05-27-20 Edition of the Fort Bend Star

UIL to allow athletes, bands to work out - Page 8

ACHIEVE Fort Bend donated books to struggling readers from area schools last week. Read more about the effort inside today's edition on Page 4. (Contributed photo)

WEDNESDAY • MAY 27, 2020

Fort Bend / Southwest • Volume 44 • No. 92

Visit www.FortBendStar.com

George asks justices to extend eviction moratorium

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, thousands in Fort Bend County have faced financial crises. Now some may be in danger of being evicted from their homes.

However, the county's top elected official is Dalyn Hoegemeyer, AAMS trying to delay the proHoegemeyer, AAMS Financial Dalyn Advisor cess and help residents 4502 Riverstone Blvd. #904 Missouri City, TX. 77459get back on their feet.

Bus. 281-494-3737 Last Tuesday, May Financial Advisor

4502 Riverstone Blvd. #904 Missouri City, TX. 77459 Bus. 281-494-3737 Fax 888-849-8932 dalyn.hoegemeyer@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Fax 888-849-8932 dalyn.hoegemeyer@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Dalyn Hoegemeyer, AAMS Financial Advisor 4502 Riverstone Blvd. #904 Missouri City, TX. 77459 Bus. 281-494-3737 Fax 888-849-8932 dalyn.hoegemeyer@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Cordes

19, the Texas Supreme Court allowed the statewide eviction moratorium to expire

after temporarily putting eviction notices on hold during the coronavirus pandemic. According to a report from the Texas Tribune, eviction hearings could begin on May 19, while eviction orders could legally be served beginning this past Tuesday.

On the heels of the expiration, Fort Bend County Judge KP George sent a letter to the county’s justices of the peace “imploring” them to extend the local

eviction moratorium in all four precincts.

“The Texas Supreme Court’s order lifting the statewide eviction moratorium states that ‘eviction proceedings may resume,’ not that they ‘shall resume,’ ” George wrote in his letter. “This language provides discretion to local jurisdictions to take action to safely and mercifully administer their courts.”

A provision in the federal Coronavirus Aid,

Relief, Economic Security (CARES) Act allows a federal moratorium on evictions to continue through July 25 for properties that have federally backed mortgages. In his letter, George called for the county’s help in extending its own moratorium to match the federal provision.

Part of George’s reasoning is the large-scale unemployment that has SEE EXTENSION PAGE 7

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Commissioners court disagrees on CARES Act distributions

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $134 million to Fort Bend County to aid in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The distribution of those funds was recently approved by the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court, but not without dissention. During a regular meeting May 19, the court voted 3-2 to approve distribution of funds that will begin this week.

SEE CARES PAGE 8

A person has blood drawn during a blood drive hosted at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center in Sugar Land last week. Donations from the drive will go to the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, which has come upon a critical supply shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Contributed photo)

Sugar Land blood drive replenishes GCRBC amidst pandemic shortage

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center (GCRBC) has at times reached a critically low supply, leading to a strain in serving the Greater Houston region – including Fort Bend County.

The Fort Bend community recently attempted to do its part to help replenish the blood bank's stock.

By Landan Kuhlmann

Morales

Responsible Volunteering (iCERV).

“This exemplifies the ability for us to come together and positively impact the quality of life for those within our community,” said Adatia, the organization’s communications coordinator. “Particularly in times like these, we must place an even greater importance on putting our values into action in SEE DRIVE PAGE 7

County fair awards 50 scholarships to local students LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

DeMerchant

In order to address a shortage of blood in the region due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center in Sugar Land hosted a blood drive last Saturday and Sunday on behalf of the GCRBC. During the two-day drive, community members donated more than 48 units of blood that will be given to the GCRBC, according to Alim Adatia with the Ismaili Council for Southwestern United States and the Ismaili Community Engaged-in

The Fort Bend County Fair Association (FBCFA) announced its 2020 scholarship recipients last Wednesday.

Fifty students from area school districts such as Fort Bend ISD, Lamar Consolidated ISD and Needville ISD were awarded $4,000 each.

More than $200,000 in scholarships have been awarded to Fort Bend

County students since being involved,” Fort the program began in Bend County Fair President Sean Gutierrez said 1979.

This year’s recipi- in the news release.

For more information ents were selected out of more than 100 ap- on the fair's scholarship plications submitted iin program or the 2020 Fort January, according to a Bend County Fair, visit news release from the fortbendcountyfair.com FBCFA. Of the 50 stu- or call the fair office at dents selected, 33 live in 281-342-6171.

Scholarship recipients areas served by The Star.

"These students have from the area are listed been working hard for below by city. years to achieve these scholarships, putting in Sugar Land's Zoe Holden, right, and Macy Bean of Guy were time and dedication to two of 50 area students honored with a scholarship from the SEE SCHOLARSHIPS PAGE 2 making the grades and Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo. (Photo courtesy of FBCFA)

PRE-K | ELEMENTARY | HIGH SCHOOL | COLLEGE

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THE STAR

PAGE 2 • Wednesday, May 27, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Area YMCA locations reopening June 1 in limited capacities

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Amenities at several YMCA locations throughout the Greater Houston area, including two in Fort Bend County, will resume operations in a limited capacity on June 1.

Outdoor group exercise, lap swimming, summer day/teen camp and childcare for essential workers will reopen to the public at the Fort Bend Family YMCA, located at 4433 Cartwright Rd. in Missouri City. The T.W. Davis YMCA at 911 Thompson Rd. in Richmond will reopen for

summer day and teen

camps through Sept. 1.

All centers will comply with orders and safety recommendations set forth by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local officials, according to a news release from the YMCA of Greater Houston. During the initial reopening phase, safety measures to be implemented include, but are not limited to: • There should be 10-12 feet between outdoor exercise participants • Chemical checks conducted in aquatic environments every hour, sanitizing pool decks daily and regularly cleaning touchable surfaces

Fort Bend Junior Service League recruiting new members for 2020 From Staff Reports

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) has started its annual recruitment drive.

FBJSL is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential

of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Women who are at least 21 years old and “interested in commu-nity service, fellowship and philanthropy” can apply for membership on the league’s website at fbjsl.

org/join/how-to-becomea-member/.

FBJSL will also be hosting multiple virtual recruitment events over the summer in which potential members can learn more about the organization. More information is available at fbjsl.org or the organization’s Facebook page.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League is opening new member recruitment for the 20202021 league year. (Contributed photo)

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• Members will be required to register for classes online and checkin upon arrival • Members are encouraged to wear facemasks while checking in and waiting for their activity to begin, and a majority of staff will be required to wear facemasks • Lockers, showers and changing facilities will not be available, but toilet facilities will be available for use • Community water fountains and bottle fillers will be closed • Members should bring their own towel and yoga mat, and will be temperature checked upon entry

Rules for summer camps will include: • Restricted access to childcare/camp spaces to only staff and participants • Small group sizes with a significantly reduced capacity for the entire camp program and social distancing throughout the entire program • Separate rooms for each group of children with the same staff each day • Multiple temperature checks and health screenings each day • Scheduled handwashing and access to hand sanitizer as well as increased cleaning and disinfecting processes

Skeeters to host drive-thru dinner event at stadium From Staff Reports

The Sugar Land Skeeters will be hosting a drive-thru dinner pick-up from 4-7 p.m.

Friday, May 29 at Constellation Field.

People will be able to pick up a pre-purchased $65 meal, made to feed a family of six, by driving around the warning track at Constellation Field.

Those who have purchased meals will be prompted on how to get to the warning track and where to pick up the food once arriving at Constellation Field.

Included in each meal package is:

• Chili-rubbed smoked pork loin • Pepper thyme roasted chicken • Garlic mashed potatoes

• Corn • Baked beans • Potato dinner rolls with butter • Chocolate chip cookies

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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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, May 27, 2020 • PAGE

3

Strong and courageous, that’s us in Fort Bend County and beyond We just observed Memorial Day and the Fourth of July is right around the corner. These two patriotic holidays have consistently brought us together as a nation, and this time it is more important than ever. We have been hurting and just recently began to slowly heal in relation to COVID-19’s hard hit.

COVID-19’s exposure has turned out to be a great reveal. Some say we now also have a political virus in the form of division and dysfunction.

Let’s not go there in Fort Bend County.

Our quiet Memorial Day observance in neighborhoods throughout Sugar Land, Stafford, Meadows Place and Missouri City,

Elsa Maxey

among the other Fort Bend communities, showed a display of U.S. flags confirming our unity and support. For many of us the flag placement started during the essential services and activities of the stay-at-home period, which for Texas included the addition of in-person religious services, not in the federal guidelines.

I have come to appreciate the Sugar Land way so much more these days because it is part of the unspoken way we do things in Texas. We are rooted in a history of independence, which is about independent thinking with corresponding action. One size does not fit all. We know Texas has been part of Spain, Mexico, maybe France, too, and the Republic of Texas, which may be what has helped us keep our eye on the bottom line – the underlying ultimate outcome. We’re in the U.S.!

On the personal front, my family came here in 1755 before Texas existed, and we have been part of the evolution that

has led us to this present day akin to a profit-andloss scenario. And today, we are at a precipice, but we will not fall, not even to our knees. We are faced with challenges, to say the least, with a focus on a cure to what ails us – the new strain of coronavirus, the current state of our economy and our altered way of life – for now or forever. No, it’s not the new normal, which is a lazy cliché as a reputable magazine calls it.

If the current state is new, can it be considered normal? The term “new normal” is an oxymoron in my book.

The fact there are brilliant minds at work is promising. Some came up with the CARES (Coro-

navirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, which allotted $134.3 million in federal funds to Fort Bend County. Last week the county commissioners court approved a spending budget for those funds. We also hear talk with pros and cons about the possibility of doing away with a payroll tax for employees, too, through the end of the year, which would mean larger take-home pay.

Employers are already seeing this relief.

But we don’t want the cure to be worse than the disease, as the saying goes. I trust that we also don’t want security at the expense of our individual rights and a way of life we have come to enjoy.

Texas has it right. We are back out with the gradual reopening of businesses, mindful of social distancing and mask wearing.

Americans should wear masks in public when they’re not able to socially distance, said White House task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx, donning another great scarf last Sunday during a nationally broadcast TV interview. Birx also said being outside helps, noting that the sun can help in killing the virus.

Take notice: Together we are strong and we are most courageous when we are united. So, next on our to-do list is watching out for scammers using COVID-19 messages to rip off people.

County creates COVID-19 strike team In light of the COVID-19 outbreak

By Landan Kuhlmann

and the cancellation of several community gatherings, please check with each organization for updated information about the status of their events.

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend County has formed a "strike team" to help conduct concentrated testing for COVID-19 at hot spots around the area.

During a press conference last Wednesday, the county said the task force will provide testing at 15 long-term care facilities and nursing homes in Fort Bend.

"Testing has always been our number one priority in Fort Bend County, and we want to test our most vulnerable," County Judge KP George said.

"We will do everything possible to make sure that is all accomplished."

According to officials, a

Dr. Jacquelyn Minter, director of Fort Bend County Health & Human Services, speaks to reporters about COVID-19 during a March press conference. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

★ SCHOLARSHIPS FROM PAGE 1

recent mandate from Gov. Greg Abbott provides two weeks for the strike team to complete all of its testing for staff and residents at the nursing homes.

"We were already making in-roads into those nursing homes and their

Carson Yanta

Bryce Vanek

Jonathan Yuan

Missouri City Kassidi Davis Aaryanna Jones Kaylee McClanahan Richmond Alyssa Fisher Cynthia Flores Abigail Garza Eutimio Garza Jordan Holub Layton Meyer Emmanuel Ogu Clayton Padgett Lauren Sulak Jillian Voehl Rosenberg Elizabeth Anders Victoria Nelson Karleigh Schlict Megan Vacek Sugar Land Daniela Arena Victoria Bernard Naomi Boyer Mackenzie Flowe Ryan Hartfiel Zoë Holden Haley Knecht Morgan McVey Makenzie Norden Sydney Plemons

facilities," said Dr. Jacquelyn Minter, director of Fort Bend County Health & Human Services. "We have already started making recommendations and giving them education so that they have the support they need."

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

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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

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Many adults suffer from an overactive bladder. This condition is characterized by the sudden urge to urinate. This may lead to an involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). This is a problem is caused by the inability of the bladder to store urine properly. Overactive bladder can disrupt a normal lifestyle and cause embarrassment.

Classic symptoms include waking up more than once in the middle of the night to urinate, frequently urinating as much as eight times a day, and experiencing difficulty holding urine in the bladder when the urge to urinate occurs. Urge incontinence is a term used to describe the symptom of loss of bladder function immediately following a sudden, urgent need to urinate. People who suffer from certain conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or stroke are more likely to experience an overactive bladder.

Oxybutynin (Ditropan), tolterodine (Detrol), and fesoterodine (Toviaz) are anticholinergic medications that help treat overactive bladder. In severe cases of overactive bladder, onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) has been be injected into the bladder to help the bladder store urine by causing the muscle to remain in a paralyzed state for a short period of time.

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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.

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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

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THE STAR

PAGE 4 • Wednesday, May 27, 2020

ACHIEVE Fort Bend donates 10,000 books to area students

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

ACHIEVE Fort Bend County said it recently delivered 10,000 books to administrators for Fort Bend ISD and Stafford MSD to distribute to students during the summer months.

Every year, ACHIEVE gives 10 books each provided by local business and community leaders to 1,000 low-income, first-graders students who are struggling to read. The goal of the program is to support growth in reading during the summer break and prevent students from falling behind as they move to the next grade level.

In previous years, Fort Bend County constables picked up the books and delivered them to the students. However, with school campuses closed because of COVID-19 pandemic, district administrators and staff will now deliver them to the identified students within their districts.

“Thank you to all of the

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Ford, Prestage to host drive for food, PPE

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Blue Ridge Elementary's Sonya Evans-Williams and Stephanie Glaze display books. (Contributed photo)

district leaders for helping ACHIEVE Fort Bend County ensure summer reading material for the students that need it, especially during these uncertain times,” James Patterson, the board chairman

for ACHIEVE, said in a news release.

For more information on ACHIEVE Fort Bend County, email achievefbc@yahoo.com or visit the organization’s Facebook page.

This weekend, Missouri City Mayor Yolanda Ford and Fort Bend County Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage will host a food and personal protective equipment (PPE) distribution drive aimed at helping families who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ford and Prestage will be giving out food and PPE at the drive-through event in front of Missouri City Hall at 1522 Texas Pkwy. on Saturday, May 30 from 10:30 a.m. until

Ford

supplies are gone.

PPE for the drive has been donated by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and the Mary Susan Moore Medical Society through

Prestage

Prestage’s office. The Houston Food Bank will provide the food.

For more details on the event, call 281-403-8500 or visit Missouri City’s website at missouricitytx.gov.

County kicks off initiative aimed at helping area families

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend County recently began an “Adopt a Family” initiative in order to help families that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. County residents can help those families get back on their feet.

Among ways residents can help are: · Provide a monetary Fort Bend County constables pick up books to donate from ACHIEVE board chairman James Patterson (center in blue shirt). (Contributed photo)

gift card to stores such as Walmart, Target, H-E-B or Kroger. · Using a list provided, shop for the specific needs of their “adopted family.” · Assist with paying a

utility bill, rent, mortgage or medications (payments are made directly to vendors). · Make a monetary donation to Fort Bend County’s Social Services department.

If residents are interested in learning more about how they can adopt a family, they can call the Adopt-a-Family hotline at 281-344-6116 or e-mail socialservicesinbox@fortbendcountytx.gov.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY FOR MAILBOX DELIVERY

FBCA selects 2020-21 cheer squad virtually From Staff Reports

Fort Bend Christian Academy recently utilized technology to remotely select members of its 2020-21 cheerleading squad.

Due to circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic,

athletic director Kelly Carroll and cheer coach Angie Civalero created a virtual tryout process. Cheer candidates learned the required material, uploaded their tryout videos and received scores from an outside panel.

Seniors Kiley Blanchard and Mandy

Kamp were selected as team captains.

Team members include senior McKenzie Brown; juniors Brooke Coleman, Elizabeth Ingraham and Nina Singleton; sophomores Nicole Gikonyo and Lexi Rivers; and freshmen Kristy Volmert and Abby Bray.

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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

Wednesday, May 27, 2020 • PAGE

5

Texas expands COVID-19 NEVER MISS testing in state prisons A STORY

By Landan Kuhlmann

LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) announced earlier this month that it has begun an expanded COVID-19 testing program for its inmates.

According to a news release from TDCJ, it is deploying tens of thousands of COVID-19 oral fluid tests manufac-

tured by Curative, Inc. Approved by the FDA in April, the tests are designed to be self-administered.

The tests have been administered at TDCJ prison units across the state. According to TDCJ data, there are 29 inmates in medical isolation at Richmond’s Jester I prison unit recovering from COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus strain.

Overall, more than 2,500 offenders and 790 TDCJ contract staff and employees have tested

C LASS I F I E D

positive for COVID-19.

Since beginning testing, the agency's strike teams throughout the state have conducted 45,818 tests using oral swabs on inmates and 12,217 on employees.

“Increasing the information available to our medical professionals will help us to further enhance the agency’s ability of stop the spread of COVID-19,” TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier said in a news release.

A DS

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS ON-CALL PUMP AND MOTOR REPAIRS The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for performing all work required for the following project in the City: BID NO. 2020-19: ON-CALL PUMP AND MOTOR REPAIRS BIDDER’S NAME, ADDRESS, AND DUE DATE

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS BRAZOS RIVER PARK ROAD EXTENSION 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: Brazos River Park Road Extension CIP PROJECT NUMBER: PK1606 LOCATION OF WORK: Sugar Land, TX Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUsa.com or documents may be purchased for $50 in the office of the Project Engineer: Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. 11700 Katy Freeway, Suite 800, Houston, TX 77079 Sealed bids one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 10, 2020 via virtual meeting. Details for attending the pre-bid meeting will be posted on CivCast www.

CivCastUSA.com

Marketing Manager for Nalco Company LLC at its facility in Sugar Land, TX. Responsible for one or more product lines with complexity in scope &/or size. Requires a MBA and two (2) years of post-bachelor’s progressive experience in all of the following: Business to business marketing experience working with a marketing team and salesforce to reach customers in the refining market segment; Managing business segment P&L and implementing margin enhancement activities for a business greater than $35M in sales; Developing and supporting strategic marketing plans for a business to business product and service program, developing customer value propositions and creating associated sales materials; Leading global cross-functional teams to manage an innovation portfolio > $50M in the Refining market space utilizing a Phase Gate Management process; Developing competitive analyses, assessing competitors’ value propositions and identifying innovation opportunities; Performing market segmentation, targeting and positioning activities; Using Power BI dashboards to drive actionable insights. 10-15% Global Travel Required. Apply at https://jobs.ecolab.com/, Req. R00111145. Must have legal authority to work in the US. EOE. Senior Lead IT Developer for Nalco Company LLC at its facility in Sugar Land, TX. Provides support for business users of the company’s Vistex solution. Requires a Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Computer Science and five (5) post-bachelor’s progressive experience in all of the following: Working in an IT environment, providing applications support with SAP SD and/or Finance modules and Vitex in the areas of Rebates, Pricing, Billbacks, Sellouts, Distributor Finance; SAP Modules – VISTEX, ATTP, OER, MM, SD, FICO, HR, IS-OIL, Retail, HR, PTP, OTC, and Master Data Management. Understands relationship between various SAP modules (VISTEX, FICO, SD, MM) and of overall business process, including order-to-cash and purchase-to-pay and make to order; Hands-on ABAP development background in WRICEF developments, DDIC, Reports, Interfaces, Conversions, ABAP objects, ALV, SAP Scripts, Smart Forms, Adobe Forms, Enhancement Framework –User exits, BADI, Enhancements, VOFM routines, Dialog programming, BAPI, Workflow, WebDynpro with ABAP; VIZI reports using CDS views and FIORI functionality; Providing production support with ticket management; Worked with 3rd party support providers / AMS, relational databases, modeling and schema design, integration with legacy systems and middleware; Moves between high level business process design translating complex requirements into business solutions. In lieu of a Bachelor’s degree and five (5) years of experience, the employer will accept seven (7) years of experience in the skills listed above. 10% - 15% Travel Required. Apply at https://jobs.ecolab.com/, Req. R00111211. Must have legal authority to work in the US. EOE.

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Questions regarding this bid must be received on or before 5:00 p.m., Monday, June 15, 2020. Please contact Connie Curtis, P.E., at Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc., at (281) 920-6578 or connie.curtis@kimley-horn.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

HIRELOCAL LEGALS Notice of Public Sale Notice is hereby given that a closed bid public auction will be held at CAJUN SELF STORAGE LLC 2935 FM 521 FRESNO, TX 77545 Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, on Saturday, July 11th at 8:00 AM, Cajun Self Storage LLC will hold a public auction to satisfy the lien on the property stored at the address above in the units listed. Tenants’ notated the inventories listed at the time of rental. Landlord makes no representation or warranties that the units contain said inventories. *Roland Saldana- Unit C-74 (household goods) *David Garcia- Unit F-2 (tools, household goods) *Kimberly Smith- Unit A-154 (boxes) *Emmanuel Ajayi- Units A-159 & B-71 (misc items, boxes) *Kevin Robinson- Unit D-57 (TV’s, gym equipment, Household items) All units must be paid for at the time of sale. No checks accepted. No one under the age of 18 is allowed to attend the sale. Each person attending must sign in and agree to follow all Rules and Regulations of the sale. The landlord reserves the right to bid at the sale. All purchased goods are sold “as is” and must be removed by 5:00 PM on the day following the sale. Buyers must provide a current, original or a photocopy of their original resale permit at time of sale in lieu of sales tax. This sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between landlord and obligated party.

Please publish in the legal section on the following dates: 5-26-20 thru 6-2-20 And 6-3-20 thru 6-9-20 Lynn McMahon 281-431-2819

FOR SALE Medical diagnostic corp. located in Stafford, TX closing after 43 years.

EVERYTHING MUST GO. Call 281-313-1200 to discuss or make appointment.

Lab equipment- freeze dryer, microplate reader, pipettes, autoclave, etc.

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Other- Refrigerators, -80 C freezer, other freezers, Entire Cold Room, Fume Hood “Restaurant grade” refrigerator shelving, other shelving Office furniture, kitchenette, file cabinets, desks, chairs, etc.

Shipping supplies, boxes, office supplies, etc.

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THE STAR

PAGE 6 • Wednesday, May 27, 2020

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

A leading Jewish-American is speaking out.

He sees a war against Christians in the courts and media.

Their goal: to destroy Christianity in America “Dark Agenda: The War to Destroy Christian America,” is David Horowitz’s extraordinary look into the left’s calculated efforts to create a godless, heathen American society.

Horowitz argues that even Jews — and anyone who believes in God — will be in danger if Christians are not protected.

Horowitz is a New York Times bestselling author and leading conservative thinker.

Horowitz argues that Judeo-Christian values are at the very root of America’s democracy and success.

Kill off such values and all of our freedoms could perish. Everybody could be in danger.

In “Dark Agenda,” Horowitz reveals: The real agenda of the “New Atheism” and how they used a war on radical Islam after 9/11 to begin an attack on Christianity. (Chapter 1, Page 7) The shocking way Congress scrubbed every mention of God from The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. (Chapter 4, Page 37) Why Hollywood stars like Bill Maher, who belligerently states “religion must die in order for mankind to live,” are finding a huge following among the Democratic left and Millennials. (Chapter 1, Page 6) The real story of Obama’s relationship with Saul Alinsky, a man who openly said Lucifer was his role model. (Chapter 10, Page 128) The true facts about Donald Trump’s faith — and the real reason evangelical Christians and Catholics are rallying behind him. (Chapter 12, Page 98) The shocking and violent manifesto of Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger who even advocated using dynamite to promote “revolutionary solidarity.” (Chapter 7, Page 47) How Barack Obama has become the hero of the anti-God, anti-religious left. (Chapter 10, Page 75) The New Jersey middle school on trial for inexplicably trying to convert students to Islam. (Chapter 5, Page 36)

“Dark Agenda” brings vital insights into the war against Christianity and names the global radicals, leftist Democrats, and fat cats of Hollywood and Wall Street responsible for it.

Newsmax says “Horowitz is a clear and sensible American voice — one that is Jewish, that makes an impassioned plea warning of the grave danger to our freedoms.”

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“I’ve been reading David Horowitz since college. Unlike most of us, who get so caught up in the details we miss the point, David sees our political debates in their historical scope.

He knows where we’re heading, because he understands the forces driving us. He’s rarely wrong. Plus he’s a great writer. Read this disturbing but vital book.”

“Horowitz exposes the intolerance of many atheists toward those who believe in God. As a Jewish agnostic, I think it is imperative that disbelievers not demonize believers and that believers not demonize disbelievers. The search for ultimate truths is a never ending process that demands an open and respectful marketplace of ideas open to all.”

Mike Huckabee says: “One of the most intellectually compelling and rational defenses of Christianity’s role in America. A delightfully readable explanation of how Christian principles were the bedrock of the American Revolution, and how the anti-American left has targeted Christians because of that.”

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THE STAR

See us online www.FortBendStar.com

★ EXTENSION FROM PAGE 1

gripped not just Fort Bend County but Texans as a whole. According to data from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), more than 2.2 million Texans have filed for unemployment since Feb. 22.

The TWC also indi-

cated that as of May 9, nearly 47,000 claims for unemployment had been filed in Fort Bend County since March 1 – the fifthmost among any county in Texas.

“Those weeks without income of any kind are leaving many vulnerable Texans staring into a financial abyss,” George wrote in the letter. “The

people most likely to lose their jobs due to the pandemic are also the most likely to have lower incomes in a regular economic climate.”

Judge Joel C. Clouser, Justice of the Peace for Precinct 2, confirmed the justices received George’s letter last week and passed it along to county attorney Roy

Looking to spice up those walls?

Cordes’ office for advisement on how to proceed.

He did not disclose whether he supported or opposed the idea.

Cordes said Friday that he received notification of the letter, but had not had the opportunity to examine what stance the county justices might take in extending the moratorium.

★ DRIVE FROM PAGE 1

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service to the community at large.”

Those actions are much needed as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact Fort Bend County and the Houston area, said the GCRBC’s Kelleye Moran.

“We were recently down to a one-day blood supply (at the center) for the 26 counties and 170 hospitals in the region that we serve,” she said.

“Community drives like the one in Sugar Land happening all over are extremely critical to replenishing the supply.”

Among the biggest reasons for the sudden shortage, according to Moran, is that more elective procedures are taking place as the state begins to reopen. In response to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order allowing for the resumption of medical

“We want to make sure we do everything legally,” Clouser said Friday.

The county recently set aside $19.5 million of CARES Act allocations to help with rental assistance. But George said it’s going to take more than that to make a dent and help the people of Fort Bend County get

back on their feet.

“In Fort Bend County, we are striving to educate landlords and tenants, provide rental and basic needs assistance, and pass local protections where we can,” George wrote to the justices.

“But this patchwork of relief will be incomplete without your support.”

procedures not related to COVID-19, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and others reopened services such as diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, procedural and surgical schedules on May 1.

Those services had previously been restricted due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus. Moran said the GCRBC had a recent week when a hospital, for one patient, needed almost 30 units of blood.

Moran said GCRBC needs to collect anywhere from 800-1,000 donations of blood per day in order to keep up with the region’s demand on an ongoing basis, and that the center is doing its best to continue serving the Greater Houston community.

“The reason the supply has diminished and become disrupted by

COVID-19 is because… hospitals are requesting more blood,” she said.

“As more people are on the road or traveling for the holidays, we’re seeing an increased amount of demand for blood. But our supply is critically low.”

According to Brookhaven National Laboratory, one pint of donated blood can save up to three lives. So Adatia said the blood donated last weekend could help the GCRBC save up to 144 lives.

“My parents have always taught me to give back and to do anything I can to help in any way possible,” iCERV volunteer Arsalan Aslam said.

“This … blood drive made me realize that in times like these, even when we’re limited in what we can do, it is very important that we come together in whatever way possible to support one another.”

Copies of this publication can be found at fortbendstar.com under "Digital Issue"

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Getting your annual mammogram is still important.

During the coronavirus pandemic, we are:

Screening all patients when scheduling appointments and upon arrival.

Houston Methodist can see you safely.

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Getting your annual mammogram is one of the most important steps you can take to stay healthy. That’s why our Breast Care Centers are taking every necessary precaution during the coronavirus pandemic to keep you and our staff members safe.

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Wearing masks and other personal protective equipment while providing patient care.

Implementing additional sanitation processes to disinfect all equipment and surfaces.

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Redesigning waiting rooms and check-in procedures to ensure social distancing.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 281.436.9513 to schedule your mammogram today.

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THE STAR

PAGE 8 • Wednesday, May 27, 2020

UIL allowing athletes, bands to begin summer programs June 8

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Since the middle of March, athletes and members of marching bands from high schools around Fort Bend County have been unable to practice their craft together.

In less than two weeks, the long layoff will be no more.

Last Friday, the University Interscholastic League announced that sports strength and conditioning camps, along with march-

ing band practices, can resume June 8 with several safety measures in place aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19, the upper-respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus strain.

“We are cautiously optimistic about beginning summer strength and conditioning programs and marching band practices that safely allow students to get back to working with their coaches and directors,” UIL executive director Charles Breithaupt said in a news release.

Among requirements are

that students and staff must self-screen for symptoms prior to arriving on campus.

Schools must have hand sanitizer or handwashing stations ready. For strength and conditioning camps, schools will be required to have one staff member per 20 students to monitor and enforce social distancing.

Guidelines for strength and conditioning camps are at uiltexas.org/athletics/covid-19-information.

Marching band information can be found at uiltexas. org/music/covid-19-information.

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★ CARES FROM PAGE 1 As per recommendations from a roughly 30-member advisory representing cities, school districts and special purpose districts – under the direction of two county commissioners – Fort Bend County Health and Human Services will receive $20 million to help with testing, tracking and treatment of COVID-19 as well as staffing shortages.

Meanwhile, about $19.5 million will go toward rental assistance from June to November, and $22 million will go into a small business grant to help business owners get back on their feet. The remaining $72.5 million will be distributed to the county’s Office of Emergency Management facilities, personal protective equipment for residents and reimbursement to local city governments for COVID-19 related spending.

“We looked at trying to do a balanced and fair distribution,” said Precinct 4 Commissioner Ken DeMerchant, who voted in favor of the proposal.

The vote was split across party lines, with DeMerchant and fellow Democrats Grady Prestage and KP George voting in

favor of the proposal. Republican commissioners Andy Meyers (Precinct 3) and Vincent Morales (Precinct 1) opposed it in the form it passed.

“My vote was not against helping people or moving the money quickly into the hands of those who are in need, but it was the way it was handled. I seconded Commissioner Meyers’ proposal to keep the dialogue going,” said Morales, who helped oversee the initial advisory committee.

“It’s a workshop, and I was trying to create a dialogue so we could find some common ground. Obviously that’s not something they wanted to do.”

Meyers submitted a counterproposal that had about $61 million being poured into small businesses as the state begins to reopen under Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order.

Morales also said he found many redeeming qualities in the advisory committee’s recommendations, and didn’t necessarily back every prong of Meyers’ counter.

“There was some tweaking I thought could be done. More money should’ve been put in the business category to help people get back to work

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than the rental assistance.

There would have been some common ground found there,” Morales said. “I’m not saying we shouldn’t put money into those other areas – there is a real need. But the underlying basis of the CARES Act is to get businesses back up and running.”

DeMerchant argued that there would be no customers for businesses to serve without the peace of mind and safety that could come from increased testing and tracking ability as well as help with rent.

“If you don’t have the health piece, it doesn’t matter how much money you put into businesses. If I can’t pay my rent, I’m not going to the mall to go shopping.

If I can’t pay my electricity bills I’m not going to buy a new pair of shoes,” he said.

“What good is it to have the store open if nobody’s going to go?”

DeMerchant said the county hopes to begin the appropriate distribution of funds later this week.

“It’s about how we can get through this pandemic and help the residents of Fort Bend County the best way,” he said. “… That’s why I like that we were able to pass this fair and balance distribution of funds.”

Morales echoed the sentiment.

“I’m a team player, and we’ve got to move forward.

I’m hoping (the committee) will come back if there are unused money and reallocate where there’s need. I’m hoping there’s some flexibility so we can appropriate that money appropriately,” he said. “We’re all working toward the same goal. It’s just a time we need to come together and be undivided.”

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 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 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 ALBION HURRICANES FC AHFC has multiple campuses in and around Houston, including Sugar Land. The club invites all interested players from ages of 7-18 to contact the campus director about team placement.

Interested players should pre-register before coming out. Visit albionhurricanes.org/afhcstaff for contact information.

ONGOING ST. CATHERINE OF SIENNA FOOD DRIVE A community food drive benefiting East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry is being sponsored

by St. Catherine of Sienna Episcopal Church, 4747 Sienna Pkwy., through May 31. Boxes will be at the front door of the church to collect needed food items. Monetary tax deductible donations can be made out to East Ft. Bend Human Needs Ministry (EFBHNM) and placed inside the mail slot. For additional information, please contact melinda@siennachurch.org.

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HELP LOCAL PET OWNERS IN NEED

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 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 281-499-3345.

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

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.

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. JohnÕ 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.

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.

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.

RAMIRO RODRIGUEZ • AUTO • HOME INSURANCE • BUSINESS An Independent Agency

Houston Humane Society Pet Food Pantry

Serving families needing assistance & Keeping Pets in homes forever. www.HoustonHumane.org

Donate online!

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

Working For You – NOT The Insurance Company.

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

281-240-8701

EXPERIENCE COUNTS! 27+ YEARS SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY

Call us today!

281.243.2300 •

One Sugar Creek Center Blvd.

Suite 300, Sugar Land, TX

www.KenWoodPC.com