03-10-21 Edition of the Fort Bend Star

County offering childcare voucher program - Page 3

The Sugar Land Skeeters' season has been delayed by at least a month. Read about the reason for the delay and the updated schedule inside today's edition on Page 5.

WEDNESDAY • MARCH 10, 2021

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 45 • No. 29

SLPD: Homicides up, overall crime rate down

By Stefan Modrich

SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Sugar Land Crime StatiStiCS OFFENSE

We Cook! You Eat! Now offering online ordering & Curbside pick-up!

9920 Hwy 90A Suite #D-120 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-532-7816

While thefts, burglaries and the overall crime rate in Sugar Land declined to what city officials said was the “lowest on record” last year, the number of homicides in the city increased, according to a report from the Sugar Land Police Department (SLPD).

Sugar Land’s overall crime rate decreased

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

HOMICIDES

0

0

0

3

5

SEXUAL ASSAULTS

14

8

13

13

13

ROBBERIES

43

36

44

27

20

AGG. ASSAULTS

19

16

16

24

31

BURGLARIES

250

159

186

195

105

1,157

1,107

1,308

1,429

1,048

49

58

57

67

86

THEFT AUTO THEFT TOTAL (CRIME RATE)

1,532 1,384 1,624 1,758 1,308 (17.54%) (15.78%) (13.78%) (14.88%) (11.04%) SOURCE: SUGAR LAND POLICE DEPARTMENT

26 percent from 2019 to

2020. The rate is 60 per-

cent lower than the state average and 57 percent lower than the national average for 2019, according to a news release from the city.

The overall crime rate is comprised of Part 1 crimes that include homicides, sexual assaults, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries, thefts and auto thefts.

The crime rate is calculated by dividing the number of reported crimes by the total pop-

ulation of the city.

As of Monday, the state and national crime rates for 2020 had not yet been released. Sugar Land’s 2019 data was derived from the Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Crime in Texas 2019 report.

Sugar Land’s property crime rate dropped by 27 percent from 2019 to 2020, a figure that was 56 percent lower than

SEE CRIME PAGE 5

Home Cooking Lowest Rates On Electricity!

Low or No Deposit

254-312-0022 254-313-0022 Earn FREE Electricity Great Customer service, No Hassle.

Also Providing Internet, TV, Rental/Home Insurance in certain service areas!

$100 Hotel Discount Card for new applicants

(Only redeemable when dialing number listed; this is not a corporate offer)

Se Habla Español

Governor lifts mask mandate

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Effective Wednesday, businesses and facilities in Texas can open at 100 percent capacity, and Texans will no longer be mandated to wear masks in public, Gov. Greg Abbott announced last week.

Abbott issued Executive Order GA-34 on March 2, citing medical advancements of COVID-19 vaccines and antibody therapeutic drugs among his reasons for the reopening.

“Today's announcement doesn’t abandon safe practices that Texans have mastered over the past year,” Abbott said. “Instead, it’s a reminder that each person has a role to play in their own personal safety and the safety of others.”

Abbott said 7 million vaccine shots had been administered in Texas and every senior who wants a vaccine should be able to get one by the end of March.

“We continue to highly recommend wearing

Richmond resident Madiha Chughtai is shown in action during a recent episode of Food Network's "Spring Baking Championship." A home baker and local bakery owner, Chughtai is competing on the show's seventh season, which airs every Monday through March 29. (Photo from Food Network)

Richmond mother competing on Food Network show

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Madiha Chughtai and her daughter used to sit in their family home in Pakistan and watch episodes of Food Network’s “Ace of Cakes.”

Now a Richmond resident and a home baker who runs M’s Cakes & Bakes, with thousands of Facebook and Instagram followers, Chughtai is a contestant on the seventh season of Food Network’s “Spring Bak-

Abbott

Chughtai (Photo from Food Network)

foodie, she had little interest in baking, and had no for-

mal culinary training.

When she was living in the Middle East, her daughter, then 6 years old, helped spark her curiosity and ignited her passion for baking.

“She always asked me questions regarding how (certain) designs and how incorporating ingredients would turn out into those designs,” Chughtai said. “It was quality time for us because she was young, and it was mother-daughter bonding that was getting stronger and stronger.”

Though Chughtai has been in the U.S. now for about 20 years, she brings to the table a worldly perspective, having lived in Abu Dhabi for eight years in between stints in Houston before settling down in Richmond.

She said her immediate family still lives in Pakistan, with other relatives scattered throughout the Middle East and Canada.

SEE BAKING PAGE 5

Former Austin football star honoring late brother’s life

By Landan Kuhlmann

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

SEE MASKS PAGE 5

ing Championship,” which began Feb. 22. The latest episode aired Monday and runs weekly through March 29 at 8 p.m. on Food Network. It can also be streamed at discovery+.

The reality show showcases 11 competitors from across the country with spring-themed baking challenges, each of whom is battling to take home $25,000 and a spot in Food Network Magazine.

But while Chughtai had always considered herself a

Devard and Devaughn Darling always intended to pour back into the community when their dreams of making it to the NFL came to fruition.

Even though life had a different idea than the Darlings originally planned, Devard is still carrying on that passion 20 years after Devaughn’s death. From their birth with Devaughn’s hand holding on to Devard’s ankle to long af-

ter Devaughn’s passing, the twins will always be connected.

“It really started between me and Devaughn, two boys from the Bahamas dreaming of making a difference in the world once we made it to the NFL,” said Devard, who along with his brother attended Fort Bend ISD’s Austin High School before eventually going to Florida State University and Washington State University and playing in the NFL from 2004-08. “That was our whole goal and dream, to

give back to the community once we accomplished our goal.”

Devaughn died Feb. 26, 2001, during a Florida State football program off-season workout. It was determined his death was due to exertion, dehydration and Sickle Cell Trait (SCT), according to a news release from the As One Foundation.

Before Devaughn’s death, the twins did not know they had the trait. So after his passing, Devard helped start the As One Foundation in 2007 to celebrate Devaughn’s

life and educate people about the effects of SCT. The As One Foundation is in the midst of its 11th annual Darling Dash run and walk fundraiser, which will be conducted virtually through the end of March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We want to be that educational platform to the community when it comes to this,” Devard said. “It’s a huge task that we have, but that’s what we were put here

SEE HONOR PAGE 5

Devaughn (left) and Devard Darling. (Contributed photo)

JERRY FLOWERS

Real Estate Agent, MBA, CNE, ABE Army Veteran (RET) • 832-702-5241 Jerry@dreamhomesbyjerry.com

4500 Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478

PAGE 2 • Wednesday,

THE STAR

March 10, 2021

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Missouri City charity receives $1,000 donation from fellow nonprofit

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

A local charity that said it has seen an uptick in the need for its services during the COVID-19 pandemic recently re-

ceived a donation aimed at helping spread the love in Fort Bend County.

On March 3, Missouri City’s Second Mile Ministries was presented with a $1,000 check courtesy of fellow nonprofit Men For Change.

“We’re just grateful for being recognized for being here to help,” Second Mile Executive Director Sarah White said. “Their generosity was pretty overwhelming and unexpected.”

Since 1990, Second

Want the BEST DEAL for your Cable and Internet?

No Deposit!

Call Us Today for a Quick Quote!

844-560-9986

Mile has served as a food pantry and thrift clothing store for Fort Bend County families that are in poverty and crisis.

Additionally, the center offers classes and educational programming on long-term needs such as financial education, job training and financial assistance, according to its website.

The organization started in Sugar Land before moving to Stafford in 2002 and has been at its 1135 Hwy. 90 location in Missouri City since 2013.

“Pantries like ours are helping more and more people these days,” White said.

That need White alludes to is the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has plunged some of the county’s residents into a time of desperate need.

Advancement Director Sheena Abraham said the organization has food giveaways and drives Monday-Friday and one Saturday a month. Before the pandemic, Abraham said it was standard to give

From left to right, Men For Change's Will Ross, Second Mile's Sheena Abraham, Fort Bend County Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage, Second Mile's Sarah White and Men For Change's Will Willis hold up a giant check. Men For Change donated $1,000 to Second Mile. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

out more than 1 million pounds of food per year to more than 2,500 families. The food is donated by community members and the Houston Food Bank.

In 2020, she said the organization gave out more than 3 million pounds of food, and White said demand has seen a 50-60 percent year-over-year increase.

“The feedback we’re

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

Family Law

Divorce Child Custody Child Support Enforcement Modifications

Estate Planning

Chiang Law Firm, PLLC

(713) 568-9206 chris@chianglaw.com

• Wills • Trusts • Probate

Chiang Law Firm, PLLC | 1418 Lake Pointe Pkwy. | Sugar Land, TX 77478 Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

For questions, call us at 281-690-4200 or email to : Jsazma@fortbendstar.com

getting from families is that it’s just one thing after another piling up and compounding, so we’ve adjusted our services to be contact-light,” Abraham said. “And now after the winter storm we’re continuing to hear difficult stories from people.

We’re serving the best that we can.”

Men For Change President Will Ross said Fort Bend Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage brought Second Mile to their attention for efforts that also include produce giveaways around the county in areas such as Rosenberg, Four Corners, Fresno and Fulshear.

“Second Mile fills a void in this community, and not just during the pandemic but in the years before that. It was a perfect marriage. They’re going to take this donation and amplify it,” Prestage said. “It’ll have much more value after they put the love and heart and creativity into it to maximize it and help the families.”

To find out more about Second Mile’s mission and what it offers, go to secondmile.org/. For more information on Men For Change, visit men-for-change.org/.

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 • PAGE

3

Let's never forget achievements, sacrifices of women With Monday having been International Women’s Day, coinciding with March’s observance of Women’s History Month, I’m thrilled to share a story with you about one of the most influential women in my life.

When I was young, my dad would tell me stories about my grandmother and the many ways in which she shaped his life and that of his 10 siblings.

As I was in the process of gathering and archiving old clips on newspapers.com, I happened to stumble upon a syndicated Bob Greene column from Nov. 29, 1978.

Greene, a longtime Chicago Tribune columnist, had written about a woman from Mineola, New York who sued a neighboring Long

Stefan Modrich

Island town for $500,000 over what she felt was a violation of her civil rights when she had been trying to breastfeed her 2-monthold child at a community pool, despite reportedly being covered by a towel. My grandma, Harriet Modrich, was described in the article as a “counselor” of the La Leche League International, a nonprofit advocacy group that provides education and

resources for women. But she was far more than that.

She was one of the founding members of the organization since it began in 1956, and helped to lead the grassroots efforts of its inception in my hometown of Franklin Park, Illinois.

I wish I could have asked her more about this, though she died 14 years ago, and what would have been her 100th birthday is approaching in July.

Even my father was unaware of this before I told him I found the article, though no one in our family would have been surprised at what she told Greene in her defense of Barbara Damon, a woman whom she almost certainly never met and whom I have no memo-

ry of her referencing at any point.

“A woman can nurse in public If she does it discreetly,” Harriet Modrich said. “Some women feel more open about it than others. But it is a natural way of feeding a baby, the way a baby has been fed since time immemorial.”

Now, there have been decades of scientific advancement in post-natal care, and the point of this is not to argue that baby formula is wrong or that breastfeeding is superior.

I’m not the right person to make that argument, and it’s beside the point.

But the key point, as my grandma underscored, is this: “Breast-feeding a baby is not offensive. Es-

pecially with a two-piece outfit designed for nursing — a woman can nurse her baby in public — even in a place like a restaurant with a minimum of inconvenience to herself, and a minimum of commotion to arouse the attention of others. One woman was asked to leave the women’s room of another department store because another woman saw her nursing and didn’t like it.” That was the kind of person she was, selfless and always utilizing her maternal instinct not only to look out for her own children, but dedicating herself to feeding dozens of neighborhood children who were welcomed with open arms at mealtimes. Beyond that, she was also one of the founders

FBISD selects superintendent search firm

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend ISD has taken another step toward finding a replacement for Charles Dupre, the district’s outgoing superintendent.

During a special meeting on March 3, the FBISD board of trustees chose Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates as the firm to facilitate its search. The trustees did not cite the

cost of enlisting the search firm during the open session of the meeting, and the district did not respond to an inquiry about the cost by press time Tuesday.

Dupre announced last November his intent to resign by December 2021.

The district submitted a request for proposals from search firm candidates earlier this year and selected three potential candidates during a Feb. 8 workshop: Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates; J.G.

Consulting; and BWP and Associates.

The board was scheduled to meet Feb. 17 to choose a search firm, but the meeting was delayed as a result of inclement weather caused by Winter Storm Uri. "We are excited to have completed this important step of the process and look forward to working with the search firm on our nationwide search for our district’s next leader,” board president Addie

Heyliger said in a news release from FBISD. The Fort Bend Star submitted an open records request last Friday seeking the contract between FBISD and Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates as well as the bids made by the two other search firms.

The district, which has 10 days to respond to the request pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act, did not provide the requested information by press time.

County offering childcare voucher program

By Landan Kuhlmann SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Fort Bend County Commissioners Court recently approved the use of federal CARES Act funding to provide childcare assistance to local families facing financial instability as a result of COVID-19.

Using the Childcare Voucher Program, eligible Fort Bend County families can receive up to $500 per child for up to three children, according to the county.

In order to qualify for the vouchers, families must meet the following criteria: · Be a Fort Bend County resident at the time of application · Child must be under 13 years of age · Use approved voucher

ACHIEVE starts annual book program

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

ACHIEVE Fort Bend recently kicked off its 2021 summer reading fundraising campaign to help first-grade students who are struggling to read.

The annual initiative aims to help students at Title 1 schools in Fort Bend County have access to books during the summer months in efforts to keep them on track with their peers, according to a news release from the organization.

Each student identified for the program this year will receive 10 books donated by either community members or the foundation.

ACHIEVE Fort Bend said it hopes to provide books for more than 1,200 students in need this time around, after serving more than 1,000 students last year.

The organization said more than 4,000 students have benefitted from the program since its 2016 inception, and that the students served are typically from households lacking the necessary materials to improve reading level.

To donate, or for more information about ACHIEVE Fort Bend and its Summer Reading Program, community members can visit the organization’s Facebook page or email them at achievefbc@yahoo.com.

at a Texas Licensed Child Care Center/Program or Texas Licensed Child Care Home Provider located in Fort Bend County · Income has been

negatively impacted by COVID-19 · Meet the Low-toModerate Income (LMI) level criteria of 80 percent of 2019 LMI

ASK THE EXPERT

A complete list of participating providers can be found at coronavirusfortbend.gov/ community-resources/educationand-childcare-resources/ childcare-voucher-program/ childcare-voucher-providers/.

E E

Ob

of what eventually became the local park district, where my father has worked since he was a teenager.

We have in these very pages profiled women in Fort Bend County who have been courageous trailblazers, shattering glass ceilings in a variety of fields. I’m proud, though, that my grandmother was ahead of her time, and on the front lines of a feminist movement that has allowed for generations that followed to continue to pass the baton forward as we strive to resolve the persistent social inequities and many forms of discrimination that women face and to embrace them and their contributions as definitional cornerstones of our society.

itu a ry

E E

JO ANN LEONETTI

NOVEMBER 16, 1966

Jo Ann Leonetti was born on November 16, 1966 in Houston, she left this world suddenly on February, 24, 2021. Jo Ann is preceded in death by her grandparents, Joseph & Vita Sedita Leonetti, and her loving brother, Donald Leonetti. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer K. Bragg (Tyler Kahlden), mother, Rose Ann Leonetti, grandsons, Aiden & Ace Kahlden, former husband, James R. Bragg, aunt & uncle, Damon & Candi Leonetti, sister-in-law, Jennifer Leonetti, nephew, Matthew Leonetti, niece, Lauren Leonetti, cousins, Casey Leonetti (Erik Cooper), and Laura Leonetti.

E

FEBRUARY, 24, 2021

Services for Jo Ann Leonetti will be Sunday, March 14, 2021 at LifePointe Church located at 19505 Vicksburg Blvd, Missouri City, TX, 77459. Visitation will begin at 2:30 followed by a Memorial Service at 3:30 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢

Q: A:

Can a repair facility save me from paying my deductible?

An honest repair shop will always say “no” to saving deductibles. Your insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurance Chuck Charlton carrier. It basically says that if you have a collision loss, you are responsible for the first portion of repairs (your deductible) and the insurance company will pay the rest. If the final repair cost is less, you’re still responsible for the predetermined deductible amount. Any reduction should correctly go back to the insurance company. There are legitimate ways to reduce your cost. An appearance allowance (credit towards your deductible usually for minor cosmetic repairs not completed) is one way but must be consulted with your insurance company. Be wary of the repair shop that offers to save you your deductible. Are they completing all repairs or is your safety being jeopardized with an inadequate repair?

May God Bless our Men and Women in the Military

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

281-499-1126 ASK THE EXPERT

Q: A:

Why create an Estate Plan?

Legacy: The fundamental purpose of estate planning is to leave a legacy for the living.

It is not that death and Margie Connolly, taxes are unimportant, they just pale in Attorney significance to the legacy you leave behind.

Unfortunately, numerous studies show that over 50% of Americans have no estate plan, no will and no medical directives.

Why do so many people fail to properly plan for what happens at the end of their life? Simon & Garfunkel may have gotten to the heart of things in one of their songs: So I’ll continue to continue to pretend / My life will never end....

Carefully Consider Dispositions -- Can the recipients handle the assets you leave them…. Should you set up a trust to help with that?

Choose Trusted Team members – who will step into your shoes and take over paying your debts, collecting your assets, and disposing of your assets in the manner you request…

Plan Ahead - Don’t wait until it’s too late. Talk with an Estate Planning Attorney today.

Margie Connolly, Attorney mmconnollylaw@gmail.com www.mmconnollylaw.com

4610 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 200, Sugar Land, TX 77479

346-309-4236

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195

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

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

EPISCOPAL

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

Scripture of the week

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.

- Ephesians 3:20

THE STAR

PAGE 4 • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

GOT NEWS? WE WOULD LOVE TO SHARE IT.

EMAIL YOUR NEWS OR PRESS RELEASE TO EDITOR@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

OFFER ENDS SOON 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.

Spring 2021 Edition – Coming March 31, 2021 Ad deadline March 24, 2021

30,000 copies

of the guide to be delivered to readers

RECEIVE 20% DISCOUNT

when you advertise in the Spring and Fall edition of the Fort Bend Star Guide 2021.

NOT JUST A NEWSPAPER; A LOCAL, TRUSTED, BRAND. To advertise call - 281-690-4200

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 • PAGE

5

@FtBendAthletics:

Area hoops teams fall Griggs named award finalist in regional semifinals

By Landan Kuhlmann

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

It was a tough week for the area’s high school basketball teams as the three boys squads that were remaining in the UIL playoffs saw their seasons come to an end in the regional semifinals last week.

Ridge Point ran into a buzz saw in Humble Atascocita, the 12th-ranked team in Class 6A by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, losing 76-41 at Houston ISD’s Delmar Fieldhouse on March 2. The Panthers (14-6) trailed 22-10 after the first quarter and could never recover.

Senior Caleb Hill led Ridge Point with 12 points in his final high school game, while Elkins' Jacolbi Harris, right, passes the ball during a Reggie Prudhomme had eight Region III-6A semifinal against Humble Summer Creek points and Kolby Granger had on March 2 in Houston. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann) six. As the Panthers look to reload next season, they will Fanuiel scored 14 points and team’s co-leading rebounder. do so without the services grabbed seven rebounds. JaStafford, meanwhile, was of graduating seniors Hill, colbi Harris added six points denied a second straight trip Prudhomme and Luis Rodri- and nine rebounds. to the Region IV-4A final, guez along with Granger, the The seventh-ranked falling 57-50 to Somerset at team’s leading rebounder.

Knights will have some fire- Cuero High School. The SparIn the nightcap at Delmar power to replace after losing tans ended their season with Fieldhouse, Elkins lost 57-52 two of their top three scor- a 19-5 record and will lose to Humble Summer Creek to ers in Fanuiel (14 points per Xavier Iyalla, Dorian Henry bring its season to an end at game) and Shane Bell (12.3 and Daylan Presley to gradu18-2. Chris Johnson had 16 ppg) to graduation along with ation, among others, but will points, five rebounds and four Harris. However, Johnson also likely return key pieces steals to lead the Knights in will return as the team’s lead- in starters Z’Corrian Haynes a battle of two of the TABC’s ing scorer (15.7 ppg), as will and Quavious Lilly. top 15 teams, while Joshua Jackson Fields, who was the

★ BAKING FROM PAGE 1 ‘When I was in my 20s, I got inspired by the French desserts because they were very light and more into layer cakes,” Chughtai said.

“Some of my desserts taste like a Pakistani dessert, but mostly my desserts are French and American.”

One of the traditional desserts Chughtai makes at home is kheer, a rice pudding her grandmother made for her in Pakistan when she was young.

“I have her recipe, and it’s amazing,” Chughtai said. “I will definitely recommend everyone try authentic kheer, which cooks on a very low flame. You need to be very patient when you are making kheer, because it takes three to four hours

★ HONOR FROM PAGE 1 for, and we’re ready to do it.”

SCT is not a disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But having it means that a person has inherited the sickle cell gene from one of his or her parents, and it can be fatal when paired with physical exertion and dehydration.

It is a blood disorder that’s most common among African Americans, according to the CDC. However, it can also be found among people whose ancestors come from sub-Saharan Africa; South America, the Caribbean and Central America; Saudi Arabia; India; and Mediterranean countries

★ MASKS FROM PAGE 1 masks, practicing physical distancing, and implementing safety practices when going outside, and more,” Fort Bend County Judge KP George said.

According to the executive order, businesses may still limit capacity or implement additional safety protocols at their own discretion.

Fort Bend ISD officials wrote on Twitter that they would continue to require mask-wearing until the district can “further review guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Fort Bend County health officials, and the district’s medical advisor.”

As of Tuesday, the county had administered 58,440 vaccines at Fort Bend County Health and Human Services (FBCHHS) sites,

to make.”

Chughtai said the best advice she’s followed has been to “not be afraid of trying new things in life”, and she emphasizes this lesson often to her daughter and to her friends.

“Cooking has very different skills, baking has different skills and turning cooking into baking — I would recommend everyone that you should not be afraid of trying new things and do experiments and believe in yourself,” Chughtai said. “ I have no culinary experience and I'm selftaught, totally self-taught.

I only have three years of experience as a home baker and I never thought that I would be a part of a Food Network in any of my baking experiences. I feel really proud.”

such as Turkey, Greece and Italy. “(The Darling Dash) is a fun family event we do every year. Devaughn’s spirit is clearly there,” Devard said. “We definitely pride ourselves on feeling the love and feeling Devaughn’s spirit throughout all the events.”

Leaving a legacy Along with education on SCT, Devard said the spirit his twin brother exuded is the inspiration for the foundation.

He once received a letter from one of his brother’s former teachers at Austin, De Anne McGee, about how Devaughn often came to her class after morning football practice eating a honey bun – his favorite snack their senior year.

McGee had a rule that there was no food in class, per the county’s COVID-19 data hub. There have been at least 514 deaths in Fort Bend County as a result of the virus that causes COVID-19, and 49,135 people have recovered from the virus. There are 51,739 total confirmed cases in the county.

Democratic State Rep. Ron Reynolds of House District 27, which includes Stafford and Missouri City, said Abbott’s move is an effort to cover up the state’s failures to prepare for the power outages caused by Winter Storm Uri. “By lifting the mask order, the governor is trying to distract from his failures during the catastrophic blackouts last month,” Reynolds tweeted March 2. “I stand with the people of Texas, and promise to hold the governor — and everyone else involved — responsible. We cannot let the grid fail again.”

★ CRIME FROM PAGE 1 the state average and 50 percent lower than the national average for 2019, according to the news release.

While the city saw a 4 percent dip in violent crime from 2019 to 2020 (60 percent lower than the state average and 57 percent lower than the national average), the number of reported homicides increased from 3 to 5 and the number of reported sexual assaults remained at 13 for the third consecutive year.

Further analysis from the report concluded that the rate of reported assaults in Sugar Land dropped by 4 percent from 2019. Reports of and Devaughn would throw out his uneaten portion with a smile. The lesson to McGee’s students was that life is about making good choices, no matter the rule. And the fact that Devaughn always did it with a smile was just who he was, according to Devard.

“He spoke to everyone the same way, and made everyone smile,” he said. “If we were walking off the field and a freshman was walking by, he’d make that kid feel special. And they would walk away smiling knowing Devaughn just spoke to them. He just had the effect on people.”

That spirit, he said, is what he strives to continue through the As One Foundation. The foundation has given more than $100,000 in scholarships

Following another standout year on the court, one of Fort Bend County’s brightest basketball stars is in the running for the Houston region’s top boys hoops honor.

On March 2, Hightower junior guard Bryce Griggs was named as one of 10 finalists for the Guy V. Lewis Award. The award, named after the late former coach Hightower's Bryce Griggs, with ball, shown during a 2020 of the University of Hous- playoff game against Crosby, is a finalist for the 2021 Guy ton, is given annually to V. Lewis Award. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann) Greater Houston’s boys basketball player of the all record, the program’s which will be presented on first outright district title March 29. He will attempt year.

Griggs is coming off a in more than a decade to become the first Fort season in which he av- and an area-round playoff Bend ISD player to win the honor since Travis High eraged 22.6 points, 4.3 berth.

It is the second straight School alumnus Aaron rebounds and five assists per game to help lead the year Griggs has been a Harrison took it home in Hurricanes to a 17-3 over- finalist for the award, 2013.

Start of Skeeters’ season delayed Baseball fans in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County will have to wait a little while longer before seeing the sport’s return to Constellation Field.

The Sugar Land Skeeters announced March 3 that the start of Minor League Baseball’s Triple-A season – the Skeeters’ first year as the Houston Astros’ Triple-A af-

filiate – will be delayed by at least a month, according to a news release.

Originally set to start on April 8, Sugar Land’s 2021 season is now slated to begin May 6 with a six-game road series against the Albuquerque Isotopes. The Skeeters' first home game of the 2021 season will now take place on May 20 against the El Paso Chihuahuas at Constellation Field.

According to a report

from USA Today, an MLB official with knowledge of the situation said the month-long delay allows extra time during which players can receive the COVID-19 vaccine prior to the start of the season.

Previously scheduled games will not be made up, according to the release, so Sugar Land will play 60 home games as opposed to 70.

However, the Triple-A West schedule is still slated for completion on Sept. 21.

aggravated assaults saw a spike of 29 percent and reported domestic violence incidents jumped 12 percent from 2019 to 2020.

The number of recorded traffic stops in the city dropped by 35 percent from 31,935 to 20,826.

The city’s report also recorded an increase in mental health-related calls, which rose from 922 in 2019 to 1,126 in 2020. According to the city, the majority of these calls occurred after July.

The department said it was partnering with local hospitals and mental health authorities to provide resources for residents and enhancing crisis intervention training in an effort

to combat the upward trend of mental healthrelated incidents in Sugar Land.

SLPD Chief Eric Robins said the department’s priorities in 2021 will include expanding the crime prevention camera program, evaluating drones, enhancing the city’s police training program; improving its public safety training facility, and increasing visibility in the community, including through bike patrols.

Robins also listed a plan for succession and leadership development and improving communication with residents among the department’s goals.

Robins said several factors account for the city’s historically low

crime rate, including resiliency, community partnerships, public education, a commitment to technology, training and departmental leadership.

“Despite the hardships and major changes of this year, the Sugar Land Police Department has maintained excellent service to our residents,” Robins said in a news release. “COVID changed a lot about how we operate. While we saw a decrease in things like traffic stops and calls for service, SLPD increased visibility at spaces like grocery stores and parks. I am proud of the work that our department has put into making Sugar Land one of the safest cities to live in.”

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

to Fort Bend County students, according to Devard, and given presentations on its Operation Hydration program at schools throughout FBISD. Operation Hydration is an awareness campaign that provides an annual training program for high school coaches, other athletic-related staff as well as student-athletes to help with earlier awareness of the correlation between sickle cell and lack of hydration.

“The Fort Bend community has been so great to us,” said Devard, noting the family moved from the Bahamas to Fort Bend County in 1999.

“We just want to continue doing what we’re doing and support them.”

Originally set to run

A Helping Hand from

Ed’s Pharmacy

through the end of February, the virtual Darling Dash will now run through the end of March. Anyone can participate and register at asonefoundation.org/darling-dash-2021/. Registration for this year’s virtual event is $40, and people are encouraged to complete their run safely and responsibly concerning public health guidelines.

The fundraiser annually raises between $30,000-$50,000 and goes toward scholarships and education. Devard said he hopes

to see support grow in the coming years.

For more information on As One’s mission or to donate, visit its website at asonefoundation.org/.

“There are more people that need to be reached, and we want to continue to see that grow, because we’re putting that back into the community,” Devard said.

“Fort Bend has had a major impact on our lives, and we always want to give back.

(Devaughn’s) legacy will continue to live on.”

713-433-6421

14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, TX 77053 www.HoustonHumane.org

3740 Cartwright Road (@ FM 1092)

(281) 499-4555

What to do About Hives

Hives are the skin’s reaction to certain things that may cause red or white itchy patches in the skin. Chronic hives, or uticaria, occurs when the itchy patches last more than six weeks or come back every few months or years. Symptoms of this condition can include wheals on the face, arms, legs, and trunk, itching, swelling, and welts that vary in size.

Common triggers may include exposure to insects, extreme changes in the temperature, sunlight, or alcohol.

Cortisone cream can help relieve the inflammation and itching associated with mild forms of hives. Secondgeneration antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), fexafenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec) help reduce itching and do not cause as much sleepiness compared to the older antihistamines. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) may be taken to help reduce inflammation and pain.

Omalizumab (Xolair) is approved in teenagers and adults with urticaria who do not find relief with antihistamines.

Dot, 3, said, "I always have the biggest smile on my face when I meet someone new! I like to get all the attention so I prefer to be an only fur-child. I like to stop and smell all the flowers on my walks, love to play, and am gentle when taking treats."

THE STAR

PAGE 6 • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

C LASSIFIED

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

A DS

CLASSIFIED ADS THAT GET RESULTS CALL US AT 281-690-4200

HOME IMPROVEMENT

C LASSIFIED Interior and Exterior

Pressure Washing

Sheetrock Repair

CALL TO PLACE HELP WANTED ADS

281.690 4200

Painting by Tod “Where Quality Counts”

265-7134

• Great Prices • Rebates!

• Financing • Warranties

HIRE

XR 16 SYSTEM

LIMITED TIME! CALL NOW!!

Call 281-468-4250 anytime www.criticalairac.com TACLA021957E (Licensed & Insured) MNB ENTERPRISES LLC • DBA CRITICAL AIR

SERVICES

Help Me Rhonda!

Hair Designs

Private Piano Teacher

BOOK NOW

Michelle Thuy Vu

832-776-1210

Hair Stylist/ Colorist Rhonda Dickerson

michellevu2372@outlook.com

MATH/COMPUTER TUTOR Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics. Bill Stewart. BSEE 281-3411582.>+

Call for appt.

832-496-2349 LEGALS

14 yrs. exp.

281-642-1992

GARAGE SALE? LET THE COMMUNITY KNOW! 281.690.4206

CITY OF MISSOURI CITY

★★★★

★ LEGALS

Frank Garza, owner

HELPWANTED

Free Estimates

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT We're hiring detailed oriented Cleaning Technicians Please call 281.238.5762 or email Resume to sugarland@youvegotmaids.com YOU'VE GOT MAIDS OF SUGAR LAND

281-492-3450

ORDINANCE NO. O-21-11 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS, GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT AUTHORIZING THE USE OF A 2.97-ACRE TRACT OF LAND IN THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY AS A SPECIFIC USE: PLACES OF ASSEMBLY; PROVIDING LIMITATIONS, RESTRICTIONS, AND CONDITIONS ON SUCH SPECIFIC USE; AMENDING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT. I, Maria Jackson, City Secretary of the City of Missouri City, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the caption of said Ordinance No. O-21-11 approved on second and final reading by the City Council at its regular meeting held on March 1, 2021, as the same appears in the records of my office. /s/ Maria Jackson City Secretary

$30 OFF

HELP WANTED

• Warehouse Job Opening!

• Tuition assistance for students • Flexible hours for students • Top pay & benefits • Hardworking, responsible individual for shipping, receiving & shop work • HS diploma required • Some college a plus • Chance for advancement • Smoke-free environment

Tracy Walker’s State Farm Agency

BRICE COMPANY

any repair

cannot be combined with any offer TACLB019260E

APPLY TODAY!

• Stafford, Texas - Near Kirkwood & 59

is looking for an OUTSTANDING SALES AND SERVICE PERSON with sales and service experience and preferably licensed in Texas with a Property and Casualty license and a Life and Health license. We are looking for someone to specialize in our commercial sales department. You must be dependable, coachable, intelligent, caring, ethical and produce raving fans of the clients that work with you. We have an Amazing team in place and are looking for someone just as amazing to fit in with our “thriving for excellence” culture. If you are outstanding, self-motivated, determined, caring, achiever, and experienced- we would love to chat with you. Please send your resume to tracy@agentwalker.com.

This is a salaried position with commission and bonus.

Salary is based on experience and performance. We do have a 401K plan, health insurance and Paid time off.

You will have your own office within the agency.

Our office is located at 15510 Lexington Blvd Ste P Sugar Land, TX 77478

Call: 281.240.1788 Send resume: sales@bricebarclay.com

CLASS A CDL DRIVERS NEEDED Benefits Include:

• Sign on bonus of $6,500 • $5,000 safety bonus • Home daily • Pay per mile/ load • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Ins, PTO

Reynolds

• Must have Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

Call

LEGALS

Nationwide

1-888-648-3604

You can also visit our Website to fill out an application at

NOTICE TO BIDDERS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WATER MAIN REHABILITATION PROGRAM

reynoldsnw.com

LEGALS

The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WATER MAIN REHABILITATION PROGRAM CIP PROJECT NUMBER: WA2002

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS INVESTMENT BROKER DEALER SERVICES The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City:

SUGAR CREEK SUBDIVISION ULRICH STREET (FROM AVE A TO IMPERIAL RD) BROOK STREET BRIDGE CROSSING W. BELLFORT RD (FROM CABEZA DRIVE TO THE WESTERN CORNER OF 12627 W. BELLFORT RD) (Key Map 568-R&V, 569N&R, 568 V, 568-S, 569-N, 568-R & 568- N) Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUSA.com, search project name “Distribution System Water Main Rehabilitation Program – WA2002”, documents may be purchased for $75.00 in the office of the Design Engineer, located at: Sander Engineering Corporation at 2901 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 550, Houston, Texas 77042.

RFQ 2021-14: INVESTMENT BROKER DEALER SERVICES Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained by registering at 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, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 8, 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.

Notice of award of contract shall be given by the City within one hundred and twenty (120) days following the date of submittals.

LOCATION OF WORK:

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 29, 2021 via virtual meeting.

Details for attending the pre-bid meeting will be posted on CivCast www.CivCastUSA.com Questions regarding this bid must be received by 5:00 pm on or before Thursday, April 1, 2021. Please submit written questions to Erik Miller, P.E. via the question and answer section in www.

CivCastUSA.com The City Council will award the contract as provided in the Invitation to Bid. The City of Sugar Land will give notice of the contract award within sixty (60) calendar days after the opening date and time.

FOR SALE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY SMALL BUSINESS ADVISORY ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF MISSOURI CITY Authority: Pursuant to Section 3.05 of the City Charter of the City of Missouri City, the mayor of the city shall appoint special committees as instructed by the council. The City Council of the City of Missouri City instructed the mayor to establish the Small Business Advisory Committee of Missouri City on March 1, 2021.

Objectives: Pursuant to said authority and in accordance with City of Missouri City Strategic Goals 1 (create a great place to live) and 3 (grow business investments in Missouri City), Councilmember at Large, Position No. 2, Lynn Clouser, proposed the establishment of the volunteer Small Business Advisory Committee of Missouri City to review and suggest certain proposals and provide input relating to small businesses in Missouri City.

The committee will be staffed by the City Manager or his designee and the City’s Economic Development Department. The point of contact for the Small Business Advisory Committee shall be the City Manager’s Office.

Qualifications: The volunteer Small Business Advisory Committee of Missouri City will be appointed by the City Council and will consist of 15 voting members, including three (3) small business owners who own businesses located in each of Missouri City’s four (4) council districts and three (3) residents residing from anywhere in Missouri City. The term “small business” shall mean a for-profit business enterprise that is domiciled in Missouri City that meets the United States Small Business Administration size standards, as set forth in Title 13, Part 121, of the United States Code of Federal Regulations. Franchise owners will be considered small business owners.

Once constituted, the Small Business Advisory Committee will elect its own chair, vice-chair, and secretary.

To serve as a member of the committee, a person must meet the following minimum requirements: (1) be over 18 years of age; (2) may not be related, in any degree, to a member of the City Council of Missouri City or to a member of a Missouri City tax increment reinvestment zone board; and (3) may not have held a public office within the preceding one year (i.e. calendar year 2020).

Appointment Process: To apply to serve on the committee, an individual must submit an application and a resume to Missouri City at http://www.missouricitytx.gov/forms.aspx?fid=112&admin=1&userid=181 by March 15, 2021. The City Council may waive an applicant’s failure to submit a resume. By submitting an application, each applicant attests to the applicant’s eligibility. An application will not be considered and an appointed individual may be removed from the committee if the individual is later found to be ineligible. Additionally, providing false or misleading information in an application to serve on the committee will serve as grounds for removal after appointment. Membership on this committee is subject to confirmation and approval by the City Council.

The City may announce appointments to the Small Business Advisory Committee as early as April 5, 2021.

Term and Meetings: Each appointee will serve an approximately two (2)-year term, beginning on the date of appointment, and ending on the earlier of April 5, 2023, or the date on which the Small Business Advisory Committee is discontinued by the City Council. Meetings of the Small Business Advisory Committee may be scheduled on a quarterly basis and shall follow the requirements of the Texas Open Meetings Act. Rules of Procedure: The Small Business Advisory Committee may adopt rules of procedure to conduct its meetings. Each member shall disclose to the Small Business Advisory Committee whether the member has benefitted or may benefit from a matter before the Small Business Advisory Committee before any action is taken on the matter. A member making such a disclosure is required to abstain from the action.

NOW HIRING!

www.myACandHEAT.com

CITY OF MISSOURI CITY ORDINANCE NO. O-21-12 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY, TEXAS, AMENDING REGULATIONS IN PD PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 88; REGULATING AND RESTRICTING THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF PROPERTY WITHIN SUCH PD PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT; AMENDING THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP OF THE CITY OF MISSOURI CITY; PROVIDING FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT. I, Maria Jackson, City Secretary of the City of Missouri City, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the caption of said Ordinance No. O-21-12 approved on second and final reading by the City Council at its regular meeting held on March 1, 2021, as the same appears in the records of my office. /s/ Maria Jackson City Secretary

♠

Interior/Exterior Painting AT 281-690-4200Marble • Wood Flooring • Tile & grout cleaning & sealing • Laminate Wood Flooring • Granite Slab Countertops Hardie Plank Siding • Pressure Washing Call TODAY for FREE ESTIMATE Roofing • Remodeling • Carpentry 281-898-0154 Eddie Allum Fence/Fence Repair

AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING

TRANE ON SALE!

LOCAL

Bond & Insu ed red

ction Satisfanteed Guara

Insured Free Estimates References Since 1981

Tod Griffin (281)

A DS

ACE TILE House Painters Plus ADS THAT GET♠ CLASSIFIED RESULTS CALL Carpet •US Remodeling • Ceramic

Mike Schofield

281-217-5799

Sealed submittals, one (1) original, three (3) copies, and one (1) electronic copy on flash drive or CD, 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 April 1, 2021, at which time only names of the firms will be read. Submittals received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

Questions regarding this submittal must be received on or before 3:00 p.m., Monday, March 22, 2021. Please post all questions on Public Purchase www.publicpurchase.com.

INVITATION TO BID Sealed bids, in duplicate, addressed to Park at Eldridge, Inc. for Construction of Detention, Water, Sanitary Sewer, Drainage Facilities and Paving and Appurtenances to serve The Park at Eldridge in the City of Sugar Land, Texas. Located at the southwesterly corner of Eldridge Road and West Airport Blvd.

Bids will be received at the office of Beeson Properties, 1020 West Loop North, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77055, until 2:00pm, March 18, 2021, and then publicly opened and read aloud.

Questions may be addressed in person at the above address or by telephone to Tom Simmons at (713) 622-5595 no later than March 11, 2021. Plans, specifications, and bid documents may be viewed free of charge (with an option to purchase hard copies) at the office of Beeson Properties. Reproduction charges will apply. A Cashier’s Check or bid bond in the amount of 5% of the total amount of the bid must accompany each bid.

The successful bidder must furnish a payment and performance bond acceptable to the owner.

Check it out!

FOR SALE

Regional Classified Ads Call this paper to place your ad in millions of homes.

THE FOLLOWING ADS HAVE NOT BEEN SCREENED BY THE SOUTHEASTERN ADVERTISING PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION (SAPA); Therefore, any discrepancies thereof shall not be the responsibility of the aforementioned association.

Your publisher has agreed to participate in this program and run these ads as a service to the Southeastern Advertising Publishers Association.

HEALTH & MEDICAL

Attention Viagra users: Generic 100 mg blue pills or Generic 20 mg yellow pills.

Get 45 plus 5 free $99 + S/H. Guaranteed, no prescription necessary. Call 855-398-1878

INTERNET SERVICES

4G LTE Home Internet Now Available! Get GotW3 with EDUCATION / lightning fast speeds plus INSTRUCTION take your service with you Attention Active Duty & Mil‐ itary Veterans! Begin a new when you travel! As low as career and earn your Degree $109.99/mo! 866-729-7823 at CTI! Online Computer & MISCELLANEOUS Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn Eliminate gutter cleaning more, call 833-970-3466 forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking FINANCIAL gutter protection. Schedule a Over $10K in debt? Be debt FREE LeafFilter estimate tofree in 24-48 months. Pay a fraction of what you owe. A+ day. 15% off Entire Purchase.

BBB rated.

Call National 10% Senior & Military DisDebt Relief 866-949-0934. counts. Call 1-888-927-8649 ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 844606-1554 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

BATHROOM RENOVA‐ TIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers.

Call for a free in-home consultation: 877-925-9682

HughesNet Satellite Inter‐ net - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-9423256

A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR, RUNNING OR NOT!! FAST FREE PICKUP. Maximum tax deduction. Support United Breast Cancer Fdn programs.

Your car donation could save a life. 855-701-6346 COMPUTER ISSUES? GEEKS ON SITE provides FREE diagnosis REMOTELY 24/7 SERVICE DURING COVID19. No home visit necessary. $40 OFF with coupon 86407! Restrictions apply.

844-315-8054

Guaranteed Life Insurance!

(Ages 50 to 80). No medical exam. Affordable premiums never increase.

Benefits never decrease. Policy will only be canceled for nonAttention: Oxygen Users! payment. 1-866-915-2530 Gain freedom with a Portable VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills Oxygen Concentrator! No for $99. 100 pills for $150. more heavy tanks and refills!

FREE shipping. Money back Guaranteed Lowest Prices! guaranteed! 1-866-863-0142. Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 844-866-4793 GENERAC Standby Genera‐ Applying for Social Security tors provide backup power Disability or Appealing a Deduring utility power outages, nied Claim? Call Bill Gordon so your home and family stay & Assoc. Our case managers safe and comfortable. Presimplify the process & work pare now. Free 7-year ex- hard to help with your case. tended warranty ($695 Call 1-844-408-7325 FREE value!). Request a free quote Consultation. Local Attorneys today! Call for additional Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St terms and conditions. 1-833- NW, Washington DC. Office: 953-0224 Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

BATHROOM RENOVA‐ TIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers.

Call for a free in-home consultation: 877-661-6587 VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 877-266-9827

SATELLITE TV

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 7/21/21. 1-855-9777405

TIMESHARE CANCELLATION

Avoid Timeshare Cancella‐ tion Scams. Consumer protection attorney will get you a legal low flat fee cancellation for less, with a 100% money back guarantee.

TimeShareBeGone has an A+BBB rating and 5 star reviews. To request a quote, call 1-800-223-1770 or go to: outlegally.com

#trending Heal + hy THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 • PAGE

7

Area facilities continuing safety measures despite lifting of mask order Pictured is Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. (Photo courtesy of Memorial Hermann)

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Even though Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is lifting the statewide mask mandate and allowing businesses to open to full capacity, effective Wednesday, Fort Bend County’s medical facilities will not be changing the policies they have in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Memorial Hermann and Houston Methodist responded via social media following Abbott’s announcement last week, saying their respective visitor policies are remaining in place at all their facilities.

Among them are Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital at 17500 W. Grand Parkway S. and Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital at 16655 Southwest Fwy. Patients at Memorial Hermann are allowed one adult visitor per day, the health system previously announced.

Two adult visitors (age 18 and older) per patient per day are being permitted for pediatrics patients, while one adult visitor will be allowed to stay overnight for pediatrics patients as well as those in the Labor & Delivery unit.

CHI St. Luke’s, which has a Sugar Land location at 1317 Lake Pointe Pkwy., is allowing one adult visitor for non-COVID patients as well as an adult caregiver for those in labor and delivery, pedoatrics and the NICU. All will be required to wer masks.

Medical Supplies

Alief MEDICAL SALES

“We will still require masks for everyone who enters our facilities, as we believe this practice is in the best interest of our frontline workers, our patients and our community — all those we are dedicated to, and obligated to, protect,” Memorial Hermann said March 3 on Facebook.

Added Houston Methodist CEO Marc Boom: “Even if it is not mandated, as a medical professional I urge all Texans to keep wearing masks until our community is vaccinated enough that we approach herd

ASK THE EXPERT

Q: A:

immunity.”

OakBend Medical Center’s visitor policies will also remain in place for the foreseeable future. The hospital is allowing one adult visitor per day per non-COVID, non-isolation patient as well as for those in the Labor and Delivery Unit and the emergency room. For patients in Labor and Delivery, one visitor can also stay overnight. Patients under age 18 or those who are disabled, impaired or require medical assistance will be allowed one caretaker, according to the hospital, as will patients who are in OakBend’s Skilled Nursing Facility. Those who are in

hospice care or end-of-life situations will be allowed to have two visitors for a brief period.

All visitors will be required to clear a health screening upon entry and will be provided a mask to wear throughout their visit.

“Masks work. We know this from the science, and at OakBend Medical Center we know it from our own experience,” CEO Joe Freudenberger said in a March 3 video posted to OakBend’s Facebook page.

“None of our staff have gotten ill from COVID-19 from our patients despite being in direct contact with them on a daily basis.”

FEELING BLESSED

Why can’t I just buy a hearing aid on the internet?

“Reverend Canon, Owen Barker, is a member of the Missionary Society of St. Francis Assisi. He belongs to a large international organization and has been a missionary for over 40 years. ‘I’m not big on titles, just call me Owen.’ In 2014 Owen noticed something seriously wrong with his legs. He was going to a doctor for neuropathy (numbness) that started in his feet and eventually reached his thighs. It got so bad, he stopped being able to feel the brake pedal in the car. So he stopped driving. A friend recommended SLHC. Owen was getting rides from friends, family and Uber to make the appointments. After treatment Owen gained feeling back in his feet and legs, lost weight, dropped his medication substantially, began driving again and now is able to kneel on his knees for prayer again. “I want to thank everyone at SLHC, this has greatly blessed my life!” - Owen Barker

Buying a hearing aid on the internet usually results in limited success for the patient. The state of Texas prohibits mail order hearing aids. Audiologists need documentation that they fit the patient Terry Snook AuD, FAAA with a hearing aid in their office or they are in jeopardy of losing their medical license to practice Audiology.

In addition, a hearing test should be performed in a controlled environment. Audiologists are required to have their equipment calibrated each year and the hearing test has to be performed in an anechoic chamber to reduce noise levels and standing waves.

When considering fitting a hearing aid, it should be programmed precisely for a patient’s hearing loss and hearing needs. One test that should be done is real ear measurement. Real ear measurement is a test that measures sound in the patient’s ear. A microphone is placed in the patient’s ear canal and sounds are presented through a speaker. The aid can be precisely programmed while the audiologist is analyzing what the aid is doing in the patient’s ear.

Purchasing a hearing aid is a big investment and not a simple endeavor. Precision of testing and programming is of the utmost importance to obtain quality results. A patient should also be very comfortable with the audiologist they are working with since the best results are usually achieved after working closely with that person.

Advanced Hearing Center

11851-A Wilcrest Houston, TX 77031 Phone 281-530-3232 www.AliefMedicalSales.com

BARKER21STAR

www.advancedhearingcentertx.com 1223 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land, Texas 77479

281-491-0200

Providing Better Options for

HEART & VASCULAR CARE in Sugar Land

NY

CO

LO

Through specialized programs, clinical trials and a commitment to challenging conventional thinking, our comprehensive team of cardiovascular specialists is improving outcomes and providing better options for heart and vascular care in your community.

59 6

HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL

FI RST

And, you can be confident that we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe throughout your visit.

B N G TO

C

R

N XI LE

EE TW AT E

N

SW

• Heart rhythm disorders • Valve disease • Vein and artery disorders

TO W

• Adult congenital heart disease • Coronary artery disease • Heart failure

EN

TE

LV D

R

.

B

LV D

.

Our doctors specialize in treating a wide spectrum of cardiovascular diseases and disorders, including:

.

VD BL

B LV

S M LIA IL W

E AC TR

.

VD BL

D.

Sugar Land

To find a doctor or schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/debakey/sugar-land or call 713.DEBAKEY.

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Review: The Toasted Yolk Cafe offers brunchy take on crawfish season Pictured is the Zydeco Omelette at The Toasted Yolk Cafe in Sugar Land during a recent visit. (Photo

by Stefan Modrich)

By Stefan Modrich SMODRICH@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

I have lived near the Texas Gulf Coast for two years, but this spring is my first crawfish season in the Houston area.

It’s been an exciting thing to watch grocery stores and local restaurants set up their crawfish boils and release their seasonal menus in a variety of creative ways.

As I’ve gotten to learn more about the tastes of readers who have sent in feedback and continuously observing the restaurant scene across our slice of the region, it became clear to me that there are some significant seasons on the Fort Bend County foodie calendar. Despite my lack of expertise in the area of Cajun cuisine, I feel it is too expansive a genre to limit to a single review, so I will be exploring it in a series of subsequent reviews over the next few weeks. You’re always welcome to submit your crawfish or Cajun recommendations on Twitter @ StefanJModrich or through email at smodrich@fortbendstar.com.

With that PSA out of the way, let’s get back to the mat-

peppers, jalapeños and cheddar cheese and topped with a house-made remoulade sauce, a flavorful New Orleans staple.

On the side I was served a delightfully cheesy hash brown casserole (you can choose between that or grits), a biscuit and a cup of fresh fruit.

I hope Toasted Yolk comes back soon. But if you can’t wait for the Sugar Land location to reopen, you can venture out to one of its 12 other locations across the Houston area. I know I’ll be the first one in line for a Churro Donut.

ter at hand — The Toasted Yolk Cafe in Sugar Land.

While I was in the middle of writing this review and just two days after my visit, I I learned from Sugar Land Town Square’s Facebook page that Toasted Yolk would be closed until further notice to attend to an “unexpected repair.”

It was actually the Churro Donuts which immediately caught my attention at Toasted Yolk, a bright, modern spot with booth seating and a friendly vibe. While I was eager to visit a place that served breakfast all day, I made the mistake of arriving too late for one of its most famous items, as my server told me the kitchen had run out of them.

I settled for the Birthday Cake Donuts ($6) while I mulled over the rest of the menu. Of course, with their “Brunch’n Crawfish” section at the top, it was hard to miss the Zydeco Omelette ($13.50). It is stuffed with crawfish tails, onions, bell

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR

The Toasted Yolk Cafe

Address: 2110 Town Square Pl., Sugar Land Dining Options: Curbside pick-up, delivery via Doordash, Favor, Grubhub, Postmates, Seamless, UberEats Hours: 7 a.m.-3 p.m. daily Entrée prices: $6.99-$14 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Alcohol: No Healthy options: Yes Star of the show: Zydeco Omelette

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

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.

MARCH 11 FT. BEND/HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS NEXT ZOOM MEETING Thursday morning, March 11th, at 10:00.

Program: The Sugar Land 95 (leasing the work of the prisoners to private individuals or corporations 1879 - 1909). Speaker: Chassidy Olainu-Alade, FBISD's coordinator for community and civic engagement. Paid members will receive an emailed zoom invitation a week prior to the meeting.

Further information for any retired educator, email cmduvall@aol.com.

MARCH 18 LAMBDA SIGMA CHAPTER OF DELTA KAPPA GAMMA INTERNATIONAL VIRTUAL MEETING Local chapter, Lambda Sigma of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional society of leading women educators will conduct a zoom meeting Thursday, March 18th, at 5 p.m. (social 4:30).

Program: scavenger hunt game to discover members' DKG knowledge. Educators who are interested in learning more about this honor society, contact dkglsnews2020@gmail. com.

MARCH 27 SUGAR LAND INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL Step into springtime, and enjoy an entertaining day of fun activities and excitement at Sugar LandÕ s International Arts Festival as the city celebrates with a full slate of outdoor adventures from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at Brazos River Park, 18427 Southwest Freeway.

APRIL 3 THE TEMPLE EXPERIENCE Most Famous Person Living with Autism to Speak at Hope For Three Event. Dr. Temple

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

Grandin will commemorate the nonprofit’s 10th anniversary. Hope For Three will host Ô The Temple ExperienceÕ featuring Dr. Temple Grandin on Saturday, April 3, 2021, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. During the virtual event, Temple, an innovative figure in the agricultural field, prominent public speaker, author, scientist, professor, and the most well-known person in the world living with autism, will share her magnificent mind and words of wisdom through a massive online production. Tickets are $30, and watch party specials available. Find autism resources and event registration at www.hopeforthree.org APRIL 17 EXCHANGE CLUB OF SUGAR LAND’S 34TH SPAGHETTI FUNDRAISER will be held VIRTUALLY on Saturday, April 17, 2021, at 6:00 PM www.facebook.com/ sugarlandmorningexchange TEXT NOODLE TO 71777 to donate or buy Raffle tickets.

SILENT AUCTION www.32auctions.com/ Spaghetti2021. Www.ECSL.org ONGOING GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving.

Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events 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

EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 35+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY 281-243-2344 281.243.2300

14090 S.W. Freeway Suite #200 Sugar Land, TX

(Direct)

(Main) • KenWoodPC.com

which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195 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 713-8595920 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 281-344-3515.

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.

Alief MEDICAL SALES

SHORT TERM WHEELCHAIR RENTALS AVAILABLE

Buy a pair of COMPRESSION TRAVEL SOCKS and get the 2nd pair

11851-A Wilcrest Houston, TX 77031 Phone 281-530-3232 • www.AliefMedicalSales.com

20% OFF

“Magic Donuts melt in your mouth” Store Hours Monday - Sunday: 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Tel: 281-242-1881 907 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

11555 West Airport, Meadows Place, Texas, 77477 • 281-277-3367

Daily SpecialS! Open 7 DayS a week

Dine-In Open!

TAKE-OUT & CATERING

AVAILABLE

18 years

family owned and operated LUNCH SPECIALS HOME MADE TAMALES & TORTILLAS MARGARITA’S TO-GO!

SOUTHWEST FREEWAY 281.240.3060 12821 LasHaciendasGrill.com

HIRELOCAL • SHOPLOCAL • EATLOCAL