01-20-21 Edition of the Fort Bend Star

JROTC cadets awarded scholarships - Page 2

La Madeleine provided an authentic taste of France right here in Sugar Land during a recent visit. Read our review inside today's edition on Page 8. (Photo by Zelie Morrow)

WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 20, 2021

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 45 • No. 22

Law enforcement ‘prepared’ for Inauguration Day

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

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281-690-4206 Reynolds part of push to get area teachers vaccine

In anticipation of today’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump, new Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan announced in a news conference Monday that

countywide and local law enforcement agencies will be vigilant in their deterrence of any potential violence or unlawful disruptions at local government buildings or in the general public.

Fagan said he and all local law enforcement in Fort Bend County stand in solidarity with the Capitol Police officer killed by rioters and that various agencies at the county and munici-

Fagan

pal levels will be in close contact in an effort to

snuff out any potentially dangerous activity before it occurs.

“What this ordeal proved is that law enforcement was not prepared for events such as this one,” Fagan said. “Despite plenty of warning of possible insurrection and ample resources and time to prepare, police planned only for a free speech demonstration.”

Fagan said the sheriff’s department has

canceled all time off for today and that all officers, including those that work within his investigative units, will be in uniform.

In addition, Fagan said the mobile command staff of the sheriff’s department would be ready to be deployed to assist any local law enforcement should the need arise.

SEE INAUGURATION PAGE 6

Spirit of service

By Adam Zuvanich AZUVANICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

State Rep. Ron Reynolds, one of Fort Bend County’s representatives in Austin, is among the state legislators calling for teachers and other school staff to be moved near the front of the line for COVID-19 vaccinations.

In a Jan. 14 letter addressed to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt, Reynolds and 34 other state representatives asked health authorities to include all public school employees in the group of people who can next receive the vaccine. Since the state began distributing vaccine doses last month, only frontline healthcare workers, residents of long-term care facilities and people over age 65 or with chronic medical conditions have been eligible to receive them.

The aforementioned priority group includes school nurses, school police officers and school employees who screen people for COVID-19, but not teachers and other campus staff.

"This month, teachers and students returned to the classroom after the holiday break as the number of Texans hospitalized with the coronavirus reached new records," the letter stated. "Teachers and staff will be at great risk of contracting COVID-19 and deserve the opportunity to voluntarily receive the vaccine.

We respectfully request that members of the CO-

SEE VACCINE PAGE 6

Reynolds

Volunteers from Lucille's 1913, a nonprofit started by Houston chef Chris Williams, and the Fort Bend County Black Nurses Association hand out personal protective equipment and prepared meals on Monday at Gus George Law Enforcement Academy in Richmond. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

Local groups honor legacy of civil rights pioneer

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris Williams has helped to donate over 145,000 meals in neighboring Harris County.

Although he is not a Fort Bend County resident and is still learning his way around the area, the head chef and owner of Lucille’s, a Southern

Organizations around Fort Bend County gathered Monday to perform acts of community service to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. (Photo by Stefan Modrich)

restaurant in Houston’s Museum District, has big plans for a future in Fort Bend. He found the opportunity to deliver prepared meals to those in need Monday at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy parking lot in Richmond was a fitting way for him to give back and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on the federal holiday designated for the civil rights pioneer.

Williams’ great-grandmother, Lucille B. Smith, was a renowned chef and businesswoman in Fort Worth, and she was once photographed with King during the 1960s after she prepared and served food for him.

“It’s an honor to have that kind of legacy in our family,” Williams said. “(King) set the ground-

SEE SERVICE PAGE 6

Cohesive core leading Dulles’ return to prominence

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Dulles High School girls basketball coach and alumnus Jay Simon has seen multiple Lady Vikings teams reach great heights, both before and after he graduated in 1999.

He said this year’s incarnation might be the best he has ever seen. It is led by an experienced core hungry to return

the Lady Vikings to the conversation among the state’s elite.

“My favorite part of the season so far has been winning those big games,” junior forward Dai Dai Powell said. “Just those times when people don’t have that confidence in us, but we still fight for it, get the win and prove them wrong.”

Dulles has been to four state tournaments, most recently in 2002, and has

Dulles' Nya Threatt brings the ball up the court on Saturday against George Ranch. (Photo

by Landan Kuhlmann)

the look of a team that could get back this year.

Heading into this week’s action, the Lady Vikings were 18-0 and had risen to 11th in the most recent Texas Association of Basketball Coaches rankings

SEE DULLES PAGE 6

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PAGE 2 • Wednesday,

THE STAR

January 20, 2021

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Local JROTC cadets selected Fort Bend County EMS hires mental for educational scholarships health counselor

By Landan Kuhlmann

By Landan Kuhlmann

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Three cadets at area JROTC programs recently received college scholarships to help further their training.

Dulles High School Junior Joshua Wang won a scholarship that will allow him to attend an accredited aviation university to participate in a private pilot license training program for the summer of 2021. He was one of only 230 cadets worldwide to receive the scholarship out of more than

Wang

Christopher August Meyer, Attorney at Law • • • • •

Choudhury

Telschow

1,300 applicants, according to a news release from Fort Bend ISD. Valued at about $22,500, the scholarship will cover transportation and accommodations as well as flight hours and instruction while Wang works toward a private pilot license, according to the district.

Chloe Choudhury, a senior at Dulles, received the Air Force ROTC Scholarship, which will cover full tuition and fees at any public university with an Air Force ROTC program, according to the dis-

trict. It would also cover up to $18,000 each year at a private university with an Air Force ROTC program.

Maddox Telschow, a senior at Fort Bend Christian Academy, was selected to receive the Naval Reserve Officers' Training Corps (NROTC) scholarship worth $180,000 by the U.S. Marines of Recruiting Station Houston. He was one of only six cadets in the Houston area to receive the scholarship out of more than 100 applicants, according to the school.

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Fort Bend County first responders in need of trauma counseling now have a support officer available for meetings within the department.

Fort Bend County EMS announced Jan. 15 that Curtiss Lanham has been hired as its first Peer Support Officer. In the role, Lanham will work to develop “best practice approaches to crisis and non-crisis interventions and suicide awareness and prevention” while providing a resource for counseling in the department, according to a news release from the county.

FBCEMS said Lanham’s hiring is an extension of its Mental Health and Wellness Initiative, which began contracting a department chaplain or counselor in 2018.

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"The two years since the program first began showed that progressive and pre-emptive care for employees does have a positive impact on the employees and can save those who are there to save you,” Fort Bend EMS chief Graig Temple said.

Lanham has previously worked as a paramedic and EMS educator, and has training and education as an associate pastor.

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Formerly known as the Fort Bend Newcomers Guide, the Fort Bend Star Guide is a twice a year product that serves as a guide to everyday living in our unique community. Where to go, places to see, things to do and services that are available in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford, and Fort Bend County.

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Wednesday, January 20, 2021 • PAGE

3

Olson’s tenure marked by optimism, respect for diversity You never know how or when you’ll be introduced to someone.

My first impressions of former U.S. Rep. Pete Olson were primarily formed by my reading of our editor Adam Zuvanich’s coverage of the Citgo 6 saga and Olson’s involvement in advocating for four Fort Bend County residents who have been detained by the Venezuelan government – and not much else.

When he called me last week, he was still sorting through boxes and settling back into his Sugar Land home.

I could tell from his Twitter feed that he was a big fan of the high school sports teams throughout Texas’ 22nd Congressional District, which he represented for 12 years.

But beyond that, the life and career of the Navy veteran who has resided in Sugar Land was still a mystery for me. When he began his political career as a Navy liaison in the U.S. Senate in 1996, I was little more than a year old.

After he and his wife Nancy had their first child, Kate, in 1998, Olson took some time off to be a father, and that brief sabbatical was interrupted when he was hired by Phil Gramm, John Cornyn’s predecessor in the U.S. Senate.

Stefan Modrich

Olson later became Cornyn’s chief of staff, and then threw his hat in the ring in a bid for the other chamber, the House of Representatives.

“And the rest, as they say, is history,” Olson told me.

History has a funny way of repeating itself, or rhyming, if you ask Mark Twain.

In 2007, when Olson ran for the seat from which he recently retired, Fort Bend County had a population of 506,800.

It has since grown nearly 40 percent, according to the U.S. Former U.S. Rep. Pete Olson recently helped the crossing guards at Townewest ElCensus Bureau. ementary School in Sugar Land. (Photo from Twitter) He survived a 10-person Republican primary and a national Democratic strate- “constituents,” whether they and he seems to have gone runoff election to flip what gists looking to make gains in lived in Arcola or Needville or about it in a way that resonated was considered to be one of the Lone Star State and make anywhere in between. with people across a vast and the most significant pickups of progress in their elusive quest He was proud to “take his diverse swath of Texas, even the time for the GOP. It was a to turn it blue in a presidential marching orders from ‘we the if some of his colleagues may mirror image of the 2020 elec- election. people’” and said he invited have made more politically adtion which saw a Republican Olson strikes me as a fun- anyone and everyone who vantageous choices. in Troy Nehls win the seat in a damentally decent man who resided in Texas’ 22nd ConHe spoke fondly of the heavily Democratic electorate was enthusiastic about meet- gressional District to come various ethnic and religious in the district’s most heavily- ing his “bosses” or even his sit in the chair in his office, in- holidays celebrated by the dipopulated precincts, one that “neighbors” rather than his cluding one of his Democratic verse cross-section of America was at the top of the list of opponents. that calls Fort Bend County “‘This is your chair,’” Olson home. said, recalling what he told “It wasn’t work. It was his visitors. “‘Sit in it as long pure joy to see the diversity as you like. It’s yours.’” in Fort Bend,” Olson said. “If Now there’s some lingo I you could talk to guys like hope other local elected offi- Thomas Jefferson, George cials from all parties can get Washington, John Adams, behind.

James Madison, and Alexan“My main desire was der Hamliton, and ask them to restore the faith of the almost 250 years ago, ‘What American people in their is your vision for America?’

Congress,” Olson said, cit- Real simple. It’s Fort Bend ing a 2013 poll from Public County. We’re diverse, we’re Policy Polling that found that growing, we’re educated, we more Americans preferred help each other regardless of head lice, root canals and how much you have in your The Fort Bend Junior Service League is accepting applications through Feb. 12 from colonoscopies to their elect- bank account. We help each local qualifying nonprofit organizations to be considered as a Core Placement for its ed officials in the legislative other like Texans should do.”

2021-23 league years. (Contributed photo) branch.

Olson does have some I’m far too realistic to hold regrets. He wishes he and one person to such a high his colleagues could have standard, but I think Olson’s more seriously addressed ambition was admirable, the national debt, which curFrom Staff Reports JSL. Applications and volunAs part of the process, teer organization position which occurs every two statements may be found The Fort Bend Junior years, the placement is at fbjsl.org.

Service League (FBJSL) part of FBJSL's ongoing All applications for is accepting applications mission of serving the ar- placement are due by Feb. from local qualifying ea through volunteerism 12.

501(c)(3) nonprofit orga- and charitable fundraisFor more information or nizations to be considered ing. to ask questions, commuas a "Core Placement" for Once a nonprofit has ap- nity members can contact the organization's 2021-23 plied and been approved, the FBJSL by email at league years, according to FBJSL members will be communityservice@f bjsl. a news release from FB- placed there accordingly. com.

FBJSL volunteer placement applications open

rently stands in excess of $27 trillion, according to usdebtclock.org. He had hoped to help reform Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

“I wish I could have done that, because then I could come home right now and tell my kids and grandkids, when I have the grandkids, that they’re going to be fine,” Olson said. “Right now they’re still in limbo. We have to solve this problem, and we have to solve it fairly quickly.”

Now, Olson can return to more simple pleasures, spending time with his family, and even finding joy in tasks as mundane as raking the leaves in his yard. And as he reminded me, his Twitter bio describes him as a “Devout America Optimist.”

He hopes we can channel the bipartisanship of Gramm, his old Republican boss, and West Virginia Democrat Robert Byrd, who Olson said back in their time together in the Senate “went back and forth like heavyweight fighters with words, a pure debate like our founding fathers envisioned.”

Then, Gramm took off his microphone and bee-lined toward Byrd, and Olson braced for the worst, fearing an altercation was imminent. “(Gramm) went up to (Byrd) and said, ‘My friend, that was a hell of a lot of fun, I enjoyed that. That counterpunch, that was beautiful,’ ” Olson said. “And (Byrd) replied, ‘Oh, my dear friend Phil, with all due respect.’

It was mutual admiration.

They disagreed vehemently, but didn’t argue, didn’t say the other person’s not a good American, a bad Congressman. It’s just you and I don’t agree. It’s mutual admiration.

We’ve lost that. And I hope we get that back.”

Regardless of your political views, I hope you’ll agree that we’d be better off with more people who run for office someday because they respected the demeanor and character of Pete Olson.

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Worship Directory FORT BEND COUNT Y

BAPTIST CHURCH

HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH • 281-403-4994 2223 FM1092 • Missouri City, TX 77459 John Strader , Senior Pastor Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am Sunday Worship 10:45 am 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:00 pm AWANA/Youth www.hbctx.org METHODIST CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888 A United Methodist Community 3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Sunday Worship in the Sanctuary Simple Service / Prayer & Communion: 8 am Contemporary: 9:15 am / Traditional: 10:30 am Modern: 10:30 am Sunday School for all ages available at 9:15 www.christchurchsl.org EPISCOPAL

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602 605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477 SUNDAY: 10:15 am Worship Rite Two www.allsaintsstafford.org

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STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 SUNDAY: Worship: 10:30 a.m. www.staffordchurchofchrist.org LUTHERAN CHURCH

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH, LCMS 281-242-7729 800 Brooks St., Sugar Land Sunday: 8:00 am Traditional Worship 9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Contemporary Worship (Nursery Available) 4:00 pm Spirit of Life Worship PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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502 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reverend Dr. Fred Seay, Pastor Sunday Worship In Person 11:00 am / Nursery Available Worship Online on YouTube www.fpcsl.org

Scripture of the week

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world..”

- 1 John 4:4

THE STAR

PAGE 4 • Wednesday, January 20, 2021

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@FtBendAthletics:

Elkins reclaims top spot in 20-6A basketball race

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

After a Jan. 8 loss knocked the Elkins High School boys basketball team off its perch in District 20-6A, the Knights wasted little time propping themselves back up.

Following a 2-0 week, the Knights are back atop the district standings.

It was a balanced attack for the Knights in a 78-65 win against Austin on Saturday, with four players scoring in double digits.

Shane Bell paced Elkins (11-1, 6-1 district) with 20 points, while Chris Johnson (12 points), Jacolbi Harris (16 points) and Josh Fanuiel (16 points, six rebounds) also had

strong games.

As the Dulles Lady Vikings continued their ascent in District 20-6A, multiple standout performances helped them stay undefeated. Three players scored in double digits in a 76-57 win over Austin, paced by Nya Threatt’s 23 points. Victoria Moore (19) and Peyton Overton (16) also had strong games.

In Saturday’s 55-54 victory over George Ranch, Threatt led the way with 21 points.

Bryce Griggs led the way for the Hightower boys once again last week, averaging 19 points as the Hurricanes took down Lamar Consolidated and Fulshear to improve to 11-2 overall and 10-0 in District 10-5A.

AREA STANDINGS (Through Monday)

District 20-6A (Boys) Team Elkins Travis Ridge Point George Ranch Bush Clements Austin Dulles

District Record 6-1 6-1 5-2 4-3 3-4 2-5 2-5 0-7

District 20-6A (Girls) Dulles George Ranch Ridge Point Travis Clements Elkins Austin Bush

9-0 7-2 6-2 4-4 3-5 3-6 2-6 0-9

District 24-5A (Boys) Hightower Foster Angleton Marshall Terry Lamar Consolidated Fulshear Kempner Willowridge

10-0 9-1 5-3 3-4 4-6 3-6 3-7 2-6 1-7

District 24-5A (Girls) Foster Lamar Consolidated Fulshear Angleton Hightower Kempner Terry Willowridge Marshall

11-0 10-2 7-4 7-4 6-6 3-7 2-7 2-8 0-10

District 12-4A (Boys) Stafford La Marque Brazosport Needville Columbia Bay City Sweeny

4-0 4-0 3-2 2-2 2-2 0-4 0-5

District 12-4A (Girls) Brazosport Sweeny Stafford Columbia La Marque Needville Bay City

5-0 5-1 3-1 3-2 2-4 0-5 0-5

LAST WEEK'S SCORES Boys Jan. 12 Hightower 95, Lmr. Consolidated 54 Fulshear 81, Kempner 62 Angleton 49, Willowridge 46 (OT) Stafford 71, Columbia 30 Jan. 13 Elkins 47, Travis 46 Bush 63, Ridge Point 54 Austin 61, Dulles 60 Marshall 100, Lmr. Consolidated 61 Jan. 14 Foster 68, Kempner 35 Jan. 15 Hightower 79, Fulshear 48 Foster 63, Marshall 59 Terry 51, Kempner 33 Stafford 81, Brazosport 56 Jan. 16 Travis 67, Ridge Point 59 Elkins 78, Austin 65

George Ranch 71, Dulles 49 Bush 51, Clements 40 Stafford 80, Bay City 31 Girls Jan. 12 Dulles 76, Austin 57 Angleton 62, Willowridge 13 Lmr. Consolidated 65, Hightower 52 Jan. 13 Ridge Point 68, Bush 41 Travis 52, Elkins 18 George Ranch 72, Clements 42 Jan. 15 Lmr. Consolidated 88, Willowridge 32 Hightower 61, Fulshear 51 Jan. 16 Dulles 55, George Ranch 54 Austin 40, Elkins 39 Clements 53, Bush 51

Area's top teams dominate all-district football selections

By Landan Kuhlmann

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

It was a banner year for several of the area’s high school football teams that made deep playoff runs, and many players for those teams were recently named to all-district squads for their contributions.

District 20-6A champion Ridge Point had 26 selections, highlighted by J.R. Richardson as most valuable player, Frank Osagiede as the top defensive player and Keith Jackson as offensive MVP. Second-place Travis had 16 total selections, with safety Cameron Oliver – who also played receiver and returned kicks for the Tigers – being named the district’s allpurpose player of the year.

Marshall, the District 11-5A champion and a state quarterfinalist, had 22 selections, including leading receiver Chris Marshall, tailback Rundrick Dudley and defensive backs Christian Jackson and Adari Haulcey.

In District 10-5A, Hightower had 17 selections, led by first-team offensive selections Jakolby Longino, Charles Shelling, Darian Jones and Caleb Douglass.

All-District 20-6A Austin Hunter Blanchette (2nd team offense, 2nd team defense) Keelian Bryant (2nd team offense) Marlon Chavez (2nd team offense) Justin Dillard (2nd team defense) Shahzada Durrani (1st team offense) Jamal Franklin (1st team defense) Cameron Hanley (2nd team offense) Ivan Juarez (1st team offense, 2nd team defense) Chase Myers (1st team defense) Kyler Ross (1st team offense) Joshua Tarver (1st team offense) Moses Uzodinma (2nd team defense) Luke Weaver (2nd team offense, 2nd team defense) A.J. Zilich (2nd team defense) Bush Allen Aldridge III (1st team offense) Brandon Chambers (1st team defense) Adrian Cormier (1st team offense) Preston Davis (1st team defense) Jason Ezeokwonna (1st team offense) Christopher Frazier (2nd team defense) Dantonio Hackworth (1st team defense) Javoryon Howard (2nd team offense) Nathaniel Ibarra (2nd team offense) Ikenna Nwakor (1st team offense) Kosy Okoroafor (1st team defense) Paul Omodia (2nd team defense) Clements Michael Adigwe (2nd team offense) Chase Bell (2nd team offense) Marcus Darnell (2nd team offense) Lex Demeris (2nd team offense) A.J. Henry (2nd team Defense) Dimas Kusuma (1st team offense) Lyle Link (1st team specialist) Matt McGinnis (2nd team defense) J.R. Mirelles (1st team offense, Best Newcomer)

Jakolby Longino, holding ball, was one of 17 all-district picks for Hightower. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

Brian Nzewi (2nd team offense) Dulles Ryan Alaniz (2nd team defense) Jaylen Brown (1st team defense) Alec Baldwin (2nd team defense) Myles Chapman (1st team offense) Anthony Garza (1st team offense) Devin Graham (1st team offense) Jeremiah Harrell (1st team defense) Palmer Hodges (2nd team offense) R.J. Martin (2nd team offense) Stephen Melton (1st team offense) Cameron Miller (1st team defense) Robert Raval (2nd team defense) Austin Sanchez (2nd team defense) Mason Sawyer (2nd team offense) Chris Smith (1st team defense) Louis Smith III (1st team defense) Jaxon Tilley (2nd team defense) Marc Tisdel (2nd team offense) Rashaad Young (2nd team defense) Dakota Wilcox (1st team offense) Jayden Williams (1st team defense) Elkins Taurean Crawford (1st team defense) Kole Davis (2nd team defense) Jackson Fields (2nd team offense) Christopher Harding (1st team defense) Armando Morales (2nd team offense) Lucian Paul (1st team defense) Christian Peluse (1st team defense) Jordan Robertson (2nd team offense) Malik Rugley (2nd team defense) Nick Sanders (2nd team offense) De’Cameron Sims (2nd team offense) Savion Sims (1st team defense) Daron Smith (2nd team defense) Blake Thompson (1st team defense) Nicholas Tristan (2nd team offense) Javien Young (1st team defense) Ridge Point Walker Aycock (2nd team defense) Patrick Brinkley (2nd team defense) Micah Cesar (1st team offense) Joseph Cesar (1st team defense) Clayton Cherry (2nd team defense) A.J. Colbert (1st team defense)

Taylor Davis (1st team defense) Nathan DeJesus (1st team offense) Bert Emanuel, Jr. (1st team offense) Jimmy Guy (2nd team defense) Calvin Harvey (1st team defense) Keith Jackson (1st team offense, offensive MVP) Ezell Jolley (2nd team offense) Dike Kalu (1st team defense) Austin LaFevers (1st team offense) Parker Menefee (1st team offense) Davis Mohn (1st team specialist) Jonathan Nwobodo (2nd team defense) Frank Osagiede (1st team defense, defensive MVP) Dalton Plitt (2nd team defense) Cameron Plummer (1st team defense) John Paul Richardson (1st team offense, district MVP) Caleb Rodkey (1st team offense) Karsten Stow (1st team offense) Marvin Session (2nd team offense) Zach Yovan (2nd team defense) Travis Iman Ajisefeni (1st team defense) Ayo Akinrinmade (1st team defense) Luke Alvarez (2nd team offense) Blake Brown (1st team offense) Joe Cadette (1st team defense) Marcus Chretien (1st team offense) Brandon Dixon (1st team defense) Dylan Kinney (2nd team offense) Sam Kinnick (1st team specialist) Jace Marsters (1st team defense) Cameron Moore (1st team defense) Mason Muchaw (2nd team defense) Anthony Njoku (1st team offense) Jeremiah Powell (1st team offense) Sergio Rubio (1st team specialist) Ryder Wall (1st team offense) District 11-5A Marshall Jared Baylor (1st team offense) Daryius Brown (1st team defense) Anthony Chatman (2nd team offense) Jacob Chester (1st team defense) Rundrick Dudley (1st team offense) Rodrigo Escamilla (2nd specialist) Roland Harvey (2nd team offense) Adari Haulcey (1st team defense) Christian Jackson (1st team

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defense) Robert Lopez (1st team specialist) Chris Marshall (1st team offense) Javion Matthews (1st team offense) Aaron McGowen (2nd team offense) Kenny Seymour (1st team defense) Chris Stephens (1st team defense) Kameron Square (1st team offense) Josh Ulmer (1st team offense) Lamont Vaz (1st team offense Camden Williams (2nd team offense) Christian Williams (1st team offense) Darius Williams (1st team offense) Willowridge Javion Chatman (2nd team offense) Kolby Cohen (2nd team offense) Javon Cuney (2nd team offense, 2nd team defense) Dajuan Earthly (2nd team defense) Josh Edwards (2nd team defense) Donovan Flanagan (2nd team defense) Rogelio Gonzales (1st team specialist) Je’veon Johnson (2nd team defense) Raymon Olvera (2nd team defense) Anthony Stevens (1st team defense) Jeremiah Strickland (1st team offense, 2nd team defense) Andre Williams (1st team defense) District 10-5A Hightower Donovan Allen (2nd team offense) Cameron Bradford (2nd team defense) Jaylon Davis (2nd team offense) Caleb Douglass (1st team offense) Keith Fountain (1st team defense) Lord Jeremiah Horton (1st team defense) Darian Jones (1st team offense) Kadarian Johnson (1st team defense) Jakolby Longino (1st team offense) Latrell Neville (1st team specialist, 2nd team offense) Julian Payne (1st team defense) Charles Shelling (1st team offense) Kalon Smith (1st team defense) Ronald Smith (2nd team offense) Jaden Steele (1st team offense) Jeremy Strawder (2nd team defense) Armando Ventura (2nd team specialist) Kempner McKenzie Miller (2nd team specialist) Robert Olaniyan (1st team defense) Chad Okpara (2nd team defense) Zak Yassine (2nd team defense) Umar Yaro (1st team defense) District 12-4A Stafford Brayden Batiste (2nd team offense) Jordan Barrett (2nd team offense) Isaiah Bogerty (1st team defense) Edgar Bonilla (2nd team specialist) Zach Bryant (2nd team defense) Christian Fregia (2nd team offense) Andrew Huff (2nd team defense) Jaydon Johnson (2nd team defense, 1st team offense) Terrence Lewis (2nd team offense) Nya Mack (1st team offense) Quardale Patt (1st team defense, 1st team offense) Nick Rideau (2nd team defense) Kaleb Roberts (1st team defense) Leonard Scott (2nd team offense) Kenny Steward (1st team defense) Nehemiah Tarble (1st team defense) Churchill Williams (1st team defense)

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ON-CALL OVERHEAD DOOR REPAIR SERVICES BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE Specifications and bidding documents may be obtained by registering with Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

Sealed bids in triplicate, one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read via teleconference. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered For questions regarding this bid, please post on Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com no later than 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2021.

The City will award the contract and give notice of award within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS WORKFORCE AND TARGET INDUSTRY ANALYSIS The City of Sugar Land seeks proposals for performing all work required for the following project in the City: RFP 2021-11: WORKFORCE AND TARGET INDUSTRY ANALYSIS Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering at Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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Sealed proposals, one (1) original, two (2) copies, and one (1) electronic copy on flash drive shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at which time the names of the firms submitting proposals will be read.

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Questions regarding this proposal must be received by Thursday, January 21, 2021 on or before 3:00 P.M. Please post all questions on Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

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★ SERVICE FROM PAGE 1 work for us, he’s paved the way, and afforded a lot of change. It’s great to be over here. A lot of people think this is a day to take a day off, and we find that this is a day for service, to continue the good work.”

Now, Williams is trying to forge his own legacy with the restaurant and nonprofit named after his great-grandmother.

“What we’re trying to do is build a vertically integrated ecosystem that is going to allow people the space to discover a self-sustainable lifestyle through the medium of food,” Williams said.

Shaneka Smith, the office manager for Fort Bend County Judge KP George, asked Williams and his nonprofit arm, Lucille’s 1913, to help provide approximately 1,000 meals to families in need during Monday’s drive-through events, another of which was held at Tony Becerra Park in Rosenberg.

Williams said his restaurant will create at least 60 new jobs for Fort Bend County residents, 30 of

★ VIKINGS FROM PAGE 1 for Class 6A. “For me to be back and give back to my community and lead this charge with these girls this year is special,” said Simon, who is in his fifth season as head coach. “We’ve fallen back in recent years, but we’re trying to work our way up to where we used to be. … This is one of the best teams we’ve had come through here, but we’ve still got a whole lot of work to do. We know what’s at stake.”

Leading the charge for the program’s best start in more than 10 years is an experienced group, headlined by junior Nya Threatt and senior Victoria Moore – who were both all-district picks in District 20-6A last season – as well as juniors Powell, Kaylie Johnson and Peyton Overton. All five are at least in their second varsity season, while Threatt and Powell are in their third seasons. Moore, a two-time all-district selection, has been with the Lady Vikings since her freshman year.

What stands out about this group, according to Simon, has been its bond both on and off the court.

All five have played together in either school or AAU ball since seventh grade,

Lucille B. Smith, at center in background, was part of a group that greeted Martin Luther King Jr. in Fort Worth in the 1960s. Smith’s great-grandson, Chris Williams, is a restaurateur who donated meals in Fort Bend County on Monday. (Contributed photo)

which will be Kendleton residents, and 15 each from Richmond and Rosenberg.

He has partnered with Attack Poverty, a Stafford nonprofit which will allow him to access more production kitchens to train new hires like the kitchen the organization utilizes in Richmond and another it plans to build in Rosenberg. He said he “likes to move fast” and hopes to

have the kitchens open and running by April.

“We have a lot of different nonprofits or initiatives that just want to give food to people,” Williams said.

“But it doesn’t really consider what the people want.

And it’s kind of dehumanizing. It’s like, ‘Here, you’re having a hard time, here’s some food, you’re welcome.’ I don’t think that’s enough, because these are

while Johnson and Threatt’s time as teammates dates back to elementary school.

“If it wasn’t a pandemic, we’d be at each other’s houses, going out to eat and stuff like that – just hanging out,” Threatt said.

Sixth sense All of that adds up to what Simon called an almost-telepathic connection when the group is on the court together – which is often, seeing as all are averaging at least 18 minutes per game. And during the loose yet intense environment at practice last Thursday, it was evident in just a few minutes.

“We’re able to feed off that and go off each other,” Johnson said.

Added Moore: “We don’t really have to learn anything new or adapt to someone else’s style.”

That connection is the biggest reason for the team’s hot start, according to Simon. He said it has enabled the Lady Vikins to weather storms that have wreaked both physical and mental havoc – whether it be a tight game or scheduling impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s really crazy on the mental side, because you don’t know whether the next game is going to be your last game,” he said.

“I’m trying to keep their

minds free and not think about anything else going on.”

So far, it’s come up roses on all fronts. And it was on display again last Saturday, when the Lady Vikings pulled together for a 55-54 win over George Ranch to remain undefeated after losing a second-half lead in a physical, contentious contest. Overton’s free throw with less than a second remaining was the difference.

“It makes it a lot easier for us out there – the chemistry is already there,” she said.

The 18-0 start is the Lady Vikings’ longest winning streak since another 18-game run during the 2008-09 season. Among the notable wins so far this season for the Lady Vikings include victories over 12th-ranked Shadow Creek on Nov. 24 and 15thranked Heights on Dec. 2. Dulles also took down Fort Bend ISD rival Ridge Point, the two-time defending district champion, 71-42 earlier this month.

“This is the first time they’re all on the court together playing a lot more minutes – they’ve got a sixth sense of where they need to be and where the ball needs to go. This group is way more cohesive than in the past,” Simon said. “Seeing them gel the way they have (off the court) is a huge reason for what goes on out on the court. They trust each other.”

Finish the job Multiple players as well as Simon pointed to the Nov. 24 road win against Shadow Creek as a moment when the team first realized it has the potential

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Another group received normal, non-specialized care.

At the end of the three month research, people who received medication therapy management with their pharmacist had a twenty one percent lower risk of heart problems compared to the other group. Other benefits that were seen in the intensive group included a reduction in blood pressure, a reduction in smoking, and a reduction in an important marker for the people with diabetes. Medication therapy management is a service provided by many trained pharmacists where a person’s medications are reviewed and managed to help improve overall health.

“While we pray for no unrest, we want to be prepared for anything that may rise,” Fagan said. “Although no substantiated threats have been identified, we continue to monitor for potential security concerns.”

Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton said he’d “seen enough” in terms of security bulletins received

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described, a standard African-American New Year’s meal, featuring smothered pork, cabbage, black-eyed peas, and rice. The second, Bistec ala Mexicana, included charro beans, rice, and grilled peppers.

The Fort Bend County Black Nurses Association (FBCBNA) assisted in the distribution of food as well as 500 kits of personal protective equipment to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Lola Jefferson, the founder of FBCBNA, said several of the members of her organization brought their children with them to help participate in the event. She said county officials have also asked her group to help with administering COVID-19 vaccinations.

She said she thought King would have approved of the efforts of those who volunteered their time and effort to serve their community.

“He would say, ‘This is what I’m talking about, not all this fighting and screaming, everybody getting along and getting together and helping out,’ ” Jefferson said.

Victoria Moore looks to drive to the basket last Saturday against George Ranch at Wheeler Fieldhouse in Sugar Land. Moore is part of the Lady Vikings' experienced core that drove their 18-0 start to the season. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

to author the type of season Dulles has not seen since the late 2000s. This year’s team might even accomplish more than those squads of the past.

The Lady Vikings reached three consecutive regional semifinals from 2007-09. They have not reached the state tournament in nearly two decades.

“It shows we can play and compete with anybody who steps out on the court. We’ve been the underdog going into a lot of these games,” Overton said. “So getting those wins feels pretty special -especially against ranked teams.”

However, all involved know the job is not fin-

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our elders. These are our neighbors. And that’s why we’re so specific and deliberate with the stuff that we serve because (Lucille’s 1913) is a chef-driven organization.”

He subscribes to the biblical adage of teaching one to fish rather than merely giving them a fish, and believes the skills people can learn in the kitchen can set them up for success.

“The gift of the culinary arts is that if you can cook, then you’ll always be in demand,” Williams said.

“We’re also going to train them to farm, because Kendelton’s a historic farming community and it’s kind of in the DNA of the people over there.”

One of Williams’ other aims, aside from self-sufficiency, is to help deliver in an area of systemic need: Kendleton is at least 10 miles away from the nearest grocery store, and he said its lack of available fresh produce makes it a food desert.

“We thought this would be a great way to kick off this initiative along with KP George and (Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage) who have really been leading the charge on this,” Williams said.

Recipients in Richmond, which has a strong African-American presence, and Rosenberg, which has a significant Latino population, received different meals, which “specifically speak to the palette and the life experience of two different communities,” Williams said.

The first was, as Williams

Middleton

from the federal government to warrant the actions Fagan plans to take to safeguard the areas within his jurisdiction.

“This is about prevention and preparedness,”

★ VACCINE FROM PAGE 1 VID-19 Expert Allocation Panel give all teachers and school support staff this chance so that they may continue their service as educators to the children and families of Texas."

Reynolds is the state representative for District 27, which includes Meadows Place, Missouri City, Stafford and part of Sugar Land. The biennial Texas Legislature session convened last week in Austin.

According to Fort Bend ISD's COVID-19

ished. Dulles won 22 games last season and 24 the season before, losing in the second round of the playoffs both seasons. But the Lady Vikings have also not won a district title since that 2008-09 campaign and face a grueling finish to their district slate. It is one made even tougher by the knowledge that – even more than before – they’ll get each team’s best shot.

“I’m just trying to keep them focused, which can be tough to do when you haven’t lost a game all season. We’ve got to keep with the job at hand so we can be rewarded at the end,” Simon said. “We’re the hunted at this point – people are trying to get us.

We don’t know how long

this streak is going to last.

Whether we go there or they come here (this year), it’s their Super Bowl with them looking to give us that one loss.”

By the looks of things, though, it doesn’t seem as if he will have any trouble doing so. The bond is stronger than ever as evidenced even more on Saturday when Threatt remained the team’s biggest cheerleader even after fouling out with less than a minute to play.

It’s all about finishing the job.

“A big part of it is that we just go out there and trust each other every night,” Johnson said. “We know what we have to do out there.”

Middleton said.

Fagan said county officials welcome those who will participate in peaceful demonstrations, but that there will be no tolerance for rioting, looting or vandalism.

“While we respect and will protect those who choose to exercise their first amendment right to peacefully protest, I’m asking them to do so in a respectful manner,” Fagan said. “I want to make this very clear — any criminal activity, destruction of property, violence, or threats of violence that prevent others from peacefully expressing their first

amendment right will not be tolerated.”

Fort Bend County Judge KP George said all county buildings, including those that are normally open to the public, would remain open during their normal operating hours today, and no additional restrictions beyond health guidelines already in place due to COVID-19 would be implemented.

“We wanted to send a clear message, as (Middleton) mentioned, we are prepared, but we are not stopping anything that we are doing,” George said.

dashboard, there were a total of 321 active cases throughout the school district as of Jan. 15, with 199 of those cases among students and 122 among employees. There were 123 active cases at the elementary level, 62 in middle schools and 113 at FBISD’s 11 high schools, including at least 13 cases apiece at Bush, Dulles, Kempner, Ridge Point and Travis high schools.

After starting the 2020-21 school year exclusively with remote, online learning, FBISD reopened its campuses in late September and early

October.

"Since Texas schools reopened for in-person learning, districts across the state have temporarily closed campuses after outbreaks, mourned the loss of educators and staff, and witnessed firsthand the challenges of returning to the classroom during a pandemic," stated the letter from Reynolds and other representatives. "... We stand ready to work with you to protect Texas educators and mitigate the spread of COVID-19."

Follow Adam Zuvanich on Twitter @AZuvanich

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, January 20, 2021 • PAGE

7

FBCL to host virtual Black History Month events in February From Staff Reports

Beginning on Feb. 1, the Fort Bend County Library System will host a number of special online programs celebrating the history and cultural contributions of African-Americans in the United States and Fort Bend County.

The available programs are as follows: • Before 1619: Why Black History Month matters – This Feb. 1 presentation will focus on the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people before 1619 such as religion, food, and traditions of the Igbo people, who were the ancestors of many modern African-Americans.

• A tour of AfricanAmerican cemeteries – Set for Feb. 8, this session will highlight some of the African-American cemeteries in the county, including the recently discovered burial ground in Sugar Land.

• Black History Month digital scavenger hunt – The Feb. 11 scavenger hunt will test community members’ research skills.

It can be accessed through FBCL’s website on the day of the event.

• Photography Basics – Attendees will learn how to critique photographs by master photographers to gain a better understanding of the elements on Feb. 15. The pre-recorded session will focus on works

Twanda

by African-American photographer and filmmaker Gordon Parks.

• The Prisoner-Lease system in Texas – On Feb.

18, Dr. Theresa Jach, a history professor at Houston Community College, will talk about the history of convict leasing in Texas and in other southern states between 1867 and 1912.

• ABIYOYO – In this pre-recorded video on Feb. 20, Twanda’s Theatre on Wheels, in conjunction with Young Audiences of Houston will compare and contrast African customs and traditions.

• Family-History Research: The Freedman’s Bureau Records: During this Feb. 22 session, Carol Beauchamp from FBCL’s Genealogy and Local History department will talk about Heritage Quest’s “Freedman’s Bank Re-

Sugar Land 'State of the City' address set for Feb. 19

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Much has happened in Sugar Land and its neighborhoods over the last year, on both ends of the spectrum.

In just a few weeks, city leaders will use a virtual event to reflect on the positive that has come from the past year during the annual State of the City address from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 during an event hosted by the Fort Bend County Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Joe Zimmerman and City Manager Michael Goodrum will highlight accomplishments and positive happenings in Sugar Land, and explore what the coming year holds, according to a news release.

Among the notable highlights of 2020 includ-

Zimmerman

ed: • Earning the top spot for the safest large city in Texas • The Sugar Land Skeeters being named the Houston Astros' new Triple-A franchise • The ongoing Mobility master plan that will encompass all modes of transportation, including

cords” database, which contains records from 1865-1871.

• The Skin I’m in: This livestreamed book-club meeting will discuss "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood," written by Trevor Noah.

All events are free and open to the public, and registration is required for

several of them. To view the programs or to register online at fortbend.lib. tx.us, click on “Classes & Events,” then select “Virtual Programs.” For more information, call FBCL’s Communications office at 281-633-4734.

Follow us on social media @FortBendStar

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walking, biking, driving and transit • The Texas Economic Development Council awarded Sugar Land’s Office of Economic Development (OED) with the 2020 Community Economic Development Award for Innovativeness for its Sweet Cash program • The Center for Digital Government awarded the city for its efforts in leveraging innovative information technology to enhance services and citizen experience during the pandemic Registration for the event is open.

Those interested in attending the virtual event can contact Paige Talbott at 281-566-2152 or Paige@fortbendcc. org to make reservations.

You can also RSVP online at FortBendChamber.com.

KEEP YOU MOVING without joint pain

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At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land, we know that joint pain affects every part of your life. With treatment plans customized for you, our specialists offer a full range of advanced nonsurgical and surgical techniques. Our expert joint care includes: • Innovative pain control methods • Physical therapy to improve mobility and range of motion • The latest technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that help reduce recovery time

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Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/jointpain 281.201.0396

THE STAR

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, January 20, 2021

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Review: La Madeleine offers taste of France in Sugar Land What is a visit to a French bakery without a dessert? Zelie being the expert, she chose a mini Lemon Tart ($2.09).

Small though it was, she told me the tart packed a zesty punch, and she was also impressed with the presentation and plating.

“The lemon tart was delicious, with just enough sweetness to balance out the lemon flavor without entirely drowning it out,” Zelie said. “The crust was a bit crumbly once it was broken into, but it stuck together with the curd well and overall was quite nice. It was small and cute, just fitting into the little indentation of the plate, yet just big enough to satisfy a sweet tooth.”

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

When you are the restaurant critic for a community newspaper with an ambition of exploring what are still relatively new surroundings during a global pandemic, you quickly get used to the solitude of dining alone.

It’s drawn some parallels to my former life as a sportswriter on various high school and college beats, though I was much more indiscriminate and less sophisticated with my food choices back then.

So this time, I had the chance to bring a colleague — Zelie Morrow, a senior at Elkins High School who is spending a semester with our team at the Fort Bend Star as part of Fort Bend ISD’s Mentorship program.

Her mother and grandmother are of French descent, so I thought it would be appropriate for us to check out La Madeleine, a French bakery and cafe with origins in Brest, a city in the northwest part of France. It first made its way to Texas by way of Dallas in 1983.

It’s not often I get to include additional per-

La Madeleine

Pictured is the Lemon Tart from La Madeleine in Sugar Land during a recent visit. (Photo by Zelie Morrow)

spectives into a review, particularly someone with firsthand knowledge of French cuisine and culture. So I welcomed the opportunity to have Zelie’s thoughts incorporated along with my own.

Her impressions of La Madeleine’s interior was that it resembled a place you might find in the fic-

tional Hogsmeade Village of the Harry Potter universe. She observed that it had “lots of floral art and framed wine boxes on the wall, adding to its breezy, French cafe atmosphere.”

Because most people I know who are cooks or foodies cannot seem to get enough of this word, I

decided to order the Charcuterie Sandwich ($7.99).

While not as extravagant as the wooden boards filled with expensive cheese and deli slices, my sandwich did have salami, white cheddar, cornichones (pickles), dijonnaise and spring mix greens tossed in a French vinaigrette dressing on

COMMUNITY

a fresh baguette. While I am strict and extreme in my opposition to mayonnaise when I can be bothered to scrutinize ingredients ahead of time, I made an exception for the mayo-mustard mix that was the proverbial glue that held together this simple, yet light and satisfying lunch option.

Address: 2675 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land Dining Options: Curbside pick-up, delivery via Doordash, Grubhub, Postmates, Seamless, UberEats Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily Entrée prices: $6.29 $10.49 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Healthy options: Yes Star of the show: Lemon Tart

Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to 40 words and answer the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to editor@fortbendstar.com or mail to: Fort Bend Star, 3944 Bluebonnet Drive, Stafford, Texas 77477.

CALENDAR

FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS

In light of the COVID-19 outbreak and the cancellation of several community gatherings, please check with each organization for updated information about the status of their events.

JANUARY 23 SAVE THE DATE FELICIA SMITH JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION ItÕ s back! The family-fun entertaining, challenging and fun jigsaw puzzle competition is slated for January 23, 2021. Presenting Sponsor, LearningRx Sugar Land preps for the 4th Annual Felicia Smith Jigsaw Puzzle Competition. Puzzle fanatics or first-time puzzlers, ages 10 and up, rally together to raise autism awareness until all the pieces fit. Awards and bragging rights guaranteed! Join sponsors OCuSOFT, Inc., Fort Bend Teen Service League and Robert Ò PoppyÓ Lampkin for this virtual affair! To learn more or to register your team ($125) now, visit www. hopeforthree.org/events. Limited availability.

FEBRUARY 11 FT. BEND/HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS ZOOM MEETING Ft. Bend/Harris Retired Educators next zoom meeting is Thursday morning, February 11th, at 10:00. Program: Eating Smart and Being Active presented by Krystal Wilcox with the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (TAMU and the Fort Bend Extension Service). We look forward to all our members joining us. Paid members will receive their zoom invitation a week prior to the meeting. For further information email cmduvall@aol.com.

ONGOING AMERICAN LEGION MEETINGS. Will be the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Raymond Freeman Post 0942, 311 Ulrich, 7:00

Honored to be your choice for life insurance.

LISA N SIMS, AGENT Monday - Friday 9 - 6 Saturday 10 - 2 After hours by appointment

11647 S Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Toll Free: 281-201-2448 lisa@agentlisasims.com

pm, Sugar Land, Texas.

gift-programs

THE FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR OF TEXAS P.O. Box 2042 Stafford, TX 77497-2042 Our hope is that you consider the Fort Bend Boys Choir during your holiday gift giving time. For this 2020 year only, Cares Act states your donation is 100% tax deductible! Visit our website at http:// www.fbbctx.org to make a donation. With your gift, you would play a major role in helping us achieve our goal for the New Year. 2021- We Will Sing On!

DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:45 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.).

For more information call 281-240-3195

FORT BEND SENIORS MEALS ON WHEELS SECRET SANTA The Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels is hosting a Secret Santa for Seniors Program. Gifts can be dropped off Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 1330 Band Road in Rosenberg no later than Dec. 4th. For those interested in volunteering to deliver meal and gifts to our home-bound seniors, please contact iloveseniors@fortbendseniors.org.

If you are dropping off a large amount of gifts or need to change your drop-off time, please call 281.633.7049 or email leah@fortbendseniors.org.

CIRCLE OF HOPE CHANGE A CHILD’S FUTURE For nearly a decade, local nonprofit Hope For Three Autism Advocates has provided local families with the gift Hope. The organizations gift-giving program, Circle of Hope can change a childÕ s future. Supporters select a monthly amount to give so families have access to lifechanging therapies and treatments children with autism might otherwise go without. Double your impact on Giving Tuesday, 12/1 at 7am on Facebook. Simply make a donation early and your contribution can be matched. Continue on to Double the Donation! Check to see if your employer will match your gift. Give where you live, www.hopeforthree.org/corporate-matching-

Alief MEDICAL SALES

EXCHANGE EXCHANGE, AmericaÕ s Service Club, always welcomes guests and is in search of new members! Various Fort Bend clubs exist and can accommodate early morning (7 a.m.), noon and evening meeting time desires. For more info, contact Mike Reichek, Regional Vice President, 281-575-1145 or mike@reichekfinancial.com We would love to have you join us and see what we are all about!

MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801 Meets the second Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m., at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., Missouri City Rec Center. Lunch, education, and entertainment. All seniors over 50 invited. For more information, call 713-859-5920 or 281-499-3345.

BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT Volunteers are needed to be a role model, mentor and friend to children with exceptional needs in the community. Training, mileage reimbursement, tax-free monthly stipend if eligible. Call today to help change the world, one child at a time in Rosenberg. For more information, call 281-3443515.

DAV CHAPTER 233 MONTHLY MEETING The second Tuesday of every month at the United Way Fort Bend Center, 12300 Parc Crest Dr., Stafford, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, email maw0500@gmail.com.

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