THE STAR
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Wednesday, January 23, 2019 • PAGE
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George Ranch to hold inaugural rodeo in honor of black cowboys From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
Discover the enduring legacy of black cowboys in Fort Bend County history on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the inaugural George Ranch Rodeo. Featuring all the favorite rodeo events (including bull-riding, team roping and steer-riding) plus kids’ activities, entertainment, and vendors, the rodeo will be a funfilled day at the ranch like no other. “For more than 100 years, black cowboys played an essential role in Fort Bend County ranching operations. At the George Ranch specifically, four generations of black cowboys worked alongside four generations of the George family, leaving behind a rich legacy of black cowboy heritage that is unique to this part of Texas,” said Director of Programs Krystal Willeby. “The rodeo grew out of a desire to celebrate the skills and contributions of these amazing individuals.” This year’s event will showcase the history of black cowboys in Fort Bend County with a particular spotlight on
brothers James and Willie Thomas. The Thomas brothers grew up at George Ranch and, from a young age, rode anything they could – including ranch pigs. Both brothers went on to compete in professional rodeos: James rode bare back until he left the cowboy life to serve in the U.S. Army and Willie became one of the best professional bull riders of his era. (Willie’s contributions to the field have now been recognized by the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.) Debra GreenwoodSharp, a member of the Fort Bend History Association’s Board of Trustees, said she is delighted to see her uncles’ ranching and rodeo accomplishments showcased for the com-
munity. “I'm grateful – and so thankful – for the opportunity to share and raise awareness for the legacy of the many black cowboys who trail blazed through history here at the George Ranch and elsewhere in Fort Bend County,” she said. “I’m definitely tickled that my uncles played a big part in that story, but I’m also extremely honored to help preserve the legacy of the black cowboys in this part of Texas.” The rodeo will feature special guest appearances by Genet Chenier, DJ R.E.M and DJ 281. Rodeo events include bull-riding, ladies’ barrel racing,
SEE RANCH, PAGE 9
The inaugural George Ranch Rodeo will honor the legacy of black cowboys, including brothers James and Willie Thomas. James Thomas is pictured here. (Submitted photo)
A day for Mirabeau Lamar Members of the Texas Army, a Texas Revolution re-enactment group, pose in front of the grave of Mirabeau Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas, during the 2017 Lamar Day celebration in Richmond. This year’s event will take place at his gravesite in Morton Cemetery in Richmond on Friday, Jan. 25, at 10:30 a.m. (Photo by Joe Southern)
Small Business Enterprise Program to hold kickoff meeting for 2018 Bond projects From staff reports FOR THE FORT BEND STAR
Fort Bend ISD’s Small Business Enterprise Program is hosting a kickoff meeting for the 2018 Bond Program on Wednesday, Jan. 30, from 2-4 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD Triplex (550 Julie Rivers, Sugar Land). Contractors and subcontractors can learn more about the 2018 Bond Program and upcoming opportunities included in the program for small businesses. In November, Fort Bend ISD voters approved the 2018 Bond, a $992.6 million package that includes funding for the construction of new schools and classroom additions, safety and security enhancements, renovations to address maintenance and adequacy throughout the District, and transportation and technology
needs. For more information, contact the Small Business Enterprise Program
Office at 281-327-7697 or 281-327-7195, or email sbep@fortbendisd.com.
FOOT FACTS by Dr. Eric Tepper
BOARD CERTIFIED PODIATRIST, ACCPPS
GOOD FOR THE SOLE Many stores sell insoles for footwear. These premanufactured or ready-made products may provide some form of impact protection for the feet, but they are not designed to remedy the orthopedic issues of a particular foot. Since each foot is unique, each requires an insole that is specifically created to support or correct its own distinctive orthopedic problem(s). Podiatrists often prescribe custom insoles to adjust the angle at which the foot strikes a walking surface. Custom insoles are also used to relieve discomfort caused by common foot conditions such as flat feet, over-pronation, and plantar fasciitis. Each custom insole slips easily into the bottom of the appropriate shoe and provides cushioning and arch support throughout the day. HINT: Custom insoles can be removed easily from one pair of shoes and inserted into another pair of shoes. Just like individualized foot care, our custom insoles are designed to meet the specific needs of each patient who comes to us for treatment. They are the most non-invasive professional way to begin treating problems with foot mechanics. If you’re tired of painful steps taking the smile out of your day, it’s time for specialized podiatric care. For comprehensive foot care for everyone in your family, please call 281-980-3668. Our office is located at 3143 Hwy. 6 South.
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