December 2022 Edition of the Ft Bend Business Journal

DECEMBER 2022

FREE • Vol. 41 • No. 12

FEATURING

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Volume 41• Number 12 DECEMBER 2022

Fort Bend Business Journal 14100 Southwest Freeway Ste. 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Single copy FREE

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2022 FREE • Vol. 41 • No. 12

FEATURING

COVER STORY

TX STREET MEDIA

TEXAS STREET MEDIA

& PUBLICATIONS LOCAL BUSINESSES

PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES

TO COMMUNITIES

BRINGING

TX STREET MEDIA pg. 12-14

HONOR ROLL LISTING............................................. 6-9 BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY. . ............................. 18-19 SERVICE DIRECTORY............................................ 21-22 The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

BACK

AGAIN See pages 12-14

TEXAS STREET MEDIA ©2022 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

3

“We’ve always loved kids and are thrilled to have the opportunity to play a part in shaping the future generation...”

- Amanda Fisk

Local early learning school under new ownership

By Landan Kuhlmann

A young learning and childcare center in Fort Bend County is under new ownership.

In mid-November, Dallas-based Children’s Lighthouse announced that Brian and Amanda Fisk are new owners of the school’s Grand Mission location at 7307 Grand Mission Blvd. in Richmond.

Brian has an MBA in Human Resources and a decade of human resource management experience, according to the school, and Amanda holds a Bachelor’s of degree in Interdisciplinary Studies 4

and taught elementary in both public and private schools for more than 10 years.

“We’ve always loved kids and are thrilled to have the opportunity to play a part in shaping the future generation,” Amanda Fisk said.

“Children are our now and our tomorrow and we look forward continuing to provide our community with a safe, nurturing environment where our students can grow and flourish.”

To learn more about the Grand Mission Children’s Lighthouse, December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

visit https://childrenslighthouse.com/ grandmission, email: GM@ ChildrensLighthouse.com, or call them at 281-232-7733.

“We’re incredibly lucky to have Amanda and Brian as a part of our team,” said Michael Brown, president of Children’s Lighthouse franchise. “They not only have great backgrounds that are a sure sign of success, but they’re passionate about children and serving their community. We couldn’t have found a better pair to represent and uphold the Children’s Lighthouse mission.”

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The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

5

BUSINESS HONOR ROLL THE BEGINNINGS AND GROWTH OF SOME OF FORT BEND COUNTY’S LEADING BUSINESSES

5

8

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

Robert Wolter

Off the Vine Bistro

ElderCare Advisor & Owner- Assisted Living Locators 1421 Georgina Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-691-6321 AssistedLivingLocators.com/SWHouston

2865 Dulles Ave @ Cartwright • Missouri City 77459 281-242-4186 www.offthevinebistro.com

Lisa N. Sims State Farm Agent 11647 S. HWY 6, • Sugar Land 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com

•• ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1980 2018 ••

• ESTABLISHED 2015 •

• ESTABLISHED 2015 •

10

12

14

YEARS Pierce Built Homes

YEARS

YEARS

Hope For Three Autism Advocates

Signature Hearing & Balance

526 Brooks • Sugar Land 77478 281-201-8711 www.piercebuilthomes.com

12808 W Airport Blvd. STE. 375 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-245-0640 www.hopeforthree.org

• ESTABLISHED 2013•

• ESTABLISHED 2011 •

• ESTABLISHED 2009 •

23

24 YEARS

31

YEARS

Federal Maintenance

Tracy Walker

Ace Tile / Eddie Allum

YEARS

6

8

TARA JOHNSTON, AUD 1856 FM 359 • Richmond 77406 866-714-7495

SIGNATUREHEARINGANDBALANCEPLLC.COM

10000 Mula Rd. Stafford ,TX 77477 281-498-0588 www.fmstex.com

State Farm Agent 15510 Lexington Blvd • Sugar Land 77478 281-265-0711

Ceramic Tile, Granite Countertops, Wood Floors, Carpet, Painting, and Wood Decking • Missouri City 281-898-0154

• ESTABLISHED 2000 •

• ESTABLISHED 1999 •

• ESTABLISHED 1992 •

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

BUSINESS HONOR ROLL THE BEGINNINGS AND GROWTH OF SOME OF FORT BEND COUNTY’S LEADING BUSINESSES

33

36

38

Sugar Creek Animal Clinic

Taurus Mechanical Inc.

Sanders & Yan CPAs, PC

14015 Southwest Freeway, Bldg. 2 • Sugar Land, 77478 281-242-9070 www.sugarcreekanimalclinic.com

Sugar Land A/C Heating - Residential #TACL B18036E 832-731-5256

12705 S. Kirkwood Rd. Ste 209 • Stafford, TX 77477 281-491-9100 Website: Cysanders.com

• ESTABLISHED 1990 •

• ESTABLISHED 1986•

• ESTABLISHED 1985 •

38

39

39

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

YEARS

Jeanne Gregory, Realtor®

Hunan Garden Restaurant

Integrated Pest Management

4601 Avenue H (HWY 90) • Rosenberg, TX 281-342-7279 www.hunangardenrestaurant.com

1118 Highway 90-A • Richmond 77406 281-341-1761 www.integrated-pest.com

•• ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1980 1985 ••

SAME OWNER • SAME LOCATION • SINCE 1984

• ESTABLISHED 1984 •

40

40

43

Ed’s Pharmacy

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

Schofield Company

3740 Cartwright Road • Missouri City 77459 281-499-4555 www.edspharmacy.com

1015 Frost St. • Rosenberg 77471 281-342-3086 www.benjaminfranklinplumbing.com

RE/MAX Southwest 14905 Southwest FWY • Sugar Land 713-854-0923

YEARS

• ESTABLISHED 1983 •

YEARS

Serving Fort Bend County

• ESTABLISHED 1980 • • ESTABLISHED 1983 • The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

YEARS

SCHOFIELD COMPANY 281-217-5799 • ESTABLISHED 1980 •

7

BUSINESS HONOR ROLL THE BEGINNINGS AND GROWTH OF SOME OF FORT BEND COUNTY’S LEADING BUSINESSES

44

44

44

Dwyatt Gentry, CLU,CASL

Country Club Groom Inn

Jennifer Weaver, Realtor®

State Farm Agent Dwyatt.gentry.hck3@statefarm.com 3334 FM 1092, Suite 420 • Missouri City, 77459 281-499-2264

2515 Cartwright Rd • Missouri City, 77459 281-499-8772 www.countryclubpettx.com

• ESTABLISHED 1979 •

•• ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1980 1979 ••

Hometown America Incorporated 800 Bonaventure Way Suite 150, Sugar Land 713-851-7523 www.JenniferWeaver.com •• ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1963 1979 ••

45 YEARS

46 YEARS

47

YEARS

The Fort Bend Star

E.E. Reed Construction, L.P.

Riverbend Montessori School

333 Commerce Green Blvd. • Sugar Land 77478 281-933-4000 www.eereed.com

4225 Elkins Road • Sugar Land 77479 281-980-4123 www.riverbendmontessori.com

• ESTABLISHED 1978 •

• ESTABLISHED 1977 •

• ESTABLISHED 1976 •

47

50 YEARS

52

YEARS

Sugar Land Health Center

YEARS

14100 Southwest Freeway Ste. 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com

YEARS

8

YEARS

YEARS

Robin’s Dance Studio

Aquarius Home Service

3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 • Sugar Land , TX 77478 281-980-1050 www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com

3643 Glenn Lakes Ln. • Missouri City 77459 281-499-3921 www.robinsdancestudio.com

• ESTABLISHED 1976 •

• ESTABLISHED 1973 •

Peter Haselow President Family Business 281-561-8400 www.AquariusHomeService.com • ESTABLISHED 1980 • • ESTABLISHED 1971 •

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

BUSINESS HONOR ROLL THE BEGINNINGS AND GROWTH OF SOME OF FORT BEND COUNTY’S LEADING BUSINESSES

53

66 YEARS

69

Stafford Chiropractic Sports & Wellness

Charlton’s Body Repair

First Community Credit Union

2434 S. Main St. • Stafford, TX. 77477 281-499-2424 StaffordChiropracticClinic.com

1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St. • Stafford 77477 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com

• ESTABLISHED 1970 •

• ESTABLISHED 1957•

• ESTABLISHED 1954 •

69

69

69

First Community Credit Union

First Community Credit Union

First Community Credit Union

8900 Highway 6 (inside HEB) Sienna Office

3400 Highway 6 South Sugar Land Office

281-856-5300 www.FCCU.org

281-856-5300 www.FCCU.org

• ESTABLISHED 1954 •

• ESTABLISHED 1954 •

• ESTABLISHED 1954 •

73

YEARS

78

YEARS

158

Coastal Butane Service Co.

McNutt Electric

Garmany & Carden

YEARS

YEARS

23120 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Cinco Ranch Office

281-856-5300 www.FCCU.org

YEARS

YEARS

10161 Grand Pkwy. South Aliana Office

281-856-5300 www.FCCU.org

YEARS

YEARS

3230 Bamore Road • Rosenberg 77471 281-342-5637 host.trustab.org/coastalbutane

3212 Avenue R • Rosenberg 77471 281-232-3515 www.mcnuttelectric.com

Funeral Directors

•• ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1980 1950 ••

• ESTABLISHED 1945•

• ESTABLISHED 1980 • • ESTABLISHED 1865 •

The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

Rosenberg • Needville 281-342-4671 www.garmanycarden.com

9

AS K TH E EXPE RTS Forge�ulness or Memory Loss?

What’s Normal?

Some�mes it can be hard to dis�nguish Dr. Joanna Ira between mild forge�ulGeriatrician ness (a normal part of aging) and signs of more serious memory problems.

When you misplace your keys or it takes a li�le longer to learn something new, you may worry about the onset of Alzheimer’s or demen�a, but signs that are cause for concern include memory problems that make everyday life more difficult. For example, if you have trouble with driving or find yourself confused or lost in a typically familiar place, you’ll want to visit your doctor for a thorough checkup and cogni�ve screening.

Legacy providers specialize in comprehensive health and wellness care for seniors, and we can discuss your memory concerns and determine your next steps for tes�ng and treatment. Call today or visit LegacyCommunityHealth.org to schedule an appointment.

Q: A:

If my vehicle has frame damage, is it a total loss?

No. a car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds a percentage of the Chuck Charlton vehicle’s value as determined by the insurance company. Today, most cars are built using unibody construction (frame and body as one). A reputable shop with highly skilled technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. The collision repair industry has come a long way with regard to structural repairs. If your vehicle has frame damage and you are concerned about the repair, feel free to contact the shop and they will be able to answer any questions yo may have.

May God Bless our Men and Women in the Military

Charlton’s Body Repair

Legacy Stafford Fountains 12540 Sugardale Drive Stafford, TX 77477 (713) 814 3655

Local Family Business since 1957 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street • Stafford, TX 77477 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com

281-499-1126

Mexican Restaurant

20 Years

FAMILY OWNED / OPERATED

BY JAIME & LUPE GARCIA

• TAMALES • CATERING • HOMEMADE TORTILLAS • HOLIDAY PARTIES • HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS

Margaritas To-Go 281-265-6556 • 3121 Hwy 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 • www.lupitassugarland.com 10

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

TWO HANDS

CORN DOGS

NOW OPEN IN

SUGAR LAND

By Landan Kuhlmann

A

Korean-style corn dog restaurant has opened its doors to one of its newest

locations in Fort Bend County.

Two Hands. In total, the restaurant has dozens of locations in 19 states throughout the country.

Earlier this month, Two Hands Corn

Two Hands offers seven different

Dogs opened its doors at The Shops at

types of Korean street-style corn dogs

Williams Trace, 3540 State Highway 6

such as the Injeolmi Dog, which has

in Sugar Land.

bean powder and Two Hands’ sweet

According to an email from company representatives, it is the eighth location in Texas, and the restaurant’s second

sauced caked on top of the traditional corn dog.

Two Hands is open daily from

Houston-area location. The company

11 a.m.-9 p.m. For more information,

has plans for a restaurant at 13550

visit their website at twohandsus.com

University Blvd. for next year, which

or give the restaurant a call at

will be the ninth Texas location for

281-302-6522.

The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

11

Texas Street Media providing

By Landan Kuhlmann

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES to communities

M

aybe you’re a small business owner looking to get your name out to the community. Or maybe you’re looking for the best source of community news in your neighborhood.

Whether it is one of those or anything in between, Texas-based media company Texas Street Media LLC is providing comprehensive resources to communities throughout its full network of print and digital marketing solutions and local publications. Texas Street Media is a “full-service provider of small business solutions designed to promote and support the success of small businesses,” according to the company.

The company employs several subsidiaries under its umbrella to help small businesses enhance regional visibility and drive customer engagement. Ultimately, the company wants to facilitate clients’ financial growth by sharing relevant information, delivering expert guidance, and empowering sound decisionmaking in all areas of marketing and advertising.

CUSTOM MARKETING SOLUTIONS

T

exas Street Media is part of the national Street Media network. Street Media describes itself as a “full-service powerhouse for all your print, digital and social media needs.” From content creation and influencer marketing to media placement, branded content production, digital marketing and print campaigns, Street Media does it all and more.

“If a small or large business wants total brand extension across the nation, we can make it happen,” said COO Frank Vasquez.

“Our nationwide media footprint and digital advertising resources make us a one-stop solution for local businesses looking to meet today’s ever-changing marketing demands.”

Under the Texas Street Media umbrella CORE Digital Brands, is a newly launched digital marketing agency committed to driving results for business growth. Based on a client’s goals, CORE Digital Brands creates a marketing strategy and executes an effective digital campaign to help build the brand and drive new customer opportunities. The agency offers

TX STREET MEDIA 12

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

“...a one-stop solution for local businesses looking to meet today’s ever-changing marketing demands.”

- Frank Vasquez, C.O.O. websites, SEO, social media services and paid advertising to keep businesses in front of all their potential customers.

It also offers digital billboard advertising and video streaming services so small businesses can take advantage of highly targeted TV audiences.

Also working under the TSM core is Texas Printers, which works with businesses for all their printing needs.

Texas Printers produces everything from a box of business cards to multipage catalogs, banners, direct mail services and more. The company also provides the flexibility of ordering quickly online and timely delivery in the Houston and Dallas markets.

Web Hosting & Design

Print Products

article continues

Greensheet C G The

Charlotte Media Group

C G Charlotte Media Group

The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

13

Inside: Health inspectors grade area restaurants • Page 2A

LOCAL MEDIA

Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group Friday, Feb. 5, 2021 • Vol. 14 • No. 6

A

The Leader is a weekly newspaper published in North Houston, Texas. It is delivered to homes in the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and surrounding areas. In addition to the most relevant headlines, the paper also shares news about local food, sports, and upcoming events. The company also publishes The Greensheet, which has weekly print editions distributed in the Greater Houston and Dallas/Fort

14

Dollar Tree has sold the Family Dollar Distribution Center for nearly $10.5 million to a private equity and real estate development firm, according to Avison Young.

Family Dollar has been part of Matthews since 1974, when it opened its headquarters off Monroe Road. Dollar Tree acquired Family Dollar in 2015 and announced in 2018 that it was closing the Matthews headquarters after consolidating store support centers to a new office tower in Chesapeake, Virginia.

The Silverman Group bought the 354,518-square-foot crossdock building, which sits on 43.5 acres. Avison Young said the sale demonstrates the momentum in the Charlotte area for infill industrial properties.

“This is an exceptional industrial location suit-

$10 OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS Cell/text: (704) 957-5458 Web: www.TheraTouchFootCare.com 165 S. Trade Street | Matthews, NC 28105 (Inside Studio 165 Salon and Spa)

ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261 justin@cmgweekly.com charlottemediagroup.org

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Mother’s Day

• Page 3A

Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group

This special edition features profiles of finalists for Charlotte Media Group's 2020 Small Business Person of the Year. Finalists were selected from a pool of community nominations. A panel of judges will evaluate finalists based on criteria that included the successful operation of the business, leadership and community contributions. We will announce a winner in the coming weeks.

Celebrate

COME CELEBRATE

Cinco de Mayo

@mmhweekly

ed for light manufacturing and warehousing with tactical last mile logistics,” said Chris Skibinski, principal of Avison Young. “Although infill industrial acquisitions in Charlotte are a rarity, the industrial sector continues to be bolstered by the ongoing upsurge of e-commerce.”

The Eastside Logistics Center, as dubbed by The Silverman Group, is for last mile distribution, Inside: At least six homes sell for over $1 million light manufacturing and other uses that will have direct impact to nearby household density areas.

“With development costs and industrial land prices on the rise in the greater Charlotte industrial market, we see great opportunities with repurposing existing second generational assets The buyer plans to keep the site industrial. Photo courtsy of Avison Young that can be acquired, improved and brought to the marketplace to rival any brand new industrial Silverman Group. “This particular asset’s infill lobuilding,” said Blake Silverman, president of The cation is irreplaceable.”

Cooper calls in-person City refinesfor strategy for proposed sales tax increase learning

Friday, Feb. 12, 2021 • Vol. 21 • No. 6

ABOUT US P.O. BOX 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 (704) 849-2261

thecharlotteweekly.com

@southcltweekly

Chief Financial Officer Kelly from Charlotte to the northern state and federal dollars.

“This is a complex and a compli- Flannery told the council Feb. 8 towns. justin@cmgweekly.com The non-transit portion of the cated task that we have before us,” that 70% of the revenue from the

by Nyamekye Daniel sales tax will go toward bus and revenue could fund projects in othMarCharlotte leaders expect to re- City Manager Contributor transit with the remaining 30% er towns, which could help create ceive an assessment from city staff at cus Jones told the going to roadway improvements as more buy-in across the county.

8. “We the end of the month as to wheth-(Thecouncil WHAT'S INSIDE: CenterFeb. Square) – On the same day leg“The county and the six town well as greenway, bike and pedestriwill be thorough er they should continue pursuing islation requiring schoolsinto resume full in-perLasHaciendasGrill.com • 281.240.3060 • 12821 SOUTHWEST FREEWAY carve-out are an important part of an projects. our assessment and a one-cent sales tax to fund longson learning started advancing in the N.C. Senthe discussion because they afford our analysis.” range mobility plans. ate, Gov. Roy Cooper said all K-12 Jonesschools inProjects would have to be staghas The city is banking on state leadthe stateCharlotte should allow in-person instruction. gered over time. The city is con- the ability for the tax to not only Did your restaurant address favorite the city's needs but all res- pass inspection? • Page 4B sidering focusingInside: on bus system beenannounced trying to gain ers allowing Mecklenburg CountyCooper Feb.consensus 2 updatedfrom guidance improvements outlined in the idents,” Flannery said. andplan its to six allow to place a referendum on the 2021 on theMecklenburg state's schoolCounty reopening Assistant City Manager Taiwo Charlotte Area Transit System's but through Jones admitted the to cityattend election ballot that asks voters students if towns, in fifth 12th grade Envision My Ride initiative as well Jaiyeoba has shown polling data to has classes to overcome truststate's issuesPlan with they support a one-cent sales tax for in-person under the B, with as the LYNX Red Line, which is a Cornelius andsocial Davidtransportation projects. smallerHuntersville, classes to allow for more distancSteven Reid was among the thousands of people to get vaccinated from Jan. 29 to at Bank Extend Fence Life commuter rail project extending sonschools dating back morefull thanclasses, 20 years. see TAX, Page 5A This will31serve as aoflocal matching. to K-5 can have and stuAmerica Stadium. Emily Barnes/Atrium Health A to Z Various Color Options BEFORE dents who want to stay home can continue rePlates of joy mote learning conducted by teachers who are at A helpful list to prep for longevity, so I'm begging you to Gagis serves up take the time to go,” Leake said. high risk for severe COVID-19 complications. summer camp, 1B smiles at Stacks, 2B Commissioner Pat Cotham “This pandemic has tested us in different Flip to Page 1B for More! said getting vaccinated was ways, but our educators and school staff have Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group somewhat emotional for her, never stopped showing up for our students,” Teen wins scholarship having received the polio vaccine Cooper said. “Our teachers haveApril worked en- • Vol. 14 • No. 14 Friday, 9,to2021 @mmhweekly for face shield initiativethecharlotteweekly.com/mmhweekly AFTER gage our students, whether remotely or in-perMecklenburg County Public trust building, which include in youth and knowing people 713-397-4477 • SOS-ASAP.com Katie Chai, 18, of son. Our custodial staff has worked to keep Health Director Gibbie Harris outreach through community who passed away from the virus.

Charlotte, was one of Commissioner Mark Jerrell schools clean and safe.” said there's still more work to leaders and town halls. two people named North Cooper ordered all K-12 schools to convert • Low-barrier vaccine ap- expressed concern for disabled do to ensure Black residents Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 47 • No. 36 • $1.00 Visit www.FortBendStar.com WEDNESDAY • APRIL 27, 2022 Carolina's top youth volto remote learning in March, during the onset are getting their COVID-19 pointments, which include free and homebound residents who unteers of 2021 by The of the pandemic. After scientific data pointed to drive-thru and walk-up options. don't have access to transportavaccinations.

City councilPrudential wantsSpirit toofwork towns but can't Com- with tion or information.

He hopes lower risks in younger children, he called for full • Targeted distribution.

The county continues to adChai No screens Divine creativity dethe county can go to people. attendance in K-5 public and charter schools • Data and monitoring. minister the vaccine to health quite wrap munity their Awards armsforaround the concept RockCommissioner out with music livering more than 106,000 face shields GOLD The county is also bracing Matchin elevates on Oct. 5. Cooper said at least 90 school disCounty Vilcare workers and people over “It would be a mistake, in my opinion, if

by Justin Vick academy, 1B to protect health care workers across 13 tricts are providing in-person the age of 65.While 26.1% of ma Leake praised the health de- for the next wave of vaccine tattoo industry, 2B FREE instruction.

Online Classes years, school district Lewis, an attorney; and

By Matt deGrood we do not look at this at a regional level, bejustin@cmgweekly.com states.

The governor cited new with research that shows the county's population over partment Feb. 2 for its outreach takers. The county is developraces might have flown Shell McClure, a truck Elizabeth MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM if we into expect another town the size of As COVID-19 began cause to spread under the radar, FBISD’s driver, squaring off to schools have kept their numbers the age of 65 are Black, only and work in getting people vac- ing a plan on distribution that ForCOVID-19 your invite, please email show up here over the next 10 As Charlotte CityMecklenburg Council continues board has become some- replace board President County inAsheville March to 2020, down despite the rising numbers in their sur16.8% of those getting the vac- cinated. Leake encouraged old- is effective, efficient and equiemoakler@ Stability or change? what acquainted with Dave Rosenthal, who or 20 obviously, they're not all going to update long-rangeChai plans for to managing began worry about heryears, parents. rounding communities. carolina.rr.com er adults, including Black res- table for front-line essential cine have identified as Black.

How do we solve the controversy in recent opted not to seek reelecfit in Charlotte,” we're not Weddington among top teams in football rankings • Page 3A growth, members areSeungjean becoming and moreJanie vocalChaitoare both doc- she said. “So ifInside: “Even with the thousands of students and teachexodus of teachers from months, exacerbated by tion.

Mecklenburg County has idents, to get the vaccine after workers once it's their turn, about the need to build the profession? What the pandemic and nators. consensus among thinking about that as the end goal – a metHarris said. ers attending school in-person across the state, we developed a COVID-19 vac- she experienced no problems.

And the Position 3 race area – then I think we're going to Mecklenburg County's “Our towns.quarantine They just hashould be done with tional talking points features longtime incumdinnerropolitan conversations One of the biggest chalhave seen few COVID-19 clusters in our public Matthews Veterans Memorial Park “Those who have some doubts cine equity plan that targets a world of hurt.” federal money for educa- about racism and LG- bent Jim Rice against ven't agreed on the best approach. mainly revolved around be ourincommunal schools," said Dr. Mandy Cohen, N.C. Departabout whether you should or lenges for the county has been four areas: tion? leaders tried to secure buy-in Councilwoman Victoria Watlington shortage asked ofCharlotte BTQ issues. challenger Rick Garcia, and nationwide PPE,” Chai ment of Health and Human Services secretary.

• Education, awareness and should not, it's imperative for availability of the vaccine.

Voters will face a host PACKING And these trustee an IT project manager. her colleagues to consider said. taking a regional earlier this year from towns like Matthews, Charlotte City Councilman Ed Driggs is perhaps the best of existential questions races have proven no difOf the two races, the Mint Hill andarPineville for a sales tax increase positioned member within the Charlotte City Council to approach to developingOne a new Meghan Tomlinson, a certified health coach and nutrition consultant, founded Upside Down Bakery with UNPACKING Gifts galore nightworkforce her father showed her an about the future of Fort ferent.

Pet them Position 7 one has been initiative called Hire Charlotte well as the her high school friends so they could enjoy sweets without the guilt. Photos courtesy of Upside Down Bakery connect with leaders from other towns as most boards Bend ISD when they vote ticle aboutasengineers in Italy who were 3D The open Position somewhat more heated, DePrater not deterred LOCAL & LONG Critter Camp is see REGIONALISM, Page 5A May 7 on two trustee po- 7 race features David city's 2040 Comprehensive Plan. lean Republican. CMG file photo printing parts for their respirators. Having by pandemic, 1B sitions.

DISTANCE MOVES hands-on, 1B Hamilton, a commercial taken some engineering classes at CharCandidates for two Fort Bend ISD board of trustees posiWhereas for many insurance agent; Orjanel Flip to page 1B for more!

SEE PREVIEW PAGE 7 Tom Williamson started Ride Again Bicycle Mintions participated in a debate last week. (Contributed photo) lotte Latin High School, she wondered Make Your Appointment Today!

Brought to you by Charlotte Media Group Bridge building program istry after serving a meal at the Community Shelter whether face shields could be made with (704) 907-1777 EARLY VOTING STARTS MAY 7TH Inside Today: Waltrip grad tabbed to lead sports board • Page 9 of Union County and learning that many residents looks at last lynching her school’s 3D printer.

Friday, teacher March 12, 2021 • Vol. 15 • No. 10 thecharlotteweekly.com/ucweekly @ucweekly had no way to get to work.

Tonya Rivens will facilitate the 11th With the help of engineering Many residents living temporarily at the Monroe Community Forum on Racial-Bridge Tom Dubick, they created a face shield Nursing Foot Care We provide a real Now thru July or 9thmore a week piecemealing transshelter spend $100 Building, called “The Carolina’s Last within three days. Five days later, they deestate experience Trimming 50% Off Entire Store to get through a week of Lynching,” with William Willimon, auportation options together driven by vision and livered 40 to a hospital. toenails (flowers and plants excluded) thor of “Who Lynched Willie Earle?” work. Sometimes they walk multiple miles each way. defined by process.

Chai ramped up production with a GoMicrowavable high-protein, low Reducing The 1947 lynching of Willie Earlethick Williamson’s mission to get people moving started FundMe campaign and begin assembling toenails by Justin Vick and the subsequent trial in South Car713.725.8748 at a men’s church retreat when a speaker talked about sugar cups help curb olina cravings Flower & Gift Shop shields with her family each night from Reducing corns Loyal support attracted international attention. justin@cmgweekly.com michael@happenhouston.com it being more important to spend time doing some- talk Love supplies bought around town. She raised Dianne Nguyen, RN, CFCS and make those things first healthier

by Karie Simmons calluses The nation's Civil Rights CommisSottile’s market thing rather than trying to be someone. fallen tree.

Will cut it up while Keaton split the MONROE – A Unionville Elementary more than $114,000 through the camto satisfysion those cravings?” said karie@cmgweekly.com formed after all-white jury exWife sacrificed for CHARLOTTE – On the eve of the $10 an OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS 10570 NW Frwy ❖ 713-680-2350 As an avid cyclist, his first plan was to repair bicycles supports community, 4B School fifth-grader and his family recently do- logs with a maul.

Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston that this month. One paign.

Tomlinson, a 29-year-old cerBy Matt deGrood onerated Earle’s confessed killers. coronarvirus vaccine being offered to Rev. Tony's Cell/text: (704) 957-5458 Tom 2A Williamson helps homeless people in Union at the shelter. That quickly segued into soliciting unused mom, Will said Keaton would come home from donated $1,000 to the Community Shelter of day, he purchased a MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM The event starts at 7 p.m. Feb. 16.

Earning a Prudential Spirit of OPEN Comcoach and nutriWhat do you do when tified health the greater public on April 7, MecklenSaturday, July 2, 2022 • Vol. 67 • No. 27 Web: www.TheraTouchFootCare.com ALSO: THIS WEEKEND! them bikes to ride to work. fake sign designating bikes, cleaning and repairing them before donating them. County save by providing Union County after performing manual labor ing the chores, eat dinner and want to lie down.

Visit www.YouTube.com/Matthewmunity Award entitles Chai to10AM a $2,500 who lives in you’re craving a double fudge tion consultant burg County Public Health shared some - NOON Community Shelter of Union County the road, Lisa Smith 165 S. Trade Street | Matthews, NC 28105 ABOUT US Williamson does all the repairs himself, but he solic- Photo courtesy ofbrownie “He didn’t have any trouble sleeping, let’s say for contributions. sUMC for details.

Galloping on scholarship, a silver medallion New and an inbut you don’t want south Charlotte.

(Inside Studio 165 Salon and Spa) Location promising statistics in terms of conElaine Brooks relives Honorway, and affixed 2020 North Loop West its donated bikes that can be repaired or sold for parts, email at RideAgainBicycle@gmail.com.

MountBakery Moriahmakes Missionary Baptist, Eleven-year-old Keaton Keyes started the that,” Will said.

27290 Waxhaw Parkway vitation to a virtual national recognition Upside Down the sugar and carbs? You eiher daughter’s final mo- the sign atop the existtrolling the spread of COVID-19.

Woof 'n Hoof store Suite 220 Matthews Presbyterian, First Baptist which underwrites part of his replacement parts cost.

His Sunday ther Schooleatclass Matthews Keaton agreed it was more labor than he was fundraiser by offering to do chores for money ing intersection. celebration in April. There,info@waxhawfarmersmarket.org 10 of the 102 microwaveable, keto-friendly ments each day. the atdouble fudgeUnited Vaccines have helped reduce the numovercomes hurdles, 3A ABOUT US (713) 686-8494 Church of Matthews, Cross & Crown Biden re-nominated Gonzalez again By year’s end, he donated 21 bikes to the shelter, Methodist Church has donated bikeguilty, locks to

By Charlotte Aguilar accustomed to. that could be donated to the shelter.

“I tried to go through It’s why the intersecstate honorees will be named America’s Keaton Keyes toured the Community Shelter of muffin, Lutheran pancake and and Matthews brown- United Methbrownie and feel or ensure ber of active outbreaks at Mecklenburg in January of this year. caguilar@mcelvypartners.com 19 to Hoskins Park Ministries, four to Roof Above security at worksites.

“We did it as a family,” Will said, “but he did Union County to see where the family’s “The first people to take me up on it were my tion of the quiet Nueces official channels, but news@theleadernews.com top youth volunteers of the year, which US Tomlinson and herP.O. BOX 1104 don’t and feel unsatisfied. ie cups. odist ABOUT Pup hub County's long-term care facilities from “I arrived at this decision after prayerare hosting the event. www.theleadernews.com Creek and the slightly nothing was moving deand eight to the Waxhaw Police Department. WilWhy does he Meghan do all this? grandparents,” Keaton said. “They told me I his share, that’s for sure. We wanted him to be contribution would go. He stands in the food NC 28106 comes with bigger prizes.

31; Tomlinson wanted a brother, Nick Wehrle, Matthews, More than a year after he was first fully considering what’s best for our naFacebook/FromTheLeader a high of 63 in late January to 11 right busier Sienna Ranch spite verbal support in Adams creates doggy P.O. BOX 1104 liamson asks anyone with an unused adult-sized bike “I like to workthird on bikes andso help could leaf blow their yard.”

COUNSELING SERVICES pantry, where shelves of shelf-stable food await The awards, conducted annually by their friend Greg Blome, 31;(704) 849-2261 option, shepeople,” and herhe said. nominated by President Biden, Harris tion, my family and the people of HarRoad means so much Fort Bend County and now, according to Deputy Healthsee DirecMatthews, NC 28106 to contact him on Facebook at @RideAgainBicycle or “I get to combine two school passions.” the next food distribution. Photo courtesy of CSUC HOMELESS, Page 5A destination, 1B Then Keaton helped his dad, Will, remove a County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez announced ris County who elected me to serve a Prudential Financial and the National AsRev. Dr. Jack Henderson, PhD high friends created and his brother Ryan Blome, to Brooks. For it’s there Missouri City for my eftor Raynard Washington. justin@cmgweekly.com (704) 849-2261 Monday that he had withdrawn from second term as sheriff,” Gonzalez wrote that Lisa Torry Smith forts,” Olson wrote. sociation of Secondary School Principals, 29, worked with a chef tocharlottemediagroup.org get Current flavors include double fudge Upside Down Bakery.

Long-term care facilities haven't reOrdained Minister & Leader’s Choice consideration to direct U.S. Immigration in a five-part Twitter thread, which folTo sate concerns was struck, along with Mecklenburg County Public Health and Mecklenburg EMS Agency make a house call to ensure a justin@cmgweekly.com honors students in fifth through 12th the recipes right. Their goal brownie, blueberry muffin and “I never want to aska people Licensed Professional ported a COVID-related death in four Consider new liftchair or scooter for your lowed a CBS News report that he had and Customs Enforcement (ICE). her 6-year-old son, about confusion, Olson homebound resident isgrades vaccinated for COVID-19.

Photos charlottemediagroup.org BEST ATTORNEY for their contributions to courtesy commu-of Mecklenburg County Counselor to give up the foods that they WHAT'S INSIDE: buttermilk maple pancake, but more weeks.

Gonzalez went through his confirma- informed Biden of his decision Sunday. while she was walking said he purchased a 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 nities through service. see BAKERY, Page 5A love, but instead how can we are in the works.

“I am grateful to President Biden for About 19.8% of Mecklenburg Countion hearing before the Senate Homehim to school in Octo- green sign – as opposed Call for Appt 5005 W. 34th Street, Suite 104A WHAT'S INSIDE: to Missouri City’s blueland Security and Governmental Affairs the honor of nominating me, and I wish ber 2017. ty residents (219,614 total), have been 832.557.0523 Legal Services The crash killed and-red signs – and Committee in July 2021, and was ap- this administration well as it strives to partially vaccinated as of April 5. About For Smith and left her son make sure the existing proved in a vote along party lines. His overcome the paralyzing political gridThe council has received concerns from the Wills, Probate 14.3% (158,974) are fully vaccinated. street signs were visseverely injured. appointment was later stalled earlier this lock that threatens far more than our Estate Planning community about the financial implications Still, Washington urges the communi“I relive that every ible. & Real Estate year following a domestic violence ac- nation’s border. Frankly, the dysfunction on any liftchair or and other impacts of renaming streets to neighFresh idea But the sign only ty to remain vigilant. single morning,” she cusation brought against him, however, threatens America’s heart and soul,” he Gonzalez borhoods and businesses. City departments are PHYLLIS A. OESER mobility scooter. said. “I am Lisa in the lasted six days before www.Mobility-More.com “Overall I would say our trends are which Gonzalez denied.

See Gonzalez P. 5 Eco-friendly detergent ATTORNEY AT LAW working together dream, and I feel that someone took it down, S T to R Afind T E grant G I E Sopportunities G R O U P fairly stable but we are starting to see gets clothes clean, 2A 713-692-0300 Olson said. hit.” offset the costs,Health Egleston A community MecklenburgtoCounty Public has said. started some concerning rises in some of those 251 N. Trade St. | Matthews, NC 28105 | Office/Faxby 704-821-7777 The former Fort Bend For as much as Smith’s they have been honored up until now.”

Justin Vick team vaccine is also available administering engagement the COVID-19 to home-to work with early indicators of increased community death has affected both County elected offiDigging Morrison Boulevardit and Governorbound Morrison residents who need support. justin@cmgweekly.com residents. transmission,” Washington told county her family and countless cial posted about the Street in south Charlotte were named after Rev. Tony shovels “I think there's agreement that it is the right others across the state matter on social meTheCamfirst eight homebound people were vaccinatcommissioners April 6. www.hartmanassociates.com Steve Poston holds the men's soccer Agreement who the2A Charlotte Legacy Com-30 asthing Charlotte is turning the page on historic figures eron Morrison, but Swe don't want it to cause hardand country, there’s no dia and, in a rare spirit some wisdom, ed March a parttoofdoa trial run.

He pointed to case counts and percent national championship trophy in 2016.

T R The A T health E G I EdeS G R O U P State leaders marker at the site itself, of bipartisanship, Fort mission identified as “a prominent leader of the from the Confederacy and white supremacists. ships for anybody whothe lives and works onshake on Photo courtesy of Wingate University Helping you Cross Bridge to Retirement partment has received over 500 requests for homeposivity rates creeping upward. While recognizing the trag- Bend County District the state The Charlotte City Council unanimously en- ‘Red Shirts,’ the paramilitary wing of school return those and streets,” said. “The city has beenplan, 2A bound vaccinations will Egleston be vaccinating those hospitalizations and deaths haven't inIt’s not just my business, edy that occurred at the Attorney Brian Middle3 QUESTIONS ANY RETIREE campaign dorsed recommendations Feb. 8 from a citizens Democratic Party’s White Supremacypeople thoughtfulwith about that to FOR make sure that it does It’s my neighborhood in partnership Mecklenburg Emercreased, Washington acknowledged Sienna intersection in ton said he would track that worked to suppress and terrorize black voters committee that recommended changing the not negatively impact them. “ Are next you interested in protecting your gency Medical Services over the several weeks.

2017. those are lagging indicators.

Former U.S. Rep. Pete Olson and Elaine Brooks, mother of Lisa Torry Smith, stand at the retirement savings from market volatility?

Regional run: Marshall is identity of streets named after white supremacists in North Carolina in the late 1890s.”The number of homebound The commission's recommendations include Former U.S. Rep. Pete intersection in Sienna where Smith died in 2017 while crossing a crosswalk. Both Olson vaccinations will vary “We have discussed and continue to among the local schools preparOlson tried to change Do you want income that you could and Brooks would like to see some memorial to Smith at the site. (Photo by Matt deGrood) Morrison became governor and day-to-day. eventually criteria for naming and Confederate leaders. streetsan and landmarks, but SEE SMITH PAGE 7 be very concerned about various variants ing for regional track meets. never outlive?

Back to class “It doesn't mean we are erasing that history,” bought up to 3,000 acres in south Charlotte, Councilman Tariq Bokhari, said he'd prefer leadPeopleaccurrently homebound due to an ongoing that are actively spreading in our comWould you bepeople. satisfied The with a reasonable Charlotte Councilman Larken Egleston said. “It doesn't cording to the commission's report. The ers not name things after SouthPark physical or mental disability and unable munity,” Washington said.

CMS resumes in-person rate are of return (4 - to 7%)travwith no downside Page 4

By Landan Kuhlmann itsa Mormean we don't teach that history. It simply Mecklenburg Library recently renamed rep said it's impossible to look at today's issues market risk? el to COVID-19 vaccination clinic can complete ceive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Each request Public health is opening additional apApproximately 1,300 staff members were vaccinated March 3 to 5 at Tyson’s Waterloo, Iowa, pork plant. landan@theleadernews.com learning, Online Library. means we don't honor those folks and the way rison branch to the SouthPark Regional throughform a future lens.

Nearly of the company’spointments U.S employees have recentlyatbeen either at onsite events or a vaccination request at Ifwww.MeckNC.gov/ will be reviewed by the county and10,000 EMS and schedon Wednesdays 8:30vaccinated a.m. these questions are important to you, possible.” the best source of informa- potentially see certain pri- the court.

By Matt deGrood call us at (704) 919 - 0149 uled based on eligibility criteria, A local business organization has through logistical an external source. Photos courtesy of Tyson Foods or call 980COVID-19. needs, Book at www.starmed.care Top 10 County records staff met tion for updates on their vate information that is In follow-up converto receive your MDEGROOD@FORTBENDSTAR.COM completed its newest efforts to improve FREE Retirement Organizer.

Residents meeting the eligibility criteria will re- vaccine supply and appointment availability. with the vendor for the specific records availabil- supposed to be redacted, sations with the Star, 314-9400.

Butler, Providence

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Clerk: Court record access should be restored by mid-summer

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Fort Bend County administrators have set a timeline that should see access to online court records returned to all residents by mid-summer, County Clerk Laura Richard told the Fort Bend Star last week.

“We understand the desire for it to all be back out there,” she said. “We know there’s a pent-up demand.

And we want to accommodate that as quickly as

court records website, a Plano-based firm called Tyler Technologies, recently and came up with the timeline that should see access restored by mid-summer if all goes according to plan, Richard said.

Officials with the company, meanwhile, declined to comment about the matter, saying they only discussed technical items with clients.

“A local administrator is

ity,” said Karen Shields, a she said. That included spokesperson for the com- social security numbers, pany. home addresses and the County officials have names of juveniles, she Your neighborhood been dealing with a glitch said. living room inThe The Heights to the court records webissue became more Serving coffee, tea, wine, beer, savories site for several months publicly-discussed in reand sweets 7 am to 9 pm daily. now, at least since 2021, cent weeks as Richard and 1030 Heights Richard said.

DistrictBlvd, Clerk Beverly McStaff first noticed Houston,TX the Grew77008 Walker released a glitch while conducting statement saying that, for 713-434-6923 a quality check after a the time being, the only software upgrade and dis- people with access to oncovering that, under the line court records would be new system, viewers could attorneys or other agents of

INSIDE.

JERRY FLOWERS

Real Estate Agent, MBA, CNE, ABE Army Veteran (RET) • 832-702-5241 Staycation Art columnist Mitch Coheh has the scoop on a tropical-themed art show.

Jerry@dreamhomesbyjerry.com Page 6

Im-Pressed Reviewer Dan Greer’s recent trip to Sunday Press left him with a good taste.

Page 6

Touching down A new prescription-only medical marijuana shop is open in the Heights.

however, both public officials vowed that the end goal was to restore access for everyone.

As it stands now, residents can view court cases online, but specific records haven’t been available as they were previously, Richard said. Residents interested in documents can, however, contact county staff to receive documents, she said.

Photo from Texas Central Facebook The Texas Supreme Court recently upheld the eminent domain rights of Texas Central in a 5-3 vote on June 24, meaning the company can legally force owners in the rail’s proposed route to sell their land.

Texas Supreme 4500 Highway 6, Court Kuhlmann Sugar Land,Bylandan@theleadernews.com TXLandan 77478

Management district unveils sidewalk, bus shelter improvements

public transportation in the area.

On Wednesday, the Near Northwest Management District and Houston METRO unveiled the completion of the West Little York Pedestrian Improvements Project, which is meant to increase pedestrian safety and multimodal transportation options along the roadway.

“We’re making it more accessible for residents to use METRO and mass transit, and demonstrating that we want people to work,” district President Wayne Norden said.

The roughly $1.7 million project involved the replacement of 16,000 linear feet of what officials characterized as “poor and/or non-existent” sidewalks on West Little York between Hollister Road and Chateau Forest Drive to aid Houston METRO’s extended bus service Route 03, which runs through the area. It also included the construction of seven new bus shelters along West Little York.

Plans for improvements began in 2015 as part of a federal Capital Improvement Plan, according to NNMD Vice President of Capital Projects EiSee NNMD P. 5

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3rant QUESTIONS FORKabab-Je ANY RETIREE (No. City, 7) and (No. 1). restaurants on been socialworking media. Readers Dallas “We’ve with Matrix Medical and East, • Inyou theinterested Mint Hill region, The Hill havehealth been voting weekly, determindepartment officials to prepareAre for this mo- in protecting your and North Bar & Grillsavings (No. 1) defeated El Valretirement ing who advance to the next mentshould and we’re ready,” said Tom Brower, senior from market volatility? le Do (No. 16), Hill (No. 8), round. want Vintner's an income that you could | youVol 46, No. 29 vice president of health andFree safety fornever Tyson Foods. outlive?

Jake's Good Eats (No. 4) and DunThis coming week, Kitch“We’re pleased to Stacks offer our team members conveWould you7). be satisfied with a reasonable (No. en faces whileOctober The wewellz 12 - 18, 2022 workers for up to four hours of regunientTexas accessRoadhouse to the vaccine, and appreciate state rate of return (4 - 7%)compensating with no downside Hill leaders Bar & Grill takes ontheNew Zea- rolemarket recognizing essential they risk? play in lar pay if they are vaccinated outside of their normal seesale.

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posed rail service outweigh its detriments,” the majority opinion reads. “…We agree with the court of appeals that the entities have eminent-domain power as interurban electric railway companies and need not address whether they also qualify as railroad companies.”

See Train P. 5

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By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

THE INDEX. Church........................................................... 4 Classifieds ................................................. 7 Coupons ...................................................... 7 Food/Drink ................................................ 6 Opinion ........................................................ 3 Public Information......................... 10 Julian Seghers

As Heights High School’s valedictorian, some might be surprised to hear that Julian Seghers doesn’t usually think he’s the smartest person in any room.

But it’s that mindset, he said, which has allowed him to excel in his academic journey. And he was rewarded for his academic efforts in recent months with a prestigious college scholarship earlier this year. In April, Seghers was named a President’s Scholar at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas.

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Contributed photo Pictured is a sign at one of the new bus shelters recently created by the Near Northwest Management District’s West Little York Pedestrian Improvement project.

gue that they’re more naturally gifted (with figuring stuff out),” Seghers said. “But having a good work ethic is just as important.”

The scholarship, which is valued at around $320,000, will cover tuition, fees, room and board, as well as study abroad and mentorship opportunities for four years at the school.

Seghers was one of just 20 incoming SMU students to receive the honor out of hundreds of applicants from around the world, which the school says is its highest academic honor based on grades, academic achievement on standardized tests, and leadership.

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The recently-graduated senior finished his high school career with a 4.9 GPA, and was a National Merit Scholar his junior year. He was also a member of Heights’ finance club, golf and tennis teams, the National HonPfififififitititi Offifitiffi or Society, and the school’s IB diploma program.

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WINGATE – Steve Poston started at Wingate Junior College as a baseball coach nearly 50 years ago and will retire at the end of this year as Wingate University's vice president and director of athletics.

Poston, 74, held so many different I get a big positions in between that his relump in my sume is four pages throat when long.

I think about “I’ve joked that all this Wingate has been coming to relentless in trying an end." to find a job I can • Steve Poston do here,” he said.

At various times a teacher, recruiter, fundraiser, coach and administrator, Poston will become an adviser to President Rhett Brown in January 2022, working part-time. Wingate will begin the search for Poston’s replacement this spring.

Under his leadership the past two decades, Wingate has won the South Atlantic Conference's Echols Award the past 13 times it’s been presented. It goes to the institution with the best overall athletics program, based on a points system.

Weddington grabs first state basketball championship

Photo from Texas Central Facebook Pictured is a conceptual rendering of the Texas High Speed Rail’s proposed Houston Station, which sits at the old Northwest Mall site near Highway 290.

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Page 9

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upholds eminent domain for bullet train

The plans for a high-speed bullet train that would take passengers from Houston to Dallas could still have some life, at least for the time being, following a ruling in the state’s highest court last week.

The Texas Supreme Court on July 24 voted 5-3 in favor of upholding the eminent domain rights of Texas Central, which is backing the planned Texas High Speed Rail between the cities. The ruling says Texas Central and Integrated Texas Logistics, Inc., have the legal right to acquire the land needed to construct the $30 billion high speed rail.

Chief Justice Nathan Hecht along with Justices Brett Busby, Jeff Boyd, Debra Lehermann and Evan Young voted in favor of upholding a state appellate court’s previous decision on June 24, according to court documents. The ruling said Texas Central and Integrated Texas Logistics Inc. can be classified as interurban electric railway companies under the Texas Transportation Code.

“The case involves the interpretation of statutes relating to eminent domain; it does not ask us to opine about whether high-speed rail between Houston and Dallas is a good idea or whether the benefits of the pro-

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We burned the ships and never looked back.”

The Warriors blew out several great teams in the state playoffs, including Huss 82-51 in the first round, Central Cabarrus 77-60 in the second, Mount Tabor 61-48 in the third and Crest 81-57 in the final four.

The undefeated season and state title were firsts for the basketball program.

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The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

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Schedule an appointment today!

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December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

Child abuse is a big and growing problem affecting our children.

- 1 in 10 children will be abused by age 18 - More than 90% of children know their abuser - 300% increase in services provided to children and families in the last 9 years

Come hear what we are doing to heal our children.

Join us the last Tuesday each month 5:30 - 7pm for “Sip & Stroll”

20,500+ children since 1991

A behind the scenes tour of Child Advocates of Fort Bend Learn about all the services provided to children and families A perfect opportunity for parents, teachers, educators, and all community members to join our fight to end the cycle of child abuse RSVP to Suzanne Slavin at 281-344-5107 or sslavin@cafb.org

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The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

17

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The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

19

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land announces

$231 million expansion From Staff Reports

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital this week announced that is expanding its campus to meet the growing needs of the region, with Fort Bend County’s population expected to reach 1 million by 2027.

Through a recently announced $231 million investment, the expansion project will include a large build-out of one of the existing towers on campus, which will add new medical/surgical beds, new universal beds, and a new neonatal intensive care unit.

20

The project will also expand catheterization lab capacity as well as key outpatient areas, including emergency department rooms, operating rooms, endoscopy suites, CT and X-ray capabilities, key ancillary areas, and parking capacity.

“Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is situated in one of the fastest growing regions in Greater Houston, and as we work to meet the health needs of our community, it is clear that we must grow alongside them,” Malisha Patel, SVP and CEO of

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and Southwest Hospitals, said in a press release. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure we can continue providing the highest-quality and most comprehensive care in the heart of Fort Bend County for all those who need us, for many years to come.”

In addition, another project scheduled to begin in early 2023 involves construction of a new five-story, 135,000 square-foot medical office building designed for a multi-tenant buildout. The expansion will also create an additional 150 jobs.

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

“Our system recognizes that we cannot realize our vision of creating healthier communities without investing in neighborhoods all across our region,” Patel said. “This is just one of the many ways that Memorial Hermann is able to best serve each and every one of our patients with ompassionate, personalized care.”

SERVICE DIRECTORY A/C AND HEATING TAURUS MECHANICAL,INC Cell (832) 731-5256 www.houstonheatingandcooling.com Taurus Mechanical, Inc. is a locally-owned business and has been serving customers in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, and Katy in the state of Texas for the last 36 years since 1986. We provide residential services. We provide Quality and Integrity in our service.

ADOPTIONS AND COUNSELING RAINBOW OF LOVE 281 438-6588 www.rainbowoflove.org Rainbow of Love is a Social Services non-profit that specializes in Adoption, Counseling and Parenting Classes. The agency was founded in Fort Bend County in 2003 and continues to have a Fort Bend office in Missouri City. The Adoption program works with families and expectant parents from all over Texas and most states of the United States. The Counseling, Parenting Classes, Case Management and Charity programs focus on local Fort Bend and Harris County communities.

ADVERTISING FORT BEND STAR 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER newspaper.

FORT BEND BUSINESS JOURNAL 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com The Fort Bend Business Journal is a monthly magazine that focuses on the business community of Fort Bend County. It is home delivered to 10,500 homes in Sugar Land and Missouri City , 500 copies to businesses in Fort Bend, and online for readers at no charge. The Business Journal features news stories about businesses, people, and events of importance to the local business community.

AUTO REPAIR / MAINTENANCE CHARLTON’S AUTO BODY Repair and Vehicle Detailing 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol.com, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping.

Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

ALTERATIONS & TAILORING LIZ’S TAILOR and ALTERATIONS 281-242-3193 www.lizstailor.com 3626 Highway 6 South (In the Luby’s/Big Lots Shopping Center) Sugar Land, TX 77478 Our Alterations Service for Ladies and Gentlemen include: Full resizing of your dress or prom to make a perfect fit; hem pants & jeans, taper in and out; shorten jacket sleeves and zipper changes. We fix your clothes at affordable prices. We offer professional tailoring. We will make your clothes from a catalog or pattern. For one-day or immediate service, please call Liz at 281-242-3193. We offer free estimates or visit us at www.lizstailor.com or email us at liz@lizstailor.com.

CHIROPRACTOR SUGAR LAND HEALTH CENTER 281-980-1050 167 Citadel Way Suite 500 Sugar Land, TX 77478

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE ALLIANCE GARAGE DOORS 832-768-1897 www.alliancegaragedoorstx.com Alliance Garage Doors has been locally owned and operated for the past 25 years in the Sugar Land/Missouri City/Richmond/ Rosenberg/Katy area. We install, repair, and sell all makes and models of garage doors and openers and provide free estimates on request. For all your garage door needs, please feel free to give us a call!

The Fort Bend Business Journal H December 2022

INSURANCE AGENCIES GOOSEHEAD INSURANCE 281-643-0996 www.gooseheadinsurance.com/ andrew-haley-insurance “Goosehead Insurance brings years of experience and expertise in serving your Auto, Home, Life & Commercial Insurance needs. As your Risk Management Advisor, Andrew Haley understands the value of safeguarding what matters most to you and will work on your behalf to bring you the best insurance options based on your individual needs. You will be met with unmatched customer service, integrity and expediency.”

AGENT TRACY WALKER ChFC, CLU, CASL, CPCU State Farm Insurance 281-265-0711

Tracy@AgentWalker.com

Tracy Walker opened her agency in 1999 and has been giving to her community ever since. Tracy and her team received the Chairman’s Circle award in 2021, recognizing their agency as one of the top 3% within State Farm. Their experience and wisdom will help you with your personal and business insurance protection to create a customized plan for you. They are conveniently located at 15510 Lexington Blvd. Ste. P Sugar Land, TX 77478

JEWELERS GOLD CONNECTION JEWELERS 281-344-9900 We Buy Gold www.goldconnection.net We are a full-service jewelry store in your neighborhood. We offer diamonds, gold and silver jewelry and watches. Repairs are done on our premises. Custom design is our specialty. We offer front door parking for your convenience. Our hours are M-F from 10:00-6:00 pm and again on Sat from 10:004:00 pm. We are located at 206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, 77406. Come see our fabulous inventory!

MACHINE TOOLS SCHOFIELD COMPANY 281-217-4799 The Schofield Company, has been in business since 1980, in Fort Bend County, specializing in American Made Machine Tools. Primary products are Wellsaw metal cutting bandsaws, made in the Kalamazoo, Michigan since 1926. Also McEnglevan, (Mifco), melting furnaces made in Danville, Illinois, for melting non-ferrous metals such as Brass, Bronze, Aluminum, Gold, and Silver. Used primarily in college art departments to make sculptures from wax art work. Contact Mike Schofield for further details.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY NETWORKING FORT BEND CHAPTER - BNI Fort Bend Business Network International, the oldest networking chapter in the Fort Bend Chapter - BNI network, is a group of like-minded business owners who meet to network every Thursday morning at 7 am we meet at Rudy’s BBQ in Richmond, TX. Membership is limited to one professional per category. However, the organization does have some open categories and is looking for entrepreneurs who want to connect with a great group of people and grow their business! For information on how to come visit, please email jsazma@fortbendstar.com THE OYSTER CREEK ROTARY CLUB www.OysterCreekRotary.org This local club has been a member of Rotary International since 1979 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to serving the Missouri City and Stafford communities. The club’s mission is to promote world peace, eradicate polio and to support various organizations within our servicing area, through our annual fund raiser. Our volunteers come from many walks of life in the business world. We welcome your visit the first Friday of every month, 12 p.m. at the City Centre, 2880 LaQuinta Dr. Missouri City, TX. 77459.

PEST CONTROL INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT, INC. 281-341-1761 1118​E. Highway 90A Richmond, TX 77406

PREGNANCY RESOURCES PREGNANCY RESOURCE MEDICAL CENTER 281-232-2375 www.prmcfortbend.org The Pregnancy Resource Medical Center is a nonprofit that helps women by offering free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, peer consultations, classes and parenting resources. We are looking for volunteers, financial partners and church liaisons to help us reach our community. You can share the joy of helping hurt hearts and saving lives. We are located at 4411 Avenue N Rosenberg, TX 77471

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REAL ESTATE COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate 281-494-4769 kolbe.curtice@colliers.com Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 & State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment and Tenant Representation, 30 years experience in Fort Bend.

JOHNSON DEVELOPMENT CORP. 713-960-9977 www.johnsondevelopment.com More top-selling communities than any other developer in America.

Larry Johnson 5005 Riverway Dr., Suite 500 Houston, TX 77056

RESTAURANTS AKI STEAK AND SUSHI 281-565-1110 www.akisteakandsushi.com 510 Highway 6, Suite #180 KING’S BBQ 832-532-7816 Kingsbbqcatering.net 9920 Hwy 90A Suite # D- 120 Sugar Land, TX 77478 LAS HACIENDAS MEXICAN BAR & GRILL 281-240-3060 LasHaciendasGrill.com 12821 Southwest Freeway Stafford, TX 77477

SCRAP DEALER/METAL RECYCLING JULIUS METALS 281-499-6400

www.juliusmetals.com 3018 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477 Julius Metals has been FT. BEND COUNTY’S LARGEST SCRAP DEALER serving Fort Bend and surrounding counties for the past 31 years. As a proud and responsible member of the Fort Bend, Texas business community, we accept aluminum, copper, brass, stainless steel, vehicle radiators, air conditioning coils, lead and other scrap metal. We seek to protect the environment through our intake and processing of scrap metal product usually destined for landfills. Our friendly staff values you as a customer and provides the VIP treatment to make your experience with us a profitable and efficient one. If you’re not selling me your metal, we both lose money!

December 2022 H The Fort Bend Business Journal

VETERINARIAN SUGAR CREEK ANIMAL CLINIC 281-242-9070 www.sugarcreekanimalclinic.com​ 14015 S.W. Freeway, Bldg. 2 Sugar Land, TX 77478

VIDEO SERVICES STAR DIGITAL STUDIOS 713-823-1145 www.starvideoproductions.com A full service video production studio providing all phases of video production including professional writing, videography, editing, DVD duplication, distribution; also video deposition services to the legal community. For video needed for a TV commercial, website posting, employee training, promotional DVDs, special presentations, coverage of live events/trade shows, or corporate videos, give us a call. If you are interested in something you do not see on our website, let us know and we’re ready to accommodate your needs!

THE M O N T H LY

BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Contact John Sazma for advertising rates

281-690-4200 jsazma@fortbendstar.com

FOCUS

Protect Financial Accounts from “Cyberthieves”

Cybercrime is booming. In 2021, the FBI reported that cybercriminals scammed nearly $7 billion from Americans — a figure slightly higher than the gross domestic product (GDP) of Switzerland for that year, according to research organization World Economics. How can you protect yourself from cyberthieves?

Here are some suggestions that can help: • Watch out for “phishing” attempts. You may receive emails that appear to be from a legitimate firm, requesting information your financial institution would never request online — confirmation of an account number, password, Social Security number, credit card number and so on. These notes can look official, often incorporating a firm’s logo, so pay close attention to what’s being asked of you.

• Think twice before clicking or downloading. If you are suspicious about a communication, don’t click on a link or download an attachment — instead, go to your financial firm’s website or use their app to verify they sent the information or request.

• Become adept with passwords.

Use a different password for each of your accounts and change your passwords regularly. Of course, maintaining multiple passwords can be confusing, so you might want to consider using password management software, which generates passwords, stores them in an encrypted database and locks them behind a master password — which is the only one you’ll need to remember.

• Use your own devices. Try to avoid using public computers or devices that aren’t yours to access your financial accounts. If you do

use another computer, clear your browsing history after you log out of your account.

• Be cautious about using WiFi when traveling. When you’re on the road, you may want to use public hotspots, such as wireless networks in airports and hotels. But many people don’t realize that these hotspots reduce their security settings to make access easier, which, in turn, makes it easier for cyberthieves to intercept your information. In fact, some hackers even build their own public hotspots to draw in internet-seekers in an effort to commit theft. So, if at all possible, wait until you can access a trusted, encrypted network before engaging in any communications or activity involving your financial accounts.

• Don’t give up control of your computer. Under no circumstances should you provide remote access to your computer to a stranger who contacts you, possibly with an offer to help “disinfect” your computer.

If you do think your device has

an issue with malicious software, contact a legitimate technician for assistance.

• Know whom you’re calling for help. If you need assistance from, say, a customer service area of a financial institution, make sure you know the phone number is accurate and legitimate — possibly one from a billing or confirmation statement.

Some people have been scammed

by Googling “support” numbers that belonged to fraudsters who asked for sensitive information.

• Review all correspondence with your financial services provider.

Keep a close eye on your account activity and statements. If you see mistakes or unauthorized activity in your account, contact your financial institution immediately. Advanced technology has brought many benefits, but also many more opportunities for financial crimes. By taking the above steps, and others that may be needed, you can go a long way toward defending yourself against persistent and clever cyberthieves.

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