just too much missing.

Chives are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, calcium, iron and potassium. In French cooking, chives are one of the “Les Fines Herbes,” along with parsley, chervil and tarragon. Chives are a popular addition to poultry and fish dishes, as well as breads and pancakes enhancing lightly every dish that needs a little something.

Medicinally, chives have been used for thousands of years. During the Roman Empire dried chives were hung around homes to ward off infections. Uses for the treatment of sore throats and sunburns to lowering blood pressure have all been recorded for this multi-purpose herb.

In the garden, chives are a perennial that if planted in a favorable spot will return annually. In my own garden, they have expanded annually to almost fill an entire raised bed. This herb is also an excellent insect repellant, because it has trace amounts of sulfur that pesky bugs do not like at all. Chives also are appealing to the “sweet” bugs, too, so it’s one of my favorites for attracting bees and ladies to the Sweet Life Garden!

Keep on growing!

Sugar

Land Heritage Foundation Announces 2023 President and New Board Members

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation (SLHF) announced the recently elected president for 2023 and the addition of three new board members.

Elected to serve as board president was retired engineer Carolyn Gilligan. When asked why she serves on the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation board, Gilligan stated, “We have such a unique history in Sugar Land, with its beginnings as the site chosen by Stephen F. Austin for his personal settlement, through the reconstruction era and the many years as a company town based on the philosophy of welfare capitalism. It is important to preserve this history for future generations.” The Foundation thanked retiring Board President Roy Cordes for his invaluable contribution as president and for his continued support as a member of the board.

The SLHF also elected three new board members. James Amaro, owner of Amaro Law Firm, has long-standing roots in Sugar Land. His family emigrated to Sugar Land in 1918 after fleeing the civil war in Mexico. Many of Amaro’s family, going back to his grandparents, worked at Imperial Sugar and are buried at the historical San Isidro Cemetery in Sugar Land. The Amaro family also has a long history with Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church in Sugar Land. When talking about his hometown of Sugar Land, Amaro said, “I have a strong connection to what I call home.”

Madeleine Calcote-Garcia, Executive Director of the Fort Bend History Association, grew up in Sugar Land and is all history all the time. She serves on the Fort Bend County Historical Commission, the Richmond Historic Commission and is an active member of the Texas Association of Museums. “Pre-

serving history is important to me, and I’ve worked to preserve the history of each place I’ve lived,” shared CalcoteGarcia.

For Director and Broker Associate of Hometown America, Inc., Kristin Lytle joining the SLHF as a board member was a natural fit. Lytle is also involved with Friends of Old Sugar Land and the Sugar Land Art Museum. Asked why she supports the Sugar Land Heritage

Foundation, she replied, “I wanted to preserve history to build our community for the future.”

Returning board members include Betty Anhaiser, Douglas Brinkley, Ramon Gomez, Taylor Landin, Paul Lock, Michael Madden, Claire Rogers, David Smith, Beth Wolf and Bridget Yeung.

For more information about the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation, visit www.slheritage.org

Carolyn Gilligan

Kristin Lytle

James Amaro

Madeleine-Calcote-Garcia

OF THE BEND

The Finest and Bravest Foundation of Sugar Land (FBFSL), an organization formed to support all of Sugar Land’s First Responders – Police, Fire and EMS – has announced their first annual event. “Red & Blue United – A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute” is scheduled for Sunday, October 15th, at The Smart Financial Centre, and the event kicked off with a sponsor party hosted by supporter Gary Becker.

Co-Chaired by KK and Scott West and Debbie and Marvin Marcell, the FBFSL will share the proceeds of this event, supporting the Sugar Land Police and Fire departments three ways: purchasing life-saving equipment, funding educational opportunities and meeting urgent needs of our First Responders and their families with a Compassion Fund.

For more information about “Red & Blue United – A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute,” visit www.RedAndBlueUnited.com.

“Red & Blue United – A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute” Leadership: Sugar Land Police Captain Chris Thompson, Co-Chairs KK and Scott West, Sponsor Party Host Gary Becker, Sugar Land Fire – EMS Chief Doug Boeker, Sugar Land Chief of Police Mark Poland, Co-Chairs Debbie and Marvin Marcell and Event Coordinator Lacie Chambers.

Matt and Melissa Hayslip.

Ann Smith and Gail Perley.

Pete Olson, Lori Shirley and Debbie Marcell.

Lee Ann and Tim Stubenrouch with Mark and Laura Millis.

Dr. Betty Baitland, Jo Ann Eagleton and Nell Ciancarelli.

Rashmi Sharma, Gary Becker and Sunny Sharma.

Photos by Jessica Kij.

R. D. and Heather Sedillo, Rose Herbst, Noell Myska, Drayton DuPree, Leeanne and Wagas Kurjee and Liz and Matt Wilcox.

Special guests attended “Drinks with Drayton,” a unique chemistry cocktail experience and private tour at the Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land. Guests enjoyed a one-on-one tour of the museum’s dinosaur exhibit, along with a tasting of craft cocktails created by the museum’s Drayton DuPree and lite bites.

Sugar Land Rotarians

Mary Favre and Pat Houck.

Congratulations to Mary Favre who was awarded the 2023 Rotarian of the Year from the Sugar Land Rotary Club for going above and beyond in her service of the club.

“Mary is no stranger to being an outstanding performer as all who have ever served with her know,” said Marvin Marcell, former Rotary President. “Once again, she shined all year serving Sugar Land via the Sugar Land Rotary Club. Her being named the 37th Rotarian of the Year for our Club is just desserts at its best. Congratulations Mary, and thank you!”

Hightower High School alum and former Willowridge High School registrar assistant fulfilled her lifelong dream when she was sworn in as officer in Fort Bend ISD’s (FBISD) police department in August.  Pearl Juarez worked at Willowridge for the past five years and was sworn into the district’s police department on the campus in front of students and staff.

“My main motivation for becoming a police officer is to make a difference in the lives of students and build positive relationships on my campus,” Juarez said. “As an employee and alum of the district, I believe in what Fort Bend ISD has to offer each child, and I want to help each student be successful in life.”

facebook.com/fortbendfocus

FBISD Police Chief David Rider swearing in new FBISD Officer Pearl Juarez at Willowridge High School.

AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

loss in fuel economy. And, for those car buyers who want a hybrid powertrain, there is the Santa Fe Hybrid with a 1.6 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine assisted by an electric motor that delivers 226 total combined horsepower. Fuel economy for the Santa Fe Hybrid is 33 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Step inside the Santa Fe, and you’ll find an interior that’s definitely upscale in feel and nothing like the “econo-box” bare bones materials that you would find on earlier Hyundai models. The instrument panel is able to be modified allowing the driver to choose a particular view.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size crossover from the Korean automaker that deserves to be viewed as a near-luxury model. Both the interior and exterior design and build are sharp and tight, and the safety technology is stateof-the-art. The only drawback is that all this comes with a price, and Hyundai can no longer be considered an all-around affordable brand. The Santa Fe is clearly in competition with the best in its class.

Hyundai started selling cars in the American market in 1986, not very long ago. And, back then, the cars were very affordable, but their build quality was definitely subpar. Their primary market was the third world where cost was more important than quality. But, about two decades ago, the look and the feel of Hyundai vehicles began to improve dramatically, and American car buyers started to take notice. Fast forward to today, and Hyundai can hold its own with its rivals from Japan.

A base 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a $28,750 price tag. It’s powered by a 191 hp, 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine that’s mated to an eight-speed transmission. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Higher trims come with a turbocharged version of the same engine that delivers 281 horsepower with very little

An intriguing feature that comes with the new Santa Fe is Hyundai’s Remote Smart Parking Assist. It’s built into the remote control key fob, and it can move the crossover into and out of tight parking spaces. No more trying to squeeze through your door when someone has parked way too close to you. The driver simply uses the key fob to drive the car forward or backward into or out of a parking space, without needing to be physically inside the vehicle. It’s a feature – and a vehicle – that’s easy to love.

By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.

Living the Sweet Life:

Lean in and let the cultivation for knowledge begin!

Hey Sweet Lifers! ‘Tis the season to cultivate and learn. I smell the inside of books and spilling ink as we roll into September and see another bunch of wildly intelligent younglings begin another semester of discovery. It’s one of my favorite times each year, because it is so full of possibility!

In going back to the university, I had forgotten how much I loved it—loved the reading, the opportunity to discover new things –and then there’s my most favorite of all – the writing! (No surprise to you Sweet Lifers who have been reading my writing for so long.) James has gotten a taste of what the experience is like as he has watched me as a student for the first time, and I think the idea to study something, anything really, has rubbed off on him. I am excited to have us both up to our eyeballs in books.

I have well-documented my thoughts regarding many things in countless columns over the years, and one of individuals I have always admired is Leonardo da Vinci. The ability to pack into one’s life so many different subjects and interests is, well, very sweet indeed. And y’all know that I have been mentoring young folks taking their first steps out of the nest to think about what they want to be when they grow up. Truthfully, I have encouraged them to make a list of stuff they love to do. Back in my days of stepping out, Daddy wanted either two things to happen. I was to go get a law degree, and kick some butt, or marry well and be the best stay-at-home mommy that a stay-at-home mommy could be. These days, though, I am guiding the younger ones with an experienced background in grit, perseverance and solid communication with God. These gifts He has given us are a clear path as to the directions we are to go.

Gifts are given to each person and for so many, not just one! That’s why I think it is sometimes difficult to decide what to do with oneself. I am sure Leonardo felt that way, and that is why he did so many things tapping into art, architecture, engineering and more. So, when James asked about French culinary cooking, and a few days later started up a conversation on Thomas Aquinas, and then expressed how cool it would be to serve others as a physician, I just encouraged him to try it all! I told him, as I am an example for any of you who might be tinkering with their calling, gifts have seasons.

This fall there will be two full time students in my house exploring in the sea of subjects just waiting to be absorbed. My son has a hankering to learn about economics and business, and I, of course, am rounding out my Masters’ program as September makes my one year anniversary in seminary. It has been a year of learning so much!

I have been many things and will become many more in this life. What matters the most is that we all find, cultivate and use our gifts to create our unique calling, and through that, we touch people’s lives. I assure you, God handles the rest!

Take care of you and stay “sweet!”