West Fort Bend

WEST FORT BEND

Richmond library has books & bargains

Contents &Staff

6 FEATURE STORY

A Fort Bend author wants to elevate enterprises and entrepreneurs, so she and her co-author launched a business book giveaway.

10 TALK OF THE TOWN Institute for Organization Management recognizes Juliette Nessmith.

14 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Food Truck Festival is coming to Rosenberg.

CHAIRMAN, EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Clyde King cking@hartmannews.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Marquita Griffin mgriffin@fbherald.com

ADVERTISING

Stefanie Bartlett sbartlett@fbherald.com Ruby Polichino ruby@fbherald.com

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

Marquita Griffin

Scott Reese Willey

Brandon Norvell

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Melinda Maya mmaya@fbherald.com

Rachel Cavazos rcavazos@fbherald.com

TO ADVERTISE

If you are interested in advertising in the West Fort Bend Living, please call 281-342-4474 and ask for Stefanie Bartlett or Ruby Polichino. We’ll be happy to send rates, and deadline information to you.

PHOTO & ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS

We are looking for fresh story ideas and enjoy publishing your articles in the West Fort Bend Living. If you have an story idea or photo to publish please send your information to mgriffin@fbherald.com with “West Fort Bend Living” in the subject line.

©2023West Fort Bend Living. All Rights Reserved. West Fort Bend Monthly is a sister publication of Fulshear Living Monthly, Greatwood Monthly, Pecan Grove Monthly and is a publication of the Fort Bend Herald. Our publishing headquarters is 1902 S. Fourth Street, Rosenberg Texas 77471.

FORT BEND COUNTY

5253 Hwy. 36 S Rosenberg, TX 77471 281.342.4626

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Business-savvy authors team to ‘demystify business ownership’ and share ambitious tips for success

by MARQUITA GRIFFIN | mgriffin@fbherald.com

When Amanda Furgiuele was a child, she romanticized writing in the fantasy genre, penning epic novels filled with dragon tales. “And I’m so glad I was wrong, for now away,” she said because, from her experiences of than two decades of entrepreneurship and business consultation, she has “a lot to say” in a separate genre.

Furgiuele’s first book, The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance, co-authored with Lynn Howard, was released last year.

“We really wanted to demystify business ownership and show our readers how to build a successful enterprise, so we broke this book down into easily-digestible chapters that focus on taking action and getting results,” Furgiuele said.

Furgiuele and Howard met in Maui at a Business Networking International meeting years ago and “knew early on that [they] would work together.”

“It was obvious from the start that we had similar business and life values and goals,” Furgiuele said. “We were on a Zoom call talking about business in November of 2021 and we both said we needed to write a book — we’ve been saying it for years — and we finally decided we needed to walk the walk and put our words into action.”

The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance was published in July 2022.

The book focuses on “understanding and embracing the entrepreneurial mindset and journey,” Furgiuele said. “We talk about imposter syndrome, perfectionism, growth and fixed mindset, productivity and efficiency, your best clients, delegation, strategic tips and techniques, and getting out of your own way.”

Achievement in business, said Furgiuele, is “adjusting your own mindset and understanding your time worth value and how to work smarter,” so The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance “aims to teach new and aspiring business owners how and why they make the decisions that truly matter in creating a business and life they love.”

To celebrate its one-year anniversary, Furgiuele and Howard launched a limited-time giveaway of free, signed, paperback copies of the book while supplies last. While Furgiuele said the book would specifically benefit “new and aspiring business owners, seasoned entrepreneurs, sales teams, and hobbyists looking to up-level” she feels it will aid anyone interested.

For a chance to receive a free paperback edition (after paying shipping and handling), visit www.ThePursuitofBadasserie.com or email info@thepursuitofbadasserie.com.

“Anyone can grab this book,” she said. “We want to help you grow in life and business and there is more to this book than just work.”

BOOK NO. 2 AND MORE TO COME

Howard and Furgiuele didn’t stop with one book. In March 2023, they released their second book, The Pursuit of Badasserie, The Sales Edition: Badass Business Sales Solutions.

“Before our editor had even completed the first round of revisions for book one, my co-author and I were talking about book two. We have over 40 years of combined experience in business and entrepreneurship, so we have a lot to say,” Furgiuele said.

Following what she called a “brain dump,” Furgiuele and Howard created a master list of, what is now, 10 books in the works.

“It took a lot of back-and-forth to finally pick sales to be book two,” Furgiuele said. “But because sales are such an incredibly important part of building a business, and because so many people are afraid of being ‘in sales,’ we thought this would be the perfect follow-up.” Among additional topics, Badass Business Sales Solution discusses sales strategies, closing techniques, mindset shifts, sales psychology, building authentic relationships, networking and referral partners — it “is the definitive guide to getting the sale without selling your soul,” Furgiuele said.

“There are seemingly endless negative connotations about being in sales, but the truth is, if you own a business, you are in sales. If you’re on a dating site, you are in sales. If you have ever tried to convince your kid to eat vegetables, you are in sales. We just wanted to demystify the whole sales process and make it less “icky” for anyone in business.”

She notes that while both books complement one another, they’re stand-alone works. And “because business can be daunting and bland,” the books are designed in an “easy-to-follow, engaging, accessible” manner, and the chapters include a “Track Your Badasserie” worksheet so readers can implement strategies immediately.

“It’s kind of a ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ format,” Furgiuele said. “You can open any of our books, read a chapter on the subject you need, then put it in action.”

Subsequent planning between Furgiuele and Howard also led the co-authors to record a podcast and start their first online business course on sales — both of which are additional elements included in what Furgiuele refers to as The Pursuit of Badasserie empire.

“Our next book is slated to release in the first quarter of 2024, with several more on the horizon,” Furgiuele said. “My co-author and I are also working on our own personal books, which should also release at the beginning of next year. Now that I’ve finally gotten out of my own way, I have a million ideas and stories I want to write.

“I can’t wait,” she said enthusiastically.

The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance and The Pursuit of Badasserie, The Sales Edition: Badass Business Sales Solutions are available through Amazon and a few independent book stores across the United States and Thailand. The audiobooks are available on Audible. Co-authors are (left) Amanda Furgiuele and (right) Lynn Howard.

Amanda Furgiuele isn’t shy about her appetite for life. She calls herself tenacious, a bit of a workaholic, an unapologetic go-getter, and driven, although she considers “driven” to be an understatement. In addition to becoming an author, she’s balancing her life, which is a combination of motherhood, writing, podcasting, homeschooling, traveling, and multiple business ventures. “I’m not everyone’s cup of tea,” she said. “I’m more like a shot of whiskey.”

Marquita Griffin: Why is The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance important to you?

Amanda Furgiuele: Other than the fact that this book is my first and that in and of itself is special, it has opened up a new door for me. I have always wanted to be an author and now I am. I know it’s possible and this is only the beginning. From non-fiction to self-help, children’s literature, and more, I can’t wait to write, write, write. When we published it, we were so excited to hit the Amazon best-seller list in just a matter of hours! Moreover, we just recently discovered that both of our books were chosen as finalists in the prestigious International Book Awards (IBA) for Small Business and Entrepreneurship and Sales, respectively. We knew we loved our books, and it feels pretty incredible to join a distinguished group of past laureates, including Pope Francis, Amy Tan, Anne Lamont, George Sanders, Julie Andrews, Vanessa Williams, Clive Barker, Shark Tank’s Daymon John, Brad Thor, Kitty Kelley, and many others.

MG: You’ve been awarded with the Mayor’s Business Awards for Young Small Business Person of the Year (2019), Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics (2018), and the Pacific Business Edge Young Professional of the Year Award (2016); tell me about your entrepreneurial experiences and ventures.

AF: I have a few, but I’ve been working (unofficially) in business consulting for almost 20 years. I also own and co-own two dance and movement studios in Hawaii, am a partner in a Cabaret and Burlesque Company, have a few side hustles and hobby businesses, and have bought and sold multiple businesses in multiple states. AF Consulting Team LLC is one of my current enterprises and I have companies, partners, and clients in multiple states and countries. It’s a lot, but I love it.

MG: How long have you been an author?

AF: I have been an aspiring author all my life. If you looked at my “what I want to be” posters from kindergarten, which I’m sure my mom still has, it would list “writer” as my future occupation. I started writing for a small local paper when I was fifteen and was a collaborator on a few books and articles in college, but The Pursuit of Badasserie series was my first official publication.

MG: How did you and Lynn Howard contribute to and collaborate on these books?

AF: Lynn and I have a unique partnership full of our individual strengths and weaknesses. In a lot of ways, we divide and conquer and honestly, it couldn’t be a better fit. Where she gets out in the world (lit- erally — she’s based in Thailand) and networks, I tackle the behind-the-scenes workings of websites, tech, and editing. We share many core values and both process and work at a high rate of speed and efficiency, which is the foundation of how we are able to do so much. We also trust that the other will “get it done” so we don’t have to micro-manage each other; rather, we motivate each other. In working on the books, we carved out weekly, sometimes daily meetings and check-ins over Zoom, and then wrote our own chapters individually. Each chapter notes who wrote it, and in the audiobooks, we narrate our own chapters.

MG:: What are your hopes for the books?

AF: Is it too early to say world domination? (laughs) Just kidding. But we truly do want to reach millions of entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners. We want to make a difference and leave the world better than we found it. We are building an empire and the books are step one. That’s why we are giving away free, signed copies of our first book (just pay shipping and handling) and offering free master classes in business—to reach as many people as possible. We are also in negotiations to have our books translated into multiple languages. Maybe one day our books will even be required reading for business students and sales teams—I know I would have benefited from reading this information a long, long time ago.

Drinks

Arts Fashion

Unique Food Antiques

So Much To See and Do In One Day

• Boutique wines and craft beers

• Organic soaps and lotions

• Watch artists in action

• Vintage clothing and jewelry

• Locally owned eateries

• Old Fashioned Soda Fountain

• Over 5,000 craft ribbon selections

• Tropical, rare foliage and succulents

• Chalk paint by Annie Sloan

• Live community theater

• Custom jewelry

• Interactive railroad museum

• Nostalgia candy

• Antiques and collectibles

• Unique metal art

Only 30 minutes Southwest of Houston, Texas to experience amazing food, entertainment, shopping, arts and much more in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

Historic Downtown Rosenberg www.rosenbergartsalliance.com

Connect with us to find out about events:

Greatwood Veterinary Hospital

At Greatwood Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated to providing excellent and compassionate care for your furry, family friends. We offer full veterinary services in our new, spacious 6,500 square foot facility. Our experienced and caring veterinarians and staff strive to provide the best quality care available for your pets, with an emphasis on client education and an understanding of your pet’s specific needs. We would like to be partners with you in ensuring your pet’s good health and well-being. In addition to full medical, surgical, and dental veterinary care, we also offer boarding, grooming, and cremation services. Greatwood Veterinary Hospital has been providing affordable and quality veterinary care to the Fort Bend area for over 15 years. It is our hope that we can meet all your animal’s health care needs with our warm, friendly, and knowledgeable services.

To make an appointment for your pet or for more information, please call us at (281) 342-7770 or visit us at 401 Crabb River Road in Richmond.

Rocky Lane (center) was presented the “Quilt of Valor” by Annette Warmke and Pam Wittneben, members of the Texas Hills Quilters of Llano, Texas and who quilted the quilt.

SCOTT REESE WILLEY | swilley@fbherald.com

Arboretum at Seabourne Creek Nature Park includes 80 trees, 12 picnic benches, walking trails, play area story & photos by by

Seabourne Creek Nature Park was already one of the best parks in Fort Bend County. Now it’s even better. City leaders and officials with Niagara Bottling Co. and the National Recreation & Park Association celebrated the completion of the 6-acre arboretum addition to the park with a ribbon-cutting celebration last month.

The arboretum, located next to the duck pond and butterfly garden and bat house includes 12 picnic tables, 2,000 feet of gravel walking trails, 80 trees native to the area and a play area.

Rosenberg Mayor Kevin Raines said the $75,000 addition makes the nature park one of the best parks in the state. The project was funded thanks to Niagara Bottling, through its charitable program, Niagara Cares, and in partnership with National Recreation and Park Association. Through Niagara Cares, Niagara Bottling and NRPA have perked 17 parks since 2015, often bringing in Niagara volunteers to build out the park and celebrate its completion.

Each year, Niagara and NRPA seek to make park dreams come true by focusing on improving access to community spaces, nature and healthy living in under-resourced communities through the Perk Your Park program.

“At Niagara, we strongly believe in supporting the communities where we live and work,” said Ann Canela, director of corporate giving for Niagara.

To win the contest, residents were encouraged to go online to Niagara Bottling Company’s Perk Your Park contest site and cast a vote for their community. The three communities receiving the most votes shared $2 million or so in grant money.

“Our Team Members were happy to help complete The Arboretum at Seabourne Creek in Rosenberg. It’s important for us to connect with our neighbors and create meaningful change for local young people to get outside to enjoy an educational and fun environment.” The $75,000 in grant funding transformed six acres of open space into a home of native trees, new crushed granite pathways, a new green space, and picnic area with tables nestled under the tree canopies complimenting the existing character and charm of the nature park. The picnic tables are all placed on concrete pads. Two of them already are covered and the rest will be covered in the future.

Volunteers with the Texas Master Gardeners Program and Niagara Bottling Company’s Rosenberg facility did much of the tree planting and installation of the irrigation system. The arboretum also includes educational signage for native trees. An educational pavilion will be

built on the arboretum site at a later date.

“Local park and recreation agencies serve a vital role in connecting communities to the outdoors, creating spaces that are educational, resilient, and transformative,” said Ayanna Williams, NRPA Director of Community and Environmental Resilience. “We are excited to see the City of Rosenberg’s Seabourne Creek Arboretum engage new community members for decades to come.”

Seabourne Creek Nature Park is located at 3831 Highway 36 South and includes a wildlife area.

“I am very thankful that Rosenberg was selected for this generous grant through the National Recreation and Park Association and Niagara Bottling,” said Rosenberg City Manager John Maresh. “I have watched the progress as the Rosenberg Parks Department, the Texas Master Naturalists and the volunteers from Niagra came together to plant so many beautiful trees, and add new walking paths and picnic areas. I know our residents and the visitors to the park are looking forward to enjoying the new additions.”

Leadership training program propels

Juliette Nessmith to IOM recognition

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, announced that Juliette Nessmith, IOM, Director of Special Events for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, graduated from the program and has received the recognition of IOM.

Awarded to all graduates of the Institute program, the IOM Graduate Recognition signifies the individual’s completion of a four-year program with 96 credit hours of course instruction in non-profit management. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

“Juliette has served the Fort Bend Chamber with distinction for 10 years. She is a tenured professional who has been an outstanding representative for the Fort Bend Chamber,” said Keri Schmidt, President & CEO of the Fort Bend Chamber.

“Her contribution to our organization is invaluable. Achieving the IOM designation is just another one of her great accomplishments.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants can enhance their organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and

Texas Master Naturalist Jerry Trenta, Rosenberg Parks Director Cary Lamensky, Niagara Bottling Co. director Tony Dexter, Rosenberg Mayor Kevin Raines, Rosenberg City Manager John Maresh and President of the Coastal Prairie chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program Terri Hurley celebrate the grand opening of the Arboretum at Seabourne Creek Nature Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The city of Rosenberg, Niagara Bottling Co. and the National Recreation & Park Association teamed up to install a 6-acre arboretum at Seabourne Creek Nature Park. The arboretum includes 80 trees, 2,000 feet of gravel pathways and 12 picnic benches.

Educational signage is located throughout the 6-acre arboretum.

Juliette Nessmith (center), IOM, Director of Special Events for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

effectively.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of the Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Young men build butterfly garden as 'ultimate gift' for Parks Youth Ranch

arks Youth Ranch has been chosen by the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) Sugar Land Chapter to receive this year’s “Ultimate Gift” of a breathtaking butterfly garden created over a two-day philanthropic event.

Through the YMSL-Sugar Land Chapter, a total of 44 high schoolaged young men and their mothers dedicated 16 hours and $1500 donated materials and supplies in support of Parks Youth Ranch to help beautify the landscape and serve as a space for tranquility, education and observation for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The young men and their moms that participated in the community service project are part of the Sugar Land Chapter of the national nonprofit organization, Young Men’s Service League. This local chapter is comprised of 79 9-12th grade young men and their moms from the Sugar Land/Richmond/Missouri City area.

added a beautiful space to our outdoor landscape.”

This special community project is YMSL- Sugar Land’s Chapter’s choice for their annual Ultimate Gift campaign. The YMSL Ultimate Gift is a multi-day philanthropic event dedicated to one philanthropy partner per year. The goal is to do something transformational for the philanthropy, something that it may otherwise not have had the manpower or resources to do for itself.

Your Home for Dentistry

“Parks Youth Ranch is honored to have been chosen as the recipient of the YMSL Sugar Land Chapter’s 2023 Ultimate Gift. The Chapter purchased the materials, built a raised bed, and planted dozens of plants,” said Parks Youth Ranch’s Development Officer Angela Boepple. “This butterfly garden has attracted many butterflies and

Dr. McCrea has been creating healthy, beautiful smiles in Richmond/Rosenberg since 1994. Dr. McCrea and Dr. Vo are both graduates of and current Professors at the Herman Hospital based General Practice Residency Program for UTDS Houston. Their goal is to work with each patient to produce the best possible outcome based on that patient’s individual needs and desires.

Dr. Kyle D. McCrea & Dr. Mary George YOUR HOME FOR DENTISTRY

Dr. McCrea has been creating healthy, beautiful smiles in Richmond/Rosenberg since 1994. Dr. McCrea and Dr. George are both graduates of and current Professors at the Herman Hospital based General Practice Residency Program for UTDS Houston. Their goal is to work with each patient to produce the best possible outcome based on that patient’s individual needs and desires.

“Through the donation of time, labor and materials, our goal was to support Parks Youth Ranch’s efforts to continue beautifying the grounds of their 8-acre ranch, said Kathryn Self, YMSL Sugar Land’s Ultimate Gift Coordinator. “Through this ultimate gift project, we have built something that can be enjoyed by the young people that live onsite, the staff and as well as visitors for years to come.”

The raised bed of the butterfly garden is just under 150 sq ft and 22 inches deep and not only provides a beautiful aesthetic, but also supports the conservation of butterflies, benefits the environment as butterflies are important pollinators, and provides educational value by bringing an awareness of nature to those who observe it as well as joy and relaxation. This is especially important given that Parks Youth Ranch supports children in crisis and the therapeutic effects of nature is an important element in the nonprofit’s mission of support, YMSL officials said.

Parks Youth Ranch opened its doors in 2011 to provide emergency shelter, counseling, and additional services to abused and neglected youth ages 7-17. The ranch sits on eight acres of land and has two fully stocked fishing ponds — providing children in crisis with the therapeutic effects of nature and the aesthetics of a family-style ranch home. Park Youth Ranch staff strive to provide the youth they serve with all of their physical, emotional, and educational needs.

Since its inception, YMSL members have served over 2 million community service hours. In addition to service, as part of its fouryear comprehensive program, YMSL teaches leadership and life skills to help develop our young men into capable, confident, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow. www.YMSL.org

Volunteers needed for Texas Adopt-A-Beach 2023 Coastwide Fall Cleanup

Volunteers are encouraged to participate in the 2023 Texas Adopt-A-Beach Coastwide Fall Cleanup on Sept. 23. This year’s cleanup effort features 24 locations across the Texas coast.

“It was truly an honor to work alongside thousands of volunteers to remove over 73,000 pounds of trash from the Texas coast during the Spring Adopt-A-Beach Coastwide Cleanup in April,” said Texas Land Commissioner Dr. Dawn Buckingham.

“This fall, I challenge Texans and volunteers from across the coun-

PDr. Kyle D. McCrea and Dr. Victoria Vo

try to help make the upcoming coastwide cleanup another resounding success by seizing this opportunity to show our appreciation and respect for Texas’ beaches, their ecosystems and our coastal communities. Through the GLO’s Adopt-A-Beach-Program we can continue to build a better future for our beautiful Texas coastline.”

The Adopt-A-Beach program began in the fall of 1986 when 2,800 volunteers picked up 124 tons of trash. Since then, more than 567,000 Texas Adopt-A-Beach volunteers have picked up nearly 10,000 tons of trash from Texas beaches.

To sign up as a volunteer visit TexasAdoptABeach.org.

Golf Fore Autism tournament set for Oct. 2

The 8th Annual Golf Fore Autism, presented by Landmark Charities at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land is set for Oct. 2. Proceeds benefit the local autism nonprofit, Hope For Three which provides resources and support to families with members living with autism.

Golfing and networking are only part of the fun while taking on both courses, doubling the impact of raising funds and awareness.

The tournament will feature creative contests at various holes, lunch, food on the courses (thanks to Lopez Mexican Restaurant and Smokehouse BBQ), live and silent auctions, raffles, wine pull, and more. The dinner and awards ceremony will immediately follow 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, OCuSOFT, Regions Bank, Trusted Senior Specialists, GFL Environmental, Cooltime Services, Albemarle Foundation, Liberty Engine-South Texas, and more supporters offer individual play for $150, a team of four is $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 wine pull. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with breakfast sponsored by First Watch, The Daytime Cafe. The tournament starts at 11 a.m. To register a team, sign up as a sponsor, volunteer, or donate, visit www.hopeforthree.org.

Tanya Justice | From left, Gordon Macintosh-Beatson, JD Hawk, George Shaw, and John Zera attend Golf Fore Autism annually and play in honor or Mr. Shaw’s autistic granddaughter, Daphne. He shared, “Someday I hope to start a trend where more folks put a picture of their special angels on their golf carts.” Daphne rides, in spirit, shot gun with her photo displayed front and center.

First Food Truck Festival rolls into Rosenberg

Discover Downtown Rosenberg is inviting the public to join the first Food Truck Festival happening on Sept. 16 in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

The festival runs from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.. in the Downtown parking lot at 2221 Ave F and more than 30 vendors are expected at the event.

Admission to the event is free and open for the public. For more information about the Food Truck Festival, call 832-595-3301, visit rosenbergtx.gov, or email communications@rosenbergtx.gov.

Find books and bargains at the local library

For book lovers looking for deals, the Friends of the George Memorial Library organization has long had an ongoing book sale in the lobby of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

People who love books, people who love bargains, and people who need to get rid of some spare change will find low prices on books for children and teens, fiction and non-fiction books for adults, classics, graphic novels, inspirational books, romance novels, science fiction, and textbooks, as well as audiobooks, music CDs, movie DVDs, and even puzzles. The selection also includes large-print books and books in Spanish.

Prices of items in the book sale range from 50¢ for paperback children’s books to $1.50 for hardback fiction books. A library card is not required to shop at the Friends’ book sale.

Money raised by the Friends of the Library Book Sale has provided funding for special adult and children’s programs, cultural events, and staff development and continuing-education programs for library employees.

Donations of gently-used books, audio CDs, DVDs, and puzzles are always welcome and may be taken to the library during regular business hours. All contributions are tax-deductible.

Items that cannot be accepted include cassettes, VHS tapes, encyclopedias, legal statutes, case books, National Geographic and other magazines, or books that are damp, moldy, dirty, or insect-ridden.

The Friends of the Library groups are nonprofit, all-volunteer organizations. New members are always welcome.

Friends of the Library members support the library in a variety of ways. Some members are able to donate their time and expertise to support, promote, raise awareness of their libraries, and augment the resources of their libraries. They do this through advocacy and through fundraising (usually book sales).

For those with limited time, simply becoming a member and paying annual membership dues is a wonderful way to show support of the library.

For information on how to become a Friend of the George Memorial

Library, ask for an application at the library, visit www.fortbend.lib. tx.us. Call George Memorial Library at 281-342-4455 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734 for assistance.

Annual spelling bee supports literacy organization’s efforts

The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County announced that “the beehive is buzzing” in preparation for the 14th annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee, set for 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Quail Valley Golf Course.

Presented by CenterPoint Energy & Houston Federal Credit Union, the spelling bee benefits the Literary Council, a local nonprofit that provides literacy classes and resources through thousands of volunteer tutors.

Last year, the bee raised more than $29,000 to provide more than 13,000 hours of instruction to over 400 students in our community who enrolled in English as a Second Language, US Citizenship, High School Equivalency or Adult Basic Literacy courses.

“We would greatly appreciate your support of the Literacy Council and the students we serve,” nonprofit officials said.

For more information visit www.ftbendliteracy.org.

Fall-time lineup features a local festival and more

“Fall” into some of Sugar Land’s most anticipated events that are on the horizon, said city officials about the upcoming festive, family-friendly and fun events in the Sugar Land.

The city will lead planning efforts for the first-ever Parking Day experience on Friday, Sept. 15, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Sugar Land Town Square, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North. PARK(ing) Day is an annual international event where the public collaborates to temporarily transform parking spaces into small parks to demonstrate the value of parks and open spaces. This community event will reimagine public spaces, foster community and business engagement, and promote team building. Applications are available now and will be accepted throughout the month of August from community members ready to create a park out of a parking space for the day. There is no theme for PARK(ing) Day and imagination is encouraged.

A little more than a week later, Sugar Land Town Square will serve as the fall backdrop for the Sugar Land Fall Fest on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This festive event will include fall activities, an artisans market, food and entertainment, and an assortment of attractions. The main stage will energize viewers with upbeat music and dance performances. A family fun zone with additional activities will feature DIY art and craft projects facilitated by favorite Sugar Land businesses and community organizations.

Next up is the pups’ favorite event within the Parks Event Series, Yappy Hour. Featuring pet-friendly activities, music and a variety of food and beverages on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Pawm Springs Dog Park, located inside Sugar Land Memorial Park at 15300 University Blvd. Bring pets along for free activities and entertainment while grabbing a bite to eat.

Back by popular demand is the Sugar Land Haunted House to round out the fall season. The Imperial Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way, will transform into a Haunted House for the entire weekend of Friday-Sunday, Oct. 27-29. Don’t miss out on the fun and freight. Time and ticketing information will be made available soon.

For more information about events or to become an event sponsor, contact Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at 281-275-

2825 or visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/specialevents.Follow Sugar Land Parks and Recreation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @SugarLandParks.

Cullinan Park ‘Hit Us with Your Best Shot!’ photo contest closes Sept. 30

Cullinan Park Conservancy 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 opened in August and closes Friday, September 30.

“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,” said Cullinan Park Conservancy President Keith Borgfeldt. “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.’”

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, a new platform is available 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 al-

lowing 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.

bring to a boil. Add almonds; cook and stir mixture until liquid evaporates and leaves a syrupy coating on almonds.

3Pour almonds onto the prepared baking sheet; use two forks to separate clumps and spread into an even layer. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes.

Beignets

INGREDIENTS

1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast

1 ½ cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)

1 cup evaporated milk

½ cup white sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

7 cups all-purpose flour, divided

¼ cup shortening

1 quart vegetable oil for frying

¼ cup confectioners’ sugar

DIRECTIONS

1Dissolve yeast in warm water. Pour into a large bowl and stir in evaporated milk, white sugar, eggs, and salt. Add 4 cups flour and beat until smooth.

Caramel Chocolate Corn

INGREDIENTS

16 cups popped popcorn

1 cup roasted peanuts

1 cup brown sugar

½ cup butter

¼ cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon salt

12 wooden skewers

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 tablespoon vegetable shortening

DIRECTIONS

1Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place a baking rack on top of a large baking sheet.

2Thread each slice of bacon onto a skewer; place skewered bacon on the baking rack.

3Bake bacon in the preheated oven until crisp; 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.

4Combine chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until chocolate is melted and smooth, stirring after each interval.

5Coat each side of the skewered bacon with the chocolate mixture using a pastry brush. Place coated bacon on a sheet of waxed paper. Refrigerate until firm, at least 30 minutes. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve.

2

Mix in shortening. Mix in remaining 3 cups flour. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours.

3Roll dough out on floured surface to 1/8inch thick. Cut into 2 1/2-inch squares.

4Heat oil in a deep pot to 360 degrees F (180 degrees C).

5Fry beignets in batches until browned and puffed. (If beignets sink and do not pop up, oil is not hot enough.) Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

6Shake confectioners’ sugar over hot beignets. Serve immediately.

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup milk chocolate chips

1 teaspoon shortening

DIRECTIONS

1Grease cookie sheets.

2Place popcorn and peanuts in a paper bag. Set aside.

3In a microwave safe bowl, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, vanilla and salt. Microwave 4 minutes, until bubbly. Stir in baking soda. Pour over popcorn mixture and shake bag to coat.

4Roll down edges of bag and place bag in microwave. Heat for 2 minutes, shaking three times to mix. Spread mixture onto prepared sheets to cool.

5In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate and shortening. Microwave 90 seconds, stirring once, until melted. Drizzle over popcorn mixture. Let cool before serving.

Candied Almonds

INGREDIENTS

1 cup white sugar

½ cup water

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 cups whole almonds

DIRECTIONS

1Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.

2Combine sugar, water, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat;

Chocolate-Covered Bacon

INGREDIENTS

12 slices thick-cut bacon

Corn Dogs

INGREDIENTS

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

¼ cup white sugar

4 teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup milk

1 egg

1 quart vegetable oil for frying

2 (16 ounce) packages beef frankfurters

16 wooden skewers

INSTRUCTIONS

1Combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl; stir in milk and egg to make a batter.

2Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Meanwhile, pat frankfurters dry and insert a skewer into each one. Roll frankfurters in batter until well coated.

3Fry 2 or 3 corn dogs at a time in preheated oil until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

black pepper.

3Preheat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 365 degrees F (180 degrees C).

4Dip drained pickles into milk mixture and then dredge them in the flour mixture. Deep fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Salt and pepper to taste

Corn Fritters

INGREDIENTS

3 cups oil for frying

1 cup sifted all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon white sugar

1 large egg, lightly beaten

½ cup milk

1 tablespoon shortening, melted

1 (12 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained

DIRECTIONS

1Heat oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C).

2Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a medium bowl. Beat egg, milk, and melted shortening together in a small bowl. Stir egg mixture into flour mixture. Stir in corn.

3Working in batches, drop fritter batter by spoonfuls into the hot oil. Fry until golden.

4Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Deep Fried Dill Pickles

INGREDIENTS

2 eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon vinegar-based hot pepper sauce

¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper

¼ teaspoon seasoning salt

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup cornmeal

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

¾ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 (32 ounce) jar dill pickle slices

1 cup vegetable oil for deep frying salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

1In a large bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/4 cup of the flour, buttermilk, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, seasoning salt and garlic powder.

2In a separate mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, 2 cups flour, salt and 3/4 teaspoon

Deep-Fried Kool-Aid

INGREDIENTS

2 quarts vegetable oil for frying

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup white sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ (.13 ounce) envelope unsweetened soft drink mix, any flavor (such as KOOL-AID®)

1 cup milk

2 eggs

3 tablespoons melted butter

Continued on page 21

Hope For Three praises scholarship winners

photos by HOPE FOR THREE AUTISM ADVOCATES

Hope For Three, an autism advocacy and resource organization, announced the recipients of their annual scholarship program.

Among the deserving winners is Jillian Hahn, a young woman with autism who received the prestigious Nina Saha-Gupta scholarship. Two other exceptional individuals, Nawal Shabib and Andrew Dittmar, who have siblings with autism, received the Finley Eugene Hibbeler Scholarship awards.

“These inspiring individuals have demonstrated remarkable determination, resilience, and passion for their chosen fields of study and the autism community,” officials said.

Jillian Hahn is a dedicated student working towards her associate degree and is determined to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Winning the scholarship from Hope For Three holds a profound significance for her.

“It feels like ever since I was first diagnosed, Hope For Three has been there for me,” said Hahn. “College means that I’m investing in my future, and I think it’s worth it, so I’m thankful for this support.”

With this scholarship, Jillian aims to overcome financial barriers and continue her pursuit of knowledge in the meteorology field.

Nawal Shabib will pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Houston. She aims to continue her studies at the graduate level, either by attaining a Ph.D. or attending medical school. Having volunteered actively with Hope For Three’s Teen Huddle for the past four years, Nawal has witnessed firsthand the organization’s positive impact on individuals and families affected by autism.

“Seeing the smiles on the siblings and the kids on the

spectrum while volunteering will forever remain ingrained in my heart,” said Shabib. “The gratitude from the parents and all the families is priceless and something I can relate to from my own experiences.”

Nawal plans to use the funds to support her academic endeavors, covering expenses such as books and transportation to school.

Andrew Dittmar has a passion for engineering, particularly civil engineering. His interest in building and constructing things blossomed over the years, and his dedication to his studies is admirable.

“This scholarship means that I’m helping to contribute to paying for my education,” said Dittmar. “It will help my whole family. My sister has a lot of medical needs and expenses, and any award would help with tuition and housing.”

For more information visit www.hopeforthree.org.

LCISD dedicates school in honor of influential businessman

story and photo by BRANDON NORVELL | bnorvell@fbherald.com

Lamar Consolidated Independent School District dedicated its newest elementary campus in honor of a late businessman who believed education was the key to success. Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr. Elementary is located at 26229 Fulshear-Gaston Road.

In attendance were Bernard “Cliff” Terrell’s widow, Roberta Terrell, and daughter Tyanne Terrell.

Family and friends of the late businessman also attended to honor the achievements he had accomplished in his life. Terrell passed away in March 2013.

Terrell has served as executive vice president for the Richmond/Rosenberg Chamber of Commerce and the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. He also was vice president for the Fort Bend County Literacy Council and served in various positions for many organizations.

“He believed in education and he worked hard towards that. He used to say people cannot govern themselves if they are not educated,” Roberta recalled.

The ceremony took place in the library annex of Terrell Elementary. Audience members filled the room, leaving not one chair vacant.

“It is such an honor and well deserved,” Roberta exclaimed, “He never wanted the limelight, but I know he would be happy.”

Sonya Cole-Hamilton, chief communica-

Jillian Hahn, pictured with Rob Mitchell, LCDR NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, aims to continue her pursuit of knowledge in the meteorology field.

Nawal Shabib will pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Houston.

Andrew Dittmar has a passion for engineering, particularly civil engineering.

Roberta Terrell, widow of Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr., said she appreciates Lamar Consolidated ISD naming an elementary school after her late husband, Bernard.

Sonya Cole-Hamilton, right, introduced Tyanne Terrell at the Bernard Clifton Terrell Jr. dedication ceremony. Tyanne expressed her gratitude to the attendees of the ceremony.

Bernard “Cliff” Terrell

tions officer of Lamar CISD, opened the ceremony and Mandi Bronsell, president of the Lamar CISD Board of Trustees, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

“I had the personal honor of meeting Cliff when I was just 25 years old and just beginning my career,” Bronsell said, “He taught me how important it is to give back to your community.”

Lamar Consolidated High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) presented the colors, and Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens followed with a speech.

“I would like to acknowledge Mr. Terrell’s family and friends,” Dr. Nivens announced. “Cliff had a lot of influence and it’s great when your friends come to celebrate you. It shows the legacy that he leaves behind.”

The ceremony included speeches from friends and colleagues of Cliff — Jeff Council, Betty McCrohan, and Huey McCoulskie. Each speech included a heartfelt memory of Bernard.

“He never wanted to take credit for all the accomplishments made. Cliff always stood in the background, but he was the driving force that got everything done,” Council stated.

At the close of the ceremony, Roberta was holding back tears as she shared her gratitude for the attendees and Lamar CISD.

“Cliff was the glue for so many projects throughout the county,” Roberta explained, “He now has his name on a school and for that, I want to thank every one of you. In my mind, I picture a great big smile on Cliff’s face.”

Following her mother’s speech, Tyanne said her father would have been proud of the campus.

“Thanks to everyone who came today to open this beautiful new school, which will be a great educational institution,” Tyanne stated.

Terrell Elementary School opened in August. Previously, the school was used as an education building for sixth graders of Roberts Middle School.

“I hope that it will inspire children to higher education,” Roberta said, “It is a gift that not everybody in the world has.”

LCHS grad Tucker picked by Red Sox

Texas A&M shortstop taken in 19th round of Draft, becomes 1st former Mustang selected since 2015

When the Major League Baseball draft concluded in July one more athlete out of Lamar Consolidated ISD heard his name called by a pro club. 2020 Lamar Consolidated graduate Stanley Tucker was selected in the 19th round with the 568th overall pick by the Boston Red Sox, the second player taken out of the district during this year’s draft.

“It’s a proud moment as a coach,” Lamar Consolidated baseball coach Ryan Baudoin said. “I was his assistant coach in 2020 and got the opportunity to watch this young man work every day to prove that he wanted to be the best. Tuck is a great young man with a work ethic like no other.

“As a former Lamar alum myself, it’s also a proud moment for our program and the school.”

The Texas Rangers drafted 2019 Fulshear graduate Julian Brock in the 8th round three days prior.

Tucker, who pitched in high school and can handle duties at shortstop and center field, recently entered the transfer portal after spending his junior season at Texas A&M. In his freshman year at Wharton County Junior College, Tucker was named Region XIV South Most Valuable Player and first team all-region at shortstop.

The first team all-conference selection hit .405 with 14 home runs, 42 runs driven in, 44 runs scored and 10 stolen bases in 44 games.

Tucker spent his sophomore season in 2022 at New Mexico Junior College, the school he signed at out of high school but did not attend as a freshman due to COVID-19 shutting down the Thunderbirds’

season.

In Hobbs, Tucker was a NJCAA first team All-American and WJCAC Conference MVP. The shortstop appeared in 58 games, hitting .407 with 17 home runs and was second in the nation with 90 RBI. Tucker also scored 82 runs and swiped 37 bases, slashing .484/.550/.968 in conference play, leading the league in RBI and hits (61). In 20 games played with the Aggies at A&M this past season, Tucker hit .273 (6-22) with two RBI and eight runs scored.

Tucker stole four bases and converted all 14 of his chances in the field. It is unclear whether or not Tucker will sign a contract with the Red Sox or return to college. Should he sign with the Sox, Baudoin said the organization would be getting a player who is dedicated to his craft.

“They would be getting a young man that doesn’t take anything for granted,” Baudoin said. “Tuck’s determination to be a great player is what drives him. I know Tuck will make the right decision.”

Tucker is the first former Mustang to be picked in the draft since 2011 grad Matt Ditman was taken in the 16th round (489th overall) out of Rice by the Kansas City Royals in 2015.

Two previous Lamar Consolidated alums have made it to the Bigs in Randal Grichuk and Brady Rodgers.

Grichuk is currently playing with the Colorado Rockies, while Rodgers last appeared in 2019 with the Houston Astros. For the athletes currently playing at Lamar Consolidated, seeing alums in the pros gives a glimpse of what is attainable by working at goals.

“It shows them that with hard work, anything can be achieved,” Baudoin said. “We talk all the time about taking pride in your work and believing in yourself. Tuck, once again, has proven that.”

One recent LCISD grad who is bound for the baseball program NMJC said seeing two district alums picked in the Draft gives him plenty to look up to.

“It was such a huge moment for those guys getting drafted and achieving a lifelong dream of theirs,” Fulshear grad and all-state slugger Lane Arroyos said. “Both of those guys are so well deserving of this accomplishment. Now I just look forward to following in their footsteps and hopefully getting to play against them in the big leagues one day.”

Former Lamar Little Leaguer and Cypress Woods star Ethan Farris was taken in the 18th round (530th overall) by the Detroit Tigers.

File photo by Scott Reese Willey | The Boston Red Sox drafted 2020 Lamar Consolidated graduate Stanley Tucker, who recently played at Texas A&M, in the 19th round (568th overall) of the Major League Baseball Draft.

Continued from page 17

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup white sugar

½ (13 ounce) envelope unsweetened soft drink mix, any flavor (such as KOOL-AID®)

DIRECTIONS

1

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C). Mix 3 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, the baking powder, salt, and 1/2 packet of the soft drink mix together in a large bowl.

Deep Fried Jalapeno Slices

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

Deep-Fried Oreos

INGREDIENTS

2 quarts vegetable oil for frying

1 cup milk

2

Whisk the milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract together in a separate large bowl until blended; slowly stir in the flour mixture until entirely incorporated in a batter the consistency of a thick pancake batter.

3Drop the batter by large spoonfuls, about 2 teaspoons in size, into the preheated oil; fry until deep golden brown on all sides, 2 to 3minutes. Remove to drain on a platter lined with paper towels.

4Mix together 1 cup sugar with the remaining 1/2 packet of soft drink mix in a flat-bottomed dish. Roll the drained donuts in the sugar mixture while still hot. Set aside on a fresh set of paper towels to cool slightly; serve warm.

COOK’S NOTE: I also used a Ninja blender device to mix the liquid items and then gradually mixed in the dry mixture and it came together in about 5 minutes from starting to measure.

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 eggs

1 cup beer

½ quart vegetable oil

2 cups sliced jalapeno peppers

DIRECTIONS

1Mix flour, salt, pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, eggs, and beer together in a bowl.

2

In a deep fryer, or large pot heat oil to 365 degrees F (180 degrees C).

3Dip the sliced jalapenos in the batter. Place battered jalapenos in deep fryer. The jalapenos are fully cooked when they float to the surface of the oil. They should be golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!

1 large egg

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 cup pancake mix

1 (18 ounce) package cream-filled chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo®)

DIRECTIONS

1Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2Whisk milk, egg, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the pancake mix until no dry lumps remain.

3Dip cookies into batter, one at a time, and carefully place into hot oil. Fry in batches, 4 or 5 at a time, until cookies are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.

Taylor Abshier to discuss safeguarding waterfowl and wetlands in a free public program

Texas Master Naturalist Coastal Prairie Chapter will present the program, “Safeguarding Waterfowl and Wetlands: Unraveling the Mission of Ducks Unlimited,” from 7-9 p.m. Sept. 7, at the Rosenberg Civic Center. Guests can arrive at 6 p.m. for refreshments and social time.

Coastal Prairie Chapter programs are free and open to the public. The presentation will be led by Taylor Abshier, Regional Biologist on staff at Ducks Unlimited.

He will delve into the fascinating world of protecting waterfowl and wetlands. In his talk, “Safeguarding Waterfowl and Wetlands: Unraveling the Mission of Ducks Unlimited,” Taylor will shed light on the critical efforts undertaken by Ducks Unlimited, a renowned organization committed to preserving and protecting our natural habitats.

Taylor’s passion for wildlife conservation and his in-depth knowledge of wetland ecosystems will offer attendees a unique perspective on the challenges faced by waterfowl and the importance of wetland conservation. Through captivating stories and compelling data, he will reveal the profound impact Ducks Unlimited has had in preserving these vital habitats, ensuring the survival of countless

waterfowl species.

“Prepare to be inspired as Taylor shares the successes, challenges, and ongoing initiatives of Ducks Unlimited, showcasing their tireless dedication to the environment and the creatures that call wetlands home,” the chapter stated. “Whether you’re an avid nature lover, conservationist, or simply curious about the incredible work being done to protect our natural world, this presentation is not to be missed.”.

For more information about the Texas Master Naturalist Coastal Prairie Chapter visit txmn.org. For more information about Ducks Unlimited, visit www.ducks.org.

Need compost? Learn how to make it, yourself

On Sept. 9 from 9 -10:30 a.m. the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners and the Fort Bend County AgriLife Extension will present “Grow Your Own – Composting Class” in person at Bud O’Shieles Community Center in Rosenberg.

“Making your own compost can be a fun and rewarding activity,” organizers said. “There are many advantages to making compost, including a healthier garden and less yard waste going to a landfill.” Attendees will learn how to easily make their own compost using kitchen, yard and garden items. Register online at fortbend.agrilife.

Our sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists in Sugar Land offer:

• The latest imaging and technology

• Advanced nonsurgical treatments

• Minimally invasive procedures

• State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy

Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving.