3-25-2020 Edition of the Fort Bend Star

Dulles decathlon team shines at state - Page 6

Several of the area's high school basketball players garnered all-region honors from the Texas Association of Basketball coaches. Read more inside today's edition on Page 4. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

WEDNESDAY • MARCH 25, 2020

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 83

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

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COVID-19 testing sites open in Houston region

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Medical personnell in protective equipment prepare to test for COVID-19 on Thursday in the parking lot of United Memorial Medical Center, 510 W. Tidwell Rd. in Houston.

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Multiple COVID-19 testing sites are now open in the Houston area.

Legacy Community Health is administering COVID-19 tests at three Houston locations: 3811 Lyons Ave., 1415 California St., and 6441 High Star Dr., which is about 10 miles from the Fort Bend County line. For more information, call 832-548-5000.

According to Houston

Public Media, My Family Doctor at 6430 Hillcroft Ave. has a drive-through testing facility open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, visit covid19drivethru.com.

MD Anderson Diagnostic Imaging at 6602 Mapleridge St. is offering COVID-19 tests for patients and employees, according to Houston Public Media.

A privately operated free testing site that is open to

the public opened Thursday at United Memorial Medical Center at 510 W. Tidwell Rd. The drivethrough location was scheduled to be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

The City of Houston’s first COVID-19 testing site opened Friday, and Harris County opened two more FEMA-sponsored locations last weekend.

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Rosenberg bans bus drop-offs inside its city

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

On Thursday, Rosenberg Mayor William Benton signed an order restricting drop-off access from commercial buses within the city limits.

A news release from the city said the order is in response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Fort Bend County. Officials with Fort Bend County Health & Human Services announced Monday that the county’s number of confirmed cases of the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus had risen to 42.

“The order serves to prevent the spread of this potentially devastating disease in our community by limiting the access and ingress to the City of Rosenberg for the safety of individuals,” the city said.

According to the order, resi-

SEE ROSENBERG PAGE 6

Fort Bend County Judge KP George addresses reporters during a recent news conference about COVID-19. Over the weekend, George extended the county's local disaster declaration while making additional commercial restrictions that run through April 3. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

George expands restrictions, extends disaster declaration

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend County Judge KP George announced Saturday night that he has extended the county’s disaster declaration through April 3 and widened the restrictions for businesses amidst the COVID-19 outbreak in the county.

The amended declaration includes the required closure of all gyms, fitness centers or any establishment used for training, martial arts or any sports, according to a news release from the county. All hair and nail salons, massage and tattoo parlors, spas,

tancing policies could be coming after George's counterpart in Harris County, Lina Hidalgo, issued a stayat-home order Tuesday morning.

Fort Bend County Health & Human Services announced via Twitter on

nightclubs, lounges, taverns, arcades and private clubs are still ordered to remain closed within both incorporated and unincorporated parts of the county.

“Community spread is occurring throughout the Houston region. Community members need to follow the social distancing ordinances issued by local, regional, and state leaders seriously,” Fort Bend County Health & Human Services Director Jacquelyn Johnson-Minter said in a news release. “They are in place to help keep our most vul-

SEE RESTRICTIONS PAGE 8

County provides disinfecting solution to residents

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Benton

movie theaters, game rooms and bingo halls have also been ordered to close. The county is also restricting access to county buildings to essential personnel or those with court obligations or required payments.

Even stricter social dis-

Monday that the county’s number of cases of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus, had risen to 42.

“We must slow the spread of COVID-19 to make sure our limited ICU facilities in the region do not get overwhelmed,” George said in a news release. “We also cannot risk our medical staff or first responders getting infected.”

Restrictions remain in place for restaurants and microbreweries, microdistilleries and wineries, which have been ordered to only provide takeout, delivery and drive-through services. Additionally, bars,

Elected officials in Fort Bend County recently did their part in trying to help slow the spread of COVID-19 ahead of a potential rise in cases as testing becomes more widely available in the Houston region.

Fort Bend County Health & Human Services

announced via Twitter this week that the county’s number of confirmed cases of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus, had risen to 42.

In collaboration with the Office of Emergency Management, the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office distributed free bottles of disinfectant solution to Fort Bend County resi-

dents at the Gus George Law Enforcement Center at 1521 Eugene Heimann Circle in Richmond.

“We see what this virus is doing to other parts of the country and it’s crucial we try to stay ahead of it,” Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said in a news release last week. “...We will get through this

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PAGE 2 • Wednesday, March 25, 2020

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The COVID-19 pandemic has brought much of the Houston area, along with the country and the world, to a standstill. But business must continue, even with schools closed and many people working remotely from home.

As of publication, the businesses featured on this page were still open and ready to serve the community.

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By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Over the next several weeks, a partnership between the YMCA and Houston Food Bank will provide meals to the residents of Fort Bend County’s Precinct 4.

After an order from Fort Bend County Judge KP George last week called for restaurant restrictions and bar closures aimed to promote social distancing, the YMCA will be using the Four Corners parking lot at 15700 Old Richmond Rd. in Sugar Land. Volunteers will facilitate the Houston Food Bank’s distribution

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of meals to families in the area amidst the COVID-19 concerns in Fort Bend County for the duration of the initial closures, which run through at least the end of March.

The first food distribution session took place last Wednesday. There will be two more time slots available for families to come pick up food. They can come on March 25 and April 1 from 10 a.m. – noon.

“Keeping the community’s health and safety in mind, we are happy to work with the YMCA to help distribute Houston Food Bank meals at Four Corners,” Precinct 4 Commissioner Ken DeMerchant said in a news release.

OakBend center hiring temps as on-site screeners

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

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OakBend Medical Center in Richmond is looking for nursing students and displaced service industry employees for temporary work as medical screeners at the hospital’s two Richmond campuses at 1705 Jackson St. and 22003 Southwest Fwy. The medical screener would test individuals arriving at the facility for potential symptoms of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus. OakBend is among multiple health institutions in Fort Bend to implement modified visitor and screening policies in wake of the pandemic.

Fort Bend County officials have reported 42 COVID-19 cases in the county. Several more have been reported in the Greater Houston region as its testing capacity begins to increase.

To apply, visit oakbendmedcenter.org/career/jobdetails. php?vacancyid=2947 (Williams Way location) or oakbendmedcenter.org/career/jobdetails. php?vacancyid=2946 (Jackson Street location). For more information on OakBend Medical Center, visit oakbendmedicalcenter.org.

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Wednesday, March 25, 2020 • PAGE

3

Community compassion remains in ample supply amid crisis You would be hardpressed to find much good news in the world right now. Even before the coronavirus began infiltrating the area about three weeks ago, we were treated to the political barbs and jabs that get tossed around during every election cycle, from local races all the way to presidential debates.

Even in our own community paper, we’ve been the bearer of rough news recently – which, while necessary, still breaks my heart to even have to report. As of publication, Fort Bend County officials had reported 42 cases of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus, with more cases likely as testing becomes more readily available in the region.

But amidst all of that, a couple of local entities found a way to remind us over the last week that even while the pandemic that’s gripping the globe has taken a hold on Fort Bend County, we often see the best of humanity reveal itself in a crisis.

And I’d like to bring you some rare positivity in the current COVID-19 world.

In today’s issue, you’ll see a few stories of our community banding together.

Landan Kuhlmann LEAD REPORTER

Beginning last Thursday, workers from Republic Country Club & BBQ at 11110 W. Airport Blvd. in Stafford have lined up outside the restaurant to serve meals to customers who drive up or order ahead from 11:30 a.m. until they run out. And beginning Monday morning, they were handing out free meals to all first responders until they ran out of food in anticipation of their closure – with uncertainty about when or if they might open again.

The restaurant workers did not have to give up their time and effort.

They could have simply sat in their homes and felt sorry for themselves and the situation – which nobody would have blamed them for doing. It’s a rough stretch for every business.

Yet here they were, embodying what makes the Fort Bend community, and so many around the

Houston region, a shining star. Right now, workers are giving up what could be an impromptu vacation – which we could all use – and instead using that time to provide meals for others.

Further, the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Office of Emergency Management, recently gave 8,000 free bottles of disinfectant solution to Fort Bend County residents at the Gus George Law Enforcement Center at 1521 Eugene Heimann Circle in Richmond over the course of four days, beginning Friday. Along with Sugar Land-based De Nora Water Technologies, the disinfectant was distributed to residents in 32-ounce bottles with a singular one-gallon refill container per household from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. daily prior to a stoppage order from County Judge KP George.

Yes, their job is to protect us. But agreeing to this partnership when De Nora approached them is above and beyond what law enforcement officers are typically called to do.

They could have skated by with the bare minimum, but chose to go the extra mile.

But then again, I don’t think we should

be surprised. From the Memorial Day floods to Hurricane Harvey and now COVID-19, one thing this region has always done is band together in a crisis. Because of that, I have such great pride in living here.

Say what you will about what business has become in some cases, catering to greed and forgetting where they came from, and law enforcement officers abusing

their power. But I think these acts show that true service and compassion still exist in the world, no matter what anyone thinks.

I honestly believe that a person’s true colors come out whenever danger presents itself. At the moment, I could not possibly care less about what motivated the restaurant manager to give away what they have remaining, or the FBCSO

to engage in that partnership. It’s inconsequential.

Why? Because in the end, this life is about people helping each other, and showing compassion.

The residents of this great community have gained some semblance of certainty in an uncertain situation.

Once again, we’re seeing the best of humanity reveal itself in a crisis.

That’s all that really counts.

TSTC suspends on-campus classes

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Texas State Technical College, which has a Fort Bend County campus at 26706 Southwest Fwy. in Rosenberg, announced that it transitioned to remote operations on Monday to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The move includes all students, faculty and staff.

A news release from TSTC said the school tentatively plans to return from remote work on April 13. Students taking face-to-face classes are currently scheduled return April 14, while online classes would continue on

tion.

Officials with Fort Bend County Health & Human Services announced last week that the county’s number of confirmed cases of the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus had risen to 42 as testing becomes more readily available in the Houston region.

“The health and safety of the TSTC community has always been our top priority,” the school said.

Shown here is TSTC's Fort Bend campus in Rosenberg. “This new phase is true to our guiding principles of (Photo from Facebook) keeping our campuses and communities safe while their original schedule.

However, those dates doing all we can to ensure could change based on the our students finish the curevolving COVID-19 situa- rent semester.”

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PAGE 4 • Wednesday, March 25, 2020

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@FtBendAthletics:

Area basketball players earn statewide accolades

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Multiple Fort Bend County basketball teams had landmark seasons in 2019-20, and several area athletes were recently honored for their contributions by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches.

Hightower senior Destini Lombard was the headliner in the area, garnering both all-region and all-state honors in Class 5A. Lombard, who is committed to LSU, averaged more than 14 points per game this season in helping the Hurricanes to a regional semifinal berth.

She is the area’s lone allstate selection.

Lombard, was one of 12 area players to be named all-region.

Another was Hightower teammate Morgan Strawder, a senior guard.

Hightower led the area with two players apiece on the girls and boys teams all-region teams, while Ridge Point also placed

Daylan Presley at left (Photo from Stafford MSD)

Bryce Griggs at right. (Photos by Landan Kuhlmann)

two athletes on the girls team. Bush placed one player on each the boys and girls squads, while Marshall, Travis and Stafford had one honoree apiece.

Hightower sophomore guard Bryce Griggs was the headliner for the area’s

Region III-5A boys selections. It was the second consecutive such honor for Griggs, who averaged 25 points per game in leading the Hurricanes – ranked 2nd in 5A by the TABC – to the most wins in school history (33) and their first state tournament in a nearly a decade.

Joining him on the 5A team was fellow Hurricane guard Christopher Harris along with Marshall sophomore guard

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Making the Region III6A boys team was Travis senior guard Justin Hill, who was a key cog in leading the Tigers to a District 20-6A title along with their most wins (31) since the 2015-16 season and a regional quarterfinal berth. It was also a banner season for Bush’s Danny McAdory, who joined Hill on the Region III-6A team after helping the Broncos to a 24-13 record and arearound playoff berth.

In Class 4A, Stafford junior Daylan Presley garnered all-Region IV honors after helping the Spartans to a 32-9 overall record, including a second consecutive District 25-4A title and their first state berth since 2009-10.

Ridge Point junior guard Raven Adams headlined the area’s Region III girls selections after serving as the trigger for the Lady Panthers and leading them to their second consecutive 20-6A title.

Fellow Lady Panther and leading scorer Aleighyah Fontenot (19.7 points per game) also made the team for Ridge Point, who earned a berth in the regional tournament for the first time in school history.

Bush leading scorer Arianna Sturdivant earned all-Region III honors for the Lady Broncos (20-14), who had their winningest campaign since 2015-16 and made it to the area round of the playoffs.

include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Those people can visit ReadyHarris.org and use the online screening tool, which will determine the need for a test and provide further instructions. Those without access to a computer or internet can call 832-9277575 to be screened.

As of Monday the number of COVID-19 cases

in Fort Bend County had risen to 42, according to county health officials.

“We want folks who are tested to have symptoms,” Hidalgo said. “If we test folks who are not symptomatic, we may get a false negative.”

Officials asked that people who want COVID-19 tests first contact their healthcare provider about testing.

Hidalgo said each county site has the capability to administer up to 250 tests per day.

More than 500 people with COVID-19 symptoms were tested over the weekend at the City of Houston’s free, drivethrough site, according to a news release from the city. As of Monday, the testing was open first responders and healthcare workers, people age 65

and older and those with chronic illnesses — including heart disease, asthma, chronic lung disease, cancer or HIV/AIDS – as well as transplant recipients, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women.

Anyone in those aforementioned groups who is experiencing symptoms may call the Houston Health Department’s COVID-19 call center at 832-393-4220 between 9 a.m.-7 p.m. to be screened.

Those who meet testing criteria will be given a unique identification code as well as instructions about where to go for testing.

The city and county testing sites will only accept people who have been screened. The city said those who show up without an identification code will not be tested and could risk infection.

“If you are a healthy person with mild symptoms and not seriously ill, please self-quarantine at home,” Dr. David Persse of the Houston Health Department said. “Most people infected with COVID-19 recover. It’s important we first focus our limited testing resources on the most vulnerable.”

Workers at the sites will not accept payment and only collect insurance information, according to the city, which also said “information obtained through testing, treatment or services will not be used against immigrants in their public charge evaluation.”

Dr. Uair Shah of Harris County Public Health said the goal is to have tests results available within two days after they are administered.

According to the World Health Organization, which earlier this month declared the outbreak a pandemic, there are more than 334,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases in 189 different countries, including more than 31,000 cases in the United States.

The disease has led to more than 14,600 deaths worldwide.

Follow Adam Zuvanich on Twitter @AZuvanich

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.

E E

Ob

itu a ry

E E

LARRY B. ROSS

APRIL 17TH, 1941

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

MISSOURI CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-261-8944 2019 Bright Meadows Dr. - Missouri City, TX 77489 www.mocitycoc.org Sunday morning services: 10:15 am (includes separate youth, bible hour and nursery services)

Sunday evening services: 5:00 pm Last Sunday 1:30 pm Bible Study (all ages): Sun 9:00 am & Wed 7:00 pm Iron Mens Bible Study 1st Monday 6:30 pm

STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507 402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 SUNDAY: Bible Study: 9:30 a.m.

Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Afternoon Worship 5:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY : Bible Study 7:00 p.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

E

Larry B. Ross, 78 of Sugar Land, Texas passed away on March 18, 2020. He was born April 17, 1941 to Homer Ivan “Buster” Ross and Ida Lou White Ross. Larry retired in 1991 from the City of Sugar Land after 25 years of dedicated service, where he was the 2nd Police Chief for the department. He then went on to work as a Deputy Constable for Fort Bend County for several years.

He was a member of the Sugar Land Lions Club for 25 years, where he served one term as President.

The family appreciates your thoughts and well-wishes but under the current corona virus restrictions, burial services will be held privately.

This step is to follow the guidance provided by authorities and to ensure the safety of everyone.

He was an avid Astros fan. He enjoyed hunting, collecting coins and playing poker with his poker buddies, One of his favorite things to do was dinner and domino night with his dear friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later time.

In addition to his parents, Larry is preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Ross.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Leaps and BoundsMother’s Day Out Program and Immanuel Evangelical Church in Needville, a program near and dear to this heart.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 53 years, Judy Lyons Ross; daughters, Kimberly Fredrickson and husband, Ike, and Kathy Polak and husband, Patrick; grandchildren, Reese & Ryan Fredrickson and Gracie & Addison Polak; sister, Gloria Hall and husband, Kenneth; along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Tributes and words of condolence may be left for the family at www. davisgreenlawnfh.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd., Rosenberg, Texas 77471.

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Wednesday, March 25, 2020 • PAGE

5

Republic Country Club & BBQ serves community before closing wrote on Facebook March 19. “My friend is loving his brisket and he loves the beans!”

For updates on Republic Country Club’s future, visit its website at republiccountryclub.com or follow the restaurant’s social media pages.

“My heart aches for the

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted a number of businesses in the area, with Fort Bend County Judge KP George restricting restaurants to takeout, drive-through and delivery services in an attempt to reduce crowds and slow the spread of the upperrespiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus.

Local barbecue hot spot Republic Country Club & BBQ is shutting its doors for at least the time being in light of the restrictions.

“This is a tough time for our staff, and they are tough folks, and good people, who love their jobs, and I'm incredibly sad they will be out of a job for at least a week, likely more,” read a message from the company that was shared on Twitter. “They are professionals. They are good

Cars lined up March 19 at Republic Country Club & BBQ as the Stafford restaurant served the customers via drive-through service. It closed this week. (Photo from Facebook)

people. They have families.

This hurts. A lot. So many people helped us get this far, and these folks worked their butts off to make the place special.”

The restaurant will be closed at least through the end of the county’s local disaster declaration, which George announced over the weekend has been extended until April 3.

On its way out Monday, Republic Country Club

handed out free meals to first responders until running out of food.

Leading up to the closure, customers showed their appreciation on social media while offering words of encouragement.

“Thinking of you and your team! We’ll get (through) this,” Jeff Gallemore wrote on Facebook March 18.

Beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, after the res-

taurant restrictions were put into place, Republic Country Club had to close its dining room and focus on to-go orders. Workers were outside the restaurant at 11110 W. Airport Blvd. to serve meals to residents who drove up or ordered ahead of time.

“I was there earlier... picked up my orders... chicken plate and brisket plate....my chicken was awesome,” Louis Zamora

GOT NEWS? Email your news or press release to EDITOR@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

many small businesses facing the same crushing odds we've faced during this crisis,” the Twitter post read.

“Families, children, everyone is hurt by this. It might seem silly to you if you don't own a business, but it's our life. We give it everything we have. It hurts.”

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COMMUNITY

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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.

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.

FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS We will not be meeting in April or May. As of now, we plan to have our kick-off meeting/luncheon in The Great Hall at Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. on Aug. 13 13 at 11 a.m. during which we will install our new officers. TRTA dues for March 2020-February 2021 are now due. Members and new retirees wishing to join, please mail a personal check made payable to FBHRE for $45 directly to treasurer Cathie Ritchie at 1107 Laurel Green Rd. in Missouri City. If you are a Diamond Plus member, then you would only send Cathie a check for $10. Contact Cathie with any questions at critchie43@comcast.net ONGOING 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 9:30 am every Sunday morning 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!

SIENNA CRAFT/SEWING GROUP Sienna Craft/Sewing group. Meets every Tuesday from 10-noon at Sawmill Clubhouse in Sienna

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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

Plantation. We sew, crochet, knit, needlepoint, etc. contact Livia Erich at 281-543-3524 or liviaerich@yahoo.com for additional information.

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, call 281-222-4888.

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 281-4993345.

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.

WHILE WE’RE WAITING SUPPORT GROUP For Bereaved Parents - grieving the loss of a child at any age. Meets the third Thursday of every month, 7 p.m., at the First Colony Church of Christ, 2140 First Colony Blvd., Sugar Land.

For more information, call 281-413-2484.

AMERICAN LEGION 271 MEETING We meet the first Thursday of every month at the Post Hall, 4520 Hwy. 36 in Rosenberg. A covered dish meal is served to members at 6:30 p.m. followed by meetings at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 281-341-9966.

AMERICAN LEGION 294 MEETING Meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Old Hickory Inn BBQ, 3334 FM 1092, just north of Highway 6 in Missouri City. For more information, please call 713-376-7295.

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ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Caregivers of patients with AlzheimerÕ s disease or other related dementias are invited to attend the first Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 400 Jackson St. in Richmond, across from the historic Fort Bend County Courthouse. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 713-314-1313 or 1-800-272-3900.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The Pregnancy Resource Medical Center has moved to 4411 Avenue N in Rosenberg across from Navarro Middle School. Volunteers are needed on a continual basis. For information on volunteering or supporting the PRMC in other ways, email info@prmcfortbend.org.

4-H, FOOD & NUTRITION Fort Bend 4-H is looking for input from the community on how it can better serve the public. To learn more about 4-H projects, join 4-H at 7 p.m. at the University Library (14010 University Blvd., Sugar Land), visit fortbend4h. eventbrite.com or call 281-342-3034.

STORY SPINNERS WRITING CLUB Hosted by the George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. 5:30-8 p.m. All levels welcome to write, share, learn and support.

Free and open to the public. The program meets on the third Thursday of every month. For more information, call 281-342-4455 or 281-633-4734.

ADOPT A SHELTER CAT Fort Bend Pets Alive is partnering with Half Price Books in Sugar Land to find homes for shelter cats and to promote literacy among young readers. School-aged children are invited to come read to a cat, receive an Ò I read to a catÓ bookmark and be eligible to adopt a cat for 50 perecent off. Held 1:30-4:30 p.m. the first Saturday of every month at 3203 Hwy 6 S, Sugar Land.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS The Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City presents a variety of programs every month. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2900 or 281-633-4734.

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THE STAR

PAGE 6 • Wednesday, March 25, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Fort Bend ISD launches online learning program With nearly 80,000 students stuck at home because of the COVID-19 outbreak around Fort Bend County, Fort Bend ISD announced that it has launched an online learning program to keep students engaged while school is out.

FBISD has suspended all “normal operations” until at least April 10 as the county attempts to mitigate the spread of the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus.

On March 20, the district unveiled FBISD At Home Learning, a webpage filled with free educational resources and ideas designed to help students in grades K-12 engage in learning on a consistent basis. The district said it hopes those tools will help create more structure in a child’s day as the district prepares

for a hopeful return to oncampus learning.

“We understand our students, and their parents, might be missing the structure of the school day. So, in the near term, we will do our part to help you have productive days at home,” FBISD Superintendent Charles Dupre said in a video posted to the district’s website. “And in the long term, we will provide the systems to keep our students learning at home for as long as they can’t assemble at school.”

As a part of the district’s planning, the district will

ask teachers to share specific tips on how to support children with informational videos on a variety of topics, including how to build and reinforce a daily schedule, how to get the most out of reading with your child and how to talk to younger students about the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19.

Dupre said the endeavor will be an extension of FBISD’s existing use of online resources, which have included many tools embedded in the Schoology learning management system and Microsoft Outlook 365.

“Our charge is to ensure that all families have access to quality instruction.

In the coming weeks, we are focusing on building structures that will prepare us to train and launch online learning with fidelity,” he said. “Online learning is much more than simply recording lessons and posting online worksheets."

"County Judge KP George has decided the operation is no longer essential and has limited it to only county officials and employees," Nehls said.

"I’m proud of the work we’ve done at FBCSO to distribute the disinfectant."

According to a news release from FBCSO, De Nora’s mobile machine produced up to 25,000 gallons of the disinfection solution – Sodium Hypochlorite – per day.

“I’ve always thought Fort Bend County was the tip of the spear, and I’m

proud that we’ve taken this step, because we’re proactive in Fort Bend County,” Nehls said during a March 19 news conference ahead of distribution.

The product, which can be used for cleaning various household surfaces, was distributed to residents in 32-ounce bottles with a singular one-gallon refill container per household.

“We want to make sure we do everything possible to mitigate the infection that could spread throughout our county,” Precinct

1 Commissioner Vincent Morales said.

The county distributed about 8,000 bottles to area residents prior to the stoppage according to Nehls “The next couple of weeks are going to be trying times, not just for the people of Fort Bend County, but across the state of Texas and the nation,” he said last week. “We have to make sure we take care of each other. We need to just breathe a little bit and take the safety precautions that have been given to each and every one of us.”

limits of the city.

The restriction will last until Benton removes it or the end of the city’s disaster declaration, which is scheduled to last through Tuesday, March 24. At that time, city council will hold

a meeting to determine whether to extend the declaration beyond the initial seven-day period, for up to an additional 30 days.

“The city of Rosenberg is taking extraordinary measures to

prevent the spread of this potentially devastating disease in our community,” the city said.

“Personal actions by individuals are important to keeping themselves, their families, coworkers and our community healthy.”

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Shown here is the 2019-20 Dulles High School academic decathlon team. During Spring Break, the Vikings placed first in the large-school division and second overall in the Texas Academic Decathlon competition in San Antonio. (Photo from Dulles Daecathlon Twitter)

Dulles academic decathlon team wins large-school division at state meet lon is a 10-event scholastic competition that tests students’ knowledge of a central theme in the areas of art, economics, literature, music, mathematics, social science and science.

Dulles’ nine-member team of Victoria Brewer, Chinaza Chinagozim, Abigail Diltz, Lana Haffar, Jeffrey Jiang, Johan John, Mi Mach, Kathryn Phung and Robert Yang won a total of 36 medals, and FBISD said each member

From Staff Reports

Dulles High School’s academic decathlon team placed second overall and first in the large-school division at a statewide Texas Academic Decathlon competition in San Antonio during Spring Break. The team won its fourth consecutive state championship, according to Fort Bend ISD. The academic decath-

was awarded $1,250 in scholarship money.

Jiang won the overall Scholastic event, while Diltz and John placed second and third, respectively, in the category.

Yang took second in the Honors category, while Haffar won a team-high eight medals and had a perfect score in the Essay event.

Dallas Highland Park was the medium-school winner as well as the overall champion.

FOOT FACTS

★ DISINFECTANT FROM PAGE 1

by Dr. Eric Tepper

together.”

Sugar Land-based De Nora Water Technologies, a disinfection systems manufacturer, set up a mobile distribution center at the facility in collaboration with FBCSO. They distributed the bottles from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. beginning last Friday.

However, Nehls tweeted Monday night that Monday was the last day for resident distribution by order of county officials.

BOARD CERTIFIED PODIATRIST, ACCPPS

HEEL PAIN IN CHILDREN Because bones are not fully developed until the age of 14, excess repetitive stress on the heel of the foot can cause a condition called “calcaneal apophysitis,” also known as Sever’s disease. This painful inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone is the most common cause of heel pain in children between eight and fourteen years of age, particularly in kids who play sports or are obese. Signs of the condition to watch for include limping, walking on the balls of the foot, and pain when the heel is squeezed. Sever’s disease can usually be diagnosed with an X-ray and medical examination; however, in some cases, additional imaging studies may be needed.

P.S. Sever’s disease is more common in boys.

Feet of all ages deserve to be pain-free. We recommend a professional evaluation if your feet or your child’s feet are experiencing pain and discomfort. A podiatrist’s diagnosis can be instrumental in the relief of symptoms and eventual recovery. For foot care for all members of your family, from juniors to seniors, call us at 281-980-3668 for an appointment at 3143 Hwy. 6 South.

★ ROSENBERG FROM PAGE 1 dents can take commercial buses through Rosenberg, but will not be allowed to get off anywhere within the corporate

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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, March 25, 2020 • PAGE

Magic touch of bioenergetics helps bodies tell their story It’s a test as old as time. We find a supposed ailment, then proceed to a trial and error of various medications before eventually finding the right one.

But what if you could take the guesswork out of the process? Dr. Ferryl McClain and her BioScan machine aim to do just that using a process fairly new to American medicine.

Operating out of Haeckerville Pharmacy at 9402 Highway 6 South, Suite 400 in Missouri City, McClain is the founder of BioEnergetic Works, LLC. A pharmacist for more than 30 years, her BioScan technology utilizes a blend of Eastern and Western medicine she says is largely ignored in American practices to help patients identify and cure potential health problems before they crop up physically.

“For years we’ve been using (bodily substances) to test things – now we can just look at the body’s energetic codes. Everything has energy, and I can see everything that’s going on in your body,” she said.

“I can see how every organ is functioning energetically and then find a solution to what’s going on.”

In short, McClain places a connector on a patient’s chest while they hold a brass rod. She then uses a probe to touch every acupuncture point in a person’s fingers and toes, feeding information into her computer. The test analyzes the data before producing a report.

“I know for certain whether something’s going to help you, hurt you or act as a placebo effect,” she said. “I find that we’re reaching a point where we can eliminate the guesswork in treating what’s wrong.”

She has personally utilized BioScan for 17 years part-time while she’s served as a pharmacist. Eventually, however, the pull to use it full-time to help people was too strong – driving her to begin the practice at Haeckerville two years ago.

Many times, she said, the

Dr. Ferryl McClain

practice is used primarily by acupuncturists, chiropractors and doctors – but not pharmacists.

That is, until she came along.

“Eventually, I kept seeing what this science did, and I decided I would dedicate my life to promoting it,” she said. “There’s a lot of good pharmacists dispensing drugs, but there’s nobody who does what I’m doing.”

Bioenergetics, she said, reveals physical and emotional stressors that can cause imbalances in organs, glands, and other body systems. Her reports, which can be printed out on site or emailed to patients, are color-coded.

Green means the organ is healthy, yellow means stressed, red is weakened while black means critical.

In many cases, McClain said the technology saves patients time and money by providing clear answers as to their issue and its potential solution. After the test, she then works with a patient’s medical doctor on how to best streamline their care.

“Some of the things we’re doing everyday are shutting down our organs, and we don’t even know it,” she said. “Everyone tries to find a solution, but you get much better if you simply take away the offending agent and still put something in that’s going to help you.”

She also believes the key to finding the cure for what ails someone lies in streamlining care and medication, which is where bioenergetics enters the fold. It has helped some residents, such

as a multiple sclerosis patient who wished to remain anonymous, do just that while saving him money on medicine and treatments. McClain also accepts Flex and Health Savings Accounts.

“This gives them yes or no answers. We’re living in a world right now where people are running in and wondering what works – this gives them a definitive answer, and I think people need that,” McClain said. “The more serious the condition is, you don’t have time to play around with various medicines. You don’t have to go through all of that.”

During a time when social distancing is encouraged to help slow the spread of coronavirus, McClain also encouraged residents to come out and get tests done now.

She believes this is the time to try getting your body to the next level, when people feel good and healthy.

“Don’t try to be in avoidance of it, get your body so elevated that even if you are exposed to it your body wouldn’t take it on. I think this science can actually help get people to those goals,” she said. “(This technology) gives you offense – right now we’re playing team defense, but I’m asking them to consider the bio-scan during this time so your body is so strong that you can handle it.”

While visiting her at Haeckerville, residents can also take some time to relax at and old-time soda shop and find many medical products on sale at the community pharmacy owned by Waylon Haecker. Amidst the coronavirus outbreak, Haeckerville is also compounding hand sanitizer for residents – one bottle per person, per day. They also offer delivery and curbside assistance for their products.

For more information about bioenergetics, residents can visit the website at bioeworks.com or give McClain a call at 281-915-0793.

They can also email her at info@ bioeworks.com or stop by Haeckerville Pharmacy in person. To schedule an appointment with her online, visit her website at www. bioeworks.com.

Preventing the spread of

COR NAVIRUS Houston Methodist is committed to keeping Houstonians safe during the coronavirus outbreak. While most people may only experience mild symptoms, it’s important to keep those who are more vulnerable safe. By following these tips, along with guidance from the CDC and public health officials, you can help slow the spread of COVID-19.

WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN. Proper hand hygiene can prevent the spread of viruses. Use an antibacterial soap, wash for 20 seconds and dry your hands thoroughly. If you don’t have soap, use hand sanitizer. Also, avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose and mouth.

AVOID CLOSE CONTACT AND CROWDS. Practice social distancing: Keep about six feet away from others as often as possible.

If you must venture out, try to go during non-peak hours.

SKIP HANDSHAKES AND HUGS. COVID-19 spreads primarily through person-to-person contact, via respiratory droplets formed when a sick person coughs or sneezes. Instead, consider waving or simply smiling and saying “hello.”

PRACTICE COUGH ETIQUETTE. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze, dispose of it properly and then wash or sanitize your hands.

Do not reuse your tissues.

DISINFECT DAILY. Keeping your home clean and disinfected will prevent the spread of coronavirus, and any other lurking germs. Remember surfaces like faucets, door knobs, refrigerator door handles and toilets.

SELF-QUARANTINE. When it comes to staying home, it’s better to be safe and stay put if you’ve traveled or come into contact with someone who has COVID-19 — even if you don’t have symptoms.

If you start to feel ill, use telemedicine or call ahead before seeing your doctor.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT YOU HAVE CORONAVIRUS: If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, you can speak to one of our Virtual Urgent Care providers in the MyMethodist app to help determine if testing is needed and advise you on where you should go. You can also call your doctor for medical advice.

7

THE STAR

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, March 25, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

earlier this month declared the outbreak a pandemic, there are more than 334,000 COVID-19 cases in 189 different countries, including more than 31,000 cases in the U.S. The disease has led to more than 14,600

★ RESTRICTIONS FROM PAGE 1 nerable residents safe and to minimize the impact on our healthcare system.”

According to the World Health Organization, which

deaths worldwide, with the elderly and those with underlying health conditions at the highest risk for serious complications.

To see the full order, visit the Fort Bend County Health & Human Services website.

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April 1, 2020

When you fill out the census, you help: Determine how many seats your state gets in Congress.

Support Texas. Based on the 2010 Census, Texas received $59B in federal funds annually, equivalent to $1,548 per person per year.

Shape your future.

START HERE. For the first time ever, you can fill out the Census online! www.SugarLandTX.gov/Census2020

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Create jobs, prepare for emergencies, and build schools, roads and hospitals.

Q: When will I receive my Census?

Frequently A: Asked Questions

By April 1, 2020, every household will receive an invitation to complete the Census online, by phone or by mail.

Q: What is the deadline to complete the Census?

A: You should complete your survey as soon as you receive your

invitation. Reminder letters will be sent to households that have not completed the survey. Census workers will visit households that have not responded starting in May 2020.