2014 ISSUE - Sugar Land Newcomer Guide

Sugar Land 2014 OFFICIAL NEWCOMER GUIDE

Sugar Land Performing Arts Center • History • Directories • Parks • Libraries • Churches • Museums

SEE STORY ON PAGE 16

• Schools • Hospitals • Restaurants • Politics • Important Phone Numbers • Much more...

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Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Sugar Land Newcomer Guide 2014 ISSUE

2014 OFFICIAL NEWCOMER GUIDE

CONTENTS 4

12

On the COVER Sugar Land Performing Arts Center

$84 Million Sugar Land Performing Arts Center gets go-ahead - pg16

Published by the Fort Bend Star 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-690-4200 TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7478 PUBLISHER Michael Fredrickson EDITOR Jean Sandlin MARKETING CONSULTANTS Diane Strehl Jerry Poscovsky John Sazma CONTRIBUTORS Elsa Maxey John Whitmore ART DIRECTOR

22

Welcome to Sugar Land.............................................................................. 4

Joey Belleza

The History of Sugar Land........................................................................... 6

Graphic Artist

The Fort Bend Museums reflect our colorful

Carlo Arcillas

history through many events .................................................................. 12 Historic Downtown 1908 courthouse slated for renovation................... 18

ON THE COVER

Fort Bend Colleges & Universities............................................................ 19 Fort Bend ISD Serves Sugar Land students............................................ 20 Fort Bend Libraries .................................................................................. 22

28

Sugar Land Restaurants........................................................................... 28 Sugar Land Parks & Recreation Areas..................................................... 32 History of politics in Fort Bend County.................................................... 35 Sugar Land Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, ER Directory........................ 36 Fort Bend Church Directory...................................................................... 40

Sugar Land Performing Arts Center

Warning to Newcomers............................................................................ 44

40 2

Important Numbers to Keep..................................................................... 45 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce........................................................... 47

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

©2014 Sugar Land Newcomer Guide No material from this publication may be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

3

Welcome to Sugar Land A master planned community developing as an entertainment destination, it has a sustainable, strong local economy expanding as a burgeoning employment, educational and medical center creating new wealth and jobs.

One of the most affluent and fastest growing cities in Texas, Sugar Land, the largest city in Fort Bend County with the most master planned communities, is an inclusive community with diversified recreational, cultural and ongoing civic facility development.

The city, which also operates a top rated regional airport, frequently earns highest rankings on lists of best and safest cities in which to live in the country.

Welcoming neighborhoods in master planned communities, outstanding schools, libraries, civic organizations and other resources enhance residential home values and create a sense of belonging for those living in the sweet city. Sugar Land continues to become a nationally recognized community with its many growing economic, cultural and entertainment opportunities.

State and national accolades for the progressive and vibrant city include consecutive Fittest City in Texas titles (50,000–100,000 population range), a CNN/Money and Money magazine’s third place ranking of Sugar Land on a list of the 100 Best Cities to Live in the U.S., a CQ Press fifth ranking of Sugar Land on its list of safest cities in the nation, and a number twelve ranking on a list of safest city in the United States, making it the safest city in Texas. One of three Houstonarea “Top Suburbs to Live Well,” Sugar Land earned the title from Forbes, which took note of the city’s affluence despite its large population.

Other prestigious awards, the U.S. Conference of Mayor’s Livability Award and the International City Management Association’s Community Sustainability Program Excellence Award, have been presented to the city for creative, innovative multicultural awareness programs. After having been named the nation’s first “Community of Respect,”

the Anti-Defamation League continues to recognize Sugar Land for its continuing commitment at promoting an inclusive and respectful community.

With many educational opportunities coupled with multi-media communications for a greater understanding among citizens, this has led to increased participation in events celebrating and uniting Sugar Land in celebration of local, Texan and American traditions. By embracing a diverse, inclusive community, Sugar Land connects citizens with their government and their community, and residents and visitors alike continue to enjoy the award winning Sugar Land Town Square, which is still thriving after ten years of development.

Sugar Land takes pride in being the home of the Sugar Land Skeeters minor-league baseball team and Constellation Field, the ball park stadium inaugurated in 2012. It is one of the Imperial Redevelopment districts transforming Sugar Land at its original point of origin, where the Sugar Land Imperial Sugar Refinery and Distribution Center once operated and set the stage for what today has become Sugar Land. Although the sugar factory was closed about 10 years ago, the historic landmark associated with the refinery remains focal. A festival of food and fun, launched in Fall 2011, is served up weekly at the Imperial Farmer’s market at this site. Clearing and restoration of structures continues for site redevelopment aimed at a sustainable mixed use environment with retail business, offices, entertainment, civic buildings, residential housing and open spaces.

Inspiring the community’s pride in the city is the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation, which helps collect, preserve, communicate and celebrate the past history of the city. Residents have a standing invitation to visit the Sugar Land history museum and to consider donating artifacts, photographs and even their time to help further add to the rich history of the community.

Welcome to Sugar Land, your city, your home.

Is staying healthy on your mind?

Taking care of your family’s health is what we do best.

At Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, we’re experts at caring for Fort Bend County families.

In fact, our hospital stands as one of Thomson Reuters’ 100 Top Hospitals® in the nation in 2012 for delivering exceptional care. We’re the only only area hospital to achieve this distinction. From birthing services to heart and vascular care, from wound care to sports medicine, we offer a direct connection to the region’s top specialists and comprehensive services. Our skilled team of affiliated physicians, nurses and therapists stands ready to take care of your team.

To learn more, visit memorialhermann.org or call 713.222.CARE. 17500 West Grand Parkway South Sugar Land, TX 77479

Proud To be The official healThcare Provider of The Sugar land SkeeTerS

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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The History of Sugar Land

F

or many years, Sugar Land was known as the “sweetest town in Texas.” It was founded as a sugar plantation in the mid1800s and incorporated in 1959. The towering sugar mill that once was the heartbeat of the little community today is undergoing extensive transformation.

This “rebirth” of the area has great promise of enhancing the burgeoning and thriving city with an area that is expected to turn out to be another destination for the city. Constellation Field, home of the Sugar Land Skeeters, represents the beach head as the ball park district, part of a total of seven districts in this area comprising Imperial Redevelopment.

There is no disputing that Sugar Land became what it is today due to the sugar industry. During the last 150 years, this Imperial Sugar Company site influenced

the life and identify of the residents in the region.

Sugar Land wasn’t officially Sugar Land until some years after land granted to Samuel M. Williams in 1828 was sold to his brother and a plantation was built.

Williams’ brother, Nathaniel, purchased the land in 1838, and with a third brother, Mathew, operated Oakland Plantation growing cotton, corn and sugarcane.

The land in and about the City of Sugar Land was originally owned by the Mexican government and granted to Samuel M. Williams through Stephen F. Austin. There were several conditions that needed to be met in order for Williams to receive the land grant.

Among them was that he learn to speak Spanish, be well educated, and write a fine Spencerian hand.

The Hill - bottom right

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Williams called this area’s land “Oakland Plantation” because there were so many different varieties of oak trees on the land –– Pin Oak, Post Oak, Water Oak, Red Oak and Live Oak, and during this time, land grants were measured from one oak tree to another. Interestingly, sugar became a part of life in the area as a result of a meandering journey by S. M. Swinson, captain of a small freight boat.

He went along the United States coast from New York to Velasco. Along the way, commodities were picked up at various points and dispensed of as the journey proceeded.

One of Swinson’s stops was Cuba, and as it happened, it was during the height of the sugar cane season. A small load of sugar cane stalks was brought on board and later delivered to Samuel M. Williams. The next time Swinson

returned to Oakland Plantation, he saw sugar cane growing “as high as a man on a horse” and he immediately returned to Cuba to purchase more stalks. Soon after, a mill was built to squeeze the juice from the sugar cane stalks.

Up until 2002, the present refinery was located approximately on the spot where the first mill was built. After the death of Samuel Williams, the family attempted to keep the mill alive; however, this was not possible, and the mill was sold to Benjamin Franklin Terry and William Jefferson Kyle in 1853.

Terry and Kyle purchased the plantation. Terry is the man known for organizing Terry’s Texas Rangers during the Civil War and for naming the town.

Kyle was born in Hawkins County, Tennessee in 1803, and Terry in Kentucky in 1821.

In 1849, both Kyle and Terry, who were living in Brazoria at the time, left Texas along with 20 or 30 others to go to the gold fields of California. By the time they reached California, the number travelers increased and there were approximately 60 wagons, two companies of pack mules and two sets of engineers.

Terry and Kyle prospected gold in California, making quite a fortune.

In 1853, they returned to Texas and with a portion of the fortune they purchased the “Oakland Plantation” from the S. M. Williams family. The land, rich in sugar cane, was appropriately renamed “Sugar Land.” The mill was operated using rollers, mule power and the open-kettle process. Molasses was drained off in troughs to 1,000 pound hogsheads for shipment.

The railroad from Stafford to

Richmond was built by Kyle and Terry.

Plans were to run the railroad from Stafford, where the timber met the prairie, directly to Richmond and would have missed Sugar Land; however, Kyle and Terry paid $25 per acre for 2,500 acres of land, paying $7,000 in cash, with the remaining balance due in a series of notes up until1858, at which time the notes were fully paid.

The big bend, currently in the railroad between Stafford and Sugar Land, is due to this land purchase, and Kyle and Terry’s desire to have the railroad run through Sugar Land.

In 1860, the Kyle and Terry properties were valued at $250,000.

Upon the deaths of Terry and Kyle, Colonel E. H. Cunningham bought the SUGAR LAND HISTORY, continued on page 8

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

7

The History of Sugar Land SUGAR LAND HISTORY, continued from page 7

12,500 acre plantation soon after the Civil War and developed the town around his sugar refining plant. The Sugar Land plantation passed through other hands in years that followed, and it was finally purchased from the bankrupt Colonel E. H. Cunningham interests by I. H. Kempner and W. T. Eldridge in 1907, at which time the sugar refining process was expanded to what is now known as Imperial Holly Corporation. In 1907, the town of Sugar Land began growing at a rapid rate, with operating expenses amounting to around $50,000 per year. In the early 1900s the refinery was sold and named Imperial Sugar.

Historical accounts state that around the turn of the century, most of the sugar cane crops were destroyed by a harsh winter. Refineries then imported cane through the Port of Galveston.

Until 1959, when it was incorporated, Sugar Land had been a company town.

Today, Sugar Land has a diversified economic base. The city’s growth parallels the huge growth of Houston and Harris County with a strong commercial base and thriving master planned communities. Sugar Land is located 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston.

A Company Town Once, the heart of the city was at US 90A and Brooks Street. There sat a tiny strip center, directly across from the “sugar factory,” as everyone in town called it. In the center was a barber shop, a mercantile, a grocery store and a drug store with a coffee shop. The majority of the town’s residents worked for the sugar factory and the company owned the strip center and stores, which served all of the needs of the workers and their families.

In fact, locals say, company vouchers were used to buy goods and services at the center.

8

Early aerial photo of Hull Field

Trains have always been the sound of Sugar Land. Rails are on the route of the oldest railroad in Texas. It went right through the middle of town by the sugar refinery and west of town, through the heart of what used to be known as the Imperial State Prison Farm.

Company-owned town no more The noon whistle of the sugar factory sent workers home for a hot lunch to nearby dwellings, also furnished by the company. Housewives of that era, most traditional homemakers, would have lunch ready. Then, the women would tend to household chores waiting for “quitting time,” when supper would be waiting, old-timers reflected. Laundry was hung out to dry, but when a different series of “whistle sounds” came from the factory, the ladies would scurry outdoors to bring in the laundry and round up young children playing outdoors. The whistle sounds meant a prisoner had escaped from the nearby state prison farm and the families would go inside and lock the doors, probably the only time the doors were locked in this simple, safe little company town.

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

In the Fall of 1959, the heretofore company-owned town began the process of incorporation and on December 15, 1959, T. E. Harman was elected the first Mayor of Sugar Land to serve with five Aldermen. The first City Council meeting was held on January 19, 1960.

The City of Sugar Land was incorporated in 1959 as a “General Law” city, and it remained that way until January 17, 1981, at which time a special city election was held for the purpose of establishing a “Home Rule” municipal government. Voters approved the adoption of a home rule charter in accordance with the constitution and statutes of the State of Texas. The type of municipal government provided by this Charter was known as “mayor-council

government,” and all powers of the City were invested in a Council comprised of a mayor and five councilmen.

The 50’s Driving down US 90A or Brooks Street today, the old “company houses,” which still exist and are occupied as residences or businesses, can be seen.

Many have been totally refurbished but still show the simplicity of the original architecture. As a company town from the 1910s until 1959, Sugar Land was virtually self-contained. Imperial Sugar Company not only provided housing for the workers, the company also encouraged construction of schools, built a hospital for the workers wellbeing, and provided for businesses to meet workers’ needs.

Many of the original homes built by the Imperial Sugar Company remain today in “The Hill” area and Mayfield Park of Sugar Land, and have been passed down through generations of family members. During the 1950s, Imperial Sugar wanted to expand the town by building more houses. This is what led to the creation of a new subdivision, Venetian Estates. The subdivision featured waterfront home sites along Oyster Creek and other man-made lakes.

In the early 1960s, a new subdivision introduced contemporary affordable housing in Sugar Land for the first time called Covington Woods. However, the subdivision was practically out in the country with no sign of the dozens of businesses that today line Eldridge Road.

The Flats

Creek, First Colony, a new masterplanned community encompassing 10,000 acres set out to create a new standard of living in Sugar Land.

Development began in 1977 by Sugarland Properties Inc., and would follow for the next 30 years. The master planned community offered homebuyers formal landscaping, neighborhoods segmented by price range, extensive greenbelts, a golf course and country club, lakes and boulevards, neighborhood

amenities and shopping.

Around the same time of First Colony, another master planned community development started in northern portion of Sugar Land called Sugar Mill. Sugar Mill offered traditional, lakefront, and estate lots.

Sugar Land began attracting the attention of major corporations throughout the 1980s, and many chose to make the city their home. Fluor, Schlumberger, and others offered their employees the opportunity to work within minutes of their home. This resulted in a 40/60 ratio of residential to commercial tax base within the city.

Becoming A Home Rule City

Other New Subdivisions The Imperial Cattle Ranch sold about 1,200 acres to a developer to develop what became Sugar Creek in 1968. As a master-planned community, Sugar Creek introduced country club living with two golf courses, a club house, swimming pools, and security.

Encouraged by the success of Sugar

In 1981, a special city election was held for the purpose of establishing a home rule municipal government. Voters approved the adoption of a home rule charter. The type of municipal government provided by this Charter was known as Building entrance to Sugar Creek

SUGAR LAND HISTORY, continued on page 10

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

9

The History of Sugar Land TEN MAYORS IN SUGAR LAND’S HISTORY

James Thompson 2009-Present

David Wallace 2002-2008

Dean Hrbacek 1996-2002

SUGAR LAND HISTORY, continued from page 9

“mayor-council government,” and all powers of the City were invested in a Council composed of a mayor and five councilmen.

A special city election was held August 9, 1986, to submit the proposed changes to the electorate for consideration. By a majority of the voters, amendments to the Charter were approved which provided for a change in the City’s form of government from that of “mayor-council” (strong mayor) to that of a “council-manager” form of government.

Sugar Land annexed the master-planned Sugar Creek community in 1986 with the community being almost built-out. This was the first of several large annexations that will follow. Also, that same year, the city extended its extraterritorial jurisdiction to New Territory, and across the Brazos River to what would later cover the 2,050 acre master planned community of Greatwood.

In 1986, Sugar Land organized the largest celebration in its history— The Texas Sesquicentennial Celebration, celebrating 150 years of Texan independence from Mexican rule.

The 90’s An Amendment on May 5, 1990, changed the composition of the City Council to a Mayor, four council members to be elected by single-member districts and two council members by at-large position.

Throughout much of the 1990s, an abundance of commercial growth, with numerous low-rise office buildings, banks and high-class restaurants popping up, could be seen along both U.S. Highway 59 and 10

Lee Duggan 1986-1996

Walter McMeans 1981-1996

Roy Cordes 1972-1981

Texas Highway 6, two of the six main traffic arteries in the city.

Sugar Land tremendously increased its tax base with the opening of First Colony Mall in 1996. The over one million square foot mall was the first in Fort Bend County and located at the busiest intersection of the city – U.S. Highway 59 and Texas Highway 6.

The mall was named after the 10,000 acre master-planned First Colony community.

On a late November night at 11:59 p.m. in 1997, Sugar Land annexed the remaining Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) of the 10,000 acre First Colony master-planned community, bringing the population to almost 60,000. This was Sugar Land’s largest annexation to date.

Later in 1998, a new 428 acre masterplanned community of Avalon offered lake-side living with estate and lakefront home sites, similar to that of the built-out Sugar Lakes master planned community, which was developed by the same corporation.

Sugar Land boasted the highest growth among Texas’ largest cities per the U.S. Census 2000 with a population of 63,328 and a 2004 estimate at 73,721. In 2003, Sugar Land became a “principle” city as the title of this area’s reference changed to the Houston–Sugar Land–Baytown metropolitan area. Sugar Land replaced Galveston as the second most important city in the metropolitan area, after Houston, as the title used to be Houston–Galveston– Brazoria.

The new millennium also saw the need for higher education facility expansion to be located within the city. In 2002, the University of Houston System at Fort Bend, a multi-institution teaching center for the four universities within the University of

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

C.E. McFadden 1968-1972

Bill Little 1961-1964

T.E. Harman 1959-1961 1964-1968

Houston System, moved to its new 250 acre campus off of University Boulevard and U.S. Highway 59. The City of Sugar Land helped fund the Albert and Mamie George Building and as a result, the multi institution teaching center was renamed to the University of Houston System at Sugar Land.

Sugar Land approved a general land plan for a new master planned community south of Commonwealth and First Colony and east of Avalon, named Riverstone (formerly referred to as Sugar Land Ranch) in 2002.

Riverstone today has 3,700 acres, many of them wooded, with both Sugar Land (about 60 percent of the total land area) and Missouri City addresses featuring a golf course, country club, parklands and open spaces calling for 6,000 homes and 18,000 residents.

In 2003, the Imperial Sugar Company refinery plant and distribution center was taken out of operation, but this impact on the local economy was minimal, if at all.

Sugar Land today has a reputation as an affluent Houston suburb and not that of a blue-collar, agriculture-dependent town it once was a generation ago.

Also in 2003, by bid the Texas Department of Transportation sold 2,018 acres of prison land in the western portion of Sugar Land to Newland Communities, a developer. The developer announced it would be building a master planned community in this prime location with homes by early 2006. In July 2004, Sugar Land annexed all 2,018 acres of this land into the city limits to control the quality of development, extending the city limits westward. This was unusual since Sugar Land only annexed built-out areas in the past, not areas prior to development.

Today Sugar Land Town Square in First Colony is now officially the center of Sugar Land. However, for most of the original inhabitants and the generations of families with ties to the sugar factory, the city’s heartbeat remains in the little area that was once the city.

With the redevelopment of the Imperial Sugar Factory site and its adjacent areas totaling some 700 acres, it looks like this original part of the city will once again be a destination point. The city’s heartbeat will also be felt at its origin of development which is already undergoing improvement and evolution taking it to another point in time. One of the developing districts is where Constellation Field is located and where the first game Sugar Land Skeeters game was played April 2012. A Farmer’s Market was launched in the Fall of 2011

and it remains a mainstay in the city.

In the Imperial ballpark district where the minor league baseball stadium is located, the development of high-end residential units and others in the historic district near the old sugar mill continue to be under development.

As announced, the first residential neighborhoods at Imperial Sugar Land will consist of 116 patio homes, some with waterfront views and there will be single and two-story townhomes facing the tree-lined Imperial Boulevard. Available for purchase by the end of 2013, the luxury patio homes, garden homes, and town homes appealing to young professionals and empty nesters will soon be part of another one of Sugar Land’s new master-planned community in a neighborhood called Quiet Cove, expected to be a short walk to the Historic District, the weekly Farmers Market and Constellation Field.

On the cityscape, construction of the 6,500 seat Sugar Land Performing Arts Center on 38.5 acres of city owned property as a private-public partnership is expected in Summer 2014, and it will take two years to complete. Touted as another amenity and community asset, which will be at the Telfair commercial district southeast of U.S. 59 and University Boulevard, one can expect to see graduations and community theater performances at the venue which will be used to attract acclaimed headliner shows, performances and a variety of events. The development agreement for the design, development and construction of the center is with the same group the city used for Constellation Field. In 2012, that group entered into a multiyear agreement with the Sugar Land Skeeters to be the exclusive presenter of concerts at Constellation Field.

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Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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The Fort Bend Museums reflect our colorful history

M

useums all over the world serve as the safe keepers of history. Fort Bend County is no exception. The Museum of Fort Bend County, the Museum of Natural Science, the George Observatory, the George Ranch Historical Park, the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, the Museum of Southern History, Kendleton Heritage Museum, and the Sugar Land Heritage Museum are located strategically throughout the county for local residents, families, students and tourists to tour and enjoy the local heritage of America.

The Museum of Fort Bend County recently celebrated 175 years of legacy during 2012-13. It has continued to preserve and interpret Fort Bend County and its Texas history with special activities and events held throughout the year. Open year-round, there are seasonal programs, special and annual events and on-going programs enriching the visit. Check their blog, georgeranch.blogspot.com, like them on Facebook – George Ranch Historical Park and see the full calendar of events at georgeranch.org/annua-events/ George Ranch Heritage Trial - This one and a half mile looped trail opened in 2013. It follows the banks of Dry Creek in an area formerly off limits to visitors. With a prairie restoration project in progress and well underway the interpretive mission of the trail is intended to educate visitors to an often ignored concept of this area’s cultural heritage - Mother Nature. Early settlers adapted to a lifestyle using natural resources to survive. The trial helps visitors explore this unique awareness.

There’s spooking-ly fun time at All Hallow’s Eve each October

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

31st, a journey to Christmas pasts at Christmas in the Park, a special Mother’s Day Victorian Lunch for honoring Moms, the Spring Break Stampede for kids lassos them into so much fun and there are more activities on the museum’s EVENT CALENDAR that will help plan your next trip. Here’s a sampling.

Texian Market Days Festival Visit texianmarketdays.com for dates and times, and bring the entire family and all your friends to explore more than 100 years of history. Every October, the Festival’s coordinators and volunteers strive to bring a unique, historically accurate and immersive educational experience that people will remember long after the event. Texian Market Days is a living history festival held for the past 30 years that includes many hands-on activities, Civil War camps, and battle reenactments, historic home tours, foods and crafts and live entertainment. Tickets may be pre purchased. Cost is $10 for adults, $9 for Seniors (62+), $5 for children 5 -15, and free for 4 yeas olds and under.

Texian Golf Classic, a fundraiser for the George Ranch educational programs of the Fort Bend County Museum, is held following each summer. The most recent one at the Sweetwater Country Club in September 2013 was the 14th annual event.

Visit fortbendmuseum.org/annual-events/golf/ for more information or call the George Ranch Historical Park, 281-3430218, and help out a good cause.

through many events Thanksgiving Feasts (George Ranch) – November 23 & 30 Visit georgeranch.org/annual-events/Thanksgiving for more information about a feast held on two separate days observing “Before Thanksgiving was Thanksgiving” Lunch.

Candlelight Tours Begin the Christmas season at the John M. Moore home late November/early December. Complimentary cookies and wassail are served while guests await Santa’s appearance. Admission is by ticket only and may be purchased in advance. The Candlelight Tour also offers its ever popular “Candlelight Corner” where you can buy handmade gifts. You won’t want to leave without wassail and cookies on the side porch of the home. Along with the tour of the Moore home your entry fee will allow you to tour the historic Jane Long Cottage and the always informative Fort Bend Museum. For more information visit fortbendmuseum.org/ annual events/candlelight.tour/

Christmas in the Park (George Ranch) www.georgeranch.org/annual-events/Christmas/ Campfire Christmas – December 13, 14, 20 & 21 Enjoy a progressive holiday celebration with dinner, music, hay ride, and tours of decorated homes.

Complete the evening with dessert by the campfire.

FORT BEND MUSEUMS, continued on page 14

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Web: www.arlenerolsen.com Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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The Fort Bend Museums reflect our colorful history FORT BEND MUSEUMS, continued from page 13

Children’s Campfire Christmas December 19 New Year’s Celebration & Historic Lunch – December 28 Tales of Texas (at George Ranch) There’s a home school day, a public and private school day, and a general public day on a Saturday. This one of a kind field trip for Grades 2-5 comes complete with curriculum that celebrates our traditional 1830s Easter egg roll, just like the annual one at the White House lawn. Egg hunts are typically scheduled at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., but check the event calendar online for more information.

There’s also a special Easter Brunch at the George Yard - $13.50 for adults (13 and older), $10 for children ages 5-12, and $4 for children 4 years old and younger. Call (281) 343-0218 to make a reservation.

Lone Star Stomp XXIV – the museum’s major fundraising event It’s a lively, western-themed party that will let your inner star shine!

Get gussied up (don’t forget the bling!) and join us for a great evening of dining, dancing and socializing in the transformed George Ranch Covered Arena. Come shine like the star that you are! The Lone Star Stomp is the Fort Bend County Museum Association’s major fundraising event, and all proceeds benefit educational programs and preservation efforts. Sponsorships are available at $5,000, $3,000, and $1,500. Reserved tables begin at $520 for a table of eight. Individual tickets are $65 per person. It’s an evening you won’t soon forget!

Please support the Stomp any way you can.

Mother’s Day Victorian Lunch in May A scrumptious lunch with a variety of tea sandwiches and deserts… it’s what any mother would love. Interpreters at the Davis Mansion will teach 1890s Victorian tea etiquette. Weather permitting, lunch is served on the beautiful Davis lawn at 12:30 p.m. under the old oak trees. Meal tickets are $13.50 for adults (13 and older), $10 for children ages 5 to 12, and $4 for children age 4 and under. For more information and to make your reservation for the lunch, call 281-3430218.

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Museum The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Museum began as a coalition of citizens working to preserve the historical artifacts, documents, and photographs that traced the evolution of their community from its early days as a sugarcane plantation into its modern era as one of the fastest growing cities in Texas. Today, they’re working with Sugar Land companies and residents to assemble, document, and exhibit a collection of Sugar Land’s remarkable history for generations to come. For starters, go on an historic walking tour of Old Sugar Land. Tours are the 2nd Saturday of each month starting at the museum, 198 Kempner Street, 10:00 a.m. and the walk lasts about an hour and a half 14

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

covering about 1.5 miles. Reservations are appreciated but not required. Tickets - $10 for adults, $5 for children 12-18, and free for children under 12 years. For a reservation, to schedule a private tour or more information, slheritage@slheritage.org or 281-494-0261.

Sugar Land Museum of Natural Science - home to frogs, minerals, planetarium and Tyrannosaurus Rex Located at University and New Territory Boulevards, there are a million experiences to be had here. Explore a face-to-face encounter with a T. rex, have an outer space adventure in the Hall of Space Science and more. For the party hardy, there is a party program that can be arranged that includes selecting a theme for activities and entertainment. Admission tickets Members FREE | Adults $12 | Children (3 - 11), Seniors (62+) and College Students $9 | Groups (20+) $5 | School Groups $2.50.

Visit hmns.org for operating hours and more information.

Runaway Scrape Relive the 1830s at the Jones Stock Farm for an exciting re-creation of the Runaway Scrape, the fleeing of the Texians from Santa Anna’s army marching east towards San Jacinto. See the Texians in action as they battle for independence after the fall of the Alamo. Try your hand at muster and musket handling while running from cannon fire and advancing “soldados.” Watch these historical events unfold leading up to the Battle of San Jacinto on the Texas Independence Trail. This event is held in April. Call 281-343-0218 Fourth of July Spend a historical Independence Day at the George Ranch Historical Park. In addition to enjoying our regular programming, enlist to become a member of the vintage base ball team! Guests are encouraged to come out and learn to play base ball by the 1860s rules. For more information, call (281) 343-0218 or e-mail info@georgeranch.org for details.

Rosenberg Railroad Museum Named after Galveston banker and railroad entrepreneur Henry Rosenberg, this museum offers a look at the historical significance of railroads in Fort Bend County. Located in historic downtown Rosenberg, west of Sugar Land on US 59 and known as the “hub” of the Gulf Coast because of the three major highways and railroads which cross it, the museum is on the corner of Avenue F and Third Street. Public tours, school tours, private birthday parties, camps and educational programs, and senior festivities offered. Call 281-633-2846 or visit rosenbergrrmuseum.org. Closed Mondays.

Kendleton Heritage Museum The museum is located at 630 Charlie Roberts Lane in Kendleton, south on US 59, open from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.on Wednesday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

through many events Review a collection of history that you will never forget as it identifies the contributions made by African Americans. Photos, maps, and artifacts identify numerous historic moments.

Admission is free. If you have photos or items you would like to donate, call the museum, 979-531-8691, or city hall, 979-5328240.

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center The restoration of a 10,000 square-foot Fort Bend landmark building to house the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center at the Imperial Sugar Mill site is taking place for the Children’s Museum of Houston’s satellite location in Sugar Land. Towards this end, there are naming opportunities for corporations, foundations, and individuals in appreciation of the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center’s most generous supporters. The Discovery Center will be a place for families to discover the joy of learning together and as a nationwide model for education, the impact of the Children’s Museum of Houston molding young learners will be a tremendous asset to the rapidly growing community of Sugar Land. For more information, contact Capital Campaign Manager Tracy Golden by phone at 281-4940297 or emailtgolden@cmhouston.org.

Rio Brazos Hunting Preserve

The Andreason Law Firm Now you don’t have to drive to Houston for experienced Estate Planning.

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4840 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite B (at rear), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-1561 • www.andreasonlawfirm.com

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Call: 713-854-0923 - Direct

Historic Richmond offers much more than you imagine!

Breaking Clays at Rio Brazosmakesmy day!

Unique Shops & Restuarants line the streets

www.Rio-Brazos.com Look for the Sporting Clays tab on the website.

Antique Shops filled with “One of a Kind” treasures

Shop and Dine, or simply have drinks with a friend.

4430 Guyler Rd Simonton, TX 77476

Contact: Connie Parker

Ph: 713-854-5876

LEAVINGS CONCRETE CO. LIFETIME WARRANTY LATTICE PATIO COVERS

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Antebellum Homes and Historic Landmarks, where much of Texas history began!

Wonder-filled events including Miracle on Morton Street that kicks off the Holiday Season Visit Historic Richmond for a leisurely walk down Morton Street or through the park Only seven miles west of Sugar Land off Hwy 90 (For GPS directions use 300 Morton St. Richmond, Texas)

Come see what you have been missing!

www.historicrichmond.org Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Sugar Land Performing Arts Center $84 Million Sugar Land Performing Arts Center gets go-ahead

I

n about two years, a 6,500seat performing arts venue in Sugar Land will be the talk of the region as community activities like graduations, theater performances, and nationally acclaimed shows will be among the features. Another amenity and asset for the Sugar Land community, the new Sugar Land Performing Arts Center will sit on 38.5 acres of city-owned property in the Telfair commercial district, southeast of U.S. 59 and University Boulevard.

Construction is expected to begin the Summer of 2014 and it will take about two years to complete the massive undertaking.

This effort comes with a preliminary construction budget of about $84 million. The project was backed by the approval of an agreement by the Sugar Land City Council this past summer allowing ACE SL to design, develop and construct the center. The Sugar Land Development Corporation followed with the approval of a project architect, Martinez & Johnson

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Architects, a firm specializing in performing arts venues with offices in New York and Washington, D.C. The architects then released renderings of the new iconic venue and set in motion the excitement for what will be the final design of a new Sugar Land Performing Arts Center.

Sugar Land’s economic development strategy for the venue is aimed at establishing the city as a destination location for culture and entertainment, a long held vision of citizens and the city council, along with the creation of a commercially self-sustainable amenity.

Mayor James Thompson said that a 2007 Citizen Visioning Task Force included the performing arts center among its cultural and entertainment venue recommendations. “We selected a partner in ACE (a public-private partnership) who will bring the level of live entertainment expertise and high standards of facility management that align with the City’s goals for a first class venue and entertainment experience,” he said.

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

The Houston market, according to the city based on a reported market analysis and feasibility study, does not have a 6,500-seat live entertainment venue. It was concluded that market demand would support the first financially feasible and commercially sustainable venue of its size in the region and studies also supported that the performing arts venue would promote capital investment, create new jobs and unique destination activities attracting local and regional visitors to Sugar Land.

Funding for the Performing Arts Center will include a $10 million equity contribution to the project by ACE, the City’s partner; dedicating a portion of sales tax revenues that may only be used for economic development purposes and a portion of hotel occupancy tax funds that are restricted to tourism initiatives; and rent revenues generated by the facility. No general fund tax dollars are expected to be spent on the project, which design may well end up creating an iconic venue for this region.

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Historic Downtown Historic Downtown 1908 courthouse slated for renovation

T

he 1908 Fort Bend County courthouse, commonly called the Old Courthouse, proudly sits on the 400 block of Jackson Street in Richmond, the county seat, nearing full functional status in 2014 as a result of extensive renovation. The first floor of the restored courthouse will house two public meeting rooms, a reception area and offices for the county judge.

The second floor will be home to the Commissioners Court, complete with gallery rails salvaged from the1930s courtrooms. The county attorney’s offices, library, file rooms and conference rooms will all be located on the third floor.

With construction of the Fort Bend Justice Center which opened in July 2011, offices and courts scattered in five buildings were consolidated to one location with all judicial operations of the county being moved to the center. The Old Courthouse, which previously underwent additions in 1935 and 1957, was then earmarked for restoration back to its original footprint and early grandeur. County officials sought grant monies to refurbish the County’s Grand Dame.

The original cost to build the courthouse in 1908 was $75,000 for construction with another $6,750 for the land purchase. Today, the cost to refurbish the building to its original stateliness is expected to cost upwards of five million dollars.

The county first started the renovation effort with a $271,000 grant from the Texas Historical Commission for design work with the county contributing $104,000. The county then applied for a subsequent phase grant, also to the Texas Historical Commission and 18

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

surprisingly, the project did not make it past the final round.

Moving forward with the effort despite the setback, the county budgeted $2.3 million toward the project and the George Foundation stepped up and provided a $2 million grant with additional contributions which made its donation $3 million. The Albert and Mamie George Foundation established in 1945 strives to make certain that the Fort Bend area thrives. It previously helped out with a 1980 courthouse renovation and did the same this go round.

With funding in place, it was back to work on the courthouse. Wall add-ons not part of the original structure were demolished and wings added in 1957 were knocked down. With the help of a restoration and construction company that had completed 28 courthouses in Texas, the county felt comfortable working with someone with experience.

Crews have been involved in upgrading the environmental system, increasing insulation and fixing the roof. New plumbing, electrical and air-conditioning systems will have been installed as will a modern elevator. The public spaces including the courtroom, the exterior and rotunda will return to their original state. Reportedly, terrazzo flooring was discovered beneath carpeting and vault doors predating the building were also found and are believed to have been taken from a the previous courthouse as this Old Courthouse was the fifth one the county had. Look for a preserved district courtroom with refinished natural pine wood flooring. New glass panes will be placed on the top of the dome casting diffused, backlit illumination. The exterior of the building have minimal landscaping as was the case back in the early 1900s.

Fort Bend Colleges & Universities

University of Houston System at Sugar Land (UHSSL) http://www.sugarland.uh.edu

C

omplete your bachelor’s, earn your master’s or obtain a certification locally. The University of Houston System at Sugar Land (UHSSL) located just northeast of the Brazos River offers the combined UH System resources—University of Houston, UH-Clear Lake, and UHVictoria and through these programs, the institutions offer junior, senior, and graduate courses for more than 20 bachelor’s and master’s degrees in applied arts and sciences, biology, business administration,

computer science, criminal justice, and education.

The UHSSL is part of the four UH universities in the system that includes a public broadcast educational television station and the largest university distance learning program in Texas. Each degree at UHSSL is sponsored by one of three universities. The UHSSL also partners with Houston Community College, Wharton County Junior College, and other area community colleges. For more information, 281-275-3300.

Houston Community College http://www.hccs.cc.tx.us

Wharton County Junior College http://www.wcjc.edu

ouston Community College (HCC) System has many college campuses and is the fourth-largest community college system in the United States, HCC-Southwest has college campuses in Stafford on Cash Road and in Missouri City at Sienna Plantation. It offer academic courses for associate’s degrees, terminal degrees, certification and for transfers to four-year institutions in core curriculum in more than 70 fields of work, also in continuing education, for non-degree options and corporate training.

For more information about programs or registration, visit HCC’s website or call 713-718-2000 (Local) or (877)422-6111 (Outside Houston Area).

harton County Junior College (WCJC) has four campuses in Wharton, Sugar Land, Richmond and Bay City, and at other off-site locations.

Students will be able to access learning 24/7 in a virtual campus to complete certificate and degree programs online.

WCCJ offers an associate in arts degree for transfers to a four-year institution, associate of arts in teaching degree, associate in applied science degrees, and certificate programs. Web-based and interactive television distance education courses are also available.

For more information about programs or registration, call 800.561.9252 or 979.532.4560 for the Wharton campus, 281.243.8447 for the Sugar Land campus, or 281.239.1500 for the WCJC Fort Bend Technical Center. The college also offers classes at the Bay City campus.

H

W

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Fort Bend ISD Serves Sugar Land students

W

hen you establish residence in Sugar Land and your children will be going to public school, you’ll be served by the Fort Bend Independent School District.

Important information on the school district’s website can assist parents and students prepare for the start of each new school year.

If you are new to Fort Bend ISD or if you have moved and your child is zoned to a new school, you will register your child at the school in which you are zoned.

• There are attendance zones. Since FBISD is located in one of the fastest growing districts in the nation (families from around the world move here daily), there may be changes. By visiting the school district’s website, fortbendisd.com, you will be able to determine the schools to be attended as you enter your address to determine the applicable school zones. Updates will be regularly posted on the school district’s website and shared in the district’s communications to parents.

• The FBISD Administration Building is at 16431 Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land, and school officials may be contacted by calling 281-634-1000.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

• Parental involvement in all of these schools is appreciated by the district. There’s a Community Conference for Volunteers each October; a VIPs Salute for major contributors, and a Community Partnerships Appreciation Luncheon each April.

Some examples of parent group successes in Sugar Land: • Fort Settlement Middle School’s Cultural Arts Committee, comprised of 10 parents each year since the school opened in 2001, has created projects to help students appreciate the differences in culture, color, race, religion and physical appearance. It has sent a message of coexistence and tolerance.

• Dulles High School VIKE (Vikings Invested in Kids’ Education) has been led by parents, in partnership with the school administration, to provide supervised activities, offer parent education opportunities and eliminate destructive behaviors by students.

• Partnerships abound, with businesses, services clubs and church organizations being heavily involved in Sugar Land schools in all areas, particularly in social, academic and athletic activities.

FBISD 2014-15 School Year Calendar August 14, 15......................District Professional Development 18-21....Campus Professional Development/District Focus 22.................................................. . .Teacher Work Day 25...................................................First Day of Classes September 1.......................................................Holiday/Labor Day 26...........................Holiday/Fort Bend County Fair Day October 2.............................Elem Parent Conf. & Early Release 17...........................................End of Nine Week Period November 24 - 28............................. Holiday/Thanksgiving Break December 16 - 19................................................................Exams 18, 19.................Early Release - MS/HS students only 19................................................End of First Semester 22 - 31.........................................Holiday/Winter Break January 1 - 2.............................................Holiday/Winter Break 5.............Campus Staff Development/Student Holiday 6............... District Staff Development/Student Holiday

• Workshops and Camps

7.............................First Day of Classes 2nd Semester 19........................................Holiday/Martin L. King Day February 11...........................Elem Parent Conf. & Early Release March 9 - 13 ..........................................Holiday/Spring Break 20...........................................End of Nine Week Period April 3.................................................... Holiday/Good Friday May 25...............................................Holiday/Memorial Day June 1-4.......................................................................Exams 3........................ Early Release - MS/HS Students only 4.........................................................Last Student Day Early Release - All Students 5....................................................... Teacher Work Day 5, 6............................................................. . Graduation (Pending Toyota Center availability based on NBA Playoff Schedule)

July 3.........................................................................Holiday

Got Creativity?

Sugar Land Art Center & Gallery offers a variety of specialty workshops and camps for adults and children, as well as children of all ages. These workshops and camps cover everything from photography, sculpture, watercolor, mixed media, and even marketing tools for artists. For a current listing of workshops, visit our website and check out the Calendar page – www.sugarlandartcenter.org

• Classes and Lessons

We currently have over 20 artists teaching regular classes and private lessons. Whether you are just getting started and want to learn the basics, or have been painting for years and are looking for a fun, creative environment to work and collaborate in, we have a class for you. Weekends and after-school classes are available, as well as several weekday options. Please visit the “current teachers and class schedules” section of our website for more information.

• Artists’ Studios

Sugar Land Art Center currently has 17 studio spaces, which are rented to local artists. These studios provide our artists not only with ample space to create, but also a community of other artists, which can lead to impromptu critiques, collaborations, and dialogue. To check for availability, call 281-565-0957 or stop by anytime!

• Gallery

We are proud to display the work of over 30 local artists in our gallery. All of these artists are members of the Sugar Land Artists Guild, and they display a wide range of medium, including watercolor, acrylic, oil painting, graphite, sculpture and ceramics, glass art, art dolls, and more. New art is hung every two months, so there will always be something new to fall in love with. Stop by or contact us by phone if you’re interested in making a purchase.

104 Industrial Blvd. Ste. Q Sugar Land, TX 77478

281-565-0957

www.sugarlandartcenter.org Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Fort Bend Libraries

George Memorial Library Fort Bend County Law Library Sugar Land Branch Library

G

eorge Memorial Library, the main library in the system, has the largest collection of materials in the Fort Bend County Libraries system-approximately 700,000. It has a particular focus on large-print books, parenting, Spanish-language books, teen materials, literacy materials, and text books from LCISD and FBISD. The library also houses the Genealogy and Local History Department on the second floor of the building; the department’s resources focus on the southeastern United States and includes materials relating to the history of the South, federal censuses, genealogy, and the Civil War. The Joe Grillo Science Center is located in the Children’s Department on the first floor.

WiFi Access George Memorial Library provides free WiFi access to the public throughout the building. Contact the Adult Reference Department at George Memorial for more information and connection instructions to use your personal laptop at the library.

Computer Lab George Memorial Library houses a new computer lab with 18 computers and an instructor’s computer, as well as a large screen to show computer/Internet screens, video tapes and satellite downlinks.

When the lab is not being used for training purposes, it is open to the public. Patrons may reserve some of the computers at this branch.

This facility is scheduled for renovation providing more space as the administrative offices will be moved to a new building. The new building will be an adjacent parcel of land recently acquired from the Fort Bend Country Club.

History of George Memorial Library George Memorial Library is the central library of the Fort Bend County Libraries system, and houses the administrative offices for the entire system. This building opened in 1986, when the main library moved from its original location in Rosenberg, Texas, by Polly Ryon hospital.

Then County Judge Jodie E. Stavinoha, who worked closely with The George Foundation, was very instrumental in bringing the new building to fruition. Because the county had, at that time, no cultural arts center, the planners wanted the library building to include a gallery on the bottom level for exhibitions and an amphitheater for performing arts events, to provide the community with free, cultural arts programming opportunities. The plaza adjacent to the amphitheater has a fountain as a focal piece; in 1991, a water sculpture designed and created by local kinetic artist Jaroslav Belik was donated by former library director Lillian Stavinoha Humpola in memory of her late husband, Cyril Humpola.

The amphitheater was named the Jodie E. Stavinoha Amphitheater for the judge in 1997, and the gallery was named the Bohachevsky Gallery, in honor of long-time county librarian Roman Bohachevsky, when he retired in 2000.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

The George Memorial Library in Richmond is the main library in the county. Branch libraries in Sugar Land are also available and offer a wide variety of services, free classes and wonderful displays.

Albert George Branch Library 9230 Gene Street Needville, Texas 77461 281-238-2850 979-793-4270 281-342-5992 FAX 979-793-3672 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Tues10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Wed, Thurs 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library 8100 FM 359 South P. O. Box 907 Fulshear, Texas 77441-0907 281-633-4675 281-346-1432 281-346-1265 FAX 281-346-1281 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm -8:00 pm, Tue, Wed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Thurs 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

Cinco Ranch Branch Library 2620 Commercial Center Blvd.

Katy, Texas 77494-6407 281-395-1311 281-395-6377 FAX 281-693-7845 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Tues Thurs 10:00 am - 9:00 pm, Wed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

Mamie George Branch Library

Cinco Ranch Branch Library

Bob Lutts Fulshear/

First Colony Branch Library

Missouri City Branch Library

Simonton Branch Library

Albert George Branch Library

Sienna Branch Library

University Branch Library

Fort Bend County Libraries helps students excel with Online Homework Help Fort Bend County Libraries’ HelpNow (Homework Tutoring) program enables the library system to provide online homework assistance in a broad range of subjects in English and Spanish for students in grades 3 through 12, free of charge.

This tutoring program is an Internet-based service that provides library patrons with live, on-demand homework help, seven days a week, from 3:00 to 11:00 pm. Certified tutors are experienced in Math, Science, Social Studies, and English/Language Arts. If live, real-time assistance is not needed, students may also submit questions any time of the day or night, and emailed responses will arrive within 24 hours.

Math tutors assist with basic skills, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus, while Science tutors are versed in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth-science subjects. Social Studies tutors cover American history, world history, and political science. English/ Language arts instructors provide help with writing, reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary skills, as well as help in English literature. Tutors are also able to assist with Advanced Placement (AP) subjects and introductory college courses.

The program includes a 24-hour writing lab, which allows students to submit papers to trained writing instructors online at any time; students receive feedback within 24 hours. Writing experts evaluate the submitted paper and provide constructive comments with the aim of helping students become better writers.

Besides homework help, the homework tutoring program offers a Skills Building section in which students may receive additional exercises to help them master the concepts being taught in their homework lessons.

Students may access this resource from any computer – whether at home, school, or at the library – by going to the library’s website, www.fortbend.lib.tx.us. Click on the “Homework Tutoring” link on the main webpage or the “Live Homework Tutoring” link in the Youth Pages section, and then enter the Homework Help area or the Skills Building area. There is no time limit to the sessions.

The first time patrons utilize the service from home, they may receive a prompt requesting that they install software from a website.

Patrons may also be asked to complete an optional registration form.

FORT BEND LIBRARIES, continued on page 24

2013 TAPPS 4A Baseball and Softball State Championship Teams

Grades PK-12 | Limited Openings Available for 2013-2014 - Apply Now! 281-263-9142 • www.fortbendchristian.org • 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Fort Bend Christian exists to glorify God through excellence in college preparatory Christian education.

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

23

Fort Bend Libraries FORT BEND LIBRARIES, continued from page 23

Completing this registration allows the user to submit papers for feedback, to receive emailed responses, or to review old sessions.

While an email address is needed if the user wishes to submit questions or receive feedback, it is not necessary to have an email address to take advantage of the live homework help during the scheduled hours that the service is available.

Library Cards now available online Fort Bend County citizens may now sign up online for a free Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) library card and begin accessing many of the libraries’ resources immediately. Applicants are assigned a temporary library card number, which is good for 30 days.

With this temporary card number, the user is able to place holds or reserve up to three books, DVDs or CDs from the library catalog.

The temporary card number will also enable the user to access some of the library’s online databases.

To get a free, permanent library card, applicants should bring a government-issued picture ID and proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill) to any FBCL branch within 30 days after applying for

First Colony Branch Library 2121 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-238-2800 281-265-4440 FAX 281-565-0798 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Tues-Thurs 10:00 am - 9:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

George Memorial Library (MAIN) 1001 Golfview Drive Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-4455 281-341-2688 FAX: Administration 281-341-2689 FAX: Adult Services 281-341-2669 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am - 9:00 pm, Fri, Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Law Library of Fort Bend County 401 Jackson, Rm 302 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-341-3718 281-342-0734 FAX

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sat, Sun CLOSED

yogamixstudio yogamixstudio Yoga • Tai Chi • Zumba All levels welcomed First Class FREE Call or E-mail for schedule and rates Deborah Douglas Owner 10 years Quail Valley Resident

yogamixstudio@gmail.com or visit www.YogaMixStudio.com 2519 Cartwright Road • Missouri City 77459 24

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

the temporary card number. For applicants under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must be present with a government-issued picture ID and proof of residency to receive the minor’s permanent card.

To apply online, simply go to the libraries’ website—www. fortbend.lib.tx.us—and click on the “Online Library Card Application” link on the left-hand side of the page. You will be asked to enter your name, mailing address, and email address, and to select a password.

“We are very pleased to be able to make our library card application available online,” says library director Clara Russell. “The process is very easy, and we look forward to welcoming many new library users.”

To learn about the many things that a library card can do, visit the library’s FAQ webpage at http://www.fortbend.lib.tx.us/aboutus/ librarycard.html.

For more information, call the libraries’ Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

WWW.RCHOBBYSHOP.COM Library now offers downloadable Audiobooks for Macs & Ipods Fort Bend County Libraries announces the addition of downloadable audio books for Apple® Macintosh computers to its online digital library collection. Mac users can now download the library’s audiobooks in the MP3 format, and transfer titles to Apple® devices, including iPod® Classic, iPod Touch, iPod Nano, iPhone™, iPod Shuffle, and virtually any MP3 player for listening on-the-go. Previously, only PC users could download the audio books because the format was not compatible with iPod® devices.

Now Mac users can enjoy the same benefits of the downloadable audio book collection that the PC-users have come to love.

Not all downloadable audio book titles are available in both formats, however. To learn if the book selection is compatible with a particular electronic device, patrons should refer to the “Plays on” graphic that is displayed with each title, which alerts the patron of the various format(s) in which the audiobook is available.

Other new features of the downloadable audiobook collection include a “Wish List” for books to be checked out at a later date, the ability to search for titles by the awards they have won, and full-text searching, which allows the patron to search the entire catalog record of the book for specific keywords. Another new feature provides the patron with suggestions of other titles the reader may like, based on their current book selection.

Library patrons can browse the virtual library shelves by clicking on the OverDrive link on the library’s webpage www.fortbend.lib.tx. us. The first time patrons download a book, they will be asked to install the free Overdrive Media Console software from the library website; subsequent downloads do not require software installation.

Patrons may browse through the collection and make their selections, enter their library card number and check out the titles that they want. For those new to digital downloading, thorough instructions are included on the site.

Patrons may check out up to five downloadable books at any given time, and may place holds on up to five titles. When a reserved title becomes available, the patron will be sent an email notification, and will have three days to download the selection. The system also eliminates late fees through an automatic return feature. At the end of the 2-week lending period, the files automatically expire and are immediately available for the next patron.

For more information, call the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

New job resource computers available at Missouri City Branch Library The official opening of the ICAN Center at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library was recently celebrated. The library is located at 1530 Texas Parkway.

FORT BEND LIBRARIES, continued on page 26

281.969.7751 Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Lyrical • Contemporary • Tumbling Hip Hop • Musical Theatre • Teen Classes • Dance Team Technique

Ann Moody Sill Dance Studio

“We’re in your neighborhood” Come Dance With Us!

Present this ad and receive 50% OFF registration fee. ($20 value)

11110 SOUTH HIGHWAY 6 (in front of Kids R Kids) • 281-498-8270 • www.amsds.com

SERVING SUGAR LAND & ALL SURROUNDING AREAS

Ages 6 months , to 4 years 5 year old Bridge Program

Established in 1969

Located at Sugar Land First United Methodist Church

431 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land, TX 77478 School Hours: 8:30am - 2:00pm Accredited

by National Accreditation Commission

Member of Collaborative for Children

281-242-KIDS

www.schoolforlittlechildren.com

(5437)

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

25

Fort Bend Libraries FORT BEND LIBRARIES, continued from page 25

The ICAN (Information, Careers and Networking) Center provides eight additional computers, printers, and traditional print resources that are specifically intended to assist job hunters or anyone considering a career change. Individuals such as high school students, college graduates, senior adults, or people with limited Englishspeaking abilities will find resources that will assist them in career planning, job-skills exam preparation, college selection and financial aid, and current career information.

For more information, call the branch library at 281-499-4100 or the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

University Branch Library The University Branch Library is located at 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land on the campus of the University of Houston System at Sugar Land. The library is a county partnership with the University of Houston System at Sugar Land, and will be the second joint-use facility in the Fort Bend County library system.

The 2-story building is approximately 40,193 square feet in size.

The library is part of a $130-million bond referendum approved by

voters in May 2006, which included $24.5 million for three county library projects: the Sienna Branch Library in partnership with Houston Community College; the University Branch Library in partnership with the University of Houston campus in Sugar Land and Wharton County Junior College; and renovations at George Memorial Library in Richmond.

Sienna Branch Library Located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. in Missouri City, the Sienna Branch Library is a joint project between Fort Bend County and Houston Community College.

The library sits on a 4.5-acre site adjacent to the new Houston Community College campus which opened last year. The library, is a two-story building, with 44,989 square feet, making it the second largest library in the system.

The library was designed to be family-friendly, with individual areas for children, teens, and adults.

The library includes community meeting rooms, study rooms, a puppet theater, and a computer lab for technology classes and general public use. An additional 36 computers will be available for public use outside of the computer lab. The library has free WiFi access for individuals wishing to bring their own laptop computers to the library.

The Sienna Branch Library is the first library in the system to utilize Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in its check-out system. This new feature is built in to the outside and inside book drops, and enables items to be automatically checked in as they are returned in the book drop.

The hours of operation for the library will be as follows: MondayThursday, 7:30 am - 9:00 pm; Friday, 7:30 am - 5:00 pm; and Saturday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. The library will be closed on Sundays.

Youth Programs Available at Library

281.243.2300

www.KenWoodPC.com One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Suite 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 26

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

The Fort Bend library system has several youth programs available for patons. For the current month schedule, check the monthly calendar at http://www.fortbend.lib.tx.us/youth/programs/programs. html Mother Goose Time Parent/infant activity time for infants Toddler Time Parent/child activity time for toddlers Story Time Stories, movie & crafts for preschool children Kinder Korner Stories, movie, crafts & other activities for kindergartners After-school Break Crafts, movie, stories, & more for school-aged children Pajama Night Story Time Stories & other activities for families

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Missouri City Branch Library 1530 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 281-238-2100 281-261-5829 FAX 281-261-5944 TTY

281.787.8718

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Sugar Land Branch Library

550 Eldridge Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-238-2140 281-277-8945 FAX 281-277-8963 TTY

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Tues, Thurs 10:00 am - 9:00 pm, Wed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

University Branch Library 14010 University Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-633-5100

Hours of Operation: Mon 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Tues, Thurs 10:00 am - 9:00 pm, Wed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Fri 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun CLOSED

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27

Sugar Land Restaurants INDIAN Madras Pavilion 16260 Kensington 281-491-3672 Bombay Palace Indian Grill & Bar 15295 Southwest Fwy 281-325-0071 Udipi Café 3559 Highway 6 S 281-313-2700 ASIAN Azuma on the Lake 15830 SW Frwy., Ste 100 281-313-0518 Benihana Grill 2579 Town Center Blvd N. 281-565-8888

Café East Chinese Buffet 4645 Highway 6 S. 281-491-8181

Jade Garden 4555 Highway 6 S., Ste C 281-265-8868

Café Goo Goo Yen 1730 Williams Trace Blvd, Ste L281-277-8383

Japaneiro’s Sushi Bar & Latin Grill 2168 Texas Dr. 281-242-1121

Chang’s Chinese Restaurant 16100 Kensington Blvd., #200 281-325-0176 www.changs-online.com China King 3338 Highway 6 281-980-8887 Ichiban Sushi & Tapioca 16200 Kensington Dr., Ste 300 281-265-1669 Jade Café 2565 Eldridge Road 281-277-1899

Kublai Khan Mongolian Stir-Fry 15830 Southwest Fwy 281-565-7277 Mori Sushi 4502 Highway 6 281-325-0628 Old Place Café 4555 Highway 6 S., Ste R 281-277-8008 P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 2120 Lone Star Dr. 281-313-8650 Panda Express 1401 Highway 6 S. 281-277-0856 Panda Garden 1043 Eldridge Road 281-242-7728 Panda Garden 3563 Highway 6 S. 281-265-0303 Pearl Dynasty Cuisine 19828 Southwest Fwy 281-238-5800 Pei Wei Asian Diner 16101 Kensington Dr. 281-240-1931

Safari Texas Ranch

Special Events Facility - Galas & Weddings 11627 FM 1464 Richmond TX 77407 Phone 281-277-7888 Fax 281-277-9788 events@safaritexasballroom.com 28

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Pho Mai Vietnamese Noodle House 16200 Kensington Dr., Ste 100 281-491-1528 Pho Saigon Vietnamese Noodle House 4645 Highway 6 S., Ste L 281-491-2988

Sabai Thai Café 2705 Town Center Blvd N. 281-325-1007 Swen Chinese Café 4526 Highway 6 S 281-265-8300 Taisho Japanese Bar & Grill 16100 City Walk 281-313-0158 Thai Cottage II 4723 Sweetwater Blvd 281-313-0707 Tony’s Grill 12240 Murphy Road, Ste F 281-564-4022 MEXICAN Berryhill Tamales 13703 Southwest Fwy 281-313-8226 Café Adobe 2329 Highway 6 S 281-277-1700 Chipotle 2280 Lone Star Dr. 281-980-6622 Escalantes 15933 City Walk Blvd.

281-242-1100 La Fonda Dona Maria 13134 Dairy Ashford Road, Ste 600 281-277-0338 Las Haciendas Restaurant 12821 Southwest Freeway 281-240-3050 Los Gallitos Mexican Café 3385 Highway 6 281-313-1401

PARISIAN BAKERY Los Tios Mexican Restaurant 3308 Highway 6 S 281-980-1313

Olive Garden 5005 Sweetwater Blvd.

281-491-0478

Lupe Tortilla 15801 Southwest Fwy 281-265-7500

Pepperoni’s 5726 New Territory Blvd.

281-277-5555

Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant 3121 Highway 6 S 281-265-6556

Russo’s New York Pizzaria 6560 Greatwood Parkway 281-545-8100 Sicilian’s Pizza & Pasta 13416 Greenway Dr. 281-242-0004

Pappasito’s Cantina 13750 Southwest Fwy 281-565-9797 Ruthie’s Mexican Café 5022 Highway 90A 281-491-7884 Taco Cabana 16770 Southwest Fwy 281-980 9683 El Vaquero 6560 Greatwood Parkway 281-545-1861 ITALIAN Carino’s Italian 5750 Highway 6, Missouri City, TX 77459 281-261-2630 Carraba’s Italian Grill 2335 Highway 6 S. 281-980-4433 Corelli’s Italian Café 3229 Highway 6 S. 281-491-8900 Coal Vines 1550 Lake Pointe Pkwy 281-491-0478 Gepetto’s Pizza 15510 Lexington Blvd 281-980-7400 Mia Bella Trattoria 16535 Southwest Frwy (at First Colony-Sugar Land) 281-240-5000

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Floyd’s Restaurant 16549 Southwest Fwy 281-240-3474 Joe’s Crab Shack 19740 Southwest Fwy 281-344-2100 Red Lobster 2323 Highway 6 S. 281-313-2525 CAJUN Famous Cajun Grill 16535 Southwest Fwy 281-242-1102 Ragin Cajun 16100 Kensington, Ste 400 281-277-0704 www.ragin-cajun.com Roux Pour 2298 Texas Dr. 281-240-7689 SUGAR LAND RESTAURANTS, continued on page 30

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

29

Sugar Land Restaurants CASUAL DINING Baker Street Pub & Grill 15970 City Walk Blvd.

281-494-0774 BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse 2231 Highway 6 S. 281-242-0400 Black Walnut Café 16535 Southwest Fwy 281-565-7800 Buffalo Wild Wings 1401 Highway 6 S. Building B 281-313-9464 Café Express 15930 City Walk 281-980-9222 Cheddar’s Casual Café 803 Bonaventure Way 281-242-1035 Cheesecake Factory, The 16535 Southwest Fwy. 281-313-9500 Chili’s 15355 Southwest Fwy. 281-242-5444 Chili’s 19940 Southwest Fwy. 281-232-3438 Coco’s Café 4565 Highway 6 S. 281-491-7868

Denny’s 1422 Hwy. 6 281-240-0327 Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 15929 City Walk 281-242-7468 Live Oak Grill 12935 Dairy Ashford Road 281-491-5253 Niner’s 5870 New Territory 281-240-0327 Smash Burger 2623 N. Town Center Blvd 281-491-0380 Stadia Grill 2105 Lone Star Dr. 281-265-4889 T.G.I. Fridays 2515 Town Center Blvd N 281-494-8400 Willie’s Grill and Ice House 945 Highway 6 S 281-242-2252 Wing Stop 16525 Lexington Blvd #120 281-565-9464 Wings-N-Things 3375 Highway 6 S 281-242-2999

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30

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

FRENCH La Madeline French Bakery & Café 2675 Town Center Blvd N. 281-494-4400 Aura Brasserie 15977 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 281-403-2872 LATIN Churrasco’s 1520 Lake Pointe Pkwy 832-532-5300 Fernando’s Restaurant 14135 Southwest Fwy 281-494-9087 Tucano’s 16535 Southwest Fwy 281-277-5477

STEAK Longhorn Steak House 16746 Southwest Fwy 281-240-1018 Outback Steakhouse 15253 Southwest Fwy 281-980-4329 Perry’s Steakhouse and Grill 2115 Town Square Place 281-565-2727 Saltgrass Steak House 19720 Southwest Fwy 281-232-3502 Veritas Steak & Seafood 1550 Lake Pointe, Pkwy, Ste 500 281-491-2901 The Burning Pear 16090 City Walk Blvd 281-275-5925

MEDITERRANEAN Red Oak Grill 203 Century Square Blvd.

281-491-2890 Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill 716 Hwy. 6 281-313-3145 SALAD Ruggles Green 15903 City Walk 281-565-1175 Salata 2170 Town Square Place 832-886-4582 Souper Salad 2715 Town Center 281-980-5200 BARBECUE Brookstreet Barbeque 1418 Hwy. 6 281-313-4000

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4500 Highway 6 • Sugar Land, TX 77478

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

31

Sugar Land Parks & Recreation Areas

S

ugar Land residents enjoy neighborhood and community parks on acreages of parkland throughout the city offering greenbelts, picnic areas, volleyball courts, playing fields, golf, tennis and swimming among other recreational sports and activities.

With the many community commons to enjoy and greenbelts to explore, there are also acres and acres of undeveloped parkland. The city’s Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan guides Sugar Land in the development of its park system. Under development is the authorization of a $50 million parks bond for three propositions voted on by residents for parks and trails. These include a 60-acre regional park at Chatham and Easton with trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and a pavilion featuring a tennis center and sports fields for cricket, soccer, lacrosse, rugby and flag football. Also, the Brazos River Park (phase two) along the river would have a festival site next to it with areas for picnicking, large group gatherings like the 4th of July, field games or for passive, non-structured recreation activities. A network of about ten miles of hike and bike trails and bridges would also connect neighborhoods and the community to existing trails.

Imperial Park Recreation Center Opened in 2011, the 17,000 square foot Imperial Park Recreation Center at 234 Matlage Way is next to the T.E. Harman Center, and it features a full gymnasium, an exercise room, two multipurpose rooms, “The Cave” video gaming room, a kitchen and a patio/garden area as a recreation campus for all age groups. Tours are given during normal hours of operation, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Saturday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday: 1 - 5 p.m. For more information, 281-2752885 or visit imperialparkrecreationcenter.org.

T.E. Harman Center This recently renovated recreation center on 226 Matlage Way provides leisure classes such as Tai Chi and Yoga, Basic Cardio and all kinds of dance classes, special activities like Yahtzee, Bunco, Bingo, a variety of card games, field trips and a Walking Club as part of a Senior Citizens program. You’ll find computer and language classes, too, quilting, crafts, art and more. On Halloween, there’s a Monster Mash and a Senior Holiday Gala is celebrated in December. Hours of operation are Mon – Thurs., 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. and Fridays, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For non-residents, there’s a 25% increase on all fees.For more information, inquire by email at seniors@sugarlandtx.gov or call 281- 275-2885.

Events and Activities The Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department is Sugar Land’s headquarters for fun, providing year-round recreational activities, classes, and events for youths and adults. Features such as a pool, dog park, over 30 miles of walking, jogging and mountain bike trails, playgrounds, pavilions, exercise stations, splash pads, basketball, sand volleyball, tennis courts, soccer, baseball and softball fields, there’s something for everyone.

EGGStravaganza Egg Hunt - This event has become one of the most popular for families in the Fort Bend/southwest Houston area.

An estimated 5,000 youth and adults attend each year.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Red, White & Blue Fest - Come join in the fun and celebrate Independence Day. Halloween Town - Is sure to get those goose bumps going with a photo station, extreme face painting, haunted horse and carriage rides, pumpkin patch, and a movie under the stars.

Food Drive - As preparations begin for the holidays, it’s a great time to start packing up food items for donation to the annual Share Your Holiday Food Drive, where generous Sugar Land residents supply items for families in need.

Christmas Tree Lighting Event In The Plaza - This magical event, Thurs., December 5, 2013, includes a variety of holiday activities throughout the illuminated Town Square. Entertainment stages will be set up along City Walk Drive with a variety of performances and a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

Memorial Day Ceremony - The official memorial ceremony includes benedictions from various religious leaders, a 21 gun-salute, the presentation of colors and other tributes.

Park Department offers many other services: Adult Leisure Classes - Learn to dance and stretch; Tai Chi, Karate, Pilates, Duplicate Bridge, Aikido, Yoga, Jazzercize, Line Dance, Zumba, Mom and Baby Strolls, outdoor fitness Training Boot Camps, and/or train your dog to be a good canine citizen. There’s tons more!

Sugar Land Office for Senior Citizens - Senior citizens looking for information on transportation, health and medical issues, recreation, meals, finances and more can now find the answers all in one place.

Youth Programs include Karate, Archery, Tai Kwon Do, Soccer for Tots, opportunities for being casted in theatre performances, Drop In Sports like volleyball, badminton, basketball and table tennis and much more.

Youth Sports Associations - Youth Baseball, Basketball, Football, Softball & Swimming; Youth and Adult Soccer, Tennis. Members of the public may reserve athletic fields in accordance with fees charged for their use. There is a $60 deposit returned after an event, if there is no damage to the field.

Trout Stocking at Eldridge Park - This annual event is supported

by Texas Parks and Wildlife. Two thousand fish are stocked in the lake and this is always a highlight for area fishermen - from the smallest to the most senior.

Winter Wonderland – This event is at Imperial Park Recreation Center scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2013, so save the date.

More info, 281-275-2885.

New Year’s Eve on the Square – On December 31st there’s a fun filled night for children and adults of all ages with walk around entertainment, live music, street performances, state of the art fireworks, and a 3D New Year’s Eve Show. Children’s celebration, 7 – 9 p.m., Adults Celebration, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Residents can Reserve Facilities The philosophy of the City of Sugar Land is to provide facilities for a broad cross- section of uses and towards that end, it has a facility use policy that provides an opportunity for any city resident to rent the facilities, while not allowing any one group to dominate use of the

City Park 225 Seventh Street (77478) Imperial Park 230 Matlage Way (77478) Eldridge Park 2511 Eldridge Road (77478)

First Colony Park 3232 Austin Parkway (77479) Lost Creek Park 3703 Lost Creek Blvd. (77479) BMX Track 3703 Lost Creek Blvd. (77479)

Skate Park 225 Seventh Street (77478) Duhacsek Park 17034 Old Richmond Road (77478) Sugar Land Memorial Park 15300 University Blvd. (77479)

facilities particularly during peak demand.Significant lead-time will increase the chances of facility availability. Updated reservation and facility use policies dated August 6, 2013 are currently in effect.

Facility reservations are on a first come, first served basis. No reservation will be taken over the phone.

Facilities are available for use daily including the following holidays: Good Friday, Easter, Memorial Day, Martin Luther King Jr., Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Rental Times: T.E. Harman Center and First Colony Conference Center: Available during non-programmed hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

Imperial Park Recreation Center Multi Purpose Rooms A/B and Gymnasium: Available during non-programmed hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

Eldridge and Lost Creek Community Centers: Available 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.

Duhacsek Park Community Center and Pavilion: Available 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Eldridge, Lost Creek and Sugar Land Memorial Pavilions: Available 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.

Peak Hours (Friday 5 p.m. to Sunday 10 p.m.): Programs conducted by the City will be given priority at all times, and the City reserves the right to change or cancel reservations that may conflict with a City sponsored event or program.

PAYMENT OF FEES AND DEPOSITS Rental fees and security deposit are payable using the following methods of payment: Cash, check, VISA, Master Card, and American Express. All checks are deposited upon receipt. Fees paid via check can take up to six (6) weeks to be refunded back to the applicant.

Security Deposit To reserve a facility, the rental contract must be accompanied by a security deposit.

The City of Sugar Land reserves the right to increase the security deposit amount or deny a contract based on applicant’s past rental history such as damaging city property, non-payment and not following City rules and regulations.

CITY PROPERTY Applicants shall familiarize themselves with the facility and available equipment before making a reservation. The City of Sugar Land provides only the equipment that is listed on the equipment inventory.

Any other equipment or supplies must be furnished by the applicant.

The City of Sugar Land will not be responsible for any equipment that is not the property of the City of Sugar Land during reserved usage.

No unauthorized person or persons will be allowed to operate the Sugar Land Community Center partition. Such an operation must be performed by a City employee.

Oyster Creek Park / Trail 4033 State Highway 6 South (77479) Brazos River Park 15300 University Blvd. (77479)

Applicants assume liability for the cost of repairing damage to city property or equipment.

The City reserves the right to require applicants, when it is deemed necessary, to provide public liability and/or property damage insurance and any other coverage to protect the property of the City of Sugar Land. Proof of insurance for certain equipment must be submitted to the Parks and Recreation Department ten (10) days prior to the reservation date.

ENTRANCE AND ACCESS Applicants reserving First Colony, Lost Creek, Duhacsek Park and Eldridge Park Community Centers will be issued a key prior to their function. Applicants shall return issued key to the Parks and Recreation Department. Any key not returned to the City of Sugar Land will assess a replacement fee of $60.00 from the security deposit.

Americans with Disabilities Act - The community buildings are wheel chair accessible and a sloped curb entry is available, with specially marked parking spaces nearby. If you require special services, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department 48 hours prior to the event for additional arrangements.

PERSONAL PROPERTY Each center has sufficient tables and chairs for its maximum occupancy for the applicants use. None of the equipment may be taken outside of these facilities for any reason. Renters will be liable for any equipment missing or damaged as a result of the renter’s use whether the renter actually removed the equipment or not.

In the event the facility doesn’t have an adequate number of tables, chairs, or other items suitable for the applicant’s needs, such items shall be rented at the applicant’s expense. The City of Sugar Land is in no manner liable or responsible for personal property or rented items.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Persons visibly under the influence of drugs or intoxicated may be asked to leave the premises or surrounding areas.

Applicants holding functions where alcoholic beverages will be served or consumed are required to have a Sugar Land Police Officer(s) present during the function.

EVENT SECURITY Applicants agree to comply with all applicable state and local liquor laws.

The City has the right to require a Sugar Land Police officer (s) for any and all functions. Taking into consideration among other things, the size of the group anticipated, the average age of the group, the presence of alcoholic beverages, live entertainment and past experience with a group.

If Security officers are required, the officer(s) are assigned from guest arrival thru clean up and securing the facility with minimum of 4 hours. The City has the right to require Sugar Land Police officers or additional City staff for any and all functions.

PARKS & RECREATION, continued on page 34

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

33

Sugar Land Parks & Recreation Areas PARKS & RECREATION, continued from page 33

CLEAN UP The applicant agrees to dispose of all garbage in the parking lot dumpster, remove all decorations including pins, tape etc.

Pick up garbage in the parking lot and patio areas (front and back of building) clean and return all tables, chairs and stage to proper location in the storage room.

CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS To receive a refund of rental fees and security deposit, cancellations must be completed no later than thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled event. A $50.00 processing fee will be deducted from the security deposit for a cancellation made less than thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled event.

Any and all changes made to the original reservation contract must be made in writing, please email: parkreservations@ sugarlandtx.gov or fax 281.275-2828 Attention: Reservationist.

EMERGENCIES In case of emergencies during the use of the community centers, including but not limited to: plumb-ing problems, power failure and air conditioning problems, the applicant shall contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 281-275-2885.

After business hours the answering service will contact the Parks and Recreation Department on-call staff person. In case of non-park related emergencies contact the Police Department dispatch at 281-275-2525.

SUGAR LAND PARKS AND FACILITIES City Park and Municipal Pool - 225 7th Street A 21-acres at Wood and 7th Street next to Sugar Land Middle School. Pool, 25 yards, with 2 diving board, 5 lighted baseball fields (one Tee-Ball, three Little League and one Pony League), football practice areas, a lighted/covered skate park, 4 lighted tennis courts, a playground, batting cages, grills, benches, picnic tables, restrooms, a sand volleyball area, horseshoe pits, covered picnic shelter, concession stands and meeting room.

Colony Bend Park - 2809 Planters Street This 5-acre park has 2 playgrounds, sand volleyball court, 2 game tables, 2 picnic shelters, 2 soccess field, park benches, spring toys, and drinking fountains.

Imperial Park and Disc Golf Course - 230 Matlage Way Behind the T.E. Harman Center and the Imperial Park Recreation Center with access from U.S. 90A across from the old Imperial Sugar factory; 44 acre park with 9 softball fields, batting cages, disc golf, a playground, picnic area, parking and restrooms; home of the Sugar Land Girls Softball Association.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Sugar Land Memorial Park and Brazos River Corridor 15300 University Blvd Along the Brazos River between U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard.Pawm Springs Dog Park is also at Sugar Land Memorial Park. A second phase for this park will include an enclosed dog park with areas for large and small dogs, a mountain bike trail, picnic pavilions and restroom facilities.

Eldridge Park - 2511 Eldridge Road The 43-acre park is on Eldridge Road near West Airport; community meeting room, picnic pavilion, restrooms, grills, benches, picnic tables, trails, fishing pier, concession stand, playground, 10 soccer fields (most reserved for league play), pond stocked with fish assortment, parking lot; home of the Sugar Land Soccer Club and host of Fun, Fair, Positive Soccer organization.

First Colony Park - 3232 Austin Parkway The 22-acre park has a 3,000 sq ft conference center (may be reserved for private functions for up to 125 guests); 7 lighted and 2 unlighted baseball fields, batting cages, 2 concession stands, playground, drinking fountains, grills, benches, parking, restrooms, picnic tables and picnic pavilion; home of the First Colony Little League and the Greater Sugar Land Pony Colt League.

Lost Creek Park - 3703 Lost Creek Blvd.

The 21-acre park has 7 soccer fields for youth and adults; large play structure, meeting room for up to 40 people, covered picnic pavilion with concession stand, restrooms and parking for over 300 vehicles; a 3-mile Oyster Creek Trail may be accessed from this park; a .9 mile lighted loop trail circles the park site; BMX track for youngsters and teens.

Duhacsek Park - 17034 Old Richmond Road Found at Voss and Old Richmond Road, this 50-acre park site was generously donated to the city by the late Walter and Virginia Duhacsek; huge hand-grafted pecan trees; homestead facility may be reserved for large groups such as Scout for group activities, functions and day camps.

Oyster Creek Park - 4033 State Highway 6 South On SH 6, rock-lined falls and a pond are near the entrance next to Oyster Creek; 3-mile Greenbelt hike and bike trail is accessible from Lexington Blvd., Dulles Ave., and Hwy 6; picnic tables, grills, benches, the Liberty Garden, parking and a restroom; stage/amphitheater covering which may be reserved for private functions and special events; park has been the site of several annual 4th of July events.

Constellation Field 1 Stadium Dr, Sugar Land • Highway 6 This baseball ball park owned by the City of Sugar Land is the home of the Sugar Land Skeeters in the Atlantic League that began play in 2012. The stadium, a state of the art multi-purpose facility, has a 7,500 capacity with ample parking, restroom facilities and multiple entry points, among other advantages. The site accommodated the city’s annual Fourth of July which moved from Oyster Creek Park and may well turn out to be the future site of the yearly celebration.

History of politics in Fort Bend County

W

ith a long and colorful past, Fort Bend County is definitely filled with history…some colorful, some tragic, but all captivating. Fort Bend County began as the Fort literally in the bend of the Brazos River.

When settlers coming from New Orleans were blown off course in the 1820s and came up the Brazos River, the thinking was that they were traversing the Colorado River.

The famed Jaybird-Woodpecker War was one of its most colorful events and it occurred when the Jaybirds, who were wealthy, white, Democrats, sought to rid Fort Bend County of the Woodpecker government put in by the Republicans during Reconstruction. An armed battle which played out on the courthouse steps and city streets of Richmond resulted in several casualties followed by the shooting of two participants. The Woodpeckers were given 10 hours to leave town and many of them did. Order was restored by the governor and the Houston Light Guards, and Fort Bend remained Democratic for the next 100 years.

In those days, Fort Bend County was such a stronghold for the Democratic Party, because so few Republicans resided in the county. It is fact that in the 1960, the county’s Republican chair once received a letter with the nickname “Mr. Republican” in lieu of his name. It was properly delivered.

A changing of the guard As master-planned communities began to develop in the eastern and northern portions of the county, the historically strong Republican base on the west side of Houston began to expand into Fort Bend County.

Beginning in 1978, Republicans began to win a few offices across the county.

Among the first Republicans elected was the fiscally conservative Dr. Ron Paul to the U.S. House of Representatives. He became known for his staunch opposition to the general platforms of both major parties earning the nickname “Dr. No” in the process.

Another key Republican elected during this time was future Congressman and House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, who was elected to represent the county’s only seat in the Texas House of Representatives. By 1984, several county-level positions were taken over by Republicans. In 1984, DeLay succeeded Paul in Congress after Paul ran an unsuccessful U.S. Senate campaign.

The 1994 takeover of the Commissioners’ Court by a Republican County Judge for the first time since Reconstruction solidified Fort Bend County’s perceived reputation as a Republican stronghold.

Today, every elected county wide office in Fort Bend County is held

by Republicans, who also control a majority of precinct based positions (County Commissioners, Constables, Justices of the Peace, etc.).

Times may be changing But things may be changing if the recent general election of 2008 was any indication of things to come. Democrats voted in record numbers. If the momentum continues, as many say it will, the face of Fort Bend County could be changing, politically speaking.

For the last few years, despite Fort Bend being a Republican stronghold, Democrats continue to show strength in a handful of areas

within the county. In 2006, Democrat Nick Lampson defeated Republican write-in candidate Shelley Sekula-Gibbs for the congressional seat in Texas’ 22nd congressional district that was vacated

by Tom DeLay after he resigned from Congress. While Lampson won all four counties that cover the district (Fort Bend, Harris, Brazoria and Galveston), Fort Bend gave Lampson his smallest winning margin of the four counties, at 6.4% percent, compared to 6.92% for Harris County, 7.23% for Brazoria County, and more than 45 percent in Galveston County (whose Democratic base is considered the most active in the state outside of Austin). Lampson was later defeated by the Republican challenger Pete Olson, who is the current incumbent.

Commissioners Court is the grass roots County politics in Fort Bend County, as with all counties in Texas, are centered around a Commissioners’ Court comprised of four popularly elected County Commissioners, one representing each precinct drawn on the basis of population, and a county judge elected to represent the entire county. Other county officials include a Sheriff, District Attorney, Tax Assessor-Collector, County Clerk, District Clerk, County Treasurer, and County Attorney--all elected countywide. Among the four Commissioners’ Court precincts, Democrats are strongest in Precinct 2, which covers much of Missouri City and eastern areas of Stafford, a traditionally Democratic voting bloc. This is considered the prime Democratic stronghold in the district, as all of its elected officials are Democrats. The other three precincts are still considered heavily Republican, although the 2008 election year saw changes in all precincts that indicate the Democrats might be making a comeback in the county. One obvious change was in Precinct 1 where Democrat Richard Morrison defeated the Republican incumbent. His votes were from the traditionally Democrat votes that turned out in record numbers coupled with some subdivisions’ voters angry about roads.

Precinct 1 covers the southern portions of the county and the cities of Richmond and Rosenberg, as well as areas of Sugar Land south of the Brazos River, while Precinct 3 is situated in the northern part of the county, which includes its share of the Katy area and all of north Sugar Land, and Precinct 4 consists of the heavily Republican southern areas of Sugar Land and Missouri City, as well as several western portions of Sugar Land’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

The 2012 Presidential election between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney has numerous federal, state, district and county candidates pushing for change and flagging the colors of both parties. Needless to say as a result, 2014 will be an interesting political year for resolve and solutions.

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Sugar Land Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479 832-924-7134 281-712-2597 (Breast Imaging) Serving Fort Bend and the surrounding counties since 1988, the hospital provides a range of services - ER, cancer treatment, cardiovascular care, neurosurgery and much more. It is now embarking on major expansion, the hospital will add a new 6-story patient tower and a first development in Missouri City to bring jobs and a larger presence in Fort Bend County. Five major projects: 1) Emergency Care Center on SH 6 between Sienna Plantation and Riverstone communities opening in 2014; 2) Patient Tower between Sweetwater Pavilion and Main Pavilion at the Sugar Land hospital campus adding 104 intensive care and medical/surgical beds for a total of 339 beds for completion in 2016; 3) Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at the SH 6 and Sweetwater Boulevard location, Spine Center will be relocated to the Main Pavilion, completion by 2015;

GASTROENTEROLOGY CONSULTANTS SW, LLP • HEMORRHOIDS? • STOMACH PROBLEMS? • HEARTBURN? • IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME? Keith H. Fiman, MD • REFLUX? J. Guillermo Trabanino, MD Robert E. Davis, MD • LIVER DISEASE? • INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE? • COLON CANCER SCREENING? BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE CLINICAL FACULTY BOARD CERTIFIED IN GASTROENTEROLOGY RECOGNIZED BY BEST DOCTORS IN AMERICA (bestdoctors.com)

Choose experience in your gastroenterologist 1111 Highway 6, Suite 105 • Sugar Land, Texas 77478

281-491-9779 • www.gastrosw.com

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

4) Cath Lab/Heart Center expansion and relocation with new facility closer to the emergency room for opening in 2015; 5) Birthing Center renovation, additional space and updates at Sweetwater Pavilion.

Kindred Hospital Sugar Land 1550 First Colony Boulevard 281-275-6000 Our long-term acute care (LTAC) hospital is known for its advanced technologies, innovative treatment protocols, and compassionate care. Sugar Land is becoming known statewide and nationally for its growing and diverse medical community and Kindred Hospital Sugar Land is pleased to be an integral part of it.

This is a free-standing hospital with an 18-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 87 medical/surgical beds. An on-site hemodialysis suite allows for dual patient dialysis; hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) chamber for complicated wound cases; CT plus radiology/ fluoroscopy suite; 24-hour in house physician coverage and the full complement of clinical ancillary services.

St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-637-7000 St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital is dedicated to caring for the entire person - mind, body and spirit. A subsidiary of St. Luke’s Episcopal Health System, St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital offers a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient services.

ER Directory

WE CARE about our patients.

SOME WORDS ABOUT US

Sugar Land Surgical Hospital now Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital – First Colony 16906 Southwest Fwy Sugar Land, TX 774790 281-243-1000

Brazos Dialysis is a new state of the art facility. We have a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals ready to serve you. We specialize in meeting the needs of hemodialysis & peritoneal dialysis patients. Full – Service Peritoneal Dialysis Program.

Hours for Rosenberg Monday,Wednesday, Friday 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Hours for Sugar Land Monday, Wednesday, Friday 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Sugar Land Surgical Hospital joined the Memorial Hermann health system and took on a new name. Inpatient, outpatient surgery, imaging and emergency services.

Sugar Land Diagnostic Center 15300 Southwest Freeway 281-274-6600 The Sugar Land Diagnostic Center, a department of West Houston Medical Center, this facility is located in the Sugar Land Medical Center building and on the same campus as the Sugar Land Cancer Center. Diagnostic testing, imaging and lab/EKG procedures are provided. The center is for outpatient services. Same day testing within the same facility is available as is the level of care received in a hospital setting.

Texas Children’s Hospital 15400 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-494-7010 St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital has teamed up with Texas Children’s Hospital to provide quality care in Fort Bend County, eliminating the need for families to travel to the Texas Medical Center to receive care for many illnesses. The same Baylor College of Medicine neonatal specialists and pediatric emergency physicians who care for patients at Texas Children’s Hospital in the Texas Medical Center also provide on-site coverage at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital. Pediatric care is managed by Texas Children’s Hospital for the neonatal intensive care unit, the emergency department, and the pediatric observation unit. While St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital provides emergency services to children 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, currently Texas Children’s Hospital provides care daily from 11 am to 11 pm.

HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital 1325 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281 276-7574

SUGAR LAND HOSPITALS, continued on page 38

Sugar Taking Dialysis Therapies to NewLand Heights Now Accepting Medicare & Medicaid Insurance

Sugar Land 13855 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-240-5095 www.sldialysis.com

Brazos

Brazos 1730 B.F. Terry Blvd. #1102 Rosenberg, TX 77471 832-595-0003 www.brazosdialysis.org

Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, FAAO

Therapeutic/Optometric Glaucoma Specialist Board Certified in Vision Therapy Reading/Visual Skills Program • Medical Management of Eye Diseases • Children’s Visual Perceptual Testing and Therapy • Co-Management of Laser Surgery • Contact Lenses • Complete Line of Fashion & Professional Frames • SPORTS WEAR: Swimming Goggles, Sunglasses & High Tech Sports Glasses

For the past 24 years, Dr. Wedemeyer has been dedicated to providing the best possible care to every patient, and places a strong emphasis on individual attention and quality time to meet patient needs.

281-499-2600

6026 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.drwedemeyer.com

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Sugar Land Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, SUGAR LAND HOSPITALS, continued from page 37

HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital is a 50-bed rehabilitation hospital that offers specialized inpatient rehabilitation services from hip fractures to joint replacements and stroke to Parkinson’s disease.

M.D. Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77478 (on the campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital) 713-745-9940 The Regional Care Center in Sugar Land treats all types of cancer.

It offers many of the same patient services as the main campus, with more being added every day. Patients are provided with world-class standard of care in a comforting community setting.

Texas Oncology Cancer Center 1350 First Colony Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-277-5200 Texas Oncology-Sugar Land 1350 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479 Texas Oncology-Sugar Land Grand Parkway 17510 W. Grand Parkway, Suite 420, Sugar Land, TX 77479 The medical services of this center include oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, chemotherapy, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, a full-service pharmacy and participation in clinical trials of the latest new therapies. Patients also have a wide range of support services to help them with the emotional, psychological, nutritional and financial challenges they may have. Diagnostic technologies used at the center include computed tomography (CT) imaging. They also offer modulated radiation therapy. The center is part of the nation’s largest independent oncology practice and part of the US Oncology network, headquartered in Houston.

Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center 11555 University Boulevard @ Hwy. 6 S Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-442-9100 Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, Houston’s largest community-based physician group, opened a new facility in Fort Bend County in 2005.

The 75,000 square-foot medical facility has a wide range of primary care and specialty care doctors, as well as an expanded pharmacy with drive-thru services and enhanced diagnostic services such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerized Tomography (CT), mammography and X-ray. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday Friday, open on Saturday for pediatric visits. Closed Sunday.

Sugar Land Cancer Center 15500 Southwest Freeway 281-274-8200 April 2003 marked the opening of the $8.6 million Sugar Land Cancer Center, located next to the Sugar Land Medical Center. The comprehensive multi-disciplinary cancer center was the first outpatient radiation center built in Fort Bend County. It offers radiation therapy and has research-based diagnostic abilities for treating more than 150 cancers.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

ER Directory

With two hospital locations and several other physician and specialty locations to serve your family’s healthcare needs, and a continuously expanding scope of services, OakBend Medical Center is your community hospital.

St. Michael’s 24 Hour Emergency Center Sugar Land 16062 Southwest Freeway @ Hwy. 6 281-980-4357

Emerus 24 Hour Emergency Room 16000 Southwest Freeway #100 281-277-0911 Emergency services include, but are not limited to, the following: acute abdominal pain, allergic reactions, altered mental status, asthma and breathing problems, bone setting and splinting, burns, chest pain and heart attacks, dehydration, dislocated joints, foreign-body removal, head injuries, lumbar puncture, overdoses, pain control, pneumonia, rashes, insect bites, stings, seizures, simple and complex lacerations, sprains and broken bones, strokes, trauma.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital 17500 West Grand Parkway South Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-725-5000 This hospital in Sugar Land is a 79-private bed, full-service, acute care facility with all-private patient rooms and all-digital technology enhancing patient safety and quality. The center recently opened Children’s Emergency Center. If a higher level of care is required, Memorial Hermann Life Flight® air ambulance and its highly trained medical personnel can transport patients from its base in Sugar Land to Southwest or Texas Medical Center hospitals. Visit memorialhermann.org; Memorial Hermann Imaging Center is at 17510 W. Grand Parkway #120, Sugar Land, TX 77479, 281- 7255050.

www.sugarlandrx.com

281-302-6080 Fax: 281-201-8259 14891 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478

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St. Michael’s opened in March 2007 and always open, it provides emergency services 24/7. The facility has 10 treatment rooms and 6 emergency physicians. The emergency center has full labs and provides CT scans and X-rays.

Compounding with the Latest and Greatest Technology!

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OakBend Medical Center 1705 Jackson Street 22003 Southwest Freeway 4911 Sand Hill Drive 281-341-3000 • 281-341-2000

Protect your health, welfare and appearance visit:

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or call 832-530-8121

JENNIFER WEAVER 281-207-5037 Jennifer@JenniferWeaver.com www.JenniferWeaver.com

Experience.

Professionalism.

Dedication.

RE/MAX Southwest 281-491-1776 x5037

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Welcome to Sugar Land!

Sugar Land Democrats Club “Q” Imam Co-Founder

Cynthia Ginyard FBCDP Secretary

Deron Patterson Co-Founder

281.841.5920 Visit www.sl-dc.org or find us on Facebook for meeting info.

Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Fort Bend Church Directory Christ United Methodist 281-980-6888 3300 Austin Parkway Sugar Land www.cumcsl.org

First Colony Bible Chapel 281-265-3411 3610 Austin Parkway Sugar Land www.firstcolonybible.org

Church of Christ/Sugar Land 281-561-0881 15590 Voss Road Sugar Land

First Colony Church of Christ 281-980-7070 2140 First Colony Blvd.

Sugar Land www.firstcolonychurch.org

Church of God Sugar Land 281-242-2424 1715 Eldridge Road Sugar Land Congregation Beth El 281-499-5066 3900 Raoul Wallenberg Lane Missouri City www.cbefortbendtx.org Cornerstone Assembly of God 281-491-3614 2515 Eldridge Road Sugar Land www.cornerstonesugarland.com Cross Bridge Community Church 281-313-8300 1049 Eldrige Road Sugar Land www.crossbridge.cc Eldridge Rd. Church of Christ 281-494-7106 410 Eldridge Road Sugar Land Faith Lutheran Church 281-242-7729 800 Brooks Street, Sugar Land www.flcsl.org

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First Colony Christian Church and Community Center 281-980-4141 4141 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land www.fcccdoc.org First Presbyterian Church 281-240-3195 502 Eldridge Road Sugar Land www.fpcsl.org Fishers of Men Lutheran Church 281-242-7711 2011-2011-2012 Austin Parkway Sugar Land www.fishersofmen.org Freedom Church 281-565-4406 3301 S Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land www.freedomchurchintl.com Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 281-277-5014 16138 Boss Gaston Road Sugar Land

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Friendship Church 281-341-1300 4640 Richmond Foster Road Richmond www.friendshipchurch.cc Grace Church 281-778-1104 4309 Sienna Parkway Missouri City www.experiencehisgrace.com Grand Parkway Baptist Church 281-277-2200 1200 FM 1464 Sugar Land

Heritage Baptist Church 281-403-4994 2223 FM 1092 Missouri City www.hbctx.org Holy Cross Episcopal 281-633-2000 5653 West River Park Drive Sugar Land www.holycrosschurch.com Jehovah’s Witnesses 281-568-7446 9811 Howell Road Sugar Land www.watchtower.org SUGAR LAND CHURCH DIRECTORY, continued from page 42

Sugar Grove Church of Christ A non-denominational Christ centered church for you and your family.

Sunday Services: 8:30 AM- Worship (English)

9:45 AM - Bible Classes (For All Ages)

WES

11:00 AM - Worship

(English and Spanish)

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11600 West Airport Blvd, Meadows Place, TX 77477

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www.SugarGrove.org • 281-530-9651

Expect More!

Academic Excellence in a Christian Environment

Northeast corner of W. Airport & S. Kirkwood just off Highway U.S. 59

SOUTH KIRKWOOD

SOUTH KIRKWOOD

Northeast corner of W. Airport & S. Kirkwood just off Highway U.S. 59

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Preschool through 6th grade 11600 West Airport Blvd.

Meadows Place, TX 77477

www.sgcs.org • 281-575-6598 Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Fort Bend Church Directory SUGAR LAND CHURCH DIRECTORY, continued from page 40

Mt Pleasant Baptist Church 281-494-3826 127 Avenue E Sugar Land Oak Lake Baptist Church 281-568-7220 15555 West Airport Blvd.

Sugar Land www.oaklakebaptist.org Family Life Christian Fellowship 281-879-Life (5433) 16425 Old Richmond Rd. Sugar Land www.flcf.com

New Bethel Baptist Church 281-531-5683 14820 Branch Forest Dr. Houston www.nbbcofalief.org Parkway United Methodist Church 281-494-5050 5801 New Territory Blvd.

Sugar Land www.parkwayumc.org Providence Christian Church 281-495-8151 8727 Gaines Road Sugar Land www.providencechristianchurch.com

Providence Presbyterian Church 281-980-2522 3510 Austin Parkway Sugar Land www.providencepresbyterian.org

Southminster Presbyterian Church 281-499-2310 4200 Cartwright Rd. Missiouri City www.southminpres.org

River Pointe Community Church 281-277-6767 5000 Ransom Rd. Richmond www.riverpointe.org

St. Laurence Catholic Parish 281-980-9812 30100 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land www.stlaurence.com

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Bring this coupon in for 50% OFF REGISTRATION • EXP. 7/31/14 3527 Highway 6 •Sugar Land, Texas 77478

281-491-2490 • www.noahsarkacademy.com

First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land SUGAR LAND

502 ELDRIDGE ROAD Sugar Land, Texas 77478 (On Eldridge between Seventh St & Lakeview Dr.)

281-240-3195

www.holycrosschurch.com

Reverend Dr. Frederick Seay

Fax: 281-240-3196 office@fpcsl.org www.fpcsl.org

A quality early childhood program for 2-5 year olds.

281-240-1565 • www.appletreeschoolonline.com

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

St. Martins Lutheran Church 281-980-0695 1123 Burney Road www.stmartinslc.org St. Theresa Church 281-494-1156 115 7th Street, Sugar Land www.sttheresasugarland.org St. Thomas Aquinas 281-240-6721 12627 West Bellfort Avenue Sugar Land www.stthomasaquinas.info Sugar Creek Baptist Church 281-242-2858 13333 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land www.sugarcreek.net Sugar Land Chinese Church 281-491-9137 2565 Eldridge Road Sugar Land Sugar Grove Church of Christ 281-530-9651 11600 West Airport Meadows Place www.sugargrove.org Sugar Land Bible Church 281-491-7773 401 Matlage Way Sugar Land www.slbc.org

Sugar Land Family Church 281-313-1110 1110 Burney Road Sugar Land www.slfconline.com Sugar Land Baptist Church 281-980-4431 16755 SW Freeway, Sugar Land www.wtbc.org Sugar Land First United Methodist 281-491-6041 431 Eldridge Road Sugar Land www.sugarlandmethodist.org Sugar Land Vineyard 281-240-VINE (8463) 5015 Grove West, Stafford www.slvineyard.org The Bridge Fellowship 281-494-3036 802 Brooks Street, Sugar Land www.thebridgefellowship.org The Freedom Center 281-499-0594 2303 FM 1092 Missouri City www.freedomcenterchurch.com The Fort Bend Church 281-980-8322 1900 Eldridge Road Sugar Land www.thebend.org

The Epicenter Church 281-491-0000 13867 SW Frwy, Sugar Land www.epicenter-church.com Thompson Chapel Baptist Church 281-565-0254 419 Sartartia Road Sugar Land Thoreau Unitarian Universalist Congregation 281-277-8882 3945 Greenbriar, Ste. D&E Stafford www.tuuc.org Trinity Baptist Church 281-980-8822 4411 Wickford Circle, Sugar Land www.trinitybaptistfb.org

a place to call home Schedule of Services SUNDAY Sunday School.................. 9:30am Sunday AM Worship...... 10:45am Bible Classes.................... 6:05 pm Sunday PM Worship...... 7:00 pm WEDNESDAY Bible Study....................... 7:00pm Awana Bible Clubs........... 7:00pm

Triumph Christian Center 281-242-5109 13100 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land Triumph Church Sugar Land 281975-1504 10555 W. Airport Blvd.

Stafford www.triumphchurch.com

Dr. Charles A. Murphy, Sr. Pastor

281-403-4994 www.hbctx.org 2223 FM 1092 Missouri City, Texas 77459 Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Warning to Newcomers: Do not take hurricane warnings lightly Hurricane season in this area is always June - November

W

hile Sugar Land is somewhat removed from the Gulf Coast area, newcomers are asked to pay special attention to annual hurricane preparedness information, especially advisories during hurricane season, June - November. They are intended to help you make informed decisions on your risk and provide for alternatives on what actions you may need to take, if any. Play close attention to recommendations of local area officials on TV, radio and other media, and to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest tropical thunderstorms and hurricanes information.

In 2008, Hurricane Ike skirted the Fort Bend County area causing millions upon millions of dollars in damage. Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and in the eastern Pacific Ocean. While scientists can now predict hurricanes, it is not without surprises. And those in emergency management say the time to prepare for a hurricane is now, before the threat is imminent.

Some of the suggestions include: Get A Kit / “To-Go Bag” Get an Emergency Supply Kit, which includes items like nonperishable food, water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries. You may want to prepare a portable kit and keep it in your car. This kit should include: Copies of prescription medications and medical supplies; Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows; Bottled water, a battery-operated radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit, a flashlight; Copies of important documents: driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, proof of residence, pictures of your family including pets, and comfortable clothing and blankets; etc.

Make sure you have a “to-go bag” ready in case you need to evacuate. When it comes to pets, now is the time to purchase the right size kennel cage and familiarize your pet with being confined.

Also, put copies of rabies vaccination and medications.

During Hurricane Katrina many islanders and coastal residents refused to evacuate because they would have to leave beloved pets behind and most shelters were not allowing pets in with evacuees.

Due to the number of tragic stories, most shelters either accommodate pets or supply an alternative location to temporarily house your pet. Most hotels and motels also now allow pets.

However, most require they be vaccinated, kenneled or on a leash.

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

Make a Plan-Prepare your family Make a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency. Plan places where your family will meet, both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood.

It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.

You may also want to inquire about emergency plans at places where your family spends time: work, daycare and school. If no plans exist, consider volunteering to help create one.

If you do not have a car, plan alternate means of evacuating.

If you have a car, keep a half tank of gas in it at all times, especially during hurricane season, June – November, in case you need to evacuate.

Take your Emergency Supply Kit. Be Informed Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a hurricane.

A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area. Be prepared to evacuate. Monitor local radio and television news outlets or listen to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest developments.

Local governmental entities, including the city and county have websites devoted to information during disasters, including hurricanes and tropical storms. However when a storm hits, the internet may not be available.

WARNING TO NEWCOMERS, continued on page 46

Important Numbers to Keep Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Contact the Chamber of Commerce for a Relocation Package.

Includes a magazine with information on area housing, schools, churches, retail, restaurants and more. The Chamber also sells Fort Bend County street maps for $2.

445 Commerce Green Blvd.

(281) 491-0800 www.fortbendchamber.com Fort Bend Association of Realtors 281-343-9300 Contact the Fort Bend Association of Realtors for information on a Realtor in the Fort Bend County area. You also may want to request a copy of the association’s annual publication, Fort Bend County Houston’s Finest Address A Guide to Homes, Neighborhoods and Lifestyles Area School Districts Fort Bend ISD 16431 Lexington Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 phone: (281) 634-1000 Web site: www.fortbend.k12.tx.us Lamar CISD 3911 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 phone: (281) 341-3229 Web site: www.lcisd.org Fort Bend County Courthouse 309 South Fourth (street) 301 Jackson (mailing) Richmond, Texas 77469 (281) 342-3411 FaxBack Info. Line: (281) 243-8121 U.S. Post Office Sugar Land Main Post Office 225 Matlage Way (800) 275-8777 First Colony Branch 3130 Grants Lake Blvd.

(800) 275-8777 Fort Bend Central Appraisal District 2801 B. F. Terry Blvd.

Rosenberg, Texas 77471 (281) 344-8623 Driver’s License Dept. of Public Safety 5505 Avenue N (FM 2218 off U.S. 59) Rosenberg, TX (281) 633-5400 Cable Television Comcast 9920 Highway 90A (713) 341-1000 1-800-776-9993

Gas Service Centerpoint Energy 501 Morton, Richmond, TX 77469 (281) 342-6665 Electric Service Reliant Energy All Service Requests Handled via Phone (713) 207-7777 or Visit Texas Electric Choice, where you can choose the Retail Electric Provider that’s right for you.

Water Service City of Sugar Land Treasury Management 2700 Town Center Blvd. North (281) 275-2750 Telephone/Cable/Internet There are a couple of choices for phone, cable and/or internet, some as bundles.These include: WindStream Communications 8306 Highway 90 A 866.255.8356 (residential service) 800.843.9214 (business service) MCI 888-624-5622

Also, online auto registration renewal; visit TxDMV -Vehicle Registration Renewal for eligibility requirements

Recycling Curbside Sugar Land Drop Off Centers – closed permanently

Voter Registration Ask for a voter registration card at Sugar Land City Hall, a U.S. Post Office or a county office. Return the form to the Voter Registrar. Questions should be addressed to the Elections/Voter Registration Office at (281) 341-8670.

Fort Bend County Recycling & Environmental Center 1200 Blume Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-633-7581 281-633-7527 (Recording)

CHARLTON’S Body Repair

Local Family Business Since 1957

DOMESTIC • IMPORT • HONEST SERVICE

• Vehicles, Motor Homes and RV’s • We Handle All Insurance Claims • Expert Computer Color Matching

• Complete Collision Repair • Frame & Unibody Straightened • Custom Painting & Pin Stripping

281-499-1126

DELAILING FOR ALL VEHICLES AND RV’S www.charltonbodyrepair.com Hours: Mon-Fri: 7-6 PM 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St. Stafford, Texas

AT&T 800-288-2020 Comcast (713) 341-1000 1-800-776-9993 Social Security Social Security Administration 10703 Stancliff Houston, TX 77099 (800) 772-1213 http://www.ssa.gov

281-240-3673 12220 Southwest Frwy. @ West Airport/Kirkwood

Automobile Registration License Plates Fort Bend County Tax Assessor-Collector 12550 Emily Court Sugar Land Substation (281) 242-4311 Fort Bend Auto Registration 500 Liberty St. Richmond, TX 77469 (281) 341-3709 Fort Bend County Registration & Titling Mailing Address: (FB Co Tax Office) 1317 Eugene Heimann Circle Richmond, TX 77469

HELFMAN HAS IT ALL!

DMV Phone Number (281) 341-3710 Fax:(281) 238-3265 Email:fbcauto@co.fort-bend.tx.us www.co.fort-bend.tx.us/

12220 Southwest Frwy. @ West Airport/Kirkwood

Price • Selection • Service

www.helfmanford.com Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

45

Warning to Newcomers: flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

WARNING TO NEWCOMERS, continued from page 44

A hurricane warning is when a hurricane is expected in your area. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.

Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and damage potential. Category Three and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes, though Categories One and Two are still extremely dangerous and warrant your full attention.

If flooding and heavy rain is expected, there are a number of preventive measures you can take to minimize the damage.

Cover all of your home’s windows with pre-cut ply wood or hurricane shutters to protect your windows from high winds.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down and could be a projectile as a result of high winds.

Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.

Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.

Turn off propane tanks Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and

Prepare Your Business Plan to stay in business, talk to your employees, and protect your investment.

Carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.

Identify operations critical to survival and recovery.

Plan what you will do if your building, plant or store is not accessible.

Consider if you can run the business from a different location or from your home.

Develop relationships with other companies to use their facilities in case a disaster makes your location unusable.

Learn about programs, services, and resources at U.S. Small Business Administration.

Listen to Local Officials Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.

Over 212,000 vehicles serviced since 1991!

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED! We offer one of Houston’s Best warranties! 2 years or 24,000 miles on all work completed on your vehicle. Call us today to find out more!

281.980.4440

1131 Dulles Ave. • Stafford, TX 77477 Across from Riverbend Country Club Check our website at www.colonyoneauto.com 46

2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

BBB Rating: A+

FREE

SHUTT LE SERVIC AVAILA E COUNT BLE YWIDE

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Your Advocate for Business Excellence in Fort Bend County

T

he Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce describes itself as a major contributor of economic prosperity, the community’s well being and the tourism market. It is committed to maintaining and improving the quality of life enjoyed in Fort Bend. Serving 1,200 business members, small, medium and large companies and organizations, the Chamber has become their principal voice and business advocate in Fort Bend County. With this strong network of business leaders, it serves as the catalyst for business and economic growth in the Fort Bend region.

All this began in 1972, when the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce was established as a vital resource for businesses in Fort Bend County.

In the early 1970s, the county’s total population was slightly more than 15,000. At that time the business community consisted mainly of Imperial Sugar, Texas Instruments and a handful of grocery stores and auto dealers. “Back then the area had only a handful of lawyers, and I assisted several business minded citizens in getting off to the right start legally,” said Leonard Scarcella, Mayor of Stafford. “The Quail Valley and Sugar Creek residential areas had just begun to grow but there was still very limited commercial development and it has always been my position that you need a strong commercial component.”

With astonishing growth in the area, the population grew to over 600,000. The county now boasts a mecca for medical centers, hospitals, a regional airport; headquarters for worldwide companies, a mall, town square and many other destination retail outlets and a wide variety of restaurants. Sugar Land is home to numerous high profile regional and international corporations including Minute Maid, Schlumberger, Fluor Corporation, Bechtel EO, and Aetna. There’s also Global Geophysical, Niagara, and a Trammell Crow Company and Crow Holdings Development Lakeview Business Park in Missouri City’s newest industrial park.

“The chamber has been very active and has grown substantially over the years,” said Mayor Scarcella. “They now play a very prominent role and they do a good job promoting the commercial activities of all types of businesses in Fort Bend County,” he said. “The Chamber has developed some very significant and interesting seminars, conferences, and programs that small and large businesses can take advantage of due to their excellent networking opportunities.”

One of the original businessmen involved in the creation of the Chamber of Commerce was John Null. He served on the board of directors from the Chamber’s inception until the mid-1980s, including a stint as the Director.

“The first 10 years or so, the Chamber was still in the informative stages, developing the membership and initiatives, a small business division, and economic development to assist in bringing business to the community to have a facility where people could meet,” said Null.

“In 1985, the old train depot was relocated to the site of the current Chamber location and is now a central place in the business community. The Chamber added leadership programs and expanded its services over time.”

LEORNARD SCARCELLA Mayor of Stafford

KERI CURTIS SCHMIDT Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce President & CEO

According to Null, one of the Chamber’s biggest accomplishments has been building a relationship between the community and businesses, along with uniting people to create a synergy for our JOHN NULL community that continues today and has Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Early Businessman expanded far beyond the chamber.

“We understand that in order to have a strong economic environment, we must have a strong community that supports and encourages growth and innovative thinking,” maintains the Chamber’s President and CEO Keri Curtis Schmidt. “We are truly fortunate to have leaders, business owners, educators, and a wealth of private citizens, who recognize that we all share in the responsibility of creating economic stability and success which produces a healthy community environment for our future. As a community, we share the vision. We work, we volunteer, support and serve as we build on the successes of those who came before us to develop new and innovative strategies that will make our community even better.”

For the past 40 plus years, the Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled its mission as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. Driven to expanding employment opportunities and being an advocate and partner to its members, it creates solutions for business and community issues. Whether through the Education Division, Infrastructure Planning, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, Economic Development, Member Services, Youth in Philanthropy, Leadership Excellence for Not-for-Profits and the region’s premier Leadership Forum programs, the Chamber works to address its members’ needs. New initiatives like the Healthcare Division and the Chamber Young Professionals helps ensure that the Chamber will deliver value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County while having new Chamber Partners help welcome and mentor new chamber members.

“I am honored and humbled to serve with an enthusiastic and impressive staff and an army of volunteers who work out-front, as well as behind the scenes to build an even stronger Fort Bend County. The unique diversity of our community and ability to merge cultures, ideas, and values represents our strength.” says Schmidt, “As we work together and support the efforts of all, we MAKE THINGS HAPPEN!” Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory • 2014

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Advertisers Index A Dog’s Life......................................................27

Holy Cross Episcopal Church.......................... 42

Rio Raton Duplex..............................................27

Angie Snyder, ABR, BPOR, GRI, SRES..............27

Inspired Floors of Texas.........................................1

Safari Texas Ranch.......................................... 28

Ann Moody Sill Dance Studio.......................... 25

Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI, ABR........................15

Select Plumbing.............................................. 20

Arlene R. Rolsen, CRS.......................................13

Jennifer Weaver.............................................. 39

Service King Collision Repair Center.............IBC

Built-In Appliances............................................31

Julie Moise Team ............................................31

Silver Democrats..............................................27

Castle Furniture..............................................IFC

Julies Cakes.................................................... 30

Southwest Storage............................................31

Charlton’s Body Repair.................................... 45

KenWood & Associates................................... 26

Sugar Grove Church of Christ...........................41

Colony One Auto Center.................................. 46

Leavings Concrete Co.......................................15

Sugar Grove Christian School...........................41

Elissa R. Wedemeyer, O.D., FCOVD, FAAO........37

Member Source Credit Union.......................... 48

Sugar Land Dialysis.........................................37

First Presbyterian of Sugar Land..................... 42

Memorial Hermann Hospital................................5

Brazos Dialysis.................................................37

Fort Bend Christian Academy.......................... 23

Noahs Ark Academy........................................ 42

Sugar Land Art Center & Gallery.......................21

Freebirds World Burrito................................... 29

Parisian Bakery & Sandwiches....................... 29

Sugar Land Compounding Pharmacy............. 39

Gary Greene.......................................................11

Preferred Dental Insurance............................. 39

Sugar Land Democrats Club........................... 39

Gastroenterology Consultants SW, LLP........... 36

Ragin Cajun.............................................. Back

The Andreason Law Firm..................................15

Helfman Ford................................................... 45

RC Hobby Shop............................................... 25

The School for Little Children.......................... 25

Heritage Baptist Church.................................. 43

Remax Fine Properties.........................................7

Used Car Lover.com.............................................3

Historic Richmond Association..........................15

Rio Brazos Hunting Preserve............................15

Yoga Mix Studio............................................... 24

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2014 • Sugar Land Newcomer Guide and Visitor Directory

www.ragin-cajun.com 16100 Kensington #400 Sugar Land, TX. 77478 | 281.277.0704